EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 7/12/2012 1:04:01 AM

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Men News

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  ARGENTINA   



New York Knicks sign Pablo Prigioni, veteran Spanish League point guard - by Eurobasket News

Jeremy Lin (6'3''-PG-88, college: Harvard) has another veteran point-guard mentor - Spanish-style.

The 35-year-old Spanish League veteran Pablo Prigioni (6'3''-G-77) has signed with the Knicks for a one-year, $473,000 minimum contract, his agent George Bass told The Post.

Prigioni, who visited the Knicks three weeks ago, is being brought in as Lin insurance and also to help mentor him in addition to newly-acquired Jason Kidd.

Ive been talking to [Knicks general manager Glen] Grunwald about four, five years about him, Bass said. This is the year it got done. Hes been very persistent checking in about Pablo. Hes a very big fan. Hell bring leadership and will be there to help Jeremy a little bit.

Prigioni will face Team USA in the London Olympics, playing for Argentina. Hes been in the Spanish League since 1999-2000.

He looks to pass before he shoots, Bass said. Hes similar to Jason Kidd, more like a true point guard. Hes excited to be with the Knicks and in New York. Hes excited about everything.

Scouts also say his speciality is the pick-and-roll and may work well with Amare Stoudemire. He is more a slowdown PG a better fit for Mike Woodson than Mike DAntonis speedball.

Bass said Prigioni accepted less money to play in the NBA and is believed to be the oldest rookie in NBA history. The Knicks offered him a two-year deal but Prigioni passed because he feels he can lift his market value after being seen for a season.

The deal wont become official until FIBA clearance is given and that could take at least two days. Knicks European scout Kevin Wilson lives in Barcelona and has seen several of Prigionis games.

Im pretty sure hes better than a lot of young point guards in the NBA you get, Walter Szczerbiak, the former U.S. ambassador to the Spanish League, told The Post last month of Prigioni. He has great experience in tough situations and hes a good leader.

Courtesy of www.nypost.com


Liga Sudamericana 2012/13 - by Facundo Iatzky

ABASU (Southamerican association) released the scedule and the participants for the next season of Liga Sudamericana. The first round will be played in four groups of 4 teams each. The first two teams of each group will advance to second round. And the winners of this round will advance to the final four.
The news for this season is that the first 8 teams of the tournament will play in next Liga de las Americas, with other 8 teams from Mexico and central America.

Schedule:
Group A (Ibarra Ecuador, 9, 10 , 11 october): Obras Sanitarias (Argentina), Pinheiros (Brazil), Centauros Apure (Venezuela) , Mavort (Ecuador).

Group B (Brasilia - Brazil, 16, 17 , 18 october): Regatas Corrientes (argentina), Uniceub (Brazil), Malvin (Uruguay), Amistad (Bolivia).

Group C (Mar del Plata Argentina, el 23, 24 y 25 octubre): Penarol Mar del Plata (Argentina), Flamengo (Brazil), Hebraica Macabi (Uruguay), a team from Chile

Group D (Vargas Venezuela, 30,31 october and November 1 ): Libertad Sunchacles (Argentina), Sao Jose (Brazil), Tiburones (Venezuela), El Bosque Peru.


Libertad bring in Darren Fells and Joaquin Giordana - by Eurobasket News

Libertad Sunchales added two new players to the squad. They landed Darren Fells (201-F/C-86, college: Cal-Irvine) and Joaquin Giordana (182-G-90).
Joaquin Giordana is coming back to Libertad Sunchales where he started his career. The guard then played for Alvear Villa Angela, Union Progresista and Estudiantes Olavarria.
Darren Fells started the previous season in France. He played for Brest in NM1 League. The centre notched 6.7 points, 5.7 rebounds and 1.0 assist per appearance. He then moved to Mexico to sign with Soles de Mexicali. Darren Fells averaged 13.5 points, 7.5 rebounds, 1.5 assists and 1.0 steal per game in LNBP. Later Darren Fells appeared in Argentina where he inked with Obras Sanitarias. The centre posted 8.3 points and 4.6 rebounds per game in LigaA. In Liga Americas Darren Fells delivered 6.9 points and 4.7 rebounds. In Liga Sudamericana his stats read 7.5 points and 4.3 boards.


Argentina beat Chile in Foz de Iguazu - by Eurobasket News

Argentina - Chile 96:62

Argentina claimed the first win in the Super 4 Cup in Foz de Iguazu tournament. They defeated Chile to enter the Final. Paolo Quinteros (185-PG-79) scored 18 points to lead the winners.
Argentina and Chile stayed close throughout the opening frame. Argentina clinched a 16:15 lead ten minutes into the encounter. They stretched the lead in the second quarter. Argentina unloaded 29 points in the period to gain a 16-point lead. Argentina dropped 28 points in the third term as the margin grew at 24-point mark. Argentina did not slow down rallying to a comfortable win at the end. Juan Gutierrez (205-F/C-83) accounted for 16 points, while Hernan Jasen (199-G-78) added 14 points for the winners. Evandro Arteaga (178-G-83) answered with 17 points for Chile. Sebastian Suarez (189-F-91) and Cristobal Infante (201-C-88) scored 8 points each in the loss.

Argentina: Paolo Quinteros 18, Juan Gutierrez 16, Hernan Jasen 14
Chile: Evandro Arteaga 17, Sebastian Suarez 8, Cristobal Infante 8


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  AUSTRIA   


Darnell Gant inks with Oberwart Gunners - by Stefan Prager

The Oberwart Gunners presented their first new addition for the upcoming season in forward Darnell Gant (203-F). Gant is coming from the University of Washington where the 6'8'' forward spent his last five seasons. Gant has had a successful collegiate career reaching the NCAA Sweet 16 in 2008 as well as in 2010. With the Huskies Gant won the PAC10 championship both in 2010 and 2011. In his last season in Washington he played in the NIT final four. In his last season Gant averaged 7.1 ppg along with 5.2 rpg while shooting 53.4% from the field.


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  BALTIC LEAGUE   


Tarvas sign Maris Laksa - by Eurobasket News

Rakvere Tarvas strengthening their roster for the next season. They bolstered their frontcourt recently. Tarvas have agreed on terms of contract with Maris Laksa (207-F-81, agency: Court Side, college: Providence). The Latvian forward comes from Kazakhstan. He played for Barsy Atyrau last season. Maris Laksa notched 9.3 points and 3.2 rebounds per D1 game. In Baltic League the forward delivered 14.0 points and 4.2 boards per appearance. Previously Maris Laksa had stints in Greece, Romania, Latvia, Cyprus, Poland and Slovenia. Maris Laksa was the member of Latvian National Team in 2000/03 seasons. The forward also played for U18 National Team.


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  BRAZIL   


Brazil topple Spain in Foz de Iguacu - by Eurobasket News

Brazil - Spain 101:68

Brazil advanced into the Final of Super 4 Cup of Foz de Iguacu tournament. They defeated Spain on the first day of the tourney to set up the clash versus Argentina. Spanish B National Team will face Chile next. Marcelo Magalhaes (199-F/G-75, agency: Interperformances) came up with 23 points to lead the winners.
Brazil erupted for 26 points in the first quarter to take an 8-point lead. The hosts maintained the lead posting a 49:36 halftime advantage. Brazil poured in 30 points in the third quarter to ensure a 34-point buffer heading into the fourth term. Brazil cruised to the victory from there on. Leandrinho Barbosa (190-PG-82) scored 15 points, while Marcelinho Huertas (191-PG-83, agency: Edge Sports) added 10 points for the winners. Joaquim Colom (188-PG-88, agency: Interperformances) answered with 17 points for Spain. David Doblas (206-C-81) provided 12 points in the losing case.

Brazil: Marcelo Magalhaes 23, Leandrinho Barbosa 15, Marcelinho Huertas 10
Spain B: Joaquim Colom 17, David Doblas 12


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  BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS   


Juniors edge into Mix with win over Hi Speed - by David Edole


ROAD TOWN, Tortola, VI --Junior Mega Mix clinched one of the last remaining Play Off berths in the BVI Basketball Federations Summer League with a 35-24 win over Hi Speed as the regular season closed out over the weekend of the July 7/8, 2012.

The path turned out to be fairly straight forward despite a close first half which saw the Mix up by just two, but then they turned on to control the second half to comfortably win by the 11-point margin. JMoi Liburd top scored with 12 points, Tyler Cameron picked up 12 rebounds and DMoi Hodge, 9 points for the Mix. For Hi Speed, Jachoy Walwyn scored 8 points and Deondre Smith, 6.

The Hawks then beat the Jnr. Pure Playaz 88-31 before Another Level secured an 87-60 victory over And One. Terrique Wattley scored 15 points and both Stefon Richardson and JKwon Frett, 13 each for Another Level.

On Saturday July 7, the ESHS Rams recorded their first win of the season and condemned the Playaz to ignominy of 8 straight losses in the 64-56 victory, led by Kevon Lettsomes 15 points and 11 rebounds.

The Jnr. Mystics beat Young Starz 94-82 in the conclusion to their season with Paul Bridgwater scoring 29 points. William Penn Jnr. added 23 and Shamarr Georges ended his nights work with 20 points and 29 rebounds. Jolyon Wilson led the Starz with 26 points and 11 rebounds.

The Pure Playaz consolidated their place in the top 6 of the senior league with a 102-90 against All Ah Wee with Deon Smith scoring 32 points, 11 rebounds, 7 steals and 4 assists. He received great support from Bodean Sammuels 26 points and 19 rebounds. Azim Beazer led the line for All Ah Wee with 26 points and 16 rebounds along with Dominic Ward who scored 20 points and picked up 10 rebounds.

Legs then laid down a marker for the Play Offs and perhaps the Championship with a resounding 124-111 win over Mega Mix to finish unbeaten atop the standings.

Jasin Edwin top scored with 34 points, 15 rebounds and 9 assists. Randy George added 24 points, Khalid Gerrard, 19 points and Kitwana Rhymer, 18 points and 10 rebounds for Legs who leapt into an early lead and kept it right through to the buzzer. Shamal Caines led the Mix with 33 points, Halstead Chiverton and Douron Phillip 18, whilst Kelvin Sammuel finished with 16.

The final game of group play took place on Sunday and featured the VG Heats beating the Bulls 50-36. Aldric Thomas finished with 15 points for the Heats who also recorded a perfect season with the win. Jamoi Dore notched 10 points with 5 rebounds and Thomas picked up 4. For the Bulls, who dropped down to second place, Tahj Malone scored 12 points with 8 rebounds and Halford Barzey 8 points.

In announcing the Play Off schedule BVI BF President, Byron Hodge said how pleased he was with the League so far and offered his congratulations to the successful teams as well as words of encouragement to those who didnt make it. First of all I would like to say congratulations to the teams that advanced to the playoffs. I would like you guys to continue the hard work and I would also like to encourage the teams that were not as successful to work harder for next year.

The Play Offs starts tonight Wednesday July 11 at the Multi Purpose Gym and with a tight schedule that may well see some teams playing back to back as the Federation is trying to complete as many games as possible ahead of the Miss BVI Pageant. Games would then resume on August 10 in hopes of completing the league by August 18.

Wednesday July 11
5:30 P.M ESHS Gold Rams vs. High Speed
6:45 P.M Jr. Mystics vs. Young Starz
8:00 P.M Kings vs. Pure Playaz

Friday July 13
6:00 P.M ESHS Gold Rams vs. High Speed
7:45 P.M Kings vs. Pure Playaz
9:30 P.M East vs All Ah We

Saturday July 14
3:30 P.M. Jr. Mega Mix vs. ESHS Blue Rams
5:00 P.M. Bulls vs Real Tool
6:30 P.M Another Level vs. Skulls
8:00 P.M Jr. Mystics vs. Young Starz
10:00 P.M East vs All Ah We

Sunday July 15
3:30 P.M Bulls vs Real Tool
5:00 P.M Jr. Mega Mix vs ESHS Blue Rams
6:30 P.M Another Level vs Skulls
**8:00 P.M Open for if necessary games depending on the Division, the game times could be shuffled.


BVI Basketball Federations Summer League Final Standings - by David Edole

Senior Division
LEGS8-0
MEGA MIX 7-1
ALL AH WEE5-3
KINGS 5-3
PURE PLAYAZ 4-4
EAST 3-5
LATINOS 2-6
REBELS 1-7
HLSCC STINGRAYS 1-7

JUNIOR DIVISION
HAWKS 7-1
YOUNG GUNNERS 6-1
ANOTHER LEVEL 6-2
JR. MYSTICS 5-3
YOUNG STARS 4-4
SKULLS 4-4
AND ONE 2-6
ESHS RAMS 1-7
JR. PURE PLAYERS 0-8

D-LEAGUE
VG HEATS 5-0
BULLS 4-1
ESHS GOLD 3-2
ESHS BLUE 1-2
JR. MEGAMIX1-3
HIGH SPEED1-3
MONEI0-2
REAL TOOL0-2


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  BULGARIA   


Bulgaria edged Greece in the friendly opener - by Eurobasket News

Greece U18-Bulgaria U18 53:61

Bulgaria U18 edged Greece U18 in the friendly opener. The guests grabbed 61:53 win in a 3-games campaign being held in Thessaloniki, Greece.
Greece started with 13-8 and did not slow down until the end of the half. The hosts led 29:23 at the halftime, while Bulgaria managed to erupt in the second half. Bulgaria grabbed 45:42 lead after three quarters and pushed the tempo for good in the last period.
Lepitsev and Deyan Karamfilov (179-PG-94) top-scored for the winners with 12 points each. Kris Minkov (197-F-94) and Voutev followed them with 10 points apiece. Dimitrios Agravanis (208-F-94, agency: FCM) ended up with 16 points in the losing effort and Diamantis Slaftsakis (202-PF-94) added 9. Alexandros Mitsialos (201-F-94) poured in 7 points and Eleftherios Bochoridis (194-G-94) had 6.

Greece U18: Dimitrios Agravanis 16, Diamantis Slaftsakis 9, Alexandros Mitsialos 7, Eleftherios Bochoridis 6
Bulgaria U18: Lepitsev 12, Deyan Karamfilov 12, Kris Minkov 10, Voutev 10


Greece U18 bounced back over Bulgarian players - by Eurobasket News

Greece U18-Bulgaria U18 83:66

Greece U18 bounced back over Bulgarian players in the second friendly game between two sides. The hosts overcame Bulgaria U18 83:66.
Greece started the game with 18-15 and continued their narrow lead at the end of the half. They added 21-19 in the second frame and grabbed 39:34 at the halftime. Bulgarian players looked better in the third quarter and produced a 18-16 burst to reduce to 55:52 with 10 minutes to go. Greece however erupted with 28-14 in the last stanza to seal the victory.
Mitsialis top-scored for the winner with 18 points and Bochoridis nailed 14. Gondicas delivered 11, while Karamolegos scored 10. Grozev ended up with 16 points in the losing effort and Nikolay Stoyanov posted 13. Vutev netted 12 and Velislav Galabov followed them with 8.

Greece U18: Mitsialis 18, Bochoridis 14, Gondicas 11, Karamolegos 10
Bulgaria U18: Grozev 16, Nikolay Stoyanov 13, Vutev 12, Velislav Galabov 8


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  CANADA   


Raptors officially acquire point guard Kyle Lowry from Rockets - by Eurobasket News

Kyle Lowry (6'0''-PG-86, college: Villanova) is officially a Toronto Raptor.

The Raptors finalized a trade for the former Houston point guard Wednesday. The Rockets will receive forward Gary Forbes and a protected future first-round draft choice in return.

The deal was first reported last week, shortly after the Raptors missed out on signing Victoria's Steve Nash. The Canadian star went to the Los Angeles Lakers instead.

The 26-year-old Lowry averaged career bests of 14.3 points, 4.5 rebounds and 1.6 steals during the 2011-12 season. He also contributed team highs of 6.6 assists and 32.1 minutes in 47 games, 38 of them starts.

As a starter, he increased his averages to 15.9 points, 5.3 rebounds, 7.2 assists, 1.8 steals and 35.5 minutes.

The six-year NBA veteran has averaged 10.4 points, 3.5 rebounds, 4.8 assists, 1.14 steals and 26.9 minutes in 359 career games. He has appeared in 13 post-season games, averaging 5.3 points, 2.9 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 19.5 minutes.

The six-foot, 205-pound Philadelphia native was a first-round draft choice (24th overall) by Memphis in 2006. He was dealt to the Rockets on February 19, 2009.

Lowry played two collegiate seasons at Villanova University before declaring for the NBA Draft.

Forbes averaged 6.6 points, 2.1 rebounds and 14.9 minutes in 48 games last season with the Raptors.

The Rockets have been collecting draft picks for a potential package to entice Orlando to send All-Star centre Dwight Howard their way.

Houston is expected to sign Bulls centre Omer Asik and Knicks guard Jeremy Lin to offer sheets. Chicago and New York will have three days to match the Rockets' offers.

Lin catapulted to stardom in New York during a dazzling stretch in February where he scored at least 20 points in nine of 10 games. The Knicks are expected to match Houston's offer and retain Lin, who was undrafted out of Harvard.

Courtesy of www.cbc.ca


Toronto Raptors sign rookie Terrence Ross - by Eurobasket News

The Toronto Raptors announced Tuesday they have signed guard Terrence Ross (6'6''-G-91, college: Washington) from the University of Washington to his rookie scale contract. He is under contract through the 2013-14 season, with two team option years to follow. The Raptors selected Ross with the eighth overall pick of the 2012 NBA Draft.

All players selected in the first round of the NBA Draft are guaranteed to receive a contract. So, this signing is standard.

Ross, 6-foot-7, 197 pounds, was a first-team All-Pac-12 selection last season as a sophomore. He averaged 16.4 points and 6.4 rebounds, and ranked among Pac-12 leaders in eight categories including: points (4th), rebounds (6th), three-pointers per game (2.1, 8th) and blocks (0.9, 13th). Ross averaged 25.0 points in four games during Washingtons run to the NIT semifinals. He shot a perfect 15-of-15 from the free throw line and led UW shooters from three point range, making 15-of-37 attempts (.405). He posted a career-high 32 points with eight rebounds versus Northwestern in the NIT.

As a freshman, Ross made his first career starts in the Pac-10 Tournament, averaging 15.3 points and 2.7 rebounds, and shooting 52.8 percent from the field to earn a spot on the five-man All-Pac-10 Tournament team. He tallied a team-high 19 points versus North Carolina in the NCAA Tournament.

The Raptors open their five-game NBA Summer League schedule on the campus of the University of Nevada-Las Vegas on Friday against the Houston Rockets.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com


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  CHILE   


Argentina beat Chile in Foz de Iguazu - by Eurobasket News

Argentina - Chile 96:62

Argentina claimed the first win in the Super 4 Cup in Foz de Iguazu tournament. They defeated Chile to enter the Final. Paolo Quinteros (185-PG-79) scored 18 points to lead the winners.
Argentina and Chile stayed close throughout the opening frame. Argentina clinched a 16:15 lead ten minutes into the encounter. They stretched the lead in the second quarter. Argentina unloaded 29 points in the period to gain a 16-point lead. Argentina dropped 28 points in the third term as the margin grew at 24-point mark. Argentina did not slow down rallying to a comfortable win at the end. Juan Gutierrez (205-F/C-83) accounted for 16 points, while Hernan Jasen (199-G-78) added 14 points for the winners. Evandro Arteaga (178-G-83) answered with 17 points for Chile. Sebastian Suarez (189-F-91) and Cristobal Infante (201-C-88) scored 8 points each in the loss.

Argentina: Paolo Quinteros 18, Juan Gutierrez 16, Hernan Jasen 14
Chile: Evandro Arteaga 17, Sebastian Suarez 8, Cristobal Infante 8


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  CYPRUS   


Malcolm Grant for Apoel - by Dr. Nasios Orinos

Apoel announces signing of American Malcolm Grant (185-G-88, agency: Interperformances).

Grant is 1.85 cm tall and plays the guard position. He is distinguished for his quickness, good defense and shooting ability.

Grant has been playing in Miami, Florida since 2008 where he averaged a double-digit.

Along with Troupe, Mokongo, Stiggers and Kremen are expected to form a strong front line for Apoel.

Career:
Brooklyn, NY
2007-2008: Villanova (NCAA): 29 games: 5.6ppg, 1.4apg, FGP: 39.0%, 3Pts: 46.6%, FT: 84.1% :8rrg
2008-2009: Miami, FL (NCAA): DNP
2009-2010: Miami, FL (NCAA, starting five): 33 games: 9.6ppg, 1.9rpg, 3.5apg, FGP: 39.3%, 3PT: 41.2%, FT: 75.6%
2010-2011: Miami, FL (NCAA, starting five): 36 games: 14.8ppg, 1.8rpg, 3.2apg, FGP: 41.8%, 3PT: 42.3%, FT: 85.3%
2011-2012: Miami, FL (NCAA, starting five): 29 games: 11.3ppg, 2.2rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 35.6%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 80.3%


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  D-LEAGUE   


2012 NBA D-League Select Team announced - by Eurobasket News

The NBA Development League announced the roster for the NBA D-League Select team, which will compete in the 2012 NBA Summer League in Las Vegas. The team, comprised of 11 top NBA D-League prospects, will play a five-game schedule beginning on Sunday, July 15, at the COX Pavilion and Thomas and Mack Center on the campus of the University of Nevada - Las Vegas.

"Coming off an NBA D-League season where an all-time high 40 top prospects earned GATORADE Call-Ups to the NBA, we're excited to bring another talented team of NBA D-League players to the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas," said Chris Alpert, Vice President of Basketball Operations and Player Personnel for the NBA D-League. "NBA Summer League is basketball's biggest summer stage and represents another fantastic opportunity for our players to showcase their skills against the NBA's best young talent."

The 2012 Select team includes players from seven NBA D-League franchises and features four players with NBA experience, including Andre Emmett (Reno Bighorns). Emmett, who played in 35 regular season games, averaged 23.1 points, 5.5 rebounds, 3.2 assists and 36.7 minutes while earning a GATORADE Call-Up to the New Jersey Nets. While with the Nets, Emmett, a 2004 NBA Draft selection, appeared in six games and scored 13 points over 44 minutes.

A 2006 NBA Draft selection, Mardy Collins (L.A. D-Fenders), joins the Select Team following a standout season in Los Angeles. During the season, Collins averaged 10.0 points, 4.9 assists and 3.3 rebounds in 28 games, helping to lead the D-Fenders to a 38-12 regular season record, the best in NBA D-League history. In the 2012 postseason, Collins averaged 17.4 points, 4.7 assists and 3.3 rebounds in seven contests, including three NBA D-League Finals games.

Renaldo Major, Juan Pattillo and Jeremy Wise, Bakersfield Jam teammates during the 2011-12 season, reunite on the Select Team having helped the Jam advance to the NBA D-League postseason in April. Major, a five-year NBA D-League veteran and former GATORADE Call-Up to the NBA, averaged 15.2 points, 4.7 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 31.8 minutes in 46 games for the Jam last season. Pattillo averaged 14.5 points and 7.2 rebounds in 49 games, while Wise averaged 13.9 points and an NBA D-League high 6.3 assists in 41 games, 39 as a starter.

Kenny Hayes comes to the Select Team following his best year in the NBA D-League, when he averaged 17.1 points, 5.2 assists, 4.1 rebounds and 33.1 minutes for the Maine Red Claws. For his efforts last season, in which he scored 10 more points per game than he did during the 2010-11 season, Hayes was named 2012 NBA D-League Most Improved Player.

The remaining roster includes Marcus Cousin, who averaged 14.7 points and 8.6 rebounds in 38 games for the Austin Toros during the 2010-11 season; Chris Daniels, who averaged 16.2 points and 9.2 rebounds in 35 games for the Erie BayHawks; Marcus Dove, who averaged 14.2 points and 6.6 rebounds for the Dakota Wizards; Chris Johnson, who averaged 16.2 points and 9.2 rebounds for the Wizards during the 2010-11 campaign; and Leo Lyons, who averaged 13.9 points and 7.7 rebounds for the Toros and Wizards.

Eric Musselman, the 2012 NBA D-League Coach of the Year, who led his L.A. D-Fenders to the NBA D-League Finals during the 2011-12 season, his first with the team, was named head coach of the Select Team in June. Joining him on the bench in Las Vegas are his D-Fenders assistants, Connor Henry and Phil Hubbard. Michael Douglas of the Dakota Wizards will serve as the team's athletic trainer.

NBA TV will offer live coverage of 56 NBA Summer League games and fans can watch the action from Las Vegas via NBA Summer League Broadband on NBA.com and NBA Mobile. NBA Summer League Broadband is a subsciption service offering fans a full slate of live and archived Summer League games for $14.99 via NBA.com and iTunes. All of the NBA D-League Select team's games will be shown live on NBA Summer League Broadband and on tape delay on NBA TV.

The 2012 NBA Summer League is comprised of an all-time high 23 NBA teams and the NBA D-League Select squad, and features rookies, second-year players and select free agents.


2012 NBA D-League Select Team Roster
PLAYER POS HT WT BORN COLLEGE NBA D-LEAGUE NBA EXP.
Mardy Collins (6'6''-G-84, agency: Arete Sports Agency, college: Temple) G 6-6 220 8/4/84 Temple L.A. D-Fenders 5
Marcus Cousin (6'11''-C-86, college: Houston) C 6-11 255 12/18/86 Houston Austin Toros 1
Daniels Chris (6'11''-C-84) C 7-0 265 4/19/84 Texas A&M -Corpus Christi Erie BayHawks R
Marcus Dove (6'9''-F-85, college: Oklahoma St.) F 6-9 225 6/17/85 Oklahoma St. Dakota Wizards R
Andre Emmett (6'5''-G/F-82, college: Texas Tech) F 6-5 224 8/27/82 Texas Tech Reno Bighorns 2
Kenny Hayes (6'2''-PG-87, agency: Priority Sports, college: Miami, OH) G 6-2 175 4/16/87 Miami (Ohio) Maine Red Claws R
Chris Johnson (6'11''-C-85, college: LSU) C 6-11 210 7/15/85 Louisiana St. Dakota Wizards 2
Leo Lyons F 6-9 240 5/6/87 Missouri Dakota Wizards R
Renaldo Major (6'7''-F-82, agency: Edge Sports, college: Fresno St.) F 6-6 210 5/7/82 Fresno St. Bakersfield Jam 1
Juan Pattillo (6'6''-F-88, college: W.Kentucky) F 6-6 225 3/12/88 W. Kentucky Bakersfield Jam R
Jeremy Wise (6'3''-G-86, agency: Strategic Sports, college: S.Mississippi) G 6-2 185 3/13/86 S. Mississippi Bakersfield Jam R

Head Coach: Eric Musselman (L.A. D-Fenders)
Assistant Coaches: Connor Henry (L.A. D-Fenders), Phil Hubbard (L.A. D-Fenders)
Athletic Trainer: Michael Douglas (Dakota Wizards)

NBA D-League Select Schedule
All times ET
DATE OPPONENT TIME LOCATION
July 15 Washington 10pm COX Pavilion
July 16 Cleveland 8pm COX Pavilion
July 19 Milwaukee 10pm COX Pavilion
July 20 Phoenix 10pm COX Pavilion
July 21 Minnesota 8pm COX Pavilion

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com


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  DOMINICAN REPUBLIC   


John Calipari future with D.R. in air - by Basket Dominicano

Kentucky coach John Calipari was a game away from coaching a rare double in the same year -- an NCAA championship and Olympic game in a calendar year.

But Nigeria's American contingent led by Ike Diogu's 25 points were too strong in an 88-73 victory over Calipari's Dominican Republic squad Sunday night in Caracas, Venezuela at the Olympic qualifying tournament. The Nigerians, not the Dominicans, will make their first-ever Olympic appearance in two weeks in London.

Less than 24 hours later, Calipari was back in Lexington working out his reshaped Kentucky team.

He'll do that again Wednesday, before coaching the Dominicans one more time, against the United States Olympic team Thursday night in Las Vegas in an exhibition.

Calipari
"We didn't get where we wanted to, but I'm hoping that we've turned a generation of athletes on to basketball," said Calipari. "It has been a baseball nation. We were able to help the federation and the country."

Calipari made a two-year commitment to the Dominican team, which was led by NBA players Alfred Horford (208-F/C-86, college: Florida) and Francisco Garcia (201-F/G-81, college: Louisville). He said he will meet with the Dominican National Federation in Las Vegas later this week to discuss the future. He said he is non-committal about his involvement going forward.

But Calipari said he is hopeful that his Kentucky assistant Orlando Antigua, who was on the staff along with Rod Strickland and longtime NBA head and assistant coach Del Harris, would be considered for the head coaching position. Calipari said Antigua would be "a great choice."

"I'm not ready to say what I'm going to do," Calipari said. "It has been fun but it takes a lot of time. I worked my team out as soon as I got off the plane and I'll work them out again Wednesday before I fly to Vegas, come back and work them out Monday and Tuesday to work them out again. I ended up having two jobs. If we would have qualified for London that would have been, well, think about that. It would have been tough to get recruiting done."

Calipari said the only way it worked for him to be head coach of the Dominicans was to move training camp to Lexington the past two years.

"I wouldn't have done it if we hadn't trained here for two years," Calipari said. "That's time away. We were training here and I was able to do two jobs. We had our camp, I coached their team and coached my team. It was a tough four weeks."

By: Andy Katz - ESPN.com



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  ESTONIA   


Tarvas sign Maris Laksa - by Eurobasket News

Rakvere Tarvas strengthening their roster for the next season. They bolstered their frontcourt recently. Tarvas have agreed on terms of contract with Maris Laksa (207-F-81, agency: Court Side, college: Providence). The Latvian forward comes from Kazakhstan. He played for Barsy Atyrau last season. Maris Laksa notched 9.3 points and 3.2 rebounds per D1 game. In Baltic League the forward delivered 14.0 points and 4.2 boards per appearance. Previously Maris Laksa had stints in Greece, Romania, Latvia, Cyprus, Poland and Slovenia. Maris Laksa was the member of Latvian National Team in 2000/03 seasons. The forward also played for U18 National Team.


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  EUROBASKET SUMMER LEAGUE   


UNLV Campus Housing for Vegas ESL closes registration for players at 3pm pacific time today! - by ESL News

All players who are registered for Vegas ESL, July 16-18th need to pay for and register for their rooms by 3 pm today, pacific time. Also, all players who are currently registered and have not paid, need to do so by the end of the day this Friday or they will not be able to pay for the ESL. All registration is currently closed and no more players will be accepted as of this date, however, players who are registered already will be given till this Friday to pay. Remember, to register for rooms today by 3 pm pacific time today.


ESL thanks PMS Basketball Club and Torino, Italy and here are the top five performers! - by ESL News

Torino, Italy ESL was a success and we know that PMS Torino and Torino, Italy is going to be the home of all future Europe ESL events. We could not have asked for a better host than Julio Trovato , the general Manager of PMS Torino and Federico Paci our long standing Italian agent partner, who resides in Torino. PMS is a first class organization, with first class facilities, no question about it. Also, with the amount of coaches, scouts and gms who showed up from Italian pro teams was incredible. For those players who missed this event they surely missed a golden opportunity to get there foot in the door of playing in Italy, which is one of the hardest countries to get into for import players. We chose a top 5 performers list because this ESL is a little different than the past ESLs as we had the elements of weather to deal with and some players arriving late from traveling difficulties. Therefore, we had two sessions a day with morning sessions being intense workouts with Coach Daniel Jusup . The morning sessions would be similar to what an NBA team would put their guys through or even free agents who come into workout for them. This is why ESL clearly separates itself from other camps or leagues, because they do not have any individual instruction groups or fundamental drills before guys play like we do. Usually, these camps just divide teams and play up and down without scouts, coaches or gms seeing what the fundamentals or learning styles of the players are like. Our games are always very organized and precise with pro set offenses run. Here in Torino, Italy we played 3 games and 3 workout sessions, which worked out perfectly. Players here had a chance to be coached one on one by legendary coach Daniel Jusup and have pro teams watch them are incredibly lucky. Coach Jusup is one of the best at the teaching the game to players which is second to none.

Top 5 performers, Torino, Italy
Corey Shontz (185-PG-89, college: John Carroll), Bulut Altin (187-PG-93), Davide Curletti (205-F-90), Ruben Silva (192-F) and Matija Poscic (205-C-85, college: De Paul)

Corey Shontz is a very solid point guard who is quietly athletic. He is quick, jumps well and can get to the rim. He has great range and is an extremely good person. There is no question he will be an asset to any team and because of this ESL in Italy, he is waiting for a call about several workouts with pro teams in Europe.

Bulut Altin is a pure point guard with a European flair about him. He can handle the ball tremendously and has great court vision. He has a very good pull up jumper and can score when he needs to. Very talented young prospect who we see as being a very high level player with a couple more years of experience.

Davide Curletti is a finesse type player who can play the power forward and small forward positions. Davide is very mobile player who battles around the basket and has a very nice shooting touch. Runs the floor extremely well and is a very intelligent player. Davide will be receiving his Italian citizenship and will be an asset to any Italian team he plays for.

Ruben Silva is a strong 2-3, who probably is more of a 2 than 3. Ruben can guard anyone from the 1 to the 3 and is a very intelligent player. Ruben is an extremely good shooter who has tremendous range from 3 point land. Look for Ruben to play at a high level one day as he is still young and would benefit by going to a nice mid-level program where he can gain some solid experience. However, dont be is surprised if he reaches a high level sooner rather than later.

Matija Poscic a very strong player with an NBA body. He runs the floor extremely well and has a very nice jump shot. Very quick and athletic, he can guard a big 3, 4 and 5 with no problem. He will create major match up problems for teams who use him the right way. He can stretch the floor or post you up. He is a relentless rebounder who will battle you inside. Nice moves around the basket with nice jump hooks from either hand. Matija will make any team at any level happy they took him.


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  EUROCUP   


Hapoel Jerusalem return Meir Tapiro - by Eurobasket News

Meir Tapiro (192-PG-75, agency: Avi Zilberman) comes back to Jerusalem. The guard signed contract with Hapoel Jerusalem. Meir Tapiro played for the team back in 2000/03 and 2005/07 seasons. Last season the guard spent with Maccabi Ashdod. Meir Tapiro notched 9.6 points, 7.2 assists, 4.9 rebounds and 1.5 steals per game in Premier League. He participated at Premier League All-Star Game. Meir Tapiro also had stints with Hapoel Tel-Aviv, Maccabi Haifa, Nancy, Bnei Hasharon and Maccabi Rishon Le-Zion during his career. Eurobasket.com named Meir Tapiro All-Israeli League Guard of the Year back in 2004. He was also trumped Domestic Player of the Year in 2007 and 2008. The guard was the member of Israeli National Team in 1998/2008 seasons.


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  EUROLEAGUE   


Olympiacos extends Giorgos Printezis - by Diamadis Farmakis

He made the most important basket in Olympiacos history and he will remain with his hometown club, as the Reds have signed versatile forward Georgios Printezis (206-F-85, agency: FCM) to a new deal through the end of the 2014-15 season.

Printezis (2.02 meters, 27 years old) led Olympiacos to the Turkish Airlines Euroleague title in May by hitting the game-winning shot with just 0.7 left in the final against CSKA, which the Reds won 61-62 in epic fashion. Printeziss baseline floater capped a 19-point comeback and gave Olympiacos its second Euroleague crown.

For the season he averaged 10.6 points on 60.2% two-point shooting and 86.4% free throws to go with 4.1 rebounds in 21 Euroleague games. Printezis also helped Olympiacos win the Greek League title last season. Printezis grew up with Asteras Agiou Dimirtriou and was signed by Olympiacos in 2000.

He played there for six seasons interrupted only by a season on loan to Olympia Larissa before going abroad to play for Unicaja in Spain. However after a season and a half, Printezis returned home and rejoined Olympiacos in March 2011. Printezis is also a regular for the Greek national team and helped it win the bronze medal at EuroBasket 2009.


Fenerbahce Ulker signs 2-year deal with Romain Sato - by Eurobasket News

Romain Sato (194-G/F-81, college: Xavier) will continue his career in Turkey. The player signed a 2-year deal with former TBL champions Fenerbahce Ulker. Sato arrives to the club from Panathinaikos Athens, where he spent last two seasons. In the latest one he had 7.1 ppg and 4.7 rpg for 23 Euroleague games. The player also added 5.7 ppg and 3.8 rpg for 34 games in Greece. Sato helped PAO to win Greek Cup last season, but they failed to defend Greek league and Euroleague titles. They managed to take both trophies a year ago. Before PAO, Romain Sato spent four years with Montepaschi Siena. They won four Italian league titles together and two Cups. In the past, Sato also played for Italian Jesi. He is a product of Xavier University.
Romain Sato played for Central African National Team at 2009 AfroBasket in Libya. He shined with 21.6 ppg and 8.6 rpg for 7 games at this event.


Panathinaikos grabs 'Liga Endesa Player of the Year' Andy Panko - by Eurobasket News

Andy Panko (204-F-77, agency: Beo Basket, college: Lebanon Valley) is a new member of Panathinaikos Athens. The 'Liga Endesa Player of the Year' signed a deal today with former Euroleague and Greek champions. Panko arrives to PAO from Lagun Aro GBC, where he exploded last season with 18.6 ppg, 5.2 rpg and 1.3 apg for 36 games. Panko was MVP and top scorer of the championship. The player picked up many awards:

Eurobasket.com All-Spanish ACB Player of the Year -12
Eurobasket.com All-Spanish ACB Import Player of the Year -12
Eurobasket.com All-Spanish ACB 1st Team -12
Eurobasket.com Spanish ACB All-Imports Team -12

Lagun Aro GBC was No.5 of the regular season and they reached Playoff Quarterfinals. Andy Panko played for the club also in 2009/10 and 2010/11. Before that he spent two years with Bruesa. Panko is not a new face in Greece as he already spent some time with PAOK in 2006/07. He finished that season with Bilbao, where he also played in 2005/06. Earlier this month PAO hired Argiris Pedoulakis as new Head Coach and landed Sofoklis Schortsanitis and Michael Bramos.


Unics Kazan signs 2-year deal with Kostas Kaimakoglou - by Eurobasket News

As expected, Unics Kazan of Russia, a wild card recipient for the Turkish Airlines Euroleague Qualifying Rounds, has added one of the most versatile players in the competition, combo forward Kostas Kaimakoglou (206-C/F-83), with a two-year deal, the club announced today. Kaimakoglou spent last two seasons with Panathinaikos Athens. In the latest one the player averaged 7.8 points and 4.2 rebounds in 34 Greek league games. He also added 7.9 ppg and 4.1 rpg for 23 Euroleague games. PAO won the Cup last season, but failed to defend Euroleague and Greek league titles. In 2011, Kaimakoglou helped PAO to win these two trophies. He had 7 ppg and 4 rpg in Greece, plus 3.6 ppg and 2.7 rpg in Euroleague. Before PAO, Kostas Kaimakoglou spent six years with Marousi. In the past, he also played for Near East. Kaimakoglou averaged 3.3 points and 1.9 rebounds for 10 games at 2011 EuroBasket in Lithuania. Earlier this summer, Unics signed a deal with Marko Banic (205-F-84). They also returned Pavel Sergeev (186-PG-87, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav) and added Victor Zvarykin (198-G-86). In the first round of Euroleague qualifications Unics will meet German Ratiopharm Ulm.


Milano signs PG Rok Stipcevic - by Eurobasket News

EA7 Emporio Armani Milano announced signing of Croatian point guard Rok Stipcevic (185-PG-86). The player parted ways with Cimberio Varese. He played 36 games for them last season averaging 11.4 points, 3.3 assists and 2.6 rebounds. Stipcevic joined Varese in February of 2011 collecting 9.3 ppg, 3.2 apg and 2.5 rpg for rest of the 2011/12 season. He started it with Cibona VIP Zagreb posting 10.3 ppg, 4.1 apg and 2.8 rpg for 9 Euroleague games. The point guard had almost the same numbers in Croatian league. In the past, Stipcevic spent couple of years with Zadar.
Rok Stipcevic is active member of the Croatian National Team. The player had 1.2 ppg for 5 games at the 2011 EuroBasket in Lithuania. He also played for his country at the 2010 World Championship in Turkey.


Unicaja lands Sergi Vidal from Lagun Aro GBC - by Eurobasket News

Sergi Vidal (198-F/G-81) is a new member of Unicaja Malaga. The former Spanish NT player signed a 2-year deal with the club. He arrives to Unicaja from Lagun Aro GBC, where he spent last season. For 36 games in Liga Endesa Vidal averaged 11.6 points, 5.1 rebounds and 2.3 assists. He was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Spanish ACB Honorable Mention -12. Lagun Aro GBC was No.5 in the regular season and reached Playoff Quarterfinals. Sergi Vidal played for Real Madrid from 2009 to 2011. Before that he spent 9 years with Tau Ceramica. They won two ACB titles together. In the past, Vidal also played for Joventut Badalona. In 2005, he played for Spanish NT at the EuroBasket in Belgrade.


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  FRANCE   


Etienne Plateau heads to Quimper - by Eurobasket News

Etienne Plateau (192-PG-86) heads to Quimper for 2012/2013 season. The French Point Guard leaves Chalons-Reims.
In 2000-2001 he appeared for Caen (N2), and then moved to INSEP Centre Federal. After three seasons there he averaged 9.9ppg, 1.8rpg, 2.5apg in the last one. In 2004-2005 appeared for J.D.A. Dijon (ProA) and in FIBA Europe League had 1.0ppg, 6reb, 7ast, while in French ProA League showed 1.3ppg.
In 2006-2007 headed to FC Mulhouse Basket (ProB) and averaged 7.6ppg, 2.9rpg, 3.4apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 40.7%, 3PT: 37.0%, FT: 81.7%. In 2007-2008 moved to JSF Nanterre (ProB) where his stats read 6.1ppg, 1.3rpg, 1.7apg, 2FGP: 37.8%, 3PT: 36.6%, FT: 72.5%.
In 2008-2009 for JSF Nanterre (ProB, starting five) he showed 4.0ppg, 1.3rpg and in 2009-2010 appeared for SO Maritime Boulogne (NM1, starting five). In 34 games he had 14.0ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.3bpg, 2FGP: 46.8%, 3PT: 40.2%, FT: 77.0%.
The season 2010-2011 started for SO Maritime Boulogne (ProB) and showed 8.1ppg, 2.6rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 51.8%, 3PT: 27.3%, FT: 75.9%. The last season played for Chalons-Reims (ProB) and averaged 5.7ppg, 2.4rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 34.8%, 3PT: 34.6%, FT: 73.5%.


Orleans brings in PG Antoine Eito - by Eurobasket News

Orleans announced signing of point guard Antoine Eito (186-PG-88). The 24-year-old player arrives to the club from Le Mans, where he finished last season. He joined them in March and averaged 4.1 ppg for 7 games in ProA. Eito started the season with ProB team Vichy. There he had 10.6 ppg, 4.4 apg, 3.9 rpg and 1.9 spg in 34 games. He was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-French ProB Honorable Mention -12.
Antoine Eito played for Vichy also in 2009/10 and 2010/11. Before that he spent three years with ASVEL. They won French Cup together in 2008 and ProA title in 2009, but Eito had very limited playing time. In the past, the point guard played for U20 French National team.


Denver Nuggets sign first-round draft pick Evan Fournier - by Eurobasket News

The Denver Nuggets have signed first-round draft pick Evan Fournier (6'7''-SG-92) to a multiyear contract, team Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations Masai Ujiri announced today.

Fournier, 6-7, 205, was selected by the Nuggets 20th overall in the 2012 NBA Draft after playing two seasons for Poitiers of Frances Pro A League.

The 19-year-old native of France averaged 14.1 points, 2.3 assists, and 1.5 steals in 29 games for Poitiers in 2011-12.

In his first year with the team, he became the youngest player in French League history to score more than 20 points when he scored 21 against SLUC Nancy on Feb. 5, 2011.

Fournier also competed for Frances under-20 national team at the 2011 U20 European Championship, averaging 16.9 points and 3.3 assists.

Fournier will join the Nuggets at the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas. Denver opens its five-game schedule Saturday against the Golden State Warriors.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com


Nantes signs Lamarshall Corbett for 2012/13 - by Eurobasket News

LaMarshall Corbett (190-G-88, college: Angelo St.) will continue his career in France. The American guard penned a one-year deal with Hermine Nantes Atlantique. They will compete in ProB.
LaMarshall Corbett spent last season with the Polish squad Siarka Jezioro Tarnobrzeg. He shined with 16.1 ppg, 2.5 rpg and 2.5 apg in 24 PLK games. Corbett was second scorer of the competition and was named to Eurobasket.com Polish League All-Imports Team -12. The player was also awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Polish League Honorable Mention -12. It was his first season as a pro. LaMarshall Corbett graduated at Angelo State University (NCAA2) a year ago. In 2010, he was named All-LSC Player of the Year -10.


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  GEORGIA   


Viktor Sanikidze heads to Montepaschi Siena - by Eurobasket News

Viktor Sanikidze (203-F-86) heads to Montepaschi Siena for the next two seasons. According to Ufficio Stampa Mens Sana Siena, the Georgian player signed a 2+1 contract.
Viktor Sanikidze spent the last three season for Canadian Solar Bologna (Italy-SerieA, starting five). Last year in 33 games he averaged 11.7ppg, Reb-1 (11.0rpg), 1.4apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 57.0%, 3PT: 30.5%, FT: 63.7%.
Georgian forward Viktor Sanikidze became the top player in Round 19. The 25-year old player had a double-double of 16 points and 12 rebounds, while his team crushed Sidigas AV with 20-point margin 76-56. Sanikidze has many years of experience at CS Bologna, through which he has constantly improved.
Viktor Sanikidze became also the top player in round 16.
Earlier he played for MMT Estudiantes Madrid, Tartu Ulikool/Rock, SAOS J.D.A. Dijon Bourgogne and J.D.A. Dijon. In 2004 he was drafted by Atlanta Hawks (NBA,2rd (42)), and then traded to San Antonio Spurs (NBA).


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  GERMANY   


Dragan Dojcin Remains With TBB Trier - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

TBB Trier have lost a number of important players including german national player Philipp Zwiener and Dru Joyce, but the team was able to keep an important part of team with captain Dragan Dojcin (205-F-76). Dojcin is a 36 year old 204cm forward that will be playing his third season in the Mosel city. Last season, he played 32 games: 5.8ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 49.4%, 3PT: 34.3%, FT: 73.0%. He scored in double figures 5 times including 21 points against Bremerhaven. "Dragan stands for continuity, experience and the philosophy of our program. We develop young players and place role models on their sides from whom they can learn from. Dragan fills this professional role like no second and it will be like that again in his third year. That is an important position and I am happy that he is on board again", stressed TBB Trier head coach Henrik Rodl.

Source: TBB Trier


Oskar Fassler Joins The LTi Giessen 46ers - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

The LTi Giessen 46ers announced today the arrival of Oskar Fassler (198-G-88) Fassler is a 24 year old 198cm guard that played for TBB Trier the last two years. Last season, he played 31 games: 2.6ppg, 1.8rpg. His playing time was reduced last season after playing 25 games and having more minutes in the 2010-2011 season averaging5.8ppg, 2.3rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 33.3%, 3PT: 41.9%, FT: 59.1%. Fassler played a total of 56 Beko BBL games for TBB Trier"We have another young player with Oskar that has BUndesliga experience. He will have responsobility on the position two and three. We want to give him the chance to make it with us. He will make the next steps with us. We want to help him find the game he had in his first season in Trier and that he will be consistent", stressed LTi Giessen 46ers head coach Mathias Fischer.

Fassler started his basketball career in 2003-2004 with Marzhan Basket Baehren. He then played for TUS Lichterfelde from 2004-2006. He then played for Alba Berlin from 2006-2010 playing a total of 22 Beko BBL games for Alba Berlin. In the middle of the 2009-2010 season, he moved to Science City Jena (ProA, starting five): 12 games: 9.3ppg, 2.8rpg, 2.2apg, FGP: 54.9%, 3PT: 27.5%, FT: 77.8%, also played at Mitteldeutscher BC Weissenfels (1.Bundesliga): 4 games: 4.3ppg, 2.0rpg. Awards/Achievements in his basketball season have been German U18 National Team -04-06, European Championships for Cadets in Greece -04, European Championships U18 in Belgrade -05: 8 games: 6.5ppg, 1.6rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 41.4%, 3FGP: 50%, FT: 58.3%, International Tournament in Mannheim (Unofficial World Championships U18) -06: 6 games: 3.3ppg, 1.3rpgGerman U20 National Team -07-08, Eurobasket.com German 2.Bundesliga North All-Newcomers Team -07, European Championships U20 Division B in Warsaw (Poland) -07 (Semifinals): 8 games: 5.6ppg, 1.6rpg, 2FGP: 33.3%, 3FGP: 41.2%, FT: 78.3%, European Championships U20 Division B in Targu Mures (Romania) -08: (Champion): 7 games: 3.1ppg, 2.0rpg, 1.4apg, German University National Team -09, 11, World University Games in Belgrade (Serbia) -09: 3 games: 1.3ppg, 1.7rpg, and German Bundesliga Regular Season Runner-Up -10.

Source: LTI Giessen 46ers



Lawrence Roberts Moves To FC Bayern Munich - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

According to sportando.net, FC Bayern Munich have picked up Lawrence Roberts (206-F/C-82, college: Mississippi St.). Roberts is a 29 year old 206cm power forward from Houston, Texas that will be starting his 8th professional basketball season.Roberts is a born leader and an excellent team player that is always looking to do what's best for the team. Great contributor on the boards. Averaged a double-double in his sophomore year at Baylor and his junior year at MSU. Possesses a good jump shot and solid post up moves. Hard worker that is constantly looking to improve his game. Last season, he played for Lietuvos Rytas Vilnius (Lithuania-LKL, starting five): Lithuanian League: 25 games: 6.5ppg, 5.2rpg, 1.1apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 55.9%, 3PT: 21.6%, FT: 58.6%; VTB League: 21 games: 8.4ppg, 5.3rpg, 1.3apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 55.4%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 52.7%; Euroleague Qualifying Round: 3 games: 5.0ppg, 7.0rpg, 1.0apg; EuroCup: 16 games: 7.0ppg, Reb-4 (6.4rpg), 1.1spg, FGP: 40.5%, 3PT: 44.8%, FT: 59.1%; Baltic League: 3 games: 7.3ppg, 5.3rpg, 1.0apg, 1.0bpg Roberts started his basketball career at Baylor in 2001 where he played until 2003. He then transfered to Mississippi St. (NCAA) where he played until 2005. He was drafted by Seattle Supersonics (NBA,2rd (55). As a rookie in 2005, he played for the : Memphis Grizzlies (NBA), in Feb.'06 assigned to Arkansas RimRockers (D-League): 10 games: 19.8ppg, 10.2rpg, 1.5spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 51.9%, FT: 65.5%, shortly re-called to Memphis Grizzlies (NBA): Regular Season: 33 games: 1.5ppg, 1.5rpg, FGP: 45.5%, FT: 47.8%; DNP in the Play-Offs. in 2006-2007, he continued to play for the Memphis Grizzlies (NBA): 54 games: 5.2ppg, 4.8rpg, FGP: 45.2%, FT: 72.5%. In 007-2008, he played for Olympiacos S.F.P. Pireus (Greece). In 2008-2009, he played for KK Crvena Zvezda Beograd (Serbia-A League, starting five): 8 games: 6.4ppg, 4.3rpg, 1.4spg; Adriatic League: 23 games: 9.0ppg, 5.9rpg, 1.6spg, FGP: 43.1%, 3PT: 32.0%, FT: 63.2%; injured in Jan.'09 and was off for one month: Eurocup: 10 games: 10.9ppg, Reb-2 (7.7ppg), 1.0apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 37.5%, 3PT-3 (53.6%), FT: 64.0%. In 2009-2010, he played for BC Partizan Igokea Beograd (Serbia-A League, starting five): Serbian League: 16 games: 8.3ppg, Reb-4 (7.1rpg), 2.0apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 57.8%, 3PT: 42.1%, FT: 80.0%; Euroleague: 21 games: 9.0ppg, Reb-3 (7.4rpg), 2.3apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 34.6%, 3PT: 31.9%, FT: 65.8%; Adriatic League: 26 games: 10.6ppg, Reb-4 (7.0rpg), 1.3apg, Steals-3 (1.8spg), FGP: 49.0%, 3PT: 29.5%, FT: 75.0%. In 2010-2011, he played for : Efes Pilsen Istanbul (Turkey-TBL, starting five): Euroleague: 16 games: 6.5ppg, 5.1rpg, FGP: 46.4%, 3PT: 37.9%, FT: 59.4%; Turkish League: 31 games: 8.1ppg, 5.2rpg, FGP: 56.0%, 3PT: 26.9%, FT: 71.6%.Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been HS three-time first-team All-District 17-5A and first-team all-state selection as a senior, All-Big 12 Conf. Honorable Mention -02, Big 12 All-Stars Team touring Europe -02, All-Big 12 Conf. 3rd Team -03, Big 12 Conf. All-Underrated Team -03, SEC Regular Season Western Division Champion -04, All-SEC 1st Team -04, 05All-SEC Player of the Year -04, NCAA All-American 2nd Team -04 (by ESPN.com and SportsLine.com), NABC All-NCAA District 6 1st Team -05, Radivoj Korac (Serbian Cup) Finalist -09, Adriatic League Semifinals -09, Eurobasket.com Adriatic League All-Imports Team -09, 10, Serbian League Regular Season Runner-Up -09Serbian League Finalist -09, Eurobasket.com Serbian League All-Imports Team -09, 10, Radivoj Korac (Serbian Cup) Winner -10, Eurobasket.com All-Euroleague Honorable Mention -10, Eurobasket.com Euroleague All-Defensive Team -10, Adriatic League Regular Season Runner-Up -10, Adriatic League Champion -10, Eurobasket.com All-Adriatic League 2nd Team -10, Euroleague Final Four -10, Eurobasket.com All-Serbian League 2nd Team -10, Eurobasket.com Serbian League All-Defensive Team -10, Serbian League Regular Season Champion -10, Serbian League Champion -10, Turkish President Cup Winner -10, Turkish League Semifinals -11, Eurocup Semifinals -12, Baltic League Finalist -12, VTB United League Semifinals -12, Lithuanian League Regular Season Runner-Up -12, Lithuanian League Finalist -12, Eurobasket.com Lithuanian LKL All-Newcomers Team -12, and Lithuanian League All-Star Game -12


The BG Goettingen Connection Keeps Rolling With The s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg As Michael Meeks Arrives - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

John Patrick might be gone, but that BG Goettingen flair is still in the air in Wurzburg as the s.Oliver Baskets grabbed Michael Meeks for the assistant coach duties. Meeks got a one year deal with an option for a second year. Meeks started his coaching career as an assistant in Goettingen and last season was promoted to head coach as the team fired their head coach. There arent many assistant coaches in the Beko BBL that can look back on as much experience as Meeks can. Meeks who hails from Brampton, Canada and was born in Jamacia, but also has the German citizenship has been involved with basketball for over 20 years. He played in countries like Germany, Turkey, Finland, Italy, France, Russia, Croatia, Czech Republic and Belgium. "Michael is a big win for us, because he has a lot of expereince at the highest level. That is very important for our still young program. He shows a lot of effort and fits to us with his charachter", stated Wurzburg head coach Marcel Schroeder. Meeks who was the 5th top scorer at the 2000 Olympics in Sydney is happy about prolonging his coaching career in Wurzburg. "I didnt need to think much about coming as I got the offer. It was an easy decision for me after seeing their success last season. Wurzburg has a good program and do the small things well. I also am able to work together with some old teammates. They only told me good things about Marcel Schroeder. I am looking forward to working together with them and the coach", stressed Michael Meeks .

Source: s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg


FC Bayern Munich Extend Contract With Philipp Schwethelm But Gets Loaned To ratiopharm Ulm - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

FC Bayern Munich has announced today that German national player Philipp Schwethelm (201-F-89, agency: Pro One Sports) will get a contract extension, but be loaned out to ratiopharm Ulm. Schwethelm is a 23 year old 201cm forward and last season played for FC Bayern Munich and EuroCup: 6 games: 1.3ppg, 1.7rpg, 1.3apg; German League: 30 games: 3.2ppg, 2.2rpg. "We are happy that we could keep Philipp. For our strategy and concept was it importnat holding on to Philipp Schwethelm and Bastian Doreth. Philipp should make his next career step with Ulm. We will accompany him", stressed FC Bayern sport director Marko Pesic. Schwethelm is content with the move, but knows where his heart is. "FC Bayern is the team that I want to play long term for, but I will get more minutes with Ulm", stressed Philipp Schwethelm.

Source: FC Bayern Mnchen


Fabian Gentgen Remains With The Schwelmer Baskets - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Despite sitting out last season due to injury, PRO B team Schwelmer Baskets continue to show their trust in Fabian Gentgen (191-G-87) renewing his contract for the new season. Gentegn is a 25 year old 191cm guard from Hagen that will play his second season for Schwelm. Gentgen got injured in pre season in 2011, but is fit and ready to go again. "I continue to think that Fabian is a good PRO B player and I like his style. He is a good team player and he is like arole model on and off the court. As I saw that he would get helathy again, I didnt hesitate to give him another chnace. I hope he can quickly play like he once did", stressed Schwelmer Baskets head coach Raefel Wilder

Source: Schwelmer Baskets


Sid-Marlon Theis Remains With Erdgas Ehingen - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber


PRO A team Ergas Ehingen announced today that Sid Marlon Theis (204-F/C-93) will stay with them for another year. Sid Marlon Theis is a 19 year old 204cm power forward that will be starting his fourth year in Ehingen. Last season, he played 8 games: 1.4ppg, also a license to play at TuS Urspringschule (2.Regionalliga): 20 games: 6.1ppg. "Sid has made a nice development in the last years. He looks to have a good season with the Steeples with his length and versatility", stated Erdgas Ehingen head coach Ralph Junge. He won two NBBL titles in 2010 and 2011. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been Belgrade International Junior Tournament -11, German U18 National Team -11, European Championships U18 in Wroclaw (Poland) -11: 8 games: 3.5ppg, 1.4rpg, and German NBBL Championships Semifinals -12

Source: Erdgas Ehingen / Urspringschule


Scott Morrison agreed to terms with Eisbaeren Bremerhaven - by Moritz Korff

BBL team Eisbaeren Bremerhaven has completed the signing of Scott Morrison (212-C-86, college: Portland St.). The Canadian center will transfer from Energa Czarni Slupsk of Poland to Germany. He scored 10.6 points , 5.7 rebounds and 1.3 blocks per game for Slupsk last season.
Morrison comes from Vancouver, British Columbia and spent his college career at Portland State (NCAA Division 1). As a professional basketball player he had stints in Hungary, Estonia, Ukraine and most recently Poland. Following the 2009-2010 season and after capturing the Estonian championship with Tartu Ulikool/Rockr he was named Eurobasket.com All-Estonian League Center of the Year.


Djordje Pantelic joins BBL newcomer Mitteldeutscher BC - by Moritz Korff

Bundesliga newcomer Mitteldeutscher BC has wrapped up the signing of Djordje Pantelic (204-F-84), the club announced on its website today. Pantelic will be handed a one-year contract.
The 28-year-old Serb was named the Eurobasket.com All-Hungarian League Defensive Player of the Year following the 2011-12 season with Falco-Szova KC-Szombathely. He also made the All-Hungarian League Second Team. Pantelic averaged 13 points, 9 rebounds and close to 2 assists per game and was second in the league in blocked shots (1.6bpg).
One year earlier Pantelic earned Eurobasket.com All-Greek A2 First Team and All-Defensive Team honors following a stellar campaign with Apollon Patras in the Greek second division. He led the A2 league in blocks (1.9bpg), ranked second in rebounding (8.9rpg) and scored 11 points per outing.


BG Dorsten signs second American player - by Moritz Korff

BG Dorsten (2. Bundesliga Pro B) has signed Christopher Jones (183-G-88, college: Prairie View A&M) for the 2012-13 season, the club unveiled.
Jones is 23 years of age and hails from Katy, Texas. He graduated from NCAA Division 1 program Prairie View A&M in 2010 and then started his pro career at BC Prievidza of Slovakia. Due to injury he only appeared in eight games for the first division team throughout the 2010-11 season, averaging 15.1 points, 6 assists, 5 boards and 2.5 steals.
In his senior season (2009-10) at Prairie View A&M Jones averaged 8.3 points, 5.2 assists, 4.9 rebounds and 2.7 steals per contest.


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  GREECE   


Panathinaikos grabs 'Liga Endesa Player of the Year' Andy Panko - by Eurobasket News

Andy Panko (204-F-77, agency: Beo Basket, college: Lebanon Valley) is a new member of Panathinaikos Athens. The 'Liga Endesa Player of the Year' signed a deal today with former Euroleague and Greek champions. Panko arrives to PAO from Lagun Aro GBC, where he exploded last season with 18.6 ppg, 5.2 rpg and 1.3 apg for 36 games. Panko was MVP and top scorer of the championship. The player picked up many awards:

Eurobasket.com All-Spanish ACB Player of the Year -12
Eurobasket.com All-Spanish ACB Import Player of the Year -12
Eurobasket.com All-Spanish ACB 1st Team -12
Eurobasket.com Spanish ACB All-Imports Team -12

Lagun Aro GBC was No.5 of the regular season and they reached Playoff Quarterfinals. Andy Panko played for the club also in 2009/10 and 2010/11. Before that he spent two years with Bruesa. Panko is not a new face in Greece as he already spent some time with PAOK in 2006/07. He finished that season with Bilbao, where he also played in 2005/06. Earlier this month PAO hired Argiris Pedoulakis as new Head Coach and landed Sofoklis Schortsanitis and Michael Bramos.


Olympiacos extends Giorgos Printezis - by Diamadis Farmakis

He made the most important basket in Olympiacos history and he will remain with his hometown club, as the Reds have signed versatile forward Georgios Printezis (206-F-85, agency: FCM) to a new deal through the end of the 2014-15 season.

Printezis (2.02 meters, 27 years old) led Olympiacos to the Turkish Airlines Euroleague title in May by hitting the game-winning shot with just 0.7 left in the final against CSKA, which the Reds won 61-62 in epic fashion. Printeziss baseline floater capped a 19-point comeback and gave Olympiacos its second Euroleague crown.

For the season he averaged 10.6 points on 60.2% two-point shooting and 86.4% free throws to go with 4.1 rebounds in 21 Euroleague games. Printezis also helped Olympiacos win the Greek League title last season. Printezis grew up with Asteras Agiou Dimirtriou and was signed by Olympiacos in 2000.

He played there for six seasons interrupted only by a season on loan to Olympia Larissa before going abroad to play for Unicaja in Spain. However after a season and a half, Printezis returned home and rejoined Olympiacos in March 2011. Printezis is also a regular for the Greek national team and helped it win the bronze medal at EuroBasket 2009.


Kostas Kaimakoglou's transfer, announced from Unics Kazan - by Diamadis Farmakis

Unics Kazan of Russia, a wild card recipient for the Turkish Airlines Euroleague Qualifying Rounds, has added one of the most versatile players in the competition, combo forward Kostas Kaimakoglou (206-C/F-83), with a two-year deal, the club announced Wednesday.

Kaimakoglou (2.04 meters, 29 years old) arrives from Panathinaikos Athens, the team with whom he won the Turkish Airlines Euroleague title in 2011. Last season, Kaimakoglou averaged 7.9 points and 4.1 rebounds off the bench for the Greens as they returned to the Final Four, but lost in the semis. His 44.1% accuracy on three-pointers ranked him 10th overall in the competition and third among forwards.

Kaimakoglou spent the first two years of his pro career with Near East in Athens, then the next six with Maroussi, with whom he made his Euroleague debut in 2009-10, averaging 9.6 points as the team went from the qualifying rounds to the brink of the playoffs.


Hellenic Market News - by Chris Mammides

Transfer news
Stavros Toutziarakis (210-C-87) is oficially another Greek player who will follow his basketball destiny abroad, the powerfull player agreed financial terms for one year with the Swedish club Solna Vikings where Head Coach is Aris Likogiannis.
Panathinaikos after signing the American veteran and top scorer of the ACB league Andy Panko (204-F-77, college: Lebanon Valley) is signing one of the most talented Greek centers as the Spartan Giorgos Diamantakos (210-C-95) is expected to follow Charalampopoulos and the other talents which this year Panathinaikos is gathering in its roster. At the same time Dimitris Diamantidis has agreed to renew his contract until 2015!
Nikos Kalles (211-F/C-87) renewed his contract with PAOK for another one season.
Ikaros Kallitheas agreed financial terms with Vassilis Symtsak (205-F/C-81), the ex power forward of Kavala is following his head Coach Dimitris Priftis from Kavala to Kallithea all the way

Other Transfer news from the smaller divisions
Lavrio agreed financial terms with Christos Liberopoulos (185-G-88) ex player of Nea Kifisia while they renewed Dionysios Giannakopoulos (195-G/F-82) and Michalis Perakis (207-C-84).
Agia Paraskevi agreed financial terms with Sokratis Manavopoulos (205-F-81) and Kostas Vardavas (193-G-81)
Panerythraikos agreed financial terms with small forward ex Pagrati player, Nikos Makris (188-G-79)
Ermis Perama agreed financial terms with Dimitris Vandoros, Alexis Bardas (189-F-81), Dionisios Kapiniaris (185-G-91), Spyro Marino, Isidoro Pliatsikoudis, Vassili Karamadouki and Dimosthenis Avramidis (193-G-83)
MENT agreed financial terms with Petros Papadopoulos (188-G-92), Thanos Tsimpis (190-G-89) and Babis Mouratidis (186-G-86) while they renewed Nikos Terpos (194-G-92)
Ermis Lagkada agreed financial terms with Gianis Kasouras (203-F-92) ex player of Anagennisi Floga, Tasos Mavrokefalidis (200-F-94) ex player of Makedonikos and the talented Petros Mitrovic (185-G-97) ex player of Egaleo
Ilion agreed financial terms with Tasos Moukas ex Ionikos Neas Filadelfias player and Christos Strangas ex Gas AEtos player who is doign a big step in his career as from the D league goes all he way to the B' League.
Near East agreed financial terms with Ilias Mougios ex player of Agia Paraskevi
Foinikas Larissas agreed financial terms with three players, Kostas Athanassopoulos, Kostas Saribalidis and Giannis Gorgolis (193-G-93)


Bulgaria edged Greece in the friendly opener - by Eurobasket News

Greece U18-Bulgaria U18 53:61

Bulgaria U18 edged Greece U18 in the friendly opener. The guests grabbed 61:53 win in a 3-games campaign being held in Thessaloniki, Greece.
Greece started with 13-8 and did not slow down until the end of the half. The hosts led 29:23 at the halftime, while Bulgaria managed to erupt in the second half. Bulgaria grabbed 45:42 lead after three quarters and pushed the tempo for good in the last period.
Lepitsev and Deyan Karamfilov (179-PG-94) top-scored for the winners with 12 points each. Kris Minkov (197-F-94) and Voutev followed them with 10 points apiece. Dimitrios Agravanis (208-F-94, agency: FCM) ended up with 16 points in the losing effort and Diamantis Slaftsakis (202-PF-94) added 9. Alexandros Mitsialos (201-F-94) poured in 7 points and Eleftherios Bochoridis (194-G-94) had 6.

Greece U18: Dimitrios Agravanis 16, Diamantis Slaftsakis 9, Alexandros Mitsialos 7, Eleftherios Bochoridis 6
Bulgaria U18: Lepitsev 12, Deyan Karamfilov 12, Kris Minkov 10, Voutev 10


Greece U18 bounced back over Bulgarian players - by Eurobasket News

Greece U18-Bulgaria U18 83:66

Greece U18 bounced back over Bulgarian players in the second friendly game between two sides. The hosts overcame Bulgaria U18 83:66.
Greece started the game with 18-15 and continued their narrow lead at the end of the half. They added 21-19 in the second frame and grabbed 39:34 at the halftime. Bulgarian players looked better in the third quarter and produced a 18-16 burst to reduce to 55:52 with 10 minutes to go. Greece however erupted with 28-14 in the last stanza to seal the victory.
Mitsialis top-scored for the winner with 18 points and Bochoridis nailed 14. Gondicas delivered 11, while Karamolegos scored 10. Grozev ended up with 16 points in the losing effort and Nikolay Stoyanov posted 13. Vutev netted 12 and Velislav Galabov followed them with 8.

Greece U18: Mitsialis 18, Bochoridis 14, Gondicas 11, Karamolegos 10
Bulgaria U18: Grozev 16, Nikolay Stoyanov 13, Vutev 12, Velislav Galabov 8


Greece U16 comes back from Zrenjanin - by Eurobasket News

Greece U16 comes back from Zrenjanin as they participated at the International Tournament. The Greek side won one game and finished last in Serbia.
Russia outplayed Greece in Day One 74:66. The Russian team looked better in the majority of the game and rightfully clinched the victory.
In Day Two Greece outscored Serbia 67:53. The guests grabbed 13-7 lead in the first quarter and never looked behind after. They added 25-15 in the second quarter and increased to 16 points at the halftime. Serbia bounced back with 18-13 in the third period but could not catch up with the opponents. Greece finished the game with 16-12 and sealed the victory. Nikola Pavlovic (204-PF-96) and Jovanovic scored 12 pts each in this defeat.
In Day 3 Ukraine won over Greece 85:84.


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  HOLLAND   


EiffelTowers Den Bosch re-signs Wessels, Akerboom - by Fred Roggen

Dutch champion EiffelTowers Den Bosch re-signed the Dutch forwards Stefan Wessels (203-F-84, agency: R.H.Consultancy) and Kees Akerboom (200-F-83, agency: Court Side) for the upcoming season. "They were important players in winning the championship", said GM Frederiks.
Kees Akerboom (200-F-83, agency: Court Side), averaged 10.8ppg, 2.8rpg, FGP: 45.0%, 3PT: 41.9%, FT-3 (84.3%) in 41 DBL games, while Stefan Wessels averaged 11.2ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.7apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 59.7%, 3PT: 29.5%, FT: 81.3% IN 42 DBL games last season.
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EiffelTowers Den Bosch announces Ralf de Pagter - by Fred Roggen

Fifteen-time Dutch champion EiffelTowers Den Bosch bolstered its frontcourt for its return to the competition next season by inking Dutch power forward Ralf de Pagter (200-F-89, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement)
the club announced Wednesday. The contract between the club and the 22-year-old power forward has not yet signed, but EiffelTowers Den Bosch expected to sign the contract with Ralf de Pagter end of this week.
Ralf de Pagter arrives from Rotterdam College Basketbal, where he averaged 9.5ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 44.5%, 3PT: 27.8%, FT: 78.4% in 25 Dutch Basketball league games last season.



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  ISRAEL   


Israeli Transactions: Nissim, Rothbart, Yivzory, Martin & Ben-Chimol - by David Pick

Prior to leaving Israel for the NBA's Las Vegas summer league, Galil/Gilboa's head coach Lior Lubin successfully managed to secure sharpshooter Dagan Yivzori for the player's fifth consecutive season with the team. The northern Israel squad also agreed terms of a 3-year deal with promising 6-foot-3 U18 Israeli national team guard Maxim Kikus (Agency: Avi Zilberman).

In addition, Galil is negotiating with another U18 national squad member in Ben Altit (Agency: Avi Zilberman). The 6-foot-10 athletic forward is entertaining the possibility of joining either Galil or Division I new comber -- Hapoel Eilat.

In related news, according to a report by Or Shkedy of Israel's Walla!, Eilat acquired Spanish-Israeli power forward Jan Martin, who played for Galil last season. According to Eurobasket sources, terms of agreement allow both sides to terminate the deal by July 30th. Sources said Martin is interested in utilizing his Spanish passport and is looking to play in the ACB League, while Galil met yesterday with Israel's 7-foot-2 national big man Robert Rothbart.

Rothbart, who won the Slovenian domestic cup last season with Euroleague's Olimpija Ljubljana, is interested in staying overseas. If Eilat doesn't land a deal with Rothbart by the end of July, the team's agreement with Martin will become official.

Shkedy also reported that Eilat added depth to its backcourt armor in Haifa's recent 28-year-old poised point guard Avi Ben-Chimol.

That said, Eurobasket informs the Maccabi Haifa just recently reached out to Israeli national combo-guard Afik Nissim (Agency: Beo Basket), who played abroad for the last nine seasons. According to sources close to the player, Nissim is keen on playing for a European competition team and that in addition, both sides are far from reaching a financial agreement.



Hapoel Jerusalem return Meir Tapiro - by Eurobasket News

Meir Tapiro (192-PG-75, agency: Avi Zilberman) comes back to Jerusalem. The guard signed contract with Hapoel Jerusalem. Meir Tapiro played for the team back in 2000/03 and 2005/07 seasons. Last season the guard spent with Maccabi Ashdod. Meir Tapiro notched 9.6 points, 7.2 assists, 4.9 rebounds and 1.5 steals per game in Premier League. He participated at Premier League All-Star Game. Meir Tapiro also had stints with Hapoel Tel-Aviv, Maccabi Haifa, Nancy, Bnei Hasharon and Maccabi Rishon Le-Zion during his career. Eurobasket.com named Meir Tapiro All-Israeli League Guard of the Year back in 2004. He was also trumped Domestic Player of the Year in 2007 and 2008. The guard was the member of Israeli National Team in 1998/2008 seasons.


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  ITALY   


Carlo Recalcati takes over Sutor Montegranaro as Head Coach - by Eurobasket News

Sutor Montegranaro got a new Head Coach for the next season. The Italian squad officially hired Carlo Recalcati (agency: Players Group). The 66-year-old specialist worked last two seasons with Cimberio Varese. He led them to SerieA Playoffs in both years. Before Varese, Recalcati worked as Head Coach of the Italian National Team. From 2003 to 2006, the coach worked with Montepaschi Siena winning the SerieA title with them in 2004. He was named Eurobasket All-SerieA Coach of the Year. In the past, Recalcati coached Reggio Calabria, Paf Bologna, Varese, Bergamo and Cantu. As mentioned above, Varese reached SerieA Quarterfinals last season. They failed to Montepaschi 1-3.


Cantu and Andrea Cinciarini part ways, next stop - Reggio Emilia - by Eurobasket News

Andrea Cinciarini (193-PG-86) is no longer a member of Cantu. The Italian squad today officially announced that the deal is terminated and Cinciarini got status of free agent. According to Sportando.net, the point guard will sign a deal with SerieA newcomer Reggio Emilia. Reportedly, it will be official during the day. Reggio Emilia won Lega Due regular season title last season with 20-8 record. Andrea Cinciarini had 5.2 pg, 2.6 rpg and 2.3 apg for Cantu in 16 Euroleague games last season. They managed to reach Top 16. In SerieA, the point guard collected 4.9 ppg, 2.3 rpg and 1.9 apg in 34 games. Before Cantu, Cinciarini spent two years with Montegranaro. In 2011, he was named Eurobasket.com All-Italian SerieA Domestic Player of the Year. In the past, Cinciarini played for Edmes Pavia, Power Dry Pistoia and Scavolini Pesaro. He also played for Italian National Team last summer at the EuroBasket in Lithuania. Cinciarini appeared 4 times at this event averaging 1.3 points.
Few days ago Cantu signed deal with Marco Cusin (211-C-85, agency: Interperformances). The sides have agreed on terms of two-year contract. Cusin spent the last two seasons with Scavolini Pesaro. He tallied 7.7 points, 5.1 rebounds, 1.2 steals and 1.3 blocks per game in SeriaA last season. Eurobasket.com named Marco Cusin into Italian SeriaA All-Domestic Players Team.


Milano signs PG Rok Stipcevic - by Eurobasket News

EA7 Emporio Armani Milano announced signing of Croatian point guard Rok Stipcevic (185-PG-86). The player parted ways with Cimberio Varese. He played 36 games for them last season averaging 11.4 points, 3.3 assists and 2.6 rebounds. Stipcevic joined Varese in February of 2011 collecting 9.3 ppg, 3.2 apg and 2.5 rpg for rest of the 2011/12 season. He started it with Cibona VIP Zagreb posting 10.3 ppg, 4.1 apg and 2.8 rpg for 9 Euroleague games. The point guard had almost the same numbers in Croatian league. In the past, Stipcevic spent couple of years with Zadar.
Rok Stipcevic is active member of the Croatian National Team. The player had 1.2 ppg for 5 games at the 2011 EuroBasket in Lithuania. He also played for his country at the 2010 World Championship in Turkey.


Pallacanestro Cantu ink Jerry Smith - by Giovanni Bargna

Pallacanestro Cantu officially announce point guard Jerry Smith (188-G-87, college: Louisville) with a 2-year deal.
Smith is 25 years old and spent his college career at Louisville, scoring 10.7ppg in his second season and 8.3 ppg in his last one in which he added also 3.2rpg and almost 2 assists.
He spent his first pro season in the D-League with the Springfield Armor averaging 12.8 pooints per game before flying to New Zealand in 2011 to join the Waikato Pistons.
In his experience in New Zealand he gave a great contribution to the team with 17.9ppg, 4.3rpg and 3.5apg.
After getting back to the USA and to the Springfield Armor he played 5 games in the NBA with the New Jersey Nets.
The contract signed by Cantu and Smith includes and NBA escape clause that will expire on July 25.
Jerry Smith will join the Las Vegas Summer League during the next days.

"After we faced some troubles at point guard position last season we decided to take a more "traditional" way now chosing Jerry Smith. I think he is the right guy for our team because of his offensive skills", this is what Anna Cremascoli, team owner, said about this deal.


Cantu and Cinciarini parted ways, the player heading to Reggio Emilia - by Giovanni Bargna

As officially reported by the team today Pallacanestro Cantu and point guard Andrea Cinciarini (193-PG-86) parted ways.
The player joint the team last season and shared with them a good season in the Euroleague and in the italian league. Cinciarini, in the starting five early in the season and then from the bench, gave his contribution with 5.1 ppg and 2.1 assists in the LegaA.
As per the rumors Andrea Cinciarini is in advanced talks with Trenkwalder Reggio Emilia and will be announced soon by the team for next season.


Sassari ink DiLiegro - by Giovanni Bargna

Dane Diliegro (204-C-88, college: New Hampshire) found an agreement with Sassari and will be officially announced by the team soon.
This is what the player twitted : "Officially signed for next year. Forza Sassari!!"
DiLiegro, out of New Hampshire college, had his first season as a pro with Ostuni in the LegaDue scoring 9 points per game and grabbing 7 rebounds.
After discovering Easley last year Sassari come back signing a US player from the LegaDue and hope to make a good deal once again.


Stefano Gentile inks with Juve Caserta - by Eurobasket News

Stefano Gentile (191-PG-89) inks with Juve Caserta for the upcoming season. According to Ufficio Stampa Juve Caserta, the Italian Point Guard moves from Novipiu Casale Monferrato.
In 2000-2001 he appeared for Panathinaikos Athens (Greece-A1) Cadet Team and later moved to Maddaloni (C1) Cadet and Junior Team. In 2005-2006 he signed with Pepsi Caserta (Lega2) and in 2006-2007 went to Andrea Costa Imola (Lega2).
In 2007-2008 Stefano Gentile signed with Armani Jeans Milano (SerieA) and in Euroleague averaged 4.0ppg, while in Italian League his stats read 1.1ppg.
Later he played for Ital Green Energy Ostuni (B dilettanti), Bitumcalor Trento (A dilettanti, starting five) and Fastweb Junior Casale Monferrat0. In 2011-2012 moved to Novipiu Casale Monferrato (SerieA, starting five) and after 29 games showed 6.6ppg, 1.6rpg, 1.7apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 46.7%, 3PT: 29.4%, FT: 84.6%.


Viktor Sanikidze heads to Montepaschi Siena - by Eurobasket News

Viktor Sanikidze (203-F-86) heads to Montepaschi Siena for the next two seasons. According to Ufficio Stampa Mens Sana Siena, the Georgian player signed a 2+1 contract.
Viktor Sanikidze spent the last three season for Canadian Solar Bologna (Italy-SerieA, starting five). Last year in 33 games he averaged 11.7ppg, Reb-1 (11.0rpg), 1.4apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 57.0%, 3PT: 30.5%, FT: 63.7%.
Georgian forward Viktor Sanikidze became the top player in Round 19. The 25-year old player had a double-double of 16 points and 12 rebounds, while his team crushed Sidigas AV with 20-point margin 76-56. Sanikidze has many years of experience at CS Bologna, through which he has constantly improved.
Viktor Sanikidze became also the top player in round 16.
Earlier he played for MMT Estudiantes Madrid, Tartu Ulikool/Rock, SAOS J.D.A. Dijon Bourgogne and J.D.A. Dijon. In 2004 he was drafted by Atlanta Hawks (NBA,2rd (42)), and then traded to San Antonio Spurs (NBA).


Alex Tyus inks with Pallacanestro Cantu - by Eurobasket News

Alex Tyus (203-F-88, college: Florida) inks with Pallacanestro Cantu for the next season. According to www.sportando.net, Alex Tyus will continue his career in Italy.
UCAM Murcia wanted to sign Alex Tyus (203-F-88, college: Florida) for the next season, however the deal failed between two sides. Tyus spent last season with Israeli Maccabi Ashdod. He shined with 12.6 ppg, 8.5 rpg and 1.4 bpg for 30 games and they reached Premier League Finals. For his performance, Tyus was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Israeli League Sixth Man of the Year -12. He was also named Eurobasket.com All-Israeli League 2nd Team -12.
Alex Tyus graduated at the University of Florida something more than a year ago. He had 9.1 ppg and 6.2 rpg for his school as a senior. They reached NCAA Elite Eight. Florida also played in SEC Tournament Finals in 2011.
Alex Tyus is an athletic, active rebounder who can crash the boards and finish well from close range.


Bo McCalebb between Fenerbahce and Unics Kazan - by Pervin Elgin

The Russian team and the Turkish team made their offer for the American, FYROM player

According to source close to the player, the future of Bo McCalebb will be in Russia with Unics Kazan or in Turkey with Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul.
Both teams made their offer to the American PG with passport from FYROM who has spent the last two seasons in Italy with Mens Sana Siena.
The top priority of Ferdinando Minucci, president of Mens Sana, is to shop McCalebb this offseason because at the end of the next one, McCalebb has an NBA Out with very small amount of money.
Minucci wants to monetize the departure of Bo McCalebb and he is asking 1.3M. Unics Kazan offered to McCalebb a 2.2M per year contract while the offer made by Fenerbahce was 2M per season. In the Turkish powerhouse, McCalebb would work again with Simone Pianigiani just appointed as head coach for the next two years.
The buyout is now a big issue for both Unics Kazan and Fenerbahce because the two clubs are extremely eager to sign Bo McCalebb.

Bo McCalebb has also market in the NBA and he got offers up to $4.7M per season but the big issue is the buyout too high for the NBA.

Courtesy of sportando.net


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  LIGA SUDAMERICANA   


Liga Sudamericana 2012/13 - by Facundo Iatzky

ABASU (Southamerican association) released the scedule and the participants for the next season of Liga Sudamericana. The first round will be played in four groups of 4 teams each. The first two teams of each group will advance to second round. And the winners of this round will advance to the final four.
The news for this season is that the first 8 teams of the tournament will play in next Liga de las Americas, with other 8 teams from Mexico and central America.

Schedule:
Group A (Ibarra Ecuador, 9, 10 , 11 october): Obras Sanitarias (Argentina), Pinheiros (Brazil), Centauros Apure (Venezuela) , Mavort (Ecuador).

Group B (Brasilia - Brazil, 16, 17 , 18 october): Regatas Corrientes (argentina), Uniceub (Brazil), Malvin (Uruguay), Amistad (Bolivia).

Group C (Mar del Plata Argentina, el 23, 24 y 25 octubre): Penarol Mar del Plata (Argentina), Flamengo (Brazil), Hebraica Macabi (Uruguay), a team from Chile

Group D (Vargas Venezuela, 30,31 october and November 1 ): Libertad Sunchacles (Argentina), Sao Jose (Brazil), Tiburones (Venezuela), El Bosque Peru.


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  LUXEMBOURG   


Bascharage tab Neven Zeravica - by Eurobasket News

Bascharage filled in the second import spot. They agreed on terms of contract with Neven Zeravica (205-C-88, college: W.Virg.Wesl.). The Croatian centre will join Justin Caldwell (187-G, college: Glenville St.) who signed with the Hedgehogs earlier. Neven Zeravica started the previous season with Jolly Sibenik. He was loaned then to DOSK Drnis in Greek A2 League. Previously Neven Zeravica had stints with Meteor Djakovo, Skola Kosarke Osijek, Citadel and West Virginia-Wesleyan.


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  MEXICO   


Coach Gio Rivera targets Brazil as his next stop - by Carlos Chapa

After having a tremendous tournament at the U18 FIBA Americas Championship, where Mexico clinched a historic 5th place, the experienced coach Giovanni Rivera is chasing an opportunity to coach in one of the top leagues in Latin America. "During the tournament we were a nice surprise since they expected us to be a poor team but the guys did a great job and kept us on the fight all the time against all the teams specially with Brazil". "After the Brazil game a lot of fans, local coaches, managers and federation members from several countries came to congratulate the mexican squad for the nice game and specially the coaching staff for the nice job made in a short period of time". It is definetly a great achievement for ADEMEBA and the aztec ball to almost qualify for World Championships next year and also a lot of kids will go to to college in the USA, in the meantime the rest will stay in top colleges in Mexico. "I feel so proud because we are not just simply playing tournaments, we prepare young players for their future not just in basketball also in life". For all the managers that inquired about my services as a coach and I did not had the chance to talk directly with you here is my contact info giovariso13@hotmail.com +52 473 1414034.



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  MONTENEGRO   


Interview with Nemanja Grabovica, U21 NT of Montenegro and KK Sutjeska point guard - by Darko Pekic

Tomorow start the European Championships in Slovenia (12 to 22 July). Eurobasket.com took the opportunity to interview one of the mebers of Mihailo Pavicevic 's squad, Nemanja Grabovica (190-G-92) and ask him about his expectations and last year achievements. Take a look..

Hello Nemanja, please explain to eurobasket.com readers how did you decide to play basketball? It was love at first sight?

Hi Darko, Greetings to you and to all readers of Eurobasket.com.As a boy I watched basketball on TV and I wanted to try and learn to play it. A friend of my father father's told us about Basketball Club Anagastum Niksic and thats where it all started, I spent eight wonderful years there . From the first time I entered the gym I realized that this woud be my favorite sport and I will do everything in my power to play basketball for long time. But basketball was not my first choice first sport. Actually it was karate.I practiced both sports for five years and then I decided to go on just basketball and dedicate it 100%. I have not regretted.

Who was your first coach?

My first coaches were Peko Visnjic,Nikola Mandic and Jovan Papovic (192-G-85). I learned a lot from them and I owe them a lot because they helped me to learn the basics in basketball.

It did not take you a lot of time to get noticed and you got a call to join the U18 NT of Montenegro where you played with Nemanja Djurisic (203-F-92), Radosav Spasojevic (204-F/C-92, agency: Interperformances) and others. What kind of memories do you have on your first national team experience?

That call was the reward for my efforts and good work. We had a really good generation, but unfortunately we were unable to join the A division, although we deserved to get promoted. However, bad 5 minutes in the last quarter against Czech Republic costed us a lot and we failed to get that promotion diviziju. I was satisfied with my performances on this tournament- first in 3 point percentage in the whole tournament. That call gave me an extra incentive to continue with good training and I owe much gratitude to Mijo Kadija who decided to take his chance on me.

In the 2010-2011 season are you debuted in the first division debut for BC Danilovgrad. Your team completed the season on the bottom part of the table. What kind of impressions link you for the season spent in Danilovgrad?

Very good memories indeed. I got a chance in the first team and both coaches, Nikola Milatovic and Borivoje Stanisic , beleived in me. We had a young team and we were all eager to prove ourselves. Unfortunately the season did not finish successfully for us but my first professional year gave me the confidence and I realized that I cold play against much older and more experienced players than myself.

In the past season you decided to return to your hometown and did not make a mistake-Sutjeska entered the finals of the league and the cup and it represented the most pleasant surprise last season. However, at the time you decided to return Sutjeska was only a newcomer in the fisrt leagues and everybody excepted to see it fight for survival. What motivated you to return to Niksic?

Niksic lacked first league basketball for long time and when they won promotion two season ago I really wanted to return and help my home team in its first league battle. The management convinced me that the club would be well organized team and that younger players would get a chance. I accepted the call without thinking twice and now, when its all over, I realized how good and successful season is behind us. Our first goal was to avoid relegation but during the season our objectives increased with our good results. All the basketball fans in Niksic have realized that we fought hard and provided us great support whih is another important fact. An additional motive for me was the fact that I was close again to friends and family after playing three years outside Niksic.

In the championship semifinals you eliminated, unexpectedly fopr many people, the strong favorite- Mornar from Bar. What was crucial to eliminate such a strong team? You personally gave a great contribution in the decisive match played in Bar with 10 points.

Well, I think that no one but us in the club believed that we could beat the favorites. We had a really great team spirir and I think that's key to success. We did not have the imperative of results which probably helped us to play as the coach asked us. Limiting their ofense was crucial and we knew that we would be better in a tied game situation which was confirmed later. I played the semi-final series very well. Everyone from the club believed in me and I returned it to them in the best way possible.

In the Finals there was Buducnost in front of you, a superior and more experienced team that took advantage of your weakness and fatigue. Do you think it would have been a more equal game if you had counted on Nemanja Vranjes (188-G-88, agency: TSS Management) and Goran Gajovic (199-SF-88, agency: Kotnik Sports Agency) in top shape?

In the Finals Buducnost proved its class, although we managed to defeat them once during the season. But in the play-offs we were too exausted to do it again. Numerous injuries stopped us and I am sure if we had been all healthy the finals would have been more interesting to watch.

What was the secret of Sutjeskas success this year?

First of all I think the key to success was the great team chemistry. All the players and coaching staff were from Niksic and therefore it gives more importance to our success, because no team in this league had all players born and raised in the same city.There is also a great merit of the club management because they managed to provide us all the necessary conditions for good work and progress.Of course, I have to mention our fans who have cheered in every match in large numbers. They followed us everywhere.

You will spend this summer with th U21 National Team of Montenegro, preparing for the European Championships in Slovenia (12 to 22 July). What are your impressions so far and do you think that the team led by Mihailo Pavicevic will be an equal rival in Slovenia?

We are ready for the tournament and its a great satisfaction for me after a successful season. I will try to give my best to help the team achieve good results in the upcoming championship. I am excited and can not wait to play. extraordinary. We had a strong tournament in China, where participated China with their A team, selection of Serbia with the university team and the Croatian B National Team team. But we played equally with all opponents although they wereolder and more experienced than us. Coach Pavicevic was satisfied after that tournament with our hard work and dedication. Although 4 important players are not with us this year we will do our best and try not to disappoint fans in Montenegro

What are your palns for the future? Do you plan to stay in Sutjeska or you want a new challange?

I will think about it after the European Championship. If I got a good offer I would definitely think about it and see whats the best for me and my career. I would like to play one day ina stronger league and prove myself there. But I am satisfied in Sutjeska and I will probably start the season preparation with them.

Thank you for the interview Nemanja. We wish you all the best and a lot of success in the European Championship.

Thank you Darko for this opportunity and for the kind wishes. Best regards to all the raeders of Eurobasket.com.


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  NBA   


Denver Nuggets sign first-round draft pick Evan Fournier - by Eurobasket News

The Denver Nuggets have signed first-round draft pick Evan Fournier (6'7''-SG-92) to a multiyear contract, team Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations Masai Ujiri announced today.

Fournier, 6-7, 205, was selected by the Nuggets 20th overall in the 2012 NBA Draft after playing two seasons for Poitiers of Frances Pro A League.

The 19-year-old native of France averaged 14.1 points, 2.3 assists, and 1.5 steals in 29 games for Poitiers in 2011-12.

In his first year with the team, he became the youngest player in French League history to score more than 20 points when he scored 21 against SLUC Nancy on Feb. 5, 2011.

Fournier also competed for Frances under-20 national team at the 2011 U20 European Championship, averaging 16.9 points and 3.3 assists.

Fournier will join the Nuggets at the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas. Denver opens its five-game schedule Saturday against the Golden State Warriors.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com


Nuggets re-sign Andre Miller - by Eurobasket News

The Denver Nuggets re-signed veteran guard Andre Miller (6'2''-PG-76, college: Utah) on Wednesday.

Terms were not disclosed, but the Denver Post reported earlier in the week that it is a three-year deal.

Miller, 36, averaged 9.7 points and 6.7 assists in 66 games with the Nuggets last season. He has career averages of 14.1 points and 7.2 assists in 1,044 games for Denver, Portland, Philadelphia, the Los Angeles Clippers and Cleveland.

"Andre was great for our team and our young guys last season," said Nuggets executive vice president Masai Ujiri. "Our players and coaches were excited when they heard he was coming back. He provides leadership and consistency and he really fits perfectly in our system."

Also on Wednesday, the Nuggets signed first-round draft pick Evan Fournier. Selected 20th overall, the 19-year-old swingman played the last two seasons for Poitiers of France's Pro A League. He averaged 14.1 points, 2.3 assists and 1.5 steals in 2011-12.

Courtesy of www.foxnews.com


Dwight Howard trade: Lakers, Rockets back in the picture - by Eurobasket News

As of now, center Dwight Howard (6'11''-C-85) remains with the Orlando Magic, but the team is still searching for the best deal to make in trading him and remains active in doing that.

Whether it was former general manager Otis Smith or new GM Rob Hennigan, just two weeks on the job, the Magic have been patient while knowing Howard wants out and the Brooklyn Nets are his preferred team.

Throughout, the Magic have focused on getting first-round picks, younger, talented players and salary cap relief.

Tuesday afternoon, the Houston Rockets and Los Angeles Lakers re-emerged as potential trade partners, a person familiar with negotiations told USA TODAY Sports.

The person requested anonymity because he was not authorized to speak publicly about ongoing negotiations.

The person cautioned that nothing is imminent, just as Monday's trade talks among the Magic, Nets and Cleveland Cavaliers were exploratory.

The Magic continue to preach patience, looking for the best deal they can get for the All-Star center.

The Cavaliers seemed to be involved as a conduit team for the Magic and Nets to make a deal happen, but any involvement on their part had not advanced beyond exploratory in nature, a person familiar with negotiations told USA TODAY Sports on Tuesday.

The person requested anonymity because he was not authorized to speak publicly about ongoing negotiations.

Another person familiar with trade discussions for Howard told USA TODAY Sports that Orlando was never exclusively talking to the Nets. The Magic are and have been listening to other teams and trying to maximize the assets they get in exchange for Howard, this person said, also under condition of anonymity while negotiations are ongoing.

When Cleveland's interest in being part of a complicated multi-team deal seemed to wane, the Charlotte Bobcats were approached about the possibility of stepping into the deal and taking free-agent forward Kris Humphries, who played for the Nets last season, this person told USA TODAY Sports.

Humphries is not the only roadblock to a deal, but he is one of them. He signed a one-year contract for 2011-12 and is looking for something in the three-year, $24 million-$27 million range. He averaged 13.8 points and 11 rebounds for Brooklyn last season.

His agent, Dan Fegan, is also Howard's agent, and Fegan is trying to work deals that appease both clients.

Cleveland and Charlotte weren't interested in a guaranteed three-year deal for Humphries, and Humphries isn't thrilled with another one-year deal.

Courtesy of www.floridatoday.com


Report: Nets, Stackhouse agree to 1-year deal - by Eurobasket News

The Brooklyn Nets could be adding veteran guard Jerry Stackhouse (6'6''-G-74, college: N.Carolina) to their roster as early as today.

According to an ESPN.com report, Stackhouse and the Nets have verbally agreed to a one-year, $1.3 million deal.

Last season, Stackhouse played for the Atlanta Hawks. He averaged 3.6 points per game off the bench.

Though the 37-year-old is not producing the same league-leading numbers he was in 2000, his experience and veteran presence could be an asset to the Nets bench and locker room.

Courtesy of www.sportsnet.ca


Ray Allen officially joins Miami Heat - by Eurobasket News

Ray Allen (6'5''-G-75, college: Connecticut) was introduced as a member of the Miami Heat on Wednesday, much to the chagrin of Celtics fans who desired his return. His explanations about his departure were rather cloudy and he spent most of the press conference at AmericanAirlines Arena reflecting on his past five years with the Celtics.

Allen was pointedly asked about his relationship with Rajon Rondo and he said while there were differences between the two, it wasnt a major contributing factor to his departure.

I havent spoken with (Rondo) at all, said Allen. When I came down here I texted Paul (Pierce) and Kevin (Garnett), those are the guys I talked quite a bit with over the years and we shared a lot of similar philosophies. Those are the guys when we came into Boston together, a lot was put on our shoulders as to whether or not we were going to win. So I look back at all our times spent in Boston and we played, weve had a lot of disappointments, we shared a lot of thrills and a lot of that is off the court.

It is sad to me, knowing Im not going to be with those guys anymore. But Im looking forward to what we can do here in this organization, being a teammate of LeBrons (James), being a teammate of Dwyane (Wade), Chris Bosh. Those guys are all excited to have me here.

Last season, Allen had a increasingly difficult relationship with Rondo, who supported Bradley in the starting lineup because of his defensive prowess.

Allen said of Rondo: I cant say that it factored into my decision. I think as teammates we were brothers, I am around them more than I am around my own family. Theres differences. We all have differences. Thats just part of who we are as individuals and at the end of the day, we have to buy into what the coach believes is best for us. As players we have to put our differences aside.

Allen said he is excited about the role he can play with the Heat, who aggressively recruited him.

I talked to the people that are around me, that have watched me, followed me forever, they just said Change is not bad, you have to consider this and think about whether this organization is going to be beneficial to you playing basketball the way we know you play basketball, Allen said. It was that moment going forward that we said Hey this is going to be a great opportunity for me.

Allen helped the Celtics win the NBA title in 2008, and said he expects to be a part of the organization always.

Forever, Ill always be a Celtic, no matter what, he said.

In my mind, it never changes. I dont care what people say about me, Ill always stay true to the city of Boston and the fans there, he said. Theyve been great to me. Ill always consider that place home.

Courtesy of http://bostonglobe.com


Raptors officially acquire point guard Kyle Lowry from Rockets - by Eurobasket News

Kyle Lowry (6'0''-PG-86, college: Villanova) is officially a Toronto Raptor.

The Raptors finalized a trade for the former Houston point guard Wednesday. The Rockets will receive forward Gary Forbes and a protected future first-round draft choice in return.

The deal was first reported last week, shortly after the Raptors missed out on signing Victoria's Steve Nash. The Canadian star went to the Los Angeles Lakers instead.

The 26-year-old Lowry averaged career bests of 14.3 points, 4.5 rebounds and 1.6 steals during the 2011-12 season. He also contributed team highs of 6.6 assists and 32.1 minutes in 47 games, 38 of them starts.

As a starter, he increased his averages to 15.9 points, 5.3 rebounds, 7.2 assists, 1.8 steals and 35.5 minutes.

The six-year NBA veteran has averaged 10.4 points, 3.5 rebounds, 4.8 assists, 1.14 steals and 26.9 minutes in 359 career games. He has appeared in 13 post-season games, averaging 5.3 points, 2.9 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 19.5 minutes.

The six-foot, 205-pound Philadelphia native was a first-round draft choice (24th overall) by Memphis in 2006. He was dealt to the Rockets on February 19, 2009.

Lowry played two collegiate seasons at Villanova University before declaring for the NBA Draft.

Forbes averaged 6.6 points, 2.1 rebounds and 14.9 minutes in 48 games last season with the Raptors.

The Rockets have been collecting draft picks for a potential package to entice Orlando to send All-Star centre Dwight Howard their way.

Houston is expected to sign Bulls centre Omer Asik and Knicks guard Jeremy Lin to offer sheets. Chicago and New York will have three days to match the Rockets' offers.

Lin catapulted to stardom in New York during a dazzling stretch in February where he scored at least 20 points in nine of 10 games. The Knicks are expected to match Houston's offer and retain Lin, who was undrafted out of Harvard.

Courtesy of www.cbc.ca


Knicks officially get Camby in sign-and-trade - by Eurobasket News

The New York Knicks acquired veteran center Marcus Camby (6'11''-C/F-74, college: Massachusetts) in a sign-and-trade with the Houston Rockets on Wednesday.

In return, the Rockets received guard Toney Douglas, centers Josh Harrellson and Jerome Jordan, and two future second-round draft picks.

Camby, 38, played 59 combined games with the Trail Blazers and Rockets last season, averaging 4.9 points, 9.0 rebounds and 1.4 blocks. The 16-year-pro, who was member of the Knicks from 1998-2002, owns career totals of 9.7 points, 9.9 rebounds and 2.4 blocks in 949 games.

"It's exciting when you get the chance to bring a former Knick like Marcus Camby back home," said executive vice president Glen Grunwald. "His defensive presence, shot-blocking ability and offensive board work will give us nice depth in our frontcourt."

Douglas appeared in 38 games -- nine starts -- last season, averaging 6.2 points and 2.0 assists while shooting 32.4 percent from the field and 23.1 percent from three-point range. He has spent all three years of his NBA career with New York.

Harrellson, a second-round pick in 2011, averaged 4.4 points and 3.9 rebounds with the Knicks during his rookie campaign.

Jordan played in 21 games with New York last season, posting 2.0 points and 1.3 rebounds in just over five minutes per game. He was selected by Milwaukee in the second round of the 2010 draft.

Also on Wednesday, the Knicks signed swingman James White, who spent the past three seasons playing for St. Petersburg (Russia), Sassari (Italy) and Pesaro (Italy), respectively. He averaged 17.4 points with Pesaro in 2011-12.

Courtesy of www.foxnews.com


Hornets officially complete sign-and-trade for Ryan Anderson - by Eurobasket News

The Hornets officially announced their acquistion of Ryan Anderson (6'10''-F-88, college: California) in a sign-and-trade with the Orlando Magic Wednesday.

The Hornets came to terms over the weekend with Anderson on a four-year, $36 million sign-and-trade deal which will send Gustavo Ayon to the Magic.

We broke down the deal this weekend when details first emerged. (Read our Full Analysis here.)

The Hornets get a floor-spacing forward who also rebounds at a high rate to pair with Anthony Davis and most likely Eric Gordon, assuming the Hornets match the Phoenix Suns' max offer sheet for Gordon. There are concerns about how the Hornets will fare with the undersized but extremely long Davis attempting to play center at such a low weight and with such a thin frame. But the Hornets will have a versatile set of players to move forward with.

The Magic appear to be headed in two directions, giving Jameer Nelson a multi-year deal to retain him while letting Anderson, arguably the second-best player on the team behind Dwight Howard, go for only Ayon, who did show things but is not in the same class as Anderson.

Hornets GM Dell Demps said in a press release:

We are very excited to add a player of Ryan's caliber to the Hornets Organization and the New Orleans Community, Hornets General Manager Dell Demps said. Ryan is a high character person, a good teammate and a player we believe will make the Hornets a better team.

Courtesy of www.cbssports.com


Knicks officially sign James White - by Eurobasket News

The Knicks made their signing of swingman James White (6'7''-G-84, agency: Court Side, college: Cincinnati) official on Wednesday, but did not announce any terms (multiple reports say the deal is for one year).

White, a former University of Cincinnati and University of Florida small forward, was drafted by the Portland Trail Blazers in 2006 and should see significant playing time while Iman Shumpert recovers from a torn ACL. He never played for Portland, but did win an NBA Title as a bench player for the San Antonio Spurs in 2006-2007.

From there he played for Fenerbahce Ulker, the Anaheim Arsenal, the Houston Rockets, Spartak Sant Petersburg, Dinamo Sassari and Scavolini Pesaro, where he posted 17.4 points, 4.5 rebounds and shot 52.1 percent from the field over 30 Italian A League regular season games last year.

White made a name for himself in the McDonald's All-American Dunk Contest, which he lost to former Knicks forward David Lee in 2001, and at the 2006 NCAA College Slam Dunk Contest, which he lost to North Carolina's David Noel. He's also won several European Dunk Contests, including the Turkish League's.

What White brings to the Knicks is defense, energy and athleticism. He can play both shooting guard and small forward, which is helpful to a team that's about to lose Landry Fields to the Toronto Raptors; and he's a disciplined shooter. White isn't going to wow anyone from beyond the arc, but he's capable of hitting open shots and that's all the Knicks should need from him.

Courtesy of www.nj.com


Thunder sign C Thabeet - by Eurobasket News

The Oklahoma City Thunder signed center Hasheem Thabeet (7'3''-C-87, college: Connecticut) on Wednesday.

Last season, the 7-foot-3 Thabeet averaged 1.8 points and 2.1 rebounds in 20 games between Houston and Portland.

The No. 2 overall pick by Memphis in 2009 has played 135 games, including 16 starts, in three seasons with the Grizzlies, Rockets and Trail Blazers. In his career, Thabeet has scored 2.2 points and pulled in 2.7 rebounds per game. He is a University of Connecticut product.

Courtesy of www.chicagotribune.com


New York Knicks sign Pablo Prigioni, veteran Spanish League point guard - by Eurobasket News

Jeremy Lin (6'3''-PG-88, college: Harvard) has another veteran point-guard mentor - Spanish-style.

The 35-year-old Spanish League veteran Pablo Prigioni (6'3''-G-77) has signed with the Knicks for a one-year, $473,000 minimum contract, his agent George Bass told The Post.

Prigioni, who visited the Knicks three weeks ago, is being brought in as Lin insurance and also to help mentor him in addition to newly-acquired Jason Kidd.

Ive been talking to [Knicks general manager Glen] Grunwald about four, five years about him, Bass said. This is the year it got done. Hes been very persistent checking in about Pablo. Hes a very big fan. Hell bring leadership and will be there to help Jeremy a little bit.

Prigioni will face Team USA in the London Olympics, playing for Argentina. Hes been in the Spanish League since 1999-2000.

He looks to pass before he shoots, Bass said. Hes similar to Jason Kidd, more like a true point guard. Hes excited to be with the Knicks and in New York. Hes excited about everything.

Scouts also say his speciality is the pick-and-roll and may work well with Amare Stoudemire. He is more a slowdown PG a better fit for Mike Woodson than Mike DAntonis speedball.

Bass said Prigioni accepted less money to play in the NBA and is believed to be the oldest rookie in NBA history. The Knicks offered him a two-year deal but Prigioni passed because he feels he can lift his market value after being seen for a season.

The deal wont become official until FIBA clearance is given and that could take at least two days. Knicks European scout Kevin Wilson lives in Barcelona and has seen several of Prigionis games.

Im pretty sure hes better than a lot of young point guards in the NBA you get, Walter Szczerbiak, the former U.S. ambassador to the Spanish League, told The Post last month of Prigioni. He has great experience in tough situations and hes a good leader.

Courtesy of www.nypost.com


Jordan Farmar to be bought out; will play in Anadolu Efes - by Eurobasket News

Jordan Farmar (6'2''-PG-86, college: UCLA) is okay with it. The former Nets backup point guard, traded to Atlanta Tuesday as part of the package the Nets used to acquire all-star guard Joe Johnson, will be bought out by the Hawks today for $1.5 million. And once he clears waivers and is officially a free agent, Farmar, who played in Israel last summer during the NBA lockout, intends to go play in Europe, with Anadolu Efes, of Istanbul.

Farmar had the option of becoming a free agent this summer or exercise his player option to play for the Nets one more year, at $4.25 million. Farmar decided on June 30 -- the day he had to make the decision and hours before free agency began -- to pick the option up. But two days later, he was included in the trade to Atlanta, along with Anthony Morrow, Johan Petro and Jordan Williams. With a three-year offer from Efes on the table, Farmar asked to be bought out, and the Hawks were willing to accommodate him.

With Efes, Farmar will be once again rejoining two-time former teammate Sasha Vujacic, with whom he played on the Lakers and on the Nets.

"For me, it's great,'' Farmar said of his offer from Efes.

Farmar said Istanbul is a two-hour flight from Tel Aviv, Israel, where he played last summer and where he has family living. His wife will be able to fly to Tel Aviv while he is on long trips with the club, he said.

Farmar is believed to have been offered a three-year, $10.5 million deal with Efes. The Turkish club also would provide perks, like a place to live and a car for Farmar and his wife. Farmar is planning on getting married July 28.

Courtesy of www.nj.com


Pistons ink rookie Andre Drummond - by Eurobasket News

The Detroit Pistons signed their first-round draft pick, center Andre Drummond (6'11''-C-93, college: Connecticut), to a multi-year contract Tuesday. Terms of the contract were not disclosed. Detroit selected Drummond with the ninth overall pick after he averaged 10.0 points, 7.6 rebounds and 2.7 blocks last season as a freshman for the University of Connecticut. He also shot a team-high 53.8 percent from the floor. Drummond still has some maturing to do at the offensive end - he shot under 30 percent from the free throw line last season - but the Pistons may not ask him to score much, at least at first. Drummond could give Detroit somebody who can protect the rim and play alongside the more offensively polished Greg Monroe down low.


Spurs re-sign Tim Duncan for at least 16th season - by Eurobasket News

The San Antonio Spurs have re-signed Tim Duncan (6'11''-F/C-76, college: Wake Forest), bringing back the veteran forward for at least a 16th season.

Terms were not disclosed in Wednesday's announcement, though Yahoo Sports cited anonymous sources in reporting it was a three-year, $36 million deal. Duncan is 36.

The 6-foot-11 Duncan was selected by San Antonio with the first pick in the 1997 draft. In 15 seasons, Duncan has led the Spurs to nine division titles and the playoffs every year, including four NBA championships. He has two NBA MVP awards to go along with three NBA Finals MVP honours.

Coach Gregg Popovich said the team was thrilled to make sure that Duncan will spend his "entire career" in San Antonio.

Courtesy of www.tsn.ca


Devin Ebanks re-signs with Lakers - by Eurobasket News

Small forward Devin Ebanks (6'9''-F-89, college: W.Virginia) re-signed with the Lakers for a one-year deal worth a little more than $1 million, The Times has learned.

The move hardly elicits the fireworks the Lakers created last week when they acquired elite point guard Steve Nash. But it brings further clarity on how the Lakers will shore up their bench.

Ebanks, who will turn 23 in late October, has impressed the Lakers the past two seasons with his unassuming work ethic, length and athleticism. For the Lakers, this move keeps some needed youth on an otherwise veteran-laden team. For Ebanks, it gives him another season to convince the Lakers that he should be in their long-term future.

The signing can't become official until the free-agent moratorium ends on Wednesday.

"This makes the most sense for him," Ebanks agent, David Bauman, told The Times in a phone interview. "This isnt a financial decision as [much as] a career decision."

Bauman ideally hoped to sign Ebanks to a multiyear deal for either two or three years. He also said a handful of other teams expressed interest in Ebanks, but never provided an offer sheet. The Lakers will also own his Bird rights, which gives them more leeway than other teams in a few areas, including length of contract and annual raises.

"Its fine. The Lakers are a taxheavy team and were taking this year by year," Bauman said. "Devin knows he has a big year ahead of him. Im happy they have faith in him by giving him a qualifying offer. Hes going to go show he can help the team and get some minutes this season."

Its possible those minutes might increase next season.

The Lakers arent expected to re-sign veteran forward Matt Barnes. Its possible the Lakers could exercise the amnesty clause on Metta World Peace, whom Bauman also represents. But he said conversations with General Manager Mitch Kupchak earlier this season lead him to believe thats unlikely. Still, World Peaces $15-million contract will expire after the 2013-14 season.

The uncertainty regarding playing time played a huge part in Ebanks at least showing openness in exploring other options.

He started four games to open the season but slid down the depth chart behind World Peace and Matt Barnes. From Jan. 3 to April 6, Ebanks played a combined five minutes through 34 games. He even appeared in three games for the D-Fenders, the Lakers' Development League affiliate. Still, Ebanks averaged four points on 41.6% shooting and 2.3 rebounds in 16.5 minutes in the regular season and showed some growth in unexpected promotions.

Ebanks started at shooting guard for seven games in April while Kobe Bryant sat out with a left shin injury, averaging 6.14 points on 48.71% shooting in 25.2 minutes a game. On April 22 against Oklahoma City, Ebanks suddenly entered the game after World Peace was ejected for elbowing James Harden and Barnes sprained his right ankle. Ebanks made two steals in the final minute of the second overtime while holding Kevin Durant to five-of-19 shooting. Ebanks also started at small forward during World Peace's seven-game suspension, scoring in double digits in three of those contests.

"They wont make promises on that kind of stuff," Bauman said about playing time. "But we wouldnt be signing the qualifying offer if we didnt feel Devin didnt have a home here and able to carve out minutes and a role on a team. Its not a money thing. The money would be relatively equal anywhere."

Courtesy of www.latimes.com


Jerryd Bayless agrees to terms with Memphis Grizzlies - by Eurobasket News

The Memphis Grizzlies are set to bring in scoring guard Jerryd Bayless (6'3''-PG-88, college: Arizona) after agreeing to terms with the former Toronto Raptor, ESPN.com reports, citing sources with knowledge of the deal.

Bayless will fill the role previously held by O.J. Mayo, who is expected to sign with another team. Bayless' acquisition was made possible when the Raptors unexpectedly pulled their qualifying offer to him and made him an unrestricted free agent.

The deal will become official Wednesday, ESPN.com reports.

Bayless averaged a career-high 11.4 points in 31 games last season, his fourth in the NBA.

Courtesy of http://aol.sportingnews.com


Rookie John Jenkins signs with Atlanta Hawks - by Eurobasket News

John Jenkins (6'4''-G-91, college: Vanderbilt) and his jump shot made a good first impression with the Atlanta Hawks.

Jenkins signed his rookie contract with the Hawks minutes before joining Tuesday's opening of the team's rookie camp.

The sharp-shooting rookie made a good first impression on coach Larry Drew.

"He's a guy we're really looking to come in here and put the ball in the basket," Drew said. "I mean, that's what he does. He's one of the best I've seen in quite some time as far as shooting the basketball."

Jenkins led the Southeastern Conference in scoring two straight years at Vanderbilt.

The 6-foot-4 Jenkins can compete for substantial playing time or even a starting job at shooting guard after the Hawks traded All-Star Joe Johnson to the Brooklyn Nets for five players and a draft pick last week. The Hawks also have traded small forward Marvin Williams to Utah for guard Devin Harris.

The trades are expected to become official on Wednesday.

The Hawks' offseason makeover may soon include the addition of free-agent guard Lou Williams.

Williams said on his (at)TeamLou23 Twitter feed Tuesday he is headed to Atlanta.

Williams posted "ATL... LOUWILLVILLE.. happy to be apart of a team thats similar to the Sixers.. Young, athletic, and hardworking."

The 6-foot-1 Williams is undersized but played both guard positions with the Sixers. He opted out of the final year of his contract with Philadelphia. He was runner-up to Oklahoma City's James Harden for NBA's sixth man of the year award after he averaged a career-best 14.9 points per game last season.

The Hawks have Jeff Teague as the returning starter at point guard. Teague, Harris and Williams provide an apparent surplus at point guard which could be an indication new Hawks general manager Danny Ferry is interested in another trade.

Ferry made a brief appearance at Tuesday's practice but soon left, holding his cellphone to his ear.

"We're still involved in talks," Ferry told The Associated Press.

Williams played at South Gwinnett High in the Atlanta area and committed to sign with the University of Georgia before he opted to enter the 2005 NBA draft.

Williams' agent, Leon Rose, did not immediately return messages to the AP.

Williams' experience could allow the Hawks to slowly develop Jenkins, who was the No. 23 overall selection in the draft.

"I'm not sure what is going to happen," Jenkins said when asked how the Johnson trade could impact his rookie season. "All I can control is what I can do every day, and that's work hard."

Drew said Jenkins must improve on defense.

"He is a super kid. He comes from a great program," Drew said. "When you talk to him, you can just hear how bad he wants it. He's a guy that really works hard.

"As I told him, I'm going to challenge him. Everybody knows he's capable of making shots. Everybody knows when he's on the floor, you can't leave him. But defensively he's got to get better and he knows that."

The Hawks' second-round pick, forward Mike Scott of Virginia, also participated in Monday's first day of the rookie camp.

Two former Atlanta draft picks, guard-forward Pape Sy and forward-center Keith Benson, also are on the Hawks' rookie team that will play a five-game summer league schedule in Las Vegas, beginning Friday.

"It gives us an opportunity to see these guys play in game-like conditions," Drew said.

"The two guys we drafted, certainly we're looking to overload these guys because they're going to be guys who are going to be in training camp and on our team. We have to give them as much as we can so we can get them on the same page as fast as we can."

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com


Bucks sign first-round draft pick Henson - by Eurobasket News

The Bucks announced Tuesday that they had signed first-round draft pick John Henson (6'11''-F-90, college: N.Carolina) to a multiyear contract. Henson was the 14th overall pick in last month's NBA draft.

Henson, a 6-foot-11 power forward, joins Milwaukee after a decorated three-year career at the University of North Carolina, where he averaged 10.3 points and 8.1 rebounds in 109 career contests. He leaves North Carolina as the Tar Heels' all-time leader in blocked shots per game (2.56). The 6-foot-10 forward also ranks 12th all-time in ACC annals in blocks.

The Greensboro, N.C., native is a two-time ACC Defensive Player of the Year (2011, 2012), as well as a first-team all-ACC performer as a junior, when he averaged 13.7 points, 8.1 rebounds and 2.6 blocks per game.

Henson will play for the Bucks in the 2012 NBA summer league in Las Vegas. The Bucks have a five-game schedule in the summer league and begin play at 9:30 p.m. July 16 against New Orleans.

Courtesy of www.foxsportswisconsin.com


Clippers sign Blake Griffin to 5-year extension - by Eurobasket News

The Los Angeles Clippers have signed All-Star forward Blake Griffin (6'10''-F-89, college: Oklahoma) to a five-year contract extension that could be worth up to $95 million.

The team announced the deal late Tuesday night.

The deal could keep Griffin, who could opt out after four years, in a Clippers uniform until 2018. He will earn $7.2 million next season.

"Happy to officially sign my extension to (hashtag)clippernation for 5 more years. Can't wait. Thanks for all the support," Griffin tweeted.

Teammate Chris Paul retweeted Griffin and added, "Yessirrrrr CONGRATS BG!!!"

Griffin averaged 20.7 points, 10.9 rebounds and 3.2 assists in 66 games last season, helping the Clippers to a 40-26 recordtheir first winning season since 2005-06 and their first playoff berth since then, as well. They beat Memphis in the first round, with Griffin averaging 18.0 points and 6.4 rebounds, before losing to San Antonio in the conference semifinals.

Griffin has been training with the U.S. Olympic basketball team in Las Vegas in preparation for the London Games that begin July 27.

Under the NBA's new collective bargaining agreement, players coming off their rookie-scale contract are eligible to sign for 30 percent of the salary cap if voted to start in two All-Star games, are named to an All-NBA team twice or are named the most valuable player. Every team is allowed one designated player who can get a five-year maximum extension on his rookie contract.

Courtesy of www.ldnews.com


Nets near contract agreement with Brook Lopez - by Eurobasket News

Restricted free-agent center Brook Lopez (7'0''-C/F-88, college: Stanford) is progressing toward an agreement for a maximum contract with the Brooklyn Nets, league sources told Yahoo! Sports.

Nets president Billy King and Lopezs agent, Arn Tellem, are finalizing the length of the deal four years for $58 million, or five years for $78 million and ironing out protections on the back end to account for a right foot that Lopez broke twice in the past year, sources said.

As close as the Nets and Lopez are on a deal, several sources wouldn't rule out the possibility of Lopez still signing an offer sheet with another team for the full four-year, $58 million maximum contract if the final details are unable to be worked out. The Charlotte Bobcats have shown the most interest in signing Lopez to a max sheet, sources said. The Nets would undoubtedly match, but signing the offer sheet would be a way for Lopez to avoid any partial guarantees based on games that the Nets might want in his deal.

King is scheduled to travel to Los Angeles on Wednesday to work on completing the deal with Tellem.

Brooklyn needs Lopez as the centerpiece of a sign-and-trade deal to acquire Orlandos Dwight Howard, but is running out of time waiting for the Magic to make a decision on where they want to trade him, sources said. The Nets need to add four free agents into a deal for Howard, and convincing all of them to be a part of a complicated sign-and-trade deal much beyond Wednesdays end to the leagues moratorium on transactions becomes increasingly more unrealistic every day.

Once Lopez signs the deal, he cant be traded until December.

Orlando has refocused its trade talks for Howard with the Los Angeles Lakers and Houston Rockets, and the Nets are starting to believe that Magic general manager Rob Hennigan simply wants to do a deal elsewhere, sources said. Clearly, the Nets are pushing hard on Lopezs deal to apply pressure to Orlando, but theres nothing left for them to offer Orlando that they havent already made available to them.

The Nets are offering the Magic three first-round picks, and a fourth that it believes it can gain upon moving guard MarShon Brooks in a trade, sources said.

The Houston Rockets were aggressively shopping players on Tuesday, including forward Luis Scola, in an attempt to create more salary-cap space and gain another first-round pick to fulfill Orlandos wants for a Howard deal, sources said.

After not missing a game in his first three NBA seasons, Lopez played only five last season after breaking his foot twice. Nevertheless, doctors have fully cleared him to return for the start of training camp.

Courtesy of Yahoo! Sports


Deron Williams officially re-signs with Brooklyn Nets - by Eurobasket News

The Brooklyn Nets have officially re-signed point guard Deron Williams (6'3''-PG-84, college: Illinois), Nets president Billy King announced in a statement.

Williams took to Twitter shortly after signing his five-year, $98.75 million deal to show fans he made it official on his Apple iPad.

"I am really excited to be able to officially say that Brooklyn is home, Williams said in a statement. It is an incredible time to play in Brooklyn and to be a part of this organization, the first sports team to call Brooklyn home in over 50 years.

The Nets intended all along to have Williams be the face of the team as the franchise prepares to move to the new Barclays Center in Brooklyn. They were rewarded for taking a chance on trading for Williams, even though he was on the brink of free agency and could have chosen to go elsewhere.

We are obviously thrilled that Deron will lead the Nets into our new home in Brooklyn, King said in a statement. Deron is in my opinion the top point guard in the NBA. With his leadership and guidance on and off the court, the fans of Brooklyn should be proud.

Williams averaged 21.0 points, 8.7 assists, 3.3 rebounds and 1.2 steals with little help in a losing season in Brooklyn.

He was convinced to return by the Nets ability to add talent. Forward Gerald Wallace re-signed for $40 million and guard Joe Johnson was acquired in a trade with the Atlanta Hawks. The final piece could come in the re-signing of young center Brook Lopez, who the team is currently engaged in talks with. Lopez is a restricted free agent.

I believe in the team and what we are going to be able to accomplish on the court, as well as in the community, Williams said. My family and I have come to know New York and the more we do, the more we love it. I look forward to going to London to represent the United States in the Olympics and then coming back to Brooklyn to open Barclays Center."

Courtesy of http://aol.sportingnews.com


Bulls: It's official, Brewer and Watson gone - by Eurobasket News

About the only definitive result from a very fluid day is that, as expected, Ronnie Brewer (6'7''-G-85, college: Arkansas) won't play for the Bulls next season at his $4.37 million team option and C.J. Watson (6'2''-G-84, college: Tennessee) also won't be back at his $3.2 million salary.

Tuesday's deadline to pick up those options came and went, although Brewer said general manager Gar Forman told his agent he might be re-signed at a reduced salary.

"I will definitely test the market, though," Brewer said in a phone interview from his basketball camp in Arkansas. "Whatever team I end up going to, I know I'm going to have another improved year."

The Bulls explored trade possibilities for both players in an attempt to turn their non-guaranteed deals into assets, league sources said. They are doing the same with Kyle Korver, who has been told a resolution on his $5 million option will be finalized by Sunday, sources said.

The Bulls are optimistic about the trade market for Korver, sources said. There are no plans for Watson to return.

The moratorium on free-agent signings lifted at 11:01 p.m. Tuesday. However, Omer Asik's three-year, $24 million to $25 million offer sheet with the Rockets can't be signed until Houston completes a sign-and-trade deal with the Knicks involving Marcus Camby and also sends Kyle Lowry to the Raptors.

Sources said the Rockets' pursuit of either Andrew Bynum or Dwight Howard via trade won't affect Asik's situation.

The Bulls will have three days to match Asik's offer sheet once it is signed. Though management has agonized over the decision and hasn't shared its definitive plans, multiple league sources are under the impression they will match. Brewer said he heard Joakim Noah's lingering ankle issues are a factor in the decision.

Though Kirk Hinrich has agreed to a two-year deal that is expected to be in the $6 million range, his signing might not become official until the Bulls have proper resolution on all their various machinations.

Brewer had no hard feelings over the expected decision.

"They just said they're going in a different direction and might try to sign me back once the dust settles with different trades and whatnot at a lower salary so they won't go over the luxury tax or maybe something with a sign-and-trade situation," he said. "Who knows? My agent expressed to Gar that I appreciated the opportunity he gave me in Chicago. I enjoyed my time there.

"Coach (Tom Thibodeau) is one of the best coaches in the NBA, hands down. We've had a good group of guys with great chemistry in the locker room. It wouldn't be out of the picture to go back, but I have to give other teams options to make an offer."

Layups: Brewer, on whether the Bulls could have won the East if they had stayed healthy: "My first year, we came up short by not executing down the stretch against the Heat in the conference finals. Year 2, you never know where we could have gone if (Derrick) Rose and Joakim had stayed healthy. I liked our chances." Jonny Flynn, the sixth pick in the 2009 draft, will attend one of the summer-league camp practices at the Berto Center this weekend, sources said.

Courtesy of www.chicagotribune.com


2012 NBA Orlando Summer League: Day Two - by Eurobasket News

Day 2 of action from the Orlando Summer League has come to an end, and there are a few players that are going to put their prospective teams in tough positions when looking to fill out roster spots.

Some relatively unknown playersor players who have fallen off the map recentlyhave made waves in the first two games of competition.

On the other side of the spectrum, there are a handful of guys who could be playing themselves out of a roster spot come decision time. Here is a rundown of each game.


Philadelphia 76ers (80) vs. Utah Jazz (84)

Jazz guard Alec Burks (6'6''-G-91, college: Colorado) was absolutely brilliant against the Sixers in Tuesday's game. He scored 31 points on 10-of-14 shooting in just over 29 minutes. Burks didn't turn the ball over once, which is equally as impressive as his point total.

After seeing just 15 minutes a game last season for the Jazz, he's making a compelling case for much more floor time next year.

Enes Kanter (6'10''-C-92, college: Kentucky) scored 10 points on 5-of-9 shooting and pulled down eight rebounds. He's not making the impact that a No. 3 overall pick should make, but he's making progress nonetheless.

After scoring 15 points on Monday, Sixers guard Jacob Pullen poured in 23 today on 57 percent shooting to lead his team. He's also showing he can shoot from behind the arc. After going 3-of-6 against the Indiana Pacers, he went 4-of-7 the second go 'round.

Justin Holiday scored 16 points in 25 minutes, while Moe Harkless didn't show much, scoring two points in just under 10 minutes on the court.


Indiana Pacers (78) vs. Oklahoma City Thunder (74)

Lance Stephenson (6'5''-F-90, college: Cincinnati) has averaged just 2.5 points per game throughout his NBA career, but he far surpassed that total when he led all scorers with 28 on 10-of-14 shooting in his latest summer league effort. He also added seven assists for the Pacers.

Miles Plumlee (6'10''-PF-88, agency: Priority Sports, college: Duke) scored 14 points in 26 minutes and second-rounder Orlando Johnson went 0-of-10 from the field en route to scoring just four points.

Lazar Hayward led Thunder scorers with 14 points on 7-for-16 shooting, while Reggie Jackson shot just 33 percent, scoring 13 points.

The big story was Perry Jones III. The No. 28 overall pick in the 2012 NBA draft left the game midway through the four quarter with a left ankle injury and did not return.


Detroit Pistons (79) vs. Orlando Magic (74)

Austin Daye (6'11''-F-88, college: Gonzaga) posted the highest scoring total of the game with 24 points on 8-of-10 shooting (3-of-3 from three) to lead the Pistons to victory.

After scoring 18 points in the league opener on Monday, Kim English scored just six on Tuesday on 2-of-8 shooting versus Orlando. He's not as concerning as Andre Drummond, though, who contributed three points and three boards in 22 minutes.

For the Magic, Andrew Nicholson (6'9''-PF-89, agency: Priority Sports, college: St.Bonaventure) scored 13 points on 5-of-11 shooting to bring his summer league average to 18.5 over two games, and also grabbed six boards.

Kyle O'Quinn had 11 points and six rebounds, while Justin Harper had a miserable 0-of-7 shooting night from behind the arc for the Magic.


Brooklyn Nets (73) vs. Boston Celtics (82)

Jared Sullinger (6'9''-PF-92, college: Ohio St.) certainly wasn't as effective as the day before, but the first-round pick scored eight points and pulled down 12 rebounds. He went 3-of-12 from the field, but it's encouraging to see that he can still contribute when his offensive game isn't at its best.

Jonathan Gibson (6'0''-PG-87, college: N.Mexico St.) led the Celtics with 17 points on 5-of-7 shooting (3-of-5 from three), and Fab Melo was semi-irrelevant for the second game in a row, scoring zero points and pulling down five rebounds.

Al Thornton scored 16 points on 3-of-13 shooting (10-of-11 from the stripe) to bring his summer league average to 17 points per game after two contests.

MarShon Brooks put up 13 points and four assists for the Nets, including a pretty bounce pass that led to a Tyshawn Taylor (10 points) throwdown on a break.

Courtesy of www.bleacherreport.com


Grant Hill narrows free agent options to Heat, Thunder and Lakers - by Eurobasket News

The Los Angeles Lakers are currently in the middle of extensive trade talks with the Orlando Magic to acquire Dwight Howard (6'11''-C-85). There's no telling at this point whether or not the Lakers will land Howard in a proposed three-team trade with the Houston Rockets, but it remains a high priority.

In the meantime, the Lakers will begin to sign free agents as of July 11 with Steve Nash, Darius Morris and Devin Ebanks currently on the list of priorities. Another option for the Lakers may be veteran Grant Hill (6'8''-F-72, college: Duke) with the 39-year-old narrowing his free agent options to the Miami Heat, Oklahoma City Thunder and the Lakers according to David Aldridge of NBA.com via Twitter:

Grant Hill still considering Heat, Thunder, as well as Lakers, per source.

With the Lakers bench in desperate need of some upgrades in multiple positions, Hill is an ideal candidate to help improve the offense and defense. Along with Hills skills still at a high level, the veteran is also very close with Nash and the superstar point guard has said that he will try to recruit his former teammate to the Lakers.

Now that Rashard Lewis has agreed to sign with the Miami Heat, Hill may narrow his free agent search that much more with the Lakers potentially becoming a much stronger possibility. The Thunder will almost certainly remain in the hunt, but the Lakers may have the edge with Nash and possibly Bell being added to the roster.

Courtesy of www.examiner.com


Toronto Raptors sign rookie Terrence Ross - by Eurobasket News

The Toronto Raptors announced Tuesday they have signed guard Terrence Ross (6'6''-G-91, college: Washington) from the University of Washington to his rookie scale contract. He is under contract through the 2013-14 season, with two team option years to follow. The Raptors selected Ross with the eighth overall pick of the 2012 NBA Draft.

All players selected in the first round of the NBA Draft are guaranteed to receive a contract. So, this signing is standard.

Ross, 6-foot-7, 197 pounds, was a first-team All-Pac-12 selection last season as a sophomore. He averaged 16.4 points and 6.4 rebounds, and ranked among Pac-12 leaders in eight categories including: points (4th), rebounds (6th), three-pointers per game (2.1, 8th) and blocks (0.9, 13th). Ross averaged 25.0 points in four games during Washingtons run to the NIT semifinals. He shot a perfect 15-of-15 from the free throw line and led UW shooters from three point range, making 15-of-37 attempts (.405). He posted a career-high 32 points with eight rebounds versus Northwestern in the NIT.

As a freshman, Ross made his first career starts in the Pac-10 Tournament, averaging 15.3 points and 2.7 rebounds, and shooting 52.8 percent from the field to earn a spot on the five-man All-Pac-10 Tournament team. He tallied a team-high 19 points versus North Carolina in the NCAA Tournament.

The Raptors open their five-game NBA Summer League schedule on the campus of the University of Nevada-Las Vegas on Friday against the Houston Rockets.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com


Blazers officially announce signing of Spanish F Victor Claver - by Eurobasket News

The Portland Trail Blazers have officially announced the signing of Spanish forward Victor Claver (6'10''-F/C-88), who was selected in the first round of the 2009 NBA Draft and spent last season playing for Valencia in Spain's ACB league.

Here's the press release.

The Portland Trail Blazers have signed forward Victor Claver, it was announced today by General Manager Neil Olshey. Per team policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

A native of Valencia, Spain, Claver joins the Trail Blazers three years after the team selected him with the 22nd overall pick in the first round of the 2009 NBA Draft.

"Victor is a player with a high basketball IQ who will come in as a good complement to our roster," said Olshey. "He defends well for his size, has a nice shooting touch, and we look forward to having him on board."

A member of the Spanish national basketball team that will compete in the 2012 London Olympics this summer, Claver (6-10, 235) joins the Trail Blazers from Valencia in the Spanish ACB League, where he averaged 8.7 points, 3.5 rebounds, 1.3 assists, 1.22 steals and 25.8 minutes in 37 ACB and Eurocup games. In six seasons with Valencia, Claver posted averages of 7.7 points, 3.7 rebounds, 1.2 assists, 0.99 steals and 22.2 minutes.

Claver, 23, won the 2010 Eurocup Rising Star Award, an honor given to the most outstanding young player in the competition.

Courtesy of www.blazersedge.com


Hawks agree to terms with free-agent guard Lou Williams - by Eurobasket News

The Hawks and free-agent guard Louis Williams (6'3''-PG-86) have agreed to a multiyear contract, according to a person with knowledge of the agreement.

Terms of the deal were not immediately known but the Hawks likely will sign Williams by using part of their mid-level salary-cap exception. The person with knowledge of the deal said the contract would allow the Hawks to maintain the salary-cap flexibility they gained by recently agreeing to trade Joe Johnson and Marvin Williams.

Williams opted out of the final year of his contract with Philadelphia, which was to pay him $5.4 million in 2012-13.

The deal cant become official until the NBAs moratorium on most transactions ends Wednesday.

Williams, 25, is a former star at South Gwinnett High school, where he was a two-time Mr. Basketball winner and a McDonalds All-American. After committing to Georgia, he decided to declare for the 2005 draft and was selected by Philadelphia in the second round. He played in 455 games with Philadelphia, mostly as a reserve.

Williams figures to fill a similar bench-scoring role with the Hawks. Once Atlanta completes the trades involving Johnson and Williams and secures a buyout of Jordan Farmar, the team will have five guards on the roster in addition to Williams: Jeff Teague, Devin Harris, Anthony Morrow, John Jenkins and DeShawn Stevenson.

Williams led the Sixers in scoring last season with 14.9 points in 26.3 minutes per game and posted team-best PER marks in the past two seasons. He finished second to Thunder guard James Harden in voting for the 2011-12 NBA Sixth Man Award.

Williams is smallish combo guard whos a volume shooter with a so-so jump shot. But he manages to be a fairly efficient scorer because of a very good free-throw rate. Last season Williams ranked sixth in scoring rate among point guards who played at least 25 minutes per game.

The Sixers allowed 3.38 fewer points per 100 possessions with Williams on the bench. Williams had a 12.1 opposing PER against against point guards and 11.9 against shooting guards.

Courtesy of http://blogs.ajc.com


Jeremy Lin upset at Knicks - by Eurobasket News

The New York Knicks may have to patch things up with Jeremy Lin (6'3''-PG-88, college: Harvard).

According to a report by the New York Daily News, Lin is upset that the Knicks didn't offer him a new contract before the Houston Rockets came calling with a lucraticve offer sheet.

Lin has verbally agreed to sign a four-year offer sheet with the Rockets. The deal reportedly is worth $28.8 million, with $10.2 million coming in the first two seasons and over $9 million in each of the last two.

Despite the Knicks insisting they would match the Rockets' offer, Lin still feels slighted, according to the Daily News.

"He was surprised that the Knicks didn't make the first move," a league source told the paper. "They know they've got to mend some fences with him because he believes what the Rockets have told him, that the Knicks weren't as interested as they are."

The Rockets had Lin in training camp last season, but waived him because they already had Kyle Lowry and Goran Dragic on their roster. Now that they've traded Lowry to Toronto, and with Dragic headed to Phoenix, Houston is trying to get Lin back.

However, Lin is almost certain to return to the Knicks, who can match the offer as early as Wednesday.

"They will match any offer on Lin up to 1 billion dollars," a source told ESPN.com's Marc Stein.

Lin made $788,000 last season when he averaged 14.6 points, 6.2 assists and 3.1 rebounds in 35 games with 25 starts before his campaign was cut short because of surgery to repair torn cartilage in his knee.

"What he has to learn is that it's not personal," the source told the Daily News."The Knicks merely played by the rules.''

Lin, who went undrafted out of Harvard, became a sensation with a remarkable stretch in February, scoring at least 20 points in nine of 10 games. A high point of that span came Feb. 10, when he scored 38 points and had seven assists in a 92-85 win over the Lakers.

Lin's expected signing will highlight a busy offseason for the Knicks, who have reached an agreement with veteran playmaker Jason Kidd to back up Lin while reaching a sign-and-trade agreement to bring center Marcus Camby back to New York. J.R. Smith and Steve Novak also are expected to ink new deals.

Courtesy of ESPN


Joel Freeland to sign 3-year deal with Blazers, according to report - by Eurobasket News

Joel Freeland (6'10''-F-87) will sign a 3-year deal with the NBA team Portland Trail Blazers, according to Tubasket. Reportedly, the player informed Unicaja Malaga yesterday that he plans to buyout his contract for the NBA (1.5M). Freeland will fly to Portland this week for medicals tests and after that he will finalize buyout with Unicaja.
Joel Freeland was 30th overall pick at 2006 NBA Draft selected by the Blazers. Last three seasons the player spent with Unicaja. In the latest one he had 12.8 ppg and 6.7 rpg in 14 Euroleague games. The player also added 12.9 ppg and 7.5 rpg for 31 games in Liga Endesa. Freeland had slightly better numbers in 2010/11. Before Unicaja, he spent three years with Gran Canaria. Joel Freeland will play for the British National Team at 2012 Olympics.


Rashard Lewis adds to Miami Heat's riches - by Eurobasket News

The Miami Heat are expected to sign forward Rashard Lewis (6'10''-F-79) when the NBA's moratorium is lifted on Wednesday, multiple outlets are reporting.

Lewis was traded from the Washington Wizards to the New Orleans Hornets last month. The Hornets subsequently bought Lewis out for $14 million. Lewis will sign with Miami for the $1.35 million veterans minimum, Fox Sports Chris Tomasson reports.

The Heat on Wednesday are also expected to formally introduce Ray Allen, Lewis' former teammate with the now defunct Seattle Sonics, as a new member of the team.

Allen, the NBAs all-time leading 3-point shooter, and Lewis, who has a career mark of 38.8 percent from behind the arc, give the Heat two deft outside shooters for their title defense next season. Theyve had guys like Mike Miller and James Jones in the fold, but Allen and Lewis figure to provide consistency along the perimeter that will make the Heat even scarier.

Courtesy of http://aol.sportingnews.com


Warriors trade Dorell Wright to 76ers - by Eurobasket News

It's fitting that the NBA free-agent signing moratorium came to a close late Tuesday night as the league descended on the Las Vegas Strip.

The Warriors took their first gamble of the free-agency period, agreeing to trade starting small forward Dorell Wright (6'9''-F-85) to Philadelphia for the rights to 28-year-old Bosnian forward/center Edin Bavcic (6'11''-F/C-84, agency: Beo Basket) and financial flexibility, according to league sources.

"Per team policy, we don't comment on trade speculation," Warriors general manager Bob Myers said.

The trade is expected to go through without any hiccups, but it is contingent on Philadelphia using its amnesty clause on Elton Brand. The Warriors don't have any plans to bring Bavcic to the United States, but the transaction rids the Warriors of a glut of small forwards, gives them a $4.1 million trade exception, and affords the ability to use both the mid-level and bi-annual exceptions in free agency without butting up against the luxury tax.

Basically, it gives the Warriors a seat at the poker table after 10 days of folding to teams with bigger stacks of chips.

The Warriors' top priority during free agency is re-signing Brandon Rush, a restricted free agent who became a valuable sixth man last season. The team also wants to use its exception money to find a backup guard to Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson and someone to log minutes behind power forward David Lee.

"The mandate from ownership is to be aggressive, but we also have to balance that by being prudent," Myers said. "We're willing to spend on a difference-maker who moves the needle for us, possible even into the luxury tax. That player would really have to help us in a meaningful way, though."

Myers said he has had a number of free-agent talks and one-to-one and multi-team trade discussions, but they haven't netted any results despite some that "got to the goal line." Even with the new financial flexibility, Myers doesn't expect an imminent signing as players officially could start inking deals overnight.

The Warriors kicked the tires on point guards Jason Kidd, Andre Miller and Kirk Hinrich, but got none. Brandon Roy, who missed last season because of knee trouble, chose Minnesota, which was willing to pay $10.4 million for two years.

The Warriors were interested in forwards Darrell Arthur and Reggie Evans, still might be in the running for Jordan Hill, who seems to be down to Minnesota or the Lakers, and are finalists against Charlotte for Antawn Jamison and J.J. Hickson.

"On a couple of deals, we were close and we worked hard on them," Myers said. "The results aren't there, but I can promise you that the days have been very long. We're working tirelessly to accomplish something, but most of the time, these deals don't happen for a variety of reasons."

The Warriors are hamstrung by having only the mid-level exception (about $5 million) and the bi-annual exception (about $2 million) to offer. They also are trying to sign one- or two-year deals, because their salary cap could allow them to make a huge free-agency play in 2014.

They believe that after the teams offering more money and longer deals break the bank, there will be players who match the Warriors' needs still available. Plus, they'll be able to see if Rush signs an offer sheet with an opposing team and have budgeted the money to match.

"A ton of guys are getting renounced, and that floods the market with unrestricted guys who will probably get deals before the remaining restricted free agents," Myers said. "We can make deals independent of Brandon, but we're keeping one eye on him at all times. We're going to be aggressive and move forward with free agency."

Rush is one of the reasons that Wright was expendable. Rush, Richard Jefferson and rookies Harrison Barnes and Draymond Green give the Warriors a good stable of small forwards.

There was expected to be a better market for Wright, who defends multiple positions and shoots corner three-pointers. The new collective bargaining agreement, however, has made some teams more cautious about taking on salaries. Some demanded the Warriors include a future draft pick as compensation for taking on Wright's contract.

Courtesy of www.sfgate.com


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


Iowa rewards McCaffery with 7-year deal; postseason goals - by Eurobasket News

Iowa basketball coach Fran McCaffery said Tuesday that a 2013 NCAA tournament bid for his team is "a legitimate goal, yes. It's definitely achievable."

If the Hawkeyes get the school's first NCAA berth since 2006 next March, McCaffery's new seven-year contract released by the university Tuesday will get even sweeter.

McCaffery, 53, will make $1.3 million next season, according to terms of a deal that runs through June 30, 2019, and escalates annually.

That figure will jump to $1.7 million in 2013-14 and escalate to $2 million by 2018-19 if Iowa reaches the NCAA tournament.

If Iowa doesn't make the NCAA tournament, McCaffery would receive $1.5 million in 2013-14, a figure that would escalate to $1.8 million in 2018-19. If Iowa makes the NCAA tournament at any time during the course of the contract, McCaffery would get a $200,000 bump the following season.

Additional compensation is possible if the team reaches certain competitive and academic benchmarks written into the contract

When ESPN basketball analyst Dick Vitale came to Cedar Rapids for a speaking engagement the first week of June, he said he sensed that change was in the air after Iowa basketball had steadily lost national relevance over the past decade.

No national ranking or NCAA bid since 2006. No first division Big Ten finish since 2007.

"But I got a real feeling that there was an uptick," Vitale said. "You could feel the energy from the people. It's been awhile since they felt this way."

Fran Fraschilla, a former college coach at Manhattan, St. John's and New Mexico, said the sense of progress is key.

"So much in building a program today is in positive momentum," said Fraschilla, now an analyst for ESPN. "Despite the record (just one game over .500 last season), which is moving in the right direction, the bigger picture is there's a perception that there's positive momentum.

"I see the contract as both a reward for coach McCaffery and a tool for building the program."

There is a $2 million lump-sum buyout clause if McCaffery leaves for another program. That sum decreases by $250,000 annually.

"When I came here my hope was to finish my career here," McCaffery said.

He added: "This is not a stepping-stone situation. It was never viewed that way. It shouldn't be viewed that way. There's no place higher than the Big Ten, unless you have somebody that has always aspired to coach in the NBA, which I don't. I want to coach in college."

The new deal replaces the original six-year contract McCaffery signed after accepting the Iowa job in March of 2010. The original contract was worth $1.1 million in 2010-11 and was scheduled to escalate to $1.35 million by 2015-16.

"We've got some tangible results and I think there's a tremendous positive feeling around the entire program as we move forward," McCaffery said. "We just want to keep building on that momentum."

Iowa's record improved to 11-20 and 18-17 in McCaffery's first two seasons. The Hawkeyes recorded four victories over Top 25 teams and reached the second round of the NIT, the university's first postseason bid since 2006.

Athletic director Gary Barta and McCaffery told the Des Moines Register in May that a new deal was in the works.

Barta said in a statement that he was "thrilled with where Fran is taking our program. He has done an outstanding job, in all phases. We are pleased that the victory total has increased in the last two seasons. But, as important, Fran has demonstrated a total commitment in all phases of the program, including recruiting, community involvement and commitment to academic performance."

McCaffery loses one starter, guard Matt Gatens, and brings in a five-member recruiting class that has been ranked in the top 20 nationally.

Though progress has been made the past two seasons, McCaffery said there's a mandate for more.

"But we want more, our fans want more," McCaffery said. "We're not satisfied with where we are today."

Courtesy of www.usatoday.com


Josiah Turner reneges on SMU transfer, will turn pro - by Eurobasket News

Talented point guard Josiah Turner (6'3''-G-92), whose freshman year at Arizona was interrupted multiple times by disciplinary issues, has decided against resuming his college basketball career at SMU and instead will attempt to begin playing professionally.

Turner had been recruited as a transfer to SMU by new coach Larry Brown and his staff, but Turner instead will look for professional opportunities in the D-League or internationally.

"I had to step back and reevaluate what my main goal and my dream was," Turner told Yahoo! Sports on Tuesday night. "My dream is to be a professional athlete in the NBA, and I think this is what's going to bring me closer to it. In college you get your degree and everything, but going pro is getting me closer to my dream and what I want to do in life."

A 6-3 point guard from Sacramento, Turner was a top-20 prospect entering his senior year in high school. He was dismissed from the team at Sacramento High partway through his final season, though, and transferred to a prep school in North Carolina to complete his high school career.

Early in his freshman season at Arizona, Turner was withheld from the starting lineup of a game against Duquesne, reportedly for arriving late to a practice, and was benched when the Wildcats played Ball State in December. After missing another practice, he was left home from the Wildcats' trip to Florida, where they lost in overtime.

Turner started 15 of the teams final 17 regular-season games and was averaging 6.8 points and 2.4 assists. Prior to the Pacific-12 Tournament, however, coach Sean Miller suspended Turner indefinitelya punishment that quite possibly cost the Wildcats an NCAA Tournament bid. Turner remained suspended for the team's brief appearance in the NIT.

"I am disappointed in Josiah for his actions," Miller said in a statement issued at the time. "Unfortunately, this suspension comes at a time of great excitement and opportunity for our team. However, the standards of our program will not be compromised under any circumstances. Hopefully, Josiah will learn a valuable lesson from this experience."

When it became apparent he would not be welcomed back into the Arizona program, Turner announced he would seek transfer opportunities and eventually chose SMU. Subsequent to that announcement, Turner was arrested by University of Arizona campus police on suspicion of extreme DUI. Turner told Yahoo! that he had issues with both alcohol and marijuana while attending Arizona.

"My maturity level now is way higher than it was when I was in Arizona," Turner said. "I was young. I made mistakes. I just learned a lot from last year thinking about where I could be at right now and thinking about the things I did last year. It was all stupid."

Turners departure from college basketball is being portrayed by some as a significant blow to Browns efforts to resurrect the SMU program, but that seems to be something of an overreaction. It does not take into account what challenges Turner might have provided to his new coaches, nor the opportunity for the Mustangs to recruit another point guard prior to the 2013-14 season.

Given that Turner changed high schools five times, transferred after a single college season and failed to follow through on the commitment he made to Brown only a couple months back, its hard to imagine SMU is not better off seeking someone else to lead its attack.

Courtesy of http://aol.sportingnews.com


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


Bakare - The Basketball Whisperer - by Iwedi Ojinmah

The man dancing is in an obvious state of euphoria. You see it in his eyes as well as in the cheeky satisfied grin he is wearing. Rivers of sweat dribble down his ebony face as he gyrates to the cheers of his hand-clapping team.

Even in the gaggle of shaved heads and nappy curls his grey plume stands out making him look like the elder statesman one must respect.

His name is Ayodele Bakare.

He is a head basketball coach. The place is Caracas, Venezuela. It is last Sunday night and his team "D Tigers of Nigeria" have just beaten the Dominican Republic to secure the last ticket to the 2012 London Olympic games.

While many Nigerians woke up on Monday morning still pinching themselves in a combination of shock, disbelief and joy, the coach has long envisioned this happy ending. Even before (in a more muted form) he helped take D Tigresses down the same road in 2004, and even when he was also there in 2005 when they won the 2005 FIBA Africa Championship for Women, Bakare tells us he knew then that Nigeria had the potential skill-wise to become a reckoned force.

Over the years Bakare defied the odds and confidently stepped out of the suffocating shadow cast by Football in Nigeria by developing his own sun. Buoyed by the interest in the developing DStv League, he slowly pecked away at disbelief and persistently sold his vision to all who would listen.

He showed glimpses of his work in progress at the World Championships and then in Madagascar in 2011 at the Africa Championship, where Nigeria finished third. These multiple previews finally paid off especially to the Nigerian Americans and others born outside of Nigeria who make up the bulk of his team. They form the cream of the circa 200 professional basketball players Nigeria has.

He gradually lassoed them all in and slowly his dream was no longer just his - it had morphed into theirs.

They now remain the one constant on a team that continuously keeps changing in players. Not only does Bakare keep finding them but he uses them as wisely as an owl. Just count how many players are back from the World Championship team for instance?

Everybody talks about Nigeria's physicality and athleticism, causing many to overlook that it is primarily an excellently coached team as well. The team rarely gets exasperated and will play with anyone till the final whistle. To me that says tons about character and focus, which as we know comes directly from leadership

Even when Ibekwe's shot rattled off the rim against Venezuela and the team lost a game that they should have won, the team refused to sulk and regrouped for her monster test against Lithuania. Again it was Bakare that provided the calming effect of a soothing ointment.

He was everywhere in the papers, over the Internet and on the air.

He told us how D Tigers would still make the quarterfinals and how this would happen and that wouldn't. His confidence in the team is unmatched, which is precisely why D Tigers love him and play for him the way they do. That is why Skinn will trickle through a maze of bodies twice his size and punish them with daft lay ups regardless of the very punishment he gets in the act. It is why egos are checked and everyone is humble. Its why these Tigers now have monster fangs to mirror their leaders belief.

Almost unnoticed, Bakare is not just making history he is also doing it with minimal help. Inconsequential and embarrassing is what I call it when compared to the money spent on Football in Nigeria. It is annoying when you look at the sports revolutions in Cuba in the 80s or more recently in Jamaican track and field.

It is more vexing when we look at the natural potential available for Nigeria to equal such phenomena and become a major player in another big time sport.

Thank God I said ALMOST unnoticed, because more and more people are beginning to notice Nigeria's "Basketball Whisperer" and many are praying, just as I am, that he is allowed and given the opportunity to keep living out his dream.


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


Broderick Gilchrest signs with BC Timba Timisoara - by Eurobasket News

Broderick Gilchrest (182-G-89, college: Idaho St.) signs with BC Timba Timisoara for 2012/2013 season. The American player will debut in Europe.
In 2007-2008 he appeared for Middle Tenn.St. (NCAA) and in 32 games averaged 1.8ppg. In 2009-2010 moved to Idaho St. (NCAA, starting five) and had high 15.5ppg, 2.7rpg, 3.2apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 47.4%, 3PT: 36.7%, FT: 67.2%. In 2010-2011 for Idaho St. (NCAA, starting five) his stats read 15.0ppg, 2.4rpg, 2.2apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 40.4%, 3PT: 32.9%, FT: 70.2%. In March 2012 signed at ACBD Rio Claro (Brazil-Paulista, starting five). He erupted with 31 points in his first game for the team. That time Rio Claro lost an overtime thriller to Jacarei 113:115. Broderick Gilchrest also added 4 rebounds and 3 steals to his points.
Earlier Timba Timisoara announced signing of Bosko Stojakovic for the next season. The team will compete in Division A.


Branko Cuic and Daniel Tudosa move to BC Mures - by Eurobasket News

Branko Cuic (197-G-78) and Daniel Tudosa (181-PG-87) move to BC Mures for the upcoming season. The players officially moved to their new team.
Branko Cuic comes from Timisoara. Last year he played 39 games in Romanian league registering 9.4 ppg, 5.8 rpg and 4.5 apg. Cuic also registered 6.2 ppg, 4.7 rpg and 3.8 apg for 9 games in Balkan league. He helped Timisoara to reach the Romanian league and Cup Finals, but they failed to win the trophy.
Earlier Brano Cuic spent four years with Univ Mobitelco Cluj Napoca. He had 9.9 ppg, 6.7 rpg, 5 apg and 1.8 spg in their last season together, when they won the Romanian league title. Cuic was named to Eurobasket.com All-Romanian League 2nd Team -11 and also to Eurobasket.com Romanian League All-Bosmans Team -11.
Daniel Tudosa is a Romanian Point Guard who played last two seasons for CS Municipal Bucuresti (Div.A). In 2011-2012 his stats read 2.6ppg, 1.2apg.


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


Russia U16 clinched one victory at the International Tournament - by Eurobasket News

Russia U16 clinched one victory at the International Tournament in Zrenjanin. Russia finished with 1-2 record.
Russia outplayed Greece in Day One 74:66. The Russian team looked better in the majority of the game and rightfully clinched the victory.
In Day 2 Ukraine overcame Russia 87:67. Ukrainian side dominated the game and tied both records at 1-1.
Russia lost to Serbia 70:62 in the last day of the competition. The guests looked better in the opening period and grabbed 25-13 at the end of the first period. Serbia responded with 23-12 in the second frame and reduced to 1 point at the halftime. Moreover the Serbian team won the third and the last quarters. They needed 18-12 in the third frame and 16-13 in the last quarter. Stefano Peno led the hosts with 20 points and Djokovic helped with 18 points in this victory.


Aaron Miles stays with Krasnie Krilya - by Eurobasket News

Krasnie Krilya have agreed on terms of new contract with Aaron Miles (186-G-83, college: Kansas). The guard will stay in Samara for another season. Aaron Miles joined Krasnie Krilya at the start of the previous season. He tallied 9.5 points, 4.5 assists, 3.0 rebounds and 3.0 steals per game in EuroChallenge Qualifying Round. In VTB League Aaron Miles posted 9.9 points, 4.2 rebounds, 3.9 assists and 1.8 steals per appearance. The guard also posted 9.5 points, 3.9 rebounds, 6.3 assists and 1.4 steals per game in PBL. He earned Eurobasket.com All-Russian PBL Honourable Mention. Previously Aaron Miles had stints in D-League, Greece, Spain, France and NBA. He earned All-French ProA and All-Greek A1 Leagues Honourable Mentions in 2007 and 2009. Aaron Miles participated at A1 League All-Star Games in 2009 and 2010.


Yaroslav Korolev stays with Lagun Aro - by Eurobasket News

Yaroslav Korolev (206-G/F-87) stays with Lagun Aro for the next season. The Russian player will continue for the Spanish squad. A Spanish-speaking forward with great future has quickness, coordination, ball handling and shooting range. He can play in the 2, 3 and 4 positions, and his future is maybe at the SG.
In 2011-2012 for Lagun Aro Gipuzkoa BC (Spain-ACB) he played only in 4 games and averaged 0.8ppg, 1.3rpg.
Earlier the player was with CB Granada and averaged 8.5ppg, 2.6rpg, FGP: 44.2%, 3PT: 22.4%, FT: 80.7%. In 2009-2010 he played for Albuquerque Thunderbirds (D-League) and showed 11.3ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.3apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 48.6%, 3PT: 43.5%, FT: 75.9%. In Jan.'10 moved to Reno Bighorns (D-League) and after 29 games had 9.9ppg, 5.2rpg, 1.2apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 43.2%, 3PT: 35.5%, FT: 67.3%.
Korolev was selected by Los Angeles Clippers in the NBA draft in 2005. Just turned 18, the player was the 12th choice, but fortune was not at his side during his tour in the best league in the world.


Krasnie Krilya add Viktor Zaryazhko, Ryazan bring Viktor Uskov - by Eurobasket News

Krasnie Krilya add Viktor Zaryazhko (194-PG-92), while Ryazan bring Viktor Uskov (182-G-86) for the upcoming season.
Viktor Zaryazhko, appeared in 2010-2011 for Spartak Vidnoye Moscowskaya Oblast. In 2011-2012 his stats read 9.6ppg, 3.1rpg, 2.3apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 38.9%, 3PT: 31.0%, FT: 72.6%.He was a member of the Russian U19 National Team -11 and at the World Championships U19 in Latvia -11 (Semifinals) averaged 4.1ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.3apg. This season he is Russian U20 National Team -12 member.
Viktor Uskov comes from Spartak Primorie Vladivostok. In 2010/2011 season his stats read 8.3ppg, 2.0rpg, 2.9apg, 2FGP: 43.8%, 3PT: 39.2%, FT: 70.7%. Last year for Spartak Primorie Vladivostok (PBL) he averaged 3.5ppg, 1.2apg. Earlier he played for BC Rjazan (B Superleague), BC Sojuz Zaretchny, CSK VVS Samara, SBK Grodno-93 and TEMP-SUMZ Revda.


Enisey Krasnoyarsk adds PF/C Maxim Krivosheev - by Eurobasket News

Enisey Krasnoyarsk continues with signings for the next season. Their latest addition is Russian PF/C Maxim Krivosheev (207-F/C-88). The player finished last season with Spartak Primorie Vladivostok, where he had 3.8 ppg and 2.4 rpg for 13 games in PBL. They reached Russian Cup Finals together. Krivosheev also played for their U23 team.


Enisey Krasnoyarsk lands scorer Jason Rich - by Eurobasket News

Enisey Krasnoyarsk is very active on the transfer market these days. Their latest addition is American guard Jason Rich (191-G-86). He finished last season with Vanoli-Braga Cremona averaging 16.1 points, 3.4 rebounds, 2 assists and 1.9 steals in 14 games. He helped the club to avoid relegation from Italian SerieA. Rich started the season with Belgian Telenet Oostende. There he had 15.7 ppg, 2.9 apg and 2.6 rpg for 7 games in the league. The guard also added 13.3 ppg and 3.5 rpg for 6 EuroCup appearances. Season 2010/11 Jason Rich spent with Hapoel Migdal Jerusalem. They reached Playoff Semifinals in Israel and Rich participated at the All-Star Game. He shined in EuroCup with 15.6 ppg, 3 rpg and 2.8 apg for 8 games. Before Hapoel Jerusalem, Rich spent one year with Maccabi Haifa and one with Cantu. He graduated at the Florida State University three years ago.


Unics Kazan signs 2-year deal with Kostas Kaimakoglou - by Eurobasket News

As expected, Unics Kazan of Russia, a wild card recipient for the Turkish Airlines Euroleague Qualifying Rounds, has added one of the most versatile players in the competition, combo forward Kostas Kaimakoglou (206-C/F-83), with a two-year deal, the club announced today. Kaimakoglou spent last two seasons with Panathinaikos Athens. In the latest one the player averaged 7.8 points and 4.2 rebounds in 34 Greek league games. He also added 7.9 ppg and 4.1 rpg for 23 Euroleague games. PAO won the Cup last season, but failed to defend Euroleague and Greek league titles. In 2011, Kaimakoglou helped PAO to win these two trophies. He had 7 ppg and 4 rpg in Greece, plus 3.6 ppg and 2.7 rpg in Euroleague. Before PAO, Kostas Kaimakoglou spent six years with Marousi. In the past, he also played for Near East. Kaimakoglou averaged 3.3 points and 1.9 rebounds for 10 games at 2011 EuroBasket in Lithuania. Earlier this summer, Unics signed a deal with Marko Banic (205-F-84). They also returned Pavel Sergeev (186-PG-87, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav) and added Victor Zvarykin (198-G-86). In the first round of Euroleague qualifications Unics will meet German Ratiopharm Ulm.


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  SERBIA   


PF Stevan Jelovac heads to Italian Caserta - by Eurobasket News

Stevan Jelovac (208-F/C-89, agency: Beo Basket) will continue his career in Italy. The Serbian power forward signed a 2-year deal with Otto Caserta. They will compete in SerieA. Jelovac spent last season with Turkish Antalya and it was his first year abroad. He shined with 11.8 ppg and 4.7 rpg for 29 games in TBL. Jelovac reached Finals of 3-point shootout contest at TBL All-Star Game.
Before Antalya, Stevan Jelovac played for Mega Vizura. He had 13.4 ppg and 6.3 rpg for the club in 33 Serbian league games. He started 2010/11 season with Crvena Zvezda, where he also ended 2009/10. That season Jelovac collected 14.3 ppg and 6.1 rpg for 23 games with Mega Vizura, before his move to Crvena Zvezda. In the past, Jelovac played for Partizan. He also was a member of Serbian U20 and U18 National Teams.


Dragan Dojcin stays with German TBB Trier - by Eurobasket News

Dragan Dojcin (205-F-76) got a one-year contract extension from his team TBB Trier. The Serbian power forward will play his third straight season with the club. In the latest one he had 5.8 ppg and 2.8 rpg for 32 games in 1.Bundesliga. In 2010/11, Dojcin registered 7.5 ppg and 3.5 ppg in 34 games. Dragan Dojcin moved to Germany in 2007, when he signed a deal with ALBA Berlin. They stayed three years together. Before ALBA, Dojcin played for Panionios Athens and Khimik Yuzhny. He also has experience from Atlas Banka, Pivovarna Lasko and Zdravlje Leskovac. With Pivovarna Lasko, Dojcin won Slovenian Cup in 2004. Four years after that he won the German league title and Cup with ALBA Berlin. They played in EuroCup Finals two years ago.


Vanja Plisnic signs with TED Kolejliler - by Eurobasket News

Vanja Plisnic (205-F/C-80, agency: Beo Basket) signs with TED Kolejliler. According to sportando.net the player comes from Dinamo Sassari, in Italy, where he has spent the last two years of his career. In 2011-2012 for Banco di Sardegna Sassari (Italy-SerieA) he averaged 8.9ppg, 4.4rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 55.1%, 3PT: 39.8%, FT: 64.6%.
Over the last few years he played in Italy. Vanja Plisnic joined Dinamo Sassari in 2010. He joined the club in January averaging 8.4 points, 5.5 rebounds and 1.5 steals for 19 SerieA games.
Vanja Plisnic started the season 2010/2011 in Russia as a member of Nizhny Novgorod. He played 7 games for them in PBL averaging 10.4 points and 5.7 rebounds. Season 2009/10, Plisnic spent with Angelico Biella. He played 14 games in SereA that season registering 5.3 ppg and 3.3 rpg. He missed some games due to injury. In the past, Plisnic also was a member of Ural Great Perm, Oostende, Vojvodina and FMP. He won the Adriatic league title with FMP in 2004.


Serbian U18 National team - by Zoran Popovic

Serbian U18 Nationl team participates on tournament Le Temple sur Lot in Toulouse, France. Head coach of Serbian U18 National team Dejan Mijatovic (agency: Beo Basket ) takes on trip 13 players:
Marko Guduric, Dusan Ristic, Nikola Cvorovic, Nikola Jankovic, Nikola Rebic, Nikola Milutinov, Sinisa Cvetanovic, Luka Andjusic, Mihajlo Andric, Nikola Radicevic, Djoko Salic, Stefan Pot i Dusan Kutlesi.

With assistant coach Marko Barac will stay Luka Nikolic, Milos Jankovic, Ognjen Dobric and Brano Djukanovic and continue with preparations.

Tournament schedule

July 12 Serbia - Russia
July 13 Serbia Germany
July 14 France - Serbia


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  SPAIN   


Yaroslav Korolev stays with Lagun Aro - by Eurobasket News

Yaroslav Korolev (206-G/F-87) stays with Lagun Aro for the next season. The Russian player will continue for the Spanish squad. A Spanish-speaking forward with great future has quickness, coordination, ball handling and shooting range. He can play in the 2, 3 and 4 positions, and his future is maybe at the SG.
In 2011-2012 for Lagun Aro Gipuzkoa BC (Spain-ACB) he played only in 4 games and averaged 0.8ppg, 1.3rpg.
Earlier the player was with CB Granada and averaged 8.5ppg, 2.6rpg, FGP: 44.2%, 3PT: 22.4%, FT: 80.7%. In 2009-2010 he played for Albuquerque Thunderbirds (D-League) and showed 11.3ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.3apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 48.6%, 3PT: 43.5%, FT: 75.9%. In Jan.'10 moved to Reno Bighorns (D-League) and after 29 games had 9.9ppg, 5.2rpg, 1.2apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 43.2%, 3PT: 35.5%, FT: 67.3%.
Korolev was selected by Los Angeles Clippers in the NBA draft in 2005. Just turned 18, the player was the 12th choice, but fortune was not at his side during his tour in the best league in the world.


Brazil topple Spain in Foz de Iguacu - by Eurobasket News

Brazil - Spain 101:68

Brazil advanced into the Final of Super 4 Cup of Foz de Iguacu tournament. They defeated Spain on the first day of the tourney to set up the clash versus Argentina. Spanish B National Team will face Chile next. Marcelo Magalhaes (199-F/G-75, agency: Interperformances) came up with 23 points to lead the winners.
Brazil erupted for 26 points in the first quarter to take an 8-point lead. The hosts maintained the lead posting a 49:36 halftime advantage. Brazil poured in 30 points in the third quarter to ensure a 34-point buffer heading into the fourth term. Brazil cruised to the victory from there on. Leandrinho Barbosa (190-PG-82) scored 15 points, while Marcelinho Huertas (191-PG-83, agency: Edge Sports) added 10 points for the winners. Joaquim Colom (188-PG-88, agency: Interperformances) answered with 17 points for Spain. David Doblas (206-C-81) provided 12 points in the losing case.

Brazil: Marcelo Magalhaes 23, Leandrinho Barbosa 15, Marcelinho Huertas 10
Spain B: Joaquim Colom 17, David Doblas 12


Joel Freeland to sign 3-year deal with Blazers, according to report - by Eurobasket News

Joel Freeland (6'10''-F-87) will sign a 3-year deal with the NBA team Portland Trail Blazers, according to Tubasket. Reportedly, the player informed Unicaja Malaga yesterday that he plans to buyout his contract for the NBA (1.5M). Freeland will fly to Portland this week for medicals tests and after that he will finalize buyout with Unicaja.
Joel Freeland was 30th overall pick at 2006 NBA Draft selected by the Blazers. Last three seasons the player spent with Unicaja. In the latest one he had 12.8 ppg and 6.7 rpg in 14 Euroleague games. The player also added 12.9 ppg and 7.5 rpg for 31 games in Liga Endesa. Freeland had slightly better numbers in 2010/11. Before Unicaja, he spent three years with Gran Canaria. Joel Freeland will play for the British National Team at 2012 Olympics.


Unicaja lands Sergi Vidal from Lagun Aro GBC - by Eurobasket News

Sergi Vidal (198-F/G-81) is a new member of Unicaja Malaga. The former Spanish NT player signed a 2-year deal with the club. He arrives to Unicaja from Lagun Aro GBC, where he spent last season. For 36 games in Liga Endesa Vidal averaged 11.6 points, 5.1 rebounds and 2.3 assists. He was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Spanish ACB Honorable Mention -12. Lagun Aro GBC was No.5 in the regular season and reached Playoff Quarterfinals. Sergi Vidal played for Real Madrid from 2009 to 2011. Before that he spent 9 years with Tau Ceramica. They won two ACB titles together. In the past, Vidal also played for Joventut Badalona. In 2005, he played for Spanish NT at the EuroBasket in Belgrade.


Blazers officially announce signing of Spanish F Victor Claver - by Eurobasket News

The Portland Trail Blazers have officially announced the signing of Spanish forward Victor Claver (6'10''-F/C-88), who was selected in the first round of the 2009 NBA Draft and spent last season playing for Valencia in Spain's ACB league.

Here's the press release.

The Portland Trail Blazers have signed forward Victor Claver, it was announced today by General Manager Neil Olshey. Per team policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

A native of Valencia, Spain, Claver joins the Trail Blazers three years after the team selected him with the 22nd overall pick in the first round of the 2009 NBA Draft.

"Victor is a player with a high basketball IQ who will come in as a good complement to our roster," said Olshey. "He defends well for his size, has a nice shooting touch, and we look forward to having him on board."

A member of the Spanish national basketball team that will compete in the 2012 London Olympics this summer, Claver (6-10, 235) joins the Trail Blazers from Valencia in the Spanish ACB League, where he averaged 8.7 points, 3.5 rebounds, 1.3 assists, 1.22 steals and 25.8 minutes in 37 ACB and Eurocup games. In six seasons with Valencia, Claver posted averages of 7.7 points, 3.7 rebounds, 1.2 assists, 0.99 steals and 22.2 minutes.

Claver, 23, won the 2010 Eurocup Rising Star Award, an honor given to the most outstanding young player in the competition.

Courtesy of www.blazersedge.com


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


Stavros Toutziarakis pens deal with Solna Vikings - by Eurobasket News

Stavros Toutziarakis (210-C-87, agency: FCM) pens deal with Solna Vikings for the upcoming season. The Greek player moves to Sweden for the next season.
In 2002-2003 he joined Mantoulidis and stayed with the team for 4 seasons. In 2006-2007 played first for Ilysiakos Athens (A2), but then moved to Makedonikos Kozani (A1) and averaged 4.1ppg, 4.2rpg.
In 2007-2008 appeared for Costa Cafe Marousi (A1) and in FIBA EuroCup showed 3.5ppg, 1.0rpg. In Greek League Regular Season his stats read 0.3ppg. In 2008-2009 for Costa Cafe Marousi (A1) he improved 3.3ppg, 2.7rpg in EuroCup and in Greek League showed 2.0ppg, 1.8rpg.
In 2009-2010 moved to AEK Athens (A1) where his stats read 3.6ppg, 2.7rpg. The season 2010-2011 spent with Ikaros Kallitheas (A1) and had 2.9ppg, 1.3rpg. The last season played for OF Irakleio (A2, starting five) and had high 12.6ppg, Reb-4 (7.6rpg), Blocks-4 (1.0bpg), FGP-2 (65.5%), FT: 68.9%.


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


Jeremy Lin upset at Knicks - by Eurobasket News

The New York Knicks may have to patch things up with Jeremy Lin (6'3''-PG-88, college: Harvard).

According to a report by the New York Daily News, Lin is upset that the Knicks didn't offer him a new contract before the Houston Rockets came calling with a lucraticve offer sheet.

Lin has verbally agreed to sign a four-year offer sheet with the Rockets. The deal reportedly is worth $28.8 million, with $10.2 million coming in the first two seasons and over $9 million in each of the last two.

Despite the Knicks insisting they would match the Rockets' offer, Lin still feels slighted, according to the Daily News.

"He was surprised that the Knicks didn't make the first move," a league source told the paper. "They know they've got to mend some fences with him because he believes what the Rockets have told him, that the Knicks weren't as interested as they are."

The Rockets had Lin in training camp last season, but waived him because they already had Kyle Lowry and Goran Dragic on their roster. Now that they've traded Lowry to Toronto, and with Dragic headed to Phoenix, Houston is trying to get Lin back.

However, Lin is almost certain to return to the Knicks, who can match the offer as early as Wednesday.

"They will match any offer on Lin up to 1 billion dollars," a source told ESPN.com's Marc Stein.

Lin made $788,000 last season when he averaged 14.6 points, 6.2 assists and 3.1 rebounds in 35 games with 25 starts before his campaign was cut short because of surgery to repair torn cartilage in his knee.

"What he has to learn is that it's not personal," the source told the Daily News."The Knicks merely played by the rules.''

Lin, who went undrafted out of Harvard, became a sensation with a remarkable stretch in February, scoring at least 20 points in nine of 10 games. A high point of that span came Feb. 10, when he scored 38 points and had seven assists in a 92-85 win over the Lakers.

Lin's expected signing will highlight a busy offseason for the Knicks, who have reached an agreement with veteran playmaker Jason Kidd to back up Lin while reaching a sign-and-trade agreement to bring center Marcus Camby back to New York. J.R. Smith and Steve Novak also are expected to ink new deals.

Courtesy of ESPN


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  TANZANIA   


Thunder sign C Thabeet - by Eurobasket News

The Oklahoma City Thunder signed center Hasheem Thabeet (7'3''-C-87, college: Connecticut) on Wednesday.

Last season, the 7-foot-3 Thabeet averaged 1.8 points and 2.1 rebounds in 20 games between Houston and Portland.

The No. 2 overall pick by Memphis in 2009 has played 135 games, including 16 starts, in three seasons with the Grizzlies, Rockets and Trail Blazers. In his career, Thabeet has scored 2.2 points and pulled in 2.7 rebounds per game. He is a University of Connecticut product.

Courtesy of www.chicagotribune.com


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


Jordan Farmar to be bought out; will play in Anadolu Efes - by Eurobasket News

Jordan Farmar (6'2''-PG-86, college: UCLA) is okay with it. The former Nets backup point guard, traded to Atlanta Tuesday as part of the package the Nets used to acquire all-star guard Joe Johnson, will be bought out by the Hawks today for $1.5 million. And once he clears waivers and is officially a free agent, Farmar, who played in Israel last summer during the NBA lockout, intends to go play in Europe, with Anadolu Efes, of Istanbul.

Farmar had the option of becoming a free agent this summer or exercise his player option to play for the Nets one more year, at $4.25 million. Farmar decided on June 30 -- the day he had to make the decision and hours before free agency began -- to pick the option up. But two days later, he was included in the trade to Atlanta, along with Anthony Morrow, Johan Petro and Jordan Williams. With a three-year offer from Efes on the table, Farmar asked to be bought out, and the Hawks were willing to accommodate him.

With Efes, Farmar will be once again rejoining two-time former teammate Sasha Vujacic, with whom he played on the Lakers and on the Nets.

"For me, it's great,'' Farmar said of his offer from Efes.

Farmar said Istanbul is a two-hour flight from Tel Aviv, Israel, where he played last summer and where he has family living. His wife will be able to fly to Tel Aviv while he is on long trips with the club, he said.

Farmar is believed to have been offered a three-year, $10.5 million deal with Efes. The Turkish club also would provide perks, like a place to live and a car for Farmar and his wife. Farmar is planning on getting married July 28.

Courtesy of www.nj.com


Fenerbahce Ulker signs 2-year deal with Romain Sato - by Eurobasket News

Romain Sato (194-G/F-81, college: Xavier) will continue his career in Turkey. The player signed a 2-year deal with former TBL champions Fenerbahce Ulker. Sato arrives to the club from Panathinaikos Athens, where he spent last two seasons. In the latest one he had 7.1 ppg and 4.7 rpg for 23 Euroleague games. The player also added 5.7 ppg and 3.8 rpg for 34 games in Greece. Sato helped PAO to win Greek Cup last season, but they failed to defend Greek league and Euroleague titles. They managed to take both trophies a year ago. Before PAO, Romain Sato spent four years with Montepaschi Siena. They won four Italian league titles together and two Cups. In the past, Sato also played for Italian Jesi. He is a product of Xavier University.
Romain Sato played for Central African National Team at 2009 AfroBasket in Libya. He shined with 21.6 ppg and 8.6 rpg for 7 games at this event.


Vanja Plisnic signs with TED Kolejliler - by Eurobasket News

Vanja Plisnic (205-F/C-80, agency: Beo Basket) signs with TED Kolejliler. According to sportando.net the player comes from Dinamo Sassari, in Italy, where he has spent the last two years of his career. In 2011-2012 for Banco di Sardegna Sassari (Italy-SerieA) he averaged 8.9ppg, 4.4rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 55.1%, 3PT: 39.8%, FT: 64.6%.
Over the last few years he played in Italy. Vanja Plisnic joined Dinamo Sassari in 2010. He joined the club in January averaging 8.4 points, 5.5 rebounds and 1.5 steals for 19 SerieA games.
Vanja Plisnic started the season 2010/2011 in Russia as a member of Nizhny Novgorod. He played 7 games for them in PBL averaging 10.4 points and 5.7 rebounds. Season 2009/10, Plisnic spent with Angelico Biella. He played 14 games in SereA that season registering 5.3 ppg and 3.3 rpg. He missed some games due to injury. In the past, Plisnic also was a member of Ural Great Perm, Oostende, Vojvodina and FMP. He won the Adriatic league title with FMP in 2004.


Fenerbache Ulker made an offer to Will Bynum? - by Pervin Elgin

Fenerbahce offered $1.6M per season to the player

Fenerbahce made a $1.6M offer to Will Bynum as reported to Sportando by a source close to the situation. The PG is not happy for his limited role with the Pistons, with whom he has contract for next season, and is open to return to Europe in case of good offer.
Bynum has played two years in Europe with Maccabi Tel Aviv early in his career before joining the Pistons in 2008-09. Fenerbahce made the first proposal and is ready to increase the money if the Turkish team won't be able to sign Bo McCalebb who is the main target for the PG position.

Courtesy of sportando.net


Bo McCalebb between Fenerbahce and Unics Kazan - by Pervin Elgin

The Russian team and the Turkish team made their offer for the American, FYROM player

According to source close to the player, the future of Bo McCalebb will be in Russia with Unics Kazan or in Turkey with Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul.
Both teams made their offer to the American PG with passport from FYROM who has spent the last two seasons in Italy with Mens Sana Siena.
The top priority of Ferdinando Minucci, president of Mens Sana, is to shop McCalebb this offseason because at the end of the next one, McCalebb has an NBA Out with very small amount of money.
Minucci wants to monetize the departure of Bo McCalebb and he is asking 1.3M. Unics Kazan offered to McCalebb a 2.2M per year contract while the offer made by Fenerbahce was 2M per season. In the Turkish powerhouse, McCalebb would work again with Simone Pianigiani just appointed as head coach for the next two years.
The buyout is now a big issue for both Unics Kazan and Fenerbahce because the two clubs are extremely eager to sign Bo McCalebb.

Bo McCalebb has also market in the NBA and he got offers up to $4.7M per season but the big issue is the buyout too high for the NBA.

Courtesy of sportando.net


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


Laborers Together Stun Defending Champs for First Win of Season - by David Edole

By Dave Davis July 10, 2012

Laborers Together, the New Breed Basketball Association Summer Leagues last winless team, pulled off a huge upset on Monday, shocking the defending champion Hoyas, 93-86, for their first victory of the season.

Laborers Together coach Elston X Brooks had his young, 0-6 team fired up from the first whistle and stayed on top of them to the final one. They attacked the Hoyas defense, slicing and dicing their way to the basket like no other team this season, and when the Hoyas packed it in down low, they were lit up from the perimeter by a plethora of sharp shooters.

Laborers Together came out on fire and, led with eight points by Shakio Harley, outscored the Hoyas 26-9 to the surprise and delight of the upset-minded crowd.

The Hoyas fought back in the second period, winning the period 20-17 to go into the locker room at intermission down by 14 at 43-29.

The Hoyas began the second half with a sense of urgency but it was not until the midway point of the third period that things began to turn around. They went on a run that allowed them to dominate the period, 28-14, and to tie the game at 57 after three quarters.

Warren Christian had the hot hand for the champs with eight points during the run.

The youthful Laborers Together were not done yet, however, and with Coach Brooks barking commands throughout they were able to right the ship. The lead would change hands many times down the stretch in the fourth quarter, and many in the stands expected the upstarts to fold under the pressure of a close game.

But it was the more seasoned Hoyas who would succumb in the heat of battle.

Omarie Brooks took matters into his own hands, scoring 13 points in the quarter, including hitting three clutch free throws in a crucial time late in the game for the Laborers Together and they were able to pull away for the 93-86 victory.

Brooks led Laborers Together with a team-high 23 points, Najee Williams finished with 21 points and 12 rebounds and Jahreem Williams dropped in 17 points and dished out 10 assists.

For the Hoyas it was Castillo leading the way with a game high 24 points while dishing out six assists. Karl John finished with 21 points and 11 rebounds and Kurt John had 10 points and 14 boards.


V.I. Pride basketball to start on friday - by David Edole

ST. THOMAS - The Virgin Islands Pride Basketball Association 2012 Summer Open Basketball League will begin it's season on Friday. The league's five teams are the Elite, Legacy, Right Mix, Shut Dem Down and Taking Ova. Games will be played at the CAHS gym on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturday. The first game Friday will start at 7:30 p.m. with Right Mix facing Taking Ova, followed by Legacy vs. Shut Dem Down 15 minutes later. The entrance fee will be $2 per person.


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


Ukraine U16 finished second at the International Tournament - by Eurobasket News

Ukraine U16 finished second at the International Tournament in Zrenjanin. The team finished with the same record as the hosts of the tournament but finished one step lower due to the game between each other. Both teams won 2 games and lost one.
In Day 1 Serbia was better than Ukraine in a 90:75 victory. Nikola Pavlovic (204-PF-96) top-scored for the winners with 20 points and Stefan Lazarevic (193-SG-96) added 17 points. Djokovic and Stefan Peno (193-G-97) added 12 points each.
In Day 2 Ukraine overcame Russia 87:67. Ukrainian side dominated the game and rightfully clinched the victory for 1-1 record.
In Day 3 Ukraine won over Greece 85:84.
Greece and Russia finished with 1-2 records each.


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  UNITED KINGDOM   


2012-13 BBL Season Plans Are Confirmed - by Paul Nilsen

The curtain for a brand new, inevitably action-packed and absorbing 2012-13 British Basketball League season will soon be raised as the all-conquering Newcastle Eagles prepares to defend four pieces of BBL silverware - starting in September.

Once again the British Basketball League Championship will continue to be the flagship competition for basketball in the UK with the action tipping off on the 21st September.

During the campaign, all thirteen clubs will play each other in the league three times, either twice at home and once away or vice-versa. The regular season is scheduled to end on the 7th April 2013 ahead of the all-important BBL Play Offs.

Supporters will be able to pour over their clubs' respective fixtures as early as next week and no doubt fans of the two newest BBL clubs in the shape of East London Royals and Manchester Giants will be particularly keen to see who they will debut against.

Meanwhile having been played at the start of last season, the BBL Trophy will revert back to being played in the second half of the forthcoming season. It will also change back to being a straight knockout competition and provide the opportunity for three clubs from outside of the BBL to make the step up and test themselves against the elite level BBL teams.

The BBL Cup has long been considered as one of the most coveted pieces of silverware with the Final regularly drawing big crowds. The tradition of it being the first title up for grabs will certainly continue with the 2013 BBL Cup Final in the diary for Sunday 13th January at the National Indoor Arena in Birmingham.

Three clubs in particular will already have one eye on being crowned BBL Cup winners since current holders Newcastle Eagles, Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders and Worcester Wolves will all receive byes in the opening round courtesy of finishing in the top three BBL Championship positions during 2011/12.

As ever, the British Basketball League season will reach a thrilling climax at the BBL Play-Off Final which will take place on Sunday 28th April.

News of how fans can purchase tickets for the 2013 BBL Playoff Final will be announced soon, along with exciting news on the venue for this showpiece event.


*****************************************************
  URUGUAY   


Rasio played for the last time with Marne - by Hector Lopez

The Argentine Lisandro Rasio (197-F/C-90) scored two free throws with 24 second to play leading Marne to beat Yale 80-78 for the Metro League 15th round. Rasio was playing his last game with Marne, one of the two Metro leaders, because he will be joining the Argentina League champions, Penarol from Mar del Plata. Rasio was the Metro leader on rebounswith 15.5 and the main Marne scorer with 22.0 ppg. Atenas, the other Metro leader, beat Capitol 99-70.
The results for three games played last nigth were:
Marne 80 - Rasio 25 points 10 rebounds,
Yale 78 - Jerry Echenique (201-C-79, college: High Point) 21 points 8 rebounds
- - -
Atenas 99 - Anthony Johnson (203-F-88, college: Fairfield) 15 points 8 rebounds 5 blocks
Capitol 70 - Kevin Martin (208-C-83, college: Florida Gulf Coast) 27 points 13 rebounds
- - -
Urunday Universitario 93 - Howard Wilkerson (198-F-84, agency: Two Points, college: Wofford) 33 points 16 rebounds 2 blocks 5 assists
Romis Nelimar 84 - Devon Pearson (198-F-84, college: SMU) 15 points 13 rebounds 2 blocks


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  VTB UNITED LEAGUE   


Aaron Miles stays with Krasnie Krilya - by Eurobasket News

Krasnie Krilya have agreed on terms of new contract with Aaron Miles (186-G-83, college: Kansas). The guard will stay in Samara for another season. Aaron Miles joined Krasnie Krilya at the start of the previous season. He tallied 9.5 points, 4.5 assists, 3.0 rebounds and 3.0 steals per game in EuroChallenge Qualifying Round. In VTB League Aaron Miles posted 9.9 points, 4.2 rebounds, 3.9 assists and 1.8 steals per appearance. The guard also posted 9.5 points, 3.9 rebounds, 6.3 assists and 1.4 steals per game in PBL. He earned Eurobasket.com All-Russian PBL Honourable Mention. Previously Aaron Miles had stints in D-League, Greece, Spain, France and NBA. He earned All-French ProA and All-Greek A1 Leagues Honourable Mentions in 2007 and 2009. Aaron Miles participated at A1 League All-Star Games in 2009 and 2010.



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Women News


Austria too strong for Wales in Ohrid - by Eurobasket News

Austria - Wales 72-30

Australia and Wales met yesterday in Day One of the 2012 European Championship for Small Countries (Division C). Austria destroyed its rival with huge 72-30 for 1-0 record in Group B. Participants of the same pool are also Gibraltar and FYROM (host). Two best teams will advance to Semifinals. Katharina Podoschek (168-G-80) led the winners with 14 points and 5 rebounds, while Margit Forcher (177-G-76) helped with 12 points and 6 rebs. Sophia Plank (178-G/F-83) was third scorer in victory with 11 points. At the other side, Laura Shanahan (170-G-89) delivered 10 pts and Amelia Reynolds (176-G/F-91) stopped to 6. Austria took control on its rival from the beginning and never looked back. Quarters: 26-3, 9-10, 21-8, 16-9. Today, Austria will meet FYROM, while Wales will play against Gibraltar.

Austria: Katharina Podoschek 14+5 boards, Margit Forcher 12+6 boards, Sophia Plank 11
Wales: Laura Shanahan 10, Amelia Reynolds 6


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  AZERBAIJAN   


Scotland beats Azerbaijan in Day One in Ohrid - by Eurobasket News

Scotland - Azerbaijan 73-54

Scotland had a nice start at 2013 European Championship for Small Countries (Division C). They outplayed Azerbaijan 73-54 for 1-0 score in Group A in Ohrid, FYROM. Scotland was better in every single period of this game for the final 19-point victory (12-11, 19-13, 20-12, 22-18). Malta and Moldova are also placed to this group and all teams fight for the first two places. Those two teams will advance to Semifinals, while 3rd and 4th ranked countries will go to classification games. Rona Corkindale (177-F-86) was a key player in victory with 29 points and 9 rebounds. Siobhan Moore (185-C-87, college: Bridgeport) (6 rebs) scored 16 points and Mairi Buchan (188-C/F-90) (5 rebs) added five less. In Azerbaijan, Dina Ulyanova (185-SF-89) shined with double-double of 27 points and 12 rebounds.Tatyana Deniskina (173-SG-85) posted 18 pts. In Day Two, Scotland will meet Malta. Azerbaijan will play against Moldova.

Scotland: Rona Corkindale 29+9 boards, Siobhan Moore 16+5 boards, Mairi Buchan 11+5 boards
Azerbaijan: Dina Ulyanova 27+12 boards, Tatyana Deniskina 18


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  BELARUS   


Belarus wins Group A, advances to 2013 EuroBasket - by Eurobasket News

BELARUS - UKRAINE 68-60

Belarus booked a ticket for 2013 EuroBasket in France. They outplayed Ukraine tonight 68-60 for 6-2 record in Group A. Belarus is the winner of this pool and already played all of its eight games. Ukraine dropped to 4-3, but still has a nice chance to take the second place. They will have to beat Hungary on Saturday in do-or-die game. Anastasiya Veremeenko (194-C-87) led Belarus today with double-double of 20 points and 10 rebounds. Natalia Anufryienka (174-G-85, agency: LBM Management) had 16 points and 5 rebs, and Alexandra Tarasava (170-PG-88) posted 12 pts. In Ukraine, Alina Iagupova (186-G-92, agency: LBM Management) was better than the others with 16 points and 8 rebs. Olexandra Kurasova (186-F-86) (5 as) and Viktoria Mircheva (190-C-87) posted 11 and 10 pts respectively. Quarters: 19-12, 21-11, 9-16, 19-21. Ukraine will be the host on Saturday.

Belarus: Anastasiya Veremeenko 20+10 boards, Natalia Anufryienka 16+5 boards, Alexandra Tarasava 12
Ukraine: Alina Iagupova 16+8 boards, Olexandra Kurasova 11+5 as, Viktoria Mircheva 10


Nataliya Trofimowa signs with ROW Rybnik - by Eurobasket News

Nataliya Trofimowa (186-F-79) signs with ROW Rybnik for the next season. The Belarus International will remain in Poland but with another team.
The season 2011-2012 she started for LKS Siemens AGD Lodz (Poland-PLKK, starting five) and averaged 10.0ppg, 5.5rpg, 2.3apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 38.6%, 3PT-3 (47.1%), FT: 77.8%. In January Matizol Lider Pruszkow added Nataliya Trofimowa to their roster. Belorussian forward replaced Charity Szczechowiak, whose contract ended with 2011 year. For Matizol Lider Pruszkow (Poland-PLKK, starting five) her stats read 7.6ppg, 5.5rpg, 2.2apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 43.2%, 3PT: 32.8%, FT: 81.0%.
Nataliya Trofimowa is well experienced player. She has been playing in PLKK for some years. Belorussian forward have got a lot achievements. She have been in Belarus NT from 2003.


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  BELGIUM   


Lithuania closes qualifications with victory, advances to EuroBasket in France - by Eurobasket News

LITHUANIA - BELGIUM 61-53

Lithuania was better than Belgium 61-53 in Round 9 of 2013 EuroBasket Qualifications. The hosts finished qualifications with 6-2 record in Group C and secured a spot for EuroBasket. If Slovakia fails in the last round, Lithuania will be the winner of this group. If not, Lithuania will finish as No.2, but that is just the formality as both teams already booked a ticket for France. Belgium faced with seventh loss (0-7) and closes the standings in this pool. Lithuania had to work hard until the end to grab this victory. Quarters: 17-14, 13-16, 16-14, 15-9. Their key player was Gintare Petronyte (196-C-89) with double-double of 19 points and 19 rebounds (valuation 31). Inesa Visgaudaite (172-PG-91) scored 9 points and Giedre Paugaite (192-C-90) added 8 pts, plus 6 boards. Anne-Sophie Strubbe (182-SF-90) answered with 15 points and 6 rebounds in defeat. Emma Meesseman (192-C-93, agency: LBM Management) almost had double-double 11 pts and 9 rebs, while Laurence Van Malderen (190-C-81, agency: LBM Management) posted 8 pts and 6 boards.

Lithuania: Gintare Petronyte 19+19 boards, Inesa Visgaudaite 9, Giedre Paugaite 8+6 boards
Belgium: Anne-Sophie Strubbe 15+6 boards, Emma Meesseman 11+9 boards, Laurence Van Malderen 8+6 boards


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  BULGARIA   


First win for Bulgaria in 2013 EuroBasket Qualifications - by Eurobasket News

BULGARIA - GERMANY 67-60

Bulgaria finally registered its first win in 2013 EuroBasket Qualifications. They outplayed Germany 67-60 for 1-6 score in Group D. At the other side, Germany dropped to 3-4 record. Both teams failed to reach the EuroBasket in France, despite there is one more round to go in qualifications. Radoslava Bachvarova (183-F-87, agency: LBM Management, college: VCU) led Bulgaria to its first win collecting 19 points and 5 rebounds. Daniela Peteva (179-F-89, agency: Josep and Nicolas) scored 15 points and Vera Perostiyska (196-C-82, college: FIU) shined with 12 pts and 10 rebounds. Germany got double-double of 22 points and 11 rebounds from Romy Bar (189-F-87). Anne Breitreiner (183-G/F-84, agency: LBM Management) had 10 pts and 6 boards, while Katharina Fikiel (193-F/C-87) posted 8 pts and 12 rebs. Germany was better in the first ten minutes of the game, but all after that belonged to Bulgaria. The hosts jumped to 59-48 lead with 5:24 remaining, what was too much for the guests. Bulgaria will play in Romania on Saturday, while Germany waits Sweden.

Bulgaria: Radoslava Bachvarova 19+5 boards, Daniela Peteva 15, Vera Perostiyska 12+10 boards
Germany: Romy Bar 22+11 boards, Anne Breitreiner 10+6 boards, Katharina Fikiel 8+12 boards


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  CROATIA   


Croatian U16 National Team 2012 - by Greg

Croatian U16 National Team 2012
#s#
Iva Belosevic
Belosevic
Antonija Bozic
Bozic
Patricia Bura
Bura
Ivana Dojkic
Dojkic
Sara Frakin
Frakin
#e#5
Iva Belosevic 182-SF-97 Agram ZG Croatia
Antonija Bozic 170-PG-96
Patricia Bura 185-C-96
Ivana Dojkic 176-SG-97
Sara Frakin 175-SG-96
Dora Goles 167-PG-97
Dora Jordanic 168-PG-97
Anita Kelava 185-PF-97 Croatia 2006 Croatia
Irena Kolesaric 183-PF-96
Karla Krizanac 177-SG-96
Anja Kukolja 179-PG-97
Petra Lovric 166-PG-96
Mia Lucin 175-PG-97
Maja Marosevic 187-C-96
Daria Mijatovic 180-SF-97
Ena Milicevic 185-PF-96
Lucija Milosevic 184-PF-96
Lorena Molnar 189-C-98
Klaudia Perisa 177-SG-96 Jolly Croatia
Nika Sarjanovic 184-PF-96
Josipa Silov 171-PG-98
Iva Slonjsak 181-SG-97
Tihana Stojsavljevic 185-PF-97
Leona Valenta 171-PG-96

Dean Nemec Head Coach Tresnjevka Croatia
Ivica Molnar Assistant



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


Czech Republic U16 National Team 2012 - by Greg

Czech Republic U16 National Team 2012
#s#
Gabriela Andelova
Andelova
Sarah Berankova
Berankova
Lucie Cervenkova
Cervenkova
Michaela Kanukova
Kanukova
Eva Kopecka
Kopecka
#e#5
Gabriela Andelova 191-PG-96
Sarah Berankova 176-PG-96
Lucie Cervenkova 186-C-96
Michaela Kanukova 188-C-96
Eva Kopecka 172-SF-96
Tereza Kracikova 187-C-96
Jolana Krejcova 173-G/F-96
Klara Krivankova 183-F-96
Aneta Mainclova 191-C-96
Lucie Milaniakova 178-PF-96
Eliska Mircova 176-PG-96 Slovanka MB Czech Republic
Eva Mouckova 160-SG-96
Michaela Potockova 176-SG-96
Katerina Pracharova 177-SF-96
Tereza Sipova 184-F/C-97
Lenka Soukalova 180-PF-97
Hana Vesela

Richard Fousek Head Coach



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


Montenegro books ticket for 2013 EuroBasket in France - by Eurobasket News

MONTENEGRO - ESTONIA 81-61

Expected win for Montenegro, who finished 2013 EuroBasket Qualifications with 6-2 record. That will be enough for the first place in Group B and of course for the EuroBasket ticket. Montenegro entered to qualifications with big ambitions and they managed to meet all expectations. At the other side, Estonia faced with seventh loss in this pool. Iva Perovanovic (189-C/F-83) top-scored in Montenegro with 23 points and she also pulled down 6 rebounds. Jelena Skerovic (176-G-80, agency: Josep and Nicolas) almost registered triple-double in this game with 19 pts, 11 as and 8 rebs, while Snezana Aleksic (172-G-89) netted 14 pts (5 rebs). In Estonia, Merike Anderson (180-F/G-81, agency: LBM Management) delivered 22 points. Valeria Kast (201-C-87, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: N.Mexico) scored 12 pts and grabbed 7 rebs. Montenegro exploded in the first half making 25-point lead. Quarters: 23-14, 29-13, 16-17, 13-17. Estonia will host Serbia on Saturday to close the qualifications.

Montenegro: Iva Perovanovic 23+6 boards, Jelena Skerovic 19+11 as+8 boards, Snezana Aleksic 14+5 boards
Estonia: Merike Anderson 22, Valeria Kast 12+7 boards


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


Galatasaray officially confirms signing of Sancho Lyttle - by Eurobasket News

Its finally official. Today the Turkish giant Galatasaray confirmed signing of Sancho Lyttle (192-C-83, college: Houston) for the next season. The Spanish center helped led Ros Casares to the Euroleague title earlier this year. She had 12.8 ppg, 7.4 rpg, 2.4 apg and 2.3 spg for 17 games. They also won the title in Spanish league, where Lyttle added 12.4 ppg and 8.3 rpg for 28 games. Unfortunately, the team went bankrupt during off-season. Lyttle won Euroleague and Spanish league titles also with Perfumerias a year ago. She currently plays for the WNBA team Atlanta Dream. Lyttle averages impressive 14.8 points, 7.8 rebounds, 2.5 steals and 2.4 assists.
Sancho Lyttle is a member of the Spanish NT since 2010. She paced them to Bronze at 2010 World Championship in Czech Republic. For 8 games at this event Lyttle had 18.4 ppg, 11.5 rpg and 1.8 spg for 8 games. She was named Eurobasket.com All-World Championships Best Center. Sancho Lyttle also was good at 2011 EuroBasket in Poland. There she had 11.7 ppg, 5.3 rpg and 2.5 apg for 6 games. Eurobasket awarded her with All-European Championships Honorable Mention -11. Lyttle played one game for Spain in 2013 EuroBasket Qualifications.


Transfer news from Targoviste and Schio - by Diamadis Farmakis

Euroleague teams Targoviste from Romania and Schio from Italy, announced new player additions to their rosters, for the upcoming season.

*Firstly, according to media reports in Romania, EuroLeague Women newcomers Municipal Targoviste, strengthen their roster by adding local players Florina Pascalau, Gabriella Marginean and Ancuta Stoenescu for the coming season.

As it was reported before, among the others to join Targoviste are Latvia international Elina Babkina, who played for Fenerbahce last season. Targoviste will play in Group B with UNIQA Euroleasing Sopron, Famila Schio, Fenerbahce, Nadezhda, Good Angels Kosice and Arras.

*Elodie Godin (190-C-85) has been a thorn in the side of Famila Schio the past four years as a member of Cras Basket Taranto. Having helped Taranto capture the Italian title in 2011-12, the power forward has decided to join the Schio.

General Manager Paolo De Angelis says Godin, who is about to make her Olympic bow in London with France's national team, is an ideal fit for the team.
"Our choice was dictated by tactical requirements expressed by the technical staff and respecting the perspective of cost containment in a period which, as everyone knows, is certainly not easy," he said.


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

Standings Div.A (Women)

Standings
Group A
1. Belarus6-2
2. Hungary5-2
3. Ukraine4-3
4. Israel3-4
5. Portugal0-7
Group B
1. Montenegro.6-2
2. Poland5-2
3. Serbia5-2
4. Switzerlan.2-5
5. Estonia0-7
Group C
1. Slovakia6-1
2. Lithuania6-2
3. Slovenia4-3
4. Holland2-5
5. Belgium0-7
Group D
1. Sweden6-1
2. Spain6-2
3. Germany3-4
4. Romania2-5
5. Bulgaria1-6
Group E
1. Italy6-1
2. Latvia5-3
3. Greece4-3
4. Finland3-4
5. Luxembourg.0-7

Qualifying Round: Round 9

A

Jul. 11: HUN - ISR 73-66
Jul. 11: BLR - UKR 68-60

B

Jul. 11: MNT - EST 81-61
Jul. 11: SRB - POL 67-62

C

Jul. 11: LTU - BEL 61-53
Jul. 11: NED - SVK 51-66

D

Jul. 11: ESP - ROM 68-54
Jul. 11: BUL - GER 67-60

E

Jul. 11: LAT - FIN 80-47
Jul. 11: ITA - GRE 68-61

Qualifying Round: Round 10

A

Jul. 14: UKR - HUN
Jul. 14: ISR - POR

B

Jul. 14: POL - SUI
Jul. 14: EST - SRB

C

Jul. 14: SVK - SLO
Jul. 14: BEL - NED

D

Jul. 14: ROM - BUL
Jul. 14: GER - SWE

E

Jul. 14: FIN - ITA
Jul. 14: GRE - LUX


Stats Leaders Div.A (Women)

Points Per Game
 Frida ELDEBRINK
  SWE
  (174-G-88)
  Avg: 21.6
 1. Eldebrink, SWE21.6 
 2. Tuukkanen, FIN19.1 
 3. Marginean, ROM18.7 
 4. Petronyte, LTU18.3 
 5. Doron, ISR17.1 
 6. Dabovic, SRB16.4 
 7. Quigley, HUN16.1 
 8. Anderson, EST16.0 
 9. Twehues, SUI15.9 
 10. Perovanovic, MNT15.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Taru TUUKKANEN
  FIN
  (190-C-77)
  Avg: 12.3
 1. Tuukkanen, FIN12.3 
 2. Petronyte, LTU11.5 
 3. Teilane-T., LAT11.3 
 4. Veremeenko, BLR9.9 
 5. Lima, ESP9.6 
 6. Perovanovic, MNT8.1 
 7. Bar, GER8.0 
 8. Giroud, SUI8.0 
 9. Meesseman, BEL8.0 
 10. Nicholls, ESP7.9 
Assists Per Game
 Jelena SKEROVIC
  MNT
  (176-G-80)
  Avg: 6.1
 1. Skerovic, MNT6.1 
 2. Parau, ROM4.4 
 3. Sottana, ITA4.4 
 4. Baric, SLO4.3 
 5. Eldebrink, SWE4.3 
 6. Dubljevic, MNT4.3 
 7. Radocaj, SRB4.1 
 8. Karklina, LAT3.9 
 9. Teilane-T., LAT3.8 
 10. Stoenescu, ROM3.7 
Steals Per Game
 Romy BAR
  GER
  (189-F-87)
  Avg: 3.4
 1. Bar, GER3.4 
 2. Skobel, POL3.1 
 3. Dabovic, SRB3.1 
 4. Linkeviciene, LTU2.7 
 5. Doron, ISR2.7 
 6. Halman, NED2.7 
 7. Kupcikova, SVK2.6 
 8. Hatzinikolao., GRE2.4 
 9. Schmit, LUX2.3 
 10. Ouvina, ESP2.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Anastasiya VEREMEENKO
  BLR
  (194-C-87)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Veremeenko, BLR2.4 
 2. Teilane-T., LAT2.1 
 3. Majewska, POL2.0 
 4. Meesseman, BEL1.7 
 5. Petronyte, LTU1.4 
 6. Nicholls, ESP1.3 
 7. Pavel, ROM1.3 
 8. Popovic, MNT1.2 
 9. Halman, NED1.0 
 10. Paugaite, LTU1.0 


Division C Standings - by Eurobasket News

Standings
Group A
1. Malta1-0
2. Scotland1-0
3. Azerbaijan0-1
4. Moldova0-1
Group B
1. FYR Macedon.1-0
2. Austria1-0
3. Gibraltar0-1
4. Wales0-1


European Championship for Small Countries (Division C): Day One in Ohrid - by Eurobasket News

GROUP A

Scotland - Azerbaijan 73-54
Scotland had a nice start at 2013 European Championship for Small Countries (Division C). They outplayed Azerbaijan 73-54 for 1-0 score in Group A in Ohrid, FYROM. Scotland was better in every single period of this game for the final 19-point victory (12-11, 19-13, 20-12, 22-18). Malta and Moldova are also placed to this group and all teams fight for the first two places. Those two teams will advance to Semifinals, while 3rd and 4th ranked countries will go to classification games. Rona Corkindale (177-F-86) was a key player in victory with 29 points and 9 rebounds. Siobhan Moore (185-C-87, college: Bridgeport) (6 rebs) scored 16 points and Mairi Buchan (188-C/F-90) (5 rebs) added five less. In Azerbaijan, Dina Ulyanova (185-SF-89) shined with double-double of 27 points and 12 rebounds.Tatyana Deniskina (173-SG-85) posted 18 pts. In Day Two, Scotland will meet Malta. Azerbaijan will play against Moldova.

Scotland: Rona Corkindale 29+9 boards, Siobhan Moore 16+5 boards, Mairi Buchan 11+5 boards
Azerbaijan: Dina Ulyanova 27+12 boards, Tatyana Deniskina 18


Moldova - Malta 23-72
Malta had no mercy for Moldova in Day One of the 2013 European Championship for Small Countries (Division C). Malta celebrated impressive 23-72 against its rival improving to 1-0 score in Group A. Scotland was better than Azerbaijan yesterday, so Malta and Scotland share the first place in this pool after Round One. Ashleigh Vella (188-F/C-90) stepped up for the winners with double-double of 13 points and 13 rebounds. Rebecca Thoresen (178-F/G-78) also scored 13 points and Elena Cassar (179-PG-92) added 12 points, plus 7 rebounds. Moldova did not have anyone with double digits in scoring. Anastasiya Lavric (170-PG-90) and A Causen posted 7 and 4 pts respectively. Malta dominated at the both sides of the court and they only slowed down in the last period when (of course) everything was already clear. Quarters: 3-27, 6-20, 3-15, 11-10. Malta will meet Scotland today and the winner will mostly likely end as No.1 of this group at the end of the Preliminary Round. Moldova will meet Azerbaijan.

Moldova: Anastasiya Lavric 7, Ala Causan (178-SG-75) 4+4 boards
Malta: Ashleigh Vella 13+13 boards, Rebecca Thoresen 13, Elena Cassar 12+7 boards


GROUP B

Gibraltar - F.Y.R. of Macedonia 36-83
FYROM had a great start of the 2012 European Championship for Small Countries (Division C). The host of this event handed 36-83 loss to Gibraltar for 1-0 record in Group B. Wales and Austria are also placed to this pool and two best teams will advance to Semifinals. FYROM had amazing first quarter making 9-39 lead. At that time it was already clear that Gibraltar is too weak for the home squad. Quarters: 9-39, 5-14, 14-10, 8-20. Monika Gavriloska (190-F/C-76, agency: Global Sports Plaza) collected 15 points and 9 rebounds in victory. Ana Tanturovska (174-G-90) and Elena Radenkovic (186-C/F-84, agency: Global Sports Plaza) (6 rebs) posted 14 and 12 pts respectively. In defeat, Zainya Reyes (173-SG-92) was much better than the others with 15 points, while Graciella Anthony (173-G/F-85) was limited to just 4 pts and 6 boards. FYROM will meet Austria today and it will most likely be decisive game for the first place in Group A. Gibraltar will play against Wales and both teams hope to grab the first win.

Gibraltar: Zainya Reyes 15, Graciella Anthony 4+6 boards
F.Y.R. of Macedonia: Monika Gavriloska 15+9 boards, Ana Tanturovska 14, Elena Radenkovic 12+6 boards


Austria - Wales 72-30
Australia and Wales met yesterday in Day One of the 2012 European Championship for Small Countries (Division C). Austria destroyed its rival with huge 72-30 for 1-0 record in Group B. Participants of the same pool are also Gibraltar and FYROM (host). Two best teams will advance to Semifinals. Katharina Podoschek (168-G-80) led the winners with 14 points and 5 rebounds, while Margit Forcher (177-G-76) helped with 12 points and 6 rebs. Sophia Plank (178-G/F-83) was third scorer in victory with 11 points. At the other side, Laura Shanahan (170-G-89) delivered 10 pts and Amelia Reynolds (176-G/F-91) stopped to 6. Austria took control on its rival from the beginning and never looked back. Quarters: 26-3, 9-10, 21-8, 16-9. Today, Austria will meet FYROM, while Wales will play against Gibraltar.

Austria: Katharina Podoschek 14+5 boards, Margit Forcher 12+6 boards, Sophia Plank 11
Wales: Laura Shanahan 10, Amelia Reynolds 6


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


Latvia destroys Finland to secure spot for 2013 EuroBasket in France - by Eurobasket News

LATVIA - FINLAND 80-47

Latvia destroyed Finland 80-47 on Wednesday to book a spot for 2013 EuroBasket in France. Thanks to this victory Latvia finished as the second ranked team of Group E with 5-3 record. Finland at the other side dropped to 3-4 and they will meet Italy on Saturday. Italy will be the winner of this group as they already celebrated in 6 games. Zane Teilane-Tamane (200-C-83, agency: LBM Management, college: W.Illinois) had amazing game collecting 16 points and 24 rebounds (valuation 37!). Kristine Karklina (175-G-83, agency: Regeneracom Sports) scored 15 points and Liene Jansone (191-F/C-81, college: Siena) added 12 pts, 6 boards and 5 assists. Visitors got 9 points from Dionne Pounds (174-F-84, agency: Regeneracom Sports, college: Lamar) (8 rebs) and Emmi Leino (182-F/G-94). Tiina Sten (189-G/F-85, agency: Regeneracom Sports, college: St.John's) stopped to 7 pts in this meeting. Latvia dominated during the entire game increasing their lead each minute. Quarters: 30-17, 16-12, 16-7, 18-11. Saturday is the last day of qualifications.

Latvia: Zane Teilane-Tamane 16+24 boards, Kristine Karklina 15, Liene Jansone 12+6 boards+5 as
Finland: Dionne Pounds 9+8 boards, Emmi Leino 9, Tiina Sten 7


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


Mistie Mims to join Lyon for 2012/13 - by Eurobasket News

Mistie Mims (191-C-83, college: Duke) will play next season for Lyon, according to French media (Le Progres). Her team Challes filed for bankruptcy recently. Last season Mims exploded with 19 ppg and 7.3 rpg for 28 games. She was the top scorer in LFB and was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-French LFB Player of the Year -12. Challes reached LFB and Cup Semifinals. Mistie Mims was the best LFB scorer in 2010/11 as well. At that time she had 19.1 ppg and was fourth rebounder of the league with 9.3 rpg in 27 games. She was named Eurobasket.com All-French LFB Import Player of the Year -11. Mistie Mims currently plays for the Connecticut Sun in the WNBA. Lyon could also get other Challes players for the next season. However, there is no official confirmation yet.


Lyon officially adds Plagnard, Page, Chevaugeon, confirms arrival of Mistie Mims - by Eurobasket News

Lyon officially announced signing of Alexia Plagnard (172-G-90), Danielle Page (188-F-86, college: Nebraska) and Sara Chevaugeon (177-G-93) for the next season. The team also confirmed arrival of Mistie Mims (191-C-83, college: Duke). All players head to Lyon from Challes, which went bankrupt recently. Lyon, who originally was relegated from the LFB, will play in the same competition next season due to Challes bankrupt.
Alexia Plagnard averaged 5 points, 2 assists and 1.9 rebounds last season for Challes. She joined them two years ago from Lattes Montpellier.
Danielle Page had 11.8 ppg, 6.4 rpg and 1.3 apg for 29 games in LFB last season. She arrived to Chales a year ago from Hungarian ZTE NKK.
Sara Chevaugeon also arrived to Challes last summer, but from CFBB. She had 3.1 ppg for 25 games.
Mistie Mims exploded last season with 19 ppg and 7.3 rpg for 28 games. She was the top scorer in LFB and was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-French LFB Player of the Year -12. Challes reached LFB and Cup Semifinals. Mistie Mims was the best LFB scorer in 2010/11 as well. At that time she had 19.1 ppg and was fourth rebounder of the league with 9.3 rpg in 27 games. She was named Eurobasket.com All-French LFB Import Player of the Year -11. Mistie Mims currently plays for the Connecticut Sun in the WNBA.


Toulouse extends American F Carrem Gay - by Eurobasket News

Carrem Gay (188-F-87, college: Duke) will play another year with Toulouse Metropole Basket. The American forward signed contract extension today. She had 11.8 ppg, 7.5 rpg and 2.2 spg for the club in 25 games last season. Gay helped Toulouse to reach LF2 Finals and she was named to Eurobasket.com All-French LF2 2nd Team -12.
Carrem Gay arrived to Toulouse a year ago from Pays d'Aix Basket 13 Provence. There she had 7.3 ppg and 4.6 rpg for 15 games in LFB. Gay joined Pays d'Aix Basket 13 Provence in January of 2011. Before that she split 2009/10 season between Israeli Maccabi Ramat Hen and Swiss Sdent Sierre Basket. With Sdent Gay won Swiss LNA title and Cup. She graduated at Duke University in 2009.


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


FYROM blasts Gibraltar in Ohrid - by Eurobasket News

Gibraltar - F.Y.R. of Macedonia 36-83

FYROM had a great start of the 2012 European Championship for Small Countries (Division C). The host of this event handed 36-83 loss to Gibraltar for 1-0 record in Group B. Wales and Austria are also placed to this pool and two best teams will advance to Semifinals. FYROM had amazing first quarter making 9-39 lead. At that time it was already clear that Gibraltar is too weak for the home squad. Quarters: 9-39, 5-14, 14-10, 8-20. Monika Gavriloska (190-F/C-76, agency: Global Sports Plaza) collected 15 points and 9 rebounds in victory. Ana Tanturovska (174-G-90) and Elena Radenkovic (186-C/F-84, agency: Global Sports Plaza) (6 rebs) posted 14 and 12 pts respectively. In defeat, Zainya Reyes (173-SG-92) was much better than the others with 15 points, while Graciella Anthony (173-G/F-85) was limited to just 4 pts and 6 boards. FYROM will meet Austria today and it will most likely be decisive game for the first place in Group A. Gibraltar will play against Wales and both teams hope to grab the first win.

Gibraltar: Zainya Reyes 15, Graciella Anthony 4+6 boards
F.Y.R. of Macedonia: Monika Gavriloska 15+9 boards, Ana Tanturovska 14, Elena Radenkovic 12+6 boards


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


First win for Bulgaria in 2013 EuroBasket Qualifications - by Eurobasket News

BULGARIA - GERMANY 67-60

Bulgaria finally registered its first win in 2013 EuroBasket Qualifications. They outplayed Germany 67-60 for 1-6 score in Group D. At the other side, Germany dropped to 3-4 record. Both teams failed to reach the EuroBasket in France, despite there is one more round to go in qualifications. Radoslava Bachvarova (183-F-87, agency: LBM Management, college: VCU) led Bulgaria to its first win collecting 19 points and 5 rebounds. Daniela Peteva (179-F-89, agency: Josep and Nicolas) scored 15 points and Vera Perostiyska (196-C-82, college: FIU) shined with 12 pts and 10 rebounds. Germany got double-double of 22 points and 11 rebounds from Romy Bar (189-F-87). Anne Breitreiner (183-G/F-84, agency: LBM Management) had 10 pts and 6 boards, while Katharina Fikiel (193-F/C-87) posted 8 pts and 12 rebs. Germany was better in the first ten minutes of the game, but all after that belonged to Bulgaria. The hosts jumped to 59-48 lead with 5:24 remaining, what was too much for the guests. Bulgaria will play in Romania on Saturday, while Germany waits Sweden.

Bulgaria: Radoslava Bachvarova 19+5 boards, Daniela Peteva 15, Vera Perostiyska 12+10 boards
Germany: Romy Bar 22+11 boards, Anne Breitreiner 10+6 boards, Katharina Fikiel 8+12 boards


Rhein Main Baskets keep Svenja Greunke, Stephanie Wagner and Anna-Lisa Rexroth - by Eurobasket News

Rhein Main Baskets keep Svenja Greunke (188-F-89), Stephanie Wagner (181-F-90) and Anna-lisa Rexroth (174-G-90) for the next season. The German players are among 7 who will stay with the team.
Svenja Greunke will enter her 5th season with the team. In 2011-2012 for Rhein Main Baskets she averaged 13.5ppg, 7.3rpg, 2.0apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 46.3%, 3PT: 34.7%, FT: 85.0%. She was named Eurobasket.com All-German DBBL Honorable Mention.
Stephanie Wagner also joined the team in 2008. Last season her stats read 6.3ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.4apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 36.8%, 3PT: 31.6%, FT: 60.3%.
Anna-lisa Rexroth appeared in the team also in 2008. In 2011-2012 she averaged.8ppg, 1.9rpg, 1.8apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 43.6%, 3PT: 36.8%, FT: 85.0%.
All players became German DBBL Cup Finalist -12 and German DBBL Regular Season Runner-Up -12.


Britta Worms will stay with Herner TC - by Eurobasket News

Britta Worms (185-C-88) will stay with Herner TC in 2012/2013 season. The German Center will continue with her team.
In 2008-2009 she appeared for TSVE Bielefeld Dolphins (2.Bundesliga, starting five) and stayed with the team for two seasons. In 2010-2011 moved to Herner TC (DBBL, starting five) and after 22 games averaged 2.6ppg, 1.7rpg. In 2011-2012 she improved to 14.2ppg, 5.7rpg, 1.1apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 54.8%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 79.5%
For her Awards/Achievements it is a must to mention German 2.Bundesliga Group North Regular Season Champion -12. She was also German 2.Bundesliga Group North Champion -12 and Eurobasket.com All-German 2.Bundesliga North Honorable Mention -12. Moreover Britta Worms received Eurobasket.com German 2.Bundesliga North All-Domestic Players Team -12.
Few months ago Herner clinched North Conference title. They swept the title series versus Goettingen.


German U16 National Team 2012 - by Greg

Nele Aha
Flavia Behrendt
Annalena Blume
Patricia Brossmann
Jennifer Crowder
Leonie Elbert
Alina Gimbel
Franziska Hadaschik
Cynthia Homburger
Nadjeschda Ilmberger
Lisa Janko
Cherina Kaiser
Tanja Kantelhardt
Paulina Koerner
Marija Krstanovic
Annika Kueper
Sophia Neubauer
Clara Schwartz
Emma Stach
Sarah Stock
Maj vom Hofe
Lena Wenke
Alexandra Wilke
Laura Zdravevska

Alexandra Maerz
Stefan Mienack


*****************************************************
  GIBRALTAR   


FYROM blasts Gibraltar in Ohrid - by Eurobasket News

Gibraltar - F.Y.R. of Macedonia 36-83

FYROM had a great start of the 2012 European Championship for Small Countries (Division C). The host of this event handed 36-83 loss to Gibraltar for 1-0 record in Group B. Wales and Austria are also placed to this pool and two best teams will advance to Semifinals. FYROM had amazing first quarter making 9-39 lead. At that time it was already clear that Gibraltar is too weak for the home squad. Quarters: 9-39, 5-14, 14-10, 8-20. Monika Gavriloska (190-F/C-76, agency: Global Sports Plaza) collected 15 points and 9 rebounds in victory. Ana Tanturovska (174-G-90) and Elena Radenkovic (186-C/F-84, agency: Global Sports Plaza) (6 rebs) posted 14 and 12 pts respectively. In defeat, Zainya Reyes (173-SG-92) was much better than the others with 15 points, while Graciella Anthony (173-G/F-85) was limited to just 4 pts and 6 boards. FYROM will meet Austria today and it will most likely be decisive game for the first place in Group A. Gibraltar will play against Wales and both teams hope to grab the first win.

Gibraltar: Zainya Reyes 15, Graciella Anthony 4+6 boards
F.Y.R. of Macedonia: Monika Gavriloska 15+9 boards, Ana Tanturovska 14, Elena Radenkovic 12+6 boards


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


Ragusa lands Greek NT player Peli Papamichail - by Eurobasket News

Peli Papamichail (189-F/C-86, agency: Josep and Nicolas) will continue her career in Italy, according to their media (Basketinside.com). Reportedly, the Greek National Team power forward penned a one-year deal with Passalacqua Spedizioni Ragusa (A2). Few days ago, the team already landed Serbian Milica Micovic (182-G-84, agency: Players Group).
Peli Papamichail spent last season with Panionios Athens. She appeared 21 times in Greek A1 averaging 15.9 points, 10 rebounds and 1.7 assists. They reached Playoff Semifinals and Papamichail was named to Eurobasket.com All-Greek League 2nd Team -12. She was also awarded with Eurobasket.com Greek League All-Domestic Players Team -12. Panionos played in Cup Semis as well. Before Panionios, Peli Papamichail played one year for the French squad Cote d'Opale Basket Calais. In 2009/10 she changed three teams (Cadi la Seu, Gospic CO and Limoges). Papamichail had 4 ppg and 4.3 rpg with the Greek National Team at the 2011 EuroBasket in Poland. She appeared three times at this event.


Greek U16 National Team 2012 - by Greg

Greek U16 National Team 2012
#s#
Athina Antoniadou
Antoniadou
Efthymia Basoukou
Basoukou
Eleanna Christinaki
Christinaki
Maria Fasoula
Fasoula
Anastasia-Theodora Galiatsatou
Galiatsatou
#e#5
Athina Antoniadou 174-SG-96
Efthymia Basoukou 178-SF-96
Eleanna Christinaki 181-G-96 Panathinaikos Greece
Maria Fasoula 190-C-97
Anastasia-Theodora Galiatsatou 170-PG-96 Panionios Greece
Christiana Gerostergiou 176-G/F-96
Maria Goula 178-G/F-96 PAOK Greece
Kyriaki Kalimeri 184-F/C-96
Vasiliki Karambatsa 183-F-96
Chrysoula Kilazidou 172-SG-97 Aris Greece
Christina Kitsiou 184-SF-96
Evgenia Kollatou 172-PG-98
Vasiliki Louka 193-C-96 Esperides Greece
Anna-Maria Manta 170-PG-97
Anna Markoulaki 177-SG-96
Kleanthi Oikonomaki 182-F-96
Pinelopi Pavlopoulou 170-PG-96 Panionios Greece
Charikleia Polyzou 178-SF-97
Aikaterini Sideraki 172-SG-96 Athinaikos Greece
Georgia Stamati 178-SF-96 Panionios Greece
Dimitra Tsavou 182-F-96 Kronos AD Greece
Evgenia Zoumperaki 177-SF-96
Anastasia Zygogianni 172-SG-96

Evripidis Meletiadis Head Coach
Panagiotis Papanikolaou Assistant



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


Big Blow for Holland U16 - by Bas Hendriks

The decision came after some weeks of rehabilitation, but it's final now: Holland has to go into the U16 tournament without their leading star pointguard Laura Cornelius (174-PG-96)

Cornelius, already one of the more experienced players, having already been on the U18 team last season, and in preparation for the U17 worlds this summer, sustained a serious injury in the Fougeres. She received intense threatment from the Medical Staff of the National Dutch federation, but her healing process proved to complete too slow to be on the U16 team this year.

A big blow for headcoach Bart Sengers who appointed Probuild Lions Beau Baars as her replacement. Baars however is far less experienced , allthough talented, and figures not to have such a great impact on the rotation as Cornelius would have done. The Dutch team will probably go to an inside oriented game featuring the fine inside duo of Emese Hof and Janiss Amundala.


Dutch NT player Naomi Halman officially joins Liomatic Umbertide - by Eurobasket News

Naomi Halman (191-F/C-86, agency: Regeneracom Sports, college: Cal-Irvine) will stay in Italy for the next season. Liomatic Umbertide officially announced her signing today. Halman spent 2011/12 with Faenza. She played 20 games in A1 registering 10.1 ppg, 5.8 rpg and 2 spg. The Dutch PF/C supposed to play for Basket Parma in 2010/11, but she did not appear in any official game for the club that season. Actually, they ended on FIBA Arbitral Tribunal. In 2009/10, Naomi Halman averaged 7.9 points, 3.5 rebounds and 2.8 steals in 24 games with Parma. In the past, she spent one year with Spanish Gran Canaria and one with Lely Amsterdam. Halman also has experience from Den Helder and University of California-Irvine (NCAA1). She currently plays for Dutch National Team in 2013 EuroBasket Qualifications.


Slovakia cruises past Holland, advances to 2013 EuroBasket - by Eurobasket News

HOLLAND - SLOVAKIA 51-66

Slovakia booked a ticket for 2013 EuroBasket in France. They handed 51-66 home loss to Holland on Wednesday night for almost perfect 6-1 record in Group C. Slovakia will have a chance to win this pool if they beat Slovenia in the last round of qualifications. That game is scheduled for Saturday. At the other side, Holland fell to 2-5 and their last rival will be Belgium. Slovakia had impressive first half of the game making 18-point lead. They had no troubles to keep it for rest of the way. Quarters: 18-24, 9-21, 13-11, 11-10. Lucia Kupcikova (184-F-84) shined with 20 points and 5 rebounds for the guests and Anna Jurcenkova (195-C-85) added 12 pts, plus 11 boards. Ivana Jalcova (182-G-83) collected 9 points and 5 rebs. For the hosts, Marianne Van der Hoek (180-F-90) delivered 15 points and Naomi Halman (191-F/C-86, agency: Regeneracom Sports, college: Cal-Irvine) had one less, plus 9 rebounds. Tanya Broering (178-G-84) was limited to 7 pts and 5 rebs.

Holland: Marianne Van der Hoek 15, Naomi Halman 14+9 boards, Tanya Broering 7+5 boards
Slovakia: Lucia Kupcikova 20+5 boards, Anna Jurcenkova 12+11 boards, Ivana Jalcova 9+5 boards


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


Hungary beats Israel in Sopron - by Eurobasket News

HUNGARY - ISRAEL 73-66

Hungary was better than Israel 73-66 in Round Nine of the 2013 EuroBasket Qualifications. Thanks to this victory Hungary improved to 5-2 record in Group A, while at the other side Israel dropped to 3-4. Hungary will meet Ukraine in the last round and it will be decisive game for the second place in this pool. Ukraine celebrated in Hungary in Round Five 73-78, so Hungary will have to win with at least 6 pts on Saturday. Israel failed to reach the EuroBasket. Allie Quigley (180-G-86, college: De Paul) stepped up for the winners with 20 points and 8 rebounds. Katalin Honti (175-G-87) (5 as) scored 13 pts, while Nora Nagy (185-F-85, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) helped with 12 points and 9 rebs. In defeat, Liron Cohen (173-G-82) collected 19 points and 5 assists. Shay Doron (175-SG-85, college: Maryland) and Ekaterina Abramzon (185-F-87) scored 14 and 11 pts respectively. Hungary shined in the last ten minutes to take the victory in this game. Quarters: 14-20, 16-14, 20-18, 23-14. Saturday is the last day of qualifications.

Hungary: Allie Quigley 20+8 boards, Katalin Honti 13+5 as, Nora Nagy 12+9 boards
Israel: Liron Cohen 19+5 as, Shay Doron 14, Ekaterina Abramzon 11


Hungarian U16 National Team 2012 - by Greg

Hungarian U16 National Team 2012
#s#
Anna Abahazy
Abahazy
Nina Aho
Aho
Piroska Beneda
Beneda
Agnes Dobos
Dobos
Debora Dubei
Dubei
#e#5
Anna Abahazy 187-C-96
Nina Aho 174-PG-97
Piroska Beneda 175-PG-96 BSE-FCSM Hungary
Agnes Dobos 190-C-96
Debora Dubei 180-SF-97
Fanni Farkas 175-SG-96
Fanni Feigl 191-C-96
Anna Gundel-Takacs 180-SF-96
Bernadett Horvath 168-PG-96
Palma Kaposi 183-PF-96
Eniko Kuttor 183-PF-97
Dorottya Nagy 183-PF-97
Monika Rick 178-SF-96
Viktoria Szalay 172-PG-96
Timea Toth 184-PF-97 DKSK Hungary
Fruzsina Weber 181-SF-96
Virag Weninger 174-SG-97

Andrea Kovacs Head Coach Szeged Hungary



*****************************************************
  INDIA   


India edge Malaysia in Taiwan - by Eurobasket News

India - Malaysia 75:62

India finished their William Jones Cup invitational tournament campaign on a high note. They defeated Malaysia to finish in the fourth position at 2-3 record. Malaysia fell at 1-4 record after the loss. Anna Jose Geethu (185-C-85) stepped up with 22 points, 15 rebounds and 6 assists to lead the winners.
India pulled ahead in the opening frame. They recorded a 19:14 lead after ten minutes. India maintained the lead and stretched it to as many as 13 points at halftime 38:25. India stayed in front throughout the third term. They boosted the gap to 19 points before the final quarter. Malaysia tried to change the complexion of the game in the fourth frame. They partially succeeded outscoring their opponents but came up short of victory at the end. Akanksha Singh (168-G-89) had 17 points and 8 rebounds, while Skaria Palanilkumkalayil finished with 11 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. Fook Yee Yap (174-F-93) and Hui Pin Pang (176-90) answered with 14 points each for Malaysia.

India: Anna Jose Geethu 22+15 boards, Akanksha Singh 17, Skaria Palanikumkalayil 11+11 boards
Malaysia: Fook Yee Yap 14, Hui Pin Pang 14


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


Hungary beats Israel in Sopron - by Eurobasket News

HUNGARY - ISRAEL 73-66

Hungary was better than Israel 73-66 in Round Nine of the 2013 EuroBasket Qualifications. Thanks to this victory Hungary improved to 5-2 record in Group A, while at the other side Israel dropped to 3-4. Hungary will meet Ukraine in the last round and it will be decisive game for the second place in this pool. Ukraine celebrated in Hungary in Round Five 73-78, so Hungary will have to win with at least 6 pts on Saturday. Israel failed to reach the EuroBasket. Allie Quigley (180-G-86, college: De Paul) stepped up for the winners with 20 points and 8 rebounds. Katalin Honti (175-G-87) (5 as) scored 13 pts, while Nora Nagy (185-F-85, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) helped with 12 points and 9 rebs. In defeat, Liron Cohen (173-G-82) collected 19 points and 5 assists. Shay Doron (175-SG-85, college: Maryland) and Ekaterina Abramzon (185-F-87) scored 14 and 11 pts respectively. Hungary shined in the last ten minutes to take the victory in this game. Quarters: 14-20, 16-14, 20-18, 23-14. Saturday is the last day of qualifications.

Hungary: Allie Quigley 20+8 boards, Katalin Honti 13+5 as, Nora Nagy 12+9 boards
Israel: Liron Cohen 19+5 as, Shay Doron 14, Ekaterina Abramzon 11


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


Ragusa lands Greek NT player Peli Papamichail - by Eurobasket News

Peli Papamichail (189-F/C-86, agency: Josep and Nicolas) will continue her career in Italy, according to their media (Basketinside.com). Reportedly, the Greek National Team power forward penned a one-year deal with Passalacqua Spedizioni Ragusa (A2). Few days ago, the team already landed Serbian Milica Micovic (182-G-84, agency: Players Group).
Peli Papamichail spent last season with Panionios Athens. She appeared 21 times in Greek A1 averaging 15.9 points, 10 rebounds and 1.7 assists. They reached Playoff Semifinals and Papamichail was named to Eurobasket.com All-Greek League 2nd Team -12. She was also awarded with Eurobasket.com Greek League All-Domestic Players Team -12. Panionos played in Cup Semis as well. Before Panionios, Peli Papamichail played one year for the French squad Cote d'Opale Basket Calais. In 2009/10 she changed three teams (Cadi la Seu, Gospic CO and Limoges). Papamichail had 4 ppg and 4.3 rpg with the Greek National Team at the 2011 EuroBasket in Poland. She appeared three times at this event.


Dutch NT player Naomi Halman officially joins Liomatic Umbertide - by Eurobasket News

Naomi Halman (191-F/C-86, agency: Regeneracom Sports, college: Cal-Irvine) will stay in Italy for the next season. Liomatic Umbertide officially announced her signing today. Halman spent 2011/12 with Faenza. She played 20 games in A1 registering 10.1 ppg, 5.8 rpg and 2 spg. The Dutch PF/C supposed to play for Basket Parma in 2010/11, but she did not appear in any official game for the club that season. Actually, they ended on FIBA Arbitral Tribunal. In 2009/10, Naomi Halman averaged 7.9 points, 3.5 rebounds and 2.8 steals in 24 games with Parma. In the past, she spent one year with Spanish Gran Canaria and one with Lely Amsterdam. Halman also has experience from Den Helder and University of California-Irvine (NCAA1). She currently plays for Dutch National Team in 2013 EuroBasket Qualifications.


Italian U16 National Team 2012 - by Greg

Italian U16 National Team 2012
#s#
Arianna Beretta
Beretta
Emma Bonvecchio
Bonvecchio
Alessia Cabrini
Cabrini
Giorgia Callegari
Callegari
Claudia Colli
Colli
#e#5
Arianna Beretta 177-SF-96
Emma Bonvecchio 172-PG-96
Alessia Cabrini 177-SF-96 CFBB France
Giorgia Callegari 173-SG-96
Claudia Colli 175-PG-96
Ilenia Cordola 181-PF-96
Irina Giorgi 180-PF-96
Isabel Hernandez 180-SF-96
Martina Kacerik 179-F-96
Arianna Landi 175-SG-96 Bologna Italy
Marta Lorenzin 183-C-96
Chiara Lussana 168-PG-96
Francesca Pan 178-SG-97
Carlotta Picco 173-PG-96
Laura Reani 174-SF-96
Isabel Romano 170-PG-96
Francesca Russo 172-SG-96
Mariella Santucci 167-PG-97
Marzia Tagliamento 179-F-96
Federica Tarsia 178-SF-96
Irene Tosi 182-PF-97
Sofia Vespignani 164-PG-96 Cervia Italy
Annalisa Vitari 183-F-96
Cecilia Zandalasini 182-F-96

Roberto Riccardi Head Coach



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


Cathay Life cruise past Japan to win William Jones Cup - by Eurobasket News

Cathay Life - Japan 91:51

Cathay Life clinched the title at the William Jones Cup invitational tournament. They fired past Japan for the fifth straight win. Chiang Feng-Chun (184-F-81) scored 18 points to lead the effort. Japan fell at 3-2 record and occupied the third position.
Cathay Life gave no chance for the visitors. They went on a 26:13 run in the opening quarter. Cathay Life stretched the gap to 14 points at halftime 42:28. They outscored Japan 24:9 in the third term to take a 29-point lead before the fourth term. Cathay Life did not look back in the fourth quarter marching to the victory at the end. Chen Yu-Chun (176-F-87) knocked down 17 points, while Liu Chun-Yi (180-F/C-81) added 16 points for the winners. Riko Kakuhata answered with 12 points for Japan. Yuka Kosuge had 10 points in the loss.

Cathay Life: Chiang Feng-Chun 18, Chen Yu-Chun 17, Liu Chun-Yi 16
Japan: Riko Kakuhata 12, Yuka Kosuge 10


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


Latvia destroys Finland to secure spot for 2013 EuroBasket in France - by Eurobasket News

LATVIA - FINLAND 80-47

Latvia destroyed Finland 80-47 on Wednesday to book a spot for 2013 EuroBasket in France. Thanks to this victory Latvia finished as the second ranked team of Group E with 5-3 record. Finland at the other side dropped to 3-4 and they will meet Italy on Saturday. Italy will be the winner of this group as they already celebrated in 6 games. Zane Teilane-Tamane (200-C-83, agency: LBM Management, college: W.Illinois) had amazing game collecting 16 points and 24 rebounds (valuation 37!). Kristine Karklina (175-G-83, agency: Regeneracom Sports) scored 15 points and Liene Jansone (191-F/C-81, college: Siena) added 12 pts, 6 boards and 5 assists. Visitors got 9 points from Dionne Pounds (174-F-84, agency: Regeneracom Sports, college: Lamar) (8 rebs) and Emmi Leino (182-F/G-94). Tiina Sten (189-G/F-85, agency: Regeneracom Sports, college: St.John's) stopped to 7 pts in this meeting. Latvia dominated during the entire game increasing their lead each minute. Quarters: 30-17, 16-12, 16-7, 18-11. Saturday is the last day of qualifications.

Latvia: Zane Teilane-Tamane 16+24 boards, Kristine Karklina 15, Liene Jansone 12+6 boards+5 as
Finland: Dionne Pounds 9+8 boards, Emmi Leino 9, Tiina Sten 7


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


Lithuania closes qualifications with victory, advances to EuroBasket in France - by Eurobasket News

LITHUANIA - BELGIUM 61-53

Lithuania was better than Belgium 61-53 in Round 9 of 2013 EuroBasket Qualifications. The hosts finished qualifications with 6-2 record in Group C and secured a spot for EuroBasket. If Slovakia fails in the last round, Lithuania will be the winner of this group. If not, Lithuania will finish as No.2, but that is just the formality as both teams already booked a ticket for France. Belgium faced with seventh loss (0-7) and closes the standings in this pool. Lithuania had to work hard until the end to grab this victory. Quarters: 17-14, 13-16, 16-14, 15-9. Their key player was Gintare Petronyte (196-C-89) with double-double of 19 points and 19 rebounds (valuation 31). Inesa Visgaudaite (172-PG-91) scored 9 points and Giedre Paugaite (192-C-90) added 8 pts, plus 6 boards. Anne-Sophie Strubbe (182-SF-90) answered with 15 points and 6 rebounds in defeat. Emma Meesseman (192-C-93, agency: LBM Management) almost had double-double 11 pts and 9 rebs, while Laurence Van Malderen (190-C-81, agency: LBM Management) posted 8 pts and 6 boards.

Lithuania: Gintare Petronyte 19+19 boards, Inesa Visgaudaite 9, Giedre Paugaite 8+6 boards
Belgium: Anne-Sophie Strubbe 15+6 boards, Emma Meesseman 11+9 boards, Laurence Van Malderen 8+6 boards


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


India edge Malaysia in Taiwan - by Eurobasket News

India - Malaysia 75:62

India finished their William Jones Cup invitational tournament campaign on a high note. They defeated Malaysia to finish in the fourth position at 2-3 record. Malaysia fell at 1-4 record after the loss. Anna Jose Geethu (185-C-85) stepped up with 22 points, 15 rebounds and 6 assists to lead the winners.
India pulled ahead in the opening frame. They recorded a 19:14 lead after ten minutes. India maintained the lead and stretched it to as many as 13 points at halftime 38:25. India stayed in front throughout the third term. They boosted the gap to 19 points before the final quarter. Malaysia tried to change the complexion of the game in the fourth frame. They partially succeeded outscoring their opponents but came up short of victory at the end. Akanksha Singh (168-G-89) had 17 points and 8 rebounds, while Skaria Palanilkumkalayil finished with 11 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. Fook Yee Yap (174-F-93) and Hui Pin Pang (176-90) answered with 14 points each for Malaysia.

India: Anna Jose Geethu 22+15 boards, Akanksha Singh 17, Skaria Palanikumkalayil 11+11 boards
Malaysia: Fook Yee Yap 14, Hui Pin Pang 14


*****************************************************
  MALTA   


Malta has no mercy for Moldova in EuroBasket Division C - by Eurobasket News

Moldova - Malta 23-72

Malta had no mercy for Moldova in Day One of the 2013 European Championship for Small Countries (Division C). Malta celebrated impressive 23-72 against its rival improving to 1-0 score in Group A. Scotland was better than Azerbaijan yesterday, so Malta and Scotland share the first place in this pool after Round One. Ashleigh Vella (188-F/C-90) stepped up for the winners with double-double of 13 points and 13 rebounds. Rebecca Thoresen (178-F/G-78) also scored 13 points and Elena Cassar (179-PG-92) added 12 points, plus 7 rebounds. Moldova did not have anyone with double digits in scoring. Anastasiya Lavric (170-PG-90) and A Causen posted 7 and 4 pts respectively. Malta dominated at the both sides of the court and they only slowed down in the last period when (of course) everything was already clear. Quarters: 3-27, 6-20, 3-15, 11-10. Malta will meet Scotland today and the winner will mostly likely end as No.1 of this group at the end of the Preliminary Round. Moldova will meet Azerbaijan.

Moldova: Anastasiya Lavric 7, Ala Causan (178-SG-75) 4+4 boards
Malta: Ashleigh Vella 13+13 boards, Rebecca Thoresen 13, Elena Cassar 12+7 boards


*****************************************************
  MOLDOVA   


Malta has no mercy for Moldova in EuroBasket Division C - by Eurobasket News

Moldova - Malta 23-72

Malta had no mercy for Moldova in Day One of the 2013 European Championship for Small Countries (Division C). Malta celebrated impressive 23-72 against its rival improving to 1-0 score in Group A. Scotland was better than Azerbaijan yesterday, so Malta and Scotland share the first place in this pool after Round One. Ashleigh Vella (188-F/C-90) stepped up for the winners with double-double of 13 points and 13 rebounds. Rebecca Thoresen (178-F/G-78) also scored 13 points and Elena Cassar (179-PG-92) added 12 points, plus 7 rebounds. Moldova did not have anyone with double digits in scoring. Anastasiya Lavric (170-PG-90) and A Causen posted 7 and 4 pts respectively. Malta dominated at the both sides of the court and they only slowed down in the last period when (of course) everything was already clear. Quarters: 3-27, 6-20, 3-15, 11-10. Malta will meet Scotland today and the winner will mostly likely end as No.1 of this group at the end of the Preliminary Round. Moldova will meet Azerbaijan.

Moldova: Anastasiya Lavric 7, Ala Causan (178-SG-75) 4+4 boards
Malta: Ashleigh Vella 13+13 boards, Rebecca Thoresen 13, Elena Cassar 12+7 boards


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


Montenegro books ticket for 2013 EuroBasket in France - by Eurobasket News

MONTENEGRO - ESTONIA 81-61

Expected win for Montenegro, who finished 2013 EuroBasket Qualifications with 6-2 record. That will be enough for the first place in Group B and of course for the EuroBasket ticket. Montenegro entered to qualifications with big ambitions and they managed to meet all expectations. At the other side, Estonia faced with seventh loss in this pool. Iva Perovanovic (189-C/F-83) top-scored in Montenegro with 23 points and she also pulled down 6 rebounds. Jelena Skerovic (176-G-80, agency: Josep and Nicolas) almost registered triple-double in this game with 19 pts, 11 as and 8 rebs, while Snezana Aleksic (172-G-89) netted 14 pts (5 rebs). In Estonia, Merike Anderson (180-F/G-81, agency: LBM Management) delivered 22 points. Valeria Kast (201-C-87, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: N.Mexico) scored 12 pts and grabbed 7 rebs. Montenegro exploded in the first half making 25-point lead. Quarters: 23-14, 29-13, 16-17, 13-17. Estonia will host Serbia on Saturday to close the qualifications.

Montenegro: Iva Perovanovic 23+6 boards, Jelena Skerovic 19+11 as+8 boards, Snezana Aleksic 14+5 boards
Estonia: Merike Anderson 22, Valeria Kast 12+7 boards


*****************************************************
  NCAA3   


Chunghwa Telecom prevail against Chapman University - by Eurobasket News

Chunghwa Telecom - Chapman University 112:47

Chunghwa Telecom accounted for the fourth win at the William Jones Cup. They defeated Chapman University on the final day of the competition to clinch the second place in the ladder. Hsu Chien-Hui (171-G/F-89) came up with 24 points, 9 assists and 6 boards to pace the winners. Chapman University finished the tourney winless.
Chunghwa Telecom buried 35 points in the first term to take a 23-point lead. They stretched the margin to 30 points at halftime 52:22. Things got even worse for the North American team in the third quarter. Chunghwa Telecom poured in 33 points to clear off to an unassailable lead. They coasted from there on posting a comfortable win at the end. Wang Wei-Lin (180-F-93) had 18 points and 10 rebounds for Chunghwa Telecom. Yang Shu-Ching (170-G-88) added 12 points for the winners. Kimi Takaoka answered with 19 points for Chapman University. Stephanie Servin netted 10 points in the loss.

Chunghwa Telecom: Hsu Chien-Hui 24, Wang Wei-Lin 18+10 boards, Yang Shu-Ching 12
Chapman University: Kimi Takaoka 19, Stephanie Servin 10


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


Nataliya Trofimowa signs with ROW Rybnik - by Eurobasket News

Nataliya Trofimowa (186-F-79) signs with ROW Rybnik for the next season. The Belarus International will remain in Poland but with another team.
The season 2011-2012 she started for LKS Siemens AGD Lodz (Poland-PLKK, starting five) and averaged 10.0ppg, 5.5rpg, 2.3apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 38.6%, 3PT-3 (47.1%), FT: 77.8%. In January Matizol Lider Pruszkow added Nataliya Trofimowa to their roster. Belorussian forward replaced Charity Szczechowiak, whose contract ended with 2011 year. For Matizol Lider Pruszkow (Poland-PLKK, starting five) her stats read 7.6ppg, 5.5rpg, 2.2apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 43.2%, 3PT: 32.8%, FT: 81.0%.
Nataliya Trofimowa is well experienced player. She has been playing in PLKK for some years. Belorussian forward have got a lot achievements. She have been in Belarus NT from 2003.


Serbia beats Poland by five in crucial game - by Eurobasket News

SERBIA - POLAND 67-62

Serbia handed 67-62 loss to Poland in Round Nine of the 2013 EuroBasket Qualifications. Most likely it was the crucial game for the second place in Group B. Thanks to this victory Serbia joined Poland with 5-2 record and also Serbia holds a tiebreaker as Poland won in Round 4 with only 2 pts. If Serbia beats last ranked Estonia on Saturday they will advance to EuroBasket. Estonia will be the host. Poland can only hope that Estonia can surprise Serbia and also Poland has to beat Switzerland at home. Ana Dabovic (183-G/F-89) scored 20 points for Serbia tonight and Tamara Radocaj (170-PG-87) added 13 pts. Jelena Maksimovic (192-C-82) followed them with 8 points and 9 rebounds. Poland got 13 points from Agnieszka Skobel (179-F-89) and Agnieszka Szott (185-F-82, agency: Data Plus Group). Martyna Koc (186-C-83, agency: Promotex) stopped to 11 pts.
Skobel made a triple for Poland with 8 seconds remaining cutting the margin to 63-62. However, Dabovic was sent to the line after that and she made both free throws. Poland had six seconds for the last possession, but Marina Mandic made a steal and Jovanovic made it at the buzzer for the final 67-62 victory. Quarters: 19-12, 16-20, 10-14, 22-16. Saturday is the last day of qualification.

Serbia: Ana Dabovic 20, Tamara Radocaj 13, Jelena Maksimovic 8+9 boards
Poland: Agnieszka Skobel 13, Agnieszka Szott 13, Martyna Koc 11


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


Spain beats Romania to end EuroBasket qualifications, advances to final tournament in France - by Eurobasket News

SPAIN - ROMANIA 68-54

Spain finished 2013 EuroBasket Qualifications with 68-54 home win against Romania. The hosts registered 6-2 record in Group D and booked a ticket for EuroBasket in France. Spain will be the winner of this pool if Sweden fails against Germany in the last round. If not, Spain will end as No.2. At the other side, Romania fell to 2-5 and will meet Bulgaria in the last round. Spain shined in first and third period to take the victory on Wednesday night. Quarters: 25-13, 13-14, 17-8, 13-19. Cristina Ouvina (174-G-90) had 11 points and 5 rebs for the winners, and Marta Xargay Casademont (180-G-90, agency: Josep and Nicolas) scored 10 pts. Anna Cruz (173-PG-86, agency: Josep and Nicolas) and Elisa Aguilar (177-G-76, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: G.Washington) posted 9 points each. Elisabeth Pavel (192-C-90) answered with 22 points and 7 rebounds for the guests. Annemarie Parau (175-G-84) and Gabriela Marginean (182-F-87, college: Drexel) posted 10 points apiece. Saturday is the last day of qualifications.

Spain: Cristina Ouvina 11+5 boards, Marta Xargay Casademont 10, Anna Cruz 9, Elisa Aguilar 9
Romania: Elisabeth Pavel 22+7 boards, Annemarie Parau 10, Gabriela Marginean 10


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


Scotland beats Azerbaijan in Day One in Ohrid - by Eurobasket News

Scotland - Azerbaijan 73-54

Scotland had a nice start at 2013 European Championship for Small Countries (Division C). They outplayed Azerbaijan 73-54 for 1-0 score in Group A in Ohrid, FYROM. Scotland was better in every single period of this game for the final 19-point victory (12-11, 19-13, 20-12, 22-18). Malta and Moldova are also placed to this group and all teams fight for the first two places. Those two teams will advance to Semifinals, while 3rd and 4th ranked countries will go to classification games. Rona Corkindale (177-F-86) was a key player in victory with 29 points and 9 rebounds. Siobhan Moore (185-C-87, college: Bridgeport) (6 rebs) scored 16 points and Mairi Buchan (188-C/F-90) (5 rebs) added five less. In Azerbaijan, Dina Ulyanova (185-SF-89) shined with double-double of 27 points and 12 rebounds.Tatyana Deniskina (173-SG-85) posted 18 pts. In Day Two, Scotland will meet Malta. Azerbaijan will play against Moldova.

Scotland: Rona Corkindale 29+9 boards, Siobhan Moore 16+5 boards, Mairi Buchan 11+5 boards
Azerbaijan: Dina Ulyanova 27+12 boards, Tatyana Deniskina 18


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


Serbia beats Poland by five in crucial game - by Eurobasket News

SERBIA - POLAND 67-62

Serbia handed 67-62 loss to Poland in Round Nine of the 2013 EuroBasket Qualifications. Most likely it was the crucial game for the second place in Group B. Thanks to this victory Serbia joined Poland with 5-2 record and also Serbia holds a tiebreaker as Poland won in Round 4 with only 2 pts. If Serbia beats last ranked Estonia on Saturday they will advance to EuroBasket. Estonia will be the host. Poland can only hope that Estonia can surprise Serbia and also Poland has to beat Switzerland at home. Ana Dabovic (183-G/F-89) scored 20 points for Serbia tonight and Tamara Radocaj (170-PG-87) added 13 pts. Jelena Maksimovic (192-C-82) followed them with 8 points and 9 rebounds. Poland got 13 points from Agnieszka Skobel (179-F-89) and Agnieszka Szott (185-F-82, agency: Data Plus Group). Martyna Koc (186-C-83, agency: Promotex) stopped to 11 pts.
Skobel made a triple for Poland with 8 seconds remaining cutting the margin to 63-62. However, Dabovic was sent to the line after that and she made both free throws. Poland had six seconds for the last possession, but Marina Mandic made a steal and Jovanovic made it at the buzzer for the final 67-62 victory. Quarters: 19-12, 16-20, 10-14, 22-16. Saturday is the last day of qualification.

Serbia: Ana Dabovic 20, Tamara Radocaj 13, Jelena Maksimovic 8+9 boards
Poland: Agnieszka Skobel 13, Agnieszka Szott 13, Martyna Koc 11


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


Slovakia cruises past Holland, advances to 2013 EuroBasket - by Eurobasket News

HOLLAND - SLOVAKIA 51-66

Slovakia booked a ticket for 2013 EuroBasket in France. They handed 51-66 home loss to Holland on Wednesday night for almost perfect 6-1 record in Group C. Slovakia will have a chance to win this pool if they beat Slovenia in the last round of qualifications. That game is scheduled for Saturday. At the other side, Holland fell to 2-5 and their last rival will be Belgium. Slovakia had impressive first half of the game making 18-point lead. They had no troubles to keep it for rest of the way. Quarters: 18-24, 9-21, 13-11, 11-10. Lucia Kupcikova (184-F-84) shined with 20 points and 5 rebounds for the guests and Anna Jurcenkova (195-C-85) added 12 pts, plus 11 boards. Ivana Jalcova (182-G-83) collected 9 points and 5 rebs. For the hosts, Marianne Van der Hoek (180-F-90) delivered 15 points and Naomi Halman (191-F/C-86, agency: Regeneracom Sports, college: Cal-Irvine) had one less, plus 9 rebounds. Tanya Broering (178-G-84) was limited to 7 pts and 5 rebs.

Holland: Marianne Van der Hoek 15, Naomi Halman 14+9 boards, Tanya Broering 7+5 boards
Slovakia: Lucia Kupcikova 20+5 boards, Anna Jurcenkova 12+11 boards, Ivana Jalcova 9+5 boards


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


Spain beats Romania to end EuroBasket qualifications, advances to final tournament in France - by Eurobasket News

SPAIN - ROMANIA 68-54

Spain finished 2013 EuroBasket Qualifications with 68-54 home win against Romania. The hosts registered 6-2 record in Group D and booked a ticket for EuroBasket in France. Spain will be the winner of this pool if Sweden fails against Germany in the last round. If not, Spain will end as No.2. At the other side, Romania fell to 2-5 and will meet Bulgaria in the last round. Spain shined in first and third period to take the victory on Wednesday night. Quarters: 25-13, 13-14, 17-8, 13-19. Cristina Ouvina (174-G-90) had 11 points and 5 rebs for the winners, and Marta Xargay Casademont (180-G-90, agency: Josep and Nicolas) scored 10 pts. Anna Cruz (173-PG-86, agency: Josep and Nicolas) and Elisa Aguilar (177-G-76, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: G.Washington) posted 9 points each. Elisabeth Pavel (192-C-90) answered with 22 points and 7 rebounds for the guests. Annemarie Parau (175-G-84) and Gabriela Marginean (182-F-87, college: Drexel) posted 10 points apiece. Saturday is the last day of qualifications.

Spain: Cristina Ouvina 11+5 boards, Marta Xargay Casademont 10, Anna Cruz 9, Elisa Aguilar 9
Romania: Elisabeth Pavel 22+7 boards, Annemarie Parau 10, Gabriela Marginean 10


Spanish U16 National Team 2012 - by Greg

Spanish U16 National Team 2012
#s#
Ana Calvo
Calvo
Elena Capella
Capella
Maria Cazorla
Cazorla
Laia Clavero
Clavero
Itsaso Conde
Conde
#e#5
Ana Calvo 183-F-96 Segle XXI Spain
Elena Capella 171-G-96
Maria Cazorla 180-SG-97 Segle XXI Spain
Laia Clavero 186-PF-96
Itsaso Conde 185-PF-96
Laia Flores 170-SF-96
Marta Garcia 182-C-96
Irene Lahuerta 173-PG-96
Isabel Latorre 169-PG-96
Nogaye Lo Sylla 96
Maria Martianez 181-F-97
Mariona Martin 169-SG-96
Isabel Martinez 173-PG-96 Segle XXI Spain
Cristina Molinuevo 179-G-96
Helena Orts 184-F-96
Laura Quevedo 193-F-96 Real Canoe Spain
Claudia Quevedo 184-G/F-96
Carla Romeu 189-C-96
Angela Salvadores 175-PG-97
Betania Simon 184-PF-96 Segle XXI Spain
Paula Vicente 175-G-96
Sara Zaragoza 193-C-96

Evaristo Perez Head Coach Burgos Spain
Andreu Bou Assistant Cadi la Seu Spain



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


Cathay Life cruise past Japan to win William Jones Cup - by Eurobasket News

Cathay Life - Japan 91:51

Cathay Life clinched the title at the William Jones Cup invitational tournament. They fired past Japan for the fifth straight win. Chiang Feng-Chun (184-F-81) scored 18 points to lead the effort. Japan fell at 3-2 record and occupied the third position.
Cathay Life gave no chance for the visitors. They went on a 26:13 run in the opening quarter. Cathay Life stretched the gap to 14 points at halftime 42:28. They outscored Japan 24:9 in the third term to take a 29-point lead before the fourth term. Cathay Life did not look back in the fourth quarter marching to the victory at the end. Chen Yu-Chun (176-F-87) knocked down 17 points, while Liu Chun-Yi (180-F/C-81) added 16 points for the winners. Riko Kakuhata answered with 12 points for Japan. Yuka Kosuge had 10 points in the loss.

Cathay Life: Chiang Feng-Chun 18, Chen Yu-Chun 17, Liu Chun-Yi 16
Japan: Riko Kakuhata 12, Yuka Kosuge 10


Chunghwa Telecom prevail against Chapman University - by Eurobasket News

Chunghwa Telecom - Chapman University 112:47

Chunghwa Telecom accounted for the fourth win at the William Jones Cup. They defeated Chapman University on the final day of the competition to clinch the second place in the ladder. Hsu Chien-Hui (171-G/F-89) came up with 24 points, 9 assists and 6 boards to pace the winners. Chapman University finished the tourney winless.
Chunghwa Telecom buried 35 points in the first term to take a 23-point lead. They stretched the margin to 30 points at halftime 52:22. Things got even worse for the North American team in the third quarter. Chunghwa Telecom poured in 33 points to clear off to an unassailable lead. They coasted from there on posting a comfortable win at the end. Wang Wei-Lin (180-F-93) had 18 points and 10 rebounds for Chunghwa Telecom. Yang Shu-Ching (170-G-88) added 12 points for the winners. Kimi Takaoka answered with 19 points for Chapman University. Stephanie Servin netted 10 points in the loss.

Chunghwa Telecom: Hsu Chien-Hui 24, Wang Wei-Lin 18+10 boards, Yang Shu-Ching 12
Chapman University: Kimi Takaoka 19, Stephanie Servin 10


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  TURKEY   


EuroCup Women 2012/13 Clubs Announced - by Pervin Elgin

FIBA Europe has announced the list of teams that will participate in the 2012/13 edition of EuroCup Women. 30 teams will take part in the Regular Season which tips-off on 3rd November. They will be drawn into six (6) groups of four (4) teams each and two (2) groups of three (3) teams. The top two (2) teams in each group, 16 teams in total, will qualify for the Play-Offs of the competition. The draw takes place in Freising, Germany on Friday 6th July at approximately 11:15 CET.
The 30 clubs that will enter the draw (in alphabetical order) are:

Basket Landes (FRA)
Kibirkstis-Tiche-Iki Vilnius (LTU)

Basket Lattes Montpellier Agglomeration (FRA)
Lotto Young Cats Brussels (BEL)

BBC Sint Katelijne-Waver (BEL)
Mersin BB SK (TUR)

Belfius Namur (BEL)
Nantes Reze (FRA)

Botas SC Adana (TUR)
Olimpia Grodno (BLR)

Chevakata Vologda (RUS)
Partizan Galenika Belgrade (SRB)

CSM Satu Mare (ROU)
Ruzomberok (SVK)

Dunav 8806 Ruse (BUL)
Saint-Amand Hainaut Basket (FRA)

Dynamo GUVD Novosibirsk (RUS)
SISU Gentofte (DEN)

Dynamo Kursk (RUS)
Sdetlje BBK (SWE)

Dynamo Moscow (RUS)
Spartak Noginsk (RUS)

Elitzur Ramla (ISR)
Tarbes GB (FRA)

Homend Antakya Belediyesi (TUR)
TED Ankara Kolejliler (TUR)

Horizont Minsk (BLR)
TSV Wasserburg (GER)

Kayseri K.S. (TUR)
VS Prague (CZE)



Turkish U16 National Team 2012 - by Greg

Turkish U16 National Team 2012
#s#
Gozde Albayrak
Albayrak
Basak Altunbey
Altunbey
Niray Aral
Aral
Aylin Darinc
Darinc
Betul Erkoyuncu
Erkoyuncu
#e#5
Gozde Albayrak 178-PF-96
Basak Altunbey 187-C-96
Niray Aral 187-C-97
Aylin Darinc 185-F-96
Betul Erkoyuncu 186-C-96
Melis Gulcan 180-G-96
Beylem Ilba 176-SF-96
Rojin Karahan 172-SF-96
Selale Kepenc 186-SF-98
Selin Kesen 173-SF-96
Irem Kikiler 173-G/F-97
Melisa Korkmaz 172-PG-97
Betul Kutlu 170-SG-97
Ezgi Manlaci 175-G-96
Irem Ocal 178-SG-96
Buse Ocal 168-PG-96
Serife Onar 167-PG-96
Buse Ozek 191-C-96
Buse Ozturk 180-SF-96
Idil Turk 173-SG-96
Yaren Uslular 167-PG-97
Sevgi Uzun 170-PG-97
Ozlem Yenidunya 180-PF-96
Ilknur Yildizhan 183-PF-96

Firat Okul Head Coach Istanbul Univ. Turkey
Murat Kaya Assistant
Halil Demirbilek Assistant Botas Turkey



Galatasaray officially confirms signing of Sancho Lyttle - by Eurobasket News

Its finally official. Today the Turkish giant Galatasaray confirmed signing of Sancho Lyttle (192-C-83, college: Houston) for the next season. The Spanish center helped led Ros Casares to the Euroleague title earlier this year. She had 12.8 ppg, 7.4 rpg, 2.4 apg and 2.3 spg for 17 games. They also won the title in Spanish league, where Lyttle added 12.4 ppg and 8.3 rpg for 28 games. Unfortunately, the team went bankrupt during off-season. Lyttle won Euroleague and Spanish league titles also with Perfumerias a year ago. She currently plays for the WNBA team Atlanta Dream. Lyttle averages impressive 14.8 points, 7.8 rebounds, 2.5 steals and 2.4 assists.
Sancho Lyttle is a member of the Spanish NT since 2010. She paced them to Bronze at 2010 World Championship in Czech Republic. For 8 games at this event Lyttle had 18.4 ppg, 11.5 rpg and 1.8 spg for 8 games. She was named Eurobasket.com All-World Championships Best Center. Sancho Lyttle also was good at 2011 EuroBasket in Poland. There she had 11.7 ppg, 5.3 rpg and 2.5 apg for 6 games. Eurobasket awarded her with All-European Championships Honorable Mention -11. Lyttle played one game for Spain in 2013 EuroBasket Qualifications.


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


Belarus wins Group A, advances to 2013 EuroBasket - by Eurobasket News

BELARUS - UKRAINE 68-60

Belarus booked a ticket for 2013 EuroBasket in France. They outplayed Ukraine tonight 68-60 for 6-2 record in Group A. Belarus is the winner of this pool and already played all of its eight games. Ukraine dropped to 4-3, but still has a nice chance to take the second place. They will have to beat Hungary on Saturday in do-or-die game. Anastasiya Veremeenko (194-C-87) led Belarus today with double-double of 20 points and 10 rebounds. Natalia Anufryienka (174-G-85, agency: LBM Management) had 16 points and 5 rebs, and Alexandra Tarasava (170-PG-88) posted 12 pts. In Ukraine, Alina Iagupova (186-G-92, agency: LBM Management) was better than the others with 16 points and 8 rebs. Olexandra Kurasova (186-F-86) (5 as) and Viktoria Mircheva (190-C-87) posted 11 and 10 pts respectively. Quarters: 19-12, 21-11, 9-16, 19-21. Ukraine will be the host on Saturday.

Belarus: Anastasiya Veremeenko 20+10 boards, Natalia Anufryienka 16+5 boards, Alexandra Tarasava 12
Ukraine: Alina Iagupova 16+8 boards, Olexandra Kurasova 11+5 as, Viktoria Mircheva 10


*****************************************************
  WALES   


Austria too strong for Wales in Ohrid - by Eurobasket News

Austria - Wales 72-30

Australia and Wales met yesterday in Day One of the 2012 European Championship for Small Countries (Division C). Austria destroyed its rival with huge 72-30 for 1-0 record in Group B. Participants of the same pool are also Gibraltar and FYROM (host). Two best teams will advance to Semifinals. Katharina Podoschek (168-G-80) led the winners with 14 points and 5 rebounds, while Margit Forcher (177-G-76) helped with 12 points and 6 rebs. Sophia Plank (178-G/F-83) was third scorer in victory with 11 points. At the other side, Laura Shanahan (170-G-89) delivered 10 pts and Amelia Reynolds (176-G/F-91) stopped to 6. Austria took control on its rival from the beginning and never looked back. Quarters: 26-3, 9-10, 21-8, 16-9. Today, Austria will meet FYROM, while Wales will play against Gibraltar.

Austria: Katharina Podoschek 14+5 boards, Margit Forcher 12+6 boards, Sophia Plank 11
Wales: Laura Shanahan 10, Amelia Reynolds 6


*****************************************************
  WILLIAM JONES CUP   


2012 Jones Cup women final day: Cathay Life wins tourney - by Chris Wang

2012 Jones Cup women final day: Cathay Life wins tourney

India 75-62 Malaysia
Chunghua Telecom 112-47 Chapman
Cathay Life 91-51 Japan

1. Boxscores are available at http://2012wjc.basketball-tpe.org/files/600-1008-86.php
2. Boxscores screengrabs have been uploaded to this link.
https://www.box.com/s/107e970b031a22d87302

Final Standings:
1. Cathay Life 5-0
2. Chunghua Telecom 4-1
3. Japan 3-2
4. India 2-3
5. Malaysia 1-4
6. Chapman 0-5


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

Standings

WNBA Standings
Eastern
 1. Connecticut S. 14-4 
 2. Indiana F. 10-6 
 3. Atlanta D. 9-9 
 4. Chicago S. 8-8 
 5. New York L. 6-11 
 6. Washington M. 4-14 
Western
 1. Minnesota L. 14-4 
 2. L.Angeles S. 13-7 
 3. S.Antonio SS 12-5 
 4. Seattle S. 9-10 
 5. Phoenix M. 4-14 
 6. Tulsa S. 3-14 

Regular Season: Round 22

Jul. 10: Tulsa S. - Minnesota L. 86-107
Jul. 11: Connecticut S. - Washington M. 85-73
Jul. 10: Indiana F. - New York L. 84-82
Jul. 10: Phoenix M. - L.Angeles S. 71-90
Jul. 10: Washington M. - Connecticut S. 70-77
Jul. 11: Chicago S. - S.Antonio SS 68-77
Jul. 11: Seattle S. - Atlanta D. 59-70

Regular Season: Round 23

Jul. 12: Minnesota L. - Tulsa S.
Jul. 12: Indiana F. - L.Angeles S.
Jul. 13: New York L. - Washington M.
Jul. 13: S.Antonio SS - Atlanta D.
Jul. 13: Chicago S. - Connecticut S.
Jul. 13: Phoenix M. - Seattle S.


Lawson, Charles lead Sun in 77-70 win over Mystics; Catchings' late FTs lift Fever past Liberty - by Eurobasket News

After struggling on the road last season, the Connecticut Sun are thriving away from home this year. Kara Lawson (5'8''-PG-81, college: Tennessee) scored 17 points and Tina Charles (6'4''-C-88, agency: LBM Management, college: Connecticut) had 16 as Eastern Conference-leading Connecticut beat the last-place Washington Mystics 77-70 on Tuesday for their third straight win. Tan White added 11 points to help the Sun (13-4) improved to a league-best 7-1 on the road after going 6-11 a year ago. Connecticut has won all three meetings with Washington this season including two on the road and the last seven overall. Crystal Langhorne scored 15 points and Michelle Snow had 10 points and 11 rebounds for the Mystics (3-13). Matee Ajavon added 13 points, Monique Currie had 12 and Noelle Quinn 10 for the Mystics. Washington finished with a 38-23 rebounding edge, including 15-3 on offensive boards, but has lost three straight and seven of its last eight.

Tamika Catchings scored 23 points, including the winning free throws with 8.4 seconds left, to give the Indiana Fever an 84-82 victory over the New York Liberty on Tuesday.
Katie Douglas (6'1''-G/F-79, college: Purdue) scored 20 points and Shavonte Zellous (5'10''-G-86, college: Pittsburgh) added 12 as the Fever (10-6) squandered a 12-point lead and trailed by four in the final minutes before rallying. Cappie Pondexter scored a season-high 33 points and Essence Carson added 14 for the Liberty (6-11), who have lost two straight and six of nine. Trailing 73-70 midway through the fourth quarter, the Liberty scored seven consecutive points to take their biggest lead. Catchings made two 3s to regain the lead for the Fever with less than 2 minutes to go.
Pondexter hit a tying jumper, and Douglas and Pondexter traded 3-pointers 14 seconds apart to leave the score tied at 82 with 35.5 seconds to go.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com


Wiggins, Moore help Lynx roll past Shock, 107-86; Sparks beat Mercury 90-71 - by Eurobasket News

Candice Wiggins (5'11''-G-87, college: Stanford) scored 25 points, Maya Moore (6'0''-F-89, college: Connecticut) had 24 and the Minnesota Lynx beat the Tulsa Shock 107-86 on Tuesday. Seimone Augustus added 17 points, Lindsay Whalen had 14 and Taj McWilliams-Franklin 12 for the Lynx (13-4). Wiggins and Moore both shot 8 for 12 from the field, with Wiggins going 6 for 9 on 3-pointers. Ivory Latta led the Shock (3-13) with 25 points on 10 for 14 shooting, including 5 for 8 on 3s. Kayla Pedersen added 12 points and Glory Johnson had 11. Tulsa jumped out to an early lead but the Lynx rallied in the second quarter to take a 51-46 lead at the break. Minnesota increased the margin to 10 points in the third before the Shock pulled to 76-75 in the opening minute of the fourth. However, Wiggins had eight points, including two 3s, during an 18-2 run as the Lynx pulled away. (Courtesy of www.waow.com)

Candace Parker (6'4''-F/C-86, college: Tennessee) had 22 points and 14 rebounds to lead the Los Angeles Sparks to a 90-71 victory over the Phoenix Mercury for their fourth straight win. Kristi Toliver (5'7''-PG-87, college: Maryland) added 19 points and six assists and Nneka Ogwumike had 11 points and 14 rebounds for Los Angeles (14-6). Parker also had four assists and three blocks. The Sparks trail defending champion Minnesota by one game in the Western Conference.DeWanna Bonner and rookie Sammy Prahalis both had 14 points and seven rebounds to lead the Mercury (4-14). Alexis Gray-Lawson added 13 points and Krystal Thomas scored 11. (Courtesy of ESPN)