EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 6/26/2012 1:04:01 AM

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


Men News

*****************************************************
  ACPBL   


Standings

ACPBL Standings
Big Apple Division
 1. Hudson Valley 7-7 
 2. NYC 524 6-8 
 3. Toms River S. 5-9 
 4. Manhattan P. 0-14 
North Division
 1. Hartford L. 11-3 
 2. Garden St. R. 10-4 
 3. North Jersey P. 4-10 
South Division
 1. Palmieri Jeans 12-2 
 2. Beltway B. 11-3 
 3. Bay Area Sh. 6-8 



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


Participation in 2012 Olympic Games Guaranteed - by Eurobasket News

Luanda The vice chairman of the Angolan Olympic Committee (COA), Antnio Monteiro "Babino", last Thursday here guaranteed that conditions are set for a good participation of the country in the 2012 Olympic Games of London, England.

Speaking to ANGOP, after the third ordinary meeting of COA, held in the Journalists Training Centre, Antnio Monteiro, who is also the head of the Angolan delegation to the mentioned summer games, said that there are no problems with the country's participation in the event.

"Despite the reduction to USD 4 million, from the initial budget of USD 7.5 million presented by COA in 2010, which forced the adoption of a plan B, we have all the guarantees and financial conditions so that we can have a participation that dignifies our country", he said.

For the London Olympics Angola has already secured the participation of the national teams of handball, basketball, athletics, swimming, canoeing and judo and boxing, whereas beach volleyball and basketball are still fighting for the pass.
Courtesy of: Angola Press


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


France edge Argentina for title in Douai - by Eurobasket News

France U17 - Argentina U17 66:59

French U17 National Team conquered the title at the Douai international tournament. The hosts prevailed against Argentina on the final day of the tourney. Damien Inglis (197-F-95) stepped up with 20 points and 14 rebounds to lead the charge.
France started the game with a stifling defence limiting Argentina to just 8 points in the opening quarter. The hosts established a 9-point advantage after ten minutes. Argentina bounced back in the second quarter. They erased the deficit and even pulled ahead for a 28:26 halftime lead. Argentina stayed dominant throughout the third quarter. The Latin American team fired 23 points to secure a 6-point advantage heading into the fourth period. But France were able to recover. The hosts triggered a decisive 21:8 rally in the final minutes and sealed the winning outcome at the end. Olivier Yao-Delon (193-G-95) accounted for 16 points, while Paul Rigot (199-F-95) added 7 points for France. Gabriel Deck (199-F/C-95) had 18 points for Argentina. Alvaro Merlo (170-G-95) netted 10 points in the loss.

France U17: Damien Inglis 20+14 boards, Olivier Yao-Delon 16, Paul Rigot 7
Argentina U17: Gabriel Deck 18, Alvaro Merlo 10


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

Standings - ABA

State Standings
Big V
 1. Ringwood H. 11-3 
 2. Eltham W. 10-4 
 3. Corio Bay 10-5 
 4. Waverley F. 9-6 
 5. Hume City 8-6 
 6. Diamond V.E. 6-8 
 7. Bulleen B. 4-11 
 8. Sherbrooke S. 4-11 
 9. Melbourne 3-11 
Central ABL
 1. N.Adelaide R. 9-2 
 2. Sturt S. 9-3 
 3. W.Adelaide B. 9-3 
 4. Forestville E. 8-4 
 5. Woodville W. 6-5 
 6. Norwood F. 6-6 
 7. C.District L. 5-7 
 8. S.Adelaide P. 4-8 
 9. Southern T. 3-9 
 10. Eastern M. 0-12 
QBL
 1. Northside W. 5-1 
 2. Ipswich F. 5-2 
 3. Rockhampton 4-0 
 4. Mackay M. 4-1 
 5. SW Metro P. 4-2 
 6. Townsville H. 4-3 
 7. Cairns M. 3-4 
 8. Brisbane C. 3-5 
 9. Bundaberg B. 3-5 
 10. Gold Coast R. 2-3 
 11. Gladstone P. 2-4 
 12. Maroochydore 1-5 
 13. Toowoomba 1-6 
SBL
 1. Lakeside L. 17-2 
 2. Wanneroo W. 17-2 
 3. Cockburn C. 14-6 
 4. Mandurah M. 12-7 
 5. Perth R. 12-8 
 6. East Perth E. 11-9 
 7. Willetton T. 10-10 
 8. Perry Lakes H. 9-10 
 9. Goldfield G. 8-12 
 10. Kalamunda E.S. 7-12 
 11. Stirling S. 7-12 
 12. Geraldton B. 7-13 
 13. SW Slammers 3-16 
 14. Rockingham F. 2-17 
SEABL-East
 1. Dandenong 15-3 
 2. Geelong S. 15-4 
 3. Bendigo B. 11-7 
 4. Sandringham S. 11-8 
 5. Frankston B. 9-9 
 6. Brisbane S. 6-12 
 7. Canberra G. 1-17 
SEABL-South
 1. Knox R. 10-7 
 2. Nunawading S. 10-8 
 3. Hobart C. 10-9 
 4. Albury W.B. 9-8 
 5. Ballarat M. 8-9 
 6. Kilsyth C. 8-10 
 7. NW Tasmania 8-10 
 8. Mt Gambier 4-14 
WARATAH
 1. Newcastle H. 10-2 
 2. Norths Bears 10-3 
 3. Maitland M. 8-5 
 4. Cent.Coast C. 8-7 
 5. Illawarra H. 8-7 
 6. Sydney C. 7-5 
 7. Manly Warr. 7-6 
 8. Hills H. 6-7 
 9. Bankstown B. 5-7 
 10. Parramatta W. 3-9 
 11. Colonial Hotel 3-10 
 12. Sutherland S. 3-10 

Regular Season: Round 13

BIG V

Jun. 24: Waverley F. - Bulleen B. 93-63
Jun. 23: Ringwood H. - Waverley F. 88-71
Jun. 23: Melbourne - Eltham W. 85-79
Jun. 23: Diamond V.E. - Corio Bay 85-101
Jun. 23: Hume City - Sherbrooke S. 104-85

Central ABL

Jun. 24: N.Adelaide R. - Eastern M. 99-88
Jun. 24: C.District L. - Sturt S. 89-94
Jun. 23: Southern T. - S.Adelaide P. 88-83
Jun. 24: Forestville E. - Woodville W. 86-67
Jun. 24: W.Adelaide B. - S.Adelaide P. 81-73
Jun. 23: Eastern M. - C.District L. 70-80
Jun. 24: Southern T. - Norwood F. 69-78
Jun. 23: Woodville W. - W.Adelaide B. 56-82
Jun. 23: Sturt S. - Forestville E. 55-72
Jun. 23: Norwood F. - N.Adelaide R. 53-56

SEABL

Jun. 23: NW Tasmania - Bendigo B. 98-90
Jun. 22: Mt Gambier - Ballarat M. 98-105
Jun. 23: Dandenong - Geelong S. 83-79
Jun. 22: Geelong S. - Brisbane S. 79-60
Jun. 23: Albury W.B. - Knox R. 72-87
Jun. 23: Frankston B. - Brisbane S. 72-68
Jun. 24: Kilsyth C. - Frankston B. 71-57
Jun. 23: Canberra G. - Nunawading S. 69-97
Jun. 22: Hobart C. - Bendigo B. 101-85

WARATAH

Jun. 24: Hills H. - Illawarra H. 83-89
Jun. 23: Sydney C. - Maitland M. 79-59
Jun. 23: Bankstown B. - Cent.Coast C. 78-57
Jun. 23: Parramatta W. - Newcastle H. 74-89
Jun. 23: Norths Bears - Manly Warr. 69-71
Jun. 23: Colonial Hotel - Illawarra H. 61-98

Regular Season: Round 14

BIG V

Jun. 30: Sherbrooke S. - Melbourne
Jun. 30: Eltham W. - Ringwood H.
Jun. 30: Bulleen B. - Hume City
Jul. 1: Hume City - Diamond V.E.
Jul. 1: Waverley F. - Corio Bay

Central ABL

Jun. 30: Sturt S. - N.Adelaide R.
Jun. 30: W.Adelaide B. - Forestville E.
Jun. 30: S.Adelaide P. - Norwood F.
Jun. 30: Southern T. - Eastern M.
Jun. 30: Woodville W. - C.District L.

QBL

Jun. 29: Brisbane C. - Maroochydore
Jun. 29: Mackay M. - Gold Coast R.
Jun. 30: Ipswich F. - Toowoomba
Jun. 30: Cairns M. - Gladstone P.
Jun. 30: Maroochydore - SW Metro P.
Jun. 30: Bundaberg B. - Northside W.
Jul. 1: Townsville H. - Gladstone P.

SEABL

Jun. 29: Geelong S. - Canberra G.
Jun. 30: Brisbane S. - Canberra G.
Jun. 30: Dandenong - Kilsyth C.
Jun. 30: Bendigo B. - Frankston B.
Jul. 1: Sandringham S. - Mt Gambier
Jun. 29: Hobart C. - Albury W.B.
Jun. 29: Mt Gambier - Dandenong
Jun. 30: NW Tasmania - Albury W.B.
Jun. 30: Ballarat M. - Sandringham S.
Jul. 1: Knox R. - Ballarat M.
Jul. 1: Nunawading S. - Bendigo B.

WARATAH

Jun. 30: Bankstown B. - Hills H.
Jun. 30: Cent.Coast C. - Sutherland S.
Jun. 30: Sydney C. - Manly Warr.
Jun. 30: Illawarra H. - Parramatta W.
Jun. 30: Newcastle H. - Maitland M.
Jul. 1: Cent.Coast C. - Norths Bears
Jul. 1: Colonial Hotel - Maitland M.

WQBL

Jun. 30: Rockhampton - Gold Coast R.


SBL: Wolves dismantle Giants to join Lightning on top (Saturday night wrap) - by Eurobasket News

The Wanneroo Wolves have climbed into equal top spot after destroying the Goldfields Giants 109-68.

Last nights win saw the Wolfpack secure their 11th consecutive victory after a rocky start to the game.

Tied at half time with 49 points a piece the Wolves rose to the challenge, a 60 point second half saw the Wolves more than triple the Giants second half score.

The Wolves were led by Damian Matacz (205-C-79, college: N.Michigan) (29 points, nine rebounds) and Greg Hire (198-F-87, college: Augusta St.) with 15 points, 20 rebounds and eight assists.

Bouncing back from last nights loss the Cockburn Cougars took down the Willetton Tigers 102-82.

The Cougars had big numbers from Gavin Field (28 points) and double-doubles from Jeremiah Wilson (23 points, 13 rebounds) and Brian Carlwell with 16 points and 11 rebounds.

The Perry Lakes Hawks had a close call against the Perth Redbacks, rising to victory 111-101.

Redbacks extended their losing streak to four after a neck and neck game.

East Perth Eagles took down the Stirling Senators 107-92, the Eagles were led by Tom Jervis with 29 points and 11 rebounds.

A bottom of the ladder clash saw the Geraldton Buccaneers smash the South West Slammers 101-79.

Buccaneers securing the victory with ten three pointers and solid games from guard Daniel Thomas (27 points) and Aaron Ralph with 21 points.

The Kalamunda Eastern Suns continued their strong form and kept their playoff hopes alive with a 104-96 win over the Mandurah Magic at home.

Star import Lee Roberts was again the hero with 21 points and 19 rebounds while fellow American Taylor Mullenax (201-F/C-86, college: St.Edward's) had 33 points and 14 rebounds for the Magic.

In the women's league the second place Redbacks extended their winning streak, taking down the Hawks 68-52.

Kalamunda are now on a five game winning streak after defeating bottom of the ladder Magic 83-48.

A desperate bid to remain in the top four saw the Tigers take down the Cougars 84-73 while a bottom four clash the Eagles defeated the Senators 65-60.

Article by Hannah Coleman
Courtesy of SBL


SBL: Redbacks win drug action week challenge - by Eurobasket News

The Perth Redbacks men had a 97 to 87 home-game win against the ninth-placed Goldfields Giants in the 2012 State Basketball League Drug Action Week Challenge played on Sunday.

Shooting guard Jarrad Prior won the Local Drug Action Groups Inc. award for the best Redbacks player scoring 19 along with five steals, seven rebounds and three assists.

Redbacks forward Blake Bender scored 26 and had nine rebounds while point guard Joel Wagner (181-G-87) had 11 assists, 22 points and seven rebounds.

Shaun Bennison (78), who played with a leg injury, scored a courageous 10 points and brought down nine rebounds.

The Redbacks men had a 101 to 111 away-game loss on Saturday to the eighth placed Perry Lakes Hawks.

Prior top-scored for the Redbacks with 29 points along with four steals, five assists and six rebounds while centre Michael Vigor (206-F/C-90) scored 20 and had eight rebounds, five steals and four assists.

Bender scored 16 and brought down 10 rebounds while Wagner made 12 assists and had nine points.

The Redbacks men remain in fifth-place in the 14-team competition with 12 wins and eight losses.

The Redbacks womens team beat the Hawks 68 to 52.

This was their fourth win in a row and sees them consolidate second-place in the 12-team competition with 12 wins and five losses.

Redbacks point-guard Rachel Watman was the game-high scorer with 15 along with five steals and three assists.

Centre Marita Payne had nine rebounds, four blocked shots and 10 points while shooting guard Narelle Henry five assists and nine points.

Point-guard Gabby OSullivan had 10 points while forward Jessica Jakens scored nine and brought down four rebounds.

The Redbacks play the East Perth Eagles at the Morley Recreation Centre in an away-game this Saturday with the womens game starting at 6PM and the mens game at 8PM.

Article by Redbacks Media
Courtesy of: SBL


'Aussie' Mike Dunlap hired as head coach of NBA's Bobcats - by Trent Williams

FORMER Adelaide 36ers coach Mike Dunlap has been named as the man to lead struggling NBA team the Charlotte Bobcats from next season.

Dunlap will be charged with turning around the fortunes of the worst team in NBA history.

The Bobcats went 7-59 in a season shortened by a money squabble between owners and players - their 10.6 win percentage the all-time NBA lowest.

Paul Silas was dumped as coach by the Bobcats after they lost their final 23 games of the season.

"Mike Dunlap embodies the characteristics we were seeking in a coach," said Bobcats president of basketball operations Rod Higgins.

"He is renowned in basketball circles as a teacher, developer of talent, communicator and collaborator.

"His energy and work ethic are endless and we are excited to have him in charge of our team."

Dunlap had served as an assistant coach at St. John's University and served as coach for most of last season while regular boss Steve Lavin recovered from prostate cancer surgery.

The Bobcats will have the No. 2 selection in next week's NBA Draft, losing the top spot to the New Orleans Hornets in the NBA Draft Lottery last month.

Dunlap's lone NBA experience was from 2006-2008 as an assistant coach to George Karl with the Denver Nuggets.

Dunlap spent most of his career with US college teams but from 1994 until 1997 he guided the Australian National Basketball League's Adelaide 36ers to a 59-33 record and three trips to the NBL Final Four, including the 1995 Grand Final.

Courtesy of Herald Sun Melbourne www.heraldsun.com.au


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


Austria post first win at Torneo di Roseto - by Eurobasket News

Austria U20 - Hungary U20 77:69

Austria delivered victory on the final day of Torneo di Roseto in Italy. They defeated Hungarian counterparts to finish at 1-2 record. Daniel Friedrich (182-PG-92) came up with 15 points to lead the winners.
Hungary led by three points after ten minutes 14:11. But Austria went on a 22:4 run in the second frame to clear off to a 15-point halftime lead 33:18. Hungary knocked down 27 points in the third term attempting to deny the deficit. Austria remained in charge however leading by 9 points before the fourth term 54:45. Austria withheld all comeback efforts from Hungary in the final quarter and sealed the victory at the end. Maximilian Hopfgartner (206-PF-92) and Filip Kramer (200-SF-92) knocked down 14 points each for Austria. Peter Jakab (187-G-93) replied with 12 points for Hungary. Adam Kovacs (200-SF-93) chipped in 14 points in the loss.

Austria U20: Daniel Friedrich 15, Maximilian Hopfgartner 14, Filip Kramer 14
Hungary U20: Adam Kovacs 14, Peter Jakab 12


Benedikt Danek pens deal with BC Vienna - by Eurobasket News

Benedikt Danek (176-PG-86) pens deal with BC Vienna for the next season. The Austrian Point Guard leaves Arkadia Traiskirchen Lions after 8 years.
In 2000-2001 he started for Vienna 87 (2.Bundesliga) and spent there his first pro years. In 2004-2005 Danek moved to Arkadia Traiskirchen Lions (A Bundesliga) and debuted with 2.4ppg. In
2007-2008 he improved to 8.7ppg, 2.0rpg, Assists-4 (4.8apg), 1.6spg, 2FGP: 54.2%, 3PT: 44.4%, FT: 70.1%.
Last season for Arkadia Traiskirchen Lions (A Bundesliga, starting five) his stats read 7.0ppg, 3.5rpg, 7.5apg, 3.0spg at the Eurochallenge Qualifying Round. In Austrian League after 28 games he averaged 10.8ppg, 3.3rpg, Assists-1 (6.9apg), 1.4spg, FGP: 61.7%, 3PT: 21.8%, FT: 71.7%.
Over the last three years he participated at the Austrian A Bundesliga All-Star Game in 2010 and 2012. He was named Eurobasket.com Austrian Bundesliga All-Domestic Players Team -10 and made it into Eurobasket.com All-Austrian League 2nd Team -11. He was also named Eurobasket.com Austrian League All-Domestic Players Team -11.


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


Ukraine U16 sweep the series over Belarus opponents - by Eurobasket News

Ukraine U16 sweep the series over Belarus opponents. The home side won all three games in the capital.
Eurobasket wrote that in game 1 Ukraine celebrated an easy win. In Game 2 Ukraine grabbed a 70:68 win due to the last period. They started with 17-13 and led 5 points at the halftime, but Belarus grabbed 1-point lead after 26-20 in the third stanza. Ukraine needed 19-16 to take the second straight win. Oleksandr Kobets (192-SF-96) paced all the winners with 16 points, whiel Salas replied with 15 points and 16 rebounds in defeat.
In game 3 Ukraine celebrated a 78:65 victory. They started with 19-12 and added 22-21 in the second period. Moreover Ukraine won the third period 20-18 and finished the game with 17-13 in the last stanza. Balaban top-scored for the winners with 25 points and 14 rebounds, while Sviatoslav Mykhailiuk (194-SG-97) netted 13. Salas and Kandibovich replied with 16 points each in defeat.


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


Leuven Transfer - by Peter Buyse

Stella Artois Leuven Bears today announced the addition of American combo guard Gerald Robinson (185-PG-89) to their 2012-2013 roster.
Robinson just finished his college career at the University of Georgia where as a senior he averaged 14.2 ppg, 3.8 rpg and 3.6 apg. The former Bulldog is a pretty good free throw shooter, making 80 pct of his FT's. He played his first 2 college season at Tennessee State where as Sophomore he scored 17.8 ppg and had 3.9 apg earning him Second team all OVC honors.
The team management also said to still be looking for a 3-4 player as well as someone for the 4-5 position.


Aalstar Transfer - by Peter Buyse

Another player announced by Generali Okapi Aalstar, this time they added American Power Forward Noah Hartsock (203-F).
The former Brigham Young Cougar comes to Belgium with nice senior year stats which earned him an all WCC selection.
As a senior he averaged 16.8 ppg and 5.0 rpg. He shot 57 pct on his field goals and 84 pct of his free throws.
With his 16.8 ppg he led the WCC in scoring. Also led the WCC in blocked shots with 1.6 bpg.


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


14 prepare for U18 European championship - by Maria Mitzova

14 players will start preparations with U18 Bulgarian NT for the European championship Division A. There is one primary group of 12, and two more players will practice with the team.
Head coach Petko Delev gathered larger group last week, and now has determined which ones will continue in the second camp from June 27th. Some minor changes are still possible during the course of preparations.
Roster
Deyan Karamfilov (179-PG-94)
Vasil Mihaylov (197-G/F-94)
Kris Minkov (197-F-94)
Nikolay Marinov (175-PG-94)
Nikolay St. Nikolov (195-F-94)
Nikolay Grozev (195-G-94)
Velislav Galabov (205-C-94)
Nikolay Stoyanov (195-F-94)
Denislav Vutev (206-C-94)
Georgi Yankov (186-G-94)
Anton Dikov (191-G-94)
Venelin Hristov (196-G-95)
Two additional players - Simeon Lepichev and Dimitar Dimitrov will practice with the team.
Alexandar Vezenkov and Kiril Kirilov will join the team after the U20 European championship, Division B in Sofia.
Friendly games with Portugal and Greece are on the schedule for the U18 NT.


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


Canada finish third in Douai - by Eurobasket News

Canada U17 - Croatia U17 88:74

Canadian U17 National Team clinched the third position at the Douai International Tournament. They defeated Croatia on the final day of the competition. Marial Shayok (95) provided 23 points to lead the charge.
Croatia pulled in front early in the game. They accumulated a 24:16 lead ten minutes into the encounter. Canada stopped the rot in the second quarter. They trimmed the deficit to 7 points at halftime 36:43. Canada took over in the third quarter. The North American team went on a massive 37:12 run to ensure a comfortable 18-point lead at the final intermission. Croatia tried hard to return into this one but Canada marched to the victory at the end. Patrick Steeves (201-F-95) finished with 20 points, while Tyrell Bellot-Green (95) added 13 points for the winning side. Mario Hezonja (200-F/G-95) answered with 19 points for Croatia. Ivan Bender (201-C-95) delivered 13 points in the loss.

Canada U17: Marial Shayok 23, Patrick Steeves 20, Tyrell Bellot-Green 13
Croatia U17: Mario Hezonja 19, Ivan Bender 13


*****************************************************
  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 prevail against Serbia in Kunshan - by Eurobasket News

China - Serbia 88:80

Chinese National Team celebrated the third straight win at the Sino-European Challenge Event tournament in Kunshan. The hosts held off Serbian University National Team to stay undefeated. Wang ZhiZhi (214-C-77) erupted for 27 points to lead the hosts.
China got to a flying start. The hosts built a 31:15 lead at the end of the first quarter. They controlled the tempo throughout the second quarter. China ensured a 44:27 halftime advantage. Serbia however picked up the tempo in the third term. They unloaded 30 points in the third frame to narrow the gap at 8-point mark with one quarter to go. Serbia got within five points in the final period but China withheld the challenge and escaped with the victory at the end. Jianlian Yi (213-F/C-87) produced 23 points, while Wang ShiPeng (196-G/F-83) had 12 points for the hosts. Darko Balaban (211-C-89, agency: Beo Basket) answered with 17 points for Serbia. Milos Dimic (195-G-89) netted 15 points in the loss.

China: Wang ZhiZhi 27, Jianlian Yi 23, Wang ShiPeng 12
Serbia: Darko Balaban 17, Milos Dimic 15


China Sweeps Three Games as it Prepares for Olympics - by Arthur Volbert

The Chinese National Team swept three games from nations carved out of what used to be Yugoslavia in a tournament in Kunshan. They will play three more games against these teams this week in Yongcheng. These opponents are youth teams so the Chinese are not playing the top level of competition. But the techniques and talents of these teams are top-notch so China is getting the practice it desires.

China defeated Montenegro 83-55. The starting 5 were Liu Wei, Yi Li, Zhu Fangyu, Ding Jinhui and Wang Zhizhi. Zhu Fangyu was the top scorer with 12 points (4/10 FG% 2/6 3-pointer% 2/2 FT%), 3 rebounds and 5 assists in 24 minutes of action. Yi Li played 14 minutes, scored 11 points (4/5 FG% 3/4 3-pointer%) and 3 rebounds; Wang Zhizhi played only 12 minutes scored 10 points, with 2 rebounds, and 1 blocked shot. Zhou Peng played 22 minutes, with 10 points and 3 rebounds; Liu Wei had 6 points, 1 rebound and 3 assists in 16 minutes. Guo Ailun had 5 points, 2 rebounds and 0 assists, 3 steals in 14 minutes. Chen Jianghua had 8 points, 2 assists, and 2 steals in 19 minutes. Ding Jinhui had 7 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists and 4 turnovers in 10 minutes. Su Wei contributed 7 points, 4 rebounds, 4 turnovers in 21 minutes. Wang Zhelin got only 8 minutes of action, but scored 7 points, 6 rebounds, 1 assist, and 2 turnovers.



Jianlian Yi (213-F/C-87) played his first game this year for China in a 84-63 win over the Croatia U20/21 national team. He had 14 points, 10 rebounds, 1 assist, and 1 blocked shot in 18 minutes of action. The starting 5 were Liu Wei, Zhu Fangyu, Sun Yue, Ding Jinhui and Jianlian Yi. Sun Yue scored 13 points and 4 rebounds in 22 minutes. Liu Wei had 9 points, 1 rebound, and 2 assists in 19 minutes. Chen Jianghua had 9 points, 2 rebounds, 2 assists in 16 minutes. Guo Ailun had 2 points in just 5 minutes.

The Chinese national team narrowly beat Serbia 88 ~ 80 in their last game at Kunshan. The starting 5 were Liu Wei, Wang Shipeng, Sun Yue, Ding Jinhui and Jianlian Yi. Wang Zhizhi played only 14 minutes but scored 27 points and grabbed6 rebounds. Jianlian Yi scored 23 points with 5 rebounds, 1 assist and 2 block shots in 20 minutes. Liu Wei had 6 points, 2 rebounds, 4 assists in 17 minutes. Guo Ailun had 4 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists in 13 minutes. Wang Shipeng had 12 points, 2 rebounds, and 2 assists in 24 minutes. Ding Jinhui had 8 points and 4 rebounds in 19 minutes. Yi Li missed all his shots and had 0 points, and 1 rebound in 14 minutes. Wang Zhelin played for 8 minutes and was held scoreless with no shot attempts and 2 fouls, 2 turnovers and 1 assist.

I would like to thank pryuen of http://www.yaomingmania.com/forum/viewforum.php?f=11 for information contributing to this story.

It looks like Zhai Xiaochuan, Zhang Bo, Han Dejun and Zhang Zhaoxu are unlikely to make the Olympic team. This leaves 13 players remaining and the 12 healthiest, at the time of the tournament, are the ones who will be selected.


China U-17 Team Loses Four Games in France - by Arthur Volbert

The Chinese U-17 Team, featuring 7-1 Zhou Qi (217-C-96), lost 4 straight games in a tournament in France in preparation for the World U-17 Championship which begins June 29.

The nature of the losses raises serious questions about the strength of this team. It certainly did not look like the team that rolled through the Asian U-16 champiionship. On the other hand, these games are practice and China may simply not want to raise expectations after the disappointing performance of the team at the U-19 World Chanpionship last year. We'll know in less that a week which of these notions is correct.

China lost to Canada 99-76 in its first game. The starting 5 were Yang Linyi, Heng Yifeng, Han Delong, Luo Kaiwen and Zhou Qi. Zhou Qi was the top scorer and rebounder. He played 25 minutes, scored 21 points, 11 rebounds and had 2 blocked shots. Yang Linyi, the starting point guard, scored 12 points, 3 rebounds and 7 assists. Han Delong had 13 points,4 rebounds, and 2 assists. Luo Kaiwen: 8 points/1 assist; Guo Xiaopeng had 7 points and 2 assists. Liu Bo had 6 points and 3 rebounds. Ma Bin had 4 points and 2 rebounds. Heng Yifeng had 2 points and 6 rebounds. Zhao Jiwei had 3 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 steals.

The China U17 national team had changed their head coach to Wang Jianjun who used to be the assistant coach. Wu Qinglong, the original U17 head coach, returned to Liaoning to become their head coach to replace the fired Guo Shiqiang. Wang Jianjun used to be assistant coach to Brian Goorjan of Dongguan New Century Leopards for the last couple of years, as well as the head coach for Dongguan's junior team. Tis may be why he used Yang Linyi alot. That's probably why he opted for Yang Linyi, a Dongguan player, at point guard instead of Zhao Jiwei, a Liaoning star who was the second-best player on the U-16 team at the Asian tournament.

China lost to Croatia 101-58. Zhou Qi played 20 minutes, scored 12 points, 5 rebounds and 3 block shots. Ma Bin had 10 points, 5 rebounds. Liu Bo had 7 points, 8 rebounds. Han Delong had 8 points, 2 rebounds and 2 assists. Heng Yifeng had 7 points. Guo Xiaopeng had 6 points and 3 rebounds. Yang Linyi had 4 points and 4 rebounds. Xu Ziyang had 4 points. Zhao Jiwei did not play.

China lost to France 71-49. Zhou Qi played 28 minutes and scored 14 points, with 6 rebounds, 1 steal and 5 block shots. Yang Linyi still started as the point guard and Zhao Jiwei once again did not play. Yang Linyi only scored 7 points with 1 assist. Liu Bo had 7 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists. Heng Yifeng and Wang Zhengbo both scored 6 points. Han Delong had 4 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 steals.

China lost to Egypt 82-76 to finish in last place in the tournament. Zhou Qi scored 36 points, with 14 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal and 4 block shots in 25 minutes. Han Delong had 19 points, 1 rebound, 2 assists and 2 steals. Wang Zhengbo had 11 points. Heng Yifeng 5 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 steals. Xu Ziyang and Ma Bin scored 2 points apiece.

So the U-17 team looked nothing like the team that swept the Asian tournament. Is the new coach the problem? Are the players, some of whom are new, not nearly as good as they appeared to be last year? Or is the team merely playing possum and wishing to surprise at the World Championship rather than disappoint?


Egypt clinch fifth spot in Douai - by Eurobasket News

Egypt U17 - China U17 82:76

Egypt finished their Douai World Cup international tournament on a high note. They knocked down China to finish in the fifth position. Ahmed Mohamed Mahmoud (95) stepped up with 24 points and 8 rebounds to lead the winners.
China started the game strong. They outscored the African opponents for 23:12 lead ten minutes into the game. China maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. They ensured a 47:36 halftime advantage. But Egypt turned things around in the third frame. They went on a rally that put them up by one point heading into the fourth period 58:57. Egypt knocked down 24 points in the final frame and sealed the victory at the end. Ehab Mohamed (185-G-95) dropped 16 points for the winners. Walid Ahmed (185-F/G-95) finished with 8 points for Egypt. Zhou Qi (215-C-96) poured in game-high 36 points and pulled down 14 boards for China. Han Delong (192-F-95) added 19 points in the loss.

Egypt U17: Ahmed Mohamed Mahmoud 24, Ehab Mohamed 16, Walid Ahmed 8
China U17: Zhou Qi 36, Han Delong 19


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


Canada finish third in Douai - by Eurobasket News

Canada U17 - Croatia U17 88:74

Canadian U17 National Team clinched the third position at the Douai International Tournament. They defeated Croatia on the final day of the competition. Marial Shayok (95) provided 23 points to lead the charge.
Croatia pulled in front early in the game. They accumulated a 24:16 lead ten minutes into the encounter. Canada stopped the rot in the second quarter. They trimmed the deficit to 7 points at halftime 36:43. Canada took over in the third quarter. The North American team went on a massive 37:12 run to ensure a comfortable 18-point lead at the final intermission. Croatia tried hard to return into this one but Canada marched to the victory at the end. Patrick Steeves (201-F-95) finished with 20 points, while Tyrell Bellot-Green (95) added 13 points for the winning side. Mario Hezonja (200-F/G-95) answered with 19 points for Croatia. Ivan Bender (201-C-95) delivered 13 points in the loss.

Canada U17: Marial Shayok 23, Patrick Steeves 20, Tyrell Bellot-Green 13
Croatia U17: Mario Hezonja 19, Ivan Bender 13


Croatia B edge Montenegro U20 in China - by Eurobasket News

Croatia B - Montenegro U20 81:71

Croatian B National Team celebrated victory over Montenegrin U20 National Team at the Sino-European Challenge Event tournament in China. Darko Planinic (211-C-90) stepped up with 18 points to lead the winners.
The teams exchanged baskets throughout the opening quarter. The scoreboard read 19:19 after ten minutes. Croatia exploded with 26 points in the second quarter to pull ahead. They built a 3-point halftime lead 45:42. Croatia maintained the advantage throughout the third quarter. Croatia arrived at the final intermission up by 6 points 62:56. They did not slow down in the fourth quarter and rolled to the victory at the end. Pavle Marcinkovic (197-G-89) accounted for 12 points, while Zeljko Sakic (201-F-88, agency: Beo Basket) had 14 in the winning case. Marko Mugosa (197-F-93) answered with game-high 26 points for Montenegro. Danilo Nikolic (201-C-93) netted 18 points in the loss.

Croatia B: Darko Planinic 18, Zeljko Sakic 14, Pavle Marcinkovic 12
Montenegro U20: Marko Mugosa 26, Danilo Nikolic 18


*****************************************************
  CYPRUS   


Decides to finish his career in Enad! - by Dr. Nasios Orinos

Among the best Cypriot players ever played the game and one of Cyprus most charismatic players, in the twilight of a brilliant career, Giorgos Anastasiadis (194-SF-77) has decided to finish where he started!

These last few weeks George was approached by Apoel and he was offered a one year contract from Etha. After serious thinking and after been offered a 2- year contract he has decided to move to his old dens, and help Enad for the last two years of his career.

"I think I have nothing else to prove. I have been playing since I was 16 years old and I have played for many teams. It is time for me to go back where I started and help the younger guys in any way I can. Enad has always been a taught team and this is what we are planning to do next year", George has stated to us.

Where he started

George has started his career in Agios Dometions and in Enad when he first joined the men's team in the age of 16. In his early stages he was distinguished for his great ability to score, especially from the perimeter, something that has kept until today. George is also known for his great defensive skills. In the years to follow many of his coaches, like Memos Ioannou, have trusted him with many defensive missions which he executed successfully.

The last few years and due to his experience George has become more matured and has developed great leadership qualities with which has injected his last team, Etha. With Etha George has won two championships, a cup and a super-cup. In the year 2010-2011 he was also awarded as the "Domestic Player" of the year.

"this guy is amazing" Masamba stated about George just after last year's final against Keravnos, probably meaning that indeed George has pushed the team with his experience.

History

A lot was written and said as to whether titles follow him around. Truth be told - none of it is coincidental. So far he has won 5 cups, 7 championships and 3 super-cups. History will remember that George has won 5 championships in a row, with 3 different teams.

Other news
In another new, Enad has also signed Tolis Kaskiris for the next 2 years.


*****************************************************
  DENMARK   


Denmark U20 completes Vantaa tour - by Eurobasket News

Denmark U20 completes Vantaa tour with 2-1 record and finished third. Sweden wins Nordic Championship of Men U20 with 4 participating teams.
In Day 1 Denmark U20 surprised Sweden U20 62:60. The latter led 16-11 after the first 10 minutes, but lost all three other quarters. Denmark needed 22-21 in the last one to seal the victory in the opener. Kevin Larsen (204-F-93) top-scored for the winners with 29 points and Anders Haas (185-PG-92) netted 13. Viktor Gaddefors (203-SF-92) replied with 17 points, while Charles Barton and Sebastian Norman scored 11 each.
Finland U20 edged Denmark U20 87:74. Markus Molenius (203-F-92) led the way with 22 points, while Villematti Kopio poured in 21. Kevin Larsen replied with 21 points in defeat and Esben Reinholt (196-G-93) brought 14.
In Day 3 Denmark U20 rolled over Norway U20 93:58. The winners looked better in the entire game and won the first three quarters. Kevin Larsen top-scored for the winners with 20 points, while Philip Hertz netted 19. Bouna Ndiaye (195-SG-92) scored 22 points for Norway and Jakob Baiden nailed 13.


Jonas Bro extends with Horsholm - by Eurobasket News

Jonas Bro (186-PG-87) remained player of Horsholm. He extended the deal with the team. The guard joined the 79ers at the start of the last season. He notched 5.9 points, 2.6 assists and 1.9 rebounds per appearance. Previously Jonas Bro had stints with SISU and Falcon.


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


National Team Update: Coach Cal Is Pleased - by Ozell Wells

DOM - Calipari pleased after win over 'friendly' rivals
SAN JUAN (FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament) - There appears to be a genuine sense of camaraderie and mutual respect that has developed the past several years between the Dominican Republic and their Caribbean brothers Puerto Rico, a couple of sides that have squared off in some vitally important games.

Puerto Rico beat the Dominicans in the 2008 Centrobasket Semi-Finals in Mexico before capturing the title and they downed the Dominicans again in 2010 in Santo Domingo in the Final.

On Sunday, the Dominicans and Puerto Ricans went at it again in the championship game of the 2012 Centrobasket and this time, the John Calipari -coach Dominicans won, 80-72.

"We were finally able to avenge that," said Dominican Republic captain Jack Michael Martinez (203-F/C-81, agency: Paris Global Sports).

"They beat us in Santo Domingo and now we responded.

"We have always have good battles against them."

The Dominicans won their bronze-medal clash with Puerto Rico at the 2011 FIBA Americas Championship in Argentina, too.

While the 2012 Centrobasket title is worth celebrating, Calipari and his players know the event was mainly a tune-up for the 12-team FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Caracas.

At the OQT, which tips off 2 July, Puerto Rico will take on Greece and Jordan in Group A and the Dominicans will face Russia and Korea in Group C.

John Calipari , who is one of the greats in American college basketball at the University of Kentucky, the side he led to the 2012 NCAA Championship, said: "Puerto Rico played well from a physical standpoint, but missed shots that usually they don't.

"They never gave up and neither did we.

"It was a dogfight throughout the game."

Al Horford and Francisco Garcia get a lot of attention when it comes to the Dominican Republic because they are NBA players, but Calipari highlighted the play of others.

"Manuel Fortuna, Juan Coronado played great and Jack Michael Martinez was a beast," Calipari said.

"They always responded when we needed big baskets.

"Now we just have to prepare for the Pre-Olympic tournament."

And looking ahead to Caracas, Calipari said: "My wish is not just that the Dominican Republic qualify but also that Puerto Rico goes through so that both teams get to play at the Olympics."

FIBA



*****************************************************
  EGYPT   


Egypt clinch fifth spot in Douai - by Eurobasket News

Egypt U17 - China U17 82:76

Egypt finished their Douai World Cup international tournament on a high note. They knocked down China to finish in the fifth position. Ahmed Mohamed Mahmoud (95) stepped up with 24 points and 8 rebounds to lead the winners.
China started the game strong. They outscored the African opponents for 23:12 lead ten minutes into the game. China maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. They ensured a 47:36 halftime advantage. But Egypt turned things around in the third frame. They went on a rally that put them up by one point heading into the fourth period 58:57. Egypt knocked down 24 points in the final frame and sealed the victory at the end. Ehab Mohamed (185-G-95) dropped 16 points for the winners. Walid Ahmed (185-F/G-95) finished with 8 points for Egypt. Zhou Qi (215-C-96) poured in game-high 36 points and pulled down 14 boards for China. Han Delong (192-F-95) added 19 points in the loss.

Egypt U17: Ahmed Mohamed Mahmoud 24, Ehab Mohamed 16, Walid Ahmed 8
China U17: Zhou Qi 36, Han Delong 19


*****************************************************
  EL SALVADOR   


Denver and San Marcos meeting in Final Series - by Jaime Arevalo

Both Denver and San Marcos eliminated in Semifinal Leones-Automoto and Utec, respectively, with a clear 2-0 score.
On Saturday, June 23 started the Apertura Final Series, with a triumph of San Marcos that now leads 1-0.
The game was very close, the first half ended 48-41 for San Marcos, but Denver had won 1st Quarter 21-19. The regulation ended 100-100, and San Marcos needed of an overtime to claim the win.The final score was 112-109, veteran Oscar Rivera (190-F-80) was the man of the game with 42 pts, Edwin Lopez (183-G/F-85) added 36 pts and 5 steals, robos. Fabio Molina (195-G/F-81) shined he too, with 18 rebounds and 2 blocked shots.
The best in Denver were Mauricio Lahud (176-PG-84) with 23 pts, Bob Hunter (193-F-76) and Leonardo Gomez, with 19 points apiece. Hector Ceron (191-F-81) added 13 pts and 13 rebs his own.
Game 2 will be played tonight at 7:00 pm


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


Partizan announced the return of Dusko Vujosevic - by Eurobasket News

Partizan announced the return of Dusko Vujosevic (agency: Beo Basket ) after two seasons. The Montenegrin Head Coach is back to the Serbian champions.
In 2010 Dusko Vujosevic (agency: Beo Basket ) took over CSKA and became a Head Coach of the team for 2010/2011 season. The coach arrived from Partizan Beograd when he spent almost 10 years. In 2001 he was in Radnicki Beograd and then moved to Partizan Beograd. In 2009 with Partizan his team reached glory and a loud name not only in Europe but in the world as well. Together with the team he became Radivoj Korac (Serbian Cup) Winner -08, 09, 10, Eurobasket.com All-Adriatic League Coach of the Year -08, 09, 10, Adriatic League Regular Season Champion -08, 09, reached Euroleague Quarterfinals -08, 09, became Eurobasket.com All-Serbian League Coach of the Year -08, 09, 10, Eurobasket.com All-Euroleague Coach of the Year -10 and reached Euroleague Final Four -10.


NBA Europe Live tour 2012: Mavs and Celtics in Europe - by Diamadis Farmakis

For another time, great NBA teams will visit our continent for a series of excibition games, to compete with the European teams. This time, is two former NBA champion franchises, the Boston Celtics and the Dallas Mavericks of the National Basketball Association (NBA).

Against them, will be the top Euroleague Basketball teams Alba Berlin from Germany, EA7 Emporio Armani from Italy, and Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul from Turkey, as they will play a series of preseason games this October as part of NBA Europe Live 2012 presented by BBVA, the NBA, Euroleague Basketball, and BBVA announced today.

The four-game tour tips off on Oct. 5 when the 17-time NBA Champion Boston Celtics play five-time Turkish Champions Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul at the newly opened, state-of-the-art Ulker Sports Arena in Istanbul, Turkey.

The highly successful O2 World in Berlin, Germany, will be the venue for the homecoming of German national basketball hero Dirk Nowitzki (213-F-78), as the 2011 NBA Champion Dallas Mavericks take on eight-time German Champions Alba Berlin on Oct. 6.

Next stop is Milan, Italy, where 25-time Italian Champions EA7 Emporio Armani will match up against the legendary Celtics at the Mediolanum Forum on Oct.7. The Mavericks will also play an additional game in Spain with details to be announced in the near future.

Following the NBA Europe Live Tour 2012, over 450,000 fans will have attended 32 Europe Live games in 12 cities since the inaugural NBA Europe Live series that took place in 2006. In total, 60 games featuring 25 NBA teams will have been played in 18 cities in Europe since 1988.



*****************************************************
  FIBA AMERICAS U18   


Latinbasket.com All-FIBA Americas U18 - by Eurobasket Center

Best Player: Julius Randle (203-F-94) of High School USA
Best Guard: Marcus Smart (191-G-94) of Oklahoma St. USA
Best Forward: Julius Randle (203-F-94) of High School USA
Best Center: Lucas Dias (205-C-96) of Pinheiros/Sky Brazil
Best Coach: Billy Donovan of Florida USA

1st Team
G: Marcus Smart (191-94) of Oklahoma St. USA
G: Jose Estrada (190-94) of High School USA
SF: Khalid Hart (198-95) of High School USA
F: Andrew Wiggins (202-95) of High School Canada
F: Julius Randle (203-94) of High School USA

2nd Team
G: Rasheed Sulaimon (193-94) of Duke USA
G: Xavier Rathan-Mayes (193-94) of
F/C: Trey Lyles (206-94) of
F/C: Gabriel Deck (199-95) of Quimsa Argentina
C/F: Tony Trocha (206-94) of

Honorable Mention
Angel Rivera-Cuencas (170-PG) of High School USA
Kevin Cuesta (94)
Evandro Ramos (185-PG-95) of Winner/Limeira Brazil
Tyler Ennis (188-G-94)
Shaquille Goodwin (203-F-94) of Memphis USA
Arthur Fernandes (182-PG-95) of Palmeiras Brazil


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


Finnish U16 National Team - by Ernest

4 Maria Hiekkamaki
*5 Emilia Helle
6 Nina Augustin
7 Olivia Moskari
*8 Veera Valimaa
9 Ninni Salmi
10 Taru Pekkala
*11 Elina Koskimies
*12 Lotta Erakangas
13 Iina Salmenkivi
*14 Tuuli Menna
15 Elise Kleimola

Antti Koskelainen
Jyrki Suhonen


Finnish U16 National Team - by Ernest

4 Maria Hiekkamaki
*5 Emilia Helle
6 Nina Augustin
7 Olivia Moskari
*8 Veera Valimaa
9 Ninni Salmi
10 Taru Pekkala
*11 Elina Koskimies
*12 Lotta Erakangas
13 Iina Salmenkivi
*14 Tuuli Menna
15 Elise Kleimola


Finnish U16 National Team - by Ernest

Starting five
#s#
Veera Valimaa
Valimaa
Lotta Erakangas
Erakangas
Tuuli Menna
Menna
Ninni Salmi
Salmi
Elise Kleimola
Kleimola
#e#5
4Maria Hiekkamaki 175-G-97 BC Nokia Finland
5Emilia Helle 169-PG-96 Honka Akatemia Finland
6Nina Augustin 164-PG-97
7Olivia Moskari 175-F-96 Helmi Capitals Finland
8Veera Valimaa 182-F-96 Pyrinto Finland
9Ninni Salmi 182-F-96 Helmi Capitals Finland
10Taru Pekkala 173-F-96 Honka Akatemia Finland
11Elina Koskimies 180-F-96 Helmi Capitals Finland
12Lotta Erakangas 183-F-97 EBT Akatemia Finland
13Iina Salmenkivi 184-C-97
14Tuuli Menna 183-F-96 Honka Akatemia Finland
15Elise Kleimola 187-C-96


Antti Koskelainen Head Coach

Jyrki Suhonen Assistant



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


Nanterre keep Stephen Brun - by Eurobasket News

Nanterre secured the services of Stephen Brun (202-F-80) of the next season. The forward has agreed on terms of contract extension with the team. Stephen Brun joined Nanterre at the start of the previous season. He tallied 7.6 points, 3.7 rebounds and 1.3 assists per appearance. Previously Stephen brun had stints in France, Croatia and Switzerland. Eurobasket.com named Stephen Brun All-French ProB Domestic Player of the Year in 2005. He made it into French ProA All-Newcomers Team in 2006. Stephen Brun used to play for U20 and U21 French National Teams. The forward joined the French National Team in 2008. He participated at 2009 EuroBasket Qualifying Round with Les Bleus.


Dino Erceg joins the forces of Rueil - by Eurobasket News

Dino Erceg (203-F-85) joins the forces of Rueil for the next season. The Croatian player moves to France from Romania.
In 2000-2002 he started his career for KK Zagreb and later played for KK Split, Autolimlak (A2), Zagorje Tehnobeton. In 2006-2007 he moved to Lappeenranta NMKY (Finland-Korisliiga, starting five) and the played for Maksimir Zagreb (A2). In 22 games Dino averaged 24.3ppg, 8.1rpg, 3.3apg, 2.6spg.
In 2007-2008 for Maksimir Zagreb (A2, starting five) he showed 22.1ppg, 10.2rpg, 2.9apg, while in 2008-2009 had 22.6ppg, 10.4rpg, 2.8apg.
In 2009-2010 Dino Erceg moved to Alkar Sinj (A2, starting five) and had 19.5ppg, 9.4rpg, 2.1apg. In 2010-2011 for Alkar Sinj (A1) his stats read 6.5ppg, 3.3rpg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 33.6%, FT: 50.0%.
In 2011-2012 moved to BC Perla Harghitei Miercurea Ciuc (Romania-Div.A) and in 28 games averaged 12.9ppg, 7.0rpg, FGP: 41.4%, 3PT: 40.7%, FT: 75.4%.


Jordan Arlin moves to Monaco, while A'Nsi Lema signs with Saint Brieuc - by Eurobasket News

Jordan Arlin moves to Monaco, while A'Nsi Lema signs with Saint Brieuc.

Jordan Arlin (182-G-89) moves to Monaco for the next season. In 2007-2008 he signed at SPO Rouen Basket U21 team and in 2010-2011 moved to ADA Blois Basket (NM1). In his first season there he averaged 3.1ppg, 1.6rpg, 1.5apg. In 2011-2012 for ADA Blois Basket (NM1) his stats read 1.7ppg, 1.2apg.
A'Nsi Lema (197-G/F-84) signs with Saint Brieuc for 2012/2013 season. In 2008-2009 he joined Golbey Espinal Thaon Vosges (NM1) and averaged 11.6ppg, 3.7rpg, 2.3apg, 1.2spg, 2FGP: 48.0%, 3PT: 41.0%, FT: 84.0%.
In 2009-2010 for Golbey Espinal Thaon Vosges (NM1) he had 9.8ppg, 4.7rpg, 1.6bpg, 2FGP: 47.0%, 3PT: 32.2%, FT: 72.7%, while in 2010-2011 his stats read 8.6ppg, 5.3rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 46.4%, 3PT: 26.9%, FT: 71.6%.
In 2011-2012 A'Nsi Lema signed with Cognac BB (NM1) and in 31 games showed 3.8ppg, 2.7rpg, 1.3apg.


Kyle McAlarney remain with Limoges CSP Elite - by Eurobasket News

Kyle McAlarney (185-G-87, college: Notre Dame) remain with Limoges CSP Elite for the next season. The American Guard will stay with Pro B Champions.
Last year Kyle McAlarney became a new member of CSP Limoges. The American point guard penned a one-year deal with his new team. He arrived to Limoges from Ikaros Kallitheas, where he spent the earlier season. For 25 games in Greek A1 league McAlarney averaged 12.8 points, 1.6 rebounds and 2 assists. Season 2009/10 he split between Fort Wayne Mad Ants and Springfield Armor. Both competed in NBA D-League. With the Mad Ants, McAlarney had 10.5 ppg, 2.3 rpg and 3 apg for 23 games. Later with Springfield he added 11.3 ppg, 2.9 rpg, 5.1 apg and 1.4 spg. Kyle McAlarney is a product of the Notre Dame University. He graduated there in 2009. For 36 games as a senior McAlarney collected 15 ppg, 2.6 rpg and 3.4 apg.
In 2011-2012 for Limoges CSP Elite (France-ProB, starting five) he averaged 12.9ppg, 1.6rpg, 2.6apg, FGP: 52.9%, 3PT-1 (51.8%), FT: 89.6%.


Tony Parker may miss Olympics due to eye injury from Drake vs Chris Brown fight - by Eurobasket News

French basketball team leader Tony Parker (6'0''-PG-82) could miss the Olympics because has not recovered as fast as expected from an injury to his left eye.

The San Antonio Spurs guard was injured in a New York nightclub 10 days ago and said he eventually had to undergo surgery to have a shard of glass removed from his eye, which he was at risk of losing.

Parker had expected to be back training after a week-long rest but said on Sunday he was still sidelined and may have to withdraw from the London Games.

As required by the Spurs, I will go back to the U.S. on July 5 I will visit a specialist in New York, hoping he will give the green light to compete at the Games, Parker said on his official website (www.tp9.net).

Courtesy by Reuters via www.insidehoops.com


Trail Blazers extend qualifying offer to Nicolas Batum - by Eurobasket News

The Portland Trail Blazers have extended a qualifying offer to forward Nicolas Batum (6'7''-F-88), it was announced today by General Manager Neil Olshey.

Batum will become a restricted free agent on July 1, ensuring that the Trail Blazers will have right of first refusal should another team try to sign him. The move gives Portland the right to match any contract offer he will receive.

Batum, 23, holds averages of 10.2 points, 3.9 rebounds, 1.3 assists and 26.2 minutes in 255 games (202 starts) with the Trail Blazers over four NBA seasons. A native of Lisieux, France, Batum was acquired by Portland in a draft day trade with Houston in June 2008.

Courtesy of: insidehoops.com


France edge Argentina for title in Douai - by Eurobasket News

France U17 - Argentina U17 66:59

French U17 National Team conquered the title at the Douai international tournament. The hosts prevailed against Argentina on the final day of the tourney. Damien Inglis (197-F-95) stepped up with 20 points and 14 rebounds to lead the charge.
France started the game with a stifling defence limiting Argentina to just 8 points in the opening quarter. The hosts established a 9-point advantage after ten minutes. Argentina bounced back in the second quarter. They erased the deficit and even pulled ahead for a 28:26 halftime lead. Argentina stayed dominant throughout the third quarter. The Latin American team fired 23 points to secure a 6-point advantage heading into the fourth period. But France were able to recover. The hosts triggered a decisive 21:8 rally in the final minutes and sealed the winning outcome at the end. Olivier Yao-Delon (193-G-95) accounted for 16 points, while Paul Rigot (199-F-95) added 7 points for France. Gabriel Deck (199-F/C-95) had 18 points for Argentina. Alvaro Merlo (170-G-95) netted 10 points in the loss.

France U17: Damien Inglis 20+14 boards, Olivier Yao-Delon 16, Paul Rigot 7
Argentina U17: Gabriel Deck 18, Alvaro Merlo 10


France fire past Serbia in Istanbul - by Eurobasket News

France U20 - Serbia U20 61:49

French U20 National Team celebrated the third win at the Turgut Atakol international tournament. They defeated Serbia to clinch the third position. Louis Labeyrie (209-C-92) and Hugo Invernizzi (196-G/F-93) stepped up with 15 points each for the winners.
Serbia gained a 17:11 lead after ten minutes. But France rebounded in the second quarter. Les Bleus surged ahead for a 31:30 halftime lead. France extended the advantage in the third quarter. They opened a 12-point advantage with ten minutes remaining 50:38. The teams traded baskets throughout the final quarter France kept Serbia at bay. Jean-Charles Livio (203-PF-93) accounted for 12 points for the winners. Nemanja Bezbradica (205-F/C-93, agency: Beo Basket) notched 10 points and 8 rebounds for Serbia. Nenad Miljenovic (194-G-93, agency: Beo Basket) and Aleksandar Cvetkovic (185-PG-93) chipped in 9 points each in defeat.

France U20: Louis Labeyrie 15, Hugo Invernizzi 15, Jean-Charles Livio 12
Serbia U20: Nemanja Bezbradica 10, Nenad Miljenovic 9, Aleksandar Cvetkovic 9


Jarryd Cole joined La Rochelle - by Eurobasket News

Jarryd Cole (204-F-88, agency: JEMsports, college: Iowa) joined La Rochelle for the next season. The American Forward will move from Iceland.
Last year Jarryd Cole started his pro career in Iceland. The forward graduated from the University of Iowa. He tallied 8.0 points and 6.3 boards per game in his senior season. Jarryd Cole was given Big Ten Sportsmanship Award in 2010.
In 2011-2012 for Keflavik (Iceland-Express League, starting five) he averaged 21.0ppg, 10.3rpg, 1.4apg, 1.3spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 58.1%, FT: 71.1%. Together with the team he celebrated the Powerade Cup title. They narrowly defeated Tindastoll 97:95 in the Final. Jarryd Cole finished with 19 points, while Magnus Gunnarsson added 17 points and 8 assists in the win.
In 2012 Jarryd Cole became Icelandic Lengjan Cup Finalist -12 and won Icelandic Powerade Cup Winner -12. He was named Eurobasket.com All-Icelandic League 2nd Team -12.


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


Germany beat Poland to win Turgut Atakol Tournament - by Eurobasket News

Germany U20 - Poland U20 76:57

Germany clinched the title at the Turgut Atakol international tournament in Turkey. They shot down Polish counterparts on the final day of the competition. Mathis Monninghoff (200-F-92) provided 15 points to lead the winners.
Germany left their opponents far behind in the first half. They went on a 22:9 run in the opening quarter. Germany stretched the lead to 21 points at halftime 43:22. Germany held Poland to 10 points in the third term to take a 22-point lead into the fourth period. Poland finally adjusted offensive and erupted for 25 points in the final term but to no avail. Philipp Neumann (210-C-92) scored 12 points, while Besnik Bekteshi (188-G-93) and Ole Wendt (190-G-92, agency: Limelight Hoops) added 9 points each for Germany. Przemyslaw Karnowski (214-C-93) answered with 16 points for Poland. Michal Michalak (194-G-93, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) had 12 points in the loss.

Germany U20: Mathis Monninghoff 15, Philipp Neumann 12, Besnik Bekteshi 9, Ole Wendt 9
Poland U20: Przemyslaw Karnowski 16, Michal Michalak 12


Bastian Doreth Gets 3 Year Contract Extension With FC Bayern Munich, But Is Loaned To TBB Trier - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

FC Bayern Munich announced today that Bastian Doreth (183-G-89) has recieved a three year contract extension, but will be loaned out to TBB Trier for this season. Doreth is a 22 year old 189cm guard that was born in Nurnberg. With this announcement, FC Bayern Munich continue to show their trust in the abilities of the youngster, but at the same time want to see him develop further in an environment like TBB trier that has been known for giving Germans more minutes than what he would get with FC Bayern Munich. Last season for FC Bayern Munich, Doreth played 17 games averaging 2,2ppg while fighting an extended injury. "Bastian has shown that he has a lot of talent and has become a real leader. We always wanted to keep him long term with our team. In order to make the next step, he needs to take more responsobility on the court. He will have the right conditions in Trier. We would have liked to have kept him on our roster for this season, but we are convinced that this was the best decision for him and FC Bayern Munich", stressed FC Bayern Munich sport director Marko Pesic.

Doreth started his basketball career in 2006-2007 for Franken Hexer (2.Regionalliga) where he played until 2009 while playing the 2007-2008 season with SELLBYTEL Baskets Nuernberg (ProA) 27 games: 5.4ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 40.4%, 3PT: 30.5%, FT: 57.1%. in 2009-2010, he played for Brose Baskets Bamberg (1.Bundesliga): EuroCup: 1 game: 0pts, had also license to play at Nuernberger Basketball Club (ProB): 28 games: 11.5ppg, 3.3rpg, Assists-4 (5.8apg), 1.4spg, FGP: 46.1%, 3PT: 41.8%, FT: 74.5%. In 2010-2011, he played for FC Bayern Muenchen (ProA): 30 games: 7.4ppg, 3.4rpg, 3.0apg, FGP: 47.9%, 3PT: 44.7%, FT-3 (88.9%). "I have more of a chance to take responsobility with Trier. I know coach Henrik Roedl well from the U20 team and have a lot of trust in him. He has shown that young players develop well under him. I am looking forward to working with him", added Bastian Doreth (183-G-89). Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been German U20 National Team -09, European Championships U20 in Rhodos (Greece) -09: 5 games: 9.4ppg, 3.8rpg, 2.6apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 40.0%, 3PT: 47.1%, FT: 78.6%, German 2.Bundesliga Pro A Champion -11, German University National Team -11, and German National Team -12.

Source: FC Bayern Munich


Karsten Tadda Remains With The Brose Baskets Bamberg - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber


Karsten Tadda (189-G-88, agency: Pro One Sports) will continue to build on his title collection of 6 with the Brose Baskets Bamberg as according to www.sportando.net, the German will remain in the Bavarian city for two more years. Tadda is a 21 year old 189cm guard that was born in Bamberg and will be embarking on his sixth season with Bamberg. Last season, he played Euroleague: 10 games: 2.4ppg; German League: 44 games: 3.3ppg, 1.1rpg, 1.5apg. He started his basketball career in 2005-2006 with TSV Troester Breitenguessbach junior team and joined the Brose Baskets Bamberg in 2007. So far as a member of the Bamberg squad, Tadda has played a total of 164 Beko BBL games. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been German U18 National Team -06, German U20 National Team -07-08, Eurobasket.com All-German 2.Bundesliga South All-Newcomers Team -07, European Championships U20 Division B in Warsaw (Poland) -07 (Semifinals): 8 games: 1.8ppg, 1.5rpg, 1.4apg, European Championships U20 Division B in Targu Mures (Romania) -08: (Champion): 8 games: 6.4ppg, 3.0rpg, 1.8apg, 1.9spg, 2FGP: 52.6%, 3PT: 31.6%, FT: 72.2%, Eurobasket.com All-German 2.Bundesliga Pro B All-Domestic Players Team -09, German Bundesliga Semifinals -09, German University National Team -09, 11, World University Games in Belgrade (Serbia) -09: 2 games: 4.5ppg, 1.0rpg, 1.0apg
German Bundesliga Champion -10, 11, 12, German Bundesliga Cup Winner -11, 12, German Bundesliga Regular Season Champion -11, 12, German Bundesliga All-Star Game -11, 12
German National Team -12, and Eurobasket.com German Bundesliga All-Domestic Players Team -12


Jereal Scott Joins Rasta Vechta - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber


PRO B team Rasta Vechta have signed an NCAA jewel with Jereal Scott (200-C-89). Scott is a 21 year old 201cm and 105 kilo center from La Porte, Texas. He played at Stephen F. Austin (NCAA) from 2007-2012. In his senior year, he played 30 games: 12.4ppg, 5.6rpg, FGP: 48.3%, FT: 67.9%. In his NCAA career he played a total of 107 NCAA games. "He plays very well with his back to the hoop. Despite his 201cm, he is very strong. He is an excellent defender with quick foot work. He has a high basketball IQ and good instincts", stated Rasta Vechta head coach Pat Elzie. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been Southland Conf. Tournament Semifinals -08, 12, Southland Conf. West Division Regular Season Champion -08, Southland East Conf. Regular Season Champion -09, Southland Conf. Tournament Winner -09, Southland Conf. East Division Regular Season Champion -10, Southland Conf. Tournament Finalist -10, Southland Conf. All-Tournament Team -10, All-Southland Conf. Honorable Mention -10, All-Southland Conf. 1st Team -11
All-Southland Conf. 2nd Team -12, and Southland Conf. West Division Regular Season Runner-Up -12

Source: RASTA Vechta


Johannes Lange Gets Contract Extnesion With The Mitteldeutscher BC - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber


Afte rplaying 9 seasons in the German second Bundesliga and only half a season with MBC, Johannes Lange (208-C-85) has been rewarded with a trip to the Beko BBL as the Weissenfels team gave the German a contract extension. Lange is a 26 year old 28cm center and last season started with BG Karlsruhe (ProA): 6 games: 3.2ppg, 1.0rpg; left in Nov.'11, then moved to Mitteldeutscher BC Weissenfels (ProA): 21 games: 4.3ppg, 2.0rpg. "He was a deciding factor last year for the team chemistry and the ultimate team player. As Philipp Heyden was injured, he replaced him well. He is a hard worker, good shooter and defense specialist. He will have the same role this season as last as third center. I know already now that we can rely on him", stressed MBC head coach Silvano Poropat.

Lange started his basketball career with the Rhondorf 1912 Dragons (2.Bundesliga) in 2003 and played there until 2010. In his time in Rhondorf, Lange played a total of 169 second Bundesligagames. In 2010-2011, he played for GiroLive-Ballers Osnabrueck (ProA): 22 games: 3.9ppg, 2.1rpg. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been German U16 National Team -01, German 1.Bundesliga Rookie All-Star Game -04, German U20 National Team -04-05, German Rookie All-Stars Game -05, European Championships U20 in Moscow -05: 6 games: 1.7ppg, 1.8rpg, German 2.Bundesliga Pro B Champion -10, German 2.Bundesliga Pro A Regular Season Champion -12, and German 2.Bundesliga Pro A Champion -12

Source: Mitteldeutscher BC


Telekom Baskets Bonn: Andrej Mangold receives contract extension - by Moritz Korff

Guard Andrej Mangold (190-PG-87) has had his contract extended through the 2013-14 season, BBL team Telekom Baskets Bonn unveiled today. The 25-year-old had 38 Bundesliga appearances on the T-team in the course of the 2011-12 campaign, averaging 3.1 points per contest.
"Andrej has proved to be a very important part of our rotation. He is able to do good things both on the offensive and defensive end and he complements well with the other players in our backcourt", Bonn head coach Michael Koch stated.


*****************************************************
  HOLLAND   


Dutch Federation appointed Jan Willem Jansen as new NT head coach - by Fred Roggen

Rumours are finally confirmed, the Basketball Federation of Holland (NBB) announced Jan Willem Jansen as the new head coach of the Dutch national basketball team. The 59-year-old Jan Willem Jansen , who works at the NBB as sport-coordinator, will lead the NT during Eurobasket 2013 Qualification Round and perhaps at Eurobasket 2013..
The Dutch team is divided into a group with Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Romania and Latvia.

Jan Willem Jansen was between 1988 and 2003 head coach of Ahrend Donar (Groningen), Akrides (Haarlem), Graydon Canadians (Amsterdam), Bobcat Gent (Belgium), Astronauts Amsterdam and Omniworld Almere.
Career:
1988-1989: Ahrend Donar Groningen
1989-1990: VGNN Donar Groningen
1990-1991: VGNN Donar Groningen
1991-1992: Bestmate Akrides Haarlem
1992-1993: Graydon Canadians Amsterdam
1994-1995: Bobcat Gent (BEL)
1995-1996: Finish Profiles Astronauts Amsterdam
1996-1997: Finish Profiles Astronauts Amsterdam
1997-1998: Finish Profiles Astronauts Amsterdam
2000: Coach NBA pre-draft Camp Washington
2000-2001: Omniworld Almere
2001: Coach NBA Prospect Camp Boedapest
2001-2002: Omniworld Almere
2002-2003: Omniworld Almere

Awards/Achievements
Coach of the Year 1991, 1992 and 1998
Dutch Cup winner 1997 and 1998


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


Austria post first win at Torneo di Roseto - by Eurobasket News

Austria U20 - Hungary U20 77:69

Austria delivered victory on the final day of Torneo di Roseto in Italy. They defeated Hungarian counterparts to finish at 1-2 record. Daniel Friedrich (182-PG-92) came up with 15 points to lead the winners.
Hungary led by three points after ten minutes 14:11. But Austria went on a 22:4 run in the second frame to clear off to a 15-point halftime lead 33:18. Hungary knocked down 27 points in the third term attempting to deny the deficit. Austria remained in charge however leading by 9 points before the fourth term 54:45. Austria withheld all comeback efforts from Hungary in the final quarter and sealed the victory at the end. Maximilian Hopfgartner (206-PF-92) and Filip Kramer (200-SF-92) knocked down 14 points each for Austria. Peter Jakab (187-G-93) replied with 12 points for Hungary. Adam Kovacs (200-SF-93) chipped in 14 points in the loss.

Austria U20: Daniel Friedrich 15, Maximilian Hopfgartner 14, Filip Kramer 14
Hungary U20: Adam Kovacs 14, Peter Jakab 12


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


Israeli PG Oded Brandwein Returns to Poland, Signs with Czarni Slupsk - by David Pick

Israeli point guard Oded Brandwein will continue his European success in Poland after striking a deal with Energa Czarni Slupsk for the 2012-13 season.

The young 24-year-old guard, who has five Israeli pro-ball seasons under his belt, averaged 12.2 points, 2 rebounds and 4 dimes per game last season with Kotwica Kolobrzeg of the Polish league, en route to surprising several scouts and teams with his on-court maturity.

Last season, Brandwein made history becoming the first Israeli player to hoop in Poland.




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


Italy race past Ukraine for Torneo di Roseto title - by Eurobasket News

Italy U20 - Ukraine U20 74:61

Italian U20 National Team clinched the title at Torneo di Roseto. They posted the third straight win yesterday. The hosts overcame Ukraine for the trophy. Eric Lombardi (200-F-93) provided 19 points to lead the winners.
The teams stayed neck and neck throughout the opening quarter. Italy eked out a 19:18 lead at the first pause. Things hardly changed in the second period. The teams exchanged baskets as Italy snatched a 37:35 halftime lead. The Azzurri stretched the gap in the third quarter. They went on a 21:10 run to ensure a 58:45 buffer heading into the fourth term. Ukraine did not recover in the final stages of the game as Italy cruised to the victory. Tommaso Ingrosso (206-PF-92) finished with 12 points, while Marco Lagana (194-G-93) added 10 points for Italy. Vyacheslav Bobrov (202-F-92) answered with 17 points for Ukraine. Artem Pustovyi (216-C-92, agency: Beo Basket) netted 14 points in defeat.

Italy U20: Eric Lombardi 19, Tommaso Ingrosso 12, Marco Lagana 10
Ukraine U20: Vyacheslav Bobrov 17, Artem Pustovyi 14


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


Oita Heat Devils bring in Kazuya Hatano and Taishiro Shimizu - by Eurobasket News

Oita Heat Devils strengthened their roster. They added Kazuya Hatano (192-F-82) and Taishiro Shimizu (183-G-81) to the squad.
Kazuya Hatano spent the last season with Shiga Lakestars. The forward averaged 3.0 points and 2.8 rebounds per game in BJ League. Previously Kazuya Hatano had stints with Osaka Evessa and Saitama Broncos. He was named All-Japanese BJ League Newcomer of the Year in 2006.
Taishiro Shimizu spent the last two seasons with Miyazaki Shining Suns. The guard averaged 11.0 points, 3.7 assists, 3.5 boards and 1.2 steals per game in BJ League. Asia-Basket.com named Taishiro Shimizu into Japanese BJ League All-Domestic Players Team in 2011. Previously the guard played for Saitama Broncos and Chemnitz.


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


Kazakhstan U18 win Asia Championship Qualifying Tournament - by Eurobasket News

Kazakh U18 National Team celebrated victory at the Fiba Asia Qualifying Tournament held in Tashkent. They claimed victory in the qualifying event sealing the U18 Fiba Asia Championship appearance. Kazakhstan will now travel to Ulan Bator, Mongolia to participated at the event scheduled for 17th-26th August.
Kazakhstan claimed three wins in a row in Tashkent. They overcame Uzbekistan 63:60 in the opener. Kazakhstan improved their performance and claimed an 84:68 victory over Turkmenistan in the second game. Finally Kazakhstan shot down Kyrgyzstan to clinch the top position in the ladder.


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


Defending Champions CO-OP Bank terrorized - by Eurobasket News

The 2011 KBF champions CO-OP bank over the weekend failed to shine as they were dimmed by University of Nairobi side Terror 63-55 at the Nyayo Gymnasium.

The defending champions coach Cary Odhiambo was a disappointed after the loss blaming his teams loss to complacency especially when facing the so called smaller teams; When facing teams that are weaker than us on paper there is an attitude that crops up and the players lose focus. In the 3rd quarter we played nothing. I will have to work a lot on our mental strength to deal with this before our next match.

Coop Bank commenced the match with a stronger display winning the first quarter 16-08 but they could not hold on to the early lead allowing the students to narrow the gap losing 14-15.
But the students stayed powerful on their offense beating the champions 09-21 in the 3rd quarter and despite a late surge by the Bankers Terrorists took home the day with a 15-19 4th quarter win.
Bill Oketch was the matchs top scorer with 19 points for Terror (made two 3 pointer shots) with Yuval Genga getting 13 points. Hillary Kubai was the highest rebound taker for Terror and also in the match securing 9 rebounds. Co-op banks Joseph Khaemba managed 11 points while Titus Musembi and Robert Mugabe made 10 points each.
COOP banks ladies team was also on the receiving end going down 35-60 to students USIU.Powered by the ever green Hilda Indasi who netted 20 points, USIU dominated in all quarters to take home the maximum points.

LADIES
COOPBANK 17/35 VS U.S.I.U 34/60
09/18/09/08 12/22/11/15
23 pts Irene Makori 20 pts Hilda Indasi

MEN
COOPBANK 31/55 VS TERROR 22/63
16/15/09/15 08/14/21/19
12 pts Titus Musembi 17 pts Bill Oketch
12 pts Robert Mugabe 11 pts Brian Obimbo
Courtesy of: http://basket-in-africa.blogspot.ch/


KCA-U hands Pirates a rude welcome to KBF Division One - by Eurobasket News

The Kenyatta University Pirates were handed a hiding by their Thika Road neighbors Kenya College of Accountancy University (KCA U) 58 -66 on Saturday afternoon at the Nyayo Gymnasium when the KBF Division One league resumed.
Pirates were promoted to the higher league after the withdrawal of Kenya Navy. This was the Piratess first match but they managed to stage a super performance as they held their opponents a 11 point draw in the first quarter.
KCA undefeated in the league so far stepped up their strengths with good lay ups and powerful rebounds in the 2nd quarter thumping Pirates with a 25- 7 points score. This put the total points during half time at 36 18 in favor of KCA.
Kenyatta University attempted a comeback in the third quarter as they overturned the scoreline winning the quarter 20-11 with Wekesa leading the scores. The Pirates went ahead to snatch the final quarter with a 20-19 advantage but it was too little too late as KCA-U triumphed with a58-66 advantage.
KCAs Antony Bwire was the top scorer in the match earning his side an impressive 25 points and also took the highest number of rebounds, securing 9 rebounds. His team mate Victor Okello gave his side 12 points.
Speaking to michezoafrika.com , KCA coach Charles Goro was happy with the win but rued the missed chances on simple drives in the 3rd quarter,
The boys lost concentration in the 3rd quarter missing clear chances but I am glad that they held on to win the game.
Courtesy of: http://basket-in-africa.blogspot.ch/


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

Standings

LBQ Standings
 1. Revolution 12-3 
 2. Seigneurs 10-3 
 3. Monteregie 4-9 
 4. Jaguars 4-9 
 5. Page-Dynamo 4-10 

Regular Season: Round 17

Jun. 22: Revolution - Page-Dynamo 79-80
Jun. 23: Page-Dynamo - Monteregie 61-79

Regular Season: Round 19

Jun. 29: Jaguars - Monteregie
Jun. 29: Seigneurs - Page-Dynamo



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


Fattouh and Farran head to Italty - by Ahmad Kerdi

Al Riyadi Club Coaches Jade Fattouh and Ahmad El Farran will head on Wednesday to Italy to attend another Coaching Clinic at the highest level in Europe and the world.
The Clinic will feature some of the top European coaches and will be another addition to the great clinics both young coaches have already went threw.
Both Coaches will add a lot of experience this year to their resume when since they will have much bigger role and impact on Al Riyadi's first team since Coach Jade became the first assistant Coach and Coach Farran was also added to the Coaching staff as the second assistant of new hired appointed well experienced Coach Slobodan Subotic.
Best of luck for both coaches who keep on setting the best example for all young coaches with hard work and great achievements they already accomplished at such a young age.


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


Croatia B edge Montenegro U20 in China - by Eurobasket News

Croatia B - Montenegro U20 81:71

Croatian B National Team celebrated victory over Montenegrin U20 National Team at the Sino-European Challenge Event tournament in China. Darko Planinic (211-C-90) stepped up with 18 points to lead the winners.
The teams exchanged baskets throughout the opening quarter. The scoreboard read 19:19 after ten minutes. Croatia exploded with 26 points in the second quarter to pull ahead. They built a 3-point halftime lead 45:42. Croatia maintained the advantage throughout the third quarter. Croatia arrived at the final intermission up by 6 points 62:56. They did not slow down in the fourth quarter and rolled to the victory at the end. Pavle Marcinkovic (197-G-89) accounted for 12 points, while Zeljko Sakic (201-F-88, agency: Beo Basket) had 14 in the winning case. Marko Mugosa (197-F-93) answered with game-high 26 points for Montenegro. Danilo Nikolic (201-C-93) netted 18 points in the loss.

Croatia B: Darko Planinic 18, Zeljko Sakic 14, Pavle Marcinkovic 12
Montenegro U20: Marko Mugosa 26, Danilo Nikolic 18


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


Kings extend qualifying offer to Jason Thompson - by Eurobasket News

The Sacramento Kings today extended a qualifying offer to Jason Thompson (6'11''-F-86, college: Rider), making him a restricted free agent, according to Kings President of Basketball Operations Geoff Petrie.

Thompson averaged 9.1 ppg (.535 FG, .602 FT), 6.9 rpg and 1.2 apg through 64 outings with the Kings last season, of which he started 47. He was selected by Sacramento with the 12th overall pick of the 2008 NBA Draft and is averaging 10.5 ppg (.498 FG, .663 FT), 7.2 rpg, and 1.3 apg over his four-year career.

In accordance with the leagues collective bargaining agreement, in order for a team to retain its right of first refusal with respect to a restricted free agent, the team must tender the player a qualifying offer prior to June 30. A restricted free agent may sign an offer sheet with any team, but is subject to a right of first refusal with the team for which the player last played.
Courtesy of: www.insidehoops.com


Tony Parker may miss Olympics due to eye injury from Drake vs Chris Brown fight - by Eurobasket News

French basketball team leader Tony Parker (6'0''-PG-82) could miss the Olympics because has not recovered as fast as expected from an injury to his left eye.

The San Antonio Spurs guard was injured in a New York nightclub 10 days ago and said he eventually had to undergo surgery to have a shard of glass removed from his eye, which he was at risk of losing.

Parker had expected to be back training after a week-long rest but said on Sunday he was still sidelined and may have to withdraw from the London Games.

As required by the Spurs, I will go back to the U.S. on July 5 I will visit a specialist in New York, hoping he will give the green light to compete at the Games, Parker said on his official website (www.tp9.net).

Courtesy by Reuters via www.insidehoops.com


Trail Blazers extend qualifying offer to Nicolas Batum - by Eurobasket News

The Portland Trail Blazers have extended a qualifying offer to forward Nicolas Batum (6'7''-F-88), it was announced today by General Manager Neil Olshey.

Batum will become a restricted free agent on July 1, ensuring that the Trail Blazers will have right of first refusal should another team try to sign him. The move gives Portland the right to match any contract offer he will receive.

Batum, 23, holds averages of 10.2 points, 3.9 rebounds, 1.3 assists and 26.2 minutes in 255 games (202 starts) with the Trail Blazers over four NBA seasons. A native of Lisieux, France, Batum was acquired by Portland in a draft day trade with Houston in June 2008.

Courtesy of: insidehoops.com


Luol Deng will not be shocked if Bulls trade him - by Eurobasket News

Chicago Bulls forward Luol Deng (6'9''-F-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Duke) revealed this weekend that he will not be surprised if the Bulls trade him this offseason.

While at training camp in Texas with Great Britains national team preparing for the London Olympics, Deng said he does not believe the Bulls are shopping him in retaliation for his decision to delay the wrist surgery he needs until after the Games.

But Deng, 27, did acknowledge that hes not dismissing recent reports suggesting the Bulls are willing to trade him for a top pick in Thursdays NBA draft, with speculation mounting that Chicago could send Deng to the Golden State Warriors in exchange for the No. 7 overall pick.

I believe there is always to some extent truth behind rumors, Deng said. But as an athlete, if you get caught up in them, you are really wasting your time because its not something you can control.

If its not true, a GM could always come out and say its not true. But if a GM doesnt come out and say it, there are probably talks. And there should be. If I was a GM I would be shopping players around too. Ive got to show that Im doing something.

Courtesy of Ian Whittell, special to ESPN Chicago


Heat arena goes wild as parading team arrives - by Eurobasket News

The Miami Heats moveable feast is now a full-fledged house party.

The Heat took a brisk victory lap through downtown Miami, a star-studded, confetti-chucking parade that quickly wound its way to AmericanAirlines Arena.

That set the stage for a party thats been two years in making: a star-studded bash on the floor where the Heat captured its second league championship in six years.

But unlike the last time party the Heat threw a celebration party at the AmericanAirlines Arena the garish bash welcoming LeBron James (6'8''-F-84) and Chris Bosh (6'11''-F-84, college: Georgia Tech) to town that became a national punchline when the team fell short of a title in 2011 no one can question if this one was deserved (or unduly over-the-top).

To loud music, explosive graphics and screaming fans, the 15 members of the Miami Heat were introduced, one-by-one, to kick off the affair. Its expect to run until 2 p.m.

[The outside world] didnt support this team. They counted this team out, coach Erik Spoelstra told the audience. But they never estimated how close this team was as a family.

Today is about the fiesta, he added. Lets show everybody how we do it.

The mayors of both Miami and Miami-Dade, Tomas Regalado and Carlos Giminez, took turns behind the microphone. Giminez proclaimed Monday, Miami Heat, 2012 NBA Champions Day.

The party will cap a celebratory day, which began just before 11 a.m. with two-mile parade through town.

With Burnie leading the way in a fire engines cherry-picker, Heat players, coaches and staff along with their families stood atop a double-decker buses, waving to throngs of fans lined along Miamis streets.

Concerns of rain were for naught. An expected thundershower didnt materialized.

All the familiar faces were in tow: Kings LeBron James, Dwyane Wade (6'4''-G-82, college: Marquette) and Chris Bosh. Coach Erik Spoelstra and his boss Pat Riley, too.

Team owner Micky Arison sent out a picture over Twitter from his lofty perch.

The parades lineup: Burnies fire truck, a handful of buses, a few convertibles, and a big rig. While expected to take upwards to 90 minutes, the celebration arrived at Bayside after just a half-hour. It went by so fast that some who had staked out spots since dawn barely could get a glimpse of their heroes.

We really appreciate the fans, all the love, said forward Udonis Haslem, a Miami native. The least we can do is ride down the street, wave our hands, and show our love for the fans. Weve got more partying to do.

Draped on the side of the buses: an enormous banner of the championship trophy, with the message, Thanks Heat Fans.

Wade got the honor (and responsibility) of carrying the actual trophy as he cruised through Miami. Wade had a tighter grip on the hardware than the Spanish soccer stars who let their Copa del Rey trophy slip through their fingers during a similar parade, ending up under the bus wheels.

The convoy began on Southwest Eighth Street, heading east then north on Brickell Avenue. By 11:15, it had already turned to the homestretch.

While cloud cover made the day a little cooler than it otherwise would be, the heat was a bit too much for some. There were reports of at least observers fainting along Biscayne Boulevard. There were also distress calls for children who had wandered away from their parents.

Meanwhile, there thousands who never got close to the parade route, stuck in horrendous traffic on Interstate 95 in both directions. A rush-hour commute that usually takes a half-hour last five times that long as highways became parking lots.

But for the most part, it was a display of peaceful, and safe revelry. From Calle Ocho to Bayside, tens of thousands lined Miamis streets to take part in the moveable feast.

They wore Heat championship shirts, Wade jerseys and inflatable crowns. And a chicken suit. And large snakes. And one brave man dressed up as a Knicks fan.

Some strayed the celebration a little early with Coronas or liquor out of a flask. But just a few. This crowd was full of kids and mothers with strollers.

At the intersection of Biscayne and Flagler Street, Calvin Darville, 25, was wearing a Miami Heat hat and a brand new championship T-shirt as he waited for the celebration parade to start.

He drove two hours from Fort Pierce Sunday night to get here early Monday morning.

His favorite player is James although, as a point guard himself in pickup games with his friends, he also appreciates Mario Chalmers.

What would he say to LeBron haters?

Kiss the ring.

As the excitement level built for the Miami Heats celebratory jaunt down Biscayne Boulevard, downtown Miami turned into a mob scene.

The crowds began gathering before 8 a.m., packing Metromover and swarming to the Freedom Tower, the finish line of the nearly two-mile convoy.

Thousands of Heat fans oft-maligned by the national media as front-running and late-arriving rose early Monday to beat downtown traffic and stand in a light rain to get a prime spot outside AmericanAirlines Arena for the teams championship parade.

Hundreds more were already filtering into the arena.

They wore white Champions shirts and waved green Champions signs. On Northeast Eighth Street, they cheered as if it were a game. A man on a megaphone started a Lets Go Heat! chant.

Shannon Rodriguez, 25, from Coral Gables, said patience is key on a day like this.

Its my first time on Metromover, she said. Its a little bit of an overwhelming experience.

Paul Landers, 48, left Lake Worth at 6:30 a.m. with his son Matt, 17, and a neighbor to make it to the Triple-A by 9:30 for the post-parade celebration.

Its unbelievable how much the negativity surrounding LeBron has changed in just a few days but its great because its about time and it was so undeserved, said Landers, an insurance compliance coordinator.

Fans who wanted seats on Biscayne Boulevard in front of the arena had to get there early Monday.

Donnie Martin made it with his son, brother and a niece and nephew decked out in black Heat gear by 6:15 a.m. to a spot where they plopped down some lawn chairs.

Were the best fans in the world, said Marin, a 42-year-old Miami-Dade schools security monitor.

Just a few feet over, Lismeilyn Machado, her boyfriend and best friend held up three-foot-tall styrofoam Larry OBrien trophies her father made the night the Heat won the championship.

She said the trophies, covered in gold glitter and adorned with Heat flaming basketballs took 2 1/2 hours each to make.

Its awesome, Machado, a 19-year-old Miami-Dade College student, shouted over the siren of a passing Miami-Dade Fire Rescue truck, as firefighters tried to pump up the crowd.

Several people brought the family dog along for the parade. Only one man brought his snakes two rescued boa constrictors.

They needed a little exercise, said the handler, who calls himself Fang Daddy. And they wanted to support the Heat.

One of the boa constrictors is albino or all white. He calls him the White Heat.

Pastor Chris Atwood and his wife Jenn spent the morning spray painting a sign to hang about First Presbyterian Church on Brickell Avenue.

We want to show that this church supports the community, Jenn Atwood said.

Their sign read Jesus loves the Heat, with and OKC too.

We dont believe Jesus has a favorite team, she said laughing.

She said she was struck by how much the game and parade brought the city together.

It brought so many people together and thats what the church is about too, she said.

It also brought about some heat-related illnesses. A fire-rescue spokesman Carroll said earlier some 50 paramedics on scooters, foot and rescue units will be along the route. The department is encouraging fans to stay hydrated and bring their own drinks to the event.

For their fans, the Miami Heat is also proving free water stations set up along the way which will be manned by the fire department.

Now that the parade has ended, all eyes will be on the interior of AmericanAirlines, where celebration is planned.

Details of the show have been kept under wraps. Some local celebrities and dignitaries may take part. Other who might appear are Julia Dale, the 11-year-old from Broward girl who sang the national anthem at the last two homes games of the NBA Finals. Team owner Micky Arison has called her a good luck charm.

Miami Herald staff writers Anna Edgerton, Michael McGuire, Margaux Hererra , David Smiley and Luisa Yanez contributed to this report.

Courtesy of: miamiherald.com


*****************************************************
  NCAA2   


SFU Signs a Recruit - by Sanjey Noriega



From: sfu.ca
Burnaby, BC David Manshreck (North Vancouver, BC) of Windsor Secondary School has committed to join the Simon Fraser University Clan men's basketball program.

David is a versatile player that can play several positions, said head coach James Blake . He shoots very well and can also put the ball on the floor. Hes a local product that's been coached very well, both at the high school and provincial level.

Manshreck stands 6-4, and plays on the wing.

I would describe myself as a wing player with some post habits, said Manshreck. I can shoot the three and drive to the hoop, but I have the aggression and physicality of a post player.

This past season with Windsor, Manshreck was a key member of the offence, averaging 27 points per game and grabbing 10 rebounds per game.

My goals for next season are to get better in every way possible. Obviously, as a freshman, I'll have to improve on everything. One specific focus would be to get bigger and stronger, continued Manshreck.

He shot 55 percent from the field and 47 percent from beyond the arc last season.

SFU just seemed like the perfect fit for me in all aspects. The basketball program is on the rise and is in good hands with a great coaching staff. It's also a great academic school and is close to home, which is huge, finished Manshreck.

In addition to playing at Windsor, Manshreck has spent for years on the BC provincial team, and played on BCs under-17 team this past season.


*****************************************************
  NORWAY   


Norway U20 comes back from Nordic Championship - by Eurobasket News

Norway U20 comes back from Nordic Championship without victories. The team however had a great time in Finland.
In Day 1 Finland U20 overcame Norway U20 100:48. Markus Molenius (203-F-92) paced all the winners with 15 points, while Ilari Seppala added 12. Bouna Ndiaye (195-SG-92) scored 10 points in the losing effort.
In Day 2 Sweden U20 stormed past Norway U20 100:48. Sweden started with 30-13 and added 22-15 in the second frame. Moreover Sweden won the third and the last quarters to seal the victory. Sebastian Norman (208-C/F-92) paced all the winners with 16 points and Karl Ornher delivered 15. Jakob Baiden posted 11 points in the losing case.
In Day 3 Denmark U20 rolled over Norway U20 93:58. The winners looked better in the entire game and won the first three quarters. Kevin Larsen (204-F-93) top-scored for the winners with 20 points, while Philip Hertz (210-C/F-92) netted 19. Bouna Ndiaye scored 22 points for Norway and Jakob Baiden nailed 13.


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


Harris number one in Philippines for round 17 - by Eurobasket News

American swingman Paul Harris (193-F/G-86) put on an amazing game in the last round for Talk N Text, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 17.
The 25-year old player had a double-double of 30 points and 10 rebounds, while his team edged out Ginebra Kings (#4, 4-4) 113-111. The game was between two of the league's top four teams. Talk N Text is placed at 3rd position in Filipino PBA. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Talk N Text will need more victories to improve their 4-3 record. Harris just recently signed at Talk N Text, being already a very valuable addition to the team. Former Syracuse University star has very solid stats this year. Harris is in league's top in points (2nd best: 26.7ppg), rebounds (4th best: 12.3rpg) and averages impressive 50.4% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was 28-year old American Cedric Bozeman (198-G-83) of Ginebra Kings. Bozeman had a very good evening with a double-double of 32 points and 10 rebounds. Bad luck as Ginebra Kings was edged by slightly higher-ranked Talk N Text (#3, 4-3) 113-111. It was definitely game of the week between two contenders to the title. Ginebra Kings still maintains its place in the top 4 of the standings, even despite this loss. His team's 4-4 record is not bad at all. Bozeman is one of the most experienced players at Ginebra Kings and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 24.3ppg (#5). His other stats are also decent: 10.4rpg and 5.1apg.

Third on the list of top players last round was American forward Omar Sneed (198-F-76) of Powerade T. (#6). Sneed showcased his all-around game by recording 23 points, seventeen rebounds (!!!) and five assists in the last round. Despite Sneed's great performance Powerade T. lost 78-91 to Meralco Bolts (4-4). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. The last thing Powerade T. needs is to lose another game like this one. They lose more and more distance to the top teams. Their record is 4 victories and 4 lost games. Sneed has a great season in Philippines. After only 6 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 26.5ppg (3rd best), rebounds with 16.8rpg (#1 in league) and assists with 5.3apg (3rd best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Mario West (195-G-84) of Meralco Bolts - 29 points and 9 rebounds
5. Mark Caguioa (188-G-79) of Ginebra Kings - 32 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists
6. Larry Fonacier (186-F/G-82) of Talk N Text - 19 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists
7. Jireh Ibanes (186-G-82) of Rain or Shine - 15 points, 6 rebounds and 7 assists
8. Arwind Santos (193-F-81) of Petron Blaze - 18 points, 10 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Gabe Norwood (196-G/F-85) of Rain or Shine - 16 points, 3 rebounds and 4 assists
10. Jamelle Cornley (196-F-87) of Rain or Shine - 22 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists

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)


Asean Basketball League Championship Roundup: Game 2 - by Enzo Flojo

INDONESIA WARRIORS over SAN MIGUEL BEERMEN, 81-61

The Indonesia Warriors forced a Game 3 after an 81-61 win at Britama Arena. Evan Brock recorded a double-double of 26 points and 16 rebounds. Stanley Pringle contributed a further 13 points, and Steve Thomas rounded the Warriors top three with 12 points and 10 rebounds.

The Beermens top scorer was Duke Crews with 16 points, followed by Leo Avenidos 13 and Nick Fazekas 10.

SMB head coach Bobby Parks has been preaching to his team to start the game better. His team responded by grabbing a 17-12 lead after Chris Banchero hit a basket with 4:39 left in the first quarter, but the Warriors regrouped and ended the first quarter with a 24-23 lead.

As in Game 1, both teams were shooting very well in the opening quarter, the Warriors completing a respectable 45% from the field and the Beermen an incredible 59%. The Warriors, however, won more of the rebounds.

The Warriors carried their momentum going into the second quarter and kept the Beermen scoreless in the opening 3 minutes while they went on a 7-0 run. The Beermen were trying hard to find an answer for the Warriors, but Jerick Caada sank a 3 to give his team their first double-digit lead of the afternoon at 40-28 with 3:58 left until the halftime buzzer. Avenido cut the Warriors lead to 42-33 with a basket going into the break.

Things did not look good for the Beermen in the third quarter as Thomas and Brock combined for 13 points. A three-point play by Steven Thomas gave the Warriors their biggest lead in the game, 64-43, with 1:15 left in the period.

Despite the healthy lead, the Warriors did not let up on the intensity and maintained at least a 15-point gap between the teams throughout the entire fourth quarter. In the end, the Warriors, fielding an all-local team led by Mario Wuysang, ensured that there would be a third game next week.

INW 81- Brock 26, Pringle 13, Thomas 12, Canada 9, Wisnu 7, Wuysang 4, Prihantono 3, Gunawan 3, Wibawa 2, Salangsang 2, Ristanto 0, Sitepu 0.
SMB 61- Crews 16, Avenido 13, Fazekas 10, Yap 8, Banchero 6, Fernandez 5, Fajardo 3, Luanzon 0, Baguion 0, Ferriols 0, Dimaunahan 0, Gonzales 0.
QS: 24-23, 42-33, 64-49, 81-61

Source: Game recap was compressed and compiled from AseanBasketballLeague.com.


2012 PBA Governors Cup Roundup: June 22-24, 2012 - by Enzo Flojo

BGY. GINEBRA KINGS over ALASKA ACES, 90-81
For 24 minutes, Barangay Ginebra appeared to be on the verge of experiencing its first set of back-to-back setbacks in the PBA Governors Cup.

Fortunately for the Gin Kings, Mark Caguioa once again sparked their comeback.

Caguioa scored 15 of his 22 points in the second half to lead the Gin Kings to a come-from-behind 90-81 triumph over the luckless Alaska Aces Friday night at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum.

He did more than just score in the victory, Ginebras fourth in seven matches. He had three steals and four assists while inspiring the rest of his squad to do their share to make up for a subpar gam from import Cedric Bozeman.

Enrico Villanueva came off the bench to score all of his 12 points in the second half. KG Canaleta also stepped up, contributing nine in the final 24 minutes of play while Dylan Ababou and Willie Wilson combined for 10 points as the Gin Kings shock troopers outplayed the Aces.

Overall, the Gin Kings got 55 points from their bench compared to 22 for the Aces.

The Aces posted their biggest lead at 17 points, 46-29, on a basket by import Jason Forte with still a minute to go before the end of the first half.

But the Gin Kings fought their way back slowly in the third period. A blistering 14-3 run capped by a Bozeman basket shoved the Gin Kings within one point, 55-54, with 4:27 left in the quarter.

In the fourth period, Caguioa led another 14-3 spurt by the Gin Kings, who posted a 79-68 lead with 8:05 left in the game. They were never seriously threatened from then on.

The alternating wins and losses trend continued for Ginebra, which is now a win away from reaching the semifinal round.

Ginebras inconsistency was a big concern both for both coach Siot Tanquingcen and Caguioa.

Were far from [being in good] shape. Knowing carryover ang semis, gusto naming makuha yung dating shape namin, said Tanquingcen.

Caguioa, for his part, believes they need to execute better

We need to get some flow from our offense. Meron kaming game na pangit, next naman super ganda, mahirap tantyahin, said Caguioa.

GIN 90 - Caguioa 22, Bozeman 15, Villanueva 12, Cortez 12, Canaleta 9, Ababou 6, Hatfield 6, Wilson W. 4, Maierhofer 2, Raymundo 2, Maliksi 0, Wilson J. 0, Mamaril 0, Helterbrand 0.
ALA 81 - Forte 20, Tenorio 12, Espinas 12, Baguio 11, Thoss 9, Baracael 7, Jazul 6, Eman 2, Gelig 2, Thiele 0, Custodio 0, Sotto 0, Cablay 0, Dela Cruz 0.
QS: 10-23, 33-46, 65-65, 90-81

AIR21 EXPRESS over POWERADE TIGERS, 128-121
Zach Graham exploded for 51 points, the highest total for a PBA import in four years, to carry Air 21 to a stunning upset over streaking Powerade, 128-121, in a PBA Governors Cup shootout at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum Friday night.

The Express import tallied the most points in the PBA since Darius Rice score 56 for Purefoods in the 2008 Fiesta Conference.

But Graham did not go it alone, as he got plenty of help from other members of the Express, which set a franchise record for points scored.

Ren-Ren Ritualo scored 22 points on perfect 6-of-6 shooting from beyond the arc, tying records set by Glenn Capacio (twice), Vic Pablo, and Dondon Hontiveros for most three-point field goals without a miss according to PBA head of statistics Fidel Mangonon. Nelbert Omolon contributed 17 points while James Sena and Mark Isip chipped in 10 for the Express.

Air 21 also played stellar defense early in the game, holding Powerade top gun Gary David scoreless for the first 21-and-a-half minutes. David didnt make his first basket a three-pointer until the 2:30 mark of the second period.

Still, David masterminded a late rally by the Tigers that cut the lead into two points. Graham, however, proved to be a steady marksman from the free throw line, helping the Express put the game out of reach with clutch foul shooting.

The win, the second in seven games for the Express, kept their hopes of making the semifinals alive.

Powerade import Omar Sneed had his own monster game with 40 points, while David finished with 28 points to lead the Tigers, who saw their four-game streak snapped with their third loss in seven matches.

A21 128 - Graham 51, Ritualo 22, Omolon 17, Sena 10, Isip 10, Hubalde 5, Arboleda 5, Sison 4, Bagatsing 2, Espiritu 2.
POW 121 - Sneed 40, David 28, Vanlandingham 10, Al-Hussaini 10, Casio 8, Anthony 7, Lingganay 6, Martinez 5, Guevarra 4, Salvador 3, Allera 0, Calimag 0, Tugade 0, Antonio 0.
QS: 33-23, 68-44, 99-80, 128-121

RAIN OR SHINE ELASTO-PAINTERS over PETRON BLAZE BOOSTERS, 103-82
Rain or Shine brought its A-game to Dumaguete City, defeating the Petron Blaze Boosters, 103-82, Saturday at the Lamberto Macias Sports and Cultural Center.

Jireh Ibanes played his best game of the tournament, tallying 15 points while hounding Petron import Eddie Basden to just nine points.

Ibanes big game was more than enough to make up for the absence of Paul Lee, who sat out the game because of a dislocated shoulder.

Four other players finished in double figures for the Elasto Painters led by import Jamelle Cornleys 22 points. Gabe Norwood and Jeff Chan each contributed 16 points while Jervy Cruz added 14 points for the Elasto Painters, who outscored the Boosters 30-19 in the fourth period.

We showed great character and Im really happy with the way we played because we know Petron is one of the stronger teams in the league right now. They were playing at their best before this game, said Rain or Shine coach Yeng Guiao.

Petron was red hot from beyond the arc in the first half, but Rain or Shine tightened the screws on defense after the break.

We felt we were playing good basketball. Despite the fact that they were able to hit 10 three-pointers, we were only down by three at the half, said Guiao.

Rain or Shine remained in first place with its seventh win in eight games, while Petrons win-loss record fell to 4-4.

ROS 103 - Cornley 22, Norwood 16, Chan 16, Ibanes 15, Cruz 14, Matias 5, Belga 4, Tang 4, Buenafe 3, Quinahan 2, Arana 2.
PET 82 - Washington 19, Santos 18, Lutz 10, Basden 9, Yeo 8, Cabagnot 7, Hontiveros 6, Lanete 3, Baclao 2, Pena 0, Miranda 0, Reyes 0.
QS: 27-25, 44-47, 73-63,103-82

MERALCO BOLTS over PWERADE TIGERS, 91-78
Sol Mercado erupted for 15 points in the fourth period to lead Meralco to a 91-78 victory over Powerade in the PBA Governors Cup Sunday at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum.

Scoreless in the first three quarters, Mercado led the Bolts decisive rally to pull away from a tight game and notch their first back-to-back wins in the tournament.

I just told him just to be patient. True enough, Powerades defense loosened up in the fourth quarter, said Meralco coach Ryan Gregorio of his prized guard.

It was a great win for us. With other teams falling down, we are encouraged that our destiny lies in our hands. We need a victory over Barako Bull on Sunday to have a clear passage and finally nail one of the six slots, added Gregorio.

Mario West had another solid performance for the Bolts with 29 points and nine rebounds and was responsible for limiting Gary David, the PBAs leading local scorer, to 20 points.

Our import takes pride on defending, said Gregorio. I told him for the game, hell be guarding the best scoring local player in the league. But Gary David is not Tyreke [Evans], nor Dwayne Wade nor Lebron James. These are the players (West) used to guard in the NBA.

David got his shooting rhythm in the third quarter, when he exploded for 11 points to put the Tigers within striking distance, trailing by only two points, 68-66, going into the fourth period.

But it was Mercado who stole the show in the final period, leading 16-3 exchange to build an 84-69 advantage for the Bolts with 4:22 remaining.

Powerade failed to respond, absorbing its second straight defeat that dropped its win-loss record to 4-4. The loss also ruined the return of Nic Belasco to the PBA.

The 38-year old Belasco had 4 points and 4 rebounds in 14 minutes for the Tigers. Omar Sneed led Powerade with 23 points and 17 rebounds.

MER 91 - West 29, Mercado 15, Cardona 15, Hugnatan 14, Taulava 7, Bulawan 6, Macapagal 3, Ross 2, Reyes 0.
POW 78 - Sneed 23, David 20, Guevarra 12, Casio 6, Al-Hussaini 4, Belasco 4, Anthony 3, Lingganay 2, Salvador 2, Adducul 2, Vanlandingham 0, Tugade 0.
QS: 21-24, 43-42, 68-66, 91-78

TALK N TEXT TROPANG TEXTERS over BGY. GINEBRA KINGS, 113-111
Talk N Text weathered the rally of Barangay Ginebra late in the game and held on for a 113-111 thrilling win and extend its winning streak to three games in the PBA Governors Cup Sunday night at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum.

Jayson Castro scored the last six points of the Tropang Texters, including a miraculous bank shot that doused the uprising of the Kings.

Castro had a chance at a three-point play off a foul by Jayjay Helterbrand, but missed the bonus shot. But it gave Talk N Text a 111-108 lead with 27.6 seconds remaining.

Mark Caguioas misfired a short jumper on the next play and Castro collared the board and sank two free throws to put the game away. Cedric Bozeman hit a three-pointer in the next possession for the Gin Kings, but Talk N Text dribbled the time out.

We want to get better in two things. To get better in things we normally do and to get better health-wise, said Talk N Text coach Chot Reyes.

We were able to weather the storm and without our top defensive players, we have to find ways to win and this time by outscoring them.

Paul Harris finished with 30 points and 10 rebounds for the Tropang Texters, who improved their win-loss mark to 4-3.

Ranidel de Ocampo added 21 points while Larry Fonacier chipped in 19, including booming three-pointer from deep left corner for a 107-101 spread. That ended Ginebras 12-1 assault, masterminded by Caguioa, that cut Talk N Texts lead to just three points.

Castro also netted double figures with 18 while Japeth Aguilar was huge off the bench with 10 points and five rebounds.

Caguioa had a conference-high 32 points, while Bozeman also scored 32 for the Gin Kings, whose record dropped to 4-4. No other Ginebra player hit double figures in scoring.

Its going to be a tough week. We are preparing ourselves for that, said Reyes, whose next assignment is B-MEG on Wednesday.

TNT 113 - Harris 30, De Ocampo 21, Fonacier 19, Castro 18, Aguilar 10, Alapag 5, Reyes 3, Williams 3, Aban 2, Peek 2.
GIN 111 - Bozeman 32, Caguioa 32, Ababou 7, Wilson W. 7, Helterbrand 7, Hatfield 7, Cortez 6, Canaleta 4, Villanueva 4, Maierhofer 3, Raymundo 2, Menk 0.
QS: 27-24, 54-47, 83-78, 113-11

Source: Unless otherwise specified, game recaps were compressed and compiled from InterAKTV. (Writing credit to Reynaldo Belen, Kris Lagman, and Rey Joble)


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


Dutkiewicz comes back to Energa Czarni Slupsk - by Eurobasket Center

Energa Czarni Slupsk added to their roster 26-year old guard Marcin Dutkiewicz (196-G-86). Its actually Dutkiewicz's comeback to Energa Czarni as he played here before. Dutkiewicz played most recently at AZS Koszalin (PLK). While playing 38 games for AZS Koszalin last season he recorded 9.2ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.1apg and 1.0spg. He helped them to win the cup. It was a very successful year in Dutkiewiczs career as he received an award of Eurobasket.com All-Polish League Most Improved Player of the Year.


Germany beat Poland to win Turgut Atakol Tournament - by Eurobasket News

Germany U20 - Poland U20 76:57

Germany clinched the title at the Turgut Atakol international tournament in Turkey. They shot down Polish counterparts on the final day of the competition. Mathis Monninghoff (200-F-92) provided 15 points to lead the winners.
Germany left their opponents far behind in the first half. They went on a 22:9 run in the opening quarter. Germany stretched the lead to 21 points at halftime 43:22. Germany held Poland to 10 points in the third term to take a 22-point lead into the fourth period. Poland finally adjusted offensive and erupted for 25 points in the final term but to no avail. Philipp Neumann (210-C-92) scored 12 points, while Besnik Bekteshi (188-G-93) and Ole Wendt (190-G-92, agency: Limelight Hoops) added 9 points each for Germany. Przemyslaw Karnowski (214-C-93) answered with 16 points for Poland. Michal Michalak (194-G-93, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) had 12 points in the loss.

Germany U20: Mathis Monninghoff 15, Philipp Neumann 12, Besnik Bekteshi 9, Ole Wendt 9
Poland U20: Przemyslaw Karnowski 16, Michal Michalak 12


Czarni Slupsk bring in All-Polish 1Liga Player of the Year - by Eurobasket News

Mateusz Kostrzewski (201-G/F-89) signs with Czarni Slupsk for 2012/2013 season. The Polish Swingman and Polish 1Liga Champion moves to PLK.
In 2005-2006 he appeared for Prokom Trefl Sopot junior team and then in 2006-2007 moved to OSSM PZKosz Sopot (2Liga, starting five), also Prokom Trefl Sopot junior team.
In 2008-2009 played for Asseco Prokom Sopot (PLK) and in 11 games averaged 1.8ppg; played also at Asseco Prokom II Sopot (1Liga, starting five) and in 16 games had 13.3ppg, 4.3rpg, FGP: 50.4%, 3PT: 36.8%, FT: 77.8%.
In 2009-2010 for Asseco Prokom Gdynia (PLK) he averaged 4.0ppg and in Euroleague had 0.3ppg. In 2010-2011 for Asseco Prokom Gdynia (PLK) debuted in VTB League and showed 2.4ppg, 1.0rpg. In Euroleague Mateusz Kostrzewski had 2.0ppg, while in Polish League averaged 2.3ppg, 1.5rpg.
Last season the player moved to KS Start Gdynia (1Liga, starting five) and became the fourth top-scorer of the league with 15.6ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.2apg, 1.5spg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 60.9%, 3PT: 34.0%, FT: 82.8%.
Only last year he became Polish League Supercup Finalist -12, reached Polish PZKosz Cup Semifinals -12, was named Eurobasket.com All-Polish 1Liga Player of the Year -12, Eurobasket.com All-Polish 1Liga Forward of the Year -12, Eurobasket.com All-Polish 1Liga 1st Team -12, became Polish 1Liga Regular Season Champion -12 and Polish 1Liga Champion -12.


Jakub Karolak signs with MKS Dabrowa Gornicza - by Eurobasket News

Jakub Karolak (196-G/F-93) signs with MKS Dabrowa Gornicza for the next season. One of the biggest Polish prospects comes from KKS Novum Lublin.
In 2009-2010 he joined KKS Novum Lublin (3Liga). Already in 2010-2011 for KKS Novum Lublin (2Liga) he erupted with 17.7ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.6apg, 1.6spg, 2FGP: 54.0%, 3PT: 29.0%, FT: 79.0%.
In 2011-2012 for KKS Novum Lublin (2Liga, starting five) he became the top-scorer of the league with 21.9ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.0apg, 2.4spg, 1.9bpg, FGP: 52.2%, 3PT: 37.9%, FT: 88.1%.
Over the last two yearshe was named Eurobasket.com All-Polish 2Liga Newcomer of the Year -11 and Eurobasket.com All-Polish 2Liga Honorable Mention -11. He reached Polish U20 Championships Semifinals -11 and became Eurobasket.com All-Polish 2Liga Group C Best Young Player of the Year -12. Also he made it into Eurobasket.com All-Polish 2Liga Group C 1st Team -12 and was awarded Eurobasket.com All-Polish 2Liga Best Young Player of the Year -12.
Jakub Karolak was a member of the Polish U18 National Team -11 and Polish U20 National Team -11.


Oded Brandwein heads to Energa Czarni Slupsk - by Eurobasket News

Oded Brandwein (188-G-88, agency: N.E.T.) heads to Energa Czarni Slupsk for the next season. According to Sportando.net the player will remain in Poland but with another team.
In 2005-2006 he started for Bney Herzeliya junior team and in 2006-2007 moved to Bnei Hasharon (Premier League). In 2007-2008 Oded played for Elitzur Ramla (National League) and averaged 12.1ppg, 1.6rpg, 2.5apg, 2FGP: 46.3%, 3PT: 37.7%, FT: 65.7%.
In 2008-2009 moved to Maccabi Hod Hasharon (National League) where his stats read 13.0ppg, 1.8rpg, 3.0apg, FGP: 47.4%, 3PT: 34.1%, FT: 74.2%. In 2009-2010 appeared for Elitzur Ramla (National League, starting five) and showed 16.4ppg, 1.7rpg, 5.1apg, FGP: 52.1%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 81.1%. In Jan.'10 moved to Hapoel Afula (Premier League, starting five), while in Dec.'10 signed at Elitzur Yavne (Israel-National League).
In 2011-2012 played for Kotwica Kolobrzeg (Poland-PLK) and averaged 12.2ppg, 1.9rpg, 4.0apg, FGP: 42.2%, 3PT: 36.6%, FT: 79.3%.


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


Puerto Rico makes final cut for Olympic Qualifier: - by Luis Modestti

The Puerto Rican national team coaching staff announced the final cut for the Olympic Qualifier that begins on July 2 in Caracas, Venezuela.

Puerto Rico made the announcement one day after getting the Silver medal in the Centrobasket Championship as they lost to the Dominican Republic 80-72.

The twelve finalists are:

Point guards: Carlos Arroyo (188-G-79, college: FIU), Jose Juan Barea, Andres Rodriguez
Shooting guards: David Huertas, Mike Rosario
Forwards: Alex Galindo, Alex Franklin, Nathan Peavy, Renaldo Balkman, Ricky Sanchez
Centers: Daniel Santiago and Peter John Ramos.

The three who were in Centrobasket that didn't make the cut are Edwin Ubiles (NBA camps), Angel Garcia (knee) and Filiberto Rivera.

Puerto Rico plays against Macedonia on June 27 and 28 at Coliseo de Puerto Rico. Another game prior to the Olympic Qualifier is against the Dominican Republic on June 30 in Caracas, Venezuela.

The Olympic Qualifier is scheduled for July 2-8 in Caracas and the top three teams qualify for the Olympic Games in London.

The Puerto Ricans are in Group A of the Olympic Qualifier with Greece and Jordan.


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


Andrija Ciric heads to BC Mures - by Eurobasket News

Andrija Ciric (199-G-80, agency: BeoExcell) heads to BC Mures for the next season. The Serbian player just inked with the Romanian team.
Last year Keflavik added depth to their backcourt. They have agreed on terms of contract with Andrija Ciric. The Serbian guard started 2010 season in AEL in Cyprus. The guard averaged 10.3 points and 3.3 rebounds per game. Andrija Ciric left the team in November. Last season the guard played in Poland. He notched 10.3 points, 2.8 rebounds and 1.1 assists for PBG Basket. Andrija Ciric made it into Eurobasket.com All-Hungarian League 1st Team in 2008 while playing for Falco Szombathely. The guard also played in Serbia, Bosnia, Belgium and Ukraine. Andrija Ciric is expected to appear on court on Thursday when Keflavik host Fjolnir.
In 2011-2012 he played for PVSK Pannonpower Pecs (Hungary-A Division, starting five) and became the second top-scorer of the league. He averaged 22.0ppg, 5.0rpg, 1.8apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 52.0%, 3PT: 42.9%, FT: 80.3%.


Catalin Baciu pens deal with U Mobitelco Cluj-Napoca - by Eurobasket News

Catalin Baciu (218-C-88) pens deal with U Mobitelco Cluj-Napoca for 2012/2013 season. The Romanian player comes back from NCAA.
In 2005-2006 he started for BU Poli-Mobitelco-Carbochim Cluj Napoca (Div.A) and then left for USA. In 2008-2009 he appeared for Clemson (NCAA) and averaged 2.0ppg, 2.1rpg. In his last season there his stats read 4.1ppg, 2.1rpg.
In NCAA Catalin Baciu was honored with the Tom Lynch Most Improved Award. He accounted for 68 percent of his career points (126 of 184) as a senior in 2011-12. The 7-foot-2 center also led the Tigers with a 58 percent field goal accuracy in 2011-12.
Baciu earned the team's Tiger Strength Award after his freshman and junior seasons. He gained 18 pounds from July of 2008 through the end of the 2008-09 season. He played at the Under 20 European Championships for his home country in the summer of 2007 and averaged 7.1 points and 7.1 rebounds per game as the youngest member of Romania's team.


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


Samet Geyik leads Turkey past Russia - by Eurobasket News

Turkey U20 - Russia U20 70:60

Turkish U20 National Team earned victory on the final day of the Turgut Atakol international tournament in Turkey. They held off Russia to occupy the second overall position at the tourney. Samet Geyik (206-F-93) stepped up with 18 points to lead the winners.
Turkey snatched a narrow 18:14 lead after ten minutes. They stretched the distance in the second quarter. The hosts built a 38:30 halftime advantage. Russia however turned things around in the third frame. They held the home side to just 6 points in the stanza to narrow the deficit to two points 42:44. But Turkey recovered pretty quickly scoring 26 points and sealed the victory at the end. Yunus Emre delivered 14 points, while Berkay Candan (205-F-93) had 10 points for the winning side. Vladislav Trushkin (201-F-93) answered with 17 points for Russia. Artem Vikhrov (196-PG-92) had 12 points in the loss.

Turkey U20: Samet Geyik 18, Yunus Emre 14, Berkay Candan 10
Russia U20: Vladislav Trushkin 17, Artem Vikhrov 12


Victor Zvarykin heads to Unics - by Eurobasket News

Victor Zvarykin (198-G-86) heads to Unics for the next season. The Russian Guard moves from Triumph Lyubertsy.
In 2011 Triumph have secured the services of Victor Zvarykin for one season. The guard started the earlier season with Unics. He tallied 1.3 points per game in PBL. In VTB League his stats read 4.0 points and 2.0 rebounds per appearance. In January Victor Zvarykin moved to Krasnye Krilya. The guard notched 7.3 points, 3.0 rebounds and 1.2 assists per appearance in Samara. Previously Victor Zvarykin played for Dynamo-2 Moscow and Ural Great-2. Eurobasket.com named Victor Zvarykin All-Russian Superleague A Newcomer of the Year in 2010.
In 2011-2012 for Triumph Lyubertsy (PBL) Victor Zvarykin averaged 7.7ppg, 3.2rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 51.9%, 3PT: 35.7%, FT: 57.1% in EuroChallenge. In Baltic League his stats read 10.2ppg, 3.3rpg, 2.2apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 54.6%, 3PT: 26.5%, FT: 62.2%, while in Russian League he showed 6.6ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 46.3%, 3PT: 43.8%, FT: 50.0%.


*****************************************************
  RWANDA   


Rwanda Bids to Host Junior Championships - by Eurobasket News

Rwanda's bid to host the 2013 African Junior Athletics championship will be on top of the agenda during the African Athletics Confederation assembly in Benin, this weekend, ahead of the African Athletics Championships.

The National Athletics Federation's Jean Damascne Nkezabo disclosed that Rwanda is currently the only country that has shown interest in staging the event.

Nkezabo and the Director of Sports Federations in the Ministry of Sports, Emmanuel Bugingo, will attend the convention to defend Rwanda's bid.

According to the Secretary General of the Athletics Federations Johnson Rukundo, the country has the capacity to host the event.

"We meet the minimum requirements necessary to host such a continental event and there is confidence that the bid will be successful"

"First and foremost, we have the financial backing from government; hotels, stadia, security and communication are up to standard"

"We are working on other technical things like getting training areas and a few other things."Rukundo said.

If the bid is approved, it will be the first time Rwanda has hosted a continental Athletics competition and it would mark a big milestone in the chaotic Athletics federation which has been a beehive of embezzlement of funds, wrangling and poor leadership for the last few years.

Rwanda's ability to host big sporting competitions is in no doubt after successfully hosting the 2009 U-20 and 2011 U-17 African junior soccer championships, Afro-Basketball championships, cycling events and other tournaments in Volleyball and Handball.

Meanwhile a contingent of six athletes leaves on Monday for Porto-Nova, Benin to represent Rwanda at African Athletics Championship.

Robert Kajuga and Claudette Mukasakindi will compete in the 10,000m, while Cyriaque Ndayikengurukiye and Emmanuel Ntakiyimana will run in the 5000m and 400m races, respectively.

For the first time, the country will send a participant in the long jump.

Top athletes including Kajuga, Mukasakindi and Ndayikengurukiye will be hoping to get the required minimum qualification times to qualify for the 2012 London Olympics Games.

Benin has already received the final entries of 48 countries and 1038 athletes to take part at the African Athletics Championships which will be held in Porto Novo in less than 2 weeks. It represents a record for this continental event.
Courtesy of: Rwanda Express (Kigali)


Local Youth Basketball Team to Wind Up Zone Five Preps in Bujumbura - by Eurobasket News

Rwanda's U-18 team is leaving no stone unturned to enable them stage a successful Zone Five U-18 qualifiers from July 17-22 in Kigali.

The national team is leaving for Burundi's town Bujumbura to fine tune and take part in a regional tournament dubbed as Great Lakes regional basketball tournament which is also set to attract teams from Burundi and DRC.

The Rwanda basketball federation president Desire Mugwiza said on Friday that Rwanda will use the event to access the level of the players before head coach Nenad Amanovic desires his final team for the zonal qualifiers.

"We want to test our players in this tournament because we believe there is great opposition and challenge that can help them get used ahead of the zonal qualifiers,"

In a related development, the local basketball federation has been boasted with a Rwf. 120million package to organise the zonal qualifiers competition.

The week-long competition will attract six teams which include Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Sudan and Ethiopia.

The men's team will be bolstered by foreign based players who jet in next month and they include: Adronis Rwabigwi, Ngenzi Eric, Manzi Danny, Karenzi Ronald, Twagirayezu Patrice, Ishimwe Norbert, Rutare Jonathan, and Shyaka Scifon.
Courtesy of: Rwanda Express (Kigali)


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


Andrija Ciric heads to BC Mures - by Eurobasket News

Andrija Ciric (199-G-80, agency: BeoExcell) heads to BC Mures for the next season. The Serbian player just inked with the Romanian team.
Last year Keflavik added depth to their backcourt. They have agreed on terms of contract with Andrija Ciric. The Serbian guard started 2010 season in AEL in Cyprus. The guard averaged 10.3 points and 3.3 rebounds per game. Andrija Ciric left the team in November. Last season the guard played in Poland. He notched 10.3 points, 2.8 rebounds and 1.1 assists for PBG Basket. Andrija Ciric made it into Eurobasket.com All-Hungarian League 1st Team in 2008 while playing for Falco Szombathely. The guard also played in Serbia, Bosnia, Belgium and Ukraine. Andrija Ciric is expected to appear on court on Thursday when Keflavik host Fjolnir.
In 2011-2012 he played for PVSK Pannonpower Pecs (Hungary-A Division, starting five) and became the second top-scorer of the league. He averaged 22.0ppg, 5.0rpg, 1.8apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 52.0%, 3PT: 42.9%, FT: 80.3%.


France fire past Serbia in Istanbul - by Eurobasket News

France U20 - Serbia U20 61:49

French U20 National Team celebrated the third win at the Turgut Atakol international tournament. They defeated Serbia to clinch the third position. Louis Labeyrie (209-C-92) and Hugo Invernizzi (196-G/F-93) stepped up with 15 points each for the winners.
Serbia gained a 17:11 lead after ten minutes. But France rebounded in the second quarter. Les Bleus surged ahead for a 31:30 halftime lead. France extended the advantage in the third quarter. They opened a 12-point advantage with ten minutes remaining 50:38. The teams traded baskets throughout the final quarter France kept Serbia at bay. Jean-Charles Livio (203-PF-93) accounted for 12 points for the winners. Nemanja Bezbradica (205-F/C-93, agency: Beo Basket) notched 10 points and 8 rebounds for Serbia. Nenad Miljenovic (194-G-93, agency: Beo Basket) and Aleksandar Cvetkovic (185-PG-93) chipped in 9 points each in defeat.

France U20: Louis Labeyrie 15, Hugo Invernizzi 15, Jean-Charles Livio 12
Serbia U20: Nemanja Bezbradica 10, Nenad Miljenovic 9, Aleksandar Cvetkovic 9


China prevail against Serbia in Kunshan - by Eurobasket News

China - Serbia 88:80

Chinese National Team celebrated the third straight win at the Sino-European Challenge Event tournament in Kunshan. The hosts held off Serbian University National Team to stay undefeated. Wang ZhiZhi (214-C-77) erupted for 27 points to lead the hosts.
China got to a flying start. The hosts built a 31:15 lead at the end of the first quarter. They controlled the tempo throughout the second quarter. China ensured a 44:27 halftime advantage. Serbia however picked up the tempo in the third term. They unloaded 30 points in the third frame to narrow the gap at 8-point mark with one quarter to go. Serbia got within five points in the final period but China withheld the challenge and escaped with the victory at the end. Jianlian Yi (213-F/C-87) produced 23 points, while Wang ShiPeng (196-G/F-83) had 12 points for the hosts. Darko Balaban (211-C-89, agency: Beo Basket) answered with 17 points for Serbia. Milos Dimic (195-G-89) netted 15 points in the loss.

China: Wang ZhiZhi 27, Jianlian Yi 23, Wang ShiPeng 12
Serbia: Darko Balaban 17, Milos Dimic 15


Partizan announced the return of Dusko Vujosevic - by Eurobasket News

Partizan announced the return of Dusko Vujosevic (agency: Beo Basket ) after two seasons. The Montenegrin Head Coach is back to the Serbian champions.
In 2010 Dusko Vujosevic (agency: Beo Basket ) took over CSKA and became a Head Coach of the team for 2010/2011 season. The coach arrived from Partizan Beograd when he spent almost 10 years. In 2001 he was in Radnicki Beograd and then moved to Partizan Beograd. In 2009 with Partizan his team reached glory and a loud name not only in Europe but in the world as well. Together with the team he became Radivoj Korac (Serbian Cup) Winner -08, 09, 10, Eurobasket.com All-Adriatic League Coach of the Year -08, 09, 10, Adriatic League Regular Season Champion -08, 09, reached Euroleague Quarterfinals -08, 09, became Eurobasket.com All-Serbian League Coach of the Year -08, 09, 10, Eurobasket.com All-Euroleague Coach of the Year -10 and reached Euroleague Final Four -10.


Novica Velickovic out of Real Madrid - by Ivan Milenkovic

Novica Velickovic (205-F-86) will be looking for new team this summer after three years in Madrid. Real signed 3+1 contract with Serbian power forward in 2009, but didn't want to use option to extend deal until 2013. Former Partizan player had many injury problems during previous three seasons and it was main reason for Spanish giants to release him. Even when Novica was healthy, he didn't have big role in Real Madrid. Only exception was semifinal series against Caja Laboral in this year's playoffs, when Serbian played great, but that obviously wasn't enough for Novica Velickovic (205-F-86) to convince Spanish team that he deserves another chance. Real Madrid released Ante Tomic, too.


Nemanja Bjelica in Minnesota Timberwolves training camp - by Zoran Popovic

According to Serbian sports news, Serbian National team players Nemanja Bjelica (209-F/C-88, agency: Interperformances) accept invitation and next period will practice with Minnesota Timberwolves and coach Adelman. On NBA draft 2010. Washington Wizards choose Bjelica as 35th pick and transfer him to Minnesota Timberwolves. Last season Bjelica in Caja Laboral on 10 games in Euroleague Bjelica average scored 4.8 points, 2.1 rebounds, 1.0 assist and on 40 games in ENDESA league average scored 6.2 points, 3.8 rebounds per game. Nemanja Bjelica is on the list of candidates for National team and qualifications for European Championship next year.


Sinisa Matic extends contract with Vojvodina Srbija Gas - by Zoran Popovic

After great season, Management of KK Vojvodina Srbija Gas decides to extend contract with head coach Sinisa Matic . Last season Vojvodina Srbija Gas finished on the first place in Serbian league and qualified in Serbian Super league. Super league Vojvodina finished on the 4th place and played play off semifinal with Partizan Beograd. During the career coach Matic led KK Zemun youth and senior team, KK Novi Sad and last season Vojvodina Srbija Gas.


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


Real Madrid will play in US against Grizzlies and Raptors - by Eurobasket News

Real Madrid will play two games in the US against two NBA teams.
On October 6th, Real Madrid will play against Memphis Grizzlies and two days later (October 8th), Real will play against Toronto Raptors.

The other European team who will be in the States is Maccabi Haifa from Israel.
Courtesy of: Sportando.net via ASsignia Manresa Official Website


Malaga eye Jaka Lakovic - by Eurobasket News

Malaga eye Jaka Lakovic (186-G-78) for the next season. The Spanish team was turned down by Ukic and now hopes to get the Slovenia player.
Last year Galatasaray signed Jaka Lakovic for 2011/2012 season. The Slovenian player arrived from Regal FC Barcelona where he stayed since year 2006. In 2006-2007 Jaka joined Winterthur F.C. Barcelona (Spain-ACB, starting five) and in the first season averaged 10.3ppg, 1.7rpg, 3.5apg, 2FGP: 48.4%, 3FGP: 39.8%, FT: 76.8% in EuroLeague, while in Spanish ACB Regular Season after 34 games had10.9ppg, 1.5rpg, 3.2apg, 1.0spg, 2FGP: 50.0%, 3FGP: 43.0%, FT: 88.0%. In Spanish ACB Play-Offs his stats read 12.4ppg, 2.1rpg, 3.8apg, 2FGP: 29.0%, 3FGP: 51.0%, FT: 88.0%. In the last season for Regal FC Barcelona (Spain-ACB) Jaka Lakovic averaged 6.4ppg, 1.9apg, FGP: 54.8%, 3PT: 36.5%, FT: 64.3% in EuroLeague and in Spanish League had 5.1ppg, 1.3apg, FGP: 47.2%, 3PT: 28.8%, FT-2 (94.5%).
In 2011-2012 for Galatasaray Medical Park Istanbul (Turkey-TBL) Jaka Lakovic averaged 9.9ppg, 1.8rpg, 2.7apg, FGP: 47.6%, 3PT: 37.6%, FT: 84.1% in EuroLeague. In Turkish League after 35 games his stats read 10.5ppg, 1.7rpg, 2.9apg, FGP: 45.3%, 3PT: 43.2%, FT: 89.0%.


UCAM Murcia keep Oscar Quintana - by Eurobasket News

UCAM Murcia kept Oscar Quintana (agency: Interperformances ) on the bridge. The team extended the contract of the specialist for another season. Oscar Quintana (agency: Interperformances ) took over UCAM Murcia in February. He guided the team at 13-21 record in ACB avoiding relegation. Previously Oscar Quintana (agency: Interperformances ) had stints with Alicante, Ricoh Manresa, CAI Zaragoza, Fuenlabrada. He was LEB Gold winner in 2009. Oscar Quintana (agency: Interperformances ) also worked with Spanish U20 National Team.


Real Madrid farewell to Tomic and Velickovic - by Eurobasket News

Real Madrid farewell to Ante Tomic (217-C-87) and Novica Velickovic (205-F-86) and will not have the players in 2012/2013 roster. According to Eurosport Spain via Sportando.net, the Spanish powerhouse had an option to extend Tomic's contract for one more season but decided to let him leave due to his poor performances during the year. Velckovic has one more year with Real Madrid but the club, despite a decent season, decided to get rid of him due to the numerous injuries he suffered in his three years in Madrid.
Ante Tomic is a Croatian Center who joined real in 2010. Last season he averaged 6.7ppg, 3.7rpg, FGP: 54.3%, FT: 65.0% in EuroLeague. In Spanish League after 44 games his stats read 8.0ppg, 4.9rpg, FGP: 56.9%, FT: 61.0%.
Novica Velickovic is a Serbian Forward. He joined Real in 2009 and averaged 9.9ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 61.5%, 3PT: 32.2%, FT: 70.0% in his first season. In 2011-2012 for Real Madrid (Spain-ACB), was injured in Oct.'11 and was off for 6 weeks. In Euroleague he showed 4.1ppg, 1.9rpg, 1.6apg, while in Spanish League his stats read: 6.8ppg, 3.3rpg, FGP: 52.8%, 3PT: 41.2%, FT: 73.7%.


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


Sweden wins Nordic Championship of Men U20 - by Eurobasket News

Sweden wins Nordic Championship of Men U20 with 4 participating teams. The team won 2 games and lost 1 to take the top position of year 2012.
In Day 1 Denmark U20 surprised Sweden U20 62:60. The latter led 16-11 after the first 10 minutes, but lost all three other quarters. Denmark needed 22-21 in the last one to seal the victory in the opener. Kevin Larsen (204-F-93) top-scored for the winners with 29 points and Anders Haas netted 13. Viktor Gaddefors (203-SF-92) replied with 17 points, while Charles Barton and Sebastian Norman scored 11 each.
In Day 2 Sweden U20 stormed past Norway U20 100:48. Sweden started with 30-13 and added 22-15 in the second frame. Moreover Sweden won the third and the last quarters to seal the victory. Sebastian Norman paced all the winners with 16 points and Karl Ornher delivered 15. Jakob Baiden (198-F) posted 11 points in the losing case.
In Day 3 Sweden 20 needed a 91:67 victory over Finland U20 to take the top place at the tournament. Viktor Gaddefors erupted with 31 points to lead all the winners and Tobias Borg netted 16. Villematti Kopio (182-PG-92) posted 23 points for the Finnish side.


*****************************************************
  TAIWAN   


Taiwanese U18 National Team 2012 - by Eurobasket Center

Cheng Chi-Kuan
Fang Shih-En
Wu Chia-Chun
Lu Kuan-Hsuan 95
Chiu Jih-Cheng
Huang Tsun-Han
Liu Jen-Hao 95
Lu Tsun-Lin
Huang Hung-Han
Lee Kun-Yu
Lin Kuan-Chun
Chin Ming-Ching
Tseng Pin-Fu
Chiang Sheng-Yu
Lin Wei-Che
Lee Chia-Jui
Lo Yu-Hung
Chen Po-Liang 96
Lee Yu-Wei
Wu Yu-Ta 95
Hsieh Tsun-Jung
Lin Yu-Ping
Lee Chun-Min
Wu Yung-Cheng

Hsin-shu Yen Head Coach BYU-Hawaii USA



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


Samet Geyik leads Turkey past Russia - by Eurobasket News

Turkey U20 - Russia U20 70:60

Turkish U20 National Team earned victory on the final day of the Turgut Atakol international tournament in Turkey. They held off Russia to occupy the second overall position at the tourney. Samet Geyik (206-F-93) stepped up with 18 points to lead the winners.
Turkey snatched a narrow 18:14 lead after ten minutes. They stretched the distance in the second quarter. The hosts built a 38:30 halftime advantage. Russia however turned things around in the third frame. They held the home side to just 6 points in the stanza to narrow the deficit to two points 42:44. But Turkey recovered pretty quickly scoring 26 points and sealed the victory at the end. Yunus Emre delivered 14 points, while Berkay Candan (205-F-93) had 10 points for the winning side. Vladislav Trushkin (201-F-93) answered with 17 points for Russia. Artem Vikhrov (196-PG-92) had 12 points in the loss.

Turkey U20: Samet Geyik 18, Yunus Emre 14, Berkay Candan 10
Russia U20: Vladislav Trushkin 17, Artem Vikhrov 12


Simone Pianigiani: 'With Fenerbahce, we re-start together' - by Pervin Elgin

The Italian coach signed a two plus one deal with the Turkish powerhouse.

Simone Pianigiani became officially the new head coach of Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul for the next two seasons with an option for a third year. The coach of the Italian National team talked to La Gazzetta dello Sport about his first days in Istanbul.

"With Fenerbahce, we re-start together. Their management is brand new with Kemal Dincer who became the new General Manager. I had a good feeling with him as soon as we started talking about our new project. We share the same ideas. Their request is to build a new system, where all the players are involved. Fenerbahce has NBA-Level Facilities and our goal is to have players loyal to the club. Our target is to stay among the top teams in Europe. When I decided to leave Siena, I wanted to be focused just on the National Team, but then Fenerbahce came with this important offer and I could not say NO. As assistant coach I would love to have with me someone who knows already my philosophy. Yesterday I had dinner in an awesome place on Bosphorus. I said to myself: 'Enjoy these moments'. I am tired because my last week was full of emotions, all positive. It is great to start a new, important adventure with big expectations".

Courtesy of sportando.net


*****************************************************
  U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS   


Zero Tolerance 16-18 division results - by David Edole

ST. THOMAS AGSUF (2-0) exploded for 23 fourth quarter points to rout All Coast Ballers, 59-45, in the first game of Zero Tolerance 16-18 Summer Basketball League. Jah-Gamba Felix was the man of the match as he scored eight of his 14 points in the final frame. Dekwani Norford added 12 points and Jmoi Smith chipped in with nine. Sevens was the name as five All Coast Ballers (1-1) scored seven points. Jahmari Rivera, Shanoi Miller, Shaquani Buchanan, James Petty and Raheem Huggins all tallied seven points. Virgin Islands junior national team member, Achkel Bazil, dominated for 13 points to lead Jah Youths to an overtime victory over Justice, 57-52. Dominick Purpura and Sekayi Petersen also tallied double figures for Jah Youths (1-1). Purpura had 12 and Petersen chipped in with 10. Roderick David led Justice (0-2) with 14 points while Patrick Smith Jr. and Rohan David both finished the contest with 12 points each. Action continues Tuesday June 26th with three games in the 9-12 division. Games start promptly at 5:15 pm at CAHS Gymnasium .


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


Ukraine U16 sweep the series over Belarus opponents - by Eurobasket News

Ukraine U16 sweep the series over Belarus opponents. The home side won all three games in the capital.
Eurobasket wrote that in game 1 Ukraine celebrated an easy win. In Game 2 Ukraine grabbed a 70:68 win due to the last period. They started with 17-13 and led 5 points at the halftime, but Belarus grabbed 1-point lead after 26-20 in the third stanza. Ukraine needed 19-16 to take the second straight win. Oleksandr Kobets (192-SF-96) paced all the winners with 16 points, whiel Salas replied with 15 points and 16 rebounds in defeat.
In game 3 Ukraine celebrated a 78:65 victory. They started with 19-12 and added 22-21 in the second period. Moreover Ukraine won the third period 20-18 and finished the game with 17-13 in the last stanza. Balaban top-scored for the winners with 25 points and 14 rebounds, while Sviatoslav Mykhailiuk (194-SG-97) netted 13. Salas and Kandibovich replied with 16 points each in defeat.


Josh Mayo close to MBC Mykolaiv - by Eurobasket News

MBC Mykolaiv have reportedly agreed on terms of contract with Josh Mayo (182-G-87, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav, college: Ill.-Chicago). The guard may soon join his former coach Agris Galvanovskis who took over Mykolaiv. Josh Mayo played under the guidance of Agris Galvanovskis in Liepajas Lauvas last season. The guard notched 16.2 points, 3.4 boards, 3.3 assists and 1.3 steals per game in Baltic League. In LBL Josh Mayo notched 18.1 points, 5.1 assists, 3.9 rebounds and 1.8 steals per appearance. Eurobasket.com named the guard All-Latvian League Player of the Year. He also made it into All-Baltic League 1st Team. The guard participated at LBL All-Star Game. Josh Mayo started his pro career in France in 2009/10 season. He played for Stade Clermontois Basket.


Italy race past Ukraine for Torneo di Roseto title - by Eurobasket News

Italy U20 - Ukraine U20 74:61

Italian U20 National Team clinched the title at Torneo di Roseto. They posted the third straight win yesterday. The hosts overcame Ukraine for the trophy. Eric Lombardi (200-F-93) provided 19 points to lead the winners.
The teams stayed neck and neck throughout the opening quarter. Italy eked out a 19:18 lead at the first pause. Things hardly changed in the second period. The teams exchanged baskets as Italy snatched a 37:35 halftime lead. The Azzurri stretched the gap in the third quarter. They went on a 21:10 run to ensure a 58:45 buffer heading into the fourth term. Ukraine did not recover in the final stages of the game as Italy cruised to the victory. Tommaso Ingrosso (206-PF-92) finished with 12 points, while Marco Lagana (194-G-93) added 10 points for Italy. Vyacheslav Bobrov (202-F-92) answered with 17 points for Ukraine. Artem Pustovyi (216-C-92, agency: Beo Basket) netted 14 points in defeat.

Italy U20: Eric Lombardi 19, Tommaso Ingrosso 12, Marco Lagana 10
Ukraine U20: Vyacheslav Bobrov 17, Artem Pustovyi 14


*****************************************************
  UNITED KINGDOM   


Luol Deng will not be shocked if Bulls trade him - by Eurobasket News

Chicago Bulls forward Luol Deng (6'9''-F-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Duke) revealed this weekend that he will not be surprised if the Bulls trade him this offseason.

While at training camp in Texas with Great Britains national team preparing for the London Olympics, Deng said he does not believe the Bulls are shopping him in retaliation for his decision to delay the wrist surgery he needs until after the Games.

But Deng, 27, did acknowledge that hes not dismissing recent reports suggesting the Bulls are willing to trade him for a top pick in Thursdays NBA draft, with speculation mounting that Chicago could send Deng to the Golden State Warriors in exchange for the No. 7 overall pick.

I believe there is always to some extent truth behind rumors, Deng said. But as an athlete, if you get caught up in them, you are really wasting your time because its not something you can control.

If its not true, a GM could always come out and say its not true. But if a GM doesnt come out and say it, there are probably talks. And there should be. If I was a GM I would be shopping players around too. Ive got to show that Im doing something.

Courtesy of Ian Whittell, special to ESPN Chicago


*****************************************************
  VTB UNITED LEAGUE   


Victor Zvarykin heads to Unics - by Eurobasket News

Victor Zvarykin (198-G-86) heads to Unics for the next season. The Russian Guard moves from Triumph Lyubertsy.
In 2011 Triumph have secured the services of Victor Zvarykin for one season. The guard started the earlier season with Unics. He tallied 1.3 points per game in PBL. In VTB League his stats read 4.0 points and 2.0 rebounds per appearance. In January Victor Zvarykin moved to Krasnye Krilya. The guard notched 7.3 points, 3.0 rebounds and 1.2 assists per appearance in Samara. Previously Victor Zvarykin played for Dynamo-2 Moscow and Ural Great-2. Eurobasket.com named Victor Zvarykin All-Russian Superleague A Newcomer of the Year in 2010.
In 2011-2012 for Triumph Lyubertsy (PBL) Victor Zvarykin averaged 7.7ppg, 3.2rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 51.9%, 3PT: 35.7%, FT: 57.1% in EuroChallenge. In Baltic League his stats read 10.2ppg, 3.3rpg, 2.2apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 54.6%, 3PT: 26.5%, FT: 62.2%, while in Russian League he showed 6.6ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 46.3%, 3PT: 43.8%, FT: 50.0%.


*****************************************************
  WBA   


Atlanta Blaze on fire! - by Greg

Atlanta, Ga. - Atlanta Blaze stay on fire and moves to 3-0 with a 130-119 win against the Rome Gladiators in WBA action. " I am proud of how the team came together with some of our key players out" Coach Lionel Garrett . The WBA leader in scoring averaging 132ppg had balance scoring with 7 players finishing in double figures. Robert Murry (5'11''-G-88, college: Clayton St.) 25pts was top with Terry Martin (6'6''-F-89, college: Wofford) and Ervin Herron (6'4''-F, college: So.Poly State) sharing 22 pts. The Blaze are back in action in Lywood Sat,June 30 against the Upstate Heat.



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

Women News


Austria win two against Czech Republic U20 - by Eurobasket News

Austrian National Team played two friendly encounters versus Czech Republic U20 selection. Austrian team claimed two narrow victories.
The first game was a tough battle from start to finish. The Czechs led by a single point 37:36 at halftime. Austria turned things around in the third frame. They held their opponents to 7 points to take the lead. Austria then hung on to it clinching a narrow 61:60 victory at the end. Julia Koeppl (187-F/C-91) stepped up with 12 points for Austria. Sophia Plank (178-G/F-83) added 11 points, while Nina Suritsch (189-F/C-84) contributed 8 points for the winners.
Austria started the next game more aggressively. They grabbed a 25:14 lead at the first break. The teams traded baskets in the second quarter as Austria secured a 42:31 halftime advantage. But Czech Republic increased the tempo in the third frame. They outscored Austria to narrow the deficit at just 4 points with ten minutes remaining. Austria had to adjust their defence in the fourth quarter and they did holding their opponents to 8 points and claiming a well-deserved win at the end 68:60. Julia Koeppl netted 13 points for Austria. Sarah Schicher (188-F-90) had 11 points, while Sophia Plank and Eva Breuer (168-G-83, agency: Warren Sports International) banked 7 points apiece in the victory.


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


Olympic Qualifying Tournament: Canada thrash Mali - by Eurobasket News

Canada - Mali 89:23

Canada recorded the first win at the Olympic Qualifying tournament. They thumped Mali in Ankara tonight. Courtnay Pilypaitis (184-G-88, college: Vermont) stepped up with 15 points, 10 assists and 6 rebounds to lead the winners.
The North American team dominated from start to finish. Canada built a 22:6 lead after the starting quarter. They stretched the margin by 20 points in the second quarter. Canada established a 46:10 halftime lead. Mali struggled both defensively and offensively and faced a massive 51-point deficit before the final quarter. Canada did not look back in the final quarter marching to a cruising win at the end. Kimberley Smith (187-F-84, college: Utah) provided 11 points, while Miranda Ayim (191-F/C-88, college: Pepperdine) added 10 points for the winners. Nassira Traore (185-F/C-91) answered with 7 points for Mali. Fanta Guindo (168-F/G-94) had 6 points in the loss.

Canada: Courtnay Pilypaitis 15+10 assists, Kimberley Smith 11, Miranda Ayim 10
Mali: Nassira Traore 7, Fanta Guindo 6


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


Olympic Qualifying Tournament: Croatia wins the opener in Ankara - by Eurobasket News

Croatia-Mozambique 84:62

Croatia wins the opener in Ankara at the Olympic Qualifying Tournament. The European team got off with an easy win over Mozambique 84:62 in Group C.
Croatia easily started the game with 27:12 and never looked behind after. They added 15-13 in the second frame to take 42:25 lead at the halftime. Mozambique came back to the court in a better shape and responded with 20-15 in the third period. The team from Africa trailed 12 points after thirty minutes, but could not come closer. Croatia added 27-17 in the last stanza to seal the victory.
Ana Lelas (183-G/F-83) top-scored for the winners with 20 points and Sandra Mandir (177-G-77) netted 16. Jelena Ivezic (182-F/G-84) delivered 14, while Emanuela Salopek (179-G-87) notched 9. Clarisse Machanguana (194-C-73, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: ODU) responded with 23 points and 13 rebounds in the losing effort. Anabela Cossa (171-G-86) followed her with 11 and Ana Flavia Joao DE AZINHEIRA had 10.

Croatia: Ana Lelas 20, Sandra Mandir 16, Jelena Ivezic 14, Emanuela Salopek 9
Mozambique: Clarisse Machanguana 23+13 rebs, Anabela Cossa 11, Ana Flavia Joao DE AZINHEIRA 10


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


Olympic Qualifying Tournament: Czech Republic roll over New Zealand in Day 1 - by Eurobasket News

Czech Republic-New Zealand 70:51

Czech Republic roll over New Zealand in Day 1 of the Olympic Qualifying Tournament. The European side celebrated a 70:51 win in Ankara.
Czech Republic was the favorite of the game and proved their ambitions from the very beginning. They started the game with 20-6 and did not allow the opponent to respond in the game. The European team added 24-19 in the second quarter and had 19-point lead at the halftime. New Zealand started to play better in the second half and managed to tie both quarters. Both teams nailed 10 points in the third period and then exchanged 16 points in the last stanza.
Eva Viteckova (190-F-82) top-scored for the winners with 22 points and Petra Kulichova (198-C-84) collected 13 points and 13 rebounds. Ilona Burgrova (196-C-84, college: S.Carolina) posted 12, while Katerina Elhotova (180-SG-89) added 10. Jillian Harmon (185-F-87, college: Stanford) ended up with 9 points in the losing effort, whilst Natalie Taylor (182-F-84, college: SE Missouri St.) netted 7.

Czech Republic: Eva Viteckova 22, Petra Kulichova 13+13 rebs, Ilona Burgrova 12, Katerina Elhotova 10
New Zealand: Jillian Harmon 9, Natalie Taylor 7


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


Ivana Jalcova signs with CCC Polkowice - by Eurobasket News

Ivana Jalcova (182-G-83) signs with CCC Polkowice for 2012/2013 season. According to lovewomensbasketball.com, the Slovakian player moves to Poland.
The season 2011-2012 she started for Lotos Gdynia (Poland-PLKK) and in Polish League averaged 6.3ppg, 2.9rpg, 3.5apg, FGP: 31.1%, 3PT: 38.5%, FT: 73.9%. In Euroleague after 14 games her stats read 7.5ppg, 3.0rpg, 3.1apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 30.4%, 3PT: 37.3%, FT: 82.4%. In Feb.'12 however she moved to Famila Wuber Schio (Italy-A1) and in Italian League showed 5.4ppg, 1.6rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 58.6%, 3PT: 37.0%, FT: 50.0%, while in Euroleague Ivana had 2.3ppg, 1.7rpg.
As a member of the Slovakian National Team -09-11 she was a great player at the European Championships in Latvia -09. In 4 games her stats read 7.5ppg, 2.0rpg, 1.5apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 71.4%. At the Qualifications to European Championships 2011 -10 in 6 games she improved to 12.2ppg, 3.7rpg, 4.0apg, FGP: 44.1%, 3PT: 41.4%.


*****************************************************
  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS   

Standings Div.A (Women)

Standings
Group A
1. Belarus4-0
2. Hungary2-1
3. Israel1-2
4. Ukraine1-2
5. Portugal0-3
Group B
1. Montenegro.4-0
2. Poland2-1
3. Serbia1-2
4. Switzerlan.1-2
5. Estonia0-3
Group C
1. Slovenia3-0
2. Lithuania3-1
3. Slovakia2-1
4. Holland0-3
5. Belgium0-3
Group D
1. Spain3-1
2. Germany2-1
3. Sweden2-1
4. Romania1-2
5. Bulgaria0-3
Group E
1. Latvia3-1
2. Finland2-1
3. Italy2-1
4. Greece1-2
5. Luxembourg.0-3

Qualifying Round: Round 4

A

Jun. 23: UKR - BLR 51-55
Jun. 23: ISR - HUN 46-64

B

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

C

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

D

Jun. 24: GER - BUL 77-56
Jun. 23: ROM - ESP 51-68

E

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

Qualifying Round: Round 5

A

Jun. 27: HUN - UKR
Jun. 27: POR - ISR

B

Jun. 27: SRB - EST
Jun. 27: SUI - POL

C

Jun. 26: SLO - SVK
Jun. 27: NED - BEL

D

Jun. 27: BUL - ROM
Jun. 27: SWE - GER

E

Jun. 27: LUX - GRE
Jun. 27: ITA - FIN


Stats Leaders Div.A (Women)

Points Per Game
 Taru TUUKKANEN
  FIN
  (190-C-77)
  Avg: 22.3
 1. Tuukkanen, FIN22.3 
 2. Eldebrink, SWE21.7 
 3. Dubljevic, MNT19.3 
 4. Marginean, ROM18.7 
 5. Petronyte, LTU18.5 
 6. Twehues, SUI18.0 
 7. Dabovic, SRB17.7 
 8. Jansone, LAT17.5 
 9. Perovanovic, MNT17.3 
 10. Doron, ISR17.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Taru TUUKKANEN
  FIN
  (190-C-77)
  Avg: 13.7
 1. Tuukkanen, FIN13.7 
 2. Teilane-T., LAT10.3 
 3. Dubljevic, MNT10.0 
 4. Petronyte, LTU9.3 
 5. Perostiyska, BUL8.7 
 6. Pavel, ROM8.7 
 7. Perovanovic, MNT8.3 
 8. Matic, SRB8.3 
 9. Vadja, HUN8.3 
 10. Fleisher, ISR8.3 
Assists Per Game
 Jelena SKEROVIC
  MNT
  (176-G-80)
  Avg: 5.5
 1. Skerovic, MNT5.5 
 2. Dubljevic, MNT5.3 
 3. Teilane-T., LAT4.8 
 4. Jalcova, SVK4.3 
 5. Radocaj, SRB4.3 
 6. Baric, SLO4.3 
 7. Karklina, LAT4.3 
 8. Bar, GER4.0 
 9. Erkic, SLO3.7 
 10. Kochubei, UKR3.7 
Steals Per Game
 Romy BAR
  GER
  (189-F-87)
  Avg: 5.3
 1. Bar, GER5.3 
 2. Hatzinikolao., GRE4.0 
 3. Erkic, SLO3.3 
 4. Skobel, POL3.3 
 5. Doron, ISR3.3 
 6. Ouvina, ESP3.0 
 7. Linkeviciene, LTU3.0 
 8. Dabovic, SRB2.7 
 9. Oblak, SLO2.7 
 10. Kubatova, SVK2.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Anastasiya VEREMEENKO
  BLR
  (194-C-87)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Veremeenko, BLR2.5 
 2. Pavel, ROM2.0 
 3. Nicholls, ESP2.0 
 4. Teilane-T., LAT1.8 
 5. Petronyte, LTU1.3 
 6. Kupcikova, SVK1.3 
 7. Meesseman, BEL1.3 
 8. Jallai, EST1.0 
 9. Piekarska, POL1.0 
 10. Zherzherunov., UKR1.0 



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


Lidija Turcinovic moves to Lattes-Montpellier - by Eurobasket News

Lidija Turcinovic (178-G-94) moves to Lattes-Montpellier for the next season. The French U18 National Team member leaves Centre Federal BB.
In 2010-2011 she started for Centre Federal BB (France-LF2, starting five) and in 19 games averaged 5.5ppg, 3.1rpg, 2FGP: 54.2%, 3PT: 30.8%, FT: 63.0%. In 2011-2012 for Centre Federal BB (France-LF2) she improved to 8.2ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 43.2%, 3PT: 33.0%, FT: 51.7%. In her top game last season she recorded 16 points. Her team however lost to Voiron 62:71 in Round 13. Lidija Turcinovic added 4 assists and 3 rebounds to her points.
In 2010 she was a member of the French U16 National Team -10. At the European Championships U16 for Women in Greece Lidija won Bronze together with Fance. She averaged 5.7ppg, 5.7rpg, 1.0apg, 2.1spg, FGP: 30.6%, 3PT: 25.8%, FT: 62.5%. Last year she was a member of the French U18 National Team.


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


An interview ith Kostas Keramidas, the new boss of Solna. - by Chris Mammides

Eurobasket: Coach Kostas Keramidas , firstly let me congratulate you for your transfer in the Swedish league and Solna Vikings after a great season with Asteras Exarheion. How do you feel about this new market for you?
Kostas Keramidas : Thanks for the wishes, I want to say that I have stress, productive stress and of course anxiety for the new to come.. I know that the conditions of the team over there are very good and as I travel over there and stayed for nearly a week with Aris Likogiannis who will be the Head Coach of the mens team of Solna Vikings, I realized that the degree of professionalism is really very good, I trained the girls of Solna Vikings 2-3 times and I also know that they are eager to play and succeed.

Eurobasket: Coach, this is your first season abroad, what do you think that you will find over there?
Kostas Keramidas :Listen as I told you I have been with Likogiannis for a week and trained the girls, I know that the basketball life in Sweden and especially in my team, Solna Vikings is very focused to the sport is a 100% professional and Solna Vikings can only be compared to the best teams in the Greek league. The team has quality and the level of the Swedish girls whom
I trained while I was in Solna Vikings is a bit better than the level of the Greek girls in Greece.

Eurobasket:Who will be your head coach in Solna Vikings?
Kostas Keramidas :I told to the management of the team the specification of what I consider good assistant and I expect that they will find for me a nice local Coach to assist me in the team. I do not know yet who will be my assistant Coach.

Eurobasket:Have you asked any of your colleagues, i.e Coach Flevarakis about the basketball culture of the country? And the possible peculiarities you may find in front of you?
Kostas Keramidas :No, I havent talked to Kostas yet but Im planning to do it as he have worked many years in the Swedish league and he is very well known in Sweden being the Head Coach of the National team of Sweden. I have been invited while I was with Likogiannis by the Greek community of Solna Vikings which is about 2.000 people, and I have realized that the people in Solna Vikings are much focused and consider very high the basketball. They know a lot of things for the Swedish basketball and of the Greek basketball and they are really very into it. By the way as I was the Head Coach of the Greek U21 team I had the chance to visit and play many times against the Swedish NT so I kind of know some basics and somehow the Basketball culture of the country, especially in the womens competition.

Eurobasket:So, do you think that there are big differences between the Greek and the Swedish league?
Kostas Keramidas :Ten years ago the Greek womens basketball league was much better and much stronger that the Swedish league, the last years though the Swedish league became more competitive, with many great foreign coaches and very good bosman and American players. There are at least four teams (Solna Vikings included) that they are equivalent with the Greek all mighty team of Athinaikos. So, yes the level is getting better and better in Sweden Lets not forget the great unexpected victory of the Swedish NT against the Spanish one which is a kind of a sign for the level of the local basketball.

Eurobasket:What is your mission as a coach of Solna Vikings and what are really your expectations?
Kostas Keramidas :is too early to talk about targets but a feasible one is to play good basketball, to be able to enter into the play-offs and then and on with solid basketball and god transfer to reach as far as we can. I know that Telge is a great team with great foreigners and local players and that they play together as a team for some years now so its consider untouchable but we will do our best..



Eurobasket: Thank you Coach

Kostas Keramidas : Thank you too who gave me the chance to express my thoughts through your site..



Eurobasket:Are you going to get some Greek girls in Sweden with you? Players that you know that they can play in the specific league
Kostas Keramidas :Listen, in Sweden there is no restriction of Bosman players so yes I can bring Greek girls in the team but they need to be professionals and I mean they need to be dedicated on what they will do and be 100% focused, otherwise I will not do that.. You know the League in Sweden is professional so I cant bring over a semi-pro athlete..

Eurobasket:Lets go to the Greek NT, what is your opinion for the team having in mind that there were many expectations in the team and right after three weeks the team is only at the tale of the table since they lost two consecutive games and the one which was really a big disappointment took place in Athens against the Italian NT? Whats going wrong?
Our National team has three crucial players off the battle as Kaltsidou, Maltsi and Kostaki are players who are really very important not only for the Greek NT but for every other European team, they are all three great players but the Greek NT doesnt have them. Against Italy we had big stress due to the previous negative result against Latvia plus the fact that the Italians travels in Athens with no stress at all. Furthermore, the Italian team is rejuvenated as there are many new faces and new players. I strongly believe that nothing is lost yet. We can win all three remaining games and qualify in the next round, the key game will the second game against the Italians in their home court where we need to get the victory and tie our in between games..

Eurobasket:Would you liked to return to the Greek NT, either as a Coach or as a member of the NTs team?
Kostas Keramidas :Yes!! Of course, it will be my honor as any other coachs honor to be called by his countrys NT.

Eurobasket:During the last year we can see a big wave of Greek head coaches leaving their country to go and work abroad. What do you think is the main reason?
Kostas Keramidas :Listen, the main reason like 80% of the times the reason is totally financial and the remaining 20% is the lack of organization that the Greek teams have, or actually do not have, is the small things that make a Head Coach happy in his/her team organization wise. My decision though is a bit different as my mission was to work abroad since I will move in any case in a couple of years since my wife is a diplomat and soon will be transfer out of the country, so we will reallocate In any case as a family in the next few years or so..

What are your personal targets in the years to come.?
Kostas Keramidas :Well, I strongly believe that my experience from the Swedish league will assist me to further develop my career moves in other European leagues. Basketball is my profession and I want to develop it as much as i can.

Eurobasket:Lets go to the chapter Asteras Exarheion. Tell me your opinion?
Kostas Keramidas :With Asteras Exarheon and with the Mazarakis Family who owns the team I have very good relations. I can easily say that Im sentimentally attached to the team. I have worked many years in the team and I will never forget our European tour in the Top8 of Ronchetti Cup few years ago. The team is marvelous and the culture is so different than all the other teams I have worked. There is no stress in winning the basketball is a sport and everybody loves it as a sport far and away from hooliganism. The Asteras fans are the most focused fans I ever saw; they are following their team in all the edges of the country and abroad. Im so touched even today as they are calling me to persuade me to stay in the team, Asteras fans are honestly gentlemen with all the meaning of the word, they never fight with anybody and they are always warm and clapping for their opponents too , lose or win. Im so sad that I have to leave the team, but I wish them all the best and I want to say a very big thank you to Mazarakis family and the team for all they have given me and of course I tried my best to give them back.. Something else also that you need to know is the fact that most of the players in A1 either coming from Asteras or they have spent at least a season there and they never said a bad word for the team..

Eurobasket:Something to end this interview please tell me do you have a message to give to the Solna Vikings fans who reads this interview?
Kostas Keramidas :Yes I want to assure them that I will give the 101% of my self to accomplish their wishes to see their team to the highest level. I wish them at the end to celebrate all together the trophy.


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


THE ISRAELI CHAMPION AND THE CUP HOLDER SIGNED NOA GANOR ! - by Gil Goshen



M. Ashdod, the Israeli Champion and the cup holder 2012-13
signed today The Israeli National Guard Noa Ganor.
Noa is a starter of the Israeli National team in 2012-13 campaign.
Four teams wanted to have this young player who prefered to play for Ashdod.

2010-2011: A.S. Ramat Hasharon Electra (D1): 24 games: 6.4ppg, 2.0rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 46.9%, 3PT: 27.1%, FT: 56.3%
2011-2012: A.S. Ramat Hasharon Electra (D1): 4 games: 1.3ppg; in Dec.'11 moved to Elitzur Netanya (D1, starting five): 15 games: 7.3ppg, 3.8rpg, 2.2apg, FGP: 45.3%, 3PT: 27.3%, FT: 82.4%.
---------


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


Storms Submerge Mennonites in KBF - by Eurobasket News

Storms on Saturday had no mercy for Mennonites as they crashed them 8130 in a Kenya Basketball Premier League match in the womens category at the Nyayo Gymnasium.
Mennonites started with a matched up performance as they held the eventual winners to a 12-10 first quarter performance.
But then Mennonites fizzled in form as they were submerged in the second quarter losing 22- 6 as the half time score line stood at 34-16.
The 3rd quarter was a nightmare for Mennonites displaying one of the most dismal performances since the onset of the league in April, getting only 2 points against 24 points for the Storms. In the last quarter, Storms maintained their consistency managing 23 points while Mennonites tried to save face with 12 points ensuring a win for the former Sprite sponsored team.
Susan Akinyi and Mercy Wanyama led the Mennonites annihilation as they managed 15 and 16 points respectively for Storms. Akinyi was also the top rebound taker in the match securing 9 rebounds.
Vivian Akinyi gave Mennonites 11 points (one 3 pointer shot) followed by Belinda Akinyi who scored 8 points. Belinda also secured 8 rebounds for her side but the side blocked no shot in the whole match.

In another women's premier league match played on Saturday, Strathmore University beat Western Delights 51- 46 in a match that was played in Kakamega at the Kakamega Police Cant

KENYA BASKETBALL FEDERATION SATO RESULTS ON 23RD JUNE

KAKAMEGA
WESTERN DELIGHT 13/46 VS STRATH 28/51
04/09/22/11 15/13/12/11
11 pts Nancy atieno 11 pts Joyce Wabwire
13 pts Cynthia irankunda 12 pts Dennis Apondi

MEN
M.M.U.S.T 28/48 VS STRATHMORE
13/15/16/04 17/22/10/15
15 pts Alex Lugasi 15 pts Cliffton Odhiambo
09 pts Edward Baku 14 pts Robert Otieno

NYAYO
A.N.U. 26/51 VS EMYBA 20/77
14/12/09/16 09/11/21/36
22 pts Kamau Dentine 31 pts Collins Ochillo
11 pts Brian Jorat
UMOJA 25/53 VS K.A.A. 14/35
09/16/16/12 08/06/09/12
17 pts Erick Mutoro 09 pts Franklyn Delano
10 pts Kevin Sunguti

K.U. PIRATES 18/58 VS K.C.A. U. 36/66
11/07/20/20 11/25/12/18
12 pts Collins Wekesa 25 pts Antonio Bwire
12 pts Gilbert Obiero 12 pts Victor Okello

STORMS 33/81 VS MENNONITES 16/30
12/21/24/24 10/06/02/12
18 pts Susan Akinyi 10 pts Belinda Akinyi
12 pts Sally Bosire

COOPBANK 31/55 VS TERROR 22/63
16/15/09/15 08/14/21/19
12 pts Titus Musembi 17 pts Bill Oketch
12 pts Robert Mugabe 11 pts Brian Obimbo
Courtesy of: http://basket-in-africa.blogspot.ch/


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


Amanda Stowe joins Musel Pikes - by Eurobasket News

Amanda Stowe (186-F/C-79, college: Wisc.-Green Bay) will continue her career in Musel Pikes. The centre signed a deal with the team. She will fill in the second import spot on the roster. The first one is filled in with Christine Fisher (183-F/C-83). Amanda Stowe spent the last four seasons with Contern. She averaged 22.6 points, 13.7 boards, 1.7 assists and 1.5 steals per game last season. Eurobasket.com named Amanda Stowe into All-Luxembourg League 2nd Team. Amanda Stowe was trumped All-Luxembourg League Centre of the Year in 2007 and 2010. Previously the centre had stints Ros Casares Letzebuerg, 08 Stockholm, Residence, Flying Foxes and Esgueira. Amanda Stowe also played for Musel Pikes back in 2007/08 season.


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


Olympic Qualifying Tournament: Canada thrash Mali - by Eurobasket News

Canada - Mali 89:23

Canada recorded the first win at the Olympic Qualifying tournament. They thumped Mali in Ankara tonight. Courtnay Pilypaitis (184-G-88, college: Vermont) stepped up with 15 points, 10 assists and 6 rebounds to lead the winners.
The North American team dominated from start to finish. Canada built a 22:6 lead after the starting quarter. They stretched the margin by 20 points in the second quarter. Canada established a 46:10 halftime lead. Mali struggled both defensively and offensively and faced a massive 51-point deficit before the final quarter. Canada did not look back in the final quarter marching to a cruising win at the end. Kimberley Smith (187-F-84, college: Utah) provided 11 points, while Miranda Ayim (191-F/C-88, college: Pepperdine) added 10 points for the winners. Nassira Traore (185-F/C-91) answered with 7 points for Mali. Fanta Guindo (168-F/G-94) had 6 points in the loss.

Canada: Courtnay Pilypaitis 15+10 assists, Kimberley Smith 11, Miranda Ayim 10
Mali: Nassira Traore 7, Fanta Guindo 6


*****************************************************
  MOZAMBIQUE   


Olympic Qualifying Tournament: Croatia wins the opener in Ankara - by Eurobasket News

Croatia-Mozambique 84:62

Croatia wins the opener in Ankara at the Olympic Qualifying Tournament. The European team got off with an easy win over Mozambique 84:62 in Group C.
Croatia easily started the game with 27:12 and never looked behind after. They added 15-13 in the second frame to take 42:25 lead at the halftime. Mozambique came back to the court in a better shape and responded with 20-15 in the third period. The team from Africa trailed 12 points after thirty minutes, but could not come closer. Croatia added 27-17 in the last stanza to seal the victory.
Ana Lelas (183-G/F-83) top-scored for the winners with 20 points and Sandra Mandir (177-G-77) netted 16. Jelena Ivezic (182-F/G-84) delivered 14, while Emanuela Salopek (179-G-87) notched 9. Clarisse Machanguana (194-C-73, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: ODU) responded with 23 points and 13 rebounds in the losing effort. Anabela Cossa (171-G-86) followed her with 11 and Ana Flavia Joao DE AZINHEIRA had 10.

Croatia: Ana Lelas 20, Sandra Mandir 16, Jelena Ivezic 14, Emanuela Salopek 9
Mozambique: Clarisse Machanguana 23+13 rebs, Anabela Cossa 11, Ana Flavia Joao DE AZINHEIRA 10


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


Olympic Qualifying Tournament: Czech Republic roll over New Zealand in Day 1 - by Eurobasket News

Czech Republic-New Zealand 70:51

Czech Republic roll over New Zealand in Day 1 of the Olympic Qualifying Tournament. The European side celebrated a 70:51 win in Ankara.
Czech Republic was the favorite of the game and proved their ambitions from the very beginning. They started the game with 20-6 and did not allow the opponent to respond in the game. The European team added 24-19 in the second quarter and had 19-point lead at the halftime. New Zealand started to play better in the second half and managed to tie both quarters. Both teams nailed 10 points in the third period and then exchanged 16 points in the last stanza.
Eva Viteckova (190-F-82) top-scored for the winners with 22 points and Petra Kulichova (198-C-84) collected 13 points and 13 rebounds. Ilona Burgrova (196-C-84, college: S.Carolina) posted 12, while Katerina Elhotova (180-SG-89) added 10. Jillian Harmon (185-F-87, college: Stanford) ended up with 9 points in the losing effort, whilst Natalie Taylor (182-F-84, college: SE Missouri St.) netted 7.

Czech Republic: Eva Viteckova 22, Petra Kulichova 13+13 rebs, Ilona Burgrova 12, Katerina Elhotova 10
New Zealand: Jillian Harmon 9, Natalie Taylor 7


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

Standings - Women

Standings
Group A
1. Angola0-0
2. Chile0-0
3. USA0-0
Group B
1. Australia0-0
2. Brazil0-0
3. U.Kingdom0-0
4. Russia0-0
Group Qualification Gr.A
1. Turkey1-0
2. Japan0-0
3. P.Rico0-1
Group Qualification Gr.B
1. Czech Rep.1-0
2. Argentina0-0
3. N.Zealand0-1
Group Qualification Gr.C
1. Croatia1-0
2. S.Korea0-0
3. Mozambique.0-1
Group Qualification Gr.D
1. Canada1-0
2. France0-0
3. Mali0-1

Additional Qualifying Round: Round 1

Qual. A

Jun. 25: PUR - TUR 53-65

Qual. B

Jun. 25: CZE - NZL 70-51

Qual. C

Jun. 25: CRO - MOZ 84-62

Qual. D

Jun. 25: MLI - CAN 23-89

Additional Qualifying Round: Round 2

Qual. A

Jun. 26: TUR - JPN

Qual. B

Jun. 26: NZL - ARG

Qual. C

Jun. 26: MOZ - KOR

Qual. D

Jun. 26: CAN - FRA


Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Clarisse MACHANGUANA
  MOZ
  (194-C-73)
  Avg: 23
 1. Machanguana, MOZ23.0 
 2. Viteckova, CZE22.0 
 3. Sepulveda, PUR20.0 
 4. Lelas, CRO20.0 
 5. Mandir, CRO16.0 
 6. Cortijo, PUR15.0 
 7. Pilypaitis, CAN15.0 
 8. Ivezic, CRO14.0 
 9. Kulichova, CZE13.0 
 10. Hollingswort., TUR13.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Petra KULICHOVA
  CZE
  (198-C-84)
  Avg: 13
 1. Kulichova, CZE13.0 
 2. Machanguana, MOZ13.0 
 3. Horakova, CZE9.0 
 4. Salopek, CRO9.0 
 5. Burgrova, CZE9.0 
 6. Hollingswort., TUR9.0 
 7. Caglar, TUR8.0 
 8. Smith, CAN8.0 
 9. Tatham, CAN8.0 
 10. Yilmaz, TUR7.0 
Assists Per Game
 Courtnay PILYPAITIS
  CAN
  (184-G-88)
  Avg: 10
 1. Pilypaitis, CAN10.0 
 2. Jelavic, CRO9.0 
 3. Thorburn, CAN5.0 
 4. Horakova, CZE4.0 
 5. Caglar, TUR4.0 
 6. Mandir, CRO4.0 
 7. Tuncluer, TUR3.0 
 8. Burgrova, CZE3.0 
 9. Cocks, NZL3.0 
 10. Yilmaz, TUR3.0 
Steals Per Game
 Ana LELAS
  CRO
  (183-G/F-83)
  Avg: 4
 1. Lelas, CRO4.0 
 2. Thorburn, CAN3.0 
 3. Edmondson, NZL3.0 
 4. Ayim, CAN3.0 
 5. Ivegin, TUR2.0 
 6. Ortiz, PUR2.0 
 7. Horakova, CZE2.0 
 8. Viteckova, CZE2.0 
 9. Ivezic, CRO2.0 
 10. Elhotova, CZE2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Petra KULICHOVA
  CZE
  (198-C-84)
  Avg: 3
 1. Kulichova, CZE3.0 
 2. Phillips, CAN2.0 
 3. Ivankovic, CRO2.0 
 4. Horasan, TUR1.0 
 5. Tatham, CAN1.0 
 6. Vrsaljko, CRO1.0 
 7. Achonwa, CAN1.0 
 8. Ayim, CAN1.0 
 9. Machanguana, MOZ1.0 
 10. Kartaltepe Y., TUR0.0 


Olympic Qualifying Tournament. Results and Stats from Day 1 in Ankara - by Eurobasket News

Group Qual. A
Puerto Rico - Turkey 53-65
Turkey opened their Olympic Qualifying Tournament campaign with victory. They defeated Puerto Rico in Ankara. Tugba Palazoglu (171-G-80) and Quanitra Hollingsworth (196-C-88, college: VCU) came up with 13 points each to lead the winners. Turkey stormed into the game. The hosts outgunned Puerto Rico 24:12 in the first quarter. Turkey maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. The teams combined for just 21 points in the second term as Turkey posted a 35:22 halftime lead. Puerto Rico worked hard to cut the deficit at 11-point mark with one quarter remaining. But Turkey did not allow the Latin American team too close in the fourth quarter and rallied to the victory at the end. Bahar Caglar produced 11 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. Carla Cortijo answered with 15 points for Puerto Rico. Jazmine Sepulveda (186-G-85, college: S.Florida) topscored with 20 points in the loss.

Group Qual. B
Czech Republic - New Zealand 70-51
Czech Republic roll over New Zealand in Day 1 of the Olympic Qualifying Tournament. The European side celebrated a 70:51 win in Ankara. Czech Republic was the favorite of the game and proved their ambitions from the very beginning. They started the game with 20-6 and did not allow the opponent to respond in the game. The European team added 24-19 in the second quarter and had 19-point lead at the halftime. New Zealand started to play better in the second half and managed to tie both quarters. Both teams nailed 10 points in the third period and then exchanged 16 points in the last stanza. Eva Viteckova (190-F-82) top-scored for the winners with 22 points and Petra Kulichova (198-C-84) collected 13 points and 13 rebounds. Ilona Burgrova posted 12, while Katerina Elhotova added 10. Jillian Harmon (185-F-87, college: Stanford) ended up with 9 points in the losing effort, whilst Natalie Taylor netted 7.

Group Qual. C
Croatia - Mozambique 84-62
Croatia wins the opener in Ankara at the Olympic Qualifying Tournament. The European team got off with an easy win over Mozambique 84:62 in Group C. Croatia easily started the game with 27:12 and never looked behind after. They added 15-13 in the second frame to take 42:25 lead at the halftime. Mozambique came back to the court in a better shape and responded with 20-15 in the third period. The team from Africa trailed 12 points after thirty minutes, but could not come closer. Croatia added 27-17 in the last stanza to seal the victory. Ana Lelas (183-G/F-83) top-scored for the winners with 20 points and Sandra Mandir (177-G-77) netted 16. Jelena Ivezic delivered 14, while Emanuela Salopek notched 9. Clarisse Machanguana (194-C-73, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: ODU) responded with 23 points and 13 rebounds in the losing effort. Anabela Cossa followed her with 11 and Ana Azinheira (156-G-77) had 10.

Group Qual. D
Mali - Canada 23-89
Canada recorded the first win at the Olympic Qualifying tournament. They thumped Mali in Ankara tonight. Courtnay Pilypaitis (184-G-88, college: Vermont) stepped up with 15 points, 10 assists and 6 rebounds to lead the winners. The North American team dominated from start to finish. Canada built a 22:6 lead after the starting quarter. They stretched the margin by 20 points in the second quarter. Canada established a 46:10 halftime lead. Mali struggled both defensively and offensively and faced a massive 51-point deficit before the final quarter. Canada did not look back in the final quarter marching to a cruising win at the end. Kimberley Smith (187-F-84, college: Utah) provided 11 points, while Miranda Ayim added 10 points for the winners. Nassira Traore (185-F/C-91) answered with 7 points for Mali. Fanta Guindo had 6 points in the loss.


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


Ivana Jalcova signs with CCC Polkowice - by Eurobasket News

Ivana Jalcova (182-G-83) signs with CCC Polkowice for 2012/2013 season. According to lovewomensbasketball.com, the Slovakian player moves to Poland.
The season 2011-2012 she started for Lotos Gdynia (Poland-PLKK) and in Polish League averaged 6.3ppg, 2.9rpg, 3.5apg, FGP: 31.1%, 3PT: 38.5%, FT: 73.9%. In Euroleague after 14 games her stats read 7.5ppg, 3.0rpg, 3.1apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 30.4%, 3PT: 37.3%, FT: 82.4%. In Feb.'12 however she moved to Famila Wuber Schio (Italy-A1) and in Italian League showed 5.4ppg, 1.6rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 58.6%, 3PT: 37.0%, FT: 50.0%, while in Euroleague Ivana had 2.3ppg, 1.7rpg.
As a member of the Slovakian National Team -09-11 she was a great player at the European Championships in Latvia -09. In 4 games her stats read 7.5ppg, 2.0rpg, 1.5apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 71.4%. At the Qualifications to European Championships 2011 -10 in 6 games she improved to 12.2ppg, 3.7rpg, 4.0apg, FGP: 44.1%, 3PT: 41.4%.


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


Olympic Qualifying Tournament: Turkey edge Puerto Rico - by Eurobasket News

Turkey - Puerto Rico 65:53

Turkey opened their Olympic Qualifying Tournament campaign with victory. They defeated Puerto Rico in Ankara. Tugba Palazoglu (171-G-80) and Quanitra Hollingsworth (196-C-88, college: VCU) came up with 13 points each to lead the winners.
Turkey stormed into the game. The hosts outgunned Puerto Rico 24:12 in the first quarter. Turkey maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. The teams combined for just 21 points in the second term as Turkey posted a 35:22 halftime lead. Puerto Rico worked hard to cut the deficit at 11-point mark with one quarter remaining. But Turkey did not allow the Latin American team too close in the fourth quarter and rallied to the victory at the end. Bahar Caglar (186-F-88) produced 11 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. Carla Cortijo (173-G-87, college: Texas) answered with 15 points for Puerto Rico. Jazmine Sepulveda (186-G-85, college: S.Florida) topscored with 20 points in the loss.

Turkey: Tugba Palazoglu 13, Quanitra Hollingsworth 13, Bahar Caglar 11
Puerto Rico: Jazmine Sepulveda 20, Carla Cortijo 15


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


Kragujevac renamed a basketball gym "Park" to "Gordana Bogojevic Kovacevic" - by Tamara Ruzic

A great gesture from a city of Kragujevac .For those who do not know, a large national park in Kragujevac- basketball gym, near the city pool and the stadium "Uncle Dacha" is a facility called "Park" , which will be named tomorrow by our celebrated Goca. The nicest part of town, a favorite resort of Kragujevac, the city has decided that in this way will thank to Gordana Bogojevic for evertyhing what she did for Serbian basketball and world wide. Hundreds of athletes who currently train will attend with a memory of a phenomenal basketball player ....
Gordana Kovacevic Bogojevic, the first basketball steps made in Kragujevac. On the initiative of her family, the city of Kragujevac decided for this nice gesture- renaming the hall. Besides family and representatives of the city of Kragujevac, Gordana's ex teammates with a Senior NT will attend a ceremony too. National team of Serbia will play on Wednesday in Kragujevac @ the Hall "Jezero" a qualifying match against Estonia.


Serbia post second win over Turkey in Loznica - by Eurobasket News

Serbia U18 - Turkey U18 67:63

Serbian and Turkish U18 National Teams played the third test game in Loznica. The hosts claimed the second win in a row. Jelena Stankovic (180-F-93) accounted for 13 points to lead Serbia.
The hosts jumped to an early lead. They accumulated a 24:17 advantage after ten minutes. Serbia stayed in control in the second quarter. They posted a 38:29 halftime advantage. Serbia did not slow down in the third term. They held Turkey to 12 points in the frame to pile up a 14-point advantage before the fourth quarter. But Turkey refused to bow as they organized a 22:12 run to narrow the gap. Serbia survived the challenge though and claimed a tough victory at the end. Natasa Kovacevic (187-F-94) produced 11 points, while Aleksandra Stanacev (167-PG-94) netted 10 points for the winners. Merve Aydin (174-PG-94) replied with 11 points for Turkey. Telin topscored with 13 points in defeat.

Serbia U18: Jelena Stankovic 13, Natasa Kovacevic 11, Aleksandra Stanacev 10
Turkey U18: Telin 13, Merve Aydin 11


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


Serbia post second win over Turkey in Loznica - by Eurobasket News

Serbia U18 - Turkey U18 67:63

Serbian and Turkish U18 National Teams played the third test game in Loznica. The hosts claimed the second win in a row. Jelena Stankovic (180-F-93) accounted for 13 points to lead Serbia.
The hosts jumped to an early lead. They accumulated a 24:17 advantage after ten minutes. Serbia stayed in control in the second quarter. They posted a 38:29 halftime advantage. Serbia did not slow down in the third term. They held Turkey to 12 points in the frame to pile up a 14-point advantage before the fourth quarter. But Turkey refused to bow as they organized a 22:12 run to narrow the gap. Serbia survived the challenge though and claimed a tough victory at the end. Natasa Kovacevic (187-F-94) produced 11 points, while Aleksandra Stanacev (167-PG-94) netted 10 points for the winners. Merve Aydin (174-PG-94) replied with 11 points for Turkey. Telin topscored with 13 points in defeat.

Serbia U18: Jelena Stankovic 13, Natasa Kovacevic 11, Aleksandra Stanacev 10
Turkey U18: Telin 13, Merve Aydin 11


Olympic Qualifying Tournament: Turkey edge Puerto Rico - by Eurobasket News

Turkey - Puerto Rico 65:53

Turkey opened their Olympic Qualifying Tournament campaign with victory. They defeated Puerto Rico in Ankara. Tugba Palazoglu (171-G-80) and Quanitra Hollingsworth (196-C-88, college: VCU) came up with 13 points each to lead the winners.
Turkey stormed into the game. The hosts outgunned Puerto Rico 24:12 in the first quarter. Turkey maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. The teams combined for just 21 points in the second term as Turkey posted a 35:22 halftime lead. Puerto Rico worked hard to cut the deficit at 11-point mark with one quarter remaining. But Turkey did not allow the Latin American team too close in the fourth quarter and rallied to the victory at the end. Bahar Caglar (186-F-88) produced 11 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. Carla Cortijo (173-G-87, college: Texas) answered with 15 points for Puerto Rico. Jazmine Sepulveda (186-G-85, college: S.Florida) topscored with 20 points in the loss.

Turkey: Tugba Palazoglu 13, Quanitra Hollingsworth 13, Bahar Caglar 11
Puerto Rico: Jazmine Sepulveda 20, Carla Cortijo 15