Eurobasket Daily News Report: 6/24/2012 1:04:01 AM

EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 6/24/2012 1:04:01 AM

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Men News

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ARGENTINA

Argentina split games at the start of Douai international Tournament - by Eurobasket News

Argentina U17 are in Douai, France at the moment. They are taking part at the prestigious Douai World Cup international tournament. The Latin American selection split starting games.
Argentina started the tourney with the loss to hosting France. France and Argentina came up with an exciting performance. The hosts led by four points at halftime 38:34. The Latin American youngsters however managed to cut the deficit to just two points before the fourth frame. Les Bleus increased the tempo in the final quarter and rolled to a tough 75:66 victory at the end. Damien Inglis (197-F-95) scored 16 opints and grabbed 15 rebounds for France. Olivier Yao-Delon (193-G-95) added 12 points for the home team. Lucas Gargallo (95) answered with 12 points for Argentina. Lucio Reinaudi (183-G-95) had 10 points in defeat.
Argentina rebounded in the second game of the tournament. They defeated Egyptian counterparts. The Latin American team started strongly as they established a 41:27 halftime lead. Egypt stopped the bleeding in the third quarter. They narrowed the deficit at 6-point mark. But Argentina were back in the drivers seat in the fourth frame and cruised to the victory at the end. Facundo Vallejos (95) provided 19 points for Argentina. Lucas Vildoza (188-G-95) accounted for 16 points in the win. Omar Abdeen (180-PG-95) responded with 17 points for Egypt. Wessam Emad (197-F/C-95) had 14 points in the losing case.

San Martin Corrientes bring in Gordon James - by Eurobasket News

San Martin Corrientes filled in import spot in the roster. They agreed on terms of contract with Gordon James (198-F-79, college: Bridgeport). The forward lately played for Larranga Montevideo in Uruguay. Last season he spent with Ciclista Juninense in TNA. Gordon James tallied 17.2 points and 12 boards per game for Ciclista Juninense. Latinbasket.com named him All-Argentinean TNA Centre of the Year. He also made it into All-Argentinean 1st Team. Previously Gordon James had stints in Mexico, Venezuela, Uruguay, Japan and Portugal. Asia-Basket.com named the forward into All-Japanese BJ League 2nd Team in 2008. He also got into All-Uruguay LUB 1st Team in 2010.

Argentinian National team starts to think in London - by Facundo Iatzky

Just one day after Argentina won the southamerican championship in Chaco, the national team starts the training camps for the olympic games in Buenos Aires. Julio Lamas named 15 players for the camp, and after some friendly games to be played the next weeks, he will give the definitive list for London 2012.
players:
Pablo Prigioni (191-G-77)
Facundo Campazzo (179-PG-91)
Nicolas Laprovittola (188-PG-90)
Paolo Quinteros (185-PG-79)
Emanuel Ginobili (198-G-77, agency: Interperformances)
Carlos Delfino (198-G-82)
Hernan Jasen (199-G-78)
Marcos Mata (201-F-86)
Andres Nocioni (199-F-79)
Guillermo Kammerichs (203-F/C-80)
Leonardo Gutierrez (200-F-78)
Leonardo Mainoldi (203-F-85)
Luis Scola (206-F/C-80)
Juan Gutierrez (205-F/C-83)
Martin Leiva (207-F/C-80)

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ASEAN LEAGUE

Round 2 of Finals. Indonesia Warriors force decisive third game - by Eurobasket News

Satria Muda - Petron Blaze 81-61

Indonesia Warriors registered the home win over Petron Blaze and forced the decisive third game in the title series. The game without a history. Satria Muda led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Satria Muda outrebounded Petron Blaze 37-21 including a 25-14 advantage in defensive rebounds. 24 personal fouls committed by Petron Blaze helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Americans were the main players on the court. Forward Evan Brock (204-84, college: Alabama) had a double-double by scoring 26 points and 16 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and power forward Steve Thomas (204-81, college: Middle Tenn.St.) chipped in 12 points and 10 rebounds during the contest. Forward Duke Crews (203-88, college: Bowie St.) responded with 16 points and forward Nick Fazekas (211-85, college: Nevada) scored 10 points and 5 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games.
Top scorers:
Satria Muda: E.Brock 26+16reb+3ast, S.Pringle 13+3reb+5ast, S.Thomas 12+10reb+2ast, J.Canada 9+3ast, A.Wisnu 7+3reb, M.Wuysang 4+3reb
Petron Blaze: D.Crews 16+4reb+2ast, L.Avenido 13+2reb, N.Fazekas 10+5reb+3ast, R.Yap 8+4reb+1ast, C.Banchero 6+2reb+3ast, B.Fernandez 5

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BAHAMAS

Centrobasket 2012: Bahamas finished third in Group A - by Eurobasket News

Bahamas finished third in Group A of the Centrobasket 2012. The team overcame Nicaragua in the last day of the Qualifying Round, but it was not enough to advance to the semis.
In Day 5 Bahamas edged Nicaragua 116:62. Bahamas opened the game with 36:16 and was better in the second frame with 24:18. Moreover in the second half the favorites continued to dominate the court and won the third and the last stanzas. Mitchell Johnson (196-F-85, college: Jarvis Christian) exploded with 43 points to lead the winners and Kadeem Coleby (205-F/C-89) posted 14. Taylor Gonzalez, ended up with 15 points in defeat, while Windell Sloan (195-F/C-87) scored 13.
Panama took the second place in the group as they edged Cuba 94:66. Cuba started with 22-20 after the first 10 minutes and led 1 point at the halftime. The second half however was dominated only by one team-Panama. They needed 26-15 in the third period and finished the game with 28-10 in the last stanza.

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BELARUS

Belarus U20 lose two in Latvia - by Eurobasket News

Belarus U20 played two friendly encounters in Latvia.
First the Belarusian selection took on Latvian U18 National Team. Latvian junior selection dominated throughout the game. They ended up winning 72:57. Dimitrijs Brizgalovs (186-G-94) finished with 14 points to lead the winners. Toms Leimanis (190-G-94) added 13 points, while Rihards Adins (203-F-94) contributed 10 points for the winners. Vitali Liutych (198-G/F-92) answered with 18 points for Belarus. Aliaksandr Semianiuk (210-F-93) had 10 points in defeat.
Next Belarus U20 took on their Latvian counterparts. The hosts stormed into the game taking a 31:13 lead after ten minutes. Belarus cut the deficit but Latvia erupted for 30 points in the third quarter building a 77:51 lead at the final break. Latvia did not slow down in the fourth quarter sealing a comfortable 94:62 win at the end. Arturs Bricis (193-G-92) and Kaspars Vecvagars (191-G-93) knocked down 15 points each to lead the hosts. Janis Timma (201-F/G-92, agency: FCM) added 12 points, 5 boards and 5 assists for Latvia U20. Vitali Liutych came up with 23 points for Belarus.

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BELGIUM

Antwerp Transfer - by Peter Buyse

Port of Antwerp Giants has announced the addition of Jason Love (206-F/C-87, college: Xavier) to their roster for 2012-2013. This will be the second season in Belgium for the former Xavier player.
Last year he played for VOO Verviers-Pepinster and he made an immediate impact being the leading rebounder of the Ethias League.
His stats for his first year overseas were 13.3 ppg and 8.7 rpg. While a senior at Xavier he was selected to the All Atlantic 10 third team.

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CANADA

Canada U17 split opening games at Douai Tournament - by Eurobasket News

Canadian U17 National Team travelled to France to take part at the Douai international tournament. They lost one and won one at the start of the tourney.
Canada tipped off their campaign with a comfortable 99:76 win over China. The North American team led by just two points at the interval 45:43. But Canada increased the tempo in the second half. They unleashed 54 points after the big break and cruised to the victory at the end. Marial Shayok (95) had 14 points to pace Canada. Jordan Robinson (95) added 12 points and 6 boards in the win. Zhou Qi (215-C-96) answered with 21 points and 12 boards for China. Han Delong (192-F-95) had 13 points in the loss.
Next Canada faced hosting France. Canada led by three points after ten minutes 19:16. But France triggered an 18:8 run in the second quarter to pull ahead. The hosts stretched their lead to 11 points at the final intermission 52:41. Canada went on a strong comeback rally but came up just short of victory at the end 63:68. Olivier Yao-Delon (193-G-95) had 16 points, while Paul Rigot finished with 11 points for the winners. Malcolm Duvivier topscored with 16 points for Canada. Kevin-Mbezela Zabo (186-G-95) had 9 points in the loss.

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CENTROBASKET

Standings (Men)

Standings

Group A
1. P.Rico		4-0
2. Panama		3-1
3. Bahamas		2-2
4. Cuba		1-3
5. Nicaragua		0-4
Group B
1. Dominican R.		4-0
2. Jamaica		3-1
3. Mexico		2-2
4. US Virg.Isl		1-3
5. Costa Rica.		0-4

Semi-Finals: Round 6

Jun. 23: DOM - PAN 79-62
Jun. 23: PUR - JAM 103-89

Finals: Round 7

Final

Jun. 24: DOM - PUR

Place 3-4

Jun. 24: PAN - JAM

Stats Leaders (Men)

Points Per Game

Walter HODGE
  ISV
  (183-PG-86)
  Avg: 20.3

1. Hodge, ISV	20.3
2. Ayarza, PAN	20.0
3. Horford, DOM	19.3
4. Samuels, JAM	17.8
5. Huertas, PUR	17.2
6. Ayon, MEX	16.0
7. Johnson, BAH	15.8
8. Efejuku, JAM	15.8
9. Stoll, MEX	14.8
10. Valdez, CUB	14.0

Rebounds Per Game

Jack Michael MARTINEZ
  DOM
  (203-F/C-81)
  Avg: 11

1. Martinez, DOM	11.0
2. Horford, DOM	10.5
3. Ayon, MEX	9.7
4. Haiti, CUB	9.5
5. King, PAN	9.0
6. Jones, ISV	8.5
7. Samuels, JAM	8.0
8. Munoz, NIC	7.5
9. Ewing Jr., JAM	7.2
10. Davis, BAH	7.0

Assists Per Game

Andres RODRIGUEZ
(184-PG-81)
Avg: 7.2

1. Rodriguez, PUR	7.2
2. Barea, PUR	6.7
3. Hodge, ISV	4.8
4. Stoll, MEX	4.5
5. Coronado, DOM	4.2
6. Munoz, PAN	4.2
7. Rodriguez, CUB	4.0
8. Haiti, CUB	3.8
9. Chavarria, CRC	3.8
10. Rivera, PUR	3.8

Steals Per Game

Marvin GRAY
  BAH
  (178-G-83)
  Avg: 2.8

1. Gray, BAH	2.8
2. Stoll, MEX	2.5
3. Chavarria, CRC	2.3
4. Johnson, BAH	2.0
5. Scott, JAM	1.8
6. Rodriguez, CUB	1.8
7. Quintero, MEX	1.8
8. Hodge, ISV	1.8
9. Ayon, MEX	1.7
10. Rosario, PUR	1.6

Blocks Per Game

Alfred HORFORD
  DOM
  (208-F/C-86)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Horford, DOM	2.3
2. Ayon, MEX	1.7
3. Jordan, JAM	1.6
4. Ayarza, PAN	1.4
5. Coleby, BAH	1.3
6. Anderson, CRC	1.3
7. Jones, ISV	1.3
8. Ramos, PUR	1.0
9. Munoz, NIC	1.0
10. Lopez, NIC	1.0

The Semifinals are set at the Coloseum Jose Miguel Agrelot in Hato Rey - by Eurobasket News

Group A

Bahamas - Nicaragua 116-62
Bahamas edged Nicaragua 116:62. Bahamas opened the game with 36:16 and was better in the second frame with 24:18. Moreover in the second half the favorites continued to dominate the court and won the third and the last stanzas. Mitchell Johnson (196-F-85, college: Jarvis Christian) exploded with 43 points to lead the winners and Coleby Kadeem posted 14. Taylor Gonzalez, Rudy ended up with 15 points in defeat, while Sloan Windell scored 13.

Panama - Cuba 94-66
Panama edged Cuba 94:66 and finished second in Group A. Cuba started with 22-20 after the first 10 minutes and led 1 point at the halftime. The second half however was dominated only by one team-Panama. They needed 26-15 in the third period and finished the game with 28-10 in the last stanza. Josimar Ayarza (205-F-87, college: S.Mississippi) paced all the winners with 23 points and Ernesto Oglivie (199-F-89) as well as Daniel King (203-F-87) netted 14 each. Luis Haiti Yoan responded with 19 points in the losing effort, while Torres Orestes added 14.

Group B

Costa Rica - Mexico 62-89
Mexico prevail over Costa Rica 89:62. Mexico started with 21-11 and added 23-16 in the second frame. The winners also won the third and the fourth quarters in the game to seal the last victory at the tournament. Hector Hernandez (206-F-85, college: Fresno St.) stepped up with 15 points and Paul Stoll (178-PG-85) added 13. Quesada Carlos relied with 14 points in the losing effort.

U.S. Virgin Islands - Dominican Republic 73-78
Dominican Republic pip Virgin Islands 78:73 to remain undefeated. They opened the game with 22-15 and added 23-19 in the second frame. Virgin Islands looked better in the second half and won both periods. It was not enough however to beat the winners of the group. Martinez Yack top-scored for the winners with 23 points and 11 rebounds, while Coronado Juan scored 18. Walter Hodge (183-PG-86, college: Florida) produced 18 points in defeat and Aska Ivan added 14.

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CHINA

Standings - NBL

NBL Standings

1. Guangzhou L.		12-4
2. Guangzhou FM		11-5
3. Jiangsu		10-5
4. Hebei		10-6
5. Changan Group		9-7
6. Heilongjiang		8-8
7. Hong Kong		6-9
8. Nanjin Army		6-10
9. Sichuan		5-11
10. Henan Jiyuan		2-14

Regular Season: Round 16

Jun. 23: Heilongjiang - Guangzhou L. 97-92
Jun. 23: Hebei - Guangzhou FM 92-103
Jun. 23: Hong Kong - Henan Jiyuan 89-68
Jun. 23: Nanjin Army - Changan Group 74-68
Jun. 23: Jiangsu - Sichuan 100-83

Regular Season: Round 17

Jun. 26: Henan Jiyuan - Jiangsu
Jun. 26: Guangzhou L. - Hong Kong
Jun. 26: Nanjin Army - Sichuan
Jun. 26: Changan Group - Hebei
Jun. 26: Heilongjiang - Guangzhou FM

China defeat Montenegro U20 at Sino-European Challenge Event - by Eurobasket News

China - Montenegro U20 83:55

China posted the first win at the Sino-European Challenge Event tournament in Kunshan. The hosts coasted past Montenegrin U20 National Team. Zhu FangYu (201-F-83) scored 12 points to lead the hosts.
China led by just four points at the first break 21:17. They stretched the margin to 9 points at halftime 41:32. The hosts continued to stay dominant as they established a 15-point buffer before the final quarter. China went on an 18:5 run in the fourth quarter to seal a comfortable win at the end. Yi Li (202-F/G-85) produced 11 points for China. Wang ZhiZhi (214-C-77) delivered 10 points in the victory. Marko Mugosa (197-F-93), Andrej Pajovic (186-G-92) and Vukota Pavic (203-C-93) answered with 11 points each for Montenegro.

China: Zhu FangYu 12, Yi Li 11, Wang ZhiZhi 10
Montenegro U20: Marko Mugosa 11, Andrej Pajovic 11, Vukota Pavic 11

China play at Douai International Tournament in France - by Eurobasket News

Chinese U17 National Team participate at the annual Douai World Cup international tournament in France. They played two games at the tourney already however were unable to taste victory.
China opened their campaign against Canada. The Asian team suffered a 76:99 loss at the end. The North American team led by just two points at the interval 45:43. But Canada increased the tempo in the second half. They unleashed 54 points after the big break and cruised to the victory at the end. Marial Shayok (95) had 14 points to pace Canada. Jordan Robinson (95) added 12 points and 6 boards in the win. Zhou Qi (215-C-96) answered with 21 points and 12 boards for China. Han Delong (192-F-95) had 13 points in the loss.
Next China took on Croatian counterparts. Croatia dominated from start to finish. They established a 37:28 halftime lead. The European team went on a 29:11 run in the third quarter to clear off. Croatia fired 35 points in the final quarter to seal a comfortable win at the end. Marko Arapovic (206-C-96) finished with 21 points for Croatia. Domagoj Bosnjak (197-G-95) added 18 points in the win. Zhou Qi responded with 12 points for China. Ma Bin (95) finished with 10 points in defeat.

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COSTA RICA

Centrobasket 2012: Costa Rica finishes winless - by Eurobasket News

Costa Rica finishes winless the Centrobasket 2012. The team tried hard but lost all four games at the tournament.
In Day 4 the favorites overcame Costa Rica 69:51. They started with 24-14 and had 9-point advantage at the halftime. Dominican Republic won the third period 22-14 and finished the game with 9-8. Juan Coronado (196-G-83) top-scored for the winners with 14 points and Josh Asselin (211-C/F-78, agency: Duran International, college: Michigan) had 12. Smith Clifford responded with 15 points in defeat, while Anderson Jefny notched 12.
In Day 5 Mexico prevail over Costa Rica 89:62. Mexico started with 21-11 and added 23-16 in the second frame. The winners also won the third and the fourth quarters in the game to seal the last victory at the tournament. Hector Hernandez (206-F-85, college: Fresno St.) stepped up with 15 points and Paul Stoll (178-PG-85) added 13. Quesada Carlos relied with 14 points in the losing effort.

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CROATIA

Croatia post two victories in Douai - by Eurobasket News

Croatian U17 National Team victoriously opened their Douai World Cup international tournament campaign. They registered two victories in as many games played.
Croats faced Egypt in the opener. The teams got to a flying start. They teamed up for impressive 55 points in the opening quarter as Croatia eked out a 28:27 lead. The European team stretched the lead to 3 points at halftime 48:45. Croatia took off in the third quarter. They drastically improved performance and went on a 26:7 run to clear off. Egypt went on a 26:17 run in the fourth frame but could not avoid 78:91 loss at the end. Mario Hezonja (200-F/G-95) finished with 17 points, while Ivan Bender (201-C-95) contributed 12 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Ahmed Mohamed Mahmoud (95) answered with 16 points for Egypt. Walid Ahmed (185-F/G-95) had 13 points in defeat.
Next Croatia played against China. Croatia dominated from start to finish. They established a 37:28 halftime lead. The European team went on a 29:11 run in the third quarter to clear off. Croatia fired 35 points in the final quarter to seal a comfortable win at the end. Marko Arapovic (206-C-96) finished with 21 points for Croatia. Domagoj Bosnjak (197-G-95) added 18 points in the win. Zhou Qi (215-C-96) responded with 12 points for China. Ma Bin (95) finished with 10 points in defeat.

Croatia post first win at Sino-European Challenge Event - by Eurobasket News

Croatian B National Team travelled to China to take part at Sino-European Challenge Event in Kunshan. They took on Serbian University National Team in the opener. Croatia claimed a 75:71 victory.
Croatia eked out a 19:16 lead after ten minutes. The teams traded baskets throughout the second quarter. Croatia maintained the lead posting a 33:30 halftime lead. Serbia denied the deficit in the third quarter. They stole a one-point lead at the final intermission. Croatia unleashed 28 points in the final frame and secured a tough win at the end. Dino Butorac (192-G-90) accounted for 17 points, while Zeljko Sakic (201-F-88, agency: Beo Basket) scored 16 points for Croatia. Darko Planinic (211-C-90) added 15 points, while Pavle Marcinkovic (197-G-89) contributed 12 points in the winning case. Stefan Stojacic (194-F-89, agency: Interperformances) answered with 23 points for Serbia. Bircevic had 13 points in the loss.

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CUBA

Centrobasket 2012: Cuba lost another two - by Eurobasket News

Cuba lost another two games at Centrobasket 2012. The team was defeated by the hosts, Puerto Rico in Day 4 and finished the Qualifying Round with the loss from Panama.
In Day 4 Puerto Rico overcame Cuba 95:61. The hosts easily reached 27-20 after the first 10 minutes and added 16-9 in the second frame. Moreover they won the third quarter 26-12 and finished the game with 26-20. Sanchez Ricardo stepped up with 13 points for the winners, while Peter John Ramos (222-C-85), Rosario Michael and Alexander Galindo (200-F-85, college: FIU) had 12 each. Torres Orestes finished the game with 14 points in the losing effort.
Last night Panama edged Cuba 94:66 and finished second in Group A. Cuba started with 22-20 after the first 10 minutes and led 1 point at the halftime. The second half however was dominated only by one team-Panama. They needed 26-15 in the third period and finished the game with 28-10 in the last stanza. Josimar Ayarza (205-F-87, college: S.Mississippi) paced all the winners with 23 points and Ernesto Oglivie (199-F-89) as well as King Daniel netted 14 each. Luis Haiti Yoan responded with 19 points in the losing effort, while Torres Orestes added 14.

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CYPRUS

Cyprus new coaches - by Michael Aristidou

In Cyprus league the teams started to have some activities for new season
All the teams (with the exception of Omonoia) have their coaches for new season. New add in Cyprus league first division is Anagennisi Yermasoyias.
Coaches
Keravnos: Panagiotis Yiannaras
Intercollege Etha: Kyriakos Adamou
APOEL: Antonis Konstantinidis
Proteas DaNoi AEL: Markos Asonitis
Pizza Express Apollon: Akis Konstantinou
Ydra Asfalitiki ENAD: Christos Stylianides
Petrolina AEK: Nikolas Papadopoulos
Anagennisi Yermasoyias: Kipros Gregoriou-Iraklis Pittakas Omonoia: Not yet

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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Centrobasket 2012: Dominican Republic wins Group B, qualifies to the semis - by Eurobasket News

Dominican Republic wins Group B and qualifies to the semis of Centrobasket 2012. Moreover the team advanced to the 2013 FIBA Americas Championship.
In Day 4 the favorites overcame Costa Rica 69:51. They started with 24-14 and had 9-point advantage at the halftime. Dominican Republic won the third period 22-14 and finished the game with 9-8. Juan Coronado (196-G-83) top-scored for the winners with 14 points and Josh Asselin (211-C/F-78, agency: Duran International, college: Michigan) had 12. Clifford Smith (193-G-80, college: Barry) responded with 15 points in defeat, while Anderson Jefny notched 12.
In Day 5 Dominican Republic pip Virgin Islands 78:73 to remain undefeated. They opened the game with 22-15 and added 23-19 in the second frame. Virgin Islands looked better in the second half and won both periods. It was not enough however to beat the winners of the group. Martinez Yack top-scored for the winners with 23 points and 11 rebounds, while Juan Coronado scored 18. Walter Hodge (183-PG-86, college: Florida) produced 18 points in defeat and Aska Ivan added 14.

SAMMY MEJIA TO BANVIT - by Ozell Wells

Sammy Mejia (198-G-83, college: De Paul) has found a new team. The guard has agreed on terms of contract with Banvit Basketbol Kulubu Sammy Mejia terminated his contract with CSKA Moscow just yesterday. The guard joined the Russian team at the start of the previous season. The Dominican Republic player tallied 6.1 points and 1.6 boards per VTB League game. In PBL his stats read 5.4 points, 1.9 rebounds and 1.0 assist per appearance. In Euroleague Sammy Mejia notched 5.0 points, 1.5 boards and 1.0 assist. Previously Sammy Mejia had stints with Cholet, AEL Larissa, Capo dOrlando and Fort Wayne Mad Ants. He earned Eurobasket.com All-French ProA Honourable Mention in 2010. Sammy Mejia graduated from De Paul. He attended Dominican Republic National Team training camp in 2005.

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EGYPT

Egypt lose two in Douai - by Eurobasket News

Egyptian U17 National Team is currently in France. They are participating at the Douai World Cup international tournament. The African team lost two games at the start of the competition.
Egypt faced Croatia in the opener. The teams got to a flying start. They teamed up for impressive 55 points in the opening quarter as Croatia eked out a 28:27 lead. The European team stretched the lead to 3 points at halftime 48:45. Croatia took off in the third quarter. They drastically improved performance and went on a 26:7 run to clear off. Egypt went on a 26:17 run in the fourth frame but could not avoid 78:91 loss at the end. Mario Hezonja (200-F/G-95) finished with 17 points, while Ivan Bender (201-C-95) contributed 12 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Ahmed Mohamed Mahmoud (95) answered with 16 points for Egypt. Walid Ahmed (185-F/G-95) had 13 points in defeat.
Next Egypt played versus Argentina. The Latin American team started strongly as they established a 41:27 halftime lead. Egypt stopped the bleeding in the third quarter. They narrowed the deficit at 6-point mark. But Argentina were back in the drivers seat in the fourth frame and cruised to the victory at the end. Facundo Vallejos (95) provided 19 points for Argentina. Lucas Vildoza (188-G-95) accounted for 16 points in the win. Omar Abdeen (180-PG-95) responded with 17 points for Egypt. Wessam Emad (197-F/C-95) had 14 points in the losing case.

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EUROBASKET SUMMER LEAGUE

Charlotte ESL MVP and All-Star Teams - by ESL News

MVP - CHRIS MOORE 61 CHARLESTON SOUTHERN (ASKER ALIENS)

FIRST TEAM:

CHRIS MOORE, 61 CHARLESTON SOUTHER (ASKER)
JAMARR HARDY, 64 LENOIR (ASKER ALIENS)
DEVON MCBRIDE, 64 KUTZTOWN (POITERS}
ROB FIELDS, 61 CATAWBA (ASKER ALIENS)
BRAD BYERSON, 68 VIRGINA UNION (POITERS)

HONORABLE MENTION:

BRANDON THOMAS, 66 U.N.C. PEMBROKE (TREVISO)
JONTAE SHERROD, 63 EAST CAROLINA UNIVERSITY (SOLNA)
MARTIN BARRETT, 66 TALLAHASSEE C.C. (SOLNA)
GAITHER HENDRIX, 60 BREVARD COLLEGE (TREVISO)
LEON FRAZIER, 62 HUNTINGDON (TREVISO)

Chris Moore from Charleston Southern earns the Most Valuable Player Award at the Charlotte Summer League with his cerebral floor play as he led his team to the Tourney Championship. Moore led his team in scoring and assists while playing very intelligent basketball throughout the tourney.

1st Team:
Jamarr Hardys outside shooting and strong rebounding were his outstanding traits that helped lead Asker to the championship.
Devon McBride of team Poitiers displayed a definite soft touch around the basket while also showing off his outside shooting.
Rob Fields of Championship team Askers showed his deft shooting touch as he poured in 3 pointers and was nearly perfect from the free-throw stripe.
Brad Byerson the big man in the middle for team Poitiers showed his physical strength as he dominated inside and was the man on the boards!

Honorable Mention:

Brandon Thomas the high flying forward showed his athletic ability throughout the week with his flashes to the basket and dunks.
Jontae Sherrod showed his great shooting range and ability to get to the basket all week. His spectacular drives to the rim made him a scoring threat to be dealt with throughout the week.
Martin Barrett proved he could rebound with the best of them. His inside play made him a definite threat to score down low.
Gaither Hendrix of team Treviso showed why his ball handling skills made all the players around him better.
Leon Frazier from team Treviso played steady basketball all week long and helped lead his team to the number 1 seed! Frazier showed is crafty play and solid outside shooting.

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EUROCUP

Sammy Mejia joins Banvit - by Eurobasket News

Sammy Mejia (198-G-83, college: De Paul) has found a new team. The guard has agreed on terms of contract with Banvit. Sammy Mejia terminated his contract with CSKA Moscow just yesterday. The guard joined the Russian team at the start of the previous season. The Dominican Republic player tallied 6.1 points and 1.6 boards per VTB League game. In PBL his stats read 5.4 points, 1.9 rebounds and 1.0 assist per appearance. In Euroleague Sammy Mejia notched 5.0 points, 1.5 boards and 1.0 assist. Previously Sammy Mejia had stints with Cholet, AEL Larissa, Capo dOrlando and Fort Wayne Mad Ants. He earned Eurobasket.com All-French ProA Honourable Mention in 2010. Sammy Mejia graduated from De Paul. He attended Dominican Republic National Team training camp in 2005.

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EUROLEAGUE

Vlada Jovanovic takes over BC Donetsk - by Eurobasket News

Vlada Jovanovic (agency: Beo Basket ) will take over BC Donetsk. The Serbian specialist has agreed on terms of contract with the Ukrainian champions. Vlada Jovanovic (agency: Beo Basket ) replaces Sasa Obradovic (agency: Beo Basket ) on the bridge. Jovanovic spent the last two seasons at helm of BC Partizan Igokea Beograd. He led the team to the Serbian League consecutive titles. Vlada Jovanovic (agency: Beo Basket ) also triumped at Adriatic League with the team in 2011. Previously the specialist worked as assistant coach with Partizan. Eurobasket.com named Vlada Jovanovic (agency: Beo Basket ) All-Adriatic League Coach of the Year in 2011. He was also trumped All-Serbian League Coach of the Year in 2011 and 2012. Jovanovic also guided Serbian U18 National Team in 2009 and 2010. He worked as assistant coach with Serbian U20 National Team in 2008.

Lietuvos Rytas tab Nemanja Nedovic - by Eurobasket News

Lietuvos Rytas strengthened their roster. They signed a deal with Nemanja Nedovic (192-PG-91, agency: Beo Basket). Lietuvos Rytas will become the first team outside Serbia for Nemanja Nedovic. The guard spent his entire career in Crvena Zvezda. Last season the guard tallied 6.7 points, 1.5 assists and 1.4 rebounds per game in Adriatic League. In Serbian League Nemanja Nedovic tallied 5.9 points, 1.2 rebounds and 1.2 assists per appearance. The guard was the member of U16, U18 and U20 Serbian National Team. He joined Serbian National Team this year. Eurobasket.com named Nemanja Nedovic All-Serbian League Most Improved Player of the Year in 2011. He made it into All-European Championship U20 2nd Team in 2011.

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FRANCE

France rally past Poland in Turkey - by Eurobasket News

France U20 - Poland U20 67:54

French U20 National Team posted the second win at the Turgut Atakol tournament in Turkey. They held off Poland to catch up with their opponents at 2-1 record. Pierre Pelos (203-C-92) came up with 16 points and 10 boards to lead the charge.
France and Poland exchanged baskets throughout the opening quarter. The scoreboard read 21:21 after ten minutes. France pulled their noses in front in the second quarter. They established a 36:33 halftime lead. Les Bleus held Poland to just 6 points in the third term to extend the lead. They entered the final quarter up by as many as 9 points 48:39. Poland could not recover in the fourth period as France cruised to the victory at the end. Leo Westermann (198-G-92, agency: Beo Basket) provided 13 points, while Louis Labeyrie (209-C-92) netted 10 points for the winners. Mateusz Ponitka (196-G-93) answered with 13 points for Poland. Michal Michalak (194-G-93, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) had 10 points in the loss.

France U20: Pierre Pelos 16+10 boards, Leo Westermann 13, Louis Labeyrie 10
Poland U20: Mateusz Ponitka 13, Michal Michalak 10

Germany post third win at Turgut Atakol Tournament - by Eurobasket News

Germany U20 - France U20 47:46

German U20 National Team recorded the third win at the Turgut Atakol Tournament in Istanbul. They nipped France for 3-1 record. Maximilian Kleber (207-F-92) posted 14 points to lead the winners.
France stormed into the game. They held Germany to 4 points in the opening quarter to take 13-point lead. But German side gradually recovered. They cut the deficit to 8 points at halftime 16:24. Germany denied the deficit and posted a one-point lead before the fourth frame. The teams went neck and neck throughout the fourth quarter but Germany proved more accurate in the dying seconds and sealed the victory at the end. Philipp Neumann (210-C-92) accounted for 12 points, Daniel Theis (207-C-92) had 6 points for the winners. Leo Westermann (198-G-92, agency: Beo Basket) answered with 16 points for France. Jean-Charles Livio (203-PF-93) had 9 points in the loss.

Germany U20: Maximilian Kleber 14, Philipp Neumann 12, Daniel Theis 6
France U20: Leo Westermann 16, Jean-Charles Livio 9

French and Serbian cadets exchange victories - by Eurobasket News

French and Serbian U16 National Teams exchanged victories during the friendly series in Sumice Hall in Belgrade.
The visitors claimed a narrow 75:73 win in the opener. Sari-Katrin came up with 14 points to lead the winners. Serbia led by as many as 10 points after the opening quarter 21:11. But France went on a 44:22 rally over the next two periods to take control. They withstood a comeback rally from Serbians in the final frame to seal the victory. Eliez delivered 12 points, while Ori had 11 points for France. Stojanovic knocked down 12 points for Serbia. Pavlovic netted 10 point for the home team.
Serbia however recovered in the second game of the series. They clinched a 65:61 win at the end. Pavlovic had 15 points and 11 rebounds for the winners.
The scenario was different. France spurred in front early in the game. The visitors built a 41:26 halftime advantage. France stretched the lead to 18 points with one quarter to go. But the Serbian side unleashed 28:6 run in the final period to steal a tough 65:61 victory at the end. Peno and Stojanovic notched 9 points each for the winners. Alez answered with 18 points for France. Elezer delivered 11 points in the loss.

France gain two victories at Douai International Tournament - by Eurobasket News

French U17 National Team registered two victories at the start of 2012 Douai World Cup international tournament. The hosts defeated Argentina and Canada in the openers.
France and Argentina came up with an exciting performance. The hosts led by four points at halftime 38:34. The Latin American youngsters however managed to cut the deficit to just two points before the fourth frame. Les Bleus increased the tempo in the final quarter and rolled to a tough 75:66 victory at the end. Damien Inglis (197-F-95) scored 16 opints and grabbed 15 rebounds for France. Olivier Yao-Delon (193-G-95) added 12 points for the home team. Lucas Gargallo (95) answered with 12 points for Argentina. Lucio Reinaudi (183-G-95) had 10 points in defeat.
France next took on Canadian counterparts. It was another tough battle. Canada led by three points after ten minutes 19:16. But France triggered an 18:8 run in the second quarter to pull ahead. The hosts stretched their lead to 11 points at the final intermission 52:41. Canada went on a strong comeback rally but came up just short of victory at the end 63:68. Olivier Yao-Delon had 16 points, while Paul Rigot (199-F-95) finished with 11 points for the winners. Malcolm Duvivier topscored with 16 points for Canada. Kevin-Mbezela Zabo (186-G-95) had 9 points in the loss.

Cam Long joins Le Mans - by Eurobasket News

Le Mans brought in another import player. They agreed on terms of contract with Cam Long (193-G-88, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: George Mason). The guard spent the last season in Lithuania. He played for Siauliai. Cam Long notched 11.6 points, 3.6 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 1.7 steals per game in Baltic League. In LKL the guard posted 13.8 points, 3.3 boards, 3.4 assists and 2.1 steals per appearance. Eurobasket.com named Cam Long All-Lithuanian LKL Import Player of the Year. It was the first pro season for the guard. He graduated from George Mason in 2011. Cam Long made it into All-CAA 1st Team in his senior season.

Ronny Turiaf wins NBA title with Miami - by Eurobasket News

Ronny Turiaf (208-C/F-83, agency: Priority Sports, college: Gonzaga) wins NBA title with Miami as the latter defeated the Thunder 121-106 at AmericanAirlines Arena in Game5 of the NBA Finals. After losing the first game of the series, the Heat won four in a row to earn the franchises second title.
The entire fourth quarter felt like coronation inside thunderous AmericanAirlines Arena. The Heat led by 24 points to begin the final period and led by 10 points to begin the second half.
The season 2011-2012 Ronny Turiaf was supposed to start for New York Knicks (NBA), but in Oct.'11 joined ASVEL Lyon-Villeurbanne Basket (France-ProA, starting five). In EuroCup he averaged 11.5ppg, 3.5rpg, 1.5apg, while in French League showed 9.3ppg, 7.3rpg, 2.0apg, 1.8bpg. In Dec.'11 moved to New York Knicks (NBA), later that month traded to Washington Wizards (NBA). In Mar.'12 was traded to Denver Nuggets (NBA), but waived the same month, later that month signed at Miami Heat (NBA) and won the title!
In 2009/2010 he played for Golden State Warriors (NBA) and averaged 4.9ppg, 4.5rpg, 2.1apg, 1.3bpg. In 2010-2011 appeared for New York Knicks (NBA, starting five) and showed 4.3ppg, 3.2rpg, 1.4apg, 1.2bpg.

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FYR MACEDONIA

Macedonian coach Borche Ilievski has signed with the club Bredablik - by Georgi Bujukliev

The coach Borche Ilievski has signed with the club Bredablikfor the next season,after his intensive sport specialization at Estudiantes in Spain. This is going to be his third club in his successful coaching career in Iceland after coaching KFI and Tindastoll .In 2010 he was awarded with the title the coach of the year in Iceland, when he succeed to bring KK.KFI in Icelandic super league .
Bredablik is a team with young talented players and we will try to build up a successful system of work in same time we are aiming to elite league in Iceland.
Before coaching in Iceland, the coach Ilievski had been a head coach of K.K Astibo, as well as a head coach U16 Macedonian National team, University National team of Macedonia and Polo Trade in super league In Macedonia

Atlanta - San Juan - Caracas - by Georgi Bujukliev

Macedonian basketball team early this morning left Skopje. In the U.S. and Puerto Rico,Macedonian players will work their last piece of preparation before a performance in Caracas on Pre tournament which begins on July 2. Coach Marjan Lazovski announce the final list of 12 basketball players who will represent Macedonia at the Olympic qualification .
With two changes from the squad that performed of EP in Lithuania last summer , Macedonian staff ambitious look at the tournament in Caracas , in the hope that Macedonia will get the first personnel to participate in one Olympic games .
Guards: Vlado Ilievski , Leicester Bo Mekejleb , Vojdan Pavlov , Alexander Kostoski , Darko Sokolov
Wings : Damjan Stojanovski , Mark Simonovski , Kiril Nikolovski , Georgi Chekovski
Centers : Pero Antic , Todor Gechevski , Predrag Samardziski

First destination for overseas team is Atlanta ( U.S. ), where besides the training Macedonian Team will play two friendly matches against the combined university team , scheduled for 23 and 24 July .
Following is departure in San Juan ( Puerto Rico ), where Macedonian players can expect two more meetings on 27 and 29 July , and then the final destination - Caracas ( Venezuela ), where the on 2 th July starts Pre tournament .
Of the tournament ,Macedonian Team is in a group with Angola and New Zealand . In the competition of 12 national teams , the top three travel to the Summer Olympic games in London-2012.

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GERMANY

Germany post third win at Turgut Atakol Tournament - by Eurobasket News

Germany U20 - France U20 47:46

German U20 National Team recorded the third win at the Turgut Atakol Tournament in Istanbul. They nipped France for 3-1 record. Maximilian Kleber (207-F-92) posted 14 points to lead the winners.
France stormed into the game. They held Germany to 4 points in the opening quarter to take 13-point lead. But German side gradually recovered. They cut the deficit to 8 points at halftime 16:24. Germany denied the deficit and posted a one-point lead before the fourth frame. The teams went neck and neck throughout the fourth quarter but Germany proved more accurate in the dying seconds and sealed the victory at the end. Philipp Neumann (210-C-92) accounted for 12 points, Daniel Theis (207-C-92) had 6 points for the winners. Leo Westermann (198-G-92, agency: Beo Basket) answered with 16 points for France. Jean-Charles Livio (203-PF-93) had 9 points in the loss.

Germany U20: Maximilian Kleber 14, Philipp Neumann 12, Daniel Theis 6
France U20: Leo Westermann 16, Jean-Charles Livio 9

Russia slow Germany down at Turgut Atakol Tournament - by Eurobasket News

Russia U20 - Germany U20 64:60

Russian U20 National Team recorded the first win at the Turgut Atakol international tournament in Istanbul. They overcame Germany for 1-2 record. Denis Zakharov (190-PG-93) scored 14 points to pace the winners. Germany fell at 2-1 record after the loss.
Russia pulled in front early in the game. They built a 21:15 lead after ten minutes. Russia stretched the lead in the second quarter. They arrived at halftime up by 8 points 35:27. Germany failed to change the complexion of the encounter in the third quarter. Russia stayed aggressive and maintained the lead. They ensured a 48:38 advantage with one quarter remaining. Germany scored 22 points in the final quarter cutting the deficit but had to surrender at the end. Artem Komolov (191-G-93) finished with 12 points, while Vladislav Trushkin (201-F-93) and Alexander Tikhonin (205-F-92) had 10 points each in the victory. Daniel Theis (207-C-92) answered with 21 points for Germany. Maximilian Kleber (207-F-92) produced 10 points in defeat.

Russia U20: Denis Zakharov 14, Artem Komolov 12, Vladislav Trushkin 10, Alexander Tikhonin 10
Germany U20: Daniel Theis 21, Maximilian Kleber 10

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HUNGARY

ITALY

Italy open Torneo di Roseto with victory - by Eurobasket News

Italy U20 - Austria U20 99:42

Italian U20 selection recorded the first win at the international tournament in Roseto. The hosts fired past Austrian counterparts. Fabio Mian (195-F-92) stepped up with 23 points to lead Italy.
The home team left no chance for the visitors. Italy built a 26:8 lead after ten minutes. They stretched the margin in the second quarter. The Azzurri ensured a 50:19 halftime advantage. Italy did not loosen the grasp in the third quarter. They stayed aggressive and extended their lead to 45 points before the fourth frame. Italy never looked back afterwards marching to the victory at the end. Marco Lagana (194-G-93) delivered 14 points for Italy. Tommaso Ingrosso (206-PF-92) added 11 points for the winning side.
Italy will next face Hungary, while Austria will take on Ukraine.

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JAMAICA

Centrobasket 2012: Jamaica advanced to 2013 FIBA Americas Championship - by Eurobasket News

Jamaica advanced to 2013 FIBA Americas Championship after a thrilling victory over Mexico. In Day 4 Jamaica needed 76:74 win to take the second place in the group. They started with 19-18 and added massive 20-9 in the second frame. Both teams scored 15 points each in the third period and it was really hot in the court in the last stanza. Although Mexico won 32-22 the last period it was not enough to win the game. Samardo Samuels (206-F/C-89, college: Louisville) top-scored for the winners with 23 points and 15 rebounds.
In the semifinals Jamaica will face Puerto Rico. The latter advanced to the Semifinal of the home tournament at the Coloseum Jose Miguel Agrelot in Hato Rey. The hosts won over Cuba in Day 4 and finished the tournament with 4-0 record. In Day 4 Puerto Rico overcame Cuba 95:61. The hosts easily reached 27-20 after the first 10 minutes and added 16-9 in the second frame. Moreover they won the third quarter 26-12 and finished the game with 26-20. Sanchez Ricardo stepped up with 13 points for the winners, while Ramos Peter, Rosario Michael and Alexander Galindo (200-F-85, college: FIU) had 12 each. Orestes Torres (203-C-87) finished the game with 14 points in the losing effort.

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LATVIA

LITHUANIA

Lietuvos Rytas tab Nemanja Nedovic - by Eurobasket News

Lietuvos Rytas strengthened their roster. They signed a deal with Nemanja Nedovic (192-PG-91, agency: Beo Basket). Lietuvos Rytas will become the first team outside Serbia for Nemanja Nedovic. The guard spent his entire career in Crvena Zvezda. Last season the guard tallied 6.7 points, 1.5 assists and 1.4 rebounds per game in Adriatic League. In Serbian League Nemanja Nedovic tallied 5.9 points, 1.2 rebounds and 1.2 assists per appearance. The guard was the member of U16, U18 and U20 Serbian National Team. He joined Serbian National Team this year. Eurobasket.com named Nemanja Nedovic All-Serbian League Most Improved Player of the Year in 2011. He made it into All-European Championship U20 2nd Team in 2011.

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MEXICO

Centrobasket 2012: Mexico failed to reach Final Four - by Eurobasket News

Mexico failed to reach Final Four the Centrobasket 2012. The team finished third in the group and could not qualify to the Semifinals as well as to the 2013 FIBA Americas Championship.
In Day 4 Jamaica needed 76:74 win to take the second place in the group. They started with 19-18 and added massive 20-9 in the second frame. Both teams scored 15 points each in the third period and it was really hot in the court in the last stanza. Although Mexico won 32-22 the last period it was not enough to win the game.
In Day 5 Mexico prevail over Costa Rica 89:62. Mexico started with 21-11 and added 23-16 in the second frame. The winners also won the third and the fourth quarters in the game to seal the last victory at the tournament. Hector Hernandez (206-F-85, college: Fresno St.) stepped up with 15 points and Paul Stoll (178-PG-85) added 13. Carlos Quesada (198-C-85) relied with 14 points in the losing effort.

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MONTENEGRO

Montenegro surrender against Serbia in Kunshan - by Eurobasket News

Montenegrin U20 National Team suffered the second straight loss at the start of Sino-European Challenge Event tournament in China. They faced Serbian University National Team and had to surrender 62:69.
Serbia strongly started the game. They built a 22:13 lead after ten minutes. Montenegro struggled to match the effort in the second quarter. Serbia gained a 41:25 halftime lead. Montenegro gradually adjusted their tempo and cut the deficit to 13 points with one quarter remaining. Montenegro got within single digits in the fourth frame but Serbia hang on to escape with a narrow win at the end. Ivan Smiljanic (198-F-89) posted 13 points to lead Serbia. Marko Mugosa (197-F-93) stepped up with game-high 21 points for Montenegro. Rajickovic added 11 points in the loss.

Dusko Vujosevic returns to Partizan - by Darko Pekic

After two seasons, Dusko Vujosevic (agency: Beo Basket ) decided finally to return to Partizan Belgrade. According to eurobasket.com sources Vujosevic signed a three year contract and will replace Vlada Jovanovic (agency: Beo Basket ) at Partizan's bench.

Born in Podgorica, Vujosevic coached Partizan Belgrade from 2001 to 2010 bringing the team to the Euroleague Final Four in Paris-Bercy in 2010. Vujosevic won everything in Serbia with Partizan Belgrade and in the summer 2010 he moved to CSKA Moscow. The coach and the Russian club parted ways after few months when the club missed the qualification to the Euroleague Top 16. The Montenegrin coach spent the season as free agent.

China defeat Montenegro U20 at Sino-European Challenge Event - by Eurobasket News

China - Montenegro U20 83:55

China posted the first win at the Sino-European Challenge Event tournament in Kunshan. The hosts coasted past Montenegrin U20 National Team. Zhu FangYu (201-F-83) scored 12 points to lead the hosts.
China led by just four points at the first break 21:17. They stretched the margin to 9 points at halftime 41:32. The hosts continued to stay dominant as they established a 15-point buffer before the final quarter. China went on an 18:5 run in the fourth quarter to seal a comfortable win at the end. Yi Li (202-F/G-85) produced 11 points for China. Wang ZhiZhi (214-C-77) delivered 10 points in the victory. Marko Mugosa (197-F-93), Andrej Pajovic (186-G-92) and Vukota Pavic (203-C-93) answered with 11 points each for Montenegro.

China: Zhu FangYu 12, Yi Li 11, Wang ZhiZhi 10
Montenegro U20: Marko Mugosa 11, Andrej Pajovic 11, Vukota Pavic 11

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NICARAGUA

Centrobasket 2012: Nicaragua remains winless in Hato Rey - by Eurobasket News

Nicaragua remains winless in Hato Rey of Centrobasket 2012. The team lost the fourth straight game at the tournament and finished last in Group B.
Panama overcame Nicaragua 93:60 in Day 4 of the Qualifying Round. Panama took 21:20 after the first period and added massive 31-30 in the second frame. They won also the third and the last stanza to seal the victory. Josimar Ayarza (205-F-87, college: S.Mississippi) erupted with 30 points and Daniel King (203-F-87) added 14 points and 11 rebounds. Walter Solis (188-F-85) replied with 17 points in the losing effort and Vansdell Thomas (179-G-86) netted 13.
In Day 5 Bahamas edged Nicaragua 116:62. Bahamas opened the game with 36:16 and was better in the second frame with 24:18. Moreover in the second half the favorites continued to dominate the court and won the third and the last stanzas. Mitchell Johnson (196-F-85, college: Jarvis Christian) exploded with 43 points to lead the winners and Kadeem Coleby (205-F/C-89) posted 14. Taylor Gonzalez, Rudy ended up with 15 points in defeat, while Windell Sloan (195-F/C-87) scored 13.

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NIGERIA

Nigeria defeat Great Britain in overtime - by Eurobasket News

Nigeria - Great Britain 86:80 (OT)

Nigerian National Team played an exhibition encounter against Great Britain at the University of Houston. The African powerhouse clinched a narrow overtime victory at the end. Ike Diogu (204-F/C-83, college: Arizona St.) stepped up with impressive 33 points to lead the winners.
The teams stayed close throughout the first half. The scoreboard read 36:36 at halftime. Great Britain pulled ahead in the third quarter. They eked out a 6-point lead before the fourth frame. However Ike Diogu sparked a comeback rally from Nigeria. The African team denied the deficit and forced overtime. They were on fire in the extra period and sealed the winning outcome at the end. Andrew Lawrence (187-G-90) accounted for 19 points for Great Britain. Eric Boateng (208-C-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Arizona St.) delivered 13 points in the loss.

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PANAMA

Centrobasket 2012: Panama clinch Semifinal birth - by Eurobasket News

Panama clinch Semifinal birth at the Centrobasket 2012. The team overcame Nicaragua 93:60 in Day 4 of the Qualifying Round. Panama took 21:20 after the first period and added massive 31-30 in the second frame. They won also the third and the last stanza to seal the victory. Josimar Ayarza (205-F-87, college: S.Mississippi) erupted with 30 points and Daniel King (203-F-87) added 14 points and 11 rebounds. Solis Walter replied with 17 points in the losing effort and Vansdell Thomas (179-G-86) netted 13.
Last night Panama edged Cuba 94:66 and finished second in Group A. Cuba started with 22-20 after the first 10 minutes and led 1 point at the halftime. The second half however was dominated only by one team-Panama. They needed 26-15 in the third period and finished the game with 28-10 in the last stanza. Josimar Ayarza paced all the winners with 23 points and Ernesto Oglivie (199-F-89) as well as Daniel King netted 14 each. Luis Haiti Yoan responded with 19 points in the losing effort, while Orestes Torres (203-C-87) added 14.

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PHILIPPINES

Standings - PBA Fiesta Conference

PBA Standings

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

Regular Season: Round 17

Jun. 23: Rain or Shine - Petron Blaze 103-82
Jun. 24: Meralco Bolts - Powerade T.
Jun. 24: Ginebra Kings - Talk N Text

PBA Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Zach GRAHAM
  Air21 E.
  (198-G-89)
  Avg: 39

1. Graham, Air21 E.	39.0
2. Sneed, Powerade T.	27.2
3. David, Powerade T.	26.3
4. Harris, Talk N Text	26.2
5. Cornley, Rain o.	24.3
6. Blakely, B-Meg L.	23.3
7. Forte, Alaska Aces	23.1
8. Bozeman, Ginebra	23.1
9. Basden, Petron B.	22.9
10. Caguioa, Ginebra	16.6

Rebounds Per Game

Omar SNEED
  Powerade T.
  (198-F-76)
  Avg: 16.8

1. Sneed, Powerade T.	16.8
2. Forte, Alaska Aces	16.1
3. Graham, Air21 E.	13.7
4. Harris, Talk N Text	12.7
5. Cornley, Rain o.	11.9
6. Blakely, B-Meg L.	11.3
7. Taulava, Meralco	11.0
8. Pingris, B-Meg L.	11.0
9. Bozeman, Ginebra	10.4
10. Basden, Petron B.	8.9

Assists Per Game

Jimmy ALAPAG
  Talk N Text
  (177-PG-77)
  Avg: 8.4

1. Alapag, Talk N Te.	8.4
2. Casio, Powerade T.	6.0
3. Sneed, Powerade T.	5.4
4. Tenorio, Alaska A.	5.1
5. Bozeman, Ginebra	5.0
6. Ross, Meralco	4.4
7. Lutz, Petron Blaze	4.4
8. Miller, Barako Bull	4.4
9. Basden, Petron B.	4.3
10. Cabagnot, Petron	4.0

Steals Per Game

Marqus BLAKELY
  B-Meg L.
  (196-F-89)
  Avg: 3.3

1. Blakely, B-Meg L.	3.3
2. Basden, Petron B.	3.0
3. Tenorio, Alaska A.	1.8
4. Bozeman, Ginebra	1.4
5. Cortez, Ginebra	1.4
6. Ross, Meralco	1.3
7. Graham, Air21 E.	1.3
8. Hatfield, Ginebra	1.3
9. Mercado, Meralco	1.3
10. Sneed, Powerade	1.2

Blocks Per Game

Marqus BLAKELY
  B-Meg L.
  (196-F-89)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Blakely, B-Meg L.	2.3
2. Forte, Alaska Aces	1.9
3. Santos, Petron B.	1.3
4. Baguio, Alaska Ac.	1.3
5. Maierhofer, Ginebr.	1.2
6. Quinahan, Rain o.	1.0
7. Thoss, Alaska Aces	1.0
8. Reavis, B-Meg L.	1.0
9. Norwood, Rain o.	0.9
10. Aguilar, Talk N.	0.8

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

22-year old guard Zach Graham (198-G-89) had an amazing evening in the last round for Air21 Express and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 16.
He had a double-double of 51 points and 12 rebounds, while his team beat Powerade T. (#3, 4-3) 128-121. Air21 Express maintains the 9th position in Filipino league. Too late to salvage the team, which is currently ranked such low. They already lost 5 games and recorded just two victories. In the team's last game Graham had a remarkable 78.6% from 2-point range and got three three-pointers out of 6 attempts. He just recently signed at Air21 Express, being already a very valuable addition to the team. The University of Mississippi graduate has very impressive stats this year. Graham is league's best scorer averaging so far 39.0ppg. Graham is in league's top in rebounds (3rd best: 13.7rpg).

Second best performed player last round was Omar Sneed (198-F-76) of Powerade T.. He is American forward in his first season at Powerade T.. In the last game Sneed recorded impressive double-double of 40 points and 21 rebounds. Bad luck as Powerade T. lost that game 121-128 to the lower-ranked Air21 Express (#9, 2-5). Powerade T. managed to keep the same 3rd spot in the standings. His team's 4-3 record is not bad at all. Sneed is one of the most experienced players at Powerade T. and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 27.2ppg (#2). His other stats are also decent: 16.8rpg and 5.4apg.

Third place about best performers goes to forward Jason Forte (196-F-84) of Alaska Aces (#10). Forte scored 20 points and grabbed eighteen rebounds (!!!). Despite Forte's great performance Alaska Aces lost 81-90 to the higher-ranked Ginebra Kings (#4, 4-3). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. Alaska Aces can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have extremely bad season and 1-7 record places them at the very bottom of the standings. Too bad for Forte he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Forte has individually a great season in Philippines. After only 7 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 23.1ppg (7th best) and rebounds with 16.1rpg (2nd best). He also has 1.9bpg and FGP: 51.8%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Cedric Bozeman (198-G-83) of Ginebra Kings - 15 points, 13 rebounds and 6 assists
5. RenRen Ritualo (188-G-79) of Air21 Express - 22 points and 2 rebounds
6. Nelbert Omolon (196-F/G-80) of Air21 Express - 17 points and 3 rebounds
7. Mark Caguioa (188-G-79) of Ginebra Kings - 22 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists
8. James Sena (196-C) of Air21 Express - 10 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists
9. Gabriel Espinas (193-F-82) of Alaska Aces - 12 points and 8 rebounds
10. Rudy Hatfield (191-F-77) of Ginebra Kings - 6 points and 9 rebounds

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

PBA Round 16: Powerade T. loses to Air21 Express - by Eurobasket News

The most important game in the last round took place in between third ranked Powerade T. (4-3) and ninth ranked Air21 Express (2-5) on Friday night. Powerade T. was defeated by Air21 Express in a tough game on the road 121-128. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Powerade T.. Powerade T. trailed by 19 points after 3 quarters before a 41-29 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 121-128 at the end of the game. Air21 Express made 24-of-27 free shots (88.9 percent) during the game. They also forced 20 Powerade T. turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 25 assists. 25 personal fouls committed by Powerade T. helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a great performance of American guard Zach Graham (198-G-89, college: Mississippi) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 51 points (!!!), 12 rebounds and 6 assists. Guard RenRen Ritualo (188-79) contributed with 22 points (perfect from downtown making all six shots !!!) for the winners. American forward Omar Sneed (198-76, college: Memphis) replied with a double-double by scoring 40 points (!!!) and 21 rebounds for Powerade T.Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Air21 Express maintains ninth position with 2-5 record. Powerade T. at the other side keeps the third place with three games lost. They share the position with Ginebra Kings. Air21 Express' supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in to the arena .
The game between 10th ranked Alaska Aces (1-7) and fifth ranked Ginebra Kings (4-3) in Makati ended with biggest points difference. Guests from Manila beat Alaska Aces 90-81. Worth to mention a quality performance of American guard Cedric Bozeman (198-83, college: UCLA) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 15 points, 13 rebounds and 6 assists and Mark Caguioa who added 22 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists during the contest. At the losing side American forward Jason Forte (196-84, college: S.Mississippi) responded with a double-double by scoring 20 points and 18 rebounds. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Ginebra Kings moved-up to third place, which they share with Powerade T. Alaska Aces lost sixth consecutive game. They stay at the bottom position with seven games lost. Ginebra Kings will play against Talk N Text (#6) in Makati in the next round. Alaska Aces will have a break next round.

Alaska Aces - Ginebra Kings 81-90

The game between 10th ranked Alaska Aces (1-7) and fifth ranked Ginebra Kings (4-3) in Makati ended with biggest points difference. Guests from Manila beat Alaska Aces 90-81. The guests were tied after three quarters but managed to speed up in last quarter eventually winning the game. Worth to mention a quality performance of American guard Cedric Bozeman (198-83, college: UCLA) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 15 points, 13 rebounds and 6 assists and guard Mark Caguioa (188-79, college: Glendale CC (AZ)) who added 22 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists during the contest. At the losing side American forward Jason Forte (196-84, college: S.Mississippi) responded with a double-double by scoring 20 points and 18 rebounds and guard LA Tenorio (178-84) scored 12 points and 6 assists. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Ginebra Kings moved-up to third place, which they share with Powerade T. Alaska Aces lost sixth consecutive game. They stay at the bottom position with seven games lost. Ginebra Kings will play against Talk N Text (#6) in Makati in the next round. Alaska Aces will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Alaska Aces: J.Forte 20+18reb+1ast, G.Espinas 12+8reb, L.Tenorio 12+3reb+6ast, C.Baguio 11+2reb+3ast, J.Thoss 9+3reb+2ast, M.Baracael 7+4reb
Ginebra Kings: M.Caguioa 22+5reb+4ast, C.Bozeman 15+13reb+6ast, M.Cortez 12+2reb+3ast, E.Villanueva 12+3reb+1ast, N.Canaleta 9+4reb, R.Hatfield 6+9reb+1ast

Air21 Express - Powerade T. 128-121

The most important game in the last round took place in between third ranked Powerade T. (4-3) and ninth ranked Air21 Express (2-5) on Friday night. Powerade T. was defeated by Air21 Express in a tough game on the road 121-128. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Powerade T.. Powerade T. trailed by 19 points after 3 quarters before a 41-29 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 121-128 at the end of the game. Air21 Express made 24-of-27 free shots (88.9 percent) during the game. They also forced 20 Powerade T. turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 25 assists. 25 personal fouls committed by Powerade T. helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a great performance of American guard Zach Graham (198-89, college: Mississippi) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 51 points (!!!), 12 rebounds and 6 assists. Guard RenRen Ritualo (188-79) contributed with 22 points (perfect from downtown making all six shots !!!) for the winners. American forward Omar Sneed (198-76, college: Memphis) replied with a double-double by scoring 40 points (!!!) and 21 rebounds and swingman Gary David (187-78) added 28 points in the effort for Powerade T.Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Air21 Express maintains ninth position with 2-5 record. Powerade T. at the other side keeps the third place with three games lost. They share the position with Ginebra Kings. Air21 Express' supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in to the arena .
Top scorers:
Powerade T.: O.Sneed 40+21reb+3ast, G.David 28+3reb+2ast, R.Al-Hussaini 10+6reb+1ast, J.Vanlandingham 10+2reb+1ast, J.Casio 8+2ast, S.Anthony 7+5reb+3ast
Air21 Express: Z.Graham 51+12reb+6ast, R.Ritualo 22+2reb+1ast, N.Omolon 17+3reb+1ast, M.Isip 10+2reb, J.Sena 10+8reb+6ast, P.Hubalde 5+6reb+4ast

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POLAND

PUERTO RICO

Arroyo and Peavy arrive and are expected to practice with Puerto Rican NT: - by Luis Modestti

Carlos Arroyo (188-G-79, college: FIU) and Nathan Peavy (203-F-85, college: Miami, OH) arrived and are expected to join the Puerto Rican National team practices as they prepare for the Olympic Qualifier.

Arroyo comes from winning the triple crown in Turkey by getting the Turkish Cup, EuroChallenge and Turkish League title in one season. He averaged 14.7 points and 4.4 assists in Turkey.

Peavy comes from playing in Artland Dragons where he averaged 13.8 points and 6.3 rebounds in 40 games.

Both join Renaldo Balkman (201-F-84, college: S.Carolina) who has a back injury but is practicing with the team. They are expected to play in the warm-ups against Macedonia on June 27-28 at Coliseo de Puerto Rico and then the Olympic Qualifier scheduled for July 2-8 in Venezuela.

Centrobasket 2012: Puerto Rico advanced to the Semifinal - by Eurobasket News

Puerto Rico advanced to the Semifinal of the home tournament at the Coloseum Jose Miguel Agrelot in Hato Rey. The hosts won over Cuba in Day 4 and finished the tournament with 4-0 record.
In Day 4 Puerto Rico overcame Cuba 95:61. The hosts easily reached 27-20 after the first 10 minutes and added 16-9 in the second frame. Moreover they won the third quarter 26-12 and finished the game with 26-20. Sanchez Ricardo stepped up with 13 points for the winners, while Peter John Ramos (222-C-85), Rosario Michael and Alexander Galindo (200-F-85, college: FIU) had 12 each. Orestes Torres (203-C-87) finished the game with 14 points in the losing effort.
In the Semifinal Puerto Rico will take on Jamaica. The latter finished second in Group B with 3-1 record. Jamaica needed a thrilling 76:74 win over Mexico to seal the Semifinal birth.

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RUSSIA

Alexander Tikhonin leads Russia past Serbia - by Eurobasket News

Russia U20 - Serbia U20 61:56

Russian U20 National Team registered the second win at the international Turgut Atakol Tournament in Turkey. They held off Serbian counterparts for 2-2 record before the final round. Alexander Tikhonin (205-F-92) scored 15 points to pace the charge.
Serbia led by three points after the opening quarter 17:14. But Russia limited their opponents to 7 points in the second frame to pull ahead. Russia gained a 29:24 halftime advantage. They maintained the lead throughout the third quarter. The scoreboard read 47:41 at the final intermission. Serbia tried hard to erase the deficit but Russian hang on to escape with a narrow win at the end. Alexander Varnakov (185-PG-92) posted 11 points, while Viktor Zaryazhko (194-PG-92) and Vladislav Trushkin (201-F-93) accounted for 8 points each in the victory. Djordje Drenovac (203-F-92, agency: Interperformances), Stefan Nastic (210-C-92) and Nenad Miljenovic (194-G-93, agency: Beo Basket) chipped in 8 points each in the loss.

Russia U20: Alexander Tikhonin 15, Alexander Varnakov 11, Viktor Zaryazhko 8, Vladislav Trushkin 8
Serbia U20: Djordje Drenovac 8, Stefan Nastic 8, Nenad Miljenovic 8

Russia slow Germany down at Turgut Atakol Tournament - by Eurobasket News

Russia U20 - Germany U20 64:60

Russian U20 National Team recorded the first win at the Turgut Atakol international tournament in Istanbul. They overcame Germany for 1-2 record. Denis Zakharov (190-PG-93) scored 14 points to pace the winners. Germany fell at 2-1 record after the loss.
Russia pulled in front early in the game. They built a 21:15 lead after ten minutes. Russia stretched the lead in the second quarter. They arrived at halftime up by 8 points 35:27. Germany failed to change the complexion of the encounter in the third quarter. Russia stayed aggressive and maintained the lead. They ensured a 48:38 advantage with one quarter remaining. Germany scored 22 points in the final quarter cutting the deficit but had to surrender at the end. Artem Komolov (191-G-93) finished with 12 points, while Vladislav Trushkin (201-F-93) and Alexander Tikhonin (205-F-92) had 10 points each in the victory. Daniel Theis (207-C-92) answered with 21 points for Germany. Maximilian Kleber (207-F-92) produced 10 points in defeat.

Russia U20: Denis Zakharov 14, Artem Komolov 12, Vladislav Trushkin 10, Alexander Tikhonin 10
Germany U20: Daniel Theis 21, Maximilian Kleber 10

Kuban ready to abandon Ohayon deal - by Anton Zirkov

Lokomotiv Kuban are ready to adabdon the deal with Israeli guard Yogev Ohayon (189-G-87),according to senior source at the Krasnodar club.
The deal with the Maccabi Tel-Aviv guard has been "done and dusted" according to the club officials,but after receving a full picture of the deal,the club are higly thinking of escaping the agreement.
According to senior source at the club,They didn't know that Ohayon has a vailed contract with Israeli Powerhouse - Maccabi Tel-Aviv :"The player was offered to us by his representatives,we had the impression that he was a free agent.we watched him and decided that he will fit to our club and policy,so we strucked a deal with him".
"In the last couple of days we recieved messeges and Documents that Ohayon has a contract with Maccabi for the 2012/2013 and we are open to legal demands if we sign him".
"We didn't know that,we were misled by his representatives.We don't like this situation and we don't want to enter a Legal war with Maccabi".
"We don't want to be a club that talks with players with contracts behind the teams back,its Illegal,With all do recpect to Ohayon,he is still not Navarro or Spanoullis that we will try to fight to bring to our club,to tell you the truth,we didn't know him before he was offered to us".

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SERBIA

Serbia earn first win at Turgut Atakol Tournament - by Eurobasket News

Turkey U20 - Serbia U20 55:63

Serbian U20 National Team earned the initial win at the international Turgut Atakol Tournament in Istanbul. They overcame hosting Turkey to improve at 1-2 record. Bogdan Bogdanovic (198-F-92) accounted for 14 points to lead the winners.
Turkey got to a confident start. The home team cleared off to a 19:11 lead at the end of the opening quarter. But Serbia reacted with a storming 26:10 second quarter to take a 37:29 halftime lead. Serbia deepened the damage in the third quarter. They extended the lead to as many as 19 points with ten minutes remaining. Turkey went on a 14:4 run in the fourth frame trying to save the game but still came up short of victory. Djordje Drenovac (203-F-92, agency: Interperformances) delivered 11 points, while Aleksandar Cvetkovic (185-PG-93) and Nikola Siladi (206-F-92) had 9 points apiece in the victory. Samet Geyik (206-F-93) answered with 12 points for Turkey. Ugur Dokuyan (197-F-93) produced 8 points in the loss.

Turkey U20: Samet Geyik 12, Ugur Dokuyan 8
Serbia U20: Bogdan Bogdanovic 14, Djordje Drenovac 11, Aleksandar Cvetkovic 9, Nikola Siladi 9

Partizna lands top prospect Nikola Milutinov - by Zoran Popovic

Top Serbian prospect Nikola Milutinov (212-C-94) is new member of Partizan Beograd. According to Serbian Sports news young Milutinov sings four years contract deal with Serbian Champion. Nikola Milutinov born in Novi Sad and after his first basketball steps in Novi Sad KK Hemofarm Stada brings him in their junior team. Milutinov was on Hemofarm senior team roster three times this season and collect 3 rebounds. Nikola Milutinov was member of Serbian U16 and U18 National team previous years.

Aco Petrovic on the bench of Unics Kazan - by Zoran Popovic

Serbian coach Aco Petrovic is new head coach of Unic Kazan. First time Petrovic was on the bench of Russian team in period 2007-2009. In season 2008-2009 Petrovic won Russian National cup with Unics Kazan. During the career Petrovic was head coach of FMP Zeleznik, Hemofarm Vrsac, Lokomotiv Rostov na Donu, Crvena Zvezda, Zalgiris and Azovmash. Aco Petrovic was assistant coach of Yugoslavian and Serbian National team 2002, 2008 and 2009.

French and Serbian cadets exchange victories - by Eurobasket News

French and Serbian U16 National Teams exchanged victories during the friendly series in Sumice Hall in Belgrade.
The visitors claimed a narrow 75:73 win in the opener. Sari-Katrin came up with 14 points to lead the winners. Serbia led by as many as 10 points after the opening quarter 21:11. But France went on a 44:22 rally over the next two periods to take control. They withstood a comeback rally from Serbians in the final frame to seal the victory. Eliez delivered 12 points, while Ori had 11 points for France. Stojanovic knocked down 12 points for Serbia. Pavlovic netted 10 point for the home team.
Serbia however recovered in the second game of the series. They clinched a 65:61 win at the end. Pavlovic had 15 points and 11 rebounds for the winners.
The scenario was different. France spurred in front early in the game. The visitors built a 41:26 halftime advantage. France stretched the lead to 18 points with one quarter to go. But the Serbian side unleashed 28:6 run in the final period to steal a tough 65:61 victory at the end. Peno and Stojanovic notched 9 points each for the winners. Alez answered with 18 points for France. Elezer delivered 11 points in the loss.

Alexander Tikhonin leads Russia past Serbia - by Eurobasket News

Russia U20 - Serbia U20 61:56

Russian U20 National Team registered the second win at the international Turgut Atakol Tournament in Turkey. They held off Serbian counterparts for 2-2 record before the final round. Alexander Tikhonin (205-F-92) scored 15 points to pace the charge.
Serbia led by three points after the opening quarter 17:14. But Russia limited their opponents to 7 points in the second frame to pull ahead. Russia gained a 29:24 halftime advantage. They maintained the lead throughout the third quarter. The scoreboard read 47:41 at the final intermission. Serbia tried hard to erase the deficit but Russian hang on to escape with a narrow win at the end. Alexander Varnakov (185-PG-92) posted 11 points, while Viktor Zaryazhko (194-PG-92) and Vladislav Trushkin (201-F-93) accounted for 8 points each in the victory. Djordje Drenovac (203-F-92, agency: Interperformances), Stefan Nastic (210-C-92) and Nenad Miljenovic (194-G-93, agency: Beo Basket) chipped in 8 points each in the loss.

Russia U20: Alexander Tikhonin 15, Alexander Varnakov 11, Viktor Zaryazhko 8, Vladislav Trushkin 8
Serbia U20: Djordje Drenovac 8, Stefan Nastic 8, Nenad Miljenovic 8

Serbian University National Team split games in China - by Eurobasket News

Serbian University National Team travelled to China to take part at Sino-European Challenge Event tournament. They faced the Croatian selection in the opener. Croatia eked out a narrow 75:71 victory at the end.
Croatia eked out a 19:16 lead after ten minutes. The teams traded baskets throughout the second quarter. Croatia maintained the lead posting a 33:30 halftime lead. Serbia denied the deficit in the third quarter. They stole a one-point lead at the final intermission. Croatia unleashed 28 points in the final frame and secured a tough win at the end. Zeljko Sakic (201-F-88, agency: Beo Basket) scored 16 points to lead Croatia. Planinic added 15 points, while Macinkovic contributed 12 points in the winning case. Stefan Stojacic (194-F-89, agency: Interperformances) answered with 23 points for Serbia. Stefan Bircevic (209-F/C-89) had 13 points in the loss.
Serbia rebounded in the second round of action. They took on Montenegrin U20 selection. Serbia proved the strength claiming a 69:62 win at the end. The Serbs secured a 41:25 halftime lead. Montenegro improved their performance in the second half. They narrowed the deficit but Serbia hung on to escape with victory at the end. Milos Dimic (195-G-89) knocked down 16 points for Serbia. Strahinja Stefan Stojacic contributed 11 points for the winners. Marko Mugosa (197-F-93) replied with 21 points for Montenegro. Rajickovic provided 11 points in defeat.

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SOUTH AMERICAN CHAMPIONSHIPS

Venezuela to play the 2013 Basketball World cup playoff - by Wolfgang Lucena

Winners of the silver award of the 2012 South American Fiba Tournament, Venezuela also earned a spot on the 2013 basketball world cup's playoff.
After this great participation on El Chaco, Argentina, The Vinotinto of Venezuela will be flying back home to play an additional scrimmage tournament in Margarita Island, Venezuela which will be good enough to improve toward the upcoming 2012 FIBA Olympic Qualifying tournament that will be hosted on July 2 through July 8 in the renewed and well known Caracas' Majestic Poliedro Arena.

Congratulations Chamos

@Lucena1105

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SPAIN

Mamadou Samb renews contract with Bizkaia Bilbao - by Eurobasket News

Bizkaia Bilbao kept Mamadou Samb (208-C/F-89). The team has reached an agreement on terms of contract extension with the Spanish-Senegalese player. Mamadou Samb signed a new two-year contract with the Basque team. The centre joined Bilbao back in January. He averaged 0.6 points per game in ACB. He started the season with CB Granada. Mamadou Samb recorded 10.9 points, 4.7 rebounds, 1.1 blocks and 1.0 steal per game in ACB. Previously he had stints with CB Cornella, Sant Josep Badalona, and F.C. Barcelona junior team. Eurobasket.com named the centre into Spanish LEB Silver All-Defensive Team in 2009. Mamadou Samb played for Spanish U20 National Team at the 2009 European Championship in Greece.

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TANZANIA

Tight race for RBA League title - by Carlos Pereira

Brown Msyani
The Citizen Correspondent
Dar es Salaam. The battle for the RBA League crown is now a two-horse race between Savio and ABC.Savio underlined their quest for the title and the jackpot that goes with it at the weekend when they stretched their unbeaten run to 17 games.
Sylvain Yunzu had six rebounds, five blocks and buried 17 baskets to lead his team to a 69-57 victory over former champions Pazi at the Don Bosco Youth Centre courts on Sunday.The win took Savio to the summit of the table with 34 points followed closely by JKT who have so far accumulated 32 points.
Last years finalists ABC occupy the third spot (30) and with three quarters of the matches played, they are still considered as big challengers for the prestigious title.In Sundays game, Henry Mwinuka of Savio also had a day to remember after notching 12 points and eight clever assists.
Pazi shooting guards Daniel Muya and Denis Chibura worked tirelessly upfront, but their 13 and seven points respectively could not save the team from falling to Savio.Savio went to the courts brimming with confidence considering their imperious form, but could not outplay their opponents in the first quarter. They won 15-14.
The League leaders returned to the second quarter looking stronger and troubled Pazi with quick but accurate passes to take a deserved 20-14 lead, thus making the scoreboard read 35-28 in their favour.
After the recess, Pazi came with all guns blazing and peppered the Savio area to cut the deficit with a 17-11 win.
Sensing the danger of staining their record, Savio started the fourth quarter fiercely and dashed whatever hopes Pazi had of overturning the score after winning 23-11.
Speaking after the match, Savio head coach Dassy Makula showered praise on his players for their mental strength and expressed hopes of finishing the League without losing a match.
It was a tough game, but my players coped very well with the pressure from Pazi and we won the match. With this kind of spirit, I am optimistic that we will finish the League unbeaten, Makula said.The coach also lauded Pazi players for displaying some sublime basketball skills.

Another game on the same day saw Oilers humiliate Magone 75-45 with merciless Lusajo Samweli hitting 22 points followed by teammate Evans Davids who scored 15 points.

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TURKEY

U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS

Khallid Hart does it all in Brazil - by David Edole

Courtesy:Marist Athletics

SAO SEBASTION DO PARAISO, BRAZIL - Marist men's basketball's incoming freshman Khalid Hart (198-SF-95) put up big numbers on the international stage at the five-day FIBA Americas U18 Championship. Hart led the U.S. Virgin Islands to a seventh-place finish in the eight team tournament.

Hart led all players at the tournament in scoring, averaging 23.4 points per game through the team's five games. He was third in three-point shooting percentage, making 40.7 percent of his shots from beyond the arc for an average of 2.2 per game. He was second in free-throw percentage, shooting 81.6 percent from the charity stripe while taking a tournament-high 49 free throw attempts and draining 40 of them.

The Virgin Islands finished up pool play with a 1-2 record, defeating Mexico and falling to the United States and host country Brazil.

In his first game, a 105-42 loss to the United States, Hart led the Virgin Islands with 12 points, including going 5-7 from the free throw line. He also added two rebounds and an assist while playing 30 minutes.

Against Brazil, a 84-65 loss, Hart was responsible for more than a third of his team's scoring, putting in a game-high 29 points. He was 4-8 from beyond the three-point arc and 7-9 from the free-throw line. He again added two rebounds and played a team-high 33 minutes.

He topped his previous two performances in the Virgin Islands' 81-79 win over Mexico, scoring a game-high 30 points including two free throws with 12 seconds remaining to win it. Playing all but one minute of the game, Hart was 13-16 from the charity strip overall and also had seven rebounds.

After not advnacing to the championship round, Hart and his teammates played Puerto Rico in a consolation game on Tuesday. While they lost by a score of 71-68, Hart again had big numbers, scoring a game-high 26 points to go along with four rebounds and three assists while playing 37 minutes. He was 3-4 from beyond the three-point arc and went 7-8 from the free throw line.

In the seventh-place game versus Colombia, a 77-52 triumph for the Virgin Islands, Hart again led his teammates with 20 points. He was 2-4 from three-point range and a near-perfect 8-9 from the free throw line. He just missed a double-double, grabbing nine rebounds, and also had three steals and two blocked shots.

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UKRAINE

Ukraine topple Hungary at Torneo di Roseto - by Eurobasket News

Ukraine U20 - Hungary U20 79:58

Ukrainian U20 National Team opened international Torneo di Roseto in Italy with victory. They defeated their Hungarian counterparts in the first game. Artem Pustovyi (216-C-92, agency: Beo Basket) came up with 22 points to lead the winners.
Ukraine started strong as they built a 26:12 lead after ten minutes. They stretched the lead in the second quarter. Ukraine accumulated a 48:26 halftime lead. Hungary tried to change the complexion of the encounter in the third quarter. They cut the deficit to 17 points with one quarter remaining. But Ukraine limited their opponents to 12 points in the fourth term and cruised to the win at the end. Vyacheslav Bobrov (202-F-92) delivered 14 points, while Klym Artamonov (183-PG-93) had 11 points for the winners. Csapay responded with 13 points for Hungary. Adam Kovacs (200-G/F-93) and Gergely Gruda (206-C/F-92, agency: TSS Management) provided 10 points each in the loss.

Ukraine U20: Artem Pustovyi 22, Vyacheslav Bobrov 14, Klym Artamonov 11
Hungary U20: Csapay 13, Adam Kovacs 10, Gergely Gruda 10

Vlada Jovanovic takes over BC Donetsk - by Eurobasket News

Vlada Jovanovic (agency: Beo Basket ) will take over BC Donetsk. The Serbian specialist has agreed on terms of contract with the Ukrainian champions. Vlada Jovanovic (agency: Beo Basket ) replaces Sasa Obradovic (agency: Beo Basket ) on the bridge. Jovanovic spent the last two seasons at helm of BC Partizan Igokea Beograd. He led the team to the Serbian League consecutive titles. Vlada Jovanovic (agency: Beo Basket ) also triumped at Adriatic League with the team in 2011. Previously the specialist worked as assistant coach with Partizan. Eurobasket.com named Vlada Jovanovic (agency: Beo Basket ) All-Adriatic League Coach of the Year in 2011. He was also trumped All-Serbian League Coach of the Year in 2011 and 2012. Jovanovic also guided Serbian U18 National Team in 2009 and 2010. He worked as assistant coach with Serbian U20 National Team in 2008.

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UNITED KINGDOM

VENEZUELA

@Lucena1105

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Women News

Belarus gain fourth straight win in EuroBasket Qualification - by Eurobasket News

Ukraine - Belarus 51:55

Belarusian National Team are marching towards 2013 EuroBasket. They posted the fourth straight win at the start of the Qualifying Round in Group A. Tonight Belarus held off Ukraine in Yuzny to stay undefeated on top of the pool. Anastasiya Veremeenko (194-C-87) stepped up with 13 points, 13 boards, 3 steals and 3 blocks to pace the visitors.
Belarus played a nearly perfect defence in the first half. They limited Ukraine to 22 points in the first two periods to accumulate a 27:22 halftime lead. Ukraine tipped off the third quarter with six points in a row to surge ahead. But Belarus responded quickly and gained a 37:35 advantage with one quarter remaining. Tetiana Panchenk-Stakhova (173-G/F-79) put the hosts back in charge with a three-pointer early in the final quarter. However Belarus triggered a 7:3 rally to regain the lead. The visitors used an 8:0 run late in regulation to clear off and protected the lead till the final buzzer. Alexandra Tarasava (170-PG-88) had 9 points for Belarus. Viktoriya Hasper (193-C-88) and Tatyana Troina (188-F-81, college: S.Carolina) accounted for 7 points each in the win. Olexandra Kurasova (186-F-86) answered with 17 points for Ukraine. Alina Iagupova (186-G-92, agency: LBM Management) and Tetiana Panchenk-Stakhova had 8 points each in the loss.

Ukraine: Olexandra Kurasova 17, Alina Iagupova 8, Tetiana Panchenk-Stakhova 8
Belarus: Anastasiya Veremeenko 13+13 boards, Alexandra Tarasava 9, Viktoriya Hasper 7, Tatyana Troina 7

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BELGIUM

Standings - Women

D1 Stage Two Standings

Play-Off
1. Dexia Namur		18-1
2. Kangoeroes-B.		18-4
3. Blue Cats		17-5
4. Waregem		17-5
5. Sint Katelijne		13-9
6. Point Chaud		12-10
7. Houthalen		10-12
8. Spirou Monceau		8-14
Play-Out
1. Castors Braine		1-0
2. Willebroek		1-0
3. Tulikivi Deerlijk		0-1
4. Jeugd Gentson		0-2

Stage One Standings

Gintare Petronyte leads the Baltic side over Belgium - by Eurobasket News

Belgium-Lithuania 62:77

Gintare Petronyte (196-C-89) leads the Baltic side over Belgium at the EuroBasket Women Qualification Round. The Lithuanian team overcame the hosts in Brussels 77:62 as the player scored 21 points.
Lithuania scored the first 5 points in the game, but could not keep the lead at the end of the frame. Raman and Emma Meesseman (192-C-93, agency: LBM Management) brought 19:18 and Van Malderen scored for 26:24 early in the second. Due to 17-13 in the second period, Lithuania however grabbed 35:32 halftime advantage. Later on the guests continued their run and reached 48:40 midway through he third period. Gutkauskaite and Marina Solopova (180-G/F-90) closed the period at 58:48 and then Gintare Petronyte scored for 63:51. Lithuanian added 19-13 in the last stanza to seal the victory.
Sandra Linkeviciene (176-G-82) followed the top-scorer with 18 points and Giedre Paugaite (192-C-90) delivered 11. Emma Meesseman finished the game with 9 points in defeat, while Julie Vanloo (171-PG-93), Noemie Mayombo (170-PG-91, agency: LBM Management) and Sofie Hendrickx (186-F/C-86) brought 8 each.

Belgium: Emma Meesseman 9, Julie Vanloo 8, Noemie Mayombo 8, Sofie Hendrickx.8
Lithuania: Gintare Petronyte 21, Sandra Linkeviciene 18, Giedre Paugaite 11, Marina Solopova 10

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BULGARIA

CHINA

Zhejiang sign Elizabeth Cambage - by Eurobasket News

Zhejiang Far East bolstered their roster. They agreed on terms of contract with Elizabeth Cambage (203-C-91). The Aussie player is expected to earn around $400,000 for four month in China. The centre spent the last season with the Bulleen Melbourne Boomers in WNBL. She tallied 21.0 points, 10.3 rebounds, 2.5 blocks and 1.2 assists per game. The centre also had stints with Dandenong Rangers, AIS and Tulsa Shock during her career. Elizabeth Cambage was named All-Australian WNBL Player of the Year in 2011. She made it into WNBA All-Rookie Team in 2011. She was the member of U19 and U20 Australian National Teams. The centre has been recently selected for the Australian NT for Olympic Games in London.

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ESTONIA

Montenegro cruise to the fourth straight win in EuroBasket Qualification - by Eurobasket News

Estonia - Montenegro 54:86

Montenegro posted the fourth straight win at the 2013 EuroBasket Qualifying Round. They breezed past Estonia in Tallinn to stay unbeaten on top of Group B. Jelena Dubljevic (191-C-87) scored 19 points, grabbed 11 boards and issued 4 assists to lead the visitors. Estonia fell at 0-3 record after the loss.
Montenegro dominated from start to finish. They unloaded 27 points in the opening quarter to take a 10-point lead. Montenegro kept the hosts at bay throughout the second quarter. Estonia faced a 17-point deficit at halftime 26:43. Montenegro continue to mount the lead in the second half. They entered the fourth frame up by as many as 27 points and never looked back en route to the win. Eshaya Murphy (182-G/F-85, college: USC) scored 14 points, while Ana Turcinovic (190-C-93) added 12 points for the winners. Merike Anderson (180-F/G-81, agency: LBM Management) and Kati Rausberg (172-G-89) answered with 10 points each for Estonia.

Estonia: Merike Anderson 10, Kati Rausberg 10
Montenegro: Jelena Dubljevic 19+11 boards, Eshaya Murphy 14, Ana Turcinovic 12

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EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS

Standings Div.A (Women)

Standings

Group A
1. Belarus		4-0
2. Hungary		1-1
3. Israel		1-1
4. Ukraine		1-2
5. Portugal		0-3
Group B
1. Montenegro.		4-0
2. Poland		2-1
3. Serbia		1-2
4. Switzerlan.		1-2
5. Estonia		0-3
Group C
1. Slovenia		3-0
2. Lithuania		3-1
3. Slovakia		2-1
4. Holland		0-3
5. Belgium		0-3
Group D
1. Spain		3-1
2. Sweden		2-1
3. Germany		1-1
4. Romania		1-2
5. Bulgaria		0-2
Group E
1. Latvia		3-1
2. Finland		2-1
3. Italy		2-1
4. Greece		1-2
5. Luxembourg.		0-3

Qualifying Round: Round 4

Jun. 23: UKR - BLR 51-55
Jun. 23: ISR - HUN

Jun. 23: POL - SRB 76-74
Jun. 23: EST - MNT 54-86

Jun. 23: SVK - NED 70-48
Jun. 23: BEL - LTU 62-77

Jun. 23: ROM - ESP 51-68
Jun. 24: GER - BUL

Jun. 23: FIN - LAT 65-62
Jun. 23: GRE - ITA 53-64

Stats Leaders Div.A (Women)

Points Per Game

Taru TUUKKANEN
  FIN
  (190-C-77)
  Avg: 22.3

1. Tuukkanen, FIN	22.3
2. Eldebrink, SWE	21.7
3. Dubljevic, MNT	19.3
4. Marginean, ROM	18.7
5. Twehues, SUI	18.0
6. Petronyte, LTU	17.7
7. Dabovic, SRB	17.7
8. Jansone, LAT	17.5
9. Perovanovic, MNT	17.3
10. Halman, NED	14.7

Rebounds Per Game

Taru TUUKKANEN
  FIN
  (190-C-77)
  Avg: 13.7

1. Tuukkanen, FIN	13.7
2. Teilane-T., LAT	10.3
3. Dubljevic, MNT	10.0
4. Petronyte, LTU	9.7
5. Pavel, ROM	8.7
6. Matic, SRB	8.3
7. Perovanovic, MNT	8.3
8. Iagupova, UKR	8.0
9. Nicholls, ESP	8.0
10. Papamichail, GRE	8.0

Assists Per Game

Jelena SKEROVIC
  MNT
  (176-G-80)
  Avg: 5.5

1. Skerovic, MNT	5.5
2. Dubljevic, MNT	5.3
3. Teilane-T., LAT	4.8
4. Baric, SLO	4.3
5. Karklina, LAT	4.3
6. Jalcova, SVK	4.3
7. Radocaj, SRB	4.3
8. Kochubei, UKR	3.7
9. Erkic, SLO	3.7
10. Eldebrink, SWE	3.7

Steals Per Game

Olga HATZINIKOLAOU
(181-G-81)
Avg: 4

1. Hatzinikolao., GRE	4.0
2. Skobel, POL	3.3
3. Erkic, SLO	3.3
4. Linkeviciene, LTU	3.0
5. Ouvina, ESP	3.0
6. Kubatova, SVK	2.7
7. Oblak, SLO	2.7
8. Dabovic, SRB	2.7
9. Vengryte, LTU	2.7
10. Dubljevic, MNT	2.5

Blocks Per Game

Anastasiya VEREMEENKO
  BLR
  (194-C-87)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Veremeenko, BLR	2.5
2. Pavel, ROM	2.0
3. Nicholls, ESP	2.0
4. Teilane-T., LAT	1.8
5. Petronyte, LTU	1.7
6. Kupcikova, SVK	1.3
7. Paugaite, LTU	1.3
8. Jallai, EST	1.0
9. Piekarska, POL	1.0
10. Vynuchalova, SVK	1.0

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FINLAND

Finland shock Latvia in Vantaa - by Eurobasket News

Finland-Latvia 65:62

Finland shock Latvia in Vantaa at the start of Day 4 of the EuroBasket Women Qualification Round. The Finnish side handed Latvia their first loss and improved to 2-1 record after 65:62 win.
Finland started better and had 7:4 lead in the opening tip. Dionne Pounds (174-F-84, agency: Regeneracom Sports, college: Lamar) and Sten brought 17:12, while Aija Putnina (192-F/C-88, agency: Josep and Nicolas) closed the period at 17:14. Latvia woke up in the second period and Ieva Krastina (175-G/F-90, agency: LBM Management) gave the guests 20:17 lead. Sabine Niedola (184-F-91) improved to 30:22, while Liene Jansone (191-F/C-81, college: Siena) gave her side the biggest lead. Finland did not panic and managed to close the half at 37:34. In the third period the hosts produced a 14-12 burst and trailed 1 point at the end of the third period. Taru Tuukkanen (190-C-77, agency: Regeneracom Sports, college: Xavier) made the last three points for the team at the end of the final period for the successful game.
Taru Tuukkanen top-scored for the winners with 25 points and 16 rebounds, while Heta Korpivaara (186-G/F-84, agency: Regeneracom Sports, college: Seton Hall) added 14. Sten and Dionne Pounds followed them with 10 points apiece. Liene Jansone ended up with 24 points in the losing effort and Ieva Krastina had 12. Sabine Niedola poured in 10, while Aija Putnina chipped in with 8.

Finland: Taru Tuukkanen 25+16 rebs, Heta Korpivaara 14, Sten 10, Dionne Pounds 10
Latvia: Liene Jansone 24, Ieva Krastina 12, Sabine Niedola 10, Aija Putnina 8

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GREECE

Italy stun Greece in Maroussi - by Eurobasket News

Greece - Italy 53:64

Italy claimed a valuable road win over Greece at the 2013 EuroBasket Qualifying Round. The win propelled Italy at 2-1 record in Group E. The Hellenes slipped at 1-2 record. Giorgia Sottana (177-G-88) scored 16 points to pace the Azzurri.
Greece eked out a 14:12 lead after ten minutes. Italy snatched the lead late in the second quarter. The visitors pulled ahead for a 27:26 halftime lead. Greece regained the lead midway through the third quarter but not for long. Bagnara, Raffaella Masciadri (185-F-80) and Gatti gave Italy a 44:41 lead at the final intermission. Santucci and Giorgia Sottana stretched the lead to 7 points 58:51 with under two minutes remaining. Giorgia Sottana knocked down four free throws in the dying minutes to seal the win for Italy. Ilaria Zanoni (180-G-86) and Raffaella Masciadri scored 14 points each for the winners. Peli Papamichail (189-F/C-86, agency: Josep and Nicolas) answered with 15 points for Greece. Zoi Dimitrakou (188-F-87, agency: Josep and Nicolas) had 12 points and 7 rebounds in the loss.

Greece: Peli Papamichail 15, Zoi Dimitrakou 12
Italy: Giorgia Sottana 16, Ilaria Zanoni 14, Raffaella Masciadri 14

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HOLLAND

Bulgaria post first win in Turkey - by Eurobasket News

Bulgaria U16 - Netherlands U16 57:53

Bulgarian U16 National Team recorded the first win at the international tournament in Turkey. They held off the Dutch opponents to improve at 1-1 record. Borislava Hristova (180-F-96) accounted for 19 points to lead the winners. Netherlands fell at 0-2 record after the loss.
Netherlands jumped to an early 7:2 lead but Bulgaria quickly bounced back. They triggered an 18:0 run and eventually posted a 20:9 lead after ten minutes. Bulgaria stretched the lead in the second quarter. They arrived at halftime up by 12 points 39:27. Netherlands took over midway through the third quarter. The Dutch team drew things level at 44. However Bulgaria jumped back into the lead and eked out a 48:46 advantage with ten minutes remaining. Netherlands trailed by a single point 53:54 with less than three minutes remaining. However Borislava Hristova drained a three-pointer and sealed the deal for the winners. Teodora Dineva (175-G-96) connected for 16 points, while Maria Kamburova (182-F-96) finished with 7 points and 8 rebounds for Bulgaria. Janis Ndiba answered with 14 points and 8 rebounds for Netherlands. Emese Hof (188-C-96) had 12 points and 12 rebounds in the loss.

Bulgaria U16: Borislava Hristova 19, Teodora Dineva 16, Maria Kamburova 7
Netherlands U16: Janis Ndiba 14, Emese Hof 12+12 boards

Slovakia rolled over Netherlands in Kosice - by Eurobasket News

Slovakia-Netherlands 70:48

Slovakia rolled over Netherlands in Kosice at the EuroBasket Women Qualification Round. The home side easily celebrated a 70:48 win. Slovak Republic improved to 2-1 record in Group C, while the Dutch side fell at 0-3.
The hosts scored the first 4 points in the game and never looked behind after. They reached 16:6 at the end of the period as Jurcenkova closed the frame with a lay-up. Naomi Halman (191-F/C-86, agency: Regeneracom Sports, college: Cal-Irvine) reduced to 16:13, while Broring cut it to 24:22. Lawless and v meanwhile scored the last points for the winners at the half to take 29:24 halftime advantage. Slovakia also won the third period 19-16 and led 48:40 after 30 minutes. Moreover they finished the game with 22-8 and sealed the victory over their opponents.
Lucia Kupcikova (184-F-84) stepped up with 13 points for the winners and Romana Vynuchalova (192-C/F-86, college: Penn St.) nailed 12. Janka Mincikova (172-PG-89, agency: Josep and Nicolas) finished the night with 10, while Gabriela Kubatova (171-G-84) poured in 9. Naomi Halman scored 20 points in defeat and Myrthe Beld (183-G-89, agency: Regeneracom Sports) had 9.

Slovakia: Lucia Kupcikova 13, Romana Vynuchalova 12, Janka Mincikova 10, Gabriela Kubatova 9
Netherlands: Naomi Halman 20, Myrthe Beld 9

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HUNGARY

Hungary grabbed valuable victory in Rishon Le Zion - by Eurobasket News

Israel-Hungary 46:64

Hungary grabbed valuable victory in Rishon Le Zion at the EuroBasket Women Qualification Round. The gusts overcame Israel 64:46 for 2-1 record. Israel meanwhile fell at 1-2 record.
Hungary took the lead in the opening period and reached 19:9 after the first 10 minutes. Moreover they shocked the hosts with 19-5 in the second frame to feel more comfortable in the second half. Vajda sent the teams to the lockers at 38:14, but Israel managed to recover a bit. Israel won the third quarter 17-16 and then produced a 15-10 final push. Liron Cohen (173-G-82) scored the last four points for the hosts to reduce to 18 points at the end.
Allie Quigley (180-G-86, college: De Paul) top-scored for the winners with 15 points and Dora Horti (195-C-87, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) netted 14. Katalin Honti (175-G-87) posted 11, while Dora Nagy (170-PG-95) and Zsofia Simon (180-G-89, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) poured in 8 apiece. Liron Cohen ended up with 13 points in defeat and Katia Levitsky (190-PF-85, agency: Data Plus Group, college: Villanova) scored 10.

Israel: Liron Cohen 13, Katia Levitsky 10
Hungary: Allie Quigley 15, Dora Horti 14, Katalin Honti 11, Dora Nagy 8, Zsofia Simon 8

Hungary stay on winning track in Turkey - by Eurobasket News

Turkey U16 - Hungary U16 61:66

Hungarian U16 National Team recorded the second straight win at the international tournament in Istanbul. They shot down the hosts to improve at 2-0 record. Debora Dubei scored 18 points and grabbed 10 rebounds to pace Hungary.
The visitors silenced Turkey in the starting quarter. The visitors went on a 22:10 run. Turkey stopped the rot in the second quarter. They narrowed the deficit at 9-point mark at halftime 25:34. Turkey denied the deficit in the third term. Moreover the hosts grabbed a 43:42 lead with one quarter remaining. But Hungary took over in the final period and surged ahead for a confident win at the end. Bernadette Horvath and Fruzsina Weber delivered 10 points each for Hungary. Melis Gulcan (180-G-96) answered with 21 points for Turkey. Alperi notched 9 points in the loss.

Turkey U16: Melis Gulcan 21, Alperi 9
Hungary U16: Debora Dubei 18+10 boards, Bernadette Horvath 10, Fruzsina Weber 10

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ISRAEL

ITALY

LATVIA

LITHUANIA

MONTENEGRO

POLAND

The Polish squad pip Serbia in Krosno - by Eurobasket News

Poland-Serbia 76:74

The Polish squad pip Serbia in Krosno at the EuroBasket Women Qualification Round. In one of the top games of Round 4 the hosts won over Serbia 76:74.
It was an offensive start in the game and both teams managed to show quick successful baskets in the opening period. Serbia grabbed 28:20 lead and led 13 points in the first half. Jovanovic and Jelena Maksimovic (192-C-82) sent the teams to the lockers at 49:40. Later on Poland dominated the court and caught up with the opponents. The created a run as Martyna Koc (186-C-83, agency: Promotex), Weronika Idczak (177-G-89) and Agnieszka Szott (185-F-82, agency: Data Plus Group) each scored to knot the contest at 55:55. Losi scored for 64:63 and Weronika Idczak nailed three for 64:59. Jelena Maksimovic tied the game at 74:74, but Martyna Koc brought an important victory for the hosts.
Weronika Idczak led the way with 17 points and Martyna Koc added 16. Agnieszka Szott poured in 14, whilst Agnieszka Skobel (179-F-89) chipped in with 13. Ana Dabovic (183-G/F-89) erupted with 27 points in the losing effort and Jelena Maksimovic delivered 10.

Poland: Weronika Idczak 17, Martyna Koc 16, Agnieszka Szott 14, Agnieszka Skobel 13
Serbia: Ana Dabovic 27, Jelena Maksimovic 10

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ROMANIA

Spain too good for Romania in Bucharest - by Eurobasket News

Romania - Spain 51:68

Spain posted the third win at the 2013 EuroBasket Qualifying Round. They defeated Romania in Bucharest in Group D action tonight. Spain improved at 3-1 record, while Romania slipped at 1-2 after the game. Anna Cruz (173-PG-86, agency: Josep and Nicolas) scored 15 points to lead the visitors.
Spain opened the game on a 9:2 run. They maintained the lead throughout the opening quarter posting a 25:18 advantage after ten minutes. Spain stayed in front throughout the second quarter. They ensured a 37:32 halftime lead. Romania used a 9:0 run midway through the third quarter to pull ahead 41:39. They established a 45:41 advantage into the fourth frame. But Amaya Valdemoro (184-F-76, agency: Josep and Nicolas), Anna Cruz and Anna Montanana (186-F-80, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: G.Washington) sparked a 16:0 run from the visitors that put them beyond reach. Spain breezed to the victory after that. Anna Montanana accounted for 14 points, while Amaya Valdemoro posted 10 points in the winning effort. Ancuta Stoenescu (169-G-80, agency: Data Plus Group) responded with 16 points for Romania. Gabriela Marginean (182-F-87, college: Drexel) had 14 points in the loss.

Romania: Ancuta Stoenescu 16, Gabriela Marginean 14
Spain: Anna Cruz 15, Anna Montanana 14, Amaya Valdemoro 10

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SERBIA

Serbia bounce back against Turkey in Loznica - by Eurobasket News

Serbia U18 - Turkey U18 64:51

Serbian U18 National Team earned a comfortable win over Turkish counterparts in the second game of the test series in Loznica. Turkey entered the game confidently after the starting win. But Serbia managed to eke out a 14:12 lead after ten minutes. Turkey recovered in the second quarter. The visitors posted a 28:26 halftime advantage. The hosts erased the deficit and levelled things up at 44 with one period remaining. Serbia went on a stunning 20:7 run in the final period to seal the victory at the end. Dragana Stankovic (188-F-95) and Aleksandra Stanacev (167-PG-94) posted 20 points each for the winners. Sanja Mandic (177-G-95) added 7 points for Serbia. Elif Emirtekin (184-F-94) answered with 15 points for Turkey. Hulya Coklar (188-C-95) and Merve Aydin (174-PG-94) had 8 points each in the loss.

Serbia U18: Dragana Stankovic 20, Aleksandra Stanacev 20, Sanja Mandic 7
Turkey U18: Elif Emirtekin 15, Hulya Coklar 8, Merve Aydin 8

Turkey edge Serbia in Loznica - by Eurobasket News

Serbia U18 - Turkey U18 72:77

Turkish U18 National Team posted the first win in the test series versus Serbian counterparts in Loznica. Telin and Merve scored 15 points each to lead the visitors in the opener.
Turkey jumped to an early lead. They secured a 21:17 lead after ten minutes. The visitors boosted the margin in the second quarter. They recorded a 49:37 halftime advantage. Serbia finally slowed their opponents down in the third term. The hosts cut the deficit 8 points with one quarter remaining. Serbia got even closer in the fourth period but Turkey survived the threat and escaped with a narrow win at the end. Elif and Gizem provided 10 points apiece for the winning side. Natasa Kovacevic (187-F-94) and Aleksandra Stanacev (167-PG-94) answered with 19 points each for Serbia in defeat.

Serbia U18: Natasa Kovacevic 19, Aleksandra Stanacev 19
Turkey U18: Telin 15, Merve 15, Gizem 10, Elif 10

The Polish squad pip Serbia in Krosno - by Eurobasket News

Poland-Serbia 76:74

The Polish squad pip Serbia in Krosno at the EuroBasket Women Qualification Round. In one of the top games of Round 4 the hosts won over Serbia 76:74.
It was an offensive start in the game and both teams managed to show quick successful baskets in the opening period. Serbia grabbed 28:20 lead and led 13 points in the first half. Jovanovic and Jelena Maksimovic (192-C-82) sent the teams to the lockers at 49:40. Later on Poland dominated the court and caught up with the opponents. The created a run as Martyna Koc (186-C-83, agency: Promotex), Weronika Idczak (177-G-89) and Agnieszka Szott (185-F-82, agency: Data Plus Group) each scored to knot the contest at 55:55. Losi scored for 64:63 and Weronika Idczak nailed three for 64:59. Jelena Maksimovic tied the game at 74:74, but Martyna Koc brought an important victory for the hosts.
Weronika Idczak led the way with 17 points and Martyna Koc added 16. Agnieszka Szott poured in 14, whilst Agnieszka Skobel (179-F-89) chipped in with 13. Ana Dabovic (183-G/F-89) erupted with 27 points in the losing effort and Jelena Maksimovic delivered 10.

Poland: Weronika Idczak 17, Martyna Koc 16, Agnieszka Szott 14, Agnieszka Skobel 13
Serbia: Ana Dabovic 27, Jelena Maksimovic 10

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SLOVAKIA

Slovakia rolled over Netherlands in Kosice - by Eurobasket News

Slovakia-Netherlands 70:48

Slovakia rolled over Netherlands in Kosice at the EuroBasket Women Qualification Round. The home side easily celebrated a 70:48 win. Slovak Republic improved to 2-1 record in Group C, while the Dutch side fell at 0-3.
The hosts scored the first 4 points in the game and never looked behind after. They reached 16:6 at the end of the period as Jurcenkova closed the frame with a lay-up. Naomi Halman (191-F/C-86, agency: Regeneracom Sports, college: Cal-Irvine) reduced to 16:13, while Broring cut it to 24:22. Lawless and v meanwhile scored the last points for the winners at the half to take 29:24 halftime advantage. Slovakia also won the third period 19-16 and led 48:40 after 30 minutes. Moreover they finished the game with 22-8 and sealed the victory over their opponents.
Lucia Kupcikova (184-F-84) stepped up with 13 points for the winners and Romana Vynuchalova (192-C/F-86, college: Penn St.) nailed 12. Janka Mincikova (172-PG-89, agency: Josep and Nicolas) finished the night with 10, while Gabriela Kubatova (171-G-84) poured in 9. Naomi Halman scored 20 points in defeat and Myrthe Beld (183-G-89, agency: Regeneracom Sports) had 9.

Slovakia: Lucia Kupcikova 13, Romana Vynuchalova 12, Janka Mincikova 10, Gabriela Kubatova 9
Netherlands: Naomi Halman 20, Myrthe Beld 9

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SPAIN

TURKEY

Serbia bounce back against Turkey in Loznica - by Eurobasket News

Serbia U18 - Turkey U18 64:51

Serbian U18 National Team earned a comfortable win over Turkish counterparts in the second game of the test series in Loznica. Turkey entered the game confidently after the starting win. But Serbia managed to eke out a 14:12 lead after ten minutes. Turkey recovered in the second quarter. The visitors posted a 28:26 halftime advantage. The hosts erased the deficit and levelled things up at 44 with one period remaining. Serbia went on a stunning 20:7 run in the final period to seal the victory at the end. Dragana Stankovic (188-F-95) and Aleksandra Stanacev (167-PG-94) posted 20 points each for the winners. Sanja Mandic (177-G-95) added 7 points for Serbia. Elif Emirtekin (184-F-94) answered with 15 points for Turkey. Hulya Coklar (188-C-95) and Merve Aydin (174-PG-94) had 8 points each in the loss.

Serbia U18: Dragana Stankovic 20, Aleksandra Stanacev 20, Sanja Mandic 7
Turkey U18: Elif Emirtekin 15, Hulya Coklar 8, Merve Aydin 8

Turkey edge Serbia in Loznica - by Eurobasket News

Serbia U18 - Turkey U18 72:77

Turkish U18 National Team posted the first win in the test series versus Serbian counterparts in Loznica. Telin and Merve scored 15 points each to lead the visitors in the opener.
Turkey jumped to an early lead. They secured a 21:17 lead after ten minutes. The visitors boosted the margin in the second quarter. They recorded a 49:37 halftime advantage. Serbia finally slowed their opponents down in the third term. The hosts cut the deficit 8 points with one quarter remaining. Serbia got even closer in the fourth period but Turkey survived the threat and escaped with a narrow win at the end. Elif and Gizem provided 10 points apiece for the winning side. Natasa Kovacevic (187-F-94) and Aleksandra Stanacev (167-PG-94) answered with 19 points each for Serbia in defeat.

Serbia U18: Natasa Kovacevic 19, Aleksandra Stanacev 19
Turkey U18: Telin 15, Merve 15, Gizem 10, Elif 10

Hungary stay on winning track in Turkey - by Eurobasket News

Turkey U16 - Hungary U16 61:66

Hungarian U16 National Team recorded the second straight win at the international tournament in Istanbul. They shot down the hosts to improve at 2-0 record. Debora Dubei scored 18 points and grabbed 10 rebounds to pace Hungary.
The visitors silenced Turkey in the starting quarter. The visitors went on a 22:10 run. Turkey stopped the rot in the second quarter. They narrowed the deficit at 9-point mark at halftime 25:34. Turkey denied the deficit in the third term. Moreover the hosts grabbed a 43:42 lead with one quarter remaining. But Hungary took over in the final period and surged ahead for a confident win at the end. Bernadette Horvath and Fruzsina Weber delivered 10 points each for Hungary. Melis Gulcan (180-G-96) answered with 21 points for Turkey. Alperi notched 9 points in the loss.

Turkey U16: Melis Gulcan 21, Alperi 9
Hungary U16: Debora Dubei 18+10 boards, Bernadette Horvath 10, Fruzsina Weber 10

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UKRAINE

WNBA

Standings

WNBA Standings

Eastern
1. Connecticut S.		9-3
2. Chicago S.		7-3
3. Indiana F.		7-4
4. Atlanta D.		4-7
5. New York L.		4-8
6. Washington M.		2-7
Western
1. Minnesota L.		12-1
2. L.Angeles S.		9-4
3. Seattle S.		5-6
4. S.Antonio SS		4-5
5. Phoenix M.		3-8
6. Tulsa S.		1-11

Regular Season: Round 15

Jun. 21: Indiana F. - Connecticut S. 95-61
Jun. 23: Phoenix M. - L.Angeles S. 84-93
Jun. 22: Seattle S. - S.Antonio SS 82-76
Jun. 23: Minnesota L. - Chicago S. 79-67
Jun. 23: Tulsa S. - Indiana F. 70-73
Jun. 21: Minnesota L. - New York L. 102-70

Regular Season: Round 16

Jun. 24: New York L. - Atlanta D.
Jun. 24: Seattle S. - Washington M.
Jun. 24: L.Angeles S. - S.Antonio SS
Jun. 26: Atlanta D. - Indiana F.
Jun. 26: Washington M. - Seattle S.
Jun. 26: Tulsa S. - L.Angeles S.

Storm topple Silver Stars 82-76 - by Eurobasket News

The Seattle Storm rebounded in a big way against the San Antonio Silver Stars.

"I think in terms of frustration level and the overall vibe, that was probably the low point at San Antonio," Sue Bird said of Seattle's 13-point loss on June 9. "I think collectively, we just kind of let that one go in terms of effort. But we've been on the up and up ever since."

That trend continued Friday night when the Storm won their third consecutive game by beating San Antonio 82-76.

Tanisha Wright (5'11''-SF-83, agency: LBM Management, college: Penn St.) led Seattle with a season-high 20 points, including eight fourth-quarter free throws, and added seven assists and five rebounds.

Seattle ran plays to get Wright the ball down the stretch, knowing San Antonio would have to foul.

Wright kept making free throws, including one that initially appeared off before Wright shouted at it and it bounced in.

"Sometimes, you got to yell at it, talk to it," Wright said.

Wright's work late in the fourth quarter, coupled with a 15-0 run midway through the game helped Seattle fend off San Antonio.

Wright's steal and layup with 6.9 seconds remaining sealed the win for Seattle (4-7).

Bird scored 10 points and hit two free throws with 17.5 seconds remaining. Katie Smith scored 13, Camille Little 12 and Tina Thompson 12 for Seattle.

"We were sharing the ball," Storm coach Brian Agler said. "Good to see our whole team being aggressive on the offensive end."

Jia Perkins (5'8''-G-82, college: Texas Tech) scored 20 points to lead San Antonio (4-5).

Leading scorer Sophia Young scored 16 points, despite starting the game 0 for 8 from the field. Young finished 2 for 11, but made all 12 of her free-throw attempts. Becky Hammon added 14 points.

Smith hit a 3-pointer with 1:46 remaining to put Seattle in front 69-62. Consecutive 3-pointers by Perkins kept San Antonio close late in the fourth.

"I thought we did a good job of handling their runs and coming back, we just couldn't get control of the game," San Antonio coach Dan Hughes said.

Bird made a wide-open 3-pointer and Ann Wauters followed with a left-handed layup in the post to increase Seattle's lead to 38-28 just 1:20 into the third quarter. San Antonio called timeout to try and stem the push. It didn't work.

Wright passed to Little for a layup and Smith hit a corner jumper to cap a 15-0 run and vault Seattle to a 41-28 lead.

"We had a hard time containing (Wright)," Hughes said. "She got in the lane on us and not only finished, but created plays. She was the player that kind of broke our back."

San Antonio's Shameka Christon (6'1''-G/F-82, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Arkansas) was fouled by Wright while shooting a 3-pointer, and her three free throws finally snapped the run. The Stars rallied to get within two following two free throws from Young midway through the quarter and were down just five at the end of the third.

The Storm and Wright pushed back in the second quarter after a dismal first. Wright scored in the lane with a minute left in the quarter to push Seattle in front for the first time at 30-28. Another basket from Wright following a long outlet pass put Seattle up 32-28 going into the half. Wright picked up her second foul just before halftime when she was called for a charge.

Smith hit a 3-pointer and a long two from the top of the key to close the gap with San Antonio in the second quarter, during which Seattle outscored the Silver Stars 21-11.

San Antonio led 17-11 after the first quarter because of Perkins. She scored 10 points, surpassing her season average of 8.9, after checking in midway through the quarter. Perkins went 4-for-5 in the quarter, including 2-for-3 from 3-point range.

The Storm struggled in the first. Seattle shot 27.8 percent from the field, missing numerous open shots. Six San Antonio turnovers helped keep Seattle in the game during the opening quarter.

Notes: Former Storm players Ashley Robinson and Svetlana Abrosimova were in attendance. Robinson plays for the Washington Mystics, who are in Seattle to play the Storm on Sunday.
Courtesy of: seattletimes.nwsource.com

Lynx win two to stay on top of Western Conference - by Eurobasket News

Phoenix M. - L.Angeles S. 84-93
Kristi Toliver (5'7''-PG-87, college: Maryland) scored a career-high 29 points as the Sparks took a big lead early and cruised to a 93-84 win over the Phoenix Mercury on Saturday night. Alana Beard (5'11''-G/F-82, college: Duke) added 18 points and Jantel Lavender (6'4''-C-88, college: Ohio St.) 11 points and nine rebounds for the Sparks (10-3), who led by 22 at halftime. The Sparks have won eight of 10, including three straight after losing back-to-back games last weekend. Rookie Samantha Prahalis (5'7''-PG-90, college: Ohio St.) scored a season-high 22 points and had five assists and four steals while DeWanna Bonner had 24 points for the Mercury (3-8). Phoenix, which pulled within seven points in the final 2 minutes, has lost four of its last five. Candace Parker, the league's third-leading scorer at 19.8 points a game, did not play for the Sparks because of a sore knee. Phoenix went on a 17-4 run in the fourth quarter to pull to 79-70 with 4:48 left. After the Mercury cut it to seven, Toliver hit two free throws with 36 seconds left to help secure the win. Beard had seven first-quarter points to help the Sparks get a 20-18 lead after the first. The Sparks scored 18 straight points in the second quarter, taking advantage of poor Phoenix shooting. The Mercury missed 10 straight during one stretch. After tying the score at 20, Phoenix was outscored, 29-7, as the Sparks took a 49-27 lead at the break. Toliver scored 10 points in the second period on four-for-five shooting. Phoenix cut the lead to 70-53 late in the third period before April Sykes hit a three-pointer at the buzzer to give the Sparks a 20-point advantage going into the final quarter. The Sparks have won all three meetings with Phoenix this season, winning by an average of 12 points. Phoenix had just eight players in uniform for the second straight game as second-leading scorer Candice Dupree again sat out with a bruised left knee suffered in Sunday's loss to last-place Tulsa. Backup center Nakia Sanford also was out with the same injury Saturday and All-Star Diana Taurasi remains sidelined by a strained left hip flexor. Phoenix is 2-5 with Taurasi out of the lineup. Courtesy of: latimes.com

Seattle S. - S.Antonio SS 82-76
Tanisha Wright (5'11''-SF-83, agency: LBM Management, college: Penn St.) scored a season-high 20 points and the Storm used a 15-0 run midway through the game to beat the San Antonio Silver Stars, 82-76, for their third consecutive win Friday night. Wright's free throws down the stretch were key, and her steal and basket sealed the win for Seattle (4-7). Sue Bird scored 10 points and hit two free throws with 17.5 seconds remaining. Katie Smith (5'11''-G-74, college: Ohio St.) scored 13, Camille Little (6'2''-F/G-85, college: N.Carolina) 12 and Tina Thompson 12 for Seattle. Jia Perkins (5'8''-G-82, college: Texas Tech) scored 20 points to lead San Antonio (4-5). Smith hit a 3-pointer with 1:46 remaining to put Seattle in front 69-62. Consecutive 3-pointers by Perkins kept San Antonio close late in the fourth. Wright was fouled repeatedly down the stretch to extend the game, but made eight of 10 to maintain Seattle's lead. The Storm struggled in the first. Seattle shot 27.8 percent from the field, missing numerous open shots. Six San Antonio turnovers helped keep Seattle in the game during the opening quarter. Courtesy of: thenewstribune.com

Minnesota L. - Chicago S. 79-67
The Minnesota Lynx appeared headed for an easy afternoon before Chicago got off to a fast start in the second half to make it close. However, the defending champions then pulled away again. Lindsay Whalen (5'8''-PG-82, college: Minnesota) scored 25 points, Taj McWilliams-Franklin (6'3''-C-70, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: St.Edward's) added 12, and Seimone Augustus (6'2''-G-84, college: LSU) and Maya Moore (6'0''-F-89, college: Connecticut) had 10 each to lead the Lynx to a 79-67 victory over the Sky on Saturday. All of Augustus's points came in the second half as Minnesota (12-1) won its second straight after it's only loss of the season last Sunday. Down by 17 points at halftime, Chicago (7-3) scored the first 12 points of the third quarter to pull to 51-46. Moore scored Minnesota's first points of the second half more than 7 minutes into the frame and added a 3-pointer the next time down the floor. Augustus made a 3-pointer to give the Lynx a 62-51 lead. "I felt like we were still getting pretty good shots," Whalen said. "We just needed one to go in and then after that we got a couple fast breaks and were able to make plays out of that. Somebody just had to step up and make that first shot." Augustus finished off a 2-on-1 with Whalen for an easy basket before a spin move and layup by Whalen gave the Lynx a 66-52 lead early in the fourth quarter. The Sky didn't get closer than 10 points the rest of the way. Sylvia Fowles had her ninth double-double in 10 games for Chicago, with 22 points and 13 rebounds. Sonja Petrovic added 13 points and Swin Cash 11 for the Sky, who committed 24 turnovers and lost its second straight to fall to second place in the Eastern Conference. "You give Minnesota credit," Cash said. "They did some good things out there, but a lot of it is what we can control. ... We have to go out there and really lock in and focus on not being so turnover prone." Chicago played its first game without leading scorer Epiphanny Prince. The guard, who was averaging 22.3 points per game, is expected to miss 6 to 8 weeks with a broken bone in her right foot, which she injured last Saturday. "Piph made it easier for us because she was knocking down shots from the outside, so it made a threat from the inside presence to the outside," Fowles said. "Everybody's just got to step up. Things happen like that. ... You still have to step up and play your game." Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve said it was Whalen's best all-around game of the season. "My mindset going into this game was I needed Lindsay Whalen to be good off the pick and roll and get some easy stuff. ... She got the game ball today." Whalen scored five points in a 14-4 run to give the Lynx a 23-8 first quarter lead. She scored seven straight points late in the first half for a 48-34 lead. "We know anybody can step up on this team. When we play as a team really good things happen," Whalen said. "I just wanted to be aggressive." Both teams wore commemorative uniforms to celebrate the 40th Anniversary of Title IX, the federal law that pushed forward sports participation for women and girls. Courtesy of: dailyherald.com

Tulsa S. - Indiana F. 70-73
Erin Phillips (5'8''-PG-85) hit a three-pointer with 16.4 seconds remaining, and Indiana survived a fourth quarter rally to escape with a 73-70 victory over the Tulsa Shock. The Shock (1-11) had a chance to tie, but Ivory Latta's three-point attempt missed with 3.1 seconds remaining to seal the victory for the Fever (7-4). Glory Johnson (6'3''-F-90, college: Tennessee) led the Shock with 22 points and former Oklahoma Sooner star Courtney Paris (6'4''-C-87, college: Oklahoma) added a double-double in 15 minutes off the bench with 10 points and 11 rebounds in her first home game as a member of the Shock. Tamika Catchings (6'1''-F-79, college: Tennessee) led four Fever players in double-figures with 16 points. Tulsa led early, but the Fever grabbed a 4-3 lead with 7:22, and led the rest of the way. Indiana led by eight going into the fourth quarter, but the Shock chipped away at the led throughout the quarter, finally tying the game at 67 on two Johnson free throws with 53.5 seconds remaining. The two free throws capped a 13-2 run over the previous four minutes for Tulsa. On the next possession, Johnson fouled Tammy Sutton-Brown with 37.2 seconds left. Sutton-Brown made one of two free throws, but Catchings got the rebound, and the ball eventually found its way to Phillips, who nailed the back-breaking three-pointer. Johnson responded with a three-pointer of her own, before Catchings hit two free throws for the final margin. The Shock is in the midst of a six-game homestand. Their next game will be Tuesday against Los Angeles. Tip time is 7 p.m.

Indiana F. - Connecticut S. 95-61
Briann January (5'8''-PG-87, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Arizona St.) scored 20 points and Katie Douglas (6'1''-G/F-79, college: Purdue) added 17 to help the Indiana Fever handed the Connecticut Sun one of its worst regular-season losses in franchise history Thursday, 95-61, before 6,326 at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. The loss tied the Sun's franchise regular-season record for biggest defeat (34 points). They were beaten by the Atlanta Dream, 96-62, on July 30, 2010. "They looked like a team excited to play us after the game in Connecticut," Thibault said. "They competed better than us right from the get-go. Obviously shot lights out, 15 3s. I just wish we could have played better." The Sun (9-3) had beaten Indiana in overtime Tuesday, 88-85. Tamika Catchings had 13 points, 10 rebounds and eight assists for the Fever (6-4), who set a franchise record with 15 3-pointers. The Fever had lost four of five, including an 88-85 defeat at Connecticut on Tuesday. "Our energy was not good at Connecticut," Douglas said. "Our foot was full throttle on the gas from the start (in this game). That's the way we need to come out and play every night and set the tone. The game tonight was more about us, not our opponent. Coming out and playing hard with a lot of energy and focus." Mistie Mims (6'3''-C-83, college: Duke) scored 11 points and Kara Lawson and Ashja Jones added 10 for the Sun (9-3). Tina Charles, the league's No. 3 scorer, was held to six points on 3-for-11 shooting. "You know today was their day," Mims said. "They came out very aggressive and created a real big hole that had us on our heels. They played extremely well and their momentum was on the up side again, which caught us on our heels." It was a chippy game that featured five technical fouls, including four against the Sun. Connecticut coach Mike Thibault was ejected in the third quarter for arguing with officials. The Fever scored the game's first 10 points. Zellous scored 11 points in the opening quarter to help the Indiana take a 25-13 lead at the end of the first quarter. Then, the Fever really got going. Powered by an 11-point second quarter from Douglas, Indiana led 57-30 at halftime. The Fever made 11 of 14 shots in the second quarter. The Fever made nine 3-pointers in the first half, a franchise record for a half. The 57 points tied for the second-most in a half in franchise history. Three Fever players Douglas, Zellous and January scored in double figures in the first half. Indiana held Charles to two points and three rebounds before the break. "I was very pleased with our team tonight," Fever coach Lin Dunn said. "We set the tone early. I was disappointed we let the game get away the other night. Our bench did a good job. It was a well-played first half. We did things we had talked about. Our defense set the tone for us." Indiana didn't score for the first 3:40 of the third quarter, but the Fever had a nice cushion to work with. Thibault was ejected after his second technical foul. The Fever led 69-49 at the end of the third quarter. "Today was their day," Mims said. "They came out very aggressive and created a real big hole that had us on our heels. They played extremely well and their momentum was on the upside again." Jeanette Pohlen (6'0''-G-89, agency: LBM Management, college: Stanford)'s 3-pointer in the final minute gave the Fever the team record for 3s. The Fever also celebrated the 40-year anniversary of Title IX, which ensured equality for women across all educational platforms, including sports. Former U.S. Senator Birch Bayh co-authored the legislation that was signed into law June 23, 1972. Fever COO and GM Kelly Krauskopf honored Bayh, known as the "Father of Title IX," during a pregame on-court ceremony before the game. Ann Meyers, vice president of the Phoenix Suns and the WNBA's Phoenix Mercury, was featured in an on-court arena interview at halftime. Meyers was the first woman to sign an NBA free agent contract, reaching an agreement with the Indiana Pacers in 1979. Courtesy of: theday.com

Minnesota L. - New York L. 102-70
It took a quarter to get going, but once they did, the Minnesota Lynx showed that they can recover from a loss just fine. Seimone Augustus scored a season-high 26 points, rookie Devereaux Peters (6'2''-F-89, agency: LBM Management, college: Notre Dame) added a career-best 18, and the Lynx got back on track by beating the Liberty 102-70 on Thursday night. Taj McWilliams-Franklin added 15 points for Minnesota (11-1), which started the season a WNBA-best 10-0 before losing to Seattle on Sunday. 'We wanted to see how we'd bounce back. I think everybody wanted to see it,' Augustus said. 'We had a lack of aggression, but in the second quarter, we showed what we can do." Cappie Pondexter scored a season-high 30 points to lead the Liberty (4-8). Nicole Powell (6'2''-G/F-82, agency: LBM Management, college: Stanford) scored 16 and made all four 3-point attempts as New York lost for the third time in four games. 'This is the hardest team in the WNBA to defend because they have so many offensive weapons,' Liberty coach John Whisenant said. 'They just spanked us. They played like a WNBA champion.' Six of the Liberty's losses this season have been by at least 15 points - four by at least 23, including a franchise-worst 97-55 defeat at Connecticut last Friday. The Lynx have won 12 straight at home since a loss to New York on Sept. 2 last season. The Liberty hit 13 of 26 3-pointers in that game, and it looked like they might have a repeat performance here again. The Liberty made five of their first six from long distance and jumped to a 28-17 lead early in the second quarter. Augustus then scored seven points during a 13-0 run that gave the Lynx the lead for good. 'We started flying around, getting deflections and turned the tide a little bit,' Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve said. 'We really wanted to respond to that loss in Seattle. We were trying hard. Maybe too hard in the beginning.' The 32-point win for the defending WNBA champs was their largest margin of victory this season and the fourth time they have beat an opponent by 20 or more points. Leilani Mitchell (5'5''-PG-85, agency: LBM Management, college: Utah) swished a half-court shot that cut Minnesota's lead to 45-42 at halftime. Nevertheless, despite Pondexter's best efforts, the Liberty never got closer. Whenever Pondexter made a shot, Augustus usually answered. Augustus' 3-pointer capped a 9-0 run that stretched the Lynx's lead to 56-44 with 6:22 left in the third. She had a fall-away baseline hook that rolled around and in and resulted in a three-point play late in the third to increase the lead to 16. It was also a bounce-back game for Augustus, who made just 17 of her last 44 shots before Thursday. 'She just has that gift to put it in the hole,' Reeve said. 'She's very prideful. If you slow her down for a few games, she's not going to let it happen again.' Minnesota also scored the first 10 points of the fourth to push the advantage to 91-63 with 7/ minutes to go. Minnesota outrebounded the Liberty 49-31 and had assists on 26 of its 36 field goals. 'They had 16 offensive rebounds,' Whisenant said. 'It's been our nemesis all year. We can play good defense, but if we let the other team get the offensive rebound, it doesn't do us much good.' Courtesy of: nypost.com