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

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


Men News

*****************************************************
  ABA   



Raleigh RoughRiders tryout date and information - by Bruno Baltazar

The Raleigh RoughRiders will have their tryout on April 7th and they invite everybody that wants to tryout for them to join them,here is the information.
REGISTRATION GUIDELINES:

All participants are required to pre-register (using this Registration Form) however they are NOT required to pay to register. You are required to pay to participate in the tryout camp!

PRE-PAYMENT: $80. Pay online before April 3rd, 2012 and save $20.00.

SAME DAY PAYMENT: $100. Tryout fee can be paid on the date of the tryout beginning at 4:00 p.m.. Money Orders Only! Make money orders out to: Summit Entertainment and Sports Group LLC (SESG) NO CHECKS! NO CASH! NO DEBIT CARDS! Pay now online and the cost for the tryout is ONLY $80!!!!!!

$80.00 Pay online now for tryout camp discount of 20%. I am registered for the Raleigh RoughRiders Tryout Camp and will pay online now. Save $20 off the regular fee. Pre-registration deadline is March 20th, 2012,$100.00 Cost for Tryout Camp on April 7th. I am registering for the Raleigh RoughRider however I am not ready to pay today. I will pay on the day of the camp beginning 4:00 p.m.

Here is the link http://www.raleighroughriders.com/ under the tryout link.
The Raleigh RoughRiders will be joining the Continental Basketball League this spring. The RoughRiders are scheduled to begin play when the CBL regular season begins on May 1st. There will be 14 games during the regular season, with 7 home contests to be played at The Dream Center Entertainment Complex in north Raleigh.Johnny Tyson (6'11''-F/C-71, college: Cent.Oklahoma) is the head coach.


*****************************************************
  ADRIATIC LEAGUE   


The last game of the regular season to be played on April 14 in Tel Aviv - by Rado Markovic

Last game of the regular season of the Adriatic League season 2011/12 is to be played on April 14 in Tel Aviv between Buducnost Voli and Maccabi Electra. It is the game of the 20th round, which should be held in the beginning of february, but was postponed due to bad weather conditions.
The game will decide nothing, as the two teams have already qualified for the Final Four Tournament, which will take place in Tel Aviv from April 28-30. Maccabi has took the first position after regular season with 24-1 record, while Buducnost finished 4th with 17 wins and 8 losses.
What is interesting is that the two teams will meet in semi-finals of the Final Four Tournament also in the game which should be a lot more dramatic than the upcoming one.


*****************************************************
  ALBANIA   

Standings - A1

A1 Standings
Group A
 1. SK Tirana 13-0 
 2. Kamza Basket 11-2 
 3. Teuta Durres 5-8 
 4. Flamurtari 5-8 
 5. Vllaznia Shk. 5-8 
 6. U.A.T. 0-13 
Group B
 1. Apolonia 3-0 
 2. Partizani Tirana 2-2 
 3. Pogradeci 0-3 

Regular Season: Round 15

Apr. 10: Vllaznia Shk. - U.A.T.
Apr. 10: SK Tirana - Kamza Basket
Apr. 10: Flamurtari - Teuta Durres



*****************************************************
  ANGUILLA   

AABA Standings

AABA Standings
 1. Shottaz 10-0
 2. Raiders 8-1
 3. Hoyas 7-3
 4. Youngsters 6-4
 5. Hard Knox 4-5
 6. New Breed 2-5
 7. Outlaws 2-6
 8. SJSM 1-7
 9. Spartans 1-10


AABA: 2012 regular season results and standings (until today) - by Eurobasket News

2012 Anguilla Amateur Basketball League started on February 23. Many games were played so far. Game results and standigs can be checked below.

REGULAR SEASON RESULTS
Date Home Team Away Team
Sunday, Apr 1st, 2012 Youngsters - 56 Shottaz - 61
Sunday, Apr 1st, 2012 Raiders - 80 SJSM - 56
Saturday, Mar 31st, 2012 Shottaz - 53 Hoyas - 46
Saturday, Mar 31st, 2012 Hard Knox - 59 ALHCS Spartans - 48
Friday, Mar 30th, 2012 SJSM - 50 Outlaws - 58
Friday, Mar 30th, 2012 Raiders - 46 ALHCS Spartans - 25
Thursday, Mar 29th, 2012 Hoyas - 2 New Breed - 0
Wednesday, Mar 28th, 2012 SJSM - 38 Youngsters - 50
Tuesday, Mar 27th, 2012 Hard Knox - 60 Raiders - 71
Tuesday, Mar 27th, 2012 Shottaz - 70 New Breed - 64
Sunday, Mar 25th, 2012 Youngsters - 49 Hoyas - 67
Sunday, Mar 25th, 2012 ALHCS Spartans - 28 New Breed - 67
Saturday, Mar 24th, 2012 Raiders - 76 Outlaws - 64
Saturday, Mar 24th, 2012 Shottaz - 66 Hard Knox - 63
Friday, Mar 23rd, 2012 New Breed - 55 Hoyas - 74
Friday, Mar 23rd, 2012 Youngsters - 94 ALHCS Spartans - 37
Thursday, Mar 22nd, 2012 Hard Knox - 73 Outlaws - 62
Sunday, Mar 18th, 2012 ALHCS Spartans - 0 Shottaz - 2
Friday, Mar 16th, 2012 Youngsters - 71 Outlaws - 61
Thursday, Mar 15th, 2012 ALHCS Spartans - 33 Hoyas - 78
Tuesday, Mar 13th, 2012 SJSM - 42 Shottaz - 75
Tuesday, Mar 13th, 2012 ALHCS Spartans - 36 Raiders - 64
Sunday, Mar 11th, 2012 SJSM - 45 Hard Knox - 81
Sunday, Mar 11th, 2012 Shottaz - 57 ALHCS Spartans - 36
Saturday, Mar 10th, 2012 Hoyas - 43 Youngsters - 52
Saturday, Mar 10th, 2012 Outlaws - 74 New Breed - 71
Thursday, Mar 8th, 2012 Hoyas - 70 Outlaws - 50
Sunday, Mar 4th, 2012 Shottaz - 59 Raiders - 42
Sunday, Mar 4th, 2012 Youngsters - 64 SJSM - 45
Saturday, Mar 3rd, 2012 Outlaws - 51 Hard Knox - 71
Saturday, Mar 3rd, 2012 Hoyas - 79 ALHCS Spartans - 26
Friday, Mar 2nd, 2012 Shottaz - 84 SJSM - 39
Friday, Mar 2nd, 2012 New Breed - 48 Youngsters - 53
Thursday, Mar 1st, 2012 Raiders - 74 Hard Knox - 60
Monday, Feb 27th, 2012 Outlaws - 49 Shottaz - 78 BO
Monday, Feb 27th, 2012 Hard Knox - 49 New Breed - 58
Sunday, Feb 26th, 2012 Hoyas - 58 Raiders - 60
Sunday, Feb 26th, 2012 ALHCS Spartans - 2 Youngsters - 0
Friday, Feb 24th, 2012 Youngsters - 58 Raiders - 70
Friday, Feb 24th, 2012 SJSM - 75 ALHCS Spartans - 32
Thursday, Feb 23rd, 2012 Hoyas - 60 Hard Knox - 52

Box-scores are available HERE.

2012 REGULAR SEASON STANDINGS
Rank Team Wins Losses Win% Points
1 Shottaz 10 0 1.000 31
2 Raiders 8 1 0.889 25
3 Hoyas 7 3 0.700 24
4 Youngsters 6 4 0.600 21
5 Hard Knox 4 5 0.444 17
6 Outlaws 2 6 0.250 13
7 ALHCS Spartans 1 10 0.091 12
8 New Breed 2 5 0.286 10
9 SJSM 1 7 0.125 10


AABA 2012: Schedule for rest of the season - by Eurobasket News

2012 Anguilla Amateur Basketball League started on February 23 and there are more than 30 games to be played. Schedule for rest of the season can be checked below.

2012 Anguilla Amateur Basketball League - schedule
Date Court Home Team Away Team Time
Tuesday, Apr 3rd, 2012 Stoney Ground Court SJSM - Hoyas 6:30 pm
Tuesday, Apr 3rd, 2012 Stoney Ground Court New Breed - Outlaws 8:00 pm
Thursday, Apr 12th, 2012 North Hill Court Raiders - Shottaz 7:30 pm
Friday, Apr 13th, 2012 Valley Court Hoyas - SJSM 7:00 pm
Friday, Apr 13th, 2012 Valley Court Youngsters - Hard Knox 8:30 pm
Saturday, Apr 14th, 2012 Valley Court New Breed - Shottaz 7:00 pm
Saturday, Apr 14th, 2012 Valley Court Outlaws - Raiders 8:30 pm
Sunday, Apr 15th, 2012 Valley Court ALHCS Spartans - SJSM 6:00 pm
Sunday, Apr 15th, 2012 Valley Court Hard Knox - Hoyas 7:30 pm
Thursday, Apr 19th, 2012 North Hill Court ALHCS Spartans Outlaws 7:30 pm
Friday, Apr 20th, 2012 Valley Court Hard Knox SJSM 7:00 pm
Friday, Apr 20th, 2012 Valley Court Raiders - New Breed 8:30 pm
Saturday, Apr 21st, 2012 Valley Court Shottaz - Youngsters 7:00 pm
Saturday, Apr 21st, 2012 Valley Court Outlaws Hoyas 8:30 pm
Sunday, Apr 22nd, 2012 Valley Court New Breed - Hard Knox 6:00 pm
Sunday, Apr 22nd, 2012 Valley Court Raiders Hoyas 7:30 pm
Thursday, Apr 26th, 2012 North Hill Court Raiders Youngsters 7:30 pm
Friday, Apr 27th, 2012 Valley Court Hard Knox - Shottaz 7:00 pm
Friday, Apr 27th, 2012 Valley Court Outlaws SJSM 8:30 pm
Saturday, Apr 28th, 2012 Valley Court New Breed SJSM 8:30 pm
Sunday, Apr 29th, 2012 Valley Court New Breed Raiders 6:00 pm
Sunday, Apr 29th, 2012 Valley Court Outlaws Youngsters 7:30 pm
Thursday, May 3rd, 2012 North Hill Court Shottaz Outlaws 7:30 pm
Friday, May 4th, 2012 Valley Court Outlaws ALHCS Spartans 7:00 pm
Friday, May 4th, 2012 Valley Court Youngsters New Breed 8:30 pm
Saturday, May 5th, 2012 Valley Court SJSM Raiders 7:00 pm
Saturday, May 5th, 2012 Valley Court Hoyas Shottaz 8:30 pm
Sunday, May 6th, 2012 Valley Court New Breed - ALHCS Spartans 6:00 pm
Sunday, May 6th, 2012 Valley Court Hard Knox - Youngsters 7:30 pm
Tuesday, May 8th, 2012 Valley Court ALHCS Spartans - Hard Knox 6:30 pm
Tuesday, May 8th, 2012 Valley Court SJSM - New Breed 8:00 pm


*****************************************************
  ANTIGUA   


'Pudding' drives final nail into Tapers' coffin - by Eurobasket News

ST JOHNS, Antigua - Kareem 'Pudding' Bailey of Coast Outlaws made what turned out to be the winning basket of a highly intense and competitive Antigua & Barbuda Basketball Association (ABBA) Division One game, as he gave his team a two-point victory over Newfield Tapers when they met in the feature contest.

Bailey, who finished the contest with just seven points, three assists and four rebounds, made the jump-shot from just inside the offensive paint, as the final buzzer sounded to record the 81-79 victory at JSC Sports Complex.

Michael Xavier and Felix Hamilton top-scored for Outlaws with 16 points each, while Raymond Dickenson sank 14 points and grabbed 16 rebounds in the winning effort.

For Tapers, Jules Williams dominated with 35 points and five rebounds, while Erick Henry added 16 points and grabbed six rebounds.

In the nights opening contest, Big Banana Express had the better of inet Ottos, 79-73.

Linday McDonald led the way for Express with 24 points and seven rebounds, while George Francis also picked up 24 points and 16 rebounds.

In a losing effort, Ade Jarvis sank 20 points and had 12 rebounds, while Curl Simon had 15 points and nine rebounds.

The competition is played on a nightly basis.

Courtesy of www.antiguaobserver.com


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


Torneo federal playoffs - by Facundo Iatzky

After the end of regular season, these will be the playoffs of torneo federal, where 16 teams will look for the promotion to TNA.

North zone:
Hindu Resistencia - Adelante Reconquista
brown san vicente - santa rita esquina
La union colon - social las brenas
Talleres Tafi viejo - union santa fe

South zone:
Barrio Parque Cordoba - Velez Sarsfield
San lorenzo Chivilcoy - facundo La rioja
independiente Tandil - anzorena Mendoza
Instituto Cordoba - Villa mitre

The first round of playoffs is to the best of 3 games.


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


SBL: Lakeside take advantage as Wolves fall (Round 3 men's wrap) - by Eurobasket News

Lakeside Lightning took advantage of Wanneroo's shock loss to Willetton to climb to the top of the men's State Basketball League table after round three.

The Wolves had been the early pace-setters but saw their unbeaten streak end with a 103-85 loss to the Tigers, which allowed Lakeside to climb to first after its gutsy 99-92 win at Geraldton.

The Lightning's win, which came on the back of Luke Payne's 30 points, left them as the only team with a perfect record and also saw the Buccaneers drop to seventh spot with their second loss from four games.

But the biggest shock of the round was Willetton's convincing win at Wanneroo, which couldn't even get within 10 points after quarter-time.

Ephrem Davis (206-F-86) led the Tigers with 24 points, while Jordan Wild (203-F, college: Fresno Pacific) had a game-high 26 but it wasn't enough to cover the absences of coach Ben Ettridge, who was away with his Australian Rollers duties, or starting centre Damian Matacz (at a wedding).

It wasn't all good for Willetton though, with Ben Purser's late jump shot under pressure proving the winner for Perry Lakes in a 98-97 triumph.

The Wildcats development player excelled with 26 points and nine rebounds to help the Hawks improve to 3-1.

Perth Redbacks jumped to second place as they continued their impressive rise with a 114-103 triumph against Mandurah.

Wildcats trainee Michael Vigor (206-F/C-90) led Perth to its fourth win from five games with 33 points and 19 rebounds, while the Magic's loss saw it drop to ninth.

Stirling Senators put an inconsistent start behind them with convincing wins against South West Slammers and East Perth Eagles.

The Eagles remain winless after falling 103-92 while the Senators brought South West back down to earth following its breakthrough victory the week before with a 113-76 annihilation in Bunbury.

Kalamunda broke its duck thanks to a shock 90-86 win at Goldfields, which extended the Giants' losing streak in the absence of import Darnell Dialls to three games.

And Rockingham remains anchored to the bottom of the table after losing 84-70 to Cockburn, which has now won its past two games to move to eighth spot.

Article by Jacob Kagi
Courtesy of: SBL


SBL: Round 3 Men's Power Rankings - by Eurobasket News


1. Lakeside Lightning (first place, 4-0 record) - Lakeside are about to enter their most difficult stretch of the season, with the bulk of their next 10 games tough on paper. Still, you'd have to back the Lightning to win the bulk of them given how convincing they've been so far.

2. Australian Belt Scrapers Wanneroo Wolves (third, 4-1) - Losing to Willetton isn't reason to panic, but it is a bit of a concern. They were without Damian Matacz (205-C-79, college: N.Michigan) and Hire which was likely the explanation, but they'll be hoping the below-par effort had nothing to do with Ben Ettridge's absence since he'll miss the pointy end of the season.

3. Perth Redbacks (second, 4-1) - The Redbacks continue to impress and much of it is due to Michael Vigor's huge improvement. The big man is averaging 24 and 10 to help put Perth on course for the top four.

4. Southlands Boulevarde Willetton Tigers (sixth, 2-2) - It's hard to fault a weekend that saw them beat the defending champions, but a home loss to Perry Lakes shouldn't be happening. But if the Tigers beat Cockburn they could get on a roll with a friendly upcoming run.

5. Total Connections Perry Lakes Hawks (fourth, 3-1) - Perry Lakes have flown under the radar a little bit, but given their only loss so far is against Perth they've been impressive. After hosting Wanneroo they face Lakeside and Geraldton away though, so they could be about to slide.

6. Sun City Plumbing Geraldton Buccaneers (seventh, 2-2) - The Buccs need to make Active West Stadium a fortress to contend for the title, but a narrow loss to Lakeside without an import is hardly a disgrace. Should win their next three against the Giants, Eagles and Flames.

7. Cockburn Cougars (eighth, 2-2) - Given they're still short an import, Cockburn have been quite impressive so far. Willetton this week will be a major test, but don't be surprised if the Cougars score an upset.

8. Mandurah Magic (ninth, 2-2) - The Magic fought hard but fell short against Perth but they're still showing some good signs. Their next two are against the Slammers and Flames and they have to take advantage if they want to play finals.

9. John Hughes Stirling Senators (fifth, 3-2) - Stirling always should've beaten East Perth and South West, but the way they did it was impressive. Now it's time for them to stand up against the top teams, with a brutal next three against Lakeside, Wanneroo and Perth.

10. Silver Lake Resources Goldfields Giants (11th, 1-3) - The Giants need to pull something out ASAP or they're going to be in a hole almost impossible to recover from. In their next three games they face Geraldton and Lakeside away and host Willetton. They're likely to be 1-6 and it's going to be very hard to make the playoffs from there.

11. Kalamunda Eastern Suns (12th, 1-3) - The Suns were desperate for a win in Kalgoorlie and they delivered with a thrilling four point triumph. With their next four games against the Eagles, Slammers, Magic and Senators, Kalamunda could get on a roll.

12. People's Choice East Perth Eagles (13th, 0-4) - If the Eagles are going to win a game before their round eight clash against Rockingham, it probably has to be this week against Kalamunda. It could get pretty ugly for Adam Forde's side if they lose.

13. Collie Crane Hire South West Slammers (10th, 1-2) - Just when you think the Slammers could be on the right track, they get annihilated by 37 points at home by Stirling. Given their other home game was a 38 point loss, it's a big concern. At least they won't go winless this year.

14. Rockingham Flames (14th, 0-4) - Only one of the Flames' four losses has been by less than 14 points, which was still a comfortable nine point triumph for Goldfields. Highly unlikely to win any of their next three, which come against Willetton, Mandurah and Geraldton.

Article by Jacob Kagi
Courtesy of: SBL


Jamar Wilson re-signs with Snakes - by Eurobasket News

In a major coup for the Skytrans Cairns Taipans, livewire import point guard Jamar Wilson (185-PG-84, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Albany) has signed with the club for the next two seasons.

The announcement took place today at Cairns ZOOm - an exciting new soft adventure attraction scheduled to open in July at the Cairns Wildlife Dome, which is part of the Woodward family CaPTA group.. As part of the Joe Blake Early Bird 'Spend to the Cap' contribution, Cairns ZOOm directly assisted in securing Jamar as the point guard for the Taipans for the next two seasons.

Wilson had an outstanding individual season for the Snakes, leading the team in scoring and assists in his first season in Australia and also finished 2nd overall to league MVP Kevin Lisch.

'I'm ecstatic that I am going to be a Taipan and in Cairns for the next two years,' said Wilson.

'I fell in love with Cairns the first week I was here.'

'The sunshine, the people, the place - and that was even before I got onto the playing court.'

Wilson was then asked what he would be looking for to help the team improve in his next 2 seasons in Cairns.

'The club has started to build a fantastic culture - and I want to be a part of that,' said Wilson.

'We feel we have unfinished business to attend to, especially after making the Grand Final last season and being one game from playoff contention this season. We not only owe it to ourselves but we owe it to our fans and the city of Cairns as well'

Head Coach of the Skytrans Cairns Taipans Aaron Fearne was rapt about having Wilson sign on the dotted line.

'Jamar played some fantastic basketball this season, and that confirmed by him being runner up for the NBL MVP award,' said Fearne.

'He is obviously is a pretty special player and to have him here for another two seasons is fantastic. I believe this team will see a lot of success with Jamar as our point guard.'

Wilson was known throughout the NBL as the best closer in the competition, something that coach Fearne believes is a massive advantage and why his signature was such a priority for the club to retain.

'At the back end of tight games, I knew we had the advantage of having him (Wilson) there,' said Fearne.

'He did some unbelievable things to keep us in games and to close games for us, that is something a lot of teams don't have in their repertoire.'

'He is our go to man in those situations and I feel more than confident to put the ball in his hands if the game is on the line.'

General Manager of the Skytrans Cairns Taipans Mark Beecroft agreed with Coach Fearne's statement about Wilson's on court capabilities but also commented on what he brought to the club off the court.

'He has been outstanding for the Club both on and off the court,' said Beecroft.

'Jamar's personality, his outlook to basketball, and the excitement he provides the fans with the way he plays - were all fundamental to how we see the Club moving forward with our playing group'.

'Jamar is a pleasure to have around and we are all excited that he is going to be here in a Snakes uniform for the next two seasons and we cannot thank Cairns ZOOm enough for assisting us in making this happen.'

Courtesy of NBL (www.nbl.com.au)


Cedric Jackson injured at Breakers training - by Eurobasket News

The New Zealand Breakers' most influential player looks unlikely to play in Thursday's do-or-die NBL semifinal in Townsville after suffering what appeared a major ankle injury right at the end of training today.

American point guard Cedric Jackson (191-G-86, college: Cleveland St.), widely considered the best overall player in the league throughout the regular season, badly injured his left ankle on a drive to the hoop on what ended up the final play of an intense series of scrimmages.

Jackson took a bump from big man Alex Pledger as he made one of his trademark darts to the hoop and appeared to land awkwardly on a left ankle that has given him problems all year.

His anguish was immediately evident, the American howling in agony as he writhed around on the floor. He had to be carried from the court and was whisked away immediately to hospital for further assessment.

Given his obvious pain levels, his inability to put any weight on the ankle and the fact that the injury occurred in an already problematic area, the signs are not good for Jackson being able to play any part in Thursday night's must-win visit to 'The Swamp'.

And that's a huge setback for the Breakers, considering they would have been looking to the classy point guard to lead the response after the flat showing in the opening game defeat last Friday night.

The Breakers lost that game 99-82 to dig themselves a major hole in their quest for back-to-back NBL titles.

Jackson had 15 points in the defeat, but his two rebounds and three assists were well below his season averages. He also went zero-for-five from deep and was outplayed by fellow American Eddie Gill in the point guard matchup.

But prior to his untimely injury Jackson had looked fired up to lead the charge this week.

The setback does add to the dj-vu factor in comparison with last season's charge to the title.

In 2011 the Breakers also came out flat and lost the opening game of their semifinal series at home (101-78), against the Perth Wildcats, and had to make the long haul to West Australia facing elimination on their opponents' court.

They also made the trip with power forward Mika Vukona under a serious injury cloud, with the Tall Black having badly hurt his knee early in that NSEC defeat.

But Vukona shocked everyone - team-mates included - by playing, and featured prominently in a famous series-levelling 93-89 victory that would provide the catalyst for the charge to the title.

Courtesy of www.stuff.co.nz


*****************************************************
  BAHAMAS   

Standings

NPBA Standings
John Archer Div.
 1. Giants 12-4
 2. Stingers 11-4
 3. Crime Stoppers 9-7
 4. Wreckers 7-9
 5. Conquerors 5-11
 6. Mariners 2-14
Vince Ferguson Div.
 1. Cybots 14-2
 2. Shockers 10-5
 3. Digitals 7-9
 4. Rockets 7-9
 5. Pros 6-10
 6. C.O.B. Caribs 5-10


High hopes for Bullard - by Eurobasket News

SINCE dominating at St Bedes, then at Westminster College and now at Ridley College in Canada, Geno Bullard (G-92) has matured into one of the most highly acclaimed junior basketball players in The Bahamas.

With his high school career coming to an end, Bullard is now being recognised by international scouts in the United States, a crucial step in elevating his game to an elite level.

The 18-year-old, 5 11 tall and 170 pound point guard received an invitation to the USA Junior National All-State Competition, one of the top competitions for prep basketball players in North America.

Scheduled for April 1, at the High Velocity Sports Complex in Canton, Michigan, the event is viewed as an entry level for athletes seeking to compete in national team events or receive further exposure for collegiate scouting.

Bullard will compete in the Michigan/Canada competition, recognised as one of the most outstanding players in his region.

As a versatile athlete, Bullard has track and field to fall back on if he doesn't achieve the success he so much in basketball.

He admitted in an interview with The Tribune earlier in the year that that he expects to excel in his first love basketball.

He just added some additional awards to his rsum this past season.

'Some people say I'm a combo guard, but I see myself as a true point guard,' said Bullard, who made it to the All-Star game between the top 10 players in the Niagara region when he was named as the co-MVP, I have been talking to at least 10 coaches, but I haven't decided on where I want to play yet, he said.

Bullard said he is still waiting on the results from his SAT scores to make that decision. 'I made a lot of progress, but I still have a lot of work to do.

The USA Junior Nationals summer teams will be formed from the series of events and will represent their states at the USA Junior Nationals International Sports Festival from July 16-22 in Columbus, Ohio.

After his final year at Westminster, Bullard visited Canada a few times with his father, four-time Bahamas Association of Independent Secondary Schools Sports (BAISS) champion with the Diplomats, Geno Bullard Sr.

When it came time to look at secondary school education, he checked out a number of schools in the United States before settling on Ridley.

'I always knew Geno's athletics will be there, but to be a great athlete, his academics have to be on key, said his father. So to be a better student-athlete, he has to be able to balance the two. This is his last year so he has to be in a better position to be able to put himself where any school that recruits him will be delighted in what he brings to the table.'

Courtesy of www.tribune242.com


Baptist basketball league heats up - by Eurobasket News

MACEDONIA Baptist and Temple Fellowship split their head-to-head match-up Saturday as the Baptist Sports Council continued its 2012 Basketball League at Baillou Hills Sporting Complex.

In the 15-and-under division, three-time defending champions Macedonia Baptist were stunned by last year's runners-up Temple Fellowship 34-22. While Temple Fellowship stayed undefeated, it was the first loss for Macedonia.

But in the men's division, Macedonia returned the favour as they pulled off an impressive 52-33 decision over the defending champions Temple Fellowship.

Macedonia remained undefeated with the win and they also doubled up with a 44-40 decision over ENYPD, while Temple Fellowship suffered its first loss.

In other games played, ENYPD held off Hope Centre (15-and-under) 29-27, Temple Fellowship knocked off St Mark's (19-and-under) 50-44, Golden Gates nipped BIBA (men) 37-36, Mt Nebo got by St Mark's (19-and-under) 45-42, Hope Centre out-lasted Evangelistic Centre (men) 46-38), Golden Gates def. Church of the Nazarene (men) 38-24, St John's No.1 def. St. John's No.2 (15-and-under) 24-18, Macedonia No.1 blasted Christian Tabernacle (19-and-under) 60-33, Macedonia No.2 held off Golden Gates 33-32 and St Mark's won over St John's (men) 47-44.


Here's a summary of the games played:


Temple Fellowship 34,

Macedonia 22

Edajh Fox scored 14 points and Tamico Coakley added nine in their 15-and-under win. Shamar Burrows had seven in the loss.


Macedonia 52,

Temple Fellowship 33

Patrick Brice scored 13 points and Delano Knowles added 12 in their men's win. Eugene Bain had 10 and Cruz Simon six in the loss.


Macedonia 44, ENYPD 40

Van Hutchinson scored 14 points and Abel Joseph had 13 in their men's win. Kenneth Pratt had a game high 22 and Dario McKenzie eight in the loss.

Hope Center 46, Evangelistic Center 38

Devonn Brennen scored 16 points and Henry Burnside added eight in their men's win. Tino Sands had 12 and Chris Sands eight in the loss.

Golden Gates 38, Church of the Nazarene 24

Steven Culmer scored 13 points and Khalid Roberts chipped in with 11 in their men's win. Wilnir Noel 12 in a losing effort.


Macedonia No.1 60,

Christian Tabernacle 33

LeVigi Forbes exploded for a game high 30 points and James Rolle added nine in their 19-and-under win. Leonardo Collie scored 15 and Lloyd Bailey had 11 in the loss.

Macedonia No.2 33,

Golden Gates 32

#Karon Pratt scored 19 points and J'Von Calderon added seven in their 19-and-under win. Dominique Beadle had 11 and Dustin McKenzie seven in the loss.


St Mark's 47, St John's 44

Gibson Alcidor scored 18 and Renardo Benson had 13 in their men's victory. Kervan Mortimer had 13 and Jaleel Dames had nine in the loss.

Golden Gates 37, BIBA 36

Justin McKenzie and Denny Moxey both had six points in their men's win. Tino Thurston had a game high 13 and AJ Anderson added five in the loss.

Mt Nebo 45, St Mark's 42

Dennis Brown scored 18 points and Jamal Miller added 13 in their 19-and-under win.


Temple Fellowship 50,

St Mark's 44

Randy Miller scored 13 points and Jason Cambridge added eight in their 19-and-under win. Dario Dean had nine in the loss.

St John's No.1 24,

St John's No.2 18

Jamal Simon scored 11 points and Dwight Wheatley added seven in their 15-and-under win. Brentino Nottage had eight in the loss.


A look at Saturday's schedule:


Court One

10am - Macedonia vs ENYPD (15)

11am - Macedonia No.2 vs ENYPD (19)

Noon - Temple Fellowship vs Christian Tabernacle (19)

1pm - ENYPD vs Macedonia No.1 (19)

2pm - South Beach vs Temple Fellowship (M)

3pm - Macedonia vs Church of the Nazarene (M)

4pm - ENYPD vs Temple Fellowship (M)


Court Two

10am - Temple Fellowship vs Hope Center (15)

11am - Mt Nebo vs St John's (19)

Noon - St Mark's vs Golden Gates (19)

1pm - St Mark's vs Golden Gates No.2 (M)

2pm - Hope Center vs St John's (M)

3pm - Evangelistic Center vs BIBA (M)

4pm - Golden Gates No.2 vs St. John's (M)

Courtesy of www.tribune242.com


Giants a series win away from 3-peat - by Eurobasket News

The Commonwealth Bank Giants are now just one series win away from three-peating as the New Providence Basketball Association (NPBA) champions.

At DW Davis gym Monday night, the Giants returned to the final after sweeping the PJ Stingers in their semifinal series with a 101-88 rout in the clincher.

Mark Hanna (F/C) led five players in double figures with 25 points and seven rebounds. Jacobi Jackson (198-F) helped out with 23 points, Ricardo Pierre (188-G-72, college: SE Nebraska CC) had 15, Michael Bain 14 and Gamelial Rose added 12.

For the Stingers, who took an 18-15 lead after the first quarter but ended up trailing 40-34 at the half and 69-57 at the end of the third, Darshtyn Baker had a game high 27 points. Four other players also scored in double figures with Batchelette LaFleur scoring 15, Devon Ferguson 13, Kevin Hinsey 11 and Sharrano Bowleg 10.

'I'm pretty much grateful for the performance of the team at this point,' said Commonwealth Bank coach Perry Thompson. 'Unknowingly to a lot of people, we have been nursing some injuries here and there when we started playing the playoffs.

'But we have tried to change our focus from offense to a more defensive mindset and some of the things we talked about was playing better defense and boxing out and controlling the ball and trying to limit our opponents from scoring. I think we have done a pretty good job on the Stingers.'

Now that they have swept aside the Stingers, the Giants will now await the winner of the other half of the semifinal between the MailBoat Cybots and the Real Deal Shockers.

On Monday night, the Cybots evened their series at 1-1 with a 98-90 win over the Shockers. In a balanced scoring attack, Ahmad Bootle paced the MailBoat attack with a game high 24 points and seven rebounds.

Nelson 'Mandella' Joseph had 17 points and 10 rebounds, Tyrone Sands 13 points and eight rebounds, Eugene Bain 11 points and nine rebounds, Billy Sands 10 points and both Brian Bain and Jermaine Storr nine apiece.

The Shockers opened a 16-14 first quarter lead that they extended to 43-40 at the half before they ended up tied at 63 after the third. Jeremy Hutchinson scored 21 points and nine rebounds.

Floyd Armbrister, Barry Carter and Khari Thompson all had 13 points with Carter and Thompson pulling down seven and six rebounds respectively. Amon Baker chipped in with eight points.

Coach Thompson, whose Giants won their only regular season meeting over the Cybots but lost to the Shockers, said they are just hoping that they can carry their momentum into the championship against whoever they meet.

'Over the past six years, we have really been battling with both of these teams,' he said. 'It's not really a particular preference. We just have to wait and see who comes out of it.

'We will just sit down and plan for both teams. The only good thing about it is we still have a couple of players who are hurt, so hopefully the extra days to rest will give them a chance to heal and get ready for the championship round.'

Thompson said the league has been such a balanced one that it's anybody's chance to win it all. It just depends on who comes out and wants it more, he said, adding that his team is hungry to repeat as champions.

Game three of the Cybots versus Shockers semifinals series is slated for 7:30pm tonight at DW Davis. Game four is set for Friday and, if necessary, the fifth and deciding game will be played Saturday.

If the series doesn't go the distance, the championship series between the winner and the Giants could open as early as Saturday night.

Whenever it starts, Thompson said they will be ready.

Courtesy of www.tribune242.com


Sarone holds court with annual clinic - by Eurobasket News

High school basketball players in New Providence got an opportunity to test their skills this weekend, at the first annual All Caribbean Basketball Invitational. The campers went through a series of drills and evaluation tests, used by many of the young male basketball players in the United States of America (USA) for training. The two-day camp was hosted by Bahamian basketball player Sarone Kennedy who has enjoyed a long run in the sport. Kennedy and his wife Staffica Bain-Kennedy were both national team standouts, who have played on the collegiate level.

What we want to do is better the skills set of the players at home, said Kennedy. So the camp is for the betterment of those who are in attendance. This is the first year and we look to do more events. I work for Caribbean Basketball Network, which is a scouting agency for players in the Caribbean. What we do is try to scout players here in the Caribbean. Try to find the best. Players with good attitudes, good grades and skills and assist with them being scouted so that they can move on.

The invitational was held at the Anatol Rodgers gymnasium. More than 60 young men took part on the Friday and Kennedy was looking to improve that number on Saturday. Before hitting the court for group play, campers went through a series of drills which included metrics, full body fitness and skills tests. Dario Dean, starting forward for the Anatol Rodgers Timberwolves high school said the camp has opened up his eyes to a new level of training. He is hoping to use the skills learned and apply to his game.

We were exposed to a lot of the drills and exercises that we dont get to do here at home. I feel as though the players abroad, they have an advantage over us because they have a better coaching system. The first annual Coach Kennedy camp has exposed us to what we need to do. I feel it will help me drastically in my game. I need to get a lot stronger because the players away [are] probably much stronger than we are. I know that I can do it if I continue to work hard.

Kennedy was also employed with the American Basketball Association. He has connections with the National Junior Collegiate Athletic Association (NJCAA), NIKE, Athletes in Action, Basketball Connections and Caribbean Basketball Network.

Courtesy of www.thenassauguardian.com


Giants A Series Win Away From 3-Peat - by Eurobasket

The Commonwealth Bank Giants are now just one series win away from three-peating as the New Providence Basketball Association (NPBA) champions.
At DW Davis gym Monday night, the Giants returned to the final after sweeping the PJ Stingers in their semifinal series with a 101-88 rout in the clincher.
Mark Hanna (F/C) led five players in double figures with 25 points and seven rebounds. Jacobi Jackson (198-F) helped out with 23 points, Ricardo Pierre (188-G-72, college: SE Nebraska CC) had 15, Michael Bain (G/F) 14 and Gamelial Rose added 12.
For the Stingers, who took an 18-15 lead after the first quarter but ended up trailing 40-34 at the half and 69-57 at the end of the third, Darshtyn Baker had a game high 27 points. Four other players also scored in double figures with Batchelette LaFleur scoring 15, Devon Ferguson 13, Kevin Hinsey (193-G/F) 11 and Sharrano Bowleg 10.
'I'm pretty much grateful for the performance of the team at this point,' said Commonwealth Bank coach Perry Thompson . 'Unknowingly to a lot of people, we have been nursing some injuries here and there when we started playing the playoffs.
'But we have tried to change our focus from offense to a more defensive mindset and some of the things we talked about was playing better defense and boxing out and controlling the ball and trying to limit our opponents from scoring. I think we have done a pretty good job on the Stingers.'
Now that they have swept aside the Stingers, the Giants will now await the winner of the other half of the semifinal between the MailBoat Cybots and the Real Deal Shockers.
On Monday night, the Cybots evened their series at 1-1 with a 98-90 win over the Shockers. In a balanced scoring attack, Ahmad Bootle paced the MailBoat attack with a game high 24 points and seven rebounds.
Nelson Joseph (188-G-78, college: Anderson, IN) had 17 points and 10 rebounds, Tyrone Sands 13 points and eight rebounds, Eugene Bain (195-F-88) 11 points and nine rebounds, Billy Sands 10 points and both Brian Bain (190-G-81, college: Armstr.Atlantic) and Jermaine Storr nine apiece.
The Shockers opened a 16-14 first quarter lead that they extended to 43-40 at the half before they ended up tied at 63 after the third. Jeremy Hutchinson (C-80) scored 21 points and nine rebounds.
Floyd Armbrister, Barry Carter and Khari Thompson (193-G) all had 13 points with Carter and Thompson pulling down seven and six rebounds respectively. Amon Baker chipped in with eight points.
Coach Thompson, whose Giants won their only regular season meeting over the Cybots but lost to the Shockers, said they are just hoping that they can carry their momentum into the championship against whoever they meet.
'Over the past six years, we have really been battling with both of these teams,' he said. 'It's not really a particular preference. We just have to wait and see who comes out of it.
'We will just sit down and plan for both teams. The only good thing about it is we still have a couple of players who are hurt, so hopefully the extra days to rest will give them a chance to heal and get ready for the championship round.'
Thompson said the league has been such a balanced one that it's anybody's chance to win it all. It just depends on who comes out and wants it more, he said, adding that his team is hungry to repeat as champions.
Game three of the Cybots versus Shockers semifinals series is slated for 7:30pm tonight at DW Davis. Game four is set for Friday and, if necessary, the fifth and deciding game will be played Saturday.
If the series doesn't go the distance, the championship series between the winner and the Giants could open as early as Saturday night.
Whenever it starts, Thompson said they will be ready

Courtesy of Tribune242


High Hopes For Bullard - by Eurobasket

SINCE dominating at St Bedes, then at Westminster College and now at Ridley College in Canada, Geno Bullard (180-G-92) Jr has matured into one of the most highly acclaimed junior basketball players in The Bahamas.
With his high school career coming to an end, Bullard is now being recognised by international scouts in the United States, a crucial step in elevating his game to an elite level.
The 18-year-old, 5 11 tall and 170 pound point guard received an invitation to the USA Junior National All-State Competition, one of the top competitions for prep basketball players in North America.
Scheduled for April 1, at the High Velocity Sports Complex in Canton, Michigan, the event is viewed as an entry level for athletes seeking to compete in national team events or receive further exposure for collegiate scouting.
Bullard will compete in the Michigan/Canada competition, recognised as one of the most outstanding players in his region.
As a versatile athlete, Bullard has track and field to fall back on if he doesn't achieve the success he so much in basketball.
He admitted in an interview with The Tribune earlier in the year that that he expects to excel in his first love basketball.
He just added some additional awards to his rsum this past season.
'Some people say I'm a combo guard, but I see myself as a true point guard,' said Bullard, who made it to the All-Star game between the top 10 players in the Niagara region when he was named as the co-MVP, I have been talking to at least 10 coaches, but I haven't decided on where I want to play yet, he said.
Bullard said he is still waiting on the results from his SAT scores to make that decision. 'I made a lot of progress, but I still have a lot of work to do.
The USA Junior Nationals summer teams will be formed from the series of events and will represent their states at the USA Junior Nationals International Sports Festival from July 16-22 in Columbus, Ohio.
After his final year at Westminster, Bullard visited Canada a few times with his father, four-time Bahamas Association of Independent Secondary Schools Sports (BAISS) champion with the Diplomats, Geno Bullard Sr.
When it came time to look at secondary school education, he checked out a number of schools in the United States before settling on Ridley.
'I always knew Geno's athletics will be there, but to be a great athlete, his academics have to be on key, said his father. So to be a better student-athlete, he has to be able to balance the two. This is his last year so he has to be in a better position to be able to put himself where any school that recruits him will be delighted in what he brings to the table.'

Courtesy of Tribune 242


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


Feni Industrija eliminates Mornar, completes Final Four picture - by Eurobasket News

Mornar Bar - Feni Industrija 82-83

Feni Industrija is the last team who booked a spot for the Balkan League Final Four. The defending BIBL champion eliminated Mornar Bar tonight after 82-83 road victory. Feni celebrated in Kavadarci in Game One winning the series with perfect 2-0. In the Semifinals, Feni will meet Levski. The Final Four tournament starts on April 21 and other pair is Galil Gilboa - Hapoel Tel Aviv. Feni Indistrija shot 62.0 percent from the field. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 24 assists. 25 personal fouls committed by Mornar Bar helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Serbian center Dusan Knezevic (207-C-80, agency: BeoExcell) scored 20 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists to lead the charge for the winners and Bulgarian swingman Ivan Lilov (196-F/G-88) chipped in 21 points and 5 assists (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) during the contest. Ivan Jelenic (190-SG-85, agency: BeoExcell) responded with 24 points and 6 assists and American forward Mike Singletary (198-F-88, college: Texas Tech) scored 14 points and 5 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. The Final Four Tournament will be held in Israeli city Gan Ner - Galil Gilboa's home court.

Feni Indistrija: I.Lilov 21+1reb+5ast, D.Knezevic 20+7reb+5ast, K.Nikolovski 13+4reb+1ast, J.Frye 13+4reb+7ast, D.Sokolov 7+3reb+1ast, D.Radulovic 3
Mornar Bar: I.Jelenic 24+6ast, M.Singletary 14+5reb+3ast, N.Ivanovic 13+2reb+3ast, L.Radosavljevic 11+4reb+1ast, M.Sarajlija 5+1ast, F.Barovic 4+9reb


*****************************************************
  BARBADOS   


Lakers win the title, beat Cavaliers in the Finals - by Eurobasket News

So much for basketballs big rivalry.

The Lakers-Cavs feud really didnt pan out either.

The leagues best point guard? Andre Lockhart (183-G-86, college: Queens, NC) put an end to the debate, and Mpact Station Hills knockout run, scoring a game-high 20 points while holding Corey Williams scoreless in the Lumber Company Lakers 89-75 title-game blowout at the Barbados Community College on Saturday, March 24.

It was the anticlimatic outcome of a final that promised so much built up as a rivalry game involving two heated adversaries contesting their fifth title-game in seven years.

And that paled in comparison to the storyline surrounding the even more hyped animosity between the two national guards.

In the end, both Lakers and Lockhart merely took advantage of a huge gap in talent.

Williams just never looked comfortable against his bigger counterpart, struggling to even get off shots while constantly being kept out of the painted area.

It proved a far cry from Lockharts performance, which started with an opening triple the third time in four games he opened Lakers scoring with a three and featured big shot after big shot.

None, though, were bigger than a back-breaking trey that essentially ended Station Hills fourth-quarter rally, or the triple that put a stop to Darren Huntes impressive highlight reel in the second.

At least one contest was fairly competitive.

For a while, any way.

Twice the Cavs fought back valiantly from menacing double digit deficits, reducing a 49-36 half-time hole to just two points (57-55), before rallying within six (68-62) midway through the fourth.

This was in a contest that quickly took on the intensity a playoff game after Station Hill answered every of their opponents threes with a basket in the paint in an early 14-13 Lakers lead.

But the cushion soon became 11 points (33-22) early in the second following series of jumpers from veteran forward Matthew Moore and free throws from reserves Mark Bridgeman and Jamar King.

Hunte swiftly laid waste to that lead though, hitting a thunderous two-handed put-back and huge trey before dunking again to pull the Cavs within two (33-31). However, Lockhart went on a personal run of his own, scoring the next five points as part of Lakers 16-5 run that closed the half.

Station Hill were at it again though, cutting Lakers lead to just two (57-55) after another surge from Hunte combined with Jamai Puckerin and Junior Moores dominance of the paint.

And a Cavaliers late-game rally loomed menacingly when Seon Hilliman started the fourth with a floater and assisted on successive baskets (68-62).

But Lockhart ended that run too, sinking a timely trey prior to five straight points from King and successive Bridgeman lay-ups that engineered a clinching 15-2 run (80-62).

Bridgeman finished with 14 points while King and Ricardo Jemmott added 12 apiece. For the Cavs, Hunte top-scored with 20, Puckerin had 15 and Moore scored 12 points.

Courtesy of http://www.nationnews.com


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

Standings - Premier League

Premier League Standings
 1. Minsk-2006 23-1
 2. Grodno-93 21-3
 3. Rubon 13-11
 4. Minsk-2006 II 9-15
 5. BGUIR-RTI 9-15
 6. SBK Osipovichi 9-15
 7. Sozh Gomel 0-24

Regular Season: Round 23

Apr. 3: BGUIR-RTI - SBK Osipovichi 71-83
Mar. 30: Sozh Gomel - Minsk-2006 69-110
Apr. 2: Minsk-2006 - Rubon 118-72
Mar. 30: Grodno-93 - Minsk-2006 II 108-73


Stats Leaders - Premier League

Points Per Game
 Ronaldas RUTKAUSKAS
  Minsk-.
  (203-F-92)
  Avg: 20.1
 1. Rutkauskas, Minsk.20.1 
 2. Sitnik, SBK O.16.7 
 3. Mishukov, SBK O.15.3 
 4. Ignatchik, Minsk-.14.7 
 5. Patupchyk, Sozh G.14.3 
 6. Knox, Minsk-200613.8 
 7. Sugoniako, BG.13.4 
 8. Yafremov, Grodn.12.6 
 9. Drobyshevski., Soz.12.5 
 10. Kojenets, Minsk.12.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Pavel BLIZNETS
  Sozh Gomel
  (205-C-94)
  Avg: 11.3
 1. Bliznets, Sozh Gom.11.3 
 2. Rutkauskas, Minsk.10.0 
 3. Zakhar, BG.9.1 
 4. Mishukov, SBK O.8.3 
 5. Krisevich, Minsk-.8.2 
 6. Drobyshevski., Soz.6.8 
 7. Ovsepian, Rubon6.6 
 8. Kojenets, Minsk.6.6 
 9. Knox, Minsk-20065.7 
 10. Yafremov, Grodn.5.5 
Assists Per Game
 Dzmitry KUZMIN
  Grodno-93
  (196-G-75)
  Avg: 5.1
 1. Kuzmin, Grodno-935.1 
 2. Charykau, SBK O.4.7 
 3. Akulich, Rubon4.6 
 4. Kudrautsau, Minsk.3.9 
 5. Papruha, BG.3.2 
 6. Ignatchik, Minsk-.2.8 
 7. Korzh, Grodno-932.8 
 8. Sitnik, SBK O.2.3 
 9. Vergun, Minsk-20062.0 
 10. Shestilovski., So.2.0 
Steals Per Game
 Siarhei CHARYKAU
  SBK O.
  (184-PG-82)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Charykau, SBK O.2.4 
 2. Zakhar, BG.2.3 
 3. Akulich, Rubon2.3 
 4. Ovsepian, Rubon2.1 
 5. Papruha, BG.2.1 
 6. Sitnik, SBK O.2.0 
 7. Sapegin, Rubon1.9 
 8. Malkov, Rubon1.8 
 9. Yafremov, Grodn.1.7 
 10. Patupchyk, Sozh1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Yury MISHUKOV
  SBK O.
  (205-C-85)
  Avg: 0
 1. Mishukov, SBK O.0.0 
 2. Minayeu, Minsk-20.0.0 
 3. Zakhar, BG.0.0 
 4. Mastou, Grodno-930.0 
 5. Yafremov, Grodn.0.0 
 6. Malyavko, Minsk-20.0.0 
 7. Vergun, Minsk-20060.0 
 8. Malkov, Rubon0.0 
 9. Vasilevich, Grodno.0.0 
 10. Malakhau, Minsk-2.0.0 


The End of the First Stage - by Eurobasket News

The First Stage in Premier League just ended.

Very significant was Grodno-93's (#2, 21-3) victory against 4th placed Minsk-2006 II (9-15) 108-73. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Minsk-2006 II, but they advanced to top four. The game without a history. Grodno-93 led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 54 of its points in the paint compared to Minsk-2006 II's 26. They outrebounded Minsk-2006 II 37-25 including a 29-17 advantage in defensive rebounds. Grodno-93 looked well-organized offensively handing out 25 assists. 26 personal fouls committed by Minsk-2006 II helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was a great evening for international guard Vyacheslau Korzh (196-86) who led his team to a victory scoring 13 points, 6 rebounds and 8 assists. Swingman Evgeni Ivanov (202-84) helped adding 16 points and 6 rebounds. Grodno-93's coach Andrei Vasileuka felt very confident that he used 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Lithuanian forward Ronaldas Rutkauskas (203-92) responded with 11 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. Grodno-93 have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain second place with 21-3 record having just two points less than leader Minsk-2006. Newly promoted Minsk-2006 II keeps the fourth position with 15 games lost. They share it with SBK Osipovichi and BGUIR-RTI.
Very significant was Minsk-2006's (#1, 23-1) victory against 3rd placed Rubon (13-11) 118-72. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Rubon. It was an exceptional evening for Lithuanian forward Justinas Sinica (203-85) who led the winners and scored 17 points and 6 rebounds. Aleh Kojenets accounted for 17 points and 8 rebounds. The former international guard Dmitri Akulich (192-86) came up with 10 points and 6 assists for Rubon in the defeat. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Minsk-2006 (23-1) have an impressive series of eleven victories in a row. Defending champion maintains first place. Rubon at the other side keeps the third position with 11 games lost.
Premier League top team - Minsk-2006 (23-1) had no problems winning another game on Friday. This time they crushed seventh ranked Sozh Gomel (0-24) 110-69. The best player for the winners was Aleh Kojenets who scored 19 points and 5 rebounds. Igor Drobyshevskiy produced 22 points and 9 rebounds for the hosts. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. The victory was the eleventh consecutive win for Minsk-2006. Defending champion maintains first place with 23-1 record. Sozh Gomel lost their eighteenth game in a row. They still closes the standings.

In the last game of round 23 SBK Osipovichi won against BGUIR-RTI on the opponent's court 83-71.
The most impressive stats of the last round was 30 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists by Siarhei Charykau of SBK Osipovichi.

BGUIR-RTI - SBK Osipovichi 71-83

There was a minor upset in Minsk where 4th placed BGUIR-RTI (9-15) was defeated by sixth ranked SBK Osipovichi (9-15) 83-71 on Tuesday. The game was mostly controlled by SBK Osipovichi. BGUIR-RTI managed to win second period 16-14. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. SBK Osipovichi dominated down low during the game scoring 56 of its points in the paint compared to BGUIR-RTI's 36. SBK Osipovichi forced 24 BGUIR-RTI turnovers. The best player for the winners was the former international point guard Siarhei Charykau (184-82, college: Yakima Valley CC) who scored 30 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists (on 10-of-13 shooting from the field). The former international center Yury Mishukov (205-85) chipped in a double-double by scoring 14 points and 13 rebounds. Forward Evgeniy Sugoniako (198-92) produced 29 points and 6 rebounds and swingman Genniadiy Zakhar (198-92) added 12 points and 7 rebounds respectively for the hosts. BGUIR-RTI's coach Siarhei Varyvodau rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. SBK Osipovichi moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Minsk-2006 II and BGUIR-RTI. BGUIR-RTI lost their third game in a row.
Top scorers:
BGUIR-RTI: E.Sugoniako 29+6reb+1ast, G.Zakhar 12+7reb+2ast, D.Azaare 8+7reb+1ast, A.Papruha 6+5reb+1ast, A.Hrumiantsau 4+2reb, A.Kuzmitski 4+4reb+1ast
SBK Osipovichi: S.Charykau 30+5reb+6ast, K.Sitnik 15+7reb, Y.Mishukov 14+13reb, S.Vabischevich 8+1reb+2ast, I.Dovnar 6+7reb+1ast, V.Skidan 4+4reb+2ast
gschID: 172545


Sozh Gomel - Minsk-2006 69-110

Premier League top team - Minsk-2006 (23-1) had no problems winning another game on Friday. This time they crushed seventh ranked Sozh Gomel (0-24) 110-69. The game without a history. Minsk-2006 led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Minsk-2006 forced 28 Sozh Gomel turnovers and outrebounded them 46-25 including a 18-6 advantage in offensive rebounds. The best player for the winners was the former international center Aleh Kojenets (208-77, college: NC-Wilmington, agency: New Trend Agency) who scored 19 points and 5 rebounds. The former international forward Aliaksei Lashkevich (204-78) chipped in 15 points and 8 rebounds. Five Minsk-2006 players scored in double figures. Center Igor Drobyshevskiy (206-93) produced 22 points and 9 rebounds and point guard Yahor Patupchyk (186-94) added 10 points respectively for the hosts. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. The victory was the eleventh consecutive win for Minsk-2006. Defending champion maintains first place with 23-1 record. Sozh Gomel lost their eighteenth game in a row. They still closes the standings.
Top scorers:
Sozh Gomel: I.Drobyshevskiy 22+9reb+1ast, N.Samusenko 11, Y.Patupchyk 10+4reb+2ast, P.Bliznets 7+5reb+1ast, D.Kasenkau 7+4reb, A.Shestilovskiy 6+1reb+2ast
Minsk-2006: A.Kojenets 19+5reb+1ast, J.Sinica 16+2reb, A.Lashkevich 15+8reb+2ast, J.Knox 13+2reb+3ast, A.Fomin 12+4reb+1ast, U.Charko 11+5reb
gschID: 172542


Grodno-93 - Minsk-2006 II 108-73

Very significant was Grodno-93's (#2, 21-3) victory against 4th placed Minsk-2006 II (9-15) 108-73. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Minsk-2006 II. The game without a history. Grodno-93 led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 54 of its points in the paint compared to Minsk-2006 II's 26. They outrebounded Minsk-2006 II 37-25 including a 29-17 advantage in defensive rebounds. Grodno-93 looked well-organized offensively handing out 25 assists. 26 personal fouls committed by Minsk-2006 II helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was a great evening for international guard Vyacheslau Korzh (196-86) who led his team to a victory scoring 13 points, 6 rebounds and 8 assists. Swingman Evgeni Ivanov (202-84) helped adding 16 points and 6 rebounds. Grodno-93's coach Andrei Vasileuka felt very confident that he used 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Lithuanian forward Ronaldas Rutkauskas (203-92) responded with 11 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists and center Vladimir Krisevich (210) scored 10 points and 8 rebounds. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. Grodno-93 have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain second place with 21-3 record having just two points less than leader Minsk-2006. Newly promoted Minsk-2006 II keeps the fourth position with 15 games lost. They share it with SBK Osipovichi and BGUIR-RTI.
Top scorers:
Minsk-2006 II: V.Nakic 14+1reb+4ast, M.Shustau 13+2reb+3ast, Y.Kurapau 12+2reb, R.Rutkauskas 11+6reb+5ast, V.Krisevich 10+8reb+1ast, L.Malakhau 7
Grodno-93: V.Matyukevych 19+4reb, E.Ivanov 16+6reb+3ast, I.Konuyshenko 15+2reb, S.Ovdeenko 13+4reb, V.Korzh 13+6reb+8ast, A.Mastou 10+4reb+2ast
gschID: 172543


Minsk-2006 - Rubon 118-72

Very significant was Minsk-2006's (#1, 23-1) victory against 3rd placed Rubon (13-11) 118-72. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Rubon. The game without a history. Minsk-2006 led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 66 of its points in the paint compared to Rubon's 34. They outrebounded Rubon 49-26 including a 40-19 advantage in defensive rebounds. Minsk-2006 players were unselfish on offense dishing 30 assists comparing to just 12 passes made by Rubon's players. It was an exceptional evening for Lithuanian forward Justinas Sinica (203-85) who led the winners and scored 17 points and 6 rebounds. The former international center Aleh Kojenets (208-77, college: NC-Wilmington, agency: New Trend Agency) accounted for 17 points and 8 rebounds for the winning side. The former international guard Dmitri Akulich (192-86) came up with 10 points and 6 assists and forward Dmitri Shilovich (200-89) added 12 points and 7 rebounds respectively for Rubon in the defeat. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Minsk-2006 (23-1) have an impressive series of eleven victories in a row. Defending champion maintains first place. Rubon at the other side keeps the third position with 11 games lost.
Top scorers:
Rubon: S.Sapegin 14+3ast, D.Shilovich 12+7reb, A.Malkov 12+1reb+1ast, V.Ovsepian 11+1reb, D.Akulich 10+4reb+6ast, A.Kachan 10+5reb+1ast
Minsk-2006: J.Knox 19+5reb+1ast, U.Charko 18+4reb+3ast, A.Kojenets 17+8reb, J.Sinica 17+6reb+2ast, A.Lashkevich 14+8reb+1ast, A.Fomin 10+6reb
gschID: 172544



*****************************************************
  BERMUDAS   

Standings PBL

BBA Standings
 1. Pros 5-1
 2. Bluebirds 4-2
 3. Scanners 3-3
 4. Hurricanes 3-3
 5. Storm 2-4
 6. Legends 1-5


Phillips and Prievidza go down - by Eurobasket News

Nitra overcame Sullivan Phillips (198-G/F-79, agency: Interperformances, college: Wash.Adventist) and his Prievidza teammates to tie the Slovakian National Men's Basketball Play-Off Semi-Final series at 1-1.

Nitra playing at home trailed by 6 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 1-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 79-72.

Phillips struggled form the field in this game. Phillips went 4-for-8 from the Field, 0-for-3 from behind the Three Point Line and 1-for-2 from the Free Throw Line for his 9 points on the night in 31 minutes of action.

Phillips grabbed 7 Rebounds, he had 3 Assist, 2 Steals and 2 Blocked Shots in the game.

Courtesy of www.islandstats.com


BBA: Latest results and standings, Pros are No.1 with 5-1 record - by Eurobasket News

Six rounds of the BBA championship are already played. Pros holds the first place with almost perfect 5-1 record.

ROUND 1
March 4, 2012 Sandys 360
Bluebirds Pros 57 - 63

March 4, 2012 Sandys 360
Storm Scanners 75 - 65


ROUND 2
March 10, 2012 Sandys 360
Scanners Pros 0 - 2

March 10, 2012 12:30 am Sandys 360
Legends Hurricanes 29 - 45

March 10, 2012 12:30 am Sandys 360
Legends Bluebirds 36 - 72

March 10, 2012 12:30 am Sandys 360
Hurricanes Storm 59 - 55


ROUND 3
March 11, 2012 Sandys 360
Bluebirds Scanners 2 - 0

March 11, 2012 Sandys 360
Pros Hurricanes 51 - 41

March 11, 2012 12:30 am Sandys 360
Storm Legends 64 - 45


ROUND 4
March 17, 2012 6:30 pm Somersfield Academy
Storm Bluebirds 64 - 95

March 17, 2012 8:00 pm Somersfield Academy
Legends Pros 58 - 49

March 17, 2012 9:30 pm Somersfield Academy
Hurricanes Scanners 47 - 56


ROUND 5
March 18, 2012 Somersfield Academy
Bluebirds Hurricanes 61 - 46

March 18, 2012 Somersfield Academy
Pros Storm 60 - 45

March 18, 2012 Somersfield Academy
Scanners Legends 63 - 56


ROUND 6
March 24, 2012 Somersfield Academy
Pros Bluebirds 65 - 55

March 24, 2012 Somersfield Academy
Hurricanes Legends 61 - 44

March 24, 2012 Somersfield Academy
Scanners Storm 59 - 56


Standings
1. Pros 5-1
2. Bluebirds 4-2
3. Scanners 3-3
4. Hurricanes 3-3
5. Storm 2-4
6. Legends 1-5


*****************************************************
  BOSNIA   

Standings - BIH League

D1 Standings
League 6
 1. Igokea 4-0 
 2. Siroki WWin 4-0 
 3. Bosna 1-2 
 4. Mladost 1-2 
 5. Varda HE 1-3 
 6. Capljina 0-4 
Places 7-14
 1. Leotar 14-10 
 2. Servitium 10-14 
 3. Hercegovac 10-14 
 4. Borac Nektar 8-16 
 5. Zrinjski HT 8-16 
 6. Vogosca 8-16 
 7. Brotnjo 7-17 
 8. Celik 5-19 
Stage One Standings

Second Stage: Round 4

Apr. 3: Igokea - Capljina 95-73
Apr. 3: Varda HE - Siroki WWin 58-78
Apr. 4: Mladost - Bosna



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


Le Mans sign Brasilian for another season - by Mel Devonne

French league powerhouse Le Mans recently announced that they have re-signed Joao Paulo Batista (207-F/C-81, college: Gonzaga) of Brasil to
another French Pro-A season. The 6-10 Brasilian has been a solid player for Le Mans, averaging 12ppg and 5 rb in 2010-11
and is currently a starter for the Le Mans who is currently 16-8.
In the last Le Mans game Batista scored 14 points and had 5 rebounds in a 83-69 win vs Strasbourg.
Batista has also played in Lithuania and Latvia and is a good import pro in his professional career.



*****************************************************
  BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS   


BVI Tigers roar in St Thomas! - by David Edole

ROAD TOWN, Tortola, VI-- The Tigers returned home on the evening of Sunday April 1, 2012 not only with beaming smiles, but also the Championship Trophy from the 2012 Bertha C. Boschulte Middle School Junior Varsity Tournament which was held in St. Thomas, United States Virgin Islands.

March Madness VI style lived up to every expectation over the weekend as teams from St Croix, St Thomas and the select BVI Tigers battled it out for bragging rights and Championship glory.

The BVI Tigers rallied from a nine-point halftime deficit to pull out a come from behind victory over Eudora Kean High School, 43-42.

Kimron Telemaque was named Most Outstanding Player after scoring 14 points in the final.

However, as Manager Sharlene Hill commented, all the guys did really well.
Glendale Lane did a fantastic job, Liburd turned up big time, Terrique Wattle bounced back from a damaged foot to lead the front. They all stepped up when we needed them and we pulled out the win, she continued.

The Tigers went all court press in the final seconds to secure the victory.
It was a little tense, but we came back up and in the last couple of seconds I got the important rebound, said Romain Minott.

We were down, went man for man, it was great coaching from Wattley and Simmonds. Offense win games but defense wins championships, said JMoi Liburd.

Tahj Malone was more philosophical. I had a prayer the night before the final, he said. We were down, but, you know what, we had to win this game to make the BVI proud.

If the final itself was a nerve jangling finale then the Tigers must have been a bag of nerves after the first game and Coach Maurice Wattley agreed that was certainly the case and admitted that just getting to the championship game epitomized the fighting spirit instilled within the team.

We are feeling great, the guys had a game plan, but we were down and soon had to resort to plan B. We kept our composure and slowly crept back into the game to win.

On Friday March 30, 2012, the Tigers had lost by 3 points to Central High School (31-28) and on Saturday March 31, they had to win by more than four points against Cancryn High School to progress.

We got the lead and kept it to win by six, 37-31, stated Wattley.

The semi final was an equally close affair, with the Tigers beating Woodson 27-24.
Wattley wouldnt single out anyone for special mention, instead praising all the players, but Terrique was injured for the first game. He decided he had to play in the important Saturday game and all the players contributed to the victory.

The players would have learnt from the experience and Wattley went on to thank the coaching staff, the manager and the parents who came to support either in person or via telephone updates on the scores.


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


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

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

Kaloyan Ivanov
Kaloyan Ivanov
   #1. This week's number one is an international forward Kaloyan Ivanov (205-86). He led Meridiano Alicante to a 1-point victory over the third-ranked Caja Laboral (19-8) 72-71 in the Spanish ACB in Sunday night's game. Ivanov was MVP of the game. He scored 22 points and grabbed 6 rebounds in 30 minutes on the court. Lucentum Alicante (15-12) is placed seventh in the ACB. Ivanov is ranked third on the list of the best rebounders in the league with 7.7rpg. He also averaged so far 12.8ppg, 1.5apg, 2FGP: 48.6%, 3FGP: 32.3% and FT: 73.9% in the 26 games he played so far. Ivanov is currently a member of the Bulgarian senior national team.

Ilian Evtimov
Ilian Evtimov
   #2. Second place goes to an international forward Ilian Evtimov (201-83, agency: Interperformances, college: N.Carolina St.). He led Chalon/Saor to a victory against the sixth-ranked Paris-Levallois (15-9) 83-77 in the French ProA last Tuesday. Evtimov scored 15 points, had 6 rebounds and dished 3 assists. ES Chalon-Sur-Saone (20-4) is placed second in the ProA. This season Evtimov averages: 9.3ppg, 3.7rpg, 1.9apg, 1.2spg, 2FGP: 44.4%, 3FGP: 40.4% and FT: 93.3%(28-30). He has a dual citizenship: Bulgarian and French. Despite Evtimov played previously for the French national team, he is currently a member of the Bulgarian senior national team.

Jared Homan
Jared Homan
   #3. The Bulgarian player who performed third best last week abroad was former international center Jared Homan (206-83, college: Iowa St.), who plays in the German BBL. Homan could not help Bayern Muenchen (17-12) in their last game. Despite his very good performance Bayern Muenchen was crushed 73-52 on the road by the second-ranked ALBA Berlin. Homan had a double-double by scoring 18 points and getting 11 rebounds in 34 minutes. They ended the series of five consecutive victories. Homan is ranked fourth on the list of the best rebounders in the league with 7.8rpg. This year his other stats are: 13.7ppg, 2.0apg, 1.2bpg, 2FGP: 47.6% and FT: 51.3% in the 20 games. Homan is a naturalized American. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Homan played also for the Bulgarian national team in 2010. Strangely he has never played in Bulgaria.

Pero Antic
Pero Antic
   #4. Forward Pero Antic (210-82, agency: Beo Basket) contributed to an easy victory against the leader Montepaschi Siena (4-2) crushing them 75-55 in the Euroleague in Wednesday night's game. Antic scored 6 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. It was the game of the round between two top 2 ranked teams in group E. Olympiakos S.F.P. Pireus (3-3) is placed second. Antic's overall stats this season are: 7.4ppg and 4.5rpg. He is another player who holds two passports: FYR Macedonian and Bulgarian. Despite Antic played previously for the FYR Macedonian national team, he is currently in the Bulgarian national team roster.

Ivan Lilov
Ivan Lilov
   #5. International swingman Ivan Lilov (196-88) led his FYR Macedonian team Feni Indistrija to an overtime victory over the second-ranked Mornar Bar (6-4) 92-85 in the Balkan League last Wednesday. Lilov was the best player in that game. He recorded 25 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists (made all of his nine free throws !!!) in 40 minutes. Feni Indistrija Kavadarci (5-5) is placed fourth in group B. It was his team's first victory after three consecutive loses. Lilov is currently first on the league's list of top scorers with 18.4ppg. This year he also averages: 3.6rpg, 2.6apg and 1.3spg in the seven games. Despite Lilov played previously for the FYR Macedonian national team, he is currently in the Bulgarian national team roster.

Roderick Blakney
Roderick Blakney
   #6. An experienced guard Roderick Blakney (184-76, college: S.Carolina St.), who plays in the Russian PBL was not able to help Lokomotiv (9-7) in their last game on Monday. Despite Blakney's good performance Lokomotiv was defeated 96-87 in Krasnoyarsk by the one of league's weakest teams Enisey (#9). He scored 10 points. There are only two games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. It's Blakney's first season with the team. Blakney's overall stats this year are: 6.8ppg, 1.2rpg and 1.4apg. He is a naturalized American. Despite Blakney played previously for the USA national team, he is also a former international player as he played for the Bulgarian senior team five years ago. Apparently Blakney has never played in Bulgaria.

Dejan Ivanov
Dejan Ivanov
   #7. International power forward Dejan Ivanov (205-86, also represented by Beo Basket) contributed to an overtime Fabi Shoes Montegranaro's victory against the sixth-ranked Scavolini Pesaro (15-10) 79-77 in the Italian SerieA in Sunday night's game. He had a double-double by scoring 14 points and getting 12 rebounds. Ivanov also added and 3 steals in 36 minutes. Fabi Shoes Montegranaro (11-14) is placed 11th in the SerieA. Ivanov is currently third on the league's list of best rebounders with 7.8rpg. He also averaged so far 12.7ppg, 1.3apg and 1.3spg in the 25 games. Despite Ivanov played previously for the USA national team, he is currently in the Bulgarian national team roster.

Earl Calloway
Earl Calloway
   #8. Guard Earl Calloway (191-83, college: Indiana) contributed to Cajasol's victory against one of league's weakest teams Asefa Estudiantes (7-19) 77-64 in the Spanish ACB last Sunday. Calloway scored 12 points, had 5 rebounds and dished 5 assists. Cajasol Banca Civica Sevilla (14-13) is placed eighth in the ACB. Calloway's overall stats this season are: 7.7ppg, 2.2rpg, 2.9apg and 1.3spg. He is a naturalized American. Despite Calloway played previously for the USA national team, he is currently in the Bulgarian national team roster. Interesting that Calloway has never played in Bulgaria.

Hristo Nikolov
Hristo Nikolov
   #9. Former international forward Hristo Nikolov (200-85, agency: Global Sports Plaza) contributed to Szolnok's victory against the closely-ranked Kormend (18-7) 83-77 in the Hungarian A Division on Saturday night. He recorded 13 points and blocked 2 blocks in 27 minutes. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. Szolnoki Olajbanyasz (21-4) is placed second in the A Division. It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row. They will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And now that game is very crucial. Nikolov has relatively good stats this year: 13.7ppg, 5.1rpg, 2.0apg and 1.4spg in the 25 games. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Nikolov is currently in the Bulgarian national team roster.

Earl Rowland
Earl Rowland
   #10. Guard Earl Rowland (188-83, college: St.Mary's, CA) was not able to secure a victory for Unicaja Malaga (14-13) in their game against Real Madrid (21-6) in the Spanish ACB. He scored 7 points. Unicaja Malaga was defeated 64-51 in Madrid by the second-ranked Real. Rowland's overall stats this season are: 5.7ppg, 2.2rpg and 2.5apg. He is a naturalized American. Despite Rowland played previously for the USA national team, he is also an international player who is currently on the senior Bulgarian National Team roster. However Rowland has never played in Bulgaria.

   #11. International point guard Kee Kee Clark (180-84, college: St.Peter's) couldn't help one of league's weakest teams Umana Venezia in their game against Armani Milano in the Italian SerieA. He scored 8 points in 22 minutes. His team lost 70-79. Clark has individually a very good year with high stats. He averages: 15.4ppg, 2.2rpg, 2.7apg and 1.4spg in the 25 games. Clark is a naturalized American. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Clark is currently in the Bulgarian national team roster.

   #12. International guard Dimitar Karadzovski (190-84, another player represented by Global Sports Plaza), who plays in the FYR Macedonian Superleague couldn't help Torus Skopje (15-11) in their last game on Saturday. Despite Karadzovski's very good performance Torus Skopje was defeated 65-60 in a derby game by the leading MZT Skopje. He was the top scorer with 15 points. Karadzovski also added 7 rebounds. Karadzovski is currently sixth on the list of top scorers and also on the list of best passers (third place). This season he has very high stats. Karadzovski averages: 16.4ppg, 3.5rpg, 3.6apg and 1.1spg. Despite he played previously for the FYR Macedonian national team, Karadzovski is currently in the Bulgarian national team roster.

   #13. International swingman Filip Videnov (196-80, another player represented by Interperformances, college: W.Kentucky) couldn't help Olin Edirne in their game against Fenerbahce Ulker in the Turkish TBL. He recorded 8 points in 28 minutes. His team was crushed by 33 points 81-48. This year Videnov has relatively solid stats: 14.1ppg, 3.2rpg and 2.8apg in the 18 games. Despite he played previously for the FYR Macedonian national team, Videnov is currently in the Bulgarian national team roster.

   #14. Former international swingman Simeon Naydenov (201-81, another player represented by Global Sports Plaza, college: Louisville), who plays in the French NM1 (third division) couldn't help Stade Clermont (8-20) in their last game on Friday. Despite his very good performance Stade Clermont was defeated in an overtime 83-78 in Angers by the higher-ranked BC 49 (#11). Naydenov was the top scorer with 15 points. He has reliable stats this season: 14.6ppg and 2.5rpg. Despite Naydenov played previously for the FYR Macedonian national team, he is currently in the Bulgarian national team roster.

   #15. Former international point guard Willie Deane (188-80, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: Purdue) faced previously mentioned Earl Calloway in the Spanish ACB last game. Deane couldn't help Asefa Estudiantes in their game against Cajasol. He cannot count Sunday's game as one of the best ones. Deane scored only 2 points in 15 minutes. His team lost 64-77. This year Deane's overall stats are: 7.8ppg, 1.4rpg, 3.0apg and 1.2spg in the five games. He is a naturalized American. Deane used to play for the Bulgarian national team eight years ago. He played also for PBC Lukoil Akademik Sophia in Bulgarian league.


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


Luc Mbah a Moute selected the top Cameroonian playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

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

Luc Mbah a Moute
Luc Mbah a Moute
   #1. This week's number one is an international swingman Luc Mbah a Moute (200-86, college: UCLA). He led Milwaukee Bucks to a victory against the Atlanta Hawks (31-23) 108-101 in the NBA in Tuesday night's game. Mbah a Moute scored 12 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in 33 minutes on the court. The Milwaukee Bucks have 25-28 record this season. It's Mbah a Moute's fourth year with the team. He has relatively good stats this year: 7.5ppg, 5.2rpg, 2FGP: 51.7% and FT: 67.8% in the 36 games he played so far. Mbah a Moute is currently a member of the Cameroonian senior national team.

Victor Samnick
Victor Samnick
   #2. Second place goes to an experienced international forward Victor Samnick (203-79, college: Georgetown). He contributed to a Sluc Nancy's victory against the ninth-ranked Cholet (11-13) 78-72 in the French ProA last Saturday. Samnick scored 12 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. Sluc Nancy Basket Pro (16-8) is placed fourth in the ProA. This season Samnick averages: 9.7ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.2apg, 2FGP: 54.9%, 3FGP: 39.1% and FT: 64.4%. He has a dual citizenship: Cameroonian and French. Despite Samnick played previously for the French national team, he is currently a member of the Cameroonian senior national team.

Alfred Aboya
Alfred Aboya
   #3. The Cameroonian player who performed third best last week abroad was an international power forward Alfred Aboya (206-85, college: UCLA). Aboya helped Final Genclik win their game against the 14th-ranked Pamukkale (12-21) 92-83 in the Turkish TB2L (second division) on Saturday night. He recorded 14 points and grabbed 6 rebounds in 25 minutes; quite an impressive performance considering it's only Aboya's third season in pro basketball. Final Spor Genclik Bursa (22-11) is placed sixth in the TB2L. Aboya has individually a very good year with high stats. He averages: 15.3ppg, 11.1rpg, 1.4bpg, 2FGP: 48.1% and FT: 70.7% in the seven games. Despite Aboya played previously for the French national team, he is currently a member of the Cameroonian senior national team.

Joachim Ekanga-Ehawa
Joachim Ekanga-Ehawa
   #4. Shooting guard Joachim Ekanga-Ehawa (188-77) helped Aix-Maurienne win their n overtime game against the eighth-ranked Bordeaux (15-13) 116-108 in the French ProB (second division) in Friday night's game. Ekanga-Ehawa recorded 15 points. Aix-Maurienne Savoie Basket (18-10) is placed fourth in the ProB. This season Ekanga-Ehawa has relatively solid stats: 12.8ppg, 3.3rpg and 2.2apg. He is another player who holds two passports: Cameroonian and French. Despite Ekanga-Ehawa played previously for the French national team, he is currently in the Cameroonian national team roster.

Talba Toudjani
Talba Toudjani
   #5. International forward Talba Toudjani (201-80) led Energy Invest to a victory over the eighth-ranked TSU (6-12) 78-74 in the Georgian Superleague last Saturday. Toudjani was MVP of the game. He had a double-double by scoring 19 points and getting 16 rebounds. Toudjani also added 6 assists in 33 minutes. Energy Invest Rustavi (0-0) is placed in the Superleague. There are only two games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. Toudjani has reliable stats this year: 12.0ppg, 11.6rpg and 3.3apg in the seven games. Despite he played previously for the French national team, Toudjani is currently in the Cameroonian national team roster.

Saidou Njoya
Saidou Njoya
   #6. Point guard Saidou Njoya (186-89), who plays in the French ProB (second division) could not help Boulazac Basket (21-7) to beat Chalons-Reims (19-9). He recorded 5 points and grabbed 4 rebounds. Boulazac Basket was crushed 90-69 on the road by the lower-ranked Chalons-Reims (#3). It's Njoya's first season with the team. Njoya's overall stats this year are: 8.0ppg, 2.5rpg and 3.7apg. He is an international player who is currently on the senior Cameroonian National Team roster.

Brice Vounang
Brice Vounang
   #7. International power forward Brice Vounang (202-82, college: San Diego) managed to help Etendard de Brest in a victory against one of league's weakest teams Le Puy ASMB (4-24) 76-68 in the French NM1 (third division) in Saturday night's game. Vounang recorded 5 points and grabbed 10 rebounds in 25 minutes. Etendard de Brest (15-13) is placed ninth in the NM1. Vounang averaged so far 10.7ppg, 6.9rpg and 1.3apg in the 23 games. He is also Cameroonian national team player.

Gaston Moliva
Gaston Moliva
   #8. Forward Gaston Moliva (202-85, college: Richmond) helped Chiba Jets edge the ninth-ranked Iwate Big Bulls (14-32) 83-82 in the Japanese BJ League last Friday. Moliva recorded only 4 points, 5 rebounds and 3 blocks. Chiba Jets (16-28) are placed eighth in Eastern group. Moliva's overall stats this season are: 4.8ppg, 5.4rpg and 1.4bpg. He plays currently for the Cameroonian national team.

Yves Mekongo
Yves Mekongo
   #9. International forward Yves Mekongo (201-87, agency: Dynamics Global Management, college: La Salle), who plays in the Luxembourg Diekirch League was not able to help Amicale (10-13) in their last game. Despite his very good performance the first-placed Amicale lost 71-78 at home to the leading T71 in the 1-6 places group. Mekongo had a double-double by scoring 15 points and getting 11 rebounds in 35 minutes; not bad, considering it's only his second season in pro basketball. There are only three games left until the end of the Second Stage. So now every game is very crucial. Mekongo has very impressive stats this year: 20.0ppg, 12.0rpg and 1.8apg in the eight games. Worth to mention Mekongo played also at Eurobasket Summer League, which helped him get the job in pro basketball. Despite he played previously for the French national team, Mekongo is currently in the Cameroonian national team roster.

Michel Ipouck
Michel Ipouck
   #10. Forward Michel Ipouck (199-86) was not able to secure a victory for one of league's weakest teams Chartres (11-17) in their game against Rueil (12-16) in the French NM1 (third division). He cannot count Saturday's game as one of the best ones. Ipouck recorded only 3 points. Chartres was defeated 76-66 on their home court in Chartres by the higher-ranked Rueil (#13). Ipouck's overall stats this season are: 6.1ppg, 4.7rpg, 1.5apg and 1.3spg. He is an international player who is currently on the senior Cameroonian National Team roster.


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


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

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

Steve Nash
Steve Nash
   #1. This week's number one is an experienced former international point guard Steve Nash (190-74, college: Santa Clara), who plays in the NBA. He could not help the Phoenix Suns (26-26) in their last game. Despite Nash's very good performance the Phoenix Suns lost 100-107 at home to the San Antonio Spurs. He scored 16 points, had 5 rebounds and dished 8 assists in 34 minutes on the court. It's Nash's eighth season with the team. Nash has individually a very good year with high stats. He averages: 12.7ppg, 3.0rpg, 11.3apg, 2FGP: 58.5%(193-330), 3FGP: 38.9% and FT: 88.1% in the 48 games he played so far. Nash played for the Canadian senior national team nine years ago.

Tristan Thompson
Tristan Thompson
   #2. Second place goes to former U19 international forward Tristan Thompson (203-91, college: Texas), who plays in the NBA. He was not able to help the Cleveland Cavaliers (17-33) in their last game on Friday. Despite Thompson's very good performance the Cleveland Cavaliers were crushed 121-84 on the road by the Milwaukee Bucks. He recorded a double-double by scoring 15 points and getting 11 rebounds. Thompson has relatively good stats this season: 7.7ppg, 6.1rpg, 1.1bpg, 2FGP: 43.4% and FT: 52.8%. He played for the Canadian U19 national team in 2009.

Kyle Landry
Kyle Landry
   #3. The Canadian player who performed third best last week abroad was former international power forward Kyle Landry (207-86, college: N.Arizona). Landry led Triumph Lyubertsy to an overtime victory against the closely-ranked Krasnie Krilya (7-8) 96-91 in the Russian PBL on Wednesday night. He had a double-double by scoring 12 points and getting 10 rebounds in 35 minutes. Triumph Lyubertsy (8-5) is placed fourth in the PBL. There are only four games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. Landry is ranked fourth on the list of the best rebounders in the league with 6.8rpg. This year his other stats are: 9.8ppg, 1.9apg, 1.1spg, 2FGP: 41.5%, 3FGP: 34.5% and FT: 63.3% in the 12 games. Landry played for the Canadian national team three years ago.

Matt Bonner
Matt Bonner
   #4. Forward Matt Bonner (206-80, college: Florida) faced previously mentioned Steve Nash in the NBA last game. Bonner contributed to a San Antonio Spurs' victory against the Phoenix Suns (26-26) 107-100. He scored 10 points and grabbed 5 rebounds. Bonner is one of the most experienced players in a team as it's his sixth year in Spurs' roster. This season Bonner has relatively solid stats: 7.3ppg and 3.5rpg. He is a naturalized American. Despite Bonner played previously for the USA national team, he is currently in the Canadian national team roster.

Jacob Doerksen
Jacob Doerksen
   #5. Former University international forward Jacob Doerksen (200-87, agency: Interperformances) led Hannover Tigers to a victory over the fifth-ranked SG Schwelmer Baskets (15-9) crushing them 96-75 in the German ProB (third division) last Tuesday. Doerksen was MVP of the game. He had a double-double by scoring 32 points and getting 11 rebounds. Doerksen also added 3 assists and 5 steals in 30 minutes. UBC Hannover Tigers (19-5) is placed first in Group North. Doerksen is ranked second on the list of the top scorers in the league with 22.5ppg. This year he also averages: 7.8rpg, 1.2apg and 2.0spg in the 31 games. Despite Doerksen played previously for the USA national team, he is currently in the Canadian university national team roster.

Jermaine Anderson
Jermaine Anderson
   #6. Guard Jermaine Anderson (188-83, college: Fordham), who plays in Montenegro was not able to secure a victory for Buducnost (3-3) in their last game on Tuesday. Despite Anderson's good performance the second-placed Buducnost was crushed 85-63 in Valencia by the leading Basket in the group K of Eurocup. He was the second best scorer with 13 points. Anderson also added 5 passes. It's Anderson's first season with the team. He has reliable stats this year: 10.4ppg, 2.7rpg and 3.0apg. Despite Anderson played previously for the USA national team, he is also an international player who is currently on the senior Canadian National Team roster.

Garry Gallimore
Garry Gallimore
   #7. Former University international guard Garry Gallimore (192-84) was the main contributor in a CSM Bucuresti's victory against the tenth-ranked CSU Sibiu (13-14) 95-83 in the Romanian Division A in Saturday night's game. Gallimore was the best player in that game. He scored 27 points (!!!) and grabbed 4 rebounds in 37 minutes. CS Municipal Bucuresti (19-8) is placed sixth in the Division A. It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row. They will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And now that game is very crucial. Gallimore is ranked seventh on the list of the top scorers in the league with 18.1ppg. He also averaged so far 4.1rpg, 2.2apg and 1.3spg in the 28 games. Despite Gallimore played previously for the Jamaican national team, he is currently in the Canadian university national team roster.

Levon Kendall
Levon Kendall
   #8. Forward Levon Kendall (209-84, college: Pittsburgh) helped Blusens Monbus win their game against the closely-ranked Baloncesto Fuenlabrada (10-16) 82-63 in the Spanish ACB last Saturday. Kendall was the top player that evening. He scored 17 points, had 4 rebounds and dished 3 assists. Blusens Monbus Obradoiro CAB (10-17) is placed 15th in the ACB. Kendall's overall stats this season are: 8.8ppg and 5.8rpg. Despite he played previously for the Irish national team, Kendall is currently in the Canadian national team roster.

Samuel Dalembert
Samuel Dalembert
   #9. Former international center Samuel Dalembert (211-81, college: Seton Hall) couldn't help the Houston Rockets (29-25) in their game against the Indiana Pacers (31-21) in the NBA. He scored only 4 points and grabbed 6 rebounds in 12 minutes. The Houston Rockets were edged in an overtime 104-102 in Indianapolis by the Indiana Pacers. Dalembert's stats this year are: 8.0ppg, 7.3rpg and 1.8bpg in the 54 games. He used to play for the Canadian national team four years ago.

Joel Anthony
Joel Anthony
   #10. Center Joel Anthony (206-82, college: UNLV) managed to help Miami Heat to win against the Dallas Mavericks (30-24) crushing them 106-85 in the NBA in Thursday night's game. Anthony scored only 4 points. The Miami Heat has a solid 37-14 record this season. Anthony has been at the team for four years. His overall stats this year are: 3.1ppg, 4.1rpg and 1.3bpg. Anthony is an international player who is currently on the senior Canadian National Team roster.

   #11. Former international forward Philip Martin (202-80, college: Hawaii) helped Sigma Barcellona win their game against the closely-ranked Tuscany Pistoia 95-76 in the Italian Lega2 (second division) last Sunday. He scored 19 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in 27 minutes. This year Martin's overall stats are: 8.2ppg, 4.5rpg and 1.4spg in the 25 games. Despite he played previously for the Italian national team, Martin is currently in the Canadian national team roster.

   #12. Former international guard Tyler Kepkay (183-87, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Utah), who plays in the German ProA (second division) couldn't help Science City Jena (14-14) in their last game on Saturday. Despite his very good performance Science City Jena was edged 69-67 in Duesseldorf by the higher-ranked Gloria Giants (#6). Kepkay was the top scorer with 24 points. He also added 4 rebounds and dished 6 assists. This season Kepkay has very high stats. He averages: 15.6ppg, 2.6rpg, 3.4apg and 1.1spg. Despite Kepkay played previously for the Italian national team, he is currently in the Canadian national team roster.

   #13. Former international guard Stephen Janzen (191-82) is a teammate of previously mentioned Jacob Doerksen. But that was another game of his team in German ProB which we would like to mention. Janzen helped Hannover Tigers win their game against the third-ranked SC Rasta Vechta 74-65. He was the top player that evening. Janzen recorded 24 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in 37 minutes. He averaged so far 14.6ppg, 3.0rpg and 1.8apg in the 31 games. Despite Janzen played previously for the German national team, he is currently in the Canadian national team roster.

   #14. Former international power forward Jamaal Magloire (208-78, college: Kentucky) couldn't help the Toronto Raptors in their game against the Orlando Magic in the NBA. Magloire cannot count Monday's game as one of the best ones. He scored only 3 points and grabbed 7 rebounds. His team were badly defeated by 16 points 117-101 in the NBA. Magloire's total stats this season are: 1.4ppg and 3.4rpg. He used to play for the Canadian national team back in 2009.

   #15. Former international guard Omar El Turk (188-81, college: Dawson Coll.) helped Al Riyadi win their game against the closely-ranked Sagesse 89-81 in a derby game in the Lebanese Division A on Wednesday night. El Turk scored 9 points in 34 minutes. This year his total stats are: 7.6ppg, 1.8rpg and 2.1apg in the 21 games. Despite El Turk played previously for the Lebanese national team, he is currently in the Canadian national team roster.


*****************************************************
  CBL   


Raleigh RoughRiders tryout date and information - by Bruno Baltazar

The Raleigh RoughRiders will have their tryout on April 7th and they invite everybody that wants to tryout for them to join them,here is the information.
REGISTRATION GUIDELINES:

All participants are required to pre-register (using this Registration Form) however they are NOT required to pay to register. You are required to pay to participate in the tryout camp!

PRE-PAYMENT: $80. Pay online before April 3rd, 2012 and save $20.00.

SAME DAY PAYMENT: $100. Tryout fee can be paid on the date of the tryout beginning at 4:00 p.m.. Money Orders Only! Make money orders out to: Summit Entertainment and Sports Group LLC (SESG) NO CHECKS! NO CASH! NO DEBIT CARDS! Pay now online and the cost for the tryout is ONLY $80!!!!!!

$80.00 Pay online now for tryout camp discount of 20%. I am registered for the Raleigh RoughRiders Tryout Camp and will pay online now. Save $20 off the regular fee. Pre-registration deadline is March 20th, 2012,$100.00 Cost for Tryout Camp on April 7th. I am registering for the Raleigh RoughRider however I am not ready to pay today. I will pay on the day of the camp beginning 4:00 p.m.

Here is the link http://www.raleighroughriders.com/ under the tryout link.
The Raleigh RoughRiders will be joining the Continental Basketball League this spring. The RoughRiders are scheduled to begin play when the CBL regular season begins on May 1st. There will be 14 games during the regular season, with 7 home contests to be played at The Dream Center Entertainment Complex in north Raleigh.Johnny Tyson (6'11''-F/C-71, college: Cent.Oklahoma) is the head coach.


*****************************************************
  CENTRAL AFRICA   


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

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

Max Kouguere
Max Kouguere
   #1. This week's number one is an international forward Max Kouguere (198-87). He contributed to a Le Mans' victory against the 13th-ranked Poitiers (8-16) 83-75 in the French ProA in Saturday night's game. Kouguere scored 9 points in 19 minutes on the court. Le Mans Sarthe Basket (16-8) is placed fifth in the ProA. It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row. It's Kouguere's first season with the team. This year he averages: 4.0ppg, 1.4rpg, 2FGP: 75.0%(15-20), 3FGP: 38.6% and FT: 58.3% in the 22 games he played so far. Kouguere has a dual citizenship: Congolese and Central African. Despite he played previously for the Congolese national team, Kouguere is currently a member of the Central African senior national team.

Romain Sato
Romain Sato
   #2. Second place goes to an international swingman Romain Sato (194-81, college: Xavier), who plays in Greece. He could not help Panathinaikos (4-2) to beat Maccabi T-A (3-3). Sato scored only 4 points. The first-placed Panathinaikos was edged 65-62 on the road by the second-ranked Maccabi T-A in the group G of Euroleague. Sato's overall stats this season are: 8.0ppg, 5.2rpg, 1.1apg, 2FGP: 45.8%, 3FGP: 34.8% and FT: 72.0%. He is in the roster of the Central African senior national team.

Michael Mokongo
Michael Mokongo
   #3. The Central African player who performed third best last week abroad was an international point guard Michael Mokongo (180-86). Mokongo managed to help Chorale de Roanne Basket in a victory against the league outsider Hyeres-Toulon (2-22) crushing them 85-60 in the French ProA on Tuesday night. He scored only 2 points and added 7 passes in 17 minutes. Chorale de Roanne Basket (12-12) is placed seventh in the ProA. It was his team's third consecutive victory in a row. This year Mokongo's overall stats are: 2.8ppg, 1.5apg, 2FGP: 48.9%, 3FGP: 15.8% and FT: 37.5% in the 20 games. He is another player who holds two passports: Central African and French. Mokongo is also a member of the Central African senior national team.

Maxime Zianveni
Maxime Zianveni
   #4. An experienced forward Maxime Zianveni (198-79) was not able to help Strasbourg IG (10-14) in their game against Gravelines-Dunkerque (21-3) in the French ProA. He scored only 4 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. Strasbourg IG was edged 66-65 on the opponent's court by the leading Gravelines-Dunkerque. Zianveni's total stats this season are: 5.5ppg and 4.4rpg. He has both Central African and French nationalities. Zianveni is also Central African national team player.

Martial Gotagni
Martial Gotagni
   #5. International forward Martial Gotagni (190-79), who plays in the French NM1 (third division) was not able to secure a victory for Le Puy ASMB (4-24) in their last game. Despite his good performance Le Puy ASMB lost 68-76 in Brest to the much higher-ranked (#9) Etendard de. Gotagni was the second best scorer with 12 points. He also added 5 rebounds in 33 minutes. It was Le Puy ASMB's 12th consecutive loss in a row. Gotagni has relatively good stats this year: 11.4ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.4apg and 1.5spg in the 24 games. Despite he played previously for the French national team, Gotagni is currently in the Central African national team roster.

Stephane Dondon
Stephane Dondon
   #6. Forward Stephane Dondon (203-77, college: Virginia) couldn't help JA Vichy (7-21) in their game against Olympique Antibes (13-15) in the French ProB (second division). He recorded 7 points. JA Vichy was badly defeated 73-57 in Antibes by the much higher-ranked Olympique (#10). Dondon's total stats this season are: 4.3ppg and 3.9rpg. Despite he played previously for the French national team, Dondon is also a former international player as he played for the Central African senior team nine years ago.

James Mays
James Mays
   #7. International forward James Mays (206-86, college: Clemson) couldn't help Mersin (12-10) in their game against Aliaga (12-13) in the Turkish TBL. He cannot count it as his best performance. Mays recorded only 2 points in 5 minutes on the court. Mersin lost 80-90 on the opponent's court to the lower-ranked (#7) Aliaga. This year Mays has relatively solid stats: 11.4ppg, 5.4rpg and 1.1apg in the 17 games. He is a naturalized American. Mays is also Central African national team player. Strangely he has never played in Central Africa.

Lionel Bomayako
Lionel Bomayako
   #8. Guard Lionel Bomayako (196-78, college: Fair Dickinson) helped Orchesien BC win their game against the seventh-ranked Blois (18-10) 69-63 in the French NM1 (third division) last Saturday. Bomayako recorded 6 points. Orchesien BC (20-8) is placed third in the NM1. This season Bomayako averages only 3.0ppg. Despite he played previously for the French national team, Bomayako is currently in the Central African national team roster.

Other top Central African players, who play abroad:

Anicet Lavodrama (203-F-63) plays for Blancos de Rueda in Spanish ACB
Jimmy Djimrabaye (203-F/C-92) plays for JA Vichy in French ProB
Regis Koundjia-Sindo (203-F-83) plays for Le Puy ASMB in French NM1
Benjamin M'Boli (199-F-88) plays for Ouest Lyonnais in French NM2
Yannick Zachee (194-F-86) plays for Get Vosges in French NM2
Salomon Sami (190-G-77) plays for Golfe Juan in French NM2
Francois Pehoua-Tara-Ngoyi (196-F-83) plays for Marmande in French NM2

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


*****************************************************
  COLOMBIA   


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

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

Juan Palacios
Juan Palacios
   #1. This week's number one is former international power forward Juan Palacios (204-85), who plays in the Spanish ACB. Palacios could not help Gran Canaria 2014 (11-16) in their last game on Sunday. Despite his good performance Gran Canaria 2014 was defeated 78-72 on the road by the much higher-ranked Gescrap BB (#5). Palacios scored 10 points. This season Palacios averages: 8.2ppg, 4.2rpg, 2FGP: 46.3%, 3FGP: 30.8% and FT: 78.6%. Despite he played previously for the Venezuelan national team, Palacios played also for the Colombian national team in 2009.

Eduardo Torres
Eduardo Torres
   #2. Second place goes to former international forward Eduardo Torres (195-81). He was not able to help Panteras (6-20) in their game against Marinos (24-8) in the Venezuelan LPB, despite his very good performance on Wednesday night. Torres was the second best scorer with 20 points. He also added 4 steals in 33 minutes. But Panteras was crushed 92-71 at home by the leading Marinos. It was Panteras' sixth consecutive loss in a row. This year Torres' overall stats are: 7.4ppg, 2.3rpg, 1.3spg in the 19 games he played so far. He has a dual citizenship: Colombian and Venezuelan. Despite Torres played previously for the Venezuelan national team, he played also for the Colombian national team in 2009.

Deivis Ananguren
Deivis Ananguren
   #3. The Colombian player who performed third best last week abroad was former international forward Deivis Ananguren (192-85). Ananguren led Guaros to a victory against the closely-ranked Guaiqueries (14-14) 95-81 in the Venezuelan LPB in Sunday night's game. He scored 11 points and grabbed 4 rebounds. Guaros de Lara (10-18) is placed eighth in the LPB. Ananguren's total stats this season are: 6.8ppg, 3.1rpg, 1.1spg. Despite he played previously for the Venezuelan national team, Ananguren played also for the Colombian national team in 2009.

Jesus Urbina
Jesus Urbina
   #4. Forward Jesus Urbina (201-84, college: George Mason) was the major contributor in Toros' surprising victory against the third-ranked Gigantes (17-9) 97-86 in the Venezuelan LPB last Saturday. He recorded 16 points and grabbed 8 rebounds in 26 minutes. Toros de Aragua (5-23) is located at the very bottom in the LPB. Urbina is currently third on the list of best rebounders with 7.9rpg. This year he also averages: 14.4ppg, 1.1apg and 1.5spg in the 26 games. Urbina is another player who holds two passports: Colombian and Venezuelan. Despite he played previously for the Venezuelan national team, Urbina is currently in the Colombian national team roster.

   #5. Former international swingman Cesar Silva (190-81) faced previously mentioned Deivis Ananguren in the Venezuelan LPB last game. Silva was not able to secure a victory for Guaiqueries (14-14) in their game against Guaros (10-18). Despite his very good performance on Sunday night He was the second best scorer with 14 points. Silva's total stats this season are: 5.6ppg, 2.0rpg and 1.1apg. He has both Colombian and Venezuelan nationalities. Despite Silva played previously for the Venezuelan national team, he is currently in the Colombian national team roster.

Fernando Lucena
Fernando Lucena
   #6. Guard Fernando Lucena (185-86) is a teammate of previously mentioned Jesus Urbina and both played together in the last Venezuelan LPB game. Lucena contributed to Toros' shocking victory against the third-ranked Gigantes (17-9) 97-86. He recorded 16 points in a mere 18 minutes. This year Lucena averages only 5.3ppg in the 26 games. Despite he played previously for the Venezuelan national team, Lucena is also a former international player as he played for the Colombian senior team two years ago.

Jackson Zapata
Jackson Zapata
   #7. Former international forward Jackson Zapata (198-85) is a teammate of previously mentioned Deivis Ananguren. But that was another game of his team in Venezuelan LPB which we would like to mention. Zapata couldn't help one of league's weakest teams Guaros (10-18) in their game against Gaiteros (12-18). He scored 7 points. Guaros was defeated 74-70 in Maracaibo by the higher-ranked Gaiteros (#7). Zapata's total stats this season are: 4.3ppg and 2.3rpg. Despite he played previously for the Venezuelan U21 national team, Zapata is currently in the Colombian national team roster.

Enielsen Guevara
Enielsen Guevara
   #8. Power forward Enielsen Guevara (204-82) faced previously mentioned Eduardo Torres in the Venezuelan LPB last game. Guevara managed to help Marinos de Anzoategui in a victory against one of league's weakest teams Panteras (6-20) crushing them 92-71. He scored only 2 points in 9 minutes on the court. This year Guevara's total stats are: 1.6ppg and 1.2rpg in the nine games. He used to play for the Colombian national team back in 2010.

   #9. An experienced former international forward Jorge Diaz (195-77) faced previously mentioned Jesus Urbina in the Venezuelan LPB last game. Diaz couldn't help Gigantes (17-9) in their game against Toros (5-23). He cannot count Saturday's game as one of the best ones. Diaz recorded only 3 points. Gigantes was defeated 97-86 in Maracay by the league outsider Toros (#10). This season Diaz averages just 2.6ppg. He used to play for the Colombian national team two years ago.

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

   #1. Luis Julio (201-F/C-80), who plays in Venezuela could not help Bucaneros (0-3) in their last game. Despite his very good performance the fourth-placed Bucaneros lost 81-89 on the road to the second-ranked Pioneros in the group E of Liga Americas. Julio was the second best scorer with 20 points. He also added 9 rebounds in 36 minutes. So far Bucaneros lost all three games in the Second Stage. The Second Stage already ended in the Liga Americas. This year Julio averages: 8.5ppg and 5.0rpg in the four games he played so far. He has a dual citizenship: Colombian and Venezuelan. Despite Julio's Colombian passport, he previously played for the Venezuelan national team and is probably not eligible to play for the Colombian team.


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

A1 Standings

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

Second Stage: Round 5

Championship

Apr. 3: Zabok - KK Split 91-101
Apr. 3: Zadar - Cibona 74-84
Apr. 3: Jolly - Svjetlost 70-60
Apr. 4: KK Zagreb CO - Cedevita

Play-Out

Apr. 4: Dubrovnik - Borik
Apr. 4: Alkar Sinj - Darda
Apr. 4: Krizevci - Kvarner 2010


Stats Leaders - A1

Points Per Game
 Ivan MIMICA
  KK Split
  (193-G-80)
  Avg: 20.2
 1. Mimica, KK Split20.2 
 2. Ceskovic, Kvarner18.8 
 3. Ross, Jolly18.1 
 4. Vrbanc, Zadar15.6 
 5. Simovic, Kvarner15.6 
 6. Sobin, KK Split14.7 
 7. Kruslin, Zabok14.3 
 8. Budimir, Darda14.1 
 9. Peraica, Darda14.1 
 10. Grgat, Krizevci14.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Teo SIMOVIC
  Kvarner .
  (205-C-84)
  Avg: 7.8
 1. Simovic, Kvarner7.8 
 2. Ivanov, Zadar7.4 
 3. Zupic, Alkar Sinj6.8 
 4. Sobin, KK Split6.8 
 5. Cinac, Kvarner 20106.5 
 6. Peraica, Darda6.3 
 7. Sarlija, Borik5.9 
 8. Kastropil, Zadar5.9 
 9. Grgat, Krizevci5.7 
 10. Vrsaljko, Jolly5.7 
Assists Per Game
 Josip GLAVINIC
  Krizevci
  (192-G-82)
  Avg: 4.9
 1. Glavinic, Krizevci4.9 
 2. Ross, Jolly4.3 
 3. Subotic, KK Split3.8 
 4. Kostomaj, Svjet.3.6 
 5. Ceskovic, Kvarner3.4 
 6. Tomas, Zabok2.8 
 7. Bubalo, Alkar Sinj2.7 
 8. Kruslin, Zabok2.7 
 9. Dosen, Dubrovnik2.6 
 10. Mimica, KK Split2.4 
Steals Per Game
 Ronald ROSS
  Jolly
  (188-G-83)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Ross, Jolly2.8 
 2. Kostomaj, Svjet.2.2 
 3. Bicvic, Darda2.1 
 4. Ceskovic, Kvarner1.6 
 5. Zadnik, Zadar1.6 
 6. Mimica, KK Split1.6 
 7. Ivanov, Zadar1.5 
 8. Krapic, Zadar1.5 
 9. Sobin, KK Split1.5 
 10. Sarlija, Borik1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Marino SARLIJA
  Borik
  (207-F/C-89)
  Avg: 1.5
 1. Sarlija, Borik1.5 
 2. Kraljevic, Zabok1.3 
 3. Zupic, Alkar Sinj1.2 
 4. Bubalo, Zabok1.1 
 5. Vukovic, KK Split0.8 
 6. Buva, Krizevci0.8 
 7. Kastropil, Zadar0.7 
 8. Sobin, KK Split0.6 
 9. Diminic, Dubrovnik0.5 
 10. Cakarun, Borik0.5 


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

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

Marko Banic
Marko Banic
   #1. This week's number one is former international forward Marko Banic (205-84). He was the major contributor in a Gescrap BB's victory against the leader CSKA Moscow (5-1) 94-81 in the Euroleague in Wednesday night's game. Banic scored 18 points in 20 minutes on the court. It was the game of the round between two top 2 ranked teams in group F. Gescrap Bizkaia Bilbao Basket (4-2) is placed second. It was his team's third consecutive victory in a row. It's Banic's sixth season with the team. He has relatively good stats this year: 13.3ppg, 4.0rpg, 2FGP: 63.8%(104-163) and FT: 79.4% in the 20 games he played so far. Banic played for the Croatian senior national team two years ago.

Kresimir Loncar
Kresimir Loncar
   #2. Second place goes to former international forward Kresimir Loncar (210-83, agency: Alti Sport), who plays in Russia. He could not help Khimky (5-1) in their last game on Tuesday. Despite Loncar's good performance the second-placed Khimky was defeated 81-77 on the road by the leading Lokomotiv in the group J of Eurocup. He scored 13 points and grabbed 4 rebounds. This season Loncar has relatively solid stats: 12.6ppg, 4.2rpg, 2FGP: 56.8%(67-118) and FT: 82.7%. He played for the Croatian national team in 2010.

Marko Popovic
Marko Popovic
   #3. The Croatian player who performed third best last week abroad was an international guard Marko Popovic (185-82, college: S.Idaho JC). Popovic contributed to an easy victory against the ninth-ranked Juventus (6-15) crushing them 81-60 in the Lithuanian LKL on Saturday night. He scored 10 points and added 8 assists in 22 minutes. B.C. Zalgiris Kaunas (18-0) is placed first in the LKL. So far his team won all eighteen games in the Regular Season. They will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And that game will be critical. This year Popovic averages: 7.6ppg, 1.4rpg, 3.5apg, 2FGP: 59.3%(16-27), 3FGP: 31.7% and FT: 85.0% in the 14 games. He is also a member of the Croatian senior national team.

Roko-Leni Ukic
Roko-Leni Ukic
   #4. Guard Roko-Leni Ukic (196-84) contributed to an easy victory against the 13th-ranked Olin Edirne (7-18) crushing them 81-48 in the Turkish TBL in Saturday night's game. Ukic recorded 10 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists. Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul (19-6) is placed fourth in the TBL. It was his team's seventh consecutive victory in a row. Ukic has reliable stats this season: 10.5ppg, 2.9rpg and 4.1apg. He used to play for the Croatian national team back in 2010.

Rok Stipcevic
Rok Stipcevic
   #5. International point guard Rok Stipcevic (185-86) led Cimberio Varese to a victory over the closely-ranked Banco di Sardegna Sassari (15-10) 85-79 in the Italian SerieA last Sunday. Stipcevic was MVP of the game. He scored 19 points and added 6 assists in 32 minutes. Cimberio Varese (13-12) is placed eighth in the SerieA. Stipcevic is ranked seventh on the list of the best passers in the league with 4.0apg. This year he also averages: 12.0ppg, 2.8rpg and 1.4spg in the 25 games. Stipcevic plays currently for the Croatian national team.

Jure Lalic
Jure Lalic
   #6. Center Jure Lalic (212-86) contributed to Krka's victory against the sixth-ranked Sentjur (0-3) 88-74 in the Slovenian Telemach League on Wednesday night. He scored 13 points. Krka Novo Mesto (2-1) is placed third in Championship Group. But this is still an early stage of the season and everything may happen. It's Lalic's first year with the team. Lalic's overall stats this season are: 9.3ppg and 1.7rpg. He is a former U20 international player as he played for the Croatian team six years ago.

Igor Milicic
Igor Milicic
   #7. An experienced former international guard Igor Milicic (194-76, also represented by Alti Sport) contributed to an AZS Koszalin's victory against the leader Slask Wroclaw (21-13) 82-77 in the Polish PLK in Wednesday night's game. Milicic scored 19 points, made 5 passes and 3 steals in 28 minutes. It was the game of the round between two top 3 ranked teams in Group B. AZS Koszalin (18-16) is placed second. It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row. There are only four games left until the end of the Second Stage. So now every game is very crucial. Milicic is one of the most experienced players in a team as it's his fourth year in AZS Koszalin's roster. He is currently fifth on the list of best passers with 5.0apg. Milicic also averaged so far 9.8ppg and 2.5rpg in the 33 games. Despite he played previously for the Polish national team, Milicic is currently in the Croatian national team roster.

Drazen Bubnic
Drazen Bubnic
   #8. Forward Drazen Bubnic (205-86), who plays in the Slovenian Telemach League was not able to help Helios (2-1) in their last game on Sunday. Despite his good performance Helios (#2) was defeated 65-59 at home by the leading Union Olimpija in the Championship Group. Bubnic was the second best scorer with 14 points. He also added 9 rebounds. Bubnic averaged so far 13.0ppg, 5.1rpg and 2.1apg. Despite he played previously for the Polish national team, Bubnic is currently in the Croatian U20 national team roster.

Jure Skific
Jure Skific
   #9. Former U18 international power forward Jure Skific (202-88) contributed to a 1-point Zlatorog's victory against the sixth-ranked Sentjur (0-3) 80-79 in the Slovenian Telemach League on Saturday night. He had a double-double by scoring 14 points and getting 11 rebounds. Skific also added and 3 steals in 37 minutes. Zlatorog Lasko (1-2) is placed fourth in Championship Group. They ended the series of three consecutive loses. Skific's stats this year are: 10.2ppg, 4.9rpg, 1.1apg and 1.4spg in the 19 games. Despite he played previously for the Polish national team, Skific is currently in the Croatian U18 national team roster.

Andrija Stipanovic
Andrija Stipanovic
   #10. Center Andrija Stipanovic (209-86) was not able to secure a victory for Otto Caserta (10-15) in their game against Vanoli-Braga (10-16) in the Italian SerieA. Despite his good performance in Sunday night's game He recorded a double-double by scoring 12 points and getting the same number of rebounds. Stipanovic also added and 4 steals. Stipanovic's overall stats this season are: 7.3ppg, 5.9rpg and 1.2spg. Despite he played previously for the Polish national team, Stipanovic is also a former international player as five years ago he still played for the Croatian senior national team.

   #11. Former international power forward Drago Pasalic (208-84) is a teammate of previously mentioned Drazen Bubnic. But that was another game of his team in Slovenian Telemach League which we would like to mention. Pasalic contributed to Helios' victory against the fifth-ranked Elektra 78-67. He scored 11 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in 24 minutes. Pasalic is currently eighth on the list of top scorers with 13.5ppg. This year he also averages: 5.6rpg in the 21 games. Despite Pasalic played previously for the Polish national team, he is currently in the Croatian national team roster.

   #12. International center Luksa Andric (210-85, agency: Beo Basket) managed to help Galatasaray Medical Park Istanbul to win against the fifth-ranked Besiktas 92-81 in a derby game in the Turkish TBL on Monday night. Andric recorded only 4 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. His overall stats this season are: 7.4ppg and 3.7rpg. Andric is also in the roster of the Croatian national team.

   #13. International forward Igor Maric (196-85) faced previously mentioned Jure Skific in the Slovenian Telemach League last game. Maric couldn't help Sentjur in their game against Zlatorog, despite his very good performance in Saturday night's game. He scored 14 points and grabbed 9 rebounds in 35 minutes. But his team was edged 80-79. Maric is ranked sixth on the list of the top scorers in the league with 14.0ppg. He also averaged so far 6.5rpg, 1.2apg and 1.5spg in the 21 games. Despite Maric played previously for the Polish national team, he is currently in the Croatian national team roster.

   #14. Former international center Jurica Zuza (207-78, another player represented by Alti Sport) contributed to a 1-point Tofas' victory against one of league's weakest teams Trabzonspor 84-83 in the Turkish TBL last Saturday. Zuza recorded 14 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. He averaged so far 12.0ppg, 4.1rpg and 1.2apg. Despite Zuza played previously for the Polish national team, he is currently in the Croatian national team roster.

   #15. Former international forward Nikola Radulovic (207-73) couldn't help Givova Scafati in their game against Biancoblu BO in the Italian Lega2 (second division), despite his very good performance on Sunday night. Radulovic was the top scorer with 17 points. He also added 6 rebounds and made 3 blocks in 33 minutes. But his team lost 65-76. Radulovic is currently fourth on the list of best blockers and also on the list of most steals (third place). He has very reliable stats this year: 11.0ppg, 5.0rpg, 1.8apg and 2.7spg in the 25 games. Despite Radulovic played previously for the Italian national team, he is currently in the Croatian national team roster.


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

Standings - NBL

NBL Standings
A1
 1. CEZ Nymburk 32-2 
 2. BK Prostejov 24-10 
 3. BK Decin 23-11 
 4. BK Pardubice 23-11 
 5. BC Kolin 22-23 
 6. USK Praha 16-17 
A2
 1. NH Ostrava 26-14 
 2. Levice 18-22 
 3. Svitavy 18-22 
 4. Chomutov 16-24 
 5. Usti n/Labem 15-25 
 6. Inter Bratislava 10-30 
 7. Plzen 10-30 
 8. B&W Opava 9-31 
Stage Two Standings

Second Stage: Round 9

Apr. 3: BC Kolin - CEZ Nymburk 66-75
Apr. 4: BK Pardubice - USK Praha
Apr. 4: BK Decin - BK Prostejov


Stats Leaders - NBL

Points Per Game
 Peter SEDMAK
  USK Praha
  (207-C-85)
  Avg: 20
 1. Sedmak, USK Praha20.0 
 2. Pope, Chomutov19.6 
 3. Grant, Levice18.8 
 4. McFadden, Usti n.18.5 
 5. Wright, Chomutov17.9 
 6. Hruban, USK Praha17.6 
 7. Lowery, Chomutov17.6 
 8. Houska, BK Decin15.4 
 9. Arnold, BK Pardu.15.0 
 10. Meno, Svitavy14.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Stanislav VOTROUBEK
  USK P.
  (212-C-81)
  Avg: 9.2
 1. Votroubek, USK P.9.2 
 2. Meno, Svitavy8.4 
 3. Pesic, Inter B.8.1 
 4. Gottselig, Usti n.8.0 
 5. Arnold, BK Pardu.7.8 
 6. Gadri-N., BK Prost.7.6 
 7. Naymick, CEZ N.7.5 
 8. Peterson, BK Prost.7.4 
 9. Houska, BK Decin7.0 
 10. Gavran, Inter B.6.8 
Assists Per Game
 Emanuel UBILLA
  Inter B.
  (188-G-86)
  Avg: 5.3
 1. Ubilla, Inter B.5.3 
 2. Deloach, Svitavy5.1 
 3. Wright, NH Ostrava4.8 
 4. Sotnar, USK Praha4.7 
 5. Vrubl, Plzen4.6 
 6. Wright, Chomutov4.6 
 7. Barnes, BC Kolin4.1 
 8. Sirina, B&W Opava4.0 
 9. Lawrence, CEZ N.3.9 
 10. Ames, BC Kolin3.9 
Steals Per Game
 Rashaan AMES
  BC Kolin
  (184-PG-78)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. Ames, BC Kolin2.7 
 2. Ubilla, Inter B.2.5 
 3. Wright, Chomutov2.4 
 4. McFadden, Usti n.2.2 
 5. Wright, NH Ostrava2.1 
 6. Lowery, Chomutov1.9 
 7. Sirina, B&W Opava1.9 
 8. Klecka, B&W Opava1.9 
 9. Pumprla, CEZ N.1.9 
 10. Deloach, Svitavy1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Andrew NAYMICK
  CEZ N.
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 1.6
 1. Naymick, CEZ N.1.6 
 2. Miklosik, B&W O.1.4 
 3. Gadri-N., BK Prost.1.3 
 4. Hughes, NH Ostrava1.2 
 5. Williams, BK Decin1.0 
 6. Reese, Usti n.0.9 
 7. Grant, Levice0.9 
 8. Houska, BK Decin0.8 
 9. Pumprla, CEZ N.0.8 
 10. Arnold, BK Pardu.0.8 


Ladislav Pecka claims Czech Republic NBL weekly honour - by Eurobasket News

Talented Ladislav Pecka (197-F-91) had an amazing evening in the last round for Plzen (they play in A2) and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 8 (Second Stage).
The 20-year old forward had a double-double of 20 points and eleven rebounds, while his team beat Chomutov (#-2, 16-24) 79-74. It allowed Plzen to jump to the first place in the Czech Republic NBL. The season is in a full swing, so it's only a dream for the team to make it into top half of the standings. For contrary they may face relegation if the situation turns from bad to worse. Plzen have already lost 30 games and recorded just ten victories. Pecka has many years of experience at Plzen, through which he has constantly improved. Ladislav Pecka averages this season 10.3ppg and 5.5rpg.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 27-year old Polish center Pawel Mroz (215-C-84) of Svitavy. Mroz impressed basketball fans with 25 points and 4 rebounds. Of course Svitavy cruised to a 75-66 relatively comfortable win over the lower-ranked B&W Opava (#2, 9-31). This victory allowed Svitavy to move up to -3th position in A2. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 18-22 record. Mroz is a newcomer at Svitavy and despite he is not a team leader yet, every game he becomes more reliable player. Hopefully performances like the last one will happen more often.

The third best performed player last round was American James Hughes (211-C-83, agency: I.D.S. Law) of NH Ostrava (#-5). Hughes scored 19 points and grabbed seven rebounds. He was a key player of NH Ostrava, leading his team to a 91-73 easy win against #-1 ranked Usti n/Labem in a game of the week. NH Ostrava needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams in A2. Their record at this point is 26 victories and 14 lost games. Hughes has a very solid season. In 39 games in Czech Republic he scored 14.1ppg. He also has 6.6rpg, 1.2bpg and FGP: 58.5%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Martin Vanak (200-F-87) of B&W Opava - 26 points and 5 rebounds
5. Ladislav Toth (196-F-83) of Plzen - 19 points and 12 rebounds
6. Travis Peterson (208-C/F-85) of BK Prostejov - 22 points and 7 rebounds
7. Adam Waleskowski (204-F-82) of Levice - 19 points and 9 rebounds
8. Mihajlo Pesic (206-F/C-81) of Inter Bratislava - 15 points and 10 rebounds
9. Boris Meno (203-F-83) of Svitavy - 16 points, 10 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Chadwick-Farrell Barnes (190-G-83) of BC Kolin - 19 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists

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


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

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

Jan Vesely
Jan Vesely
   #1. This week's number one is former international forward Jan Vesely (211-90), who plays in the NBA. He could not help the Washington Wizards (12-41) in their last game. Despite Vesely's good performance the Washington Wizards lost 98-112 on the road to the Milwaukee Bucks. He scored 14 points and grabbed 7 rebounds in 39 minutes on the court. It's Vesely's first season with the team. This year Vesely averages: 3.7ppg, 3.5rpg, 2FGP: 54.3% and FT: 52.0% in the 44 games he played so far. He played for the Czech Republic senior national team two years ago.

Jiri Welsch
Jiri Welsch
   #2. Second place goes to former international forward Jiri Welsch (201-80), who plays in the Belgian D1. Welsch was not able to help Spirou Charleroi (17-7) in their last game on Wednesday. Despite his very good performance the league leader Spirou Charleroi was edged 91-90 in Aalst by the lower-ranked Okapi ar (#4). Welsch was the second best scorer with 19 points. He also added 6 passes. Welsch's overall stats this season are: 9.1ppg, 3.7rpg, 2.4apg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 45.9%, 3FGP: 29.6% and FT: 68.5%. He played for the Czech Republic national team in 2010.

Jan Kratochvil
Jan Kratochvil
   #3. The Czech Republic player who performed third best last week abroad was former international forward Jan Kratochvil (200-82). Kratochvil was the major contributor in Komarno's victory against the closely-ranked Svit (17-15) 97-88 in the Slovakian Extraliga on Saturday night. He scored 15 points, grabbed 5 rebounds and dished 3 assists in 23 minutes. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. MBK Rieker Komarno (22-10) is placed first in the Extraliga. It was his team's ninth consecutive victory in a row. This year Kratochvil's overall stats are: 9.1ppg, 4.7rpg, 1.7apg, 3FGP: 25.0% and FT: 83.3% in the 36 games. He played for the Czech Republic national team two years ago.

Ondrej Starosta
Ondrej Starosta
   #4. An experienced center Ondrej Starosta (215-79) led Grupo Iruna Navarra to a victory against the 12th-ranked Caceres 2016 (14-16) 84-76 in the Spanish LEB Gold (second division) in Friday night's game. Starosta recorded a double-double by scoring 11 points and getting 10 rebounds. He also added 3 blocks. Grupo Iruna Navarra (5-21) is placed first in the LEB Gold. There are only four games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. Starosta is currently fifth on the league's list of best rebounders. He has very reliable stats this season: 11.7ppg and 7.9rpg. Starosta used to play for the Czech Republic national team back in 2008.

David Jelinek
David Jelinek
   #5. Former international guard David Jelinek (196-90) contributed to a FIATC Joventut's victory against the league outsider Blancos de Rueda (6-21) 83-73 in the Spanish ACB last Sunday. He scored 11 points in a mere 17 minutes. FIATC Joventut Badalona (12-15) is placed 11th in the ACB. This year Jelinek's total stats are: 7.4ppg and 1.3rpg in the 27 games. He used to play for the Czech Republic national team two years ago.

Jakub Kudlacek
Jakub Kudlacek
   #6. Guard Jakub Kudlacek (193-90), who plays in the Italian SerieA was not able to secure a victory for Otto Caserta (10-15) in their last game on Sunday. Despite Kudlacek's good performance Otto Caserta was edged 77-74 at home by the lower-ranked Vanoli-Braga (#15). He scored 10 points. Kudlacek has averaged so far 4.8ppg and 1.2rpg. He is an international player who is currently on the senior Czech Republic National Team roster.

Lubos Barton
Lubos Barton
   #7. International swingman Lubos Barton (202-80, college: Valparaiso) is a teammate of previously mentioned David Jelinek and both played together in the last Spanish ACB game. Barton helped FIATC Joventut win their game against the league outsider Blancos de Rueda (6-21) 83-73. He scored 7 points in 20 minutes. Barton has averaged so far 6.9ppg and 4.1rpg in the seven games. He is also Czech Republic national team player.

David Steffel
David Steffel
   #8. Power forward David Steffel (212-85) helped Rovinari win their game against the fourth-ranked Targu Mures (23-7) 85-80 in the Romanian Division A last Saturday. Steffel scored 8 points and grabbed 10 rebounds. CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu (16-12) is placed eighth in the Division A. It was his team's third consecutive victory in a row. They will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And now that game is very crucial. Steffel has relatively good stats this season: 13.2ppg, 8.2rpg and 1.6apg. He plays currently for the Czech Republic national team.

Ivo Hoger
Ivo Hoger
   #9. International center Ivo Hoger (225-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza) helped Olimpi win their game against the sixth-ranked Dinamo Tbilisi (9-9) crushing them 92-54 in a derby game in the Georgian Superleague on Saturday night. Hoger scored 7 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in 22 minutes. Olimpi Tbilisi (15-3) is placed second in the Superleague. It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row. There are only two games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be important. Hoger is currently seventh on the list of best rebounders with 8.9rpg. This year his other stats are: 13.2ppg and 1.1bpg in the 16 games. Hoger is also in the roster of the Czech Republic national team.

Tomas Satoransky
Tomas Satoransky
   #10. Guard Tomas Satoransky (200-91) managed to help Cajasol Banca Civica Sevilla to win against one of league's weakest teams Asefa Estudiantes (7-20) 77-64 in the Spanish ACB in Sunday night's game. He scored only 2 points. Cajasol Banca Civica Sevilla (14-13) is placed eighth in the ACB. Satoransky has averaged so far 4.9ppg, 2.3rpg and 1.3apg. He is a former international player as two years ago he still played for the Czech Republic senior national team.

   #11. U20 international forward Ondrej Kohout (204-91) helped Fontedoso Carrefour win their game against the closely-ranked Leyma Basquet 61-53 in the Spanish LEB Silver (third division) last Saturday. Kohout scored 8 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in 19 minutes. Kohout has averaged so far 7.0ppg and 4.3rpg in the 21 games. He plays currently for the Czech Republic U20 national team.

   #12. International center Martin Ides (217-80, college: Davidson) couldn't help NBC in their game against ETB Wohnbau in the German ProA (second division). Ides cannot count Saturday's game as one of the best ones. He scored only 3 points. His team was defeated in an overtime 100-96. Ides has averaged so far 4.0ppg and 1.6rpg. He is also in the roster of the Czech Republic national team.


BK Opava Releases Zrinko Gudelj - by Surujh Roopnarine

At the bottom of the standings in the NBL with a 9-31 record, BK Breda & Weinstein Opava announced the release of Croatian import Zrinko Gudelj (199-G/F-84). Joining the team in February, the 6-7 Gudelj appeared in 13 games for Opava, averaging 6.5 points, 3.7 rebounds and 1.0 assists while shooting 32-84 (38.1%) from the field and 8-25 (32.0%) from three.
Opava has competed in the Mattoni NBL, primarily without the assistance of American imports, since the 2008-09 season and would face relegation to the 1.Liga unless their fortunes turn around soon.


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

Standings

D-League Standings
East Conference
 1. Dakota W. 27-20 
 2. Springfield A. 27-20 
 3. Canton C. 26-21 
 4. Erie Bay H. 26-21 
 5. Iowa E. 25-22 
 6. Maine RC 19-29 
 7. Sioux Falls S. 14-33 
 8. Ft.Wayne MA 12-35 
West Conference
 1. Los Angeles D. 35-12 
 2. Austin T. 31-16 
 3. Bakersfield J. 27-20 
 4. Texas L. 24-23 
 5. Tulsa 66ers 23-25 
 6. Rio Grande VV 23-25 
 7. Reno B. 20-27 
 8. Idaho S. 19-29 

Regular Season: Round 72

Apr. 2: Dakota W. - Bakersfield J. 111-92
Apr. 3: Erie Bay H. - Springfield A.
Apr. 3: Dakota W. - Sioux Falls S.
Apr. 3: Iowa E. - Bakersfield J.
Apr. 4: Canton C. - Ft.Wayne MA
Apr. 4: Austin T. - Texas L.
Apr. 4: Los Angeles D. - Reno B.


Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Morris ALMOND
  Maine RC
  (198-F/G-85)
  Avg: 24
 1. Almond, Maine RC24.0 
 2. Ahearn, Reno B.23.8 
 3. Emmett, Reno B.23.1 
 4. Dentmon, Austin T.22.8 
 5. Costner, Los A.20.9 
 6. Ubiles, Dakota W.20.5 
 7. Mitchell, Sioux F.19.6 
 8. Efevberha, Iowa E.19.3 
 9. Millsap, Los A.19.1 
 10. Green, Los A.19.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Marcus LEWIS
  Tulsa 66ers
  (203-F/C-86)
  Avg: 12.6
 1. Lewis, Tulsa 66ers12.6 
 2. Harangody, Canton12.3 
 3. Dawson, Austin T.10.4 
 4. Thomas, Los A.9.3 
 5. Criswell-L., Austi.8.9 
 6. Foote, Springfield8.8 
 7. Williams, Texas L.8.5 
 8. Horner, Springfi.8.5 
 9. Goldcamp, Erie B.8.4 
 10. Reid, Tulsa 66ers8.4 
Assists Per Game
 Walker RUSSELL
  Ft.Wayne.
  (183-G-82)
  Avg: 9.9
 1. Russell, Ft.Wayne.9.9 
 2. Conroy, Rio G.9.0 
 3. Daniels, Texas L.8.8 
 4. Wise, Bakersfield6.4 
 5. Curry, Springfield6.3 
 6. Stinson, Iowa E.5.9 
 7. Fortson, Los A.5.9 
 8. Baker, Dakota W.5.9 
 9. Bailey, Idaho S.5.7 
 10. Brazelton, Erie B.5.6 
Steals Per Game
 Dominique COLEMAN
  Sioux F.
  (190-G-84)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Coleman, Sioux F.2.1 
 2. Hannah, Dakota W.2.1 
 3. Fortson, Los A.2.1 
 4. Blakely, Sioux F.2.0 
 5. Smith, Springfield2.0 
 6. Curry, Springfield2.0 
 7. Saunders, Rio G.1.9 
 8. Owens, Tulsa 66ers1.9 
 9. Millsap, Los A.1.9 
 10. Bobbitt, Idaho S.1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Will FOSTER
  Idaho S.
  (226-C-88)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Foster, Idaho S.2.9 
 2. Williams, Texas L.2.5 
 3. Saunders, Rio G.2.3 
 4. Daniels, Erie B.2.1 
 5. Thomas, Los A.2.1 
 6. Hill, Maine RC1.8 
 7. Dawson, Austin T.1.7 
 8. Ojougboh, Tulsa1.6 
 9. Strong, Iowa E.1.5 
 10. Dove, Dakota W.1.5 


Charge look to new guard Akognon for scoring punch - by Eurobasket News

The flames of a playoff race have been stoked. New Charge guard Akognon Josh-Emmanuel (5'11''-G-86, college: CS Fullerton) feels them.

'A lot of heat on me,' he said with a smile after Monday's practice at Edgewood Community Center.

In appropriate NBA Development League fashion, the Charge added the high-scoring Akognon for the final week of the season. They hope the 5-foot-11 shooting guard fills a scoring void left by the loss of Alan Anderson to the NBA last week.

The Charge, who entered Monday sitting in the D-League's sixth playoff spot out of eight total, finish the regular season with three games in four nights, starting Wednesday at home against Fort Wayne. Two wins in the final three games by the Charge (26-21) or two losses by Texas clinch a playoff spot for Canton.

'I kind of feed off everybody else's energy,' Akognon, 26, said. 'I can tell the desperation and commitment to the team. So it's kind of easy to fit in right now.'

Akognon just left the playoffs of the Chinese Basketball Association two weeks ago. In 37 games with the DongGuan New Century Leopards, Akognon averaged 28.2 points on 51.0 percent shooting, 3.0 assists and 2.9 rebounds.

'Every night I was going against an Aaron Brooks, a (Stephon) Marbury, a J.R. Smith,' said Akognon, who has played two seasons professionally in China and one in Estonia. '... The competition was great, and I felt like I improved a lot.'

Akognon, which is a Nigerian name pronounced ah-Koy-in, is expected to bring shooting to the Charge offense and form a mighty-mite backcourt with 5-9 point guard T.J. Campbell.

A Northern California native, Akognon went to Washington State for two years before transferring to Cal State-Fullerton, where he scored 1,411 points in just two seasons. He was the Big West Player of the Year his senior season of 2008-09 when he averaged 23.9 points, which ranked eighth in the nation.

'Great kid,' Charge coach Alex Jensen said. 'He fits in with our guys well. It's just a matter of you never quite know how he's going to assimilate. But he's a very gifted player. High skill level. Good shooter and scorer.'

To make room for Akognon, the Charge injury-waived forward Shane Edwards, who injured an ankle during Friday's loss at Austin. The Charge retain his rights.

Courtesy of www.cantonrep.com


Stefhon Hannah named Performer of the Week - by Eurobasket News

Stefhon Hannah (6'1''-G-85, college: Missouri), a guard for the Dakota Wizards, was today named NBA Development League Performer of the Week for games played March 26-April 1. The honor is the first of Hannah's career.

Hannah (6-1, 175, Missouri) led the Wizards to a 3-0 record last week, averaging 28.7 points, 6.7 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 34.3 minutes. He shot 58 percent from the floor and 47 percent from three-point range, while hitting 100 percent (8-of-8) of his free throws. He began the week on March 26 with a 37-point outing in a 99-76 win over the Erie BayHawks, before finishing with a 27-point, 11-rebound performance in a 109-89 win over the Texas Legends on March 29.

In 25 games, 23 starts, for the Wizards this season, Hannah is averaging 18.4 points, 4.6 assists, 3.7 rebounds and 31.5 minutes. He has scored in double figures 19 times, including an NBA D-League career-high 43 points in a 119-111 win over the Reno Bighorns on March 17, when he shot 13-of-18 from the floor and connected on 8-of-10 from beyond the arc.

Other top performers considered included Austin's Eric Dawson, who averaged 21.0 points and 11.0 rebounds in two games; Bakersfield's Jeremy Wise, who averaged 15.0 points and 6.7 assists in two games; Canton's Luke Harangody, who averaged 22.5 points and 18.5 rebounds in two games on assignment from the Cleveland Cavaliers; Erie's Joey Graham, who averaged 19.8 points and 7.3 rebounds in four games; Idaho's Marcus Banks, who averaged 20.5 points and 2.0 rebounds in two games; Iowa's Mike Efevberha, who averaged 23.0 points and 5.3 rebounds in four games; Los Angeles' Elijah Millsap, who averaged 20.0 points and 7.3 rebounds in three games; Maine's Morris Almond, who averaged 29.0 points and 7.0 rebounds in two games; Rio Grande Valley's Malcolm Thomas, who averaged 19.0 points and 11.5 rebounds in two games on assignment from the Houston Rockets; Reno's Antoine Wright, who averaged 21.0 points and 6.0 rebounds in two games; Springfield's Jeff Foote, who averaged 14.3 points and 9.3 rebounds in four games; Sioux Falls' Trey Gilder, who averaged 23.0 points and 7.0 rebounds in two games, and Tulsa's Jerome Dyson, who averaged 20.7 points and 5.0 assists in three games.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com


Dakota beats Jam, clinches playoff berth - by Eurobasket News

For most of the season, the question was whether the Dakota Wizards were good enough to make the D-League playoffs.

A more appropriate question now is whether theyre good enough to be D-League champions.

The Wizards looked the part Monday, clinching a postseason berth with an impressive 111-92 win over the Bakersfield Jam.

The Wizards (27-20) have now won seven of their last eight games and pulled into a tie for first place in the East Conference.

Weve got three games left, and we just want to keep on playing our game, said Wizards guard Stefhon Hannah, who had 24 points and 11 assists. Its Wizards basketball boxing out, rebounding the ball and keep sharing the ball. If we do that, everything else will fall in place.

The D-League standings are so tight the Wizards could still easily drop to seventh.

But right now they are in a dead heat with Springfield atop the East. Their final three games are against the two teams with the worst records in the

D-League at home against Sioux Falls tonight, then two in Fort Wayne.

The East Conference champ will get the No. 2 seed, behind West winner Los Angeles, which has the best overall record.

We clinched tonight, but its so big to finish the regular season strong, Wizards coach Nate Bjorkgren said. Theres a big difference between a two seed and a five seed.

We want homecourt advantage for as long as we can.

The Wizards nearly led wire-to-wire, but there were some anxious moments in the third.

Edwin Ubiles had the hot hand early, scoring 13 of his 15 points in the first quarter. That helped Dakota build an advantage that reached 13 points in the first half.

But Bakersfield made a run, taking its first lead of the game (64-63) when Travis Leslie scored on a lob with 5:48 to go in the third. The teams traded the lead once more before the

Wizards went ahead for good. But it wasnt until a few minutes later that the Wizards went for the throat.

Dakota went on a 15-0 run over the last 2:31 of the third period, blowing the lead out to 88-71.

After lay-ups by Tommy Smith and Hannah, Taylor Griffin (6'8''-F-86, college: Oklahoma) hit a 3-pointer. Then the Wizards guards took over. Baker hit a long 2 and followed it up with a three-point play.

Then with time winding down in the quarter, Hannah lost the ball, chased it down at halfcourt and swished a 3 at the buzzer.

Our guys just started being more aggressive and attacking off made and missed baskets, Bjorkgren said. Then they started spreading it around.

When a team is really in attack mode, its tough to slow down, because the players are so good.

Hannah, who had been named the D-League performer of the week earlier in the day, has developed a lethal chemistry with Baker. The veteran point guard complemented Hannah with 21 points on 9-for-11 shooting and six rebounds.

Were both point guards, and its like pick your poison, Hannah said. He can bring it up. I can bring it up. He can shoot the ball. I can shoot the ball.

The way were playing right now, its so unselfish, its scary.

That resulted in plenty of big dunks for Chris Wright (6'8''-F-88, college: Dayton). The rookie forward, on assignment from the Golden State Warriors, had 19 points and six rebounds. Griffin scored 11, while Marcus Dove (6'9''-F-85, college: Oklahoma St.) contributed 10 points and 11 rebounds.

The Jam was led by Trey Johnson (6'5''-G-84, college: Jackson St.), who came off the bench to score 16 points. Long-time former Wizard Renaldo Major (6'7''-F-82, agency: Edge Sports, college: Fresno St.) chipped in 10.

With a playoff berth secured, the Wizards can now turn their focus squarely on winning the conference.

Its been addressed since Day 1 thats been the goal, Bjorkgren said. If you attack that goal, then other things can happen.

Courtesy of http://bismarcktribune.com


*****************************************************
  DR CONGO   


Bismack Biyombo selected the top Congolese playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

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

Bismack Biyombo
Bismack Biyombo
   #1. This week's number one is an international center Bismack Biyombo (207-92), who plays in the NBA. Biyombo could not help the Charlotte Bobcats (7-43) in their last game. Despite his good performance the Charlotte Bobcats were edged in an overtime 110-107 on the road by the Detroit Pistons. Biyombo recorded 10 points in 34 minutes on the court. It was Bobcats' seventh consecutive loss in a row. It's Biyombo's first season with the team. This year he averages: 4.6ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.8bpg, 2FGP: 45.7% and FT: 46.2% in the 47 games he played so far. Despite Biyombo played previously for the French national team, he is currently a member of the DR Congolese senior national team.

Bambale Osby
Bambale Osby
   #2. Second place goes to an international power forward Bambale Osby (203-86, college: Maryland). He was the major contributor in an overtime Aix-Maurienne's victory against the eighth-ranked Bordeaux (15-13) 116-108 in the French ProB (second division) in Friday night's game. Osby recorded a double-double by scoring 24 points and getting 13 rebounds. He also added 3 assists. Aix-Maurienne Savoie Basket (18-10) is placed fourth in the ProB. Osby is ranked ninth on the list of the top scorers in the league and also on the list of best rebounders (fourth place). He has individually a very good season with high stats. Osby averages: 15.6ppg, 9.6rpg, 1.2apg, 1.4bpg, 2FGP: 60.3%(173-287) and FT: 55.9%. He is a naturalized American. Worth to mention Osby played also at Eurobasket Summer League, which helped him get the job in pro basketball. Despite Osby played previously for the USA national team, he is currently a member of the DR Congolese senior national team. Strangely Osby has never played in DR Congo.

Charles Kahudi
Charles Kahudi
   #3. The DR Congolese player who performed third best last week abroad was an international forward Charles Kahudi (197-86, agency: Beo Basket). He contributed to a Le Mans' victory against the 13th-ranked Poitiers (8-16) 83-75 in the French ProA last Saturday. Kahudi scored 9 points, had 5 rebounds and dished 3 assists in 27 minutes. Le Mans Sarthe Basket (16-8) is placed fifth in the ProA. It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row. Kahudi has relatively good stats this year: 11.4ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.3apg, 2FGP: 43.0%, 3FGP: 39.8% and FT: 81.8% in the 22 games. He has a dual citizenship: DR Congolese and French. Despite Kahudi played previously for the French national team, he is currently a member of the DR Congolese senior national team.

Olivier Ilunga
Olivier Ilunga
   #4. Guard Olivier Ilunga (185-84) was not able to help one of league's weakest teams 08 Stockholm (3-3) in their game against Norrkoping Dolphins (23-13) in the Swedish Basketligan. Ilunga recorded 8 points, 5 rebounds and 8 assists. 08 Stockholm was defeated 92-80 in Norrkoping by the second-ranked Dolphins. Ilunga's overall stats this season are: 8.3ppg, 2.9rpg and 3.3apg. He is another player who holds two passports: DR Congolese and Swedish. Despite Ilunga played previously for the Swedish national team, he is currently in the DR Congolese national team roster.

Wen Boss Mukubu
Wen Boss Mukubu
   #5. Former international swingman Wen Boss Mukubu (198-83, agency: SportsTalent, college: UAB) was not able to secure a victory for VOO Verviers-Pepinster (4-19) in their game against Antwerp Giants (16-7) in the Belgian D1. Mukubu scored 6 points and grabbed 6 rebounds in 28 minutes. The bottom-ranked VOO Verviers-Pepinster lost 62-77 in Antwerp to the second-ranked Giants. It was VOO Verviers-Pepinster's third consecutive loss in a row. Mukubu is currently seventh on the list of best rebounders and also on the list of most steals (third place). This year his overall stats are: 9.6ppg, 6.1rpg, 1.4apg and 2.1spg in the 13 games. Mukubu has both DR Congolese and Belgian nationalities. Despite he played previously for the Belgian national team, Mukubu is currently in the DR Congolese national team roster.

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

   #1. Judson Wallace (205-F/C-82, college: Princeton) contributed to a Regal FC Barcelona's victory against the sixth-ranked Valencia Basket (15-12) 76-72 in the Spanish ACB in Sunday night's game. He scored 9 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in only 13 minutes. Regal FC Barcelona (22-5) is placed first in the ACB. It was his team's third consecutive victory in a row. This year Wallace averages: 5.1ppg and 4.2rpg in the 22 games he played so far. He is a naturalized American. Strangely Wallace has never played in DR Congo.

   #2. Yannick Bokolo (190-G-85) helped Gravelines-Dunkerque edge the tenth-ranked Strasbourg IG (10-14) 66-65 in the French ProA last Saturday. He scored 9 points and grabbed 5 rebounds. BCM Gravelines Dunkerque Grand Littoral (21-3) is placed first in the ProA. It was his team's sixth consecutive victory in a row. It's Bokolo's fourth season with the team. This year Bokolo averages: 8.6ppg, 3.4rpg, 2.8apg and 1.4spg. He has a dual citizenship: DR Congolese and French. Despite Bokolo's DR Congolese passport, he currently plays for the French national team and is not eligible to play for the DR Congolese team.

Other top DR Congolese players, who play abroad:

Igor Ibaka (203-F/C-92) plays for Assignia Manresa in Spanish ACB
Bienvenue Letuni (227-C-94) plays for FIATC Joventut in Spanish ACB
Kevin Tumba (192-F/G-91) plays for Belfius Mons-Hainaut in Belgian D1
Ken Bongo Nsoli (204-C/F-91) plays for Poitiers in French ProA
Albert Ngoy (178-G-93) plays for Kapfenberg Bulls in Austrian A Bundesliga
Kris Morlende (182-PG-79) plays for Nantes in French ProB
Samba Oppizzi-Nakalamb (198-F-79) plays for Fribourg in Swiss LNA
Djo Yele (F/C-82) plays for Club Africain in Tunisian D1

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


*****************************************************
  EBA   

Standings

EBA Standings
Northern Division
 1. HV Hype 9-1
 2. New York W. 8-3
 3. NYC Jaguars 0-11
Southern Division
 1. M. All-Stars 8-2
 2. Harrisburg H. 5-5
 3. Winchester S. 5-6
 4. Washington M. 5-6
 5. NoVa Hawks 4-6

Regular Season: Round 14

Apr. 7: NoVa Hawks - M. All-Stars
Apr. 7: Harrisburg H. - NoVa Hawks



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


TOP-6 PLAYERS WHO IMPROVED THEIR STATUS IN EUROLEAGUE PLAYOFFS - by Dimitris Katsionis



Nick Kalathess last year performance against Barcelona was an example of a post season-surprise. Giving some players more responsibilities in this period, is part of coachess game plan. And an unexpected problem for the opponent.. Let's take a look at the role players who shined this season..

No6.) Nathan Jawai (14 ppg-7.3 rpg-18/28 2pt ): Jawai was Pashutins central point at Unicss game plan, in order to present something different against Barcelona. The Russian coach increased Jawais minutes on the court and gave him the green light to take the ball in the paint, use his body and finish strong. The Australian giant responded perfectly against a good defensive frontcourt. This style of offense (low tempo, finish deep in the paint) was the main reason that Unics had a balanced transition defense and Barcelona didnt really manage to run in the open court.

No5.) Kostas Kaimakoglou (9.8 ppg-3.8 rpg-10/19fg-20 per game): He is officially Panathinaikoss best power forward. Kaimakoglou, known as one of the players with the biggest IQ in the Greek league showed his guts hitting crucial shots in the crunch time. With ghosts chasing him (after game 2 and David Blues threes) the Greek forward stepped up and shut down Maccabis deadliest perimeter weapon.

No4.) Devin Smith (14.3 ppg-7.8 rpg-21/41 fg-34.3 per game): Smith is a surprise for Panathinaikoss coaching staff with his ability to hit almost every difficult and important shot. The American forward excelled on defense and offensive boards giving Maccabi a lot of energy being undoubtedly the best small forward in the series. Coach Obradovic must think a lot before putting Saras on Smith again..

No3.) Acie Law (9.3 ppg-2.8 rpg-4.5 apg-1.5 spg-4.0 rcv fouls-22 per game): Laws energy absolutely destroyed Montepaschi at the seriess fourth quarters, giving Ivkovic the opportunity to rest Spanoulis without affecting his teams performance. Laws ability to attack the basket in transition offense gave Olympiakos a big advantage while Pianigianis perimeter defenders just couldnt follow him. The Texas graduate has already won a bigger contract for next year..

No2.) Kyle Hines (14.5 ppg-4.5 rpg-1.5 bpg-3.5 rcv fouls-23/43 fg-22.8 per game) : Hines was simply a dynamite for Olympiakos in this playoff series. Ivkovic played him at center position position, especially in the fourth quarters. Hines took advantage his speed, power and simply destroyed Montepaschis 'light' frontcourt with his points and offensive boards. Technically, Hiness biggest advantage is his ability to defend in the paint and also stay in front of a quick player in the perimeter. Montepaschis guards just couldnt pass Hines and drive to the rim..

No1.) Yogev Ohayon (9.8 ppg-4.5 rpg-3.3 apg-1.8 spg-26.3 per game): Ohayon was Blatts answer in Panathinaikos press defense. The 24 year old guard is probably Maccabis more energetic player and his speed, explosiveness (great first step) and slashing ability gave to Keith Langford an ideal partner in the backcourt. Its obvious that this playoff series can change Ohayons career, just like Kalathes last year..Blatt found a quality guard for next year's team and Obradovic a big problem to solve.


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

Standings - ProA

ProA Standings
 1. Gravelines 21-3 
 2. Chalon 20-4 
 3. Orleans 17-8 
 4. Nancy 16-8 
 5. Le Mans 16-8 
 6. Paris-Levallois 15-9 
 7. Roanne 12-12 
 8. Cholet 11-13 
 9. Dijon 11-14 
 10. Strasbourg 10-14 
 11. Nanterre 10-14 
 12. ASVEL 10-14 
 13. Poitiers 8-16 
 14. Le Havre 8-16 
 15. Pau-Lacq-Orthez 6-18 
 16. Hyeres-Toulon 2-22 

Regular Season: Round 25

Apr. 3: Orleans - Dijon 82-55
Apr. 6: ASVEL - Hyeres-Toulon
Apr. 6: Chalon - Nanterre
Apr. 7: Le Havre - Strasbourg
Apr. 7: Poitiers - Paris-Levallois
Apr. 7: Le Mans - Cholet
Apr. 6: Gravelines - Nancy
Apr. 7: Pau-Lacq-Orthez - Roanne


Stats Leaders - ProA

Points Per Game
 Eric CHATFIELD
  Paris-.
  (191-G-79)
  Avg: 20.4
 1. Chatfield, Paris-.20.4 
 2. Rochestie, Le Mans18.3 
 3. Williams, Paris-.17.2 
 4. Hamilton, Paris-.17.1 
 5. Gipson, Pau-Lacq.17.0 
 6. Causeur, Cholet16.2 
 7. Cox, Le Havre15.8 
 8. Schilb, Chalon15.3 
 9. Delaney, Chalon15.2 
 10. Wise, Le Havre15.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Chinemelu ELONU
  Pau-Lacq.
  (206-F/C-87)
  Avg: 8.3
 1. Elonu, Pau-Lacq.8.3 
 2. Hamilton, Paris-.8.3 
 3. Akingbala, Nancy7.6 
 4. Greer, Strasbourg7.4 
 5. Nsonwu-Amadi, Roa.7.2 
 6. Aminu, Chalon7.1 
 7. Armstrong, AS.6.9 
 8. Vebobe, Cholet6.6 
 9. Falker, Cholet6.5 
 10. Labeyrie, Hyeres-.6.5 
Assists Per Game
 Kareem REID
  Hyeres-Toulon
  (178-PG-75)
  Avg: 7.5
 1. Reid, Hyeres-Toulon7.5 
 2. Rochestie, Le Mans6.4 
 3. Wise, Le Havre5.6 
 4. Linehan, Nancy5.4 
 5. Pellin, Orleans5.2 
 6. Dixon, Dijon4.9 
 7. Barrett, Roanne4.9 
 8. Schilb, Chalon4.7 
 9. Gipson, Pau-Lacq.4.6 
 10. Tchicamboud, Cha.4.1 
Steals Per Game
 Andrew ALBICY
  Gravelines
  (178-PG-90)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Albicy, Gravelines2.5 
 2. Linehan, Nancy2.0 
 3. Wise, Le Havre2.0 
 4. Riley, Nanterre1.9 
 5. Pellin, Orleans1.9 
 6. Melody, Dijon1.7 
 7. Acker, Le Mans1.7 
 8. Shuler, Nancy1.6 
 9. Dixon, Dijon1.6 
 10. Fournier, Poitiers1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Randal FALKER
  Cholet
  (201-F-85)
  Avg: 1.3
 1. Falker, Cholet1.3 
 2. Gobert, Cholet1.3 
 3. Akingbala, Nancy1.2 
 4. Elonu, Pau-Lacq.1.1 
 5. Issa, Gravelines1.0 
 6. Akpomedah, Grave.1.0 
 7. Williams, Paris-.1.0 
 8. Hamilton, Paris-.1.0 
 9. Jackson, Roanne0.9 
 10. Samnick, Nancy0.8 


Standings - N1

NM1 Standings
 1. Charleville 22-7 
 2. St Quentin 22-7 
 3. Orchy 21-8 
 4. Souffel 21-8 
 5. Roche 20-9 
 6. Blois 19-10 
 7. Cognac 18-11 
 8. Sorgues 16-13 
 9. Brest 15-14 
 10. Lievin 14-15 
 11. Angers BC 49 14-15 
 12. Challans 14-15 
 13. Rueil 13-16 
 14. Chartres 12-17 
 15. Clermont 8-21 
 16. Montbrison 6-23 
 17. Le Puy 4-25 
 18. CFBB 2-27 

Regular Season: Round 29

Apr. 3: St Quentin - Angers BC 49 88-79
Apr. 3: Blois - Cognac 83-82
Apr. 3: Roche - Sorgues 83-75
Apr. 3: Rueil - Brest 81-64
Apr. 3: Orchy - Lievin 77-64
Apr. 3: Clermont - Montbrison 69-84
Apr. 3: Challans - Chartres 65-90
Apr. 3: Le Puy - Souffel 57-92
Apr. 3: CFBB - Charleville 56-89


Stats Leaders - N1

Points Per Game
 Ville KAUNISTO
  Blois
  (204-F-82)
  Avg: 18.7
 1. Kaunisto, Blois18.7 
 2. Bigote, Cognac17.4 
 3. Petrovic, Orchy17.1 
 4. Pridotkas, Brest17.0 
 5. Pearson, Angers B.16.6 
 6. Almanson, Challans16.5 
 7. Bluntt, Orchy16.0 
 8. Thomas, Roche15.9 
 9. Herard, Challans15.9 
 10. Belser, Charlevil.15.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Ville KAUNISTO
  Blois
  (204-F-82)
  Avg: 11.8
 1. Kaunisto, Blois11.8 
 2. Jaiteh, CFBB10.1 
 3. Caskill, Cognac9.9 
 4. Pearson, Angers B.9.0 
 5. Sanborn, Lievin8.2 
 6. Avramovic, Chart.8.0 
 7. Pridotkas, Brest7.9 
 8. Toney, Charleville7.8 
 9. Cabarkapa, Rueil7.8 
 10. McClark, Clermont7.7 
Assists Per Game
 Johan RATHIEUVILLE
  Brest
  (177-G-85)
  Avg: 6.5
 1. Rathieuville, Brest6.5 
 2. Calvez, Charleville5.2 
 3. Daube, Le Puy4.9 
 4. Tillon, Montbrison4.8 
 5. Godin, Cognac4.7 
 6. Brochard, Blois4.5 
 7. Ball, St Quentin4.5 
 8. Barbry, Orchy4.4 
 9. Dessart, Lievin4.2 
 10. Berquier, Chartres4.1 
Steals Per Game
 Aurelien TOTO N''KOTE
  Roche
  (194-F-79)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Toto N''Kote, Roche2.3 
 2. Calvez, Charleville2.2 
 3. Pistre, Charleville2.1 
 4. Bichard, St Quentin1.8 
 5. Ball, St Quentin1.8 
 6. Davis, Blois1.7 
 7. Dessart, Lievin1.7 
 8. Daube, Le Puy1.7 
 9. Merie, Chartres1.6 
 10. Godin, Cognac1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Jacques ALINGUE
  Souffel
  (201-F-88)
  Avg: 1.7
 1. Alingue, Souffel1.7 
 2. Caskill, Cognac1.5 
 3. N''Diaye, Souffel1.5 
 4. Davis, Blois1.4 
 5. Sanborn, Lievin1.4 
 6. Morin, CFBB1.3 
 7. Diame, Rueil1.3 
 8. Traore, Angers B.1.2 
 9. Ipouck, Chartres1.0 
 10. Tornato, Blois1.0 


NM1 Round 29: Blois beat Cognac by one after a very close game - 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.

The most exciting game of round 29 in the NM1 took place in Blois. This derby game ended with only one-point defeat on the road of 6th ranked Cognac (18-11) to seventh ranked Blois (19-10) 83-82 in the game for the sixth place. Cognac was trailing by 7 points at halftime but managed to get 4-point lead after three quarters before a 25-20 charge of Blois, which allowed them to win the game. They dominated down low during the game scoring 56 of its points in the paint compared to Cognac's 36. Finnish forward Ville Kaunisto (204-82) saved the victory with a double-double by scoring 25 points and 12 rebounds. American forward Daviin Davis (193-85, college: Weber St.) contributed with 31 points and 4 steals for the winners. American center Ian Caskill (207-81, college: JMU) answered with 19 points and 8 rebounds for Cognac. Blois moved-up to sixth place. Newly promoted Cognac dropped to the seventh position with 11 games lost. Blois are looking forward to face Angers BC 49 (#11) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Cognac will play against Orchesien BC (#3) in Orchies and is hoping to win this game.
NM1 top team - Charleville-Mezieres (22-7) had no problems winning another game. This time they crushed eighteenth ranked CFBB (2-27) in Paris 89-56. American forward Corey Belser (200-82, college: San Diego) stepped up and scored 22 points for the winners and Tafari Toney chipped in 15 points and 6 rebounds. Forward Damien Inglis (198-95) responded with 14 points and 6 rebounds. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Charleville-Mezieres maintains first place with 22-7 record, which they share with St Quentin. CFBB lost twelfth consecutive game. They stay dead last with 27 lost games. Charleville-Mezieres will play against Stade Clermont (#15) at home in the next round which should be another easy win for them. CFBB will play against Sorgues and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Worth to mention about the upset in a game between Etendard de Brest (15-14) and Rueil (13-16), which took place in Rueil. Higher ranked Etendard de Brest lost to thirteenth ranked Rueil in a road game 64-81 on Tuesday. Karim Gourari nailed 9 points, 12 rebounds and 6 assists for the winning side. Rueil's coach Julien Hervy used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Vaidotas Pridotkas came up with 13 points and 8 rebounds for Etendard de Brest in the defeat. Rueil have a solid series of three victories in a row. Newly promoted Rueil maintains thirteenth place with 13-16 record. Etendard de Brest at the other side keeps the ninth position with 14 games lost. Rueil will meet higher ranked Souffelweyersheim (#4) in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Etendard de Brest will play against Vendee Challans (#12) and hope to secure a win.
The game between 17th ranked Le Puy ASMB (4-25) and fourth ranked Souffelweyersheim (21-8) in Le Puy en Velay ended with biggest points difference. Guests from Souffel. outscored Le Puy ASMB 92-57. The best player for the winners was Abdoulaye N'Diaye who scored 17 points and 9 rebounds. Souffelweyersheim have an impressive series of five victories in a row. They moved-up to third place, which they share with Orchy. Le Puy ASMB lost thirteenth consecutive game. They keep the seventeenth position with 25 games lost. Souffelweyersheim's next round opponent will be Rueil (#13) at home and are hoping to win another game. Le Puy ASMB will play against Lievin Basket (#10).

There were no big surprises in other games of round 29: Chartres smashed Challans on the road 90-65. Orchy won against Lievin on its own court 77-64. Sorgues unfortunately lost to Roche in a road game 75-83. Clermont recorded a loss to Montbrison at home 69-84. Angers BC 49 was defeated by St Quentin on the opponent's court 88-79.

Challans - Chartres 65-90

There was a small surprise when fourteenth ranked Chartres (12-17) crushed on the road 12th ranked Vendee Challans (14-15) 90-65. The game was mostly controlled by Chartres. Vendee Challans was better in second period 19-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Chartres forced 21 Vendee Challans turnovers. 25 personal fouls committed by Vendee Challans helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was forward Guillaume Merie (198-83) who scored 21 points and 7 assists. Serbian center Ljubomir Avramovic (201-79) chipped in 14 points and 9 rebounds. Five Chartres players scored in double figures. Forward Fabien Herard (198-79) produced 18 points and 6 rebounds and American forward Josh Almanson (205-82, college: Bowling Green) added 12 points respectively for the hosts. Vendee Challans' coach gave up on the game allowing to play ten players seeing no chance for a win. Newly promoted Chartres maintains fourteenth place with 12-17 record. Vendee Challans lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the tenth position with 15 games lost. Chartres' next round opponent will be higher ranked Roche (#5) at home and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
Top scorers:
Chartres: G.Merie 21+4reb+7ast, L.Avramovic 14+9reb+3ast, M.Ipouck 14+5reb+1ast, A.Razafindrabe 14+1reb+5ast, M.Vasic 12+2reb, Z.Bojovic 8+4reb+1ast
Challans: F.Herard 18+6reb+2ast, J.Almanson 12+2reb+1ast, S.Cherasse 9+1reb, J.Geay 8+1reb+4ast, G.Renon 7+2reb, R.Boissie 6+3reb+1ast
gschID: 147170


Orchy - Lievin 77-64

Very expected game when 10th ranked Lievin Basket (14-15) lost to third ranked Orchesien BC (21-8) in Orchies 64-77. The game was mostly controlled by Orchesien BC. Lievin Basket was better in second period 15-13. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Orchesien BC forced 23 Lievin Basket turnovers. The best player for the winners was swingman David Cilly (196-81) who had a double-double by scoring 15 points and 10 rebounds. American guard Jahsha Bluntt (198-84, college: Delaware St., agency: David Lee services) chipped in 21 points and 5 rebounds. Forward Aude Pierre-Joseph (194-79) produced 17 points and 6 rebounds and American center Tyler Sanborn (209-88, college: Guilford, agency: Strategic Sports) added 10 points respectively for the guests. Both coaches used bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Orchesien BC maintains third place with 21-8 record behind leader Charleville, which they share with Souffel. Lievin Basket lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the tenth position with 15 games lost. Orchesien BC's next round opponent will be Cognac (#7) on the road. Lievin Basket will play against Le Puy ASMB in Le Puy en Velay.
Top scorers:
Orchy: J.Bluntt 21+5reb+1ast, D.Petrovic 21+3reb+1ast, D.Cilly 15+10reb+2ast, J.Verbeke 9+3reb+1ast, R.Malet 9+1reb+5ast, A.Belkessa 2+2ast
Lievin: A.Pierre-Joseph 17+6reb+1ast, V.Mendy 11+4reb, T.Sanborn 10+4reb+2ast, J.Dessart 6+6reb, V.Lehut 6+2ast, M.Hachi 5+7reb
gschID: 147171


Rueil - Brest 81-64

Worth to mention about the upset in a game between Etendard de Brest (15-14) and Rueil (13-16), which took place in Rueil. Higher ranked Etendard de Brest lost to thirteenth ranked Rueil in a road game 64-81 on Tuesday. The hosts trailed by 1 point after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 8-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 81-64. Rueil outrebounded Etendard de Brest 49-33 including a 21-9 advantage in offensive rebounds. Forward Karim Gourari (195-89) nailed 9 points, 12 rebounds and 6 assists for the winning side and Georgian center Georges Mdivani (205-85) accounted for 15 points and 9 rebounds. Rueil's coach Julien Hervy used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Lithuanian forward Vaidotas Pridotkas (200-84) came up with 13 points and 8 rebounds and Spanish center Rafael Lopez (204-86) added 11 points and 7 rebounds respectively for Etendard de Brest in the defeat. Rueil have a solid series of three victories in a row. Newly promoted Rueil maintains thirteenth place with 13-16 record. Etendard de Brest at the other side keeps the ninth position with 14 games lost. Rueil will meet higher ranked Souffelweyersheim (#4) in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Etendard de Brest will play against Vendee Challans (#12) and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Rueil: G.Mdivani 15+9reb+1ast, C.Mansare 14+2reb+1ast, K.Gourari 9+12reb+6ast, M.Niakate 8+3reb+2ast, M.Diame 8+7reb+1ast, G.Duro 8+7reb
Brest: Z.Alao 13+1reb+2ast, V.Pridotkas 13+8reb+1ast, R.Lopez 11+7reb, B.Vounang 8+3reb, J.Doreau 7+7reb+1ast, C.Eleka 7+2reb
gschID: 147172


Blois - Cognac 83-82

The most exciting game of round 29 in the NM1 took place in Blois. This derby game ended with only one-point defeat on the road of 6th ranked Cognac (18-11) to seventh ranked Blois (19-10) 83-82 in the game for the sixth place. Cognac was trailing by 7 points at halftime but managed to get 4-point lead after three quarters before a 25-20 charge of Blois, which allowed them to win the game. They dominated down low during the game scoring 56 of its points in the paint compared to Cognac's 36. Finnish forward Ville Kaunisto (204-82) saved the victory with a double-double by scoring 25 points and 12 rebounds. American forward Daviin Davis (193-85, college: Weber St.) contributed with 31 points and 4 steals for the winners. American center Ian Caskill (207-81, college: JMU) answered with 19 points and 8 rebounds and guard Mathieu Bigote (187-84) added 24 points in the effort for Cognac. Four Cognac players scored in double figures. Blois moved-up to sixth place. Newly promoted Cognac dropped to the seventh position with 11 games lost. Blois are looking forward to face Angers BC 49 (#11) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Cognac will play against Orchesien BC (#3) in Orchies and is hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
Blois: D.Davis 31+4reb+3ast, V.Kaunisto 25+12reb+2ast, T.Sani 8+2reb+2ast, J.Tornato 6+8reb+3ast, P.Brochard 5+1reb+4ast, B.Recoura 4+2ast
Cognac: M.Bigote 24+2reb+2ast, I.Caskill 19+8reb+2ast, C.Bertorelle 14+2ast, S.Doucoure 10+7reb+2ast, I.Saounera 6+1reb+1ast, N.Kaczmarow 4+4reb
gschID: 147167


Le Puy - Souffel 57-92

The game between 17th ranked Le Puy ASMB (4-25) and fourth ranked Souffelweyersheim (21-8) in Le Puy en Velay ended with biggest points difference. Guests from Souffel. outscored Le Puy ASMB 92-57. It looked good early as Le Puy ASMB took an 6-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Souffelweyersheim had a 28-8 second period charge getting the lead and Le Puy ASMB was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 57-92. Souffelweyersheim shot 61.1 percent from the field and made 17-of-20 charity shots (85.0 percent) during the game. Souffelweyersheim outrebounded Le Puy ASMB 36-25 including a 28-15 advantage in defensive rebounds. It was a great shooting night for Souffelweyersheim especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 60.0 percentage. The best player for the winners was Senegalese power forward Abdoulaye N'Diaye (210-84, college: USC) who scored 17 points and 9 rebounds. Naturalized Chadian forward Jacques Alingue (201-88) chipped in a double-double by scoring 15 points and 12 rebounds. Five Souffelweyersheim players scored in double figures. Forward Yohann Smail (197-90) produced 17 points and 8 rebounds and center Steeve Borval (202-87) added 15 points and 6 rebounds respectively for the hosts. Souffelweyersheim have an impressive series of five victories in a row. They moved-up to third place, which they share with Orchy. Le Puy ASMB lost thirteenth consecutive game. They keep the seventeenth position with 25 games lost. Souffelweyersheim's next round opponent will be Rueil (#13) at home and are hoping to win another game. Le Puy ASMB will play against Lievin Basket (#10).
Top scorers:
Souffel: J.Tschamber 17+3ast, A.N'Diaye 17+9reb+3ast, M.M'Bodji 15+2reb+3ast, J.Alingue 15+12reb+1ast, F.Broliron 13+4reb+2ast, J.Bach 5+3reb+2ast
Le Puy: Y.Smail 17+8reb+1ast, S.Borval 15+6reb+2ast, M.Gotagni 14+3reb+1ast, G.Sene 7+3reb+4ast, A.Daube 2+2reb+9ast, R.Martin 2+3reb
gschID: 147168


Roche - Sorgues 83-75

Rather predictable result when fifth ranked Roche (20-9) won against at home 8th ranked Sorgues (16-13) 83-75. The victory was the fifth consecutive win for Roche. They maintain fifth place with 20-9 record. Sorgues at the other side keeps the eighth position with 13 games lost. Roche's next round opponent will be Chartres (#14) on the road and are hoping to win another game. Sorgues will play against CFBB (#18) in Paris.
gschID: 147169


CFBB - Charleville 56-89

NM1 top team - Charleville-Mezieres (22-7) had no problems winning another game. This time they crushed eighteenth ranked CFBB (2-27) in Paris 89-56. It looked good early as CFBB took an 2-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Charleville-Mezieres had a 18-11 second period charge getting the lead and CFBB was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 56-89. Charleville-Mezieres dominated on the defensive end, holding CFBB to just 5 points in third quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 68 of its points in the paint compared to CFBB's 26. Charleville-Mezieres forced 29 CFBB turnovers. American forward Corey Belser (200-82, college: San Diego) stepped up and scored 22 points for the winners and American-British power forward Tafari Toney (203-86, agency: JEMsports) chipped in 15 points and 6 rebounds. Four Charleville-Mezieres players scored in double figures. Forward Damien Inglis (198-95) responded with 14 points and 6 rebounds and power forward Yannis Morin (206-93) scored 14 points and 6 rebounds. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Charleville-Mezieres maintains first place with 22-7 record, which they share with St Quentin. CFBB lost twelfth consecutive game. They stay dead last with 27 lost games. Charleville-Mezieres will play against Stade Clermont (#15) at home in the next round which should be another easy win for them. CFBB will play against Sorgues and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Charleville: C.Belser 22+4reb+3ast, T.Toney 15+6reb, D.Pistre 12+3reb+4ast, F.Calvez 10+1reb+5ast, C.Guillarme 10+5reb, N.Boundy 8+8reb
CFBB: D.Inglis 14+6reb+2ast, Y.Morin 14+6reb, O.Yao-Delon 11+3reb, P.Rigot 5+1reb, L.Paoletti 4+5reb, E.Ory 3+1reb+2ast
gschID: 147164


Clermont - Montbrison 69-84

We cannot really consider it an upset in the game between close teams when 15th ranked Stade Clermont (8-21) lost at home to sixteenth ranked Montbrison (6-23) 84-69. The game was mostly controlled by Montbrison. Stade Clermont was better in fourth quarter 25-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Stade Clermont 42-31 including 29 on the defensive glass. The best player for the winners was guard Benjamin Tillon (189-85) who scored 19 points and 8 assists. Forward Regis Aubry (199-82) chipped in a double-double by scoring 14 points and 11 rebounds. Four Montbrison players scored in double figures. Montbrison's coach Marc Berjoan allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Forward Jonathan Beugnot (201-83, college: Clayton St.) produced 22 points and swingman Xavier Delarue (196-77) added 13 points and 7 rebounds respectively for the hosts. Newly promoted Montbrison maintains sixteenth place with 6-23 record. Stade Clermont lost their sixth game in a row. They keep the fifteenth position with 21 games lost. Montbrison's next round opponent will be league's second-placed Saint-Quentin at home and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
Top scorers:
Montbrison: B.Tillon 19+3reb+8ast, G.Filet 15+3reb+2ast, R.Aubry 14+11reb, K.Mondesir 12+4reb+1ast, F.Giraud 9+3reb+1ast, C.Pegon 6+6reb+3ast
Clermont: J.Beugnot 22+4reb+2ast, X.Delarue 13+7reb, M.Jackson 9+10reb, B.Matanga 9+1ast, M.Diakite 8+4reb, S.Naydenov 3+2reb
gschID: 147165


St Quentin - Angers BC 49 88-79

Everything went according to plan when second ranked Saint-Quentin (22-7) defeated at home 11th ranked Angers BC 49 (14-15) 88-79. Angers BC 49 was ahead by 1 point after three quarters before a 25-15 charge of Saint-Quentin, which allowed them to win the game. They dominated down low during the game scoring 64 of its points in the paint compared to Angers BC 49's 36. The best player for the winners was forward Julien Lesieu (199-83) who scored 20 points and 7 rebounds. American forward Darnell Williams (200-78, college: San Jose St., agency: David Lee services) chipped in a double-double by scoring 16 points and 11 rebounds. point guard Tony Ramphort (176-82) produced 15 points and 8 assists and forward SyPir Traore (204-85) added 24 points (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field) respectively for the guests. Five Saint-Quentin and four Angers BC 49 players scored in double figures. The victory was the fourth consecutive win for Saint-Quentin. They keep a position of league leader, which they share with Charleville. Angers BC 49 at the other side dropped to the tenth place with 15 games lost. Saint-Quentin's next round opponent will be Montbrison (#16) on the road which should be an easy win for them. Angers BC 49 will play against Blois (#6).
Top scorers:
St Quentin: J.Lesieu 20+7reb+2ast, D.Williams 16+11reb+1ast, J.Ball 15+3ast, O.Romain 13+2reb+4ast, K.Howell 11+5reb+1ast, K.Bichard 7+1reb+1ast
Angers BC 49: S.Traore 24+1reb, T.Ramphort 15+3reb+8ast, T.Pearson 12+8reb, P.Drouault 11+1reb+4ast, T.Lonzieme 6+3reb+1ast, O.Sulpice 6+4reb+5ast
gschID: 147166



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

29-year old forward Ville Kaunisto (204-F-82) put on an amazing game in the last round for Blois and receives a Eurobasket.com NM1 Player of the Week award for round 29.
He had a double-double of 25 points and 12 rebounds, while his team edged out Cognac (#7, 18-11) 83-82. Blois is placed at 6th position in French NM1. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Blois will need more victories to improve their 19-10 record. In the team's last game Kaunisto had a remarkable 83.3% from 2-point range. He turned to be Blois' top player in his first season with the team. Kaunisto has impressive league stats. He is league's best scorer averaging so far 18.7ppg and leads league in rebounds with 11.8rpg. Kaunisto is in league's top in and averages solid 58.3% FGP.

Second best performed player last round was Daviin Davis (193-F-85). He is American forward in his first season at Blois. In the last game Davis recorded impressive 31 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists. It was enough for Blois to edge slightly lower-ranked Cognac (#7, 18-11) by 1 point 83-82. This victory allowed Blois to move up to 6th position in the standings. His team lost some distance to top teams. But 19-10 record is not bad and everything may still change. Davis is a newcomer at Blois and quickly became one of team's most reliable players.

Third place about best performers goes to forward Jacques Alingue (201-F-88) of Souffel (#4). Alingue scored 15 points and grabbed twelve rebounds (!!!). He was a key player of Souffel, leading his team to a 92-57 easy win against the lower-ranked Le Puy (#17, 4-25). Souffel needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 21 victories and 8 lost games. Alingue has a very solid season. In 29 games in France he scored 10.7ppg. He also has 7.0rpg, 1.7bpg and FGP: 58.2%. Jacques Alingue has also French passport and can play in the league with a status of domestic player.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Aurelien Toto N'Kote (194-F-79) of Roche - 17 points, 12 rebounds and 5 assists
5. Corey Belser (200-F-82) of Charleville - 22 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists
6. Darnell Williams (200-F-78) of St Quentin - 16 points and 11 rebounds
7. David Cilly (196-G/F-81) of Orchy - 15 points, 10 rebounds and 2 assists
8. Julien Lesieu (199-F-83) of St Quentin - 20 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Tony Ramphort (176-PG-82) of Angers BC 49 - 15 points, 3 rebounds and 8 assists
10. Regis Aubry (199-F-82) of Montbrison - 14 points and 11 rebounds

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


Kris Morlende strengthens Boulazac - by Eurobasket News

Boulazac bolstered their roster. They inked a contract with Kris Morlende (182-PG-79). The deal is meant for the reminder of the season. The Congolese point guard started the season with Quimper. He averaged 4.3 points, 3.1 assists and 1.3 rebounds per game in ProB. In January Kris Morlende joined Nantes Atlantique. The guard posted 2.0 points per appearance for the team. Previously Kris Morlende had stints with Charleville-Mezieres, Saint-Quentin, Paris Basket Racing, Mulhouse, Rouen, Le Havre, Aix-Maurienne, Golbey, Beauvais, Saint-Brieuc and Le Mans. The guard played in French Cup semis with Golbey-Epinal in 2003. Kris Morlende is expected to debut for Boulazac against Quimper at the weekend.


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


Nemanja Jelesijevic selected MVP of Regular Season - by Eurobasket

Nemanja Jelesijevic (210-C/F-79, agency: World Sport Agency) has had an amazing season and he has been selected the MVP of the Regular Season in the Superleague.
He closed the season with impressive 18.9 ppg and 6.8 rpg.
He started the season at Kumanovo 2009 and in January moved to Fersped-Rabotnicki Skopje. However Fersped-Rabotnicki ended the season on the 6th spot and did not make it to the play-offs (only top 4 teams qualify for the play-offs).
So basically the season is already over for Jelesijevic. 32 years old Serbian power forward / center spent 10 of his professional years playing abroad. He played in total in 17 different clubs and after successful 11-12 season he may be heading for his 18th team.


Feni Industrija eliminates Mornar, completes Final Four picture - by Eurobasket News

Mornar Bar - Feni Industrija 82-83

Feni Industrija is the last team who booked a spot for the Balkan League Final Four. The defending BIBL champion eliminated Mornar Bar tonight after 82-83 road victory. Feni celebrated in Kavadarci in Game One winning the series with perfect 2-0. In the Semifinals, Feni will meet Levski. The Final Four tournament starts on April 21 and other pair is Galil Gilboa - Hapoel Tel Aviv. Feni Indistrija shot 62.0 percent from the field. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 24 assists. 25 personal fouls committed by Mornar Bar helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Serbian center Dusan Knezevic (207-C-80, agency: BeoExcell) scored 20 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists to lead the charge for the winners and Bulgarian swingman Ivan Lilov (196-F/G-88) chipped in 21 points and 5 assists (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) during the contest. Ivan Jelenic (190-SG-85, agency: BeoExcell) responded with 24 points and 6 assists and American forward Mike Singletary (198-F-88, college: Texas Tech) scored 14 points and 5 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. The Final Four Tournament will be held in Israeli city Gan Ner - Galil Gilboa's home court.

Feni Indistrija: I.Lilov 21+1reb+5ast, D.Knezevic 20+7reb+5ast, K.Nikolovski 13+4reb+1ast, J.Frye 13+4reb+7ast, D.Sokolov 7+3reb+1ast, D.Radulovic 3
Mornar Bar: I.Jelenic 24+6ast, M.Singletary 14+5reb+3ast, N.Ivanovic 13+2reb+3ast, L.Radosavljevic 11+4reb+1ast, M.Sarajlija 5+1ast, F.Barovic 4+9reb


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


The Mitteldeutscher BC Give Silvano Poropat Contract Extension Until 2015 - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber


Even though the Mitteldeutscher BC mission of returning to the Beko BBL hasnt been completed yet, management showed heightened trust in headcoach Silvano Poropat (agency: FCM ) by keeping him on board until 2015. The croatian coach who first shined on the German basketball map forming a playoff team in the 2006-2007 season with EnBW Ludwigsburg will see how much further success he can bring the small eastern German city in the next years. Poropat brought in very skilled players thiss eason and led the club to a 23-5 season and now will continue their winning ways in the playoffs. 'The contract extension before the start of the playoffs came form both sides. The tight schedule can always bring surprises, but we are sure that we have made the right decision and will reach our goal of returning back to the Beko BBL. We are honoring the superb work of him and have had a great season and team and will meet our season goal', stressed MBC manager Martin Geissler .

Source: Mitteldeutscher BC


Jerel Allen (BG Goettingen) Basketball Is My Love And Goal In Life - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Jerel Allen (193-G/F-85, college: Florida St.) is a 26 year old 193cm shooting guard/small forward from Detroit, Michigan that is playing for BG Goettingen. He played at Florida State form 2005-2007 with NBA Players Tony Douglas and Al Thornton. In the 2007-2008 season, he played for Neptunas Klaipeda (Lithuania-LKL, starting five): Baltic League: 12 games: 8.8ppg, 2.8rpg, 2.0apg, 0.9spg, 2FGP: 32.4%, 3PT: 27.8%, FT: 61.5%; Lithuanian League: 17 games: 11.5ppg, 3.5rpg, 1.2apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 51.4%, FT: 83.8%, 3PT: 30.2%. In 2008-2009, he played for : SK Dnipro Azot Dnepropetrovsk (Ukraine-UBL, starting five): 38 games: 15.6ppg, 4.6rpg, 2.4apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 40.8%, 3PT: 38.1%, FT: 45.7%. In 2009-2010, he played for Kryvbasbasket-Lux Kryvyi Rih (Ukraine-Superleague), released in May.'10 : 23 games: 8.8ppg, 3.4rpg, 1.1apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 43.4%, 3PT: 31.9%, FT: 73.3%. Last season, he played for the Rockingham Flames (Australia) playing 21games: 21.7ppg, 6.5rpg, 3.1apg, FG: 41.7%. he spoke to eurobasket about his season in Germany.

What was the first thing that you said to Isiah Swann when you saw him on the court in Germany?

I told him that we are going to get this game. I really felt like we could have beat ratiopharm Ulm at home.

How has Isiah Swann developed as a player since Florida State?

He has always been a good shooter. His team likes to play off him. He loves the game so much and he has played exactly how I expected he would in Germany. He is always growing as a player.

You came very late to BG Goettingen. Did you have a feeling that the club was going through hard times when you arrived?

A few days before I signed with BG Goettingen, I had read that they were in last place. I had some fear, but since I have been here I have the hope that we can turn it around.

What was the most difficult thing that you had to get used to in the Beko BBL when you arrived?

There are many American players here. I was used to seeing 2-3 import players per team in the other countries where I have played. It almost feels like I am playing in the States.

Has the Beko BBL been the strongest league that you have played in?

Yes it has. I have played in Lithuania, Ukraine and Australia. The Ukraine league is very competitive and that league grows each season.

How has BG Goettingen improved since you have been there?

I think that from the day I came to the loss against ratiopharm Ulm, we were very close to finding ourselves. Our biggest struggle in the early going was finding our identity, but we have realized now that we are an up tempo team and need to run.

Have you ever played for a last placed team?

I have never played for a last placed team. This has been a new challenge and experience for me.

What is your role in the team?

Coach wants me to shoot the ball, but also just play my game, penetrate and pass the ball. He thinks that I can be an important piece to the team.

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

I think that no one has seen me play to my full ability yet. I am an aggressive player that likes to attack and you will still see me excel at my game.

Your ex coach at Florida State Leonard Hamilton once said that you were one of the hardest workers that he ever had. Where did you get this focus from?


I came from the inner city and there werent many guys from there that had success. My goal in life was always to give 100%. Basketball is my love and goal in life. Whatever a team wants me too do, I will do.

What is the most amazing thing that you have seen Paris Horne do in practice?

Dunking. He is one of the best dunkers in Germany. He should have taken part at the slam dunk contest. I think that not enough people have seen him dunk here.

How has coach Michael Meeks helped you most so far?

He has helped me understand different assignments. Opponents will always put different defense formations and you have to be able to adjust and coach has helped me with that.

Who is your shooting role model?

Boston Celtic Ray Allen.

What do you still need to improve in your game?

I have to learn to make better decisions. I need to know to make a right decision and not an ok decision on the court. I also need to know to be able to see everyone on the court.

Who were your NBA idols as a kid?

Isiah Thomas, Magic Johnson, Michael Jordan and Tim Hardaway.

You and Dashaun Wood are from Detroit, Michigan. Did you know him growing up?

We got a chance to play against each other in high school. He was one of the best players in high school, but I did well against him. I remembered him and he remembered me.

You started your college career at Mott (Njcaa) before going to Florida State. Were you always sure you could play in the NCAA?

I had many offers from NCAA schools, but my grades were down and that is why I had to go to Community College.

What was your fondest memory at Florida State?

Being the first Florida State team to win at Duke.

Who was your best opponent in the NCAA that is in the NBA now?

J J Redick from Duke and Ty Lawson from North Carolina. There were so many good players coming out of the ACC.

How did NBA player Tony Douglas set you up best on the court at Florida State?

He always made great plays. He was a real motor that always found the open guy.

What is your sweetest memory from playing in the Ukraine?

I remember my first season, I played for a team that was in the lower half of the standings, but we fought back making the playoffs. In the playoffs we beat a higher ranked team that had the money. Nobody expected us to win against them.

What were the most number of free throws that you hit in a row in practice?

40.

What was your most crazy shot that you made in a game?

I made a game winning shot in the Ukraine and at Florida State I threw up an ally-op to NBA player Al Thornton, but the pass was so bad that it went in.

Who wins a one on one you or Paris Horne?

We havent played yet, but with my competitive nature I think that I would win.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Love & Basketball.

Thanks Jerel for the chat.




Eric Detlev To Coach Fraport Skyliners Juniors - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

9 days after successfully staying in the PRO B for another season after the big game 3 win against Alba Berlin 2, the Fraport Skyliners announced some major changes today in the coaching area as Eric Detlev has come on board to coach the Fraport Skyliners PRO B team for the next 2 seasons. He also will help develop players and bring them closer to the Beko BBL level and also be at practices and at games of the Fraport Skyliners (Beko BBL) helping to mentor the double license players. 'I am happy to be coming to the Fraport Skyliners. The organization works very well in the professional and youth level. I am looking forward to my tasks and help strentghen the team', stated Eric Detlev . Detlev came from the Soba Dragons Rhondorf where he had been with for the last 11 years. He was head coach the last three years and was coach of the year in the PRO B in the 2009-2010 season as he helped bring the team to the PRO A.

Klaus-Gunther Mewes who had coached the Frankfurt Skyliners PRO B team will remain in the organization and now will assist the NBBL and Regionaliga teams together with Harald Stein . 'I am happy that the juniors finally have a coach who will be there around the clock. In the last two years, many PRO B teams have become more professional with the coaching staff and it is a area that needs a certain time limit. Eric Detlef is a capable coach that has proved over a longer period of time that he can bring a youth program forward. The last two year were tough, but I am looking forward to continuing to work in the youth area', stated Klaus-Gunther Mewes . 'I welcome Eric Detlev into the Frankfurt basketball family. I am sure that he will help improve our programes and do just as good a job as with his old team', warned Muli Katzurin .

Source: Fraport Skyliners


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


TOP-6 PLAYERS WHO IMPROVED THEIR STATUS IN EUROLEAGUE PLAYOFFS - by Dimitris Katsionis



Nick Kalathess last year performance against Barcelona was an example of a post season-surprise. Giving some players more responsibilities in this period, is part of coachess game plan. And an unexpected problem for the opponent.. Let's take a look at the role players who shined this season..

No6.) Nathan Jawai (14 ppg-7.3 rpg-18/28 2pt ): Jawai was Pashutins central point at Unicss game plan, in order to present something different against Barcelona. The Russian coach increased Jawais minutes on the court and gave him the green light to take the ball in the paint, use his body and finish strong. The Australian giant responded perfectly against a good defensive frontcourt. This style of offense (low tempo, finish deep in the paint) was the main reason that Unics had a balanced transition defense and Barcelona didnt really manage to run in the open court.

No5.) Kostas Kaimakoglou (9.8 ppg-3.8 rpg-10/19fg-20 per game): He is officially Panathinaikoss best power forward. Kaimakoglou, known as one of the players with the biggest IQ in the Greek league showed his guts hitting crucial shots in the crunch time. With ghosts chasing him (after game 2 and David Blues threes) the Greek forward stepped up and shut down Maccabis deadliest perimeter weapon.

No4.) Devin Smith (14.3 ppg-7.8 rpg-21/41 fg-34.3 per game): Smith is a surprise for Panathinaikoss coaching staff with his ability to hit almost every difficult and important shot. The American forward excelled on defense and offensive boards giving Maccabi a lot of energy being undoubtedly the best small forward in the series. Coach Obradovic must think a lot before putting Saras on Smith again..

No3.) Acie Law (9.3 ppg-2.8 rpg-4.5 apg-1.5 spg-4.0 rcv fouls-22 per game): Laws energy absolutely destroyed Montepaschi at the seriess fourth quarters, giving Ivkovic the opportunity to rest Spanoulis without affecting his teams performance. Laws ability to attack the basket in transition offense gave Olympiakos a big advantage while Pianigianis perimeter defenders just couldnt follow him. The Texas graduate has already won a bigger contract for next year..

No2.) Kyle Hines (14.5 ppg-4.5 rpg-1.5 bpg-3.5 rcv fouls-23/43 fg-22.8 per game) : Hines was simply a dynamite for Olympiakos in this playoff series. Ivkovic played him at center position position, especially in the fourth quarters. Hines took advantage his speed, power and simply destroyed Montepaschis 'light' frontcourt with his points and offensive boards. Technically, Hiness biggest advantage is his ability to defend in the paint and also stay in front of a quick player in the perimeter. Montepaschis guards just couldnt pass Hines and drive to the rim..

No1.) Yogev Ohayon (9.8 ppg-4.5 rpg-3.3 apg-1.8 spg-26.3 per game): Ohayon was Blatts answer in Panathinaikos press defense. The 24 year old guard is probably Maccabis more energetic player and his speed, explosiveness (great first step) and slashing ability gave to Keith Langford an ideal partner in the backcourt. Its obvious that this playoff series can change Ohayons career, just like Kalathes last year..Blatt found a quality guard for next year's team and Obradovic a big problem to solve.


*****************************************************
  GUYANA   


The National Team project - by Eurobasket News

National Teams are not born or are made overnight. They develop through a sound organizational structure, well-planned and designed by a competent and experienced staff.

Each National Federation is responsible for establishing a structure that offers insight, control and direction of the National Teams program. It should be a priority to have an organization which we should all be proud of in order to encourage teams to be our top national representation in national competitions.

The program of the National Team should be established and developed using the experiences in the past decades on international competitions as resources for building development. History should be there to not repeat past mistakes and so we can learn from them.

The goal is to select a group of players to represent our country in international competition on the highest ethical values and principles of competition. This whole process should be guided under a philosophy and goals directed by a body of professional men committed to strengthening the international competitive program to win and be an example on and off the court.

It should be understood that it is possible to develop a high-level structure aware of their limitations and strengths. But we must recognize that without a structure, human, economic, and competent managers it would be very difficult to transform the desire of any country of seeing a professional modern basketball National Team.

Planning and training of modern basketball involves major structural changes, with all its implications for physical, mental and administrative development focused on building national teams with real experts. National teams should function as a business unit, with several departments that focus on different specific aspects of the National Teams Program.

The responsibility of each National Federation is to provide a development plan to select and give a group of promising players the best opportunities to invest in their game and to develop their competitive skills. Attention to development is an essential part of the program.

The National Federation should have as a priority in their evolution, introducing and scheduling a systematic process for monitoring, discovering and strengthening the physical and technical skills of talented players in service of their respective national teams.

It is important to establish a list of requirements or criteria for selecting future players to be part of the National Teams. From the beginning, the main focus should be the selection of a good team unit to develop excellent teamwork.

Players in modern basketball should have strict requirements for training in their national teams, including physical characteristics and skills but also the technical performance requirements with respect to the personality of the players, the status of their health, social status and psychological knowledge and ethical aspects of their life.

The National Coach

The national coach is the key person in developing the plan of national teams. He is a role model for the knowledge and personal credibility. He must play the role of guide, organizer, planner and coordinator of the team.

The coach, with the help of expert assistants, need to make the final selection and final decisions of the team, because he knows their needs. This means that to achieve positive results, a successful coach must have the quality of a successful commercial director.

He must surround himself with good and competent assistants, who must be loyal, believing in his philosophy, working, committed and who know the game. His goal should be to develop a program that has continuity in its philosophy and a style of play that provide goals developed for the national team program.

They must develop a sense of teamwork and emphasize that the players need to be examples on both sides, inside and outside the court. They should know that wearing the shirt of his country is to defend and respect the institution of basketball through their examples.

Discipline and Rules

A national team coach must anticipate and plan their actions in case problems occur with individual players and groups within and outside the team.

It is his duty to establish a set of disciplinary rules to achieve a good attitude and appropriate behavior in achieving good results.

There must be rules that form the basis and backbone of the team. The National Team Coach should be firm, fair and consistent. His duty is to establish the rules from the first day of practice.

The practice should serve to establish its vision, goals and strategies to follow, accompanied by his technical philosophy. The coach must plan to win, while ensuring maximum improvement of the most promising players and the quality of team development.

The coach should have his own coaching philosophy, which represents the ideas of how to play basketball coach, based on the principles of sport.

From day one, the coach's efforts should be focused on the following achievements:

- The long-term plans for promising players to reach their maximum level of responsibility for physical and mental preparation of the team.

- The expert's knowledge and preparation for daily instruction.

- The motivation of the players for the game.

- Game plan and strategy

- Evaluation and recommendations.


There should be no room for improvisation, nor room for ignorance in the implementation of National Teams Project. Everything is planned and structured with professional responsibility to be an example to the society that supports them.


About the author:
One of the most significant coaches in basketball both in Puerto Rican and international levels, promoter of a new basketball, and the voice of coaches in America, Mr. Victor 'Vitito' Ojeda coached the Puerto Rico National Team in 1978 and has one of the highest winning percentages in the history of Puerto Rican basketball.

Courtesy of www.guyanabasketball.com


Schedule: Events/tournaments in 2012 - by Eurobasket News

Many basketball events will take a place in Guyana this year. Some of them are already over, but here is the complete list with all 2012 events/tournaments:

22-Jan YGB - Youth Basketball Guyana Series
27-Jan LABA - Trophy Stall Basketball League
28-Jan CBC - Annual General Meeting - Trinidad and Tobago
3-Feb GWBA - Fundraiser Reception (Washington DC)
16-Feb BABA - BHS Inter School Competition
18-Feb BABA - Inter Club Mashramani Tournament
24-Feb YBG - Mashramani Festival
24-Feb YGB - Secondary School Basketball Challenge
2-Mar LABA - Double Elimination K.O. Tournament
11-Mar GWBA - Gillian Brazier Basketball Shoot-Out (Antigua)
23-Mar LABA - Linden Town Week Championships
26-Mar YGB - Youth Basketball Guyana Series
1-Apr VVR - Victory Valley Royals Schools Basketball Championships
7-Apr LABA - All-Star Weekend
16-Apr YGB - Primary School Basketball Jamboree
30-Apr YGB - Youth Basketball Guyana Series
1-May BABA - Senior Inter Club Tournament
5-May LABA - Fun Day FIBA 3on3
19-May LABA - Table Officials and Referees Clinic
21-May YGB - Mini Basketball League
21-May YGB - Youth Basketball Guyana Series
1-Jul YGB - National School Basketball Festival
15-Jul GUY/USA - Georgetown/Linden Friendly Series 2011 Game 1
29-Jul GUY/USA - Georgetown/Linden Friendly Series 2011 Game 2
30-Jul BABA - Summer Camp
12-Aug GUY/USA - Guyana-NY Friendly Series All Star Game and Awards Ceremony
2-Sep GUBA - Pre-Labor Day Veterans Game
15-Sep BABA - U19 Tournament
15-Sep LABA - Brusch Classic 4
19-Oct NSC - IGG Games (Guyana)
29-Oct GABA - AGM and Elections
15-Dec YBG - Titan Bowl 2


8th Annual VVR Schools Championship bounces off - Marion Academy upsets MHS in an exhibition match - by Eurobasket News

Local basketball pundits would want to compare the Victory Valley Royals School Basketball Championships as Lindens equivalent to the NCAAs March Madness Colligate Championships given the hype, the fanfare and most of all the competiveness that surrounds the tournament.

Played among the secondary schools in Linden, the tournament now enters its eighth consecutive year, starting in 2005, and given the fact every year the organisors add something different to competition, it signals their intentions to solidify the Championship is here to stay.

Much of the success of this event has to do with the hard work done by the Victory Valley Royals (VVR) founder member Linden Sancho Alphonso as the former National Player and coach has been able to engage his friends in the corporate world and mostly overseas based Lindeners to give back to the community through the tournament.

Since its inception, several of Guyanas top junior players were brought to the fore with Akeem The Dream Kanhai and Orin Six Head Rose being among them.

The tournament is also used as a medium in which schools now have a chance to compete at the National School Championships in which Linden Technical Institute has been the most successful.

This years tournament is also poised to be epic and begins today with a double header; Linden Foundation Secondary versus Wesburg Secondary and Christianburg Wismar Secondary School (Multi) taking on the Linden Technical Institute.

Meanwhile, the tournament was officially launched on Wednesday last in the most dramatic fashion which saw Marion Academy getting the better of Mackenzie High School (MHS) 49 43 in an exciting encounter that kept spectators standing for the during of the entire game.

Marion featuring junior National captain and point guard Dominic Vinciente at their helm while MHS had their star player and Junior National high jump record holder Parish Cadogan controlling the back court.

The final score of the game doesnt truly reflect how tight it was from jump ball as Marion Academy led by Vinciente and Taquan Vieira sprung to an early 6 0 lead, not until Cadogan and Isaiah Alphonso got into gear.

While Cadogan punched the lane and scored easy by leaping easily over the Marion defenders, Alphonsos jumpers were on point as MHS went on a 10 0 run.

But the visitors clawed their way back into the game that saw several lead changes until the junior National captain showed his worth by single handedly taking on MHSs defense; easily getting to the basket using his lethal cross-over dribble.

Alphonso and Cadogan are MHSs primary scorers but their teammates apparently didnt get the memo as they wildly shot the ball away and dribbled into a steady double team trap set by Marion Academy.

Cadogan led all scorers with a game high 18 points while Alphonso had 14 for MHS. Vinciente, Vieira and Selvaughn Moseley each scored 12 points for Marian Academy.

The playing dates for this years tournament are April 2, 4, 11, 13, 16, 18, 20, with Semi-finals set for April 23rd and finals April 26. All matches will be played at the Mackenzie Sports Club Hard Court.

Courtesy of www.guyanabasketball.com


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


Athletes Auction, "Like To Keep Things Simple And Transparent". - by Fred Roggen

I had a chance to talk with Jaron Reddy of Athletes Auction, a marketplace for players and clubs. Athletes Auction is an online platform where pro basketball players can manage their careers and clubs can save 50% on annual agency fees. They are FIBA certified and offer all the benefits of a regular agency.
Athletes Auction stands for market transparency and provides legally approved paperwork.
In this interview Jaron explains why they have set up this concept and how player and clubs benefit.
Check out their website here: http://athletesauction.com/

Where did the concept of Athletes Auction originate?
We both worked for EiffelTowers Den Bosch. I was responsible for marketing, Remco was involved with recruiting and talent development. Basically, we combined our skills and came up with this concept. From our experiences, we both feel the current market has become somewhat shady. We stand for tranparency, and believe in the power of modern day media and communications. We provide a tool kit to handle business.

The name Athletes Auction is unusual, is there some significance behind that?
The name is significant because it describes exactly what is. A marketplace, where players can indicate their desired season salary and clubs can submit bids for the services of these players. Independently, transparently and discretely.

What is the difference between the existing agencies and your new concept?
We can represent both player and club in the same way a traditional agency does. We provide officially approved paperwork and can support both parties in any dispute. The main difference is that we leave contract negotiations to player and club, by providing an online bidding platform.

In your opinion, what are the benefits of using this platform for players and Clubs?
The benefits for clubs are obvious. On average, clubs can save 50% on annual agency fees. A club official has direct contact with players, we take out the middle men. Bidding is discrete; only the player in question can view a submitted bid. Players benefit because they can showcase their skills to a broader audience than the average agency network. They have the means to interact directly with club officials. And last but not least: players are not dependent on the efforts of agents. They manage and market their own careers. We provide the infrastructure: username and password, profile information including desired salary, video & photo gallery and social media.

How do you market your business?
We firmly believe in this concept and approach players and club officials mainly through social media. We're on Twitter (@athletesauction), have a Facebook page (facebook.com/athletesauction) and you can reach us both on LinkedIn. It's a whole new ball game and we realise it's a big switch for everybody involved, but we feel it's time for a change. Because both parties benefit.

Todays social media connects people with no face-to-face contact, your business puts people together face to face, was that deliberate?existing
Why not use social media to bring people closer together? These days, an online platform is all players and club executives really need. Its the new way. People are even buying property online. So why not land a basketball deal?!


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

Standings - A Division

A Division Standings
 1. Falco-Szova 22-3 
 2. Szolnok 21-4 
 3. Albacomp 20-5 
 4. Kormend 18-7 
 5. Atomeromu 17-8 
 6. Kecskemeti 14-11 
 7. PVSK Pannon 13-12 
 8. Soproni 11-14 
 9. Kaposvari 10-15 
 10. FS Debrecen 8-17 
 11. Szedeak 7-18 
 12. Marso NYKK 7-18 
 13. Jaszberenyi 6-19 
 14. ZTE KK 1-24 

Regular Season: Round 26

Apr. 4: Albacomp - Szolnok
Apr. 4: Jaszberenyi - Kormend
Apr. 4: FS Debrecen - Atomeromu
Apr. 4: Kaposvari - Kecskemeti
Apr. 4: Szedeak - ZTE KK
Apr. 4: Marso NYKK - Falco-Szova
Apr. 4: Soproni - PVSK Pannon


A Division Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Justin INGRAM
  FS Debre.
  (185-PG-85)
  Avg: 24.4
 1. Ingram, FS Debre.24.4 
 2. Ciric, PVSK P.22.3 
 3. Timberlake, Falco-.22.1 
 4. Raivio, Kaposvari21.1 
 5. Austin, Jaszberenyi20.8 
 6. Doyne, PVSK P.20.2 
 7. Ivosev, Szedeak20.2 
 8. Schachtner, FS Deb.19.8 
 9. Bell, Kormend19.0 
 10. Levy, Szedeak19.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Miklos SZABO
  FS Debrecen
  (206-F/C-86)
  Avg: 9.9
 1. Szabo, FS Debrecen9.9 
 2. Miskovic, Marso N.9.6 
 3. Fey, Kaposvari9.1 
 4. Pantelic, Falco-Sz.9.0 
 5. Bader, Szolnok8.8 
 6. Raivio, Kaposvari8.6 
 7. Ivosev, Szedeak8.6 
 8. Townes, Kormend8.6 
 9. Austin, Jaszberenyi8.1 
 10. Egemonye, Soproni8.1 
Assists Per Game
 Laszlo KALMAN
  Falco-Sz.
  (186-G-72)
  Avg: 7.3
 1. Kalman, Falco-Sz.7.3 
 2. Wilson, Kaposvari5.9 
 3. Simon, Albacomp5.8 
 4. Williams, Atomeromu5.7 
 5. Trotter, Szolnok5.6 
 6. Ingram, FS Debre.5.6 
 7. Fekete, Marso N.4.6 
 8. Thomas, Soproni4.5 
 9. Drahos, Szedeak4.1 
 10. Vasojevic, PVSK P.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. Ivosev, Szedeak2.3 
 7. Raivio, Kaposvari2.3 
 8. Toth, PVSK P.2.2 
 9. Wittmann, Kecsk.2.2 
 10. Doyne, PVSK P.2.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Darian TOWNES
  Kormend
  (208-F/C-84)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Townes, Kormend2.2 
 2. Pantelic, Falco-Sz.1.7 
 3. Keller, Albacomp1.4 
 4. Ivosev, Szedeak1.0 
 5. Levy, Szedeak1.0 
 6. Egemonye, Soproni1.0 
 7. Morgen, Atomeromu1.0 
 8. Chism, Albacomp0.9 
 9. Fey, Kaposvari0.8 
 10. Bell, Kormend0.8 


A Division Round 25: Albacomp loses to Atomeromu - by Eurobasket News

There will be only one (last) round of the Regular Season in A Division. Host teams show no mercy winning all games.

The game between second ranked Albacomp (20-5) and fifth ranked Atomeromu (17-8) was the most important one in the last round on Saturday night. Albacomp was defeated by Atomeromu in a tough game in Paks 66-71. It ended at the same time the seven-game winning streak of Albacomp. The hosts trailed by 3 points at the halftime before their 38-30 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Atomeromu made 18-of-20 free shots (90.0 percent) during the game. Atomeromu outrebounded Albacomp 44-31 including a 35-22 advantage in defensive rebounds. Worth to mention a great performance of the former international Gergely Koertelyesi (203-PF-83, agency: TSS Management) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 28 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists. Power forward Ferdinand Morgen (211-90) contributed with 18 points and 12 rebounds for the winners. American swingman Muhammad El Amin (196-87, college: Stony Brook) answered with 13 points and 5 assists for Albacomp. Atomeromu maintains fifth place with 17-8 record. Albacomp at the other side dropped to the third position with five games lost. Atomeromu are looking forward to face FS Debrecen (#10) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Albacomp will play against the league's second-placed Szolnok (#2) in Szolnok and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
An interesting game for Szolnok (21-4) which hosted in Szolnok 4th placed Kormend (18-7). Third ranked Szolnok managed to get a 6-point victory 83-77. American swingman Julien Mills (193-85, college: Ball St.) stepped up and scored 16 points, 8 rebounds, 7 assists and 4 steals for the winners and Obie Trotter chipped in 28 points. At the losing side American power forward Darian Townes (208-84) responded with a double-double by scoring 12 points and 11 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Szolnok have a solid series of four victories in a row. They moved-up to second place. Kormend at the other side keeps the fourth position with seven games lost. Szolnok will play against Albacomp (#3) in Szekesfehervar in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Kormend will play on the road against Jaszberenyi and hopes to get back on the winning track.
A Division top team - Falco-Szova (22-3) had no problems winning another game on Saturday. This time they crushed eighth ranked Kaposvari (10-15) in Szombathely 105-75. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Kaposvari. Chad Timberlake nailed 20 points and 5 assists (on 8-of-9 shooting from the field) for the winning side. Nikolas Raivio came up with 13 points and 5 assists for Kaposvari in the defeat. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Falco-Szova have a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain first place with 22-3 record. Loser Kaposvari dropped to the ninth position with 15 games lost. Falco-Szova will meet Marso NYKK (#12) in the next round which should be another easy win for them. Kaposvari will play against Kecskemeti and hope to secure a win.

Other games in round 25 were not that significant. Szedeak was beaten by PVSK Pannon on the road 110-92. Soproni destroyed Marso NYKK on its own court 88-64. Jaszberenyi unfortunately lost to Kecskemeti in a road game 70-82.



PVSK Pannon - Szedeak 110-92
No shocking result in a game when seventh ranked PVSK Pannon (13-12) beat 11th ranked Szedeak (7-18) in Pecs 110-92 on Saturday. The game was mostly controlled by PVSK Pannon. Szedeak managed to win fourth quarter 32-27. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. PVSK Pannon looked well-organized offensively handing out 24 assists. Serbian guard Andrija Ciric (199-80, agency: BeoExcell) nailed 33 points (!!!) for the winning side and the former international forward Norbert Toth (203-86, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) accounted for 12 points, 13 rebounds and 6 assists. Serbian forward Tomislav Ivosev (204-90) came up with 21 points and 8 rebounds and American guard Jonathan Levy (193-82, college: CS San Bernar.) added 13 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists respectively for Szedeak in the defeat. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. PVSK Pannon maintains seventh place with 13-12 record. Newly promoted Szedeak keeps the eleventh position with 18 games lost. They share it with Marso NYKK. PVSK Pannon will meet Soproni (#8) on the road in the next round. Szedeak will play against ZTE KK in Zalaegerszeg and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
PVSK Pannon: A.Ciric 33+4reb+1ast, J.Doyne 23+6reb+2ast, N.Vasojevic 20+3reb+5ast, N.Toth 12+13reb+6ast, A.Csabay 11+2reb+3ast, A.Deak 9+1reb+4ast
Szedeak: T.Ivosev 21+8reb+2ast, G.Drahos 17+3reb+4ast, J.Levy 13+8reb+5ast, N.Dukic 10+3reb+2ast, A.Tanacs 10+4reb, Z.Kiss 8

gschID: 146785


Soproni - Marso NYKK 88-64
Rather expected game when 12th ranked Marso NYKK (7-18) was smashed on the road by ninth ranked Soproni (11-14) 88-64 on Saturday. The hosts trailed by 1 point after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 1-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 88-64. Soproni dominated on the defensive end, holding Marso NYKK to just 6 points in third quarter. American guard Janou Rubin (193-82, college: UCLA, agency: Two Points) nailed 26 points for the winning side and his fellow American import guard Dontay Thomas (186-84, college: La Salle) accounted for 19 points and 5 rebounds. American guard Brandon Fields (193-88, college: Nevada) came up with 23 points and Serbian power forward Ivan Miskovic (203-84, college: Alaska-Fairb.) added 15 points and 8 rebounds respectively for Marso NYKK in the defeat. Soproni moved-up to eighth place. Marso NYKK lost fifth consecutive game. They dropped to the eleventh position with 18 games lost. They share it with Szedeak. Soproni will meet at home higher ranked PVSK Pannon (#7) in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Marso NYKK will play against the league's leader Falco-Szova (#1) having rather not much hope for a victory.
Top scorers:
Soproni: J.Rubin 26+3reb+2ast, D.Thomas 19+5reb+3ast, Z.Vesztergom 11+1reb+1ast, R.Keresztes 8, B.Egemonye 8+13reb+2ast, N.Takacs 5+1reb
Marso NYKK: B.Fields 23+3reb+3ast, I.Miskovic 15+8reb+1ast, D.Kandic 9+4reb+2ast, E.Sitku 8+4reb, L.Polyak 3, M.Mohacsi 3+3reb
gschID: 146786


Atomeromu - Albacomp 71-66
The game between second ranked Albacomp (20-5) and fifth ranked Atomeromu (17-8) was the most important one in the last round on Saturday night. Albacomp was defeated by Atomeromu in a tough game in Paks 66-71. It ended at the same time the seven-game winning streak of Albacomp. The hosts trailed by 3 points at the halftime before their 38-30 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Atomeromu made 18-of-20 free shots (90.0 percent) during the game. Atomeromu outrebounded Albacomp 44-31 including a 35-22 advantage in defensive rebounds. Worth to mention a great performance of the former international Gergely Koertelyesi (203-83, agency: TSS Management) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 28 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists. Power forward Ferdinand Morgen (211-90) contributed with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 12 rebounds for the winners. American swingman Muhammad El Amin (196-87, college: Stony Brook) answered with 13 points and 5 assists and the other American import forward Wayne Chism (206-87, college: Tennessee) added 14 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for Albacomp. Atomeromu maintains fifth place with 17-8 record. Albacomp at the other side dropped to the third position with five games lost. Atomeromu are looking forward to face FS Debrecen (#10) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Albacomp will play against the league's second-placed Szolnok (#2) in Szolnok and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Atomeromu: G.Koertelyesi 28+10reb+4ast, F.Morgen 18+12reb+2ast, T.Frost 7+7reb+1ast, A.Toth 6+3reb+1ast, A.Kovacs 4+3reb+6ast, T.Kaman 4+7reb
Albacomp: W.Chism 14+5reb+1ast, M.El Amin 13+2reb+5ast, B.Simon 11+3reb+5ast, A.Keller 9+7reb, R.Hendlein 7+2reb+2ast, D.Hollis 4+4reb
gschID: 146782


Kecskemeti - Jaszberenyi 82-70
Very predictable result when sixth ranked Kecskemeti (14-11) won against at home 13th ranked Jaszberenyi (6-19) 82-70 on Saturday. The hosts trailed by 1 point after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 10-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 82-70. Kecskemeti made 20-of-26 free shots (76.9 percent) during the game. Kecskemeti outrebounded Jaszberenyi 39-27 including 26 on the defensive glass. The former international guard Krisztian Wittmann (185-85, agency: FCM) nailed 25 points, 5 assists and 4 steals for the winning side and Serbian swingman Marko Derasimovic (200-84) accounted for 16 points and 5 rebounds. Kecskemeti's coach used a ten-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. American forward Kyle Austin (203-88, college: Cal-Riverside) came up with 19 points and 5 rebounds and Serbian center Rastko Dramicanin (207-86, agency: BeoExcell) added 14 points and 7 rebounds respectively for Jaszberenyi in the defeat. Kecskemeti maintains sixth place with 14-11 record. Jaszberenyi lost third consecutive game. Newly promoted team keeps the thirteenth position with 19 games lost. Kecskemeti will meet Kaposvari (#9) on the road in the next round. Jaszberenyi will play against Kormend (#4) and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Kecskemeti: K.Wittmann 25+3reb+5ast, M.Derasimovic 16+5reb+2ast, M.Csorvasi 13+1reb+1ast, G.Denes 9+10reb+1ast, Z.Bencze 5+5reb, G.Gruda 4
Jaszberenyi: K.Austin 19+5reb+3ast, R.Dramicanin 14+7reb+1ast, B.Sormaz 12, A.Szogi 8+2reb+1ast, M.Medve 5+4reb, B.Horti 4+3reb+2ast
gschID: 146783


Falco-Szova - Kaposvari 105-75
A Division top team - Falco-Szova (22-3) had no problems winning another game on Saturday. This time they crushed eighth ranked Kaposvari (10-15) in Szombathely 105-75. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Kaposvari. The game was mostly controlled by Falco-Szova. Kaposvari managed to win fourth quarter 21-19. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Falco-Szova well out of reach of Kaposvari shooting 70.5 percent from the field. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Falco-Szova made 7 blocks. American guard Chad Timberlake (194-84, college: Fair Dickinson) nailed 20 points and 5 assists (on 8-of-9 shooting from the field) for the winning side and international forward Zsolt Szabo (202-86, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) accounted for 15 points and 7 rebounds. American guard Nikolas Raivio (192-86, college: Portland, agency: Priority Sports) came up with 13 points and 5 assists and power forward Jozsef Lekli (206-87, agency: TSS Management) added 13 points and 7 rebounds respectively for Kaposvari in the defeat. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Falco-Szova have a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain first place with 22-3 record. Loser Kaposvari dropped to the ninth position with 15 games lost. Falco-Szova will meet Marso NYKK (#12) in the next round which should be another easy win for them. Kaposvari will play against Kecskemeti and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Falco-Szova: C.Timberlake 20+4reb+5ast, Z.Szabo 15+7reb+1ast, B.Jancikin 13+3reb+1ast, D.Pantelic 11+3reb+3ast, L.Kalman 10+6ast, T.Harazin 10+1reb
Kaposvari: G.David 17+3reb, N.Raivio 13+4reb+5ast, J.Lekli 13+7reb+1ast, K.Ahelegbe 11+2reb+2ast, C.Gosa 11+2reb+2ast, G.Kutasi 7
gschID: 146784


Szolnok - Kormend 83-77
An interesting game for Szolnok (21-4) which hosted in Szolnok 4th placed Kormend (18-7). Third ranked Szolnok managed to get a 6-point victory 83-77. The hosts started the game with a very strong first quarter 27-15. But Kormend won third quarter 26-19. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. American swingman Julien Mills (193-85, college: Ball St.) stepped up and scored 16 points, 8 rebounds, 7 assists and 4 steals for the winners and international point guard Obie Trotter (186-84, college: Alabama A&M, agency: Court Side) chipped in 28 points. At the losing side American power forward Darian Townes (208-84) responded with a double-double by scoring 12 points and 11 rebounds and the former international guard Csaba Ferencz (194-85, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) scored 15 points and 5 rebounds. Five Kormend players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Szolnok have a solid series of four victories in a row. They moved-up to second place. Kormend at the other side keeps the fourth position with seven games lost. Szolnok will play against Albacomp (#3) in Szekesfehervar in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Kormend will play on the road against Jaszberenyi and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Szolnok: O.Trotter 28+2reb, J.Mills 16+8reb+7ast, H.Nikolov 13+2reb+2ast, A.Horvath 8+2ast, Z.Trepak 6+2reb+1ast, B.Gay 5+6reb
Kormend: C.Ferencz 15+5reb+1ast, D.Townes 12+11reb+1ast, I.Nemeth 12+3reb+2ast, R.Bell 11+5reb+1ast, M.English 10+3reb+7ast, G.Cseh 7+3reb


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

28-year old power forward Gergely Koertelyesi (203-PF-83, agency: TSS Management) put on an amazing game in the last round for Atomeromu and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 25.
He had a double-double of 28 points and 10 rebounds, while his team beat Albacomp (#3, 20-5) 71-66. Atomeromu maintains the 5th position in Hungarian league. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Atomeromu will need more victories to improve their 17-8 record. In the team's last game Koertelyesi had a remarkable 85.7% from 2-point range and got three three-pointers out of 6 attempts. He has many years of experience at Atomeromu, through which he has constantly improved. Gergely Koertelyesi averages this season 9.0ppg and 5.6rpg.

Second best performed player last round was Andrija Ciric (199-G-80, agency: BeoExcell) of PVSK Pannon. He is Serbian guard in his first season at PVSK Pannon. In the last game Ciric recorded impressive 33 points and 4 rebounds. Of course he lead PVSK Pannon to another comfortable win 110-92 over the lower-ranked Szedeak (#11, 7-18) being unquestionably team leader. PVSK Pannon's 7th position in the standings has not changed. His team lost some distance to top teams. But 13-12 record is not bad and everything may still change. Ciric is a newcomer at PVSK Pannon and quickly became one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 22.3ppg (#2). He also registered 5.1 boards per game.

Third place about best performers goes to swingman Julien Mills (193-G/F-85) of league's second-best Szolnok. Mills showcased his all-around game by recording 16 points, eight rebounds and seven assists in the last round. He was a key player of Szolnok, leading his team to a 83-77 win against #4 ranked Kormend in a game of the week. Szolnok is closer and closer to the top of the standings. They will still need more victories. But 21-4 record is not that bad... Mills has a very solid season. In 23 games in Hungary he scored 12.0ppg. He also has 5.7rpg, FGP: 52.2% and 3PT: 44.6%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Krisztian Wittmann (185-G-85) of Kecskemeti - 25 points, 3 rebounds and 5 assists
5. Chad Timberlake (194-G-84) of Falco-Szova - 20 points, 4 rebounds and 5 assists
6. Ferdinand Morgen (211-F/C-90) of Atomeromu - 18 points, 12 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Norbert Toth (203-F-86) of PVSK Pannon - 12 points, 13 rebounds and 6 assists
8. Obie Trotter (186-PG-84) of Szolnok - 28 points and 2 rebounds
9. Janou Rubin (193-G-82) of Soproni - 26 points, 3 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Jara Doyne (193-G/F-84) of PVSK Pannon - 23 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists

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


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

Stats Leaders (Men)

Points Per Game
 Robert JARVIS
  IR
  (180-G-87)
  Avg: 24
 1. Jarvis, IR24.0 
 2. Govens, Thor Thorl23.5 
 3. Echols, Njardvik22.4 
 4. Walkup, Fjolnir22.2 
 5. Holmes, Njardvik21.9 
 6. Bullock, Grindavik21.0 
 7. Cole, Keflavik20.7 
 8. Sovic, IR20.5 
 9. O''Neil, Fjolnir20.2 
 10. Parker, Keflavik19.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Quincy HANKINS-COLE
  Snaef.
  (203-F-90)
  Avg: 12.8
 1. Hankins-Cole, Snae.12.8 
 2. Hairston, Thor T.12.8 
 3. Echols, Njardvik11.1 
 4. Smith, Haukar10.7 
 5. Tratnik, Valur10.4 
 6. Cole, Keflavik10.2 
 7. Walkup, Fjolnir10.1 
 8. Bullock, Grindavik9.9 
 9. Lindmets, Stjarnan8.6 
 10. Magnusson, KR8.1 
Assists Per Game
 Justin SHOUSE
  Stjarnan
  (180-G-81)
  Avg: 7.3
 1. Shouse, Stjarnan7.3 
 2. Watson, Grindavik6.7 
 3. Miller, Tindastoll6.0 
 4. Hall, Snaefell5.7 
 5. Govens, Thor Thorl4.6 
 6. Fridriksson, Njard.4.5 
 7. Brown, KR4.5 
 8. O''Neil, Fjolnir4.5 
 9. Gunnarsson, Kefla.3.9 
 10. Parker, Keflavik3.9 
Steals Per Game
 Travis HOLMES
  Njardvik
  (193-G-86)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Holmes, Njardvik2.9 
 2. Allen, Tindastoll2.8 
 3. Cothran, Stjarnan2.6 
 4. Hall, Snaefell2.3 
 5. Parker, Keflavik2.3 
 6. Brown, KR2.2 
 7. Miller, Tindastoll2.2 
 8. Shouse, Stjarnan2.2 
 9. Gunnarsson, Kefla.2.2 
 10. Govens, Thor Thorl1.9 
Blocks Per Game
 Junior HAIRSTON
  Thor T.
  (203-F-84)
  Avg: 3.7
 1. Hairston, Thor T.3.7 
 2. Smith, Haukar3.6 
 3. Tratnik, Valur2.2 
 4. Lindmets, Stjarnan1.0 
 5. Holmes, Njardvik1.0 
 6. Gudbrandsson, Kefl.1.0 
 7. Barja, Haukar0.9 
 8. Magnusson, KR0.9 
 9. Cole, Keflavik0.9 
 10. Thorsteinsso., Gr.0.9 


Express L. Round 2 of Quarter-Finals - by Eurobasket News

Snaefell - Thor Thorl 94-84

Snaefell stayed alive in the quarterfinal series versus Thor Thorl. They earned home win to force decider. Thor Thorl was ahead by 2 points at the halftime before a 47-35 second half run of Snaefell. They made 22-of-26 charity shots (84.6 percent) during the game. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 23 assists. American point guard Marquis Hall (183-87, college: Lehigh) had a double-double by scoring 22 points, 10 rebounds and 8 assists to lead the charge for the winners and forward Jon Olafur Jonsson (199-81) chipped in 27 points and 7 rebounds (was perfect 8-for-8 from the free throw line) during the contest. American guard Darrin Govens (185-88, college: St.Joseph's) responded with 32 points and 6 rebounds and his fellow American import forward Junior Hairston (203-84, college: Towson, agency: KMG Sports Management) scored 16 points and 7 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Thor Thorl: D.Govens 32+6reb+3ast, B.Janev 18+6reb+1ast, J.Hairston 16+7reb+2ast, G.Jonsson 12+4reb+2ast, D.Hilmarsson 4+6reb+3ast, G.Erlendsson 2+5reb+1ast
Snaefell: J.Olafur Jonsson 27+7reb+2ast, M.Hall 22+10reb+8ast, Q.Hankins-Cole 22+13reb+1ast, P.Sigurgeirsson 11+4reb+6ast, H.Gunnarsson 7+1reb, S.Davidsson 3+5reb+5ast
gschID: 172641


Keflavik - Stjarnan 88-82

Keflavik tied things up at 1-1 in best-of-three series. The decisive third game is now scheduled on Thursday. The hosts trailed by 5 points at the halftime before their 43-32 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Keflavik made 28-of-31 free shots (90.3 percent) during the game. 24 personal fouls committed by Stjarnan helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American guard Charles Parker (193-85, college: Millersville) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 24 points and 12 rebounds. The other American import forward Jarryd Cole (200-88, college: Iowa, agency: JEMsports) contributed with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 14 rebounds for the winners. American guard Justin Shouse (180-81, college: Mercyhurst) replied with 20 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists and swingman Marvin Valdimarsson (198-81) added 18 points and 7 rebounds in the effort for Stjarnan. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Stjarnan: J.Shouse 20+8reb+4ast, M.Valdimarsson 18+7reb+2ast, K.Cothran 14+4reb+4ast, J.Zdravevski 11+7reb+3ast, R.Lindmets 9+8reb+1ast, S.Larusson 4
Keflavik: C.Parker 24+12reb+3ast, J.Cole 22+14reb, V.Valsson 16+4reb+6ast, M.Gunnarsson 15+1reb+6ast, H.Halldorsson 6+2reb, A.Gudbrandsson 5+3reb+2ast
gschID: 172642


Njardvik - Grindavik 76-87

Grindavik entered the semifinal stage as they knocked down Njardvik on the road. Njardvik was tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. It was a great shooting night for Grindavik especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 52.4 percentage. American guard Giordan Watson (178-85, college: Cent.Michigan) notched 17 points, 5 rebounds and 9 assists to lead the effort and the former international swingman Thorleifur Olafsson (192-84) supported him with 17 points. Even 17 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists by guard Elvar Fridriksson (181-94) did not help to save the game for Njardvik. American guard Travis Holmes (193-86, college: VMI, agency: Strategic Sports) added 18 points and 7 assists for the hosts. Five Grindavik and four Njardvik players scored in double figures. Njardvik's coach Einar Johannson rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
Njardvik: C.Echols 19+8reb, T.Holmes 18+3reb+7ast, E.Fridriksson 17+8reb+5ast, P.Kristinsson 10+5reb+2ast, M.Baginski 9+1ast, O.Jonsson 3+3reb+2ast
Grindavik: T.Olafsson 17+2reb+3ast, G.Watson 17+5reb+9ast, J.Bullock 13+7reb, P.Axel Vilbergsson 13+4reb, J.Olafsson 11+1reb+3ast, S.Thorsteinsson 10+10reb+1ast
gschID: 172639


Tindastoll - KR 81-89

KR cruised into the next stage as they swept the series versus Tindastoll. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 21-16. But Tindastoll won second period 18-16. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. KR players were unselfish on offense dishing 21 assists. The best player for the winners was American guard Joshua Brown (187-88, college: Towson) who scored 18 points, 9 rebounds and 7 assists. Serbian forward Dejan Sencanski (198-84, college: Abil.Christian) chipped in 27 points. Brown is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Four KR players scored in double figures. American guard Curtis Allen (193-86, college: ORU) produced 25 points and 5 rebounds and swingman Helgi Viggosson (189-83) added 15 points and 5 rebounds respectively for the hosts.
Top scorers:
Tindastoll: C.Allen 25+5reb+2ast, H.Viggosson 15+5reb+2ast, F.Hreinsson 10+3reb+3ast, T.Johannsson 8+1reb+2ast, I.Tratnik 8+6reb, S.Birgisson 7+4reb
KR: D.Sencanski 27+4reb+2ast, J.Brown 18+9reb+7ast, F.Magnusson 14+5reb+4ast, R.Ferguson 10+5reb+2ast, M.Hermannsson 8+2reb+3ast, H.Magnusson 7+3reb+1ast
gschID: 172640



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

Standings - IBL

NBL Standings
 1. Aspac 26-5 
 2. Satria Muda 25-4 
 3. Pelita Jaya 23-7 
 4. Garuda 23-7 
 5. CLS Knights 20-10 
 6. Muba Hangtuah 17-13 
 7. Stadium Jak. 16-14 
 8. Bima Sakti 10-19 
 9. Pacific Caesar 9-22 
 10. Comfort Mobile 6-25 
 11. Satya Wacana 4-26 
 12. NSH GMC Riau 1-28 

Regular Season: Round 49

Apr. 3: CLS Knights - Stadium Jak. 73-65
Apr. 3: Muba Hangtuah - Bima Sakti 73-65
Apr. 3: Pelita Jaya - Pacific Caesar 70-43
Apr. 3: Comfort Mobile - Aspac 38-77

Regular Season: Round 50

Apr. 4: NSH GMC Riau - Garuda
Apr. 4: Pacific Caesar - CLS Knights
Apr. 4: Satria Muda - Satya Wacana


Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Yanuar DWI PRIASMORO
  Bima S.
  (178-SG-89)
  Avg: 16.6
 1. Dwi Priasmor., Bim.16.6 
 2. Ferdiansyah, Stadi.15.3 
 3. Nagata, Pacific14.1 
 4. Wisnu, Satria Muda13.8 
 5. Rizky Ardian., Bim.13.5 
 6. Sapto, Muba H.12.9 
 7. Chandra, Pelita J.12.2 
 8. Ahmad, Satria Muda12.1 
 9. Regowo, Aspac11.9 
 10. Prawiro, Aspac11.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Galank GUNAWAN
  Satria M.
  (194-PF-87)
  Avg: 10.8
 1. Gunawan, Satria M.10.8 
 2. Regowo, Aspac8.8 
 3. Thoyib, Aspac8.2 
 4. Heryadi, Muba H.7.9 
 5. Yanto, NSH G.7.8 
 6. Sitepu, Satria M.7.5 
 7. Rizky Ardian., Bim.7.3 
 8. Nasution, Satya W.7.0 
 9. Wuwungan, Satya W.6.6 
 10. Wisnu, Satria Muda6.6 
Assists Per Game
 Denny SARTIKA
  Bima Sakti
  (175-PG-80)
  Avg: 4.2
 1. Sartika, Bima Sakti4.2 
 2. Gerungan, Aspac4.0 
 3. Purwanto, Pelita J.3.5 
 4. Muharri, CLS K.3.5 
 5. Widyanto, Pacifi.3.2 
 6. Ahmad, Satria Muda2.5 
 7. Yusran, Stadium2.5 
 8. Wilopo, Muba H.2.4 
 9. Uniputty, Comfor.2.4 
 10. Wijaya, Garuda2.4 
Steals Per Game
 Kelly PURWANTO
  Pelita J.
  (177-PG-83)
  Avg: 3
 1. Purwanto, Pelita J.3.0 
 2. Poedjakesuma, Peli.2.7 
 3. Muharri, CLS K.2.7 
 4. Ferdiansyah, Stadi.2.3 
 5. Sartika, Bima Sakti2.3 
 6. Wijaya, Garuda2.2 
 7. Uniputty, Comfor.2.1 
 8. Ahmad, Satria Muda2.0 
 9. Sunarya, Muba H.2.0 
 10. Sapto, Muba H.2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 R RUSLAN
  Stadium .
  (197-C-89)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Ruslan, Stadium2.6 
 2. Thoyib, Aspac2.3 
 3. Sitepu, Satria M.2.1 
 4. Arizki, Aspac1.7 
 5. Gunawan, Satya W.1.6 
 6. Damanik, NSH G.1.3 
 7. Teguh, Muba H.1.3 
 8. Indrawan, Pelita J.1.2 
 9. Listiyono, Pacifi.1.1 
 10. Sitaniapesy, Comf.1.0 


Best players of Indonesian NBL round 48 - by Eurobasket News

Octoviano Sura (190-PF-84) had an amazing evening in the last round for Garuda and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 48.
The 27-year old power forward had the game-high 7 points adding nine rebounds and six assists for Garuda in his team's victory, helping them to crush Satya Wacana (#11, 4-26) with 17-point margin 61-44. Garuda is placed at 3rd position in Indonesian NBL. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Garuda will need more victories to improve their 23-7 record. It was one of impressive evenings for Sura as usually he does not deliver so high stats. Octoviano Sura averages this season 5.4ppg.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was young power forward Bima Rizky Ardiansyah (182-PF-90) of Bima Sakti. Rizky Ardiansyah impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 13 points and 13 rebounds. Of course he lead Bima Sakti to another comfortable win outscoring slightly lower-ranked Comfort Mobile (#10, 6-24) 65-26. Bima Sakti's 8th position in the standings has not changed. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 10-18 record. Rizky Ardiansyah is a newcomer at Bima Sakti and it seems he did not have too much trouble to become one of team's leaders.

The third best performed player last round was Arki Wisnu (187-G-88) of top-ranked Satria Muda. Wisnu showcased his all-around game by recording 11 points, nine rebounds and five assists in the last round. He was a key player of Satria Muda, leading his team to a 73-41 easy win against the lower-ranked NSH GMC Riau (#12, 1-28). Satria Muda confirms their top position in the standings Wisnu has a great season in Indonesia. After 33 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 13.8ppg (4th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Hendrik Agustinus (203-C-82) of Garuda - 12 points and 5 rebounds
5. Galank Gunawan (194-PF-87) of Satria Muda - 8 points and 15 rebounds
6. Respati Pamungkas (180-G-91) of Satya Wacana - 15 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Christian Ronaldo Sitepu (200-C/F-86) of Satria Muda - 9 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists
8. Wendha Wijaya (181-PG-82) of Garuda - 10 points, 4 rebounds and 5 assists
9. Yanuar Dwi Priasmoro (178-SG-89) of Bima Sakti - 17 points and 2 rebounds
10. Bonanza Siregar (192-SF-87) of Satria Muda - 12 points and 2 rebounds

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


NBL Round 49: Aspac rolls over Comfort Mobile by 39 points - 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.

The game between 10th ranked Comfort Mobile (6-25) and second ranked Aspac (26-5) in Jakarta on Tuesday ended with biggest points difference. Guests from Jakarta outscored Comfort Mobile 77-38. The game without a history. Aspac led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Comfort Mobile to just 6 points in second quarter. Aspac dominated down low during the game scoring 48 of its points in the paint compared to Comfort Mobile's 22. They outrebounded Comfort Mobile 54-20 including a 18-3 advantage in offensive rebounds. Worth to mention a great performance of forward Pringgo Regowo (190-F-87) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 14 points and 11 rebounds. Forward Khalif Akbar (193-87) contributed with 9 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. point guard Richardo Orlando Uniputty (163-87) answered with 14 points and 5 rebounds for Comfort Mobile. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Aspac keeps a position of league leader. Comfort Mobile lost third consecutive game. They keep the tenth place with 25 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.

Other games in round 49 were not that significant. Bima Sakti was beaten by Muba Hangtuah on the road 73-65. Pelita Jaya destroyed Pacific Caesar on its own court 70-43. Stadium Jak. unfortunately lost to CLS Knights in Surabaya 65-73.
The most impressive performance of 49th round was 14 points, 14 rebounds and 4 assists by Dian Heryadi of Muba Hangtuah.

Muba Hangtuah - Bima Sakti 73-65

No shocking result in a game when sixth ranked Muba Hangtuah (17-13) beat 8th ranked Bima Sakti (10-19) in Pandang 73-65 on Tuesday. The hosts trailed by 2 points at the halftime before their 35-25 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Muba Hangtuah outrebounded Bima Sakti 44-16 including a 29-8 advantage in defensive rebounds. Worth to mention a great performance of forward Ary Sapto (188-80) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 22 points and 11 rebounds. The former international power forward Dian Heryadi (194-80) contributed with a double-double by scoring 14 points, 14 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. Muba Hangtuah's coach Nathaniel Canson used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Yanuar Dwi Priasmoro (178-89) answered with 27 points and Bima Rizky Ardiansyah (182-90) added 13 points in the effort for Bima Sakti. Muba Hangtuah maintains sixth place with 17-13 record. Bima Sakti at the other side keeps the eighth position with 19 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Muba Hangtuah: A.Sapto 22+11reb, A.Sigar 16+2reb+5ast, D.Heryadi 14+14reb+4ast, T.Wilopo 7+2ast, A.Prasetyo 6+3reb, M.Joni 6+5reb+1ast
Bima Sakti: Y.Dwi Priasmoro 27+1reb+1ast, S.Cahyadi 13+4reb, B.Rizky Ardiansyah 13+4reb+1ast, D.Sartika 4+2reb+5ast, H.Gunawan 3+2ast, G.Virgian 3+2reb+1ast
gschID: 166190


Comfort Mobile - Aspac 38-77

The game between 10th ranked Comfort Mobile (6-25) and second ranked Aspac (26-5) in Jakarta on Tuesday ended with biggest points difference. Guests from Jakarta outscored Comfort Mobile 77-38. The game without a history. Aspac led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Comfort Mobile to just 6 points in second quarter. Aspac dominated down low during the game scoring 48 of its points in the paint compared to Comfort Mobile's 22. They outrebounded Comfort Mobile 54-20 including a 18-3 advantage in offensive rebounds. Worth to mention a great performance of forward Pringgo Regowo (190-87) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 14 points and 11 rebounds. Forward Khalif Akbar (193-87) contributed with 9 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. point guard Richardo Orlando Uniputty (163-87) answered with 14 points and 5 rebounds and Gabriel Sitaniapesy (185-85) added 7 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for Comfort Mobile. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Aspac keeps a position of league leader. Comfort Mobile lost third consecutive game. They keep the tenth place with 25 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Aspac: O.Wira Sanjaya 17, P.Regowo 14+11reb+1ast, R.Effendi 9+4reb+2ast, K.Akbar 9+7reb+2ast, S.Harun Nurman 8, F.Andika Ramadhani 5+2reb+2ast
Comfort Mobile: R.Orlando Uniputty 14+5reb+2ast, G.Sitaniapesy 7+5reb, H.Herlusdityo 6, A.Hermawan 5+2reb, P.Susanto 3+1reb, R.Rudini 2+2reb+1ast
gschID: 166187


Pelita Jaya - Pacific Caesar 70-43

Very expected game when 9th ranked Pacific Caesar (9-22) was smashed by fourth ranked Pelita Jaya (23-7) in Jakarta 70-43 on Tuesday. The game without a history. Pelita Jaya led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Pelita Jaya forced 20 Pacific Caesar turnovers. It was a very good performance for the former international forward Andi Poedjakesuma (187-80) who helped to win the game recording 19 points and 7 rebounds. International forward Ary Chandra (182-84) contributed with 14 points for the winners. Forward Gege Nagata (185-88) answered with 14 points and center Hery Listiyono (191-86) added 10 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Pacific Caesar. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Pelita Jaya have an impressive series of five victories in a row. Defending champion moved-up to third place, which they share with Garuda. Pacific Caesar lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the ninth position with 22 games lost. Pelita Jaya will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Pacific Caesar's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Surabaya CLS Knights.
Top scorers:
Pelita Jaya: A.Poedjakesuma 19+7reb+2ast, A.Chandra 14+3reb+2ast, D.Wenas 10+2reb+1ast, P.Indrawan 7+2reb, V.Palopo 4+2reb, Y.Amiraz 4+6reb+5ast
Pacific Caesar: G.Nagata 14+4reb, H.Listiyono 10+6reb, E.Sasmito 5+4reb, R.Anggakara 4+1reb, P.King Dhay 4+4reb+4ast, D.Galih 4+3reb+2ast
gschID: 166188


CLS Knights - Stadium Jak. 73-65

Rather predictable result when fifth ranked CLS Knights (20-10) won against 7th ranked Stadium Jakarta (16-14) in Surabaya 73-65 on Tuesday. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Stadium Jakarta won third quarter 17-6. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The game was decided in the last minutes when CLS Knights won last quarter 23-17. They also forced 20 Stadium Jakarta turnovers. It was a very good performance for Tony Agus (191-86) who helped to win the game recording 16 points and 7 rebounds. Wijaya Saputra (184-85) contributed with 15 points for the winners. Merio Ferdiansyah (176-85) answered with 20 points and point guard Fanny Budianto (170-83) added 11 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists in the effort for Stadium Jakarta. Four Stadium Jakarta players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. CLS Knights maintains fifth place with 20-10 record. Stadium Jakarta at the other side keeps the seventh position with 14 games lost. CLS Knights' supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Surabaya to the arena Pacific Caesar.
Top scorers:
CLS Knights: T.Agus 16+7reb+1ast, W.Saputra 15+4reb+2ast, A.Indrajaya 8+5reb+1ast, H.Sudjana 6+1reb+2ast, F.Freddy 6+9reb+2ast, J.Jeffry 5+2reb+1ast
Stadium Jak.: M.Ferdiansyah 20+4reb+2ast, A.Sujarwo 11+1reb, F.Budianto 11+5reb+5ast, R.Ariestedes 11+4reb+1ast, D.Leonardo 6+8reb+1ast, M.Wicaksono 4+3reb
gschID: 166189



*****************************************************
  IRAN   


WABA League: Mahram level title series - by Eurobasket News

Riyadi - Mahram 59:67

Mahram bounced back after the starting loss in WABA League Finals. The Iranian powerhouse celebrated the win in the second game of the series to level it at 1-1. Nikoloz Tskitishvili (212-C/F-83) exploded with 25 points and 18 rebounds to pace Mahram.
Riyadi stormed into the game. The hosts quickly gained a comfortable lead. They finished the opening quarter up by 8 points 26:18. But Mahram opened the second term with a 10:2 run to level things up at 28. Riyadi however surged back in front late in the half and registered a 38:33 halftime advantage. Mahram stunned the home team once again at the start of the next term. The visitors pulled ahead for a 43:41 lead. Riyadi tied things up at 52 with one quarter to go. But Mahram seemed determined as they spurred in front again in the final term and never allowed Riyadi to come back into this one again. Hamed Afagh (190-G-83) posted 13 points, while Samad Nik Khahbahrami (198-F-83) added 12 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Ahmed Moneim (205-C-76) answered with 17 points and 9 rebounds for Riyadi. Omar El Turk (188-G-81, college: Dawson Coll.) had 14 points in the losing effort.

Riyadi: Ahmed Moneim 17, Omar El Turk 14
Mahram: Nikoloz Tskitishvili 25+18 boards, Hamed Afagh 13, Samad Nik Khahbahrami 12


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

Loto League Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Adrian BANKS
  Elitzur .
  (191-G-86)
  Avg: 21.9
 1. Banks, Elitzur21.9 
 2. Landesberg, Macca.20.6 
 3. Crawford, Maccab.20.5 
 4. Carter, Bnei H.20.3 
 5. Lewis, Hapoel Holon19.6 
 6. Asbury, Elitzur18.8 
 7. Delaney, B.C. H.18.0 
 8. Travis, Galil Gilb.18.0 
 9. Dunn, Bnei Hashar.17.5 
 10. Bradley, Maccabi17.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Bryant DUNSTON
  Hapoel H.
  (202-F/C-86)
  Avg: 9.9
 1. Dunston, Hapoel H.9.9 
 2. Rosefelt, Bnei H.8.7 
 3. Duncan, Maccabi8.3 
 4. Bowman, Maccabi8.1 
 5. Tyus, Maccabi8.0 
 6. Asbury, Elitzur7.8 
 7. Killingswort., Iro.7.4 
 8. Uter, Maccabi7.1 
 9. Kitchen, Maccabi7.1 
 10. Dowell, B.C. H.7.0 
Assists Per Game
 Moran ROTH
  Hapoel Holon
  (183-PG-82)
  Avg: 8.1
 1. Roth, Hapoel Holon8.1 
 2. Tapiro, Maccabi7.3 
 3. Carter, Bnei H.6.9 
 4. Jackson, Maccabi5.5 
 5. Thomas, Galil Gilb.5.1 
 6. Ohayon, Maccabi4.7 
 7. Mitchell, Ironi A.4.6 
 8. Delaney, B.C. H.4.3 
 9. Limonad, Ironi A.4.2 
 10. Lifshitz, Elitzu.4.2 
Steals Per Game
 Raviv LIMONAD
  Ironi A.
  (192-G-84)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Limonad, Ironi A.2.1 
 2. Campbell, Elitzu.2.1 
 3. Kitchen, Maccabi2.0 
 4. Ohayon, Maccabi1.9 
 5. Robinson, B.C. H.1.9 
 6. Ben-Chimol, Maccab.1.9 
 7. Berkowitz, Ironi A.1.9 
 8. Mitchell, Ironi A.1.8 
 9. Yavzuri, Galil Gil.1.8 
 10. Delaney, B.C. H.1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Jarvis VARNADO
  Hapoel J.
  (206-F-88)
  Avg: 2
 1. Varnado, Hapoel J.2.0 
 2. Dunston, Hapoel H.1.8 
 3. Uter, Maccabi1.8 
 4. James, Maccabi T-A1.6 
 5. Hendrix, Maccabi1.3 
 6. Tyus, Maccabi1.2 
 7. Randle, Hapoel J-M1.1 
 8. Sullivan, Hapoel H.1.1 
 9. Powell, Maccabi Ha.1.0 
 10. Bowman, Maccabi0.9 


Standings - National League

National League Standings
 1. Hapoel T-A 21-4 
 2. Macc.B.Yaakov 19-6 
 3. Elitzur Yavne 18-7 
 4. Hapoel Afula 14-11 
 5. Ironi Nes-Ziona 14-11 
 6. Kiryat Tivon 13-12 
 7. Hod Hasharon 13-12 
 8. Ironi Ramat Gan 11-14 
 9. Elitzur Ramla 11-14 
 10. Ironi Nahariya 10-15 
 11. Ironi K-A 9-16 
 12. Hapoel K/S 8-17 
 13. Hapoel Y/M 7-18 
 14. Lev Hasharon 7-18 

Regular Season: Round 25

Apr. 3: Elitzur Yavne - Ironi K-A 98-93
Apr. 3: Hod Hasharon - Ironi Nes-Ziona 94-91 OT
Apr. 3: Hapoel Afula - Macc.B.Yaakov 93-91
Apr. 3: Lev Hasharon - Kiryat Tivon 90-96
Apr. 3: Elitzur Ramla - Ironi Nahariya 84-96
Apr. 3: Ironi Ramat Gan - Hapoel K/S 83-95
Apr. 3: Hapoel Y/M - Hapoel T-A 72-89

Regular Season: Round 26

Apr. 10: Ironi Nahariya - Hapoel Afula
Apr. 10: Macc.B.Yaakov - Lev Hasharon
Apr. 10: Kiryat Tivon - Ironi Ramat Gan
Apr. 10: Hapoel K/S - Hapoel Y/M
Apr. 10: Hapoel T-A - Elitzur Yavne
Apr. 10: Ironi K-A - Hod Hasharon
Apr. 10: Ironi Nes-Ziona - Elitzur Ramla


National League Round 25 of Regular Season - by Eurobasket News

Hod Hasharon (13-12) outlasted Ironi Nes-Ziona (14-11) in overtime by three points 94-91 on Tuesday night. It ended at the same time the five-game winning streak of Ironi Nes-Ziona. Anthony Johnson (203-F-88, college: Fairfield) stepped up and scored 30 points and 9 rebounds (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field) for the winners. Hod Hasharon moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Kiryat Tivon. Ironi Nes-Ziona at the other side keeps the fourth position with 11 games lost. Hod Hasharon will face Ironi Kiryat Ata (#11) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Ironi Nes-Ziona will play against Elitzur Ramla (#9).

In the last two games of round 25 Ironi Nahariya won against Elitzur Ramla on the opponent's court 96-84. Ironi Ramat Gan unfortunately lost to Hapoel K/S in a home game 83-95. Kiryat Tivon managed to beat Lev Hasharon on the road 96-90. Hapoel Afula defeated Macc.B.Yaakov on its own court 93-91. Ironi K-A was beaten by Elitzur Yavne in a road game 98-93. Bottom-ranked Hapoel Y/M lost to Hapoel T-A at home 72-89.
The most impressive stats of the last round was 39 points (!!!), 6 rebounds and 6 assists by Kobi Izik of Kiryat Tivon.

Elitzur Ramla - Ironi Nahariya 84-96

We cannot really consider it an upset in the game between close teams when 9th ranked Elitzur Ramla (11-14) was defeated at home by tenth ranked Ironi Nahariya (10-15) 96-84 on Tuesday. Elitzur Ramla was trailing by 7 points at halftime but managed to get 8-point lead after three quarters before a 30-10 charge of Ironi Nahariya, which allowed them to win the game. They made 16-of-21 free shots (76.2 percent) during the game. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. American swingman Marcus Ginyard (196-87, college: N.Carolina) stepped up and scored 27 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists for the winners and his fellow American import forward Eric Traimel (201-88, college: N.Texas) chipped in 23 points and 6 rebounds. At the losing side forward Michael Badalov (201-87) responded with 18 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists and American forward Stacey Moragne (195-83, college: Mass.-Lowell) scored 16 points and 4 assists. Four Ironi Nahariya and five Elitzur Ramla players scored in double figures. Elitzur Ramla's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Ironi Nahariya maintains tenth place with 10-15 record. Elitzur Ramla at the other side dropped to the eighth position with 14 games lost. Ironi Nahariya will face higher ranked Hapoel Afula (#4) at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
Top scorers:
Elitzur Ramla: M.Badalov 18+8reb+4ast, S.Moragne 16+4reb+4ast, R.Bacon 16+5reb+2ast, O.Cohen 15+4reb+1ast, I.Berkowitz 11+4reb+8ast, I.Rejwan 3+1reb
Ironi Nahariya: M.Ginyard 27+9reb+6ast, E.Traimel 23+6reb+3ast, E.Saudai 12+2ast, J.Baze 11+1ast, A.Eliyahu 8+1reb+6ast, O.Ben Hemo 6+3reb+2ast
gschID: 145362


Ironi Ramat Gan - Hapoel K/S 83-95

There was a surprise result when thirteenth ranked Hapoel Kfar Saba (8-17) defeated on the road higher ranked Ironi Ramat Gan (11-14) 95-83 on Tuesday. The guests trailed by 5 points at the halftime before their 53-36 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Hapoel Kfar Saba made 23-of-28 free shots (82.1 percent) during the game. Ironi Ramat Gan was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. American guard Errick McCollum (185-88, college: Goshen, agency: Gross Zeev ISA) stepped up and scored 27 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists for the winners and forward Eitan Rotemberg (197-91) chipped in 21 points and 6 rebounds. At the losing side American forward Rodney Webb (200-83, college: Florida Atlantic) responded with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 14 rebounds and the former international power forward Amit Tamir (208-79, college: California) scored 16 points and 9 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Hapoel Kfar Saba moved-up to twelfth place. Ironi Ramat Gan at the other side keeps the eighth position with 14 games lost. Hapoel Kfar Saba will face Hapoel Yokneam/Megido (#13) at home in the next round.
Top scorers:
Ironi Ramat Gan: D.Davidi 22+1reb+3ast, Y.Yatzkan 18+1reb, A.Tamir 16+9reb+2ast, R.Webb 15+14reb+2ast, T.Bannister 7+3reb+7ast, L.Rubinstein 5+1reb+4ast
Hapoel K/S: E.McCollum 27+9reb+5ast, E.Rotemberg 21+6reb, M.Moses 11+5reb+2ast, O.Ron 10+3reb+5ast, H.Karni 8+3reb+1ast, A.Harush 6+1ast
gschID: 145359


Lev Hasharon - Kiryat Tivon 90-96

Not a big story in a game when 12th ranked Lev Hasharon (7-18) was defeated at home by sixth ranked Kiryat Tivon (13-12) 96-90 on Tuesday. Kiryat Tivon looked well-organized offensively handing out 25 assists. Power forward Kobi Izik (204-83) stepped up and scored 39 points (!!!), 6 rebounds and 6 assists (on 16-of-19 shooting from the field) for the winners and American-Puerto Rican Ramon Clemente (200-85, college: Wichita St.) chipped in 12 points and 14 rebounds. At the losing side American forward Grady Reynolds (198-80, college: St.John's, agency: Strategic Sports) responded with a double-double by scoring 24 points and 11 rebounds (on 10-of-13 shooting from the field) and the other American import swingman Shawn Ray (194-80, college: N.C.Central) scored 22 points and 6 rebounds. Five Kiryat Tivon and four Lev Hasharon players scored in double figures. Kiryat Tivon maintains sixth place with 13-12 record, which they share with Hod Hasharon. Lev Hasharon lost sixth consecutive game. They dropped to the bottom position with 18 games lost. Kiryat Tivon will face Ironi Ramat Gan (#8) at home in the next round. Lev Hasharon will play against the league's second-placed Beer Yaakov (#2).
Top scorers:
Lev Hasharon: G.Reynolds 24+11reb, S.Ray 22+6reb+3ast, A.Kazarnovski 13+5reb+2ast, O.Rub 11+2reb+5ast, U.Gur 7+2reb+6ast, B.Sharoni 6+1reb
Kiryat Tivon: K.Izik 39+6reb+6ast, J.Gomes 13+7reb+5ast, V.Gandlin 12+1reb+3ast, R.Clemente 12+14reb+3ast, M.Shamis 11+8reb+4ast, E.Solomoviz 6+1ast
gschID: 145360


Hapoel Afula - Macc.B.Yaakov 93-91

There was a small surprise when fifth ranked Hapoel Afula (14-11) edged at home much higher ranked Beer Yaakov (19-6) 93-91 on Tuesday. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 29-22. But Beer Yaakov won second period 26-24. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Hapoel Afula looked well-organized offensively handing out 24 assists. Swingman Elad Eliyah (193-85) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 19 points and 10 rebounds for the winners and American swingman Roy Booker (191-84, college: SE Missouri St.) chipped in 21 points and 5 assists (made all of his nine free throws !!!). At the losing side American guard Nate Miller (193-87, college: Bowling Green) responded with 24 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists and 5 steals and point guard Yoad Bet-Yosef (182-87) scored 20 points and 6 assists (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field). Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Hapoel Afula have a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Ironi Nes-Ziona. Beer Yaakov at the other side keeps the second position with six games lost. Hapoel Afula will face Ironi Nahariya (#10) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Beer Yaakov will play against Lev Hasharon (#14).
Top scorers:
Macc.B.Yaakov: N.Miller 24+6reb+5ast, Y.Bet-Yosef 20+2reb+6ast, J.Hall 15+6reb+3ast, I.Simin 14+4reb, C.Watson 8+4reb+1ast, D.Housman 7+1reb+5ast
Hapoel Afula: R.Booker 21+1reb+5ast, E.Eliyah 19+10reb+3ast, E.Knafo 17+5reb+1ast, G.Cohen 17+4reb+4ast, O.Blayzer 8+8reb+1ast, H.Shifman 7+2reb+6ast
gschID: 145361


Hod Hasharon - Ironi Nes-Ziona 94-91 OT

Hod Hasharon (13-12) outlasted Ironi Nes-Ziona (14-11) in overtime by three points 94-91 on Tuesday night. It ended at the same time the five-game winning streak of Ironi Nes-Ziona. The hosts trailed by 8 points after first quarter, but they rallied back and won the game in overtime by 3 points. Hod Hasharon made 25-of-31 free shots (80.6 percent) during the game. They also forced 20 Ironi Nes-Ziona turnovers. Ironi Nes-Ziona was plagued by 27 personal fouls down the stretch. American forward Anthony Johnson (203-88, college: Fairfield) stepped up and scored 30 points and 9 rebounds (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field) for the winners and Puerto Rican point guard Javier Gonzalez (182-89, college: N.Carolina St.) chipped in 24 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals. At the losing side naturalized Welsh forward Tal Michael Dunne (197-87) responded with a double-double by scoring 25 points and 11 rebounds and American forward Gabe Blair (203-87, college: Wichita St.) produced a double-double by scoring 24 points and 12 rebounds. Five Hod Hasharon and four Ironi Nes-Ziona players scored in double figures. Hod Hasharon moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Kiryat Tivon. Ironi Nes-Ziona at the other side keeps the fourth position with 11 games lost. Hod Hasharon will face Ironi Kiryat Ata (#11) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Ironi Nes-Ziona will play against Elitzur Ramla (#9).
Top scorers:
Ironi Nes-Ziona: T.Michael Dunne 25+11reb+3ast, G.Blair 24+12reb+3ast, B.Benn 17+9reb+2ast, D.Assaf 11+4reb+3ast, T.Karpeles 6+4reb+2ast, D.Bank 6+5reb+2ast
Hod Hasharon: A.Johnson 30+9reb, J.Gonzalez 24+8reb+4ast, A.Skverer 11+5reb+3ast, J.Mintz 10+6reb, G.Gandel 10+8reb, O.Winter 4+5reb+3ast
gschID: 145356


Elitzur Yavne - Ironi K-A 98-93

There was no surprise when 11th ranked Ironi Kiryat Ata (9-16) was defeated on the road by third ranked Elitzur Yavne (18-7) 98-93 on Tuesday. However just five-point win is not that big difference and the fans of host team counted on more convincing victory. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Ironi Kiryat Ata won third quarter 25-20. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Elitzur Yavne made 21-of-27 free shots (77.8 percent) during the game. They also forced 22 Ironi Kiryat Ata turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 26 assists. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Elitzur Yavne made 11 blocks. Ironi Kiryat Ata was plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. Guard Nir Golan (180-86) stepped up and scored 25 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists for the winners and American swingman Brian Laing (195-85, college: Seton Hall, agency: I.D.S. Law) chipped in 19 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. At the losing side American forward Lenny Daniel (201-87, college: CS Northridge) responded with a double-double by scoring 25 points and 10 rebounds and the other American import forward Tony Younger (200-80, college: Spring Hill, agency: Gross Zeev ISA) scored 21 points. Five Elitzur Yavne and four Ironi Kiryat Ata players scored in double figures. Elitzur Yavne maintains third place with 18-7 record having just three points less than leader Hapoel T-A. Newly promoted Ironi Kiryat Ata keeps the eleventh position with 16 games lost. Elitzur Yavne will face league's leader Hapoel Tel-Aviv on the road in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Ironi Kiryat Ata will play against Hod Hasharon (#7).
Top scorers:
Ironi K-A: L.Daniel 25+10reb+2ast, T.Younger 21+4reb+3ast, L.Moran 16+7reb+2ast, R.Elbaz 10+5reb+3ast, D.Peterson 7+2reb, I.Nanikashvili 7+3reb+15ast
Elitzur Yavne: N.Golan 25+5reb+6ast, B.Laing 19+7reb+4ast, E.Hofman 19+3reb+7ast, E.Engel 12+6reb+5ast, Z.Volfer 10+7reb+4ast, Y.Levi 8+2reb
gschID: 145357


Hapoel Y/M - Hapoel T-A 72-89

No shocking result in a game when first ranked Hapoel Tel-Aviv (21-4) won against on the road 14th ranked Hapoel Yokneam/Megido (7-18) 89-72 on Tuesday. Hapoel Yokneam/Megido was trailing by 9 points at halftime but managed to get 1-point lead after three quarters before a 26-8 charge of Hapoel Tel-Aviv, which allowed them to win the game. They dominated down low during the game scoring 54 of its points in the paint compared to Hapoel Yokneam/Megido's 30 and made 20-of-26 free shots (76.9 percent) during the game. Hapoel Yokneam/Megido was plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. Point guard Gal Eytan (183-87, agency: Gross Zeev ISA) stepped up and scored 22 points and 4 assists (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field) for the winners and American Curtis Kelly (205-88, college: Kansas St.) chipped in 21 points and 4 blocks (on 10-of-11 shooting from the field). At the losing side American power forward Rahshon Turner (201-75, college: Fair Dickinson) responded with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 10 rebounds (made all of his eight free throws) and swingman Inam Eiram (194-88) scored 16 points and 4 assists. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Hapoel Tel-Aviv maintains first place with 21-4 record. Hapoel Yokneam/Megido lost fourth consecutive game. They dropped to the thirteenth position with 18 games lost. Hapoel Tel-Aviv will face Elitzur Yavne (#3) at home in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Hapoel Yokneam/Megido will play against Hapoel Kfar Saba (#12) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Hapoel Y/M: R.Turner 18+10reb+1ast, S.Bozeman 18+3reb+1ast, I.Eiram 16+2reb+4ast, M.Zalmanovich 10+4reb+1ast, I.Stolero 6+2reb, T.Ber-Aven 3+1reb+4ast
Hapoel T-A: G.Eytan 22+1reb+4ast, C.Kelly 21+4reb, B.Timor 17+2reb+3ast, C.Carr 11+10reb+2ast, D.Stitt 7+5reb+6ast, J.Skjoldebrand 7+2ast
gschID: 145358



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


Bennet Cantu : Vladimir Micov underwent surgery - by Giovanni Bargna

Vladimir Micov (203-F-85, agency: Beo Basket), serbian forward playing for Bennet Cantu, underwent surgery early today. The player has been facing an issue at his left knee for months and he missed some italian league games and the crucial eurolegue TOP16 battle against Barcelona lost by Cantu at the Paladesio. An arthroscopy knee surgery was performed in order to clean and smooth the inside of the knee early today.
Micov and the team decided together to do this now just to make the recovery period completed within the playoffs start.
As per the medical prediction the serbian will be completely recovered in 40 days, but his conditions will be evaluated constantly in the upcoming period.


Brindisi, Hunter out for five weeks - by Andrea Centenari

Bad news for Enel Brindisi. After some medical exams, Jimmy Hunter (197-G-77, college: Life) will be not able to play until five weeks. The american guard got injured in the last Legadue game against Tezenis Verona. Jimmy Hunter had a sprain left knee.
In this season he was averaging 15,4 points and 2,6 assists per game.
Now Brindisi is on the market looking for a new guard to replace Jimmy Hunter for the latest regular season game and for the upcoming playoffs.


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


Trepca plays tonight against Kosova - by Dren Shporta

The 24 round of BKT Superliga will start tonight with a match between league leaders Trepca and struggling Kosova from Vushtrri. The match will be played at Minatori court in Mitrovica, and green boys are ready for the match that seems to be non problematic for them.

Ilir Selmanis boys, are physically in this match but with minds at Sundays match against their arch rivals Sigal Prishtina. Trepca is looking forward to keep the first place in the classification so they can have the advantage of home court during play-offs. Trepca has actually 21 victories registered and only two defeats, both of them from reigning champions, Sigal Prishtina.

Other matches of Round 24 will be played tomorrow where the most interesting one is Bashkim against Kolegji Univers.



*****************************************************
  KUWAIT   


Big Losses for Qadsia - by Jasmien Nanhekhan

Big losses for Al-Qadsia

First loss for the team was losing Abdullah Al Sarraf (190-F-82, agency: Pro Management Agency) who is now recovering from his injury.
Next to this Al Qadsia has released Lee Benson (208-F/C-73, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Brown Mackie) who was number one in blocks and rebounds.
Lee Benson: 'Too bad that the players did not give me a chance to show that I am a scorer; this could have definitely made a difference in the games.
Qadsia decided to bring back Joel Box (205-C-84, agency: Pro Management Agency, college: Quincy) who has played for Al-Qadsia before; this could be a plus since he knows most of the players and their mentality.



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

Standings - LBAL

LBL2 Standings
 1. Barons kvartals 28-2 
 2. BK VEF 27-3 
 3. Liepaja-2 25-4 
 4. Saldus 21-8 
 5. VEF Kadeti 18-12 
 6. RSU 16-11 
 7. VA 16-14 
 8. DSN 15-13 
 9. BS Riga 14-13 
 10. Livani 9-19 
 11. Ogres 8-20 
 12. Valmiera BSS 8-21 
 13. Jelgava/LLU 8-21 
 14. Cesis 8-22 
 15. Gulbene 6-23 
 16. Ridzene 4-25 

Regular Season: Round 36

Apr. 2: BS Riga - Barons kvartals 83-100
Apr. 3: BK VEF - Ogres 76-62
Apr. 3: Valmiera BSS - VEF Kadeti 62-84
Apr. 4: Gulbene - BS Riga
Apr. 4: DSN - Ridzene
Apr. 5: Barons kvartals - Cesis
Apr. 5: RSU - Valmiera BSS
Apr. 6: Liepaja-2 - DSN



*****************************************************
  LEBANON   

Standings - Division A

Div.A Standings
 1. Champville 23-2 
 2. Al Riyadi 23-3 
 3. Anibal 17-8 
 4. Sagesse 12-14 
 5. Byblos 10-15 
 6. Moutahed 9-16 
 7. Bejjeh 8-17 
 8. Hoops 6-19 


Stats Leaders - Men

Points Per Game
 Desmond PENIGAR
  Byblos
  (201-F-81)
  Avg: 28.5
 1. Penigar, Byblos28.5 
 2. Khatib, Champville26.8 
 3. Spencer, Al Riyadi25.4 
 4. Gray, Byblos24.2 
 5. Johnson, Sagesse22.9 
 6. Youngblood, Anibal21.6 
 7. Johnson, Moutahed20.8 
 8. Hoskin, Champville19.7 
 9. Souaid, Bejjeh18.9 
 10. Thompson, Champvi.17.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Desmond PENIGAR
  Byblos
  (201-F-81)
  Avg: 12.1
 1. Penigar, Byblos12.1 
 2. Ismail, Al Riyadi11.4 
 3. Crump, Sagesse11.2 
 4. Thompson, Champvil.11.1 
 5. Hoskin, Champville9.9 
 6. Trim, Moutahed9.2 
 7. Hamdar, Hoops9.0 
 8. Bawji, Moutahed8.5 
 9. Bou Abboud, Bejjeh7.6 
 10. Johnson, Sagesse7.4 
Assists Per Game
 Ali MAHMOUD
  Al Riyadi
  (185-G-83)
  Avg: 6.5
 1. Mahmoud, Al Riyadi6.5 
 2. Akl, Anibal6.3 
 3. Ismail, Al Riyadi5.5 
 4. Gray, Byblos5.5 
 5. Khatib, Champville5.4 
 6. Johnson, Moutahed5.4 
 7. Johnson, Sagesse4.8 
 8. Spencer, Al Riyadi4.4 
 9. Barada, Byblos4.0 
 10. Youngblood, Anibal3.7 
Steals Per Game
 Jasmon YOUNGBLOOD
  Anibal
  (195-G-84)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Youngblood, Anibal2.9 
 2. Mahmoud, Al Riyadi2.7 
 3. Johnson, Moutahed2.4 
 4. Estephane, Champvi.2.3 
 5. Spencer, Al Riyadi2.1 
 6. Akl, Anibal1.7 
 7. Bou Abboud, Bejjeh1.6 
 8. Thompson, Champvil.1.6 
 9. Johnson, Sagesse1.6 
 10. Ismail, Al Riyadi1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Ahmad ISMAIL
  Al Riyadi
  (205-F-76)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Ismail, Al Riyadi1.9 
 2. Hamdar, Hoops1.8 
 3. Crump, Sagesse1.6 
 4. Thompson, Champvil.1.5 
 5. Sabra, Byblos1.4 
 6. Youngblood, Anibal1.2 
 7. Hoskin, Champville1.1 
 8. Tabet, Anibal1.0 
 9. Bou Abboud, Bejjeh1.0 
 10. Penigar, Byblos0.9 


Akkari breaks into the 100-plus point club! - by Maarouf Mawloud



URL : http://www.fibaasia.net/NewsDetails.aspx?id=2113
BEIRUT, Lebanon (WABA League): Mohamad Akary (188-G-85) of Moutahed joined the very rare group of players to score more than 100 points in a game on Tuesday, when he reeled in 113 points in the Tripoli sides 173-141 win against Bejjeh in a Lebanese Division A League Final 8 game.

As per records available, this is first instance of a player scoring more than 100 points in an official game played in any of the leagues in FIBA Asia National Federations.

The only two other instances of more than 100 points in a single game in Asia are when Lou Salvador scored 116 points for the Philippines against China in the 1923 Far Eastern Games and Jeron Teng scored 104 points for Xavier School against Grace Christian College in a High School game in the Philipines.

According to the Guinness Book of World Records the highest ever individual score is the 272 points when Swede Mats Wermelin, as a 13-year-old boy, scored all the points in a game in a regional school tournament in Stockholm.

Akkari, a 27-year-old guard had a none-too-impressive season with Moutahed his seventh successive season with the Tripoli club averaging 7.6 points in the 23 games he had played till Tuesday.

But this night belonged to Akkari as he sent all the scoring records out of the roof with his stellar show.

Akkari reeled in an incredible 32 three-pointers out of 59 attempts in an overall 40/69 field shooting and a solitary free-throw

Thank god for this performance. I think its all a result of my practice, Akkari said from team bus on his way back to Tripoli.

I also want to thank my coach for letting me play that long and all my teammates for helping, he added.

Coach Ahmad Fadel was high on praise on Akkari.

Hes a phenomenal but very underrated shooter. He puts in a lot of hard work in practice. I am not surprised, Fadel said.

Akkaris American teammate Austin Johnson too was all praise for him.

He was awesome tonight. He starting out shooting the ball very well and just continued to go. Our team realized that he was on fire so we kept feeding him the ball. Congrats to Akkari on a record-setting night. He deserves it from the way he works and stays focused, Johnson said.

Click here for a List of Most points scored in a game in FIBA Competitions

FIBA Asia

(Reporting Inputs from Maarouf Mawloud in Beirut)




WABA League: Mahram level title series - by Eurobasket News

Riyadi - Mahram 59:67

Mahram bounced back after the starting loss in WABA League Finals. The Iranian powerhouse celebrated the win in the second game of the series to level it at 1-1. Nikoloz Tskitishvili (212-C/F-83) exploded with 25 points and 18 rebounds to pace Mahram.
Riyadi stormed into the game. The hosts quickly gained a comfortable lead. They finished the opening quarter up by 8 points 26:18. But Mahram opened the second term with a 10:2 run to level things up at 28. Riyadi however surged back in front late in the half and registered a 38:33 halftime advantage. Mahram stunned the home team once again at the start of the next term. The visitors pulled ahead for a 43:41 lead. Riyadi tied things up at 52 with one quarter to go. But Mahram seemed determined as they spurred in front again in the final term and never allowed Riyadi to come back into this one again. Hamed Afagh (190-G-83) posted 13 points, while Samad Nik Khahbahrami (198-F-83) added 12 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Ahmed Moneim (205-C-76) answered with 17 points and 9 rebounds for Riyadi. Omar El Turk (188-G-81, college: Dawson Coll.) had 14 points in the losing effort.

Riyadi: Ahmed Moneim 17, Omar El Turk 14
Mahram: Nikoloz Tskitishvili 25+18 boards, Hamed Afagh 13, Samad Nik Khahbahrami 12


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

Stats Leaders - NKL

Points Per Game
 Sarunas VINGELIS
  LKKA-.
  (192-G-89)
  Avg: 21.4
 1. Vingelis, LKKA-.21.4 
 2. Uzkuraitis, Delika.18.9 
 3. Birgelis, Matinga-.18.4 
 4. Rakauskas, Radvili.18.1 
 5. Jucikas, AB.17.8 
 6. Maneikis, Meresta17.4 
 7. Varnelis, S.Marc.17.3 
 8. Sragauskis, LKKA-.17.2 
 9. Giedraitis, ABRO-.16.1 
 10. Lengvinas, Nafta15.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Tautvydas SLEZAS
  Delikatesas
  (207-C-90)
  Avg: 11
 1. Slezas, Delikatesas11.0 
 2. Gudaitis, Gargzdai10.8 
 3. Ambrulaitis, Ezeru.8.1 
 4. Mineikis, Radvilis.8.0 
 5. Urbonas, LK.7.8 
 6. Mockevicius, S.Mar.7.6 
 7. Kazakauskas, Naft.7.5 
 8. Linkevicius, Triob.7.4 
 9. Jucikas, AB.7.4 
 10. Pikalavicius, Del.7.3 
Assists Per Game
 Matas SAPIEGA
  LK.
  (179-PG-90)
  Avg: 8.1
 1. Sapiega, LK.8.1 
 2. Kurauskas, AB.5.3 
 3. Razutis, Silute5.1 
 4. Semaska, Perla.4.7 
 5. Malasauskas, LKKA.4.5 
 6. Bitinas, S.Marciu.4.4 
 7. Kuklierius, Mating.4.4 
 8. Vileita, Perla.4.3 
 9. Vasiliauskas, Trio.4.3 
 10. Birgelis, Matinga.4.2 
Steals Per Game
 Ignas RAZUTIS
  Silute
  (185-G-87)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Razutis, Silute2.9 
 2. Vileita, Perla.2.4 
 3. Brown, Mazeikiai2.3 
 4. Slivka, Meresta2.1 
 5. Paliukenas, S.Marc.1.9 
 6. Uzkuraitis, Delika.1.9 
 7. Jogela, Zalgir.1.8 
 8. Budzinauskas, Sta.1.8 
 9. Vasiliauskas, Trio.1.8 
 10. Birgelis, Matinga.1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Tomas URBONAS
  LK.
  (218-C-92)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. Urbonas, LK.2.7 
 2. Mockevicius, S.Mar.1.9 
 3. Gudaitis, Gargzdai1.7 
 4. Gudaitis, Nafta U.1.4 
 5. Ramanauskas, Garg.1.4 
 6. Kaubrys, Silute1.3 
 7. Jucikas, AB.1.1 
 8. Krestinin, S.Marc.1.1 
 9. Ramanauskas, Sil.1.0 
 10. Kymantas, Zalgir.1.0 


NKL Round 3 of Quarter-Finals - by Eurobasket News

Nafta Universitetas - Delikatesas 76-74

Nafta Universitetas narrowly defeated Delikatesas at home court to advance into semifinals. Delikatesas was trailing by 1 point at halftime but managed to get 3-point lead after three quarters before a 26-21 charge of Nafta Universitetas, which allowed them to win the game. Nafta Universitetas outrebounded Delikatesas 48-27 including a 23-6 advantage in offensive rebounds. It was a great evening for guard Modestas Kumpys (191-G-91) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 14 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists. Forward Viktoras Chodosovskis (200-89) helped adding 17 points. Four Nafta Universitetas players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was center Tautvydas Slezas (207-90, agency: Interperformances) with a double-double by scoring 22 points, 14 rebounds and 5 assists and guard Vidmantas Uzkuraitis (189-85) scored 23 points and 4 assists.
Top scorers:
Delikatesas: V.Uzkuraitis 23+1reb+4ast, T.Slezas 22+14reb+5ast, A.Kvedaravicius 12+4reb+4ast, P.Klemas 6+3reb, Z.Petraitis 6+1reb+1ast, I.Lianzbergas 3+3reb+1ast
Nafta Universitetas: V.Chodosovskis 17+4reb, M.Kumpys 14+11reb+4ast, H.Venskus 13+4reb+3ast, P.Zurna 13+4reb, J.Kazakauskas 8+13reb, D.Anuzis 7+3reb+3ast
gschID: 173433


Matinga-Juod. - Zalgiris-Sabonio 87-93

Zalgiris-Sabonio will play in the semis after they stole a road win over Suduva in the decisive third game of the series. It looked good early as Matinga-Juod. took an 11-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Zalgiris-Sabonio took control and eventually winning the game that evening by 6 points. They shot the lights out from three nailing 13 long-distance shots on high 56.5 percentage. Matinga-Juod. was plagued by 29 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a quality performance for forward Rolandas Jakstas (200-92) who led the winners and scored 17 points and 6 rebounds. Forward Marius Grigonis (194-94) accounted for 13 points and 5 assists for the winning side. Zalgiris-Sabonio's coach Tomas Masiulis allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Guard Zilvinas Kuklierius (180-85) came up with 18 points and 6 assists and guard Aurimas Birgelis (190-88) added 18 points respectively for Matinga-Juod. in the defeat. Four Zalgiris-Sabonio and five Matinga-Juod. players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Matinga-Juod.: A.Birgelis 18+4reb+3ast, Z.Kuklierius 18+2reb+6ast, A.Zibuda 16+1reb, M.Valukonis 12+5reb, A.Krivonis 12+4reb+3ast, M.Kalvelis 6+5reb
Zalgiris-Sabonio: J.Tamulis 18+2reb, R.Jakstas 17+6reb+2ast, M.Grigonis 13+4reb+5ast, T.Dimsa 12+5reb+3ast, N.Barauskas 10+3reb+2ast, V.Kariniauskas 8+6reb+5ast
gschID: 173434



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


Siggiewi and Depiro force deciders - by Eurobasket News

Siggiewi stayed alive in the semifinal series versus Athleta. They claimed a 69:64 home win in Game 2 to level things up at 1-1. The decisive third game is scheduled on April 7. Siggiewi stayed in control during the home game. They posted a 19:16 lead after ten minutes. The margin grew at 5-point mark at halftime 39:34. Athleta stiffened defence in the second half cutting the gap to 3 points with one quarter remaining. But Siggiewi knocked down 19 points in the fourth period to seal the victory at the end. Marko Matijevic (200-F-78) accounted for 28 points for Siggiewi. Chris Meier (198-F, college: Saddleback JC) contributed 17 points in the win. Omar Said (177-PG-80) responded with 21 points for Athleta. Marko Todorovic (204-F/C-85) netted 14 points in the loss.
Depiro overcame Floriana 69:52 to head into the third game in the series. Floriana enjoyed a 15:11 lead after ten minutes but Depiro took over in the second quarter. They piled up a 29:27 halftime lead. The teams stayed close throughout the third term however the hosts went on a 21:8 run in the fourth quarter to clear off. Adrian Micallef (190-F-79) accounted for 17 points, while Greg Hamlin (201-F-86, college: E.Tenn.St.) added 14 points for the winners. Evan Fjeld (203-F-88, agency: Interperformances, college: Vermont) reacted with 29 points for Floriana.


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

Standings - CIBACOPA

CIBACOPA Standings
 1. Guaymas 11-3 
 2. Hermosillo 11-3 
 3. Tijuana 10-3 
 4. Nogales 10-5 
 5. Cananea 6-8 
 6. Guasave 6-8 
 7. Navolato 6-9 
 8. Los Mochis 5-9 
 9. Culiacan 5-9 
 10. Tepic 0-13 

Regular Season: Round 15

Apr. 2: Nogales - Navolato 90-83
Apr. 3: Tijuana - Guaymas
Apr. 3: Los Mochis - Cananea
Apr. 3: Guasave - Hermosillo
Apr. 3: Culiacan - Tepic
Apr. 3: Nogales - Navolato


CIBACOPA Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 O''Louis MCCULLOUGH
  Nogales
  (198-G/F-82)
  Avg: 22.9
 1. McCullough, Nogales22.9 
 2. Thomas, Cananea20.2 
 3. Robinson, Culiacan20.1 
 4. Selleaze, Navolato19.9 
 5. Wiley, Los Mochis19.4 
 6. Quintero, Tijuana19.0 
 7. Gibson, Navolato17.7 
 8. Harris, Cananea17.5 
 9. Giron, Guasave17.3 
 10. Johnson, Guaymas17.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jamil TERRELL
  Tepic
  (200-F/C-80)
  Avg: 10.7
 1. Terrell, Tepic10.7 
 2. Selleaze, Navolato9.7 
 3. Clay, Los Mochis9.4 
 4. Sanders-F., Nogales9.1 
 5. Robinson, Culiacan8.6 
 6. Lopez, Hermosillo7.9 
 7. McCullough, Nogales7.5 
 8. Zamora, Culiacan7.4 
 9. Little, Hermosillo6.7 
 10. Wiley, Los Mochis6.6 
Assists Per Game
 Hector NUNGARAY
  Guaymas
  (178-PG-78)
  Avg: 6.2
 1. Nungaray, Guaymas6.2 
 2. Taylor, Los Mochis5.5 
 3. Monreal, Hermosillo5.1 
 4. George, Nogales4.1 
 5. Pulido, Culiacan3.5 
 6. Quintero, Tijuana3.4 
 7. Heredia, Nogales3.2 
 8. McCullough, Nogales3.2 
 9. Harris, Cananea3.1 
 10. McSwine, Navolato2.9 
Steals Per Game
 Ravone GEORGE
  Nogales
  (193-G-83)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. George, Nogales2.4 
 2. Thomas, Cananea1.8 
 3. Gibson, Navolato1.5 
 4. Monreal, Hermosillo1.5 
 5. Heredia, Nogales1.4 
 6. Buelna, Guasave1.3 
 7. Giron, Guasave1.3 
 8. Pulido, Culiacan1.2 
 9. Reatiga, Navolato1.2 
 10. Waller, Cananea1.1 
Blocks Per Game
 Sylvester SEAY
  Tijuana
  (208-F-85)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Seay, Tijuana1.8 
 2. Habel, Guaymas1.3 
 3. Clay, Los Mochis1.1 
 4. Johnson, Guaymas1.1 
 5. Zamora, Culiacan0.9 
 6. Robinson, Culiacan0.8 
 7. Carrillo, Guaymas0.8 
 8. Terrell, Tepic0.8 
 9. Wiley, Los Mochis0.8 
 10. McCullough, Nogal.0.8 



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


Balkan League: Unlucky Mornar defeated at home and eliminated in the Quarterfinals - by Darko Pekic

The defending Balkan League champion, KK Feni Industries stopped KK Mornar in the Quarterfinals after a dramatic finish (82:83 for Feni). Mornar had a chance to tie the score and decide the duel in Macedonia where the final game shoudl have been played. They even had the lead during the most of the match but coach Mihajlo Pavicevic 's boys blowed everthing in the last couple of minutes.

The game was tied but Mornar played fine and had a nice +5 lead at the halftime. They maintained the lead until the last quarter when the guest from Macedonia started playing harder. Feni made an 8-2 run, decreasing the difference down to four points 72:68 with 5.54 left in the fourt quarter. They did not stop there and made another scoring run, making six points, against just two for Mornar, to make the score tied at 74:74. Darko Sokolov (190-G-86) made one of two free-throws, giving Feni their second lead of the game 74:75. Mike Singletary (198-F-88, college: Texas Tech) scored two free-throws, giving Mornar a 76:75 lead, before Dusan Knezevic (207-C-80, agency: BeoExcell) scored for 76:77 (1 minute before the end). Ivan Jelenic (190-SG-85, agency: BeoExcell) converted two free-throws (78:77), and after a miss by Darko Sokolov, Mike Singletary scored two more points 80:77 25 seconds before the end. Jarrid Frye (194-G/F-85, college: Sacred Heart) made one free-throw (80:78) and missed the second, but after an offensive rebound, Ivan Lilov (196-F/G-88) tied the game at 80:80 with 6 seconds remaining. Lazar Radosavljevic (204-F-91, agency: Beo Basket) gave Mornar an 82:80 lead, but Ivan Lilov responded with a last-second three-point shot, giving Feni the win 82:83. A big win for the champions...

Once again Ivan Lilov was the top perfomer for Feni - 21 points, 5 assists and 2 steals. Dusan Knezevic added 20 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists, while Jarrid Frye finished with 13 points, 4 assists and 7 rebounds. Kiril Nikolovski (210-C/F-88) also scored 13 points. For the home team Ivan Jelenic scored 24 points and had 6 assists, while Mike Singletary scored 13 points, added 5 rebounds and had 3 assists.


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


T.G.I. Fridays and Raja Cup Game - by Christopher Rodgers

Assalamu Alaykum Hello everyone,

Wasup world, your probably wondering why i got tgif's posted as my title blog. Well after the win on saturday my teammate from the cameroonian national team and I went out to T.G.I. fridays for dinner Notably Parfait Bitee (188-G-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Rhode Island); Shot out to the homie for coming out to watch my game showin love appreciate it homeboi;

Now to the average westerner they would be surprised to hear that there's american restaurants like T.G.I. fridays in morocco. People of course would assume the obvious one's like, mac do or pizza hut;
Actually, the food was pretty of good. Casablanca has alot of nice restaurants as well as outlet spots right next to beach for shopping. The mall here which is the biggest in all of morocco is full of designer stores and very expensive shops; Great vacation mall to go and check out.

Basketball:

Saturday's game against Raja was once again a dogfight. Surprisely, the game actually went exactely how it happen the last time we played them. With there backs against the wall I new it would be a hard game from beginning to end. And just like the last game i was able to really give the team a boost at the right moments with 3 consective shots and defensive plays that helped us get over the hump as we pulled away down the stretch taking the game by 10points. My teammates this game really looked for me especially when i started heating up during the match. I was very pleased with how i came out of gates in attack mode; al hamdoulilah! I knew right away i was going to have a good night because the very first shot i took was money 'N da Bank' and i knew from then on I was going to step on there necks and apply pressure the whole night after that.
But Still at the of the day hats off to Raja's team; you Got to give there team, the players, the coaching staff and their entire organization alot of credit for there competitive spirit; They are a past championship organization so i expected nothing less than a tough match and they showed that in how they fought to the end. As we ended their season, our season lives for another day.
All praise be to Allah the one true God! The Creator of the heavens and earth. Maybe your reading this and thinking I'm saying 'thank God' like you hear all athletes saying in press interviews or at award shows. No! Its not the same thing. When i say it; it has different meaning to it because im saying it as a muslim. I'm thankful of every second, of every hour of everyday for my blessing and i show that by my 'salah' or prayer. Being a muslim is submitting to my creator which is what the word muslim means. By obtaining peace through Submission to Allah' The one true God' So, Just to clairify;FYI, just so people out there are not confused. im not just saying it just to be as other famous people on tv. Saying,'I want to thank God for letting me win' this or that an award or something.

I'll close for now on my way to the gym.

Next up in the cup game series, second round matchup vs Tangier: Inch'Allah ta Ala'a or 'IF God wills it' i will keep you posted world on how we do. Thanks again for your reading my blog and for your support intil next time take care! Assalamu Alaikum/peace be with you


T.G.I. Fridays and Raja Cup Game - by Christopher Rodgers


Assalamu Alaykum Hello everyone,

Wasup world, your probably wondering why i got tgif's posted as my title blog. Well after the win on saturday my teammate from the cameroonian national team and I went out to T.G.I. fridays for dinner Notably Parfait Bitee; Shot out to the homie for coming out to watch my game showin love appreciate it HomeBoi.

Now to the average westerner they would be surprised to hear that there's american restaurants like T.G.I. fridays in morocco. People of course would assume the obvious one's like, mac do or pizza hut. In fact, Casablanca has alot of nice restaurants as well as outlet spots right next to beach for shopping. The mall here which is the biggest in all of morocco is full of designer stores and very expensive shops. Great vacation mall to go and check out.

Basketball:

Saturday's game against Raja was once again a dogfight. Surprisely, the game actually went exactely how it happen the last time we played them. With there backs against the wall I new it would be a hard game from beginning to end. And just like the last game i was able to really give the team a boost at the right moments with 3 consective shots and defensive plays that helped us get over the hump as we pulled away down the stretch taking the game by 10points. My teammates this game really looked for me especially when i started heating up during the match. I was very pleased with how i came out of gates in attack mode; al hamdoulilah! I knew right away i was going to have a good night because the very first shot i took was money 'N da Bank' and i knew from then on I was going to step on there necks and apply pressure the whole night after that.
But Still at the of the day hats off to Raja's team; you Got to give there team, the players, the coaching staff and their entire organization alot of credit for there competitive spirit; They are a past championship organization so i expected nothing less than a tough match and they showed that in how they fought to the end. As we ended their season, our season lives for another day.
All praise be to Allah the one true God! The Creator of the heavens and earth. Maybe your reading this and thinking I'm saying 'thank God' like you hear all athletes saying in press interviews or at award shows. No! Its not the same thing. When i say it; it has different meaning to it because im saying it as a muslim. I'm thankful of every second, of every hour of everyday for my blessing and i show that by my 'salah' or prayer. Being a muslim is submitting to my creator which is what the word muslim means. By obtaining peace through Submission to Allah' The one true God' So, Just to clairify;FYI, just so people out there are not confused. im not just saying it just to be as other famous people on tv. Saying,'I want to thank God for letting me win' this or that an award or something.

I'll close for now im on my way to the gym.

Next up in the cup game series, second round matchup vs Tangier: Inch'Allah ta Ala'a or 'IF God wills it' i will keep you posted world on how we do. Thanks again for your reading my blog and for your support intil next time take care!

Assalamu Alaikum/peace be with you

Parfait Bitee (188-G-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Rhode Island)


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

Standings

NBA Standings
Eastern Conference
Atlantic Div.
 1. Boston C. 30-22 
 2. Philadelph.76 29-24 
 3. New York K. 27-27 
 4. Toronto R. 19-35 
 5. New Jersey N. 19-36 
Central Div.
 1. Chicago B. 42-13 
 2. Indiana P. 32-21 
 3. Milwaukee B. 25-28 
 4. Detroit P. 20-33 
 5. Cleveland C. 17-34 
Southeast Div.
 1. Miami Heat 38-14 
 2. Orlando M. 32-22 
 3. Atlanta H. 31-23 
 4. Washington W. 12-41 
 5. Charlotte B. 7-44 
Western Conference
Northwest Div.
 1. Oklah.City T. 40-13 
 2. Denver N. 29-24 
 3. Utah Jazz 28-26 
 4. Minnesota T. 26-29 
 5. Portland TB 24-30 
Pacific Div.
 1. LA Lakers 34-20 
 2. LA Clippers 32-21 
 3. Phoenix Suns 27-26 
 4. Golde State W. 20-32 
 5. Sacramento K. 19-35 
Southwest Div.
 1. San Antonio S. 37-14 
 2. Memphis G. 30-22 
 3. Dallas M. 30-24 
 4. Houston R. 29-25 
 5. N.Orleans H. 13-40 

Regular Season: Round 97

Apr. 3: Miami Heat - Philadelph.76 99-93
Apr. 3: Memphis G. - Golde State W. 98-94
Apr. 3: Toronto R. - Charlotte B. 92-87
Apr. 3: LA Lakers - New Jersey N. 91-87
Apr. 3: Cleveland C. - San Antonio S. 90-125
Apr. 3: Indiana P. - New York K. 112-104
Apr. 3: Detroit P. - Orlando M. 102-95
Apr. 3: Sacramento K. - Phoenix Suns 100-109

Regular Season: Round 98

Apr. 4: Washington W. - Indiana P.
Apr. 4: Atlanta H. - Charlotte B.
Apr. 4: Miami Heat - Oklah.City T.
Apr. 4: Minnesota T. - Golde State W.
Apr. 4: Dallas M. - Memphis G.
Apr. 4: Portland TB - New Jersey N.
Apr. 4: Philadelph.76 - Toronto R.
Apr. 4: Boston C. - San Antonio S.
Apr. 4: N.Orleans H. - Denver N.
Apr. 4: Milwaukee B. - Cleveland C.
Apr. 4: Utah Jazz - Phoenix Suns
Apr. 4: LA Clippers - LA Lakers


Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Kobe BRYANT
  LA Lakers
  (198-G-78)
  Avg: 28
 1. Bryant, LA Lakers28.0 
 2. Durant, Oklah.Ci.27.5 
 3. James, Miami Heat26.7 
 4. Love, Minnesota T.26.5 
 5. Westbrook, Oklah..24.4 
 6. Rose, Chicago B.22.8 
 7. Wade, Miami Heat22.8 
 8. Ellis, Golde S.21.9 
 9. Williams, New J.21.6 
 10. Aldridge, Portlan.21.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Dwight HOWARD
  Orlando M.
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 14.5
 1. Howard, Orlando M.14.5 
 2. Love, Minnesota T.13.6 
 3. Bynum, LA Lakers11.9 
 4. Varejao, Clevelan.11.5 
 5. Cousins, Sacramen.11.1 
 6. Humphries, New J.11.0 
 7. Griffin, LA Clipp.10.9 
 8. Gasol, LA Lakers10.5 
 9. Gortat, Phoenix9.9 
 10. Noah, Chicago B.9.8 
Assists Per Game
 Steve NASH
  Phoenix Suns
  (190-PG-74)
  Avg: 11.3
 1. Nash, Phoenix Suns11.3 
 2. Rondo, Boston C.11.0 
 3. Paul, LA Clippers8.8 
 4. Calderon, Toron.8.8 
 5. Williams, New J.8.6 
 6. Rubio, Minnesot.8.2 
 7. Rose, Chicago B.8.0 
 8. Parker, San A.7.9 
 9. Wall, Washington W.7.8 
 10. Conley, Memphis G.7.2 
Steals Per Game
 Mike CONLEY
  Memphis G.
  (186-PG-87)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Conley, Memphis G.2.4 
 2. Paul, LA Clippers2.4 
 3. Rubio, Minnesot.2.2 
 4. James, Miami Heat1.9 
 5. Shumpert, New Y.1.8 
 6. Iguodala, Philadel.1.8 
 7. Lowry, Houston R.1.8 
 8. Allen, Memphis G.1.7 
 9. Millsap, Utah Jazz1.7 
 10. Westbrook, Oklah..1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Serge IBAKA
  Oklah.Ci.
  (208-C/F-89)
  Avg: 3.4
 1. Ibaka, Oklah.Ci.3.4 
 2. McGee, Washingt.2.5 
 3. Howard, Orlando M.2.1 
 4. Jordan, LA Clippers2.1 
 5. Bynum, LA Lakers2.0 
 6. Smith, Atlanta H.1.9 
 7. Gasol, Memphis G.1.9 
 8. Hibbert, Indiana P.1.9 
 9. Dalembert, Houst.1.8 
 10. Biyombo, Charlott.1.8 


Varejao still hopes to play before the season ends. - by Bryan Floyd

Anderson Varejao (6'9''-C-82) is still not ready to return to practice with the team. He did participate in some running and conditioning drills in practice on Monday, and although head coach Byron Scott said that he's 'progressing nicely,' there is no timetable for his return to the court. With the playoffs out of reach, I personally dont see what the rush is but Varejao just wants to play. Varejao has been out of the lineup since early February and missed a lot of time last year as well. He was asked why the push to play and he said 'Because I am part of the team and I want to help even if we don't have any more chance at the playoffs. 'I want to play, that's what I get paid for. 'Last year, I was hurt and this season I got hurt too. I want to play. This is what I love to do.' The one reason it would be good for him to get some court time under his belt is because he does plan to represent Brazil in the Summer Olympics.


Bulls, bench mobs and a crystal ball for the playoffs - by Chris Mathieu

Its hard to believe we are less than three weeks away from the end of the regular season. The predictions that it would be a battle of attrition for teams trying to stay healthy through the grind proved exactly true. Its hard to imagine that you could have the best record in the NBA and be missing two starters for much of the season but that is exactly what has happened with the Bulls. Not only has Rip Hamilton missed most of the season through injuries to his groin and shoulder, Derrick Rose has missed a bunch of games due to back, toe and now a groin injury of his own. Add in the games missed by CJ Watson, Luol Deng and various other players the teams roster has resembled a M.A.S.H unit at times. Coming down the stretch the team is hoping for as much health as possible but it seems hope for a healthy playoff run appears to be a pipe dream.

Luol Deng is battling a torn tendon in his wrist that will require offseason surgery (likely he will play in the Olympics with the injury and opt for surgery after that point). Derricks groin looks to be a serious threat to the Bulls playoff hopes as well, its hard to believe that Jeremy Lins biggest contribution to the season is putting the Bulls playoff chances in jeopardy (it was a play in the Knicks game that knocked Rose out with the groin injury in the first place). Rose is day to day the team says but the problem is he hasnt been running for weeks and even if he is in great shape, he isnt in peak basketball shape that alone would take 1-2 weeks for him to recover sufficiently to play at peak performance. The fact that he hasnt even started running yet means it maybe the playoffs at the earliest for him to come back in peak condition, if he returns to the floor this week.

The biggest strength of the Bulls early in the season and last year is the so called bench mob of CJ Watson, Ronnie Brewer, Luol Deng, Taj Gibson and Omer Asik because of injuries these unit hasnt been playing together for most of the season. This has removed one of the Bulls biggest advantages it has held over other teams. Asik has taken a step back defensively much of the season even before Nick Collison and Russell Westrbook posturized him twice in ugly fashion in the second half (the dunk by Westrbook was one of the best I have ever seen) of the OKC game on Sunday.

Carlos Boozer has been a revelation for the team this season, not missing a game, being a vocal leader on and off the court and coming into the season in peak physical conditioning. He has played very well for the team through all of the injuries and has been, in my opinion the team MVP this regular season. He plays much better when he gets lots of touches earlier in the game. The one question I have about the Bulls is they use Noah as the high post release valve for when Rose gets double teamed. The only problem with this option is teams dare Noah to put up his ugly shot deemed the tornado which he doesnt hit with regularity. I am surprised they havent tried Boozer more in this role as he is a deadly pick n pop player and the high post is a sweet spot for him. He also is an excellent passer with either hand, the only weakness is his dribbling is subpar and teams can attack his dribble.

Considering the team has missed 2 starters for most of the season the teams run has been remarkable, it should be enough to get coach Thibadeau a second coach of the year trophy. The Bulls going into the season needed health if they were going to get past the Heat in the playoffs. The injury to Deng guarantees the Bulls wont be at full strength this season. The lingering injuries to Hamilton and Rose make the Bulls at risk of getting beat before they even get a rematch with the Heat in the playoffs. The Bulls even with the injuries they have endured still look like the third best team in the NBA, quite an accomplishment considering the adversity they have faced all season long. The problem is and its hard to imagine this is true but if the Bucks sneak into the 8th seed could provide a tough matchup for Derrick as he has struggled containing Monta Ellis his entire career. His herky jerky unorthodox style and speed has given Derrick fits throughout his entire career. It would prove to be a tough matchup for the Bulls even though they have owned the Bucks as of late. One this for sure, the road to the NBA finals for the Bulls wont be easy no matter who they play and how healthy they are.


Pacers Comeback To Beat the Knicks, 112-104 - by Daniel Gibson

INDIANA, Ind.---The Pacers pulled off another late game rally to win a game where they trailed by double-digits to start the fourth quarter.

The New York Knicks jumped out to a 17 point advantage in the third but were nearly doubled-up in points during the fourth to pull out a momentum building win, 112-104. Danny Granger led the Pacers with 27 points including 14 of those coming in the the fourth quarter when the team needed it the most.

Carmelo Anthony led the Knicks with 39 points and was virtually unstoppable the whole game but he didn't get much offensive help down the stretch.

The Pacers avoided the season series sweep by the Knicks with the win and head to Washington to take on the Wizards tomorrow night. Then this Friday they are back home to take on Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook and the Oklahoma City Thunder. The next night the Boston Celtics come to town so the Pacers have to take the positives from this big win and come back ready to play tomorrow.


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


Coach Calipari's personal redemption has been completed, winning a National Championship - by Rangi Gescheit

After getting 3 schools to the final 4, countless amount of players to the NBA, had 5 players selected in the 1st round of the draft (new record) and few more impressing achievements, Coach John Calipari has won his first ever national championship. Not before he knock off two rivals/'personal demons' which haunt him for a while.

Coach Calipari is known for his ability to take a mid-major school and put it at the front line nation wise.

He did that in the 90s in Amherst with the University Of Massachusetts. He led the Minuteman to the NCAA 6 years in a row. For an Atlantic-10 school it is not an achievement to be taken lightly.

The year of 1996 was the highlight of Caliparis era at UMass. With Marcus Cambi as his leading scorer he led them to the Final Four that year. They met Kentucky at the semi final. Kentucky , coached by his friend and mentor Rick Pitino beat them 81:74 and put an end to Caliparis dreams. For the 90s at least. A demon was created. Not only Pitino sent UMass home. Calipari was not able to bring his ball club to the same level ever again before his departure towards the end of the millennium.

Twelve years later, Calipari have led the University of Memphis to an amazing season. 2007-2008 was not an easy schedule for the Tigers. The regular season championship and the Conference USA tournament were in doubt for a moment. The national stage and how good they can be that was the question. They played and won Gonzaga , Arizona , Oklahoma , UConn. It was clear that they are being prepared to the big stage.

And that year they got to the big stage.

That year Coach Calipari challenged history and tradition. Calipari and his stars Derek Rose, Dozier and Douglas-Roberts shut down UCLA and sent them home.
At the National Championship Calipari have met a new demon which will haunt him for the next 4 year. Bill Selfs Kansas .

They ran shoulder to shoulder for 36 minutes. 2:12 Memphis was up 51:60. Kansas got on a run. 9 seconds to go Kansas tied the game at 63. the ball is at Memphis' hand. Coach Calipari did not take a timeout. Robert Dozier did not convert his desperate 3 point shot and the game went to overtime. From that point and on, Kansas never looked back.

So few years went by, Calipari got the fancy but very demanding job at Kentucky and he was up to the challenge.

Last year he got the to the Final Four but was stopped there again.
This year, how symbolic, he had to face both of his demons on his way to his first National Championship.
In both game it was all about Kentucky .
As Coach himself said before the semi final: I am not worried about Louisville . We know how good they are. They are playing right now as well as anybody in the country. It is us I am worried about.
And he was right. Once they were able their game style neither team could force them differently.
Louisville hang to them and the semis. But they just didnt have enough to close the deal.
That was revenge number one, and Rick Pitino was not shy sharing his thought about his in state rival saying how proud he is in his players that made it that far and also wished his opponent good luck, I hope they will bring the championship back to the state of Kentucky.

At the Final John Calipari could feel like in a deja vu.

A great start by his team. Kansas catching up in the second half.

Up only 62:57 with 1:37 to go.

This time around his players made the free throws in the money time and secured the win.

Big smiles a lot of hugs and a huge relief. Now coach Calipari got rid of these demons and most likely will never be asked again about that time out in his first final which he should or should not take.


March Madness: Thoughts on the Final Fours - by Carl Berman

This year I was in Denver for the Women's Final Four and I have to say that it was a pleasure to watch a Final Four in a basketball arena rather than in a football stadium.

Rarely will you see two players dominating games with poor games on the offensive end but that's what happened. In the Men's championship game Anthony Davis (6'10''-F-93) had zero points at halftime yet Kentucky had a 14-point lead over Kansas. Davis didn't hit his first field goal until midway through the second half and only shot 1-for-10 for the game. However, Davis dominated all other aspects of the game grabbing 16 rebounds, blocking six shots, altering a host of others and dishing out five assists. Say Bill Russell anyone?

Brittney Griner only scored 13 points on 3-of-9 from the field in the Lady Bears 59-47 semifinal win over Stanford. However, Griner, with her 88-inch wingspan, completely altered Stanford's offensive game plan. On many occasions Stanford penetrated only to dribble back outside after confronting Griner. Griner made Stanford's Ogwumike sisters look small. Nnemkadi Ogwumike scored 22 points and pulled down nine rebounds but needed 23 shots to score her points. Her sister Chiney scored only four points before fouling out. Griner, with her height, length and skill is unlike any other women's player ever. She can be the #1 pick in the WNBA draft if she elects to come out after her junior year and would be passing up over $2 million per year when considering endorsements and overseas pay. That would be tough to turn down.

After beating Notre Dame 80-61, Baylor became the first men's or women's team to go 40-0 in a season. No team shot over 50% against Baylor all season. In the final, Griner had 26 points, 13 rebounds and five blocks. She went 8-for-9 from the field in the second half as Baylor out-rebounded Notre Dame 45-24 in the game. Any chance Notre Dame has was lost when Natalie Novosel shot 0-for-11 from the field and Devereaux Peters was limited to 15 minutes because of foul trouble.

Kentucky was clearly the most talented team on the mens side. If all their top players declare for the NBA Draft they'll have six draft picks including possibly the top two picks in Davis and Michael Kidd-Gilchrist and another possible lottery pick in Terrence Jones. However, Kansas was the team that improved the most during the season. After watching the Jayhawks play Kentucky at Madison Square Garden in November it was obvious that Kentucky was a solid Final Four candidate but Kansas looked to be far from that potential. You have to give Bill Self credit for developing the Jayhawks and having them reach the championship game.

The best Final Four game was the UConn-Notre Dame women's game in which the Fighting Irish prevailed in overtime. The last minute of regulation went back and forth with steals on each end. It was a great game to watch.

Now that the college season is over we will start concentrating on the NBA Draft. Tomorrow I am off to Portland for the Nike Hoop Summit.

Carl Berman is a Managing Partner of NetScouts Basketball at www.netscoutsbasketball.com.



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


Concord gets verbal from Olentangy Liberty's Jake Bischoff! - by Lucius Jones

Head Coach Kenton McBride has picked up a quality piece to his puzzle at Concord in sharpshooter Jake Bischoff from Olentangy Liberty. The 6'3 combo guard was instrumental in the team's 20+ win season with countless clutch plays, effective and efficient ballhandling, and some of the best 3pt shooting in Ohio. Concord looks for Bischoff to bring the same Conference & District Championship-winning atttitude and work ethic to the ever-growing collegiate program. As a career 40+% 3pt shooter with point or shooting guard skills and the newly named 'clutch gene,' Jake Bischoff should be the first of many Central Ohio success stories for Concord.


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


Cedric Jackson injured at Breakers training - by Eurobasket News

The New Zealand Breakers' most influential player looks unlikely to play in Thursday's do-or-die NBL semifinal in Townsville after suffering what appeared a major ankle injury right at the end of training today.

American point guard Cedric Jackson (191-G-86, college: Cleveland St.), widely considered the best overall player in the league throughout the regular season, badly injured his left ankle on a drive to the hoop on what ended up the final play of an intense series of scrimmages.

Jackson took a bump from big man Alex Pledger as he made one of his trademark darts to the hoop and appeared to land awkwardly on a left ankle that has given him problems all year.

His anguish was immediately evident, the American howling in agony as he writhed around on the floor. He had to be carried from the court and was whisked away immediately to hospital for further assessment.

Given his obvious pain levels, his inability to put any weight on the ankle and the fact that the injury occurred in an already problematic area, the signs are not good for Jackson being able to play any part in Thursday night's must-win visit to 'The Swamp'.

And that's a huge setback for the Breakers, considering they would have been looking to the classy point guard to lead the response after the flat showing in the opening game defeat last Friday night.

The Breakers lost that game 99-82 to dig themselves a major hole in their quest for back-to-back NBL titles.

Jackson had 15 points in the defeat, but his two rebounds and three assists were well below his season averages. He also went zero-for-five from deep and was outplayed by fellow American Eddie Gill in the point guard matchup.

But prior to his untimely injury Jackson had looked fired up to lead the charge this week.

The setback does add to the dj-vu factor in comparison with last season's charge to the title.

In 2011 the Breakers also came out flat and lost the opening game of their semifinal series at home (101-78), against the Perth Wildcats, and had to make the long haul to West Australia facing elimination on their opponents' court.

They also made the trip with power forward Mika Vukona under a serious injury cloud, with the Tall Black having badly hurt his knee early in that NSEC defeat.

But Vukona shocked everyone - team-mates included - by playing, and featured prominently in a famous series-levelling 93-89 victory that would provide the catalyst for the charge to the title.

Courtesy of www.stuff.co.nz


*****************************************************
  NIGERIA   

DStv PBL Standings

DStv Standings
Atlantic Conf.
 1. D.Warriors 5-0 
 2. Royal Hoopers 5-1 
 3. Islanders 3-2 
 4. Union Bank 3-2 
 5. Comets 2-3 
 6. Police Baton 1-3 
 7. Chariots 1-4 
 8. Customs 0-5 
Savannah Conf.
 1. Yelwa Hawks 5-0 
 2. Kano Pillars 4-0 
 3. Kada Stars 3-1 
 4. Bauchi Nets 3-2 
 5. Immigration 2-3 
 6. Niger Potters 1-4 
 7. Rockets 1-4 
 8. Defenders 0-5 

Regular Season: Round 6

Atlantic

Mar. 27: D.Warriors - Chariots 90-57
Mar. 27: Royal Hoopers - Union Bank 82-51
Apr. 1: Royal Hoopers - D.Warriors 79-81
Apr. 2: Police Baton - Islanders 67-76
Mar. 24: Union Bank - Customs 67-65
Apr. 2: Union Bank - Comets 64-66
Mar. 24: Islanders - Comets 58-70
Apr. 1: Chariots - Customs 52-56

Savannah

Mar. 31: Defenders - Niger Potters 76-81
Mar. 31: Bauchi Nets - Immigration 75-64
Apr. 1: Yelwa Hawks - Kada Stars 74-69
Mar. 24: Yelwa Hawks - Rockets 67-65
Mar. 25: Immigration - Niger Potters 65-54
Mar. 24: Bauchi Nets - Defenders 65-45
Apr. 1: Rockets - Kano Pillars 46-111
Mar. 25: Kada Stars - Kano Pillars 00-20

Regular Season: Round 7

Atlantic

Apr. 7: Customs - Comets
Apr. 7: Chariots - Union Bank
Apr. 8: Royal Hoopers - Islanders
Apr. 8: Police Baton - D.Warriors

Savannah

Apr. 7: Niger Potters - Bauchi Nets
Apr. 7: Immigration - Defenders
Apr. 8: Kano Pillars - Yelwa Hawks
Apr. 8: Kada Stars - Rockets


DStv PBL: Pillars, Warriors in superb form - by Olusegun Ikuesan

Three-time champion of the DStv Premier Basketball League Kano Pillars basketball club and runaway Atlantic conference leader Dodan Warriors basketball club of Lagos at the weekend were in superb form snatching victories away from home.

Pillars whose reign as the Nigeria league champion was cut short last season by Royal Hoopers basketball club of Port Harcourt spare no mercy for it host Tapgun Rockets basketball club of Jos at the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria with a 111-46 points spanking while Warriors confirm it superiority over the defending champion (Royal Hoopers) with an 81-79 points victory in Port Harcourt.

Both sides are joined by Yelwa Hawks basketball club of Bauchi who defeated visiting Kada Stars basketball club of Kaduna by 74-69 points as the only sides that are yet to drop a game in the regular season of the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) organised DStv league.

Other week-6 results, Customs basketball club picked it first win of the season with a 56-52 points win over Chariots basketball club; Isladers continue its search for a comfortable regular season finish beating Police Baton by 79-67 points while Comets was 66-64 points better than Union Bank in the Atlantic conference. Niger Potters also recorded an away win over Defenders of Abuja by 81-76 points and Bauchi Nets brightened it final-8 chances with a 75-64 points victory over Immigration in Bauchi.

DStv PBL WEEK-6 RESULTS AND GAMES
ATLANTIC CONFERENCE
ROYAL HOOPERS 79-81 DODAN WARRIORS
CHARIOTS 52-56 CUSTOMS
POLICE BATON 67-79 ISLANDERS
UNION BANK 64-66 COMETS

SAVANNAH CONFERENCE
BAUCHI NETS 75-64 IMMIGRATION
DEFENDERS 76-81 NIGER POTTERS
YELWA HAWKS 74-69 KADA STARS
TAPGUN ROCKETS 46-111 KANO PILLARS

DStv PBL WEEK-7 GAMES:
ATLANTIC CONFERENCE
CUSTOMS VS COMETS 07/04 LAGOS 2pm
CHARIOTS VS UNION BANK 07/04 LAGOS 4pm
ROYAL HOOPERS VS ISLANDERS 08/04 PH 4pm
POLICE BATON VS DODAN WARRIORS 08/04 LAGOS 4pm

SAVANNAH CONFERENCE
NIGER POTTERS VS BAUCHI NETS 07/04 MINNA 4pm
IMMIGRATION VS DEFENDERS 07/04 KANO 4pm
KANO PILLARS VS YELWA HAWKS 08/04 KANO 4pm
KADA STARS VS TAPGUN ROCKETS 08/04 KADUNA 4pm


*****************************************************
  PALESTINE   

Standings - Men

PBBA Standings
 1. De La Salle 7-1
 2. Beit Sahour 7-1
 3. Ibdaa D. 7-1
 4. Sarriyet 6-2
 5. Hiteen 5-3
 6. Orthodox R. 4-4
 7. Berzeit Club 4-4
 8. Beit Jala 3-5
 9. Bethlehem 2-6
 10. Rameen 2-6
 11. Al Ahli 1-7
 12. Ebal 0-8

Regular Season: Round 9

Apr. 20: Sarriyet - Bethlehem
Apr. 22: Al Fara - Al Ahli
Apr. 22: Ebal - Orthodox R.
Apr. 21: Islami - Hiteen
Apr. 20: Beit Sahour - Ibdaa D.
Apr. 21: Berzeit Club - De La Salle
Apr. 3: Beit Jala - Al Ahli
Apr. 3: Berzeit Club - De La Salle
Apr. 4: Sarriyet - Beit Sahour
Apr. 4: Bethlehem - Ebal
Apr. 5: Rameen - Hiteen
Apr. 5: Orthodox R. - Ibdaa D.


De La Salle in the lead in the 8th week, Ibdaa & Beit Sahour catching up - by Tamara Awartani

After eight weeks of playing, the superleague has ran into several surprises from clubs, some exciting close games, and other expected results.
With 14 teams taking part, at the end of the league four of them will go down to the first division. So each club was playing hard to stay in the superleague.

At the moment, three teams: De La Salle Al Quds Jerusalem, Ibdaa Dheisheh and Orthodox Beit Sahour won 7 games out of 8, with De La Salle in the lead by points difference with 3 games left for all.
Some of the surprising games was from the rising teams: Rameen beating Birzeit , and Birzeit beating Sarriyet Ramallah (2nd place last year) and Orthodox Beit Sahour who was alone in the lead with 7wins.

In the case of wining the title, Orthodox Beit Sahour needs to win all the upcoming games vs. Sarriyet Ramallah, De La Salle and Hiteen to be the champ. Ibdaa Dheisheh need to beat Orthodox Ramallah, Sarriyet Ramallah and Eibal with having Beit Sahour lose one of its games. De La Salle need to beat Birzeit, Orthodox Beit Sahour and Sarriyet Ramallah and Ibdaa losing one of its games. While Sarriyet Ramallah need to win all their upcoming games vs. Orthodox Beit Sahour, Ibdaa and De La Salle.
The teams that will go down for now are Eibal , Ahli Jerusalem and Rameen.

One can though notice through the 8 games each team played, that almost none of the teams is stable, very close games when it is expected that one team will win easily and vice versa. Moreover, many new young players shined such as Ibrahim Habash (G-93), George Zelfo, Lutfi Anab, Daud Abu Qweider, Tamer Habash, Ahmad Yunis, Bayan AlHout, Hamzeh Abbas, Tareq Tamimi, Wasim Misk and have been major to the winning of their team. To which I think some of the current older players need to give some space to the younger players to get game experience.

Three more exciting weeks and the champ will be revealed. Thereafter, the first division league will start.
For more news, results, ordering check www.palbasket.com


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

Standings

PBL Standings
Central Division
 1. Cent.Illinois D. 18-1
 2. Sauk Valley P. 13-6
 3. Chicago M. 9-10
 4. St. Louis P. 4-13
 5. Indiana D. 4-14
Eastern Division
 1. Rochester R. 17-2
 2. Scranton/W-B 10-10
 3. Dayton A.S. 6-11
 4. Lake Michigan 4-14

Regular Season: Round 12

Central

Mar. 24: Chicago M. - St. Louis P. 88-83
Mar. 25: St. Louis P. - Indiana D. 130-125 OT
Mar. 23: Cent.Illinois D. - St. Louis P. 123-94
Mar. 24: Cent.Illinois D. - Indiana D. 122-89
Mar. 25: Sauk Valley P. - Chicago M. 107-89
Mar. 23: Chicago M. - Sauk Valley P. 100-123

Eastern

Apr. 1: Rochester R. - Scranton/W-B 117-120
Mar. 25: Lake Michigan - Dayton A.S. 102-107

Semi-Finals: Round 1

Apr. 5: Scranton/W-B - Cent.Illinois D.
Apr. 6: Sauk Valley P. - Rochester R.


Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Keith RADCLIFF
  Indiana D.
  (186-G-86)
  Avg: 23.8
 1. Radcliff, Indiana23.8 
 2. Favors, Sauk V.20.9 
 3. Simpson, Scranton.20.4 
 4. Commons, Scranton.19.8 
 5. Inabnit, Indiana D.19.3 
 6. Love, Chicago M.19.2 
 7. Robinson, Scranton.18.8 
 8. Hill, St. Louis P.18.3 
 9. Harris, Dayton A.S.17.5 
 10. Fay, Sauk Valley17.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Billy PETTIFORD
  India.
  (201-F-)
  Avg: 12.5
 1. Pettiford, India.12.5 
 2. Robinson, Scranton.11.4 
 3. Hill, Chicago M.10.8 
 4. Fay, Sauk Valley P.8.3 
 5. Davis, Rochester R.8.2 
 6. Slack, Cent.Ill.7.5 
 7. Harris, Sauk V.7.2 
 8. Batiste, Lake M.7.1 
 9. Hill, St. Louis P.6.9 
 10. Harris, Dayton A..6.8 
Assists Per Game
 Herman FAVORS
  Sauk V.
  (174-G-84)
  Avg: 8.5
 1. Favors, Sauk V.8.5 
 2. Simpson, Scranton.7.1 
 3. Snow, Lake M.5.4 
 4. Crouch, Rocheste.5.1 
 5. Petty, Cent.Ill.4.9 
 6. Ruffin, Cent.I.4.8 
 7. Council, Rocheste.4.2 
 8. Smith, Dayton A.S.4.1 
 9. Anderson, Chica.4.0 
 10. Polk, St. Louis P.3.9 
Steals Per Game
 Marcel ANDERSON
  Chica.
  (175-PG-86)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Anderson, Chica.1.9 
 2. Rose, Sauk V.1.7 
 3. Polk, St. Louis P.1.5 
 4. Pettiford, India.1.5 
 5. Crouch, Rocheste.1.4 
 6. Favors, Sauk V.1.4 
 7. Snow, Lake M.1.3 
 8. Ruffin, Cent.I.1.3 
 9. Robinson, Scranton.1.3 
 10. Bobo, Lake M.1.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Shagari ALLEYNE
  Lake M.
  (221-C-84)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Alleyne, Lake M.2.5 
 2. Slack, Cent.Ill.1.9 
 3. Commons, Scranton.1.8 
 4. Batiste, Lake M.1.5 
 5. Webster, Rocheste.1.3 
 6. Robinson, Scranton.1.1 
 7. Pettiford, India.1.1 
 8. Onunaku, Lake M.0.9 
 9. Hill, Chicago M.0.9 
 10. Davis, Rochester0.8 


SWB Steamers beat RazorSharks in final regular season game - by Eurobasket News

If the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Steamers had to win any game against Rochester this season, Sunday was the day to do it.

With the game tied with 3.3 seconds left, Vincent Simpson (6'1''-G-88, college: Hampton) was fouled going for a 3-pointer and hit all three foul shots to lift the Steamers over the RazorSharks, 120-117, for the first time in six meetings this season.

'I had a good look at the 3-point line and he fouled me,' said Simpson, who finished with 20 points. 'I was like, I'm happy he fouled me.'

Seven players scored in double figures for the Steamers (10-10), who open the divisional playoffs Thursday against the Central Illinois Drive.

Ending the regular season on a high note - especially against a team they struggled against during the regular season - gives Scranton/Wilkes-Barre momentum heading into the postseason.

'As you can tell, we're real pleased,' said Chris Commons (6'9''-F-84, agency: 360 Sports Management, college: USC Aiken), who led all scorers with 27 points. 'We went up to a very tough team, played them at their house and we haven't been able to beat them all year.

'We needed this going into the playoffs.'

Brandon Tunnell (6'1''-PG-89, agency: Athlete Management Group, college: Hampton) added 15 points and Tyler Bullock (6'2''-G-88, college: Nebraska-Omaha) 14, and Colby Batiste (6'9''-C-88, college: La-Lafayette), whom the Steamers acquired last month from the Lake Michigan Admirals, recorded a double-double with 13 points and 10 rebounds.

Matthew Gorman (6'8''-C-84, college: Syracuse) had 11 points and Kyle Robbins finished with 10.

'The rotation was just like perfect,' Simpson said. 'Everybody had a good game, everybody got a chance to play. Everybody got a little taste and we got some players to get some rest.'

The added height under the basket, Commons said, helped the team not only during the win Sunday, but also during practice, preparing them to face a tall RazorSharks squad.

'With the addition of our new bigs, it makes us a little more competitive,' Commons said. 'We get to play against a bigger, physical player in practice now.

'I was a little more prepared for the Rochester big men. It was just a total team effort. No one play, no one person, can really describe today.'


Steamers 120 Rochester 117

Steamers (10-10) - C. Commons 12-22 2-2 27, V. Simpson 6-16 4-4 20, B. Tunnell 5-9 5-6 15, T. Bullock 5-12 4-4 14, K. C. Batiste 5-11 3-4 13, M. Gorman 4-9 2-4 11, Robinson 5-10 0-0 10, D. Griffin 3-6 2-2 8, S. Draper 1-3 0-0 2, J. Bailey 0-0 0-0 0, L. Armstead 0-0 0-0 0, N. Jokic 0-1 0-0 0. Totals: 46-99 22-26 120.

Rochester (17-2) - A. Williams 8-9 4-7 20, J. Crouch 7-12 4-6 19, T. Carr 5-9 7-10 17, T. McCoy 7-13 1-2 16, J. Giddings 5-7 2-3 12, B. Webster 4-5 3-8 11, J. Davis 2-10 4-6 8, J. Mayhane 3-9 0-0 7, M. Council 4, P. Darden 1-1 0-0 2, J. Dorsett-Jeffreys 0-1 1-2 1, A. House 0-0 0-0 0. Totals: 44-84 26-44 117.

Steamers 27 33 29 31 - 120

Rochester 30 25 31 31 - 117

3-point goals: Steamers 6-20 (Jokic 0-1, Bullock 0-1, Commons 1-6, Draper 0-1, Griffin 0-1, Simpson 4-9, Gorman 1-1), Rochester 3-14 (). Rebounds: Steamers 51 (Batiste 10), Rochester (Davis 8). Assists: Steamers 31 (Simpson 8), Rochester 30 (Council 8). Steals: Steamers 12, Rochester 12. Turnovers: Steamers 15, Rochester 20. Blocks: Steamers 8, Rochester 5. Fouls: Steamers 29, Rochester 20

Courtesy of http://thetimes-tribune.com


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


Asean Basketball League Roundup: March 31 April 1, 2012 - by Enzo Flojo

SAN MIGUEL BEERMEN over INDONESIA WARRIORS, 71-69
Leo Avenido once again came up big for the San Miguel Beermen. Avenido made a lay-up over Steven Thomas and Jonathan Smith with 16 seconds left to help the Beermen defeat the Indonesia Warriors. Avenido finished with 16 points.

Jarrid Famous led all scoring with 20 points. Duke Crews had a double-double in his debut with the Beermen by scoring 11 points and 11 rebounds, but Crews had a tough shooting night, missing 14 of his 19 shots.

The Warriors had a couple of chances to tie the game before the buzzer sounded. Mario Wuysang had a running shot, but was blocked by SMB center Junmar Fajardo. Rony Gunawan and Steven Thomas also had another look at the basket, but failed to convert, resulting in the Warriors facing their eighth defeat of the season.

Steven Thomas led the Warriors with 19 points and 17 rebounds. Jonathan Smith also recorded a double-double with 14 points and 17 rebounds.

SMB 71- Famous 20, Avenido 16, Crews 11, Fajardo 7, Yap 6, Dimaunahan 6, Fernandez 3, Ferriols 2
INW 69- Thomas 19, Smith 14, Wuysang 13, Gunawan 9, Canada 9, Prihantono 5
QS: 23-26, 37-31, 57-47, 71-69

AIRASIA PHILIPPINE PATRIOTS over CHANG THAILAND SLAMMERS, 89-68
It was a clash of the ASEAN Basketball League champions tonight at the Ynares Sports Arena. After a very close first half, the AirAsia Philippine Patriots stepped things up in the second half to cruise past the Chang Thailand Slammers.

Anthony Johnson continued his incredible run with the Patriots to finish as his teams leading scorer with 23 points. Nakiea Miller also put in a significant contribution of 17 points and 15 rebounds.

Calvin Williams led all scoring with 27 points. The Slammers also introduced more new faces into their starting line-up. Chris Garnett stepped in for Demetrius Proby, who is resting due to a back injury, and Alex Angeles came in for John Paul Alcaraz. Both the newcomers had decent debuts, Garnett finishing with 15 points and Angeles rounding up 9 of his own.

It was a very close first half where the teams traded leads 11 times and with the Slammers entering the locker rooms up by just 1.

The Patriots, however, started the third quarter on a 13-0 run to break the game open. The Slammers were unable to score at all in the opening three minutes of the quarter and found themselves outscored 18-5 mid-third-period.

The Patriots were simply too effective in the second half tonight and ended the game on a 6-0 spurt to defeat the Slammers.

APP 89- Johnson 23, Miller 17, Adriano 8, Wainwright 7, Saldua 7, Laure 6, Ybanez 5, Fernandez 5, Raymundo 4, Larong 4, Ramos 2, Vergara 1
CTS 68- Williams 27, Garnett 15, Angeles 9, Leynes 6, Suttisin 3, Jantuma 3, Wongsawangtum 3, Lertmalaiporn 2
QS: 19-18, 32-33, 61-50, 89-68

JOBSTREET.COM SINGAPORE SLINGERS over WESTPORTS MALAYSIA DRAGONS, 81-70
The JobStreet.com Singapore Slingers grabbed a big win at the expense of the Westports Malaysia Dragons. Louis Graham led the way for the Slingers with 24 points, while Kyle Jeffers recorded a double-double with 17 points and 20 rebounds. Wong Wei Long added 13 points for the Slingers, who are at fifth position with 6 wins against 9 defeats.

The Dragons had a nightmare start as they scored a franchise-low 4 points in the first quarter. The Slingers held the Dragons scoreless in the last 7 minutes of the first, frame and Vaughn Canta hit a shot to end the first quarter 16-4.

John Ng hit a three and Patrick Cabahug hit back-to-back shots to help the Dragons trim their deficit to 42-47 in the third quarter, but the Slingers answered the Dragons run quickly through their two imports Kyle Jeffers and Louis Graham, who combined for 8 points in the last 2:10 of the third.

Dragons import Devon Sullivan, who finished with 18 points, tried to start a run in the final period to help cut their deficit. Sullivan scored 5 points early to make it 54-62, but that was the closest the Dragons could get to the Slingers until the final buzzer.

Cheyenne Moore had another tough game for the Dragons. Moore was held to only 7 points and missed 12 of his 14 shots. Ng finished with 12 points and Shee Fai Loh added 11. Despite the loss, the Dragons are still at third position in the standings with 7 wins and 7 losses.

SGS 81- Graham 24, Jeffers 17, Wong 13, Dulay 11, Canta 9, Oh 5, Khoo 2
WMD 70- Sullivan 16, Ng 12, Loh 11, Cabahug 10, Moore 7, Pacana 7, Batumalai 5, Belasco 2
QS: 16-4, 38-26, 57-46, 81-70

AirAsia ABL takes action following the Cobras walk out against the Indonesia Warriors
The AirAsia ASEAN Basketball League announced that action will be taken on both the Indonesia Warriors and the Bangkok Cobras following the Cobras walk out in their match-up held at the GOR Ctra Arena in Indonesia last Saturday, the 24th of March 2012.

After careful reviews of the official reports and game footage, the AirAsia ABL has concluded that the Indonesia Warriors, as the home team, will be fined an undisclosed amount for being unable to control their home crowd as well as failing to provide a home venue with all the facilities as outlined in the ABL Rules & Regulations.

The Bangkok Cobras will also be served with a fine for an undisclosed amount for failing to complete a scheduled game. As per the ABLs competition rules, this forfeit will result in the Cobras automatic loss in that game.

On top of that, the ABL will also be serving a fine to the Bangkok Cobras Head Coach Joe Jellybean Bryant for repeatedly walking onto the court and failing to remain within the team bench area during the game as per the FIBA Rules. Mr. Bryant will also be given a one-game suspension for instigating the forfeit and instructing the Cobras players to leave the court without first providing match officials with a valid reason for the walk out.

The ABL will also be serving a fine to Cobra Jai Reyes for making public prejudicial statements and allegations via his Twitter account regarding the ABLs game officials from this match-up without prior definite proof.

*Game Recaps compiled and compressed from AseanBasketballLeague.com



Barako Bull land Gabe Freeman - by Eurobasket News

Barako Bull have strengthened their roster. They landed Gabe Freeman (198-F-85, college: Costa Mesa JC). The forward is expected to join Barako Bull soon. He might be ready for PBA Commissioners Cup Game 2 against the Aces. Gabe Freeman started the season in Canada. He played for the London Lighting in NBL. The forward posted 18.1 points, 12.2 rebounds, 1.7 assists and 1.2 steals per game. Gabe Freeman is not new to Philippines. He had stints with San Miguel Beermen and Philippine Patriots. USBasket.com named Gabe Freeman All-NBL Canada Player of the Year this season. He was also trumped Philippine PBA Import Player of the Year in 2009 and 2010.


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

Standings - BSN

BSN Standings
 1. Mayaguez 12-3 
 2. Bayamon 9-7 
 3. Quebradillas 8-7 
 4. Guaynabo 8-7 
 5. San German 8-8 
 6. Arecibo 8-8 
 7. Guayama 5-10 
 8. Humacao 3-11 

Regular Season: Round 15

Apr. 2: Mayaguez - Bayamon 85-73
Apr. 3: Humacao - Guaynabo
Apr. 3: Arecibo - Quebradillas


Stats Leaders - BSN

Points Per Game
 Al THORNTON
  Guayama
  (203-F-83)
  Avg: 25.1
 1. Thornton, Guayama25.1 
 2. Ayuso, Arecibo19.9 
 3. Dalmau, Bayamon19.1 
 4. Ramos, Quebradillas18.8 
 5. Hodge, Humacao18.0 
 6. Rivera, San German17.6 
 7. Maye, Guaynabo17.2 
 8. Smith, Mayaguez16.6 
 9. Pinnock, Arecibo15.4 
 10. Galindo, Guayama15.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Peter John RAMOS
  Quebradillas
  (222-C-85)
  Avg: 9.5
 1. Ramos, Quebradillas9.5 
 2. Thornton, Guayama9.5 
 3. O''Bryant, Mayaguez8.6 
 4. Narvaez, Guaynabo8.5 
 5. Burgess, Guaynabo8.1 
 6. Shannon, Quebradil.8.1 
 7. Sweetney, Bayamon7.9 
 8. Pinkney, San G.7.4 
 9. Smith, Mayaguez7.1 
 10. Hodge, Humacao6.8 
Assists Per Game
 Donta SMITH
  Mayaguez
  (201-G-83)
  Avg: 5.9
 1. Smith, Mayaguez5.9 
 2. Rivera, San German5.9 
 3. Cruz, Quebradillas5.3 
 4. Guzman, Guaynabo4.6 
 5. Pagan, Guayama4.5 
 6. Williams, Quebradi.4.1 
 7. Pinnock, Arecibo4.1 
 8. Dalmau, Bayamon4.1 
 9. Hodge, Humacao4.0 
 10. Rivera, Mayaguez3.4 
Steals Per Game
 Donta SMITH
  Mayaguez
  (201-G-83)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. Smith, Mayaguez2.7 
 2. Pinnock, Arecibo1.8 
 3. Ramirez, Mayaguez1.7 
 4. Thornton, Guayama1.5 
 5. Mojica, Bayamon1.4 
 6. Strong, San German1.4 
 7. Figueroa, Guaynabo1.3 
 8. Williams, Quebradi.1.3 
 9. Hodge, Humacao1.3 
 10. Ortiz, Mayaguez1.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Mamadou LAMIZANA
  Bayamon
  (207-F/C-81)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Lamizana, Bayamon2.5 
 2. O''Bryant, Mayaguez1.7 
 3. Thornton, Guayama1.7 
 4. Shannon, Quebradil.1.7 
 5. Burgess, Guaynabo1.6 
 6. Ramos, Quebradillas1.2 
 7. Santiago, Arecibo1.1 
 8. Smith, Mayaguez1.1 
 9. Valenzuela, Humac.1.0 
 10. Aubry, Arecibo0.9 


Arecibo beats Quebradillas, Guaynabo loses fifth straight: - by Luis Modestti

Larry Ayuso (190-G-77, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: USC) scored 25 points to lead Capitanes de Arecibo over Piratas de Quebradillas 74-71 on Tuesday.

Quebradillas had control in the first ten minutes and ended up 24-19 led by Joel Jones and David Huertas.

Arecibo reacted in the second quarter with a 17-2 run to take a 36-26 lead and finished the half up 47-37. Ayuso had 17 points in the first 20 minutes.

The game stayed close in the second half and both Ayuso and Pinnock sealed the win for Arecibo in the free throw line.

David Huertas and Peter John Ramos netted 19 each for Quebradillas.

In Guaynabo, Caciques de Humacao defeated Mets 90-88 in overtime. Regulation ended tied at 77.

Julian Sensley led Caciques with 39 points and 13 rebounds.


Latest BSN Transactions: - by Luis Modestti

Tuesday and early Wednesday were full of transactions in BSN as teams prepare for the second half of the regular season.

Caciques de Humacao sent the rights of guard Walter Hodge (183-PG-86, college: Florida) and their first round pick to Capitanes de Arecibo for Omar Alvarado (180-PG-83) and a first round pick.

Hodge is currently playing in Poland and Alvarado is active and averaging 2.55 in eleven games.

Mets de Guaynabo fired head coach Raymond Dalmau after the team lost their fifth game in a row.

Also Mets sent Angel Luis Figueroa (196-G/F-81, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Dowling) to Quebradillas for power forward Angel Alamo (206-F/C-85).

Figueroa averages 14.13 points per game in Guaynabo while Alamo 4.56 points. Alamo was active with the Puerto Rican national team last summer.


Quebradillas signs Butler: - by Luis Modestti

Piratas de Quebradillas announced the signing of guard Jamar Butler (185-PG-85, college: Ohio St.). He is expected to make his debut this week.

Butler replaces Corey Williams who was released a couple of weeks ago. The former Ohio State guard has experience in Greece and Italy.

Quebradillas is 8-8 so far this season and expect to add more imports this weekend. Their only import active for Quebradillas is forward Terrence Shannon.


Indios won their seventh straight game: - by Luis Modestti

Indios de Mayaguez won their seventh straight game by dominating Vaqueros de Bayamon 85-73 on Monday.

Mayaguez had five scorers in double figures led by Oritseweyinmi Efejuku (196-G-86, college: Providence) who had 16 points, Carlos Rivera added 15, Donta Smith 13, Markus Mitchell and Florentino Valencia netted 10 each.

The first half was for Indios 45-37 and Bayamon could never match the intensity of the tournament leaders.

Bayamon had Christian Dalmau with 20 points and Mamadou Lamizana had 14.

Indios sit on top of the league with a 12-3 record while Vaqueros are second with a 9-7 mark.


*****************************************************
  SERBIA   


Hemofam Stada is HEBA Junior League regular season champion - by Nenad Ilijev

Last two rounds of regular season of HEBA Junior League were held in Belgrade on March 30th/31th. Serbian Basketball Federation (SBF) made a decision to organize last two rounds of regular season in Belgrade to promote youth basketball and they have covered expenses of traveling and accomodation for all teams outside of Belgrade. Agile SBF vicepresident Dejan Tomasevic (208-F/C-73, agency: Beo Basket) welcomed teams and players and they have watched all together a movie about domestic basketball legend Radivoj Korac (1938-1969). It was a great move by SBF in popularization of fair play and youth basketball in Serbia. Actual champions Hemofarm Stada won both games and they have secured 1st place on rankings. Out-of-shape Vojvodina Srbijagas lost both in Belgrade and moved down to second position. Partizan mt:s won both games including a derby game vs. Vojvodina Srbijagas and clinched third position. Crvena Zvezda Diva young team lost to Hemofarm Stada in round 21 which was a replay of last season final. Red&whites will make quarterfinal pair together with 5th placed team Beovuk 72. In-form Mega Vizura and Sloboda Uzice collected two victories each so they are starting elimination round out of 6th and 7th place respectively. Radnicki Kragujevac made last spot for second stage and tough encounter with top team in the league Hemofarm Stada.
Vojvodina Srbijagas will be hosting Final tournament which will be held in Novi Sad from May 3-5, 2012. Quarterfinal pairs are: (1) Hemofarm Stada - (8) Radnicki Kragujevac, (2) Vojvodina Srbijagas - (7) Sloboda Uzice, (3) Partizan mt:s - Mega Vizura (6), (4) Crvena Zvezda Diva - (5) Beovuk 72. All games will be played on May 3rd.
MVP of regular season is Milos Jankovic (200-C/F-94) with 30.0 MVP index points per game.

Round 21

Zdravlje 09 - Partizan mt:s 51-83
Mega Vizura - Knjazevac 89-72
Sloga Kraljevo - Radnicki Kragujevac 59-75
Hemofarm Stada - Crvena Zvezda Diva 88-76
Sloboda Uzice - Mladost Cacak 83-79 OT
Vojvodina Srbijagas - Beovuk 72 103-109 OT

Round 22

Partizan mt:s - Vojvodina Srbijagas 72-59
Beovuk 72 - Sloboda Uzice 65-76
Mladost Cacak - Hemofarm Stada 68-74
Crvena Zvezda Diva - Sloga Kraljevo 91-63
Radnicki Kragujevac - Mega Vizura 72-79
Knjazevac - Zdravlje 09 82-60

Standings

1. Hemofarm Stada 20-2
2. Vojvodina Srbijagas 19-3
3. Partizan mt:s 17-5
4. Crvena Zvezda Diva 16-6
5. Beovuk 72 12-10
6. Mega Vizura 12-10
7. Sloboda Uzice 10-12
8. Radnicki Kragujevac 9-13
9. Mladost Cacak 7-15
10. Sloga Kraljevo 4-18
11. Knjazevac 4-18
12. Zdravlje 09 2-20

Top scorers (points per game)
1. Babic (Beovuk 72) 21.0
2. Jankovic (Mladost Cacak) 19.5
3. Krstic (Hemofarm Stada) 18.9
4. Vujcic (Vojvodina Srbijagas) 18.6
5. Vuckovic (Radnicki KG) 17.6

Top rebounders (rebounds per game)
1. Jankovic (Mladost Cacak) 15.1
2. Vasic (Vojvodina Srbijagas) 9.9
3. Milutinov (Hemofarm Stada) 9.8
4. Popovic (Radnicki KG) 9.1
5. Miskovic (Partizan mt:s) 8.8


Top assistants (assists per game)
1. Pejcic (Knjazevac) 8.7
2. Ristic (Sloga) 6.3
3. Milosavljevic (Radnicki KG) 4.8
4. Vasic (Vojvodina Srbijagas) 4.7
5. Pot (Vojvodina Srbijagas) 4.8

Top defenders (steals per game)
1. Blagojevic (Sloga Kraljevo) 3.0
2. Mladenovic (Zdravlje 09) 2.9
3. Stanisavljevic (Knjazevac) 2.8
4. Avramovic (Mladost Cacak) 2.5
5. Andric (Partizan mt:s) 2.4


*****************************************************
  SOUTH AMERICAN CHAMPIONSHIPS   


The Case for Sportsmanship, Ethics and Integrity in sport organizations - by Wolfgang Lucena

'Good sportsmanship is viewed by many sport organizations as a commitment to fair play, ethical behavior and integrity. In perception and practice, sportsmanship is defined as those qualities, which are characterized by generosity and genuine concern for others. The ideals of sportsmanship apply equally to all athletic disciplines. Individuals, regardless of their role, are expected to be aware of their influence on the behavior of others and model good sportsmanship.'

A Citizenship Committee has identified 9 target groups within the community that are responsible for conducting themselves in a sportsmanlike manner. Following are expectations of these groups.

Expectations of Coaches

1. Always set a good example for participants and fans to follow, exemplifying the highest moral and ethical behavior.
2. Instruct participants in proper sportsmanship responsibilities and demand that they make sportsmanship and ethics the No. 1 priority.
3. Respect judgments of officials, abide by rules of the event and display no behavior that could incite fans.
4. Treat opposing coaches, administrators, participants and fans with respect. Shake hands with officials, opposing coach in public.
5. Develop and enforce penalties for participants who do not abide by sportsmanship standards.

Expectations of athletes Participants

1. Treat opponents with respect: shake hands prior to and after contests.
2. Respect judgment of officials, abide by rules of the event and display no behavior that could incite fans.
3. Cooperate with officials, coaches and fellow participants to conduct a fair competition.
4. Accept seriously the responsibility and privilege of representing the team and community; display positive public action at all times.
5. Live up to high standard of sportsmanship established by coach.

Expectations of Parents and Other Fans

1. Realize that a ticket is a privilege to observe a contest and support the team, not a license to verbally assault others or to be generally obnoxious.
2. Respect decision made by game officials.
3. Be an exemplary role model by positively supporting teams in every manner possible, including content of cheers and signs.
4. Respect fans, coaches and participants.
5. BE A FAN. NOT A FANATIC.
6. Maintain enthusiasm and composure
7. Recognize outstanding performances on either side of the playing court, field, or arena.

Expectations of Media

1. Promote ideals and fundamentals of good sportsmanship.
2. Report acts of sportsmanlike behavior without giving undue publicity to unsportsmanlike behavior.
3. Refrain from making negative comments toward participants, coaches or officials.
4. Recognize efforts of all who participate in the contest.

Expectations of Officials

1. Accept role in an unassuming manner.
2. Showboating and over officiating are not acceptable.
3. Maintain confidence and poise, controlling contest from start to finish.
4. Know rules thoroughly and bide by established Code of Ethics.
5. Publicly shake hands with coaches of both teams before contest.
6. Never exhibit emotions or argue with participants and coaches when enforcing rules.

Expectations of team Administrators

1. Develop a program for teaching and promoting the ideals and fundamentals of good sportsmanship within the zone and province.
2. Provide appropriate supervisory personnel for each event.
3. Support participants, coaches, and fans who teach and display good sportsmanship.
4. Recognize exemplary behavior and actively discourage undesirable conduct by participants, coaches and fans.
5. Attend events whenever possible.

Expectations of Provincial Association Staff

1. Provide leadership and information to member teams.
2. Act as a liaison to other educational associations within the province.
3. Use province visibility to actively promote good sportsmanship.

Expectations of team Boards

1. Adopt policies that promote the ideals of good sportsmanship, ethics and integrity.
2. Serve as a positive role model and expect the same for fans, participants, coaches and other team personnel.
3. Support participants, coaches, school administrators and fans who display good sportsmanship.
4. Recognize the value of team activities as a vital part of education.
5. Attend and enjoy teams activities.

Expectations of Public-Address Announcers

1. Treat visiting and home teams comparably.
2. Consistently display neutrality during contest.
3. Offer no personal comments or criticism of players, officials or coaches.
4. Use P. A. announcements available .

Suggestions for Admission Gate Display

1. In the game or in the stands, BE A GOOD SPORT.
2. At today's contest, BE A FAN, NOT A FANATIC.

Acceptable Behavior

1. Applaud during introduction of players, coaches, and officials.
2. Players shaking hands with opponent who fouls out while both sets of fans recognize player's performance with applause.
3. Accept all decisions of officials.
4. Cheerleaders lead fans in positive team yells in positive manner.
5. Handshakes between participants and coaches at end of game, regardless of outcome.
6. Treat competition as a game, not a war.
7. Coaches, players search out opposing participants to recognize them for outstanding performance or coaching.
8. Applause at end of contest for performances of all participants.
9. Everyone showing concern for injured player, regardless of team.
10.Encourage surrounding people to display only sportsmanlike conduct.
11.During the National anthem, athlete participants and fans should remove any hats, face the flag, and remain still until the end of the anthem.

Unacceptable Behavior

1. Yelling or waving arms during opponent's free-throw attempt.
2. Disrespectful or derogatory yells, chants, songs or gestures.
3. Booing or heckling an official's decision.
4. Criticizing officials in any way; displays of temper with an official's call.
5. Yells that antagonizes opponents.
6. Refusing to shake hands or give recognition for good performances.
7. Blaming loss of game on officials, coaches or participants.
8. Laughing or name-calling to distract an opponent.
9. Use of profanity or displays of anger that draw attention away from the game or activity.
10. Doing own yells instead of following lead of cheerleaders.

Ways To Promote Good Sportsmanship

1. Develop code of conduct and enforce it.
2. Develop sportsmanship awards program and honor those individuals who exhibit outstanding sportsmanship, ethics and integrity.
3. Hold pre-season meeting and assemblies before games to encourage athletes to exhibit proper conduct.
4. Work with local radio and television stations to air public-service announcements on sportsmanship.
5. Display message on good sportsmanship throughout team hallways and in gymnasium or on playing field.
6. Have coaches, players and administrators speak to local clubs and organizations to stress need for good sportsmanship in the community.
7. Conduct clinics for parents and others to discuss playing rules, ethics and good sportsmanship.
8. Formulate a committee to work toward improvement of conduct at contests and activities.


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

Standings - ACB

ACB Standings
 1. FCB Regal 22-5 
 2. Real Madrid 21-6 
 3. Caja Laboral 19-8 
 4. Lagun Aro GBC 16-11 
 5. Gescrap BB 15-12 
 6. Valencia 15-12 
 7. Lucentum 15-12 
 8. Cajasol 14-13 
 9. Unicaja 14-13 
 10. CAI Zaragoza 14-13 
 11. FIATC Joventut 12-15 
 12. Assignia M. 12-15 
 13. GC 2014 11-16 
 14. Fuenlabrada 11-16 
 15. Blusens M. 10-17 
 16. UCAM Murcia 9-18 
 17. Asefa Estudian. 7-20 
 18. B.de Rueda V. 6-21 

Regular Season: Round 23

Mar. 7: FIATC Joventut - Gescrap BB 91-67
Mar. 6: Assignia M. - Blusens M. 86-77
Mar. 7: Unicaja - Lagun Aro GBC 81-89
Mar. 7: UCAM Murcia - GC 2014 76-60
Mar. 13: Real Madrid - B.de Rueda V. 76-55
Mar. 7: Caja Laboral - CAI Zaragoza 75-65
Apr. 3: Asefa Estudian. - Fuenlabrada 72-76
Mar. 6: Lucentum - Valencia 65-70
Mar. 8: FCB Regal - Cajasol 63-66

Regular Season: Round 28

Apr. 8: Unicaja - Assignia M.
Apr. 8: CAI Zaragoza - FCB Regal
Apr. 7: Valencia - FIATC Joventut
Apr. 7: B.de Rueda V. - Fuenlabrada
Apr. 19: Lucentum - Asefa Estudian.
Apr. 9: Caja Laboral - Real Madrid
Apr. 8: Lagun Aro GBC - UCAM Murcia
Apr. 8: Blusens M. - Gescrap BB
Apr. 8: GC 2014 - Cajasol


Stats Leaders - ACB

Points Per Game
 Andy PANKO
  Lagun A.
  (204-F-77)
  Avg: 19.4
 1. Panko, Lagun A.19.4 
 2. Teletovic, Caja L.17.3 
 3. Doellman, Assignia16.8 
 4. Davis, Cajasol15.5 
 5. Wright, CAI Z.14.8 
 6. Hettsheimer, CAI Z.14.7 
 7. Penney, Fuenlabra.14.1 
 8. Caner-Medley, Vale.14.0 
 9. De Colo, Valencia13.5 
 10. Navarro, FCB Regal13.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 James AUGUSTINE
  UCAM M.
  (208-F-84)
  Avg: 8.2
 1. Augustine, UCAM M.8.2 
 2. Ivanov, Lucentum7.7 
 3. Davis, Cajasol7.7 
 4. Teletovic, Caja L.7.6 
 5. Freeland, Unicaja7.5 
 6. Williams, FIATC J.7.4 
 7. Borchardt, B.de R.7.0 
 8. Caner-Medley, Vale.6.9 
 9. Hettsheimer, CAI Z.6.7 
 10. Gabriel, Asefa E.6.5 
Assists Per Game
 Javier RODRIGUEZ
  Assignia.
  (189-G-79)
  Avg: 6.1
 1. Rodriguez, Assigni.6.1 
 2. Llull, Real Madrid4.3 
 3. Salgado, Lagun A.4.3 
 4. Rodriguez, Real M.4.0 
 5. Rodriguez, Bluse.3.7 
 6. Dumas, B.de R.3.7 
 7. Granger, Asefa E.3.7 
 8. Llompart, Lucentum3.6 
 9. Prigioni, Caja L.3.6 
 10. Markovic, Valencia3.6 
Steals Per Game
 Pablo PRIGIONI
  Caja L.
  (191-G-77)
  Avg: 2
 1. Prigioni, Caja L.2.0 
 2. Uriz, B.de Rueda V.1.6 
 3. Doellman, Assignia1.5 
 4. De Colo, Valencia1.5 
 5. Vidal, Lagun A.1.5 
 6. Hanga, Assignia M.1.4 
 7. Granger, Asefa E.1.4 
 8. Garbajosa, Unicaja1.4 
 9. Fischer, Gescrap BB1.3 
 10. Barnes, Lucentum1.3 
Blocks Per Game
 D''or FISCHER
  Gescrap BB
  (211-C-81)
  Avg: 2
 1. Fischer, Gescrap BB2.0 
 2. Lasme, Blusens M.1.9 
 3. Sene, Fuenlabrada1.7 
 4. Begic, Real Madrid1.6 
 5. Toure, B.de R.1.4 
 6. Vazquez, FCB Regal1.1 
 7. Asselin, Assignia1.0 
 8. Barnes, Lucentum1.0 
 9. Zoric, Unicaja1.0 
 10. Simmons, Asefa E.0.9 


CAI Zaragoza gets bigger with Charles Rhodes - by Eurobasket News

CAI Zaragoza announced signing of Rhodes Charles (203-F/C-85, college: Mississippi St.) for rest of the season. The American big guy heads to Spain from South Korea. He appeared 56 times with Sonic Boom KT this season averaging 21 points and 11.6 rebounds. He played for the Sonic Boom in 2010/11 as well. At that time Rhodes also appeared in 56 games registering 16 ppg, 6.4 rpg and 1.7 bpg. The American was named Asia-Basket.com Korean KBL All-Imports Team -11, Asia-Basket.com All-Korean KBL 2nd Team -11 and he also participated at Korean KBL All-Star Game -12. In Europe, Rhodes Charles played for Barons/MLT Riga in 2008/09 season. There he had 12.7 ppg and 3.2 rpg for 6 EuroCup games. His numbers were lower in LBL and Baltic league. Rhodes Charles graduated at the Mississippi State University in 2008.


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

Stats Leaders LNA

Points Per Game
 John SHARPER
  Boncourt
  (186-PG-84)
  Avg: 20.3
 1. Sharper, Boncourt20.3 
 2. Abukar, Lugano T.20.2 
 3. Burrows, Starwings18.0 
 4. Barnette, Geneve17.9 
 5. Jenkins, Starwings17.7 
 6. Calasan, Boncourt17.4 
 7. Jones, SAM M.17.3 
 8. Smith, Monthey17.0 
 9. Yates, Fribourg16.3 
 10. Gibson, SAV Vacal.15.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Babacar TOURE
  Geneve Lions
  (205-F/C-85)
  Avg: 9.7
 1. Toure, Geneve Lio.9.7 
 2. Calasan, Boncourt9.2 
 3. Knutson, BBC Nyon8.3 
 4. Bing, Geneve Lions8.2 
 5. Burrows, Starwings8.2 
 6. Barnette, Geneve7.5 
 7. Sloan, SAV Vacallo7.5 
 8. Esterkamp, Fribo.7.5 
 9. Molteni, SAM M.7.5 
 10. Jones, SAM M.7.2 
Assists Per Game
 Rickey GIBSON
  SAV Vacallo
  (191-G-84)
  Avg: 7
 1. Gibson, SAV Vacallo7.0 
 2. Brown, Lugano T.5.6 
 3. Jenkins, Starwings5.5 
 4. Draughan, Lugano4.9 
 5. Petkovic, Starw.4.8 
 6. Boylan, Monthey4.2 
 7. Bobetso, BBC Nyon4.0 
 8. Buscaglia, Geneve3.9 
 9. Petkovic, Fribourg3.9 
 10. Brown, Geneve L.3.3 
Steals Per Game
 Miroslav PETKOVIC
  Starw.
  (183-G-88)
  Avg: 3.1
 1. Petkovic, Starw.3.1 
 2. Boylan, Monthey2.8 
 3. Gibson, SAV Vacallo2.7 
 4. Jones, SAM M.2.3 
 5. Jenkins, Starwings2.2 
 6. Smith, Monthey2.0 
 7. Louissaint, Month.1.9 
 8. Sloan, SAV Vacallo1.9 
 9. Dubas, Monthey1.9 
 10. Stockalper, Lugan.1.9 
Blocks Per Game
 Babacar TOURE
  Geneve Lions
  (205-F/C-85)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Toure, Geneve Lio.2.4 
 2. Knutson, BBC Nyon1.7 
 3. Matter, Starwings1.2 
 4. Molteni, SAM M.1.2 
 5. Dubas, Monthey1.0 
 6. Roberson, Boncourt1.0 
 7. Barnette, Geneve0.9 
 8. Albrecht, Starw.0.9 
 9. Burrows, Starwings0.8 
 10. Bing, Geneve Lio.0.8 



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


Raja Bell gets injection in troublesome knee - by David Edole

Portland, Ore. Raja Bells uncertain status with the Jazz has finally been updated. The shooting guard is out indefinitely after receiving a hyalgan injection in his left knee Monday. Bell had spent the past week being evaluated in Miami. Neither Utah nor Bells agent, Herb Rudoy, provided official information about the players status while Bell was away from the team.

The 12-year veteran is expected to return to Salt Lake City on Wednesday, and hell be re-examined by team orthopedist Lyle Mason. An update about Bells progress will be provided 'when appropriate,' the Jazz said.

The 35-year-old guard has started 33 games this season, averaging 6.6 points while shooting 47.9 percent from the field and 40.5 behind the 3-point line. Hes dealt with lingering groin and knee injuries, though, and has played in only six of the Jazzs 22 games since the All-Star break. Bell has been out since March 17, and hasnt been with the team for four consecutive contests.

Bell explored less-invasive surgical measures in Miami, which wouldve allowed him to return to action as soon as possible. He said March 25 he was considering microfracture surgery.

The 12-year veteran is making a pro-rated $3.2 million this season and is under contract through 2012-13.

Coach Tyrone Corbin said Monday the Jazz back Bell and want him to do the best thing for his career.

'Rajas a veteran guy and we support him in whatever his decision [he makes],' said Corbin, prior to tipoff against the Portland Trail Blazers.

By Brian T. Smith | The Salt Lake Tribune


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

Standings - Superleague

Superleague Standings
 1. Budivelnyk 28-7 
 2. BC Donetsk 28-8 
 3. Azovmash 24-12 
 4. Ferro-ZNTU 22-14 
 5. Khimik 21-15 
 6. BC Odessa 21-15 
 7. Hoverla 20-17 
 8. Dnipro 20-17 
 9. BC Kyiv 18-18 
 10. Kryvbasbasket 14-23 
 11. DniproAzot 11-25 
 12. Mykolaiv 11-25 
 13. Cherkasy 8-28 
 14. Halychyna 7-29 

Regular Season: Round 37

Apr. 2: Khimik - BC Kyiv 97-76
Apr. 2: Kryvbasbasket - Budivelnyk 87-88
Apr. 2: DniproAzot - Cherkasy 77-74
Apr. 3: BC Donetsk - Hoverla 69-59
Apr. 1: Halychyna - Dnipro 61-78
Apr. 4: BC Odessa - Ferro-ZNTU


Stats Leaders - Men

Points Per Game
 Willie SOLOMON
  Cherkasy
  (187-G-78)
  Avg: 22.1
 1. Solomon, Cherkasy22.1 
 2. Culpepper, Fe.20.5 
 3. Burtt, Dnipro19.3 
 4. Deane, BC Odessa18.4 
 5. King, BC Odessa18.2 
 6. Vukosavljevi., Hal.17.8 
 7. Mitchell, Khimik17.4 
 8. Guinn, Fe.17.3 
 9. Green, Mykolaiv16.9 
 10. Harris, Halychyna16.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Shawn KING
  BC Odessa
  (208-C-82)
  Avg: 10.9
 1. King, BC Odessa10.9 
 2. Vukosavljevi., Hal.10.8 
 3. Dunigan, DniproAzot9.3 
 4. Davis, Fe.8.4 
 5. Odufuwa, Halychyna8.1 
 6. Drozdov, Azovmash8.0 
 7. Goodridge, BC Kyiv7.8 
 8. Todic, Halychyna7.6 
 9. Davis, Kryvbasb.7.6 
 10. Korniyenko, Dnipro7.3 
Assists Per Game
 Darrel MITCHELL
  Khimik
  (181-PG-84)
  Avg: 5.9
 1. Mitchell, Khimik5.9 
 2. Deane, BC Odessa5.8 
 3. Zimmerman, BC Kyiv5.7 
 4. Ewing, Azovmash5.3 
 5. Florence, Kryvbasb.5.1 
 6. Burtt, Dnipro5.0 
 7. Vaughn, Mykolaiv4.6 
 8. Pringle, DniproAzot4.6 
 9. Solomon, Cherkasy4.5 
 10. Swanson, Hoverla4.5 
Steals Per Game
 Frederick HOUSE
  Dnipro
  (195-F-78)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. House, Dnipro1.9 
 2. Florence, Kryvbasb.1.9 
 3. Chappell, Fe.1.9 
 4. Minard, Azovmash1.7 
 5. Solomon, Cherkasy1.7 
 6. Ewing, Azovmash1.6 
 7. Mitchell, Khimik1.6 
 8. Sirsnins, DniproAz.1.6 
 9. Curry, BC Donetsk1.6 
 10. Culpepper, Fe.1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Vernon GOODRIDGE
  BC Kyiv
  (206-F-84)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Goodridge, BC Kyiv2.6 
 2. King, BC Odessa2.3 
 3. McClintock, Mykola.1.9 
 4. Kravtsov, BC Do.1.8 
 5. Dunigan, DniproAzot1.7 
 6. Korniyenko, Dnipro1.6 
 7. Rizvic, Azovmash1.5 
 8. Davis, Kryvbasb.1.5 
 9. Hunter, Mykolaiv1.4 
 10. Vukosavljevi., Ha.1.3 


Stanley Pringle leaves DniproAzot -