EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 4/30/2012 1:04:01 AM

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Men News

*****************************************************
  ARGENTINA   


Stats Leaders - LigaA

Points Per Game
 Joe SMITH
  La Union
  (193-G-77)
  Avg: 17.3
 1. Smith, La Union17.3 
 2. Gutierrez, Obras16.6 
 3. Villegas, Sionista16.6 
 4. McHopson, Quilm.16.3 
 5. OBannon, Boca Jrs16.1 
 6. DeGroat, Olimpico.15.8 
 7. Martinez, San M.15.6 
 8. Pittman, Libertad.15.4 
 9. Meyinsse, Wuber-.15.3 
 10. Quinteros, Regat.15.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jack Michael MARTINEZ
  San M.
  (203-F/C-81)
  Avg: 12.4
 1. Martinez, San M.12.4 
 2. Battle, Libertad S.9.9 
 3. Davis, GECR I.9.5 
 4. Sandes, Sionista9.1 
 5. Lloreda, Olimpico.8.8 
 6. Gutierrez, Obras8.3 
 7. Williams, Quimsa7.6 
 8. DeGroat, Olimpico.7.5 
 9. Truscott, Quilm.7.3 
 10. Matthews, Quilm.7.1 
Assists Per Game
 Facundo CAMPAZZO
  Penarol
  (179-PG-91)
  Avg: 6.1
 1. Campazzo, Penarol6.1 
 2. Stanic, Boca Jrs5.5 
 3. Sanchez, Wuber-.5.5 
 4. Cequeira, Sionista4.8 
 5. Martinez, Regat.4.7 
 6. Laprovittola, Lanus3.8 
 7. Sucatzky, Atenas3.7 
 8. Victoriano, San M.3.7 
 9. Ciorciari, GECR I.3.4 
 10. Osimani, Obras3.4 
Steals Per Game
 Facundo CAMPAZZO
  Penarol
  (179-PG-91)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Campazzo, Penarol2.3 
 2. Lescano, Atenas2.3 
 3. Quinteros, Regat.1.8 
 4. Moldu, Olimpico LB1.7 
 5. McHopson, Quilm.1.6 
 6. Sanchez, Wuber-.1.5 
 7. Ciorciari, GECR I.1.5 
 8. Torre, Club 91.4 
 9. DeGroat, Olimpico.1.4 
 10. Stanic, Boca Jrs1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Robert BATTLE
  Libertad S.
  (204-C-81)
  Avg: 1.5
 1. Battle, Libertad S.1.5 
 2. Rollins, Sionista1.2 
 3. Clancy, Club 91.2 
 4. Meyinsse, Wuber-.1.2 
 5. Gutierrez, Obras1.1 
 6. Matthews, Quilm.1.0 
 7. Roe, Regatas C.1.0 
 8. Garces, Atenas0.9 
 9. Humphrey, Atenas0.9 
 10. Rollins, San M.0.9 



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

Standings

O Standings
 1. Petron Blaze 16-4 
 2. Philip.Patriots 14-5 
 3. Satria Muda 10-9 
 4. KL Dragons 10-9 
 5. Singapore S. 8-10 
 6. Bangkok C. 6-12 
 7. Saigon H. 6-12 
 8. Thailand S. 5-14 

Regular Season: Round 19

Apr. 29: Philip.Patriots - KL Dragons 93-97 OT
Apr. 28: Petron Blaze - Bangkok C. 91-77
Apr. 29: Singapore S. - Saigon H. 73-67
Apr. 28: Satria Muda - Thailand S. 73-63

Regular Season: Round 20

May. 5: KL Dragons - Thailand S.
May. 5: Philip.Patriots - Singapore S.
May. 6: Bangkok C. - Satria Muda
May. 6: Saigon H. - Petron Blaze
May. 2: Saigon H. - Bangkok C.


Round 19 of Regular Season - by Eurobasket News

Malaysian KL Dragons (10-9) survived in overtime against Filipino Philippine Patriots (14-5) by four points 97-93 on Sunday night. The game took place in Manila. But the guests from Kuala Lumpur were better at the end. Brian Williams fired a double-double by scoring 30 points and 18 rebounds for the winners. Philippine Patriots' coach tried various players' combinations and tested in total twelve players in this game, but that didn't help. KL Dragons have a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to third place, which they share with Satria Muda. Philippine Patriots at the other side keep the second position with five games lost. KL Dragons will face bottom-ranked Thailand Slammers (#8) in Bangkok in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Philippine Patriots will play at home against Singapore Slingers (#5).

The best stats of 19th round was 34 points (!!!) and 9 rebounds by Tiras Wade of KL Dragons.

Singapore S. - Saigon H. 73-67

The game between closely ranked teams ended with 6th ranked Vietnamese Saigon Heat's (6-12) road loss to fifth ranked Singapore Singapore Slingers (8-10) 67-73 on Sunday. The hosts trailed by 3 points at the halftime before their 42-33 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. The game was dominated by American players. Power forward Louis Graham (205-84) fired a double-double by scoring 29 points and 15 rebounds for the winners. Center Kyle Jeffers (207-85, college: Oregon St.) chipped in a double-double by scoring 20 points and 14 rebounds. Center Jonathan Jones (211-79, agency: TSS Management) produced a double-double by scoring 31 points and 12 rebounds and forward Jahmar Thorpe (198-84, college: Houston) added 16 points, 9 rebounds and 4 blocks respectively for lost side. Singapore Slingers maintains fifth place with 8-10 record. Saigon Heat lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the sixth position with 12 games lost. Singapore Slingers will face league's second-placed Philippine Patriots in Manila in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Saigon Heat will play at home against Bangkok Cobras (#6) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Singapore S.: L.Graham 29+15reb+1ast, K.Jeffers 20+14reb, D.Dulay 9+5reb+5ast, W.Long Wong 8+2reb, W.Jie Oh Desmond 4+1reb+1ast, V.Canta 2+2reb
Saigon H.: J.Jones 31+12reb+1ast, J.Thorpe 16+9reb+3ast, J.Smith 9+7reb, N.Javier 7+3reb+1ast, R.Sanz 4+3reb+4ast, T.Pham 0
gschID: 166977


Petron Blaze - Bangkok C. 91-77

No shocking result in a game in Manila where first ranked Filipino Petron Blaze (16-4) defeated 6th ranked Thailand Bangkok Cobras (6-12) 91-77 on Saturday. The hosts trailed by 4 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 6-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 91-77. Petron Blaze dominated down low during the game scoring 64 of its points in the paint compared to Bangkok Cobras' 44. Petron Blaze forced 22 Bangkok Cobras turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. American forward Nick Fazekas (211-85, college: Nevada) fired a double-double by scoring 25 points and 15 rebounds for the winners. Guard Chris Banchero (185, college: Seattle Pacific, agency: VVG Sports) chipped in 22 points and 4 assists. American power forward Gentry Lewis (206-81, college: Philander Smith) produced a double-double by scoring 20 points and 17 rebounds and Filipino guard Marvin Cruz (173-84) added 16 points and 6 assists respectively for lost side. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Petron Blaze have an impressive series of seven victories in a row. They maintain first place with 16-4 record. Bangkok Cobras lost third consecutive game. They keep the sixth position with 12 games lost. Petron Blaze will face Saigon Heat (#7) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Bangkok Cobras will play against Saigon Heat and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Petron Blaze: N.Fazekas 25+15reb+1ast, C.Banchero 22+3reb+4ast, L.Avenido 13+4reb+1ast, D.Crews 12+7reb+1ast, R.Yap 8+1reb+9ast, F.Baguion 5+1reb+5ast
Bangkok C.: G.Lewis 20+17reb+3ast, M.Cruz 16+2reb+6ast, J.Reyes 14+2ast, R.Kruatiwa 11+3reb+1ast, T.George 8+8reb+1ast, D.Apiromvilaichai 4+2reb+1ast
gschID: 166975


Philip.Patriots - KL Dragons 93-97 OT

Malaysian KL Dragons (10-9) survived in overtime against Filipino Philippine Patriots (14-5) by four points 97-93 on Sunday night. The game took place in Manila. But the guests from Kuala Lumpur were better at the end. The guests started the game with a very strong first quarter 26-16. But Philippine Patriots won third quarter 21-16. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening, at least not yet. The game turned upside-down in the last quarter, where Philippine Patriots used huge pressure winning it 23-17 getting a tie at the end of regular time. They lost eventually overtime period 10-14. They outrebounded Philippine Patriots 47-36 including 16 on the offensive glass. KL Dragons looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. American center Brian Williams (208-87, college: Tennessee, agency: VVG Sports) fired a double-double by scoring 30 points and 18 rebounds for the winners. His fellow American import forward Tiras Wade (200-81, college: La-Lafayette, agency: Interperformances) chipped in 34 points (!!!) and 9 rebounds. American swingman Anthony Johnson (197-79, college: La-Lafayette, agency: Interperformances) produced a double-double by scoring 26 points, 12 rebounds and 4 assists (made all of his eight free throws) and guard Al Vergara (173-79) added 19 points and 4 assists respectively for lost side. Four Philippine Patriots players scored in double figures. Philippine Patriots' coach tried various players' combinations and tested in total twelve players in this game, but that didn't help. KL Dragons have a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to third place, which they share with Satria Muda. Philippine Patriots at the other side keep the second position with five games lost. KL Dragons will face bottom-ranked Thailand Slammers (#8) in Bangkok in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Philippine Patriots will play at home against Singapore Slingers (#5).
Top scorers:
KL Dragons: T.Wade 34+9reb+3ast, B.Williams 30+18reb+3ast, P.Cabahug 17+1reb, Y.Seng John Ng 7+1reb, N.Belasco 5+8reb+1ast, B.Guganeswaran 3+2reb+7ast
Philip.Patriots: A.Johnson 26+12reb+4ast, A.Vergara 19+2reb+4ast, N.Miller 15+6reb, R.Wainwright 11+3reb, A.Ramos 6+2reb, F.Adriano 4+2reb
gschID: 166976


Satria Muda - Thailand S. 73-63

Very expected game in Jakarta where 8th ranked Thailand Thailand Slammers (5-14) were defeated by third ranked Indonesian Satria Muda (10-9) 73-63 on Saturday. The game without a history. Satria Muda led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. American forward Evan Brock (204-84, college: Alabama) fired a double-double by scoring 24 points, 10 rebounds and 4 blocks for the winners. Filipino-American point guard Stanley Pringle (184-87, college: Penn St.) chipped in 12 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists. Four Satria Muda players scored in double figures. American forward Calvin Williams (206-87, college: SE Missouri St.) produced a double-double by scoring 16 points and 13 rebounds and the other American import center Christopher Garnett (211-80, college: Indiana SE) added 23 points respectively for lost side. Satria Muda have a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain third place with 10-9 record having seven points less than leader Petron Blaze, which they share with KL Dragons. Thailand Slammers lost sixth consecutive game. They stay at the bottom position with 14 games lost. Satria Muda will face Bangkok Cobras (#6) on the road in the next round. Thailand Slammers will play against KL Dragons in Kuala Lumpur.
Top scorers:
Satria Muda: E.Brock 24+10reb+3ast, S.Pringle 12+8reb+7ast, M.Wuysang 11+1ast, J.Canada 10+2reb+3ast, A.Prihantono 9+1reb+2ast, S.Thomas 3+8reb+2ast
Thailand S.: C.Garnett 23+4reb+1ast, C.Williams 16+13reb, D.Apiromvilaichai 10+3reb+2ast, A.Lertmalaiporn 5+4reb, R.Leynes 5+5reb+3ast, S.Supachai 4+7reb+2ast
gschID: 166974



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

Standings - ABA

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

Regular Season: Round 6

BIG V

Apr. 28: Bulleen B. - Melbourne 89-74
Apr. 29: Diamond V.E. - Eltham W. 88-97
Apr. 28: Corio Bay - Hume City 86-63
Apr. 28: Waverley F. - Diamond V.E. 82-93
Apr. 29: Sherbrooke S. - Ringwood H. 65-64

Central ABL

Apr. 29: S.Adelaide P. - Forestville E. 94-83
Apr. 28: C.District L. - Woodville W. 89-101
Apr. 28: Norwood F. - S.Adelaide P. 81-85
Apr. 25: Forestville E. - W.Adelaide B. 78-79
Apr. 28: Eastern M. - South.Tigers 77-87
Apr. 28: N.Adelaide R. - Sturt S. 76-89
Apr. 29: W.Adelaide B. - C.District L. 71-49
Apr. 29: Sturt S. - South.Tigers 70-55
Apr. 29: Eastern M. - Norwood F. 53-64

SEABL

Apr. 29: Frankston B. - Hobart C. 98-107
Apr. 29: Geelong S. - Mt Gambier 96-79
Apr. 29: Dandenong - Sandringham S. 95-84
Apr. 28: Albury W.B. - Ballarat M. 94-90
Apr. 27: Brisbane S. - NW Tasmania 92-80
Apr. 28: Bendigo B. - Hobart C. 88-81
Apr. 28: Sandringham S. - Geelong S. 83-79
Apr. 28: Knox R. - Frankston B. 79-73
Apr. 28: Nunawading S. - Mt Gambier 76-67
Apr. 28: Canberra G. - NW Tasmania 72-84
Apr. 29: Kilsyth C. - Bendigo B. 67-96

WARATAH

Apr. 28: Cent.Coast C. - Colonial Hotel 87-59
Apr. 28: Newcastle H. - Sydney C. 76-75
Apr. 28: Manly Warr. - Hills H. 74-79
Apr. 28: Sutherland S. - Maitland M. 55-60
Apr. 28: Norths Bears - Illawarra H. 112-52
Apr. 28: Bankstown B. - Parramatta W. 100-84

Regular Season: Round 7

BIG V

May. 5: Ringwood H. - Bulleen B.
May. 5: Melbourne - Corio Bay
May. 6: Corio Bay - Waverley F.
May. 6: Eltham W. - Sherbrooke S.
May. 6: Diamond V.E. - Hume City

SEABL

May. 4: Mt Gambier - Knox R.
May. 5: Canberra G. - Frankston B.
May. 5: Dandenong - Brisbane S.
May. 5: Geelong S. - NW Tasmania
May. 5: Ballarat M. - Hobart C.
May. 5: Albury W.B. - Kilsyth C.
May. 6: Bendigo B. - Brisbane S.
May. 6: Knox R. - Albury W.B.
May. 6: Nunawading S. - NW Tasmania
May. 6: Sandringham S. - Hobart C.

WARATAH

May. 5: Bankstown B. - Sutherland S.
May. 5: Parramatta W. - Cent.Coast C.
May. 5: Colonial Hotel - Norths Bears
May. 5: Sydney C. - Hills H.
May. 5: Illawarra H. - Manly Warr.
May. 5: Maitland M. - Newcastle H.


Standings - SBL

SBL Standings
 1. Lakeside L. 9-0 
 2. Wanneroo W. 7-2 
 3. Perth R. 7-2 
 4. Cockburn C. 6-3 
 5. Mandurah M. 6-3 
 6. Perry Lakes H. 5-4 
 7. Stirling S. 5-5 
 8. Goldfield G. 4-5 
 9. Willetton T. 4-5 
 10. Geraldton B. 4-6 
 11. East Perth E. 3-7 
 12. Rockingham F. 2-8 
 13. Kalamunda E.S. 1-8 
 14. SW Slammers 1-8 

Regular Season: Round 7

Apr. 28: Perry Lakes H. - Kalamunda E.S. 96-94
Apr. 28: Perth R. - Geraldton B. 96-78
Apr. 27: Kalamunda E.S. - Stirling S. 87-107
Apr. 28: Goldfield G. - SW Slammers 80-75
Apr. 28: Mandurah M. - Cockburn C. 76-116
Apr. 27: Rockingham F. - Perry Lakes H. 130-111
Apr. 28: Wanneroo W. - East Perth E. 110-91
Apr. 29: Cockburn C. - Geraldton B. 107-91
Apr. 28: Stirling S. - Rockingham F. 105-98
Apr. 27: Lakeside L. - Willetton T. 104-97

Regular Season: Round 8

May. 5: Geraldton B. - Wanneroo W.
May. 5: Goldfield G. - Perth R.
May. 5: SW Slammers - Perry Lakes H.
May. 5: Mandurah M. - Lakeside L.
May. 5: East Perth E. - Rockingham F.
May. 5: Cockburn C. - Stirling S.
May. 5: Willetton T. - Kalamunda E.S.


SBL: Cougars end Magic run from Mandurah - by Eurobasket News

The Mandurah Magic ended their four game winning streak going down to the Cockburn Cougars by 40 points.

The Cougars triumphed 116-76 with the help of Wildcats development player Damien Scott (194-G-92) who starred with 32 points, five rebounds three assists.

The Wanneroo Wolves took down the East Perth Eagles 110-91.

Coming back from last weeks loss hungry the Wolves were led by Damian Matacz (205-C-79, college: N.Michigan) with 28 points, six rebounds and one assist.

In a country showdown between the Goldfields Giants and the South West Slammers the Giants took down the Slammers 80-75 despite incredible offensive pressure from Slammers Carlos White (202-F-80, college: Rhema Bible) with 37 points and ten rebounds.

The Stirling Senators grasped at their chance to make it in to a top eight position, taking down the Rockingham Flames 105-98.

The Senators triumphed in Jon Moons 200th SBL game putting on a strong shooting display in a close game.

The Perry Lakes Hawks defeated the Kalamunda Eastern Suns 96-93 for the Eastern Suns fifth consecutive loss of the season.

Hawks import Matthew Rosinski (188-G-87, college: Regis Univ.) was a dominant court presence with 29 points, nine rebounds and seven assists.

The Perth Redbacks triumphed 96-78 over Geraldton in the Buccs first game of their road double.
Courtesy of: SBL


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

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Stjepan STAZIC
  BC Vienna
  (199-G-78)
  Avg: 26.3
 1. Stazic, BC Vienna26.3 
 2. Drenovac, Arkadia23.0 
 3. Reed, Oberwart19.9 
 4. Shaw, Oberwart18.3 
 5. Shavies, Furstenf.18.1 
 6. Curry, Gmunden17.5 
 7. Matthews, BC Vi.17.2 
 8. Djuric, Gussing17.2 
 9. Fears, Kapfenberg17.2 
 10. Grum, UBSC G.17.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Joe WERNER
  Wels
  (201-C-84)
  Avg: 9.5
 1. Werner, Wels9.5 
 2. Gordon, Kapfenberg8.6 
 3. Oppland, Gmunden8.1 
 4. Reed, Oberwart7.8 
 5. Skurdauskas, Arkad.7.2 
 6. Ware, Furstenfeld7.2 
 7. Moric, UBSC G.7.1 
 8. Chappell, Klostern.7.0 
 9. Nelson, Kapfenberg7.0 
 10. Robinson, Fursten.6.8 
Assists Per Game
 Benedikt DANEK
  Arkadia
  (176-PG-86)
  Avg: 6.9
 1. Danek, Arkadia6.9 
 2. Fears, Kapfenberg6.4 
 3. Shavies, Furstenf.5.9 
 4. Schreiner, Kapfe.5.3 
 5. Klepeisz, Gussing5.1 
 6. Curry, Gmunden4.9 
 7. Stazic, BC Vienna4.7 
 8. Schaal, UBSC G.4.4 
 9. Grum, UBSC G.3.9 
 10. Milosevic, St.Pol.3.8 
Steals Per Game
 Jeremy FEARS
  Kapfenberg
  (196-G-85)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Fears, Kapfenberg2.5 
 2. Shavies, Furstenf.2.3 
 3. Matthews, BC Vi.2.0 
 4. Pryor, Wels1.9 
 5. Schreiner, Kapfe.1.9 
 6. Toroman, BC Vienna1.9 
 7. Brown, Wels1.8 
 8. O''Neal, Furstenfeld1.5 
 9. Mayer, Gmunden1.5 
 10. Danek, Arkadia1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Gary WARE
  Furstenfeld
  (205-F/C-83)
  Avg: 1.1
 1. Ware, Furstenfeld1.1 
 2. Scott, Gussing0.9 
 3. Skurdauskas, Arkad.0.8 
 4. Kohlmaier, Wels0.7 
 5. Brown, Wels0.7 
 6. Arnold, Gmunden0.7 
 7. Koch, Gussing0.7 
 8. Rizvic, Oberwart0.6 
 9. Nelson, Kapfenberg0.6 
 10. Moric, UBSC G.0.6 


A Bundesliga Semifinals: Second games - by Eurobasket News

Second games of the A Bundesliga Semifinals just ended. Gmunden and Klosterneuburg registered home wins against their rivals. Gmunden grabbed 82-81 thriller win over Wels and now has 2-0 lead in the series. The format is best-of-five, so Gmunden is just one win away from the Finals. Klosterneuburg handed 62-50 loss to Kapfenberg tying the score to 1-1 in the series. Third games are scheduled for Thursday. Wels and Kapfenberg will be the hosts.

Klosterneub. - Kapfenberg 62-50 (1-1)
The game was mostly controlled by Xion Dukes. Kapfenberg Bulls was better in fourth quarter 15-13. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Bosnian power forward Ramiz Suljanovic (206-79) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 11 rebounds. International guard Moritz Lanegger (190-90, agency: Interperformances) contributed with 10 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. American forward Chad Gray (200-85, college: Co.Carolina) replied with 13 points and 6 rebounds and the former international guard Deteri Mayes (189-74, college: Murray St., agency: Court Side) added 11 points in the effort for Kapfenberg Bulls. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games.
Top scorers:
Klosterneub.: R.Suljanovic 18+11reb+2ast, C.Bobb 12+3reb+1ast, M.Lanegger 10+7reb, D.Zeleznik 8+2reb+1ast, D.Hamidovic 5+4reb+1ast, C.Nagler 3+4reb+2ast
Kapfenberg: C.Gray 13+6reb+1ast, D.Mayes 11+4reb+3ast, D.Nelson 7+6reb+1ast, L.Gordon 6+4reb, H.Kuegerl 4+3reb, S.Knabl 4+1reb
gschID: 175677


Gmunden - Wels 82-81 (2-0)
The hosts trailed by 4 points at the halftime before their 20-14 charge in the third quarter, which allowed them to win the game. The best player for the winners was American forward Dan Oppland (203-84, college: Valparaiso, agency: SportsTalent) who had a double-double by scoring 18 points and 14 rebounds. The other American import guard Morris Curry (178-87, college: Providence) chipped in 21 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. The former international forward Davor Lamesic (203-83, agency: Interperformances) produced 25 points and 5 rebounds and American guard Todd Brown (196-87, college: Wright St.) added 20 points and 6 rebounds respectively for the guests. Four Raiffeisen Wels players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Gmunden: M.Curry 21+6reb+4ast, D.Oppland 18+14reb+2ast, E.Murati 16+5reb+3ast, M.Mayer 9+2reb+1ast, P.Huetter 7+3reb, F.Schoeninger 6+2reb+3ast
Wels: D.Lamesic 25+5reb+3ast, T.Brown 20+6reb+1ast, Q.Pryor 15+7reb+4ast, J.Werner 10+11reb, A.Farokhmanesh 9+1reb+2ast, L.Stutz 2


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

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Denzel BOWLES
  Siauliai
  (208-F/C-89)
  Avg: 19.3
 1. Bowles, Siauliai19.3 
 2. Cipruss, Tarvas18.3 
 3. Mayo, Liepaja16.2 
 4. Amis, Tartu Ulikool15.9 
 5. Hallik, Tarvas15.2 
 6. Veideman, Tartu U.14.3 
 7. Lucas, Valmiera14.3 
 8. Karasev, Triumph14.3 
 9. Young, Ventspils14.2 
 10. Jefferson, Triumph14.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Kaspars CIPRUSS
  Tarvas
  (210-C-82)
  Avg: 9.8
 1. Cipruss, Tarvas9.8 
 2. McClure, Kedainiai9.3 
 3. Arnold, TTU7.7 
 4. Bowles, Siauliai7.4 
 5. Johnson, Naglis P.7.1 
 6. Rozitis, Valmiera6.9 
 7. Amis, Tartu Ulikool6.3 
 8. Delas, Baltai Kaun.6.2 
 9. Fall, Kalev/Cramo6.1 
 10. Joneliunas, Sakal.6.0 
Assists Per Game
 Rashaun BROADUS
  Siauliai
  (183-PG-84)
  Avg: 4.4
 1. Broadus, Siauliai4.4 
 2. Maceina, Juventus4.3 
 3. Ezerskis, Lietkabe.4.3 
 4. Kulagin, Triumph3.8 
 5. Rinkevicius, Nagli.3.8 
 6. McKee, Triumph3.8 
 7. Lucas, Valmiera3.8 
 8. Janavicius, Baltai3.7 
 9. Kadziulis, Rudupis3.5 
 10. Mayo, Liepaja3.3 
Steals Per Game
 Tywain MCKEE
  Triumph
  (188-PG-86)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. McKee, Triumph2.8 
 2. Akenparg, TTU1.8 
 3. Virsis, Valmiera1.8 
 4. Keedus, TTU1.8 
 5. Long, Siauliai1.7 
 6. Young, Ventspils1.7 
 7. Janavicius, Baltai1.7 
 8. Hughes, Pieno Z.1.6 
 9. Skele, Kalev/Cramo1.6 
 10. Matulionis, Lietk.1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Bamba FALL
  Kalev/Cramo
  (216-C-86)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Fall, Kalev/Cramo2.4 
 2. Rozitis, Valmiera2.1 
 3. Gumeniuk, Juventus1.6 
 4. Johnson, Naglis P.1.5 
 5. Amis, Tartu Ulikool1.2 
 6. Leiteris, Liepaja1.1 
 7. Staniulis, Lietkab.1.0 
 8. Morgan, Pieno Z.1.0 
 9. Jefferson, Triumph0.9 
 10. Toome, Kalev/Cra.0.9 


Zalgiris claim third title in a row - by Eurobasket News

FINAL
Zalgiris - Lietuvos rytas 74-70
Zalgiris registered victory in the Baltic League Final. They shot down Lietuvos Rytas to claim the title for the third time in a row. Mantas Kalnietis (196-G-86, agency: Interperformances) stepped up with 19 points to pace the winners. Lietuvos Rytas spurred ahead in the first term. Nearly perfect offense propelled the Vilnius team to a 26:22 lead after ten minutes. Zalgiris changed the complexion of the game in the second frame. They shut down their opponents defensively limiting those to only 10 points. Zalgiris erased the deficit and eventually posted a 42:36 halftime lead. Zalgiris maintained the lead throughout the third term. They arrived at the final intermission up by as many as 5 points 59:54. Marko Popovic (185-G-82, agency: Alti Sport, college: S.Idaho JC) gave Zalgiris a 12-point lead midway through the final term 70:58. Javtokas then converted a layup to stretch the margin to 14-point mark. But Lietuvos Rytas answered with a 9:0 run to narrow the gap. Tyrese Rice (185-PG-87, agency: Priority Sports, college: Boston Coll.) dragged the Vilnius team within 4 points with 19 seconds remaining however Lietuvos Rytas failed to capitalize on Jankunas turnover and Zalgiris hang on to win the battle. Mindaugas Kuzminskas (205-F-89) and Marko Popovic provided 11 points each for Zalgiris. Tyrese Rice answered with 20 points for Lietuvos Rytas. Predrag Samardziski (214-C-86, agency: Beo Basket) added 15 points and 8 rebounds in the loss.
3rd Place
Siauliai - VEF Riga 75-92
VEF Riga earned Baltic League Bronze medals. They overcame Siauliai tonight to step onto the pedestal. Antanas Kavaliauskas (208-C-84, agency: Interperformances, college: Texas A&M) stepped up with 24 points for VEF Riga. Siauliai started the game aggressively. Supported by sold-out crowd at the Siauliai Arena the hosts eked out a 24:20 lead after ten minutes. But VEF Riga gained composure in the second frame. The Latvian team unleashed 30 points in the second period to establish a 50:40 halftime lead. VEF Riga limited Siauliai to just 12 points in the third term to accumulate a 15-point lead at the final intermission 68:53. The hosts never recovered in the fourth term as VEF Riga cruised to the victory at the end. Kristaps Janicenoks (196-F-83) finished with 16 points, while Donatas Zavackas (203-F-80, college: Pittsburgh) produced 15 points in the win. Darius Gvezdauskas (191-PG-88) answered with 20 points for Siauliai. Vitali Liutych (198-G/F-92) had 13 points in the loss.


*****************************************************
  BELARUS   


Maze's 15 points and 8 assists give him Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News

25-year old guard Bobby Maze (191-G-86) had an amazing evening in the last round for league's best team Minsk-2006 and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 6 (Second Stage).
He had the game-high 15 points adding four rebounds and eight assists for Minsk-2006 in his team's victory, helping them to outclass Grodno-93 (#2, 25-5) with 43-point margin 106-63. It allowed Minsk-2006 to consolidate first place in the Belarusian league. Minsk-2006 has a very good season and are considered to have a run for the championship title. They improved their record to 29-1. Maze just recently signed at Minsk-2006, being already a very valuable addition to the team. University of Tennessee graduate has very impressive stats this year. Maze is in league's top in points (5th best: 14.5ppg), assists (5th best: 4.2apg) and averages solid 61.4% FGP.

Second best performed player last round was Kiril Sitnik (190-G-89) of SBK Osipovichi. He is a guard in his first season at SBK Osipovichi. In the last game Sitnik recorded impressive 26 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Of course he lead SBK Osipovichi to another comfortable win outscoring Sozh Gomel (#-1, 0-30) 105-33. This victory allowed SBK Osipovichi to move up to -3th position in Play-Out. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 14-16 record. Sitnik is a newcomer at SBK Osipovichi and quickly became one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 16.9ppg (#2). He also registered 4.6 boards per game.

Third place about best performers goes to another SBK Osipovichi's star - guard Ilya Sharipov (197-G-91). Sharipov showcased his all-around game by recording 14 points, thirteen rebounds (!!!) and four assists in the last round. He was another key player of SBK Osipovichi, helping his team with a 105-33 easy win against #-1 ranked Sozh Gomel in a game of the week. The chances of SBK Osipovichi ranking at the top of Play-Out, however are very questionable as they have already lost 16 games, recording just fourteen victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Sharipov could help SBK Osipovichi to bring them higher in the standings. Sharipov has a very solid season. In 19 games in Belarus he scored 9.3ppg. He also has 6.0rpg and FGP: 57.0%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Anatoli Svirydov (192-G-82) of SBK Osipovichi - 20 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists
5. Yury Mishukov (205-C-85) of SBK Osipovichi - 11 points and 14 rebounds
6. Kiril Sitnik (190-G-89) of SBK Osipovichi - 23 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Siarhei Charykau (184-PG-82) of SBK Osipovichi - 18 points, 2 rebounds and 10 assists
8. Artem Malkov (185-PG-88) of Rubon - 18 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists
9. Ilya Sharipov (197-G-91) of SBK Osipovichi - 12 points and 12 rebounds
10. Aliaksandr Kudrautsau (190-G-80) of Minsk-2006 - 15 points, 3 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)


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

Standings - Division I

D1 Standings
 1. Spirou 21-8 
 2. Antwerp 20-8 
 3. Oostende 19-10 
 4. Aalstar 16-13 
 5. Leuven 14-14 
 6. M.Hainaut 13-15 
 7. Gent 11-18 
 8. Liege 9-19 
 9. Verviers-Pep. 5-23 

Regular Season: Round 32

Apr. 28: Oostende - Verviers-Pep. 89-72
Apr. 29: Gent - Leuven 72-49
Apr. 27: Spirou - Aalstar 68-64
Apr. 28: Antwerp - Liege 64-48

Regular Season: Round 33

May. 2: M.Hainaut - Gent
May. 2: Verviers-Pep. - Spirou
May. 2: Oostende - Liege
May. 2: Antwerp - Leuven


Stats Leaders - Division I

Points Per Game
 Christopher COPELAND
  Aalstar
  (203-F-84)
  Avg: 21
 1. Copeland, Aalstar21.0 
 2. Bostic, Liege16.3 
 3. Mallet, Spirou15.1 
 4. Lojeski, Oostende15.0 
 5. Black, Antwerp14.3 
 6. Love, Verviers-Pep.13.9 
 7. Broyles, Spirou13.9 
 8. Taylor, M.Hainaut13.9 
 9. Freeman, Leuven13.8 
 10. Haynes, Gent13.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Graham BROWN
  Gent
  (205-C-84)
  Avg: 8
 1. Brown, Gent8.0 
 2. Love, Verviers-Pep.7.9 
 3. Young, Aalstar7.3 
 4. Mejri, Antwerp7.2 
 5. Merriex, Verviers.6.8 
 6. Mukubu, Verviers.6.8 
 7. McLean, Leuven6.8 
 8. Booker, Oostende6.1 
 9. Jackson, Aalstar6.0 
 10. Bostic, Liege5.7 
Assists Per Game
 Dominic WATERS
  Liege
  (185-PG-86)
  Avg: 4.2
 1. Waters, Liege4.2 
 2. Djordjevic, Ooste.3.7 
 3. Marnegrave, Leuven3.4 
 4. Black, Antwerp3.1 
 5. Bosco, Gent3.0 
 6. Slaughter, M.Hai.2.9 
 7. Steinbach, Aalstar2.9 
 8. Bostic, Liege2.7 
 9. Taylor, M.Hainaut2.7 
 10. Thompson, Vervier.2.7 
Steals Per Game
 Adeola DAGUNDURO
  Leuven
  (196-G-86)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Dagunduro, Leuven2.5 
 2. Mukubu, Verviers.2.2 
 3. Black, Antwerp2.2 
 4. Hopkins, Antwerp2.0 
 5. Bosco, Gent1.9 
 6. Wilson, Antwerp1.9 
 7. Mallet, Spirou1.8 
 8. Bostic, Liege1.7 
 9. Muya, Liege1.7 
 10. Haynes, Gent1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Salah MEJRI
  Antwerp
  (216-C-86)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Mejri, Antwerp2.5 
 2. Riddick, Spirou1.7 
 3. Jennings, Liege1.5 
 4. Love, Verviers-Pep.1.0 
 5. Young, Aalstar0.9 
 6. Booker, Oostende0.8 
 7. Nivins, M.Hainaut0.6 
 8. Vaughn, Antwerp0.6 
 9. Copeland, Aalstar0.6 
 10. De Zeeuw, Vervier.0.5 


Gembo wins D2 title - by Eurobasket News

Belgian second division for men is over. Gembo cruised past Waregem in decisive Game Three of the Finals winning the D2 championship title. It was a 72-88 road victory for Gembo tonight. Gembo started the series with comfortable 98-70 home win. That game was played last Tuesday. On Friday, Waregem celebrated 86-78 tying the score to 1-1. Waregem was the regular season champion of D2 with 20-6 record, so they played decisive Game Three in the front of their fans, but that did not help. Gembo was the second ranked team of the regular season with 19-7 score. They eliminated Essor Charleroi with perfect 2-0 in the Quarterfinals. Later Gembo edged Fleurus with 2-1 in the Semis.


D1 Round 32: Spirou Charleroi defeats Okapi Aalstar in the game between Top 4 teams - by Eurobasket News

The games at this stage are more interesting as they can be crucial for the final standings in Regular Season. Despite we already know who is stronger and who is weaker, there may be still last minute susprises and upsets. Coincidentally all hosts won their games.

An interesting game for Spirou Charleroi (21-8) which hosted in Charleroi 4th ranked Okapi Aalstar (16-13). First ranked Spirou Charleroi managed to get a 4-point victory 68-64. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Okapi Aalstar. The hosts trailed by 4 points after three quarters before their 13-5 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Spirou Charleroi dominated on the defensive end, holding Okapi Aalstar to just 5 points in fourth quarter. Spirou Charleroi forced 19 Okapi Aalstar turnovers. Georgian forward Tornike Shengelia (207-91) orchestrated the victory by scoring 19 points and 6 rebounds. International forward Christophe Beghin (207-80, agency: Court Side) contributed with 10 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Spirou Charleroi's coach Giovanni Bozzi used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. American guard Stefon Jackson (196-85, college: UTEP) replied with a double-double by scoring 12 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists for Okapi Aalstar. Defending champion maintains first position with 21-8 record. Okapi Aalstar at the other side keeps the fourth place with 13 games lost. Spirou Charleroi are looking forward to face bottom-ranked VOO Verviers-Pepinster (#9) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Okapi Aalstar will have a break next round.
The game in Gent supposed to be also worth to mention about. 5th ranked Leuven Bears (14-14) played at the court of seventh ranked Optima Gent (11-18). Optima Gent smashed Leuven Bears 72-49. Worth to mention a great performance of the former international point guard Lionel Bosco (176-81, agency: Court Side) who helped to win the game recording 17 points, 5 rebounds and 7 assists and Michael Haynes who added 11 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists during the contest. Samoan-American power forward John Tofi (203-84, college: UTEP) responded with a double-double by scoring 10 points and 13 rebounds. Leuven Bears' coach gave up on the game allowing to play eleven players seeing no chance for a win. Optima Gent maintains seventh position with 11-18 record. Leuven Bears at the other side keep the fifth place with 14 games lost. Optima Gent will play against higher ranked Belfius Mons-Hainaut (#6) in Quaregnon in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Leuven Bears will play on the road against the league's second-placed Antwerp Giants and will have a slim chance for a victory.

In the last two games of round 32 Liege were beaten by Antwerp on the road 64-48. Oostende won against Verviers-Pep. on its own court 89-72.

Antwerp - Liege 64-48

No shocking result in a game when second ranked Antwerp Giants (20-8) beat at home 8th ranked Belgacom Liege (9-19) 64-48. It looked good early as Belgacom Liege took an 7-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Antwerp Giants had a 22-13 second period charge getting the lead and Belgacom Liege was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 48-64. Antwerp Giants dominated on the defensive end, holding Belgacom Liege to just 7 points in third quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 52 of its points in the paint compared to Belgacom Liege's 22. Antwerp Giants forced 23 Belgacom Liege turnovers and outrebounded them 31-20 including a 14-3 advantage in offensive rebounds. American players dominated the game. Worth to mention a great performance of guard Bryan Hopkins (183-83, college: SMU) who helped to win the game recording 16 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists and point guard Timothy Black (178-81, college: Barton, NC, agency: Limelight Hoops) who added 14 points, 5 assists and 4 steals during the contest. Antwerp Giants' coach Eddy Casteels allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Forward Josh Bostic (196-87, college: Findlay, OH) responded with 15 points and 4 assists and forward Terrence Jennings (205-88, college: Louisville) scored 12 points. Antwerp Giants have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain second position with 20-8 record behind leader Spirou. Belgacom Liege at the other side keeps the eighth place with 19 games lost. Antwerp Giants will play against Leuven Bears (#5) at home in the next round. Belgacom Liege will play against Base Oostende and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Antwerp: B.Hopkins 16+6reb+5ast, T.Black 14+2reb+5ast, S.Mejri 11+8reb+1ast, D.Wilson 6+7reb+3ast, R.Moors 5+2reb+1ast, J.Vaughn 4+2reb
Liege: J.Bostic 15+4reb+4ast, T.Jennings 12+3reb+1ast, G.Hockins 9+3reb, P.Gillet 5+5reb+1ast, G.Muya 5+3reb+2ast, I.Iarochevitch 2
gschID: 132459


Oostende - Verviers-Pep. 89-72

Very expected game when 9th ranked VOO Verviers-Pepinster (5-23) lost on the road to third ranked Base Oostende (19-10) 89-72. The game was mostly controlled by Base Oostende. VOO Verviers-Pepinster was better in third quarter 23-22. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Base Oostende players were unselfish on offense dishing 21 assists. Worth to mention a great performance of Slovenian forward Dragisa Drobnjak (200-77, agency: Beo Basket) who helped to win the game recording 14 points and 9 rebounds and American guard Matt Lojeski (198-85, college: Hawaii) who added 13 points during the contest. Four Base Oostende players scored in double figures. Base Oostende's coach Dario Gjergja allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. American power forward Jason Love (206-87, college: Xavier) responded with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 11 rebounds and naturalized DR Congolese swingman Wen Boss Mukubu (198-83, college: UAB, agency: SportsTalent) produced a double-double by scoring 20 points and 10 rebounds (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field). Base Oostende maintains third position with 19-10 record having just two points less than leader Spirou. VOO Verviers-Pepinster lost third consecutive game. They stay dead last with 23 lost games. Base Oostende will play against Belgacom Liege (#8) at home in the next round where they are favorite. VOO Verviers-Pepinster will play against the league's leader Spirou Charleroi and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Oostende: D.Drobnjak 14+9reb+3ast, M.Lojeski 13+2reb+2ast, K.Winston 13+2reb+2ast, V.Petrovic 11+2reb+2ast, Q.Serron 8+4reb, C.Booker 7+4reb+2ast
Verviers-Pep.: W.Boss Mukubu 20+10reb+1ast, J.Love 17+11reb+3ast, B.Merriex 11+6reb+1ast, M.De Zeeuw 9+5reb+1ast, J.Beal 7+1reb, T.Thompson 6+3reb+2ast
gschID: 132460


Spirou - Aalstar 68-64

An interesting game for Spirou Charleroi (21-8) which hosted in Charleroi 4th ranked Okapi Aalstar (16-13). First ranked Spirou Charleroi managed to get a 4-point victory 68-64. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Okapi Aalstar. The hosts trailed by 4 points after three quarters before their 13-5 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Spirou Charleroi dominated on the defensive end, holding Okapi Aalstar to just 5 points in fourth quarter. Spirou Charleroi forced 19 Okapi Aalstar turnovers. Georgian forward Tornike Shengelia (207-91) orchestrated the victory by scoring 19 points and 6 rebounds. International forward Christophe Beghin (207-80, agency: Court Side) contributed with 10 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Spirou Charleroi's coach Giovanni Bozzi used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. American guard Stefon Jackson (196-85, college: UTEP) replied with a double-double by scoring 12 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists and his fellow American import forward Christopher Copeland (203-84, college: Colorado) added 21 points in the effort for Okapi Aalstar. Defending champion maintains first position with 21-8 record. Okapi Aalstar at the other side keeps the fourth place with 13 games lost. Spirou Charleroi are looking forward to face bottom-ranked VOO Verviers-Pepinster (#9) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Okapi Aalstar will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Spirou: T.Shengelia 19+6reb+1ast, C.Beghin 10+5reb+3ast, D.Mallet 9+3reb+1ast, D.Broyles 8+1reb+1ast, J.Hamilton 7+4reb+2ast, S.Massot 4+1reb+2ast
Aalstar: C.Copeland 21+2reb+1ast, S.Jackson 12+10reb+5ast, K.Kruger 8+5reb+3ast, J.Holiday 8+3reb, C.Young 7+7reb, N.Fox 6+8reb
gschID: 132457


Gent - Leuven 72-49

The game in Gent supposed to be also worth to mention about. 5th ranked Leuven Bears (14-14) played at the court of seventh ranked Optima Gent (11-18). Optima Gent smashed Leuven Bears 72-49. The game was mostly controlled by Optima Gent. Leuven Bears was better in second period 17-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Worth to mention a great performance of the former international point guard Lionel Bosco (176-81, agency: Court Side) who helped to win the game recording 17 points, 5 rebounds and 7 assists and American power forward Michael Haynes (203-81, college: Fordham) who added 11 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists during the contest. Four Optima Gent players scored in double figures. Samoan-American power forward John Tofi (203-84, college: UTEP) responded with a double-double by scoring 10 points and 13 rebounds and naturalized American forward Ian Hanavan (202-80, college: Evansville, agency: Interperformances) scored 10 points. Leuven Bears' coach gave up on the game allowing to play eleven players seeing no chance for a win. Optima Gent maintains seventh position with 11-18 record. Leuven Bears at the other side keep the fifth place with 14 games lost. Optima Gent will play against higher ranked Belfius Mons-Hainaut (#6) in Quaregnon in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Leuven Bears will play on the road against the league's second-placed Antwerp Giants and will have a slim chance for a victory.
Top scorers:
Gent: L.Bosco 17+5reb+7ast, M.Jenkins 14+3reb+2ast, S.Geukens 12+3reb, G.Brown 11+7reb+3ast, M.Haynes 11+6reb+4ast, B.Heinle 7+6reb+2ast
Leuven: J.Tofi 10+13reb, I.Hanavan 10+4reb+1ast, B.Freeman 9+1ast, N.Marnegrave 8+3reb+1ast, J.McLean 7+5reb, J.Terrell 2+2reb
gschID: 132458



Charleroi Transfer News - by Peter Buyse

Just like last year Sacha Massot (205-F/C-83) is joining the Charleroi roster for the rest of the season. Due to various injuries, the last being a broken hand, he only played 10 games this season for Antibes and averaged 11.3 ppg and 6.4 rpg. He played his last game for Antibes on Jan 20th and has been recovering in Belgium.
Charleroi is still waiting for the return of Tornike Shengalia and adding Massot a former Spirou should bolster the roster.

Another Antibes and also former Charleroi player Trevor Huffman (185-PG-79, Kent St.) could also join Spirou as soon as Antibes is safe from relegation. His may come back to replace the player who replaced him, Andrew Wisniewski who suffered a season ending injury and has been out of action since early March.


Div 2 - by Peter Buyse

Quite a bit of transfer news already towards the next season.

First off the departure at Boom of long time head coach Paul Vervaeck who coached the team since 2008. His replacement is present Fleurus coach Tom Poppe who previously coached Pitzemburg and Zwevezele also D2 teams. In 2010 Poppe led Zwevezelke to the D2 championship.
Boom has also announced the arrival of Mitchel Gorremans (190-G-85), Witse Van Schil (188-G-83) and the D2 topscorer Dieter Souveryns (194-G-83) for next season.

Paul Vervaeck has been announced by Fleurus as their head coach for the 2012-2013 season. According to the team's website Boom guard Terry Deroover (180-G-91) has reached an agreement with Fleurus to join the team for next season.

Boom's Thomas Foucart (195-F-84) is leaving the team and is headed to Waregem where he is reunited with his twin brother Olivier Foucart.
Thomas Van De Vondel (197-F/G-80) will not be on Waregem's roster for the 2012-2013 season.

Another team working hard towards their roster for the 2012-2013 season is Sint Niklaas Conders who have reached an agreement with the following players.
Jeroen Gerlo at present Latem De Pinte, Joao Pedro De Decker also Latem De Pinte, Dennis Bovoy presently at Soba Antwerpen and Dave D'Haens who plays for St Jan Antwerp.


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

Standings

D1 Standings
 1. Spartans 8-1 
 2. Police 5-1 
 3. Troopers 4-2 
 4. Cadets 3-1 
 5. Dolphins 2-1 
 6. Flames 1-1 
 7. Bullets 1-3 
 8. BDF V 1-6 
 9. Saints 0-4 
 10. Splinters 0-5 

Regular Season: Round 8

Apr. 25: Police - Spartans 66-64
Apr. 28: Police - Spartans 65-85
Apr. 27: BDF V - Cadets 59-64
Apr. 28: Troopers - Dolphins 59-55

Regular Season: Round 9

May. 1: Cadets - Police
May. 4: Saints - BDF V
May. 5: Splinters - Bullets
May. 5: Flames - Cadets
May. 5: Flames - Bullets
May. 5: Splinters - Cadets
May. 5: Dolphins - Police
May. 5: Troopers - Spartans



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


Flamengo defeat Uberlandia in overtime - by Eurobasket News

Uberlandia - Flamengo 108:110 (OT)

Flamengo registered a tough narrow road win over Uberlandia in the first game of the quarterfinal series. David Jackson (196-G-82, agency: Scenic Sports Group, LLC., college: Penn St.) knocked down 29 points to lead the visitors to the opening victory in the series. Flamengo looked better in the first half. The visitors piled up a 45:36 halftime lead at the interval. Uberlandia however took over right after the big break. The hosts fired 31 points in the third quarter to narrow the deficit at just 2 points. Uberlandia erased the deficit in the fourth term and forced overtime. But Flamengo knocked down 20 points in the extra period to celebrate a dramatic win at the end. Caio Silveira (211-C-87, agency: Interperformances) finished with 25 points and 6 boards, while Marcelo Magalhaes (199-F/G-75, agency: Interperformances) added 20 points for Flamengo. Robert Day (197-F-82, college: W.Oregon) answered with 30 points for Uberlandia. Lucas Cipolini (206-F/C-86, college: BYU-Hawaii) netted 22 points and 11 rebounds for the losing side.

Uberlandia: Robert Day 30, Lucas Cipolini 22+11 boards
Flamengo: David Jackson 29, Caio Silveira 25, Marcelo Magalhaes 20


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

A1 Standings

A1 Standings
Championship Group
 1. Cibona 12-0 
 2. Cedevita 8-3 
 3. KK Split 7-3 
 4. Zadar 6-5 
 5. KK Zagreb CO 6-5 
 6. Jolly 2-9 
 7. Svjetlost 2-9 
 8. Zabok 1-10 
Play-Out
 1. Krizevci 11-6 
 2. Alkar Sinj 11-7 
 3. Kvarner 2010 10-8 
 4. Darda 8-10 
 5. Borik 7-11 
 6. Dubrovnik 6-11 
Stage One Standings

Second Stage: Round 11

Championship

Apr. 24: KK Zagreb CO - Svjetlost 87-71
Apr. 25: Jolly - KK Split 77-83
Apr. 23: Zadar - Cedevita 71-73
Apr. 25: Zabok - Cibona 52-112

Play-Out

Apr. 28: Alkar Sinj - Kvarner 2010 90-76
Apr. 28: Borik - Darda 84-70
Apr. 28: Dubrovnik - Krizevci

Round 14

Apr. 29: Cibona - KK Zagreb CO 100-85


Stats Leaders - A1

Points Per Game
 Ivan MIMICA
  KK Split
  (193-G-80)
  Avg: 19.5
 1. Mimica, KK Split19.5 
 2. Ross, Jolly18.4 
 3. Ceskovic, Kvarner17.7 
 4. Simovic, Kvarner15.3 
 5. Stimac, Svjetlost15.1 
 6. Sobin, KK Split15.0 
 7. Vrbanc, Zadar14.7 
 8. Kruslin, Zabok14.3 
 9. Grgat, Krizevci14.2 
 10. Drezga, Borik13.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Ive IVANOV
  Zadar
  (201-C-85)
  Avg: 7.3
 1. Ivanov, Zadar7.3 
 2. Stimac, Svjetlost7.1 
 3. Simovic, Kvarner7.0 
 4. Cinac, Kvarner 20107.0 
 5. Peraica, Darda6.6 
 6. Zupic, Alkar Sinj6.6 
 7. Sobin, KK Split6.6 
 8. Vujcic, KK Split5.9 
 9. Grgat, Krizevci5.8 
 10. Mrva, Jolly5.7 
Assists Per Game
 Josip GLAVINIC
  Krizevci
  (192-G-82)
  Avg: 5.1
 1. Glavinic, Krizevci5.1 
 2. Vujcic, KK Split4.9 
 3. Ross, Jolly4.6 
 4. Blajic, Kvarner4.2 
 5. Subotic, KK Split4.2 
 6. Kostomaj, Svjet.3.8 
 7. Ceskovic, Kvarner3.1 
 8. Tomas, Zabok3.1 
 9. Kruslin, Zabok2.7 
 10. Bubalo, Alkar Sinj2.7 
Steals Per Game
 Ronald ROSS
  Jolly
  (188-G-83)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Ross, Jolly2.9 
 2. Bicvic, Darda2.0 
 3. Kostomaj, Svjet.1.9 
 4. Blajic, Kvarner1.8 
 5. Stimac, Svjetlost1.6 
 6. Puljko, Jolly1.5 
 7. Ivanov, Zadar1.5 
 8. Mimica, KK Split1.5 
 9. Sarlija, Borik1.5 
 10. Sobin, KK Split1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Filip KRALJEVIC
  Zabok
  (214-F-89)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Kraljevic, Zabok1.9 
 2. Sarlija, Borik1.3 
 3. Bubalo, Zabok1.1 
 4. Vujcic, KK Split1.1 
 5. Zupic, Alkar Sinj1.1 
 6. Vukovic, KK Split0.8 
 7. Sobin, KK Split0.7 
 8. Buva, Krizevci0.7 
 9. Kastropil, Zadar0.6 
 10. Diminic, Dubrovnik0.5 


A1 Round 11 (second stage): Cedevita beats Zadar by two after a very close game - by Eurobasket News

Group Championship
Zadar - Cedevita 71-73
The most exciting game of round 11 in the A1 took place in Zadar. This derby game ended with only two-point home defeat of 4th placed Zadar (6-5) to second ranked Cedevita (8-3) 73-71 on Monday evening. The guests trailed by 1 point after three quarters before their 14-11 charge, which allowed them to win the game. 27 personal fouls committed by Zadar helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Forward Miro Bilan (213-89) orchestrated the victory by scoring 20 points and 6 rebounds (on 8-of-9 shooting from the field). International point guard Dontaye Draper (180-84, college: Charleston) contributed with 16 points and 5 assists for the winners. The former international guard Goran Vrbanc (194-84) answered with 21 points and center Ive Ivanov (201-85) added 11 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Zadar. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Cedevita maintains second place with 8-3 record having five points less than leader Krizevci. Zadar at the other side keeps the fourth position with five games lost. They share it with KK Zagreb CO. Cedevita's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Zagreb KK Zagreb CO.
Top scorers:
Cedevita: M.Bilan 20+6reb, D.Draper 16+3reb+5ast, M.Bazdaric 14+2reb+1ast, H.Owens 9+6reb+2ast, V.Vukusic 6+3reb+1ast, L.Warren 6+3reb
Zadar: G.Vrbanc 21+1reb+2ast, I.Ivanov 11+6reb+2ast, A.Kuso 9+4reb, D.Reed 9+2reb+1ast, A.Krapic 8+5reb, A.Delas 8+1ast
gschID: 171832


Zabok - Cibona 52-112
A1 top team - Cibona (12-0) had no problems winning another game. This time they crushed eighth ranked Zabok (1-10) 112-52. The game without a history. Cibona led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 52 of its points in the paint compared to Zabok's 28. They outrebounded Zabok 48-24 including a 31-16 advantage in defensive rebounds. Cibona players were unselfish on offense dishing 24 assists comparing to just 6 passes made by Zabok's players. The best player for the winners was international forward Damjan Rudez (206-86) who scored 26 points (on 10-of-11 shooting from the field). American guard Khalid El-Amin (178-79, college: Connecticut) chipped in 19 points and 5 rebounds. Five Cibona players scored in double figures. Cibona's coach Jasmin Repesa felt very confident that he used entire bench and allowed the starting five to rest. Guard Domagoj Basic (190-86) produced 20 points and guard Robert Lez (192-79) added 11 points respectively for the hosts. The victory was the twelfth consecutive win for Cibona. They maintain first place with 12-0 record. Zabok lost their eighth game in a row. They keep the eighth position with ten games lost. Cibona's next round opponent will be Zadar (#4) at home. Zabok will play against KK Split (#3).
Top scorers:
Cibona: D.Rudez 26+3reb, K.El-Amin 19+5reb+2ast, D.Kus 16+3ast, G.Suton 13+6reb+1ast, T.Zubcic 12+4reb+4ast, A.Barbour 9+6reb+1ast
Zabok: D.Basic 20+1reb+2ast, R.Lez 11+4reb+1ast, I.Perincic 6+5reb, S.Jankovic 6+6reb+1ast, L.Pesut 4+4reb+1ast, A.Turk 2
gschID: 171829


Jolly - KK Split 77-83
The game in Sibenik was also quite interesting. Third ranked KK Split (7-3) played at the court of 6th ranked Jolly (2-9). KK Split managed to secure a 6-point victory 83-77 on Wednesday. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 24-17. But Jolly won second period 19-15. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Jolly was plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. Guard Ivan Mimica (193-80) orchestrated the victory by scoring 18 points and 5 assists. Swingman Josip Sobin (203-89) contributed with 20 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Five KK Split players scored in double figures. American guard Ronald Ross (188-83, college: Texas Tech) answered with 29 points, 7 assists and 4 steals and center Denis Vrsaljko (212-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza) added 18 points and 7 rebounds in the effort for Jolly. KK Split maintains third place with 7-3 record having seven points less than leader Krizevci. Loser Jolly keeps the sixth position with nine games lost. KK Split will face Zabok (#8) in Zabok in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Jolly will play on the road against Svjetlost in Slavonski Brod and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
KK Split: J.Sobin 20+6reb, I.Mimica 18+4reb+5ast, S.Subotic 15+2reb+7ast, L.Babic 12+8reb, N.Vujcic 10+5reb+4ast, T.Dijan 6+8reb+3ast
Jolly: R.Ross 29+3reb+7ast, D.Vrsaljko 18+7reb+1ast, M.Mrva 13+9reb, L.Katura 6+2reb+1ast, I.Josipovic 6+4reb, I.Salamun 2+2reb+3ast
gschID: 171830


KK Zagreb CO - Svjetlost 87-71
No shocking result in a game when fourth ranked KK Zagreb CO (6-5) beat at home 7th ranked Svjetlost (2-9) 87-71 on Tuesday. KK Zagreb CO forced 19 Svjetlost turnovers. Power forward Dario Saric (208-94) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 17 points, 11 rebounds and 5 assists. The former international power forward Damir Markota (210-85) contributed with 18 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. KK Zagreb CO's coach Drazen Brajkovic used a ten-player rotation and allowed the starting five to get some rest. Power forward Andrej Stimac (204-79) answered with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 12 rebounds and Slovenian guard Tadej Kostomaj (186-87) added 10 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists in the effort for Svjetlost. Five KK Zagreb CO and four Svjetlost players scored in double figures. The victory was the third consecutive win for KK Zagreb CO. Defending champion maintains fourth place with 6-5 record, which they share with Zadar. Loser Svjetlost dropped to the sixth position with nine games lost. KK Zagreb CO's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Zagreb to the arena Cedevita.
Top scorers:
KK Zagreb CO: D.Markota 18+8reb+1ast, D.Saric 17+11reb+5ast, S.Ozbolt 15+1reb+3ast, V.Morovic 11+4reb+2ast, P.Babic 11+3reb+3ast, I.Novacic 5+2reb
Svjetlost: A.Stimac 22+12reb+3ast, M.Batina 13+4reb+2ast, M.Matasovic 12+3reb, T.Kostomaj 10+5reb+5ast, D.Samija 8+5reb, P.Zivkovic 3+1reb
gschID: 171831


Group Play-Out
Alkar Sinj - Kvarner 2010 90-76
An interesting game for Alkar Sinj (11-7) which hosted in Sinj second-ranked Kvarner 2010 (10-8). Third ranked Alkar Sinj managed to get a 14-point victory 90-76. It was a key game for the second position in the league. It was a very close game until the last quarter, when Alkar Sinj's pressure prevailed and they won that period 29-21 extending their advantage to 14 points. Alkar Sinj forced 21 Kvarner 2010 turnovers. It was an exceptional evening for forward Stjepan Tesija (206-89, agency: PEPI SPORT) who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 21 points and 10 rebounds. Swingman Slavko Modric (203-84) accounted for 13 points and 6 rebounds for the winning side. Five Alkar Sinj players scored in double figures. Forward Dino Cinac (198-88) came up with 15 points and 7 rebounds and naturalized Bosnian guard Matija Ceskovic (192-81, agency: Court Side) added 15 points respectively for Kvarner 2010 in the defeat. Both coaches allowed to play bench players saving starting five for next games. Alkar Sinj moved-up to second place. Loser Kvarner 2010 dropped to the third position with eight games lost. Alkar Sinj will meet league's leader Cibona in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Kvarner 2010 will play against the league's leader Krizevci and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Alkar Sinj: S.Tesija 21+10reb+1ast, N.Gaurina 14+3reb+2ast, R.Rogic 13+1reb+3ast, S.Modric 13+6reb+3ast, F.Bubalo 11+2reb+3ast, Z.Zupic 9+4reb
Kvarner 2010: M.Ceskovic 15+2reb+3ast, D.Cinac 15+7reb, M.Juricic 11+3reb+2ast, T.Simovic 9+3reb, Z.Pehar 9+6reb, A.Boban 5+5reb
gschID: 171868


Borik - Darda 84-70
We cannot really consider it an upset in the game between close teams when 4th placed Vrijednosnice OS (8-10) lost to fifth ranked Borik Puntamika (7-11) in Zadar 70-84 on Saturday. The game was mostly controlled by Borik Puntamika. Vrijednosnice OS was better in third quarter 20-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Borik Puntamika forced 19 Vrijednosnice OS turnovers. Marijan Cakarun (-90) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 14 points and 10 rebounds. Marino Grabovac (-92) contributed with 16 points for the winners. Borik Puntamika's coach Marko Selin used an eleven-player rotation and allowed the starting five to get some rest. Swingman Veljko Budimir (199-85, agency: Court Side) answered with 13 points and 8 rebounds and Bosnian center Mato Peraica (203-81) added 18 points in the effort for Vrijednosnice OS. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Borik Puntamika maintains fifth place with 7-11 record. Loser Vrijednosnice OS keeps the fourth position with ten games lost. Borik Puntamika will face Dubrovnik (#6) at home in the next round.
Top scorers:
Borik: M.Grabovac 16+2reb+1ast, M.Cakarun 14+10reb+2ast, M.Jurjevic 13+2reb, M.Sarlija 12+1reb+1ast, M.Pesut 10+2reb+6ast, T.Ramljak 9+2reb+1ast
Darda: M.Peraica 18+4reb, L.Panduric 14+2ast, V.Budimir 13+8reb+2ast, A.Bicvic 13+2reb, F.Kordic 8+4reb+1ast, I.Milenkovic 4+4reb+1ast
gschID: 171869


Round 14
Cibona - KK Zagreb CO 100-85
Another exciting game was a derby match between two teams from Zagreb: Cibona (#1) and KK Zagreb CO (#4). Cibona (12-0) won against visiting KK Zagreb CO (6-5) 100-85. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of KK Zagreb CO. The game was mostly controlled by Cibona. KK Zagreb CO was better in fourth quarter 24-18. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. It was a great evening for the former international forward Marin Rozic (201-83, agency: PEPI SPORT) who led his team to a victory scoring 16 points and 8 rebounds. American-Lebanese swingman Antwain Barbour (196-82, college: Kentucky, agency: Court Side) helped adding 16 points and 7 rebounds. Four Cibona players scored in double figures. The former international guard Damir Mulaomerovic (195-74, agency: FCM) responded with 25 points and 7 assists and power forward Dario Saric (208-94) produced a double-double by scoring 23 points and 10 rebounds. Both coaches tested many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Cibona have an impressive series of twelve victories in a row. They maintain first place with 12-0 record. Defending champion KK Zagreb CO keeps the fourth position with five games lost. They share it with Zadar. Cibona will play against Zadar (#4) at home in the next round. KK Zagreb CO's supporters look forward to another derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Zagreb to the arena Cedevita.
Top scorers:
Cibona: A.Barbour 16+7reb+1ast, M.Rozic 16+8reb+1ast, K.El-Amin 15+1reb+2ast, G.Suton 13+5reb, D.Rudez 12+1reb+1ast, D.Kus 9+3ast
KK Zagreb CO: D.Mulaomerovic 25+2reb+7ast, D.Saric 23+10reb+1ast, D.Markota 11+8reb+6ast, D.Rancic 8+3reb, S.Ozbolt 8+4reb+1ast, I.Novacic 2


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

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Reinis STRUPOVICS
  Valga
  (192-G-87)
  Avg: 20.9
 1. Strupovics, Valga20.9 
 2. Raadik, Parnu18.1 
 3. Raley-Ross, Tln K.17.3 
 4. Soo, Rapla16.8 
 5. Cipruss, Tarvas16.6 
 6. Raap, Parnu16.2 
 7. Veideman, Tartu U.15.6 
 8. Pilk, TTU15.3 
 9. Hallik, Tarvas14.4 
 10. Akenparg, TTU14.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Kaspars CIPRUSS
  Tarvas
  (210-C-82)
  Avg: 10.3
 1. Cipruss, Tarvas10.3 
 2. Cricelli, Valga8.4 
 3. Fedortchuk, Tln K.8.2 
 4. Raadik, Parnu7.8 
 5. Arnold, TTU7.6 
 6. Shaw, Tln Kalev7.4 
 7. Ringmets, Rapla6.7 
 8. Pilk, TTU6.6 
 9. Fall, Kalev/Cramo6.5 
 10. Allingu, Tartu U.6.4 
Assists Per Game
 Edgars CUNDA
  Valga
  (195-G-84)
  Avg: 4.5
 1. Cunda, Valga4.5 
 2. Sokk, Tartu Ulikool4.2 
 3. Laane, Rapla4.2 
 4. Pilk, TTU3.6 
 5. Kriisa, Tarvas3.6 
 6. Sirsnins, Tarvas3.6 
 7. Raap, Parnu3.3 
 8. Dorbek, Tarvas3.3 
 9. Kriisa, Tartu Ulik.3.3 
 10. Sokk, Kalev/Cramo3.0 
Steals Per Game
 Edgars CUNDA
  Valga
  (195-G-84)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Cunda, Valga2.5 
 2. Raley-Ross, Tln K.2.2 
 3. Veideman, Tartu U.2.1 
 4. Laane, Rapla2.1 
 5. Kaldre, Rapla2.0 
 6. Leppik, Tartu Ulik.2.0 
 7. Dorbek, Tarvas1.9 
 8. Raap, Parnu1.8 
 9. Skele, Kalev/Cramo1.8 
 10. Cricelli, Valga1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Bamba FALL
  Kalev/Cramo
  (216-C-86)
  Avg: 1.7
 1. Fall, Kalev/Cramo1.7 
 2. Raadik, Parnu1.4 
 3. Amis, Tartu Ulikool1.1 
 4. Fedortchuk, Tln K.1.0 
 5. Ulyanko, Kalev/Cr.0.7 
 6. Toome, Kalev/Cramo0.6 
 7. Veski, Tarvas0.5 
 8. Hallik, Tarvas0.5 
 9. Keedus, TTU0.4 
 10. Makke, TTU0.4 


Tartu sweeps Rapla, heads to the final - by Janar

Tartu University destroyed Piimameister Otto/Rapla 95:56 in third game of semifinal series and won the series 3:0. TU reached the finals for 9th consecutive season.
As Rapla had to play without their injured leader Janar Soo (199-G/F-91), is was obvious from the first minutes that whese series would end in 3 games. With 4 minutes played, it was 10:2 and after first quarter, the hosts led 27:13. Since then, it was only a matter of formality.
Tanel Kurbas (197-F-88) led the winners with 17 pts and 6 rbs. Silver Leppik added 14 and Rain Raadik 12 points. For Rapla, Sven Kaldre scored 12 and Andre Prn 11 points.

In another series, BC Kalev/Cramo leads against BC Rakvere Tarvas 2:0.


*****************************************************
  EUROCHALLENGE   

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Jovo STANOJEVIC
  Karsi.
  (208-C-77)
  Avg: 20.3
 1. Stanojevic, Karsi.20.3 
 2. Copeland, Aalstar20.1 
 3. Chatman, Karsiyaka20.0 
 4. Mensah-Bonsu, Bes.18.5 
 5. Schilb, Chalon17.4 
 6. Trotter, Szolnok17.3 
 7. Jefferson, Triumph16.7 
 8. Holland, Roanne16.4 
 9. Brown, EWE Baskets15.8 
 10. Roll, Antwerp15.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Pops MENSAH-BONSU
  Besik.
  (206-F-83)
  Avg: 11.8
 1. Mensah-Bonsu, Bes.11.8 
 2. Bader, Szolnok8.5 
 3. Arnold, BK Pardu.8.4 
 4. Stanojevic, Karsi.7.9 
 5. Jefferson, Triumph7.8 
 6. Young, Aalstar7.8 
 7. Karaman, Karsiyaka7.3 
 8. Mejri, Antwerp7.2 
 9. Landry, Triumph6.9 
 10. Jackson, Aalstar6.8 
Assists Per Game
 Jared JORDAN
  Telekom .
  (188-PG-84)
  Avg: 8.8
 1. Jordan, Telekom8.8 
 2. Holston, Art.Drag.6.3 
 3. Tchicamboud, Cha.5.3 
 4. Schilb, Chalon4.8 
 5. Slagter, Leiden4.8 
 6. Trotter, Szolnok4.5 
 7. Brown, EWE Baskets4.3 
 8. Delaney, Chalon4.3 
 9. McKee, Triumph4.1 
 10. Diabate, Roanne4.0 
Steals Per Game
 Kenny HASBROUCK
  EWE B.
  (191-G-86)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Hasbrouck, EWE B.2.1 
 2. Holston, Art.Drag.1.8 
 3. de Jong, Leiden1.8 
 4. Young, Ventspils1.7 
 5. Schilb, Chalon1.6 
 6. Kotas, BK Pardubi.1.6 
 7. Muirhead, BK Pardu.1.6 
 8. Chatman, Karsiyaka1.6 
 9. Ikonic, Karsiyaka1.5 
 10. Delaney, Chalon1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Tony GAFFNEY
  Teleko.
  (204-F-84)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Gaffney, Teleko.2.1 
 2. Mejri, Antwerp1.8 
 3. Mensah-Bonsu, Bes.1.0 
 4. Hilliman, Leiden1.0 
 5. Young, Aalstar1.0 
 6. Meiers, Ventspils0.9 
 7. Soloviev, Triumph0.8 
 8. Pospisil, BK Pardu.0.8 
 9. de Jong, Leiden0.7 
 10. Antonov, N.Novgo.0.7 


Besiktas conquer EuroChallenge 2011/2012 campaign - by Eurobasket News

FINAL
Besiktas - Chalon 91-86
Besiktas conquer EuroChallenge 2011/2012 campaign leaving no chance in the Final game against Chalon. The Turkish favorites overcame the French side 91:86. Besiktas Milangaz started better and dominated the first period. The Turkish team produced a 27-15 surge in the first 10 minutes. The French outfit meanwhile woke up in the second period and bounced back with 25-17 to reduce to 4 points at the halftime. Chalon continued to come closer in the third period and tied the game at 48:48. The intrigue continued in the last stanza and it was extremely hot in the court. Zoran Erceg (210-C/F-85) and Hawkins made it 66:59 with 7 minutes to go, while Ilian Evtimov (201-F-83, agency: Interperformances, college: N.Carolina St.) nailed three for minus 4. Hawkins and Pops Mensah-Bonsu (206-F-83, agency: SportsTalent, college: G.Washington) gave Besiktas Milangaz 71:64 with less than 6 minutes to go, but Steed Tchicamboud (193-G-81) cut it to 71:66 midway through the quarter. Zoran Erceg however answered for all the questions in the game as he nailed three for 74:66 lead. Pops Mensah-Bonsu and Carlos Arroyo (188-G-79, college: FIU) brought 79:66 on the board as the Turkish team started to celebrate with 3 minutes to go. Aminu however scored four in a row for 79:70 and Carlos Arroyo nailed three for 82:70. Aminu and Delaney scored five in a row for 82:75 and asked the Head Coach of Besiktas for Timeout. Pops Mensah-Bonsu and Steed Tchicamboud exchanged the shots for 84:78, while Carlos Arroyo and Blake Schilb (200-F/G-83, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices, college: Loyola, IL) made the same for 86:81 with less than a minute to play. Carlos Arroyo, Delaney, Zoran Erceg and Aminu made the last shots for their teams as the board showed 91:86 on the board. Pops Mensah-Bonsu erupted with 26 points and 20 rebounds for the winners, while Zoran Erceg followed him with massive 25 points and 15 boards. Carlos Arroyo notched 15 and Hawkins added 13. Steed Tchicamboud ended up with 19 points in the losing effort and Aminu posted 13. Blake Schilb and Ilian Evtimov followed them with 12 points each.
3rd place
Szolnok - Triumph 87-94
Davon Jefferson (204-F-86, college: USC) brings Triumph EuroChallenge Bronze as the Russian team won the game for the third place. Triumph edged the hosts 94:87 as three players scored more than 20 points for the winners. Szolnoki Olaj started better and Obie Trotter (186-PG-84, agency: Court Side, college: Alabama A&M) gave them 7:2 in the opening tip. Fodor later scored for 27:21 and Gay opened the second frame for 8-point deficit. Davon Jefferson however tied the game at 33:33 and Sergey Karasev (201-F-93) brought the Russian team 43:39 advantage. The Hungarian team took the lead back in the third period when Obie Trotter scored for 62:60. Mills and Bader closed the third quarter at 66:61, but the victory went away from the hosts. It was Davon Jefferson and Co to produce a massive last period to take the third place in 2011/2012 season. Sergey Karasev made four free throws at the end and Davon Jefferson closed the game at 94:87. Davon Jefferson erupted with 37 points and 10 rebounds. Sergey Karasev notched 25, while Landry posted 20. Obie Trotter exploded with 33 points for the home side and Mills collected 19 points and 12 rebounds. Gay nailed 11, while Bader had 9 points and 10 rebounds.


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


Emporio Armani tab Justin Dentmon - by Eurobasket News

Emporio Armani deepened their backcourt. They agreed on terms of contract with Justin Dentmon (182-G-85, college: Washington). The guard arrives from D-League. He spent the majority of the season with the Austin Toros. The guard notched 22.2 points, 5.3 assists, 3.6 boards and 1.5 steals per game in D-League. The guard also had short stints with the Toronto Raptors and San Antonio Spurs. He averaged 5.5 points, 2.3 assists and 1.8 rebounds with the Raptors. The guard also delivered 2.0 points with the Spurs. Justin Dentmon also participated at D-League All-Star Game. Justin Dentmon played in Dominican Republic, Venezuela, D-League and Israel before. The guard was the member of USA National Team at the Panamerican Games in Guadalajara last year.


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

Stats Leaders - Korisliiga

Points Per Game
 Tim BLUE
  KTP
  (205-F-84)
  Avg: 23.2
 1. Blue, KTP23.2 
 2. Zeno, Nilan Bisons19.5 
 3. Crocker, KTP19.3 
 4. Beidler, Kauhajoki19.2 
 5. Durham, Salon Vilp.18.9 
 6. Brooks, Namika L.18.6 
 7. Holloway, Salon V.18.3 
 8. Hannah, Kauhajoki18.3 
 9. Newson, Kataja18.1 
 10. Ivey, Nilan Bisons17.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 John FIELDS
  Salon Vilpas
  (205-F-88)
  Avg: 12.2
 1. Fields, Salon Vilp.12.2 
 2. Durham, Salon Vilp.11.2 
 3. Blue, KTP10.4 
 4. Williams, Pyrinto10.2 
 5. Beidler, Kauhajoki9.8 
 6. Zeno, Nilan Bisons8.6 
 7. Newson, Kataja8.5 
 8. McDade, Nilan B.8.4 
 9. Brown, Kouvot8.1 
 10. Hamm, LrNM.7.8 
Assists Per Game
 Malik MOORE
  Namika L.
  (192-G-77)
  Avg: 5.2
 1. Moore, Namika L.5.2 
 2. Ivey, Nilan Bisons4.9 
 3. Haynes, LrNM.4.8 
 4. Hannah, Kauhajoki4.5 
 5. Sarcevic, KTP4.3 
 6. Williams, Pyrinto4.1 
 7. Virtanen, Kataja3.7 
 8. Walker, Kataja3.7 
 9. Zeno, Nilan Bisons3.5 
 10. Nikkarinen, Kouvot3.4 
Steals Per Game
 Kelly BEIDLER
  Kauhajoki
  (199-F-88)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Beidler, Kauhajoki2.3 
 2. Moore, Korihait2.2 
 3. Williams, Pyrinto2.0 
 4. Williams, Pyrinto1.9 
 5. Holloway, Salon V.1.8 
 6. Haynes, LrNM.1.7 
 7. Sarcevic, KTP1.7 
 8. Jordan, Kouvot1.6 
 9. Newson, Kataja1.6 
 10. Moore, Namika L.1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Kelly BEIDLER
  Kauhajoki
  (199-F-88)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Beidler, Kauhajoki1.9 
 2. Fields, Salon Vilp.1.8 
 3. Blue, KTP1.4 
 4. Williams, Pyrinto1.0 
 5. Zeno, Nilan Bisons1.0 
 6. Lehtoranta, Kataja0.9 
 7. Hamm, LrNM.0.8 
 8. Mottola, ToPo0.8 
 9. Jones, Nilan Bisons0.7 
 10. McDade, Nilan B.0.6 


Nilan Bisons reach Korisliiga Finals - by Eurobasket News

Nilan Bisons - Pyrinto 74-62

Nilan Bisons reach Korisliiga Finals beating Purinto 3-2 in the series. Loimaan Korikonkarit led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Americans were the main players on the court. Forward Ryan McDade (201-80, college: N.Arizona) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 15 rebounds for the winners and guard Martin Zeno (196-85, college: Texas Tech) chipped in 16 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists. Four Loimaan Korikonkarit players scored in double figures. Forward Damon Williams (201-73, college: Colorado St.-Pueblo, agency: Two Points) responded with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 10 rebounds and guard Kenneth Lowe (192-80, college: Purdue) scored 15 points.
Top scorers:
Nilan Bisons: J.Ivey 20+2reb+6ast, R.McDade 17+15reb+3ast, M.Zeno 16+10reb+4ast, M.Koivisto 15+3reb+3ast, C.Jones 4+1ast, M.Nuutinen 2+4reb+1ast
Pyrinto: D.Williams 16+10reb+2ast, K.Lowe 15+3reb+1ast, A.Lehto 9+4reb+1ast, O.Ahvenniemi 6+2reb, A.Nikkila 6+6reb, A.Williams 5+6reb+3ast
gschID: 175739



KORISLIIGA: Kataja and Bisons in the Finals - by Rauno Hurmalainen

Korisliiga, semi-finals, Game # 5: Bisons from Loimaa has cleared the way to the Finals. Bisons, playing the first season ever in Top League, defeated Pyrinto (Tampere) tonight 74-62 (33-26) and won by the same this series 3-2. Quarters: 15-9, 18-17, 17-17, 24-19. Visitor Pyrinto didn't win a quarter, Bisons was defending and shooting better and the hosts got more help from the American players, who scored 53 out of 72 points. The beginning of this fifth fight was very nervous. Game opening bucket was made at time 2:02, when Antero Lehto (184-G-84) made a 2-pointer assisted by Antwine Williams (192-F-75, agency: Prossin Sports Management, college: N.Colorado). Next bucket came two and half minutes later, when Jeb Ivey (190-G-80, college: Portland St.) finally made a 3-pointer at time 4:31 and Bisons was leading 3-2. Pyrinto's key player Kenneth Lowe (192-G-80, college: Purdue) got his second personal foul at time 5:41. The bench was calling and during the time Lowe was warming the bench, Bisons took a 13-point-lead (31-18). Bisons was then leading the game untill the end and American Head Coach Greg Gibson had led his team in the full house to the Finals!
Ivey netted 20 points and gave six assists for the Bisons. Ryan McDade (201-F-80, college: N.Arizona) had a double-double 17pts/15rbs and Martin Zeno (196-G-85, college: Texas Tech) added with another double-double 16pts/10rbs. Pyrinto was shooting 2/17 from behind the arc. Only two players were in double digits.
The Finals will start on Wednesday, May 2, at Joensuu: Kataja vs Bisons.
The bronze game on Thursday, May 3, in Tampere: Pyrinto vs Torpan Pojat.
Bisons - Pyrinto 74-62 (33-26). (Jeb Ivey 20/6a, Ryan McDade 17/15, Martin Zeno 16/10 - Damon Williams 16/10, Kenneth Lowe 15, Antero Lehto 9. A: 1198).


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


Tony Parker scores 28, Spurs beat Jazz in Game 1 - by Eurobasket News

Tony Parker (183-PG-82) scored 28 points and added eight assists to lead the Spurs to a 106-91 victory over Utah Sunday afternoon in Game 1 of the NBA playoffs at the AT&T Center.

The victory snapped a six-game losing streak of Game 1 losses in the Spurs most recent playoff series. And coming into Sundays game, the Spurs had won only two of their 10 most recent playoff games.

But a big effort by the Big Three help lead them to the victory. Tim Duncan (211-F/C-76, college: Wake Forest) added 17 points and 11 rebounds and Manu Ginobili added seven points in the victory.

The Spurs are 12-0 this season when Ginobili, Duncan and Parker combine for at least 50 points this season.

The Spurs are 27-6 in NBA playoff series where they won the first game.

New acquisitions Stephen Jackson accounted for 14 points and Boris Diaw (203-PF-82) scored nine for the Spurs, who claimed their 11th straight victory this season.

Paul Millsap (201-F-85, college: Louisiana Tech) led Utah with 20 points and nine rebounds and Al Jefferson added 16 points and nine rebounds.

The victory came despite an injury to Tiago Splitter (211-C/F-85, agency: Interperformances), who sustained a sprained left wrist in the second quarter and did not return. Splitter finished with four points and a rebound in seven minutes.

Courtesy of The San Antonio Express-News (via www.insidehoops.com)


Laurent Sciarra leaves Vichy - by Eurobasket News

Laurent Sciarra leaves Vichy as a Head Coach of the team. The French former National team player started the season as a Head Coach ofby JA Vichy Val d'Allier Auvergne basket (ProB) and now leaves the team.
In 2008-2009 he played for Entente Orleans 45 (ProA) and in 36 games averaged 4.9ppg, 3.5rpg, 5.3apg, 1.4spg. In 2009-2010 for Entente Orleans 45 (ProA): his stats read 4.2ppg, 2.1rpg, 4.2apg in Euroleague and in French League he averaged 3.5ppg, 2.2rpg, 5.0apg. The season 2010-2011 started for Elan Bearnais Pau-Lacq-Orthez (ProA), but left in Feb.'11. In 19 games he showed 4.8ppg, 2.6rpg, 4.7apg, 1.0spg.
As a Head Coach he finishes with Vichy on the 18th place. The French team has 7-25 record in ProB. Last night JA Vichy gave a tough game to second ranked Boulazac Basket on Saturday. The visitors from Boulazac managed to secure only one-point victory 77-76. The guests were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. Boulazac Basket made 18-of-20 free shots (90.0 percent) during the game. 24 personal fouls committed by JA Vichy helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities.


Besiktas conquer EuroChallenge 2011/2012 campaign - by Eurobasket News

FINAL EuroChallenge 2011/2012 campaign

Besiktas Milangaz- Elan Chalon 91:86

Besiktas conquer EuroChallenge 2011/2012 campaign leaving no chance in the Final game against Chalon. The Turkish favorites overcame the French side 91:86.
Besiktas Milangaz started better and dominated the first period. The Turkish team produced a 27-15 surge in the first 10 minutes. The French outfit meanwhile woke up in the second period and bounced back with 25-17 to reduce to 4 points at the halftime. Chalon continued to come closer in the third period and tied the game at 48:48. The intrigue continued in the last stanza and it was extremely hot in the court. Zoran Erceg (210-C/F-85) and David Hawkins (194-G-82, college: Temple) made it 66:59 with 7 minutes to go, while Ilian Evtimov (201-F-83, agency: Interperformances, college: N.Carolina St.) nailed three for minus 4. David Hawkins and Pops Mensah-Bonsu (206-F-83, agency: SportsTalent, college: G.Washington) gave Besiktas Milangaz 71:64 with less than 6 minutes to go, but Steed Tchicamboud (193-G-81) cut it to 71:66 midway through the quarter. Zoran Erceg however answered for all the questions in the game as he nailed three for 74:66 lead. Pops Mensah-Bonsu and Carlos Arroyo (188-G-79, college: FIU) brought 79:66 on the board as the Turkish team started to celebrate with 3 minutes to go. Alade Aminu (207-C/F-87, college: Georgia Tech) however scored four in a row for 79:70 and Carlos Arroyo nailed three for 82:70. Alade Aminu and Delaney scored five in a row for 82:75 and asked the Head Coach of Besiktas for Timeout. Pops Mensah-Bonsu and Steed Tchicamboud exchanged the shots for 84:78, while Carlos Arroyo and Blake Schilb (200-F/G-83, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices, college: Loyola, IL) made the same for 86:81 with less than a minute to play. Carlos Arroyo, Delaney, Zoran Erceg and Alade Aminu made the last shots for their teams as the board showed 91:86 on the board.
Pops Mensah-Bonsu erupted with 26 points and 20 rebounds for the winners, while Zoran Erceg followed him with massive 25 points and 15 boards. Carlos Arroyo notched 15 and David Hawkins added 13. Steed Tchicamboud ended up with 19 points in the losing effort and Alade Aminu posted 13. Blake Schilb and Ilian Evtimov followed them with 12 points each.

Besiktas Milangaz: Pops Mensah-Bonsu 26+20 rebs, Zoran Erceg 25+15 rebs, Carlos Arroyo 15, David Hawkins 13
Elan Chalon: Steed Tchicamboud 19, Alade Aminu 13, Blake Schilb 12, Ilian Evtimov 12


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

Stats Leaders - Superleague

Points Per Game
 Dime TASOVSKI
  Lirija
  (200-F-80)
  Avg: 19.2
 1. Tasovski, Lirija19.2 
 2. Tasovski, Rabotnic.17.7 
 3. Radunovic, Lirija17.7 
 4. Radulovic, Vardar17.5 
 5. Jelesijevic, Kuman.17.1 
 6. Gecevski, MZT S.16.5 
 7. Karadzovski, Torus15.9 
 8. Janjusevic, Kuman.15.3 
 9. Trajkovski, Torus15.1 
 10. Georgievski, Vard.15.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Dustin MITCHELL
  Lirija
  (206-F/C-87)
  Avg: 8.2
 1. Mitchell, Lirija8.2 
 2. Gecevski, MZT S.8.0 
 3. Reynolds, Torus S.7.6 
 4. Cekovski, MZT S.7.5 
 5. Radunovic, Lirija7.3 
 6. Nikolovski, Feni I.6.7 
 7. Jelesijevic, Kuman.6.6 
 8. Dahlman, MZT S.6.6 
 9. Mikic, Kumanovo6.6 
 10. Trajkovski, Torus6.5 
Assists Per Game
 Carlos MORBAN
  Lirija
  (187-G-82)
  Avg: 4.4
 1. Morban, Lirija4.4 
 2. Karadzovski, Torus3.8 
 3. Mijajlovic, MZT S.3.7 
 4. Petrovski, Rabotni.3.6 
 5. Kostoski, Kumanovo3.4 
 6. Tasevski, Vardar3.2 
 7. Frye, Feni Indistr.3.1 
 8. Samardziev, Feni I.3.0 
 9. Dimitrovski, Kozuv3.0 
 10. Cekovski, MZT S.2.8 
Steals Per Game
 Jarrid FRYE
  Feni Indistrija
  (194-G/F-85)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Frye, Feni Indistr.2.1 
 2. Tasovski, Rabotnic.2.0 
 3. Radunovic, Lirija1.8 
 4. Tasovski, Lirija1.5 
 5. Morban, Lirija1.4 
 6. Dimitrovski, Kozuv1.3 
 7. Tasevski, Vardar1.2 
 8. Tomasevic, Kozuv1.2 
 9. Kostoski, Kumanovo1.2 
 10. Filipovic, Lirija1.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Nemanja JELESIJEVIC
  Kumanovo
  (210-C/F-79)
  Avg: 1.4
 1. Jelesijevic, Kuman.1.4 
 2. Chappell, ABA S.1.2 
 3. Kralevski, Vardar1.1 
 4. Trajkovski, Torus1.1 
 5. Avramovski, Lirija1.0 
 6. Reynolds, Torus S.0.9 
 7. Cole, Rabotnicki0.9 
 8. Mitchell, Lirija0.7 
 9. Knezevic, Feni I.0.7 
 10. Tasovski, Rabotni.0.7 


MZT Skopje is one win away from the title - by Eurobasket News

Finals, Game 3: MZT Skopje - Feni Indistrija 84-59 (3-1)

MZT blasted Feni Industrija tonight in Skopje 84-59. It means that MZT jumped to 3-1 lead in the series and now needs just one more win for the title. The format is best-of-seven and Feni will be the host in the next meeting. The game was mostly controlled by MZT Skopje. Feni Indistrija managed to win second period 16-10. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. 26 personal fouls committed by Feni Indistrija helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was the former international power forward Gjorgi Cekovski (203-79, agency: Higher Level Sports) who had a double-double by scoring 12 points and 12 rebounds. International center Todor Gecevski (209-77, agency: Interperformances) chipped in 21 points. Four MZT Skopje players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was Serbian center Dusan Knezevic (207-80, agency: BeoExcell) who recorded 10 points and 8 rebounds and Bulgarian swingman Ivan Lilov (196-88) added 9 points and 5 rebounds respectively. Feni Indistrija's coach Emil Rajkovic gave up on the game allowing to play ten players seeing no chance for a win. MZT Skopje was the regular season champion with 22-4 record and if necessary they will host Game Five. Feni Industri is the defending champ from the last season. It is important to mention that MZT entered to this series with 1-0 due to victories in the regular season. Thus, there will be maximum six games in the Finals. Three are already played.

MZT Skopje: T.Gecevski 21+4reb, O.Stojanovski 13+2reb+4ast, N.Dahlman 13+7reb, G.Cekovski 12+12reb+2ast, C.Davis 9+3reb+2ast, I.Mijajlovic 8+3reb+6ast
Feni Indistrija: D.Sokolov 10+2reb, D.Knezevic 10+8reb+3ast, I.Lilov 9+5reb+1ast, J.Frye 6+4reb, G.Samardziev 6, D.Radulovic 5+6reb


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


Eurobasket.com All-Regionalliga South-West Awards 2011-2012 - by Moritz Korff




#s#
Ricky Easterling
Easterling


Jay Thomas
Thomas
Joseph Roberson
Roberson
Willie Whitfield
Whitfield
Robinson Louisme
Louisme
#e#1

Player of the Year: Robinson Louisme (201-F/C-84, college: Tulane) of Konstanz
Domestic Player of the Year: Jay Thomas (193-G-79) of Speyer
Bosman Player of the Year: Vildan Mitku (200-F-83) of Tuebingen
Defensive Player of the Year: Jay Thomas of Speyer
Most Improved Player of the Year: Laurence Raschka (194-F-91) of Konstanz
Newcomer of the Year: Paul Zipser (195-G-94) of Heidelberg
Coach of the Year: Marko Radulovic of Konstanz

1st Team
G: Ricky Easterling (188-G-83) of Saarlouis
G: Jay Thomas of Speyer
F: Joseph Roberson (193-F-83) of Treis-Karden
F: Willie Whitfield (198-F) of Mainz
C: Robinson Louisme (201-F/C-84) of Konstanz

2nd Team
G: Darrell Bullock (185-G, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Wells) of Voelklingen
G: Oumar Sylla (201-G/F-84, college: Richmond) of Konstanz
F: Mensah Taylor (198-F-80, college: Gardner-Webb) of Goeppingen
F: Vildan Mitku (200-F-83) of Tuebingen
C: Sebastian Riedel of Freiburg

Honorable Mention
Frederik Henningsen (197-F-88) of Konstanz
Peter Klemm (197-F-85) of Tuebingen
Elnis Prasovic (200-F-84) of Schwenningen/Karlsruhe
Marco Schlafke (185-G-82) of Stuttgart
Tobias Stoll (186-F-83, college: Cent.Washington) of Heidelberg

All-Domestic Players Team
G: Tobias Stoll (186-F-83, college: Cent.Washington) of Heidelberg
G: Jay Thomas of Speyer
F: Dominique Tholey (201-F-89) of Treis-Karden
F: Peter Klemm (197-F-85) of Tuebingen
C: Sebastian Riedel of Freiburg

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


Ahmad Smith (Kirchhein Knights) We Knew That If We Were Focused On Defense That We Would Win The Series - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Ahmad Smith (194-G-84, college: St.Bonaventure) is a 26 year old 194cm guard from Alexandria, Virginia that is currently playing for NBC (PRO B). He is very athletic, handles the ball well and is able to beat his man in one-on-one situations. Creative player offensively who has a strong drive to the basket. He is a left-handed player who plays terrific defense at/on each perimeter position. Has good body control and excellent lateral foot speed. Outstanding rebounder for his size and position at both ends of the floor. He played at St Bonaventure (NCAA) from 2002-2006. In his senior year, he averaged 15.6rpg, 3.0apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 44.2%, 3PT: 26.5%, FT: 65.6%. In 2006-2007 he played for Mardyke UCC Demons Cork (Ireland-SuperLeague): 9 games: 18.9ppg, 5.7rpg, 4.2apg, FGP: 51.6%, 3PT: 37.1%, FT: 60.8%. In 2007-2008, he came to Germany to play for SVD 49 Dortmund (Regionalliga): 6 games: 30.2ppg. In 2008-2009, he played for BSV Wulfen (Germany-Regionalliga, starting five): 23.5ppg, 10.1rpg, 6.0apg, 3PT: 35.2%. Last season, he played for Hertener Loewen (Germany-ProB, starting five): 29 games: 18.2ppg, Reb-2 (8.7rpg), Assists-1 (7.1apg), 1.2spg, FGP: 50.2%, 3PT: 34.9%, FT: 69.5%. This season, he started for s Oliver Baskets Wuerzburg (Germany-ProA): left before the season started, then moved to SVD 49 Dortmund (Germany-Regionalliga), waived in Nov.'10, in Jan.'11 signed at Nuernberger Basketball Club (Germany-ProB, starting five). Currently he is averaging 10,2ppg, 5,9rpg and 6,4apg. He spoke to eurobasket after the 76-72 win against the Gloria Giants Duesseldorf in Game three bring the team into the PRO A final.

Congrats on the 76-72 win in game 3 against the Gloria Giants Duesseldorf. Are you surprised that you were able to sweep them?

Thanks Miles, no were not surprised with the sweep we knew coming into the series if we focused on defense we would win the series.

The Kirchheim Knights seem to have really developed further in the playoffs. Has the team peaked already or will it play a notch higher in the finals?

We have been playing well since the playoffs have started. We didn't come this far just to lose in the finals we will be ready!

How important was it setting the Giants straight who the master in the house is after 32 points in the first quarter?

It was very important to start off on a good note early, and get our crowd into the game.

What was key in the crunch time for getting the win and advancing to the final?

Getting consecutive defensive stops in the 4th quarter was huge for us.

Would the Knights be in the final now hadnt Devin Uskoski stepped it up?

Devin played great this series just like he has all season for us. Everybody has stepped up their game in the playoffs, and thats why we have been successful.

Quadre Lollis might have played his last professional game at age 38. How impressive is it that a guy like that is still playing?

To be able to play at a high level at 38 is amazing.

MBC beat Crailsheim 99-95 in OT. Will that series go 5 games or will MBC wrap it up in Crailsheim?

I don't know its been a tough series so far.

Was the NBA 7 game suspension for Metta World Peace fair or should it have been more?

I thought it should of been more.

What has been the worst cheap shot foul that you have ever seen in the NBA?

The Ron Artest foul on James Harden was awful. Sorry I can't call him Metta lol

What is your alltime favorite movie?

Sandlot.

Thanks Ahmad for the chat


Jason Boone (s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg) Defense Is About Hustle And Physicality And We Do That Better Than Any Other Team In The League - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Jason Boone (198-F/C-85, college: New York U.) is a 26 year old 198cm power forward/center from Sugar Loaf, New York. He is playing his first season with the s. Oliver Baskets Wurzburg and his fourth in the Beko BBL. He played three seasons for BG Goettingen. He played at New York University (NCAA 3) from 2003-2007. In his senior year, he played 28 games averaging 14.1ppg, 9.6rpg, 2.4bpg, 2.9apg, FG: 63.0%, FT: 64.3%. Three seasons ago, he played at Bernau (Regionalliga) before making the jump up three leagues to MEG Goettingen. In 2008-2009, he averaged 4.4ppg, 4.0rpg, FG: 53.7. In 2009-2010, he won the Eurochallenge playing EuroChallenge: 16 games: 10.7ppg, 6.8rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 59.6%, FT: 53.8%; German League: 35 games: 9.1ppg, 6.1rpg, FGP: 60.3%, FT: 55.9%. Last season with BG Goettingen he played 37 games: 8.5ppg, 5.9rpg, FGP: 59.8%, FT: 34.9%; EuroCup: 14 games: 9.1ppg, 6.2rpg, Blocks-4 (1.1bpg), FGP: 59.8%, FT: 36.0%. Jason spoke to Eurobasket before the game against EnBW Ludwigsburg April 28th.

How much stronger is EnBW Ludwigsburg than their weak 15th place standing?


Ludwigsburg is a tough team that has dealt with some injuries this season. I also think that their arena and fans are some of the best in the league. With their back up against the wall, they really came to play last weekend.

What has been the main focus in practice this week leading up to the Ulm game?


With such a powerfully explosive offense like Ulm's our main focus was on getting stops. If we keep the game in the 50's and 60's we feel it's to our advantage. When we get up to the 90's and 100's they will have the upper hand especially at home.

The next game is against ratiopharm Ulm. What is your memory of the exciting 61-59 win at home?


It was a big win for us, we had just beaten Bonn (who was #1 at the time) at home the game before..and then had a chance to beat Ulm (the new #1 team). Obviously it was early but it did wonders for our confidence.

Can we await a defensive battle in Ulm like you had in Wurzburg? This game should be a great preparation game for the playoffs.

I've been excited to get to Ulm's arena all season, I've heard it's a wonderful facility, and it's always exciting to play against a great team. If it ends up being a preview for the playoffs then we want to send a message early.

What is your opionion of how the s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg have been labeled a dirty team this season?


Who have you heard that from? I would argue that people that say that don't know much about basketball. Defense is about hustle and physicality. And I feel we do that better than any other team in the league. But no one on our team plays dirty.

Was the seven game suspension for Metta World Peace enough for his elbow on James Harden or too lenient?


Seven games seems like a lot. But what I don't like is that no one on the Thunder did anything about it. Granted, I wouldn't want to fight Ron Artest, but someone needed to do something.

What remains the most violent blow that you have ever seen in the NBA in the last years?

Most recently Bynum's hit on Barea, to me, that seemed 'dirty.' But the brawl at the Palace between Ron Artest and the Pistons will probably still go down as one of the worse ever.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?


The 2012 action packed crime drama Contraband with Mark Wahlberg.

Thanks Jason for the chat.




John Bynum (TBB Trier) I Expected A Lot More This Season After The Success We Had The Year Before - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

John Bynum (191-G-78, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Metro St.) is a 34 year old 191 cm guard from Visalia California that will commence his second season with TBB Trier. He is a good fighter, fast and good in offensive playing. He is great athlete who shoot the ball with consistency from 3 and finish with authority on the break. He is a tremendous defender on the ball. He played college basketball at College of the Sequoias Junior College:from 1996-1998 and then transferred to Metropolitan St. (NCAA2): and played there from 1998-2000. He started his professional basketball career in 2001 in the Uk for the Solent Stars (United Kingdom-NBLConf): 31 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assist. In 2002-2003, came his first tour of duty in Germany for BSG Grevenbroich (Germany-Regionalliga): 24.7ppg, 9.2rpg, 6.7apg, 3.5spg. In 2003-2004, he played for the Ulriken Eagles (Norway-BNLO): Regular Season: 14 games: 20,1ppg, 8,1rpg, 2,5apg, 2,9spg, 0,4bpg.In 2004-2005, he was back in Germany playing for BSG Grevenbroich (Germany-2. can Bundesliga): 30 games: Score-5 (26.0ppg), 7.7rpg, Ast-4 (5.4apg), 1.7spg, 2FGP: 55.5%, 3FGP: 33.3%, FT: 63.6%. In 2005-2006, he played for InterCollege Etha Engomis (Cyprus-A1): only pre-season, then joined COOCOON Baskets Weiden (Germany-2.Bundesliga, starting five): 8 games: 15.6ppg, 5.9rpg, 2.0apg, 1.6spg, 2FGP: 51%, left in Jan.'06 and later that month signed at Eisbaeren Bremerhaven (Germany-1.Bundesliga): 21 games: 7.8ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.8apg, 2FGP: 56.5%. In 2006-2007, he played for the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven (Germany-1.Bundesliga): 31 games: 5.7ppg, 2.0rpg, 2.2apg, 2FGP: 43.1%, 3FGP: 25.0%, FT: 55.9%. In 2007-2008, he played for USC Heidelberg (Germany-ProA, starting five): 14 games: 14.4ppg, 4.4rpg, Assists-5 (4.6apg), 2.3spg, 2FGP: 54%, 3FGP: 27.3%, FT: 58.5%, left in Jan.'08 due to shoulder injury, in Feb.'08 moved to Digibu Baskets Paderborn (Germany-1.Bundesliga, starting five): 13 games: 6.3ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.4apg, 2FGP: 51.8%, 3PT: 14.3%, FT: 70.0%. In 2009-2010, he played in the PRO A for Proveo Merlins Crailsheim (Germany-ProA, starting five): 27 games: 16.9ppg, 7.1rpg, Assists-3 (5.4apg), 1.1spg, FGP: 51.8%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 62.8%. Last season with TBB Trier, he played 35 games: 6.9ppg, 3.7rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 47.9%, 3PT: 24.0%, FT: 64.3%. He sat down with eurobasket before the last regular season game against BG Goettingen.

One last game to go in the regular season against BG Goettingen. How happy are you that the season is finally ending?


I wouldn't say I am happy that the season is over but at the same time it hasn't been the season I saw myself being a part of and I am very disappointed in the way the season turned out because I expected a lot more This season after the success we had the year before.

If you could ask God how to cure this seasons TBB Trier disease of losing close games what would you ask him?


Well there are a lot of things that I could ask for and a lot of things that uncurable for sure. But one thing I would definitely ask for was believing. I felt that we lacked the confidence of coming back when we got down. Anytime we got down in a game I don't ever think we had that urgency or we believed that we could come back and win a close game.


You played in the last loss in Ulm. How are you feeling again physically??

I am fine everything is back to normal and it felt good being back on the court even if I didn't play as much as I wanted to.

What is your memory of the 70-61 win in Goettingen this season?


I just remember us getting a lead early and holding them off later in the game. It was real early in the season and they have made some changes since that first time we saw them.


BG Goettingen have their last game in the Beko BBL before going down and will be motivated to end their run in the league with a win. What will be key in getting the win?


I just think we have to play hard and believe that we can win. We have two sides to this team and if we go out and play with confidence then I believe we should get the result we want.

Was the seven game suspension for Metta World Peace enough for his elbow on James Harden or too lenient?


I really thought he deserved more. If Andrew Bynum got five games for that action against JJ Barea then Meta World Peace deserved at least a ten game suspension.

What remains the most vioelnt blow that you have ever seen in the NBA in the last years?

I haven't saw too many but one that I did like was when Chris child's socked Kobe in his jaw, that was my favorite one. Lol

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?


Thousand words with Eddie Murphy

Thanks John for the chat.


German BBL round 34 best performance: Yassin Idbihi - by Eurobasket News

Naturalized Moroccan forward Yassin Idbihi (208-F-83) had a great game in the last round for ALBA, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 34.
The 28-year old player had a double-double of 18 points and 12 rebounds, while his team beat NY Phantoms (#8, 17-16) 79-64. ALBA maintains the 3rd position in Moroccan BBL. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. ALBA will need more victories to improve their 26-8 record. It's Idbihi's second year at ALBA and it's hard to imagine this team without him. Yassin Idbihi averages this season 8.5ppg.

The second best player in last round's games was 26-year old former international forward Philip Zwiener (198-F-85) of TBB Trier. Zwiener had a very good evening with a double-double of 22 points and 10 rebounds. It was enough for TBB Trier to edge the lower-ranked Goettingen (#18, 4-30) 85-83. The game was between two teams which are definitely not main contenders for the title. TBB Trier keeps 14th position. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 11-23 record. Zwiener is well-known at TBB Trier and is a proven leader in his second season with the team.

Third on the list of top players last round was American forward Anthony Leon Tucker (198-F-85) of league's top team Brose Baskets. Tucker scored 25 points and grabbed eleven rebounds (!!!). He was a key player of Brose Baskets, leading his team to a 102-65 easy win against the lower-ranked Bayreuth (#13, 12-22). Brose Baskets confirms their top position in the standings Tucker has a great season in Germany. After 34 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 15.6ppg (2nd best) and rebounds with 7.0rpg (7th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Chevon Troutman (202-F-81) of B.Muenchen - 18 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists
5. Zygimantas Jonusas (200-F-82) of Phoenix Hagen - 23 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Tony Gaffney (204-F-84) of Telekom Baskets - 14 points, 12 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Chris Ensminger (209-C-73) of Telekom Baskets - 23 points and 5 rebounds
8. Bernd Kruel (210-C/F-76) of Phoenix Hagen - 20 points and 3 rebounds
9. Vitalis Chikoko (207-F/C-91) of Goettingen - 20 points and 9 rebounds
10. Jermareo Davidson (208-F-84) of Fraport SKY - 18 points and 8 rebounds

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


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

Standings - Eredivisie

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

Second Stage: Round 5

A

Apr. 29: Den Bosch - Leiden 89-65

B

Apr. 28: Nijmegen - Groningen 86-77

Second Stage: Round 6

A

May. 1: Leiden - Leeuwarden

B

May. 1: Groningen - Zwolle


Eredivisie: Round 5 of the second stage - by Eurobasket News

There will be only one (last) round of the Second Stage in Eredivisie.

Group A
Den Bosch - Leiden 89-65
Den Bosch led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They made 24-of-29 free shots (82.8 percent) during the game. Den Bosch outrebounded Leiden 32-21 including 24 on the defensive glass. 27 personal fouls committed by Leiden helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American point guard Frank Turner (178-88, college: Canisius, agency: Court Side) stepped up and scored 22 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners and the former international forward Kees Akerboom (200-83, agency: Court Side) chipped in 19 points. Five Den Bosch players scored in double figures. Canadian forward Jevohn Shepherd (196-86, college: Michigan) responded with 18 points and American forward Seamus Boxley (201-82, college: Portland St., agency: Prossin Sports Management) scored 9 points (was perfect 7-for-7 from the free throw line). Leiden's coach Toon Van Helfteren gave up on the game allowing to play ten players seeing no chance for a win. Den Bosch maintains second place in Group A with 2-2 record. Defending champion Leiden still keeps top position with one game lost (2-1). In the next round Leiden will play at home against Leeuwarden.
Top scorers:
Den Bosch: F.Turner 22+6reb+4ast, K.Akerboom 19+4reb+1ast, P.Van Paassen 14+3reb, D.Gonzalvez 11+4reb+2ast, S.Wessels 11+5reb+2ast, R.Jansen 7+1reb+6ast
Leiden: J.Shepherd 18+2reb, S.Boxley 9+3reb+1ast, W.de Jong 9+2reb, T.Jackson 9+3reb, M.Kherrazi 6+1reb, S.Cunningham 3+1reb
gschID: 174858


Group B
Nijmegen - Groningen 86-77
The hosts were already 12 points ahead after 3 quarters before a 23-20 Groningen's run in the last quarter cut the lead to 86-77 at the end of the game. Strangely Groningen outrebounded Nijmegen 42-29 including 29 on the defensive glass. American forward Lucas Hargrove (198-88, college: Auburn) nailed 21 points and 7 rebounds for the winning side and the former international center Marcel Aarts (213-83, agency: R.H.Consultancy) accounted for 15 points. Five Nijmegen players scored in double figures. American guard Jason Dourisseau (196-83, college: Nebraska) came up with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 12 rebounds and the other American import power forward Avis Wyatt (211-84, college: Virginia St.) added 16 points and 7 rebounds respectively for Groningen in the defeat. Groningen's coach Hakim Salem rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Nijmegen ended with 1-3 record in Group B. Groningen at the other side still keeps top position with one game lost (2-1). They share it with Zwolle. Groningen will play at home against Zwolle in the battle for the first place.
Top scorers:
Nijmegen: L.Hargrove 21+7reb+2ast, M.Aarts 15+3reb+1ast, C.Osaikhwuwuomwam 12+5reb+1ast, H.Bekkering 11+3reb, M.Acker 10+3reb+4ast, M.Humphrey 8+2reb+3ast
Groningen: A.Wyatt 16+7reb+1ast, J.Dourisseau 16+12reb+2ast, D.Bell 15+1reb+4ast, A.Wesby 8+7reb+1ast, K.McCleery 8+2reb, S.de Randamie 6+3reb+2ast



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

A Division Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Justin INGRAM
  FS Debre.
  (185-PG-85)
  Avg: 24.6
 1. Ingram, FS Debre.24.6 
 2. Ciric, PVSK P.22.0 
 3. Timberlake, Falco-.21.2 
 4. Raivio, Kaposvari21.1 
 5. Austin, Jaszberenyi20.8 
 6. Ivosev, Szedeak20.4 
 7. Schachtner, FS Deb.20.1 
 8. Doyne, PVSK P.20.1 
 9. Levy, Szedeak19.1 
 10. Dramicanin, Jaszb.18.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Miklos SZABO
  FS Debrecen
  (206-F/C-86)
  Avg: 10.4
 1. Szabo, FS Debrecen10.4 
 2. Miskovic, Marso N.9.6 
 3. Fey, Kaposvari9.1 
 4. Pantelic, Falco-Sz.8.9 
 5. Raivio, Kaposvari8.7 
 6. Ivosev, Szedeak8.6 
 7. Townes, Kormend8.6 
 8. Bader, Szolnok8.5 
 9. Austin, Jaszberenyi8.1 
 10. Egemonye, Soproni8.1 
Assists Per Game
 Laszlo KALMAN
  Falco-Sz.
  (186-G-72)
  Avg: 6.6
 1. Kalman, Falco-Sz.6.6 
 2. Wilson, Kaposvari5.9 
 3. Simon, Albacomp5.8 
 4. Ingram, FS Debre.5.7 
 5. Trotter, Szolnok5.6 
 6. Williams, Atomeromu5.5 
 7. Fekete, Marso N.4.6 
 8. Thomas, Soproni4.5 
 9. Drahos, Szedeak4.3 
 10. Hodges, Jaszbere.4.0 
Steals Per Game
 Stefan FEKETE
  Marso N.
  (188-G-86)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. Fekete, Marso N.2.7 
 2. Drahos, Szedeak2.6 
 3. Austin, Jaszberenyi2.5 
 4. Trotter, Szolnok2.4 
 5. Ingram, FS Debre.2.4 
 6. Raivio, Kaposvari2.3 
 7. Wittmann, Kecsk.2.3 
 8. Perine, ZTE K.2.2 
 9. Toth, PVSK P.2.2 
 10. Ivosev, Szedeak2.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Darian TOWNES
  Kormend
  (208-F/C-84)
  Avg: 2
 1. Townes, Kormend2.0 
 2. Pantelic, Falco-Sz.1.6 
 3. Keller, Albacomp1.4 
 4. Egemonye, Soproni1.0 
 5. Levy, Szedeak1.0 
 6. Ivosev, Szedeak0.9 
 7. Chism, Albacomp0.9 
 8. Morgen, Atomeromu0.9 
 9. Miskovic, Marso N.0.8 
 10. Juhos, Albacomp0.8 


Jefferson brings Triumph EuroChallenge Bronze - by Eurobasket News

Szolnoki Olaj- Triumph Lyubertsy 87:94

Davon Jefferson (204-F-86, college: USC) brings Triumph EuroChallenge Bronze as the Russian team won the game for the third place. Triumph edged the hosts 94:87 as three players scored more than 20 points for the winners.
Szolnoki Olaj started better and Obie Trotter (186-PG-84, agency: Court Side, college: Alabama A&M) gave them 7:2 in the opening tip. Fodor later scored for 27:21 and Brandon Gay (203-F-82, agency: Edge Sports, college: San Diego) opened the second frame for 8-point deficit. Davon Jefferson however tied the game at 33:33 and Sergey Karasev (201-F-93) brought the Russian team 43:39 advantage. The Hungarian team took the lead back in the third period when Obie Trotter scored for 62:60. Julien Mills (193-G/F-85, college: Ball St.) and Marton Bader (212-C-80, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) closed the third quarter at 66:61, but the victory went away from the hosts. It was Davon Jefferson and Co to produce a massive last period to take the third place in 2011/2012 season. Sergey Karasev made four free throws at the end and Davon Jefferson closed the game at 94:87.
Davon Jefferson erupted with 37 points and 10 rebounds. Sergey Karasev notched 25, while Kyle Landry (207-C/F-86, college: N.Arizona) posted 20. Obie Trotter exploded with 33 points for the home side and Julien Mills collected 19 points and 12 rebounds. Brandon Gay nailed 11, while Marton Bader had 9 points and 10 rebounds.

Szolnoki Olaj: Obie Trotter 33, Julien Mills 19+12 rebs, Brandon Gay 11, Marton Bader 9+10 rebs
Triumph Lyubertsy: Davon Jefferson 37+10 rebs, Sergey Karasev 25, Kyle Landry 20


Falco-Szova completes Semifinals picture - by Eurobasket News

Quarterfinals, Game 5: Falco-Szova - Soproni 79-76 (3-2)

Game Five of the Playoff Quarterfinals between Falco-Szova and Soproni was played last night. The home squad celebrated 79-76 victory and booked a spot for the Semis. There, Falco will meet Kormend and it will be another best-of-five series. First game is scheduled May 4. Falco was the regular season champion so they will have a home court advantage in this series. Soproni trailed by 11 points after 3 quarters before a 25-17 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 76-79 at the end of the game. 24 personal fouls committed by Soproni helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was American guard Chad Timberlake (194-G-84, college: Fair Dickinson) who scored 19 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Serbian forward Djordje Pantelic (204-F-84) chipped in 16 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Four Falco-Szova players scored in double figures. American guard Dontay Thomas (186-G-84, college: La Salle) produced 28 points and the other American import guard Janou Rubin (193-G-82, agency: Two Points, college: UCLA) 16 points respectively for the guests. Soproni's coach Robert Meszlenyi rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. The other Semifinals pair is Albacomp - Szolnok.

Falco-Szova: C.Timberlake 19+5reb+4ast, T.Will 17+5reb+1ast, D.Pantelic 16+6reb+4ast, Z.Szabo 10+6reb+2ast, L.Simon 9+3reb+2ast, T.Harazin 6+1reb+1ast
Soproni: D.Thomas 28+3reb+3ast, J.Rubin 16+3reb+1ast, A.Molnar 16+2reb+1ast, B.Egemonye 8+7reb, P.Lakatos 3+1reb, F.Boldizsar 3+3reb+2ast


*****************************************************
  IBA   

Standings

IBA Standings
 1. Kankakee S. 9-1 
 2. Albany L. 8-4 
 3. Gary Splash 8-4 
 4. Chicago R. 7-1 
 5. Lake County S. 4-6 
 6. Lansing C. 4-6 
 7. Kenosha B. 3-7 
 8. St.Louis T. 1-1 
 9. Battle Creek K. 1-6 
 10. L.Angeles L. 0-0 
 11. Rockford RD 0-0 
 12. Springfield E. 0-7 

Regular Season: Round 16

Apr. 28: Albany L. - Kankakee S. 140-144
Apr. 28: Kenosha B. - St.Louis T. 126-108

Regular Season: Round 18

May. 3: Kankakee S. - Chicago R.
May. 3: Lake County S. - Kenosha B.


Soldiers hand Albany first two losses of season - by Gianni Pascucci

The Kankakee County Soldiers knocked off the Albany Legends 153-148 on friday night at Christian Brothers Academy. The Soldiers would have the lead at the end of the first quarter and would not surrender that lead until Emanuel Mayben (6'2''-G-87, college: Binghamton) tied the score with 11.6 seconds remaining in regulation on a running lay in. The Soldiers would have one last chance in regulation but a last second shot by Ryan Edwards (6'5''-F-83, college: Missouri Baptist) was off the mark. Kankakee would score on their first possession of the overtime and never look back for their sixth win on the season. Albany was handed its first loss in its eighth contest of the season.
Kankakee was led by Billy Rush (6'7''-G/F-88, agency: VVG Sports, college: Robert Morris) who scored a game high 52 points to go along with 12 rebounds for the double-double. IBA leading scorer Ryan Edwards added 34 points to go with 8 rebounds and 5 assists. Stan Chismark (6'5''-F-84, college: Olivet Nazarene) performed for 21 pts and 10 rebs.
The Legends got a career high 50 points from Mayben who shot nearly 50% from the field. He would add 14 assists and 6 rebounds. Tadre Sheppard (6'6''-F, college: Cent.Arkansas) added 42 points with sparkling 78% from the field. Sheppard also had 9 rebounds for the Legends.
The night after, Kankakee County won again over the Legends, and the Soldiers came back from a 17 point deficit in the first half to win, this time 144-140, in overtime for the second consecutive night. Kankakees comeback was led by Ryan Edwards who scored a game high 51 points, 38 of which would come in the second half. Edwards hit two key three pointers in the final minute of overtime at the 57 second mark and 27.8 second mark to secure the victory. Anthony Kyle (5'9''-PG-81, college: Miles) added 35 pts and 8 assists for the Soldiers, Billy Rush scored 16 points and grabbed 11 rebounds.
The Albany Legends were led by Lloyd Johnson (5'11''-G-85) who scored 40 points, pulled down 9 rebounds, and dished out 5 assists. Emanuel Mayben added 31 pts and 7 assists, Tadre Sheppard contrinuted with 26 pts and 12 rebs.


*****************************************************
  IBL   

Standings

IBL Standings
Branding
 1. Jersey G-F 0-0 
 2. Yamhill H. 0-0 
 3. Orlando V. 0-2 
Continental
 1. Bellingham S. 2-1 
 2. Vancouver V. 1-0 
 3. Olympia R. 1-1 
International
 1. Edmonton E. 2-0 
 2. Nippon T. 0-0 
 3. Portland C. 0-2 
Travel Team
 1. S. Soldiers 1-1 
 2. Los Angeles 0-0 
 3. W.Coast H. 0-0 

Regular Season: Round 2

Apr. 27: Orlando V. - Edmonton E. 97-112
Apr. 28: Portland C. - Olympia R. 127-138
Apr. 28: Vancouver V. - S. Soldiers 113-112
Apr. 27: Bellingham S. - Portland C. 112-100
Apr. 28: Orlando V. - Edmonton E. 108-110

Regular Season: Round 3

May. 1: Olympia R. - Vancouver V.
May. 3: Olympia R. - Portland C.
May. 4: Vancouver V. - Olympia R.
May. 4: Orlando V. - Bellingham S.
May. 4: Edmonton E. - Jersey G-F



*****************************************************
  INDONESIA   

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Yanuar DWI PRIASMORO
  Bima S.
  (178-SG-89)
  Avg: 16.5
 1. Dwi Priasmor., Bim.16.5 
 2. Ferdiansyah, Stadi.15.0 
 3. Wisnu, Satria Muda14.1 
 4. Nagata, Pacific13.7 
 5. Rizky Ardian., Bim.13.4 
 6. Sapto, Muba H.12.9 
 7. Ahmad, Satria Muda11.7 
 8. Pamungkas, Satya11.4 
 9. Prawiro, Aspac11.4 
 10. Chandra, Pelita J.11.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Galank GUNAWAN
  Satria M.
  (194-PF-87)
  Avg: 10.3
 1. Gunawan, Satria M.10.3 
 2. Regowo, Aspac8.8 
 3. Thoyib, Aspac8.2 
 4. Heryadi, Muba H.7.8 
 5. Yanto, NSH G.7.1 
 6. Sitepu, Satria M.7.0 
 7. Rizky Ardian., Bim.6.9 
 8. Nasution, Satya W.6.6 
 9. Wuwungan, Satya W.6.6 
 10. Wisnu, Satria Muda6.4 
Assists Per Game
 Denny SARTIKA
  Bima Sakti
  (175-PG-80)
  Avg: 4.4
 1. Sartika, Bima Sakti4.4 
 2. Gerungan, Aspac3.8 
 3. Purwanto, Pelita J.3.5 
 4. Muharri, CLS K.3.5 
 5. Widyanto, Pacifi.3.3 
 6. Yusran, Stadium3.0 
 7. Husnuzan, NSH G.2.8 
 8. Ahmad, Satria Muda2.6 
 9. Wisnu, Satria Muda2.4 
 10. Wijaya, Garuda2.4 
Steals Per Game
 Dimaz MUHARRI
  CLS K.
  (181-PG-85)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Muharri, CLS K.2.8 
 2. Purwanto, Pelita J.2.7 
 3. Sartika, Bima Sakti2.4 
 4. Poedjakesuma, Peli.2.3 
 5. Wijaya, Garuda2.2 
 6. Ferdiansyah, Stadi.2.2 
 7. Ahmad, Satria Muda2.0 
 8. Sapto, Muba H.2.0 
 9. Uniputty, Comfor.2.0 
 10. Sunarya, Muba H.1.9 
Blocks Per Game
 R RUSLAN
  Stadium .
  (197-C-89)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Ruslan, Stadium2.5 
 2. Thoyib, Aspac2.3 
 3. Sitepu, Satria M.2.0 
 4. Arizki, Aspac1.6 
 5. Gunawan, Satya W.1.6 
 6. Indrawan, Pelita J.1.3 
 7. Damanik, NSH G.1.2 
 8. Teguh, Muba H.1.2 
 9. Listiyono, Pacifi.1.1 
 10. Sasmito, Pacific1.0 


Satria Muda celebrate NBL title - by Eurobasket News

Satria Muda - Aspac 59:42

Another glorious NBL season for Satria Muda. They defeated Dell Aspac to clinch the sixth straight title tonight. Arki Wisnu (187-G-88) stepped up with 17 points to pace Satria Muda in the Grand Final.
Satria Muda gained a narrow 11:8 lead at the end of a low-scoring first period. Satria Muda increased the tempo in the second quarter. They stretched the margin to as many as 8 points at the interval 28:20. Satria Muda kept Aspac under a great defensive pressure throughout the third quarter. They piled up a 10-point lead at the final break 41:31. Aspac never recovered fully as they scored just 11 points in the fourth quarter and had to surrender at the end. Firdaus Julius Achmad (179-PG-87) posted 12 points, while Bonanza Siregar (192-SF-87) contributed 8 points for the champions. Oki Wira Sanjaya (190-G-89) answered with 13 points for Aspac. Xaverius Prawiro (184-G/F-86) produced 10 points in defeat.

Satria Muda: Arki Wisnu 17, Firdaus Julius Achmad 12, Bonanza Siregar 8
Aspac: Oki Wira Sanjaya 13, Xaverius Prawiro 10


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


Under 16 International and Inter Area championships results - by Patrick Maher

International Results

Saturday, April 28th (National Basketball Arena)

STUART ROBBINS INTERNATIONAL 2012
Ireland 1996 Cadet 94 (53) (Gary Barron 19, Oisin Kerlin 18, Jordan McClelland 13) Wales 1996 Cadet 37 (13) (Liam Jones 10, Arwel Goulbourne 9, Connor Hetherton 6)

Saturday, April 28th (Greendale Gym)

Ireland U15 Cadets 97 (53) (Jordan Blount 19, Shane McCann 16, Greg Forde 12, Martin Neary 12) Wales U15 Cadets 18 (10) (Kieran Highgate 7, Joe Parkinson 4, Aled Rees 4)

Ireland U15 Cadets 87 (41) (Stephen O'Hanlon 17, Divin Matabisi 16, Adam Reihill 12) Wales U15 Cadets 11 (6) (T Trotman 5, Aled Rees 2, Joe Parkinson 2)

Sunday, April 29th (Greendale Gym)

Ireland U16 Cadets 47 (20) (Sean Flood 16, Oisin Kerlin 8, Gary Barron 7, Aaron Whelan 7) Wales U16 Cadets 20 (11) (Liam Jones 11, Arwel Goulbourne 4, Connor Hetherton 3)

Ireland U16 Cadets 62 (31) (Darragh Mulkerrins 16, Aaron Whelan 13, Stephen Ingle 10) Wales U15 Cadets 10 (10) (Conor Easter 6, Kieran Highgate 2, Matthew Roberts 2)

Ireland U16 Cadets 80 (52) (Sean Flood 24, Oisin Kerlin 12, Gary Barron 10) Wales U16 Cadets 16 (8) (Liam Jones 5, Arwel Goulbourne 4)

National Area Intermediate Championships

Men's Shield Final
Midlands Men 34 (18) (Kevin Donoughue 14, Conor Vandendries 7, David Glynn 6)) North East Men 31 (16) (Evaldes Sudzius 12, Eoin MacSweeney 6, Shane Smith 5)

Mens Cup Final
BNI Men 57 (31) (Darryl Shazier 24, Girt Celms 7, Arnas Grevilas 7) v Cork Men 48 (30) (Emmett Murphy 9, Paul ODriscoll 8, Ronan OSullivan 8)

Courtesy Shane Whelan .... www.basketballireland.ie

...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Davidison North Carolina Head Coach Bob Mc Killop will visit Ireland again this summer for a clinic.I had the pleasure of listening in to a clinic Coach Mc Killop did at the University of Limerick some years ago and found it very positive learning experience and can highly reccomend it as an opportunity to experience what it takes to run a top level NCAA Div 1 program.More information at www.basketballireland.ie


*****************************************************
  ISRAEL   

Loto League Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Adrian BANKS
  Elitzur .
  (191-G-86)
  Avg: 21.5
 1. Banks, Elitzur21.5 
 2. Landesberg, Macca.20.7 
 3. Carter, Bnei H.20.7 
 4. Crawford, Maccab.19.7 
 5. Lewis, Hapoel Holon19.3 
 6. Dunn, Bnei Hashar.18.2 
 7. Travis, Galil Gilb.18.1 
 8. Asbury, Elitzur18.0 
 9. Duncan, Maccabi17.4 
 10. Carter, Maccabi17.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Isaac ROSEFELT
  Bnei H.
  (205-C/F-85)
  Avg: 9.3
 1. Rosefelt, Bnei H.9.3 
 2. Dunston, Hapoel H.9.3 
 3. Duncan, Maccabi8.6 
 4. Bowman, Maccabi8.3 
 5. Tyus, Maccabi8.3 
 6. Asbury, Elitzur7.6 
 7. Uter, Maccabi7.4 
 8. Killingswort., Iro.7.3 
 9. Kitchen, Maccabi7.1 
 10. Dowell, B.C. H.7.1 
Assists Per Game
 Moran ROTH
  Hapoel Holon
  (183-PG-82)
  Avg: 7.9
 1. Roth, Hapoel Holon7.9 
 2. Tapiro, Maccabi7.4 
 3. Carter, Bnei H.7.1 
 4. Thomas, Galil Gilb.4.8 
 5. Mitchell, Ironi A.4.8 
 6. Lifshitz, Elitzu.4.7 
 7. Ohayon, Maccabi4.7 
 8. Naimy, Hapoel J-M4.3 
 9. Delaney, B.C. H.4.3 
 10. Limonad, Ironi A.4.2 
Steals Per Game
 Eric CAMPBELL
  Elitzu.
  (199-F-76)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Campbell, Elitzu.1.9 
 2. Yavzuri, Galil Gil.1.8 
 3. Ben-Chimol, Maccab.1.8 
 4. Kitchen, Maccabi1.8 
 5. Lifshitz, Elitzu.1.8 
 6. Limonad, Ironi A.1.8 
 7. Mitchell, Ironi A.1.7 
 8. Uter, Maccabi1.7 
 9. Skinn, Ironi Ashke.1.7 
 10. Berkowitz, Ironi1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Shawn JAMES
  Maccabi T-A
  (208-C-83)
  Avg: 2
 1. James, Maccabi T-A2.0 
 2. Dunston, Hapoel H.1.8 
 3. Uter, Maccabi1.5 
 4. Tyus, Maccabi1.4 
 5. Hendrix, Maccabi1.3 
 6. Randle, Hapoel J-M1.2 
 7. Campbell, Elitzu.1.0 
 8. Rosefelt, Bnei H.1.0 
 9. Sullivan, Hapoel H.1.0 
 10. Wilkerson, Maccab.0.9 


Habikaa to Undergo Playoffs Without Paul Delaney - by David Pick

B.C. Habikaa, who battles powerhouse Maccabi Tel-Aviv on Wednesday in Game 1 of their first round best-of-five playoffs series, will do so without its All-Star Guard Paul Delaney.

Delaney, who led Habikaa to last season's Division 2 title and signed an extension for the current one, was carrying what would reveal to be a tendon rupture in the finger of his shooting hand. Despite difficulties, Delaney chose to play with the pain and help his team secure the league's 8th seed.

Delaney's expected to return to the United States tomorrow for medical treatment and will officially be out for the rest of the season.

Until his injury, he'd prove to be one of the league's toughest and fastest scorers, averaging 16.8 points, 3.8 rebounds and 4.4 dimes per game. Let it be noted that Delaney also led the league in free throw shooting percentages with 87.6%.




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

Standings - SerieA

SerieA Standings
 1. Montepaschi 23-7 
 2. Bennet Cantu 20-10 
 3. Armani Mit 20-10 
 4. Banco di Sard. 18-12 
 5. Scavolini PS 18-12 
 6. CS Bologna 18-12 
 7. Umana Venezia 17-13 
 8. Cimberio VA 16-14 
 9. Sidigas AV 13-17 
 10. Benetton TV 13-17 
 11. Vanoli CR 13-18 
 12. Acea Roma 13-18 
 13. Fabi Shoes 12-18 
 14. Otto Caserta 12-18 
 15. Angelico BI 12-18 
 16. Banca Tercas 11-19 
 17. Novipiu CM 7-23 

Regular Season: Round 32

Apr. 29: Fabi Shoes - Otto Caserta 96-85
Apr. 29: Montepaschi - Banco di Sard. 92-85
Apr. 29: Armani Mit - Banca Tercas 83-64
Apr. 29: Cimberio VA - Vanoli CR 78-66
Apr. 29: Angelico BI - Bennet Cantu 76-77
Apr. 29: CS Bologna - Scavolini PS 73-64
Apr. 29: Acea Roma - Novipiu CM 70-76
Apr. 29: Umana Venezia - Benetton TV 61-72

Regular Season: Round 33

May. 2: Benetton TV - Armani Mit
May. 2: Sidigas AV - Cimberio VA
May. 2: Montepaschi - CS Bologna
May. 2: Scavolini PS - Acea Roma
May. 2: Angelico BI - Otto Caserta
May. 2: Bennet Cantu - Fabi Shoes
May. 2: Banca Tercas - Novipiu CM
May. 2: Banco di Sard. - Umana Venezia


Stats Leaders - SerieA

Points Per Game
 Andre SMITH
  Otto C.
  (203-F-85)
  Avg: 18.4
 1. Smith, Otto C.18.4 
 2. Coleman, Angelico.18.0 
 3. White, Scavolin.17.1 
 4. Diener, Banco d.16.8 
 5. Dean, Sidigas AV16.3 
 6. Shakur, Novipiu CM16.0 
 7. Hickman, Scavolin.16.0 
 8. Pullen, Angelico BI15.9 
 9. Green, Sidigas AV15.6 
 10. Tucker, Acea Roma15.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Viktor SANIKIDZE
  CS Bo.
  (203-F-86)
  Avg: 10.7
 1. Sanikidze, CS Bo.10.7 
 2. Johnson, Sidigas9.8 
 3. Ivanov, Fabi Shoes8.0 
 4. Smith, Otto C.7.7 
 5. Brunner, Fabi Shoes7.6 
 6. Jones, Scavolini PS7.5 
 7. Chiotti, Novip.7.1 
 8. Gigli, CS Bologna7.1 
 9. Miralles, Angelico.6.9 
 10. Brunner, Bennet C.6.6 
Assists Per Game
 Marques GREEN
  Sidigas AV
  (167-PG-82)
  Avg: 6.2
 1. Green, Sidigas AV6.2 
 2. Diener, Banco d.5.4 
 3. Cook, Armani Mit5.0 
 4. Collins, Otto Case.5.0 
 5. Shakur, Novipiu CM4.3 
 6. Poeta, CS Bologna3.9 
 7. Mekel, Benetton TV3.7 
 8. Stipcevic, Cimberi.3.6 
 9. Pullen, Angelico BI3.4 
 10. McCalebb, Montep.3.3 
Steals Per Game
 Aubrey COLEMAN
  Angelico.
  (193-G-87)
  Avg: 3.2
 1. Coleman, Angelico.3.2 
 2. Kirksay, Fabi Shoes2.6 
 3. Hackett, Scavolin.2.5 
 4. Green, Sidigas AV2.4 
 5. Hosley, Banco d.2.2 
 6. Dean, Sidigas AV2.0 
 7. Rich, Vanoli CR2.0 
 8. Poeta, CS Bologna1.9 
 9. Di Bella, Fabi S.1.9 
 10. Pullen, Angelico1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Jarvis VARNADO
  Acea Roma
  (206-F-88)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Varnado, Acea Roma1.8 
 2. Cusin, Scavolini PS1.5 
 3. Szewczyk, Umana V.1.3 
 4. Easley, Banco d.1.2 
 5. Johnson, Sidigas1.1 
 6. Shermadini, Bennet1.0 
 7. Viggiano, Benetton.0.9 
 8. Sanikidze, CS Bo.0.9 
 9. Brunner, Bennet C.0.9 
 10. Slokar, Acea Roma0.8 


Standings - Lega 2

Lega2 Standings
 1. Trenkwalder 20-7 
 2. Giorgio Tesi PT 18-10 
 3. Enel Brindisi 17-10 
 4. Givova Scafati 17-10 
 5. Sigma Barcel. 16-11 
 6. Centrale Latte 15-12 
 7. Fileni BPA 13-14 
 8. Morpho Basket 13-14 
 9. Prima Veroli 12-15 
 10. Tezenis Verona 12-15 
 11. Assi Ostuni 12-15 
 12. S.Antimo 10-17 
 13. Aget Imola 10-17 
 14. Biancoblu BO 10-17 
 15. MarcoPoloShop 8-19 

Regular Season: Round 29

Apr. 29: Giorgio Tesi PT - MarcoPoloShop 94-73
Apr. 29: Enel Brindisi - Biancoblu BO 92-95
Apr. 29: S.Antimo - Morpho Basket 92-78
Apr. 29: Fileni BPA - Assi Ostuni 86-88
Apr. 29: Centrale Latte - Givova Scafati 76-74
Apr. 29: Tezenis Verona - Prima Veroli 71-76
Apr. 29: Trenkwalder - Aget Imola 71-67

Regular Season: Round 30

May. 5: Givova Scafati - Enel Brindisi
May. 5: Prima Veroli - Fileni BPA
May. 5: Assi Ostuni - Centrale Latte
May. 5: Aget Imola - S.Antimo
May. 5: Biancoblu BO - Sigma Barcel.
May. 5: MarcoPoloShop - Trenkwalder
May. 5: Morpho Basket - Tezenis Verona


Stats Leaders - Lega2

Points Per Game
 Troy BELL
  S.Antimo
  (186-PG-80)
  Avg: 23
 1. Bell, S.Antimo23.0 
 2. Hardy, Giorgio22.6 
 3. Marigney, Givova S.21.0 
 4. Freeman, MarcoPol.20.9 
 5. Voskuil, Morpho B.18.4 
 6. Maggioli, Fileni B.18.3 
 7. McConnell, Fileni18.0 
 8. Robinson, Trenkwal.17.9 
 9. Taylor, Trenkwal.17.7 
 10. Brooks, Fileni BPA16.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 James THOMAS
  Givova S.
  (203-F/C-80)
  Avg: 11.9
 1. Thomas, Givova S.11.9 
 2. Anderson, Morpho B.8.3 
 3. Jones, Giorgio8.0 
 4. Maggioli, Fileni B.7.9 
 5. Borovnjak, Enel B.7.7 
 6. Baldassarre, Bianc.7.6 
 7. Waleskowski, Tezen.7.4 
 8. Diliegro, Assi Ost.7.2 
 9. Brooks, Fileni BPA7.0 
 10. Kotti, Aget Imola6.8 
Assists Per Game
 Mike GREEN
  Sigma B.
  (185-PG-85)
  Avg: 5.1
 1. Green, Sigma B.5.1 
 2. Porta, Tezenis4.6 
 3. Johnson, Assi O.4.6 
 4. Kelley, Biancobl.3.5 
 5. McConnell, Fileni3.4 
 6. Whiting, Aget Imola3.4 
 7. Renfroe, Enel B.3.3 
 8. Marigney, Givova S.3.2 
 9. Goldwire, Centra.3.0 
 10. Blizzard, Biancob.2.9 
Steals Per Game
 Mario WEST
  Tezenis .
  (195-G-84)
  Avg: 3.1
 1. West, Tezenis3.1 
 2. Thompson, Centra.2.9 
 3. Radulovic, Givova2.6 
 4. Robinson, Trenkwal.2.4 
 5. Goldwire, Centra.2.3 
 6. Baldassarre, Bianc.2.3 
 7. Porta, Tezenis2.3 
 8. Green, Sigma B.2.3 
 9. Marigney, Givova S.2.2 
 10. Ghersetti, Centra.2.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Riccardo CERVI
  Trenkwalder
  (215-C-91)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Cervi, Trenkwalder2.1 
 2. Maggioli, Fileni B.1.7 
 3. Thomas, Givova S.0.9 
 4. Radulovic, Givova0.9 
 5. Brkic, Prima Veroli0.8 
 6. Chiacig, Trenkwald.0.7 
 7. Da Ros, Sigma B.0.7 
 8. Kotti, Aget Imola0.6 
 9. Renzi, Tezenis0.6 
 10. DiGiuliomari., Te.0.6 


Lega2 Round 29: Biancoblu BO edges Enel Brindisi by three points - by Eurobasket News

There will be only one (last) round of the Regular Season in Lega2.

The most exciting game of round 29 in the Lega2 took place in Brindisi. This derby game ended with only three-point home defeat of second-ranked Enel Brindisi (17-10) to fourteenth ranked Biancoblu BO (10-17) 95-92 on Sunday evening. It was quite big embarassment for the home team. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Enel Brindisi. The guests trailed by 10 points at the halftime before their 52-39 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. 26 personal fouls committed by Enel Brindisi helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was French power forward Guillame Yango (205-82, college: Pacific) who scored 16 points and 9 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field). Power forward Patrick Baldassarre (200-86, agency: Players Group) chipped in 17 points and 6 rebounds. American point guard Alex Renfroe (191-86, college: Belmont) produced 14 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists for the hosts. Enel Brindisi's coach Pier Luigi Bucchi rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Biancoblu BO moved-up to twelfth place, which they share with Aget Imola and S.Antimo. Enel Brindisi at the other side dropped to the third position with ten games lost. They share it with Givova Scafati. Biancoblu BO is looking forward to face higher ranked Sigma Barcellona (#5) at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Enel Brindisi will play against Givova Scafati and will have a slim chance for a victory.
Important game to mention about took place in Brescia. Sixth ranked Centrale Latte (15-12) saved a 2-point victory at home edging 3rd placed Givova Scafati (17-10) 76-74 on Sunday evening. Naturalized Albanian guard Franko Bushati (188-85, agency: Two Points) orchestrated the victory by scoring 17 points. Mario Jose Ghersetti contributed with 12 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. American power forward James Thomas (203-80, college: Texas) answered with a double-double by scoring 11 points and 16 rebounds for Givova Scafati. Centrale Latte maintains sixth place with 15-12 record. Givova Scafati at the other side keeps the third position with ten games lost. They share it with Enel Brindisi. Centrale Latte will play against Assi Ostuni (#11) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Givova Scafati will play against Enel Brindisi (#3) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Leader Trenkwalder RE delivered the twentiethth victory on Sunday night. This time they beat 12th ranked Aget Imola (10-17) 71-67 in Reggio Emilia. Michele Antonutti stepped up with a double-double by scoring 13 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Ronald DuPree responded with 19 points and 9 rebounds. Trenkwalder RE (20-7) have an impressive series of five victories in a row. They maintain first place. Loser Aget Imola keeps the twelfth position with 17 games lost. They share it with Biancoblu BO and S.Antimo. Trenkwalder RE will meet bottom-ranked MarcoPoloShop.it (#15) in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Aget Imola will play against S.Antimo in Sant'Antimo and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
A very interesting game took place in Jesi. It ended with only two-point home defeat of higher ranked Fileni BPA (13-14) to eleventh ranked Assi Ostuni (12-15) 88-86 on Sunday evening. Jaka Klobucar nailed 28 points and 6 rebounds for the winning side. Assi Ostuni moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Tezenis Verona and Prima Veroli. Fileni BPA lost their third game in a row. They keep the seventh position with 14 games lost. Assi Ostuni's next round opponent will be higher ranked Centrale Latte (#6) in Brescia and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
We should mention about the upset which took place in Sant'Antimo, where higher ranked Morpho Basket (13-14) lost to thirteenth ranked S.Antimo (10-17) in a road game 78-92 on Sunday. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Morpho Basket. The game was dominated by American players. The best player for the winners was Troy Bell who scored 21 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. S.Antimo moved-up to twelfth place, which they share with Biancoblu BO and Aget Imola. Morpho Basket at the other side, also newcomer in the league, dropped to the seventh position with 14 games lost. S.Antimo will face Aget Imola (#13) on the road in the next round.

In the last two games of round 29 bottom-ranked MarcoPoloShop was crushed by Giorgio Tesi PT in Pistoia 94-73. Tezenis Verona was beaten by Prima Veroli at home 71-76.

Giorgio Tesi PT - MarcoPoloShop 94-73

There was no surprise when 15th ranked MarcoPoloShop.it (8-19) was crushed on the road by fourth ranked Tuscany Pistoia (18-10) 94-73 on Sunday. The game was mostly controlled by Tuscany Pistoia. MarcoPoloShop.it was better in fourth quarter 23-22. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Tuscany Pistoia forced 19 MarcoPoloShop.it turnovers. They shot the lights out from three sinking 16 long-distance shots on high 53.3 percentage. The best player for the winners was American forward Bobby Jones (201-84, college: Washington) who had a double-double by scoring 19 points and 10 rebounds. His fellow American import point guard Dwight Hardy (188-87, college: St.John's) chipped in 23 points and 6 rebounds. Four Tuscany Pistoia players scored in double figures. Tuscany Pistoia's coach Paolo Moretti felt very confident that he used 11 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American swingman Terrence Roderick (196-88, college: UAB, agency: Interperformances) produced 26 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists and 5 steals and power forward Mitchell Poletti (205-88) added 12 points and 11 rebounds respectively for the guests. Tuscany Pistoia moved-up to second place. Loser MarcoPoloShop.it stay at the bottom position with 19 games lost. Tuscany Pistoia will have a break next round. MarcoPoloShop.it will play at home against the league's leader Trenkwalder RE (#1) in Reggio Emilia.
Top scorers:
MarcoPoloShop: T.Roderick 26+5reb+5ast, M.Poletti 12+11reb, S.Huff 9+5reb+1ast, S.Borsato 9+1reb, N.Natali 7+11reb+3ast, T.Coleman 6+2reb+2ast
Giorgio Tesi PT: D.Hardy 23+6reb+2ast, B.Jones 19+10reb+3ast, G.Gurini 19+5reb+2ast, L.Saccaggi 12+1reb+2ast, J.Tavernari 12+1reb+1ast, G.Galanda 7+8reb+4ast
gschID: 167436


Fileni BPA - Assi Ostuni 86-88

A very interesting game took place in Jesi. It ended with only two-point home defeat of higher ranked Fileni BPA (13-14) to eleventh ranked Assi Ostuni (12-15) 88-86 on Sunday evening. The guests were ahead by 4 points but lost the second period ending it with a 2-point deficit before their 28-24 run, which allowed them to win the game. Slovenian guard Jaka Klobucar (198-87) nailed 28 points and 6 rebounds for the winning side and Latvian swingman Mareks Jurevicus (197-85) accounted for 17 points. The former international center Michele Maggioli (212-77) came up with 23 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 blocks and American forward Jeff Brooks (203-89, college: Penn St.) added 23 points respectively for Fileni BPA in the defeat. Four Fileni BPA players scored in double figures. Assi Ostuni moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Tezenis Verona and Prima Veroli. Fileni BPA lost their third game in a row. They keep the seventh position with 14 games lost. Assi Ostuni's next round opponent will be higher ranked Centrale Latte (#6) in Brescia and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
Top scorers:
Fileni BPA: J.Brooks 23+4reb, M.Maggioli 23+8reb+4ast, R.McConnell 15+2reb+3ast, F.Migliori 10+6reb, J.Valentini 6+4reb+1ast, R.Hoover 5+1reb+2ast
Assi Ostuni: J.Klobucar 28+6reb+1ast, M.Jurevicus 17+3reb, A.Johnson 14+2reb+2ast, T.Rinaldi 8+3reb+1ast, F.Basei 8+7reb, D.Diliegro 6+4reb
gschID: 167437


S.Antimo - Morpho Basket 92-78

We should mention about the upset which took place in Sant'Antimo, where higher ranked Morpho Basket (13-14) lost to thirteenth ranked S.Antimo (10-17) in a road game 78-92 on Sunday. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Morpho Basket. The game was mostly controlled by S.Antimo. Morpho Basket was better in fourth quarter 16-10. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The game was dominated by American players. The best player for the winners was point guard Troy Bell (186-80, college: Boston Coll.) who scored 21 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. Guard Folarin Campbell (192-86, college: George Mason) chipped in 26 points. Four S.Antimo players scored in double figures. Forward Dwayne Anderson (198-86, college: Villanova) produced 21 points and 6 rebounds and guard Clint Cotis Harrison (194-76, college: N.Carolina St., agency: Court Side) added 12 points respectively for the guests. S.Antimo moved-up to twelfth place, which they share with Biancoblu BO and Aget Imola. Morpho Basket at the other side, also newcomer in the league, dropped to the seventh position with 14 games lost. S.Antimo will face Aget Imola (#13) on the road in the next round.
Top scorers:
Morpho Basket: D.Anderson 21+6reb, A.Voskuil 12+4reb, C.Cotis Harrison 12+4reb+3ast, L.Infante 9+4reb+4ast, A.Simoncelli 9+4reb+1ast, M.Passera 8+1reb+6ast
S.Antimo: F.Campbell 26+3reb+3ast, T.Bell 21+6reb+5ast, N.Kommatos 16+6reb+4ast, A.Cittadini 15+12reb, R.Moraschini 8+3reb, M.Rossi 4+2reb+2ast
gschID: 167434


Centrale Latte - Givova Scafati 76-74

Important game to mention about took place in Brescia. Sixth ranked Centrale Latte (15-12) saved a 2-point victory at home edging 3rd placed Givova Scafati (17-10) 76-74 on Sunday evening. The hosts started the game with a very strong first quarter 21-12. But Givova Scafati won second period 23-18. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Centrale Latte forced 19 Givova Scafati turnovers. Naturalized Albanian guard Franko Bushati (188-85, agency: Two Points) orchestrated the victory by scoring 17 points (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field). Naturalized Argentinian forward Mario Jose Ghersetti (201-81) contributed with 12 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. American power forward James Thomas (203-80, college: Texas) answered with a double-double by scoring 11 points and 16 rebounds and the other American import guard Paul Marigney (192-82, college: St.Mary's, CA) added 19 points in the effort for Givova Scafati. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Centrale Latte maintains sixth place with 15-12 record. Givova Scafati at the other side keeps the third position with ten games lost. They share it with Enel Brindisi. Centrale Latte will play against Assi Ostuni (#11) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Givova Scafati will play against Enel Brindisi (#3) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Givova Scafati: P.Marigney 19+4reb+3ast, M.Levin 13+1reb+5ast, A.Ghiacci 12+6reb+1ast, J.Thomas 11+16reb+2ast, M.Casini 7+3reb+2ast, N.Radulovic 7+5reb+2ast
Centrale Latte: F.Bushati 17+4reb+2ast, L.Goldwire 12+2reb+5ast, M.Jose Ghersetti 12+6reb+1ast, R.Rombaldoni 10+3reb+1ast, M.Rezzano 8+1reb+1ast, R.Thompson 7+5reb+6ast
gschID: 167435


Tezenis Verona - Prima Veroli 71-76

We could consider it a predictable result in the game between close teams when tenth ranked Prima Veroli (12-15) defeated on the road 9th ranked Tezenis Verona (12-15) 76-71 on Sunday. Tezenis Verona trailed by 13 points after 3 quarters before a 21-13 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 71-76 at the end of the game. The best player for the winners was Finnish-American forward Gerald Lee (208-87, college: ODU) who scored 17 points and 8 rebounds. American guard Jarrius Jackson (188-85, college: Texas Tech) chipped in 18 points. Naturalized Argentinian guard Antonio Porta (187-83, agency: Players Group) produced 21 points, 5 assists and 4 steals and American guard Mario West (195-84, college: Georgia Tech) added 16 points and 8 rebounds respectively for the hosts. Prima Veroli moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Tezenis Verona and Assi Ostuni. Prima Veroli will face higher ranked Fileni BPA (#7) in Jesi in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
Top scorers:
Tezenis Verona: A.Porta 21+4reb+5ast, M.West 16+8reb+2ast, A.Renzi 11+2reb, K.Waleskowski 8+11reb+1ast, C.DiGiuliomaria 6+3reb, G.Boscagin 4+4reb+1ast
Prima Veroli: J.Jackson 18+3ast, G.Lee 17+8reb, B.Elder 16+2ast, R.Rullo 7+1reb+1ast, D.Brkic 7+9reb, A.Giovacchini 6+5reb+3ast
gschID: 167432


Enel Brindisi - Biancoblu BO 92-95

The most exciting game of round 29 in the Lega2 took place in Brindisi. This derby game ended with only three-point home defeat of second-ranked Enel Brindisi (17-10) to fourteenth ranked Biancoblu BO (10-17) 95-92 on Sunday evening. It was quite big embarassment for the home team. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Enel Brindisi. The guests trailed by 10 points at the halftime before their 52-39 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. 26 personal fouls committed by Enel Brindisi helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was French power forward Guillame Yango (205-82, college: Pacific) who scored 16 points and 9 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field). Power forward Patrick Baldassarre (200-86, agency: Players Group) chipped in 17 points and 6 rebounds. American point guard Alex Renfroe (191-86, college: Belmont) produced 14 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists and Serbian power forward Dejan Borovnjak (207-86, agency: Beo Basket) added 18 points and 8 rebounds (perfect from the field making all seven shots !!!) respectively for the hosts. Five Biancoblu BO and four Enel Brindisi players scored in double figures. Enel Brindisi's coach Pier Luigi Bucchi rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Biancoblu BO moved-up to twelfth place, which they share with Aget Imola and S.Antimo. Enel Brindisi at the other side dropped to the third position with ten games lost. They share it with Givova Scafati. Biancoblu BO is looking forward to face higher ranked Sigma Barcellona (#5) at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Enel Brindisi will play against Givova Scafati and will have a slim chance for a victory.
Top scorers:
Enel Brindisi: D.Borovnjak 18+8reb+1ast, K.Charalampidis 17+1reb+5ast, A.Renfroe 14+9reb+4ast, C.Callahan 12+3reb, M.Giuri 10, A.Zerini 8+1reb+1ast
Biancoblu BO: M.Perry 21+2reb+1ast, P.Baldassarre 17+6reb+2ast, G.Yango 16+9reb+1ast, G.Ferrero 11+2reb, D.Cutolo 11+8reb, B.Blizzard 10+4reb+4ast
gschID: 167433


Trenkwalder - Aget Imola 71-67

Leader Trenkwalder RE delivered the twentiethth victory on Sunday night. This time they beat 12th ranked Aget Imola (10-17) 71-67 in Reggio Emilia. The hosts trailed by 9 points at the halftime before their 35-22 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Trenkwalder RE forced 19 Aget Imola turnovers. The former international swingman Michele Antonutti (202-86) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 13 points and 10 rebounds for the winners and center Riccardo Cervi (215-91) chipped in 13 points, 10 rebounds and 4 blocks (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field). American swingman Ronald DuPree (199-81, college: LSU, agency: Priority Sports) responded with 19 points and 9 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) and Finnish power forward Tuukka Kotti (205-81, college: Providence) scored 7 points and 8 rebounds. Trenkwalder RE (20-7) have an impressive series of five victories in a row. They maintain first place. Loser Aget Imola keeps the twelfth position with 17 games lost. They share it with Biancoblu BO and S.Antimo. Trenkwalder RE will meet bottom-ranked MarcoPoloShop.it (#15) in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Aget Imola will play against S.Antimo in Sant'Antimo and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Aget Imola: R.DuPree 19+9reb+3ast, F.Masoni 9+1reb, P.Prato 9+3reb+2ast, D.Bruttini 8+4reb, D.Cournooh 8+1reb, T.Kotti 7+8reb+1ast
Trenkwalder: D.Taylor 18+2reb+1ast, M.Antonutti 13+10reb, R.Cervi 13+10reb, D.Slanina 8+3reb+1ast, D.Robinson 6+4reb+5ast, F.Ruini 6+1reb
gschID: 167431



Emporio Armani tab Justin Dentmon - by Eurobasket News

Emporio Armani deepened their backcourt. They agreed on terms of contract with Justin Dentmon (182-G-85, college: Washington). The guard arrives from D-League. He spent the majority of the season with the Austin Toros. The guard notched 22.2 points, 5.3 assists, 3.6 boards and 1.5 steals per game in D-League. The guard also had short stints with the Toronto Raptors and San Antonio Spurs. He averaged 5.5 points, 2.3 assists and 1.8 rebounds with the Raptors. The guard also delivered 2.0 points with the Spurs. Justin Dentmon also participated at D-League All-Star Game. Justin Dentmon played in Dominican Republic, Venezuela, D-League and Israel before. The guard was the member of USA National Team at the Panamerican Games in Guadalajara last year.


SerieA Round 32: Bennet Cantu defeats Angelico Biella in the closest game of the week - by Eurobasket News

There are only two more rounds left in the Regular Season in SerieA.

Fourteenth-ranked Angelico Biella (12-18) gave a tough game to second ranked Bennet Cantu (20-10) on Sunday. The visitors from Cantu managed to secure only one-point victory 77-76. However their fans expected much easier game. The guests trailed by 6 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 4-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 77-76. Bennet Cantu looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists comparing to just 10 passes made by Angelico Biella's players. Worth to mention a great performance of American point guard Doron Perkins (188-83, college: Santa Clara) who helped to win the game recording 20 points and 6 assists and naturalized Uruguayan point guard Nicolas Mazzarino (181-75, agency: Players Group) who added 14 points and 4 assists during the contest. American point guard Jacob Pullen (182-89, college: Kansas St.) responded with 19 points. Angelico Biella's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Bennet Cantu maintains second position with 20-10 record having just three points less than leader Montepaschi, which they share with Armani Mit. Angelico Biella at the other side dropped to the thirteenth place with 18 games lost. They share the position with Otto Caserta and Fabi Shoes. Bennet Cantu is looking forward to face Fabi Shoes Montegranaro (#13) at home in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Angelico Biella will play against Otto Caserta and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Bottom-ranked Novipiu CM managed to get a seventh victory, breaking the six-game losing streak. This time newly promoted Novipiu CM won against tenth-ranked Lottomatica Roma 76-70. The winners were led by American guard Garrett Temple (198-86, college: LSU) who scored that evening 15 points and 5 rebounds and Matteo Malaventura supported him with 14 points. Novipiu CM's coach Andrea Valentini allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Even 20 points and 6 rebounds by international swingman Luigi Datome (202-87) did not help to save the game for Lottomatica Roma. Newly promoted Novipiu CM maintains seventeenth position with 7-23 record. Lottomatica Roma lost fourth consecutive game. They dropped to the eleventh place with 18 games lost. They share the position with Vanoli CR. Novipiu CM will play against higher ranked Banca Tercas (#16) in Teramo in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Lottomatica Roma will play on the road against Scavolini Pesaro (#5) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
SerieA top team - Montepaschi Siena (23-7) added another victory to their record on Sunday. This time they beat fifth ranked Banco di Sard. (18-12) 92-85. The best player for the winners was Ksistof Lavrinovic who scored 25 points and 7 rebounds (on 11-of-14 shooting from the field). Montepaschi Siena's coach Simone Pianigiani used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Tony Easley produced 22 points and 8 rebounds for the guests. Montepaschi Siena have an impressive five-game winning streak. Defending champion maintains first position with 23-7 record. Loser Banco di Sard. dropped to the fourth place with 12 games lost. They share the position with Scavolini PS and CS Bologna. Montepaschi Siena will meet at home CS Bologna (#6) in the next round where they are favorite. Banco di Sard. will play against Umana Venezia and hope to secure a win.
The game in Bologna was also worth to mention about. One of their biggest challengers Scavolini Pesaro (18-12) played at the court of sixth ranked CS Bologna (18-12). CS Bologna managed to secure a 9-point victory 73-64. Viktor Sanikidze orchestrated the victory by scoring 9 points and 12 rebounds. CS Bologna have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Scavolini PS and Banco di Sard. CS Bologna's next round opponent will be league's leader Montepaschi Siena on the road and it may be the game of the week. Scavolini Pesaro will play against Lottomatica Roma.
An interesting game took place in Venezia where higher ranked Umana Venezia (17-13) was upset on its own court by thirteenth ranked Benetton Treviso (13-17) 72-61 on Sunday. Worth to mention a great performance of Massimo Bulleri who helped to win the game recording 16 points and 7 rebounds. Benetton Treviso's coach Alexander Djordjevic used an eleven-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. Benetton Treviso moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Sidigas AV. Loser Umana Venezia keeps the seventh position with 13 games lost. Benetton Treviso will face higher ranked Armani Milano (#3) at home in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game.

There were no shocking results in the other games in round 32: Otto Caserta lost to Fabi Shoes on the opponent's court 85-96. Cimberio VA managed to outperform Vanoli CR in a home game 78-66. Banca Tercas was rolled over Armani Mit on the road 83-64.
The most impressive stats of the last round was 24 points and 11 rebounds by Dejan Ivanov of Fabi Shoes.

Fabi Shoes - Otto Caserta 96-85

There was a minor upset when higher ranked Otto Caserta (12-18) was defeated on the road by sixteenth ranked Fabi Shoes Montegranaro (12-18) 96-85 on Sunday. The hosts trailed by 9 points after first quarter, but they stormed back winning two of next three quarters and won the game by 11 points. Fabi Shoes Montegranaro forced 20 Otto Caserta turnovers. Otto Caserta was plagued by 27 personal fouls down the stretch. Worth to mention a great performance of Bulgarian power forward Dejan Ivanov (205-86, agency: Beo Basket) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 24 points and 11 rebounds and power forward Valerio Mazzola (205-88) who added 21 points and 9 rebounds during the contest. Four Fabi Shoes Montegranaro players scored in double figures. American forward Andre Smith (203-85, college: N.Dakota St.) responded with a double-double by scoring 20 points and 10 rebounds and the former international guard Giuliano Maresca (192-81) scored 24 points. Fabi Shoes Montegranaro moved-up to thirteenth place, which they share with Otto Caserta and Angelico BI. Fabi Shoes Montegranaro will face league's second-placed Bennet Cantu on the road in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game.
Top scorers:
Otto Caserta: G.Maresca 24+3reb, A.Smith 20+10reb+3ast, A.Doornekamp 8+1reb+1ast, A.Collins 8+5reb+6ast, C.Bell 8+6reb, A.Righetti 7+3reb+2ast
Fabi Shoes: D.Ivanov 24+11reb, V.Mazzola 21+9reb+1ast, J.McNeal 18+3reb+5ast, F.Di Bella 15+6ast, C.Karl 8+5reb+2ast, G.Piunti 7+3reb
gschID: 150882


Cimberio VA - Vanoli CR 78-66

The game between closely ranked teams ended with eighth ranked Cimberio Varese's (16-14) home victory over 9th ranked Vanoli-Braga (13-18) 78-66 on Sunday. The hosts trailed by 7 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 6-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 78-66. Worth to mention a great performance of American guard Phil Goss (186-83, college: Drexel) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 14 points, 10 assists and 6 steals and Croatian point guard Rok Stipcevic (185-86) who added 18 points during the contest. Four Cimberio Varese players scored in double figures. Cimberio Varese's coach Carlo Recalcati used an eleven-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. American swingman David Lighty (195-88, college: Ohio St.) responded with 17 points and 9 rebounds and his fellow American import guard Jason Rich (191-86) scored 18 points, 5 assists and 4 steals. Cimberio Varese maintains eighth position with 16-14 record. Loser Vanoli-Braga dropped to the eleventh place with 18 games lost. Cimberio Varese will face Air Avellino (#9) on the road in the next round.
Top scorers:
Vanoli CR: J.Rich 18+3reb+5ast, D.Lighty 17+9reb+1ast, M.Milic 10+2reb, J.Perkovic 8+3reb+2ast, B.Tabu-Eboma 6+1ast, D.Cinciarini 5+5reb+1ast
Cimberio VA: R.Stipcevic 18+2reb+2ast, P.Goss 14+1reb+10ast, Y.Diawara 11+5reb, J.Talts 10+7reb, K.Kangur 8+3reb+2ast, T.Rannikko 7+2reb+2ast
gschID: 150883


Armani Mit - Banca Tercas 83-64

Not a big story in a game when 15th ranked Banca Tercas (11-19) were rolled over on the road by third ranked Armani Milano (20-10) 83-64 on Sunday. The game was mostly controlled by Armani Milano. Banca Tercas was better in fourth quarter 20-11. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Worth to mention a great performance of swingman Alessandro Gentile (197-92) who helped to win the game recording 12 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists and American-Montenegrin point guard Omar-Sharif Cook (186-82, college: St.John's, agency: Beo Basket) who added 16 points during the contest. Four Armani Milano players scored in double figures. Armani Milano's coach Sergio Scariolo used entire bench and allowed the starting five to rest. The former international power forward Valerio Amoroso (204-80) responded with 21 points and 6 rebounds and American point guard Dee Brown (185-84, college: Illinois) scored 11 points and 5 rebounds. Armani Milano have an impressive six-game winning streak. They moved-up to second place, which they share with Bennet Cantu. Loser Banca Tercas dropped to the sixteenth position with 19 games lost. Armani Milano will face Benetton Treviso (#10) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Banca Tercas will play against Novipiu CM (#17) in Casale and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Banca Tercas: V.Amoroso 21+6reb+1ast, D.Brown 11+5reb+1ast, R.Fultz 10+1reb+1ast, B.Cerella 8+4reb, M.Borisov 6+2reb, A.Polonara 5+8reb
Armani Mit: O.Cook 16+1reb+3ast, A.Gentile 12+9reb+5ast, M.Hairston 11+3reb+2ast, S.Mancinelli 10+3reb+1ast, N.Melli 9+8reb, I.Bourousis 6+3reb+1ast
gschID: 150884


Acea Roma - Novipiu CM 70-76

Bottom-ranked Novipiu CM managed to get a seventh victory, breaking the six-game losing streak. This time newly promoted Novipiu CM won against tenth-ranked Lottomatica Roma 76-70. The guests were ahead by 2 points but lost the second period ending it with a 2-point deficit before their 21-13 run, which allowed them to win the game. The winners were led by American guard Garrett Temple (198-86, college: LSU) who scored that evening 15 points and 5 rebounds and the former international guard Matteo Malaventura (197-78) supported him with 14 points. Novipiu CM's coach Andrea Valentini allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Even 20 points and 6 rebounds by international swingman Luigi Datome (202-87) did not help to save the game for Lottomatica Roma. Bosnian guard Nemanja Gordic (193-88) added 13 points, 5 assists and 4 steals for the hosts. Five Lottomatica Roma players scored in double figures. Newly promoted Novipiu CM maintains seventeenth position with 7-23 record. Lottomatica Roma lost fourth consecutive game. They dropped to the eleventh place with 18 games lost. They share the position with Vanoli CR. Novipiu CM will play against higher ranked Banca Tercas (#16) in Teramo in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Lottomatica Roma will play on the road against Scavolini Pesaro (#5) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Acea Roma: L.Datome 20+6reb+1ast, N.Gordic 13+2reb+5ast, J.Varnado 11+9reb, C.Tucker 11+4reb+2ast, U.Slokar 10+4reb, M.Mordente 4+1ast
Novipiu CM: G.Temple 15+5reb+1ast, M.Malaventura 14+1reb+3ast, M.Janning 11+1reb+3ast, S.Gentile 9+2reb+5ast, O.Stevic 8+4reb, D.Chiotti 8+9reb
gschID: 150885


Umana Venezia - Benetton TV 61-72

An interesting game took place in Venezia where higher ranked Umana Venezia (17-13) was upset on its own court by thirteenth ranked Benetton Treviso (13-17) 72-61 on Sunday. Benetton Treviso dominated on the defensive end, holding Umana Venezia to just 7 points in first quarter. Worth to mention a great performance of the former international point guard Massimo Bulleri (188-77) who helped to win the game recording 16 points and 7 rebounds and American forward Marcus Goree (201-77, college: W.Virginia) who added 13 points and 6 rebounds during the contest. Benetton Treviso's coach Alexander Djordjevic used an eleven-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. American guard Timothy Bowers (188-82, college: Mississippi St.) responded with 12 points and 8 rebounds and American-Bulgarian point guard Kee Kee Clark (180-84, college: St.Peter's) scored 13 points. Benetton Treviso moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Sidigas AV. Loser Umana Venezia keeps the seventh position with 13 games lost. Benetton Treviso will face higher ranked Armani Milano (#3) at home in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game.
Top scorers:
Umana Venezia: K.Kee Clark 13+4reb+3ast, T.Bowers 12+8reb+3ast, S.Szewczyk 10+3reb, T.Fantoni 9+6reb, G.Rosselli 8+4reb+1ast, T.Slay 4+3reb+1ast
Benetton TV: M.Bulleri 16+7reb+1ast, M.Goree 13+6reb+2ast, J.Viggiano 12+6reb+1ast, V.Moldoveanu 12+1reb+1ast, G.Mekel 6+5reb+9ast, B.Ortner 6+9reb+2ast
gschID: 150879


Montepaschi - Banco di Sard. 92-85

SerieA top team - Montepaschi Siena (23-7) added another victory to their record on Sunday. This time they beat fifth ranked Banco di Sard. (18-12) 92-85. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Banco di Sard. won third quarter 26-24. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Montepaschi Siena dominated down low during the game scoring 62 of its points in the paint compared to Banco di Sard.'s 40. Montepaschi Siena looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. The best player for the winners was Lithuanian center Ksistof Lavrinovic (210-79) who scored 25 points and 7 rebounds (on 11-of-14 shooting from the field). The former international Pietro Aradori (194-88) chipped in 20 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. Montepaschi Siena's coach Simone Pianigiani used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American forward Tony Easley (206-87, college: Murray St., agency: Pro One Sports) produced 22 points and 8 rebounds and his fellow American import guard Drake Diener (196-81, college: De Paul, agency: Priority Sports) added 20 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists respectively for the guests. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. Montepaschi Siena have an impressive five-game winning streak. Defending champion maintains first position with 23-7 record. Loser Banco di Sard. dropped to the fourth place with 12 games lost. They share the position with Scavolini PS and CS Bologna. Montepaschi Siena will meet at home CS Bologna (#6) in the next round where they are favorite. Banco di Sard. will play against Umana Venezia and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Banco di Sard.: T.Easley 22+8reb+1ast, D.Diener 20+5reb+5ast, M.Pinton 17+3ast, Q.Hosley 12+4reb+2ast, B.Sacchetti 10+4reb+3ast, A.Binetti 4+2reb+1ast
Montepaschi: K.Lavrinovic 25+7reb+1ast, P.Aradori 20+6reb+5ast, B.McCalebb 15+1reb+7ast, R.Kaukenas 11+1ast, D.Andersen 10+5reb+2ast, S.Stonerook 6+6reb
gschID: 150880


CS Bologna - Scavolini PS 73-64

The game in Bologna was also worth to mention about. One of their biggest challengers Scavolini Pesaro (18-12) played at the court of sixth ranked CS Bologna (18-12). CS Bologna managed to secure a 9-point victory 73-64. It looked good early as Scavolini Pesaro took an 2-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then CS Bologna had a 18-12 second period charge getting the lead and Scavolini Pesaro was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 64-73. Georgian forward Viktor Sanikidze (203-86) orchestrated the victory by scoring 9 points and 12 rebounds. Finnish guard Petteri Koponen (194-88) contributed with 16 points for the winners. American guard James White (199-84, college: Cincinnati, agency: Court Side) replied with 22 points and the former international guard Daniel Hackett (198-87, college: USC, agency: Two Points) added 15 points in the effort for Scavolini Pesaro. CS Bologna have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Scavolini PS and Banco di Sard. CS Bologna's next round opponent will be league's leader Montepaschi Siena on the road and it may be the game of the week. Scavolini Pesaro will play against Lottomatica Roma.
Top scorers:
Scavolini PS: J.White 22+4reb+2ast, D.Hackett 15+2reb+2ast, R.Hickman 14+2ast, T.Lydeka 8+6reb, J.Jones 5+8reb+1ast, A.Urbutis 0+1reb
CS Bologna: P.Koponen 16+1reb+2ast, G.Poeta 13+4reb, A.Gigli 10+8reb, V.Sanikidze 9+12reb+2ast, C.Douglas-Roberts 9+2reb+3ast, L.Vitali 7+3reb+1ast
gschID: 150881


Angelico BI - Bennet Cantu 76-77

Fourteenth-ranked Angelico Biella (12-18) gave a tough game to second ranked Bennet Cantu (20-10) on Sunday. The visitors from Cantu managed to secure only one-point victory 77-76. However their fans expected much easier game. The guests trailed by 6 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 4-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 77-76. Bennet Cantu looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists comparing to just 10 passes made by Angelico Biella's players. Worth to mention a great performance of American point guard Doron Perkins (188-83, college: Santa Clara) who helped to win the game recording 20 points and 6 assists and naturalized Uruguayan point guard Nicolas Mazzarino (181-75, agency: Players Group) who added 14 points and 4 assists during the contest. American point guard Jacob Pullen (182-89, college: Kansas St.) responded with 19 points and Spanish center Albert Miralles (208-82, agency: Interperformances) scored 13 points and 9 rebounds. Five Bennet Cantu and four Angelico Biella players scored in double figures. Angelico Biella's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Bennet Cantu maintains second position with 20-10 record having just three points less than leader Montepaschi, which they share with Armani Mit. Angelico Biella at the other side dropped to the thirteenth place with 18 games lost. They share the position with Otto Caserta and Fabi Shoes. Bennet Cantu is looking forward to face Fabi Shoes Montegranaro (#13) at home in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Angelico Biella will play against Otto Caserta and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Angelico BI: J.Pullen 19+2reb+2ast, A.Coleman 15+3reb+3ast, M.Chessa 14+2reb, A.Miralles 13+9reb, T.Dragicevic 7+4reb+2ast, G.Jurak 6+3reb+1ast
Bennet Cantu: D.Perkins 20+4reb+6ast, N.Mazzarino 14+3reb+4ast, G.Brunner 11+4reb+3ast, M.Leunen 11+4reb+3ast, D.Marconato 10+5reb, A.Cinciarini 7+1reb+3ast
gschID: 150878



*****************************************************
  JAPAN   

Standings - BJ League

BJ Standings
Eastern
 1. Hamamatsu P. 36-15 
 2. Yokohama BC 30-21 
 3. Akita NH 28-24 
 4. Niigata Albirex 27-24 
 5. Toyama Grouses 25-26 
 6. Sendai 89ers 25-26 
 7. Shinshu BW 18-33 
 8. Chiba Jets 18-33 
 9. Iwate Big Bulls 18-33 
 10. Saitama Bron. 16-35 
Western
 1. Okinawa GK 38-13 
 2. Osaka Evessa 34-17 
 3. Kyoto Hannar. 34-17 
 4. Shiga L-Stars 33-18 
 5. Fukuoka Rizing 32-19 
 6. Shimane SM 27-24 
 7. Oita H.Devils 22-29 
 8. Miyazaki SS 22-29 
 9. Takamatsu FA 2-49 

Regular Season: Round 57

Apr. 28: Osaka Evessa - Shiga L-Stars 89-84
Apr. 28: Shinshu BW - Hamamatsu P. 87-90
Apr. 28: Takamatsu FA - Oita H.Devils 82-83
Apr. 28: Iwate Big Bulls - Chiba Jets 82-77
Apr. 28: Miyazaki SS - Shimane SM 75-97
Apr. 28: Saitama Bron. - Niigata Albirex 75-74
Apr. 28: Fukuoka Rizing - Kyoto Hannar. 67-82
Apr. 28: Toyama Grouses - Okinawa GK 64-85
Apr. 28: Sendai 89ers - Yokohama BC 61-62


BJ League Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Michael PARKER
  Shimane SM
  (202-F-81)
  Avg: 23.2
 1. Parker, Shimane SM23.2 
 2. Palmer, Fukuoka21.7 
 3. Hargrow, Chiba J.21.6 
 4. Staten, Chiba Jets21.1 
 5. Cummings, Oita H.20.9 
 6. Woods, Akita NH20.7 
 7. Flowers, Saitama19.4 
 8. Burrell, Yokohama.18.8 
 9. Fitzgerald, Sendai18.8 
 10. White, Oita H.18.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Chris HOLM
  Niigata Albirex
  (212-C/F-84)
  Avg: 14.5
 1. Holm, Niigata Albi.14.5 
 2. Hamilton, Fukuok.11.3 
 3. Staten, Chiba Jets10.9 
 4. Searcy, Toyama G.10.8 
 5. Rickert, Kyoto H.10.8 
 6. Malloy, Iwate B.10.5 
 7. Mims, Sendai 89ers10.4 
 8. Roberts, Shins.10.2 
 9. Burrell, Yokohama.10.0 
 10. Bell, Osaka Eves.10.0 
Assists Per Game
 Kenny SATTERFIELD
  Saitam.
  (188-PG-81)
  Avg: 6.7
 1. Satterfield, Saita.6.7 
 2. Takushi, Oita H.5.8 
 3. Gardener, Akita NH5.6 
 4. Shimura, Sendai5.4 
 5. Dixon, Hamamats.5.2 
 6. Yamamoto, Shima.4.8 
 7. Dukes, Sendai 89e.4.6 
 8. Yamamoto, Iwate B.4.5 
 9. Staten, Chiba Jets4.3 
 10. Namizato, Okina.4.2 
Steals Per Game
 Jamel STATEN
  Chiba Jets
  (198-G-83)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Staten, Chiba Jets2.8 
 2. Palmer, Fukuoka2.6 
 3. Parker, Shimane SM2.4 
 4. Smith, Takamats.2.1 
 5. Humphrey, Saitama2.0 
 6. Lyons, Miyazaki SS2.0 
 7. Klaiber, Iwate B.1.8 
 8. Dixon, Hamamats.1.8 
 9. Arnold, Hamamats.1.8 
 10. Joho, Toyama G.1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Jeral DAVIS
  Shimane SM
  (216-C-84)
  Avg: 3.7
 1. Davis, Shimane SM3.7 
 2. Singleton, Sendai3.0 
 3. Blackledge, Osaka3.0 
 4. Broxsie, Chiba Jets2.6 
 5. Blackledge, Hamama.2.2 
 6. Hughes, Shinshu BW1.6 
 7. Marshall, Osaka E.1.6 
 8. Mims, Sendai 89ers1.6 
 9. Dukes, Sendai 89e.1.4 
 10. Moliva, Chiba Jets1.4 


Japanese BJ League round 57 best performance: Michael Bell - by Eurobasket News

American forward Michael Bell (206-F-82) put on an amazing game in the last round for second-ranked Osaka Evessa, receiving a Asia-basket.com BJ League Player of the Week award for round 57.
The 29-year old player had a double-double of 17 points and 20 rebounds, while his team beat Shiga L-Stars (#4, 33-18) 89-84. The game was between two of the league's top four teams. Osaka Evessa maintains the 2nd position in Japanese BJ League. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Osaka Evessa will need more victories to improve their 34-17 record. Bell just recently signed at Osaka Evessa, being already a very valuable addition to the team. Michael Bell averages this season 14.4ppg and 10.0rpg.

The second best player in last round's games was 30-year old American Dexter Lyons (198-F/G-81, agency: I.D.S. Law) of Miyazaki SS. Lyons had a very good evening with a double-double of 28 points and 12 rebounds. Bad luck as Miyazaki SS lost that game 75-97 to slightly higher-ranked Shimane SM (#6, 27-24). This loss caused Miyazaki SS to drop to 8th position in the standings. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 22-29 record. Lyons is a newcomer at Miyazaki SS, but is already one of team's top players.

Third on the list of top players last round was American guard Wendell White (198-G-84) of Oita H.Devils (#7). White showcased his all-around game by recording 23 points, sixteen rebounds (!!!) and five assists in the last round. He was a key player of Oita H.Devils, leading his team to a 83-82 win against slightly lower-ranked Takamatsu FA (#9, 2-49). The chances of Oita H.Devils ranking at the top of the league, however are very questionable as they have already lost 29 games, recording just twenty two victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, White could help Oita H.Devils to bring them higher in the standings. White has a very solid season. In 42 games in Japan he scored 18.7ppg. He also has 9.7rpg and FGP: 51.6%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Kevin Palmer (198-G/F-87) of Fukuoka Rizing - 34 points and 11 rebounds
5. Michael Parker (202-F-81) of Shimane SM - 30 points, 4 rebounds and 5 assists
6. T.J. Cummings (205-F-81) of Oita H.Devils - 31 points and 8 rebounds
7. Benjamin Puckett (205-F-83) of Shimane SM - 19 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists
8. John Humphrey (188-G/F-80) of Saitama Bron. - 32 points and 7 rebounds
9. Chris Holm (212-C/F-84) of Niigata Albirex - 13 points and 14 rebounds
10. Tyler Hughes (213-F-84) of Shinshu BW - 10 points and 13 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)


BJ League Round 57: Hamamatsu Phoenix defeats Shinshu BW in the closest game of the week - by Eurobasket News

There will be only one (last) round of the Regular Season in BJ League. There was no lack of interesting games this round. The round ended with favorites losing the games and games ending by tiny margin.

Seventh-ranked Shinshu BW (18-33) gave a tough game to first ranked Hamamatsu Phoenix (36-15) in Nagano on Saturday. The visitors from Mikawa managed to secure only three-point victory 90-87. However their fans expected much easier game. The guests trailed by 13 points after three quarters before their 30-14 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Hamamatsu Phoenix forced 20 Shinshu BW turnovers. Americans were the main players on the court. Guard Jermaine Dixon (191-87, college: Pittsburgh, agency: VVG Sports) stepped up and scored 24 points, 7 assists and 4 steals for the winners and forward Jeffrey Parmer (203-85, college: Florida Atlantic, agency: Dynamics Global Management) chipped in 12 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists. The best for the losing side was power forward Lee Roberts (201-87, college: Findlay, OH) with a double-double by scoring 13 points and 15 rebounds. Hamamatsu Phoenix have a solid series of four victories in a row. Defending champion maintains first place with 36-15 record. Shinshu BW lost sixth consecutive game. They keep the seventh position with 33 games lost. They share it with Iwate Big Bulls and Chiba Jets. Hamamatsu Phoenix will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Shinshu BW will play again at home against the league's leader Hamamatsu Phoenix (#1) in Mikawa and is hoping to prove to their supporters that they can break losing series.
Sixth-ranked Sendai 89ers (25-26) gave a tough game to second ranked Yokohama BC (30-21). The visitors from Yokohama managed to secure only one-point victory 62-61. However their fans expected much easier game. Americans were the main players on the court also this time. Forward Justin Burrell (206-88, college: St.John's) nailed a double-double by scoring 13 points and 13 rebounds for the winning side and Chas McFarland accounted for 10 points and 8 rebounds. Center Rashaad Singleton (213-87, college: Florida Southern) came up with a double-double by scoring 14 points and 13 rebounds for Sendai 89ers in the defeat. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Yokohama BC have an impressive series of nine victories in a row. They maintain second place with 30-21 record having six points less than leader Okinawa GK. Sendai 89ers lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the fifth position with 26 games lost. They share it with Toyama Grouses. Yokohama BC will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Sendai 89ers will play again at home against the league's second-placed Yokohama BC (#2) and hope to get back on the winning track.
The game between Top Four teams took place in Osaka. Second ranked host Osaka Evessa (34-17) defeated 4th placed Shiga L-Stars (33-18) 89-84. The best player for the winners was Michael Bell who had a double-double by scoring 17 points and 20 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was Dionisio Gomez Camargo who recorded 14 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. Both coaches tested many bench players in such tough game. Osaka Evessa maintains second place with 34-17 record having just two points less than leader Okinawa GK, which they share with Kyoto Hannar. Shiga L-Stars at the other side keep the fourth position with 18 games lost. Osaka Evessa will again meet at home Shiga L-Stars (#4) in the next round. Shiga L-Stars will have a break next round.
BJ League top team - Okinawa GK (38-13) had no problems winning another game. This time they crushed fifth ranked Toyama Grouses (25-26) 85-64. The game was dominated by American players. It was a good game for Dillion Sneed who led his team to a victory with 22 points. Okinawa GK's coach felt very confident that he used 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The victory was the third consecutive win for Okinawa GK. They maintain first place with 38-13 record. Toyama Grouses at the other side keep the fifth position with 26 games lost. Okinawa GK will have a break next round. Toyama Grouses will play again at home against the league's leader Okinawa GK (#1).
The game in Fukuoka was also quite interesting. Third ranked Kyoto Hannar. (34-17) played at the court of 5th ranked Fukuoka Rizing (32-19). Kyoto Hannar. defeated Fukuoka Rizing 82-67 on Saturday. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Fukuoka Rizing. Jermaine Boyette stepped up and scored 14 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. Kyoto Hannar.'s coach Honoo Hamaguchi used an eleven-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. The victory was the third consecutive win for Kyoto Hannar.. They moved-up to second place, which they share with Osaka Evessa. Loser Fukuoka Rizing keeps the fifth position with 19 games lost. Kyoto Hannar. will have a break next round. Fukuoka Rizing will play again at home against Kyoto Hannar. (#3) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

There were no shocking results in the rest of the games of round 57: Oita H.Devils won against Takamatsu FA on the opponent's court 83-82. Miyazaki SS was outscored by Shimane SM in a home game 75-97. Niigata Albirex recorded a loss to Saitama Bron. on the road 75-74. Iwate Big Bulls defeated Chiba Jets on its own court 82-77.
The most impressive stats of the last round was 28 points and 12 rebounds by Dexter Lyons of Miyazaki SS.

Takamatsu FA - Oita H.Devils 82-83

The game between closely ranked teams ended with 9th ranked Takamatsu FA's (2-49) home loss to eighth ranked Oita Heat Devils (22-29) 82-83 on Saturday. Takamatsu FA was tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. American guard Wendell White (198-84, college: UNLV) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 23 points, 16 rebounds and 5 assists for the winners and his fellow American import forward T.J. Cummings (205-81, college: UCLA, agency: Top Notch Sports) chipped in 31 points and 8 rebounds. The best for the losing side was American power forward Paul Butorac (208-83, college: E.Washington) with a double-double by scoring 26 points and 12 rebounds and swingman Hiroyuki Kikuchi (192-83) scored 20 points and 8 rebounds. Four Takamatsu FA players scored in double figures. Oita Heat Devils moved-up to seventh place, which they share with Miyazaki SS. Takamatsu FA lost their eighteenth game in a row. They keep the ninth position with 49 games lost. Oita Heat Devils will have a break next round. Takamatsu FA will play again at home against Oita Heat Devils (#7) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Oita H.Devils: T.Cummings 31+8reb, W.White 23+16reb+5ast, T.Finger 9+8reb+1ast, M.Lottich 7+4reb+2ast, N.Takushi 6+4reb+7ast, M.Ohara 4+4reb+2ast
Takamatsu FA: P.Butorac 26+12reb+3ast, H.Kikuchi 20+8reb+2ast, M.Kita 14+1reb+1ast, N.Williams 12+10reb+2ast, S.Takada 8+5reb+2ast, M.Suzuki 2+5reb+5ast
gschID: 142325


Fukuoka Rizing - Kyoto Hannar. 67-82

The game in Fukuoka was also quite interesting. Third ranked Kyoto Hannar. (34-17) played at the court of 5th ranked Fukuoka Rizing (32-19). Kyoto Hannar. defeated Fukuoka Rizing 82-67 on Saturday. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Fukuoka Rizing. The game was mostly controlled by Kyoto Hannar.. Fukuoka Rizing was better in second period 18-10. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. American guard Jermaine Boyette (188-78, college: Weber St., agency: SportsTalent) stepped up and scored 14 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners and swingman Taizon Kawabe (190-82) chipped in 22 points (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field). Kyoto Hannar.'s coach Honoo Hamaguchi used an eleven-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. The best for the losing side was American swingman Kevin Palmer (198-87, college: Texas A&M-CC, agency: VVG Sports) with a double-double by scoring 34 points (!!!) and 11 rebounds and the other American import swingman Carlos Dixon (201-81, college: Virginia Tech, agency: Top Notch Sports) scored 18 points and 8 rebounds (went 9 for 9 at the free throw line !!!). The victory was the third consecutive win for Kyoto Hannar.. They moved-up to second place, which they share with Osaka Evessa. Loser Fukuoka Rizing keeps the fifth position with 19 games lost. Kyoto Hannar. will have a break next round. Fukuoka Rizing will play again at home against Kyoto Hannar. (#3) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Kyoto Hannar.: T.Kawabe 22+1ast, J.Boyette 14+7reb+4ast, N.Nakamura 12+1reb+1ast, R.Rickert 8+9reb, L.Allred 7+3reb+3ast, L.Cummard 7+5reb+3ast
Fukuoka Rizing: K.Palmer 34+11reb+1ast, C.Dixon 18+8reb+1ast, G.Hamilton 6+9reb+3ast, S.Ishitani 5+3reb+2ast, J.Nakanishi 2+4reb, J.Dearman 2+4reb+2ast
gschID: 142326


Miyazaki SS - Shimane SM 75-97

The game between closely ranked teams ended with sixth ranked Shimane Magic's (27-24) road victory over 7th ranked Miyazaki Shining Suns (22-29) 97-75 on Saturday. The guests trailed by 4 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 3-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 97-75. Shimane Magic dominated down low during the game scoring 58 of its points in the paint compared to Miyazaki Shining Suns' 30. It was a great shooting night for Shimane Magic especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 57.9 percentage. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. American forward Michael Parker (202-81, college: Evergreen St.) stepped up and scored 30 points and 5 assists for the winners and his fellow American import forward Benjamin Puckett (205-83, college: Clayton St., agency: I.D.S. Law) chipped in 19 points and 7 rebounds (on 8-of-9 shooting from the field). Coach 's team controlled all game and the coach could let to play 10 players saving starting five for next games. The best for the losing side was American swingman Dexter Lyons (198-81, college: Cent.Florida, agency: I.D.S. Law) with a double-double by scoring 28 points and 12 rebounds and guard Taishiro Shimizu (183-81) scored 12 points and 5 assists. Shimane Magic moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Niigata Albirex. Loser Miyazaki Shining Suns keep the seventh position with 29 games lost. Shimane Magic will have a break next round. Miyazaki Shining Suns will play again at home against Shimane Magic (#6) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Shimane SM: M.Parker 30+4reb+5ast, B.Puckett 19+7reb+2ast, M.Williams 16+3reb+4ast, J.Nakama 9+6reb+2ast, J.Davis 7+8reb, K.Yamabuchi 7+2reb+5ast
Miyazaki SS: D.Lyons 28+12reb+2ast, Y.Tsubasa 13+3ast, T.Shimizu 12+1reb+5ast, L.Witcher 9+8reb+1ast, Y.Kojima 6+7reb+3ast, O.Shinnosuke 4+1reb+1ast
gschID: 142327


Sendai 89ers - Yokohama BC 61-62

Sixth-ranked Sendai 89ers (25-26) gave a tough game to second ranked Yokohama BC (30-21). The visitors from Yokohama managed to secure only one-point victory 62-61. However their fans expected much easier game. Sendai 89ers were ahead by 2 points after three quarters before a 18-15 charge of Yokohama BC, which allowed them to win the game. Americans were the main players on the court also this time. Forward Justin Burrell (206-88, college: St.John's) nailed a double-double by scoring 13 points and 13 rebounds for the winning side and center Chas McFarland (213-86, college: Wake Forest) accounted for 10 points and 8 rebounds. Center Rashaad Singleton (213-87, college: Florida Southern) came up with a double-double by scoring 14 points and 13 rebounds and forward Daniel Fitzgerald (206-84, college: Marquette) added 22 points and 5 rebounds respectively for Sendai 89ers in the defeat. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Yokohama BC have an impressive series of nine victories in a row. They maintain second place with 30-21 record having six points less than leader Okinawa GK. Sendai 89ers lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the fifth position with 26 games lost. They share it with Toyama Grouses. Yokohama BC will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Sendai 89ers will play again at home against the league's second-placed Yokohama BC (#2) and hope to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Yokohama BC: J.Burrell 13+13reb+3ast, C.McFarland 10+8reb+1ast, M.Kabaya 9+6reb+2ast, M.Simmons 8+3reb+2ast, D.Burns 7+2reb+4ast, K.Yamada 5+4reb
Sendai 89ers: D.Fitzgerald 22+5reb, R.Singleton 14+13reb, J.Dukes 14+5reb+3ast, T.Komoda 9+2reb, D.Takaoka 2+2reb, Y.Tachibana 0+1reb
gschID: 142320


Toyama Grouses - Okinawa GK 64-85

BJ League top team - Okinawa GK (38-13) had no problems winning another game. This time they crushed fifth ranked Toyama Grouses (25-26) 85-64. The game without a history. Okinawa GK led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Okinawa GK had a 36-24 advantage in offensive rebounds. The game was dominated by American players. It was a good game for center Dillion Sneed (203-84, college: E.Tenn.St., agency: Top Notch Sports) who led his team to a victory with 22 points. Forward David Palmer (201-82, college: S.Utah) contributed with a double-double by scoring 13 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Okinawa GK's coach felt very confident that he used 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Power forward Devin Searcy (208-89, college: Dayton, agency: Pro One Sports) answered with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 16 rebounds and swingman Brian Harper (206-85, college: Paine, agency: Pro One Sports) added 14 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Toyama Grouses. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. The victory was the third consecutive win for Okinawa GK. They maintain first place with 38-13 record. Toyama Grouses at the other side keep the fifth position with 26 games lost. Okinawa GK will have a break next round. Toyama Grouses will play again at home against the league's leader Okinawa GK (#1).
Top scorers:
Okinawa GK: D.Sneed 22+4reb+2ast, D.Palmer 13+10reb+2ast, A.McHenry 12+2reb+2ast, N.Kosuge 12+3reb+2ast, D.Larkai 6+7reb, J.Newton 6+5reb+1ast
Toyama Grouses: D.Searcy 18+16reb, B.Harper 14+6reb+2ast, M.Joho 13+2reb, I.Brown 12+4reb+3ast, T.Mito 7+2reb+1ast, K.Takano 0+1ast
gschID: 142321


Shinshu BW - Hamamatsu P. 87-90

Seventh-ranked Shinshu BW (18-33) gave a tough game to first ranked Hamamatsu Phoenix (36-15) in Nagano on Saturday. The visitors from Mikawa managed to secure only three-point victory 90-87. However their fans expected much easier game. The guests trailed by 13 points after three quarters before their 30-14 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Hamamatsu Phoenix forced 20 Shinshu BW turnovers. Americans were the main players on the court. Guard Jermaine Dixon (191-87, college: Pittsburgh, agency: VVG Sports) stepped up and scored 24 points, 7 assists and 4 steals for the winners and forward Jeffrey Parmer (203-85, college: Florida Atlantic, agency: Dynamics Global Management) chipped in 12 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists. The best for the losing side was power forward Lee Roberts (201-87, college: Findlay, OH) with a double-double by scoring 13 points and 15 rebounds and power forward Edward Morris (205-84, college: Pittsburg St.) scored 19 points and 6 rebounds. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. Hamamatsu Phoenix have a solid series of four victories in a row. Defending champion maintains first place with 36-15 record. Shinshu BW lost sixth consecutive game. They keep the seventh position with 33 games lost. They share it with Iwate Big Bulls and Chiba Jets. Hamamatsu Phoenix will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Shinshu BW will play again at home against the league's leader Hamamatsu Phoenix (#1) in Mikawa and is hoping to prove to their supporters that they can break losing series.
Top scorers:
Hamamatsu P.: J.Dixon 24+2reb+7ast, L.Pomare 14+9reb, S.Nakanishi 13+2reb, W.Arnold 12+5reb+1ast, J.Parmer 12+8reb+4ast, S.Okada 6+2reb+1ast
Shinshu BW: D.Raivio 20+1reb+2ast, E.Morris 19+6reb, L.Roberts 13+15reb+1ast, T.Goya 12+2reb+4ast, T.Hughes 10+13reb, T.Utsunomiya 8
gschID: 142322


Saitama Bron. - Niigata Albirex 75-74

There was an upset when 4th placed Niigata Albirex (27-24) was edged on the road by tenth ranked Saitama Broncos (16-35) 75-74 on Saturday. The hosts trailed by 8 points after first quarter, but they rallied back winning two of next three quarters and won the game by 1 point. The game was also dominated by American players. Swingman John Humphrey (188-80, college: Middle Tenn.St., agency: Court Side) stepped up and scored 32 points and 7 rebounds for the winners and forward Jayme Miller (203-85) chipped in 18 points and 12 rebounds. The best for the losing side was power forward Chris Holm (212-84, college: Vermont) with a double-double by scoring 13 points and 14 rebounds and guard Nile Murry (193-83, college: TCU) scored 16 points and 5 rebounds. Niigata Albirex's coach Matt Garrison rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Saitama Broncos maintains tenth place with 16-35 record. Loser Niigata Albirex keeps the fourth position with 24 games lost. Saitama Broncos will face again higher ranked Niigata Albirex (#4) at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
Top scorers:
Saitama Bron.: J.Humphrey 32+7reb+1ast, J.Miller 18+12reb, Y.Kitamuki 7+4reb+6ast, M.Haraguchi 5+2reb+1ast, J.Porter 5+7reb, D.Terashita 5+2reb+3ast
Niigata Albirex: N.Murry 16+5reb+3ast, C.Holm 13+14reb, B.Davis 12+10reb+1ast, D.Gordon 7+2reb+4ast, S.Komatsu 7+2reb+2ast, E.Maxey 6+4reb+1ast
gschID: 142323


Osaka Evessa - Shiga L-Stars 89-84

The game between Top Four teams took place in Osaka. Second ranked host Osaka Evessa (34-17) defeated 4th placed Shiga L-Stars (33-18) 89-84. The hosts trailed by 7 points after three quarters before their 28-16 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Osaka Evessa outrebounded Shiga L-Stars 41-30 including a 34-22 advantage in defensive rebounds. The best player for the winners was American forward Michael Bell (206-82, college: Florida Atlantic) who had a double-double by scoring 17 points and 20 rebounds. Guard Shota Konno (184-85) chipped in 15 points. At the other side the best for losing team was Panamanian forward Dionisio Gomez Camargo (203-80, college: Arkansas) who recorded 14 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists and guard Yu Okada (184-83) added 15 points and 4 assists respectively. Four Osaka Evessa and five Shiga L-Stars players scored in double figures. Both coaches tested many bench players in such tough game. Osaka Evessa maintains second place with 34-17 record having just two points less than leader Okinawa GK, which they share with Kyoto Hannar. Shiga L-Stars at the other side keep the fourth position with 18 games lost. Osaka Evessa will again meet at home Shiga L-Stars (#4) in the next round. Shiga L-Stars will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Osaka Evessa: M.Bell 17+20reb+1ast, S.Konno 15+3reb+2ast, S.Takeda 15, C.Aoki 11+1reb+4ast, W.Marshall 11+8reb+1ast, B.St.Preux 9+4reb+7ast
Shiga L-Stars: Y.Okada 15+2reb+4ast, D.Gomez Camargo 14+5reb+5ast, J.Ashby 12+4reb+3ast, S.Ogawa 11+2reb+5ast, R.Nixon 11+6reb+4ast, B.Markson 10+2reb+2ast
gschID: 142324


Iwate Big Bulls - Chiba Jets 82-77

We could consider it a predictable result in the game between close teams when ninth ranked Iwate Big Bulls (18-33) beat at home 8th ranked Chiba Jets (18-33) 82-77 on Saturday. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 19-12. But Chiba Jets won second period 23-17. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Iwate Big Bulls shot 26 for 39 from the free-throw line, while Chiba Jets only scored seven points from the stripe. Chiba Jets were plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. American forward Thomas Kennedy (201-87, college: Detroit Mercy, agency: SDJ Sports) stepped up and scored 27 points and 5 rebounds (went 10 for 10 at the free throw line !!!) for the winners and his fellow American import power forward LaShawn Malloy (209-84, college: New Orleans) chipped in 10 points and 14 rebounds. Four Iwate Big Bulls players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was American guard Jamel Staten (198-83, college: Minnesota St., agency: SDJ Sports) with a double-double by scoring 19 points, 15 rebounds and 7 assists and guard Takaki Ishida (188-82) scored 15 points and 5 rebounds. Chiba Jets' coach Eric Gardow rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. The victory was the fourth consecutive win for Iwate Big Bulls. They moved-up to seventh place, which they share with Chiba Jets and Shinshu BW. Chiba Jets lost their fourth game in a row. Iwate Big Bulls will face again Chiba Jets (#8) at home in the next round.
Top scorers:
Iwate Big Bulls: T.Kennedy 27+5reb, M.Sawaguchi 15+5reb+1ast, L.Malloy 10+14reb+1ast, G.Klaiber 10+13reb+2ast, J.Boykin 7+7reb, Y.Yamamoto 6+3reb+4ast
Chiba Jets: J.Staten 19+15reb+7ast, Shouta 18+2reb+1ast, T.Ishida 15+5reb+2ast, A.Broxsie 6+5reb, Y.Kosuke 5+1reb, H.Sato 4+3reb
gschID: 142319



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


OQT Campaign to begin with 20 Players - by Omar Shafaamri

as the JPL Season is about to finish, National Team Coach Thomas Baldwin made a Preliminary List of 20 Players to begin the Preparations Campaign for Olympic Qualifiyng Tournament (OQT) next July.
The List witnessed the absence of Veterans Ayman Idais & Zaid Alkhas who decided to retire from the National Team where Idais just launched his new Basketball Academy in Jordan.

Preparations will begin locally next Sunday followed by hosting West Asia Torunament in June before heading to the Republic of Dominicans for a Friendly Tournament in the same month, OQT will take place in Venezuela starting from 2nd of July where Jordan was seeded with Greece & Puerto Rico in the same group.

and here is the 20 Man List:
Wesam Al-Sous (181-G-83), Mousa Alawadi (180-G/F-85), Islam Abbaas (203-C-80), Mohammad Hadrab (203-F-84), Abdallah AbuQoura (205-F-84), Mahmoud Abdeen (191-G-87), Mohammad Hussein (213-C-90) from ASU Sports Club/
Osama Daghles (198-G-79, college: Midwestern St.), Zaid Abbas (203-F-83), Fares Saqf-AlHait (195-F-87, college: Calumet), Hasan Sinan Sen (93), Enver Soobzokov (201-G/F-78, college: CS San Bernar.) from Orthodox Amman/
Khaldon Abu Ruqayah (201-F-83), Hani Alfaraj (193-G-90), Ibrahim Bassam (204-C-87), Ahmad Alhamarsheh (195-F-90), Fadel AlNajjar (192-G-85) from Kofer Yoba Irbid/
Ali Zaghab (205-F/C-88), Mohammad Jamal (195-F-89), Ahmad Al Dwairi (210-C-93) from Al Riyadi Amman/



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

Stats Leaders

D1 Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1 Kuznetsov, Alm 14.6
2 Korshunov, Bar 14.4
3 Antonets, Bar 14.0
4 Mikheev, Tob 13.1
5 Bogdanov, Tob 13.0
Rebounds Per Game
1 Malshev, Kasp 7.7
2 Evstigneev, Bar 6.3
3 Gavrilov, Bar 5.4
4 Cakic, Astana 5.3
5 Mikheev, Tob 5.0
Steals Per Game
1 Marshall, Ast 2.0
2 Karimullin, Kas 1.6
3 Pashkov, Alm 1.5


Kaspiy take lead in consolation final series - by Eurobasket News

Kaspiy - Tobol 92:85

Kaspiy earned the first win in the D1 Bronze medals series. They overcame Tobol in Aktau. Konstantin Dvirniy (192-G-88) came up with 29 points to pace the hosts.
Tobol enjoyed a narrow 25:24 lead after ten minutes. They maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. The visitors arrived at halftime up by as many as 3 points 39:36. But Kaspiy turned the tables in the third frame. The hosts limited Tobol to 12 points in the quarter to ensure a 9-point lead before the fourth frame 60:51. Tobol erupted for 34 points in the final period but it was too late as Kaspiy held on well enough for the victory. Kyle William Pape (183-G, college: Colorado Mines) produced 16 points, while Dmitri Dogadin (204-F-81) contributed 12 points in the win. Pavel Mikheev (200-F-83) answered with 33 points and 9 rebounds for Tobol. Giedrius Kurtinaitis (192-G-86) finished with 13 points in the loss.

Kaspiy: Konstantin Dvirniy 29, Kyle William Pape 16, Dmitri Dogadin 12
Tobol: Pavel Mikheev 33, Giedrius Kurtinaitis 13


Asia-Basket.com All-Kazakhstan League Awards 2011-12 - by Eurobasket

Asia-Basket.com All-Kazakhstan League 1st Team 2011-12
#s#
Eric Williams
Williams
Jerry Johnson
Johnson
Aleksandr Kuznetsov
Kuznetsov
Dmitriy Gavrilov
Gavrilov
Yuriy Korshunov
Korshunov
#e#5

Player of the Year: Eric Williams (206-C-84) of BC Astana
Finals MVP: Rawle Marshall (200-SF-82) of BC Astana
Guard of the Year: Aleksandr Kuznetsov (192-G-84) of BK Almaty
Forward of the Year: Yuriy Korshunov (205-F-86) of Barsy Atyrau
Center of the Year: Eric Williams (206-C-84) of BC Astana
Domestic Player of the Year: Dmitriy Gavrilov (205-F-86) of Barsy Atyrau
Import of the Year: Eric Williams (206-C-84) of BC Astana
Coach of the Year: Matteo Boniciolli of BC Astana

1st Team
PG: Jerry Johnson (182-82) of BC Astana
G: Aleksandr Kuznetsov (192-84) of BK Almaty
F: Dmitriy Gavrilov (205-86) of Barsy Atyrau
F: Yuriy Korshunov (205-86) of Barsy Atyrau
C: Eric Williams (206-84) of BC Astana

2nd Team
PG: Kyle William Pape (184-86) of Kaspiy Aktau
F: Pavel Mikheev (200-83) of Tobol
SF: Rawle Marshall (200-82) of BC Astana
F/C: Mikhail Evstigneev (201-84) of Barsy Atyrau
C/F: Goran Cakic (209-80) of BC Astana

Honorable Mention
Evgeni Isakov (203-F-82) of Barsy Atyrau
Andrei Malyshev (208-C-85) of Kaspiy Aktau
Rustam Yargaliev (195-G/F-86) of BC Astana
Leonid Bondarovich (207-C-89) of Barsy Atyrau
Vyacheslav Bogdanov (200-F-83) of Tobol
Dzhanysh Adiev (190-G-93) of Kaspiy Aktau
Timur Sultanov (178-PG-81) of Tobol
Berik Ismailov (180-PG-90) of Tobol
Aleksandr Pashkov (192-G-85) of BK Almaty

All-Domestic Players Team
G: Dzhanysh Adiev (190-93) of Kaspiy Aktau
G/F: Rustam Yargaliev (195-86) of BC Astana
F: Dmitriy Gavrilov (205-86) of Barsy Atyrau
F/C: Mikhail Evstigneev (201-84) of Barsy Atyrau
C: Andrei Malyshev (208-85) of Kaspiy Aktau

All-Imports Team
PG: Jerry Johnson (182-82) of BC Astana
G: Aleksandr Kuznetsov (192-84) of BK Almaty
F: Yuriy Korshunov (205-86) of Barsy Atyrau
SF: Rawle Marshall (200-82) of BC Astana
C: Eric Williams (206-84) of BC Astana


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


Baltic League: VEF Riga celebrate Bronze - by Eurobasket News

Siauliai - VEF Riga 75:92

VEF Riga earned Baltic League Bronze medals. They overcame Siauliai tonight to step onto the pedestal. Antanas Kavaliauskas (208-C-84, agency: Interperformances, college: Texas A&M) stepped up with 24 points for VEF Riga.
Siauliai started the game aggressively. Supported by sold-out crowd at the Siauliai Arena the hosts eked out a 24:20 lead after ten minutes. But VEF Riga gained composure in the second frame. The Latvian team unleashed 30 points in the second period to establish a 50:40 halftime lead. VEF Riga limited Siauliai to just 12 points in the third term to accumulate a 15-point lead at the final intermission 68:53. The hosts never recovered in the fourth term as VEF Riga cruised to the victory at the end. Kristaps Janicenoks (196-F-83) finished with 16 points, while Donatas Zavackas (203-F-80, college: Pittsburgh) produced 15 points in the win. Darius Gvezdauskas (191-PG-88) answered with 20 points for Siauliai. Vitali Liutych (198-G/F-92) had 13 points in the loss.

Siauliai: Darius Gvezdauskas 20, Vitali Liutych 13
VEF Riga: Antanas Kavaliauskas 24, Kristaps Janicenoks 16, Donatas Zavackas 15


*****************************************************
  LIGA AMERICAS   

Standings

Liga Americas Final Four Standings
Group G
 1. Pioneros 2-1 
 2. La Union 2-1 
 3. Obras 1-2 
 4. Uniceub/BRB 1-2 
Stage Two Standings

Finals: Round 3

Apr. 29: Pioneros - Obras 87-79
Apr. 29: La Union - Uniceub/BRB 100-85



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


Baltic League: Zalgiris outscore Lietuvos Rytas in Final - by Eurobasket News

Zalgiris - Lietuvos Rytas 74:70

Zalgiris registered victory in the Baltic League Final. They shot down Lietuvos Rytas to claim the title for the third time in a row. Mantas Kalnietis (196-G-86, agency: Interperformances) stepped up with 19 points to pace the winners.
Lietuvos Rytas spurred ahead in the first term. Nearly perfect offense propelled the Vilnius team to a 26:22 lead after ten minutes. Zalgiris changed the complexion of the game in the second frame. They shut down their opponents defensively limiting those to only 10 points. Zalgiris erased the deficit and eventually posted a 42:36 halftime lead. Zalgiris maintained the lead throughout the third term. They arrived at the final intermission up by as many as 5 points 59:54. Marko Popovic (185-G-82, agency: Alti Sport, college: S.Idaho JC) gave Zalgiris a 12-point lead midway through the final term 70:58. Javtokas then converted a layup to stretch the margin to 14-point mark. But Lietuvos Rytas answered with a 9:0 run to narrow the gap. Tyrese Rice (185-PG-87, agency: Priority Sports, college: Boston Coll.) dragged the Vilnius team within 4 points with 19 seconds remaining however Lietuvos Rytas failed to capitalize on Jankunas turnover and Zalgiris hang on to win the battle. Mindaugas Kuzminskas (205-F-89) and Marko Popovic provided 11 points each for Zalgiris. Tyrese Rice answered with 20 points for Lietuvos Rytas. Predrag Samardziski (214-C-86, agency: Beo Basket) added 15 points and 8 rebounds in the loss.

Zalgiris: Mantas Kalnietis 19, Marko Popovic 11, Mindaugas Kuzminskas 11
Lietuvos Rytas: Tyrese Rice 20, Predrag Samardziski 15


Baltic League: VEF Riga celebrate Bronze - by Eurobasket News

Siauliai - VEF Riga 75:92

VEF Riga earned Baltic League Bronze medals. They overcame Siauliai tonight to step onto the pedestal. Antanas Kavaliauskas (208-C-84, agency: Interperformances, college: Texas A&M) stepped up with 24 points for VEF Riga.
Siauliai started the game aggressively. Supported by sold-out crowd at the Siauliai Arena the hosts eked out a 24:20 lead after ten minutes. But VEF Riga gained composure in the second frame. The Latvian team unleashed 30 points in the second period to establish a 50:40 halftime lead. VEF Riga limited Siauliai to just 12 points in the third term to accumulate a 15-point lead at the final intermission 68:53. The hosts never recovered in the fourth term as VEF Riga cruised to the victory at the end. Kristaps Janicenoks (196-F-83) finished with 16 points, while Donatas Zavackas (203-F-80, college: Pittsburgh) produced 15 points in the win. Darius Gvezdauskas (191-PG-88) answered with 20 points for Siauliai. Vitali Liutych (198-G/F-92) had 13 points in the loss.

Siauliai: Darius Gvezdauskas 20, Vitali Liutych 13
VEF Riga: Antanas Kavaliauskas 24, Kristaps Janicenoks 16, Donatas Zavackas 15


*****************************************************
  MALAYSIA   


ASEAN League: Dragons nip Patriots away from home - by Eurobasket News

Philippine Patriots - Westports Dragons 93:97 (OT)

Westports Dragons surprised one of the league leaders Philippine Patriots on the road tonight. Tiras Wade (200-F-81, agency: Interperformances, college: La-Lafayette) scored 34 points to lead the visitors to an overtime victory. The win propelled the Dragons at 10-9 record and they share the third position with the Warriors. The Patriots slipped at 14-5 record in the second position.
The visitors stunned the Patriots in the opening frame. The Dragons went on a 26:16 run to gain a comfortable lead. The Malaysian team maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. They arrived at halftime up by 11 points 50:39. The Patriots showed signs of recovery in the third term. The home team cut the deficit to 6 points before the fourth quarter. The Patriots narrowed the deficit and finally Al Vergara (173-G-79) sent the game into overtime hitting a free throw late in regulation. Tiras Wade knocked down 8 points in the extra frame bringing victory for the visitors. Brian Williams (208-C-87, agency: VVG Sports, college: Tennessee) accounted for 30 points and 18 rebounds, while Patrick Cabahug (186-G) added 17 points in the win. Anthony Johnson (197-G/F-79, agency: Interperformances, college: La-Lafayette) replied with 26 points and 12 rebounds for the Patriots. Al Vergara produced 19 points in the loss.

Philippine Patriots: Anthony Johnson 26+12 boards, Al Vergara 19
Westports Dragons: Tiras Wade 34, Brian Williams 30+18 boards, Patrick Cabahug 17


*****************************************************
  MEXICO   

Standings - CIBACOPA

CIBACOPA Standings
 1. Hermosillo 22-4 
 2. Guaymas 20-6 
 3. Tijuana 19-7 
 4. Nogales 13-13 
 5. Cananea 12-14 
 6. Guasave 12-14 
 7. Los Mochis 11-15 
 8. Culiacan 10-16 
 9. Navolato 9-17 
 10. Tepic 2-24 

Regular Season: Round 26

Apr. 28: Navolato - Nogales 87-79
Apr. 28: Tepic - Culiacan 85-94
Apr. 28: Guaymas - Tijuana 83-77
Apr. 28: Hermosillo - Guasave 116-101
Apr. 28: Cananea - Los Mochis 113-107

Regular Season: Round 27

May. 1: Guaymas - Tepic
May. 1: Cananea - Culiacan
May. 1: Tijuana - Hermosillo
May. 1: Guasave - Nogales
May. 1: Los Mochis - Navolato


CIBACOPA Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Rob ROBINSON
  Culiacan
  (203-F-87)
  Avg: 23
 1. Robinson, Culiacan23.0 
 2. McCullough, Nogales22.6 
 3. Thomas, Cananea21.8 
 4. Selleaze, Navolato20.9 
 5. Carter, Guasave20.5 
 6. Wiley, Los Mochis19.8 
 7. Habel, Guaymas18.6 
 8. Johnson, Guaymas17.8 
 9. Gibson, Navolato17.8 
 10. Riley, Tepic17.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Deangelo RILEY
  Tepic
  (205-C-)
  Avg: 11.1
 1. Riley, Tepic11.1 
 2. Sanders-F., Nogales8.9 
 3. Selleaze, Navolato8.8 
 4. Robinson, Culiacan8.2 
 5. Zamora, Culiacan7.7 
 6. Lopez, Hermosillo7.6 
 7. Wiley, Los Mochis7.1 
 8. Habel, Guaymas7.0 
 9. Strobbe, Nogales7.0 
 10. Moore, Guasave7.0 
Assists Per Game
 Tayloe TAYLOR
  Los Mochis
  (191-G-86)
  Avg: 5.8
 1. Taylor, Los Mochis5.8 
 2. Nungaray, Guaymas5.7 
 3. Monreal, Hermosillo5.2 
 4. Harris, Cananea4.2 
 5. Riley, Tepic4.1 
 6. Pulido, Culiacan3.7 
 7. McSwine, Navolato3.5 
 8. Reatiga, Navolato3.3 
 9. Gibson, Navolato3.2 
 10. Quintero, Tijuana3.2 
Steals Per Game
 Matthew GIBSON
  Navolato
  (196-G-84)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Gibson, Navolato1.8 
 2. Buelna, Guasave1.6 
 3. Riley, Tepic1.6 
 4. Pulido, Culiacan1.5 
 5. Thomas, Cananea1.5 
 6. Reatiga, Navolato1.4 
 7. Giron, Guasave1.3 
 8. Monreal, Hermosillo1.3 
 9. Heredia, Nogales1.2 
 10. Robinson, Culiacan1.1 
Blocks Per Game
 Deangelo RILEY
  Tepic
  (205-C-)
  Avg: 3.7
 1. Riley, Tepic3.7 
 2. Habel, Guaymas1.3 
 3. Zamora, Culiacan1.3 
 4. Robinson, Culiacan1.1 
 5. Wiley, Los Mochis1.0 
 6. McCullough, Nogales0.8 
 7. Johnson, Guaymas0.7 
 8. Verdugo, Navolato0.7 
 9. Giron, Guasave0.6 
 10. Hugee, Tijuana0.6 


Thomas number one in Mexico for round 26 - by Eurobasket News

American forward Derek Thomas (193-F-84) had an amazing evening in the last round for Cananea, receiving a Latinbasket.com Player of the Week award for round 26.
The 27-year old player had a double-double of 40 points and 11 rebounds, while his team beat Los Mochis (#7, 11-15) 113-107. Cananea is placed at 5th position in Mexican CIBACOPA. Cananea 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 12-14 record. In the team's last game Thomas had a remarkable 85.7% from 2-point range and got three three-pointers out of 6 attempts. He turned to be Cananea's top player in his first season with the team. Former Appalachian State University star has very solid stats this year. Thomas is in league's top in points (3rd best: 21.0ppg) and averages impressive 62.1% FGP and 40.2% from behind 3-point line.

The second best player in last round's games was 27-year old American Devon Pearson (198-F-84) of Los Mochis. Pearson had a very good evening with a double-double of 27 points and 14 rebounds. Bad luck as Los Mochis lost that game 107-113 to slightly higher-ranked Cananea (#5, 12-14). Los Mochis managed to keep the same 7th spot in the standings. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 11-15 record. Pearson is one of the most experienced players at Los Mochis and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players.

Third on the list of top players last round was American center Deangelo Riley (205-C) of Tepic (#10). Riley got into 30-points club by scoring exactly 30 points in the last round. He went also for ten rebounds . Despite Riley's great performance Tepic lost 85-94 to slightly higher-ranked Culiacan (#8, 10-16). But his team cannot count on just a single shooter as he also needs help of the other teammates. Tepic can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have extremely bad season and 2-24 record places them at the very bottom of the standings. Too bad for Riley he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Riley has individually a great season in Mexico. After 16 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 11.2rpg (#1 in league) and assists with 4.1apg (4th best). He also has 3.8bpg and FGP: 53.2%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Jerome Habel (208-F-85) of Guaymas - 27 points and 12 rebounds
5. Emmanuel Little (196-F-85) of Hermosillo - 17 points, 6 rebounds and 12 assists
6. Eniel Polynice (195-G-88) of Guasave - 25 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists
7. Jose Arturo Farrera Chantiri (204-C-85) of Cananea - 25 points and 5 rebounds
8. Jesus Lopez (205-F-83) of Hermosillo - 25 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists
9. Carlos M. Toussaint (190-G-91) of Los Mochis - 31 points and 2 assists
10. Jorge Camacho (200-F-89) of Hermosillo - 19 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists

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


CIBACOPA Round 26: Tijuana Zonkeys lose to Ostioneros de Guaymas in the game between Top 4 teams - by Eurobasket News

The game between Top Four teams took place in Guaymas. Second ranked host Ostioneros de Guaymas (20-6) defeated one of their biggest challengers Tijuana Zonkeys (19-7) 83-77. The hosts trailed by 4 points at the halftime before their 46-36 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Ostioneros de Guaymas outrebounded Tijuana Zonkeys 39-25 including 29 on the defensive glass. American forward Jerome Habel (208-85, college: San Diego St.) had a double-double by scoring 27 points and 12 rebounds (was perfect 9-for-9 from the free throw line !!!) to lead the charge for the winners and point guard Hector Nungaray (178-78) chipped in 17 points and 7 assists during the contest. American swingman Marcus Morrison (198-84, college: Middle Tenn.St.) responded with 23 points and 8 rebounds. Ostioneros de Guaymas have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain second position with 20-6 record having just two points less than leader Hermosillo. Tijuana Zonkeys at the other side keep the third place with seven games lost. Ostioneros de Guaymas are looking forward to face bottom-ranked Coras de Tepic (#10) at home in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Tijuana Zonkeys will play against the league's leader Rayos de Hermosillo (#1) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
CIBACOPA top team - Rayos de Hermosillo (22-4) managed to deliver another win. This time they beat fifth ranked Frayles de Guasave (12-14) 116-101. American forward Emmanuel Little (196-85, college: N.Dakota) notched a double-double by scoring 17 points, 6 rebounds and 12 assists (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field) to lead the effort and Jesus Lopez supported him with 25 points and 5 rebounds (on 10-of-13 shooting from the field). Even 25 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists by American guard Eniel Polynice (195-88, college: Seton Hall) did not help to save the game for Frayles de Guasave. Rayos de Hermosillo have an impressive ten-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 22-4 record. Frayles de Guasave at the other side keeps the fifth place with 14 games lost. They share the position with Cananea. Rayos de Hermosillo will play against Tijuana Zonkeys (#3) on the road in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Frayles de Guasave will play against Fuerza Guinda Nogales and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
An interesting game took place in Navolato where higher ranked Fuerza Guinda Nogales (13-13) were upseton the court of ninth ranked Garra Canera de Navolato (9-17) 87-79 on Saturday. Americans were the main players on the court. The best player for the winners was Ronald Selleaze who scored 29 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. O'Louis McCullough produced 21 points for the guests. Garra Canera de Navolato maintains ninth position with 9-17 record. Loser Fuerza Guinda Nogales keep the fourth place with 13 games lost. Garra Canera de Navolato will meet higher ranked Pioneros Los Mochis (#7) on the road in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Fuerza Guinda Nogales will play against Frayles de Guasave and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

In the last two games of round 26 Culiacan won against Tepic on the opponent's court 94-85. Cananea managed to outperform Los Mochis in a home game 113-107.
The most impressive stats of the last round was 40 points (!!!) and 11 rebounds by Derek Thomas of Cananea.

Navolato - Nogales 87-79

An interesting game took place in Navolato where higher ranked Fuerza Guinda Nogales (13-13) were upseton the court of ninth ranked Garra Canera de Navolato (9-17) 87-79 on Saturday. Fuerza Guinda Nogales trailed by 11 points after 3 quarters before a 22-19 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 79-87 at the end of the game. Garra Canera de Navolato dominated down low during the game scoring 60 of its points in the paint compared to Fuerza Guinda Nogales' 40. They outrebounded Fuerza Guinda Nogales 33-22 including 20 on the defensive glass. Garra Canera de Navolato looked well-organized offensively handing out 26 assists comparing to just 13 passes made by Fuerza Guinda Nogales' players. Americans were the main players on the court. The best player for the winners was forward Ronald Selleaze (197-76, college: CSU Bakersfield, agency: Dream Team Management) who scored 29 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. Forward Charles Moore (201-86, college: S.Arkansas) chipped in 20 points and 8 rebounds. Moore is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Swingman O'Louis McCullough (198-82, college: Francis Marion) produced 21 points and guard Michael Gale (193-82, college: Centenary) added 16 points and 4 assists respectively for the guests. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Garra Canera de Navolato maintains ninth position with 9-17 record. Loser Fuerza Guinda Nogales keep the fourth place with 13 games lost. Garra Canera de Navolato will meet higher ranked Pioneros Los Mochis (#7) on the road in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Fuerza Guinda Nogales will play against Frayles de Guasave and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Navolato: R.Selleaze 29+6reb+5ast, C.Moore 20+8reb, M.Gibson 15+2reb+5ast, C.Uribe 12+5reb+4ast, J.Angel Reatiga 6+7reb+10ast, F.Verdugo 3+1reb+2ast
Nogales: O.McCullough 21+4reb+3ast, M.Gale 16+2reb+4ast, B.Heredia 14+4reb+2ast, M.Strobbe 13+2reb+2ast, K.Davis 8+6reb+2ast, J.Mercado 7+4reb
gschID: 171203


Hermosillo - Guasave 116-101

CIBACOPA top team - Rayos de Hermosillo (22-4) managed to deliver another win. This time they beat fifth ranked Frayles de Guasave (12-14) 116-101. It looked good early as Frayles de Guasave took an 1-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Rayos de Hermosillo had a 27-24 second period charge getting the lead and Frayles de Guasave was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 101-116. Rayos de Hermosillo shot 64.2 percent from the field and made 21-of-25 charity shots (84.0 percent) during the game. Rayos de Hermosillo outrebounded Frayles de Guasave 34-21 including a 27-14 advantage in defensive rebounds. It was a great shooting night for Rayos de Hermosillo especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 52.9 percentage. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 31 assists comparing to just 10 passes made by Frayles de Guasave's players. American forward Emmanuel Little (196-85, college: N.Dakota) notched a double-double by scoring 17 points, 6 rebounds and 12 assists (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field) to lead the effort and the former international forward Jesus Lopez (205-83, college: SW Baptist) supported him with 25 points and 5 rebounds (on 10-of-13 shooting from the field). Little is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Even 25 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists by American guard Eniel Polynice (195-88, college: Seton Hall) did not help to save the game for Frayles de Guasave. The former international swingman Alonso Izaguirre (200-76) added 18 points and 5 rebounds for the guests. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. Rayos de Hermosillo have an impressive ten-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 22-4 record. Frayles de Guasave at the other side keeps the fifth place with 14 games lost. They share the position with Cananea. Rayos de Hermosillo will play against Tijuana Zonkeys (#3) on the road in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Frayles de Guasave will play against Fuerza Guinda Nogales and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Hermosillo: J.Lopez 25+5reb+3ast, B.Hamilton 19+5reb+2ast, J.Camacho 19+7reb+5ast, E.Little 17+6reb+12ast, S.Monreal 14+3reb+3ast, J.Coronado 13+3reb+1ast
Guasave: E.Polynice 25+7reb+5ast, R.Carter 18+1reb+2ast, A.Izaguirre 18+5reb, D.Green 16+4reb, G.Giron 13+3reb+1ast, V.Buelna 6+1reb+1ast
gschID: 171201


Tepic - Culiacan 85-94

Rather expected game when 10th ranked Coras de Tepic (2-24) was defeated at home by eighth ranked Caballeros de Culiacan (10-16) 94-85 on Saturday. The guests started the game with a very strong first quarter 32-11. But Coras de Tepic won second period 30-17. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Americans were the main players on the court also this time. The best player for the winners was forward Rob Robinson (203-87, college: Robert Morris, agency: SDJ Sports) who had a double-double by scoring 18 points and 10 rebounds. Swingman Mychal Henderson (198-85, college: Ks Wesleyan) chipped in 21 points and 5 rebounds. Henderson is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top summer league for players who want to play basketball overseas. Four Caballeros de Culiacan players scored in double figures. Center Deangelo Riley (205, college: Azusa Pacific) produced a double-double by scoring 30 points and 10 rebounds and forward Ray Reese (196-87, college: Tulsa, agency: David Lee services) added 19 points and 10 rebounds respectively for the hosts. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Caballeros de Culiacan maintains eighth position with 10-16 record. Loser Coras de Tepic stay dead last with 24 lost games. Caballeros de Culiacan will meet higher ranked Mineros de Cananea (#5) on the road in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Coras de Tepic will play against the league's second-placed Ostioneros de Guaymas (#2) and will have a slim chance for a victory.
Top scorers:
Culiacan: M.Henderson 21+5reb+1ast, R.Robinson 18+10reb+2ast, A.Oupoh 13+1reb+7ast, R.Zamora 12+7reb+1ast, R.Navarro 8+2reb+4ast, R.Lopez 7+1reb+2ast
Tepic: D.Riley 30+10reb+3ast, R.Reese 19+10reb+2ast, K.Young 13+4reb+6ast, S.Lugo 7+2reb+1ast, E.Swanson 7+5reb+3ast, J.Orduno 6+5reb+1ast
gschID: 171202


Guaymas - Tijuana 83-77

The game between Top Four teams took place in Guaymas. Second ranked host Ostioneros de Guaymas (20-6) defeated one of their biggest challengers Tijuana Zonkeys (19-7) 83-77. The hosts trailed by 4 points at the halftime before their 46-36 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Ostioneros de Guaymas outrebounded Tijuana Zonkeys 39-25 including 29 on the defensive glass. American forward Jerome Habel (208-85, college: San Diego St.) had a double-double by scoring 27 points and 12 rebounds (was perfect 9-for-9 from the free throw line !!!) to lead the charge for the winners and point guard Hector Nungaray (178-78) chipped in 17 points and 7 assists during the contest. American swingman Marcus Morrison (198-84, college: Middle Tenn.St.) responded with 23 points and 8 rebounds and his fellow American import forward Darnell Hugee (201-85, college: Prairie View A&M, agency: Higher Level Sports) scored 24 points. Ostioneros de Guaymas have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain second position with 20-6 record having just two points less than leader Hermosillo. Tijuana Zonkeys at the other side keep the third place with seven games lost. Ostioneros de Guaymas are looking forward to face bottom-ranked Coras de Tepic (#10) at home in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Tijuana Zonkeys will play against the league's leader Rayos de Hermosillo (#1) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Guaymas: J.Habel 27+12reb, H.Nungaray 17+2reb+7ast, M.Allen 13+6reb+7ast, H.Johnson 8+9reb+2ast, J.Reyes 6+1reb, H.Carrillo 4+5reb
Tijuana: D.Hugee 24+2reb+1ast, M.Morrison 23+8reb+1ast, C.Tate 13+5reb+2ast, E.Medina 6+4reb+2ast, L.Ramirez 4, A.Solares 4+2ast
gschID: 171199


Cananea - Los Mochis 113-107

Everything could happen at the game between two tied teams. Both sixth ranked Mineros de Cananea and 7th ranked Pioneros Los Mochis had identical 11-14 record. This time Mineros de Cananea used a home court advantage and defeated the opponent from Los Mochis 113-107 on Saturday night. The hosts trailed by 1 point after three quarters before their 35-28 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Mineros de Cananea had a 13-2 advantage in offensive rebounds. The best player for the winners was American forward Derek Thomas (193-84, college: Appalachian St.) who had a double-double by scoring 40 points (!!!) and 11 rebounds. Center Jose Arturo Farrera Chantiri (204-85) chipped in 25 points and 5 rebounds. Five Mineros de Cananea players scored in double figures. American forward Devon Pearson (198-84, college: SMU) produced a double-double by scoring 27 points and 14 rebounds and his fellow American import forward Seth Scott (208-81, college: Portland St.) added 25 points and 8 rebounds respectively for the guests. Defending champion (12-14) moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Guasave. Pioneros Los Mochis lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the seventh position with 15 games lost. Mineros de Cananea will meet at home Caballeros de Culiacan (#8) in the next round. Pioneros Los Mochis will play against Garra Canera de Navolato and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Cananea: D.Thomas 40+11reb+2ast, J.Arturo Farrera Chantiri 25+5reb, C.Moore 15+3reb+3ast, F.Harris 11+5reb+8ast, M.Valenzuela 10+2reb+1ast, J.Casillas 7+4reb+1ast
Los Mochis: C.M. Toussaint 31+1reb+2ast, D.Pearson 27+14reb+3ast, S.Scott 25+8reb+1ast, T.Taylor 7+2reb+4ast, L.Felipe Diaz 7+2reb, P.Torres 4
gschID: 171200



Pioneros win Liga Americas title - by Eurobasket News

Pioneros are the new champions of Liga Americas. The Mexican squad handed 87-79 defeat to Obras last night winning the title with 2-1 record at the Final Four Tournament. The host of this event, La Union, finished with the same numbers, but Pioneros smashed them on Friday 88-70. Robert Hornsby (196-F/C-82, college: Troy) led Pioneros in crucial game against Obras with 16 points and 5 rebounds. Pedro Meza Rogel (186-G-85, college: Arizona W. CC) scored 15 points and Christopher Hernandez (188-PG-83, college: Stanford) added 14 pts. In Obras, Martin Osimani (194-G-81, college: Duquesne) was way better than the others with 26 pts. Julio Mazzaro (190-G-79) had 17 points and Juan Gutierrez (205-F/C-83) 16 scored one less. Quarters: 26-17, 17-24, 24-23, 20-15.
On Saturday, Pioneros failed in thriller against Uniceub/BRB. It was a 74-73 win for the Brazilians. As mentioned above, in the first day of the Final Four Tournament Pioneros were too strong for La Union.


Frayles de Guasave lands Polynice - by Eurobasket Center

Frayles de Guasave strengthened their roster with addition of 24-year old American guard Eniel Polynice (195-G-100kg-88, college: Seton Hall). In his first game he scored 25 points, grabbed 7 rebounds and 5 assists. Despite his good performance his new team lost to Hermosillo 101-116. Polynice played most recently at Sameji (Dominican Rep.). He just graduated Seton Hall University and it will be his first season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center


Frayles de Guasave sign Dallas Green - by Eurobasket Center

Frayles de Guasave signed 24-year old American forward Dallas Green (203-F-88, college: Robert Morris). In his first game he scored 16 points and grabbed 4 rebounds. Despite his good performance his new team lost to Hermosillo 101-116. Green played most recently at Little Rock Lightning (ABA) in the U.S. He just graduated Robert Morris University and it will be his first season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center


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


KK Teodo Tivat will test Rickey Young - by Darko Pekic

KK Teodo Tivat finished the season few days ago. The club from Southern Montenegro did not make the play-offs but they reached their season goal- Superleague qualifiaction where Milan Rondovic 's guys participated for the second year in a row. Furthermore, they have already started making plans for the upcoming season and one of the objectives is to strenghten the roster. In order to be more competitive Teodo invited some young, unexperienced, players and each of them will try to earn a spot in the 2012/2013 team.

A familiar name to the basketball fans in Southern and Northern Montenegro will participate on Teodo's try-outs. His name is Rickey Young (204-F/C-90, college: W.Virginia Tech) and he played this season in Ulcinj and Centar Bijelo Polje. Young started the season in Ulcinj and played only 4 games for the Balkan league member. Then he moved to Centar Bijelo Polje and helped the young team to make it to the EBL Qualifications. They were just a step away from the biggest success in the club's history. Now he is looking for the new challanges and Teodo seems a perfect opportunity. Rickey Young will join Teodo on Tuesday.


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


Chabab Rif Al Hoceima triumphs at the home tournament - by Eurobasket News

Chabab Rif Al Hoceima triumphs at the home tournament with 6 participating teams. This tournament, organized on the initiative of Chabab Rif Al Hoceima, had also the participation of AS Sale, USM Mounastir, Bereo Stara Zagora (Bulgaria), Assad (Qatar) and OKK Beograd (Serbia).
In Day 1 Assad beat Chabab Al Hoceima 54-51 as it became the first and the only loss of the champions.
OKK Beograd meanwhile overcame USM Mounastir 79:75. The Serbian team started with 19-17 and added massive 21-12 in the second frame. The Tunisian side however replied with 27-20 in the third quarter and looked better at the end. Both sides however notched 19 points each in the last quarter for the final result. Stanoje Knezevic (202-PF-89) top-scored for the winners with 20 points and Filip Sepa (198-SG-90, agency: Beo Basket) netted 16. Luka Milojevic (193-G-91) followed them with 14 points.
In Day 2 OKK Beograd overcame AS Sale from Morocco 85:80. The African team looked better in the first half and celebrated a 41:35 victory after two quarters. The Serbian team however looked better in the second half and reached the second victory. Stanoje Knezevic paced all the winners with 28 points.
OKK Beograd finished third in Morocco at the International Tournament. In the game for the third place OKK Beograd overcame USM Mounastir 89:77.
In the final game Chabab Rif Al Hoceima outscored Saad 78:61. The hosts rightfully clinched the title of the home tournament.


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  NAIA   


Berry, Nizam Continue Careers at Marygrove - by Stephan Ditgens

DEARBORN, Mich. -- The Marygrove College Men's Basketball program added to their outstanding 2012 class with the signing of two student-athletes on Wednesday (04/25) afternoon. Ali Berry and Hassan Nizam, a pair of signees hailing from nearby Dearborn Fordson High School, each signed a 2012-13 Letter of Intent to continue their playing careers.

Berry, a 6'4' crafty center, will add depth to the Mustangs' guard-heavy team from a season ago. The center joins a stellar cast of frontcourt teammates to commit to the Mustangs this year. A two-year target of the Mustangs, Berry helped fuel the Fordson Tractors attack throughout a senior year in which the senior notched five double-doubles. The well-rounded athlete played two seasons AAU basketball for Team Hype (2010-2011) while hitting the gridiron for a year of varsity football for the Tractors. Berry intends on majoring in accounting at Marygrove.

'Ali was a three-year varsity player who was a force in the paint defensively', said Fordson head coach Osama Abulhassan. 'He led the team in blocked shots two years in a row and recorded the most double-doubles on the team his senior year.'

Coach Sichterman on Berry: Ali will add much-needed depth to our frontcourt for next season. He is a great young man that fits our character-driven initiatives at the institution. As he moves into the college ranks, Ali will need to gain strength and work hard in the weight room in order to achieve the level of success our coaching staff has in mind for him. We have been watching Ali for two years and are very happy to have him as a part of our team heading into next season.

Nizam, a 5'10' savvy point guard, helped lead the Tractors perimeter threat after tallying over five three-pointers in three or more games during his senior season. The deep ball threat earned All-City and All-League Honorable Mention honors for his play at the conclusion of his senior campaign. Nizam joined teammate Berry on Team Hype last summer (2011) and was also a two-year target of the Mustangs coaching staff. Nizam lists education as his intended major at Marygrove.

'Hassan is a fiery team leader who takes pride in guarding the opposing team's best player. He was our leading three-point shooter and made over five threes in a game on multiple occasions', said [head coach] Abulhassan.
Coach Sichterman on Nizam: Hassan is in many ways an underestimated player that will fit in well along with Ali at Marygrove. He has the competitive fire needed for success at this level and shows plenty of pride in his game when taking on challenges on the court. He is a fundamental player that has shown plenty of improvement over the past two years we have been watching him. Like Ali, Hassan is a man of high character and we are glad to have him as a part of our program.

courtesy of Marygrove College (marygrovemustangs.com)


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  NBA   

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Kevin DURANT
  Oklah.Ci.
  (206-G/F-88)
  Avg: 28
 1. Durant, Oklah.Ci.28.0 
 2. Bryant, LA Lakers27.9 
 3. James, Miami Heat27.2 
 4. Love, Minnesota T.26.0 
 5. Westbrook, Oklah..23.7 
 6. Anthony, New Y.22.4 
 7. Wade, Miami Heat22.0 
 8. Ellis, Golde S.21.9 
 9. Rose, Chicago B.21.9 
 10. Nowitzki, Dallas21.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Dwight HOWARD
  Orlando M.
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 14.5
 1. Howard, Orlando M.14.5 
 2. Love, Minnesota T.13.4 
 3. Bynum, LA Lakers11.8 
 4. Cousins, Sacramen.11.0 
 5. Humphries, New J.11.0 
 6. Griffin, LA Clipp.10.8 
 7. Gasol, LA Lakers10.4 
 8. Gortat, Phoenix10.0 
 9. Noah, Chicago B.9.9 
 10. Chandler, New Y.9.8 
Assists Per Game
 Rajon RONDO
  Boston C.
  (185-PG-86)
  Avg: 11.7
 1. Rondo, Boston C.11.7 
 2. Nash, Phoenix Suns10.7 
 3. Paul, LA Clippers9.1 
 4. Calderon, Toron.8.8 
 5. Williams, New J.8.7 
 6. Rubio, Minnesot.8.2 
 7. Wall, Washington W.8.0 
 8. Rose, Chicago B.7.9 
 9. Parker, San A.7.7 
 10. Miller, Denver N.6.7 
Steals Per Game
 Chris PAUL
  LA Clippers
  (183-PG-85)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Paul, LA Clippers2.5 
 2. Rubio, Minnesot.2.2 
 3. Conley, Memphis G.2.2 
 4. James, Miami Heat1.9 
 5. Allen, Memphis G.1.8 
 6. Kidd, Dallas M.1.8 
 7. Millsap, Utah Jazz1.8 
 8. Rondo, Boston C.1.8 
 9. Wade, Miami Heat1.7 
 10. Ariza, N.Orleans1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Serge IBAKA
  Oklah.Ci.
  (208-C/F-89)
  Avg: 3.7
 1. Ibaka, Oklah.Ci.3.7 
 2. McGee, Washingt.2.5 
 3. Howard, Orlando M.2.1 
 4. Hibbert, Indiana P.2.1 
 5. Bynum, LA Lakers2.1 
 6. Jordan, LA Clippers2.0 
 7. Gasol, Memphis G.1.8 
 8. Biyombo, Charlott.1.8 
 9. Brand, Philadelph..1.7 
 10. Udoh, Golde S.1.7 


East and West Quarterfinals: First games - by Eurobasket News

East
Indiana P. - Orlando M. 77-81
The Orlando Magic entered Indianas building as huge underdogs and walked out talking trash. Jason Richardson (6'6''-G-81, college: Michigan St.) and Jameer Nelson (6'0''-PG-82, college: St.Joseph's) scored 17 points apiece to help sixth-seeded Orlando, playing without Dwight Howard, surprise the third-seeded Pacers 81-77 in Game 1 of the first-round Eastern Conference playoff series on Saturday night. 'Yall look real stunned,' Magic center Glen Davis (6'9''-F-86, college: LSU), Howard's replacement, yelled at the crowd as he left the court. 'Yall look real stunned.' Howard, the Magics leading scorer and the leagues top rebounder, will miss the rest of the season after having back surgery. The Magic played defense Howard would have been proud of down the stretch, overcoming a seven-point deficit by holding the Pacers scoreless for the final 4:05. 'Were all we got,' said Davis, who had 16 points and 13 rebounds. 'Were not trying to impress the doubters or make them believe. Only if we believe. When we believe, theres unlimited things that we can do. Weve been through a lot mentally, physically. Weve overcame and did a great job out there today.' Orlando coach Stan Van Gundy was fine with the chatter about his teams chances. Before the game, he joked that the best prediction he had heard was the Magic losing in five games. He quickly followed that by saying opinions don't matter. His team backed him up. Orlando took a 68-67 lead on a dunk by Earl Clark (6'9''-F-88, college: Louisville) with 9:41 remaining, but the Pacers held the Magic scoreless for nearly five minutes to take a 75-68 lead. A 3-pointer by Richardson cut Indianas lead to 77-75. The Pacers missed 3-pointers on three consecutive possessions, and Danny Granger missed two free throws with 1:14 left. Richardson made another 3-pointer to give the Magic a 78-77 lead with 1:04 to play. 'With Dwight being out, the 3-point line is what we had to take care of, and we didnt,' Pacers guard Paul George (6'9''-G/F-90, agency: Priority Sports, college: Fresno St.) said. Granger missed in close, and Orlando snagged the rebound. Nelson was fouled and made two free throws with 24.5 seconds left to give the Magic an 80-77 lead. Darren Collison (6'0''-PG-87, college: UCLA) missed a shot from near the free throw line, and Orlando rebounded. Clark missed two free throws with 12.1 seconds remaining, giving Indiana one more chance. Indiana barely got the ball inbounds, then Granger traveled with 7.5 seconds remaining. J.J. Redicks free throw at the other end finished the scoring. 'This team is full of talented players who can play hard,' Orlando forward Ryan Anderson said. 'Thats a great mix and we have each others backs. Everybody says that, you know, the underdog thing and stuff. We dont believe it. We dont look into that at all. We know how we can play and we know how good we are.' David West scored 19 points, Granger added 17 and Roy Hibbert had eight points, 13 rebounds and nine blocks for the Pacers. 'In one game, you give up what you played all season for,' West said. 'We talked about how good this team was, how dangerous they were in shooting the ball. They got us.' Indiana coach Frank Vogel expected Orlandos offensive style, which focuses on spacing the floor and shooting 3-pointers, to present a challenge. Orlando led the league in 3-pointers made and attempted during the regular season and was third in percentage (.375). He was right. Orlando fell behind by 10 in the first quarter before rallying in the second. A 3-pointer by Richardson gave Orlando a 43-40 lead, and the Magic increased that lead to 49-42 on a bucket by Nelson. The Magic led 51-44 at halftime, taking the air out of a crowd that showed up with high expectations. The Pacers made numerous atypical mistakes; among them, shooting just 9 for 15 from the free throw line. Indiana opened the second half on an 8-2 run that included a 3-pointer and a fadeaway by Granger. George Hill was fouled on a 3-pointer, and he made all three free throws to finally give Indiana a 58-57 edge and bring the crowd back into the game. Andersons 3-pointer in the final minute of the quarter, his first of the game, gave the Magic a 64-63 lead at the end of period. Indiana held Orlando to 13 points on 6-for-19 shooting in the period, but couldnt support its good defense with offensive production in the fourth. Indiana shot 30 percent in the final 12 minutes and 35 percent overall. 'We definitely let this one get away,' George said. 'We went through a stretch of a lot of in and out shots.' Game 2 will be Monday night in Indianapolis. 'It is huge, to go out there and get Game 1 in their place,' Davis said. 'Now their backs against the wall and theyve got to win Game 2. Were trying to get every game we can. Were not trying to slow down. Were not trying to be complacent.' Indiana doesnt plan to fall behind 2-0. 'We need to be sharper on reads offensively and execute in crunch time,' Vogel said. 'I have every bit of confidence we will bounce back.' Courtesy of http://bostonherald.com

Atlanta H. - Boston C. 83-74
The Boston Celtics lost Game 1 - and they may have lost their floor leader for Game 2. Josh Smith (6'9''-F-85) scored 22 points and grabbed 18 rebounds as the Atlanta Hawks built a big lead early, then held on for an 83-74 victory over the Celtics in their opener of the Eastern Conference playoffs Sunday night. But this one will be remembered for what happened in the final minute, not the Hawks' blistering start. While complaining about a call, Boston star Rajon Rondo (6'1''-PG-86, college: Kentucky) was ejected for bumping an official and faces a possible suspension when the teams meet again Tuesday night in Atlanta. 'I didn't intentionally chest-bump him, but that's what it appears to be,' Rondo said. The Hawks, who led by as many as 19 in the first half, were clinging to a four-point lead when Rondo lost his cool with 41 seconds remaining. Boston's Brandon Bass was called for a foul on Smith tussling for a loose ball, with both players sprawled on the court out beyond the foul line. Rondo screamed at official Marc Davis, who quickly called a technical. Rondo then bumped Davis with his chest and was tossed out. A suspension could be coming, too. Rondo, who scored 20 points and dished out 11 assists, clearly appeared to stick out his chest to strike the official. That's a huge no-no and will almost surely draw the wrath of NBA Commissioner David Stern. 'It's out of my control,' Rondo said. 'Obviously, I want to be there for my teammates but other than that, it's out of my control.' Getting in some immediate lobbying, Celtics coach Doc Rivers saw things a bit differently than the replay showed. Not surprisingly, he doesn't think Rondo deserves a suspension. 'I'm always worried, but I would be surprised if that happens,' Rivers said. 'I thought Rondo was walking toward Marc, and Marc turned back toward him, and that's when Rondo bumped him. ... That's all it was, in my opinion. But we'll see.' Rondo had a similar take. 'Obviously I was upset about the call and I said some words to Marc. I deserved the first tech,' Rondo said. 'As I was walking, I thought he stopped. My momentum carried me into him. I even think I tripped on his foot.' At the beginning, the Hawks looked much quicker and faster than the aging Celtics. With every starter outside of Jason Collins contributing at least four points, Atlanta raced to a 20-6 lead with the game just over 5 minutes old. The Hawks twice pushed the margin as high as 19 points and settled for a 49-35 edge at halftime. Smith totally outplayed Boston's Kevin Garnett over the first two quarters, going into the break with 15 points, 11 rebounds and two assists. Garnett had only two points on 1-of-9 shooting. 'He was an animal,' Atlanta coach Larry Drew said of Smith. 'When he's playing with that energy, he just makes us so much better.' Smith had to carry the load. The Hawks' other big gun, Joe Johnson, had a miserable night with 11 points on 3-of-15 shooting, committing more turnovers (four) than he made field goals. He was 0 of 9 from 3-point range. The Hawks got sloppy with the ball and made only 19-of-54 shots after their blistering performance in opening quarter. That allowed the Celtics to edge back into the game, and it looked as though they might just pull off the comeback until Rondo's big blunder. 'We came out like our jerseys were going to win the game, because we're the Celtics,' Rivers said. 'You've got to play to win the game.' Smith said he was definitely fouled as he scrambled for the loose ball with Bass. 'That was the right call they made,' Smith said of the potentially series-altering play. 'I'm not sure what happened with Rondo. That will be up to the league to see what he did wrong. You never know what's going to happen, but we'll definitely factor him in going to tomorrow.' Garnett bounced back to put up 20 points and 11 rebounds. Paul Pierce had only 12 points, going 5 of 19 from the field and missing all six of his 3-point attempts. 'For us to win, I have to be a better player,' Pierce said. 'I was a really big culprit.' Both teams were short-handed. Celtics guard Ray Allen missed a playoff game for the first time in his career, watching from the bench in a suit and tie because of an ailing right ankle. He would've already had surgery if it was earlier in the year, but the 36-year-old member of Boston's Big Three is hoping to heal in time for possibly his last hurrah in Beantown. The Hawks, meanwhile, started third-stringer Collins at center. Al Horford missed most of the year with a pectoral injury and has been ruled out for the entire series, and the guy who took his place, rugged Zaza Pachulia, went down late in the regular season with a sprained left foot. Pachulia famously went forehead-to-forehead with Garnett during an opening-round series in 2008, and the Hawks wondered how they would fare without the Georgian's toughness. Just fine, it turned out. Of course, the teams were much more closely matched heading into this series than they were in their last playoff meeting. In 2008, the Celtics won 66 games and were the top seed in the East, setting up for a run to their most recent NBA championship. The Hawks were the eighth seed, a team that went 37-45 and made the postseason for the first time in nine years. Still, they managed to push the Celtics to seven games. This time, Boston won the season series 2-1, the three games decided by a total of 10 points, and Atlanta finished one game ahead in the conference standings to earn home-court advantage. Now the big question is: Will Rondo get to play in Game 2? 'I don't think it was on purpose,' Pierce said, 'but it's up to the league.' *Courtesy of http://abcnews.go.com

Chicago B. - Philadelph.76 103-91
Derrick Rose (6'3''-G-88, college: Memphis) scored 23 points before being helped off the court late in the game with an injured left knee, casting a major cloud over the Chicago Bulls 103-91 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers in Saturdays playoff opener. Rose crumbled to the ground after he drove the lane with about 1:20 left and the Bulls leading by 12. He was going for a layup when he came to a jump-stop and seemed to change his mind, passing off to a teammate before an awkward landing. Team medical personnel immediately rushed out and tended to Rose for several minutes as he was writhing in pain near the baseline before helping him to the locker room. TNT reported on air that he was being taken to the hospital. Coach Tom Thibodeau said he wasnt sure of the extent of the injury and was awaiting test results. Asked why he was still in the game, Thibodeau pointed out that the lead had shrunk from 20 midway through the fourth. 'I dont work backward like you guys do,' Thibodeau said. 'The score was going the other way.' Veteran guard Richard Hamilton (6'7''-G-78, college: Connecticut) defended the decision, saying, 'Philly was making a run. In playoff basketball, you never want to give a team confidence. ... When you have a team down, you have to try to keep them down. They made a little run so we needed guys that could put the ball in the basket.' Losing Rose would obviously be a huge blow for a team that made the conference finals last season and captured the top overall seed for the second straight year. He was finally playing more like the reigning MVP after missing 27 games during the regular season with various injuries and struggling down the stretch in the regular season. He found his touch after a slow start in this game and also contributed nine rebounds and nine assists. Hamilton added 19 points, Luol Deng (6'9''-F-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Duke) scored 17 and Joakim Noah (6'11''-F/C-85, college: Florida) (12 points, 13 rebounds) had a double-double for Chicago. Elton Brand (6'8''-F-79, college: Duke) led Philadelphia with 19 points. Jrue Holiday (6'3''-PG-90, college: UCLA) scored 16, and Thaddeus Young (6'8''-F-88, college: Georgia Tech) had 13 points. Chicago product Evan Turner scored 12 and was booed mercilessly after acknowledging he thought the Miami Heat would be a tougher first-round matchup. Well, he might want to reconsider that after this one. The Bulls simply overwhelmed the Sixers and looked like a team gearing up for another big run after losing to Miami in the conference finals last season. They earned home-court advantage throughout the playoffs for the second straight year and sure looked like a championship contender in this one, right until the end. Roses injury sent a major chill through the arena. The Bulls were 18-9 without him this season, but they know they need their star if theyre going to make a run at the title. 'Your heart goes out to him,' Kyle Korver said. 'Its been a hard year. With all the work that he puts in and the kind of person he is, to see this happen stinks. Its a sad win.' Rose hit just 1 of 7 shots in the first quarter but went on a tear late in the second as the Bulls took a 53-42 lead to the locker room. He then scored eight in the third and hit two 3-pointers to help Chicago stay in control, even though things did get a little heated. That happened when Noah got fouled by Turner trying to put back Dengs miss with 4:36 left in the quarter. Hamilton started jawing with Turner. Rose and Brand got involved, too. Fans, meanwhile, started chanting 'MVP! MVP!' in a nod to the rivalry between Rose and Turner that dates to their high school days. When the dust cleared, Hamilton, Brand and Rose all got technicals, and Noah hit 1 of 2 foul shots to make it 69-55. Hamilton added two more free throws on the next possession to boost the lead to 16. After the Sixers pulled within eight, Korver nailed a 3 to start a 12-2 run that stretched into the fourth and made it 84-66. Courtesy of www.sltrib.com

Miami Heat - New York K. 100-67
LeBron James (6'8''-F-84) dropped to the floor holding the back of his head, grimacing and then staggering a bit when he reached his feet. A few moments later, he was fine. And a few moments after that, the Miami Heat had complete control of Game 1 against the New York Knicks. James scored 32 points after shooting 10 for 14 from the field, and the Heat rode the strength of what became a 32-2 run to easily beat the Knicks 100-67 on Saturday, striking first in the series between clubs that waged classic annual battles from 1997 through 2000 and are meeting for the first time since. Dwyane Wade (6'4''-G-82, college: Marquette) added 19 points in his first game back after dislocating his left index finger. 'Our guys had a noticeable look in their eyes the last 24 hours,' Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said. 'We wanted to get back to the basics and play to our identity. For the most part, we were able to do that by being aggressive.' No, this wasn't redemption for falling short in last season's finals. But for James and the Heat, it sure was a fine start. 'I'm a different player this year, a different person this year compared to last year,' James said. 'I've waited to get back to the postseason, prepared myself all season, throughout the offseason to get back to this point.' It was physical, it was heated - and it was one-sided. New York's 67 points matched a franchise playoff low. Mario Chalmers (6'1''-PG-86, college: Kansas) finished with 11 points and nine assists for Miami, which turned 27 New York turnovers into a franchise playoff-record 38 points. The Knicks were called for 21 fouls in the first half, Miami enjoying a 28-5 advantage in free throws attempted in the first 24 minutes alone, and center Tyson Chandler sent James flying with what was called a flagrant foul as the Heat were blowing the game open. J.R. Smith (6'6''-G-85) scored 17 for the Knicks, who lost Iman Shumpert (6'5''-G-90, college: Georgia Tech) to a torn knee ligament and have dropped 11 straight playoff games dating back to 2001. Carmelo Anthony (6'8''-F-84, college: Syracuse) missed 12 of 15 shots and finished with 11 points and 10 rebounds, and Baron Davis added 10 points for New York. It was the worst playoff loss for the Knicks since a 126-85 defeat at Chicago on April 25, 1991. 'This series is not over,' Knicks forward Amare Stoudemire said. 'We've got to learn from our mistakes today and get ready for Monday.' The series isn't, but Shumpert's is. The Knicks said the rookie guard also tore a lateral meniscus and would miss approximately six to eight months. Even before an MRI at a hospital, Anthony said what was obvious to anyone who saw Shumpert take a non-contact tumble in the third quarter. 'We know Shump is not going to be with us,' Anthony said. Maybe it was ironic that this game took a turn when someone who helped doom Miami in last season's finals sent the two-time MVP flying. Chandler - who helped Dallas win the 2011 title over Miami - set a back pick near midcourt with 1:34 left in the half, and James never saw it coming. The original call was a flagrant-2 against Chandler, which would have meant an automatic ejection. After review, it was downgraded to a flagrant-1, so Chandler could stick around for the rest of the debacle. Given that he spent Friday and Saturday fighting the flu, Chandler would have probably rather left anyway. 'They played really well,' Knicks coach Mike Woodson said, 'and we played awful.' An awful 9 minutes for the Knicks decided this one. After all, this is a Heat-Knicks playoff series. It's almost required to have emotions boil over. With Jeff Van Gundy and Alonzo Mourning in the building - remember, the former Knicks coach once tugged on the Heat center's leg during one memorable Miami-New York playoff dustup - along with Knicks assistant general manager Allan Houston, he of the game-winner to eliminate the Heat from the last playoffs following a lockout-shortened season of 1999, things got heated once again. There were early hints that tensions were high, like Stoudemire and Udonis Haslem getting double-technicals after jawing back and forth with 4:10 left in the opening quarter. A few minutes later, after Shane Battier committed a hard foul on Anthony - who missed his first seven shots - Davis ran about 50 feet to give Battier a light shove. That was all little stuff, compared to what was coming. Said Woodson: 'All hell broke loose.' Mike Miller's 3-pointer with 2:22 left in the half capped a run of 13 straight points by the Heat, and they were just getting started. After making both free throws awarded for the Chandler foul, James banked in a 20-footer from the left wing while getting hit by Smith 10 seconds later for what became a five-point possession for Miami. 'I thought it was a legal pick, honestly,' Chandler said. And James still wasn't done, first hitting a fadeaway with 48 seconds left, then a layup while getting hit by Jared Jeffries with 3 seconds left in the half. 'Spectacular,' Spoelstra said of James' flurry. 'His play spoke for itself. It seemed on both ends of the court he had his hands on every single play, in some form or another.' The run then was 24-2. The lead was 54-31. For good measure, the Heat scored the first eight points of the third quarter as well, making it 62-31. 'Very eager to start this series off right,' Heat forward Chris Bosh said. A bad day got even worse for the Knicks midway through the third. Shumpert - who started the final 17 games of the regular season after Jeremy Lin had knee surgery - was carried off the court by teammates after going down in almost the exact spot as where the Chandler-James collision took place. Shumpert was bringing the ball up the right sideline and tried to dribble behind his back when he pulled up and immediately grabbed at his left knee. He was brought into the Knicks' locker room for evaluation, and as he was lifted from the floor Anthony looked at the scoreboard, shaking his head in disbelief. Absolutely everything was going Miami's way. 'We're just trying to play our game,' Wade said, 'trying to come out and take care of business.' James provided the exclamation point with 1.4 seconds left in the third quarter. He made a 3-pointer over Anthony, and then got the fourth quarter off. Through three quarters, the entire Knicks roster had only outscored James by 15, and Miami took an 81-47 lead into the final 12 minutes. 'I think the Miami Heat right now are feeling great about their performance,' Stoudemire said. 'Which they should.' Courtesy of www.ktvn.com

West
Memphis G. - LA Clippers 98-99
Chris Paul (6'0''-PG-85, college: Wake Forest) begged coach Vinny Del Negro to put him back into the game for the fourth quarter and not give up despite being down 21 points. The result was another Clippers comeback - one of the greatest in NBA playoff history. Paul hit a pair of free throws with 23.7 seconds left, and the Clippers rallied from a deficit that had been as much as 27 to stun the Memphis Grizzlies 99-98 Sunday night in the opening game of their Western Conference series. The key, Paul said, is to keep believing. 'Unfortunately, that's how we play,' he said. 'We get killed in the first three quarters and in the fourth quarter we like to try to stand up for ourselves, and we found a way to win tonight.' The Clippers tied the NBA playoff record for largest deficit overcome at the end of three quarters, when they trailed by 21. 'I don't think I've been part of a game like that ever,' Clippers forward Blake Griffin (6'10''-F-89, college: Oklahoma) said. 'It was unbelievable.' Rudy Gay missed a 15-footer with 0.9 seconds left after the Grizzlies squandered a lead they held for the first 47 minutes, with a 24-point cushion disappearing in about nine minutes. 'Obviously, we gave it away, and everybody's kind of down,' Gay said. 'We're still into it. It's a long series, and we're ready to fight. That's all this means. We've got to fight hard.' The Clippers lost Caron Butler to a broken left hand, and he said he thinks he caught his hand in Gay's jersey on a screen. Del Negro said other players will have to step up. Nick Young did just that, scoring 19 points off the bench with three 3-pointers in the midst of the Clippers' 26-1 run. Paul finished with 14 points while playing a team-high 38 minutes despite a groin injury that kept him out of the regular season finale against the Knicks. Griffin had 17 and Butler 12 before leaving the game. Young said he didn't even see the score, being on the court down the stretch for a change. He said he looked up late and saw they had a game when he started hitting his shots. 'It's crazy. It's a blessing,' Young said. 'It shows how hard we fought. How we rallied together as a team, and just made stops down the end.' Gay finished with 19 for Memphis. Mike Conley and O.J. Mayo had 17, and Marc Gasol scored 14. Game 2 is Wednesday night. The Clippers outscored the Grizzlies 35-13 in the fourth quarter, the most points in the final period by a Memphis opponent this season. Los Angeles also hit 13 of 17 from the floor, including 5 of 6 beyond the arc after hitting only one the first three quarters. The Grizzlies looked ready to roll as they ran out to a 20-point lead in the first quarter and were up by 27 twice in the third, the last on a pair of free throws by Mayo with 1:34 left. The Clippers finally got going in the fourth, as the Grizzlies looked like they shut it down way too soon. They had five turnovers in the fourth. Even though the Clippers had seven themselves, the Grizzlies looked lost as they just lost the ball going into the lane or put up shots that had no chance of going in. 'We just got careless,' Memphis coach Lionel Hollins said. 'We just lost a little bit of our discipline from a defensive perspective. But offensively, we just started walking it up and trying to throw it into the post instead of running it in. We ran earlier. We attacked. We were in transition earlier. We just stopped doing that and got conservative and it cost us.' Reggie Evans gave the Clippers their first lead at 97-96 when he scored inside with 58 seconds left. Gay answered with 28 seconds to go with a 10-foot jumper on the right baseline over Paul, ending a drought where the Grizzlies went nearly 9 minutes without a field goal. Tony Allen fouled Paul, sending him to the line for the clinching free throws. Boston came back from 21 down after three quarters against New Jersey on May 25, 2002. The Grizzlies had won six straight overall and the last 11 on their home floor to grab the No. 4 seed and start this series at home. Mayo said there would be no sleep until they fix what went wrong. 'We turned something that we worked so hard for - home-court advantage - to an ugly loss in Game 1,' Mayo said. 'We've got to come back Game 2 with the attitude we can't quit.' The Grizzlies seemed to be clicking all across the board. They even hit 11 of 16 from 3-point range after ranking 25th in the NBA this season beyond the arc at 34.5 percent. Against the Clippers, they opened by hitting their four. So did Conley, and he hit three straight, the last with 7:19 left in the third, putting the Grizzlies up 69-48. Memphis fans couldn't have been more ready for this chance to start the postseason at home with a sellout crowd on hand. With a good luck charm in a St. Jude patient singing the national anthem, fans had their free T-shirts on and waving the free towels before tipoff. The Grizzlies were ready too. They opened the game hitting their first five shots and seven of the first 10 in jumping out 15-6, forcing Del Negro to take a timeout. They quickly led by as much as 20 and had a 34-16 lead by the end of the first quarter, tying the most points scored this season in that period. This is the Clippers' first trip to the postseason since 2006. Paul has plenty of playoff experience with 23 games while in New Orleans, but this was the postseason debut for three starters - Griffin, Randy Foye and DeAndre Jordan - along with four of their teammates. Paul looked a little rusty in the first half with only one point and three assists, all in the first quarter. He sat out the Clippers' final game of the season with a strained groin, and Los Angeles lost that game to the Knicks along with the chance to start this series at home. Paul picked up his third foul with 6.5 seconds left in the first half. The Clippers made a run in the second quarter and got within 50-39. But after Gay missed a pull-up jumper, the Clippers had a shot clock violation. The Grizzlies scored the final eight points, the last on a dunk by Gasol just before the buzzer for a 58-39 halftime lead. *Courtesy of www.foxnews.com

San Antonio S. - Utah Jazz 106-91
Tony Parker (6'0''-PG-82) scored 28 points and added eight assists to lead the Spurs to a 106-91 victory over Utah Sunday afternoon in Game 1 of the NBA playoffs at the AT&T Center. The victory snapped a six-game losing streak of Game 1 losses in the Spurs most recent playoff series. And coming into Sundays game, the Spurs had won only two of their 10 most recent playoff games. But a big effort by the Big Three help lead them to the victory. Tim Duncan (6'11''-F/C-76, college: Wake Forest) added 17 points and 11 rebounds and Manu Ginobili added seven points in the victory. The Spurs are 12-0 this season when Ginobili, Duncan and Parker combine for at least 50 points this season. The Spurs are 27-6 in NBA playoff series where they won the first game. New acquisitions Stephen Jackson accounted for 14 points and Boris Diaw (203-PF-82) scored nine for the Spurs, who claimed their 11th straight victory this season. Paul Millsap (201-F-85, college: Louisiana Tech) led Utah with 20 points and nine rebounds and Al Jefferson added 16 points and nine rebounds. The victory came despite an injury to Tiago Splitter (211-C/F-85, agency: Interperformances), who sustained a sprained left wrist in the second quarter and did not return. Splitter finished with four points and a rebound in seven minutes. Courtesy of The San Antonio Express-News (via www.insidehoops.com)

LA Lakers - Denver N. 103-88
A day before Andrew Bynum (7'0''-C-87, agency: David Lee services) produced one of the most eye-popping defensive performances in NBA playoff history, he spoke up to his Lakers teammates about the importance of getting off to a good start in their championship quest. With an NBA record-tying 10 blocked shots, the 7-foot All-Star center put the Lakers on the good foot - and the Denver Nuggets on their heels. Kobe Bryant (6'6''-G-78) scored 31 points, Bynum posted the Lakers' first playoff triple-double in 21 years, and Los Angeles thoroughly controlled the tempo in a playoff-opening 103-88 victory Sunday. Despite a few well-chronicled fluctuations in his motivation and discipline this year, the seventh-year pro had perfect focus in Game 1, capping his utter dominance in the paint with his record-tying block of Timofey Mozgov with 3:02 to play. Bynum also had 10 points and 13 rebounds before checking out to an ovation. 'It's the only way really possible for me to get a triple-double - through blocked shots,' Bynum said of his first career triple-double. 'If I play good D, we'll win games. I think I'm just going to be as aggressively as I can defensively to contest their shots. ... You've got to win Game 1. Statistics are against the teams that lose Game 1, especially on the home court.' Game 2 is Tuesday night. Just how dominant were Bynum and his tall teammates against the NBA's highest-scoring team? Bynum blocked 11 percent of the Nuggets' 90 shots, and with 15 total blocks, Lakers swatted one of every six Denver shots, separating the Nuggets from any hope of a late rally. 'His timing was impeccable today,' Bryant said of Bynum. 'He really understood the rhythm of their offensive players. He was just there at the exact moment, either to change or block the shot.' While Bynum had the Lakers' first playoff triple-double since Magic Johnson in the 1991 NBA finals, fellow 7-footer Pau Gasol added 13 points, eight rebounds and eight assists for the playoff-tested Lakers, who never trailed while forcing Denver to play Los Angeles' preferred half-court style. Bynum blocked eight shots in the first three quarters before surpassing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's franchise-record nine blocks in the fourth. He eventually equaled the NBA record set by Utah's Mark Eaton on April 26, 1985, and matched by Hall of Famer Hakeem Olajuwon on April 29, 1990. 'We've got to find a way to score before he gets in the paint, because he's impressive,' said Danilo Gallinari, who led Denver with 19 points. For coach Mike Brown, who has mostly enjoyed his first year riding the roller coaster of Bynum's emotions and motivation, the game showed why these Lakers could go deep into June. 'He can control a game without shooting a single shot,' Brown said. 'He has 10 blocks, but I'd be curious to know how many (shots) he changed. He changed a gazillion shots in the paint, and that's what Denver is very good at. He was phenomenal tonight, and if he continues to play like he did, being the type of monster he was tonight patrolling that paint, we'll be playing a long time.' But Denver coach George Karl got a jump start on lobbying the officials for help against Bynum in Game 2. ' (Bynum) was playing a nice illegal defense,' Karl said. 'He was zoned up good. I think we got one illegal defense (call against Los Angeles). I saw about 30 of them. ... The shot-blocker probably beat us.' The sixth-seeded Nuggets won eight of 10 to reach the postseason, but most of their fears about this playoff matchup were realized. Andre Miller had 12 points, eight rebounds and seven assists while helping out Ty Lawson, Denver's leading scorer, who managed just seven points while failing to make a shot in the first three quarters for the NBA's second-youngest playoff roster. Ramon Sessions had 14 points and five assists in his first career playoff game for the third-seeded Lakers, who lost last year's postseason opener to New Orleans. Devin Ebanks even scored 12 points in the first half while starting his first career playoff game in place of suspended Metta World Peace. The Lakers didn't miss their defensive stopper while forcing most of Denver's key contributors into poor games. 'I don't think we were intimidated,' Gallinari said. 'They played their game plan better than we played our game plan. ... This first game, we were overthinking too much. One of the best things we do is just be aggressive and don't think too much.' Bryant scored 23 points in the second half to open the 15th playoff campaign of his 16-year career. The third-leading scorer in NBA playoff history hadn't played in a week, sitting out the Lakers' last game alongside Gasol and Bynum to keep his high-mileage legs fresh. Sessions and Ebanks both made their playoff debuts, while Brown coached the Lakers in their first playoff game at Staples Center, which opened in 1999, without Phil Jackson commanding their bench from his oversized chair. *Courtesy of www.ktvn.com

Oklah.City T. - Dallas M. 99-98
Kevin Durant (6'9''-G/F-88, college: Texas) scored 25 points and hit the game-winning jumper from the foul line with 1.5 seconds left to lift the Oklahoma City Thunder to a 99-98 victory over the Dallas Mavericks on Saturday night in Game 1 of their first-round playoff series. Durant maneuvered to the free throw line and got off a high-arcing shot over Shawn Marion that hit off the front of the rim and then off the backboard before falling through. The defending NBA champion Mavericks, who were out of timeouts, could not get a shot off before the buzzer. Dirk Nowitzki (7'0''-F-78) scored 11 of his 25 points in the final 5 minutes and hit two free throws with 9 seconds left to put Dallas ahead. Jason Terry (6'2''-PG-77, college: Arizona) added 20 points and Marion scored 17. Russell Westbrook (6'3''-PG-88, college: UCLA) led the Thunder with 28 points and Serge Ibaka (6'10''-C/F-89) chipped in 22 points and five blocks. James Harden scored 19 in his first game since suffering a concussion when the Los Angeles Lakers' Metta World Peace hit him with an elbow last Sunday and earned a seven-game suspension. The second-seeded Thunder played catch-up most of the night and had to wipe away a 94-87 deficit in the final 2 minutes to come away with the win. Durant capped a string of seven straight Oklahoma City points on a right-handed slam with 1:27 remaining. Dallas went back ahead with an out-of-control possession, with Harden knocking the ball away from Jason Kidd and then Nowitzki losing it, too, before Vince Carter missed a desperation baseline jumper. Ian Mahinmi rebounded the miss and got fouled, stepping to the line to hit two free throws with 1:03 to play. Durant drove to set up Ibaka's three-point play at the other end, bumping the Thunder ahead 97-96. Nowitzki committed a turnover and Durant missed along the baseline before the two All-Stars came through in the clutch with Durant getting the last chance. Durant, who hit the third and most recent buzzer-beater in his career to beat Dallas in the fourth game of the regular season, had another dramatic shot in store. Considering his dominance in last year's West finals, when he averaged 32.2 points, Nowitzki had been relatively quiet until the final 5 minutes. That's when he put Dallas in control with a personal 7-1 run, finished off by his three-point play that made it 92-85 with 3:23 to go. He then answered Westbrook's layup with a foul line jumper to restore the seven-point advantage, but it didn't prove to be enough. The Mavs had eliminated the Thunder in five games in last year's Western Conference finals, winning both games in Oklahoma City and overcoming fourth-quarter deficits of 15 and eight points in the final two games. This time, the roles were reversed. The Mavericks opened an early eight-point lead as Durant missed his first four shots, only to give it back when Durant hit his next three to fuel a 12-3 comeback. The game continued to swing back and forth, with Terry hitting a 3-pointer and a banked-in jumper during a string of nine straight points to make it 35-27 after a rare Nowitzki basket. Ibaka had a pair of two-handed slams during Oklahoma City's immediate 10-1 response, only for Dallas to recover for a 51-48 halftime lead. Another 9-0 burst, featuring Terry's fourth 3-pointer, gave Dallas a 73-66 edge in the final minute of the third quarter. Nowitzki, like Durant, came out cold and missed his first four shots and seven of his first nine. He even missed a first-quarter free throw, a rare sight in last year's West finals when he went 59 for 61 at the line and made all 24 of his attempts to set an NBA record in Game 1. Courtesy of http://abcnews.go.com


Jeremy Lin eyes Game 4 return - by Eurobasket News

One day after cutting and moving laterally on his surgically repaired left knee, New York Knicks point guard Jeremy Lin (6'3''-PG-88, college: Harvard) says he hopes to return to the court during New York's first-round series with the Miami Heat, possibly as soon as Game 4 on May 6.

'I think I'm gonna evaluate it at the end of the week and see,' Lin said after the Knicks' practice on Sunday. 'Hopefully I'll feel good by then ... the main thing is to be able to play without thinking about (the injury).'

Lin has already ruled himself out for Games 2 and 3.

The Knicks could also be without center Tyson Chandler (flu) in Game 2 on Monday night. Chandler missed practice on Sunday and interim coach Mike Woodson said the 7-foot-1 center is a game-time decision after his flu symptoms didn't improve overnight.

'I don't know what he's going to feel like tomorrow so hopefully a miracle happens overnight and he's ready to play,' the coach said. As for Lin, he played one-on-one with Knicks assistant Kenny Atkinson on Saturday, cutting and moving laterally for the first time since undergoing surgery on April 2 to repair a meniscus tear in his left knee.

On Sunday, Lin noted that he felt 'soreness' in his knee. He planned to stay off of it for the rest of the day and re-evaluate the knee on Monday. Lin seemed discouraged about the discomfort on Sunday, calling it a 'setback.'

'Every day we add something new, so we don't know how it's gonna respond,' Lin said.

The second-year guard said he will take contact for the first time this week and hoped to be healthy May 6 when the Knicks host Game 4 at Madison Square Garden.

'I don't really want to make a promise because I just don't know how I'm gonna feel,' said Lin, who has been out since March 24. 'If I felt good today then that would be more of a possibility, but I didn't feel that great today.'

According to the Knicks, Lin was originally expected to return six weeks after surgery. That would set him on course for a return during the second round, but Lin's timetable changed after he played one-on-one with Atkinson on Saturday. Just three days earlier, he had struggled with low-intensity, side-to-side movement and jogging.

'I could do a lot more than I thought I could (on Saturday),' Lin said. ' ... It kind of happened really fast.'

The Knicks trail the best-of-seven series 1-0 after an embarrassing 33-point loss in Game 1 on Saturday. If the Knicks are down 3-0 going into Game 4, it would make little sense to rush back Lin and risk him re-injuring his knee.

Woodson added that Lin would be playing limited minutes if he returned.

'After going through (surgery), he won't be in basketball shape,' Woodson said. 'My job is to gauge him ... and make sure he's giving us solid minutes within the short minutes that he plays.'

Woodson is dealing with more pressing injuries than Lin's.

Chandler, the Knicks' starting center, has shown little improvement from the flu that limited him to just 21 minutes in Game 1. Chandler was slow to react to rebound opportunities and shots near the rim, finishing with three rebounds, zero points and seven turnovers.

'He's just barely hanging in there,' Woodson said of Chandler's condition on Sunday. 'He gave 21 minutes but it wasn't the Tyson that we're used to having on the floor.'

Woodson also said that Baron Davis (back) may be a game-time decision. The Knicks' starting point guard was limited in practice on Sunday after sitting out most of the second half of Game 1 due to back stiffness.

Davis vowed to suit up Sunday.

'If I wake up in the morning I'm playing,' he said.

Courtesy of ESPN


Knicks rookie guard Iman Shumpert tears ACL, out for the playoffs - by Eurobasket News

The news on Iman Shumpert (6'5''-G-90, college: Georgia Tech) is the Knicks most pressing concern because at least they will have a chance to address their other flaws by Monday's Game 2. In Shumpert the Knicks lost their best perimeter defender. Shumpert tore the ACL in his left knee and had to be carried off the floor by teammates.

'Its tough, man,' Carmelo Anthony said. 'Its an unfortunate situation for us to lose a guy like Shump the way hed been playing and what he brings to our team. Were definitely going to miss that. Most importantly, now guys in place of him have to step up. My prayers go out to him.'

'Its very tough,' J.R. Smith said. 'It kind of hurts your spirit when you see the best defensive player go down like that.'

Courtesy of http://news.bostonherald.com


Tony Parker scores 28, Spurs beat Jazz in Game 1 - by Eurobasket News

Tony Parker (183-PG-82) scored 28 points and added eight assists to lead the Spurs to a 106-91 victory over Utah Sunday afternoon in Game 1 of the NBA playoffs at the AT&T Center.

The victory snapped a six-game losing streak of Game 1 losses in the Spurs most recent playoff series. And coming into Sundays game, the Spurs had won only two of their 10 most recent playoff games.

But a big effort by the Big Three help lead them to the victory. Tim Duncan (211-F/C-76, college: Wake Forest) added 17 points and 11 rebounds and Manu Ginobili added seven points in the victory.

The Spurs are 12-0 this season when Ginobili, Duncan and Parker combine for at least 50 points this season.

The Spurs are 27-6 in NBA playoff series where they won the first game.

New acquisitions Stephen Jackson accounted for 14 points and Boris Diaw (203-PF-82) scored nine for the Spurs, who claimed their 11th straight victory this season.

Paul Millsap (201-F-85, college: Louisiana Tech) led Utah with 20 points and nine rebounds and Al Jefferson added 16 points and nine rebounds.

The victory came despite an injury to Tiago Splitter (211-C/F-85, agency: Interperformances), who sustained a sprained left wrist in the second quarter and did not return. Splitter finished with four points and a rebound in seven minutes.

Courtesy of The San Antonio Express-News (via www.insidehoops.com)


Clippers F Caron Butler fractured left hand during Game 1 vs. Grizzlies - by Eurobasket News

The Los Angeles Clippers announced on Sunday that forward Caron Butler (6'7''-F-80, college: Connecticut) fractured his left hand during Game 1 of a Western Conference first round playoff series against the Memphis Grizzlies.

The injury occurred with a little less than nine minutes remaining in the third quarter and the Grizzlies leading 61-46. Butler was playing defense on Grizzlies forward Rudy Gay on the perimeter and fought through a pick set by Grizzlies guard Mike Conley. He played through the pick as if nothing was wrong, but soon after, as Gay dribbled towards the key, Butler reacted as if his left hand was in severe pain. He played through the injury and scored on the Clippers' ensuing offensive possession but continued to favor and flex his left hand.

'It happened early in the third quarter, my hand got caught in Rudy Gay's jersey coming off a pindown screen,' Butler said during a televised post-game interview. 'I was able to keep playing but once I got subbed out, I felt the throbbing. I went and got the X-ray and noticed I got a fracture.'

He eventually left the game with 2:38 remaining in the third quarter and underwent an X-ray in the arena, which revealed the fracture. He returned to sit on the Clippers bench.

Butler left the game a line of 12 points, 2 rebounds, 1 assist and 1 steal on 5-for-12 shooting in 22 minutes.

Butler, 32, played 63 games for the Clippers this season, all as a starter. He posted season averages of 12.0 points, 3.7 rebounds and 1.2 assists on 40.7 percent shooting in 29.7 minutes per game.

Courtesy of www.cbssports.com


Bynum does it all as Lakers roll over Nuggets - by Eurobasket News

Andrew Bynum (7'0''-C-87, agency: David Lee services) notched a triple double, with an NBA playoff record-tying 10 blocks, 10 points and 13 rebounds as the Los Angeles Lakers overpowered the Denver Nuggets 103-88 to win Game 1 of their first-round playoff series Tuesday.

Bynum's triple-double is the Lakers' first since Magic Johnson in 1991.

Kobe Bryant (6'6''-G-78) led the Lakers with 31 points, while Ramon Sessions (6'3''-PG-86, college: Nevada) added 14.

Game 2 of the series is set for Tuesday.

More details to come from NBCSports.com


Derrick Rose tears ACL, out for the season - by Eurobasket News

Game 1 of the Eastern Conference quarterfinals was proceeding exactly as planned for the Chicago Bulls.

The East's top seed was dominating overmatched Philadelphia but with 70 seconds remaining, the storyline suddenly changed.

Derrick Rose (6'3''-G-88, college: Memphis), who fought through a litany of injuries during the regular season, had to be helped off the court after driving to a jump-stop in the lane and throwing a pass out to the right during the Bulls' 103-91 victory. He crawled slowly to the floor and was lying on his back, grasping at his knee, for several minutes near the baseline before he was removed.

What had been a party atmosphere at the Madhouse on Madison turned into a library. The crowd was stunned and silent, fearing the worst.

In her postgame report, TNT's Cheryl Miller said: 'I've never been in a packed arena where the top player went down, and the arena went silent. It was eerie.'

Those of us who have been around sports have seen far too many of these injuries to not immediately play WebMD and quickly come up with the three letters that send a chill up any athlete's spine -- ACL.

Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau hoped for the best after the game but everyone already knew.

Chicago confirmed the worst fears with a short press release revealing that Rose had indeed torn his anterior cruciate ligament and will miss the remainder of the playoffs. When Bulls public relations maven Matt Yob pressed the send key on that e-mail, he was also signaling the end of Chicago's championship aspirations.

The reigning NBA MVP, who missed 27 games during the regular season with a litany of injuries, had shown signs of regaining his dynamic form against the Sixers, nearly putting up a triple-double with 23 points, nine rebounds and nine assists. Now, the Bulls will have to continue their playoff run without their superstar.

'It's part of the game. There are going to be injuries. A guy could get hurt in practice, a guy could get hurt in the first five minutes of the game, he can get hurt at the end of the game. He can get hurt any time, and you've got to deal with it,' Thibodeau said.

Chicago will deal with it against the offensively-challenged 76ers. C.J. Watson started 25 games in place of Rose during the regular season and has already outplayed Philadelphia's Jrue Holiday on a couple of occasions. Meanwhile, John Lucas and Mike James can certainly provide enough capable minutes in reserve to get Chicago to the second round.

With or without Rose the Bulls will beat the Sixers, and heck, it's conceivable that they could take a East semifinals matchup with either Boston or Atlanta but that's the end of the line.

This Chicago team is built around the talents of Rose, and it's just not capable of making a championship run and dealing with teams like Miami without him.

Carlos Boozer may be able to play with an Elton Brand who has little lift and explosion these days but the lengthy Chris Bosh looms in South Beach. Rip Hamilton can make Jodie Meeks look foolish but Dwyane Wade is warming up. Luol Deng can force Andre Iguodala into a horrible shooting effort but LeBron James is on the horizon.

Thibodeau is probably going to get killed in the Second City for keeping Rose in during the waning moments of a rout but that's specious thinking. The Chicago native actually needed the minutes to shake off the rust and at the end of the day, no Sixer even touched the star-crossed point guard when he went down.

He just collapsed -- just like the Bulls season.

Courtesy of www.torontosun.com


Deron Williams wants new deal before Olympics - by Eurobasket News

All-Star point guard Deron Williams (6'3''-PG-84, college: Illinois) wants to have a new contract before the Olympics start in late July.

Speaking a day after the New Jersey Nets season ended, Williams refused to say whether he will be a Net when the team moves into its new arena in Brooklyn.

The season just ended yesterday, Williams said. We have time, playoffs. A lot of stuff is going to happen. Just take my time. But I dont want to take too much time. I want to try to have something done by the Olympics.

Williams has said all season that he would opt out of his contract and test the free-agent market, and that remains his plan after the Nets (22-44) missed the playoffs for a fifth consecutive season.

Williams, who toured the under-construction Barclays Arena this week, said he can see himself playing in the building, but his desire is to be a member of a championship team.

Courtesy of The Associated Press (via www.insidehoops.com)


Orlando Magic Pull an Upset - by Daniel Gibson

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind.---After Dwight Howard went down with a back injury, all of the 'experts' said they had no chance to win. Even before the injury, Dwight Howard himself didn't sound confident at all in his squads chances of winning.

The rest of the Orlando Magic apparently didn't get the memo.

The Pacers seemed stunned and at times overwhelmed by the fight the Magic put up and in the end lost the game, 81-77. Jason Richardson and Jameer Nelson led the Magic in scoring with 17 points each. Richardson made some huge baskets throughout the game and timely three-pointers down the stretch. He finished shooting 6-of-15 from the field and 5-of-8 from downtown, two of the three-pointers cam e in the last two minutes to secure the win. Nelson shot 7-of-15 from the floor and constantly applied pressure to the defense and ran the team.

Glen 'Big Baby'Davis knew coming in that he would be in for a struggle having to deal with the size and depth of the Pacers big men. Davis had to battle with Roy Hibbert, Tyler Hansbrough, David West and Lou Amundson. Hibbert set a new Pacers playoff record with nine blocks in the game but Davis continued to attack after being turned away at the rim and his passion and tenacity rubbed off on the rest of the team. He finished the game with 16 points on 8-of-20 shooting from the field with 13 big rebounds.

After the game Davis yelled to the crowd, 'ya'll look stunned real stunned.' He was right too.

The Pacers came into the playoffs riding high with all the momentum. They had overachieved during the season and finished with the third seed, up five spots from last season. Over the month of April the team had some signature wins over the Heat, Thunder and Knicks. They also knew that Howard was out and planned to play their 'smash mouth' brand of basketball and wear them down. While the series is no where near done at 1-0, the outlook has definitely changed.

West led Indiana in scoring with 19 points but he was disappointed and frustrated following the loss because the team 'gave away everything they worked all season to get (home court advantage).' Hibbert nearly recorded a triple double with eight points, 13 rebounds and nine blocks but it wasn't enough.

'The Captain,' Danny Granger struggled with his shot all game, finishing 7-of-20 for 17 points. He had a chance to tie the game up in the closing seconds but traveled before taking the three-pointer or passing the ball off.

Orlando's defense was scrambling and contesting shots all night, making it difficult for the Pacers to run their sets and get clean looks at the basket. On the other end of the court the Magic relied on some timely three-point shooting (9-of-34) but they didn't shoot the ball well from the floor and finished at 39 percent.

But it was enough for a win and in the playoffs that's all that matters. The pressure is squarely on the shoulders of the Pacers now because going down 2-0 and heading to Orlando would put them in a difficult situation.

Game two is on Monday night and the team will look to bounce back and reclaim home court. The Magic aren't satisfied with picking up one win though. 'Big Baby' talked about it more after the game.

It is huge, to go out there and get Game 1 in their place,' Davis said. 'Now their back's against the wall and they've got to win Game 2. We're trying to get every game we can. We're not trying to slow down. We're not trying to be complacent.'

It will be interesting to see how Indiana responds after being hit first and also if Orlando can win another game on the road.


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


Larry Brown conducts SMU housecleaning, reportedly dismisses PG Jeremiah Samarrippas, three others - by Eurobasket News

Several SMU players have been informed by new coach Larry Brown that they will not remain on the team.

SMU athletic director Steve Orsini said Friday night that Brown, the Hall of Fame coach hired last week, conducted an evaluation of the roster and held individual meetings with players. While not saying how many or which players wouldn't stay on the team, Orsini referred to 'these young men' in his statement released by the school.

'During each meeting, there was honest, straight-forward discussion about the future of the program,' Orsini said. 'No player was told his scholarship would not be renewed.'

Brown later Friday announced the hiring of assistant coach Jerrance Howard, who spent the past five seasons as an assistant at Illinois.

Howard was a point guard for four seasons at Illinois (2000-04). Before returning to the Illini as an assistant coach, he worked for more than three years under Billy Gillispie at Texas A&M (administrative assistant) and Kentucky (basketball operations).

Orsini said each of the former players could remain at SMU as a student on scholarship.

If they decide to transfer to play somewhere else, Orsini said Brown and his staff would help them find another school.

'These are decisions that will be made by the individual student-athletes, though, and not the athletic department,' the AD said.

Starting point guard Jeremiah Samarrippas (5'10''-G-92) told the school's student newspaper that Brown basically told him that he 'wasn't good enough to play for him.''

Samarrippas, a 5-foot-10 guard who would have been a junior next season, averaged 6.9 points and 4.2 assists a game last season. He started all 31 games last season, and was a starter most of his freshman season.

The Dallas Morning News, citing a source, reported that three non-starting forwards were also being removed from the team. Leslee Smith (6'7''-F), Ricmonds Vilde (6'9''-F-90) and Eric Norman (6'6''-F) all would have been sophomores next season.

The roster on the school's website was unchanged Friday night. Samarrippas and the trio of forwards were still listed.

Courtesy of http://aol.sportingnews.com


Southern Miss tabs Morehead's Donnie Tyndall as coach - by Eurobasket News

The Southern Miss men's basketball program has its man.

Morehead State's Donnie Tyndall accepted the head coaching position at USM Saturday morning and will be introduced at 5 p.m. ET Monday during a news conference in Hattiesburg, according to a person with knowledge of the situation who requested anonymity because neither school had made an announcement.

Tyndall's hiring wraps up a two-week process that started after Larry Eustachy stepped down April 12 after eight seasons at Southern Miss to take the head coaching job at Colorado State.

Tyndall has been a hot name in coaching circles in recent seasons after leading Morehead State, his alma mater, to the NCAA tournament in two of the last four seasons.

His biggest moment at the Kentucky school came in 2011 when Tyndall's No. 13 seed Eagles knocked off No. 4 Louisville 62-61 in the second round of the NCAA tournament.

Morehead State was 114-84 during Tyndall's six seasons, including an 18-14 record this past season. He became head coach at the school in 2006 and was named Ohio Valley Conference coach of the year in 2007-08 after a 20-16 record and the program's first NCAA tournament berth since 1984.

After starting his Division I career as an assistant from 1997-2001 at LSU, Tyndall served as an associate head coach at Idaho from 2001-02 and Middle Tennessee State from 2002-06.

Tyndall worked alongside current MTSU head coach Kermit Davis at the Murfreesboro, Tenn., school and both served on the same staff at LSU.

Davis saw USM's hiring of Tyndall as a good move.

'The thing about Donnie is he's as tireless a worker as there is in the business,' Davis said Saturday. 'He's a really good recruiter. He's shown he can coach at a very high level based on what he's done at Morehead State. What he'll do is he'll put his family in the middle of the Hattiesburg community and rally that fan base.'

Davis also interviewed for the USM job last week in New Orleans before withdrawing his name from consideration.

Tyndall was chosen over a field of candidates that included Mississippi Valley State head coach Sean Woods, USM associate head coach Steve Barnes, former Nebraska coach Doc Sadler and Wichita State assistant Greg Heiar.

Tyndall, 41, takes over a program that is coming off a 25-9 season and its first NCAA tournament bid in 21 years.

Three starters forward Jonathan Mills, guard LaShay Page and guard Rashard McGill are due back from that team.

Also back in the fold will be the Conference USA sixth man of the year and newcomer of the year, point guard Neil Watson.

Davis sees Tyndall building on the three consecutive campaigns of 20 or more victories that Eustachy had during the final three seasons of his eight-year tenure at Southern Miss.

'The two things I've always seen in Donnie's teams is how hard they play and how unselfish they are,' Davis said. 'His team will share the ball. When you look at all his teams, whether it's at St. Catharine College or at Morehead State, they play with a passion and they play unselfish.'

Eustachy made about $385,000 a year at USM while Tyndall had an annual salary of $230,000 at Morehead State.

Courtesy of www.usatoday.com


Wisconsin gives Bo Ryan five-year deal through 2017 - by Eurobasket News

Wisconsin has approved a five-year contract extension for Bo Ryan , who has taken the Badgers to the round of 16 the past two seasons.

The University of Wisconsin Athletic Board approved the deal Friday. Ryan's contract will now run through 2017. Terms were not disclosed.

Wisconsin went 26-10 last season and was the nation's best defensive team, allowing 53.2 points per game. The Badgers lost to Syracuse in the NCAA tournament.

Ryan will be entering his 12th season at Wisconsin this fall.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com


Auburn's Barbee dismisses two, suspends third - by Eurobasket News

Auburn has dismissed two basketball players and suspended a third indefinitely.

Coach Tony Barbee said Friday that Cedrick McAfee (6'3''-G) and Josh Langford (6'7''-G) were kicked off the team for violating team rules and Noel Johnson (6'6''-G) is suspended.

Barbee says Auburn has no further comment.

Langford averaged 5.2 points and 2.1 rebounds as a sophomore. McAfee was redshirted last season.

Johnson is a Clemson transfer who played in 19 games and started three last season after becoming eligible following the fall semester. He averaged 2.1 points and 1.5 rebounds.

Center Willy Kouassi and forward Bernard Morena have left the program after one season. That leaves the Tigers with five returning scholarship players, counting Johnson, and five signees. Guard Varez Ward is being investigated for alleged point shaving and is not expected back.

Courtesy of http://sports.yahoo.com


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

Standings Men

NBL Standings
 1. Bay Hawks 10-1 
 2. Auckland P. 9-2 
 3. Taranaki MA 7-7 
 4. Hub Jets 5-4 
 5. Wellington S. 5-6 
 6. Nelson G. 5-7 
 7. OceanaGold N. 4-8 
 8. Southland S. 4-8 
 9. Harbour H. 2-8 

Regular Season: Round 9

Apr. 29: OceanaGold N. - Nelson G. 97-93 OT
Apr. 25: Bay Hawks - Wellington S. 97-80
Apr. 28: Bay Hawks - Hub Jets 95-79
Apr. 27: Wellington S. - Hub Jets 93-98
Apr. 25: Auckland P. - Harbour H. 91-75
Apr. 28: OceanaGold N. - Taranaki MA 81-90
Apr. 28: Southland S. - Nelson G. 79-90 OT
Apr. 27: Southland S. - Taranaki MA 77-91
Apr. 25: Nelson G. - Taranaki MA 72-75

Regular Season: Round 10

May. 2: Harbour H. - Hub Jets
May. 4: Nelson G. - Bay Hawks
May. 4: Southland S. - Auckland P.
May. 4: Taranaki MA - Hub Jets
May. 5: Wellington S. - Bay Hawks
May. 5: OceanaGold N. - Auckland P.
May. 5: Hub Jets - Harbour H.


Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Akeem WRIGHT
  OceanaGo.
  (200-F/G-84)
  Avg: 23
 1. Wright, OceanaGo.23.0 
 2. Tisby, OceanaGo.22.8 
 3. Braswell, Southlan.22.5 
 4. Jones, Nelson G.22.3 
 5. Horvath, Hub Jets22.0 
 6. Hudson, Taranaki.21.9 
 7. Leasure, Taranaki.21.8 
 8. Pace, Hub Jets21.0 
 9. Bartlett, Bay H.20.7 
 10. Tait, Auckland P.20.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Nick HORVATH
  Hub Jets
  (208-F/C-81)
  Avg: 15.2
 1. Horvath, Hub Jets15.2 
 2. Tisby, OceanaGo.12.2 
 3. Abney, Southland10.6 
 4. Atkinson, Harbo.9.8 
 5. Johnson, Bay Hawks9.0 
 6. Harrison, Nelson G.8.8 
 7. Wright, OceanaGo.8.8 
 8. Muhammad, Aucklan.8.8 
 9. Frank, Wellington8.5 
 10. Pace, Hub Jets7.9 
Assists Per Game
 Jason CROWE
  Wellington S.
  (193-G-76)
  Avg: 9.5
 1. Crowe, Wellington9.5 
 2. Tait, Auckland P.7.8 
 3. Dickel, OceanaGo.6.4 
 4. Jones, Nelson G.5.3 
 5. Pace, Hub Jets4.7 
 6. Kenny, Bay Hawks4.3 
 7. Wright, OceanaGo.4.3 
 8. Braswell, Southlan.4.2 
 9. Bailey, Harbour H.4.0 
 10. Hudson, Taranaki.3.8 
Steals Per Game
 Kevin BRASWELL
  Southlan.
  (188-G-79)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Braswell, Southlan.2.8 
 2. Crowe, Wellington2.4 
 3. Wright, OceanaGo.2.2 
 4. Leasure, Taranaki.2.2 
 5. Dickel, OceanaGo.1.9 
 6. Muhammad, Aucklan.1.9 
 7. Bailey, Harbour H.1.8 
 8. Pace, Hub Jets1.7 
 9. Ross, OceanaGold1.6 
 10. Tait, Auckland P.1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Michael HARRISON
  Nelson G.
  (206-F/C-84)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Harrison, Nelson G.2.2 
 2. Tisby, OceanaGo.1.5 
 3. Atkinson, Harbo.1.1 
 4. Wright, OceanaGo.1.1 
 5. Trousdell, Wellin.1.0 
 6. Abney, Southland1.0 
 7. Muhammad, Aucklan.0.9 
 8. Frank, Wellington0.8 
 9. Cartwright, Auckla.0.7 
 10. Prewster, Southla.0.7 


NBL Round 9 of Regular Season - by Eurobasket News

OceanaGold N. (4-8) survived in overtime against Nelson G. (5-7) by four points 97-93. Antoine Tisby nailed a double-double by scoring 30 points and 12 rebounds for the winning side. OceanaGold N. moved-up to seventh place, which they share with Southland S. Nelson G. at the other side keeps the sixth position with seven games lost. OceanaGold N.'s next round opponent will be league's second-placed Auckland P. at home and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
Southland S. (#7) forced the game against Nelson G. (#6) into an overtime, but lost by eleven points 79-90 on Saturday night. The game took place in Southland. But the guests from Stoke were better at the end. The best player for the winners was Phill Jones who scored 16 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists. Nelson G.'s coach used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. Nelson G. maintains sixth place with 5-7 record. Loser Southland S. keeps the seventh position with eight games lost. Nelson G. will face league's leader Bay Hawks in Tamatea in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Southland S. will play at home against the league's second-placed Auckland P. (#2).

Other games of round 9 were very predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are:
Hub Jets was defeated by Bay Hawks in Tamatea 95-79. Wellington S. were beaten by Hub Jets at home 93-98. Taranaki MA won against OceanaGold N. on the opponent's court 90-81. Auckland P. managed to outperform Harbour H. in a home game 91-75. Taranaki MA managed to beat Southland S. on the road 91-77. Bay Hawks defeated Wellington S. on its own court 97-80. Taranaki MA beat Nelson G. in New Plymouth 75-72.
The best stats of 9th round was 24 points, 14 rebounds and 6 assists by Akeem Wright of OceanaGold N..

Bay Hawks - Hub Jets 95-79

There was no surprise in Tamatea where 4th placed Hub Jets (5-4) were defeated by first ranked Bay Hawks (10-1) 95-79 on Saturday. The game was mostly controlled by Bay Hawks. Hub Jets was better in third quarter 22-20. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Bay Hawks looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. The best player for the winners was American center Kareem Johnson (205-80, college: Cincinnati) who had a double-double by scoring 18 points and 10 rebounds. International guard Jarrod Kenny (188-85) chipped in 10 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists. At the other side the best for losing team was the former international power forward Nick Horvath (208-81, college: Duke) who recorded 16 points and 7 rebounds and American swingman Josh Pace (198-83, college: Syracuse) added 17 points and 6 rebounds respectively. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Hub Jets' coach rotated ten players seeing no chance for a win. Bay Hawks have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain first place with 10-1 record. Loser Hub Jets keep the fourth position with four games lost. Bay Hawks will face Wellington S. (#5) on the road in the next round. Hub Jets will play against Harbour H. in Auckland.
Top scorers:
Hub Jets: J.Pace 17+6reb+3ast, N.Horvath 16+7reb+3ast, J.Trueman 15+6reb, M.Jones 11+6reb+2ast, K.Hokianga 8, Z.Meehl 7+2reb+1ast
Bay Hawks: E.Bartlett 19+1reb+1ast, K.Johnson 18+10reb+1ast, G.Young 16+1reb+2ast, J.Kenny 10+7reb+6ast, B.Hill 9+2reb+1ast, M.Natanahira 9+1reb+2ast
gschID: 168128


OceanaGold N. - Nelson G. 97-93 OT

OceanaGold N. (4-8) survived in overtime against Nelson G. (5-7) by four points 97-93. It looked good early as Nelson G. took an 7-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then OceanaGold N. had a 26-15 second period charge getting the lead. Then Nelson G. managed to tie the game at the end of regular time, but lost overtime period 8-12. American power forward Antoine Tisby (203-83, college: S.Carolina) nailed a double-double by scoring 30 points and 12 rebounds for the winning side and his fellow American import swingman Akeem Wright (200-84, college: Kansas St.) accounted for 24 points, 14 rebounds and 6 assists. Wright is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. American power forward Michael Harrison (206-84, agency: Interperformances) came up with a double-double by scoring 21 points and 13 rebounds and the former international guard Phill Jones (196-74) added 17 points and 6 assists respectively for Nelson G. in the defeat. Five Nelson G. players scored in double figures. OceanaGold N. moved-up to seventh place, which they share with Southland S. Nelson G. at the other side keeps the sixth position with seven games lost. OceanaGold N.'s next round opponent will be league's second-placed Auckland P. at home and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
Top scorers:
Nelson G.: M.Harrison 21+13reb+2ast, J.Bloxham 19+1reb+1ast, P.Jones 17+2reb+6ast, M.Vukona 13+6reb+1ast, P.Campbell 12+7reb+1ast, D.Jones 9+6reb+1ast
OceanaGold N.: A.Tisby 30+12reb+2ast, A.Wright 24+14reb+6ast, M.Fitchett 13+3reb+4ast, L.Henry 9+9reb+3ast, J.Ross 9+2reb+2ast, S.King 6+1reb
gschID: 168129


Wellington S. - Hub Jets 93-98

We could consider it a predictable result in the game between close teams when fourth ranked Hub Jets (5-4) defeated on the road 3rd placed Wellington S. (5-6) 98-93 on Friday. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Wellington S. won third quarter 27-21. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The game was decided in the last minutes when Hub Jets won last quarter 23-20. Hub Jets outrebounded Wellington S. 44-25 including a 18-7 advantage in offensive rebounds. The best player for the winners was American swingman Josh Pace (198-83, college: Syracuse) who had a triple-double by scoring 21 points, 12 rebounds and 10 assists. His fellow American import forward Marcel Jones (203-85, college: Oregon St., agency: David Lee services) chipped in 23 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. At the other side the best for losing team was American guard Jason Crowe (193-76, college: CS Northridge) who recorded a double-double by scoring 15 points, 7 rebounds and 10 assists and the former international forward Casey Frank (203-77, college: N.Arizona) added 21 points and 7 rebounds respectively. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Hub Jets maintains fourth place with 5-4 record. Wellington S. lost third consecutive game. Defending champion dropped to the fifth position with six games lost. Hub Jets will face bottom-ranked Harbour H. (#9) in Auckland in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Wellington S. will play at home against the league's leader Bay Hawks (#1) in Tamatea.
Top scorers:
Wellington S.: C.Frank 21+7reb+2ast, T.McLean 17+1reb+1ast, J.Crowe 15+7reb+10ast, A.Trousdell 12+3reb, E.Scott 11+2reb+1ast, J.Kench 10+3reb+1ast
Hub Jets: M.Jones 23+6reb+4ast, J.Trueman 21+7reb, J.Pace 21+12reb+10ast, N.Horvath 13+15reb+3ast, M.Te Huna 12+2reb+1ast, Z.Meehl 8+1reb+1ast
gschID: 168125


OceanaGold N. - Taranaki MA 81-90

Very expected game in Dunedin where 8th ranked OceanaGold N. (4-8) was defeated by third ranked Taranaki MA (7-7) 90-81 on Saturday. The game without a history. Taranaki MA led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They made 23-of-26 free shots (88.5 percent) during the game. The game was dominated by American players. The best player for the winners was guard Jack Leasure (191-86, college: Co.Carolina) who had a double-double by scoring 27 points and 11 rebounds. Guard Darryl Hudson (196-85, college: Howard, agency: Strategic Sports) chipped in a double-double by scoring 22 points and 10 rebounds (went 8 for 8 at the free throw line). Four Taranaki MA players scored in double figures. Taranaki MA's coach Dave Bublitz used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. At the other side the best for losing team was power forward Antoine Tisby (203-83, college: S.Carolina) who recorded a double-double by scoring 27 points and 17 rebounds and swingman Akeem Wright (200-84, college: Kansas St.) added 21 points and 5 rebounds respectively. Taranaki MA have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain third place with 7-7 record having just 0 points less than leader Bay Hawks. OceanaGold N. lost fifth consecutive game. They dropped to the seventh position with eight games lost. Taranaki MA will face Hub Jets (#4) in Palmerston North in the next round. OceanaGold N. will play at home against the league's second-placed Auckland P..
Top scorers:
OceanaGold N.: A.Tisby 27+17reb+2ast, A.Wright 21+5reb+3ast, L.Henry 14+6reb+3ast, J.Ross 9+3reb+4ast, M.Trueman 4+2reb+1ast, S.King 4+6reb
Taranaki MA: J.Leasure 27+11reb+1ast, D.Hudson 22+10reb+3ast, A.Bailey-Nowell 16+5reb+1ast, L.Abrams 12+6reb+2ast, S.Adams 5, M.Abdelhamid 4+5reb
gschID: 168126


Southland S. - Nelson G. 79-90 OT

Southland S. (#7) forced the game against Nelson G. (#6) into an overtime, but lost by eleven points 79-90 on Saturday night. The game took place in Southland. But the guests from Stoke were better at the end. The guests trailed by 3 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 8-point lead at the halftime then Southland S. managed to tie the game at the end of regular time. However that was Nelson G. who were better in overtime eventually winning that period 16-5. Nelson G. outrebounded Southland S. 53-42 including 16 on the offensive glass. The best player for the winners was the former international guard Phill Jones (196-74) who scored 16 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists. American forward Pete Campbell (201-84, college: Butler) chipped in 21 points. Nelson G.'s coach used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. At the other side the best for losing team was American forward Lawrence Abney (203-77, college: Fresno St., agency: Dream Team Management) who recorded a double-double by scoring 20 points and 17 rebounds and the other American import guard Kevin Braswell (188-79, college: Georgetown, agency: Priority Sports) added 24 points, 7 assists and 4 steals respectively. Four Nelson G. and five Southland S. players scored in double figures. Nelson G. maintains sixth place with 5-7 record. Loser Southland S. keeps the seventh position with eight games lost. Nelson G. will face league's leader Bay Hawks in Tamatea in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Southland S. will play at home against the league's second-placed Auckland P. (#2).
Top scorers:
Southland S.: K.Braswell 24+4reb+7ast, L.Abney 20+17reb, C.Bradshaw 14+6reb, J.Paringatai 11+3reb, D.Prewster 10+8reb+3ast, P.McLeod 0+1reb
Nelson G.: P.Campbell 21+4reb+1ast, M.Harrison 16+7reb+1ast, P.Jones 16+8reb+6ast, J.Bloxham 15+6reb+3ast, D.Jones 7+4reb+2ast, G.Dawson 6+8reb+1ast
gschID: 168127


Auckland P. - Harbour H. 91-75

Very predictable result when second ranked Auckland P. (9-2) beat at home bottom-ranked Harbour H. (2-8) 91-75 on Wednesday. The game was mostly controlled by Auckland P.. Harbour H. was better in second period 26-25. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The best player for the winners was international guard Lindsay Tait (192-82) who scored 21 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists. American forward Ismail Muhammad (198-83, college: Georgia Tech) chipped in 18 points and 8 rebounds. Auckland P.'s coach Judd Flavell used entire bench which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. At the other side the best for losing team was American power forward Zack Atkinson (206-86, college: Cal-Irvine, agency: Top Notch Sports) who recorded a double-double by scoring 15 points and 12 rebounds and the other American import guard Justin Bailey (188-77, college: Hartford) added 16 points and 7 rebounds respectively. Four Auckland P. and five Harbour H. players scored in double figures. Auckland P. have an impressive series of five victories in a row. They maintain second place with 9-2 record behind leader Bay Hawks. Harbour H. lost third consecutive game. They stay at the bottom position with eight games lost. Auckland P. will face OceanaGold N. (#7) in Dunedin in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Harbour H. will play on the road against Hub Jets in Palmerston North.
Top scorers:
Harbour H.: J.Bailey 16+7reb+1ast, Z.Atkinson 15+12reb+1ast, M.Alexander 12+2reb, K.Smith 12+5reb+4ast, R.Te Rangi 10+5reb+1ast, C.Piho 5+5reb
Auckland P.: L.Tait 21+8reb+6ast, R.Dorsey 19+3reb, I.Muhammad 18+8reb, H.Allen 11+8reb+6ast, D.Bailey 8+2reb+2ast, N.Barrow 6+5reb
gschID: 168123


Southland S. - Taranaki MA 77-91

Not a big story in a game when 7th ranked Southland S. (4-8) was defeated at home by third ranked Taranaki MA (7-7) 91-77 on Friday. The guests trailed by 6 points after three quarters before their 31-11 charge, which allowed them to win the game. The game was dominated by American players. The best player for the winners was guard Darryl Hudson (196-85, college: Howard, agency: Strategic Sports) who scored 29 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists. Guard Jack Leasure (191-86, college: Co.Carolina) chipped in 25 points. At the other side the best for losing team was forward Lawrence Abney (203-77, college: Fresno St., agency: Dream Team Management) who recorded a double-double by scoring 18 points and 14 rebounds and guard Kevin Braswell (188-79, college: Georgetown, agency: Priority Sports) added 24 points and 4 assists respectively. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Taranaki MA have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain third place with 7-7 record having just 0 points less than leader Bay Hawks. Loser Southland S. keeps the seventh position with eight games lost. Taranaki MA will face Hub Jets (#4) in Palmerston North in the next round. Southland S. will play at home against the league's second-placed Auckland P..
Top scorers:
Southland S.: K.Braswell 24+2reb+4ast, L.Abney 18+14reb+1ast, C.Bradshaw 12+6reb, D.Prewster 8+7reb, J.Paringatai 5+3reb, D.Peck 5+2reb
Taranaki MA: D.Hudson 29+8reb+5ast, J.Leasure 25+4reb+3ast, B.Anderson 12+1reb+2ast, M.Abdelhamid 6+7reb+2ast, L.Abrams 6+2reb, C.Daniel 5+4reb+5ast
gschID: 168124


Bay Hawks - Wellington S. 97-80

Everything went according to plan in Tamatea where first ranked Bay Hawks (10-1) won against 3rd placed Wellington S. (5-6) 97-80 on Wednesday. The game was mostly controlled by Bay Hawks. Wellington S. was better in third quarter 22-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The best player for the winners was international guard Everard Bartlett (198-86) who scored 24 points and 4 assists. The former international guard Paora Winitana (196-76) chipped in a double-double by scoring 14 points and 12 rebounds. Four Bay Hawks players scored in double figures. Bay Hawks' coach Paul Henare allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. At the other side the best for losing team was American guard Jason Crowe (193-76, college: CS Northridge) who recorded 22 points, 9 rebounds and 7 assists and the former international forward Casey Frank (203-77, college: N.Arizona) added 27 points and 8 rebounds respectively. Bay Hawks have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain first place with 10-1 record. Wellington S. lost third consecutive game. Defending champion dropped to the fifth position with six games lost. Bay Hawks will face again Wellington S. (#5) on the road in the next round.
Top scorers:
Wellington S.: C.Frank 27+8reb, J.Crowe 22+9reb+7ast, A.Trousdell 8+3reb+1ast, T.McLean 8+4reb, J.Mills 6+5reb, E.Scott 4+3reb
Bay Hawks: E.Bartlett 24+2reb+4ast, G.Young 21+4reb+2ast, P.Winitana 14+12reb+2ast, M.Natanahira 10+4reb, J.Kenny 8+4reb+5ast, K.Johnson 6+4reb
gschID: 168121


Nelson G. - Taranaki MA 72-75

There was no surprise in Stoke where 6th ranked Nelson G. (5-7) was edged by third ranked Taranaki MA (7-7) 75-72 on Wednesday. The guests trailed by 3 points at the halftime before their 42-36 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. The best player for the winners was American guard Darryl Hudson (196-85, college: Howard, agency: Strategic Sports) who scored 25 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists. Swingman Christopher Daniel (197-85) chipped in 16 points and 6 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was American forward Pete Campbell (201-84, college: Butler) who recorded a double-double by scoring 19 points and 10 rebounds and the other American import power forward Michael Harrison (206-84, agency: Interperformances) added 11 points, 13 rebounds and 4 assists respectively. Four Taranaki MA and five Nelson G. players scored in double figures. Taranaki MA have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain third place with 7-7 record having just 0 points less than leader Bay Hawks. Loser Nelson G. keeps the sixth position with seven games lost. Taranaki MA will face Hub Jets (#4) in Palmerston North in the next round. Nelson G. will play at home against the league's leader Bay Hawks in Tamatea.
Top scorers:
Nelson G.: P.Campbell 19+10reb+2ast, M.Harrison 11+13reb+4ast, P.Jones 11+5reb+4ast, S.Dempster 10+5reb+1ast, J.Bloxham 10+3reb+2ast, G.Dawson 8+2reb
Taranaki MA: D.Hudson 25+9reb+4ast, C.Daniel 16+6reb+2ast, L.Abrams 11+6reb+1ast, J.Leasure 11+3reb+1ast, A.Bailey-Nowell 7+7reb+1ast, M.Wallace 3
gschID: 168122



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  PHILIPPINES   


ASEAN League: Dragons nip Patriots away from home - by Eurobasket News

Philippine Patriots - Westports Dragons 93:97 (OT)

Westports Dragons surprised one of the league leaders Philippine Patriots on the road tonight. Tiras Wade (200-F-81, agency: Interperformances, college: La-Lafayette) scored 34 points to lead the visitors to an overtime victory. The win propelled the Dragons at 10-9 record and they share the third position with the Warriors. The Patriots slipped at 14-5 record in the second position.
The visitors stunned the Patriots in the opening frame. The Dragons went on a 26:16 run to gain a comfortable lead. The Malaysian team maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. They arrived at halftime up by 11 points 50:39. The Patriots showed signs of recovery in the third term. The home team cut the deficit to 6 points before the fourth quarter. The Patriots narrowed the deficit and finally Al Vergara (173-G-79) sent the game into overtime hitting a free throw late in regulation. Tiras Wade knocked down 8 points in the extra frame bringing victory for the visitors. Brian Williams (208-C-87, agency: VVG Sports, college: Tennessee) accounted for 30 points and 18 rebounds, while Patrick Cabahug (186-G) added 17 points in the win. Anthony Johnson (197-G/F-79, agency: Interperformances, college: La-Lafayette) replied with 26 points and 12 rebounds for the Patriots. Al Vergara produced 19 points in the loss.

Philippine Patriots: Anthony Johnson 26+12 boards, Al Vergara 19
Westports Dragons: Tiras Wade 34, Brian Williams 30+18 boards, Patrick Cabahug 17


2012 PBA Commissioners Cup Finals: April 27, 2012 - by Enzo Flojo

B-MEG LLAMADOS over TALK N TEXT TROPANG TEXTERS, 91-87

B-Meg hardly showed discouragement from its sorry Game Two defeat, coming out Friday night with renewed energy and outlasting Talk n Text in a nip-and-tuck battle for the 2-1 advantage in the PBA Commissioners Cup Finals.

Denzel Bowles best typified the character displayed by the Llamados, bucking early foul trouble situation to put B-Meg back in the lead in the series. Bowles, a cinch to win the Best Import award Sunday, powered his way to 28 points, including 10 he made after having picked a fifth foul with 5:58 left to play.

He personally kept the Tropang Texters at bay with four important foul shots at the finish.

James Yap, Josh Urbiztondo and PJ Simon were also right there in the battle for B-Meg, combining for an impressive 10-of-18 three-point shooting.

Talk n Text coach Chot Reyes, meanwhile, took Jimmy Alapag and Ranidel de Ocampo to task for their Game Three loss.

Were not gonna beat B-Meg unless Ranidel and Jimmy come back from their early vacation, said Reyes.

Donnell Harvey, Reyes, Castro and Ali Peek carried the cudgels for the Texters as they fought the Llamados through 10 deadlocks and 17 lead changes before losing it in the end.

The Texters were fighting to salvage the game when Bowles canned in four important charities in the last 23 seconds. He had given B-Meg a four-point lead at 90-86 when he eventually fouled out, baited by Alapag while taking a three-point attempt with 4.9 ticks left.

Talk n Texts chances didnt improve as Alapag muffed his first charity.

He knocked in the second one and deliberately missed the third, hoping Talk n Text would get the offensive rebound for a chance to tie from beyond the arc.

Rafi Reavies, however, cleared the board to settle the outcome.

De Ocampo took only two field goal attempts both from beyond the arc -- in 23 minutes of action while Alapag bled for his points on 2-of-13 shooting.

BML 91- Bowles 28, Yap J. 21, Urbiztondo 12, Simon 12, Intal 5, Barroca 4, Reavis 4, Pingris 2, De Ocampo Y. 2, Devance 1.
TNT 87- Harvey 21, Reyes 21, Peek 15, Castro 11, Fonacier 7, Alapag 6, Williams 5, De Ocampo R. 1, Gamalinda 0, Dillinger 0.
QS: 19-21, 37-36, 62-64, 91-87.

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


2012 PBA Commissioners Cup Finals: April 29, 2012 - by Enzo Flojo

Amid the din of the NBA Playoffs, lets not forget that a rock em sock em showdown for the Commissioners Cup is happening right in our backyard! Nearly 19,000 fans trooped to the SMART Araneta Coliseum to witness Game 4 between TNT and B-Meg. 19,000!!!

Wow.

And the best part?

They all got to see TNTs Pamboy Raymundo plant not one, but TWO cheap shots one each for Josh Urbiztondo and Joe Devance! And with the Texters already up big with less than two minutes to go!!!

Some people in the B-Meg camp believe Raymundo wouldnt have done it unless he was instructed to do so.

Wow.

You want drama, kids? Game 5 is on Wednesday. Lock your TV sets to AKTV and hide the remote. This is where real drama happens.

TALK N TEXT TROPANG TEXTERS over B-MEG LLAMADOS, 100-85

The Talk N Text Tropang Texters served notice that theyre not giving up their Commissioners Cup crown easily, fashioning a 100-85 rout the B-MEG Llamados in Game Four of the finals Sunday at the SMART Araneta Coliseum before a crowd of 18,696 fans, the biggest this season for the PBA.

After being burned by Llamados wingmen James Yap and Peter June Simon earlier in the best-of-seven series, their Tropang Texters counterparts, Jared Dillinger, Ryan Reyes, and Larry Fonacier, keyed the most lopsided result of the finals yet.

Dillinger and Reyes combined for 23 points in the first half to a 47-35 lead. Talk N Text pushed the lead to as much as 19 points in the third quarter, quelling repeated rallies by B-MEG.

Dillinger and Fonacier led four other players in double-figures for Talk N Text with 18 points apiece, while Reyes scored all nine of his points in the first half. Dillinger added five rebounds and four assists.

Yap scored for 14 points, but shot just 1-of-9 from the three-point line. Simon had an even more miserable outing, getting off just 5 shots from the field. His first field goal came with just 4:03 left in the game.

Things. However, took a strange turn late in the game, with 1:47 left and Talk N Text leading, 96-81. Pamboy Raymundo elbowed Josh Urbiztondo on a pick, causing the B-MEG guard to react.

In the scrum, Joe Devance threw the ball at Raymundo, who responded by hitting the Llamados forward on the back of his head.

The officials took a few minutes to sort out the situation, calling two penalty one flagrant fouls on Raymundo, leading to his ejection. Devance was also called for a flagrant foul penalty two and was also sent off, while Urbiztondo was called for a technical foul.

The scuffle led to B-MEG coach Tim Cone exchanging words with members of the Talk N Text coaching staff. A couple of plays later, Cone fell to the floor after getting hit inadvertently by referee Art Herrera. Cone stormed off the court with still a little over a minute left.

After a monster performance in Game Three, Denzel Bowles also had a quiet outing with just 17 points for B-MEG.

TNT 100- Dillinger 18, Fonacier 18, Castro 15, Harvey 14, Alapag 12, De Ocampo 10, Reyes 9, Carey 4, Raymundo 0, Gamalinda 0, Williams 0, Alvarez 0, Lao 0, Peek 0.
BML 85- Bowles 17, Devance 17, Urbiztondo 15, Yap 14, Intal 8, Simon 5, Pingris 4, Reavis 4, Barroca 1, Acuna 0, Gaco 0, Burtscher 0, Villanueva 0, De Ocampo 0.
QS: 25-24, 47-35, 73-60, 100-85

On a separate note, congratulations are in order.

Ginebras Mark Caguioa was named the Best Player of the Conference, while B-Megs Denzel Bowles was adjudged Best Import.

Mark Caguioa normed 16.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 1 steal per game for the Gin Kings. He led them to the tournament semifinals before getting hit in the eye and, consequently, being unable to play the rest of the way. Had he been healthy, the Kings wouldve probably made the Finals in lieu of the Llamados.

For his part, Bowles has averaged 25.2 points, 11.8 rebounds, 3.2 assists, and 1.7 blocks in 21 games so far. He has been the rock that the Llamados sorely need down low, and he has been mighty consistent. He now has a chance to give coach Tim Cone his first title with a team other than the Alaska Aces.

I, for one, think Bowles also merits consideration as our naturalized import for Smart-Gilas 2.0. That doesnt mean Marcus Douthit is no longer needed (hes still plenty good, mind you), but Bowles brings a lot of what Marcus does, AND hes just 22 years old. Or, of course, we could still go the Javale McGee route.

Source: Game recap was compressed and compiled from InterAKTV.com


Asean Basketball League Roundup: April 25-29, 2012 - by Enzo Flojo

AIRASIA PHILIPPINE PATRIOTS over SAIGON HEAT, 76-70
Anthony Johnson scored 19 points, including a dunk in the final minute, as the AirAsia Philippine Patriots held on for a 76-70 win over the Saigon Heat tonight at the Ynares Sports Arena. Nakiea Miller added 17 points and 9 rebounds in his first game back with the Patriots.
On the other end of the court, the Heat were having trouble with their turnovers all game long. The Heat recorded 20 turnovers in this game, 16 of which came from their trio of Jahmar Thorpe, Jonathan Jones and John Smith.

It looked like it might go down to the wire when Thorpe closed the third quarter with a basket which trimmed the Patriots lead to 59-56. Unfortunately the Heat, who are still fighting for a playoffs spot, picked the wrong time to go cold from the field and struggled with their shots in the final quarter, missing 13 out of their 18 attempts.

Jonathan Jones, who had 21 points throughout the first three quarters, was held scoreless in the final 10 minutes. Their second leading scorer, Jahmar Thorpe, was also held scoreless in the first seven minutes of the final quarter although Thorpe finished the game with 16 points and 10 rebounds.

APP 76- Johnson 19, Miller 17, Vergara 11, Adriano 7, Ramos 6, Fernandez 5, Raymundo 4, Rodriguez 3, Arellano 2, Larong 2
SGH 70- Jones 21, Thorpe 16, Sanz 11, Smith 8, Trieu 8, Javier 6
QS: 25-19, 41-35, 57-56, 76-70

WESPORTS MALAYSIA DRAGONS over BANGKOK COBRAS, 107-84
The Westports Malaysia Dragons are regaining the impressive form they displayed at the start of the season as they dominated the Bangkok Cobras.

Tiras Wade finished the game with 27 points, 13 rebounds and 8 assists for the Dragons tonight, followed closely by teammate Brian Williams who recorded 20 points, 14 rebounds and 8 assists. Patrick Cabahug contributed a further 17 points and Shee Fai Loh rounded up the Dragons top four scorers with 12 points that included an 80% completion rate from the field and 100% from the three point line. The Dragons also finished the game with a total of 31 assists.

The Cobras had a slow start to the game; none of their players were able to break into the double digits until the final period. Gentry Lewis finished the game with 21 points, however, followed by Travis George who recorded 18. Marvin Cruz was the only other Cobras player that scored in the double digits with 15 points.

WMD 107- Wade 27, Williams 20, Cabahug 17, Loh 12, Batumalai 9, Belasco 6, Kuppusamy 6, Kwaan 4, Kuek 3, Lau 2, Pacana 1
BKC 84- Lewis 21, George 18, Cruz 15, Reyes 9, Kruatiwa 8, Wanna 6, Limsuwan 3, Apiromvilaichai 2, Kongkum 2
QS: 26-13, 49-33, 73-50, 107-84

SAN MIGUEL BEERMEN over JOBSTREET.COM SINGAPORE SLINGERS, 68-64
San Miguel Beermens center Nick Fazekas did everything from scoring, rebounding and blocking shots to help the Beermen beat the JobStreet.com Singapore Slingers at Ynares Sports Arena.

Down 44-54 going into the final quarter, Fazekas stepped up by scoring 12 points, grabbing 8 rebounds and blocking 3 shots in the final 10 minutes of the game. He finished with 23 points and 19 rebounds.

Chris Banchero finished with 13 points and Duke Crews added 11 points in Beermens 15th win of the season. With this win, the Beermen are now on a six-game winning streak and still on top of the standings table with 15 wins and 4 losses. Beermens coach Bobby Parks hopes his team will play better in their next game which will be against the Bangkok Cobras.

The Slingers had to play without their best perimeter defender, Vaughn Canta, for most of the third quarter after he collided with Roger Yap that resulted in a cut on Cantas lips. Canta was bleeding and had to be subbed out with 7:51 left in the third quarter. After Canta went to the bench, Kyle Jeffers also had to subbed out after receiving his fourth foul with 6:06 left in the third quarter. Even though the Slingers had to continue without their two starters, they still managed to close the third quarter with a 54-44 lead after Louis Graham hit a difficult fade away shot to close the quarter.

Graham led the Slingers with 19 points and 12 rebounds. Dulay added 17 points and 7 assists while Jeffers finished with 14 points for the Slingers who are on fifth position with 7 wins and 9 losses.

SMB 68- Fazekas 23, Banchero 13, Crews 11, Fajardo 9, Avenido 8, Baguion 2, Yap 2
SGS 64- Graham 19, Dulay 17, Jeffers 14, Matialakan 4, Canta 4, Oh 3, Wong 3
QS: 18-21, 34-40, 44-54, 68-64

INDONESIA WARRIORS over CHANG THAILAND SLAMMERS, 73-63
The Chang Thailand Slammers, although already out of the playoffs race, proved this afternoon that they would not go out without a fight. Playing on the road against the hot-streaking Indonesia Warriors, Slammers coach Felton Sealey was still very passionate in keeping his players motivated. As a result, the Warriors had to put in extra efforts on defense to get their win over the Slammers in their last home game today.

It was an ugly win but well take it. said Warriors guard Mario Wuysang who finished the game with 11 points.

Evan Brock led the Warriors with 24 points, including a couple of dunks that got the Warriors fans excited. Brock had the whole gym on their feet when he tried to dunk on Calvin Williams in the fourth quarter, but, unfortunately, the ball went in and out. Stanley Pringle added 12 points for the Warriors who are improved to 10 wins and 9 losses.

There was a scary scene for the Warriors late in the third quarter when their big man, Steven Thomas, got elbowed on the head by Darongpan Apiromvilaichai, which resulted in a big cut. Thomas had to be subbed out, but he did manage to return to the game. Thomas, however, did have to leave the arena immediately after the game to the hospital for some stitches. Thomas finished with a season-low 3 points.

Christoper Garnett led the Slammers with 23 points and Calvin Williams added 16 points. They will face the Westports Malaysia Dragons on May 5th at MABA Stadium.

The Warriors will try to maintain their undefeated record since adding Evan Brock and Stanley Pringle to their line-up when they travel to Bangkok to face Marvin Cruz and the rest of the Bangkok Cobras on May 6th.

BKW 73- Brock 24, Pringle 12, Wuysang 11, Canada 10, Prihantono 9, Thomas 3, Gunawan 2, Salangsang 2
CTS 63- Garnett 23, Williams 16, Apiromvilaichai 10, Lertmalaiporn 5, Leynes 5, Supachai 3
QS: 20-13, 41-33, 57-49, 73-63

SAN MIGUEL BEERMEN over BANGKOK COBRAS, 91-77
The Bangkok Cobras fought hard against the San Miguel Beermen, knowing that a win here would be essential to keep their playoff hopes alive. The Beermen, however, were even more determined to defend their position at the top of the standings and got their 16th win of the season over the Cobras today.

Nick Fazekas was the games top scorer with 25 points, followed by teammate Chris Banchero, who put in 22. Leo Avenido rounded off the Beermens top 3 scorers with his contribution of 13 points.

Gentry Lewis topped the Cobras scorers with 20 points followed by Marvin Cruzs 16 and Jai Reyess 14. Travis George did not have a good game as he finished with just 8.

The Beermen dominated in the paint, managing 42 points compared to the Cobras 22. In the end, the Beermen maintained their record at the top of the standings.

The Cobras will continue the regular season with a trip to Tan Binh Stadium in Ho Chi Minh City to face Saigon heat on May 2. The Beermen will next play in the final week of the regular season when they also travel to Tan Binh Stadium on May 9.

SMB 91- Fazekas 25, Banchero 22, Avenido 13, Crews 12, Yap 8, Baguion 5, Fajardo 3, Gonzales 3
BKC 77- Lewis 20, Cruz 16, Reyes 14, Kruatiwa 11, George 8, Apiromvilaichai 4, Chaiwat 2, Limsuwan 2
QS: 18-22, 44-38, 65-60, 91-77

WESTPORTS MALAYSIA DRAGONS over AIRASIA PHILIPPINE PATRIOTS, 97-93
The Westports Malaysia Dragons snatched the last game in the season series between these two teams in a big way after their overtime win at the Ynares Sports Arena tonight over the AirAsia Philippine Patriots.

The Dragons big men put in huge points as Tiras Wade finished with 34 points and Brian Williams grabbed a 30 points and 18 rebounds double-double. Patrick Cabahug rounded up the Dragons top three with 17 points.

Anthony Johnson led the Patriots and finished with a double-double of 26 points and 12 rebounds. Al Vergara also had a good game and contributed 19 points.

The Patriots fell behind early and staged their comeback in the second half to go into the final quarter 66-60, paving the way for an intense final ten minutes of regular time. In the crucial final seconds of the fourth, Cabahug had a chance to give the Dragons the win, but missed a three point shot with 23 seconds left on the clock. Kiko Adriano then missed a game winning shot in the final seconds, throwing the game into overtime at 83-all at the end of regular time.

Both teams put aside fatigue and continued to fight in overtime, Wade calmly completing a three point play to put the Dragons up 91 to 88 with 2:15 to go. Aldrech Ramos answered for the Patriots with a three-pointer that drew the game at 91-all. The Dragons kept their cool, however, and Wade immediately answered with his own three to put them back on top, 94-91.

Unfortunately Adriano, Johnson and Vergara missed attempts in the final minute and the Dragons ultimately earned themselves a hard fought win.

WMD 97- Wade 34, Williams 30, Cabahug 17, Ng 7, Belasco 5, Batumalai 3, Kuppusamy 1
APP 93- Johnson 26, Vergara 19, Miller 15, Wainwright 11, Ramos 6, Fernandez 4, Adriano 4, Ybanez 2, Laure 2, Raymundo 2, Larong 2
QS: 20-16, 44-39, 60-60, 83-83, 97-93

JOBSTREET.COM SINGAPORE SLINGERS over SAIGON HEAT, 73-67
JobStreet.com Singapore Slingers ended the Saigon Heats playoffs dream after beating them at the Singapore Indoor Stadium this afternoon.

Louis Graham led the Slingers with 29 points and 15 rebounds. Kyle Jeffers also recorded a double-double with 20 points and 14 rebounds for the Slingers. who are still chasing the Dragons for the fourth spot on the standings table.

The Heats defense held the Slingers shooting percentage at 34% in the first half as they led 34-31 at halftime.
The Slingers ended the Heats hope of getting another win at Singapore Indoor Stadium after a basket from Don Dulay gave the Slingers a 69-58 lead with 1:20 left. Dulay finished with 9 points. The Slingers are now still at fifth on the standings with 8 wins and 10 losses. They will travel to Manila on May 5 to play against the AirAsia Philippine Patriots.

Thorpe had 16 points for the Heat, who are now at seventh position with a record of 6 wins and 12 losses. With this loss, the Heat's Cinderella story comes to an end. After a great story coming back from a 0-7 start, the Heat are officially eliminated from the playoffs race.

SGS 73- Graham 29, Jeffers 20, Dulay 9, Wong 8, Oh 4, Canta 2, Lim 1
SGH 67- Jones 31, Thorpe 16, Smith 9, Javier 7, Sanz 4
QS: 10-10, 31-34, 49-46, 73-67

*Game Recaps compiled and compressed from AseanBasketballLeague.com



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

DBE Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Walter HODGE
  Zastal ZG
  (183-PG-86)
  Avg: 18.9
 1. Hodge, Zastal ZG18.9 
 2. Motiejunas, Asseco16.4 
 3. Corbett, Siarka J.16.1 
 4. Miller, Siarka J.15.9 
 5. Koszarek, Trefl S.15.8 
 6. Kulig, PBG Basket15.7 
 7. Micic, PBG Basket15.7 
 8. Dylewicz, Trefl So.15.6 
 9. Weeden, Polpharma15.4 
 10. Burrell, Energa C.15.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Darrell HARRIS
  Kotwica
  (208-F/C-84)
  Avg: 11.6
 1. Harris, Kotwica11.6 
 2. Lawal, Zastal ZG10.2 
 3. Hrycaniuk, Asseco8.6 
 4. Dluski, LKS Lodz8.1 
 5. Burgess, Trefl S.8.0 
 6. Archibeque, Zastal7.8 
 7. Doaks, Siarka J.7.3 
 8. Simmons, Polpharma7.2 
 9. Bartosz, PBG Bask.7.1 
 10. Turek, Trefl Sopot7.1 
Assists Per Game
 Robert SKIBNIEWSKI
  Slask W.
  (182-G-83)
  Avg: 7.4
 1. Skibniewski, Slask7.4 
 2. Blassingame, Assec.6.0 
 3. Hodge, Zastal ZG5.9 
 4. Koszarek, Trefl S.5.3 
 5. Wilczek, AZS P.5.2 
 6. Milicic, AZS K.5.0 
 7. Burrell, Energa C.4.8 
 8. Miller, Siarka J.4.7 
 9. Moore, PGE Turow4.6 
 10. Micic, PBG Basket4.5 
Steals Per Game
 Krzysztof SZUBARGA
  Anwil
  (182-G-84)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Szubarga, Anwil1.8 
 2. Skibniewski, Slask1.6 
 3. Sapp, Kotwica1.5 
 4. Tiller, Siarka J.1.5 
 5. Miller, Siarka J.1.4 
 6. Ponitka, AZS P.1.4 
 7. Hodge, Zastal ZG1.4 
 8. Dabrowski, Polph.1.4 
 9. Koszarek, Trefl S.1.4 
 10. Nikolic, PBG Bask.1.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Callistus EZIUKWU
  AZS K.
  (208-F/C-85)
  Avg: 1.7
 1. Eziukwu, AZS K.1.7 
 2. Harris, Kotwica1.6 
 3. Burgess, Trefl S.1.6 
 4. Kesicki, Kotwica1.4 
 5. Karnowski, Siarka1.2 
 6. Morrison, Energa C.1.2 
 7. Lauderdale, PGE T.1.1 
 8. Lawal, Zastal ZG1.1 
 9. Mladenovic, Slask1.1 
 10. Doaks, Siarka J.1.0 


Stats Leaders - 1Liga

Points Per Game
 Lukasz PACOCHA
  AZS S.
  (182-G-82)
  Avg: 18.5
 1. Pacocha, AZS S.18.5 
 2. Woloszyn, MKS D.17.9 
 3. Niesobski, Sudety16.7 
 4. Kostrzewski, Start16.3 
 5. Jarecki, P.Cuk.15.3 
 6. Mazur, Polonia14.8 
 7. Donigiewicz, Rosa14.3 
 8. Lewandowski, P.Cuk.14.0 
 9. Wilczek, Sokol Lan.13.6 
 10. Pluta, MOSiR K.13.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Krzysztof MIELCZAREK
  AZS S.
  (198-G/F-81)
  Avg: 11.8
 1. Mielczarek, AZS S.11.8 
 2. Luszczewski, Start9.8 
 3. Wilczek, Sokol Lan.9.4 
 4. Mikolajko, Polonia7.9 
 5. Wilusz, Sudety7.1 
 6. Grudzinski, Spojnia7.0 
 7. Malewski, Znicz B.7.0 
 8. Misiewicz, Znicz B.6.9 
 9. Perka, AZS Kutno6.8 
 10. Radke, Rosa Radom6.8 
Assists Per Game
 Grzegorz GROCHOWSKI
  MKS D.
  (178-PG-93)
  Avg: 5.6
 1. Grochowski, MKS D.5.6 
 2. Musijowski, Polonia5.5 
 3. Basinski, SKK S.4.9 
 4. Zytko, P..4.6 
 5. Ochonko, Spojnia4.1 
 6. Michalski, Start L.4.1 
 7. Kardas, Rosa Radom4.0 
 8. Brek, AZS Kutno3.9 
 9. Wojcicki, SKK S.3.6 
 10. Szumelda-K., Znic.3.4 
Steals Per Game
 Lukasz ZYTKO
  P..
  (181-G-81)
  Avg: 3.5
 1. Zytko, P..3.5 
 2. Mielczarek, AZS S.3.1 
 3. Niesobski, Sudety2.9 
 4. Szumelda-K., Znicz2.9 
 5. Lewandowski, P.Cuk.2.8 
 6. Sulinski, Znicz B.2.7 
 7. Pisarczyk, Sokol L.2.5 
 8. Czubek, Znicz B.2.5 
 9. Basinski, SKK S.2.5 
 10. Szpyrka, Start G.2.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Artur DONIGIEWICZ
  Rosa R.
  (185-G-84)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Donigiewicz, Rosa2.1 
 2. Zytko, P..1.8 
 3. Niesobski, Sudety1.8 
 4. Klima, Sokol Lancut1.8 
 5. Oczkowicz, MOSiR K.1.7 
 6. Aleksandrowi., Sta.1.6 
 7. Grochowski, MKS D.1.6 
 8. Wojdyla, Start G.1.6 
 9. Malecki, AZS Kutno1.6 
 10. Wojcicki, SKK S.1.6 


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

Rosa Radom - MKS DG 85-91

MKS Dabrowa gornicza overcame Rosa Radom to tie the series. The guests were already 12 points ahead after 3 quarters before a 33-27 Rosa Radom's run in the last quarter cut the lead to 91-85 at the end of the game. MMKS Dabrowa Gornicza forced 24 Rosa Radom turnovers. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 26 assists comparing to just 13 passes made by Rosa Radom's players. MMKS Dabrowa Gornicza brought some defensive toughness making 10 blocks. Point guard Grzegorz Grochowski (178-PG-93) notched a double-double by scoring 15 points and 13 assists to lead the effort and forward Pawel Zmarlak (195-82) supported him with 18 points and 4 assists. Four MMKS Dabrowa Gornicza players scored in double figures. Even 19 points and 6 rebounds by guard Jakub Zalewski (183-86) did not help to save the game for Rosa Radom. Guard Artur Donigiewicz (185-84) added 22 points and 5 rebounds for the hosts. Rosa Radom's coach Piotr Ignatowicz rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
Rosa Radom: A.Donigiewicz 22+5reb, J.Zalewski 19+6reb+2ast, P.Kardas 16+5ast, E.Podkowinski 10+1reb, M.Kosinski 9+5reb+3ast, H.Radke 8+9reb+1ast
MKS DG: M.Woloszyn 21+3reb+1ast, P.Zmarlak 18+4reb+4ast, G.Grochowski 15+3reb+13ast, L.Szczypka 13+5reb+4ast, L.Grzegorzewski 8+6reb+2ast, R.Kulikowski 7+4reb+1ast
gschID: 175607


Start Gdynia - Znicz Basket 78-75

Start Gdynia claimed the second straight win in the semifinal series. The hosts were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. Start Gdynia forced 22 MKS Znicz Basket turnovers and outrebounded them 35-19 including 24 on the defensive glass. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Start Gdynia made 8 blocks. The former international swingman Mateusz Kostrzewski (201-89) had a double-double by scoring 24 points and 11 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and forward Tomasz Wojdyla (201-77) chipped in 12 points and 7 rebounds during the contest. Start Gdynia's coach Pawel Turkiewicz used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. Forward Andrzej Misiewicz (201-84, college: Daytona Beach CC) responded with 18 points and 6 rebounds (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field) and forward Przemyslaw Szymanski (198-84) scored 15 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists and 5 steals.
Top scorers:
Znicz Basket: A.Misiewicz 18+6reb+1ast, P.Szymanski 15+5reb+4ast, M.Szumelda-Krzycki 13+1reb+4ast, A.Czujkowski 9+2reb+1ast, D.Czubek 9+2ast, M.Matuszewski 7+3reb+1ast
Start Gdynia: M.Kostrzewski 24+11reb+2ast, G.Mordzak 14+2reb, T.Wojdyla 12+7reb+3ast, P.Smigielski 8+4reb+4ast, A.Lisewski 7+6reb, T.Andrzejewski 6+1reb
gschID: 175606



*****************************************************
  PORTUGAL   

Stats Leaders - UZO Liga

Points Per Game
 Nate BOWIE
  Terceira.
  (183-G-86)
  Avg: 19.1
 1. Bowie, Terceira.19.1 
 2. Murphy, Terceira.18.6 
 3. Addison, Sampaense18.2 
 4. Stempin, Porto F.17.6 
 5. Scott, Benfica17.5 
 6. Franklin, Lusitania17.0 
 7. Nevels, Terceira.16.9 
 8. Morris, Vitoria SC16.5 
 9. Balseiro, Sampa.15.5 
 10. Oruche, Academica15.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Brian MORRIS
  Vitoria SC
  (205-F-87)
  Avg: 11
 1. Morris, Vitoria SC11.0 
 2. Lee, Ovarense9.9 
 3. Nevels, Terceira.9.6 
 4. Fonseca, Vitoria SC9.2 
 5. Addison, Sampaense8.3 
 6. Djukic, Ginasio8.2 
 7. Cunha, Vitoria SC7.9 
 8. Gunter, CAB M.7.9 
 9. Momplasir, Lusitan.7.8 
 10. Stempin, Porto F.7.6 
Assists Per Game
 Mario FERNANDES
  CAB M.
  (176-PG-82)
  Avg: 6.5
 1. Fernandes, CAB M.6.5 
 2. Sing, Sampaense5.9 
 3. Blanks, Vitoria SC5.4 
 4. Reveles, Sampaense5.3 
 5. Barbosa, Ovarense4.5 
 6. Ferreira, Ginasio4.4 
 7. Manarte, Ovarense4.1 
 8. Fechas, Barcelos4.1 
 9. Bowie, Terceira.4.1 
 10. Minhava, Benfica3.9 
Steals Per Game
 Jaime SILVA
  CAB Madeira
  (187-PG-80)
  Avg: 3.2
 1. Silva, CAB Madeira3.2 
 2. Fernandes, CAB M.2.3 
 3. Balseiro, Sampa.2.3 
 4. Cunha, Vitoria SC2.0 
 5. Kenon, CAB Madeira1.9 
 6. Andrade, Porto F.1.9 
 7. Silva, Barcelos1.8 
 8. Jackson, CAB M.1.8 
 9. Bessa, Vitoria SC1.8 
 10. Bowie, Terceira.1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Durrell NEVELS
  Terceira.
  (198-F-86)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Nevels, Terceira.2.8 
 2. Momplasir, Lusitan.1.9 
 3. Johnson, Porto F.1.2 
 4. Silva, Barcelos1.0 
 5. Gunter, CAB M.1.0 
 6. Doliboa, Benfica0.8 
 7. Ehiagwina, Ginasio0.8 
 8. Addison, Sampaense0.8 
 9. Coelho, CAB M.0.8 
 10. Fonseca, Vitoria0.7 


LPB Round 2 of Semi-Finals. Benfica level the series - by Eurobasket News

Benfica - Lusitania 98-70

Benfica pulled together to bounce back from the starting loss and thrashed Lusitania for the opening win in the series. The game without a history. Benfica led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They made 22-of-24 free shots (91.7 percent) during the game. Benfica outrebounded Lusitania 43-22 including a 33-17 advantage in defensive rebounds. American forward Seth Doliboa (203-80, college: Wright St., agency: Hart Sports Mngm) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 13 rebounds. The other American import guard Ted Scott (188-85, college: W.Virginia St., agency: Hart Sports Mngm) contributed with 23 points for the winners. Benfica's coach Carlos Lisboa felt very confident that he used entire bench which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American point guard Ricky Franklin (185-87, college: Wisc.-Milwaukee) replied with 13 points and 7 assists and forward Mohamed Camara (196-83) added 13 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Lusitania. Four Benfica and five Lusitania players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Benfica: T.Scott 23+1reb+2ast, E.Evora 18+6reb, S.Doliboa 17+13reb+2ast, J.Gomes 10+7reb, A.Monteiro 10+1reb, M.Minhava 6+3reb+3ast
Lusitania: M.Momplasir 14+5reb+1ast, A.Sobrinho 13+3reb+3ast, M.Camara 13+6reb+2ast, R.Franklin 13+2reb+7ast, B.Mills 12+3reb+2ast, D.Monteiro 3+1reb+4ast
gschID: 175559



Proliga Round 4 of Quarter-Finals. Fisica and Galitos make it through - by Eurobasket News

Electrico FC - Oliveirense 94-89 OT

Electrico needed overtime to gain the second win over Olivairense drawing things level at 2-2 in the series. Oliveirense was trailing by 12 points at halftime but managed to get 2-point lead after three quarters before a 11-9 charge of Electrico FC, which allowed them to tie the game at the end of regular time. They were better in overtime eventually winning that period 27-22. Electrico FC made 25-of-30 free shots (83.3 percent) during the game. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. Oliveirense was plagued by 31 personal fouls down the stretch. Guard Tiago Pinto (183-88) fired 22 points and 5 assists for the winners. Guard Tiago Brito (180-85) chipped in 21 points. American forward Deantre Jefferson (203-88, college: Chattanooga) produced a double-double by scoring 16 points and 16 rebounds and guard Nuno Freitas (180-81) added 18 points and 6 rebounds respectively for lost side. Five Electrico FC and four Oliveirense players scored in double figures. Oliveirense's coach Sergio Salvador rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
Electrico FC: T.Pinto 22+4reb+5ast, T.Brito 21+3reb+2ast, A.Medeiros 15+8reb+1ast, M.Neves 12+7reb+4ast, J.Lanzinha 10+7reb+5ast, J.Andre 6+3reb+2ast
Oliveirense: N.Freitas 18+6reb+2ast, D.Jefferson 16+16reb+2ast, J.Abreu 14+3reb+7ast, R.Azevedo 11+1reb, S.Johnson 10+8reb+1ast, M.Pinto 8+3ast
gschID: 175768


Fisica - Angra 101-65

Fisica cruised past Angra to advance into semifinals. The game without a history. Fisica led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They also forced 23 Angrabasket turnovers. Fisica shot the lights out from three sinking 14 long-distance shots on high 58.3 percentage. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 27 assists comparing to just 12 passes made by Angrabasket's players. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Fisica made 8 blocks. Cape Verdean guard Braima Freire (188-82) fired 19 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists for the winners. Naturalized Guinea-Bissau forward Josimar Cardoso (201-87) chipped in 17 points and 7 rebounds. Fisica's coach Ivan Kostourkov felt very confident that he used 11 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American power forward Terrence Mack (198-84, college: Rhode Island) produced 21 points and forward Joao Paulo Avila (190-76) added 14 points and 6 assists respectively for lost side. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Fisica: B.Freire 19+5reb+5ast, J.Cardoso 17+7reb+3ast, M.Salvador 15+2reb+3ast, C.Dias 14+4reb+2ast, E.Rosario 8+5reb+2ast, R.Rodrigues 8+1reb+6ast
Angra: T.Mack 21+2reb+2ast, J.Paulo Avila 14+4reb+6ast, P.Loth 12+7reb+2ast, J.Pereira 10+10reb+1ast, F.Gomes 8+6reb+1ast, D.Gibson 0
gschID: 175766


Galitos-Tley - Illiabum 79-75 OT

Galitos-Tley held off Illibaum in overtime to win the series. The hosts were tied after three quarters and then recorded another tie at the end of regular time. They eventually won an overtime period 14-10. Galitos-Tley forced 20 Illiabum turnovers and outrebounded them 39-27 including 18 on the offensive glass. The winners were led by forward Rui Quintino (196-83) who had that evening a double-double by scoring 16 points and 11 rebounds and guard Alexandre Coelho (178-90) supported him with 13 points and 11 assists. Even 25 points and 7 rebounds by naturalized American power forward Calvin Clemmons (203-81, college: Charlotte) did not help to save the game for Illiabum. American-Liberian forward Kadiri Richard (203-80, college: Virginia Union) added 10 points, 10 rebounds and 4 blocks for lost side. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Galitos-Tley: R.Quintino 16+11reb+1ast, F.Pinheiro 15+5reb+1ast, A.Coelho 13+3reb+11ast, T.Magalhaes 11+4reb+2ast, D.Neves 10+10reb, J.Ferreira 10+5reb+3ast
Illiabum: C.Clemmons 25+7reb+1ast, J.Figueiredo 12+1reb+5ast, D.Swetalla 11+7reb+3ast, P.Azevedo 11, K.Richard 10+10reb+2ast, P.Morgado 5
gschID: 175767



WINNERS OF MONTE BASKET AWARD 2011, GO TO SERBIA - by Hugo Carvalho

This summer, the two athletes, winners of 2011 Monte Basket Academy Award, Joaquim Soras from Ovarense and Diogo Andrade from SC Vasco da Gama, will have the opportunity to participate in the Serbian Basketball Summer Camp 'Professor AKK. Aleksandar Nikolic '. They will travel together with the coaches of SL Benfica Gonalo Ferreira and Joao Tavares, who will make professional development in the same period in this prestigious camp.

During 10 days, young athletes will participate in the 37th edition of the camp, known throughout Europe. Camp is famous for developing players like Aleksandar Djordjevic, Predrag Danilovic, Dejan Bodiroga, Igor Rakocevic, Zeljko Rebraca, and others. Last year, seven athletes and two coaches from Portugal (2 awarded of Monte Basket and five athletes and two coaches from SL Benfica), also participated in this camp.

The International Basketball Camp 'AKK. Prof. Aleksandar Nikolic ' has been working according to the programs outlined by the oldest and best known Serbian coach, member of the Basketball Hall of Fame, in Springfield, Mass, who made his mark mainly on their students, and today some of the best coaches of Europe, Zeljko Obradovic and Bozidar Maljkovic, among others.


More detailed information about the Monte Basket Academy and camp 'Prof. AKK. Aleksandar Nikolic' you can find, apart from Facebook, on:
www.montebasket.com www.youtube.com/MonteBasket and www.zlatiborbasket.rs/en


WINNERS OF MONTE BASKET AWARD 2011, GO TO SERBIA - by Hugo Carvalho

This summer, the two athletes, winners of 2011 Monte Basket Academy Award, Joaquim Soras from Ovarense and Diogo Andrade from SC Vasco da Gama, will have the opportunity to participate in the Serbian Basketball Summer Camp 'Professor AKK. Aleksandar Nikolic'. They will travel together with the coaches of SL Benfica Gonalo Ferreira and Joao Tavares, who will make professional development in the same period in this prestigious camp.

During 10 days, young athletes will participate in the 37th edition of the camp, known throughout Europe. Camp is famous for developing players like Aleksandar Djordjevic, Predrag Danilovic, Dejan Bodiroga, Igor Rakocevic, Zeljko Rebraca, and others. Last year, seven athletes and two coaches from Portugal (2 awarded of Monte Basket and five athletes and two coaches from SL Benfica), also participated in this camp.

The International Basketball Camp 'AKK. Prof. Aleksandar Nikolic ' has been working according to the programs outlined by the oldest and best known Serbian coach, member of the Basketball Hall of Fame, in Springfield, Mass, who made ​​his mark mainly on their students, and today some of the best coaches of Europe, Zeljko Obradovic and Bozidar Maljkovic, among others.

More detailed information about the Monte Basket Academy and camp 'Prof. AKK. Aleksandar Nikolic' you can find, apart from Facebook, on:

www.montebasket.com
www.youtube.com/MonteBasket
www.zlatiborbasket.rs/en


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

Stats Leaders - BSN

Points Per Game
 Al THORNTON
  Guayama
  (203-F-83)
  Avg: 25.3
 1. Thornton, Guayama25.3 
 2. Harris, San German21.4 
 3. Sensley, Humacao19.7 
 4. Dalmau, Bayamon18.9 
 5. Ramos, Quebradillas18.4 
 6. Ayuso, Arecibo18.1 
 7. Vassallo, Guaynabo16.4 
 8. Powell, Guayama16.1 
 9. Maye, Guaynabo15.5 
 10. Smith, Mayaguez15.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Mike HARRIS
  San German
  (198-F-83)
  Avg: 10.1
 1. Harris, San German10.1 
 2. Thornton, Guayama9.2 
 3. Ramos, Quebradillas9.2 
 4. Powell, Guayama9.2 
 5. Sensley, Humacao9.0 
 6. Sweetney, Bayamon8.6 
 7. O''Bryant, Mayaguez8.5 
 8. Burgess, Guaynabo8.4 
 9. Shannon, Quebradil.8.1 
 10. Pinkney, San G.7.2 
Assists Per Game
 Donta SMITH
  Mayaguez
  (201-G-83)
  Avg: 5.7
 1. Smith, Mayaguez5.7 
 2. Rivera, San German5.6 
 3. Guzman, Guaynabo5.5 
 4. Pagan, Guayama5.0 
 5. Pinnock, Arecibo4.7 
 6. Garcia, Humacao4.3 
 7. Dalmau, Bayamon4.0 
 8. Cruz, Quebradillas3.4 
 9. Rodriguez, San G.3.3 
 10. Rivera, Mayaguez3.2 
Steals Per Game
 Donta SMITH
  Mayaguez
  (201-G-83)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Smith, Mayaguez2.3 
 2. Pinnock, Arecibo1.6 
 3. Mojica, Bayamon1.6 
 4. Efejuku, Mayaguez1.3 
 5. Thornton, Guayama1.3 
 6. Figueroa, Guaynabo1.3 
 7. Rivera, San German1.3 
 8. Ramirez, Mayaguez1.3 
 9. Sensley, Humacao1.3 
 10. Pagan, Guayama1.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Mamadou LAMIZANA
  Bayamon
  (207-F/C-81)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Lamizana, Bayamon2.4 
 2. O''Bryant, Mayaguez1.9 
 3. Penn, Humacao1.8 
 4. Thornton, Guayama1.6 
 5. Shannon, Quebradil.1.6 
 6. Burgess, Guaynabo1.4 
 7. Aubry, Arecibo1.3 
 8. Powell, Guayama1.3 
 9. Ramos, Quebradillas1.2 
 10. Harris, San German1.2 


Javier Gonzalez is a newcomer at Caciques de Humacao - by Eurobasket Center

Caciques de Humacao strengthened their roster with addition of 23-year old Puerto Rican Javier Gonzalez (182-PG-89, college: N.Carolina St.). In his first game he scored 2 points helping his new team beat Quebradillas 83-74. Gonzalez played most recently at Maccabi Hod Hasharon (Israel). He just graduated North Carolina State University and it will be his first season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center


Ian Young joins Mets de Guaynabo - by Eurobasket News

Ian Young (191-PG-81, college: Auburn) signed contract with Mets de Guaynabo. The guard is meant to replace Ryan Reid (203-F-86, college: Florida St.) on the roster. Ian Young started the season in La Union in Argentina. He averaged 6.3 points, 1.5 boards and 1.5 assists per game in LigaA. Later the guard moved to Lebanon to join Antranik. His stats read 18.3 points, 5.4 assists and 4.5 boards per game in Lebanese League. Lately Ian Young headed to Venezuela to sign with Gaiteros de Zulia. His stats read 13.5 points, 2.9 assists and 2.5 rebounds per game in LPB. The guard also had stints in France, Bosnia, USBL, Germany, D-League, CBA, Saudi Arabia, Finland and Iran during his career. Ian Young is the member of Trinidad and Tobago National Team.


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  QATAR   


As Sadd clinched second place at the International Tournament of the Moroccan Sahara - by Eurobasket News

As Sadd clinched second place at the International Tournament of the Moroccan Sahara.
In opening the tournament, Qataris As Sadd beat Chabab Al Hoceima 54:51. Bulgarian BC Beroe Stara Zagora upset the team from Qatar 62:60 in Game 2. In the final game Chabab Rif Al Hoceima outscored Saad 78:61. The hosts rightfully clinched the title of the home tournament.


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  ROMANIA   

Stats Leaders - Men

Points Per Game
 Jaytonah WISSEH
  CSU Sibiu
  (185-G-88)
  Avg: 23.5
 1. Wisseh, CSU Sibiu23.5 
 2. Durham, Dinamo B.23.3 
 3. Martinic, CSM B.23.0 
 4. Krstanovic, U.Mobi.20.9 
 5. Dykes, U.Mobite.20.1 
 6. Mitchell, Gaz Metan18.7 
 7. Sims, Giurgiu18.3 
 8. Ross, Craiova18.0 
 9. Gallimore, CSM B.17.9 
 10. Haymon, Dinamo B.17.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Allen DURHAM
  Dinamo B.
  (198-F-88)
  Avg: 13.7
 1. Durham, Dinamo B.13.7 
 2. Kinloch, Pitesti9.3 
 3. Carutasu, CSM B.8.6 
 4. McKenzie, CSM B.8.6 
 5. Krstanovic, U.Mobi.8.5 
 6. Dies, Perla Harghi.8.4 
 7. Nicoara, Gaz Metan8.3 
 8. Steffel, Rovinari8.3 
 9. Riley, CSU Sibiu8.1 
 10. Vlaicu, Giurgiu7.7 
Assists Per Game
 Jaytonah WISSEH
  CSU Sibiu
  (185-G-88)
  Avg: 7.3
 1. Wisseh, CSU Sibiu7.3 
 2. Cooley, Targu M.6.2 
 3. Maric, Oradea6.1 
 4. Vlahovic, Ploiesti5.5 
 5. Sims, Giurgiu5.5 
 6. Nikolic, Rovinari5.4 
 7. Howell, Gaz Metan5.3 
 8. Martinic, CSM B.5.3 
 9. Long, Perla Harghi.5.0 
 10. Jovanovic, Timiso.5.0 
Steals Per Game
 Jaytonah WISSEH
  CSU Sibiu
  (185-G-88)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Wisseh, CSU Sibiu2.9 
 2. Cooley, Targu M.2.6 
 3. Tucker, Perla H.2.1 
 4. Howell, Gaz Metan2.1 
 5. Dykes, U.Mobite.1.9 
 6. Mitchell, Gaz Metan1.9 
 7. Hargrove, Ploiesti1.9 
 8.