EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 6/27/2012 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

*****************************************************
  ABA   



Atlanta Aliens hire new GM/Head Coach - by Gianni Pascucci

The ABA Atlanta Aliens announced last week to have hired a new GM/Head Coach, Alan "Duck" Richards . Richards, the founder of Griffin Grasshoopers Association, has taken charge of the "new look" Atlanta Aliens and is ready to take the organization to soaring heights. Very talented and well respected in Georgia basketball, Duck's prominence is recognized from the youth leagues to the professional ranks and has coached at all levels from his nationally acclaimed AAU team, the Griffin Gasshoppers, to his very successful stint as head coach of the ABA Atlanta Experience.
He is looking to bringing his winning tradition and hard-nosed work ethic to the Atlanta Aliens brand.
"We are very pleased to have Coach Duck in charge of the Atlanta Aliens organization as we strive to be the top rated basketball team in the ABA," stated Adrian Provost , founder of Provost Real Estate Group and owner of the Atlanta Aliens. "Alan is an exceptional coach and a fantastic addition to our team. We are looking forward to a wonderful season." For more information, visit www.atlantaaliens.net


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


Angolan National Team 2012 - by Eurobasket

Angolan National Team 2012
#s#
Leonel Paulo
Paulo
Armando Costa
Costa
Joaquim Gomes
Gomes
Felizardo Ambrosio
Ambrosio
Carlos Morais
Morais
#e#5
Leonel Paulo 198-C-89 1 De Agosto Angola
Armando Costa 192-G-83 1 De Agosto Angola
Joaquim Gomes 200-C/F-80 1 De Agosto Angola
Felizardo Ambrosio 201-F-87 1 De Agosto Angola
Carlos Morais 190-G-85 Petroleos Angola
Paulo Barros 197-F-89 Petroleos Angola
Roberto Fortes 193-G-84 Petroleos Angola
Hermenegildo MBunga 206-C-85 Petroleos Angola
Paulo Santana 183-PG-84 Petroleos Angola
Eduardo Mingas 200-F-79 Interclube Angola
Milton Barros 184-G-84 Interclube Angola
Olimpio Cipriano 194-F-82 Libolo Angola
Joaquim Valdelicio 208-C-90 E.Utah JC USA

Jose Carlos Guimaraes Head Coach Interclube Angola



Angolan U23 National Team 2012 - by Eurobasket

Starting Five
#s#
Edson Ndoniema
Ndoniema
Roberto Fortes
Fortes
Islando Manuel
Manuel
Braulio Morais
Morais
#e#4
Edson Ndoniema 191-G-91 Libolo Angola
Braulio Morais 190-G-90 Petroleos Angola
Hermenegildo Santos 192-G-90 1 De Agosto Angola
Yuir Swingue
Joseney Joaquim
Wilson Manuel
Roberto Fortes 193-G-84 Petroleos Angola
Adilson Ramos 179-G-89 Interclube Angola
Abdel Gomes 203-C-89 Petroleos Angola
Islando Manuel 192-F-91 1 De Agosto Angola
Paulo Barros 197-F-89 Petroleos Angola
Afonso Mutau

Manuel da Silva Head Coach Petroleos Angola



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


Cheyne Gadson will join Quimsa - by Eurobasket News

Quimsa have reportedly agreed on terms of contract with Cheyne Gadson (192-G-80, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Oklahoma St.). The guard is expected to sign a one-year contract with the team. Cheyne Gadson started the previous season in D-League. He played for the Idaho Stampede. The guard notched 15.8 points, 5.1 assists and 2.8 rebounds per game. In January Cheyne Gadson joined Guaros de Lara in Venezuela. His stats read 21.0 points, 4.5 boards and 2.5 assists per appearance. In May the guard moved to Puerto Rico. He signed with Atleticos de San German. Cheyne Gadson posted 11.5 points, 2.6 assists and 1.4 rebounds in BSN. Previously the guard had stints in Latvia, Venezuela, D-League, Israel, Italy, CBA, USBL, WBA and ABA.


Wuber Estudiantes land Jonathan Durley - by Eurobasket News

Wuber Estudiantes de Bahia Blanca bolstered their roster. They agreed on terms of contract with Jonathan Durley (203-F/C-88, college: Wichita St.). The centre arrives from Spain. Jonathan Durley started his pro career with Baloncesto Leon last season. The centre notched 12.0 points and 4.4 boards per game in LEB Gold. Jonathan Durley graduated from the Wichita State University in 2011. The centre posted 11.2 points, 4.9 rebounds and 1.4 assists per game in the senior season. He was NIT Champion in 2011. Jonathan Durley made it into NABC Division I All-District 16 1st Team in 2011. Jonathan Durley was also named into All-MVC 1st Team.


GECR Indalo close to Bernard Robinson - by Eurobasket News

GECR Indalo are targeting Bernard Robinson (198-F-81, college: Michigan). They are close to landing another import player after securing the services of Kaheim Seawright for the next season. Bernard Robinson spent the last season with Quimsa. He tallied 10.5 points, 4.3 boards and 1.6 assists per game in LigaA. The forward played for Minas in 2010/11 season. He participated at Brazilian League All-Star Game. Latinbasket.com named Bernard Robinson into Brazilian League All-Imports Team in 2011. Previously the forward had spells in NBA, Philippines and Dominican Republic. GECR Indalo made an offer to the player. They are expecting the answer from Bernard Robinson in the upcoming days.


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


USA U17 clinch title in Gran Canaria - by Eurobasket News

USA U17 - Australia U17 89:64

USA U17 National Team celebrated victory at the international tournament in Gran Canaria, Spain. They overcame Australian counterparts in the title game. Jahlil Okafor-Benton (6'9''-C-95) came up with 19 points and 6 boards to lead the winners. He was named the tournaments MVP after the game.
The teams stayed close throughout the opening quarter. The North American team eked out a 26:24 lead at the first break. USA stretched the gap in the second quarter. They secured a 47:38 halftime advantage. The North American side boosted the gap in the third term. They exploded with 29 points to pile up a 21-point advantage before the fourth period. USA did not look back afterwards cruising to the victory at the end. Stanley Johnson (6'5''-F-96) knocked down 15 points and grabbed 8 rebounds for the USA. Stephen Domingo (6'7''-F-95) and Kendrick Nunn (6'2''-G-95) added 10 points each in the victory. Dante Exum (6'4''-G-95) answered with 15 points for Australia. Mirko Djeric (6'4''-G-95) had 11 points in the loss.

USA U17: Jahlil Okafor-Benton 19, Stanley Johnson 15, Stephen Domingo 10, Kendrick Nunn 10
Australia U17: Dante Exum 15, Mirko Djeric 11


Australia deny Greece in second game of Farewell Series - by Eurobasket News

Australia - Greece 91:51

Australia celebrated the second straight win at the Farewell Series versus Greek B National Team. The Boomers thrashed their opponents behind 17 points from Joe Ingles (203-G/F-87, agency: Priority Sports). The teams are scheduled to meet once again on Thursday.
The Boomers stormed into the game. They piled up a 25:9 lead after ten minutes. Australia maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. The hosts posted a 45:26 halftime advantage. Australia did not loosen the grasp in the third quarter. The Boomers established a comfortable 22-point lead at the final intermission. The home team unleashed 29 points in the fourth quarter cruising to a massive win at the end. Mark Worthington (202-F-83, college: Metro St.) accounted for 15 points, while Brad Newley (201-F/G-85, agency: Beo Basket) added 13 points for the Boomers. Nikos Pappas (194-G-90, agency: FCM) answered with 10 points for Greece. Mihalis Giannakidis (192-G-88, agency: FCM) netted 8 points in the loss.

Australia: Joe Ingles 17, Mark Worthington 15, Brad Newley 13
Greece: Nikos Pappas 10, Mihalis Giannakidis 8


SBL: Wolves strike to share lead (Round 15 men's wrap) - by Eurobasket News

The battle for the minor premiership looks set to go down to the wire after the Wanneroo Wolves picked up two wins to join Lakeside Lightning in tied first position.

The Wolves put away the Willetton Tigers 87-73 on Friday, led by centre Damian Matacz (205-C-79, college: N.Michigan) (32 points, 14 rebound) and Greg hire (25 points, 22 rebounds).

Wanneroo then went on to smash the Giants 109-68, stars of the match again Damian Matacz with 29 points and Greg Hire with 15 points and 20 rebounds.

Top of the ladder Lakeside Lightning faced rivals Cockburn Cougars on Friday and survived a comeback in the third quarter to claim a 84-83 victory.

Despite an incredible game from Cougars Jeremiah Wilson (203-F-87, college: Tarleton St.) (25 points) the Lightning were led to victory by Ben Beran (24 points) and Brad Jackson with 24 points.

The Cougars bounced back to take down seventh place Tigers 102-82 on Saturday night on the back of 28 points from Gavin Field (200-G-89) and 23 points from Jeremiah Wilson.

Mandurah Magic had a blow to their top four dreams, going down to 11th place Kalamunda Eastern Suns 104-96, the Magic in inconsistent form having lost three of their last five games.

Lee Roberts led from the front for the Eastern Suns with 21 points and 19 rebounds while Magics import Taylor Mullenax stood out with 33 points of his own.

A last quarter comeback saw the East Perth Eagles sneak over the line to defeat the bottom of the ladder Rockingham Flames 102-101.

Former Wildcats development player Jarrod Balcombe (198-F/G-90) stood out for the Eagles with 33 points while Tom Jervis had 30 points.

The Eagles then went on to take down the Stirling Senators 107-92 on Saturday.

Perth Redbacks split their weekend to halt their four game losing streak.

The Redbacks went down to the eighth place Perry Lakes Hawks 107-100 on Friday night but bounced back to take down the ninth place Giants on Sunday.

Perth took down the Giants 97-87, import Blake Bender had 26 points and guard Joel Wagner finished with 22 points.

Geraldton Buccaneers took down the South West Slammers 101-79 with Daniel Thomas (27 points) and Aaron Ralph (21 points) leading the way.

Article by Hannah Coleman
Courtesy of: http://www.sbl.asn.au/


*****************************************************
  BALTIC LEAGUE   


Marko Popovic and Vytenis Lipkevicius stay with Lithuanian champions - by Eurobasket News

Marko Popovic (185-G-82, agency: Alti Sport, college: S.Idaho JC) and Vytenis Lipkevicius (197-F-89) stay with Lithuanian champions for another year. According to lithuaniabasketball.com, the players will stay in the roster.
Last year Marko Popovic was back to Zalgiris after three years with Unics Kazan. The Croatian point guard penned a 1+1 year deal with Lithuanian giant. Popovic had 13.8 ppg, 2.6 rpg and 5.8 apg for 11 games in EuroCup with Unics. In PBL, he averaged 11.6 points and 3.9 assists for 29 games and Unics reached Semifinals. In VTB United League, Popovic shined with 17.8 ppg, 2.3 rpg and 4.9 apg. In 2011-2012 for B.C. Zalgiris Kaunas (Lithuania-LKL) he averaged 10.3ppg, 1.7rpg, Assists-5 (3.8apg), FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 34.9%, FT-2 (89.5%) in Lithuanian league.
Vytenis Lipkevicius startd the season 2011-2012 for KK Baltai Kaunas (LKL), but then moved to B.C. Zalgiris Kaunas (LKL, starting five). In Euroleague he averaged 0.8ppg, 1.3rpg, while in VTB League showed 2.4ppg, 2.5rpg. In Baltic League his stats read 5.5ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.3spg, while in Lithuanian League he had 4.1ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.6apg, 1.0spg.


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

Standings - Paulista, Carioca, Minas G. leagues

Paulista Standings
 1. Rio Claro 14-4 
 2. America 13-4 
 3. Metodista/S.B. 13-5 
 4. Suzano 12-7 
 5. Inter Santos 11-7 
 6. Sao Caetano 11-8 
 7. Jacarei 10-8 
 8. UNIFADRA 10-8 
 9. Abdala 4-14 
 10. Americana 2-16 
 11. Taubate 0-19 

Regular Season: Round 24

Jun. 23: UNIFADRA - Americana 80-79
Jun. 24: Jacarei - Suzano 79-89
Jun. 23: America - Sao Caetano 77-73
Jun. 24: Abdala - Inter Santos 72-74
Jun. 21: Jacarei - Rio Claro 115-113 OT

Regular Season: Round 25

Jun. 27: Inter Santos - America
Jun. 27: Rio Claro - Americana
Jun. 27: Suzano - Abdala
Jun. 27: Taubate - Jacarei


Brazil fire past New Zealand in San Carlos - by Eurobasket News

Brazil - New Zealand 73:49

Brazil registered the first win at the Torneio Eletrobras in San Carlos. They held off New Zealand in the opener. Marquinhos Vieira (207-F-84) stepped up with 14 points to lead the hosts.
Brazil held the Tall Blacks to just 9 points in the opening quarter to build a 10-point lead 19:9. New Zealand struggled offensively scoring 7 points in the second quarter as Brazil stretched the lead. The hosts ensured a 33:16 halftime advantage. The Latin American team did not slow down in the second half. Brazil accumulated a 54:32 lead with one period remaining. New Zealand never recovered and had to surrender at the end. Marcelo Magalhaes (199-F/G-75, agency: Interperformances) accounted for 10 points, while Guilherme Giovannoni (202-F-80, agency: Interperformances) and Hilario Nene (207-C-82) added 9 points each for the winners. Tai Jack Webster (186-G-95) responded with 8 points for New Zealand. Casey Frank (203-F-77, college: N.Arizona) accounted for 7 points in defeat.

Brazil: Marquinhos Vieira 14, Marcelo Magalhaes 10, Guilherme Giovannoni 9, Hilario Nene 9
New Zealand: Tai Jack Webster 8, Casey Frank 7


Sao Jose dos Campos add Luiz Felipe Lemes - by Paulo Freire

The former point guard of Joinville, Luiz Felipe Lemes (193-G-80, college: BYU) is the new sign of the Sao Jose dos Campos.
The 30 years old player is a product of BYU in Utah, he is coming to the team to replace the point guard Matheus Costa (179-G-80) who will not remain with the team.
Luiz Felipe average of 9,7ppg and 2,1 apg last season on the NBB.
Another new sign of the team is the young Chandler Chaves (202-F-92) that have been playing in Araraquara in the last years. The managers also renew the contract of the young Robinho dos Santos (183-G-92).


Palmeiras gets Jordan, Peete and Tiago Lima - by Paulo Freire

The S.E. Palmeiras team that finish in the second place of the Super Cup Brazil and now is looking forward to play in the next NBB season is already working in their roster.
The managers of the team already renew the contracts of Caio Ferreira (G-91), Arthur Pecos (94), Caleb Brown (182-G-87, college: Austin Peay St.), Douglas Viegas (197-G/F-79, college: Wagner), Lucas Costa (203-C/F-80), Mudo dos Santos (194-F-77), Rodrigo Goncalves (SF-87), Gustavo Lino (216-C, college: S.Mississippi) and Marcao Vinicius (205-C-84)

The new players sign for the 2012-2013 season of the team are the guard Jordan Burger (203-F-91), center Tiago Lima (201-C/F-81) and the american guard Fred Peete (193-G-84, college: N.Mexico St.)


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


Russian deal on the table for Kaloyan Ivanov - by Maria Mitzova

Bulgarian PF Kaloyan Ivanov (205-F-86) is considering offer from Russian BC Krasnye Krylia. The deal is thought to be around 600k for the upcoming season.
Ivanov had huge season with Spanish Alicante in ACB, but the club is having financial crisis and is not even clear if it will continue to exist in the League.
Barcelona was also one of the teams, interested in Kaloyan Ivanov, but according to the player himself, that option is now not on the table.
There comes Krasnye Krylia, who can afford to pay the powerful Bulgarian the right amount of money, and will give him chance to play in EuroChallenge and VTB League.
I haven't seen the offer just yet, but I am aware there is interest from this Russian team, and my agents are looking through their initial proposal, said Ivanov, as quoted by Gong.bg.


*****************************************************
  CENTROBASKET   


Latinbasket.com All-Centrobasket Awards 2012 - by Eurobasket Center

Latinbasket.com All-Centrobasket 1st Team 2012
#s#
Jack Michael Martinez
Martinez
Walter Hodge
Hodge
David Huertas
Huertas
Oritseweyinmi Efejuku
Efejuku
Alfred Horford
Horford
#e#5

Best Player: Jack Michael Martinez (203-F/C-81) of Dominican Rep.
Best Guard: David Huertas (195-G-87) of Puerto Rico
Best Forward: Jack Michael Martinez (203-F/C-81) of Dominican Rep.
Best Center: Alfred Horford (208-F/C-86) of Dominican Rep.
Best Coach: John Calipari of Dominican Rep.

1st Team
PG: Walter Hodge (183-86) of U.S. Virgin Islands
G: David Huertas (195-87) of Puerto Rico
G: Oritseweyinmi Efejuku (196-86) of Jamaica
F/C: Jack Michael Martinez (203-81) of Dominican Rep.
F/C: Alfred Horford (208-86) of Dominican Rep.

2nd Team
PG: Jose Juan Barea (181-84) of Puerto Rico
G: Juan Coronado (196-83) of Dominican Rep.
F: Josimar Ayarza (205-87) of Panama
F/C: Samardo Samuels (206-89) of Jamaica
C: Jerome Jordan (213-86) of Jamaica

Honorable Mention
Andres Rodriguez (184-PG-81) of Puerto Rico
Ricardo Sanchez (212-C-87) of Puerto Rico
Daniel King (203-F-87) of Panama
Joel Munoz (179-PG-80) of Panama
Ernesto Oglivie (199-F-89) of Panama
Paul Stoll (178-PG-85) of Mexico
Mitchell Johnson (196-F-85) of Bahamas
Joan Luis Haiti (200-C-82) of Cuba
Phillip Jones (183-G) of U.S. Virgin Islands


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

Standings - NBL

NBL Standings
 1. Guangzhou L. 13-4 
 2. Guangzhou FM 12-5 
 3. Jiangsu 11-5 
 4. Hebei 11-6 
 5. Changan Group 9-8 
 6. Heilongjiang 8-9 
 7. Hong Kong 6-10 
 8. Sichuan 6-11 
 9. Nanjin Army 6-11 
 10. Henan Jiyuan 2-15 

Regular Season: Round 17

Jun. 26: Henan Jiyuan - Jiangsu 98-109
Jun. 26: Heilongjiang - Guangzhou FM 97-117
Jun. 26: Nanjin Army - Sichuan 82-83
Jun. 26: Changan Group - Hebei 75-82
Jun. 26: Guangzhou L. - Hong Kong 102-94 OT

Regular Season: Round 18

Jun. 29: Henan Jiyuan - Guangzhou L.
Jun. 29: Hong Kong - Guangzhou FM
Jun. 29: Nanjin Army - Jiangsu
Jun. 29: Changan Group - Heilongjiang
Jun. 29: Sichuan - Hebei


NBL Round 17 of Regular Season - by Eurobasket News

Seventh-ranked Hong Kong (6-10) made lots of trouble for first ranked Guangzhou L. (13-4) on Tuesday. Guangzhou L. managed to secure only eight-point victory 102-94. However their fans expected much easier game. The best player for the winners was XiangTao Liu who scored 34 points (!!!). Guangzhou L. maintains first place with 13-4 record. Hong Kong at the other side keeps the seventh position with ten games lost. Guangzhou L. will face bottom-ranked Henan Jiyuan (#10) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Hong Kong will play against the league's second-placed Guangzhou FM.

The best stats of 17th round was 40 points (!!!) and 15 rebounds by David Palmer of Sichuan.

Nanjin Army - Sichuan 82-83

We cannot really consider it an upset in the game between close teams when 8th ranked Nanjin Army (6-11) was edged at home by ninth ranked Sichuan (6-11) 83-82 on Tuesday. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Nanjin Army won third quarter 26-20. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Strangely Nanjin Army outrebounded Sichuan 46-31 including a 22-5 advantage in offensive rebounds. The best player for the winners was American forward David Palmer (201-82, college: S.Utah, agency: Top Notch Sports) who had a double-double by scoring 40 points (!!!) and 15 rebounds. Guard YingLiang Wang (183-91) chipped in 8 points and 5 rebounds. Forward Shengyue Sun (198-89) produced a double-double by scoring 18 points and 12 rebounds and center ShouWei Wang (208-86) added 13 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists respectively for the hosts. Four Nanjin Army players scored in double figures. Nanjin Army's coach Yuenan Ma tried various players' combinations and tested in total eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. Sichuan moved-up to eighth place, which they share with defeated Nanjin Army. Sichuan will face higher ranked Hebei (#4) in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
Top scorers:
Sichuan: P.David 40+15reb, D.ChengLong 11+2reb, C.XiaoDong 11+1reb+1ast, G.YuZhang 9+1reb+2ast, W.YingLiang 8+5reb+2ast, C.Ma 4
Nanjin Army: F.ChengLin 18+4reb+2ast, S.Shengyue 18+12reb+1ast, L.Dong 13+4reb+3ast, W.ShouWei 13+7reb+4ast, X.Jinlong 7+2reb, Z.CaiBao 6+8reb+4ast
gschID: 176099


Changan Group - Hebei 75-82

The game between closely ranked teams ended with fourth ranked Hebei's (11-6) road victory over 5th ranked Changan Group (9-8) 82-75 on Tuesday. The guests trailed by 3 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 10-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 82-75. Hebei forced 21 Changan Group turnovers. The best player for the winners was American forward Bryan Davis (206-86, college: Texas A&M, agency: N.E.T.) who had a double-double by scoring 29 points and 17 rebounds. Guard ZhiTong Yin (195-86) chipped in 24 points. Forward Jian Sun (190-88) produced 26 points and American forward Joseph Taylor (203-85, college: Wyoming) added 14 points and 13 rebounds respectively for the hosts. Changan Group's coach MingZhu Pu rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Hebei maintains fourth place with 11-6 record. Changan Group lost third consecutive game. They keep the fifth position with eight games lost. Hebei will face Sichuan (#8) in the next round. Changan Group will play against Heilongjiang and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Hebei: D.Bryan 29+17reb+2ast, Y.ZhiTong 24+2reb, Z.ZhenHu 9+3reb+1ast, S.ChunLei 9+9reb+4ast, Y.TingYu 5+2reb+1ast, W.Tong 4+2reb
Changan Group: S.Jian 26+4reb+1ast, J.Cheng 17+8reb, T.Joseph 14+13reb, R.XiaTi 9+7reb, G.Yan 7+4reb+1ast, J.JunQi 2+3reb+1ast
gschID: 176100


Heilongjiang - Guangzhou FM 97-117

Very expected game when 6th ranked Heilongjiang (8-9) was rolled over at home by second ranked Guangzhou FM (12-5) 117-97 on Tuesday. The game without a history. Guangzhou FM led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. The best player for the winners was American forward Walter Sharpe (206-86, college: UAB, agency: Two Points) who had a double-double by scoring 29 points and 12 rebounds. Guard KaiFu Yao (196-83) chipped in 16 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field). American power forward Rashaun Freeman (206-84, college: Massachusetts) produced a double-double by scoring 24 points and 10 rebounds and point guard Ming Jin (185-90) added 12 points, 7 rebounds and 8 assists respectively for the hosts. Four Guangzhou FM and five Heilongjiang players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Guangzhou FM have an impressive series of five victories in a row. They maintain second place with 12-5 record behind leader Guangzhou L. Heilongjiang at the other side keeps the sixth position with nine games lost. Guangzhou FM will face Hong Kong (#7) in the next round which should be theoretically another easy game. Heilongjiang will play against Changan Group and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Guangzhou FM: S.Walter 29+12reb+3ast, L.XueSong 18+1reb+8ast, Y.KaiFu 16+7reb+5ast, D.JunJiang 16+1reb+1ast, Y.Peng 9+3reb+1ast, Y.Liang 8+2reb+2ast
Heilongjiang: F.Rashaun 24+10reb, Y.Gang 16+7reb, L.Xu 16+2reb+1ast, J.Ming 12+7reb+8ast, Z.JunXiong 12+3reb, L.JinYang 8+2reb+2ast
gschID: 176101


Henan Jiyuan - Jiangsu 98-109

Very predictable result when third ranked Jiangsu (11-5) beat on the road bottom-ranked Henan Jiyuan (2-15) 109-98 on Tuesday. The game was mostly controlled by Jiangsu. Henan Jiyuan was better in fourth quarter 26-19. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Jiangsu dominated down low during the game scoring 72 of its points in the paint compared to Henan Jiyuan's 50 and made 16-of-21 free shots (76.2 percent) during the game. Jiangsu had a 29-17 advantage in offensive rebounds. The best player for the winners was Nigerian center Jeleel Akindele (216-83, college: Chicago St.) who had a double-double by scoring 20 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists (perfect from the field making all eight shots !!!). Guard Zhuang Ma (194-88) chipped in 25 points. Jiangsu's coach ZhiLong Zheng used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Nigerian center Kenny Adeleke (205-83, college: Hartford) produced a double-double by scoring 37 points (!!!) and 16 rebounds and power forward XiaoHu Li (203-92) added 13 points respectively for the hosts. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Jiangsu have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain third place with 11-5 record having just three points less than leader Guangzhou L. Henan Jiyuan lost fourth consecutive game. They stay at the bottom position with 15 games lost. Jiangsu will face Nanjin Army (#9) in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Henan Jiyuan will play against the league's leader Guangzhou L..
Top scorers:
Jiangsu: M.Zhuang 25+3reb+1ast, F.Xin 22+1reb+1ast, A.Jeleel 20+10reb+4ast, S.XianLing 13+1reb, P.YuLe 10+5reb+1ast, F.Hui 8+9reb+2ast
Henan Jiyuan: A.Kenny 37+16reb, H.Bin 15+1reb+1ast, L.XiaoHu 13+3reb+2ast, G.Wei 12+2reb, L.ZhenXin 7+1reb+1ast, L.Chao 7
gschID: 176097


Guangzhou L. - Hong Kong 102-94 OT

Seventh-ranked Hong Kong (6-10) made lots of trouble for first ranked Guangzhou L. (13-4) on Tuesday. Guangzhou L. managed to secure only eight-point victory 102-94. However their fans expected much easier game. The hosts started the game with a very strong first quarter 27-15. But Hong Kong won third quarter 25-18. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening, at least not yet. The game turned upside-down in the last quarter, where Hong Kong used huge pressure winning it 23-17 getting a tie at the end of regular time. They lost eventually overtime period 6-14. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Guangzhou L. made 11 blocks. The best player for the winners was the former international power forward XiangTao Liu (202-80) who scored 34 points (!!!). Senegalese center Hamady N'Diaye (213-87, college: Rutgers) chipped in a double-double by scoring 24 points, 10 rebounds and 9 blocks. American center Ty Walker (213-89, college: Wake Forest) produced a double-double by scoring 22 points, 16 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals and forward XiaoDong Wei (196-92) added 17 points and 7 rebounds respectively for the guests. Four Guangzhou L. and five Hong Kong players scored in double figures. Guangzhou L. maintains first place with 13-4 record. Hong Kong at the other side keeps the seventh position with ten games lost. Guangzhou L. will face bottom-ranked Henan Jiyuan (#10) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Hong Kong will play against the league's second-placed Guangzhou FM.
Top scorers:
Guangzhou L.: L.XiangTao 34+4reb, N.Hamady 24+10reb+2ast, C.DaWei 17+11reb+2ast, Z.ChaoLong 12+1reb+2ast, J.Lei 9+4reb, W.Jing 4+5reb+3ast
Hong Kong: W.Ty 22+16reb+5ast, W.XiaoDong 17+7reb+1ast, F.Zhou 16+4reb+1ast, Z.DongYang 13+8reb+3ast, L.MingHao 11+3reb+2ast, Y.XiaoHang 7+1reb+1ast
gschID: 176098



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


Changes in the new league - by Dr. Nasios Orinos

2012-2013 league is subject to important changes.

The league will be consisted of 8 teams and the regular season will take part in 3 rounds. During the 1st two rounds teams will battle against each other as usual, whereas the 3rd round will be based on teams' position on the board. The 1st six teams will go through the play-offs as usual with the 1st two teams on the board moving automatically to the semifinals. The team finishing at the 7th place will not take part at the playoffs, whereas the team finishing 8th will move to the 2nd division. The 4th will matchup against the 5th and the 3rd against the 6th in a best of 3 games. The winner of 4-5 will then matchup against the 1st on the board and the winner of 3-6 against the 2nd on the board. Semifinals and finals will be in a best of 5 games.

In another strange move teams have decided to play with 4 Americans, 4 Bosman and 4 Cypriot players. Considering that during last year's playoffs a few teams had dismissed their foreign players due to financial difficulties and battled with the Cypriots, we are questioning whether this will impact positively the league.

If teams are financially able to sign 8 foreign players then they should be committed to play with them until the end. Otherwise they should try to minimize the number of foreign players and sign more Cypriot players. Teams' attempt to play without foreigners at the playoffs creates great inconsistencies and problems.

Consider this a friendly advice to all teams.


Apoel lands Dante Stiggers - by Dr. Nasios Orinos

Apoel announces signing of American - Belarusian Dante Stiggers (187-PG-82, college: S.Mississippi).

Stiggers is 1.87 cm tall and plays the point guard position. He is distinguished for his explosiveness, quickness and his ability to dominate a game defensively. He is great in the open court and has a very good pull up jump shot.

He is known to us from playing in Apollon in 2010-2011 finishing the year with an average of 8 points, 3 rebounds and 4 assists. In March 2011 he moved to PAOK Thessaloniki where he was a starting five. In 6 games in the EuroCup he averaged 4 points and 2 assists, whereas in 26 games in the Greek league he averaged 5 points and 2 rebounds.


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


Lithuania edge Czech Republic in Kaunas - by Eurobasket News

Lithuania U17 - Czech Republic U17 91:89

Lithuania and Czech Republic played the final game of preparation before the upcoming U17 World Championship. Lithuania claimed a narrow victory at the end. Zydrunas Jurgutis (178-PG-95) stepped up with 21 points to lead the hosts.
Czech Republic started the game strongly. The visitors grabbed a 30:25 lead after the opening quarter. Lithuania pulled in front in the second quarter. The hosts secured a 49:45 halftime lead. They stretched the margin in the third quarter. The Baltic team established a 74:62 buffer before the fourth frame. Czech Republic denied the deficit and drew things level at 89 late in regulation. Zydrunas Jurgutis however knocked down a late jumper to seal the victory for the hosts. Edvinas Seskus (192-G/F-95) accounted for 20 points, while Ernestas Serkevicius (187-PG-95) added 17 points for the winners. Martin Peterka (200-F-95) answered with 24 points for Czech Republic. Jiri Soula (188-PG-95) provided 23 points in the loss.

Lithuania U17: Zydrunas Jurgutis 21, Edvinas Seskus 20, Ernestas Serkevicius 17
Czech Republic U17: Martin Peterka 24, Jiri Soula 23


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


News from Horsholm! - by Thomas Soltau

The Horsholm 76'ers recently announced the return of two key players from the 2011-2012 roster.

The first is point guard Jonas Bro (186-PG-87) who played around 26 minutes per game this season, and could expect this number to raise as Horsholm heads into the 2012-1 season.

The second is big-man Bojan Marinkovic (209-C-84) to a three-year-deal, which is quite unusual for a foreigner in the Danish CDL.

Marinkovic is a big talent, tall and athletic, but did not get many chances to showcase this in the last two season with the team. However signing a foreign player for this long should prove the teams intend of making the big-man a starter and a big part of the teams concept in the future.




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


Kalev/Cramo targets Gary Wilkinson - by Eurobasket News

Kalev/Cramo are seeking the market actively to bolster their roster. The reports show the Estonian champions are eying closely Gary Wilkinson (204-F/C-82, college: Utah St.). The team has actually been in talks with the player for some time now. Gary Wilkinson spent the last two seasons in Australia. The forward played for the New Zealand Breakers. Gary Wilkinson averaged 16.6 points, 5.8 rebounds and 1.2 assists per game in NBL last season. He was named All-Australian NBL Forward of the Year for the second season in a row. Gary Wilkinson was also trumped All-Australian NBL Player of the Year in 2011. The forward ended the season in Puerto Rico. Gary Wilkinson played for Vaqueros de Bayamon. He notched 15.8 points, 6.0 boards and 1.6 assists per game in BSN. Previously the player had stints in South Korea and Greece.


*****************************************************
  EUROBASKET SUMMER LEAGUE   


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

MVP - Chris Moore (188-G-86, college: Charleston So.) 61 CHARLESTON SOUTHERN (ASKER ALIENS)

FIRST TEAM:

Chris Moore, 61 CHARLESTON SOUTHER (ASKER)
Jamarr Hardy (191-G-83, college: Lenoir CC), 64 LENOIR (ASKER ALIENS)
Devon McBride (193-G/F-87, college: Kutztown), 64 KUTZTOWN (POITERS}
Robert Fields (185-G-88, college: Catawba), 61 CATAWBA (ASKER ALIENS)
Brad Byerson (201-F-85, college: Virginia Union), 68 VIRGINA UNION (POITERS)

HONORABLE MENTION:

Brandon Thomas (198-F-86, college: UNC Pembroke), 66 U.N.C. PEMBROKE (TREVISO)
Jontae Sherrod (187-G-89, agency: Interperformances, college: E.Carolina), 63 EAST CAROLINA UNIVERSITY (SOLNA)
Martin Barrett (198-F/G, college: Mount Olive), 66 TALLAHASSEE C.C. (SOLNA)
Gaither Hendrix (185-G, college: Brevard), 60 BREVARD COLLEGE (TREVISO)
Leon Frazier (192-PG-86, college: Mayville St.), 62 HUNTINGDON (TREVISO)

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

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

Honorable Mention:

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


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


Anadolu Efes signed with Birkan Batuk - by Ugur Turker

Birkan Batuk (198-F-90) joined Anadolu Efes after two years succesfull spell in Pinar Karsiyaka SK Izmir. Contact is covering next two years.Earlier of the off-season, it was claimed that Birkan Batuk was in radar of Oktay Mahmudi (agency: Beo Basket ) and so close to sign with Galatasaray Medical Park Istanbul. Nevertheless, Promising star followed Mahmudi's footstep after Turkish coach has became new head coach of Anadolu Efes. Pinar Karsiyaka SK Izmir will gain $100.000 from Batuk's buyout. Birkan who played with 10.0 ppg and 2.1 rpg last year is expected to be called up Turkish National Team for Eurobasket 2013 Qualification Tour by new coach Bogdan Tanjevic (agency: Interperformances ) as a replace of Hidayet Turkolu who asked to rest this summer.


Maccabi's Israeli Player of the Year, Lior Eliyahu's Rights Traded to Minnesota - by David Pick

The Houston Rockets traded forward Chase Budinger to the Minnesota Timberwolves for the 18th overall pick in the draft, giving Houston the 14th, 16th and 18th picks in Thursday's draft. The Rockets also included the rights to 27-year-old Israeli forward Lior Eliyahu, according to a report by Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo! Sports.

Eliyahu, last season's Israeli League Player of the Year and Eurobasket.com's All-Adriatic League Honorable Mention, was selected by the Orlando Magic with the 44th pick of the 2006 NBA Draft. He was later traded to the Rockets for cash considerations. Eliyahu will play with Minnesota in the NBA summer league.

Eliyahu's Israeli agent Yossi Gayer, who previously played host in Israel to the Timberwolves' president of basketball operations David Kahn, confirmed the information to Eurobasket, adding, "David is big believer and supporter of Israel."

Gayer also believes the Timberwolves will show his client more opportunities to showcase his talents on the NBA level. Despite Eliyahu being under contract with Maccabi for the upcoming 2012-13 season, he owns an NBA out clause in his contract. One Gayer believes isn't to be paid by the player. "Lior has a buyout option of around $500,000. When the time comes and we will need to use it, I don't think it will be an issue of who needs to pay it. It won't necessarily be Lior."

Last season, Eliyahu played with Maccabi Tel-Aviv in three competitions and averaged 11.7 points, 4 rebound and 1.6 assists in the Adriatic League, 8.6 point and 3 boards in the Euroleague and season high averages in points with 13 per game in the Israeli domestic competition.




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


Alade Aminu leaves Chalon - by Eurobasket News

Chalon-Sur-Saone will not prolong the contract of Alade Aminu (207-C/F-87, college: Georgia Tech). The centre spent the last two seasons with the team. He tallied 15.0 points, 5.0 boards, 1.5 assists and 1.5 steals per game in EuroCup Qualifying Round last season. In EuroChallenge Alade Aminu notched 12.2 points and 6.7 rebounds. Also the Nigerian player tallied 11.6 points, 6.8 rebounds and 1.1 steals per appearance. He participated at ProA All-Star Game. Previously Alade Aminu had stints in D-League and NBA.
In the meantime Chalon is trying hard to keep Bryant Smith (196-SF-77, agency: SportsTalent, college: Auburn) on the roster. The forward averaged 2.4 points per game in EuroChallenge. In ProA he notched 3.6 points and 1.5 rebounds per appearance.


Nantes bring in Williams Soliman - by Eurobasket News

Nantes announced the signing of Williams Soliman (201-F-80, agency: ACMT). The forward signed a one-year deal with the team. Williams Soliman spent the last season with Fos Ouest. He averaged 2.3 points and 2.4 boards per game before moving to Chalons-Reims. There the forward appeared in just one game and moved back to Fos Ouest. Previously Williams Soliman had stints with Rouen, Vichy, Roanne, Evreux, Nanterre. Eurobasket.com named Williams Soliman All-French ProB Defensive Player of the Year in 2004. He was trumped All-French ProB Most Improved Player of the Year in 2005. He also participated at French N1 League All-Star Game in 2003. The forward played for the French National Team in 2006/08 seasons.


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


The EWE Baskets Oldenburg Tab Chris Kramer - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

After mustering only 42 points in Wurzburg, the EWE Baskets Oldenburg might have remembered the nonstop aggressive defense and penetration to the hoop from Chris Kramer (191-G-88, college: Purdue) and made notes, because next season the American will be displaying his basketball talent for the northern Beko BBL team. Kramer is a 24 year old 191cm combo guard that hails from Larry Bird country in Indiana. Last season for the s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg, Kramer played 41 games: 11.2ppg, 4.1rpg, 2.0apg, Steals-2 (1.5spg), FGP: 55.3%, 3PT: 25.5%, FT: 73.9%. "To be one of the best defenders in such a defensive orientated team like Wurzburg is amazing. He was also their top scorer for the season with his dynamic play. I am convinced that he still has much potential and am happy that we could convince him for our program in Oldenburg", stated EWE Baskets Oldenburg head coach Sebastian Machowski.

Kramer scored in double figures 25 times with Wurzburg and had his best scoring game with 22 points in game one against ratiopharm Ulm in the semi finals of the playoffs. There is though a certain condition in his contract in which he could play in the NBA if he is chosen as he will play NBA summer league for 2 teams. "This is nothing unusual with this clause. Chris is a young player that has learned much already as a player. He has shown with Wurzburg that there is still much to be seen from his game. His defense is amazing and he was always on the floor with Wurzburg in the deciding moment", stressed EWE Baskets Oldenburg CEO Herman Schuller.

Kramer started his basketball career in 2006 with Purdue where he played until 2010. At Purdue, Kramer led the Boilermakers to the NCAA tournament all four years and was always good for making something memorable happen on the court like hitting a shot from his knees against Arizona at March Madness in 2007, or his vibrant dunk over a Penn State player sparking Purdue to their first ever Big Ten Tornament win. Just like Justin Gray did against Kramer and Wurzburg winning with a buzzer beater last season, the American took matters into his own hands not dishing the ball to Jujuan Johnson on a 2-1 break, but heading to the hoop alone and sending the 14,000 plus fans into ecstasy with a thunderous dunk. In his senior year, he played 35 games: 6.5ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.3apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 56.5%, 3PT: 27.3%, FT: 74.7% and reached the NCAA Sweet 16 in 2010. He played a total of 133 NCAA games. His defense got noticed at Purdue. "Kramer helped us in the come back in the fourth quarter in Frankfurt with his attacking the basket and making big plays, but he is a great defender, a reason why the club got him', stressed teammate Ben Jacobson. 'Kramer is my boy. He was a tough player. He played injured as a freshman. He was an incredible defender. He was tough and ferocious like a bull dog. He was responsible for a lot of the success that Purdue had which got them back on the map', stressed ex Purdue teammate and 2010 Beko BBL top scorer David Teague. In 2010-2011, he was a rookie and played for Fort Wayne Mad Ants (D-League): 41 games: 13.8ppg, 4.0rpg, 2.8apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 56.7%, 3PT: 36.7%, FT: 81.9% and in 2011: In June signed at Mets de Guaynabo (Puerto Rico-BSN): 12 games: 8.8ppg, 4.0rpg, 2.9apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 30.8%, FT: 69.8%. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been Big Ten Tournament Semifinals -07, 10, Big Ten All-Defensive Team -07, 09, 10, Big Ten Regular Season Runner-Up -08, 09, Big Ten Tournament Winner -09, Big Ten Regular Season Co-Champion -10, All-Big Ten Honorable Mention -10, Big Ten Sportsmanship Award -10, All-Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year -10, NCAA Sweet 16 -10, Reese's College All-Star Game -10, Puerto Rican BSN Semifinals -11, Eurobasket.com All-German Bundesliga Honorable Mention -12, Eurobasket.com German Bundesliga All-Newcomers Team -12, and German Bundesliga Semifinals -12


Source: EWE Baskets Oldenburg


Tobias Welzel Remains With UBC Tigers Hannover - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

PRO B team UBC Tigers Hannover announced that they will keep Tobias Welzel (183-G-90). Welzel is a 22 year old 183cm guard that will be playing his third season with Hannover. Last season, he played 33 games: 5.9ppg, 2.4rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 50.5%, 3PT: 29.5%, FT: 55.9%. "Tobias has developed well in the last two years thanks to his great attitude and hard work. Last season, he was an important part of the team. We are convinced that he will develop further and be an important part of the team", stressed UBC Hannover sport director Michael Goch. His best game last season was 19 points against the Bayer Giants Leverkusen. The German started his basketball career in 2008 with MEG Goettingen (1.Bundesliga). He has played 13 Beko BBL games and five Eurochallenge games.

Source: UBC Tigers Hannover:




Vitalis Chikoko Joins TBB Trier - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

According to www.sportando.net, TBB Trier have brought in Vitalis Chikoko (207-F/C-91). A day after hauling in German Bastian Doreth via on a loan agreement with FC Bayern Munich for this season, the team has brought in a substitute for the departed Maik Zirbes with Vitalis Chikoko (207-F/C-91). Vitalis Chikoko (207-F/C-91) is a 21 year old 207cm power forward/center from Zimbabwea, Africa. He is a talented, lanky forward/center who has a huge upside. Even stanging almost 6-10, he can spend yet time at the PF position, thanks to enormous athletic skills, versatility, and good feel for the game. After playing for the Dzivarasekwa Raiders (ZIM) last season, Chikoko moved to ASC 46 Goettingen (Germany-Regionalliga) this season playing 18 games: 14.1ppg, 10.6rpg, 2.8bpg, FGP: 60.3%, FT: 52.9%. As Sean Evans went down with an injury, BG Goettingen promoted him in February and he finished the season playing 17 games: 6.9ppg, 4.5rpg, FGP: 57.5%, 3PT-2 (50.0%), FT: 54.2%. As the season wore on and on, he became more reliable on the court and he finished the season scoring in double figures in the last 5 games with two double double and having his best game against TBB Trier with 20 points and nine rebounds.


BG Dorsten brings in Quincy Okolie - by Moritz Korff

Pro B team BG Dorsten has landed a new big man for the 2012-13 season: Quincy Okolie (203-C) will join the team and replace Blake Poole, who moved to Leitershofen/Stadtbergen.
Okolie, a native of Palm Beach, Florida, played for NAIA D2 school Northwood (Fl.) in this past season, but due to an injury appeared in only two games (3ppg).
From 2009 to 2011 he attended NCAA D2 program Eckerd and averaged 6.7 points as well as 4.3 rebounds per contest in 2010-11. Before 2009 he played football at the University of South Florida.
"We want to play faster next season, that is one of the reasons we needed to make a change on the center spot. We need a quick and athletic inside player. Quincy fits perfectly and in my opinion has tremendous potential", says Dorsten coach Torsten Schierenbeck.


Chris Alexander leaves Essen, moves to Kirchheim - by Moritz Korff

The Kirchheim Knights (2. Bundesliga Pro A) have signed Chris Alexander (186-PG-83, college: Southern) as their new backcourt leader for the 2012-13 season. The 28-year-old Lawton, Oklahoma, native comes off a two year stint at ETB Essen. In the 2011-12 season Alexander averaged 18.5 points, 4.3 boards and 3.2 rebounds a game for ETB and was named to the Eurobasket.com All-Pro A Second Team. He will be the third American on the Kirchheim roster for next season, as the Knights already agreed to terms with Cedric Brooks (185-G-80, college: Pittsburg St.) and Anthony Pettaway (203-C-87, college: Defiance).


Robert Franklin and Recklinghausen will enter the Pro B hand in hand - by Moritz Korff

No other player has dominated the 1. Regionalliga West over these past two years like Robert Franklin (195-F-81, college: N.Mexico Highlands) did. The 31-year-old earned back-to-back Eurobasket.com All-RLW Player of the Year honors and guided City Basket Recklinghausen to the RLW championship. As a result the Recklinghausen team earned promotion to the Pro B and was excited to announce that their main man determined to return for a fifth season.
"Rob is anxious to play in the Pro B. If we would not have moved up to the Pro B, we probably would not have been able to get him for another year", team manager Hans-Juergen Gayk told local newspaper Marler Zeitung. According to the article Franklin received offers from other Pro B teams and clubs from Luxembourg and Belgium.
Franklin, a 2006 graduate of NCAA D2 school New Mexico Highlands, started his overseas career at BSV Wulfen in 2007, before moving to Recklinghausen. Within four years he helped the team to climb from the 2. Regionalliga to the Pro B. In this past season, he averaged 23.1 points, 13.6 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 2.0 steals through 23 games.


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


Ernest Scott the first signing of Ilysiakos - by Giorgos Diploidis

After announcing their new coach, Dimitris Papanikolaou and sign a new contract with Giorgios Apostolidis (199-G-84, agency: FCM) Ilysiakos Athens took its first American player, Ernest Scott. Scott the two previous seasons was a member of DASH Peristeri GS Athens so he will stay in Athens but he will move to another club. Ilysiakos Athens is one of the teams which started the designing of the team early and it seems that the new squad will be ready on time.

Scott in his last season in the Greek league with DASH Peristeri had 11.6ppg, 5.7rpg, 1.3apg in 14 matches.



Australia deny Greece in second game of Farewell Series - by Eurobasket News

Australia - Greece 91:51

Australia celebrated the second straight win at the Farewell Series versus Greek B National Team. The Boomers thrashed their opponents behind 17 points from Joe Ingles (203-G/F-87, agency: Priority Sports). The teams are scheduled to meet once again on Thursday.
The Boomers stormed into the game. They piled up a 25:9 lead after ten minutes. Australia maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. The hosts posted a 45:26 halftime advantage. Australia did not loosen the grasp in the third quarter. The Boomers established a comfortable 22-point lead at the final intermission. The home team unleashed 29 points in the fourth quarter cruising to a massive win at the end. Mark Worthington (202-F-83, college: Metro St.) accounted for 15 points, while Brad Newley (201-F/G-85, agency: Beo Basket) added 13 points for the Boomers. Nikos Pappas (194-G-90, agency: FCM) answered with 10 points for Greece. Mihalis Giannakidis (192-G-88, agency: FCM) netted 8 points in the loss.

Australia: Joe Ingles 17, Mark Worthington 15, Brad Newley 13
Greece: Nikos Pappas 10, Mihalis Giannakidis 8


Greece topple Nigeria in Brazil - by Eurobasket News

Greece - Nigeria 88:76

Greek National Team victoriously opened their Torneio Electrobras international tournament in Brazil. They held off Nigeria in the opening game. Vassilis Spanoulis (193-G-82, agency: Beo Basket) knocked down 20 points to lead the Hellenes.
Greece jumped to an early lead. They established a 26:19 lead ten minutes into the game. Nigeria however denied the deficit and pulled ahead in the second quarter. The African powerhouse grabbed a 45:42 halftime lead. They maintained it throughout the third quarter. Nigeria enjoyed a 64:62 advantage with one quarter remaining. But Greece turned things around in the final period. They scored 26 points and snatched a tough win at the end. Georgios Printezis (206-F-85, agency: FCM) posted 15 points, while Nick Calathes (198-G-89, college: Florida) added 12 points for the winners. Ike Diogu (204-F/C-83, college: Arizona St.) answered with 17 points for Nigeria. Kola Alade (191-G) had 16 points in the loss.

Greece: Vassilis Spanoulis 20, Georgios Printezis 15, Nick Calathes 12
Nigeria: Ike Diogu 17, Kola Alade 16


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


Dutch U20 Roster Announced - by Fred Roggen

The Dutch Basketball Federation (NBB) today announced the Dutch Under-20 roster for the European Division B championship
in Sofia this summer.

Roster:
Bart Stolk (206-C-93)
Dexter Hope (185-PG-93, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement)
Ivan Filipan (193-G/F-92)
Jesse Markusse
Joel Brandt (195-F-92)
Kasper Averink (183-PG-93)
Koen Grimbergen (196-F/C-93)
Lars Jansen (186-G-93)
Marc Peutz (205-C-92)
Matthew Van Tongeren (198-C-93)
Mor Fall
Sam De Haas (193-G/F-92, agency: Court Side, college: St.Bonaventure)
Tomas Breel (197-F/C-92)
Diede Denous Wieten (208-C-92)

Head coach: Ferry Steenmetz
Assistent coach: Jaanus Liivak
Teammanager: Matthijs Groot


Dutch National Team Preliminary Roster Revealed - by Fred Roggen

The 41-man preliminary roster (A-1 and A-2) that will be battling it out for a place in the Dutch squad that will be competing in the Eurobasket 2013 Qualification Round is now known.
The preparations for the Qualification Round will begin 15 July. The Dutch squad plays seven exhibition games against Cyprus, Belgium, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic and the Slovak Republic.

Roster National team A-1
Kees Akerboom (200-F-83, agency: Court Side)
Sean Cunningham (188-PG-86, agency: R.H.Consultancy, college: Cal-Riverside)
Francisco Elson (212-C-76, agency: Court Side, college: California)
Dan Gadzuric (211-C-78, college: UCLA)
Henk Norel (212-F/C-87) (212-F/C-87)
Jessey Voorn (193-G-90, agency: Court Side)
Ties Theeuwkens (190-G-85, agency: Court Side)
Robin Smeulders (208-F-87, agency: Court Side, college: Portland)
Rogier Jansen (188-G-84, agency: Court Side)
Stefan Wessels (203-F-84, agency: R.H.Consultancy)
Patrick Hilliman (206-F/C-82, agency: R.H.Consultancy, college: High Point)
Worthy de Jong (194-SG-88, agency: R.H.Consultancy)
Arvin Slagter (192-G-85, agency: Court Side)
Roeland Schaftenaar (211-F/C-88, college: Oregon St.)

Head coach: Jan Willem Jansen
Assistent coach: Peter van Noord
Scout: Ferry Steenmetz

Roster National team A-2
Jeroen van der List (213-C-89, agency: Court Side, college: Indian Hills CC)
Andrew Dawson (190-F-87, agency: R.H.Consultancy)
Dimeo Van Der Horst (195-G/F-91, agency: R.H.Consultancy)
Jan van der Kooij (198-F-90, agency: Court Side)
Kenneth van Kempen (208-C-87, agency: Court Side, college: Ohio)
Berend Weijs (208-C)
Thomas Koenis (207-F/C-89, agency: Court Side)
Thomas van den Mars (208-C-90)
Kadeem Pantophlet (198-F-90)
Sam De Haas (193-G/F-92, agency: Court Side, college: St.Bonaventure)
Ralf de Pagter (200-F-89, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement)
Max Van Schaik (208-F-91, agency: Court Side)
Stefan Mladenovic (190-G-90, agency: Court Side)
Kevin van Wijk (204-F-89)
Mark-Peter Hof (199-F-90, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement)
Valentijn Lietmeijer (191-G-91, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement)
Gerald Robinson (203-F-84, agency: Court Side, college: Tenn-Martin)
Kenrick Zondervan (206-F/C-85, agency: Court Side, college: Cent.Florida)
Joey van Zegeren (208-F-90)
Sjors Poels (209-C-86, agency: R.H.Consultancy)
Mark Ridderhof (192-G-89)
Leon Williams (183-PG-91, agency: R.H.Consultancy)
Mitchel Kouwijzer (190-G-87, agency: Court Side)
Craig Osaikhwuwuomwam (211-F-90) C.
Joost Padberg (202-F/C-91)
Ewoud Kloos (185-G/F-89)
Mohammed Kherrazi (200-F-90, agency: R.H.Consultancy)

Coach: Weird Goedee



*****************************************************
  IBA   


Soldiers win IBA title - by Gianni Pascucci

The top seeded Kankakee County Soldiers knocked off the third-seeded Albany Legends 150-116, the past weekend at the Genesis Convention Center, in Gary, Indiana, thus becoming Champions of the Independent Basketball Associations spring basketball season.
The Soldiers claimed their second Championship of the year, as they were also the champions of the IBA winter season. Albany was looking for their second championship in the last three years this weekend.
The Soldiers were led by Stan Chismark (6'5''-F-84, college: Olivet Nazarene) 's 34 points, while Ryan Edwards (6'5''-F-83, college: Missouri Baptist) netted 33 points while grabbing 10 rebounds in the game. Kankakee closes out their spring season with a stellar 15-3 record.
For Albany, Lloyd Johnson (5'11''-G-85) once again led with 31 points, while Joshua Jones (6'5''-G/F-88, college: Husson) chipped in with 19. Three other Legends would score in double figures in the game. Ernest-Joseph Gallup (6'4''-G-81, college: Co.Carolina) scored 16, while College of Saint Rose alums Brian Hanuschak (6'7''-F) and Zach Bye (6'4''-G/F, college: St.Rose, NY) had 13 and 10 points respectively.
The Albany Legends had defeated in semifinal the Kenosha Ballers 136-134, while the Soldiers had prevailed over the Gary Splash 123-113.


Coffino to Return as Legends Coach in 2013 - by Gianni Pascucci

The Albany Legends announce that John Coffino has agreed to a one year contract, to return as the Head Coach of the Albany Legends in 2013. Coffino joined the Legends organization in mid April, and led the Legends to an apperance in the IBA Championship game in his first season.
Coffino came to the Legends from the Qatar Sports Club, State of Qatar, located in the Middle East where he was head coach. Prior to coaching Qatar he was a head coach for the NBA Developmental Leagues Albuquerque Thunderbirds from 2008 until the teams dismantling in 2010. He also held numerous assistant coaching positions in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC), holding the position at Iona College, Niagara University, and St. Peters College.
Coffino, is a graduate of St. Peters College in Jersey City, New Jersey, and began his coaching career at Westchester Community College (199297) in Valhalla, New York. While at Westchester he guided the Vikings to the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) DI Tourney in 1993. Coffino currently makes his home in the Los Angeles, California area.


West team wins IBA all-Star Game - by Gianni Pascucci

Chris Ayer (6'10''-C-83, college: Loyola Mary) of the L.A. Lightning racked up 22 points, 17 rebounds and 7 blocked shots on Sunday night, leading the West Team to an 84-76 overtime win over the East Team in the inaugural Independent Basketball Association All-Star Game at Gary, Indiana.
Billy Knight (6'5''-G-79, college: UCLA) tallied 15 of his 17 points in the second half and OT. Knight also had eight rebounds and nine assists for the West, which trailed by 10 (32-22) midway through the first half. Ayer posted 16 points, nine boards and five blocks in the first half. He ended the opening half with a lefty slam, an assist on a Knight layup and a follow shot that put the West ahead 47-46 at intermission. Eight of Ayers 17 rebounds came at the offensive end. Knight tied the game at 74 on a 3-pointer from the right side with 29.5 seconds to play. The West won the OT session 8-0 with Knight scoring the first four on two free throws and a 10-foot baseline jumper. Jerry Dupree (6'7''-F-81, college: USC) had 13 points for West Team and all six field goals were dunks. Dupree added three rebounds, three steals and two assists while teammate Tarron Williams (6'7''-F-76, college: CS San Bernar.) had four points and two boards.
Christopher Wesby (6'8''-F-83, college: Indiana-S.Bend) scored 11 points in the All-Star game while Gary Splash teammate Marcus Jackson (6'5''-G/F-81, college: Benedictine, KS) notched 14, including a last second shot to force overtime.
The West Stars were coached by L.A. head coach Ron Quarterman .


*****************************************************
  ICELAND   


Fjolnir tab Chris Matthews and Morgan Grim - by Eurobasket News

Fjolnir strengthened their roster. They added two import players. They are Chris Matthews (193-G-85, college: St.Bonaventure) and Morgan Grim (203-F-88).
Chris Matthews started the previous season in D-League. The guard played for the Reno Bighorns. He averaged 4.2 points, 1.2 assists and 1.0 board per game. Later Chris Matthews moved to Mexico to join Durazneros de Paquime. The guard notched 27 points, 8 assists and 6 boards in Chihuahua League. Soon the guard joined Scranton Steamers in PBL. He averaged 5.3 points, 1.8 assists and 1.5 boards per appearance. Chris Matthews finished the season with the Washington Madness in EBA. His stats read 30.5 points, 6.0 boards and 5.5 assists. He was named All-EBA Co-Player of the Year.
Morgan Grim will start his pro career in Iceland. The forward graduated from Utah State University this spring. He averaged 8.6 points, 5.9 boards and 1.0 assist per game in his senior season.


*****************************************************
  INDONESIA   


SEABA U18: Indonesia defeat Malaysia in opener - by Eurobasket News

Indonesia U18 - Malaysia U18 81:73

Indonesian U18 National Team recorded the first win at the SEABA U18 Championship. They overcame Malaysian counterparts in Singapore yesterday. Andre Andriano stepped up with 17 points and 7 rebounds to lead the winners.
Indonesia jumped to an early lead but Malaysia denied the deficit by the end of the opening quarter. The scoreboard read 15:15 at the end of the first frame. Indonesia pulled in front once again in the second quarter. They piled up a 41:34 halftime lead. Indonesia maintained the lead throughout the third quarter. They secured a 57:50 buffer heading into the fourth term. Indonesia wisely kept their opponents at distance throughout the final quarter sealing victory at the end. Jan Panagan accounted for 16 points and 10 rebounds, while Oei Steven had 14 points in the winning effort. Yik Sim (179-G-95) answered with 13 points for Malaysia. Jia Tong (189-F-95) had 12 points and 11 rebounds in the loss.

Indonesia U18: Andre Andriano 17, Jan Panagan 16+10 boards, Oei Steven 14
Malaysia U18: Yik Sim 13, Jia Tong 12+11 boards


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


Iran B NT Camp - by Mohammad Amin Maghsoodlou

IRIBF invited 22 players to Iran NT B team.

players list :
1- Mohammad Ebrahiminia (198-F-88)
2- Navid Farahani (194-F-88)
3- Mohammad Ojaghi (180-F-93)
4- Majid GhasemZadeh (188-G-89)
5- Mohammad Khaleghifard (201-C-85)
6- Mohammad Amjad (190-G-90)
7- Mohsen Tavana
8- Mohammadreza Ghorbani (193-F-88)
9- Nima Bakhshi (198-F-89)
10- Sasoon Abramian (206-F/C-87)
11- Adnan Doraghi
12- Sajad Mohammadi
13- Yaghoub Shaloushi
14- Adnan Shahverdi
15- Jaber Soubdani
16- Amir Tatari (201-F)
17- Ali Moulayi
18- Hamed Hosseinzadeh (188-G)
19- Amir Sabaghian
20- Kavan Ghotbi (85)
21- Shahab Soltani
22- Mohsen Mohammadi

Staff :
Mehmed Becirovic Head Coach
Slobodan Mitev Assistant
Safa Ali Kamalian Assistant


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


Market news, rumors and overview - by Giovanni Bargna

While the economic crisis is having tough impacts on many teams of the league the LegaBasket has just sent a letter to 5 teams that currently are not rule compliant in order to enter next season's tournament. They are Montegranaro, Cremona, Treviso, Teramo and an unspecified one (could be Roma?) and there's a 15-days deadline set to satisfy the rules.

In the meantime all of the others are working hard on the market and trying to plan the upcoming season. Here below some of the recent rumors.

Pallacanestro Cantu that was recently given a wild-card to acces the Euroleague qualifying round is now trying to strengthen its roster under the boards. Giorgi Shermadini flew to Israel joining Maccabi TLV and Greg Brunner's contract won't be extended. The deal with Marco Cusin (211-C-85, agency: Interperformances) should be officially announced soon. The player, who spent last season with Scavolini Pesaro and plays in the italian national team, found an agreement with Cantu for a two-year contract. Getting to rumors it has been said that the team is in talks also with Linton Johnson (203-F/C-80, agency: Priority Sports, college: Tulane) and made a good offer. The big man from Chicago is off an outstanding season with Avellino and could leave the team. Vladimir Micov (203-F-85, agency: Beo Basket) should make a decision within the end of june (stayin' in Cantu or leaving) and Nicolas Mazzarino (181-PG-75, agency: Players Group) could leave after 7 seasons. The team seems to be in talks also with Luigi Datome (202-G/F-87) (depends on Micov?) and Achille Polonara (203-F-91), one of the most interesting italian prospects.

EA7 Emporio Armani Milano, after having inked Richard Hendrix (203-F/C-86, college: Alabama), is now in talks with Daniel Hackett (198-G-87, agency: Two Points, college: USC). The italian combo-guard had very good performances at Pesaro last season. Leon Radosevic (206-C-90) was sent on loan to Lietuvos Rytas and the team is long time reported as interested in Keith Langford. Latest rumor says Milano contacted Diamantidis.

The defending champs of Montepaschi announced the new head coach few days ago. Luca Banchi has been assisting Pianigiani for years and now has a great chance to lead the team as the head coach. Attilio Caja could be inked as assistant, Shaun Stonerook should retire, while Kaukenas, Thornton, Andersen and Bo McCalebb will probably leave the team. Just as Milano Siena is in talks with Hackett and seems interested in a deal with Mancinelli.

Banco di Sardegna Sassari is off a very great season and will enter next eurocup season. The best news was the confirmation of both of the Diener cousins for next season. No rumors are reported so far except from Quinton Hosley (201-F/G-84, college: Fresno St.) probably leaving the team.

Canadian Solar Bologna will face a budget decrease next year. Petteri Koponen (194-G-88) left for Khimky and also Viktor Sanikidze (203-F-86) won't be with Bologna next season. As per the rumors they are in talks with Phil Goss (186-G-83, college: Drexel), out of Varese, and Mason Rocca (204-F-77, college: Princeton) as Milano could decide not to extend his contract.

Pesaro gave up entering next Eurocup season and no signs have been announced yet. Most of last season roster is leaving. Coach Dalmonte could become Pianigiani's assistant at Fenerbahce, Cusin will be announced by Cantu, Hickman signed with Maccabi while James White (199-G-84, agency: Court Side, college: Cincinnati), Jumaine Jones (203-F-79, college: Georgia) and Daniel Hackett are considering many offers.

Umana Venezia is one of the main actors of this market period. After inking Eric Williams (206-C-84, college: Wake Forest), who's back to Italy after playing for Astana in Kazakhstan, they are going to announce Yakhouba Diawara (201-F-82, college: Pepperdine) soon. The french big man did great last season at Varese.

Scandone Avellino is looking for a new coach as Vitucci left for Varese and Luca Bechi and Ramagli are in talks with the team. Linton Johnson should leave, while point-guard Marques Green's contract could be extended soon.

Cimberio Varese signed coach Vitucci and Ebi Ere (195-G/F-81, college: Oklahoma) who spent last season in Spain at Obradoiro. The team had a contact with Brandon Bowman (204-F-84, college: Georgetown) and with Cantu in order to have on loan one out of Tabu and Cinciarini.

Biella inked Nicola Jaramaz (192-G-91) from Partizan and should confirm Linos-Spyridon Chrysikopoulos (206-F-92).

No significant rumors from Treviso, Roma, Cremona, Teramo, Montegranaro, Caserta and newcomers Reggio Emilia and Brindisi so far.


Casale Monferrato announce Giulio Griccioli as head coach - by Giovanni Bargna

As the team is planning its future in the next LegaDue season, Novipiu Casale Monferrato announce Giulio Griccioli as the new head coach.
Griccioli had a very long experience (11 years) coaching the youth teams of Montepaschi Siena, his hometown.
Then became one of Pianigiani's assistant coaches in 2009.
He spent last two seasons as head coach at Scafati Basket reaching the playoffs quarterfinals in the first and the semifinals in his second season.
Griccioli was named best LegaDue coach in season 2010-2011.
An official presentation press conference is scheduled on next Friday, June 29, at 12:15pm.


Virtus Bologna and Poeta extend contract - by Giovanni Bargna

After a week made up of rumors about this Giuseppe Poeta (190-G-85) and Virtus Bologna found an agreement and extended the contract for three years.
The point guard previous contract was expiring at the end of next season.
"It's an important day for us - said the owner of the team Claudio Sabatini - extending this contract was our main goal and he will be a landmark for us in the upcoming season. I thank Poeta for his helpfulness to the team".


Andrea Capobianco takes over Sidigas Avellino - by Eurobasket News

Andrea Capobianco takes over Sidigas Avellino for the next season. According to Sportando.net the Italian specialist will be a head Coach of the team. Capobianco is actually working with the Italian Federation as assistant coach of Simone Pianigiani in the National Team.
Last season Andrea Capobianco has been fired by Banca Tercas Teramo. The Italian coach paid the bad start in Serie A with zero win in six games.Capobianco arrived at the helm of Teramo in June 2008. With the team he reached Italy Cup semifinal in the season 2008/09 and also the semifinals in the playoffs losing by Armani Jeans Milano. At the end of the season he was named Coach of the Year.
Last summer he was also assistant coach of Simone Pianigiani in the Italian National Team.
His new team Avelino finished the last season on the 9th spot. The team finished with 15-17 record and could not make it to the play-offs.


Reyer Venezia close to Yakhouba Diawara - by Eurobasket News

Reyer Venezia have reportedly reached an agreement on terms of contract with Yakhouba Diawara (201-F-82, college: Pepperdine). The forward may soon join the team. Last season Yakhouba Diawara spent in Cimberio Varese. He tallied 15.2 points, 5.2 boards, 1.5 assists and 1.4 steals per game. Eurobasket.com named Diawara into All-Italian SeriaA 1st Team. Previously Yakhouba Diawara had stints with Enel Brindisi, Miami Heat, Denver Nuggets, Bologna and Dijon. He was the member of French National Team in 2006/08 seasons. Previously Yakhouba Diawara also played for U18, U20 and B National selections. Venezia have already started working on the market. They announced Eric Williams before.


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


JBA announces details of new league - by John Scribe

The Japan Basketball Association (JBA) recently announced the details of the new league that will start play in 2013.

In the last couple of years, the Japan Basketball League (JBL) and Basketball Japan (BJ) League had been in talks about
merging with one another to unify the top leagues.

The JBL, the oldest league, is noted for having the top domestic players and most of the National Team players reside in it.
The BJ has been an upstart league entering its 8th year after growing into a league of 21 teams.

The JBA announced that there will be a total of 22 teams in the "New League". Eight teams from the current JBL will be a part
of the league that will announce its new name in august. 3 teams, which includes the Hyogo Storks, Daytrick Tsukuba and
the new Kumamoto franchise will join the BJ's Chiba Jets to round out the first division. All of the existing JBL2 teams will
field the second division of futuristic league.

The latest announcement provides hope to help expand the game of basketball, while encouraging for the unification of the game.
However, there are more issues to be settled out as majority of the teams in the BJ league have not agreed to participate in
the newly formed legion of top pro teams. It remains to be seen if the JBL and BJ will put away its differences to have more of the top
teams from the BJ league join the league to make it as strong as it can be.

Stay tuned for more updates!



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


Kenyan U18 National Team 2012 - by Eurobasket

Basil Okongo Malezi Kenya
James Wanjara Maseno Kenya
Vernon Obonyo Maseno Kenya
Nelson Mandela Maseno Kenya
George Okoth Strathmore U. Kenya
Dennis Odhiambo Alliance Kenya
Michael Maeta Alliance Kenya
Bushman Wamukoya Laiser Hill Kenya
Moses Osure Upper Hill Kenya
Martin Mugambi Upper Hill Kenya
Joseph Ongoro Upper Hill Kenya
Adrian Odindo Upper Hill Kenya
Jacob Njoroge Upper Hill Kenya
Samuel Mogoko NIS Kenya
Cedric Omondi FSK Kenya
Reuben Muraya FSK Kenya
Joseph Obiero FSK Kenya
Sydney Mwanza FSK Kenya
Hamisi Taisir Mombasa Baptist Kenya
Shilton Ochieng Sigalame Kenya
Fredrick Odhiambo Sigalame Kenya
Cedric Lugasi Sigalame Kenya

Tony Ochieng Head Coach Strathmore U. Kenya



*****************************************************
  LAOS   


SEABA U18 Championship: Singapore thrash Laos - by Eurobasket News

Singapore U18 - Laos U18 123:19

Singapore got to a flying start of SEABA U18 Championship. The hosts knocked down Laos in the opener. Eight player scored in double figures for Singapore. Low Remus stepped up with 18 points to lead the winners.
Singapore unloaded 30 points in the first quarter to take a 23-point lead. They started the second frame on an 18:0 run to clear off. They ensured a 61:11 halftime advantage. Singapore finished the third term leading by as many as 74 points. The hosts never looked back in the fourth period rallying to a comfortable win at the end. Tan Jun Wei (183-F-94) and Qing huang Toh accounted for 16 points each for the winners. Sonesavanh Vongmeleuth answered with 6 points for Laos. Phouthong Labouaphieng (180-F-96) had 4 points in defeat.

Singapore U18: Low Remus 18, Tan Jun Wei 16, Qing huang Toh 16
Laos U18: Sonesavanh Vongmeleuth 6, Phouthong Labouaphieng 4


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


Latvia lose second game in Gran Canaria - by Eurobasket News

Spain U17 - Latvia U17 87:54

Latvian U17 National Team suffered the second straight loss at the international tournament in Gran Canaria. The Baltic team surrendered against hosts in the game for the third place.
Spain led from start to finish. The hosts piled up a 22:5 lead ten minutes into the game. They stretched the lead in the second quarter. Spain ensured a 47:18 halftime advantage. Latvia struggled to slow their opponents down in the second half. Spain piled up a 70:38 lead at the final intermission and never looked back en route to the victory. Kristaps Gluditis (190-PG-95) provided 21 points to lead Latvia. Ivars Zvigurs (195-G-95) netted 16 points, while Rihards Ginters (193-F-93) had 7 points in the loss.


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


Lithuania edge Czech Republic in Kaunas - by Eurobasket News

Lithuania U17 - Czech Republic U17 91:89

Lithuania and Czech Republic played the final game of preparation before the upcoming U17 World Championship. Lithuania claimed a narrow victory at the end. Zydrunas Jurgutis (178-PG-95) stepped up with 21 points to lead the hosts.
Czech Republic started the game strongly. The visitors grabbed a 30:25 lead after the opening quarter. Lithuania pulled in front in the second quarter. The hosts secured a 49:45 halftime lead. They stretched the margin in the third quarter. The Baltic team established a 74:62 buffer before the fourth frame. Czech Republic denied the deficit and drew things level at 89 late in regulation. Zydrunas Jurgutis however knocked down a late jumper to seal the victory for the hosts. Edvinas Seskus (192-G/F-95) accounted for 20 points, while Ernestas Serkevicius (187-PG-95) added 17 points for the winners. Martin Peterka (200-F-95) answered with 24 points for Czech Republic. Jiri Soula (188-PG-95) provided 23 points in the loss.

Lithuania U17: Zydrunas Jurgutis 21, Edvinas Seskus 20, Ernestas Serkevicius 17
Czech Republic U17: Martin Peterka 24, Jiri Soula 23


Marko Popovic and Vytenis Lipkevicius stay with Lithuanian champions - by Eurobasket News

Marko Popovic (185-G-82, agency: Alti Sport, college: S.Idaho JC) and Vytenis Lipkevicius (197-F-89) stay with Lithuanian champions for another year. According to lithuaniabasketball.com, the players will stay in the roster.
Last year Marko Popovic was back to Zalgiris after three years with Unics Kazan. The Croatian point guard penned a 1+1 year deal with Lithuanian giant. Popovic had 13.8 ppg, 2.6 rpg and 5.8 apg for 11 games in EuroCup with Unics. In PBL, he averaged 11.6 points and 3.9 assists for 29 games and Unics reached Semifinals. In VTB United League, Popovic shined with 17.8 ppg, 2.3 rpg and 4.9 apg. In 2011-2012 for B.C. Zalgiris Kaunas (Lithuania-LKL) he averaged 10.3ppg, 1.7rpg, Assists-5 (3.8apg), FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 34.9%, FT-2 (89.5%) in Lithuanian league.
Vytenis Lipkevicius startd the season 2011-2012 for KK Baltai Kaunas (LKL), but then moved to B.C. Zalgiris Kaunas (LKL, starting five). In Euroleague he averaged 0.8ppg, 1.3rpg, while in VTB League showed 2.4ppg, 2.5rpg. In Baltic League his stats read 5.5ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.3spg, while in Lithuanian League he had 4.1ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.6apg, 1.0spg.


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


SEABA U18: Indonesia defeat Malaysia in opener - by Eurobasket News

Indonesia U18 - Malaysia U18 81:73

Indonesian U18 National Team recorded the first win at the SEABA U18 Championship. They overcame Malaysian counterparts in Singapore yesterday. Andre Andriano stepped up with 17 points and 7 rebounds to lead the winners.
Indonesia jumped to an early lead but Malaysia denied the deficit by the end of the opening quarter. The scoreboard read 15:15 at the end of the first frame. Indonesia pulled in front once again in the second quarter. They piled up a 41:34 halftime lead. Indonesia maintained the lead throughout the third quarter. They secured a 57:50 buffer heading into the fourth term. Indonesia wisely kept their opponents at distance throughout the final quarter sealing victory at the end. Jan Panagan accounted for 16 points and 10 rebounds, while Oei Steven had 14 points in the winning effort. Yik Sim (179-G-95) answered with 13 points for Malaysia. Jia Tong (189-F-95) had 12 points and 11 rebounds in the loss.

Indonesia U18: Andre Andriano 17, Jan Panagan 16+10 boards, Oei Steven 14
Malaysia U18: Yik Sim 13, Jia Tong 12+11 boards


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


Free Agent Scorecard: Asik vs Stiemsma - by Julius Johnson


How much difference is there between restricted free agents Omer Asik (7'0''-C-86) (Bulls) and Gregory Stiemsma (6'11''-C-85, agency: N.E.T., college: Wisconsin) (Celtics)?

The Bleacher Report lists Asik as the 9th best free agent center and Stiemsma as 10th best. The Bleacher Report goes on to say that Asik will likely demand approximately $36 million over four years.

Both big men played important reserve roles for top tier teams.

Statistically, Asik and Stiemsma are locked in a dead heat. The two are virtually even in efficiency, scoring, and assists. Asik rebounded better, but Stiemsma blocked more shots.

Where the two differ significantly is in free throw percentage. Asik shot a woeful 45.6% whereas Stiemsma hit on over 70% of his free throws.

So, where does this leave Stiemsma's value?

If he stays with the Celtics, lacking Bird rights, Stiemsma is likely maxed out at just over $3 million a year. But, if Asik is worth $8 million a season, it could very well be that a team needing a big could reach to the non-taxpayer mid-level ($5 million per season).

On July 1, don't be surprised to see Stiemsma and Asik mentioned in the same breath.


Maccabi's Israeli Player of the Year, Lior Eliyahu's Rights Traded to Minnesota - by David Pick

The Houston Rockets traded forward Chase Budinger to the Minnesota Timberwolves for the 18th overall pick in the draft, giving Houston the 14th, 16th and 18th picks in Thursday's draft. The Rockets also included the rights to 27-year-old Israeli forward Lior Eliyahu, according to a report by Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo! Sports.

Eliyahu, last season's Israeli League Player of the Year and Eurobasket.com's All-Adriatic League Honorable Mention, was selected by the Orlando Magic with the 44th pick of the 2006 NBA Draft. He was later traded to the Rockets for cash considerations. Eliyahu will play with Minnesota in the NBA summer league.

Eliyahu's Israeli agent Yossi Gayer, who previously played host in Israel to the Timberwolves' president of basketball operations David Kahn, confirmed the information to Eurobasket, adding, "David is big believer and supporter of Israel."

Gayer also believes the Timberwolves will show his client more opportunities to showcase his talents on the NBA level. Despite Eliyahu being under contract with Maccabi for the upcoming 2012-13 season, he owns an NBA out clause in his contract. One Gayer believes isn't to be paid by the player. "Lior has a buyout option of around $500,000. When the time comes and we will need to use it, I don't think it will be an issue of who needs to pay it. It won't necessarily be Lior."

Last season, Eliyahu played with Maccabi Tel-Aviv in three competitions and averaged 11.7 points, 4 rebound and 1.6 assists in the Adriatic League, 8.6 point and 3 boards in the Euroleague and season high averages in points with 13 per game in the Israeli domestic competition.




Pistons trade Ben Gordon and a pick next year to Charlotte for Corey Maggette. - by Bryan Floyd

According to multiple reports the Pistons have traded Ben Gordon (6'2''-G-83, college: Connecticut) and a lottery-protected 2013 first-round pick to Charlotte for F Corey Maggette. Gordon should challenge Gerald Henderson for the starting two guard spot in Charlotte depending on who they draft on Thursday,while Maggette will try to stay healthy enough just to play in Detroit in order to hopefully get another contract. The move will save Detroit about $15 million on the two remaining years on Gordon's contract, while Maggette's got an expiring deal.


Rockets trade Chase Budinger to T-wolves for 18th overall pick. - by Bryan Floyd

According to a report by Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo Sports,The Wolves have acquired Chase Budinger (6'7''-F-88, college: Arizona) in a trade with the Rockets in exchange for the 18th overall pick. Houston has also included the draft rights to Lior Eliyahu.The Rockets now own the 14th, 16th and 18th picks in the first round. The Rockets will be able to add three quality players or may be just sweetening the pot to pull off a huge draft day trade. Either way the Rockets have put themselves in a good situation to make some kind of move on Thursday and they have been rumored to be in the Dwight Howard sweepstakes. Stay tuned.


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


USA U17 clinch title in Gran Canaria - by Eurobasket News

USA U17 - Australia U17 89:64

USA U17 National Team celebrated victory at the international tournament in Gran Canaria, Spain. They overcame Australian counterparts in the title game. Jahlil Okafor-Benton (6'9''-C-95) came up with 19 points and 6 boards to lead the winners. He was named the tournaments MVP after the game.
The teams stayed close throughout the opening quarter. The North American team eked out a 26:24 lead at the first break. USA stretched the gap in the second quarter. They secured a 47:38 halftime advantage. The North American side boosted the gap in the third term. They exploded with 29 points to pile up a 21-point advantage before the fourth period. USA did not look back afterwards cruising to the victory at the end. Stanley Johnson (6'5''-F-96) knocked down 15 points and grabbed 8 rebounds for the USA. Stephen Domingo (6'7''-F-95) and Kendrick Nunn (6'2''-G-95) added 10 points each in the victory. Dante Exum (6'4''-G-95) answered with 15 points for Australia. Mirko Djeric (6'4''-G-95) had 11 points in the loss.

USA U17: Jahlil Okafor-Benton 19, Stanley Johnson 15, Stephen Domingo 10, Kendrick Nunn 10
Australia U17: Dante Exum 15, Mirko Djeric 11


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


Brazil fire past New Zealand in San Carlos - by Eurobasket News

Brazil - New Zealand 73:49

Brazil registered the first win at the Torneio Eletrobras in San Carlos. They held off New Zealand in the opener. Marquinhos Vieira (207-F-84) stepped up with 14 points to lead the hosts.
Brazil held the Tall Blacks to just 9 points in the opening quarter to build a 10-point lead 19:9. New Zealand struggled offensively scoring 7 points in the second quarter as Brazil stretched the lead. The hosts ensured a 33:16 halftime advantage. The Latin American team did not slow down in the second half. Brazil accumulated a 54:32 lead with one period remaining. New Zealand never recovered and had to surrender at the end. Marcelo Magalhaes (199-F/G-75, agency: Interperformances) accounted for 10 points, while Guilherme Giovannoni (202-F-80, agency: Interperformances) and Hilario Nene (207-C-82) added 9 points each for the winners. Tai Jack Webster (186-G-95) responded with 8 points for New Zealand. Casey Frank (203-F-77, college: N.Arizona) accounted for 7 points in defeat.

Brazil: Marquinhos Vieira 14, Marcelo Magalhaes 10, Guilherme Giovannoni 9, Hilario Nene 9
New Zealand: Tai Jack Webster 8, Casey Frank 7


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


Greece topple Nigeria in Brazil - by Eurobasket News

Greece - Nigeria 88:76

Greek National Team victoriously opened their Torneio Electrobras international tournament in Brazil. They held off Nigeria in the opening game. Vassilis Spanoulis (193-G-82, agency: Beo Basket) knocked down 20 points to lead the Hellenes.
Greece jumped to an early lead. They established a 26:19 lead ten minutes into the game. Nigeria however denied the deficit and pulled ahead in the second quarter. The African powerhouse grabbed a 45:42 halftime lead. They maintained it throughout the third quarter. Nigeria enjoyed a 64:62 advantage with one quarter remaining. But Greece turned things around in the final period. They scored 26 points and snatched a tough win at the end. Georgios Printezis (206-F-85, agency: FCM) posted 15 points, while Nick Calathes (198-G-89, college: Florida) added 12 points for the winners. Ike Diogu (204-F/C-83, college: Arizona St.) answered with 17 points for Nigeria. Kola Alade (191-G) had 16 points in the loss.

Greece: Vassilis Spanoulis 20, Georgios Printezis 15, Nick Calathes 12
Nigeria: Ike Diogu 17, Kola Alade 16


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


Puerto Rico and Macedonia ready for action: - by Marcos Carlo

Everything is ready for the friendly matchup between Puerto Rico and Macedonia on Wednesday and Thursday at Coliseo de Puerto Rico as they prepare for the Olympic Qualifying Tournament that begins on July 2.

Both countries have their final rosters ready and will make their final adjustments during the week depending on the results.

Puerto Rico already has Carlos Arroyo (188-G-79, college: FIU), Nathan Peavy and Renaldo Balkman practicing under Flor Melendez. The rest of the team includes Andres Rodriguez, JJ Barea, David Huertas, Mike Rosario, Alex Galindo, Ricky Sanchez, Alex Franklin, Peter John Ramos and Daniel Santiago.

Macedonia had some games in Atlanta, Georgia and will now have Bo McCalebb who was their star in the 2011 Eurobasket. This team finished fourth in Eurobasket and wants their first Olympic berth. They are in Group D with Angola and New Zealand.

The other players of Macedonia are Aleksandar Kostoski, Vlado Ilievski, Darko Sokolov, Vojdan Stojanovski, Damjan Stojanovski, Marko Simonovski, Todor Gecevski, Pero Antic, Kiril Nikolovski, Gjorgji Cekovski and Predrag Samardziski.


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


Spartak St Petersburg eye Anthony Leon Tucker - by Eurobasket News

Spartak St Petersburg eye Anthony Leon Tucker (198-F-85, college: Texas) for the next season. According to news.sport-express.ru the Russian team is ready to pay 1.8 mln.
In 2011-2012 for Brose Baskets Bamberg (Germany-1.Bundesliga) Anthony Leon Tucker averaged 8.9ppg, 6.2rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 52.2%, FT: 63.3% in Euroleague. In German League he became the second top-scorer with 16.2ppg, Reb-5 (7.1rpg), 1.4apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 61.7%, 3PT: 47.5%, FT: 77.0%.
Together with Brose Baskets Anthony Leon Tucker defended Beko BBL Title as they swept the Final series over Ratiopharm. The winner of the Regular Season celebrated a 97:95 win in Game 3 to win the series 3-0.
Only last season he participated at the German Bundesliga All-Star Game -12 and became German Bundesliga Cup Winner -12. He was named Eurobasket.com All-German Bundesliga Forward of the Year -12 and Eurobasket.com All-German Bundesliga Import Player of the Year -12. Moreover Tucker became German Bundesliga Regular Season Champion -12 and German Bundesliga Champion -12.


Unics Kazan brings Pavel Sergeev back to the roster - by Eurobasket News

Unics Kazan announced Pavel Sergeev (186-PG-87, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav) for the next season. The Russian point guard according to sportando.net via VK Unics Kazan will move from Spartak SPB.
In 2004-2005 he started for Spartak St.Petersburg (A Superleague) and in 13 games averaged 3.4ppg, 1.0rpg. In 2005-2006 moved to 2007-2008: Unics Kazan and in ULEB Cup averaged 4.0ppg, 1.8rpg, 1.5apg, 1.0spg. In Russian League after 19 games his stats read 3.2ppg.
In 2008-2009 Pavel Sergeev joined Triumph Lyubertsy (A Superleague) and in EuroChallenge averaged 5.3ppg, 1.3rpg, FGP: 37.5%, 3PT: 44.7%, FT: 77.8%. In Russian League after 20 games he showed 5.0ppg, 1.3apg. After another season with Triumph, he moved to Enisey Krasnoyarsk (PBL) and in Russian League had 9.0ppg, 2.2rpg, 2.8apg, FGP: 46.1%, 3PT: 34.0%, FT-3 (89.4%). The last season Pavel spent with Spartak St.Petersburg (PBL) and in VTB League showed 2.4ppg. In Russian League he averaged 1.8ppg.


Russia earn comfortable victory over Great Britain - by Eurobasket News

Russia - Great Britain 87:51

Russian National Team played another friendly game prior to the start of Olympic Qualifying Tournament. They faced Great Britain in San Antonio. Russia claimed a comfortable win behind 16 points from Timofey Mozgov (216-C-86, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav).
Great Britain entered the game without Luol Deng, Pops Mensah-Bonsu, Joel Freeland and Archibald. Russia capitalized taking over right from the start. David Blatt team eased in front in the first half and never looked back en route to the victory. Vitaly Fridzon (195-G-85, agency: Alti Sport) accounted for 13 points for Russia. Sergey Monya (203-F-83) and Andrei Kirilenko (205-F-81) added 11 points each for the winners. Daniel Clark (210-F/C-88, agency: Interperformances) answered with 12 points for Great Britain. Eric Boateng (208-C-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Arizona St.) finished with 11 points and 14 rebounds in the loss. The teams are scheduled to meet again on June 28th in Houston.

Russia: Timofey Mozgov 16, Vitaly Fridzon 13, Sergey Monya 11, Andrei Kirilenko 11
Great Britain: Daniel Clark 12, Eric Boateng 11+14 boards


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


Rwandan U18 National Team 2012 - by Eurobasket

Rwabigwi Adronis
Eric Ngenzi
Danny Manzi
Ronald Karenzi
Patrice Twagirayezu
Norbert Ishimwe
Jonathan Rutare
Scifon Shyaka

Nenad Amanovic Head Coach Medvescak Croatia



*****************************************************
  SINGAPORE   


SEABA U18 Championship: Singapore thrash Laos - by Eurobasket News

Singapore U18 - Laos U18 123:19

Singapore got to a flying start of SEABA U18 Championship. The hosts knocked down Laos in the opener. Eight player scored in double figures for Singapore. Low Remus stepped up with 18 points to lead the winners.
Singapore unloaded 30 points in the first quarter to take a 23-point lead. They started the second frame on an 18:0 run to clear off. They ensured a 61:11 halftime advantage. Singapore finished the third term leading by as many as 74 points. The hosts never looked back in the fourth period rallying to a comfortable win at the end. Tan Jun Wei (183-F-94) and Qing huang Toh accounted for 16 points each for the winners. Sonesavanh Vongmeleuth answered with 6 points for Laos. Phouthong Labouaphieng (180-F-96) had 4 points in defeat.

Singapore U18: Low Remus 18, Tan Jun Wei 16, Qing huang Toh 16
Laos U18: Sonesavanh Vongmeleuth 6, Phouthong Labouaphieng 4


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


Latinbasket.com All-South American Championships Awards 2012 - by Eurobasket Center

Latinbasket.com All-Tournament 1st Team 2011-2012
#s#
Leonardo Gutierrez
Gutierrez
Greivis Vasquez
Vasquez
Leandro Garcia Morales
Garcia Morales
Vitor Benite
Benite
Guillermo Araujo
Araujo
#e#5

Best Player: Leonardo Gutierrez (200-F-78) of Argentina
Best Guard: Greivis Vasquez (198-PG-87) of Venezuela
Best Forward: Leonardo Gutierrez (200-F-78) of Argentina
Best Center: Guillermo Araujo (205-C-82) of Paraguay
Best Coach: Gonzalo Garcia of Argentina

1st Team
PG: Greivis Vasquez (198-87) of Venezuela
G: Leandro Garcia Morales (186-80) of Uruguay
F/G: Vitor Benite (190-90) of Brazil
F: Leonardo Gutierrez (200-78) of Argentina
C: Guillermo Araujo (205-82) of Paraguay

2nd Team
G: Javier Martinez (189-78) of Paraguay
G: Evandro Arteaga (178-83) of Chile
G: Jayson Granger (186-89) of Uruguay
F/C: Divier Perez (201-89) of Colombia
C: Augusto Cesar Lima (206-91) of Brazil

Honorable Mention
Nicolas Laprovittola (188-PG-90) of Argentina
Marcos Mata (201-F-86) of Argentina
Welington Dos Santos (185-PG-81) of Brazil
Mauricio Aguiar (197-F-83) of Uruguay
Axiers Sucre (198-F-78) of Venezuela
Erik Carrasco (181-PG-83) of Chile
Daniel Perez (190-G/F-84) of Paraguay
Enielsen Guevara (204-F/C-82) of Colombia


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


Eurobasket.com All-Spanish EBA Awards 2011-2012 - by Eurobasket Center

Eurobasket.com All-Spanish EBA 1st Team 2012
#s#
Albert Ros
Ros
David Garcia
Garcia
Jonathan Ramirez
Ramirez
Ibon Carreto
Carreto
Georffri Silvestre
Silvestre
#e#5

Player of the Year: Albert Ros (193-F-81) of Sedis
Guard of the Year: Jonathan Ramirez (192-G-78) of Mollet
Forward of the Year: Albert Ros (193-F-81) of Sedis
Center of the Year: Georffri Silvestre (202-F/C-79) of Santa Cruz
Bosman Player of the Year: Thomas Laerke (194-G/F-91) of Aurteneche M.
Import Player of the Year: Georffri Silvestre (202-F/C-79) of Santa Cruz
Domestic Player of the Year: Albert Ros (193-F-81) of Sedis
Defensive Player of the Year: Hugo Rodriguez (186-G-76) of Un.Oviedo
Coach of the Year: Ferran Aranda of Santfeliuenc

1st Team
G: David Garcia (193-80) of Pielagos
G: Jonathan Ramirez (192-78) of Mollet
F: Albert Ros (193-81) of Sedis
F: Ibon Carreto (199-84) of Zornotza
F/C: Georffri Silvestre (202-79) of Santa Cruz

2nd Team
PG: Xavier Guia (185-86) of Torrelavega SAB
G: Hugo Rodriguez (186-76) of Un.Oviedo
G/F: Thomas Laerke (194-91) of Aurteneche M.
F: Asier De la Iglesia (201-83) of Alona Mendi KE
F: Marcos Sanesteban (198-79) of Naron

Honorable Mention
Asier Arzallus (203-F-83) of Cafes Aitona
Iker Benzazova (182-PG-80) of Calpe
Luis Lorido (204-C-85) of ABP Badajoz
Jose Fernandez (200-F/C-78) of Begastri
Lorenzo Gonzalez (205-C-79) of Calpe
Alvaro Lombera (201-F-84) of Estela
Eloi Galofre (195-G-87) of Torrelavega SAB
Sergio De La Fuente (198-C-89) of Valladolid Univ.
Martin Buesa (202-F/C-88) of Alava
Raul Respuela (196-F-72) of La Paz
Zack Moritz (210-C-88) of Zamora
Daniel Gonzalez (202-F-84) of Un.Oviedo
Ignacio Fort (200-F-83) of Real Canoe M.
Juan Garcia (200-F/C-89) of Casvi
Stefan Djordjevic (206-C-89) of Torrelodones
Luis Molina (190-G-85) of Santfeliuenc
Oscar Andres (201-F/C-87) of Torrassa
Rogelio Legasa (207-C-74) of CAI Zaragoza
Alejandro Marin (190-G-88) of Cimbis
Eduardo Guillen (201-F-88) of C.A.M. E.Soler
Teodoro Aguirre (205-C-82) of Andujar
Alberto Alzamora (197-F-74) of Palma
Pedro Luis Cruza (198-F-75) of L'Alfas
Damian Iturriaga (184-PG-88) of Burriana

All-Domestic Players Team
G: David Garcia (193-80) of Pielagos
G: Jonathan Ramirez (192-78) of Mollet
F: Albert Ros (193-81) of Sedis
F: Ibon Carreto (199-84) of Zornotza
F: Marcos Sanesteban (198-79) of Naron

All-Imports Team
G: Juan Sutina (192-90) of Ferrol
F: Derek Stribling (198-82) of Granollers
F/C: Bernard Rimmer (203-85) of Tenerife Naut.
F/C: Georffri Silvestre (202-79) of Santa Cruz
C/F: Sileye Dioum (205-86) of Cordoba

All-Bosmans Team
PG: Gavrilo Markovic (186-91) of Mallorca
G: Brian Savoy (192-92) of Zamora
G/F: Thomas Laerke (194-91) of Aurteneche M.
F: Nemanja Knezevic (203-87) of ABP Badajoz
C: Stefan Djordjevic (206-89) of Torrelodones


Malaga farewell to Berni Rodriguez - by Eurobasket News

Malaga farewell to Berni Rodriguez (197-F/G-80, agency: Court Side) as the player will not play for the club next season. He will get a lasting honor with Unicajas decision that his No. 5 jersey will be retired.
Berni Rodriguez joined the team in 1997 in stayed with the squad for his all career! In 2010 Unicaja Malaga agreed terms with their captain 30-year old domestic swingman Berni Rodriguez to stay for the last two seasons. He has played in various Spanish NT categories for the last 15 years, all these years with Unicaja.
Early in November it was Berni Rodriguez who grabbed an the offensive rebounds and hit a fadeaway jumper that went right in to put Unicaja with 79:78 win over Bamberg in EuroLeague.
In 2011-2012 for Unicaja Malaga (ACB, starting five) he averaged 5.1ppg, 1.6rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 46.7%, 3PT: 27.3%, FT: 81.0% in Euroleague. In Spanish League after 34 games his stats read 5.3ppg, 1.6rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 41.9%, 3PT: 28.4%, FT: 71.1%.


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


Jerebko to play with the National Team - by Andreas Eriksson

Fantastic news for the Swedish National Team came today. NBA-player Jonas Jerebko (206-F-87) will play for the National Team this summer in it's qualification games to the Eurobasket 2013. Jerebko had earlier declined invitation this summer (but planned to join the NT again next year) because of his achilles tendon injury that forced him to miss the entire 10-11 season in the NBA, and after a exhausting 11-12 season with Detroit, it was decided he would spend the summer rehabbing and resting, but the achilles tendon and rehab has gotten so much stronger and better that Jonas can play for the National Team this year already. A GREAT addition for Sweden as it tries to qualify.


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


Anadolu Efes signed with Birkan Batuk - by Ugur Turker

Birkan Batuk (198-F-90) joined Anadolu Efes after two years succesfull spell in Pinar Karsiyaka SK Izmir. Contact is covering next two years.Earlier of the off-season, it was claimed that Birkan Batuk was in radar of Oktay Mahmudi (agency: Beo Basket ) and so close to sign with Galatasaray Medical Park Istanbul. Nevertheless, Promising star followed Mahmudi's footstep after Turkish coach has became new head coach of Anadolu Efes. Pinar Karsiyaka SK Izmir will gain $100.000 from Batuk's buyout. Birkan who played 10.0 ppg and 2.1 rpg last year is expected to be called up Turkish National Team by new coach Bogdan Tanjevic (agency: Interperformances ) as a replace of Hidayet Turkolu who asked to rest this summer.


Anadolu Efes signed with Birkan Batuk - by Ugur Turker

Birkan Batuk (198-F-90) joined Anadolu Efes after two years succesfull spell in Pinar Karsiyaka SK Izmir. Contact is covering next two years.Earlier of the off-season, it was claimed that Birkan Batuk was in radar of Oktay Mahmudi (agency: Beo Basket ) and so close to sign with Galatasaray Medical Park Istanbul. Nevertheless, Promising star followed Mahmudi's footstep after Turkish coach has became new head coach of Anadolu Efes. Pinar Karsiyaka SK Izmir will gain $100.000 from Batuk's buyout. Birkan who played with 10.0 ppg and 2.1 rpg last year is expected to be called up Turkish National Team for Eurobasket 2013 Qualification Tour by new coach Bogdan Tanjevic (agency: Interperformances ) as a replace of Hidayet Turkolu who asked to rest this summer.


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


LA Film Fest 2012 Review: THE IRAN JOB - by David Edole

THE IRAN JOB is a documentary by filmmakers Till Schauder and Sara Nodjoumi. It follows Kevin Sheppard (182-G-79, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Jacksonville), a basketball player from the Virgin Islands as he begins his one year contract playing for the Iranian Basketball Super League.
This is a fantastic movie and right off the bat, I want to encourage anyone, who has the chance, to go see it. Often, documentaries about the Middle East are challenging, non-inviting films that can be a chore to watch. They are heavy, both in emotion and in information. Even the most inspirational can also be major downers due to the nature of the subject matter. The Iran Job is nothing like that at all.

What Schauder and Nodjoumi do so brilliantly is blend two very different types of films together in an impressively balanced way. Since the movie is ostensibly about Kevin and basketball, the central plot is that of a sports film. Kevin's team is brand new to the league. They are the underdogs and thus, we root for them. We see the team develop, we see Kevin grow into his roll as the team captain and we see them work their way up from the lowest standings in the league. Some of the games build to great crescendos as his team takes the lead in the last seconds of a game. Hollywood couldn't plan it better.

But there is another movie here under the surface that focuses on what it's like to live life in Iran. Through Kevin's teammates and friends, we learn much about the culture, politics and struggles of the Iranian people. However, we see this all through our protagonist Kevin's eyes (and Kevin is one hell of a protagonist). Not only is he smart and insightful, but he is tremendously charismatic and funny. I would watch this film again in a heartbeat, just to get to hang out with him for another hour and a half. One of the best sequences is when he decides he needs a Christmas tree and enlists his building supervisor to help him find one. The super speaks little to no English and Kevin speaks little to no Farsi. It just so happens te word "Christmas" sounds a lot like the Farsi word for "raisin." Hilarity ensues.

At the end of the day, this film is both fun and enlightening. While Kevin is amazing, the true heroes of this story are three women that Kevin befriends. They risk everything (in the ultimate sense of the word) to put themselves on camera. They discuss their lives openly and this puts them at real risk, now that the film is out. At the Q and A after the first screening at The Los Angeles Film Festival, the director told us that the trailer made its way to Iran and was immediately branded the American Anti-Iran film. The movie was vilified as were those who cooperated in the making of it.

Schauder flew to Iran and personally showed it to these three women. (The women are at much more risk than the men involved, because of the nature of the government mandated chauvinistic practices of the country). Schauder told them that he would gladly do whatever they wanted him to do, to ensure their safety. He would blur their faces and change their voices if they wanted, or he would even go so far as to recut the movie, completely removing all traces of them. Each one said no. Leave it as it is. This is important and worth the extraordinary risk. I can't tell you how courageous they are or how important a movie like this is.

The Iran Job shows how good the people of Iran are. How passionate and how repressed. The Iranian government might deserve to be part of "The Axis of Evil" but it's people, by and large, surely do not.

This is a tiny film and needs all the help it can get. Check out the website, watch the trailer and then, well, the ball is in your court.

THE IRAN JOB made its world premiere as part of the Documentary Competition at the 2012 Los Angeles Film Festival

by Alex Koehne, June 26, 2012 2:49 PM


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


BC Odessa officially announce Andriy Agafonov - by Eurobasket News

BC Odessa confirmed today the signing of Andriy Agafonov (207-F-86, agency: Interperformances). He signed a two-year deal with the team. The forward spent the last two seasons with Budivelnyk. Last season the forward averaged 6.6 points and 3.1 rebounds per game in VTB League. In Superleague his stats read 7.9 points, 4.2 rebounds and 1.2 assists per appearance. He became Ukrainian Cup winner with Budivelnyk in 2012. Previously the forward played for Khimik Yuzny. Andriy Agafonov has been the member of Ukrainian National Team since 2008. He also played for U20 National Team. Eurobasket.com named Andriy Agafonov into Ukrainian Superleague All-Domestic Team in 2008, 2010 and 2012.


Khimik land Willie Deane - by Eurobasket News

Khimik bolstered their backcourt. They announced the deal with Willie Deane (188-PG-80, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: Purdue). The guard started the previous season in Ukraine. He played for BC Odessa. Willie Deane averaged 18.4 points, 5.8 assists, 3.9 rebounds and 1.5 steals per game in Superleague. In February Willie Deane moved to Asefa Estudiantes. The guard notched 5.7 points, 1.6 assists, 1.4 rebounds and 1.0 steal per game in ACB. Previously Willie Deane had stints in Bulgaria, France, Poland, Lithuania, Russia, Italy, Greece and Turkey. Eurobasket.com named the guard All-Bulgarian League Player of the Year in 2008. He made it onto Bulgarian League All-Imports Team in 2008, 2009 and 2010. The guard also earned All-ULEB Cup Honourable Mention in 2008.


MBC Mykolaiv confirm Josh Mayo and Igor Chumakov - by Eurobasket News

MBC Mykolaiv announced the signing of Josh Mayo (182-G-87, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav, college: Ill.-Chicago) and Igor Chumakov (207-C-90, agency: New Trend Agency). 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.
Igor Chumakov spent the previous season with Ferro-ZNTU. The centre averaged 0.7 points and 0.9 rebounds per game. He was the member of U18 and U20 Ukrainian National Teams.


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


Leopards Accepted Into BBL For 2013-14 - by Paul Nilsen

The British Basketball League (BBL) are pleased to announce that they have granted a franchise to the Essex Leopards, who will commence BBL competition from the start of 2013/14 season.

The Leopards won the EBL Division One league, play-off and National Cup titles last season, and will continue to compete in Division One during the forthcoming 2012/13 season. The club also have one of the biggest community programmes outside the BBL, having provided coaching and lifestyle information to over 4000 children last season through the BBL Foundation Hoops 4 Health scheme, and other community projects.

The Leopards have been given time by the BBL to further strengthen their commercial capability, and to finalize their venue arrangements.

Leopards Managing Director Gareth Roberts is delighted that the club will step up to the top flight:

"We are really pleased to be able to bring professional basketball back to Essex, When we reformed the club in 2004, this was always our aim and we are very pleased to now be in a position to play again at the top level of British Basketball."

The Big Cats, Club Chairman Fred Dicker was keen to add that they are still looking to continue to be successful in their final EBL season:

"We're really excited about the prospect of BBL basketball in Essex, and we hope to enter the competition having successfully defended our three titles."

BBL Chairman Paul Blake enthused:

"We are delighted to welcome the Essex Leopards to the BBL. Their community ethos matches perfectly with our own model and we are delighted to re-establish a presence in an area which is renowned for basketball. We have also been impressed with the way the Leopards have developed their Club over the last number of years, which they have demonstrated has very strong foundations. With new franchises in Manchester and East London this season just announced, and now Essex Leopards and Birmingham already confirmed for the 2013-14 season, we are extremely excited by the growth and development of the League".


Russia earn comfortable victory over Great Britain - by Eurobasket News

Russia - Great Britain 87:51

Russian National Team played another friendly game prior to the start of Olympic Qualifying Tournament. They faced Great Britain in San Antonio. Russia claimed a comfortable win behind 16 points from Timofey Mozgov (216-C-86, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav).
Great Britain entered the game without Luol Deng, Pops Mensah-Bonsu, Joel Freeland and Archibald. Russia capitalized taking over right from the start. David Blatt team eased in front in the first half and never looked back en route to the victory. Vitaly Fridzon (195-G-85, agency: Alti Sport) accounted for 13 points for Russia. Sergey Monya (203-F-83) and Andrei Kirilenko (205-F-81) added 11 points each for the winners. Daniel Clark (210-F/C-88, agency: Interperformances) answered with 12 points for Great Britain. Eric Boateng (208-C-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Arizona St.) finished with 11 points and 14 rebounds in the loss. The teams are scheduled to meet again on June 28th in Houston.

Russia: Timofey Mozgov 16, Vitaly Fridzon 13, Sergey Monya 11, Andrei Kirilenko 11
Great Britain: Daniel Clark 12, Eric Boateng 11+14 boards


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


Kalev/Cramo targets Gary Wilkinson - by Eurobasket News

Kalev/Cramo are seeking the market actively to bolster their roster. The reports show the Estonian champions are eying closely Gary Wilkinson (204-F/C-82, college: Utah St.). The team has actually been in talks with the player for some time now. Gary Wilkinson spent the last two seasons in Australia. The forward played for the New Zealand Breakers. Gary Wilkinson averaged 16.6 points, 5.8 rebounds and 1.2 assists per game in NBL last season. He was named All-Australian NBL Forward of the Year for the second season in a row. Gary Wilkinson was also trumped All-Australian NBL Player of the Year in 2011. The forward ended the season in Puerto Rico. Gary Wilkinson played for Vaqueros de Bayamon. He notched 15.8 points, 6.0 boards and 1.6 assists per game in BSN. Previously the player had stints in South Korea and Greece.



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

Women News


Olympic Qualifying Tournament: Argentina take down New Zealand - by Eurobasket News

Argentina - New Zealand 54:51

Argentina celebrated crucial win over New Zealand in the Olympic Games Qualifying Tournament in Ankara. They held off New Zealand to improve at 1-0 record in Group B. Erica Sanchez (184-F/C-76, agency: Players Group) came up with 16 points and 6 boards to lead the Latin American team. The Tall Ferns fell at 0-2 record after the loss.
New Zealand had their backs against the wall after the starting loss to Czech Republic. They started the game aggressively and built a 16:14 lead after ten minutes. Argentina recovered in the second quarter. They held New Zealand to 12 points to build a 32:28 halftime lead. Argentina stayed solid defensively in the third term. They stretched the margin to 6 points with one quarter remaining 43:37. New Zealand got within striking distance late in regulation but Argentina survived the threat and sealed the victory at the end. Debora Gonzalez (172-PG-90, agency: Players Group) accounted for 10 points, while Paula Reggiardo (178-F-84, agency: Players Group) added 9 points for the winners. Natalie Taylor (182-F-84, college: SE Missouri St.) responded with 19 points for New Zealand. Jillian Harmon (185-F-87, college: Stanford) had 12 points in the loss.

Argentina: Erica Sanchez 16, Debora Gonzalez 10, Paula Reggiardo 9
New Zealand: Natalie Taylor 19, Jillian Harmon 12


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


SBL: Redbacks continue to climb (Round 15 women's wrap) - by Eurobasket News

The Perth Redbacks are chasing the top spot after securing their fourth consecutive win on Saturday night, taking down the ninth place Perry Lakes Hawks 68-52.

Perth were led by Rachel Watman (174-G-86, college: ORU) (15 points) with strong support from Marita Payne (ten points, nine rebounds) and Gabby O'Sullivan with ten points.

Hot on the heels of Perth, Kalamunda Eastern Suns smashed bottom of the ladder Mandurah Magic 83-48 on Saturday night, leaving the Magic with their eighth consecutive loss this season.

It was a big weekend for the fourth place Willetton Tigers, taking down the struggling Wanneroo Wolves on Friday night and then the Cockburn Cougars on Saturday.

It was a close call for the Tigers on Friday as they snuck over the line to defeat the Wolves 61-56 in overtime, the Wolves now on a five game losing streak.

Guard Jasmine Hooper starred with 16 point and 11 rebounds, while the Wolves were led by Shani Amos (171-G-91) with 14 points and six rebounds.

Despite an amazing performance form Cougars import Stephanie Jones (188-F/C-80, agency: Regeneracom Sports, college: Missouri Western) (34 points, 15 rebounds) the Cougars fell to the Tigers 84-73.

The Tigers were again led by Jasmine Hooper (25 points, eight rebounds) and Lara Napier with 14 points and 11 rebounds.

Rockingham Flames remain in incredible form after defeating last years grand finalists East Perth Eagles 74-60 on Friday night.

The Flames were led by Kaye Tucker (182-F-83) (21 points), Jacinta Bourne (17 points, seven rebounds) and a double-double from Emma Cannon with 15 points and 14 rebounds.

The Cockburn Cougars also had a close loss to the Lakeside Lightning on Friday night before losing to the Tigers on Saturday.

The Lightning defeated the Cougars 85-81 with impressive performances from Lakesides Emily Fielding (23 points, nine rebounds), Jessica Seyler (18 points) and Courtney Byrnes with 16 points and ten rebounds.

Despite the Cougars loss, Stephanie Jones had an incredible game with 35 points and 22 rebounds.

A last quarter comeback saw the Eagles take down the Stirling Senators 65-60 on Saturday night, Eagles led by Samantha Norwood with 21 points and 13 rebounds.

Article by Hannah Coleman
Courtesy of: http://www.sbl.asn.au/


Australia post second win over Brazil in Melbourne - by Eurobasket News

Australia - Brazil 80:73

Australia clinched the second straight win over Brazil in the Farewell Series. Belinda Snell (181-F-81) and Lauren Jackson (196-F/C-81) came up with 15 points each to lead the hosts.
The teams stayed close throughout the opening quarter. The scoreboard read 18:18 at the first intermission. The Opals pulled ahead in the second quarter. Australia exploded with 25 points to accumulate an 11-point lead at halftime 43:32. The Opals cleared off in the third term. They accumulated a 19-point lead at the final intermission 64:45. Brazil fought hard in the final frame. The Latin American team poured in 28 points to narrow the gap but had to surrender at the end. Suzy Batkovic-Brown (193-C-80) provided 11 points in the victory. Damiris Dantas (192-C-92) answered with 16 points for Brazil. Karla Martins (172-G-78) had 14 points in the loss.

Australia: Belinda Snell 15, Lauren Jackson 15, Suzy Batkovic-Brown 11
Brazil: Damiris Dantas 16, Karla Martins 14


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


Australia post second win over Brazil in Melbourne - by Eurobasket News

Australia - Brazil 80:73

Australia clinched the second straight win over Brazil in the Farewell Series. Belinda Snell (181-F-81) and Lauren Jackson (196-F/C-81) came up with 15 points each to lead the hosts.
The teams stayed close throughout the opening quarter. The scoreboard read 18:18 at the first intermission. The Opals pulled ahead in the second quarter. Australia exploded with 25 points to accumulate an 11-point lead at halftime 43:32. The Opals cleared off in the third term. They accumulated a 19-point lead at the final intermission 64:45. Brazil fought hard in the final frame. The Latin American team poured in 28 points to narrow the gap but had to surrender at the end. Suzy Batkovic-Brown (193-C-80) provided 11 points in the victory. Damiris Dantas (192-C-92) answered with 16 points for Brazil. Karla Martins (172-G-78) had 14 points in the loss.

Australia: Belinda Snell 15, Lauren Jackson 15, Suzy Batkovic-Brown 11
Brazil: Damiris Dantas 16, Karla Martins 14


Brazilian National Team 2012 - by Eurobasket

Starting five
#s#
Karla da Costa
da Costa
Iziane Castro Marques
Castro Marques
Clarissa Dos Santos
Dos Santos
Damiris Do Amaral
Do Amaral
Erika De Souza
De Souza
#e#5
4 Adriana Pinto 169-G-78 Basket Parma Italy
5 Karla da Costa 172-G-78 Americana Brazil
6 Chuca Ferreira 182-F/G-79 Ourinhos Brazil
7 Joice de Souza 175-G-86 Ourinhos Brazil
8 Iziane Castro Marques 182-G/F-82 Maranhao Brazil
9 Franciele Nascimento 190-C-87 Hondar.-Irun Spain
10 Silvia Valente 186-F-82 Ourinhos Brazil
11 Clarissa Dos Santos 186-C-88 Americana Brazil
12 Damiris Do Amaral 192-C-92 Real C.Vigo Spain
13 Nadia Calhado 195-C-89 Santo Andre Brazil
14 Erika De Souza 197-C-82 Atlanta D. USA
15 Jaqueline Silvestre 178-F-86 Santo Andre Brazil

Luiz Claudio Tarallo Head Coach



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


Olympic Qualifying Tournament: France opens campaign with the vicotry over Canada - by Eurobasket News

Canada-France 47:56

France opened their Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Day 2. The French side overcame Canada 56:47 and grabbed 1-0 record. Canada meanwhile finished the group stage with 1-1 record.
France opened the game with 21:11 and never looked behind after. The European team added 14-13 in the second period and enjoyed a 35:24 halftime advantage. Moreover France needed 13-12 in the third quarter to take 12-point lead entering the last stanza. Canada meanwhile won the fourth period 11-8 and reduced to the final 56:47 score.
Isabelle Yacoubou-Dehoui (190-C-86) paced all the winners with 15 points and Sandrine Gruda (193-C-87) nailed 12. Clemence Beikes (180-G-83, agency: Josep and Nicolas) scored 6, while Emilie Gomis (180-G/F-83) and Jennifer Digbeu (190-F/C-87) added 5 each. Shona Thorburn (178-G-82, college: Utah) and Tamara Tatham (185-F-85, college: Massachusetts) replied with 7 points each in the losing effort.

Canada: Shona Thorburn 7, Tamara Tatham 7
France: Isabelle Yacoubou-Dehoui 15, Sandrine Gruda 12, Clemence Beikes 6, Emilie Gomis 5, Jennifer Digbeu 5


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


Chinese National Team 2012 - by Eurobasket

Chinese National Team 2012
#s#
Nan Chen
Chen
Xiaojia Chen
Chen
Xiaoli Chen
Chen
Xin Guan
Guan
Hongpin Huang
Huang
#e#5
Chen Nan 197-C-83 Bayi China
Chen Xiaojia 177-PG-88 Jiangsu China
Chen Xiaoli 193-F-82 Liaoning China
Guan Xin 196-C-87 Guangdong China
Huang Hongpin 196-C-89 Guangdong China
Liu Dan 194-C-87 Shenyang China
Ma Zengyu 183-F-84 Liaoning China
Miao LiJie 180-G-81 Shenyang China
Song Liwei 190-F/C-85 Shenyang China
Wei Wei 206-C-89 Guangdong China
Yang BanBan 172-G-89 Liaoning China
Zhang Fan 188-F-84 Beijing China
Zhang HanLan 175-G/F-79 Shenyang China

Sun Fengwu Head Coach



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


Tarsus receive EuroLeague Women wildcard, yet to have a place in Turkish league - by Eurobasket News

Turkish Basketball Federation Board of Directors have decided to give Turkish team Tarsus a spot in EuroLeague Women thanks to a wildcard given by FIBA Europe.

Tarsus finished last season second to last in Turkish league behind the two Turkish giants and eight other teams. They are set to play for a spot in top Turkish league from September 14 to 16 in Kayseri in a play-out tournament with Istanbul Universitesi and two teams from the second league.

Tarsus have currently signed Melissa Can, Amaya Valdemoro (184-F-76, agency: Josep and Nicolas) and Cindy Lima (194-C-81, agency: Josep and Nicolas).

With number of teams willing to participate in EuroLeague Women apparently down, FIBA Europe are desperate enough to have teams that havent earned a place in ELW on the basketball courts to play in ELW. It destroys the leagues prestige, if it had any in the first place.

FIBA Europe also offered a wildcard to Polish leagues third placed team Energa Torun, who have declined it.

There having been 23 teams last season, we currently know of 15 who will play next season. Theres currently no information on Frisco Brno, VICI Aistes and Gospic COs intents to play in ELW next season.
Courtesy of: lovewomensbasketball.com


*****************************************************
  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. Lithuania3-1
2. Slovenia3-1
3. Slovakia3-1
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 5

A

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

B

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

C

Jun. 26: SLO - SVK 61-72
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. Vadja, HUN8.3 
 9. Fleisher, ISR8.3 
 10. Matic, SRB8.3 
Assists Per Game
 Jelena SKEROVIC
  MNT
  (176-G-80)
  Avg: 5.5
 1. Skerovic, MNT5.5 
 2. Dubljevic, MNT5.3 
 3. Baric, SLO5.0 
 4. Teilane-T., LAT4.8 
 5. Karklina, LAT4.3 
 6. Radocaj, SRB4.3 
 7. Bar, GER4.0 
 8. Eldebrink, SWE3.7 
 9. Kochubei, UKR3.7 
 10. Jalcova, SVK3.5 
Steals Per Game
 Romy BAR
  GER
  (189-F-87)
  Avg: 5.3
 1. Bar, GER5.3 
 2. Hatzinikolao., GRE4.0 
 3. Doron, ISR3.3 
 4. Skobel, POL3.3 
 5. Linkeviciene, LTU3.0 
 6. Ouvina, ESP3.0 
 7. Erkic, SLO2.8 
 8. Kubatova, SVK2.8 
 9. Dabovic, SRB2.7 
 10. Nagy, HUN2.7 
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. Meesseman, BEL1.3 
 7. Mesila-K., EST1.0 
 8. Kupcikova, SVK1.0 
 9. Paugaite, LTU1.0 
 10. Piekarska, POL1.0 



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


Olympic Qualifying Tournament: France opens campaign with the vicotry over Canada - by Eurobasket News

Canada-France 47:56

France opened their Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Day 2. The French side overcame Canada 56:47 and grabbed 1-0 record. Canada meanwhile finished the group stage with 1-1 record.
France opened the game with 21:11 and never looked behind after. The European team added 14-13 in the second period and enjoyed a 35:24 halftime advantage. Moreover France needed 13-12 in the third quarter to take 12-point lead entering the last stanza. Canada meanwhile won the fourth period 11-8 and reduced to the final 56:47 score.
Isabelle Yacoubou-Dehoui (190-C-86) paced all the winners with 15 points and Sandrine Gruda (193-C-87) nailed 12. Clemence Beikes (180-G-83, agency: Josep and Nicolas) scored 6, while Emilie Gomis (180-G/F-83) and Jennifer Digbeu (190-F/C-87) added 5 each. Shona Thorburn (178-G-82, college: Utah) and Tamara Tatham (185-F-85, college: Massachusetts) replied with 7 points each in the losing effort.

Canada: Shona Thorburn 7, Tamara Tatham 7
France: Isabelle Yacoubou-Dehoui 15, Sandrine Gruda 12, Clemence Beikes 6, Emilie Gomis 5, Jennifer Digbeu 5


End of French leagues third placed Challes-les-Eaux - by Eurobasket News

According to le Dauphine, on of the top French leagues teams Challes-les-Eaux is going bankrupt.

After a failed merger with Lyon, the teams owner has not found a successor.

The owner will file a request tomorrow for a bankruptcy administrator.

Under contract with the team for the next season were Joyce Cousseins-Smith (165-PG-88), Alexia Plagnard (172-G-90), Melanie Plust (173-G-89), Sara Chevaugeon (177-G-93), Romy Bar (189-F-87), Mistie Mims (191-C-83, college: Duke), Danielle Page (188-F-86, college: Nebraska), Emilija Podrug (190-C-79) (via Catch&Shoot). They will now have to look for a new team. Complicating all of it is the fact that most French teams have already set their rosters for the upcoming season.
Courtesy of: ovewomensbasketball.com


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


Samantha Prahalis sign with Ramat Chen !! - by Gil Goshen


The starter point guard of the Phoenix and the number six pick
2012 draft Samanta Prahalis signed today with Ramat Chen in Israel.
It was a long process since the player had a lot of offers and eventually
She decided to sign with one of the best team here in Israel.
In her first WNBA season Samantha has so far: 11.2 points and 5.5 ast per game and she is definitely
considered as a rookie of the year.

All-Big Ten Player of the Year -12
Big Ten Regular Season Runner-Up -12
Big Ten Tournament Semifinals -12
Associated Press NCAA All-America 2nd Team -12
USBWA NCAA All-America Team -12 Samantha Prahalis (170-PG-90, college: Ohio St.)
agent: Allison Galer.


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


Liomatic Umbertide announced D'Andra Moss - by Eurobasket News

Liomatic Umbertide announced D'Andra Moss (178-SG-88, agency: Two Points, college: VCU) for the next season. According to lovewomensbasketball.com, the American Shooting Guard moves to Italy.
Last year D'Andra Moss became a new member of Gran Canaria. The American forward signed a deal for one season. D'Andra Moss headed to Granca from Finland, where she spent 2010/11. She exploded with 25.1 ppg, 12.3 rpg and 3 apg for 32 games with Torpan Poiat Helsinki. D'Andra Moss helped her team to reach the Playoff Semifinals and was named Eurobasket.com All-Finnish League Player of the Year -11. She was the best scorer, third rebounder and fourth assistant of the competition. It was the first professional season for D'Andra Moss, who graduated last year at the Virginia Commonwealth University. She had 17.7 ppg and 6.6 rpg for her school as a senior. D'Andra Moss was a warded with All-CAA 1st Team -10.
In 2011-2012 for Gran Canaria La Caja de Canarias (Spain-LFB, starting five) she became the top-scorer of the League with 20.2ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.3apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 36.4%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 77.1%. In EuroCup her stats read 18.6ppg), 6.7rpg, 2.8apg, FGP: 26.3%, 3PT: 29.7%, FT: 76.6%.


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


Olympic Qualifying Tournament: Turkey wins Group A - by Eurobasket News

Turkey-Japan 65:49

Turkey overcame Japan in Day 2 of the Olympic Qualifying Tournament. The European team grabbed 65:49 victory and won Group A with 2-0 record.
Turkey started better and reached 16:8 at the end of the first period. The hosts did not even think of slowing down and added 20-15 in the second period for 13-point advantage at the halftime. Both teams managed to nail 16 points in the third frame as the board showed 52:39 for the Turkish team after three quarters. They added another 13-10 in the last stanza to seal the victory.
Nevriye Yilmaz (194-C-80) top-scored for the winners with 16 points and Esmeral Tuncluer (176-G-80) netted 15. Quanitra Hollingsworth (196-C-88, college: VCU) delivered 10, while Birsel Vardarli (174-G-84) scored 8. Yuka Mamiya (185-C/F-90) notched 17 and Maki Takada (183-F/C-89) added 11 in defeat.

Turkey: Nevriye Yilmaz 16, Esmeral Tuncluer 15, Quanitra Hollingsworth 10, Birsel Vardarli 8
Japan: Yuka Mamiya 17, Maki Takada 11


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


New Missouri College Program Goes Down Under For First Hoops Recruit - by Eurobasket Center

Wentworth Military College is proud to announce that 6'0 forward, Chantal Thomas (6'0''-F) has become the first player to sign a national letter of intent to play women's basketball for the Lady Red Dragons. The 2012/13 season will be the inaugural season for women's college basketball at the school. The team will compete in region 16 of the National Junior College Athletic Association. The team is coached by a former professional coach and North Carolina native John Jordan . For the last 8 years Jordan has coached national level high school teams in the Carolinas. In that time period he won over 80% of his games and sent 43 of his high school players to the college level, including 31 to the NCAA Division I level. Wentworth is going to be a great college option for girls who just need a little development to make it to the Division I level. says Jordan

Thomas, a native of Mackay, Queensland, Australia will bring an impressive resume to the Lady Red Dragon program. She has represented her province in the Australian U 18 national championships and she was the 2011 MVP of her Mackay Lady Meteorettes regional team. Wentworth head coach John Jordan had these comments about his first recruit. "Chantal was brought to my attention by Kelvin Taylor of Showtime Basketball, his organization helps Australian basketball players who want to come to the United States to attend college and play ball. Once I saw a transccript of her grades, then watched film on her, I knew she was the athlete and student we were looking for. I then visited with Chantal and her parents via a Skype video call. At that point, there was little doubt left in my mind. She was also recruited by several NCAA Division II and a few Division I schools. I was excited when she chose us. She is a 6 footer who is athletic and can run the floor. She is versatile enough where she can play the power forward or center position. Chantal is the daughter of Nigel and Elaine Thomas of Mackay. I am excited to have the opportunity to play college basketball in America and to learn from Coach Jordan. He has an excellent reputation for developing international talent said Chantal Thomas

Thomas is the first of several womens basketball signings Coach Jordan hopes to announce over the next few weeks. We have verbal commitments from several high caliber players. The geographic make up of our team will reflect the diversity of our school. We expect to sign players from Kentucky, New York, New Jersey, South Carolina, the UK and Virginia. I am still looking for another international recruit as well The Lady Red Dragons will open their season on November 2nd against the number 1 ranked NJCAA Div II team in the United States, Johnson County Community College.


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


Mali National Team 2012 - by Greg

Starting five
#s#
Nassira Traore
Traore
Adizatou Maiga
Maiga
Diana Gandega
Gandega
Fanta Guindo
Guindo
Aminata Sininta
Sininta
#e#5
4 Nassira Traore 181-F-91 Stade Tunisien Tunisia
5 Djenebou Damba 167-G-85 USFAS Mali
6 Adizatou Maiga 172-G-83 Stade Malien Mali
7 Fatoumata Bagayoko 170-G-88 Stade Malien Mali
8 Diana Gandega 171-F-83 Franconville France
9 Aminata Sissoko 162-PG-93 DAC Mali
10 Fanta Guindo 168-F/G-94 DAC Mali
11 Farima Toure 184-C-93 Stade Malien Mali
12 Djenaba Samake 179-F-85 Stade Malien Mali
13 Aminata Traore 186-C-95 DAC Mali
14 Aminata Sininta 188-F-85 USFAS Mali

Michel Perrin Head Coach Geneve Lions Switzerland



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


Mozambique National Team 2012 - by Eurobasket

Starting five
#s#
Deolinda Ngulela
Ngulela
Clarisse Machanguana
Machanguana
Catia Halar
Halar
Leia Dongue
Dongue
Iliana Ventura
Ventura
#e#5
4 Valerdina Manhonga 168-G-80 Desportivo M. Mozambique
5 Deolinda Ngulela 170-G-81 Desportivo M. Mozambique
6 Ana Azinheira 184-F-77 Desportivo M. Mozambique
7 Anabela Cossa 172-G-86 Desportivo M. Mozambique
8 Clarisse Machanguana 194-C-73 Ragusa Italy
9 Catia Halar 173-F-82 Desportivo M. Mozambique
10 Filomena Micato 168-G-86 Desportivo M. Mozambique
11 Leia Dongue 185-F/C-91 Desportivo M. Mozambique
12 Rute Muianga 175-F-83 Desportivo M. Mozambique
13 Iliana Ventura 168-G-90 A Politechnica Mozambique
14 Odelia Mafanela 180-F-89 Desportivo M. Mozambique
15 Deolinda Gimo 190-C-87 1 De Agosto Angola

Nasir Sale Head Coach Muculmana Mozambique



Olympic Qualifying Tournament: South Korea edge Mozambique - by Eurobasket News

South Korea - Mozambique 71:65

South Korea recorded the first win at the Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Ankara. They defeated Mozambique in Group C tonight. Sin Jung Ja (185-F/C-80) came up with 25 points and 11 rebounds to lead the winners. Mozambique suffered the second straight loss at the tournament.
The teams stayed close throughout the starting quarter. The scoreboard read 19:19 after ten minutes. Mozambique pulled in front in the second quarter. The African team established a 37:35 halftime advantage. South Korea however turned things around in the third period. They held Mozambique to 13 points to take a narrow 52:50 lead at the final intermission. South Korea kept the pressure growing in the final quarter. They cleared off and sealed a tough crucial win at the end. Beon Yeon-Ha (180-F-80) posted 15 points, while Kim Jung-Eun (180-F-87) added 12 points for the winners. Leia Dongue (184-F-91) answered with 16 points and 10 rebounds for Mozambique. Clarisse Machanguana (194-C-73, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: ODU) had 15 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists in defeat.

South Korea: Sin Jung Ja 25, Beon Yeon-Ha 15, Kim Jung-Eun 12
Mozambique: Leia Dongue 16+10 boards, Clarisse Machanguana 15


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


Olympic Qualifying Tournament: Argentina take down New Zealand - by Eurobasket News

Argentina - New Zealand 54:51

Argentina celebrated crucial win over New Zealand in the Olympic Games Qualifying Tournament in Ankara. They held off New Zealand to improve at 1-0 record in Group B. Erica Sanchez (184-F/C-76, agency: Players Group) came up with 16 points and 6 boards to lead the Latin American team. The Tall Ferns fell at 0-2 record after the loss.
New Zealand had their backs against the wall after the starting loss to Czech Republic. They started the game aggressively and built a 16:14 lead after ten minutes. Argentina recovered in the second quarter. They held New Zealand to 12 points to build a 32:28 halftime lead. Argentina stayed solid defensively in the third term. They stretched the margin to 6 points with one quarter remaining 43:37. New Zealand got within striking distance late in regulation but Argentina survived the threat and sealed the victory at the end. Debora Gonzalez (172-PG-90, agency: Players Group) accounted for 10 points, while Paula Reggiardo (178-F-84, agency: Players Group) added 9 points for the winners. Natalie Taylor (182-F-84, college: SE Missouri St.) responded with 19 points for New Zealand. Jillian Harmon (185-F-87, college: Stanford) had 12 points in the loss.

Argentina: Erica Sanchez 16, Debora Gonzalez 10, Paula Reggiardo 9
New Zealand: Natalie Taylor 19, Jillian Harmon 12


*****************************************************
  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. Turkey2-0
2. Japan0-1
3. P.Rico0-1
Group Qualification Gr.B
1. Argentina1-0
2. Czech Rep.1-0
3. N.Zealand0-2
Group Qualification Gr.C
1. Croatia1-0
2. S.Korea1-0
3. Mozambique.0-2
Group Qualification Gr.D
1. France1-0
2. Canada1-1
3. Mali0-1

Additional Qualifying Round: Round 2

Qual. A

Jun. 26: TUR - JPN 65-49

Qual. B

Jun. 26: NZL - ARG 51-54

Qual. C

Jun. 26: MOZ - KOR 65-71

Qual. D

Jun. 26: CAN - FRA 47-56

Additional Qualifying Round: Round 3

Qual. A

Jun. 27: JPN - PUR

Qual. B

Jun. 27: ARG - CZE

Qual. C

Jun. 27: KOR - CRO

Qual. D

Jun. 27: FRA - MLI


Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Clarisse MACHANGUANA
  MOZ
  (194-C-73)
  Avg: 19
 1. Machanguana, MOZ19.0 
 2. Taylor, NZL13.0 
 3. Dongue, MOZ12.5 
 4. Hollingswort., TUR11.5 
 5. Tuncluer, TUR10.5 
 6. Harmon, NZL10.5 
 7. Yilmaz, TUR10.0 
 8. Palazoglu, TUR9.0 
 9. Caglar, TUR7.5 
 10. Ngulela, MOZ7.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Clarisse MACHANGUANA
  MOZ
  (194-C-73)
  Avg: 10.5
 1. Machanguana, MOZ10.5 
 2. Dongue, MOZ8.0 
 3. Caglar, TUR8.0 
 4. Harmon, NZL6.5 
 5. Yilmaz, TUR6.5 
 6. Taylor, NZL6.0 
 7. Edmondson, NZL5.5 
 8. Hollingswort., TUR5.5 
 9. Ngulela, MOZ4.5 
 10. Wallbutton, NZL4.0 
Assists Per Game
 Deolinda NGULELA
  (170-G-81)
  Avg: 6
 1. Ngulela, MOZ6.0 
 2. Yilmaz, TUR4.0 
 3. Vardarli, TUR3.5 
 4. Caglar, TUR3.0 
 5. Machanguana, MOZ2.0 
 6. Tuncluer, TUR2.0 
 7. Dongue, MOZ2.0 
 8. Palazoglu, TUR2.0 
 9. Cocks, NZL2.0 
 10. Alben, TUR1.5 
Steals Per Game
 Clarisse MACHANGUANA
  MOZ
  (194-C-73)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Machanguana, MOZ2.5 
 2. Yilmaz, TUR2.0 
 3. Halar, MOZ2.0 
 4. Edmondson, NZL1.5 
 5. Taylor, NZL1.5 
 6. Harmon, NZL1.0 
 7. Palazoglu, TUR1.0 
 8. Purcell, NZL1.0 
 9. Alben, TUR1.0 
 10. Wallbutton, NZL1.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Clarisse MACHANGUANA
  MOZ
  (194-C-73)
  Avg: 0.5
 1. Machanguana, MOZ0.5 
 2. Azinheira, MOZ0.5 
 3. Yilmaz, TUR0.5 
 4. Harmon, NZL0.5 
 5. Edmondson, NZL0.5 
 6. Horasan, TUR0.5 
 7. Hollingswort., TUR0.0 
 8. Dongue, MOZ0.0 
 9. Dalgalar, TUR0.0 
 10. Ngulela, MOZ0.0 


Olympic Qualifying Tournament. Results and Stats from Day 2 in Ankara - by Eurobasket News

Group A
Turkey - Japan 65-49
Turkey overcame Japan in Day 2 of the Olympic Qualifying Tournament. The European team grabbed 65:49 victory and won Group A with 2-0 record. Turkey started better and reached 16:8 at the end of the first period. The hosts did not even think of slowing down and added 20-15 in the second period for 13-point advantage at the halftime. Both teams managed to nail 16 points in the third frame as the board showed 52:39 for the Turkish team after three quarters. They added another 13-10 in the last stanza to seal the victory. Yilmaz top-scored for the winners with 16 points and Esmeral Tuncluer (176-G-80) netted 15. Quanitra Hollingsworth (196-C-88, college: VCU) delivered 10, while Birsel Vardarli (174-G-84) scored 8. Yuka Mamiya (185-C/F-90) notched 17 and TAKADA added 11 in defeat.

Group B
New Zealand - Argentina 51-54
Argentina celebrated crucial win over New Zealand in the Olympic Games Qualifying Tournament in Ankara. They held off New Zealand to improve at 1-0 record in Group B. Erica Sanchez (184-F/C-76, agency: Players Group) came up with 16 points and 6 boards to lead the Latin American team. The Tall Ferns fell at 0-2 record after the loss. New Zealand had their backs against the wall after the starting loss to Czech Republic. They started the game aggressively and built a 16:14 lead after ten minutes. Argentina recovered in the second quarter. They held New Zealand to 12 points to build a 32:28 halftime lead. Argentina stayed solid defensively in the third term. They stretched the margin to 6 points with one quarter remaining 43:37. New Zealand got within striking distance late in regulation but Argentina survived the threat and sealed the victory at the end. Debora Gonzalez accounted for 10 points, while Paula Reggiardo (178-F-84, agency: Players Group) added 9 points for the winners. Natalie Taylor (182-F-84, college: SE Missouri St.) responded with 19 points for New Zealand. Jillian Harmon (185-F-87, college: Stanford) had 12 points in the loss.

Group C
Mozambique - South Korea 65-71
South Korea recorded the first win at the Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Ankara. They defeated Mozambique in Group C tonight. Sin Jung Ja came up with 25 points and 11 rebounds to lead the winners. Mozambique suffered the second straight loss at the tournament. The teams stayed close throughout the starting quarter. The scoreboard read 19:19 after ten minutes. Mozambique pulled in front in the second quarter. The African team established a 37:35 halftime advantage. South Korea however turned things around in the third period. They held Mozambique to 13 points to take a narrow 52:50 lead at the final intermission. South Korea kept the pressure growing in the final quarter. They cleared off and sealed a tough crucial win at the end. Beon Yeon-Ha posted 15 points, while Kim Jung-Eun (180-F-87) added 12 points for the winners. Leia Dongue answered with 16 points and 10 rebounds for Mozambique. Clarisse Machanguana had 15 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists in defeat.

Group D
Canada - France 47-56
France opened their Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Day 2. The French side overcame Canada 56:47 and grabbed 1-0 record. Canada meanwhile finished the group stage with 1-1 record. France opened the game with 21:11 and never looked behind after. The European team added 14-13 in the second period and enjoyed a 35:24 halftime advantage. Moreover France needed 13-12 in the third quarter to take 12-point lead entering the last stanza. Canada meanwhile won the fourth period 11-8 and reduced to the final 56:47 score. Isabelle Yacoubou-Dehoui (190-C-86) paced all the winners with 15 points and Sandrine Gruda (193-C-87) nailed 12. BEIKES scored 6, while Gomis and Jennifer Digbeu (190-F/C-87) added 5 each. THORBURN and TATHAM replied with 7 points each in the losing effort.


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


Riga Stradins University edged Russia NT - by Eurobasket News

Russia - RSU 68:72

Riga Stradins University edged Russia NT in a friendly game between two sides. The male representatives grabbed 72:68 win Jurmala, Latvia. The second game will also be played on Thursday.
Latvia grabbed 16:9 lead in the opening tip and won the first period 26:17. They had 35:27 with 5 minutes left in the first half and enjoyed 42:33 halftime advantage. In the third period Latvian team led 53:44, but the national team reduced to 64:60 with 10 minutes remaining. Russia trailed 68:64 with 5 minutes to go and finished with the same difference at the end.
Ivars Ikstens (184-G-90) led the way with 13 points and Juris Sapovalovs (198-F) added 12. Marcis Benefelds (189-G), Svens Vilks (204-PF-92) and Kristaps Jurjans (203-C-88) delivered 10 apiece. Elena Danilochkina (186-G-86) top-scored for the women with 11 points, while Olga Arteshina (189-F-82) and Anna Petrakova (189-PF-84) had 10 each.

Russia: Elena Danilochkina 11, Olga Arteshina 10, Anna Petrakova 10
RSU: Ivars Ikstens 13, Juris Sapovalovs 12, Marcis Benefelds 10, Svens Vilks 10, Kristaps Jurjans 10


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


Mina Maksimovic signed with REIMS (FR) - by Tamara Ruzic

Mina Maksimovic (190-F/C-83) will continue her career in french club Reims. Last season, Maksimovic played for Etoile de Voiron, but didnt get to play as she was injured for the half of the season. Maksimovic also played for Serbian teams: KK Sumadija, Kovin, Partizan, Vodovac; Hungarian teams: Szolnok, Szekszard, BSE; Italian club Umbertide; Turkish Burhaniye and French Voiron. She also played for all national selections for Serbia.


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


Slovakia shoot down Slovenia in Ljubljana - by Eurobasket News

Slovenia - Slovakia 61:72

Slovenia registered the third win at the 2013 EuroBasket Qualifying Round Group C. They held off Slovenia in Ljubljana to improve at 3-1 record in the ladder. Ivana Jalcova (182-G-83) scored 15 points to lead the visitors. Slovenia suffered the first defeat and also appeared at 3-1 record.
Slovakia grabbed an early lead. They were up by 8 points after ten minutes 24:16. Slovenia cut the deficit in the second quarter. They got within 3 points at halftime 35:38. Slovakia boosted the gap in the third frame. They ensured a 58:50 advantage with one quarter to go. Slovakia did not slow down and raced to a confident win at the end. Romana Vynuchalova (192-C/F-86, college: Penn St.) posted 14 points, while Lucia Kupcikova (184-F-84) added 10 points for the winners. Sandra Pirsic (195-C-84) answered with 25 points and 11 rebounds for Slovenia. Eva Komplet (182-F/C-86) had 10 points in the loss.

Slovenia: Sandra Pirsic 25+11 boards, Eva Komplet 10
Slovakia: Ivana Jalcova 15, Romana Vynuchalova 14, Lucia Kupcikova 10


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


Slovakia shoot down Slovenia in Ljubljana - by Eurobasket News

Slovenia - Slovakia 61:72

Slovenia registered the third win at the 2013 EuroBasket Qualifying Round Group C. They held off Slovenia in Ljubljana to improve at 3-1 record in the ladder. Ivana Jalcova (182-G-83) scored 15 points to lead the visitors. Slovenia suffered the first defeat and also appeared at 3-1 record.
Slovakia grabbed an early lead. They were up by 8 points after ten minutes 24:16. Slovenia cut the deficit in the second quarter. They got within 3 points at halftime 35:38. Slovakia boosted the gap in the third frame. They ensured a 58:50 advantage with one quarter to go. Slovakia did not slow down and raced to a confident win at the end. Romana Vynuchalova (192-C/F-86, college: Penn St.) posted 14 points, while Lucia Kupcikova (184-F-84) added 10 points for the winners. Sandra Pirsic (195-C-84) answered with 25 points and 11 rebounds for Slovenia. Eva Komplet (182-F/C-86) had 10 points in the loss.

Slovenia: Sandra Pirsic 25+11 boards, Eva Komplet 10
Slovakia: Ivana Jalcova 15, Romana Vynuchalova 14, Lucia Kupcikova 10


*****************************************************
  SOUTH KOREA   

WKBL Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Jung-Eun KIM
  Cool Cats
  (180-F-87)
  Avg: 17.7
 1. Kim, Cool Cats17.7 
 2. Kim, S-Birds15.5 
 3. Sin, Winnus15.3 
 4. Jung, KB Stars15.2 
 5. Kim, Cool Cats15.2 
 6. Lee, S-Birds15.0 
 7. Han, Winnus14.1 
 8. Beon, KB Stars14.0 
 9. Cho, Winnus13.6 
 10. Lee, Bichumi13.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jung-Ja SIN
  Winnus
  (185-C/F-80)
  Avg: 12.4
 1. Sin, Winnus12.4 
 2. Heo, Cool Cats8.9 
 3. Kang, S-Birds8.5 
 4. Jung, KB Stars7.7 
 5. Bae, Woori Hansae6.8 
 6. Park, Bichumi5.9 
 7. Lee, Bichumi5.9 
 8. Roberson, Bichumi5.9 
 9. Kim, Bichumi5.7 
 10. Kim, S-Birds5.7 
Assists Per Game
 Mi Sun LEE
  Bichumi
  (175-G-79)
  Avg: 7
 1. Lee, Bichumi7.0 
 2. Kim, Cool Cats6.4 
 3. Choi, S-Birds6.1 
 4. Beon, KB Stars5.0 
 5. Park, Bichumi4.8 
 6. Sin, Winnus4.0 
 7. Kim, S-Birds3.7 
 8. Heo, Cool Cats3.7 
 9. Lee, Winnus3.7 
 10. Kang, S-Birds3.0 
Steals Per Game
 Mi Sun LEE
  Bichumi
  (175-G-79)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Lee, Bichumi2.4 
 2. Han, Winnus2.3 
 3. Roberson, Bichumi1.6 
 4. Choi, S-Birds1.5 
 5. Beon, KB Stars1.5 
 6. Lee, S-Birds1.3 
 7. Jung, KB Stars1.3 
 8. Bae, Woori Hansae1.1 
 9. Heo, Cool Cats1.1 
 10. Park, Bichumi1.1 
Blocks Per Game
 Jung-Ja SIN
  Winnus
  (185-C/F-80)
  Avg: 1.5
 1. Sin, Winnus1.5 
 2. Jung, KB Stars1.4 
 3. Kang, S-Birds1.1 
 4. Kim, S-Birds1.1 
 5. Gang, Cool Cats1.1 
 6. Yang, Woori Hansae0.8 
 7. Kim, Cool Cats0.8 
 8. Bae, Woori Hansae0.8 
 9. Heo, Cool Cats0.7 
 10. Ha, S-Birds0.6 


South Korean National Team 2012 - by Eurobasket

South Korean National Team 2012
#s#
Yoon-Ah Choi
Choi
Yeon-Ha Beon
Beon
Young-Suk Kang
Kang
Jung-Eun Kim
Kim
Jung-Ja Sin
Sin
#e#5
4 Kim Bo-Mi 178-F/G-86 Winnus South Korea
5 Kim Ji-Yoon 170-G-76 Cool Cats South Korea
6 Choi Yoon-Ah 169-G-85 S-Birds South Korea
7 Han Chae-Jin 174-G/F-84 Winnus South Korea
8 Lee Youn-Hoa 178-F-83 S-Birds South Korea
9 Jung Sun-Hwa 184-C/F-85 KB Stars South Korea
10 Beon Yeon-Ha 180-F-80 KB Stars South Korea
11 Kang Young-Suk 186-C-81 S-Birds South Korea
12 Ha Eun-Joo 201-C-83 S-Birds South Korea
13 Kim Jung-Eun 180-F-87 Cool Cats South Korea
14 Bae Hye-Yoon 182-F/C-89 Woori Hansae South Korea
15 Sin Jung-Ja 185-C/F-80 Winnus South Korea

Lee Ho-Kun Head Coach



Olympic Qualifying Tournament: South Korea edge Mozambique - by Eurobasket News

South Korea - Mozambique 71:65

South Korea recorded the first win at the Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Ankara. They defeated Mozambique in Group C tonight. Sin Jung Ja (185-F/C-80) came up with 25 points and 11 rebounds to lead the winners. Mozambique suffered the second straight loss at the tournament.
The teams stayed close throughout the starting quarter. The scoreboard read 19:19 after ten minutes. Mozambique pulled in front in the second quarter. The African team established a 37:35 halftime advantage. South Korea however turned things around in the third period. They held Mozambique to 13 points to take a narrow 52:50 lead at the final intermission. South Korea kept the pressure growing in the final quarter. They cleared off and sealed a tough crucial win at the end. Beon Yeon-Ha (180-F-80) posted 15 points, while Kim Jung-Eun (180-F-87) added 12 points for the winners. Leia Dongue (184-F-91) answered with 16 points and 10 rebounds for Mozambique. Clarisse Machanguana (194-C-73, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: ODU) had 15 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists in defeat.

South Korea: Sin Jung Ja 25, Beon Yeon-Ha 15, Kim Jung-Eun 12
Mozambique: Leia Dongue 16+10 boards, Clarisse Machanguana 15


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


Olympic Qualifying Tournament: Turkey wins Group A - by Eurobasket News

Turkey-Japan 65:49

Turkey overcame Japan in Day 2 of the Olympic Qualifying Tournament. The European team grabbed 65:49 victory and won Group A with 2-0 record.
Turkey started better and reached 16:8 at the end of the first period. The hosts did not even think of slowing down and added 20-15 in the second period for 13-point advantage at the halftime. Both teams managed to nail 16 points in the third frame as the board showed 52:39 for the Turkish team after three quarters. They added another 13-10 in the last stanza to seal the victory.
Nevriye Yilmaz (194-C-80) top-scored for the winners with 16 points and Esmeral Tuncluer (176-G-80) netted 15. Quanitra Hollingsworth (196-C-88, college: VCU) delivered 10, while Birsel Vardarli (174-G-84) scored 8. Yuka Mamiya (185-C/F-90) notched 17 and Maki Takada (183-F/C-89) added 11 in defeat.

Turkey: Nevriye Yilmaz 16, Esmeral Tuncluer 15, Quanitra Hollingsworth 10, Birsel Vardarli 8
Japan: Yuka Mamiya 17, Maki Takada 11


Tarsus receive EuroLeague Women wildcard, yet to have a place in Turkish league - by Eurobasket News

Turkish Basketball Federation Board of Directors have decided to give Turkish team Tarsus a spot in EuroLeague Women thanks to a wildcard given by FIBA Europe.

Tarsus finished last season second to last in Turkish league behind the two Turkish giants and eight other teams. They are set to play for a spot in top Turkish league from September 14 to 16 in Kayseri in a play-out tournament with Istanbul Universitesi and two teams from the second league.

Tarsus have currently signed Melissa Can, Amaya Valdemoro (184-F-76, agency: Josep and Nicolas) and Cindy Lima (194-C-81, agency: Josep and Nicolas).

With number of teams willing to participate in EuroLeague Women apparently down, FIBA Europe are desperate enough to have teams that havent earned a place in ELW on the basketball courts to play in ELW. It destroys the leagues prestige, if it had any in the first place.

FIBA Europe also offered a wildcard to Polish leagues third placed team Energa Torun, who have declined it.

There having been 23 teams last season, we currently know of 15 who will play next season. Theres currently no information on Frisco Brno, VICI Aistes and Gospic COs intents to play in ELW next season.
Courtesy of: lovewomensbasketball.com


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

Standings

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

Regular Season: Round 16

Jun. 26: Tulsa S. - L.Angeles S. 91-75
Jun. 24: Seattle S. - Washington M. 72-55
Jun. 24: L.Angeles S. - S.Antonio SS 71-91
Jun. 26: Washington M. - Seattle S. 71-79
Jun. 26: Atlanta D. - Indiana F. 70-58
Jun. 24: New York L. - Atlanta D. 64-74

Regular Season: Round 17

Jun. 27: Chicago S. - Indiana F.
Jun. 27: Minnesota L. - Phoenix M.
Jun. 28: S.Antonio SS - L.Angeles S.


Victoria Dunlap and Seattle Storm part ways - by Eurobasket News

Victoria Dunlap (6'1''-F-89, college: Kentucky) and Seattle Storm part ways as the player left the team. It is expected that the squad will add Russian player to the roster.
Last year Optimum TED Ankara Kolejliler came up with another signing. The Turkish outfit penned a one-year deal with Victoria Dunlap. For 6 games so far this season Dunlap averages 1.8 points, 1.8 rebounds and 1.2 assist.
She graduated at the University of Kentucky. Dunlap had 17 ppg and 8.7 rpg for her school as a senior. She was awarded with All-SEC Defensive Player of the Year -11. In 2010, Dunlap was named Associated Press NCAA All-America 3rd Team. She had 18.1 ppg, 8.4 rpg, 1.4 apg and 3.1 spg that season. Dunlap paced Kentucky for NIT Elite Eight in 2008.
The end of season 2012 she spent with Hapoel Rishon Le-Zion and averaged 13.8ppg, 8.9rpg, 1.8apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 44.9%, FT: 71.7%.
In 5 games for the Storm Victoria Dunlap had 2.6 points per game.