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

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Men News

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



Liga A 2012/13 season - by Facundo Iatzky

After the championship of pearol in 2011/12 season teams are already thinking in next season.
These will be the 16 teams that will participate with their head coaches confirmed:

Argentino Junin: Adrian capelli
Atenas cordoba: Alejandro Lotterio
boca Juniors: Nestor Garcia
BB Estudiantes: Pablo Coleffi
Gimnasia comodoro: Marcelo Richotti
Sionista Parana: Sebastian Svetliza
La union Formosa: Gonzalo Garcia
Lanus: Silvio Santander
Libertad Sunchales: Javier Bianchelli
Obras sanitarias: have not defined the coach yet. julio Lamas will not continue because he will be full time head coach of national team from now.
Olimpico La banda: fernando Duro
Penarol Mar del plata: Sergio Hernandez
Asociacion Quimsa: Fabio Demti
Regatas Corrientes: Nicolas Casalanguida
9 de julio rio tercero: Sebastian Gonzalez
Union Progresista: Jorge Lobera


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


Boomers Perth Camp - by Hugh McAuliffe

The Australian Boomers are getting down to business in Perth this week. Olympic business.

With just 51 days now left until the opening of the London Games, the majority of the Boomers squad is now at the teams first training camp for 2012 in Perth.

While head coach Brett Brown and former Melbourne Tigers star Patty Mills are still on playoff duties with their NBA team in America and a number of our European-based players are missing from Camp One, there is still a plethora of talent on the floor in Perth - including some NBL stars - and the competition is reportedly fierce.

Already there have been bodies flying around the pine, with Sydney Kings centre Julian Khazzouh spilling some claret after an errant elbow according to The West Australian.

Its not surprising that, even in the physical absence of the head coach, the intensity is high. Brown may not be on the floor in Perth but he is watching every move Big Brother style over the internet as well as getting updates from the man filling his shoes currently, Andrej Lemanis of the New Zealand Breakers.

Camp One is also traditionally crucial for those players on the Olympic bubble to cement their chances of making the Games team.

One bad session at camp could mean another long, four-year wait for the chance to be called an Olympian. Even for those players considered by some as a lock for a London berth, it is critical to have a good camp as this Boomers squad has some serious depth.

Perhaps nowhere will the competition for spots be more fierce than at the guard spots. Whilst Mills would seem to be a likely selection as the starting point guard and international star Joe Ingles a good shot at being the starting two-man, the roles of back-ups remain up for grabs and a number of NBL players are right in that mix.

Adam Gibson of the Gold Coast Blaze and Damian Martin of the Perth Wildcats have been regulars in the Boomers squad for a number of years and will figure heavily in calculations, although Martin has been hampered by an ankle injury in recent weeks.

Townsville Crocodiles veteran Peter Crawford is probably an outsider for a back-up slot, but impressed in Boomers camp last year and has had a strong NBL season with the Crocs.

Perhaps surprisingly to those who arent familiar with his game, young Australian college star Matthew Dellavedova is also in serious contention to nab the back-up point guard role. Dellavedova has been a standout for St Marys College in California (coincidentally the same college Mills attended) and has reportedly impressed with his selfless attitude always a plus in a one-man.

NBL Rookie of the Year Anatoly Bose of the Sydney Kings is also in camp in Perth and under consideration for a guard spot as is another college star, Hugh Greenwood.
The first hurdle for those currently in Perth is gaining selection for the YouYi Games, a three-match international friendly series against Asian rivals China to be played in Western Australia from 9 to 13 June.

Whilst the team for that series wont be identical to the one that will play in London, when it is announced it will be the best indicator yet of which players have impressed in camp and which will have to content themselves with watching London on TV.

Every year there are inevitably one or two players that were considered outsiders at best who manage to impress the coaching staff enough to move into serious calculations for selection. It remains to be just who those players are in 2012.

It should make the next few days prior to the teams announcement at the end of the week all the more interesting in Perth. They may just need to break out a jumbo sized blood bin.

The YouYi Games: tips off in Perth on Saturday, 9 June at 2pm at Challenge Stadium. The series then moves to the Albany Leisure and Aquatic Centre on Monday 11 June at 7pm, before concluding on Wednesday 13 June at Challenge Stadium at 8pm. For more information on the YouYi Series and tickets visit: www.youyigames.com.

AUSTRALIAN BOOMERS SQUAD, PERTH CAMP
David BARLOW / 205cm / Forward / 22-10-1983 / Murcia (Spain)
Aron BAYNES / 208cm / Centre / 9-12-1986 / Ikaros Kallitheas (Greece)
Anatoly BOSE / 200cm / Guard-Forward / 6-12-1988 / Sydney Kings (NBL)
Ryan BROEKHOFF / 201cm / Guard-Forward / 23-8-1990 / Valparaiso (US College)
Peter CRAWFORD / 193cm / Guard-Forward / 6-11-1979 / Townsville Crocodiles (NBL)
Matthew DELLAVEDOVA / 193cm / Guard / 8-9-1990 / St Mary's (US College)
Anthony DRMIC / 196cm / Guard / 25-2-1992 / Boise State (US College)
Cody ELLIS / 203cm / Forward / 24-4-1990 / Saint Louis (US College)
Adam GIBSON / 188cm / Guard / 30-10-1986 / Gold Coast Blaze (NBL)
Hugh GREENWOOD / 190cm / Guard / 6-3-1992 / New Mexico (US College)
Greg HIRE / 198cm / Forward / 19-9-1987 / Perth Wildcats (NBL)
Julian KHAZZOUH / 209cm / Centre / 23-2-1986 / Sydney Kings (NBL)
Daniel KICKERT / 208cm / Forward / 29-3-1983 / PGE Turow (Poland)
Damian MARTIN / 188cm / Guard / 2-9-1984 / Perth Wildcats (NBL)
Brock MOTUM / 206cm / Forward / 16-10-1990 / Washington State (US College)
Matt NIELSEN / 208cm / Forward / 3-2-1978 / BC Khimki (Russia)
Jesse WAGSTAFF / 203cm / Forward / 3-4-1986 / Perth Wildcats (NBL)
Mark WORTHINGTON / 202cm / Forward / 8-6-1983 / Gold Coast Blaze (NBL)


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  BELGIUM   

Stats Leaders - Division I

Points Per Game
 Christopher COPELAND
  Aalstar
  (203-F-84)
  Avg: 21.8
 1. Copeland, Aalstar21.8 
 2. Bostic, Liege16.7 
 3. Mallet, Spirou15.0 
 4. Lojeski, Oostende14.4 
 5. Haynes, Gent14.1 
 6. Taylor, M.Hainaut13.9 
 7. Black, Antwerp13.7 
 8. Love, Verviers-Pep.13.3 
 9. Jenkins, Gent13.0 
 10. Freeman, Leuven12.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jason LOVE
  Verviers-Pep.
  (206-F/C-87)
  Avg: 8.7
 1. Love, Verviers-Pep.8.7 
 2. Brown, Gent7.9 
 3. Mejri, Antwerp7.8 
 4. Merriex, Verviers.7.1 
 5. Young, Aalstar7.1 
 6. McLean, Leuven6.8 
 7. Mukubu, Verviers.6.8 
 8. Jackson, Aalstar6.3 
 9. Maras, M.Hainaut6.0 
 10. Booker, Oostende5.8 
Assists Per Game
 Dominic WATERS
  Liege
  (185-PG-86)
  Avg: 4.1
 1. Waters, Liege4.1 
 2. Bosco, Gent3.4 
 3. Djordjevic, Ooste.3.4 
 4. Marnegrave, Leuven3.4 
 5. Black, Antwerp3.0 
 6. Steinbach, Aalstar2.9 
 7. Slaughter, M.Hai.2.9 
 8. Mallet, Spirou2.7 
 9. Thompson, Verviers.2.6 
 10. Bostic, Liege2.6 
Steals Per Game
 Adeola DAGUNDURO
  Leuven
  (196-G-86)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Dagunduro, Leuven2.5 
 2. Mukubu, Verviers.2.2 
 3. Black, Antwerp2.0 
 4. Hopkins, Antwerp2.0 
 5. Bosco, Gent2.0 
 6. Wilson, Antwerp1.8 
 7. Mallet, Spirou1.8 
 8. Muya, Liege1.7 
 9. Maras, M.Hainaut1.6 
 10. Haynes, Gent1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Salah MEJRI
  Antwerp
  (216-C-86)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Mejri, Antwerp2.5 
 2. Riddick, Spirou1.8 
 3. Jennings, Liege1.5 
 4. Love, Verviers-Pep.0.9 
 5. Booker, Oostende0.8 
 6. Young, Aalstar0.8 
 7. Nivins, M.Hainaut0.6 
 8. Holiday, Aalstar0.5 
 9. De Zeeuw, Verviers.0.5 
 10. Vaughn, Antwerp0.5 


Interview with Spirou's Chris Hill - by Ozell Wells

Eurobasket had the pleasure of chatting with Spirou's Christopher Hill (191-G-83, college: Michigan St.), court-side for a brief post game wrap up deeply entrenched in the Ethias League Finals. The internationally experienced American swing man was able to share his thoughts and insights on being a veteran floor leader and the savvy sage or wise-man of all things Belgium Ethias League.

EU: How have you found this season in the Ethias legue?
CH: This has been an interesting season in Belgium, especially for our team. The club has won the past 4 titles (I've been a part of 2), so we have a high level of expectation for ourselves. We started off strong, but after our Euroleague season, we lost our point guard and leading scorer, Demond Mallet to Maccabi, so that changed the dynamic of our team a lot. I think we grew as a team during that period, although we faced a lot of adversity during that time. Eventually Demond came back, which was another adjustment to find the chemistry and re-shift roles again, and we've had to battle our way through the end of the regular season and the playoffs to get back to the finals.

EU: Being a veteran of a variety of countries, from Turkey to France and now Belgium for the past few season. Where would you rank Belgian basketball? Where do you see it going in the near future?
CH: I think Belgium has a solid league. For the most part, the teams perform well in all European competitions, which shows that the top tier teams are very competitive. I would like to see some changes to the schedule, because in my opinion with only 9 teams, the season runs too long. There is also a challenge of improving the development of the younger talented players in Belgium...I think the league is trying to take steps to improve in this area, but there can certainly be more Belgium players playing at higher levels.

EU: Now seeing that your experience ranges from NBA summer lg to time with the US National Team, how have you been able to translate that into successes in Europe?
CH: I have been very fortunate to have some amazing basketball experiences. Although I've never played for an NBA team, I've always played with/against high-caliber players and teams. I think experiences like playing with the US National team or at Michigan State have helped me because I'm never intimidated by which teams or players I'm playing against. I know what I've accomplished and I know what I'm capable of, so I make it my job to play the game right way, regardless of where or who I'm playing against.

EU: We also see that you played for one of the best basketball coaches in the world in Tom Izzo at Michigan State University. How do you see playing in such a well organized program shaping the career that you have had thus far?
CH: I learned so much from playing for Coach Izzo and in a system like Michigan State. No where in my professional career have I had to deal with the kind of pressure and demanding level of expectations that I played with at State. And as a basketball player, I learned how to play at an incredibly intense level, which still maintaining poise and control...because no matter how intense the game gets, you have to be able to think the game and play smart. That's what playing for Tom Izzo teaches you.

EU: What are your thoughts on Oostende, with the Finals sitting at 2-1 and in their favor? What are some keys that you think need be focused on to turn the tide in your favor going into Game 4 tomorrow?
CH: Oostende is a very talented, well-coached basketball team. While the first 3 games have been very close, they've come out with 2 victories because they took advantage of mistakes that we made. It's a matchup of two very good teams, and when the game comes down to one or two possessions, the team that makes plays and fewer mistakes will win the game. If we eliminate some of our mistakes and lapses, and I think we will be heading to Oostende for the 5th and final game.

EU: With not only your shooting ability, you have also displayed a quickness on defense and superb defensive skills, you have also shown a very lethal pull up while in transition, which you have been shooting above the outstretched arms of defenders. With the defenders backing up and being caught off guard and needing to recover to you, it has allowed you to become a mainstay here in Belgium. Do you have any thoughts on that? Who was the impetus for you perfecting the move?
CH: I just try to stay aggressive. Defensively, I know I'm not the quickest or most athletic guard on the floor a lot of the time, so I know have to be smart about my positioning and being in the right places. My greatest skill as a basketball player is my ability to shoot, especially from long range. But I have to be aggressive by getting to the basket, which will keep the defense honest and give me more space to take my outside shot.

EU: How does it feel to be entrusted with the ball in the most crucial of times on the floor? What types of things do you do to mentally prepare for that? Any pre-game ritual?
CH: It's a position that I've always been in. I think it goes back to being able to be make the right plays and decisions, regardless of the time, pressure, or situation. There's not any secret to being prepared for that...it's just about taking your responsibility as a guard and a leader, and being focused in the moment. It doesn't mean you'll always make or even take the last shot...but you want to put yourself or your teammates in the best situation possible, especially in the crucial moments of the game.

EU: Having been to the Finals in Belgium in the past, and facing a must win situation, what are your intial thoughts?
CH: This is the first time we've faced elimination in the finals. But honestly, I'm excited about it. We have a ton of experience on our team, with players that know what it takes to win championships. This is a different kind of challenge for us. We know we're playing a very good team, who is hungry to win their first championship in some time. But I like where we are and I think we will respond tonight.

EU: What can we expect of you in the season to come? Is there any desired port of call for you?
CH: At this point, I have no idea what the future holds for next season. I'm just thankful that I am able to play right now, in another finals with this team. I will worry about those things once this season is finished...right now I just want to win a championship!

EU: Any thing to say to your fans, both here in Belgium and Stateside?
CH: I just appreciate everyone's support. I've always had great support and love from fans both here in Europe and back home. I'm very lucky to have the opportunity to play basketball for a living, and I know it won't last forever...but the fans and support make it a very special ride!


Charleroi forces decisive Game Five against Oostende - by Eurobasket News

Finals, Game 4: Spirou - Oostende 70-65 (2-2)

Fourth game of the Belgian league Finals between Charleroi and Oostende just ended. The hosts celebrated 70-65 victory and tied the score to 2-2 in the series. It means that Charleroi forced decisive Game Five which will be played on Friday. Oostende will be the host.
Oostende was trailing by 9 points at halftime but managed to get 5-point lead after three quarters before a 22-12 charge of Spirou Charleroi, which allowed them to win the game. They made 32-of-36 free shots (88.9 percent) during the game, while Oostende only scored eleven points from the stripe. 30 personal fouls committed by Oostende helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a great performance of American guard Demond Mallet (186-78, college: McNeese St., agency: Higher Vision Sports) who helped to win the game recording 14 points (made all of his eight free throws). Georgian forward Tornike Shengelia (207-91) contributed with 10 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Serbian guard Dusan Djordjevic (195-83, agency: Beo Basket) replied with 11 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists and American forward Kennedy Winston (198-84, college: Alabama) added 9 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists in the effort for Oostende. Oostende's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help.
Oostende was the regular season champion in Belgium. Charleroi was No.3 in regular season, despite they had the same record as Oostende and second ranked Antwerp (23-9). Charleroi is the defending champ from the last season. Actually, the team won last four titles in Belgium.

Spirou: D.Mallet 14+4reb+3ast, T.Shengelia 10+9reb+1ast, C.Hill 10+5reb, C.Green 9+5reb+1ast, C.Beghin 8+5reb+1ast, A.Riddick 6+6reb
Oostende: B.Wright 14+5reb, D.Djordjevic 11+5reb+6ast, Q.Serron 9+5reb, M.Lojeski 9+4reb+2ast, K.Winston 9+6reb+4ast, D.Drobnjak 8+5reb+1ast


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


Brazil edge Mexico in Caracas - by Eurobasket News

Brazil - Mexico 71:67

Brazil celebrated victory on the final day of Super 4 Cup tournament in Caracas. They defeated Mexico to improve at 1-2 record. Mineiro Ferreira (208-C/F-88) and Leonardo Klassman (209-C-89) accounted for 11 points each to lead Brazil.
Brazil strongly entered the game. They secured a 24:13 lead ten minutes into the game. The margin grew deeper throughout the second quarter. Brazil accumulated a 38:19 lead at the interval. Mexico tried to turn the tables in the third quarter. They narrowed the deficit at 12-point mark before Brazil restored a 17-point lead 56:39 heading into the fourth quarter. Mexico did not surrender as they went on a massive run to cut the distance to just three points 64:67 with just over a minute remaining. Brody Angey put Mexico within two points 67:69 with seconds left but Brazil answered with a bucket and sealed the victory. Rafael Freire (188-PG-92) and Vitor Benite (190-F/G-90) scored 9 points each for the winners. Victor Mariscal (198-F-72) answered with 14 points for Mexico. Brody Angley (180-PG-86, agency: JEMsports, college: Santa Clara) finished with 12 points in the loss.

Brazil: Mineiro Ferreira 11, Leonardo Klassman 11, Rafael Freire 9, Vitor Benite 9
Mexico: Victor Mariscal 14, Brody Angley 12


Aluisio Xavier Ferreira named Vivo/Franca head coach - by Eurobasket News

Aluisio Xavier Ferreira has been appointed Vivo/Franca head coach. He will replace Helio Rubens on the bridge. Aluisio Xavier Ferreira has lately worked with Uniceub/BRB. Latinbasket.com named the specialist All-Brazilian League Coach of the Year in 2010. He led his team to the Liga Sudamericana, Liga Americas and NBB titles. Previously Aluisio Xavier Ferreira had stints with Hebraica, Palmeiras, Corinthians, Ribeirao. He was trumped Paulista League Coach of the Year in 2002 and 2003. Also Ferreira got All-Brazilian Coach of the Year title in 2002 and 2003. He guided Brazilian National Team in 2003/07 seasons after working as assistant coach in 2002. Aluisio Xavier Ferreira has the experience working with Brazilian Junior National Team in 1998/2000.


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


Bulgarian National Team 2012 - by Eurobasket Center

Bulgarian National Team 2012
#s#
Nikolay Varbanov
Varbanov
Nikolay Kolev
Kolev
Stanislav Vaklinov
Vaklinov
Hristo Nikolov
Nikolov
Aleksandar Yanev
Yanev
#e#5
Nikolay Varbanov 209-C-85 Kalev/Cramo Estonia
Nikolay Kolev 204-F/C-88 Cherno More Bulgaria
Stanislav Vaklinov 207-PF-89 Rilski Sportist Bulgaria
Hristo Nikolov 200-F-85 Szolnok Hungary
Aleksandar Yanev 203-F-90 Cherno More Bulgaria
Pavel Marinov 197-G-88 Lukoil Academik Bulgaria
Martin Durchev 200-G-87 Tundja Yambol Bulgaria
Hristo Zahariev 200-G/F-90 Rilski Sportist Bulgaria
Chavdar Kostov 196-G-88 Levski Sofia Bulgaria
Filip Videnov 196-F/G-80 Olin Edirne Turkey
Ivan Lilov 196-F/G-88 Feni Indistrija FYR Macedonia
Tihomir Zhelev 192-G-90 Cherno More Bulgaria
Bozhidar Avramov 196-G-90 Lukoil Academik Bulgaria
Julian Radionov 188-G-79 Tundja Yambol Bulgaria
Stanimir Marinov 191-G-91 Balkan Bulgaria



Kavala brings in Simeon Iliev and Jimmie Hunt for tryout - by Eurobasket News

Simeon Iliev (202-F-89, agency: Interperformances) and Jimmie Hunt (187-G-82, agency: Interperformances, college: Franklin Pierce) will spend next five days on tryout in Kavala, according to Bulgarian media. Both players spent this season with Cherno More.
Simeon Iliev appeared 33 times for the club in Bulgarian NBL averaging 10.1 points, 5.3 rebounds and 1.7 assists. Cherno More reached NBL Semifinals and Iliev was named Eurobasket.com All-Bulgarian League Honorable Mention -12. In 2011 he got Eurobasket.com All-Bulgarian League Most Improved Player of the Year -11. Iliev played for the Bulgarian U20 National Team in the past.
Jimmie Hunt registered 7.9 ppg, 3.2 apg and 2.2 rpg for the club in 19 games. He arrived to Cherno More last summer from the Florida Flight (CBL). Season 2009/10 Hunt split between Tundja Yambol and Balkan Botevgrad. He also has experience from Poland, Germany and Slovenia.


*****************************************************
  CAMEROON   


Victor Samnick officially signs with Chorale Roanne - by Eurobasket News

Victor Samnick (203-F-79, college: Georgetown) officially signs with Chorale Roanne. The Cameroonian player will stay in France.
In 2011-2012 for Sluc Nancy Basket Pro (France-ProA, starting five) in Euroleague he averaged 6.8ppg, 2.3rpg, FGP: 57.7%, 3PT: 12.5%, FT: 62.5%. In French League he showed 9.0 points per game.
Roanne was interested in Victor Samnick for few days and earlier according to reports they already offered a 2-year contract to the player. Samnick spent last two seasons with Nancy. Before Nancy, Victor Samnick played for ASVEL and it was in 2009/10 season. From 2006 to 2009 he also was a member of Nancy. They won two ProA titles together (2008, 2011). In 2010, Nancy was Semaine des As winner.
Victor Samnick is a Cameroonian National Team player.


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


Lightning retain MVP, four others - by Eurobasket News

The London Lightning have begun preparations for their second National Basketball League of Canada season by submitting their five-player protected list to the NBL.

The defending NBL champions have protected Gabe Freeman (6'6''-F-85, college: Costa Mesa JC), the leagues most valuable player last year, Tim Ellis (6'4''-G-81, college: Kansas St.), Eddie Smith (6'2''-G-83, college: Ill.-Springfield), DeAnthony Bowden (6'1''-G-80, college: Creighton) and Shamari Spears (6'6''-F-86, college: Charlotte).

Players who are not on the protected list can negotiate with other teams.

Lightning general manager Taylor Brown says now that the lists are in recruiting will start in a big way.

(Lightning coach) Micheal Ray Richardson will be in town next week and we will hit the road, Brown said.

The Lightning are also planning at least two open tryouts, including one in Michigan.

The seven-team league had a successful first year of operation and will most likely expand for its second year. The emphasis for expansion would be in Ontario, where only the Oshawa Power and Lightning had franchises.

Five groups, St. Catharines, Mississauga, Ottawa, Windsor and Kitchener, have until June 15 to hand the league a $50,000 refundable deposit as well as having deals in place with facilities where they want to play.

There was also some discussion about Sydney, N.S having an interest in a franchise but that appears to have lagged. The only other major change will have the Quebec Kebs moving from Quebec and playing out of another undetermined location in the province.

Courtesy of www.lfpress.com


*****************************************************
  CHILE   


SouthAmerican Championship: friendly games for the NT - by Daniel Valencia

The chilean national team, led by the argentinian head coach Guillermo Vecchio, will play two friendly games against Uruguay on wednesday and thursday. The team it's preparing for the SouthAmerican Championship that will be held in Argentina. The NT currently has thirteen players in the roster:

Guards

Francisco Bravo (174-G-87)
Erik Carrasco (181-G-83)
Franco Morales (179-G-92)
Evandro Arteaga (178-G-83)

Forwards

Samuel Bravo (194-F-82)
Jose Ignacio Collao (194-F-87)
Jose Del Solar (195-F/C-90)
Jose Luis Martinez
Sebastian Suarez (189-F-91)

Centers

Renato Vera (199-C/F-87)
Osven Ledesma (201-C-90)
Gerardo Isla (200-F/C-91)
Cristobal Infante (201-C-88)


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

Standings - NBL

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

Regular Season: Round 11

Jun. 5: Nanjin Army - Hebei 95-89
Jun. 5: Hong Kong - Sichuan 84-87
Jun. 5: Changan Group - Guangzhou L. 72-81
Jun. 5: Jiangsu - Heilongjiang 116-92
Jun. 5: Guangzhou FM - Henan Jiyuan 106-101

Regular Season: Round 12

Jun. 9: Nanjin Army - Heilongjiang
Jun. 9: Hebei - Henan Jiyuan
Jun. 9: Hong Kong - Jiangsu
Jun. 9: Changan Group - Guangzhou FM
Jun. 9: Sichuan - Guangzhou L.


China born player goes to Japanese national team - by Robert Wang

China born forward Zhang Ben Tian Jie joined into Japan National Team. Zhang Ben Tian Jie was born in China Shen Yang, 1991, his original name is Zhang Tian Jie. He is the first Chinese player who is considered as the Japanese national team player by far.
Zhang is listed 6'7, forward, born in China from a sports family. His father was a basketball player and mother was a volleyball player, grandfather was a fencing head coach and uncle was a badminton player. His mother brought him to Japan when she retired and got his Japanese nationality during her studying there. And started his basketball career.Zhang Tian Jie attended Japan junior national team on 2008, and went to the japanese training camp of Asian championship on 2011. This time, he is voted to the japanese national team 20 member list, that means he is only 1 step away to the japanese national team. Good luck.


NBL Round 11: Sichuan edges Hong Kong by three points - by Eurobasket News

The most exciting game ended with only three-point home defeat of 6th ranked Hong Kong (4-7) to eighth ranked Sichuan (4-7) 87-84 in the game for the sixth place. Sichuan forced 26 Hong Kong turnovers. The best player for the winners was American power forward Jarrid Famous (210-88, college: S.Florida) who had a double-double by scoring 24 points, 17 rebounds and 4 assists. Guard YingLiang Wang (183-91) chipped in 23 points and 6 rebounds. American center DeVon Hardin (211-86) produced a double-double by scoring 21 points and 17 rebounds for the hosts. Sichuan moved-up to sixth place, which they share with 3 other teams including defeated Hong Kong. Hong Kong lost fourth consecutive game. Sichuan is looking forward to face league's leader Guangzhou L. in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Hong Kong will play against the league's second-placed Jiangsu (#2) and is hoping to win this game.
Very important is a road loss of third ranked Hebei (7-4) against ninth ranked Nanjin Army (4-7) on Tuesday night. Visiting Hebei was defeated by Nanjin Army in a tough game on the road 89-95. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Hebei. Forward Shengyue Sun (198-89) orchestrated the victory by scoring 24 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists. ShouWei Wang contributed with 24 points, 11 rebounds and 4 blocks for the winners. Nanjin Army's coach Yuenan Ma used entire bench which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American forward Bryan Davis (206-86, college: Texas A&M, agency: N.E.T.) answered with a double-double by scoring 34 points (!!!) and 15 rebounds for Hebei. Nanjin Army moved-up to sixth place, which they share with 3 other teams. Hebei at the other side keeps the third position with four games lost. They share it with Changan Group and Guangzhou FM. Nanjin Army will play against Heilongjiang (#8) in the next round. Hebei will play against Henan Jiyuan (#10) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
First ranked Guangzhou L. faced second-ranked Changan Group. Guests from (9-2) defeated host Changan Group (7-4) 81-72. It was a great evening for Hamady N'Diaye who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 22 points, 25 rebounds and 4 blocks. Joseph Taylor responded with a double-double by scoring 20 points, 10 rebounds, 4 assists and 5 blocks. Changan Group's coach MingZhu Pu rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Guangzhou L. have an impressive series of six victories in a row. They maintain first place with 9-2 record. Loser Changan Group dropped to the third position with four games lost. They share it with Hebei and Guangzhou FM. Guangzhou L. will meet Sichuan (#7) in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Changan Group will play against Guangzhou FM (#3) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Local Jiangsu (8-3) outscored 7th ranked Heilongjiang (4-7) 116-92. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Heilongjiang. It was a quality performance for Julius Hodge who led the winners with a triple-double by scoring 22 points, 15 rebounds, 10 assists and 4 steals (on 10-of-13 shooting from the field). The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Jiangsu moved-up to second place. Heilongjiang at the other side dropped to the sixth position with seven games lost. Jiangsu's next round opponent will be Hong Kong (#6). Heilongjiang will play against Nanjin Army.

In the last game of round 11 bottom-ranked Henan Jiyuan was defeated by Guangzhou FM in a road game 106-101.
The best stats of 11th round was 38 points (!!!) and 34 rebounds by Kenny Adeleke of Henan Jiyuan.

Changan Group - Guangzhou L. 72-81

First ranked Guangzhou L. faced second-ranked Changan Group. Guests from (9-2) defeated host Changan Group (7-4) 81-72. The guests trailed by 2 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 6-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 81-72. Guangzhou L. made 17-of-21 free shots (81.0 percent) during the game. Guangzhou L. outrebounded Changan Group 43-30 including a 22-11 advantage in offensive rebounds. It was a great evening for Senegalese center Hamady N'Diaye (213-87, college: Rutgers) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 22 points, 25 rebounds and 4 blocks. The former international power forward XiangTao Liu (202-80) helped adding 22 points. American forward Joseph Taylor (203-85, college: Wyoming) responded with a double-double by scoring 20 points, 10 rebounds, 4 assists and 5 blocks and forward Jian Sun (190-88) scored 10 points and 9 rebounds. Changan Group's coach MingZhu Pu rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Guangzhou L. have an impressive series of six victories in a row. They maintain first place with 9-2 record. Loser Changan Group dropped to the third position with four games lost. They share it with Hebei and Guangzhou FM. Guangzhou L. will meet Sichuan (#7) in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Changan Group will play against Guangzhou FM (#3) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Guangzhou L.: N.Hamady 22+25reb+2ast, L.XiangTao 22+2reb, W.Jing 13+3reb+1ast, Z.ChaoLong 8+2reb+1ast, J.Lei 7+2reb+1ast, T.Chao 6+4reb+2ast
Changan Group: T.Joseph 20+10reb+4ast, J.Cheng 15+1reb+3ast, S.Jian 10+9reb+2ast, S.Lei 9+1reb+2ast, R.XiaTi 8+5reb+1ast, J.JunQi 5
gschID: 176071


Jiangsu - Heilongjiang 116-92

Local Jiangsu (8-3) outscored 7th ranked Heilongjiang (4-7) 116-92. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Heilongjiang. The game was mostly controlled by Jiangsu. Heilongjiang was better in fourth quarter 21-20. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Jiangsu dominated down low during the game scoring 86 of its points in the paint compared to Heilongjiang's 50 and made 18-of-21 charity shots (85.7 percent) during the game. Jiangsu forced 24 Heilongjiang turnovers and outrebounded them 47-35 including 16 on the offensive glass. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 28 assists comparing to just 12 passes made by Heilongjiang's players. It was a quality performance for U.S. Virgin Islands-Antiguan guard Julius Hodge (201-83, college: N.Carolina St.) who led the winners with a triple-double by scoring 22 points, 15 rebounds, 10 assists and 4 steals (on 10-of-13 shooting from the field). YanQing Wang (194-87) accounted for 16 points (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) for the winning side. Four Jiangsu players scored in double figures. American power forward Rashaun Freeman (206-84, college: Massachusetts) came up with 27 points and swingman DaPeng Wang (193-83) added 17 points respectively for Heilongjiang in the defeat. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Jiangsu moved-up to second place. Heilongjiang at the other side dropped to the sixth position with seven games lost. Jiangsu's next round opponent will be Hong Kong (#6). Heilongjiang will play against Nanjin Army.
Top scorers:
Jiangsu: H.Julius 22+15reb+10ast, W.YanQing 16+3reb+3ast, F.Hui 13+4reb+1ast, S.XianLing 12+5reb+4ast, M.Zhuang 10+1reb+3ast, Z.HongWei 10+2reb+1ast
Heilongjiang: F.Rashaun 27+4reb+2ast, W.DaPeng 17+2reb, J.Ming 10+4reb+2ast, Y.Gang 7+5reb, Z.JunXiong 7+3reb+2ast, X.Peng 7+3reb+3ast
gschID: 176068


Guangzhou FM - Henan Jiyuan 106-101

There was no surprise when 10th ranked Henan Jiyuan (1-10) was defeated on the road by fifth ranked Guangzhou FM (7-4) 106-101. However just five-point win is not that big difference and the fans of host team counted on more convincing victory. After very bad start, Henan Jiyuan stormed back in the second period cutting the deficit to 1 point 49-48. But it was not enough and Guangzhou FM took back the control in second half. Guangzhou FM had a 35-24 advantage in offensive rebounds. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 22 assists. 30 personal fouls committed by Henan Jiyuan helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was an exceptional evening for American forward Walter Sharpe (206-86, college: UAB, agency: Two Points) who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 19 points, 19 rebounds and 4 assists. Guard KaiFu Yao (196-83) accounted for 23 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists for the winning side. Four Guangzhou FM players scored in double figures. Nigerian center Kenny Adeleke (205-83, college: Hartford) came up with a double-double by scoring 38 points (!!!) and 34 rebounds and ZhanYu Wang (196-86) added 20 points and 4 assists respectively for Henan Jiyuan in the defeat. Guangzhou FM moved-up to third place, which they share with Hebei and Changan Group. Henan Jiyuan lost their ninth game in a row. They stay at the bottom position with ten games lost. Guangzhou FM's next round opponent will be Changan Group (#4). Henan Jiyuan will play against Hebei (#5).
Top scorers:
Guangzhou FM: Y.KaiFu 23+9reb+5ast, Y.Peng 22+2reb+1ast, S.Walter 19+19reb+4ast, L.DaPeng 15+5reb+2ast, D.JunJiang 10+1reb+2ast, Y.Liang 7+6reb+1ast
Henan Jiyuan: A.Kenny 38+34reb+1ast, W.ZhanYu 20+3reb+4ast, Z.Chao 11+7reb+3ast, L.XiaoHu 7+1reb+1ast, H.Bin 7, G.Wei 6+1reb
gschID: 176069


Nanjin Army - Hebei 95-89

Very important is a road loss of third ranked Hebei (7-4) against ninth ranked Nanjin Army (4-7) on Tuesday night. Visiting Hebei was defeated by Nanjin Army in a tough game on the road 89-95. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Hebei. Hebei was ahead by 6 points after three quarters before a 30-18 charge of Nanjin Army, which allowed them to win the game. Hebei was plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. Forward Shengyue Sun (198-89) orchestrated the victory by scoring 24 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists. Center ShouWei Wang (208-86) contributed with a double-double by scoring 24 points, 11 rebounds and 4 blocks for the winners. Nanjin Army's coach Yuenan Ma used entire bench which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American forward Bryan Davis (206-86, college: Texas A&M, agency: N.E.T.) answered with a double-double by scoring 34 points (!!!) and 15 rebounds and guard ZhiTong Yin (195-86) added 22 points and 5 rebounds (was perfect 7-for-7 from the free throw line) in the effort for Hebei. Nanjin Army moved-up to sixth place, which they share with 3 other teams. Hebei at the other side keeps the third position with four games lost. They share it with Changan Group and Guangzhou FM. Nanjin Army will play against Heilongjiang (#8) in the next round. Hebei will play against Henan Jiyuan (#10) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Nanjin Army: W.ShouWei 24+11reb+2ast, S.Shengyue 24+9reb+6ast, D.QinShuo 10+5reb+1ast, Z.CaiBao 8+7reb+3ast, T.JiaFu 7+1reb, A.LiPeng 7+3reb
Hebei: D.Bryan 34+15reb, Y.ZhiTong 22+5reb, L.YiDing 12+6reb, W.Tong 7+5reb+2ast, Y.TingYu 6+3reb+2ast, S.ChunLei 3+4reb+3ast
gschID: 176070


Hong Kong - Sichuan 84-87

This derby game ended with only three-point home defeat of 6th ranked Hong Kong (4-7) to eighth ranked Sichuan (4-7) 87-84 in the game for the sixth place. Sichuan forced 26 Hong Kong turnovers. The best player for the winners was American power forward Jarrid Famous (210-88, college: S.Florida) who had a double-double by scoring 24 points, 17 rebounds and 4 assists. Guard YingLiang Wang (183-91) chipped in 23 points and 6 rebounds. Four Sichuan players scored in double figures. American center DeVon Hardin (211-86) produced a double-double by scoring 21 points and 17 rebounds and guard XiaoHang Yu (193-89) added 15 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists respectively for the hosts. Sichuan moved-up to sixth place, which they share with 3 other teams including defeated Hong Kong. Hong Kong lost fourth consecutive game. Sichuan is looking forward to face league's leader Guangzhou L. in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Hong Kong will play against the league's second-placed Jiangsu (#2) and is hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
Sichuan: F.Jarrid 24+17reb+4ast, W.YingLiang 23+6reb+2ast, D.ChengLong 17+4reb+1ast, C.Ma 10, H.XiaoBin 8, G.YuZhang 4+3reb+3ast
Hong Kong: H.DeVon 21+17reb+1ast, Y.XiaoHang 15+5reb+5ast, F.Zhou 15+2ast, W.XiaoDong 8+2reb, Z.DongYang 8+5reb+2ast, L.MingHao 6+4reb+5ast
gschID: 176067



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

Stats Leaders - A1

Points Per Game
 Ivan MIMICA
  KK Split
  (193-G-80)
  Avg: 18.8
 1. Mimica, KK Split18.8 
 2. Ceskovic, Kvarner18.0 
 3. Ross, Jolly17.9 
 4. Markota, KK.17.6 
 5. Stimac, Svjetlost16.7 
 6. Bilan, Cedevita15.6 
 7. Sobin, KK Split15.3 
 8. Simovic, Kvarner15.3 
 9. Kruslin, Zabok15.1 
 10. Vrbanc, Zadar14.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Ive IVANOV
  Zadar
  (201-C-85)
  Avg: 7.5
 1. Ivanov, Zadar7.5 
 2. Markota, KK.7.5 
 3. Sobin, KK Split7.1 
 4. Stimac, Svjetlost7.0 
 5. Simovic, Kvarner6.8 
 6. Cinac, Kvarner 20106.8 
 7. Suton, Cibona6.6 
 8. Peraica, Darda6.6 
 9. Zupic, Alkar Sinj6.4 
 10. Bilan, Cedevita6.0 
Assists Per Game
 Josip GLAVINIC
  Krizevci
  (192-G-82)
  Avg: 5.1
 1. Glavinic, Krizevci5.1 
 2. Ross, Jolly4.4 
 3. Vujcic, KK Split4.2 
 4. Blajic, Kvarner4.2 
 5. Subotic, KK Split4.2 
 6. Kostomaj, Svjet.3.7 
 7. Wright, Cibona3.5 
 8. Tomas, Zabok3.1 
 9. Bazdaric, Cedevita3.0 
 10. Ceskovic, Kvarner2.9 
Steals Per Game
 Ronald ROSS
  Jolly
  (188-G-83)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Ross, Jolly2.9 
 2. Draper, Cedevita2.5 
 3. Wright, Cibona2.1 
 4. Bicvic, Darda1.9 
 5. Rozic, Cibona1.9 
 6. Blajic, Kvarner1.8 
 7. Kostomaj, Svjet.1.7 
 8. Sobin, KK Split1.5 
 9. Kruslin, Zabok1.5 
 10. Stimac, Svjetlost1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Filip KRALJEVIC
  Zabok
  (214-F-89)
  Avg: 1.7
 1. Kraljevic, Zabok1.7 
 2. Sarlija, Borik1.2 
 3. Zupic, Alkar Sinj1.1 
 4. Bubalo, Zabok1.1 
 5. Buva, Krizevci0.8 
 6. Owens, Cedevita0.8 
 7. Vujcic, KK Split0.8 
 8. Bilan, Cedevita0.7 
 9. Sobin, KK Split0.7 
 10. Vukovic, KK Split0.7 


Cibona wins the championship title - by Eurobasket News

Finals, Game 4: Cedevita - Cibona 64-77 (1-3)

Cibona won the championship title tonight. They cruised past Cedevita as guests 64-77 closing the Finals with almost perfect 1-3. This is the 17th Croatian league title in Cibona's history. They finished the season with impressive 19-1 record.
Cibona led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They made 16-of-21 free shots (76.2 percent) during the game. Cibona forced 19 Cedevita turnovers. 27 personal fouls committed by Cedevita helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a great performance of Goran Suton (209-85, college: Michigan St.) who helped to win the game recording 13 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists. Davor Kus (191-78, agency: Interperformances) contributed with 18 points for the winners and Khalid El-Amin netted 16. Four Cibona players scored in double figures. American forward Haywood Owens (204-79, college: Texas, agency: Pro One Sports) replied with 14 points and 8 rebounds and center Dalibor Bagaric (217-80, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) added 9 points in the effort for Cedevita.
Cibona was the regular season champion in Croatia with perfect 14-0 record. They eliminated Zadar with 2-0 in the Semis. Cedevita can also be satisfied with this season. They won the Croatian Cup and reached Adriatic league Finals.

Cedevita: H.Owens 14+8reb+2ast, D.Bagaric 9+4reb+1ast, M.Bazdaric 7+1reb+1ast, M.Car 7+3reb+2ast, L.Warren 6+3reb+3ast, M.Bilan 6+1reb
Cibona: D.Kus 18+2reb+2ast, K.El-Amin 16+2reb+3ast, G.Suton 13+9reb+4ast, M.Rozic 11+4reb+2ast, A.Zizic 7+3reb, Z.Wright 6+3reb+3ast


*****************************************************
  D-LEAGUE   


Eric Musselman to coach D-League Select Team at 2012 NBA Summer League in Las Vegas - by Eurobasket News

The NBA Development League today announced that Eric Musselman, the head coach of the Los Angeles D-Fenders and the 2012 NBA Development League Coach of the Year, will serve as head coach for the 2012 NBA D-League Select team that will play in NBA Summer League in Las Vegas in July.

Musselman joins the Select team coming off of his first season in Los Angeles, where he guided the team to a 38-12 record, the best in NBA D-League history. Musselman's D-Fenders rode their regular-season success into the NBA D-League playoffs, advancing to the NBA D-League Finals, before falling in three games to the Austin Toros. Musselman joined the D-Fenders following a one-season stint at the helm of the Reno Bighorns, when the team compiled a Western Conference-best 34-16 record.

The NBA D-League Select team, which features the NBA D-League's top prospects, returns to NBA Summer League following appearance in 2009 and 2010. Musselman joins Scott Roth (2009) and Nick Nurse (2010) as head coaches of the NBA D-League Select Team.

'We're thrilled to have Eric coach our Select team in Las Vegas this summer,' said Chris Alpert, vice president of basketball operations and player personnel for the NBA D-League. 'Eric has proven to be a passionate, energetic coach and a first class developer of talent. We're looking very forward to working with him during the Summer League.'

A tenured coach, Musselman spent more than 10 years coaching in the NBA before joining the NBA D-League ranks. He began his NBA coaching career in 1997, spending three seasons as an assistant coach with the Orlando Magic, before joining the Atlanta Hawks in the same roll in 2000. He earned his first head coaching job with the Golden State Warriors in 2002, compiling a 75-89 record over two seasons, and was runner up for the 2003 NBA Coach of the Year Award. Musselman spent the two subsequent seasons as the top assistant under head coach Mike Fratello with the Memphis Grizzlies before regaining a head coaching job with the Sacramento Kings in 2006, posting a 33-49 mark on the season.

Prior to joining the NBA's coaching ranks, Musselman coached in the Continental Basketball Association from 1989 and 1997. During that time, he became the youngest coach in CBA history, when he was named head coach of the Rapid City Thrillers at the age of 23, and went on to be the first coach in professional basketball history to win 100 games by the age of 28. He was named the head coach of the CBA All-Star Game a record five times, and owns a 270-122 (.688) record in the CBA, second to only George Karl.

The NBA D-League Select Team's roster and schedule will be announced at a later date.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com


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


Greg Plummers 34 points Push Huellas del Siglo to 3-1 in Summer Tournament Play - by Surujh Roopnarine

Since May 18 the Annual Tournament of Superior Basketball National District has been going on in the Dominican Republic, where five clubs are going head to head for the right to hoist the prestigious Grand Cup trophy.

Huellas del Siglo (101) vs. Los Padros (87) In the second part of a double-header, American guard Gregory Plummer (193-G-83, college: Eckerd) scored a game-high 34 points, including five three-pointers, as Huellas de Siglo downed Los Prados 101-87 last night in the Virgilio Travesio Soto. The night was historic nonetheless for Los Prados, as veteran Henry Lalane connected on four of six three-pointers to become the tournaments all-time leader with 312 made.
However, his career achievement was not enough to propel Los Prados, who finished the first round with a disappointing 1-4 record. Huellas on the other improved to impressive 3-1 record, after outscoring their opponents 55-41 after halftime.

HUELLAS DEL SIGLO: Gregory Plummer (34pts), Rome Sanders (23pts+6reb+6ast), Joel Ramirez (14pts+9ast), Lawrence Gilbert (12pts+5ast) LOS PRADOS: Darius Adams (23pts), Henry Lalane (16pts), John Garcia (11pts+4reb), Terrence Shannon (8pts+7reb)

San Lazaro (67) vs. Bameseo (60pts)
San Lazaro managed to pull out a close victory over defending champion Bameseo in game-one of the double-header yesterday at the Palace of Virgilio Travesio Soto. Edwin Carela led San Lazaro with a team-high 14 points while Edward Sanatana was the player of the game in defeat for Bameseo with game-highs of 19 points and 10 rebounds. San Lazaro improved to 2-2, while Bameseo fell to 2-3.

SAN LAZARO: Edwin Carera (14pts), Ismael Martinez (13pts+5reb), Carlos Paniagua (12pts+7reb)BAMESEO: Edward Santana (19pts+10reb), Cesar Rosario (12pts), Alberto Ozuna (11pts)


TOP 2015 RECRUIT PLAYS FOR EL PAIS at UK - by Ozell Wells

Top 2015 recruit plays basketball for DR at U of Kentucky
The Dominican basketball team is training at the University of Kentucky under Wildcats coach John Calipari for their important challenge of trying to be one of three teams to make the London Olympics basketball tournament. The DR will compete in the Caracas, Venezuela qualifier in early July.

But while University of Kentucky Coach Cal hones the skills of Dominican basketball players for the next two weeks in Kentucky, he is also taking the opportunity to convince Karl Towns, 16, one of the potentially top US 2015 college basketball recruits to choose the Big Blue Nation team.

Towns, a US citizen by birth who has taken his Dominican mother's nationality for sports, is one of the young players seeking a slot on the Dominican national team that will play in the London Olympics qualifier in Caracas, Venezuela in early July. Only a high school freshman in Piscataway, New Jersey, 6-foot-11 Towns would play alongside the likes of NBA veterans Al Horford, Francisco Garcia and Charlie Villanueva in pool play of the Olympic qualifying tournament July 2-8 in Caracas, Venezuela.


National Team Update: Preparing for the OQT - by Ozell Wells

Coaching the Dominican team to the July Olympics Qualifier

Coach John Calipari (Coach Cal) reports on the start of training to prepare the Dominican men's basketball team for its last chance of qualifying for the London Olympics. The DR will play against Russia and South Korea in the first round qualifier in Caracas, Venezuela on 2-8 July. The top three teams win one of the final three berths for the 12-team Olympics basketball tournament. The team is training at the Joe Craft Center, home of the Wildcats, winners of the 2012 NCAA championship. He reports that the younger Dominican players in the team had four practices in two days before the more veteran players like Al Horford and Jack Michael Martinez join them this week. Calipari acknowledges they have a difficult task ahead. 'The teams we will face at the 2012 FIBA World Qualifying Tournament in Venezuela are the best teams from all regions of the world.' He says that as part of the preparation, the team will also play exhibition games in Cincinnati before the team leaves for Puerto Rico on 15 June to play in the FIBA CentroBasket.

'As we get ready to make some history, I'm glad the Big Blue Nation is once again behind us and is supporting this team. It was a great experience last year that helped my staff and I with our national championship team,' he says.

courtesy of coachcal



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


ARENDASH & HALLER PLAY IN FRENCH TOURNAMENT...WIN 3rd PLACE - by Ozell Wells

2012 EURO ESPORS

The Annual Euro Espoirs Tournament was held this past weekend in Douai, Calois, France with the participation of
Avenir Berbourg, and Anvers from France, Zastal Zielona Gora and KKS Sliechnice from Poland and Antwerpen alongside P-Atlex/Evolution from Belgium.

The beauty of the event lay in the international nature of the assembled teams, namely the P-Atlex. That particular roster was composed of players from Belgium (by virtue of the Evolution Academy), Poland, Holland and Estonia (who presented 2 U18 National Team Players).
The tournament was unique in that top clubs in the countries represented, sent their espoir teams, namely players under the age of 21 years. The games proved to be exciting and full of intens strategy & tactical adjustments as every team boasted a young, prospective coach looking to make a name for himself.

The bright spots of the event proved to be the young Estonian prospects, Igor Arendas (174-G-94) and Egert Haller (188-G-95), who along with Filip Matczak (184-PG-93) and Pawel Jasnos (200-F-94), arch rivals from the Polish side Zastal Zielona Gora gave quite a spectacle performance. The teams locked horns twice in the tournament, once during the match play and again in the 3rd place game. As it turned out, all four of the players are members of their countries junior national teams; and both games were filled with Egert Haller's long range bombs, to coincide with Igor Arendas's quick crisp passing to Giordy Ross or Francis Torrebore only to be countered by Filip Maiczak's lob passes to Pawel Jasnos or skip passes for 3 point bombs from Jaroslaw Michalewicz.
Although the championship game was played between Antwerp and the Avenir Berbourg, in which Antwerp emerged victorious; many of the assembled fans were adamant about the fact that the 3rd place game was the best game of the event.
A few standout players at the event (in my opinion) and in no specific order were:
Filip Matczak (Zastal), Francis Torrebore (P-Atlex) , Jeremy (Avenir), Pawel Jasnos, (Zastal)

Both Estonian players participated in the 3 point shooting contest, where both of them reached the quarterfinal round of the competition.



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


KORISLIIGA: Coach Pavicevic and his come back - by Rauno Hurmalainen

Basketball Coach Mihailo Pavicevic , 54, from Montenegro will make a come back in Finland and into Finnish basketball courts. Pavicevic and Torpan Pojat (Helsinki) have agreed, that Pavicevic will be the next Head Coach for ToPo in the Top League and the whole Team organisation. Pavicevic became well known, when coaching Honka (Espoo) for nine years and leading Honka into five Finnish championships and one Finnish Cup victory. Such players as Petteri Koponen and Sasu Salin can also be grateful to Pavicevic, who was coaching them into European top teams.


KORISLIIGA: Carl Lindbom moving to Tampere - by Rauno Hurmalainen

Young and talented Finnish SF Carl Lindbom (206-F-91) is leaving Helsinki area and will move to Tampere. By the same Lindbom will leave Torpan Pojat and will join Pyrinto (Tampere) roster. Lindbom averaged 2011-12 on ToPo roster 10,4 ppg - 4,2 rpg in 21:22 mpg and 47 games. Lindbom was team's second leading scorer (21 pts), when ToPo won the bronze medals in May, when beating Pyrinto 97-90. Pyrinto's new Head Coach Ville Tuominen is more than happy, when Lindbom decided to sign with Pyrinto instead of many other teams.


KORISLIIGA: Tuukka Kotti joins Bisons roster - by Rauno Hurmalainen

Finnish NT PF/C Tuukka Kotti (205-F/C-81, college: Providence) will join Bisons (Loimaa) roster 2012-13, if he does not play coming season abroad. Finnish Champion (2011-12) Bisons and Kotti have agreed and signed that kind of 1-year-contract. The Player has the option valid untill the end of August. Kotti has played professionally one year in France and five seasons in Italy. Last season Kotti averaged 9,6 ppg - 6,9 rpg in Imola (Lega2), Italy. Kotti has been 130 times on Finnish NT roster as well.


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

Stats Leaders - ProA

Points Per Game
 Eric CHATFIELD
  Paris-.
  (191-G-79)
  Avg: 19.6
 1. Chatfield, Paris-.19.6 
 2. Hughes, Hyeres-T.17.2 
 3. Gipson, Pau-Lacq.17.1 
 4. Hamilton, Paris-.17.0 
 5. Rochestie, Le Mans16.6 
 6. Williams, Paris-.16.5 
 7. Schilb, Chalon16.4 
 8. Causeur, Cholet16.0 
 9. Cox, Le Havre15.8 
 10. Ray, Pau-Lacq.15.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Chinemelu ELONU
  Pau-Lacq.
  (206-F/C-87)
  Avg: 8.3
 1. Elonu, Pau-Lacq.8.3 
 2. Hamilton, Paris-.8.2 
 3. Akingbala, Nancy7.8 
 4. Armstrong, AS.7.2 
 5. Greer, Strasbourg7.0 
 6. Aminu, Chalon6.8 
 7. Nsonwu-Amadi, Roa.6.8 
 8. Vebobe, Cholet6.8 
 9. Moerman, Nancy6.6 
 10. Falker, Cholet6.5 
Assists Per Game
 Kareem REID
  Hyeres-Toulon
  (178-PG-75)
  Avg: 7.6
 1. Reid, Hyeres-Toulon7.6 
 2. Rochestie, Le Mans6.5 
 3. Wise, Le Havre5.6 
 4. Pellin, Orleans5.2 
 5. Linehan, Nancy5.2 
 6. Dixon, Dijon5.1 
 7. Barrett, Roanne4.9 
 8. Tchicamboud, Cha.4.6 
 9. Schilb, Chalon4.6 
 10. Gipson, Pau-Lacq.4.5 
Steals Per Game
 Andrew ALBICY
  Gravelines
  (178-PG-90)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Albicy, Gravelines2.4 
 2. Dobbins, Poitiers2.3 
 3. Riley, Nanterre2.1 
 4. Linehan, Nancy2.1 
 5. Wise, Le Havre2.0 
 6. Shuler, Nancy1.8 
 7. Pellin, Orleans1.8 
 8. Acker, Le Mans1.8 
 9. Melody, Dijon1.7 
 10. Greer, Strasbourg1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Alexis AJINCA
  Strasbourg
  (215-C-88)
  Avg: 2
 1. Ajinca, Strasbourg2.0 
 2. Falker, Cholet1.4 
 3. Gobert, Cholet1.2 
 4. Hamilton, Paris-.1.2 
 5. Elonu, Pau-Lacq.1.1 
 6. Akingbala, Nancy1.1 
 7. Akpomedah, Grave.1.0 
 8. Sy, Orleans0.9 
 9. Issa, Gravelines0.9 
 10. Armstrong, AS.0.9 


Antoine Diot turns down offer by Bourg - by Eurobasket News

Antoine Diot (191-PG-89) decided to turn down the contact offer by his former team Bourg. The player stated he wants to play in ProA. Diot missed almost the entire season due to injury. He appeared only four times with Le Mans. In 2010/11 season Diot had 8 ppg, 3.7 apg, 3.3 rpg and 2.1 spg for 30 games in ProA. He had slightly better numbers for 12 EuroCup games. Antoine Diot joined Le Mans in 2007 from CFBB. Before that, he spent one year with INSEP. The player started basketball career at Bourg. Antoine Diot played for the French National Team at the 2009 EuroBasket in Poland. He had 5.1 ppg and 1.9 rpg for 8 games. That same year he led U20 France to Silver at U20 EuroBasket in Rhodes. He was named Eurobasket.com All-European Championships U20 Best Guard -09. Diot very successfully played also for U19, U18 and U16 France.


Report: De Colo to join Spurs - by Eurobasket News

It was reported here at Project Spurs that San Antonio Spurs 2009 draftee Nando De Colo (6'8''-G-87) was set to sign with Barcelona after this season with Valencia which would have all but ended any possibility of him joining the Spurs anytime soon.

However, according to Spanish site Encestando, De Colo will be joining the Spurs next season.

Nando Colo most likely played his last game last night in the League Endesa. We expect that the (he will join) the San Antonio Spurs, which is the franchise that has his rights. The deal closed for weeks and only awaiting official confirmation and Valencia Basket does know.

The report goes on to state that the French guard will play an exhibition game in Spain with Barcelona and Madrid but will eventually join San Antonio.

In his last game with Valencia Basket, Nando finished with 22 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists in the ACB tournament losing to FCB Regal 3-1 in their semi finals series.

If the report is true then this shakes things up at the guard spot. De Colo doesn't have much quickness but can handle the ball, can find the open player, and could prove to be an adequate backup for Tony Parker. Also, he is a big guard at 6'5' which is an advantage the team would like to have.

This season with Valencia, Nando shot 46.2% from the field, 36% from the three-point line, averaged 3 rebounds, 13.5 points, 2.9 assists, 1.5 steals, but did turn the ball over 2.1 times a game. That's not a good assist-to-turnover ratio for a point guard.

However, if the team decides to make him the backup point guard, then what will happen to Gary Neal who is a free agent after this season and has been used as a point guard at times? James Anderson is probably not going to be with the team next season (since the Spurs did not pick up his option this season) so perhaps this just pushes Neal back to the shooting guard role. Also, Cory Joseph should improve next season with a full training camp under his belt and with a full 82-game season but will DeColo, a player who has been playing professionally for year, stunt Cory's development?

There is the option the Spurs could send him to the Toros should he still need to work on his game before stepping foot on an NBA court.

Moreover, Parker and De Colo will be playing together this summer for the French national team for the 2012 Olympic games so do not expect him to be playing with the Spurs' Summer League team with him training for the Olympics.

One this is for sure, should De Colo join San Antonio, the team sure will have the French fan market cornered with the possibility of the Spurs having three French players (Parker, Boris Diaw, and De Colo) on the roster next season.

What do you have to say Spurs fans? Chime on in.

Courtesy of http://projectspurs.com


Roanne close to sign Pape-Philippe Amagou - by Eurobasket News

According to French media (Le Progres), Roanne is very close to return its former player Pape-Philippe Amagou (185-G-85, agency: Beo Basket). As reported earlier, the club offered a 3-year deal to Amagou. The player spent this season with Nancy. He had 7.8 ppg and 1.3 rpg for 10 Euroleague games. In ProA, he averaged 11.1 points, 2.7 assists and 1.9 rebounds for 33 games. Pape-Philippe Amagou played for Roanne from 2009 to 2011. He had 12.5 ppg, 2.7 apg and 2.3 rpg for them in their last season together (ProA). The player also registered 10.2 ppg, 2.7 apg and 1.2 rpg for 6 EuroCup games. Before Roanne, he was a member of Kavala, Nancy and Le Mans. In 2006 and 2008, Amagou won the ProA title with Le Mans and Nancy, respectively. He played for the Ivory Coast National Team at the 2009 AfroBasket in Libya and 2010 World Championship in Turkey. In 2009, he was named Africabasket.com All-African Championships Best Guard and Ivory Coast won the Silver. Amagou's Nancy failed to defend the title this season. There faced with elimination in ProA Quarterfinals.


Rueil inks Ibrahim Saounera, David Cilly joins Berck - by Eurobasket News

Ibrahim Saounera (179-G-87) is a new member of Rueil. The Malian/French point guard left Cognac and signed a one-year deal with his new club. Saounera had 6.4 ppg, 1.9 apg and 1.7 rpg in 34 NM1 games this season. He joined Cognac in 2010 and managed to win NM2 Group B with them. It was enough for the promotion to NM1. Before Cognac, Saounera was a member of Boulazac and Reims.
NM2 team Berck penned a deal with David Cilly (196-G/F-81) for the next season. He spent last two in NM1 with Orchesien. For 36 games this season Cilly registered 8.8 ppg and 5.9 rpg. The player had slightly better numbers in 2010/11. In the past, Cilly played for Lievin, Longwy, Nantes and Boulazac. In 2005, he was NM1 champion with Boulazac.


WOSB signs Sreten Cabarkapa, releases Dominique Gentil - by Eurobasket News

WOSB (Wasselonne Otterswiller Saverne Basket) announced signing of Sreten Cabarkapa (204-C-84) for the next season. At the same time, the NM2 team parted ways with Dominique Gentil (195-G/F-88).
Sreten Cabarkapa arrives to the club from Rueil, where he spent last season. He played 34 games in NM1 registering 10 ppg, 7.6 rpg and 1.7 apg. In 2010/11, Caparkapa was a member of Le Puy. The Serbian/French center averaged 10.8 points and 8 rebounds for 32 games in NM1. He already has experience from NM2.
Dominique Gentil joined WOSB in 2010. Before that he played for CS Autun Basket and Strasbourg IG. In Strasbourg, Gentil mostly played for U21 team.


Rouen and Pierric Poupet part ways - by Eurobasket News

Pierric Poupet (191-G-84) is no longer a member of Rouen. Two sides agreed to terminate their deal. Poupet arrived to the club in 2009 and he had one more year left in his contract, but he became a free agent yesterday. He appeared 33 times in ProB this season averaging 10.8 points, 4.4 assists and 2.8 rebounds. Rouen ended as No.14 in the league with 14-20 record. In 2010/11 season, the player had 9.6 ppg, 4.1 apg and 3.1 rpg for 36 games. As mentioned above, before Rouen Pierric Poupet played for Roanne. He spent two years with them. Poupet also has experience from Orleans, Bourg, Limoges and Golbey-Epinal. In 2008 with Roanne Pierric Poupet reached ProA Finals. In 2006 with Bourg he reached Semaine des As Finals.


Victor Samnick officially signs with Chorale Roanne - by Eurobasket News

Victor Samnick (203-F-79, college: Georgetown) officially signs with Chorale Roanne. The Cameroonian player will stay in France.
In 2011-2012 for Sluc Nancy Basket Pro (France-ProA, starting five) in Euroleague he averaged 6.8ppg, 2.3rpg, FGP: 57.7%, 3PT: 12.5%, FT: 62.5%. In French League he showed 9.0 points per game.
Roanne was interested in Victor Samnick for few days and earlier according to reports they already offered a 2-year contract to the player. Samnick spent last two seasons with Nancy. Before Nancy, Victor Samnick played for ASVEL and it was in 2009/10 season. From 2006 to 2009 he also was a member of Nancy. They won two ProA titles together (2008, 2011). In 2010, Nancy was Semaine des As winner.
Victor Samnick is a Cameroonian National Team player.


American Derrick Russell heads to Avignon - by Eurobasket News

American Derrick Russell (207-C-82, college: Auburn-Montgomery) heads to Avignon for the next season. The player will come from USA Lievin Basket.
In 2006-2007 he moved to France and appeared for Angers BC 49 (France-ProB, starting five). In 13 games his stats read 7.5ppg, 6.2rpg, 1.0spg, FGP: 44.3%. in Dec.'06 moved to Saint Chamond Basket (France-N1, starting five) and showed 14.0ppg, 8.3rpg, 1.2apg, 1.2spg, 1.3bpg, 2FGP: 57%.
In 2007-2010 continued for Saint Chamond Basket (France-N1, starting five) and in the last season averaged 10.5ppg, 6.4rpg, 3.2bpg, 2FGP: 55.1%, 3PT: 10.0%, FT: 45.7%.
Last season USA Lievin Basket (NM1) agreed terms with 28-year old American center Derrick Russell. Russell played most recently at Saint Chamond Basket (NM1). He has played in three different pro leagues in the States. He tried also in Latin America playing in Venezuela and Ecuador.The season 2010-2011 started for USA Lievin Basket (France-NM1), but in Oct. got injured. In 23 games his stats read 8.0ppg, 6.7rpg, FGP: 51.7%, FT: 37.8%.


Doume Pierrick Moukenga joins Lievin - by Eurobasket News

Lievin stay active on the market. They secured the services of Doume Pierrick Moukenga (200-F-87) for the next season. The forward was last seen in Marmande. He tallied 15 points per game in NM2. Previously Doume Pierrick Moukenga had stints with Chalons-en-Champagne, Orleans 45 and Bordeaux.


American PG Rob Yanders joins Kaysersberg - by Eurobasket News

Robert Yanders (180-PG-79, college: Missouri St.) will continue his career in Kaysersberg. The team will compete in NM2 next season. Yanders spent this one with Challans. Actually, he joined them in February averaging 14 points, 3.8 assists, 2.5 rebounds and 1.5 steals. It was his first season in France. Before Challans, Yanders played in United Kingdom. From 2005 to 2010, he was a member of the Scottish Rocks. The player had 20 ppg, 4.5 apg and 3.6 rpg for 27 games in their last season together. For his performance Robert Yanders was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-British BBL 2nd Team -10. In the past, he played for Sheffield Sharks. The point guard won two BBL titles with them in 2003 and 2004. He also reached three BBL Finals with the Rocks.


Pau-Orthez targets Darryl Monroe - by Eurobasket News

According to French media (Catch-and-shoot), Pau-Orthez wants to sign Darryl Monroe (202-C/F-86, agency: Two Points, college: George Mason) for the next season. The 26-year-old American currently plays for Boulazac. He appeared 38 times in ProB (so far) averaging 15.7 points, 9.7 rebounds and 3.4 assists. They currently play in ProB Semifinals. Boulazac has 1-0 lead against Chalons-Reims and second game is scheduled for tomorrow. Darryl Monroe joined Boulazac last summer from Boulgone. With Boulgone he had 12.8 ppg, 7.8 rpg and 2.3 apg for 36 games in ProB. His rookie season in Europe (2009/10) Monroe spent with Dutch DeFriesland Aris Leeuwarden. It was a very successful year for the player, who was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Dutch Eredivisie 2nd Team -10. He also participated at Eredivisie All-Star Game. Darryl Monroe is a product of George Mason University, where he graduated in 2009.


Bourg now eyes Philippe Braud - by Eurobasket News

According to French media (Catch-and-shoot), Bourg wants to sign Philippe Braud (194-G-85) for the next season. The team wanted to return Antoine Diot, but the player turned down their offer. Braud spent last two seasons with Roanne. In the latest one he had 6.6 ppg and 1.4 rpg in 14 EuroChallenge games. Roanne reached Quarterfinals in this competition. Braud also added 6.7 ppg and 1.7 rpg for 32 games in ProA. In 2010/11 season the player had 6.6 ppg and 1.3 rpg for 33 games in ProA. Before Roanne, Philippe Braud was a member of Chalon. He spent six years with the club. In the past, Braud also played for U20 French National Team.


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  GERMANY   


Germany record second win over Poland - by Eurobasket News

Germany U20 - Poland U20 62:57

German U20 National Team played their second test game against Polish counterparts in Berlin. The hosts claimed the second win in a row. Maximilian Kleber (207-F-92) knocked down 17 points to lead the winners.
Poland got to a slightly better start. The visitors enjoyed a 12:11 lead ten minutes into the clash. But Germany took over in the second period. They went on a 23:14 run to secure an 8-point halftime lead. Poland narrowed the gap in the third term. They held Germany to 12 points in the quarter to get within four points before the fourth frame. But Germany answered with a stifling defence in the final quarter and sealed the winning outcome at the end. Patrick Heckmann (195-G-92) nailed 10 points, while Ole Wendt (190-G-92, agency: Limelight Hoops) and Jarelle Reischel (198-F-92) contributed 8 points each in the victory.


Germany beat Poland in test game - by Eurobasket News

Germany U20 - Poland U20 68:64

Germany registered the first win over Poland in the test series in Berlin. The hosts claimed a 4-point victory in the opener. Daniel Theis (207-C-92) came up with 22 points to lead the hosts.
The teams stayed close throughout the starting quarter. Germany secured a 16:15 lead after ten minutes. The margin deepened in the second frame. Germany arrived at halftime up by 5 points 36:31. Germany kept their opponents at bay throughout the third term. The home team arrived at the final break up by 8 points 51:43. Poland fired 21 points in the fourth term to narrow the gap but came up short of victory at the end. Maximilian Kleber (207-F-92) provided 21 points, while Mathis Monninghoff (200-F-92) added 9 points in the victory.
The teams are scheduled to meet again tonight.


The s.Oliver Baskets Wurzurg Keep Ben Jacobson, Jason Boone And John Little - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

The s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg made a big jump in terms of keeping a foundation of their team for the upcoming season by resigning the ex BG Goettingen express of Ben Jacobson (188-G-83, college: N.Iowa), Jason Boone and John Little. The three Americans were a big part of the success of the Bavarian team. Despite the departure of John Patrick, it didnt hinder the three amigos from staying in Wurzburg as they recieved two year extensions. 'We are very happy that we could hold the three players for two more seasons despite good offers from other teams. The three have irrepressible will and fighting spirit that they brought to Wurzburg and infected the other players with. Keeping them was of our highest priority. Afterthe successful season, we want to keep continuity. These guys are the foundation of the team and with their attitude were in the hearts of the fans. Our strength was our team chemistry wich we will continue to do in the future', stressed s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg CEO Jochen Bahr.

Source: s.Oliver Baskets


Donald Lawson Remains With BV Chemnitz - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber


Chemnitz may not have the dimensions of Chicago, but at the moment Donald Lawson (208-C-88, college: W.Michigan) is calling the German city his second home as he got a contract extension and will be playing his third season for the team. Lawson is a 23 year old 208cm center and is the fourth player to resign and was able to improve his stats from his rookie season as last season he played 32 games: 8.8ppg, 6.1rpg, FGP: 44.3%, FT: 51.8%. 'I am happy that he will play for us this season. He made a big step forward last season and i think he can do it again this season. He is only 23 years old and has not reached his full potential yet. His strength is on defense, but as the season progressed, he became a real factor on offense. We want to continue this in the future', stressed BV Chemnitz head coach Felix Schreier. The American scored in double figures 13 times and had three double doubles.

Source: BV Chemnitz




Frank Theis returns to Wolfenbuettel - by Moritz Korff

After a two-year stint in Braunschweig, Frank Theis (200-C-82) returns to Herzoege Wolfenbuettel, as the Pro B club announced today. The 29-year-old inked a two-year deal with the Wolfenbuettel team. Theis is considered one of the best German big men in the Pro B. He already played for Wolfenbuettel from 2004 to 2010 and received Eurobasket.com All-German 2.Bundesliga Pro B Center of the Year in 2010. During the 2011-12 season he appeared in 28 games for the SUM Baskets Braunschweig, averaging 15.4 points and 5.7 boards a contest.


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  GREECE   


Kavala brings in Simeon Iliev and Jimmie Hunt for tryout - by Eurobasket News

Simeon Iliev (202-F-89, agency: Interperformances) and Jimmie Hunt (187-G-82, agency: Interperformances, college: Franklin Pierce) will spend next five days on tryout in Kavala, according to Bulgarian media. Both players spent this season with Cherno More.
Simeon Iliev appeared 33 times for the club in Bulgarian NBL averaging 10.1 points, 5.3 rebounds and 1.7 assists. Cherno More reached NBL Semifinals and Iliev was named Eurobasket.com All-Bulgarian League Honorable Mention -12. In 2011 he got Eurobasket.com All-Bulgarian League Most Improved Player of the Year -11. Iliev played for the Bulgarian U20 National Team in the past.
Jimmie Hunt registered 7.9 ppg, 3.2 apg and 2.2 rpg for the club in 19 games. He arrived to Cherno More last summer from the Florida Flight (CBL). Season 2009/10 Hunt split between Tundja Yambol and Balkan Botevgrad. He also has experience from Poland, Germany and Slovenia.


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  HOLLAND   


Rotterdam keeps coach Randy Wiel - by Fred Roggen

Former head coach of the Dutch national team Randy Wiel (agency: R.H.Consultancy ) a well-respected, veteran coach is set to return to the DBL, as Rotterdam has announced that Randy Wiel extended his contract for one more season. Randy Wiel, age 61, joined Rotterdam last season.
He has also worked for EiffelTowers Den Bosch. Randy Wiel won back-to-back Dutch championships with Eiffeltowers Den Bosch in 2006 and 2007, also lifted the Dutch Cup in 2008.



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  HUNGARY   


Miklos Szabo joins Szolnoki KK - by Levente Szabo

After winning the Hungarian Cup and the Championship this year for the second year in a row and reaching the EuroChallenge Final Four first time in team history the management of Szolnoki Olajbanyasz knew that in order to step further next season they have to do major moves. Because of the rule of only 3 foreign players allowed for a team in Hungary first and foremost they had to look for the best Hungarian players available. Just a few days after winning the championship they did a major move by reaching an agreement with Miklos Szabo (206-F/C-86, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group, college: Hofstra).

The signing of the double-double machine is a step which will make the roster better and more deeper. Miklos is one of the best Hungarian young big mans playing in our country. He graduated from Hofstra University in 2010 and signed his first professional deal with Assigeco BPL Lodi in the Italian Second Division. After one year in Italy he came back to Hungary to play for his hometown team, Factum Sport Debrecen. In our country Miklos was one of the best big mans in the league, and became imediately the key player of his team averaging 13.9ppg, 10.4rpg, 1.8apg and 1.2spg.

As the leading rebounder of the entire league Miklos will fill a void for Szolnoki Olajbanyasz as the Hungarian reigning champion has had on several ocasioins this year rough times under the glass. Miklos signed with the top Hungarian team with the hopes of helping them to achieve their higher goals and be able to showcase his talent on the international level.


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  ISRAEL   


From Canton, Ohio, McCollum Brothers' Grind To Glory - by David Pick

Former Goshen College standout Errick McCollum, who spent the past two seasons playing professional basketball in Israel , was eager to hit the gym with his brother and Lehigh star C.J. McCollum, as the two ballers prepared for what could possibly become a career changing season for each of them.

Interrupting their post workout jump shots at Walsh University in North Canton, Errick answered his cellular phone and on the line, 6,000 miles away, there I was.

'We workout every day and push each other all the time,' said Errick, the oldest of the two siblings, explaining how competitive basketball gets when played with brothers. 'We share similar moves and play the same guard positions. C.J.'s a little bigger than I am which is kind of a challenge,' he continued, while contemplating the challenge of hoisting shots over his 20-year-old sibling.

Catching a breather between workouts, C.J., a projected 2013 NBA Draft Lottery pick, inspires himself and Errick to continue their on-court battles by pointing to American professional boxer Floyd Mayweather for inspiration, 'whenever we get tired, I remind Errick how much money Mayweather is earning.'

A college senior, Errick, known to his locker room buddies as 'Lil' E,' was named Goshen College's all-time leading scorer and the program's first-ever NAIA DII First Team All American selection. The 24-year-old recently came off back-to-back seasons of professional ball in Israel.

After getting spotty minutes during his rookie season with Division I Barak Netanya, the 6-foot-1 McCollum returned to the Holy Land, this time, joining the struggling Hapoel Kfar Saba of the minor league. Errick instantly showed ultra scoring potential, helping Hapoel battle through the delegation playoffs en route to becoming the league's most versatile scorer, averaging 24.3 points, 3 assists and 8 rebounds per game.

'My season with Netanya didn't go as expected, but I'm happy I got the opportunity to compete against players on the highest level,' said Errick. 'I'm just waiting to get my chance to compete at a high level again. I performed well in the second division, but I think I'll show everybody what I'm capable of when the opportunity comes at a top division somewhere, and I'm going to keep preparing until that time comes.'

The McCollums need to prove themselves while constantly being doubted by others defines their hardwood struggles throughout their careers.

Wrapping up their daily workout, our phone interview moved location from WU's training facility to Errick's light blue 4X4 Dodge Durango. C.J. took charge of the steering wheel and the boys set out on their eight minute drive home.

Having decided to return to Lehigh for his senior year, analysts compared C.J.'s decision not to enter the upcoming draft to that of Golden State Warrior Stephen Curry. Like C.J., Curry attended at a Mid-major college in Davidson. Curry, who played NCAA hoops throughout his junior year, decided to stay in school one more season instead of entering the draft as sophomore. That said, Curry's stock rose to the top 10 selections and McCollum, who was predicted by various mock drafts to be chosen anywhere from late first round to early second, has already upped his value, and is expected to be a lottery draftee next June.

'I was hearing my name going late first early second round so it was definitely a tough decision but I felt that coming back to school would be the best opportunity for me not only on the court but also in the classroom,' said C.J., who prior to making his decision, made sure to call Israel to consult his older brother. 'Errick played a large role in my decision. He supported me, gave me feedback and he knows I think highly of him. He said he'd have my back with any decision I make whether being school or the NBA. He felt like I couldn't make the wrong decision.'

Despite his expected success, C.J., a two-time Patriot League player of the year, was forced throughout his career to take the hard road. He was always carefully watched, but teams questioned his ability to play at a high level. Even after dropping 30 points on the mighty Duke Blue Devils in the second round of the NCAA tournament, McCollum was doubted.

'NBA scouts came to watch C.J. play because he was always on their radar. He dominated his conference and was playing great but the fact that he went to a Mid-major college left a question mark,' Errick noted.

'We knew he could play,' Errick said. 'Our family, friends and anyone who ever played C.J. knew what he was capable of. C.J. would always hear people mumble, 'well, he's in a smaller school, or not in a big conference or this or that', there was always an excuse. The Duke game was C.J.'s opportunity to confirm what we already knew. And he did just that.'

Errick, who first left the United States in 2010 to play professionally, never had the opportunity as a spectator to watch his younger brother play. 'When I was a senior he was a freshman and our schedules overlapped. In Israel we played in two leagues and my season ended after C.J.'s,' he said.

Nonetheless, this past November, Errick's wish came true. 'I got to see C.J. play in person for the first time in his college career. I left for Israel after the season there started, so I caught Lehigh's ESPN game against St. John in New York. We lost but that didn't matter. It was probably my first and last college game to physically see him play so I was proud of the way he played.'

While in Israel, Errick watched on the screen, 'I stayed up all night watching all of C.J.'s games. Israel's time zone is roughly seven hours ahead so games would come on at 3 a.m.' Looking back on his sleepless nights, Errick recalls one in particular. 'It was the night of the Duke game in the second round of the NCAA tourney. People here went clubbing but I stayed home to catch the game. My neighbors went crazy. I was yelling at the television screen, my phone was blowing up and I was rooting for Lehigh so loudly. I always watched C.J. play and I'll always be on his back telling him what he needs to work on and improve.'

Despite the obvious differences, C.J. compares his basketball journey to that of his brother, both on and off the court. 'We went through similar things in basketball. We were both doubted from a very young age but we shared the same goals and aspirations,' he says.

'The difference between college and playing pro is that its a business. It's kind of similar to recruiting when college coaches tell you they'll give you all the minutes or play you at a certain position just to get you on board. Professional teams will do or say whatever so that you join their ball club. Then, when you get there, things just change and it's out of your control. That's what happened to Errick his first year overseas. Knowing that, you just gotta work as hard as you can everyday and when given an opportunity, take advantage of it.'

As Errick watches his younger sibling grow into a national star, he is still searching for a new post next season. 'I love Israel, but I'm waiting for the right opportunity to go back,' said Errick. 'Any Division I level overseas that is a good situation is where I'm aiming to play at right now.'

C.J.? He's focusing on improving as a player and getting ready for another season of college hoops. Lehigh's standout spends his off season breaking down the repertoire of Oklahoma City Thunder's All-Star point guard Russell Westbrook and the Warriors' Curry. 'I really try to feed off of what those guys are doing. I study their moves and try to become better as a player. Curry and I went through similar situations so I try to implement his strengths on the court and learn as much as possible from him,' C.J. concluded.

The McCollum brothers are also training for the upcoming Cleveland Pro-Am summer league. Being natives of Canton, Errick and C.J. are the only two 'foreign' players to join Akron's finest and compete for back-to-back summer league titles.




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


Adidas announces EUROCAMP participants - by Eurobasket News

Today, adidas announced the participants for the tenth annual adidas EUROCAMP. Held in Treviso, Italy June 10-12, the three-day camp brings the best young international basketball players together with former and current NBA coaches and players. It is the only officially sanctioned pre-NBA Draft camp held outside of the United States.

More than 45 early entries and draft-eligible participants will play in adidas EUROCAMP 2012 including projected 2012 NBA Draft picks Evan Fournier (France) and Tomas Satoransky (Czech Republic), according to an adidas press release.

Adidas EUROCAMP is celebrating its tenth anniversary this June with the top international basketball talent in the world, said Lawrence Norman, adidas vice president of Global Basketball. International players continue to impact the NBA as the game of basketball grows every year and we are proud to work with the next wave of international prospects.

Special guests at this years camp will include three-time NBA Champion and Hall of Famer Kevin McHale, Danilo Gallinari, Nic Batum and former college standout and long-time European professional Trajan Langdon, according to the release. The Under-20 Mens Basketball National Teams from Russia, France and Australia will also participate.

In 2011, adidas EUROCAMP participants included three top 2011 NBA Draft picks including Jonas Valanciunas (210-C-92) of Lithuania (fifth overall/Toronto Raptors), Jan Vesely (211-F-90) of the Czech Republic (sixth overall/Washington Wizards) and Bismack Biyombo (207-C-92) of the Republic of Congo (seventh overall/Sacramento Kings traded to Charlotte Bobcats). Nearly 20 former EUROCAMP participants currently hold NBA contracts and more than 60 currently play Euroleague basketball.

As I look back at my road to the NBA, I really appreciate the opportunity I had at Eurocamp to showcase my talent to NBA executives and the basketball community, said Serge Ibaka, Oklahoma City Thunder forward-center and 2008 EUROCAMP participant. As basketballs popularity continues to grow worldwide, the talent at adidas EUROCAMP gets better every year and its a great place for teams as they prepare for the NBA draft.


2012 adidas EUROCAMP Early Entry and Draft Eligible Participants

NAME HEIGHT POSITION HOME COUNTRY TEAM
Andrew Albicy 510 Point Guard France GRAVELINES
Boris Barac 69 Power Forward Croatia SIROKI TT
Jonas Bergstedt 611 Center Denmark TORRELODONES MADRID
Nemanja Besovic 73 Center Serbia PARTIZAN
Jaka Blazic 64 Guard Slovenia UNION OLIMPIJA LUBLIJANA
Bogdan Bogdanovic 66 Shooting Guard Serbia PARTIZAN
Dusan Cantekin 72 Center Turkey MEGA VIZURA
Olek Czyz 67 Forward Poland NEVADA
Daniel Diez 68 Power Forward Spain REAL MADRID II
Nihad Djedovic 66 Shooting Guard/Small Forward Bosnia GALATASARAY
Bojan Dubljevic 69 Power Forward Montenegro BUDUCNOST
Jaime Fernandez 62 Point Guard Spain ASEFA ESTUDIANTES
Evan Fournier 67 Shooting Guard France POITIERS
Josep Franch 63 Point Guard Spain MURCIA
Rudy Gobert 611 Power Forward/ Center France CHOLET
Nikola Ivanovic 62 Point Guard Montenegro BUDUCNOST
Nemanja Jaramaz 65 Forward Serbia MEGA VIZURA
David Jelinek 65 Shooting Guard Czech Republic JUVENTUT BADALONA
Ilkan Karaman 69 Small Forward Turkey KARSIYAKA
Maxi Kleber 65 Forward Germany S. OLIVER BASKETS
Artem Klimenko 70 Center Russia AVTODOR
Louis Labeyrie 610 Power Forward/Center France HYERES-TOULON
Christophe Leonard 67 Small Forward France LE HAVRE
Oleksandr Lypovyy 67 Small Forward Ukraine BC DONETSK
Michal Michalak 65 Guard Poland LKS LODZ
Nenad Miljenovic 611 Center Serbia MEGA VIZURA
Riccardo Moraschini 65 Shooting Guard Italy VIRTUS BOLOGNA
Kyryl Natyazhko 611 Center Ukraine ARIZONA
Devon Van Oostrum 62 Point Guard England CAJA LABORAL
Kostantinos Papanikolaou 69 Small Forward Greece OLYMPIACOS
Mateusz Ponitka 65 Shooting Guard Poland PROKOM SOPOT
Artem Pustovy 71 Center Ukraine KHIMIK
Klemen Prepelic 63 Point Guard Slovenia HELIOS
Bogdon Radosavljevic 611 Center Serbia Germany BAYERN MUNCHEN
Dovydas Redikas 64 Point Guard Lithuania LIETUVOS RYTAS
Sasu Salin 63 Point/Shooting Guard Finland UNION OLIMPIJA LUBLIJANA
Sertac Sanli 70 Power Forward/Center Turkey GALATASARAY
Zisis Sarikopoulos 70 Center Greece PANIONIOS
Tomas Satoransky 67 Point/Shooting Guard Czech Republic CAJASOL
Tornike Shengelia 69 Power Forward Georgia CHARLEROI
Axel Toupane 67 Small Forward France STRASBOURG
Izzet Turkyilmaz 70 Center Turkey BANVIT
Edgaras Ulanovas 66 Small Forward Lithuania BALTAI KAUNAS
Maik Zirbes 610 Center Germany TRIER
Tomislav Zubcic 610 Power Forward Croatia CIBONA

Courtesy of www.hoopsworld.com


Bargnani and Belinelli to miss 2013 EuroBasket Qualifications - by Eurobasket News

Bad news for the Italian National Team. Andrea Bargnani (209-F/C-85) and Marco Belinelli (196-G-86) will not play for their country this summer in 2013 EuroBasket Qualifications. Bargnani, who had problems with injuries this season, decided to take a rest. Belinelli will be focused on getting the new contract in the NBA.
Andrea Bargnani had 22.8 ppg, 7.4 rpg and 1.6 bpg for 5 games at the EuroBasket in Poland. During the qualifications he was even better. For 8 games Bargnani registered 24.1 ppg, 6.6 rpg and 2 bpg. He played for Italy also at 2007 EuroBasket in Spain.
Marco Belinelli averaged 12 points, 3.2 assists and 2.8 rebounds last summer in Lithuania. He had 15.5 ppg, 4.3 rpg and 3 apg during the qualifications. Belinelli played for Italy at 2007 EuroBasket in Spain and also at 2006 World Championship in Japan.
Good news for Italy is that Danilo Gallinari (208-F-88, agency: Players Group) will play this summer. Alessandro Gentile (197-G/F-92) will most likley miss qualifications.


Cimberio Varese set to hire Frank Vitucci - by Eurobasket News

According to Italian media (Sportando), Francesco Vitucci will be the new Head Coach of Cimberio Varese. Reportedly, they already agreed terms and contract will be signed in the next few days. Vitucci spent last two years with Avellino. They were No.9 in the league this season with 15-17 record. Before Avelino, Vitucci coached Benetton Treviso. He was hired by Benetton as Assistant Coach in 2003 and finally in 2009 he got the promotion. However, Vitucci was Head Coach of the team for only few months as they parted ways in January of 2010. In the past, Francesco Vitucci coached Scafati and Imola. In 2009, he served as Assistant Coach in Italian National Team. They competed at Mediterranean Games and EuroBasket in Poland.


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  LEBANON   


Lebanon shoot down Syria in friendly - by Eurobasket News

Lebanon and Syria are getting ready for the upcoming WABA Championship. They played an exhibition encounter in Beirut recently. Lebanon came out winners 96:88. Fadi Khatib (199-F-79) exploded with 36 points in less than 25 minutes on the court to lead all scorers.
Lebanon and Syria will join Iran, Palestine, Jordan and Yemen in the quest for two qualifying spots at the 4th FIBA Asia Cup. The action starts on June 11 in Amman, Jordan.


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  LITHUANIA   


Zalgiris and Lietuvos Rytas to play only road games in LKL - by Eurobasket News

Given the intense schedules of the two strongest Lithuanian clubs, the Lithuanian League (LKL) board meeting voted in favour of B.C. Zalgiris Kaunas and Lietuvos Rytas Vilnius playing only away fixtures in the domestic league. The two clubs will play twelve games each, matching up with all the other LKL clubs one time each as well as having two games against each other to determine the top seed for the playoffs.
Everyone would like both of the big clubs to play in a proper two-round system, but the reality is what it is and we settled for a compromise, said the LKL president Sarunas Kliokys, who also revealed that there will likely be changes in the playoff system. Teams that will finish 5-8 in the regular season will play for a chance to make the quarterfinals, with the fifth seed playing against the eighth seed and the sixth seed playing against the seventh seed. The winner of the first pair would play the team that finished fourth in the regular season, while the winner of the second pair would play the third-placed team, with Lietuvos Rytas Vilnius and B.C. Zalgiris Kaunas joining in the playoffs only from the semifinals. However, these changes are yet to be approved by the league.
Courtesy of: lithuaniabasketball.com


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  MALI   


Rueil inks Ibrahim Saounera, David Cilly joins Berck - by Eurobasket News

Ibrahim Saounera (179-G-87) is a new member of Rueil. The Malian/French point guard left Cognac and signed a one-year deal with his new club. Saounera had 6.4 ppg, 1.9 apg and 1.7 rpg in 34 NM1 games this season. He joined Cognac in 2010 and managed to win NM2 Group B with them. It was enough for the promotion to NM1. Before Cognac, Saounera was a member of Boulazac and Reims.
NM2 team Berck penned a deal with David Cilly (196-G/F-81) for the next season. He spent last two in NM1 with Orchesien. For 36 games this season Cilly registered 8.8 ppg and 5.9 rpg. The player had slightly better numbers in 2010/11. In the past, Cilly played for Lievin, Longwy, Nantes and Boulazac. In 2005, he was NM1 champion with Boulazac.


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  MEXICO   

CIBACOPA Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Devon PEARSON
  Los M.
  (198-F-84)
  Avg: 27.6
 1. Pearson, Los M.27.6 
 2. Reese, Tepic24.4 
 3. Scott, Los Mochis22.9 
 4. Thomas, Cananea22.6 
 5. McCullough, Nogales22.3 
 6. Robinson, Culiacan22.1 
 7. Alexander, Cananea21.8 
 8. Carter, Guasave20.4 
 9. Selleaze, Navolato20.3 
 10. Wiley, Los Mochis19.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Deangelo RILEY
  Tepic
  (205-C-)
  Avg: 11.2
 1. Riley, Tepic11.2 
 2. Alexander, Cananea10.1 
 3. Pearson, Los M.10.0 
 4. Selleaze, Navolato8.4 
 5. Sanders-F., Nogales8.2 
 6. Scott, Los Mochis8.0 
 7. Robinson, Culiacan7.8 
 8. Moore, Navolato7.6 
 9. Habel, Guaymas7.6 
 10. Strobbe, Nogales7.4 
Assists Per Game
 William FUNN
  Los Mochis
  (188-G-82)
  Avg: 9.2
 1. Funn, Los Mochis9.2 
 2. Allen, Guaymas7.4 
 3. Monreal, Hermosillo5.8 
 4. Taylor, Los Mochis5.8 
 5. Hornsby, Tijuana4.6 
 6. Harris, Cananea4.6 
 7. Nungaray, Guaymas4.3 
 8. Riley, Tepic4.1 
 9. Pulido, Culiacan3.9 
 10. Quintero, Tijuana3.8 
Steals Per Game
 Brian HAMILTON
  Hermosillo
  (198-F-82)
  Avg: 2
 1. Hamilton, Hermosil.2.0 
 2. George, Nogales1.8 
 3. Gibson, Navolato1.6 
 4. Riley, Tepic1.5 
 5. Monreal, Hermosillo1.5 
 6. Thomas, Cananea1.4 
 7. Toussaint, Los M.1.3 
 8. Hornsby, Tijuana1.3 
 9. Gale, Nogales1.3 
 10. Carter, Guasave1.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Deangelo RILEY
  Tepic
  (205-C-)
  Avg: 3.5
 1. Riley, Tepic3.5 
 2. Habel, Guaymas1.4 
 3. Zamora, Culiacan1.3 
 4. Wiley, Los Mochis1.0 
 5. Young, Tepic0.9 
 6. Alexander, Cananea0.9 
 7. Davis, Nogales0.8 
 8. Robinson, Culiacan0.8 
 9. Scott, Los Mochis0.8 
 10. McCullough, Nogal.0.7 


Brazil edge Mexico in Caracas - by Eurobasket News

Brazil - Mexico 71:67

Brazil celebrated victory on the final day of Super 4 Cup tournament in Caracas. They defeated Mexico to improve at 1-2 record. Mineiro Ferreira (208-C/F-88) and Leonardo Klassman (209-C-89) accounted for 11 points each to lead Brazil.
Brazil strongly entered the game. They secured a 24:13 lead ten minutes into the game. The margin grew deeper throughout the second quarter. Brazil accumulated a 38:19 lead at the interval. Mexico tried to turn the tables in the third quarter. They narrowed the deficit at 12-point mark before Brazil restored a 17-point lead 56:39 heading into the fourth quarter. Mexico did not surrender as they went on a massive run to cut the distance to just three points 64:67 with just over a minute remaining. Brody Angey put Mexico within two points 67:69 with seconds left but Brazil answered with a bucket and sealed the victory. Rafael Freire (188-PG-92) and Vitor Benite (190-F/G-90) scored 9 points each for the winners. Victor Mariscal (198-F-72) answered with 14 points for Mexico. Brody Angley (180-PG-86, agency: JEMsports, college: Santa Clara) finished with 12 points in the loss.

Brazil: Mineiro Ferreira 11, Leonardo Klassman 11, Rafael Freire 9, Vitor Benite 9
Mexico: Victor Mariscal 14, Brody Angley 12


Tijuana and Hermosillo take 2-1 lead in CIBACOPA Semifinals (best-of-seven) - by Eurobasket News

Tijuana - Guaymas 94-92 OT (2-1)
The hosts trailed by 4 points after three quarters before their 21-17 charge, which allowed them to tie the game at the end of regular time and get a 2-point victory in overtime. Tijuana Zonkeys shot 27 for 40 from the free-throw line, while Ostioneros de Guaymas only scored nine points from the stripe. Tijuana Zonkeys forced 27 Ostioneros de Guaymas turnovers. Ostioneros de Guaymas were plagued by 28 personal fouls down the stretch. The best player for the winners was point guard Elvis Medina (183-PG-84, college: Arizona W. CC) (183-84, college: Arizona W. CC) who scored 23 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals. point guard Luis Ramirez (180-82) chipped in 20 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. At the other side the best for losing team was American point guard Myron Allen (182-79, college: Lee JC) who recorded a double-double by scoring 22 points and 10 assists and the other American import forward Jerome Habel (208-85, college: San Diego St.) added 18 points and 6 rebounds respectively. Five Tijuana Zonkeys and four Ostioneros de Guaymas players scored in double figures. Ostioneros de Guaymas' coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
Guaymas: M.Allen 22+3reb+10ast, J.Habel 18+6reb+3ast, F.Benitez 12+10reb, H.Johnson 11+8reb, A.Pedroza 10+4reb+1ast, H.Carrillo 8+5reb+4ast
Tijuana: E.Medina 23+6reb+4ast, L.Ramirez 20+6reb+4ast, M.Morrison 18+4reb+6ast, C.Tate 17+10reb+1ast, A.Solares 12+12reb, L.Rodriguez Sainz 2+3reb
gschID: 177505


Los Mochis - Hermosillo 79-85 (1-2)
The guests took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 23-19. But Pioneros Los Mochis won second period 18-15. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Rayos de Hermosillo had a 31-20 advantage in offensive rebounds. The best player for the winners was naturalized American point guard Steve Monreal (180-86, college: CS Monterey) who scored 16 points and 8 assists. American forward Emmanuel Little (196-85, college: N.Dakota) chipped in 6 points, 15 rebounds and 4 assists. Little is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Rayos de Hermosillo's coach Dan Tacheny used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. At the other side the best for losing team was American guard William Funn (188-82, college: Portland St.) who recorded a double-double by scoring 20 points, 7 rebounds, 10 assists and 5 steals and the other American import forward Seth Scott (208-81, college: Portland St.) added 21 points and 8 rebounds respectively. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Los Mochis: S.Scott 21+8reb+1ast, W.Funn 20+7reb+10ast, D.Pearson 16+5reb+1ast, E.Cuen 10+6reb+2ast, E.Hare 7+6reb+2ast, P.Torres 3+1reb
Hermosillo: S.Monreal 16+2reb+8ast, P.Sanders 14+2reb+4ast, B.Hamilton 12+4reb, J.Camacho 12+6reb, J.Coronado 10+6reb, J.Manuel Esteva 8+2reb+1ast

Fourth games will be played today.


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  MONTENEGRO   


Mihailo Pavicevic returns to Finland - by Darko Pekic

According to Finnish media, the head coach of U21 NT of Montenegro and Mornar Mihailo Pavicevic will make a come back in Finland and into Finnish basketball courts. Pavicevic and Torpan Pojat (Helsinki) have agreed terms and the 54 year old Montenegrin coach will lead ToPo in the Korisliiga next year. Pavicevic is a well known name in Finalnd. He coached Honka (Espoo) for nine years and led them to five Finnish championships and one Finnish Cup victory. Such players as Petteri Koponen (194-G-88) and Sasu Salin (190-PG-91) can also be grateful to Pavicevic for their successful careers.

ToPo finished this season with 21-19 record and the management is looking to start a new era with Pavicevic as their head coach.


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  NBA   

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Kobe BRYANT
  LA Lakers
  (198-G-78)
  Avg: 28.2
 1. Bryant, LA Lakers28.2 
 2. Durant, Oklah.Ci.27.9 
 3. James, Miami Heat27.7 
 4. Love, Minnesota T.26.0 
 5. Westbrook, Oklah..23.2 
 6. Anthony, New Y.23.1 
 7. Wade, Miami Heat22.4 
 8. Nowitzki, Dallas M.22.0 
 9. Rose, Chicago B.21.9 
 10. Aldridge, Portlan.21.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Dwight HOWARD
  Orlando M.
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 14.5
 1. Howard, Orlando M.14.5 
 2. Love, Minnesota T.13.4 
 3. Bynum, LA Lakers11.7 
 4. Cousins, Sacramen.11.0 
 5. Humphries, New J.11.0 
 6. Gasol, LA Lakers10.3 
 7. Griffin, LA Clipp.10.3 
 8. Gortat, Phoenix10.0 
 9. Smith, Atlanta H.9.9 
 10. Chandler, New Y.9.8 
Assists Per Game
 Rajon RONDO
  Boston C.
  (185-PG-86)
  Avg: 11.8
 1. Rondo, Boston C.11.8 
 2. Nash, Phoenix Suns10.7 
 3. Paul, LA Clippers8.9 
 4. Calderon, Toron.8.8 
 5. Williams, New J.8.7 
 6. Rubio, Minnesot.8.2 
 7. Wall, Washington W.8.0 
 8. Rose, Chicago B.7.9 
 9. Parker, San A.7.5 
 10. Conley, Memphis G.6.7 
Steals Per Game
 Chris PAUL
  LA Clippers
  (183-PG-85)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Paul, LA Clippers2.5 
 2. Rubio, Minnesot.2.2 
 3. Conley, Memphis G.2.1 
 4. Rondo, Boston C.1.9 
 5. James, Miami Heat1.9 
 6. Kidd, Dallas M.1.8 
 7. Millsap, Utah Jazz1.8 
 8. Allen, Memphis G.1.7 
 9. Iguodala, Philadel.1.7 
 10. Shumpert, New Y.1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Serge IBAKA
  Oklah.Ci.
  (208-C/F-89)
  Avg: 3.6
 1. Ibaka, Oklah.Ci.3.6 
 2. McGee, Washingt.2.5 
 3. Howard, Orlando M.2.1 
 4. Bynum, LA Lakers2.1 
 5. Hibbert, Indiana P.2.1 
 6. Jordan, LA Clippers2.0 
 7. McGee, Denver N.2.0 
 8. Gasol, Memphis G.1.9 
 9. Biyombo, Charlott.1.8 
 10. Udoh, Golde S.1.7 


Rey Allen's improved health coming at perfect time for C's - by Eurobasket News

The Boston Celtics are a different-looking team these days, and Ray Allen (6'5''-G-75, college: Connecticut) has a lot to do with that.

Allen is starting to move without the ball and raise up for shots -- and knock them down -- in a fashion that's similar to what we've seen from him in the past.

The ankle injury that hobbled him for weeks, Allen said, isn't nearly as bothersome anymore.

'Just going into the game, starting the game, having my legs underneath me is for me it's a huge deal now,' said Allen, who had 16 points on 6-for-16 shooting from the field. 'How I feel now is a lot different from how I start the game.'

And with Allen getting healthier, that only makes the challenge awaiting the Miami Heat more difficult, as the series shifts back to Miami for Game 5. The winner of that game will have a chance to close the series in Boston in Game 6.

For Allen, the improved health has been nothing short of a miracle when you consider where he was at just a few short weeks ago.

'At my lowest point, I was ready to have surgery,' Allen said. 'I didn't think that I would get any better, because I was doing all the things I needed to do, treatment-wise, and just staying off of it. It didn't seem like it was going to get any better.'

But it has improved to the point where it's not a question as to whether he'll play, but how long will Rivers stick with him and how effective will he be.

'It just progressively got better over time,' Allen said. 'We'll see how I deal with it once the season is over.'

For Allen and the rest of the Celtics, they're hoping that day won't come anytime soon.

Courtesy of http://www.csnne.com


Brooklyn Nets to go after Ersan Ilyasova? - by Eurobasket News

The Brooklyn Nets have the potential to be big buyers this upcoming offseason. One target that has been thrown around the rumor mill for the Nets. Milwaukee Bucks forward Ersan Ilyasova (6'10''-F-87) has been the guy that could be heading east to join the Nets in Brooklyn after finishing second in Most Improved Player of the Year voting.

The Nets have been interested in the Bucks forward throughout the year and could have traded for him a few times during the 2011-12 season but missed out a few times. The Nets decision making on Ilyasova is going to depend on how much money the spend to re-sign all of their impending free agents. Ilyasova could be worth at an upwards of $8 million this season.

The Bucks are interested in re-signing Ilyasova but Milwaukee GM John Hammond admitted that re-signing the Turkish star is going to be difficult. The Bucks do own the Bird rights on him and will have a ton of cap space to make him a very competitive offer but Ilyasova is likely to get a better offer on the open market.

Ilyasova will have to compete on the open market with other key free agents like the San Antonio Spurs forward Tim Duncan and Boston Celtics forward Kevin Garnett. The plus-side for Ilyasova is that out of all the competitors looking for a big deal, Ilyasova is only 25 and is likely to get a long-term contract.

Last season, llyasova improved from 9.5 points per game to 13.0 points per game as well as improving his rebounds per game average from 6.1 to 8.8. Ilyasova will probably get a big contract but he will have to continue playing at the great improving pace that he has been playing at.

Courtesy of www.rantsports.com


Celtics take control of East, beat Heat 94-90 - by Eurobasket News

A week ago, the Boston Celtics were too old.

Three games later, they're one win away from the NBA finals.

And Miami - the team that was constructed with hopes of supplanting Boston as the power in the Eastern Conference - is suddenly in big trouble.

Kevin Garnett (6'11''-F-76) finished with 26 points and 11 rebounds, Paul Pierce (6'7''-F/G-77, college: Kansas) scored 19 - including a huge 3-pointer over LeBron James' (6'8''-F-84) outstretched arm with 52.9 seconds left - and the Celtics beat the Heat 94-90 on Tuesday night, taking a 3-2 lead in the East finals that now shift to Boston for Game 6 on Thursday night.

'We've done nothing,' Celtics coach Doc Rivers said. 'We're playing a heck of a basketball team. So just because we're going to Boston, I told them, we have to play. They're not going to give it to us. We have to go get it.'

James finished with 30 points and 13 rebounds for Miami, though he went 8 minutes without scoring in the final quarter. Dwyane Wade (6'4''-G-82, college: Marquette) scored 27 for the Heat, who got no more than nine from anyone else.

'We wouldn't want to be in this situation but we never get too high or too low in a series,' James said. 'We had an opportunity to come home and take a lead, but we didn't. So we have to go up to Boston and win a game.'

Pierce's 3 put Boston up 90-86. Miami got within two points twice, and argued that it should have had a steal with 8.8 seconds left. Instead, a foul was called on Udonis Haslem (6'8''-F-80, college: Florida), Garnett made two free throws, and the Celtics knew they had just stolen one on Miami's home floor.

Now all they need is one home win of their own to clinch a trip to either Oklahoma City or San Antonio for Game 1 of the NBA finals. The title series starts June 12.

'Right now,' Celtics guard Ray Allen said, 'the next game is Game 7.'

The Celtics were down by 13 points in the second quarter, then down nine in the third, and answered both times - prevailing on a night where they shot just 41 percent, and got outrebounded 49-39.

'We stayed with it,' Garnett said. 'We had a rough first quarter, first half. We got our stops and made our run ourselves. And when we had to, we had stops.'

Allen and Mickael Pietrus (6'6''-G/F-82, agency: Court Side) scored 13 apiece for the Celtics, who got 10 from Brandon Bass. Pietrus hit two huge 3-pointers in the fourth quarter for Boston, which remained perfect with this core when facing maybe the most pivotal situation a best-of-seven can offer - a Game 5 with a series tied 2-2.

Pierce, Garnett, Rajon Rondo and Ray Allen are now 9-0 in that scenario.

'We came in with the right focus,' Pierce said. 'That was key for us.'

So Game 5s are magical for Boston. Sometimes, they are for James as well.

And sometimes - this one included - they're not.

James' most memorable moments have come in Game 5s, like the epic 48 points where he just carried Cleveland on every possession down the stretch at Detroit in 2007, and the 120-88 loss to the Celtics in 2010, his last home game with the Cavaliers.

This one offered more theater, of course. James hit a 3-pointer to give Miami a two-point lead with 8:10 left, closed out on Pierce to force an airball on the next possession, and eventually Miami pushed the margin out to 78-72 on a layup by Wade with 6:17 to play. On that play, James looked gassed, gasping for air as he stood near the baseline.

Those might have been the last gasps the Miami home crowd sees this season. Boston closed on a 22-12 run.

'Every time we got them down, they made runs,' James said. 'They made us stagnant offensively, got stops and got back in the game.'

Boston tied the game twice early in the third quarter, before Miami peeled off nine straight points to go up 59-50. Four players scored for the Heat during that quick burst, highlighted by Shane Battier's corner 3-pointer and a lazy turnover from Rondo, who threw the ball into the backcourt without being pressured by any Miami defender.

But just as they did in the first half when Miami looked poised to pull away, the Celtics rallied - and then some. A 15-1 run gave the Celtics a truckload of momentum and 65-60 lead going into the fourth, capped by Keyon Dooling connecting on a 3-pointer from near the Miami bench with 2 seconds left.

There were four lead changes in the fourth quarter, and the game was tied for the final time when Wade made an acrobatic layup with 1:39 to play.

Miami never led again.

'We played hard,' Battier said. 'We just didn't play intelligent.'

Miami didn't lead by more than eight points at any time in the three previous games of the series. The Heat changed that quickly, and maybe it was fitting that Chris Bosh got them their first double-digit advantage since Game 1.

Bosh came off the bench for his first minutes since straining a lower abdominal muscle in Game 1 of Miami's second-round series against Indiana. His three-point play with 1:17 left in the opening quarter - punctuated with a stare-down for some cheering fans - capped a 24-13 Miami run to open the game. James made a 3-pointer with 9:39 left in the half, and the Heat went up 31-18.

The Celtics did what Miami did to them in Games 3 and 4 at Boston. They started chipping away.

Miami missed 15 of its final 17 shots of the first half, with four turnovers thrown in there as well, and the Celtics took advantage. After James' 3-pointer, Boston outscored Miami 22-11 to close the second quarter - Garnett got six of his eight first-half points in the final 3:09 - and the once-sizable Heat lead was down to 42-40 by intermission.

'We just told our guys, 'Hang in there, just hang in there, don't overreact,'' Rivers said. 'The longer we're in the game, the better we'll play.'

That was the way Game 5 went.

And the series has gone the same way.

NOTES: Dorell Wright, a member of the 2006 Heat championship team and now with Golden State, was in attendance. A denim-vested Amare Stoudemire of the New York Knicks - Miami's first-round playoff foe - was seated courtside, and former Celtic Glen Davis was near the Boston bench. ... Wade scored seven points in the first 4:22 of the game. He didn't score again in the first half, and after scoring 26 points by halftime of the series-clincher against Indiana, he has 29 points in five first halves against Boston in this series. ... Pierce said before the game that he does not expect to need offseason surgery to repair the sprained MCL in his left knee. 'No complaints,' Pierce said.

Courtesy of www.ktvn.com


Lakers pick up Andrew Bynum's contract option for 2012-13 season - by Eurobasket News

The Los Angeles Lakers picked up the contract option of All-Star center Andrew Bynum (7'0''-C-87, agency: David Lee services) for the 2012-13 National Basketball Association season.

The Lakers, whose season ended with a second-round playoff loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, didnt disclose financial terms of the option in a statement yesterday. The Los Angeles Times has reported its worth $16.1 million.

Bynum, 24, averaged a career-high 18.7 points and 11.8 rebounds while playing in 60 of the Lakers 66 games this season. He averaged 16.7 points, 11.1 rebounds and 3.1 blocks in the playoffs, though he was limited to 10 points and four rebounds in a season-ending Game 5 loss to the Thunder.

Bynum told reporters after that loss that it doesnt matter where he played next season. The Lakers 2005 first- round draft pick later said he wanted to return to Los Angeles.

Bynum has won two NBA titles in his seven seasons with the Lakers, averaging 11.7 points, 7.8 rebounds and 1.6 blocks.

Courtesy of www.bloomberg.com


New Orleans Hornets begin workouts of prospects - by Eurobasket News

The New Orleans Hornets are working out prospects at the Alario Center today, the first of two sessions they're conducting.

The guys working out this morning are: Tyler Zeller (7'0''-F-90), a 7-foot center from North Carolina, John Henson (6'11''-F-90) a 6-11 power forward from North Carolina, Meyers Leonard (7'1''-C-92) a 7-1 center from Illinois, Arnett Moultrie (6'11''-F-90) a 6-11 power forward/center from Mississippi State and Terrence Jones (6'9''-F-92) a 6-9 power forward from Kentucky.

All of the prospects the Hornets are working out today are players they are targeting for their No. 10 pick in the first round.

Hanson is projected to go as high as ninth on some mock drafts. He was a second team All-ACC selection and averaged 11.7 points last season.

Some mock drafts have Jones being selected as late as 20th. He averaged 15.7 points and 8.8 rebounds last season for Kentucky, who won the national championship.

Zeller is considered to be a safe pick, a four-year player with good post skills. He improved every year at North Carolina and averaged 16.3 points and 9.6 rebounds last season.

Courtesy of www.nola.com


Carmelo Anthony says Knicks 'can start building' with Woodson - by Eurobasket News

Carmelo Anthony (6'8''-F-84, college: Syracuse) said he was proud of what the Knicks accomplished this past season, but hes not too keen on looking back. The pain of losing in the playoffs and all that. So hed rather look ahead.

Anthony wont play general manager and address the areas where the Knicks need to fortify themselves in the Miami stratosphere, but he is excited about the prospects of going into training camp with familiar faces who went through the playoff grind and are accustomed to coach Mike Woodson who will be running his first Knicks preseason.

'That's big', Anthony said Monday of having Woodson in place. 'I think coming into camp if you can have a group of guys thats known playing with each other, thats been around guys, been around each other for a long period of time, you start building from there, you start getting used to each other. '

Anthony appeared at the Flatiron District for an event promoted by Jeep and Team USA. Fans were shooting free throws in drizzle and wind for a chance to win the grand prize a trip to Las Vegas for a Team USA exhibition game. The London Olympics will take up a large portion of Anthonys plate this summer. But he welcomes the event.

'I look forward to that just from the simple fact that it takes away time that I can sit home and keep reflecting on the past season. I dont want to think about that. Im trying to move on from that, trying to get better for next season. The Olympics, it will ease my pain a little bit', Anthony said.

And while that will help the mind, some rest has already helped the body.

'After the season I took about two weeks off to let my body heal. But now Im back in the gym, back in the lab. I'm getting ready', Anthony said.

Courtesy of www.nypost.com


Memphis Grizzlies expected to shop Rudy Gay this offseason - by Eurobasket News

The Memphis Grizzlies will consider trading Rudy Gay (6'9''-F/G-86, college: Connecticut) this offseason, league sources told Hoops Worlds Alex Kennedy.

Gay, 25, is owed $53 million over the next three seasons. He has been mentioned in trade rumors over the past two seasons, but Kennedy reports things should grow more serious this summer.

The report lists the Golden State Warriors, Toronto Raptors, Brooklyn Nets and Orlando Magic as teams possibly interested in Gay.

The Grizzlies fell to the Los Angeles Clippers in the first round of the playoffs this year. Gay averaged 19 points per game in the series but shot only 21 percent from behind the three-point line.

In 2011, with Gay sidelined with an injury, the team advanced to the second round.

Courtesy of http://tracking.si.com


Blazers hire Neil Olshey as new general manager - by Eurobasket News

The Trail Blazers have hired former Los Angeles Clippers general manager Neil Olshey to serve in the same role with Portland.

The announcement by the Blazers on Monday came less than an hour after the Clippers revealed that they and Olshey had decided to part ways.

Last season, Olshey oversaw a major retooling of the Clippers that included signing All-Star point guard Chris Paul in December as part of the biggest trade in franchise history. In the same six-day span, Olshey signed All-Stars Caron Butler and Chauncey Billups, and re-signed DeAndre Jordan.

The Clippers finished 40-26 and reached the second round of the playoffs.

'I am very grateful for the opportunity to become a part of this successful franchise,'' Olshey said in a statement released by the Blazers. 'Portland is a great basketball city with a rich tradition, an incredible fan base and committed leadership. I'm joining an organization that has a strong foundation and a bright future.''

The Blazers have been operating under interim GM Chad Buchanan for the past year. Buchanan, the team's director of college scouting, took over when the team fired Rich Cho after about 10 months on the job.

Olshey becomes the 10th general manager in Blazers history.

'Neil is someone we've had on our radar for quite a while. Over the past two seasons he has demonstrated success in constructing a roster, managing salary cap and evaluating player talent,'' Blazers President Larry Miller said in a statement. 'We feel very fortunate to have him in Portland and are thrilled about what this means for the future.''

The Blazers say they are planning a news conference for Tuesday.

Last week, the Clippers announced that they had reached an agreement in principle to bring Olshey back. Team president Andy Roeser said circumstances had changed since the announcement Friday.

'In light of that, we want to wish Neil well and acknowledge his contributions during the time he spent with the Clippers,'' Roeser said.

The 47-year-old Olshey had been with the Clippers for nine years, including stints as director of player development, assistant coach, director of player personnel and assistant GM.

He finished third last month in voting for the NBA's Executive of the Year for the 2011-2012 season.

'He has the skills and the vision to successfully guide our organization into a new era of Trail Blazers basketball,'' owner Paul Allen said in a statement released by the Blazers. 'He's proven that he can quickly turn around a franchise, and we are confident he can do that in Portland.''

Now that the Blazers have a general manager they can turn their attention to hiring a new head coach. The team dismissed Nate McMillan at the trade deadline after more than six seasons at the helm. Assistant Kaleb Canales served as coach the rest of the season.

The Blazers finished the lockout-shortened season 28-38 and out of the playoffs for the first time in four years.

And it was a campaign fraught with turmoil. Portland learned at the opening of training camp that three-time All-Star Brandon Roy was retiring because of ongoing issues with both knees. They also found out that center Greg Oden, the No. 1 pick of the 2007 draft, had suffered yet another setback with his surgically repaired knees. Portland would later waive Oden after he played in only 82 games in nearly five seasons.

Portland again enters an offseason in rebuilding mode, with four picks - including No. 6 and No. 11 - in the June draft. The team also has up to $24 million in cap space to work with on the free agent market.

Buchanan has said the priorities are re-signing French forward Nicolas Batum, and bringing in a quality point guard and big man.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com


Wizards officially name Randy Wittman head coach - by Eurobasket News

The Washington Wizards officially named Randy Wittman as their new head coach Monday, sticking with him despite a dismal 18-31 record last season.

We are excited to bring Randy back as head coach and give him the opportunity to build on the positive momentum that the team showed under his leadership last season, Wizards President Ernie Grunfeld said in a news conference.

Wittman replaced Flip Saunders, who was fired early in the season after a 2-15 start.

Under Wittman, the young Wizards had shown renewed energy and closed their campaign with a season-high six-game winning streak.

We were very pleased with the development of our young players and the commitment to winning he instilled despite taking over the team under difficult circumstances, Grunfeld added.

Im very appreciative of the opportunity that Mr. Leonsis and Ernie have given me and Im thrilled to be returning to work with these players and this organization, said Wittman.

Wittman believes that the Wizards had made significant strides last season which they can use to further improve as they prepare for their next campaign.

We are all looking forward to having a full summer, training camp and season to continue to improve this team, he said.

Wittman is expected to build his team around former No. 1 pick John Wall, who campaigned for his return as Wizards coach.

Prior to his stint with the Wizards, Wittman was head coach of the Minnesota Timberwolves from 2006 to 2009) and the Cleveland Cavaliers from 1999 to 2001.

He had served as the Wizards lead assistant since the 2009-10 season prior to being named head coach last season.

Wittman has a career coaching record of 118-238 (win-loss).

Courtesy of http://gantdaily.com


Report: De Colo to join Spurs - by Eurobasket News

It was reported here at Project Spurs that San Antonio Spurs 2009 draftee Nando De Colo (6'8''-G-87) was set to sign with Barcelona after this season with Valencia which would have all but ended any possibility of him joining the Spurs anytime soon.

However, according to Spanish site Encestando, De Colo will be joining the Spurs next season.

Nando Colo most likely played his last game last night in the League Endesa. We expect that the (he will join) the San Antonio Spurs, which is the franchise that has his rights. The deal closed for weeks and only awaiting official confirmation and Valencia Basket does know.

The report goes on to state that the French guard will play an exhibition game in Spain with Barcelona and Madrid but will eventually join San Antonio.

In his last game with Valencia Basket, Nando finished with 22 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists in the ACB tournament losing to FCB Regal 3-1 in their semi finals series.

If the report is true then this shakes things up at the guard spot. De Colo doesn't have much quickness but can handle the ball, can find the open player, and could prove to be an adequate backup for Tony Parker. Also, he is a big guard at 6'5' which is an advantage the team would like to have.

This season with Valencia, Nando shot 46.2% from the field, 36% from the three-point line, averaged 3 rebounds, 13.5 points, 2.9 assists, 1.5 steals, but did turn the ball over 2.1 times a game. That's not a good assist-to-turnover ratio for a point guard.

However, if the team decides to make him the backup point guard, then what will happen to Gary Neal who is a free agent after this season and has been used as a point guard at times? James Anderson is probably not going to be with the team next season (since the Spurs did not pick up his option this season) so perhaps this just pushes Neal back to the shooting guard role. Also, Cory Joseph should improve next season with a full training camp under his belt and with a full 82-game season but will DeColo, a player who has been playing professionally for year, stunt Cory's development?

There is the option the Spurs could send him to the Toros should he still need to work on his game before stepping foot on an NBA court.

Moreover, Parker and De Colo will be playing together this summer for the French national team for the 2012 Olympic games so do not expect him to be playing with the Spurs' Summer League team with him training for the Olympics.

One this is for sure, should De Colo join San Antonio, the team sure will have the French fan market cornered with the possibility of the Spurs having three French players (Parker, Boris Diaw, and De Colo) on the roster next season.

What do you have to say Spurs fans? Chime on in.

Courtesy of http://projectspurs.com


From Canton, Ohio, McCollum Brothers' Grind To Glory - by David Pick

Former Goshen College standout Errick McCollum, who spent the past two seasons playing professional basketball in Israel , was eager to hit the gym with his brother and Lehigh star C.J. McCollum, as the two ballers prepared for what could possibly become a career changing season for each of them.

Interrupting their post workout jump shots at Walsh University in North Canton, Errick answered his cellular phone and on the line, 6,000 miles away, there I was.

'We workout every day and push each other all the time,' said Errick, the oldest of the two siblings, explaining how competitive basketball gets when played with brothers. 'We share similar moves and play the same guard positions. C.J.'s a little bigger than I am which is kind of a challenge,' he continued, while contemplating the challenge of hoisting shots over his 20-year-old sibling.

Catching a breather between workouts, C.J., a projected 2013 NBA Draft Lottery pick, inspires himself and Errick to continue their on-court battles by pointing to American professional boxer Floyd Mayweather for inspiration, 'whenever we get tired, I remind Errick how much money Mayweather is earning.'

A college senior, Errick, known to his locker room buddies as 'Lil' E,' was named Goshen College's all-time leading scorer and the program's first-ever NAIA DII First Team All American selection. The 24-year-old recently came off back-to-back seasons of professional ball in Israel.

After getting spotty minutes during his rookie season with Division I Barak Netanya, the 6-foot-1 McCollum returned to the Holy Land, this time, joining the struggling Hapoel Kfar Saba of the minor league. Errick instantly showed ultra scoring potential, helping Hapoel battle through the delegation playoffs en route to becoming the league's most versatile scorer, averaging 24.3 points, 3 assists and 8 rebounds per game.

'My season with Netanya didn't go as expected, but I'm happy I got the opportunity to compete against players on the highest level,' said Errick. 'I'm just waiting to get my chance to compete at a high level again. I performed well in the second division, but I think I'll show everybody what I'm capable of when the opportunity comes at a top division somewhere, and I'm going to keep preparing until that time comes.'

The McCollums need to prove themselves while constantly being doubted by others defines their hardwood struggles throughout their careers.

Wrapping up their daily workout, our phone interview moved location from WU's training facility to Errick's light blue 4X4 Dodge Durango. C.J. took charge of the steering wheel and the boys set out on their eight minute drive home.

Having decided to return to Lehigh for his senior year, analysts compared C.J.'s decision not to enter the upcoming draft to that of Golden State Warrior Stephen Curry. Like C.J., Curry attended at a Mid-major college in Davidson. Curry, who played NCAA hoops throughout his junior year, decided to stay in school one more season instead of entering the draft as sophomore. That said, Curry's stock rose to the top 10 selections and McCollum, who was predicted by various mock drafts to be chosen anywhere from late first round to early second, has already upped his value, and is expected to be a lottery draftee next June.

'I was hearing my name going late first early second round so it was definitely a tough decision but I felt that coming back to school would be the best opportunity for me not only on the court but also in the classroom,' said C.J., who prior to making his decision, made sure to call Israel to consult his older brother. 'Errick played a large role in my decision. He supported me, gave me feedback and he knows I think highly of him. He said he'd have my back with any decision I make whether being school or the NBA. He felt like I couldn't make the wrong decision.'

Despite his expected success, C.J., a two-time Patriot League player of the year, was forced throughout his career to take the hard road. He was always carefully watched, but teams questioned his ability to play at a high level. Even after dropping 30 points on the mighty Duke Blue Devils in the second round of the NCAA tournament, McCollum was doubted.

'NBA scouts came to watch C.J. play because he was always on their radar. He dominated his conference and was playing great but the fact that he went to a Mid-major college left a question mark,' Errick noted.

'We knew he could play,' Errick said. 'Our family, friends and anyone who ever played C.J. knew what he was capable of. C.J. would always hear people mumble, 'well, he's in a smaller school, or not in a big conference or this or that', there was always an excuse. The Duke game was C.J.'s opportunity to confirm what we already knew. And he did just that.'

Errick, who first left the United States in 2010 to play professionally, never had the opportunity as a spectator to watch his younger brother play. 'When I was a senior he was a freshman and our schedules overlapped. In Israel we played in two leagues and my season ended after C.J.'s,' he said.

Nonetheless, this past November, Errick's wish came true. 'I got to see C.J. play in person for the first time in his college career. I left for Israel after the season there started, so I caught Lehigh's ESPN game against St. John in New York. We lost but that didn't matter. It was probably my first and last college game to physically see him play so I was proud of the way he played.'

While in Israel, Errick watched on the screen, 'I stayed up all night watching all of C.J.'s games. Israel's time zone is roughly seven hours ahead so games would come on at 3 a.m.' Looking back on his sleepless nights, Errick recalls one in particular. 'It was the night of the Duke game in the second round of the NCAA tourney. People here went clubbing but I stayed home to catch the game. My neighbors went crazy. I was yelling at the television screen, my phone was blowing up and I was rooting for Lehigh so loudly. I always watched C.J. play and I'll always be on his back telling him what he needs to work on and improve.'

Despite the obvious differences, C.J. compares his basketball journey to that of his brother, both on and off the court. 'We went through similar things in basketball. We were both doubted from a very young age but we shared the same goals and aspirations,' he says.

'The difference between college and playing pro is that its a business. It's kind of similar to recruiting when college coaches tell you they'll give you all the minutes or play you at a certain position just to get you on board. Professional teams will do or say whatever so that you join their ball club. Then, when you get there, things just change and it's out of your control. That's what happened to Errick his first year overseas. Knowing that, you just gotta work as hard as you can everyday and when given an opportunity, take advantage of it.'

As Errick watches his younger sibling grow into a national star, he is still searching for a new post next season. 'I love Israel, but I'm waiting for the right opportunity to go back,' said Errick. 'Any Division I level overseas that is a good situation is where I'm aiming to play at right now.'

C.J.? He's focusing on improving as a player and getting ready for another season of college hoops. Lehigh's standout spends his off season breaking down the repertoire of Oklahoma City Thunder's All-Star point guard Russell Westbrook and the Warriors' Curry. 'I really try to feed off of what those guys are doing. I study their moves and try to become better as a player. Curry and I went through similar situations so I try to implement his strengths on the court and learn as much as possible from him,' C.J. concluded.

The McCollum brothers are also training for the upcoming Cleveland Pro-Am summer league. Being natives of Canton, Errick and C.J. are the only two 'foreign' players to join Akron's finest and compete for back-to-back summer league titles.




Bosh looking like he will be active tonight. - by Bryan Floyd

According to The Miami Herald, there is a very good chance that Chris Bosh (6'11''-F-84, college: Georgia Tech) will be returning for Game 5 tonight. Although Bosh remains a game-time decision, barring a setback he will be active tonight. LeBron James said that Bosh has looked 'great' in recent days, but Dwyane Wade downplayed his return, saying, 'Hes been out for a while ... its going to take him awhile to get his rhythm back.' The Heat have really missed Bosh in a number of ways, but returning to soon if he is not ready could hurt both the team and Bosh moving forward. Either way tonight is a huge game for both teams.


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  NBLCANADA   


Lightning retain MVP, four others - by Eurobasket News

The London Lightning have begun preparations for their second National Basketball League of Canada season by submitting their five-player protected list to the NBL.

The defending NBL champions have protected Gabe Freeman (6'6''-F-85, college: Costa Mesa JC), the leagues most valuable player last year, Tim Ellis (6'4''-G-81, college: Kansas St.), Eddie Smith (6'2''-G-83, college: Ill.-Springfield), DeAnthony Bowden (6'1''-G-80, college: Creighton) and Shamari Spears (6'6''-F-86, college: Charlotte).

Players who are not on the protected list can negotiate with other teams.

Lightning general manager Taylor Brown says now that the lists are in recruiting will start in a big way.

(Lightning coach) Micheal Ray Richardson will be in town next week and we will hit the road, Brown said.

The Lightning are also planning at least two open tryouts, including one in Michigan.

The seven-team league had a successful first year of operation and will most likely expand for its second year. The emphasis for expansion would be in Ontario, where only the Oshawa Power and Lightning had franchises.

Five groups, St. Catharines, Mississauga, Ottawa, Windsor and Kitchener, have until June 15 to hand the league a $50,000 refundable deposit as well as having deals in place with facilities where they want to play.

There was also some discussion about Sydney, N.S having an interest in a franchise but that appears to have lagged. The only other major change will have the Quebec Kebs moving from Quebec and playing out of another undetermined location in the province.

Courtesy of www.lfpress.com


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  NCAA1   


Poland U20 lost two to Athletes in Action - by Eurobasket News

Polish U20 National Team played two friendly encounters against Athletes in Action selection in Katowice. The US team celebrated two comfortable victories.
The first game ended with AIA claiming a 99:64 win. Brady Heslip (187-G-90) stepped up with 21 points to lead the winners. Jamil Wilson (200-F-90) topscored with 22 points for AIA team. Jaroslaw Zyskowski (201-G-92) answered with 13 points for Poland. Maciej Kucharek (204-SF-93) finished with 12 points in the loss.
The next game was once again a one-way traffic. Athletes in Action dominated from start to finish to record a well-deserved 103:81 victory. Brady Heslip exploded with 41 points to lead the winners. Jamil Wilson produced 18 points, while Deuce Bello (193-G-92) contributed 13 in the winning case. Michal Michalak (194-G-93, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) answered with 17 points for Poland. Przemyslaw Karnowski (214-C-93) netted 11 points in the losing effort.


New UConn AD says he has no doubt Calhoun is back next season - by Eurobasket News

Jim Calhoun has done this to himself. Since he's decided to take the past few offseasons with an as-it-comes approach, speculation about his future, especially where I live, here in Connecticut, bubbles up with regularity between April and mid-July.

Then he's spotted or reported on the recruiting trail, and his return is deemed imminent, Calhoun playing none the wiser and happily stringing the media along. He's made claims about releasing a decision about his future in offseasons' past, but it's never come to be.

Last year, he just went about his life, we twiddled our thumbs as the weeks passed. Then Calhoun showed up at preseason media day, and that was it. Let's do this thing again, for the 40th time. In Calhoun's mind, there was never much of a question about coming back. With two years remaining on his contract, that cycle is likely to repeat itself twice more before things really begin to change in Storrs.

Yes, it's becoming increasingly clear that Calhoun will be there on the sidelines, scolding and scowling next season, when UConn won't be playing for anything but pride, really. This assurance comes from the mind and mouth of new wunderkind AD Warde Manuel, who has had quite the respectable, lasting impression in his short few months at his new post. You'll recall Manuel recently publicly stated that the transition from Calhoun to the next UConn coach, whenever that may be, will more or less be his decision, not Calhoun's.

Manuel told Hartford Courant columnist Jeff Jacobs that Calhoun's return comes with no doubt.

Is there any doubt in your mind that Jim Calhoun , at 70, is coming back next season?

'No,' Manuel said.

He's going to coach next season?

'Yep,' Manuel said, 'all indications to me, in conversations, yeah. I haven't worried about that based on our conversations. I don't have any doubt.'

The interview -- again, linked right above the dropquote -- covers a lot of UConn issues, from basketball to football to TV deals to the reality that UConn has little-to-no shot at getting a reversal on the 2013 postseason ban. So if you're a Huskies fan, it qualifies as a must-read.

As for the man who's given this program three national titles, this news/non-news is as much about Connecticut's stability and ability to recruit for the near-future as anything else. The Huskies don't have a top-25 recruiting class next year, but are working on landing an elite coup for 2013. Calhoun's proven he won't tip his hand at when he'll go, and why start now? My lingering curiosity is, when he does announce his retirement, will he do it before the start of his final season? Mid-year? Or does he wait to publicly break the news until after he's coached his final game?

Courtesy of www.cbssports.com


Rutgers Carroll receives medical redshirt, will transfer - by Eurobasket News

Rutgers sophomore guard Austin Carroll (6'4''-G-90) has received a medical redshirt and plans to transfer, his father confirmed to SNY.tv.

Carroll will have three years of eligibility remaining at his next stop after recovering from meniscus surgery his freshman year at Rutgers and being limited to 10 games last year.

He just got a medical redshirt so now he is looking for a school, John Carroll, Austins father, told SNY.tv.
Rhode Island, Loyola (Md.), Towson, Loyola Marymount, American and Penn are among the schools interested, his father said.

There is an excellent chance he would get a waiver to play immediately wherever he lands, a source told SNY.tv.

Carroll is the second player to transfer from Rutgers this off-season, following sophomore forward Gillie Biruta, who landed with his former St. Benedicts Prep coach Dan Hurley at Rhode Island.

The news was first reported by CBSSports.com.

Courtesy of www.zagsblog.com


Montrezl Harrell's commitment bolsters already-strong Louisville frontcourt - by Eurobasket News

Opposing teams won't enjoy seeing Louisville's frontcourt next season. Neither will national play-by-play announcers.

With the addition of former Virginia Tech signee Montrezl Harrell on Monday morning, Louisville's frontcourt becomes deeper, stronger and even more difficult to pronounce. Harrell, an athletic 6-foot-8 power forward rated No. 82 in his class by Rivals.com, will likely come off the bench as a freshman behind returning starters Gorgui Dieng and Chane Behanan.

Louisville instantly became the favorite to land Harrell when he sought his release from his letter of intent at Virginia Tech last month after the Hokies fired coach Seth Greenberg. One of Rick Pitino's assistant coaches is Kevin Keatts, who coached at Hargrave Military Academy in Virginia for eight years and recruited Harrell to go there before accepting a job at Louisville last spring.

'A lot of things sold him,' current Hargrave Military Academy coach A.W. Hamilton told the Louisville Courier-Journal on Monday. 'He really enjoyed meeting the guys and the facilities are probably the best in the country.

'He has an unbelievable relationship with (assistant) coach Keatts and the more time he spent around coach Pitino, it felt like home for him.'

The addition of Harrell gives Louisville a hard-working pogo stick of a power forward who should excel on defense and rebounding early in his college career while his raw skill set catches up to his athleticism. Harrell also creates a scholarship logjam for Louisville, which now has one too many scholarship players even after encouraging senior Jared Swopshire to transfer for his final collegiate season.
Last season, Pitino solved a similar problem when Chris Smith, Kyle Kuric and Elisha Justice each agreed to pay their own way for school. Expect a similar solution to emerge in the next few months.

Harrell adds enough to Louisville's abundance of quality depth next season that the Cardinals are willing to get creative to accommodate him.

Courtesy of http://sports.yahoo.com


Pangos All-American Camp recap - by Eurobasket News

The Pangos All-American Camp has become one of the elite events of the spring calendar, bringing the top players from across the country to the West coast. Moreover, it gives some of the lesser-known players from the California area a chance to make a name for themselves. While this year's camp did not feature the top-five individual battles of a year ago, there was plenty of talent on hand. There was great depth and the parity at the top meant players were constantly battling in order to get a step up on the competition. Here were some of the top standout performers:

Ben Simmons, 2015: Simmons was the talk of the camp, as the 6-foot-8 Australia native clearly made a tremendous first impression on the scouts and analysts in attendance. Arguably the best prospect at the event, Simmons would likely be the No. 1 player in the class of 2015 if he attended high school in the United States. As it stands, he's an extremely athletic and skilled forward who runs the floor extremely well and knows how to finish at the rim. He's a very good rebounder and is a mismatch for most opponents.

Jarrell Martin, 2013: Martin has been playing well all spring, and he continued that at Pangos. He is an inside-outside offensive player, capable of scoring at the rim or knocking down outside jumpers. He was a beast on the offensive glass, crashing it for second-chance points on a regular basis.

Cliff Alexander, 2014: The recipient of this year's Most Outstanding Player award, Alexander was dominant down low. His size and strength were far too much for most opponents, and his energy level didn't wane even when he didn't get touches. Alexander knows how to finish inside, and he also has developed a face-up jumper from 15-feet.

Karviar Shepherd, 2013: In a class without too many standout centers, Shepherd continues to rise up the charts. His offensive game is superior to most of his counterparts, as he can consistently hit face-up jumpers from the foul line and jump hooks with his back to the basket. Shepherd is also solid on the defensive end.

Conner Frankamp, 2013: Arguably the most impressive guard at the camp, Frankamp made plays throughout the weekend. Moreover, in a setting where it was easy to simply isolate and go one-on-one, Frankamp made an effort to get teammates involved and facilitate offense. He is a knockdown 3-point shooter and is very shifty with the ball. Moreover, the Kansas commit jumps passing lanes and runs the break well.

Brandon Austin, 2013: The Penn State commit used his versatility and length to create matchup problems. He can play multiple positions and is also a very good defender. Austin created plays for himself and teammates, and knocked down outside shots. In transition, he can find teammates and finish at the rim.

Brandon Randolph, 2013: There are differing opinions about Randolph, but he was certainly impressive over the weekend. His strength enables him to get past defenders and finish at the rim, and he also knows how to pull-up in the mid-range or utilize floaters. Randolph can play both guard spots and is confident.

Mike Young, 2013: Young continued his very solid spring with another high-level performance at Pangos. He has expanded his offensive game to include consistent perimeter shooting, which has made him a matchup problem. Young can go off the dribble and finish, and he was aggressive on the glass.

Kevon Looney, 2014: Looney is still developing his skillset, but he has a long and skinny frame and good athleticism. He can go off the dribble against bigger defenders, and is not afraid to use his skill and touch. Looney is a very good finisher and rebounder, and he can also guard different positions.

Derryck Thornton Jr., 2016: The lone 2016 prospect at the camp, Thornton is going to be an absolute stud point guard in his class. He has a high basketball IQ for someone his age, and he did not show any signs of being timid going against older players. He is confident and smooth, and makes the right pass. Still growing, Thornton is going to be a player to watch.

Other players worth noting: Harvard commit Zena Edosomwan played with energy throughout the weekend. He beat opponents on the glass and in transition . . . Loyola Marymount got an absolute steal in Patson Siame. He's still raw offensively, but the 6-foot-11 big man blocks shots and rebounds . . . Solomon Poole is so explosive offensively, but he also knocked down shots . . . Jonathan Williams III didn't get a ton of touches, but he is a matchup problem offensively and can finish against bigger players . . . 6-foot-4 Chris Sandifer is an intriguing prospect. He can score and handle, and has good size for his position . . . Damontrae Jefferson might have been the most exciting player at the camp. He's 5-foot-7 (yeah, right), but can shoot and create . . . UNLV-bound Christian Wood showed off his deep range, and at 6-foot-9, he's a great pick-and-pop option . . . Stanley Johnson has a unique body and skillset, and he's very productive no matter what role he's playing . . . It's impossible to keep JaQuan Newton out of the lane; he and Kevin Zabo engaged in a great head-to-head battle . . . 2013 prospect Dakarai Allen doesn't have much of an offensive game, but he's physical and a lockdown defender on the perimeter . . . Louisville-commit Anton Gill showed off his offensive game, knocking down outside shots and floaters consistently . . . When it comes to scoring, there are few better in the 2013 class than Isaac Hamilton . . . 6-foot-4 guard Namon Wright is a player to watch in 2014 . . . When Zach Lavine gets going, he's tough to guard . . . We've seen Wayne Selden attack and score for years, but he demonstrated playmaking and ball-handling abilities at times.

Courtesy of www.cbssports.com


From Canton, Ohio, McCollum Brothers' Grind To Glory - by David Pick

Former Goshen College standout Errick McCollum, who spent the past two seasons playing professional basketball in Israel , was eager to hit the gym with his brother and Lehigh star C.J. McCollum, as the two ballers prepared for what could possibly become a career changing season for each of them.

Interrupting their post workout jump shots at Walsh University in North Canton, Errick answered his cellular phone and on the line, 6,000 miles away, there I was.

'We workout every day and push each other all the time,' said Errick, the oldest of the two siblings, explaining how competitive basketball gets when played with brothers. 'We share similar moves and play the same guard positions. C.J.'s a little bigger than I am which is kind of a challenge,' he continued, while contemplating the challenge of hoisting shots over his 20-year-old sibling.

Catching a breather between workouts, C.J., a projected 2013 NBA Draft Lottery pick, inspires himself and Errick to continue their on-court battles by pointing to American professional boxer Floyd Mayweather for inspiration, 'whenever we get tired, I remind Errick how much money Mayweather is earning.'

A college senior, Errick, known to his locker room buddies as 'Lil' E,' was named Goshen College's all-time leading scorer and the program's first-ever NAIA DII First Team All American selection. The 24-year-old recently came off back-to-back seasons of professional ball in Israel.

After getting spotty minutes during his rookie season with Division I Barak Netanya, the 6-foot-1 McCollum returned to the Holy Land, this time, joining the struggling Hapoel Kfar Saba of the minor league. Errick instantly showed ultra scoring potential, helping Hapoel battle through the delegation playoffs en route to becoming the league's most versatile scorer, averaging 24.3 points, 3 assists and 8 rebounds per game.

'My season with Netanya didn't go as expected, but I'm happy I got the opportunity to compete against players on the highest level,' said Errick. 'I'm just waiting to get my chance to compete at a high level again. I performed well in the second division, but I think I'll show everybody what I'm capable of when the opportunity comes at a top division somewhere, and I'm going to keep preparing until that time comes.'

The McCollums need to prove themselves while constantly being doubted by others defines their hardwood struggles throughout their careers.

Wrapping up their daily workout, our phone interview moved location from WU's training facility to Errick's light blue 4X4 Dodge Durango. C.J. took charge of the steering wheel and the boys set out on their eight minute drive home.

Having decided to return to Lehigh for his senior year, analysts compared C.J.'s decision not to enter the upcoming draft to that of Golden State Warrior Stephen Curry. Like C.J., Curry attended at a Mid-major college in Davidson. Curry, who played NCAA hoops throughout his junior year, decided to stay in school one more season instead of entering the draft as sophomore. That said, Curry's stock rose to the top 10 selections and McCollum, who was predicted by various mock drafts to be chosen anywhere from late first round to early second, has already upped his value, and is expected to be a lottery draftee next June.

'I was hearing my name going late first early second round so it was definitely a tough decision but I felt that coming back to school would be the best opportunity for me not only on the court but also in the classroom,' said C.J., who prior to making his decision, made sure to call Israel to consult his older brother. 'Errick played a large role in my decision. He supported me, gave me feedback and he knows I think highly of him. He said he'd have my back with any decision I make whether being school or the NBA. He felt like I couldn't make the wrong decision.'

Despite his expected success, C.J., a two-time Patriot League player of the year, was forced throughout his career to take the hard road. He was always carefully watched, but teams questioned his ability to play at a high level. Even after dropping 30 points on the mighty Duke Blue Devils in the second round of the NCAA tournament, McCollum was doubted.

'NBA scouts came to watch C.J. play because he was always on their radar. He dominated his conference and was playing great but the fact that he went to a Mid-major college left a question mark,' Errick noted.

'We knew he could play,' Errick said. 'Our family, friends and anyone who ever played C.J. knew what he was capable of. C.J. would always hear people mumble, 'well, he's in a smaller school, or not in a big conference or this or that', there was always an excuse. The Duke game was C.J.'s opportunity to confirm what we already knew. And he did just that.'

Errick, who first left the United States in 2010 to play professionally, never had the opportunity as a spectator to watch his younger brother play. 'When I was a senior he was a freshman and our schedules overlapped. In Israel we played in two leagues and my season ended after C.J.'s,' he said.

Nonetheless, this past November, Errick's wish came true. 'I got to see C.J. play in person for the first time in his college career. I left for Israel after the season there started, so I caught Lehigh's ESPN game against St. John in New York. We lost but that didn't matter. It was probably my first and last college game to physically see him play so I was proud of the way he played.'

While in Israel, Errick watched on the screen, 'I stayed up all night watching all of C.J.'s games. Israel's time zone is roughly seven hours ahead so games would come on at 3 a.m.' Looking back on his sleepless nights, Errick recalls one in particular. 'It was the night of the Duke game in the second round of the NCAA tourney. People here went clubbing but I stayed home to catch the game. My neighbors went crazy. I was yelling at the television screen, my phone was blowing up and I was rooting for Lehigh so loudly. I always watched C.J. play and I'll always be on his back telling him what he needs to work on and improve.'

Despite the obvious differences, C.J. compares his basketball journey to that of his brother, both on and off the court. 'We went through similar things in basketball. We were both doubted from a very young age but we shared the same goals and aspirations,' he says.

'The difference between college and playing pro is that its a business. It's kind of similar to recruiting when college coaches tell you they'll give you all the minutes or play you at a certain position just to get you on board. Professional teams will do or say whatever so that you join their ball club. Then, when you get there, things just change and it's out of your control. That's what happened to Errick his first year overseas. Knowing that, you just gotta work as hard as you can everyday and when given an opportunity, take advantage of it.'

As Errick watches his younger sibling grow into a national star, he is still searching for a new post next season. 'I love Israel, but I'm waiting for the right opportunity to go back,' said Errick. 'Any Division I level overseas that is a good situation is where I'm aiming to play at right now.'

C.J.? He's focusing on improving as a player and getting ready for another season of college hoops. Lehigh's standout spends his off season breaking down the repertoire of Oklahoma City Thunder's All-Star point guard Russell Westbrook and the Warriors' Curry. 'I really try to feed off of what those guys are doing. I study their moves and try to become better as a player. Curry and I went through similar situations so I try to implement his strengths on the court and learn as much as possible from him,' C.J. concluded.

The McCollum brothers are also training for the upcoming Cleveland Pro-Am summer league. Being natives of Canton, Errick and C.J. are the only two 'foreign' players to join Akron's finest and compete for back-to-back summer league titles.




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  POLAND   


Poland U20 lost two to Athletes in Action - by Eurobasket News

Polish U20 National Team played two friendly encounters against Athletes in Action selection in Katowice. The US team celebrated two comfortable victories.
The first game ended with AIA claiming a 99:64 win. Brady Heslip (187-G-90) stepped up with 21 points to lead the winners. Jamil Wilson (200-F-90) topscored with 22 points for AIA team. Jaroslaw Zyskowski (201-G-92) answered with 13 points for Poland. Maciej Kucharek (204-SF-93) finished with 12 points in the loss.
The next game was once again a one-way traffic. Athletes in Action dominated from start to finish to record a well-deserved 103:81 victory. Brady Heslip exploded with 41 points to lead the winners. Jamil Wilson produced 18 points, while Deuce Bello (193-G-92) contributed 13 in the winning case. Michal Michalak (194-G-93, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) answered with 17 points for Poland. Przemyslaw Karnowski (214-C-93) netted 11 points in the losing effort.


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  PUERTO RICO   

Stats Leaders - BSN

Points Per Game
 Al THORNTON
  Guayama
  (203-F-83)
  Avg: 25.3
 1. Thornton, Guayama25.3 
 2. Sensley, Humacao19.7 
 3. Randolph, Quebradi.19.4 
 4. Harris, San German19.1 
 5. Diogu, Arecibo18.1 
 6. Brown, Humacao18.0 
 7. Ayuso, Arecibo17.3 
 8. Dalmau, Bayamon17.1 
 9. Ramos, Quebradillas17.1 
 10. Vassallo, Guayna.16.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Shavlik RANDOLPH
  Quebradi.
  (208-F-83)
  Avg: 11.5
 1. Randolph, Quebradi.11.5 
 2. Harris, San German10.3 
 3. Diogu, Arecibo9.9 
 4. Lloreda, San G.9.6 
 5. Powell, Guayama9.2 
 6. Thornton, Guayama9.2 
 7. Sensley, Humacao9.0 
 8. Ramos, Quebradillas8.8 
 9. Burgess, Guaynabo8.4 
 10. Shannon, Quebradi.8.1 
Assists Per Game
 Andres RODRIGUEZ
  Arecibo
  (184-PG-81)
  Avg: 7.6
 1. Rodriguez, Arecibo7.6 
 2. Rivera, San German5.7 
 3. Guzman, Guaynabo5.4 
 4. Garcia, Humacao5.2 
 5. Smith, Mayaguez5.2 
 6. Pagan, Guayama5.0 
 7. Butler, Quebradill.4.8 
 8. Dalmau, Bayamon4.1 
 9. Pinnock, Arecibo3.9 
 10. Brown, Humacao3.4 
Steals Per Game
 Donta SMITH
  Mayaguez
  (201-G-83)
  Avg: 2
 1. Smith, Mayaguez2.0 
 2. Rodriguez, Arecibo1.9 
 3. Hamilton, Mayaguez1.7 
 4. Mojica, Bayamon1.7 
 5. Pinnock, Arecibo1.5 
 6. Dalmau, Bayamon1.5 
 7. Sensley, Humacao1.3 
 8. Figueroa, Guaynabo1.3 
 9. Thornton, Guayama1.3 
 10. Rivera, San German1.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Mamadou LAMIZANA
  Bayamon
  (207-F/C-81)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Lamizana, Bayamon2.4 
 2. Penn, Humacao1.8 
 3. Aubry, Arecibo1.7 
 4. Shannon, Quebradil.1.6 
 5. Thornton, Guayama1.6 
 6. O''Bryant, Mayaguez1.6 
 7. Looby, Bayamon1.6 
 8. Burgess, Guaynabo1.4 
 9. Randolph, Quebradi.1.3 
 10. Powell, Guayama1.3 


Indios crush Capitanes to take a 2-1 lead: - by Luis Modestti

Indios de Mayaguez crushed Capitanes de Arecibo 94-68 to take a 2-1 lead in the BSN finals. Game four is on Thursday in Arecibo.

Alexander Franklin (196-PF-88, college: Siena) exploded off the bench with 27 points and 14 rebounds. Carlos Rivera (187-PG-83, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Hofstra) netted 24 and Donta Smith (201-G-83, college: SE Illinois JC) had 14 points with 13 assists for the winners.

Capitanes started the game with an 11-2 run led by Danilo Pinnock (196-G-83, college: G.Washington), but Indios recovered thanks to Franklin who came from the bench and gave the hosts the spark they needed to take off. The first quarter ended 27-16 and at half Indios had a 51-28 lead.

Arecibo had a reaction in the third quarter but they could not match the intensity of Mayaguez on both sides of the court.

Daniel Santiago (216-C-76, agency: Priority Sports, college: N.Mexico) led with 15 points and Pinnock scored 13 for Arecibo who must defend their court in game four.


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  ROMANIA   


Baris Aktas pens deal with CSU Sibiu - by Eurobasket News

Baris Aktas (193-F-91) pens deal with CSU Sibiu for the 2012/2013 season. The Romanian U20 National Team -10-11 player comes from CS Dinamo Bucuresti.
Aktas spent this season with CS Dinamo Bucuresti. He averaged 6.3 points, 2.4 assists and 2.1 rebounds. Before Dinamo Bucuresti, Baris Aktas spent one year with Timisoara, but he played only two games for the club.
In 2009 Baris Aktas was a member of the Romanian U18 National Team. At the European Championships U18 Division B in Sarajevo (Bosnia and Herzegovina) his stats read 7.0ppg, 2.5rpg, 2.3apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 48.0%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 60.0%. In 2010/2011 he became the member of the Romanian U20 National Team . At the European Championships U20 Division B in Austria in 7 games he showed 4.9ppg, 1.4rpg, 1.1apg, 1.1spg.
Earlier CS U-Mobitelco Cluj Napoca wanted to sign Baris Aktasfor the next season.


Ionel Dodoc remains with BC Timisoara - by Eurobasket News

Ionel Dodoc (192-G-85) remains with BC Timisoara for the next season. The Romanian Guard will enter his second season with the team.
In 2006-2007 he appeared for CSU Asesoft Ploiesti (Div.A) and in 2007-2008 moved to BC Targoviste Bucuresti (Div.A). In 15 games he averaged 4.5ppg, 1.3rpg.
In 2008-2009 came back to CSU Asesoft Ploiesti (Div.A) and after 14 games had 4.0ppg. In 2009-2010 for CSU Asesoft Ploiesti (Div.A): his stats read 0.8ppg.
In 2010-2011 moved to SCM CSU Craiova (Div.A, starting five) and in 35 games showed 6.8ppg, 2.7rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 36.0%, 3PT: 32.4%, FT: 71.4%. The last season started for BC Timisoara (Div.A) and debuted in Balkan League with 2.0ppg, 1.5rpg. In Romanian League after 13 games his stats read 2.3ppg, 1.2apg.
This season Ionel Dodoc became Romanian Cup Finalist -12, Romanian League Regular Season Runner-Up -12 and Romanian League Finalist -12.


Christian Achim stays with CSM Oradea - by Eurobasket News

Christian Achim stays with CSM Oradea and will enter his 4th season with the team. The Romanian Specialist extended the contract with the team.
In 2006-2007 he appeared as a Head Coach for CSS BC Ramnicu Valcea (Div.A) and then in 2009 was hired by CSM Oradea (Div.A). In the last season the team finished with 20-8 record on the 5th place. In the Play-offs Christian Achim s team lost to the Winners Ploiesti. In the last game the guests were tied after three quarters but managed to speed up in last quarter eventually winning the game. Ploiesti dominated down low during the game scoring 52 of its points in the paint compared to Oradea's 32. The best player for the winners was the Catalin Burlacu who scored 21 points and 6 rebounds.
For his Awards/Achievements it is a must to mention that he was a Coach Assistant for Romanian U20 National Team -08. He participated at the European Championships U20 Division B in Targu Mures (Romania) -08. Later he became the Head Coach for Romanian U18 National Team -09 and Coach Assistant: Romanian University National Team -11.


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  RUSSIA   


Krasnie Krilya tab Chester Simmons - by Eurobasket News

Krasniye Krilya have ensured the roster strengthening. They agreed on terms of contract with Chester Simmons (198-G-82, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav, college: Washington). The guard spent the last two seasons with Nymburk. Last season Chester Simmons averaged 13.3 points, 3.9 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 1.7 steals per game in NBL. In VTB League the guard notched 16.4 points, 3.6 boards, 2.0 assists 1.3 per appearance. Chester Simmons also delivered 15.1 points, 3.6 boards, 2.9 assists and 1.3 steals per game in EuroCup. Eurobasket.com named the player into All-VTB League 2nd Team. Last season our site named Chester Simmons All-Czech Republic League Guard of the Year. Previously Chester Simmons had stints in Israel, Spain and Greece. He was trumped All-Israeli League Guard of the Year in 2007.


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  SERBIA   

Stats Leaders - 1A

Points Per Game
 Milos BOJOVIC
  Zeleznicar
  (198-G-81)
  Avg: 23.5
 1. Bojovic, Zeleznicar23.5 
 2. Milisavljevi., Meg.20.7 
 3. Zigeranovic, Borac20.5 
 4. Balaban, Smederevo20.0 
 5. Bozovic, Sloga17.1 
 6. Jeremic, Hemofarm17.1 
 7. Cupkovic, Napredak16.5 
 8. Dimic, Radnicki.16.5 
 9. Miljenovic, Mega V.16.1 
 10. Svilar, Smederevo15.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Darko BALABAN
  Smederevo
  (211-C-89)
  Avg: 8.8
 1. Balaban, Smederevo8.8 
 2. Zigeranovic, Borac8.2 
 3. Cupkovic, Napredak7.6 
 4. Cantekin, Mega V.7.2 
 5. Majkic, Prolet.7.2 
 6. Petrovic, BKK R.7.0 
 7. Scott, Radnicki K.6.7 
 8. Misanovic, OKK B.6.6 
 9. Musli, Mega Vizura6.4 
 10. Gagic, Hemofarm6.1 
Assists Per Game
 Miljan PAVKOVIC
  Radnicki K.
  (178-G-81)
  Avg: 6.9
 1. Pavkovic, Radnicki6.9 
 2. Boltic, BKK R.5.7 
 3. Osmokrovic, BKK R.5.1 
 4. Dundjerski, Vojvo.4.7 
 5. Markovic, Radnicki4.4 
 6. Jovic, Sloga4.3 
 7. Popovic, Crvena Z.4.3 
 8. Miljenovic, Mega V.4.1 
 9. Stefanovic, Smede.4.1 
 10. Milisavljevi., Me.4.1 
Steals Per Game
 Negoslav GACIC
  BKK Radnicki
  (193-G-)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Gacic, BKK Radnicki2.8 
 2. Jovic, Sloga2.6 
 3. Boltic, BKK R.2.3 
 4. Dundjerski, Vojvo.2.1 
 5. Bojovic, Zeleznicar2.0 
 6. Vulin, Prolet.1.9 
 7. Majstorovic, Tamis1.8 
 8. Kuzeta, Vojvodina1.8 
 9. Miljenovic, Mega V.1.7 
 10. Drca, OKK Beograd1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Nenad MISANOVIC
  OKK B.
  (217-C-84)
  Avg: 1.5
 1. Misanovic, OKK B.1.5 
 2. Simon, Radnicki K.1.2 
 3. Zigeranovic, Borac1.2 
 4. Balaban, Smederevo1.2 
 5. Scott, Radnicki K.1.0 
 6. Cantekin, Mega V.0.9 
 7. Todorovic, Borac0.8 
 8. Petronic, BKK R.0.8 
 9. Majkic, Prolet.0.8 
 10. Draskovic, Metalac0.7 


Sasa Obradovic in Alba Berlin - by Zoran Popovic

Serbian coach Sasa Obradovic (agency: Beo Basket ) decides to move to Alba Berlin. Sasa Obradovic (agency: Beo Basket ) was on tbe bench BC Doneck last two seasons and won Ukranian Superleague 2012 and played Eurocup quarterfinal. Before BC Doneck and Alba Berlin, Sasa Obradovic (agency: Beo Basket ) led PGE Turow Zgorzelec, BC Kyiv and RheinEnergie Kln. As player Sasa Obradovic (agency: Beo Basket ) spend three seasons in Alba Berlin in period 1994 1997. Sasa Obradovic (agency: Beo Basket ) was member of Yugoslavian National team from 1993 until 2002 and in that period won handful of medals on European Championships, World Championships and Olympic games.


Partizan takes 1-0 lead in the Finals - by Eurobasket News

Finals, Game 1: Partizan - Crvena Zvezda 92-83 (1-0)

First game of the Superleague Finals between Partizan and Crvena Zvezda just ended. The hosts celebrated 92-83 victory for 1-0 lead in the series. The format is best-of-five and second game is scheduled for Friday. Crvena Zvezda will be the host.
The hosts started the game with a very strong first quarter 23-14. But Zvezda won third quarter 28-19. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The game was decided in the last minutes when Partizan won last quarter 28-20. They made 23-of-29 free shots (79.3 percent) during the game. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. 25 personal fouls committed by Zvezda helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a great performance of international guard Dragan Milosavljevic (198-89) who helped to win the game recording 18 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. American point guard Dominic James (180-86, college: Marquette) contributed with 15 points and 5 assists for the winners. Four Partizan players scored in double figures. American forward Omar Thomas (197-82, college: UTEP) answered with 21 points and 5 rebounds and Bojan Subotic (206-90) added 13 points in the effort for Zvezda. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game.
Partizan is the defending champion in Serbia. They were also regular season champs with 12-2 record. The Black-and-whites already won one trophy this season and it was the Serbian Cup. In Adriatic league they failed in the Semifinals. Crvena Zvezda was No.3 in regular season with 9-5 record, but they surprised Radnicki Kragujevac in the Semis.

Partizan: D.Milosavljevic 18+6reb+4ast, D.Andjusic 16+2ast, D.James 15+4reb+5ast, M.Raduljica 13+6reb+1ast, M.Cakarevic 8+4reb, V.Lucic 8+1reb+1ast
Crvena Zvezda: O.Thomas 21+5reb+3ast, B.Subotic 13+3reb, N.Nedovic 10+1ast, B.Popovic 10+3reb+3ast, P.Popovic 8+4reb+1ast, M.Ilic 6+10reb


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  SPAIN   


EBA: Sabadell Sant Nicolau, Santfeliuenc, Platja de Palma and Cafes Aitona, to LEB Silver - by Mariano Galindo

EBA league finished last weekend and Sabadell Sant Nicolau, Santfeliuenc, Platja de Palma and Cafes Aitona, got their spot to LEB Silver after a long season and har play offs. Sabadell Sant Nicolau tied his game vs Establecimientos Otero (64-64) but they went to Galicia 5 points ahead (71-66). Platja de Palma won again its game vs Meridiano Santa Cruz, Canoe could not overcome 18 points vs Cafes Aitona and CB Santfeliuenc swept Cimbis.



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  SYRIA   


Lebanon shoot down Syria in friendly - by Eurobasket News

Lebanon and Syria are getting ready for the upcoming WABA Championship. They played an exhibition encounter in Beirut recently. Lebanon came out winners 96:88. Fadi Khatib (199-F-79) exploded with 36 points in less than 25 minutes on the court to lead all scorers.
Lebanon and Syria will join Iran, Palestine, Jordan and Yemen in the quest for two qualifying spots at the 4th FIBA Asia Cup. The action starts on June 11 in Amman, Jordan.


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  TURKEY   

Stats Leaders - D1

Points Per Game
 Jonathan GIBSON
  Trabzonspor
  (182-PG-87)
  Avg: 19.9
 1. Gibson, Trabzonspor19.9 
 2. Chatman, Karsiyaka18.3 
 3. Reynolds, Antalya18.3 
 4. Brown, Trabzonspor18.1 
 5. Scales, Mersin17.4 
 6. Toolson, Aliaga17.3 
 7. Fisher, Antalya17.2 
 8. Sneed, Mersin16.9 
 9. Grundy, Mersin16.9 
 10. Washington, Turk16.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Elton BROWN
  Trabzonspor
  (206-C-83)
  Avg: 12.2
 1. Brown, Trabzonspor12.2 
 2. Stimac, Olin Edirne9.9 
 3. Sanders, Hacett.8.9 
 4. McGhee, Bandirma.7.8 
 5. Mensah-Bonsu, Bes.7.8 
 6. Wesson, Erdemir7.6 
 7. Buckman, Tofas7.6 
 8. Sonkol, Aliaga7.3 
 9. Yucel, Turk T.7.0 
 10. Dagli, Besiktas6.8 
Assists Per Game
 Mire CHATMAN
  Karsiyaka
  (187-PG-78)
  Avg: 6.4
 1. Chatman, Karsiyaka6.4 
 2. Ermis, Banvit BK5.8 
 3. Ratkovica, Aliaga5.3 
 4. Tunceri, Anadolu5.1 
 5. Senturk, Erdemir4.9 
 6. Gordon, Galatasaray4.5 
 7. Fisher, Antalya4.4 
 8. Washington, Turk T.4.4 
 9. Reynolds, Antalya4.4 
 10. Arroyo, Besiktas4.2 
Steals Per Game
 Russell ROBINSON
  Trabzons.
  (185-G-86)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Robinson, Trabzons.2.1 
 2. Grier, Mersin2.1 
 3. Bryan-A., Hacett.2.0 
 4. Chatman, Karsiyaka1.9 
 5. Grundy, Mersin1.7 
 6. Gordon, Galatasaray1.6 
 7. Scales, Mersin1.4 
 8. Guler, Turk T.1.4 
 9. Hawkins, Besiktas1.4 
 10. Ermis, Banvit BK1.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Charles DAVIS
  Banvit BK
  (202-F-84)
  Avg: 1.3
 1. Davis, Banvit BK1.3 
 2. Bryan-A., Hacett.1.3 
 3. Robinson, Erdemir1.1 
 4. McGhee, Bandirma.1.0 
 5. Gist, Fener.Ulker0.9 
 6. Bayav, Karsiyaka0.9 
 7. Aldemir, Galatasar.0.9 
 8. Qvale, Aliaga0.8 
 9. Karaman, Karsiyaka0.8 
 10. Turkyilmaz, Banvi.0.8 


Brooklyn Nets to go after Ersan Ilyasova? - by Eurobasket News

The Brooklyn Nets have the potential to be big buyers this upcoming offseason. One target that has been thrown around the rumor mill for the Nets. Milwaukee Bucks forward Ersan Ilyasova (6'10''-F-87) has been the guy that could be heading east to join the Nets in Brooklyn after finishing second in Most Improved Player of the Year voting.

The Nets have been interested in the Bucks forward throughout the year and could have traded for him a few times during the 2011-12 season but missed out a few times. The Nets decision making on Ilyasova is going to depend on how much money the spend to re-sign all of their impending free agents. Ilyasova could be worth at an upwards of $8 million this season.

The Bucks are interested in re-signing Ilyasova but Milwaukee GM John Hammond admitted that re-signing the Turkish star is going to be difficult. The Bucks do own the Bird rights on him and will have a ton of cap space to make him a very competitive offer but Ilyasova is likely to get a better offer on the open market.

Ilyasova will have to compete on the open market with other key free agents like the San Antonio Spurs forward Tim Duncan and Boston Celtics forward Kevin Garnett. The plus-side for Ilyasova is that out of all the competitors looking for a big deal, Ilyasova is only 25 and is likely to get a long-term contract.

Last season, llyasova improved from 9.5 points per game to 13.0 points per game as well as improving his rebounds per game average from 6.1 to 8.8. Ilyasova will probably get a big contract but he will have to continue playing at the great improving pace that he has been playing at.

Courtesy of www.rantsports.com


Besiktas destroys Anadolu Efes for 3-1 lead in TBL Finals - by Eurobasket News

Finals, Game 4: Besiktas - Anadolu Efes 81-55 (3-1)

Besiktas is one win away from the title. They blasted Anadolu Efes tonight with huge 81-55 for 3-1 lead in TBL Finals. The format is best-of-seven and Game Five is scheduled for Friday. Anadolu Efes will be the host.
The game without a history. Besiktas led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 48 of its points in the paint compared to Anadolu Efes' 26. They outrebounded Anadolu Efes 38-17 including a 15-3 advantage in offensive rebounds. American guard David Hawkins (194-82, college: Temple) fired 23 points, 5 rebounds and 7 assists for the winners. British forward Pops Mensah-Bonsu (206-83, college: G.Washington, agency: SportsTalent) chipped in a double-double by scoring 12 points and 12 rebounds. Four Besiktas players scored in double figures. Slovenian guard Sasha Vujacic (200-84) produced 10 points and 4 assists and international power forward Kerem Gonlum (208-77) added 12 points respectively for lost side. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next game.
TBL champion Fenerbahce Ulker is out of the Finals and there is no regular season champion Galatasaray as well. Besiktas eliminated both of them. On its way to the Finals Anadolu Efes edged Karsiyaka and Banvit. Efes will try to stay alive after Friday's game and will try to come to 2-3 in the series. At the same time it will be the first chance for Besiktas to close the Finals and win the TBL title. The game will start at 20h (local time).

Besiktas: D.Hawkins 23+5reb+7ast, C.Arroyo 13+1reb+2ast, P.Mensah-Bonsu 12+12reb, E.Dagli 12+7reb+1ast, M.Yagmur 8+1reb+4ast, Z.Erceg 8+5reb
Anadolu Efes: K.Gonlum 12+2reb+1ast, S.Vujacic 10+2reb+4ast, O.Lafayette 7+1reb+1ast, K.Tunceri 6+2ast, E.Kurtoglu 6, D.Savanovic 4+3reb
gschID: 177502



Aliaga keeps Head Coach Burak Biyiktay - by Eurobasket News

Burak Biyiktay (agency: Alti Sport) will return to Aliaga Petkim for the next season. The Turkish specialist signed a one-year contract extension. Biyiktay took over the team last summer. They managed to reach TBL Quarterfinals, but failed against Banvit (0-2). Aliaga ended regular season as No.7 with 14-16 record. It seems that was enough for Biyiktay to secure an extension. Before Aliaga, Burak Biyiktay worked with Besiktas Cola Turka. He was their Head Coach from 2009 to January of 2011. Before that, Biyiktay served as General Manager and Assistant Coach of the team. In 2010, he coached at TBL All-Star Game.


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  U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS   


For Duncan, Jackson, no plans to surrender - by David Edole

Post-shower sweat was still trickling off Tim Duncan's brow after the Spurs absorbed their third straight loss to the Thunder in the Western Conference finals, a debilitating 108-103 loss at the AT&T Center, but Duncan had a request that surprised everyone: Start Game 6 immediately, please.

I'm ready to play right now, the Spurs captain said after scoring 18 points and grabbing 12 rebounds in just over 33 minutes of court time. It's a heartbreaking way to end that game. I'm ready to get ready to get out there and lace them up again and go.

The Thunder will demand Duncan and his teammates wait until the series changes venues and returns to Oklahoma City, but Duncan's wish to get back in action immediately summarized the Spurs' feelings about a game they believed they had positioned themselves to win before the 3-point dagger James Harden dropped on them with 28.8 seconds remaining.

They had guys hit some big shots for them, mostly James' big three when they were up two, Duncan said. That was a huge one for them.

We played good for stretches, and that wasn't enough. We got a lead there and let them back in to get a big lead, and we fought back in it. There was just too much back and forth and not enough consistent play from us.

All in all, I think we had the right game plan. We just need to play better for longer.

Duncan said he was ready to play as much as necessary in Game 6. Stephen Jackson, one of three Spurs who were with him on the 2003 championship team, vowed to play every minute of Wednesday's Game 6 if need be.

I can play the whole game, he said. Before I came here, I was in the top five in minutes the last couple years. I'm used to playing a lot of minutes, and if I have to, I can.

Jackson was part of a veteran-laden lineup Duncan, Manu Ginobili, Tony Parker and rookie Kawhi Leonard joined him that brought the Spurs back from 13 down with 5:17 left to get within two points, 103-101, before the Harden 3-pointer.

He would like to see the same unit get a lot of time together in Game 6.

That's a nice look, a good look, he said. It gives them a lot of problems because we've got four guards out there who can make plays and knock a shot down. It opens the court for Tony. They only can play one big man, so it definitely helps a little bit.

Jackson expressed confidence in the Spurs' ability to bring the series back to San Antonio for a deciding Game 7.

You know me, he said. I'm not submitting to nothing. We're going to go win this game. We have to. If they can do it, we can do it. I give them their props. They came in and did what they're supposed to do. They're a great young team, but we've got to go do the same thing. I'm not counting us out.

Duncan was even more certain of the Spurs' ability to bounce back.

I absolutely believe we can win, he said. I believe we've got the right formula, the right attitude and mindset to be able to win on the road. We've been in this situation before. I think we're all very sad and upset about the loss, but we're excited to go out there, lace them up and go again.

mikemonroe@express-news.net


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  UKRAINE   


Budivelnyk and Zvezdan Mitrovic split - by Eurobasket News

Budivelnyk will be looking for a new head coach. The team parted ways with Zvezdan Mitrovic (agency: Alti Sport ). The Montenegrin specialist took over the team at the start of the season. He finished in the second position in Superleague regular season. However Budivelnyk lost both semifinal and consolation final series in playoffs. Zvezdan Mitrovic (agency: Alti Sport ) has a vast experience working in Ukraine. He guided Khimik Yuzny and Kryvbasbasket-Lux since 2002 through 2011. Zvezdan Mitrovic (agency: Alti Sport ) led Kryvbasbasket-Lux to the UBL title in 2009. Eurobasket.com named him All-Ukrainian UBL Coach of the Year the same season. The specialist also worked as assistant coach with Buducnost Podgorica. Zvezdan Mitrovic (agency: Alti Sport ) is also currently working as Montenegrin B National Team head coach.


Agris Galvanovskis takes over Mykolaiv - by Eurobasket News

Mykolaiv made a change on the bridge. They agreed on terms of contract with Agris Galvanovskis . The deal is meant for one season with the option of extending it for another one. Agris Galvanovskis will arrive in Ukraine in the upcoming days to take over the team. The specialist has never worked outside Latvia before. Lately he worked with Liepajas Lauvas. In 2008/10 seasons Agris Galvanovskis guided Ventspils. He led the team to the LBL title in 2009. Eurobasket.com named him All-Latvian Coach of the Year in 2009. He also worked with ASK/Buki before. He was trumped All-Latvian League Coach of the Year also in 2005. Agris Galvanovskis worked with Latvian U20 National Team in 2008 and 2011.


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  URUGUAY   


Cader took the Metro leadership - by Hector Lopez

Cader took the Metro leadership after beating Urunday Universitario 91-74, during a game for the 6th round, with 21 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists by Reggie Okosa (208-F/C-80, agency: Top Notch Sports, college: La Salle). For Urunday Universitario Howard Wilkerson (198-F-84, agency: Two Points, college: Wofford) netted 12 points with 10 rebounds. Other results:
Yale 76 - Gregg Thondique (201-F-87, college: Virginia Union) 18 points 13 rebounds 2 blocks
Goes 73 - Matias De de Gouveia (180-PG-88) 16 points 7 assists, Jimmy Boston (201-F-77, college: N.C.Central) 7 points 5 rebounds
- - -
Guruyu Waston 95 - Martavius Adams 33 points, 13 rebounds
Capitol 80 - Santiago Moglia (196-F-89) 18 points 11 rebounds, Brad Kanis (218-C-84, college: Grand Canyon) 11 points 9 rebounds 3 blocks.




*****************************************************
  VENEZUELA   


Coach Brad Greenberg signs two-year contract with Maccabi Haifa (Israel) - by Francisco Vega

Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Venezuela's Senior NT assistant coach Brad Greenberg, who has succesfully helped out Eric Musselman in their task of bringing Venezuelan basketball back to the elite level, has signed a two-year contract to become the head coach of Israel's Maccabi Haifa, according to an announcement made by the team's owner, Jeffrey Rosen.

Greenberg is currently acting as head coach for Venezuela's Senior NT in its preparation for the South American Championship of Resistencia, Argentina, to be played from June 18th till the 22nd, granting four tickets to the 2013 FIBA Americas World Cup Qualy tournament. Musselman will join the team after that tournament to lead the team in the 2012 FIBA World Olympic Qualy, to be played at El Poliedro de Caracas, Venezuela, from July 2nd till the 8th, granting the last 3 tickets to the 2012 Olympic Games in London.

The 58 year-old, born in the United States, is a former NBA general manager, responsible for drafting Allen Iverson (184-G-75) for the Philadelphia Sixers back in 1996. He also served as an assistant coach for the Los Angeles Clippers and the New York Knicks back in the 1980's and has a 35-year career, including stints in NCAA Division I teams, including Saint Joseph, South Florida, Virginia Tech and Radford.

He recently coached Bucaneros de La Guaira in Venezuela's LPB up until he handed the team to Argentinian Guillermo Narvarte to focus on the work he had to do for the Venezuelan Basketball Federation (FVB).


Windi Graterol invited to NBA camp by Phoenix Suns - by Francisco Vega

Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Venezuelan PF-C Windi Graterol (203-F/C-86) was invited to an NBA camp by the Phoenix Suns and will travel to the United States right after the end of the FIBA World Olympic Qualy Tournament, to be played in Caracas, Venezuela from July 2nd till the 8th.

Graterol could take part in the NBA's Summer League, scheduled for mid July, thanks to a direct recommendation of Venezuela's Senior NT head coach, Eric Musselman , to Phoenix Suns's John Treloar, Chief of Personnel. Treloar coached in Venezuela back in 1997, working briefly for Cocodrilos de Caracas. Graterol belongs to Cocodrilos in Venezuela's LPB and has also played in Colombia.

The announcement was made by the Venezuelan Basketball Federation through its Technical Director, Francisco 'Paco' Diez . Graterol averaged 8.0 points and 5.3 rebounds per game in the 2011 FIBA Americas Olympic Qualy tournament, played in Mar del Plata, Argentina, earning a spot in the team despites the fact that he wasn't even a starter for Cocodrilos last season and was only playing a handful of minutes in his team.

His performance under Musselman's command prompted him to become Player of the Year in 2011 and the best player among the younger talents that went to Argentina.

It's the second time that Musselman attempts to help Graterol travel to the States. Last season, he was supposed to attend a camp held by the Los Angeles D-Fenders, an affiliate for the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBDL (D-League) that was coached by Musselman into the 2011-2012 Finals, but the player had no visa at the time.



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Women News


Bulgaria and Argentina exchange victories - by Eurobasket News

Bulgaria and Argentina exchange victories in Pravets. At first the guests grabbed a 60:59 win, while the European side replied with 64:52 tonight.
In Game 1 Burani top-scored for the winners with 15 points and Reggiardo netted 9. Marina Cava (168-G-85) followed them with 8 points. Jaklin Zlatanova (190-F-88) replied with 18 points in the losing effort and Bochvarova notched 12. Perostyska scored 10, while Kostova delivered 9.
In Game 2 Bulgaria started with 21-13 surge and never looked behind. Radostina Slavova-Naneva (188-F/C-86) top-scored for the winners with 18 points and Jaklin Zlatanova had 13. Daniela Peteva and Dimana Makarieva (188-C-88) followed them with 9 points apiece. Erica Carolina Sanchez ended up with 11 points in the losing effort and Melani Soriani (180-F/C-87) had 8.


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  AUSTRALIA   


Natalie Hurst close to sign with Hungarian champions - by Eurobasket News

Natalie Hurst (163-G-83) is close to get another deal in Europe. The Hungarian champion UNI SEAT Gyor shows series interest for the player and according to local media they are close to sign a deal. Hurst spent last season with Pays d'Aix Basket 13 Provence. She appeared 26 times in French LFB averaging 15.5 points, 3.5 assists and 3.2 rebounds. Natalie Hurst played for Pays d'Aix Basket 13 Provence also in 2010/11 season. She had 14.1 ppg, 4.7 apg and 3.7 rpg at that time. In both years she was named Eurobasket.com All-French LFB 1st Team -11, 12. In Australia, Hurst spent couple of years with Canberra Capitals. They won four WNBL titles together (06, 07, 09, 10). In 2009 with Australian National Team, Natalie Hurst won the Gold at Oceania Championship. A year ago the player won ABA league title with Gladstone Port City Power.


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  BELGIUM   


Young Belgian talent Emma Meesseman signs with Spartak Vidnoje Moscow Region - by Bert Larsimont

Emma Meesseman (192-C-93, agency: LBM Management) leaves Belgium. The young Belgian player will play in France next season and then for Russian Superleague powerhouse Spartak Vidnoje Moscow Region, the club that hired Meesseman for a long period. Her agency LBM Management officially announced the transfer on Monday and the news was quickly relayed by the Belgian press. Meesseman, who turned 19 on May 13th, leaves Crack Blue Cats Ieper where she has always played so far. Four-time FIBA Euroleague winner from 2007 to 2010, the club of Spartak Vidnoje Moscow Region signed the young Belgian talent for a long term contract (undertermined). The deal also mentions that Meesseman would play in France next season, to let her finish her studies already started in Brussels. Her French club is not known yet.

Meesseman has been the Belgian competition's MVP twice, the FIBA Europe Young Women's Basketball Player of the Year 2011 and U18 European Champion with Belgium in Oradea, Romania last year.

See here what experienced coaches Daniel Goethals (agency: LBM Management) and Etienne Louvrier (exclusive interview for Eurobasket.com) had to say about Emma Meesseman last February: http://www.eurobasket.com/Belgium/basketball.asp?NewsID=261346.


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  BOSNIA   

Stats Leaders - Women

D1 - League 10 Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1 RAHMANOVIC Irma 18.8
2 DEURA Milica 18.3
3 SAVIC Biljana 18.3
4 RAHMANOVIC Maida 17.4
5 GAGIC Zvjezdana 17.3
Rebounds Per Game
1 STANKOVIC Dragana 11.8
2 DEMIROVIC Emina 9.6
3 SAVIC Biljana 7.6
4 RAHMANOVIC Irma 7.3
5 MALTEZ Jovana 7.0
Assists Per Game
1 GAGIC Zvjezdana 5.6
2 CULAFIC Jelena 5.2
3 PINTER Andrea 3.8
4 SAVIC Biljana 3.6
5 ZAKULA Dragoslava 3.4



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  BULGARIA   


Bulgaria and Argentina exchange victories - by Eurobasket News

Bulgaria and Argentina exchange victories in Pravets. At first the guests grabbed a 60:59 win, while the European side replied with 64:52 tonight.
In Game 1 Burani top-scored for the winners with 15 points and Reggiardo netted 9. Marina Cava (168-G-85) followed them with 8 points. Jaklin Zlatanova (190-F-88) replied with 18 points in the losing effort and Bochvarova notched 12. Perostyska scored 10, while Kostova delivered 9.
In Game 2 Bulgaria started with 21-13 surge and never looked behind. Radostina Slavova-Naneva (188-F/C-86) top-scored for the winners with 18 points and Jaklin Zlatanova had 13. Daniela Peteva and Dimana Makarieva (188-C-88) followed them with 9 points apiece. Erica Carolina Sanchez ended up with 11 points in the losing effort and Melani Soriani (180-F/C-87) had 8.


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  CANADA   


Canadian NT for Olympic Qualifying Tournament announced - by Eurobasket News

Canadian Basketball Federation announced 12 player roster for the Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Ankara. Last cuts made by the team are Janelle Bekkering, Krysten Boogaard, Megan Pinske and Kendel Ross.

Name Height Position DOB Club
Natalie Achonwa 190 cm forward 22.11.1992 University of Notre Dame, USA
Chelsea Aubry 188 cm forward 27.06.1984 Bendigo Spirit, Australia
Miranda Ayim 191 cm forward 06.05.1988 Istanbul University, Turkey
Teresa Gabriele 165 cm guard 23.11.1979 Training in Canada
Lizanne Murphy 185 cm forward 15.03.1984 Tarbes, France
Krista Phillips 198 cm forward 18.05.1988 Dandenong, Australia
Courtnay Pilypaitis 184 cm guard 11.02.1988 VICI Kaunas, Lithuania
Michelle Plouffe 191 cm forward 15.09.1992 Utah University, USA
Kim Smith 185 cm forward 07.05.1984 Training in Canada/USA
Alisha Tatham 180 cm guard 14.10.1986 Training in Canada
Tamara Tatham 185 cm forward 19.08.1985 Halles, Germany
Shona Thorburn 178 cm guard 07.08.1982 Girona, Spain

Canada is placed to Group D with France and Mali. This tournament will consist of 12 teams of which the top five teams earn a place in the Olympic Games in London. It will be held 25 June 1 July 2012 in Ankara, Turkey. The top eight teams qualify for the knockout round. All four quarterfinal winners advance to the Olympics, then the four quarterfinal losers play two rounds to allocate the final slot. Before Ankara, Canada will play friendly games against Great Britain, Czech Republic, Croatia and France. Games will be played in Great Britain and France.


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  DENMARK   


Todd Anthony takes over Amager - by Eurobasket News

BK Amager have found a new head coach. They assigned Todd Anthony for the job. He will replace Martin Kjaersgaard . Todd Anthony is not new to Denmark. The American specialist has been living in the country for last 15 years. Todd Anthony played for Roskilde, Harlev, Sjealland, Stevnsgade and Amager professionally. He was 1st Division champion with Stevnsgade in 2011. After finishing his players career Todd Anthony worked with various yough mens and womens team. He has no head coaching experience on a high level. Todd Anthony will be starting his stint with Amager shortly.


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  EUROLEAGUE   


Natalie Hurst heading to UNI SEAT Gyor - by Eurobasket News

UNI SEAT Gyor are strengthening their roster for the next season. They have already announced Krisztina Raksanyi (180-G-91), Rita Rasheed (180-F-89, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) and Chay Shegog (195-C-90, college: N.Carolina). Now the team is ready to announce another player. The Hungarian powerhouse agreed on terms of contract with Natalie Hurst (163-G-83). The Aussie guard spent the last season in France. Natalie Hurst played for Pays d'Aix Basket. She tallied 15.5 points, 3.2 boards, 3.5 assists and 1.2 steals per game in LFB. The guard was named into French LFB All-Imports Team. It was the second straight season with Pays d'Aix Basket for Natalie Hurst. Previously she played for the Canberra Capitals. She has been the member of Australian National Team since 2009.


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  FRANCE   


France edge Poland in Bourg-en-Bresse - by Eurobasket News

France -Poland 88:55

France edge Poland in Bourg-en-Bresse for the third straight win the friendly campaigns. The home side added 88:55 victory in game 3.
France took 10-8 lead and enjoyed 17:12 after the first period. They increased to 29:17 and led 38:26 at the halftime. Moreover the lead grew to 15 points midway through the third quarter and then France closed it at 65:46. Poland never caught up and lost also the last stanza. France managed to push the tempo again to seal a 33-point victory.
Sandrine Gruda (193-C-87) top-scored for the winners with 18 points and Isabelle Yacoubou-Dehoui (190-C-86) as well as Edwige Lawson-Wade (166-PG-79) posted 12 each. Celine Dumerc (169-G-82) followed them with 10 points. Aleksandra Chomac (191-C-85, agency: Data Plus Group) ended up with 12 points in the losing effort, while Patrycja Gulak-Lipka (192-C-82, college: Massachusetts) added 8. Paulina Pawlak (170-PG-84, agency: Data Plus Group), Joanna Walich (183-F/C-81) and Martyna Koc (186-C-83) scored 6 points each in a loss.

France: Sandrine Gruda 18, Isabelle Yacoubou-Dehoui 12, Edwige Lawson-Wade 12, Celine Dumerc 10
Poland: Aleksandra Chomac 12, Patrycja Gulak-Lipka 8, Paulina Pawlak 6, Joanna Walich 6, Martyna Koc 6


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  HUNGARY   


UNI SEAT Gyor lands Krisztina Raksanyi - by Eurobasket News

Krisztina Raksanyi (180-G-91) is a new member of UNI SEAT Gyor. The Hungarian guard penned a deal for the next season. Raksanyi spent the last two with Pecs 2010. She had 11 ppg, 3.4 rpg, 2.7 apg and 1.8 spg for 27 games in the latest one. In 2010/11, the guard averaged 7.5 points and 2.1 rebounds in Hungary. She also added 3.5 ppg and 1.4 rpg for 12 Euroleague games. Raksanyi is a product of Pecs, where she started as a teenager. Krisztina Raksanyi participated at Hungarian NT training camp last summer. In the past, she also played for U20, U18 and U16 Hungary. With U18 National Team, Raksanyi won the Gold at 2009 EuroBasket U18 Division B in Israel. She had 11.5 ppg, 3.5 rpg and 2.5 apg for 8 games at this event. That same year Raksanyi was All-Hungarian League Newcomer of the Year.
UNI SEAT Gyor is also close to sign a deal with Natalie Hurst (163-G-83).


Natalie Hurst heading to UNI SEAT Gyor - by Eurobasket News

UNI SEAT Gyor are strengthening their roster for the next season. They have already announced Krisztina Raksanyi, Rita Rasheed and Chay Shegog. Now the team is ready to announce another player. The Hungarian powerhouse agreed on terms of contract with Natalie Hurst. The Aussie guard spent the last season in France. Natalie Hurst played for Pays dAix Basket. She tallied 15.5 points, 3.2 boards, 3.5 assists and 1.2 steals per game in LFB. The guard was named into French LFB All-Imports Team. It was the second straight season with Pays dAix Basket for Natalie Hurst. Previously she played for the Canberra Capitals. She has been the member of Australian National Team since 2009.


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  ISRAEL   


Ramat Hasharon tab Alexis Gray-Lawson - by Eurobasket News

Ramat Hasharon bolstered their backcourt. They added Alexis Gray-Lawson (173-PG-87, college: California) to the squad. The guard is not new to Israel. She played for Hapoel Rishon Le-Zion last season. Alexis Gray-Lawson averaged 20.4 points, 4.9 rebounds, 4.1 assists and 2.1 steals per game in D1. Eurobasket.com named her into All-Israeli League 2nd Team. She was the third best scorer in the league. Previously the guard played in Turkey and WNBA. Currently Alexis Gray-Lawson is playing in the WNBA for the Phoenix Mercury. Her stats read 5.2 points, 2.2 boards and 1.7 assists per appearance.


Israel finish Belgrade Trophy tournament with win - by Eurobasket News

Israel - Romania 75:63

Israel finished the international Belgrade Trophy tournament on a high note. They fired past Romania to improve at 1-2 record. Shay Doron (175-SG-85, college: Maryland) accounted for 19 points to lead the winners. Romania fell at 0-3 record after the loss.
Romania led early in the encounter but Israel managed to tie things up at 22 after ten minutes. They went on a 13:3 run late in the second quarter to post a 42:31 lead. Israel started to get away in the third quarter. They piled up a 12-point lead at the final break 58:46. The margin grew at 15-point mark midway through the final stanza and Israel never looked back en route to the win. Jennifer Fleisher (195-C-84, college: Pennsylvania) chipped in 13 points, while Shiran Tzairi (166-PG-86, agency: Data Plus Group) added 12 points in the win. Elisabeth Pavel (192-C-90) and Gabriela Marginean (182-F-87, college: Drexel) nailed 10 points each for Romania.

Israel: Shay Doron 19, Jennifer Fleisher 13, Shiran Tzairi 12
Romania: Elisabeth Pavel 10, Gabriela Marginean 10


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  ITALY   


Serbia fire past Italy to win Belgrade Trophy tournament - by Eurobasket News

Serbia Italy 88:61

Serbia clinched the Belgrade Trophy international tournament title. They shot down Italy in the third round to finish the tourney undefeated. Ana Dabovic scored 20 points to lead the winners.
Serbia left Italy far behind in the opening quarter. The hosts initiated a 30:10 run to take a comfortable lead. Serbia extended the lead in the second quarter. They posted a 48:24 halftime lead. Serbia kept Italy at bay throughout the third term. The home team secured a 30-point advantage before the fourth quarter. Italy finally managed to show some offensive aggressiveness in the final term as they knocked down 22 points and cut the distance a bit. Nevena Jovanovic accounted for 14 points for Serbia. Jelena Maksimovic had 9 points in the win. Wabara answered with 12 points for Italy. Zanoni had 11 points in the loss.

Serbia: Ana Dabovic 20, Nevena Jovanovic 14, Jelena Maksimovic 9
Italy: Wabara 12, Zanoni 11


Fila San Martino hires Gianluca Abignente as new Head Coach - by Eurobasket News

Fila San Martino got a new Head Coach. The participant of Serie A2 hired Gianluca Abignente for the next season. Most recently the Italian specialist worked with Udine. He coached them from 2006 to 2011. In their last season together Abignente led Udine to Group South Finals (A2). They were the regular season champions in this pool. In 2010, Udine was third ranked team in Group South. They ended at the same spot in 2009. Gianluca Abignente s new team Fila San Martino reached Semifinals in Group North this season. They lost it to Bologna. Fila San Martino was third ranked team of the regular season in Group North with 20-6 record.


Eurobasket.com All-Italian A2 Awards 2011-12 - by Carlo Grilli

Eurobasket.com All-Italian A2 1st Team 2012
#s#
Eleonora Laffi
Laffi
Debora Gonzalez
Gonzalez
Marija Micovic
Micovic
Clarisse Machanguana
Machanguana
#e#4

Player of The Year: Eleonora Laffi (188-F-83) of Vigarano
Guard of The Year: Debora Gonzalez (172-PG-90) of Chieti
Forward of The Year: Marija Micovic (183-F-82) of S. La Spezia
Center of The Year: Clarisse Machanguana (194-C-73) of Ragusa
Bosman Player of The Year: Milena Tomova (189-F/C-82) of Napoli BK
Domestic Player of The Year: Eleonora Laffi of Vigarano
Defensive Player of The Year: Anna Denti (185-F/C-83) of Bologna
Coach of The Year: Luigi Piatti of Bologna

1st Team
PG: Debora Gonzalez (172-90) of Chieti
F: Marija Micovic (183-82) of S. La Spezia
G: Annalisa Borroni (183-83) of Muggia
F: Eleonora Laffi (188-83) of Vigarano
C: Clarisse Machanguana (194-73) of Ragusa

2nd Team
F: Magdalena Losi (173-80) of Vigarano
F: Eleonora Costi (180-83) of Bologna
G: Carola Sordi (179-82) of Ancona
F/C: Milena Tomova (189-82) of Napoli BK
C: Elisabeth Pavel (192-90) of Napoli S.Dike

Honorable Mention Team
Maria Buzzanca (171-G-76) of Ragusa
Virginia Galbiati (173-G-92) of Biassono
Jessica Cergol (180-G-85) of Muggia
Karolina Piotrkiewicz (190-C-84) of Bolzano
Anna Rimpova (183-F-82) of Marghera

All-Domestic Players Team
G: Annalisa Borroni (183-83) of Muggia
PG: Debora Gonzalez (172-90) of Chieti
F: Eleonora Costi (180-83) of Bologna
F: Eleonora Laffi (188-83) of Vigarano
F/C: Martina Sandri (185-88) of San Martino

All-Imports Team
PG: Raelin D'Alie (168-87) of Battipaglia
F: Marija Micovic (183-82) of S. La Spezia
F: Valentina Aragonese (173-79) of O.G. Collegno
F/C: Radostina Slavova-Naneva (188-86) of Alghero
C: Clarisse Machanguana (194-73) of Ragusa

All-Bosmans Team
G/F: Daniela Georgieva (184-86) of Pomezia
F: Marija Micovic (183-82) of S. La Spezia
G: Josefin Olheim (176-86) of Chieti
F/C: Lauma Reke (185-86) of Orvieto
C: Elisabeth Pavel (192-90) of Napoli S.Dike

All-Defensive Team
Valeria Zanoli (170-G-84) of Bologna
Anna Rimpova (183-F-82) of Marghera
Ntumba Madelene Mitongu (180-F/C-81) of Lucsa Milano
Anna Denti (185-F/C-83) of Bologna
Martina Rejchova (195-C-83) of S.E.Battipaglia


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


Montenegro defeat Portugal in Cetinje - by Eurobasket News

Montenegro - Portugal 77:45

Montenegro celebrated a confident win over Portugal in the exhibition clash between the team in Cetinje. Jelena Dubljevic (191-C-87) stepped up with 21 points to lead the hosts. The teams are scheduled to meet again in Lovcen tonight.
Montenegro dominated from the starting minutes. The Balkan team piled up a 24:16 lead after ten minutes. They limited Portugal to only 8 points in the second quarter to take a 21-point lead at halftime 45:24. Montenegro kept their opponents at bay throughout the third term. The hosts secured a massive 26-point buffer before the final stanza. Portugal never recovered scoring just 9 points in the fourth period and surrendering at the end. Iva Perovanovic (189-C/F-83) produced 15 points, while Ana Turcinovic (190-C-93) had 8 in the victory. Ana Oliveira (176-F-83, college: UTSA) answered with 10 points for Portugal. Joana Lopes (185-SF-86) and Sofia Carolina netted 8 points each in the loss.

Montenegro: Jelena Dubljevic 21, Iva Perovanovic 15, Ana Turcinovic 8
Portugal: Ana Oliveira 10, Joana Lopes 8, Sofia Carolina 8


Montenegro post second win over Portugal - by Eurobasket News

Montenegro - Portugal 70:57

Montenegro posted the second straight win over Portugal in the exhibition series. Jelena Skerovic (176-G-80, agency: Josep and Nicolas) came up with 17 points to lead the hosts. Portugal however much improved their performance outscoring the hosts in the second half.
Montenegro started the game strong. The hosts accumulated a 23:11 lead after ten minutes. The margin just kept on growing in the second quarter. The Balkan team established a 45:23 halftime advantage. But Portugal showed signs of recovery after the big break. They narrowed the distance by four points in the third quarter. Portugal went on a 12:7 run in the fourth frame to get even closer however not too close to threaten the deficit. Jelena Dubljevic (191-C-87) and Milica Jovanovic (189-F/C-89) produced 12 points each for the home team. Carla Nascimento (171-G-86) and Carla Freitas (170-G-80) accounted for 11 points each for Portugal.

Montenegro: Jelena Skerovic 17, Jelena Dubljevic 12, Milica Jovanovic 12
Portugal: Carla Nascimento 11, Carla Freitas 11


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


New Zealand National Team 2012 - by Eurobasket Center

New Zealand National Team 2012
#s#
Casey Lockwood
Lockwood
Natalie Taylor
Taylor
Charmain Purcell
Purcell
Noni Wharemate
Wharemate
Lisa Wallbutton
Wallbutton
#e#5
Casey Lockwood 183-F-85 Oceana GR New Zealand
Natalie Taylor 182-F-84 Logan T. Australia
Charmain Purcell 180-G/F-79 Sheffield Hatters United Kingdom
Noni Wharemate 171-G-82 Harbour B. New Zealand
Lisa Wallbutton 183-C/F-86 Bendigo S. Australia
Jillian Harmon 185-F-87 Comense Italy
Micaela Cocks 173-G-86 Townsville F. Australia
Kate McMeeken-Ruscoe 170-G-79 Logan T. Australia
Jordan Hunter Palmerston New Zealand
Antonia Edmondson 180-F-87 Adelaide Australia
Karlene Kingi 188-C-85 Stirling S. Australia
Erin Rooney 172-G Fordham USA

Kennedy Hamilton-Kereama Head Coach



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

1Liga Stats Leaders - by Greg

Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1 Rozynska, Olsztyn 18.6
2 Dandyk, GTK 17.3
3 Durak, Kornik 16.5
4 Stasiuk, Sokolow 16.4
5 Kowalska, Siedlce 16.2
6 Kaczmarska, GTK 16.0
7 Idziorek, Kornik 15.4
8 Gajdosz, Siedlce 15.3
9 Mycka, UMCS 15.2
10 Dabkowska, Siemaszka 15.0
10 Gala, GTK 15.0
Rebounds Per Game
1 Szczepanik, CCC II 10.0
1 Dabkowska, Siemaszka 10.0
1 Szczesniak, JG 10.0
4 Grzesczyk, Lider 9.8
4 Stelmach, SMS 9.8
6 Jurkowska, Siedlce 9.5
7 Telenga, Lider 8.8
8 Sobczyk, L.S.P. 8.5
8 Szemraj, Konin 8.5
10 Stasiuk, Sokolow 8.4
Assists Per Game
1 Zietara, GTK 7.0
2 Krawczyszyn, JG 5.0
3 Dziwinska, CCC II 4.4
4 Rafalowicz, Rzeszow 4.4
5 Markiewicz, Olsztyn 4.4
6 Owczarzak, Kornik 4.3
7 Rozynska, Olsztyn 4.2
8 Piestrzynska, L.S.P. 4.1
9 Romanek, AZS UW 3.6
9 Toporowska, Sokolow 3.6
Steals Per Game
1 Owczarzak, Kornik 5.5
2 Zietara, GTK 5.0
3 Markiewicz, Olszytn 4.3
4 Rafalowicz, Rzeszow 3.5
5 Krzywon, Siemaszka 3.1
5 Pazdzierska, Ostrovia 3.1
7 Dziwinska, CCC II 3.0
7 Gala, GTK 3.0
7 Casimiro, Kornik 3.0
10 Kacperska, Kornik 2.9
10 Furdak, Rzeszow 2.9


France edge Poland in Bourg-en-Bresse - by Eurobasket News

France -Poland 88:55

France edge Poland in Bourg-en-Bresse for the third straight win the friendly campaigns. The home side added 88:55 victory in game 3.
France took 10-8 lead and enjoyed 17:12 after the first period. They increased to 29:17 and led 38:26 at the halftime. Moreover the lead grew to 15 points midway through the third quarter and then France closed it at 65:46. Poland never caught up and lost also the last stanza. France managed to push the tempo again to seal a 33-point victory.
Sandrine Gruda (193-C-87) top-scored for the winners with 18 points and Isabelle Yacoubou-Dehoui (190-C-86) as well as Edwige Lawson-Wade (166-PG-79) posted 12 each. Celine Dumerc (169-G-82) followed them with 10 points. Aleksandra Chomac (191-C-85, agency: Data Plus Group) ended up with 12 points in the losing effort, while Patrycja Gulak-Lipka (192-C-82, college: Massachusetts) added 8. Paulina Pawlak (170-PG-84, agency: Data Plus Group), Joanna Walich (183-F/C-81) and Martyna Koc (186-C-83) scored 6 points each in a loss.

France: Sandrine Gruda 18, Isabelle Yacoubou-Dehoui 12, Edwige Lawson-Wade 12, Celine Dumerc 10
Poland: Aleksandra Chomac 12, Patrycja Gulak-Lipka 8, Paulina Pawlak 6, Joanna Walich 6, Martyna Koc 6


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


Montenegro defeat Portugal in Cetinje - by Eurobasket News

Montenegro - Portugal 77:45

Montenegro celebrated a confident win over Portugal in the exhibition clash between the team in Cetinje. Jelena Dubljevic (191-C-87) stepped up with 21 points to lead the hosts. The teams are scheduled to meet again in Lovcen tonight.
Montenegro dominated from the starting minutes. The Balkan team piled up a 24:16 lead after ten minutes. They limited Portugal to only 8 points in the second quarter to take a 21-point lead at halftime 45:24. Montenegro kept their opponents at bay throughout the third term. The hosts secured a massive 26-point buffer before the final stanza. Portugal never recovered scoring just 9 points in the fourth period and surrendering at the end. Iva Perovanovic (189-C/F-83) produced 15 points, while Ana Turcinovic (190-C-93) had 8 in the victory. Ana Oliveira (176-F-83, college: UTSA) answered with 10 points for Portugal. Joana Lopes (185-SF-86) and Sofia Carolina netted 8 points each in the loss.

Montenegro: Jelena Dubljevic 21, Iva Perovanovic 15, Ana Turcinovic 8
Portugal: Ana Oliveira 10, Joana Lopes 8, Sofia Carolina 8


Montenegro post second win over Portugal - by Eurobasket News

Montenegro - Portugal 70:57

Montenegro posted the second straight win over Portugal in the exhibition series. Jelena Skerovic (176-G-80, agency: Josep and Nicolas) came up with 17 points to lead the hosts. Portugal however much improved their performance outscoring the hosts in the second half.
Montenegro started the game strong. The hosts accumulated a 23:11 lead after ten minutes. The margin just kept on growing in the second quarter. The Balkan team established a 45:23 halftime advantage. But Portugal showed signs of recovery after the big break. They narrowed the distance by four points in the third quarter. Portugal went on a 12:7 run in the fourth frame to get even closer however not too close to threaten the deficit. Jelena Dubljevic (191-C-87) and Milica Jovanovic (189-F/C-89) produced 12 points each for the home team. Carla Nascimento (171-G-86) and Carla Freitas (170-G-80) accounted for 11 points each for Portugal.

Montenegro: Jelena Skerovic 17, Jelena Dubljevic 12, Milica Jovanovic 12
Portugal: Carla Nascimento 11, Carla Freitas 11


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


Israel finish Belgrade Trophy tournament with win - by Eurobasket News

Israel Romania 75:63

Israel finished the international Belgrade Trophy tournament on a high note. They fired past Romania to improve at 1-2 record. Shay Doron accounted for 19 points to lead the winners. Romania fell at 0-3 record after the loss.
Romania led early in the encounter but Israel managed to tie things up at 22 after ten minutes. They went on a 13:3 run late in the second quarter to post a 42:31 lead. Israel started to get away in the third quarter. They piled up a 12-point lead at the final break 58:46. The margin grew at 15-point mark midway through the final stanza and Israel never looked back en route to the win. Fleischer chipped in 13 points, while Zairy added 12 points in the win. Pavel and Marginean nailed 10 points each for Romania.

Israel: Shay Doron 19, Fleischer 13, Zairy 12
Romania: Pavel 10, Marginean 10


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


Serbia fire past Italy to win Belgrade Trophy tournament - by Eurobasket News

Serbia - Italy 88:61

Serbia clinched the Belgrade Trophy international tournament title. They shot down Italy in the third round to finish the tourney undefeated. Ana Dabovic (183-G/F-89) scored 20 points to lead the winners.
Serbia left Italy far behind in the opening quarter. The hosts initiated a 30:10 run to take a comfortable lead. Serbia extended the lead in the second quarter. They posted a 48:24 halftime lead. Serbia kept Italy at bay throughout the third term. The home team secured a 30-point advantage before the fourth quarter. Italy finally managed to show some offensive aggressiveness in the final term as they knocked down 22 points and cut the distance a bit. Nevena Jovanovic (179-G-90) accounted for 14 points for Serbia. Jelena Maksimovic (192-C-82) had 9 points in the win. Nnena Wabara (183-F-81, agency: Two Points, college: Baylor) answered with 12 points for Italy. Ilaria Zanoni (180-G-86) had 11 points in the loss.

Serbia: Ana Dabovic 20, Nevena Jovanovic 14, Jelena Maksimovic 9
Italy: Nnena Wabara 12, Ilaria Zanoni 11


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


Letkova moves to Spisska Nova Ves - by Barbora Stuchlikova

Spisska Nova Ves have signed Slovak forward Martina Letkova (189-F-92). Letkova spent previous season in Czech BK Lokomotiva Karlovy Vary averaging 1.7 points. Her team didn't advance to semifinals and finished the season with seventh place.
Letkova entered Slovak Extraliga in season 2006-07 with BK UMB 08 Banska Bystrica at the age of 14 netting 7 points in six games. After two-year-brake from the league she came back and got valuable court time with around 24 minutes and 8,1 points per game. In Slovak NT, she participated in U16 and U18 European Championships.


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


FGCU playing in Virgin Islands tourney in November - by David Edole

The Florida Gulf Coast University womens basketball team will be going tropical this November as the Eagles will participate in the 2012 U.S. Virgin Islands Paradise Jam at University of the Virgin Islands, which will take place Nov. 22-24.

The Eagles will compete in the Reef Division and will face Big East member DePaul, the SECs South Carolina and Hampton in the three-day event.

The Paradise Jam is one of the most competitive events in womens basketball, FGCU coach Karl Smesko said. We try to schedule something special for our players every year, and this is a special event. It should be a great challenge.

FGCU will meet each of their opponents at the Paradise Jam for the first time in program history. The three opponents all advanced to the NCAA Tournament last season and won over 20 games, combining for a 74-26 overall record.

The Eagles' first game is against DePaul on Thursday, Nov. 22 at 3:30 p.m. ET. On Nov. 23 at 3:30 p.m. ET, FGCU will face South Carolina, and the Eagles wrap things up against Hampton on Nov. 24 at 1:15 p.m. ET.

Ranked No. 24 in the final ESPN/USA Today Coaches Poll (April 3), DePaul finished the 2011-12 season with a 23-11 overall record (9-7 Big East) and fell to Tennessee in the second round of the NCAA tournament. The Blue Demons, who set program records for 3-pointers (156) and 3-point field goal attempts (753), return their top three scorers, highlighted by the Big Easts leading scorer Anna Martin (19.1 ppg).

Dawn Staley, the 2012 Black Coaches and Administrators Female Coach of the Year, a three-time Olympic gold medalist and one of the most decorated participants in United States women's basketball history, led herGamecocks to a 25-10 overall record (10-6 SEC) and fell to Stanford in the Sweet 16 of the NCAA tournament.

South Carolina was ranked No. 21 in the final ESPN/USA Today Coaches Poll and drew the No. 25 position in the last AP Top 25, which was released prior to the NCAA tournament. The Gamecocks 25 total wins and 10 SEC victories tied the 2001-02 team for the most in the SEC era. South Carolina defeated six top-25 teams, including five wins either on the road or at a neutral site, and, after tying for fourth in the regular-season standings, reached the SEC tournament semifinals for the first time in school history.

Hampton, which finished 26-5 overall (15-1 MEAC) last season and lost to Stanford in the opening round of the NCAA tournament, ranked No. 8 in the final CollegeInsider.com Mid-Major Top 25.

Hampton won its second straight MEAC regular-season title and third straight MEAC tournament crown, while also setting a school Division I record for victories in a single season. The Pirates will have a different look next season, as they will be without their top three scorers, who accounted for 57.2 percent of HUs scoring in 2011-12, including a first team All-MEAC selection and MEAC Tournament Most Outstanding Player in Jericka Jenkins.

The Paradise Jam is held at the University of the Virgin Islands on St. Thomas, outside the USVI capital city of Charlotte Amalie. For more information on the Paradise Jam, please log on to http://www.paradisejam.com/womens-tournament-info/.

Game times for the Paradise Jam are subject to change depending on television coverage.

The Eagles are coming of the most historic season in its Division I history, advancing to the NCAA Tournament and earning a No. 12 seed in the Raleigh Region.

Led by three-time Atlantic Sun Coach of the Year Smesko, FGCU finished with a 29-3 overall record that included a league-first 18-0 mark in the A-Sun. The Eagles verified the conferences third-ever unbeaten regular season by cruising through the Atlantic Sun Tournament, taking the leagues automatic berth into the NCAA Tournament with a convincing 67-39 win over second-seeded and 20-game winner Stetson. The Eagles, with their seven trifectas vs. St. Bonaventure in the first round of the NCAA Tournament, set the NCAA record for three-pointers in a season (342).

Smesko, who is entering his 11th year with the Eagles, returns six players from last years squad and welcomes in a stellar recruiting class, which includes transfers Jenna Cobb of Butler and Betsy Adams of Valparaiso and freshmen Amanda Moore of Seymour, Ind., DyTiesha Dunson of Albany, Ga., Jamie Gluesing of Greendale, Wis., Bethany Murrell of New Palestine, Ind., Katie Meador of Salem, Ill., and Taylor Gradinjan of Cudahy, Wis.

FGCUs appearance in the Paradise Jam marks the third consecutive season that the Eagles have participated in a road holiday tournament. The Eagles defeated Virginia Tech (73-65) and Montana (68-52) in the 2010 Caribbean Challenge in Cancun, Mexico. Last season at the Hawaii Rainbow Wahine Invitational in Honolulu, Hawaii, FGCU fell to NC State (69-64) and picked up victories over Hawaii (72-52) and Alcorn State (85-38).


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

Standings

WNBA Standings
Eastern
 1. Indiana F. 4-1 
 2. Connecticut S. 4-1 
 3. Chicago S. 4-1 
 4. Atlanta D. 2-4 
 5. New York L. 2-5 
 6. Washington M. 1-4 
Western
 1. Minnesota L. 7-0 
 2. L.Angeles S. 4-2 
 3. S.Antonio SS 2-3 
 4. Seattle S. 2-3 
 5. Phoenix M. 2-4 
 6. Tulsa S. 0-6 

Regular Season: Round 10

Jun. 5: New York L. - Atlanta D. 79-74
Jun. 6: Minnesota L. - Seattle S.
Jun. 8: Washington M. - New York L.
Jun. 8: Indiana F. - Connecticut S.
Jun. 8: Atlanta D. - S.Antonio SS
Jun. 8: Chicago S. - Tulsa S.
Jun. 8: L.Angeles S. - Phoenix M.


Atlanta Dream sign Jessica Moore, release Courtney Paris - by Eurobasket News

Atlanta Dream announced signing of Jessica Moore (6'3''-C-82, college: Connecticut) for rest of the season. At the same time, the Dream parted ways with Courtney Paris (6'4''-C-87, college: Oklahoma).
Jessica Moore played for the Connecticut Sun last season. She appeared 29 times in the league averaging 1.8 points. In 2010, Moore had 2.9 ppg and 3 rpg for 35 games with Indiana Fever. In the past, she also played for the Los Angeles Sparks and in Europe as well.
Courtney Paris played four games with Atlanta this season averaging 1.5 points and 2 rebounds. She played for Atlanta also last season. At that time Paris had 3.1 ppg and 2.9 rpg for 32 games. In 2009, she was a member of the Sacramento Monarchs. Paris also has experience from Turkey, Spain and Israel.


Prince and Bonner are Players of the Week - by Eurobasket News

Epiphanny Prince (5'9''-G-88, college: Rutgers) of the Chicago Sky and DeWanna Bonner (6'4''-G-87, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Auburn) of the Phoenix Mercury were named the WNBAs Eastern and Western Conference Players of the Week, respectively, for games played May 28-June 3.

For Prince, now in her third WNBA season, the Player of the Week award is the first such honor of her career. The product of Rutgers led Chicago to a 3-0 record, with road wins at San Antonio and over defending Eastern Conference champion Atlanta, as well as a home win over Washington. In the process, Prince engineered consecutive comeback victories, leading the Sky back from eight points down with less than two minutes to play vs. Washington; and from 22 points down at Atlanta the following night.

Prince, who leads the Fever in scoring and steals (23.8 ppg and 2.6 spg), paced the WNBA in scoring (28.7 ppg) and minutes (37.0 mpg) during the week. She also ranked seventh in both three-point shooting (.571 on 12 of 21), and steals (2.33 spg).

Prince opened the week with 22 points, five steals and six rebounds in a77-63 victory at the Silver Stars and then tallied back-to-back efforts of 30-plus points while bringing Chicago from behind both times. Prince first rallied the Sky past the Mystics, 65-63, with 31 points, including 16 of Chicagos 22 fourth quarter points. The next day in Atlanta, Chicagos first round draft pick of 2010 guided the Sky to a franchise-best 22-point comeback, hitting a three-point shot at the buzzer to send the game into overtime and then scoring all eight of her teams points in the extra period for a 94-92 win.

For Bonner, winner of the WNBAs Sixth Woman of the Year award in each of the past three seasons, this marks the second Player of the Week award.

The Mercury guard/forward ranked third in the WNBA in rebounds (10.7 rpg) and fourth in scoring (20.7 ppg) as Phoenix posted a 1-2 record. She also ranked second in minutes (36.3 mpg), trailing only Prince.

A product of Auburn University, Bonner began and ended her week with a double-double, first tallying 22 points, 10 boards, three steals and three assists in a road loss at Atlanta, and closing the week with 23 points and 13 rebounds in a 79-72 win over Tulsa. In between, Bonner narrowly missed another double-double, finishing with 17 points and nine boards as Phoenix fell at San Antonio. Her two 10-plus-rebound games increased her career total to 20, tying her with Candice Dupree for the most in franchise history.

Other candidates for WNBA Players of the Week were Atlantas Angel McCoughtry, Connecticuts Tina Charles, and Washingtons Crystal Langhorne in the East, as well as Los Angeles Kristi Toliver, Minnesotas Rebekkah Brunson, San Antonios Becky Hammon, Seattles Sue Bird, and Tulsas Jennifer Lacy in the West.

Courtesy of www.hoopfeed.com


Conference-leading Lynx only team in West not shorthanded - by Eurobasket News

The Western Conference is quickly turning into a two-team race between the Lynx and the Los Angles Sparks.

Less than three weeks into the regular season, the Lynx (7-0) hold a 1.5 game lead over the Sparks (5-1) and the other four teams are all under .500 and between 4 and 6.5 games back.

Part of the trouble those teams are having stem from missing or injured players. Every team has been affected, including L.A., except the Lynx. The lowdown:

Los Angeles: Backup center Nicky Anosike (6'3''-F/C-86, college: Tennessee), a starter for the Lynx her first three seasons in the WNBA from 2008 to 2010, had arthroscopic knee surgery on her left knee on May 30 and is expected to miss six weeks.

Backup point guard Sharnee Zoll (5'7''-PG-86, college: Virginia), who played six games with the Lynx as a rookie in 2008, is out for the season with a torn ACL in her left knee.

So the Sparks are playing with nine players.

San Antonio: Tangela Smith (6'4''-F/C-77, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Iowa), a 6-3 center expected to provide rebounding help, had surgery on the meniscus in her left knee on Thursday and is expected to be out at least a month.

Seattle: Forward Lauren Jackson, a three-time WNBA MVP, is training with Australia for the Olympics. She will rejoin the Storm for the second half of the season.

Tulsa: Center Liz Cambage, the No. 2 pick in the 2011 WNBA draft, is gone also. She is one of Jackson's teammates with the Aussies.

Phoenix: The Mercury have been torn apart the worst. Forward Penny Taylor, another Aussie, won't be able to play for her country or for the Mercury this season because of knee surgery for a torn ACL in mid-April.

Guard Diana Taurasi (6'0''-F/G-82, college: Connecticut), the WNBA's leading scorer the past four seasons, has missed four games already because of a strained left hip flexor. Phoenix coach Corey Gaines said she is 'week to week.'

That's the challenge of an 11-player roster,' San Antonio coach Dan Hughes said. 'All the pieces are pretty impactful. Its the reality of what we got to deal with. You are lucky if you are Minnesota and you are not dealing with one of them.'


IMPRESSED WITH LYNX

Last year when I played [the Lynx] in the playoffs, I had a feeling when we were done that they wouldnt lose again, Hughes said. Now this year what they have done is just carried it right over.'

After beating the Silver Stars 2-1 in the Western Conference semifinals, the Lynx beat Phoenix 2-0 in the Western Conference finals and Atlanta 3-0 in the WNBA finals.

They have done a great job of taking the momentum that they have gathered and not sitting on last year, but kind of building on it,' Hughes said. 'They are playing really well.

They challenge everybody with rebounding. We are statistically a little better in rebounding, we are about even at this point.'

Last year the Silver Stars were last in rebounding.

So how come the Lynx rebound so well, they are not big? Ya, they are,' Hughes said. 'Take a look at their length at the perimeter positions. Maya Moore (6'0''-F-89, college: Connecticut), Seimone Augustus. Their size is very good for the guard position. And relatively inside, it all starts with Brunson. I am not sure I can name you a better rebounder in our league than Brunson.

Their length is one of their real secrets. That Moore and Augustus, they are the same size as my post players. Their length there is pretty real.

Hughes said San Antonio is still looking for a third player to contribute on offense.

For us to be successful, we probably have to have a third piece to be impactful to beat the really good teams,' he said. 'We have had fairly balanced scoring. We have had real good play out of [Sophia] Young and Becky [Hammon] both. For us to be really special, we kind of need that third player to really rise up and be impactful at that same level.'

'It could be [reserve forward Danielle] Adams. [Jia] Perkins fills it a lot for us. I think Shameka Christon, if she gets healthier, she could certainly add into that area there. When we start getting a third player impacting it at that level, and we get pretty balanced scoring across the board with other people, that is when we go to another level.

The Lynx, Hughes said, are already there: You never hurry them up. They do what they want to do. And then the part that kicks you the most, they are as good an offensive rebounding team as we play. So if they do occasionally miss, they are pounding it back in. That makes it a hard night for you.


LAST WORD

Moore on game strategy: 'When the other team counters your Plan A, you have to have a Plan B, a Plan C.'

Maya Moore said her grandparents, who are both in their early 80's and watched her play two games at Target Center over the weekend, never critique her. 'They are just happy that I am playing,' Moore said. 'They are just great. They have shown me so much unconditional love and support since I was -- before I was born. I just love having them there and seeing them smile

On the benefits of finishing the 2011 season with six wins in the playoffs: 'Ending the season the way we did was definitely a great feeling. But I don't know if we are necessarily looking back at that last season for that. We are looking at it as momentum. But we are not looking at it as we don't have to work hard anymore. It's a new year. We are trying to start new runs. We are trying to do some new things with the same group.'

Courtesy of www.startribune.com


Lynx making franchise history with every win - by Eurobasket News

The Lynx beat San Antonio 83-79 on Sunday at Target Center, meaning it's time to update what another victory means. A look at all the streaks the Lynx have going:

* Seven wins to start the season, a franchise record. ... The league record is nine held by Los Angeles. The Sparks were 9-0 in 2001 and '03. ... Three other team have started 7-0 like the Lynx. New York in 1997, Houston in 1999 and Detroit in 2007

* Eight consecutive regular-season road wins, going back to last season, a franchise record.

* Ten regular-season victories in a row, going back to last season, breaking a franchise record set in 2011 from July 15 to August 7.

* Ten home victories in a row, six last year counting five playoff games and four in the regular-season this season. ... They are 23-3 at home since the start of the 2011 season, losing only to Indiana, Phoenix and New York in the regular season last year.

* Thirteen victories in a row, counting playoff games last season, an unofficial franchise mark.

* The Lynx are 34-4 since July 15 of last year. On that day they beat Indiana 80-70. ... They are on a pace to go, well, 34-0 since they haven't lost yet. The WNBA record for victories in a single season is 28 held by several teams. They were 27-7 last season.


PREVIOUS 7-0 TEAMS

9-0 Los Angeles 2001 28-4 WNBA champions

9-0 Los Angeles 2003 24-10 WNBA finals

7-0 New York 1997 17-11 WNBA finals

7-0 Houston 1999 26-6 WNBA champions

7-0 Detroit 2007 24-10 WNBA finals

7-0 Lynx 2012 ??? ???


BENCH GOT SILVER STARS GOING

San Antonio coach Dan Hughes said his club's bench got the Silver Stars back into Sunday's game.

'[The Lynx] are a good team and they were doing a lot of things well early,' Hughes said. 'We just didn't fight it in a way. Then in the second half, you saw us fight tings a little bit more, closer to what we try to do. It's just a strange game.'

At halftime, the Lynx led 50-29. 'They probably relaxed a little bit,' Hughes said. 'We got more aggressive and then we got more cohesive. It's amazing what you start to do if you start doing things hard and together. Then the momentum changed. Momentum is a very delicate thing.'

Hughes said the Lynx looked in rhythm from last season. His team he said, ws still trying to develop chemistry and a rotation.

'Quite honestly, [Sunday] was huge for us because we moved our rotation to a point that now we can get some really strong play off the bench,' he said.

San Antonio's bench scored 48 points, led by Danielle Adams with 21 and Jia Perkins with 16. They were the Siler Stars' two top scorers. The Lynx bench had 16 points. Three players had four.

'[The Lynx] are very much on the same page with a lot of the same people giving great efforts,' Hughes said. 'We're a team that is giving efforts but learning to get on the same page because we have had some inclusion of people. We've just got more distance to cover

'But I told the team afterwards, think about this game because there is a lot to be learned by the lessons from this team.'

Courtesy of www.startribune.com