EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 5/25/2012 1:04:01 AM

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


Men News

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



Penarol is one win away from LigaA title - by Eurobasket News

LigaA Finals, Game 4: Penarol - Obras 78-75

Fourth games of LigaA Finals between Penarol and Obras was played last night. The hosts celebrated 78-75 victory for 3-1 lead in the series. The format is best-of-seven and Penarol is now one win away from the title. Game Five is scheduled for Monday and Obras will be the host. Selem Safar (190-G-87) top-scored in victory with 23 points, while Facundo Campazzo (179-PG-91) added 20 points, 5 rebs and 5 assists. Franco Giorgetti (202-F-92) followed them with 11 points. At the other side, Darren Fells (201-F/C-86, college: Cal-Irvine) shined with double-double of 20 points and 15 rebs. Juan Gutierrez (205-F/C-83) had 18 points and 6 boards, and Martin Osimani (194-G-81, college: Duquesne) collected 14 points, 5 rebs and 5 as. Quarters: 20-19, 24-15, 13-21, 21-20. If necessary, Game Six and Seven will be played on May 31 and June 4.

Penarol: Selem Safar 23, Facundo Campazzo 20+5 boards+5 as, Franco Giorgetti 11
Obras: Darren Fells 20+15 boards, Juan Gutierrez 18+6 boards, Martin Osimani 14+5 boards+5 as


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


Norwood Flames sign Brian Moultrie - by Eurobasket Center

Norwood Flames (ABA) signed 25-year old American power forward Brian Moultrie (198-C/F-100kg-87, college: Armstr.Atlantic, agency: Team 31 Sports Management). Moultrie played most recently at Oulun NMKY and Forssan Koripojat (Finland). A very impressive season as he was selected to Eurobasket.com All-Finnish 1st Division 1st Team. Moultrie graduated from Armstrong Atlantic State University in 2009 and it will be his third season in pro basketball.


Wollongong Hawks put rookies through their paces - by Eurobasket News

Wollongong Hawks coach Gordie McLeod hopes this weeks rookies trial leads to unearthing a diamond in the rough.

McLeod ran an eye over 13 hopefuls during a specially organised training session on Tuesday at the Snakepit.

Among the group were a few AIS scholarship holders, as well as players from Sydney, Adelaide and Brisbane.

Also taking part in the four-hour session were Wollongong free agent Daniel Jackson (200-F-88), development squad players Zac Delaney (165-PG-90) and Alexander Beagley (G), and former Hawks development squad player Jordan Barry (195-G-92).

It was fantastic. It was pretty exciting, actually, McLeod said of the workout.

Its a great opportunity to work with them and get a feel for them with regards to possibly a position with us this year, but if not that, then maybe something in the coming years.

We put them through a typical NBL practice. Its something weve spoken about for a while with the guys from the institute ... the timing was really good to have them here.

Being an NBL program, its good for them to get exposure to some NBL coaches.

It also gave our local guys and a couple of other guys who came from Brisbane and Adelaide and Sydney the same opportunity as it did the AIS guys. It was good to see our local guys go up against those players.

Its something we can definitely build on, and well do it again with the AIS guys in July when we get the rest of our group together.

One of those to take part in the session was 208cm Madol Chol, a Sudanese-born teenager McLeod predicts is headed for the AIS.

I think theyre going to offer him a scholarship if they already havent, he said.

Of their 11-man roster from last season, the Hawks have Larry Davidson, Tim Coenraad, Rhys Martin and Oscar Forman under contract for 2012-13.

McLeod said he was in ongoing discussions with free agents Jackson, Glen Saville, Dave Gruber and Tyson Demos.

Ill be chatting to those guys over the coming days, he said.

Theres some other stuff that were working on with regards to recruitment, and that was part to do with my trip to New Zealand [last week].

The NBL 2012-13 season will tip off in October.

Courtesy of www.illawarramercury.com.au


Taipans re-sign Loughton - by Hugh McAuliffe

The Skytrans Cairns Taipans are proud to announce the signing of Alexander Loughton (205-F/C-83, college: ODU) on a new two-year deal.

Co-captain Loughton has become an integral part of the Taipans squad on and off the court. In his second season with the club Alex showed glimpses of his best after a late start troubled by injuries. Alex has shown that he is one of the most versatile big men in the NBL when he is playing at his full potential.

Alex was a top priority of ours and we are very pleased to have him for the next two years. Both on and off the court he is a great fit for the Taipans and the type of role model we want around the club, Aaron Fearne said.

After discussions with two other clubs Alex knew Cairns was the number one place he wanted to be.

My first two years with the club have been great. The support both on and off the court has been tremendous, Said Loughton.

Alexs belief in the ability of the already established Taipans roster to win the NBL championship in the not to distant future was a major factor in him inking his signature to the club for the next two seasons.

The club is moving in the right direction to secure players on long term deals and create a championship team. I certainly wanted to be apart of that.

Last year was tough with injuries, but Im looking forward to getting back to full health and being able to give it a good crack over the next two seasons.

2012-13 squad so far:
Dusty Rychart (201-F-79, agency: Priority Sports, college: Minnesota)
Cameron Tragardh (209-C/F-83, college: ORU)
Clint Steindl (199-G/F-89, college: St.Mary's, CA)
Cameron Gliddon (195-G-89, college: Concordia Irvine)
Jamar Wilson (185-PG-84, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Albany)
Aaron Grabau (196-G/F-78)
Alexander Loughton



Kings sign first import - by Hugh McAuliffe

Sydney Kings Head Coach, Shane Heal, has announced the signing of dynamic point guard, Corin Henry (180-PG-88, college: Tarleton St.), as the first of two potential imports for the 2012/13 NBL season.

Corin has been described as an extremely quick point guard who can really stretch out the floor with his speed. He is very good at reading the passing lanes and getting his hands on passes. He also has a strong scoring ability across the court and is known to be a great team player.

HBA Sports reported that teams will have a hard time keeping him out of the paint because of his quickness and ball handling ability, He also utilise his speed on defence getting into position with his body before his time opponents have time to react.

While Corin Henry is only 180cm, in stature, he plays with a big heart. He is a great defender that will be very disruptive for the opposition. Corin is as comfortable scoring as he is creating for teammates and is impressive with in his maturity during his games for such a young player, the HBA report concluded.

Head Coach, Shane Heal, said that Corin Henry would form an integral part of theSydney Kings roster for the 2012-2013 season.

Along with our announced signings of our new and returning Australian players, as our import, Corin Henry will be an important addition to our roster and our teams success. He has extreme quickness and an ability to get to the hoop to score or create opportunities for the rest of the team, Coach Heal said.

Our fans have been calling out for an exciting American Point Guard and in Corin Henry they will see a player whowill fire up the Kingdome, controlling a game, and who is also a very good defender all over the court, he added.

Im really looking forward to working with Corin and helping his development in the point guard position, and adding his enthusiasm to the team. He is a great signing and one that will make a great contribution to the Sydney Kings.

Corin plays with a maturity above his youthful 24 year of age and has some outstanding statistics with his previous club, Naestved, in Denmark, Coach Heal said.


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

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Stjepan STAZIC
  BC Vienna
  (199-G-78)
  Avg: 26.3
 1. Stazic, BC Vienna26.3 
 2. Drenovac, Arkadia23.0 
 3. Reed, Oberwart19.9 
 4. Shaw, Oberwart18.3 
 5. Shavies, Furstenf.18.1 
 6. Curry, Gmunden18.0 
 7. Djuric, Gussing17.2 
 8. Matthews, BC Vi.17.2 
 9. Grum, UBSC G.17.1 
 10. Stegnjaic, UBSC G.17.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Joe WERNER
  Wels
  (201-C-84)
  Avg: 9.3
 1. Werner, Wels9.3 
 2. Oppland, Gmunden8.7 
 3. Gordon, Kapfenberg8.4 
 4. Reed, Oberwart7.8 
 5. Ware, Furstenfeld7.2 
 6. Skurdauskas, Arkad.7.2 
 7. Moric, UBSC G.7.1 
 8. Robinson, Furstenf.6.8 
 9. Chappell, Klostern.6.8 
 10. Nelson, Kapfenbe.6.8 
Assists Per Game
 Benedikt DANEK
  Arkadia
  (176-PG-86)
  Avg: 6.9
 1. Danek, Arkadia6.9 
 2. Fears, Kapfenberg6.5 
 3. Shavies, Furstenf.5.9 
 4. Schreiner, Kapfe.5.4 
 5. Klepeisz, Gussing5.1 
 6. Curry, Gmunden5.0 
 7. Stazic, BC Vienna4.7 
 8. Schaal, UBSC G.4.4 
 9. Grum, UBSC G.3.9 
 10. Milosevic, St.Pol.3.8 
Steals Per Game
 Jeremy FEARS
  Kapfenberg
  (196-G-85)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Fears, Kapfenberg2.5 
 2. Shavies, Furstenf.2.3 
 3. Matthews, BC Vi.2.0 
 4. Toroman, BC Vienna1.9 
 5. Schreiner, Kapfe.1.9 
 6. Brown, Wels1.9 
 7. Pryor, Wels1.9 
 8. O''Neal, Furstenfeld1.5 
 9. Curry, Gmunden1.4 
 10. Bobb, Klosterneub.1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Gary WARE
  Furstenfeld
  (205-F/C-83)
  Avg: 1.1
 1. Ware, Furstenfeld1.1 
 2. Scott, Gussing0.9 
 3. Skurdauskas, Arkad.0.8 
 4. Koch, Gussing0.7 
 5. Brown, Wels0.7 
 6. Arnold, Gmunden0.7 
 7. Moric, UBSC G.0.6 
 8. Nelson, Kapfenberg0.6 
 9. Kohlmaier, Wels0.6 
 10. Rizvic, Oberwart0.6 


Xion Dukes Klosterneuburg wins A Bundesliga title - by Eurobasket News

Finals, Game 4: Klosterneuburg - Gmunden 67-55 (3-1)

Xion Dukes Klosterneuburg is the new champion of Austrian A Bundesliga. They outplayed Gmunden tonight 67-55 winning the Finals with almost perfect 3-1.
The hosts trailed by 1 point after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 8-point lead at the halftime and increased it for rest of the game. American swingman Curtis Bobb (198-78, college: Utah St.) fired 23 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Bosnian power forward Ramiz Suljanovic (206-79) chipped in 11 points and 8 rebounds. American forward Dan Oppland (203-84, college: Valparaiso, agency: SportsTalent) produced a double-double by scoring 16 points and 12 rebounds and his fellow American import guard Morris Curry (178-87, college: Providence) added 16 points and 4 assists respectively for lost side.
Klosterneuburg was the second ranked team in regular season with 21-9 record. They eliminated Furstenfeld in the Quarterfinals with 3-2. Later, Klosterneuburg edged Kapfenberg in the Semis 3-1. Gmunden was the regular season champion and they had a home court advantage in the Finals, but it didn't help.

Klosterneuburg: C.Bobb 23+6reb+2ast, R.Suljanovic 11+8reb, C.Nagler 10+4reb+2ast, J.Chappell 6+5reb+2ast, M.Rachar 6+2reb, M.Lanegger 4+7reb+5ast
Gmunden: D.Oppland 16+12reb, M.Curry 16+1reb+4ast, E.Murati 12+3reb, M.Mayer 9+4reb+1ast, M.Oppland 2+2reb+2ast, E.Brkic 0


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


Unics Kazan keeps Vladimir Veremeenko until 2014 - by Eurobasket News

Vladimir Veremeenko (208-F-84, agency: RU-Basket Management) will stay with Unics Kazan until the end of the 2013/14 season. The player penned a two-year contract extension today. Veremeenko played 17 Euroleague games for Unics this season averaging 8.5 points and 6 rebounds. Unics was the newcomer and managed to reach the Quarterfinals. Veremeenko also added 7.8 ppg and 4.2 rpg for 16 games in VTB United League, plus 10.6 ppg and 6.6 rpg for 21 games in PBL. Vladimir Veremeenko joined Unics in 2008 from Khimky Moscow Region. Before that, he played for Dynamo St.Petersburg and Avtodor Saratov. Veremeenko won the EuroCup with Unics a year ago. They also celebrated in Russian Cup in 2009. Vladimir Veremeenko played for the Belarusian NT in 2002, 2005 and 2007.


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


Oostende is the first finalist - by Eurobasket News

Semifinals, Game 2: Mons-Hainaut - Oostende 78-85 (0-2)

Oostende advanced to Belgian league Finals. They cruised past Mons-Hainaut last night on the road 78-85 winning the series with perfect 2-0. Oostende now waits for the winner of Charleroi - Antwerp series. Charleroi currently has 1-0 lead and will host Game Two tonight.
The guests trailed by 3 points at the halftime before their 43-33 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. It was a great shooting night for Base Oostende especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 56.3 percentage. 24 personal fouls committed by Belfius Mons-Hainaut helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American players dominated the game. Guard Matt Lojeski (198-85, college: Hawaii) orchestrated the victory by scoring 23 points. Forward Kennedy Winston (198-84, college: Alabama) contributed with 23 points for the winners. Base Oostende's coach Dario Gjergja used an eleven-player rotation in this game. Guard A.J. Slaughter (191-87, college: W.Kentucky) replied with 19 points and guard Quincy Taylor (196-82, college: UAB) added 17 points in the effort for Belfius Mons-Hainaut.
Oostende was the regular season champion in Belgium. They registered 23 wins in 32 games. It means that Oostende will have a home court advantage in the Finals (best-of-five).

M.Hainaut: A.Slaughter 19+4reb+3ast, Q.Taylor 17+2reb+3ast, A.Nivins 15+5reb, J.Cage 7+4reb+1ast, S.Foster 7+1reb+2ast, A.Libert 5+2reb
Oostende: M.Lojeski 23+4reb+2ast, K.Winston 23+2reb+2ast, D.Drobnjak 8+9reb+1ast, C.Booker 8+5reb, D.Djordjevic 7+4reb+2ast, D.Buycks 7


Exclusive interview: Coach Herb Brown shows interest in Belgian basketball - by Bert Larsimont

It is not everyday that you find an NBA coach who is interested in the Belgian basketball program. Last week, my colleague Peter Buyse and I exchanged e-mails with Matthew D. Brown of Strategic Sports Management LLC. He represents Herb Brown, who has a vast resume of coaching in the USA (NBA) and overseas (ACB). Herb Brown, a former Head Coach of the Detroit Pistons, has thirty years of successful basketball experience at the highest professional levels in the USA and internationally. When going through Coach Brown's resume, we can read that he is able to get the most out of his players, getting them to reach their full potential. A tireless worker, his unparalleled level of knowledge, dedication and attention to detail make him a superior coaching candidate. His coaching experience also includes eight years in college and fifteen seasons in Puerto Rico. He has fourteen years service as an NBA assistant coach. Herb Brown is presently assisting and helping the coach of the Uruguay National Team in preparation for the FIBA South American Championship in Chaco, Argentina from 18th to 22th June 2012.

Herb Brown is a six time Coach of the Year and his teams have won five championships. Coach Brown is an active participant in voluntary US and international basketball programs including the NBA's Basketball Without Borders, Peace Players International and The Friendship Games. He has authored three books and has participated in many basketball coaching clinics throughout the world.

With this communication, Coach Brown's agent wants to target the teams in the Belgian top division. Matthew D. Brown of Strategic Sports Management LLC believes that Herb Brown would be a great fit based on his experience and knowledge. He is sure that Herb Brown would be happy to exchange opinions and viewpoints as the American basketball coach is a true student of the game.

Although it is true that we do not often get an NBA legend who shows interest in the Belgian competition or program, we should nevertheless remind our readers that another NBA legend, Jack Ramsay, perfectly completed the Belgian National Team's staff by giving the players (the Belgian Lions) some excellent tips in 1993. It had been a big plus for all the Lions back then.

Here is the exclusive interview with Herb Brown:

Bertrand Larsimont - Eurobasket.com (EB): In a first e-mail exchange with your agent Matthew D. Brown (Strategic Sports Management LLC), he has mentioned: 'Herb Brown is currently available and interested in going back overseas next year. I know he would love to have the opportunity to come to Belgium to coach.' What do you know about Belgian basketball and what would your coaching expectations be in Belgium? Have you ever had contacts with some club (s) or manager (s) in Belgium?

Coach Herb Brown (H.B.): When I previously coached in Spain, Belgium always had good teams in the Korac Cup and other European competitions. Charleroi, Pepinster and Oostende were always very good teams and the league in Belgium was always competitive. If I was given the opportunity to coach in Belgium, I would try to work on developing and improving the foundation for a winning situation by working hard, teaching and coaching every day. The goal I would establish is to have every player realize his obligation to not only improve individually but to also work each day to make their teammates better as well. I dont know much about the Belgian league and regretfully have not been in contact with any of its clubs. I honestly leave that up to my agent. I am sure I would like very much to explore the opportunity to coach in the league.

EB: The Ethias League, the Belgian pro league, will only count 8 teams next season (losing one more -- Optima Gent -- again this season). The Ethias League obviously looks more and more like a closed league where being able to pay a licence to keep a chance to play in the pro league and reaching a big budget remain the main rules to be met by top clubs. According to you, what could be a solution to get a more competitive and appealing league in the future?

H.B.: I am disappointed to see that the Ethias League will be reduced to only eight teams. Many leagues have downsized but I do not think that it is good for a country trying to develop players. In order to become more competitive, you need more teams in the league or you need a strong Division II devoted to developing young Belgian players by giving them a chance to play and gain experience. It would also help if the first league could somehow try to expand by adding one team a year and by getting sponsors to help bring up a team each year from a strong Division II, possibly the title winner. Maybe these teams could be subsidized by giving them the ability to have perhaps one extra foreign player for one year to help them compete. They should not be relegated to the Division II again for at least two or three seasons to help the team develop.

EB: 2012 is an Olympic year. The London Olympics are getting closer and closer. What European teams and talents will leave their imprint on the Olympic basketball tournament next summer?

H.B.: Many European teams have a chance to medal and cause problems at the Olympics, notably Spain and France. They are experienced and deep teams. Russia as well as Greece and/or Turkey could also make waves. Lithuania is always a threat to medal. European basketball has grown consistently and looks poised to really compete for the gold.

EB: Through your previous experiences in Europe, who were the most impressive European players that you coached and what were your best memories?

H.B.: I thoroughly enjoyed coaching in Spain. I have many great memories even though my first season in Joventut Badalona was incredibly difficult because I did not fully understand the club and its policies. At that time, winning did not prove to be enough. However, I did learn a great deal and coached three outstanding Spanish players: Jordi Villacampa, Jose Antonio Montero and Rafa Jofresa. I also remember having coached some very good young players like Juan Antonio Morales and Carlos Ruf. The Americans Reggie Johnson and LeMone Lampley were terrific too! That team won the Korac Cup in 1989-90 and, had I been retained as the coach, would have won the Liga ACB title. Of the latter, I have no doubt. At Tau Ceramica Vitoria, I coached Juan Ramon Rivas, Chicho Sibillio and Pablo Laso, the present Real Madrid coach. The Americans Joe Arlauckas, Scott Roth and David Wood were all good players and warriors. We got better each year, made it to the playoffs and almost upset Real Madrid in a tough five game semi-final series, going to the fifth game on the road. When I was coach for Zaragoza, we lost a tough quarter-final playoff to Joventut Badalona who went on to win the European League with Zeljko Obradovic as Head Coach. I love winning and helping to develop players and their winning attitudes and like very much to watch them improve and take pride in making each other better.

EB: We are in the wake of a period of changes in Belgium. Professional clubs in the top Ethias League are trying to have more Belgian players on their rosters. Would you consider training local players as a challenge if you could train and coach in Belgium? Would getting the best of Belgian young talents and giving them a chance to improve and play more be among your projects? Could it be a mission that you would fulfill?

H.B.: I think my previous answer helps answer this question. I would definitely want to coach young Belgian players and help them improve and succeed. It would be a challenge I would embrace and welcome. I believe in coaching fundamentals and teamwork both offensively and defensively and preparing players to compete to the best of their abilities. I want to accentuate their positive attributes instead of dwelling on negatives. Our goal is to coach, teach and prepare them to compete at the highest level and to the best of their ability. We will correct mistakes positively, not negatively. Our players will grow as players and teammates.

EB: The NBA remains the main reference in basketball worldwide. How would you compare it with European professional basketball nowadays? What would you consider as strengths and weaknesses in Europe's domestic leagues? Where would you rank Belgium on the international basketball scene?

H.B.: While I still believe the NBA is the best basketball league in the world, one must recognize the fact that of the 450 players in the league almost 100 come from foreign countries. Many of these players were trained and developed in European leagues. For example: Dirk Nowitzki (213-F-78) of Germany; Tony Parker (183-PG-82), Boris Diaw (203-PF-82) and Nicolas Batum (201-F-88) of France; Jose Manuel Calderon (190-PG-81), the Gasol brothers and Ricky Rubio (192-G-90) of Spain; Vlade Divac (212-C-68), Predrag Stojakovic (207-F-77) of Serbia; Goran Dragic (194-PG-86) of Slovenia; Hidayet Turkoglu (206-F-79), Ersan Ilyasova (207-F-87) and Mehmet Okur (210-C/F-79) of Turkey; Zaza Pachulia (212-C-84), Andrei Kirilenko (205-F-81), Danilo Gallinari (208-F-88), Andrea Bargnani (209-F/C-85) and many more. So many great players and even more coming from other countries every year! Jan Vesely (211-F-90) from the Czech Republic is another example. I have not recently seen enough of Belgium basketball but I know Belgian squads compete favourably on the European circuit. I almost neglected to mention the great European players who led the emergence of European talents to the NBA including Drazen Petrovic of Croatia, Fernando Martin of Spain and Arvidas Sabonis and Sarunas Marciulionis of Lithuania.

EB: What message can you send to convince Belgian club managers who would think about you as a possible coach in the future?

H.B.: All of the above answers this question. Let me also stress the fact that they would be getting a highly qualified, dedicated and professional teacher and coach who loves helping create and develop a winning atmosphere. My goal is to help make the organizations become the best they can be.

EB: In only one sentence, how would you summarize your previous experiences as a coach overseas?

H.B.: I thoroughly enjoyed every experience I had when coaching overseas, including myself and my family, not only in all aspects of teaching and coaching but also immersing ourselves in the culture and the community.

As we are currently in the middle of the 2012 Ethias League playoffs, we hope that this interview with Coach Herb Brown will be considered as a nice end-of-season present by Belgium's as well as all other Eurobasket.com readers. A big 'thank you' to Coach Brown for his time and professionalism in answering the above questions.

If you want more information about Herb Brown's profile, please contact his agent Matthew D. Brown of Strategic Sports Management LLC at matthew.brown@strategicsportsman.com.


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


Drasko Albijanic wins the duel over Jovanovic Zlatko - by Eurobasket News

Drasko Albijanic (211-C-86) wins the duel over Zlatko Jovanovic (181-PG-84, agency: Beo Basket) as both player finished the season in Romania. Draskos Ploiesti swept the Final series for the title leaving no chances to Timisoara. Game 4 was the last in the series and brought 80-78 for home side.
Ploiesti started the game with 15-14, but allowed the guests to take the lead at the halftime after 19-10 in the second period. Ploiesti needed 22-18 in the third quarter and 25-21 in the fourth period to tie the game. Timisoara was plagued by 27 personal fouls down the stretch. Worth to mention a great performance of Serbian guard Aleksandar Vlahovic who helped to win the game recording 24 points and 6 rebounds. American guard Darius Hargrove contributed with 18 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Zlatko Jovanovic replied with 20 points and 9 assists and Montenegrin guard Branko Cuic added 18 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for Timisoara. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures.
Zlatko Jovanovic averaged 16.2 points per game for BC Timisoara. Drasko Albijanic's stats read 8.6 points per game.


Igokea forces Game Five against Siroki WWin - by Eurobasket News

Finals, Game 4: Igokea - Siroki WWin 74-63 (2-2)

The Bosnian championship went down to a single game. Igokea managed to beat Siroki WWin last night 74-63 tying the score to 2-2 in the series. It means that Igokea forced decisive Game Five, which will be played on Sunday in Siroki Brijeg. Milos Komatina (205-FC-84) led the winners with 18 points and Filip Adamovic (182-PG-88) followed him with 13 pts. Marko Miletic (198-SG-92) helped the home squad with 12 points and 5 rebounds. At the other side, Fran Pilepic (192-G-89) delivered 20 points. Siroki also got 11 points from Darko Planinic (211-C-90) and 9 pts from the starting point guard Jakov Vladovic (186-PG-83). Quarters: 16-12, 30-16, 14-22, 14-13. Siroki WWin is the defending champion in Bosnia. It important to mention that both Siroki and Igokea already booked a spot for Adriatic league 2012/13.

Igokea: Milos Komatina 18, Filip Adamovic 13, Marko Miletic 12+5 boards
Siroki WWin: Fran Pilepic 20, Darko Planinic 11, Jakov Vladovic 9


Mirza Teletovic close to the New Jersey Nets! - by Chris Mathieu

Mirza Teletovic (206-F-85, agency: Beo Basket) close to the New Jersey Nets!
Basketball great Mirza Teletovic is said to have mutual interest signing with the New Jersey Nets. The owner of the Nets Mikhail Prokhorov is a big fan of Mirza and the front office of the Nets believe he would make a good fit with Deron Williams.
Mirza has been the best forward in Europe the last few years and has improved every season as a professional. From his dominating start with Sloboda Dita Tuzla scoring 27.5ppg as a 17 year old kid, to his time spent in Belgium and the last six seasons in Spain, Mirza has a proven track record of being a real professional. His is good enough of an athlete to play in the NBA and the skills to be a very good scorer for a quality team.
The question is will the money be enough to lure him from a comfortable situation in Spain where he is a star, to taking a chance on establishing himself as an NBA player. Mirza is a supreme competitor who would appear to be up to the challenge of establishing himself as a quality NBA player.
It is surprising he hasnt had a serious offer before now by an NBA franchise. He isnt the only Bosnian who should be drawing considerable interest by the NBA. Fellow Spanish league player Mirza Begic displays more than enough physical talent and skill to play 15-18 minutes on a quality NBA team.


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

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Aaron HARPER
  Levski S.
  (199-G/F-81)
  Avg: 20.6
 1. Harper, Levski S.20.6 
 2. Durchev, Tundja Y.18.4 
 3. Stankov, Spartak17.2 
 4. Yanev, Cherno More17.1 
 5. Pavlovski, Chernom.16.1 
 6. Govedarov, Tundja15.9 
 7. Ofoegbu, Tundja Y.15.9 
 8. Mirkovic, Rilski S.15.0 
 9. Vukosavljevi., Ril.14.9 
 10. Dunovic, Chernomo.14.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Kiril PAVLOVSKI
  Chernomo.
  (210-C-85)
  Avg: 9.8
 1. Pavlovski, Chernom.9.8 
 2. Evtimov, Levski So.9.7 
 3. Ofoegbu, Tundja Y.8.9 
 4. Yanev, Cherno More8.6 
 5. Gugino, Tundja Y.7.6 
 6. Todorov, Spartak6.8 
 7. Petkov, Tundja Y.6.1 
 8. Kolev, Cherno More5.9 
 9. Marintchechk., Bal.5.9 
 10. Sundov, Lukoil A.5.9 
Assists Per Game
 Brandon HEATH
  Lukoil A.
  (193-G-84)
  Avg: 5.8
 1. Heath, Lukoil A.5.8 
 2. Dyakovski, Sparta.5.8 
 3. Radionov, Tundja Y.5.0 
 4. Mirkovic, Rilski S.4.8 
 5. Aleksiev, Cherno M.4.3 
 6. Hall, Levski Sofia3.5 
 7. Howell, Levski Sof.3.4 
 8. Filipov, Balkan3.4 
 9. Avramov, Lukoil A.3.4 
 10. Durchev, Tundja Y.3.3 
Steals Per Game
 Brandon HEATH
  Lukoil A.
  (193-G-84)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Heath, Lukoil A.2.1 
 2. Radionov, Tundja Y.2.0 
 3. Roshmanov, Cherno.1.9 
 4. Harper, Levski S.1.9 
 5. Dunovic, Chernomo.1.8 
 6. Zahariev, Rilski S.1.8 
 7. Gugino, Tundja Y.1.8 
 8. Howell, Levski Sof.1.7 
 9. Marinov, Balkan1.7 
 10. Petkov, Tundja Y.1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Tony GUGINO
  Tundja Y.
  (207-C-86)
  Avg: 1.3
 1. Gugino, Tundja Y.1.3 
 2. Pavlovski, Chernom.1.0 
 3. Banev, Lukoil A.0.9 
 4. Ofoegbu, Tundja Y.0.9 
 5. Petkov, Tundja Y.0.8 
 6. Sundov, Lukoil A.0.8 
 7. Martin, Balkan0.7 
 8. Iliev, Cherno More0.6 
 9. Aleksov, Chernomo.0.6 
 10. Gocevski, Tundja0.6 


Lukoil Academik is one win away from the title - by Eurobasket News

NBL Finals, Game 2: Lukoil Academik - Levski Sofia 80-76 (2-0, best-of-five)

The hosts trailed by 3 points after three quarters before their 21-14 charge, which allowed them to win the game. The best player for the winners was guard Bozhidar Avramov (196-90, agency: Interperformances) who scored 18 points and 4 assists. American guard Brandon Heath (193-84, college: San Diego St.) chipped in 16 points and 5 rebounds. American swingman Aaron Harper (199-81, college: Mississippi, agency: Strategic Sports) produced 20 points (was perfect 7-for-7 from the free throw line) and his fellow American import guard Marcus Hall (185-85, college: Colorado) added 14 points and 5 assists respectively for the guests. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Levski Sofia's coach Konstantin Papazov tried various players' combinations and tested in total eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. Game Three is scheduled for Sunday and Levski will be the host.
Top scorers:
Lukoil Academik: B.Avramov 18+4reb+4ast, B.Heath 16+5reb+3ast, A.Owens 13+1reb, B.Sundov 12+7reb, L.Mack 8+3reb+1ast, D.Stojanovski 6+2reb
Levski Sofia: A.Harper 20+3reb+3ast, C.Kostov 14+4reb, M.Hall 14+1reb+5ast, D.Anguelov 10+3reb, S.Georgiev 6+3reb+2ast, V.Evtimov 4+8reb


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


Bryan Davis claims Chinese NBL weekly honour - by Eurobasket News

American Bryan Davis (206-F-86, agency: N.E.T.) put on an amazing game in the last round for Hebei and that's him to receive a Asia-basket.com NBL Player of the Week award for round 7.
The 25-year old forward had a double-double of 41 points and twenty two rebounds, while his team lost the game against Guangzhou FM (#5, 4-3) 95-105. Hebei was forced-out from the top positions in Chinese NBL. They would have been even better if they did not have these two lost games earlier in Regular Season. Hebei will need to avoid more loses keep or improve their 5-2 record. Davis just recently signed at Hebei, being already a very valuable addition to the team. Texas A&M University graduate has very impressive stats this year. Davis is in league's top in points (2nd best: 33.9ppg), rebounds (3rd best: 18.3rpg) and averages solid 2.4bpg,2.6spg and 60.7% FGP.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 25-year old American forward Walter Sharpe (206-F-86, agency: Two Points) of Guangzhou FM. Sharpe impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 38 points and 20 rebounds. Of course Guangzhou FM cruised to a 105-95 relatively comfortable win over slightly higher-ranked Hebei (#4, 5-2). Guangzhou FM's 5th position in the standings has not changed. His team lost some distance to top teams. But 4-3 record is not bad and everything may still change. Sharpe is one of the most experienced players at Guangzhou FM and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 31.1ppg (#4). He also registered 19.3 boards per game.

The third best performed player last round was Nigerian Kenny Adeleke (205-C-83) of Henan Jiyuan (#9). Adeleke got into 30-points club by scoring 32 points in the last round. He went also for fifteen rebounds and four assists. Despite Adeleke's great performance Henan Jiyuan lost 73-86 to the higher-ranked Hong Kong (#6, 4-3). But his team cannot count on just a single shooter as he also needs help of the other teammates. Henan Jiyuan can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have rather bad season and 1-6 record places them close to the bottom of the standings. Too bad for Adeleke he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Adeleke has individually a great season in China. After only 7 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 33.7ppg (3rd best) and rebounds with 20.3rpg (#1 in league).

Other top performing players last week:
4. MingHao Li (200-F-92) of Hong Kong - 30 points, 11 rebounds and 6 assists
5. Jarrid Famous (210-C/F-88) of Sichuan - 32 points, 16 rebounds and 7 assists
6. Rashaun Freeman (206-C/F-84) of Heilongjiang - 38 points and 14 rebounds
7. Julius Hodge (201-G-83) of Jiangsu - 26 points, 12 rebounds and 2 assists
8. Joseph Taylor (203-F-85) of Changan Group - 28 points and 11 rebounds
9. Hamady N'Diaye (213-C-87) of Guangzhou L. - 12 points and 8 rebounds
10. KaiFu Yao (196-G-83) of Guangzhou FM - 18 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists

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


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


COLOMBIAN MEN NATIONAL TEAM TO THE SUPER FOUR IN VENEZUELA - by Victor Garcia

Colombia National Team traveled today to Venezuela to play in the Super 4 tournament, a preparatory contest in the way to the upcoming Southamerican Championship.
The National Federation failed one more time to put togoether the best talent , and sent a team assembled mostly for players that belong to Liga de Antioquia and the Orgullo Paisa, players like Edgar Moreno are not confirmed within the roster, other players like JC Otero, Freddy Asprilla, Julian Pineda, Gerson Pena, Hanner Mosquera or Juan Tello Palacios were not officially invited to the team camp.
The load of the team will fall on Stalin Ortiz and Enielsen Guevara shoulders, Bacci , Perez , Renteria and Hernandez are also experienced back up in the team, Aguirre y Cuervo are part of the newcomers.

The roster for the Super 4 is the following:

Stalin Ortiz (63' G - Orgullo Paisa)
Gianluca Bacci (62' - Guerreros)
Eleuterio Renteria (64' F - Cucuta Norte)
Yuber Hinestroza (68' C - Orgullo Paisa)
Divier Perez (68' F/C - Orgullo Paisa)
Camilo Londono (62' G - Liga de Antioquia)
Deiby Aguirre (64' F - Orgullo Paisa)
John Hernandez (610' C - Bukaros)
Alvaro Contreras (6G - Orgullo Paisa)
Diego Cuervo (65' F - Orgullo Paisa)
Enielsen Guevara (69' F/C Marinos de Anzoategui)

Coach: Hernan Giraldo.




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


Cedevita eliminates Split, joins Cibona in the Finals - by Eurobasket News

Semifinals, Game 3: Cedevita - KK Split 96-70 (2-1)

Cedevita advanced to Croatian league Finals. They blasted Split last night 96-70 in decisive Game Three of the Semis and will meet Cibona in the battle for title. The format is best-of-five and first game is scheduled Saturday. Cibona was the regular season champion with perfect 14-0 record and they will have a home court advantage in the Finals. Second and third games are scheduled for May 29 and June 2. If necessary, teams will meet in Game Four and Five after that.
Cedevita forced Split to make 20 turnovers. 25 personal fouls committed by Split helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Forward Miro Bilan (213-F-89) led the winners with 17 points and 5 rebounds. Marko Car (188-85) added 15 points and 4 assists. Swingman Josip Sobin (203-89) answered with a double-double by scoring 14 points and 10 rebounds and the former international guard Srdan Subotic (193-80) added 16 points in the effort for Split. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed the bench players to play.
Defending champion Zagreb is out of the competition. They failed to reach the Playoffs.

Cedevita: M.Bilan 17+5reb, M.Car 15+4reb+4ast, I.Opacak 14+5reb, D.Draper 11+2reb+3ast, M.Bazdaric 10+2reb+4ast, D.Bagaric 8+6reb+2ast
KK Split: S.Subotic 16+4reb+3ast, I.Mimica 14+3reb, J.Sobin 14+10reb+2ast, T.Dijan 12+4reb+1ast, L.Babic 6+1ast, A.Grgurevic 3+2reb+1ast


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


Santa Cruz approves Wizards deal - by Eurobasket News

The clock has nearly run out on the Dakota Wizards. Early Wednesday morning the Santa Cruz City Council voted 7-0 to appropriate funds and finish a deal with parameters set forth that will result in the Wizards moving to the California community for the 2012-13 season.

The D-League must approve the relocation bid.

The terms of the agreement call for the city to loan the Golden State Warriors, who own the Wizards, $3.5 million to build a semi-permanent facility in Santa Cruz.

Kirk Lacob, who was recently promoted to assistant general manager of the Warriors, said the results of the vote, which was completed around 1:30 a.m. CST, was greeted with a standing ovation.

'On behalf of the Golden State Warriors organization, I'm proud of what we have accomplished thus far,' Lacob said. 'We are very excited about the (D-League) team's future in Santa Cruz and the opportunity to extend the reach of the Warriors' brand. We will continue to work hard and innovate to bring our fans new and exciting activities and give the Warriors the best chance to win on the court.

'We would again like to thank the city and fans in Bismarck for everything they accomplished and did for us and the team,' Lacob added. 'It will not be forgotten.'

Some of the details of the project, including the cost and seating capacity of the arena, have changed since the proposal was initially put together in April.

The core of the deal is the same, Lacob said. There could still be a couple of tweaks to be made, but the structure of the deal is in place.

Theres really no turning back from here,' Lacob said. '... (We) just need to finalize the terms into binding legal language.'

The last hurdle for the Warriors to clear is getting approval for the relocation from the D-League. Lacob says that the Warriors have been getting feedback from other teams and the league as the city evaluates the proposal. At this point getting D-League approval is little more than a formality, according to Lacob, and he expects that it will happen quickly.

Weve been dealing with the league the whole time, getting their tacit approval, Lacob said. They want to do things like make sure the facility will be up to standards and know how it is being seen by the local community. ... Their main concern is whether this will work for basketball, and weve shown them that every answer is yes.

The Wizards have been located in Bismarck since 1995 and are the second-oldest franchise currently operating in minor league basketball. The team has won four championships in three different leagues the International Basketball Association, the Continental Basketball Association, and the D-League.

The Warriors purchased the Wizards last June and immediately announced they would consider moving the team. The Wizards do have one more year remaining on their lease at the Bismarck Civic Center, but the buyout cost is only $40,000.

Coincidentally, the Warriors also announced Tuesday that they are planning to move the NBA club from Oakland to San Francisco in 2017, making it two potential franchise shifts in one day for the ownership group.

Courtesy of http://bismarcktribune.com


*****************************************************
  DOMINICAN REPUBLIC   


Fuenlabrada locks James Feldeine until 2015 - by Eurobasket News

James Feldeine (193-G-88, college: Quinnipiac) is a new member of Fuenlabrada. The American/Dominican guard signed a 3-year contract with the club. He will play for Fuenla as Cotonou due to his Dominican citizenship. Feldeine spent last two seasons with Breogan. In the latest one he had 17.7 ppg, 4.1 rpg and 1.7 for 38 games in LEB Gold. In 2010/11, Feldeine averaged 15.2 points, 3.1 rebounds and 1.5 assists in 41 games. It was his first season as a pro. James Feldeine is a product of Quinnipiac University, where he graduated two years ago. He had 16.5 ppg, 5.8 rpg and 2.5 apg for his school as a senior. James Feldeine was named Eurobasket.com All-Spanish LEB Gold 3rd Team -11. He will most probably be awarded for this season as well.


*****************************************************
  EUROCUP   


Lokomotiv Kuban chose Pashutin - by Uygar Karaca

Lokomotiv Kuban filled the gap left by Bozidar Maljkovic at head coach position with Evgeyi Pashutin according to sports.ru. Pashutin made UNICS Eurocup champion in 2010-2011 and lead them into Quarter Final Playoffs in the Euroleague where they were eventually knocked out by Barcelona. Previously, he worked with CSKA younger age groups and as a head coach for the senior team. Lokomotiv played at Eurocup Final Four last season as well as VTB United League and reached semifinals in the PBL League where they eventually finished at 3rd place. According to sports.ru and club president Andrey Vedischev, the reason for the departure is, the Slovenian head coach responsilibities of Maljkovic.


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


ProA Quarterfinals: First games - by Eurobasket News

First games of the ProA Quarterfinals are completed and home teams were almost perfect registering three wins. Gravelines, Orleans and Chalon outplayed their rivals at home, while the only team who managed to win as a guest was Nancy. The format is best-of-three and second games as scheduled for Friday and Saturday. Cholet, Paris-Levallois, Roanne and Nancy will be the hosts. If necessary, third games will be played next Tuesday. Nancy is the ProA defending champion from the last season. Gravelines was the regular season champ with 27-3 record.

Le Mans - Nancy 64-89 (0-1)
The game without a history. Sluc Nancy led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Naturalized Ivorian guard Pape-Philippe Amagou (185-85, agency: Beo Basket) nailed 20 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists for the winning side and American guard Jamal Shuler (191-86) accounted for 16 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Brazilian power forward Joao Paulo Batista (207-81, college: Gonzaga) came up with 20 points and 8 rebounds and American point guard Taylor Rochestie (185-85, college: Washington St.) added 10 points and 4 assists respectively for Le Mans in the defeat. Five Sluc Nancy and four Le Mans players scored in double figures. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next game.
Top scorers:
Nancy: P.Amagou 20+5reb+4ast, J.Shuler 16+5reb+4ast, A.Moerman 13+8reb+1ast, A.Akingbala 12+2reb+2ast, A.Kader Sylla 10+4reb, K.Grant 8+1reb+1ast
Le Mans: J.Paulo Batista 20+8reb+1ast, M.Sommerville 10+5reb+1ast, T.Rochestie 10+3reb+4ast, A.Acker 10+2reb+5ast, A.Koffi 8+4reb+1ast, T.Bryant 4+1reb
gschID: 176695


Chalon - Roanne 91-70 (1-0)
The game without a history. Chalon/Saor led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 48 of its points in the paint compared to Chorale de Roanne's 26 and made 22-of-26 free shots (84.6 percent) during the game, while Chorale de Roanne only scored two points from the stripe. Chalon/Saor forced 24 Chorale de Roanne turnovers and outrebounded them 32-20 including 22 on the defensive glass. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. American swingman Blake Schilb (200-83, college: Loyola, IL, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices) nailed 18 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists and 5 steals for the winning side and his fellow American import guard Malcolm Delaney (191-89, college: Virginia Tech) accounted for 14 points and 7 assists. Four Chalon/Saor players scored in double figures. American-Puerto Rican swingman John Holland (195-88, college: Boston U.) came up with 16 points and 5 rebounds and American forward Dylan Page (204-82, college: Wisc.-Milwaukee) added 14 points respectively for Chorale de Roanne in the defeat. 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 game.
Top scorers:
Chalon: B.Schilb 18+7reb+4ast, M.Delaney 14+3reb+7ast, A.Aminu 13+7reb+1ast, S.Tchicamboud 11+4reb+4ast, I.Evtimov 9+5reb+2ast, A.Michel Jean-Baptiste 8+2reb
Roanne: J.Holland 16+5reb+2ast, P.Braud 15+1reb+1ast, D.Page 14+4reb+1ast, A.Tanghe 9+2reb, R.Wright 5+5ast, M.Diabate 5+2reb+8ast
gschID: 176693


Orleans - Paris-Levallois 70-68 (1-0)
The hosts were ahead by 11 points but lost the second period ending it with a 1-point deficit before their 18-15 run, which allowed them to win the game. Entente Orleans 45 forced 19 Paris-Levallois turnovers. Strangely Paris-Levallois outrebounded Entente Orleans 45 44-26 including 29 on the defensive glass. Naturalized Mali forward Amara Sy (202-81) stepped up and scored 18 points for the winners and Senegalese forward Maleye N'Doye (203-80, college: Furman) chipped in 15 points. At the losing side American power forward Lamont Hamilton (208-84, college: St.John's) responded with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 16 rebounds and the other American import guard Eric Chatfield (191-79, college: N.Mexico) scored 14 points and 5 assists.
Top scorers:
Orleans: A.Sy 18+1reb+3ast, M.N'Doye 15+3reb, M.Pellin 8+2reb+5ast, G.Joseph 7+6reb+2ast, C.Banks 7+3reb+2ast, B.Greene 6+4reb+1ast
Paris-Levallois: L.Hamilton 15+16reb+1ast, E.Chatfield 14+2reb+5ast, M.Morandais 8+5reb, J.Williams 8+9reb+2ast, J.Aka 6+1reb, G.Oniangue 5+1ast
gschID: 176694


Gravelines - Cholet 76-73 (1-0)
The hosts trailed by 6 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 2-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 76-73. Strangely Cholet outrebounded Gravelines-Dunkerque 43-28 including 29 on the defensive glass. Worth to mention a great performance of the former international guard Yannick Bokolo (190-85) who helped to win the game recording 8 points and 5 assists. International point guard Andrew Albicy (178-90) contributed with 14 points for the winners. Gravelines-Dunkerque's coach Christian Monschau used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. American forward Randal Falker (201-85, college: S.Illinois) answered with 14 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists and the other American import forward Robert Dozier (206-85, college: Memphis) added 17 points and 9 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) in the effort for Cholet.
Top scorers:
Gravelines: A.Albicy 14+2reb, J.Edwards 11+2reb+2ast, L.Vaty 10+4reb, P.Sy 9+2reb, Y.Bokolo 8+3reb+5ast, D.Issa 8+3reb+3ast
Cholet: R.Dozier 17+9reb+2ast, R.Falker 14+9reb+5ast, W.Gradit 14+3reb, P.Christopher 11+3reb, D.Nelson 7+6reb+5ast, F.Causeur 6+2reb+8ast


Antibes keeps C Moussa Badiane - by Eurobasket News

Olympique d'Antibes Basket announced signing of a one-year contract extension with Moussa Badiane (205-C-81, college: E.Carolina). The French/Senegalese center joined Antibes in January this year. He appeared 18 times in ProB averaging 11.7 points, 6.3 rebounds and 1.4 assists. Badiane started the season with Nancy. He had 3.4 ppg and 1.6 rpg for 8 Euroleague games with them. In ProA, Badiane averaged less than a point in 11 games. The center played for Nancy also in 2010/11 season and they won the ProA title together. Before that, he was a member of Maurienne, Chalon and Clermont. In 2010, Moussa Badiane was Eurobasket.com All-French ProB Center of the Year -10. Badiane is a product of the East Carolina University, where he graduated in 2005.


ProB Quarterfinals: First games - by Eurobasket News

Visiting teams grabbed two wins in first games of the ProB Quarterfinals. Bordeaux and Evreux celebrated on the road, while Boulazac and Maurienne outplayed their rivals at home. The format is best-of-three and second games are scheduled for Friday and Saturday. Boulogne, Evreux, Bordeaux and Fos Ouest will be the hosts. If necessary, third games will be played on Tuesday (May 29). Limoges was the regular season champion in ProB with 27-7 record and they already won the promotion to ProA. One more ticket is available and it will belong to the Playoff winner.

Maurienne - Fos Ouest 84-75 (1-0)
The hosts were already 12 points ahead after 3 quarters before a 25-22 Fos Ouest's run in the last quarter cut the lead to 84-75 at the end of the game. Worth to mention a great performance of American-DR Congolese power forward Bambale Osby (203-86, college: Maryland) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 18 points and 12 rebounds. point guard Simon Darnauzan (178-80) contributed with 18 points and 6 assists for the winners. Osby is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Five Aix-Maurienne players scored in double figures. Aix-Maurienne's coach Antoine Michon allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. American Bill Clark (195-88, college: Duquesne) answered with 17 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists and Jamaican-American Sherman Gay (201-82, college: Loyola Mary) added 13 points and 10 rebounds in the effort for Fos Ouest.
Top scorers:
Maurienne: S.Darnauzan 18+1reb+6ast, B.Osby 18+12reb+2ast, D.Tucker 12+3reb, W.Brown 12+8reb+1ast, J.Ekanga-Ehawa 11+2reb+1ast, M.Houmounou 6+4reb
Fos Ouest: B.Clark 17+7reb+6ast, S.Gay 13+10reb+1ast, R.Roby 10+1reb+1ast, M.Dia 9+1reb, S.Giffa 7+4reb, P.Haquet 7+4reb+3ast
gschID: 176689


Chalons-Reims - Bordeaux 71-79 (0-1)
The guests trailed by 5 points after three quarters before their 25-12 charge, which allowed them to win the game. American guard O'Darien Bassett (191-86, college: Troy) fired 23 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. point guard Gauthier Darrigand (184-82) chipped in 14 points and 4 assists. Swingman Rodrigue Mels (188-85, college: CS Northridge, agency: Court Side) produced 20 points and 4 steals and American Chris Daniels (200-82, college: Georgia, agency: Limelight Hoops) added 11 points and 9 rebounds respectively for lost side. Four Chalons-Reims players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Bordeaux: O.Bassett 23+6reb+3ast, G.Darrigand 14+1reb+4ast, S.Driss 11+5reb+3ast, J.Nzeulie 10+3reb+2ast, B.Elisabeth-Mesnager 9+6reb+1ast, J.Ford 8+10reb+1ast
Chalons-Reims: R.Mels 20+3reb+1ast, G.Chathuant 14, C.Daniels 11+9reb, N.Carter 11+2reb+1ast, B.Mullins 5+3reb+3ast, K.Corre 4+6reb+5ast
gschID: 176690


Limoges - Evreux 67-72 (0-1)
The guests took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 23-15. But Limoges CSP Elite won second period 15-9. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Steeve Ho You Fat (203-88) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 19 points and 10 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) for the winners and American power forward Jeremiah Wood (200-85, agency: Court Side) chipped in 10 points and 10 rebounds. Five ALM Evreux players scored in double figures. At the losing side American guard Kyle McAlarney (185-87, college: Notre Dame) responded with 18 points and 5 assists and the former international guard Joseph Gomis (180-78) scored 15 points.
Top scorers:
Evreux: S.Ho You Fat 19+10reb+2ast, A.Rowland 17+1reb+3ast, G.Costentin 11+1reb+1ast, J.Wood 10+10reb+3ast, D.Reed 10+5reb+1ast, L.Konate 5+2reb+3ast
Limoges: K.McAlarney 18+5ast, J.Gomis 15+3reb+3ast, R.Desroses 9+5reb+1ast, C.Massie 9+6reb+2ast, A.Curti 5+1ast, N.Boungou Colo 3+1reb+2ast
gschID: 176691


Boulazac - Boulogne 75-73 (1-0)
The hosts started the game with a very strong first quarter 25-16. But SO Maritime Boulogne won second period 19-18. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Americans were the main players on the court. Power forward Darryl Monroe (202-86, college: George Mason, agency: Two Points) nailed a double-double by scoring 23 points, 14 rebounds and 6 assists (on 9-of-10 shooting from the field) for the winning side and Amadi McKenzie (201-86) accounted for 14 points and 6 rebounds. Swingman Chris McCray (196-84, college: Maryland, agency: VVG Sports) came up with 20 points and Corey Rouse (204-84, college: E.Carolina, agency: Court Side) added 11 points and 7 rebounds respectively for SO Maritime Boulogne in the defeat. Four SO Maritime Boulogne players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Boulazac: D.Monroe 23+14reb+6ast, A.McKenzie 14+6reb+1ast, A.Kerckhof 8+2reb+5ast, R.Ayers 8+3reb, T.Dubiez 5+2reb, K.Morlende 5+2reb+2ast
Boulogne: C.McCray 20+3reb+2ast, T.Stanley 12+2reb, C.Rouse 11+7reb, F.Raposo Laurencio 11+4reb, J.Mathis 6+6reb, J.Rousselle 6+1reb+3ast
gschID: 176688



Challans lands American F Matthew Pilgrim - by Eurobasket News

Vendee Challans Basket signed its first player for the next season. The team inked deal with American forward Matthew Pilgrim (203-F-87, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: Oklahoma St.). The 24-year-old player started last season with Turkish club Gamateks Pamukkale Universitesi. He shined there with 17.8 ppg and 10.3 rpg for 19 games in TB2L. They parted ways in January this year and Pilgrim missed rest of the season. Matthew Pilgrim graduated a year ago at the Oklahoma State University. He had 5.4 ppg and 5.7 rpg for his school as a senior. The player transferred to Oklahoma State in 2009 from Kentucky. He arrived to Kentucky in 2008 from Hampton, but was forced to miss one season due to NCAA rules. Pilgrim was named MEAC All-Rookie Team in 2007 and Big 12 All-Newcomer Team in 2010.


Hyeres-Toulon Var Basket hires Jean-Aime Toupane as new Head Coach - by Eurobasket News

Hyeres-Toulon Var Basket got a new Head Coach. The team hired Jean-Aime Toupane for the next two years. Laurent Legname will serve as Assistant Coach. The team will compete next season in ProB and currently has only two players under the contract.
Jean-Aime Toupane most recently worked with the French U20 National Team. They reached Semifinals last summer at U20 EuroBasket in Bilbao. In 2010, Toupane guided U20 France to Gold medal at U20 EuroBasket in Croatia. He was named the Best Coach of the championship. In 2009, Toupane won the Silver at U20 EuroBasket in Rhodes. In the past, he coached Pau-Orthez and spent several years with Clermont. Toupane was named Eurobasket All-French ProB Coach of the Year -04.


Antibes signs 2-year deal with Shaun Fein - by Eurobasket News

Shaun Fein (191-G-78, college: Georgia Tech) will continue his career in Antibes. The experienced guard signed a two-year deal with the club. Fein arrives from Hyeres-Toulon Var Basket, where he spent last two seasons. He had 12.3 ppg, 2 rpg and 1.5 apg for 13 ProA games in the latest one. The guard registered lower digits in his first season with Hyeres-Toulon. Shaun Fein has nice experience from ProB as he played couple of years in this competition. In his latest ProB season he had 15.8 ppg, 4.6 apg and 2.6 rpg for 9 games Fos Ouest. It was in 2009/10. Before that, Fein was a member of Saint-Quentin, Pau-Orthez, Quimper, Reims, Evreux and Nantes. In 2007, Shaun Fein was named Eurobasket.com All-French ProB 1st Team -07. He played for Quimper at that time.


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


Stojanovski Vojdan paces BC Donetsk to the title - by Eurobasket News

FYR Macedonian Vojdan Stojanovski (193-G-87) paces BC Donetsk to the title in Ukraine. He scored 17 points to lead the winners in the last game tonight.
The fourth game of the series started as a heated battle. The teams stayed close throughout the opening quarter. BC Donetsk eked out a 24:23 lead after ten minutes. But the hosts struck right back in the second quarter. They unleashed 28 points in the period to establish a 51:32 halftime lead. However BC Donetsk refused to surrender. The visitors knocked down 28 points in the third term to narrow the margin. The visitors cut the distance to 10 points with one quarter remaining. BC Donetsk went on a 15:2 run early in the final frame to surge ahead. Othello Hunter levelled things up but Ivan Radenovic drained a three-pointer and Vojdan Stojanovski added two points from the stripe to seal the victory for the visitors. Ivan Radenovic posted 16 points, while Vule Avdalovic and Viacheslav Kravtsov contributed 12 points each for the winners. Matt Walsh answered with 21 points for Azovmash. Radoslav Rancik had 18 points, 6 assists and 3 boards in the loss.
Vojdan Stojanovski started the season 2011-2012 for SK Cherkasy Monkeys (Ukraine-Superleague, starting five), but in Jan.'12 moved to BC Donetsk (Ukraine-Superleague, starting five). In EuroCup he averaged 6.7ppg, 1.0rpg, 1.4spg, FGP: 61.1%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 80.0%, while in the Ukrainian League had 11.0 points per game.


*****************************************************
  GEORGIA   


Eurobasket.com All-Georgian League Awards 2011-2012 - by Geo Basket

Eurobasket.com All-Georgian League 1st Team 2012
#s#
Jeremy Richardson
Richardson
Ben Woodside
Woodside
Georgi Tsintsadze
Tsintsadze
Will Thomas
Thomas
Joakim Kjellbom
Kjellbom
#e#5

Player of the Year: Jeremy Richardson (200-G/F-84) of Armia
Guard of the Year: Ben Woodside (180-PG-85) of Armia
Forward of the Year: Will Thomas (203-PF-86) of Armia
Center of the Year: Joakim Kjellbom (213-C/F-79) of Armia
Most Improved Player of the Year: Duda Sanadze (196-G/F-92) of Dinamo Tbilisi
Bosman Player of the Year: Joakim Kjellbom (213-C/F-79) of Armia
Import Player of the Year: Jeremy Richardson (200-G/F-84) of Armia
Domestic Player of the Year: Georgi Tsintsadze (192-G-86) of Olimpi
Newcomer of the Year: Larry Blair (183-G-84) of MIA Academy
Rookie of the Year: Keyon Carter (203-F-88) of Dinamo Tbilisi
Defensive Player of the Year: Giorgi Gamqrelidze (183-G-86) of Olimpi
Coach of the Year: Kote Tugushi of Armia

1st Team
PG: Ben Woodside (180-85) of Armia
G: Georgi Tsintsadze (192-86) of Olimpi
G/F: Jeremy Richardson (200-84) of Armia
PF: Will Thomas (203-86) of Armia
C/F: Joakim Kjellbom (213-79) of Armia

2nd Team
G: Giorgi Gamqrelidze (183-86) of Olimpi
SG: Guillermo Diaz (188-85) of Armia
F: Mikheil Berishvili (205-87) of Olimpi
F: Keyon Carter (203-88) of Dinamo Tbilisi
C: Milan Oluic (210-84) of Dinamo Tbilisi

3rd Team
G: Beka Tsivtsivadze (190-89) of Dinamo Tbilisi
G: Lasha Parghalava (191-87) of Sokhumi
G: Levan Patsatsia (198-88) of Sokhumi
F: Tracy Smith (203) of MIA Academy
C: Richard Matiashvili (209-89) of Kutaisi

Honorable Mention
Justin Tubbs (190-G-87) of MIA Academy
Levan Tsekvava (190-G-89) of Kutaisi
Rezo Didia (203-F-87) of Kutaisi
Ivan Todorovic (214-C/F-84) of Olimpi
Beqa Chikviladze (195-G-91) of TSU Tbilisi

All-Domestic Players Team
G: Giorgi Gamqrelidze (183-86) of Olimpi
G: Georgi Tsintsadze (192-86) of Olimpi
F: Mikheil Berishvili (205-87) of Olimpi
F: Rezo Didia (203-87) of Kutaisi
C: Richard Matiashvili (209-89) of Kutaisi

All-Imports Team
PG: Ben Woodside (180-85) of Armia
G: Larry Blair (183-84) of MIA Academy
G/F: Jeremy Richardson (200-84) of Armia
F: Keyon Carter (203-88) of Dinamo Tbilisi
PF: Will Thomas (203-86) of Armia

All-Bosmans Team
SG: Joshua Jackson (189-85) of Sokhumi
G: Nikica Sljuka (187-87) of Olimpi
F: Aleksandar Zecevic (201-75) of Dinamo Tbilisi
F: Darko Cohadarevic (206-86) of Kutaisi
C/F: Joakim Kjellbom (213-79) of Armia


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

Stats Leaders - 1.Bundesliga

Points Per Game
 Bobby BROWN
  EWE Baskets
  (188-G-84)
  Avg: 16.9
 1. Brown, EWE Baskets16.9 
 2. Tucker, Brose B.16.2 
 3. Holston, Art.Drag.15.6 
 4. Swann, Ratiopharm15.3 
 5. Wood, ALBA15.0 
 6. Jonusas, Phoenix14.8 
 7. Ensminger, Teleko.14.8 
 8. Bryant, Ratiopharm14.6 
 9. Homan, B.Muenchen14.5 
 10. Carter, Phoenix14.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 John BRYANT
  Ratiopharm
  (208-C-87)
  Avg: 9.3
 1. Bryant, Ratiopharm9.3 
 2. Chubb, EWE Baskets8.5 
 3. Homan, B.Muenchen7.8 
 4. Ensminger, Teleko.7.3 
 5. Tucker, Brose B.7.2 
 6. Zirbes, TBB Trier7.1 
 7. Troutman, B.Mue.7.0 
 8. Evans, Goettingen6.6 
 9. Watts, Ratiopharm6.5 
 10. Ovcina, LTi 46ers6.5 
Assists Per Game
 Jared JORDAN
  Telekom .
  (188-PG-84)
  Avg: 8.2
 1. Jordan, Telekom8.2 
 2. Holston, Art.Drag.5.7 
 3. Brewer, Bremerha.5.1 
 4. Everett, Bremerha.4.9 
 5. Wood, ALBA4.8 
 6. Brown, EWE Baskets4.7 
 7. Hamann, B.Muenchen4.5 
 8. Joyce, TBB Trier4.4 
 9. Campbell, Walter T.4.1 
 10. Bauscher, Goett.3.9 
Steals Per Game
 Nate LINHART
  TBB Trier
  (201-F-86)
  Avg: 1.7
 1. Linhart, TBB Trier1.7 
 2. Kramer, s.Oliv.1.4 
 3. Gibson, Fraport SKY1.4 
 4. Bernard, LTi 46ers1.4 
 5. Redding, Walter T.1.4 
 6. Trice, Ratiopharm1.4 
 7. Dorris, EnBW L.1.4 
 8. Carter, Phoenix1.3 
 9. Gaffney, Teleko.1.3 
 10. Holston, Art.Drag.1.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Tony GAFFNEY
  Teleko.
  (204-F-84)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Gaffney, Teleko.1.8 
 2. Davidson, Fraport1.7 
 3. Ibekwe, Bayreuth1.6 
 4. Looby, EnBW L.1.6 
 5. Homan, B.Muenchen1.5 
 6. Pleiss, Brose B.1.4 
 7. Bryant, Ratiopharm1.3 
 8. King, Art.Dragons1.1 
 9. Slaughter, Brose B.1.1 
 10. Constantine, Phoe.0.9 


German National Team 2012 - by Eurobasket Center

German National Team 2012
#s#
Robin Benzing
Benzing
Bastian Doreth
Doreth
Niels Giffey
Giffey
Per Guenther
Guenther
Steffen Hamann
Hamann
#e#5
Robin Benzing 208-F-89 B.Muenchen Germany
Bastian Doreth 183-G-89 B.Muenchen Germany
Niels Giffey 200-G/F-91 Connecticut USA
Per Guenther 185-G-88 Ratiopharm Germany
Steffen Hamann 194-G-81 B.Muenchen Germany
Elias Harris 200-F-89 Gonzaga USA
Patrick Heckmann 195-G-92 Boston Coll. USA
Yassin Idbihi 208-F-83 ALBA Germany
Jan-Hendrik Jagla 213-PF-81 B.Muenchen Germany
Maximilian Kleber 196-F-92 s.Oliver Baskets Germany
Mathis Monninghoff 200-F-92 Gonzaga USA
Philipp Neumann 210-C-92 Brose Baskets Germany
Tim Ohlbrecht 211-C/F-88 Fraport SKY Germany
Tibor Pleiss 214-F/C-89 Brose Baskets Germany
Heiko Schaffartzik 182-G-84 ALBA Germany
Philipp Schwethelm 201-F-89 B.Muenchen Germany
Lucca Staiger 196-G-88 ALBA Germany
Karsten Tadda 189-G-88 Brose Baskets Germany
Daniel Theis 207-C-92 NY Phantoms Germany
Maik Zirbes 205-C-90 TBB Trier Germany
Philip Zwiener 198-F-85 TBB Trier Germany

Svetislav Pesic Head Coach Crvena Zvezda Serbia



Ratiopharm and Brose Baskets won second Semi-Finals - by Eurobasket News

s.Oliver Baskets - Ratiopharm 74-82 (0-2)

The guests started the game with a very strong first quarter 29-20. But s Oliver Baskets won third quarter 21-19. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. s Oliver Baskets were plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. American center John Bryant (208-87, college: Santa Clara) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 16 rebounds. International guard Per Guenther (185-88) contributed with 25 points for the winners. American power forward Jason Boone (198-85, college: New York U.) replied with 15 points and 9 rebounds and his fellow American import guard Chris Kramer (191-88, college: Purdue) added 10 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists in the effort for s Oliver Baskets. Four s Oliver Baskets players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
s.Oliver Baskets: J.Little 15+4reb+2ast, J.Boone 15+9reb+1ast, B.Jacobson 10+4reb+3ast, C.Kramer 10+7reb+4ast, R.Harris 9+3reb, I.Elliott 8+7reb
Ratiopharm: P.Guenther 25+3reb+2ast, J.Bryant 16+16reb+1ast, K.Nankivil 8+4reb, D.Watts 8+7reb+4ast, T.Mason-Griffin 8+1reb, S.Betz 7+3reb+1ast
gschID: 176755


Art.Dragons - Brose Baskets 71-81 (0-2)

The game was mostly controlled by Brose Baskets. Artland Dragons managed to win third quarter 22-13. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. 26 personal fouls committed by Artland Dragons helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was American forward Anthony Leon Tucker (198-85, college: Texas) who had a double-double by scoring 23 points and 10 rebounds. The other American import swingman Casey Jacobsen (198-81, college: Stanford) chipped in 14 points. American guard David Holston (170-86, college: Chicago St.) produced 20 points and 6 assists and American-Puerto Rican forward Nathan Peavy (203-85, college: Miami, OH) added 11 points and 9 rebounds respectively for the hosts. Artland Dragons' coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
Art.Dragons: D.Holston 20+4reb+6ast, N.Peavy 11+9reb+2ast, B.Thomas 11+3reb+1ast, A.King 9+4reb+2ast, B.Bailey 8+3reb+1ast, A.Hilliard 7+3reb+2ast
Brose Baskets: A.Leon Tucker 23+10reb+1ast, C.Jacobsen 14+3reb+1ast, B.Roberts 13+1reb+3ast, J.Jenkins 9+3reb+2ast, T.Pleiss 8+4reb, A.Gavel 6+4reb+5ast
gschID: 176754



Pilipp Zwiener Headed To The Eisbaeren Bremerhaven - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

According to Radio Bremen and www.suddeutsche.de German national player Philip Zwiener (198-F-85) will be play in northern Germany next season with the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven. Zwiener played for TBB Trier the last two seasons playing a total of 61 games. Last season he averaged 12,3ppg, 4,2rpg and 1,7apg while playing in 31 games avergaing 27 minutes per game. The German national player started his basketball career in 2002 for TSV Lesum-Bremen (2Bundesliga) where he played until 2005. He then played for 8 time Beko BBL champion Alba Berlin from 2005-2010 playing a total of 87 Beko BBL games. He also played 15 ULEB Cup games and 4 Eurocup games for Alba Berlin. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been German 1.Bundesliga Rookie All-Star Game -04, German U20 National Team -04-05, All-Douai Tournament First Team -04, German U18 National Team -04German Rookie All-Stars Game -05, European Championships U20 in Moscow -05 (Eurobasket.com All-Tournament Honorable Mention): 8 games: 12.0ppg, 7.0rpg, 1.4apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 42.1%, 3FGP: 28.6%, FT: 66.7%, Eurobasket.com All-German 2.Bundesliga Most Improved Player of the Year -05, Eurobasket.com German 2.Bundesliga All-Domestic Players Team -05, German Bundesliga Cup Winner -06, 09, German Bundesliga Regular Season Champion -06, 08, 09, German Bundesliga Finalist -06, German A2 National Team -06-07German University National Team -07, World University Championships in Bangkok -07, German Bundesliga Cup Semifinals -08, German Bundesliga Champion -08German National Team -08-09, 11-12, Olympic Games in Beijing (China) -08: 2 games: 1.0ppg, 1.0rpg, 1.0apg, German Bundesliga Semifinals -09
EuroCup Finalist -10, German Bundesliga Regular Season Runner-Up -10, German Bundesliga All-Star Game -11, 12, and Eurobasket.com German Bundesliga All-Domestic Players Team -11


The EWE Baskets Oldenburg Keep Robin Smeulders - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber


The Walter Tigers Tuebingen have been the example keeping players from last season and the EWE Baskets are also planning for the future with keeping a healthy core from last seasons non playoff club by keeping Robin Smeulders (208-F-87, agency: Court Side, college: Portland) on board being the fifth player to do so. Robin Smeulders (208-F-87, agency: Court Side, college: Portland) is a 24 year old 208cm forward with the German/Dutch passport that will be playing his third season in Oldenburg. Last season, he played EuroChallenge: 7 games: 4.3ppg, 4.3rpg and in te Beko BBL 25 games averaging 4,5ppg and 3,9rpg in 15,1 minutes per game. 'We want him to become a name in the league with his rebound and versatile offense game', stressed EWE Baskets Oldenburg head coach Sebastian Machowski.

Source: EWE Baskets Oldenburg


Bjoern Harmsen Leaves The LTi Giessen 46ers - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Being a fan of the LTi Giessen 46ers hasnt been easy in the last years as the team has spent more time at the bottom of the Beko BBL standings then Lady Gaga at the top of the worldwide music charts. Since the spectacular 2005 semi final run of Giessen where Stefan Koch was coach, the club hasnt had much success and will go into next season without head coach Bjoern Harmsen . Harmsen who had coached Science City jena and MBC in the last years came to Giessen with a lot of hope, but was unable to get success as the team finished in 17th place with a record of 9-25. Today the club announced that both parties had agreed to a termination of his contract. 'The decision to go wasnt easy to make. It was a lot of fun to work for the LTi Giessen 46ers. I wish the club the best and hope that there will be BBL basketball in the Sporthalle Giessen-Ost next season. I want to thank the fans for the great support and the organization for a very professional working atmosphere', stressed Bjoern Harmsen .

Source: Lti Giessen 46ers


*****************************************************
  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. Gagaloudis, Marousi15.6 
 4. Charalampidi., KAO.15.6 
 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. Ceranic, KAOD5.7 
 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. Xanthopoulos, Pani.4.6 
 4. Diamantidis, Panat.4.5 
 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. Thompson, Ilysi.1.7 
 4. Xanthopoulos, Pani.1.7 
 5. Christmas, AGOR1.6 
 6. Calathes, Panathin.1.6 
 7. Gagaloudis, Marousi1.5 
 8. Hatten, Kolossos1.5 
 9. Dorsey, Olympiacos1.5 
 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, Olympiacos1.1 
 6. Michel, KAOD0.9 
 7. Vougioukas, Panat.0.9 
 8. Stepheson, Panio.0.9 
 9. Dorsey, Olympiacos0.8 
 10. Giddens, PAOK0.7 


Eurobasket.com All-Greek A2 Awards 2011-12 - by Chris Mammides

Eurobasket.com All-Greek A2 1st Team 2011-2012
#s#
Nikos Argyropoylos
Argyropoylos
Spyros Magounis
Magounis
Andronikos Gizogiannis
Gizogiannis
Filipp Simeonidis
Simeonidis
Vaggelis Sklavos
Sklavos
#e#5

Player of the Year: Nikos Argyropoylos (188-G-78) of Apollon Patras
Guard of the Year: Spyros Magounis (200-G-85) of Panelefsiniakos
Forward of the Year: Andronikos Gizogiannis (200-F/C-83) of Arkadikos
Center of the Year: Vaggelis Sklavos (202-F-77) of AEK
Most Improved Player of the Year: Giannis Dimakos (194-G-94) of Pagrati
Bosman Player of the Year: Alex Stevovic (191-G-90) of AEK/Argous
Domestic Player of the Year: Nikos Argyropoylos (188-G-78) of Apollon Patras
Newcomer of the Year: Antonis Mantzaris (196-G-86) of AEK
Co-Rookie of the Year: Dionisios Kapiniaris (185-G-91) of Perama Ermis
Co-Rookie of the Year: Dimitris Chilaris (206-F-90) of Amyntas Dafnis
Defensive Player of the Year: Darrel Lewis (192-G-76) of OFI
Coach of the Year: Giorgos Skarafingas of Panelefsiniakos

1st Team
G: Spyros Magounis (200-85) of Panelefsiniakos
G: Nikos Argyropoylos (188-78) of Apollon Patras
F/C: Andronikos Gizogiannis (200-83) of Arkadikos
F: Filipp Simeonidis (204-80) of Ikaroi Serron
F: Vaggelis Sklavos (202-77) of AEK

2nd Team
G: Leonidas Zoupas (182-82) of Amyntas Dafnis
G: Giannis Kiriakopoulos (175-96) of Olympionikis
F/G: Vladimir Petrovic-Stergiou (198-77) of Apollon Patras
F: Christos Deligiannis (204-84) of Panelefsiniakos
C: Ivan Krolo (217-83) of Apollon Patras

3rd Team
G: Kostas Totsios (191-78) of Ikaroi Serron
G: Fotis Vasilopoulos (187-86) of AEK
G: Savvas Iliadis (192-79) of Ermis Lagkada
F: Nikos Psileas (200-80) of Lavrio
F: Giannis Kakiouzis (205-78) of Lavrio

Honorable Mention
Andreas Sizopoulos (189-G-83) of OFI
Nikos Kourtis (195-F-77) of Panerythraikos
Dimitris Katiakos (205-C/F-87) of OFI

All-Bosmans Team
C: Ivan Krolo (217-83) of Apollon Patras
G: Darrel Lewis (192-76) of OFI
F: Marko Milicevic (204-82) of Perama Ermis
F: Predrag Kosanovic (203-76) of Arkadikos
G: Alex Stevovic (191-90) of AEK/Argous

All-Defensive Team
Savas Nikitakis (184-G-76) of Nea Kifisia
Thodoris Tsiotras (198-G-87) of Arkadikos
Spyros Magounis (200-G-85) of Panelefsiniakos
Dimitris Lyberis (190-G-93) of Apollon Patras
Stavros Toutziarakis (210-C-87) of OFI


Greens beat Reds in Game Two, 81-79 (1-1) - by Eurobasket News

FINAL
Game 2: Panathinaikos - Olympiakos 81-79 (1-1)

Second game of the Greek league Finals between Panathinaikos and Olympiakos just ended. The Greens grabbed 81-79 victory tying the score to 1-1 in the series. The format is best-of-five and Game Three is scheduled for Sunday. Olympiakos will be the host.
The hosts trailed by 3 points at the halftime before their 29-18 charge in the third quarter, which helped them later to win the game. Panathinaikos made 23-of-29 free shots (79.3 percent) tonight. 26 personal fouls committed by Olympiakos helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Dimitris Diamantidis (196-80) orchestrated the victory by scoring 23 points and 4 assists. Kostas Kaimakoglou (206-83) contributed with a double-double of 11 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. American forward Kyle Hines (198-86) replied with 18 points and Kostas Papanikolaou (204-90) added 11 points and 9 rebounds in the effort for Olympiacos. Four Olympiakos players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game.
Teams will meet later on May 30 and if necessary on June 2. PAO is the defending champion. However, Olympiakos was the regular season champ and it has a home court advantage in this series. If it goes to Game Five, Olympiakos will be the host.

Panathinaikos: D.Diamantidis 23+2reb+4ast, K.Kaimakoglou 11+10reb+1ast, M.Batiste 11+7reb+2ast, S.Jasikevicius 8+1reb+3ast, S.Perperoglou 7+4reb+1ast, S.Smith 4+6reb
Olympiakos: K.Hines 18+3reb, K.Papanikolaou 11+9reb, V.Spanoulis 10+4reb+5ast, G.Printezis 10+3reb, M.Gecevicius 8+1reb+1ast, J.Dorsey 7+4reb


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


Damian Hollis will play one more season with Albacomp - by Tamas Deri

The management of Albacomp just published today, that american forward Damian Hollis (203-F-88, agency: Two Points, college: G.Washington) signed his new contract with the club and will play in Szekesfehervar in the coming season! The 203 cm tall all-around forward used to be a member of the U19 National Team of USA and won the silver medal with the team in Serbia in 2007. Hollis graduated on the University of George Washington in 2009 and had a great senior season averaging 13.9ppg, 4.9rpg, 1.2apg. He signed his first professional contract with VOO Verviers-Pepinster in Belgium, but left the team during the pre-season and moved to Hungary, where he played his first european season with Albacomp averaging 12.5ppg, 6.1rpg, 1.0apg, 1.5spg and helping his team to reach the 2nd place of the Hungarian Cup and Championship. This season Hollis put up 15.7 points, 5.6 rebounds and 1.2 assist in 27.0 minutes per game.


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


Bellingham's Hafford earns Player of the Week honor - by Eurobasket News

After scoring 35 points in a victory over the Edmonton Energy and helping the Bellingham Slam improve to a league-leading 7-1 record, guard Paul Hafford (6'4''-G-84, college: Portland St.) has been chosen as the International Basketball League's Player of the Week for week six of the 2012 season.

In Friday's 112-107 win over the Edmonton Energy, Hafford pitched in 35 points on 13-of-20 field goal shooting, including four treys, and also added nine rebounds and four steals. The 6-foot-4 guard is now ranked third in the IBL in scoring - averaging 23.2 points per game through eight contests - and eighth in steals with 2 per game. With a 43.5 shooting percentage from three-point range on the season, Hafford is enjoying one of his best seasons of his six year IBL career and has helped pace the Slam to a six game winning streak.

Hafford, a native of Lynden, Wash., played collegiately at Portland State University before joining the IBL with the Central Oregon Hotshots in 2007. In 2008, he came home to suit up with the Bellingham Slam, helping lead the team to the IBL Championship and coming away with co-MVP honors in the title game. In addition to his time in the IBL, he has also played overseas in Romania, Norway and China.

Bellingham is the first team to have two of its players earn the IBL's Player of the Week honors, after center Blake Poole took home the award two weeks ago.

Coming off last Friday's victory over Edmonton, Hafford and the Slam look to extend their winning streak this weekend as they host a pair of home games at Whatcom Pavilion, versus the Olympia Reign on Friday at 7pm and the Japan Tornadoes on Monday at 5pm.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com


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


Iran NT camp - by Mohammad Amin Maghsoodlou

25 players invited to Iran senior NT camp. Iran team preparing for WABA championship that will take placed in Jordan next month.

Roster :
1- Hamed Haddadi (218-C-85)
2- Amir Sedighi (203-F-93)
3- Samad Nik Khahbahrami (198-F-83)
4- Hamed Afagh (190-G-83)
5- Mahdi Kamrani (185-PG-82)
6- Farid Aslani (183-PG-88)
7- Mousa Nabipour (213-C-83)
8- Rouzbeh Arghavan (213-F/C-88)
9- Reza Lotfi (191-G/F-83)
10- Mohammad Hassanzadeh (202-F-90)
11- Ali Baheran (186-G-86)
12- Hamed Sohrabnejad (205-C/F-83)
13- Mohammad Khabazan (190-G-85)
14- Arsalan Kazemi (200-F-90)
15- Mohammad Reza Akbari Bisheh (196-F/G-86)
16- Asghar Kardoust (212-C-86)
17- Javad Davari (185-G-83)
18- Mohammad Zarei

19- Majid GhasemZadeh (188-G-89)
20- Saeid Davarpanah (191-G/F-87)
21- Saman Veisi (189-G-82)
22- Mehrad Atashi (190-G-86)
23- Mohammad Jamshidi (198-F-91)
24- Oshin Sahakian (200-F-86)
25- Aren Davoudichegani (185-PG-86)

Head Coach : Mehmed Becirovic

Assistants : Slobodan Mitev (agency: Promotex ) - Safa Ali Kamalian


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

Loto League Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Adrian BANKS
  Elitzur .
  (191-G-86)
  Avg: 21.5
 1. Banks, Elitzur21.5 
 2. Carter, Bnei H.20.7 
 3. Landesberg, Macca.20.7 
 4. Crawford, Maccab.19.3 
 5. Lewis, Hapoel Holon18.2 
 6. Dunn, Bnei Hashar.18.2 
 7. Asbury, Elitzur18.0 
 8. Travis, Galil Gilb.17.9 
 9. Carter, Maccabi17.4 
 10. Freeman, B.C. H.16.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Isaac ROSEFELT
  Bnei H.
  (205-C/F-85)
  Avg: 9.3
 1. Rosefelt, Bnei H.9.3 
 2. Dunston, Hapoel H.9.0 
 3. Tyus, Maccabi8.5 
 4. Duncan, Maccabi8.1 
 5. Bowman, Maccabi7.9 
 6. Asbury, Elitzur7.6 
 7. Dowell, B.C. H.7.3 
 8. Killingswort., Iro.7.3 
 9. Uter, Maccabi7.3 
 10. Kitchen, Maccabi7.0 
Assists Per Game
 Moran ROTH
  Hapoel Holon
  (183-PG-82)
  Avg: 7.3
 1. Roth, Hapoel Holon7.3 
 2. Tapiro, Maccabi7.2 
 3. Carter, Bnei H.7.1 
 4. Ohayon, Maccabi5.0 
 5. Thomas, Galil Gilb.4.8 
 6. Mitchell, Ironi A.4.7 
 7. Lifshitz, Elitzu.4.7 
 8. Delaney, B.C. H.4.3 
 9. Naimy, Hapoel J-M4.1 
 10. Limonad, Ironi A.4.0 
Steals Per Game
 Eric CAMPBELL
  Elitzu.
  (199-F-76)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Campbell, Elitzu.1.9 
 2. Yavzuri, Galil Gil.1.8 
 3. Uter, Maccabi1.8 
 4. Kitchen, Maccabi1.8 
 5. Ben-Chimol, Maccab.1.8 
 6. Lifshitz, Elitzu.1.8 
 7. Robinson, B.C. H.1.8 
 8. Mitchell, Ironi A.1.7 
 9. Skinn, Ironi Ashke.1.7 
 10. Limonad, Ironi A.1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Shawn JAMES
  Maccabi T-A
  (208-C-83)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. James, Maccabi T-A2.2 
 2. Dunston, Hapoel H.1.8 
 3. Randle, Hapoel J-M1.4 
 4. Uter, Maccabi1.4 
 5. Tyus, Maccabi1.4 
 6. Hendrix, Maccabi1.3 
 7. Campbell, Elitzu.1.0 
 8. Rosefelt, Bnei H.1.0 
 9. Sullivan, Hapoel H.0.9 
 10. Bowman, Maccabi0.9 


Maccabi T-A triumph in 2011/2012 season - by Eurobasket News

FINAL
Maccabi Ashdod-Maccabi T-A 63:83

Maccabi T-A triumph in 2011/2012 season proving their ambitions of the top team. The favorites overcame Maccabi Ashdod 83:63 in the Final game.
The game was mostly controlled by Maccabi T-A. Maccabi Ashdod was better in third quarter 20-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Maccabi T-A had a 30-18 advantage in offensive rebounds. They shot the lights out from three nailing 15 long-distance shots on high 62.5 percentage. Maccabi T-A players were unselfish on offense dishing 22 assists comparing to just 8 passes made by Maccabi Ashdod's players. Yogev Ohayon (189-G-87) nailed a double-double by scoring 10 points, 6 rebounds and 10 assists for the winning side and Keith Keith Langford (193-G/F-83, college: Kansas) accounted for 16 points and 5 rebounds. Alex Tyus (203-F-88, college: Florida) came up with 16 points and 9 rebounds and the other Josh Duncan (203-C/F-86) added 13 points and 9 rebounds respectively for Maccabi Ashdod in the defeat. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures.
In the game for the third place Hapoel Holon overcame Maccabi Rishon 72:67.

Maccabi Ashdod: Alex Tyus 16+9 rebs, Josh Carter (201-F/G-88, college: Texas A&M) 14, Josh Duncan 13, Meir Tapiro (192-PG-75) 11
Maccabi T-A: Keith Langford 16, Smith 16, David Blu (201-F-80, college: USC) 14, Yogev Ohayon 10


*****************************************************
  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.17.2 
 4. Diener, Banco d.17.1 
 5. Hickman, Scavolin.16.3 
 6. Green, Sidigas AV16.1 
 7. Dean, Sidigas AV16.0 
 8. Shakur, Novipiu CM16.0 
 9. Pullen, Angelico BI16.0 
 10. Tucker, Acea Roma15.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Viktor SANIKIDZE
  CS Bo.
  (203-F-86)
  Avg: 11
 1. Sanikidze, CS Bo.11.0 
 2. Johnson, Sidigas10.1 
 3. Ivanov, Fabi Shoes8.2 
 4. Smith, Otto C.7.7 
 5. Brunner, Fabi Shoes7.6 
 6. Gigli, CS Bologna7.4 
 7. Jones, Scavolini PS7.2 
 8. Chiotti, Novip.7.0 
 9. Miralles, Angelico.6.9 
 10. Easley, Banco d.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. Mekel, Benetton TV3.7 
 7. Poeta, CS Bologna3.6 
 8. Perkins, Bennet C.3.4 
 9. McCalebb, Montepa.3.4 
 10. Diener, Banco d.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. Perkins, Bennet C.1.9 
 8. Di Bella, Fabi S.1.9 
 9. Pullen, Angelico BI1.8 
 10. Collins, Otto Cas.1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Jarvis VARNADO
  Acea Roma
  (206-F-88)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Varnado, Acea Roma1.9 
 2. Cusin, Scavolini PS1.4 
 3. Johnson, Sidigas1.3 
 4. Easley, Banco d.1.2 
 5. Szewczyk, Umana V.1.1 
 6. Shermadini, Bennet1.0 
 7. Sanikidze, CS Bo.0.9 
 8. Viggiano, Benetton.0.8 
 9. Bourousis, Armani0.8 
 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. Mei, Comsum.it SI14.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Emanuele ROSSI
  Chieti
  (208-C-82)
  Avg: 12.8
 1. Rossi, Chieti12.8 
 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
 Bernardo MUSSO
  Napoli
  (192-G-86)
  Avg: 4.3
 1. Musso, Napoli4.3 
 2. Marino, Treviglio4.3 
 3. Bertolazzi, Omegna4.1 
 4. Traini, Recanati3.8 
 5. Stanic, Fabriano3.6 
 6. Circosta, Anagni3.5 
 7. Guarino, Ferentino3.3 
 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. Iardella, Fabriano2.9 
 4. Bertolazzi, Omegna2.9 
 5. Guarino, Ferentino2.9 
 6. Mei, Comsum.it SI2.8 
 7. Rivali, Santarcang.2.8 
 8. Musso, Napoli2.7 
 9. Portannese, Torino2.7 
 10. Maiocco, Pavia2.7 
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. Cazzaniga, Pavia1.1 
 5. Pascolo, Trento1.1 
 6. Candido, San Seve.1.1 
 7. Raminelli, Castell.1.0 
 8. Gandini, Trieste1.0 
 9. Benevelli, Orlandi.0.9 
 10. Tardito, Matera0.9 


Lega2 Round 1 of Semi-Finals. Enel Brindisi and Scafati with victories - by Eurobasket News

Giorgio Tesi PT - Givova Scafati 84-85

Scafati snatched a narrow road win over Pistoia in the semifinal series opener. The guests trailed by 2 points at the halftime before their 26-12 charge in the third quarter, which allowed them to win the game. Givova Scafati outrebounded Tuscany Pistoia 48-22 including a 18-4 advantage in offensive rebounds. 25 personal fouls committed by Tuscany Pistoia helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American power forward James Thomas (203-80, college: Texas) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 24 points and 24 rebounds (on 11-of-14 shooting from the field) for the winners and the former international swingman Andrea Ghiacci (200-81) chipped in 18 points and 7 rebounds. Four Givova Scafati players scored in double figures. At the losing side American point guard Dwight Hardy (188-87, college: St.John's) responded with 33 points (!!!) and the other American import forward Bobby Jones (201-84, college: Washington) scored 15 points.
Top scorers:
Givova Scafati: P.Marigney 24+1reb+2ast, J.Thomas 24+24reb+2ast, A.Ghiacci 18+7reb+3ast, M.Casini 11+1reb+1ast, N.Radulovic 8+7reb+1ast, G.Sorrentino 0+1reb
Giorgio Tesi PT: D.Hardy 33+2reb+2ast, B.Jones 15+4reb, J.Tavernari 10+4reb, F.Toppo 7+2reb+1ast, G.Gurini 7+3reb+3ast, L.Saccaggi 7+3reb+1ast
gschID: 176727


Enel Brindisi - Sigma Barcel. 102-97

Enel Bridnisi withheld a furious comeback effort from Sigma Barcellona to celebrate win in the opener. The hosts were already 18 points ahead after 3 quarters before a 34-21 Sigma Barcellona's run in the last quarter cut the lead to 102-97 at the end of the game. Enel Brindisi shot 60.3 percent from the field and made 21-of-27 charity shots (77.8 percent) during the game. Sigma Barcellona was plagued by 28 personal fouls down the stretch. American point guard Jonathan Gibson (182-87, college: N.Mexico St.) nailed 23 points and 6 rebounds for the winning side and his fellow American import point guard Alex Renfroe (191-86, college: Belmont) accounted for 18 points. Forward Matteo Da Ros (204-89) came up with 24 points and 8 rebounds and naturalized Canadian forward Philip Martin (202-80, college: Hawaii) added 20 points and 6 rebounds (on 9-of-10 shooting from the field) respectively for Sigma Barcellona in the defeat. Five Enel Brindisi and four Sigma Barcellona players scored in double figures. Sigma Barcellona's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
Enel Brindisi: J.Gibson 23+6reb+2ast, D.Borovnjak 18+4reb+1ast, A.Renfroe 18+3reb+3ast, M.Formenti 14+2ast, K.Ndoja 11+4reb+1ast, C.Callahan 10+2reb
Sigma Barcel.: M.Da Ros 24+8reb, P.Martin 20+6reb, M.Green 18+3reb+1ast, M.Hicks 13+5reb, R.Bucci 9+1reb+2ast, M.Lukauskis 8+5reb+1ast
gschID: 176726



SerieA Round 4 of Quarter-Finals. Montepaschi join semifinal stage - by Eurobasket News

Cimberio VA - Montepaschi 75-91

Montepaschi overcame Varese in Game 4 to seal the semifinal appearance. The game was mostly controlled by Montepaschi Siena. Cimberio Varese was better in fourth quarter 24-23. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Montepaschi Siena shot 62.5 percent from the field. They also forced 20 Cimberio Varese turnovers. It was a great shooting night for Montepaschi Siena especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 57.9 percentage. The winners were led by Australian center David Andersen (212-80) who scored that evening 19 points and 6 rebounds and Lithuanian center Ksistof Lavrinovic (210-79) supported him with 15 points. Four Montepaschi Siena players scored in double figures. Even 26 points and 7 rebounds by French forward Yakhouba Diawara (201-82, college: Pepperdine) did not help to save the game for Cimberio Varese. American guard Phil Goss (186-83, college: Drexel) added 20 points (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field) for lost side. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games.
Top scorers:
Cimberio VA: Y.Diawara 26+7reb+1ast, P.Goss 20+4reb+2ast, D.Fajardo 13+7reb+1ast, T.Rannikko 6+3ast, J.Talts 5+4reb+2ast, N.Bertoglio 3
Montepaschi: D.Andersen 19+6reb+1ast, K.Lavrinovic 15+3reb+2ast, B.McCalebb 15+2reb+2ast, P.Aradori 11+1reb+3ast, M.Carraretto 8+1reb, M.Thornton 6+1reb+2ast
gschID: 177025


Scavolini PS - Bennet Cantu 80-68

Scavolini earned the second straight win in Pesaro and forced the decider. The game was mostly controlled by Scavolini Pesaro. Bennet Cantu managed to win fourth quarter 23-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Worth to mention a great performance of American point guard Ricky Hickman (189-85, college: NC-Greensboro) who helped to win the game recording 20 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists and the former international center Marco Cusin (211-85, agency: Interperformances) who added 12 points and 6 rebounds during the contest. Four Scavolini Pesaro players scored in double figures. At the losing side American point guard Doron Perkins (188-83, college: Santa Clara) responded with 10 points and 6 steals and Georgian guard Manuchar Markoishvili (196-86) scored 11 points and 4 steals.
Top scorers:
Bennet Cantu: G.Basile 11+2reb, M.Markoishvili 11+4reb, D.Perkins 10+4reb+2ast, N.Mazzarino 10, G.Brunner 8+4reb, D.Marconato 8+6reb
Scavolini PS: R.Hickman 20+6reb+5ast, J.White 15+2reb+1ast, M.Cusin 12+6reb, D.Hackett 11+4reb+1ast, D.Cavaliero 9+3reb+5ast, J.Jones 8+6reb+2ast
gschID: 177026



Anthony Dobbins selected the top Italian playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

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

Anthony Dobbins
Anthony Dobbins
   #1. This week's number one is an international guard Anthony Dobbins (194-81, college: Richmond), who plays in the French ProA. Dobbins could not help Poitiers (9-21) in their last game on Wednesday. Despite his good performance Poitiers was badly defeated 83-67 on the road by the much higher-ranked Entente Orleans 45 (#3). Dobbins was the top scorer with 14 points. He also added 7 boards, dished 3 assists and stole 4 balls. The Regular Season already ended. Dobbins is ranked second on the list of the most steals in the league. This season he averages: 8.1ppg, 6.0rpg, 3.7apg, 2.3spg, 2FGP: 40.4%, 3FGP: 23.8% and FT: 68.6%. Dobbins is a naturalized American. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Dobbins is currently a member of the Italian senior national team. He used to play for Banca Nuova Trapani in Italian league.

Leandro Garcia Morales
Leandro Garcia Morales
   #2. Second place goes to an international guard Leandro Garcia Morales (186-80, college: Texas A&M). Garcia Morales led Cocodrilos to a 1-point victory against the leader Marinos (6-2) 87-86 in the Venezuelan LPB on Wednesday night. He recorded 12 points and added 3 passes in 38 minutes. It was the game of the round between two top 3 ranked teams in Group B. Cocodrilos de Caracas (4-4) is placed second. Garcia Morales has individually a very good year with high stats. He averages: 15.4ppg, 2.0rpg, 3.1apg, 1.4spg in the 14 games he played so far. Garcia Morales has a dual citizenship: Italian and Uruguayan. Despite he played previously for the Uruguayan national team, Garcia Morales is currently a member of the Italian senior national team.

Dimitri Lauwers
Dimitri Lauwers
   #3. The Italian player who performed third best last week abroad was an experienced international guard Dimitri Lauwers (187-79). He contributed to an easy victory against the fifth-ranked Belfius Mons-Hainaut (15-17) crushing them 92-67 in the Belgian Ethias League in Monday night's game. Lauwers recorded 6 points. Telenet Oostende (23-9) is placed first in the Ethias League. It was his team's fifth consecutive victory in a row. Lauwers' overall stats this season are: 5.3ppg, 2.4rpg, 1.6apg, 3FGP: 28.6% and FT: 75.0%. He is another player who holds two passports: Italian and Belgian. Despite Lauwers played previously for the Belgian national team, he played also for the Italian national team in 2012.

Dennis Dadezzio
Dennis Dadezzio
   #4. Guard Dennis Dadezzio (191-81) was not able to help Trotamundos (4-4) in their game against Guaiqueries (5-3) in the Venezuelan LPB. Dadezzio did not have that impressive stats last Wednesday. He recorded only 2 points in 12 minutes. The second-placed Trotamundos lost 73-87 in Porlamar to the leading Guaiqueries in the Group A. This year Dadezzio averages just 3.9ppg in the 38 games. He has both Italian and Venezuelan nationalities. Dadezzio is also Italian national team player.

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

   #1. Marcelinho Huertas (191-PG-83, agency: Edge Sports) led Regal FC Barcelona to a victory over the eighth-ranked Meridiano Alicante (18-16) crushing them 73-43 in the Spanish ACB in Thursday night's game. He was MVP of the game. Huertas recorded 14 points, 6 assists and 3 steals in 22 minutes. Regal FC Barcelona (29-5) is placed first in the ACB. It was his team's tenth consecutive victory in a row. This year Huertas averages: 8.2ppg, 2.7rpg, 3.3apg and 1.1spg in the 36 games he played so far. He has a dual citizenship: Brazilian and Italian. Despite Huertas' Italian passport, he currently plays for the Brazilian national team and is not eligible to play for the Italian team.

Other top Italian players, who play abroad:

Emanuel Ginobili (198-G-77) plays for San Antonio Spurs in the NBA
Pablo Prigioni (191-G-77) plays for Caja Laboral in Spanish ACB
Andres Nocioni (199-F-79) plays for Caja Laboral in Spanish ACB
Danilo Gallinari (208-F-88) plays for Denver Nuggets in the NBA
Carlos Delfino (198-G-82) plays for Milwaukee Bucks in the NBA
Andrea Bargnani (209-F/C-85) plays for Toronto Raptors in the NBA
Marco Belinelli (196-G-86) plays for New Orleans Hornets in the NBA
Hernan Jasen (199-G-78) plays for Cajasol in Spanish ACB
Leonardo Mainoldi (203-F-85) plays for Baloncesto Fuenlabrada in Spanish ACB
Bruno Fiorotto (208-C-84) plays for Pinheiros/Sky in Brazilian NBB
Paulinho Boracini (183-G-84) plays for Pinheiros/Sky in Brazilian NBB
Guilherme Giovannoni (202-F-80) plays for Uniceub/BRB in Brazilian NBB
Juan Gutierrez (205-F/C-83) plays for Obras in Argentinian LigaA

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


*****************************************************
  IVORY COAST   


Mamadi Diane selected the top Ivorian playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

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

Mamadi Diane
Mamadi Diane
   #1. This week's number one is an international swingman Mamadi Diane (196-86, college: Virginia). He was the major contributor in Ventspils' victory against the closely-ranked VEF Riga (15-1) 97-90 in the Latvian LBL in Thursday night's game. Diane recorded 21 points, 4 rebounds and 3 blocks in 36 minutes on the court; quite an impressive performance considering it's only his third season in pro basketball. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. BK Ventspils (15-1) is placed third in the LBL. It's Diane's first year with the team. Diane has relatively good stats this season: 10.8ppg, 2.3rpg, 1.6apg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 52.6%, 3FGP: 38.9% and FT: 73.0% in the 12 games he played so far. He has a dual citizenship: Guinean and Ivorian. Despite Diane played previously for the Guinean national team, he is currently a member of the Ivorian senior national team.

Pape-Philippe Amagou
Pape-Philippe Amagou
   #2. Second place goes to former international guard Pape-Philippe Amagou (185-85, agency: Beo Basket). Amagou led Sluc Nancy to a victory over the closely-ranked Le Mans (19-11) crushing them 89-64 in the French ProA last Tuesday. He was MVP of the game. Amagou recorded 20 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Sluc Nancy Basket Pro (18-12) is placed fifth in the ProA. This season Amagou has relatively solid stats: 11.2ppg, 1.9rpg, 2.6apg, 2FGP: 48.7%, 3FGP: 38.8% and FT: 81.6%. He is another player who holds two passports: Ivorian and French. Despite Amagou played previously for the French U20 national team, he played also for the Ivorian national team in 2010.

Walter Hodge
Walter Hodge
   #3. The Ivorian player who performed third best last week abroad was former international point guard Walter Hodge (183-86, college: Florida). Hodge was the main contributor in a Zastal ZG's victory against the sixth-ranked PGE Turow (2-8) 74-69 in the Polish PLK on Monday night. He was the best player in that game. Hodge recorded 24 points, 3 assists and 3 steals in 38 minutes; not bad, considering it's only his third season in pro basketball. Zastal Zielona Gora (6-4) is placed third in Group A. Hodge is ranked first on the list of the top scorers in the league and also on the list of best passers (third place). He has individually a very good year with high stats. Hodge averages: 19.3ppg, 2.8rpg, 5.7apg, 1.5spg, 2FGP: 47.2%, 3FGP: 31.5% and FT: 87.5% in the 44 games. He has both Ivorian and Puerto Rican nationalities. Despite Hodge played previously for the Puerto Rican national team, he played also for the Ivorian national team in 2005.

Mouloukou Diabate
Mouloukou Diabate
   #4. Point guard Mouloukou Diabate (183-87), who plays in the French ProA could not help Chorale de Roanne (16-14) to beat Chalon/Saor (23-7). Diabate recorded 5 points and added 8 assists. Chorale de Roanne was crushed 91-70 on the road by the second-ranked Chalon/Saor. Diabate's overall stats this season are: 6.8ppg, 2.8rpg, 4.0apg and 1.3spg. He also holds two passports: Ivorian and French. Diabate is also Ivorian national team player.

Alain Koffi
Alain Koffi
   #5. International center Alain Koffi (207-83, also represented by Beo Basket) faced previously mentioned Pape-Philippe Amagou in the French ProA last game. Koffi was not able to help Le Mans (19-11) in their game against Sluc Nancy (18-12). He recorded 8 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in 20 minutes. Le Mans was crushed 89-64 at home by the lower-ranked (#5) Sluc Nancy. This year Koffi's overall stats are: 7.0ppg and 3.5rpg in the 19 games. He holds both Ivorian and French passports. Despite Koffi played previously for the French national team, he is currently in the Ivorian national team roster.

Mohamed Kone
Mohamed Kone
   #6. Center Mohamed Kone (211-81, college: Valparaiso) was not able to secure a victory for Meridiano Alicante (18-16) in their game against Regal FC Barcelona (29-5) in the Spanish ACB. Kone was the second best scorer with 9 points. But Meridiano Alicante was crushed 84-57 in Barcelona by the leading Regal FC. It was Meridiano Alicante's third consecutive loss in a row. It's Kone's first season with the team. His total stats this year are: 4.9ppg and 3.5rpg. Despite Kone played previously for the French national team, he is also an international player who is currently on the senior Ivorian National Team roster.

Francis Koffi
Francis Koffi
   #7. Former international forward Francis Koffi (202-81, college: Fresno St.) contributed to Ourense's victory against the closely-ranked Prat Juventud (15-9) 76-65 in the Spanish LEB Silver (third division) in Friday night's game. Koffi recorded 12 points and grabbed 7 rebounds in 27 minutes. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. Aquas De Sousas Club Ourense Baloncesto (15-13) is placed in the LEB Silver. Koffi has reliable stats this year: 11.8ppg and 5.7rpg in the 35 games. Despite he played previously for the French national team, Koffi is currently in the Ivorian national team roster.

Wilfrid Aka
Wilfrid Aka
   #8. An experienced swingman Wilfrid Aka (192-79), who plays in the French ProB (second division) couldn't help JA Vichy (7-27) in their last game on Wednesday. Despite his good performance JA Vichy was edged 80-77 in Rouen by the higher-ranked SPO Rouen (#14). Aka was the second best scorer with 14 points. He also added 4 rebounds. The Regular Season already ended. Aka's total stats this season are: 7.5ppg, 3.0rpg and 1.4apg. Despite he played previously for the French national team, Aka is currently in the Ivorian national team roster.

Frejus Zerbo
Frejus Zerbo
   #9. Former international center Frejus Zerbo (205-89) contributed to a Limoges CSP Elite's victory against the 13th-ranked Nantes (14-20) 78-72 in the French ProB (second division) on Wednesday night. He recorded 6 points in 16 minutes. Limoges CSP Elite (27-7) is placed first in the ProB. Zerbo's team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And that game will be critical. This year Zerbo's total stats are: 2.4ppg and 3.0rpg in the 28 games. Despite he played previously for the Burkinabe national team, Zerbo is currently in the Ivorian national team roster.

Issife Soumahoro
Issife Soumahoro
   #10. Forward Issife Soumahoro (197-88) managed to help Boulazac Basket Dordogne to win against the 15th-ranked Le Portel (12-22) 86-79 in the French ProB (second division) in Wednesday night's game. He recorded only 2 points. Boulazac Basket Dordogne (25-9) is placed second in the ProB. It was his team's third consecutive victory in a row. They will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And now that game is very crucial. Soumahoro has averaged so far 3.8ppg and 1.3rpg. He is a former international player as two years ago he still played for the Ivorian senior national team.


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


Roy Hibbert's double-double lands him Player of the Week award among Jamaicans playing currently abroad - by Eurobasket Center

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

Roy Hibbert
Roy Hibbert
   #1. This week's number one is former international center Roy Hibbert (218-86, college: Georgetown). He was the major contributor in an Indiana Pacers' victory against the Miami Heat (46-20) 94-75 in the NBA in Thursday night's game. Hibbert had a double-double by scoring 19 points and getting 18 rebounds. He also added 5 blocks in 33 minutes on the court. The Indiana Pacers have a solid 42-24 record this season. It's Hibbert's fourth year with the team. Hibbert is ranked fifth on the list of the best blockers in the league with 2.1bpg. He also averaged so far 12.7ppg, 9.1rpg, 1.6apg, 2FGP: 49.6% and FT: 70.3% in the 75 games he played so far. Hibbert is a naturalized American. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Hibbert played also for the Jamaican national team in 2010.

Bryan Bailey
Bryan Bailey
   #2. Second place goes to former international point guard Bryan Bailey (185-80, college: Bucknell). He led Artland Dragons to a victory against the closely-ranked Bayern Muenchen (22-12) 79-73 in the German BBL last Thursday. Bailey scored 14 points. Artland Dragons Quakenbrueck (24-10) is placed fourth in the BBL. It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row. This season Bailey averages: 7.1ppg, 1.2rpg, 2.3apg, 2FGP: 48.1%, 3FGP: 18.9% and FT: 77.0%. He is a naturalized American. Despite Bailey played previously for the USA national team, he played also for the Jamaican national team in 2007.

Adrian Uter
Adrian Uter
   #3. The Jamaican player who performed third best last week abroad was former international power forward Adrian Uter (201-84, agency: Gross Zeev ISA, college: Hofstra). Uter contributed to a Maccabi Rishon's victory against the eighth-ranked Ironi Ashkelon (10-15) 77-63 in the Israeli Premier League on Wednesday night. He scored 10 points, grabbed 5 rebounds, passed 4 assists and added 3 blocks in 35 minutes. Maccabi Rishon Le-Zion (15-10) is placed third in the Premier League. Uter is ranked fourth on the list of the best blockers in the league and also on the list of most steals (third place). He has very reliable stats this year: 13.3ppg, 7.3rpg, 2.4apg, 1.4bpg, 1.8spg, 2FGP: 51.7% and FT: 61.2% in the 32 games. Uter is a naturalized American. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Uter played also for the Jamaican national team in 2007.

Maurice Bailey
Maurice Bailey
   #4. Guard Maurice Bailey (183-81, college: Sacred Heart) helped VEF Riga win their game against the closely-ranked Ventspils (15-1) crushing them 100-70 in the Latvian LBL in Sunday night's game. He scored 6 points. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. VEF Riga (15-1) is placed second in the LBL. It was his team's ninth consecutive victory in a row. Bailey is currently seventh on the list of best passers. His overall stats this season are: 6.6ppg, 2.1rpg, 3.4apg and 1.1spg. Bailey is a naturalized American. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Bailey is currently in the Jamaican national team roster.

Oritseweyinmi Efejuku
Oritseweyinmi Efejuku
   #5. Former international guard Oritseweyinmi Efejuku (196-86, college: Providence) helped Indios win their game against the fourth-ranked Vaqueros (6-4) 89-74 in the Puerto Rican BSN last Wednesday. He recorded 12 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists (made all of his six free throws) in 20 minutes. Indios de Mayaguez (6-4) is placed second in Top 6 group. Efejuku has relatively good stats this year: 11.8ppg, 3.2rpg and 2.3apg in the 35 games. He has a dual citizenship: Nigerian and Jamaican. Despite Efejuku played previously for the Nigerian national team, he is currently in the Jamaican national team roster.

Sherman Gay
Sherman Gay
   #6. Power forward Sherman Gay (201-82, college: Loyola Mary) led Fos Ouest to a victory over the tenth-ranked Lille Metropole (16-18) 75-66 in the French ProB (second division) on Wednesday night. Gay was MVP of the game. He recorded 16 points and grabbed 9 rebounds. Fos Ouest Provence Basket (22-12) is placed fifth in the ProB. Gay's team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And that game will be critical. Gay is ranked first on the list of the best blockers in the league. He has individually a very good season with high stats. Gay averages: 15.1ppg, 6.5rpg, 1.2apg, 1.7bpg and 1.1spg. He is a naturalized American. Despite Gay played previously for the USA national team, he is also a former international player as he played for the Jamaican senior team three years ago.

Other top Jamaican players, who play abroad:

Jerome Jordan (213-C-86) plays for New York Knicks in the NBA
Samardo Samuels (206-F/C-89) plays for Cleveland Cavaliers in the NBA
Kimany Ffriend (211-C-77) plays for Baloncesto Fuenlabrada in Spanish ACB
Jermaine Bucknor (199-F-83) plays for s Oliver Baskets in German BBL
Corey Muirhead (198-F-83) plays for BK Pardubice in Czech Republic NBL
Akeem Scott (186-PG-83) plays for Mornar Bar in Montenegrin 1A
Omar Barlett (203-F-80) plays for AEK in Cypriot Division A
Garry Gallimore (192-G-84) plays for CSM Bucuresti in Romanian Division A
Corey Williams (191-G-77) plays for Quebradillas in Puerto Rican BSN
Ricky Johns (193-G-85) plays for San Martin Corrientes in Argentinian LigaA

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


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


Jordanian National Team 2012 - by Eurobasket Center

Jordanian National Team 2012
#s#
Osama Daghles
Daghles
Zaid Abbas
Abbas
Enver Soobzokov
Soobzokov
Fares Saqf-AlHait
Saqf-AlHait
Mahmoud Abdeen
Abdeen
#e#5
Osama Daghles 198-G-79 Orthodox Jordan
Sinan Eid 193-G-91 Orthodox Jordan
Zaid Abbas 203-F-83 Orthodox Jordan
Enver Soobzokov 201-G/F-78 Orthodox Jordan
Fares Saqf-AlHait 194-G/F-87 Orthodox Jordan
Mahmoud Abdeen 189-PG-87 ASU Jordan
Mohammad Hadrab 202-PF-84 ASU Jordan
Mousa Alawadi 188-G-85 ASU Jordan
Mohammad Hussein 210-C-90 ASU Jordan
Abdallah AbuQoura 205-F/C-84 ASU Jordan
Fadel Al-Najjar 192-G-85 Kofer Yoba Jordan
Khaldon Abu Ruqayah 200-F-83 Kofer Yoba Jordan
Ahmed Al-Hamarsheh 200-F-86 Kofer Yoba Jordan
Ibrahim Bassam 204-C-87 Kofer Yoba Jordan
Hani AlFaraj 192-SG-87 Kofer Yoba Jordan
Issa Kamel 194-F/G-83 Al Riyadi Jordan
Ahmad Al Dwairi 210-C-93 Al Riyadi Jordan
Mohammad Ali 195-PF-89 Al Riyadi Jordan
Ali Jamal 205-C/F-88 Al Riyadi Jordan

Thomas Baldwin Head Coach



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


Davis Bertans selected the top Latvian playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

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

Davis Bertans
Davis Bertans
   #1. This week's number one is an international forward Davis Bertans (208-92). He led Partizan to a victory over the eighth-ranked BKK Radnicki (4-10) 87-77 in a derby game in the Serbian A League in Wednesday night's game. Bertans was MVP of the game. He scored 20 points and grabbed 6 rebounds in 26 minutes on the court. BC Partizan MT:S Beograd (12-2) is placed first in SuperLiga group. It was his team's tenth consecutive victory in a row. They will play only one more game in the Second Stage. And that game will be critical. This year Bertans averages: 5.9ppg, 2.0rpg, 2FGP: 73.7%(14-19), 3FGP: 44.0% and FT: 83.3% in the 12 games he played so far. He is currently a member of the Latvian senior national team.

Janis Strelnieks
Janis Strelnieks
   #2. Second place goes to an international guard Janis Strelnieks (191-89), who plays in the Russian PBL. Strelnieks could not help Spartak St.Petersburg (9-9) in their last game on Saturday. Despite his good performance Spartak St.Petersburg was defeated 73-62 on the road by the lower-ranked Unics Kazan (#6). Strelnieks scored 14 points and added 4 assists. Strelnieks' overall stats this season are: 5.6ppg, 1.3apg, 2FGP: 62.5%(15-24), 3FGP: 39.4% and FT: 88.2%. He is in the roster of the Latvian senior national team.

Janis Blums
Janis Blums
   #3. The Latvian player who performed third best last week abroad was an international guard Janis Blums (190-82). Blums was not able to help Gescrap BB (19-15) in their game against Caja Laboral (23-11) in the Spanish ACB. He scored 6 points in only 14 minutes. Gescrap BB was edged in an overtime 90-88 at home by the higher-ranked (#3) Caja Laboral. It's Blums' fourth season with the team. This year Blums' overall stats are: 5.7ppg, 1.2rpg, 2FGP: 47.2%, 3FGP: 39.8% and FT: 62.5% in the 33 games. He is also a member of the Latvian senior national team.

Armands Skele
Armands Skele
   #4. Guard Armands Skele (192-83) contributed to Kalev/Cramo's victory against the league leader Tartu Ulikool (25-3) 72-65 in the Estonian KML in Thursday night's game. Skele recorded 7 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. BC Kalev/Cramo Tallinn (23-5) is placed second in the KML. It's Skele's first season with the team. His total stats this year are: 9.2ppg, 3.9rpg, 2.6apg and 1.6spg. Skele used to play for the Latvian national team back in 2009.

Other top Latvian players, who play abroad:

Rihards Kuksiks (198-G/F-88) plays for Valencia Basket in Spanish ACB
Andris Biedrins (213-C-86) plays for Golden State Warriors in the NBA
Andris Misters (192-G-92) plays for Toronto Raptors in the NBA
Raitis Grafs (208-C-81) plays for Siauliai in Lithuanian LKL
Kristaps Valters (190-G-81) plays for Unicaja Malaga in Spanish ACB
Kristaps Porzingis (210-C-95) plays for Cajasol in Spanish ACB
Akselis Vairogs (195-F-85) plays for Slask Wroclaw in Polish PLK
Pavels Veselovs (207-F/C-83) plays for Keravnos in Cypriot Division A
Rinalds Sirsnins (186-PG-85) plays for BC Rakvere in Estonian KML
Juris Umbrasko (197-G/F-79) plays for BC Rakvere in Estonian KML
Arturs Brunins (198-F-82) plays for Neptunas in Lithuanian LKL

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


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

Eurobasket.com All-Latvian League 1st Team 2012
#s#
Josh Mayo
Mayo
Zanis Peiners
Peiners
Kristaps Janicenoks
Janicenoks
Donatas Zavackas
Zavackas
Kaspars Berzins
Berzins
#e#5

Player of the Year: Josh Mayo (182-G-87) of Liepaja
Guard of the Year: Josh Mayo (182-G-87) of Liepaja
Forward of the Year: Kristaps Janicenoks (196-F-83) of VEF Riga
Center of the Year: Kaspars Berzins (213-F/C-85) of VEF Riga
Import Player of the Year: Josh Mayo (182-G-87) of Liepaja
Domestic Player of the Year: Kaspars Berzins (213-F/C-85) of VEF Riga
Defensive Player of the Year: Curtis Millage (185-G-81) of VEF Riga
Coach of the Year: Ramunas Butautas of VEF Riga

1st Team
G: Josh Mayo (182-87) of Liepaja
G: Zanis Peiners (203-90) of LU
F: Kristaps Janicenoks (196-83) of VEF Riga
F: Donatas Zavackas (203-80) of VEF Riga
F/C: Kaspars Berzins (213-85) of VEF Riga

2nd Team
G: Jai Lucas (177) of Valmiera
G: Curtis Millage (185-81) of VEF Riga
G: Jahmar Young (196-86) of Ventspils
F: Ervins Jonats (199-91) of Jurmala
F/C: Jekabs Rozitis (206-86) of Valmiera

Honorable Mention
Kristaps Dargais (195-G-90) of LU
Martins Kravcenko (192-G-85) of Liepaja
Janis Timma (201-F/G-92) of Liepaja
Tyler Cain (203-F-88) of VEF Riga
Edgars Krumins (194-G/F-86) of Jelgava
Atis Ozols (198-F-81) of Jurmala
Antanas Kavaliauskas (208-C-84) of VEF Riga
Roberts Mednis (204-C-89) of Turiba

All-Domestic Players Team
G: Zanis Peiners (203-90) of LU
G: Kristaps Dargais (195-90) of LU
F: Kristaps Janicenoks (196-83) of VEF Riga
F: Ervins Jonats (199-91) of Jurmala
F/C: Kaspars Berzins (213-85) of VEF Riga

All-Imports Team
G: Josh Mayo (182-87) of Liepaja
G: Jai Lucas (177) of Valmiera
G: Curtis Millage (185-81) of VEF Riga
G: Jahmar Young (196-86) of Ventspils
F: Tyler Cain (203-88) of VEF Riga

All-Defensive Team
Curtis Millage (185-G-81) of VEF Riga
Josh Mayo (182-G-87) of Liepaja
Zanis Peiners (203-G-90) of LU
Kaspars Berzins (213-F/C-85) of VEF Riga
Jekabs Rozitis (206-F/C-86) of Valmiera


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

Stats Leaders - Men

Points Per Game
 Desmond PENIGAR
  Byblos
  (201-F-81)
  Avg: 28.5
 1. Penigar, Byblos28.5 
 2. Spencer, Al Riyadi26.0 
 3. Khatib, Champville26.0 
 4. Gray, Byblos24.6 
 5. Johnson, Sagesse22.6 
 6. Youngblood, Anibal22.0 
 7. Johnson, Moutahed21.3 
 8. Hoskin, Champville20.3 
 9. Souaid, Bejjeh18.9 
 10. Khoury, Sagesse18.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Desmond PENIGAR
  Byblos
  (201-F-81)
  Avg: 12.1
 1. Penigar, Byblos12.1 
 2. Crump, Sagesse11.5 
 3. Ismail, Al Riyadi11.2 
 4. Thompson, Champvil.11.0 
 5. Hoskin, Champville10.8 
 6. Trim, Moutahed9.2 
 7. Hamdar, Hoops8.9 
 8. Bawji, Moutahed8.3 
 9. Hurd, Anibal7.6 
 10. Bou Abboud, Bejj.7.6 
Assists Per Game
 Rodrigue AKL
  Anibal
  (189-PG-88)
  Avg: 6.4
 1. Akl, Anibal6.4 
 2. Johnson, Moutahed5.8 
 3. Mahmoud, Al Riyadi5.7 
 4. Gray, Byblos5.5 
 5. Ismail, Al Riyadi5.5 
 6. Khatib, Champville5.1 
 7. Johnson, Sagesse4.5 
 8. Spencer, Al Riyadi4.4 
 9. Barada, Byblos4.3 
 10. Youngblood, Anibal3.7 
Steals Per Game
 Austin JOHNSON
  Moutahed
  (191-G-87)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. Johnson, Moutahed2.7 
 2. Youngblood, Anibal2.6 
 3. Mahmoud, Al Riyadi2.4 
 4. Spencer, Al Riyadi2.1 
 5. Estephane, Champvi.1.9 
 6. Akl, Anibal1.7 
 7. Johnson, Sagesse1.7 
 8. Thompson, Champvil.1.6 
 9. Souaid, Bejjeh1.6 
 10. Ismail, Al Riyadi1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Ahmad ISMAIL
  Al Riyadi
  (205-F-76)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Ismail, Al Riyadi1.8 
 2. Hamdar, Hoops1.6 
 3. Crump, Sagesse1.5 
 4. Thompson, Champvil.1.5 
 5. Sabra, Byblos1.4 
 6. Vogel, Al Riyadi1.3 
 7. Youngblood, Anibal1.1 
 8. Hoskin, Champville1.0 
 9. Tabet, Anibal1.0 
 10. Bou Abboud, Bejj.1.0 


Lebanese National Team 2012 - by Eurobasket Center

Lebanese National Team 2012
#s#
Ali Mahmoud
Mahmoud
Rodrigue Akl
Akl
Mohamad Ibrahim
Ibrahim
Fadi Khatib
Khatib
Jean Abdel Nour
Abdel Nour
#e#5
Ali Mahmoud 185-G-83 Al Riyadi Lebanon
Rodrigue Akl 189-PG-88 Anibal Lebanon
Mohamad Ibrahim 196-G-83 Champville Lebanon
Fadi Khatib 199-F-79 Champville Lebanon
Jean Abdel Nour 198-F/G-83 Al Riyadi Lebanon
Elie Estephane 195-G-86 Champville Lebanon
Elie Roustom 197-F-87 Moutahed Lebanon
Samer Moucharef Byblos Lebanon
Ghaleb Rida 192-G-81 Anibal Lebanon
Nadim Souaid 192-F-86 Bejjeh Lebanon
Hussein El Khatib Hoops Lebanon
Ahmad Ibrahim 201-G/F-92 Rice USA
Jad Bitar 204-C/F-88 Sagesse Lebanon
Charles Tabet 205-C-88 Anibal Lebanon
Ali Kanaan 205-C/F-85 Al Riyadi Lebanon
William Pharis 206-F/C-81 Al Riyadi Lebanon
Roy Samaha 205-F/C-84 Anibal Lebanon
Ali Fakhreddine 204-C-83 Hoops Lebanon
Bassel Bawji 203-F/C-89 Moutahed Lebanon



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


Donatas Motiejunas' double-double lands him Player of the Week award among Lithuanians playing currently abroad - by Eurobasket Center

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

Donatas Motiejunas
Donatas Motiejunas
   #1. This week's number one is an international power forward Donatas Motiejunas (213-90, agency: Interperformances). He was the major contributor in an Asseco Prokom's victory against the second-ranked Trefl Sopot (6-4) 89-81 in the Polish PLK in Monday night's game. Motiejunas had a double-double by scoring 16 points and getting 13 rebounds. He also added 3 assists in 28 minutes on the court. It was the game of the round between two top 3 ranked teams in Group A. Asseco Prokom Gdynia (8-2) is placed first. It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row. Motiejunas is currently fourth on the league's list of top scorers and also on the list of most steals (fifth place). He has individually a very good year with high stats. Motiejunas averages: 15.8ppg, 6.6rpg, 1.6apg, 1.5spg, 2FGP: 51.8%, 3FGP: 27.0% and FT: 65.0% in the 20 games he played so far. He is currently a member of the Lithuanian senior national team.

Rimantas Kaukenas
Rimantas Kaukenas
   #2. Second place goes to an experienced international guard Rimantas Kaukenas (192-77, college: Seton Hall), who plays in the Italian SerieA. Kaukenas could not help Montepaschi Siena (24-8) in their last game on Monday. Despite his very good performance the league leader Montepaschi Siena was edged 73-70 on the road by the much lower-ranked Cimberio Varese (#8). Kaukenas was the top scorer with 16 points. He also added 7 rebounds. Kaukenas has relatively good stats this season: 10.4ppg, 1.9rpg, 1.8apg, 2FGP: 48.7%, 3FGP: 43.2% and FT: 86.0%. He is in the roster of the Lithuanian senior national team.

Ksistof Lavrinovic
Ksistof Lavrinovic
   #3. The Lithuanian player who performed third best last week abroad was an international center Ksistof Lavrinovic (210-79) is a teammate of previously mentioned Rimantas Kaukenas. But that was another game of his team in Italian SerieA which we would like to mention. Lavrinovic led Montepaschi Siena to a victory over the eighth-ranked Cimberio Varese (17-15) 88-72. He was MVP of the game. Lavrinovic scored 19 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in 24 minutes. Montepaschi Siena (24-8) is placed first in the SerieA. It's Lavrinovic's fifth season with the team. This year he has relatively solid stats: 11.9ppg, 5.2rpg, 2FGP: 62.5%(80-128), 3FGP: 35.0% and FT: 81.4% in the 21 games. Lavrinovic is also a member of the Lithuanian senior national team.

Ramunas Siskauskas
Ramunas Siskauskas
   #4. Guard Ramunas Siskauskas (197-78) contributed to an easy victory against the closely-ranked Khimky (15-3) 79-61 in the Russian PBL in Thursday night's game. He scored 12 points. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. CSKA Moscow (17-1) is placed first in the PBL. It was his team's 13th consecutive victory in a row. Siskauskas has been at the team for five years. Siskauskas' overall stats this season are: 6.9ppg, 1.9rpg and 1.4apg. He used to play for the Lithuanian national team back in 2010.

Martynas Gecevicius
Martynas Gecevicius
   #5. International guard Martynas Gecevicius (193-88) contributed to Olympiacos' victory against the closely-ranked Panathinaikos (22-2) 84-78 in a derby game in the Greek A1 last Monday. Gecevicius recorded 11 points in a mere 16 minutes. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. Olympiacos S.F.P. Pireus (23-1) is placed first in the A1. It was his team's 20th consecutive victory in a row. This year Gecevicius' overall stats are: 8.2ppg, 1.4rpg and 1.2apg in the 27 games. He plays currently for the Lithuanian national team.

Antanas Kavaliauskas
Antanas Kavaliauskas
   #6. Center Antanas Kavaliauskas (208-84, also represented by Interperformances, college: Texas A&M) contributed to an easy victory against the closely-ranked Ventspils (15-1) crushing them 100-70 in the Latvian LBL on Sunday night. Kavaliauskas scored 13 points and grabbed 7 rebounds. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. VEF Riga (15-1) is placed second in the LBL. It was his team's ninth consecutive victory in a row. Kavaliauskas has reliable stats this season: 11.5ppg and 5.2rpg. He is a former university international player as he played for the Lithuanian team five years ago.

Sarunas Jasikevicius
Sarunas Jasikevicius
   #7. International guard Sarunas Jasikevicius (192-76, college: Maryland) contributed to a 2-point Panathinaikos' victory against the league leader Olympiacos (23-1) 81-79 in a derby game in the Greek A1 in Thursday night's game. Jasikevicius scored 8 points and added 3 passes (was perfect 6-for-6 from the free throw line) in 22 minutes. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. Panathinaikos Athens (22-2) is placed second in the A1. It was his team's eighth consecutive victory in a row. It's Jasikevicius' first season with the team. This year his total stats are: 8.3ppg and 3.1apg in the 32 games. Jasikevicius is also Lithuanian national team player.

Donatas Zavackas
Donatas Zavackas
   #8. Forward Donatas Zavackas (203-80, college: Pittsburgh) is a teammate of previously mentioned Antanas Kavaliauskas and both played together in the last Latvian LBL game. Zavackas contributed to an easy victory against the closely-ranked Ventspils (15-1) crushing them 100-70. He scored 11 points and grabbed 4 rebounds. Zavackas averaged so far 12.3ppg, 6.0rpg, 1.4apg and 1.4spg. He used to play for the Lithuanian U20 national team back in 2000.

Arvydas Cepulis
Arvydas Cepulis
   #9. Former University international guard Arvydas Cepulis (196-79) was the main contributor in Ploiesti's victory against the eighth-ranked Timisoara (17-13) 79-65 in the Romanian Division A on Thursday night. Cepulis was the best player in that game. He scored 23 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in 34 minutes. CSU Asesoft Ploiesti (20-8) is placed fourth in the Division A. Cepulis' stats this year are: 12.8ppg, 3.1rpg and 1.4apg in the 24 games. He used to play for the Lithuanian university national team seven years ago.

Martynas Pocius
Martynas Pocius
   #10. Guard Martynas Pocius (196-86, another player represented by Interperformances, college: Duke) contributed to an easy victory against the seventh-ranked Cajasol (18-16) crushing them 82-55 in the Spanish ACB in Sunday night's game. Pocius scored 7 points. Real Madrid (26-8) is placed second in the ACB. Pocius has averaged so far 5.6ppg and 1.8rpg. He is an international player who is currently on the senior Lithuanian National Team roster.

   #11. International center Darjus Lavrinovic (212-79) is a teammate of previously mentioned Ramunas Siskauskas and both played together in the last Russian PBL game. Lavrinovic managed to help CSKA Moscow in a victory against the closely-ranked Khimky 79-61. He scored only 2 points in 8 minutes on the court. Lavrinovic is currently fourth on the list of best blockers with 0.9bpg. This year he also averages: 7.8ppg and 3.7rpg in the 19 games. Lavrinovic plays currently for the Lithuanian national team.

   #12. Former University international guard Rolandas Alijevas (192-85, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav) was not able to help one of league's weakest teams Krasnie Krilya in their game against Spartak Primorie Vladivostok in the Russian PBL. He scored 9 points, had 5 rebounds and dished 3 assists. His team was defeated 66-62. Alijevas has averaged so far 5.3ppg, 2.8rpg and 1.8apg. Despite he played previously for the Swiss national team, Alijevas is currently in the Lithuanian university national team roster.

   #13. Former University international center Michailis Anisimovas (214-84) was not able to secure a victory for Budivelnyk in their game against Ferro-ZNTU in the Ukrainian Superleague. He recorded 9 points in only 11 minutes. His team was badly defeated by 16 points 127-111. Anisimovas has averaged so far 9.7ppg and 3.5rpg in the 50 games. Despite he played previously for the Ukrainian national team, Anisimovas is currently in the Lithuanian university national team roster.

   #14. Former international power forward Tautvydas Lydeka (208-83) contributed to a Scavolini Pesaro's victory against the closely-ranked Bennet Cantu 91-78 in the Italian SerieA last Tuesday. He scored 7 points. Lydeka has averaged so far 7.6ppg and 4.7rpg. Despite he played previously for the Ukrainian national team, Lydeka is currently in the Lithuanian national team roster.

   #15. Former U21 international guard Linas Lekavicius (186-84, college: American) helped Universitet-Yugra win their game against the closely-ranked Ural Ekaterinburg 72-65 in the Russian Superleague (second division) on Tuesday night. He was the top player that evening. Lekavicius scored 22 points, grabbed 5 boards, dished 4 assists and stole 4 balls in 25 minutes. Lekavicius is currently fifth on the list of top scorers and also on the list of best passers (second place). He has very reliable stats this year: 13.9ppg, 4.9rpg, 5.1apg and 2.4spg in the 31 games. Despite Lekavicius played previously for the Ukrainian national team, he is currently in the Lithuanian U21 national team roster.


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

CIBACOPA Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Devon PEARSON
  Los M.
  (198-F-84)
  Avg: 27.4
 1. Pearson, Los M.27.4 
 2. Reese, Tepic24.4 
 3. Scott, Los Mochis23.3 
 4. Thomas, Cananea22.4 
 5. McCullough, Nogales22.2 
 6. Alexander, Cananea22.2 
 7. Robinson, Culiacan21.8 
 8. Carter, Guasave20.4 
 9. Selleaze, Navolato20.3 
 10. Wiley, Los Mochis19.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Deangelo RILEY
  Tepic
  (205-C-)
  Avg: 11.2
 1. Riley, Tepic11.2 
 2. Pearson, Los M.10.4 
 3. Alexander, Cananea9.8 
 4. Scott, Los Mochis8.4 
 5. Selleaze, Navolato8.4 
 6. Sanders-F., Nogales8.3 
 7. Robinson, Culiacan7.7 
 8. Moore, Navolato7.6 
 9. Habel, Guaymas7.4 
 10. Strobbe, Nogales7.3 
Assists Per Game
 William FUNN
  Los Mochis
  (188-G-82)
  Avg: 9.1
 1. Funn, Los Mochis9.1 
 2. Allen, Guaymas7.5 
 3. Taylor, Los Mochis5.8 
 4. Monreal, Hermosillo5.8 
 5. Nungaray, Guaymas4.8 
 6. Harris, Cananea4.6 
 7. Riley, Tepic4.1 
 8. Pulido, Culiacan4.0 
 9. Quintero, Tijuana3.8 
 10. Reatiga, Navolato3.5 
Steals Per Game
 Brian HAMILTON
  Hermosillo
  (198-F-82)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Hamilton, Hermosil.2.1 
 2. Gibson, Navolato1.6 
 3. Riley, Tepic1.5 
 4. Thomas, Cananea1.4 
 5. Toussaint, Los M.1.3 
 6. Buelna, Guasave1.3 
 7. Carter, Guasave1.3 
 8. Gale, Nogales1.3 
 9. Reatiga, Navolato1.2 
 10. Monreal, Hermosil.1.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Deangelo RILEY
  Tepic
  (205-C-)
  Avg: 3.5
 1. Riley, Tepic3.5 
 2. Zamora, Culiacan1.3 
 3. Habel, Guaymas1.3 
 4. Wiley, Los Mochis1.0 
 5. Alexander, Cananea0.9 
 6. Young, Tepic0.9 
 7. Davis, Nogales0.8 
 8. Tate, Tijuana0.8 
 9. Scott, Los Mochis0.8 
 10. McCullough, Nogal.0.8 


CIBACOPA Quarterfinals: Second games (best-of-seven) - by Eurobasket News

Los Mochis - Cananea 96-94 (2-0)
Mineros de Cananea was tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. Pioneros Los Mochis looked well-organized offensively handing out 30 assists. The game was dominated by American players. The best player for the winners was forward Seth Scott (208-81, college: Portland St.) who scored 30 points and 7 rebounds. Forward Devon Pearson (198-84, college: SMU) chipped in a double-double by scoring 26 points and 10 rebounds. Forward Derek Thomas (193-84, college: Appalachian St.) produced a double-double by scoring 25 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists and forward Rodney Alexander (201-87, college: Oklahoma City) added 22 points and 9 rebounds respectively for the guests. Four Pioneros Los Mochis and five Mineros de Cananea players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Los Mochis: S.Scott 30+7reb+3ast, D.Pearson 26+10reb+2ast, C.M. Toussaint 18+4reb+6ast, E.Cuen 10+11reb+4ast, W.Funn 7+7reb+14ast, E.Hare 3+1ast
Cananea: D.Thomas 25+10reb+5ast, R.Alexander 22+9reb+2ast, F.Harris 18+5reb+3ast, D.White 14+2reb+8ast, J.Arturo Farrera Chantiri 10+4reb+1ast, A.Vasquez 3+4reb+1ast
gschID: 177033


Hermosillo - Culiacan 95-84 (2-0)
The game was mostly controlled by Rayos de Hermosillo. Caballeros de Culiacan was better in fourth quarter 28-18. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Rayos de Hermosillo forced 19 Caballeros de Culiacan turnovers. It was a great shooting night for Rayos de Hermosillo especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 55.6 percentage. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 21 assists. American forward Patrick Sanders (198-85, college: Cal-Irvine) orchestrated the victory by scoring 23 points and 4 assists (was perfect 8-for-8 from the free throw line). The former international forward Jesus Lopez (205-83, college: SW Baptist) contributed with 18 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Rayos de Hermosillo's coach Dan Tacheny allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. American forward Rob Robinson (203-87, college: Robert Morris, agency: SDJ Sports) replied with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 11 rebounds and his fellow American import swingman Rene Rougeau (198-86, college: UNLV, agency: ProSportsCareers) added 21 points and 10 rebounds in the effort for Caballeros de Culiacan. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Hermosillo: P.Sanders 23+4reb+4ast, J.Lopez 18+6reb+3ast, S.Monreal 16+6reb+2ast, B.Hamilton 13+5reb+4ast, J.Camacho 9+7reb, J.Coronado 8+1reb
Culiacan: R.Robinson 22+11reb+1ast, R.Rougeau 21+10reb+1ast, J.Gonzalez 17+6reb, V.Avila 13+10reb, R.Zamora 4+5reb+1ast, L.Lopez 3+1ast
gschID: 177030


Guaymas - Nogales 89-75 (2-0)
The game was mostly controlled by Ostioneros de Guaymas. Fuerza Guinda Nogales was better in fourth quarter 22-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Ostioneros de Guaymas players were unselfish on offense dishing 25 assists. American guard Haakim Johnson (201-87, college: Pikeville) orchestrated the victory by scoring 23 points and 7 rebounds. The other American import point guard Myron Allen (182-79, college: Lee JC) contributed with 9 points, 10 assists and 5 steals for the winners. Ostioneros de Guaymas' coach LaSelle Taylor used entire bench which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Guard Brandon Heredia (180-85, college: Lon Morris JC) replied with 20 points and 4 assists and American swingman O'Louis McCullough (198-82, college: Francis Marion) added 11 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Fuerza Guinda Nogales.
Top scorers:
Guaymas: H.Johnson 23+7reb+3ast, A.Pedroza 18+2reb+2ast, J.Habel 14+5reb+4ast, M.Allen 9+4reb+10ast, H.Carrillo 6+1reb, F.Benitez 6+5reb+2ast
Nogales: B.Heredia 20+2reb+4ast, O.McCullough 11+6reb, V.Rojo 11+1reb+1ast, J.Mercado 8+2reb+1ast, R.George 7+2reb+2ast, C.Estrada 6+1reb+2ast
gschID: 177031


Tijuana - Guasave 115-76 (2-0)
Frayles de Guasave was tied at the half but could not keep up in last two quarters eventually losing the game. Tijuana Zonkeys dominated down low during the game scoring 68 of its points in the paint compared to Frayles de Guasave's 44 and made 23-of-27 charity shots (85.2 percent) during the game. They outrebounded Frayles de Guasave 45-25 including a 35-18 advantage in defensive rebounds. Tijuana Zonkeys players were unselfish on offense dishing 29 assists. American power forward Robert Hornsby (196-82, college: Troy) orchestrated the victory by scoring 27 points, 7 rebounds and 9 assists (was perfect 7-for-7 from the free throw line). The other American import power forward Cyrus Tate (203-85, college: Iowa, agency: Edge Sports) contributed with a double-double by scoring 21 points and 13 rebounds for the winners. Tijuana Zonkeys' coach Luis Lopez felt very confident that he used 11 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American guard Russell Carter (196-85, college: Notre Dame) replied with 18 points and 4 assists and American-Libyan center Hiram Fuller (206-81, college: Fresno St.) added 15 points and 7 rebounds in the effort for Frayles de Guasave. Five Tijuana Zonkeys and four Frayles de Guasave players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Tijuana: R.Hornsby 27+7reb+9ast, C.Tate 21+13reb+2ast, L.Ramirez 20+2reb+2ast, M.Morrison 18+7reb+4ast, O.Quintero 14+2reb+8ast, A.Solares 8+2reb+2ast
Guasave: R.Carter 18+3reb+4ast, H.Fuller 15+7reb, M.Dorsey 12+1reb+6ast, A.Izaguirre 11+4reb+4ast, G.Giron 9+4reb+1ast, V.Buelna 9+2reb+1ast


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


Interview with Nemanja Djurisic, University of Georgia freshman - by Darko Pekic

Podgorica native Nemanja Djurisic (203-F-92) had a solid first NCAA season. He scored 7.0 ppg and 4.2 ppg in 19.8 minutes per game on the floor while playing for a basketball program that has produced many NBA players. Unfortunately, he will not be able to help U21 National Team of Montenegro this summer in the efforts to qualify for the European Championship but bright future is ahead of him.

Hello Nemanja, could you tell us something about your basketball beginnings? Why have you chosen to play basketball?

I started playing basketball when I was about 12 years old. Having tried all possible sports from football to karate at the end and I had to try basketball also, thanks to my brother who forced me to give it a try.

Who was your first coach and who should be 'blamed' for the progress of your basketball career?

My first coaches were the ones who actually recognized me as a talent. Igor Peric and Sasa Lazic both tried to introduce me to the basketball world and teach me fundamentals of basketball. I also learned a lot from the coach Dile Jovanovic from Buducnost where I spent maybe the most beautiful moments in my career in the youth categories. Coaches Rakocevic and Radonjic gave me a chance to finally test my skills with the older players which brought a dose of seriousness in my basketball career.

Your talent was soon recognized and you gtt the call to join the U16 National Team of Montenegro and participated in the European B Championships in Skopje (Macedonia) in 2007 and then in Sarajevo (Bosnia) in 2008 where you won a silver medal. At the U18 European Championship B to 18 in Israel with the national team of Montenegro you won the bronze medal and were on the top in 3 points percentages (54.5%). What kind memories link you to that period?

These are beautiful memories and experiences that I am very proud on. I spent four years on that team and remember every summer in a different way. Unfortunately due to commitments to faculty and health problems, I was not able to continue this series.

You got a chance in the first team of Buducnost, led by Dejan Radonjic (agency: Beo Basket ), and felt the atmosphere in the senior competition. Did you have problems to adopt and what the name Buducnost means to you?

I am a child of Buducnost and many beautiful moments link me to that club. I have had and still have very correct relationship with the coaching staff and colleagues because I have learned from them a lot when I was younger.

I was accepted in a nice way and immediately I felt the attention around me which gave me a feeling of confidence.

After that you decided to go to South Kent, a Connecticut high school where today's NBA players Dorell Wright (206-F-85), Isaiah Thomas (172-PG-89, college: Washington) and Andray Blatche (211-F/C-86) have started their playing career, and where soon you became one of the leaders of the team with 20.1 points per match and 10.3 rebounds . Why did you choose United states even though you already had the open door of Buducnost and were expected to make a successful career in European basketball?

I wanted new experiences and to try the competition as it was in college. The school has played a big role because I heard a lot of good thing about american school system. It took me a while to adapt to the style of basketball and life but now I'm even more proud of my decision and ready to achieve my goals to end.

How much difficult was getting accustomed to the American basketball? How does it differ from the European?

It differs in many ways and it is something to what I had to get used to at first but I worked with great patience and I managed to get used to and convince the coaches from the University of Georgia to take me. The rules are easy to learn but its harder to get used on the physical style of play in a league full of strong athletes. Players in my league are strong, fast and explosive and they are great individual players as well. European basketball is more based on the team game and slow attacks while the American style is opposite.

Excellent season at South Kent opened you the door of many famous colleges, among whom were Arizona, East Carolina, Kansas. Why did you choose Georgia, a university that had on the past Damien Wilkins (201-G/F-80, agency: Priority Sports, college: Georgia), Jarvis Hayes (201-G/F-81, agency: David Lee services, college: Georgia) and Jumaine Jones (203-F-79, college: Georgia)?

Well, considering the fact that they showed great interest and that after the departure of two players to the NBA they had space in the roster I somehow I felt that I would get a chance there.I'm happy with my decision because I like Georgia basketball program and living conditions there.

In your first season at the college you had some good games and did not disappoint in general. Coach Mark Fox will be able to count on you in the ucoming seasons for sure. How satisfied are you with the last season and where you see room for individual improvement next season?

Well I'm pleased considering that I had some minor injuries during the season and that I was not physically ready to compete with opposing players at the beginning of the season. As time went on I got more confidence and more opportunities to showcase my skills and I think I did not disappoint him. I think I had a modest freshman year but it will certainly stimulate me to work even harder next year. I should work more in the gym and prepare my body so that I could make a bigger impact in the paint next year. Also some additional work on my long range shoot would be necessary.

What are your future plans? Do you see your future in the NBA or you will return to European basketball?

I think I have time to think about it later. I want to dedicate myself to school and basketball and achieve success in both fields. Later of course I would like to continue to play basketball because it is something that I love and what fulfills me.

Thank you for the interview Nemanja. Eurobasket.com wishes you a lot of success in the upcoming season!

Thank you for inviting me to do this interview. I wish you all the best.


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

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Kobe BRYANT
  LA Lakers
  (198-G-78)
  Avg: 28.2
 1. Bryant, LA Lakers28.2 
 2. Durant, Oklah.Ci.27.9 
 3. James, Miami Heat27.4 
 4. Love, Minnesota T.26.0 
 5. Westbrook, Oklah..23.7 
 6. Anthony, New Y.23.1 
 7. Wade, Miami Heat22.4 
 8. Nowitzki, Dallas M.22.0 
 9. Rose, Chicago B.21.9 
 10. Aldridge, Portlan.21.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Dwight HOWARD
  Orlando M.
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 14.5
 1. Howard, Orlando M.14.5 
 2. Love, Minnesota T.13.4 
 3. Bynum, LA Lakers11.7 
 4. Humphries, New J.11.0 
 5. Cousins, Sacramen.11.0 
 6. Gasol, LA Lakers10.3 
 7. Griffin, LA Clipp.10.3 
 8. Gortat, Phoenix10.0 
 9. Smith, Atlanta H.9.9 
 10. Chandler, New Y.9.8 
Assists Per Game
 Rajon RONDO
  Boston C.
  (185-PG-86)
  Avg: 11.8
 1. Rondo, Boston C.11.8 
 2. Nash, Phoenix Suns10.7 
 3. Paul, LA Clippers8.9 
 4. Calderon, Toron.8.8 
 5. Williams, New J.8.7 
 6. Rubio, Minnesot.8.2 
 7. Wall, Washington W.8.0 
 8. Rose, Chicago B.7.9 
 9. Parker, San A.7.6 
 10. Conley, Memphis G.6.7 
Steals Per Game
 Chris PAUL
  LA Clippers
  (183-PG-85)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Paul, LA Clippers2.5 
 2. Rubio, Minnesot.2.2 
 3. Conley, Memphis G.2.1 
 4. Rondo, Boston C.1.9 
 5. James, Miami Heat1.9 
 6. Millsap, Utah Jazz1.8 
 7. Kidd, Dallas M.1.8 
 8. Ariza, N.Orleans H.1.7 
 9. Shumpert, New Y.1.7 
 10. Wade, Miami Heat1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Serge IBAKA
  Oklah.Ci.
  (208-C/F-89)
  Avg: 3.7
 1. Ibaka, Oklah.Ci.3.7 
 2. McGee, Washingt.2.5 
 3. Howard, Orlando M.2.1 
 4. Bynum, LA Lakers2.1 
 5. Hibbert, Indiana P.2.1 
 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 


Wade scores 41, Heat eliminate Pacers 105-93 - by Eurobasket News

Miami's Big Two was more than enough to finish off the Indiana Pacers.

Dwyane Wade (6'4''-G-82, college: Marquette) and LeBron James (6'8''-F-84) turned around a season on the brink with perhaps the most remarkable week of their high-powered partnership, capped off by a 105-93 victory in Game 6 Thursday night that sent the Heat back to the Eastern Conference finals.

Wade scored 41 points, James had 28 and Miami wrapped up the series 4-2, advancing to face either Boston or Philadelphia.

But this was about more than one game.

This was a dazzling trilogy, Wade and James taking control when the Heat were down and looked like they might be out.

'In the regular season, we've had some good games,' Wade said. 'But I don't know if we've ever had three in a row like that in the playoffs.'

Seven days earlier, Miami trailed 2-1 in the series after getting routed 94-75 in Indianapolis. The fired-up Pacers had another game on their home court and a chance to build a commanding lead.

Instead, the Big Three-Turned-Two took over.

With Chris Bosh (6'11''-F-84, college: Georgia Tech) sidelined by an abdominal injury, James and Wade soared to new heights in their two-man game. Over the course of three dazzling games, James scored 98 points, grabbed 34 rebounds and dished out 24 assists. Wade had 99 points, 22 rebounds and 11 assists.

'Ever since Game 3, they've played at such a high level,' Indiana coach Frank Vogel said. 'I don't know if anybody can beat them.'

Next up, either the Celtics or 76ers in a series that starts Monday in Miami. Of course, nothing less than an NBA title will make for a satisfying summer in South Beach.

Two series down, two to go.

The Heat rallied from an early 11-point deficit, riding the hot hand of Wade in the opening half. He scored 26 points by the break, tying Tim Hardaway's 16-year-old franchise record for most playoff points in the first two quarters. James hit consecutive baskets with just over a minute remaining to close it out.

'We understand that when Chris went out, we had to step up,' Wade said. 'The team looked to us to lead.'

The banged-up Heat will get a chance to relax a couple of days before worrying about the next opponent, which will be determined in Game 7 at Boston on Saturday.

Bosh hopes to return at some point, but it might not matter.

Not the way Wade and James are playing.

'Chris Bosh is an awesome basketball player, but when he goes down, that just means more touches for LeBron and Wade,' Vogel said. 'That's not exactly an advantage.'

David West (6'8''-F-80, college: Xavier) led Indiana with 24 points and all five starters were in double figures. But that balance was overwhelmed by Wade and James.

In a game of spurts, the decisive one came in the closing minutes of the third quarter.

The Pacers tied it at 66 on Darren Collison's 3-pointer, but it was all Heat the rest of the period. They closed on a 13-3 run, capped by Mario Chalmers' buzzer-beating 3 from the corner. Wade, who was on the bench getting his customary breather at the end of the quarter, leaped from his seat as the ball left Chalmers' hand at the far end, raced along the baseline and pumped his fist when it swished.

When Chalmers raced toward the Miami bench, Wade greeted him near the free throw line with a low-five.

'We just had a bad stretch,' West said. 'They got us in the third quarter.'

Cheerleading aside, D-Wade did his best work while in the game. He dropped 11-of-16 shooting on the Pacers in the first half, but also made sure the MVP stayed involved, dishing off a behind-the-back pass to James for a thunderous jam.

'They're too good. They capitalize on your mistakes,' West said. 'We were too loose with the ball. They pressure you all over the place.'

Indiana clamped down a bit on Wade after halftime, but he still managed perhaps his most jaw-dropping basket. Darting into the lane, he threw up a wild-looking, one-handed shot that looked like it might go over the backboard, only to catch the top of the glass and drop through, barely touching the twine.

There was none of the nastiness that marked Game 5, when a bunch of flagrant fouls resulted in suspensions for two Miami players, co-captain Udonis Haslem and backup center Dexter Pittman. Pacers president Larry Bird was so disgusted with his team's performance in a 95-86 loss that he accused them of going 'soft.'

Toughness wasn't the problem this time. This was merely a Miami team on a mission, a mission that began in the summer of 2010 when the Heat signed James and Bosh to join Wade in a seemingly unbeatable trio. There was a glitzy introduction and predictions of multiple championships, which left the rest of the league seething and plenty of people cheering when Miami was knocked off in the NBA finals by the Dallas Mavericks last season.

Shaking off that disappointment, James had perhaps his greatest season yet. But it was Wade who took control in the decisive game against the Pacers, delivering one final blow when he split West and George Hill, banking in the shot despite taking a knee from Hill that sent the Heat guard tumbling to the court.

'We just didn't have enough yet,' Vogel said, 'but we'll be back.'

Chalmers finished with 15 points, while Mike Miller stepped up to provide some quality minutes, scoring 12 points on four 3-pointers to help fill the void without Haslem, Pittman and Bosh.

When Miller wasn't in the game, he stretched out along the baseline to cope with his various aches and pains, more comfortable that way than sitting in a chair. When coach Erik Spoelstra called his number, Miller summoned several of his teammates to help lift him up.

'He might be the toughest guy on the team,' Wade said.

The Pacers started out like they were intent on sending the series back to Miami for a decisive game that surely would have had all of South Florida on edge.

West knocked down a short jumper right off the tip, Danny Granger (6'8''-F-83, agency: Priority Sports, college: N.Mexico) stuffed one off a fast break, and the Pacers had their yellow-clad fans in a tizzy when Granger connected on a 3-pointer to make it 13-3 before the game was 5 minutes old. Another basket by Granger, this one a turnaround jumper, gave the Pacers their biggest lead at 19-8.

But Miami wasn't going to roll over that easy. Miller made the first of his 3s in the closing seconds of the first quarter, and Wade took over from there. He started the period by banking in a 12-footer, then made another short jumper to leave the crowd stirring uneasily. Miller followed with another 3 and just like that, it was all tied up.

Yet another 3 by Miller, this one a good 5 feet beyond the arc, gave Miami its biggest lead of the half, 41-35. Back came the Pacers, who went to the locker room with a 53-51 lead and hope of extending their season for at least one more game.

Turns out, they were down to their last half.

Courtesy of http://news.yahoo.com


Beno Udrih will be back with Bucks - by Eurobasket News

Milwaukee Bucks backup point guard Beno Udrih (6'5''-PG-82) has picked up the player option on his contract and will return to the team for the 2012-'13 season, general manager John Hammond confirmed Wednesday.

Udrih has a player option worth $7.8 million for next season, the final year of a multiyear deal he signed as a member of the Sacramento Kings.

Udrih, 30, was acquired by the Bucks in a three-team trade last year and averaged 5.9 points and 3.8 assists while playing in 59 games.

The eight-year veteran did not play as much as he had the previous season with Sacramento, logging 18.3 per game after playing a career-best 34.6 per game for the Kings during the 2010-'11 season.

Udrih emerged as the primary backup to starting point guard Brandon Jennings and was instrumental in the Bucks' improved offense, which ranked fifth in the league in scoring.

The Bucks ranked third in the league in assists with 23.48 per game, trailing only Denver and Boston.

Udrih and Mike Dunleavy Jr. were leaders of a bench unit that proved to be a strength.

The 6-foot-3 Slovenian finished with a plus-215 plus/minus rating, leading the team in overall plus/minus and on a per game basis.

Udrih's shooting numbers fell off from the previous season. He shot 44% from the field and 28.8% from three-point range, but he attempted only 59 three-pointers after attempting 182 the previous year with Sacramento.

He had four or more assists in 19 games, including a season-high 10 at Cleveland on March 30. His season-high point total was 21 against Portland on April 7.

Courtesy of The Journal Sentinel


Pacers agree with Bird's 'soft' comment, but not LeBron - by Eurobasket News

Larry Bird called the Indiana Pacers soft. His team agreed. LeBron James (6'8''-F-84) thought otherwise.

Bird told the Indianapolis Star early Wednesday that he 'can't believe my team went soft' after the Pacers were beaten 115-83 in Game 5 of an Eastern Conference semifinal series Tuesday night against the Miami Heat.

Miami leads the series 3-2, with Game 6 on Thursday in Indianapolis.

Tuesday's game in Miami was marred by three flagrant fouls -- one committed by Indiana's Tyler Hansbrough against Dwyane Wade, another by Miami's Udonis Haslem against Hansbrough moments after Wade was bloodied. The last was a particularly hard play by Heat reserve center Dexter Pittman against the Pacers' Lance Stephenson in the final seconds.

'I agree with his assessment. We did play soft,' Indiana's Danny Granger said Wednesday. 'We got smacked around. We got beat up, we got bullied, and we really didn't respond well.

'I've been with Larry since I've been in Indiana for seven years,' Granger added. 'He's not been one to hold his tongue, and 99 percent of the time what he's saying is right. I think he just called out what everyone else saw. We played a soft game. We didn't play with the playoff intensity that we needed to win.'

Granger was in flip-flops when Wednesday's practice ended, saying the left ankle he sprained in Game 5 was still painful. Stephenson, who had X-rays taken to rule out any fractures to his collarbone or shoulder areas, did not practice.

'In my mind, I'm going to play,' Granger said. 'Elimination game, I have to play.'

Vogel sounded concerned, but optimistic.

'Very much hoping he'll be available tomorrow,' Vogel said. 'He's a gamer. I'm thinking he'll play. But his ankle's pretty bad, so we'll see.'

The Heat had a different reaction to Bird's comments. With the Pacers facing a win-or-else game Thursday, James thought Bird -- recently announced as the league's executive of the year -- wanted to provide extra incentive for Indiana.

'He's just trying to amp them up. That's all. That's all it is,' James said. 'He knows his team isn't soft. But with them, with their backs against the wall at this point, he knows what he's doing. He's not the executive of the year for no reason.'

All three of the flagrant fouls called Tuesday were category-1, meaning no players were automatically ejected. The league has a wide range of options available for its review process, including upgrading those fouls to category-2. The NBA could also issue fines and suspensions.

'I expect they will. That game was nationally televised,' Granger said. 'A lot of people saw the plays. I think they have to.'

The NBA had made no public comment before either team finished practices Wednesday.

'All the chatter and all the stuff, it'll still end up being decided between the lines,' Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said. 'And it'll be decided by the rules of the game.'

Wade sounded somewhat amused that Granger -- who's been whistled for three technicals in the series -- was one of the Pacers suggesting Haslem and Pittman should be suspended. Wade and Granger have had words during the series.

'We're not in here crying about the fouls,' Wade said. 'They fouled us. ... We're moving on to Game 6. We're not going to worry about what happened in Game 5. For us, it's about moving forward.'

There were a number of other hard fouls in Game 5 that were not considered flagrant but continued the trend of what's become a physical series. Indiana forward David West -- who left Tuesday's game with what the team called a sprained knee, though he insisted Wednesday he was not hurt -- took exception to a play where he was knocked backward, saying a Heat player fell into his knee.

Not long afterward, he fouled James, who said he saw it coming.

'He was the one on the floor and I was the one still standing,' James said. 'So I started laughing at that. But he tried to get me.'

Indiana coach Frank Vogel called Miami floppers before the series started, and it's been gritty throughout. The teams combined to shoot 66 free throws in Game 1, and there have been a combined nine technicals and flagrants called in the four games since. Other dustups included Stephenson making a choke sign that television cameras caught during Game 3, and Juwan Howard confronting him about his antics before Game 4.

'It's been a physical series, started by them,' Wade said.

The Pacers practiced in Miami before flying home Wednesday, a somewhat uncommon move but one that Vogel wanted in an effort to keep his team on a relatively normal sleep schedule.

Courtesy of www.cbssports.com


Source: Lamar Odom prefers Knicks - by Eurobasket News

Who will Lamar Odom (6'10''-F-79, college: Rhode Island) play for next season? That's currently out of his control. He's under contract with the Dallas Mavericks, who likely will trade him or waive him.

But a source with knowledge of Odom's thinking says the New York Knicks would be 'on the top of his list' if the Queens native becomes a free agent.

'Lamar is big on being comfortable,' the source said. 'And New York is somewhere he can be comfortable.'

The Knicks' interest in Odom is unclear at this point.

They likely will be limited in their spending this summer. New York is expected to use its mid-level exception to retain restricted free-agent Jeremy Lin, which would leave the organization with little money to spend on free agents.

It's also unclear at this point if Odom will become a free agent.

The Mavs are expected to attempt to trade Odom before June 29. Any team that has Odom on its roster on that date must buy him out for $2.4 million or otherwise accept responsibility for the full $8.2 million that Odom is scheduled to earn in 2012-13.

If Dallas can't deal Odom in a trade, it likely will waive him and be responsible for paying him $2.4 million in guaranteed money. That's something Dallas would rather avoid.

If Odom is waived by Dallas, he would be a free agent. In that scenario, he'd likely have to take a significant pay cut from the $8.2 million he was scheduled to make this season to sign with another team.

But if New York comes calling, Odom will be interested.

'He wants to find a place where he can end his career, and New York is ideal,' the source said. 'He's won championships in the past and he wants to win another. And to do it there would be great.'

It makes sense that Odom would be open to a return to New York.

His versatility -- interior scoring and rebounding in particular -- would be of great value to the Knicks' second unit. He proved in Los Angeles that he can thrive off the bench in a supporting role on a team with stars in its starting five. Odom helped the Lakers win two titles in that role.

He's also coming off a season in which his value has taken a significant hit.

A rocky year in Dallas ended with Odom spending the final nine games of the regular season on the inactive list. The Mavericks placed Odom on the inactive list as a way to sever ties while retaining the ability to trade him.

The 33-year-old's stint in Dallas was heavy on drama and light on production. During halftime of his final game with the Mavs, Odom and team owner Mark Cuban had a heated exchange in the locker room.

Earlier in the season, Odom took a 10-game hiatus from the team for personal reasons. After the team placed Odom on the inactive list, Cuban said he'd hoped Odom's departure was 'addition by subtraction.'

The 13-year veteran averaged career lows of 6.6 points and 4.1 rebounds in 20.5 minutes per game in Dallas.

The source close to Odom said Odom is eager to put the experience past him. Odom has started offseason workouts already, with eyes on an Olympic roster spot and with the motivation to prove that he's a better player than the one who struggled through last season.

'It definitely won't be the fiasco that it was last year,' the source said of Odom's approach to 2012-13.

Courtesy of ESPN


Heat's LeBron James leads NBA all-defensive team - by Eurobasket News

NBA Most Valuable Player LeBron James (6'8''-F-84) was the leading vote-getter for the league's all-defensive squad Wednesday, while Defensive Player of the Year Tyson Chandler (7'1''-C-82) didn't even crack the first team.

Confused? So were plenty of others - even a Harvard graduate.

Jeremy Lin (6'3''-PG-88, college: Harvard), Chandler's teammate in New York, took to Twitter to ask for an explanation of how that was possible.

The answer is because the voting is done by different parties. A media panel voted for Defensive Player of the Year, while the all-defensive team vote was conducted by the league's 30 head coaches, who voted for a first and second team by position and were not allowed to pick their own players.

They favored Orlando's Dwight Howard (6'11''-C-85), the NBA's leading rebounder and its top defensive player three straight years before Chandler, as their center.

Also on the first team were Thunder forward Serge Ibaka (6'10''-C/F-89), who led the league in blocks and was runner-up to Chandler for Defensive Player of the Year; Clippers guard Chris Paul (6'0''-PG-85, college: Wake Forest), the league leader in steals; and Grizzlies guard Tony Allen (6'4''-G-82, college: Oklahoma St.).

Ibaka and Allen earned first-team honors for the first time.

James totaled 53 points, including 24 first-team votes. He averaged 1.9 steals and 7.9 rebounds as Miami ranked fourth in the league in opponent scoring.

Joining on Chandler on the second team were Rajon Rondo (6'1''-PG-86, college: Kentucky) and Kevin Garnett (6'11''-F-76) of the Celtics, Lakers guard Kobe Bryant (6'6''-G-78), and Chicago forward Luol Deng (6'9''-F-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Duke).

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com


NBA suspends Miami Heats Udonis Haslem one game, Dexter Pittman three - by Eurobasket News

Already without Chris Bosh (6'11''-F-84, college: Georgia Tech), the Miami Heat's depleted power rotation took another hit Wednesday evening when the NBA suspended power forward Udonis Haslem (6'8''-F-80, college: Florida) for one game and seldom-used center Dexter Pittman (6'10''-C-88, college: Texas) for three games as a result of flagrant fouls in Game 5 of the playoff series against the Indiana Pacers.

Haslem and Pittman will miss Thursdays Game 6 in Indianapolis, when the Heat will try to close out the series.

Haslems foul was upgraded to a Flagrant Two, and the NBA said he was suspended for striking the head and shoulders of Pacers forward Tyler Hansbrough in the second quarter. Haslem would have been ejected during Game 5 if it had been called a Flagrant Two at the time.

Hansbroughs foul, which was committed several minutes earlier against Dwyane Wade, also was upgraded Wednesday to a Flagrant Two, but the NBA decided not to suspend him. Hansbroughs foul resulted in a cut above Wades eye, and Wade called it uncalled for.

Without Haslem, the Heat will need to split minutes at power forward between Shane Battier and starting small forward LeBron James, with Ronny Turiaf and Joel Anthony sharing time at center.

Were going to put together an effort that would make Udonis and Dexter proud, Battier said.

Haslems suspension is potentially problematic, not only because of the loss of his rebounding and defense in Boshs absence, but also because he has regained his shooting touch, making 10 of 12 shots over the past two games.

The Heat will not be permitted to fill their spots on the active roster, meaning Miami will have 11 players not the usual 13 available for Game 6. Neither Haslem nor Pittman will be paid during their suspensions, and though they flew to Indianapolis, they cannot attend Game 6.

Earlier Wednesday, before the suspensions were announced, Haslem said he expected to play in Game 6.

Pacers forward Danny Granger, who said he expects to play in Game 6 despite an ankle injury, compared Haslems foul to Lakers forward Metta World Peaces elbow to the head of Oklahoma Citys James Harden, which drew a seven-game suspension.

To which Haslem responded: Im not interested in no Danny Granger.

Wade, informed of Grangers comparison, said: Oh, my God and dismissed the idea. Late Tuesday, Granger referred to this series as the Wild, Wild West.

Wade said its hilarious that Granger talks about altercations that are going on because hes done a lot of the altercations.

Wade said he told Granger, No ones out to fight. So lets stop acting like it.

As for Pittman, his suspension stems from striking Lance Stephenson in the neck and shoulder late in the game.

Pittman winked after delivering the hit, suggesting the foul might be connected to Stephenson making a choke sign when James was shooting a free throw in Game 3.
Stephenson said he is not angry and does not believe the incidents were related. Its a good foul, Stephenson said. Pacers coach Frank Vogel said Stephenson was sore and did not practice Wednesday.

Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com


Warriors plan move, new arena in San Francisco for 2017-18 season - by Eurobasket News

Mayor Edwin M. Lee today announced that the Golden State Warriors plan to build a new sports and entertainment arena on the waterfront in San Francisco in time for the 2017-18 NBA season. The privately financed arena will be located at Piers 30-32 on San Francisco Bay, south of the Bay Bridge, between the Ferry Building and AT&T Park.

We are working with the Warriors to get a state-of-the-art, multi-purpose arena built on the waterfront in San Francisco and completed in 2017, said Lee. The Warriors have been the Bay Areas basketball team for 50 years, and today sets the stage for the Warriors to be the Bay Areas team for another 50. This project will provide millions of dollars in new tax revenue for San Francisco over the long term for services local residents need, including public safety, parks, public transit, pothole repair, youth programs and senior services.

Building a world-class, state-of-the-art sports and entertainment facility will create thousands of new jobs for local residents, said Warriors Co-Executive Chairman and CEO Joe Lacob. We are pleased to be privately financing the arena with no money from the Citys general fund and no new taxes and look forward to providing an incredible entertainment experience for Bay Area fans.

The new facility will host the Bay Areas NBA basketball team, as well as provide a spectacular new venue for top-tier concerts, cultural events and conventions, prominent events the City currently cannot accommodate. The new arena will be located in an incredibly transit- and pedestrian-rich location, with a Muni Metro stop at its doorstep, and only a few blocks from Embarcadero Station and the new Transbay Transit Center.

With convenient options for BART, Muni, CalTrain and ferry service, this will be one of the most transit-friendly facilities in the nation, said Warriors Co-Executive Chairman Peter Guber. We know thats important for our fans and a real positive to this location.

Under the agreement, the City will provide the land and the Warriors will pay to repair the crumbling piers, and privately finance the arena project. The cost of repairs is estimated at $75 to $100 million.

In addition to the creation of thousands of new jobs for Bay Area residents, the new arena will generate hundreds of millions of dollars in new economic growth and activity for the City.

Games, concerts, conventions and other events will bring people from all over the region, and the money they spend will directly benefit local businesses, said San Francisco Travel President & CEO Joe DAlessandro.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com


Shaquille O'Neal to discuss Magic GM opening - by Eurobasket News

The Big General Manager could be added to Shaquille O'Neal's (7'2''-C-72, college: LSU) long list of nicknames sometime soon.

The TNT analyst will meet with the Orlando Magic next week to discuss the teams GM opening, according to an ESPN report.

Coach Stan Van Gundy was fired Monday, and GM Otis Smith and the team mutually agreed to part ways.

USA TODAY Sports learned that ONeal had interest specifically in Orlandos GM job, as a former Magic center himself, as early as two weeks ago, according to a person with knowledge of ONeals interest who requested anonymity because of the sensitivity of the situation.

ONeal, who retired after last season, spent four years as the Magics starting center, leading the NBA in scoring during the 1994-95 season and guiding the team to the 1995 NBA Finals.

If hired, itd certainly be an interesting challenge for ONeal to pilot the Magic with the hopes of convincing All-Star center Dwight Howard to do the opposite of what he did as a player: not flee Orlando. The franchise is trying to retain Howard. ONeal left Orlando to play for the Los Angeles Lakers.

Magic vice president of communications Joel Glass told USA TODAY Sports on Wednesday night, In order to not compromise our search, we are not discussing the process or timetable.

Courtesy of USA Today


Granger to give it a go in crucial game 6. - by Bryan Floyd

Danny Granger (6'8''-F-83, agency: Priority Sports, college: N.Mexico) will play in Game 6 on Thursday. Granger will be out there giving his best and hopefully the home crowd and adrenaline will allow him to play well. Head Coach Frank Vogel confirmed that Granger will be in the starting lineup, but he'll be less than 100 percent. The Pacers cannot win without Granger's defense on LeBron and his scoring. It will be interesting to see how Granger and the Pacers respond in a must-win Game 6. Dahntay Jones and Paul George will be ready to play extra minutes should Granger be ineffective.


Mirza Teletovic close to the New Jersey Nets! - by Chris Mathieu

Mirza Teletovic (206-F-85, agency: Beo Basket) close to the New Jersey Nets!
Basketball great Mirza Teletovic is said to have mutual interest signing with the New Jersey Nets. The owner of the Nets Mikhail Prokhorov is a big fan of Mirza and the front office of the Nets believe he would make a good fit with Deron Williams.
Mirza has been the best forward in Europe the last few years and has improved every season as a professional. From his dominating start with Sloboda Dita Tuzla scoring 27.5ppg as a 17 year old kid, to his time spent in Belgium and the last six seasons in Spain, Mirza has a proven track record of being a real professional. His is good enough of an athlete to play in the NBA and the skills to be a very good scorer for a quality team.
The question is will the money be enough to lure him from a comfortable situation in Spain where he is a star, to taking a chance on establishing himself as an NBA player. Mirza is a supreme competitor who would appear to be up to the challenge of establishing himself as a quality NBA player.
It is surprising he hasnt had a serious offer before now by an NBA franchise. He isnt the only Bosnian who should be drawing considerable interest by the NBA. Fellow Spanish league player Mirza Begic displays more than enough physical talent and skill to play 15-18 minutes on a quality NBA team.


Mike Malone interested in being Blazers next head coach - by Eurobasket News

Golden State Warriors' assistant coach, Michael Malone, is viewed by most as the hottest head coaching candidate out on the market. CSNNW.com has learned that Malone would have a great deal of interest in the Portland Trail Blazers head coaching position, according to multiple sources.

When pressed, his agent, Steve Kauffman, who does not like to discuss these matters publicly, admitted that Portland is a prime situation for any potential head coach.

'The Blazers have great ownership, it's a beautiful diverse city and probably has the best fans in the NBA,' Kauffman told CSNNW.com.

Malone, 39, was named the best assistant coach in the league in an NBA.com GM survey. He has interviewed for the Charlotte Bobcats head coaching vacancy and will be looked at by the Orlando Magic shortly.

Speaking of the Magic, Malone is the son of Orlando's assistant coach Brendan Malone.

The Trail Blazers are in the process of a thorough search for their next general manger and president Larry Miller says the ideal situation is to allow the next general manger to bring in his own staff.

However, Miller has said if there's a coach of interest available, they will not hesitate to change plans and pursue that individual.

CSNNW.com spoke with Miller on Monday and he said they're still focused primarily on the general manager search.

With a prospect as coveted a Malone, why wait?

It's been over a year since the Trail Blazers have had a general manager in place and their timing could come to bite them on the backside if this search is prolonged any further.

The Trail Blazers could miss out on key coaching candidates.

It's very possible the Los Angeles Clippers and Lakers very well could be looking for their next head coach real soon and you can bet Malone will be on their short list, as well.

After this 28-38 season the Trail Blazers just endured, a spicy name such as Malone to go with (potentially) a couple of first round picks in the upcoming NBA Draft is exactly the kind of splash this organization needs this off-season.

No one truly knows how good of a head coach Malone will be, but If the majority of the league thinks he's one of the up-and-coming great coaches in the association, the decision to interview Malone immediately should be automatic on the Trail Blazers' part.

Malone has 11 years of NBA coaching experience with previous stints in New York, Cleveland, and New Orleans.

Courtesy of www.csnnw.com


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

Stats Leaders - NCAA1

Points Per Game
 Will BARTON
  Memphis
  (198-G-91)
  Avg: 18
 1. Barton, Memphis18.0 
 2. Kane, Marshall16.6 
 3. Clarkson, Tulsa16.5 
 4. Moore, UAB16.1 
 5. Bazemore, ODU15.4 
 6. Paul, E.Carolina15.2 
 7. Tarrant, Tulane14.9 
 8. Nyakundi, SMU14.8 
 9. Simmons, Houston14.7 
 10. Clanton, Cent.Flo.14.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Cameron MOORE
  UAB
  (208-F-90)
  Avg: 10.5
 1. Moore, UAB10.5 
 2. Kazemi, Rice10.3 
 3. Cooper, ODU10.1 
 4. Tinnon, Marshall9.9 
 5. Davis, Tulane9.2 
 6. Thomas, Houston8.2 
 7. Clanton, Cent.Flor.8.1 
 8. Barton, Memphis8.0 
 9. Bohannon, UTEP7.3 
 10. Soko, UAB6.8 
Assists Per Game
 Miguel PAUL
  E.Carolina
  (190-G-90)
  Avg: 5.9
 1. Paul, E.Carolina5.9 
 2. Rompza, Cent.Flo.4.5 
 3. Watson, S.Mississi.4.4 
 4. Pitts, Marshall4.4 
 5. Streeter, UTEP4.4 
 6. Samarrippas, SMU4.2 
 7. Ennis, Rice4.1 
 8. Crawford, Memphis3.9 
 9. Jackson, Memphis3.8 
 10. Kane, Marshall3.5 
Steals Per Game
 A.J. ROMPZA
  Cent.Flo.
  (175-G-)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Rompza, Cent.Flo.2.4 
 2. Kazemi, Rice2.2 
 3. Bazemore, ODU2.0 
 4. Crawford, Memphis1.8 
 5. Tarrant, Tulane1.7 
 6. Iliadis, ODU1.6 
 7. Witherspoon, Memph.1.5 
 8. Kane, Marshall1.4 
 9. Barton, Memphis1.4 
 10. Paul, E.Carolina1.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Cameron MOORE
  UAB
  (208-F-90)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Moore, UAB2.4 
 2. Thomas, Houston2.1 
 3. Maduka, Tulsa1.8 
 4. Clanton, Cent.Flor.1.8 
 5. Oraby, Rice1.6 
 6. Black, Memphis1.5 
 7. Timmons, Tulane1.3 
 8. Harris, Houston1.3 
 9. Cooper, ODU1.3 
 10. Davis, Tulane1.2 


Cleveland State University Trevon Harmon Named to Mid-Major Defensive All-America Team - by Vance Marbury

Cleveland State senior guard Trey Harmon (Pasadena, Calif.) has been named to the collegeinsider.com Mid-Major Defensive All-America team that was announced on Tuesday.

It is the second consecutive season that Harmon has been named to the squad.

'I am happy for Trey because this award shows the recognition for all that he did for us this past season, especially on the defensive end of the court,' head coach Gary Waters said.

The 6-foot-1 Harmon developed into one of the premier defenders in the Horizon League during his CSU career, capping his tenure by being named to the Horizon League All-Defensive team as a junior and senior.

This past season, Harmon ranked eighth in the league in steals (1.3). His defensive efforts helped the Vikings lead the league in scoring defense (60.1) and steals (8.5), rank second in field goal percentage defense (.414) and third in three-point field goal defense (.317) and turnover margin (+2.5).

He made multiple steals in 12 games this year.

On the offensive end, Harmon led the team and ranked 10th in the league in scoring (12.6) and third in three-pointers per game (2.2).

Harmon finished his CSU career 12th in scoring (1,326), third in three-point field goals (206) and just outside the top-10 with 163 steals.

The Vikings finished the 2011-12 season at 22-11 overall, advancing to the postseason for the fourth time in the last five years, falling in the first round of the NIT and eventual champion Stanford.


Tulsa adds transfer Kauri Black from Northeastern - by Eurobasket News

New Tulsa coach Danny Manning has added his second recruit in as many days.

Manning announced Wednesday that forward Kauri Black (6'7''-F-90) signed scholarship papers with Tulsa and will transfer from Northeastern University. The 6-foot-7 Black averaged 4.6 points and 3.2 rebounds last season while starting 33 games for the Huskies.

He will be a graduate student and be able to play next season, his last year of college eligibility.

Manning says Black should provide the Golden Hurricane with leadership and bridge the gap between recruiting classes.

On Tuesday, Manning announced the signing of high school point guard Rashad Ray from New Orleans. Ray was first-team all-state in Louisiana as a senior last season after averaging 18.5 points, seven assists and three steals per game.

Courtesy of www.cleveland.com


Reeves Nelson suing SI over article's claims - by Eurobasket News

Former UCLA player Reeves Nelson (6'9''-F-91, agency: Alti Sport, college: UCLA) is suing Sports Illustrated for $10 million, citing defamation, false light and intentional infliction of emotional distress over its recent article about problems in the school's basketball program.

The lawsuit filed Wednesday in Superior Court in Los Angeles names Time Inc. and writer George Dohrmann as defendants. The story titled ''Not the UCLA Way'' initially appeared Feb. 28 on the magazine's website and then in its March 5 print edition. Nelson also wants a retraction and public apology.

The lawsuit includes sworn statements from 18 current and former UCLA players, including Tyler Trapani, the great-grandson of legendary UCLA coach John Wooden. They attest that the article's general descrition of Nelson as a ''psychotic bully'' is false and that specific instances of Nelson's alleged bullying described in the article never happened or were grossly distorted.

According to the lawsuit, the defendants specifically blamed UCLA's problems on Nelson, describing him as ''a classic bully, targeting teammates who weren't as athletically gifted as he and tormenting the support staff.''

Former player Tyler Honeycutt, who was described in the article as one of Nelson's victims, confirms in his statement that Nelson never urinated on his bed and clothes, as mentioned in the article. Trapani, who has since graduated, says Nelson did not go ''out of his way'' to step on his chest as Trapani lay on the ground during a practice drill. Both Honeycutt and Trapani say they were never contacted by Dohrmann about the alleged incidents.

Former players Alex Schrempf and Blake Arnet said in their statements that they were both contacted by the writer, and they told him that his version of events was incorrect. Neither of them was quoted in the article.

The lawsuit says that none of the 18 players contributed any of the anonymous quotes in the article, and that all of them have confirmed that the bulk of the writer's claims about Nelson are false.

According to the suit, Nelson spoke briefly with Dohrmann about his UCLA career before the article was published. However, it says Dohrmann never questioned Nelson about any of the incidents involving his teammates. Instead, it says Nelson's comments were in reference to his actions just before he was suspended and dismissed from the team last December for insubordinate behavior.

Nelson played professionally in the Lithuania Basketball League for two months before leaving to prepare for the NBA draft in June.

He is seeking a jury trial, and any damages would have to be decided by a jury.

Courtesy of http://msn.foxsports.com


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


Oguchi comes back to Meralco Bolts - by Eurobasket Center

Meralco Bolts strengthened their roster with addition of 26-year old Nigerian ex-international guard Chamberlain Oguchi (198-G-86, college: Illinois St.). It's actually Oguchi's comeback to Meralco Bolts as he played here before. In his first game he scored 29 points and grabbed 10 rebounds helping his new team beat Talk N Text 105-99. Oguchi played most recently at Panteras de Miranda (Venezuela). While playing 21 games for Panteras this season he averaged 13.0ppg, 2.1rpg and 1.6apg. Oguchi was selected also to the all-star game. He is a very experienced player. Oguchi played also pro basketball in France, Iraq, Lebanon, Venezuela and Nigeria. He graduated Illinois State University in 2009 and it will be his third season in pro basketball. Oguchi played for Nigerian senior national until 2009.

By Eurobasket Data Center


*****************************************************
  PARAGUAY   


77th METRO season has its 6 best teams - by Santiago Maciel

After playing 2 rounds among 12 teams, the Paraguayan Metro Season concluded with its 6 best teams who will be playing an HEXAGONAL that will also qualify the best 4, to start the semi finals. Places 7th to 12th will be playing the 5th edition of the COMUNEROS METRO. Here we list the top 6 teams as well as the last 6 also.

TOP 6 METRO
1 LIBERTAD
2 FELIX PEREZ
3 SANJOSE
4 SOL
5 CERRO
6 UCA

5TH COMUNEROS METRO
1 CIUDAD NUEVA
2 OLIMPIA
3 UAA
4 SAJONIA
5 CAMPOALTO
6 SAN LORENZO


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

Standings - PBA Fiesta Conference

PBA Standings
 1. Ginebra Kings 1-0 
 2. Meralco Bolts 1-0 
 3. Petron Blaze 1-0 
 4. Rain or Shine 1-0 
 5. B-Meg Llam. 0-0 
 6. Barako Bull 0-0 
 7. Air21 Express 0-1 
 8. Alaska Aces 0-1 
 9. Powerade T. 0-1 
 10. Talk N Text 0-1 

Regular Season: Round 2

May. 23: Talk N Text - Meralco Bolts 99-105
May. 23: Ginebra Kings - Air21 Express 103-85

Regular Season: Round 3

May. 25: Powerade T. - Barako Bull
May. 25: B-Meg Llam. - Rain or Shine


PBA Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Paul HARRIS
  Talk N Text
  (193-F/G-86)
  Avg: 32
 1. Harris, Talk N Text32.0 
 2. Graham, Air21 E.31.0 
 3. Oguchi, Meralco Bo.29.0 
 4. Bozeman, Ginebra29.0 
 5. Basden, Petron B.28.0 
 6. Cornley, Rain o.27.0 
 7. McCants, Powerade.27.0 
 8. David, Powerade T.26.0 
 9. Forte, Alaska Aces25.0 
 10. Mercado, Meralco24.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jason FORTE
  Alaska Aces
  (196-F-84)
  Avg: 14
 1. Forte, Alaska Aces14.0 
 2. Pena, Petron Blaze13.0 
 3. Harris, Talk N Text13.0 
 4. Bozeman, Ginebra13.0 
 5. Hugnatan, Meralco12.0 
 6. Graham, Air21 E.12.0 
 7. Raymundo, Ginebra11.0 
 8. Cornley, Rain o.11.0 
 9. Basden, Petron B.10.0 
 10. Taulava, Meralco10.0 
Assists Per Game
 LA TENORIO
  Alaska A.
  (178-G-84)
  Avg: 7
 1. Tenorio, Alaska A.7.0 
 2. Norwood, Rain o.6.0 
 3. Jazul, Air21 E.6.0 
 4. Bozeman, Ginebra6.0 
 5. Cortez, Ginebra6.0 
 6. Cabagnot, Petron6.0 
 7. David, Powerade T.6.0 
 8. Dillinger, Talk N.5.0 
 9. Lutz, Petron Blaze5.0 
 10. Lee, Rain or Shine4.0 
Steals Per Game
 Mark MACAPAGAL
  Meralc.
  (188-G-79)
  Avg: 3
 1. Macapagal, Meralc.3.0 
 2. Hatfield, Ginebra3.0 
 3. Basden, Petron B.3.0 
 4. McCants, Powerade.2.0 
 5. Oguchi, Meralco Bo.2.0 
 6. Ross, Meralco2.0 
 7. David, Powerade T.2.0 
 8. Tenorio, Alaska A.2.0 
 9. Mercado, Meralco2.0 
 10. Artadi, Meralco B.2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 JR QUINAHAN
  Rain o.
  (198-C-84)
  Avg: 2
 1. Quinahan, Rain o.2.0 
 2. Aguilar, Talk N.2.0 
 3. Thoss, Alaska Aces2.0 
 4. Forte, Alaska Aces2.0 
 5. Baguio, Alaska Ac.2.0 
 6. Graham, Air21 E.2.0 
 7. Harris, Talk N Text1.0 
 8. Mercado, Meralco1.0 
 9. Peek, Talk N Text1.0 
 10. deOcampo, Talk N.1.0 


Oguchi comes back to Meralco Bolts - by Eurobasket Center

Meralco Bolts strengthened their roster with addition of 26-year old Nigerian ex-international guard Chamberlain Oguchi (198-G-86, college: Illinois St.). It's actually Oguchi's comeback to Meralco Bolts as he played here before. In his first game he scored 29 points and grabbed 10 rebounds helping his new team beat Talk N Text 105-99. Oguchi played most recently at Panteras de Miranda (Venezuela). While playing 21 games for Panteras this season he averaged 13.0ppg, 2.1rpg and 1.6apg. Oguchi was selected also to the all-star game. He is a very experienced player. Oguchi played also pro basketball in France, Iraq, Lebanon, Venezuela and Nigeria. He graduated Illinois State University in 2009 and it will be his third season in pro basketball. Oguchi played for Nigerian senior national until 2009.

By Eurobasket Data Center


Latest games - by Eurobasket Center

Ginebra Kings - Air21 Express 103-85
Mark Caguioa's (188-G-79, college: Glendale CC (AZ)) return to Barangay Ginebra was made grander by Cedric Bozeman (198-G-83, college: UCLA) and Allein Maliksi. With their leader back on the court and providing a big boost by his mere presence alone, the Kings had little trouble disposing off Air21 103-85 Wednesday in their PBA Governors' Cup debut at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. Wearing a pair of protective glasses to protect the eye he injured last March 30, Caguioa scored 15 points, each one of his five baskets lustily cheered on by his teammates. 'Mark has always been one of the focal points ng team kaya it's really a blessing na nabigyan siya agad ng clearance para makapaglaro,' said Kings head coach Siot Tanquingcen. 'Mark has always been the soul of this team. Malaking bagay talagang maglaro siya.' Maliksi was not to be left out as he added 11 of his 13 in the fourth period to spark Ginebra's runaway win and become one of the key backups to Bozeman's team-high 29 points and game-high 13 rebounds. The rookie sidelined since October by a strained lateral cruciate ligament was simply on fire, with his baseline jumper over two defenders giving Ginebra its first 20-point lead at 87-67. The win was also fashioned despite the absence of Jayjay Helterbrand, who had to attend the graduation of his daughter in the US, and Eric Menk, who pulled a hamstring in practice and will be out at least two more weeks. Caguioa was just glad to be playing again. 'It feels good to be back on the court again,' said the guard, who came in at the 5:32 mark of the first period and promptly buried his first shot, a buzzer-beating straightaway triple, with only 2:03 left in the canto. 'It felt good,' he related. 'When it went in, I was mentally thinking magiging okay na ako for the whole game.' Having had only about eight practices with the team, Caguioa admitted he is just at about 80 percent game-shape and he still needs to take medication for the intermittent headaches his injury brought about. 'Wala pa sa kondisyon,' he said. 'A few more games I'll be all right. Wala na namang pain, but there's still a little bit of headache.' Zach Graham wound up with 31 points to lead all scorers and also grabbed 12 rebounds, but did not have the same kind of support his former teammate with the Reno Bighorns had as Air21 dropped its opening assignment for the second time in three conferences. Tanquingcen and Caguioa both were also quick to point out the game could hardly be used as a gauge. 'Tingnan natin, kapag ang kalaban mas malakas na team. Du'n makikita kung saan puwede ang team,' said Caguioa. Despite never gaining the upper hand, Air21 did manage to make a game of it, whittling the deficit to just 81-91, still a good 4:03 remaining in the game. Following a timeout, Bozeman used the baseline as approach for a dunk and Mike Cortez boomed in a triple from the left corner to decisively quell the threat. It was a much tighter game in the first half as the Express came charging back to within 39-42 after Caguioa's four straight points made it a 34-24 game. Dylan Ababou, another rookie, then promptly drained a triple and Ginebra's defense held, making it just a six-point game at the turn. (NC) *Courtesy of www.pba.ph

Talk N Text - Meralco Bolts 99-105
Having lost all its previous five encounters with Talk n Text, Meralco made sure to finally pull this one with the Texters severely handicapped by injuries. The Bolts had their anxious moments early on but got going in the final half, opening their campaign in the PBA Governors Cup with a 105-99 win over the Texters at the Smart Araneta Coliseum Wednesday night. Returning import Champ Oguchi and Sol Mercado combined for 53 points to lead the Bolts to a triumphant start in the season-ending tourney where they finished eighth last year. 'That's an enormous break for us -- the champs playing with five of their main players out,' said Meralco coach Ryan Gregorio. 'We made sure to find ways to win. We take this win any way we can,' added Gregorio after getting past the TnT team playing minus injured players Jimmy Alapag, Jason Castro, Kelly Williams, Ryan Reyes and Harvey Carey. 'It's nice to win over Talk n Text. It's our first against them. Hopefully, it's not the last,' Gregorio also said. The Bolts had never beaten the Texters in the first five conferences they played in the pro league. Reynel Hugnatan (194-F-78) churned out double-double numbers with 12 points and 12 rebounds while Mark Cardona fired 15 points for the Bolts who are hoping to improve on their sixth place finish in the recent Commissioner's Cup. Gregorio was hopeful their win over Talk n Text could give them a needed boost. 'It's a cutthroat tourney, and we're up against tough opponents in our first four games. But with a boost tonight, definitely we can pull off surprises,' said Gregorio. Though short-handed, the Texters put up a tough fight with Paul Harris (193-F/G-86, college: Syracuse) leading their bid with game-highs of 32 points and 13 rebounds. Ironically, Harris also had the most number of errors with eight. The Bolts forced the Texters to a total of 21 turnovers and produced 24 points off those. Paul Artadi (177-G-81) scored on a breakaway layup off a passing error by Harris then Oguchi banged away a triple as Meralco took a crucial 99-91 lead entering the last three minutes of play. Oguchi himself rattled in baskets keeping the Texters at bay in the homestretch. The returning Meralco import made three triples, seven twinners and six charities while Mercado sank one trey and a total of 24 points. (SB) *Courtesy of www.pba.ph


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

DBE Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Walter HODGE
  Zastal ZG
  (183-PG-86)
  Avg: 19.3
 1. Hodge, Zastal ZG19.3 
 2. Corbett, Siarka J.16.1 
 3. Miller, Siarka J.15.9 
 4. Motiejunas, Asseco15.8 
 5. Kulig, PBG Basket15.7 
 6. Micic, PBG Basket15.7 
 7. Dylewicz, Trefl So.15.6 
 8. Burrell, Energa C.15.6 
 9. Koszarek, Trefl S.15.5 
 10. Weeden, Polpharma15.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Darrell HARRIS
  Kotwica
  (208-F/C-84)
  Avg: 11.6
 1. Harris, Kotwica11.6 
 2. Lawal, Zastal ZG10.2 
 3. Hrycaniuk, Asseco9.2 
 4. Dluski, LKS Lodz8.1 
 5. Archibeque, Zastal8.1 
 6. Burgess, Trefl S.8.0 
 7. Turek, Trefl Sopot7.4 
 8. Doaks, Siarka J.7.3 
 9. Simmons, Polpharma7.2 
 10. Bartosz, PBG Bas.7.1 
Assists Per Game
 Jerel BLASSINGAME
  Asseco P.
  (175-G-81)
  Avg: 7.2
 1. Blassingame, Assec.7.2 
 2. Skibniewski, Slask7.2 
 3. Hodge, Zastal ZG5.7 
 4. Wilczek, AZS P.5.2 
 5. Milicic, AZS K.5.0 
 6. Koszarek, Trefl S.5.0 
 7. Burrell, Energa C.4.8 
 8. Miller, Siarka J.4.7 
 9. Micic, PBG Basket4.5 
 10. Moore, PGE Turow4.4 
Steals Per Game
 Krzysztof SZUBARGA
  Anwil
  (182-G-84)
  Avg: 1.7
 1. Szubarga, Anwil1.7 
 2. Tiller, Siarka J.1.5 
 3. Sapp, Kotwica1.5 
 4. Hodge, Zastal ZG1.5 
 5. Motiejunas, Asseco1.5 
 6. Skibniewski, Slask1.5 
 7. Ponitka, AZS P.1.4 
 8. Miller, Siarka J.1.4 
 9. Dabrowski, Polph.1.4 
 10. Koszarek, Trefl S.1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Chris BURGESS
  Trefl S.
  (209-C-79)
  Avg: 1.6
 1. Burgess, Trefl S.1.6 
 2. Harris, Kotwica1.6 
 3. Eziukwu, AZS K.1.6 
 4. Kesicki, Kotwica1.4 
 5. Morrison, Energa C.1.3 
 6. Karnowski, Siarka1.2 
 7. Mladenovic, Slask1.1 
 8. Lawal, Zastal ZG1.1 
 9. Lauderdale, PGE T.1.1 
 10. Doaks, Siarka J.1.0 


Stats Leaders - 1Liga

Points Per Game
 Lukasz PACOCHA
  AZS S.
  (182-G-82)
  Avg: 18.5
 1. Pacocha, AZS S.18.5 
 2. Woloszyn, MKS D.17.9 
 3. Niesobski, Sudety16.7 
 4. Kostrzewski, Start15.6 
 5. Donigiewicz, Rosa15.5 
 6. Jarecki, P.Cuk.15.3 
 7. Mazur, Polonia14.8 
 8. Lewandowski, P.Cuk.14.0 
 9. Kukielka, Sportino13.6 
 10. Pluta, MOSiR K.13.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Krzysztof MIELCZAREK
  AZS S.
  (198-G/F-81)
  Avg: 11.8
 1. Mielczarek, AZS S.11.8 
 2. Luszczewski, Start9.8 
 3. Wilczek, Sokol Lan.9.4 
 4. Mikolajko, Polonia7.9 
 5. Wilusz, Sudety7.1 
 6. Misiewicz, Znicz B.7.1 
 7. Grudzinski, Spojnia7.0 
 8. Malewski, Znicz B.7.0 
 9. Radke, Rosa Radom6.9 
 10. Klima, Sokol Lanc.6.8 
Assists Per Game
 Grzegorz GROCHOWSKI
  MKS D.
  (178-PG-93)
  Avg: 5.6
 1. Grochowski, MKS D.5.6 
 2. Musijowski, Polonia5.5 
 3. Basinski, SKK S.4.9 
 4. Zytko, P..4.6 
 5. Ochonko, Spojnia4.1 
 6. Michalski, Start L.4.1 
 7. Brek, AZS Kutno3.9 
 8. Kardas, Rosa Radom3.8 
 9. Wojcicki, SKK S.3.6 
 10. Szumelda-K., Znic.3.4 
Steals Per Game
 Lukasz ZYTKO
  P..
  (181-G-81)
  Avg: 3.5
 1. Zytko, P..3.5 
 2. Mielczarek, AZS S.3.1 
 3. Szumelda-K., Znicz3.0 
 4. Niesobski, Sudety2.9 
 5. Lewandowski, P.Cuk.2.8 
 6. Sulinski, Znicz B.2.7 
 7. Basinski, SKK S.2.5 
 8. Pisarczyk, Sokol L.2.5 
 9. Szurlej, Sokol L.2.4 
 10. Musijowski, Polon.2.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Artur DONIGIEWICZ
  Rosa R.
  (185-G-84)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Donigiewicz, Rosa1.9 
 2. Zytko, P..1.8 
 3. Klima, Sokol Lancut1.8 
 4. Niesobski, Sudety1.8 
 5. Oczkowicz, MOSiR K.1.7 
 6. Zmarlak, MKS D.1.7 
 7. Malecki, AZS Kutno1.6 
 8. Wojcicki, SKK S.1.6 
 9. Aleksandrowi., Sta.1.6 
 10. Mazur, Polonia1.5 


PLK Round 2 of Finals. Asseco Prokom register second straight win - by Eurobasket News

FINAL
Asseco Prokom - Trefl Sopot 77-65

Asseco Prokom recorded the second straight win in the championship series. It looked good early as Trefl Sopot took an 3-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Asseco Prokom had a 31-12 second period charge getting the lead and Trefl Sopot was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 65-77. International center Adam Hrycaniuk (206-84, college: Cincinnati, agency: Alti Sport) notched a double-double by scoring 13 points and 14 rebounds to lead the effort and American guard Jerel Blassingame (175-81, college: UNLV) supported him with 12 points and 8 assists. Four Asseco Prokom players scored in double figures. Asseco Prokom's coach used entire bench which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Even 15 points and 9 rebounds by the former international forward Filip Dylewicz (202-80) did not help to save the game for Trefl Sopot. The former international guard Lukasz Koszarek (187-84) added 17 points for the guests.
Top scorers:
Asseco Prokom: A.Hrycaniuk 13+14reb+2ast, J.Blassingame 12+3reb+8ast, P.Frasunkiewicz 11+1reb+2ast, F.Dmitriev 10+2reb+1ast, M.Kuebler 9+2reb+1ast, D.Motiejunas 9+5reb+3ast
Trefl Sopot: L.Koszarek 17+4reb+1ast, F.Dylewicz 15+9reb+1ast, J.Mallett 12+4reb, A.Waczynski 8+3reb+1ast, J.Turek 6+11reb+1ast, V.Cummings 4+2reb
gschID: 176643

3rd Place
PGE Turow - Zastal ZG 95-69

PGE Turow levelled the consolation final series forcing the decisive third game in Zielona Gora. The game was mostly controlled by PGE Turow. Zastal ZG managed to win fourth quarter 17-12. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. PGE Turow dominated down low during the game scoring 62 of its points in the paint compared to Zastal ZG's 40 and made 27-of-30 free shots (90.0 percent) during the game. PGE Turow had a 29-18 advantage in offensive rebounds. 26 personal fouls committed by Zastal ZG helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American guard Arthur Lee (185-77, college: Stanford, agency: Interperformances) scored 19 points and 7 assists (was perfect 9-for-9 from the free throw line !!!) to lead the charge for the winners and naturalized German forward Konrad Wysocki (201-82, college: Princeton, agency: Pro One Sports) chipped in 12 points and 6 rebounds during the contest. Five PGE Turow players scored in double figures. Ivorian-Puerto Rican point guard Walter Hodge (183-86, college: Florida) responded with 15 points and 5 assists (was perfect 8-for-8 from the free throw line) and American forward Thomas Mobley (195-81, college: Charleston) scored 12 points. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games.
Top scorers:
PGE Turow: A.Lee 19+2reb+7ast, K.Wysocki 12+6reb+2ast, D.Kickert 12+4reb+1ast, D.Lauderdale 10+5reb, A.Cel 10+6reb+1ast, D.Kulig 10+3reb
Zastal ZG: W.Hodge 15+5ast, T.Mobley 12+3reb, K.Archibeque 10+3reb, P.Stelmach 6+2reb, R.Rajewicz 6+3reb, K.Chanas 6+1reb
gschID: 176644



Eurobasket.com All-Polish 1Liga Awards 2011-12 - by Eurobasket Center

Eurobasket.com All-Polish 1Liga 1st Team 2011-2012
#s#
Mateusz Kostrzewski
Kostrzewski
Piotr Kardas
Kardas
Artur Donigiewicz
Donigiewicz
Michal Woloszyn
Woloszyn
Tomasz Wojdyla
Wojdyla
#e#5

Player of the Year: Mateusz Kostrzewski (201-G/F-89) of Start Gdynia
Guard of the Year: Artur Donigiewicz (185-G-84) of Rosa Radom
Forward of the Year: Mateusz Kostrzewski (201-G/F-89) of Start Gdynia
Center of the Year: Tomasz Wojdyla (201-F-77) of Start Gdynia
Rookie of the Year: Grzegorz Grochowski (178-PG-93) of MKS DG
Defensive Player of the Year: Francis Jonathan Han (185-G-87) of Sportino
Coach of the Year: Michal Spychala of Znicz Basket

1st Team
G: Piotr Kardas (182-78) of Rosa Radom
G: Artur Donigiewicz (185-84) of Rosa Radom
G/F: Mateusz Kostrzewski (201-89) of Start Gdynia
F: Michal Woloszyn (202-84) of MKS DG
F: Tomasz Wojdyla (201-77) of Start Gdynia

2nd Team
G: Grzegorz Mordzak (183-77) of Start Gdynia
G: Piotr Smigielski (190-89) of Start Gdynia
G: Marcel Wilczek (200-86) of Sokol Lancut
F: Aleks Perka (201-87) of AZS Kutno
F: Przemyslaw Szymanski (198-84) of Znicz Basket

Honorable Mention
Marcin Kosinski (188-G-85) of Rosa Radom
Maciej Klima (205-C-82) of Sokol Lancut
Adam Parzych (190-G-86) of Spojnia
Artur Mikolajko (197-F-79) of Polonia
Lukasz Zytko (181-G-81) of P.Cukier SIDEn
Przemyslaw Lewandowski (204-F/G-78) of P.Cukier SIDEn
Krzysztof Mielczarek (198-G/F-81) of AZS Szczecin
Lukasz Pacocha (182-G-82) of AZS Szczecin
Przemyslaw Luszczewski (195-F-80) of Start Lublin
Francis Jonathan Han (185-G-87) of Sportino
Lukasz Niesobski (185-G-85) of Sudety


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

Stats Leaders - UZO Liga

Points Per Game
 Nate BOWIE
  Terceira.
  (183-G-86)
  Avg: 19.1
 1. Bowie, Terceira.19.1 
 2. Murphy, Terceira.18.6 
 3. Addison, Sampaense18.2 
 4. Scott, Benfica17.0 
 5. Nevels, Terceira.16.9 
 6. Franklin, Lusitania16.5 
 7. Morris, Vitoria SC16.5 
 8. Stempin, Porto F.16.3 
 9. Balseiro, Sampa.15.5 
 10. Oruche, Academica15.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Brian MORRIS
  Vitoria SC
  (205-F-87)
  Avg: 11
 1. Morris, Vitoria SC11.0 
 2. Lee, Ovarense9.9 
 3. Nevels, Terceira.9.6 
 4. Fonseca, Vitoria SC9.2 
 5. Addison, Sampaense8.3 
 6. Djukic, Ginasio8.2 
 7. Gunter, CAB M.7.9 
 8. Momplasir, Lusitan.7.9 
 9. Cunha, Vitoria SC7.9 
 10. Coll, Barcelos7.5 
Assists Per Game
 Mario FERNANDES
  CAB M.
  (176-PG-82)
  Avg: 6.5
 1. Fernandes, CAB M.6.5 
 2. Sing, Sampaense5.9 
 3. Blanks, Vitoria SC5.4 
 4. Reveles, Sampaense5.3 
 5. Barbosa, Ovarense4.5 
 6. Ferreira, Ginasio4.4 
 7. Bowie, Terceira.4.1 
 8. Fechas, Barcelos4.1 
 9. Manarte, Ovarense4.1 
 10. Silva, CAB Madeira3.7 
Steals Per Game
 Jaime SILVA
  CAB Madeira
  (187-PG-80)
  Avg: 3.2
 1. Silva, CAB Madeira3.2 
 2. Fernandes, CAB M.2.3 
 3. Balseiro, Sampa.2.3 
 4. Cunha, Vitoria SC2.0 
 5. Andrade, Porto F.1.9 
 6. Kenon, CAB Madeira1.9 
 7. Jackson, CAB M.1.8 
 8. Bessa, Vitoria SC1.8 
 9. Silva, Barcelos1.8 
 10. Oliveira, Barcelos1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Durrell NEVELS
  Terceira.
  (198-F-86)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Nevels, Terceira.2.8 
 2. Momplasir, Lusitan.2.0 
 3. Johnson, Porto F.1.3 
 4. Gunter, CAB M.1.0 
 5. Silva, Barcelos1.0 
 6. Addison, Sampaense0.8 
 7. Ehiagwina, Ginasio0.8 
 8. Coelho, CAB M.0.8 
 9. Doliboa, Benfica0.7 
 10. Howell, Academica0.7 


Reactions after Benfica won the title - by Bruno Baltazar

We mentioned in the recap of the game what happened after the game was over.a battle in the arena between the players ,a healthy and very good basketball battle that led to the Benfica championship winning the game by 3 points but after the game was over there was some fights ,real fights...
The game was disputed in the Porto arena and Nuno Marcal (205-F-75) in a interview seen here told the Porto channel that the game was a very good one ,even better then lasts years finals between both teams but after the game he felt very disrespected by the mitic portuguese coach of Benfica ,Carlos Lisboa that you can see in the clip the lack of respect with his movements made to the Porto fans,the link is here

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nEP_jr4BXH0&feature=player_embedded

After that Nuno Marcal confronted the coach that he mentioned the words he said couldnt be described on television,Marcal is the Porto captain ,so they felt disrespected and the fans too also seeing in the clip some Benfica players threw shirts to the Porto fans saying Benfica is the champion ,also to see that that Mario Saldanha the league president wasnt even present to award the trophy and the medals to both teams,things went like a roller coaster with Porto fans throwing objects to the arena ,making the Benfica players going to the lockers where they got the trophy,the police people had to stop the fans and some of them said that the police abused the fans with alot of agressiveness for them...

A sad fact from what is known to be the best portuguese basketball player all time and now a coach ,a fact that sad the portuguese basketball.


Benfica is the champion - by Bruno Baltazar

And we have a new league champion ,its Benfica ,they won the game 5 and last game of the series in the Porto arena.
The day started with plenty of emotions for both sides ,Porto with the best record in the regular season and home advantage ,who would have won the game would won the league and Porto did not wanted the visitors to raise the trophy in their own home.

It was a epic battle that marks the history of the last seasons of the league between Porto,Benfica and Ovarense in the middle of the fight for the national title.The fans were tense and players a bit too that shows the low score of the game,56-53 for Benfica .,the first quarter started with a lead for Benfica of 19-17, but the 2nd quarter made the big diference ,Porto only scored 4 points and to what everybody agrees their worse quarter in the entire season killed them in the game for the league title,Benfica went to the locker rooms leading by 11 points, 32-21.
In the final of the 3rd quarter it was Porto time ,they didnt wanted to see the trophy escape between their hands and were down 45-39,Carlos Andrade (197-F-78, college: Queens, NC) with 4 minutes left made a triple to short the distance of 1 point with Benfica lead but Seth Deliboa in the next play responded in the same coin and in the lasts minutes Benfica managed the lead they had.

Gregory Stempin (203-F-79, agency: Duran International, college: Toledo) was the best scorer of the game with 16 and for Benfica Ted Scott (188-G-85, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: W.Virginia St.) with 14 and Diogo Carreira (180-G-78) with 12 were the leaders,Benfica makes the revenge to Porto that won last season and gets their 23rd title in their history ,Porto comes second with 11.After the game Benfica had to recieve the trophy in the locker rooms because there were some figthts between Porto fans and the police being that the negative side of the game.
After the game Carlos Lisboa ,Benfica coach said his team was the best in the playoffs and that the key was the defense.


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

Stats Leaders - BSN

Points Per Game
 Al THORNTON
  Guayama
  (203-F-83)
  Avg: 25.3
 1. Thornton, Guayama25.3 
 2. Harris, San German19.8 
 3. Sensley, Humacao19.7 
 4. Randolph, Quebradi.19.4 
 5. Diogu, Arecibo18.1 
 6. Brown, Humacao18.0 
 7. Dalmau, Bayamon18.0 
 8. Ramos, Quebradillas17.1 
 9. Ayuso, Arecibo17.0 
 10. Vassallo, Guayna.16.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Shavlik RANDOLPH
  Quebradi.
  (208-F-83)
  Avg: 11.5
 1. Randolph, Quebradi.11.5 
 2. Harris, San German10.3 
 3. Diogu, Arecibo9.9 
 4. Lloreda, San G.9.4 
 5. Powell, Guayama9.2 
 6. Thornton, Guayama9.2 
 7. Sensley, Humacao9.0 
 8. Ramos, Quebradillas8.8 
 9. Burgess, Guaynabo8.4 
 10. Shannon, Quebradi.8.1 
Assists Per Game
 Filiberto RIVERA
  San German
  (190-PG-82)
  Avg: 5.6
 1. Rivera, San German5.6 
 2. Guzman, Guaynabo5.4 
 3. Garcia, Humacao5.2 
 4. Smith, Mayaguez5.1 
 5. Pagan, Guayama5.0 
 6. Butler, Quebradill.4.8 
 7. Pinnock, Arecibo4.3 
 8. Dalmau, Bayamon4.2 
 9. Brown, Humacao3.4 
 10. Young, Guaynabo3.1 
Steals Per Game
 Donta SMITH
  Mayaguez
  (201-G-83)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Smith, Mayaguez2.1 
 2. Mojica, Bayamon1.7 
 3. Pinnock, Arecibo1.6 
 4. Dalmau, Bayamon1.5 
 5. Hamilton, Mayaguez1.5 
 6. Rivera, San German1.4 
 7. Figueroa, Guaynabo1.3 
 8. Sensley, Humacao1.3 
 9. Thornton, Guayama1.3 
 10. Pagan, Guayama1.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Mamadou LAMIZANA
  Bayamon
  (207-F/C-81)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Lamizana, Bayamon2.4 
 2. Penn, Humacao1.8 
 3. Shannon, Quebradil.1.6 
 4. O''Bryant, Mayaguez1.6 
 5. Thornton, Guayama1.6 
 6. Aubry, Arecibo1.6 
 7. Burgess, Guaynabo1.4 
 8. Powell, Guayama1.3 
 9. Randolph, Quebradi.1.3 
 10. Ramos, Quebradill.1.2 


Atlticos tie semifinals against Capitanes: - by Marcos Carlo

Atleticos de San German recovered quickly from their game 1 loss yesterday and dominated Capitanes de Arecibo 76-62. The series is now tied 1-1 and continues on Saturday in Arecibo.

San German made a clear statement; they made the necessary adjustments, gave the ball inside to Lloreda and also had long offensive possessions to set the tempo.

The locals had control of the game the whole way, and they just allowed ten points from Arecibo in the second quarter to have a 39-28 lead.

The defensive performance by their perimeter players limited Arecibo to just 6 basket from three in 25 attempts. Danilo Pinnock was their best scorer with 17.

Filiberto Rivera (190-PG-82, college: UTEP) led the winners with 19 points and Jose Lloreda scored 18.


*****************************************************
  ROMANIA   

Stats Leaders - Men

Points Per Game
 Jaytonah WISSEH
  CSU Sibiu
  (185-G-88)
  Avg: 23.5
 1. Wisseh, CSU Sibiu23.5 
 2. Durham, Dinamo B.23.3 
 3. Martinic, CSM B.23.0 
 4. Krstanovic, U.Mobi.20.9 
 5. Dykes, U.Mobite.19.8 
 6. Mitchell, Gaz Metan18.5 
 7. Sims, Giurgiu18.3 
 8. Ross, Craiova18.0 
 9. Gallimore, CSM B.17.9 
 10. Haymon, Dinamo B.17.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Allen DURHAM
  Dinamo B.
  (198-F-88)
  Avg: 13.7
 1. Durham, Dinamo B.13.7 
 2. Kinloch, Pitesti9.3 
 3. Carutasu, CSM B.8.6 
 4. McKenzie, CSM B.8.6 
 5. Dies, Perla Harghi.8.4 
 6. Krstanovic, U.Mobi.8.4 
 7. Steffel, Rovinari8.3 
 8. Riley, CSU Sibiu8.1 
 9. Nicoara, Gaz Metan8.1 
 10. Vlaicu, Giurgiu7.7 
Assists Per Game
 Jaytonah WISSEH
  CSU Sibiu
  (185-G-88)
  Avg: 7.3
 1. Wisseh, CSU Sibiu7.3 
 2. Cooley, Targu M.6.2 
 3. Maric, Oradea6.1 
 4. Sims, Giurgiu5.5 
 5. Nikolic, Rovinari5.4 
 6. Martinic, CSM B.5.3 
 7. Howell, Gaz Metan5.3 
 8. Vlahovic, Ploiesti5.2 
 9. Long, Perla Harghi.5.0 
 10. Jovanovic, Timiso.4.9 
Steals Per Game
 Jaytonah WISSEH
  CSU Sibiu
  (185-G-88)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Wisseh, CSU Sibiu2.9 
 2. Cooley, Targu M.2.6 
 3. Howell, Gaz Metan2.1 
 4. Tucker, Perla H.2.1 
 5. Mitchell, Gaz Metan1.9 
 6. Hurjui, Politehnica1.8 
 7. Hargrove, Ploiesti1.8 
 8. Dykes, U.Mobite.1.8 
 9. Nicolae, Politehni.1.8 
 10. Archie, Timisoara1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Kaylone RILEY
  CSU Sibiu
  (203-C-88)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Riley, CSU Sibiu1.8 
 2. Tibirna, Otopeni1.7 
 3. McKenzie, CSM B.1.7 
 4. Dies, Perla Harghi.1.5 
 5. Kinloch, Pitesti1.4 
 6. Archie, Timisoara1.1 
 7. Durham, Dinamo B.1.1 
 8. Mijovic, U.Mobite.1.1 
 9. Dragusin, Gaz M.0.9 
 10. McCulloch, Dinamo0.9 


Ploiesti became the Winner of the 2012/2012 season - by Eurobasket News

Game 4
Ploiesti - Timisoara 80-78 OT (4-0)

Ploiesti became the Winner of the 2012/2012 season. The team swept the Final series to win the Gold medals.
Ploiesti started the game with 15-14, but allowed the guests to take the lead at the halftime after 19-10 in the second period. Ploiesti needed 22-18 in the third quarter and 25-21 in the fourth period to tie the game. Timisoara was plagued by 27 personal fouls down the stretch. Worth to mention a great performance of Serbian guard Aleksandar Aleksandar Vlahovic (190-G-90) who helped to win the game recording 24 points and 6 rebounds. American guard Darius Darius Hargrove (193-G-82, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Virginia Union) contributed with 18 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Zlatko Zlatko Jovanovic (181-PG-84, agency: Beo Basket) replied with 20 points and 9 assists and Montenegrin guard Branko Branko Cuic (197-G-78) added 18 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for Timisoara. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures.

Ploiesti: Aleksandar Vlahovic 24, Darius Hargrove 18, Arvydas Cepulis (196-G-79) 15, Catalin Burlacu (210-C-77, agency: Court Side) 11
Timisoara: Zlatko Jovanovic 20, Branko Cuic 18, Robert Sarovic (205-F-78) 12+12rebs, Bogdan Popescu (200-F-78, college: Alaska-Fairb.) 11


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


Eurobasket.com All-Russian PBL - by Simas

Player of the Year: Andrei Kirilenko
Guard of the Year: Patrick Beverley
Forward of the Year: Davon Jefferson
Center of the Year: Nenad Krstic
Bosman Player of the Year: Jeremiah Massey
Import Player of the Year: Davon Jefferson
Domestic Player of the Year: Andrei Kirilenko
Defensive Player of the Year: Andrei Kirilenko
Coach of the Year: Jonas Kazlauskas

1st Team
G: Patrick Beverley
G/F: Alexey Shved
F/G: Andrei Kirilenko
F: Davon Jefferson
C: Nenad Krstic

2nd Team
G: Zoran Planinic
G:Henry Domercant
F: Vitaly Fridzon
F/C: Jeremiah Massey
C: Krasimir Loncar

Honorable Mention
Torey Thomas of Spartak-Prim.
Aaron Miles of Krasnie Krilya
Milos Teodosic of CSKA
Viktor Khryapa of CSKA
Sergey Monya of Khimky

All-Domestic Players Team
G: Sergei Bykov
F/G: Alexey Shved
F: Vitaly Fridzon
F: Andrei Kirilenko
C: Vladimir Veeremenko

All-Imports Team
G: Patrick Beverley
G: Tywain McKee
G: Brion Rush
G/F: Davon Jefferson
C: Lonny Baxter

All-Bosmans Team
G: Yotam Halperin
G: Zoran Planinic
F: Ramunas Siskauskas
F/C: Krasimir Loncar
C: Nenad Krstic


Zakhar Pashutin announces retirement - by Eurobasket News

Zakhar Pashutin (196-G-74) has ended his players career. The eldest player in Russian League last season decided to step aside from active game. Zakhar Pashutin spent the last two seasons with Unics. He moved to the team together with his brother Evgeny Pashutin who worked there as head coach. Zakhar Pashutin tallied 2.9 points and 2.2 rebounds per VTB League game last season. In Euroleague the guard notched 1.0 point per game. In PBL his stats read 2.0 points and 1.8 rebounds. Zakhar Pashutin enjoyed a remarkable career. He was the member of Russian National Team in 1997/2008. He won the European Championship with Russian in 2007. The guard participated at Goodwill Games, Olympic Games and World Championship. Zakhar Pashutin also won Russian Superleague on five occasions. He played in Russia, Turkey and France.


Unics Kazan keeps Vladimir Veremeenko until 2014 - by Eurobasket News

Vladimir Veremeenko (208-F-84, agency: RU-Basket Management) will stay with Unics Kazan until the end of the 2013/14 season. The player penned a two-year contract extension today. Veremeenko played 17 Euroleague games for Unics this season averaging 8.5 points and 6 rebounds. Unics was the newcomer and managed to reach the Quarterfinals. Veremeenko also added 7.8 ppg and 4.2 rpg for 16 games in VTB United League, plus 10.6 ppg and 6.6 rpg for 21 games in PBL. Vladimir Veremeenko joined Unics in 2008 from Khimky Moscow Region. Before that, he played for Dynamo St.Petersburg and Avtodor Saratov. Veremeenko won the EuroCup with Unics a year ago. They also celebrated in Russian Cup in 2009. Vladimir Veremeenko played for the Belarusian NT in 2002, 2005 and 2007.


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


Senegalese National Team 2012 - by Greg

Ngor Goudiaby Sibac Dakar Senegal
Mamadou Ndoye UGB Senegal
Pape Faye 194-G-87 Yokohama BC Japan
Ibrahima Mbengue Douanes Senegal
Mayoro Fall Mbour Senegal
Maguette Ndione 196-G/F-84 Goree Senegal
Elhadji Diakhate 203-F-87 Mermoz Senegal
Diegane Faye Mermoz Senegal
Mouhamed Diop 203-C Chadron St. USA
Ibrahima Kebe UGB Senegal
Pape Mor Faye UGB Senegal
Mamadou Ndoye UGB Senegal
Younousse Diop Rail Senegal
Moussa Seck 223-C-86 Rail Senegal
Abdoul Ba DUC Dakar Senegal
Mamadou Ndiaye DUC Dakar Senegal

Parfaito Adjivon Head Coach
Cheikh Sarr Assistant



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

Standings - A Liga

A League Stage Two Standings
SuperLiga
 1. Partizan 12-2 
 2. Radnicki K. 10-4 
 3. Crvena Zvezda 9-5 
 4. Vojvodina 7-7 
 5. Radnicki Basket 5-9 
 6. Mega Vizura 5-9 
 7. BKK Radnicki 4-10 
 8. Hemofarm 4-10 
Places 9-18
 1. OKK Beograd 15-11 
 2. Tamis 15-11 
 3. Sloga 13-13 
 4. Smederevo 12-12 
 5. Borac 12-14 
 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 14

May. 23: Vojvodina - Radnicki Basket 91-71
May. 23: Crvena Zvezda - Radnicki K. 87-75
May. 23: BKK Radnicki - Partizan 77-87
May. 23: Hemofarm - Mega Vizura 100-92

Semi-Finals: Round 1

May. 27: Partizan - Vojvodina
May. 27: Radnicki K. - Crvena Zvezda


Luka Mitrovic gets MVP of the Round award for Superleague - by Eurobasket News

Talented Luka Mitrovic (204-F/C-93) had a great game in the last round for Hemofarm and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Round 14 award. The 18-year old power forward had a double-double of 14 points and fourteen rebounds, while his team beat Mega Vizura (#7, 5-9) 100-92. Hemofarm ended as the last ranked team in Superleague with 4-10 record. Luka Mitrovic averaged this season 7.4ppg and 5.9rpg.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 24-year old center Aleksandar Petrovic (204-C-87) of BKK Radnicki. Petrovic impressed basketball fans with 23 points and 6 rebounds. Bad luck as BKK Radnicki lost that game 77-87 to the top ranked Partizan (#1, 12-2). BKK Radnicki ended the season as No.7 in Superleague with 4-10 score.

The third best performed player last round was Nenad Miljenovic (194-G-93, agency: Beo Basket) of Mega Vizura (#7). Miljenovic showcased his all-around game by recording 20 points, six rebounds and seven assists in the last round. Despite Miljenovic's great performance Mega Vizura lost 92-100 to Hemofarm (#5, 4-10). Mega Vizura finished as No.6 in Superleague with 5-9 score. Miljenovic has individually a great season in Serbia. After 26 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in assists with 4.1apg (8th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Strahinja Milosevic (203-F-85) of Vojvodina - 15 points and 11 rebounds
5. Mladen Jeremic (196-G-88) of Hemofarm - 36 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Davis Bertans (208-F-92) of Partizan - 20 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Bojan Bakic (197-G-83) of Hemofarm - 26 points and 3 assists
8. Dejan Musli (213-C-91) of Mega Vizura - 12 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Sava Lesic (205-C/F-88) of Crvena Zvezda - 11 points and 9 rebounds
10. Marko Lukovic (204-F-92) of Mega Vizura - 20 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists

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


*****************************************************
  SLOVENIA   

Stats Leaders - 1A

Points Per Game
 Travis NELSON
  Sentjur
  (211-C-87)
  Avg: 17.5
 1. Nelson, Sentjur17.5 
 2. Prepelic, Helios16.7 
 3. Tomic, Rogaska15.8 
 4. Hohler, Polzela14.0 
 5. Pajic, Geoplin Slo.14.0 
 6. Maric, Sentjur13.9 
 7. Mahkovic, LTHcas.13.9 
 8. Rupnik, Geoplin13.3 
 9. Panic, Zlatorog13.1 
 10. Dragic, Krka13.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Milos MILJKOVIC
  Rogaska
  (204-F/C-84)
  Avg: 8.6
 1. Miljkovic, Rogaska8.6 
 2. Djugum, Geoplin8.2 
 3. Pajic, Geoplin Slo.7.4 
 4. Omic, Zlatorog7.1 
 5. Nuhanovic, Elektra6.9 
 6. Sviridov, Polzela6.8 
 7. Nelson, Sentjur6.8 
 8. Mucic, Maribor6.7 
 9. Soldo, LTHcast6.6 
 10. Zolotic, Maribor6.0 
Assists Per Game
 Luka RUPNIK
  Geoplin .
  (184-PG-93)
  Avg: 5.3
 1. Rupnik, Geoplin5.3 
 2. Rembert, Sentjur5.1 
 3. Hohler, Polzela4.4 
 4. Tomic, Rogaska4.1 
 5. Vujasinovic, Zlato.3.9 
 6. Fon, Geoplin Slovan3.8 
 7. Prepelic, Helios3.8 
 8. Jovanovic, Maribo.3.8 
 9. Nissim, Krka3.6 
 10. Gay, Helios3.1 
Steals Per Game
 Boban TOMIC
  Rogaska
  (190-G-88)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Tomic, Rogaska1.9 
 2. Vasl, Polzela1.8 
 3. Dasic, Union Olimp.1.8 
 4. Fon, Geoplin Slovan1.7 
 5. Rupnik, Geoplin1.6 
 6. Gay, Helios1.6 
 7. Dragic, Krka1.6 
 8. Mahkovic, LTHcas.1.5 
 9. Panic, Zlatorog1.5 
 10. Urbas, Parklji1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Salih NUHANOVIC
  Elektra
  (209-C-82)
  Avg: 1.4
 1. Nuhanovic, Elektra1.4 
 2. Nelson, Sentjur1.3 
 3. Omic, Zlatorog1.2 
 4. Sviridov, Polzela1.0 
 5. Thompson, Union O.1.0 
 6. Djugum, Geoplin0.9 
 7. Hannibal, Polzela0.8 
 8. Cresnar, Helios0.7 
 9. Miljkovic, Rogaska0.6 
 10. Primorac, Sentjur0.6 


Krka wins third straight title in Slovenia - by Eurobasket News

Finals, Game 4: Union Olimpija - Krka 55-67 (1-3)

Krka won its third straight title in the country. They cruised past Union Olimpija tonight on the road 55-67 closing the series with almost perfect 3-1. Krka quickly recovered from the home loss in Game One and after that managed to beat its rival three times in a row (twice in Ljubljana).
The guests trailed by 1 point after three quarters before their 20-7 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Krka dominated on the defensive end, holding Union Olimpija to just 7 points in fourth quarter. They made 19-of-24 free shots (79.2 percent) during the game. 25 personal fouls committed by Union Olimpija helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Point guard Afik Nissim (180-81, agency: Beo Basket) fired 18 points for the winners. Jure Balazic (204-F-80) had 14 points, while international swingman Zoran Dragic (196-89) chipped in 8 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. American forward Deon Thompson (203-88, college: N.Carolina) produced 18 points and Montenegrin forward Vladimir Dasic (206-88, agency: Beo Basket) added 13 points and 5 rebounds respectively for lost side.
Krka was the regular season champion with 8-2 record. They eliminated Zlatorog with perfect 2-0 in the Semis. It is important to mention that Union Olimpija won the Slovenian Cup this season.

Union Olimpija: D.Thompson 18+4reb, V.Dasic 13+5reb+1ast, J.Blazic 11+4reb+1ast, J.Mocnik 9+1reb+2ast, G.Jeretin 2+2ast, G.Jagodnik 2+5reb
Krka: A.Nissim 18+1reb+1ast, J.Balazic 14+3reb+1ast, J.Lalic 11+7reb, Z.Dragic 8+5reb+5ast, M.Abdul-Hamid 6+2reb+3ast, E.Muric 5+6reb


Beno Udrih will be back with Bucks - by Eurobasket News

Milwaukee Bucks backup point guard Beno Udrih (6'5''-PG-82) has picked up the player option on his contract and will return to the team for the 2012-'13 season, general manager John Hammond confirmed Wednesday.

Udrih has a player option worth $7.8 million for next season, the final year of a multiyear deal he signed as a member of the Sacramento Kings.

Udrih, 30, was acquired by the Bucks in a three-team trade last year and averaged 5.9 points and 3.8 assists while playing in 59 games.

The eight-year veteran did not play as much as he had the previous season with Sacramento, logging 18.3 per game after playing a career-best 34.6 per game for the Kings during the 2010-'11 season.

Udrih emerged as the primary backup to starting point guard Brandon Jennings and was instrumental in the Bucks' improved offense, which ranked fifth in the league in scoring.

The Bucks ranked third in the league in assists with 23.48 per game, trailing only Denver and Boston.

Udrih and Mike Dunleavy Jr. were leaders of a bench unit that proved to be a strength.

The 6-foot-3 Slovenian finished with a plus-215 plus/minus rating, leading the team in overall plus/minus and on a per game basis.

Udrih's shooting numbers fell off from the previous season. He shot 44% from the field and 28.8% from three-point range, but he attempted only 59 three-pointers after attempting 182 the previous year with Sacramento.

He had four or more assists in 19 games, including a season-high 10 at Cleveland on March 30. His season-high point total was 21 against Portland on April 7.

Courtesy of The Journal Sentinel


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


COLOMBIAN MEN NATIONAL TEAM TO THE SUPER FOUR IN VENEZUELA - by Victor Garcia

Colombia National Team traveled today to Venezuela to play in the Super 4 tournament, a preparatory contest in the way to the upcoming Southamerican Championship.
The National Federation failed one more time to put togoether the best talent , and sent a team assembled mostly for players that belong to Liga de Antioquia and the Orgullo Paisa, players like Edgar Moreno are not confirmed within the roster, other players like JC Otero, Freddy Asprilla, Julian Pineda, Gerson Pena, Hanner Mosquera or Juan Tello Palacios were not officially invited to the team camp.
The load of the team will fall on Stalin Ortiz and Enielsen Guevara shoulders, Bacci , Perez , Renteria and Hernandez are also experienced back up in the team, Aguirre y Cuervo are part of the newcomers.

The roster for the Super 4 is the following:

Stalin Ortiz (63' G - Orgullo Paisa)
Gianluca Bacci (62' - Guerreros)
Eleuterio Renteria (64' F - Cucuta Norte)
Yuber Hinestroza (68' C - Orgullo Paisa)
Divier Perez (68' F/C - Orgullo Paisa)
Camilo Londono (62' G - Liga de Antioquia)
Deiby Aguirre (64' F - Orgullo Paisa)
John Hernandez (610' C - Bukaros)
Alvaro Contreras (6G - Orgullo Paisa)
Diego Cuervo (65' F - Orgullo Paisa)
Enielsen Guevara (69' F/C Marinos de Anzoategui)

Coach: Hernan Giraldo.


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

Stats Leaders - ACB

Points Per Game
 Andy PANKO
  Lagun A.
  (204-F-77)
  Avg: 18.6
 1. Panko, Lagun A.18.6 
 2. Doellman, Assignia16.8 
 3. Teletovic, Caja L.16.0 
 4. Wright, CAI Z.14.5 
 5. Penney, Fuenlabra.14.4 
 6. Davis, Cajasol14.1 
 7. Navarro, FCB Regal13.3 
 8. Hettsheimer, CAI Z.13.3 
 9. De Colo, Valencia13.2 
 10. Caner-Medley, Val.13.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 James AUGUSTINE
  UCAM M.
  (208-F-84)
  Avg: 8.3
 1. Augustine, UCAM M.8.3 
 2. Ivanov, Lucentum7.9 
 3. Borchardt, B.de R.7.7 
 4. Freeland, Unicaja7.5 
 5. Davis, Cajasol7.3 
 6. Williams, FIATC J.7.1 
 7. Caner-Medley, Vale.6.8 
 8. Teletovic, Caja L.6.7 
 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 Madrid4.0 
 4. Rodriguez, Bluse.3.8 
 5. Granger, Asefa E.3.8 
 6. Prigioni, Caja L.3.7 
 7. Rodriguez, Real M.3.7 
 8. Dumas, B.de R.3.7 
 9. Llompart, Lucentum3.4 
 10. Uriz, B.de Rueda3.4 
Steals Per Game
 Pablo PRIGIONI
  Caja L.
  (191-G-77)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Prigioni, Caja L.1.8 
 2. De Colo, Valencia1.6 
 3. Doellman, Assignia1.5 
 4. Vidal, Lagun A.1.5 
 5. Uriz, B.de Rueda V.1.4 
 6. Calloway, Cajasol1.4 
 7. Hanga, Assignia M.1.4 
 8. Udoka, UCAM M.1.4 
 9. Eidson, FCB Regal1.3 
 10. Garbajosa, Unicaja1.3 
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. Barnes, Lucentum1.0 
 8. Vazquez, FCB Regal1.0 
 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. Donaldson, Canarias8.8 
 3. Diouf, Palencia8.8 
 4. Kuzmin, Clinicas.8.6 
 5. Starosta, Navarra8.2 
 6. Mortellaro, Leon7.7 
 7. Antelo, Caceres7.7 
 8. Sikma, La Palma7.7 
 9. Fernandez, Granada7.6 
 10. Williams, Caceres7.5 
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. Bernabe, Leon3.7 
 7. Perez, Menorca3.7 
 8. Sabat, Canarias3.6 
 9. DeVries, Melilla3.4 
 10. Quezada, Leon3.4 
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. Alonso, Mallorca1.8 
 8. Green, 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. Green, Mallorca1.3 
 5. Olmos, Caceres1.2 
 6. Odiakosa, Melilla1.1 
 7. Samb, Granada1.1 
 8. Coleman, Girona1.1 
 9. Donaldson, Canarias0.9 
 10. Antelo, Caceres0.9 


Alejandro Martinez has been named Spain's under-17 coach again - by Antonio Carlo

C.B. Canarias coach Alejandro Martinez has been named as the Spanish national coach under-17.
Martinez promoted C.B. Canarias to the ACB League after 21 years in an exile between LEB and EBA divisions and his hard work has not been ignored by the technical staff of the Spanish Federation.
In an interview in El Dia newspaper, Martinez confessed his happiness to return to work with the Spanish Federation as a head coach with the under-17 male group. He said: After being busy for two summers with my current team C.B. Canarias, I am happy the technical staff of the Spanish Federation called me back to work again with the under-17 team.
Previously, I have been working as an assistant coach and two times as a head coach with the under-17 group. This summer the team will be involved in a World Cup competition and this is a new experience for me as before I was only involved in European Championships.


Caja Laboral wins in Madrid, Barca destroys Valencia in Game One - by Eurobasket News

First games of Liga Endesa Semifinals are completed. Caja Laboral did a great job celebrating 81-71 road victory against Real Madrid for 1-0 lead in the series. The defending champion Regal Barca blasted Valencia 84-57 at Palau Blaugrana. The format is best-of-five and second games are scheduled for Saturday and Sunday. Same teams will be the hosts.

FCB Regal - Valencia 84-57 (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 down low during the game scoring 58 of its points in the paint compared to Valencia Basket's 38. Erazem Lorbek (209-84, college: Michigan St.) nailed 15 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists for the winning side and Pete Mickeal (199-78, college: Cincinnati) accounted for 14 points and 6 rebounds. Vitor Faverani (211-88) came up with 19 points and 5 rebounds and Niklas Caner-Medley (203-83, college: Maryland, agency: Beo Basket) added 7 points and 8 rebounds respectively for Valencia Basket 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:
FCB Regal: E.Lorbek 15+6reb+5ast, P.Mickeal 14+6reb+1ast, B.Ndong 14+5reb, J.Ingles 9+1reb, J.Wallace 9+5reb+2ast, F.Vazquez 8+4reb
Valencia: V.Faverani 19+5reb, B.Newley 13+1reb+1ast, N.Caner-Medley 7+8reb+2ast, V.Claver 6+3reb, S.Markovic 6+1reb+4ast, N.De Colo 5+1reb+2ast
gschID: 177024


Real Madrid - Caja Laboral 71-81 (0-1)
The guests trailed by 3 points at the halftime before their 40-27 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Maciej Lampe (210-C-85) (210-85) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 21 points and 11 rebounds for the winners and Nemanja Bjelica (209-88, agency: Interperformances) chipped in 14 points and 5 rebounds. At the losing side international power forward Felipe Reyes (203-80) responded with 8 points and 7 rebounds and Mirza Begic (217-85) scored 9 points and 8 rebounds.
Top scorers:
Caja Laboral: M.Lampe 21+11reb+1ast, N.Bjelica 14+5reb+1ast, F.San Emeterio 13+2reb+2ast, M.Bjelica 9+5reb, B.Oleson 9+3reb+1ast, M.Teletovic 7+3reb
Real Madrid: N.Velickovic 12+4reb, S.Rodriguez 10+1ast, M.Begic 9+8reb, J.Carroll 8+2reb+1ast, F.Reyes 8+7reb+2ast, S.Llull 7


Teams will meet in Game Three on Tuesday and Wednesday. If necessary, they will play again on May 31/June 1 and June 2/3. Real Madrid lost the home court advantage against Caja Laboral, while Barca kept it against Valencia. Barca was the regular season champion in Liga Endesa with 29-5 record.


LEB Silver Finals: Prat Juventud wins in Game 3 - by Eurobasket News

LEB Silver Finals, Game 3: Prat Juventud - Ourense 80-67 (1-2)

The game was mostly controlled by Prat Juventud. Ourense managed to win third quarter 19-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They made 16-of-21 free shots (76.2 percent) during the game. It was a good game for guard Ferran Bassas (185-G-92) (185-92) who led his team to a victory with 14 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. Montenegrin forward Marko Todorovic (203-92) contributed with 13 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Four Prat Juventud players scored in double figures. American guard Kyle Hill (188-79, college: E.Illinois) answered with 13 points and point guard Francisco Cardenas (177-90) added 11 points in the effort for Ourense. Both coaches used bench players. Game Four - Friday. Prat will be the host.
Top scorers:
Prat Juventud: A.Ventura 15+2reb+3ast, F.Bassas 14+6reb+5ast, M.Todorovic 13+7reb+1ast, G.Marti 11+8reb, J.Tomas 9+4reb+1ast, A.Suarez 6+3reb
Ourense: K.Hill 13+2reb+1ast, F.Cardenas 11+1reb+2ast, P.Movilla 9+4reb+1ast, R.Guillandeaux 8+2reb+1ast, J.Fernandez 8+2reb+1ast, M.Webster 6+2reb


Fuenlabrada locks James Feldeine until 2015 - by Eurobasket News

James Feldeine (193-G-88, college: Quinnipiac) is a new member of Fuenlabrada. The American/Dominican guard signed a 3-year contract with the club. He will play for Fuenla as Cotonou due to his Dominican citizenship. Feldeine spent last two seasons with Breogan. In the latest one he had 17.7 ppg, 4.1 rpg and 1.7 for 38 games in LEB Gold. In 2010/11, Feldeine averaged 15.2 points, 3.1 rebounds and 1.5 assists in 41 games. It was his first season as a pro. James Feldeine is a product of Quinnipiac University, where he graduated two years ago. He had 16.5 ppg, 5.8 rpg and 2.5 apg for his school as a senior. James Feldeine was named Eurobasket.com All-Spanish LEB Gold 3rd Team -11. He will most probably be awarded for this season as well.


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

Stats Leaders - Men

Points Per Game
 Randy CULPEPPER
  Fe.
  (182-G-89)
  Avg: 22.1
 1. Culpepper, Fe.22.1 
 2. Solomon, Cherkasy22.1 
 3. Burtt, Dnipro18.9 
 4. Deane, BC Odessa18.4 
 5. Vukosavljevi., Hal.17.9 
 6. King, BC Odessa17.3 
 7. Guinn, Fe.16.9 
 8. Mitchell, Khimik16.9 
 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, Azovmash7.6 
 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. Florence, Kryvbasb.5.1 
 6. Burtt, Dnipro5.1 
 7. Ewing, Azovmash4.8 
 8. Randle, Azovmash4.8 
 9. Walsh, Azovmash4.7 
 10. Vaughn, Mykolaiv4.6 
Steals Per Game
 James FLORENCE
  Kryvbasb.
  (185-G-88)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Florence, Kryvbasb.1.9 
 2. Chappell, Fe.1.9 
 3. House, Dnipro1.9 
 4. Solomon, Cherkasy1.7 
 5. Minard, Azovmash1.7 
 6. Mitchell, Khimik1.7 
 7. Ewing, Azovmash1.7 
 8. Culpepper, Fe.1.6 
 9. Sirsnins, DniproAz.1.6 
 10. Tiggs, Hoverla1.6 
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. Korniyenko, Dnipro1.5 
 8. Rizvic, Azovmash1.5 
 9. Hunter, Mykolaiv1.4 
 10. Hunter, Fe.1.3 


Dnipro part ways with Konstantyn Glazyrin - by Eurobasket News

Dnipro split ways with Konstantyn Glazyrin (202-F-88). The sides decided not to prolong the contract. The forward spent all his career in Dnipropetrovsk. Last season Konstantyn Glazyrin averaged 0.5 rebounds and 0.5 assists per game in VTB League. In Superleague his stats read 1.7 points per appearance. Konstantyn Glazyrin was the member of Ukrainian University National Team in 2011. He also attended National Team training camps in 2010 and 2011. Konstantyn Glazyrin participated at 2010 All-Star Game. He became Slam Dunk Contest Co-Winner.
Dnipro earlier extended the deals with Valdemaras Chomicius (agency: Alti Sport ) and Derrick Low (188-PG-86, college: Washington St.).


BC Donetsk celebrate Superleague title - by Eurobasket News

Azovmash - BC Donetsk 79:84

BC Donetsk earned Superleague title. They defeated Azovmash in the fourth game of the series to complete the sweep. Vojdan Stojanovski (193-G-87) scored 17 points to lead the winners. Ramel Curry was named Superleague MVP.
The fourth game of the series started as a heated battle. The teams stayed close throughout the opening quarter. BC Donetsk eked out a 24:23 lead after ten minutes. But the hosts struck right back in the second quarter. They unleashed 28 points in the period to establish a 51:32 halftime lead. However BC Donetsk refused to surrender. The visitors knocked down 28 points in the third term to narrow the margin. The visitors cut the distance to 10 points with one quarter remaining. BC Donetsk went on a 15:2 run early in the final frame to surge ahead. Othello Hunter levelled things up but Ivan Radenovic (208-F-84, college: Arizona) drained a three-pointer and Vojdan Stojanovski added two points from the stripe to seal the victory for the visitors. Ivan Radenovic posted 16 points, while Vule Avdalovic (189-PG-81, agency: Beo Basket) and Viacheslav Kravtsov (211-C-87, agency: Beo Basket) contributed 12 points each for the winners. Matt Walsh (197-F/G-82, college: Florida) answered with 21 points for Azovmash. Radoslav Rancik (207-F/C-79, agency: Beo Basket, college: St.Cloud St.) had 18 points, 6 assists and 3 boards in the loss.

Azovmash: Matt Walsh 21, Radoslav Rancik 18
BC Donetsk: Vojdan Stojanovski 17, Ivan Radenovic 16, Vule Avdalovic 12, Viacheslav Kravtsov 12


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

Standings - Metropolitan League

Metropolitan Standings
 1. Cader 2-0 
 2. Urunday Univ. 2-0 
 3. Verdirrojo 1-0 
 4. Atenas 1-1 
 5. Capitol 1-1 
 6. Marne 1-1 
 7. Yale 1-1 
 8. Larranaga 0-0 
 9. Goes 0-1 
 10. Guruyu Waston 0-2 
 11. Romis N. 0-2 

Regular Season: Round 2

May. 21: Capitol - Romis N. 79-67
May. 21: Urunday Univ. - Goes 77-74
May. 22: Atenas - Cader 71-78
May. 22: Guruyu Waston - Yale 69-70
May. 21: Verdirrojo - Marne 69-66

Regular Season: Round 3

May. 25: Capitol - Atenas
May. 25: Romis N. - Urunday Univ.
May. 25: Verdirrojo - Goes
May. 25: Guruyu Waston - Larranaga
May. 25: Yale - Marne




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

Women News


WNBL stars to lead Emerging Opals tour - by Eurobasket News

WNBL stars Tess Madgen (180-G/F-90) and Cayla Francis (192-C-89) headline the bumper Emerging Opals squad ahead of their six-game tour of China in June.

The two established stars of the WNBL competition are joined by a mix of young guns and seasoned veterans identified as potential Jayco Opals, making up the 12-player squad for the four-team tournament where the Emerging Opals will face the senior teams from China, Angola and trans-Tasman neighbour New Zealand.

After making her debut for the Jayco Opals in 2011, Madgen was unfortunate to miss out on selection for the London training squad after back-to-back MVP seasons with the Bendigo Spirit.

Making the move to join former Opals coach Tom Maher at Bulleen this off season, the 21-year-old will be out to use the Emerging Opals opportunity to re-establish herself in the senior program.

For Francis the chance to play for the Emerging Opals comes just days after being released from the Jayco Opals training squad for London.

Along with Madgen the Logan Thunder star will be joined by a host of established WNBL talent, including Townsville Fire point guard Rachael Flanagan (170-G-82), Dandenong WNBL Championship star Stephanie Cumming (178-G-90) and Adelaide Lightning youngster Stephanie Talbot.

The AIS has again continued its proud history of producing international-calibre players with six of their rising stars making the grade including 2012 Betty Watson WNBL Rookie of the Year Carley Mijovic (197-C-94) (now with Dandenong), Olivia Thompson (185-F-93) (signed recently with Townsville), Mikhaela Donnelly (177-94) (joined Logan), Casey Samuels, Tenaya Phillips and Darcee Garbin.

All six have represented Australia at international level in youth tournaments, but will get their first taste of competition against senior teams, with New Zealand in full preparations for their upcoming qualifying tournament for London.

The tour will run from June 5-17 with the Emerging Opals faces a hectic schedule of six games in eight days, starting with Angola on June 8 in Suzhou City.

Emerging Opals Squad:
TESS MADGEN
STEPHANIE CUMMING
OLIVIA THOMPSON
KATIE EBZERY
TENAYA PHILLIPS
CASEY SAMUELS
DARCEE GARBIN
CARLEY MIJOVIC
STEPHANIE TALBOT
MIKHAELA DONNELLY
RACHAEL FLANAGAN
CAYLA FRANCIS

Courtesy of WNBL Australia


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


Izzy Castros WNBA status unknown - by Mel Devonne

Izzy Castro, who played the last two seasons for the Atlanta Dream is not on the roster and is
not expected to play for the Dream this season.
Izzy, and Brasilain Erika de Souza are the top 2 players in Brasil and both have been WNBA allstars,
and are memebers of the Brasilian national team that will play in the London Olympics this summer.
While Erika is expected to return to the Dream after the Olympics, Izzy Castro will not be back with the
Dream for the 2012 season.
The question is why? The Dream have been in the WNBA finals two years in a row, and are one of the top teams in the league.
Izzy Castro has been a major part of the rise of the Atlanta Dream.
Izzy did drop off in performance during the 2011 season, but came on in the playoffs, and was a major part
of the Dreams extended playoff run.
She averaged 8.8 points a game last season for the Dream ,and led the Brasil national league in scoring with
26.2 per game this past season.
Lets hope she is picked up by another WNBA team after the Olympic games.


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


Basket Parma keeps C Sonja Kireta - by Eurobasket News

Basket Parma signed a one-year contract extension with Sonja Kireta (198-C-76). The Croatian center joined the club in January from Spanish Perfumerias. She played 11 games in SerieA1 collecting 15.5 ppg and 6.9 rpg. With Perfumerias, Kireta averaged 11.3 points and 6.3 rebounds for 3 games in LFB. She also had 3 ppg and 4.7 rpg for 3 Euroleague games. Sonja Kireta spent 2010/11 season with French Nantes. Before that, she played for USK Praha, Bourges and Valenciennes USVO. She won the French LFB title and Cup in 2008 with Bourges. A year after that, Kireta won the title in Czech Republic with USK Praga. She reached EuroCup Quarterfinals with Nantes in 2011. Kireta played for the Croatian National Team at 2007 EuroBasket in Italy.


Novi Zagreb proudly announce Inja Butina - by Vladimir Ivankovic

WBC Novi Zagreb is proud to announce the signature of Inja Butina (172 - PG - 1995), one of the greatest talents of Croatian women's basketball, and certainly the most promising point guard. The former member of Croatia, 2006, signed a four-year contract.

Last weekend Inja 'dragged' Croatia 2006 to second place of Croatian junior championship, and with 39 points (24 against Jolly in semi's and 15 against Medvescak in finals) is the best scorer of the final tournament. During the Junior semi-final tournament, held prior to 14 days in Virje, she was earned the MVP title. Interestingly, the Jolly team was led by 'famous' Dujic and Cigic, two young players who ruined Novi Zagreb's dreams of entering the play off finals of Division 1. Inja destroyed their dreams, and is therefore a logical move by the club management about bringing Inja in the team.

'The facts we brought Inja to our club is a strong demonstrative example of changing the direction of the club's policy, in terms of development of young players and the team's future. Inja will have the maximum possible opportunity, playing with and against the top Croatian players in our club. It is invaluable for her, as young player to gain experience playing not only in Croatian the league fighting for survival as it was this year, but in strong games that decide the title. The same goes for matches in European competitions and in the Adriatic league. According to estimates of top Croatian basketball authorities (Zeljko Ciglar, Marijan Pasaric, Borna Augusti), Inja has the potential to reach and even surpass the performance of many other players, and even Nike Baric. We'll take great care of it. '- said the coach Vladimir Ivankovic.


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


USK Praha signs Anna De Forge - by Eurobasket News

Anna De Forge (178-SG-76, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Nebraska) is a new member of USK Praha. They signed a one-year deal yesterday. De Forge will play for the club as a Bosman due to her Montenegrin citizenship. Anna De Forge spent last season with Turkish team Pankup Ted Kayseri Kolejspor. She had 8.3 ppg, 3.1 rpg and 1.6 apg in 14 EuroCup games, while Kayseri reached the Finals. In TKBL, De Forge added 10.9 ppg and 4.1 rpg. Before Kayseri, Anna De Forge spent two years with Hondarribia-Irun. She also has experience from Besiktas, Wisla Can-Pak Krakow and WNBA. In 2006, De Forge was named Eurobasket.com All-Polish PLKK Player of The Year -06. She won two Polish league titles with Wisla Can-Pack. Anna De Forge played for the Montenegrin National Team last summer in Poland. She had 13.4 ppg, 4.9 rpg and 2.6 apg for 8 games.


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


USK Praha signs Anna De Forge - by Eurobasket News

Anna De Forge (178-SG-76, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Nebraska) is a new member of USK Praha. They signed a one-year deal yesterday. De Forge will play for the club as a Bosman due to her Montenegrin citizenship. Anna De Forge spent last season with Turkish team Pankup Ted Kayseri Kolejspor. She had 8.3 ppg, 3.1 rpg and 1.6 apg in 14 EuroCup games, while Kayseri reached the Finals. In TKBL, De Forge added 10.9 ppg and 4.1 rpg. Before Kayseri, Anna De Forge spent two years with Hondarribia-Irun. She also has experience from Besiktas, Wisla Can-Pak Krakow and WNBA. In 2006, De Forge was named Eurobasket.com All-Polish PLKK Player of The Year -06. She won two Polish league titles with Wisla Can-Pack. Anna De Forge played for the Montenegrin National Team last summer in Poland. She had 13.4 ppg, 4.9 rpg and 2.6 apg for 8 games.


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


Angers wins Trophe Coupe de France - by Juliane Hoehne

On May 19th and 20th, the Cup Finals were held in Paris Bercy. On Saturday, Angers - Union Feminine Basket 49 faced Saint Etienne Case B for the Final in Trophe Coupe de France. Saint Etienne Case B had the better start, taking a 10-2 lead, whereas the two points of Angers - Union Feminine Basket 49 were only free throws. Also, for the rest of the first quarter, Saint Etienne Case B seemed to dominate the players of Head Coach David Girandiere , taking on a 20-6 lead in the 9th min. UFAB was able to come within 10 just before the end of the first quarter (20-10). In the second half, Angers - Union Feminine Basket 49 started to fight back, cutting the deficit down to just 4 at halftime and gaining their confidence back (34-30, 20th min).
At the beginning of the second half, UFAB came out strong, led by their Forward Carine Brossais (185-F-89). At the end of the third quarter, UFAB gained for the first time a lead (48-47), which they were able to keep throughout the fourth quarter, even though the game remained close. With one minute to go, Aurelie Favre (173-F-91) knocked down a three-pointer to make it 63-60. Shortly later, Sophie Le Marrec (184-F-91) extended the lead to 64-60 by scoring one free-throw. With less than 20sec to go, Clarisse Mpaka (178-F-84) hit from behind the arc, to bring Saint Etienne Case B within 1 (64-63). To stop the clock, Saint Etienne Case B fouled Favre, who also scored one of two free throws to make it 65-63 with 11sec left. Angers - Union Feminine Basket 49 still hadnt crossed the team foul limit, and used their fouls wisely on defense to slow down Saint Etienne Case B. At the end, they only had 2seconds left to get a shot off, which didnt go in, leaving UFAB with the second title of Trophe Coupe de France in just two years (2010 and 2012).
Top Scorers for UFAB: Brossais 18, Aurelie Besson (173-G/F-90) 11, Favre 10
Top Scorers for Saint Etienne Case B: Angelina Crealock (169-G-79) 20, Babette Nivet (F) 13, Katalin Kurtozi (193-C-81, agency: LBM Management, college: St.John's) 12
Next Saturday, both teams face again for the 5th play-off game. The winner of this game will most likely be promoted to LF2, therefore, also a close game is expected!


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


Italian National Team 2012 - by Eurobasket Center

Italian National Team 2012
#s#
Benedetta Bagnara
Bagnara
Sabrina Cinili
Cinili
Martina Crippa
Crippa
Valentina Fabbri
Fabbri
Martina Fassina
Fassina
#e#5
Benedetta Bagnara 178-G-87 Lucca Italy
Sabrina Cinili 190-F-89 Umbertide Italy
Martina Crippa 175-G/F-88 Bracco Geas Italy
Marie D'alie Raelin 168-PG-87 Battipaglia Italy
Valentina Fabbri 196-C-85 Priolo Italy
Martina Fassina 182-G/F-88 Alcamo Italy
Alessandra Formica 186-G-93 Umana Reyer Italy
Giulia Gatti 172-G-89 Comense Italy
Gaia Gorini 182-G-92 Umbertide Italy
Maria Laterza 190-C-89 UBBC Austria
Francesca Mariani 188-F-85 Orvieto Italy
Lavinia Santucci 186-F-85 Faenza Italy
Giorgia Sottana 177-G-88 Taranto Italy
Laura Spreafico 182-F/G-91 Comense Italy
Nnena Wabara 183-F-81 Cagliari CUS Italy
Ilaria Zanoni 180-G-86 Bracco Geas Italy

Roberto Ricchini Head Coach Taranto Italy



Basket Parma keeps C Sonja Kireta - by Eurobasket News

Basket Parma signed a one-year contract extension with Sonja Kireta (198-C-76). The Croatian center joined the club in January from Spanish Perfumerias. She played 11 games in SerieA1 collecting 15.5 ppg and 6.9 rpg. With Perfumerias, Kireta averaged 11.3 points and 6.3 rebounds for 3 games in LFB. She also had 3 ppg and 4.7 rpg for 3 Euroleague games. Sonja Kireta spent 2010/11 season with French Nantes. Before that, she played for USK Praha, Bourges and Valenciennes USVO. She won the French LFB title and Cup in 2008 with Bourges. A year after that, Kireta won the title in Czech Republic with USK Praga. She reached EuroCup Quarterfinals with Nantes in 2011. Kireta played for the Croatian National Team at 2007 EuroBasket in Italy.


*****************************************************
  OLYMPIC GAMES   

Standings - Women

Standings
Group A
1. Angola0-0
2. Chile0-0
3. USA0-0
Group B
1. Australia0-0
2. Brazil0-0
3. U.Kingdom0-0
4. Russia0-0
Qualification Gr.A
1. Japan0-0
2. P.Rico0-0
3. Turkey0-0
Qualification Gr.B
1. Argentina0-0
2. Czech Rep.0-0
3. N.Zealand0-0
Qualification Gr.C
1. Croatia0-0
2. S.Korea0-0
3. Mozambique0-0
Qualification Gr.D
1. Canada0-0
2. France0-0
3. Mali0-0

Additional Qualifying Round: Round 1

Qual. A

Jun. 25: PUR - TUR

Qual. B

Jun. 25: CZE - NZL

Qual. C

Jun. 25: CRO - MOZ

Qual. D

Jun. 25: MLI - CAN



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


CCC Polkowice lands Valeriya Berezhynska - by Lukasz Lukaszewski

Official page of the club announced that CCC Polkowice sign contract with 26year-old center, Valeriya Berezhynska (193-C-86, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Rice). She had been a part of Ukrainian National Team in the past but did not get a nomination in this year.

Valeriya Berezhynska graduated Rice in 2008. In her last season in NCAA she averaged 17 points and 9,9 rebounds. Then she noted an episode in WNBA. She was in 3 teams
(Detroit Shock, Sacramento Monarchs and San Antonio Silver Stars), but she were playing only in two games. In Europe she have been playing in French league for 4 seasons.

In 2008/2009 she was a part of Saint Jacques Sport Reims II. Then she moved to USO Mondeville for next two seasons. Valeriya Berezhynska has got experience from EuroCup and
Euroleague Women from Mondeville. Last season she were in Flammes Carolo Basket Ardennes ASPTT, where she averaged 9,3 points and 5 rebounds.



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


Irina Osipova signs deal with Istanbul Universitesi - by Eurobasket News

As expected, Irina Osipova (196-C/F-81) became a new member of Istanbul Universitesi. The Russian NT center signed a deal for the next season. Osipova spent last seven years with Spartak Vidnoe Moscow Region. She had 7.1 ppg, 5.7 rpg and 1.3 bpg for 15 games in Russia last season. Osipova also added 6.4 ppg and 5.9 rpg for 17 Euroleague games. She had almost the same numbers in 2010/11. Irina Osipova won many titles and personal awards with Spartak. They were Euroleague champions four straight times from 2007 to 2010. Osipova is active member of the Russian National Team since 2001. With them she also won big number of medals, including the Gold at 2011 EuroBasket in Poland. For 9 games at this even Irina Osipova averaged 5.7 points, 6.8 rebounds and 2.3 assists.
Istanbul Universitesi also signed guard Essence Carson (183-G-86, college: Rutgers) today. They are expected to bring in more players from abroad.


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


Serbia earn back-to-back wins over Slovenia in Zrece - by Eurobasket News

Slovenia and Serbia played two friendly games in Zrece. Serbia celebrated back-to-back wins. The third game of the series is scheduled for tonight.
Serbia earned a 79:59 victory in the opening encounter. The visitors led by 9 points at halftime 43:34. The gap keep on growing throughout the second half as Serbia rolled to a confident win at the end. Tamara Radocaj (170-PG-87) scored 14 points to lead the winners. Ana Dabovic (183-G/F-89) topscored with 16 points for Serbia. Eva Komplet (182-F/C-86) answered with 17 points for Slovenia. Sandra Pirsic (195-C-84) had 12 points in the loss.
Serbia had little problems in the second game as well. The visitors grabbed control early in the clash taking a 31:17 lead after ten minutes. The margin grew at 27-point mark at the final intermission and Serbia cruised to a 98:48 win at the end. Ana Dabovic connected for 22 points for Serbia. Jovanovic, Marina Mandic (181-G-83) and Nevena Saponjic (186-C-85) netted 11 points each in the win. Tina Trebec (189-F-90, agency: Kotnik Sports Agency) answered with 12 points for the hosts. Tjasa Gortnar (187-F-92) and Suzana Panic (175-G-92) provided 6 points apiece in defeat.


*****************************************************
  SLOVAKIA   


Spisska Nova Ves signed Smith-Williams - by Barbora Stuchlikova

American point guard Jade Smith-Williams (170-G) has signed a year contract with Spisska Nova Ves. Smith-Williams previously played in Chico State and UC Irvine. In season 2010-2011 she averaged 14,7 points per game. As a player she is admired for great leadership, toughness and dedication.


The following season is going to be her first overseas. As Jade says, when she graduated from college in June 2011, but she wasn't sure whether or not to pursue an opportunity to play overseas. By the time she decided to give it a shot, it was late and most teams already had full rosters.


Jade continues: Once October came around and I still hadn't received an offer, I had to make a very difficult decision to either continue to workout all day and prepare for a hopeful opportunity abroad, or start looking for a job.[...] While I tried to convince myself that, I was done with basketball and ready to start a 'regular life', I still sometimes thought about giving it another shot. I just was frustrated with the way things had gone the first time around and wasn't sure if that opportunity would ever present itself to me.


As she says, a friend recently contacted her to let her know about a potential opportunity to go play. She followed up with it and things ended up working out.
Jade adds: Now that I actually do have this opportunity to play, it is clear to me that I really wasn't done with basketball. Things sort of just worked themselves out and here I am today, on my way to play in Slovakia.


Although, the following season is going to be the first one for Spisska Nova Ves in Slovak Extraliga, they are determined to make their best to be a tough rival for other teams. Besides Slovak players and Smith-Williams, they plan to sign another foreign force and in the summer, the team is going to participate in a tournament in Italy.


*****************************************************
  SLOVENIA   


Serbia earn back-to-back wins over Slovenia in Zrece - by Eurobasket News

Slovenia and Serbia played two friendly games in Zrece. Serbia celebrated back-to-back wins. The third game of the series is scheduled for tonight.
Serbia earned a 79:59 victory in the opening encounter. The visitors led by 9 points at halftime 43:34. The gap keep on growing throughout the second half as Serbia rolled to a confident win at the end. Tamara Radocaj (170-PG-87) scored 14 points to lead the winners. Ana Dabovic (183-G/F-89) topscored with 16 points for Serbia. Eva Komplet (182-F/C-86) answered with 17 points for Slovenia. Sandra Pirsic (195-C-84) had 12 points in the loss.
Serbia had little problems in the second game as well. The visitors grabbed control early in the clash taking a 31:17 lead after ten minutes. The margin grew at 27-point mark at the final intermission and Serbia cruised to a 98:48 win at the end. Ana Dabovic connected for 22 points for Serbia. Jovanovic, Marina Mandic (181-G-83) and Nevena Saponjic (186-C-85) netted 11 points each in the win. Tina Trebec (189-F-90, agency: Kotnik Sports Agency) answered with 12 points for the hosts. Tjasa Gortnar (187-F-92) and Suzana Panic (175-G-92) provided 6 points apiece in defeat.


Slovenian National Team 2012 - by Eurobasket Center

Slovenian National Team 2012
#s#
Nika Baric
Baric
Martina Dover
Dover
Maja Erkic
Erkic
Teja Oblak
Oblak
Sasa Panic
Panic
#e#5
Nika Baric 169-PG-92 Spartak V MR Russia
Martina Dover 177-G-86 Gospic Croatia
Maja Erkic 183-G/F-85 Familia Schio Italy
Teja Oblak 171-G-90 Athlete Celje Slovenia
Sasa Panic 171-PG-86 Grosuplje Slovenia
Eva Rupnik 177-F-92 Jezica Slovenia
Polona Zalar 176-G-91 Triglav Slovenia
Ziva Zdolsek 178-G-89 Triglav Slovenia
Lea Jagodic 182-F-91 Athlete Celje Slovenia
Tina Jakovina 182-F-92 Grosuplje Slovenia
Eva Komplet 182-F/C-86 Gospic Croatia
Tjasa Gortnar 187-F-92 Georgia Tech USA
Martina Osterman 188-F-88 Sloboda Bosnia
Sandra Pirsic 195-C-84 Villeneuve France
Tina Trebec 189-F-90 Athlete Celje Slovenia

Boris Zrinski Head Coach AJM Maribor Slovenia
Emir Haskic Assistant Hit K.Gora Slovenia
Tomo Oresnik Assistant Triglav Slovenia



*****************************************************
  SWEDEN   


Sallen extends G Agnes Nordstrom - by Eurobasket News

Good news for BC Sallen fans. The team signed a one-year contract extension with its star Agnes Nordstrom (181-G-88). She joined Sallen last summer and led them to Damligan Semifinals. She had 14.7 ppg, 7 rpg and 2.6 apg for 28 games in the league. Before Sallen, Nordstrom spent one season with Gran Canaria (Spain). There she had limited playing time in both LFB and EuroCup. Nordstrom had about 4 ppg and 3 rpg in these two competitions. In the past, she played for 08 Stockholm, Marbo Basket and Visby Ladies. Agnes Nordstrom is active member of the Swedish National Team since 2009. She had 4 ppg, 2.7 rpg and 1.3 spg for 10 games in Qualifications to European Championships Division B 2011.


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


Homend Antakya brings in 2011 Guard of the Year Jolene Anderson - by Eurobasket News

According to Turkish media (Pota6), Homend Antakya stepped up with another singing. Reportedly, the team penned a one-year deal with American guard Jolene Anderson (175-SG-86, college: Wisconsin). During the week Homend Antakya already brought in French PG Lucie Bouthors (174-PG-88).
Jolene Anderson spent last season with Polish Lotos Gdynia. She shined with 15.8 ppg, 3.8 rpg, 1.6 apg and 1.6 spg for 12 games in Euroleague. In PLKK, Anderson averaged 14.1 points, 4.1 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 1.8 steals in 37 games. She was named Eurobasket.com All-Polish PLKK Honorable Mention. Lotos reached PLKK and Cup Semifinals last season. Anderson is not a new face in Turkey as she played for Botas in 2010/11 season. She was the top scorer of the league with 20.4 ppg for 27 games. Anderson also added 7.1 rpg, 2.7 rpg and 2 spg for the club. She was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Turkish TKBL Guard of the Year -11. In the past, Anderson played for French Villeneuve.


Carolyn Swords joins Ceyhan Belediyesi - by Eurobasket News

According to Turkish media (Pota6), Carolyn Swords (198-C-89, agency: LBM Management, college: Boston Coll.) stays in Turkey for the next season. Reportedly, the American center signed a deal with Ceyhan Belediyesi. She currently plays in the WNBA with the Chicago Sky. Swords split last season between Spain and Turkey. She started it with Soller Joventud Mariana averaging 13.5 points and 8.4 rebounds for 11 games in LFB. In January, the player moved to Istanbul Universitesi SK. With them she had 11.9 ppg, 10.8 rpg and 1 bpg for 12 games. It was the first season in Europe for Carolyn Swords, who graduated at the Boston College something more than a year ago. She had 17.5 ppg, 9.5 rpg and 1.5 rpg for her school in 2010/11. After that, Swords got a deal with Chicago Sky averaging 2.5 points and 1.8 rebounds for 28 WNBA games.


Istanbul Universitesi lands Essence Carson - by Eurobasket News

Essence Carson (183-G-86, college: Rutgers) will continue her career in Turkey. The American guard signed a deal with Istanbul Universitesi for the next season. She spent the last one in Spain with Rivas Ecopolis. Carson appeared 17 times in LFB averaging 12.1 points, 4.6 rebounds and 1.4 assists. She also added 12.6 ppg, 4.5 rpg and 1.3 apg for 21 Euroleague games. Rivas reached Euroleague Finals and Carson was named Eurobasket.com All-Euroleague Honorable Mention. Before Rivas Ecopolis, Essence Carson played in Hungary and Italy. She also played in the WNBA every year since 2008. Carson is a member of the New York Liberty. 2012 WNBA season started few days ago and Carson averages 9 points and 3 rebounds in after three games.


Irina Osipova signs deal with Istanbul Universitesi - by Eurobasket News

As expected, Irina Osipova (196-C/F-81) became a new member of Istanbul Universitesi. The Russian NT center signed a deal for the next season. Osipova spent last seven years with Spartak Vidnoe Moscow Region. She had 7.1 ppg, 5.7 rpg and 1.3 bpg for 15 games in Russia last season. Osipova also added 6.4 ppg and 5.9 rpg for 17 Euroleague games. She had almost the same numbers in 2010/11. Irina Osipova won many titles and personal awards with Spartak. They were Euroleague champions four straight times from 2007 to 2010. Osipova is active member of the Russian National Team since 2001. With them she also won big number of medals, including the Gold at 2011 EuroBasket in Poland. For 9 games at this even Irina Osipova averaged 5.7 points, 6.8 rebounds and 2.3 assists.
Istanbul Universitesi also signed guard Essence Carson (183-G-86, college: Rutgers) today. They are expected to bring in more players from abroad.


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


Center Valeriya Berezhynska moves to Poland - by Eurobasket News

Valeriya Berezhynska (193-C-86, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Rice) will play next season in Poland. The former National Team center signed a deal with CCC Polkowice. She arrives to the club from Flammes Carolo Basket Ardennes ASPTT, where she spent last season. Berezhynska played 26 games in French LFB averaging 9.3 points and 5 rebounds. From 2008 to 2011, Valeriya Berezhynska was a member of USO Mondeville. They reached LFB and Cup Semifinals in their first season together and Berezhynska was named Eurobasket.com All-French LFB Bosman Player of the Year -10. That same season Mondeville also reached EuroCup Quarterfinals. In 2010/11, the center averaged 11.2 ppg and 6.8 rpg for the club in 10 Euroleague games. In the past, Valeriya Berezhynska was a member of Reims and she also has some WNBA experience. She graduated at Rice University in 2008.


*****************************************************
  WNBA   

Standings

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

Regular Season: Round 4

May. 22: Tulsa S. - Phoenix M. 87-89
May. 22: L.Angeles S. - Seattle S. 74-61
May. 22: New York L. - Minnesota L. 62-80

Regular Season: Round 5

May. 24: Minnesota L. - L.Angeles S.
May. 25: Connecticut S. - S.Antonio SS
May. 25: Atlanta D. - New York L.
May. 25: Chicago S. - Indiana F.


Lynx-Los Angeles game preview - by Eurobasket News

Lynx at a glance: Seimone Augustus (6'2''-G-84, college: LSU) proved she was recovered from Sunday's rib injury against the New York Liberty. The 6-foot guard scored a game-high 22 points as the Lynx (2-0) won 80-62. ... After shooting 57.1 percent from the field in their season opener, the Lynx cooled only slightly to 51.6 in their second game. ... Ageless Taj McWilliams-Franklin (6'3''-C-70, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: St.Edward's) had a double-double (10 points and 10 rebounds) against one of her former teams. ... Maya Moore (6'0''-F-89, college: Connecticut) had a career-high seven assists plus 15 points and five rebounds.

Sparks at a glance: Los Angeles is 2-0 like the Lynx, beating Seattle twice in different ways. The Sparks rallied from a 21-point deficit in the second half to win by six in Seattle on Friday and then they won by 13 at home on Tuesday. ... Candace Parker (6'4''-F/C-86, college: Tennessee) had 21 points and 10 rebounds in the latest victory; as a team L.A. outrebounded the Storm 35-24. ... Guard Kristi Toliver (5'7''-PG-87, college: Maryland) has scored 25 points off the bench and 18 points as a starter.

Courtesy of www.startribune.com


Sparks PG Sharnee Zoll out for season with ACL injury - by Eurobasket News

The Los Angeles Sparks have announced that point guard Sharnee Zoll (5'7''-PG-86, college: Virginia) will miss the remainder of the 2012 season due to an ACL injury in her left knee.

'It's unfortunate that Sharnee won't be able to play this season,' Sparks Vice President and General Manager Penny Toler said in a release. 'Up until her injury, she was playing really well. We look forward to seeing what she can do next season.'

The first news of the injury came prior to last Friday's season-opener in Seattle, which Zoll sat out due to what was reported as a sore knee. As noted prior to that game, Zoll recorded preseason numbers that suggested she might be able to help fill the Sparks' vacancy at point guard this season.

Since ball handling is the biggest question for the team as of right now, Sharnee' Zoll's performance in the preseason is noteworthy. Maybe you can dismiss her 6 assists and 0 turnovers (21.05 PPR) in a blowout against Japan, but it's hard to dismiss an 8 assist and 2 turnover performance against the Seattle Storm (13.88 PPR). Even in preseason games with and against odd combinations, that sort of efficiency bodes well for the Sparks' point guard situation during the season.

Despite two impressive victories over the Seattle Storm to start the season, point guard - even someone who could fill a few minutes here and there - remains a need for the Sparks if they want to maximize their success this season. It will be interesting to see what they do next with Zoll now out for the season.

A few point guards with WNBA experience who were recently cut are Shannon Bobbitt, Sydney Colson, Loree Moore, and Andrea Riley. Bobbitt and Riley began their careers with the Sparks and have obviously gone elsewhere. Moore was in Sparks' camp last year but was not able to make it through training camp due to health issues. Colson's quickness and defensive pedigree from Texas A&M would seem to fit the Sparks' newfound defensive intensity, but she struggled to get minutes with the Liberty last season and was released before this season.

Courtesy of www.swishappeal.com