EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 5/19/2012 1:04:01 AM

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Men News

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


Standings

ABBA Standings
 1. Big Banana E. 8-1 
 2. Yorks Crushers 7-2 
 3. Roots 7-2 
 4. Ahkimo R. 5-2 
 5. Coast Outlaws 5-2 
 6. Newf.Tapers 5-4 
 7. Hancook F. 5-5 
 8. BS Braves 4-4 
 9. BT Hawks 4-4 
 10. DC D.Stars 1-9 
 11. Ottos 0-8 
 12. Yogi Warriors 0-8 



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

Stats Leaders - LigaA

Points Per Game
 Joe SMITH
  La Union
  (193-G-77)
  Avg: 17.3
 1. Smith, La Union17.3 
 2. Gutierrez, Obras16.6 
 3. Villegas, Sionista16.6 
 4. McHopson, Quilm.16.3 
 5. OBannon, Boca Jrs16.1 
 6. DeGroat, Olimpico.15.8 
 7. Quinteros, Regat.15.6 
 8. Martinez, San M.15.6 
 9. Meyinsse, Wuber-.15.3 
 10. Pittman, Libertad.15.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jack Michael MARTINEZ
  San M.
  (203-F/C-81)
  Avg: 12.4
 1. Martinez, San M.12.4 
 2. Battle, Libertad S.9.9 
 3. Davis, GECR I.9.5 
 4. Sandes, Sionista9.1 
 5. Lloreda, Olimpico.8.8 
 6. Gutierrez, Obras8.5 
 7. Williams, Quimsa7.6 
 8. DeGroat, Olimpico.7.5 
 9. Truscott, Quilm.7.3 
 10. Matthews, Quilm.7.1 
Assists Per Game
 Facundo CAMPAZZO
  Penarol
  (179-PG-91)
  Avg: 5.9
 1. Campazzo, Penarol5.9 
 2. Sanchez, Wuber-.5.5 
 3. Stanic, Boca Jrs5.5 
 4. Cequeira, Sionista4.8 
 5. Martinez, Regat.4.7 
 6. Laprovittola, Lanus3.8 
 7. Victoriano, San M.3.7 
 8. Sucatzky, Atenas3.7 
 9. Osimani, Obras3.5 
 10. Labaque, Atenas3.4 
Steals Per Game
 Matias LESCANO
  Atenas
  (196-G/F-79)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Lescano, Atenas2.3 
 2. Campazzo, Penarol2.2 
 3. Quinteros, Regat.1.8 
 4. Moldu, Olimpico LB1.7 
 5. McHopson, Quilm.1.6 
 6. Ciorciari, GECR I.1.5 
 7. Sanchez, Wuber-.1.5 
 8. Stanic, Boca Jrs1.4 
 9. Torre, Club 91.4 
 10. Treise, Libertad1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Robert BATTLE
  Libertad S.
  (204-C-81)
  Avg: 1.5
 1. Battle, Libertad S.1.5 
 2. Rollins, Sionista1.2 
 3. Clancy, Club 91.2 
 4. Meyinsse, Wuber-.1.2 
 5. Gutierrez, Obras1.1 
 6. Matthews, Quilm.1.0 
 7. Roe, Regatas C.1.0 
 8. Ayarza, Club 90.9 
 9. Rollins, San M.0.9 
 10. Garces, Atenas0.9 


Argentina defeats Angola in friendly match - by Facundo Iatzky

Argentina National team defeats Angola in a friendly game played in Luanda, Angola. They will meet tomorrow again. This friendly match was organized by governments of both countries as part of a comercial relationship. Angola use these games to prepare for olympic qualyfing tournament in Vevezuela. Argentina use it for prove young players who could play in the senior national team in the short time. This game also caused the return of Walter Herrmann (207-F-79) to the senior national team.

Boxscore of the game: Angola 69 - Argentina 71
Angola (69): Morais 7, Ndoniema 5, Islando Manuel (192-F-91) 14, Joaquim Gomes (200-C/F-80, college: Valparaiso) 12 Alexander Mutau (191-G/F-84) 6 (St); Santos 4, Swingue 4, Joaquim 0, Wilson Manuel (194-F-85) 8, Paulo 4, Fortes 5 Ramos 0. Coach. Manuel Silva.

Argentina (71): Nicolas Laprovittola (188-PG-90) 4, Luciano Gonzalez (196-F-90) 6, Walter Herrmann 26, Matias Sandes (201-F/G-84) 11 Marcos Delia (206-C-92) 5 (St); Nicolas Richotti (181-PG-86) 2, Santiago Scala (187-G-91) 14, Juan Emiliano Fernandez (196-G/F-91) 0, Nicolas Brussino (198-G-93) 0, Juan Manuel Torres (208-C-84) 0 Nicolas Romano (197-F/C-87) 3. coach. Nestor Garcia


La Union de Colon is the champion of Torneo Federal - by Facundo Iatzky

La union Colon won 2-0 to San Lorenzo Chivilcoy the finals serie and became the champion of first edition of torneo Federal (third division). they were a solid team during the whole season, and shined in the playoffs. with this victory they return to TNA for next season. the MVP of the finals was Mariano Mazzini (193-F-81) who was also the best player of La union in the tournament with 18,5 points.
This is the champion roster: Mariano Mazzini, Jorge Chahab (180-G-83), Sebastian Taffarel (197-F-87), Brian Diaz, Leopoldo Ibanez, MAximiliano Morel, Juan Cansina (202-F/C-75), Fabricio Pizzola, Augustin richard, Ruperto Herrera, Pablo Bilat, Joaquin Caceres
Coach: Martin Guastavino


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

Standings - SBL

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

Regular Season: Round 10

May. 18: Perry Lakes H. - Cockburn C. 81-103
May. 18: SW Slammers - Lakeside L. 76-110
May. 19: Lakeside L. - Geraldton B.
May. 19: Goldfield G. - Wanneroo W.
May. 19: Rockingham F. - Perth R.
May. 19: East Perth E. - Mandurah M.
May. 19: Cockburn C. - Kalamunda E.S.
May. 19: Stirling S. - Perry Lakes H.
May. 19: Willetton T. - SW Slammers
May. 20: Kalamunda E.S. - Geraldton B.


Buccs look for road form (Round 10 men's preview) - by Eurobasket News

Lakeside Lightning will be confident going into round ten of the men's State Basketball League action this weekend, taking on the South West Slammers on Friday night and hosting Geraldton Buccaneers on Saturday.

The Lightnings biggest test will be against the Buccaneers on Saturday, Geraldton will be desperate to improve on their 5-7 record and show that they can match the top teams in the league.

Geraldton will be confident of picking up a win against the struggling Kalamunda Eastern Suns on Sunday who have won just two games so far this season.

The Goldfields Giants will host the second place Wanneroo Wolves on Saturday night, the Wolves still hungry for the top spot and looking for another victory on the back of three consecutive wins.

The East Perth Eagles will take on the third placed Mandurah Magic on Saturday, the Magic jumped into a top four spot last week and will be looking to continue their strong form.

A top four position could be within reach for the Cockburn Cougars this weekend if things go their way, taking on the sixth place Perry Lakes Hawks on Friday night and then hosting the Eastern Suns on Saturday.

The Cougars have a 7-4 record and are just ahead of the Hawks (6-5) making this game crucial for both sides if they want to maintain touch with the top four.

Life wont be getting any easier for the bottom of the ladder Rockingham Flames who will host the fourth placed Perth Redbacks on Saturday night in a tough encounter.

The Stirling Senators host the Hawks on Saturday night giving the ninth place Senators a chance to make it back into a top eight position after losing their last two games.

Willetton will be after a big win against the Slammers on Saturday night after continuing their record of close games with a two point loss to Mandurah and a one point loss to Perth in week nine.

Article by Hannah Coleman
Courtesy of: SBL


SBL: Cougars jump into fourth, Lightning maintain lead (Friday night wrap) - by Eurobasket News

The Lakeside Lightning have continued their strong form with their 11th win of the season, taking down the South West Slammers by 34 points.

The Lightning were a force to be reckoned with, leading convincingly from the start to finish the game 110-76.

Lakeside were led by young forward Simon Lokan (205-C-90) (21 points, 13 rebounds) while Senario Hillman led the way with 33 points for the Slammers.

The Cockburn Cougars jumped into fourth position after taking down the sixth place Perry Lakes Hawks 103-81.

The Cougars showed determined resilience, slashing a three point deficit after the first quarter to take control of the game and secure a 22 point victory.

Cougar's pair Jeremiah Wilson (203-F-87, college: Tarleton St.) (31 points, 12 rebounds) and Gavin Field (19 points, six rebounds) were too much for the Hawk's Matthew Rosinski (188-G-87, college: Regis Univ.) (23 points, six rebounds) and Shane Ross (18 points, 10 rebounds).

In the women's league a top four clash saw the up and coming Slammers take down the Lightning 63-53.

The Slammers came from behind to slash an 11 points deficit at half time to take their eighth victory of the season.

Kim Sitzman was the star for the Slammers finishing with 30 points and 15 rebounds in a game where the Slammers controlled the rebound count 63-43.

35 points and 13 rebounds from import Stephanie Jones was not enough to stop the Cougars from succumbing to their ninth loss of the season as the Hawks defeated the Cougars 77-64.

Controlling the game for the Hawk's was Belinda Mayger (17 points, 10 rebounds), Chelsea Boyanich (12 points) and Tegan Walker with 12 points, 12 rebounds.

Article by Hannah Coleman
Courtesy of: SBL


Gleeson 'stood down' from Tigers - by Eurobasket News

In shock news from the Melbourne Tigers camp head coach Trevor Gleeson has told media he has been 'stood down with pay'.

Gleeson, who has been at the helm of the club for the past two seasons, told The Age newspaper

''I can tell the truth and that is I have been stood down with pay,'' Gleeson told The Age. He wasn't given a reason for being stood down.

The Tigers have confirmed the news that Gleeson is currently on paid leave but are yet to issue a formal media statement on the situation.

Trevor is on holiday. He is still our head coach at this moment,' Tigers Chief Executive Michael Slepoy told the Herald Sun.

Gleeson took over Melbourne prior to the 2011/12 campaign and the Tigers went 11-17, finishing sixth and missing the playoffs for the third straight year.

Courtesy of NBL


Tigers make statement on Gleeson - by Eurobasket News

The Melbourne Tigers have released the following statement:

The club confirms that Trevor Gleeson is the Head Coach of the Melbourne Tigers.

We are aware of media reports that Trevor has been stood down with pay. The club has obligations to all its employees, including Trevor, to conduct a professional business and not discuss confidential employee matters publicly.

We are deeply disappointed that this matter between Trevor and the club has become public.

We will not be making further comment until the process we are following is complete. We expect this to happen within one week.

Courtesy of NBL


Wildcats finalise 2012/13 squad - by Hugh McAuliffe

The Perth Wildcats are delighted to announce the signing of versatile guard Everard Bartlett (198-G-86), forward Greg Hire (198-F-87, college: Augusta St.) and big man Jeremiah Trueman (206-F/C-87, college: Alaska-Anch.) to complete the 10-man squad for the 2012/13 iiNet NBL Championship season.

With Damian Martin (188-PG-84, college: Loyola Mary), Brad Robbins (186-PG-85), Kevin Lisch (188-G-86, college: St.Louis), Cameron Tovey (199-G/F-85, college: Augusta St.), Jesse Wagstaff (203-F-86, college: Metro St.), Shawn Redhage (203-F-81, college: Arizona St.) and Matthew Knight (204-F/C-85, college: Loyola Mary) still under contract after the 2011/12 season that ended in an all-time great Grand Final series against the New Zealand Breakers, the 'Cats had just three positions to fill.

Following the announcement that Drew Williamson and Luke Nevill would not be re-signed, the Wildcats have secured the signatures of Trueman and Hire for the 2012/13 season, and Bartlett for the next two seasons.

With three positions available to fill, the Wildcats identified that a guard who can shoot, a three man and big man were what was required and Bartlett, Hire and Trueman will fit each of those roles perfectly.

New Zealand-native Bartlett is a 26-year-old guard who has an ability to not only shoot the ball, but to also help Martin, Robbins and Lisch carry and distribute the ball, get to the basket and play strong defence.

He originally came to Perth to live with his partner and trained with the Wildcats for the 2010/11 season and did the same last year as well, but when Martin went down injured he was signed to fill that gap.

He played six games for the 'Cats in that time and averaged over six points before Martin's return. Once he was back, he was quickly snatched up by the Adelaide 36ers where he went on to play 14 games and average 6.0 points, 2.1 rebounds and 1.9 assists.

Given he knows the 'Cats system so well and there was a position there for a guard with his abilities, Beveridge was quick to move to sign him up for the 2012/13 and 2013/14 seasons.

'He has been with us for a couple of years now as a training player and had the opportunity to play when Damian was hurt, and showed plenty of good signs,' Beveridge said.

'We have identified an area we needed to get better at was in three-point shooting and that's something that he can do, but he's got so much more ability than just that. He can go off the dribble, create for others and is a very good defensive player as well. He is definitely going to be great for us and will fit into our style of play very well.'

Hire joined the Wildcats as a development player for the 2010/11 season after his college career with Augusta State University.

He showed good signs in that campaign and then moved onto the main roster last season, and showed some outstanding form in his 31 games not only in his ability to rebound, hustle and give his all as he's renowned for, but to also step up to score in clutch situations.

Beveridge was delighted to give him the chance to continue his NBL career.

'It was very easy to offer another contract to Greg because he stands for everything that I'm about in regards to the hard work and commitment to be the best that you can,' Beveridge said.

'He thoroughly deserves to earn another contract after seeing how much he has changed his body the last couple of years, how he has worked on his game and he is a tremendous leader as well. He thoroughly deserves an opportunity to continue his career.'

Trueman has been with the Wildcats the last two seasons after beginning his NBL career with the New Zealand Breakers.

He had a tough 2011/12 season with Nevill, Knight, Wagstaff and Redhage occupying the big men positions, but that never saw him drop his head and he continued to train incredibly hard, and make sure he was ready to play any time he was called upon.

That hard work, dedication and tremendous attitude made it an easy decision for Beveridge to ask him to return for the 2012/13 season.

'We had four of the best bigs in the country in the team last season and unfortunately it was always JT that did miss out, but he just trained harder and harder every session. There's no doubt that he is a better player now and he's a lot more mature,' Beveridge said.

'It was very tough for him to sit out, but I think it will make him a better player in the long run, and hungrier to play to prove that he belongs in the league.

'We believe he can play in the league and that's why we offered him another contract. We originally did have JT as part of the rotation last season so we are very confident that he can contribute.'

PERTH WILDCATS 2012/13 SQUAD
PG: Damian Martin
PG: Brad Robbins
SG: Kevin Lisch
SG: Everard Bartlett
SF: Cameron Tovey
SF: Greg Hire
PF: Shawn Redhage



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


Pavel Ulyanko wins the title in Estonia - by Eurobasket News

Pavel Ulyanko (204-F/C-79) wins the title in Estonia as his Kalev/Cramo swept the Final series over Tartu Ulikool. In the last game Cramo celebrated a 72:65 win.
The hosts trailed by 1 point at the halftime before their 42-34 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Kalev/Cramo outrebounded Tartu Ulikool 39-28 including 26 on the defensive glass. It was a great shooting night for Kalev/Cramo especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 56.3 percentage. 25 personal fouls committed by Tartu Ulikool helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Senegalese center Bamba Fall fired a double-double by scoring 18 points, 19 rebounds and 4 blocks for the winners. Belarusian power forward Pavel Ulyanko chipped in 9 points. American forward Bill Amis produced 19 points and the former international center Vallo Allingu added 12 points and 5 rebounds respectively for lost side.
In 2011-2012 he joined BC Kalev/Cramo Tallinn (Estonia-KML, starting five) and in Baltic League averaged 10.6ppg, 5.0rpg, 1.6apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 45.8%, 3PT: 44.1%, FT: 70.3%. In VTB League his stats read 9.6ppg, 3.9rpg, 1.3apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 49.3%, 3PT: 30.4%, FT: 80.0%. In Estonia Pavel Ulyanko showed 10.6 points per game and 5.0 rebounds.


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


INTERVIEW WITH NERMIN HUJDUROVIC FROM BOSNIA TO THE US AND BACK AGAIN! - by Chris Mathieu

INTERVIEW WITH NERMIN HUJDUROVIC FROM BOSNIA TO THE US AND BACK AGAIN!

Bosnia has a history of players from the country playing in college basketball, the first and most prominent one to come to mind is the famous Teoman Aligbegovic who played on the great Yugoslav National Teams on the late 1980s and played at Oregon State. When the tragic war in Bosnia many great young talents ended up in US colleges Damir Krupalija, Haris Mujezinovic, Elvir Ovcina to name a few. After the war, few Bosnians had the resources and support to make a similar move. Nermin Hujdurovic was one of the few with the courage, commitment, interest and skill to do so. He finished his college degree and returned to Bosnia this season to continue his career as a professional. He shares some of his experiences with us and sheds some light on this subject for us and those interested in following his path to being a professional.
1) At what age did you start playing basketball?

I started pretty late; I think I was 17 already.

2) Where did you get your start at?

It was a small local team from Tuzla kk 'Iskra' with only youth selections but after four months of practice, half way in the season, I moved to kk Sloboda Dita junior team.

3) Who was your biggest influence playing basketball growing up?

Nenad Markovic was my hero. When I started watching basketball it was the time when our national team was just formed and he was absolutely amazing.

4) Who was your favorite player in the former Yugoslavia and in the NBA?

I loved watching Petrovic in NBA, Vlade Divac and Pedja Stojakovic were amazing too but my all-time favorite is Markovic still.

Tim Duncan is my all-time favorite NBA player.

5) Your most memorable moment on a basketball court so far?

Winning Bosnian junior (u18) championship with Sloboda Dita in 2006.

6) What would you say is your strength on the court? What is your weakness?

I'm a team player that works well in a system and I love playing a challenging, physical defense. Weakness.. I get too frustrated sometimes and I carry it off the court too.

7) How did you end up coming to the US and playing basketball in college?

Long story... My parents didn't want me to discontinue my education after high school and not going to college seemed like the only way to make it in pro leagues.

However I found out about college basketball options in USA and started applying. I applied to several d2 and d1 programs but I didn't have English proficiency test (TOEL or SAT) to enter and then suddenly out of nowhere, St. John's from Minnesota (D3) gave me an opportunity to come and take English as a second language classes until I'm ready for real classes.

I was delighted even though it was a lower division than the other schools I was talking with.

8) What advice would you give to young basketball players about becoming a professional?

Its a lifestyle; it requires dedication and lots of time. No skills required, anybody can do it, practice makes perfect.

Just work hard and you won't believe what will happen.

9) What advice would you give kids about coming to the US and playing college basketball?

Definitely something I would recommend to anybody, not just basketball but any other athletes who have possibility of going to US and playing any sports.

College sports are fun; its a whole different dimension of sports when compared to Europe. Its a great way to create friendships and really learn by combining sports and education.

Most young basketball players go for pro contracts even though they had college basketball opportunities and some of them end their careers disappointed after year or two of not getting minutes.

College offers you four years of fun while playing basketball, getting your degree and life security option and yet you can still play professionally!

10) What did you like most about being in the US? The least?

I love the variety, if you have a chance to travel there is always something else you haven't seen yet. Its hard to pick one thing out all of it but if I have, I would humbly pick food places: Buffalo wild wings restaurant and Chipotle burrito.

The thing I couldn't get used to and I didn't like is social life over there, it is way different. Seems like it ends after college and everybody isolates in their own world of loans and life problems.

11) The hardest transition to coming to the US is?

I'm a family guy. Living without my family was a nightmare in the beginning.

12) How did the season go for you this year in Bosnia?

Lots of ups and downs, it was my first time with significant minutes in a D1 of pro basketball.

I was very nervous whether I would be able to compete with some of the guys on my position in the league and it bothered me coming into games. But as season was advancing I was doing better and better and pressure disappeared. Our assistant coach and former player, Goran Terzic helped me a lot to adjust along with Armin Cengic passing his experience on me.

Overall, I learned a lot and most importantly proved to myself that I can play on this level which gave me motivation to work harder over the summer for next year.

13) What was the highlight of your season?

Even though I missed last 3 games of the season with stomach issues, avoiding relegation and helping kk Vogosca to stay in D1 with such a low budget and so many issues during the season.

No one believed in us and people were laughing at as when we lost first nine or ten games in the season! But we did it.

14) If you could tell clubs one thing about yourself it would be?

Hmm.. Dedication and ambition! Can't wait for next year and to see what comes next!

15) What are your plans for next season?

I haven't signed anything yet but there are few options right now, I'm expecting something to be finalized by the beginning of June.

I would love to experience playing outside the country.

Most important thing for me is to have a good summer in the weight room and work on my skills individually in order to prepare my body for next year.

16) Where do you see yourself in 5-10 years?

Hopefully I am in good health playing basketball and running outdoors with my future kids.

17) What are your plans after basketball?

I will always be in or around the game. My other professional goals are to get my Masters degree and eventually Doctorate as well and teach one day.

18) What is your favorite city?

Budapest is awesome! I love Siena too but my family lives in Tuzla so that seals the deal.

19) Who do you think will win the NBA title?

I've been cheering for Spurs since they drafted Tim Duncan, 1996 or 97? This will be his last title!! :)

20) How do you think Bosnian National Team and Juniors and Cadets will do under the leadership of Aco Petrovic, Nenad Markovic and Gordan Firic respectively?

Great thing for us that we have these guys coaching our national teams. Their experience and connections can only help us develop.

Aco Petrovic is a proven coach and thats what we need. Markovic's and Firic's name and experience tell enough about them and I'm sure they will be ideal role models for the kids.

We have some great players and I don't expect anything less than qualifying to Euro. We will see what happens there and who will be in our group.


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


Bulgaria ready to prove itself as good host of the European Basketball Tour 2012 - by Maria Mitzova

Bulgaria will prove its name as good host this summer, when Sofia is chosen to organize the European Basketball Tour 2012. 'Every event of such significance is a good promotion of our country. Events like this lead to very good opportunities as well,' thinks the Deputy Minister of Sports in Bulgaria Ivan Tsenov - once a top basketball player.

Bulgaria, Turkey, Poland and Ukraine will fill the new Arena in Sofia form July 24 to July 26. Tournament website is also available.

'For sure, such tournament is important for Bulgaria. Huge part of it is that now we have big Arena to host that type of event. We have proven trough the years, that we can organize well sport events. I think we will handle it together with GPK Sports Management very well,' added Tsenov. 'I am sure that fans will be interested in this tournament. I also expect many foreign fans to visit Bulgaria for these games.'

'I am looking forward to see Bulgaria on Eurobasket 2013. This tournament will be a step forward for us and for Bulgarian National Team to clash with very strong opponents,' said the legendary Bulgarian player.


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


Retaining Claros is 'gonna be a hard one', says Rainmen owner - by Eurobasket News

The Halifax Rainmen are hoping to have their head coaching situation resolved by early next month.

Josep Claros, who brought the Rainmen closer to a championship than any coach in their five-year history, has returned to Barcelona to spend time with his family and ponder his coaching future.

Claros signed on as head coach last summer and guided the Rainmen to a 23-13 record and a spot in the National Basketball League of Canada final. After the season ended, he took over as head coach of the Pioneros de Quintana Roo and led them to a FIBA Americas League championship.

'That's gonna be a hard one', admitted Rainmen owner Andre Levingston. 'I'm not sure about that yet. We would love to have coach back, naturally. He did a great job for us and hopefully we can retain him.'

Levingston said hes giving Claros time to think it over and will meet with him next month.

In other news, the Rainmen have already decided on the five players they will protect from NBL Canada free agency. Although they dont need to submit their protected list to the league until the end of the month, Levingston said he will protect guards Taliek Brown, Chris Hagan and Joey Haywood and forwards Tyrone Levett and Darnell Hugee.

It doesnt mean those players will be back with the Rainmen, as they are still free to sign in other professional leagues and could receive more lucrative offers elsewhere. But Levingston is hoping he can keep as many of them around as possible.

Those are guys we wanted to protect and when the time comes, well try to sign them, he said.

Courtesy of http://metronews.ca


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

Stats Leaders - A1

Points Per Game
 Ivan MIMICA
  KK Split
  (193-G-80)
  Avg: 18.7
 1. Mimica, KK Split18.7 
 2. Ceskovic, Kvarner18.0 
 3. Ross, Jolly17.9 
 4. Markota, KK.17.6 
 5. Bilan, Cedevita17.2 
 6. Stimac, Svjetlost16.7 
 7. Sobin, KK Split15.3 
 8. Simovic, Kvarner15.3 
 9. Kruslin, Zabok15.1 
 10. Vrbanc, Zadar14.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Ive IVANOV
  Zadar
  (201-C-85)
  Avg: 7.5
 1. Ivanov, Zadar7.5 
 2. Markota, KK.7.5 
 3. Bilan, Cedevita7.1 
 4. Stimac, Svjetlost7.0 
 5. Sobin, KK Split7.0 
 6. Simovic, Kvarner6.8 
 7. Cinac, Kvarner 20106.8 
 8. Suton, Cibona6.7 
 9. Peraica, Darda6.6 
 10. Zupic, Alkar Sinj6.4 
Assists Per Game
 Josip GLAVINIC
  Krizevci
  (192-G-82)
  Avg: 5.1
 1. Glavinic, Krizevci5.1 
 2. Ross, Jolly4.4 
 3. Vujcic, KK Split4.3 
 4. Subotic, KK Split4.3 
 5. Blajic, Kvarner4.2 
 6. Kostomaj, Svjet.3.7 
 7. Wright, Cibona3.6 
 8. Draper, Cedevita3.3 
 9. Tomas, Zabok3.1 
 10. Bazdaric, Cedevita3.0 
Steals Per Game
 Ronald ROSS
  Jolly
  (188-G-83)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Ross, Jolly2.9 
 2. Draper, Cedevita2.5 
 3. Wright, Cibona2.2 
 4. Rozic, Cibona2.0 
 5. Bicvic, Darda1.9 
 6. Blajic, Kvarner1.8 
 7. Kostomaj, Svjet.1.7 
 8. Sobin, KK Split1.5 
 9. Kruslin, Zabok1.5 
 10. Mimica, KK Split1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Filip KRALJEVIC
  Zabok
  (214-F-89)
  Avg: 1.7
 1. Kraljevic, Zabok1.7 
 2. Sarlija, Borik1.2 
 3. Zupic, Alkar Sinj1.1 
 4. Bubalo, Zabok1.1 
 5. Vujcic, KK Split0.9 
 6. Owens, Cedevita0.8 
 7. Buva, Krizevci0.8 
 8. Vukovic, KK Split0.7 
 9. Sobin, KK Split0.7 
 10. Bilan, Cedevita0.7 


Cibona eliminates Zadar, becomes first finalist - by Eurobasket News

Semifinals, Game 2: Zadar - Cibona 62-85 (0-2)

Cibona became the first finalist of the Croatian league Playoffs. The former champion cruised past Zadar on the road 62-85 winning the series with perfect 2-0. Cibona now waits for the winner of Cedevita - Split series. Cedevita currently has 1-0 lead.
The guests trailed by 5 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 3-point lead at the halftime and later totally took control on Zadar for the final 85-62 victory. Cibona dominated down low during the game scoring 54 of its points in the paint compared to Zadar's 34. American guard Zack Wright (188-85, college: Central Mo.) orchestrated the victory by scoring 14 points and 7 rebounds. The former international forward Marin Rozic (201-83) contributed with 14 points for the winners. Four Cibona players scored in double figures. Cibona's coach Jasmin Repesa felt very confident that he used 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the Finals. Swingman Ante Delas (201-88) replied with 13 points and Goran Vrbanc (194-84) added 13 points in the effort for Zadar.
Cibona was the regular season champion in Croatia with impressive 14-0 record. It is already clear they will have a home court advantage in the Finals. The format is best-of-five and name of the second finalist will be known tomorrow or at the beginning of the next week.

Zadar: G.Vrbanc 13+3reb, A.Delas 13+4reb+1ast, I.Ivanov 10+5reb, A.Kuso 7+3reb, K.Vragovic 7+1reb+3ast, I.Batur 6+4reb+3ast
Cibona: D.Rudez 15+1reb, M.Rozic 14+4reb, Z.Wright 14+7reb+3ast, D.Kus 12+1reb+3ast, T.Zubcic 7+2reb, G.Suton 7+4reb


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


Championship coaches looking for talent in the USA this June! - by Eurobasket

Each year aspiring pro athletes and current pros consider the best camps to show their ability. Owners, coaches and scouts are no different. Nothing is more telling then when an event has Championship level coaches in attendance. This year the Diamond Invitational does just that! The event is headlined by Championship coaches Antonis Constantinides and Aleksander Todorov. Antonis is the reigning champion coach of ETHA Engomis, in the very difficult Division A (top Cypriot League). Aleksandar Todorov's MZT Skopje club won both the Macedonian Cup and Superleague titles as well in the rugged Macedonian top league. Both coaches have extensive championship resumes and are on a quest to find only the best talent for their respective teams. This top event will also have coaches and personnel from Romania, Portugal, Germany, the D-league, NBA and Argentina just to name a few. Whether you need top level talent for your team or you would like to show these coaches you have what it takes then visit www.diamondbasketball.com and apply or email them today. The event will be June 15th and 16th at Elmhurst College in Chicago, Illinois!


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


Two basketball players end training in Serbia - by Eurobasket News

Two Congolese basketball players, Jimmy Mputela Inkoli and Olivier Kiwobo Kakesa have completed a training course at the Europe Basketball Academy in Serbia. Jimmy and Olivier who took part in a camp organized by Angolan side, ASA in 2008 and the Without Borders of Senegal in 2012 would like to play in the NBA like Didier Mbemba and Christian Eyenga. It is for this reason that they express wish to go to many other training centers in order to achieve their goal.
Courtesy of: StarAfrica.com



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


David Blatt stays in Tel Aviv - by Eurobasket News

David Blatt (agency: Beo Basket ) will stay in Maccabi Tel Aviv. The sides have agreed on terms of contract extension. The new deal is meant for three seasons. David Blatt (agency: Beo Basket ) will reportedly get 2.5 Million dollars under the contract. The USA-Israeli specialist took over Maccabi back in 2010. He won both Winner Cup and Premier League with Maccabi last season. This season David Blatt (agency: Beo Basket ) led Maccabi to Adriatic League victory. Previously David Blatt (agency: Beo Basket ) worked with Dynamo Saint Petersburg, Benetton Treviso, Efes Pilsen, Dynamo Moscow and Aris Thessaloniki. He also guided Israeli National Team and has been working with Russian National Team currently. David Blatt (agency: Beo Basket ) was named Israeli Coach of the Year in 1996 and 1997, Russian Superleague Coach of the Year in 2005, Italian SeriaA Coach of the Year in 2006, European Co-Coach of the Year in 2007.


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


Le Mans tab Antoine Eito - by Eurobasket News

Le Mans bolstered their roster at the start of playoffs. They agreed on terms of contract with Antoine Eito (186-PG-88). The guard started the season with Vichy. He tallied 10.6 points, 4.4 assists, 3.9 rebounds and 1.9 steals per game in ProB. Previously Antoine Eito had stints with ASVEL, Cognac and Vichy. The guard was the member U20 French National Team. The guard was ProA champion in 2009.
Le Mans finished the regular season at the fourth position. They will take on Nancy in the quarterfinal series. The first game is scheduled for May 22.


Rouen hire Laurent Sciarra - by Eurobasket News

Rouen hired a new head coach. They signed contract with Laurent Sciarra . The French specialist started his coaching career during the current season. He was hired by Vichy in ProB. The team however finished at 7-27 record at the bottom of the ladder. Last season Laurent Sciarra still carried his player career. He had a stint with Pau-Lacq-Orthez. Sciarra averaged 4.8 points, 4.7 assists, 2.6 boards and 1.0 steal per appearance in ProA. Laurent Sciarra had a remarkable career as a player. He has been the member of French National Team in 1996/2002. He was also named ProA Domestic Player of the Year in 2003 and 2005. Laurent Sciarra was named onto All-Domestic Player Team on eight occasions.


Strasbourg prolong contract with Maxime Zianveni - by Eurobasket News

Strasbourg have decided to keep Maxime Zianveni (198-F-79). The sides have agreed on terms of one-season contract extension. Maxime Zianveni joined Strasbourg at the start of the season. The forward averaged 5.4 points, 4.6 boards and 1.1 assists per game in ProA. Previous season Maxime Zianveni spent with Le Havre. His stats read 4.1 points and 4.0 rebounds per appearance. The forward also had stints with Nancy, AEL Limassol, Apoel Nicosia, Hyeres-Toulon and Chalon. He made it into All-French ProA 2nd Team in 2006. Maxime Zainveni participated at 2006 ProA All-Star Game. The forward has been the member of Central African National Team since 2003. He played at 2011 African Championship last year. Zianveni delivered 7.8 points, 3.0 boards and 1.0 assist in Madagascar.


Orleans signs Ousmane Barro for the Playoffs - by Eurobasket News

Ousmane Barro (207-C/F-84, college: Marquette) is a new member of Orleans. The Senegalese big guy signed a deal for rest of the season and he replaces David Monds (205-F-83, college: Oklahoma St.). Barro arrives to Orelans from Bourg, where he just finished 2011/12 ProB season. He appeared 33 times for the club averaging 14.9 points and 8.5 rebounds. Ousmane Barro spent 2010/11 season with Iranian team Zob Ahan Esfahan. They reached WABA Club Championship Semifinals. In 2009/10, Barro was a member of Hungarian Szolnok and was named Eurobasket.com All-Hungarian League Center of the Year -10. He also has experience from Poland. Barro graduated at Marquette University in 2008.
Orleans will meet Paris-Levallois in ProA Quarterfinals.


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


Vojdan Stojanovski selected the top FYR Macedonian playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

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

Vojdan Stojanovski
Vojdan Stojanovski
   #1. This week's number one is an international guard Vojdan Stojanovski (193-87). He led BC Donetsk to an easy victory against the closely-ranked Azovmash (26-13) 83-66 in the Ukrainian Superleague in Thursday night's game. Stojanovski recorded 13 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists in 20 minutes on the court. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. BC Donetsk (31-8) is placed first in the Superleague. It was his team's 13th consecutive victory in a row. Stojanovski has relatively good stats this year: 10.5ppg, 3.4rpg, 2.4apg, 2FGP: 47.4%, 3FGP: 45.6%(26-57) and FT: 87.1% in the 25 games he played so far. He is currently a member of the FYR Macedonian senior national team.

Pero Antic
Pero Antic
   #2. Second place goes to an international forward Pero Antic (210-82, agency: Beo Basket). Antic contributed to a 1-point Olympiacos' victory against the leader CSKA Moscow (5-1) 62-61 in the Euroleague last Sunday. He recorded 7 points. It was the game of the round between two top 2 ranked teams in group E. Olympiacos S.F.P. Pireus (3-3) is placed second. This season Antic averages: 7.2ppg, 4.3rpg, 2FGP: 44.4%, 3FGP: 25.0% and FT: 77.2%. He has a dual citizenship: FYR Macedonian and Bulgarian. Despite Antic played previously for the Bulgarian national team, he is currently a member of the FYR Macedonian senior national team.

Damjan Stojanovski
Damjan Stojanovski
   #3. The FYR Macedonian player who performed third best last week abroad was an international forward Damjan Stojanovski (197-87). Stojanovski was the major contributor in a Lukoil Academik's victory against the fifth-ranked Euroins Cherno More (10-18) 79-70 in the Bulgarian NBL on Monday night. He scored 15 points and grabbed 6 rebounds in 23 minutes. Lukoil Academik Sofia (25-3) is placed first in the NBL. This year Stojanovski's overall stats are: 7.0ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.2apg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 63.5%(40-63), 3FGP: 41.3% and FT: 84.1% in the 31 games. Despite he played previously for the Bulgarian national team, Stojanovski is currently a member of the FYR Macedonian senior national team.

Bo McCalebb
Bo McCalebb
   #4. Point guard Bo McCalebb (183-85, college: New Orleans) contributed to an easy victory against the eighth-ranked Cimberio Varese (17-15) crushing them 92-57 in the Italian SerieA in Thursday night's game. He recorded 10 points. Montepaschi Siena (24-8) is placed first in the SerieA. This season McCalebb has relatively solid stats: 13.8ppg, 2.4rpg, 3.4apg and 1.5spg. He is a naturalized American. Despite McCalebb played previously for the USA national team, he is currently in the FYR Macedonian national team roster. Strangely McCalebb has never played in FYR Macedonia.

Jeremiah Massey
Jeremiah Massey
   #5. Former international forward Jeremiah Massey (202-82, college: Kansas St.) contributed to Lokomotiv's victory against the closely-ranked Triumph Lyubertsy (12-6) 93-81 in the Russian PBL last Tuesday. He recorded 8 points and grabbed 6 rebounds in 27 minutes. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. Lokomotiv Kuban (9-9) is placed fourth in the PBL. Massey is currently seventh on the league's list of top scorers and also on the list of best rebounders (second place). He has very reliable stats this year: 13.9ppg, 7.6rpg, 1.8apg and 2.0spg in the 19 games. Massey is a naturalized American. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Massey is currently in the FYR Macedonian national team roster. Apparently he has never played in FYR Macedonia.

Darius Washington
Darius Washington
   #6. Point guard Darius Washington (188-85, college: Memphis), who plays in the Puerto Rican BSN could not help Quebradillas (4-4) in their last game on Sunday. Despite Washington's very good performance the fifth-placed Quebradillas was defeated 99-89 at home by the second-ranked Atleticos in the Top 6 group. He was the top scorer with 21 points. Washington also added made 3 passes and 4 steals. There are only two games left until the end of the Second Stage. So now every game will be critical. Washington has reliable stats this season: 14.9ppg, 3.8rpg, 3.6apg and 1.3spg. He is a naturalized American. Despite Washington played previously for the USA national team, he is also a former international player as he played for the FYR Macedonian senior team three years ago. Interesting that Washington has never played in FYR Macedonia.

Predrag Samardziski
Predrag Samardziski
   #7. International center Predrag Samardziski (214-86, also represented by Beo Basket) was not able to help one of league's weakest teams Lietuvos rytas (18-4) in their game against Zalgiris (21-1) in the Lithuanian LKL. He cannot count it as his best performance. Samardziski scored only 3 points in 14 minutes. Lietuvos rytas lost 84-90 on the road to the leading Zalgiris. This year Samardziski's total stats are: 6.6ppg, 4.3rpg and 1.1apg in the 23 games. He is also FYR Macedonian national team player.

Other top FYR Macedonian players, who play abroad:

Michael Wilkinson (204-F-81) plays for Unics Kazan in Russian PBL
Vlado Ilievski (189-PG-80) plays for Lokomotiv in Russian PBL
Marques Green (167-PG-82) plays for Air Avellino in Italian SerieA
Kevin Fletcher (207-C-80) plays for Otto Caserta in Italian SerieA
Riste Stefanov (198-G-81) plays for Ilysiakos in Greek A1
Nenad Zivcevic (204-F-87) plays for Sundsvall Dragons in Swedish Basketligan
Blagoj Janev (203-F-84) plays for Thor Thorl in Icelandic Express L.
Nenad Vujadinovic (202-F-64) plays for Soproni in Hungarian A Division

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


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


4 Down And Number 5 Ruben Spoden Inks With The Walter Tigers Tuebingen - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Ruben Spoden (202-F-89) may be # 21 when wearing the Walter Tigers Tuebingen jersey, but today he has the number 5 ringing in his ears as he is the 5th player to stay from last years squad as head coach Igor Perovic continues to show that he was pleased with the work of last years team as he looks toward next season by giving Ruben Spoden (202-F-89) a contract extension. Spoden is a 22 year old 202cm forward from the Rhein-Main region that will play his third season in Tuebingen next season. Last season the German played 29 games averaging 2,4ppg, and 1,5rpg in 7,2 minutes per game. 'Ruben has developed a lot in the last two years. He has shown that he has the talent to play at this level. I can only report good things about him. He is honest, disciplined, has courage, plays with a lot of energy and is a team player. We are very happy tat he will stay with us for the two next seasons', stressed Tigers head coach Igor Perovic .

Spoden began his career for TuS Hornau and then played for MTV Kronberg before moving to Eintracht Frankfurt in the Regionaliga. He then played two years for TV Langen where he could play and develop further with German top player R,obin Benzing. In 2009-2010, he came to the Schwabenland playing for Erdgas Ehingen/Urspringschule (ProB, starting five): 29 games: 14.8ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 61.5%, 3PT: 32.6%, FT: 74.7%. 'I have felt very comfortable in Tuebingen in the last two years. I have learned to love the town and people. Igor has brought me further along in the Bundesliga. Now its time for me to make the next step. I am happy to be able to do this in Tuebingen and continue to be a part of this team and organization', added Ruben Spoden (202-F-89).

Source: Walter tigers Tuebingen


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

Stats Leaders - A1

Points Per Game
 Nestoras KOMMATOS
  Marousi
  (203-F-77)
  Avg: 20.4
 1. Kommatos, Marousi20.4 
 2. Christmas, AGOR18.6 
 3. Charalampidi., KAO.15.6 
 4. Gagaloudis, Marousi15.6 
 5. Beck, Ikaros14.8 
 6. Dikoudis, PAOK14.7 
 7. James, Aris14.5 
 8. Taylor, Kavala13.9 
 9. Baynes, Ikaros13.6 
 10. Wright, AGOR13.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Aron BAYNES
  Ikaros
  (208-C-86)
  Avg: 8.7
 1. Baynes, Ikaros8.7 
 2. Haritopoulos, Maro.7.6 
 3. NaNa, Ilysiakos7.5 
 4. Stepheson, Panio.7.3 
 5. Kommatos, Marousi6.6 
 6. Symtsak, Kavala6.4 
 7. O''Bryant, Kavala5.9 
 8. Tapoutos, Aris5.8 
 9. Dorsey, Olympiacos5.7 
 10. Scott, Peristeri5.7 
Assists Per Game
 Yannis GAGALOUDIS
  Marousi
  (192-G-78)
  Avg: 6
 1. Gagaloudis, Marousi6.0 
 2. Spanoulis, Olympia.5.0 
 3. Diamantidis, Panat.4.5 
 4. Xanthopoulos, Pani.4.4 
 5. Charalampidi., KAO.4.3 
 6. James, Aris4.1 
 7. Wright, AGOR4.1 
 8. Thompson, Ilysi.3.5 
 9. Mocnik, Perister.3.1 
 10. Jasikevicius, Pan.3.1 
Steals Per Game
 Zack WRIGHT
  AGOR
  (188-G-85)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Wright, AGOR2.5 
 2. James, Aris1.9 
 3. Calathes, Panathin.1.7 
 4. Thompson, Ilysi.1.7 
 5. Christmas, AGOR1.6 
 6. Xanthopoulos, Pani.1.6 
 7. Dorsey, Olympiacos1.5 
 8. Logan, Panathin.1.5 
 9. Gagaloudis, Marousi1.5 
 10. Kommatos, Marousi1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Patrick O''BRYANT
  Kavala
  (213-C-86)
  Avg: 1.5
 1. O''Bryant, Kavala1.5 
 2. Petway, AGOR1.3 
 3. Muldrow, Aris1.3 
 4. Elegar, Marousi1.1 
 5. Hines, Olympiacos1.0 
 6. Vougioukas, Panat.1.0 
 7. Stepheson, Panio.0.9 
 8. Michel, KAOD0.9 
 9. Giddens, PAOK0.7 
 10. Baynes, Ikaros0.7 


The finals start on Monday - by Giorgos Diploidis

It was finally decided that the finals of the Greek league between Olympiacos S.F.P. Pireus and Panathinaikos Athens will start next Monday 21/05 in SEF. The other difference is that the game will start at 19:00 instead of 22:00 that it was at first decided.

We remember that the game was postponed after an attack in the bus of the team of Panathinaikos Athens where Stratos Perperoglou (203-F-84) and Steven Smith (203-F-83, college: La Salle) were injured and they needed to go to the hospital.





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

A Division Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Justin INGRAM
  FS Debre.
  (185-PG-85)
  Avg: 24.6
 1. Ingram, FS Debre.24.6 
 2. Ciric, PVSK P.22.0 
 3. Timberlake, Falco-.21.2 
 4. Raivio, Kaposvari21.1 
 5. Austin, Jaszberenyi20.8 
 6. Ivosev, Szedeak20.4 
 7. Schachtner, FS Deb.20.1 
 8. Doyne, PVSK P.20.1 
 9. Levy, Szedeak19.1 
 10. Dramicanin, Jaszb.18.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Miklos SZABO
  FS Debrecen
  (206-F/C-86)
  Avg: 10.4
 1. Szabo, FS Debrecen10.4 
 2. Miskovic, Marso N.9.6 
 3. Pantelic, Falco-Sz.9.2 
 4. Fey, Kaposvari9.1 
 5. Raivio, Kaposvari8.7 
 6. Townes, Kormend8.7 
 7. Ivosev, Szedeak8.6 
 8. Bader, Szolnok8.3 
 9. Austin, Jaszberenyi8.1 
 10. Egemonye, Soproni8.1 
Assists Per Game
 Laszlo KALMAN
  Falco-Sz.
  (186-G-72)
  Avg: 6.2
 1. Kalman, Falco-Sz.6.2 
 2. Wilson, Kaposvari5.9 
 3. Simon, Albacomp5.8 
 4. Ingram, FS Debre.5.7 
 5. Trotter, Szolnok5.6 
 6. Williams, Atomeromu5.5 
 7. Fekete, Marso N.4.6 
 8. Thomas, Soproni4.5 
 9. Drahos, Szedeak4.3 
 10. Hodges, Jaszbere.4.0 
Steals Per Game
 Stefan FEKETE
  Marso N.
  (188-G-86)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. Fekete, Marso N.2.7 
 2. Drahos, Szedeak2.6 
 3. Austin, Jaszberenyi2.5 
 4. Ingram, FS Debre.2.4 
 5. Trotter, Szolnok2.4 
 6. Raivio, Kaposvari2.3 
 7. Toth, PVSK P.2.2 
 8. Wittmann, Kecsk.2.2 
 9. Perine, ZTE K.2.2 
 10. Ivosev, Szedeak2.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Darian TOWNES
  Kormend
  (208-F/C-84)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Townes, Kormend1.9 
 2. Pantelic, Falco-Sz.1.6 
 3. Keller, Albacomp1.4 
 4. Egemonye, Soproni1.0 
 5. Levy, Szedeak1.0 
 6. Ivosev, Szedeak0.9 
 7. Morgen, Atomeromu0.9 
 8. Chism, Albacomp0.9 
 9. Miskovic, Marso N.0.8 
 10. Juhos, Albacomp0.8 


Szolnok explodes in Q4 to take 1-0 lead in the Finals - by Eurobasket News

Finals, Game 1: Falco-Szova - Szolnok 65-78 (0-1)

Szolnok did a great job tonight in Game One of the Playoff Finals. The defending champion registered 65-78 road victory for 1-0 lead in the series. The format is best-of-five and Game Two is scheduled for Monday. Szonok will host that one.
It was a very close game until the last quarter, when Szolnok's pressure prevailed and they won that period 20-9 extending their advantage to 13 points. They made 17-of-21 free shots (81.0 percent) during the game. The former international center Marton Bader (212-80, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) fired a double-double by scoring 16 points and 14 rebounds for the winners. Obie Trotter (186-84, college: Alabama A&M, agency: Court Side) chipped in 22 points and 4 assists. Four Szolnok players scored in double figures. American guard Chad Timberlake (194-84, college: Fair Dickinson) produced 26 points and 4 assists and Serbian forward Djordje Pantelic (204-84) added 12 points and 8 rebounds respectively for lost side.
Falco-Szova was the regular season champion with 23-3 record. However, tonight they lost the home court advantage in this series. As mentioned above, Szolnok will be the host in the next meeting and Game Three will be played at Falco-Szova's home court on May 24. If necessary, Game Four and Five will be played on May 28 and 30.

Falco-Szova: C.Timberlake 26+2reb+4ast, D.Pantelic 12+8reb+2ast, T.Harazin 8+1reb, Z.Szabo 8+7reb, T.Will 7+4reb+3ast, L.Kalman 2+1reb+3ast
Szolnok: O.Trotter 22+2reb+4ast, A.Horvath 18+3ast, M.Bader 16+14reb+1ast, J.Mills 11+8reb+5ast, H.Nikolov 8+3reb+2ast, B.Gay 3+2reb+1ast


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

Standings

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

Regular Season: Round 21

May. 17: Kankakee S. - Battle Creek K. 125-120
May. 18: Albany L. - Chicago R.
May. 18: L.Angeles L. - Gary Splash



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


David Blatt stays in Tel Aviv - by Eurobasket News

David Blatt (agency: Beo Basket ) will stay in Maccabi Tel Aviv. The sides have agreed on terms of contract extension. The new deal is meant for three seasons. David Blatt (agency: Beo Basket ) will reportedly get 2.5 Million dollars under the contract. The USA-Israeli specialist took over Maccabi back in 2010. He won both Winner Cup and Premier League with Maccabi last season. This season David Blatt (agency: Beo Basket ) led Maccabi to Adriatic League victory. Previously David Blatt (agency: Beo Basket ) worked with Dynamo Saint Petersburg, Benetton Treviso, Efes Pilsen, Dynamo Moscow and Aris Thessaloniki. He also guided Israeli National Team and has been working with Russian National Team currently. David Blatt (agency: Beo Basket ) was named Israeli Coach of the Year in 1996 and 1997, Russian Superleague Coach of the Year in 2005, Italian SeriaA Coach of the Year in 2006, European Co-Coach of the Year in 2007.


Israeli League Announced Season Awards At Gala Event - by Eurobasket

by David Pick and Netanel Dahan

The Israeli League Gala event took place last night (Thursday) at the Israeli basketball Mecca Nokia Arena, as the association announced its season awards.

Guests of honor were the Cleveland Cavaliers' Omri Casspi and Italy's Benetton Treviso's Israeli point guard, Gal Mekel.


All First Team Members:

Moran Roth, Hapoel Holon. Season averages: 32.6 minutes, 11.8 points, 3 rebounds and 7.5 assists per game.

Derwin Kitchen, Maccabi Rishon Le-Zion. Season averages: 34.7 minutes, 14.7 points, 7 rebounds, 3.3 assists and 1.8 steals per game.

Josh Carter, Maccabi Ashdod. Season averages: 35.1 minutes, 17.6 points, 3.8 rebounds and 1.7 assists per game.

Lior Eliyahu, Maccabi Tel-Aviv. Season averages: 24.5 minutes, 13.5 points, 5.2 rebounds and 3.3 assists.

Bryant Dunston, Hapoel Holon. Season averages: 32.6 minutes, 14.6 points, 9.2 rebounds, 1.1 assists and 1.8 block shots per game. Also named League's First Round Most
Valuable Player.

Sixth Man of The Year: Alex Tyus, Maccabi Ashdod. Season averages: 26.7 minutes, 12.7 points, 8.3 rebounds and 0.4 assists per game.

Rookie of The Year: Ezequiel Skverer, B.C. Habikaa. Season averages: 26.4 minutes, 6.8 points (40% from three point range), 2.3 rebounds and 3 assists per game.

Most Improved Player: Sean Daniel, Hapoel Holon. Season averages: 19.6 minutes, 5.9 points, 2.4 rebounds and 0.7 assists per game.

Defensive Player of The Year: Nitzan Hanochi, Maccabi Rishon Le-Zion. Season averages: 30.6 minutes, 9.5 points, 2.5 rebounds, 2 assists and 1.5 steals per game.

Playoffs MVP: Meir Tapiro, Maccabi Ashdod. Season averages: 31.3 minutes, 9.6 points, 5 rebounds, 7.5 assists and 1.5 steals per game.

The Israeli Division I Final Four will take place on Tuesday (5.22.12) night, also at Nokia Arena as Maccabi Rishon Le-Zion and Maccabi Ashdod kickoff Game 1 of the doubleheader while Maccabi Tel-Aviv play host to Hapoel Holon later that night.

The final showdown will be held on Thursday (5.24.12) between the two winners of both games.




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

Stats Leaders - SerieA

Points Per Game
 Andre SMITH
  Otto C.
  (203-F-85)
  Avg: 18.4
 1. Smith, Otto C.18.4 
 2. Coleman, Angelico.18.2 
 3. White, Scavolin.17.3 
 4. Diener, Banco d.16.9 
 5. Hickman, Scavolin.16.1 
 6. Green, Sidigas AV16.1 
 7. Pullen, Angelico BI16.0 
 8. Dean, Sidigas AV16.0 
 9. Shakur, Novipiu CM16.0 
 10. Tucker, Acea Roma15.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Viktor SANIKIDZE
  CS Bo.
  (203-F-86)
  Avg: 10.9
 1. Sanikidze, CS Bo.10.9 
 2. Johnson, Sidigas10.1 
 3. Ivanov, Fabi Shoes8.2 
 4. Smith, Otto C.7.7 
 5. Brunner, Fabi Shoes7.6 
 6. Gigli, CS Bologna7.2 
 7. Jones, Scavolini PS7.2 
 8. Chiotti, Novip.7.0 
 9. Perkins, Bennet C.6.9 
 10. Miralles, Angelic.6.9 
Assists Per Game
 Marques GREEN
  Sidigas AV
  (167-PG-82)
  Avg: 6.5
 1. Green, Sidigas AV6.5 
 2. Diener, Banco d.5.6 
 3. Collins, Otto Case.5.2 
 4. Cook, Armani Mit5.1 
 5. Shakur, Novipiu CM4.3 
 6. Perkins, Bennet C.3.9 
 7. Poeta, CS Bologna3.8 
 8. Mekel, Benetton TV3.7 
 9. McCalebb, Montepa.3.4 
 10. Brown, Banca T.3.3 
Steals Per Game
 Aubrey COLEMAN
  Angelico.
  (193-G-87)
  Avg: 3.3
 1. Coleman, Angelico.3.3 
 2. Kirksay, Fabi Shoes2.6 
 3. Green, Sidigas AV2.5 
 4. Hackett, Scavolin.2.4 
 5. Hosley, Banco d.2.1 
 6. Dean, Sidigas AV2.0 
 7. Di Bella, Fabi S.1.9 
 8. Rich, Vanoli CR1.9 
 9. Pullen, Angelico BI1.8 
 10. Bowers, Umana V.1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Jarvis VARNADO
  Acea Roma
  (206-F-88)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Varnado, Acea Roma1.9 
 2. Cusin, Scavolini PS1.5 
 3. Johnson, Sidigas1.3 
 4. Easley, Banco d.1.2 
 5. Szewczyk, Umana V.1.2 
 6. Shermadini, Bennet1.0 
 7. Sanikidze, CS Bo.0.9 
 8. Slokar, Acea Roma0.8 
 9. Viggiano, Benetton.0.8 
 10. Crosariol, Acea R.0.8 


stats leader

Points Per Game
 Bernardo MUSSO
  Napoli
  (192-G-86)
  Avg: 19.2
 1. Musso, Napoli19.2 
 2. Evangelisti, Recan.16.7 
 3. Portannese, Torino16.4 
 4. Poltroneri, Perugia16.2 
 5. Prandin, Casalp.15.2 
 6. Rugolo, San Severo15.1 
 7. Benevelli, Orlandi.14.8 
 8. Tagliabue, Ruvo14.7 
 9. Ferrarese, Castell.14.5 
 10. Carrizo, Ferentino14.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Emanuele ROSSI
  Chieti
  (208-C-82)
  Avg: 12.9
 1. Rossi, Chieti12.9 
 2. Iannilli, Napoli9.7 
 3. Tagliabue, Ruvo8.8 
 4. Borra, Treviglio8.4 
 5. Baldi Rossi, Perug.8.1 
 6. Benevelli, Orlandi.8.0 
 7. Gandini, Trieste7.9 
 8. Raminelli, Castell.7.7 
 9. Simeoli, Comsum.i.7.6 
 10. Tessitori, Comsum.7.5 
Assists Per Game
 Tommaso MARINO
  Treviglio
  (190-G-86)
  Avg: 4.3
 1. Marino, Treviglio4.3 
 2. Musso, Napoli4.3 
 3. Bertolazzi, Omegna4.1 
 4. Traini, Recanati3.8 
 5. Stanic, Fabriano3.6 
 6. Circosta, Anagni3.5 
 7. Guarino, Ferentino3.4 
 8. Santolamazza, Ana.3.2 
 9. Vico, Matera3.2 
 10. Parente, Torino2.9 
Steals Per Game
 Roberto MAGGIO
  Pavia
  (183-G-90)
  Avg: 3
 1. Maggio, Pavia3.0 
 2. Rossi, Chieti2.9 
 3. Bertolazzi, Omegna2.9 
 4. Iardella, Fabriano2.9 
 5. Rivali, Santarcang.2.8 
 6. Mei, Comsum.it SI2.8 
 7. Portannese, Torino2.7 
 8. Maiocco, Pavia2.7 
 9. Musso, Napoli2.7 
 10. Truccolo, Perugia2.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Andrea CAPITANELLI
  Firenze
  (203-C-86)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Capitanelli, Firen.2.1 
 2. Ancellotti, Santar.1.7 
 3. Borra, Treviglio1.5 
 4. Gandini, Trieste1.1 
 5. Pascolo, Trento1.1 
 6. Cazzaniga, Pavia1.1 
 7. Candido, San Seve.1.1 
 8. Raminelli, Castell.1.0 
 9. Tessitori, Comsum..0.9 
 10. Rossi, Chieti0.9 


DNC post season situation - by Armando Caporaso

Group A

Quarterfinals
Tortona - Alessandria 2-0
Mortara - Cantu' 2-1
Pavia - Savigliano 2-1
Novara - Sarzana 2-1

Semifinals
Tortona vs Mortara (19/05)
Pavia vs Novara (20/05)

Playout
Torino - Follo 2-1 (Follo relegated)

Group B

Quarterfinals
Monticelli Brusati - Piadena 2-0
Saronno - Desio 2-0
Crema - Orzinuovi 2-0
Milano - Lecco 0-2

Semifinals
Monticelli Brusati vs Saronno (19/05)
Crema vs Lecco (19/05)

Playout
Meda - Bergamo 1-2 (Meda relegated)

Group C

Quarterfinals
Marghera - Cittadella 2-1
Caorle - Servolana Trieste 2-0
Jadran Trieste - Cormons 2-1
Pordenone - Venezia 0-2

Semifinals
Marghera vs Caorle (20/05)
Jadran Trieste vs Venezia (20/05)

Playout
Conegliano - Latisana 2-1 (Latisana relegated)

Group D

Quarterfinals
Cento - Bologna 2-0
San Lazzaro di Savena - Lugo 1-2
Imola - San Bonifacio 2-1
Cortemaggiore - Cavriago 2-1

Semifinals
Cento vs Lugo
Imola vs Cortemaggiore (19/05)

Playout
Padova - Forli' 1-2 (Padova relegated)

Group E

Quarterfinals
Costone Siena - S. Giovanni Valdarno 2-0
Bottegone - Pontedera 2-0
Piombino - Pistoia 2-1
Empoli - Monsummano 0-2

Semifinals
Costone Siena vs Bottegone (20/05)
Piombino vs Monsummano (20/05)

Playout
Siena - Livorno 2-1 (Livorno relegated)

Group F

Quarterfinals
Montegranaro - Umbertide 2-0
Giulianova - Pesaro 2-1
Ancona - Ponte Valleceppi 2-1
Orvieto - Porto San Giorgio 2-1

Semifinals
Montegranaro vs Giulianova (19/05)
Ancona vs Orvieto (20/05)

Playout
San Vito Chietino - Passignano 2-0 (Passignano relegated)

Group G

Quarterfinals
Gaeta - Eurobk Roma 2-1
Luiss Roma - Aprilia 1-2
Contigliano - Cassino 2-1
Marino - Tiber Roma 2-0

Semifinals
Gaeta vs Aprilia (20/05)
Contigliano vs Marino (19/05)

Playout
Minerva Roma - Lazio 2-1 (Lazio relegated)

Group H

Quarterfinals
Monteroni - Taranto 2-0
Catanzaro - Salerno 2-1
Molfetta - Airola 2-0
Magic Benevento - Pall. Benevento 1-2

Semifinals
Monteroni vs Catanzaro (20/05)
Molfetta vs Pall. Benevento (19/05)

Playout
Trani - Napoli 2-0 (Napoli relegated)

Group I

Quarterfinals
Trapani - San Filippo Mela 2-0
Messina - Vis Reggio Calabria 0-2
Acireale - Marsala 2-0
Racalmuto - Rosarno 2-0

Semifinals
Trapani vs Vis Reggio Calabria (20/05)
Acireale vs Racalmuto (20/05)

Playout
Gela - Gravina CT 2-1 (Gravina CT relegated)


Playoffs Preview : Bennet Cantu - Scavolini Siviglia Pesaro - by Giovanni Bargna


Schedule : 18/05/2012, 20/05, 22/05, (24/05), (26/05)
All of the games scheduled at 20:30 except from Game 2 at 18:15. Cantu to play at home Game 1, 2 and 5 (if needed)

Bennet Cantu. The team got back on the european main stage 28 years after lifting its last eurolegue trophy this season. And that was a great comeback as coach Trinchieri and his guys made it to the top-16 phase and got even very close to the playoffs with a 3-3 record. On the other side they had ups and downs in the league. That was because of the energies spent in the european competition and because of a lot of injury troubles suffered during the season. Nowadays two players from the starting five are still sidelined. They are serbian Vladimir Micov and the big man from Georgia Shermadini. As per the most recent rumors Micov will be back on the court next Tuesday in Game 3, while Shermadini could get back for the possible semifinals series. The team is also missing Marko Scekic who underwent surgery months ago.
Cantu can count on former Maccabi player Doron Perkins and Andrea Cinciarini, from the bench, at the point. The US guard seems completely recovered from the injury suffered a year ago and provides points and rebounds. Veterans Basile and Mazzarino share the shooting guard spot and are both deadly shooters from behind the arc, while Leunen adds three-pointers and court vision from spot '4'. After a difficult start this season Manuchar Markoishvili improved his shape game by game and is currently one of the main team's offensive weapon and one of them most reliable player when guarding his opponent. Center Greg Brunner was added to the roster during the season, is doing very good under the boards and shares the position with veteran Denis Marconato.
Bennet Cantu can count on very good players and an extraordinary team chemistry. If injured players are recovered soon they can become a tough opponent for anyone.
Scorer : Vladimir Micov 11.0ppg, Rebounder : Greg Brunner 6.9rpg, Assist-Man : Vladimir Micov 2.7apg

Scavolini Siviglia Pesaro. Coach Dalmonte did a great job this season and they completed the regular season with a 19-13 record. The team relies on its three US players and on a very good contribution from some italian players and lithuanian center Lydeka. Richard Hickman, named Lega2 MVP last season, is giving the team 16 points per game and almost 3 assists as the starting point-guard, while Daniel Hackett is doing good at his second season in his 'hometown' mostly using his quickness and penetration skill to get to the bucket. James 'the flight' White is the top scorer of the team and the third best all over the league, he gives points and rebounds thanks to his incredible athleticism. Former NBA Jumaine Jones is doing great this season helping the team under the boards where he grabs lots of rebounds and he can also punish the defense from long range. At 5 spot they are Lideka and Marco Cusin bringing size to Scavolini. Though combo guard Daniele Cavaliero can give a good contribution from the bench it seems that Pesaro could face troubles in a playoff series because of a lack of depth in the roster.
Scorer : James White 17.4ppg, Rebounder : Jumaine Jones 7.3rpg, Assist-Man : Richard Hickman 2.9apg

Forecast. The two teams met three time this season. Scavolini won both of the league games while Cantu downed James White & Co in the italian cup. This could end up in a very balanced series. Bennet Cantu has got the home court advantage, can put the lessons learnt in the euroleague in practice and, in case Micov or/and Shermadini are back soon, can count on a deeper roster. These should be the keys of the series and Cantu takes advantage on them all, but Pesaro have already defeated Cantu twice this season and will be an extremely tough opponent.

Here you can find a preview on Banco di Sardegna Sassari - Canadian Solar Bologna

Here you can find a preview on Montepaschi Siena - Cimberio Varese


Playoffs Preview : EA7 Emporio Armani Milano - Umana Venezia - by Giovanni Bargna

Schedule : 18/05/2012, 20/05, 22/05, (24/05), (26/05)
All of the games scheduled at 20:30. Milano to play at home Game 1, 2 and 5 (if needed)

EA7 Emporio Armani Milano. They've never had such a talented roster recently and coach Scariolo had to work hard during the season in order to give a good chemistry to a team with many new players. The basis of the new project was Scariolo himself who joined the team during last summer and is considered one of the best italian coaches all over europe. As predictable it's been a hard start for the team as they put together good players but a team with a roster almost completely made up of new players needs time to work properly. Someone said the 'tough start' lasted too long but, in the end, Milano reached the second place in the standings at the very last round and seems now in a great shape. Point-guard Omar Cook is getting back to his highest level after having ups and downs in the first part of the season. That is why it was decided to add someone in order to help the team in that position during the season. JR Bremer was signed late in January, but he is currently out due to injury. As a consequence of this Milano inked Justin Dentmon a couple of weeks ago. The last season D-League MVP will have his debut in this series. In the same position Jacopo Giachetti brings intensity from the bench. On the perimeter US guard Malik Hairston (198-G-87, college: Oregon) and italian prospect Alessandro Gentile (added during the season) give points and athleticism to the team, just as forward Mancinelli. The greek duo Fotsis-Bourousis is doing good now. They both hadn't good performances early this season but it seems their shape is getting better game after game now. To complete a very deep roster veteran Mason Rocca and prospects Melli and Radosevic come from the bench providing energy in the paint.
As they found a good chemistry lately this season and they're shape grew during the tournament Milano is expected to challenge the title to the defending champs of Montepaschi
Scorer : Malik Hairston 12.1ppg, Rebounder : Ioannis Bourousis 6.4rpg, Assist-Man : Omar Cook 5.1apg

Umana Venezia. Considering expectations it is undeniable that Venezia did something really amazing this season. Considering they approached the last pre-season in order to challenge in the Legadue torunament it makes the season of Umana Venezia something similar to a miracle. After being promoted to the serie A a couple of weeks before the first game they strengthened the roster by inking Szymon Szewczyk. Then Tim Bowers was added few days later. At the point Keydren Clark led the team in the legadue last season and is doing the same now. He is a very good shooter and has got good court vision. Tim Bowers and Alvin Young give a good contribution on the perimeter and the team has also greek shooting guard Tsaldaris who was recently added. One of the most dangerous player on the court is Szewczyk who can score both from the paint and from long range and grabs almost 6 rebounds per game. Tamar Slay and and Sylvere Bryan can also add intensity under the boards.
Their performances quality seemed lowering in the very last part of the season after getting lots of wins in the first one. It will be a very tough battle for them this series against Milano
Scorer : Keydren Clark 14.9ppg, Rebounder : Szymon Szewczyk 5.9rpg, Assist-Man : Keydren Clark 3.0apg

Forecast. It seems these two teams get to the playoffs in a very different situation. As Milano is growing and improving its game, Umana Venezia seems not as brilliant as it was early this season. Milano should make it to the semifinals in everybody's opinion, but Venezia has already shown they can beat anybody in a single game.


SerieA Round 1 of Quarter-Finals - by Eurobasket News

Banco di Sard. - CS Bologna 81-72

Sassari took down CS Bologna in the opening game of the series. CS Bologna trailed by 12 points at halftime and as many as 14 after three quarters before a 23-18 last quarter charge cut the deficit to 72-81 at the end of the game. American guard Drake Diener (196-81, college: De Paul, agency: Priority Sports) stepped up and scored 26 points and 7 rebounds for the winners and his fellow American import point guard Travis Diener (184-82, college: Marquette) chipped in 15 points and 8 assists. Four Banco di Sard. players scored in double figures. At the losing side American guard Chris Douglas-Roberts (201-87, college: Memphis) responded with 18 points and 7 rebounds and Finnish guard Petteri Koponen (194-88) scored 19 points.
Top scorers:
Banco di Sard.: D.Diener 26+7reb+3ast, T.Diener 15+3reb+8ast, T.Easley 15+8reb, V.Plisnic 11+2reb, M.Vanuzzo 8+3reb, Q.Hosley 4+7reb+5ast
CS Bologna: P.Koponen 19+1reb+1ast, C.Douglas-Roberts 18+7reb, A.Gigli 10+9reb+1ast, G.Poeta 8+1reb+3ast, L.Vitali 8+1reb, K.Lang 4+4reb
gschID: 176236


Bennet Cantu - Scavolini PS 78-72

Bennet Cantu toppled Scavolini for 1-0 lead. The hosts started the game with a very strong first quarter 27-10. But Scavolini Pesaro won second period 20-18. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Georgian guard Manuchar Markoishvili (196-86) stepped up and scored 20 points for the winners and American point guard Doron Perkins (188-83, college: Santa Clara) chipped in 11 points and 9 rebounds. Five Bennet Cantu players scored in double figures. At the losing side the former international guard Daniel Hackett (198-87, college: USC, agency: Two Points) responded with 20 points and 5 rebounds and American guard James White (199-84, college: Cincinnati, agency: Court Side) scored 14 points.
Top scorers:
Bennet Cantu: M.Markoishvili 20+4reb+2ast, N.Mazzarino 15+1reb+3ast, G.Brunner 11+4reb+1ast, D.Perkins 11+9reb+3ast, M.Leunen 10+3reb+5ast, G.Basile 5+3reb+4ast
Scavolini PS: D.Hackett 20+5reb+3ast, R.Hickman 15+1reb, J.White 14+4reb+2ast, M.Cusin 9+5reb+1ast, D.Cavaliero 5+6reb+4ast, J.Jones 5+3reb+2ast
gschID: 176237


Montepaschi - Cimberio VA 92-57

Montepaschi Siena cruised past Varese at home court. The game was mostly controlled by Montepaschi Siena. Cimberio Varese managed to win second period 17-14. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Cimberio Varese to just 5 points in first quarter. Montepaschi Siena made 31-of-32 free shots (96.9 percent) during the game, while Cimberio Varese only scored fourteen points from the stripe. 27 personal fouls committed by Cimberio Varese helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Australian center David Andersen (212-80) stepped up and scored 17 points and 5 rebounds for the winners and Lithuanian guard Rimantas Kaukenas (192-77, college: Seton Hall) chipped in 14 points. At the losing side French forward Yakhouba Diawara (201-82, college: Pepperdine) responded with 11 points and 8 rebounds and Estonian forward Kristjan Kangur (201-82) scored 11 points and 4 assists. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games.
Top scorers:
Montepaschi: D.Andersen 17+5reb, R.Kaukenas 14+1reb+1ast, K.Lavrinovic 12+3reb+1ast, M.Carraretto 11+1ast, B.McCalebb 10+2ast, P.Aradori 9+3reb+3ast
Cimberio VA: K.Kangur 11+1reb+4ast, Y.Diawara 11+8reb+2ast, J.Talts 8+5reb, L.Garri 8+3reb, D.Reati 6+1reb, R.Stipcevic 5+1reb
gschID: 176234


Armani Mit - Umana Venezia 92-63

Armani Milano took 1-0 lead over Umana Reyer after the starting game. The hosts trailed by 1 point after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 9-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 92-63. Armani Milano dominated down low during the game scoring 62 of its points in the paint compared to Umana Venezia's 38. They outrebounded Umana Venezia 35-23 including a 29-16 advantage in defensive rebounds. Armani Milano looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists comparing to just 10 passes made by Umana Venezia's players. Croatian center Leon Radosevic (206-90) stepped up and scored 18 points (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) for the winners and international forward Stefano Mancinelli (203-83) chipped in 16 points. Five Armani Milano players scored in double figures. At the losing side the former international guard Guido Rosselli (198-83) responded with 13 points and American forward Tamar Slay (204-80, college: Marshall) scored 11 points. 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.
Top scorers:
Armani Mit: L.Radosevic 18+4reb, S.Mancinelli 16+3reb+2ast, A.Gentile 15+2reb+3ast, M.Hairston 12+3reb+3ast, J.Dentmon 11+2reb+3ast, M.Rocca 6+2reb
Umana Venezia: G.Rosselli 13+3reb, T.Slay 11+3reb+2ast, A.Young 9+1reb, G.Tomassini 5+1ast, K.Kee Clark 5+1reb+2ast, T.Bowers 5+1reb+1ast
gschID: 176235



*****************************************************
  JAMAICA   


Roy Hibbert seeks release from JaBA - Jamaican centre wants to play for US at Olympics - by Eurobasket News

Ajani Williams, president of the Jamaica Basketball Association (JaBA), said National Basketball Association (NBA) player Roy Hibbert (218-C-86, college: Georgetown) has asked the administration for a release in order to become eligible to play for the United States at this summer's Olympic Games.

'He (Hibbert's agent) said they were grateful to us for having him playing with our team because he has a shot at playing with Team USA, and so they would like JaBA to release him from the national team,' said Williams during an interview with The Gleaner yesterday.

However, there are some compliance issues that have to be worked out with USA Basketball and the world governing body FIBA.

'Our simple response was that we can't just handle this matter from JaBA to the player or from JaBA to the agent, and so on, it has to be from JaBA to the USA Basketball Federation,' said Williams.

'The United States Federation would need to write us and state that they want this player, and at that point JaBA can speak directly to the federation and FIBA, based on the player transferring from one national team to another,' Williams said.

One of the top centres

The 7ft 2in, 278-pound Hibbert who is currently representing Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference semi-finals in the NBA play-offs, against the Miami Heat, has emerged as one of the top centres in the league this season.

He averaged 12 points and eight rebounds during the regular season.

Hibbert last represented Jamaica in the Centro Basketball Tournament in the Dominican Republic in 2010.

Williams added that his association has invested a lot in Hibbert, and therefore they will be seeking compensation for his release.

'JaBA just can't just release him because there was a cost that goes into getting Roy Hibbert. We paid a lot of money for NBA insurance for him,' Williams said.

'We also did a lot of things around him, and so there are going to be several considerations before JaBA releases him,' he added.

Williams stated that Hibbert's absence would be a big blow for the national team, which is scheduled to participate in the Central American Basketball Championships next month.

'We would do much better with him, but the good news is that we have a lot of big men like Jerome Jordan, who could have come off the bench behind Roy,' he said.

Courtesy of http://jamaica-gleaner.com


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


BJ League Final Four starts today - by John Scribe

The end of basketball season in Japan is near as the BJ League will be hosting its Final Four this weekend.
The action starts this afternoon as the top two teams from each conference will be matched in the conference finals.

At 14:10 p.m., the two-time defending bj league champions Hamamatsu-Higashi Mikawa Phoenix will start their title defense against the upstart expansion team
Yokohama B-Corsairs. Hamamatsu features a core that have lead to the success of the former JBL team in center and Japanese national team member Atsuya Ota and Wayne Arnold. The B-Corsairs of Yokohama has a fresh yet experienced team coached by ex-NBA player Reggie Geary. Their roster features MVP favorite Justin Burrell and a load of Japanese players that have JBL experience, led by captain Masuyuki Kabaya.

The western conference championship will be decided 18:10 p.m. as perennial power Okinawa Ryukyu Golden Kings meet up with the Kyoto Hannaryz, which is making their first playoff appearance under the charge of veteran head coach Honoo Hamaguchi. Ryukyu hosts two former finals MVPs in Jeff Newton and David Palmer. Kyoto plays a methodical brand of basketball and is lead by Jermaine Boyette and Rick Rickert. They also feature former JBL triad Taizo Kawabe, Kyosuke Setoyama and long time veteran Naoto Nakamura.

The winners of both games will match up for all the marbles tomorrow in the league finals while the losers will player the first game tomorrow for the consolation third place game.

The Final Four is sure to be exciting!


*****************************************************
  MADAGASCAR   


BBCA henceforth joins N1A - by Eurobasket News

Madagascan basketball side, BBC Ambatondrazaka is now classified amongst N1A clubs as they are vice champions of the N1B national basketball championship.
Madagascan basketball side, BBC Ambatondrazaka is now classified amongst N1A clubs as they are vice champions of the N1B national basketball championship. The competition took place at the Maitre Zaka stadium in Ambatondrazaka from the 6th to the 13th of May. The players of the team expressed happiness to the achievement which has always been one of their greatest targets. They are now in the same cycle with the champions; COSPN.
Courtesy of: StarAfrica.com



*****************************************************
  MALI   


Amara Sy selected the top Malian playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

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

Amara Sy
Amara Sy
   #1. This week's number one is an international forward Amara Sy (202-81). He was the major contributor in a Entente Orleans 45's victory against the 13th-ranked Poitiers (9-21) 83-67 in the French ProA in Wednesday night's game. Sy scored 16 points, had 7 boards, handed out 5 passes and blocked 2 shots in 34 minutes on the court. Entente Orleans 45 (21-9) is placed third in the ProA. It was his team's third consecutive victory in a row. They will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And that game will be critical. Sy has relatively good stats this year: 12.8ppg, 5.9rpg, 2.3apg, 1.2spg, 2FGP: 52.9%, 3FGP: 30.3% and FT: 82.3% in the 30 games he played so far. He has a dual citizenship: Mali and French. Despite Sy played previously for the French national team, he is currently a member of the Mali senior national team.

Yohann Sangare
Yohann Sangare
   #2. Second place goes to an international guard Yohann Sangare (193-83) is a teammate of previously mentioned Amara Sy and both played together in the last French ProA game. Sangare contributed to an easy victory against the 13th-ranked Poitiers (9-21) 83-67. He scored 7 points, made 6 passes and 3 steals. It's Sangare's first season with the team. This year Sangare averages: 5.6ppg, 2.5rpg, 3.5apg, 1.5spg, 2FGP: 48.9%, 3FGP: 17.0% and FT: 82.8%. He is another player who holds two passports: Mali and French. Despite Sangare played previously for the French national team, he is currently a member of the Mali senior national team.

Ludovic Chelle
Ludovic Chelle
   #3. The Mali player who performed third best last week abroad was an international guard Ludovic Chelle (183-83). Chelle led SPO Rouen to a 3-point victory against one of league's weakest teams JA Vichy (7-27) 80-77 in the French ProB (second division) on Wednesday night. He recorded 15 points and added 3 passes in 23 minutes. SPO Rouen Basket (14-20) is placed 14th in the ProB. It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row. The Regular Season already ended. This year Chelle's overall stats are: 6.5ppg, 1.9rpg, 2FGP: 38.0%, 3FGP: 37.6% and FT: 75.8% in the 34 games. Similarly like Sangare and Sy above he has both Mali and French nationalities. Despite Chelle played previously for the French U20 national team, he is currently a member of the Mali senior national team.

Mamoutou Diarra
Mamoutou Diarra
   #4. Forward Mamoutou Diarra (200-80, agency: Two Points), who plays in the French ProA could not help JSF Nanterre (14-16) to beat Le Mans (19-11). Diarra scored only 4 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. JSF Nanterre was defeated 79-72 on the road by the much higher-ranked Le Mans (#4). The Regular Season already ended. Diarra's total stats this season are: 8.2ppg, 2.8rpg and 1.2apg. Similarly like three previous players above, he also holds two passports: Mali and French. Diarra used to play for the Mali national team back in 2002.

Sambou Traore
Sambou Traore
   #5. An experienced international power forward Sambou Traore (199-79) contributed to a Limoges CSP Elite's victory against the 13th-ranked Nantes (14-20) 78-72 in the French ProB (second division) last Wednesday. He recorded 8 points and had 3 steals in 18 minutes. Limoges CSP Elite (27-7) is placed first in the ProB. Traore's team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And now that game is very crucial. This year Traore's total stats are: 8.3ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.2apg and 1.1spg in the 33 games. He holds both Mali and French passports. Despite Traore played previously for the French national team, he is currently in the Mali national team roster.

Souarata Cisse
Souarata Cisse
   #6. Swingman Souarata Cisse (197-86), who plays in the French ProA was not able to help one of league's weakest teams Hyeres-Toulon (3-27) in their last game on Wednesday. Despite Cisse's good performance the bottom-ranked Hyeres-Toulon was defeated 87-80 on the opponent's court by the one of league's weakest teams Pau-Lacq-Orthez (#15). He scored 10 points. The Regular Season already ended. Cisse has averaged so far 8.0ppg, 1.4rpg and 1.5apg. Despite he played previously for the French U20 national team, Cisse is also an international player who is currently on the senior Mali National Team roster.

Nouha Diakite
Nouha Diakite
   #7. Former international center Nouha Diakite (207-80, college: Louisville) faced previously mentioned Ludovic Chelle in the French ProB last game. Diakite, who plays in the French ProB (second division) was not able to secure a victory for JA Vichy (7-27) in their last game. Despite his good performance JA Vichy was edged 80-77 in Rouen by the higher-ranked (#14) SPO Rouen. Diakite recorded 10 points, 6 rebounds and 4 blocks in 24 minutes. It was JA Vichy's eighth consecutive loss in a row. The Regular Season already ended. Diakite has averaged so far 2.9ppg and 2.7rpg in the 21 games. Despite he played previously for the French national team, Diakite is currently in the Mali national team roster.

Mahamadou Drame
Mahamadou Drame
   #8. Shooting guard Mahamadou Drame (188-86) faced previously mentioned Sambou Traore in the French ProB last game. Drame couldn't help Nantes (13-13) in their game against Limoges CSP Elite (27-7). He recorded 5 points. Nantes was defeated 78-72 in Limoges by the leading CSP Elite. They ended the series of three consecutive victories. The Regular Season already ended. Drame has averaged so far 6.8ppg, 1.9rpg and 1.4apg. He plays currently for the Mali national team.

Other top Mali players, who play abroad:

Bakary Konate (208-C/F-93) plays for UB La Palma in Spanish LEB Gold
Djibril Diallo (207-C-91) plays for Hyeres-Toulon in French ProA
Negueba Samake (211-C-90) plays for Boulazac Basket in French ProB
Dramane Diarra (203-F/C-80) plays for Saint Vallier in French ProB
Cheick Soumaoro (205-F/C-90) plays for SPO Rouen in French ProB
Soumaila Samake (215-C-78) plays for Quebec Kebs in the NBL Canada
Mamadou Diarra (213-F-88) plays for Feve Oviedo in Spanish LEB Silver

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


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


Vladimir Dasic's double-double lands him Player of the Week award among Montenegrins playing currently abroad - by Eurobasket Center

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

Vladimir Dasic
Vladimir Dasic
   #1. This week's number one is an international forward Vladimir Dasic (206-88, agency: Beo Basket). He was the major contributor in an overtime Union Olimpija's victory against the third-ranked Helios (6-4) 81-78 in the Slovenian Telemach League in Thursday night's game. Dasic had a double-double by scoring 21 points and getting 10 rebounds in 33 minutes on the court. It was the game of the round between two top 3 ranked teams in Group Championship. Union Olimpija Ljubljana (7-3) is placed second in Championship Group. Dasic has relatively good stats this year: 13.0ppg, 5.9rpg, 1.1apg, 1.9spg, 2FGP: 55.0%, 3FGP: 34.3% and FT: 46.3% in the 11 games he played so far. He is currently a member of the Montenegrin senior national team.

Suad Sehovic
Suad Sehovic
   #2. Second place goes to an international swingman Suad Sehovic (197-87), who plays in the Ukrainian Superleague. Sehovic could not help Budivelnyk (30-9) in their last game on Friday. Despite his very good performance Budivelnyk was badly defeated 127-111 at home by the lower-ranked Ferro-ZNTU (#5). Sehovic was the top scorer with 25 points. He also added 6 rebounds. This season Sehovic has relatively solid stats: 11.0ppg, 5.6rpg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 58.7%(88-150), 3FGP: 38.1% and FT: 78.8%. He has a dual citizenship: Montenegrin and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Despite Sehovic played previously for the Bosnia and Herzegovina national team, he is currently a member of the Montenegrin senior national team.

Ivan Ivanovic
Ivan Ivanovic
   #3. The Montenegrin player who performed third best last week abroad was former international forward Ivan Ivanovic (206-80). Ivanovic led Gaz Metan to a 2-point victory over the closely-ranked U-Mobitelco (20-8) 77-75 in the Romanian Division A on Wednesday night. He was MVP of the game. Ivanovic had a double-double by scoring 20 points and getting 11 rebounds. He also added 4 assists in 31 minutes. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. CS Gaz Metan Medias (22-5) is placed first in the Division A. Ivanovic has reliable stats this year: 14.5ppg, 6.1rpg, 2.5apg, 2FGP: 56.0%(163-291), 3FGP: 33.7% in the 35 games. He is another player who holds two passports: Montenegrin and Serbian. Despite Ivanovic played previously for the Serbian national team, he played also for the Montenegrin national team in 2008.

Nikola Dragovic
Nikola Dragovic
   #4. Forward Nikola Dragovic (206-87, college: UCLA) was not able to help Spartak St.Petersburg (9-9) in their game against Unics Kazan (8-10) in the Russian PBL. Dragovic scored 6 points and grabbed 4 rebounds. Spartak St.Petersburg was defeated 81-75 on the road by the lower-ranked Unics Kazan (#6). This season Dragovic averages only 1.9ppg. He has both Serbian and Montenegrin nationalities. Despite Dragovic played previously for the Serbian university national team, he is currently in the Montenegrin national team roster.

Dusan Djordjevic
Dusan Djordjevic
   #5. International guard Dusan Djordjevic (195-83, also represented by Beo Basket) led Base Oostende to a victory against the closely-ranked Spirou Charleroi (23-9) 68-63 in the Belgian Ethias League last Friday. Djordjevic scored 13 points and added 3 passes in 34 minutes. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. Telenet Oostende (23-9) is placed first in the Ethias League. It was his team's fifth consecutive victory in a row. They will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And that game will be critical. It's Djordjevic's first season with the team. Djordjevic is currently second on the list of best passers with 3.6apg. This year he also averages: 9.0ppg, 3.2rpg and 1.1spg in the 29 games. Similarly like Dragovic and Ivanovic above Djordjevic also holds two passports: Serbian and Montenegrin. Despite he played previously for the Serbian national team, Djordjevic is currently in the Montenegrin national team roster.

Ivan Todorovic
Ivan Todorovic
   #6. Power forward Ivan Todorovic (214-84, agency: Interperformances) contributed to Olimpi's victory against the closely-ranked Kutaisi (16-4) 76-67 in the Georgian Superleague on Thursday night. He recorded a double-double by scoring 13 points and getting 11 rebounds. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. Olimpi Tbilisi (16-4) is placed third in the Superleague. It was his team's fifth consecutive victory in a row. Todorovic's stats this season are: 13.5ppg, 7.5rpg and 1.3spg. Despite he played previously for the Serbian national team, Todorovic is also an international player who is currently on the senior Montenegrin National Team roster.

Boris Bakic
Boris Bakic
   #7. International guard Boris Bakic (194-86, another player represented by Beo Basket) contributed to a Radnicki Kragujevac's victory against the fifth-ranked Radnicki Basket (5-7) 77-69 in the Serbian A League in Tuesday night's game. He scored 9 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in 31 minutes. Radnicki Kragujevac (9-3) is placed second in SuperLiga group. There are only two games left until the end of the Second Stage. So now every game is very crucial. This year Bakic's overall stats are: 9.0ppg, 3.8rpg and 1.7apg in the 12 games. Despite he played previously for the Serbian national team, Bakic is currently in the Montenegrin national team roster.

Miljan Pavkovic
Miljan Pavkovic
   #8. Guard Miljan Pavkovic (178-81, another player represented by Beo Basket) is a teammate of previously mentioned Boris Bakic. But that was another game of his team in Serbian A League which we would like to mention. Pavkovic was not able to secure a victory for Radnicki Kragujevac (9-3) in their game against Partizan (0-0). He scored 8 points and added 7 assists. The second-placed Radnicki Kragujevac was defeated 82-76 in Beograd by the lower-ranked Partizan (#4) in the SuperLiga group. Pavkovic averaged so far 10.1ppg, 1.6rpg, 7.5apg and 1.2spg. Despite he played previously for the Serbian national team, Pavkovic is currently in the Montenegrin national team roster.

Zarko Rakocevic
Zarko Rakocevic
   #9. Former international forward Zarko Rakocevic (204-84) helped Lugano Tigers win their game against the closely-ranked Geneve Lions (18-6) 94-90 in the Swiss LNA on Sunday night. He had a double-double by scoring 15 points and getting 11 rebounds. Rakocevic also added 5 blocks in 39 minutes. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. Lugano Tigers (20-4) are placed first in the LNA. Rakocevic is ranked sixth on the list of the best rebounders in the league with 7.7rpg. This year his other stats are: 11.9ppg and 1.3apg in the 19 games. Despite Rakocevic played previously for the Serbian national team, he is currently in the Montenegrin national team roster.

Ivan Maras
Ivan Maras
   #10. Power forward Ivan Maras (208-86, another player represented by Beo Basket) helped Belfius Mons-Hainaut win their game against the closely-ranked Okapi Aalstar (18-14) 77-72 in the Belgian Ethias League in Monday night's game. Maras recorded 13 points and grabbed 5 rebounds. Belfius Mons-Hainaut (15-17) is placed fifth in the Ethias League. Maras' total stats this season are: 8.4ppg, 5.6rpg, 1.4apg and 1.7spg. Despite he played previously for the Serbian national team, Maras is also a former international player as two years ago he still played for the Montenegrin senior national team.

   #11. An experienced former international guard Branko Cuic (197-78), who plays in the Romanian Division A couldn't help Timisoara (21-7) in their last game. Despite his good performance Timisoara lost 89-104 on their home court in Timisoara to the lower-ranked (#4) Ploiesti. Cuic recorded 11 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists in 33 minutes. This year Cuic's total stats are: 9.2ppg, 5.6rpg and 4.6apg in the 37 games. Despite he played previously for the Serbian national team, Cuic is currently in the Montenegrin national team roster.

   #12. Former international center Stevan Milosevic (211-85, another player represented by Interperformances) couldn't help Sokhumi in their game against Armia in the Georgian Superleague. Despite his good performance on Saturday night He recorded a double-double by scoring 12 points and getting the same number of rebounds. Milosevic averaged so far 13.2ppg, 8.4rpg and 1.8apg. Despite he played previously for the Serbian national team, Milosevic is currently in the Montenegrin national team roster.

   #13. International guard Bojan Bakic (197-83) helped Hemofarm edge the sixth-ranked BKK Radnicki 95-94 in the Serbian A League in Tuesday night's game. He scored 16 points (went 6 for 6 at the free throw line) in 21 minutes. Bakic's stats this year are: 11.8ppg, 2.2rpg, 2.7apg and 1.1spg in the 10 games. Despite he played previously for the Serbian national team, Bakic is currently in the Montenegrin national team roster.

   #14. International guard Goran Jeretin (192-79, another player represented by Beo Basket) is a teammate of previously mentioned Vladimir Dasic and both played together in the last Slovenian Telemach League game. Jeretin managed to help Union Olimpija Ljubljana to win in overtime against the third-ranked Helios 81-78. He scored only 2 points and added 6 passes. Jeretin has averaged so far 1.8ppg and 2.5apg. He plays currently for the Montenegrin national team.

   #15. International center Boris Lalovic (206-81) is a teammate of previously mentioned Bojan Bakic and both played together in the last Serbian A League game. Lalovic helped Hemofarm edge the sixth-ranked BKK Radnicki 95-94. He scored 13 points and added 4 passes in 20 minutes. Lalovic averaged so far 11.4ppg and 4.0rpg in the 12 games. Despite he played previously for the Serbian national team, Lalovic is currently in the Montenegrin national team roster.


U21 National Team of Montenegro qulification roster announced - by Darko Pekic

The coach of U21 Montenegrin National Team Mihailo Pavicevic announced today the list of 17 players, potential members of the National Team roster for the European Championship in Slovenia (12-22 July). On the list there is not Nikola Ivanovic (187-G-94, agency: Beo Basket) who will play for the senior national team, and Nemanja Djurisic (203-F-92) who is injured.

Here is the list:

1. Andrej Pajovic (186-G-92) (Mornar)

2. Bojan Ratkovic (181-G-92) (Danilovgrad)

3. Mihailo Kasalica (185-PG-93) (Mornar)

4. Ivan Fatic (185-PG-93) (Mogren)

5. Nemanja Grabovica (190-G-92) (Sutjeska)

6. Milos Latkovic (193-SF-93) (Lovcen)

7. Marko Mugosa (197-F-93) (Buducnost)

8. Radosav Spasojevic (204-F/C-92, agency: Interperformances) (Arkadia, Austria)

9. Danilo Dragovic (195-G-92) (University of South California, USA)

10. Vukota Pavic (203-C-93) (Mornar)

11. Danilo Nikolic (201-C-93) (Buducnost)

12. Marko Todorovic (203-F-92) (Juventud, Spain)

13. Luka Radovic (205-F-92) (University of South Carolina, USA)

14. Nihad Musovic (USA)

15. Filip Sekulic (USA)

16. Pavle Raickovic (205-F-92) (USA)

17. Marko Kovac (Sutjeska)

In the Group A Montenegro will face France, Serbia and Germany.


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

Eurobasket.com All-Montenegrin League 1st Team 2012
#s#
Bojan Dubljevic
Dubljevic
Nemanja Vranjes
Vranjes
Ivan Jelenic
Jelenic
Cedomir Vitkovac
Vitkovac
Milos Lopicic
Lopicic
#e#5

Player of the Year: Bojan Dubljevic (205-C-91) of Buducnost
Guard of the Year: Ivan Jelenic (190-SG-85) of Mornar Bar
Forward of the Year: Cedomir Vitkovac (201-F-82) of Buducnost
Center of the Year: Bojan Dubljevic (205-C-91) of Buducnost
Import Player of the Year: Akeem Scott (186-PG-83) of Mornar Bar
Coach of the Year: Dejan Radonjic of Buducnost

1st Team
G: Nemanja Vranjes (188-88) of Sutjeska
SG: Ivan Jelenic (190-85) of Mornar Bar
F: Cedomir Vitkovac (201-82) of Buducnost
C: Milos Lopicic (216-90) of Lovcen
C: Bojan Dubljevic (205-91) of Buducnost

2nd Team
G: Nikola Ivanovic (187-94) of Buducnost
F: Marko Mugosa (197-93) of Buducnost
G/F: Aleksa Popovic (201-87) of Buducnost
F/C: Filip Barovic (208-90) of Mornar Bar
C: Vladan Jocovic (211-82) of Sutjeska

Honorable mention
Akeem Scott (186-PG-83) of Mornar Bar
Ljeko Nicaj (210-C-87) of KK Podgorica
Masan Vrbica (187-G-94) of Lovcen


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

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Kobe BRYANT
  LA Lakers
  (198-G-78)
  Avg: 27.9
 1. Bryant, LA Lakers27.9 
 2. Durant, Oklah.Ci.27.9 
 3. James, Miami Heat27.2 
 4. Love, Minnesota T.26.0 
 5. Westbrook, Oklah..23.4 
 6. Anthony, New Y.23.1 
 7. Nowitzki, Dallas M.22.0 
 8. Rose, Chicago B.21.9 
 9. Wade, Miami Heat21.8 
 10. Aldridge, Portlan.21.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Dwight HOWARD
  Orlando M.
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 14.5
 1. Howard, Orlando M.14.5 
 2. Love, Minnesota T.13.4 
 3. Bynum, LA Lakers11.8 
 4. Cousins, Sacramen.11.0 
 5. Humphries, New J.11.0 
 6. Gasol, LA Lakers10.3 
 7. Griffin, LA Clipp.10.3 
 8. Gortat, Phoenix10.0 
 9. Smith, Atlanta H.9.9 
 10. Noah, Chicago B.9.8 
Assists Per Game
 Rajon RONDO
  Boston C.
  (185-PG-86)
  Avg: 11.9
 1. Rondo, Boston C.11.9 
 2. Nash, Phoenix Suns10.7 
 3. Calderon, Toron.8.8 
 4. Paul, LA Clippers8.8 
 5. Williams, New J.8.7 
 6. Rubio, Minnesot.8.2 
 7. Wall, Washington W.8.0 
 8. Rose, Chicago B.7.9 
 9. Parker, San A.7.7 
 10. Conley, Memphis G.6.7 
Steals Per Game
 Chris PAUL
  LA Clippers
  (183-PG-85)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Paul, LA Clippers2.6 
 2. Rubio, Minnesot.2.2 
 3. Conley, Memphis G.2.1 
 4. Rondo, Boston C.1.9 
 5. James, Miami Heat1.9 
 6. Kidd, Dallas M.1.8 
 7. Millsap, Utah Jazz1.8 
 8. Ariza, N.Orleans H.1.7 
 9. Iguodala, Philadel.1.7 
 10. Wade, Miami Heat1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Serge IBAKA
  Oklah.Ci.
  (208-C/F-89)
  Avg: 3.6
 1. Ibaka, Oklah.Ci.3.6 
 2. McGee, Washingt.2.5 
 3. Hibbert, Indiana P.2.2 
 4. Howard, Orlando M.2.1 
 5. Bynum, LA Lakers2.1 
 6. Jordan, LA Clippers2.0 
 7. McGee, Denver N.2.0 
 8. Gasol, Memphis G.1.9 
 9. Biyombo, Charlott.1.8 
 10. Udoh, Golde S.1.7 


76ers stun Celtics 92-83 in Game 4 to even series - by Eurobasket News

Andre Iguodala (6'6''-G-84, college: Arizona) squared up for a 3-pointer from the wing like he had hundreds of times in his career.

This shot was different from all the others.

Iguodala continued a postseason where his final numbers don't pop on the box score, but the buckets are as pivotal as they get. He snapped a tie game with five straight points in the final 90 seconds to help the Philadelphia 76ers storm back from 18 points down in the third quarter and stun the Boston Celtics 92-83 on Friday night in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference semifinals.

The young Sixers were a team reborn in the second half and played like a squad that refused to roll over for the championship-tested Celtics.

''I don't even know where to start,'' Philadelphia coach Doug Collins said. ''Our guys are pretty amazing. They really are.''

Iguodala certainly has been.

One of the more maligned athletes in recent Philadelphia history, he's changing his reputation one fourth-quarter point at a time.

Iguodala put the Sixers ahead 85-83 with a step-back jumper over a flailing Ray Allen (6'5''-G-75, college: Connecticut) with 1:22 left. Then he took the feed from a driving Williams and buried a 3-pointer for a five-point lead.

Game over.

''That's not the first time he found me in that same exact spot,'' Iguodala said. ''Just not as big a platform as it was tonight. But it worked out for us.''

With the huge comeback, the Sixers tied the series at 2-2 and guaranteed a return home for one more game.

Game 5 is Monday in Boston.

They can thank Iguodala, Louis Williams (6'3''-PG-86), Evan Turner (6'7''-G/F-88, college: Ohio St.) and Lavoy Allen (6'9''-C/F-89, college: Temple) for an unforgettable second half that left the Celtics purely dazed following an outcome that hardly seemed possible when Boston led 14-0 to start the game.

Iguodala and Turner scored 16 points. Williams scored 13 of his 15 points in the second half. Allen grabbed 10 rebounds.

Kevin Garnett (6'11''-F-76) had his first miserable outing - finishing with nine points - in an otherwise monster series. With Garnett in a funk, so were the Celtics.

Garnett, who turns 36 on Saturday, missed nine of 12 shots. He had little help from an offense that sputtered after the sizzling start. Paul Pierce scored 24 points and Rajon Rondo had 15 points and 15 assists.

''We had a team down and we didn't finish them off,'' Garnett said. ''It's pretty disappointing. So, we have to go back home. They did what they needed to do to protect their home court, now we have to go do the same thing.''

The Sixers just kept attacking, turning a first half of airballs, botched dunks and sloppy defense into a full-blown display of near-flawless basketball.

Thaddeus Young's thunderous slam tied the game at 63 in the middle of the fourth. And when Jodie Meeks drained a 3-pointer on the Sixers' next trip down the court for Philadelphia's first lead a packed crowd of 20,411 fans stomped their feet and unleashed two hours of pent-up jubilation.

Williams hounded Pierce and forced a turnover, fed the ball to a streaking Turner for a dunk and put the lead at 68-65.

It was that kind of hustle that brought the Sixers back.

After Garnett blocked Allen's shot, Young snagged the ball out of the air and scored to make it 74-all.

''In the second half, they came out and used the energy of their crowd, and we just didn't respond,'' Pierce said.

Game 4 came down to young legs, fresh enthusiasm and untested big-game experience vs. aging, championship-tested stars fighting for another title.

Give the edge to the Sixers.

Iguodala has become a fan favorite with a clutch postseason. He sank the winning free throws in Game 6 to finish off the top-seeded Chicago Bulls in the first round.

And it was Iguodala who finished off the Celtics in Game 4.

The Celtics look primed for a blowout victory after the first 10 minutes of the game. They hold out hope a trip back to Boston can make them forget about this collapse.

''I thought we lost the composure, and once we did, we never really returned to playing basketball the way we played in the first half,'' coach Doc Rivers said. ''They pressure. They took us out of a lot of stuff.''

Philadelphia CEO Adam Aron tweeted at the break, ''This will have to be one of the best come backs ever for the (at)Sixers.''

Down 15 at the half, the under-25 Sixers found their spark, their legs and their shooting touch to crank up the pressure on the Celtics.

Williams hit a 3, Iguodala hit a 3, and Williams converted a three-point play to make it 58-54. Williams stood on the free-throw line with the widest smile of anyone in the building and calmly sank the deficit-slicing free throw.

Meeks, a starter-turned-sub, stole an errant pass and scored his first bucket of the game to make it 63-59 at the end of the quarter.

The 76ers' 10 baskets in the third were one more than their total for the entire half and their 28 points were three shy off their halftime total.

''We're just going to keep fighting,'' Collins said. ''That's what we do.''

The Sixers had vowed they would be a more determined team after the veteran Celtics dismantled and demoralized them on their home court in Game 3.

The Sixers said after the 16-point loss they would return more focused to prevent another hot Celtics' start that took them out of the game and sucked the atmosphere out of the Wells Fargo Center.

The Celtics squashed that attitude moments after the opening tip before thousands of fans had taken their seats.

Pierce and Avery Bradley hit 3-pointers, Garnett hit a pull-up 20-footer and the Celtics raced to a 14-0 lead only 3 1/2 minutes into the game.

The Sixers truly couldn't find their footing. Young bounced the ball off his sneaker on a drive down the lane, and Pierce converted on the other end for an 18-3 lead.

The Celtics could never find that extra scoring boost to truly put away the Sixers. Rondo, Garnett and Allen all had quiet first 24 minutes and the Celtics let the lead drop to seven.

Rondo scored an uncontested bucket coming out of a timeout to end the half and put the Celtics up 46-31.

''That was probably the worst we could shoot,'' Iguodala said. ''They were playing as good as they could play and we were shooting poorly.''

Boy, did it ever work out in the end.

Courtesy of http://sports.yahoo.com


Kobe leads Lakers past Thunder in 99-96 thriller - by Eurobasket News

Kobe Bryant's (6'6''-G-78) perfection at the free-throw line was big for the desperate Lakers. His poise in the fourth quarter was even bigger, and it got Los Angeles back into its second-round series with Oklahoma City.

Bryant made 18 free throws without a miss and scored 14 of his 36 points in the fourth quarter, and the Lakers rallied late for a 99-96 victory in Game 3 on Friday night, cutting the Thunder's second-round series lead to 2-1.

Metta World Peace (6'7''-G/F-79, college: St.John's) swiped the ball from Kevin Durant (6'9''-G/F-88, college: Texas) and hit two free throws with 12.9 seconds left for the third-seeded Lakers, who shook off the memory of their late collapse in Game 2. When Durant missed a potential tying 3-pointer before Andrew Bynum (7'0''-C-87) blocked Serge Ibaka's shot at the buzzer, the Lakers' frenzied crowd celebrated only their second victory in the last six playoff games.

Game 4 in the back-to-back set is Saturday night.

Durant scored 31 points before missing his last shot for Oklahoma City, which seemed poised to move to the brink of its second straight trip to the Western Conference finals with a five-point lead inside the final 3 minutes. Instead, the Thunder lost for the first time in the postseason, getting outscored 12-4 down the stretch.

After blowing a seven-point lead in the final 2 minutes of Game 2, Los Angeles finished Game 3 on a 6-2 run in the final 33 seconds, all on free throws. The Lakers went 41 for 42 from the line, including 26 for 27 in the second half.

'You have to knock those freebies down,' Lakers coach Mike Brown said. 'You're not going to get any better look in a game than a free throw. That's how good (the Thunder) are.'

The Lakers said the 41-of-42 performance at the line was the second-best in NBA playoff history for teams with more than 30 attempts. Only Dallas' 49-for-50 effort against San Antonio on May 19, 2003, was better.

Russell Westbrook (6'3''-PG-88, college: UCLA) and James Harden (6'5''-G-89, college: Arizona St.) scored 21 points apiece for the Thunder, who couldn't match the Lakers' late-game execution after soundly out-executing the Lakers in Game 2.

'We put them on the line,' Oklahoma City coach Scott Brooks said. 'We can't do that. Down the stretch, you have to defend them without fouling and rebound the basketball. Unfortunately, we came up short.'

Bynum had 15 points and 11 rebounds for the Lakers, who got 12 points apiece from Pau Gasol, Ramon Sessions and Steve Blake. Gasol also had 11 rebounds and six assists for the Lakers, who didn't appear worried while flirting with an 0-3 deficit, which has never been overcome in NBA history.

'We've got a great, veteran group of guys who have been through all this,' Brown said. 'They stepped up to the plate and gave us a chance to win down the stretch.'

Oklahoma City's bench celebrated a 92-87 lead on Westbrook's breakaway dunk with 2:55 to play, but the Lakers trimmed away with Gasol's free throws, Bryant's layup and several possessions of tenacious defense. Bryant's free throws put the Lakers ahead with 1:09 to play.

Durant immediately hit a go-ahead jumper with a hand squarely in his face, but Bryant added two more free throws - his 15th and 16th - to put Los Angeles ahead 95-94. The Thunder finished 26 of 28 from the line, but the Lakers went 17 for 18 in the fourth quarter alone.

The game was the first of four second-round NBA playoff games in just over 48 hours at Staples Center, also the site of the NHL's Western Conference finals between and Kings and Phoenix on Thursday and Sunday. The top-seeded San Antonio Spurs will face the Los Angeles Clippers on Saturday in an afternoon game before the Thunder and Lakers play Game 4.

Thanks to the NBA's shortened schedule, the Lakers are playing their first back-to-back playoff games since May 22-23, 1999, in the second round against San Antonio during another season shortened by labor strife.

Staples Center was bubbling with energy even before tipoff, with thousands of Lakers fans actually deigning to wear the gold giveaway T-shirts that are usually tucked under chairs or slung over shoulders.

The Lakers responded to the buzz, jumping to a 16-6 lead while Oklahoma City missed its first five shots and used two timeouts. The Lakers led by 12 points in the first quarter, but Oklahoma City erased it quickly in the second quarter when Bryant left the game.

Harden was booed the first time he touched the ball in his first game at Staples since World Peace gave him a concussion with a vicious elbow in the Lakers' penultimate regular-season games.

Tempers flared in the second quarter when Westbrook furiously attempted to prevent World Peace from tying him up for a jump ball. World Peace's knee came down on Westbrook's leg during a brief skirmish including Jordan Hill, and both Westbrook and World Peace received technical fouls.

Oklahoma City surged in front during the third quarter, but the Lakers kept it close despite a rough quarter from Bryant. Kendrick Perkins' interior defense largely prevented Bynum from scoring in the low post, but the Thunder also struggled for offensive consistency.

The Lakers stayed in Game 3 with incredible free-throw shooting, making their first 28 foul shots before Bynum missed with 9:15 to play.

Courtesy of www.ktvn.com


Trail Blazers seek 'two or three' more general manager candidates - by Eurobasket News

The Trail Blazers' search for a general manager will likely include 'two or three' more candidates, who will join Jeff Bower and David Morway as finalists, president Larry Miller said.

Bower, the former New Orleans general manager, and Morway, the general manager of the Pacers, are the only candidates who have interviewed with owner Paul Allen.

'We are still looking to get a least a few more people in front of Paul ... at least two or three,' Miller said. 'We are still going through the process of determining who those folks are.'
Miller, who is heading the search with Blazers' head of the board of directors, Bert Kolde, alluded to pursuing candidates who are currently employed by NBA teams.

'I'm talking to a lot of different people -- agents, asking teams for permission -- and going through the process of determining who we want to get in front of Paul.'

During his search Miller said he hones in on five topics: Who they like as a coaching candidate; the candidates' history of transactions; communication style; ability to integrate basketball and business; and the ability to fit with Allen.

'We talk a lot about the different moves they have made, in terms of why they made certain decisions,' Miller said. 'And if it didn't work out, what they learned from that. We also like to enlighten them on how Paul likes to see things done, and whether that works with how they like to do things.'

Miller said the interviews with Bower and Morway 'went well' and that the expansion of the candidate pool is not a reflection of dissatisfaction but of making sure the organization finds the best candidate. Miller in the past has stated that the organization might have rushed its last general manager move when Rich Cho was hired in July 2010 after a three-hour interview aboard Allen's yacht in Helsinki. Cho was fired 10 months later on May 23, 2011.

A closer look at Morway: Last week, CSNNW.com brought to light a 2005 story from the San Diego Tribune that reported Morway was sued by former Major League pitcher Greg W. Harris for fraud and racketeering while Morway was his agent. The matter was settled in 1999 for an undisclosed amount. Before joining the NBA in 1999, Morway was the founder and owner of Professional Excellence Sports, Inc., a sports agency.

Miller this week said he was aware of the claims made against Morway, but said 'I wouldn't say it is a deterrent' in Morway's candidacy.

'We are going to do our due diligence,' Miller said. 'We would do it anyway with any potential candidate, and it's the same with him. It's something we felt like we needed to learn more about. There is always two sides, and there is always what is out there, and what really happened. So we are trying to figure out what happened.'

Morway's agent, Steve Kauffman, declined to comment.

Coaching vacancy: Miller said he would like to have his new general manager lead the search for a head coach, but he said he would step in and make contact if the Blazers feel a coaching candidate is being courted by another team.

'Our plan is to still hire a GM and let the GM be involved in the coaching search, but by the same token, if there is a coach out there and we say 'We want that guy' and have to move quicker to do that, we will.'

Courtesy of www.oregonlive.com


Greg Oden wants to play for the Miami Heat - by Eurobasket News

It's not particularly controversial these days to say that Greg Oden's (7'0''-C-88, college: Ohio St.) basketball career is in a state of flux, in the sense that no one would be surprised if he never plays again. He has a lot to prove, first and foremost that he can stay healthy. And it's likely that, if any team signs him to a contract this summer, he won't be in their plans as a main part of the rotation. Oden will have to show that he can be a part of those plans.

Oden, for his part, seems to understand his peculiar situation. However, that doesn't mean he's not aiming high. In fact, his agent says he wants to play for the Miami Heat. From Barry Jackson for the Miami Herald (via PBT):

There's a 24-year-old free agent center who's affordable, has impressive career rebounding averages and has interest in playing for the Heat eventually once he recovers from his latest knee surgery, according to his agent. The only problem? It's a very big one: He's not healthy and can't seem to stay healthy.

Greg Oden, 7-0, hasn't played since 2009-10 and is recovering from his fifth knee surgery in five seasons. A Grantland.com story said that 'right now' Oden's plan is to take next season off to rehab, then come back in 2013-14. But his agent, Mike Conley Sr., told us Oden is positioned be ready to play in December or January 'as far as being effective and in shape' and will explore options in the coming months, with the possibility of joining a team next season. But nobody obviously can know for sure when he will be ready.

The Heat hasn't called but 'Greg has talked about Miami,' Conley said. 'He has interest. He's not retiring.' Oden, the No. 1 pick in the 2007 draft, has played just 82 career games for Portland (which released him in March) and averaged 9.4 points, 7.3 rebounds and 1.4 blocks.

Whether the Heat takes a flyer on Oden or not and Miami has nothing to lose, really, if or when they ever deem him healthy - the bigger question is this: With limited financial resources, can Pat Riley significantly upgrade at center during the Big Three era?

If Oden can stay healthy, the Heat would be a great fit: They could use a solid defensive center, and he wouldn't be asked to do much more than rebound, protect the rim, and catch passes for dunks and lay-ins. Whether or not he's ready to play is another question, and an agent's estimate of his recovery time is obviously going to be more positive than other takes. But it wouldn't be the worst move for Miami.

What's more notable is that Oden is trying to go to one of the league's best teams rather than broadcasting how much he just wants to have a job. It's typically bad to look too desperate in these situations, but middling free agents also need to know their situations. If Oden isn't willing to settle for anything but the best, he might be met with disappointment in free agency.

That process is a ways off, of course, and for all we know there will be legitimate interest from teams with confidence in their training staffs. For now, though, image matters, and Oden would be well-served by displaying his willingness to adapt to circumstances.

Courtesy of http://sports.yahoo.com


Dwyane Wade fights Erik Spoelstra in timeout - by Eurobasket News

In Dwyane Wade's (6'4''-G-82, college: Marquette) words, he 'made history' Thursday night.

History for being horrible.

The 2006 Finals MVP shot 2-for-13 from the field and finished with five points in the Miami Heat's 94-75 loss to the Indiana Pacers in Game 3.

In the third quarter, Wade took out his frustration on Miami Heat coach Erik Spoelstra . He had just missed a three-point attempt and was late getting back on defense. In the timeout, Spoelstra appeared to call out Wade, which caused the Heat guard to get angry and say something negative in his coach's face. Spoelstra yelled back at Wade and then teammates held back Wade as the camera changed angles.

After the game, it was as if it never happened.

'I don't even remember what you all are talking about,' Wade told reporters.

'That happens,' Spoelstra said. 'Anybody that has been part of a team or has been a coach or been a player, you have no idea how often things like that happen. That was during a very emotional part of the game. We were getting our butt kicked. Those exchanges happen all the time during the course of an NBA season.'

Whether it was an issue after the game or not, it proves the Heat are having major issues and it doesn't take away from Wade's unexpected outing.

When Mario Chalmers scores 25 points and Wade has only five, it's obvious something has gone haywire.

Wade had no points at halftime, his first scoreless half in 95 playoff games.

'He obviously wasn't himself,'' teammate LeBron James said.

Obviously. He certainly had to play bad enough to take the blame off you, LeBron.

'We're not going to win a ball game with Chris Bosh out and me scoring five points, obviously, so I take a lot of the onus on that,' Wade said.

Courtesy of www.usatoday.com


Roy Hibbert seeks release from JaBA - Jamaican centre wants to play for US at Olympics - by Eurobasket News

Ajani Williams, president of the Jamaica Basketball Association (JaBA), said National Basketball Association (NBA) player Roy Hibbert (218-C-86, college: Georgetown) has asked the administration for a release in order to become eligible to play for the United States at this summer's Olympic Games.

'He (Hibbert's agent) said they were grateful to us for having him playing with our team because he has a shot at playing with Team USA, and so they would like JaBA to release him from the national team,' said Williams during an interview with The Gleaner yesterday.

However, there are some compliance issues that have to be worked out with USA Basketball and the world governing body FIBA.

'Our simple response was that we can't just handle this matter from JaBA to the player or from JaBA to the agent, and so on, it has to be from JaBA to the USA Basketball Federation,' said Williams.

'The United States Federation would need to write us and state that they want this player, and at that point JaBA can speak directly to the federation and FIBA, based on the player transferring from one national team to another,' Williams said.

One of the top centres

The 7ft 2in, 278-pound Hibbert who is currently representing Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference semi-finals in the NBA play-offs, against the Miami Heat, has emerged as one of the top centres in the league this season.

He averaged 12 points and eight rebounds during the regular season.

Hibbert last represented Jamaica in the Centro Basketball Tournament in the Dominican Republic in 2010.

Williams added that his association has invested a lot in Hibbert, and therefore they will be seeking compensation for his release.

'JaBA just can't just release him because there was a cost that goes into getting Roy Hibbert. We paid a lot of money for NBA insurance for him,' Williams said.

'We also did a lot of things around him, and so there are going to be several considerations before JaBA releases him,' he added.

Williams stated that Hibbert's absence would be a big blow for the national team, which is scheduled to participate in the Central American Basketball Championships next month.

'We would do much better with him, but the good news is that we have a lot of big men like Jerome Jordan, who could have come off the bench behind Roy,' he said.

Courtesy of http://jamaica-gleaner.com


Miami Heat's LeBron James takes on big load when playing power forward - by Eurobasket News

Though LeBron James (6'8''-F-84) is willing to play any position where hes needed, he admitted before Game 2 on Tuesday that logging significant minutes at power forward takes a toll.

With Chris Bosh sidelined by a strained abdominal muscle, James is playing more minutes at power forward, though he continues to start at small forward. He did good work defending Pacers power forward David West for stretches of Game 2.

Its a lot more taxing being in there with bigger guys, James said. Defensively is the biggest difference. When youre on the perimeter, theres more space. The interior is more cramped and physical. But Im ready for the challenge.

The advantage of playing power forward is that I can get more rebounds and start the break. James said he has played more positions this season than any of his seven years in Cleveland.

Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com


Seattle arena plan moves ahead - by Eurobasket News

Attempts to build a nearly $500 million arena that could bring the NBA back to Seattle took another step forward on Wednesday.

And if an NHL team turns out to not be part of the equation, the public investment will be less than originally believed.

The city, King County and private investor Chris Hansen announced a memorandum of understanding on Wednesday laying out the financial responsibilities for the proposed venue.

The proposal included two significant changes, the result of three months of negotiations between Hansen and the local municipalities, from the original unveiled in February. The agreement indicates that construction on the facility could begin with only an NBA franchise on board. Previously, it was believed that both an NBA and an NHL franchise would need to be committed tenants to make the plan work.

The plan calls for nearly $300 million in private investment from Hansen's group. The amount of public support would be capped at $120 million if it's only the NBA making a return to the Puget Sound region. It would be $200 million if NBA and NHL franchises are involved.

The goal is still to bring both professional leagues, but the project can move forward with only the NBA in hand, which is the focus of Hansen, a San Francisco hedge-fund manager and main investor in the project.

'Our job is, as soon as possible, when we have an agreement in place, we'll be very aggressive in our efforts to make sure that everybody knows that we would like to have a franchise back here,' Hansen said. 'I don't want to comment on specific franchises again, but we'll do the best that we can.'

The agreement now goes before the Seattle City Council and King County Council for review. Both entities would need to approve the agreement for the project to move forward. No construction would begin until after a franchise has been acquired.

Other little nuggets are laid out within the 24-page MOU, including the bullet point that any NBA team using the facility will have to be named the SuperSonics, subject to NBA approval. Hansen also included a side letter where he suggests that KeyArena would be used for up to two years as a temporary home with a handful of upgrades paid for by Hansen's investor group, ArenaCo. Following its use as a temporary facility, Hansen suggests KeyArena could become a smaller arena, a theater venue or exhibition center.

But the bulk of the MOU focused on the financial details of the public investment, which is to be paid for through taxes and revenues generated by the new arena and has a number of public protections included.

The project calls for about $290 million in private investment from Hansen's group, along with $200 million from the city and county through 30-year bonds. Any franchise that comes to Seattle and uses the arena would be required to sign a non-relocation agreement that would span the life of those bonds.

All construction costs, including overruns, would be paid for by Hansen's group, along with all environmental studies and permitting. Once that process is completed, most of the public investment is placed on the city.

The MOU calls for an initial investment of $100 million by the city for acquisition of the project site. During a second investment window, the city would contribute another $20 million if both an NBA and NHL team are acquired, with the remaining $80 million in public investment being bonded by the county.

If only an NBA team is acquired, the public bonding would be capped at $120 million with $115 million coming from the city and only $5 million coming from the county.

'We have to keep taking steps along the way,' Seattle mayor Mike McGinn said. 'I guess what I'm trying to say is it would be a real shot in the arm to our community to bring back the Sonics and that has value.'

Specifications for the arena were also released. It would hold up to 19,000 for concerts, 18,500 for basketball and 17,500 for hockey and be constructed on a site just south of downtown Seattle in the neighborhood including Safeco Field and CenturyLink Field.

Putting a third sports venue is the same area has drawn concern about traffic and transportation, most notably by the Port of Seattle and the Seattle Mariners. Hansen's group has paid for a traffic study currently being conducted by the Seattle Department of Transportation.

Courtesy of ESPN


CJ Watson undergoes foot procedure - by Eurobasket News

When Tom Thibodeau consistently defended C.J. Watson's (6'2''-G-84, college: Tennessee) postseason struggles by saying the guard was playing through pain, most assumed the coach referred to Watson's lingering elbow and ankle injuries.

Instead, Watson also played through plantar fasciitis in both feet that forced him to undergo an outpatient procedure Thursday morning.

'It was hard,' Watson said by phone. 'I couldn't do all the things that I'm usually capable of doing. But I knew with Derrick (Rose) out, I had to give the team what I could.'

It's the second straight summer Watson has undergone a procedure to address the painful condition. Watson had shock wave therapy performed, which basically is controlled blasts of sound waves designed to break up the damaged tissue.

Both Joakim Noah and Taj Gibson used the procedure in 2010 and neither have had issues since. Watson said he also had platelet-rich plasma therapy performed, wherein doctors took blood from another part of his body and injected it into his feet in an attempt to accelerate healing.

'I can lift weights, but they said I can't do any running or jumping for four to six weeks,' Watson said.

Watson shot 24.1 percent while starting five of the Bulls' six playoff games in relief of Rose, who tore his left anterior cruciate ligament in Game 1 of the 76ers' series. The Bulls have until July 10 to decide whether to pick up Watson's $3.2 million team option.

' (Management) said they would keep me and my agent updated,' Watson said. 'I have no expectations either way. I'd like to be back.'

Courtesy of www.chicagotribune.com


Gregg Popovich the no-brainer call to replace Mike Krzyzewski as Team USA coach? - by Eurobasket News

The Sacramento Bee's Ailiene Voisin adds support to a notion many basketball observers have been discussing for some time: the San Antonio Spurs' Gregg Popovich should take over as coach of Team USA when Mike Krzyzewski steps down after the London Olympics this summer.

Popovich was named Coach of the Year this season, and over 42 percent of NBA general managers said in January that they believe hes the best coach in the league. And LeBron James, when asked if Popovich would make a good coach for the U.S. squad, responded, Absolutely. He knows the game. He knows the players. And he's coached enough stars at San Antonio. I think he'd be great (as Olympic coach). If Coach K decides he doesn't want to do it any more, I think Coach Popovich would be a great candidate. His resume speaks for itself.

Krzyzewski, in fact, did indicate this week that the London Games will be his last with the team.

Writes Voisin, Taking nothing away from Tom Izzo, John Calipari, Mike D'Antoni, Nate McMillan and others within the college and NBA ranks, choosing the next national team coach should be the easiest decision in (USA Basketball chairman Jerry) Colangelo's tenure.

'If you recall, Mike and Pop were my two choices in 2005,' Colangelo told Voisin. 'When I talked to Coach K, he almost jumped through the phone. I didn't sense that same enthusiasm in my conversation with 'Pop.' Afterward, he sent me a letter and said I misinterpreted what he said. He felt I had misjudged him, and maybe I did. But that was a long time ago. How can anyone argue with his record, his performance? With him as a great coach?'

If theres hard feelings because of the way that decision was made, Voisin suggests, they can be easily overcome.

After London, we'll sit down and look at everything, Colangelo said. Pop would certainly be a leading candidate if it's going to be a pro coach.'

Courtesy of http://aol.sportingnews.com


Jeremy Lin named to USA Select team - by Eurobasket News

New York Knicks guard Jeremy Lin (6'3''-PG-88, college: Harvard) is one of 13 players who have been named to the USA Select Team -- the team that will scrimmage with the United States' Olympic basketball team -- U.S. media reported Monday.

One report speculated that Lin's inclusion was helped by the presence of Mike D'Antoni, Lin's former coach with the Knicks, on the U.S. Olympic basketball team's coaching staff.
Lin had said previously that it would be 'cool' if he were named to the team.

Others named to the team include the No. 1 pick in the 2011 NBA draft Kyrie Irving and Ryan Anderson of the Orlando Magic, the 2011-2012 winner of the NBA's Most Improved Player award.

Also named to the Select team were John Wall, DeMar DeRozan, Paul George, Gordon Hayward, Kawhi Leonard, DeJuan Blair, Taj Gibson, DeMarcus Cousins, Derrick Favors and Klay Thompson.

It is widely believed that the players named to the Select team have the inside track on representing the United States at the World Championships in 2014 and at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio De Janeiro.

The NBA has said that this year's U.S. Olympic team will hold its first practice on July 6 in Las Vegas.

The candidates for the U.S. Olympic team's roster have largely been decided. Jerry Colangelo, executive director of the NBA, said the 12-player roster will be announced July 7.

Courtesy of http://focustaiwan.tw


T-Wolves to visit the Pentagon? - by Julius Johnson

T-Wolves to visit the Pentagon?

Not exactly.

Sioux Falls based Sanford Health has started construction of the Sanford Pentagon (http://sanfordpentagon.com), a 160,000-square-foot facility that includes nine basketball courts.

Sanford already has existing sponsorships with the Sioux Falls Skyforce and the Minnesota Timberwolves, a relationship that was made public during the 2010 MLB playoffs, when Sanford signage became a right field fixture (from the wall of the Target Center).

As some NBA teams have conducted training camps as far away as Istanbul, Turkey, don't be surprised to see the T-Wolves visit the Sanford Pentagon.




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Retaining Claros is 'gonna be a hard one', says Rainmen owner - by Eurobasket News

The Halifax Rainmen are hoping to have their head coaching situation resolved by early next month.

Josep Claros, who brought the Rainmen closer to a championship than any coach in their five-year history, has returned to Barcelona to spend time with his family and ponder his coaching future.

Claros signed on as head coach last summer and guided the Rainmen to a 23-13 record and a spot in the National Basketball League of Canada final. After the season ended, he took over as head coach of the Pioneros de Quintana Roo and led them to a FIBA Americas League championship.

'That's gonna be a hard one', admitted Rainmen owner Andre Levingston. 'I'm not sure about that yet. We would love to have coach back, naturally. He did a great job for us and hopefully we can retain him.'

Levingston said hes giving Claros time to think it over and will meet with him next month.

In other news, the Rainmen have already decided on the five players they will protect from NBL Canada free agency. Although they dont need to submit their protected list to the league until the end of the month, Levingston said he will protect guards Taliek Brown, Chris Hagan and Joey Haywood and forwards Tyrone Levett and Darnell Hugee.

It doesnt mean those players will be back with the Rainmen, as they are still free to sign in other professional leagues and could receive more lucrative offers elsewhere. But Levingston is hoping he can keep as many of them around as possible.

Those are guys we wanted to protect and when the time comes, well try to sign them, he said.

Courtesy of http://metronews.ca


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SMU fires athletics director Steve Orsini - by Eurobasket News

SMU athletic director Steve Orsini has been fired, effective immediately.

School president R. Gerald Turner announced the move in a news release Thursday. There were no specific reasons given for the decision, which came only weeks after Orsini hired Hall of Fame basketball coach Larry Brown .

Turner says it became apparent to him that a change was necessary after several discussions over the last few weeks. Turner thanked Orsini for his contributions and said a national search would begin immediately to find a new athletic director.

SMU is set to move from Conference USA to the Big East Conference in July 2013.

Courtesy of www.usatoday.com


ODU will join C-USA in 2013 - by Eurobasket News

Old Dominion will announce Thursday it will move from the Colonial Athletic Association to Conference USA in 2013.

On May 1, CBSSports.com reported ODU would join C-USA along with North Texas, Florida International, Louisiana Tech, Texas San Antonio and Charlotte.

The school will hold a 2:30 p.m. press conference on campus.

The addition of ODU will give C-USA 14 members in 2013 and ultimately the league is expected to split into two divisions: East - East Carolina, FIU, Marshall, Southern Mississippi, UAB, Charlotte and ODU; West - Louisiana Tech, North Texas, Rice, Texas San Antonio, Tulane, Tulsa and UTEP.

C-USA was forced to seek new members after Houston, SMU, UCF and Memphis announced they were leaving for the Big East in 2013. By maintaining at least 12 football members, C-USA will continue to hold its football championship game.

C-USA originally was going to merge with the Mountain West into one league, but there were too many legal obstacles and that will no longer happen, sources said. Instead, C-USA increased to 14 members and the Mountain West increased to 10 members by adding Utah State and San Jose State in 2013.

ODU is the latest school to leave the Colonial Athletic Association along with VCU, which will join the Atlantic 10 this fall, and Georgia State, which is headed to the Sun Belt. CAA football member UMass left last season for the MAC.

To help offset its losses, sources said the Colonial may pursue Davidson and Charleston.

Courtesy of www.cbssports.com


Oliver Luck staying at West Virginia - by Eurobasket News

Ever since Bob Bowlsby was announced as the new Big 12 commissioner, leaving his old position as athletic director at Stanford vacant, there have been rumors that West Virginia athletic director Oliver Luck would replace Bowlsby in Palo Alto.

After all, Luck's son, Andrew Luck, helped put Stanford's athletic department back on the college football map, so it made sense.

Though just because it makes sense doesn't mean it's happening, as West Virginia's president, Jim Clements, told the Charleston Gazette that Luck will remain in Morgantown.

'I sat down with Oliver,' Clements told the Gazette. 'I told him I need to know because I've been getting inquiries, calls and texts, and he said, 'Jim, I love it here; I'm a Mountaineer; I'm staying.'

'He's doing a great job. We need him. We have a good team in place. He's made it clear: He's staying.'

Since taking over for Ed Pastilong at West Virginia, Luck has hired Dana Holgorsen to run the football program and also helped engineer West Virginia's move from the Big East to the Big 12.

Courtesy of www.cbssports.com


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

Standings Men

NBL Standings
 1. Bay Hawks 12-3 
 2. Auckland P. 12-3 
 3. Hub Jets 10-5 
 4. Wellington S. 9-7 
 5. Taranaki MA 7-9 
 6. Nelson G. 6-9 
 7. OceanaGold N. 5-10 
 8. Southland S. 5-11 
 9. Harbour H. 3-12 

Regular Season: Round 12

May. 18: Southland S. - Harbour H. 96-81
May. 18: Wellington S. - Auckland P. 91-94
May. 16: Harbour H. - Bay Hawks 90-96
May. 18: Hub Jets - Taranaki MA 104-77
May. 19: Nelson G. - Auckland P.
May. 19: OceanaGold N. - Harbour H.
May. 20: Hub Jets - Bay Hawks


Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Josh PACE
  Hub Jets
  (198-G/F-83)
  Avg: 23
 1. Pace, Hub Jets23.0 
 2. Wright, OceanaGo.22.6 
 3. Tisby, OceanaGo.22.1 
 4. Leasure, Taranaki.21.3 
 5. Jones, Nelson G.21.2 
 6. Hudson, Taranaki.20.9 
 7. Braswell, Southlan.20.6 
 8. Horvath, Hub Jets20.5 
 9. Tait, Auckland P.19.8 
 10. Abney, Southland19.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Nick HORVATH
  Hub Jets
  (208-F/C-81)
  Avg: 15.8
 1. Horvath, Hub Jets15.8 
 2. Tisby, OceanaGo.11.7 
 3. Atkinson, Harbo.10.3 
 4. Abney, Southland10.3 
 5. Wright, OceanaGo.9.1 
 6. Frank, Wellington8.8 
 7. Muhammad, Aucklan.8.5 
 8. Harrison, Nelson G.8.2 
 9. Johnson, Bay Hawks8.2 
 10. Pace, Hub Jets7.3 
Assists Per Game
 Jason CROWE
  Wellington S.
  (193-G-76)
  Avg: 8.8
 1. Crowe, Wellington8.8 
 2. Tait, Auckland P.7.8 
 3. Jones, Nelson G.5.1 
 4. Braswell, Southlan.5.1 
 5. Kenny, Bay Hawks4.3 
 6. Wright, OceanaGo.4.3 
 7. Bailey, Harbour H.4.1 
 8. Hudson, Taranaki.3.8 
 9. Pace, Hub Jets3.7 
 10. Young, Bay Hawks3.5 
Steals Per Game
 Kevin BRASWELL
  Southlan.
  (188-G-79)
  Avg: 3
 1. Braswell, Southlan.3.0 
 2. Crowe, Wellington2.8 
 3. Wright, OceanaGo.2.2 
 4. Leasure, Taranaki.2.0 
 5. Bailey, Harbour H.2.0 
 6. Muhammad, Aucklan.1.9 
 7. Dorsey, Auckland P.1.7 
 8. Tait, Auckland P.1.7 
 9. Ross, OceanaGold1.7 
 10. Kenny, Bay Hawks1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Michael HARRISON
  Nelson G.
  (206-F/C-84)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Harrison, Nelson G.2.1 
 2. Tisby, OceanaGo.1.5 
 3. Trousdell, Wellin.1.3 
 4. Atkinson, Harbo.1.2 
 5. Wright, OceanaGo.1.2 
 6. Abney, Southland1.0 
 7. Scott, Wellington1.0 
 8. Muhammad, Aucklan.0.9 
 9. Frank, Wellington0.7 
 10. Prewster, Southla.0.7 



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


Akinlolu Akingbala's double-double lands him Player of the Week award among Nigerians playing currently abroad - by Eurobasket Center

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

Akinlolu Akingbala
Akinlolu Akingbala
   #1. This week's number one is former international center Akinlolu Akingbala (208-83, college: Clemson). He led Sluc Nancy to a victory over the tenth-ranked JDA Dijon (14-16) 79-68 in the French ProA in Wednesday night's game. Akingbala was MVP of the game. He had a double-double by scoring 18 points and getting 11 rebounds in 32 minutes on the court. Sluc Nancy Basket Pro (18-12) is placed fifth in the ProA. Akingbala's team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And that game will be critical. It's Akingbala's fourth season with the team. He belongs to league's best rebounders (ranked #3) and also on the list of best blockers (fifth place). Akingbala has very reliable stats this year: 12.5ppg, 8.0rpg, 1.2bpg, 2FGP: 63.5%(146-230) and FT: 56.0% in the 30 games he played so far. He played for the Nigerian senior national team three years ago.

Ike Diogu
Ike Diogu
   #2. Second place goes to former international power forward Ike Diogu (204-83, college: Arizona St.). Diogu was the major contributor in Capitanes' victory against the sixth-ranked Mets (0-8) 79-72 in the Puerto Rican BSN last Friday. He recorded a double-double by scoring 21 points and getting 15 rebounds. Capitanes de Arecibo (4-3) is placed fourth in Top 6 group. There are only three games left until the end of the Second Stage. So now every game is very crucial. Diogu is currently sixth on the league's list of top scorers and also on the list of best rebounders (third place). He has individually a very good season with high stats. Diogu averages: 18.1ppg, 9.9rpg, 1.9apg, 2FGP: 55.1%(97-176) and FT: 74.5%. He has a dual citizenship: Nigerian and American. Despite Diogu played previously for the USA national team, he played also for the Nigerian national team in 2009.

Michael Umeh
Michael Umeh
   #3. The Nigerian player who performed third best last week abroad was an international point guard Michael Umeh (188-84, agency: Two Points, college: UNLV), who plays in the German BBL. Umeh could not help New Yorker Phantoms (17-16) in their last game. Despite his very good performance New Yorker Phantoms lost 76-85 on the road to the second-ranked ratiopharm Ulm. Umeh was the top scorer with 23 points. He also added 5 rebounds in 32 minutes. Umeh has relatively good stats this year: 12.2ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.9apg, 2FGP: 50.9%, 3FGP: 36.6% and FT: 89.1% in the 24 games. He is another player who holds two passports: Nigerian and American. Despite Umeh played previously for the USA national team, he is currently a member of the Nigerian senior national team.

Ndudi Ebi
Ndudi Ebi
   #4. Forward Ndudi Ebi (206-84, agency: Higher Vision Sports) was the main contributor in Jiangsu's victory against the seventh-ranked Hong Kong (2-3) crushing them 102-82 in the Chinese NBL (second division) in Saturday night's game. Ebi was the best player in that game. He recorded a double-double by scoring 36 points and getting 14 rebounds. Ebi also added 5 assists and 5 blocks. Jiangsu Tongxi (4-1) is placed second in the NBL. It was his team's third consecutive victory in a row. But this is still an early stage of the season and everything may happen. Ebi is ranked fifth on the list of the top scorers in the league and also on the list of best blockers (fourth place). This season he has very high stats. Ebi averages: 27.8ppg, 14.2rpg, 2.6apg, 4.2bpg and 3.0spg. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Ebi is currently in the Nigerian national team roster.

Alade Aminu
Alade Aminu
   #5. International power forward Alade Aminu (207-87, college: Georgia Tech) was not able to help Chalon/Saor (23-7) in their game against Cholet (16-14) in the French ProA. He scored 7 points and grabbed 7 rebounds in 16 minutes. Chalon/Saor lost 97-101 on the opponent's court to the lower-ranked (#8) Cholet. Aminu's team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And now that game is quite important. This year Aminu has relatively solid stats: 11.7ppg and 6.8rpg in the 30 games. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Aminu is currently in the Nigerian national team roster.

Kenny Adeleke
Kenny Adeleke
   #6. Center Kenny Adeleke (205-83, college: Hartford), who plays in the Chinese NBL (second division) was not able to secure a victory for Henan Jiyuan (1-4) in their last game on Tuesday. Despite his very good performance Henan Jiyuan was crushed 95-72 by the higher-ranked Heilongjiang (#6). Adeleke recorded a double-double by scoring 30 points and getting 29 rebounds. He also added 2 blocks and 3 steals. But the season is still in it's first stage and everything can happen. Adeleke belongs to league's top scorers (ranked #3) and also on the list of best rebounders (first place). This season he has very high stats. Adeleke averages: 33.4ppg, 21.8rpg and 2.2spg. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Adeleke is also an international player who is currently on the senior Nigerian National Team roster.

Uche Nsonwu-Amadi
Uche Nsonwu-Amadi
   #7. An experienced international power forward Uche Nsonwu-Amadi (208-78, agency: Beo Basket, college: Wyoming), who plays in the French ProA couldn't help Chorale de Roanne (16-14) in their last game. Despite his good performance Chorale de Roanne was edged 69-68 in Villeurbanne by the lower-ranked (#12) ASVEL. Nsonwu-Amadi scored 10 points and grabbed 8 rebounds in 30 minutes. His team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And now that game is extremely important. Nsonwu-Amadi is currently fifth on the list of best rebounders with 7.0rpg. He also averaged so far 11.6ppg in the 30 games. Despite Nsonwu-Amadi played previously for the USA national team, he is currently in the Nigerian national team roster.

Oritseweyinmi Efejuku
Oritseweyinmi Efejuku
   #8. Guard Oritseweyinmi Efejuku (196-86, college: Providence) contributed to Indios' victory against the sixth-ranked Mets (0-8) 100-96 in the Puerto Rican BSN last Monday. Efejuku was the top player that evening. He scored 23 points; quite an impressive performance considering it's only Efejuku's third season in pro basketball. Indios de Mayaguez (6-2) is placed first in Top 6 group. There are only two games left until the end of the Second Stage. Efejuku has reliable stats this season: 12.0ppg, 3.1rpg and 2.3apg. Despite he played previously for the Jamaican national team, Efejuku is currently in the Nigerian national team roster.

Adeola Dagunduro
Adeola Dagunduro
   #9. Former international guard Adeola Dagunduro (196-86, college: Nebraska) contributed to an easy victory against the league outsider VOO Verviers-Pepinster (5-27) crushing them 88-64 in the Belgian Ethias League on Saturday night. He was the top player that evening. Dagunduro scored 19 points, had 5 boards, dished 4 assists and stole 5 balls in 23 minutes; not bad, considering it's only his third season in pro basketball. Stella Artois Leuven Bears (14-18) is placed sixth in the Ethias League. They ended the series of three consecutive loses. Dagunduro's team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. Dagunduro is currently first on the list of most steals with 2.5spg. This year his other stats are: 11.9ppg, 3.6rpg and 2.2apg in the 32 games. Despite Dagunduro played previously for the Jamaican national team, he is currently in the Nigerian national team roster.

Tony Skinn
Tony Skinn
   #10. Guard Tony Skinn (185-83, college: George Mason) couldn't help Ironi Ashkelon (10-15) in their game against Maccabi Rishon (15-10) in the Israeli Premier League. Despite his very good performance in Thursday night's game Skinn was the second best scorer with 17 points. He also added 5 rebounds. Skinn's stats this season are: 10.6ppg, 2.7rpg, 2.9apg and 1.7spg. He has both American and Nigerian nationalities. Despite Skinn played previously for the USA national team, he is also a former international player as three years ago he still played for the Nigerian senior national team.

   #11. Former international forward Abdullahi Kuso (206-84, college: Tallahassee CC) contributed to Zadar's victory against the third-ranked Jolly 66-58 in the Croatian A1 last Saturday. Kuso scored 10 points and grabbed 8 rebounds in 19 minutes. This year Kuso's overall stats are: 5.2ppg and 5.6rpg in the 14 games. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Kuso is currently in the Nigerian national team roster.

   #12. Former international power forward Chinemelu Elonu (206-87, college: Texas A&M) contributed to Pau-Lacq-Orthez's victory against the league outsider Hyeres-Toulon 87-80 in the French ProA on Wednesday night. He recorded a double-double by scoring 13 points and getting 10 rebounds. Elonu is currently first on the league's list of best rebounders. This season he has very good stats: 10.4ppg, 8.3rpg and 1.1bpg. Despite Elonu played previously for the USA national team, he is currently in the Nigerian national team roster.

   #13. International forward Derrick Obasohan (199-81, also represented by Beo Basket, college: Texas Arlington) couldn't help Cocodrilos in their game against Marinos in the Venezuelan LPB, despite his good performance in Tuesday night's game. Obasohan scored 10 points in only 14 minutes. But his team was edged 93-91. This year his total stats are: 8.0ppg and 2.5rpg in the two games. Obasohan also holds two passports: Nigerian and American. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Obasohan is currently in the Nigerian national team roster.

   #14. Former U22 international power forward Chukwudinma Odiakosa (203-85, agency: N.E.T., college: Illinois St.) contributed to a Melilla Baloncesto's victory against the closely-ranked Lleida Basquet 66-57 in the Spanish LEB Gold (second division) last Sunday. He was the top player that evening. Odiakosa recorded 15 points and grabbed 9 rebounds. He averaged so far 10.4ppg, 5.7rpg and 1.2bpg. Despite Odiakosa played previously for the USA national team, he is currently in the Nigerian U22 national team roster.

   #15. Former international swingman Olumuyiwa Famutimi (198-84, college: Arkansas) helped Optimum TED win their game against the closely-ranked Genc Telekom crushing them 81-54 in a derby game in the Turkish TB2L (second division) on Wednesday night. Famutimi was the top player that evening. He scored 17 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in 24 minutes. Famutimi's stats this year are: 10.7ppg, 5.2rpg, 1.1apg and 1.2spg in the 38 games. Despite he played previously for the Canadian national team, Famutimi is currently in the Nigerian national team roster.


*****************************************************
  PANAMA   


Danilo Pinnock's double-double lands him Player of the Week award among Panamanians playing currently abroad - by Eurobasket Center

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

Danilo Pinnock
Danilo Pinnock
   #1. This week's number one is an international guard Danilo Pinnock (196-83, college: G.Washington). He led Capitanes to a victory over the leader Indios (6-2) 75-68 in the Puerto Rican BSN in Tuesday night's game. Pinnock was MVP of the game. He had a double-double by scoring 24 points and getting 10 rebounds in 36 minutes on the court. Capitanes de Arecibo (4-3) is placed fourth in Top 6 group. There are only three games left until the end of the Second Stage. So now every game will be critical. Pinnock belongs to league's best passers (ranked #7) and also on the list of most steals (third place). He has very reliable stats this year: 14.3ppg, 5.9rpg, 4.7apg, 1.6spg, 2FGP: 50.7%, 3FGP: 32.3% and FT: 78.3% in the 37 games he played so far. Pinnock is a naturalized American. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Pinnock is currently a member of the Panamanian senior national team. He used to play for Toros de Chorrillo in Panamanian league.

Gabriel Giron
Gabriel Giron
   #2. Second place goes to an international forward Gabriel Giron (192-88), who plays in the Mexican CIBACOPA. Giron could not help Frayles de Guasave (18-18) in their last game on Tuesday. Despite his very good performance Frayles de Guasave was crushed 108-86 on the road by the second-ranked Ostioneros de Guaymas. Giron was the top scorer with 34 points. He also added 4 rebounds. There are only two games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game is very crucial. Giron has individually a very good season with high stats. He averages: 16.7ppg, 4.2rpg, 2.5apg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 62.9%(166-264), 3FGP: 33.6% and FT: 67.7%. Giron has a dual citizenship: Panamanian and Mexican. Despite he played previously for the Mexican university national team, Giron is currently a member of the Panamanian senior national team.

Jose Lloreda
Jose Lloreda
   #3. The Panamanian player who performed third best last week abroad was an international power forward Jose Lloreda (201-80, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: LSU). He was the main contributor in Atleticos' victory against the fifth-ranked Quebradillas (4-4) 99-89 in the Puerto Rican BSN on Sunday night. Lloreda was the best player in that game. He scored 22 points and added 3 assists in 27 minutes. Atleticos de San German (5-3) is placed second in Top 6 group. There are only two games left until the end of the Second Stage. So now every game will be important. Lloreda is ranked fourth on the list of the best rebounders in the league with 9.5rpg. This year his other stats are: 11.8ppg, 2.1apg, 2FGP: 44.8% and FT: 58.1% in the 17 games. Despite Lloreda played previously for the Mexican national team, he is currently a member of the Panamanian senior national team.

Michael Hicks
Michael Hicks
   #4. An experienced swingman Michael Hicks (194-76, college: Texas A&M-CC), who plays in the Italian Lega2 (second division) was not able to help Sigma Barcellona (16-12) in their last game on Sunday. Despite Hicks' very good performance Sigma Barcellona was defeated 90-85 in Piacenza by the lower-ranked Morpho Basket (#7). He was the second best scorer with 18 points. Hicks also added 8 rebounds. Hicks has relatively good stats this season: 12.6ppg, 4.2rpg, 1.1apg and 1.4spg. Despite he played previously for the Mexican national team, Hicks is currently in the Panamanian national team roster.

Leonardo Pomare
Leonardo Pomare
   #5. International forward Leonardo Pomare (203-86, agency: Top Notch Sports, college: San Diego), who plays in the Japanese BJ League was not able to secure a victory for Hamamatsu Phoenix (37-15) in their last game. Despite his good performance the first-placed Hamamatsu Phoenix lost 80-89 in Niigata to the lower-ranked (#4) Albirex in the Eastern group. Pomare was the second best scorer with 12 points. He also added 8 rebounds and 3 blocks in a mere 19 minutes. This year Pomare's overall stats are: 6.8ppg and 5.6rpg in the 47 games. He is a naturalized American. Despite Pomare played previously for the USA national team, he is currently in the Panamanian national team roster. Pomare used to play for Fieras de Cocle in Panamanian league.

Dionisio Gomez Camargo
Dionisio Gomez Camargo
   #6. Forward Dionisio Gomez Camargo (203-80, college: Arkansas) couldn't help Shiga L-Stars (33-19) in their game against Okinawa GK (39-13) in the Japanese BJ League. He did not beat the league record on Sunday evening. Gomez Camargo scored only 3 points, grabbed 8 boards, handed out 3 passes and blocked 2 shots. Shiga L-Stars (#4) were defeated 74-66 in Okinawa by the leading Okinawa GK in the Western group. It was Shiga L-Stars' third consecutive loss in a row. It's Gomez Camargo's first season with the team. This year he has relatively solid stats: 12.3ppg, 8.3rpg and 1.9apg. Gomez Camargo is an international player who is currently on the senior Panamanian National Team roster.

Other top Panamanian players, who play abroad:

Gary Forbes (201-G/F-85) plays for Toronto Raptors in the NBA
Levour Warren (196-F-81) plays for Cedevita in Croatian A1
Ruben Garces (206-C/F-73) plays for Capitanes in Puerto Rican BSN
Jamaal Levy (206-C-83) plays for Lanus in Argentinian LigaA
Josimar Ayarza (205-F-87) plays for Vaqueros in Puerto Rican BSN
Antonio Garcia (203-F/C-76) plays for Bigua in Uruguayan LUB
Jamahr Warren (194-G/F-79) plays for Bigua in Uruguayan LUB
Ruben Douglas (193-G-79) plays for Usak in Turkish TB2L
Amir Alvarado (198-F-84) plays for Barva in Costa Rican LBS

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


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


Juan Pattillo is Meralco's import - by Eurobasket News

A college teammate of NBA slam-dunking star Blake Griffin is Meralco's import for the PBA Governors Cup which fires off Sunday.

The Bolts settled with Juan Pattillo (198-F-88, college: W.Kentucky) after Devin Green measured above the 6-foot-5 height limit while another top option Tim Pickett got injured in a pickup game.

Patillo, Griffins teammate at University of Oklahoma in the 2008-09 varsity season, was recommended by the US-based import recruiter Bobby Rius.

Patillo is listed at 6-foot-6 but Meralco officials have been assured by their US connections that the measurement is exaggerated.

Green, a former Los Angeles Laker, is listed 6-foot-7. When measured using the PBA system, he turned out to be 6-6.

Patillo, 24, was a first team Junior College All-America pick with the College of Southern Idaho in 2007-08 when he averaged 17.4 points, 6.7 rebounds and 22 minutes to lead the varsity to a 30-2 record.

The following year, he moved to Oklahoma, averaging 5.9 points, 3.4 rebounds and 13.4 minutes.

Taken out by coach Jeff Capel for violating team rules, Patillo sat out the next season then surfaced at Western Kentucky U the same school attended by Japeth Aguilar.

He piled up 13.7 points and 9.1 rebound an outing at Western Kentucky.

The Las Vegas, Nevada native is joining the Bolts fresh from his stint with the Bakersfield Jam in the NBA D-League.

Patillo was to arrive Friday, completing the roster of imports playing in the third conference. (NC)

Courtesy of www.pba.ph


Well-stocked Arsenal makes boosters upbeat - by Eurobasket News

All the pieces have fallen into place, making everybody at Petron Blaze excited for their coming campaign in the PBA Governors Cup that kicks off May 20.

Unlike the last three conferences, the Boosters are now well-stocked due to a key acquisition, a good import and the return of some old reliable players, all combining to make them positive their title-retention campaign in the season-ending tourney will go smoothly.

'Parang ang dali sa mata ng coach hawakan ang team ngayon,' related coach Ato Agustin, who has conducted practices a week before coming here for the 2012 PBA All-Stars Weekend.

'Kung minsan nga, parang hindi na kailangan ang coach dahil iyung mga players ko mismo parang kayang kaya na nila mga plays,' added the man before heading back to Manila.

There is the seeming reprise of last season, when Petron wound up last after the eliminations in the mid-season Commissioner's Cup and then bounced back big-time by beating heavily favored Talk N Text in seven games to cop the Governors Cup title. This year, the Boosters wound up ninth in the Commissioner's Cup.

It is on his team having a full complement of players this time that makes Agustin more than upbeat. 'Last year and even before that kulang-kulang kami ng tao because of injuries. Ngayon buo ang team,' he stated.

The trades that bagged Marcio Lassiter (188-G-87, college: CS Fullerton) from Powerade and former center Dorian Pena (198-C-76, college: Coppin St.) from Barako Bull and the return from injuries of Jay Washington (206-C-81, college: Eckerd), Dondon Hontiveros (188-G-77) and Christopher Lutz (192-G/F-85, college: Marshall) have further bolstered a Petron crew that already has the likes of Arwind Santos, Alex Cabagnot, Joseph Yeo, Denok Miranda and Nonoy Baclao.

Lassiter, Lutz and Hontiveros should be of big help in the wings and so should Washington and that tickles Agustin the most.

'Before parehong kuwatro (power forward) ang laro nila, but now si JayWash ang nasa tres (small forward) at si Arwind ang kuwatro sa opensa at palit-puwesto sila sa depensa,' related Agustin.

'That way, Arwind will be most effective tuloy sa pagbibigay ng weakside help.'

'Kami naman ni JayWash nag-pa-practice na para mag-compliment ang laro namin sa transition at pareho kaming excited,' said Santos, who used to be Washington's main reliever before the latter was sidelined by a serious foot injury he suffered in Petron's very first game in last season's Governors Cup.

Pena has also displayed renewed vigor in his game after being re-acquired from Barako.

'Mas focused siya ngayon at kita iyun sa gana niya sa practice,' said Agustin of the 34-year-old who spent his first 11 seasons in the PBA with the flagship team of the San Miguel Corporation group.

And then there is Eddie Basden.

A 29-year-old former Chicago Bull, Basden was supposed to reinforce Alaska in the same tournament last year but was sent home after failing to make the then maximum height limit of 6-foot-4.

With the ceiling now upped to 6-5, Basden is free to strut the same wares that have taken him to such places as Europe and South America.

'He can play the guard positions and also the forward spots,' related Agustin. 'Pero kahit hindi siya masyadong umi-score p'wede na rin kasi marami na naman kaming shooters.'

Cabagnot said he is also excited about Petron's prospects but pointed out one key factor. 'We definitely need to get our acts together,' said the southpaw playmaker.

'Last conference we relied on our import too much, so we should bear in mind that our import is there to support the locals. Hindi siya dapat gumawa ng lahat. This time we have to do our part,' said Cabagnot. (NC)

Courtesy of www.pba.ph


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


Atleticos and Indios qualify for semifinals: - by Luis Modestti

Atleticos de San German and Indios de Mayaguez qualified for the 2012 BSN semifinals after their results on Friday night.

Atleticos edged Capitanes de Arecibo 76-75 after a three-pointer and two free throws scored by Mike Harris with less than a minute left. Harris finished with 17 points and 13 rebounds. Jesse Pellot also added 17 for the winners.

San German now has a 6-3 record and with this win qualified to their first semifinals since 2004.

Capitanes are 4-4 and have two key games at home to close the round, They first host Guaynabo and then Quebradillas.

In the other game Michael Sweetney (203-F-82, college: Georgetown) scored 32 points and grabbed 17 rebounds to lead Bayamon over Indios de Mayaguez 82-79. Carmelo Lee also added 17 for Vaqueros who are now 5-3 and at least secured a decisive game for the semifinals.

Vaqueros play tomorrow at Quebradillas and then finish the Round Robin stage at Guaynabo.

Despite the loss Indios also secured a semifinal berth with a 6-3 mark. This is their first semifinal since 2009.


*****************************************************
  RUSSIA   

Stats Leaders - Superleague B

Points Per Game
 Nikola LEPOJEVIC
  Ural E.
  (199-F-82)
  Avg: 18.9
 1. Lepojevic, Ural E.18.9 
 2. Gordon, Ural E.15.9 
 3. Kuznetsov, Ruskon.15.0 
 4. Ageev, Ruskon-M.14.8 
 5. Vzdykhalkin, Rjazan14.0 
 6. Lekavicius, Univ.S.13.7 
 7. Sotnikov, TE.13.7 
 8. Pushkin, Sojuz Z.13.1 
 9. Kirjanov, TE.12.4 
 10. Aleksandrov, Univ.12.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Dmitriy PONOSOV
  Sojuz Z.
  (220-C-84)
  Avg: 8
 1. Ponosov, Sojuz Z.8.0 
 2. Ivlev, Rjazan7.4 
 3. Zaykin, TE.7.2 
 4. Petukhov, Spart.7.2 
 5. Nikolaev, Ural E.6.2 
 6. Semerninov, Ruskon.6.2 
 7. Gordon, Ural E.6.1 
 8. Trushkin, Spart.6.0 
 9. Kuznetsov, Ruskon.5.8 
 10. Goritskov, Sever.5.7 
Assists Per Game
 Anton GLAZUNOV
  Ural E.
  (182-G-86)
  Avg: 5.4
 1. Glazunov, Ural E.5.4 
 2. Lekavicius, Univ.S.5.1 
 3. Aleksandrov, Sojuz4.0 
 4. Zibirov, Ataman4.0 
 5. Tokarev, TE.3.8 
 6. Zelenskiy, Univ.Su.3.7 
 7. Bartunov, Rjazan3.7 
 8. Vokhmianine, TEMP-.3.1 
 9. Slepukha, Sojuz Z.3.1 
 10. Chernov, Ruskon-.2.9 
Steals Per Game
 Linas LEKAVICIUS
  Univ.Sur.
  (186-G-84)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Lekavicius, Univ.S.2.3 
 2. Zibirov, Ataman2.1 
 3. Glazunov, Ural E.1.8 
 4. Aleksandrov, Sojuz1.7 
 5. Bartunov, Rjazan1.7 
 6. Semerninov, Ruskon.1.5 
 7. Zelenskiy, Univ.Su.1.5 
 8. Ageev, Ruskon-M.1.4 
 9. Ivlev, Rjazan1.3 
 10. Zakamov, Ruskon-.1.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Dmitriy PONOSOV
  Sojuz Z.
  (220-C-84)
  Avg: 1.6
 1. Ponosov, Sojuz Z.1.6 
 2. Gresev, Ataman1.1 
 3. Tsvetkov, Severst.0.9 
 4. Rindin, Univ.Surgut0.9 
 5. Varlamov, Ural E.0.9 
 6. Goritskov, Sever.0.9 
 7. Petukhov, Spart.0.8 
 8. Trushkin, Spart.0.7 
 9. Sleta, Sojuz Z.0.7 
 10. Ivlev, Rjazan0.7 


CSKA statment regarding to Blatt's rumors - by Anton Zirkov

In a statment that came exclusivly to Eurobasket Russia,a CSKA associate wants to clarify the false rumors regarding to CSKA and David Blatt.
'Last night it came to our information about a false info that came from Israeli Sport website called 'ONE' about us offering Blatt an offer for the 2012/2013 season.
Its the second time that this website is publishing those false rumors,and we want to clarify that no contact with Mr Blatt'


Ural wins Superleague Final opener - by Eurobasket News

3rd place
Severstal - Rjazan 58-66

Severstal trailed by 16 points after 3 quarters before a 22-14 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 58-66 at the end of the game. Rjazan dominated on the defensive end, holding Severstal to just 7 points in third quarter. Worth to mention a great performance of point guard Andrey Mateyunas (180-88) who helped to win the game recording 14 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals. Guard Aleksei Vzdykhalkin (190-85, agency: Interperformances) contributed with 15 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Power forward Sergey Toropov (206-89, agency: RU-Basket Management) answered with 6 points and 8 rebounds and naturalized Uzbekistani guard Ruslan Nazmiev (200-87, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav) added 12 points in the effort for Severstal. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games.
Top scorers:
Rjazan: A.Vzdykhalkin 15+5reb+1ast, A.Mateyunas 14+5reb+4ast, V.Ivlev 12+6reb, A.Kirdyachkin 6+6reb+1ast, N.Stepanenkov 6+5reb, V.Kazakov 5+5reb
Severstal: A.Kuzemkin 13+1reb, R.Nazmiev 12+1reb+3ast, A.Amirkhanov 7+2reb+4ast, S.Zakharov 7+3reb+3ast, A.Goritskov 6+9reb, S.Toropov 6+8reb+2ast
gschID: 176318


FINAL
Ural Ekaterinb. - Univ.Surgut 74-72

Ural Ekaterinburg outrebounded Universitet-Yugra 54-29 including a 37-22 advantage in offensive rebounds. Worth to mention a great performance of American forward Lorenzo Gordon (201-83, college: Oklahoma City, agency: Hart Sports Mngm) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 19 points and 15 rebounds. Serbian forward Nikola Lepojevic (199-82, agency: BeoExcell) contributed with 17 points, 6 rebounds and 7 assists for the winners. Lithuanian guard Linas Lekavicius (186-84, college: American) answered with 16 points and 6 steals and the former international forward Vladimir Dyachok (204-80) added 13 points and 7 rebounds in the effort for Universitet-Yugra. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game.
Top scorers:
Ural Ekaterinb.: L.Gordon 19+15reb+2ast, N.Lepojevic 17+6reb+7ast, A.Glazunov 11+3reb+7ast, D.Nikolaev 10+14reb, V.Ionov 9+13reb+2ast, M.Dybovskiy 7+2reb+1ast
Univ.Surgut: L.Lekavicius 16+3reb+3ast, D.Hloponin 14+1reb, V.Dyachok 13+7reb, G.Zelenskiy 12+2reb+3ast, I.Aleksandrov 7+4reb+3ast, A.Savkov 7+1reb
gschID: 176317



*****************************************************
  SENEGAL   


Bamba Fall wins the title in Estonia - by Eurobasket News

Bamba Fall (216-C-86, college: SMU) wins the title in Estonia as his Kalev/Cramo swept the Final series over Tartu Ulikool. In the last game Cramo celebrated a 72:65 win.
The hosts trailed by 1 point at the halftime before their 42-34 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Kalev/Cramo outrebounded Tartu Ulikool 39-28 including 26 on the defensive glass. It was a great shooting night for Kalev/Cramo especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 56.3 percentage. 25 personal fouls committed by Tartu Ulikool helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Senegalese center Bamba Fall fired a double-double by scoring 18 points, 19 rebounds and 4 blocks for the winners. Belarusian power forward Pavel Ulyanko chipped in 9 points. American forward Bill Amis produced 19 points and the former international center Vallo Allingu added 12 points and 5 rebounds respectively for lost side.
In 2011-2012 he joined BC Kalev/Cramo Tallinn (Estonia-KML, starting five) and in VTB League averaged 6.4ppg, Reb-5 (6.4rpg), Blocks-2 (1.6bpg), FGP: 54.8%, FT: 67.7%. In Baltic League his stats read 8.6ppg, 6.1rpg, Blocks-1 (2.4bpg), FGP: 55.6%, FT: 66.2% and in Estonia he averaged 9.1 points per game.


Orleans signs Ousmane Barro for the Playoffs - by Eurobasket News

Ousmane Barro (207-C/F-84, college: Marquette) is a new member of Orleans. The Senegalese big guy signed a deal for rest of the season and he replaces David Monds (205-F-83, college: Oklahoma St.). Barro arrives to Orelans from Bourg, where he just finished 2011/12 ProB season. He appeared 33 times for the club averaging 14.9 points and 8.5 rebounds. Ousmane Barro spent 2010/11 season with Iranian team Zob Ahan Esfahan. They reached WABA Club Championship Semifinals. In 2009/10, Barro was a member of Hungarian Szolnok and was named Eurobasket.com All-Hungarian League Center of the Year -10. He also has experience from Poland. Barro graduated at Marquette University in 2008.
Orleans will meet Paris-Levallois in ProA Quarterfinals.


*****************************************************
  SERBIA   

Standings - A Liga

A League Stage Two Standings
SuperLiga
 1. Partizan 11-2 
 2. Radnicki K. 10-3 
 3. Crvena Zvezda 7-5 
 4. Vojvodina 6-7 
 5. Radnicki Basket 5-7 
 6. BKK Radnicki 4-8 
 7. Mega Vizura 4-8 
 8. Hemofarm 3-10 
Places 9-18
 1. OKK Beograd 15-11 
 2. Tamis 15-11 
 3. Sloga 13-13 
 4. Borac 12-14 
 5. Smederevo 12-212 
 6. Sloboda Uzice 11-15 
 7. Metalac 10-16 
 8. Napredak 8-18 
 9. Zeleznicar 6-20 
 10. Proleter Naftagas 2-24 
Stage One Standings

Second Stage: Round 12

May. 15: Hemofarm - BKK Radnicki 95-94
May. 16: Vojvodina - Mega Vizura 83-85
May. 15: Crvena Zvezda - Partizan 78-83 OT
May. 15: Radnicki K. - Radnicki Basket 77-69

Second Stage: Round 13

May. 19: Radnicki K. - Hemofarm
May. 19: Radnicki Basket - Crvena Zvezda
May. 19: Partizan - Vojvodina
May. 19: Mega Vizura - BKK Radnicki


Standings - 1 Srpska Liga

1Srpska Standings
Group Central
 1. Grocka 0-0 
 2. Koledz Basket 0-0 
 3. Kolubara 0-0 
 4. Kotez 0-0 
 5. Partizan II 0-0 
 6. Pro Sport 0-0 
 7. Sava 0-0 
 8. Surcin 0-0 
 9. Torlak 0-0 
 10. Vizura 0-0 
 11. Zemun Lasta 0-0 
 12. Zitko Basket 0-0 
 13. Zvezdara 0-0 
Group East
 1. Bujanovac 0-0 
 2. Dimitrovgrad 0-0 
 3. Eko Basket 0-0 
 4. Jablanica M. 0-0 
 5. Jug Vranje 0-0 
 6. Junior Nis 0-0 
 7. KK Nis 0-0 
 8. Knjazevac 0-0 
 9. Kursumlija 0-0 
 10. Mladost Za. 0-0 
 11. Morava 0-0 
 12. Pirot 0-0 
 13. Prokuplje 0-0 
 14. Zdravlje 0-0 
Group North
 1. Dunav S.Ban. 0-0 
 2. Kikinda 0-0 
 3. Meridiana NS 0-0 
 4. Mladost BJ 0-0 
 5. Nova Pazova 0-0 
 6. Odzaci 0-0 
 7. Radnicki Kovin 0-0 
 8. Srbobran 0-0 
 9. Srem 0-0 
 10. Stara Pazova 0-0 
 11. Topola 0-0 
 12. Veternik 0-0 
 13. Vojvodina 0-0 
 14. Vrbas 0-0 
Group West
 1. Klik Arilje 0-0 
 2. Masinac 0-0 
 3. Mionica 0-0 
 4. Novi Pazar 0-0 
 5. Plana 0-0 
 6. Polet Ratina 0-0 
 7. Pozarevac 0-0 
 8. Priboj 0-0 
 9. Prva Petolet. 0-0 
 10. Sloga Pozega 0-0 
 11. Svilajnac 0-0 
 12. Varvarin 0-0 
 13. Zeleznicar C. 0-0 
 14. Zlatar NV 0-0 


Vojvodina in trouble - by Ivan Milenkovic

After losing three games in a row, Vojvodina is in danger of missing playoffs. Team from Novi Sad had good chance to finish third in Superleague and play in Adriatic league next season, but now even fourth position is far from certain for them.

Vojvodina defeated Partizan and Crvena zvezda Beograd at home in 6th and 9th round respectively, lost unluckily to Radnicki Kragujevac at home in first round, but had many unexpected defeats which costed them a lot.

In Round 7, Vojvodina lost heavily at Radnicki FMP. However, key defeats were against BKK Radnicki and Mega Vizura in last 7 days. Despite being favourites to win both games -especially against Mega at home on Wednesday- Sinisa Matic and his players disappointed.

Finally, Partizan thrashed them 91-54 (23-16, 18-11, 27-14, 23-13) on Friday. Serbian champions led from start to finish and never gave visitors hope to surprise. Vojvodina's players looked demoralised and tired after two bad games. Now, they will have to recover quickly and win against Radnicki FMP at home in last round to qualify for playoffs.

Top three positions are secured by Partizan MTS, Radnicki Kragujevac and Crvena zvezda Beograd Diva - they will play in Adriatic league next season. Black and whites will have home court advantage throughout playoffs, while Radnicki will have that advantage against Crvena zvezda in semifinals after Friday's win against Hemofarm. It was 92-89 (22-22, 25-24, 24-21, 21-22) for hosts.


*****************************************************
  SOUTH AMERICAN CLUB CHAMPIONSHIPS  


Cocodrilos back to zero - by Wolfgang Lucena

Marinos de Anzoategui defeated Cocodrilos de Caracas in their home 68-73 thus eliminating them from the 2012 Profesional Basketball season of Venezuela. Jorge Arrieta Marinos Head coach 2012 LPB coach of the year dedicated this win to former NBA Oscar Torres (195-F/G-76) who couldn't play in today's game due to injury. Gregory Vargas (182-PG-86) made 16 points becoming the best man of Marinos de Anzotegui.
It is going to take a long time to rebuild Cocodrilos after this devastating 2012 season but the good thing is that the arrogant basketball team from Caracas has almost a year to start over in order to look for 2013 final series classification.
Now Marinos should go back to Anzoategui to wait for their 2012 LPB final series' rival that could be either Guaiqueries de Margarita or Trotamundos de Carabobo.


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

Stats Leaders - ACB

Points Per Game
 Andy PANKO
  Lagun A.
  (204-F-77)
  Avg: 18.7
 1. Panko, Lagun A.18.7 
 2. Doellman, Assignia16.8 
 3. Teletovic, Caja L.16.4 
 4. Wright, CAI Z.14.5 
 5. Penney, Fuenlabra.14.4 
 6. Davis, Cajasol14.3 
 7. Navarro, FCB Regal13.7 
 8. De Colo, Valencia13.4 
 9. Hettsheimer, CAI Z.13.3 
 10. Caner-Medley, Val.13.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 James AUGUSTINE
  UCAM M.
  (208-F-84)
  Avg: 8.3
 1. Augustine, UCAM M.8.3 
 2. Ivanov, Lucentum7.8 
 3. Borchardt, B.de R.7.7 
 4. Freeland, Unicaja7.5 
 5. Davis, Cajasol7.4 
 6. Williams, FIATC J.7.1 
 7. Caner-Medley, Vale.6.9 
 8. Teletovic, Caja L.6.9 
 9. Gabriel, Asefa E.6.5 
 10. Hettsheimer, CAI6.4 
Assists Per Game
 Javier RODRIGUEZ
  Assignia.
  (189-G-79)
  Avg: 6.5
 1. Rodriguez, Assigni.6.5 
 2. Salgado, Lagun A.4.3 
 3. Llull, Real Madrid4.2 
 4. Granger, Asefa E.3.8 
 5. Rodriguez, Bluse.3.8 
 6. Rodriguez, Real M.3.8 
 7. Dumas, B.de R.3.7 
 8. Prigioni, Caja L.3.5 
 9. Llompart, Lucentum3.5 
 10. Uriz, B.de Rueda3.4 
Steals Per Game
 Pablo PRIGIONI
  Caja L.
  (191-G-77)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Prigioni, Caja L.1.9 
 2. De Colo, Valencia1.6 
 3. Doellman, Assignia1.5 
 4. Vidal, Lagun A.1.5 
 5. Uriz, B.de Rueda V.1.4 
 6. Lofton, Asefa E.1.4 
 7. Hanga, Assignia M.1.4 
 8. Udoka, UCAM M.1.4 
 9. Williams, FIATC J.1.3 
 10. Eidson, FCB Regal1.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Stephane LASME
  Blusens M.
  (203-F-82)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Lasme, Blusens M.1.9 
 2. Fischer, Gescrap BB1.9 
 3. Sene, Fuenlabrada1.7 
 4. Begic, Real Madrid1.5 
 5. Toure, B.de R.1.4 
 6. Ndong, FCB Regal1.1 
 7. Vazquez, FCB Regal1.0 
 8. Barnes, Lucentum1.0 
 9. Augustine, UCAM M.0.9 
 10. Asselin, Assignia0.9 


Stats Leaders - LEB Gold

Points Per Game
 Troy DEVRIES
  Melilla
  (193-G-82)
  Avg: 19.1
 1. DeVries, Melilla19.1 
 2. Witt, Knet Clavijo18.2 
 3. Feldeine, Breogan17.7 
 4. Quezada, Leon16.5 
 5. Franklin, Huesca16.2 
 6. Bivia, Mallorca16.0 
 7. Fernandez, Granada15.7 
 8. Moss, Palencia15.4 
 9. Leonavicius, Hues.14.7 
 10. Antelo, Caceres14.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Olaseni LAWAL
  Knet Clavijo
  (208-F/C-86)
  Avg: 10.6
 1. Lawal, Knet Clavijo10.6 
 2. Diouf, Palencia8.8 
 3. Donaldson, Canarias8.8 
 4. Kuzmin, Clinicas.8.6 
 5. Starosta, Navarra8.1 
 6. Sikma, La Palma7.7 
 7. Mortellaro, Leon7.7 
 8. Antelo, Caceres7.7 
 9. Williams, Caceres7.7 
 10. Fernandez, Grana.7.6 
Assists Per Game
 Oscar ALVARADO
  La Palma
  (184-PG-91)
  Avg: 6.1
 1. Alvarado, La Palma6.1 
 2. Bivia, Mallorca5.1 
 3. Witt, Knet Clavijo4.5 
 4. Norris, Lleida4.3 
 5. Lopez, Burgos4.0 
 6. Perez, Menorca3.8 
 7. Bernabe, Leon3.7 
 8. Sabat, Canarias3.6 
 9. Quezada, Leon3.4 
 10. DeVries, Melilla3.4 
Steals Per Game
 Alexander FRANKLIN
  Huesca
  (196-PF-88)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Franklin, Huesca2.5 
 2. Toledo, Burgos2.1 
 3. Xavier, Palencia2.0 
 4. Bernabe, Leon2.0 
 5. Norris, Lleida1.9 
 6. Abrines, Clinic.1.8 
 7. Green, Mallorca1.8 
 8. Alonso, Mallorca1.8 
 9. Rost, Canarias1.7 
 10. Guerra, Granada1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Ognen KUZMIN
  Clinicas.
  (215-C-90)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Kuzmin, Clinicas.2.1 
 2. Lawal, Knet Clavijo1.7 
 3. Diouf, Palencia1.6 
 4. Olmos, Caceres1.3 
 5. Green, Mallorca1.3 
 6. Odiakosa, Melilla1.2 
 7. Coleman, Girona1.1 
 8. Samb, Granada1.1 
 9. Donaldson, Canarias0.9 
 10. Antelo, Caceres0.9 


Stats Leaders-LEB Silver

Points Per Game
 Alfredo OTT
  Lan M.
  (193-G-83)
  Avg: 17.9
 1. Ott, Lan M.17.9 
 2. Monroe, Tenerife16.5 
 3. Atoyebi, Lan M.16.4 
 4. Salson, Las Rozas16.3 
 5. Todorovic, Prat J.16.2 
 6. Eriksson, Barca R.15.8 
 7. Ortiz, Aurtenec.14.3 
 8. Balmon, Las Rozas14.0 
 9. Oha, Gandia Basqu.13.1 
 10. Elias, Tenerife13.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Marko TODOROVIC
  Prat J.
  (203-F-92)
  Avg: 8.7
 1. Todorovic, Prat J.8.7 
 2. Elias, Tenerife8.3 
 3. Balmon, Las Rozas8.3 
 4. Atoyebi, Lan M.8.1 
 5. Thompson, Aurtene.8.0 
 6. Monroe, Tenerife7.7 
 7. Ausina, Aurtenec.7.3 
 8. Ortega, Oviedo CB7.2 
 9. Adams, Coruna6.9 
 10. Miller, Gandia B.6.9 
Assists Per Game
 Federico BAVOSI
  Andorra
  (184-PG-81)
  Avg: 5.8
 1. Bavosi, Andorra5.8 
 2. Ibargutxi, Lan M.4.4 
 3. Guigou, Tenerife4.1 
 4. Alvarado, Gandia B.3.5 
 5. Ugrinoski, Las R.3.2 
 6. Vilanova, Prat J.3.2 
 7. Llorente, Avila3.2 
 8. Bassas, Prat J.3.1 
 9. Faner, Plasencia3.1 
 10. Ortiz, Aurtenec.2.8 
Steals Per Game
 Alfredo OTT
  Lan M.
  (193-G-83)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Ott, Lan M.2.9 
 2. Faner, Plasencia2.9 
 3. Hill, Ourense1.9 
 4. Guigou, Tenerife1.7 
 5. Bavosi, Andorra1.7 
 6. Barcelo, Aurtenec.1.6 
 7. Arcelus, Aurtenec.1.5 
 8. Ros, Plasencia1.5 
 9. Creus, Barca R.1.5 
 10. Elias, Tenerife1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Papa MBAYE
  Barca R.
  (209-C-90)
  Avg: 1.6
 1. Mbaye, Barca R.1.6 
 2. Marti, Prat J.1.5 
 3. Todorovic, Prat J.1.4 
 4. Thompson, Aurtene.1.2 
 5. Flis, Andorra1.0 
 6. Serrano, Lan M.1.0 
 7. Iglesias, Plasencia0.9 
 8. Miller, Gandia B.0.9 
 9. Elias, Tenerife0.8 
 10. Olaizola, Lan M.0.8 


Milan Macvan attracts interest in ACB teams - by Antonio Carlo

Serbian center Milan Macvan (206-C-89, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) could be heading to play in Spain as three top ACB teams have shown interest to sign the Maccabi Tel Aviv center.
Some Spanish websites have reported that Unicaja, Caja Laboral and Barcelona are keen to secure the services of Macvan who has been loaned to Partizan Belgrade for one year after he couldnt make any impact in Israel with Maccabi Tel Aviv.
His return to his country has helped Milan Macvan to return to his best form. His impressive performances with Partizan averaging 15 points and 8,5 rebounds per game in the Euroleague surely will help him to move on to a bigger club for next season.
Macvan has a clause of 250,000 euros in his contract with Maccabi Tel Aviv which allows him to go if any interested club wants to add him to their roster.


Canarias Iberostar fans rallying for financial support for their team to play in ACB again - by Antonio Carlo

Newly promoted ACB Endesa League team Iberostar Canarias has launched a campaign to seek financial support among fans and businessman in the island of Tenerife.
A few days ago EUROBASKET.COM reported that the Canarian basketball club has already secured 60% of 4,5 million euro to pay the entry fee in order to enter into the Spanish elite basketball league. This has been achieved thanks to an agreement with the municipalities of Santa Cruz de Tenerife and La Laguna.
Iberostar Canarias is still waiting to have a meeting with the president of the Canarian Regional government Paulino Rivero to see if they can be subsidised.
President Felix Hernandez has admitted his club is trying to collect money to comply with the financial demands of the hierarchy of the ACB before the deadline of June 14th.
The campaign has started to have some impact thanks to the social networks Twitter and Facebook where supporters have been interacting and rallying the message that their club needs help to reach their dream to play in ACB again. So far the messages have been spreading all over hoping that Iberostar Canarias will get the financial back up needed.
The island of Tenerife is craving to enjoy top basketball again. Iberostar Canarias played for the last time in Spains top division 21 years ago after a long exile between LEB and EBA divisions.
The club has opened two accounts in two different banks in Tenerife. The accounts details are: Cajasiete Bank: 3076 0010 07 2231465820 and CajaCanarias Bank: 2065 0106 17 1400171315.


LEB Gold Semifinals: Visitors grab both wins in Game One - by Eurobasket News

Melilla - Caceres 63-79 (0-1)
It looked good early as Melilla Baloncesto took an 7-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Caceres 2016 had a 25-16 second period charge getting the lead and Melilla Baloncesto was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 63-79. Caceres 2016 dominated on the defensive end, holding Melilla Baloncesto to just 6 points in third quarter. Caceres 2016 dominated down low during the game scoring 68 of its points in the paint compared to Melilla Baloncesto's 40. They outrebounded Melilla Baloncesto 39-28 including a 33-18 advantage in defensive rebounds. Belizean-American power forward Leon Williams (203-86, college: Ohio) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 23 points and 10 rebounds (on 10-of-11 shooting from the field) for the winners and swingman Xavier Forcada (195-88) chipped in 14 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists. At the losing side guard Marcos Suka-Umu (193-85) responded with 18 points and 6 rebounds and guard Jose Salvador Arco (194-85) scored 12 points and 4 assists. Melilla Baloncesto's coach rotated eleven players seeing no chance for a win.
Top scorers:
Melilla: M.Suka-Umu 18+6reb+2ast, J.Salvador Arco 12+1reb+4ast, K.Wachsmann 8+8reb, H.Manzano 7+2reb+2ast, C.Odiakosa 7+5reb, J.Antonio Marco 5+1reb+4ast
Caceres: L.Williams 23+10reb, D.Rodriguez 14+1reb+3ast, X.Forcada 14+9reb+5ast, S.Olmos 8+3reb, F.Sanchez 8+8reb+1ast, J.Sedlak 7+6reb+1ast
gschID: 176677


Navarra - Menorca 68-75 (0-1)
The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Grupo Iruna Navarra won third quarter 21-15. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. It was a great shooting night for Menorca Basquet especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 66.7 percentage. 24 personal fouls committed by Grupo Iruna Navarra helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a great performance of center Oliver Arteaga (211-83) who helped to win the game recording 14 points and 9 rebounds. Swingman David Navarro (192-83) contributed with 11 points for the winners. Menorca Basquet's coach Josep Berrocal used an eleven-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Czech center Ondrej Starosta (215-79) answered with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 10 rebounds and guard Mikel Uriz (180-89) added 16 points and 5 assists in the effort for Grupo Iruna Navarra.
Top scorers:
Navarra: O.Starosta 17+10reb, M.Uriz 16+2reb+5ast, I.Narros 11+4reb, K.Langford 6+4reb+1ast, I.Sanz 5+1reb+2ast, J.Garcia 5+2reb
Menorca: O.Arteaga 14+9reb+2ast, D.Navarro 11+3reb+3ast, M.Blanch 10+1reb, A.Matali 7+3reb+1ast, U.Otegui 7+4reb+4ast, J.Jimenez 6+4ast
gschID: 176678



Liga Endesa Quarterfinals: Barca, Caja Laboral and Valencia take 1-0 lead - by Eurobasket News

Regal Barca, Caja Laboral and Valencia celebrated in Game One of the Liga Endesa Quarterfinals (best-of-three). Real Madrid will host Cajasol tonight.

Caja Laboral - Gescrap BB 77-73 (1-0)
The hosts were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. 26 personal fouls committed by Gescrap BB helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Bosnian forward Mirza Teletovic (206-85, agency: Beo Basket) stepped up and scored 19 points and 5 rebounds for the winners and international swingman Fernando San Emeterio (198-84) chipped in 13 points and 5 rebounds. At the losing side American guard Aaron Jackson (193-86, college: Duquesne) responded with 18 points and 5 rebounds and the former international forward Alex Mumbru (202-79) scored 15 points and 6 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game.
Top scorers:
Caja Laboral: M.Teletovic 19+5reb, F.San Emeterio 13+5reb+1ast, M.Lampe 10+2reb+1ast, A.Nocioni 10+1reb+1ast, T.Heurtel 8+2reb+2ast, P.Prigioni 7+3reb+1ast
Gescrap BB: A.Jackson 18+5reb+3ast, A.Mumbru 15+6reb+3ast, K.Vasiliadis 15+2reb+2ast, D.Fischer 9+4reb, M.Banic 7+4reb, J.Blums 5
gschID: 176243


FCB Regal - Lucentum 73-43 (1-0)
The game without a history. Regal FC Barcelona led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Meridiano Alicante to just 6 points in first quarter. Regal FC Barcelona players were unselfish on offense dishing 24 assists comparing to just 9 passes made by Meridiano Alicante's players. Brazilian-Italian point guard Marcelinho Huertas (191-83, agency: Edge Sports) nailed 14 points and 6 assists for the winning side and American swingman Chuck Eidson (202-80, college: S.Carolina, agency: Court Side) accounted for 12 points and 5 assists. Regal FC Barcelona's coach Xavier Pascual felt very confident that he used 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Bulgarian forward Kaloyan Ivanov (205-86) came up with 7 points, 13 rebounds and 4 assists and Brazilian point guard Rafael Freire (188-92) added 4 points and 6 rebounds respectively for Meridiano Alicante in the defeat.
Top scorers:
FCB Regal: M.Huertas 14+1reb+6ast, C.Eidson 12+3reb+5ast, F.Vazquez 11+3reb+1ast, J.Ingles 8+2ast, P.Mickeal 7+2reb+1ast, J.Wallace 6+5reb+2ast
Lucentum: M.Stojic 9+3reb, M.Kone 8+3reb+1ast, K.Ivanov 7+13reb+4ast, L.Barnes 6+4reb, I.Ordin 4+1reb+1ast, R.Freire 4+6reb+3ast
gschID: 176240


Valencia - Lagun Aro GBC 82-60 (1-0)
Valencia Basket led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Valencia Basket outrebounded Lagun Aro GBC 37-24 including 26 on the defensive glass. French guard Nando De Colo (202-87) nailed 26 points and 4 assists for the winning side and American forward Niklas Caner-Medley (203-83, college: Maryland, agency: Beo Basket) accounted for 18 points and 12 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field). The former international swingman Sergi Vidal (198-81) came up with 14 points and American forward Andy Panko (204-77, college: Lebanon Valley, agency: Beo Basket) added 12 points respectively for Lagun Aro GBC 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 game.
Top scorers:
Valencia: N.De Colo 26+2reb+4ast, N.Caner-Medley 18+12reb+1ast, V.Faverani 12+8reb, V.Claver 8+4reb+3ast, B.Newley 5+5reb+2ast, S.Markovic 5+4ast
Lagun Aro GBC: S.Vidal 14+4reb+2ast, A.Panko 12+2reb, J.Baron 7+3reb+1ast, D.Doblas 6+5reb, J.Salgado 5+1reb+4ast, R.Neto 4+1reb


Real Madrid too strong for Cajasol in Game One, 82-68 - by Eurobasket News

Quarterfinals, Game 1: Real Madrid - Cajasol 82-68 (1-0)

First game of Liga Endesa Quarterfinals between Real Madrid and Cajasol just ended. The home squad registered 82-68 victory for 1-0 lead in the series. Cajasol was ahead by 2 points at the halftime before a 44-28 second half run of Real Madrid, which allowed them to celebrate comfortable win. Cajasol was plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. Kyle Singler (203-F-88, college: Duke) scored 14 points, Sergio Llull (190-PG-87) nailed 13 points and 5 assists for the winning side and Felipe Reyes (203-F/C-80) accounted for 13 points and 6 rebounds. Four Real Madrid players scored in double figures. Guard Txemi Urtasun (193-G-84, agency: Interperformances) came up with 19 points and 4 assists and American center Paul Davis (211-C-84, college: Michigan St.) added 7 points and 6 rebounds for Cajasol in the defeat. Both coaches tested many bench players tonight.
The Quarterfinals format is best-of-three, so Real is one win away from the Semis. The second game is scheduled for Sunday in Seville. If necessary, Game Three will be played on Tuesday in Madrid. The winner of this series will meet Caja Laboral or Bilbao at the next stage. The score is currently 1-0 for Caja Laboral, who celebrated 77-73 home win on Thursday.

Real Madrid: K.Singler 14+4reb, S.Llull 13+4reb+5ast, F.Reyes 13+6reb, S.Rodriguez 11+2reb+2ast, N.Velickovic 10+5reb+1ast, M.Begic 9+7reb
Cajasol: T.Urtasun 19+1reb+4ast, T.Satoransky 8+1ast, H.Jasen 8+3reb+2ast, J.Triguero 7+1reb+1ast, P.Davis 7+6reb, C.English 6+1reb+3ast


LEB Silver Finals: Ourense beats Prat Juventud 76-65 in Game One - by Eurobasket News

LEB Silver Finals, Game 1: Ourense - Prat Juventud 76-65 (1-0, best-of-five)

The game was mostly controlled by Ourense. Prat Juventud managed to win second period 22-19. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Prat Juventud to just 6 points in first quarter. Ourense forced 23 Prat Juventud turnovers. Worth to mention a great performance of American-Dominican guard Ruben Guillandeaux (198-G-88, college: La Salle) who helped to win the game recording 16 points and 4 assists. French-Ivorian forward Francis Koffi (202-81, college: Fresno St.) contributed with 12 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Montenegrin forward Marko Todorovic (203-92) answered with 19 points and 8 rebounds and forward Joan Tomas (201-92) added 10 points and 7 rebounds in the effort for Prat Juventud. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Game Two is scheduled for Sunday. Ourense will be the host again.
Top scorers:
Ourense: R.Guillandeaux 16+2reb+4ast, K.Hill 14+3reb+1ast, F.Koffi 12+7reb, M.Webster 9+3reb, A.Miguel 7+2reb, A.Jaume Vicens 6+4reb
Prat Juventud: M.Todorovic 19+8reb, A.Ventura 11+5reb, J.Tomas 10+7reb+1ast, A.Barrera 8+2reb, R.Vilanova 6+1ast, G.Marti 5+4reb


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  SWITZERLAND   


Lugano Tigers defend LNA title - by Eurobasket News

Lugano Tigers - Geneve Lions 92:81

Lugano Tigers remain LNA title holder. They overcame Geneve Lions in the fifth decisive game of the championship series tonight to clinch the third LNA title in a row. Mohammed Abukar (208-F-85, agency: Two Points, college: San Diego St.) stepped up with 31 points to pace the winners.
Lugano controlled the pace right from the start. The Tigers built a 23:18 lead ten minutes into the encounter. They maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. Lugano established a 47:37 halftime advantage. The Lions slowed the hosts down in the third term. The visitors managed to get within 9 points at the final break. But Lugano fired 27 points in the fourth stanza and rallied to a well-deserved win at the end. Zarko Rakocevic (204-F-84) finished with 14 points, while Rod Brown (186-PG-78, agency: Two Points, college: W.Michigan) added 13 in the victory. Christopher Dunn (189-G-83, agency: Court Side, college: W.Virginia St.) answered with 18 points for Geneve Lions. Erroyl Bing (198-F/C-82, college: E.Carolina) had 16 points in the loss.

Lugano Tigers: Mohammed Abukar 31, Zarko Rakocevic 14, Rod Brown 13
Geneve Lions: Christopher Dunn 18, Erroyl Bing 16


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  TAIWAN   


Jeremy Lin named to USA Select team - by Eurobasket News

New York Knicks guard Jeremy Lin (6'3''-PG-88, college: Harvard) is one of 13 players who have been named to the USA Select Team -- the team that will scrimmage with the United States' Olympic basketball team -- U.S. media reported Monday.

One report speculated that Lin's inclusion was helped by the presence of Mike D'Antoni, Lin's former coach with the Knicks, on the U.S. Olympic basketball team's coaching staff.
Lin had said previously that it would be 'cool' if he were named to the team.

Others named to the team include the No. 1 pick in the 2011 NBA draft Kyrie Irving and Ryan Anderson of the Orlando Magic, the 2011-2012 winner of the NBA's Most Improved Player award.

Also named to the Select team were John Wall, DeMar DeRozan, Paul George, Gordon Hayward, Kawhi Leonard, DeJuan Blair, Taj Gibson, DeMarcus Cousins, Derrick Favors and Klay Thompson.

It is widely believed that the players named to the Select team have the inside track on representing the United States at the World Championships in 2014 and at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio De Janeiro.

The NBA has said that this year's U.S. Olympic team will hold its first practice on July 6 in Las Vegas.

The candidates for the U.S. Olympic team's roster have largely been decided. Jerry Colangelo, executive director of the NBA, said the 12-player roster will be announced July 7.

Courtesy of http://focustaiwan.tw


*****************************************************
  TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO   


NFM takes back-to-back wins - by Don Farrell

National Flour Mills won its second consecutive match in the North Zone Basketball Commission (NZBC), with a 67-57 victory over Diego Martin All Stars, at the Jean Pierre Complex, Wrightson Road, on Tuesday. The win came only 48 hours after an entertaining and convincing 82-71 victory for NFM over Caledonia Clippers. NFMs forward Kerry McMillan continued his fine form when he bagged 22 points, while Kwesi Julien assisted with nine points.


Gershwin Duncan and Roger Lewis scored 17 and 12 points, respectively for Diego Martin. On Sunday, NFM, temporarily without the guidance of coach Jamal Duke, who was banned for several matches due to his challenging of several of the referees decisions in the recent match against Defence Force, fared very well again Clippers. McMillian, took 17 points, followed by Ashton Demurrells 14 points, for the comfortable win. There was one Second Division match on Tuesday when Veterans sealed a simple 63-53 win over Straker Nets. Albert Sprott and Kerry Westfield combined for 25 points, for the winning team.

Results


First Division
NFM 67 (Kerry McMillan 22 pts, Kwesi Julien 9pts) v Diego Martin All Stars 57 (Gershwin Duncan 17 pts, Roger Lewis 12 pts)
Second Division

Veterans 63 (Albert Sprott 13, Kerry Westfield 12) vs Straker Nets 53 (Ofomin Pryce 14 pts, Hashim Arcia 14 pts) halftime 34 vs 29


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  TUNISIA   


Assistant basketball coach trains incomplete team - by Eurobasket News

The assistant coach of the Tunisian national basketball team has started training with six of the preselected players for the London 2012 Olympics. Coach K. Ouerchefani trains only these few because they have ended their season with their clubs.

They train once in two days while waiting for their teammates who will join them in Tunis by month end after which they will all go for a training camp in Turkey June 5-16.
Courtesy of: StarAfrica.com







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  TURKEY   

Stats Leaders - D1

Points Per Game
 Jonathan GIBSON
  Trabzonspor
  (182-PG-87)
  Avg: 19.9
 1. Gibson, Trabzonspor19.9 
 2. Chatman, Karsiyaka18.3 
 3. Reynolds, Antalya18.3 
 4. Brown, Trabzonspor18.1 
 5. Scales, Mersin17.4 
 6. Toolson, Aliaga17.3 
 7. Fisher, Antalya17.2 
 8. Sneed, Mersin16.9 
 9. Grundy, Mersin16.9 
 10. Washington, Turk16.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Elton BROWN
  Trabzonspor
  (206-C-83)
  Avg: 12.2
 1. Brown, Trabzonspor12.2 
 2. Stimac, Olin Edirne9.9 
 3. Sanders, Hacett.8.9 
 4. Mensah-Bonsu, Bes.8.0 
 5. McGhee, Bandirma.7.8 
 6. Wesson, Erdemir7.6 
 7. Buckman, Tofas7.6 
 8. Sonkol, Aliaga7.3 
 9. Yucel, Turk T.7.0 
 10. Dagli, Besiktas6.9 
Assists Per Game
 Mire CHATMAN
  Karsiyaka
  (187-PG-78)
  Avg: 6.4
 1. Chatman, Karsiyaka6.4 
 2. Ermis, Banvit BK6.0 
 3. Tunceri, Anadolu5.3 
 4. Ratkovica, Aliaga5.3 
 5. Senturk, Erdemir4.9 
 6. Gordon, Galatasaray4.6 
 7. Reynolds, Antalya4.4 
 8. Fisher, Antalya4.4 
 9. Washington, Turk T.4.4 
 10. Arroyo, Besiktas4.3 
Steals Per Game
 Russell ROBINSON
  Trabzons.
  (185-G-86)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Robinson, Trabzons.2.1 
 2. Grier, Mersin2.1 
 3. Bryan-A., Hacett.2.0 
 4. Chatman, Karsiyaka1.9 
 5. Grundy, Mersin1.7 
 6. Gordon, Galatasaray1.7 
 7. Kinsey, Anadolu1.4 
 8. Scales, Mersin1.4 
 9. Hawkins, Besiktas1.4 
 10. Guler, Turk T.1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Matthew BRYAN-AMANING
  Hacett.
  (205-F-88)
  Avg: 1.3
 1. Bryan-A., Hacett.1.3 
 2. Davis, Banvit BK1.2 
 3. Robinson, Erdemir1.1 
 4. McGhee, Bandirma.1.0 
 5. Bayav, Karsiyaka0.9 
 6. Aldemir, Galatasar.0.9 
 7. Gist, Fener.Ulker0.9 
 8. Turkyilmaz, Banvit0.9 
 9. Karaman, Karsiyaka0.8 
 10. Qvale, Aliaga0.8 


Anadolu Efes celebrates 81-75 road win against Banvit (1-1) - by Eurobasket News

TBL Semifinals, Game 2: Banvit BK - Anadolu Efes 75-81 (1-1)

Second game of TBL Semifinals between Banvit and Anadolu Efes just ended. Visitors celebrated 75-81 victory tying the score to 1-1 in the series. The format is best-of-five and Anadolu Efes will host next two meetings. They are scheduled for May 21 and 23.
Banvit BK was tied at the half but could not keep up in last two quarters eventually losing the game. Serbian power forward Dusko Savanovic (204-F/C-83, agency: Beo Basket) orchestrated the victory by scoring 15 points and 5 rebounds. The former international guard Kerem Tunceri (190-G-79) contributed with 15 points for the winners. Serkan Erdogan (190-G-78, agency: 1x1 Sports) replied with 20 points and 4 assists and Baris Ermis (194-G-85) added 12 points and 5 assists in the effort for Banvit BK. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game.
Tonight Banvit lost the home court advantage in this series. As mentioned above, Anadolu Efes will be the host in the next two games and will try to book a spot for the Finals in front of their fans. In order to do that, Efes will need to win both times.

Banvit BK: S.Erdogan 20+2reb+4ast, B.Ermis 12+2reb+5ast, L.Williams 10+4reb, C.Davis 9+3reb, K.Lucas 7+3reb+1ast, C.Nalga 6+5reb
Anadolu Efes: K.Tunceri 15+1reb+3ast, D.Savanovic 15+5reb+1ast, S.Guler 11, E.Batista 9+3reb+3ast, E.Kurtoglu 8+1ast, C.Akyol 8+2reb+1ast


Besiktas ties the score against Galatasaray - by Eurobasket News

TBL Semifinals, Game 2: Galatasaray - Besiktas 72-81 (1-1, best-of-five)

The guests trailed by 1 point at the halftime before their 42-32 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Besiktas made 20-of-23 free throws (87.0 percent) during the game. 25 personal fouls committed by Galatasaray helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was American guard David Hawkins (194-82, college: Temple) who scored 24 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Serbian power forward Zoran Erceg (210-85) chipped in 21 points. Four Besiktas players scored in double figures. Serbian forward Boris Savovic (206-87, agency: Beo Basket) produced 17 points and 7 rebounds and American guard Jamon Lukas Gordon (191-84, college: Virginia Tech) added 12 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists respectively for the hosts. Galatasaray's coach Oktay Mahmudi rotated twelve players in this game, but that didn't help. Game Three is scheduled for Sunday, when Besiktas will be the host.

Galatasaray: B.Savovic 17+7reb+2ast, H.Koeksal 13+2reb, J.Lukas Gordon 12+7reb+4ast, L.Andric 8+2reb, E.Arslan 6+1reb, T.Acik 6+5reb+2ast
Besiktas: D.Hawkins 24+6reb+4ast, Z.Erceg 21+4reb, S.Cetin 13+1reb+4ast, C.Arroyo 13+1reb+6ast, E.Dagli 6+13reb+1ast, M.Yagmur 2+1reb
gschID: 176473



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  U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS   


Tim Duncan remains a leader for Spurs - by David Edole

By Matt Stevens

May 17, 2012, 11:10 p.m.
SAN ANTONIO He might be getting older, but Spurs power forward Tim Duncan (211-F/C-76, college: Wake Forest) does not appear to have lost a step.

For the second straight game, Duncan schooled the younger Clippers defenders in footwork and fundamentals, and helped lead his Spurs to a 2-0 series advantage with a win in San Antonio on Thursday night.

The two-time NBA most valuable player scored 18 points on nine-for-14 shooting to help San Antonio cruise to a 105-88 victory. The win takes the 36-year-old yet another step closer to his fifth NBA title.

'He is getting older, just like you are, and all of us, but Tim Duncan is still the backbone of the program,' said Spurs Coach Gregg Popovich. 'He's the guy we build around. He sets the tone for us.Tony [Parker] and Manu [Ginobili] know that full well.'

Duncan led the team in scoring in Game 1 against the Clippers with 26 points, so in Game 2 the Spurs went back to their reliable big man, feeding him for 10 points in the first seven minutes of the game.

During that stretch Duncan would pull up for short and mid-range jump shots to score and also post up to utilize his impeccable footwork. On one play, he slid up and under Clippers center DeAndre Jordan for an easy-looking layup.

Clippers guard Randy Foye summed it up this way: 'He shows the ball one way and makes a move the other way to the rim and lays it in.

Foye said Duncan looked healthy and was 'moving really well' after eight days off between series. But Ginobili dismissed the time off as a factor. He instead simply called Duncan 'amazing.'

'We are talking about [the time off] now because it went our way,' Ginobili said. 'If they had won one, we would have been talking about we were rusty.'

After the game, there was much talk about age in the Spurs locker room, as reporters and teammates joked about Parker turning 30 on Thursday.

Despite being six years older than Parker, Duncan said he felt 'great so far,' but not so great that he is looking forward to this weekend's two games in two days.

'Looking forward to the next one,' Duncan said. 'Actually not looking forward to the back to back, but it is what it is.'


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

Stats Leaders - Men

Points Per Game
 Randy CULPEPPER
  Fe.
  (182-G-89)
  Avg: 22.2
 1. Culpepper, Fe.22.2 
 2. Solomon, Cherkasy22.1 
 3. Burtt, Dnipro18.9 
 4. Deane, BC Odessa18.4 
 5. Vukosavljevi., Hal.17.9 
 6. King, BC Odessa17.3 
 7. Mitchell, Khimik16.9 
 8. Guinn, Fe.16.9 
 9. Green, Mykolaiv16.9 
 10. Harris, Halychyna16.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Vladan VUKOSAVLJEVIC
  Halych.
  (206-F/C-84)
  Avg: 10.9
 1. Vukosavljevi., Hal.10.9 
 2. King, BC Odessa10.2 
 3. Dunigan, DniproAzot8.9 
 4. Davis, Fe.8.4 
 5. Odufuwa, Halychyna8.1 
 6. Goodridge, BC Kyiv8.0 
 7. Drozdov, Azovmash7.8 
 8. Davis, Kryvbasb.7.6 
 9. Todic, Halychyna7.4 
 10. Pupovic, Cherkasy7.3 
Assists Per Game
 Darrel MITCHELL
  Khimik
  (181-PG-84)
  Avg: 5.9
 1. Mitchell, Khimik5.9 
 2. Deane, BC Odessa5.8 
 3. Zimmerman, BC Kyiv5.6 
 4. Rowe, BC Odessa5.2 
 5. Burtt, Dnipro5.1 
 6. Florence, Kryvbasb.5.1 
 7. Randle, Azovmash5.0 
 8. Ewing, Azovmash4.9 
 9. Walsh, Azovmash4.8 
 10. Pringle, DniproAz.4.6 
Steals Per Game
 Jeremy CHAPPELL
  Fe.
  (191-G-87)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Chappell, Fe.1.9 
 2. House, Dnipro1.9 
 3. Florence, Kryvbasb.1.9 
 4. Minard, Azovmash1.7 
 5. Solomon, Cherkasy1.7 
 6. Mitchell, Khimik1.7 
 7. Tiggs, Hoverla1.6 
 8. Ewing, Azovmash1.6 
 9. Culpepper, Fe.1.6 
 10. Sirsnins, DniproA.1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Vernon GOODRIDGE
  BC Kyiv
  (206-F-84)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Goodridge, BC Kyiv2.6 
 2. King, BC Odessa2.4 
 3. McClintock, Mykola.1.8 
 4. Dunigan, DniproAzot1.7 
 5. Kravtsov, BC Do.1.6 
 6. Davis, Kryvbasb.1.5 
 7. Rizvic, Azovmash1.5 
 8. Korniyenko, Dnipro1.5 
 9. Hunter, Mykolaiv1.4 
 10. Hunter, Fe.1.3 


Superleague Round 1 of Finals. BC Donetsk earn first win - by Eurobasket News

FINAL
BC Donetsk - Azovmash 83-66

BC Donetsk kept their opponents at bay throughout the major part of the game and sealed the winning outcome in the title series opener. The game without a history. BC Donetsk led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. BC Donetsk had a 29-17 advantage in offensive rebounds. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 25 assists. Worth to mention a great performance of FYR Macedonian guard Vojdan Stojanovski (193-G-87) who helped to win the game recording 13 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. Serbian point guard Vule Avdalovic (189-81, agency: Beo Basket) contributed with 10 points, 5 rebounds and 8 assists for the winners. Five BC Donetsk players scored in double figures. Liberian-American forward Othello Hunter (203-86, college: Ohio St.) answered with 13 points and 7 rebounds and the former international guard Artur Drozdov (199-80) added 9 points and 8 rebounds in the effort for Azovmash. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest.
Top scorers:
BC Donetsk: V.Kravtsov 16+4reb+1ast, M.Lee 15+5reb+3ast, V.Stojanovski 13+7reb+4ast, R.Curry 13+5reb+1ast, V.Avdalovic 10+5reb+8ast, D.Gliebov 7+2reb+1ast
Azovmash: O.Hunter 13+7reb, O.Pecherov 13+3reb+1ast, A.Drozdov 9+8reb+1ast, D.Ewing 7+1reb+4ast, R.Rancik 7+7reb+1ast, J.Randle 7+2reb+5ast
gschID: 176527
3rd Place
Budivelnyk - Ferro-ZNTU 111-127

Ferro-ZNTU exploded with impressive 127 points to take down Budivelnyk in the consolation final series opener. The game was mostly controlled by Ferro-ZNTU. Budivelnyk managed to win fourth quarter 23-22. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Ferro-ZNTU shot 62.3 percent from the field and made 22-of-26 free shots (84.6 percent) during the game. They shot the lights out from three sinking 19 long-distance shots on high 63.3 percentage. 26 personal fouls committed by Budivelnyk helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American guard Randy Culpepper (182-89, college: UTEP) fired 45 points (!!!) and 4 assists for the winners. His fellow American import R.T. Guinn (208-81, college: Baylor) chipped in 22 points and 7 rebounds. Montenegrin-Bosnian swingman Suad Sehovic (197-87) produced 25 points and 6 rebounds and Dominican guard Luis Flores (188-81, college: Manhattan) added 19 points (made all of his seven free throws) respectively for lost side. Four Ferro-ZNTU and five Budivelnyk players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games.
Top scorers:
Ferro-ZNTU: R.Culpepper 45+2reb+4ast, R.Guinn 22+7reb+1ast, J.Chappell 18+6reb+4ast, V.Hunter 13+4reb+1ast, H.Kandrusevich 9+1reb+1ast, A.Lebedintsev 8+1reb+1ast
Budivelnyk: S.Sehovic 25+6reb, L.Flores 19+4reb+3ast, J.McClinton 18+3reb+2ast, A.Agafonov 15+2reb+1ast, Z.Morley 13+5reb+6ast, A.Malysh 9+5reb
gschID: 176632



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

Stats Leaders - LPB

Points Per Game
 Donald SIMS
  Gaiteros
  (185-PG-87)
  Avg: 24.1
 1. Sims, Gaiteros24.1 
 2. Holland, Toros23.1 
 3. Pena, Toros21.4 
 4. Rodgers, Marinos19.9 
 5. Adams, Guaiqueries18.9 
 6. Hickerson, Bucan.18.6 
 7. Stoll, Gigantes17.6 
 8. Edwin, Gaiteros17.5 
 9. Romero, Trotamun.17.4 
 10. Millsap, Guaros16.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Shaun PRUITT
  Trotamun.
  (208-C-85)
  Avg: 9.4
 1. Pruitt, Trotamun.9.4 
 2. Braggs, Gaiteros9.3 
 3. Fuller, Panteras9.2 
 4. Urbina, Toros8.5 
 5. Allen, Marinos7.7 
 6. Gransberry, Cocod.7.7 
 7. Sucre, Marinos7.4 
 8. Jackson, Guaiquer.7.3 
 9. Warner, Bucaneros7.1 
 10. Lugo, Guaiqueries7.0 
Assists Per Game
 Paul STOLL
  Gigantes
  (178-PG-85)
  Avg: 6.8
 1. Stoll, Gigantes6.8 
 2. Vargas, Marinos5.7 
 3. Cubillan, Trotamun.5.3 
 4. Guillent, Bucaneros4.6 
 5. Guillent, Guaros4.3 
 6. Elliott, Cocodrilos4.2 
 7. Pena, Toros4.1 
 8. Braggs, Gaiteros4.1 
 9. Sims, Gaiteros3.5 
 10. Centeno, Cocodril.3.5 
Steals Per Game
 Paul STOLL
  Gigantes
  (178-PG-85)
  Avg: 4.3
 1. Stoll, Gigantes4.3 
 2. Guillent, Bucaneros2.8 
 3. Vargas, Marinos2.8 
 4. Pena, Toros2.8 
 5. Adams, Guaiqueries2.5 
 6. Elliott, Cocodrilos2.5 
 7. Sims, Gaiteros2.5 
 8. Horton, Panteras2.3 
 9. Cubillan, Trotamun.1.9 
 10. Edwin, Gaiteros1.9 
Blocks Per Game
 Rammel ALLEN
  Marinos
  (210-C-79)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Allen, Marinos2.3 
 2. Moss, Marinos2.0 
 3. Lugo, Guaiqueries1.7 
 4. Osorio, Panteras1.5 
 5. Hardin, Marinos1.4 
 6. Graterol, Cocodril.1.4 
 7. Warner, Bucaneros1.1 
 8. Romero, Trotamun.1.0 
 9. Pruitt, Trotamun.1.0 
 10. Warren, Guaiquer.0.8 


Cocodrilos back to zero - by Wolfgang Lucena

Marinos de Anzoategui defeated Cocodrilos de Caracas in their home 68-73 thus eliminating them from the 2012 Profesional Basketball season of Venezuela. Jorge Arrieta Marinos Head coach 2012 LPB coach of the year dedicated this win to former NBA Oscar Torres (195-F/G-76) who couldn't play in today's game due to injury. Gregory Vargas (182-PG-86) made 16 points becoming the best man of Marinos de Anzoategui.
It is going to take a long time to rebuild Cocodrilos after this devastating 2012 season but the good thing is that the arrogant basketball team from Caracas has almost a year to start over in order to look for 2013 final series classification.
Now Marinos should go back to Anzoategui to wait for their 2012 LPB final series' rival that could be either Guaiqueries de Margarita or Trotamundos de Carabobo.



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

Women News


Five Minutes with Jayco Opal Suzy Batkovic - by Eurobasket News

Having missed the 2010 World Championship through injury, Jayco Australian Opal Suzy Batkovic-Brown (193-C-80) is raring to go in the side's quest for London success. We caught up with her. Suzy Batkovic-Brown. Is it good to be back in camp with the Jayco Opals girls?

Definitely. Good to be back in camp with the girls and good to be back in the green and gold.


What about having Lauren back in the program. She hasnt been in the program since 2010, you werent in the program in 2010, so how longs it been since youve played with your old mate?

The last Olympics. Yeah, I got injured [in 2010], I had a battle with my knee, and so 2008 wouldve been the last time.


And you picked up where you left off no doubt?

Always. Shes easy to play with because shes a phenomenal athlete. Its always good playing with Loz.


This is obviously a competitive period with the team. Is there a bit of tension among the players that are on the fringe and fighting for spots?

I dont think so. With the young ones, its obviously their first opportunity to break into their first Olympics and after this weeks selection camp unfortunately three of them have to go home. I feel sorry for the coaches, having to pick a team because at the moment its tough; its like a coin toss. Everyones playing well, everyones doing well. Im just glad Im not a coach right now.


Theres been a lot of individual stuff, skills stuff and two-on-two, but no full court five-on-five work as yet? Is that because the coaches are looking for something specific before they make their selections?

Yeah. Theres been a little bit on skills, break-downs and learning what the Jayco Opals do on defence, but tomorrow is a scrimmage day and on different days were doing different things, for the coaches to have a look at different things and different structures, what people do, how they defend an on-ball, those little break downs. But I think tomorrow will be a lot more five-on-five. I just think the coaches are trying to give everyone a good opportunity, to show what theyve got with their skills and things like that.


Theres the potential for this group to be one of the biggest Jayco Opals teams to take to the floor. Will that change the way the Opals traditionally play?

Every team, every Olympics and every World Championship, its always going to be different with different people retiring or someone taking someone else's spot. I think the teams evolving, so its never the same. Youve got to go with the game, because the game gets upped every season it feels like. Its going to be competitive. Were big, but there are a lot of big countries out there. By the time we get there, we probably wont look that big.


Are you going to take a few steps out come London time and launch a few threes up?

Thats a silly question: of course Im going to launch some threes up. I always launch threes. I always have. I just love my threes. Who said big girls cant shoot threes? We prove them wrong, every time.


The Farewell Series: Basketballs Road to London will see our Jayco Australian Opals and Australian play in front of their adoring fans before setting off on their journey to London.

Courtesy of WNBL


Redbacks look to extend run (Round 10 women's preview) - by Eurobasket News

The Perth Redbacks will look to extend their four game winning streak this weekend in round ten of the women's State Basketball League when they take on the Rockingham Flames on Saturday night.

The Redbacks could be a big threat to the top of the ladder Wanneroo Wolves, they are currently sitting on eight wins just trailing behind the Wolves nine wins.

The third placed South West Slammers face a tough weekend, hosting the fourth placed Lakeside Lightning on Friday night and hitting the road to tackle the fifth placed Willetton Tigers on Saturday.

The Slammers have succumbed to both of their defeats away from home and will be looking to put the Lightning away early on Friday night to give themselves the best chance against the Tigers on the road.

Cockburn Cougars face another challenge this weekend, playing the Perry Lakes Hawks in a Hawks home game on Friday night, the Hawks having secured three of their four wins at home.

The Cougars will then host the in-form Kalamunda Eastern Suns on Saturday night in another tough fixture.

The Suns will be optimistic having gained serious momentum on the back of a five game winning streak while the Cougars are still looking for their second win of the season.

On Saturday night the Stirling Senators will host the Hawks for Perry Lakes second game of the weekend, both teams hungry for wins on the back of losses.

Both teams have struggled in recent weeks, the Hawks having lost three of the last five games, faring just slightly better than the Senators who have dropped four from five games.

In a bottom four clash the East Perth Eagles will tackle the Mandurah Magic on Saturday night with East Perth, last years grand finalists, needing to find some form heading into the second half of the season.

While the Magic are yet to win on the road, they will fancy their chances against the struggling Eagles.

Article by Hannah Coleman
Courtesy of: SBL


Kelly Ellis Returns to Senators Line-up - by Eurobasket News

Stirling Senators welcome back super-mum Kelly Ellis (G-80) to SBL against Perry Lakes this weekend, five weeks after giving birth to her second child, Ruby Ellis.

Ellis was a key and experienced member of last years Senators squad and gave birth to her and husband Perth Redbacks Head coach Glenn Ellis, second child in late March, but always had the intention of returning in 2012.

Senators Head Coach Vlad Alava was pleased to welcome the 300 plus games veteran back and praised the guard for her work and commitment to the team before and after the birth of baby Ruby.

'During last year, Kelly was in a real purple patch of form mid-way through the season and I jokingly said to Glenn Ellis that I was definitely having Kelly back and she better not fall pregnant. Next thing you know they pass on the great news but I maintained early that I still wanted Kelly back in the fold for 2012. I dont think they thought I was serious!

Kelly has been nothing short of fantastic with her commitment levels to getting back, as has Glenn and Kels parents who do the babysitting most of the time on game days. Make no mistake, Kelly has earned this return, this quickly. We mapped out a plan for her comeback and she is coming along very nicely! She is still going to get better but I have seen enough in what she has done to know that she can return to the fold this weekend. Her experience and poise will be a big factor for this young team so I look forward to her really contributing as the season unfolds.

When asked to comment on her selection and return to the SBL team this weekend, Ellis left no one unawares of what motivated her to comeback.

People may query why I am playing on? The answer is simple, the Stirling team! The girls are just an awesome bunch and together with the coaches guidance are continually improving on the court. They are young and have shown what they are capable of. I am very excited and proud to be returning alongside my team mates.

I had a year off basketball when I had Lachy and this time I have returned 5 weeks after having Ruby! Physically I am feeling better this time around and am excited to be joining the team on game night! Go Stirling!!

Article by Stirling Senators
Courtesy of: SBL


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


Edremit adds Marina Kress - by Eurobasket News

According to Turkish media (Pota6), Edremit Belediyesi signed another player for the next season. Reportedly, the TKBL newcomer penned a deal with Marina Kress (193-C-80). The Belarusian center arrives to the club from Botasspor Adana, where she spent last season. For 21 TKBL games Kress registered 6.1 ppg and 4.8 rpg. She also added 5 ppg and 6.9 rpg for 12 games in EuroCup. Before Botas, Marina Kress played one season for Sony Athinaikos. They won the Greek championship title and Cup together. Athinaikos also reached EuroCup Semifinals. Kress had 7.6 ppg and 4.8 rpg in this competition. In the past, Kress played for Tarsus, Galatasaray, Extrugasa, Dynamo-Energia Novosybirsk and few other teams. Last summer at the EuroBasket in Poland Kress played 6 games for the Belarusian NT. She had 2.8 ppg and 3.3 rpg. Kress is active NT member since 2003.


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


China beats Canada 67-51 in basketball friendly - by Eurobasket News

The Chinese national women's basketball team picked up their first win of its North American tour on Thursday, beating Canada 67-51 in a pre-Olympic friendly.

Playing at the Olympic Oval in the Vancouver suburb city of Richmond, guard Li ShanShan (177-G-87) paced China to the win with 15 points, while veteran forward Ma Zengyu (183-F-84) added 14 to be named player of the game for China.

Wei Wei (207-C-89), the team's 2.08-meter center, hit for 12 points and was dominant defensively with three key blocks in the second half to thwart the host Canadians.

The game was the second of three matches being played over consecutive nights with each team now holding a win apiece.

The last game goes Friday in Abbotsford, a city about one hour east of Vancouver. After winning the first game 78-66, Canada controlled the early play Thursday in leading 19-14 after the first quarter.

China then found its groove with some good defensive playing and strong offence from Wei Wei who scored 10 first-half points to lead the team to a 32-29 lead at the break.

Li proved the force for China in the second half, hitting for three three-pointers, while center Chen Xiaoli added eight points for a 53-43 lead after three quarters in front of a crowd of 650 people, many of them new immigrants from China.

Guard Teresa Gabriele (165-G-79) led the Canadians with 13 points to be named her team's player of the match, with Alisha Tatham (180-G-86, college: Massachusetts) and Natalie Achonwa (190-F-92) each adding 10 points.

As China have already qualified for this summer's London Olympics, coach Sun Fengwu continued to play his younger players, as star veterans Chen Nan and Miao Lijie watched from the sidelines.

'After the game yesterday, we know them better and understand them better, so we restricted their performances well. They only got 51 points. Besides, we played our level in attacks. These are the reasons for our victory,' Sun said.

He added with so many young players in the line-up, the team was getting faster but still had many improvements to make. 'Firstly, we have to insist on our styles and features. Secondly, compared to the Western players we are weak in physical contact and scrambling for the ball. So we have to make improvements. This is what we should focus on when playing against the American and Canadian teams.'

With top forward Kim Smith out of the line-up with an injured finger, Canadian coach Allison McNeill said her team came out well initially but a lack of energy was quickly apparent.
She credited China for its high intensity and good defensive play. 'We didn't get the ball inside as much (as Wednesday night), but I also think we just didn't get some shots that I think we should get if we run our offence, and we didn't really run our offence. But again, you have to credit them for taking us out of our offence. Defence all has something to do with it.'

McNeill added she was looking forward to Friday night's final game as her team needed top competition going into the final Olympic qualification tournament. Canada, ranked 11th in the world, is one of 12 teams heading to Turkey next month looking to secure one of the five final Olympic berths.

'Well I think we'll execute better (tomorrow), but I think they'll come hard and they'll play well. I thought that they really got the ball to Wei Wei tonight and she did just a phenomenal job. She's just very difficult to guard.'

The 32-year-old Gabriele, the only player from the country's Sydney 2000 squad, the last time Canada qualified for the Olympics, said the team knew China would come out strong after losing the first four games of its North American tour.

'We're going to expect an even tougher game tomorrow. We need to work on a few things in practice and hopefully we'll be better tomorrow,' she said. 'We didn't execute offensively as well as we did the first night and Kim (Smith) was out tonight, so she's one of our threats from the outside hitting the three. So hopefully she'll be back tomorrow and then, yeah it' ll be a better game tomorrow.'

Courtesy of www.chinadaily.com.cn


*****************************************************
  CHINA   


China beats Canada 67-51 in basketball friendly - by Eurobasket News

The Chinese national women's basketball team picked up their first win of its North American tour on Thursday, beating Canada 67-51 in a pre-Olympic friendly.

Playing at the Olympic Oval in the Vancouver suburb city of Richmond, guard Li ShanShan (177-G-87) paced China to the win with 15 points, while veteran forward Ma Zengyu (183-F-84) added 14 to be named player of the game for China.

Wei Wei (207-C-89), the team's 2.08-meter center, hit for 12 points and was dominant defensively with three key blocks in the second half to thwart the host Canadians.

The game was the second of three matches being played over consecutive nights with each team now holding a win apiece.

The last game goes Friday in Abbotsford, a city about one hour east of Vancouver. After winning the first game 78-66, Canada controlled the early play Thursday in leading 19-14 after the first quarter.

China then found its groove with some good defensive playing and strong offence from Wei Wei who scored 10 first-half points to lead the team to a 32-29 lead at the break.

Li proved the force for China in the second half, hitting for three three-pointers, while center Chen Xiaoli added eight points for a 53-43 lead after three quarters in front of a crowd of 650 people, many of them new immigrants from China.

Guard Teresa Gabriele (165-G-79) led the Canadians with 13 points to be named her team's player of the match, with Alisha Tatham (180-G-86, college: Massachusetts) and Natalie Achonwa (190-F-92) each adding 10 points.

As China have already qualified for this summer's London Olympics, coach Sun Fengwu continued to play his younger players, as star veterans Chen Nan and Miao Lijie watched from the sidelines.

'After the game yesterday, we know them better and understand them better, so we restricted their performances well. They only got 51 points. Besides, we played our level in attacks. These are the reasons for our victory,' Sun said.

He added with so many young players in the line-up, the team was getting faster but still had many improvements to make. 'Firstly, we have to insist on our styles and features. Secondly, compared to the Western players we are weak in physical contact and scrambling for the ball. So we have to make improvements. This is what we should focus on when playing against the American and Canadian teams.'

With top forward Kim Smith out of the line-up with an injured finger, Canadian coach Allison McNeill said her team came out well initially but a lack of energy was quickly apparent.
She credited China for its high intensity and good defensive play. 'We didn't get the ball inside as much (as Wednesday night), but I also think we just didn't get some shots that I think we should get if we run our offence, and we didn't really run our offence. But again, you have to credit them for taking us out of our offence. Defence all has something to do with it.'

McNeill added she was looking forward to Friday night's final game as her team needed top competition going into the final Olympic qualification tournament. Canada, ranked 11th in the world, is one of 12 teams heading to Turkey next month looking to secure one of the five final Olympic berths.

'Well I think we'll execute better (tomorrow), but I think they'll come hard and they'll play well. I thought that they really got the ball to Wei Wei tonight and she did just a phenomenal job. She's just very difficult to guard.'

The 32-year-old Gabriele, the only player from the country's Sydney 2000 squad, the last time Canada qualified for the Olympics, said the team knew China would come out strong after losing the first four games of its North American tour.

'We're going to expect an even tougher game tomorrow. We need to work on a few things in practice and hopefully we'll be better tomorrow,' she said. 'We didn't execute offensively as well as we did the first night and Kim (Smith) was out tonight, so she's one of our threats from the outside hitting the three. So hopefully she'll be back tomorrow and then, yeah it' ll be a better game tomorrow.'

Courtesy of www.chinadaily.com.cn


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


Wisla Can-Pack inks deal with Daria Mieloszynska - by Eurobasket News

Wisla Can-Pack announced signing of another player for the next season. The Polish champion brought in 28-year-old forward Daria Mieloszynska (188-F-83, agency: Data Plus Group, college: Texas). She arrives to the club from Caja Rural Valbusenda. Mieloszynska joined Caja Rural in January averaging 12.9 points, 6 rebounds and 1.3 assists in 12 Spanish LFB games. She started the season with French Tarbes registering 6.1 ppg and 2.1 rpg for 8 games in domestic championship. The forward had lower numbers for six Euroleague games. Season 2010/11 Daria Mieloszynska spent with Lotos Gdynia. Before that, she played for CCC Polkowice and Duda Tecza Leszno. Mieloszynska also played for the Polish National Team from 2008 to 2010. She had 5.3 ppg and 3 rpg for 6 games at 2009 EuroBasket in Latvia.


*****************************************************
  FIJI   


Kelera Mataika joins Newcastle Hunters - by Eurobasket News

Former Fijian international player Kelera Mataika (180-F-82) has debuted at the Waratah League in Australia. She has recently joined the Newcastle Hunters team. Kelera Mataika appeared on court last weekend. The Hunters surrendered against the Bankstown Bruins. The Fiji player scored 6 points and grabbed 3 rebounds in just over 12 minutes of action time. Kelera Mataika has been studying at the University of Newcastle. She made a contact with former Hunters coach Jon Hoyle looking for some playing time. So later on Kelera Mataika made it to the Hunters roster. She has played for Fiji National Team since 2002. The forward participated at 2007 Pacific Games. Kelera Mataika then played against Spain and Brazil when Fiji took part at Olympic Qualifying Tournament in 2008.


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


Basket Landes signs Tamara Abalde - by Eurobasket News

Tamara Abalde (188-G-89, agency: Josep and Nicolas) is a new member of Basket Landes. The Spanish guard signed a one-year deal with the club. Abalde spent last season with Pays d'Aix Basket 13 Provence. She had 10.3 ppg, 4.3 rpg and 1.1 apg for the club in 26 LFB games. It was her first season in France. Before that, Abalde split one year between Rivas Ecopolis and Navarra. She played for Rivas also from 2008 to 2010. In the past, Tamara Abalde spent one year with Lamar University (NCAA1) and few years with Celta Vigo. The player helped U20 Spanish NT to win the Silver at U20 EuroBasket 2009 in Poland. She shined with 12.4 ppg, 5.3 rpg and 1.6 apg for 10 games at this event. Abalde also won few more medals with Spanish youth National Teams.


Second stage of NT preparations - by Eurobasket News

First stage of the French National Team preparations is over and the next phase is set to start on Thursday. The team will move from Bourges to Lyon and ten players from the first phase will continue in the next one. Five players of BC Bourges and 3 players of the foreign teams will join the preparations at this stage. Below is the latest list of candidates for the NT:

Marielle Amant (191-F/C-89)
Clemence Beikes (180-G-83, agency: Josep and Nicolas)
Ana-Maria Cata-Chitiga (195-C-89)
Jennifer Digbeu (190-F/C-87)
Celine Dumerc (169-G-82)
Elodie Godin (190-C-85)
Emilie Gomis (180-G/F-83)
Sandrine Gruda (193-C-87)
Marion Laborde (178-G/F-86)
Anael Lardy (170-G-87, agency: Josep and Nicolas)
Florence Lepron (182-F-85)
Nwal-Endene Miyem (188-PF-88)
Emmeline Ndongue (191-C-83)
Edwige Lawson-Wade (166-PG-79)
Pauline Lo (193-F/C-87)
Gaelle Skrela (177-G-83, agency: Josep and Nicolas)
Diandra Tchatchouang (190-F-91, college: Maryland)
Isabelle Yacoubou-Dehoui (190-C-86)

France will play three friendly games at the beginning of June. Their rival will be Polish National Team and games will be played in Lyon. Later, France will participate at international tournament where their rivals will be Czech Republic, Canada and Croatia. France prepares for the Olympic Qualifying Tournament, which start on June 25. They are placed to Group D together with Canada and Mali. On June 26, France will meet Canada and a day later they will play against Mali.


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


Eurobasket.com All-German DBBL Awards 2011-12 - by Eurobasket

Eurobasket.com All-German DBBL 1st Team 2012
#s#
Tamara Tatham
Tatham
Natasha Harris
Harris
Amanda Davidson
Davidson
Shenita Landry
Landry
Katharina Fikiel
Fikiel
#e#5

Player of the Year: Tamara Tatham (187-F-85) of Halle
Guard of the Year: Natasha Harris (177-G-86) of Wolfenbuettel
Forward of the Year: Tamara Tatham (187-F-85) of Halle
Center of the Year: Katharina Fikiel (193-F/C-87) of Wolfenbuettel
Bosman Player of the Year: Mirna Paunovic (185-F/C-76) of Freiburg
Import Player of the Year: Tamara Tatham (187-F-85) of Halle
Domestic Player of the Year: Katharina Fikiel (193-F/C-87) of Wolfenbuettel
Defensive Player of the Year: Tamara Tatham (187-F-85) of Halle
Coach of the Year: Vlastibor Klimes of Wolfenbuettel

1st Team
G: Natasha Harris (177-86) of Wolfenbuettel
G: Amanda Davidson (170-83) of Marburg
F: Shenita Landry (188) of Marburg
F: Tamara Tatham (187-85) of Halle
F/C: Katharina Fikiel (193-87) of Wolfenbuettel

2nd Team
G: Krystal Vaughn (185-86) of Wasserburg
G: Yvonne Turner (174-87) of Freiburg
F: Emma Cannon (188) of OKE Panthers
F: Judie Lomax (180-88) of Freiburg
C: Amber Sprague (196-86) of Heli Girls

Honorable Mention
Amanda Rego (170-G-86) of Heli Girls
Tenaya Watson (175-G-89) of Wolfenbuettel
Svenja Greunke (188-F-89) of Rhein MB
Lisa Koop (197-C-85) of Marburg
Danielle Clark (185-F-85) of BG 89 Avides
Melissa Jeltema (175-G-88) of Chemnitz

All-Domestic Players Team
G: Pia Mankertz (170-90) of BG 89 Avides
G/F: Sarah Austmann (179-85) of Oberhausen
F: Svenja Greunke (188-89) of Rhein MB
F/C: Katharina Fikiel (193-87) of Wolfenbuettel
C: Lisa Koop (197-85) of Marburg

All-Imports Team
G: Natasha Harris (177-86) of Wolfenbuettel
G: Amanda Davidson (170-83) of Marburg
F: Shenita Landry (188) of Marburg
F: Tamara Tatham (187-85) of Halle
F: Emma Cannon (188) of OKE Panthers


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


A2: Vigarano and Bologna to meet in Group North Finals - by Eurobasket News

Group North
Muggia - Vigarano 50-52
Vigarano won the series with perfect 2-0. It means that Vigarano advanced to Group North Finals, where they will meet Bologna. First game is scheduled for May 27. The format is best-of-three. Forward Eleonora Laffi (188-F-83) scored 13 points and 8 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and Polish forward Magdalena Losi (173-80, agency: Promotex) chipped in 15 points during the contest. Four Vigarano players scored in double figures. Guard Annalisa Borroni (183-83) responded with 8 points and 7 rebounds and guard Jessica Cergol (180-85) scored 12 points and 5 rebounds.
Top scorers:
Vigarano: M.Losi 15+4reb+1ast, E.Laffi 13+8reb, G.Vian 10+7reb, M.Zanardi 10+2reb+3ast, S.Farris 4+3reb, L.Venzo 0+2reb
Muggia: J.Cergol 12+5reb, A.Gabrovsek 8+6reb+1ast, A.Borroni 8+7reb+2ast, V.Primossi 7+2reb+1ast, A.Palliotto 6+3reb, L.Cumbat 4+3reb
gschID: 176613


San Martino - Bologna 55-60
Bologna won the series with 2-0 and will fight against Vigarano for Group North title. San Martino was ahead by 5 points after three quarters before a 22-12 charge of Meccanica NB, which allowed them to win the game. They made 16-of-19 charity shots (84.2 percent) during the game. Meccanica NB forced 20 San Martino turnovers. Guard Federica Nannucci (170-91) orchestrated the victory by scoring 19 points. Forward Eleonora Costi (180-83) contributed with 10 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Meccanica NB's coach Luigi Piatti allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. Guard Maria Pegoraro (174-89) replied with 8 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists and forward Valentina Ferri (182-85) added 10 points and 7 rebounds in the effort for San Martino.
Top scorers:
Bologna: F.Nannucci 19+2reb, I.Cigliani 14, E.Costi 10+6reb+1ast, V.Zanoli 6+1ast, G.Leva 6+4reb, A.Denti 4+6reb+2ast
San Martino: V.Stoppa 11+1reb+2ast, V.Ferri 10+7reb+1ast, A.Cattapan 9+3reb+1ast, M.Pegoraro 8+5reb+5ast, F.Dotto 6+3reb+7ast, M.Sandri 5+6reb
gschID: 176612


Group South
Orvieto - T. La Spezia 52-44
Orvieto forced crucial Game Three. That meeting is scheduled for Sunday and Spezia will be the host. T. La Spezia was ahead by 3 points after three quarters before a 20-9 charge of Orvieto, which allowed them to win the game. Swingman Lisa Tripalo (180-87) notched 15 points and 4 assists to lead the effort and international forward Francesca Mariani (188-85) supported her with 9 points and 9 rebounds. Even 15 points and 4 assists by point guard Valentina Costa (168-84) did not help to save the game for T. La Spezia. German power forward Petra Glaser (196-81, college: Long Beach St.) added 7 points and 8 rebounds for the guests.
Top scorers:
Orvieto: L.Tripalo 15+3reb+4ast, F.Mariani 9+9reb, L.Reke 7+4reb+1ast, L.Filippetti 7+4reb+1ast, A.Tava 6+5reb, A.Puliti 4+6reb
T. La Spezia: V.Costa 15+1reb+4ast, R.Sarti 7+4reb, P.Glaser 7+8reb, M.Bonafede 6+3reb, A.Soli 5+4reb+1ast, E.Templari 4+1reb
gschID: 176615


Chieti - Ragusa 73-64
Chieto won the series with perfect 2-0. The now wait for the winner of Orvieto - T. La Spezia series. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Ragusa won third quarter 15-14. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The best player for the winners was international power forward Federica Tognalini (183-91) who had a double-double by scoring 18 points and 14 rebounds. Argentinian point guard Debora Gonzalez (172-90, agency: Players Group) chipped in 13 points. Four C.U.S. Chieti players scored in double figures. Guard Maria Buzzanca (171-76) produced 20 points and 6 rebounds and Mozambican center Clarisse Machanguana (194-73, college: ODU, agency: Josep and Nicolas) added 18 points and 8 rebounds respectively for the guests.
Top scorers:
Chieti: F.Tognalini 18+14reb+1ast, D.Gonzalez 13+3reb+1ast, V.Diodati 11+3reb, E.Silva 10+5reb+1ast, J.Olheim 7+1reb+4ast, C.De Luca 6+2reb
Ragusa: M.Buzzanca 20+6reb+2ast, C.Machanguana 18+8reb+2ast, S.Kouznetsova 10+3reb, M.Bestagno 9+4reb, S.Sarni 3+4reb, F.Mazzone 2+1reb


Lavezzini Parma returns Francesca Zara - by Eurobasket News

Francesca Zara (177-G-76, agency: Players Group) is back to Lavezzini Parma. The veteran guard signed a deal for the 2012/13 season. She already played for Parma from 2008 to 2010 and last two seasons Zara spent with Liomatic Umbertide. In the latest one she had 8 ppg, 3.8 rpg and 2 apg. In 2010/10, Zara averaged 10.3 points, 3.6 rebounds and 2.6 assists in 26 games. With Parma in 2009/10 season the veteran guard had 10.4 ppg, 4 rpg and 3.9 spg for 25 games in Italy. In the past, Francesca Zara played for Valenciennes USVO, Spartak Moscow Region, Napoli and Comense. In 2009, she was named Eurobasket.com All-Italian A1 Guard of the Year -09. So far Zara won five championship titles in Italy and two Cup trophies. She spent many years with the Italian National Team.


*****************************************************
  LUXEMBOURG   


Contern will land Bridget Yoerger - by Eurobasket News

AB Contern will replace their foreign player next season. Bridget Yoerger (180-F-87, agency: LBM Management, college: S.Dakota) is expected to substitute Amanda Stowe (186-F/C-79, college: Wisc.-Green Bay) on the squad. Bridget Yoerger spent the last season with Racing. She averaged 26.4 points, 14.8 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 3.7 steals per game in Diekirch League. Previous season Bridget Yorger spent in Netherlands. She played for Wereldtickets.nl. Her stats read 20.1 points, 10.3 boards, 3.5 steals and 3.2 assists per appearance. Eurobasket.com named Bridget Yoerger All-Dutch Eredivisie Player of the Year. It was the second straight season for Yoerger in Netherlands. She made it into All-Dutch Eredivisie 1st Team in both 2010 and 2011.


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


Wisla Can-Pack inks deal with Daria Mieloszynska - by Eurobasket News

Wisla Can-Pack announced signing of another player for the next season. The Polish champion brought in 28-year-old forward Daria Mieloszynska (188-F-83, agency: Data Plus Group, college: Texas). She arrives to the club from Caja Rural Valbusenda. Mieloszynska joined Caja Rural in January averaging 12.9 points, 6 rebounds and 1.3 assists in 12 Spanish LFB games. She started the season with French Tarbes registering 6.1 ppg and 2.1 rpg for 8 games in domestic championship. The forward had lower numbers for six Euroleague games. Season 2010/11 Daria Mieloszynska spent with Lotos Gdynia. Before that, she played for CCC Polkowice and Duda Tecza Leszno. Mieloszynska also played for the Polish National Team from 2008 to 2010. She had 5.3 ppg and 3 rpg for 6 games at 2009 EuroBasket in Latvia.


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


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

Eurobasket.com All-Portuguese League 1st Team 2012
#s#
Jennifer Risper
Risper
Donica Cosby
Cosby
Joana Lopes
Lopes
Ta-Myra Davis
Davis
Lady Comfort
Comfort
#e#5

Player of the Year: Jennifer Risper (175-G-87) of Alges
Guard of the Year: Donica Cosby (172-G-88) of AFC-Liberty S.
Forward of the Year: Ta-Myra Davis (185-F/C-87) of Montijobanda
Center of the Year: Lady Comfort (188-C-86) of Boa Viagem
Newcomer of the Year: Sofia Silva (187-C-90) of Alges
Most Improved Player of the Year: Ta-Myra Davis (185-F/C-87) of Montijobanda
Import Player of the Year: Jennifer Risper (175-G-87) of Alges
Domestic Player of the Year: Paula Muxiri (184-F/C-81) of Lombos Quinta
Defensive Player of the Year: Jheri Booker (183-F) of CAB Madeira
Coach of the Year: Jose Araujo of Alges

1st Team
G: Donica Cosby (172-88) of AFC-Liberty S.
G: Jennifer Risper (175-87) of Alges
SF: Joana Lopes (185-86) of AD Vagos
F/C: Ta-Myra Davis (185-87) of Montijobanda
C: Lady Comfort (188-86) of Boa Viagem

2nd Team
G: Sofia Ramalho (166-80) of Lombos Quinta
G: Corin Adams (170-88) of Boa Viagem
G/F: Christina Wirth (186-87) of Alges
F: Jheri Booker (183) of CAB Madeira
F/C: Paula Muxiri (184-81) of Lombos Quinta

All-Domestic Players Team
G: Sofia Ramalho (166-80) of Lombos Quinta
: Natacha Ca () of EMA Menres
SF: Joana Lopes (185-86) of AD Vagos
F/C: Paula Muxiri (184-81) of Lombos Quinta
C: Sofia Silva (187-90) of Alges

All-Imports Team
G: Donica Cosby (172-88) of AFC-Liberty S.
G: Jennifer Risper (175-87) of Alges
G/F: Christina Wirth (186-87) of Alges
F/C: Ta-Myra Davis (185-87) of Montijobanda
C: Lady Comfort (188-86) of Boa Viagem


*****************************************************
  RUSSIA   


UMMC Ekaterinburg and Svetlana Abrosimova part ways - by Eurobasket News

Svetlana Abrosimova (187-F-80, college: Connecticut) is no longer a member of UMMC Ekaterinburg. The GM of the club Maxim Ryabkov expressed gratitude to Abrosimova for the years which she spent in the team. The forward joined UMMC in 2007 from Spartak Moscow Region. Last season she had 2.8 ppg, 2.3 rpg and 1.9 apg for 20 games in Russian league and UMMC won the PBL title. Abrosimova had slightly better numbers for 13 Euroleague games. She had limited playing time with UMMC also in 2010/11 season.
Meanwhile, UMMC Ekaterinburg brought in Diana Taurasi (182-F/G-82, college: Connecticut) for the next season. The American guard/forward spent the last one with Galatasaray. She was the top Euroleague scorer with 20.9 ppg for 18 games. Taurasi also added 4.4 rpg and 3.1 apg. In Turkish league she averaged 19 points, 4.8 assists and 3.8 rebounds. Taurasi and Galatasaray won the Turkish Cup this year. Before Galata, Diana Taurasi spent half of the season with Fenerbahce. The guard played for Spartak Vidnoe Moscow Region from 2006 to 2010 and won four Euroleague titles with them. Taurasi also has experience from Dynamo Moscow. In the WNBA, Diana Taurasi is a member of Phoenix Mercury for years. They won WNBA title together in 2007 and 2009. Taurasi won many personal awards over the past eight years including Eurobasket.com All-Europe Player of the Year -07, 09 and All-WNBA Player of the Year -09. Diana Taurasi will play for the Phoenix Mercury in 2012 WNBA season and she will also play for the USA NT at the 2012 Olympic Games in London.


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


Basket Landes signs Tamara Abalde - by Eurobasket News

Tamara Abalde (188-G-89, agency: Josep and Nicolas) is a new member of Basket Landes. The Spanish guard signed a one-year deal with the club. Abalde spent last season with Pays d'Aix Basket 13 Provence. She had 10.3 ppg, 4.3 rpg and 1.1 apg for the club in 26 LFB games. It was her first season in France. Before that, Abalde split one year between Rivas Ecopolis and Navarra. She played for Rivas also from 2008 to 2010. In the past, Tamara Abalde spent one year with Lamar University (NCAA1) and few years with Celta Vigo. The player helped U20 Spanish NT to win the Silver at U20 EuroBasket 2009 in Poland. She shined with 12.4 ppg, 5.3 rpg and 1.6 apg for 10 games at this event. Abalde also won few more medals with Spanish youth National Teams.


Candidates for Spanish NT announced - by Eurobasket News

Spanish Basketball Federation announced list of 17 candidates for the Spanish National Team this summer. The list includes Sancho Lyttle (192-C-83, college: Houston), who will play in the WNBA this season but she is expected to join the NT at one point. Also there is no Silvia Dominguez (167-PG-87), who decided to spend the entire season in the WNBA. However, yesterday she was suspended for the season, but it was too late to add her to the list of NT candidates.

NT candidates
Elisa Aguilar (177-G-76, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: G.Washington)
Laia Palau (178-G-79)
Cristina Ouvina (174-G-90)
Marta Xargay Casademont (180-G-90, agency: Josep and Nicolas)
Anna Montanana (186-F-80, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: G.Washington)
Sancho Lyttle
Amaya Valdemoro (184-F-76, agency: Josep and Nicolas)
Marta Fernandez (178-F-81)
Anna Cruz (173-PG-86, agency: Josep and Nicolas)
Lucila Pascua (195-C-83)
Cindy Lima (194-C-81, agency: Josep and Nicolas)
Laura Nicholls (189-C-89, agency: Josep and Nicolas)
Tamara Abalde (188-G-89, agency: Josep and Nicolas)
Maria Pina (187-F-87)
Amaya Gastaminza (189-F-91, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Oregon St.)
Leonor Rodriguez Manso (180-G-91)
Vanessa Ble (190-F/C-91)

Head Coach of the team is Lucas Mondelo and his assistants are Victor Antonio Lapena and Isabel Sanchez (180-F-76, agency: Josep and Nicolas). The National Team camp starts in ten days (May 28). Spain is placed to Group D of the 2013 EuroBasket Qualifications. Their rivals will be Germany, Sweden, Bulgaria and Romania. The National team will play friendly games against Lithuania, Latvia and Sweden.


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  TAIWAN   

Standings - WSBL

WSBL 2012 regular season Standings
 1. Cathay Life 16-2 
 2. Chunghwa T. 8-10 
 3. Taiyuan T. 6-12 
 4. Taipower 6-12 


Asia-Basket.com All-Taiwanese WSBL Awards 2011-12 - by Eurobasket

All-Taiwanese WSBL 1st Team 2012
#s#
Chien-Hui Hsu
Hsu
Jui-Yu Lan
Lan
Yi-Hung Ma
Ma
Feng-Chun Chiang
Chiang
#e#4

Player of the Year: Hsu Chien-Hui (171-G/F-89) of Chunghwa T.
Guard of the Year: Hsu Chien-Hui (171-G/F-89) of Chunghwa T.
Forward of the Year: Chiang Feng-Chun (184-F-81) of Cathay Life
Center of the Year: Wang Li-Yun (177-F/C-85) of Chunghwa T.

1st Team
G: Lan Jui-Yu (170-83) of Cathay Life
G/F: Hsu Chien-Hui (171-89) of Chunghwa T.
F/G: Ma Yi-Hung (176-80) of Taiyuan T.
F: Chiang Feng-Chun (184-81) of Cathay Life
F/C: Wang Li-Yun (177-85) of Chunghwa T.

2nd Team
G: Huang Fan-Shan (173-87) of Cathay Life
G: Huang YingLi (170-89) of Cathay Life
F: Chen Yu-Chun (176-87) of Cathay Life
C: Xie Pei-Jun (181-91) of Chunghwa T.
C: Lin Chi-Wen (186-83) of Taipower

Honorable Mention
Li Wan-Ting (180-G-86) of Cathay Life
Peng Szu-Chin (163-G-91) of Taiyuan T.
Huang Hong-Ying (165-G-89) of Chunghwa T.
Liu Yi-Chun (186-C-86) of Taipower
Tsai Pei-Chen (186-C-84) of Taiyuan T.
Cheng Hui-Yun (186-F/C-77) of Cathay Life


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


Edremit adds Marina Kress - by Eurobasket News

According to Turkish media (Pota6), Edremit Belediyesi signed another player for the next season. Reportedly, the TKBL newcomer penned a deal with Marina Kress (193-C-80). The Belarusian center arrives to the club from Botasspor Adana, where she spent last season. For 21 TKBL games Kress registered 6.1 ppg and 4.8 rpg. She also added 5 ppg and 6.9 rpg for 12 games in EuroCup. Before Botas, Marina Kress played one season for Sony Athinaikos. They won the Greek championship title and Cup together. Athinaikos also reached EuroCup Semifinals. Kress had 7.6 ppg and 4.8 rpg in this competition. In the past, Kress played for Tarsus, Galatasaray, Extrugasa, Dynamo-Energia Novosybirsk and few other teams. Last summer at the EuroBasket in Poland Kress played 6 games for the Belarusian NT. She had 2.8 ppg and 3.3 rpg. Kress is active NT member since 2003.


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  WNBA   

Standings

WNBA Standings
Eastern
 1. Atlanta D. 0-0 
 2. Chicago S. 0-0 
 3. Connecticut S. 0-0 
 4. Indiana F. 0-0 
 5. New York L. 0-0 
 6. Washington M. 0-0 
Western
 1. Seattle S. 1-0 
 2. Minnesota L. 0-0 
 3. Phoenix M. 0-0 
 4. S.Antonio SS 0-0 
 5. Tulsa S. 0-0 
 6. L.Angeles S. 0-1 

Regular Season: Round 1

May. 18: Seattle S. - L.Angeles S. 66-72

Regular Season: Round 2

May. 19: New York L. - Connecticut S.
May. 19: Washington M. - Chicago S.
May. 19: Indiana F. - Atlanta D.
May. 19: Tulsa S. - S.Antonio SS


Sparks explode in Q4 to win 2012 WNBA season opener - by Eurobasket News

Seattle Strom - Los Angeles Sparks 66-72

The Los Angeles Sparks did a great job last night in Seattle. It was the opening game of the 2012 WNBA season and Sparks celebrated 66-72 road victory. They were down by 14 points with ten minutes to go in the game, but exploded with 10-30 in the last quarter to take the season opener. Kristi Toliver (5'7''-PG-87, college: Maryland) stepped up for the guests with 25 points and 6 assists. She reached valuation 24 and was the MVP of this game. Candace Parker (6'4''-F/C-86, college: Tennessee) scored 11 points, while Alana Beard (5'11''-G/F-82, college: Duke) and Nnemkadi Ogwumike (6'2''-F-90, college: Stanford) netted 9 points each. In the loosing squad, Ann Wauters (6'5''-C-80, agency: Josep and Nicolas) collected 17 points and 7 rebounds. Sue Bird (5'9''-G-80, college: Connecticut) had 15 points, 6 rebs and 6 assists, while Tina Thompson (6'2''-F-75, agency: Merit Sports, college: USC) added 12 points and 8 boards. Quarters: 24-10, 11-14, 21-18, 10-30. Four games will be played today.
.
Seattle Strom: Ann Wauters 17+7 boards, Sue Bird 15+6 boards+6 as, Tina Thompson 12+8 boards
Los Angeles Sparks: Kristi Toliver 25+6 as, Candace Parker 11, Alana Beard 9, Nnemkadi Ogwumike 9


WNBA season opens today with Los Angeles at Seattle - by Eurobasket News

The WNBA tips-off its 16th season with one game on Friday, the Storm hosting longtime rival in the Los Angeles Sparks. While both teams are getting used to plenty of new faces, the Sparks' future will be all about Candace Parker (6'4''-F/C-86, college: Tennessee) -- Point. Blank. Period. Dot com, to steal a catchphrase from Tamar Braxton.

A 6-foot-4 post, Parker has missed 27 of her team's past 68 games due to shoulder surgery in 2010 and a torn lateral meniscus in 2011. She's shy to talk about her heath, but the 2008 MVP and Rookie of the Year knows she has to stay on the court.

'I am looking forward to the start of the WNBA season, I really am,' said Parker, 26, who's also a member of USA Basketball's Olympic team that will compete at the London Games this summer. 'I can't necessarily say that about years' past with it being right after overseas (play) and being tired and everything. But this year I'm really looking forward to it because I've missed playing in front of my hometown.'

Parker won the Russian league championship with Sue Bird at the helm. During play over the course of the season Parker also picked up a new nickname, 'Candy.' At least that's what broadcasters constantly blared when she cut to the hoop like the Tennessee star with whom we're familiar. (Side note: I couldn't get Cameo's hit 'It's Like Candy' out of my head all offseason due to those broadcasts).

'That's not my name,' said Parker, who's been told several times of the fun moniker. She still prefers 'CP3.' 'I've never gone by Candy. Ever.'

Well, Parker's game is sweet, again. The Sparks, which didn't advance to the postseason, and Storm split the series last year. With revamped rosters, they look like the best contenders to challenge defending champion Minnesota for the Western Conference title.

Seattle finalized its roster on Wednesday and has used the past three practice sessions, including Friday's shoot-around, to begin adjusting to five new faces. Bird said LA moving its home opener to Tuesday due to NBA and NHL playoffs on Sunday is a positive because the team now gets two days off and time to play a game, work some kinks out, play another game on the road in LA and then dive into the season.

Of course the finalization of spots meant Prairie High's Ashley Corral was cut. The guard was positive about her performance in training camp, however. She played in the Storm's lone exhibition matchup at KeyArena on Sunday, scoring the eventual game-winning basket.

Corral, who starred at USC, hopes another team will pick her up but will definitely play overseas when it comes time to sign with teams.

Gonzaga wing Katelan Redmon was cut from New York's roster leaving Atlanta F Cathrine Kraayeveld (Lake Washington High), Chicago PG Courtney Vandersloot (Kentwood High), Indiana PG Briann January (Lewis & Clark High), New York PG Leilani Mitchell (Kennewick High) and Liberty teammate Alex Montgomery (Lincoln High) as the state's players in the WNBA this season.

'This has been an amazing experience,' said Corral, whose sister Heather will play for the University of Washington next season. 'I grew up in this arena watching Sue Bird. My sister had on Sue Bird's jersey (Sunday), it was mine when I was little.

'Little things like that make this an amazing experience. I've learned so much throughout the whole process. This has literally been life-changing.'

The WNBA season will be an interesting one given the once-injured players returning and league-wide hiatus July 14 through Aug. 15 for the Olympic break. For an in-depth breakdown from some of the league's media voices, click here for a podcast including myself. Here is a breakdown of the Western Conference and the Eastern Conference.

Courtesy of http://seattletimes.nwsource.com


Atlanta Dream announces Roster - by Eurobasket News

The Atlanta Dream finalized its 11-player roster today, waiving guard Coco Miller (5'9''-G-78, college: Georgia) and temporarily suspending center Erika De Souza (6'6''-C-82, agency: Josep and Nicolas). De Souza, a member of Brazil's national team, will report to the Dream after the 2012 Olympics.

The temporary suspension of de Souza, along with the waiver of Miller, sets the Dream's roster heading into the season opener at Indiana on May 19. Once de Souza returns, the Dream will boast all five starters from last year's Eastern Conference championship team. The roster also features two 2012 Olympians as All-Star forward Angel McCoughtry will represent the United States in London.

'We are excited about the team we have in place with the addition of a few key newcomers joining our core group of returning players,' said Atlanta Dream Head Coach and General Manager Marynell Meadors. 'We were faced with some very difficult decisions, including the waiver of Coco Miller who has been a tremendous contributor to our team for the past three seasons. This year's training camp was very competitive and we are looking forward to carrying that into the 2012 season.'

The 2012 roster includes five newcomers and the return of center Yelena Leuchanka (6'5''-C-83, college: W.Virginia). Leuchanka did not play in the WNBA last year due to commitments to the Belarus national team. The newcomers include rookies Tiffany Hayes and Aneika Henry, and free agent signees Laurie Koehn (5'8''-G-82, college: Kansas St.), Cathrine Kraayeveld (6'4''-F-81, agency: LBM Management, college: Oregon) and Ketia Swanier (5'7''-PG-86, college: Connecticut).

The Atlanta Dream tips off its fifth season this summer at Philips Arena as part of the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA), the world's longest-running women's professional sports league. The Dream, the defending two-time, back-to-back Eastern Conference Champion, opens its regular season home schedule on May 25 against the New York Liberty at 7:30 p.m.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com


Mystics set final roster - by Eurobasket News

The Washington Mystics today announced their final roster for the 2012 WNBA season. The team is set to tip-off their 15th anniversary season on Saturday May 19 at 7:00 pm when the Chicago Sky come to Verizon Center.

Washington's roster will be led by All-Star Crystal Langhorne (6'2''-F/C-86, college: Maryland) and will feature veterans Dominique Canty (5'9''-G/F-77, agency: Merit Sports, college: Alabama), Monique Currie (6'0''-G/F-83, college: Duke), Ashley Robinson (6'4''-C-82, college: Tennessee) and Michelle Snow (6'5''-C-80, agency: LBM Management, college: Tennessee). They will be joined by first round pick Natalie Novosel (5'11''-G-89, agency: LBM Management, college: Notre Dame).

Washington waived Lasondra Barrett (6'2''-F-90, college: LSU) and Jessica Breland. The team will also put forward LaToya Sanders (6'3''-PF-86, college: N.Carolina) on the suspended list as she tends to a family matter. The following is the Washington Mystics' 2012 roster:


No. Player Pos. Ht. Wt. Birthdate College WNBA Yrs.

22 Matee Ajavon G 5-8 160 05/07/86 Rutgers 4

3 Dominique Canty G 5-9 166 03/02/77 Alabama 13

25 Monique Currie F 6-0 177 02/25/83 Duke 6

21 Natasha Lacy G 5-10 165 07/08/85 Texas-El Paso 2

1 Crystal Langhorne F-C 6-2 190 10/27/86 Maryland 4

20 Natalie Novosel G 5-11 165 11/22/89 Notre Dame R

45 Noelle Quinn G 6-0 175 01/03/85 UCLA 5

43 Ashley Robinson C 6-4 180 08/12/82 Tennessee 8

2 Michelle Snow G 6-5 158 03/20/80 Tennessee 10

5 Jasmine Thomas G 5-9 145 09/30/89 Duke 1

14 Lindsay Wisdom-Hylton F 6-2 186 05/26/86 Purdue 3

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com