Eurobasket Daily News Report: 5/30/2012 1:04:01 AM

EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 5/30/2012 1:04:01 AM

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ACPBL

Trailblazers hoping for a NBA D-League exhibition game - by Mike Lee

The goal of the Norfolk Tru Hope Trailblazers organization has been to eventually become an NBA Development League franchise. After winning the 2010-2011 ACPBL title, the Trailblazers endured a year filled with controversy, including their removal from the ACPBL. The organization has even taken a hard look at shutting down operations due to financial difficulties.

However, head coach Emory Addison and the Trailblazers organization has reached out to three NBA D-League franchises in hopes of playing an exhibition game versus one of these teams prior to the start of their 2012-13 season. The Trailblazers have contacted the Maine Red Claws, the Springfield Armor, and the Erie Bay Hawks and are currently awaiting a response from the organizations. The Trailblazers organization is hoping that an exhibition with a NBA D-League team will create the necessary buzz for D-League basketball in this area. Also, the team hopes that an exhibition will also draw the attention of local legislators and business owners who will be vital in the team success moving forward.

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ARGENTINA

Stats Leaders - LigaA

Points Per Game

Joe SMITH
  La Union
  (193-G-77)
  Avg: 17.3

1. Smith, La Union	17.3
2. Gutierrez, Obras	16.7
3. Villegas, Sionista	16.6
4. McHopson, Quilm.	16.3
5. OBannon, Boca Jrs	16.1
6. DeGroat, Olimpico.	15.8
7. Quinteros, Regat.	15.6
8. Martinez, San M.	15.6
9. Meyinsse, Wuber-.	15.3
10. Pittman, Libertad.	15.3

Rebounds Per Game

Jack Michael MARTINEZ
  San M.
  (203-F/C-81)
  Avg: 12.4

1. Martinez, San M.	12.4
2. Battle, Libertad S.	9.9
3. Davis, GECR I.	9.5
4. Sandes, Sionista	9.1
5. Lloreda, Olimpico.	8.8
6. Gutierrez, Obras	8.5
7. Williams, Quimsa	7.6
8. DeGroat, Olimpico.	7.5
9. Truscott, Quilm.	7.3
10. Matthews, Quilm.	7.1

Assists Per Game

Facundo CAMPAZZO
  Penarol
  (179-PG-91)
  Avg: 6

1. Campazzo, Penarol	6.0
2. Sanchez, Wuber-.	5.5
3. Stanic, Boca Jrs	5.5
4. Cequeira, Sionista	4.8
5. Martinez, Regat.	4.7
6. Laprovittola, Lanus	3.8
7. Victoriano, San M.	3.7
8. Sucatzky, Atenas	3.7
9. Osimani, Obras	3.5
10. Ciorciari, GECR I.	3.4

Steals Per Game

Facundo CAMPAZZO
  Penarol
  (179-PG-91)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Campazzo, Penarol	2.3
2. Lescano, Atenas	2.3
3. Quinteros, Regat.	1.8
4. Moldu, Olimpico LB	1.7
5. McHopson, Quilm.	1.6
6. Ciorciari, GECR I.	1.5
7. Sanchez, Wuber-.	1.5
8. Treise, Libertad S.	1.4
9. DeGroat, Olimpico.	1.4
10. Stanic, Boca Jrs	1.4

Blocks Per Game

Robert BATTLE
  Libertad S.
  (204-C-81)
  Avg: 1.5

1. Battle, Libertad S.	1.5
2. Rollins, Sionista	1.2
3. Clancy, Club 9	1.2
4. Meyinsse, Wuber-.	1.2
5. Gutierrez, Obras	1.1
6. Matthews, Quilm.	1.0
7. Roe, Regatas C.	1.0
8. Rollins, San M.	0.9
9. Humphrey, Atenas	0.9
10. Garces, Atenas	0.9

Obras celebrates in Game Five 86-84, stays alive in LigaA Finals - by Eurobasket News

Finals, Game 5: Obras - Penarol 86-84 (2-3)

Fifth game of LigaA Finals between Obras and Penarol was played last night. The hosts grabbed 86-84 victory coming to 2-3 in the series. The format is best-of-seven and Penarol still needs one more win for the title. Martin Osimani (194-G-81, college: Duquesne) top-scored in Obras with 20 points and Pablo Espinoza (200-F-87) added 18 points, plus 5 rebounds. Juan Gutierrez (205-F/C-83) had double-double of 12 points and 11 rebs, while Tony Washam (200-F-82, college: St.Vincent) collected 12 points and 8 rebs. In the loosing squad, Leonardo Gutierrez (200-F-78) stepped up with 20 points and 5 rebs. Marcos Mata (201-F-86) registered 16 pts and 12 rebs, while Facundo Campazzo (179-PG-91) scored 15 points. It was a very exciting game and winner is decided in the finish. Quarters: 16-20, 25-15, 14-21, 31-28. Game Six of the series is scheduled for Thursday. Penarol will be the host.

Obras: Martin Osimani 20, Pablo Espinoza 18+5 boards, Juan Gutierrez 12+11 boards, Tony Washam 12+8 boards
Penarol: Leonardo Gutierrez 20+5 boards, Marcos Mata 16+12 boards, Facundo Campazzo 15

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AUSTRALIA

Stats Leaders - NBL

Points Per Game

Kevin LISCH
  Wildcats
  (188-G-86)
  Avg: 17.3

1. Lisch, Wildcats	17.3
2. Wilson, Taipans	17.3
3. Deleon, Blaze	16.6
4. Wilkinson, Breakers	16.6
5. Johnson, 36ers	16.5
6. Khazzouh, Kings	16.4
7. Tragardh, Tigers	16.3
8. Bose, Kings	15.5
9. Abercrombie, Break.	15.2
10. Crawford, Croco.	14.8

Rebounds Per Game

Julian KHAZZOUH
  Kings
  (209-C-86)
  Avg: 10.8

1. Khazzouh, Kings	10.8
2. Holmes, Crocodiles	9.0
3. Simpsons, 36ers	8.6
4. Grant, Kings	8.1
5. Johnson, 36ers	7.7
6. Crosswhite, Taipa.	7.7
7. Bose, Kings	6.7
8. Worthington, Blaze	6.3
9. Vukona, Breakers	6.1
10. Hudson, Blaze	6.0

Assists Per Game

Cedric JACKSON
  Breakers
  (191-G-86)
  Avg: 6.5

1. Jackson, Breakers	6.5
2. Gibson, Blaze	4.7
3. Bruce, Kings	4.4
4. Gill, Crocodiles	3.8
5. Martin, Hawks	3.6
6. Martin, Wildcats	3.5
7. Dillon, Tigers	3.4
8. Ubaka, Tigers	3.3
9. Deleon, Blaze	3.2
10. Lisch, Wildcats	3.2

Steals Per Game

Cedric JACKSON
  Breakers
  (191-G-86)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Jackson, Breakers	2.3
2. Martin, Wildcats	2.0
3. Deleon, Blaze	1.6
4. Gill, Crocodiles	1.4
5. Robbins, Wildcats	1.4
6. Mims, Crocodiles	1.3
7. Tovey, Wildcats	1.2
8. Gibson, Blaze	1.1
9. Lisch, Wildcats	1.1
10. Vukona, Breakers	1.1

Blocks Per Game

Julian KHAZZOUH
  Kings
  (209-C-86)
  Avg: 2.1

1. Khazzouh, Kings	2.1
2. Simpsons, 36ers	1.5
3. Grant, Kings	1.4
4. Nevill, Wildcats	1.1
5. Johnson, 36ers	1.0
6. Abercrombie, Break.	0.9
7. Crosswhite, Taipa.	0.9
8. Martin, Wildcats	0.8
9. Pledger, Breakers	0.8
10. Forman, Hawks	0.8

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BULGARIA

Golden season in Hungary for Hristo Nikolov - by Vladi Lazarova

Bulgarian National team player Hristo Nikolov (200-F-85, agency: Global Sports Plaza) finished on a champions track his best season abroad. After winning the Cup of Hungary with Szolnok two months ago and reaching EuroChallenge Final Four at the end of April, last night 26-years old forward won and the title.

This is second consecutive gold for Szolnok in Hungarian league and fourth overall in the club history after 1997, 2007, 2011, 2012. Nikolov and his teammates blasted Falco-Szova 102-84 in Game 4 of the finals.

They close the series with almost perfect 3-1. The hosts opened the game in style making 35-22 in the first ten minutes. They jumped to plus 23 at the halftime and later had no troubles to keep the comfortable lead. Quarters: 35-22, 28-18, 23-17, 16-27.

200 cm tall Bulgarian scored five points (1/2 for 2 pts, 1/2 for 3 pts) and grabbed five rebounds in his last game in Hungary.

'It's a special moment for me. I would like to thank to the club, to my teammates and my friends here and especially to these great fans of ours. It was an oustanding season and we made almost everything what we wanted in the beginning' , said Nikolov, who is coming to Bulgaria for a short break before joining Bulgarian National team preparation for Eurobasket 2013 qualification tournament.

Assignia Manresa signs Aleksandar Yanev - by Eurobasket News

Assignia Manresa officially announced signing of Aleksandar Yanev (203-F-90, agency: Interperformances). The Bulgarian forward arrives to the club from Euroins Cherno More. He had 17.1 ppg, 8.6 rpg and 1.4 apg for them in 23 Bulgarian league games. Yanev also spent some time with Kavala during the season. There he averaged 2 points and 1 rebound for 3 games in Greek A1 league. Aleksandar Yanev is a product of Cherno More, where started as a teenager. In 2010/11, the player had 14.6 ppg, 8.6 rpg and 1.6 apg for 29 games in NBL. Yanev is a member of the Bulgarian National Team since 2009. He appeared 3 times at EuroBasket in Lithuania registering 1 ppg and 2 rpg. During the EuroBasket Qualifications he had 6.3 ppg and 4.2 rpg for 6 games. In the past, Yanev successfully played for U20, U18 and U16 Bulgaria.

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CANADA

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

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

Joel Anthony

#1. This week's number one is an international center Joel Anthony (206-82, college: UNLV). He contributed to an easy victory against the Indiana Pacers (42-24) crushing them 115-83 in the NBA in Tuesday night's game. Anthony scored 7 points, grabbed 5 rebounds and made 4 blocks in 31 minutes on the court. The Miami Heat has a solid 46-20 record this season. It's Anthony's fourth year with the team. This year he averages: 3.5ppg, 3.9rpg, 1.3bpg, 2FGP: 56.2%(100-178) and FT: 70.7% in the 76 games he played so far. Anthony is currently a member of the Canadian senior national team.

Philip Martin

#2. Second place goes to former international forward Philip Martin (202-80, college: Hawaii), who plays in the Italian Lega2 (second division). He could not help Sigma Barcellona (16-12) in their last game on Wednesday. Despite Martin's very good performance Sigma Barcellona was defeated 102-97 on the road by the higher-ranked Enel Brindisi (#3). He was the second best scorer with 20 points. Martin also added 6 rebounds. Martin's overall stats this season are: 8.2ppg, 4.3rpg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 61.4%(105-171), 3FGP: 37.5% and FT: 82.8%. He has a dual citizenship: Canadian and Italian. Despite Martin played previously for the Italian national team, he played also for the Canadian national team in 2009.

Jevohn Shepherd

#3. The Canadian player who performed third best last week abroad was an international forward Jevohn Shepherd (196-86, college: Michigan). Shepherd was not able to help Leiden (3-1) in their game against Den Bosch (2-2) in the Dutch Eredivisie. He scored 9 points, grabbed 6 rebounds and dished 3 assists in 29 minutes. But the first-placed Leiden lost 61-65 at home to the second-ranked Den Bosch in the Group A. Shepherd has relatively good stats this year: 13.0ppg, 5.0rpg, 1.1apg, 2FGP: 49.5%, 3FGP: 18.8% and FT: 74.1% in the 34 games. Despite he played previously for the Italian national team, Shepherd is currently a member of the Canadian senior national team.

Olumuyiwa Famutimi

#4. Swingman Olumuyiwa Famutimi (198-84, college: Arkansas) led Optimum TED to a 3-point victory over the closely-ranked Gaziantep (26-12) 72-69 in the Turkish TB2L (second division) in Friday night's game. He was MVP of the game. Famutimi recorded 19 points and grabbed 8 rebounds. Optimum TED Kolejliler Ankara (30-8) is placed second in the TB2L. It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row. This season Famutimi has relatively solid stats: 10.9ppg, 5.3rpg, 1.1apg and 1.2spg. He is another player who holds two passports: Nigerian and Canadian. Despite Famutimi played previously for the Nigerian national team, he is currently in the Canadian national team roster.

Galen Young

#5. An experienced former international forward Galen Young (198-75, college: Charlotte), who plays in the New Zealand NBL was not able to secure a victory for Bay Hawks (13-3) in their last game. Despite Young's very good performance the league leader Bay Hawks lost in an overtime 88-94 on their home court in Tamatea to the lower-ranked (#4) Wellington Exodus Saints. He recorded 15 points, 9 rebounds and 7 assists in 40 minutes. Young has reliable stats this year: 11.5ppg, 7.1rpg and 3.7apg in the 17 games. He is a naturalized American. Despite Young played previously for the USA national team, he is currently in the Canadian national team roster.

Matthew Rachar

#6. Forward Matthew Rachar (201-86) contributed to a Xion Dukes' victory against the leader Gmunden Swans (23-7) 67-55 in the Austrian A Bundesliga on Thursday night. Rachar recorded 6 points. It was the game of the round between two top 3 ranked teams in Group A. Xion Dukes Klosterneuburg (21-9) is placed second. It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row. Rachar's overall stats this season are: 2.6ppg and 2.4rpg. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Rachar is also a former international player as he played for the Canadian senior team two years ago.

Other top Canadian players, who play abroad:

Baruch Shramban (193-G-73) plays for Maccabi T-A in Israeli Premier League
Matt Bonner (206-F-80) plays for San Antonio Spurs in the NBA
Cory Joseph (190-PG-91) plays for San Antonio Spurs in the NBA
Samuel Dalembert (211-C-81) plays for Houston Rockets in the NBA
Steve Nash (190-PG-74) plays for Phoenix Suns in the NBA
Kyle Landry (207-C/F-86) plays for Triumph Lyubertsy in Russian PBL
Jamaal Magloire (208-F/C-78) plays for Toronto Raptors in the NBA
Tristan Thompson (203-F-91) plays for Cleveland Cavaliers in the NBA
Derek Christiansen (198-F-72) plays for Gravelines-Dunkerque in French ProA
Jermaine Anderson (188-G-83) plays for Buducnost in Montenegrin 1A
Carl English (192-G-81) plays for Cajasol in Spanish ACB
Andrew Rautins (193-PG-86) plays for Meridiano Alicante in Spanish ACB
John Devereaux (205-C-62) plays for Obras in Argentinian LigaA
Travis Stel (202-F-71) plays for Antwerp Giants in Belgian Ethias League

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

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CENTRAL AFRICA

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

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

Romain Sato

#1. This week's number one is an international swingman Romain Sato (194-81, college: Xavier). He managed to help Panathinaikos Athens in a 2-point victoryagainst the league leader Olympiacos (23-1) 81-79 in a derby game in the Greek A1 in Thursday night's game. Sato scored only 4 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in 22 minutes on the court. 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. This year Sato averages: 6.0ppg, 3.9rpg, 2FGP: 57.5%(50-87), 3FGP: 29.0% and FT: 61.7% in the 32 games he played so far. He is currently a member of the Central African senior national team.

Michael Mokongo

#2. Second place goes to an international point guard Michael Mokongo (180-86), who plays in the French ProA. Mokongo could not help Chorale de Roanne (16-14) to beat Chalon/Saor (23-7). He did not impress in that game on Wednesday. Mokongo recorded only 2 points and added 6 assists. Chorale de Roanne was crushed 91-70 on the road by the second-ranked Chalon/Saor. Mokongo's overall stats this season are: 2.8ppg, 1.6apg, 2FGP: 48.3%, 3FGP: 19.4%. He has a dual citizenship: Central African and French. Mokongo is in the roster of the Central African senior national team.

Max Kouguere

#3. The Central African player who performed third best last week abroad was an international forward Max Kouguere (198-87). He was not able to help Le Mans (19-11) in their game against Sluc Nancy (18-12) in the French ProA. It was not Kouguere's best game last Tuesday. He recorded only 2 points in 17 minutes. Le Mans was crushed 89-64 at home by the lower-ranked (#5) Sluc Nancy. This year Kouguere's overall stats are: 3.7ppg, 1.4rpg, 2FGP: 69.0%(20-29), 3FGP: 31.8% and FT: 57.1% in the 30 games. He is another player who holds two passports: Congolese and Central African. Kouguere is also a member of the Central African senior national team.

Lionel Bomayako

#4. An experienced guard Lionel Bomayako (196-78, college: Fair Dickinson) was not able to secure a victory for Orchesien BC (25-9) in their game against Charleville-Mezieres (24-10) in the French NM1 (third division). He recorded 9 points. But Orchesien BC was edged 68-67 on the opponent's court by the lower-ranked Charleville-Mezieres (#4). They ended the series of six consecutive victories. Bomayako's total stats this season are: 7.4ppg and 1.3rpg. He has both Central African and French nationalities. Despite Bomayako played previously for the French national team, he is currently in the Central African national team roster.

James Mays

#5. International forward James Mays (206-86, college: Clemson) couldn't help Capitanes (6-4) in their game against Atleticos (7-3) in the Puerto Rican BSN. Mays did not have that impressive stats last Thursday. He scored only 1 points in 8 minutes on the court. The third-placed Capitanes lost 62-76 in San German to the leading Atleticos in the Top 6 group. This year Mays' total stats are: 2.2ppg and 3.2rpg in the five games. He is a naturalized American. Mays plays currently for the Central African national team. Strangely he has never played in Central Africa.

Other top Central African players, who play abroad:

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

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

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CHILE

Chile lose three in Venezuela - by Eurobasket News

Chilean National Team travelled to Chile to take part at the Super 4 tournament. Chile faced Uruguay, Colombia and hosting Venezuela at the Forum de Valencia, Venezuela. Chile lost all three games at the tourney.
Chile opened their campaign against Venezuela. The hosts claimed a comfortable 75:53 win. The hosts built a 43:21 halftime lead and never looked back en route to the victory. Eduardo Sepulveda (186-G-86) knocked down 14 points to lead the Chilean team. Sebastian Suarez (189-F-91) added 11 points, while Franco Morales (179-G-92) had 7 in the loss.
Next two games did not bring too much relief for the Chilean team. They took on Uruguay next and had to surrender 52:58.
Finally Chile played against Colombia. Chile came up with arguably their best performance at the tournament but still had to surrender 75:82.
The teams are preparing for the South American Championship. The tournament will be held in June in Argentina. Chile will play in Group A alongside Argentina, Colombia and Venezuela.

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CHINA

Standings - NBL

NBL Standings

1. Jiangsu		7-2
2. Guangzhou L.		7-2
3. Guangzhou FM		6-3
4. Changan Group		6-3
5. Hebei		6-3
6. Hong Kong		4-5
7. Sichuan		3-6
8. Heilongjiang		3-6
9. Nanjin Army		2-7
10. Henan Jiyuan		1-8

Regular Season: Round 9

May. 29: Hong Kong - Guangzhou FM 90-96 OT
May. 29: Sichuan - Hebei 82-90
May. 29: Jiangsu - Nanjin Army 111-96
May. 29: Guangzhou L. - Henan Jiyuan 105-85
May. 29: Heilongjiang - Changan Group 101-100

Regular Season: Round 10

Jun. 2: Henan Jiyuan - Nanjin Army
Jun. 2: Jiangsu - Hebei
Jun. 2: Guangzhou FM - Guangzhou L.
Jun. 2: Hong Kong - Changan Group
Jun. 2: Heilongjiang - Sichuan

NBL Round 9 of Regular Season - by Eurobasket News

Hong Kong (#6) forced the game against Guangzhou FM (#4) into an overtime, but lost by six points 90-96 on Tuesday night. The game took place in . But the guests were better at the end. Walter Sharpe stepped up with a double-double by scoring 27 points, 18 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. Hong Kong's coach DeGui Zhang rotated eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. Guangzhou FM have a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to third place, which they share with Hebei and Changan Group. Hong Kong at the other side keeps the sixth position with five games lost. Guangzhou FM will face league's second-placed Guangzhou L. in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Hong Kong will play against Changan Group (#4) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

The most impressive stats of the last round was 42 points (!!!), 20 rebounds and 6 assists by Rashaun Freeman of Heilongjiang.

Heilongjiang - Changan Group 101-100

There was an upset when second-best Changan Group (6-3) was edged on the road by eighth ranked Heilongjiang (3-6) 101-100 on Tuesday. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Changan Group won fourth quarter 32-23. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Heilongjiang made 32-of-40 free shots (80.0 percent) during the game. Heilongjiang outrebounded Changan Group 38-27 including a 28-15 advantage in defensive rebounds. Changan Group was plagued by 32 personal fouls down the stretch. American power forward Rashaun Freeman (206-84, college: Massachusetts) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 42 points (!!!), 20 rebounds and 6 assists for the winners and point guard Ming Jin (185-90) chipped in 17 points and 5 rebounds. The best for the losing side was guard Yan Gao (190-93) with 23 points and 4 assists (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) and American forward Joseph Taylor (203-85, college: Wyoming) scored 20 points and 6 rebounds. Four Changan Group players scored in double figures. Changan Group's coach MingZhu Pu tried various players' combinations and tested in total eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. Heilongjiang moved-up to seventh place, which they share with Sichuan. Changan Group at the other side dropped to the third position with three games lost. Heilongjiang will face Sichuan (#7) in the next round. Changan Group will play against Hong Kong (#6).
Top scorers:
Heilongjiang: F.Rashaun 42+20reb+6ast, L.Xu 18+2ast, J.Ming 17+5reb+2ast, H.Mengxin 8+2reb+1ast, Y.Gang 7+2reb, L.JinYang 5+5reb+3ast
Changan Group: G.Yan 23+3reb+4ast, T.Joseph 20+6reb+3ast, S.Jian 19+1reb, Y.BoWen 14+4reb+4ast, J.JunQi 8+3reb, J.Cheng 7+4reb

Sichuan - Hebei 82-90

Rather predictable result when fifth ranked Hebei (6-3) defeated on the road 7th ranked Sichuan (3-6) 90-82 on Tuesday. The guests were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. Hebei forced 24 Sichuan turnovers and outrebounded them 51-34 including a 29-8 advantage in offensive rebounds. Sichuan was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. American forward Bryan Davis (206-86, college: Texas A&M, agency: N.E.T.) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 35 points (!!!), 27 rebounds and 4 blocks for the winners and guard ZhiTong Yin (195-86) chipped in 15 points and 5 steals. The best for the losing side was American power forward Jarrid Famous (210-88, college: S.Florida) with a double-double by scoring 15 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists and center XiaoDong Chen (207-86) scored 15 points and 8 rebounds. Sichuan's coach Li Guangqi rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Hebei moved-up to third place, which they share with Changan Group and Guangzhou FM. Sichuan at the other side keeps the seventh position with six games lost. Hebei will face league's leader Jiangsu in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Sichuan will play against Heilongjiang (#8) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Hebei: D.Bryan 35+27reb, Y.ZhiTong 15+4reb+2ast, L.YiDing 12+5reb, W.Tong 9+2reb+2ast, Z.ZhenHu 9+6reb+3ast, S.ChunLei 8+4reb+1ast
Sichuan: C.XiaoDong 15+8reb, F.Jarrid 15+10reb+5ast, C.Ma 12+6reb+3ast, L.Xin 10+1reb+1ast, W.YingLiang 9+1reb+2ast, D.ChengLong 9+1reb+3ast

Hong Kong - Guangzhou FM 90-96 OT

Hong Kong (#6) forced the game against Guangzhou FM (#4) into an overtime, but lost by six points 90-96 on Tuesday night. The game took place in . But the guests were better at the end. The guests trailed by 10 points after first quarter, but they rallied back and won the game in overtime by 6 points. Guangzhou FM forced 22 Hong Kong turnovers. American forward Walter Sharpe (206-86, college: UAB, agency: Two Points) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 27 points, 18 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners and forward JunJiang Dong (200-80) chipped in 23 points. Four Guangzhou FM players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was American center DeVon Hardin (211-86) with a double-double by scoring 28 points and 16 rebounds and guard Zhou Feng (180-81) scored 14 points. Hong Kong's coach DeGui Zhang rotated eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. Guangzhou FM have a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to third place, which they share with Hebei and Changan Group. Hong Kong at the other side keeps the sixth position with five games lost. Guangzhou FM will face league's second-placed Guangzhou L. in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Hong Kong will play against Changan Group (#4) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Guangzhou FM: S.Walter 27+18reb+4ast, D.JunJiang 23+2reb+1ast, Y.Peng 18+6reb+1ast, L.DaPeng 14+2reb, Y.KaiFu 7+5reb+4ast, L.XueSong 4+1ast
Hong Kong: H.DeVon 28+16reb+2ast, F.Zhou 14+3reb+3ast, Y.XiaoHang 13+5reb, J.KaiYi 10+1reb, Z.DongYang 8+4reb+4ast, L.MingHao 5+4reb+7ast

Jiangsu - Nanjin Army 111-96

Not a big story in a game when 9th ranked Nanjin Army (2-7) was defeated on the road by first ranked Jiangsu (7-2) 111-96 on Tuesday. The game was mostly controlled by Jiangsu. Nanjin Army was better in third quarter 35-23. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Jiangsu forced 27 Nanjin Army turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 26 assists. U.S. Virgin Islands-Antiguan guard Julius Hodge (201-83, college: N.Carolina St.) stepped up with a triple-double by scoring 19 points, 18 rebounds, 16 assists and 5 blocks for the winners and point guard Xin Feng (187-92) chipped in 29 points and 4 assists. The best for the losing side was forward Shengyue Sun (198-89) with 18 points and 6 rebounds and point guard CaiBao Zhang (185-90) scored 12 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals. Five Jiangsu and four Nanjin Army players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Jiangsu maintains first place with 7-2 record, which they share with Guangzhou L. Loser Nanjin Army keeps the ninth position with seven games lost. Jiangsu will face Hebei (#5) in the next round. Nanjin Army will play against Henan Jiyuan (#10) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Jiangsu: F.Xin 29+3reb+4ast, H.Julius 19+18reb+16ast, Z.HongWei 17+4reb+1ast, M.Zhuang 16+2reb+1ast, F.Hui 11+2reb+2ast, G.MingYang 8+6reb
Nanjin Army: S.Shengyue 18+6reb+2ast, D.QinShuo 14+5reb+1ast, Z.CaiBao 12+5reb+5ast, T.JiaFu 11, W.ShouWei 10+9reb+1ast, L.Dong 10+2reb+2ast

Guangzhou L. - Henan Jiyuan 105-85

Everything went according to plan when third ranked Guangzhou L. (7-2) outscored at home bottom-ranked Henan Jiyuan (1-8) 105-85 on Tuesday. The game without a history. Guangzhou L. led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 64 of its points in the paint compared to Henan Jiyuan's 40. Guangzhou L. forced 26 Henan Jiyuan turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. Henan Jiyuan was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. Forward DaWei Chen (203-85) stepped up and scored 18 points and 5 rebounds for the winners and Senegalese center Hamady N'Diaye (213-87, college: Rutgers) chipped in 15 points, 9 rebounds and 5 blocks (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field). Four Guangzhou L. players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was Nigerian center Kenny Adeleke (205-83, college: Hartford) with a double-double by scoring 19 points and 15 rebounds and center ZhenXin Liu (205-94) scored 7 points and 10 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Guangzhou L. have a solid series of four victories in a row. They keep a position of league leader, which they share with Jiangsu. Henan Jiyuan lost seventh consecutive game. They stay at the bottom place with eight games lost. Guangzhou L. will face Guangzhou FM (#3) in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Henan Jiyuan will play against Nanjin Army (#9) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Guangzhou L.: C.DaWei 18+5reb+2ast, W.Jing 17+4reb+1ast, N.Hamady 15+9reb+1ast, L.XiangTao 15+4reb, J.Lei 10+3reb+2ast, H.DangJian 10+3reb+1ast
Henan Jiyuan: A.Kenny 19+15reb+1ast, G.Wei 10+3reb+1ast, L.Chao 10+4reb+1ast, L.Shuai 8+3reb+5ast, L.XiaoHu 8+4reb, H.Xin 8+2reb+2ast

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COLOMBIA

CROATIA

Stats Leaders - A1

Points Per Game

Ivan MIMICA
  KK Split
  (193-G-80)
  Avg: 18.8

1. Mimica, KK Split	18.8
2. Ceskovic, Kvarner	18.0
3. Ross, Jolly	17.9
4. Markota, KK.	17.6
5. Stimac, Svjetlost	16.7
6. Bilan, Cedevita	16.3
7. Simovic, Kvarner	15.3
8. Sobin, KK Split	15.3
9. Kruslin, Zabok	15.1
10. Vrbanc, Zadar	14.5

Rebounds Per Game

Damir MARKOTA
  KK.
  (210-C/F-85)
  Avg: 7.5

1. Markota, KK.	7.5
2. Ivanov, Zadar	7.5
3. Sobin, KK Split	7.1
4. Stimac, Svjetlost	7.0
5. Cinac, Kvarner 2010	6.8
6. Simovic, Kvarner	6.8
7. Peraica, Darda	6.6
8. Suton, Cibona	6.6
9. Bilan, Cedevita	6.5
10. Zupic, Alkar Sinj	6.4

Assists Per Game

Josip GLAVINIC
  Krizevci
  (192-G-82)
  Avg: 5.1

1. Glavinic, Krizevci	5.1
2. Ross, Jolly	4.4
3. Subotic, KK Split	4.2
4. Blajic, Kvarner	4.2
5. Vujcic, KK Split	4.2
6. Kostomaj, Svjet.	3.7
7. Wright, Cibona	3.6
8. Draper, Cedevita	3.1
9. Bazdaric, Cedevita	3.1
10. Tomas, Zabok	3.1

Steals Per Game

Ronald ROSS
  Jolly
  (188-G-83)
  Avg: 2.9

1. Ross, Jolly	2.9
2. Draper, Cedevita	2.5
3. Wright, Cibona	2.1
4. Bicvic, Darda	1.9
5. Rozic, Cibona	1.9
6. Blajic, Kvarner	1.8
7. Kostomaj, Svjet.	1.7
8. Stimac, Svjetlost	1.5
9. Sobin, KK Split	1.5
10. Sarlija, Borik	1.5

Blocks Per Game

Filip KRALJEVIC
  Zabok
  (214-F-89)
  Avg: 1.7

1. Kraljevic, Zabok	1.7
2. Sarlija, Borik	1.2
3. Zupic, Alkar Sinj	1.1
4. Bubalo, Zabok	1.1
5. Buva, Krizevci	0.8
6. Vujcic, KK Split	0.8
7. Owens, Cedevita	0.8
8. Bilan, Cedevita	0.7
9. Sobin, KK Split	0.7
10. Vukovic, KK Split	0.7

Cibona is one win away from the title - by Eurobasket News

Finals, Game 2: Cedevita - Cibona 64-82 (0-2, best-of-three)

The game was mostly controlled by Cibona. Cedevita managed to win third quarter 15-14. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. 26 personal fouls committed by Cedevita helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Goran Suton (209-85, college: Michigan St.) orchestrated the victory by scoring 13 points and 7 rebounds. International forward Damjan Rudez (206-86) contributed with 13 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Four Cibona players scored in double figures. Marino Bazdaric (197-78) replied with 11 points and 5 rebounds and forward Vedran Vukusic (206-82, college: Northwestern) added 11 points in the effort for Cedevita. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next game. Third game is scheduled for Saturday and Cibona will be the host.
Top scorers:
Cedevita: V.Vukusic 11+4reb, M.Bazdaric 11+5reb+3ast, M.Car 10+2reb+2ast, M.Bilan 9+3reb, D.Bagaric 5, D.Draper 4+2reb+3ast
Cibona: Z.Wright 14+3reb+2ast, G.Suton 13+7reb+3ast, D.Rudez 13+5reb+3ast, A.Zizic 12+4reb, K.El-Amin 8+2reb+2ast, D.Kus 8+1reb+1ast

Unicaja Malaga agrees with Jasmin Repesa - by Eurobasket News

According to Spanish media (Diariosur), Jasmin Repesa (agency: World Sport Agency) will be the new Head Coach of Unicaja Malaga. Reportedly, Repesa accepted the proposal and he will be officially announced after the Croatian league Playoffs. According to the same source, Malaga already negotiates with Jesus Mateo about the contract termination.
Jasmin Repesa is currently the Head Coach of Cibona Zagreb. They have 2-0 lead in Croatian league Finals against Cedevita and need just one more for the title. The first chance to do that Cibona will have on Saturday. Jasmin Repesa (agency: World Sport Agency ) took over the club in December. From January of 2010 until the last summer he worked with Benetton Treviso. Before that, Repesa led Lottomatica Roma and Climamio Bologna. He also has experience from Slask Wroclaw, Split, Tofas Bursa, Croatian and Polish National Teams.

Luksa Andric set to leave Galatasaray - by Eurobasket News

According to sportando.net, Luksa Andric (210-C-85, agency: Beo Basket) set to leave Galatasaray. As reported by his agent Misko Raznatovic, Luksa Andric is a free agent player. The deadine for a contract extension with Galatasaray was yesterday.
Last year Luksa Andric renewed his contract with Galatasaray. Luksa Andric joined Galatasaray at the start of the previous season. He tallied 9.1 points, 3.4 boards and 1.2 steals per game in EuroCup. In TBL his stats read 9.0 points and 3.8 rebounds per appearance. Luksa Andric played for Croatia at 2010 World Championships. The centre provided 7.0 points and 2.8 rebounds per game in Turkey.
In 2011-2012 for Galatasaray Medical Park Istanbul (Turkey-TBL) he averaged 11.1ppg, 4.2rpg, FGP: 59.4%, FT: 59.7% in Euroleague. In Turkish League his stats read 8.0 points per game.

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

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

Luksa Andric

#1. This week's number one is an international center Luksa Andric (210-85, agency: Beo Basket), who plays in the Turkish TBL. He could not help Galatasaray (25-5) in their last game. Despite Andric's good performance the league leader Galatasaray lost 73-84 in a derby game to the lower-ranked (#4) Besiktas. He recorded 12 points in only a mere 14 minutes on the court. This year Andric averages: 8.0ppg, 3.7rpg, 2FGP: 61.1%(116-190) and FT: 68.8% in the 36 games he played so far. He is currently a member of the Croatian senior national team.

Rok Stipcevic

#2. Second place goes to an international point guard Rok Stipcevic (185-86). Stipcevic led Cimberio Varese to a surprising victory over the league leader Montepaschi Siena (24-8) 73-70 in the Italian SerieA last Monday. He was MVP of the game. Stipcevic scored 19 points, had 4 boards, passed 3 assists and added 3 steals. Cimberio Varese (17-15) is placed eighth in the SerieA. Stipcevic has relatively good stats this season: 11.4ppg, 2.6rpg, 3.3apg, 1.2spg, 2FGP: 57.1%(72-126), 3FGP: 36.4% and FT: 86.4%. He is in the roster of the Croatian senior national team.

Bruno Sundov

#3. The Croatian player who performed third best last week abroad was former U21 international center Bruno Sundov (221-80, agency: Alti Sport). Sundov led Lukoil Academik to a victory against the closely-ranked Levski Sofia (23-5) 87-80 in a derby game in the Bulgarian NBL on Tuesday night. He recorded 14 points and blocked 2 blocks in 30 minutes. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. Lukoil Academik Sofia (25-3) is placed first in the NBL. This year Sundov has relatively solid stats: 12.6ppg, 5.9rpg, 3FGP: 40.2% and FT: 81.3% in the 36 games. He played for the Croatian U21 national team twelve years ago.

Ante Tomic

#4. Center Ante Tomic (217-87) was not able to help Real Madrid (26-8) in their game against Caja Laboral (23-11) in the Spanish ACB. Tomic scored 8 points and grabbed 5 rebounds. Real Madrid was edged in an overtime 82-79 on the road by the lower-ranked Caja Laboral (#3). Tomic's overall stats this season are: 8.0ppg and 4.5rpg. He is also Croatian national team player.

Jure Lalic

#5. Former U20 international center Jure Lalic (212-86) contributed to Krka's victory against the second-ranked Union Olimpija (7-3) 67-55 in the Slovenian Telemach League last Thursday. Lalic recorded 11 points and grabbed 7 rebounds in 25 minutes. It was the game of the round between two top 3 ranked teams in Group Championship. Krka Novo Mesto (8-2) is placed first in Championship Group. It was his team's sixth consecutive victory in a row. It's Lalic's first season with the team. This year his overall stats are: 8.4ppg and 4.4rpg in the 16 games. Lalic used to play for the Croatian U20 national team six years ago.

Nikola Radulovic

#6. An experienced forward Nikola Radulovic (207-73) was not able to secure a victory for Givova Scafati (17-11) in their game against Tuscany Pistoia (18-10) in the Italian Lega2 (second division). He scored 8 points and blocked 4 shots. Givova Scafati was defeated 69-58 in Pistoia by the second-ranked Tuscany. Radulovic is ranked fourth on the list of the best blockers in the league. He has very reliable stats this season: 10.8ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.7apg and 2.4spg. Despite Radulovic played previously for the Italian national team, he is also a former international player as he played for the Croatian senior team six years ago.

Nikica Sljuka

#7. Former international guard Nikica Sljuka (187-87) couldn't help Olimpi (16-4) in their game against Armia (20-0) in the Georgian Superleague. Sljuka scored 5 points in 19 minutes. Olimpi was crushed 87-52 in a derby game by the leading Armia. They ended the series of five consecutive victories. This year Sljuka's total stats are: 7.7ppg, 1.9rpg and 1.2apg in the 17 games. He used to play for the Croatian national team eight years ago.

Marcus Norris

#8. Guard Marcus Norris (185-74, agency: SportsTalent, college: Ball St.) managed to help Sport Lisboa Benfica to win against the league leader FC Porto Ferpinta (20-2) 56-53 in the Portuguese LPB last Wednesday. Norris scored only 2 points and had 3 steals. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. Sport Lisboa Benfica (19-3) is placed second in the LPB. It was his team's third consecutive victory in a row. Norris has averaged so far 7.4ppg, 3.2rpg, 3.2apg and 1.5spg. He is a naturalized American. Norris used to play for the Croatian national team back in 2004. Strangely he has never played in Croatia.

Other top Croatian players, who play abroad:

Zoran Planinic (199-G-82) plays for Khimky in Russian PBL
Kresimir Loncar (210-F-83) plays for Khimky in Russian PBL
Marko Popovic (185-G-82) plays for Zalgiris in Lithuanian LKL
Mario Delas (207-F/C-90) plays for Zalgiris in Lithuanian LKL
Stanko Barac (217-C-86) plays for Anadolu Efes in Turkish TBL
Dusan Bogdanovic (212-C-93) plays for Partizan in Serbian A League
Leon Radosevic (206-C-90) plays for Armani Milano in Italian SerieA
Roko-Leni Ukic (196-G-84) plays for Fenerbahce Ulker in Turkish TBL
Marko Tomas (201-G-85) plays for Fenerbahce Ulker in Turkish TBL
Bojan Bogdanovic (203-G/F-89) plays for Fenerbahce Ulker in Turkish TBL
Marko Banic (205-F-84) plays for Gescrap BB in Spanish ACB
Drazen Petrovic (196-G-64) plays for New Jersey Nets in the NBA

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

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CYPRUS

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

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

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CZECH REPUBLIC

Stats Leaders - NBL

Points Per Game

Peter SEDMAK
  USK Praha
  (207-C-85)
  Avg: 19.7

1. Sedmak, USK Praha	19.7
2. Pope, Chomutov	19.6
3. McFadden, Usti n.	18.2
4. Grant, Levice	17.9
5. Lowery, Chomutov	17.6
6. Hruban, USK Praha	16.7
7. Houska, BK Decin	15.0
8. Arnold, BK Pardu.	14.9
9. Meno, Svitavy	14.8
10. Smith, BK Prost.	14.8

Rebounds Per Game

Stanislav VOTROUBEK
  USK P.
  (212-C-81)
  Avg: 8.8

1. Votroubek, USK P.	8.8
2. Pesic, Inter B.	8.6
3. Meno, Svitavy	8.4
4. Gadri-N., BK Prost.	8.0
5. Gottselig, Usti n.	8.0
6. Arnold, BK Pardu.	7.9
7. Naymick, CEZ N.	7.6
8. Modric, Levice	7.2
9. Peterson, BK Prost.	7.0
10. Houska, BK Decin	6.9

Assists Per Game

Emanuel UBILLA
  Inter B.
  (188-G-86)
  Avg: 5.3

1. Ubilla, Inter B.	5.3
2. Deloach, Svitavy	5.1
3. Sotnar, USK Praha	4.7
4. Wright, Chomutov	4.6
5. Wright, NH Ostrava	4.6
6. Vrubl, Plzen	4.4
7. Sirina, B&W Opava	4.1
8. McFadden, Usti n.	4.1
9. Lawrence, CEZ N.	4.1
10. Pope, Chomutov	3.9

Steals Per Game

Rashaan AMES
  BC Kolin
  (184-PG-78)
  Avg: 2.6

1. Ames, BC Kolin	2.6
2. Ubilla, Inter B.	2.5
3. Wright, Chomutov	2.4
4. McFadden, Usti n.	2.3
5. Wright, NH Ostrava	2.1
6. Klecka, B&W Opava	1.9
7. Lowery, Chomutov	1.9
8. Sirina, B&W Opava	1.8
9. Simmons, CEZ N.	1.7
10. Pumprla, CEZ N.	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Andrew NAYMICK
  CEZ N.
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 1.7

1. Naymick, CEZ N.	1.7
2. Hughes, NH Ostrava	1.3
3. Miklosik, B&W O.	1.3
4. Gadri-N., BK Prost.	1.2
5. Williams, BK Decin	1.0
6. Grant, Levice	0.9
7. Arnold, BK Pardu.	0.9
8. Reese, Usti n.	0.9
9. Houska, BK Decin	0.8
10. Meno, Svitavy	0.8

Eurobasket.com All-Czech Rep. League Awards 2011-12 - by Eurobasket

Eurobasket.com All-Czech Rep. League 1st Team 2012

McFadden

Wright

Wilson

Arnold

Sedmak

Player of the Year: Thaddeus McFadden (188-G-87) of Usti n/Labem
Guard of the Year: Thaddeus McFadden (188-G-87) of Usti n/Labem
Forward of the Year: Lamayne Wilson (204-F-80) of CEZ Nymburk
Center of the Year: Peter Sedmak (207-C-85) of USK Praha
Import Player of the Year: Thaddeus McFadden (188-G-87) of Usti n/Labem
Bosman Player of the Year: Mihajlo Pesic (206-F/C-81) of Inter Bratislava
Domestic Player of the Year: Peter Sedmak (207-C-85) of USK Praha
Defensive Player of the Year: Pavel Pumprla (200-F-86) of CEZ Nymburk
Coach of the Year: Zbynek Choleva of BK Prostejov

1st Team
G: Thaddeus McFadden (188-87) of Usti n/Labem
G: Derek Wright (175-86) of NH Ostrava
F: Lamayne Wilson (204-80) of CEZ Nymburk
C/F: Marcus Arnold (207-84) of BK Pardubice
C: Peter Sedmak (207-85) of USK Praha

2nd Team
G: Keaton Grant (193-86) of Levice
G: Jamar Smith (191-SG-87) of BK Prostejov
F/C: Mihajlo Pesic (206-81) of Inter Bratislava
F/C: Pavel Houska (204-84) of BK Decin
F/C: Petr Benda (203-82) of CEZ Nymburk

Honorable Mention
James Hughes (211-C-83) of NH Ostrava
Rob Lowery (188-G-87) of Chomutov
Patrick Pope (183-G-81) of Chomutov
David Machac (204-F-80) of BC Kolin
Levell Sanders (189-G-75) of BK Decin
Maurice Hampton (188-SG-84) of BK Pardubice
Stanislav Votroubek (212-C-81) of USK Praha
Ladislav Toth (196-F-83) of Plzen

All-Domestic Players Team
G: Jakub Sirina (185-87) of B&W Opava
F: Pavel Pumprla (200-86) of CEZ Nymburk
F: Vojtech Hruban (202-89) of USK Praha
F/C: Pavel Houska (204-84) of BK Decin
C: Peter Sedmak (207-85) of USK Praha

All-Imports Players Team
PG: Thaddeus McFadden (188-G-87) of Usti n/Labem
PG: Derek Wright (175-G-86) of Chomutov
G: Keaton Grant (193-G-86) of Levice
F: Lamayne Wilson (204-F-80) of CEZ Nymburk
F/C: Marcus Arnold (207-84) of BK Pardubice

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EL SALVADOR

Standings - Liga Superior

LEBES Standings

1. Leones		9-2
2. UTEC		9-2
3. Denver		7-3
4. San Marcos		7-4
5. ExSAL		5-5
6. Delgadense		3-7
7. Roll Royce		2-8
8. Chaleco		0-11

Last games scores - by Jaime Arevalo

On last Saturday, Leones-Automoto defeated 71-59 Chaleco thanks to 36 pts scored by Arturo Escamilla (185-F-77), who was the game top scorer. Roberto Figueroa (191-F) added 15 at the winning side, Mario Flamenco with 19 and Rene Palma with 18 were the best in Chaleco.
In the top game of the night, San Marcos defeated UTEC 91-76 in an unexpected, clear way. Edwin Lopez (183-G/F-85) led the San Marcos attack with 29 points, followed by Jose Antonio Orellana (189-F-87) with 23 and Oscar Rivera (190-F-80) with 20.
UTEC is suffering again the absence of starting center Julio Mancia (202-C-80), due to a shoulder injury. Manuel Artiga (196-F/C-83) was the best with 17 pts and 14 rebs, Erles Gomez (170-PG-84) added 15 pts in losing effort.

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ESTONIA

Andre Parn extends with Rapla - by Eurobasket News

Rapla will keep one of the teams most experienced player. They agreed on terms of contract extension with Andre Parn (200-F-77). The 34-year-old forward will enter his second season with Rapla. Last season he tallied 9.5 points, 6.0 rebounds and 2.0 assists per game in Baltic League. In KML Andre Parn notched 10.5 points, 5.2 rebounds and 1.6 assists per appearance. Previously the forward played for TTU/Kalev, Kalev Tallinn, TTP/Pirita, Plannja Basket. He was the member of Estonian National Team in 1995/2005 seasons. He also played for Estonian University National Team. Andre Parn was Estonian League All-Star Game MVP in 2002. Eurobasket.com named him All-Estonian League Forward of the Year in 2003.

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

All-Estonian League 1st Team 2012

Cipruss

Sokk

Soo

Arbet

Amis

Player of the Year: Kaspars Cipruss (210-C-82) of Tarvas
Guard of the Year: Tanel Sokk (184-G-85) of Kalev/Cramo
Forward of the Year: Gregor Arbet (194-F/G-83) of Kalev/Cramo
Center of the Year: Kaspars Cipruss (210-C-82) of Tarvas
U20 Player of the Year: Rait-Riivo Laane (179-PG-93) of Rapla
Most Improved Player of the Year: Martin Dorbek (193-G-91) of Tarvas
Bosman Player of the Year: Kaspars Cipruss (210-C-82) of Tarvas
Import Player of the Year: Bamba Fall (216-C-86) of Kalev/Cramo
Domestic Player of the Year: Tanel Sokk (184-G-85) of Kalev/Cramo
Defensive Player of the Year: Bamba Fall (216-C-86) of Kalev/Cramo
Coach of the Year: Aivar Kuusmaa of Kalev/Cramo

1st Team
G: Tanel Sokk (184-85) of Kalev/Cramo
G/F: Janar Soo (199-91) of Rapla
F/G: Gregor Arbet (194-83) of Kalev/Cramo
F: Bill Amis (205-87) of Tartu Ulikool
C: Kaspars Cipruss (210-82) of Tarvas

2nd Team
G: Sten-Timmu Sokk (181-89) of Tartu Ulikool
G: Brandis Raley-Ross (188-87) of Tln Kalev
F: Illimar Pilk (195-88) of TTU
C: Reinar Hallik (208-84) of Tarvas
C: Bamba Fall (216-86) of Kalev/Cramo

Honorable Mention
Gert Dorbek (194-G-85) of Kalev/Cramo
Rait-Riivo Laane (179-PG-93) of Rapla
Rinalds Sirsnins (186-PG-85) of Tarvas
Toomas Raadik (202-C-90) of Parnu
Rannar Raap (189-G/F-92) of Parnu
Tanel Kurbas (197-F-88) of Tartu Ulikool
Vallo Allingu (206-C-78) of Tartu Ulikool
Reinis Strupovics (192-G-87) of Valga

All-Domestic Players Team
G: Tanel Sokk (184-85) of Kalev/Cramo
G/F: Janar Soo (199-91) of Rapla
F/G: Gregor Arbet (194-83) of Kalev/Cramo
C: Reinar Hallik (208-84) of Tarvas
C: Vallo Allingu (206-78) of Tartu Ulikool

All-Imports Team
PG: Rinalds Sirsnins (186-85) of Tarvas
G: Brandis Raley-Ross (188-87) of Tln Kalev
F: Bill Amis (205-87) of Tartu Ulikool
C: Bamba Fall (216-86) of Kalev/Cramo
C: Kaspars Cipruss (210-82) of Tarvas

All-Defensive Team
Martin Dorbek (193-G-91) of Tarvas
Silver Leppik (188-G-83) of Tartu Ulikool
Gregor Arbet (194-F/G-83) of Kalev/Cramo
Toomas Raadik (202-C-90) of Parnu
Bamba Fall (216-C-86) of Kalev/Cramo

All-U20 Team
Rait-Riivo Laane (179-PG-93) of Rapla
Rannar Raap (189-G/F-92) of Parnu
Oliver Metsalu (194-G-93) of Tarvas
Jaan Puidet (192-G/F-92) of TTU
Martin Jurtom (198-F-94) of Rapla

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

EUROCUP

Khimki Moscow Lands Sharpshooting Swingman K.C. Rivers - by David Pick

Reported by Sportando.net and confirmed by K.C. Rivers via Twitter, Russian basketball empire and 2nd seeded Khimki Moscow, added the sharpshooting American swingman to their roster.

Joined by Paul Davis and James Augustine, the 6-foot-5 Clemson alumnus, who played in Italy, France and last year in Russia with Lokomotiv Kuban, agreed to a two-year deal with Khimki.

Rivers averaged 9.5 points, 4.1 rebounds and 1.3 assists per game during the EuroCup challenge while shooting over 45.2% from beyond the arc.

In the VTB League, Rivers recorded numbers of 11.2 points, 4.3 boards and 1 dime per game, but upped his number to 11.4 points per game on 51.3% field goal shooting while playing in the domestic competition.

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

EUROLEAGUE

Khimky officially signs 2-year deal with James Augustine - by Eurobasket News

James Augustine (208-F-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Illinois) officially became a new member of Khimky Moscow Region. The player signed a 2-year deal and joined Paul Davis (211-C-84, college: Michigan St.). Augustine spent last season with UCAM Murcia. He appeared 34 times in Liga Endesa averaging 12.7 points and 8.3 rebounds. Before Murcia, the 28-year-old American played for Valencia. There he had 4.2 ppg and 4.2 rpg for 17 games in Spain. In Euroleague, Augustine registered 3.4 ppg and 2.4 rpg. From 2008 to 2010, James Augustine was a member of Gran Canaria. He also has NBA experience from the Orlando Magic, where he played in 2007/08. For 25 games with them Augistine averaged 1.6 points and 1.2 rebounds. In 2006/07, the player got a chance just two times with Orlando. James Augustine graduated at the University of Illinois six year ago.

Hines: No better feeling! - by Kostas Papadopoulos

Kyle Hines (198-F-86), being crazy after winning the Euroleague title with Olympiakos, expressed his feelings in the blog he keeps at the official site of the competition. The more interesting of his statements are:

- I am the forward/center of the 2012 Euroleague champions, Olympiacos. Yes, you read that right! We did what many deemed unthinkable and impossible at the beginning of the season. We travelled to Istanbul, as the underdogs of the Final Four and left as THE CHAMPIONS!!!!!!!!!
- This season has been truly an amazing journey. At the beginning of the season Olympiacos was far from being considered a favourite to win the Euroleague title. We were called too young and inexperienced. They said we lacked the star power and big-name players to be considered serious contenders, that if we reached the Top 16, it should be considered a big success. We used this as motivation throughout the Euroleague season to continue to defy the naysayers and advance to where nobody thought it was possible for us to go.
- Everybody I have talked to has said that they thought the finals game against CSKA was one of the best games that they have ever seen - and not only in basketball! We were able to somehow come back from 19 points down and get the win. That game basically shows what has made our team special through the entire season. Our team's character and resilience has been the key to our success this year.
- It still hasn't quite sunk in that we are the Euroleague champions. It has always been a goal of mine - as I'm sure it is for many other players in Europe - to win the Euroleague. I just didn't necessary think it would happen so early in my career. Two years ago, I was playing in the second division of Italy, and now I'm a part of the best team in all of Europe... Wow, I still can't believe it!
- I'm really happy that I had the opportunity to accomplish this goal with the guys on our team. I think one of the major reasons why we have been able to be so successful is because of the chemistry and relationships that we have been able to build with each other throughout the season. I can honestly say, I've never been on a team like this, where all 16 players, coaches and staff all enjoy being with each other both on and off the court. Even without winning the Euroleague championship, this has been the most enjoyable season I've had in my basketball life.
- The Olympiacos fans have been amazing the entire season. When we returned to the airport, there was thousands and thousands of fans waiting to celebrate with us. They then followed us all the way back to our arena to celebrate even more, shutting down all the highways on the way. I was surprised at how many people were there celebrating. I've never seen anything like it before. That ride home from the airport is something that I will never forget. Even in Istanbul, our fans were amazing; it felt like we were playing a home game. The Olympiacos fans deserved this championship; it had been 15 years since they were last able to celebrate a title. I'm happy that we were the team that was able to bring the championship celebration back to Piraeus.
- Many thanks to all the Turkish Airlines Euroleague fans around the world for the continue support to my teammates and me. We proved this season that it isn't important to have the biggest budget or the biggest stars in order to win. If you have a strong team desire and the will to fight and believe, then anything is possible. No longer can they call us too young, inexperienced or underdogs. All they can call us now is. CHAMPIONS!!!!!!

Courtesy of Euroleague.net

Khimki Moscow Lands Sharpshooting Swingman K.C. Rivers - by David Pick

Reported by Sportando.net and confirmed by K.C. Rivers via Twitter, Russian basketball empire and 2nd seeded Khimki Moscow, added the sharpshooting American swingman to their roster.

Joined by Paul Davis and James Augustine, the 6-foot-5 Clemson alumnus, who played in Italy, France and last year in Russia with Lokomotiv Kuban, agreed to a two-year deal with Khimki.

Rivers averaged 9.5 points, 4.1 rebounds and 1.3 assists per game during the EuroCup challenge while shooting over 45.2% from beyond the arc.

In the VTB League, Rivers recorded numbers of 11.2 points, 4.3 boards and 1 dime per game, but upped his number to 11.4 points per game on 51.3% field goal shooting while playing in the domestic competition.

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FRANCE

Stats Leaders - ProA

Points Per Game

Eric CHATFIELD
  Paris-.
  (191-G-79)
  Avg: 19.6

1. Chatfield, Paris-.	19.6
2. Hughes, Hyeres-T.	17.2
3. Gipson, Pau-Lacq.	17.1
4. Hamilton, Paris-.	17.0
5. Schilb, Chalon	16.8
6. Rochestie, Le Mans	16.7
7. Williams, Paris-.	16.5
8. Causeur, Cholet	16.0
9. Cox, Le Havre	15.8
10. Delaney, Chalon	15.2

Rebounds Per Game

Chinemelu ELONU
  Pau-Lacq.
  (206-F/C-87)
  Avg: 8.3

1. Elonu, Pau-Lacq.	8.3
2. Hamilton, Paris-.	8.2
3. Akingbala, Nancy	7.8
4. Armstrong, AS.	7.2
5. Greer, Strasbourg	7.0
6. Aminu, Chalon	6.9
7. Vebobe, Cholet	6.9
8. Nsonwu-Amadi, Roa.	6.8
9. Moerman, Nancy	6.6
10. Falker, Cholet	6.5

Assists Per Game

Kareem REID
  Hyeres-Toulon
  (178-PG-75)
  Avg: 7.6

1. Reid, Hyeres-Toulon	7.6
2. Rochestie, Le Mans	6.5
3. Wise, Le Havre	5.6
4. Linehan, Nancy	5.2
5. Pellin, Orleans	5.2
6. Dixon, Dijon	5.1
7. Barrett, Roanne	4.9
8. Schilb, Chalon	4.7
9. Gipson, Pau-Lacq.	4.5
10. Tchicamboud, Cha.	4.5

Steals Per Game

Andrew ALBICY
  Gravelines
  (178-PG-90)
  Avg: 2.4

1. Albicy, Gravelines	2.4
2. Dobbins, Poitiers	2.3
3. Riley, Nanterre	2.1
4. Linehan, Nancy	2.1
5. Wise, Le Havre	2.0
6. Pellin, Orleans	1.9
7. Shuler, Nancy	1.8
8. Acker, Le Mans	1.7
9. Melody, Dijon	1.7
10. Greer, Strasbourg	1.6

Blocks Per Game

Alexis AJINCA
  Strasbourg
  (215-C-88)
  Avg: 2

1. Ajinca, Strasbourg	2.0
2. Falker, Cholet	1.4
3. Gobert, Cholet	1.3
4. Hamilton, Paris-.	1.2
5. Akingbala, Nancy	1.1
6. Elonu, Pau-Lacq.	1.1
7. Akpomedah, Grave.	1.0
8. Issa, Gravelines	0.9
9. Armstrong, AS.	0.9
10. Jean-B., Chalon	0.8

Stats Leaders - ProB

Points Per Game

Jason SIGGERS
  Rouen
  (189-SG-85)
  Avg: 18.5

1. Siggers, Rouen	18.5
2. Davis, Le Portel	17.0
3. Brown, Maurienne	16.8
4. Wood, Evreux	16.5
5. Paelay, Quimper	15.8
6. Monroe, Boulazac	15.7
7. McCray, Boulogne	15.4
8. Mels, Chalons-Reims	15.3
9. Prowell, St Vallier	15.1
10. Denave, St Vallier	14.9

Rebounds Per Game

Christophe MASSIE
  Limoges
  (206-C/F-77)
  Avg: 11.1

1. Massie, Limoges	11.1
2. Wood, Evreux	10.8
3. Monroe, Boulazac	9.7
4. Rossiter, Denain	9.6
5. Osby, Maurienne	9.4
6. Daniels, Chalons-.	8.7
7. Barro, Bourg	8.5
8. Allen, Antibes	8.2
9. Badiane, Nantes	7.9
10. Dunn, Rouen	7.6

Assists Per Game

Ronnie TAYLOR
  Le Portel
  (188-PG-81)
  Avg: 6.6

1. Taylor, Le Portel	6.6
2. Mullins, Chalons-.	5.8
3. Copeland, Bourg	5.3
4. Rowland, Evreux	5.2
5. Darnauzan, Mauri.	5.1
6. Patiejunas, Rouen	4.9
7. Denave, St Vallier	4.8
8. Darrigand, Bordeaux	4.8
9. Eito, Vichy	4.4
10. Poupet, Rouen	4.4

Steals Per Game

Chris MCCRAY
  Boulogne
  (196-G/F-84)
  Avg: 2.5

1. McCray, Boulogne	2.5
2. Charles, Nantes	2.5
3. Mullins, Chalons-.	2.0
4. Paelay, Quimper	1.9
5. Shiloh, St Vallier	1.9
6. Eito, Vichy	1.9
7. Allen, Antibes	1.8
8. Driss, Bordeaux	1.8
9. Mels, Chalons-Reims	1.7
10. Daniels, Chalons-.	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Sherman GAY
  Fos Ouest
  (201-PF-82)
  Avg: 1.8

1. Gay, Fos Ouest	1.8
2. Badiane, Antibes	1.7
3. Jefferson, Vichy	1.6
4. Osby, Maurienne	1.5
5. Massie, Limoges	1.1
6. Ford, Bordeaux	1.0
7. Fields, Nantes	0.9
8. McKenzie, Boulazac	0.9
9. Barrett, St Vallier	0.8
10. Barro, Bourg	0.8

Charles-Henri Bronchard joins Le Portel - by Eurobasket News

Le Portel continued to shape up roster. They agreed on terms of contract with Charles-Henri Bronchard (199-C/F-82, agency: Court Side). The centre has become the third newcomer for Le Portel so far. Earlier they announced Armand Charles (193-SF-83) and Mathieu Bigote (187-G-84).
Charles-Henri Bronchard spent the last season in ProB. He played for Rouen Basket. The centre averaged 11.1 points, 4.9 rebounds and 1.2 assists per game. Previously Charles-Henri Bronchard had stints with Saint Vallier, Bourg, Mulhouse, Autun CS, Prisse Macon. Eurobasket.com named Charles-Henri Bronchard All-French ProB Most Improved Player of the Year in 2007. He also played at French N1 All-Star Game in 2005.

ProB: Semifinals are set - by Eurobasket News

The Semifinals in ProB are set. Third decisive games of the QFinals just ended and home teams were almost perfect. Boulazac, Chalons-Reims and Limoges celebrated home wins and advanced to the next stage, while the only team who won on the road was Fos Ouest. The Semifinals pairs are Limoges - Fos Ouest and Limoges - Chalons. The format is best-of-three and first games are scheduled for Saturday and Sunday. Teams will meet again on June 5 and 6. If necessary, third games will be played on June 8.

Boulazac - Boulogne 90-72 (2-1)
The game was mostly controlled by Boulazac Basket. SO Maritime Boulogne was better in third quarter 19-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Boulazac Basket shot 60.4 percent from the field. They also forced 19 SO Maritime Boulogne turnovers. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 27 assists comparing to just 4 passes made by SO Maritime Boulogne's players. SO Maritime Boulogne was plagued by 27 personal fouls down the stretch. It was an exceptional evening for American power forward Darryl Monroe (202-86, college: George Mason, agency: Two Points) who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 20 points, 13 rebounds and 9 assists (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field). Yannick Gaillou (196-79) accounted for 18 points for the winning side. Boulazac Basket's coach Sylvain Lautie allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Naturalized Portuguese power forward Fernando Raposo Laurencio (206-89) came up with a double-double by scoring 12 points and 17 rebounds and American power forward James Mathis (200-84, college: Niagara, agency: Court Side) added 14 points and 5 rebounds respectively for SO Maritime Boulogne in the defeat. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Boulogne: J.Rousselle 16, J.Mathis 14+5reb, F.Raposo Laurencio 12+17reb+1ast, C.McCray 10+2reb, T.Stanley 9+1reb+1ast, C.Rouse 6+5reb
Boulazac: D.Monroe 20+13reb+9ast, Y.Gaillou 18+1reb+2ast, T.Dubiez 16+3reb+2ast, R.Ayers 11+3ast, M.Cheriet 10+1reb, A.McKenzie 5+1reb

Chalons-Reims - Bordeaux 84-64 (2-1)
The game without a history. Chalons-Reims led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. It was a quality performance for swingman Rodrigue Mels (188-85, college: CS Northridge, agency: Court Side) who led the winners and scored 23 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists. American-Irish point guard Bryan Mullins (185-87, college: S.Illinois) accounted for 15 points and 6 assists for the winning side. Chalons-Reims' coach Nikola Antic allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. point guard Gauthier Darrigand (184-82) came up with 14 points and 6 assists and American power forward John Ford (207-78, college: Colorado St.) added 14 points respectively for Bordeaux in the defeat.
Top scorers:
Bordeaux: G.Darrigand 14+2reb+6ast, J.Ford 14+3reb+3ast, S.Driss 13+1reb+1ast, O.Bassett 7+3reb+1ast, B.Elisabeth-Mesnager 7+8reb, K.Cunningham 4+7reb
Chalons-Reims: R.Mels 23+6reb+6ast, B.Mullins 15+2reb+6ast, E.Plateau 9+5reb+1ast, N.Carter 9+1reb, C.Daniels 8+9reb+1ast, K.Corre 8+7reb+2ast

Limoges - Evreux 72-65 (2-1)
The hosts trailed by 7 points at the halftime before their 42-28 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Limoges CSP Elite made 21-of-26 free shots (80.8 percent) during the game. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Limoges CSP Elite made 7 blocks. 24 personal fouls committed by ALM Evreux helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was a great evening for the former international guard Joseph Gomis (180-78) who led his team to a victory scoring 21 points and 4 assists. Naturalized Mali Sambou Traore (199-79) helped adding 13 points and 5 rebounds. Four Limoges CSP Elite players scored in double figures. Limoges CSP Elite's coach Frederic Sarre used an eleven-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The best for the losing side was American power forward Jeremiah Wood (200-85, agency: Court Side) with 20 points and 7 rebounds and the other American import forward Drake Reed (192-87, college: Austin Peay St.) produced a double-double by scoring 15 points and 11 rebounds.
Top scorers:
Evreux: J.Wood 20+7reb+1ast, D.Reed 15+11reb+1ast, A.Rowland 10+2reb+3ast, G.Pons 9+1ast, S.Ho You Fat 4+4reb+2ast, L.Konate 3+3reb+2ast
Limoges: J.Gomis 21+1reb+4ast, S.Traore 13+5reb+2ast, K.McAlarney 12+1reb, N.Boungou Colo 12+6reb+2ast, R.Desroses 6+4reb+3ast, A.Curti 5+2reb+2ast

Maurienne - Fos Ouest 67-86 (1-2)
The game without a history. Fos Ouest led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. It was an exceptional evening for American guard Richard Roby (198-85) who led the winners and scored 20 points and 8 rebounds. point guard Edouard Choquet (187-88) accounted for 13 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists for the winning side. American Dar Tucker (193-88, college: De Paul) came up with 19 points and Meredis Houmounou (188-88) added 13 points respectively for Aix-Maurienne in the defeat. Five Fos Ouest and four Aix-Maurienne players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Maurienne: D.Tucker 19+4reb, M.Houmounou 13+3reb+3ast, B.Osby 11+3reb, J.Ekanga-Ehawa 10+3reb+2ast, S.Darnauzan 6+2reb+3ast, A.Gomisz 4+4reb+2ast
Fos Ouest: R.Roby 20+8reb+1ast, S.Gay 13+3reb, E.Choquet 13+5reb+4ast, S.Giffa 13+5reb+3ast, K.Atamna 10+2reb+3ast, B.Clark 8+2reb+3ast

Monaco signs Mehdi Labeyrie, Olivier Bardet and Anthony Christophe - by Eurobasket News

Monaco (NM1) announced signing of Mehdi Labeyrie (202-PF-78), Olivier Bardet (202-F-80) and Anthony Christophe (189-G-83) for the next season.
Mehdi Labeyrie arrives to the club from ESSM Le Portel Cote d'Opale, where he spent last two seasons. In the latest one he had 10.9 ppg, 3 rpg and 1.7 apg for 33 games in ProB. Before Le Portel, he was a member of Nantes.
Olivier Bardet played last several years with Nantes. This season he had 9.5 ppg, 2.5 rpg and 1.2 apg for 15 games in ProB.
Anthony Christophe joins Monaco from the ProA team Dijon. He had very limited playing time this season averaging less than a point in 29 games. Before Dijon, he played for Reims. They won NM1 title together in 2010.

Eric Girard stays with Le Portel - by Eurobasket News

According to French media (Catch-and-shoot), Eric Girard will remain at Le Portel's bench for the next season. Girard took over the club in March this year and he has an option to stay for the 2012/13. Reportedly, the coach decided to exercise it and will lead the team next season. Le Portel ended as No.15 in ProB with 12-22 record. Before Le Portel, Eric Girard worked two and a half years with Limoges. They reached ProB Finals in 2009 and 2010. In 2011, Limoges played in the Coupe de France Final. From 2004 to 2008, Girard coached Strasbourg IG and won the ProA title with them in 2005. That same year he coached at the ProA All-Star Game. In the past, Girard also worked with Le Havre and Cholet.

Cholet and Le Mans eliminate Gravelines and Nancy in OT thrillers - by Eurobasket News

Cholet and Le Mans advanced to ProA Semifinals. They eliminated Gravelines and Nancy tonight thanks to overtime wins in decisive third games of the QFinals. In the Semis, Le Mans and Cholet will meet each other, while Chalon will play against Orleans. The format is best-of-three and first games are scheduled for Friday and Saturday. Defending champion Nancy is still in, while the regular season champ Gravelines faced with elimination.

Le Mans - Nancy 92-84 OT (2-1)
Joao Paulo Batista (207-F/C-81, college: Gonzaga) led the winners with 21 points and 9 rebounds. Taylor Rochestie (185-PG-85, college: Washington St.) and Marcellus Sommerville (200-F-82, college: Bradley) (8 rebs) helped with 16 points each. In the loosing squad, Jamal Shuler (191-G-86) delivered 20 points. Quarters: 23-17, 15-21, 14-13, 18-19, 22-17 OT.
Top scorers:
Nancy: J.Shuler 20+4reb+3ast, P.Amagou 15+2reb+5ast, K.Grant 13+2ast, A.Moerman 9+12reb+1ast, A.Akingbala 9+12reb+2ast, J.Linehan 6+3reb+4ast
Le Mans: J.Paulo Batista 21+9reb+1ast, T.Rochestie 16+1reb+9ast, M.Sommerville 16+8reb+2ast, C.Kahudi 13+4reb+2ast, A.Acker 9+6reb+7ast, A.Eito 9+1reb+3ast

Gravelines - Cholet 72-78 OT (1-2)
The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Gravelines-Dunkerque won third quarter 18-16. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening, at least not yet. The game turned upside-down in the last quarter, where Gravelines-Dunkerque used huge pressure winning it 15-9 getting a tie at the end of regular time. They lost eventually overtime period 9-15. They outrebounded Gravelines-Dunkerque 52-36 including a 34-17 advantage in defensive rebounds. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Cholet made 7 blocks. It was a good game for American guard DeMarcus Nelson (191-G-85, college: Duke) who led his team to a victory with 13 points, 9 rebounds and 7 assists. His fellow American import forward Robert Dozier (206-85, college: Memphis) contributed with 18 points and 5 rebounds (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field) for the winners. The former international Cyril Akpomedah (203-79) answered with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 11 rebounds and international point guard Andrew Albicy (178-90) added 12 points and 6 assists in the effort for Gravelines-Dunkerque.
Top scorers:
Gravelines: J.Johnson 17+2reb, C.Akpomedah 16+11reb+1ast, A.Albicy 12+3reb+6ast, J.Edwards 9+4reb, L.Vaty 8+5reb, Y.Bokolo 4+2reb+1ast
Cholet: R.Dozier 18+5reb+1ast, F.Causeur 15+1reb+4ast, D.Nelson 13+9reb+7ast, W.Gradit 10+6reb, L.Vebobe 7+10reb+1ast, R.Falker 7+12reb+2ast

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FYR MACEDONIA

Stats Leaders - Superleague

Points Per Game

Dime TASOVSKI
  Lirija
  (200-F-80)
  Avg: 19.2

1. Tasovski, Lirija	19.2
2. Tasovski, Rabotnic.	17.7
3. Radunovic, Lirija	17.7
4. Radulovic, Vardar	17.5
5. Jelesijevic, Kuman.	17.1
6. Gecevski, MZT S.	16.4
7. Karadzovski, Torus	15.9
8. Janjusevic, Kuman.	15.3
9. Trajkovski, Torus	15.1
10. Georgievski, Vard.	15.1

Rebounds Per Game

Dustin MITCHELL
  Lirija
  (206-F/C-87)
  Avg: 8.2

1. Mitchell, Lirija	8.2
2. Gecevski, MZT S.	7.8
3. Reynolds, Torus S.	7.6
4. Cekovski, MZT S.	7.5
5. Radunovic, Lirija	7.3
6. Nikolovski, Feni I.	6.8
7. Mikic, Kumanovo	6.6
8. Jelesijevic, Kuman.	6.6
9. Dahlman, MZT S.	6.5
10. Knezevic, Feni I.	6.5

Assists Per Game

Carlos MORBAN
  Lirija
  (187-G-82)
  Avg: 4.4

1. Morban, Lirija	4.4
2. Karadzovski, Torus	3.8
3. Petrovski, Rabotni.	3.6
4. Mijajlovic, MZT S.	3.6
5. Kostoski, Kumanovo	3.4
6. Tasevski, Vardar	3.2
7. Samardziev, Feni I.	3.1
8. Dimitrovski, Kozuv	3.0
9. Frye, Feni Indistr.	3.0
10. Cekovski, MZT S.	2.8

Steals Per Game

Dime TASOVSKI
  Rabotnicki
  (200-F-80)
  Avg: 2

1. Tasovski, Rabotnic.	2.0
2. Frye, Feni Indistr.	2.0
3. Radunovic, Lirija	1.8
4. Tasovski, Lirija	1.5
5. Morban, Lirija	1.4
6. Dimitrovski, Kozuv	1.3
7. Tasevski, Vardar	1.2
8. Tomasevic, Kozuv	1.2
9. Dimcevski, Torus S.	1.2
10. Filipovic, Lirija	1.2

Blocks Per Game

Nemanja JELESIJEVIC
  Kumanovo
  (210-C/F-79)
  Avg: 1.4

1. Jelesijevic, Kuman.	1.4
2. Chappell, ABA S.	1.2
3. Kralevski, Vardar	1.1
4. Trajkovski, Torus	1.1
5. Avramovski, Lirija	1.0
6. Reynolds, Torus S.	0.9
7. Cole, Rabotnicki	0.9
8. Mitchell, Lirija	0.7
9. Radunovic, Lirija	0.7
10. Simic, Lirija	0.7

GERMANY

Carl Mbassa a coach assistant at USC Heidelberg - by Moritz Korff

Shortly after the announcement that Tony Garbelotto has been appointed the new head coach of USC Heidelberg, the Pro A team added another fresh face to its coaching staff. Carl Mbassa will serve as an assistant to Garbelotto. The 33-year-old former longterm 2. Bundesliga player (Speyer, Koblenz, Freiburg, Chemnitz, Noerdlingen, Saar-Pfalz Braves) spent the 2011-12 season at the helm of Regionalliga team BIS Baskets Speyer. It was his first head coaching job after announcing his retirement as a basketball player in 2011.

Lars Wendt moves from Paderborn to Schwelm - by Moritz Korff

Lars Wendt (190-G-92) will transfer from Paderborn to Schwelm, as the Pro B side announced today. Thus the 19-year-old will try to make the next step in his career by taking one step back. During the 2011-12 season Wendt saw action in 20 Pro A games (7.5 minutes per contest), averaging close to 2 points per outing. In 2010 he attended the Albert-Schweitzer-Tournament as well as the European Championships with the German U18 National Team.
'First of all I'm happy that we were able to sign such a good and talented player. Though he is still very young, he owns a lot of experience thanks to the past two years which he spent in the Pro A, his appearances on several select teams and the national team. Lars can do much more than he was able to show last year. He will primarily play the shooting guard spot for us and I am sure that he will play a good role for us. He is an outstanding and tenacious defender und also possesses a good shot from outside', Schwelm coach Raphael Wilder says.

Rich Melzer (You Have To Appreciate How Far FC Bayern Munich Went This Season) - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Rich Melzer (203-F/C-79, agency: Court Side, college: Wisc.-RiverFal.)s a 32 year old 203cm forward/center from Minneapolis, Minnesota that is playing his first season for the New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig. He played at : Wisconsim-River Falls (NCAA3) from 2000-2004. In his 8 year professional basketball career, he has played in countries like New Zealand, France, Israel and Australia. He had his first tour of duty in Germany in the 2007-2008 season with Artland Dragons Quakenbrueck (Germany-1.Bundesliga): ULEB Cup: 2 games: 5.5ppg, 2.0rpg; German League: 1 game: 11pts, 2reb, 1steal. In his rookie season, he took part at the Washington Wizards training camp. Last season he played for Hapoel Holon (Israel-Premier League, starting five): 30 games: 16.8ppg, 6.7rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 48.6%, 3PT: 27.3%, FT: 75.3%. He spoke to Eurobasket before the 2012 Beko BBL semi final playoff series.

How surprised were you that the s:Oliver Baskets Wurzburg got past Alba Berlin 3-1? What was key in this series for Alba Berlin getting an early summer vacation?

I was a bit surprised but only based on the budgets of both teams. I know the Berlin supporters and management is less than pleased right now. But you can't underestimate a team who plays as gritty and as tough and as scrappy as Wurzburg. They're no fun to play against, especially at their place. I know Berlin has a higher caliber of all around players, but sometimes when you know you should win it makes it even more difficult to do so and can be a disadvantage as it was for Berlin this season. Kudos to Wurzburg as well for pulling together for the upset in the series.

Were you surprised by the easy time that ratiopharm Ulm had in getting past the New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig? What was key for Ulm advancing?

They're a team that has obviously had great chemistry and synergy with one another and its only grown exponentially throughout the season. They trust in each other and they all play well together and it seems everyone knows their roles on that team. Aside from what I observed from the players while competing against them, they're also well coached and to have a unit that close and willing to sacrifice for one another obviously has to be encouraged and facilitated from the coaches as well. Its no surprise in hindsight that they were able to for lack of a better word 'cruise,' by us in the first-round. I give credit to all my teammates as talent-wise, we have what I believe to be one of the best group of players and veterans in the league and under most circumstances, would have shown a better effort to advance had we had the support system and ability to make adjustments faster like they did. The key for Ulms advancement is simple, they were better prepared than us and it continued to snowball for them through the season.

The Telekom Baskets Bonn won game one, but Bamberg then won the next three. What was key for Bamberg advancing?

I think Bonn could've put up a better fight had they remained a bit deeper in their bench. Bamberg is deeply talented in both their starting 5 and the backup guys. Also, knowing the coaches over there at Bamberg I'm sure they were a bit taken back after loosing the first game and clearly made the necessary adjustments to see to it the same mistakes didnt hapen twice. Despite Bamberg winning 3 games to 1, it seemed to be a well fought series of games.

The most exciting series was Artland-FC Bayern Munich. Why wasnt FC Bayern Munich a title team this season?

I honestly don't know. Perhaps because Holman and Troutman came a bit late. When I heard Chevy was coming to Munich, I knew things would change as he's been a good friend of mine for quite sometime and after playing with him in France, I knew he's the kind of player who can elevate a teams chances just by being on the floor. I've played with Wallace as well and I think he's been underrated this season as he's certainly a championship caliber player. With the quality of the rest of their team and Coach Bauerman, the pieces were certainly aligned for them to do well. However, after a slow start this season I think you have to appreciate how far they've come in one season especially after getting guys in late and having to gel quickly. Congratulations to Artland as well. Its no question they're continually a contender year after year.

The most exciting semi final series seems to be Wurzburg-Ulm. Wurzburg comes in with a lot of confidence. What kind of series can we await?

Put it like this, the fans will certainly get their moneys worth. I can't even predict or assume whats going to happen with this series. If I had to, I'd say Wurzburg needs to come down off of their high quickly and have a short memory because now they have to face another quality team that's been waiting patiently with no regard for who they have to play. Use this last rounds success as fuel coming into the next round. And for Ulm, They're going to have to increase their intensity and grit, even from the high-levels in which they played against us. New round of playoffs are going to need new levels of output clearly. Good luck to both teams and may everyone remain injury free.

What does Wurzburg/Ulm have to do to get to the final and what is your prediction?

Everything is going to have to come together for both teams. Where Ulm has both great star players and role players, I think their bench is going to have to continue to step up. Facing an ambitious and rough team like Wurzburg means Wurzburg is going to wear you down and make life difficult on the court. For Ulm, I think they're just in a great all around rhythm right now and if it ain't broke don't fix it. Whatevers given them success up until now is going to continue to do so should they stick with it.

Who are the x-factors?

In this series I don't know that there are any. Everyone is going to play a pivotal role at some point in this series. I'd hate to call someone out like some underdog. In the post-season, I believe you have to respect everyone because now is when players begin making real names for themselves. I believe a better question could maybe be 'what' are the x factors? Then I'd have to say the road-games. Wurzburg is just as difficult to play at as Ulm is despite having a smaller attendance. Stealing the first road-game could be a game-changer for either clubs.

What kind of a series can we await with Bamberg-Artland?

I'm going to try to keep this one short and just say expect the unexpected. I'm not saying Artland is going to win and I'm not saying Bamberg is going to sweep this team either. I'm just saying, in all honesty, who the hell knows.

Do The Los Angeles Lakers have any chance being down 0-2 to get past the Thunder?

Absolutely not. Let's quit playin' games here and move forward to next season. We'll let the Lakers obtain Dwight Howard, and move forward amicably to Kobes 6th and final championship. It's not going to happen this year for the Lakers. Unless of course, Kobe starts doin' what Kobe does which is in all realms and spectrums of unbelievable. I like Kobe as a player, but I think OKC is rollin' right now and clickin' on all cylinders.

The Miami Heat-Indiana Pacers series is at 1-1. Do the Pacers have any chance of advancing?

Is chicken pork? Do cats bark? Am I in any way, shape, or form satisfied with this tedious and trying season we just finished?

Derrick Rose is projected to miss 8-12 months. Could this injury change him as a player when he finally returns?

It could make him better I believe. Look what it did for Blake Griffin. I know Derrick is a bit older, but even so he still hasn't peaked yet. I hope and pray for his sake and the sake of the game that this time off makes him hungrier and makes him appreciate his abilities and blessings more as I know it will. I've spent a year off of the court as a result of injury in my career and the things it does to your mind can trigger things that would've never been brought to light had something not happened. I believed the adversity was good for me, as it will be for him and has been for so many others. The game will miss him but it'll be there when he gets back. I haven't always been a big fan of his, but I always respected his game and I'm pulling for him now even more so.

Thanks Rich for the chat.

Johannes Strasser Remains With The Artland Dragons - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

It hasnt been even 48 hours since the Brose Baskets Bamberg swept and kicked out the Artland Dragons from the semi finals, but the Quackenbruck basketball team is already looking forward to the future and have resigned 30 year old German Johannes Strasser (190-G-82, agency: Court Side) who will be playing his third season for Stefan Koch. Last season the ex Cologne and Bonn guard played 42 Beko BBL games averaging 5,9ppg, 1,2rpg and 1,8 apg. He also played EuroCup Qualifications: 2 games: 8.5ppg, 1.0rpg, 1.0spg; EuroChallenge: 14 games: 4.2ppg, 1.2rpg, 2.6apg. Stefan Koch is content about holding the three time Beko BBL cup winner for another season. 'He was an important part of our success in the last two seasons. He is a good defender, shooter and puts the interests of the team ahead of his own. Tyron McCoy, Martin Schiller and I have really valued him as a player and person', stressed Artland Dragons head coach Stefan Koch.

Source: Artland Dragons

Jannik Freese Stays At Home With The EWE Baskets Oldenburg - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

What better way to get added strength and zeal for pre summer workouts when a player knows that there is no more worrying to do about his future when he can be signed early as German Jannik Freese (211-F/C-86) learned today as he will stay another year with 2009 Beko BBL champion EWE Baskets Oldenburg. Freese is a 25 year old 211cm power forward forward/center that usually spends time in Washington DC each summer and also likes showing consistency staying with one club for longer than one season as he has demonstrated since 2005 playing only in Braunschweig and Giessen. Last season under Predrag Krunich, the German didnt play too much playing 17 games and averaging 1,6ppg and 1,2rpg in 6,2 minutes per game. He also played EuroChallenge: 6 games: 2.2ppg, 2.2rpg. Despite his rare appearances last season, new head coach Sebastian Machowski seems to believe in his potential. 'Jannik has not arrived at the end of his potential yet. He will have to continue to work hard in practice to continue to keep showing signs of his flashing potential', stated Sebastian Machowski. Freese who sees Washington DC as a second home away from home continues to work on his game there. 'I am working 5 times in the week with apersonal trainer. Soon I will play in a tournament at Georgetown that will feature NBA and college players. I am already looking forward to the new season in Oldenburg with Sebastian machowski and seeing the known faces', stressed Jannik Freese (211-F/C-86).

Source: EWE Baskets Oldenburg

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GREECE

Hines: No better feeling! - by Kostas Papadopoulos

Kyle Hines (198-F-86), being crazy after winning the Euroleague title with Olympiakos, expressed his feelings in the blog he keeps at the official site of the competition. The more interesting of his statements are:

- I am the forward/center of the 2012 Euroleague champions, Olympiacos. Yes, you read that right! We did what many deemed unthinkable and impossible at the beginning of the season. We travelled to Istanbul, as the underdogs of the Final Four and left as THE CHAMPIONS!!!!!!!!!
- This season has been truly an amazing journey. At the beginning of the season Olympiacos was far from being considered a favourite to win the Euroleague title. We were called too young and inexperienced. They said we lacked the star power and big-name players to be considered serious contenders, that if we reached the Top 16, it should be considered a big success. We used this as motivation throughout the Euroleague season to continue to defy the naysayers and advance to where nobody thought it was possible for us to go.
- Everybody I have talked to has said that they thought the finals game against CSKA was one of the best games that they have ever seen - and not only in basketball! We were able to somehow come back from 19 points down and get the win. That game basically shows what has made our team special through the entire season. Our team's character and resilience has been the key to our success this year.
- It still hasn't quite sunk in that we are the Euroleague champions. It has always been a goal of mine - as I'm sure it is for many other players in Europe - to win the Euroleague. I just didn't necessary think it would happen so early in my career. Two years ago, I was playing in the second division of Italy, and now I'm a part of the best team in all of Europe... Wow, I still can't believe it!
- I'm really happy that I had the opportunity to accomplish this goal with the guys on our team. I think one of the major reasons why we have been able to be so successful is because of the chemistry and relationships that we have been able to build with each other throughout the season. I can honestly say, I've never been on a team like this, where all 16 players, coaches and staff all enjoy being with each other both on and off the court. Even without winning the Euroleague championship, this has been the most enjoyable season I've had in my basketball life.
- The Olympiacos fans have been amazing the entire season. When we returned to the airport, there was thousands and thousands of fans waiting to celebrate with us. They then followed us all the way back to our arena to celebrate even more, shutting down all the highways on the way. I was surprised at how many people were there celebrating. I've never seen anything like it before. That ride home from the airport is something that I will never forget. Even in Istanbul, our fans were amazing; it felt like we were playing a home game. The Olympiacos fans deserved this championship; it had been 15 years since they were last able to celebrate a title. I'm happy that we were the team that was able to bring the championship celebration back to Piraeus.
- Many thanks to all the Turkish Airlines Euroleague fans around the world for the continue support to my teammates and me. We proved this season that it isn't important to have the biggest budget or the biggest stars in order to win. If you have a strong team desire and the will to fight and believe, then anything is possible. No longer can they call us too young, inexperienced or underdogs. All they can call us now is. CHAMPIONS!!!!!!

Courtesy of Euroleague.net

Dimitris Papanikolaou the new head coach of Ilysiakos - by Giorgos Diploidis

Ilysiakos Athens announced that their new head coach will be Dimitris Papanikolaou (202-F-77). The board of the team of Athens gives a chance to a great ex-player but an inexperienced coach to prove his value also in the bench of a team. Papanikolaou had passed as a coach for some time last year in AEK in A2 category but he didn't continue.

That happened because the former coach of the team Kostas Flevarakis was hired in Germany in the club of New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig.

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HOLLAND

Three more games for Netherlands in China - by Eurobasket News

Netherlands played three more games on their China tour. They celebrated one victory in those.
They first surrendered against USA All-Star selection 83:97. Netherlands trailed by 14 points at the interval and never recovered in the second half suffering a heavy loss. Kenneth van Kempen (208-C-87, agency: Court Side, college: Ohio) notched 21 points to lead the charge. He added 8 rebounds to his tally.
Next Netherlands took on China U23 selection. The hosts proved too good for the European team claiming an 84:66 victory. China built a 45:39 halftime lead. The home team stepped on the gas in the fourth quarter and ran away with a comfortable win at the end. Kenneth van Kempen and Sjors Besseling (198-F-85, agency: Court Side) produced 15 points each in the loss. The first one added 11 rebounds.
Netherlands however capped their campaign with victory. They held off Latvian B National Team 80:77. Kenneth van Kempen led the effort once again scoring 25 points. Ralf de Pagter (200-F-89, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement) contributed 16 points, while Dimeo Van Der Horst (195-G/F-91, agency: R.H.Consultancy) had 14 points in the winning case.

Raoul Korner, "Our defense was our backbone the whole season" - by Fred Roggen

I had an exclusive end of season Interview with EiffelTowers Den Bosch head coach Raoul Korner talking about the season, expectations, and the Championship.
At just 38 years old, he can be considered not only the most successful Austrian coach ever, but one of the best of all times.
Among the many remarkable aspects to EiffelTowers first Dutch championship since 2007 was Raoul Korner doing a masterful job as coach.

First of all Raoul, congratulations on winning the Dutch Championship. It was a fantastic finish.
Thank you very much! It feels still a little unreal.

Talk about the season, review it, now that its all wrapped up. How did everything go?
It all started this summer, when we had to make the right adjustments in order to improve the roster. Looking back now, I think we made the right moves on every single position.
The injury of Peter van Paassen hurt us during the regular season and kept us from finishing first place in my opinion. We played very well around Christmas, when we had everybody on board and reached first place. At the end it was a close race where we ended one game short of going into the playoffs from that first spot. Just in time we had everybody back healthy and we caught momentum at the right time. You always want your team to play its best basketball in the playoffs, and I think that's what we did.

Talk about THE game. Going into the championship game, you had a degree of confidence. What was your attitude going into the game?
We had no reason not to be confident. We had won in Leiden the two games before that and we knew if we could just rebound the ball a little better, we had a very good chance to win again. We all felt that the outcome of this series exclusively depended on us. We had it in our hands, we were in control. That's a good feeling to play a series.

Did the Semi Final serie against GasTerra Flames erase all doubt about whether EiffelTowers is ready? It looks that the fourth game in that serie was the key for the team's success.
Game 4 was definitely a big win, when we had to play without two starters. To win a 'do-or-die' game with only 6 players, only one American, is special and gave us a confidence boost.
I would still say that the 30-point loss in Leeuwarden was the turnaround for us. The team really responded well after that by blowing out Leiden at home in another 'do-or-die' game.

What was your overall strategy for that game?
It was very difficult, because our biggest strength was to play aggressive defense and run after stops, especially at home. Since we only had six players, we needed to pick our moments. We tried to control the tempo of the game as much as possible, using every possible minute to catch a breath. We just had to hang in there for the first half and get a run towards the end of the game, when it would be too late for Groningen to react. That worked out perfectly, also because we made big shots at the right moments.

What was the key to your success this year?
The key was a very well balanced team, where everybody understood his role and fulfilled it with pride and respect for his teammates.

Who are the leaders on the team and in what respect are they leaders?
We didn't have a designated leader, but many players who took leadership in certain moments.
Some players are more vocal, others don't say a word and lead by example. Players respected each other and accepted the dogma that you should either lead, follow, or get out of the way.

It strikes me -- looking at your team -- that theres discipline. You dont have guys going crazy hogging the ball. Theyre all looking to each other and working it. Can you talk about how much that kind of discipline factors into a win?
The team was set up in a way where we needed to play a certain style in order to win: We had to move the ball, have good spacing, make the right decisions, take care of the ball and execute with discipline, because we didn't have the players who had their strengths in breaking down the defense in one-on-one situations. And we had to defend! Our defense was our backbone the whole season. We knew that if we would play consistent on the defensive end, we would always have a chance to win. We had a clear identity as a team and our playing style was clearly defined.

Have you and your team had some mental fatigue?
I think throughout a long season, every team does at some point. But if you have a common goal, which is important enough for everybody, you pick yourself up again and keep fighting. Let's also not forget that as a player and coach you have the privilege to get payed for doing what you love most. Once you keep that in mind, you don't feel mentally tired anymore.

How influential do you consider your coaching style to be on the teams mentality?
That is a tough question for me to answer. You should probably ask my players about that. As a coach you want your players to make the best out of their individual abilities within a team concept. Sometimes you have to be loud, sometimes you have to be calm. Then you have to be creative one time or more conservative another time, whatever the team needs at a certain moment. The degree of influence might also be different from time to time. The worst thing you can do as a coach is over-coach!

How is it possible to motivate your players and keep the intensity in each and every game?
The worst thing for a coach is when you have to coach effort! If you don't have self-driven players who are motivated to improve, compete and work, you will fail as a team and coach sooner or later. Of course there are moments when you have to intervene and get the players sharp again, but you should never have to do this the whole season long. We had a very self-motivated team, which was one reason why we won the championship.
Another thing everybody needs to understand is that you need to have periods where you don't play well. Only average teams play their best basketball the whole season! But the effort needs to be there every practice and game, from coaches and players. Your effort needs to be consistant!

We always talk about motivating players, but what motivates a coach.
I can only speak for myself, but my biggest motivation are motivated players who want to work, learn and win as a team.

A lot of people are surprised at the level of the teams success this year. What about you
As a coach you should never be surprised when your team is successful! We knew that if we could play our best basketball in the playoffs and if everybody stays healthy, we would have a chance. Then of course you need some luck, too. Let's not forget, that we were one open layup away from being eliminated in game 5 of the semi finals...

Talk about one or two guys that stand out as being underrated contributors to your teams success?
Let me mention one player who stands for many so called 'role players' (I don't really like that expression, because everybody is a role player, some roles are just bigger than others), who are usually not in the spotlight: Djoenie Steenvoorde. For me he is the prototype of a team player! If I played him only a few minutes, he would give all he had in that limited time, and when I needed him to play a lot, he would perform as well - never a bad look when pulled out of the game although he played well, never lack of focus in practice, although he didn't know how much he would play next game. It was never about him, he always put the team first. Every championship team needs a Djoenie!

Finally what message do you have for the fans of EiffelTowers?
It's back!!! :-)

No, seriously, I want to thank all of our fans for supporting us throughout the last two seasons, through good and not so good games. Our fans are phantastic, true championship fans and I am very happy for every single one of them that we could give them a little bit back with this title - Heya Den Bosch!

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

ICELAND

Sundsvall Dragons extend Jakob Sigurdarson for 3 more years - by Eurobasket News

As expected, Jakob Sigurdarson (192-G-82, college: Birm.Southern) stays with Sundsvall Dragons. They penned a three-year deal today. Sigurdarson already spent last three seasons with the Dragons. In the latest one he had 19.2 ppg, 2.8 rpg and 2.8 apg in 40 games. He was the second best scorer of Basketligan. Sigurdarson helped Dragons to win the Basketligan title in 2011 and he was named Eurobasket.com All-Swedish Basketligan Player of the Year. He got the same award also in 2010. Jakob Sigurdarson joined Sundsvall in 2009 from KR Reykjavik. In the past, he also played in Hungary, Spain (LEB2) and Germany. In 2000 and later from 2004 to 2009, Sigurdarson played for the Icelandic National Team.

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INDIA

Chattisgarh boys and girls make it to the finals of 63rd National junior basketball championship - by umashankar gowda

Shruti scores, as maharastra take chattisgarh in the girls finals

Shruthi menon scores a basket in the dying seconds of the fourth qtr to make sure Maharashtra girls make to the final.

Sneha, shurti and shreen played a fabulous game each scoring 15, 11, 11 respectively. Tamil nadu girls made a good come back after they were trailing behind with 5 points at the half time 27-32. At the end of the 3rd qtr the scores were leveled at 45-45 . Both the teams played good defense, with dying seconds and the scores leveled at 55-55 shruti made no mistake in shooting a basket which sunk 57-55. for tamilnadu priyadarshini's 21 points went in-vain as they lost by 2 points and she was assisted by fellow teammate vyshali scoring 11 points

In the earlier match Chattisgarh who won against kerala comfortably 83-71. with jeena scoring 35 points, which did not help kerala to get past the chattisgarh girls to make it to the finals of the 63rd National junior basketball championship. At the other end saramjeet kaur scored a mammoth of 31 points and she was assisted by sangeetha and poonam who scored 17 and 16 points respectively.

semifinals -girls
Maharashtra 57 (Sneha Rajguru 15, Shruti Menon 11) bt Tamil Nadu 55 ( Priyadarshini 21, Vyshali 11).
Chhattisgarh 83 (Saramjeet Kaur 31) bt Kerala 71 (Jeena 35, Grima 21, Anjana 15);
semifinals- boys
Chhattisgarh 74 (Aakash Bhasin 21) bt Madhya Pradesh 60 (Amit Kanarjee 18)

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ISRAEL

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

Eurobasket.com All-Israeli League 1st Team 2012

Travis

Hendrix

Carter

Ohayon

Kitchen

Player of the Year: Romeo Travis (200-PF-84) of Galil Gilboa
Guard of the Year: Keith Langford (193-G/F-83) of Maccabi T-A
Forward of the Year: Romeo Travis (200-PF-84) of Galil Gilboa
Center of the Year: Richard Hendrix (203-F/C-86) of Maccabi T-A
Import Player of the Year: Joe Crawford (196-G/F-86) of Maccabi Rishon
Domestic Player of the Year: Yogev Ohayon (189-G-87) of Maccabi T-A
Newcomer of the Year: Gilad Karni (195-F/G-87) of Maccabi Ashdod
Sixth Man of the Year: Alex Tyus (203-F-88) of Maccabi Ashdod
Defensive Player of the Year: Bryant Dunston (202-F/C-86) of Hapoel Holon
Co-Coach of the Year: David Blatt of Maccabi T-A
Co-Coach of the Year: Ofer Berkovic of Maccabi Ashdod

1st Team
F/C: Richard Hendrix (203-86) of Maccabi T-A
PF: Romeo Travis (200-84) of Galil Gilboa
F/G: Josh Carter (201-88) of Maccabi Ashdod
G: Yogev Ohayon (189-87) of Maccabi T-A
G: Derwin Kitchen (193-86) of Maccabi Rishon

2nd Team
F/C: Bryant Dunston (202-86) of Hapoel Holon
G/F: Joe Crawford (196-86) of Maccabi Rishon
G/F: Keith Langford (193-83) of Maccabi T-A
F: Alex Tyus (203-88) of Maccabi Ashdod
PG: Meir Tapiro (192-75) of Maccabi Ashdod

3rd Team
G: Ron Lewis (193-84) of Hapoel Holon
G/F: Devin Smith (196-83) of Maccabi T-A
C/F: Joseph Jones (204-86) of Galil Gilboa
F/C: Lior Eliyahu (206-85) of Maccabi T-A
F/C: Adrian Uter (201-84) of Maccabi Rishon

Honorable Mention
Marco Killingsworth (202-F/C-82) of Ironi Ashkelon
Brandon Bowman (204-F-84) of Maccabi Rishon
Moran Roth (183-PG-82) of Hapoel Holon
Dagan Yavzuri (193-G-85) of Galil Gilboa
Sylven Landesberg (198-F/G-90) of Maccabi Haifa
Brian Randle (203-F-85) of Hapoel J-M
Raviv Limonad (192-G-84) of Ironi Ashkelon
Robby Bostain (194-G/F-84) of Maccabi Ashdod
Frank Robinson (193-G-84) of B.C. Habikaa
Nizan Hanochi (194-G-86) of Maccabi Rishon
Brian Asbury (200-SF-86) of Elitzur Netanya
D.J. Strawberry (196-G-85) of Hapoel J-M
Tweety Carter (180-PG-86) of Bnei Hasharon
Dion Dowell (200-F/G-85) of B.C. Habikaa
Ido Kozikaro (203-C-78) of Galil Gilboa
Kenny Lawson (206-C-88) of Bnei Hasharon
Tyler Wilkerson (202-F-88) of Maccabi Haifa
David Blu (201-F-80) of Maccabi T-A
Isaac Rosefelt (205-C/F-85) of Bnei Hasharon
Dwayne Mitchell (196-G/F-82) of Ironi Ashkelon
Yuval Naimy (188-PG-85) of Hapoel J-M
Ezequiel Skverer (188-PG-89) of B.C. Habikaa
Adrian Banks (191-G-86) of Elitzur Netanya
Tasmin Mitchell (201-F-86) of Hapoel Holon
Josh Duncan (203-C/F-86) of Maccabi Ashdod
Paul Delaney (188-G-86) of B.C. Habikaa
Courtney Fells (198-SF-86) of Galil Gilboa

All-Imports Team
G/F: Joe Crawford (196-86) of Maccabi Rishon
G/F: Keith Langford (193-83) of Maccabi T-A
PF: Romeo Travis (200-84) of Galil Gilboa
G: Derwin Kitchen (193-86) of Maccabi Rishon
F/C: Richard Hendrix (203-86) of Maccabi T-A

All-Defensive Team
Brian Randle (203-F-85) of Hapoel J-M
Bryant Dunston (202-F/C-86) of Hapoel Holon
Frank Robinson (193-G-84) of B.C. Habikaa
Nizan Hanochi (194-G-86) of Maccabi Rishon
Adrian Uter (201-F/C-84) of Maccabi Rishon

By David Pick and Netanel Dahan

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

ITALY

Stats Leaders - SerieA

Points Per Game

Andre SMITH
  Otto C.
  (203-F-85)
  Avg: 18.4

1. Smith, Otto C.	18.4
2. Coleman, Angelico.	18.2
3. White, Scavolin.	17.3
4. Diener, Banco d.	17.0
5. Hickman, Scavolin.	16.3
6. Green, Sidigas AV	16.1
7. Pullen, Angelico BI	16.0
8. Shakur, Novipiu CM	16.0
9. Dean, Sidigas AV	16.0
10. Tucker, Acea Roma	15.4

Rebounds Per Game

Viktor SANIKIDZE
  CS Bo.
  (203-F-86)
  Avg: 11

1. Sanikidze, CS Bo.	11.0
2. Johnson, Sidigas	10.1
3. Ivanov, Fabi Shoes	8.2
4. Smith, Otto C.	7.7
5. Brunner, Fabi Shoes	7.6
6. Gigli, CS Bologna	7.4
7. Jones, Scavolini PS	7.2
8. Chiotti, Novip.	7.0
9. Easley, Banco d.	7.0
10. Miralles, Angelic.	6.9

Assists Per Game

Marques GREEN
  Sidigas AV
  (167-PG-82)
  Avg: 6.5

1. Green, Sidigas AV	6.5
2. Diener, Banco d.	5.6
3. Collins, Otto Case.	5.2
4. Cook, Armani Mit	5.1
5. Shakur, Novipiu CM	4.3
6. Mekel, Benetton TV	3.7
7. Poeta, CS Bologna	3.6
8. McCalebb, Montepa.	3.4
9. Perkins, Bennet C.	3.3
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 Shoes	2.6
3. Green, Sidigas AV	2.5
4. Hackett, Scavolin.	2.3
5. Perkins, Bennet C.	2.1
6. Hosley, Banco d.	2.1
7. Dean, Sidigas AV	2.0
8. Di Bella, Fabi S.	1.9
9. Pullen, Angelico BI	1.8
10. Collins, Otto Cas.	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Jarvis VARNADO
  Acea Roma
  (206-F-88)
  Avg: 1.9

1. Varnado, Acea Roma	1.9
2. Cusin, Scavolini PS	1.3
3. Johnson, Sidigas	1.3
4. Easley, Banco d.	1.2
5. Szewczyk, Umana V.	1.1
6. Shermadini, Bennet	1.0
7. Sanikidze, CS Bo.	0.9
8. Slokar, Acea Roma	0.8
9. Bourousis, Armani	0.8
10. Crosariol, Acea R.	0.8

Stats Leaders - Lega2

Points Per Game

Troy BELL
  S.Antimo
  (186-PG-80)
  Avg: 23.2

1. Bell, S.Antimo	23.2
2. Hardy, Giorgio	23.0
3. Marigney, Givova S.	21.2
4. Freeman, MarcoPol.	20.9
5. Voskuil, Morpho B.	18.8
6. Maggioli, Fileni B.	18.5
7. Robinson, Trenkwal.	18.0
8. McConnell, Fileni	17.6
9. Taylor, Trenkwal.	17.1
10. Brooks, Fileni BPA	17.0

Rebounds Per Game

James THOMAS
  Givova S.
  (203-F/C-80)
  Avg: 11.9

1. Thomas, Givova S.	11.9
2. Anderson, Morpho B.	8.2
3. Jones, Giorgio	7.9
4. Maggioli, Fileni B.	7.7
5. Baldassarre, Bianc.	7.5
6. Waleskowski, Tezen.	7.4
7. Borovnjak, Enel B.	7.2
8. Diliegro, Assi Ost.	7.1
9. Brooks, Fileni BPA	6.9
10. Kotti, Aget Imola	6.9

Assists Per Game

Mike GREEN
  Sigma B.
  (185-PG-85)
  Avg: 4.9

1. Green, Sigma B.	4.9
2. Johnson, Assi O.	4.5
3. Porta, Tezenis	4.4
4. Kelley, Biancobl.	3.5
5. McConnell, Fileni	3.4
6. Whiting, Aget Imola	3.4
7. Renfroe, Enel B.	3.3
8. Marigney, Givova S.	3.3
9. Goldwire, Centra.	3.0
10. Blizzard, Biancob.	3.0

Steals Per Game

Mario WEST
  Tezenis .
  (195-G-84)
  Avg: 3.1

1. West, Tezenis	3.1
2. Thompson, Centra.	2.6
3. Green, Sigma B.	2.6
4. Robinson, Trenkwal.	2.4
5. Baldassarre, Bianc.	2.4
6. Radulovic, Givova	2.4
7. Porta, Tezenis	2.3
8. Marigney, Givova S.	2.3
9. Goldwire, Centra.	2.2
10. Blizzard, Biancob.	2.1

Blocks Per Game

Riccardo CERVI
  Trenkwalder
  (215-C-91)
  Avg: 2.2

1. Cervi, Trenkwalder	2.2
2. Maggioli, Fileni B.	1.7
3. Thomas, Givova S.	0.9
4. Radulovic, Givova	0.9
5. Brkic, Prima Veroli	0.8
6. Chiacig, Trenkwald.	0.7
7. Kotti, Aget Imola	0.6
8. Da Ros, Sigma B.	0.6
9. Galanda, Giorgi.	0.6
10. Zerini, Enel Brin.	0.6

Thomas Branca is the 2011 World Top Scorer - by Crazy

According to *our database, Thomas Branca (188-G-88) is the 2011 World Top Scorer by average. Branca, playing for Borgosesia in italian Serie D, average more than 35 points per game, leading the nation in points per game and also, according to the Database, the rest of the world.
The italian guard outduel Lloyd Johnson (180-G-85), who scores 34.8 points per game playing for Hudson in the EBA , a minor league of the United States. Third place for Horizon's Charles Parker (193-G-85, college: Millersville) (34.7 ppg), playing in the EBA as well. Fourth place for Costanzo Ruocco (184-SF-83), scoring 34.5 ppg for Capri in italian Promozione.
5th position for Gaines Charles (201-F-81, college: S.Mississippi) of Qingdao (CBA China), then Ralph Bucci (193-G-75, college: St.Rose, NY) (Valley, England EBL Division 2), Quincy Douby (191-G-84, college: Rutgers) (Xinjiang, CBA China), Nikolai Balev (209-C/F-77) (Chavdar, Division A Bulgaria), Kevin Sowell (190-G-81, agency: Interperformances) (Guasave, Cibacopa Mexico) and Chamberlain Oguchi (198-G-86, college: Illinois St.) (Meralco, PBA). More than 100 Leagues all around the world are included in those stats. Pro, Semi-pro and Amateur League are included, College or U-21, U-19 etc tournaments are not included. If you have any additional information please contact us or send email to the author.

2011
35.1 - THOMAS BRANCA, BORGOSESIA, SERIE D ITALY
34.8 - LLOYD JOHNSON, HUDSON, EBA USA
34.7 - CHARLES PARKER, HORIZON, EBA USA
34.5 - COSTANZO RUOCCO, CAPRI, PROMOZIONE ITALY
33.7 - CHARLES GAINES, QINGDAO, CBA CHINA
32.9 - RALPH BUCCI, T.VALLEY, EBL DIVISION 2 ENGLAND
32.0 - QUINCY DOUBY, XINJIANG, CBA CHINA
30.8 - NIKOLAI BALEV, CHAVDAR, DIVISION A BULGARIA
30.7 - KEVIN SOWELL, GUASAVE, CIBACOPA MEXICO
30.7 - CHAMBERLAIN OGUCHI, MERALCO, PBA COMM PHILIPPINE

Our Database includes stats from more than 100 leagues all around the world: Australia (NBL, ABA); New Zealand (NBL); Argentina (A, TNA); Brazil (National); Chile (Dimayor); Cuba (LSB); Mexico (Cibacopa, LNBP); Dominican Rep. (LNB); P.Rico (BSN, SUPERLEAGUE); Uruguay (LUB, Metro); Venezuela; Chile (Dimayor); China (CBA); United Kingdom (BBA, Div. 1 & 2); Turkey (TBL, TBL2); Switzerland (LNA, LNB, 1L); Sweden (Ligan, Basketettan); Spain (ACB, LEB Oro, LEB Plata, EBA); Slovenia (Telemach, Division 2); Slovacchia (Extraliga); Serbia (A, B); Russia (PBL, Superleague); Romania (A League); Portugal (Profissional, Proliga); Polonia (PLK, 1 Liga, 2 Liga); Norway (BLNO, 1 Division); Montenegro (A League); Luxemburg (Diekirch); Lietuva (LKL, NKL); Latvia (LBL Div. 1; Div.2); Israel (Superleague, Leumit); Ireland (Superleague); Iceland (Express, Division 1); Hungary (A Division); Italy (all the divisions); Holland (Eredivisie); Greece (A1, A2, B); Germany (Bundesliga, Pro A, Pro B); Georgia (Superleague); Macedonia (Prva League); France (Pro A, Pro B, NM1); Finland (Korisliiga, 1st Division); Estonia (KML, 1 Liga, 2 Liga); Denmark (Ligaen); Czech Rep. (NBL); Cyprus (Division 1); Croatia (A1); Bulgaria (NBL, Div. A); Bosnia (Division 1); Belgium (Ethias League); Belarus (Premier); Austria (Bundes); Indonesia (NBL); Japan (BJ, JBL); Jordan (Premier); Kazakhstan (Div. 1); Lebanon (Div. A); Philippine (PBA Com, PBA PC); S.Korea (KBL); Taiwan (SBL); United States of America (NBA, IBL, PBL, EBA, UBA).

*crazyhorse database

Raptors big man Andrea Bargnani fully recovered from leg injury - by Eurobasket News

Andrea Bargnani (6'10''-F/C-85) is rested and finally healthy, still bitterly disappointed with how the last Raptor season unfolded and under no illusions about what awaits him this summer.

Work, the 7-foot forward said. Lots of work. Getting better.

Bargnani remains confounded by a season that could have been his best but instead turned into his worst. He was a like a re-born big man at times, aggressive on defence and as effective as usual on offence before losing more than half of the abbreviated season to a series of left calf injuries.

He has been doing rehab and training, getting back to normal in Toronto, since the season ended (Ive been around the city, I have a few friends here, I really enjoy Toronto, he said) and hes back to 100 per cent.

No more treatment to do, he said. Its good to be 100 per cent again so I can start to work this summer.

The enthusiasm in Bargnanis voice is palpable in a short telephone conversation. He talks about almost constant contact with Raptors director sports science Alex McKechnie to keep his training regimen going and a constant dialogue with head coach Dwane Casey.

There is disappointment when Bargnani talks about last season; it dissipates quickly when the conversation switches to next year.

The feelings for last year are the same but I am really positive about next season, I wish we could start tomorrow, he said.

If he can fit it into his schedule and there are a few tugs on his time back in his homeland the Italian hopes to at least make an appearance at a mini-camp the Raptors will hold for free agents in Las Vegas before the teams July appearance at the summer league.

Bargnani, if he goes, will join a host of Raptors veterans who will get some individual workouts in with members of the teams coaching and training staffs, a key component to an off-season program the franchise was robbed of a year ago thanks to the prolonged NBA lockout.

It will be a good leg up on next falls training camp, the first tine Casey will have a full month before the season to work with the team.

It remains to be seen, of course, who might be on that team. Toronto will get an idea of its draft prospects after Wednesdays lottery, general manager Bryan Colangelo could be active in Julys free agent market and trade talks are sure to heat up.

Bargnani isnt about to suggest what kind of specific improvements he wants to see.

Im just glad thats not my job, he said. I dont think about it; everybody has to trust and have confidence in Bryan.

And Colangelo can work some magic this summer like he did on his first year on the job when he added nine new faces and saw the teams win total leap from 27 one year to 47 the next Bargnani can spend next spring doing something more than working out and hanging with friends.

I watch the playoffs, its been a long time and Im always reminded of what it was like, he said. Im reminded every day of what a great feeling that is and I want it again.

Courtesy of www.thestar.com

SerieA Round 1 of Semi-Finals. Montepaschi and Emporio Armani open with wins - by Eurobasket News

Armani Mit - Scavolini PS 84-75

Armani Jeans grabbed a 1-0 lead over Scavolini Pesaro following a home win in the opener. Scavolini Pesaro was trailing by 10 points at halftime but managed to get 1-point lead after three quarters before a 31-21 charge of Armani Milano, which allowed them to win the game. They made 22-of-27 free shots (81.5 percent) during the game. 24 personal fouls committed by Scavolini Pesaro helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American-Montenegrin point guard Omar-Sharif Cook (186-82, college: St.John's, agency: Beo Basket) stepped up and scored 14 points and 6 assists for the winners and American guard Malik Hairston (198-87, college: Oregon) chipped in 16 points and 6 rebounds. Armani Milano's coach Sergio Scariolo used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. At the losing side American guard James White (199-84, college: Cincinnati, agency: Court Side) responded with 18 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists and the other American import forward Jumaine Jones (203-79, college: Georgia) scored 13 points and 8 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Armani Mit: M.Hairston 16+6reb, O.Cook 14+3reb+6ast, E.Bremer 13+2reb+1ast, I.Bourousis 12+4reb, M.Rocca 9+6reb+1ast, A.Fotsis 7+4reb+1ast
Scavolini PS: J.White 18+6reb+4ast, R.Hickman 17+3reb+3ast, D.Hackett 13+1reb+2ast, J.Jones 13+8reb+3ast, T.Lydeka 8+2reb, M.Cusin 6+4reb

Montepaschi - Banco di Sard. 91-68

Montepaschi Siena fired past Sassari in the first game of the semifinal series. The game without a history. Montepaschi Siena 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 Banco di Sard.'s 22. Lithuanian center Ksistof Lavrinovic (210-79) stepped up and scored 19 points and 9 rebounds for the winners and American-FYR Macedonian point guard Bo McCalebb (183-85, college: New Orleans) chipped in 12 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. Four Montepaschi Siena players scored in double figures. At the losing side Bosnian-Serbian power forward Vanja Plisnic (205-80, agency: Beo Basket) responded with 15 points and 7 rebounds and American point guard Travis Diener (184-82, college: Marquette) scored 8 points, 5 rebounds and 7 assists. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games.
Top scorers:
Montepaschi: K.Lavrinovic 19+9reb+2ast, D.Moss 13+8reb+1ast, N.Zisis 13+1reb+3ast, B.McCalebb 12+7reb+4ast, S.Stonerook 8+2reb+2ast, T.Ress 8+5reb+1ast
Banco di Sard.: V.Plisnic 15+7reb, D.Diener 12+3reb+3ast, Q.Hosley 10+7reb+2ast, T.Easley 9+9reb, T.Diener 8+5reb+7ast, M.Vanuzzo 6+2reb

Lega2 Round 3 of Semi-Finals. Enel Brindisi advance into Final - by Eurobasket News

Givova Scafati - Giorgio Tesi PT 87-90

Pistoia celebrated the second win over Givova Scafati to step closer to the Final. The guests started the game with a very strong first quarter 25-16. But Givova Scafati won second period 24-19. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Tuscany Pistoia dominated down low during the game scoring 48 of its points in the paint compared to Givova Scafati's 24. 25 personal fouls committed by Givova Scafati helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was a great evening for American point guard Dwight Hardy (188-87, college: St.John's) who led his team to a victory scoring 25 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals. His fellow American import forward Bobby Jones (201-84, college: Washington) helped adding 25 points and 6 rebounds (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field). The best for the losing side was naturalized Argentinian point guard Marcos Casini (188-80) with 30 points and 5 steals (on 10-of-13 shooting from the field) and the former international swingman Andrea Ghiacci (200-81) scored 18 points. Four Givova Scafati players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Givova Scafati: M.Casini 30+2reb+1ast, A.Ghiacci 18+4reb+2ast, P.Marigney 12+6reb+3ast, G.Sorrentino 11+3reb+1ast, N.Radulovic 5+3reb, M.Levin 5+4reb+1ast
Giorgio Tesi PT: B.Jones 25+6reb+1ast, D.Hardy 25+5reb+4ast, G.Gurini 11+2reb+1ast, J.Tavernari 8+7reb+1ast, L.Saccaggi 8+3reb+2ast, G.Galanda 7+3reb+2ast

Sigma Barcel. - Enel Brindisi 80-86

Enel Brindisi became the first finalists as they claimed the third straight win over Sigma Barcellona. Sigma Barcellona was ahead by 2 points after three quarters before a 21-13 charge of Enel Brindisi, which allowed them to win the game. It was an exceptional evening for American point guard Jonathan Gibson (182-87, college: N.Mexico St.) who led the winners and scored 33 points (!!!) (went 12 for 12 at the free throw line !!!). His fellow American import point guard Alex Renfroe (191-86, college: Belmont) accounted for 14 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists for the winning side. Center Manuele Mocavero (203-80) came up with 16 points and 7 rebounds and forward Matteo Da Ros (204-89) added 15 points and 5 rebounds respectively for Sigma Barcellona in the defeat. Four Sigma Barcellona players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Sigma Barcel.: R.Bucci 18+1ast, M.Lukauskis 16+5reb, M.Mocavero 16+7reb+3ast, M.Da Ros 15+5reb+1ast, M.Green 8+3reb+6ast, J.Curry 5+5reb+3ast
Enel Brindisi: J.Gibson 33+4reb+3ast, C.Callahan 16+5reb, A.Renfroe 14+8reb+4ast, K.Ndoja 7+2reb, M.Giuri 7+5reb+2ast, D.Borovnjak 4+3reb+1ast

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

LATVIA

Latvian B National Team lose two in China - by Eurobasket News

Latvian B National Team suffered back-to-back defeats on their China tour. They first surrendered against USA All-Star selection 72:81. Latvia overcame a two-point deficit after the opening quarter to take a 10-point halftime lead 42:32. Latvia enjoyed a 60:58 advantage with ten minutes remaining but USA All-Star selection turned things around in the fourth quarter and snatched a 9-point victory at the end. Toms Leiteris (210-C-90) produced 14 points for Latvia. Oto Osenieks (203-F-90) added 13 points, while Kristers Zeidaks (203-F-90) finished with 12 in the loss.
Latvia finished their campaign against Netherlands. The Dutch team led throughout the first half taking a 35:33 halftime lead. But Latvia surged ahead 52:50 with ten minutes remaining. The teams went neck and neck throughout the final stanza but Netherlands proved more accurate in the final stages to eke out an 80:77 win. Kristers Zeidaks had 17 points to lead the charge. Zanis Peiners (203-G-90, agency: Interperformances) added 15 points, while Pavels Pastusena (218-C-90, agency: Players Group) delivered 14 points in defeat.

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LEBANON

News from the Off season and the National Team - by Asia-Basket Lebanon

In the latest news about the transaction in the Lebanese Basketball League Coach Fouad Abou Chakra created the biggest surprise by leaving Riyadi after seven successive years , He moved together with his Assistant Dikran Gyokchyan to the Rival; Sagesse , Abou Chakra is reported to have signed a 4 years contract with a target to bring back Sagesse to the Glory Road.
On the other side Riyadi is looking to new coach to fill the gap which was created by the departure of Coach Abou Chakra. Moreover Riyadi Signed the young Lebanese Talent Ahmad Ibrahim who left Rice University Program to sign a pro contract after having a good freshman year, he started many games and had good numbers.
In other rumors about the League , The Champion Champville signed Nadim Souaid the talented scorer from Bejjeh. Sagesse is working to ink Rodrigue Akl together with Elie Rustom and Bassel Bawji.
The offseason started very soon this year and the way the things are going looks like next season will be a very exciting season having many teams competing to win the precious title.

In other news the Lebanese National Team under the commands of Coach Ghassan Sarkis started its preparation for the WABA Championship which will be held in Jordan from 11 to 15 June 2012. The national Team is facing some obstacles with some injures and the late joining of some other players. The Best two classified teams in the WABA will qualify to participate in the FIBA ASIA Cup which will be held in Tokyo - Japan from 14 to 23 September 2012.

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MEXICO

CIBACOPA Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Devon PEARSON
  Los M.
  (198-F-84)
  Avg: 27.7

1. Pearson, Los M.	27.7
2. Reese, Tepic	24.4
3. Scott, Los Mochis	23.4
4. Thomas, Cananea	22.6
5. McCullough, Nogales	22.3
6. Robinson, Culiacan	22.1
7. Alexander, Cananea	21.8
8. Carter, Guasave	20.4
9. Selleaze, Navolato	20.3
10. Wiley, Los Mochis	19.8

Rebounds Per Game

Deangelo RILEY
  Tepic
  (205-C-)
  Avg: 11.2

1. Riley, Tepic	11.2
2. Pearson, Los M.	10.3
3. Alexander, Cananea	10.1
4. Selleaze, Navolato	8.4
5. Scott, Los Mochis	8.2
6. Sanders-F., Nogales	8.2
7. Robinson, Culiacan	7.8
8. Habel, Guaymas	7.6
9. Moore, Navolato	7.6
10. Strobbe, Nogales	7.4

Assists Per Game

William FUNN
  Los Mochis
  (188-G-82)
  Avg: 9.1

1. Funn, Los Mochis	9.1
2. Allen, Guaymas	7.4
3. Taylor, Los Mochis	5.8
4. Monreal, Hermosillo	5.6
5. Harris, Cananea	4.6
6. Nungaray, Guaymas	4.6
7. Riley, Tepic	4.1
8. Pulido, Culiacan	3.9
9. Quintero, Tijuana	3.8
10. Reatiga, Navolato	3.5

Steals Per Game

Brian HAMILTON
  Hermosillo
  (198-F-82)
  Avg: 2.1

1. Hamilton, Hermosil.	2.1
2. George, Nogales	1.8
3. Gibson, Navolato	1.6
4. Riley, Tepic	1.5
5. Monreal, Hermosillo	1.4
6. Thomas, Cananea	1.4
7. Gale, Nogales	1.3
8. Buelna, Guasave	1.3
9. Carter, Guasave	1.3
10. Toussaint, Los M.	1.3

Blocks Per Game

Deangelo RILEY
  Tepic
  (205-C-)
  Avg: 3.5

1. Riley, Tepic	3.5
2. Habel, Guaymas	1.3
3. Zamora, Culiacan	1.3
4. Wiley, Los Mochis	1.0
5. Alexander, Cananea	0.9
6. Young, Tepic	0.9
7. Davis, Nogales	0.8
8. Robinson, Culiacan	0.8
9. Scott, Los Mochis	0.8
10. Tate, Tijuana	0.7

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

NBA

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Kobe BRYANT
  LA Lakers
  (198-G-78)
  Avg: 28.2

1. Bryant, LA Lakers	28.2
2. Durant, Oklah.Ci.	27.9
3. James, Miami Heat	27.5
4. Love, Minnesota T.	26.0
5. Westbrook, Oklah..	23.6
6. Anthony, New Y.	23.1
7. Wade, Miami Heat	22.4
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 Lakers	11.7
4. Cousins, Sacramen.	11.0
5. Humphries, New J.	11.0
6. Gasol, LA Lakers	10.3
7. Griffin, LA Clipp.	10.3
8. Gortat, Phoenix	10.0
9. Smith, Atlanta H.	9.9
10. Chandler, New Y.	9.8

Assists Per Game

Rajon RONDO
  Boston C.
  (185-PG-86)
  Avg: 11.7

1. Rondo, Boston C.	11.7
2. Nash, Phoenix Suns	10.7
3. Paul, LA Clippers	8.9
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 Clippers	2.5
2. Rubio, Minnesot.	2.2
3. Conley, Memphis G.	2.1
4. Rondo, Boston C.	1.9
5. James, Miami Heat	1.9
6. Kidd, Dallas M.	1.8
7. Millsap, Utah Jazz	1.8
8. Allen, Memphis G.	1.7
9. Iguodala, Philadel.	1.7
10. Shumpert, New Y.	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Serge IBAKA
  Oklah.Ci.
  (208-C/F-89)
  Avg: 3.6

1. Ibaka, Oklah.Ci.	3.6
2. McGee, Washingt.	2.5
3. Howard, Orlando M.	2.1
4. Bynum, LA Lakers	2.1
5. Hibbert, Indiana P.	2.1
6. Jordan, LA Clippers	2.0
7. McGee, Denver N.	2.0
8. Gasol, Memphis G.	1.9
9. Biyombo, Charlott.	1.8
10. Udoh, Golde S.	1.7

Chris Bosh's return still uncertain - by Eurobasket News

The Heat's third round of the playoffs picked up where the second left off, with questions about the potential availability of sidelined power forward Chris Bosh (6'11''-F-84, college: Georgia Tech).

Bosh went down in the first half of the first game of the second round against the Indiana Pacers with a lower abdominal strain. He has been listed as out indefinitely since.

However, Bosh took part in some light court work Sunday in front of Heat president Pat Riley, in advance of Monday's Eastern Conference final opener against the Boston Celtics, which the Heat won 93-79 at AmericanAirlines Arena. Game 2 is back on the Heat's home court Wednesday night.

For now, tight-lipped remains the Heat approach, even after acknowledging a Bosh pregame session Monday.

'Not trying to be coy,' coach Erik Spoelstra said. 'He has to heal first, rehab.

'He's been able to do some level of light conditioning and strengthening, that's about it.'

Teammates are respecting Bosh's uncertain timetable.

'He's getting a lot of work in, behind the scenes, and that's all we can ask,' guard Dwyane Wade said. 'So you just ask him how he's feeling. He said he's getting better every day, and that's all you can ask for.'

Spoelstra said he does not want to sound cold but emphasized that he has to coach who he has available.

'For me,' Spoelstra said, 'it's my responsibility right now to prepare this team without him. And if and when it gets to a point where he starts to emerge into the picture, we will gladly deal with that because we're a more dangerous offensive team, more dangerous defensive team when he's in the mix.'

Teammates are hoping Bosh still can be part of this postseason mix.

'Hopefully we continue to take care of business and he can be back in uniform with us,' forward LeBron James said.

But the Heat say they can't allow it to become a waiting game.

'Whenever we get Chris back, it's going to be an added bonus to our team,' Wade said, 'but we can't sit and watch our clocks and wait and see.'

Courtesy of http://sports.yahoo.com

Report: Magic to interview Thunder, Spurs personnel for GM position - by Eurobasket News

The Magic's candidates to take over their vacant GM position in the wake of Otis Smith's departure are improving. Last week it was Shaq. This week, members of two of the best organizations in the NBA. From Yahoo Sports:

Thunder vice president and assistant general manager Troy Weaver and Spurs assistant GM Dennis Lindsey have been targeted, and Orlando has been granted permission to talk with Weaver, sources said. The Spurs' OK of permission for Lindsey is imminent, sources said.

Orlando has also been granted permission to speak with Oklahoma City's assistant GM Rob Hennigan, who came into the league with the Spurs.

via Thunder, Spurs executives among strong candidates for Magic's GM - Yahoo! Sports.

Both organizations have not only won a lot of games, but have drafted well, then developed late first-round and second-round talent. They make the most of what they have. Maybe more importantly, both teams are known as high-character organizations.

This is how you rebuild a team. The only question is if the new GM will be tasked with trading the franchise superstar and how they will go about getting their Tim Duncan/Kevin Durant. That's the real trick.

Courtesy of www.cbssports.com

Tim Duncan declares he's a 'Spur for life' - by Eurobasket News

Two-time league MVP Tim Duncan (6'11''-F/C-76, college: Wake Forest) said he has little interest in testing out the free-agent market once his contract ends after this season with the San Antonio Spurs.

Duncan said he hoped to play another one or two seasons in the NBA and that he wouldn't play for any team other than the Spurs, Yahoo! Sports reported Monday.

'Though I shouldn't say that -- I have to threaten them that I'll leave,' Duncan joked. 'No ... I'm not going anywhere. You can print that wherever you want to. I'm here and I'm a Spur for life.'

The 36-year-old has spent his entire 15-year career with the Spurs, winning four championships and being named NBA Finals MVP three times.

Duncan averaged 15.4 points and nine rebounds this regular season and averaged 17.4 points and 9.2 boards in the postseason, helping the Spurs to the Western Conference Finals, where they hold a 1-0 lead over the Oklahoma City Thunder in the best-of-seven series.

Courtesy of www.myfoxny.com

Report: Stan Van Gundy to take a year off - by Eurobasket News

When Stan Van Gundy was fired as coach of the Magic, it was expected that he would have his pick of openings for where to coach next year. Van Gundy doesn't seem like the vacation type. But apparently he's prepared to take some time anyway. From the New York Daily News:

Even though Charlotte wants to talk to him about its coaching vacancy, Stan Van Gundy is looking to take the year off and then come back to coach in 2013-14.

via Adapting to today's NBA has San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich on cusp of 5th title - NY Daily News.

I'd love to tell you what kind of positions SVG would be looking at in a year, but it's impossible. Often times good teams with rosters have bad years and then these positions open. That would be the best case scenario as SVG may not want to go through the rebuilding process.

He's passing up on likely opportunities or at least interviews in Charlotte and possibly with the Clippers. SVG is highly thought to prefer warm weather cities, and he's out of Florida options. A year in the sun might do him some good anyway, allow him to relax a little.

God knows he has earned it.

Courtesy of www.cbssports.com

Doc Rivers upset with technicals - by Eurobasket News

Boston Celtics coach Doc Rivers , tagged with one of five technical fouls assessed against his team in Monday's Game 1 loss to the Miami Heat, let off some steam during his postgame news conference and could be donating some money to the league for venting.

Rivers earned his technical late in the second quarter for barking about a lack of a foul call after Rajon Rondo converted a driving layup in traffic. Television replays appear to show Rivers simply screaming, 'C'mon, Eddie,' at referee Ed Malloy as the action moves back upcourt. A moment later, Malloy stopped the action and tagged Rivers with the technical.

'I know mine wasn't (deserved). I can tell you that much,' said Rivers, whose team got hit with three individual technicals, a delay of game and an illegal defense call. 'I don't know how long I've been in this league, but that has to rank as the worst I've ever had. I would have loved to earn it.

'We should never get them anyway. I told our guys that. But everybody has to keep their composure. Not just the players and coaches.'

Rivers' technical was the fourth of the night for Boston. This after typically mild-mannered Ray Allen (6'5''-G-75, college: Connecticut) got a technical from referee Danny Crawford with 10:22 to play in the second quarter. A little more than three minutes later, Crawford assessed a technical to Boston for delay of game when Kevin Garnett batted the ball away after a make.

Midway through the third quarter, Malloy gave Rondo the team's final technical for shoving Shane Battier when the two got tangled under the Boston basket with 5:06 to play in the frame.

Asked whether the technical fouls worked against Boston in the first half, Rondo brushed it off. Despite the calls against them, the Celtics erupted for 35 points, their biggest offensive outburst of the postseason.

'We just got (the technicals),' he said. 'I don't know how many we got, but that's just how it was called.'

Courtesy of ESPN

After a return to winning, the 76ers may be in need of an overhaul - by Eurobasket News

Under new management, the 76ers had Philadelphia caring about basketball again.

They had the co-owner Will Smith sitting courtside and playing along to the cameras.

They brought Julius Erving back into the fold. Allen Iverson made a stirring return, too.

But the biggest buzz at last came from the Sixers themselves. No longer mired in mediocrity, Jrue Holiday, Evan Turner, Andre Iguodala (6'6''-G-84, college: Arizona), Louis Williams (6'3''-PG-86), Elton Brand (6'8''-F-79, college: Duke) and Company, carried the team from a 20-9 start into plucky postseason overachievers. Led by Coach Doug Collins, the Sixers posted their first winning record (35-31) since 2004-5, and won a playoff series for the first time since 2003.

The Sixers knocked off the top-seeded, and undermanned, Chicago Bulls in the opening round and stretched the Boston Celtics to Game 7 of the Eastern Conference semifinals. One day after the decisive 10-point loss in Boston, the Sixers consoled themselves knowing that brighter days were finally ahead.

Its great to be an overachiever, Collins said Sunday. But to be a champion, you cant overachieve.

The managing owner, Joshua Harris, and Adam Aron, the chief executive, had great returns in the first year of their investment in the Sixers.

Now comes the hard part turning them into a consistent 50-victory team and championship contender.

This is the big leagues, Harris said. Were going to do what we have to do to make the team better. Whatever it takes are pretty strong words, but were prepared to do what we have to do as ownership, financially or otherwise, to improve the team. We want to win.

To really win big, the Sixers may have to overhaul the roster.

The Sixers believe they are set in the backcourt with Turner and Holiday. The rest of the roster remains in flux.

The potential returns for the veterans Iguodala and Brand are murkier. Iguodala has long been the subject of trade speculation, and the team could look to use the amnesty clause on Brand.

In contrast to last seasons final day, when an unhappy Iguodala skipped his exit interview with management and refused to say he wanted to return to the 76ers, he was all smiles Sunday and optimistic about the organization.

Iguodala, one of the top defenders in the league, is a candidate this summer for the Olympic team. But a solid postseason highlighted by the winning free throws in Game 6 to eliminate the Bulls and one more year, as well as an option on his contract, make him valuable trade bait.

I always prepare to come back and be here, Iguodala said.

He said the fact the Sixers had established themselves as a threat in the East made them more attractive than in previous seasons.

Last summer, I saw what we could do, Iguodala said.

He may have to see what they can do next season without Brand.

Under the right set of circumstances, Harris said, the Sixers would use the amnesty clause, which allows a team to waive one player during the new labor deal and have 100 percent of his salary taken off the cap and the tax.

Brand is due $18 million in the final season of his five-year contract. While he is the locker room leader and the heart of the Sixers, his production never merited the whopping deal he signed as one of the hottest free agents around. He averaged 11 points and 7.2 rebounds this season.

Brand says he understands the organization will do what suits it best, but he does not want to leave.

I want to be here, absolutely, he said, adding that if it was over, I definitely loved my time here.

He played through painful neck and shoulder injuries in the postseason and will have a magnetic resonance imaging test Monday.

Williams, who led Philadelphia in scoring despite not starting a single game this season, was second in the balloting for the N.B.A.s Sixth Man of the Year Award. He can opt out of the final year of a contract that would pay him $6.4 million.

If I was a betting man, I think I would be back, Williams said. Obviously, it comes down to a deal, but I dont think that will be the hard part. This is home for me. I feel wanted here. I hope the feeling is mutual.

Because of the late purchase date and the lockout, the ownership group has yet to make its mark on the roster. The Sixers clearly need more size and production in the frontcourt, another proven scorer or two, and a veteran point guard to mentor Holiday.

The Sixers hold the 15th pick in the draft, and picks 45 and 54 in the second round.

The Sixers hope those players will be a big part of their future.Collins has the team on the verge of breaking through, and he says he intends to be coaching it. He has two years left on his contract and wants to see this process through.

I sure feel better right now, he said, than I did two years ago standing here wondering where this all might head.

Courtesy of www.nytimes.com

Report: Lakers' Pau Gasol wants to play for Chicago Bulls - by Eurobasket News

Los Angeles Lakers forward Pau Gasol (7'0''-F/C-80) would like to play for the Chicago Bulls, Bulls.com's Sam Smith reports. Smith cites Lakers insiders that tell him Gasol wants out of Los Angeles and would like to land in Chicago.

Gasol clashed with Lakers star Kobe Bryant and Lakers management this season, as he put up the worst statistical season of his 11-year NBA career. He finished the season averaging 17.4 points and 10.4 rebounds per game, but he only averaged 12 points on 44 percent shooting in the Lakers second-round playoff loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Keep in mind that the Lakers already traded Gasol once, before the 2011 season started, only to have the deal nixed by NBA commissioner David Stern. Gasol trade rumors also floated around near the trade deadline. That, plus his $19 million salary over the next two seasons, are prime reasons the Lakers want to move him.

The question is whether Chicago will get involved and whether the Bulls are prepared to significantly overhaul their roster after a first-round playoff exit at the hand of the Philadelphia 76ers. Smith ponders whether they would:

That, of course, would be if the Bulls decided to start anew and provide a new and different kind of cast to play with Rose. Its maybe the biggest philosophical question to begin to consider these next few weeks.

Early last week, The Los Angeles Times reported that Gasol got few answers from Lakers General Manager Mitch Kupchak in his exit interview.

I wish I could have clarification but they cant give it to me right now, Gasol told the paper. I think management still has to talk to ownership to see what direction this thing will be going next year.

He did say that if he was back with the Lakers, he hoped for a much more peaceful year.

Courtesy of http://tracking.si.com

Spurs wins to take 2-0 NBA lead on Thunder - by Eurobasket News

Tony Parker (6'0''-PG-82) scored 34 points and the San Antonio Spurs stretched their win streak to 20 games, defeating Oklahoma City 120-111 to seize command of their NBA playoff series.

The Spurs took a 2-0 lead in their best-of-seven Western Conference final and moved halfway toward booking a place against the Eastern Conference winner, either the Miami Heat or Boston Celtics, in next month's NBA Finals.

Oklahoma City will host games three and four against the Spurs on Thursday and Saturday. In NBA history, teams that fall behind 2-0 in a best-of-seven series have recovered to advance less than six percent of the time.

The Spurs, who last lost 48 days ago on April 11 at home to the Los Angeles Lakers, won their final 10 regular-season games and have won their first 10 playoff games.

'It's a good run but we're only worried about getting these next two in a row,' Spurs star Tim Duncan (6'11''-F/C-76, college: Wake Forest) said. 'That would be 22 wins. That would be great.'

San Antonio's streak has broken the NBA record for a combined win streak in playoff and regular-season games, beating the old combined mark of 19 wins in a row by the 2001 Lakers.

French guard Parker hit 16 of 21 shots and contributed eight assists for the Spurs, who have lost only twice in their past 33 games.

'Tony has been great all year,' Spurs coach Gregg Popovich said. 'He was excellent. He played a fantastic game in a lot of ways.'

Argentine playmaker Emanuel Ginobili (6'6''-G-77, agency: Interperformances) scored 20 points and Kawhi Leonard (6'7''-F-91, college: San Diego St.) added 18 points and 10 rebounds for the Spurs, who also had 11 points and 12 rebounds from Duncan as they challenge for a fifth NBA crown in 14 seasons.

Kevin Durant (6'9''-G/F-88, college: Texas) scored 31 points to lead the Thunder while James Harden added 30 and Russell Westbrook contributed 27 in a losing cause.

'If we play hard and play well, we are able to beat this team,' Thunder veteran Derek Fisher said. 'We have to continue to be physical on the defensive end. We're doing a great job at times but it can't just be 'at times'.

'We've put ourselves in this position where we have to go home and win game three and get back in this series.'

The Thunder trimmed a 22-point Spurs lead to only 99-93 with 5min 25sec remaining before the Spurs found their shooting touch to finish off the victory, but not before Popovich screamed at Parker to regain his focus.

'We were playing sloppy and OKC came back on us,' Parker said. 'He wanted to make sure I stay in place so we didn't let them come back.

'They messed up our rhythm a little bit. We came out flat in the fourth quarter but we came back at the end to win it. They are a very tough team. They won't quit. We can't stop playing.'

Only three other teams in NBA history have won 20 or more in a row, all of those runs coming exclusively in regular-season games.

The Lakers set the NBA record with a 33-game win streak in 1971-72 while the Houston Rockets ran off 22 in a row in 2008 and the Milwaukee Bucks won 20 in a row in 1971.

The Spurs, who never trailed, hit 54 percent of their shots from the field to only 21 percent by the Thunder.

'They were making shots. They were spraying them from all over the floor,' Thunder coach Scott Brooks said. 'Ginobili made a lot of tough shots. Parker was on fire.'

The Spurs, leading 55-44 at half-time, made their first five shots of the second half for a 68-52 advantage and ran the margin as large as 80-58 before the Thunder went on an 8-0 spurt, serving notice the visitors had not given up.

'We just can't get down by that many points,' Harden said. 'We were a little more aggressive. We just have to play hard every possession. We just have to change things up and come back more desperate in game three.'

San Antonio held off Oklahoma City, taking a 92-76 edge into the fourth quarter, but the Thunder opened the last period with a 13-5 run sparked by pressuring defense that caused the Spurs to miss 12 of 15 shots in a key span.

'We got down 22 points. That's not good,' Brooks said. 'But we still came back and fought.'

Oklahoma City pulled within six with 5:25 remaining but San Antonio scored eight of the next 11 points, Parker capping the run with a jumper for a 107-96 Spurs lead with 3:39 remaining.

Fisher sank a three-pointer and Durant slammed down a fast-break dunk to pull Oklahoma City within 112-105.

But Ginobili hit a three-pointer and Parker answered a Westbrook driving layup with one of his own for a 117-107 Spurs lead with only 33 seconds remaining.

'We were able to hold on and make enough plays down the stretch and it was a good win,' Duncan said.

Courtesy of AFP

Magic part ways with Wafer. - by Bryan Floyd

NBA journey man Von Wafer (6'5''-G-85, college: Florida St.) has been released from the Magic. He fought for playing time this season out in Orlando and will be looking to catch on with another team before next season. Wafer averaged right around 6 points a game over 33 games this season. In the right situation Wafer could be a decent asset to have coming off of the bench. A return to the Lakers could be in the cards since they will need to change their bench dramatically this offseason.

Clippers keep Del Negro - by Eurobasket News

The Los Angeles Clippers exercised the contract option for head coach Vinny Del Negro on Tuesday, keeping him behind the bench for the 2012-13 season.

Per club policy, no terms were announced.

The Clips finished 40-26, good enough for second place in the Pacific Division but were swept in the second round in a four-game series by the San Antonio Spurs. LA beat Memphis in seven games in the first round.

Del Negro spearheaded a significant improvement from his first year at the helm, in which the Clippers went 32-50 and finished fourth in the Pacific.

The 45-year-old Massachusetts native, who played 14 NBA seasons from 1988-2002, holds a 154-158 overall mark in four years as a head coach -- two with both the Bulls and Clippers.

Courtesy of www.torontosun.com

Raptors big man Andrea Bargnani fully recovered from leg injury - by Eurobasket News

Andrea Bargnani (6'10''-F/C-85) is rested and finally healthy, still bitterly disappointed with how the last Raptor season unfolded and under no illusions about what awaits him this summer.

Work, the 7-foot forward said. Lots of work. Getting better.

Bargnani remains confounded by a season that could have been his best but instead turned into his worst. He was a like a re-born big man at times, aggressive on defence and as effective as usual on offence before losing more than half of the abbreviated season to a series of left calf injuries.

He has been doing rehab and training, getting back to normal in Toronto, since the season ended (Ive been around the city, I have a few friends here, I really enjoy Toronto, he said) and hes back to 100 per cent.

No more treatment to do, he said. Its good to be 100 per cent again so I can start to work this summer.

The enthusiasm in Bargnanis voice is palpable in a short telephone conversation. He talks about almost constant contact with Raptors director sports science Alex McKechnie to keep his training regimen going and a constant dialogue with head coach Dwane Casey.

There is disappointment when Bargnani talks about last season; it dissipates quickly when the conversation switches to next year.

The feelings for last year are the same but I am really positive about next season, I wish we could start tomorrow, he said.

If he can fit it into his schedule and there are a few tugs on his time back in his homeland the Italian hopes to at least make an appearance at a mini-camp the Raptors will hold for free agents in Las Vegas before the teams July appearance at the summer league.

Bargnani, if he goes, will join a host of Raptors veterans who will get some individual workouts in with members of the teams coaching and training staffs, a key component to an off-season program the franchise was robbed of a year ago thanks to the prolonged NBA lockout.

It will be a good leg up on next falls training camp, the first tine Casey will have a full month before the season to work with the team.

It remains to be seen, of course, who might be on that team. Toronto will get an idea of its draft prospects after Wednesdays lottery, general manager Bryan Colangelo could be active in Julys free agent market and trade talks are sure to heat up.

Bargnani isnt about to suggest what kind of specific improvements he wants to see.

Im just glad thats not my job, he said. I dont think about it; everybody has to trust and have confidence in Bryan.

And Colangelo can work some magic this summer like he did on his first year on the job when he added nine new faces and saw the teams win total leap from 27 one year to 47 the next Bargnani can spend next spring doing something more than working out and hanging with friends.

I watch the playoffs, its been a long time and Im always reminded of what it was like, he said. Im reminded every day of what a great feeling that is and I want it again.

Courtesy of www.thestar.com

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

NCAA1

Michigan State eager to return to Carrier Classic - by Eurobasket News

So long as college basketball's powers-that-be don't overthink the thing and get hellbent on inadvertently screwing it up, the early November game on the aircraft carrier should become a staple of the start of the sport's season each year.

You'll remember North Carolina and Michigan State inaugurating the Carrier Classic event last year on Veteran's Day. It was really different, but really cool and beautiful. Because of the military backdrop and presidential cameo, it was beyond gimmick. This November, UConn and a to-be-named opponent get the honors on East Coast waters. But Michigan State wants back in next season, in 2013, and with recently named Athletic Director of the Year Mark Hollis working behind the scenes, you'd think Sparty's chances are pretty good.

Hollis vocalized his desire to get the game again recently with MLive.com's Diamond Leung:

'There is nothing solidified,' Hollis said Thursday. 'We're looking at the possibility of something in '13 in Florida. It's difficult to tie one of those billion-dollar warships down two years in advance, but if we did so, we'd want to take it to Florida.'

Morale Entertainment Foundation executive director Mike Whalen, the Carrier Classic's event organizer, said in February that Naval Station Mayport in Jacksonville was one of the potential sites for this year's game.

Hollis said there was no set opponent in 2013, but threw out the idea of playing Notre Dame for the second time in as many weeks.

'We haven't played Notre Dame since 1979,' Hollis said. 'That'd be fun.'We'll have to see if Notre Dame proves a worthy draw. Bluntly, they don't seem like it to me, but the game is such a broad scope that the teams involved aren't necessarily critical to the game's 'success' or watchability. You want high-level programs getting in this game to give it as much juice as possible, sure, but the backdrop itself is stunning and unlike anything college basketball's done before. With it being a once-a-year thing, I don't see how the novelty wears off.

The motive for Michigan State and Hollis to get back in this game also stems from the stymie in getting an early season game to happen in Greece. Hollis is clearly trying to set up Michigan State as the most well-marketed college hoops program outside of maybe Kentucky. This kind of strategy with Michigan State goes all the way back to the Basketbowl game against Kentucky at Ford Field nine years ago.

Courtesy of www.cbssports.com

Weber State bolsters backcourt - by Eurobasket News

The Wildcats are loading up in the backcourt.

Weber State men's basketball coach Randy Rahe announced on Friday the signing of three players to letters of intent to join the Wildcat basketball program. Wayne Bradford, Royce Williams and Abdulsamad (Duce) Zaid have all committed to come to Weber State beginning in the 2012-13 season.

'We are very excited for all three of these players to join us and they will fit right in with what we have here,' Rahe said. 'All three are high character people and good students. They will bring some athleticism to our team and all have a team first attitude.'

Bradford is a 6-foot-3 guard who comes to Weber State after one season at Sheridan (Wyo.) Community College and will be a sophomore with the 'Cats next season. In his one season at Sheridan he averaged 11.2 points and 1.4 assists per game. He shot 49 percent from the field, including 41 percent from 3-point range. He also finished first in the nation in junior college in free throw percentage at 90.8 percent.

Bradford, originally from Baltimore, Md., attended Roanoke (Va.) Catholic High School., where he played for Bill Hodges, a former head coach at Indiana State. As a senior, Bradford averaged 17 points and 4.5 assists per game. His best game came against powerhouse Oak Hill Academy, where he scored 27 points and had six assists.

Williams is a 6-5 forward from Los Angeles, who joins Weber State after one season at the New Mexico Military Institute and will have three years with WSU. This past season he averaged 11.7 points and 6.4 rebounds per game while shooting 48 percent from the field. Williams played at Hamilton High School in Los Angeles.

Zaid is a 6-2 guard from Los Angeles. He will be a junior with the Wildcats this season after playing two years of JC basketball.

In 2010-11 at Arizona Western CC, he averaged 6.7 points, 2.3 rebounds and 1.6 assists per game. This past season at Barstow (Calif.) Community College and led the team in scoring at 17.4 points per game. Zaid attended Crenshaw High School in Los Angeles.

In November, Weber State signed Joel Bolomboy and Kyndahl Hill from Texas who will both be freshmen with the Wildcats this season.

Courtesy of www.standard.net

Former Indiana coach Lou Watson, predecessor to Bob Knight, dies at 88 - by Eurobasket News

Former Indiana coach and player Lou Watson has died at the age of 88.

Scott Funeral Home in Jeffersonville, where Watson will be buried, said he died Thursday in Fairfax, Va.

Watson played for the Hoosiers from 1947-50, becoming its leading scorer at the time, and was first-team All-Big Ten in 1950. He was Indianas head coach from 1966-71, guiding the Hoosiers to a Big Ten co-championship in 1967, and finishing with a 62-60 record. He became a special assistant to the athletic director in 1971, when Indiana hired Bob Knight as coach.

Watson retired in 1987.

Courtesy of www.washingtonpost.com

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

NEW ZEALAND

Standings Men

NBL Standings

1. Bay Hawks		13-3
2. Auckland P.		13-3
3. Hub Jets		10-6
4. Wellington S.		9-7
5. Taranaki MA		7-9
6. Nelson G.		6-10
7. OceanaGold N.		6-10
8. Southland S.		5-11
9. Harbour H.		3-13

Finals: Round 1

May. 27: Auckland P. - Wellington S. 89-83

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Josh PACE
  Hub Jets
  (198-G/F-83)
  Avg: 23.1

1. Pace, Hub Jets	23.1
2. Pace, Hub Jets	22.8
3. Wright, OceanaGo.	22.4
4. Tisby, OceanaGo.	22.0
5. Leasure, Taranaki.	21.3
6. Hudson, Taranaki.	20.9
7. Jones, Nelson G.	20.9
8. Braswell, Southlan.	20.6
9. Abney, Southland	19.6
10. Horvath, Hub Jets	19.5

Rebounds Per Game

Nick HORVATH
  Hub Jets
  (208-F/C-81)
  Avg: 15.8

1. Horvath, Hub Jets	15.8
2. Horvath, Hub Jets	15.8
3. Tisby, OceanaGo.	12.1
4. Abney, Southland	10.3
5. Atkinson, Harbo.	10.2
6. Wright, OceanaGo.	9.3
7. Frank, Wellington	8.7
8. Johnson, Bay Hawks	8.3
9. Harrison, Nelson G.	8.0
10. Muhammad, Auckla.	7.9

Assists Per Game

Jason CROWE
  Wellington S.
  (193-G-76)
  Avg: 8.7

1. Crowe, Wellington	8.7
2. Tait, Auckland P.	7.4
3. Braswell, Southlan.	5.1
4. Jones, Nelson G.	5.0
5. Wright, OceanaGo.	4.6
6. Kenny, Bay Hawks	4.4
7. Bailey, Harbour H.	3.9
8. Pace, Hub Jets	3.8
9. Hudson, Taranaki.	3.8
10. Pace, Hub Jets	3.7

Steals Per Game

Kevin BRASWELL
  Southlan.
  (188-G-79)
  Avg: 3

1. Braswell, Southlan.	3.0
2. Crowe, Wellington	2.8
3. Wright, OceanaGo.	2.2
4. Bailey, Harbour H.	2.1
5. Leasure, Taranaki.	2.0
6. Tait, Auckland P.	1.7
7. Muhammad, Aucklan.	1.6
8. Ross, OceanaGold	1.6
9. Pace, Hub Jets	1.5
10. Abney, Southland	1.4

Blocks Per Game

Michael HARRISON
  Nelson G.
  (206-F/C-84)
  Avg: 2.1

1. Harrison, Nelson G.	2.1
2. Tisby, OceanaGo.	1.6
3. Atkinson, Harbo.	1.3
4. Trousdell, Wellin.	1.3
5. Wright, OceanaGo.	1.2
6. Abney, Southland	1.0
7. Muhammad, Aucklan.	1.0
8. Scott, Wellington	1.0
9. Prewster, Southlan.	0.7
10. Frank, Wellington	0.7

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

PHILIPPINES

Asean Basketball League Playoffs Roundup: May 26-27, 2012 - by Enzo Flojo

INDONESIA WARRIORS over AIRASIA PHILIPPINE PATRIOTS, 73-64
The Indonesia Warriors were forced to play without their top scorer, Evan Brock, for 33, but refused to back down as they defeated the second-seeded Air Asia Philippine Patriots 73-64 at the Ynares Sports Arena to steal game 1 in their playoff series.

Brock left the game after playing superbly for the first seven minutes. He had 8 points and 9 rebounds before he sustained what appeared to be a groin injury and was forced to get off the court to seek treatment. Brock stayed in the locker room until halftime and sat back on the Warriors bench in the third quarter however Warriors coach Todd Purves decided not to put him back into the game.

The Patriots leading scorer, Anthony Johnson, also went down at the end of the game after grabbing a rebound and had to be carried off the court with what appeared to be an ankle injury.
With the absence of Brock, Stanley Pringle stepped up and scored 23 points including 5 crucial points in the last four minutes of the game. Warriors big man Steven Thomas recorded a big double-double with 17 points and 19 rebounds for the Warriors.

The Patriots had a miserable shooting day as they finished with only 27% shooting. Johnson finished with 21 points while Vergara had 12 points for the Patriots. Last years best import, Nakiea Miller, had a very tough shooting day. Miller missed 18 of his 21 attempts. It will be interesting to see how Miller, who finished with 9 points and 14 rebounds, will respond in Game 2.

Game 2 of the playoff series between the AirAsia Philippine Patriots and the Indonesia Warriors will tip off on Sunday June 3 at the Britama Arena in Jakarta, Indonesia.

INW 73 Pringle 23, Thomas 17, Brock 8, Prihantono 6, Salangsang 5, Wuysang 4, Canada 4, Gunawan 4, Sitepu 2
APP 64 Johnson 21, Vergara 12, Miller 9, Fernandez 8, Ramos 6, Adriano 4, Saldua 2 Larong 2
QS: 24-11. 44-23, 58-52, 73-64

SAN MIGUEL BEERMEN over WESTPORTS MALAYSIA DRAGONS, 111-104 (OT)
The hype for the playoff series between the first-seeded San Miguel Beermen and fourth-ranked Westports Malaysia Dragons exceeded all expectations. It was a nail-biting game where both teams kept exchanging leads and made big play after big play to find them tied at 95-all at the end of the fourth quarter.

In the end, however, the home team executed better in overtime and survived with the 111-104 win. Nick Fazekas led the Beermen with 32 points while Duke Crews added 25 points and 11 rebounds. SMBs Fil-Italian guard, Chris Banchero, had his best game so far in the AirAsia ABL wtih 18 points, 15 assists and 6 steals as the Beermen who scored 74 points in the paint.

The Beermen overcame a huge game from the Dragons Brian Williams, who almost recorded a triple-double. Williams finished with 32 points, 15 rebounds and 9 assists.

Banchero was very pleased with his team winning the first game in the series, which was played at Olivarez Gym in Paranaque City.

We knew going into the series it will be a very tough series. Im glad we came out with a win today, said Banchero.

Despite the win, Beermens coach Parks wants his team to improve defensively in game 2.

We can do a lot better in defense, but I like the character of my team today, said coach Parks after the game.

Patrick Cabahug had a huge game for the Dragons with 24 points, but he was held scoreless in the overtime. The leagues leading scorer, Tiras Wade, did not have his best shooting night as he finished with 23 points on 8-of-21 shooting. Nic Belasco added a double-double with 11 points and 12 rebounds

The Dragons will look to regroup in game 2, which will be held on their homecourt, MABA Stadium in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on Saturday the June 2, 2012.

SMB 111 Fazekas 32, Crews 25, Banchero 18, Avenido 17, Fajardo 11, Yap 6, Gonzales 2
WMD 104 Williams 32, Cabahug 24, Wade 23, Belasco 11, Batumalai 6, Pacana 5, Kuppusamy 3
QS: 20-29, 49-55, 75-75, 95-95, 111-104

AirAsia ABL Announces Nominees for Season 3 Player Awards
The AirAsia ASEAN Basketball League has just announced the nominees for this seasons MVP awards, the winners of which will be announced in the first week of June after which the awards will be presented during the ABLs Championship Dinner scheduled for July 2012.

Over the past seasons, Most Valuable Player awards have been given out in the categories of regular season import, regular season local player and best player during the playoffs/finals. This season however, two new categories have been added for the Regular Season Defensive Player of the year and the Regular Season Coach of the Year.

The MVP nominees are selected based on their performance throughout the regular season by their stats and total efficiency ratings. Their overall conduct in their games is also put into consideration. Candidates are also required to have participated in at least 16 games within the regular season.

Best Defensive Player of the Year nominees are, of course, determined by their individual average rebounds, blocks, steals and how many points on average are scored against them.

The winners will be determined via peer voting where each teams Head Coach will be given one vote for each category. The votes will then be tallied and the nominee with the most votes will receive the award.

This years award nominees are:-

Regular Season Import player MVP
Anthony Johnson AirAsia Philippine Patriots
Tiras Wade Westports Malaysia Dragons
Jonathan Jones Saigon Heat

Regular Season Local player MVP
Leonez Avenido San Miguel Beermen
Mario Wuysang Indonesia Warriors
Al Vergara AirAsia Philippine Patriots

Regular Season Defensive Player of the Year:
Steven Thomas Indonesia Warriors
Nakiea Miller AirAsia Philippine Patriots
Louis Graham Jobstreet.com Singapore Slingers

Last years winners include this years nominee for the Regular Season Defensive Player of the Year Nakiea Miller, who won the Regular Seasons Best Import award for his role with the Dragons as well as Mario Wuysang, last years winner who is once again nominated for Regular Season Local Player MVP. The Slammers Attaporn Leitmalaiporn, who is currently still the only player in the ABL who has two awards under his belt (ABL League MVP in Season 1 and ABL Playoffs MVP in Season 2), misses out in this seasons nominations.

ABL Addresses Allegations of Biased Officiating
The AirAsia ASEAN Basketball League stands by its officials and the decisions made following public allegations of biased refereeing after last weekends first games in the playoff series which were held in the Philippines.

Westports Malaysia Dragons Coach Ariel Vanguardia has come out recently to the media alleging that the ABLs subpar officiating was a factor in their loss against the San Miguel Beermen last Saturday when the teams met in the first game of their playoff series. He also alleged that the league was intimidated by the Beermen and giving them unfair treatment.

In response, ASEAN Basketball League Chief Executive Officer Mr. Kuhan Foo stated, Ariel Vanguardias accusations of the ABL being sympathetic to the San Miguel Beermen is the silliest thing to come out from an individual who claims to be a professional. He accused the league of conspiracy, especially after a hard fought loss, and we hope Coach Ariel will look back on and take stock of his emotional comments.

On the issue of subpar officiating, Mr. Foo stated, All the ABL teams know that we have to work within the limitations of the referees provided to us by FIBA Asia and that as the only professional basketball league in the region there is a lack of professional referees who are used to the very high level of competition that is experienced in the ABL. Also the sheer speed and physicality of the games make for a challenging day out for officials.

We will admit that the level of officiating is not up to the mark yet but overall the standards are consistent. All teams have benefited from good and bad calls throughout the season. This is something that all the ABL teams have previously acknowledged. The game between the Westports Malaysia Dragons and the San Miguel Beermen last Saturday was no different.

The positives that the ABL has brought to the game of basketball in the ASEAN region which include increased player skills, speed, technical and tactical abilities has in a way highlighted that we must also assist in the development of the officials, who are a key component in the game and who endure constant criticism in a very, very challenging and thankless role. The ABL is seeking to work with FIBA Asia to work out if we can assist to give more exposure to the officials and we will have these programs in place by next season.

Emotional outbursts are understandable after losses but overall we would like to see all teams and their representatives act as professionals. The ABL has grown by leaps and bounds with the positive feedback provided by teams, owners and our fans. Were breaking incredible new ground every year, pushing the boundaries where sports has not gone before in South East Asia and were more interested in tackling issues positively that will allow us to grow more rapidly in the years to come.

Coach Ariel Vanguardia will be asked to explain his accusations and to provide proof to back up his claims, failing which he could be looking at a fine of up to USD5,000 for his comments.

This follows notification of fines served by the league just yesterday to both Coach Ariel as well as Dragons team owner Ruben Gnanalingam who were both found guilty of making public prejudicial statements and allegations concerning the league via their respective social media accounts over the weekend.

*Game Recaps compiled and compressed from AseanBasketballLeague.com

2012 PBA Governors Cup Roundup: May 25-27, 2012 - by Enzo Flojo

BARAKO BULL ENERGY over POWERADE TIGERS, 106-101
When an exhausted Jamine Peterson couldnt finish what he started for Barako Bull, veterans Danny Seigle and Don Allado found the spring in their feet and gamely came to the rescue.

Seigle had eight points in the third and Allado all of his nine in the fourth as the Energy turned back the Powerade Tigers, 106-101, Friday night in the PBA Governors Cup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Peterson lit up the Big Dome in the first half, firing 27 points and hauling down 18 rebounds numbers that would have sufficed for an import playing 48 minutes.

But he was left drained by the single-handed effort, which included four three-point shots, and developed cramps that forced him on the bench for most of the third quarter when the Tigers roared back.

Seigle then stepped into the void, holding Powerade at bay before Allado took over in the last 12 minutes, going 3 for 6 from the field after missing all three of his attempts in the first three quarters.

Peterson would finish with conference-high figures of 33 points and 22 rebounds, while Seigle added 14 and Sunday Salvacion, playing his first game for the Energy in two conferences because of an injury, had 11, including a three-point shot late in the game that thwarted the Tigers comeback.

Powerade, losing Finalist to Talk N Text in the Philippine Cup, absorbed its second loss, a situation that might prompt head coach Bo Perasol to bring in a replacement for Rashad McCants, who had 23 points, with five triples, and 10 rebounds.

Though McCants numbers were not bad, the big hole left by the departure of Marcio Lassiter for Petron Blaze, might cost him his job. Gary David led Powerade with 25 points but was 2 of 8 from 3-point range, while Rabeh Al-Hussaini, who was part of the Lassiter trade, added 17.

BAR 106 Peterson 33, Seigle 14, Salvacion 11, Miller 9, Allado 9, Sharma 8, Tubid 7,
Kramer 5, Najorda 4, Weinstein 3, Arboleda 3, Cruz 0.
POW 101 David 25, Mc Cants 23, Al-Hussaini 17, Anthony 13, Casio 10, Salvador 9, Lingganay 2, Tugade 2, Vanlandingham 0, Allera 0, Calimag 0, Adducul 0.
QS: 27-24, 50-49, 76-74, 106-101

RAIN OR SHINE ELASTO-PAINTERS over B-MEG LLAMADOS, 100-94
Before a good Friday crowd at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, Jamelle Cornley, Beau Belga and Gabe Norwood made clutch plays in the extension play as they topped the Llamados, 100-94, for the early solo lead in the season-ending tourney.

Norwood pumped in a three-pointer for the go-ahead basket then Belga and Cornely had their own key plays to clinch Rain or Shines second win following a triumphant debut versus the Alaska Milk Aces Sunday.

Ryan Arana was their biggest savior in regulation play with the former La Salle Archer coming through with a decisive five-point binge in the homestretch to send the game into OT.

Cornley was a huge presence throughout, delivering 25 points, 11 rebounds, two assists and one steal.

As in their game versus the Aces, the Elasto Painters got past the Llamados with a well-balanced game.

Paul Lee, Jervy Cruz, Belga and Norwood also put in double-digit outputs with Jeff Chan, Arana and JR Quinahan adding at least seven points each.

B-Megs Marcus Blakely wound up with 28 points, 16 rebounds, five steals, four assists and three blocks against four errors in his first game in the local pro league

ROS 100 - Cornely 25, Lee 17, Cruz 15, Belga 11, Norwood 10, Chan 8, Arana 7, Quinahan 7, Matias 0, Tang 0, Buenafe 0, Ibanes 0.
BML 94 - Blakely 28, De Ocampo 17, Yap 14, Simon 13, Reavis 7, Villanueva 6, Urbiztondo 4, Intal 4, Gaco 1, Barroca 0, Burtscher 0, Bono 0.
QS: 26-19, 42-40, 58-56, 88-88, 100-94

PETRON BLAZE BOOSTERS over MERALCO BOLTS, 101-88
Petron Blaze is back playing with a high-octane game after a faltering showing in
the last conference. Making good use of their retooled lineup, the Boosters are now on a 2-0 roll in the PBA Governors Cup, and coach Ato Agustin said they intend to get going.

As in their triumphant 97-83 tournament debut against Powerade Sunday, the Boosters showcased an impressive balanced game, slowly pulling away in the final half.

Agustin made special mention of Jay Washington who picked up a good rhythm in his second game from his return from a foot injury.

The two teams were engaged in a battle marked by 11 deadlocks and nine lead changes before Washington came through with decisive plays fuelling a run that shoved Petron ahead, 72-64, going into the payoff period.

The Boosters went unrelenting to the finish with Edward Basden, Alex Cabagnot, Arwind Santos and Denok Miranda also providing a push.

Washington wound up with 19 points, nine rebounds, three steals and one steal in 25 minutes of action while Basden ended up with 24 points, 10 rebounds, five assists, three steals and two blocks in 44 minutes of play.

Champ Oguchi made 24 points for Meralco with Asi Taulava and Sol Mercado chipping in 19 and 17 respectively.

The Bolts could have made the game close if not for eight missed free throws in the fourth quarter. They wound up with a poor 17-of-30 shooting from the line.

PET 101 - Basden 24, Washington 19, Cabagnot 16, Santos 12, Miranda 11, Lutz 7, Yeo 7, Lanete 3, Ildefonso 2, Reyes 0, Pena 0.
MER 88 - Oguchi 24, Taulava 19, Mercado 17, Cardona 8, Ross 7, Hugnatan 7, Artadi 4, Reyes 2, Macapagal 0.
QS: 20-22, 42-42, 72-64, 101-88

AIR21 EXPRESS over TALK N TEXT TROPANG TEXTERS, 97-86
Zach Graham sizzled with a conference-best 38 points and the rest of the team helped as the Express pummeled the injury-hit Talk n Text side for a 97-86 win in the PBA Governors Cup at the Ynares Sports Center here Saturday night.

The Texters continued to struggle with injuries to several players, and the Express took advantage of things, bouncing back from a losing tournament debut versus the Barangay Ginebra Kings Wednesday.

Talk n Text became the very first team beaten by Air21 twice.

And with its earlier loss to Meralco, Talk n Text is now 0-2 in the season-ending conference. Its the first time in three years that the Smart-PLDT franchise got to such losing start in a tourney.

Jimmy Alapag, Kelly Williams and Ryan Reyes plunged back into action but the Texters still failed to avoid suffering a first back-to-back defeats since falling 1-3 in their semifinals series versus Petron Blaze in the last Philippine Cup.

Graham did the biggest damage on Talk n Text as he went 12-of-36 from the field and 13-of-15 from the stripe to top the 33-point performance of Barako Bull import Jamelle Peterson Friday against B-Meg.

The Air21 reinforcement also hauled down 15 rebounds, took two steals and dished out an assist in 43 minutes of action.

Mark Isip and Elmer Espiritu were among the locals who stepped up for Air21 against Talk n Text. Both came through with double-double numbers with Isip getting 17 points and 10 rebounds and Espiritu piling up 14 markers and 10 boards.

Paul Harris collected 30 points and 17 rebounds but couldnt do everything for the Texters. To his frustration, Talk n Text coach Chot Reyes, at one point, slammed his board on the floor while in a huddle with his team.

A21 97 - Graham 38, Isip 17, Espiritu 14, Omolon 8, Ritualo 8, Sena 4, Jazul 4, Faundo 2, Hubalde 2, Bagatsing 0, Sison 0.
TNT 86 - Harris 30, Reyes 12, Dillinger 11, De Ocampo 9, Alapag 9, Fonacier 6, Williams 4, Raymundo 2, Aguilar 2, Gamalinda 1, Aban 0.
QS: 31-26, 54-43, 78-66, 97-86

ALASKA ACES over BARAKO BULL ENERGY, 104-84
Alaska didn't have to wait that long to score that breakthrough win under interim head coach Luigi Trillo.

The Aces handily drubbed Barako Bull 104-84 Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum for their first win in the PBA Governors Cup and for Trillo in the league.

Jason Forte went berserk in the second half with 24 of his game-high 29 points while LA Tenorio, Gabby Espinas and Cyrus Baguio gave significant contributions in Alaska's rebound from a 100-107 loss to Rain or Shine on opening day last Sunday.

For Trillo, who took over from Joel Banal just after the Commissioner's Cup, it was a matter of his team sticking to the basics at this point.

Trillo, who served as one of Tim Cone's assistants for close to 13 years and Banal's chief aide, was just glad he didn't take as long as Banal to break into the win-column. Banal took six games before realizing his first win at the helm of the Uytengsu franchise.

The early fruits were clearly visible, especially during the last 15 minutes of the game when Alaska pulled away for good.

Despite a listless start Barako hung tough, took a brief taste of the lead and was tantalizingly within 61-66, with still 2:48 left in the third period. Then Mac Baracael sparked a 10-2 run to end the period and Baguio started the fourth with back-to-back baskets before Forte, Tenorio, Espinas and the comebacking Tony dela Cruz presided in a
mighty surge from an 80-70 count.

Barako Bull, which prevailed in their quarterfinals matchup to relegate Alaska into fifth place in the mid-season tourney, failed to follow up its 106-101 win over Powerade last Friday, the 19 points and seven boards by Jamine Peterson notwithstanding.

As a result, Barako is now at joint fourth-running spot with its conqueror, Meralco and Air21.

Tenorio had 21 points, six rebounds and as many assists with Espinas winding up with 18 points and Baguio 14.

ALA 104 - Forte 29, Tenorio 21, Espinas 18, Baguio 14, Baracael 8, Thoss 6, Dela Cruz 4, Custodio 2, Gelig 2, Eman 0, Gonzales 0, Sotto 0.
BAR 84 - Peterson 19, Seigle 15, Miller 14, Najorda 9, Allado 7, Arboleda 6, Sharma 4, Tubid 3, Salvacion 3, Kramer 2, Cruz 2, Cervantes 0.
QS: 20-12, 42-36, 76-63, 104-84

B-MEG LLAMADOS over BGY. GINEBRA KINGS, 96-88
Yancy de Ocampo is not shying away from the challenge, just taking advantage of the opportunity coming his way. The 6-foot-8 center was productive for the second straight game, helping B-Meg notch its first win in the PBA Governors Cup with a 96-88 whipping of Barangay Ginebra at the Smart Araneta Coliseum Sunday night.

As a whole, the B-Meg locals outplayed their Ginebra counterparts, overcoming Marcus Blakelys 3-of-15 free throws and measly 13-point output. PJ Simon top scored with 21 points with James Yap, De Ocampo and JC Intal also putting in double-digit outputs as B-Meg kept its domination of Ginebra.

The Llamados made the Commissioners Cup finals and went on to win the crown after beating out the Kings, 3-1, in their semis showdown. B-Meg pulled yet another one against Ginebra though playing short-handed minus Devance and Pingris.

De Ocampo covered well for their absence, going 6-of-9 from the field and 4-of-5 from the stripe while also getting eight rebounds and two assists against one error in 25 minutes of play.

Blakely bled for his points but helped with 17 rebounds, five assists, two blocks and one steal.

Cedric Bozeman led all scorers with 30 points with Kerby Raymundo chipping in 20. Mark Caguioa, returning from an injury with a flourish versus the Express, was held down to eight points by the Llamados.

BML 96 - Simon 21, Yap 18, De Ocampo 16, Blakely 13, Intal 10, Villanueva 6, Reavis 6, Barroca 4, Urbiztondo 2, Gaco 0.
BGK 88 - Bozeman 30, Raymundo 20, Caguioa 8, Maliksi 7, Canaleta 7, Cortez 6, Hatfield 6, Villanueva 4, Wilson J. 0, Wilson W. 0.
QS: 24-22, 51-39, 72-66, 96-88

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

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

POLAND

DBE Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Walter HODGE
  Zastal ZG
  (183-PG-86)
  Avg: 19.4

1. Hodge, Zastal ZG	19.4
2. Corbett, Siarka J.	16.1
3. Miller, Siarka J.	15.9
4. Kulig, PBG Basket	15.7
5. Micic, PBG Basket	15.7
6. Motiejunas, Asseco	15.6
7. Burrell, Energa C.	15.6
8. Dylewicz, Trefl So.	15.6
9. Koszarek, Trefl S.	15.4
10. Weeden, Polpharma	15.4

Rebounds Per Game

Darrell HARRIS
  Kotwica
  (208-F/C-84)
  Avg: 11.6

1. Harris, Kotwica	11.6
2. Lawal, Zastal ZG	10.2
3. Hrycaniuk, Asseco	8.9
4. Dluski, LKS Lodz	8.1
5. Archibeque, Zastal	8.0
6. Burgess, Trefl S.	8.0
7. Turek, Trefl Sopot	7.4
8. Doaks, Siarka J.	7.3
9. Simmons, Polpharma	7.2
10. Bartosz, PBG Bas.	7.1

Assists Per Game

Robert SKIBNIEWSKI
  Slask W.
  (182-G-83)
  Avg: 7.2

1. Skibniewski, Slask	7.2
2. Blassingame, Assec.	7.0
3. Hodge, Zastal ZG	5.7
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 Basket	4.5
10. Moore, PGE Turow	4.4

Steals Per Game

Krzysztof SZUBARGA
  Anwil
  (182-G-84)
  Avg: 1.7

1. Szubarga, Anwil	1.7
2. Sapp, Kotwica	1.5
3. Skibniewski, Slask	1.5
4. Tiller, Siarka J.	1.5
5. Ponitka, AZS P.	1.4
6. Motiejunas, Asseco	1.4
7. Koszarek, Trefl S.	1.4
8. Dabrowski, Polph.	1.4
9. Miller, Siarka J.	1.4
10. Hodge, Zastal ZG	1.4

Blocks Per Game

Chris BURGESS
  Trefl S.
  (209-C-79)
  Avg: 1.6

1. Burgess, Trefl S.	1.6
2. Harris, Kotwica	1.6
3. Eziukwu, AZS K.	1.6
4. Kesicki, Kotwica	1.4
5. Morrison, Energa C.	1.3
6. Karnowski, Siarka	1.2
7. Lauderdale, PGE T.	1.1
8. Mladenovic, Slask	1.1
9. Lawal, Zastal ZG	1.1
10. Doaks, Siarka J.	1.0

PLK Round 3 of Finals. Trefl Sopot post first win - by Eurobasket News

FINAL

Trefl Sopot - Asseco Prokom 83-57

Trefl Sopot opened their win count in the title series. The game was mostly controlled by Trefl Sopot. Asseco Prokom managed to win fourth quarter 15-14. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Trefl Sopot dominated down low during the game scoring 58 of its points in the paint compared to Asseco Prokom's 38. They outrebounded Asseco Prokom 39-26 including 29 on the defensive glass. It was a great evening for international forward Adam Waczynski (199-89, agency: Limelight Hoops) who led his team to a victory scoring 15 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists. American power forward John Turek (205-83, college: Nebraska) helped adding 18 points and 9 rebounds. Five Trefl Sopot players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was Lithuanian power forward Donatas Motiejunas (213-90, agency: Interperformances) with 11 points and 5 rebounds and American guard Jerel Blassingame (175-81, college: UNLV) scored 5 points and 4 assists. Asseco Prokom's coach gave up on the game allowing to play twelve players seeing no chance for a win.
Top scorers:
Trefl Sopot: J.Turek 18+9reb, F.Dylewicz 15+3reb+1ast, A.Waczynski 15+8reb+4ast, L.Koszarek 15+2reb+3ast, J.Mallett 10+5reb+1ast, M.Stefanski 6+3reb+1ast
Asseco Prokom: D.Motiejunas 11+5reb+1ast, A.Hrycaniuk 9+2reb, P.Zamojski 6+2reb, J.Blassingame 5+3reb+4ast, M.Kuebler 5+1reb, Q.Day 4+1reb

3rd Place

Zastal ZG - PGE Turow 79-74

Zastal Zielona Gora celebrated PLK Bronze. They defeated PGE Turow in the decisive third game of the series. PGE Turow trailed by 12 points after 3 quarters before a 19-12 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 74-79 at the end of the game. Zastal ZG made 23-of-29 free shots (79.3 percent) during the game. 25 personal fouls committed by PGE Turow helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was a great evening for Ivorian-Puerto Rican point guard Walter Hodge (183-86, college: Florida) who led his team to a victory scoring 25 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. The former international point guard Kamil Chanas (188-85) helped adding 21 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. The best for the losing side was American guard Arthur Lee (185-77, college: Stanford, agency: Interperformances) with 16 points and 5 assists and naturalized German forward Konrad Wysocki (201-82, college: Princeton, agency: Pro One Sports) scored 13 points and 6 rebounds. Four PGE Turow players scored in double figures. PGE Turow's coach Jacek Winnicki rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
Zastal ZG: W.Hodge 25+5reb+5ast, K.Chanas 21+5reb+4ast, P.Stelmach 10+4reb+1ast, U.Mirkovic 9+6reb+1ast, K.Archibeque 9+7reb, M.Sroka 3+3reb+2ast
PGE Turow: A.Lee 16+3reb+5ast, M.Chylinski 13+2reb, K.Wysocki 13+6reb, D.Kickert 10+1reb, D.Jackson 8+4reb+4ast, D.Lauderdale 6+5reb

Michal Chylisnki stays with PGE Turow - by Eurobasket News

Michal Chylinski (199-G-86, agency: Interperformances) will remain in PGE Turow for the next season. The guard has agreed on terms of contract extension. The new deal is meant for two seasons. Michal Chylisnki joined PGE Turow back in 2009. Last season the guard notched 1.8 points per game in EuroCup. In PLK his stats read 6.8 points, 2.0 rebounds and 1.0 assist per appearance. Previously Michal Chylinski had stints in Poland, France and Spain. Eurobasket.com named the guard All-Polish League Most Improved Player of the Year in 2006. He has been the member of the Polish National Team since 2006. He participated at Qualifying Round to the European Championship in 2011. The player averaged 5.3 points, 3.3 boards and 1.3 assists for Poland.

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

PUERTO RICO

Stats Leaders - BSN

Points Per Game

Al THORNTON
  Guayama
  (203-F-83)
  Avg: 25.3

1. Thornton, Guayama	25.3
2. Sensley, Humacao	19.7
3. Randolph, Quebradi.	19.4
4. Harris, San German	19.1
5. Diogu, Arecibo	18.1
6. Brown, Humacao	18.0
7. Ayuso, Arecibo	17.5
8. Dalmau, Bayamon	17.4
9. Ramos, Quebradillas	17.1
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 German	10.3
3. Diogu, Arecibo	9.9
4. Lloreda, San G.	9.6
5. Powell, Guayama	9.2
6. Thornton, Guayama	9.2
7. Sensley, Humacao	9.0
8. Ramos, Quebradillas	8.8
9. Burgess, Guaynabo	8.4
10. Sweetney, Bayamon	8.1

Assists Per Game

Andres RODRIGUEZ
  Arecibo
  (184-PG-81)
  Avg: 8.1

1. Rodriguez, Arecibo	8.1
2. Rivera, San German	5.7
3. Guzman, Guaynabo	5.4
4. Garcia, Humacao	5.2
5. Pagan, Guayama	5.0
6. Smith, Mayaguez	4.9
7. Butler, Quebradill.	4.8
8. Dalmau, Bayamon	4.1
9. Pinnock, Arecibo	4.1
10. Brown, Humacao	3.4

Steals Per Game

Donta SMITH
  Mayaguez
  (201-G-83)
  Avg: 2

1. Smith, Mayaguez	2.0
2. Rodriguez, Arecibo	1.9
3. Mojica, Bayamon	1.7
4. Pinnock, Arecibo	1.5
5. Hamilton, Mayaguez	1.5
6. Dalmau, Bayamon	1.4
7. Sensley, Humacao	1.3
8. Thornton, Guayama	1.3
9. Figueroa, Guaynabo	1.3
10. Rivera, San German	1.3

Blocks Per Game

Mamadou LAMIZANA
  Bayamon
  (207-F/C-81)
  Avg: 2.4

1. Lamizana, Bayamon	2.4
2. Penn, Humacao	1.8
3. Aubry, Arecibo	1.7
4. O''Bryant, Mayaguez	1.6
5. Shannon, Quebradil.	1.6
6. Thornton, Guayama	1.6
7. Looby, Bayamon	1.5
8. Burgess, Guaynabo	1.4
9. Randolph, Quebradi.	1.3
10. Powell, Guayama	1.3

Lopez named Rookie of the Year: - by Luis Modestti

Jose Lopez (196-F-88) from Caciques de Humacao was selected as Rookie of the Year for the 2012 BSN season.

Lopez, who made his BSN debut in 2010 for Humacao qualified for the award because he didnt play more than 40 minutes before 2012.

The son of Jos Carita Lopez averaged 5.09 points and 3.3 rebounds with Humacao and had a great second half of the season.

Humacao finished the season with a 9-21 record.

Thornton selected as the best Import in the 2012 season: - by Luis Modestti

Al Thornton (203-F-83, college: Florida St.) of Brujos de Guayama was selected as the best Import of the 2012 BSN season. The voting was made of a panel of coaches, owners and local press.

Thornton averaged 25.29 points and 9.2 rebounds in 28 games for Guayama.

Guayama finished last with an 8-22 record but Thornton was their only consistent player during the season.

If he doesn't return to the NBA look for Thornton to be a top target for teams next season.

Other awards, including coach of the year, defensive player and MVP will be announced during the playoffs.

Indios get a 3-2 lead in the semifinals over Vaqueros: - by Luis Modestti

Indios de Mayaguez defeated Vaqueros de Bayamon 92-77 to put he semifinal series 3-2.

This time Indios dominated the whole way with a balanced offensive attack led by Donta Smith (201-G-83, college: SE Illinois JC) who had 20 points and Carlos Rivera (187-PG-83, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Hofstra) who added 18.

On defense they pressure the ball handlers of Bayamon and forced many uncomfortable looks.

The first half ended 51-37 in favor of Indios and they were never challenged in the final 20 minutes.

Bayamon had Michael Sweetney (203-F-82, college: Georgetown) with 19 points and Gary Wilkinson (204-F/C-82, college: Utah St.) 17.

Game six is scheduled for Thursday at Coliseo de Puerto Rico.

Capitanes reach the BSN finals: - by Luis Modestti

Capitanes de Arecibo reached their third straight BSN finals by beating Atleticos de San German 91-79 at Manuel Iguina Coliseum.

This is the sixth final in eight years for Arecibo. They have won four titles since 2005 and are the current two-time defending champions.

Larry Ayuso (190-G-77, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: USC) netted 25 points, David Cortes (190-G/F-81) 16 and Daniel Santiago (216-C-76, agency: Priority Sports, college: N.Mexico) 15 for Arecibo.

After a 22-18 lead by Atleticos in the first quarter, Capitanes reacted with a 30-point second quarter led by Cortes and Guillermo Diaz. The first half ended 48-37 and after that Atleticos lost control and were never close again.

In the loss Mike Harris (198-F-83, college: Rice) had 25 and Filiberto Rivera (190-PG-82, college: UTEP) scored 13.

Capitanes now wait for the winner of the semifinal series between Indios and Vaqueros.

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

ROMANIA

U-Mobitelco eyes Baris Aktas - by Eurobasket News

According to local media, CS U-Mobitelco Cluj Napoca wants to sign Baris Aktas (193-F-91) for the next season. Reportedly, they are already in talks. Aktas spent this season with CS Dinamo Bucuresti. He appeared 27 times in the league averaging 6.3 points, 2.4 assists and 2.1 rebounds. Dinamo finished the season as No.7 with 19-9 record. They failed in the Playoff Quarterfinals against Timisoara (2-3). Before Dinamo Bucuresti, Baris Aktas spent one year with Timisoara, but he played only two games for the club. In 2009/10, he was a member of Otopeni, but again he got a chance only in 3 games. Baris Aktas played for the Romanian U20 National Team over the past two years. In 2010, he had 4.9 ppg and 1.4 rpg for 7 games at U20 EuroBasket Division B in Austria. Aktas also played for U18 Romania in the past.

Romanian champ CSU Asesoft Ploiesti extends C Vladimir Tica for two more years - by Eurobasket News

CSU Asesoft Ploiesti announced important news today. The Romanian champion penned a 2-year contract extension with Vladimir Tica (208-C/F-81, agency: BeoExcell). The Serbian big guy joined the team in February. He appeared in 21 games averaging 14.5 points and 6.3 rebounds. It seems Tica was the missing piece of Ploiesti puzzle as they drastically improved after his arrival. The team was at eighth place at that time, but they jumped to position No.4 for rest of the regular season with 20-8 record. Later in the Quarterfinals Ploiesti eliminated Oradea with perfect 3-0 and after that they edged Gaz Metan in the Semis (3-0). Ploiesti ended the Playoffs with the perfect score with 4-0 victory against Timisoara in the Finals series. Vladimir Tica started the season with Buducnost Podgorica. Before that, he spent few years in Poland. In 2010, Tica won the Polish Cup with AZS Koszalin. In the past, he also played for Crvena Zvezda, New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig, Khimik Yuzhny, Hemofarm, Dexia Mons-Hainaut and Dynamo Moscow Region. With Dexia Mons-Hainaut, Tica won the Belgian Cup in 2006.

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

RUSSIA

Khimki Close in on Augustine and Koponen! - by Anton Zirkov

After the announcment of Paul Davis (211-C-84, college: Michigan St.) yesterday,Khimki Moscow are ready to announce another two new additions to the club.
The Eurocup holders have agreed terms with Murcia's American forward James Augustine (208-F-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Illinois) and Virtus Bologna Finnish point guard - Petteri Koponen (194-G-88).
Augustine,the ACB top rebounder of the 2011-2012 season with 8.3 per game also added 12.7ppg and 1.2apg and was wanted in couple of top European teams but Khimki has made the move and agreed terms with ex Illinois alumnus.
Petteri Koponen is close to agree terms after the club won the race to sign the Virtus Bologna point guard,he had offers from Lokomotiv Kuban,Montepaschi Siena and EA Milano but the Finnish international is ready to sign a three years conract.
This season he avereged 14.3ppg,3rpg,2.6apg in 35 SerieA games and has finished a 4 years contract with the Italian Giants.

Khimky officially signs 2-year deal with James Augustine - by Eurobasket News

James Augustine (208-F-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Illinois) officially became a new member of Khimky Moscow Region. The player signed a 2-year deal and joined Paul Davis (211-C-84, college: Michigan St.). Augustine spent last season with UCAM Murcia. He appeared 34 times in Liga Endesa averaging 12.7 points and 8.3 rebounds. Before Murcia, the 28-year-old American played for Valencia. There he had 4.2 ppg and 4.2 rpg for 17 games in Spain. In Euroleague, Augustine registered 3.4 ppg and 2.4 rpg. From 2008 to 2010, James Augustine was a member of Gran Canaria. He also has NBA experience from the Orlando Magic, where he played in 2007/08. For 25 games with them Augistine averaged 1.6 points and 1.2 rebounds. In 2006/07, the player got a chance just two times with Orlando. James Augustine graduated at the University of Illinois six year ago.

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

SERBIA

Stats Leaders - 1A

Points Per Game

Milos BOJOVIC
  Zeleznicar
  (198-G-81)
  Avg: 23.5

1. Bojovic, Zeleznicar	23.5
2. Milisavljevi., Meg.	20.7
3. Zigeranovic, Borac	20.5
4. Balaban, Smederevo	20.0
5. Bozovic, Sloga	17.1
6. Jeremic, Hemofarm	17.1
7. Cupkovic, Napredak	16.5
8. Dimic, Radnicki.	16.5
9. Miljenovic, Mega V.	16.1
10. Svilar, Smederevo	15.5

Rebounds Per Game

Darko BALABAN
  Smederevo
  (211-C-89)
  Avg: 8.8

1. Balaban, Smederevo	8.8
2. Zigeranovic, Borac	8.2
3. Cupkovic, Napredak	7.6
4. Majkic, Prolet.	7.2
5. Cantekin, Mega V.	7.2
6. Petrovic, BKK R.	7.0
7. Scott, Radnicki K.	6.9
8. Misanovic, OKK B.	6.6
9. Musli, Mega Vizura	6.4
10. Gagic, Hemofarm	6.1

Assists Per Game

Miljan PAVKOVIC
  Radnicki K.
  (178-G-81)
  Avg: 7.1

1. Pavkovic, Radnicki	7.1
2. Boltic, BKK R.	5.7
3. Osmokrovic, BKK R.	5.1
4. Dundjerski, Vojvo.	4.7
5. Popovic, Crvena Z.	4.4
6. Markovic, Radnicki	4.4
7. Jovic, Sloga	4.3
8. Stefanovic, Smede.	4.1
9. Milisavljevi., Meg.	4.1
10. Miljenovic, Mega	4.1

Steals Per Game

Negoslav GACIC
  BKK Radnicki
  (193-G-)
  Avg: 2.8

1. Gacic, BKK Radnicki	2.8
2. Jovic, Sloga	2.6
3. Boltic, BKK R.	2.3
4. Dundjerski, Vojvo.	2.1
5. Bojovic, Zeleznicar	2.0
6. Vulin, Prolet.	1.9
7. Kuzeta, Vojvodina	1.8
8. Majstorovic, Tamis	1.8
9. Miljenovic, Mega V.	1.7
10. Drca, OKK Beograd	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Nenad MISANOVIC
  OKK B.
  (217-C-84)
  Avg: 1.5

1. Misanovic, OKK B.	1.5
2. Zigeranovic, Borac	1.2
3. Simon, Radnicki K.	1.2
4. Balaban, Smederevo	1.2
5. Scott, Radnicki K.	1.0
6. Cantekin, Mega V.	0.9
7. Petronic, BKK R.	0.8
8. Todorovic, Borac	0.8
9. Majkic, Prolet.	0.8
10. Jevtovic, Sloboda	0.7

Interview with Nikola Kuga - by Pervin Elgin

Nikola Kuga (200-F/G-86) is a 25 years old shooting guard. He was born in Bihac, in the north-western part of Bosnia and Herzegovina. He lived in Croatia , then during the war moved to Montenegro, and finaly to Serbia. So he can call himself a truef Yougoslavian: 'It was a really hard childhood time, but I look at it in a positive way. I can say I was lucky because I met many different people as a kid.'

Kuga's basketball time was also interesting. The 200cm serbian grew up in the famous basketball school of FMP Belgrade (the same youth program of many Euroleague players like Milos Teodosic and Nemanja Aleksandrov). Nikola collected dozens of caps in the Serbia Cadet and Junior teams. He played in Serbia (FMP) , Cyprus (Achilleas), Macedonia (Amak Ohrid), Slovenia (Polzela), Iceland (Skallagrimur) and again in Cyprus (AEK Larnaca) before being a legit pioneer on the other continents: Morocco (Sport Plazza), Dubai (Al Sharjah), the Maldives (RLC). He played in South America (Colombia, the first European ever) and in Asia (Vietnam),and was a top 5 player in the Gran Canaria 2007 Summer League and one of the best in the Malaga 2010 Summer League. Time for an interview:

Hey Nikola, your story is pretty interesting. As a product of the Serbian basketball school you decided early to play abroad. Tell us a little bit about you and your career so far.

I love challenges. As a young player I had a chance to go and play abroad. I left Serbia very early. After Serbia I played in Cyprus, Slovenia, Macedonia, Iceland... after afew years in Europe I was offered to play out of Europe. It was an great chance for me to discover new basketball worlds and start to write the second chapter of my basketball story. My first contact out of the Europe was Morocco. I was fascinated by the different lifestyle, culture, people and history, so I never regretted that decision. I spend one great year and season there, with great success. After that I went back to Europe for one season. At the end of the season I got a lovely offer from the Maldives to play a summer tournament. It was a great preparation for the next season, and a really amazing and relaxing time.

The 2011 season brought big challenges. I went to Latin America, and was the first player from Europe in Colombia ever. It was a crazy
time: four games per week, 24 games in less than 2 months, and play offs. It was a really tough league, with some NBA-players. I can describe it in a few words: games, practice, travel, sleep... Of course I had some days off, but only a few times I was able to go out and see the really amazing girls in Colombia.

After this 3 month competition I shortly moved to Dubai and spend a great time with Arabic 2011 Champion Sharjah . One of the best coaches in The Middle East area, Abdul Hamid, called me to help his team for some tournaments there . I couldn't play the championship, because only 1 import' player is allowed over there, and they allready had a US Point gueard. But it was a great expierience. After that I went to Vietnam, my last stop so far.

You have played in so many countries, from Europe to Africa, South America and Asia. What did you learn from this countries and what are the main differences of the game in these different areas?

Playing basketball in all those countries and experiencing different basketball and cultures made me a really better person and a better player. I feel very blessed and thankful for my basketball experiences. I'm focused on working hard, making teams happy and enjoying basketball. I'm a player who's trying to get better and better, this is my challenge and my job.

There are many differences between the game in Europe and other places I played. Out of Europe the game is much more focused on offense.
Playing as an import means you have to score 20, 25, 30 points. It's more NBA-style, the game is fast. There's more motion, many fast breaks, people like to see their teams score 100 points in a game. In Europe, teams are more focused on defence, tactics, the position game... so that's the main difference. As a player you have to be a bit more athletic and get individual skills, because you can expect to play a lot of 1 on 1 games, and have to create your own space. Also, almost 80 procent of the points come from import players. Teams are expecting points from you each and every game, while in Europe there are at least 8 or 9 players able to have a high score almost every game. It's not an easy job, but every day you learn new things and that is why I really love basketball.

Do you have funny stories about different local cultures ?

Well, you have to be flexibile and adjust your lifestyle to the local culture. There are many more differences then in basketball. My career brought me in so many countries, experiencing cultures and different mentalities and always learn more about the world we live in.
Adjusting is not always easy of course, and there are a lot of funny situations happening every time. People in Asia are so friendly it's always funny walking along the streets every day, where you can just meet people asking you something: it's amazing. It's always a lot of attention. In Morocco it was always funny. Really nice people, but not so organized about basketball. On the day before a game, on the practice all team owners appear and ask the same question: Are you ok?'. Then, the next 5 days, nobody come. The taxi drivers in Vietnam were also funny. They don't speak English. They drive you around the city for 40 minutes, before they drive you to your address. All you can do is wait. Now it's really funy, but there it wasn't .

Food is a special story. You need at least a month to adjust to the local food. In Asia they always make food spicy. On the Maldives, every single meal was spicy. I told them: please bring me an un-spicy meal the next time. Always they answered: sure. And always the next meal was the same as the previous. But hey, now I like spicy food...

Who is Nikola Kuga off court in everyday life?

Well, I am not much of a different person on and off the court. I love sports. Off season time, I try to stay at least 1 month out of basketball. But I play tennis and I like to swim. The last few years, I use the summer to go in a Hiperbaric Chamber to recover after the season.

I love to discover new things. I love music, the internet. Not so much different things than everybody I guess . I like to spend time with my family. Summer time is great for that, because during the season most of the time we're not together.

What's your next challenge as a player?

Well , I am 25 years old . My previous expierience told me never to say I will go there'. So I hope I will continue to write new chapters of my basketball story somewhere in the world.

Romanian champ CSU Asesoft Ploiesti extends C Vladimir Tica for two more years - by Eurobasket News

CSU Asesoft Ploiesti announced important news today. The Romanian champion penned a 2-year contract extension with Vladimir Tica (208-C/F-81, agency: BeoExcell). The Serbian big guy joined the team in February. He appeared in 21 games averaging 14.5 points and 6.3 rebounds. It seems Tica was the missing piece of Ploiesti puzzle as they drastically improved after his arrival. The team was at eighth place at that time, but they jumped to position No.4 for rest of the regular season with 20-8 record. Later in the Quarterfinals Ploiesti eliminated Oradea with perfect 3-0 and after that they edged Gaz Metan in the Semis (3-0). Ploiesti ended the Playoffs with the perfect score with 4-0 victory against Timisoara in the Finals series. Vladimir Tica started the season with Buducnost Podgorica. Before that, he spent few years in Poland. In 2010, Tica won the Polish Cup with AZS Koszalin. In the past, he also played for Crvena Zvezda, New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig, Khimik Yuzhny, Hemofarm, Dexia Mons-Hainaut and Dynamo Moscow Region. With Dexia Mons-Hainaut, Tica won the Belgian Cup in 2006.

Partizan is the first finalist - by Eurobasket News

Second games of the Superleague Semifinals just ended. Partizan outplayed Vojvodina on the road 81-87 closing the series with perfect 2-0. It means that Partizan advanced to the Finals and now waits for the winner of Crvena Zvezda - Radnicki Kragujevac series. Crvena Zvezda celebrated 76-62 home win tonight tying the score to 1-1. Third crucial game will be played on Friday in Kragujevac. Partizan is the defending champion in Serbia. They already defended the Cup trophy earlier this season.

Crvena Zvezda - Radnicki K. 76-62 (1-1)
The game was mostly controlled by Zvezda. Radnicki K. managed to win third quarter 22-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Zvezda dominated down low during the game scoring 40 of its points in the paint compared to Radnicki K.'s 20. They outrebounded Radnicki K. 43-28 including 28 on the defensive glass. American forward Omar Thomas (197-82, college: UTEP) orchestrated the victory by scoring 23 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. Guard Andreja Milutinovic (199-90) contributed with 14 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Montenegrin guard Miljan Pavkovic (178-81, agency: Beo Basket) replied with 8 points and 5 assists and American forward Mike Scott (203-86, college: Kent St.) added 5 points and 8 rebounds in the effort for Radnicki K.Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next game.
Top scorers:
Radnicki K.: B.Bakic 9+2reb+1ast, D.Mijatovic 9+1ast, S.Sinovec 8+2reb+1ast, M.Pavkovic 8+2reb+5ast, S.Bircevic 7+4reb, B.Marjanovic 6+4reb
Crvena Zvezda: O.Thomas 23+5reb+5ast, A.Milutinovic 14+8reb+1ast, B.Popovic 12+1reb+2ast, N.Nedovic 8+2reb+3ast, M.Ilic 6+7reb+3ast, V.Radivojevic 5+2reb+4ast

Vojvodina - Partizan 81-87 (0-2)
Vojvodina was ahead by 4 points after three quarters before a 30-20 charge of Partizan, which allowed them to win the game. Vojvodina was plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. International center Milan Macvan (206-C-89, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) scored 17 points and 4 assists to lead the charge for the winners and international guard Dragan Milosavljevic (198-89) chipped in 11 points and 7 rebounds during the contest. Guard Slobodan Dundjerski (190-88, agency: Alti Sport) responded with 14 points, 5 assists and 5 steals and forward Strahinja Milosevic (203-85) scored 12 points. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Vojvodina: S.Dundjerski 14+2reb+5ast, R.Markovic 14+3ast, S.Milosevic 12+3reb+2ast, O.Kuzeta 10+2reb, D.Zekovic 9+3reb, R.Marojevic 7
Partizan: M.Macvan 17+4reb+4ast, M.Raduljica 12+4reb+3ast, N.Besovic 11+1reb, D.Milosavljevic 11+7reb+2ast, D.Andjusic 9+1reb+2ast, D.Kecman 9+1reb

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

SOUTH KOREA

Korean men's senior NT final roster - by JungHwan Seo

Korean Basketball Association (KBA) announced final 12 players of Korean men's senior national team today.

The roster is filled with 10 professional players including Oh Se-Keun, KBL Final MVP this year, and 2 amateur athletes.

Lee Jong-hyun, the only high school player, is the youngest player in this team. Collegiate player Kim Jong-kyu (207cm/Kyunghee University) is the tallest guy in this team.

Kim Sun-hyung and Kim Dong-wook made their first final roster in Korean NT while former Captain Kim Joo-sung is retiring from the team. He is suffering from bad knee injury now. Yang Dong-geun, No.1 PG in Korea, became the new captain.

Team Korea will have Olympic qualifying matches against Russia and Dominica Republic upcoming this July in Caracas, Venezuela.

Korean senior national team

Guard

Yang Dong-geun, Park Chan-hee, Kim Tae-sool, Kim Sun-hyung

Forward

Yoon Ho-young, Yang Hee-jong, Lee Seung-jun (A.K.A. Eric Sandrin), Kim Dong-wook, Choi Jin-soo

Center

Kim Jong-Kyu, Lee Jong-hyun, Oh Se-keun

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

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, Assignia	16.8
3. Teletovic, Caja L.	16.0
4. Wright, CAI Z.	14.5
5. Penney, Fuenlabra.	14.4
6. Davis, Cajasol	14.1
7. De Colo, Valencia	13.3
8. Hettsheimer, CAI Z.	13.3
9. Navarro, FCB Regal	13.1
10. Freeland, Unicaja	12.9

Rebounds Per Game

James AUGUSTINE
  UCAM M.
  (208-F-84)
  Avg: 8.3

1. Augustine, UCAM M.	8.3
2. Ivanov, Lucentum	7.9
3. Borchardt, B.de R.	7.7
4. Freeland, Unicaja	7.5
5. Davis, Cajasol	7.3
6. Williams, FIATC J.	7.1
7. Caner-Medley, Vale.	6.9
8. Gabriel, Asefa E.	6.5
9. Teletovic, Caja L.	6.4
10. Hettsheimer, CAI	6.4

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 Madrid	4.1
4. Prigioni, Caja L.	3.8
5. Rodriguez, Bluse.	3.8
6. Granger, Asefa E.	3.8
7. Dumas, B.de R.	3.7
8. Rodriguez, Real M.	3.7
9. Huertas, FCB Regal	3.5
10. Llompart, Lucent.	3.4

Steals Per Game

Pablo PRIGIONI
  Caja L.
  (191-G-77)
  Avg: 1.8

1. Prigioni, Caja L.	1.8
2. Doellman, Assignia	1.5
3. Vidal, Lagun A.	1.5
4. De Colo, Valencia	1.5
5. Uriz, B.de Rueda V.	1.4
6. Udoka, UCAM M.	1.4
7. Hanga, Assignia M.	1.4
8. Calloway, Cajasol	1.4
9. Eidson, FCB Regal	1.3
10. Garbajosa, Unicaja	1.3

Blocks Per Game

Stephane LASME
  Blusens M.
  (203-F-82)
  Avg: 1.9

1. Lasme, Blusens M.	1.9
2. Fischer, Gescrap BB	1.9
3. Sene, Fuenlabrada	1.7
4. Begic, Real Madrid	1.5
5. Toure, B.de R.	1.4
6. Ndong, FCB Regal	1.1
7. Barnes, Lucentum	1.0
8. Vazquez, FCB Regal	1.0
9. Augustine, UCAM M.	0.9
10. Asselin, Assignia	0.9

Stats Leaders - LEB Gold

Points Per Game

Troy DEVRIES
  Melilla
  (193-G-82)
  Avg: 19.1

1. DeVries, Melilla	19.1
2. Witt, Knet Clavijo	18.2
3. Feldeine, Breogan	17.7
4. Quezada, Leon	16.5
5. Franklin, Huesca	16.2
6. Bivia, Mallorca	16.0
7. Fernandez, Granada	15.7
8. Moss, Palencia	15.4
9. Leonavicius, Hues.	14.7
10. Antelo, Caceres	14.7

Rebounds Per Game

Olaseni LAWAL
  Knet Clavijo
  (208-F/C-86)
  Avg: 10.6

1. Lawal, Knet Clavijo	10.6
2. Diouf, Palencia	8.8
3. Donaldson, Canarias	8.8
4. Kuzmin, Clinicas.	8.6
5. Starosta, Navarra	8.2
6. Antelo, Caceres	7.8
7. Mortellaro, Leon	7.7
8. Sikma, La Palma	7.7
9. Fernandez, Granada	7.6
10. Williams, Caceres	7.4

Assists Per Game

Oscar ALVARADO
  La Palma
  (184-PG-91)
  Avg: 6.1

1. Alvarado, La Palma	6.1
2. Bivia, Mallorca	5.1
3. Witt, Knet Clavijo	4.5
4. Norris, Lleida	4.3
5. Lopez, Burgos	4.0
6. Perez, Menorca	3.7
7. Bernabe, Leon	3.7
8. Sabat, Canarias	3.6
9. Quezada, Leon	3.4
10. DeVries, Melilla	3.4

Steals Per Game

Alexander FRANKLIN
  Huesca
  (196-PF-88)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Franklin, Huesca	2.5
2. Toledo, Burgos	2.1
3. Bernabe, Leon	2.0
4. Xavier, Palencia	2.0
5. Norris, Lleida	1.9
6. Green, Mallorca	1.8
7. Alonso, Mallorca	1.8
8. Abrines, Clinic.	1.8
9. Rost, Canarias	1.7
10. Guerra, Granada	1.6

Blocks Per Game

Ognen KUZMIN
  Clinicas.
  (215-C-90)
  Avg: 2.1

1. Kuzmin, Clinicas.	2.1
2. Lawal, Knet Clavijo	1.7
3. Diouf, Palencia	1.6
4. Green, Mallorca	1.3
5. Odiakosa, Melilla	1.2
6. Olmos, Caceres	1.1
7. Coleman, Girona	1.1
8. Samb, Granada	1.1
9. Donaldson, Canarias	0.9
10. Antelo, Caceres	0.9

Melilla joins Menorca in LEB Gold Playoff Finals - by Eurobasket News

Semifinals, Game 5: Melilla - Caceres 91-81 (3-2)

Fifth decisive game of the LEB Gold Semifinals between Melilla and Caceres was played last night. The hosts celebrated 91-81 victory and advanced to the Finals. There, Melilla will meet Menorca. It will be another best-of-five series and first game is scheduled for Saturday. Menorca will have a home court advantage in this series.
The hosts trailed by 7 points at the halftime before their 57-40 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Melilla Baloncesto made 16-of-18 free shots (88.9 percent) during the game. Melilla Baloncesto outrebounded Caceres 2016 36-20 including a 25-12 advantage in defensive rebounds. Melilla Baloncesto looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. Nigerian power forward Chukwudinma Odiakosa (203-F/C-85, agency: N.E.T., college: Illinois St.) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 26 points and 11 rebounds (on 10-of-13 shooting from the field). Guard Jose Salvador Arco (194-G-85) contributed with 20 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. Four Melilla Baloncesto players scored in double figures. Power forward Jose Angel Antelo (203-87) answered with 18 points and 9 rebounds and point guard Daniel Rodriguez (180-84) added 22 points in the effort for Caceres 2016. Caceres 2016's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help.
The winner of LEB Gold Playoffs will advance to Liga Endesa. Canarias already won the promotion. They were regular season champs with 26-8 record. Finals - games schedule: June 2, 9, 15, *22 and *30.

Melilla: C.Odiakosa 26+11reb, J.Salvador Arco 20+5reb+4ast, M.Suka-Umu 18+4reb+3ast, H.Manzano 10+4reb, J.Riera 6+1reb+4ast, K.Wachsmann 5+8reb
Caceres: D.Rodriguez 22+2ast, J.Angel Antelo 18+9reb+2ast, X.Forcada 11+4reb+5ast, F.Sanchez 9+1ast, P.Robles 8+2ast, L.Williams 5+2reb+1ast

Report: Lakers' Pau Gasol wants to play for Chicago Bulls - by Eurobasket News

Los Angeles Lakers forward Pau Gasol (7'0''-F/C-80) would like to play for the Chicago Bulls, Bulls.com's Sam Smith reports. Smith cites Lakers insiders that tell him Gasol wants out of Los Angeles and would like to land in Chicago.

Gasol clashed with Lakers star Kobe Bryant and Lakers management this season, as he put up the worst statistical season of his 11-year NBA career. He finished the season averaging 17.4 points and 10.4 rebounds per game, but he only averaged 12 points on 44 percent shooting in the Lakers second-round playoff loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Keep in mind that the Lakers already traded Gasol once, before the 2011 season started, only to have the deal nixed by NBA commissioner David Stern. Gasol trade rumors also floated around near the trade deadline. That, plus his $19 million salary over the next two seasons, are prime reasons the Lakers want to move him.

The question is whether Chicago will get involved and whether the Bulls are prepared to significantly overhaul their roster after a first-round playoff exit at the hand of the Philadelphia 76ers. Smith ponders whether they would:

That, of course, would be if the Bulls decided to start anew and provide a new and different kind of cast to play with Rose. Its maybe the biggest philosophical question to begin to consider these next few weeks.

Early last week, The Los Angeles Times reported that Gasol got few answers from Lakers General Manager Mitch Kupchak in his exit interview.

I wish I could have clarification but they cant give it to me right now, Gasol told the paper. I think management still has to talk to ownership to see what direction this thing will be going next year.

He did say that if he was back with the Lakers, he hoped for a much more peaceful year.

Courtesy of http://tracking.si.com

Unicaja Malaga agrees with Jasmin Repesa - by Eurobasket News

According to Spanish media (Diariosur), Jasmin Repesa (agency: World Sport Agency) will be the new Head Coach of Unicaja Malaga. Reportedly, Repesa accepted the proposal and he will be officially announced after the Croatian league Playoffs. According to the same source, Malaga already negotiates with Jesus Mateo about the contract termination.
Jasmin Repesa is currently the Head Coach of Cibona Zagreb. They have 2-0 lead in Croatian league Finals against Cedevita and need just one more for the title. The first chance to do that Cibona will have on Saturday. Jasmin Repesa (agency: World Sport Agency ) took over the club in December. From January of 2010 until the last summer he worked with Benetton Treviso. Before that, Repesa led Lottomatica Roma and Climamio Bologna. He also has experience from Slask Wroclaw, Split, Tofas Bursa, Croatian and Polish National Teams.

Assignia Manresa signs Aleksandar Yanev - by Eurobasket News

Assignia Manresa officially announced signing of Aleksandar Yanev (203-F-90, agency: Interperformances). The Bulgarian forward arrives to the club from Euroins Cherno More. He had 17.1 ppg, 8.6 rpg and 1.4 apg for them in 23 Bulgarian league games. Yanev also spent some time with Kavala during the season. There he averaged 2 points and 1 rebound for 3 games in Greek A1 league. Aleksandar Yanev is a product of Cherno More, where started as a teenager. In 2010/11, the player had 14.6 ppg, 8.6 rpg and 1.6 apg for 29 games in NBL. Yanev is a member of the Bulgarian National Team since 2009. He appeared 3 times at EuroBasket in Lithuania registering 1 ppg and 2 rpg. During the EuroBasket Qualifications he had 6.3 ppg and 4.2 rpg for 6 games. In the past, Yanev successfully played for U20, U18 and U16 Bulgaria.

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SWEDEN

Jamtland Basket signs combo guard Darryl Hudson - by Eurobasket News

Darryl Hudson (196-G-85, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Howard) will continue his career in Sweden. The American combo guard penned a deal with Jamtland Basket for the next season. He arrives to the club from the Taranaki Mountain Airs, New Zealand. He appeared 16 times with them averaging 20.9 points, 6.4 rebounds and 3.8 assists. In 2011 season, Hudson played for the McDonalds Manawatu Jets also on New Zealand. For them he had 18.8 ppg and 3.7 rpg in 16 games. Before that, Darryl Hudson played in Japan for Kyoto Hannaryz. He also has experience from Germany, Finland and Hungary. In 2008/09, Hudson had 13.8 ppg, 3.5 rpg and 1.6 apg for 26 games with Hungarian Falco. A year before that he shined in Finland with 19.7 ppg, 6.2 rpg and 3 apg in 41 games. He was a member of Karhut Kauhajoen at that time. Darryl Hudson graduated at the University of Howard five years ago.

Sundsvall Dragons extend Jakob Sigurdarson for 3 more years - by Eurobasket News

As expected, Jakob Sigurdarson (192-G-82, college: Birm.Southern) stays with Sundsvall Dragons. They penned a three-year deal today. Sigurdarson already spent last three seasons with the Dragons. In the latest one he had 19.2 ppg, 2.8 rpg and 2.8 apg in 40 games. He was the second best scorer of Basketligan. Sigurdarson helped Dragons to win the Basketligan title in 2011 and he was named Eurobasket.com All-Swedish Basketligan Player of the Year. He got the same award also in 2010. Jakob Sigurdarson joined Sundsvall in 2009 from KR Reykjavik. In the past, he also played in Hungary, Spain (LEB2) and Germany. In 2000 and later from 2004 to 2009, Sigurdarson played for the Icelandic National Team.

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SWITZERLAND

SAV Vacallo signs 2-year deal with Reto Schwaiger - by Luca Maffioli

SAV Vacallo Basket announced that Reto Schwaiger (192-G/F-87) signed a two-year deal (+1 year) with the club. The 25-years old Swiss player started his career in Birstal Starwings Basel. In 2005-2006 moved to Zurich Wildcats and in 2007-2008 season he came back to Birstal Starwings Basel. Schwaiger spent four seasons in BC Boncourt. In 2011-2012 started his season in BC Boncourt Red Team, then he moved to Starwings Basket Regio Basel averaging 4.6 points, 0.9 rebounds and 0.7 assist.

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TRBL

TRBL stats leaders

TRBL Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

1 Houston, Prime 26.5
2 Cheeks, Carolina 26.0
3 Fay, Streeter 24.9
4 Taylor, Carolina 24.7
5 Carpenter, Fay 20.9
6 Pickett Jr, BT 19.6
7 Little, Cary 19.4
8 McKeithan, Fay 19.1
9 Moore, Cary 19.0
10 Draughn, Carolina 18.6

Rebounds Per Game

1 Priest, BT 13.2
2 Cheeks, Carolina 12.8
3 Taylor, Carolina 11.3
4 Gibbs, Wilm 10.0
5 McLean, Fay 9.7
6 Draughn, Carolina 9.4
7 Pfaff, Prime 9.2
8 Rutherford 8.5
9 Ward, Cary 8.5
10 Pigford, Prime 8.2

Assists Per Game

1 Herrmann, Wilm 8.5
2 Street, Prime 7.0
3 Dixon, Carolina 6.3
4 Young, Cary 6.3
5 Pickett Jr, BT 5.2
6 Smith, Cary 4.3
7 Carpenter, Fay 4.1
8 Smith, Prime 3.9
9 Houston, Prime 3.5
10 Murphy, Fay 3.2

Steals Per Game

1 Smith, Prime 4.3
2 Pickett Jr, BT 3.4
3 Street, Prime 2.4
4 Draughn, Carolina 2.4
5 Jackson, Cary 2.3
6 Houston, Prime 2.0
7 Jones, Fay 1.8
8 Little, Cary 1.6
9 Cook, Wilm 1.6
10 Brown, Carolina 1.6

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TURKEY

Stats Leaders - D1

Points Per Game

Jonathan GIBSON
  Trabzonspor
  (182-PG-87)
  Avg: 19.9

1. Gibson, Trabzonspor	19.9
2. Chatman, Karsiyaka	18.3
3. Reynolds, Antalya	18.3
4. Brown, Trabzonspor	18.1
5. Scales, Mersin	17.4
6. Toolson, Aliaga	17.3
7. Fisher, Antalya	17.2
8. Grundy, Mersin	16.9
9. Sneed, Mersin	16.9
10. Washington, Turk	16.6

Rebounds Per Game

Elton BROWN
  Trabzonspor
  (206-C-83)
  Avg: 12.2

1. Brown, Trabzonspor	12.2
2. Stimac, Olin Edirne	9.9
3. Sanders, Hacett.	8.9
4. Mensah-Bonsu, Bes.	7.9
5. McGhee, Bandirma.	7.8
6. Buckman, Tofas	7.6
7. Wesson, Erdemir	7.6
8. Sonkol, Aliaga	7.3
9. Yucel, Turk T.	7.0
10. Dagli, Besiktas	6.8

Assists Per Game

Mire CHATMAN
  Karsiyaka
  (187-PG-78)
  Avg: 6.4

1. Chatman, Karsiyaka	6.4
2. Ermis, Banvit BK	5.8
3. Ratkovica, Aliaga	5.3
4. Tunceri, Anadolu	5.3
5. Senturk, Erdemir	4.9
6. Gordon, Galatasaray	4.5
7. Fisher, Antalya	4.4
8. Washington, Turk T.	4.4
9. Reynolds, Antalya	4.4
10. Arroyo, Besiktas	4.4

Steals Per Game

Vincent GRIER
  Mersin
  (195-G/F-83)
  Avg: 2.1

1. Grier, Mersin	2.1
2. Robinson, Trabzons.	2.1
3. Bryan-A., Hacett.	2.0
4. Chatman, Karsiyaka	1.9
5. Grundy, Mersin	1.7
6. Gordon, Galatasaray	1.6
7. Scales, Mersin	1.4
8. Guler, Turk T.	1.4
9. Hawkins, Besiktas	1.3
10. Sneed, Mersin	1.3

Blocks Per Game

Charles DAVIS
  Banvit BK
  (202-F-84)
  Avg: 1.3

1. Davis, Banvit BK	1.3
2. Bryan-A., Hacett.	1.3
3. Robinson, Erdemir	1.1
4. McGhee, Bandirma.	1.0
5. Gist, Fener.Ulker	0.9
6. Bayav, Karsiyaka	0.9
7. Aldemir, Galatasar.	0.9
8. Karaman, Karsiyaka	0.8
9. Turkyilmaz, Banvit	0.8
10. Qvale, Aliaga	0.8

Luksa Andric set to leave Galatasaray - by Eurobasket News

According to sportando.net, Luksa Andric (210-C-85, agency: Beo Basket) set to leave Galatasaray. As reported by his agent Misko Raznatovic, Luksa Andric is a free agent player. The deadine for a contract extension with Galatasaray was yesterday.
Last year Luksa Andric renewed his contract with Galatasaray. Luksa Andric joined Galatasaray at the start of the previous season. He tallied 9.1 points, 3.4 boards and 1.2 steals per game in EuroCup. In TBL his stats read 9.0 points and 3.8 rebounds per appearance. Luksa Andric played for Croatia at 2010 World Championships. The centre provided 7.0 points and 2.8 rebounds per game in Turkey.
In 2011-2012 for Galatasaray Medical Park Istanbul (Turkey-TBL) he averaged 11.1ppg, 4.2rpg, FGP: 59.4%, FT: 59.7% in Euroleague. In Turkish League his stats read 8.0 points per game.

Besiktas grabs 1-0 lead in TBL Finals - by Eurobasket News

TBL Finals, Game 1: Anadolu Efes - Besiktas 75-82 (0-1)

First game of TBL Finals between Anadolu Efes and Besiktas just ended. Visitors grabbed 75-82 victory for 1-0 lead in the series. The format is best-of-seven and second game is scheduled for Thursday. Efes will be the host again.
The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Anadolu Efes won fourth quarter 22-20. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Besiktas made 17-of-18 free shots (94.4 percent) during the game. British forward Pops Mensah-Bonsu (206-83, college: G.Washington, agency: SportsTalent) fired 18 points and 7 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) for the winners. Puerto Rican guard Carlos Arroyo (188-79, college: FIU) chipped in 15 points and 6 assists. Five Besiktas players scored in double figures. The former international guard Kerem Tunceri (190-79) produced 15 points and 7 assists and American guard Oliver Lafayette (188-84, college: Houston) added 10 points and 9 assists respectively for lost side. Anadolu Efes' coach Ilias Zouros rotated eleven players in this game, but that didn't help.
Anadolu Efes was No.3 in regular season with 24-6 record. Besiktas was No.4 with 22-8. The defending champion Fenerbahce Ulker and regular season champ Galatasaray are out of the competition. Besiktas eliminated them in the Quarterfinals and Semis.

Anadolu Efes: K.Tunceri 15+1reb+7ast, S.Barac 11+3reb, O.Lafayette 10+2reb+9ast, D.Savanovic 9+2reb, K.Gonlum 9+3reb+1ast, S.Guler 6+4reb
Besiktas: P.Mensah-Bonsu 18+7reb, Z.Erceg 15+6reb, C.Arroyo 15+4reb+6ast, D.Hawkins 13+3reb+2ast, E.Dagli 10+8reb+1ast, S.Cetin 7+3reb+2ast

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UGANDA

UCU Canons looses to former league champions Falcons - by Joel Nature

Record Fuba League champions Falcons finally found a way to close out games with 75-71 victory over UCU Canons at YMCA court on Sunday. They led by eight points with five minutes to play only to let UCU back in with centre Desmond Owili scoring seven of his 11 points in the final period.
The university side clawed within two (67-69) and when Peter Elungat (16 points) made just one of his four free throws in the final two minutes, the old ghosts were visible. Unlike the loss to KIU and the 53-73 mauling at the hands of Warriors yet they were only down by seven at the start of the fourth, Falcons found a way.
Guard Geoff Omondi took charge with four of the final six points to sink his former side. Omondi had 12 points but only kept Sudi Ulanga to a game-high 20 points. However, its another former UCU player in Stephen Mwesigye who turned the game for Falcons. He made 10 points off the bench.
I am pleased with the way we handled ourselves when they closed the gap, Falcons coach Tony Oluka said.

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UKRAINE

Eurobasket.com All-Ukrainian Superleague Awards 2011-12 - by Eurobasket

All-Ukrainian Superleague 1st Team 2012

Curry

Culpepper

Morley

Guinn

King

Player of the Year: Ramel Curry (192-G-80) of BC Donetsk
Guard of the Year: Ramel Curry (192-G-80) of BC Donetsk
Forward of the Year: Zach Morley (203-F-83) of Budivelnyk
Center of the Year: Shawn King (208-C-82) of BC Odessa
Bosman Player of the Year: Vladan Vukosavljevic (206-F/C-84) of Halychyna
Import Player of the Year: Ramel Curry (192-G-80) of BC Donetsk
Domestic Player of the Year: Viacheslav Kravtsov (211-C-87) of BC Donetsk
Defensive Player of the Year: Vernon Goodridge (206-F-84) of BC Kyiv
Coach of the Year: Sasa Obradovic of BC Donetsk

1st Team
G: Randy Culpepper (182-89) of Ferro-ZNTU
G: Ramel Curry (192-80) of BC Donetsk
F: Zach Morley (203-83) of Budivelnyk
PF: R.T. Guinn (208-81) of Ferro-ZNTU
C: Shawn King (208-82) of BC Odessa

2nd Team
PG: Vule Avdalovic (189-81) of BC Donetsk
G: Jeremy Chappell (191-87) of Ferro-ZNTU
F: Reyshawn Terry (203-84) of Khimik
F/G: Matt Walsh (197-82) of Azovmash
C: Viacheslav Kravtsov (211-87) of BC Donetsk

Honorable Mention
Jerome Randle (178-PG-87) of Azovmash
Justin Love (189-G-78) of BC Odessa
Artur Drozdov (199-G-80) of Azovmash
Steven Burtt (185-G-84) of Dnipro
Darrel Mitchell (181-PG-84) of Khimik
Vladan Vukosavljevic (206-F/C-84) of Halychyna
Ivan Radenovic (208-F-84) of BC Donetsk
Oleksiy Pecherov (213-C-85) of Azovmash

All-Domestic Players Team
G: Artur Drozdov (199-80) of Azovmash
SF: Denis Ikovlev (201-86) of Khimik
F: Andriy Agafonov (207-86) of Budivelnyk
C: Oleksiy Pecherov (213-85) of Azovmash
C: Viacheslav Kravtsov (211-87) of BC Donetsk

All-Imports Team
G: Randy Culpepper (182-89) of Ferro-ZNTU
G: Ramel Curry (192-80) of BC Donetsk
F: Zach Morley (203-83) of Budivelnyk
PF: R.T. Guinn (208-81) of Ferro-ZNTU
C: Shawn King (208-82) of BC Odessa

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URUGUAY

Standings - Metropolitan League

Metropolitan Standings

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

Regular Season: Round 4

May. 28: Marne - Guruyu Waston 88-86
May. 28: Romis N. - Yale 74-70
May. 29: Goes - Capitol
May. 29: Larranaga - Cader
May. 29: Urunday Univ. - Verdirrojo

Uruguay claim second position at Super 4 tournament in Venezuela - by Eurobasket News

Uruguay celebrated two wins in three games played and occupied the second position at the annual Super 4 tournament in Venezuela. Uruguay are preparing for the upcoming South American Championship to be held in Argentina in mid-June.
Uruguay slowly started the tourney. They fell to ambitious Colombia 57:65 in the opener. Colombia strongly entered the game building a 38:24 lead. Uruguay could not recover in the second half allowing Colombia to earn the opening victory. Jayson Granger (186-G-89) posted 16 points to lead Uruguay. Joaquin Osimani (193-G-87) contributed 12 points in the losing effort.
Uruguay rebounded in the second game of the competition. They faced Chile and earned a hard-fought 58:52 win at the end.
Next Uruguay took on hosting Venezuela. The teams were tied at 12 after ten minutes but Uruguay increased the tempo in the second quarter and built a 31:23 halftime lead. Venezuela narrowed the margin to a single point at the final intermission but the visitors hang on to escape with a 65:56 win at the end. Jayson Granger delivered 13 points for the winners. Joaquin Osimani and Marcos Cabot (178-PG-89) added 8 points each for Uruguay. Yorman Zamora (190-F-89) answered with game-high 17 points for Venezuela.

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VENEZUELA

Venezuelan National Team 2012 - by Eurobasket

Starting five

Vasquez

Coronado

Herrera

Echenique

Guanipa

Greivis Vasquez

198-PG-87

N.Orleans H. USA

Juan Coronado

198-F-90

Lake Region CC USA

Danny Herrera

193-F-92

Duquesne

Gregory Echenique

205-C-90

Creighton

Heberto Guanipa

205-F-90

St.Thomas, FL USA

Anthony Perez

203-F-93

High School USA

Michael Carrera

198-F-93

High School USA

John Cox

195-G-81

Le Havre

Jhornan Zamora

193-G/F-89

B.de Rueda V. Spain

Heissler Guillent

186-PG-86

Guaros

Francisco Centeno

201-G/F-85

Gaiteros

Jesus Urbina

201-F-84

Toros

Michael Flores

192-G-85

Panteras

Luis Valera

201-F-88

Bucaneros

Jorge Rondon

193-G/F-90

Bucaneros

Jose Juan Bravo

202-C-86

Gigantes

Jesus Centeno

190-G-85

Cocodrilos Venezuela

Nestor Colmenares

203-F-87

Cocodrilos Venezuela

Luis Bethelmy

200-F/C-86

Cocodrilos Venezuela

Windi Graterol

203-F/C-86

Cocodrilos Venezuela

Hector Romero

202-F/C-80

Trotamundos Venezuela

David Cubillan

183-PG-87

Trotamundos Venezuela

Dwight Lewis

196-G-87

Trotamundos Venezuela

Rafael Perez

193-G/F-82

Trotamundos Venezuela

Axiers Sucre

198-F-78

Marinos

Oscar Torres

195-F/G-76

Marinos

Miguel Marriaga

208-C-84

Marinos

Jose Vargas

196-G/F-82

Marinos

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

Women News

Dandenong Rangers extends WNBL Grand Final MVP Kath MacLeod - by Eurobasket News

Dandenong Rangers announced very important news today. The reigning champion extended deal with WNBL Grand Final MVP Kathleen Macleod (167-G-86) for the next season. The 25-year-old guard will play her third straight season with the club. In the latest one she had 17.2 ppg, 7.5 apg and 4 apg for 22 games. MacLeod ended it as the fourth best scorer of the competition and No.1 in assists. She was awarded with Australiabasket.com All-Australian WNBL Player of the Year -12 and Dandenong Rangers won the championship title. In 2010/11, Kathleen Macleod had 15.4 ppg, 5.5 apg and 4 rpg for 20 games with the club. At that time she was awarded with Australiabasket.com All-Australian WNBL 2nd Team. Before Dandenong Rangers, MacLeod spent one season in France. In 2008/09, she played for the Hungarian team MKB Euroleasing Sopron and won the league title with them. They also reached Euroleague Semifinals. In the past, MacLeon played for Bendigo Spirit and Rangers. She is active member of the Australian National Team since 2006.

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BELGIUM

Canada won over Belgium to finish their European tour - by Eurobasket News

Canada won over Belgium to finish their European tour. In the final game versus Team Belgium and in their season, Canada squeaked by with a 58:55 victory. The Canadian Senior Womens B Team finished with a 1-3-1 record on their European trip.
It was another tough game and the teams exchanged the lead several times. Canada won the end of the game and sealed 3-point win. Korissa Williams (177-G-92) led the way for Canada with 11 points in the game. Justine Colley (175-G-91) followed with 10 points. Hendrickx and Rosseel ended up with 9 points each in the losing effort and Emma Meesseman posted 8. Strubbe scored 7 and Raman delivered 6.
In Game 1 the teams scored 66 points each. Emma Meesseman (192-C-93, agency: LBM Management) scored 15 points for Belgium and RAMAN Janaa netted 11. RAINCOCK posted 18 points for the Canadian team. Later Belgium overcame Canada 73:72 in the second game between two sides.

Spirou Monceau bring Chloe Westelynck and Jessica Van Hoof - by Eurobasket News

Spirou Monceau bring Chloe Westelynck (188-F-91) and Jessica Van Hoof for the next season. As expected the team added two young players to the roster.
Chloe Westelynck started her career in 2006-2007 for Centre Federal BB II (NF2). In 2009-2010 she moved to
Strasbourg Illkirch-Graffenstaden (NF1) and in 2010-2011 for Strasbourg Illkirch-Graffenstaden averaged 4.6ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.0apg. In 2011-2012 for Strasbourg Illkirch-Graffenstaden (LF2) her stats read 1.6 points per game.
Jessica Van Hoof comes from NDD Leuven (L2).
Earlier the team extended Melissa Dalembert (191-F-87, college: S.Florida). The Canadian player started the season 2011-2012 for LKS Siemens AGD Lodz (Poland-PLKK, starting five) and in Polish League averaged 10.5ppg, Reb-1 (10.1rpg), 1.0spg, FGP: 41.3%, FT: 51.9%. In Mar.'12 she moved to Spirou Monceau Charleroi (Belgium-D1, starting five) and in 2 games had 8.5ppg, 12.5rpg, 1.5spg. The season 2012-2013 she will spend with Spirou Monceau Charleroi (Belgium-D1).

Basket Groot Willebroek add Ellen Lauwers - by Eurobasket News

Basket Groot Willebroek add Ellen Lauwers (182-F-87) for the next season. The Belgian Forward moves from BBC Kangoeroes-Boom where she spent last three seasons.
In 2002-2005 Ellen Lauwers appeared for Sint Kateline Waver (D1) and stayed for 4 seasons. In 2008-2009 she moved to Novia Munalux Namur (D1, starting five)and in Belgian League Stage-1 averaged 9.8ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.5spg, 2FGP: 40.0%, 3PT: 28.9%, FT: 50.8%. In Belgian League Poule-B her stats read 9 games: 9.1ppg, 4.0rpg, 2.1spg.
In 2009-2010 moved to BBC Kangoeroes-Boom (D1) and in the first season showed 9.7ppg, 2.3rpg, 2FGP: 44.0%, 3PT: 29.6%, FT: 62.3%. In
2010-2011 for BBC Kangoeroes-Boom (D1) her stats read 7.5ppg, 2.3rpg, FGP: 37.1%, 3PT: 25.3%, FT: 60.3%. Last season Ellen Lauwers averaged 5.4ppg, 1.8rpg, FGP: 34.4%, 3PT: 25.3%, FT: 62.2%.
Ellen Lauwers recorded 17 points in the game versus Blue Cats. That time her team won 81:67 over the opponent.

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CANADA

CHILE

Ziomara Morrison signs contract with Rivas Ecopolis, Spain - by Eurobasket News

Ziomara Morrison (193-C-89, agency: Regeneracom Sports) signed a one-year deal with Spanish team Rivas Ecopolis. The Chilean superstar is currently a member of the WNBA team San Antonio Silver Stars. She will move to Rivas Ecopolis at the end of the WNBA season. Morrison made her WNBA debut last Friday against the Connecticut Sun.
Ziomara Morrison is not a new face in Spain as she spent last three seasons there. She was a member of Arranz-Jopisa Burgos from 2010 until April this year. She had 14.3 ppg and 10.6 rpg for them in 26 LFB games this season. Morrison was third best rebounder of the league and was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Spanish LFB Honorable Mention -12. In 2011, she helped Burgos to win the promotion from LF2 to LFB. Before Burgos, Ziomara Morrison played for Leon. She also has experience from Italian Banco di Sicilia Ribera. Morrison is active member of the Chilean National Team since 2006.

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CUBA

The cubans start training on their way to Centrobasket - by Eurobasket News

Havana, Cuba -The 14 girls chosen to the preselection of the Cuban National Team by coach Alberto Zabala , have started to tweak their game on their way to the 2012 Centrobasket, with emphasis on working on their main weaknesses and concentrated in their rivals in group B.

The women's basketball pre-selection is training at full speeg in the High Performance Centre in Cerro Pelado, in the capital.

'We are not a very tall team and therefore we need to put more attention on defense and counterattacks. Weapons that have historically characterized the Cuban ensembles,' said the coach.

According to Zabala, the average age of this concentration is 24 years old and, as has become customary in recent cycles, has an interesting mix of experienced players and newcomers to the squad, but with excellent conditions.

He also said that the main objective is to claim one of four tickets for the 2013 FIBA Americas Championship.

The strong opponents to consider will be Puerto Rico, Mexico and Dominican Republic. Cuba travel to the venue on June 10, with 12 players, and its first opponent will be Trinidad and Tobago.

The preselected players are:

Oyanaisis Gelis, Arlenis Romero, Yamara Bitter, Isln Carbonell, Taim Fernandez Suchitel Avila, Marlen Cepeda (193-C-85), Leydis Oquendo, Lisdeyvis Martinez, Lazara Moses, Arlenis Gonzalez Casanova Ineidi, Edith Thompson (190-C-91) and Anisleydys Galindo (179-G-89).

Head Coach: Alberto Zabala . Assistant: Eduardo Moya. Doctor: Javier Delgado.
Source: Press Juventud Rebelde

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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Dominican's female team are training - by Eurobasket News

Dominican Republic - The preparation of the National Female Team of Dominicans Basketball, who will participate in the Centrobasket 2012, is underway. The players are in full daily training sessions in the afternoon at the Palacio de los Deportes Virgilio Travieso Soto.

Every day from 4:00 pm, the Dominican Selection meets under the direction of Radhams Paulino (Memi), who is the head leader, assisted by Luis Rojas.

Meanwhile, the Dominican Basketball Federation (Fedombal) appointed a new general manager of the major women's national team.

The engineer Rafael Uribe, president of Fedombal, reported that they appointed the business and sportsman Ral Pena, in the position of general manager of the tricolor team that will compete in the next Championship Centrobasket, to be held from 12 to 16 June in the Municipality of Morovis, Puerto Rico.

Uribe highlighted the qualities of Pea for the position of general manager, because he is a sportsman, especially in basketball, and who also belongs to the National Teams Committee.

'It's a great supporter of basketball and that's why we have taken into account because we believe he will contribute much to the country,' said Uribe.

He said that 'immediately we communicate to Pea his designation and he gladly accepted and he said that he already will integrates those efforts.'

Source: Odalis Snchez/Dominicanos en Basket

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GERMANY

Germany edge Serbia in third game - by Eurobasket News

Germany - Serbia 85:81

Germany finally celebrated victory in the test series against Serbia. The hosts earned an 85:81 win in Game 3 to lose the series 1-2. Katharina Fikiel (193-F/C-87) knocked down 17 points to lead the effort.
Germany enjoyed a powerful start to the game. They accumulated a 25:21 lead after ten minutes. The hosts stretched the margin in the second frame. Germany built a 49:43 halftime lead. But Serbia denied the deficit in the third stanza. The Balkan team held the home side to 15 points in the period to take a one-point advantage at the third intermission. But Germany ignited a 21:16 run in the fourth period to seal the victory. Sarah Austmann (179-G/F-85) and Anne Breitreiner (183-G/F-84, agency: LBM Management) accounted for 16 points each for the winners. Ivanka Matic (195-F/C-79, agency: LBM Management) answered with 16 points for Serbia. Milica Ivanovic (175-G-88, college: Catawba) had 15 points in the loss.

Germany: Katharina Fikiel 17, Anne Breitreiner 16, Sarah Austmann 16
Serbia: Ivanka Matic 16, Milica Ivanovic 15

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HOLLAND

Sengers announces first five for Euro2012 roster - by Bas Hendriks

Dutch National Headcoach of the girls U16 team announced the first five players that can prepare for this years Europeans in Hungary later this summer.

The annoucement was made after a first serious test in Le Poinconnet (Fra) where the Dutch team showed decent improvement over the games, resulting in All Star selections for two of the first five named player. Pointguard Laura Cornelius (174-PG-96) of CTO Amsterdam and her parttime teammate Emese Hof (center) are amongst the first five of the team that will feature Anke Rikhof (Eurosped Twente), Fenne van der Wielen ( Lekdetec.nl) and Deborah Vos (Stol Grasshoppers) as well

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ISRAEL

Kaili McLaren moved to Ramat Hasharon - by Eurobasket News

Kaili McLaren (188-F-88, college: Connecticut) moved to Ramat Hasharon for 2012/2013 season. According to http://lovewomensbasketball.com American power forward joined the Israeli team.
Kaili McLaren started her career in 2006-2007 for Connecticut (NCAA) and in 35 games averaged 3.6ppg, 3.5rpg, 1.1apg. In her last season there she averaged 3.0ppg, 2.0rpg, 1.6apg. In 2010-2011 moved to Apollon Ptolemaidos (Greece-A1, starting five) and after 22 games became the top-scorer of the league with 17.8ppg, Reb-1 (13.3rpg), 2.5apg, 1.0spg, Blocks-4 (1.1bpg), FGP: 52.8%, 3PT: 10.5%, FT: 78.4%. In 2011-2012 she headed to Hapoel Petah Tikva and became the second top-scorer. She recorded 21.0ppg, 9.5rpg, 2.4apg, Blocks-2 (1.9bpg), FGP: 54.6%, 3PT: 21.4%, FT: 78.8%.
In her top game Kaili McLaren erupted with 31 points. Her former Hap.Petah Tikva lost to Hapoel T-A 81:88.

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LATVIA

Lithuania edge Latvia in Riga - by Eurobasket News

Latvia - Lithuania 74:79

Lithuania overcame Latvia in the friendly encounter in Riga. Gintare Petronyte (196-C-89) stepped up with 24 points and 10 rebounds to lead the visitors.
Lithuania surged ahead early in the game. The visitors piled up a 29:16 lead after ten minutes. Latvia stopped the rot in the second term. They adjusted defensively to narrow the deficit at just 2 points 41:43 at halftime. But Lithuania pulled ahead in the third term again. The visitors made it 63:55 at the final break. Latvia cut the distance in the fourth term but came up short of victory at the end. Giedre Paugaite (192-C-90) posted 14 points and 11 rebounds for Lithuania. Marina Solopova (180-G/F-90) had 11 points in the victory. Kristine Karklina (175-G-83, agency: Regeneracom Sports) answered with 17 points for Latvia. Aija Putnina (192-F/C-88, agency: Josep and Nicolas) netted 15 points in the loss.
Latvia: Kristine Karklina 17, Aija Putnina 15
Lithuania: Gintare Petronyte 24+10 boards, Giedre Paugaite 14+11 boards, Marina Solopova 11

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LITHUANIA

MONTENEGRO

Eshaya Murphy to join NT on June 8, instead of June 4 - by Eurobasket News

Eshaya Murphy (182-G/F-85, college: USC) will join the Montenegrin NT on June 8 instead of June 4. She is now set to join the team 5 days before the beginning of the 2013 EuroBasket Qualifications. It starts on June 13 and Montenegro will play all of their games until July 11, when Murphy will return to the USA. She is currently a member of the WNBA team Chicago Sky and will play for them this summer. Due to obligations with Montenegrin NT, Eshaya Murphy will miss something more than 10 WNBA games this season. It is also important to mention that Murphy will not fight for the spot in Montenegro, as Anna de Forge will not be part of the team this year, so Murphy will be the only naturalized player. Eshaya Murphy won the Euroleague and Spanish league titles with Ros Casares last season. She had 10.8 ppg and 3.4 rpg for 20 Euroleague games. Murphy also added 13.4 ppg, 4.6 rpg and 1.9 spg for 30 games in Spanish LFB. Murphy already appeared in two WNBA games this season registering 5 ppg and 1.5 apg.

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PUERTO RICO

Puerto Rico defeats Czech Republic in first warm-up: - by Luis Modestti

Puerto Rico defeated the Czech Republic 66-54 in the first of two warm-up games as they prepare for the FIBA Olympic Qualifier. The second game is on Wednesday at 12:00PM Eastern Time.

Jazmine Sepulveda (186-G-85, agency: Merit Sports, college: S.Florida) had 16, Carla Cortijo (173-G-87, college: Texas) 14, Marie Placido (182-F-87) 13 and Carla Escalera (180-PF-84) 6 for the Puerto Ricans who completely dominated the second half.

The first half ended 37-35 for the hosts. Then in the second half Puerto Rico made a great defensive effort, holding them to just 17 points to get the win.

Kamila Stepanova (191-C-88) had 12 for Czech Republic who is ranked fourth in the World by FIBA.

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SERBIA

ADRIATIC LEAGUE NEWS: - by Tamara Ruzic

Adriatic League will have 12 teams this coming season . The clubs will play the league from six different countries :
Serbia ( Hemofarm Vrsac, Partizan Galenika, Radivoj Korac and Vozdovac from Belgrade, Vojvodina from Novi Sad )
Slovenia ( Merkur from Celje and Illyria)
Bosnia and Herzegovina ( Mladi Krajisnik from Banja Luka and Celik from Zenica
Croatia: Novi Zagreb
Montenegro: Buducnost from Podgorica
Hungary: Pecs 2010

The title will defend Partizan from Belgrade,Serbia

Germany edge Serbia in third game - by Eurobasket News

Germany - Serbia 85:81

Germany finally celebrated victory in the test series against Serbia. The hosts earned an 85:81 win in Game 3 to lose the series 1-2. Katharina Fikiel (193-F/C-87) knocked down 17 points to lead the effort.
Germany enjoyed a powerful start to the game. They accumulated a 25:21 lead after ten minutes. The hosts stretched the margin in the second frame. Germany built a 49:43 halftime lead. But Serbia denied the deficit in the third stanza. The Balkan team held the home side to 15 points in the period to take a one-point advantage at the third intermission. But Germany ignited a 21:16 run in the fourth period to seal the victory. Sarah Austmann (179-G/F-85) and Anne Breitreiner (183-G/F-84, agency: LBM Management) accounted for 16 points each for the winners. Ivanka Matic (195-F/C-79, agency: LBM Management) answered with 16 points for Serbia. Milica Ivanovic (175-G-88, college: Catawba) had 15 points in the loss.

Germany: Katharina Fikiel 17, Anne Breitreiner 16, Sarah Austmann 16
Serbia: Ivanka Matic 16, Milica Ivanovic 15

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TURKEY

Melisa Can heads to Tarsus Belediyesi - by Eurobasket News

Melisa Can (188-F-84, college: Rutgers) heads to Tarsus Belediyesi for the next season. The American Forward according to http://lovewomensbasketball.com will move from Galatasaray M.P. Istanbul. She also received a Turkish citizenship. Tarsus are set to play in play-out tournament for two spots in the league before the TKBL regular season starts.
In 2010-2011 Melisa Can joined Galatasaray Istanbul (Turkey-TKBL) and in Euroleague after 12 games averaged 5.4ppg, 5.0rpg, FGP: 40.3%, FT: 78.9%. In Turkish League her stats read 7.5ppg, 6.2rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 52.1%, FT: 61.7%.
In 2011-2012 for Galatasaray M.P. Istanbul (Turkey-TKBL, starting five) she played only 1 game in Euroleague. In Turkish League after 30 games she averaged 5.3ppg, 3.3rpg, FGP: 48.5%, FT: 65.1%. Melisa Can recorded 18 points in the game versus Ceyhan Bld. That time she added 4 rebounds and 3 assists in a 96:63 win.

'TKB2L Player of the Year' Aysegul Gunay joins Kayseri KASKI - by Eurobasket News

Aysegul Gunay (172-PG-92) officially became a new member of Kayseri KASKI. The TKB2L Player of the Year signed a deal for the next season. Gunay played the last one for Cankaya Universitesi and was MVP of the league. Before Cankaya, she spent one year with Besiktas, but played mostly for their junior team. Gunay also played for Fenerbahce juniors in the past. Aysegul Gunay is a member of U20 Turkish National Team. Last summer at U20 EuroBasket in Serbia she had 2.1 ppg for 8 games. In 2009 and 2010, Gunay played for U18 national Team. She shined at U18 EuroBasket in Slovakia with 8.9 ppg, 3 rpg and 2.5 apg. In 2009, at U18 EuroBasket in Sodertalje the player had 6.5 ppg, 2.8 rpg, 2.3 spg for 6 games.

Erdemit lands American PF/C Tiffany Stansbury - by Eurobasket News

Tiffany Stansbury (191-F/C-83, college: N.Carolina St.) returned to Turkey. The American power forward/center signed a one-year deal with Erdemit. This season she was named Eurobasket.com All-Italian A1 2nd Team. Stansbury was a member of Liomatic Umbertide averaging 10.1 points and 7 rebounds. She helped them reach the Italian Cup Semifinals. With the same team, Tiffany Stansbury reached Italian league Semifinals and Cup Finals in 2011. Before Umbertide, she played for the French team Pays d'Aix Basket 13 Provence. There she had 14.8 ppg, 8.4 rpg and 2 apg for 21 games in 2009/10 LFB season. In 2008, Stansbury was named Power Forward of the Year in France. Tiffany Stansbury already has experience from Turkey as she played for Cankaya in 2006/07 season. It was her first year as a pro and the player averaged 14.4 points, plus 11.8 rebounds.

Ceyhan brings in Tugce Inoentepe - by Eurobasket News

Ceyhan announced signing of Tugce Inoentepe (173-G-87, agency: 1x1 Sports). The Turkish guard arrives to the club from Mersin, where she spent last two seasons. In the latest one she had 4.2 ppg, 2 rpg and 1.7 apg for 26 TKBL games. Mersin reached TKBL and Cup Semifinals. In 2010/11, Inoentepe had much better numbers. In 24 appearances she averaged 8.1 points, 3 rebounds and 2.8 assists. Before Mersin, Tugce Inoentepe played for Kocaeli, Tarsus, Fenerbahce and Migrosspor. With Migrosspor she won the Turkish Cup trophy in 2006. The guard did the same also in 2008 with Fenerbahce. In the past, Tugce Inoentepe played for Turkish University NT and also for U18 and U16 squads.

Edrine Spor signs Gamze Karatas and Yasemin Ibek - by Eurobasket News

Gamze Karatas (196-C-89) and Yasemin Ibek (G-91) are new members of Edrine Spor. They signed a deal for the next season.
Gamze Karatas arrives to Edrine from Samsun, where she spent last season. However, Karatas had very limited playing time with Samsun and actually appeared only four times in the league. Before Samsun, the player spent three years with Besiktas. She also was a member of the Turkish U20 National Team.
Yasemin Ibek joins Edrine Spot from Izmirspot Konak Bld. She also has experience from Antakya, Cehyhan and Galatasaray. With Antakya, Ibek was TKB2L Play-Off runner-up in 2011. In the past, Ibek played for U16 Turkish NT.

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WBCBL

St. Louis Surge Electrifies Community at May Day Parade - by Willie McCray

The sun shined brightly May 20 as floats and bands took the streets headed east along Market Street between Jefferson and Broadway in downtown St. Louis, during the 124th Annual Annie Malone May Day Parade.

Surge, players, staff, volunteers, coaches and members of the Surge Kids Club walked in the parade. Walking in the special guest section with KMJM Majic 104.9 and Hallelujah 1600, the Surge distributed more than 4000 flyers and team schedules.

Throughout the street people were cheering while bands played and marched to the sound of their music, dance teams danced as various businesses gave out promotional items. However, with all the sounds, there was one distinct sound; Majic 104.9 blasting music and promoting the St. Louis Surges second home basketball game of the season, which is scheduled for June 2 against the Chicago Lady Steam at 7:00 p.m. at the University of Missouri - St. Louis.

This is what the Surge is all about, said St. Louis Surge Owner and General Manager, Khalia Collier. The Surge wants to give hope and excitement to girls and boys all over Missouri by participating in various community events, showing that women's sports are still alive. Walking in the parade was a key component of reaching kids and families in the St. Louis community.

The mission of the Annie Malone May Day Parade is to improve the quality of life for children, families, elderly and the community by providing social services, educational programs, advocacy and entrepreneurship. Since its early years, the parade has been a major event for St. Louis' African-American community, which encompasses a distinguished part of African-American heritage.

Pictured (left to right): Rita Adams (#4, guard); Khalia Collier, St. Louis Surge Owner and General Manager; and Kari Koch (#1, guard). Picture taken by Majic 104.9.

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WNBA

Standings

WNBA Standings

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

Regular Season: Round 7

May. 29: L.Angeles S. - Tulsa S. 76-75
May. 30: Washington M. - Minnesota L.
May. 30: S.Antonio SS - Chicago S.
May. 31: Atlanta D. - Phoenix M.

Catchings, Parker earn WNBA weekly honors - by Eurobasket News

Indiana's Tamika Catchings (6'1''-F-79, college: Tennessee) and Los Angeles' Candace Parker (6'4''-F/C-86, college: Tennessee) have been named the WNBA's Eastern and Western Conference players of the week, respectively, for games played May 18-27.

Catchings, the reigning MVP, picked up her 15th player of the week award. She led the Fever to a 3-0 record for the opening week of the season by averaging 21 points and 7.3 rebounds.

Parker, who won the award for a sixth time, led her team to a 3-1 mark for the week. She led the league in blocks (2.7 bpg), ranked third in the Western Conference in scoring (20.5 ppg), and tied for third in rebounds (7.8 rpg).

Other candidates for the weekly award were Atlanta's Angel McCoughtry, Chicago's Sylvia Fowles, Connecticut's Tina Charles, and Washington's Crystal Langhorne in the East, as well as Minnesota's Seimone Augustus, Phoenix's Candice Dupree, San Antonio's Shameka Christon, and Tulsa's Ivory Latta in the West.

Courtesy of www.canada.com

Toliver's 3 at the buzzer gives Sparks 76-75 win over Shock - by Eurobasket News

Kristi Toliver (5'7''-PG-87, college: Maryland) was suffering through one of the worst games of her career before coming up big for the Sparks in the end

Toliver sank a 3-pointer at the buzzer to give the Los Angeles Sparks a 76-75 victory against the Tulsa Shock on Tuesday night.

The Sparks appeared headed for defeat when Temeka Johnson (5'3''-PG-82, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: LSU) made a pair of free throws to give Tulsa a 75-71 lead with 16.7 seconds remaining. Toliver made a turnaround jump shot before Tulsa's Karima Christmas (6'0''-G/F-89, college: Duke) missed two free throws to give the Sparks a chance.

Nnemkadi Ogwumike (6'2''-F-90, college: Stanford) rebounded the miss and got it to Toliver, who drove down the left side and put up a shot over Ivory Latta (5'6''-PG-84, college: N.Carolina) as the home crowd erupted in celebration. It was redemptive for Toliver after she committed a WNBA record 14 turnovers.

It feels good, Toliver said. Throughout that game I was just letting my teammates down by being careless with the ball . I was making boneheaded plays.

Toliver and DeLisha Milton-Jones each scored 16 points and Ogwumike added 14 points and seven rebounds for the Sparks, who won despite committing 28 turnovers. Candace Parker sat on the bench for a large stretch of the fourth quarter and finished with 10 points and 10 rebounds.

Good teams just find a way, Sparks coach Carol Ross said. I told (Toliver) in the locker room, Nothing else can go wrong for you. Youve used up all your wrong chips. It was time for something good to happen. For her to be able to keep her head up and have the confidence to take the shot says a lot about her character.

It was another last-second heartbreak loss for Tulsa, which remains winless at 0-4.

Johnson sank a 3-pointer to give Tulsa a 70-69 lead and made four free throws in the final 20.1 seconds, the last two for a 75-71 edge. Riquna Williams came off the bench to score 19 points but Tulsa lost its eighth straight game dating to last season.

It hurts, Williams said. Teary. Painful. (Its) emotional but its not going to stop us.

Tulsa has trouble closing out games. It lost to Washington on Saturday despite going on a 14-0 run in the fourth quarter and to Phoenix last Tuesday in the final seconds.

Last possession, rebounds, Williams said. Weve got to box out. Were not big, but we just cant jump up there and get it. Weve got to find a body.

Williams scored eight of Tulsas 19 points in the third quarter to help Tulsa come out of it with a 55-52 lead. She made the last of three consecutive baskets on a 3-pointer gave the Shock its first lead at 45-44.

Tulsa fell into an 11-0 hole to start the game and shot 30 percent from the field in the first half but clawed back to trail, 40-36, at halftime. Latta made a 3-pointer to cap a 10-2 run and the Shock held the Sparks to two field goals in the final five minutes of the first half.

Johnson had 13 points. Tulsa rookie Glory Johnson, the fourth pick in last years draft, was matched up at times with No.1 pick Ogwumike and finished with seven points.

Courtesy of www.washingtonpost.com