EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 5/6/2012 1:04:01 AM

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Men News

*****************************************************
  ALGERIA   



2013 Afro-Basket qualifiers: Algeria brace up in Serbia - by Eurobasket News

Some 14 players of the Algeria national basketball team have begun a training camp in Serbia.

Some 14 players of the Algeria national basketball team have begun a training camp in Serbia. The session aims at preparing the players for the qualifying tournament of the 2013 Afro-Basket championship. The qualifying tournament which takes place in Alger in July brings together Zone one countries like Algeria, Morocco and Libya. The 2012 Afro-Basket championship will be hosted by Ivory Coast.

List of Algerian players in Serbia

Nedjmeddine Belkacemi, Abdelhalim Kaouane (180-G-81) (CSM Constantine), Mohamed Harrat, Touhami Ghazoul, Yanis Mostefa, Hocine Gaham (194-G/F-86), Djilali Canon, Nabil Sadi and Seddik Touati (GS Ptroliers), Mohamed Zerouali (191-G-90) and Fayal Belkhodja (WA Boufarik), Adel Yeza (AB Skikda), Mohamed Lamine Esseghir (USA), Amir Boucena (Estonia).
Courtesy of: StarAfrica.com



*****************************************************
  ANGOLA   


Petro De Luanda Sack Coach Alberto Babo - by Eurobasket News

Luanda The Portuguese Alberto Babo was sacked as the coach of the senior males basketball team of Petro de Luanda, Angop learnt on Wednesday from an official source.

According to the source, the players were only informed about the coach's dismissal on Wednesday morning before the training session.

Angop learnt that the assistant coach Manuel da Silva will be the caretaker of the team until the end of the season.

Petro de Luanda occupy the third position in the national championship with 5 points in a competition led by 1 de Agosto with seven points.

Courtesy of: Angola Press



Recreativo Do Libolo Beat Petro De Luanda - by Eurobasket News

Luanda Recreativo do Libolo beato n Thursday Petro de Luanda by 93-78 at Luanda's Cidadela pavilion, in the fourth round of the national senior males basketball championship (BAIBasket2012).

With this result, Recreativo do Libolo co-lead the competition with 1 de Agosto both with eight points, while Petro de Luanda remain third with six points.
Courtesy of: Angola Press



1 De Agosto Lose to Interclube - by Eurobasket News

Luanda 1 de Agosto lost on Thursday to Interclube by 71-79 in Luanda in the fourth round of the national senior males basketball championship (BAIBasket).

In the first half, both teams were held in 35-35 draw.
Courtesy of: Angola Press



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

Stats Leaders - LigaA

Points Per Game
 Joe SMITH
  La Union
  (193-G-77)
  Avg: 17.3
 1. Smith, La Union17.3 
 2. Gutierrez, Obras16.7 
 3. Villegas, Sionista16.6 
 4. McHopson, Quilm.16.3 
 5. OBannon, Boca Jrs16.1 
 6. DeGroat, Olimpico.15.8 
 7. Quinteros, Regat.15.6 
 8. Martinez, San M.15.6 
 9. Pittman, Libertad.15.3 
 10. Meyinsse, Wuber-.15.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jack Michael MARTINEZ
  San M.
  (203-F/C-81)
  Avg: 12.4
 1. Martinez, San M.12.4 
 2. Battle, Libertad S.9.9 
 3. Davis, GECR I.9.5 
 4. Sandes, Sionista9.1 
 5. Lloreda, Olimpico.8.8 
 6. Gutierrez, Obras8.4 
 7. Williams, Quimsa7.6 
 8. DeGroat, Olimpico.7.5 
 9. Truscott, Quilm.7.3 
 10. Rollins, Sionista7.1 
Assists Per Game
 Facundo CAMPAZZO
  Penarol
  (179-PG-91)
  Avg: 6
 1. Campazzo, Penarol6.0 
 2. Sanchez, Wuber-.5.5 
 3. Stanic, Boca Jrs5.5 
 4. Cequeira, Sionista4.8 
 5. Martinez, Regat.4.7 
 6. Laprovittola, Lanus3.8 
 7. Sucatzky, Atenas3.7 
 8. Victoriano, San M.3.7 
 9. Labaque, Atenas3.4 
 10. Ciorciari, GECR I.3.4 
Steals Per Game
 Matias LESCANO
  Atenas
  (196-G/F-79)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Lescano, Atenas2.3 
 2. Campazzo, Penarol2.2 
 3. Quinteros, Regat.1.8 
 4. Moldu, Olimpico LB1.7 
 5. McHopson, Quilm.1.6 
 6. Sanchez, Wuber-.1.5 
 7. Ciorciari, GECR I.1.5 
 8. Torre, Club 91.4 
 9. Treise, Libertad S.1.4 
 10. Stanic, Boca Jrs1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Robert BATTLE
  Libertad S.
  (204-C-81)
  Avg: 1.5
 1. Battle, Libertad S.1.5 
 2. Clancy, Club 91.2 
 3. Meyinsse, Wuber-.1.2 
 4. Rollins, Sionista1.2 
 5. Gutierrez, Obras1.1 
 6. Matthews, Quilm.1.0 
 7. Roe, Regatas C.1.0 
 8. Ayarza, Club 90.9 
 9. Rollins, San M.0.9 
 10. Garces, Atenas0.9 


Liga A: Penarol eliminates Libertad, joins Obras in the Finals - by Eurobasket News

Libertad - Penarol 85-88

Fourth game of the Liga A Semifinals between Libertad and Penarol was played last night. Visitors were better 85-88 winning the series with almost perfect 3-1. Obras eliminated Regatas on Wednesday, so Penarol and Obras will fight for Liga A title this season. The format is best-of-seven and first game is scheduled for May 14. Obras will have a home court advantage in this series (2-2-1-1-1). Facundo Campazzo (179-PG-91) led Penarol to victory with 22 points and 7 rebounds. Marcos Mata (201-F-86) had 17 points and 8 boards, while Kyle Lamonte (191-G-84, college: William Carey) helped his team with 17 points and 6 rebs. The hosts got 26 points and 9 rebs from Will Graves (198-F/G-88, college: N.Carolina). Fernando Calvi (200-F-81) and Jonatan Treise (186-PG-85) netted 13 points each. Quarters: 20-21, 26-23, 17-20, 22-24.

Libertad: Will Graves 26+9 boards, Fernando Calvi 13, Jonatan Treise 13
Penarol: Facundo Campazzo 22+7 boards, Marcos Mata 17+8 boards, Kyle Lamonte 17+6 boards



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

Standings

O Standings
 1. Petron Blaze 16-4 
 2. Philip.Patriots 15-5 
 3. KL Dragons 11-9 
 4. Satria Muda 10-9 
 5. Singapore S. 8-11 
 6. Saigon H. 7-12 
 7. Bangkok C. 6-13 
 8. Thailand S. 5-15 

Regular Season: Round 20

May. 5: KL Dragons - Thailand S. 94-79
May. 5: Philip.Patriots - Singapore S. 90-84
May. 2: Saigon H. - Bangkok C. 77-69
May. 6: Bangkok C. - Satria Muda
May. 6: Saigon H. - Petron Blaze



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

Standings - ABA

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

Regular Season: Round 7

BIG V

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

SEABL

May. 4: Mt Gambier - Knox R. 100-91
May. 5: Canberra G. - Frankston B.
May. 5: Dandenong - Brisbane S.
May. 5: Geelong S. - NW Tasmania
May. 5: Ballarat M. - Hobart C.
May. 5: Albury W.B. - Kilsyth C.
May. 6: Bendigo B. - Brisbane S.
May. 6: Knox R. - Albury W.B.
May. 6: Nunawading S. - NW Tasmania
May. 6: Sandringham S. - Hobart C.

WARATAH

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


Khazzouh, Bose to depart Sydney Kings for Europe - by Eurobasket News

The Sydney Kings announced today that Julian Khazzouh (209-C-86) will be pursuing a career in Europe and would not re-sign with the club for the 2012-2013 NBL season.

Head Coach, Shane Heal said that while everyone at the Sydney Kings is naturally disappointed that Julian Khazzouh is leaving, the kudos it gave the club as a proving ground for European and NBA leagues was one positive to come out of his departure.

'We understand Julian Khazzouh wants to further his career in Europe; and we are pleased to have played a small part in his success,' Heal said.

'Playing in Europe is a brilliant opportunity for Julian. I played in Europe after my time as a player with the Sydney Kings and the experience will definitely make him a better, more rounded player. We wish Julian every success,' he added.

'Every club in the NBL should be looking holistically at the careers of all of their players and helping them to achieve their goals, be it in basketball, business, or education. That is part of our role to mentor and develop players. Seeing them succeed in Europe and America is a big plus for our game in Australia.'

Speaking about his decision to pursue a career in Europe, the former Sydney Kings Captain, Julian Khazzouh, said that he has loved every minute of being a Sydney king.

'I have met some great mates who I will be friends with for life; but the best parts for me would be being named Sydney Kings' Captain and also winning the players player award,' Khazzouh said.

'I also want to pay tribute to the Sydney Kings coaching staff who have been the most influential part of my career at the Sydney Kings? Both Ian 'Moose' Robilliard and Tim Hudson had enough faith in me to bring me into the team have and helped me to become the player I am today,' he added.

'The Sydney Kings is a great club and I would you say to other players who are thinking of playing at the Sydney Kings that everybody wants to beat the Sydney Kings, so be prepared to get heckled and tormented on every road trip. In saying that, the Sydney Kings also have the best and most loyal fans in the NBL and, win or lose; they show lots of love to their team.

'I would definitely consider playing in Australia in the future and would love to come back and play for the Sydney Kings once again after my time in Europe is over,' Khazzouh said

Shane Heal said that with the departure of Khazzouh and Anatoly Bose (200-G/F-88, agency: Priority Sports, college: Nicholls St.), the club was in a good position to restructure the on-court team.

'We knew in early March that Khazzouh and Bose could potentially be playing in Europe next season, so we have already targeted a few players to take up their positions with the Sydney Kings,' Shane said.

'This is basketball. As a coaching staff, we have to prepare for changes to the roster. It happens every season. It is not whom we lose that is important, but who we find to replace them.

'The roster we put in place at the Sydney Kings for the 2012-2013 season is already looking very strong and competitive. I am looking at the line up as a team with play-off potential and can't wait for training to begin.

'The Sydney Kings will follow Khazzouh's careers over the next few seasons and, you never know, he might yet pull on the number six singlet again in the future,' Shane said.

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



Crocs re-sign Ben Allen for 2012/13 - by Eurobasket News

The Townsville McDonalds Crocodiles can today announce they have re-signed back up centre Benjamin Allen (211-C-86, college: St.Mary's, CA) for the 2012/13 season.

Allen extends his contract with the Crocs for one more year and Crocodiles CEO Ian Smythe believes it is a good move given Schenschers recent departure.

'There arent too many 611' men available around the country at the moment,' Smythe said.

'Bens started to show he is the player we recruited two years ago and wants the chance to show he has both the ability and drive to make it in the NBL.'

Allens recent show of form at the back end of the 2011/12 season is due to the hours spent with mentor and Crocs legend Pat Reidy putting in extra training sessions.

Its this commitment along with his caliber as a St Marys College alumni that have earned him a place on the Crocodiles roster.

The AIS graduate is excited about a third year with the Crocs and is keen to put in the hard work required.

'The Crocs is exactly where I want to be, I didnt have to think twice about the offer at all,' Allen said

'I do feel its a second chance for me, and I am going to take this opportunity the Crocs have given me and work to improve on my game in the off season.'

Allen will now travel south to Ipswich to play in the QBL in the Crocs off season, before returning for pre season training in July.

The Crocs now have five players contracted, with the services of Benjamin Allen, Mitch Norton, Todd Blanchfield, Jacob Holmes and Russell Hinder all now secured for the 2012/13 season.

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



SEABL: Tom Garlepp have claimed the Peoples Choice Awards for Round 6 - by Eurobasket News

Tom Garlepp (203-F-86, college: UCSB) have claimed the Peoples Choice Awards for Round 6. Natalie and Tom now advance to the finals for the Peoples Choice Award. The finals of the Peoples Choice Award will be held in a knockout format over the duration of the playoffs in August in September.

The players that missed out this week return to the player pool and can be nominations in the upcoming rounds. The winners from this week however are no longer eligible for the weekly nominations.

Tom polled an impressive 61% of the votes, ahead of John Philip (198-F-82) on 30% and Brandon Polk on 9%. In the womens voting, it was a runaway victory to Taylor who amassed 80% of the votes, well ahead of Linday Laur (10%) and Emily Fryters (10%).

Congratulations to Tom and Natalie.

Previous Winners:

Round 5: Kimmani Barrett (Geelong) and Tayla Roberts (Launceston)

Round 6: Tom Garlepp (Bendigo) and Natalie Taylor (Ballarat)
Courtesy of: SEABL



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

Stats Leaders - Premier League

Points Per Game
 Ronaldas RUTKAUSKAS
  Minsk-.
  (203-F-92)
  Avg: 19.6
 1. Rutkauskas, Minsk.19.6 
 2. Sitnik, SBK O.17.1 
 3. Matyukevych, Grod.15.4 
 4. Ignatchik, Minsk-.14.6 
 5. Maze, Minsk-200614.5 
 6. Mishukov, SBK O.13.9 
 7. Sugoniako, BG.13.9 
 8. Knox, Minsk-200613.6 
 9. Patupchyk, Sozh G.13.4 
 10. Charykau, SBK O.13.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Pavel BLIZNETS
  Sozh Gomel
  (205-C-94)
  Avg: 11.3
 1. Bliznets, Sozh Gom.11.3 
 2. Rutkauskas, Minsk.9.2 
 3. Zakhar, BG.8.7 
 4. Krisevich, Minsk-.7.7 
 5. Mishukov, SBK O.7.7 
 6. Drobyshevski., Soz.6.7 
 7. Ovsepian, Rubon6.6 
 8. Kojenets, Minsk.6.4 
 9. Knox, Minsk-20066.0 
 10. Sharipov, SBK O.6.0 
Assists Per Game
 Siarhei CHARYKAU
  SBK O.
  (184-PG-82)
  Avg: 6.8
 1. Charykau, SBK O.6.8 
 2. Kuzmin, Grodno-935.1 
 3. Shustau, Minsk-20.5.0 
 4. Akulich, Rubon4.9 
 5. Maze, Minsk-20064.2 
 6. Kudrautsau, Minsk.4.0 
 7. Papruha, BG.2.9 
 8. Ignatchik, Minsk-.2.7 
 9. Korzh, Grodno-932.7 
 10. Sitnik, SBK O.2.5 
Steals Per Game
 Siarhei CHARYKAU
  SBK O.
  (184-PG-82)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. Charykau, SBK O.2.7 
 2. Akulich, Rubon2.4 
 3. Zakhar, BG.2.4 
 4. Ovsepian, Rubon2.1 
 5. Papruha, BG.2.0 
 6. Sitnik, SBK O.1.9 
 7. Sapegin, Rubon1.8 
 8. Patupchyk, Sozh G.1.7 
 9. Malkov, Rubon1.6 
 10. Ovdeenko, Grodno.1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Andrei MASTOU
  Grodno-93
  (202-F-84)
  Avg: 0
 1. Mastou, Grodno-930.0 
 2. Akulich, Rubon0.0 
 3. Malyavko, Minsk-20.0.0 
 4. Syrovatko, Grodn.0.0 
 5. Malkov, Rubon0.0 
 6. Sugoniako, BG.0.0 
 7. Malakhau, Minsk-20.0.0 
 8. Stankevich, Sozh0.0 
 9. Lashkevich, Minsk.0.0 
 10. Skidan, SBK O.0.0 


Premier League Round 1 of Quarter-Finals - by Eurobasket News

Minsk-2006 II - SBK Osipovichi 70-86

The game was mostly controlled by SBK Osipovichi. Minsk-2006 II managed to win fourth quarter 22-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. SBK Osipovichi had a 27-15 advantage in offensive rebounds. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. Guard Kiril Sitnik (190-89) stepped up and scored 21 points, 6 rebounds and 9 assists for the winners and guard Ilya Sharipov (197-91) chipped in 27 points and 6 rebounds. Four SBK Osipovichi players scored in double figures. At the losing side Lithuanian forward Ronaldas Rutkauskas (203-92) responded with 17 points and 8 rebounds and the former international point guard Maksim Shustau (184-86) scored 12 points and 5 assists. Minsk-2006 II's coach Aleksandr Verenich rotated ten players seeing no chance for a win.
Top scorers:
SBK Osipovichi: I.Sharipov 27+6reb+1ast, K.Sitnik 21+6reb+9ast, Y.Mishukov 13+4reb, D.Zaitsev 10+4reb+1ast, A.Svirydov 9+5reb+1ast, S.Charykau 2+1reb+10ast
Minsk-2006 II: R.Rutkauskas 17+8reb+2ast, V.Nakic 13+1reb+1ast, M.Shustau 12+1reb+5ast, V.Ignatchik 9+4reb+1ast, Y.Kurapau 7+5reb, A.Semianiuk 7+5reb
gschID: 175771


Grodno-93 - Sozh Gomel 102-42

The game without a history. Grodno-93 led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They held Sozh Gomel to an opponent 22.6 percent shooting from the field compared to 57.8 percent accuracy of the winners and made 19-of-24 charity shots (79.2 percent) during the game. Grodno-93 forced 27 Sozh Gomel turnovers and outrebounded them 46-27 including a 39-18 advantage in defensive rebounds. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 21 assists comparing to just 3 passes made by Sozh Gomel's players. Swingman Evgeni Ivanov (202-84) nailed 19 points and 7 rebounds (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field) for the winning side and Ukrainian center Vadim Matyukevych (208-80) accounted for 10 points and 6 rebounds. Four Grodno-93 players scored in double figures. Grodno-93's coach Andrei Vasileuka felt very confident that he used entire bench which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Center Igor Drobyshevskiy (206-93) came up with 12 points and 6 rebounds and point guard Yahor Patupchyk (186-94) added 15 points respectively for Sozh Gomel in the defeat.
Top scorers:
Grodno-93: E.Ivanov 19+7reb+2ast, Y.Hlebovich 12+5reb, I.Konuyshenko 11+4reb, V.Matyukevych 10+6reb+2ast, P.Shuleyko 9+4reb+2ast, A.Mastou 9+4reb+1ast
Sozh Gomel: Y.Patupchyk 15+2reb, I.Drobyshevskiy 12+6reb+1ast, D.Kasenkau 8+3reb, N.Samusenko 5+5reb, A.Shemet 2+3reb+1ast, I.Scherba 0+1reb+1ast
gschID: 175769


Rubon - BGUIR-RTI 75-50

The game without a history. Rubon led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They held BGUIR-RTI to an opponent 23.8 percent shooting from the field compared to 50.8 percent accuracy of the winners. Rubon forced 23 BGUIR-RTI turnovers and outrebounded them 39-27 including a 26-13 advantage in defensive rebounds. Point guard Artem Malkov (185-88) fired 17 points for the winners. Forward Marsel Ovsepian (202-90) chipped in 4 points and 15 rebounds. Forward Aliaksandr Kuzmitski (198-92) produced 13 points and 5 rebounds and forward Evgeniy Sugoniako (198-92) added 8 points and 5 rebounds respectively for lost side. 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:
Rubon: A.Malkov 17+2reb+3ast, S.Sapegin 13+6reb, A.Kachan 8+3reb+2ast, D.Shilovich 7, D.Akulich 7+4reb+4ast, D.Sivalko 6+5reb+3ast
BGUIR-RTI: A.Kuzmitski 13+5reb, E.Sugoniako 8+5reb, N.Strukov 6+2reb+2ast, K.Volodkin 6+1ast, D.Azaare 5+3reb, G.Zakhar 4+6reb+1ast
gschID: 175770



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

Standings - Division I

D1 Standings
 1. Spirou 23-8 
 2. Antwerp 22-8 
 3. Oostende 20-10 
 4. Aalstar 16-14 
 5. M.Hainaut 14-16 
 6. Leuven 14-16 
 7. Gent 12-19 
 8. Liege 10-20 
 9. Verviers-Pep. 5-25 

Regular Season: Round 34

May. 5: Antwerp - Aalstar 97-93
May. 5: Spirou - Leuven 93-87
May. 5: Gent - Verviers-Pep. 84-72
May. 4: Liege - M.Hainaut 70-60

Regular Season: Round 35

May. 9: Aalstar - Gent
May. 9: Verviers-Pep. - Liege
May. 9: Oostende - Antwerp
May. 9: M.Hainaut - Leuven

Round 10

May. 7: Leuven - Oostende


Stats Leaders - Division I

Points Per Game
 Christopher COPELAND
  Aalstar
  (203-F-84)
  Avg: 21.4
 1. Copeland, Aalstar21.4 
 2. Bostic, Liege16.0 
 3. Mallet, Spirou14.9 
 4. Lojeski, Oostende14.8 
 5. Black, Antwerp14.2 
 6. Haynes, Gent14.1 
 7. Taylor, M.Hainaut13.8 
 8. Freeman, Leuven13.6 
 9. Love, Verviers-Pep.13.4 
 10. Broyles, Spirou13.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jason LOVE
  Verviers-Pep.
  (206-F/C-87)
  Avg: 8
 1. Love, Verviers-Pep.8.0 
 2. Brown, Gent8.0 
 3. Mejri, Antwerp7.5 
 4. Young, Aalstar7.3 
 5. Mukubu, Verviers.6.8 
 6. Merriex, Verviers.6.8 
 7. McLean, Leuven6.6 
 8. Jackson, Aalstar6.0 
 9. Booker, Oostende6.0 
 10. Bostic, Liege5.8 
Assists Per Game
 Dominic WATERS
  Liege
  (185-PG-86)
  Avg: 4.1
 1. Waters, Liege4.1 
 2. Djordjevic, Ooste.3.7 
 3. Marnegrave, Leuven3.4 
 4. Bosco, Gent3.3 
 5. Black, Antwerp3.2 
 6. Slaughter, M.Hai.2.9 
 7. Mallet, Spirou2.8 
 8. Steinbach, Aalstar2.8 
 9. Thompson, Verviers.2.7 
 10. Taylor, M.Hainaut2.7 
Steals Per Game
 Adeola DAGUNDURO
  Leuven
  (196-G-86)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Dagunduro, Leuven2.5 
 2. Hopkins, Antwerp2.2 
 3. Black, Antwerp2.2 
 4. Mukubu, Verviers.2.2 
 5. Bosco, Gent2.0 
 6. Mallet, Spirou1.9 
 7. Wilson, Antwerp1.9 
 8. Muya, Liege1.8 
 9. Cage, M.Hainaut1.6 
 10. Bostic, Liege1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Salah MEJRI
  Antwerp
  (216-C-86)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Mejri, Antwerp2.5 
 2. Riddick, Spirou1.7 
 3. Jennings, Liege1.6 
 4. Love, Verviers-Pep.1.0 
 5. Young, Aalstar0.9 
 6. Booker, Oostende0.8 
 7. Nivins, M.Hainaut0.7 
 8. Copeland, Aalstar0.6 
 9. Vaughn, Antwerp0.6 
 10. Holiday, Aalstar0.5 


D1 Round 34: Okapi Aalstar loses to Antwerp Giants in the game between Top 4 teams - by Eurobasket News

There are only two more rounds left in the Regular Season in D1. Host teams show no mercy winning all games.

The game between Top Four teams took place in Antwerp. Second ranked host Antwerp Giants (22-8) defeated 4th ranked Okapi Aalstar (16-14) 97-93. They outrebounded Okapi Aalstar 34-23 including 25 on the defensive glass. Antwerp Giants shot the lights out from three sinking 13 long-distance shots on high 56.5 percentage. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 25 assists comparing to just 12 passes made by Okapi Aalstar's players. Tunisian center Salah Mejri (216-C-86) had a double-double by scoring 20 points and 10 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and American point guard Timothy Black (178-81, college: Barton, NC, agency: Limelight Hoops) chipped in 24 points and 4 assists during the contest. Antwerp Giants' coach Eddy Casteels used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. At the losing side American forward Christopher Copeland (203-84, college: Colorado) responded with a double-double by scoring 32 points, 10 rebounds and 6 assists. Antwerp Giants have an impressive five-game winning streak. They maintain second position with 22-8 record behind leader Spirou. Okapi Aalstar at the other side keeps the fourth place with 14 games lost. Antwerp Giants are looking forward to face Base Oostende (#3) on the road in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Okapi Aalstar will play against Optima Gent and is hoping to prove to their fans that this time they can win.
Belfius Mons-Hainaut (#5) was upset in Liege by eighth ranked Belgacom Liege 70-60. American forward Terrence Jennings (205-88, college: Louisville) notched 22 points, 8 rebounds and 4 blocks to lead the effort and Josh Bostic supported him with 19 points and 8 rebounds. Even 16 points by American guard A.J. Slaughter (191-87, college: W.Kentucky) did not help to save the game for Belfius Mons-Hainaut. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Belgacom Liege maintains eighth position with 10-20 record. Belfius Mons-Hainaut at the other side keeps the fifth place with 16 games lost. They share the position with Leuven. Belgacom Liege will play against bottom-ranked VOO Verviers-Pepinster (#9) on the road in the next round. Belfius Mons-Hainaut will play against Leuven Bears (#6) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
D1 top team - Spirou Charleroi (23-8) added another victory to their record on Saturday. This time they beat fifth ranked Leuven Bears (14-16) 93-87. Tornike Shengelia fired a double-double by scoring 18 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. John Tofi produced 20 points and 6 rebounds for lost side. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Spirou Charleroi have a solid four-game winning streak. Defending champion maintains first position with 23-8 record. Loser Leuven Bears keep the fifth place with 16 games lost. They share the position with M.Hainaut. Spirou Charleroi will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Leuven Bears will play against Belfius Mons-Hainaut (#5) in Quaregnon and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Seventh ranked Optima Gent (12-19) beat at home 9th ranked VOO Verviers-Pepinster (5-25) by 12 points 84-72, which is the biggest margin this round. Worth to mention a great performance of Brian Heinle who helped to win the game recording 15 points and 8 rebounds. Optima Gent maintains seventh position with 12-19 record. VOO Verviers-Pepinster lost fifth consecutive game. They stay dead last with 25 lost games. Optima Gent's next round opponent will be higher ranked Okapi Aalstar (#4) on the road and it may be quite challenging game. VOO Verviers-Pepinster will play against Belgacom Liege (#8) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.


Gent - Verviers-Pep. 84-72
Seventh ranked Optima Gent (12-19) beat at home 9th ranked VOO Verviers-Pepinster (5-25) by 12 points 84-72, which is the biggest margin this round. The hosts were ahead by 3 points but lost the second period ending it with a 2-point deficit before their 26-12 run, which allowed them to win the game. Worth to mention a great performance of American center Brian Heinle (207-78, college: CS Northridge, agency: Court Side) who helped to win the game recording 15 points and 8 rebounds. The former international point guard Lionel Bosco (176-81, agency: Court Side) contributed with a double-double by scoring 11 points and 12 assists for the winners. American guard Jermaine Beal (191-87, college: Vanderbilt) replied with 27 points and 5 rebounds and his fellow American import forward Bingo Merriex (204-80, college: TCU) added 17 points and 10 rebounds in the effort for VOO Verviers-Pepinster. Five Optima Gent and four VOO Verviers-Pepinster players scored in double figures. Optima Gent maintains seventh position with 12-19 record. VOO Verviers-Pepinster lost fifth consecutive game. They stay dead last with 25 lost games. Optima Gent's next round opponent will be higher ranked Okapi Aalstar (#4) on the road and it may be quite challenging game. VOO Verviers-Pepinster will play against Belgacom Liege (#8) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Gent: M.Haynes 17+3reb+1ast, S.Geukens 15+3reb+2ast, B.Heinle 15+8reb+3ast, L.Bosco 11+3reb+12ast, G.Brown 10+11reb, M.Jenkins 9+1reb+2ast
Verviers-Pep.: J.Beal 27+5reb, B.Merriex 17+10reb+2ast, J.Love 11+8reb, M.De Zeeuw 10+9reb+4ast, S.Moris 4+5reb, T.Thompson 3+2reb+6ast
gschID: 132472


Antwerp - Aalstar 97-93
The game between Top Four teams took place in Antwerp. Second ranked host Antwerp Giants (22-8) defeated 4th ranked Okapi Aalstar (16-14) 97-93. They outrebounded Okapi Aalstar 34-23 including 25 on the defensive glass. Antwerp Giants shot the lights out from three sinking 13 long-distance shots on high 56.5 percentage. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 25 assists comparing to just 12 passes made by Okapi Aalstar's players. Tunisian center Salah Mejri (216-86) had a double-double by scoring 20 points and 10 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and American point guard Timothy Black (178-81, college: Barton, NC, agency: Limelight Hoops) chipped in 24 points and 4 assists during the contest. Antwerp Giants' coach Eddy Casteels used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. At the losing side American forward Christopher Copeland (203-84, college: Colorado) responded with a double-double by scoring 32 points, 10 rebounds and 6 assists and his fellow American import guard Kevin Kruger (186-83, college: UNLV) scored 19 points. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Antwerp Giants have an impressive five-game winning streak. They maintain second position with 22-8 record behind leader Spirou. Okapi Aalstar at the other side keeps the fourth place with 14 games lost. Antwerp Giants are looking forward to face Base Oostende (#3) on the road in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Okapi Aalstar will play against Optima Gent and is hoping to prove to their fans that this time they can win.
Top scorers:
Antwerp: T.Black 24+3reb+4ast, S.Mejri 20+10reb+3ast, B.Hopkins 17+5reb+6ast, R.Biggs 13+2reb+1ast, M.Morrison 9+6reb, R.Moors 6+3reb+4ast
Aalstar: C.Copeland 32+10reb+6ast, K.Kruger 19+1ast, N.Fox 11+1reb+2ast, S.Jackson 10+5reb+2ast, J.Holiday 9+3reb, H.VanLangenhove 6
gschID: 132473


Liege - M.Hainaut 70-60
Belfius Mons-Hainaut (#5) was upset in Liege by eighth ranked Belgacom Liege 70-60. Belfius Mons-Hainaut was ahead by 2 points at the halftime before a 44-32 second half run of Belgacom Liege. They also forced 20 Belfius Mons-Hainaut turnovers. Belfius Mons-Hainaut was plagued by 27 personal fouls down the stretch. American forward Terrence Jennings (205-88, college: Louisville) notched 22 points, 8 rebounds and 4 blocks to lead the effort and the other American import forward Josh Bostic (196-87, college: Findlay, OH) supported him with 19 points and 8 rebounds. Even 16 points by American guard A.J. Slaughter (191-87, college: W.Kentucky) did not help to save the game for Belfius Mons-Hainaut. The former international guard Alexandre Libert (194-90) added 15 points for lost side. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Belgacom Liege maintains eighth position with 10-20 record. Belfius Mons-Hainaut at the other side keeps the fifth place with 16 games lost. They share the position with Leuven. Belgacom Liege will play against bottom-ranked VOO Verviers-Pepinster (#9) on the road in the next round. Belfius Mons-Hainaut will play against Leuven Bears (#6) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Liege: T.Jennings 22+8reb, J.Bostic 19+8reb, D.Waters 9+2reb+2ast, G.Muya 9+4reb+6ast, P.Gillet 7+9reb+1ast, G.Hockins 2+3reb+2ast
M.Hainaut: A.Slaughter 16+3reb+3ast, A.Libert 15+2reb, S.Bellin 7+2reb, Q.Taylor 6+5reb+2ast, I.Maras 5+9reb, S.Foster 3+3reb+1ast
gschID: 132470


Spirou - Leuven 93-87
D1 top team - Spirou Charleroi (23-8) added another victory to their record on Saturday. This time they beat fifth ranked Leuven Bears (14-16) 93-87. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Leuven Bears won third quarter 27-22. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Spirou Charleroi looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. Georgian forward Tornike Shengelia (207-91) fired a double-double by scoring 18 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. American guard Demond Mallet (186-78, college: McNeese St., agency: Higher Vision Sports) chipped in 18 points and 5 assists. Four Spirou Charleroi players scored in double figures. Samoan-American power forward John Tofi (203-84, college: UTEP) produced 20 points and 6 rebounds and guard Niels Marnegrave (191-87) added 8 points and 5 assists respectively for lost side. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Spirou Charleroi have a solid four-game winning streak. Defending champion maintains first position with 23-8 record. Loser Leuven Bears keep the fifth place with 16 games lost. They share the position with M.Hainaut. Spirou Charleroi will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Leuven Bears will play against Belfius Mons-Hainaut (#5) in Quaregnon and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Spirou: D.Mallet 18+1reb+5ast, T.Shengelia 18+11reb+2ast, C.Beghin 14+2reb, C.Hill 11+2reb+3ast, J.Hamilton 9+3reb+4ast, A.Riddick 6+4reb+2ast
Leuven: J.Tofi 20+6reb+1ast, I.Hanavan 15+2reb, B.Freeman 9+2reb+1ast, J.Terrell 8+5reb, J.Davis 8+2ast, N.Marnegrave 8+4reb+5ast



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


KK Radnik wins the Liga RS title and promotion to D1 - by Miljan Veskovic

KK Radnik Bijeljina wins the title without playing the second game of the finals. The final has been played between two rivals from Bijeljina, KK Radnik and KK Gradanski. After the first game won by Radnik 90:70 the match arranged for tonight was canceled. KK Gradanski had some roster issues and demanded to postpone the second match but their request was denied and they refused to play the game. So following the propositions the result of the second game was 20-0 for KK Radnik Bijeljina and they are the new Republika Srpska champions. No matter this epilog KK Radnik Bijeljina was the dominant team during the season, they finished regular season with 18-0 score and continued through playoffs without losing a single game. For sure this great achievement was possible thanks to a whole team and new management but the biggest credit goes to Vladimir Radovanovic (194-G-81), Vedran Borovcanin (201-F-85) and Filip Goranovic (206-F/C-85), these three players led the team through season and performed on a top level.


Emir Zimic leads Trepca to Kosovo National Cup trophy - by Sead Buljina

Former Bosna starting center, Emir Zimic (217-C-86) is having a very good season. After a huge win against Pristina in the semi-finals, Zimic and his teammates won the final game for the 2012 Cup trophy. In a decisive game B.C. Trepca beat Bashkimi 86:71. One of the best Bosnian centers led the way with 20 points. Jaleel Nelson (196-G-87), Drilon Hajrizi (208-F/C-91) and Azemi Besnik (198-F-89) also contributed big time. In the semifinal game Emir Zimic kept Sigal Pristina players out of the paint recording 12 points, 12rebounds, 5 blocks and numerous changed shots. A perennial favorite, Pristina had to settle for outside shots and our player's team won the game by 87:76. Even great performances by former Maryland star John Gilchrist and Rutgers' Gerald Inman were not enough for Pristina to avoid a loss. Drilon Hajrizi outscored both of them with 27 points. The 2012 Cup is the first trophy for Emir Zimic this season. His team has qualified to the Championship semifinals and Zimic has a chance to win a double-title again since titles with B.C. Bosna.


Siroki WWin and Igokea to fight for the league title, again - by Eurobasket News

Second games of the Bosnian league Semifinals were played last night. Siroki WWin and Igokea celebrated on the road against their rivals winning the series with perfect 2-0. It means that Siroki and Igokea will once again meet in the Finals. The format is best-of-five and first game is scheduled for Saturday, May 12. Siroki will have a home court advantage in this series. Siroki is the defending champion and they were regular season champs as well.
Siroki cruised past Varda last night as a guest 71-55 (24-12, 14-13, 25-13, 8-17). Darko Planinic (211-C-90) top-scored in victory with 19 points (6 rebs), while Dalibor Persic (193-G-85) helped with double-double of 11 points and 10 rebounds. Miroslav Markovic (201-F-75, agency: BeoExcell) and Darko Damjanovic (203-F/C-91) had 12 points each in Varda. Markovic dished out 7 assists and Damjanovic grabbed 5 rebounds.
Igokea handed 82-71 home loss to Mladost (17-14, 24-20, 16-25, 25-12). Milos Komatina (205-FC-84) nailed 26 points for the guests (10 rebs) and Milan Dozet (204-SF-79) followed with 20. Nenad Djoric (184-G-78) scored 12 pts for Mladost, while Ninoslav Milosevic (196-SF-79, agency: Beo Basket) and Kezic had 10 pts apiece.
It is important to mention that Siroki WWin and Igokea booked a spot for Adriatic league 2012/13.



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

Standings

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

Regular Season: Round 9

May. 1: Cadets - Police 71-60
May. 4: Saints - BDF V 57-77
May. 5: Splinters - Bullets
May. 5: Flames - Cadets
May. 5: Flames - Bullets
May. 5: Splinters - Cadets
May. 5: Dolphins - Police
May. 5: Troopers - Spartans


Spartans takes 8-1 record on top - by Eurobasket News

Spartans takes 8-1 record on top after the won over Police 85:65. Actually the latter also handed the league leaders their first loss on April 25th. That time Police won 66:64. Last night BDF V improved to 2-6 record beating BC Saints 77:57. The latter fell at 0-7 record on the bottom of the standings.


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


Uberlandia and Uniceub/BRB post playoff wins - by Eurobasket News

Uberlandia registered a road win over Flamengo to narrow the deficit in the series. Robby Collum (185-G-81, college: W.Michigan) knocked down 25 points to pace the visitors as they escaped elimination with a 77:60 victory. It looked all right for Flamengo in the first half. They led by one point after ten minutes 15:14. Uberlandia eked out a narrow 30:29 halftime lead. Uberlandia stretched the margin to 4 points at the final break 51:47. However the visitors gave no chance for Flamengo. Uberladia went on a stunning 26:13 run in the fourth period to seal the victory. Robert Day (197-F-82, college: W.Oregon) accounted for 15 points for Uberlandia. Lucas Cipolini (206-F/C-86, college: BYU-Hawaii) added 12 points in the win. Marcelo Magalhaes (199-F/G-75, agency: Interperformances) responded with 11 points for Flamengo. Guillermo Kammerichs (203-F/C-80) had 10 points in the loss.
LNB defending champions Uniceub/BRB overcame Itabom/Bauru 80:76 on the road in the opener. Uniceub/BRB led throughout the first three periods. They established a 61:52 lead with ten minutes remaining in regulation. Itabom/Bauru cut the deficit but the visitors hung on to escape with the victory. Alex Ribeiro (191-G-80, agency: Interperformances) knocked down 20 points for Uniceub/BRB. Welington Dos Santos (185-PG-81) netted 18 points in the win. Larry Taylor (185-G-80, college: Missouri Western) chipped in 29 points for Itabom/Bauru.



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


Volcanoes get close win over Olympia - by Eurobasket News

Dominique Watson (5'10''-G) scored 31 points, and Calvin Hampton (6'10''-F/C-86, college: Oregon St.) had 15 points and 12 rebounds as the Vancouver Volcanoes improved to 3-0 with a 117-116 International Basketball League win over the Olympia Reign on Friday at the OConnell Center.

Olympia (1-4) led by as much as 13 points at 89-76 in the third quarter.

There were 12 lead changes and six ties in the game.

Antwan Williams (6'3''-G, college: Puget Sound) scored 18 points, Andre Murray (6'2''-G-87, college: Portland St.) 17 and Alexander Hartman (6'7''-F-85, college: Concordia, OR) 12 for the Volcanoes.

Olympia was led by Giovonne Woods (6'3''-G-86, college: Cent.Washington) 31 points and 10 assists.

Vancouver next plays the Portland Chinook at 7 p.m. today at the 212 Sports Complex in Clackamas.



VANCOUVER VOLCANOES 117, OLYMPIA REIGN 116

OLYMPIA (1-4) Wright 2-4 1-2 5, Whittaker 3-13 1-2 10, Matthews 0-3 1-2 1, Moore 6-9 0-0 15, Ward 7-17 3-4 19, Woods 10-17 7-11 31, Ohanson 5-10 5-9 15, Weakley 3-7 0-1 9, Manning 1-3 0-0 2, Jones 2-4 5-6 9. Totals 39-87 23-37 116.

VANCOUVER (3-0) Lechtenberg 0-1 0-0 0, Williams 6-15 3-4 18, Hartman 3-13 5-8 12, Murray 8-21 1-2 17, Tiefenthaler 6-8 0-1 15, Hampton 7-10 1-3, Watson 11-20 7-8 31, West 1-1 0-2 2, Gweth 1-4 2-2 5, Sweeney 1-1 0-0 2, Christie 0-0 0-0 0, Moore 0-0 0-0 0. Totals 44-94 19-30 117.

Olympia 20 29 42 25 - 116

Vancouver 22 30 30 35 - 117

Courtesy of www.columbian.com



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

Standings - NBL

NBL Standings
 1. Guangzhou L. 2-0 
 2. Hebei 2-0 
 3. Jiangsu 1-1 
 4. Changan Group 1-1 
 5. Hong Kong 1-1 
 6. Sichuan 1-1 
 7. Henan Jiyuan 1-1 
 8. Heilongjiang 1-1 
 9. Guangzhou FM 0-2 
 10. Nanjin Army 0-2 

Regular Season: Round 2

May. 5: Hebei - Jiangsu 89-76
May. 5: Sichuan - Hong Kong 86-103
May. 5: Guangzhou L. - Changan Group 83-73
May. 5: Henan Jiyuan - Guangzhou FM 108-106 OT
May. 5: Heilongjiang - Nanjin Army 107-101

Regular Season: Round 3

May. 8: Guangzhou L. - Sichuan
May. 8: Henan Jiyuan - Hebei
May. 8: Guangzhou FM - Changan Group
May. 8: Nanjin Army - Hong Kong
May. 8: Heilongjiang - Jiangsu



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


NATIONAL INTERLEAGUE TOURNAMENT TO START TODAY IN MEDELLIN - by Victor Garcia

The 2011 National Interleague Championship is about to start today in the city of Medellin, eight teams are ready to fight for the gold in the tournament.
Choc the reigning champion leaded by Edgar Moreno will have hard rivals on Antioquia A that has Stalin Ortiz and Norbey Aragon, Bogot (Capitals Club) is another of the big challengers the team brings back to the country the well-known Bernardo Gonzalez as head coach and strength its roster with Jairo Mendoza, Daniel Restrepo and Julian Pineda, San Andrs leaded by its idol Joe Manuel also has a word to say in the contest, Valle as usual comes with a young and talented team, and this year could be the right time for the red squad in the Champioship.
The group of contenders is completed by Antioquia B, Guajira and Sucre.




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

A1 Standings

A1 Standings
Championship Group
 1. Cibona 13-0 
 2. Cedevita 9-3 
 3. KK Split 9-3 
 4. Zadar 6-6 
 5. KK Zagreb CO 6-7 
 6. Svjetlost 3-9 
 7. Jolly 2-10 
 8. Zabok 1-11 
Play-Out
 1. Krizevci 12-7 
 2. Alkar Sinj 11-8 
 3. Kvarner 2010 10-9 
 4. Darda 9-10 
 5. Dubrovnik 8-11 
 6. Borik 7-12 
Stage One Standings

Second Stage: Round 12

Championship

May. 4: Svjetlost - Jolly 91-75
May. 4: Cibona - Zadar 88-79
May. 5: KK Split - Zabok 82-76
May. 5: Cedevita - KK Zagreb CO 77-67

Play-Out

May. 5: Darda - Alkar Sinj 92-75
May. 5: Kvarner 2010 - Krizevci 77-83
May. 5: Borik - Dubrovnik 63-71

Round 10

May. 2: KK Split - KK Zagreb CO 82-70

Second Stage: Round 13

May. 8: KK Split - Cibona
May. 8: Zabok - Svjetlost
May. 8: Jolly - Cedevita
May. 8: KK Zagreb CO - Zadar


Stats Leaders - A1

Points Per Game
 Ivan MIMICA
  KK Split
  (193-G-80)
  Avg: 19.1
 1. Mimica, KK Split19.1 
 2. Ross, Jolly18.4 
 3. Ceskovic, Kvarner17.9 
 4. Stimac, Svjetlost15.7 
 5. Sobin, KK Split15.6 
 6. Simovic, Kvarner15.0 
 7. Vrbanc, Zadar14.7 
 8. Kruslin, Zabok14.6 
 9. Grgat, Krizevci14.2 
 10. Budimir, Darda14.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Ive IVANOV
  Zadar
  (201-C-85)
  Avg: 7.3
 1. Ivanov, Zadar7.3 
 2. Stimac, Svjetlost7.1 
 3. Simovic, Kvarner7.0 
 4. Suton, Cibona7.0 
 5. Cinac, Kvarner 20106.9 
 6. Sobin, KK Split6.8 
 7. Zupic, Alkar Sinj6.6 
 8. Peraica, Darda6.6 
 9. Mrva, Jolly5.8 
 10. Grgat, Krizevci5.8 
Assists Per Game
 Josip GLAVINIC
  Krizevci
  (192-G-82)
  Avg: 5.1
 1. Glavinic, Krizevci5.1 
 2. Vujcic, KK Split4.7 
 3. Ross, Jolly4.6 
 4. Blajic, Kvarner4.2 
 5. Subotic, KK Split4.2 
 6. Kostomaj, Svjet.3.9 
 7. Wright, Cibona3.6 
 8. Tomas, Zabok3.1 
 9. Ceskovic, Kvarner3.0 
 10. Bubalo, Alkar Sinj2.8 
Steals Per Game
 Ronald ROSS
  Jolly
  (188-G-83)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Ross, Jolly2.9 
 2. Rozic, Cibona2.2 
 3. Kostomaj, Svjet.1.9 
 4. Bicvic, Darda1.9 
 5. Wright, Cibona1.8 
 6. Blajic, Kvarner1.8 
 7. Sobin, KK Split1.6 
 8. Stimac, Svjetlost1.6 
 9. Kruslin, Zabok1.5 
 10. Mimica, KK Split1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Filip KRALJEVIC
  Zabok
  (214-F-89)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Kraljevic, Zabok1.8 
 2. Sarlija, Borik1.3 
 3. Bubalo, Zabok1.1 
 4. Zupic, Alkar Sinj1.1 
 5. Vujcic, KK Split1.0 
 6. Buva, Krizevci0.8 
 7. Sobin, KK Split0.8 
 8. Vukovic, KK Split0.8 
 9. Babic, KK Split0.6 
 10. Kastropil, Zadar0.6 


A1 Round 12 of Second Stage - by Eurobasket News

There are only two more rounds left in the Second Stage in A1. The fans could enjoy quite many interesting games in the last round. The round ended with derby games and favorites losing the games.

Group Championship
Svjetlost - Jolly 91-75
Everything could happen in Slavonski Brod at the game between two tied teams. Both seventh ranked Svjetlost and 6th ranked Jolly had identical 2-9 record. This time Svjetlost used a home court advantage and beat the opponent from Sibenik 91-75 on Friday night. The game was mostly controlled by Svjetlost. Jolly was better in second period 19-18. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Jolly was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a good game for power forward Andrej Stimac (204-79) who led his team to a victory with 26 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. The former international power forward Ljubo Samadan (208-83) contributed with 16 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. American guard Ronald Ross (188-83, college: Texas Tech) replied with 19 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals and forward Mate Mrva (195-83) added 13 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists in the effort for Jolly. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Jolly's coach Hrvoje Vlasic tested ten players seeing no chance for a win. Svjetlost (3-9) moved-up to sixth place. Loser Jolly dropped to the seventh position with ten games lost. Svjetlost will face Zabok (#8) in Zabok in the next round. Jolly will play at home against the league's second-placed Cedevita in Zagreb.
Top scorers:
Svjetlost: A.Stimac 26+6reb+5ast, P.Barac 20+2reb+3ast, L.Samadan 16+7reb+3ast, M.Batina 12+4reb, M.Matasovic 8+3reb, T.Kostomaj 7+1reb+6ast
Jolly: R.Ross 19+8reb+5ast, M.Mrva 13+7reb+4ast, S.Rezic 11+4reb+2ast, D.Vrsaljko 10+5reb, L.Katura 8+1reb+4ast, I.Salamun 7+1ast
gschID: 171836


KK Split - Zabok 82-76
Very expected game when 8th ranked Zabok (1-11) lost on the road to third ranked KK Split (9-3) 82-76 on Saturday. However just six-point win is not that big difference and the fans of host team counted on more convincing victory. Zabok trailed by 13 points after 3 quarters before a 27-20 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 76-82 at the end of the game. It was a great shooting night for KK Split especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 53.3 percentage. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists comparing to just 7 passes made by Zabok's players. It was a good game for swingman Josip Sobin (203-89) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 19 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field). Guard Ivan Mimica (193-80) contributed with 18 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Forward Filip Kraljevic (214-89) replied with a double-double by scoring 19 points and 11 rebounds and guard Filip Kruslin (198-89, agency: Interperformances) added 20 points and 5 steals in the effort for Zabok. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. KK Split have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to second place, which they share with Cedevita. Zabok lost ninth consecutive game. They keep the eighth position with 11 games lost. KK Split will face league's leader Cibona in Zagreb in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Zabok will play at home against Svjetlost (#6) in Slavonski Brod and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
KK Split: J.Sobin 19+10reb+4ast, I.Mimica 18+6reb+3ast, P.Marinelli 12+1reb+2ast, T.Dijan 10+3reb+3ast, L.Babic 10+8reb+5ast, N.Vujcic 8+4reb+5ast
Zabok: F.Kruslin 20+4reb+1ast, F.Kraljevic 19+11reb+1ast, S.Jankovic 14+3reb+1ast, I.Tomas 10+2reb+2ast, R.Lez 9, D.Basic 4
gschID: 171837


Cibona - Zadar 88-79
An interesting game for Cibona (13-0) which hosted in Zagreb 4th ranked Zadar (6-6). Top-ranked Cibona managed to get a 9-point victory 88-79. Zadar was tied at the half but could not keep up in last two quarters eventually losing the game. Cibona forced 19 Zadar turnovers. 29 personal fouls committed by Zadar helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was American guard Zack Wright (188-G-85, college: Central Mo.) who scored 20 points. The former international forward Marin Rozic (201-83) chipped in 8 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals. At the other side the best for losing team was center Ive Ivanov (201-85) who recorded 17 points and 9 rebounds (perfect from the field making all eight shots !!!) and swingman Ivan Batur (201-91) added 17 points and 5 rebounds respectively. Four Zadar players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Cibona have an impressive 13-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 13-0 record. Zadar lost third consecutive game. They keep the fourth place with six games lost. Cibona's next round opponent will be KK Split (#3) on the road, which may be the game of the day. Zadar will play against KK Zagreb CO and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Cibona: Z.Wright 20+4reb+2ast, D.Rudez 13+1reb+2ast, T.Zubcic 12+2reb, A.Zizic 9, M.Rozic 8+5reb+4ast, A.Barbour 6+1reb+1ast
Zadar: I.Ivanov 17+9reb, I.Batur 17+5reb, G.Vrbanc 13+2reb+1ast, K.Vragovic 11+4reb+1ast, D.Reed 9+3reb+4ast, A.Kuso 7+4reb+2ast
gschID: 171834


Cedevita - KK Zagreb CO 77-67
Another interesting game was a derby match between two teams from Zagreb: Cedevita (#3) and KK Zagreb CO (#5). Cedevita (9-3) won against visiting KK Zagreb CO (6-7) 77-67. The game was mostly controlled by Cedevita. KK Zagreb CO was better in third quarter 18-12. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Cedevita dominated down low during the game scoring 56 of its points in the paint compared to KK Zagreb CO's 30. Worth to mention a great performance of forward Miro Bilan (213-89) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 19 points and 10 rebounds (on 8-of-9 shooting from the field) and American forward Haywood Owens (204-79, college: Texas, agency: Pro One Sports) who added 14 points during the contest. Four Cedevita players scored in double figures. Cedevita's coach Drazen Anzulovic allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. The best for the losing side was power forward Dario Saric (208-94) with a double-double by scoring 15 points, 10 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals and the former international guard Damir Rancic (199-83) scored 14 points. Cedevita moved-up to second place, which they share with KK Split. KK Zagreb CO lost third consecutive game. Defending champion keeps the fifth position with seven games lost. Cedevita will play against Jolly (#7) in Sibenik in the next round where they are favorite. KK Zagreb CO will play at home against Zadar and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Cedevita: M.Bilan 19+10reb+1ast, H.Owens 14+3reb, M.Car 14+1reb+2ast, L.Warren 11+3reb+1ast, V.Vukusic 6+5reb+1ast, M.Bazdaric 4+1reb+3ast
KK Zagreb CO: D.Saric 15+10reb+5ast, D.Rancic 14+4reb+3ast, V.Morovic 11+2reb+1ast, R.Rikic 9+8reb, I.Novacic 6+1reb, D.Mavra 5+3reb+5ast
gschID: 171835


Play-Out
Borik - Dubrovnik 63-71
Round 12 most important game was a victory of Dubrovnik over 5th ranked Borik Puntamika 71-63 on Saturday night. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Borik Puntamika won third quarter 19-15. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. 26 personal fouls committed by Borik Puntamika helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was a good game for Bosnian forward Toni Bizaca (202-82) who led his team to a victory with 18 points and 5 rebounds. Guard Luka Petkovic (190-88) contributed with 17 points for the winners. Dubrovnik's coach used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Power forward Marino Sarlija (207-89) replied with 17 points and 6 rebounds and Marijan Cakarun (-90) added 16 points in the effort for Borik Puntamika. Four Borik Puntamika players scored in double figures. Dubrovnik (8-11) moved-up to fifth place. Borik Puntamika at the other side dropped to the sixth position with 12 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Dubrovnik: T.Bizaca 18+5reb, L.Petkovic 17+2reb, M.Hajdic 10+4reb+1ast, I.Begic 9+5reb+1ast, M.Peric 8+2reb, N.Dosen 3+3reb
Borik: M.Sarlija 17+6reb, M.Cakarun 16+3reb, M.Pesut 11+2reb+5ast, M.Jurjevic 10+4reb, P.Maric 7+4reb+2ast, T.Drazovic 2+1reb
gschID: 171870


Darda - Alkar Sinj 92-75
Very important is a road loss of second ranked Alkar Sinj (11-8) against fourth ranked Vrijednosnice OS (9-10) on Saturday night. Visiting Alkar Sinj was defeated by Vrijednosnice OS in Darda 92-75. The game without a history. Vrijednosnice OS led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 56 of its points in the paint compared to Alkar Sinj's 36. They outrebounded Alkar Sinj 36-18 including a 22-9 advantage in defensive rebounds. It was a great shooting night for Vrijednosnice OS especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 56.3 percentage. The winners were led by forward Antonio Bicvic (199-82) who scored that evening 27 points and 8 rebounds and swingman Veljko Budimir (199-85, agency: Court Side) supported him with 21 points and 6 rebounds. Even 16 points and 5 assists by swingman Franjo Bubalo (194-88) did not help to save the game for Alkar Sinj. Forward Stjepan Tesija (206-89) added 14 points and 6 rebounds. Alkar Sinj's coach Stipe Blajic rotated eleven players seeing no chance for a win. Vrijednosnice OS maintains fourth position with 9-10 record. Loser Alkar Sinj keeps the second place with eight games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Darda: A.Bicvic 27+8reb+3ast, V.Budimir 21+6reb, A.Vlaic 11+5reb+3ast, F.Kordic 10+1reb+1ast, L.Panduric 9+4reb+4ast, M.Peraica 8+6reb
Alkar Sinj: D.Kanaet 18+2reb, F.Bubalo 16+5ast, S.Tesija 14+6reb, J.Lozancic 8+1reb, R.Rogic 6+2ast, N.Gaurina 4+1reb+1ast
gschID: 171871


Kvarner 2010 - Krizevci 77-83
An interesting game for Krizevci (12-7) which played road game in Rijeka against 3rd ranked Kvarner 2010 (10-9). First ranked Krizevci managed to get a 6-point victory 83-77. Kvarner 2010 was tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. Kvarner 2010 was plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a good game for forward Luka Zitko (201-81) who led his team to a victory with 21 points and 5 rebounds. Forward Marin Zrnic (200-88) contributed with 18 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Four Krizevci players scored in double figures. Krizevci's coach Rudolf Jugo used a ten-player rotation and allowed the starting five to get some rest. point guard Matteo Juricic (192-91, agency: Kotnik Sports Agency) replied with 17 points and naturalized Bosnian guard Matija Ceskovic (192-81, agency: Court Side) added 22 points in the effort for Kvarner 2010. Newly promoted Krizevci maintains first position with 12-7 record. Loser Kvarner 2010 keeps the third place with nine games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Krizevci: L.Zitko 21+5reb+2ast, M.Zrnic 18+6reb+1ast, I.Buva 14+7reb+2ast, J.Glavinic 13+5reb+5ast, M.Gligora 9+3reb, H.Sertic 6+2reb+1ast
Kvarner 2010: M.Ceskovic 22+1ast, M.Juricic 17+4reb+3ast, H.Sirko 9+1reb, T.Simovic 8+5reb+2ast, S.Legovic 6+1reb, Z.Pehar 6+6reb+4ast
schID: 171872


Round 10
KK Split - KK Zagreb CO 82-70
Rather predictable result when third ranked KK Split (9-3) won against at home 5th ranked KK Zagreb CO (6-7) 82-70 on Wednesday. The hosts were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. KK Split dominated down low during the game scoring 64 of its points in the paint compared to KK Zagreb CO's 32. They outrebounded KK Zagreb CO 40-25 including 28 on the defensive glass. KK Split looked well-organized offensively handing out 24 assists. It was a good game for swingman Josip Sobin (203-89) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 32 points, 11 rebounds, 5 assists and 5 steals (perfect from the field making all fifteen shots !!!). The former international center Nikola Vujcic (211-78) contributed with 12 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. KK Split's coach Niksa Bavcevic used a ten-player rotation and allowed the starting five to get some rest. The former international power forward Damir Markota (210-85) replied with 21 points and the former international guard Damir Mulaomerovic (195-74, agency: FCM) added 15 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists in the effort for KK Zagreb CO. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. KK Split have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to second place, which they share with Cedevita. KK Zagreb CO lost third consecutive game. Defending champion keeps the fifth position with seven games lost. KK Split will face league's leader Cibona in Zagreb in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. KK Zagreb CO will play at home against Zadar (#4) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
KK Split: J.Sobin 32+11reb+5ast, N.Vujcic 12+6reb+2ast, T.Dijan 11+6reb+3ast, I.Mimica 10+6reb+3ast, L.Babic 9+4reb+4ast, S.Subotic 6+2reb+6ast
KK Zagreb CO: D.Markota 21+3reb+3ast, D.Mulaomerovic 15+6reb+4ast, S.Ozbolt 11+1reb+4ast, D.Saric 10+10reb+2ast, I.Novacic 8+3reb, D.Rancic 5+1reb+1ast



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

Stats Leaders - NBL

Points Per Game
 Peter SEDMAK
  USK Praha
  (207-C-85)
  Avg: 19.7
 1. Sedmak, USK Praha19.7 
 2. Pope, Chomutov19.6 
 3. McFadden, Usti n.18.2 
 4. Grant, Levice17.9 
 5. Lowery, Chomutov17.6 
 6. Hruban, USK Praha16.7 
 7. Houska, BK Decin15.3 
 8. Arnold, BK Pardu.14.9 
 9. Meno, Svitavy14.8 
 10. Stanek, Chomutov14.7 
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, Svitavy8.4 
 4. Gottselig, Usti n.8.0 
 5. Arnold, BK Pardu.7.9 
 6. Naymick, CEZ N.7.7 
 7. Gadri-N., BK Prost.7.6 
 8. Peterson, BK Prost.7.3 
 9. Modric, Levice7.2 
 10. Gavran, Inter B.6.8 
Assists Per Game
 Emanuel UBILLA
  Inter B.
  (188-G-86)
  Avg: 5.3
 1. Ubilla, Inter B.5.3 
 2. Deloach, Svitavy5.1 
 3. Sotnar, USK Praha4.7 
 4. Wright, NH Ostrava4.6 
 5. Wright, Chomutov4.6 
 6. Vrubl, Plzen4.4 
 7. McFadden, Usti n.4.1 
 8. Lawrence, CEZ N.4.1 
 9. Sirina, B&W Opava4.1 
 10. Pope, Chomutov3.9 
Steals Per Game
 Rashaan AMES
  BC Kolin
  (184-PG-78)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Ames, BC Kolin2.6 
 2. Ubilla, Inter B.2.5 
 3. Wright, Chomutov2.4 
 4. McFadden, Usti n.2.3 
 5. Wright, NH Ostrava2.1 
 6. Klecka, B&W Opava1.9 
 7. Lowery, Chomutov1.9 
 8. Sirina, B&W Opava1.8 
 9. Pumprla, CEZ N.1.7 
 10. Abrams, CEZ N.1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Andrew NAYMICK
  CEZ N.
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 1.5
 1. Naymick, CEZ N.1.5 
 2. Hughes, NH Ostrava1.3 
 3. Miklosik, B&W O.1.3 
 4. Gadri-N., BK Prost.1.2 
 5. Williams, BK Decin1.0 
 6. Grant, Levice0.9 
 7. Pumprla, CEZ N.0.9 
 8. Arnold, BK Pardu.0.9 
 9. Reese, Usti n.0.9 
 10. Houska, BK Decin0.8 


BC Kolin upset CEZ Nymburk to tie the series - by Eurobasket News

BK Decin - BK Prostejov 78-74 (1-1)

BK Prostejov was trailing by 4 points at halftime but managed to get 1-point lead after three quarters before a 31-26 charge of BK Decin, which allowed them to win the game. BK Prostejov was plagued by 28 personal fouls down the stretch. American guard Levell Sanders (189-75, college: Seton Hall, agency: Stanley International) scored 22 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists to lead the charge for the winners and international power forward Pavel Houska (204-84) chipped in 13 points and 8 rebounds during the contest. Four BK Decin players scored in double figures. BK Decin's coach used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. American Jamar Smith (191-87, college: S.Indiana, agency: KMG Sports Management) responded with 28 points and his fellow American import center Bertengeh Gadri-Nicholson (208-83, college: Denver) scored 8 points and 12 rebounds.
Top scorers:
BK Decin: L.Sanders 22+6reb+4ast, L.Stria 13+2reb+1ast, P.Houska 13+8reb+3ast, D.Burke 10+1ast, A.Alic 6+4reb+1ast, J.Houska 4+3reb
BK Prostejov: J.Smith 28+2reb+2ast, P.Slezak 11+1reb, B.Gadri-Nicholson 8+12reb+3ast, J.Bohacik 7+3reb+2ast, D.Pandula 7+2reb, T.Peterson 6+9reb+4ast
gschID: 175949


BC Kolin - CEZ Nymburk 90-88 OT (1-1)

CEZ Nymburk trailed by 13 points after 3 quarters before a 23-10 run in the last quarter tied the game at the end of regular time, But then they lost eventually overtime period 4-6. BC Kolin made 23-of-30 free shots (76.7 percent) during the game. 26 personal fouls committed by CEZ Nymburk helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American forward Richard Field (196-85, college: Mercyhurst) scored 24 points and 7 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and the other American import guard Chadwick-Farrell Barnes (190-83, college: New Orleans) chipped in 19 points and 5 assists during the contest. Four BC Kolin players scored in double figures. The former international power forward Petr Benda (203-82, agency: Court Side) responded with a double-double by scoring 20 points and 18 rebounds and American guard Eugene Lawrence (184-86, college: St.John's, agency: Two Points) scored 21 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists.
Top scorers:
BC Kolin: R.Field 24+7reb+2ast, C.Barnes 19+4reb+5ast, R.Ames 13+4reb+1ast, D.Machac 10+14reb+1ast, R.Marko 9+3reb, J.Jelinek 7+8reb+3ast
CEZ Nymburk: E.Lawrence 21+7reb+4ast, P.Benda 20+18reb+2ast, P.Pumprla 12+1reb+1ast, M.Lenzly 10+2reb+4ast, A.Naymick 8+9reb+1ast, R.Necas 8+10reb+1ast
gschID: 175950



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

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Reinis STRUPOVICS
  Valga
  (192-G-87)
  Avg: 20.9
 1. Strupovics, Valga20.9 
 2. Raadik, Parnu18.1 
 3. Raley-Ross, Tln K.17.3 
 4. Cipruss, Tarvas16.9 
 5. Soo, Rapla16.8 
 6. Raap, Parnu16.2 
 7. Veideman, Tartu U.15.6 
 8. Pilk, TTU15.3 
 9. Akenparg, TTU14.3 
 10. Hallik, Tarvas14.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Kaspars CIPRUSS
  Tarvas
  (210-C-82)
  Avg: 10.1
 1. Cipruss, Tarvas10.1 
 2. Cricelli, Valga8.4 
 3. Fedortchuk, Tln K.8.2 
 4. Raadik, Parnu7.8 
 5. Arnold, TTU7.6 
 6. Shaw, Tln Kalev7.4 
 7. Fall, Kalev/Cramo6.6 
 8. Pilk, TTU6.6 
 9. Ringmets, Rapla6.5 
 10. Allingu, Tartu U.6.4 
Assists Per Game
 Edgars CUNDA
  Valga
  (195-G-84)
  Avg: 4.5
 1. Cunda, Valga4.5 
 2. Laane, Rapla4.2 
 3. Sokk, Tartu Ulikool4.2 
 4. Sirsnins, Tarvas3.8 
 5. Kriisa, Tarvas3.6 
 6. Pilk, TTU3.6 
 7. Raap, Parnu3.3 
 8. Kriisa, Tartu Ulik.3.3 
 9. Dorbek, Tarvas3.3 
 10. Sokk, Kalev/Cramo3.0 
Steals Per Game
 Edgars CUNDA
  Valga
  (195-G-84)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Cunda, Valga2.5 
 2. Raley-Ross, Tln K.2.2 
 3. Laane, Rapla2.1 
 4. Veideman, Tartu U.2.1 
 5. Leppik, Tartu Ulik.2.0 
 6. Kaldre, Rapla1.9 
 7. Dorbek, Tarvas1.8 
 8. Raap, Parnu1.8 
 9. Skele, Kalev/Cramo1.7 
 10. Cricelli, Valga1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Bamba FALL
  Kalev/Cramo
  (216-C-86)
  Avg: 1.7
 1. Fall, Kalev/Cramo1.7 
 2. Raadik, Parnu1.4 
 3. Amis, Tartu Ulikool1.1 
 4. Fedortchuk, Tln K.1.0 
 5. Ulyanko, Kalev/Cr.0.8 
 6. Toome, Kalev/Cramo0.6 
 7. Veski, Tarvas0.5 
 8. Hallik, Tarvas0.5 
 9. Makke, TTU0.4 
 10. Keedus, TTU0.4 



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


Rimas Kurtinaitis:''Everybody wants to be first'' - by Diamadis Farmakis

Coach Rimas Kurtinaitis (agency: Alti Sport ), who led Khimky to its first Eurocup title (second title for the Lithuanian coach), spoke to the official site of the Eurocup, about the days of glory he lived in the weekend of the 2012 Eurocup final four. He also mentioned the next day for him and for the club.

Here is the interview of Mr Kurtinaitis:

Congratulations on winning the second Eurocup title in your career. How does it feel to win the competition again?

'Of course, it is a great feeling. We worked really hard all season to win this title. From the very beginning of the season, winning the Eurocup was a big goal for us. I am very happy for my team, because most of our players had never won a European competition. Three years ago, my team Lietuvos Rytas beat Khimki in the Eurocup final. I guess Khimki made a good decision by signing me as head coach! I am glad that I could help Khimki win the competition three years after that final. Two Eurocup titles with different teams is a great result.'

What did you feel when Vitaly Fridzon lifted the Eurocup trophy? How does that feeling compare with what you felt when you won big titles as a player?

'I felt great! We had been waiting for that moment for months! Of course, it was important for me to be successful when I was a player, too. I did my job well as a player and won a lot of titles with 11 more players, of course. I got to become a coach and am happy to be able to explain to my players what it felt like to win. We have won titles again, which means that the way I am doing things is the right one because we are the Eurocup champions.'

Looking back at the semifinals, Khimki was down by 10 against Spartak in the fourth quarter. What did you tell your players in that critical moment?

'You know, we played a lot of close games this season, similar to that semifinal against Spartak. It was not a special situation to be down by 10 early in the fourth quarter; we have been there before. What I told my players is that we had enough time and that if we focused on the game and played hard until the last second, we would have a chance to win the game. We had enough time to rally and thats what happened. I knew it was possible because we were not lucky on offense in that game against Spartak. We were not playing well in defense and changed it a little bit. I knew we could make shots that we had missed earlier in the game. It was not a catastrophic situation, we were having bad luck. I told my players to be patient, play hard and we would be OK.'

It is never easy to play twice in two days. What was the message to your players before facing Valencia Basket?

'For me, it is not important to play two games in a row or in three days' time. The most important thing is that both teams are in the same situation, and this is what happened. Of course, we had a long season, playing three different competitions. We had a lot of games, but arrived to the Eurocup Finals in good shape and ready to play on consecutive days. The problem may be the quality of our game, but at the same time, we had not played well against Spartak. We knew we could play much better and that is what I told my guys if everything goes right, we will play much better against Valencia, defense and offense, and that's what happened. We had total control on defense in the final minutes and got a great result. My players put in a great effort and a lot of energy to win the game and that is what matters most in a final.'

Your biggest leader and Eurocup Finals MVP Zoran Planinic fouled out and Valencia managed to tie the game. How did your team manage to hold off that rally and win the game?

'We have a lot of guys, like five of them, who can take leadership, especially at the end of the game. We don't have just one strong player, but a lot of them who can do it. In those minutes, with Zoran out, Chris Quinn played very well and became our leader. He took full control on offense and scored critical points. It looked like Zoran fouling out could have been dangerous, but we played with a lot of concentration, all of us.'

Congratulations on your contract extension, too. How does it feel to be able to coach Khimki in the Euroleague?

'As a coach, you always want to work at the highest level and the Euroleague is the best competition in Europe. I am happy to be there and know that the competition level will be different from this season; it will be much better. There are really talented teams like Barcelona, Panathinaikos and CSKA Moscow, just to name three of them. At the same time, we don't want to just participate in the Euroleague; we want to win something. Our initial goal will be making it to the Top 16 and then we will see what happens. We must change our team a little bit, see which positions we can make a little bit stronger. We are looking. It is a tough job; completing the team is most important thing in basketball. We will see, we want Khimki to compete at the highest level not only in the Eurocup, but also in the Euroleague.'

How was the celebration after winning the title?

'We had no time for celebration! (laughs) Some guys went out to a party because they had Monday off. Us, the coaching staff, sat down and talked about what happened. It was a short celebration because we had to face Lietuvos Rytas in Vilnius and at home three times in one week. There was no time for celebration. We will organize something once the season is over, but not now.'

Do you feel that you have changed Khimki's history for the better?

'I think so, especially since we also managed to win the VTB League against CSKA Moscow last season. It was a good title for Khimki, but this is even better. I am happy that that we won the Eurocup, as this is an international level of competition. We were strong enough to win a European title, and that will be part of Khimki's history forever.'

What's the next goal for such an ambitious club as Khimki?

'It will be very difficiult, but we are looking to get back to the Russian League finals and to try to beat CSKA, one of the strongest teams in the Euroleague, especially this season. CSKA has a good coach in Jonas Kazlauskas and very good players. Everybody wants to be first and to challenge for titles, to change Russian basketball history, since CSKA has won the league title for the last nine years. We are looking to change this, but it will not be easy.'




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

Stats Leaders - Korisliiga

Points Per Game
 Tim BLUE
  KTP
  (205-F-84)
  Avg: 23.2
 1. Blue, KTP23.2 
 2. Zeno, Nilan Bisons19.6 
 3. Crocker, KTP19.3 
 4. Beidler, Kauhajoki19.2 
 5. Durham, Salon Vilp.18.9 
 6. Brooks, Namika L.18.6 
 7. Holloway, Salon V.18.3 
 8. Hannah, Kauhajoki18.3 
 9. Newson, Kataja18.1 
 10. Hawkins, ToPo18.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 John FIELDS
  Salon Vilpas
  (205-F-88)
  Avg: 12.2
 1. Fields, Salon Vilp.12.2 
 2. Durham, Salon Vilp.11.2 
 3. Blue, KTP10.4 
 4. Williams, Pyrinto10.1 
 5. Beidler, Kauhajoki9.8 
 6. Zeno, Nilan Bisons8.6 
 7. Newson, Kataja8.6 
 8. McDade, Nilan B.8.3 
 9. Brown, Kouvot8.1 
 10. Hamm, LrNM.7.8 
Assists Per Game
 Malik MOORE
  Namika L.
  (192-G-77)
  Avg: 5.2
 1. Moore, Namika L.5.2 
 2. Haynes, LrNM.4.8 
 3. Ivey, Nilan Bisons4.8 
 4. Hannah, Kauhajoki4.5 
 5. Sarcevic, KTP4.3 
 6. Williams, Pyrinto4.1 
 7. Walker, Kataja3.8 
 8. Virtanen, Kataja3.7 
 9. Zeno, Nilan Bisons3.5 
 10. Nikkarinen, Kouvot3.4 
Steals Per Game
 Kelly BEIDLER
  Kauhajoki
  (199-F-88)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Beidler, Kauhajoki2.3 
 2. Moore, Korihait2.2 
 3. Williams, Pyrinto2.0 
 4. Williams, Pyrinto1.9 
 5. Holloway, Salon V.1.8 
 6. Haynes, LrNM.1.7 
 7. Sarcevic, KTP1.7 
 8. Jordan, Kouvot1.6 
 9. Newson, Kataja1.6 
 10. Moore, Namika L.1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Kelly BEIDLER
  Kauhajoki
  (199-F-88)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Beidler, Kauhajoki1.9 
 2. Fields, Salon Vilp.1.8 
 3. Blue, KTP1.4 
 4. Williams, Pyrinto1.0 
 5. Zeno, Nilan Bisons1.0 
 6. Lehtoranta, Kataja0.9 
 7. Hamm, LrNM.0.8 
 8. Mottola, ToPo0.8 
 9. Jones, Nilan Bisons0.7 
 10. Brown, Kouvot0.6 


Kataja tied Korisliiga Finals at 1-1 - by Eurobasket News

Nilan Bisons - Kataja 85-88 (1-1)

Kataja tied Korisliiga Finals at 1-1 as 25 personal fouls committed by Loimaan Korikonkarit helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American guard B.A. Walker (188-84, college: VCU, agency: Pro One Sports) scored 15 points, 6 rebounds and 8 assists to lead the charge for the winners and the other American import swingman Jared Newson (195-84, college: Tenn-Martin, agency: Pro One Sports) chipped in 19 points and 8 rebounds during the contest. Four Joensuun Kataja players scored in double figures. American guard Martin Zeno (196-85, college: Texas Tech) responded with 27 points and 9 rebounds and international guard Mikko Koivisto (194-87, college: NC-Greensboro) scored 22 points.
Top scorers:
Nilan Bisons: M.Zeno 27+9reb+3ast, M.Koivisto 22+2reb+3ast, M.Nuutinen 10+7reb+2ast, R.McDade 8+6reb+2ast, J.Ivey 7+3reb+4ast, V.Makalainen 5+2ast
Kataja: S.Lehtoranta 21+5reb+2ast, J.Newson 19+8reb+2ast, B.Walker 15+6reb+8ast, J.Price 11+5reb, S.Haanpaa 8+4reb+1ast, A.Kanervo 5+1reb+1ast
gschID: 175805


3rd place
Pyrinto - ToPo 90-97

The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Tampereen Pyrinto won fourth quarter 24-21. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Torpan Pojat players were unselfish on offense dishing 21 assists. Tampereen Pyrinto was plagued by 27 personal fouls down the stretch. American forward Justin Hawkins (201-85, college: N.Mexico St., agency: Two Points) notched 34 points (!!!), 8 rebounds and 9 assists to lead the effort and forward Carl Lindbom (206-91) supported him with 21 points and 7 rebounds. Even 27 points and 7 rebounds by American forward Antwine Williams (192-75, college: N.Colorado, agency: Prossin Sports Management) did not help to save the game for Tampereen Pyrinto. His fellow American import forward Damon Williams (201-73, college: Colorado St.-Pueblo, agency: Two Points) added 17 points and 9 rebounds for the hosts. Four Tampereen Pyrinto players scored in double figures. Tampereen Pyrinto's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
Pyrinto: A.Williams 27+7reb+3ast, D.Williams 17+9reb+3ast, A.Lehto 11+2reb+4ast, K.Lowe 10+4reb+3ast, O.Ahvenniemi 9+2reb, J.Harjula 9+2reb+1ast
ToPo: J.Hawkins 34+8reb+9ast, C.Lindbom 21+7reb+1ast, H.Mottola 14+5reb+2ast, C.Griffin 9+3reb+6ast, T.Heinonen 9+2reb+1ast, T.Iisalo 6+1reb
gschID: 175804



KORISLIIGA: OT at Loimaa and Kataja won - by Rauno Hurmalainen

Korisliiga, Finals, Game # 2: Bisons (Loimaa) and Kataja (Joensuu) meeting the second time tonight in the Finals. Also this fight was a real thriller as the winner was clear first after one OT. There were 17 lead changes and 11 ties before Kataja had won by three: OT 85-88 (77) (49-53). Quarters: 25-22, 24-31, 18-12, 10-12, 8-11.
Kataja's American Guard B.A. Walker (188-G-84, agency: Pro One Sports, college: VCU) was the hero of the contest. Walker helped the visitors into the OT by stealing the ball and making his lay up (77-77) at time 39:01. Bisons had still three chances to make the winning bucket, but the hosts missed three shots in a row. Then during the OT Kataja's Jeremy Price (203-F-88, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Georgia) was 5/6 from the charity stripe, Walker made a 2-pointer (44:41) and stole again the ball at 44:53. Sami Lehtoranta (205-C/F-79) led Kataja with 21 points. Martin Zeno (196-G-85, college: Texas Tech) (Bisons) scored game high 27 pts. Bisons - Kataja 1-1. Game # 3 on Monday, May 7, in Joensuu.

Bisons - Kataja OT 85-88 (77) (49-53). (Martin Zeno 27/9, Mikko Koivisto 22, Matti Nuutinen 10 - Sami Lehtoranta 21, Jared Newson 19/8, B.A.Walker 15/8a, Jeremy Price 11. A: 1248).



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

Standings - ProA

ProA Standings
 1. Gravelines 26-3 
 2. Chalon 23-5 
 3. Orleans 20-9 
 4. Le Mans 18-11 
 5. Nancy 17-12 
 6. Paris-Levallois 16-13 
 7. Roanne 16-13 
 8. Cholet 15-13 
 9. Nanterre 14-15 
 10. Dijon 14-15 
 11. Strasbourg 13-16 
 12. ASVEL 12-17 
 13. Le Havre 9-19 
 14. Poitiers 9-20 
 15. Pau-Lacq-Orthez 6-23 
 16. Hyeres-Toulon 2-26 

Regular Season: Round 29

May. 5: Le Mans - Pau-Lacq-Orthez 89-77
May. 5: Roanne - Nanterre 83-76
May. 5: Chalon - ASVEL 76-61
May. 5: Paris-Levallois - Gravelines 75-86
May. 5: Strasbourg - Orleans 71-88
May. 4: Dijon - Cholet 67-74
May. 5: Poitiers - Nancy 60-68
May. 8: Hyeres-Toulon - Le Havre


Stats Leaders - ProA

Points Per Game
 Eric CHATFIELD
  Paris-.
  (191-G-79)
  Avg: 19.6
 1. Chatfield, Paris-.19.6 
 2. Rochestie, Le Mans17.5 
 3. Hughes, Hyeres-T.17.2 
 4. Gipson, Pau-Lacq.17.1 
 5. Williams, Paris-.17.1 
 6. Hamilton, Paris-.16.7 
 7. Causeur, Cholet16.1 
 8. Schilb, Chalon16.0 
 9. Cox, Le Havre15.8 
 10. Delaney, Chalon15.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Chinemelu ELONU
  Pau-Lacq.
  (206-F/C-87)
  Avg: 8.2
 1. Elonu, Pau-Lacq.8.2 
 2. Hamilton, Paris-.8.0 
 3. Akingbala, Nancy7.9 
 4. Armstrong, AS.7.2 
 5. Nsonwu-Amadi, Roa.7.0 
 6. Vebobe, Cholet6.9 
 7. Greer, Strasbourg6.9 
 8. Aminu, Chalon6.8 
 9. Falker, Cholet6.7 
 10. Moerman, Nancy6.3 
Assists Per Game
 Kareem REID
  Hyeres-Toulon
  (178-PG-75)
  Avg: 7.5
 1. Reid, Hyeres-Toulon7.5 
 2. Rochestie, Le Mans6.4 
 3. Wise, Le Havre5.6 
 4. Linehan, Nancy5.2 
 5. Pellin, Orleans5.2 
 6. Dixon, Dijon5.1 
 7. Barrett, Roanne4.9 
 8. Schilb, Chalon4.8 
 9. Gipson, Pau-Lacq.4.6 
 10. Cox, Le Havre4.5 
Steals Per Game
 Andrew ALBICY
  Gravelines
  (178-PG-90)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Albicy, Gravelines2.5 
 2. Dobbins, Poitiers2.1 
 3. Wise, Le Havre2.0 
 4. Riley, Nanterre2.0 
 5. Pellin, Orleans1.9 
 6. Linehan, Nancy1.9 
 7. Shuler, Nancy1.8 
 8. Melody, Dijon1.7 
 9. Acker, Le Mans1.6 
 10. Dixon, Dijon1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Alexis AJINCA
  Strasbourg
  (215-C-88)
  Avg: 2
 1. Ajinca, Strasbourg2.0 
 2. Gobert, Cholet1.4 
 3. Falker, Cholet1.4 
 4. Akingbala, Nancy1.2 
 5. Hamilton, Paris-.1.1 
 6. Elonu, Pau-Lacq.1.1 
 7. Akpomedah, Grave.1.0 
 8. Issa, Gravelines1.0 
 9. Armstrong, AS.0.9 
 10. Williams, Paris-.0.9 


Standings - ProB

ProB Standings
 1. Limoges 26-7 
 2. Boulazac 24-9 
 3. Chalons-Reims 23-10 
 4. Maurienne 22-11 
 5. Fos Ouest 21-12 
 6. Bordeaux 20-13 
 7. Boulogne 18-15 
 8. Evreux 16-17 
 9. Lille 16-17 
 10. St Vallier 15-18 
 11. Bourg 15-18 
 12. Antibes 15-18 
 13. Nantes 14-19 
 14. Rouen 13-20 
 15. Le Portel 12-21 
 16. Denain 11-22 
 17. Quimper 9-24 
 18. Vichy 7-26 
 19. St Etienne 0-0 

Regular Season: Round 33

May. 5: Boulogne - St Vallier 98-81
May. 4: Chalons-Reims - Le Portel 98-59
May. 5: Rouen - Denain 95-75
May. 5: Bourg - Antibes 91-92 OT
May. 5: Boulazac - Evreux 87-62
May. 4: Bordeaux - Lille 82-74
May. 4: Fos Ouest - Vichy 76-53
May. 5: Quimper - Nantes 66-82
May. 5: Limoges - Maurienne 65-71


Stats Leaders - ProB

Points Per Game
 Jason SIGGERS
  Rouen
  (189-SG-85)
  Avg: 18.5
 1. Siggers, Rouen18.5 
 2. Brown, Maurienne17.6 
 3. Davis, Le Portel17.0 
 4. McCray, Boulogne16.3 
 5. Wood, Evreux16.1 
 6. Paelay, Quimper15.8 
 7. Carter, Chalons-.15.5 
 8. Kante, Denain15.3 
 9. Monroe, Boulazac15.3 
 10. Osby, Maurienne15.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Christophe MASSIE
  Limoges
  (206-C/F-77)
  Avg: 11.4
 1. Massie, Limoges11.4 
 2. Wood, Evreux10.8 
 3. Rossiter, Denain9.8 
 4. Osby, Maurienne9.6 
 5. Monroe, Boulazac9.4 
 6. Daniels, Chalons-.8.7 
 7. Barro, Bourg8.5 
 8. Allen, Antibes8.2 
 9. Brown, Maurienne7.8 
 10. Badiane, Nantes7.8 
Assists Per Game
 Ronnie TAYLOR
  Le Portel
  (188-PG-81)
  Avg: 6.6
 1. Taylor, Le Portel6.6 
 2. Mullins, Chalons-.5.9 
 3. Rowland, Evreux5.4 
 4. Copeland, Bourg5.3 
 5. Darnauzan, Mauri.5.2 
 6. Darrigand, Bordeaux4.9 
 7. Denave, St Vallier4.9 
 8. Patiejunas, Rouen4.8 
 9. Poupet, Rouen4.4 
 10. Eito, Vichy4.4 
Steals Per Game
 Chris MCCRAY
  Boulogne
  (196-G/F-84)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. McCray, Boulogne2.6 
 2. Charles, Nantes2.4 
 3. Shiloh, St Vallier2.0 
 4. Paelay, Quimper1.9 
 5. Mullins, Chalons-.1.9 
 6. Allen, Antibes1.8 
 7. Choquet, Fos Ouest1.8 
 8. Driss, Bordeaux1.8 
 9. Eito, Vichy1.8 
 10. Rowland, Evreux1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Sherman GAY
  Fos Ouest
  (201-PF-82)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Gay, Fos Ouest1.8 
 2. Badiane, Antibes1.7 
 3. Jefferson, Vichy1.6 
 4. Osby, Maurienne1.5 
 5. Ford, Bordeaux1.0 
 6. Massie, Limoges1.0 
 7. Fields, Nantes0.9 
 8. McKenzie, Boulazac0.9 
 9. Adjiwanou, Boula.0.8 
 10. Daniels, Chalons-.0.8 


Standings - N1

NM1 Standings
 1. St Quentin 27-7 
 2. Souffel 25-8 
 3. Orchy 25-9 
 4. Roche 23-10 
 5. Charleville 23-10 
 6. Blois 23-11 
 7. Cognac 21-12 
 8. Sorgues 19-15 
 9. Brest 18-16 
 10. Challans 17-17 
 11. Angers BC 49 16-18 
 12. Lievin 15-19 
 13. Rueil 15-19 
 14. Chartres 15-19 
 15. Clermont 8-26 
 16. Montbrison 6-28 
 17. Le Puy 6-28 
 18. CFBB 2-32 

Regular Season: Round 34

May. 5: Challans - Lievin 97-78
May. 5: Souffel - Clermont 86-64
May. 5: Sorgues - Orchy 83-76
May. 4: Rueil - Roche 75-73
May. 5: Brest - St Quentin 72-90
May. 5: Chartres - Blois 71-66
May. 5: Montbrison - Angers BC 49 67-85
May. 5: Le Puy - CFBB 64-63
May. 31: Charleville - Cognac


Stats Leaders - N1

Points Per Game
 Ville KAUNISTO
  Blois
  (204-F-82)
  Avg: 18.1
 1. Kaunisto, Blois18.1 
 2. Bigote, Cognac17.3 
 3. Petrovic, Orchy16.6 
 4. Bluntt, Orchy16.6 
 5. Thomas, Roche16.3 
 6. Herard, Challans16.0 
 7. Pridotkas, Brest16.0 
 8. Almanson, Challans15.9 
 9. Pearson, Angers B.15.8 
 10. Belser, Charlevil.15.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Ville KAUNISTO
  Blois
  (204-F-82)
  Avg: 11.4
 1. Kaunisto, Blois11.4 
 2. Jaiteh, CFBB10.2 
 3. Caskill, Cognac9.6 
 4. Jackson, Clermont9.5 
 5. Pearson, Angers B.8.7 
 6. Aubry, Montbrison8.2 
 7. Sanborn, Lievin8.1 
 8. Lesieu, St Quentin7.9 
 9. McClark, Clermont7.7 
 10. Toney, Charleville7.6 
Assists Per Game
 Johan RATHIEUVILLE
  Brest
  (177-G-85)
  Avg: 6.5
 1. Rathieuville, Brest6.5 
 2. Calvez, Charleville5.3 
 3. Daube, Le Puy5.3 
 4. Tillon, Montbrison5.3 
 5. Godin, Cognac5.1 
 6. Brochard, Blois5.0 
 7. Ball, St Quentin4.5 
 8. Barbry, Orchy4.4 
 9. Cortey, Clermont4.3 
 10. Dessart, Lievin4.1 
Steals Per Game
 Aurelien TOTO N''KOTE
  Roche
  (194-F-79)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Toto N''Kote, Roche2.2 
 2. Calvez, Charleville2.1 
 3. Pistre, Charleville2.0 
 4. Bichard, St Quentin1.8 
 5. Godin, Cognac1.6 
 6. Davis, Blois1.6 
 7. Merie, Chartres1.6 
 8. Ball, St Quentin1.6 
 9. Daube, Le Puy1.6 
 10. Bigote, Cognac1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Abdoulaye N''DIAYE
  Souffel
  (210-C/F-84)
  Avg: 1.7
 1. N''Diaye, Souffel1.7 
 2. Alingue, Souffel1.7 
 3. Davis, Blois1.4 
 4. Sanborn, Lievin1.4 
 5. Caskill, Cognac1.4 
 6. Traore, Angers B.1.2 
 7. Diame, Rueil1.2 
 8. Morin, CFBB1.1 
 9. Tornato, Blois1.0 
 10. Jaiteh, CFBB1.0 


ProA Round 29: No surprise as #1 Gravelines-Dunkerque defeats Paris-Levallois - by Eurobasket News

There will be only one (last) round of the Regular Season in ProA. The round 29 was rather boring as all games ended with very predictable results.

ProA top team - Gravelines-Dunkerque (26-3) managed to deliver another win on Saturday. This time they beat sixth ranked Paris-Levallois (16-13) 86-75. Gravelines-Dunkerque made 17-of-22 free shots (77.3 percent) during the game. They also forced 20 Paris-Levallois turnovers. International point guard Andrew Albicy (178-90) stepped up and scored 19 points and 4 assists for the winners and the former international center Ludovic Vaty (206-88, college: Moraine Valley CC) chipped in 13 points and 5 rebounds. American forward Jawad Williams (204-83, college: N.Carolina) responded with 20 points and 5 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Gravelines-Dunkerque have an impressive series of eleven victories in a row. They maintain first place with 26-3 record. Paris-Levallois lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the sixth position with 13 games lost. They share it with Roanne. Gravelines-Dunkerque are looking forward to face league's second-placed Chalon/Saor at home in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Paris-Levallois will play against STB Le Havre (#13) and is hoping to prove to their supporters that they can break losing series.
11th ranked Strasbourg IG (13-16) was outscored at home by third ranked Entente Orleans 45 (20-9) with the biggest margin this round 88-71. Naturalized Mali forward Amara Sy (202-81) nailed 19 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists for the winning side and Marc-Antoine Pellin accounted for 15 points, 6 assists and 4 steals. Entente Orleans 45's coach Philippe Herve allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. American forward Chris Oliver (198-85, college: Radford) came up with 20 points and 6 rebounds for Strasbourg IG in the defeat. Entente Orleans 45 maintains third place with 20-9 record having six points less than leader Gravelines. Strasbourg IG at the other side keeps the eleventh position with 16 games lost. Entente Orleans 45 will play against Poitiers (#14) at home in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Strasbourg IG will play against Cholet and hopes to get back on the winning track.

There were no shocking results in the rest of the games of round 29: Nancy won against Poitiers on the opponent's court 68-60. Roanne managed to outperform Nanterre in a home game 83-76. ASVEL recorded a loss to Chalon on the road 76-61. Le Mans defeated Pau-Lacq-Orthez on its own court 89-77. Cholet beat Dijon in a road game 74-67.


Poitiers - Nancy 60-68

Very expected game when 13th ranked Poitiers (9-20) was defeated at home by fifth ranked Sluc Nancy (17-12) 68-60. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Poitiers won third quarter 16-12. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Sluc Nancy made 20-of-26 charity shots (76.9 percent) during the game. Poitiers was plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. American guard Jamal Shuler (191-86) nailed 25 points and 5 steals for the winning side and the former international power forward Adrien Moerman (203-88) accounted for 12 points and 14 rebounds. Four Sluc Nancy players scored in double figures. International swingman Evan Fournier (199-92) came up with 22 points and American forward Antonio Grant (198-76, college: S.Carolina, agency: Interperformances) added 11 points and 6 rebounds respectively for Poitiers in the defeat. Poitiers' coach Rudy Nelhomme rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Defending champion maintains fifth place with 17-12 record. Poitiers at the other side dropped to the fourteenth position with 20 games lost. Sluc Nancy will play against JDA Dijon (#10) at home in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Poitiers will play against Entente Orleans 45 (#3) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Poitiers: E.Fournier 22+4reb+3ast, A.Dobbins 12+3reb, A.Grant 11+6reb+1ast, P.Badiane 8+5reb+3ast, P.Guillard 6+3reb+3ast, J.J.J. Miller 1+2reb
Nancy: J.Shuler 25+4reb+1ast, A.Akingbala 15+7reb, A.Moerman 12+14reb, P.Amagou 11+8ast, R.Kurz 4+5reb, J.Linehan 1+3reb+7ast
gschID: 133718


Roanne - Nanterre 83-76

Rather predictable result when seventh ranked Chorale de Roanne (16-13) defeated at home 9th ranked JSF Nanterre (14-15) 83-76. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 22-19. But JSF Nanterre won second period 22-20. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Nigerian power forward Uche Nsonwu-Amadi (208-78, college: Wyoming, agency: Beo Basket) nailed 26 points and 6 rebounds (on 10-of-12 shooting from the field) for the winning side and American forward Dylan Page (204-82, college: Wisc.-Milwaukee) accounted for 14 points and 5 rebounds. Four Chorale de Roanne players scored in double figures. American forward William Daniels (203-86, college: Rhode Island) came up with 23 points and guard Marc Judith (192-87) added 10 points and 7 rebounds respectively for JSF Nanterre in the defeat. Chorale de Roanne moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Paris-Levallois. Newly promoted JSF Nanterre keeps the ninth position with 15 games lost. They share it with Dijon. Chorale de Roanne will play against ASVEL (#12) in Villeurbanne in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. JSF Nanterre will play at home against Le Mans and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Nanterre: W.Daniels 23+3reb+2ast, S.Brun 15+5reb, M.Judith 10+7reb+3ast, M.Diarra 8, R.Covile 8+8reb, M.Riley 5+1reb+2ast
Roanne: U.Nsonwu-Amadi 26+6reb+1ast, D.Page 14+5reb+3ast, R.Wright 14+1reb+6ast, M.Diabate 10+3reb+2ast, T.Larrouquis 9+1reb+1ast, J.Holland 8+6reb+2ast
gschID: 133719


Strasbourg - Orleans 71-88

11th ranked Strasbourg IG (13-16) was outscored at home by third ranked Entente Orleans 45 (20-9) with the biggest margin this round 88-71. The game was mostly controlled by Entente Orleans 45. Strasbourg IG was better in fourth quarter 21-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Entente Orleans 45 forced 22 Strasbourg IG turnovers. Naturalized Mali forward Amara Sy (202-81) nailed 19 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists for the winning side and the former international point guard Marc-Antoine Pellin (169-87) accounted for 15 points, 6 assists and 4 steals. Five Entente Orleans 45 players scored in double figures. Entente Orleans 45's coach Philippe Herve allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. American forward Chris Oliver (198-85, college: Radford) came up with 20 points and 6 rebounds and the other American import point guard Kevin Anderson (182-88, college: Richmond) added 21 points and 5 assists respectively for Strasbourg IG in the defeat. Entente Orleans 45 maintains third place with 20-9 record having six points less than leader Gravelines. Strasbourg IG at the other side keeps the eleventh position with 16 games lost. Entente Orleans 45 will play against Poitiers (#14) at home in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Strasbourg IG will play against Cholet and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Strasbourg: K.Anderson 21+2reb+5ast, C.Oliver 20+6reb+3ast, H.Invernizzi 9+4reb, M.Zianveni 7+7reb+1ast, A.Ajinca 5+5reb+3ast, R.Greer 4+1reb+4ast
Orleans: A.Sy 19+9reb+4ast, C.Banks 16+2reb+2ast, B.Greene 16+5reb, M.Pellin 15+2reb+6ast, M.N'Doye 12+4reb+2ast, Y.Sangare 6+2reb+1ast
gschID: 133720


Chalon - ASVEL 76-61

Not a big story in a game when 12th ranked ASVEL (12-17) was defeated on the road by second ranked Chalon/Saor (23-5) 76-61. The game was mostly controlled by Chalon/Saor. ASVEL was better in second period 19-13. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Nigerian power forward Alade Aminu (207-87, college: Georgia Tech) nailed 18 points and 7 rebounds (on 8-of-9 shooting from the field) for the winning side and the former international guard Steed Tchicamboud (193-81) accounted for 10 points and 10 assists. Four Chalon/Saor players scored in double figures. Chalon/Saor's coach Gregor Beugnot used a ten-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. American power forward Hilton Armstrong (208-84, college: Connecticut) came up with a double-double by scoring 20 points and 13 rebounds and the other American import swingman Dijon Thompson (201-83, college: UCLA) added 11 points and 4 assists respectively for ASVEL in the defeat. The victory was the third consecutive win for Chalon/Saor. They maintain second place with 23-5 record having four points less than leader Gravelines. ASVEL at the other side keeps the twelfth position with 17 games lost. Chalon/Saor will play against league's leader Gravelines-Dunkerque on the road in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. ASVEL will play against Chorale de Roanne (#7) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
ASVEL: H.Armstrong 20+13reb, D.Thompson 11+2reb+4ast, E.Jackson 9+1reb+3ast, D.Haritopoulos 7+1reb, L.Westermann 5+2reb+4ast, K.Tillie 4+3reb+3ast
Chalon: A.Aminu 18+7reb+2ast, I.Evtimov 14+3reb+1ast, A.Jordan 13+3reb, S.Tchicamboud 10+2reb+10ast, N.Lang 6+3reb, J.Lauvergne 6+8reb+2ast
gschID: 133721


Le Mans - Pau-Lacq-Orthez 89-77

Everything went according to plan when fourth ranked Le Mans (18-11) beat at home 15th ranked Pau-Lacq-Orthez (6-23) 89-77. It looked good early as Pau-Lacq-Orthez took an 3-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Le Mans had a 29-21 second period charge getting the lead and Pau-Lacq-Orthez was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 77-89. Le Mans shot 30 for 43 from the free-throw line, while Pau-Lacq-Orthez only scored seven points from the stripe. Pau-Lacq-Orthez was plagued by 32 personal fouls down the stretch. American guard Alex Acker (196-83, college: Pepperdine, agency: Two Points) nailed 19 points and 7 rebounds for the winning side and international forward Charles Kahudi (197-86, agency: Beo Basket) accounted for 18 points and 7 rebounds. Four Le Mans players scored in double figures. American guard Allan Ray (188-84, college: Villanova) came up with 24 points (perfect behind the arc making all five shots) and Nigerian power forward Chinemelu Elonu (206-87, college: Texas A&M) added 10 points and 11 rebounds respectively for Pau-Lacq-Orthez in the defeat. Pau-Lacq-Orthez's coach Jean-Francois Laulhe rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Le Mans maintains fourth place with 18-11 record. Pau-Lacq-Orthez lost their ninth game in a row. They keep the fifteenth position with 23 games lost. Le Mans will play against JSF Nanterre (#9) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Pau-Lacq-Orthez will play against Hyeres-Toulon (#16) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Pau-Lacq-Orthez: A.Ray 24+2reb+2ast, R.Lesca 11+2reb+2ast, C.Elonu 10+11reb+1ast, J.Morency 8+6reb+6ast, M.Maravic 7+5reb+1ast, S.Rimac 6+1reb+3ast
Le Mans: A.Acker 19+7reb+2ast, C.Kahudi 18+7reb+3ast, J.Paulo Batista 14+3reb+1ast, M.Sommerville 13+4reb, T.Rochestie 9+2reb+8ast, H.Kahudi 6+1reb+3ast
gschID: 133715


Dijon - Cholet 67-74

There was no surprise when 10th ranked JDA Dijon (14-15) was defeated at home by eighth ranked Cholet (15-13) 74-67. The guests were already 12 points ahead at halftime and as many as 22 after three quarters before a 30-15 last quarter charge of JDA Dijon cut the lead to 74-67 at the end of the game. International guard Fabien Causeur (193-87) nailed 14 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists for the winning side and American forward Robert Dozier (206-85, college: Memphis) accounted for 17 points and 5 rebounds (on 8-of-9 shooting from the field). Four Cholet players scored in double figures. American point guard Bobby Dixon (178-83, college: Troy, agency: Beo Basket) came up with 24 points and 5 assists and the other American import forward Zach Moss (201-81, college: Mountain St.) added 10 points and 9 rebounds respectively for JDA Dijon in the defeat. The victory was the fourth consecutive win for Cholet. They maintain eighth place with 15-13 record. Newly promoted JDA Dijon dropped to the ninth position with 15 games lost. They share it with Nanterre. Cholet will play against Strasbourg IG (#11) at home in the next round. JDA Dijon will play against Sluc Nancy and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Dijon: B.Dixon 24+4reb+5ast, D.Melody 13+3reb+2ast, Z.Moss 10+9reb, J.Leloup 7+5reb+2ast, A.Harris 6+1reb+1ast, S.Marshall 4+3reb
Cholet: R.Dozier 17+5reb, F.Causeur 14+5reb+6ast, W.Gradit 12+1reb+2ast, D.Nelson 10+6reb+2ast, L.Vebobe 8+6reb, R.Gobert 7+5reb
gschID: 133716


Paris-Levallois - Gravelines 75-86

ProA top team - Gravelines-Dunkerque (26-3) managed to deliver another win on Saturday. This time they beat sixth ranked Paris-Levallois (16-13) 86-75. Gravelines-Dunkerque made 17-of-22 free shots (77.3 percent) during the game. They also forced 20 Paris-Levallois turnovers. International point guard Andrew Albicy (178-90) stepped up and scored 19 points and 4 assists for the winners and the former international center Ludovic Vaty (206-88, college: Moraine Valley CC) chipped in 13 points and 5 rebounds. Four Gravelines-Dunkerque players scored in double figures. American forward Jawad Williams (204-83, college: N.Carolina) responded with 20 points and 5 rebounds and the other American import guard Eric Chatfield (191-79, college: N.Mexico) scored 13 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Gravelines-Dunkerque have an impressive series of eleven victories in a row. They maintain first place with 26-3 record. Paris-Levallois lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the sixth position with 13 games lost. They share it with Roanne. Gravelines-Dunkerque are looking forward to face league's second-placed Chalon/Saor at home in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Paris-Levallois will play against STB Le Havre (#13) and is hoping to prove to their supporters that they can break losing series.
Top scorers:
Paris-Levallois: J.Williams 20+5reb+1ast, E.Chatfield 13+5reb+5ast, J.Aka 11+4reb, T.Meacham 9+5reb+4ast, D.Noel 8+5reb, G.Oniangue 6+2reb+1ast
Gravelines: A.Albicy 19+1reb+4ast, J.Johnson 15+2reb+1ast, L.Vaty 13+5reb+1ast, J.Edwards 11+2reb+1ast, J.Reynolds 8+4reb+2ast, C.Akpomedah 8+5reb
gschID: 133717



ProB Round 33: Leader Limoges CSP Elite loses to Aix-Maurienne - by Eurobasket News

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

Top ranked Limoges CSP Elite (26-7) recorded its seventh loss at the home court on Saturday night. Hosts were defeated by fourth ranked Aix-Maurienne (22-11) 71-65. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Limoges CSP Elite. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Limoges CSP Elite won third quarter 26-18. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Limoges CSP Elite 41-27 including 29 on the defensive glass. The best player for the winners was American-DR Congolese power forward Bambale Osby (203-86, college: Maryland) who had a double-double by scoring 17 points and 19 rebounds. American Wilbert Brown (199-84, college: Niagara, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices) chipped in 14 points and 10 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was the former international guard Joseph Gomis (180-78) who recorded 17 points and 4 assists. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Aix-Maurienne have a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain fourth place with 22-11 record. Limoges CSP Elite at the other side still keeps top position with seven games lost. Aix-Maurienne are looking forward to face JL Bourg (#11) at home in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Limoges CSP Elite will play against Nantes (#13) and is hoping to win this game.
Twelfth ranked Olympique Antibes won an overtime thriller against 11th ranked JL Bourg by one point 92-91. The game took place in Bourg. But the guests from Antibes were better at the end. It was a good game for American Cecil Brown (193-83, college: UCSB) who saved his team from a defeat with 19 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. Moussa Badiane contributed with 16 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. American guard Jimmy Baxter (198-80, college: S.Florida, agency: Court Side) answered with 23 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists for JL Bourg. Olympique Antibes (15-18) moved-up to tenth place, which they share with Bourg and St Vallier. Olympique Antibes will play against Quimper UJAP (#17) at home in the next round and are hoping to win another game. JL Bourg will play against Aix-Maurienne (#4) in Aix-les-Bains and hopes to get back on the winning track.
The game with biggest result difference took place in Reims. Local Chalons-Reims (23-10) outscored 14th ranked Le Portel (12-21) 98-59 on Friday night. Bryan Mullins stepped up and scored 7 points and 13 assists for the winners. Chalons-Reims' coach Nikola Antic felt very confident that he used 11 players and allowed the starting five to rest. The best for the losing side was Nigel Wyatte with 14 points and 6 rebounds. Chalons-Reims maintains third place with 23-10 record having just three points less than leader Limoges. Loser Le Portel dropped to the fifteenth position with 21 games lost. Chalons-Reims will meet Saint Vallier (#10) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Le Portel will play against the league's second-placed Boulazac Basket (#2) and hope to secure a win.

Other games of round 33 were quite predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are:
Nantes defeated Quimper in a road game 82-66. Rouen smashed Denain at home 95-75. Evreux was destroyed by Boulazac on the opponent's court 87-62. Boulogne managed to outperform St Vallier in a home game 98-81. Vichy was rolled over Fos Ouest on the road 76-53. Bordeaux defeated Lille on its own court 82-74.
The best stats of 33th round was 22 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists by Jason Siggers of Rouen.


Quimper - Nantes 66-82

There was no surprise when 17th ranked Quimper UJAP (9-24) was defeated at home by thirteenth ranked Nantes (14-19) 82-66 on Saturday. The game was mostly controlled by Nantes. Quimper UJAP managed to win second period 18-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Nantes dominated down low during the game scoring 56 of its points in the paint compared to Quimper UJAP's 20. Nantes forced 20 Quimper UJAP turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. Armand Charles (193-83) stepped up and scored 15 points, 7 assists and 4 steals for the winners and Senegalese forward Elson Mendy (200-85) chipped in 18 points. Nantes' coach Guillaume Quintard used a ten-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. The best for the losing side was Liberian-American Pele Paelay (193-84, college: Co.Carolina, agency: Two Points) with 17 points and 4 steals and Aurelien Salmon (204-87) scored 13 points. Nantes maintains thirteenth place with 14-19 record. Loser Quimper UJAP keeps the seventeenth position with 24 games lost. Nantes will meet league's leader Limoges CSP Elite on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Quimper UJAP will play against Olympique Antibes (#12) and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Nantes: E.Mendy 18+4reb, A.Charles 15+3reb+7ast, M.Badiane 12+7reb+2ast, M.Drame 7, D.Fergerson 7+5reb+2ast, N.Gayon 7+4reb+4ast
Quimper: P.Paelay 17+2reb+1ast, A.Salmon 13+3reb+1ast, N.Roche 9+5reb, G.Lessort 8+5reb, W.Molas 8+6reb+1ast, V.Mouillard 8+2reb+4ast
gschID: 140308


Rouen - Denain 95-75

No shocking result in a game when fourteenth ranked SPO Rouen (13-20) smashed at home 16th ranked Denain Voltaire (11-22) 95-75 on Saturday. The game was mostly controlled by SPO Rouen. Denain Voltaire managed to win fourth quarter 20-18. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. It was a great shooting night for SPO Rouen especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 52.4 percentage. American Jason Siggers (189-85, college: Albany) stepped up and scored 22 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners and guard Pierric Poupet (191-84) chipped in 20 points and 7 assists (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field). Four SPO Rouen players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was American power forward Ryan Rossiter (204-89, college: Siena) with 15 points and 8 rebounds and Lamine Kante (200-87) scored 13 points. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. SPO Rouen have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain fourteenth place with 13-20 record. Newly promoted Denain Voltaire keeps the sixteenth position with 22 games lost. SPO Rouen will meet JA Vichy (#18) on the road in the next round. Denain Voltaire will play against Bordeaux and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Rouen: J.Siggers 22+6reb+4ast, S.Dia 21+7reb, P.Poupet 20+1reb+7ast, A.Dunn 11+5reb, C.Bronchard 6+4reb+2ast, L.Chelle 5+2reb+1ast
Denain: R.Rossiter 15+8reb, L.Kante 13+4reb+1ast, R.Brocheray 10+3reb, J.James 8+6reb+4ast, N.Rohnert 8+5reb+1ast, M.Mubarak 5+1ast
gschID: 151913


Boulazac - Evreux 87-62

Very expected game when 8th ranked ALM Evreux (16-17) was rolled over on the road by second ranked Boulazac Basket (24-9) 87-62 on Saturday. The game without a history. Boulazac Basket led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 52 of its points in the paint compared to ALM Evreux's 32 and made 23-of-29 free shots (79.3 percent) during the game. They outrebounded ALM Evreux 37-21 including a 26-15 advantage in defensive rebounds. The game was dominated by American players. Amadi McKenzie (201-86) stepped up and scored 19 points and 5 rebounds for the winners and power forward Darryl Monroe (202-86, college: George Mason, agency: Two Points) chipped in 14 points and 9 rebounds (went 8 for 8 at the free throw line). The best for the losing side was point guard Austen Rowland (186-81, college: Lehigh, agency: Court Side) with 18 points and 4 assists and power forward Jeremiah Wood (200-85, agency: Court Side) scored 13 points and 6 rebounds. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Boulazac Basket maintains second place with 24-9 record having just two points less than leader Limoges. Loser ALM Evreux keeps the eighth position with 17 games lost. They share it with Lille. Boulazac Basket will meet Le Portel (#15) on the road in the next round which should be another easy win for them. ALM Evreux will play against SO Maritime Boulogne (#7) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Boulazac: A.McKenzie 19+5reb+1ast, R.Ayers 15+4reb+1ast, D.Monroe 14+9reb+2ast, Y.Gaillou 9+2reb, T.Dubiez 9+4reb+4ast, K.Morlende 8+4reb+3ast
Evreux: A.Rowland 18+1reb+4ast, J.Wood 13+6reb+2ast, S.Ho You Fat 10, L.Konate 9+1ast, G.Florimont 4, M.Correa 4+7reb
gschID: 140302


Boulogne - St Vallier 98-81

Rather predictable result when seventh ranked SO Maritime Boulogne (18-15) beat at home 10th ranked Saint Vallier (15-18) 98-81 on Saturday. Saint Vallier was trailing by 6 points at halftime but managed to get 1-point lead after three quarters before a 32-14 charge of SO Maritime Boulogne, which allowed them to win the game. They made 19-of-24 free shots (79.2 percent) during the game. SO Maritime Boulogne looked well-organized offensively handing out 26 assists. American swingman Chris McCray (196-84, college: Maryland, agency: VVG Sports) stepped up and scored 16 points, 8 assists and 6 steals for the winners and his fellow American import Corey Rouse (204-84, college: E.Carolina, agency: Court Side) chipped in 14 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field). The best for the losing side was American LaQuan Prowell (203-84, college: Auburn) with 17 points and 9 rebounds and naturalized Ivorian point guard Mickael Toti (181-87) scored 15 points and 5 assists. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. SO Maritime Boulogne maintains seventh place with 18-15 record. Loser Saint Vallier keeps the tenth position with 18 games lost. They share it with Bourg and Antibes. SO Maritime Boulogne will meet ALM Evreux (#8) on the road in the next round. Saint Vallier will play against Chalons-Reims and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Boulogne: C.McCray 16+4reb+8ast, T.Stanley 15+5reb, C.Rouse 14+9reb+4ast, Z.Bah 12+3ast, J.Mathis 11+7reb+4ast, J.Leria 8+1reb
St Vallier: L.Prowell 17+9reb+1ast, M.Toti 15+2reb+5ast, S.Barrett 13+4reb+2ast, H.Disy 11+5reb+3ast, K.Shiloh 11+4reb+5ast, F.Tortosa 8+4ast
gschID: 140303


Bourg - Antibes 91-92 OT

Twelfth ranked Olympique Antibes won an overtime thriller against 11th ranked JL Bourg by one point 92-91. The game took place in Bourg. But the guests from Antibes were better at the end. It looked good early as JL Bourg took an 18-point lead at the end of first quarter. Then Olympique Antibes took control and eventually winning the game that evening in overtime by 1 point. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 21 assists. It was a good game for American Cecil Brown (193-83, college: UCSB) who saved his team from a defeat with 19 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. Naturalized Senegalese center Moussa Badiane (205-81, college: E.Carolina) contributed with 16 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. American guard Jimmy Baxter (198-80, college: S.Florida, agency: Court Side) answered with 23 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists and Senegalese power forward Ousmane Barro (207-84, college: Marquette) added 20 points and 9 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) in the effort for JL Bourg. Five Olympique Antibes and four JL Bourg players scored in double figures. Olympique Antibes (15-18) moved-up to tenth place, which they share with Bourg and St Vallier. Olympique Antibes will play against Quimper UJAP (#17) at home in the next round and are hoping to win another game. JL Bourg will play against Aix-Maurienne (#4) in Aix-les-Bains and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Antibes: C.Brown 19+7reb+5ast, J.Allen 16+9reb+1ast, S.Essart 16+2reb+2ast, M.Badiane 16+7reb+4ast, F.Prenom 15+5reb, B.Monclar 6+2reb+3ast
Bourg: J.Baxter 23+6reb+4ast, J.Delhomme 21+1reb+8ast, O.Barro 20+9reb+2ast, J.Volcy 11+11reb+4ast, C.Ferchaud 8+1reb+3ast, O.Da Silveira 4+3reb+1ast
gschID: 140304


Fos Ouest - Vichy 76-53

Not a big story in a game when 18th ranked JA Vichy (7-26) was outplayed on the road by fifth ranked Fos Ouest (21-12) 76-53 on Friday. The game without a history. Fos Ouest led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Fos Ouest dominated down low during the game scoring 48 of its points in the paint compared to JA Vichy's 28. Fos Ouest looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists comparing to just 8 passes made by JA Vichy's players. American Bill Clark (195-88, college: Duquesne) stepped up and scored 25 points for the winners and Jamaican-American Sherman Gay (201-82, college: Loyola Mary) chipped in 10 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists. Four Fos Ouest players scored in double figures. Fos Ouest's coach Remi Giutta felt very confident that he used 11 players and allowed the starting five to rest. The best for the losing side was guard Mathieu Guichard (188-88) with 16 points and American-Ivorian guard Errick Craven (188-83, college: USC) scored 13 points and 7 rebounds. Fos Ouest maintains fifth place with 21-12 record. JA Vichy lost seventh consecutive game. They keep the eighteenth position with 26 games lost. Fos Ouest will meet Lille Metropole (#9) on the road in the next round. JA Vichy will play against SPO Rouen (#14) and hope to secure a win and be promoted back to the ProA just one year after relegation.
Top scorers:
Fos Ouest: B.Clark 25+3reb+3ast, R.Roby 14+4reb+1ast, E.Choquet 13+3reb+5ast, S.Gay 10+10reb+4ast, M.Dia 6+7reb+1ast, C.Cavallo 4+1reb
Vichy: M.Guichard 16+4reb+1ast, E.Craven 13+7reb, M.Jefferson 10+4reb, O.Ikuesan 5+2reb, S.Dondon 5+4reb+1ast, N.Diakite 2+3reb+2ast
gschID: 140305


Limoges - Maurienne 65-71

Top ranked Limoges CSP Elite (26-7) recorded its seventh loss at the home court on Saturday night. Hosts were defeated by fourth ranked Aix-Maurienne (22-11) 71-65. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Limoges CSP Elite. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Limoges CSP Elite won third quarter 26-18. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Limoges CSP Elite 41-27 including 29 on the defensive glass. The best player for the winners was American-DR Congolese power forward Bambale Osby (203-86, college: Maryland) who had a double-double by scoring 17 points and 19 rebounds. American Wilbert Brown (199-84, college: Niagara, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices) chipped in a double-double by scoring 14 points and 10 rebounds. Osby is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. At the other side the best for losing team was the former international guard Joseph Gomis (180-78) who recorded 17 points and 4 assists and American forward Landon Milbourne (201-87, college: Maryland) added 13 points (went 10 for 10 at the free throw line !!!) respectively. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Aix-Maurienne have a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain fourth place with 22-11 record. Limoges CSP Elite at the other side still keeps top position with seven games lost. Aix-Maurienne are looking forward to face JL Bourg (#11) at home in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Limoges CSP Elite will play against Nantes (#13) and is hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
Maurienne: B.Osby 17+19reb+3ast, W.Brown 14+10reb, S.Darnauzan 13+4reb+5ast, D.Tucker 8+2reb+1ast, M.Houmounou 7+1reb+1ast, A.Gomisz 4
Limoges: J.Gomis 17+4ast, L.Milbourne 13+4reb+1ast, K.McAlarney 10+2reb+1ast, R.Desroses 9+4reb+4ast, S.Traore 8+1reb, N.Boungou Colo 4+2reb+1ast
gschID: 140306


Chalons-Reims - Le Portel 98-59

The game with biggest result difference took place in Reims. Local Chalons-Reims (23-10) outscored 14th ranked Le Portel (12-21) 98-59 on Friday night. The game without a history. Chalons-Reims led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They shot the lights out from three sinking 14 long-distance shots on high 51.9 percentage. Chalons-Reims looked well-organized offensively handing out 26 assists. American-Irish point guard Bryan Mullins (185-87, college: S.Illinois) stepped up and scored 7 points and 13 assists for the winners and swingman Rodrigue Mels (188-85, college: CS Northridge, agency: Court Side) chipped in 16 points. Four Chalons-Reims players scored in double figures. Chalons-Reims' coach Nikola Antic felt very confident that he used 11 players and allowed the starting five to rest. The best for the losing side was American power forward Nigel Wyatte (204-81, college: Wagner, agency: Court Side) with 14 points and 6 rebounds and guard Benoit Mangin (196-88) scored 14 points. Chalons-Reims maintains third place with 23-10 record having just three points less than leader Limoges. Loser Le Portel dropped to the fifteenth position with 21 games lost. Chalons-Reims will meet Saint Vallier (#10) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Le Portel will play against the league's second-placed Boulazac Basket (#2) and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Chalons-Reims: G.Chathuant 18+3reb+1ast, R.Mels 16+4reb+3ast, N.Carter 15+3reb, C.Daniels 10+8reb+2ast, K.Joss-Rauze 10+1ast, E.Plateau 10+3reb+3ast
Le Portel: N.Wyatte 14+6reb+1ast, B.Mangin 14+2reb+1ast, J.Ludon 8+3reb+2ast, M.N'Diaye 6+1reb+2ast, R.Taylor 6+2reb+3ast, M.Labeyrie 5+3reb+2ast
gschID: 140307


Bordeaux - Lille 82-74

Everything went according to plan when sixth ranked Bordeaux (20-13) won against at home 9th ranked Lille Metropole (16-17) 82-74 on Friday. Lille Metropole trailed by 15 points after 3 quarters before a 24-17 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 74-82 at the end of the game. Bordeaux made 21-of-25 free shots (84.0 percent) during the game, while Lille Metropole only scored five points from the stripe. Bordeaux forced 19 Lille Metropole turnovers and outrebounded them 36-22 including a 26-13 advantage in defensive rebounds. American guard O'Darien Bassett (191-86, college: Troy) stepped up and scored 19 points and 9 rebounds for the winners and his fellow American import power forward John Ford (207-78, college: Colorado St.) chipped in 12 points and 7 rebounds. Five Bordeaux players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was American Steve Smith (200-81, college: Iona, agency: Top Notch Sports) with 21 points and swingman Benoit Gillet (191-86) scored 22 points. Lille Metropole's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Bordeaux have an impressive series of five victories in a row. Newly promoted Bordeaux maintains sixth place with 20-13 record. Lille Metropole lost fourth consecutive game. They dropped to the eighth position with 17 games lost. They share it with Evreux. Bordeaux will meet Denain Voltaire (#16) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Lille Metropole will play against Fos Ouest (#5) and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Bordeaux: O.Bassett 19+9reb+2ast, K.Cunningham 14+2reb, B.Elisabeth-Mesnager 13+2reb+2ast, J.Ford 12+7reb+1ast, G.Darrigand 12+3reb+4ast, M.Doubal 6+2reb+1ast
Lille: B.Gillet 22+1ast, S.Smith 21+3reb, S.Bradford 10+7reb+1ast, M.Tensorer 6+3reb+7ast, C.Marshall 5+3reb+1ast, N.Taccoen 4+1reb+1ast
gschID: 140301



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


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

Eurobasket.com All-Macedonian League 1st Team 2012
#s#
Todor Gecevski
Gecevski
Dimitar Karadzovski
Karadzovski
Noah Dahlman
Dahlman
Justin Reynolds
Reynolds
Dusan Knezevic
Knezevic
#e#5

Player of the Year: Todor Gecevski (209-C-77) of MZT Skopje
Guard of the Year: Dimitar Karadzovski (190-G-84) of Torus Skopje
Forward of the Year: Noah Dahlman (200-F-89) of MZT Skopje
Center of the Year: Todor Gecevski (209-C-77) of MZT Skopje
Defensive Player of the Year: Jarrid Frye (194-G/F-85) of Feni Indistrija
Coach of the Year: Aleksandar Todorov of MZT Skopje

1st Team
G: Dimitar Karadzovski (190-84) of Torus Skopje
F: Noah Dahlman (200-89) of MZT Skopje
F/C: Justin Reynolds (204-88) of Torus Skopje
C: Dusan Knezevic (207-80) of Feni Indistrija
C: Todor Gecevski (209-77) of MZT Skopje

2nd Team
G: Darko Radulovic (194-80) of Feni Indistrija
G/F: Jarrid Frye (194-85) of Feni Indistrija
G: Vladimir Filipovic (195-85) of Lirija
F: Dejan Mikic (201-86) of Kumanovo
C/F: Nemanja Jelesijevic (210-79) of Rabotnicki

Honorable Mention
Carlos Morban (187-G-82) of Lirija
Igor Mijajlovic (193-G-84) of MZT Skopje
Darko Radulovic (194-G-80) of Feni Indistrija
Milos Pavlovic (210-F/C-84) of Rabotnicki
Milan Janjusevic (196-F-83) of Kumanovo
Toni Simic (210-C-76) of Lirija
Gjorgi Cekovski (203-F/C-79) of MZT Skopje
Bojan Trajkovski (206-C/F-88) of Torus Skopje
Kiril Nikolovski (210-C/F-88) of Feni Indistrija



*****************************************************
  GABON   


Retrospection and analysis Cup Gabon Mouila, 24-28 April 2012. - by Rodrigue Olivier Kassa

Gabon: Retrospection and analysis Cup Gabon Mouila, 24-28 April 2012.

Final position:
First Somo B
2nd: Stadium Mandji (POG)
3rd: Toungui BB (LBV)
4th: Manga BB (Moanda)
5th: Bonguema BB (Mouila)
6th: Engong BB (Oyem)
7th: Hope BC (LBV)
8th: Izo BB (Lambarn)
9th: Aces of the Estuary (LBV)
10th: Rangers BB (LBV)
11th: Olympic Mandji (POG)
12th: BA BB (POG)

Nominees

In Men

Top Assists: Yannick Belinga (Somo B): 7.3 assists per game
Best rebounder: Sylvain Campani (Somo B): 10.1 rebound per game
Top scorer: Engone Etsina (Bonguema): 20.7 ppg
Best Defender: Sylvain Campani (Somo B)
Tournament MVP: Yannick Belinga (Somo B)
Trophy of encouragement: Bonguema BB
Trophy 3rd place: Toungui BB
Trophy of recognition (Print Media): Mikolo Mikolo the daily 'Union'

In the women

Top Assists: Angue Tania (Somo B): 4.0 assists per game
Best rebounder: Ongandia Leslie (Somo B): 7.3 rebound per game
Top scorer: Nzengue Emilienne (Somo B): 13.3 ppg
Best Defender: Fabiola Folake (Ndella BB)
Tournament MVP: Obone N'nang Audrey (Ndella BB)

The views of informed observers and technicians.

Bouanga Thierry, A national coach of the Panthers, coach of Stade Mandji, beaten finalists: ' (...) As the head coach national, I am concerned about the performance of teams in which players move the majority of the national team ...'

IBAMA, coach Manga BB says : 'Big-cons Manga performance relative to expectations of the group. But it was a bit too obvious. We spent a long time without playing, in addition to motion in the mood of the players. Then we had a week of preparation for this competition. I used this test to see the flaws in this group that I had never tested as a result of the action. Lucidly, I noted the shortcomings of the team. It should already psychologically reframe the group and give the basics of building at all levels (in defense and attack). I am very surprised that my team so that the semi-final stage (...) the level of the championship and Gabon that we provide the training, it is day and night. Why, given the level of the test, I am surprised that my team is fourth (...) If you watch the play of each other, apart from changing Mandji Stadium with offensive rotations, which are principles of modern game, no plays so placed ... '

ARIMBI Nkolo, coach Toungui BB says: 'Deception finished in third place. I must admit that BB Toungui who came to play the final, did not know the Mandji Stadium, and three-point shots did not work. It was a major handicap for us. After this failure, it only remains now to win the play-offs elite national championship. I hope the Gods will be with us to win the title. The level of this cut was average ... '.

Allogho Servais, coach Somo B says : 'Very happy and full of emotion. This is a very good year ahead for SomoB who came here in Mouila with the ambition to win this trophy. From the outset, Somo showed a strong signal. We have minimized any team. We played very strong tactically, technically and physically. By our seriousness, we're showing that Somo B returns to the arena of basketball Gabon. We still have the national championship and the Africa Cup. All these goals must be achieved. '

Gondjout Didier, coach Ndella (Ladies) says : 'Satisfaction. But must recognize that face a tough opponent today, our girls were a little tense. They have transcended over the last two quarters-time. Congratulations to my players. '





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

Geogian Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Larry BLAIR
  MIA Academy
  (183-G-84)
  Avg: 26
 1. Blair, MIA Academy26.0 
 2. Carter, Dinamo T.23.4 
 3. Parghalava, Sokhu.22.0 
 4. Patsatsia, Sokhumi19.2 
 5. Smith, MIA Academy17.8 
 6. Keshelava, Batumi17.3 
 7. Woodside, Armia17.1 
 8. Khmelidze, Rustavi16.7 
 9. Niniashvili, TSU T.16.4 
 10. Thomas, Armia16.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Keyon CARTER
  Dinamo T.
  (203-F-88)
  Avg: 13.9
 1. Carter, Dinamo T.13.9 
 2. Dvalishvili, Samed.10.1 
 3. Patsatsia, Sokhumi10.0 
 4. Matiashvili, Kutai.9.5 
 5. Oluic, Dinamo Tbil.9.1 
 6. Hoger, Olimpi8.8 
 7. Keshelava, Batumi8.6 
 8. Smith, MIA Academy8.5 
 9. Milutinovic, Olimpi8.4 
 10. Machaladze, STU8.3 
Assists Per Game
 Giorgi GAMQRELIDZE
  Olimpi
  (183-G-86)
  Avg: 8.1
 1. Gamqrelidze, Olimpi8.1 
 2. Woodside, Armia7.2 
 3. Chitashvili, TSU T.6.6 
 4. Blair, MIA Academy6.4 
 5. Mikeladze, Batumi5.5 
 6. Parghalava, Sokhu.5.1 
 7. Artsividze, Rustavi4.8 
 8. Tsekvava, Kutaisi4.6 
 9. Pashayev, Kutaisi4.3 
 10. Patsatsia, Sokhu.4.2 
Steals Per Game
 Larry BLAIR
  MIA Academy
  (183-G-84)
  Avg: 3.2
 1. Blair, MIA Academy3.2 
 2. Woodside, Armia2.9 
 3. Ramishvili, Batumi2.5 
 4. Kokhreidze, TSU T.2.3 
 5. Machaladze, STU T.2.0 
 6. Chitashvili, TSU T.2.0 
 7. Antadze, STU T.1.9 
 8. Diaz, Armia1.8 
 9. Patsatsia, Sokhumi1.8 
 10. Mikeladze, Batumi1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Milan OLUIC
  Dinamo Tbilisi
  (210-C-84)
  Avg: 4.1
 1. Oluic, Dinamo Tbil.4.1 
 2. Kjellbom, Armia1.8 
 3. Matiashvili, Kutai.1.2 
 4. Milutinovic, Olimpi1.2 
 5. Atuashvili, Sokhumi1.2 
 6. Hoger, Olimpi1.0 
 7. Machaladze, STU T.1.0 
 8. Shermadini, TSU T.0.9 
 9. Antadze, STU T.0.8 
 10. Smith, MIA Acade.0.8 


Superleague Round 2 of Quarter-Finals - by Eurobasket News

Dinamo Tbilisi - Olimpi 86-91

The guests were ahead by 1 point but lost the second period ending it with a 4-point deficit before their 26-17 run, which allowed them to win the game. Olimpi outrebounded Dinamo Tbilisi 45-32 including 19 on the offensive glass. International guard Georgi Tsintsadze (192-86) notched 32 points and 8 rebounds to lead the effort and Montenegrin power forward Ivan Todorovic (214-84, agency: Interperformances) supported him with 10 points and 10 rebounds. Five Olimpi players scored in double figures. Even a double-double of 23 points and 15 rebounds by American forward Keyon Carter (203-88, college: ODU) did not help to save the game for Dinamo Tbilisi. Swingman Duda Sanadze (196-92) added 26 points for the hosts.
Top scorers:
Olimpi: G.Tsintsadze 32+8reb+3ast, I.Hoger 12+7reb, I.Todorovic 10+10reb+1ast, M.Berishvili 10+6reb+2ast, G.Gamqrelidze 10+5reb+3ast, N.Tutus 9+3reb+3ast
Dinamo Tbilisi: D.Sanadze 26+4reb+2ast, K.Carter 23+15reb, A.Zecevic 13+5reb+2ast, M.Oluic 9+2reb+2ast, A.Gruev 7+1reb+7ast, I.Keidia 4+3reb+1ast
gschID: 176150


TSU Tbilisi - Kutaisi 86-79

The hosts started the game with a very strong first quarter 31-6. But Kutaisi won second period 26-13. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. TSU dominated on the defensive end, holding Kutaisi to just 6 points in first quarter. Guard Beqa Chikviladze (195-91) orchestrated the victory by scoring 29 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. Guard Mikheil Chitashvili (193-84, agency: Regeneracom Sports) contributed with 21 points, 7 assists and 4 steals for the winners. Center Richard Matiashvili (209-89) replied with a double-double by scoring 19 points, 10 rebounds and 8 assists and Serbian forward Darko Cohadarevic (206-86, college: Texas Tech) added 15 points and 10 rebounds in the effort for Kutaisi. Four Kutaisi players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
TSU Tbilisi: B.Chikviladze 29+7reb+5ast, M.Chitashvili 21+3reb+7ast, Z.Maisuradze 19+4reb+4ast, D.Khizanishvili 9+1reb, S.Shermadini 8+11reb, G.Bakradze 0
Kutaisi: R.Matiashvili 19+10reb+8ast, D.Barbakadze 16+7reb+2ast, D.Cohadarevic 15+10reb+1ast, G.Barbakadze 11+4reb+1ast, Z.Pashayev 7+4reb+8ast, L.Tsekvava 6+5reb+3ast
gschID: 176151


Samedicino - Armia 76-114

The game without a history. Armia 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 Samedicino-Academia's 38 and made 35-of-43 free shots (81.4 percent) during the game, while Samedicino-Academia only scored fourteen points from the stripe. Armia forced 27 Samedicino-Academia turnovers and outrebounded them 42-28 including 16 on the offensive glass. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 25 assists. The best player for the winners was American point guard Ben Woodside (180-85, college: N.Dakota St., agency: Priority Sports) who scored 18 points, 6 assists and 4 steals. The other American import Will Thomas (203-86, agency: Two Points) chipped in 13 points and 7 rebounds. Five Armia players scored in double figures. Guard Konstantine Tomaradze (197-90) produced 16 points and forward Grigol Shvangiradze (196-91, agency: Regeneracom Sports) added 13 points respectively for the hosts. 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:
Armia: J.Richardson 18+1reb+2ast, B.Woodside 18+6ast, Z.Babiashvili 16+4reb+1ast, W.Thomas 13+7reb+1ast, V.Minashvili 12+7reb, G.Diaz 11+4reb+2ast
Samedicino: K.Tomaradze 16+4reb+3ast, G.Shvangiradze 13+2reb+1ast, G.Periashvili 8+5reb, M.Chochua 7+2reb+4ast, A.Dvalishvili 7+2reb+2ast, F.Samojlovic 5+2ast
gschID: 176148


Sokhumi - MIA Academy 81-79

The hosts trailed by 3 points after three quarters before their 21-16 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Sokhumi made 22-of-26 free shots (84.6 percent) during the game. 28 personal fouls committed by MIA helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Maltese-American Joshua Jackson (189-85, college: Warner Pacific, agency: Interperformances) scored 18 points and 7 assists to lead the charge for the winners and Montenegrin center Stevan Milosevic (211-85, agency: Interperformances) chipped in 18 points and 7 rebounds during the contest. Five Sokhumi players scored in double figures. American guard Larry Blair (183-84, college: Liberty) responded with 31 points and 5 rebounds and his fellow American import forward Tracy Smith (203, college: N.Carolina St., agency: Strategic Sports) scored 21 points and 6 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game.
Top scorers:
Sokhumi: S.Milosevic 18+7reb, J.Jackson 18+1reb+7ast, L.Parghalava 17+1reb+1ast, L.Patsatsia 11+7reb+5ast, R.Richards 10+8reb+1ast, G.Gaprindashvili 4+1ast
MIA Academy: L.Blair 31+5reb+2ast, T.Smith 21+6reb+1ast, A.Trepalovac 10+3reb, I.Londaridze 6+3reb, J.Tubbs 6+3reb+1ast, D.Imnadze 3+1reb
gschID: 176149



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

Stats Leaders - 1.Bundesliga

Points Per Game
 Bobby BROWN
  EWE Baskets
  (188-G-84)
  Avg: 16.9
 1. Brown, EWE Baskets16.9 
 2. Holston, Art.Drag.15.6 
 3. Swann, Ratiopharm15.5 
 4. Tucker, Brose B.15.5 
 5. Wood, ALBA15.4 
 6. Ensminger, Teleko.14.8 
 7. Jonusas, Phoenix14.8 
 8. Bryant, Ratiopharm14.5 
 9. Peavy, Art.Dragons14.5 
 10. Carter, Phoenix14.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 John BRYANT
  Ratiopharm
  (208-C-87)
  Avg: 9.2
 1. Bryant, Ratiopharm9.2 
 2. Chubb, EWE Baskets8.5 
 3. Ensminger, Teleko.7.6 
 4. Homan, B.Muenchen7.4 
 5. Troutman, B.Mue.7.1 
 6. Tucker, Brose B.7.1 
 7. Zirbes, TBB Trier7.1 
 8. Watts, Ratiopharm6.6 
 9. Evans, Goettingen6.6 
 10. Ovcina, LTi 46ers6.5 
Assists Per Game
 Jared JORDAN
  Telekom .
  (188-PG-84)
  Avg: 8.2
 1. Jordan, Telekom8.2 
 2. Holston, Art.Drag.5.9 
 3. Brewer, Bremerha.5.1 
 4. Wood, ALBA4.9 
 5. Everett, Bremerha.4.9 
 6. Brown, EWE Baskets4.7 
 7. Joyce, TBB Trier4.4 
 8. Hamann, B.Muenchen4.4 
 9. Campbell, Walter T.4.1 
 10. Bauscher, Goett.3.9 
Steals Per Game
 Nate LINHART
  TBB Trier
  (201-F-86)
  Avg: 1.7
 1. Linhart, TBB Trier1.7 
 2. Kramer, s.Oliv.1.6 
 3. Trice, Ratiopharm1.4 
 4. Redding, Walter T.1.4 
 5. Gibson, Fraport SKY1.4 
 6. Bernard, LTi 46ers1.4 
 7. Holston, Art.Drag.1.4 
 8. Dorris, EnBW L.1.4 
 9. Carter, Phoenix1.3 
 10. Gaffney, Teleko.1.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Tony GAFFNEY
  Teleko.
  (204-F-84)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Gaffney, Teleko.1.8 
 2. Davidson, Fraport1.7 
 3. Ibekwe, Bayreuth1.6 
 4. Looby, EnBW L.1.6 
 5. Homan, B.Muenchen1.5 
 6. Pleiss, Brose B.1.3 
 7. Bryant, Ratiopharm1.3 
 8. Slaughter, Brose B.1.2 
 9. King, Art.Dragons1.1 
 10. Constantine, Phoe.0.9 


Stats Leaders - 2.Bundesliga

Points Per Game
 Martin SAMARCO
  Karlsruhe
  (191-G-85)
  Avg: 20.8
 1. Samarco, Karlsruhe20.8 
 2. McKiver, Braves20.2 
 3. Alexander, ETB W.18.5 
 4. Reese, Duesseldorf17.9 
 5. Hassan, Leitersh.17.6 
 6. Roessler, Karlsruhe17.1 
 7. Mason, Webmoebel17.1 
 8. Reid, MBC16.9 
 9. Lipke, Leitershofen16.4 
 10. Howard, Karlsruhe16.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Justin HOWARD
  Karlsruhe
  (208-C-81)
  Avg: 10.3
 1. Howard, Karlsruhe10.3 
 2. Alawoya, Braves8.5 
 3. Uskoski, Kirchheim8.1 
 4. Richardson, Leiter.7.9 
 5. Black, Jena7.7 
 6. Gerwig, Cuxhaven7.6 
 7. Shaw, Chemnitz7.6 
 8. Harris, Cuxhaven7.3 
 9. Moore, Karlsruhe7.1 
 10. Buechert, Ehingen7.0 
Assists Per Game
 Ahmad SMITH
  Kirchheim
  (194-G-84)
  Avg: 6.7
 1. Smith, Kirchheim6.7 
 2. Jeka, Braves5.2 
 3. Johnson, Chemnitz5.0 
 4. Rice, Cuxhaven4.9 
 5. Holcomb Faye, MBC4.4 
 6. Burgess, Heidelberg4.3 
 7. Chavis, NBC4.3 
 8. Reese, Duesseldorf4.0 
 9. Williamson, Ehingen3.9 
 10. Wendt, Webmoebel3.8 
Steals Per Game
 Gary JOHNSON
  Chemnitz
  (188-PG-82)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Johnson, Chemnitz2.2 
 2. Bowlin, Leitershof.2.0 
 3. Matthews, Ehingen1.9 
 4. Rice, Cuxhaven1.8 
 5. Brooks, Kirchheim1.8 
 6. Capel, Cuxhaven1.6 
 7. Alexander, ETB W.1.5 
 8. Harris, NBC1.4 
 9. Smith, Kirchheim1.4 
 10. Alawoya, Braves1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Dmitriy CHEREMNYKH
  Braves
  (213-C-78)
  Avg: 1.6
 1. Cheremnykh, Braves1.6 
 2. De Michael, NBC1.4 
 3. Williamson, Ehingen1.2 
 4. Zipser, Heidelberg1.0 
 5. Howard, Karlsruhe0.9 
 6. Harris, Cuxhaven0.9 
 7. Flomo, Duesseldorf0.9 
 8. Lawson, Chemnitz0.9 
 9. Schoo, Heidelberg0.8 
 10. Buechert, Ehingen0.8 


Dane Watts (ratiopharm Ulm) It Doesnt Matter What Happened The 3 Games Before, But That We Win 3 Games Now - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber


Dane Watts (203-F-86, agency: Pro One Sports) is a 25 year old 203cm forward from Warrensburg, Missouri. He is playing his first season for ratiopharm Ulm. He played at Creighton (NCAA) from 2004-2008 with NBA player Anthony Tolliver. In his senior year, he played 33 games: 11.3ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 53.4%, 3Pts: 42.5%, FT: 71.8%. In 2008, he came to Germany and started his professional basketball career with EnBW Ludwigsburg (Germany-1.Bundesliga, starting five): 32 games: 8.9ppg, 3.8rpg, FGP-1 (68.4%), 3PT: 30.8%, FT: 68.7%. In 2009-2010, he came to The Walter Tigers Tuebingen playing 34 games: 10.2ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 37.6%, FT: 71.0%. Last season for Tuebingen, he played 33 games: 13.7ppg, Reb-4 (7.6rpg), 1.1apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 57.9%, 3PT: 36.7%, FT: 54.5%; in May'11 moved to Hyeres-Toulon Var Basket (France-ProA): 3 games: 7.0ppg, 6.3rpg, 1.7apg, 1.0spg. At Creighton, he won awards such as MVC Tournament Winner -05, 07, MVC All-Freshman Team -05, MVC Regular Season Runner-Up -07, and MVC Tournament Semifinals -08. He spoke to eurobasket before game one against the New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig.

ratiopharm Ulm continue to share the ball nicely. How important has it been that the word ego has not been in the vocabulary of the team this season?

I think that has been a big part of our success, from guys that play 25+ mins to the guys coming off the bench, winning has been first priority.

What is your prediction for the s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg in the playoff series against Alba Berlin? Can they make an upset?

Rankings and head to head matchups during the year are out the window. Im sure nobody picked Bonn to win in Bamberg the other night, anything can happen.

ratiopharm Ulm won all three games this season against the New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig. How confident is the team going into the playoffs?

We have been a confident team all year working and building for this opportunity. It doesn't matter what happened the 3 games before, we need to win 3 games now.

The season has been long. Rocky Trice is injured. How strong is the team currently physically and mentally for the post season?

It is sad that Rocky will not be on the court battling with us in the playoffs, he is a big part of our team. There are always bumps and bruises at this time of the year but with us having numerous players that can contribute it is easier on the body.

The New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig have a very solid team that is always good for a surprise. They will be hungry to upset ratiopharm Ulm. What will be key in getting to the next round?

Staying focused on what we have been doing all year to get here. We have the home court advantage and we need to protect it.

AMARE STOUDEMIRE injured his hand after a post game loss tirade. Are you surprised that this could happen to a player like him?

Anything can happen to anyone when you let your emotions get the best of you. He was frustrated after a loss and an unfortunate accident happened.

With Rajon Rondo missing a game and the team down 1-0, will the Boston Celtics soon have summer vacation?

The Celtics are a veteran group, it will help once Ray Allen gets healthy but I don't see them going too far.

NBA commissioner David Stern suggests that this summers London Games may be the last Olympics that will see the league's top stars. He has hinted future teams may only have under 23 players. Is this something that will hurt or benefit?

It will benefit the young players but it will not be our best group of players. Everybody is always gunning to knock off team USA so it could be tougher to bring home the gold every time.

Thanks Dane for the chat.



Rich Melzer (New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig) I Feel That Sebastian Machowski Really Believes In Us - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Rich Melzer (203-F/C-79, agency: Court Side, college: Wisc.-RiverFal.) is 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 game one against ratiopharm Ulm.

How excited are you about starting the Beko BBL playoffs against ratiopharm Ulm. Is there anything better to do in May than play playoff basketball?

Its exactly where we wanted to be when the season started this year. In the playoffs, competing at the highest level of basketball in our region is what you work for for 9-10 months of the year. Its here now and its very exciting for all of us.

Braunschweig is coming off a loss against Alba Berlin. The Phantoms had a lot of injury problems this season and have lost Stephen Dennis, but now are pretty healthy. How good is the team currently physically and mentally?

Physically we're probably as healthy as we've been since the beginning of the season. That game against Berlin may not have meant much but its burned a memory in my mind personally because I felt it was a game we could have easily won had everyone been on the same page. It would have been a great opportunity for us to beat a high-caliber team heading into the playoffs with additional confidence. But as I said before, its about togetherness, and when you get one or two guys who don't completely and fully buy into the 'selflessness' of it all nothing will get accomplished. I pray to god we can all be on board when the post-season begins Saturday.

The New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig lost all three games this season. How big is the revenge factor in the team to get back at ratiopharm Ulm?

To this day, I think we all feel we should have at least won the game at home for certain, and yes, there is a bit of a revenge factor in there for us. However, we also have a match up with a team that we may not have beaten yet, but we are absolutely certain we can and will.

ratiopharm Ulm has a very strong roster and have been consistent all year long. Is controling John Bryant and Isaiah Swann 70% away from getting the win?

I think our bigs are significantly more mobile than theirs and we're deeper in our bench in terms of guys who actually play regularly on our team. Hopefully, these are factors we'll utilize to our advantage. Our guards are bigger and both I-Mac and L. Greer are exceptional post players for guards. Granted Bryant and Isaiah are the catalysts to their success, so stopping both of them on any night is a challenge in itself. I think making it very difficult for them everytime they step on the floor though however is something that is very possible and will take a team effort.

Is this the series where one could see the Beko BBL break through of guard Igor Milosevic?

Igor has played at levels higher than this before. Wheather he's played significant minutes or not I don't know but he's familiar with stress and pressure. He's also come a long way with our team in the last month even. He's made really big strides to improve as a floor-general as of late and continues to make big plays under pressure here and make better decisions. The coaches see it obviously, our teammates see it clearly that its there for him to thrive, and he's continuing to prove to all of us that he can continue to make good decisions when we need him to.

You got a first hand look how success comes playing for Chris Flemming with the Artland Dragons. Does head coach Sebastian Machowski have the extra gusto to lead this team to heroic moments?

You know, those two really have to many different approaches to the game to speak of. My memories with coach Flemming and the things I learned from him and Arnie during that season are things I've carried with me throughout my career and will certainly continue to do so. Mind you, I was injured most of that season so I had a different view to watch and observe how cerebral and informative his approach was to the game. There's no curiosity why he's had the success he has. Coach Sebastian as well has had success early in his career and I believe he will continue to do so. He gives his players the freedom and space to make things happen on the basketball court. I will say this as well, coach Machowski predicted many weeks ago we were going to win the games necessary to make the playoffs, and then go onto face Ulm in the first round. He said it with such certainty at that time that when it happened it made you realize that maybe as players we don't facilitate things as much as we thought we did , lol. Its been a treat to play for him this season and I feel he really believes in us.

AMARE STOUDEMIRE injured his hand after a post game loss tirade. Are you surprised that this could happen to a player like him?

Not as surprised as I am saddened for him and the team and just disappointed. He's one of my favorite players in the NBA. I love his charisma and athleticism and for that to happen to him is really not a good look for him and very unfortunate for the team. What can you do?

With Rajon Rondo missing a game and the team down 1-0, will the Boston Celtics soon have summer vacation?

I think they just lit a fire under Rondo that the Atlanta Hawks are going to later wish they hadn't. You talk about Chris Paul, and Derron Williams and Derrick Rose, but to often Rondo gets overlooked. In my eyes he's clearly the best PG in the league. I'd predict that when he comes back, he plays his best basketball of the season and the series goes to 7 games.

NBA commissioner David Stern suggests that this summers London Games may be the last Olympics that will see the league's top stars. He has hinted future teams may only have under 23 players. Is this something that will hurt or benefit?

I don't play in the NBA so I can say this and not worry about getting fined, But David Stern isn't all there as of late. What about Turkey, France, Ukraine, Germany, and Spain and all the other top countries that want to put their best and most skilled veterans up against the states? We're just going to throw our U-23 team in there and leave our veteran All-Stars home on the couch? I don't think the players will go for that. They all want to compete against the best in the world just like everyone else. To do that would really hurt not only the game of basketball itself as an international sport but it would hurt the Olympics. David Stern should've been replaced around lock-out time. He's not one of us.

Thanks Rich for the chat.





Bryan Bailey (Artland Dragons) We Have To Keep Homan And Troutman Out Of Their Comfort Zone - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber


Bryan Bailey (185-PG-80, college: Bucknell) is a 31 year old 185cm combo guard that is playing his 10th professional basketball season and fifth playing with The Artland Dragons. He is a true team leader both on and off the court. He possesses a diverse game, with an ability to stroke the long-range jumper, penetrate to the rim or distribute the ball. He is solid on the defensive end of the floor as well. His fierce competitive drive rubs off on his teammates. He started his professional basketball career at Bucknell and player there from 1998-2002 and in his senior year played 17games averaging 18.1ppg,5.3rpg,2.4apg. He made All-Patriot League 1st Team in 2001 and 2002. In 2002-2003, he started his professional basketball season in Germany with DJK S. Oliver Wurzburg (Germany-1Bundesliga, starting five): 26 games, 15.4ppg, 3.8rpg, 1.4spg. In 2003-2004, he played in Holland for Landstede Zwolle (Holland-Eredivisie, starting five): 35 games: 17.5ppg, 4.0rpg, 3.1apg, 2.4spg, 0.2bpg. He then played with The Artland Dragons from 2004-2007 reaching the league and cup final in 2007. His best statistical season was 2005-2006 playing 33 games and averaging 11.4ppg, 2.8rpg, 2.7apg, 1.7spg, 2FGP: 46.9%, 3PT: 25.3%. In 2007-2008, he played with Bosna ASA BH Telecom Sarajevo (Bosnia-D1, starting five): ULEB Cup: 12 games: 10.3ppg, 2.3rpg, 4.5apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 54.1%, 3PT: 20.8%, FT: 84.3%. In 2008-2009, he played in Poland for PGE Turow Zgorzelec (Poland-DBE): Eurocup: 6 games: 7.3ppg, 2.7rpg, 1.7apg, 1.7spg; Polish League: 32 games: 8.0ppg, 1.8rpg, 2.8apg, FGP: 51.9%, 3PT: 32.4%, FT: 77.0%. In 2009-2010, he played with the EWE Baskets Oldenburg playing Euroleague: 4 games: 8.3ppg, 1.5rpg, 1.8apg; German League: 6 games: 9.3ppg, 1.3apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 89.7%. Last season with the Dragons, he played EuroChallenge Qualifying Round: 1 game: 7pts, 5reb, 3ast, 3steals; German League: 41 games: 11.5ppg, 2.4rpg, 3.2apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 52.2%, 3PT: 34.9%, FT: 77.2% He sat down and spoke with Eurobasket before game one against FC Bayern Munich.

How excited are you about playing against FC Bayern Munich in the playoffs. Sending Germanys team into summer vacation has to be enough of an motivation.

Our team is ready to start the playoffs and we're going to take one game at a time and not look too far ahead. I think everyone has extra motivation once the playoffs begin.

The Artland Dragons ended the regular season with a four game winning streak. How ready is the team for the Beko BBL playoffs?

In the last four games of the season, I think we improved our defense and executed our offense well.

The season has been long with extra Eurochallenge games and injuries, but how fit is the team currently physically and mentally?

This season we've played a lot of games and at times it was difficult with injuries. But I think we're ready physically and mentally for a tough playoffs series.

The Artland Dragons split the season series with FC Bayern Munich 1-1. Who can forget the 86-83 OT win at the start of the season where David Holston was dropping threes like there was no tomorrow, but the team was very much different in the second game where they easily beat you. What will the Dragons have to do better this time around?

We will have to defend better and do a better job of rebounding the basketball.

Jared Homan and Chevon Troutman have become a very dangerous consistent duo. Will it be key in slowing them down in the best of five series?

We have to keep them out of their comfort zone. We can't let them get easy baskets and easy second chance points.

AMARE STOUDEMIRE injured his hand after a post game loss tirade. Are you surprised that this could happen to a player like him?

No. Because sometimes players get caught up in emotion and just act. It could have happened to anyone.

With Rajon Rondo missing a game and the team down 1-0, will the Boston Celtics soon have summer vacation?

I think Boston will bounce back and win the series, because they are a veteran team with a lot of experience.

NBA commissioner David Stern suggests that this summers London Games may be the last Olympics that will see the league's top stars. He has hinted future teams may only have under 23 players. Is this something that will hurt or benefit?

The talent will still be there, but the players will obviously have less experience and this may hurt.

Thanks Bryan for the chat.





ProA Round 1 of Finals - by Eurobasket News

Kirchheim - MBC 88-82 (1-0)

The hosts trailed by 1 point at the halftime before their 25-16 charge in the third quarter, which allowed them to win the game. Kirchheim Knights made 25-of-32 free shots (78.1 percent) during the game. Kirchheim Knights outrebounded Mitteldeutscher BC 39-28 including 17 on the offensive glass. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 24 assists. 24 personal fouls committed by Mitteldeutscher BC helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The game was dominated by American players. Guard Ahmad Smith (194-84, college: St.Bonaventure) fired 6 points, 12 rebounds and 18 assists for the winners. Forward Devin Uskoski (198-85, college: Rocky Mountain) chipped in 28 points and 5 rebounds. Jordan Collins (208-82, college: N.Carolina St., agency: Strategic Sports) produced 24 points and 6 rebounds and guard Robert Holcomb Faye (185-84, college: Radford) added 11 points and 7 assists respectively for lost side. Five Mitteldeutscher BC players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Kirchheim: D.Uskoski 28+5reb+1ast, C.Brooks 13+2reb+2ast, S.Adeberg 12+2reb+2ast, R.Tomasevic 10+1reb, D.Schneider 9+8reb, B.Griffin 8+6reb
MBC: J.Collins 24+6reb, S.Wachalski 13+5reb+2ast, L.Hinnant 11+4reb+3ast, R.Holcomb Faye 11+3reb+7ast, S.Leutloff 10+3reb, A.Reid 6+4reb+2ast
gschID: 175788



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


Falco-Szova and Szolnoki Olaj take 1-0 lead in the Semis - by Eurobasket News

First games of the Playoff Semifinals were played last night. Falco-Szova and Szolnoki Olaj outgunned their rivals for 1-0 lead in the series. The format is best-of-five and second games are scheduled for Monday,
Falco-Szova handed 76-71 loss to Kormend. Djordje Pantelic (204-F-84) and Chad Timberlake (194-G-84, college: Fair Dickinson) led the hosts with 22 and 21 points respectively. Darian Townes (208-F/C-84) and Rashad Bell (201-F-82, college: Boston U.) responded with 25 and 21 points for the guests. Quarters: 22-22, 22-20, 14-11, 18-18.
Szolnoki Olaj cruised past Albacomp on the road 71-79. Visitors shined in Q2 and Q3, what was enough for the victory and 1-0 lead in the series. Obie Trotter (186-PG-84, agency: Court Side, college: Alabama A&M) stepped up for Szolnoki with 20 points and 12 rebounds. Brandon Gay (203-F-82, agency: Edge Sports, college: San Diego) followed him with 14 pts and also 12 rebs. In defeat, Balazs Simon (188-PG-80, agency: Court Side) collected 24 points and 9 assists. Quarters: 22-18, 15-25, 19-21, 15-15.
Szolnoki and Kormend will host Game Two.



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

Standings

IBL Standings
Branding
 1. Yamhill H. 0-0 
 2. Jersey G-F 0-1 
 3. Orlando V. 0-3 
Continental
 1. Vancouver V. 3-0 
 2. Bellingham S. 3-1 
 3. Olympia R. 1-4 
International
 1. Edmonton E. 3-0 
 2. Portland C. 1-2 
 3. Nippon T. 0-0 
Travel Team
 1. S. Soldiers 1-1 
 2. Los Angeles 0-0 
 3. W.Coast H. 0-0 

Regular Season: Round 3

May. 1: Olympia R. - Vancouver V. 99-114
May. 4: Edmonton E. - Jersey G-F 98-90
May. 4: Orlando V. - Bellingham S. 125-135
May. 4: Vancouver V. - Olympia R. 117-116
May. 3: Olympia R. - Portland C. 113-123

Regular Season: Round 5

May. 11: Bellingham S. - Vancouver V.
May. 11: Olympia R. - S. Soldiers
May. 11: Jersey G-F - Orlando V.


Duty's career night propels Slam in Orlando - by Eurobasket News

A big third quarter from forward Michael Duty (6'6''-F, college: W.Washington) helped spark the Bellingham Slam in a come-from-behind 135-125 win over the Orlando Venom in an International Basketball League contest at the Winter Park Community Center on Friday.

Duty scored 15 points in the third quarter as the Slam turned a 56-52 halftime deficit into a 94-86 lead going into the fourth quarter. He finished with a team-high 27 points, including an impressive 13-for-13 mark from the free throw line.

Despite a long day of travel as the team arrived in Orlando on Thursday evening, the team didn't show any signs of fatigue early in the game, playing the Venom tough in a first half that featured ten lead changes.

The Slam came out of the halftime break with increased focus, and used a 12-2 run in the middle stages of the third quarter to build up a 13-point lead, at 89-76.

But the Venom answered with a run of their own in the fourth quarter to bring the margin back down to five, at 106-101, with 7:33 left. The Slam then responded with some clutch shooting of their own to weather the storm, and got the lead up to 15, at 123-108, on a driving lay-in by guard Drew Ready with 3:27 left. Ready finished the game by scoring six of the game's final ten points to secure the victory.

The win for the Slam (3-1) was their first in the Eastern time zone since a victory over the Pittsburgh Xplosion on March 16, 2006 when the team was a member of the American Basketball Association.

Duty's 27-point night was closely followed by Ready and guard Paul Hafford, who both finished with 24. The totals by Duty and Ready were career highs for the former Western Washington products. Center Blake Poole (6'5''-C-88, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: St.Martin's) finished with another double-double of 17 points and 14 rebounds.

The outcome spoiled several solid individual efforts for Orlando (0-3), which received 33 and 32 points, respectively, from guards Miles Taylor (6'4''-G/F-88, college: Campbell) and D.J. Ferguson (6'1''-G, college: Flagler). Ferguson also finished with a game-high 11 assists.

The two teams play again in a rematch on Saturday, with a 7 p.m. Tip-off set at the Winter Park Community Center.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com



Volcanoes get close win over Olympia - by Eurobasket News

Dominique Watson (5'10''-G) scored 31 points, and Calvin Hampton (6'10''-F/C-86, college: Oregon St.) had 15 points and 12 rebounds as the Vancouver Volcanoes improved to 3-0 with a 117-116 International Basketball League win over the Olympia Reign on Friday at the OConnell Center.

Olympia (1-4) led by as much as 13 points at 89-76 in the third quarter.

There were 12 lead changes and six ties in the game.

Antwan Williams (6'3''-G, college: Puget Sound) scored 18 points, Andre Murray (6'2''-G-87, college: Portland St.) 17 and Alexander Hartman (6'7''-F-85, college: Concordia, OR) 12 for the Volcanoes.

Olympia was led by Giovonne Woods (6'3''-G-86, college: Cent.Washington) 31 points and 10 assists.

Vancouver next plays the Portland Chinook at 7 p.m. today at the 212 Sports Complex in Clackamas.



VANCOUVER VOLCANOES 117, OLYMPIA REIGN 116

OLYMPIA (1-4) Wright 2-4 1-2 5, Whittaker 3-13 1-2 10, Matthews 0-3 1-2 1, Moore 6-9 0-0 15, Ward 7-17 3-4 19, Woods 10-17 7-11 31, Ohanson 5-10 5-9 15, Weakley 3-7 0-1 9, Manning 1-3 0-0 2, Jones 2-4 5-6 9. Totals 39-87 23-37 116.

VANCOUVER (3-0) Lechtenberg 0-1 0-0 0, Williams 6-15 3-4 18, Hartman 3-13 5-8 12, Murray 8-21 1-2 17, Tiefenthaler 6-8 0-1 15, Hampton 7-10 1-3, Watson 11-20 7-8 31, West 1-1 0-2 2, Gweth 1-4 2-2 5, Sweeney 1-1 0-0 2, Christie 0-0 0-0 0, Moore 0-0 0-0 0. Totals 44-94 19-30 117.

Olympia 20 29 42 25 - 116

Vancouver 22 30 30 35 - 117

Courtesy of www.columbian.com



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

Standings - Lega 2

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

Regular Season: Round 30

May. 5: Givova Scafati - Enel Brindisi 95-97
May. 5: Biancoblu BO - Sigma Barcel. 93-90
May. 5: Aget Imola - S.Antimo 81-88
May. 5: MarcoPoloShop - Trenkwalder 81-68
May. 5: Prima Veroli - Fileni BPA 76-73
May. 5: Assi Ostuni - Centrale Latte 75-72
May. 5: Morpho Basket - Tezenis Verona 75-71


Stats Leaders - Lega2

Points Per Game
 Troy BELL
  S.Antimo
  (186-PG-80)
  Avg: 23.2
 1. Bell, S.Antimo23.2 
 2. Hardy, Giorgio22.6 
 3. Marigney, Givova S.21.2 
 4. Freeman, MarcoPol.20.9 
 5. Maggioli, Fileni B.18.5 
 6. Voskuil, Morpho B.18.3 
 7. Robinson, Trenkwal.18.0 
 8. McConnell, Fileni17.6 
 9. Taylor, Trenkwal.17.1 
 10. Brooks, Fileni BPA17.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 James THOMAS
  Givova S.
  (203-F/C-80)
  Avg: 11.8
 1. Thomas, Givova S.11.8 
 2. Anderson, Morpho B.8.3 
 3. Jones, Giorgio8.0 
 4. Borovnjak, Enel B.7.7 
 5. Maggioli, Fileni B.7.7 
 6. Baldassarre, Bianc.7.5 
 7. Waleskowski, Tezen.7.4 
 8. Diliegro, Assi Ost.7.0 
 9. Brkic, Prima Veroli6.9 
 10. Brooks, Fileni BPA6.9 
Assists Per Game
 Mike GREEN
  Sigma B.
  (185-PG-85)
  Avg: 5.2
 1. Green, Sigma B.5.2 
 2. Johnson, Assi O.4.6 
 3. Porta, Tezenis4.4 
 4. Kelley, Biancobl.3.5 
 5. Renfroe, Enel B.3.4 
 6. Whiting, Aget Imola3.4 
 7. McConnell, Fileni3.4 
 8. Marigney, Givova S.3.1 
 9. Goldwire, Centra.3.0 
 10. Blizzard, Biancob.3.0 
Steals Per Game
 Mario WEST
  Tezenis .
  (195-G-84)
  Avg: 3.1
 1. West, Tezenis3.1 
 2. Thompson, Centra.2.8 
 3. Radulovic, Givova2.7 
 4. Robinson, Trenkwal.2.4 
 5. Green, Sigma B.2.4 
 6. Baldassarre, Bianc.2.4 
 7. Porta, Tezenis2.3 
 8. Marigney, Givova S.2.3 
 9. Goldwire, Centra.2.2 
 10. Ghersetti, Centra.2.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Riccardo CERVI
  Trenkwalder
  (215-C-91)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Cervi, Trenkwalder2.2 
 2. Maggioli, Fileni B.1.7 
 3. Thomas, Givova S.0.9 
 4. Radulovic, Givova0.8 
 5. Brkic, Prima Veroli0.8 
 6. Da Ros, Sigma B.0.7 
 7. Chiacig, Trenkwald.0.7 
 8. Zerini, Enel Brind.0.6 
 9. Kotti, Aget Imola0.6 
 10. DiGiuliomari., Te.0.5 


Jameson Curry debuted for Sigma Barcellona - by Eurobasket Center

Jameson Curry debuted for Sigma Barcellona with 13 points. The 26-year old American guard Jameson Curry was recently added to the roster.
In his first game he scored 13 points and added 5 assists. Despite his good performance his new team lost to Biancoblu BO 90-93. Curry played most recently at Springfield Armor (D-League) in the U.S. While playing 43 games for Springfield A. this season he averaged 17.8ppg, 4.3rpg, 6.3apg and 1.9spg. Curry helped them to win the championship title. He was selected also to the all-star game. A very spectacular season in his career as he was voted to USBasket.com All-D-League Honorable Mention. Curry is a very experienced player. Curry graduated Oklahoma State University in 2007 and it will be his fifth season in pro basketball.
The deal is meant till the end of season. The guard started the season in D-League. He played for the Springfield Armor. Previously Jameson Curry had stints in Venezuela, Cyprus, France, D-League and NBA. The guard participated at D-League All-Star Game in 2012.



Jameson Curry debuted for Sigma Barcellona - by Eurobasket News

Jameson Curry (193-G-86, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Oklahoma St.) debuted for Sigma Barcellona with 13 points. The 26-year old American guard Jameson Curry was recently added to the roster.
In his first game he scored 13 points and added 5 assists. Despite his good performance his new team lost to Biancoblu BO 90-93. Curry played most recently at Springfield Armor (D-League) in the U.S. While playing 43 games for Springfield A. this season he averaged 17.8ppg, 4.3rpg, 6.3apg and 1.9spg. Curry helped them to win the championship title. He was selected also to the all-star game. A very spectacular season in his career as he was voted to USBasket.com All-D-League Honorable Mention. Curry is a very experienced player. Curry graduated Oklahoma State University in 2007 and it will be his fifth season in pro basketball.
The deal is meant till the end of season. The guard started the season in D-League. He played for the Springfield Armor. Previously Jameson Curry had stints in Venezuela, Cyprus, France, D-League and NBA. The guard participated at D-League All-Star Game in 2012.



Serie D Regionale Campania - Round 30 Results - by Crazy



D REGIONALE CAMPANIA - ROUND 30 RESULTS

Group A:
Angri - Minucci: 49-94
Aics Caserta - V.Avellino: 44-55
Cestistica Ischia - Cus Napoli: 58-60
Folgore Nocera - Koin: 74-50
San Nicola - Nola: 89-66
Libert - Virtus Pozzuoli: 49-71

Standings: San Nicola 50, Folgore Nocera 46, Minucci 46, Virtus Avellino 30, Cittadella 30, Cus Caserta 26, Nola 26, Cus Napoli 24, Virtus Pozzuoli 22, Koin 20, Angri 16, Ischia 12, Libert 10, Aics 6.

Scoring Leaders: Valerio Tranfa (San Nicola) 18.4 points per game; W.Esposito (Cittadella) 17.2 ppg; Cannavacciuolo (Angri) 17.0 ppg; Davini (Minucci) 16.3 ppg; Scialli (Koin) 16.1 ppg.

Group B:
Bellizzi - Portici 2000: 72-59
Cestistica Napoli - LBL Caserta: 70-88
Forio - Abatese: 58-97
Volla - Piscinola: 48-69
Casapulla - Sporting Portici: 62-66
Pro Cangiani - Ercolano: 46-59

Standings: Volla 46, Bellizzi 44, Piscinola 44, Abatese 40, Portici 2000 36, Sporting Portici 32, Casapulla 30, Casalnuovo 30, LBL 24, Sarno 24, Ercolano 22, Secondigliano 20, Cestistica Napoli 14, Pro Cangiani 10, Forio 4.

Scoring Leaders: Francesco Minervini (S.Portici) 21.6 points per game; S.De Vita (Abatese) 18.8 ppg; Costagliola (Volla) 17.7 ppg; Del Gaudio (LBL) 17.5 ppg; Olivetti (Casapulla) 17.2 ppg.



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


National basketball team opens camp in Serbia - by Eurobasket News

Cote DIvoires mens basket national team has gone on an 11-day training camp in Serbia ahead of the Afro-basket tournament which they will organize next August.

The delegation took off last Sunday and will return Wednesday 9.The team will play five friendlies against Serbian professional clubs during their training camp, the technical director Abderezak Belkadi said. He added that these encounters will permit his boys prepare properly thereby increasing their chances of winning the African title.

A new sports complex of 8000 seats, which will host some of the matches of the Afro-basket, is under construction in Abidjan. The other matches of the tournament will be played in the sports complex of Treichville, still in Abidjan.
Courtesy of: StarAfrica.com



Day 13 results OF N1 mens basketball champs - by Eurobasket News

Matchday 13 encounters of the Ivory Coast N1-mens basketball championship were played over the weekend.
The following results were recorded;Sw Sport Vs Eby: 68-71, JCA Vs Africa: 68-73, SOA Vs ABC: 60-70, TBC Ermess Vs IVESTP: 69-71 and Phoenix Vs Gnration: 45-49.
Courtesy of: StarAfrica.com



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


Orthodox win again, force decider - by Eurobasket News

Orthodox - ASU 89:82

Orthodox registered the second straight win in the championship series. They overcame ASU to level things at 2-2. The decisive fifth game is scheduled on Monday.
Orthodox strongly entered the game. They dominated throughout the first half posting a 45:40 lead twenty minutes into the game. Orthodox remained in charge throughout the third quarter. They piled up a 68:62 advantage with ten minutes remaining. Orthodox kept ASU at distance in the final quarter and rallied to a vital win at the end. Zaid Abbas (203-F-83) scored 32 points for Orthodox. Osama Daghles (198-G-79, college: Midwestern St.) contributed 25 points for the winners. Abdallah AbuQoura (205-F-84) had 27 points for ASU. Mohammad Hadrab (203-F-84) netted 15 points in the loss.

Orthodox: Zaid Abbas 32, Osama Daghles 25
ASU: Abdallah AbuQoura 27, Mohammad Hadrab 15



*****************************************************
  JUCO   


State Fair all Region performer Alfonzo "The Present: Houston committs to North Carolina Central - by Vance Marbury

Alfonzo 'The Present' Houston. Ht:6'3' Small Forward Class:2012 State Fair C.C. Sedalia Missouri (Junior College), Commits to North Carolina Central, Alfonzo also had strong interest from IFPW, Wright State, and Eastern Kentucky.

Alfonzo Played his High School Basketball at Cleveland Heights, High School in Cleveland Ohio. As a senior in High School Alfonzo averaged: 19 points, 6 rebounds, and 7 assists.

Houston, was selected to the all-Region 16 team, averaged a team-high 17.9 points in 27 games last season. He also averaged 3.5 rebounds, 2.9 assists and 1.3 steals. As a freshman Alfonzo averaged 12.8 points 3.3 rebounds 2.1 assists 0.9 steals.

'Houston has a lot of skills that will translate well to the next level, State Fair coach Kevin Thomas stated. He was always a very good scorer for us. He really thrived in an up-and-down game and I think thats how North Carolina Central plays. He should be able to help them immediately.



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


Matteo Boniciolli will guide Kazakhstan National Team - by Eurobasket News

Matteo Boniciolli (agency: Beo Basket ) will take over Kazakhstan National Team. The Italian specialist is ready to accept the National basketball federation proposal. Matteo Boniciolli (agency: Beo Basket ) is expected to sign a two-year deal with the federation. The Italian coach is a well-known specialist in Kazakhstan. He took over BC Astana at the start of the current season. He led the team to both Kazakh Cup and Championship titles. Matteo Boniciolli (agency: Beo Basket ) also signed a two-year extension with BC Astana. Asia-Basket.com named the specialist All-Kazakhstan League Coach of the Year in 2012. Previously Matteo Boniciolli (agency: Beo Basket ) worked with Italian U16 National Team. He also had a stint as assistant coach with Italian National Team in 1996/2001.
Jerry Johnson (182-PG-82, agency: Beo Basket, college: Rider) is reportedly close to receiving Kazakhstan passport. If so the guard will join the National Team. Jerry Johnson is currently playing for BC Astana. The point guard averaged 11.3 points, 1.8 rebounds and 1.3 steals per game in Kazakh League. In VTB League Jerry Johnson tallied 14.2 points, 3.8 assists and 2.4 rebounds.



*****************************************************
  KENYA   


Nairobi Are Through to Cities' Basketball - by Eurobasket News

Kampala Champions Nairobi yesterday stormed into the finals of the East and Central Africa Inter Cities basketball championship after beating Moyo of Tanzania 76-43 at the YMCA Wandegeya courts.

The winners scored the opener through captain Hilda Indasi to lead 38-14 at the break. Top scoring for Nairobi was Samba Mjomba with 9 and Linda Al;ando with 8.

Meanwhile forward Emma Nyakweba is doubtful for the rest of the games following an ankle injury she suffered two days ago. Nyakweba, also a national team player, limped out injured in the game against Kampala and has continued to hobble despite getting medical attention. Nairobi won that tie 62-45 before beating Moyo 51-31 on Thursday. Their opener was a 51-40 win over Mukono.

Coach Ben Oluoch yesterday said the star player did not train and she remains highly doubtful for the finals. 'Emma did not train this morning. She is still not OK but I have asked her to warm up with the team .

Thursday's results: Nairobi ( Ke ) 51 Moyo ( Tz ) 31, Kampala ( Ug ) 74 Mukono ( Ug ) 58, In the men category- Mombasa ( Ke ) 74 Mukono ( Ug ) 72, Kampala ( Ug ) 74 Mogadishu ( Som ) 56. The men's semis pits Mombasa ( Ke ) Vs Juba ( Su ) and Kampala ( Ug ) Vs Mukono ( Ug ).
Courtesy of: The Star (Nairobi)



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


Eurobasket.com All-Latvian LBL D2 Awards 2011-12 - by Eurobasket

Eurobasket.com All-Latvian LBL D2 1st Team 2012
#s#
Ilmars Bergmanis
Bergmanis
Nauris Miezis
Miezis
Salvis Metra
Metra
Michal Hlebowicki
Hlebowicki
Janis Licitis
Licitis
#e#5

Player of the Year: Ilmars Bergmanis (184-PG-81) of Barons kvartals
Guard of the Year: Ilmars Bergmanis (184-PG-81) of Barons kvartals
Forward of the Year: Salvis Metra (195-G/F-84) of Barons kvartals
Center of the Year: Janis Licitis (199-C-84) of Saldus
Defensive Player of the Year: Nauris Miezis (192-G-91) of BK VEF
Coach of the Year: Martins Gulbis of Barons kvartals

1st Team
PG: Ilmars Bergmanis (184-81) of Barons kvartals
G: Nauris Miezis (192-91) of BK VEF
G/F: Salvis Metra (195-84) of Barons kvartals
F: Michal Hlebowicki (204-76) of Barons kvartals
C: Janis Licitis (199-84) of Saldus

2nd Team
G: Rihards Strauts (195-91) of Ogres
G: Edgars Cimars (183-84) of Livani
F/G: Janis Timma (201-92) of Liepaja
G/F: Klavs Strazdins (193-93) of DSN
F: Gundars Rauza (192-79) of Gulbene

Honorable Mention
Guntars Strakis (188-G-90) of BK VEF
Arturs Lusis (197-F-93) of BS Riga
Valters Selders (180-G-93) of Gulbene
Nauris Maskalans (199-F-83) of Livani
Guntis Sipolins (206-F/C-93) of Ogres



*****************************************************
  LBQ   

Standings

LBQ Standings
 1. Revolution 3-0 
 2. Seigneurs 3-0 
 3. Monteregie 1-2 
 4. Jaguars 1-2 
 5. Page-Dynamo 0-4 

Regular Season: Round 4

May. 4: Revolution - Page-Dynamo 93-73
May. 4: Seigneurs - Monteregie 79-71

Regular Season: Round 5

May. 6: Page-Dynamo - Jaguars
May. 6: Monteregie - Revolution



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


Champville and Anibal to meet in the Finals of the Lebanese League - by Asia-Basket Lebanon

Anibal will play the finals of the Lebanese League for the first time ever in the history of the club , this place in the final came after winning the semi final series against Riyadi on the score of 3-2 . The two teams were tied 2-2 and they headed to game 5 , there was too much problems in the past 2 days so the game was postponed for 2 times ,the LBF decided to remove the sanction imposed on Riyadis player Ismail Ahmad , the game 5 didnt saw any action due that Riyadi Fans were not allowed to attend the game , this situation made Riyadi Administration take a very daring decision which was not to participate in the game and to lose it at the score of 20-0 due to forfeiting the game.

The Finals will join Champville to Anibal , Champville will have the home court advantage , the two teams met 4 times in the season , Champville have a 3-1 record . These 2 teams will compete this season and the winner will create a History , a new Champion of Lebanon in the new era of the Lebanese Basketball since 1993 other than Sagesse and Riyadi who won all the titles .

The Last 2 games that joined the 2 teams saw Anibal winning in Dik El Mehdi and Champville wining in Zahle, Champville have too much offensive guns to use in the Finals , the offensive skills of Fadi Khatib by creating the mismatches everywhere on the court , the big inside presence of Sam Hoskin , the big talent of Marcus Haislip and the back up of Elie Stephan and Carl Sarkis. As for Anibal they will rely on their team work and especially on their defense which proved the efficiency in the series against Riyadi and on their offensive guns Jay Youngblood , Leroy Hurd , Ghaleb Reda and Mazen Mneimneh. In their last encounter Champville managed to win the game with an overtime.



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

  LIGA AMERICAS   

Standings

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


Latinbasket.com All-Liga Americas Awards 2012 - by Eurobasket

Latinbasket.com All-Liga Americas 1st Team 2012
#s#
Gregory Lewis
Lewis
Larry Taylor
Taylor
LeRoy Hickerson
Hickerson
Tony Washam
Washam
Juan Gutierrez
Gutierrez
#e#5

Player of the Year: Gregory Lewis (198-F-78) of Atenas Argentina
Guard of the Year: LeRoy Hickerson (196-G-82) of Pioneros Mexico
Forward of the Year: Gregory Lewis (198-F-78) of Atenas Argentina
Center of the Year: Juan Gutierrez (205-F/C-83) of Granada Spain
Coach of the Year: Josep Claros of Pioneros Mexico

1st Team
G: Larry Taylor (185-80) of Mazatlan Mexico
G: LeRoy Hickerson (196-82) of Pioneros Mexico
F: Gregory Lewis (198-78) of Atenas Argentina
F: Tony Washam (200-82) of Elitzur Netanya Israel
F/C: Juan Gutierrez (205-83) of Granada Spain

2nd Team
G: Martin Osimani (194-81) of Soles Mexico
G: Joe Smith (193-77) of Acea Roma Italy
F: Guilherme Giovannoni (202-80) of CS Bologna Italy
F/G: Arthur Silva (199-82) of Unitri Brazil
F/C: Robert Hornsby (196-82) of Huracanes Mexico

3rd Team
G: Julio Mazzaro (190-79) of Quimsa Argentina
G: Larry Ayuso (190-77) of Santurce Puerto Rico
G/F: Jovan Harris (191-81) of Pioneros Mexico
F: Ike Ofoegbu (205-85) of Toros Mexico
C: Douglas Nunes (201-87) of Coruna Spain

Honorable Mention
Danilo Pinnock (196-G-83) of B.C. Habikaa Israel
Carl Elliott (193-G-83) of Cent.Apure Venezuela
Ariel Pau (186-G-84) of San Mart.C. Argentina
Christopher Hernandez (188-PG-83) of Halc.Xalapa Mexico
Alex Ribeiro (191-G-80) of Pinheiros/Sky Brazil
Ike Ofoegbu (205-F-85) of Toros Mexico



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

Stats Leaders - LKL

Points Per Game
 Laurynas MIKALAUSKAS
  Neptu.
  (205-F-85)
  Avg: 18
 1. Mikalauskas, Neptu.18.0 
 2. Mazeika, Neptunas15.2 
 3. Hughes, Pieno Z.15.0 
 4. Valanciunas, Lietu.14.8 
 5. Johnson, Naglis P.14.6 
 6. Cepukaitis, Lietka.13.9 
 7. Long, Siauliai13.7 
 8. Urbonas, Juventus13.3 
 9. Seibutis, Lietuv.13.0 
 10. Reminas, Naglis P.13.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Dane JOHNSON
  Naglis P.
  (208-C-86)
  Avg: 10.3
 1. Johnson, Naglis P.10.3 
 2. Valanciunas, Lietu.7.7 
 3. Mikalauskas, Neptu.7.1 
 4. McClure, Kedainiai7.0 
 5. Cepukaitis, Lietka.6.5 
 6. Petrukonis, Juven.6.4 
 7. Valeika, Neptunas6.0 
 8. Butkevicius, Rudup.6.0 
 9. Katelynas, Lietuv.5.9 
 10. Adomaitis, Kedain.5.8 
Assists Per Game
 Evaldas DAINYS
  Neptunas
  (180-PG-82)
  Avg: 5.3
 1. Dainys, Neptunas5.3 
 2. Kalnietis, Zalgiris5.1 
 3. Rice, Lietuvos.4.3 
 4. Kadziulis, Rudupis4.0 
 5. Peciukeviciu., Sak.4.0 
 6. Popovic, Zalgiris3.7 
 7. Broadus, Siauliai3.7 
 8. Maceina, Juventus3.6 
 9. Ezerskis, Lietkabe.3.5 
 10. Samenas, Sakalai3.4 
Steals Per Game
 Cam LONG
  Siauliai
  (193-G-88)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Long, Siauliai2.1 
 2. Hughes, Pieno Z.2.1 
 3. Vasiliauskas, Liet.1.6 
 4. Salenga, Zalgiris1.6 
 5. Seibutis, Lietuv.1.6 
 6. Broadus, Siauliai1.6 
 7. Ginevicius, Kedain.1.6 
 8. Roberts, Lietuvos.1.5 
 9. Dainys, Neptunas1.5 
 10. Juskevicius, Rudu.1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Jonas VALANCIUNAS
  Lietuv.
  (210-C-92)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Valanciunas, Lietu.1.9 
 2. Johnson, Naglis P.1.8 
 3. Petrukonis, Juven.1.2 
 4. Staniulis, Lietkab.1.0 
 5. Samardziski, Lietu.0.9 
 6. Cepukaitis, Lietka.0.9 
 7. Morgan, Pieno Z.0.9 
 8. McClure, Kedainiai0.9 
 9. Zelionis, Rudupis0.8 
 10. Gumeniuk, Juvent.0.7 



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

Standings

Diekirch Standings
1-6 places
 1. T71 24-4 
 2. Sparta 22-6 
 3. Musel Pikes 15-13 
 4. Residence 13-15 
 5. Amicale 13-15 
 6. Etzella 12-16 
7-10 places
 1. Basket Esch 15-9 
 2. Soleuvre 12-12 
 3. BBC Nitia 3-21 
 4. Heffingen 3-21 
Stage One Standings

Second Stage: Round 10

May. 5: Sparta - Etzella 97-72
May. 5: Amicale - Musel Pikes 68-73
May. 5: Residence - T71 67-70



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


ASEAN League: Dragons fire past Slammer - by Eurobasket News

Westports Dragons - Thailand Slammers 94:79

Westports Dragons earned the 11th win in the season and moved to the third position in the ladder. They toppled the defending champions Thailand Slammers at home court tonight. Tiras Wade (200-F-81, agency: Interperformances, college: La-Lafayette) notched 33 points to lead the effort.
The Dragons built a 23:16 lead ten minutes into the game. The hosts stretched the margin in the second quarter. The Malaysian team extended the gap to as many as 18 points at the interval 50:32. The Slammers however revived the intrigue in the third term. They outscored the hosts 23:11 to cut the distance. But Wesports Dragons unleashed 33 points in the final frame to seal the victory. Patrick Cabahug (186-G) netted 22 points, while Brian Williams (208-C-87, agency: VVG Sports, college: Tennessee) posted 16 points and 11 rebounds in the win. Calvin Williams (206-F-87, college: SE Missouri St.) replied with 34 points and 13 rebounds for the Slammers. Christopher Garnett (211-C-80, college: Indiana SE) netted 16 points in the loss.

Westports Dragons: Tiras Wade 33, Patrick Cabahug 22, Brian Williams 16+11 boards
Thailand Slammers: Calvin Williams 34+13 boards, Christopher Garnett 16



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

Standings - CIBACOPA

CIBACOPA Standings
 1. Hermosillo 25-4 
 2. Guaymas 23-6 
 3. Tijuana 19-10 
 4. Cananea 15-14 
 5. Guasave 15-14 
 6. Los Mochis 14-15 
 7. Nogales 13-16 
 8. Culiacan 10-19 
 9. Navolato 9-20 
 10. Tepic 2-27 

Regular Season: Round 29

May. 4: Nogales - Los Mochis 99-107
May. 4: Hermosillo - Culiacan 96-66
May. 4: Tijuana - Guasave 78-84
May. 4: Cananea - Tepic 109-88
May. 4: Guaymas - Navolato 101-89

Regular Season: Round 31

May. 8: Tepic - Nogales
May. 8: Los Mochis - Tijuana
May. 8: Hermosillo - Guaymas
May. 8: Guasave - Cananea
May. 8: Culiacan - Navolato


CIBACOPA Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Devon PEARSON
  Los M.
  (198-F-84)
  Avg: 26.1
 1. Pearson, Los M.26.1 
 2. Scott, Los Mochis24.5 
 3. Reese, Tepic23.9 
 4. Robinson, Culiacan22.9 
 5. McCullough, Nogales22.8 
 6. Thomas, Cananea21.5 
 7. Selleaze, Navolato21.0 
 8. Carter, Guasave20.9 
 9. Wiley, Los Mochis19.8 
 10. Young, Tepic19.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Devon PEARSON
  Los M.
  (198-F-84)
  Avg: 11.5
 1. Pearson, Los M.11.5 
 2. Riley, Tepic11.1 
 3. Scott, Los Mochis9.6 
 4. Sanders-F., Nogales8.9 
 5. Selleaze, Navolato8.8 
 6. Robinson, Culiacan7.8 
 7. Habel, Guaymas7.6 
 8. Lopez, Hermosillo7.5 
 9. Zamora, Culiacan7.5 
 10. Morrison, Tijuana7.1 
Assists Per Game
 Tayloe TAYLOR
  Los Mochis
  (191-G-86)
  Avg: 5.8
 1. Taylor, Los Mochis5.8 
 2. Monreal, Hermosillo5.5 
 3. Nungaray, Guaymas5.4 
 4. Harris, Cananea4.5 
 5. Pulido, Culiacan4.1 
 6. Riley, Tepic3.8 
 7. McSwine, Navolato3.6 
 8. Reatiga, Navolato3.3 
 9. Heredia, Nogales3.3 
 10. Quintero, Tijuana3.2 
Steals Per Game
 Deangelo RILEY
  Tepic
  (205-C-)
  Avg: 1.7
 1. Riley, Tepic1.7 
 2. Gibson, Navolato1.7 
 3. Thomas, Cananea1.5 
 4. Buelna, Guasave1.5 
 5. Giron, Guasave1.4 
 6. Carter, Guasave1.3 
 7. Monreal, Hermosillo1.3 
 8. Reatiga, Navolato1.3 
 9. Pulido, Culiacan1.3 
 10. Toussaint, Los M.1.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Deangelo RILEY
  Tepic
  (205-C-)
  Avg: 3.6
 1. Riley, Tepic3.6 
 2. Zamora, Culiacan1.3 
 3. Habel, Guaymas1.3 
 4. Young, Tepic1.1 
 5. Wiley, Los Mochis1.0 
 6. Robinson, Culiacan1.0 
 7. McCullough, Nogales0.9 
 8. Scott, Los Mochis0.6 
 9. Verdugo, Navolato0.6 
 10. Johnson, Guaymas0.6 


Scott number one in Mexico for round 29 - by Eurobasket News

American forward Seth Scott (208-F-81) had a great game in the last round for Los Mochis, receiving a Latinbasket.com Player of the Week award for round 29.
The 30-year old player had a double-double of 35 points and 15 rebounds, while his team beat Nogales (#7, 13-16) 107-99. Los Mochis maintains the 6th position in Mexican CIBACOPA. Los Mochis is a typical solid league team placed somewhere in the middle or a little bit lower in the standings. They need more victories to improve their 14-15 record. In the team's last game Scott had a remarkable 66.7% from 2-point range. He just recently signed at Los Mochis, being already a very valuable addition to the team. Seth Scott averages this season 23.7ppg and 9.2rpg.

The second best player in last round's games was -year old American Deangelo Riley (205-C) of Tepic. Riley had a very good evening with a double-double of 30 points and 10 rebounds. Bad luck as Tepic lost that game 88-109 to the higher-ranked Cananea (#4, 15-14). Tepic are still at the very bottom. 27 lost games are too many comparing to just two victories Tepic managed to get this year. Riley is one of the most experienced players at Tepic and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 18.3ppg (#9). His other stats are also decent: 11.1rpg and 3.8apg.

Third on the list of top players last round was another Los Mochis' star - American guard William Funn (188-G-82). Funn showcased his all-around game by recording 21 points, eight rebounds and nine assists in the last round. He was another key player of Los Mochis, helping his team with a 107-99 win against slightly lower-ranked Nogales (#7, 13-16). The chances of Los Mochis ranking at the top of the league, however are very questionable as they have already lost 15 games, recording just fourteen victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Funn could help Los Mochis to bring them higher in the standings. Funn has a very solid season. In 2 games in Mexico he scored 12.5ppg. Funn attended one of camps at Eurobasket Summer League on his way to pro basketball.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Russell Carter (196-G-85) of Guasave - 34 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists
5. Myron Allen (182-PG-79) of Guaymas - 26 points, 4 rebounds and 8 assists
6. Cheyenne Moore (198-G-84) of Cananea - 30 points and 6 rebounds
7. Marcus Morrison (198-G/F-84) of Tijuana - 26 points, 10 rebounds and 2 assists
8. Jerome Habel (208-F-85) of Guaymas - 19 points and 13 rebounds
9. Devon Pearson (198-F-84) of Los Mochis - 34 points, 9 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Cyrus Tate (203-F/C-85) of Tijuana - 18 points, 13 rebounds and 3 assists

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



CIBACOPA Round 29 of Regular Season - by Eurobasket News

The most interesting game of round 29 was a home defeat of 7th ranked Fuerza Guinda Nogales (13-16) to sixth ranked Pioneros Los Mochis (14-15) 107-99 in the game for the sixth place. The guests trailed by 3 points at the halftime before their 64-53 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Pioneros Los Mochis made 20-of-24 free shots (83.3 percent) during the game. Pioneros Los Mochis outrebounded Fuerza Guinda Nogales 48-29 including a 35-22 advantage in defensive rebounds. Americans were the main players on the court. Forward Seth Scott (208-81, college: Portland St.) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 35 points (!!!) and 15 rebounds for the winners and forward Devon Pearson (198-84, college: SMU) chipped in 34 points (!!!) and 9 rebounds. Forward Keith Davis (198-82) responded with a double-double by scoring 21 points and 10 rebounds. Pioneros Los Mochis have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain sixth place with 14-15 record. Fuerza Guinda Nogales lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the seventh position with 16 games lost. Pioneros Los Mochis will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Fuerza Guinda Nogales will play again at home against Pioneros Los Mochis (#6) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Very important is a home loss of third ranked Tijuana Zonkeys (19-10) against fifth ranked Frayles de Guasave (15-14) on Friday night. Host Tijuana Zonkeys were defeated by Frayles de Guasave in a tough game in Tijuana 78-84. American guard Russell Carter (196-85, college: Notre Dame) nailed 34 points (!!!), 6 rebounds, 5 assists and 5 steals (was perfect 10-for-10 from the free throw line !!!) for the winning side and Gabriel Giron accounted for 22 points. American swingman Marcus Morrison (198-84, college: Middle Tenn.St.) came up with a double-double by scoring 26 points and 10 rebounds for Tijuana Zonkeys in the defeat. Frayles de Guasave have a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Cananea. Tijuana Zonkeys lost fifth consecutive game. They keep the third position with ten games lost. Frayles de Guasave will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Tijuana Zonkeys will play again at home against Frayles de Guasave and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
CIBACOPA top team - Rayos de Hermosillo (25-4) had no problems winning another game on Friday. This time they crushed eighth ranked Caballeros de Culiacan (10-19) 96-66. The best player for the winners was Jorge Camacho who scored 23 points (on 10-of-13 shooting from the field). Rob Robinson produced 26 points and 5 rebounds for the guests. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Rayos de Hermosillo have an impressive series of thirteen victories in a row. They maintain first place with 25-4 record. Caballeros de Culiacan lost third consecutive game. They keep the eighth position with 19 games lost. Rayos de Hermosillo will again meet at home Caballeros de Culiacan (#8) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Caballeros de Culiacan will have a break next round.

In the last two games of round 29 bottom-ranked Tepic was destroyed by Cananea on the opponent's court 109-88. Guaymas managed to outperform Navolato in a home game 101-89.


Hermosillo - Culiacan 96-66

CIBACOPA top team - Rayos de Hermosillo (25-4) had no problems winning another game on Friday. This time they crushed eighth ranked Caballeros de Culiacan (10-19) 96-66. The game without a history. Rayos de Hermosillo led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They shot the lights out from three sinking 14 long-distance shots on high 63.6 percentage. Rayos de Hermosillo looked well-organized offensively handing out 32 assists comparing to just 10 passes made by Caballeros de Culiacan's players. The best player for the winners was forward Jorge Camacho (200-89, college: E.Kentucky) who scored 23 points (on 10-of-13 shooting from the field). Naturalized American point guard Steve Monreal (180-86, college: CS Monterey) chipped in a double-double by scoring 11 points and 12 assists. Four Rayos de Hermosillo players scored in double figures. American forward Rob Robinson (203-87, college: Robert Morris, agency: SDJ Sports) produced 26 points and 5 rebounds and the former international center Rodrigo Zamora (206-86, college: Montana St.) added 13 points and 9 rebounds respectively for the guests. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Rayos de Hermosillo have an impressive series of thirteen victories in a row. They maintain first place with 25-4 record. Caballeros de Culiacan lost third consecutive game. They keep the eighth position with 19 games lost. Rayos de Hermosillo will again meet at home Caballeros de Culiacan (#8) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Caballeros de Culiacan will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Hermosillo: J.Camacho 23+3reb+1ast, P.Sanders 14+7reb+4ast, E.Little 13+6reb+3ast, S.Monreal 11+2reb+12ast, J.Coronado 10+1reb+1ast, J.Durazo 8+3reb
Culiacan: R.Robinson 26+5reb, R.Zamora 13+9reb, R.Lopez 9+5reb, M.Henderson 7+4reb+3ast, V.Avila 6+4reb, R.Navarro 3+1reb+3ast
gschID: 171218


Cananea - Tepic 109-88

Very expected game when 10th ranked Coras de Tepic (2-27) was crushed on the road by fourth ranked Mineros de Cananea (15-14) 109-88 on Friday. The game was mostly controlled by Mineros de Cananea. Coras de Tepic managed to win second period 24-20. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Americans were the main players on the court also this time. The best player for the winners was guard Cheyenne Moore (198-84, college: Georgetown, KY) who scored 30 points and 6 rebounds. Forward Rodney Alexander (201-87, college: Oklahoma City) chipped in a double-double by scoring 20 points and 10 rebounds. Four Mineros de Cananea players scored in double figures. Mineros de Cananea's coach felt very confident that he used 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Center Deangelo Riley (205, college: Azusa Pacific) produced a double-double by scoring 30 points, 10 rebounds and 5 blocks and forward Ray Reese (196-87, college: Tulsa) added 25 points and 4 assists respectively for the guests. The victory was the fifth consecutive win for Mineros de Cananea. Defending champion maintains fourth place with 15-14 record, which they share with Guasave. Coras de Tepic lost their fourth game in a row. They stay dead last with 27 lost games. Mineros de Cananea will again meet at home bottom-ranked Coras de Tepic (#10) in the next round which should be theoretically another easy game. Coras de Tepic will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Cananea: C.Moore 30+6reb+1ast, R.Alexander 20+10reb+1ast, F.Harris 16+1reb+8ast, D.Thomas 16+1reb+1ast, J.Verdugo 8+9reb, M.Acuna 7+3reb+1ast
Tepic: D.Riley 30+10reb+3ast, R.Reese 25+2reb+4ast, K.Young 23+5reb+1ast, E.Swanson 6+3reb+2ast, R.Aguilar Nery 4+6reb, A.Velarde 0+1reb+2ast
gschID: 171215


Tijuana - Guasave 78-84

Very important is a home loss of third ranked Tijuana Zonkeys (19-10) against fifth ranked Frayles de Guasave (15-14) on Friday night. Host Tijuana Zonkeys were defeated by Frayles de Guasave in a tough game in Tijuana 78-84. Tijuana Zonkeys were ahead by 1 point after three quarters before a 26-19 charge of Frayles de Guasave, which allowed them to win the game. They made 21-of-25 charity shots (84.0 percent) during the game. Frayles de Guasave forced 20 Tijuana Zonkeys turnovers. American guard Russell Carter (196-85, college: Notre Dame) nailed 34 points (!!!), 6 rebounds, 5 assists and 5 steals (was perfect 10-for-10 from the free throw line !!!) for the winning side and naturalized Panamanian forward Gabriel Giron (192-88) accounted for 22 points. American swingman Marcus Morrison (198-84, college: Middle Tenn.St.) came up with a double-double by scoring 26 points and 10 rebounds and the other American import power forward Cyrus Tate (203-85, college: Iowa, agency: Edge Sports) added 18 points and 13 rebounds respectively for Tijuana Zonkeys in the defeat. Four Tijuana Zonkeys players scored in double figures. Frayles de Guasave have a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Cananea. Tijuana Zonkeys lost fifth consecutive game. They keep the third position with ten games lost. Frayles de Guasave will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Tijuana Zonkeys will play again at home against Frayles de Guasave and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Guasave: R.Carter 34+6reb+5ast, G.Giron 22+3reb+2ast, D.Green 13+10reb+2ast, A.Izaguirre 8+9reb+2ast, V.Buelna 4+2reb+2ast, M.Anaya 3+1reb
Tijuana: M.Morrison 26+10reb+2ast, C.Tate 18+13reb+3ast, E.Medina 14+6reb+7ast, L.Ramirez 10+2reb+2ast, G.Lira 4+2reb, A.Sandoval 4+6reb
gschID: 171216


Nogales - Los Mochis 99-107

The most interesting game of round 29 was a home defeat of 7th ranked Fuerza Guinda Nogales (13-16) to sixth ranked Pioneros Los Mochis (14-15) 107-99 in the game for the sixth place. The guests trailed by 3 points at the halftime before their 64-53 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Pioneros Los Mochis made 20-of-24 free shots (83.3 percent) during the game. Pioneros Los Mochis outrebounded Fuerza Guinda Nogales 48-29 including a 35-22 advantage in defensive rebounds. Americans were the main players on the court. Forward Seth Scott (208-81, college: Portland St.) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 35 points (!!!) and 15 rebounds for the winners and forward Devon Pearson (198-84, college: SMU) chipped in 34 points (!!!) and 9 rebounds. Forward Keith Davis (198-82) responded with a double-double by scoring 21 points and 10 rebounds and swingman O'Louis McCullough (198-82, college: Francis Marion) scored 23 points and 5 rebounds. Five Fuerza Guinda Nogales players scored in double figures. Pioneros Los Mochis have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain sixth place with 14-15 record. Fuerza Guinda Nogales lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the seventh position with 16 games lost. Pioneros Los Mochis will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Fuerza Guinda Nogales will play again at home against Pioneros Los Mochis (#6) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Los Mochis: S.Scott 35+15reb+1ast, D.Pearson 34+9reb+2ast, W.Funn 21+8reb+9ast, E.Hare 8+7reb+2ast, C.M. Toussaint 7+4reb+4ast, L.Felipe Diaz 2+5reb
Nogales: O.McCullough 23+5reb+2ast, K.Davis 21+10reb+1ast, B.Heredia 19+1reb+8ast, M.Gale 16+5reb+4ast, M.Strobbe 14+6reb+3ast, V.Rojo 4+1reb
gschID: 171217


Guaymas - Navolato 101-89

Very predictable result when second ranked Ostioneros de Guaymas (23-6) defeated at home 9th ranked Garra Canera de Navolato (9-20) 101-89 on Friday. The game without a history. Ostioneros de Guaymas led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. It was a great shooting night for Ostioneros de Guaymas especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 52.4 percentage. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. The best player for the winners was American point guard Myron Allen (182-79, college: Lee JC) who scored 26 points and 8 assists. His fellow American import forward Jerome Habel (208-85, college: San Diego St.) chipped in a double-double by scoring 19 points and 13 rebounds. Four Ostioneros de Guaymas players scored in double figures. Ostioneros de Guaymas' coach LaSelle Taylor used an eleven-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American forward Ronald Selleaze (197-76, college: CSU Bakersfield, agency: Dream Team Management) produced 26 points and 8 rebounds and Dominican-American guard Damien McSwine (193-78, college: Loyola, IL) added 23 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists respectively for the guests. The victory was the sixth consecutive win for Ostioneros de Guaymas. They maintain second place with 23-6 record having just two points less than leader Hermosillo. Garra Canera de Navolato lost their third game in a row. They keep the ninth position with 20 games lost. Ostioneros de Guaymas will again meet at home Garra Canera de Navolato (#9) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Garra Canera de Navolato will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Guaymas: M.Allen 26+4reb+8ast, J.Habel 19+13reb, H.Johnson 18+2reb+2ast, H.Carrillo 12+5reb+6ast, H.Nungaray 9+1reb+1ast, J.Sanchez 9+2ast
Navolato: R.Selleaze 26+8reb+1ast, C.Moore 23+5reb, D.McSwine 23+5reb+4ast, F.Verdugo 9+2reb+3ast, J.Angel Reatiga 8+6reb+1ast, H.Munguia 0+1reb
gschID: 171214



*****************************************************
  NAMIBIA   


NBF Selects Under-20 National Squads - by Eurobasket News

Windhoek After successfully finalizing all regional trials, the Namibian Basketball Federation (NBF) wasted no time and guardedly selected two strong Under-20 preliminary national squads.

In a three-day clinic conducted at the Augustineum Secondary School in Windhoek, 40 girls and boys from all over Namibia underwent rigorous training on a tight schedule. Following athletic tests, ball handling tests, shooting contests, 1 on 1 contests, 3-3 and 5-5 games, the NBF selected its two preliminary squads for the Zone VI U-20 Youth Games slated for Zambia in December.

The boys' team is as follows: Fillemon Auwanga, Paita Cecilio, Iyaloo Fransiseo, McDonald Garab, Tayson Haimbodi, Landuleni Iipinge, Andrew Oletu, Stephen Kaluwa, Raphael Paulus, Tuhafeni Shinyama, Reginald Sisande, Albino Siwongo.

The girls' team is led by Shakira Ajam and consists of Aily Alfeus, Lizanne Cloete, Frieda Kolowali, Sylvia Nampadhi, Vanessa Neumann, Saima Sakaria, Alma Samuel, Hertha Shimuketa, Victoria Shilongo, Nina Simao, Yolanda Tobias.

On call are Onesmus Haipa, Titus Paulus, Isack Uutoni for the boys and Marjory Harases. Those on standby are Lyn Lucas, Teopolina Shikulo for the girls. Respected basketball coach Frank Albin, assisted by the coaches and administrators Jasmin Dieler, Thomas Elikana, Simon Gerv, Intila Katambo, Nande Kayala, Istvan Olivier, Pondo Nailenge, Inga Riemann, Francina Shilongo and Yyvonne Washaya took charge of the trials.
Courtesy of New Era



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

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Kobe BRYANT
  LA Lakers
  (198-G-78)
  Avg: 28
 1. Bryant, LA Lakers28.0 
 2. Durant, Oklah.Ci.27.9 
 3. James, Miami Heat27.2 
 4. Love, Minnesota T.26.0 
 5. Westbrook, Oklah..23.5 
 6. Anthony, New Y.22.6 
 7. Nowitzki, Dallas M.22.0 
 8. Wade, Miami Heat22.0 
 9. Rose, Chicago B.21.9 
 10. Ellis, Golde S.21.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Dwight HOWARD
  Orlando M.
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 14.5
 1. Howard, Orlando M.14.5 
 2. Love, Minnesota T.13.4 
 3. Bynum, LA Lakers11.8 
 4. Humphries, New J.11.0 
 5. Cousins, Sacramen.11.0 
 6. Griffin, LA Clipp.10.7 
 7. Gasol, LA Lakers10.3 
 8. Gortat, Phoenix10.0 
 9. Chandler, New Y.9.8 
 10. Noah, Chicago B.9.8 
Assists Per Game
 Rajon RONDO
  Boston C.
  (185-PG-86)
  Avg: 11.7
 1. Rondo, Boston C.11.7 
 2. Nash, Phoenix Suns10.7 
 3. Paul, LA Clippers9.1 
 4. Calderon, Toron.8.8 
 5. Williams, New J.8.7 
 6. Rubio, Minnesot.8.2 
 7. Wall, Washington W.8.0 
 8. Rose, Chicago B.7.9 
 9. Parker, San A.7.7 
 10. Conley, Memphis G.6.7 
Steals Per Game
 Chris PAUL
  LA Clippers
  (183-PG-85)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Paul, LA Clippers2.6 
 2. Rubio, Minnesot.2.2 
 3. Conley, Memphis G.2.1 
 4. Rondo, Boston C.1.9 
 5. James, Miami Heat1.9 
 6. Kidd, Dallas M.1.8 
 7. Millsap, Utah Jazz1.8 
 8. Allen, Memphis G.1.8 
 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. Jordan, LA Clippers2.1 
 5. Hibbert, Indiana P.2.1 
 6. Bynum, LA Lakers2.1 
 7. Gasol, Memphis G.1.9 
 8. Smith, Atlanta H.1.8 
 9. Biyombo, Charlott.1.8 
 10. Brand, Philadelph.1.7 


Rajon Rondo etches name in NBA record book - by Eurobasket News

Rajon Rondo (6'1''-PG-86, college: Kentucky) made plenty of history in the Boston Celtics 90-84 overtime win over the Atlanta Hawks.

Rondo became the first player in NBA history with at least 17 points, 14 rebounds, 12 assists and four steals in a playoff game, according to the Elias Sports Bureau.

Elias also tells us hes the first player in NBA history to record a triple-double in a playoff game after missing his teams previous game.

Rondo triple-doubles equal Celtics wins. In Rondos 20 career triple-doubles (13 in the regular season, seven in the playoffs), the Celtics have a 19-1 record. The lone loss came to the Chicago Bulls in the first round in 2009.

Including the regular season and playoffs, nobody has more triple-doubles than Rajon Rondo (20) since the start of the 2008-09 season.

Rondos seven career playoff triple-doubles are tied with LeBron James for the second-most among active players, trailing only Jason Kidds 11.

Rondo really steps his game up in the playoffs. He notches triple-doubles more than three times as often in the playoffs as he does in the regular season. Hes done so once every 34 games in the regular season, but once every 11 games in the playoffs.

Per Elias, Rondos seven triple-doubles in his first 75 playoff games is tied with Kidd for the fourth-most in NBA history. Only Magic Johnson (18), Wilt Chamberlain (8) and Oscar Robertson (8) had more in their first 75 playoff games.

Only five players in NBA history have more than Rondo's seven career playoff triple-doubles. Magic Johnson (30) is the all-time leader in that category.

Rondo has etched his name in playoff lore by joining an elite list of NBA all-time greats.

Courtesy of http://espn.go.com



Source: Blazers requested to speak with Indiana's David Morway - by Eurobasket News

The Portland Trail Blazers have requested permission to speak with Indiana Pacers' General Manager, David Morway, about their open GM vacancy and consent was granted according to a source close to the situation.

Morway who has been with the Pacers for 12 years and Trail Blazers' President Larry Miller are expected to meet in the next week or so.

Considered as Larry Bird's right-hand man, Morway was promoted to GM in May of 2008 by Bird who is the Pacers' President of Basketball Operations after serving as the team's Senior Vice President of Basketball Administration.

The third seed Pacers are currently up 2-1 to the sixth seed Orlando Magic in the first round of the Eastern Conference playoffs thanks to the drafting of a promising guard in Paul George, the trade bringing in Darren Collison, the free agent acquisition of David West and George Hill, and the re-signing of Frank Vogel who is one of the top up-and-coming coaches in this league.

All of these moves were made under Morway's watch.

Morway has a unique background in that he's held the role of Assistant to the President for the San Diego Padres from 1985-88, focusing primarily on negotiations and contract analysis. He also served as President of Professional Excellence Sports, Inc. for three years representing over 70 clients.

Courtesy of www.csnnw.com



Thunder sweep champion Mavs out of playoffs - by Eurobasket News

The NBA champion Dallas Mavericks were swept out of the first round of the playoffs on Saturday as the Oklahoma City Thunder wrapped up their Western Conference series with a 103-97 victory.

James Harden (6'5''-G-89, college: Arizona St.) scored 15 of his 29 points in the fourth quarter as the Thunder won their fourth straight in the best-of-seven series to make the Mavericks the first defending champions to be swept in the first round since the Miami Heat in 2007.

Kevin Durant (6'9''-G/F-88, college: Texas) added 24 points and 11 rebounds and Russell Westbrook (6'3''-PG-88, college: UCLA) finished with 12 points, six assists and five rebounds for the second-seeded Thunder.

They became the first team to reach the second round, where they will face either the Los Angeles Lakers or Denver Nuggets.

Dirk Nowitzki (7'0''-F-78), the Most Valuable Player of last season's NBA finals triumph over Miami, led the Mavericks with 34 points and Jason Kidd added 16 with eight assists and seven rebounds.

Elsewhere in the West, the Los Angeles Clippers rallied for a dramatic 87-86 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies.

In Salt Lake City, Tony Parker (6'0''-PG-82) scored 27 points to lead the San Antonio Spurs over the Utah Jazz 102-90. The victory put the top-seeded Spurs on the brink of advancing as they took a 3-0 lead in the series.

Tim Duncan (6'11''-F/C-76, college: Wake Forest) scored 17 points and Danny Green 14 for the Spurs, who will try to complete the sweep on Monday in Salt Lake City.

In Dallas, Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle said the Thunder were just too good for the defending champions.

'They're a great young team,' Carlisle said of the Thunder. 'And the thing that impressed me most about them is that they have a certain look in their eye right now, not just that they belong, but that this could be their time.'

After reaching half-time tied at 47-47, Dallas came out strong in the third quarter.

Nowitzki scored 10 points in a 17-7 scoring run to open the third as Dallas seized a double-digit lead.

Oklahoma City trimmed the deficit to 67-61 on Derek Fisher (6'1''-PG-74, college: UALR) 's three-pointer with just over four minutes to play in the third. Dallas responded with a 14-7 scoring run and took an 81-68 lead into the fourth quarter.

Even that, however, wasn't enough against a young, hungry Oklahoma City team that was ousted from the playoffs by the Mavericks last year.

Dallas were leading 86-73 early in the fourth when Harden scored seven straight points to launch a 25-7 scoring run that saw the Thunder surge into a 98-93 lead with 2:30 to play.

Oklahoma City were up 100-97 in the final minute when Harden took an inbounds pass, drove to the net and rolled in a layup off his finger. A Durant free throw completed the scoring.

'They came at us like a buzz saw in the fourth quarter,' Carlisle said. 'They made plays. We couldn't stop them. They were able to stop us enough. We walk away from this very disappointed but knowing the better team won.'

In Los Angeles, Chris Paul (6'0''-PG-85, college: Wake Forest) scored 24 points and handed out 11 assists for the Clippers, who took a 2-1 lead in the best-of-seven series, with game four on Monday in Los Angeles.

Blake Griffin (6'10''-F-89, college: Oklahoma) added 17 points and Randy Foye's 16 points included four three pointers, one of which knotted the score in the waning minutes.

Rudy Gay finished with 24 points for Memphis, but missed a potential game-winning jump shot at the buzzer.

Courtesy of www.abs-cbnnews.com



Nuggets' Harrington sidelined with nose fracture - by Eurobasket News

Nuggets forward Al Harrington's (6'9''-F-80) nose was broken when he caught an inadvertent elbow from the Los Angeles Lakers' Andrew Bynum as they battled for a rebound late in the third quarter of Friday night's first-round playoff game.

Harrington left the game with 48 seconds remaining in the third quarter and the team said he would not return. There was no immediate word on his status for Sunday's Game 4 at the Pepsi Center.

A key reserve, Harrington scored seven points before being sidelined. He appeared in 67 games so far this season.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com



Avery Bradley suffers dislocated shoulder - by Eurobasket News

Boston Celtics coach Doc Rivers said starting shooting guard Avery Bradley (6'2''-G-90, college: Texas) dislocated his left shoulder during Fridays Game 3 win over the Atlanta Hawks in an Eastern Conference quarterfinal series and his status is uncertain.

Shoulder went out, Rivers said. And hes had that problem all year. Usually theyre able to - like a Lego - snap it back in. It wouldnt go back in. So well find out more (Saturday).

Bradley suffered the injury late in the third quarter and departed for the locker room along with team doctor Brian McKeon with 2:06 to play in the frame. The team initially said Bradley would return, but soon ruled him out for the rest of the game.

Courtesy of ESPN Boston (via www.insidehoops.com)



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


Kentucky gives Calipari raise following title - by Eurobasket News

Kentucky coach John Calipari is getting a raise following the Wildcats' NCAA basketball title in April.

The school says Friday it awarded an 8.3 percent increase annually in compensation from media rights and endorsements over the remaining seven years of his deal for a guaranteed $36.5 million.

Calipari will receive $5.2 million annually from endorsements, base salary and retention bonuses for each of the next six years. The deal increases to $5.3 million in 2018-19. He can also earn up to $850,000 a year in performance bonuses.

Kentucky also announced it had extended the contracts of assistant coaches Orlando Antigua, Kenny Payne and John Robic.

Courtesy of http://msn.foxsports.com



UConn loses a post player, but recruits another - by Eurobasket News

Connecticut has received a verbal commitment from a 6-foot-10 forward, just as another officially transferred from the school.

Phil Nolan, a recruit from Milwaukee, gave UConn a verbal commitment on Thursday. He told reporters Thursday evening that he expects to compete immediately for playing time on a UConn team that has lost four big men in the last month.

Western Kentucky confirmed Friday that it has received the transfer papers of 6-10 redshirt freshman Michael Bradley (6'10''-F/C-92).

Freshman Andre Drummond (6'11''-C-93) last month declared for the NBA draft, junior Alex Oriakhi (6'9''-F/C-90) transferred to Missouri, and sophomore Roscoe Smith (6'8''-F-91) also has been released from his scholarship and intends to transfer.

UConn is facing a ban from the 2013 postseason because of failures to meet NCAA academic standards.

Courtesy of http://sports.yahoo.com



Illinois adds McLaurin from Coastal Carolina - by Eurobasket News

Coastal Carolina forward Sam McLaurin (6'8''-F) will transfer to Illinois after his graduation this month.

In a news release Friday, Illinois says the 6-8, 230-pound McLaurin will enroll as a graduate student and has one season of eligibility left. Under NCAA rules, he'll be able to play next season.

McLaurin started 31 games for the Chanticleers last season. He averaged 10 points and 7.5 rebounds a game.

First-year Illini coach John Groce says McLaurin should help Illinois' front-court depth. The early departure of 7-1 center Meyers Leonard to the NBA Draft left the Illini short on experienced big men.

Illinois has now signed graduate transfers in two straight seasons. Guard Sam Maniscalco joined the Illini last season after graduating from Bradley.

Courtesy of www.cbssports.com



Conference USA expands by 5 members - by Eurobasket News

Conference USA announced Friday that it is adding five new schools in 2013.

Commissioner Britton Banowsky said Charlotte, Florida International, Louisiana Tech, North Texas and UT-San Antonio will join the league in all sports, with Charlotte joining in football in 2015.

Charlotte is rejoining Conference USA after several years in the Atlantic 10. Louisiana Tech has been in the WAC since 2001, and UTSA will play in the WAC next year before joining CUSA. FIU and North Texas will be leaving the Sun Belt Conference.

Current CUSA members include East Carolina, Marshall, Rice, Southern Mississippi, Tulane, Tulsa, Alabama-Birmingham and UTEP. Conference USA will lose Houston, SMU, Memphis and Central Florida to the Big East in 2013.

Banowsky says Conference USA and the Mountain West continue to discuss a merger and expansion remains a possibility.

''The discussions with the Mountain West are ongoing,'' Banowsky added. ''What form the relationship will take is still to be determined, but both remain committed to working together.''

For now, the conference is happy to be at 13 teams.

''We are excited about adding these new members as part of our bold strategy that focuses on growing institutions in large media markets,'' Banowsky said. ''There is a tremendous upside here. This is an opportunity for us to add a mixture of established and emerging programs. We also remain committed to divisional scheduling models that are student-athlete and fan-friendly. The more we analyzed it, the more it made sense.''

Conference USA noted that the metro area population of the new additions is nearly 18 million. Divisions will be announced later.

The move puts Charlotte on the fast track to go from a school without a football team to one that will play in the Championship Subdivision and then the Bowl Subdivision after just two seasons, the shortest time allowed by the NCAA. The 49ers will be bowl eligible in 2016.

The other school to do that was UTSA, a program the 49ers have tried to emulate. UTSA went 4-6 in its inaugural football season under Larry Coker as an independent in FCS last year, but the program has sought to accelerate its national profile.

Charlotte Chancellor Dr. Philip Dubois said that while nobody expected things to move along this quickly it was an opportunity the university simply couldn't pass up.

''To be sure, it is an upgrade to what some of us envisioned,'' Dubois said. ''I certainly have been ahead of the pack in urging us to crawl first, then walk and then run. But when opportunity knocks in Division I athletics, it is most certainly not the Avon lady.''

Dubois said the move was ''momentous'' for the university's football program.

''We have yet to take a snap on McColl-Richardson Field, yet to play our first game, yet to have even our first practice - but because of who we are, because of what we've done, and because of the great community we live in - we have the unique opportunity to become one of the first programs in history to go from no football to FBS football in the minimum time allowed by NCAA regulations,'' Dubois said.

Charlotte is planning on meeting with its architects to add 2,500 to 5,000 temporary seats, as well as adding lighting - the wiring was already in place - to allow night games, which would potentially draw additional television revenue.

''In adding football, it was imperative that we find a conference to compete in - and today we struck gold,'' athletic director Judy Rose said. ''We not only found a conference to play in - but we found an FBS conference. A top 10 basketball conference. A conference that includes regional rivals, and holds national attention and it's a conference that has an in-state opponent to fight for bragging rights. It's a strong conference across the board.''

The Mountain West on Friday said San Jose State and Utah State will join the league in July 2013, which will give it 10 football-playing members. Currently, the league consists of Air Force, Colorado State, New Mexico, UNLV and Wyoming, with the Fresno State and Nevada coming aboard in July, and Hawaii becoming a football-only member on the same date.

Mountain West schools San Diego State and Boise State are joining the Big East for football next year.

The WAC, which once had 16 football teams, could be left with only New Mexico State and Idaho after next season. As for the Sun Belt, the league recently added Texas State and Georgia State as football members starting in 2013 in anticipation of losing two schools.

Courtesy of http://sports.yahoo.com



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

PBA Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Denzel BOWLES
  B-Meg L.
  (208-F/C-89)
  Avg: 25.7
 1. Bowles, B-Meg L.25.7 
 2. Parada, Alaska Ac.19.3 
 3. Harvey, Talk N Te.19.2 
 4. Baguio, Alaska Ac.18.2 
 5. Cardona, Meralco17.8 
 6. Tenorio, Alaska A.15.3 
 7. Yap, B-Meg Llam.15.3 
 8. Castro, Talk N Te.15.0 
 9. Miller, Barako Bull14.9 
 10. Seigle, Barako Bu.13.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Donnell HARVEY
  Talk N Text
  (203-F/C-80)
  Avg: 16.1
 1. Harvey, Talk N Te.16.1 
 2. Parada, Alaska Ac.14.1 
 3. Bowles, B-Meg L.12.1 
 4. Thoss, Alaska Aces8.2 
 5. Hatfield, Ginebra7.2 
 6. Cardona, Meralco6.8 
 7. Hugnatan, Meralco6.1 
 8. Williams, Talk N.5.8 
 9. Tubid, Barako Bull5.5 
 10. Taulava, Meralco5.5 
Assists Per Game
 Chris ROSS
  Meralco .
  (185-G-85)
  Avg: 7.8
 1. Ross, Meralco7.8 
 2. Tenorio, Alaska A.5.6 
 3. Cortez, Ginebra5.4 
 4. Alapag, Talk N Te.4.9 
 5. Custodio, Alaska A.3.8 
 6. Miller, Barako Bull3.7 
 7. Urbiztondo, B-Meg3.3 
 8. Castro, Talk N Te.3.2 
 9. Baguio, Alaska Ac.3.0 
 10. Bowles, B-Meg L.3.0 
Steals Per Game
 Chris ROSS
  Meralco .
  (185-G-85)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Ross, Meralco1.8 
 2. Reyes, Talk N Text1.5 
 3. Harvey, Talk N Te.1.5 
 4. Custodio, Alaska A.1.3 
 5. Cortez, Ginebra1.1 
 6. Tenorio, Alaska A.1.1 
 7. Dillinger, Talk N.1.1 
 8. Urbiztondo, B-Meg1.0 
 9. Arboleda, Barako B.0.9 
 10. Castro, Talk N T.0.9 
Blocks Per Game
 Adam PARADA
  Alaska Aces
  (213-C-81)
  Avg: 2
 1. Parada, Alaska Ac.2.0 
 2. Bowles, B-Meg L.1.8 
 3. Eman, Alaska Aces1.3 
 4. Thoss, Alaska Aces1.1 
 5. Harvey, Talk N Te.1.0 
 6. Peek, Talk N Text0.8 
 7. Pingris, B-Meg L.0.7 
 8. Williams, Talk N.0.6 
 9. Borboran, Meralco0.5 
 10. Taulava, Meralco0.5 


TNT spoils B-MEG's party preparations, forces Game 7 - by Eurobasket News

Talk N Text - B-Meg Llam. 92-82
Dangerous Talk 'N Text spoiled B-MEG's championship party preparations Friday night as the defending PBA Commissioner's Cup champion Tropang Texters defeated the Llamados, 92-82, in Game Six of their best-of-seven championship series at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. Jayson Castro (173-PG-86) exploded for 25 points as the Texters force a winner-take-all Game Seven on Sunday also at the Big Dome. The Llamados, behind Denzel Bowles' (208-F/C-89, college: JMU) 14 points, started hot in the first quarter while the Tropang Texters struggled from the field with Larry Fonacier (186-F/G-82) and Jared Dillinger (191-G/F-84, college: Hawaii) combining for 10. The first period ended at 27-19 after Castro's unsuccessful three-point attempt. Peter June Simon opened up B-MEG's scoring in the second, making a tough one-hander over a larger defender in Dillinger. James Yap (191-F/G-82) continued with his strong performance in the second quarter, adding 12 markers to his seven-point first quarter performance. Ryan Reyes (188-G-83, college: Cerritos JC) tried to sparked TNT's offense, scoring six straight points while Castro added another two from a lay-up to cut the B-MEG lead to nine, 39-30, three minutes gone in the period. The Tropang Texters continued to pour it on as Donnell Harvey (203-F/C-80, college: Florida) and Ryan Reyes scored five more to bring the lead down to four, 39-35. Denzel Bowles tried to stop the bleeding, scoring a put back from a JC Intal missed three-pointer. After a completed steal by Reyes, Dillinger sank a jumper to further cut the B-MEG lead. Yap refused to be denied, scoring four points, a technical free throw and a long bomb from way beyond the arc, to bring B-MEG's lead back to eight anew. Ranidel de Ocampo countered with consecutive treys to put Talk 'N Text within two, 45-43, with less than three minutes left. A Harvey putback, with 30 seconds left, cut B-MEG's lead to one (48-47). Castro, with still five seconds left in the second, hit a three-pointer to shove the Tropang Texters to a 50-48 lead at the turn. In the third, Bowles and Harvey traded points inside the paint, but a Ranidel deOcampo (194-F-81) three gave the Tropang Texters a 55-50 spread. A Dillinger three, under the seven-minute mark, brought Talk 'N Text's lead up to nine. A Jonas Villanueva floater put the Llamados within striking distance at 65-61. A Bowles putback ended the quarter with the Texters still on up, 67-63. Villanueva opened up the scoring in the fourth with a three, cutting the Texters' lead to one. After an offensive foul and a technical foul from Jayson Castro, Yap missed a free throw to cut the lead to two. Castro, after Yap's missed lay-up, went coast-to-coast and scored for a 71-66 Texters lead with eight minutes to go. The Llamados continued to struggle, while the Texters finally found their offensive rhythm with De Ocampo draining another three to put Talk 'N Text up by eight, 74-66. A Castro trey hiked TNT's lead to 13, five minutes left to play. B-MEG coach Tim Cone, to combat their inside woes, put in Josh Urbiztondo and Ital to support the trio of Bowles, Yap and Simon. The group responded, with Yap and Bowles scoring two each to bring trim the Texters' lead down to single digits, 79-70. The Llamados threatened for the last time on a Yap three-pointer, 86-78, with four minutes remaining. But TNT won't be denied of the win as Castro and Reyes' back-to-back baskets gave the Texters the needed breathing room. Cone threw in the towel as he rested his starters and brought in Mike Burtscher, Val Acuna and Jherwin Gaco to finish the game. - JVP, GMA News *Courtesy of www.gmanetwork.com



2012 PBA Commissioners Cup Finals: May 2 & 4, 2012 - by Enzo Flojo

Of course, it had to go to a Game 7.

I was actually praying for this. Up there in Tagaytay City, in my schools annual retreat, with my colleagues, reflecting on the previous year, I was also secretly asking the Man if He could just push this series to a seventh game.

Why?

Because this has just been so darn fun.

Fun to watch.

Fun for a returnee fan like me.

So come Sunday, Ill be tuned in, raring to see who steps up and who takes the fall.

Im traditionally for the Texters because of the plethora of Ateneo connections, but Im in neutral zone right now because I think Pamboy Raymundo sucks.

Nevertheless, what really makes me excited about this whole shebang is that the PBA is attracting fans again, which is simply awesome.

Kudos to Commissioner Chito Salud (Atenean, folks), and his staff for steering the PBA to this return to the spotlight. Of course, the players deserve the most recognition for playing their hearts out in every game.

I guess the refs, too, for letting the players play so to speak. Some quarters might say the refs might have been allowing a little too much leeway with the contact and all, but, hey, welcome to modern sports entertainment. In this time when the UFC is lording over the airwaves, and when the WWE is seeing its own resurgence, the PBA has to allow a bit of physicality to stay relevant.

And, well, since Mannys gloves are holstered for the time being, I guess we can all enjoy the prospect of a Josh Urbiztondo-Pamboy Raymundo slugfest in Game 7.

Boo-yah.

Game Recaps:

Game 5:
B-MEG LLAMADOS over TALK N TEXT TROPANG TEXTERS, 82-66


B-Meg drew monster games from James Yap and Denzel Bowles and is now on the brink of the PBA Commissioner's Cup championship.

Yap and Bowles combined for 58 points and the Llamados handily beat the Talk N Text Tropang Texters to move within another win of capping the franchise's ninth title overall.

Before a crowd of almost 16,000, Yap, the two-time MVP, went 4-for-4 from beyond the arc and 10-for-16 from the field for a personal conference-high 30 points that went with nine rebounds despite an array of defenders thrown at him.

Jared Dillinger had a second straight 18-point game and Donnell Harvey had 13 points and 16 rebounds, but TNT found itself now taking its turn at trying to come up with an effort to match B-Meg's.

Bowles wound up with 28 points on top of a game-high 18 rebounds. His 13 points in the fourth period matched the entire Texters output, leading to the series' second straight blowout after the first three games were decided by an average margin of only four points.

Marc Pingris, who dislocated his left ring finger early in the game but had it taped to the middle joint and came back to finish the game, was especially cited by B-Megs coach Tim Cone, as well as Yancy de Ocampo, who finished with eight points and seven rebounds and helped defend Harvey and sustain B-Meg's attack in the middle quarters before fouling out late in the third period.

PJ Simon was held to only five points but that was offset by Texter Ranidel de Ocampo winding up with only three points.

Even Jimmy Alapag had just six points but those came too far between. His first triple, though, moved TNT within 53-54 before Yap strung up five straight points to make it a six-point game heading to the final 12 minutes of play.

Devance opened up the fourth quarter with a three-point play off a Simon feed and Pingris' teardrop made it 64-53, before Yap and Bowles took over.

Talk N Text would come no closer than seven points the rest of the way.

BML 82 - Yap 30, Bowles 28, De Ocampo 8, Simon 5, Urbiztondo, Devance 3, Barroca 2, Pingris 2, Gaco 0, Burtscher 0, Intal 0, Reavis 0.
TNT 66 - Dillinger 18, Castro 16, Harvey 13, Alapag 6, Peek 6, De Ocampo 3, Gamalinda 2, Fonacier 2, Aguilar 0, Reyes 0, Williams 0, Carey 0.
QS: 24-15, 41-33, 59-53, 82-66

Game 6:
TALK N TEXT TROPANG TEXTERS over B-MEG LLAMADOS, 92-82


The title showdown between proud reigning champ Talk n Text and mighty challenger B-Meg has turned to be a real classic, climaxing in a winner-take-all match Sunday.

As in Games Two and Four, the Tropang Texters fought back from a loss, pulling off a forceful win in Game Six to send the PBA Commissioners Cup best-of-seven series to full distance.

The Texters shook off a lethargic start and rode on Jayson Castros decisive flurry in the final canto as the Texters foiled the party anticipated by the Llamados and their part of the mammoth crowd of over 20,000 filling the Smart Araneta Coliseum Friday night.

Castro delivered 25 points, including 14 in the last quarter and the other Talk n Text top guns found their old superb shooting as the Texters survived a third do-or-die game in the tourney.

B-Megs Tim Cone mentioned the lack of support Denzel Bowles and James Yap got from their teammates. The Tropang Texters put up a solid game together, easily negating the 33-point performance of Bowles and the 27-point showing of Yap. Curiously, no other B-Meg scored more than five.

Jarred Dillinger, Ranidel de Ocampo, Donnell Harvey and Ryan Reyes were four other Texters who logged double-digit outputs. Proving to be a big key was the 14-of-24 combined three-point shooting of Castro, Dillinger, De Ocampo, Reyes and Larry Fonacier. De Ocampo snapped off his personal slump, knocking in four three-pointers and finishing with 15 points, six rebounds, one assist and one steal in 28 minutes of action.

TNT 92 - Castro 25, Dillinger 16, De Ocampo 15, Harvey 11, Reyes 11, Fonacier 6, Alapag 4, Williams 2, Peek 2, Gamalinda 0, Carey 0.
B-MEG 82 - Bowles 33, Yap 27, Intal 5, Villanueva 5, De Ocampo 4, Barroca 2, Urbiztondo 2, Devance 2, Simon 2, Acuna 0, Gaco 0, Burtscher 0, Pingris 0, Reavis 0.
QS: 19-27, 50-48, 67-63, 92-82

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




ASEAN League: Patriots roll past Slingers - by Eurobasket News

Philippine Patriots - Singapore Slingers 90:84

Philippine Patriots celebrated the 15th win in the ASEAN League season. They knocked down Singapore Slingers to improve at 15-5 record. Anthony Johnson (197-G/F-79, agency: Interperformances, college: La-Lafayette) notched 26 points to lead the hosts. The Slingers fell at 8-11 record in the fifth position in the ladder.
The Slingers enjoyed a strong start to the game. They led by 9 points after ten minutes 22:13. The visitors stretched the margin in the second quarter 44:31. But the Patriots stopped the bleeding in the third quarter. They narrowed the gap at 9-point mark at the final intermission. The home team unleashed 37 points in the fourth stanza to erase the deficit and eventually snatch a tough win at the end. Nakiea Miller (204-C-79, college: Iona) had 20 points and 11 rebounds for the Patriots. Ardy Larong (190-G/F-80) had 9 points in the win. Jeffers Kyle (207-C-85, college: Oregon St.) replied with 30 points and 15 boards for the Slingers. Graham Louis (205-F/C-84) provided 20 points and 12 rebounds in the loss.

Philippine Patriots: Anthony Johnson 26, Nakiea Miller 20+11 boards, Ardy Larong 9
Singapore Slingers: Jeffers Kyle 30, Graham Louis 20+12 boards



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

Stats Leaders - 1Liga

Points Per Game
 Lukasz PACOCHA
  AZS S.
  (182-G-82)
  Avg: 18.5
 1. Pacocha, AZS S.18.5 
 2. Woloszyn, MKS D.17.8 
 3. Niesobski, Sudety16.7 
 4. Kostrzewski, Start16.2 
 5. Jarecki, P.Cuk.15.3 
 6. Mazur, Polonia14.8 
 7. Donigiewicz, Rosa14.3 
 8. Lewandowski, P.Cuk.14.0 
 9. Pluta, MOSiR K.13.6 
 10. Zytko, P..13.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Krzysztof MIELCZAREK
  AZS S.
  (198-G/F-81)
  Avg: 11.8
 1. Mielczarek, AZS S.11.8 
 2. Luszczewski, Start9.8 
 3. Wilczek, Sokol Lan.9.4 
 4. Mikolajko, Polonia7.9 
 5. Wilusz, Sudety7.1 
 6. Malewski, Znicz B.7.0 
 7. Grudzinski, Spojnia7.0 
 8. Misiewicz, Znicz B.7.0 
 9. Radke, Rosa Radom6.9 
 10. Klima, Sokol Lanc.6.8 
Assists Per Game
 Grzegorz GROCHOWSKI
  MKS D.
  (178-PG-93)
  Avg: 5.6
 1. Grochowski, MKS D.5.6 
 2. Musijowski, Polonia5.5 
 3. Basinski, SKK S.4.9 
 4. Zytko, P..4.6 
 5. Ochonko, Spojnia4.1 
 6. Michalski, Start L.4.1 
 7. Brek, AZS Kutno3.9 
 8. Kardas, Rosa Radom3.9 
 9. Wojcicki, SKK S.3.6 
 10. Szumelda-K., Znic.3.4 
Steals Per Game
 Lukasz ZYTKO
  P..
  (181-G-81)
  Avg: 3.5
 1. Zytko, P..3.5 
 2. Mielczarek, AZS S.3.1 
 3. Szumelda-K., Znicz3.0 
 4. Niesobski, Sudety2.9 
 5. Lewandowski, P.Cuk.2.8 
 6. Sulinski, Znicz B.2.6 
 7. Szpyrka, Start G.2.5 
 8. Pisarczyk, Sokol L.2.5 
 9. Basinski, SKK S.2.5 
 10. Szurlej, Sokol L.2.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Artur DONIGIEWICZ
  Rosa R.
  (185-G-84)
  Avg: 2
 1. Donigiewicz, Rosa2.0 
 2. Klima, Sokol Lancut1.8 
 3. Niesobski, Sudety1.8 
 4. Zytko, P..1.8 
 5. Oczkowicz, MOSiR K.1.7 
 6. Malecki, AZS Kutno1.6 
 7. Wojdyla, Start G.1.6 
 8. Wojcicki, SKK S.1.6 
 9. Aleksandrowi., Sta.1.6 
 10. Grochowski, MKS D.1.6 


Szymon Szewczyk selected the top Polish players playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

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

Szymon Szewczyk
Szymon Szewczyk
   #1. This week's number one is an international center Szymon Szewczyk (209-82), who plays in the Italian SerieA. He could not help Umana Venezia (17-14) in their last game. Despite Szewczyk's very good performance Umana Venezia lost 74-81 on the road to the higher-ranked (#4) Banco di Sardegna Sassari. He was the top scorer with 25 points. Szewczyk also added 8 rebounds in 34 minutes on the court. It was Umana Venezia's third consecutive loss in a row. His team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And that game will be critical. Szewczyk is currently third on the league's list of best blockers with 1.3bpg. He also averaged so far 12.8ppg, 5.9rpg, 1.1apg, 2FGP: 61.8%(105-170), 3FGP: 42.3% and FT: 81.0% in the 31 games he played so far. Szewczyk is currently a member of the Polish senior national team.

Maciej Lampe
Maciej Lampe
   #2. Second place goes to an international center Maciej Lampe (210-85), who plays in the Spanish ACB. He was not able to help Caja Laboral (22-11) in their last game on Sunday. Despite Lampe's good performance Caja Laboral was edged 68-66 at home by the lower-ranked FIATC Joventut (#9). He was the second best scorer with 13 points. Lampe also added 7 rebounds. His team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And now that game is very crucial. It's Lampe's first season with the team. Lampe has relatively good stats this year: 12.2ppg, 4.8rpg, 2FGP: 55.2%(64-116), 3FGP: 31.3% and FT: 64.0%. He has a dual citizenship: Polish and Swedish. Despite Lampe played previously for the Swedish national team, he is currently a member of the Polish senior national team.

David Logan
David Logan
   #3. The Polish player who performed third best last week abroad was former international guard David Logan (184-82, college: Indianapolis), who plays in the Greek A1. Logan was not able to secure a victory for Panathinaikos (22-2) in their last game. Despite his good performance Panathinaikos lost 68-73 in Rodou to the lower-ranked (#3) Kolossos. Logan was the second best scorer with 11 points in 22 minutes. This year Logan averages: 9.7ppg, 1.4rpg, 1.4apg, 1.5spg, 2FGP: 50.8%, 3FGP: 37.6% and FT: 82.0% in the 29 games. He is a naturalized American. Despite Logan played previously for the USA national team, he played also for the Polish national team in 2009. Logan used to play for WTK Anwil Wloclawek in Polish league.

Michal Ignerski
Michal Ignerski
   #4. Forward Michal Ignerski (207-80, agency: Stanley International, college: Mississippi St.) couldn't help Lokomotiv (9-9) in their game against CSKA Moscow (17-1) in the Russian PBL. Despite his good performance in Friday night's game He recorded 10 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. Ignerski's overall stats this season are: 6.4ppg and 3.3rpg. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Ignerski is currently in the Polish national team roster.

Gal Mekel
Gal Mekel
   #5. International point guard Gal Mekel (192-88, college: Wichita St.) contributed to a Benetton Treviso's victory against the seventh-ranked Umana Venezia (17-14) 72-61 in the Italian SerieA last Sunday. He scored 6 points, grabbed 5 rebounds and dished 9 assists in 22 minutes. Benetton Treviso (13-18) is placed 11th in the SerieA. Mekel's team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And now that game is quite important. Mekel is currently seventh on the list of best passers with 3.6apg. This year he also averages: 6.2ppg and 2.2rpg in the 21 games. Mekel is another player who holds two passports: Israeli and Polish. Despite he played previously for the Israeli national team, Mekel is currently in the Polish national team roster.

Bradd Wierzbicki
Bradd Wierzbicki
   #6. Guard Bradd Wierzbicki (191-85, college: Queens, NY) was the major contributor in a Jelson Homes DMU Leicester City Riders' victory against the seventh-ranked Sheffield One Health Sharks (13-17) 92-76 in the British BBL on Friday night. He recorded 19 points. Jelson Homes DMU Leicester City Riders (22-8) is placed second in the BBL. Wierzbicki has individually a very good season with high stats. He averages: 17.0ppg, 2.5rpg, 2.9apg and 1.1spg. Wierzbicki is a naturalized American. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Wierzbicki is also an international player who is currently on the senior Polish National Team roster.

Robert Tomaszek
Robert Tomaszek
   #7. Former international forward Robert Tomaszek (204-81, agency: Limelight Hoops, college: Texas Tech) couldn't help s Oliver Baskets (20-14) in their game against ratiopharm Ulm (27-7) in the German BBL. He cannot count it as his best performance. Tomaszek recorded only 1 points in 8 minutes on the court. s Oliver Baskets was crushed 91-65 in Ulm by the second-ranked ratiopharm. His team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And now that game is extremely important. This year Tomaszek's overall stats are: 3.1ppg and 2.4rpg in the 34 games. He used to play for the Polish national team eight years ago.

Other top Polish players, who play abroad:

Thomas Kelati (195-G/F-82) plays for Khimky in Russian PBL
Marcin Gortat (213-C-84) plays for Phoenix Suns in the NBA
Vitaliy Kovalenko (203-F-84) plays for BC Donetsk in Ukrainian Superleague
Chris Thomas (186-PG-82) plays for Galil Gilboa in Israeli Premier League
Jakub Parzenski (212-F/C-91) plays for CS Bologna in Italian SerieA
Sandro Listwon (202-F/C-93) plays for Banca Tercas in Italian SerieA
Jakub Wojciechowski (213-C/F-90) plays for Enel Brindisi in Italian Lega2
Anatoliy Shundel (190-PG-93) plays for Mykolaiv in Ukrainian Superleague

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



1Liga Round 3 of Semi-Finals - by Eurobasket News

MKS DG - Rosa Radom 61-65

MMKS Dabrowa Gornicza was ahead by 3 points after three quarters before a 17-10 charge of Rosa Radom, which allowed them to win the game. They also forced 22 MMKS Dabrowa Gornicza turnovers and outrebounded them 46-30 including 16 on the offensive glass. It was an exceptional evening for Marcin Kosinski who led the winners and scored 13 points and 8 rebounds. Guard Artur Donigiewicz (185-84) accounted for 15 points and 6 rebounds for the winning side. Forward Michal Woloszyn (202-84) came up with 15 points and center Piotr Zielinski (198-83) added 13 points and 6 rebounds respectively for MMKS Dabrowa Gornicza in the defeat.
Top scorers:
MKS DG: M.Woloszyn 15+3reb+3ast, P.Zielinski 13+6reb+2ast, L.Szczypka 9+1reb+2ast, L.Grzegorzewski 9+6reb+1ast, G.Grochowski 8+3reb+5ast, P.Zmarlak 5+5reb+2ast
Rosa Radom: P.Kardas 16+3reb+1ast, A.Donigiewicz 15+6reb+1ast, M.Kosinski 13+8reb+2ast, H.Radke 7+11reb+1ast, M.Maj 4+3reb+1ast, J.Zalewski 4+5reb+1ast
gschID: 175609


Znicz Basket - Start Gdynia 93-85

Start Gdynia trailed by 16 points after 3 quarters before a 37-29 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 85-93 at the end of the game. MKS Znicz Basket made 24-of-31 free shots (77.4 percent) during the game. They also forced 24 Start Gdynia turnovers. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when MKS Znicz Basket made 7 blocks. It was a great evening for guard Adrian Sulinski (185-85) who led his team to a victory scoring 23 points and 5 rebounds. Forward Przemyslaw Szymanski (198-84) helped adding 10 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. The best for the losing side was forward Tomasz Wojdyla (201-77) with 18 points and 6 rebounds and guard Marcin Malczyk (193-82) scored 15 points and 4 assists. Four MKS Znicz Basket and five Start Gdynia players scored in double figures. Start Gdynia's coach Pawel Turkiewicz rotated eleven players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
Start Gdynia: T.Wojdyla 18+6reb+1ast, M.Malczyk 15+4reb+4ast, K.Krajniewski 14+1reb, M.Kostrzewski 13+5reb+1ast, G.Mordzak 12+2reb+2ast, K.Szpyrka 11+2reb+3ast
Znicz Basket: A.Sulinski 23+5reb+2ast, M.Szumelda-Krzycki 13+1reb+2ast, D.Czubek 12+1reb+1ast, A.Czujkowski 11+7reb+2ast, P.Szymanski 10+7reb+5ast, L.Bonarek 9+3reb
gschID: 175608



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

Stats Leaders - UZO Liga

Points Per Game
 Nate BOWIE
  Terceira.
  (183-G-86)
  Avg: 19.1
 1. Bowie, Terceira.19.1 
 2. Murphy, Terceira.18.6 
 3. Addison, Sampaense18.2 
 4. Stempin, Porto F.17.6 
 5. Scott, Benfica17.1 
 6. Nevels, Terceira.16.9 
 7. Franklin, Lusitania16.8 
 8. Morris, Vitoria SC16.5 
 9. Balseiro, Sampa.15.5 
 10. Oruche, Academica15.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Brian MORRIS
  Vitoria SC
  (205-F-87)
  Avg: 11
 1. Morris, Vitoria SC11.0 
 2. Lee, Ovarense9.9 
 3. Nevels, Terceira.9.6 
 4. Fonseca, Vitoria SC9.2 
 5. Addison, Sampaense8.3 
 6. Djukic, Ginasio8.2 
 7. Gunter, CAB M.7.9 
 8. Momplasir, Lusitan.7.9 
 9. Cunha, Vitoria SC7.9 
 10. Stempin, Porto F.7.6 
Assists Per Game
 Mario FERNANDES
  CAB M.
  (176-PG-82)
  Avg: 6.5
 1. Fernandes, CAB M.6.5 
 2. Sing, Sampaense5.9 
 3. Blanks, Vitoria SC5.4 
 4. Reveles, Sampaense5.3 
 5. Barbosa, Ovarense4.5 
 6. Ferreira, Ginasio4.4 
 7. Bowie, Terceira.4.1 
 8. Fechas, Barcelos4.1 
 9. Manarte, Ovarense4.1 
 10. Minhava, Benfica3.8 
Steals Per Game
 Jaime SILVA
  CAB Madeira
  (187-PG-80)
  Avg: 3.2
 1. Silva, CAB Madeira3.2 
 2. Fernandes, CAB M.2.3 
 3. Balseiro, Sampa.2.3 
 4. Cunha, Vitoria SC2.0 
 5. Kenon, CAB Madeira1.9 
 6. Andrade, Porto F.1.9 
 7. Silva, Barcelos1.8 
 8. Bessa, Vitoria SC1.8 
 9. Jackson, CAB M.1.8 
 10. Franklin, Lusitan.1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Durrell NEVELS
  Terceira.
  (198-F-86)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Nevels, Terceira.2.8 
 2. Momplasir, Lusitan.1.9 
 3. Johnson, Porto F.1.2 
 4. Gunter, CAB M.1.0 
 5. Silva, Barcelos1.0 
 6. Addison, Sampaense0.8 
 7. Ehiagwina, Ginasio0.8 
 8. Doliboa, Benfica0.8 
 9. Coelho, CAB M.0.8 
 10. Howell, Academica0.7 


LPB Round 3 of Semi-Finals - by Eurobasket News

Lusitania - Benfica 60-84 (1-2)

Benfica took 2-1 Semifinal lead. It was a good game for American forward Seth Doliboa (203-80, college: Wright St., agency: Hart Sports Mngm) who led his team to a victory with 18 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field). The former international forward Joao Gomes (199-85) contributed with 10 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Benfica's coach Carlos Lisboa felt very confident that he used 11 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Guard Augusto Sobrinho (188-85) answered with 21 points and American center Marcel Momplasir (205-81, college: Rhode Island) added 11 points and 9 rebounds in the effort for Lusitania.
Top scorers:
Lusitania: A.Sobrinho 21+3reb+2ast, R.Franklin 13+2reb+2ast, M.Momplasir 11+9reb, M.Camara 7+6reb+1ast, B.Mills 5+10reb, M.Freitas 3+1reb+1ast
Benfica: S.Doliboa 18+9reb+5ast, A.Monteiro 12+1reb, J.Gomes 10+6reb+1ast, T.Barroso 9+2reb+2ast, F.Gentry 8+7reb+1ast, H.Evans 8
gschID: 175562



Petro De Luanda Sack Coach Alberto Babo - by Eurobasket News

Luanda The Portuguese Alberto Babo was sacked as the coach of the senior males basketball team of Petro de Luanda, Angop learnt on Wednesday from an official source.

According to the source, the players were only informed about the coach's dismissal on Wednesday morning before the training session.

Angop learnt that the assistant coach Manuel da Silva will be the caretaker of the team until the end of the season.

Petro de Luanda occupy the third position in the national championship with 5 points in a competition led by 1 de Agosto with seven points.

Courtesy of: Angola Press



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

Standings - BSN

BSN Standings
 1. Mayaguez 22-8 
 2. Quebradillas 18-12 
 3. Bayamon 18-12 
 4. Arecibo 17-13 
 5. San German 15-15 
 6. Guaynabo 13-17 
 7. Humacao 9-21 
 8. Guayama 8-22 

Regular Season: Round 29

May. 4: Guayama - Guaynabo 94-101
May. 3: Bayamon - Humacao 87-85
May. 3: Arecibo - Mayaguez 83-89
May. 4: San German - Quebradillas 62-95


Stats Leaders - BSN

Points Per Game
 Al THORNTON
  Guayama
  (203-F-83)
  Avg: 25.3
 1. Thornton, Guayama25.3 
 2. Harris, San German21.2 
 3. Sensley, Humacao19.7 
 4. Dalmau, Bayamon19.0 
 5. Ramos, Quebradillas18.4 
 6. Ayuso, Arecibo18.1 
 7. Brown, Humacao18.0 
 8. Vassallo, Guaynabo16.4 
 9. Powell, Guayama16.1 
 10. Smith, Mayaguez15.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Mike HARRIS
  San German
  (198-F-83)
  Avg: 10.2
 1. Harris, San German10.2 
 2. Ramos, Quebradillas9.3 
 3. Powell, Guayama9.2 
 4. Thornton, Guayama9.2 
 5. Sensley, Humacao9.0 
 6. Sweetney, Bayamon8.5 
 7. Burgess, Guaynabo8.4 
 8. Shannon, Quebradil.8.1 
 9. O''Bryant, Mayaguez8.1 
 10. Pinkney, San G.7.2 
Assists Per Game
 Filiberto RIVERA
  San German
  (190-PG-82)
  Avg: 5.7
 1. Rivera, San German5.7 
 2. Smith, Mayaguez5.7 
 3. Guzman, Guaynabo5.7 
 4. Garcia, Humacao5.2 
 5. Pinnock, Arecibo5.2 
 6. Pagan, Guayama5.0 
 7. Butler, Quebradill.4.8 
 8. Dalmau, Bayamon3.9 
 9. Brown, Humacao3.4 
 10. Cruz, Quebradillas3.2 
Steals Per Game
 Donta SMITH
  Mayaguez
  (201-G-83)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Smith, Mayaguez2.3 
 2. Mojica, Bayamon1.7 
 3. Pinnock, Arecibo1.7 
 4. Rivera, San German1.3 
 5. Sensley, Humacao1.3 
 6. Figueroa, Guaynabo1.3 
 7. Thornton, Guayama1.3 
 8. Cotto, Mayaguez1.3 
 9. Dalmau, Bayamon1.3 
 10. Ramirez, Mayaguez1.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Mamadou LAMIZANA
  Bayamon
  (207-F/C-81)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Lamizana, Bayamon2.4 
 2. Penn, Humacao1.8 
 3. O''Bryant, Mayaguez1.8 
 4. Shannon, Quebradil.1.6 
 5. Thornton, Guayama1.6 
 6. Aubry, Arecibo1.4 
 7. Burgess, Guaynabo1.4 
 8. Powell, Guayama1.3 
 9. Ramos, Quebradillas1.3 
 10. Harris, San German1.0 


Rodriguez to join Capitanes - by Marcos Carlo

Capitanes de Arecibo are getting more help at the point guard position as Andres Rodriguez (184-PG-81, college: American) arrives on Monday.

Rodriguez is playing in Spain for Blusens Monbus in ACB and averages 3.8 points and 3.9 assists.

His last game in Spain will be tomorrow and arrives to Puerto Rico on Monday and inmediately joins Capitanes.

He will make his 2012 BSN debut on Tuesday as Capitanes host Indios.

Rodriguez was a key component in the 2011 Capitanes championship team. Also he did a great job for the Puerto Rican national team last Summer.



BSN season ends with wins for Guaynabo and Quebradillas: - by Luis Modestti

Mets de Guaynabo and Piratas de Quebradillas ended the 2012 BSN season with wins.

Mets defeated Brujos de Guayama 101-94. Will McDonald (211-C-79, college: S.Florida) made his debut with 29 points and 10 rebounds. Ansel Guzman added 24 and Angel Alamo 22 for the winners.

Jesus Verdejo netted 32 for Brujos and Tomas Vazquez added 17.

Piratas de Quebradillas dominated Atleticos de San German 95-62. David Huertas led the way with 26 points.

Quebradillas finished in second place with an 18-12 record.

The playoffs start Sunday as Guaynabo visits Mayaguez, San German goes to Quebradillas and Arecibo plays at Bayamon.



San German signs Scales: - by Luis Modestti

Atleticos de San German announced the signing of guard Alex Scales (192-G-78, college: Oregon). He should make his debut for the playoffs that start on Sunday.

He comes for Willie Warren who never showed up. Scales played for Mersin in Turkey and averaged 17.4 points and 3.4 rebounds in 16 games. He has a lot of experience in top leagues in European basketball including ACB, Russia and Greece.

San German finished the season with a 15-15 record but are still one of the favorites to be in the semifinals. Their other imports for this stage are Mike Harris and Jose Jaime Lloreda.



Carlos Arroyo selected the top Puerto Rican playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

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

Carlos Arroyo
Carlos Arroyo
   #1. This week's number one is an experienced international guard Carlos Arroyo (188-79, college: FIU). He led his Turkish team Besiktas to a victory against the leader Chalon/Saor (3-3) 91-86 in the EuroChallenge in Sunday night's game. Arroyo recorded 15 points and added 8 assists in 36 minutes on the court. It was the game of the round between two top 2 ranked teams in group K. Besiktas Milangaz Istanbul (4-2) is placed second. Arroyo has relatively good stats this year: 10.7ppg, 2.0rpg, 3.6apg, 2FGP: 35.7%, 3FGP: 30.8% and FT: 75.9% in the nine games he played so far. He is currently a member of the Puerto Rican senior national team.

Walter Hodge
Walter Hodge
   #2. Second place goes to an international point guard Walter Hodge (183-86, college: Florida). Hodge led Zastal ZG to a 2-point victory over the fifth-ranked Energa Czarni (3-7) 75-73 in the Polish PLK last Wednesday. He was MVP of the game. Hodge scored 24 points, made 4 passes and 3 steals; quite an impressive performance considering it's only his third season in pro basketball. Zastal Zielona Gora (6-4) is placed third in Group A. Hodge is the league's top scorer and also on the list of best passers (third place). He has individually a very good season with high stats. Hodge averages: 19.0ppg, 2.8rpg, 5.9apg, 1.4spg, 2FGP: 48.6%, 3FGP: 30.9% and FT: 86.4%. He has a dual citizenship: Ivorian and Puerto Rican. Despite Hodge played previously for the Ivorian national team, he is currently a member of the Puerto Rican senior national team.

Nathan Peavy
Nathan Peavy
   #3. The Puerto Rican player who performed third best last week abroad was former international forward Nathan Peavy (203-85, college: Miami, OH). Peavy contributed to an Artland Dragons' victory against the 12th-ranked Walter Tigers (15-19) 85-74 in the German BBL on Saturday night. He recorded 11 points, 8 rebounds, 3 assists and made 4 blocks (made all of his five free throws) in 32 minutes. Artland Dragons Quakenbrueck (24-10) is placed fourth in the BBL. It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row. They will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And that game will be critical. Peavy is currently eighth on the list of top scorers with 14.6ppg. This year his other stats are: 6.3rpg, 1.8apg, 2FGP: 58.3%(112-192), 3FGP: 45.2%(38-84) and FT: 75.1% in the 32 games. Peavy is another player who holds two passports: Puerto Rican and American. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Peavy played also for the Puerto Rican national team in 2010. He used to play for Vaqueros de Bayamon in Puerto Rican league.

Paul Graham
Paul Graham
   #4. Guard Paul Graham (196-85, college: Florida Atlantic) led Slask Wroclaw to a victory over the second-ranked Trefl Sopot (6-4) 76-71 in the Polish PLK in Saturday night's game. Graham was the best player in that game. He scored 16 points and added 3 assists; not bad, considering it's only Graham's third season in pro basketball. It was the game of the round between two top 3 ranked teams in Group B. WKS Slask Wroclaw (25-13) is placed first. It was his team's fifth consecutive victory in a row. This season Graham has relatively solid stats: 14.1ppg, 2.6rpg, 2.8apg and 1.2spg. He has both American and Puerto Rican nationalities. Despite Graham played previously for the USA national team, he is currently in the Puerto Rican national team roster. Graham used to play for Indios de Mayaguez in Puerto Rican league.

Darnell Hinson
Darnell Hinson
   #5. Former international point guard Darnell Hinson (186-80, college: Northeastern St.) faced previously mentioned Walter Hodge in the Polish PLK last game. Hinson, who plays in the Polish PLK could not help Energa Czarni (3-7) in their last game. Despite his good performance the fifth-placed Energa Czarni was edged 75-73 on the road by the higher-ranked (#3) Zastal ZG in the Group A. Hinson scored 10 points and grabbed 7 rebounds in 31 minutes. It was Energa Czarni's seventh consecutive loss in a row. Hinson has reliable stats this year: 11.9ppg, 2.9rpg and 1.8apg in the 37 games. He also holds two passports: Puerto Rican and American. Despite Hinson played previously for the USA national team, he is currently in the Puerto Rican national team roster. Hinson used to play for Grises de Humacao in Puerto Rican league.

Guillermo Diaz
Guillermo Diaz
   #6. Shooting guard Guillermo Diaz (188-85, college: Miami, FL) contributed to an easy victory against the eighth-ranked Samedicino-Academia (7-13) crushing them 100-70 in a derby game in the Georgian Superleague on Thursday night. He recorded 11 points. BC Armia Tbilisi (20-0) is placed first in the Superleague. So far his team won all twenty games in the Quarter-Finals. Diaz's stats this season are: 12.4ppg, 3.4rpg, 2.4apg and 1.9spg. Despite he played previously for the USA national team, Diaz is also a former international player as he played for the Puerto Rican senior team two years ago.

Andres Rodriguez
Andres Rodriguez
   #7. International point guard Andres Rodriguez (184-81, college: American) was not able to help Blusens Monbus (12-21) in their game against Blancos de Rueda (8-25) in the Spanish ACB. He scored 5 points and added 9 passes in 31 minutes. Blusens Monbus lost 75-81 in Valladolid to the league outsider (#18) Blancos de Rueda. Rodriguez's team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And now that game is very crucial. It's Rodriguez's first season with the team. Rodriguez belongs to league's best passers and is ranked #4 with 3.9apg. He also averaged so far 3.8ppg, 2.0rpg and 1.3spg in the 32 games. Rodriguez is also Puerto Rican national team player.

Rafael Perez
Rafael Perez
   #8. Swingman Rafael Perez (193-82, agency: Paris Global Sports) contributed to Trotamundos' victory against the leader Marinos (4-2) 90-83 in the Venezuelan LPB last Monday. He scored 12 points. It was the game of the round between two top 3 ranked teams in Group A. Trotamundos de Carabobo (2-2) is placed second. There are only four games left until the end of the Second Stage. So now every game will be important. This season Perez has very high stats. He averages: 15.5ppg, 2.2rpg, 1.8apg and 2.0spg. Despite Perez played previously for the Venezuelan national team, he is currently in the Puerto Rican national team roster.

Other top Puerto Rican players, who play abroad:

Alfred Lee (185-G-56) plays for Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA
Renaldo Balkman (201-F-84) plays for New York Knicks in the NBA
Jose Juan Barea (181-PG-84) plays for Minnesota Timberwolves in the NBA
TreVon Hughes (183-PG-87) plays for Pieno Zvaigzdes in Lithuanian LKL
Denis Clemente (185-PG-86) plays for Nitra in Slovakian Extraliga
Angel Caballero (192-G-70) plays for Palencia Baloncesto in Spanish LEB Gold
Angel Garcia (209-C/F-88) plays for CB Granada in Spanish LEB Gold

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



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

Stats Leaders - Men

Points Per Game
 Jaytonah WISSEH
  CSU Sibiu
  (185-G-88)
  Avg: 23.5
 1. Wisseh, CSU Sibiu23.5 
 2. Durham, Dinamo B.23.3 
 3. Martinic, CSM B.23.0 
 4. Krstanovic, U.Mobi.20.9 
 5. Dykes, U.Mobite.19.9 
 6. Mitchell, Gaz Metan19.0 
 7. Sims, Giurgiu18.3 
 8. Ross, Craiova18.0 
 9. Gallimore, CSM B.17.9 
 10. Haymon, Dinamo B.17.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Allen DURHAM
  Dinamo B.
  (198-F-88)
  Avg: 13.7
 1. Durham, Dinamo B.13.7 
 2. Kinloch, Pitesti9.3 
 3. Carutasu, CSM B.8.6 
 4. McKenzie, CSM B.8.6 
 5. Krstanovic, U.Mobi.8.4 
 6. Dies, Perla Harghi.8.4 
 7. Steffel, Rovinari8.3 
 8. Nicoara, Gaz Metan8.2 
 9. Riley, CSU Sibiu8.1 
 10. Vlaicu, Giurgiu7.7 
Assists Per Game
 Jaytonah WISSEH
  CSU Sibiu
  (185-G-88)
  Avg: 7.3
 1. Wisseh, CSU Sibiu7.3 
 2. Cooley, Targu M.6.2 
 3. Maric, Oradea6.1 
 4. Vlahovic, Ploiesti5.5 
 5. Sims, Giurgiu5.5 
 6. Nikolic, Rovinari5.4 
 7. Howell, Gaz Metan5.3 
 8. Martinic, CSM B.5.3 
 9. Long, Perla Harghi.5.0 
 10. Jovanovic, Timiso.4.9 
Steals Per Game
 Jaytonah WISSEH
  CSU Sibiu
  (185-G-88)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Wisseh, CSU Sibiu2.9 
 2. Cooley, Targu M.2.6 
 3. Howell, Gaz Metan2.1 
 4. Tucker, Perla H.2.1 
 5. Hargrove, Ploiesti1.9 
 6. Mitchell, Gaz Metan1.9 
 7. Dykes, U.Mobite.1.9 
 8. Hurjui, Politehnica1.8 
 9. Archie, Timisoara1.8 
 10. Nicolae, Politehn.1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Kaylone RILEY
  CSU Sibiu
  (203-C-88)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Riley, CSU Sibiu1.8 
 2. Tibirna, Otopeni1.7 
 3. McKenzie, CSM B.1.7 
 4. Dies, Perla Harghi.1.5 
 5. Kinloch, Pitesti1.4 
 6. Mijovic, U.Mobite.1.1 
 7. Durham, Dinamo B.1.1 
 8. Archie, Timisoara1.1 
 9. Dragusin, Gaz M.0.9 
 10. McCulloch, Dinamo0.9 


Timisoara and Ploiesti advanced to the Big Final - by Eurobasket News

U.Mobitel.CN - Timisoara 65-70 (0-3)

The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But U-Mobitelco won fourth quarter 19-17. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Timisoara made 17-of-18 charity shots (94.4 percent) during the game. It was a great evening for American forward Dominique Archie (200-87, college: S.Carolina) who led his team to a victory scoring 11 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists. Serbian-German forward Robert Sarovic (205-78) helped adding 12 points and 11 rebounds. Four Timisoara players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was Serbian center Zoran Krstanovic (204-82) with 22 points and 6 rebounds and American Kyndall Dykes (190-87, college: New Orleans, agency: Edge Sports) scored 13 points and 5 rebounds.
Top scorers:
U.Mobitel.CN: Z.Krstanovic 22+6reb+1ast, K.Dykes 13+5reb+2ast, M.Paul 10+4reb+2ast, J.LaGrange 7+6reb+3ast, M.Silvasan 7+1reb+1ast, V.Mijovic 4+6reb+2ast
Timisoara: D.Andrei 17+2reb, B.Popescu 14+2reb+2ast, R.Sarovic 12+11reb+3ast, D.Archie 11+8reb+7ast, Z.Jovanovic 9+2reb+2ast, I.Siriscevic 5+1reb
gschID: 175814


Ploiesti - Gaz Metan 96-88 (3-0)

30 personal fouls committed by Gaz Metan helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was a good game for the former international center Catalin Burlacu (210-77, agency: Court Side) who led his team to a victory with 18 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists. Serbian guard Aleksandar Vlahovic (190-90) contributed with 22 points and 7 assists for the winners. Five Ploiesti players scored in double figures. American forward Deven Mitchell (197-84, agency: Interperformances) answered with 26 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists and the former international guard Tudor Dumitrescu (195-79) added 17 points (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field) in the effort for Gaz Metan.
Top scorers:
Gaz Metan: D.Mitchell 26+6reb+4ast, T.Dumitrescu 17+4reb, I.Zigeranovic 14+6reb, I.Ivanovic 9+5reb, T.Nicoara 9+4reb+2ast, I.Tomeljak 7+3reb+5ast
Ploiesti: A.Vlahovic 22+2reb+7ast, C.Burlacu 18+9reb+4ast, A.Santana 15+3reb+2ast, A.Cepulis 14+4reb, V.Tica 11+4reb, A.Capusan 8+3reb+1ast
gschID: 175815



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

Stats Leaders - Superleague A

Points Per Game
 Davon JEFFERSON
  Triumph
  (204-F-86)
  Avg: 20.4
 1. Jefferson, Triumph20.4 
 2. Rush, Krasnie Kril.16.2 
 3. Beverley, Spart.15.8 
 4. Thomas, Spartak-.15.3 
 5. McKee, Triumph15.2 
 6. Massey, Lokomotiv14.6 
 7. Fridzon, Khimky14.5 
 8. Planinic, Khimky13.4 
 9. Victor, Spartak-.13.3 
 10. Labovic, Krasnie13.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jeremiah MASSEY
  Lokomotiv
  (202-F-82)
  Avg: 8.1
 1. Massey, Lokomotiv8.1 
 2. Victor, Spartak-.7.8 
 3. Jefferson, Triumph7.4 
 4. Landry, Triumph6.3 
 5. Kirilenko, CSKA6.2 
 6. Beverley, Spart.6.1 
 7. Veremeenko, Unics6.0 
 8. Baxter, Enisey6.0 
 9. Khryapa, CSKA5.8 
 10. Monya, Khimky5.8 
Assists Per Game
 Aaron MILES
  Krasnie Krilya
  (186-G-83)
  Avg: 5.9
 1. Miles, Krasnie Kri.5.9 
 2. Teodosic, CSKA5.4 
 3. Beverley, Spart.4.9 
 4. Thomas, Spartak-.4.7 
 5. Samoylenko, Unics4.7 
 6. Halperin, Spart.4.6 
 7. Planinic, Khimky4.4 
 8. McKee, Triumph4.2 
 9. Rush, Krasnie Kril.3.4 
 10. Khryapa, CSKA3.3 
Steals Per Game
 Patrick BEVERLEY
  Spart.
  (185-PG-88)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Beverley, Spart.2.3 
 2. Massey, Lokomotiv2.2 
 3. Baburin, Spartak-.2.1 
 4. Thomas, Spartak-.2.1 
 5. Halperin, Spart.1.7 
 6. Planinic, Khimky1.5 
 7. Lyday, Unics1.5 
 8. Rush, Krasnie Kril.1.5 
 9. Jefferson, Triumph1.5 
 10. Khryapa, CSKA1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Andrei KIRILENKO
  CSKA
  (205-F-81)
  Avg: 1.1
 1. Kirilenko, CSKA1.1 
 2. Jefferson, Triumph1.1 
 3. Lavrinovic, CSKA0.9 
 4. Likhodey, Spart.0.9 
 5. Kikanovic, Enisey0.8 
 6. Savenkov, Spartak.0.8 
 7. Traore, Lokomotiv0.8 
 8. Vasiliev, Krasni.0.8 
 9. Baxter, Enisey0.7 
 10. Monya, Khimky0.6 


Aleksandr Fomin selected the top Russian playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

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

Aleksandr Fomin
Aleksandr Fomin
   #1. This week's number one is University international forward Aleksandr Fomin (207-86, agency: Interperformances). He led Minsk-2006 to a victory over the second-ranked Grodno-93 (25-5) crushing them 106-63 in the Belarusian Premier League in Friday night's game. Fomin was MVP of the game. He scored 19 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in 22 minutes on the court. It was the game of the round between two top 3 ranked teams in group Championship. BK Minsk-2006 (29-1) is placed first. It was his team's sixth consecutive victory in a row. They will play only one more game in the Second Stage. And that game will be critical. Fomin has relatively good stats this year: 11.0ppg, 3.8rpg, 2FGP: 58.5%(55-94), 3FGP: 14.3% and FT: 80.8% in the 13 games he played so far. He is currently a member of the Russian university national team.

Raul Lopez
Raul Lopez
   #2. Second place goes to an international guard Raul Lopez (183-80), who plays in the Spanish ACB. Lopez could not help Gescrap BB (19-14) to beat Unicaja Malaga (16-17). He scored 8 points. Gescrap BB was edged 83-80 at home by the much lower-ranked Unicaja Malaga (#11). Lopez's team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And now that game is very crucial. This season Lopez averages: 6.3ppg, 1.4rpg, 1.5apg, 2FGP: 51.0%, 3FGP: 43.2% and FT: 83.7%. He is in the roster of the Russian senior national team.

Timofey Mozgov
Timofey Mozgov
   #3. The Russian player who performed third best last week abroad was an international center Timofey Mozgov (216-86, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav). Mozgov was not able to help the Denver Nuggets (38-28) in their game against the Los Angeles Lakers (41-25) in the NBA. He scored 6 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in only 11 minutes. The Denver Nuggets lost 100-104 on the road to the Lakers. It's Mozgov's first season with the team. This year Mozgov's overall stats are: 5.3ppg, 4.1rpg, 2FGP: 51.7% and FT: 67.2% in the 47 games. Former BC Khimky Moscow starter played for the Russian national team years ago.

Fedor Dmitriev
Fedor Dmitriev
   #4. Forward Fedor Dmitriev (205-84, agency: Alti Sport) was not able to secure a victory for Asseco Prokom (8-2) in their game against AZS Koszalin (22-16) in the Polish PLK. He recorded 7 points. The first-placed Asseco Prokom was defeated 87-72 in Koszalin by the second-ranked AZS Koszalin in the Group A. Dmitriev's total stats this season are: 4.3ppg and 1.7rpg. He used to play for the Russian national team back in 2006.

Igor Simin
Igor Simin
   #5. Former international guard Igor Simin (197-84) contributed to a Beer Yaakov's victory against the third-ranked Elitzur Yavne (18-8) 109-103 in the Israeli National League (second division) last Monday. Simin scored 13 points and added 4 passes in 29 minutes. It was the game of the round between two top 3 ranked teams in group Play-Off. Maccabi Beer Yaakov (20-6) is placed second. This year Simin has relatively solid stats: 10.7ppg, 3.3rpg, 2.1apg and 1.1spg in the 29 games. He has a dual citizenship: Russian and Israeli. Despite Simin played previously for the Israeli U21 national team, he is currently in the Russian national team roster.

Teymuraz Babunashvili
Teymuraz Babunashvili
   #6. Guard Teymuraz Babunashvili (185-90) managed to help Kutaisi Kutaisi to win against the seventh-ranked TSU (8-12) crushing them 85-55 in the Georgian Superleague on Thursday night. Babunashvili recorded 5 points and added 4 assists. Kutaisi Kutaisi (0-0) is placed in the Superleague. Babunashvili's total stats this season are: 8.6ppg, 3.5rpg and 3.0apg. He is a former U18 international player as he played for the Russian team four years ago.

Andrei Olbrecht
Andrei Olbrecht
   #7. An experienced former international swingman Andrei Olbrecht (202-71) helped SBK Osipovichi win their game against the third-ranked Sozh Gomel (3-21) crushing them 105-33 in the Belarusian Premier League in Friday night's game. Olbrecht scored 5 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in 16 minutes. It was the game of the round between two top 3 ranked teams in group Play-Out. SBK Osipovichi (14-16) is placed first. His team will play only one more game in the Second Stage. And now that game is quite important. Olbrecht is one of the most experienced players in a team as it's his eighth year in SBK Osipovichi's roster. This season Olbrecht's total stats are: 7.5ppg, 4.9rpg and 1.9apg in the 18 games. He used to play for the Russian national team four years ago.

Other top Russian players, who play abroad:

Lazaros Papadopoulos (210-C-80) plays for Olympiacos in Greek A1
Yaroslav Korolev (206-G/F-87) plays for Lagun Aro GBC in Spanish ACB
Stanislav Dikiy (201-F-88) plays for Ferro-ZNTU in Ukrainian Superleague
Kirill Kuznetsov (187-G-90) plays for Apollon in Cypriot Division A
Mikhail Omelchenko (200-F-88) plays for Apollon in Cypriot Division A
Aleksei Subbotin (209-C-72) plays for Grodno-93 in Belarusian Premier League
Nikita Barinov (200-F-91) plays for Naglis Palangos in Lithuanian LKL
Cyrille Makanda (195-G-80) plays for AEK in Cypriot Division A
Dmitri Minaev (209-C-67) plays for Jiangsu Dragons in Chinese CBA
Vladimir Abdrakhmanov (197-G-90) plays for DniproAzot in Ukrainian Superleague

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



Khimky advanced to the Finals - by Eurobasket News

Lokomotiv - CSKA 72-78 (0-2)

Lokomotiv trailed by 14 points at halftime and as many as 19 after three quarters before a 29-16 last quarter charge cut the deficit to 72-78 at the end of the game. CSKA Moscow dominated down low during the game scoring 50 of its points in the paint compared to Lokomotiv's 30. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. The former international forward Andrei Kirilenko (205-81) had a double-double by scoring 13 points and 11 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and Serbian center Nenad Krstic (213-83) chipped in 15 points and 8 rebounds during the contest. Four CSKA Moscow players scored in double figures. Forward Maksim Sheleketo (204-87) responded with 17 points and 8 rebounds and American swingman K.C. Rivers (196-87, college: Clemson) scored 18 points and 6 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games.
Top scorers:
Lokomotiv: K.Rivers 18+6reb+2ast, M.Sheleketo 17+8reb+1ast, A.Traore 12+9reb+1ast, V.Ilievski 8+1reb+2ast, M.Ignerski 6+3reb+1ast, R.Blakney 3+2ast
CSKA: J.Gordon 15+3reb, N.Krstic 15+8reb, A.Kirilenko 13+11reb+1ast, A.Shved 10+2reb+6ast, S.Kaun 6+3reb, D.Lavrinovic 6+3reb
gschID: 175797


Triumph - Khimky 82-87 (0-2)

The guests were already 15 points ahead after 3 quarters before a 24-14 Triumph Lyubertsy's run in the last quarter cut the lead to 87-82 at the end of the game. It was a great shooting night for Khimky especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 56.3 percentage. Croatian-Bosnian guard Zoran Planinic (199-82) notched 21 points and 7 rebounds to lead the effort and international guard Vitaly Fridzon (195-G-85, agency: Alti Sport) (195-85, agency: Alti Sport) supported him with 22 points. Five Khimky players scored in double figures. Khimky's coach Rimas Kurtinaitis allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. Even 23 points and 7 rebounds by American forward Davon Jefferson (204-86, college: USC) did not help to save the game for Triumph Lyubertsy. Guard Dmitry Kulagin (195-92) added 19 points and 6 rebounds for the hosts.
Top scorers:
Triumph: D.Jefferson 23+7reb+3ast, D.Kulagin 19+6reb+2ast, T.McKee 18+2reb+4ast, K.Landry 9+7reb+2ast, A.Kuzyakin 6+1reb+1ast, S.Karasev 5+1ast
Khimky: V.Fridzon 22+4reb+2ast, Z.Planinic 21+7reb+2ast, S.Monya 13+4reb+1ast, C.Quinn 10+2reb+3ast, K.Loncar 10+6reb+4ast, J.Adrien 6+3reb+2ast
gschID: 175800



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  RWANDA   


Under-18 Zone Five Hoops Tournament Returns - by Eurobasket News

One of the first assignments of the new basketball administration that will be voted into office on Sunday will be to organise the Zone Five U-18 qualifiers scheduled to take place later this year.

According to the interim president of the national basketball federation Albert Kayiranga, the country requested Fiba to host the competition but have yet to determine dates for the event.

'Fiba accepted our request to host the tournament and the sports ministry has pledged full support. But we are yet to determine the dates for the tournament,' Kayiranga told Times Sport.

The week long competition will attract eight teams which include Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Sudan, Ethiopia, Somalia and Burundi. The tourney will also feature a women's competition.

Rwanda finished in 6th position last time around despite being hosts but Innocent Karuhije, the technical director in the Basketball federation thinks Coach Nenad Amanovic and his team can get a top 2 position.

'Since Egypt has already qualified, there is no reason why we can't win the tournament. It is the only team that is superior to us,' Karuhije said.
Courtesy of: The New Times



*****************************************************
  SCOTLAND   


City of Edinburgh Kings SM won 2011/2012 season - by Eurobasket News

City of Edinburgh Kings SM won 2011/2012 season. In the Final game the team overcame Clark Eriksson Fury 89:69.
Kings storm into a 7-4 lead with a long 2 from Paddy Campbell, and a 2 and a 3 from Craig Reilly. Edgars later brought 10:7 for the winning side. Clark Eriksson Fury however stayed tough and closed the opening period at 16:16. Moreover they took 25:24 lead midway through the second frame, while Edgars Rekis nailed three for the score to 29:25. Both free throws scored by Edgars Rekis (200-F-84) on the back of a Falkirk technical and a long 2 from Kevin Anderson (189-G-81) saw score at 35:29. Another 3 from Craig Reilly (G) brought 40:33 at the half when the teams disappeared in the lockers.
Paddy Campbell (193-G/F-80) opened the scoring in the third quarter for 42-33 and then Lee took the score to 47:33. Kings managed to erupt with a 19-4 surge for a 59:37 advantage. An amazing quarter saw the Kings up 67:44 as they produced 37-11 in it. A lot of free throws from Falkirk saw the gap close to 75:59, but City of Edinburgh Kings SM was too good last night. They led the game to the victory and completed their domination.



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


Boniface Ndong selected the top Senegalese players playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

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

Boniface Ndong
Boniface Ndong
   #1. This week's number one is an experienced former international center Boniface Ndong (213-77). He contributed to a 3-point Regal FC Barcelona's victory against the closely-ranked Real Madrid (25-8) 86-83 in the Spanish ACB in Thursday night's game. Ndong scored 7 points, had 6 rebounds and made 5 blocks in 24 minutes on the court. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. Regal FC Barcelona (28-5) is placed first in the ACB. It was his team's ninth consecutive victory in a row. They will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And that game will be critical. This year Ndong averages: 9.7ppg, 6.4rpg, 2FGP: 62.1%(118-190) and FT: 63.6% in the 28 games he played so far. He played for the Senegalese senior national team three years ago.

Maleye N'Doye
Maleye N'Doye
   #2. Second place goes to an international forward Maleye N'Doye (203-80, college: Furman). N'Doye led Entente Orleans 45 to a victory over the closely-ranked Sluc Nancy (17-12) 83-73 in the French ProA last Saturday. He was MVP of the game. N'Doye recorded 21 points. Entente Orleans 45 (20-9) is placed third in the ProA. His team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And now that game is very crucial. N'Doye's overall stats this season are: 9.0ppg, 2.5rpg, 1.2apg, 2FGP: 55.3%(47-85) and FT: 82.4%. He is in the roster of the Senegalese senior national team.

Bamba Fall
Bamba Fall
   #3. The Senegalese player who performed third best last week abroad was former international center Bamba Fall (216-86, college: SMU). Fall contributed to a 1-point Kalev/Cramo's victory against the closely-ranked BC Rakvere (19-9) 66-65 in the Estonian KML on Friday night. He scored 11 points, grabbed 8 rebounds and made 2 blocks in 23 minutes. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. BC Kalev/Cramo Tallinn (23-5) is placed third in the KML. It's Fall's first season with the team. Fall is currently seventh on the list of best rebounders and also on the list of best blockers (first place). This year his overall stats are: 8.5ppg, 6.6rpg, 1.7bpg, 2FGP: 65.4%(70-107) and FT: 58.5% in the 22 games. Fall played for the Senegalese national team five years ago.

Hamady N'Diaye
Hamady N'Diaye
   #4. Center Hamady N'Diaye (213-87, college: Rutgers) was the main contributor in a Guangzhou Liu Sui Whampoa's victory against one of league's weakest teams Guangzhou FM (0-2) 105-90 in the Chinese NBL (second division) in Tuesday night's game. He was the best player in that game. N'Diaye recorded a double-double by scoring 22 points and getting 13 rebounds. He also added 3 blocks; quite an impressive performance considering it's only N'Diaye's second season in pro basketball. Guangzhou Liu Sui Whampoa (2-0) is placed first in the NBL. But this is still an early stage of the season and everything may happen. N'Diaye is currently ninth on the list of top scorers and also on the list of best rebounders (seventh place). He has individually a very good season with high stats. N'Diaye averages: 18.0ppg, 12.0rpg and 2.5bpg. He used to play for the Senegalese national team back in 2007.

Sitapha Savane
Sitapha Savane
   #5. Former international forward Sitapha Savane (202-78, college: Navy), who plays in the Spanish ACB could not help Gran Canaria 2014 (13-20) to beat Valencia Basket (19-14). Savane scored 8 points in 17 minutes. Gran Canaria 2014 lost 62-77 on the road to the much higher-ranked (#5) Valencia Basket. His team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And now that game is quite important. Savane has been at the team for eight years. This season Savane's total stats are: 4.9ppg and 2.4rpg in the 32 games. He has a dual citizenship: Senegalese and Spanish. Despite Savane played previously for the Spanish national team, he is currently in the Senegalese national team roster.

Ousmane Barro
Ousmane Barro
   #6. Power forward Ousmane Barro (207-84, college: Marquette), who plays in the French ProB (second division) was not able to help JL Bourg (15-18) in their last game on Saturday. Despite Barro's very good performance JL Bourg was edged in an overtime 92-91 in Antibes by the lower-ranked Olympique (#12). He scored 20 points, had 9 rebounds and made 2 blocks. Barro's team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And now that game is extremely important. Barro belongs to league's best rebounders and is ranked #7. He has very reliable stats this season: 14.9ppg, 8.5rpg, 1.3apg and 1.4spg. Despite Barro played previously for the Spanish national team, he is also a former U18 international player as he played for the Senegalese team ten years ago.

Michel Diouf
Michel Diouf
   #7. Former international center Michel Diouf (208-89) was not able to secure a victory for Baloncesto Fuenlabrada (12-21) in their game against Caja Laboral (22-11) in the Spanish ACB. Diouf scored 8 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in 15 minutes. Baloncesto Fuenlabrada lost 87-92 in Vitoria to the much higher-ranked (#3) Caja Laboral. His team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. Diouf has averaged so far 3.7ppg and 3.2rpg in the 14 games. Despite he played previously for the Spanish national team, Diouf is currently in the Senegalese national team roster.

Mouhammad Faye
Mouhammad Faye
   #8. Forward Mouhammad Faye (208-85, college: SMU), who plays in the French ProA couldn't help Hyeres-Toulon (2-26) in their last game on Friday. Despite his very good performance the bottom-ranked Hyeres-Toulon was badly defeated 88-69 at home by the higher-ranked Strasbourg IG (#11). Faye was the second best scorer with 17 points. He also added 5 rebounds (made all of his six free throws). There are only two games left until the end of the Regular Season. Faye has relatively good stats this season: 11.3ppg, 4.8rpg and 1.4apg. Despite he played previously for the Spanish national team, Faye is currently in the Senegalese national team roster.

Mamadou Dia
Mamadou Dia
   #9. International power forward Mamadou Dia (202-78), who plays in the French ProB (second division) couldn't help Fos Ouest (21-12) in their last game. Despite his very good performance Fos Ouest lost 71-76 in Le Portel to the much lower-ranked (#15) Le Portel. Dia was the top scorer with 15 points. He also added 7 rebounds in 34 minutes. Dia's team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. Dia is one of the most experienced players in a team as it's his sixth year in Fos Ouest's roster. He has averaged so far 8.2ppg and 3.9rpg in the 33 games. Despite Dia played previously for the French national team, he is currently in the Senegalese national team roster.

Moussa Badiane
Moussa Badiane
   #10. Center Moussa Badiane (205-81, college: E.Carolina) faced previously mentioned Ousmane Barro in the French ProB last game. Badiane contributed to an overtime Olympique Antibes' victory against the closely-ranked JL Bourg (15-18) 92-91. He scored 16 points, had 7 rebounds, passed 4 assists and added 3 blocks. Badiane's team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. Badiane belongs to league's best blockers and is ranked #2. This season he has very good stats: 11.5ppg, 6.0rpg, 1.4apg, 1.7bpg and 1.5spg. Despite Badiane played previously for the French national team, he is also an international player who is currently on the senior Senegalese National Team roster.

   #11. International forward Elson Mendy (200-85) contributed to an easy victory against the 17th-ranked Quimper UJAP 82-66 in the French ProB (second division) last Saturday. Mendy was the top player that evening. He scored 18 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in 27 minutes. This year Mendy has relatively solid stats: 11.1ppg, 5.0rpg, 1.3apg and 1.1spg in the eight games. Despite he played previously for the French national team, Mendy is currently in the Senegalese national team roster.

   #12. International forward Papa Dia (212-87, college: SMU) contributed to a Leche Rio Breogan's victory against the closely-ranked Menorca Basquet 69-64 in the Spanish LEB Gold (second division) on Friday night. He recorded 12 points, 5 rebounds and 2 blocks. Dia has averaged so far 8.8ppg and 4.9rpg. Despite he played previously for the French national team, Dia is currently in the Senegalese national team roster.

   #13. International power forward Babacar Toure (205-85) helped Geneve Lions win their game against the closely-ranked Monthey 80-67 in the Swiss LNA in Saturday night's game. He had a double-double by scoring 10 points and getting 12 rebounds. Toure also added 2 blocks in 30 minutes. Toure is ranked first on the list of the best rebounders in the league and also on the list of best blockers (first place). He has very solid stats this year: 11.1ppg, 9.7rpg, 1.5apg, 2.1bpg and 1.4spg in the 24 games. Despite Toure played previously for the French national team, he is currently in the Senegalese national team roster.

   #14. Former international power forward Abdoulaye N'Diaye (210-84, college: USC) was the major contributor in Souffelweyersheim's victory against the 15th-ranked Stade Clermont crushing them 86-64 in the French NM1 (third division) last Saturday. N'Diaye recorded 16 points, 6 rebounds and 3 blocks. N'Diaye is ranked first on the list of the best blockers in the league. He has averaged so far 9.7ppg, 6.6rpg, 1.3apg and 1.7bpg. Despite N'Diaye played previously for the French national team, he is currently in the Senegalese national team roster.

   #15. International power forward Malick Badiane (211-84) is a teammate of previously mentioned Elson Mendy and both played together in the last French ProB game. Badiane helped Nantes win their game against the 17th-ranked Quimper UJAP 82-66. He scored 12 points and grabbed 7 rebounds in 29 minutes. Badiane has reliable stats this year: 12.5ppg, 7.8rpg and 1.2apg in the 19 games. Despite he played previously for the French national team, Badiane is currently in the Senegalese national team roster.



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


Zoran Erceg's double-double lands him Player of the Week award among Serbians playing currently abroad - by Eurobasket Center

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

Zoran Erceg
Zoran Erceg
   #1. This week's number one is former international power forward Zoran Erceg (210-85). He was the major contributor in Besiktas' victory against the leader Chalon/Saor (3-3) 91-86 in the EuroChallenge in Sunday night's game. Erceg had a double-double by scoring 25 points and getting 15 rebounds in 36 minutes on the court. It was the game of the round between two top 2 ranked teams in group K. Besiktas Milangaz Istanbul (4-2) is placed second. Erceg has relatively good stats this year: 12.2ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.2apg, 2FGP: 56.4%(44-78), 3FGP: 29.0% and FT: 77.4% in the 15 games he played so far. He played for the Serbian senior national team three years ago.

Nenad Krstic
Nenad Krstic
   #2. Second place goes to an international center Nenad Krstic (213-83). Krstic led CSKA Moscow to a victory against the closely-ranked Lokomotiv (9-9) 78-72 in the Russian PBL last Sunday. He scored 15 points and grabbed 8 rebounds. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. CSKA Moscow (17-1) is placed first in the PBL. It was his team's 13th consecutive victory in a row. It's Krstic's first season with the team. This year Krstic has relatively solid stats: 10.1ppg, 4.0rpg, 2FGP: 58.1%(54-93) and FT: 65.4%. He is in the roster of the Serbian senior national team.

Milos Teodosic
Milos Teodosic
   #3. The Serbian player who performed third best last week abroad was an international guard Milos Teodosic (195-87) is a teammate of previously mentioned Nenad Krstic. But that was another game of his team in VTB United League which we would like to mention. Teodosic contributed to a CSKA Moscow's victory against the third-ranked Lietuvos rytas (10-6) 79-72. He recorded 13 points and added 7 assists (made all of his ten free throws !!!) in 30 minutes. CSKA Moscow (14-2) is placed first in group B. Teodosic is ranked third on the list of the best passers in the league with 4.7apg. This year his other stats are: 8.1ppg, 2.6rpg, 2FGP: 54.5%, 3FGP: 41.3% and FT: 82.9% in the 15 games. Teodosic is also a member of the Serbian senior national team.

Ivan Radenovic
Ivan Radenovic
   #4. Forward Ivan Radenovic (208-84, college: Arizona) led BC Donetsk to a victory over the closely-ranked Ferro-ZNTU (23-16) 79-69 in the Ukrainian Superleague in Saturday night's game. He was MVP of the game. Radenovic scored 25 points and grabbed 9 rebounds. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. BC Donetsk (31-8) is placed first in the Superleague. It was his team's 13th consecutive victory in a row. Radenovic has reliable stats this season: 13.1ppg, 6.3rpg, 2.1apg and 1.1spg. He used to play for the Serbian national team back in 2010.

Aleksandar Rasic
Aleksandar Rasic
   #5. International guard Aleksandar Rasic (194-84, agency: Beo Basket) faced previously mentioned Milos Teodosic in the VTB United League last game. Rasic, who plays in Lithuania could not help Lietuvos rytas (10-6) in their last game. Despite his very good performance the third-placed Lietuvos rytas lost 72-79 on the road to the leading CSKA Moscow in the group B of VTB United League. Rasic was the top scorer with 16 points. He also added 5 rebounds in 26 minutes. This year Rasic's overall stats are: 5.1ppg, 1.7rpg and 2.5apg in the 20 games. He plays currently for the Serbian national team.

Jovo Stanojevic
Jovo Stanojevic
   #6. An experienced center Jovo Stanojevic (208-77, also represented by Beo Basket) was the main contributor in Karsiyaka's victory against the league outsider Bandirma Kirmizi (4-26) crushing them 80-59 in the Turkish TBL on Sunday night. Stanojevic was the best player in that game. He recorded a double-double by scoring 18 points and getting 10 rebounds. Pinar Karsiyaka SK Izmir (19-11) is placed sixth in the TBL. There are only two games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. Stanojevic has individually a very good season with high stats. He averages: 15.1ppg, 6.0rpg and 2.1apg. Stanojevic is an international player who is currently on the senior Serbian National Team roster.

Novica Velickovic
Novica Velickovic
   #7. Former international forward Novica Velickovic (205-86), who plays in the Spanish ACB was not able to help one of league's weakest teams Real Madrid (25-8) in their last game. Despite his good performance Real Madrid was edged 86-83 in Barcelona by the leading Regal FC. Velickovic scored 11 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in a mere 17 minutes. They ended the series of four consecutive victories. His team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And now that game is very crucial. This year Velickovic's total stats are: 4.8ppg and 3.0rpg in the 17 games. He used to play for the Serbian national team two years ago.

Vule Avdalovic
Vule Avdalovic
   #8. Point guard Vule Avdalovic (189-81, another player represented by Beo Basket) is a teammate of previously mentioned Ivan Radenovic. However that was another game of his team in Ukrainian Superleague which brought him to that list. Avdalovic helped BC Donetsk win their n overtime game against the closely-ranked Ferro-ZNTU (23-16) 106-101. He scored 14 points, grabbed 8 rebounds and dished 6 assists. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. BC Donetsk (31-8) is placed first in the Superleague. It was his team's 13th consecutive victory in a row. Avdalovic's stats this season are: 12.1ppg, 3.5rpg, 4.3apg and 1.1spg. He used to play for the Serbian national team back in 2010.

Milovan Rakovic
Milovan Rakovic
   #9. Former international center Milovan Rakovic (208-85) helped his Lithuanian team Zalgiris win their game against the league leader Siauliai (16-4) crushing them 117-64 in the Baltic League on Saturday night. Rakovic recorded 13 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in a mere 16 minutes. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. B.C. Zalgiris Kaunas (0-0) is placed in the Baltic League. Rakovic has averaged so far 7.0ppg and 2.0rpg in the three games. He used to play for the Serbian national team seven years ago.

Slavisa Bogavac
Slavisa Bogavac
   #10. Swingman Slavisa Bogavac (200-80, agency: BeoExcell) was not able to secure a victory for Slask Wroclaw (25-13) in their game against Trefl Sopot (6-4) in the Polish PLK. Despite his very good performance in Thursday night's game Bogavac was the top scorer with 24 points. He also added 6 rebounds. Bogavac averaged so far 11.8ppg, 6.7rpg and 1.6apg. He is a former international player as eleven years ago he still played for the Serbian senior national team.

   #11. Former international forward Robert Sarovic (205-78) helped Timisoara win their game against the closely-ranked U-Mobitelco 81-78 in the Romanian Division A last Saturday. Sarovic was the top player that evening. He recorded 26 points (!!!) and grabbed 7 rebounds in 36 minutes. Sarovic's stats this year are: 10.8ppg, 5.4rpg and 1.3apg in the 18 games. Despite he played previously for the German national team, Sarovic is currently in the Serbian national team roster.

   #12. Former international center Milko Bjelica (207-84, another player represented by Beo Basket) couldn't help Caja Laboral in their game against FIATC Joventut in the Spanish ACB. He scored 9 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. His team was edged 68-66. Bjelica has averaged so far 7.7ppg and 3.3rpg. Despite he played previously for the Montenegrin national team, Bjelica is currently in the Serbian national team roster.

   #13. Former U20 international power forward Stevan Jelovac (208-89, another player represented by BeoExcell) helped Antalya edge the fourth-ranked Besiktas 100-99 in the Turkish TBL in Wednesday night's game. He was the top player that evening. Jelovac had a double-double by scoring 24 points and getting 10 rebounds in 36 minutes. Jelovac averaged so far 11.8ppg and 4.7rpg in the 29 games. Despite he played previously for the Montenegrin national team, Jelovac is currently in the Serbian U20 national team roster.

   #14. Former international forward Ivan Ivanovic (206-80, another player represented by Beo Basket) couldn't help Gaz Metan in their game against Ploiesti in the Romanian Division A. Despite his very good performance last Sunday He recorded a double-double by scoring 23 points and getting 11 rebounds. Ivanovic also added 4 assists. Ivanovic averaged so far 14.4ppg, 6.0rpg and 2.4apg. Despite he played previously for the Montenegrin national team, Ivanovic is currently in the Serbian national team roster.

   #15. International guard Stefan Markovic (194-88) helped Valencia Basket win their game against the 13th-ranked Gran Canaria 2014 77-62 in the Spanish ACB on Sunday night. He scored 6 points, grabbed 6 boards, dished 3 assists and stole 3 balls in 30 minutes. Markovic has averaged so far 4.8ppg, 2.7rpg, 3.3apg and 1.3spg in the 26 games. Despite he played previously for the Montenegrin national team, Markovic is currently in the Serbian national team roster.



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  SINGAPORE   


ASEAN League: Patriots roll past Slingers - by Eurobasket News

Philippine Patriots - Singapore Slingers 90:84

Philippine Patriots celebrated the 15th win in the ASEAN League season. They knocked down Singapore Slingers to improve at 15-5 record. Anthony Johnson (197-G/F-79, agency: Interperformances, college: La-Lafayette) notched 26 points to lead the hosts. The Slingers fell at 8-11 record in the fifth position in the ladder.
The Slingers enjoyed a strong start to the game. They led by 9 points after ten minutes 22:13. The visitors stretched the margin in the second quarter 44:31. But the Patriots stopped the bleeding in the third quarter. They narrowed the gap at 9-point mark at the final intermission. The home team unleashed 37 points in the fourth stanza to erase the deficit and eventually snatch a tough win at the end. Nakiea Miller (204-C-79, college: Iona) had 20 points and 11 rebounds for the Patriots. Ardy Larong (190-G/F-80) had 9 points in the win. Jeffers Kyle (207-C-85, college: Oregon St.) replied with 30 points and 15 boards for the Slingers. Graham Louis (205-F/C-84) provided 20 points and 12 rebounds in the loss.

Philippine Patriots: Anthony Johnson 26, Nakiea Miller 20+11 boards, Ardy Larong 9
Singapore Slingers: Jeffers Kyle 30, Graham Louis 20+12 boards



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


Emir Preldzic selected the top Slovenian playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

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

Emir Preldzic
Emir Preldzic
   #1. This week's number one is former international forward Emir Preldzic (205-87, agency: Beo Basket). He led Fenerbahce Ulker to a victory over the closely-ranked Tofas (14-16) 76-68 in the Turkish TBL in Sunday night's game. Preldzic was MVP of the game. He scored 17 points (went 5 for 5 at the free throw line) in 20 minutes on the court. Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul (21-9) is placed fifth in the TBL. There are only two games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. It's Preldzic's fifth season with the team. Preldzic has relatively good stats this year: 10.5ppg, 4.5rpg, 3.9apg, 2FGP: 51.5%, 3FGP: 37.8% and FT: 75.0% in the 27 games he played so far. He has a dual citizenship: Slovenian and Turkish. Despite Preldzic played previously for the Turkish national team, he played also for the Slovenian national team in 2008.

Erazem Lorbek
Erazem Lorbek
   #2. Second place goes to an international power forward Erazem Lorbek (209-84, college: Michigan St.). Lorbek contributed to an easy victory against the eighth-ranked Meridiano Alicante (17-16) crushing them 83-57 in the Spanish ACB last Sunday. He scored 9 points and grabbed 5 rebounds. Regal FC Barcelona (28-5) is placed first in the ACB. It was his team's ninth consecutive victory in a row. They will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And now that game is very crucial. This season Lorbek has relatively solid stats: 11.6ppg, 4.3rpg, 1.7apg, 2FGP: 47.8%, 3FGP: 32.5% and FT: 75.9%. Despite he played previously for the Turkish national team, Lorbek is currently a member of the Slovenian senior national team.

Sasha Vujacic
Sasha Vujacic
   #3. The Slovenian player who performed third best last week abroad was former international guard Sasha Vujacic (200-84). He contributed to an easy victory against the tenth-ranked Mersin (12-18) crushing them 106-78 in the Turkish TBL on Sunday night. Vujacic scored 12 points in a mere 17 minutes. Anadolu Efes Istanbul (24-6) is placed third in the TBL. There are only two games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be important. It's Vujacic's first season with the team. He has reliable stats this year: 12.4ppg, 2.8rpg, 2.2apg, 1.2spg, 2FGP: 48.6%, 3FGP: 37.0% and FT: 83.0% in the 26 games. Despite Vujacic played previously for the Turkish national team, he played also for the Slovenian national team in 2009.

Mirza Begic
Mirza Begic
   #4. Center Mirza Begic (217-85) contributed to a 1-point Real Madrid's victory against the 16th-ranked UCAM Murcia (12-21) 80-79 in the Spanish ACB in Sunday night's game. Begic scored 6 points, grabbed 8 rebounds and made 2 blocks. Real Madrid (25-8) is placed second in the ACB. It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row. They will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And now that game is quite important. Begic is ranked fourth on the list of the best blockers in the league. His overall stats this season are: 5.9ppg, 4.2rpg and 1.6bpg. Begic is another player who holds two passports: Bosnia and Herzegovina and Slovenian. Despite he played previously for the Bosnia and Herzegovina national team, Begic is currently in the Slovenian national team roster.

Miha Zupan
Miha Zupan
   #5. International power forward Miha Zupan (205-82) was the main contributor in a 2-point Spartak St.Petersburg's victory against the closely-ranked Krasnie Krilya (7-11) 73-71 in the Russian PBL last Saturday. He was the best player in that game. Zupan recorded 16 points in 21 minutes. Spartak St.Petersburg (9-9) is placed fifth in the PBL. This year Zupan averages: 6.1ppg and 2.2rpg in the 19 games. Despite he played previously for the Bosnia and Herzegovina national team, Zupan is currently in the Slovenian national team roster.

Dragisa Drobnjak
Dragisa Drobnjak
   #6. An experienced forward Dragisa Drobnjak (200-77, also represented by Beo Basket) contributed to an easy victory against the league outsider VOO Verviers-Pepinster (5-25) 89-72 in the Belgian D1 on Saturday night. He was the top player that evening. Drobnjak scored 14 points, grabbed 9 rebounds and dished 3 assists. Telenet Oostende (20-10) is placed third in the D1. There are only three games left until the end of the Regular Season. Drobnjak's overall stats this season are: 7.8ppg, 3.4rpg and 1.1apg. Despite he played previously for the Bosnia and Herzegovina national team, Drobnjak is also a former international player as he played for the Slovenian senior team four years ago.

Vlado Ilievski
Vlado Ilievski
   #7. Former international point guard Vlado Ilievski (189-80, another player represented by Beo Basket), who plays in the Russian PBL could not help Lokomotiv (9-9) to beat CSKA Moscow (17-1). He recorded 9 points and added 5 assists in 23 minutes. But Lokomotiv lost 87-94 on the road to the leading CSKA Moscow. It was Lokomotiv's third consecutive loss in a row. This year Ilievski's overall stats are: 6.6ppg, 1.1rpg and 2.4apg in the eight games. Despite he played previously for the FYR Macedonian national team, Ilievski is currently in the Slovenian national team roster.

Jaka Klobucar
Jaka Klobucar
   #8. Guard Jaka Klobucar (198-87) contributed to a 2-point Assi Ostuni's victory against the closely-ranked Fileni BPA (13-15) 88-86 in the Italian Lega2 (second division) last Sunday. He was the top player that evening. Klobucar scored 28 points (!!!) and grabbed 6 rebounds. Assi Basket Ostuni (13-15) is placed ninth in the Lega2. It was his team's third consecutive victory in a row. The Regular Season already ended. Klobucar averaged so far 13.7ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.1apg and 1.7spg. Despite he played previously for the FYR Macedonian national team, Klobucar is currently in the Slovenian national team roster.

Saso Ozbolt
Saso Ozbolt
   #9. International guard Saso Ozbolt (188-81, agency: World Sport Agency), who plays in the Croatian A1 was not able to help KK Zagreb CO (6-7) in their last game. Despite his good performance the fifth-placed KK Zagreb CO lost 70-82 in Split to the higher-ranked (#3) KK Split in the Championship Group. Ozbolt scored 11 points and added 4 passes in 33 minutes. It was KK Zagreb CO's third consecutive loss in a row. His team will play only one more game in the Second Stage. This year Ozbolt's total stats are: 6.8ppg, 2.0rpg, 2.2apg and 1.4spg in the 13 games. Despite he played previously for the FYR Macedonian national team, Ozbolt is currently in the Slovenian national team roster.

Jaka Lakovic
Jaka Lakovic
   #10. Guard Jaka Lakovic (186-78) contributed to a 2-point Galatasaray's victory against the seventh-ranked Aliaga (14-16) 85-83 in the Turkish TBL in Sunday night's game. He scored 8 points. Galatasaray Medical Park Istanbul (25-5) is placed first in the TBL. Lakovic's team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. Lakovic averaged so far 11.0ppg, 1.8rpg and 3.1apg. Despite he played previously for the FYR Macedonian national team, Lakovic is also an international player who is currently on the senior Slovenian National Team roster.

   #11. Former international forward Bostjan Nachbar (207-80) contributed to a 1-point Unics Kazan's victory against the fourth-ranked Lokomotiv 87-86 in the VTB United League last Wednesday. He recorded 7 points in only 12 minutes. Nachbar has averaged so far 5.3ppg and 2.3rpg in the four games. Despite he played previously for the FYR Macedonian national team, Nachbar is currently in the Slovenian national team roster.

   #12. Former international power forward Goran Jurak (203-77) contributed to an Angelico Biella's victory against one of league's weakest teams Otto Caserta 88-84 in the Italian SerieA on Wednesday night. He scored 10 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. Jurak has averaged so far 7.6ppg, 4.5rpg and 1.2spg. Despite he played previously for the FYR Macedonian national team, Jurak is currently in the Slovenian national team roster.

   #13. Former U21 international point guard Matej Venta (187-84) contributed to an easy victory against the third-ranked BK Decin crushing them 93-60 in the Czech Republic NBL in Tuesday night's game. He recorded 11 points (made all of his six free throws) in 24 minutes. Venta has averaged so far 7.3ppg, 3.3rpg and 2.1apg in the 36 games. Despite he played previously for the FYR Macedonian national team, Venta is currently in the Slovenian U21 national team roster.

   #14. Former international power forward Gasper Vidmar (211-87) is a teammate of previously mentioned Emir Preldzic and both played together in the last Turkish TBL game. Vidmar managed to help Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul to win against the closely-ranked Tofas 76-68. He scored only 3 points. Vidmar has averaged so far 4.0ppg and 2.5rpg. He used to play for the Slovenian national team back in 2010.

   #15. Former international point guard Aleksandar Capin (186-82, another player represented by Beo Basket) contributed to an easy victory against one of league's weakest teams Trabzonspor crushing them 103-81 in the Turkish TBL on Saturday night. Capin scored 8 points and added 4 passes in 17 minutes. Capin has averaged so far 7.4ppg, 1.9rpg and 3.0apg in the 20 games. Despite he played previously for the Serbian national team, Capin is currently in the Slovenian national team roster.



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  SPAIN   


LEB Gold Quarterfinals, first games: Visitors were almost perfect - by Eurobasket News

LEB Gold Quarterfinals started last night. Visitors were almost perfect as they registered 3 wins out of 4 games. La Palma, Breogan and Lleida celebrated on the road, while the only team who managed to win at home was Burgos. The Quarterfinals format is best-of-five and second games will be played on Sunday. Same teams will be the hosts. After that, teams will take a rest until next Friday. If necessary, fourth and fifth games will be played on May 13 and 15. Canarias was the regular season champions in LEB Gold with 26-8 record. They don't participate in the Playoffs as they already booked a spot for Liga Endesa 2012/13 season.

Navarra - La Palma 73-85 (0-1)
The game was mostly controlled by UB La Palma. Grupo Iruna Navarra managed to win fourth quarter 17-12. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Grupo Iruna Navarra 33-19 including 24 on the defensive glass. UB La Palma looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. American forward Lucas Sikma (203-89, college: Portland) nailed 14 points and 6 rebounds (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field) for the winning side and his fellow American import forward Antonio Pena (203-86, college: Villanova) accounted for 13 points and 6 rebounds. UB La Palma's coach used an eleven-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. Czech center Ondrej Starosta (215-79) came up with 10 points and 6 rebounds and guard Inaki Narros (194-81) added 16 points respectively for Grupo Iruna Navarra in the defeat.
Top scorers:
La Palma: S.Arrocha 15+1reb+2ast, L.Sikma 14+6reb, A.Pena 13+6reb+1ast, R.Martinez 10+1reb, A.Lopez 9+6reb+5ast, C.Diaz 6+7ast
Navarra: I.Narros 16+2reb+1ast, O.Starosta 10+6reb+3ast, J.Garcia 9+3reb, M.Uriz 9+1reb+2ast, A.Savitski 9+2reb+1ast, K.Langford 8+3reb+1ast
gschID: 175850


Menorca - Breogan 64-69 (0-1)
The guests trailed by 6 points at the halftime before their 38-27 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Worth to mention a great performance of American power forward Brooks Sales (208-80, college: Villanova) who helped to win the game recording 9 points and 10 rebounds. Dominican-American guard James Feldeine (193-88, college: Quinnipiac) contributed with 15 points for the winners. Four Leche Rio Breogan players scored in double figures. Center Oliver Arteaga (211-83) answered with 16 points and 9 rebounds and guard Roma Bas (192-83) added 19 points in the effort for Menorca Basquet. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game.
Top scorers:
Breogan: J.Feldeine 15+3reb+1ast, S.Ogirri 13+3reb, M.Gomez 12+6reb, P.Dia 12+5reb+1ast, B.Sales 9+10reb+2ast, J.Krabbenhoft 4+2reb
Menorca: R.Bas 19+1reb, O.Arteaga 16+9reb, D.Navarro 9+4reb+1ast, A.Matali 8+4reb, R.Morentin 3+8reb, M.Blanch 3+2ast
gschID: 175851


Melilla - Lleida 53-71 (0-1)
The game without a history. Lleida Basquet led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Lleida Basquet dominated on the defensive end, holding Melilla Baloncesto to just 7 points in first quarter. Lleida Basquet forced 19 Melilla Baloncesto turnovers. Forward Miguel Feliu (200-85) stepped up and scored 20 points for the winners and Ivorian-American forward Jonathan Kale (203-85, college: Providence) chipped in 8 points and 10 rebounds. At the losing side power forward Hector Manzano (207-80) responded with 10 points and Nigerian power forward Chukwudinma Odiakosa (203-85, college: Illinois St., agency: N.E.T.) scored 8 points and 6 rebounds. Both coaches tested many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games.
Top scorers:
Lleida: M.Feliu 20+4reb, C.Ramsdell 13+2reb, J.Kale 8+10reb, S.Dagostino 8+2reb+1ast, J.Simeon 7+4reb, A.Alzamora 6+5reb+2ast
Melilla: H.Manzano 10+4reb+2ast, R.McKeither 9+4reb, J.Salvador Arco 8+2reb+2ast, C.Odiakosa 8+6reb, J.Riera 5+1reb+1ast, M.Suka-Umu 4+3reb+2ast
gschID: 175849


Burgos - Caceres 94-71 (1-0)
The game was mostly controlled by Ford Burgos. Caceres 2016 managed to win fourth quarter 19-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Naturalized Brazilian forward Marcus Vinicius Toledo (203-86) nailed 17 points and 6 rebounds (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field) for the winning side and power forward Josep Ortega (200-84) accounted for 13 points and 6 rebounds. Center Sergio Olmos (213-86, college: Temple) came up with 15 points and 7 rebounds (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field) and Belizean-American power forward Leon Williams (203-86, college: Ohio) added 10 points and 7 rebounds respectively for Caceres 2016 in the defeat. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games.
Top scorers:
Burgos: M.Vinicius Toledo 17+6reb+2ast, J.Castro 15+2reb, R.Huertas 14+2ast, J.Tillman 13+5reb, J.Ortega 13+6reb+1ast, J.Aguilar 8+3reb+6ast
Caceres: S.Olmos 15+7reb, C.Cherry 11, L.Williams 10+7reb, X.Forcada 9+2reb+1ast, P.Robles 9+3reb+3ast, F.Sanchez 6+2reb



James Augustine claims Spanish ACB weekly honour - by Eurobasket News

American James Augustine (208-F-84, agency: Priority Sports) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for UCAM Murcia and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 33.
The 27-year old forward had a double-double of 16 points and ten rebounds, while his team crushed Assignia M. (#12, 15-18) with 18-point margin 78-60. UCAM Murcia maintains the 16th position in Spanish Liga Endesa (12-21 record). Augustine turned to be UCAM Murcia's top player in his first season with the team. University of Illinois graduate has very impressive stats this year. Augustine leads league in rebounds with 8.2rpg. Augustine is in league's top in and averages solid 61.1% FGP.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 24-year old Croatian center Ante Tomic (217-C-87) of second-ranked Real Madrid. Tomic impressed basketball fans with 17 points and 9 rebounds. Bad luck as Real Madrid was edged by slightly higher-ranked FCB Regal (#1, 28-5) 86-83. It was definitely game of the week between two contenders to the title. Real Madrid still maintains its place in the top 2 of the standings, even despite this loss. His team's 25-8 record is not bad at all. Tomic is well-known by Real Madrid fans and he already established his position as one of team's most reliable players.

The third best performed player last round was another UCAM Murcia's star - Nigerian Ime Udoka (198-F-77, agency: Priority Sports). Udoka showcased his all-around game by recording 19 points, seven rebounds and five assists in the last round. He was another key player of UCAM Murcia, helping his team with a 78-60 easy win against the higher-ranked Assignia M. (#12, 15-18). The chances of UCAM Murcia not to end season at such low position in the league, however are less than slim as they have already lost 21 games, recording just twelve victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Udoka could try to bring UCAM Murcia's a little bit higher in the standings. Udoka has a very solid season. In 18 games in Spain he scored 12.3ppg. He also has 4.6rpg and and 3PT: 41.7%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Curtis Borchardt (211-C-80) of B.de Rueda V. - 11 points and 12 rebounds
5. Niklas Caner-Medley (203-F-83) of Valencia - 17 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Kaloyan Ivanov (205-F-86) of Lucentum - 11 points, 13 rebounds and 5 assists
7. Kostas Vasiliadis (200-G/F-84) of Gescrap BB - 23 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists
8. Joel Freeland (208-F-87) of Unicaja - 19 points and 9 rebounds
9. Luka Zoric (211-C/F-84) of Unicaja - 18 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists
10. Sergio Sanchez (190-PG-81) of Fuenlabrada - 23 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists

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



LEB Silver Semifinals: First games - by Eurobasket News

LEB Gold Semifinals started last night. Home teams celebrated in both games taking 1-0 lead in the series. Ourense handed 69-59 loss to Aurteneche, while Prat Juventut was better than Regal Barca II 80-74. The format is best-of-five and second games are scheduled for Sunday. Same teams will be the hosts. Third games are scheduled for Wednesday and if necessary fourth and fifth games will be played on May 11 and 13. Andorra was the regular season champion in LEB Silver. They don't participate in the Playoffs as they already won the promotion for LEB Gold.

Ourense - Aurteneche M. 69-59 (1-0)
The game was mostly controlled by Ourense. Aurteneche M. managed to win second period 17-13. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Ourense forced 19 Aurteneche M. turnovers. Worth to mention a great performance of American guard Kyle Hill (188-79, college: E.Illinois) who helped to win the game recording 13 points. point guard Jorge Fernandez (180-89) contributed with 11 points and 4 steals for the winners. point guard Ander Ortiz (185-80) answered with 18 points and forward Alex Arcelus (196-85) added 11 points in the effort for Aurteneche M.Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games.
Top scorers:
Ourense: K.Hill 13+2reb+2ast, J.Fernandez 11+3reb+1ast, F.Koffi 10+2reb, A.Jaume Vicens 9+5reb+1ast, A.Miguel 8+3reb+1ast, A.Pantin 7+4reb
Aurteneche M.: A.Ortiz 18+1reb+2ast, A.Arcelus 11+4reb, A.Ausina 9+5reb, A.Thompson 7+8reb, A.Fernandez 4, J.Camilo Riveiro 3+5reb
gschID: 175842


Prat Juventud - Barca Regal II 80-74 (1-0)
The hosts trailed by 5 points after three quarters before their 23-12 charge, which allowed them to win the game. It was a very good performance for Montenegrin forward Marko Todorovic (203-F-92) (203-92) who helped to win the game recording 14 points and 9 rebounds. Forward Alejandro Barrera (199-92) contributed with 17 points and 7 steals for the winners. Center Eduard Riu (202-82) answered with 13 points and 6 rebounds and point guard Joan Creus (185-92) added 12 points in the effort for Barca Regal II. Four Barca Regal II players scored in double figures. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest.
Top scorers:
Prat Juventud: A.Barrera 17+3reb+2ast, A.Ventura 17+2reb+3ast, M.Todorovic 14+9reb+2ast, G.Marti 8+4reb+1ast, J.Tomas 7+4reb+2ast, B.Brigman 6+4reb
Barca Regal II: M.Eriksson 14+1reb, E.Riu 13+6reb+1ast, J.Perez 13+1reb+2ast, J.Creus 12+3reb+2ast, I.Garcia 7+8reb+1ast, A.Zhigulin 6+1reb



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  TAIWAN   

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Ryan WRIGHT
  Taiwan Mobile
  (206-C/F-87)
  Avg: 19.3
 1. Wright, Taiwan Mob.19.3 
 2. Davis, Pure Youth18.0 
 3. Trim, Taiwan Beer17.5 
 4. Hsu, Bank o.17.0 
 5. Yang, Taiwan Beer16.6 
 6. Johnson, Yulon L.15.9 
 7. Fuqua, KKL15.4 
 8. Felix, Dacin Tigers15.1 
 9. Lu, Yulon Luxgen14.3 
 10. Tien, Dacin Tigers14.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Kevin JOHNSON
  Yulon L.
  (201-F-84)
  Avg: 15
 1. Johnson, Yulon L.15.0 
 2. Wright, Taiwan Mob.12.9 
 3. Fuqua, KKL12.7 
 4. Davis, Pure Youth12.5 
 5. Trim, Taiwan Beer11.4 
 6. Vaudreuil, Bank o.11.3 
 7. Felix, Dacin Tigers8.2 
 8. Hsu, Bank o.7.6 
 9. Tien, Dacin Tigers6.9 
 10. Chou, Yulon Luxg.6.7 
Assists Per Game
 Yi-Chieh SU
  Taiwan Mobile
  (181-PG-87)
  Avg: 5.7
 1. Su, Taiwan Mobile5.7 
 2. Chen, Yulon Luxgen4.2 
 3. Ke, Pure Youth3.4 
 4. Chou, KKL3.3 
 5. Lin, Yulon Luxgen3.0 
 6. Chen, Taiwan Beer3.0 
 7. Chen, Bank o.2.9 
 8. Chen, Pure Youth2.9 
 9. Lin, Bank o.2.8 
 10. Hsu, Dacin Tigers2.8 
Steals Per Game
 Cheng LIU
  KKL
  (192-F-90)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Liu, KKL2.2 
 2. Lin, Bank o.1.9 
 3. Johnson, Yulon L.1.6 
 4. Su, Taiwan Mobile1.6 
 5. Yang, Taiwan Beer1.6 
 6. Vaudreuil, Bank o.1.5 
 7. Wright, Taiwan Mob.1.5 
 8. Ke, Pure Youth1.5 
 9. Felix, Dacin Tigers1.4 
 10. Hsu, Dacin Tigers1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Quincy DAVIS
  Pure Youth
  (206-F/C-83)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Davis, Pure Youth2.8 
 2. Felix, Dacin Tigers2.2 
 3. Fuqua, KKL2.1 
 4. Johnson, Yulon L.1.6 
 5. Vaudreuil, Bank o.1.1 
 6. Cheng, Taiwan Beer1.1 
 7. Wright, Taiwan Mob.1.0 
 8. Chou, Yulon Luxgen1.0 
 9. Tien, Dacin Tigers0.8 
 10. Mao, Pure Youth0.7 


SBL Round 1 of Finals. Pure Youth celebrate first win - by Eurobasket News

Pure Youth - Dacin Tigers 88-70

Pure Youth victoriously opened their title series campaign. They defeated Dacin Tigers at home court. Pure Youth trailed by 6 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 5-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 88-70. Pure Youth dominated down low during the game scoring 72 of its points in the paint compared to Dacin Tigers' 34. They outrebounded Dacin Tigers 42-29 including 29 on the defensive glass. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Pure Youth made 7 blocks. American power forward Quincy Davis (206-83, college: Tulane) fired a double-double by scoring 21 points, 13 rebounds and 4 blocks for the winners. Guard Shih-Chieh Chen (176-84) chipped in 24 points and 9 rebounds. Four Pure Youth players scored in double figures. Pure Youth's coach Chin-Tse Hsu used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Belizean-American power forward Noel Felix (205-81, college: Fresno St.) produced 19 points and 8 rebounds and the former international forward Lei Tien (203-83) added 15 points respectively for lost side.
Top scorers:
Pure Youth: S.Chen 24+9reb+3ast, Q.Davis 21+13reb+2ast, W.Tsai 17+4reb+5ast, D.Creighton 14+8reb, C.Mao 7+3reb+2ast, H.Chen 3+2reb+2ast
Dacin Tigers: N.Felix 19+8reb+1ast, L.Tien 15+4reb+1ast, T.Chen 10, Y.Lin 8+5reb+6ast, H.Hsu 6+5reb+3ast, Y.Yueh 6
gschID: 175916



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  TANZANIA   


Dar-Es-Salaam Set to Stage Next Inter Cities Extravagaza - by Eurobasket News

DAR-ES-SALAAM will host next year's 15th edition of the East and Central Africa Inter Cities championships, a top official has announced. Simon Msoffe, the East and Central Africa Basketball Federation (E&CABF) President, however, said Kampala will still be on stand- by should Dar fail to host. Dar teams failed to travel to Kampala for this year's show in Kampala. Lord Mayor of the Ugandan city had asked the organisers to consider giving Kampala another chance to host the event.

Meanwhile, Nairobi's Hilda Indasi and Mombasa's Chris Abuto were named the Most Valuable Players (MVP) in the just ended East and Central Africa Inter Cities Championships. Hilda led the defending champions with class nailing 16 points in their 68-47 win over Kampala. Abuto on the other hand was key in Mombasa's 80-47 victory over Mukono of Uganda.

Best Defensive Players (BDP) was given to Naftali Msongoti of Mukono while the ladies trophy went to KCC's Martha Soigi. Mombasa torched Mukono 80-47 to claim the men's finals. The coastal lads led 43-19 at the break and returned in the second half to dominate the game. Nelson Njau hit 16 points for the winners while the losers had 12 from Naftali Msongoti.

Nairobi retained the East and Central Africa Inter Cities crown after thrashing hosts Kampala City 67-48 in the finals of the 14th edition at YMCA, Wandegeya. Indasi was the top scorer with 16 points while the lanky Susan Akinyi nailed 14. Eleanor Musundi was also a stand out in defence. For KCC, Monica Sima grabbed 16 points. Nairobi had whipped Moyo 76-43 in a one-sided semi finals while Kampala went past compatriots Moyo 48-40. The winners played three preliminary round matches without losing any match. They beat Mukono 51-40 , Kampala 62-45 and Moyo 61-31.

Full results: Hargesia 33 Mukono 83; Kampala 72 Moyo 44; Nairobi 41 Mukono 40; Kampala 101 Moyo 48; Juba 82 Mogadishu 47; Mukono 72 Moyo 53; Mogadishu 62 Moyo 65; Hargeisa 34 Mombasa 105; Nairobi 62 Kampala 45; Juba 72 Kampala 86; Juba 88 Moyo 71; Nairobi 61 Moyo 31; Mukono 72 Mombasa 74; Mukono 58 Kampala 74; Kampala 97 Mogadishu 56; Moyo 62 Hargeisa 51, and Nairobi 76 Moyo 43.
Courtesy of: The Star (Nairobi)



U.S Street-Ball Star Beat Dar es Salaam All Stars - by Eurobasket News

THE visiting USA street basketball team, AND 1showcased their supremacy, whipping Dar es Salaam All Stars 123-71 in a sensational friendly match played at the National Indoor Stadium in Dar es Salaam over the weekend.

The US street basketball heavyweights arrived in the country last Wednesday for a week long tour of three regions of Dar es Salaam, Mwanza and Arusha to promote the game, in which they had opportunity to play international friendlies with their hosts.

The well-attended match started at a quick note with AND1 exhibiting their basketball prowess and amazing dunks to take a 64-23 after the first two quarters and despite playing their best game the hosts could hardly march their opponents went on to lose 123-71.

Among the star players that featured for AND1 were Dennis Chism 'Spyda', Aj Miles 'Amazing', Just Fly, High Riser, Phillip Champion 'Hotsauce', Mr Cell, Jamar Davis 'The Pharmacist', Brandon LaCue aka 'Werm', and Robert Martin. Dar All Stars was proudly represented by Juma Kisocky, Frank Kusiga, Gerad Baru, Gilbert Batungi, Adamu Jegame, Fidelis Sunday, Sylivian Yunzu and Bernad Mageni.

The locals were equally impressive. Speaking after the match on Sunday, Coca-Cola Country Manager, Dimeji Olaniyan hailed the Americans for making yet another tour of the country and was optimistic it would help promote Tanzanian basketball by inspiring young players to practice the game.

AND1 team is on tour of various countries in the world with prime objective of promoting basketball and particularly to motivate the youngsters to participate in the game under the sponsorship of Coca-Cola through Sprite brand.

This initiative is also geared at encouraging active and healthy lifestyles among the youth fraternity. AND1 is a legendary American street basketball group, recognised and celebrated around the world as the embodiment of the basketball culture.

The American side started their tour of the globe in 2010 and have so far played basketball matches in Panama, Chile, Mozambique, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Botswana and Tanzania under the sponsorship of Coca-Cola through Sprite brand.

Coca-Cola has since 2010 sponsored three youth basketball clinics and the initial one was held at Don Bosco under the supervision of Tanzania basketball icon Hasheem Thabeet, the only Tanzanian that has managed to find his way to the high ranks of professional basketball in the US.

To further inspire the youths, Coca-Cola in November 2010 sent three outstanding basketball players to attend a two-week basketball course in the US where they got rare opportunity to rub shoulders with professional players and experienced coaches.

Other Sprite Slam activities on calendar this year are the U-16 League, Hasheem U-17 clinic, Regional finals, Grand Conce