Unics propose Pops Mensah Bonsu 1,4 million per season - by Eurobasket News

Unics propose Pops Mensah-Bonsu (206-F-83, agency: SportsTalent, college: G.Washington) 1,4 million per season if the player joins the team. The Russian team continues to target Eurobasket.com All-EuroChallenge Player of the Year.
Last year Pops Mensah-Bonsu played for Besiktas Milangaz and won three titles with the team. His Besiktas managed to beat Anadolu Efes 80-76 in Game Six of the Turkish league Finals winning the title with 4-2 in the series. Pops Mensah-Bonsu shined in this game with 10 points and 8 rebounds for 26 minutes on the court. He was named Eurobasket.com All-Turkish League Center of the Year -12 and made it into Eurobasket.com All-Turkish League 1st Team -12. This is third trophy for Besiktas this year as they already celebrated in Turkish Cup and EuroChallenge.
He played 11 games in EuroChallenge registering 18.5 ppg, 11.8 rpg, 1.3 apg and 1 bpg. Pops Mensah-Bonsu also was the Finals MVP and Eurobasket.com named him Eurobasket.com All-EuroChallenge Player of the Year -12. In Turkish league, the center had 12.8 ppg and 7.8 rpg for 33 games.


Unicaja Malaga get's Fran Vazquez, in a trade deal - by Diamadis Farmakis

Unicaja Malaga strengthened its frontline and returned a star to his coming-of-age club by completing a trade with FC Barcelona Regal for the rights to shot-blocking king and 2010 Euroleague champ Fran Vazquez (209-C-83). Unicaja traded the rights to 19-year-old talent Alex Abrines to FC Barcelona Regal in exchange for the rights to Vazquez, who was under contract for an additional season in Barcelona.

Once the trade was completed, Unicaja promptly signed Vazquez (2.09 meters, 29 years old) to a two-year deal. Vazquez first came to Unicaja as an 18-year old and played three seasons with the club sandwiched around time on loan at Gran Canaria and Bilbao before heading north and playing one season with Akasvayu Girona and the past six with FC Barcelona.

With Barcelona, he reached three Euroleague Final Fours and won the title in 2010, when he set a championship game record with 4 rejections against Olympiacos. In his time with Barca, Vazquez re-wrote the Euroleague record books for blocked shots with 181, which is 41 more than former teammate Denis Marconato in second place and 69 more than the next active player. His average of 2.8 blocks per 40 minutes is third all-time and best among players with either 100 games played or 100 blocks.

He is also among the career leaders in field goal shooting at 62.36% - sixth on the career list. Last season Vazquez averaged 4.4 points, 3.2 rebounds and 1 block in 21 Turkish Airlines Euroleague games and 5.8 points, 4.2 boards and 1 blocks in 34 Spanish League games. He upped those numbers to 7.1 points, 4.7 rebounds and 1.6 blocks in the playoff to help Barcelona repeat as Spanish champion. It was his third Spanish League crown in his time with the club.


Andres Nocioni stays with Caja Laboral for 2012/13 - by Eurobasket News

Andres Nocioni (199-F-79) will stay with Caja Laboral for the next season. The player signed contract extension today. Nocioni returned to Caja Laboral in March. He played 12 games in Liga Endesa averaging 9.7 points and 3.5 rebounds. Nocioni started the season with Argentinean Penarol due to the NBA lockout. He joined Philadelphia 76er after that, but had very limited playing time in 10 games. In 2010/11 season, Nocioni averaged 6.1 points and 3.2 rebounds in 54 games with Philly. In the past, he played for Sacramento Kings and Chicago Bulls. Andres Nocioni played for Tau Ceramica (now Caja Laboral) from 1999 to 2004.
Earlier this summer, Cala Laboral stayed without Pablo Prigioni (191-G-77). Their superstar Mirza Teletovic (206-F-85, agency: Beo Basket) also left for the NBA. Nocioni was linked with few NBA teams these days (all rumors), but at the end he decided to stay with the former Spanish champs.


Partizan and Dusan Kecman part ways - by Eurobasket News

Dusan Kecman (197-F-77, agency: Beo Basket) is no longer a member of Partizan. His contract expired and will not be extended, according to local media. Earlier this month, Partizan parted ways with its longtime captain Petar Bozic (197-G-78). Kecman played 10 Euroleague games last season averaging 6.2 points and 2.5 rebounds. He had almost the same numbers in 27 Adriatic league games. In Serbian league, Kecman added 4.2 ppg and 1.7 apg. He helped Partizan to defend Serbian league title and Cup trophy.
Dusan Kecman returned to Partizan in 2009 from Panathinaikos Athens. He played for the Serbian powerhouse also from 2002 to 2004 and from 2006 to 2008. Kecman has experience from Greece, Turkey, Belgium, Ukraine and from the National Team as well.
According to online media, Partizan offered deal to center Elton Brown (206-C-83, college: Virginia). They gave up on returning Ratko Varda (216-C/F-79).


Mavroeidis status changes - by Dimitris Katsionis


According to sources close to the player Dimitris Mavroeidis (208-C-85) has made his mind to play for Olympiakos next year. The Greek center was close to Panathinaikos, which was looking for a quick center to pair Schortsianitis, but now he seems to accept Olympiakos's offer. Panathinaikos has already made a better financial proposal, but the player chooses to play under coach Bartzokas. Bartzokas coached Marousi BC 3 years ago, when Mavroeidis and Kostas Kaimakoglou (the team's frontline duo) had a breakout season, reaching one step before Euroleague playoffs. The 27-year old center has a proposal for a two-year contract from the Reds, for 300-350.000 euros per season, an offer lower comparing to what Panathinaikos brought to the table.


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Standings Standings Group E 1. Serbia 4-0 2. Germany 3-1 3. France 2-2 4. Russia 2-2 5. Greece 1-3 6. Ukraine 0-4 Group F 1. Slovenia 4-0 2. Turkey 2-2 3. Spain 2-2 4. Italy 2-2 5. Latvia 1-3 6. Lithuania 1-3 Group G (positions 13-16) 1. Sweden 2-0 2. Montenegro. 1-1 3. Estonia 1-1 4. Georgia 0-2 Second Stage: Round 5 E Jul. 17: SRB - GRE 86-69 Jul. 17: GER - RUS 74-59 Jul. 17: UKR - FRA 62-75 F Jul. 17: ESP - ITA 76-78 Jul. 17: LTU - LAT 75-78 Jul. 17: TUR - SLO 71-72 G Jul. 17: SWE - EST 69-66 Jul. 17: GEO - MNT 65-81 Second Stage: Round 6 E Jul. 18: GER - UKR Jul. 18: RUS - SRB Jul. 18: GRE - FRA F Jul. 18: ITA - LAT Jul. 18: TUR - LTU Jul. 18: SLO - ESP G Jul. 18: MNT - EST Jul. 18: GEO - SWE

Stats Leaders PPG RPG APG SPG BPG Points Per Game  Giannoulis LARENTZAKIS   (195-SG-93)   Avg: 19  1. Larentzakis, GRE 19.0   2. Pustovyi, UKR 18.4   3. Eriksson, SWE 17.6   4. Antonakis, GRE 17.0   5. Prepelic, SLO 17.0   6. Omic, SLO 16.6   7. Ulanovas, LTU 16.4   8. Sanadze, GEO 15.8   9. Burjanadze, GEO 15.8   10. Motsenigos, GRE 14.6  Rebounds Per Game  Vyacheslav BOBROV   (202-F-92)   Avg: 8.4  1. Bobrov, UKR 8.4   2. Pavic, MNT 8.2   3. Norman, SWE 8.0   4. Pustovyi, UKR 7.6   5. Paasoja, EST 7.6   6. Burjanadze, GEO 7.6   7. Omic, SLO 7.4   8. Cizauskas, LTU 7.0   9. Gaddefors, SWE 6.8   10. Abass, ITA 6.8  Assists Per Game  Klemen PREPELIC   (194-G-92)   Avg: 5.8  1. Prepelic, SLO 5.8   2. Artamonov, UKR 4.8   3. Antonakis, GRE 4.6   4. Redikas, LTU 4.2   5. Pajovic, MNT 4.2   6. Westermann, FRA 4.2   7. Laane, EST 4.0   8. Edge, TUR 3.8   9. Pkhakadze, GEO 3.8   10. Traini, ITA 3.8  Steals Per Game  Dovydas REDIKAS   (195-G-92)   Avg: 3.2  1. Redikas, LTU 3.2   2. Lagana, ITA 3.0   3. Timma, LAT 2.4   4. Pozas, ESP 2.3   5. Larentzakis, GRE 2.2   6. Barrera, ESP 1.8   7. Heckmann, GER 1.6   8. Laane, EST 1.6   9. Rupnik, SLO 1.4   10. Ulanovas, LTU 1.4  Blocks Per Game  Rudy GOBERT   (212-C-92)   Avg: 3.4  1. Gobert, FRA 3.4   2. Pustovyi, UKR 2.8   3. Silins, LAT 1.4   4. Orlenko, RUS 1.4   5. Omic, SLO 1.2   6. Olaizola, ESP 1.0   7. Nurger, EST 1.0   8. Gaddefors, SWE 1.0   9. Eriksson, SWE 0.8   10. Nikolic, MNT 0.8

Results and Stats from Day 2 of Second Stage - by Eurobasket News

Group E

Ukraine - France 62-75
France registered the second straight win at the Second Stage of U20 European Championship. They knocked down Ukrainian counterparts in Group E. France thus improved at 2-2 record, while Ukraine slipped at 0-4. Leo Westermann (198-G-92, agency: Beo Basket) accounted for 18 points and 5 assists to pace Les Bleus. France got to a sloppy start. Ukraine capitalized building a 21:15 lead ten minutes into the game. But France gradually adjusted their offence. They unloaded 26 points in the second quarter to gain a 4-point halftime lead. France boosted the lead in the third quarter. They ensured a 64:51 lead at the final break. The teams exchanged baskets throughout the fourth frame as France coasted to the victory. Axel Toupane (200-G/F-92) posted 13 points, while Hugo Invernizzi contributed 12 points for the winners. Artem Pustovyi (215-C-92, agency: Beo Basket) answered with 23 points for Ukraine. Vyacheslav Bobrov netted 11 points and grabbed 11 rebounds in the loss.

Serbia - Greece 86-69
Serbia secured the fifth straight win at the U20 European Championship. They fired past Greece to improve at 4-0 record in Group E. Nenad Miljenovic (194-G-93, agency: Beo Basket) came up with 16 points to lead the winners. Serbia and Greece traded baskets throughout the opening quarter. The scoreboard read 21:21 after ten minutes. Serbia pulled ahead for a narrow 38:37 halftime lead. The Balkan team surged ahead in the third quarter. Serbia unleashed 28 points to leave Greece far behind. The Hellenes faced a massive 17-point deficit before the fourth term. Serbia and Greece scored 20 points apiece in the final quarter as the Balkan team coasted to the victory. Bogdan Bogdanovic (197-F-92) accounted for 15 points, while Luka Mitrovic added 13 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Anastasios Antonakis (204-PF-92) notched 21 points for Greece. Giannoulis Larentzakis had 16 points in the loss.

Germany - Russia 74-59
German U20 National Team registered the second straight win at the Second Stage of European Championhip in Slovenia. They overcame Russia to improve at 3-1 record in Group E. Russia in the meantime suffered the second loss in a row and fell at 2-2 record. Johannes Voigtmann (210-C-92, agency: Limelight Hoops) came up with 15 points to lead the winners. Russia enjoyed a 17:16 lead ten minutes into the game. But Germany turned things around in the second quarter. They went on a 12:2 run midway through the period to ensure a 30:25 lead. Germany finished the half up by 8 points 37:29. Germany maintained the lead throughout the third term. They accumulated a 50:41 advantage at the final intermission. Germany opened the fourth frame with 9 points in a row to clear off. They never looked back cruising to the victory at the end. Patrick Heckmann (198-G/F-92) accounted for 12 points, while Daniel Theis added 11 points in the victory. Vladislav Trushkin (201-F-93) answered with 11 points for Russia. Aleksandr Gudumak netted 9 points in the loss.

Group F

Spain - Italy 76-78
Italy recorded the first win at the second stage of U20 European Championship. They knocked down Spain in Group F to catch up with their opponents at 2-2 record in the ladder. Awudu Abass (196-G-93) came up with 24 points and 12 rebounds for the winners. Spain led by as many as 6 points after ten minutes 28:22. But Italy slowed the reigning champions down in the second frame. The Azzurri got within 4 points at halftime 39:35. Italy denied the deficit and pulled in front for a 57:56 lead with ten minutes remaining. Pozas gave Spain a 66:63 lead midway through the final frame but Italy surged back in front. The Azzurri posted a 74:66 lead with under two minutes to go. Daniel Diez (203-F-93) and Alejandro Abrines kept Spain hopeful narrowing the deficit to just two points 76:78 but Servera missed a potential winner and Italy got away with a narrow win. Andrea Traini (184-PG-92) posted 18 points for Italy. Marco Ceron added 7 points in the victory. Daniel Diez answered with 17 points for Spain. Alejandro Abrines finished with 14 points in the losing case.

Lithuania - Latvia 75-78
Latvia remained in the quest for the quarterfinal spot after they narrowly defeated Lithuania in Group F action. Arnolds Helmanis (201-PF-92) and Janis Timma (201-F/G-92, agency: FCM) scored 15 points each to pace the winners. Latvia jumped to a 21:20 lead ten minutes into the game. Lithuania denied the deficit and surged ahead for a 40:39 halftime lead. Latvia restored the advantage in the third quarter. They held their Baltic neighbours to just 13 points in the period to ensure a 3-point lead before the fourth frame. The lead changed hands for several times throughout intense final quarter. Janis Timma and Silins gave Latvia a 76:73 lead with 12 seconds to go. Redikas narrowed the deficit but Marcis Vitols went perfect from the stripe and sealed the victory for Latvia. Marcis Vitols posted 13 points for the winners. Edgaras Ulanovas (197-G-92) answered with 15 points for Lithuania. Arnas Butkevicius posted 14 points in the loss.

Turkey - Slovenia 71-72
Slovenia remained undefeated at U20 European Championship. The hosts knocked down Turkey for the fifth straight win tonight. Klemen Prepelic (194-G-92) came up with 29 points to lead the winners. Slovenia are now at 4-0 record, while Turkey slipped at 2-2 in Group F. Turkey grabbed a 21:19 lead ten minutes into the game. Slovenia erased the distance and eked out a narrow 41:39 halftime lead. The teams stayed neck and neck throughout the third quarter. Calban capped the period with six points in a row to give the visitors a 60:56 lead. The lead grew at 8-point mark midway through the final quarter 66:58. However Gezim Morina (204-C/F-92) scored 6 points in an 8:2 run from Slovenia that cut the margin to two points. Klemen Prepelic and Alen Omic put the hosts in front 70:69. Tekin gave the lead back to Turkey but Gezim Morina converted a layup to seal the victory for Slovenia. Gezim Morina accounted for 13 points, while Alen Omic posted 12 points and 9 rebounds in the victory. Berkay Candan (204-F-93) answered with 15 points for Turkey. Ayhan Onur Kentli had 9 points in the loss.

Group G

Sweden - Estonia 69-66
Sweden grab thrilling win over Estonia the Classification Round for 13th to 16th Place. The Scandinavian team overcame the Baltic state 69:66 at the U20 European Championship. Estonia took 18:15 lead after the first period and added 16-11 in the second frame. They could not however win the game although posting the victory in the last quarter. Sweden needed massive 25-13 surge in the third period to seal the victory. Jonathan Person (192-PG-93, agency: JEMsports) stepped up with 21 points and Marcus Eriksson notched 18. Viktor Gaddefors posted 12, while Charles Barton chipped in with 8. Martin Paasoja (191-G-93) answered with 14 points and 10 rebounds, whilst Oliver Metsalu added 12. Rait-Riivo Laane, Jaan Puidet and Rauno Nurger each scored 10. Sweden will play Georgia on Wednesday in Stozice Arena in Ljubljana, while Estonia will face Montenegro, who are also yet to open their victory count.

Georgia - Montenegro 65-81
Montenegro rolled over Georgia in the Classification Round for 13th to 16th Place. The Balkan team overcame the Georgian side 81:65 at the U20 European Championship in Division A. Montenegro did not waste time and went on a big lead. They had 26:8 surge in the first period and led 43:28 at the halftime. Georgia won the third period 22-21 as Pkhakadze reduced to 60:50. Vukota Pavic scored four free throws for 64:50 and then Danilo Nikolic (206-C-93) brought 68:58. Ratkovic was the last scorer for the winners in a 16-point victory. Marko Mugosa (198-F-93) led the way with 21 points and Danilo Nikolic added 18 points and 11 rebounds. Pavle Raickovic posted 14, while Vukota Pavic collected 8 points and 14 rebounds. Duda Sanadze (196-G/F-92) ended up with 22 points in the losing case and Beka Burjanadze had 20. On Wednesday, Montenegro will try to make it two victories in a row in their game against Estonia, while Georgia will seek a first victory against Sweden.


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FRANCE

Germany, Lithuania, summertime - by Romain Leroy

Hello,

Once again, same sentence to begin my post: "Such a long time...".

Yep, such a long time. While many coaches are actually getting ready for youth EC, or already leading their team to success (Or not... But I don't wanna upset my guys, or basically be the black cat...), I'm off. Offseason mode.

In may, I had a great time with France u15W NT. First experience for me, as an assistant coach, with a French NT. We've been working about 15 days together, and played against Germany u16 in Heidelberg. It was really interesting to begin the training camp at INSEP, using those facilities. The players (and us, staff) really enjoyed to live the daily experience of one of the greatest sports place in Europe. A temple dedicated to performance and competition.

After 5 days there, and 7 players cut, the team headed up to Germany, for the annual traditional meeting with their u16 NT. We played 3 games there. 1 loss, then 2 wins. For their first experience with the national jerseys, girls did a great job, worked and lived as a team. It's not that easy for u15 to compete against u16, we did even more than that. I give props to the players, and also to my coach mates and the medical staff, who also did a great job.

The real competition for the u15 NT is coming soon: Next month, we'll play Spain, Italy and Greece during the Friendship tournament. It will be held in Troyes, France, late august.

Our long term goal is to prepare this generation for next year's u16 EC, which will qualify for 2014 u17 World Championships. The more games they play, the more experienced they'll get before the big dance.

After that, what is better than a few vacations? Well, nothing... That's why I've been to Lithuania, I guess, where even God (or call him however you want) is used to play hoops. Kaunas was, once again, the place to be, holding the u17M Worlds. If you have the opportunity to go there, hang around and watch basketball: Do it. There's no place like Lithuania, when it comes to hoops, except NYC maybe.

The competition was quite interesting. Australia played great, really great, but Team USA was physically way too strong. A lot of good prospects are coming. Croatia's Hezonja and Arapovic, Spain's Diop, China's Qi Zhou, Australia's Exum and Simmons, USA's Parker and Okafor... and many more.

Honorable mention to Conner Frankamp (USA, committed to Kansas next season) also. Ending the competition as USA's top scorer, when you're a skinny white 1.85 guy means a lot, in terms of potential. If he's not NBA material after college, we'll see him back in Europe, in Euroleague madness.

What's next? Well training camp in a few weeks, getting ready for the upcoming season, and Olympics on TV.

Have a good summertime, fellas!


U20 European Championship: France dominate Ukraine - by Eurobasket News

France U20 - Ukraine U20 75:62

France registered the second straight win at the Second Stage of U20 European Championship. They knocked down Ukrainian counterparts in Group E. France thus improved at 2-2 record, while Ukraine slipped at 0-4. Leo Westermann (198-G-92, agency: Beo Basket) accounted for 18 points and 5 assists to pace Les Bleus.
France got to a sloppy start. Ukraine capitalized building a 21:15 lead ten minutes into the game. But France gradually adjusted their offence. They unloaded 26 points in the second quarter to gain a 4-point halftime lead. France boosted the lead in the third quarter. They ensured a 64:51 lead at the final break. The teams exchanged baskets throughout the fourth frame as France coasted to the victory. Axel Toupane (200-G/F-92) posted 13 points, while Hugo Invernizzi (196-G/F-93) contributed 12 points for the winners. Artem Pustovyi (215-C-92, agency: Beo Basket) answered with 23 points for Ukraine. Vyacheslav Bobrov (202-F-92) netted 11 points and grabbed 11 rebounds in the loss.

France U20: Leo Westermann 18, Axel Toupane 13, Hugo Invernizzi 12
Ukraine U20: Artem Pustovyi 23, Vyacheslav Bobrov 11+11 boards


Quimper tab Romain Gregoire - by Eurobasket News

Quimper brought in another newcomer. They signed contract with Romain Gregoire (201-PF-91). The forward spent the last season with Boulogne. He tallied 1.9 points per game in ProB. Previously Romain Gregoire had stints with Rouen and Gravelines.


Nancy extends John Linehan for 2012/13 - by Eurobasket News

As expected, John Linehan (175-PG-78, college: Providence) will stay one more year with Nancy. They officially signed contract extension today. The point guard joined them two years ago from Cholet. Last season Linehan averaged 6.8 points, 4 assists, 2.2 rebounds and 2 steals for 10 Euroleague games. In ProA, the player added 6.6 ppg, 5.2 apg, 2.1 spg and 2.5 rpg. Linehan helped Nancy to win ProA title a year ago. He did the same with Cholet in 2009/10 season. Before Cholet, John Linehan spent one year with Kalev/Cramo Tallin. He helped them win the Estonian league title and was named to Eurobasket.com All-Estonian League 1st Team -09. Linehan was Eurobasket.com All-Estonian League Defensive Player of the Year -09. He played for also Nancy from 2006 to 2008. From 2004 to 2006, Linehan was a member of Paris Basket Racing and Strasbourg. He played at ProA All-Star Game in 2010 and this year as well.
Earlier this summer, Nancy penned a deal with Ivory Coast NT member Mouloukou Diabate (183-PG-87, agency: Beo Basket). The team also brought in Shawn King (208-C-82, college: ORU) and Bingo Merriex (204-F-80, college: TCU).


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GABON

Play-offs 2012: Semi-final Game 1 - by Rodrigue Olivier Kassa

Play-offs 2012: Semi-final Game 1

STADE MANDJI (Port Gentil) - TOUNGUI BB (Libreville): 82-89
MANGA BB (Moanda) - SOMO B (Libreville): 54-37

Advantage for Toungui BB and BB MANGA taking a serious option for the final because it will be enough to win the game 2 this weekend to qualify. But nothing is settled yet ... caution!

The coach of Stade Mandji Bouanga Thierry, who is also national coach of Team A of Gabon said that nothing atit lost and that his troops had the morale boosted. They come in Libreville for a robbery in order to qualify for the finals and why become champion of Gabon to reconnect with the African competition ...

The coach of Somo B, Servais Allogho, says the game will be played in Libreville and has the advantage of receiving ... therefore, it has surprised Manga BB, the 2011 champion.


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GEORGIA

U20 European Championship: Montenegro rolled over Georgia in Ljubljana - by Eurobasket News

Georgia U20-Montenegro U20 65:81

Montenegro rolled over Georgia in the Classification Round for 13th to 16th Place. The Balkan team overcame the Georgian side 81:65 at the U20 European Championship in Division A.
Montenegro did not waste time and went on a big lead. They had 26:8 surge in the first period and led 43:28 at the halftime. Georgia won the third period 22-21 as Pkhakadze reduced to 60:50. Vukota Pavic (203-C-93) scored four free throws for 64:50 and then Danilo Nikolic (206-C-93) brought 68:58. Ratkovic was the last scorer for the winners in a 16-point victory.
Marko Mugosa (198-F-93) led the way with 21 points and Danilo Nikolic added 18 points and 11 rebounds. Pavle Raickovic (205-F-92) posted 14, while Vukota Pavic collected 8 points and 14 rebounds. Duda Sanadze (196-G/F-92) ended up with 22 points in the losing case and Beka Burjanadze (203-F-94) had 20.
On Wednesday, Montenegro will try to make it two victories in a row in their game against Estonia, while Georgia will seek a first victory against Sweden.

Georgia U20: Duda Sanadze 22, Beka Burjanadze 20
Montenegro U20: Marko Mugosa 21, Danilo Nikolic 18+11 rebs, Pavle Raickovic 14, Vukota Pavic 8+14 rebs


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GERMANY

U20 European Championship: Germany gain second straight win at Second Stage - by Eurobasket News

Germany U20 - Russia U20 74:59

German U20 National Team registered the second straight win at the Second Stage of European Championhip in Slovenia. They overcame Russia to improve at 3-1 record in Group E. Russia in the meantime suffered the second loss in a row and fell at 2-2 record. Johannes Voigtmann (210-C-92, agency: Limelight Hoops) came up with 15 points to lead the winners.
Russia enjoyed a 17:16 lead ten minutes into the game. But Germany turned things around in the second quarter. They went on a 12:2 run midway through the period to ensure a 30:25 lead. Germany finished the half up by 8 points 37:29. Germany maintained the lead throughout the third term. They accumulated a 50:41 advantage at the final intermission. Germany opened the fourth frame with 9 points in a row to clear off. They never looked back cruising to the victory at the end. Patrick Heckmann (198-G/F-92) accounted for 12 points, while Daniel Theis (206-C/F-92) added 11 points in the victory. Vladislav Trushkin (201-F-93) answered with 11 points for Russia. Aleksandr Gudumak (204-F-93) netted 9 points in the loss.

Germany U20: Johannes Voigtmann 15, Patrick Heckmann 12, Daniel Theis 11
Russia U20: Vladislav Trushkin 11, Aleksandr Gudumak 9


The Eisbaeren Bremerhaven Pick Up Scorer Alex Harris - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

The Eisbaeren Bremerhaven have announced that Alex Harris (196-G-86, agency: Interperformances) is the newest member of the team today getting a one year deal. Harris is a 26 year old 196cm shooting guard from Alameda, California that will be starting his third season in the Beko BBL. He played the last two seasons for EnBW Ludwigsburg playing a total of 66 Beko BBL games. In his first season with the Schwaben team, he wa sthe fourth best scorer in the German league playing 34 games: Score-4 (16.0ppg), 2.4rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 42.8%, FT: 80.8%. Last season, he played 32 games: 12.4ppg, 2.7rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 43.2%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 76.9%. "Despite the difficult situation in Ludwigsburg last season, Alex Harris (196-G-86, agency: Interperformances) proved that he is an excellent Bundesliga player. We have only heard positive things with our research. He is a great scorer that can penetrate and score form outside. Also he is a hard nosed defender that ha ste needed intelligence and discipline", warned Bremerhaven head coach Douglas Spradley (agency: Limelight Hoops ).

Harris started his basketball career in 2004 where he played for UCSB (NCAA) until 2008. He played a total of 118 NCAA games. In 2008-2009, he started his professional basketball career with playing the Portsmouth Invitational Tournament (Pre-NBA Draft): 3 games: 8.3ppg, 3.0rpg, 1.0apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 34.5%, 3PT: 11.1%, FT: 66.7%. He then played for PGE Turow Zgorzelec (Poland-DBE, starting five): Eurocup: 6 games: 6.8ppg, 1.0rpg, 1.0apg; Polish League: 34 games: 7.3ppg, 2.1rpg, FGP: 40.4%, 3PT: 38.9%, FT: 82.7%. In 2009-2010, he gathered further experience in Poland playing for : Energa Czarni Slupsk (Poland-PLK, starting five): 30 games: 9.7ppg, 3.0rpg, 1.4apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 38.2%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 81.5%. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been BWC All-Freshmen Team -05, NABC All-NCAA District 15 2nd Team -07, All-Big West 1st Team -07, 08
NABC Division I All-District 15 Second Team -08, All-Big West Co-Player of the Year -08, Big West Regular Season Champion -08, DiGiorno College All-Star Game -08, Polish Cup Semifinals -09, Polish League Regular Season Runner-Up -09, Polish League Finalist -09, Polish League All-Star Game -10, German Bundesliga All-Star Game -11, and Eurobasket.com All-German Bundesliga Honorable Mention -11

Source: Eisbaeren Bremerhaven



Jacob Burtschi (Eisbaeren Bremerhaven) I love Frankfurt And They Were One Of The Teams At The Top Of My List To Return To - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Jacob Burtschi (198-F-84, college: Air Force) is a 28 year old 198cm forward from Chickasha, Oklahoma who is recently completed his first season with the Fraport Skyliners and will be playing for the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven in 2012-2013. He played at Air Force from 2003-2007 and in his senior year, he played 35 games averaging 13.5ppg, 6.0rpg, 2.3apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 49.7%, 3Pts: 39.0%, FT: 77.3%. He had offers to play in the NBA, but served in the Air Force the last three years and could only play club ball. He played for Phoenix Hagen as a rookie 14.2ppg, 6.9rpg, 2.5apg, Steals-3 (1.5spg), FGP: 56.0%, 3PT: 44.2%, FT: 82.2%. Some achievements that he got in the NCAA were All-MWC Honorable Mention -05, MWC Regular Season Runner-Up -06, All-MWC 2nd Team -06, 07, NABC All-NCAA District 13 2nd Team -07, and NIT Final Four -07. He spoke to eurobasket about his decision to play for the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven.

Jake thanks for talking to eurobasket.com. You are already into your third month of summer. What has been your most memorable summer experience in 2012?

I just returned from a few days at Lake Lanier with some buddies in the Air Force for the 4th of July and right after that I spent a week with my family at the lake. Always good to get quality time with friends and family.

Despite all the disappointment after the do or die loss in Bonn in the last game of the season, I had a feeling that you werent going to come back. How sure were you at the start of May that you might not be wearing a Fraport Skyliners uniform next season?

I love Frankfurt. They were one of the teams at the top of my list to return to.

As Jon Leuer left for the NBA, the Fraport Skyliners were in 17th place, but as soon as you arrived the team turned it around. What was the most important thing that you took out of your 5 month stint with the Fraport Skyliners?

Anything can happen. we let a few games slip away from us where we could have easily finished 6th or 7th. There was a lot of basketball left to be played and we took full advantage of it.

You never played a single game in a Skyliner uniform with Justin Gray, but you guys maintained a special friendship. What will you always remember from the Charlotte native?

Justin is a funny dude. Listening to his stories had me laughing so hard. but also his family his wife Julie and son JJ. A very loving family.

You will be playing for your fourth team in three years. Is Jacob Burtschi on the verge of a Basketball nomad life?

Haha I guess so. Hopefully down the road somewhere I will get more than a one year deal, but I still have to prove a lot of things on the court to deserve one of those contracts.

Basketball remains a business. How much was money a factor for you choosing the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven against the Fraport Skyliners?

Money wasnt the biggest issue. Unfortunately it was just security over the timing of the contract.

How excited are you about going to the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven? Doug Spradley thinks highly about your basketball abilities. What are you expecting from your season in Bremerhaven?

I am very excited. Bremerhaven has always been in the playoff mix and I have never made the playoffs before. Coach Spradley is a good coach and I have heard a lot of good things. I expect us to be in the playoff hunt and see what happens from there.

You were the ultimate team basketball player for the Fraport Skyliners. After experience in the ACB and in Frankfurt, how was your game able to improve from your rookie season with Phoenix Hagen?

Well in Hagen I was needed for more scoring and other things. In Frankfurt we had guys who could do all that so I was mainly a glue guy. However if I can help a team win, ill do it.

You still have about 6 weeks before reporting to the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven. How does a typical Jacob Burtschi basketball work out day look like in the summer of 2012?

Usually I spend 60-90 minutes in the morning doing basketball drills. Then I play pick up with guys like Josh Young and a handful of other overseas guys for a little over an hour. Then in the evening time I have a 90 minute training session which includes lifting, agilities, and stretching.

Who could forget your four dives you displayed in Trier in the first quarter. If you had to choose from diving on the ice in Bremerhaven to save the Eisbaeren mascot, Paris Hilton or Lebron James who promised reward money, who would you save?

Well it depends on how thick the ice was, if Paris was single at the time, and how much money Lebron was offering.

Will Team USA have a cake walk at winning the Gold medal in London?

It definitely will not be a cake walk, but they should win gold.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

50/50

Thanks Jake For the chat.



The LTi Giessen 46ers Reel In Dijuan Harris - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber



The Lti Giessen 46ers announced the arrival of Dijuan Harris (175-G-86, college: Charlotte) today. Harris is a 25 year old 175cm guard that hails from Justin Gray country Charlotte, North Carolina. Harris is a Super fast and strong point guard. Pushes the ball quick in transition and scores in a variety of ways. Uses ball screens well, and finishes in the lane with his strength. Creates open looks for all his teammates and puts a lot of pressure on the defense when on the fast break. He is a great defender because of his quickness, and beats the offense to the spot because of his great anticipation. Harris will be starting his third professional season. Last season he played for Usak Universitesi Belediyespor (Turkey-TB2L, starting five): 36 games: 14.1ppg, 2.5rpg, 3.4apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 50.9%, 3PT: 23.4%, FT: 72.9%. The Giessen 46ers took their time finding Harris and head coach Mathias Fischer is thrilled about getting him. "He is a quick lefty that has numerous experience in Europe. I have had him on my radar for some years. He has a great overall view of the game and can pressure on defense. He brings us te needed speed on the court. He has dominated in every league tat he has played in and I expect him to do the same here", stressed LTi Giessen 46ers head coach Matias Fischer.

Harris started his basketball career in 2007 for : Charlotte (NCAA). He played a total of 96 NCAA games and in his senior year played 31 games: 8.3ppg, 3.2rpg, 4.6apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 41.4%, 3PT: 32.7%, FT: 73.3%. He started his professional basketball career in 2010 for : Salon Vilpas Vikings (Finland-Korisliiga, starting five), left in Nov.'10: 11 games: 19.0ppg, 3.0rpg, 4.4apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 55.8%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 75.0%. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been at Charlotte (NCAA) having -223 Assists in 08-09 are 2nd-most in 49ers history , -Ranked in NCAA Top 10 in both assists; A-TO ratio, 7.19 assist per game: #4 in NCAA; #1 in A-10, -2.93 Assist - Turnover Ratio - #6 in NCAA; #1 in A-10
-Only Dijuan Harris and University of Pitt's Levance Fields ranked in top 6 of both categories (Assist & Turnover), -UNC Charlotte School record 11 games with 10 or more assists
-Played a school-record 1146 minutes (37.0/gm) , 331 career assists; 83 career steals; 2.88 Assist - Turnover Ratio , and Atlantic 10 Tournament Semifinals -08.

Source: LTi Giessen 46ers





The Schwelmer Baskets Sign Germans Simon Asbach And Sven Mengering - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

PRO B team Schwelmer Baskets have signed Germans Simon Asbach (185-G-91) And Sven Mengering. Asbach is a 21 year old 185cm guard that played for TSV 1860 Hagen (2.Regionalliga) last season. "I seldom have heard so much postive things from different people about one person like Simon. After talks and practices, I am convinced that he can make the jump from the second Regioaliga to the PRO B. He is driven, has good ball handling, is a good defender and reads the game well", added Schwelm head coach Raphael Wilder. The team also added Sven Mengering who is a 23 year old 200cm forward. He has been in the Schwelm organization playing Oberliga and now is ready to make the jump to the PRO B. Last season, he was the third best scorer for the Oberliga team with 232 points. "It was easy for me to give Sven the ok to wanting to give a try in the PRO B. He knows that he has a long way to go to get PRO B minutes. He is prepared and has began to work hard on his weaknesses", added Schwelm head coach Raphael Wilder.


Source: Schwelmer Baskets




Ilja Ickert Leaves The White Wings Hanau - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

It wasnt an easy decision, but German Regionaliga and second Bundesliga veteran Ilja Ickert (201-C-81) will no longer be playing for the White Wings Hanau. Sometimes making a decision for the future takes priority over basketball. Last season the 31 year old 200cm ceter played 23 games: 11.2ppg, 4.7rpg, FGP: 58.1%, 3PT: 24.7%, FT: 72.0%. "I just cant play second Bundesliga anymore. Combing studies and basketball don't work", stressed Ilja Ickert (201-C-81). The club would have liked to have kept him. "It is understandable that his studies is his first priority. We are losing agood consistent German player. However we have a good alternative wth Marco Voller", stressed Mate Condic from the White Wings management. Last season the 31 yera old German scored in double figures 14 times including a 27 point outburst against Hessen rival TV Langen. Levaing Hanau doesn't mean an end to his career, but he just is shifting a gear down.

Source: White Wings Hanau




Joshua Jones commits to SC Rist Wedel - by Moritz Korff

Joshua Jones (196-G/F-87, college: Husson) will start his overseas career at SC Rist Wedel (2. Bundesliga Pro B). The 25-year-old from Jefferson, Maine, is a versatile forward who is able to fill the stats sheet. He is a well-rounded offensive weapon and a solid defender.
As a senior at NCAA Division 3 school Husson Jones averaged 19.2 points, 11.4 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 1.6 steals and 1.1 blocks per contest, which earned him 2010-11 North Atlantic Conference Player of the Year honors. He was drafted by NBA D-League's Rio Grande Valley Vipers, then was traded to the Maine Redclaws, but then moved to the Albany Legends. Jones helped the Legends to reach the IBA championship game of the 2012 spring season, which the team ended up losing.


Patrick Ewing jr.: "I learned from Larry Johnson" - by Moritz Korff

Just one month from now the Telekom Baskets Bonn open training camp in order to get prepared for the 2012-13 season in the Beko Basketball Bundesliga. Something, Patrick Ewing Jr. (203-F-84, college: Georgetown). is eager to experience as the start of his overseas career. After playing for the jamaican NT and his wedding, the 28 year-old found some downtime to sit down and talk about his future with one of the best-known franchises in german basketball.

Patrick, after playing in the U.S. for your whole pro career, how did you get in touch with the Telekom Baskets Bonn organization?
Patrick Ewing Jr..: "It all went through my agent in europe, Gerrit Kersten-Thiele, who is very close with my representative in the United States, David Falk. They have been working together in the past, and when we talked about going overseas, Bonn instantly was one of the names that popped up. After talking to head coach Michael Koch everything fell into place pretty soon. I always liked the idea of playing overseas, through my seasons in D-League play I just felt to being closer to the NBA. My experience with the New York Knicks and the New Orleans Hornets haven been wonderful and very valuable to me. I hope, this will help me contribute for Bonn now. (laughs) Plus, Im not getting any younger. To be honest: I have a good feeling, Bonn will be the perfect fit for me to take the next step forward as a player."

What would that "next step" look like in detail?
"I want to be a big part of a hardworking group of guys, and I want to help win games. From being in the NBA I learned what it feels like to sit on the bench a lot and not really have an impact on the game. I want to feel being needed. For me personally, I want to help my team in any way possible, and the challenge is to find out in what way I can do it best by displaying my individual strengths."

Talk about the european style of basketball possibly being a huge obstacle to overcome.
"I dont really think it is an obstacle for me. By playing for the jamaican NT I know playing under FIBA rules and faced teams in the past that played a european style of basketball. On top I started gathering information on the german Beko Basketball Bundesliga to be well-prepared when I hit Bonn training camp opens in mid-august. In college Jonathan Wallace, who is with Munich these days, was my room-mate. He gave me plenty of advice, what made my decision to head for Germany a lot easier."

What kind of player can the Bonn crowd expect to see?
"The crowd can expect a stat sheet stuffer to give all he's got. In college I have not been known as a scorer, my task was to protect the paint and play good passes out of the low block to open shooters. During my time in the D-League I showed that I could score, for example. I proofed to be very versatile, I can defend multiple positions and cause turnovers that lead to easy run-outs for my team - Ill even lead the break and bring the ball upcourt, if necessary. I can do all these little things, that hopefully make us win games at the end of the day."

What do you like better: an uptempo style of play or going into halfcourt sets?
"I dont have any preferences in this regard, really. I like going both ways and feel comfortable with it. Working in the low post with my back to the hoop or open up space for our shooters - these strengths weigh heavily in setplays. But I like to run a lot in transition as well. Both paces bring a lot of fun and excitement. If I had to decide which way to go Id pick the one everybody feels comfortable with the most."

Does this approach to the game have to do with the fact that you have seen many different styles over the years?
"Yep, hanging out in the gym with all kinds of players and coaches shaped my understanding for the game, for sure. I've been around NBA players all my life and grew up watching many, many games. As a side effect you get to learn many little things for yourself on the run without even noticing it."

Could you state an example?
"There are many examples to name. (laughs) Well, it is obviously an advantage to be a basketball superstar's son, what enables you to learn certain things even in the living room. During my younger days I've been soaking up a lot of things by just hanging around with the Knicks. Derek Harper taught me the left-handed layup, Larry Johnson showed me his running hook in the lane. Being a ball boy at Madison Square Garden I went 1-on-1 against several NBA cats during warmup - that's where I got many of my moves from."

The Ewing family is a huge part of the Knicks community. What is you're sweetest memory, what is the lowest point to you from what you've witnessed?
"To answer the first part is a no-brainer: Larry Johnson's infamous four point-play at the 1999 Conference Finals. At that time I was a ball boy at MSG, and when he sunk that unbelievable triple, the whole place went crazy. (laughs) In this moment I jumped as high as I never would jump again in my entire life. It's been amazing, because everybody in the building knew of the significance of that very shot."
The lowest point, even if I was not at MSG that particular night, was game 7 against Indiana in the 1995 Conference Semi-Finals - the decisive layup my dad missed. I remember him coming home and not leaving his room for about a week before he somewhat was over it. To me it was devastating, too, because I knew how bad he felt."

In what kind of way did these events shape you as a basketball player?
(laughs) "Im a sore loser! I hate to lose games without giving opponents their best challenge. When I'm on the court, I want to do everything I can for my team to not leave the court empty-handed. That's what I am going to achieve in Bonn now: win as many games as possible and minimize our losses in order to make the next step - for me and the organization."

The interview was conducted by Joerg Baehren.


Gotha Rockets sign Derek Selvig - Pro B POY Marcus Monk to retire? - by Moritz Korff

Derek Selvig (210-F-89, agency: Limelight Hoops) will add size and shooting power to the roster of 2. Bundesliga Pro A newcomer Gotha Rockets. The 2012 graduate of the University of Montana (NCAA Division One) hit 43.7% (38/87) of his shots from beyond the arc as a senior. The Glendive, MT, native averaged 9.1 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists, 1.2 block and 1 steal per contest for the Grizzlies and received All-Big Sky Second Team honors.
Meanwhile, a return of Marcus Monk (198-G/F-86, college: Arkansas), the reigning 2. Bundesliga Pro B Player of the Year, becomes more and more uncertain. According to a report in the Northwest Arkansas Times, Monk "is considering retiring from basketball to pursue a football or basketball coaching job closer to home."


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GREECE

Panagiotis Kafkis back to Ilysiakos - by Giorgos Diploidis

Panagiotis Kafkis (197-G-80) returned to Ilysiakos Athens after the period 2002-03. He was with the team of Athens in A2 category. Now he signed a contract for basketleague and they will be another one point guard for Dimitris Papanikolaou.

Last season the experienced play maker in 22 games with DASH Peristeri GS Athens had 5.0ppg, 2.6rpg and 3.0apg. Except DASH Peristeri GS Athens after leaving Ilysiakos Athens played in 6 clubs, Makedonikos, Apollon Patras, Panionios, Olympiacos, PAOK and Kolossos.


U20 European Championship: Serbia dismantle Greece to stay perfect - by Eurobasket News

Serbia U20 - Greece U20 86:69

Serbia secured the fifth straight win at the U20 European Championship. They fired past Greece to improve at 4-0 record in Group E. Nenad Miljenovic (194-G-93, agency: Beo Basket) came up with 16 points to lead the winners.
Serbia and Greece traded baskets throughout the opening quarter. The scoreboard read 21:21 after ten minutes. Serbia pulled ahead for a narrow 38:37 halftime lead. The Balkan team surged ahead in the third quarter. Serbia unleashed 28 points to leave Greece far behind. The Hellenes faced a massive 17-point deficit before the fourth term. Serbia and Greece scored 20 points apiece in the final quarter as the Balkan team coasted to the victory. Bogdan Bogdanovic (197-F-92) accounted for 15 points, while Luka Mitrovic (204-F/C-93) added 13 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Anastasios Antonakis (204-PF-92) notched 21 points for Greece. Giannoulis Larentzakis (195-SG-93, agency: FCM) had 16 points in the loss.

Serbia U20: Nenad Miljenovic 16, Bogdan Bogdanovic 15, Luka Mitrovic 13+10 boards
Greece U20: Anastasios Antonakis 21, Giannoulis Larentzakis 16


Mavroeidis status changes - by Dimitris Katsionis


According to sources close to the player Dimitris Mavroeidis (208-C-85) has made his mind to play for Olympiakos next year. The Greek center was close to Panathinaikos, which was looking for a quick center to pair Schortsianitis, but now he seems to accept Olympiakos's offer. Panathinaikos has already made a better financial proposal, but the player chooses to play under coach Bartzokas. Bartzokas coached Marousi BC 3 years ago, when Mavroeidis and Kostas Kaimakoglou (the team's frontline duo) had a breakout season, reaching one step before Euroleague playoffs. The 27-year old center has a proposal for a two-year contract from the Reds, for 300-350.000 euros per season, an offer lower comparing to what Panathinaikos brought to the table.


Greek U16 National Team 2012 - by Greg

Greek U16 National Team 2012
#s#	Andreadis	Begos	Billis	Charalampopoulos	Dospras	#e#5

Nikolaos Andreadis

200-PF-96

Rafail-Kyriakos Begos

188-PG-96

Sotirios Billis

192-SG-96

Nikolaos-Michail Charalampis

198-PF-96

Vasileios Charalampopoulos

199-F-97

Panathinaikos

Georgios Dospras

196-SF-97

Efthymios Karteroliotis

195-SF-96

Ioannis Katrantzis

187-PG-96

Thomas Kottas

204-C-96

Ioannis Michaloutsos

198-PF-97

Panathinaikos

Konstantinos Mitoglou

200-PF-96

Konstantinos Oikonomopoulos

192-SG-96

Milonas

Emmanouil Papadoulis

200-PF-96

Georgios Papagiannis

210-C-97

Peristeri GS

Minas Paspalas

194-SG-96

Ikaros

Dionysis Skoulidas

200-PF-97

Peristeri GS

Konstantinos Souliotis

200-PF-96

Dimitrios Stamatis

192-G-96

Evriali

Vasileios Toliopoulos

185-PG-96

Georgios Tsalmpouris

203-C-96

Periko/Arhelaos

Panagiotis Tsimpoukis

200-PF-96

Nikolaos Tsiogkas

195-SF-96

Christoforos Vlachos

196-SF-96

Konstantinos Zorzos

188-PG-96

Manos Manouselis

Head Coach

Olympiacos

Nikos Toufas

Assistant

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HUNGARY

Zsolt Szabo signs with Albacomp - by Levente Szabo

The management of Albacomp-UPC Szekesfehervar announced on the official website of the team the signing of Hungarian National Team member, Zsolt Szabo (202-F-86, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group). The 6'8" player signed a one year deal with the club and will join them after the European Championship Qualifications will be over.

Zsolt was the starting forward of last years regular season champion, Falco-Szova KC-Szombathely. He helped his team with 11.7ppg, 6.3rpg, 1.1apg and 1.3spg to advance in the Hungarian League Finals, where they felt short against Hungarian powerhouse Szolnok. The sharp shooting forward was selected by eurobasket.com for the Hungarian League All-Domestic Team in the past two seasons and is a member of the Hungarian senior National Team from 2010.

The 26 year old player is the main signing of Albacomp-UPC Szekesfehervar so far, but as reported on the website of the team they are still working on strength their club and new signings will be announced soon.


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ICELAND

Pance Ilievski returns to KFI - by Eurobasket News

KFI brought back Pance Ilievski (186-G-81). The guard used to play for the team back in 2006/11 seasons. He tallied 5.5 points per game in Express League. He earned All-Icelandic D1 Honourable Mention in 2009. In 2010 Pance Ilievski made it into Icelandic D1 All-Bosmans Team. Last season the guard spent with Bolungarvik in the second division. He tallied 22.7 points, 7.0 rebounds and 6.1 assists per game. Pance Ilievski led the team to the Finals in the second division.
Pance Ilievski had also coaching experience with KFI. He guided womens basketball team in 2010/11 season.


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ISRAEL

Israel Cruises Past Belarus In Ukraine Tourney - by David Pick

Newly shaped Israeli national squad began its 2013 European Championship Qualifying preparations with an easy 72-50 victory over Belarus, in the Ukraine tournament in Yuzhne.

Lior Eliyahu (playing for the Minnesota Timberwolves in the NBA summer league in Las Vegas), Omri Casspi (undergoing personal workouts with the Cleveland Cavaliers) and Bayern Muenchen's recent Israeli acquisition Yotam Halperin (injury), were absent.

Ex-Gator and recent high-flying Israeli League Sixth Man of the Year Alex Tyus showcased a successful blue-and-white debut, including 9 points as a starter.

Arik Shivek's men took a comfortable 31-18 cushion at the break, and 60-39 lead midway through the fourth period, en route to a crushing 72-50 triumph.

Gal Mekel led all Israeli scorers with 10 points, Tyus added 9, while Guy Pnini and Elishay Kadir finished with 8 points each. Ido Kozikaro 7, Raviv Limonad and Nitzan Hanochi 6, Yogev Ohayon and Robert Rothbart tailed 4 points each, Uri Kokia and Dagan Yivzori had 3 each, and Yuval Naimy and Afik Nissim each finished with 2 points.

Tomorrow, Israeli will hold a 10:00 (local time) shootaround and battle Romania at 16:30 (local time). On Thursday (19:00), Israel will play the Ukraine.
.




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ITALY

Enel Brindisi signs PG Robert Fultz - by Eurobasket News

Enel Brindisi reinforced its roster at position 1. The SerieA newcomer signed a deal with Portuguese/Italian player Robert Fultz (189-PG-82, agency: Interperformances). He arrives to the club from Teramo, where he averaged 9.5 points and 3.3 assists for 26 games last season. Fultz joined Teramo in February of 2011 from LegaDue team Reggio Emilia. For 8 SerieA games the PG had 6.6 ppg and 2.1 apg. Before that, Fults registered 9.2 ppg, 3.1 apg and 2.4 rpg for 17 games in LegaDue with Reggio Emilia. He played for Regio Emilia also in 2008/09 and 2009/10 seasons. Robert Fultz was a member of Scavolini in 2008/09 and before that he played for Climamio Bologna. The player also has experience from Livorno. In 2007, Fults won LegaDue title with Scavolini.


Dinamo Sassari extends F Brian Sacchetti until 2015 - by Eurobasket News

Dinamo Sassari announced signing of contract extension with forward Brian Sacchetti (200-F-86). He will stay in the club until the end of 2014/15 season. Sacchetti appeared 37 times in SerieA last season averaging 4.6 points and 2.5 rebounds. They reached Playoff Semifinals. He joined the club in 2010/11 registering 5 ppg and 2.4 rpg in their first year together. Before Dinamo Sassari, Brian Sacchetti spent four years with Carife Ferrara. He had 4.3 ppg and 2.1 rpg for 30 games in 2009/10. In 2008, Sacchetti helped Ferrara to win promotion from LegaDue to SerieA. Three years before that, the player won SerieB title with Ticino. In the past, Sacchetti was a member of Italian youth National Teams.


Prima Veroli inks G Jimmy Hunter - by Eurobasket News

Jimmy Hunter (197-G-77, agency: Two Points, college: Life) will stay in LegaDue next season. The American guard penned a deal with Prima Veroli. He was one of the key players in Enel Brindisi last season averaging 15.4 points, 2.9 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 2 steals. However, Hunter got injured in April and missed rest of the season. Brindisi later won the promotion for SerieA. Jimmy Hunter played for Scafati in 2010/11. There he had 15.5 ppg, 2.9 rpg, 2.3 apg and 2.3 spg for 32 games. He was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Italian Lega2 Honorable Mention -11. From 2008 to 2008, Hunter played for Spanish Granada and year before that he spent with Murcia. The player also has experience from Gran Canaria and Alicante.


Pietro Aradori joins Pallacanestro Cantu - by Giovanni Bargna

First rumors were heard a week ago and now it is official : Pallacanestro Cantu inked Pietro Aradori (194-SG-88).
The guard spent last two seasons with Montepaschi Siena.
Pietro Aradori was born in Brescia and is 24 years-old. His pro career began at Casalpusterlengo in 2005 before moving to Imola for season 2006-2007.
After a season with Milano and another one with Roma he joined Biella in 2008. At his second season with team he had oustanding performances all along the tournament and scored almost 17 ppg helping Biella to avoid the drop in the second division.
Pietro Aradori won two italian league titles, two italian cup and two supercup with Montepaschi in the last two seasons giving a great contribution from the bench.
He is also a landmark for the italian national team since 2009.
After this deal Cantu is looking for an american small forward in order to complete next year roster.


Team Italy 2012 Media Day report - by Gianni Pascucci

Main sponsor "Edison" company hosted Italian Basketball Federation (FIP) President Dino Meneghin and Italian Olympic Committee (CONI) President Giulio Petrucci yesterday in Milano for the Team Italy 2012 Media Day. Meeting all the media operators Meneghin stated that he is "conscious that it will be a very hard job for Team Italy in this summer, the same he is confindent of a full undertaking from all players and coaches and, of course, of a succesful end." Coach Pianigiani added that he promises a great enthusiasm from all the Team Italy members and staff.
The full Team Italy 2012 roster is as follows: Pietro Aradori (194-SG-88), Daniele Cavaliero (188-G-84), Massimo Chessa (188-G-88, agency: Two Points), David Chiotti (205-F/C-84, agency: Court Side, college: N.Mexico), Andrea Cinciarini (193-PG-86), Marco Cusin (211-C-85, agency: Interperformances), Luigi Datome (202-G/F-87), Danilo Gallinari (208-F-88, agency: Players Group), Angelo Gigli (209-F/C-83), Daniel Hackett (198-G-87, agency: Two Points, college: USC), Daniele Magro (208-C/F-87), Stefano Mancinelli (203-F-83), Nicolo Melli (205-F-91), Giuseppe Poeta (190-G-85), Jeffrey Viggiano (197-F-84, college: Massachusetts), Luca Vitali (201-G-86) . The coach is Simone Pianigiani , his Assistants are Luca Dalmonte and Mario Fioretti
The first commitment for the Azzurri will be Trento International Tournment, from July 25 to 27, when they will meet Finland, Bosnia-Herzegovina and Montenegro.


Bryant Dunston and Dusan Sakota sign with Varese - by Eurobasket News

Bryant Dunston (202-F/C-86) and Dusan Sakota (209-SF-86, agency: Beo Basket) sign with Varese for the upcoming season. According to sportando.net the players move to Italy. Moreover the Italian team is also close to Mike Green.
Bryant Dunston played earlier in Aris Thessaloniki (Greece-A1) and in Greek League averaged 6.2ppg, 3.8rpg, FGP: 50.9%, FT: 61.1%. In EuroCup his stats read 6.3ppg, 3.5rpg, Blocks-1 (1.6bpg), FGP: 64.1%, FT: 65.5%. Later he played for Bnei Eshet Tours Hasharon (Israel-Premier League) and showed 7.7ppg, 5.0rpg, Blocks-3 (1.6bpg), FGP: 60.3%, FT: 66.7%.In 2011-2012 moved to Hapoel Holon (Israel-Premier League, starting five) and had 14.5ppg, Reb-2 (9.0rpg), 1.1apg, Blocks-2 (1.8bpg), FGP: 62.3%, FT: 66.3%.
Dusan Sakota ariives from Russia. Last season the forward started the season in Belgium. He played for Oostende in D1. His stats read 10.4 points, 1.8 rebounds and 1.3 steals per game in D1. In EuroCup Dusan Sakota delivered 10.0 points, 3.4 rebounds per appearance. Previously the Greek player had stints in Panathinaikos, Panionios and Scavolini. Dusan Sakota used to play for Greek U18, U20 and U23 National Teams. He was also the member of Greek Military National Team. Eurobasket.com named the forward All-Greek A1 League Most Improved Player of the Year in 2008.


U20 European Championship: Italy nip Spain - by Eurobasket News

Italy U20 - Spain U20 78:76

Italy recorded the first win at the second stage of U20 European Championship. They knocked down Spain in Group F to catch up with their opponents at 2-2 record in the ladder. Awudu Abass (196-G-93) came up with 24 points and 12 rebounds for the winners.
Spain led by as many as 6 points after ten minutes 28:22. But Italy slowed the reigning champions down in the second frame. The Azzurri got within 4 points at halftime 39:35. Italy denied the deficit and pulled in front for a 57:56 lead with ten minutes remaining. Pozas gave Spain a 66:63 lead midway through the final frame but Italy surged back in front. The Azzurri posted a 74:66 lead with under two minutes to go. Daniel Diez (203-F-93) and Alejandro Abrines (198-F-93) kept Spain hopeful narrowing the deficit to just two points 76:78 but Servera missed a potential winner and Italy got away with a narrow win. Andrea Traini (184-PG-92) posted 18 points for Italy. Marco Ceron (194-G-92) added 7 points in the victory. Daniel Diez answered with 17 points for Spain. Alejandro Abrines finished with 14 points in the losing case.

Italy U20: Awudu Abass 24+12 boards, Andrea Traini 18, Marco Ceron 7
Spain U20: Daniel Diez 17, Alejandro Abrines 14


Pietro Aradori joins Cantu - by Antonello Varallo

As expected, Cantu announced the agreement for next two seasons with Pietro Aradori (194-SG-88) . The Italian National team shooting guard joins Cantu with the hope to unleash his enormous potential. Aradori spent last two seasons with Montepaschi Siena, averaging 6.9ppg (high of 21 points scored)during 2010-2011 and 8.5ppg (high of 20) during 2011-2012, 4.9ppg (high of 16) and 4.8 (high of 23) in Euroleague. Previously, he had played with Biella, Milano, Roma, Imola and Casalpusterlengo. So far, Aradori is the fourth new face of Cantu, following Marco Cusin (211-C-85, agency: Interperformances) , Jerry Smith (188-G-87, college: Louisville) and Alex Tyus (203-F-88, college: Florida)


Marko Milic and Lorenzo D'Ercole on their way to leave Cremona - by Pervin Elgin

Both players seemed close to stay

Marko Milic and Lorenzo D'Ercole, two of the players who seemed close to staying with Cremona, are now on their way to leave the Italian team. Cremona made an offer to Marko Milic but the contract is lower than the one had by Milic last season. The two sides will talk again in the coming days but the difference is too big and the gap is almost impossible to fill. Another player who is leaving is Lorenzo D'Ercole. The budget of Cremona for the coming season is very low and the Italian club needs to optimize the money signing the right players.

Courtesy of sportando.net


Virtus Roma set to sign Bobby Jones - by Pervin Elgin

Former NBA player spent the season in Legadue

The first signing of Virtus Roma edition 2012-13 will be Bobby Jones. The American forward spent last season in Italian Legadue with Pistoia averaging 14.4ppg, 7.9rpg, 1.6apg, 2.1spg. Jones has played in Serie A with Teramo and Montegranaro scoring 11.2ppg with Teramo and 7.8ppg with Montegranaro who waived him in the middle of the season. The news was reported by Il Corriere dello Sport.

Courtesy of sportando.net


DNA Market News - by Armando Caporaso

Waiting for the choices and the construction of the new leagues for the new season 2012/13 already there are some teams that have formalized some agreements:
Francesco Ihedioha (196-F-86) is really near to be the new center of Matera. The ex player of Trento, Vigevano, Castelletto and Ruvo played the last season with Ferentino obtaining the promotion and contributing with 9.7 ppg, 6.0 rpg, and 1.8 spg in 43 games. Before to announce the player with Nigerian origin, and after the signature with the new coach Giovanni Benedetto (agency: Players Group ), the Bawer reached an agreement with 2 players: Carlo Cantone (187-PG-85) & Marcello Cozzoli (188-G-90). Cantone played the last season with S.Antimo (seventh year with the team) closing with 28 games in LegaA2 (3.4 ppg and 1.8 apg). For the young playmaker 2 years always in Campania with Scafati (29 games in LegaA1 and 35 games in LegaA2). Cozzoli arrives from Potenza after 4 year passed with Corato. In the last year (DNB) 15.0 ppg with a good 46% by 3 and a season-high of 29 points against Rieti.
Latina brings Riccardo Santolamazza (195-G-83) & Alessandro Cecchetti (200-C/F-91) (both grown at Roma). Cecchetti played the last two seasons with Fossombrone (11.2 ppg in B Dilettanti) and Recanati closing the last year with 35 games, 7.3 ppg and 3.6 rpg. Santolamazza arrives from Anagni and closed the last season with 10.8 ppg, 4.5 rpg and 3.2 apg. With the Romana Chimici played 3 season (89 games) after the experiences with Biella and Pistoia (41 games between LegaA1 & LegaA2). The Benacquista adds this two new players after the confirmations of Tommaso Milani (190-G-88), Riccardo Tavernelli (188-PG-91) and of the coach Mattia Ferrari (agency: Interperformances ). Milani is grown with the Benetton Treviso, played with Vicenza and Treviglio before to sign with Latina for the 2011/12 season (29 games, 12.2 ppg, 3.6 rpg, 2.0 apg and 1.9 spg). Tavernelli is a young guard, ex S.Giorgio Legnano, and as for his teammate the next year will be the second with the team. In the last season closed with 6.4 ppg and 3.4 rpg.
Omegna confirms two important players for the next season: Stefano Masciadri (200-F-89) & Andrea Saccaggi (192-G-89, agency: Interperformances). Masciardi led the team with 11.5 ppg and 5.5 rpg in the last championship. The forward played also for Forl and Casale. For Saccaggi this will be the fourth year with the Paffoni after the seasons with Livorno and Treviso. This year produced 11.6 ppg in 26.3 mpg. Both had an experience with the under 18 Italian national team during the European Championships in Madrid (2007) playing 6 games each (9.3 ppg for the ex Benetton).
Emanuele Rossi (208-C-82) stays with Chieti for another season. The expert center it's been one of the best players of the season closing with a double-double in 37 games on 45 totals gaining the title of best rebounder of the league (14.4 ppg and 12.6 rpg adding 2.7 spg and 1.0 bpg). In the last years played with Casale Monferrato, Treviglio and Omegna.
The Orlandina confirms up to 2015 the center Francesco Pellegrino (210-C-91). After the experiences with Gela and Trapani played in the last season 33 games with 2.8 ppg and 3.2 rpg in 9.0 mpg.


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KYRGYZSTAN

Kyrgyzstani National Team 2012 - by Eurobasket

Shakirzhan Kuranbaev

G

Dank

Konstantin Usenko

Dank

Kanat Ibrayev

G/F

Dank

Stanislav Batrakov

F

Bishkek-Dyn.

Artem Borodenko

Dank

Aleksandr Adeykin

F

Bishkek-Dyn.

Robert Pan

Ala-Too

Kyrgyzstani U18 National Team 2012 - by Eurobasket

Dmitriy Svarin

Manas

Robert Pan

Ala-Too

Ravan Djamalov

Zhayil

Aman Abrykerim

Manas

Aleksandr Borshevskiy

Zhayil

Aleksandr Plianin

Manas

Dmitriy Danishin

Mars

Viktor Adamov

Bishkek-Dyn.

Pavel Torin

Bishkek-Dyn.

Adilet Imanaliev

Bishkek-Dyn.

Konstantin Striuk

Zhayil

Maksim Kurilkin

Manas

Aleksandr Dolzhenkov

Head Coach

Rasulbek Begaliev

Assistant

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

LATVIA

U20 European Championship: Latvia stay hopeful with win over Lithuania - by Eurobasket News

Latvia U20 - Lithuania U20 78:75

Latvia remained in the quest for the quarterfinal spot after they narrowly defeated Lithuania in Group F action. Arnolds Helmanis (201-PF-92) and Janis Timma (201-F/G-92, agency: FCM) scored 15 points each to pace the winners.
Latvia jumped to a 21:20 lead ten minutes into the game. Lithuania denied the deficit and surged ahead for a 40:39 halftime lead. Latvia restored the advantage in the third quarter. They held their Baltic neighbours to just 13 points in the period to ensure a 3-point lead before the fourth frame. The lead changed hands for several times throughout intense final quarter. Janis Timma and Silins gave Latvia a 76:73 lead with 12 seconds to go. Redikas narrowed the deficit but Marcis Vitols (189-PG-92) went perfect from the stripe and sealed the victory for Latvia. Marcis Vitols posted 13 points for the winners. Edgaras Ulanovas (197-G-92) answered with 15 points for Lithuania. Arnas Butkevicius (198-SF-92) posted 14 points in the loss.

Latvia U20: Arnolds Helmanis 15, Janis Timma 15, Marcis Vitols 13
Lithuania U20: Edgaras Ulanovas 15, Arnas Butkevicius 14


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LIGA SUDAMERICANA

Standings Liga Sudamericana Standings Group A  1. Cent.Apure 0-0   2. Mavort 0-0   3. Obras 0-0   4. Pinheiros/Sky 0-0  Group B  1. Amistad 0-0   2. Malvin 0-0   3. Regatas C. 0-0   4. Uniceub/BRB 0-0  Group C  1. Flamengo 0-0   2. Hebraica 0-0   3. Penarol 0-0  Group D  1. El Bosque 0-0   2. Libertad S. 0-0   3. S.Jose/Unimed 0-0   4. Tiburones 0-0

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LITHUANIA

Neptunas keeps PG Evaldas Dainys and G Martynas Mazeika - by Eurobasket News

Point guard Evaldas Dainys (180-PG-82, college: Cent.Florida CC) and guard Martynas Mazeika (193-G-85, agency: Interperformances) will stay with Neptunas for the next season, according to Sportas.lt.
Evaldas Dainys joined the club last summer from Rudupis Prienu. He appeared 24 times in LKL averaging 8.6 points, 5.3 assists and 3.2 rebounds. He was top assistant of the league. In Baltic league the player added 6.2 ppg, 4.3 apg (No.3) and 2.4 rpg for 9 games.
Martynas Mazeika arrived to Neptunas two years ago from AEK Athens. Last season he shined with 15.2 ppg, 3.5 rpg and 1.8 apg for 26 LKL games. He was the second scorer of the competition and participated at the All-Star Game. Mazeika had slightly lower numbers in Baltic league. He already was a member of Neptunas from 2000 to 2004 and later in 2008/09 season.


U20 European Championship: Latvia stay hopeful with win over Lithuania - by Eurobasket News

Latvia U20 - Lithuania U20 78:75

Latvia remained in the quest for the quarterfinal spot after they narrowly defeated Lithuania in Group F action. Arnolds Helmanis (201-PF-92) and Janis Timma (201-F/G-92, agency: FCM) scored 15 points each to pace the winners.
Latvia jumped to a 21:20 lead ten minutes into the game. Lithuania denied the deficit and surged ahead for a 40:39 halftime lead. Latvia restored the advantage in the third quarter. They held their Baltic neighbours to just 13 points in the period to ensure a 3-point lead before the fourth frame. The lead changed hands for several times throughout intense final quarter. Janis Timma and Silins gave Latvia a 76:73 lead with 12 seconds to go. Redikas narrowed the deficit but Marcis Vitols (189-PG-92) went perfect from the stripe and sealed the victory for Latvia. Marcis Vitols posted 13 points for the winners. Edgaras Ulanovas (197-G-92) answered with 15 points for Lithuania. Arnas Butkevicius (198-SF-92) posted 14 points in the loss.

Latvia U20: Arnolds Helmanis 15, Janis Timma 15, Marcis Vitols 13
Lithuania U20: Edgaras Ulanovas 15, Arnas Butkevicius 14


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

MONTENEGRO

U20 European Championship: Montenegro rolled over Georgia in Ljubljana - by Eurobasket News

Georgia U20-Montenegro U20 65:81

Montenegro rolled over Georgia in the Classification Round for 13th to 16th Place. The Balkan team overcame the Georgian side 81:65 at the U20 European Championship in Division A.
Montenegro did not waste time and went on a big lead. They had 26:8 surge in the first period and led 43:28 at the halftime. Georgia won the third period 22-21 as Pkhakadze reduced to 60:50. Vukota Pavic (203-C-93) scored four free throws for 64:50 and then Danilo Nikolic (206-C-93) brought 68:58. Ratkovic was the last scorer for the winners in a 16-point victory.
Marko Mugosa (198-F-93) led the way with 21 points and Danilo Nikolic added 18 points and 11 rebounds. Pavle Raickovic (205-F-92) posted 14, while Vukota Pavic collected 8 points and 14 rebounds. Duda Sanadze (196-G/F-92) ended up with 22 points in the losing case and Beka Burjanadze (203-F-94) had 20.
On Wednesday, Montenegro will try to make it two victories in a row in their game against Estonia, while Georgia will seek a first victory against Sweden.

Georgia U20: Duda Sanadze 22, Beka Burjanadze 20
Montenegro U20: Marko Mugosa 21, Danilo Nikolic 18+11 rebs, Pavle Raickovic 14, Vukota Pavic 8+14 rebs


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NBA

Lakers making strong push to land Howard - by Eurobasket News

The Lakers and Magic have rekindled talks that would send center Dwight Howard (6'11''-C-85) to Los Angeles, Yahoo Sports reports.

Howard, in the final year of his contract, hasn't committed to signing a long-term deal with the Lakers, which general manager Mitch Kupchak would consider a non-starter in a proposed deal that could involve Lakers' center Andrew Bynum.

Yahoo reported the two sides were meeting Tuesday with the Lakers "pushing hard" to land Howard.

More than a week of talks with the Brooklyn Nets, to whom Howard said publicly he wanted to be traded, were fruitless. First-year Magic general manager Rob Hennigan asked Howard to reconsider his trade demands, but the five-time All-NBA center refused.

Atlanta, Houston and the Lakers were reportedly in the mix as fall-back options, but Orlando prefers not to take long-term financial commitments back in a trade. Bynum, 24, is in the final year of his contract and might not agree to a long-term deal with the Magic, according to reports.

The Lakers traded two first-round picks to the Phoenix Suns for Steve Nash last week and don't have the same draft assets or salary-cap space as the Rockets.

Courtesy of Yahoo! Sports


Nets to re-sign Keith Bogans; looking at Nazr Mohammed - by Eurobasket News

The Nets are expected to re-sign veteran small forward Keith Bogans (6'5''-G-80, college: Kentucky), a source told the Daily News.

Bogans, 32, played in just five games with the Nets last season before suffering a nasty injury, fracturing his ankle and completely tearing his deltoid ligament. Bogans has remained in the area during and after recovery, training at the Nets practice facility.

The Nets are planning to reward him with a contract.

The signing would give the Nets 12 players under contract, as they also inked Jerry Stackhouse on Monday.

They still need to re-sign Kris Humphries, which a source reiterated Monday was in the works, and find a center to back up Brook Lopez.

Theyre looking at veteran Nazr Mohammed (6'10''-C-77, college: Kentucky), a source told the News.

Mohammed, 34, is an unrestricted free agent after playing 63 games with the Thunder last season. The Nets would have to sign him for the veterans minimum salary because theyre over the salary cap and have exhausted their exceptions.

While filling out the roster, the Nets officially introduced Monday one of their core 4 Gerald Wallace who signed a four-year, $40 million deal.

Wallace said a key factor in his decision was teaming up with Deron Williams.

I feel like we put ourselves pretty much up there in the top five, Wallace said of the Nets chances in the Eastern Conference. We havent proven anything; the teams that are ahead of us, are the teams that have proven themselves, that have already been in the postseason. Just by us putting it on paper, saying we have these guys, theyve been in the league, that doesnt mean anything. We still have to go out and prove ourselves.

Courtesy of www.nydailynews.com


Wizards waive Andray Blatche as amnesty player - by Eurobasket News

Washington Wizards President Ernie Grunfeld announced today that the team has waived forward Andray Blatche (6'11''-F/C-86) and has designated him as the teams amnesty player. Under the NBAs Collective Bargaining Agreement, the amnesty provision allows the Wizards to remove the remainder of Blatches contract from the teams salary cap.

Andray did not figure into our future plans, and using the amnesty provision is a mutually beneficial opportunity for us to part ways, said Grunfeld. We will be able to continue to develop our core group of young players, blend in the solid veterans we have acquired and maintain financial flexibility while Andray will be able to get a fresh start with another team. We wish him the best moving forward.

Blatche averaged 9.9 points and 5.4 rebounds in 409 career games with the Wizards. He was originally acquired as second round selection (49 th overall) in the 2005 NBA Draft.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com


Mavericks get Mayo - by Eurobasket News

Free agent guard O.J. Mayo (6'5''-G-87, college: USC) has apparently joined the Dallas Mavericks.

Mayo, who spent the first four years of his NBA career with Memphis, sent a message via Twitter of his intentions.

"I will be signing with dallas!," Mayo tweeted.

Mavericks owner Mark Cuban also used Twitter to confirm that the team is obtaining Mayo, who has missed just 11 games in his four-year career.

"Welcome to the family OJ. We are fired up !! MFFL Mavs/Mayo Fan For Life!," Cuban wrote.

This past season, Mayo averaged 12.5 points, 3.2 rebounds and 2.6 assists.

Courtesy of www.newsobserver.com


Lin to become a Rocket as Knicks decide not to match - by Eurobasket News

The New York Knicks have given up the pretense of matching the three-year, $25 million offer sheet Jeremy Lin (6'3''-PG-88, college: Harvard) signed with the Rockets, meaning the NBA's first American-born player of Taiwanese or Chinese descent will play for Houston in his second stint with the club, according to The New York Times.

The Knicks had refused to confirm they received the Rockets' offer sheet Saturday, which started the countdown for a decision to match by 11:59 p.m. ET Tuesday.

But The Times, according to a person briefed on the decision, reported the deliberations were considered final Tuesday afternoon on not matching.

Lin, 23, will get about $5 million in each of his first two seasons, then balloon to a guaranteed $15 million in Year 3, an offer Houston made that almost certainly guaranteed the Knicks would have to pass on. Or, if they matched, the Knicks would have to pay through the pocket under the NBA's luxury tax system detailed in the new collective bargaining agreement.

Lin spent less than two weeks in the Rockets' training camp last season before being let go, not because Houston general manager Daryl Morey really wanted to do that. But it was a necessary move to waive him with Kyle Lowry and Goran Dragic on the roster. Lowry is now with the Toronto Raptors and Dragic with the Phoenix Suns.

The Rockets' misfortune became the Knicks' windfall, as Lin emerged out of nowhere to lead New York through a remarkable stretch of the season that directed them into the playoffs. With the Knicks floundering at 8-15 and injuries piling up, Lin got his chance -- and "Linsanity" was born.

The Knicks went on a seven-game winning streak, with Lin scoring increasing career highs: 25 against the then-New Jersey Nets, 28 against the Utah Jazz, up to 38 against the Los Angeles Lakers.

Lin exploded on Twitter and in media around the world, even causing the stock price to surge for Madison Square Garden Inc., the Knicks' parent company.

But the bloom came off when Carmelo Anthony returned from his injury absence, and the losing grew until coach Mike D'Antoni resigned. New coach Mike Woodson was not as big a proponent of Lin, and a knee injury in April effectively ended Lin's career with the Knicks.

Courtesy of www.usatoday.com


Las Vegas Summer League 2012: Day 4 notebook - by Eurobasket News

The NBA's Las Vegas Summer League is officially underway, giving a chance for recently drafted prospects to get their rookie seasons off on the right foot and borderline players to work their way into consideration for roster spots. Teams are constructed in relatively rudimentary form to play in sloppy exhibition games, and yet the summer showcase does grant an opportunityhowever conditionalfor talent scouting.

With that in mind, here's a closer examination of the performance of a few of the standout players from Day 4 in Vegas (CLICK HERE for games results and stats).

Terrence Ross (6'6''-G-91, college: Washington), Toronto Raptors: On first glance, Ross may bear a troubling similarity to those of the classic volume shooter archetype; in a Summer League setting, the No. 8 pick in this summer's draft hasn't been shy about getting shots up, no matter the fact that better looks were almost certainly available.
But discretion can be learned and grown. What's much more difficult to instill are the raw defensive materials that Ross has at his disposal. Regardless of what becomes of his game on the offensive end, Ross already plays some particularly strong on-ball defense, and when working with the benefit of a practiced scheme, he should come to be one of the better up-and-coming defenders in the league. The length, footwork and instincts are all there, and with Dwane Casey's Raptors in the midst of a defensive rebirth, Ross should prove to be an invaluable part of Toronto's game-planning and defensive structure.

Tyler Zeller (7'0''-PF-90, college: N.Carolina), Cleveland Cavaliers: Ideally, Zeller would be playing out his Summer League run alongside Kyrie Irving, but a moment of frustration on Irving's part robbed the Cavs' recently drafted big man of the opportunity to develop chemistry with his playmaking counterpart. Disappointing though that may be, it hasn't stopped Zeller from making an immediate splash in Las Vegas.
The bits of offense are nice, but it's Zeller's activity level that sets him apart. He moves very well on the defensive end in this particular setting, and while the NBA regular season will make a different caliber of athletic opponent the new norm, Zeller seems more than capable of rotating, contesting and filling space. We're obviously not looking at a franchise center, but Zeller looks to be a longtime pro with consistent offensive and defensive utility.

Justin Dentmon (6'0''-G-85, college: Washington), Dallas Mavericks: The reigning D-League MVP has looked solid while suiting up for the Dallas Mavericks' Summer League team, and with Aaron Brooks snatched off the free-agent market by the Sacramento Kings, Dentmon could function in a very similar capacity on a significantly smaller salary.
That comparison may not sound like much of a selling point, but realize that there is a place in the NBA for guards with certain scoring and ball-handling abilities. No one should ask Dentmon to usher in the next era of their organization, but he has real value as a reserve and change-of-pace rotation option. He's imperfect, sure, but all that he brings to the table shouldn't be overlooked because he stands a few inches shorter than some of his contemporaries and doesn't stylistically fit with a pure point guard expectation.

Daniel Orton (6'10''-F-90, college: Kentucky), Toronto Raptors: After having played sparingly in the regular season and a bit in this year's Summer League, Orton has honestly shown little to suggest that he's capable of being of any value on an NBA stagemuch less prove that he was worthy of a first-round selection in 2010. The Orlando Magic's need for center depth behind Dwight Howard and the nature of picking late in the first round may have at one point made Orton an acceptable gamble, but at this point, the 21-year-old isn't even a particularly convincing project.
Orton is tall, and by nature of that alone, he'll get plenty of chances to make an NBA roster. But there's a lot of work to be done in terms of his body, positioning and fundamental skill work before he should be regarded with any defined optimism.

Jae Crowder (6'6''-F-90, college: Marquette), Dallas Mavericks: Crowder is a positionally interesting case as a college big turned NBA wing, but it's that transition that in part allows Crowder to be a particularly excellent help defender. His rotations are as quick and effective as any player in Vegas, and while Crowder may be a work in progress on the offensive end, it's the defensive value, energy and complementary abilities that make him an immediate boon of a second-round pick. The Mavs may have drafted out of the chance to draft Zeller, but they appear to have found themselves a keeper.

Courtesy of http://bleacherreport.com


Jonny Flynn works out for Cavaliers - by Eurobasket News

Free-agent point guard Jonny Flynn (6'0''-G-89, college: Syracuse) worked out with for the Cavaliers on Monday, and there remains strong interest on both sides. Flynn has battled hip injuries in the past, but is healthy now and making a tour of NBA camps.

He has already worked out for the Cavs, Chicago Bulls and Atlanta Hawks and has more teams on the schedule. He isnt close to making a decision, according to a source close to Flynn.

The Cavs have held internal debates about whether or not its necessary to sign another point guard. Kyrie Irving and Donald Sloan are the only pure point guards on the roster, and Sloan is on a non-guaranteed contract.

Dion Waiters can certainly run the offense and Daniel Gibson, when healthy, can handle the point guard role in an emergency. But coach Byron Scott said hed feel more comfortable with another true point guard, particularly in case Irving gets injured again.

Courtesy of The Akron Beacon Journal (via www.insidehoops.com)


Kobe Bryant says retiring at age 35 'still probably accurate', 'could happen' - by Eurobasket News

Kobe Bryant (6'6''-G-78) is still playing at such a high level that retirement doesn't really seem like an option. The 33-year-old isn't ruling out walking away in two years, though.

Bryant sat down for an interview with Yahoo! Sports' Graham Bensinger recently, and the Laker great was reminded of his rookie season, when he said he would retire at age 35. Now that he's about to enter season No. 17, the 14-time All-Star says that's "still probably accurate," something that might come as a surprise to Lakers fans who watch him night in and night out.

"That's a long time to be playing," Bryant said. "It'll be the last year of my contract. I don't know if I will play any longer than that. I don't know. It's just a possibility. It's not something I even give it much thought to, but it's a possibility. It could happen."

With this news, the acquisition of 38-year-old Steve Nash and Pau Gasol turning 32 earlier this summer, it's obvious the Lakers are an aging team whose championship window may be closing sometime soon. Bryant's contract runs through the 2013-14 season, at which point he plans to make a decision.

"I think you've seen so many players retire, think they know and then come back. I don't want to be one of those guys, but I know they've all said it too," Bryant said. "It must be tougher than it sounds to be able to retire and know when that moment is actually there. We'll cross that bridge when we get to it, I guess."

In other words, cherish these moments, all you Lakers fans. That bridge is fast approaching.

Courtesy of www.nesn.com


Grant Hill reaches deal with Clippers - by Eurobasket News

The Clippers continue to put together an impressive roster, getting free-agent forward Grant Hill (6'8''-F-72, college: Duke) to agree Tuesday to join the team, according to NBA executives who were not authorized to speak publicly on the matter.

He will be the backup small forward behind starter Caron Butler

Hill, who will be 40 in October when training camp opens, has had a productive 17-year career despite ankle injuries that almost derailed it.

He averaged 10.2 points on 44.6% shooting last season with the Phoenix Suns, 3.5 rebounds and 2.2 assists in 28.1 minutes.

Over his career, the 6-foot-8 Hill has averaged 17.5 points, 6.1 rebounds and 4.2 assists.

Hill was swayed to join the Clippers rather than the Lakers (a team that had also expressed interest in him) after he met with Clippers Coach Vinny Del Negro in Las Vegas on Sunday, had dinner with Chauncey Billups recently in Vegas and had a phone conversation with Chris Paul.

Courtesy of www.latimes.com


Sixers agree to terms with Royal Ivey - by Eurobasket News

Guard Royal Ivey (6'3''-PG-81, college: Texas) has returned to the Sixers, coach Doug Collins told reporters today.

The 6-4 Ivey played in 71 games with the Sixers in 2008-09, averaging 3 points per game in 12.1 minutes as a reserve. Ivey appeared in 26 games the following season before he was traded to Milwaukee in the deal that brought Jodie Meeks.

He spent the last two seasons with Oklahoma City, playing in 25 games two years ago and 34 games last season. He also appeared in five playoff games as the Thunder reached the NBA Finals this past season.

In eight seasons out of the University of Texas, Ivey, 31, has averaged 3.4 points, 1.1 rebounds and 1.1 assists.

Collins also announced that Kwame Brown passed his physical. The 30-year-old center will be joining his seventh NBA team since being selected with the No. 1 overall pick out of high school in 2001.

Courtesy of www.philly.com


Lakers close to adding Jermaine O'Neal - by Eurobasket News

On Monday, we posted on L.A.'s pursuit of Antawn Jamison (6'9''-F-76, college: N.Carolina) nearing completion, bringing the veteran forward to Lakers team stacking up for a run. On Tuesday, Yahoo Sports reported that the Lakers are also close signing veteran, and we mean veteran, Jermaine O'Neal (6'11''-F/C-78).

O'Neal played in just 25 games last season for Boston, and just 24 the year before as injuries have pushed him to the edge of retirement. It was thought by many that last season would be the last ride for the former All-Star. O'Neal himself said during the lockout that last season would be the end. Apparently he's changed his mind.

O'Neal had season-ending wrist surgery in March. It's not known if he can add anything at all. But for a team desperate for reserve big men, he may not be a bad fit. Even if he can't give the Lakers anything, that's roughly the same as Troy Murphy last season. Yahoo also reports that Jordan Hill is still in talks with the Lakers after a promising season with L.A. last year after being traded in the Derek Fisher deal.

O'Neal would sign for the veteran's minimum.

Courtesy of www.cbssports.com


Nike signs Anthony Davis to sponsorship deal - by Eurobasket News

Donning a suit made from recycled Nike running shoes, top NBA pick and New Orleans Hornets' player Anthony Davis (6'10''-F-93, college: Kentucky) pledged his allegiance to Nike on Tuesday morning.

As Yahoo Sports reports, terms of the contract haven't been made public, but already Nike has commissioned a Davis art print. Also the former University of Kentucky standout has been wearing the Nike Hyperdunk 2012 shoe while playing with the Team USA Olympic team.

The deal continues a Nike tradition of signing No. 1 draft picks. Davis is the seventh top pick signed by the footwear giant.

Courtesy of www.bizjournals.com


Wizards expected to amnesty Blatche - by Eurobasket News

The Wizards are leaning toward designating Andray Blatche (6'11''-F/C-86) as their amnesty player if a last-minute trade doesn't materialize before Tuesday's 5 p.m. deadline, according to multiple reports.

If Washington does not exercise the provision, then it must wait until next summer. The new collective bargaining agreement allows a team to waive a player and have his contract no longer count against the salary cap if the deal was signed before the CBA was instituted.

Blatche, who is owed approximately $23 million over the next three years, has not played for the Wizards since March, when he was given an indefinite absence from the team in order to work on conditioning. The team has been trying to trade him since. If amnestied, Blatche would become available to other teams who are under the salary cap via auction.

Even if he is not amnestied, Blatche is not expected to play for the team next season.

A second-round draft pick in 2005, Blatche moved into the starting lineup after the 2010 All-Star break following the departure of Antawn Jamison and averaged 19.8 points and 8.5 rebounds. He was rewarded with a five-year, $35 million contract extension before the 2010-11 season but hasn't lived up to expectations since.

Blatche fell out of favor last year, in which his averages fell to 8.5 points and 5.8 rebounds and he was booed by home fans at Verizon Center.

Courtesy of http://washingtonexaminer.com


Report: Antawn Jamison signs with Los Angeles Lakers - by Eurobasket News

Free-agent forward Antawn Jamison (6'9''-F-76, college: N.Carolina) will sign with the Los Angeles Lakers, The Charlotte Observers Rick Bonnell reported Monday night. Jamison had drawn interest from the Charlotte Bobcats, the Brooklyn Nets and the Golden State Warriors. From Bonnells report:

The Bobcats were recruiting free agent Jamison as both a power forward and a veteran mentor to a young team. Jamison was torn between the chance to play for his hometown team or to pursue a championship with what figures to be his last NBA contract.

The Lakers targeted Jamison in their search for backup big men, along with Elton Brand and Jermaine ONeal, ESPN Los Angeles reported on Friday.

The 36-year-old Jamison scored 17.2 points per game and had 6.3 rebounds per game last season while playing with the Cleveland Cavaliers. But he also hit a career-low 40.3 percent of his shots from the field.

Jamison becomes another piece to the Lakers veteran puzzle. They have also added point guard Steve Nash this offseason.

Courtesy of http://tracking.si.com


NBA announces affiliations with NBA Development League for 2012-13 season - by Eurobasket News

The National Basketball Association and the NBA Development League, the official minor league of the NBA, today announced the affiliation system for the 2012-13 season. An all-time high eleven NBA teams will have single NBA D-League affiliates including first-year partnerships between the Boston Celtics and Maine Red Claws and the Portland Trail Blazers and Idaho Stampede.
For the eighth consecutive year, each NBA team has one NBA D-League team to which it may assign players. During the 2011-12 season, the NBA D-League saw all-time highs in NBA player assignments (67) and individual players assigned (44) from their NBA parent clubs. Jeremy Lin headlines the group of 44 players to benefit from the assignment system during the 2011-12 season. Lin returned to the NBA D-League, joining the New York Knicks affiliate Erie BayHawks for one game following a 20 game assignment from the Golden State Warriors to the Reno Bighorns the previous year. In 21 total games over two seasons, Lin averaged 18.5 points and 4.7 assists.

Beginning in the 2012-13 season, NBA players in the first three years of their careers may be assigned to their NBA D-League affiliate an unlimited number of times, according to the NBA Collective Bargaining Agreement. For the second consecutive year, players beyond the first three years of their NBA careers may be assigned to their NBA D-League affiliate with their consent and the consent of the NBA Players Association.

"We're thrilled to have 11 single affiliates next season in the NBA D-League while continuing a highly effective development system that benefits all 30 NBA teams and 16 NBA D-League teams," said Dan Reed, NBA D-League President. "The assignment system has proven to be an invaluable tool in the development of countless young NBA prospects, and I look forward to watching a new crop of players benefit from increased playing time and exposure while on assignment in the NBA D-League next year."

Of the 16 NBA D-League teams playing during the 2012-13 season, five are fully owned and operated by their NBA affiliates: the Austin Toros (San Antonio Spurs), Canton Charge (Cleveland Cavaliers), Dakota Wizards (Golden State Warriors), Los Angeles D-Fenders (Los Angeles Lakers), and Tulsa 66ers (Oklahoma City Thunder). The Wizards have applied to relocate the team from Bismarck, North Dakota to Santa Cruz, California in a move that would bring the team closer to the Warriors. The Erie BayHawks (New York Knicks), Rio Grande Valley Vipers (Houston Rockets) and Springfield Armor (Brooklyn Nets) join the Stampede (Trail Blazers) and Red Claws (Celtics) as teams with "hybrid' single-affiliation partnerships, where the NBA teams control their NBA D-League affiliates' basketball operations. The Dallas Mavericks remain solely affiliated with the Texas Legends.

The remaining five NBA D-League teams will have three or four NBA parent teams: Bakersfield Jam (Atlanta Hawks, Los Angeles Clippers, Phoenix Suns, Toronto Raptors), Fort Wayne Mad Ants (Charlotte Bobcats, Detroit Pistons, Indiana Pacers, Milwaukee Bucks), Iowa Energy (Chicago Bulls, Denver Nuggets, New Orleans Hornets, Washington Wizards), Reno Bighorns (Memphis Grizzlies, Sacramento Kings, Utah Jazz), Sioux Falls Skyforce (Miami Heat, Minnesota Timberwolves, Orlando Magic, Philadelphia 76ers).

The NBA D-League continues to be a launching pad for NBA talent - 27 percent of all NBA players on 2011-12 end-of-season rosters have played in the NBA D-League, while one third of the NBA Draft classes from 2009, 2010, and 2011 played in the NBA D-League.


The complete affiliation system for 2012-13 is listed below:

2012-13 NBA DEVELOPMENT LEAGUE TEAM AFFILIATIONS

AUSTIN TOROS (TX)
San Antonio Spurs

BAKERSFIELD JAM (CA)
Atlanta Hawks
Los Angeles Clippers
Phoenix Suns
Toronto Raptors

CANTON CHARGE (OH)
Cleveland Cavaliers

DAKOTA WIZARDS (Bismarck, ND)
Golden State Warriors

ERIE BAYHAWKS (PA)
New York Knicks

FORT WAYNE MAD ANTS (IN)
Charlotte Bobcats
Detroit Pistons
Indiana Pacers
Milwaukee Bucks

IDAHO STAMPEDE (Boise, ID)
Portland Trail Blazers

IOWA ENERGY (Des Moines, IA)
Chicago Bulls
Denver Nuggets
New Orleans Hornets
Washington Wizards

LOS ANGELES D-FENDERS (CA)
Los Angeles Lakers

MAINE RED CLAWS (Portland, ME)
Boston Celtics

RENO BIGHORNS (NV)
Memphis Grizzlies
Sacramento Kings
Utah Jazz

RIO GRANDE VALLEY VIPERS (TX)
Houston Rockets

SIOUX FALLS SKYFORCE (SD)
Miami Heat
Minnesota Timberwolves
Orlando Magic
Philadelphia 76ers

SPRINGFIELD ARMOR (MA)
Brooklyn Nets

TEXAS LEGENDS (Frisco, TX)
Dallas Mavericks

TULSA 66ERS (OK)
Oklahoma City Thunder

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com


Grant Hill leaning toward signing with the Lakers - by Eurobasket News

The trade speculation surrounding Dwight Howard (6'11''-C-85) has begun to ramp up once again. With Los Angeles Lakers reportedly in talks to acquire Howard in the three-team trade with the Orlando Magic and Cleveland Cavaliers, the superstar center may be headed to the City of Angels in the next few days.

In the meantime, the Lakers are exploring all sorts of free agent options in order to upgrade the bench. As arguably the biggest weakness as of right now, the bench is in serious need of an overhaul if the Lakers intend on contending for an NBA title next season and beyond.

Even though the Lakers are limited in terms of free agent options due to the inability to sign players to lucrative contracts, Los Angeles still has some intriguing options with veteran Grant Hill potentially at the top of the list.

.Video: Grant Hill Career Mix.Reportedly, Hill is heavily leaning towards signing with the Lakers over the Miami Heat and Oklahoma City Thunder according to John Gambadoro of Sports 620 KTAR via Twitter:

Hearing Grant Hill leaning towards Lakers after big push by Steve Nash and Kobe Bryant

With the limitations in free agency, Hill is arguably the best option at the veterans minimum of $1.4 million. The Lakers do have the mini-midlevel exception of $3 million per season at their disposal, but the team wants to hold onto that until the Howard trade situation is resolved.

Another free agent option with the veterans minimum is veteran forward Antawn Jamison. There appears to be mutual interest between Jamison and the Lakers, but nothing is imminent at this point in time. Theres chance that both Hill and Jamison may ink one-year deals with the Lakers.

Courtesy of www.examiner.com


Clippers F Blake Griffin undergoes successful knee surgery - by Eurobasket News

Car-hurdling is officially off limits, at least for the summer.

The Los Angeles Clippers announced that high-flying All-Star forward Blake Griffin (6'10''-F-89, college: Oklahoma) underwent successful arthroscopic surgery on his left knee on Monday.

Griffin suffered a medial meniscus tear during USA Basketball training camp in Las Vegas last week. He banged knees during a scrimmage and later experienced discomfort and swelling. He returned to Los Angeles to undergo an MRI and surgery was recommended.

The surgery and rehabilitation will sideline him from participating in the 2012 London Olympics. The Clippers announced that Griffin will be ready to go for fall training camp in advance of the 2012-13 season.

The No. 1 pick in the 2009 NBA Draft, Griffin missed the entire 2009-10 season with a left knee injury. Griffin also hyperflexed his left knee during the 2012 playoffs.

Griffin, 23, was named to his second All-Star Game in 2012, averaging 20.7 points and 10.9 rebounds per game.

He signed a 5-year max contract worth $95 million just days before he suffered his injury.

New Orleans Hornets rookie big man Anthony Davis replaced Griffin on Team USA.

Courtesy of www.cbssports.com


Sacramento Kings sign PG Aaron Brooks, waive Whiteside - by Eurobasket News

The Sacramento Kings have signed point guard Brooks Aaron (6'0''-PG-85, college: Oregon).

The Kings also waived center Hassan Whiteside on Monday to clear space for Brooks. Phoenix withdrew its qualifying offer to Brooks on July 7, making him an unrestricted free agent.

Brooks was acquired from Houston at the 2011 trade deadline and appeared in 25 games with the Suns, averaging 9.6 points and 4.2 assists in 18.9 minutes. He played in China last season.

Terms of the deal were not announced.

Sacramento drafted Whiteside 33rd overall in 2010 as a freshman out of Marshall. The 7-footer averaged 1.5 points and 2.1 rebounds in 19 games with the Kings over two seasons. He played in just one game his rookie year after tearing a tendon in his left knee in training camp.

Courtesy of http://msn.foxsports.com


Nets sign veteran Jerry Stackhouse to one-year deal - by Eurobasket News

The Brooklyn Nets continue to work over their roster, signing veteran guard Jerry Stackhouse (6'6''-G-74, college: N.Carolina) to a contract, the team announced Monday.

Stackhouse, 37, signed a one-year deal, worth $1.3 million.

Stackhouse is expected to provide scoring off the bench behind Gerald Wallace, Joe Johnson, and Deron Williams. The 17-year veteran, who has played for eight different teams, averaged 3.6 points in 30 games with the Atlanta Hawks last season. He averaged 17.4 points, 3.4 assists and 3.3 rebounds for his career.

Courtesy of http://tracking.si.com


Kings waive center Hassan Whiteside - by Eurobasket News

The Kings waived center Hassan Whiteside (7'0''-C/F-89, college: Marshall), the team announced Monday afternoon. Whiteside, the No. 33 overall pick in 2010 out of Marshall, appeared in just 19 games over two seasons with the Kings. He averaged 1.5 points and 2.1 rebounds per game, and appeared in only one game during his rookie season because of a knee problem. Whiteside spent just one year with Marshall. He was named All-C-USA 2nd Team -10, C-USA All-Freshman Team -10, C-USA All-Defensive Team -10, All-C-USA Defensive Player of the Year -10, All-C-USA Freshman of the Year -10, NABC Division I All-District 11 2nd Team -10 and AP NCAA All-America Honorable Mention -10.


Knicks sign free agent forward Chris Copeland - by Eurobasket News

The New York Knicks signed free agent forward Christopher Copeland (6'8''-F-84, college: Colorado) on Monday. Per team policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Copeland spent the past five seasons playing in Europe and played 19 games at Fort Wayne of the NBADL in 2006-07.

The New Jersey native played four years at the University of Colorado. He averaged 12.1 points and 5.1 rebounds over 30 games in his senior season of 2005-06.

Courtesy of www.sacbee.com


Nets bring back Kris Humphries - by Bryan Floyd

Kris Humphries (6'9''-F-85, college: Minnesota) has re-signed with the Nets for two years and $24 million, according to ESPN's Marc Stein. The Nets will have roughly $30 million dollars committed to their two big men next season. Humphries is one of the leagues best rebounders and is a very good player, but that contract is obviously just great work by his agent. He averaged a very solid 13.8 points, 11.0 rebounds and 1.2 blocks in 35 minutes per game last season.


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POLAND

Polpharma adds Daniel Szymkiewicz and Wojciech Fras - by Eurobasket News

Polpharma Starogard continues with signings for the next season. Latest additions to the team are guard Daniel Szymkiewicz (193-G-94) and forward Wojciech Fras (203-F-91). Both players spent last season with Trefl Sopot.
Daniel Szymkiewicz mostly played for Trefl Sopot II in 2Liga. He averaged 10 points, 3.4 rebounds, 3 assists and 2.5 steals in 14 games. Szymkiewicz played for Polish U19 and U18 National Team last summer. In the past, he also was a member of U17 and U16 NT.
Wojciech Fras appeared 6 times with Trefl Sopot in PLK registering 1.5 ppg. He added 15.2 ppg, 9.8 rpg, 3.1 spg and 2.5 apg for 17 games with Trefl Sopot II in 2Liga and was named Eurobasket.com All-Polish 2Liga Group A Best Young Player of the Year -12. Fras arrived to the club a year ago from MKS Znicz Basket Pruszkow. In the past, he very successfully played for Polish youth National Teams. Last summer at U20 EuroBasket Division B in Sarajevo he had 13.6 ppg and 6.9 rpg for 9 games.


Energa Czarni inks PG Todd Abernethy - by Eurobasket News

Todd Abernethy (185-PG-84, college: Mississippi) is a new member of Energa Czarni Slupsk, the club announced today. Abernethy signed a deal for the next season. He spent the last one with BK Ventspils averaging 8.7 points, 3.7 assists and 3 rebounds for 13 games in EuroChallenge. He had almost the same numbers in Baltic and Latvian league. Before Ventspils, Abernethy played half of the season with Politekhnika-Halychyna. There he had 10.9 ppg, 5.2 apg and 3.9 rpg for 31 games. Abernethy also has experience from Estonia and Holland. The player graduated at the University of Mississippi in 2007. He had 11.2 ppg, 5.5 apg and 3 rpg for 33 games as a senior.


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PORTUGAL

Enel Brindisi signs PG Robert Fultz - by Eurobasket News

Enel Brindisi reinforced its roster at position 1. The SerieA newcomer signed a deal with Portuguese/Italian player Robert Fultz (189-PG-82, agency: Interperformances). He arrives to the club from Teramo, where he averaged 9.5 points and 3.3 assists for 26 games last season. Fultz joined Teramo in February of 2011 from LegaDue team Reggio Emilia. For 8 SerieA games the PG had 6.6 ppg and 2.1 apg. Before that, Fults registered 9.2 ppg, 3.1 apg and 2.4 rpg for 17 games in LegaDue with Reggio Emilia. He played for Regio Emilia also in 2008/09 and 2009/10 seasons. Robert Fultz was a member of Scavolini in 2008/09 and before that he played for Climamio Bologna. The player also has experience from Livorno. In 2007, Fults won LegaDue title with Scavolini.


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ROMANIA

Aerosvit Cup-2012: Ukraine beat Romania in Yuzny - by Eurobasket News

Ukraine -Romania 83:58

Ukraine beat Romania in Yuzny at the start of the Aerosvit Cup-2012. The hosts of the tournament won all the quarters in the game for 83:58 victory.
Ukraine started with 19-15 and added 21-10 in the second frame. The hosts had 40:25 at the halftime and led 50:30 after 25 minutes of the game. Romanian reduced to 57:39 at the end of the third quarter but trailed 21 points with 5 minutes to go. Moreover Ukraine pushed the tempo for good at the end of the game to seal 25-point victory.
Kyryl Natyazhko (210-C-90, agency: Beo Basket, college: Arizona) stepped up with 16 points and 11 rebounds, while Maxym Korniyenko notched 14. Igor Zaytsev poured in 10 and Aleksandr Lipoviy added 9. Andrei Mandache (189-G-87, agency: Global Sports Plaza) replied with 15 points in the losing effort and Ionut Dragusin (221-C-85) scored 8. Mihail-Octavian Paul (191-G-82) delivered 7, while Dragos Andrei (186-G-87), Titus Nikoara and Vlad Moldoveanu (206-F/C-88, college: American) posted 6 each.

Ukraine: Kyryl Natyazhko 16+11 rebs, Maxym Korniyenko (205-F/C-87) 14, Igor Zaytsev (210-F/C-89) 10, Aleksandr Lipoviy 9
Romania: Andrei Mandache 15, Ionut Dragusin 8, Mihail-Octavian Paul 7, Dragos Andrei 6, Titus Nikoara 6, Vlad Moldoveanu 6


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RUSSIA

Unics eye Stratos Perperoglou - by Eurobasket News

Unics might soon announce the third Greek strengthening of their roster. The Kazan team is interested in landing Stratos Perperoglou (203-F-84). The Kazan team have already inked deals with Kostas Kaimakoglou (206-C/F-83) and Ian Vougioukas (212-C/F-85, college: St.Louis).
Stratos Perperoglou has been playing for Panathinaikos since 2007. Last season the forward averaged 3.7 points and 1.5 rebounds per Euroleague game. In A1 League Stratos Perperoglou posted 7.5 points, 3.3 boards, 1.9 assists and 1.3 steals per appearance. The forward played for Ilysiakos and Panionios before joining Panathinaikos. He participated at Greek All-Star Games in 2007, 08, 09, 10 and 11 seasons. Stratos Perperoglou made it into Greek A1 League All-Domestic Players Team in 2007 and 2011. He has been the member of Greek National Team since 2009.


U20 European Championship: Germany gain second straight win at Second Stage - by Eurobasket News

Germany U20 - Russia U20 74:59

German U20 National Team registered the second straight win at the Second Stage of European Championhip in Slovenia. They overcame Russia to improve at 3-1 record in Group E. Russia in the meantime suffered the second loss in a row and fell at 2-2 record. Johannes Voigtmann (210-C-92, agency: Limelight Hoops) came up with 15 points to lead the winners.
Russia enjoyed a 17:16 lead ten minutes into the game. But Germany turned things around in the second quarter. They went on a 12:2 run midway through the period to ensure a 30:25 lead. Germany finished the half up by 8 points 37:29. Germany maintained the lead throughout the third term. They accumulated a 50:41 advantage at the final intermission. Germany opened the fourth frame with 9 points in a row to clear off. They never looked back cruising to the victory at the end. Patrick Heckmann (198-G/F-92) accounted for 12 points, while Daniel Theis (206-C/F-92) added 11 points in the victory. Vladislav Trushkin (201-F-93) answered with 11 points for Russia. Aleksandr Gudumak (204-F-93) netted 9 points in the loss.

Germany U20: Johannes Voigtmann 15, Patrick Heckmann 12, Daniel Theis 11
Russia U20: Vladislav Trushkin 11, Aleksandr Gudumak 9


Ian Vougioukas joins Unics - by Eurobasket News

Ian Vougioukas (212-C/F-85, college: St.Louis) will continue his career in Kazan. The centre has agreeed on terms of contract with Unics. Ian Vougioukas spent the last two seasons with Panathinaikos. He averaged 7.2 points and 2.2 rebounds per game in Euroleague last season. In A1 League the centre posted 8.7 points and 3.0 rebounds per appearance. Eurobasket.com named Ian Vougioukas into Greek A1 League All-Domestic Players Team. Previously Ian Vougioukas had stints with Panellinios and Olympiakos. He was the member of Greek B National Team in 2009. The centre has been the member of Greek National Team since 2010. Ian Vougioukas also played for U16, U18 and U20 National selections.

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SERBIA

U20 European Championship: Serbia dismantle Greece to stay perfect - by Eurobasket News

Serbia U20 - Greece U20 86:69

Serbia secured the fifth straight win at the U20 European Championship. They fired past Greece to improve at 4-0 record in Group E. Nenad Miljenovic (194-G-93, agency: Beo Basket) came up with 16 points to lead the winners.
Serbia and Greece traded baskets throughout the opening quarter. The scoreboard read 21:21 after ten minutes. Serbia pulled ahead for a narrow 38:37 halftime lead. The Balkan team surged ahead in the third quarter. Serbia unleashed 28 points to leave Greece far behind. The Hellenes faced a massive 17-point deficit before the fourth term. Serbia and Greece scored 20 points apiece in the final quarter as the Balkan team coasted to the victory. Bogdan Bogdanovic (197-F-92) accounted for 15 points, while Luka Mitrovic (204-F/C-93) added 13 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Anastasios Antonakis (204-PF-92) notched 21 points for Greece. Giannoulis Larentzakis (195-SG-93, agency: FCM) had 16 points in the loss.

Serbia U20: Nenad Miljenovic 16, Bogdan Bogdanovic 15, Luka Mitrovic 13+10 boards
Greece U20: Anastasios Antonakis 21, Giannoulis Larentzakis 16


Dusan Sakota signs with Italian Varese - by Eurobasket News

Dusan Sakota will continue his career in Italy. The 26-year-old player penned a deal with SerieA team Varese. Sakota finished last season with Enisey Krasnoyarsk. He appeared 10 times in Russian league averaging 9.9 points and 2.8 rebounds. The player had almost the same numbers in 9 VTB United League games. Dusan Sakota started last season with Belgian Oostende. There he had 10 ppg and 3.4 rpg gor 8 EuroCup games. In Belgian league, he added 10.4 ppg and 1.8 rpg for 8 appearances. Dusan Sakota is not a new face in Italy as he played for Scavolini in 2009/10 season. He averaged 11.3 points and 3.5 rebounds in SerieA. In the past, Sakota spent several years with Panathinaikos Athens.


Partizan and Dusan Kecman part ways - by Eurobasket News

Dusan Kecman (197-F-77, agency: Beo Basket) is no longer a member of Partizan. His contract expired and will not be extended, according to local media. Earlier this month, Partizan parted ways with its longtime captain Petar Bozic (197-G-78). Kecman played 10 Euroleague games last season averaging 6.2 points and 2.5 rebounds. He had almost the same numbers in 27 Adriatic league games. In Serbian league, Kecman added 4.2 ppg and 1.7 apg. He helped Partizan to defend Serbian league title and Cup trophy.
Dusan Kecman returned to Partizan in 2009 from Panathinaikos Athens. He played for the Serbian powerhouse also from 2002 to 2004 and from 2006 to 2008. Kecman has experience from Greece, Turkey, Belgium, Ukraine and from the National Team as well.
According to online media, Partizan offered deal to center Elton Brown (206-C-83, college: Virginia). They gave up on returning Ratko Varda (216-C/F-79).


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SLOVAKIA

MBK Rieker Komarno with Complete Roster - by Thomas Kottra

Slovakian league last seasons runner-up MBK Rieker Komarno finished their roster for upcoming season adding center Ondrej Soska (208-C-78).
They are traditionally one step ahead in front of their opponents completing and announcing the roster in early summer days. Manager Jozef Paulik stated that they are not willing to make any secrets. "We do it like this for years and I don't think it ever had any negative effects, rather positive. When the team is completed earlier, everybody knows, where they stand- players, management, but mostly the coach," he told to eBasket reporter Robert Bucek in an short interview few days ago.
For now it seems like Komarno will not sign any new names. Current roster stopped at number ten plus two with old squad members - guards Lukas Dubovsky (191-G-87) Martin Bilik (194-F-87), Martin Binovsky (185-G-87) and Czech forward Jan Kratochvil (200-F-82). First announced newcomer for this year was experienced wing-man Marek Kozlik (187-F-86), followed by Komarno-raised Ladislav Stojanov (194-F-88) who has won two titles.

Completely new is trio of American players counting playmaker Chris Lowe (182-PG-87, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: Massachusetts) and two fresh college graduates- Nasir Robinson (195-F-89, agency: TSS Management, college: Pittsburgh) and Kevin Thompson (205-F-89, college: Morgan St.), both forwards.
The first of mentioned "pus two" on the list is center Michal Maslik (209-C-89) who fell of injured in pre-season 2011/2012 and after a year-long rehabilitation is ordered to get back in shape until half of September to be allowed to play for team. Second is Vladimir Klar (191-F-86), who suffered a knee injury in quarter-final match of Slovak Cup early in february. He is expected to return to courts in winter but anything is sure here.
The newest man in squad of Komarno is Slovak center Ondrej Soska who completed last season slightly injured in BK Vahostav-SK Zilina, team who's not going to participate in Slovakian Extraliga this year.
"The objectives remain unchanged- the TOP4 of Extraliga," closed Paulik the interview.

Milan Ziak Joins Champion - by Thomas Kottra

Twenty three years old guard decided to change his jersey after contract with bronze medalist BK Bemaco SPU Nitra expired.

His former team failed to put talented Milan Ziak (190-G-88) to its roster again. "I was offered by both clubs- Nitra and Prievidza and decided to opt for the second one," stated Ziak after announcing that his career will continue in team of current Slovak Champion. As he added, he wants to try something new and move forward so the ambitious team of Prievidza is the best choice for him.
Ziak is actually first officially reported player joining roster of champion for the upcoming season after Prievidza failed to motivate coach Johan Roijakkers to stay with club.
Milan Ziak left Nitra after six seasons. In last one he averaged 11.6 points, 2.7 rebounds and 1.7 assists and also participated in 5 Eurochallenge matches. News were released by SITA press agency.

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SLOVENIA

Jure Balazic moves to Erdemir - by Eurobasket News

Jure Balazic (204-F-80) agreed terms with Erdemir for the next season, according to Slovenian media (Kosarka.si). The player signed a deal today. Balazic played for Krka Novo Mesto from 2007 until this summer. Last season he had 9.6 ppg and 4.9 rpg for 12 games in EuroCup. The player averaged 9.9 points and 4.2 rebounds for 25 Adriatic league games, while in Slovenian championship he had slightly better numbers. Balazic helped Krka to win three titles in Slovenia (10, 11, 12). They also were EuroChallenge champions a year ago. Before Krka, Jure Balazic spent one year with Hungarian team Atomeromu. In 2005/06, he played half of the season with APOEL Nicosia and half with Krka, where he also played from 1997 to 2005. Balazic has experience from KK Zagreb as well.


U20 European Championship: Slovenia survive thriller against Turkey - by Eurobasket News

Slovenia U20 - Turkey U20 72:71

Slovenia remained undefeated at U20 European Championship. The hosts knocked down Turkey for the fifth straight win tonight. Klemen Prepelic (194-G-92) came up with 29 points to lead the winners. Slovenia are now at 4-0 record, while Turkey slipped at 2-2 in Group F.
Turkey grabbed a 21:19 lead ten minutes into the game. Slovenia erased the distance and eked out a narrow 41:39 halftime lead. The teams stayed neck and neck throughout the third quarter. Calban capped the period with six points in a row to give the visitors a 60:56 lead. The lead grew at 8-point mark midway through the final quarter 66:58. However Gezim Morina (204-C/F-92) scored 6 points in an 8:2 run from Slovenia that cut the margin to two points. Klemen Prepelic and Alen Omic (215-C-92) put the hosts in front 70:69. Tekin gave the lead back to Turkey but Gezim Morina converted a layup to seal the victory for Slovenia. Gezim Morina accounted for 13 points, while Alen Omic posted 12 points and 9 rebounds in the victory. Berkay Candan (204-F-93) answered with 15 points for Turkey. Ayhan Onur Kentli (192-SG-92, agency: 1x1 Sports) had 9 points in the loss.

Slovenia U20: Klemen Prepelic 29, Gezim Morina 13, Alen Omic 12
Turkey U20: Berkay Candan 15, Ayhan Onur Kentli 9


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SPAIN

Spain narrowly defeat Australia in Granada - by Eurobasket News

Spain - Australia 75:69

Spain claimed a narrow win over Australia in the opening game of two-game exhibition series. Pau Gasol (214-F/C-80) scored 22 points and grabbed 6 rebounds to lead the winners.
Spain jumped to an early lead and posted a 19:16 advantage after ten minutes. The hosts stayed in front throughout the bigger part of the second quarter. But the Boomers finally denied the deficit and drew things level at 35 at halftime. Australia pulled in front early in the third term. However Spain managed to regain the lead and ensured a 54:53 advantage with one quarter remaining. The gap grew at 5-point mark midway through the fourth quarter. Spain did not loosen the grasp in the final minutes and sealed the victory at the end. Felipe Reyes (203-F/C-80) accounted for 12 points, while Rudy Fernandez (198-G/F-85) provided 9 points in the win. Brad Newley (201-F/G-85, agency: Beo Basket) answered with 16 points for Australia. Patrick Mills (183-PG-88, college: St.Mary's, CA) had 14 points, while David Andersen (211-C-80) netted 12 points in the loss.

Spain: Pau Gasol 22, Felipe Reyes 12, Rudy Fernandez 9
Australia: Brad Newley 16, Patrick Mills 14, David Andersen 12


U20 European Championship: Italy nip Spain - by Eurobasket News

Italy U20 - Spain U20 78:76

Italy recorded the first win at the second stage of U20 European Championship. They knocked down Spain in Group F to catch up with their opponents at 2-2 record in the ladder. Awudu Abass (196-G-93) came up with 24 points and 12 rebounds for the winners.
Spain led by as many as 6 points after ten minutes 28:22. But Italy slowed the reigning champions down in the second frame. The Azzurri got within 4 points at halftime 39:35. Italy denied the deficit and pulled in front for a 57:56 lead with ten minutes remaining. Pozas gave Spain a 66:63 lead midway through the final frame but Italy surged back in front. The Azzurri posted a 74:66 lead with under two minutes to go. Daniel Diez (203-F-93) and Alejandro Abrines (198-F-93) kept Spain hopeful narrowing the deficit to just two points 76:78 but Servera missed a potential winner and Italy got away with a narrow win. Andrea Traini (184-PG-92) posted 18 points for Italy. Marco Ceron (194-G-92) added 7 points in the victory. Daniel Diez answered with 17 points for Spain. Alejandro Abrines finished with 14 points in the losing case.

Italy U20: Awudu Abass 24+12 boards, Andrea Traini 18, Marco Ceron 7
Spain U20: Daniel Diez 17, Alejandro Abrines 14


Unicaja gets bigger with Fran Vazquez, top prospect Alejandro Abrines heads to Barca - by Eurobasket News

Unicaja Malaga officially announced signing of Fran Vazquez (209-C-83) to 2+1 year deal. According to various media, the player had better offer from Fenerbahce, but he decided to return to Malaga. At the same time Unicaja's Alejandro Abrines (198-F-93) will move to Regal Barcelona and it will be a 4-year deal.
Fran Vazquez played for Unicaja from 2001 to 2003 and latter in 2004/05 season, after what he left for Girona. In 2006, the player joined Barca where he stayed six years. Last season Vazquez had 6.2 ppg and 4.4 rpg in 45 Liga Endesa games. He also added 4.4 ppg and 3.2 rpg for 21 Euroleague games.
Young Alejandro Abrines played 18 games in Liga Endesa last season registering 4.8 ppg and 1.6 rpg. He also got a chance in 6 Euroleague games adding 2.5 ppg. Abrines played for LEB Gold team Clinicas Rincon, where he shined with 13.4 ppg and 2.9 rpg in 16 appearances. Last summer Abrines led U18 Spain to Gold medal at U18 EuroBasket in Poland. He had 13.1 ppg and 4.8 rpg for 9 games and was named Eurobasket.com All-European Championships U18 MVP -11.


Valencia signs 3-year deal with Pau Ribas - by Eurobasket News

Valencia announced signing of a 3-year deal with Pau Ribas (193-PG-87). It means that the Spanish point guard will play for the club until the end of 2014/15 season. Rivas arrives to Valencia after three years with Caja Laboral. He had 5.2 ppg, 2.5 rpg and 1.8 apg for 10 Euroleague games last season. In Liga Endesa, the player averaged 5.4 points, 2 rebounds and 1.8 assists.
Before Caja Laboral, Pau Ribas played for DKV Joventut Badalona. He shined with 10 ppg, 2.6 apg and 2.4 rpg for 35 ACB league games in their last season together. His numbers in Euroleague were little bit lower. In the past, Ribas played for CB Prat. He also was a member of Spanish youth National Teams. Pau Ribas led U20 Spain to Silver at U20 EuroBasket 2007 in Slovenia. He had 14.4 ppg, 3.5 apg and 2 rpg for 8 games at this event.


Andres Nocioni stays with Caja Laboral for 2012/13 - by Eurobasket News

Andres Nocioni (199-F-79) will stay with Caja Laboral for the next season. The player signed contract extension today. Nocioni returned to Caja Laboral in March. He played 12 games in Liga Endesa averaging 9.7 points and 3.5 rebounds. Nocioni started the season with Argentinean Penarol due to the NBA lockout. He joined Philadelphia 76er after that, but had very limited playing time in 10 games. In 2010/11 season, Nocioni averaged 6.1 points and 3.2 rebounds in 54 games with Philly. In the past, he played for Sacramento Kings and Chicago Bulls. Andres Nocioni played for Tau Ceramica (now Caja Laboral) from 1999 to 2004.
Earlier this summer, Cala Laboral stayed without Pablo Prigioni (191-G-77). Their superstar Mirza Teletovic (206-F-85, agency: Beo Basket) also left for the NBA. Nocioni was linked with few NBA teams these days (all rumors), but at the end he decided to stay with the former Spanish champs.


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SWEDEN

U20 European Championship: Sweden grab thrilling win over Estonia - by Eurobasket News

Sweden U20-Estonia U20 69:66

Sweden grab thrilling win over Estonia the Classification Round for 13th to 16th Place. The Scandinavian team overcame the Baltic state 69:66 at the U20 European Championship.
Estonia took 18:15 lead after the first period and added 16-11 in the second frame. They could not however win the game although posting the victory in the last quarter. Sweden needed massive 25-13 surge in the third period to seal the victory.
Jonathan Person (192-PG-93, agency: JEMsports) stepped up with 21 points and Marcus Eriksson (196-G/F-93) notched 18. Viktor Gaddefors (203-SF-92) posted 12, while Charles Barton (192-PG-92) chipped in with 8. Martin Paasoja (191-G-93) answered with 14 points and 10 rebounds, whilst Oliver Metsalu (196-G-93) added 12. Rait-Riivo Laane (179-PG-93), Jaan Puidet (192-G/F-92) and Rauno Nurger (207-C-93) each scored 10.
Sweden will play Georgia on Wednesday in Stozice Arena in Ljubljana, while Estonia will face Montenegro, who are also yet to open their victory count.

Sweden U20: Jonathan Person 21, Marcus Eriksson 18, Viktor Gaddefors 12, Charles Barton 8
Estonia U20: Martin Paasoja 14+10 rebs, Oliver Metsalu 12, Rait-Riivo Laane 10, Jaan Puidet 10 Rauno Nurger 10


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TAIWAN

Lin to become a Rocket as Knicks decide not to match - by Eurobasket News

The New York Knicks have given up the pretense of matching the three-year, $25 million offer sheet Jeremy Lin (6'3''-PG-88, college: Harvard) signed with the Rockets, meaning the NBA's first American-born player of Taiwanese or Chinese descent will play for Houston in his second stint with the club, according to The New York Times.

The Knicks had refused to confirm they received the Rockets' offer sheet Saturday, which started the countdown for a decision to match by 11:59 p.m. ET Tuesday.

But The Times, according to a person briefed on the decision, reported the deliberations were considered final Tuesday afternoon on not matching.

Lin, 23, will get about $5 million in each of his first two seasons, then balloon to a guaranteed $15 million in Year 3, an offer Houston made that almost certainly guaranteed the Knicks would have to pass on. Or, if they matched, the Knicks would have to pay through the pocket under the NBA's luxury tax system detailed in the new collective bargaining agreement.

Lin spent less than two weeks in the Rockets' training camp last season before being let go, not because Houston general manager Daryl Morey really wanted to do that. But it was a necessary move to waive him with Kyle Lowry and Goran Dragic on the roster. Lowry is now with the Toronto Raptors and Dragic with the Phoenix Suns.

The Rockets' misfortune became the Knicks' windfall, as Lin emerged out of nowhere to lead New York through a remarkable stretch of the season that directed them into the playoffs. With the Knicks floundering at 8-15 and injuries piling up, Lin got his chance -- and "Linsanity" was born.

The Knicks went on a seven-game winning streak, with Lin scoring increasing career highs: 25 against the then-New Jersey Nets, 28 against the Utah Jazz, up to 38 against the Los Angeles Lakers.

Lin exploded on Twitter and in media around the world, even causing the stock price to surge for Madison Square Garden Inc., the Knicks' parent company.

But the bloom came off when Carmelo Anthony returned from his injury absence, and the losing grew until coach Mike D'Antoni resigned. New coach Mike Woodson was not as big a proponent of Lin, and a knee injury in April effectively ended Lin's career with the Knicks.

Courtesy of www.usatoday.com


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TURKEY

Jamont Gordon pens deal with Galatasaray - by Eurobasket News

Jamont Gordon (193-G/F-87, college: Mississippi St.) pens deal with Galatasaray for the upcoming season. According to sportando.net the player signed a two-year, $2.8M deal with the Turkish team.
Over the last three years the American player stayed with CSKA. In 2010 the American guard arrived the Russian powerhouse from Cibona Zagreb. He appeared 15 times in Euroleague with the Croatian averaging 13.9 points, 4.9 rebounds and 3.8 assists. Gordon also had 19.5 ppg, 4.8 rpg, 4.8 apg and 1.9 spg for 21 games in Croatian championship, where Cibona defended the title. In Adriatic league, Gordon added 14.4 ppg, 4.1 rpg, 4.6 apg and 1.9 spg for 28 games. He was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Croatian A1 League Player of the Year and also Eurobasket.com All-Adriatic League Guard of the Year. Cibona was the regular season champion in Adriatic league, but failed in the Finals against Partizan Belgrade. In Euroleague, Eurobasket awarded Gordon with Honorable Mention.
Before Cibona Zagreb, Jamont Gordon was a member of GMAC Real Estate Bologna. He had 11.3 ppg and 4.7 rpg for 29 games in Serie A. He also had 11.3 ppg and 3.3 rpg for 6 EuroCup games. It was the first season for Gordon as a pro. He graduated at the Mississippi State University in 2008. In his senior season Gordon had 17.2 ppg, 6.6 rpg and 4.9 apg in 34 games.
In 2011-2012 for CSKA Moscow (Russia-PBL) he averaged 6.6ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 44.1%, 3PT: 31.0%, FT: 78.6% in VTB league and in Euroleague showed 6.7ppg, 1.9rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 50.7%, 3PT: 34.8%, FT: 77.3%. In Russian League his stats read 7.6ppg, 2.2rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 51.9%, 3PT: 27.8%, FT: 70.0%.


U20 European Championship: Slovenia survive thriller against Turkey - by Eurobasket News

Slovenia U20 - Turkey U20 72:71

Slovenia remained undefeated at U20 European Championship. The hosts knocked down Turkey for the fifth straight win tonight. Klemen Prepelic (194-G-92) came up with 29 points to lead the winners. Slovenia are now at 4-0 record, while Turkey slipped at 2-2 in Group F.
Turkey grabbed a 21:19 lead ten minutes into the game. Slovenia erased the distance and eked out a narrow 41:39 halftime lead. The teams stayed neck and neck throughout the third quarter. Calban capped the period with six points in a row to give the visitors a 60:56 lead. The lead grew at 8-point mark midway through the final quarter 66:58. However Gezim Morina (204-C/F-92) scored 6 points in an 8:2 run from Slovenia that cut the margin to two points. Klemen Prepelic and Alen Omic (215-C-92) put the hosts in front 70:69. Tekin gave the lead back to Turkey but Gezim Morina converted a layup to seal the victory for Slovenia. Gezim Morina accounted for 13 points, while Alen Omic posted 12 points and 9 rebounds in the victory. Berkay Candan (204-F-93) answered with 15 points for Turkey. Ayhan Onur Kentli (192-SG-92, agency: 1x1 Sports) had 9 points in the loss.

Slovenia U20: Klemen Prepelic 29, Gezim Morina 13, Alen Omic 12
Turkey U20: Berkay Candan 15, Ayhan Onur Kentli 9


Karsiyaka hires Ufuk Sarica as new Head Coach - by Eurobasket News

Ufuk Sarica is a new Head Coach of Karsiyaka. The 40-year-old coach worked last two seasons with Anadolu Efes. Sarica was their assistant coach from 2008 to 2010 and two years ago he got the promotion to HC position. They parted ways in February this year. Sarica also has coaching experience from Besiktas. He played for Karsiyaka ten years ago.


Jure Balazic moves to Erdemir - by Eurobasket News

Jure Balazic (204-F-80) agreed terms with Erdemir for the next season, according to Slovenian media (Kosarka.si). The player signed a deal today. Balazic played for Krka Novo Mesto from 2007 until this summer. Last season he had 9.6 ppg and 4.9 rpg for 12 games in EuroCup. The player averaged 9.9 points and 4.2 rebounds for 25 Adriatic league games, while in Slovenian championship he had slightly better numbers. Balazic helped Krka to win three titles in Slovenia (10, 11, 12). They also were EuroChallenge champions a year ago. Before Krka, Jure Balazic spent one year with Hungarian team Atomeromu. In 2005/06, he played half of the season with APOEL Nicosia and half with Krka, where he also played from 1997 to 2005. Balazic has experience from KK Zagreb as well.


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U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS

Kings Edge Lakers, 69-67; Boys Dem Rally by Dread Is, 75-66 - by David Edole

By Dave Davis July 16, 2012
The Kings and Boys Dem were Saturdays winners in the New Breed Basketball Association summer league action at the Ronald Charles Gymnasium on the Central High School campus. The Kings withstood a fourth quarter rally to edge the Lakers, 69-67, in an exciting contest that went down to the wire, and Boys Dem had to overcome an eight point halftime deficit to beat Dread Is, 75-66.

On a quiet night from star player Craig Williams, the Kings got a big game from Devante Pryce who finished with 16 points and 11 rebounds in the two-point victory over the Lakers. But it wasnt an easy victory.

Leading by nine points at 56-47 heading into the fourth quarter, the Kings just barely held off the Lakers closing rush, outscoring the Kings 20-13 in the period to come up just short.

Three other Kings reached double figures in points with Jermaine Mulley knocking down 13 and Nybo Rodgers and Markie Perinon finishing with 12 points apiece.

Boys Dem 75, Dread Is 66
Boys Dem have now established themselves as the team to beat in the NBBA after knocking off two of the leagues top three teams in their last two games. The Boys used a 30-17 third period to rally from an eight point halftime deficit to take a 53-48 lead at the end of three quarters.

They then went on to outscore Dread Is 22-18 in the fourth to wrap up the hard fought 75-66 victory.

Zomari Swanston led the winners with game highs in points, 20, and rebounds, 11. He was ably supported by Rasheed Swanston (196-F-95) with 13 points, Wilson Ferrance and Salim Ross (92) both with 12, and floor general Kadeem Jones (94) who finished with 10 points and six assists.

For Dread Is, Lloyd Gilbert had 16 points and nine rebounds and Timothy Sneed finished with 12 points.


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UKRAINE

U20 European Championship: France dominate Ukraine - by Eurobasket News

France U20 - Ukraine U20 75:62

France registered the second straight win at the Second Stage of U20 European Championship. They knocked down Ukrainian counterparts in Group E. France thus improved at 2-2 record, while Ukraine slipped at 0-4. Leo Westermann (198-G-92, agency: Beo Basket) accounted for 18 points and 5 assists to pace Les Bleus.
France got to a sloppy start. Ukraine capitalized building a 21:15 lead ten minutes into the game. But France gradually adjusted their offence. They unloaded 26 points in the second quarter to gain a 4-point halftime lead. France boosted the lead in the third quarter. They ensured a 64:51 lead at the final break. The teams exchanged baskets throughout the fourth frame as France coasted to the victory. Axel Toupane (200-G/F-92) posted 13 points, while Hugo Invernizzi (196-G/F-93) contributed 12 points for the winners. Artem Pustovyi (215-C-92, agency: Beo Basket) answered with 23 points for Ukraine. Vyacheslav Bobrov (202-F-92) netted 11 points and grabbed 11 rebounds in the loss.

France U20: Leo Westermann 18, Axel Toupane 13, Hugo Invernizzi 12
Ukraine U20: Artem Pustovyi 23, Vyacheslav Bobrov 11+11 boards


Aerosvit Cup-2012: Ukraine beat Romania in Yuzny - by Eurobasket News

Ukraine -Romania 83:58

Ukraine beat Romania in Yuzny at the start of the Aerosvit Cup-2012. The hosts of the tournament won all the quarters in the game for 83:58 victory.
Ukraine started with 19-15 and added 21-10 in the second frame. The hosts had 40:25 at the halftime and led 50:30 after 25 minutes of the game. Romanian reduced to 57:39 at the end of the third quarter but trailed 21 points with 5 minutes to go. Moreover Ukraine pushed the tempo for good at the end of the game to seal 25-point victory.
Kyryl Natyazhko (210-C-90, agency: Beo Basket, college: Arizona) stepped up with 16 points and 11 rebounds, while Maxym Korniyenko notched 14. Igor Zaytsev poured in 10 and Aleksandr Lipoviy added 9. Andrei Mandache (189-G-87, agency: Global Sports Plaza) replied with 15 points in the losing effort and Ionut Dragusin (221-C-85) scored 8. Mihail-Octavian Paul (191-G-82) delivered 7, while Dragos Andrei (186-G-87), Titus Nikoara and Vlad Moldoveanu (206-F/C-88, college: American) posted 6 each.

Ukraine: Kyryl Natyazhko 16+11 rebs, Maxym Korniyenko (205-F/C-87) 14, Igor Zaytsev (210-F/C-89) 10, Aleksandr Lipoviy 9
Romania: Andrei Mandache 15, Ionut Dragusin 8, Mihail-Octavian Paul 7, Dragos Andrei 6, Titus Nikoara 6, Vlad Moldoveanu 6


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UNITED KINGDOM

BBL Champions take centre stage on 2012-13 opening night - by Paul Nilsen

The reigning BBL Championship winners will have the honour of stepping out on the opening night of the brand new 2012-13 British Basketball League campaign along with this season's two newcomers.

The curtain will be raised on Friday 21st September with three games including champions Newcastle Eagles hosting arch rivals Glasgow Rocks at Sport Central in one of the most intense rivalries in the league.

On the same evening, debutantes Manchester Giants will welcome Prestige Homes Milton Keynes Lions while East London Royals will travel up to Yorkshire to make history with their first BBL minutes at One Health Sharks Sheffield.

Saturday 22nd September will see six more teams take to the floor for their first taste of 2012-13 action as Guildford Heat host Mersey Tigers, Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders entertain UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders and Worcester Wolves welcome Durham Wildcats.

The only fans who will have to wait that little bit longer to see their team play are supporters of Cheshire Jets who will be booking Sunday 23rd September as their first big date in the diary when Manchester Giants pitch up at Northgate Arena.

All BBL clubs will face each other three times during the regular season, playing either two games at home and once on the road or vice-versa.

With 13 clubs participating this season, five teams will be left disappointed by not making the all-important end of season play-offs.

Consequently the battle to finish in the top eight spots promises to be more ferocious and absorbing as ever with the added incentive of reaching next year's BBL Play-Off Final which is heading back to London.

Those teams who do punch their respective tickets for the play-off quarter-finals will play feature over the 12-14 April with the two-legged semi-finals scheduled for the weekend of 19-21 April.

The last two teams to survive the heat of another intense season will play it out for the last piece of silverware in the 2013 BBL Play Off Final at Wembley Arena on Sunday 28th April.




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URUGUAY

Results for the Metro league 16th round - by Hector Lopez

Results for the Metro league 16th round:
Romis Nelimar 81 - Devon Pearson (198-F-84, college: SMU) 31 points 20 rebounds 3 assists
Verdirrojo 63 - Kevin Nelson (192-G-84, college: Park) 16 points 4 rebounds
- - -
Yale 76 - Jerry Echenique (201-C-79, college: High Point) 23 points 11 rebounds
Capitol 74 - Santiago Moglia (196-F-89) 26 points 11 rebounds, Kevin Martin (208-C-83, college: Florida Gulf Coast) 17 points 10 rebounds
- - -
Cader 82 - Grady Reynolds (198-F-80, agency: Strategic Sports, college: St.John's) 25 points 7 rebounds
Marne 66 - Eric Freeman (205-C-79, agency: Gamble Sports Management, college: Ky Wesleyan) 12 points 8 rebounds
- - -
Larranaga 71 - Gordon James (198-F-79, college: Bridgeport) 14 points 10 rebounds
Urunday Universitario 57 - Howard Wilkerson (198-F-84, agency: Two Points, college: Wofford) 15 points 9 rebounds 3 assists


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VENEZUELA

Venezuelans Abroad - Luis Bethelmy will return to Mexico's LNBP - by Francisco Vega

Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Venezuelan PF Luis Bethelmy (200-F/C-86) will go back to Mexico's Liga Nacional de Baloncesto Profesional (LNBP) as an imported player for Halcones Rojos de Veracruz, after winning the championship in the 2011-2012 season, according to his agent, Carlos Sifuentes Brito. The 2012-2013 season will begin on September 4th.

Bethelmy, a 25 year-old talent from Guiria, Sucre, is a very tough guy to handle in the paint and had success last season for Halcones Rojos, averaging 14.2 points, 6.3 rebounds and 1.3 assists per game in 42 games. He later signed to play in Puerto Rico's BSN for Indios de Mayaguez, but could not play due to trouble related to his work visa.

He then chose to stay home and play for Cocodrilos de Caracas in Venezuela's LPB, finishing up with 9.9 points, 4.7 rebounds and 1.8 assists per game in 21 games. He was unable to play for Venezuela's Senior NT in their recent international events, due to pain in his lower back. Bethelmy will be joined by Puerto Ricans Carlos Rivera (187-PG-83) and Jeffrion Aubry (205-C-76) in Veracruz.


Centauros and Tiburones will be Venezuelan teams in Liga Suramericana - by Francisco Vega

Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Centauros de Apure and Tiburones de Vargas, champions and runner ups in Venezuela's Liga Nacional de Baloncesto (LNB) back in 2011, will be the country's representatives in the upcoming 17th edition of Liga Suramericana, set to be played from October 9th with 16 teams from Argentina, Brazil, Bolivia, Ecuador, Peru, Uruguay, Chile and Venezuela.

Centauros will travel to Ibarra, Ecuador for Group A action from October 9th till the 11th. They'll face Obras Sanitarias (Argentina), Pinheiros (Brazil) and Mavort (Ecuador). The team will be coached by Puerto Rican Carlos Mercado and its team will feature players such as Rafael Perez (193-G/F-82), Tulio Cobos (196-F-86) and Jesus Centeno (190-G-85).

Meanwhile, Tiburones will host Group D from October 30th till November 1st at Jose Maria Vargas Arena in La Guaira, Venezuela. They'll face Libertad de Sunchales (Argentina), Sao Jose (Brazil) and El Bosque (Peru). Puerto Rican Tony Ruiz will coach a team that includes Windi Graterol (204-C-86), Axiers Sucre (200-F-78), Rafael Guevara (194-F-79) and Alejandro Barrios (205-C-79).

Group B will be played in Brasilia, Brazil from October 16th till the 18th by Regatas Corrientes (Argentina), Club Amistad (Bolivia), Malvin (Uruguay) and Uniceub (Brazil) and Group C will be played in Mar del Plata, Argentina from October 23rd till the 25th, including Penarol de Mar del Plata (Argentina), Flamengo (Brazil), Hebraica Maccabi (Uruguay) and a team from Chile, still to be defined.

Obras Sanitarias (Argentina) won the 2011 edition, after defeating Pinheiros (Brazil), 88-73.

Carmelo Cortez, president of the Venezuelan Basketball Federation (FVB), also confirmed that Cocodrilos de Caracas will play in the next FIBA Americas League and Marinos de Anzoategui hasn't decided if they will attend the invitation or not. Those teams play in Liga Profesional (LPB), the country's main pro league.


Venezuelans Abroad - Guillent and Lugo ready to shine in Dominican Republic's LNB - by Francisco Vega

Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Venezuelans PG Heissler Guillent (186-PG-86) and SG Edgar Lugo (189-G-82), who belong to Guaros de Lara in Liga Profesional de Baloncesto (LPB), are ready to shine in the Dominican Republic's Liga Nacional (LNB), Guillent as imported player for Leones de Santo Domingo and Lugo as native player coming off the bench for Reales de La Vega.

"I'm very happy about playing for the first time in the league", said Guillent to Latinbasket.com from Santo Domingo. "From what I've been able to see in the past 12 days of preparation, this is a very physical league with a fast pace".

He has been a foreign reinforcement player in the past in Colombia and Mexico. "I hope this experience helps me to improve in my game and continue to grow as a player. We have a very good team. We have three players coming from the Dominican Republic's Senior National Team after the second game of the season. This team won the championship last season and I hope this year we can play the Finals again", said Guillent.

He'll be playing alongside another LPB player, American SF Delonte Holland (201-F-82), who played for Toros de Aragua. Guillent scored 19 points with 6 rebounds and 3 assist in his first game, a defeat against Titanes de Licey, 73-70.

Lugo is more used to playing in the league and hopes to help Reales get to the next level, after winning Division Norte in 2011. "We have great expectations", said Lugo. "We want to overcome what we did last year and get to the Finals. I hope I can help this team both offensively and defensively. The level of competition here is high and is increasing each year. We have imported players in the league such as Evan Brock (204-F-84), Andrew Feeley (206-F/C-83), Larry Ayuso (190-G-77), Terrence Shannon (203-F-79) and my little brother, Heissler Guillent".

He's optimistic about La Vega. "My team is looking good this season, we have improved our weaknesses with the arrival of Andrew Feeley and the presence of Juan Coronado, our franchise player and MVP last year".

He also wants to get better to help Guaros in 2013 back in Venezuela. "I'm working on my weaknesses because I know that next year, expectations will be high in Guaros de Lara. It's not just advancing to the playoffs but trying to win the championship".


Venezuelans Abroad - Michael Carrera selects NCAA destination, but hasn't made announcement - by Francisco Vega

Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Venezuelan SF-PF Michael Carrera (198-F-93), one of the best young talents of the country and recent graduate from Montrose Christian High School in Rockville, Maryland, wrote in his personal account on Twitter that has already made up his mind about which college to play for in the NCAA Division 1 for the 2012-2013 season, but will not make it public just yet.

Carrera was originally included in a 29-player list by the Venezuelan Basketball Federation to go and work for the Senior NT staff and try to earn a spot for the South American Championship in Argentina and the FIBA Olympic Qualy Tournament at El Poliedro in Caracas, Venezuela, but chose not to attend so he could focus on selecting the right college, alongside his family.

He was a huge part of the recent success of Montrose at the high school level, winning a national championship in the 2010-2011 season in the same place where fellow Venezuelan Greivis Vasquez (197-PG-87) started his career, as well as another NBA caliber player, Linas Kleiza (203-F-85).

Carrera will join a list of Venezuelans playing for Division 1 teams that include Gregory Echenique (210-C-90) of Creighton, Anthony Perez (203-F-93) of Ole Mississippi, Juan Coronado (198-F-90) of Liberty, Dennison Rodriguez (202-F-89) of Georgia State and possibly Kevin Portillo, the son of former Senior NT player Cesar Portillo (206-C-68), currently playing for La Salle High School in Miami, Florida. Danny Herrera (193-F-92), who played for Duquesne, will transfer to the NJCAA level playing for the Miami Dade Junior College Sharks.


Venezuelans Abroad (NBA) - Departure of Jack gives Vasquez a chance to start - by Francisco Vega

Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- The trade that sent Jarrett Jack (191-PG-83) from the New Orleans Hornets to the Golden State Warriors in a three-team transaction that also involved the Philadelphia Sixers, will give Venezuelan PG Greivis Vasquez (197-PG-87) a chance to become a starter in his third full NBA season and second with the team that's coached by Monty Williams.

Vasquez, 25 years old, recently played for Venezuela in the FIBA Olympic Qualy Tournament held at El Poliedro in Caracas, Venezuela. He averaged 24.0 points per game in clashes against Nigeria (W 71-69) and Lithuania (L 100-82).

The former Maryland star in the NCAA will share time with Austin Rivers (193-G-92) in the PG position and will have Jerome Dyson (191-G-87) as backup. Vasquez played 66 games in the 2011-2012 season, averaging 8.9 points, 5.4 assists and 2.6 rebounds per game and sharing time between the bench and the starting team because of Jack's constant injury problems. ivers was drafted from Duke.


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VTB UNITED LEAGUE

Neptunas keeps PG Evaldas Dainys and G Martynas Mazeika - by Eurobasket News

Point guard Evaldas Dainys (180-PG-82, college: Cent.Florida CC) and guard Martynas Mazeika (193-G-85, agency: Interperformances) will stay with Neptunas for the next season, according to Sportas.lt.
Evaldas Dainys joined the club last summer from Rudupis Prienu. He appeared 24 times in LKL averaging 8.6 points, 5.3 assists and 3.2 rebounds. He was top assistant of the league. In Baltic league the player added 6.2 ppg, 4.3 apg (No.3) and 2.4 rpg for 9 games.
Martynas Mazeika arrived to Neptunas two years ago from AEK Athens. Last season he shined with 15.2 ppg, 3.5 rpg and 1.8 apg for 26 LKL games. He was the second scorer of the competition and participated at the All-Star Game. Mazeika had slightly lower numbers in Baltic league. He already was a member of Neptunas from 2000 to 2004 and later in 2008/09 season.



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Women News

London 2012 Olympic: Nacessela remain confident - by Olusegun Ikuesan

African champions Angola accept they are among the underdogs heading into the London Games.

After all, it will be the first Olympic experience for the womens team and very hard games await them.

Over the weekend, the side got an idea of what the competition is going to be like at the Game on tournament in Sheffield, England, where they fell to Great Britain (74-57), France (79-51) and Australia (70-46).

Despite the losses, Angolas confidence has not wavered.

Four years ago none expected us to win a game, said Angolas Afrobasket 2011 MVP Nacissela Mauricio.

She was referring to the 2008 FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament for Women in Madrid.

Eventually we beat Argentina and many people were shocked, she said.

Angola won that game against Argentina, 59-58, but then lost its Quarter-Final.

Nevertheless, the experience in Madrid was a good one.

Angela Cardoso, Nacissela, Nadir Manuel, Sonia Guadalupe and Astrida Vicente were in the 2008 squad and are still in the present team.

We are a confident team, Nacissela said.

Surprises may happen again in London if we play as hard as we know how.

Mauricio does admit she and her teammates need to start playing better.

Angola shot a total of 28% from the floor in the three Sheffield games and also averaged 14 turnovers.

After this tournament, I must admit that we need to make some offensive adjustments, she said.

We lost all games in Sheffield because we were a bit inconsistent. We need to improve our shooting.

We cannot play at this level and have such a low shooting percentage. Often we defend well, but we dont capitalize on offense.

Against teams of high quality, we cannot afford such mistakes.

Against Australia, we closed the gap to 12 points, but because of some distractions they stretched the lead to 20 points.

These are aspects of our game we definitely must improve.

Angola are in Group-A of the Olympics along with the United States, China, Turkey, the Czech Republic and Croatia.

They start their Olympic campaign on 28 July against the Turks before taking on Olympic champions Team USA two days later.

Nothing to lose, everything to gain

There is no substitute for experience at the highest level of international basketball and this puts Angolas women at a distinct disadvantage.

Compared to our opponents at the Olympics, we lack international experience, Nacissela said.

But it is encouraging to play against the Team USA, as they are players that we only see on television. So, we have a chance to show them what we are capable of doing.

We have nothing to lose. Instead, we have much more to gain.

Taking on world-class opponents like Australia in the build-up should serve Angola well.

These (friendly) games help us reduce any pressure or fear, Nacissela said.

These games help us raise our self-esteem.

We just have to enjoy all these great moments.

We are living a dream. There is no reason not to be well.

Of course we are not used to this level of competition, but because we know each other so well, I think our spirit of togetherness will evolve when we need it the most.

In 2008, Raul Duarte was at the helm of Angola but now, its Anibal Moreira.

His success rate in big tournaments is excellent because last year in Mali, he steered the team to its first Afrobasket Women title.

Asked about the teams morale, Nacissela said: We are strong and ready to face the challenge.

It is a new reality that we are looking forward to. It wont be easy facing such good teams, but we will stand for Angola and Africa.

We are well aware that we are not just representing Angola, but we will carry the African flag to London. This is a heavy responsibility on our shoulders.

Chances do not come along like this for many players.

It may be Nacisselas only opportunity to go to an Olympics.

I am not sure how many more years I will play, she said.

The future belongs to God.

I will keep helping Angola to play as long as my fitness allows me to.

Nigeria's fans played an important role in their countrys successful qualification at the mens FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Caracas, Venezuela, earlier this month.

Nacissela says she and her teammates could use some backing, too.

We hope to have some support from the African community in London as its encouraging to know that there is someone outside supporting us, she said.

It is important to know that we are not alone.

FIBA.com


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BELARUS

Poland shines at U16 EuroBasket Division B in Tallinn - by Eurobasket News

U16 BELARUS - U16 POLAND 49-77

Another win for Poland at U16 EuroBasket Division B in Tallinn. This time they handed 77-49 loss to Belarus for perfect 3-0 record in the Qualifying Group F. Thanks to this win Poland already secured a ticket for the Quarterfinals. Belarus dropped to 0-3, but still has a chance to advance. Except of the first ten minutes, Poland totally controlled flow of the game. Quarters: 18-14, 9-24, 13-22, 9-17. Karolina Pobozy (188-F-96) led the winners with 24 points and 8 rebounds (valuation 26, MVP). Patrycja Klatt (171-G-96) was the second scorer with 10 pts and Amalia Rembiszewska (189-F-96) had 9. Belarus got 10 points from Anastasiya Sushchyk (160-PG-97). Yanina Inkina (183-PF-97) (5 rebs) and Darya Panasiuk (175-SF-96) posted 8 points each. In the next game, Poland will meet Latvia. Belarus and Luxembourg will play against each other.

Belarus: Anastasiya Sushchyk 10, Yanina Inkina 8+5 boards, Darya Panasiuk 8
Poland: Karolina Pobozy 24+8 boards, Patrycja Klatt 10, Amalia Rembiszewska 9


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BELGIUM

Belgian U18 National Team 2012 - by Eurobasket

Starting five
#s#	Adams	Ben Abdelkader	Bernard	Goyvaerts	Lemmens	#e#5

Heleen Adams

173-SF-94

Jeugd Gentson

Hind Ben Abdelkader

170-SF-95

Sint Katelijne

Harriet Bende

186-C-94

Mondeville II

Axelle Bernard

183-C-95

Point Chaud

Anneleen Da Baets

161-SG-95

Sint Katelijne

Antonia Delaere

176-F/G-94

Kangoeroes-B.

Jolien Goyvaerts

173-SF-94

Sint Katelijne

Manon Humblet

182-C/F-94

Belfius Namur

Camille Lebrun

174-SF-94

Belfius Namur

Celine Lemmens

180-PF-95

Blue Cats

Lea Lonay

178-PF-94

Point Chaud

Alycia Marteau

167-G-95

Ciney

Isabelle Medjo

181-C-95

Young Cats

An-Katrien Nauwelaers

186-F-95

Sint Katelijne

Louise Platteau

171-G-95

Jeugd Gentson

Justine Tabruyn

174-PG-95

Blegny

Jill Van Meerbeeck

176-SF-94

Belfius Namur

Daniel Goethals

Head Coach

Belfius Namur

Hamadi Ly

Assistant

U16 Belgium extends winning streak in Miskolc - by Eurobasket News

U16 BELGIUM - U16 GREECE 52-26

Belgium limited Greece to just 26 points for the game today. At the other side Belgium drained 52 for 4-0 record in Qualifying Group E of U16 EuroBasket in Miskolc. Belgium already secured a spot in the Quarterfinals. They will play against Russia tomorrow in crucial game for the first place in the group. Greece faced with another loss and now has 0-4 record. It is already clear that Greece will continue in Classification Round after this phase. Loes Breughe (175-G-96) scored 11 points for Belgium and Kyara Linskens (189-C-96) added 7 pts, plus 8 rebounds. Emma Uittenhove (167-PG-96) also had 7 points in this game. Greece got 6 points and 7 rebs from Kleanthi Oikonomaki (182-F-96). Vasiliki Karambatsa (183-F-96) was another player with 6 pts. Belgium dominated during the entire game having no troubles to register comfortable win. Quarters: 13-10, 14-6, 13-4, 12-6.

Belgium: Loes Breughe 11, Kyara Linskens 7+8 boards, Emma Uittenhove 7
Greece: Kleanthi Oikonomaki 6+7 boards, Vasiliki Karambatsa 6


U16 Belgium jumps to 3-0 in Group E in Miskolc - by Eurobasket News

U16 SLOVAKIA - U16 BELGIUM 47-59

Belgium jumped to 3-0 record in Group E of the Qualifying Round in Miskolc (U16 EuroBasket). They cruised past Slovakia 47-59 on Monday and already booked a spot for the Quarterfinals, despite there are two more rounds to go at this stage. Belgium shares first place in the group with Russia. At the other side, Slovakia dropped to 1-2, but still has a nice chance to advance. Julie Allemand (173-PG-96) (6 rebs), Eva Devliegher (170-SG-96) (5 rebs) and Laeticia Mpoyi (179-C-96) (5 rebs) led the winners with 10 points each. Slovakia got 12 points from Katarina Urbaniova (169-PG-96). Miroslava Mistinova (182-F-97) and Lucia Ondrejkova (170-G/F-96) (5 rebs) netted 8 and 6 points respectively. Belgium was up by 8 at the halftime and jumped to plus 13 with one quarter remaining. It was too much for Slovakia for rest of the way. Belgium will play against last ranked Greece in the next round. Slovakia will meet Sweden.

Slovakia: Katarina Urbaniova 12, Miroslava Mistinova 8, Lucia Ondrejkova 6+5 boards
Belgium: Julie Allemand 10+6 boards, Eva Devliegher 10+5 boards, Laeticia Mpoyi 10+5 boards


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BULGARIA

U16 Latvia hands 59-54 loss to U16 Bulgaria - by Eurobasket News

U16 LATVIA - U16 BULGARIA 59-54

Latvia was better than Bulgaria 59-54 in the first game of the Qualifying Round in Tallinn (U16 EuroBasket Division B). Both teams had 1-1 record before this meeting. Now, Latvia is third ranked team, while Bulgaria dropped to 1-2. Kitija Laksa (180-G-96) paced the winning squad with 24 points and 8 rebounds for 36 minutes on the court. Paula Strautmane (182-F-97) had 9 points and also 8 rebs, while Kitija Stolce (184-F-96) added 6 points and 5 rebs. Bulgaria got 23 points (5 rebs) from Iva Georgieva (172-F-96), and 17 pts (6 rebs) from Borislava Hristova (180-F-96). Latvia was up by one (51-50) with 6:45 remaining in the game. They managed to close this meeting with 8-3 and to take very valuable win. Quarters: 18-17, 10-7, 19-16, 12-14. Latvia will play against Poland in the next round. Bulgaria will take on Slovenia.

Latvia: Kitija Laksa 24+8 boards, Paula Strautmane 9+8 boards, Kitija Stolce 6+5 boards
Bulgaria: Iva Georgieva 23+5 boards, Borislava Hristova 17+6 boards


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CANADA

SV Halle Lions keep Canadian Tamara Tatham - by Eurobasket News

SV Halle Lions keep Canadian Tamara Tatham (185-F-85, college: Massachusetts) for the next season. The second top-scorer of the League will enter her fourth season with the team.
In 2005-2006 she played for Massachusetts (NCAA) and averaged 10.0ppg, 6.9rpg, 2.0apg, 1.4spg, FG: 45.7%. In 2007-2008 moved to Catz Lappeenranta (Finland-D1, starting five) and averaged 14.1ppg, 7.6rpg, 1.7apg, 2.5spg, FGP: 49.1%, 3PT: 27.6%, FT: 76.2%.
In 2008-2009 Tamara Tatham played her first season for SV Halle Lions (Germany-DBBL, starting five)and had massive 20.0ppg, 9.8rpg, 1.6apg, 2.9spg, 2FGP: 60.0%, FT: 67.0%. In 2009 SV Halle Lions however have confirmed that their topscorer Tamara Tatham headed to TSV Wasserburg. In 2009-2010 for TSV 1880 Wasserburg (Germany-DBBL, starting five) she showed 13.0ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.1apg, 2.0spg, FGP-1 (59.1%), FT: 73.2%.
In Dec.'10 signed back at SV Halle Lions (Germany-DBBL, starting five) and became the fifth top-scorer in the League with 16.5ppg, Reb-2 (8.2rpg), 2.5apg, Steals-4 (2.4spg), FGP: 55.2%, FT: 70.5%.
Last season for SV Halle Lions (Germany-DBBL, starting five) sh had high 21.0ppg, Reb-2 (10.5rpg), 2.8apg, Steals-1 (3.2spg), FGP-1 (60.2%), FT: 74.4%.


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CROATIA

U16 Spain outplays U16 Croatia 65-50 in Miskolc - by Eurobasket News

U16 SPAIN - U16 CROATIA 65-50

Spain was too strong for Croatia today in Miskolc 65-50. Croatia made 9-13 in the first ten minutes of the game, but it was all from them. Spain took control on its rival for rest of the way to celebrate comfortable win (9-13, 18-8, 19-17, 19-12). Spain now has 3-1 record in the Qualifying Group F and already booked a ticket for the Quarterfinals. They will even fight for the first place in this pool. Croatia has 0-4 now and with no chance to advance. Elena Capella (171-G-96) scored 19 points in victory and Angela Salvadores (175-PG-97) added 15 points, plus 5 rebs. Helena Orts (184-F-96) posted 10 pts and 9 boards. In Croatia, Iva Slonjsak (181-SG-97) was way better than the others with 23 points and 7 rebounds. Their second scorer was Ivana Dojkic (176-SG-97) with 10 pts (6 rebs). Tomorrow, Spain will meet Czech Republic and Croatia will play against Holland.

Spain: Elena Capella 19, Angela Salvadores 15+5 boards, Helena Orts 10+9 boards
Croatia: Iva Slonjsak 23+7 boards, Ivana Dojkic 10+6 boards


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CZECH REPUBLIC

U16 Italy too strong for U16 Czech Republic, 72-49 - by Eurobasket News

U16 CZECH REPUBLIC - U16 ITALY 49-72

Both teams had 2-1 record before this meeting. Italy celebrated 72-49 victory and improved its score to 3-1 in Qualifying Group F. At the same time, Czech Republic slipped to 2-2. Both teams already booked a ticket for the Quarterfinals in Miskolc. Cecilia Zandalasini (182-F-96) shined for the winners with 18 points and 9 rebounds. Alessia Cabrini (177-SF-96) had 11 pts and 5 boards, and Marzia Tagliamento (179-F-96) posted 10 pts in victory. Sarah Berankova (176-PG-96) responded with 14 points in defeat. Their second scorer was Katerina Pracharova (177-SF-96) with 10 pts. Second quarter was the crucial one in this game as Italy stopped Czech Republic to just 2 points, while they scored 25. Quarters: 17-19, 2-25, 18-11, 12-17. Tomorrow, Italy will meet France. Czech Republic's rival will be Spain.

Czech Republic: Sarah Berankova 14, Katerina Pracharova 10
Italy: Cecilia Zandalasini 18+9 boards, Alessia Cabrini 11+5 boards, Marzia Tagliamento 10


Czech Republic beat Russia twice in Jindrichuv Hradec - by Eurobasket News

Czech Republic beat Russia twice in Jindrichuv Hradec to sweep the series. The hosts won both games before the London Olympics.
In Game 1 Czech Republic outscored Russia 73:63. The hosts started with 18-10 and led 8-points at the halftime. Russian was stronger in the third quarter 18-17, while the Czechs replied with 22-19 in the last. Eva Viteckova (190-F-82) poured in 21 points for the winners and Tereza Peckova (189-F-87) had 10. Elena Danilochkina (186-G-86) ended up with 15 points in defeat and Anna Petrakova scored 14.
In Game 2 Czech Republic needed a strong third period to seal a 57:48 victory. Russia started with 16-12 lead and led 4 points after two quarters. In the third period the hosts erupted with 20-7 surge and later both teams nailed 14 points each in the last stanza. Eva Viteckova paced all the winners with 20 points, while Ilona Burgrova (196-C-84, college: S.Carolina) added 8 and Elhotova scored 7. Natalia Vieru (197-C-89) and Nadezhda Grishaeva (195-PF-89) finished the game with 9 points each in the losing effort.


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DENMARK

U16 Finland keeps winning in Tallinn - by Eurobasket News

U16 DENMARK - U16 FINLAND 33-77

Finland jumped to 3-0 record in Group E of U16 EuroBasket Division B in Tallinn. They trashed Denmark on Monday 77-33 and already secured a spot for the Quarterfinals. Denmark dropped to 0-3 after this loss. However, they sill have a chance to reach the next stage. Tuuli Menna (183-F-96) led the winners with 19 points and 6 rebounds. Ninni Salmi (182-F-96) had 15 points and 6 boards, and Lotta Erakangas (183-F-97) netted 13 points. In defeat, Enna Pehadzic (176-G/F-97) (9 rebs), Sarah Mortensen (182-F-97) (8 rebs) and Emmelie Berg (176-F-96) netted 6 points each. Finland dominated in all basketball elements in this game. Quarters: 4-14, 8-23, 4-25, 17-15. On Tuesday, Finland will play against Israel. Denmark will meet Ukraine.

Denmark: Enna Pehadzic 6+9 boards, Sarah Mortensen 6+8 boards, Emmelie Berg 6
Finland: Tuuli Menna 19+6 boards, Ninni Salmi 15+6 boards, Lotta Erakangas 13


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EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U16

W-Standings - Div.A Standings Group E 1. Russia 4-0 2. Belgium 4-0 3. Hungary 2-2 4. Slovakia 2-2 5. Sweden 0-4 6. Greece 0-4 Group F 1. Spain 3-1 2. France 3-1 3. Italy 3-1 4. Czech Rep. 2-2 5. Holland 1-3 6. Croatia 0-4 Group G (positions 13-16) 1. Turkey 2-0 2. Germany 1-1 3. Serbia 1-1 4. U.Kingdom 0-2 Qualifying Round: Round 5 E Jul. 17: SVK - SWE 54-46 Jul. 17: HUN - RUS 53-61 Jul. 17: BEL - GRE 52-26 F Jul. 17: FRA - NED 70-44 Jul. 17: ESP - CRO 65-50 Jul. 17: CZE - ITA 49-72 G Jul. 17: ENG - TUR 59-66 Jul. 17: GER - SRB 59-54 Qualifying Round: Round 6 E Jul. 18: GRE - SWE Jul. 18: RUS - BEL Jul. 18: HUN - SVK F Jul. 18: CZE - ESP Jul. 18: NED - CRO Jul. 18: ITA - FRA G Jul. 18: TUR - SRB Jul. 18: ENG - GER

Stats Leaders W - Group A PPG RPG APG SPG BPG Points Per Game  Ivana DOJKIC   (176-SG-97)   Avg: 19.8  1. Dojkic, CRO 19.8   2. Crvendakic, SRB 18.8   3. Stach, GER 18.0   4. Kolosovskaya, RUS 17.4   5. Dobos, HUN 14.8   6. Onar, TUR 14.6   7. Andelova, CZE 14.2   8. Slonjsak, CRO 14.0   9. Hof, NED 13.7   10. Salvadores, ESP 13.2  Rebounds Per Game  Emese HOF   (188-C-96)   Avg: 11.7  1. Hof, NED 11.7   2. Remenarova, SVK 8.8   3. Ndiba, NED 8.8   4. Tivenius, SWE 8.6   5. Crvendakic, SRB 8.6   6. Linskens, BEL 8.4   7. Brossmann, GER 8.4   8. Dobos, HUN 8.0   9. Hrnjez, SWE 7.8   10. Oikonomaki, GRE 7.8  Assists Per Game  Ksenia LEVCHENKO   (165-PG-96)   Avg: 4  1. Levchenko, RUS 4.0   2. Onar, TUR 4.0   3. Flores, ESP 3.6   4. Cukic, SRB 3.4   5. Remenarova, SVK 3.4   6. Allemand, BEL 3.2   7. Horvath, HUN 3.0   8. Vom Hofe, GER 2.6   9. Andelova, CZE 2.6   10. Limousin, FRA 2.4  Steals Per Game  Martina KACERIK   (179-F-96)   Avg: 3.3  1. Kacerik, ITA 3.3   2. Kuijt, NED 3.0   3. Dojkic, CRO 2.8   4. Cukic, SRB 2.8   5. Flores, ESP 2.8   6. Cabrini, ITA 2.7   7. Ondrejkova, SVK 2.6   8. Borovykh, RUS 2.6   9. Limousin, FRA 2.6   10. Andelova, CZE 2.6  Blocks Per Game  Serena-Lynn GELDOF   (192-C-97)   Avg: 2.4  1. Geldof, BEL 2.4   2. Linskens, BEL 2.2   3. Bura, CRO 1.8   4. Mainclova, CZE 1.8   5. Ba, FRA 1.5   6. Sema, RUS 1.4   7. Crvendakic, SRB 1.4   8. Karambatsa, GRE 1.4   9. Oikonomaki, GRE 1.4   10. Kelava, CRO 1.3

Standings - Div.B - by Charles Ramsdell Standings Div.B Group E 1. Finland 4-0 2. Portugal 3-1 3. Ukraine 2-2 4. Lithuania 2-2 5. Israel 1-3 6. Denmark 0-4 Group F 1. Poland 4-0 2. Slovenia 3-1 3. Bulgaria 2-2 4. Latvia 2-2 5. Luxembourg. 1-3 6. Belarus 0-4 Group G (positions 13-15) 1. Estonia 1-0 2. Romania 1-1 3. Norway 0-1 Qualifying Round: Round 5 E Jul. 17: FIN - ISR 85-39 Jul. 17: DEN - UKR 53-70 Jul. 17: POR - LTU 46-44 F Jul. 17: BLR - LUX 69-85 Jul. 17: POL - LAT 64-60 Jul. 17: BUL - SLO 56-52 G Jul. 17: ROM - NOR 85-33

Div B. - by Greg PPG RPG APG SPG BPG Points Per Game  Borislava HRISTOVA   (180-F-96)   Avg: 22.7  1. Hristova, BUL 22.7   2. Laksa, LAT 18.8   3. Gorobets, UKR 18.0   4. Menna, FIN 17.4   5. Dineva, BUL 15.8   6. Costa, POR 15.8   7. Belickaite, LTU 15.3   8. Pobozy, POL 15.2   9. Juskaite, LTU 15.0   10. Georgieva, BUL 15.0  Rebounds Per Game  Paula LENART   (178-F/G-96)   Avg: 13  1. Lenart, ROM 13.0   2. Juskaite, LTU 12.0   3. Pehadzic, DEN 11.8   4. Mortensen, DEN 11.3   5. Jablonowski, LUX 11.0   6. Kostourkova, POR 10.6   7. Eneva, BUL 10.3   8. Pobozy, POL 9.8   9. Menna, FIN 9.6   10. Dineva, BUL 9.5  Assists Per Game  Dalia BELICKAITE   (175-F-96)   Avg: 3.7  1. Belickaite, LTU 3.7   2. Jelenc, SLO 2.8   3. Cuzic, ROM 2.8   4. Costa, POR 2.6   5. Hatunsek, SLO 2.5   6. Ajkic, SLO 2.5   7. Helle, FIN 2.4   8. Maxim, ROM 2.4   9. Cerneckyte, LTU 2.3   10. Strautmane, LAT 2.2  Steals Per Game  Noa ZELIVANSKI   (171-PG-96)   Avg: 4.3  1. Zelivanski, ISR 4.3   2. Belickaite, LTU 4.0   3. Reissar, EST 3.8   4. Hatunsek, SLO 3.5   5. Sushchyk, BLR 3.4   6. Georgieva, BUL 3.3   7. Sasebes, ROM 3.2   8. Klatt, POL 3.2   9. Panasiuk, BLR 3.2   10. Pauly, LUX 3.0  Blocks Per Game  Daugile SARAUSKAITE   (196-C-96)   Avg: 2.8  1. Sarauskaite, LTU 2.8   2. Strautmane, LAT 1.6   3. Kostourkova, POR 1.6   4. Eneva, BUL 1.5   5. Gwarda, POL 1.2   6. Jablonowski, LUX 1.0   7. Rembiszewska, POL 1.0   8. Ossowska, POL 0.8   9. Uiga, EST 0.8   10. Lesek, SLO 0.8

Division B: First games of the Qualifying Round in Tallinn - by Eurobasket News

Group E

Ukraine - Lithuania 65-58
Ukraine did a great job against Lithuania in the first game of the Qualifying Round in Tallinn (U16 EuroBasket Division B). They celebrated 65-58 victory for 1-2 record in Group E making the big step towards Quarterfinals. Lithuania slipped to 2-1 after this loss and now shares the second place with Portugal. Vita Gorobets (180-SG-96) stepped up for the winners with 22 points and 9 rebounds. Iryna Zhmurko (184-F-96) secured a nice help with 11 points and 10 rebounds, while Anastasiya Polovynka (176-G-96) added 9 points and 10 boards. In defeat, Agne Cerneckyte (171-SG-96) collected 22 points and 5 rebs. Laura Juskaite (187-PF-97) had 11 pts and 12 boards, while Daugile Sarauskaite (196-C-96) added 10 points and 8 rebs. Lithuania had 56-57 lead with 4:33 minutes remaining, but than Ukraine made impressive 9-1 run to close this game. Quarters: 21-20, 13-9, 16-15, 15-14. On Tuesday, Ukraine will play against winless Denmark. Lithuanias rival will be Portugal.

Israel - Portugal 42-55
Both teams transferred 1 win and 1 defeat to Group E of the Qualifying Round in Tallinn (U16 EuroBasket Division B). Portugal celebrated 55-42 win on Monday improving its score to 2-1 and now shares the second place with Lithuania. Israel dropped to position No.4, but that would be still enough for the Quarterfinals and the end of this phase. Maria Kostourkova (188-C-97) was a key player in Portugal with double-double of 21 points and 15 rebounds. She reached valuation 26 and was the MVP of this game. Simone Costa (176-G-96) had 14 pts and 5 assists, while Francisca Meinedo (165-PG-96) added 8 points. In defeat, Noa Zelivanski (171-PG-96) was the top-scorer with 9 points. Eden Porat (176-F-96) (8 rebs) and Ofir Banet (165-PG-96) delivered 8 points each. Quarters: 12-14, 11-17, 8-13, 11-11. On Tuesday, Portugal will fight against Lithuania. Israel will meet top-ranked Finland.

Denmark - Finland 33-77
Finland jumped to 3-0 record in Group E of U16 EuroBasket Division B in Tallinn. They trashed Denmark on Monday 77-33 and already secured a spot for the Quarterfinals. Denmark dropped to 0-3 after this loss. However, they sill have a chance to reach the next stage. Tuuli Menna (183-F-96) led the winners with 19 points and 6 rebounds. Ninni Salmi (182-F-96) had 15 points and 6 boards, and Lotta Erakangas (183-F-97) netted 13 points. In defeat, Enna Pehadzic (176-G/F-97) (9 rebs), Sarah Mortensen (182-F-97) (8 rebs) and Emmelie Berg (176-F-96) netted 6 points each. Finland dominated in all basketball elements in this game. Quarters: 4-14, 8-23, 4-25, 17-15. On Tuesday, Finland will play against Israel. Denmark will meet Ukraine.

Group F

Luxembourg - Slovenia 43-66
Slovenia had another great game in Tallinn at U16 EuroBasket Division B. Slovenia celebrated 66-43 win against Luxembourg for 3-0 record in Group F of the Qualifying Round. It is already enough for the Quarterfinals, despite there are two more days in this phase. Luxembourg dropped to 0-3 and they are in difficult situation now. Slovenia had impressive second quarter to secure the victory in this meeting (9-8, 7-25, 13-19, 14-14). Sabina Ajkic (176-SG-96) and Larisa Ocvirk (184-F-97) (8 rebs) scored 13 and 12 pts respectively for the winners. Maja Jakobcic (184-PF-97) had 11 points and 6 rebs. In defeat, Lisa Jablonowski (186-C-97) collected 9 points and 8 rebs. Their second scorer was Jessy Goergen (173-PG-97) with 7 pts and Cathrin Wolff (179-C-96) added 6 pts, plus 12 boards. On Tuesday, Slovenia will play against Bulgaria. Luxembourg will meet also winless Belarus in crucial game. The winner will keep its Quarterfinals hopes alive.

Latvia - Bulgaria 59-54
Latvia was better than Bulgaria 59-54 in the first game of the Qualifying Round in Tallinn (U16 EuroBasket Division B). Both teams had 1-1 record before this meeting. Now, Latvia is third ranked team, while Bulgaria dropped to 1-2. Kitija Laksa (180-G-96) paced the winning squad with 24 points and 8 rebounds for 36 minutes on the court. Paula Strautmane (182-F-97) had 9 points and also 8 rebs, while Kitija Stolce (184-F-96) added 6 points and 5 rebs. Bulgaria got 23 points (5 rebs) from Iva Georgieva (172-F-96), and 17 pts (6 rebs) from Borislava Hristova (180-F-96). Latvia was up by one (51-50) with 6:45 remaining in the game. They managed to close this meeting with 8-3 and to take very valuable win. Quarters: 18-17, 10-7, 19-16, 12-14. Latvia will play against Poland in the next round. Bulgaria will take on Slovenia.

Belarus - Poland 49-77
Another win for Poland at U16 EuroBasket Division B in Tallinn. This time they handed 77-49 loss to Belarus for perfect 3-0 record in the Qualifying Group F. Thanks to this win Poland already secured a ticket for the Quarterfinals. Belarus dropped to 0-3, but still has a chance to advance. Except of the first ten minutes, Poland totally controlled flow of the game. Quarters: 18-14, 9-24, 13-22, 9-17. Karolina Pobozy (188-F-96) led the winners with 24 points and 8 rebounds (valuation 26, MVP). Patrycja Klatt (171-G-96) was the second scorer with 10 pts and Amalia Rembiszewska (189-F-96) had 9. Belarus got 10 points from Anastasiya Sushchyk (160-PG-97). Yanina Inkina (183-PF-97) (5 rebs) and Darya Panasiuk (175-SF-96) posted 8 points each. In the next game, Poland will meet Latvia. Belarus and Luxembourg will play against each other.

Group G

Estonia - Romania 60-55
Estonia registered first win at U16 EuroBasket Division B in Tallinn. They outplayed Romania today 60-55 for 1-0 record in Group G. Teams in this pool fight for position No.13. Estonia grabbed this victory thanks to impressive third quarter of the game. Romania was up by 8 at the halftime, but Estonia smashed them after the breather (24-10) and later had no troubles to keep the lead. Kadri-Ann Lass (177-F-96) stepped up for the winners with 18 points and 8 rebounds. Marie Roosalu (177-F-96) had 13 points and 6 rebs, and Laura Reissar (171-PG-97) added 10 points, plus 8 boards. Romania got monster double-double from Paula Lenart (178-F/G-96). She had 17 points and 21 rebounds, reaching valuation 34. Teodora Neagu (181-C-96) scored 12 points and Vasilica Cuzic (171-G-96) had 7 points and 7 rebs. Estonia will have a day off tomorrow. Romania will play against Norway.


Division A: First games of the Qualifying Round in Miskolc - by Eurobasket News

Group E

Slovakia - Belgium 47-59
Belgium jumped to 3-0 record in Group E of the Qualifying Round in Miskolc (U16 EuroBasket). They cruised past Slovakia 59-47 on Monday and already booked a spot for the Quarterfinals, despite there are two more rounds to go at this stage. Belgium shares first place in the group with Russia. At the other side, Slovakia dropped to 1-2, but still has a nice chance to advance. Julie Allemand (173-PG-96) (6 rebs), Eva Devliegher (170-SG-96) (5 rebs) and Laeticia Mpoyi (179-C-96) (5 rebs) led the winners with 10 points each. Slovakia got 12 points from Katarina Urbaniova (169-PG-96). Miroslava Mistinova (182-F-97) and Lucia Ondrejkova (170-G/F-96) (5 rebs) netted 8 and 6 points respectively. Belgium was up by 8 at the halftime and jumped to plus 13 with one quarter remaining. It was too much for Slovakia for rest of the way. Belgium will play against last ranked Greece in the next round. Slovakia will meet Sweden.

Sweden - Russia 37-61
Russia already booked a ticket for the Quarterfinals of U16 EuroBasket in Miskolc. It was only the first round of the Qualifying Round, but Russia outplayed Sweden 61-37 and jumped to 3-0 in Group E, what is already enough for the next stage. Sweden dropped to 0-3 in this pool. Russia made 8-point lead in the first quarter and limited its rival to 6 pts in Q2, while scoring 21 at the other side. It means that Russia had plus 20 at the halftime and all after that was just the formality. Daria Kolosovskaya (181-SF-96) was their top-scorer with 14 points. Zhosselina Maiga (193-C-96) had 10 points and 6 rebounds, and Elizaveta Bratchikova (189-PF-96) added 8 pts and 10 boards. Andjela Hrnjez (185-C-96) answered with 8 points and 7 rebounds in loss, but with poor shot percentage for 2 and 3 pts. Elin Ljunggren (182-F-96) and Kajsa Carlsson (179-F-96) posted 6 pts apiece. In the next round, Russia will play against Hungary. Sweden's rival will be Slovakia.

Greece - Hungary 42-74
Hungary did a great job against Greece on Monday. Hungary blasted its rival 74-42 for 2-1 record in the Qualifying Group E of U16 EuroBasket in Miskolc. That is currently enough for third place and Hungary is already with one leg in the Quarterfinals. Agnes Dobos (190-C-96) shined for the winners with 15 and 7 rebounds, and Bernadett Horvath (168-PG-96) also added 15 pts to this victory. Debora Dubei (180-SF-97) followed them with 13 points and 5 boards. In Greece, Pinelopi Pavlopoulou (170-PG-96) was better than the others with 12 points. Eleanna Christinaki (181-G-96) (5 rebs) and Evgenia Kollatou (172-PG-98) had 6 pts each. Hungary exploded in the first quarter making 31-8 lead. Greece simply was not able to reply and faced with huge loss at the end. On Tuesday, Greece will meet Belgium, while Hungary will take on Russia.

Group F

Spain - France 55-49
Spain was better than France on Monday 55-49 handing them first loss at U16 EuroBasket in Miskolc. After this victory, Spain joined France with 2-1 record in Qualifying Group F. Czech Republic and Italy have the same numbers in this pool. Spain opened the game better making plus 5 in the first ten minutes, but France intensified defense and stopped Spain to just 4 pts for the entire Q2. They drained 17 at the other side for plus 8 at the halftime, but Spain replied with 17-11 after the breather. Angela Salvadores (175-PG-97) and her teammates continued in the same rhythm after that creating 17-9 in the last ten minutes of the game, what was enough for very valuable 55-49 victory. Salvadores led Spain in scoring with 19 points. Laura Quevedo (193-F-96) had 11 points and 5 boards, while Nogaye Lo Sylla (96) added 8 points and 8 rebs. In France, Lisa Berkani (173-SG-97) and Alix Duchet (165-PG-97) scored 15 and 12 points respectively. Marie Milapie (191-C-96) followed with 7 pts and 6 rebs. On Tuesday, Spain will play against Croatia, while France will meet Holland.

Holland - Czech Republic 52-68
Czech Republic started Qualifying Round in Miskolc with victory. They handed 68-52 loss to Holland for 2-1 record in Group F of U16 EuroBasket. At the other side, Holland dropped to 1-2. Holland was able to resist only in the first ten minutes of the game and all after that belonged to Czech Republic. They were up by 6 at the halftime and jumped to plus 11 with ten minutes remaining in the game. They won last quarter as well (10-15) for 52-68 final score. Gabriela Andelova (191-PG-96) had 16 points and Tereza Kracikova (187-C-96) added 11 pts and 10 rebounds in this victory. Eva Mouckova (160-SG-96) collected 8 points and 5 boards, while shooting 4/4 from the field. She was MVP of this meeting with valuation 17. In Holland, Esther Fokke (180-PF-96) and Fleur Kuijt (174-G-96) posted 11 and 10 points respectively. Janis Ndiba (185-PF-97) had 9 points and 5 boards. Tomorrow, Czech Republic will play against Italy. Holland will take on France. Four of six teams from Group F will advance to the Quarterfinals.

Croatia - Italy 46-61
Box-score and game report will be available soon. Croatia 0-3, Italy 2-1.

Group G

Serbia - United Kingdom 71-39
Serbia had no mercy for United Kingdom 71-39 in the first game of U16 EuroBasket - Group G. Teams in this pool fight for the survival in Division A. Serbia took control on its rival from the beginning and never looked back. Quarters: 22-9, 24-10, 14-10, 11-10. Snezana Bogicevic (176-PG-97) led Serbia in scoring with 13 points. Aleksandra Crvendakic (188-F/C-96) had double-double of 11 points and 11 rebounds, and Zeljka Petkovic (188-C-96) helped with 9 pts. In UK, Shanice Norton (170-SG-97) answered with 14 points and 9 rebounds. Evelyn Adebayo (185-PF-96) (6 rebs) and Leah McDerment (180-PG-96) stopped to 6 pts each. In the next round, Serbia will meet Germany. UK will play against Turkey.

Turkey - Germany 59-56
Turkey made a first step toward survival in Division A of U16 EuroBasket. They handed 59-56 loss to Germany for 1-0 record in Group G. There are five more rounds to be played in this pool. Selale Kepenc (186-SF-98) led the winners with 14 points and 13 rebounds. Serife Onar (167-PG-96) scored 10 points and Melis Gulcan (180-G-96) added 9 pts, plus 11 rebs. Emma lina Stach (175-PG-96) had 20 points and 7 rebounds in defeat. Patricia Brossmann (180-SF-97) added 12 points and 11 rebounds, while Nele Aha (171-PG-96) and Jennifer Crowder (164-G-96) posted 8 pts each. Teams were tied at 55-55 with 45 seconds remaining in the game. Kepenc made a lay-up for Turkey and Stach missed a jump shot at the other side. Gulcan missed two free throws for Turkey and Brossmann split them for Germany. Gulcan and Crowder exchanged turnovers and Kepenc closed this game with two free throws for 59-56 Turkey win.


Division A: Second games of the Qualifying Round in Miskolc - by Eurobasket News

Group E

Hungary - Russia 53-61
Russia had another joyful day in Miskolc. This time Russia was too strong for Hungary 61-53 for 4-0 record in Qualifying Group E (U16 EuroBasket). Russia already booked a spot for the Quarterfinals and will fight against Belgium tomorrow for the first place in this pool. At the other side, Hungary dropped to 2-2, but they will also reach the next stage. Tomorrow, Hungary will meet Slovakia in the battle for third place. Elizaveta Bratchikova (189-PF-96) shined for Russia with 23 points and 10 rebounds. Daria Kolosovskaya (181-SF-96) had 15 points and 6 rebs, while Ksenia Levchenko (165-PG-96) helped her team with 10 points, 6 assists and 5 rebs. Hungary got 17 points and 11 boards from Agnes Dobos (190-C-96), and Bernadett Horvath (168-PG-96) posted 11 pts. Debora Dubei (180-SF-97) stopped to 10 pts. Quarters: 16-16, 12-18, 12-16, 13-11. Russia was 10-points up at the middle of Q4 and had no troubles to keep it for rest of the way.

Belgium - Greece 52-26
Belgium limited Greece to just 26 points for the game today. At the other side Belgium drained 52 for 4-0 record in Qualifying Group E of U16 EuroBasket in Miskolc. Belgium already secured a spot in the Quarterfinals. They will play against Russia tomorrow in crucial game for the first place in the group. Greece faced with another loss and now has 0-4 record. It is already clear that Greece will continue in Classification Round after this phase. Loes Breughe (175-G-96) scored 11 points for Belgium and Kyara Linskens (189-C-96) added 7 pts, plus 8 rebounds. Emma Uittenhove (167-PG-96) also had 7 points in this game. Greece got 6 points and 7 rebs from Kleanthi Oikonomaki (182-F-96). Vasiliki Karambatsa (183-F-96) was another player with 6 pts. Belgium dominated during the entire game having no troubles to register comfortable win. Quarters: 13-10, 14-6, 13-4, 12-6.

Slovakia - Sweden 54-46
Slovakia handed 54-46 loss to Sweden today. Thanks to this victory Slovakia jumped to 2-2 record in Qualifying Group E and already booked a spot for the Quarterfinals (U16 EuroBasket. They currently share third place in this pool with Hungary. At the other side, Sweden dropped to 0-4 and they lost all chances to reach the next stage. Denisa Blanarova (184-F/C-97) led the winners with 12 points and Miroslava Mistinova (182-F-97) added 11 pts, plus 5 rebs. Veronika Remenarova (185-F-97) followed with double-double of 10 pts and 11 boards. In Sweden, Anna Lundqvist (176-G-96) answered with 10 pts and 11 rebs. Sigrid Sandstrom (177-G-96) stopped to 9 pts and 6 rebs in this defeat. Slovakia was up by 19 with ten minutes remaining in the game. Sweden drastically improved in Q4 (9-20), but it was too late for them. In the last day of the Qualifying Round, Slovakia will meet Hungary in crucial game for third place. Sweden will take on also winless Greece.

Group F

Spain - Croatia 65-50
Spain was too strong for Croatia today in Miskolc 65-50. Croatia made 9-13 in the first ten minutes of the game, but it was all from them. Spain took control on its rival for rest of the way to celebrate comfortable win (9-13, 18-8, 19-17, 19-12). Spain now has 3-1 record in the Qualifying Group F and already booked a ticket for the Quarterfinals. They will even fight for the first place in this pool. Croatia has 0-4 now and with no chance to advance. Elena Capella (171-G-96) scored 19 points in victory and Angela Salvadores (175-PG-97) added 15 points, plus 5 rebs. Helena Orts (184-F-96) posted 10 pts and 9 boards. In Croatia, Iva Slonjsak (181-SG-97) was way better than the others with 23 points and 7 rebounds. Their second scorer was Ivana Dojkic (176-SG-97) with 10 pts (6 rebs). Tomorrow, Spain will meet Czech Republic and Croatia will play against Holland.

Czech Republic - Italy 49-72
Both teams had 2-1 record before this meeting. Italy celebrated 72-49 victory and improved its score to 3-1 in Qualifying Group F. At the same time, Czech Republic slipped to 2-2. Both teams already booked a ticket for the Quarterfinals in Miskolc. Cecilia Zandalasini (182-F-96) shined for the winners with 18 points and 9 rebounds. Alessia Cabrini (177-SF-96) had 11 pts and 5 boards, and Marzia Tagliamento (179-F-96) posted 10 pts in victory. Sarah Berankova (176-PG-96) responded with 14 points in defeat. Their second scorer was Katerina Pracharova (177-SF-96) with 10 pts. Second quarter was the crucial one in this game as Italy stopped Czech Republic to just 2 points, while they scored 25. Quarters: 17-19, 2-25, 18-11, 12-17. Tomorrow, Italy will meet France. Czech Republic's rival will be Spain.

France - Holland 70-44
France secured a spot for the Quarterfinals at U16 EuroBasket in Miskolc. They blasted Holland today 70-44 for 3-1 record in Qualifying Group F. There is one more day to go at this phase and France will fight for the first place in the group. Their rival will be Italy tomorrow. Holland slipped to 1-3 and failed to reach the next stage, even if they beat Croatia tomorrow. France opened the game in style making 12-point lead in the first ten minutes. They jumped to 35-16 already at the halftime and question about the winners was resolved. Quarters: 19-7, 16-9, 16-16, 19-12. Marie Milapie (191-C-96) paced France with 14 points and 7 rebounds. Lisa Berkani (173-SG-97) and Katia Clanet (187-F-96) posted 12 pts each. In the loosing squad, Fleur Kuijt (174-G-96) and Esther Fokke (180-PF-96) netted 8 and 7 pts respectively. Eveline Kallenberg (170-PG-97) stopped to 6. Wednesday is the last day of the Qualifying Round in Miskolc.

Group G

United Kingdom - Turkey 59-66
Turkey handed 66-59 loss to United Kingdom in Miskolc today. Thanks to this win Turkey jumped to 2-0 record in Group G. Teams in this group fight for the survival in Division A of U16 EuroBasket. UK faced with the second straight loss and now has 0-2. Turkey shined in the last ten minutes to take the victory in this game. Quarters: 14-20, 18-14, 16-15, 11-17. Their leading player was Selale Kepenc (186-SF-98) with 15 points and 7 boards. Melis Gulcan (180-G-96) scored 14 pts and Serife Onar (167-PG-96) had four less. In UK, Rhianna-Mae Laing (170-PG-97) and Leah McDerment (180-PG-96) (5 rebs) netted 14 and 12 pts respectively. Evelyn Adebayo (185-PF-96) had 9 points and 8 rebs. Tomorrow, Turkey will play against Serbia. UK will meet Germany.

Germany - Serbia 59-54
Germany was better than Serbia 59-54 today in Miskolc. Both teams have 1-1 record in Group G now. Two teams from this pool will survive in Division A of U16 EuroBasket. It was a very exciting game and teams were tied at 43-43 at the beginning of the last period. Germany jumped to 55-47 with 3:46 to go, what was too much for Serbia. Quarters: 18-15, 10-13, 15-14, 16-12. Emma lina Stach (175-PG-96) was totally the best player in victory with 26 points and 14 rebounds. Patricia Brossmann (180-SF-97) (7 rebs) and Lena Wenke (178-SF-96) (5 rebs) helped with 7 points each. In Serbia, Aleksandra Crvendakic (188-F/C-96) shined with 26 points and 9 rebs. Aleksandra Katanic (172-PG-97) scored 16 pts. Germany will meet UK tomorrow, while Serbia will play against undefeated Turkey.


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FINLAND

U16 Finland keeps winning in Tallinn - by Eurobasket News

U16 DENMARK - U16 FINLAND 33-77

Finland jumped to 3-0 record in Group E of U16 EuroBasket Division B in Tallinn. They trashed Denmark on Monday 77-33 and already secured a spot for the Quarterfinals. Denmark dropped to 0-3 after this loss. However, they sill have a chance to reach the next stage. Tuuli Menna (183-F-96) led the winners with 19 points and 6 rebounds. Ninni Salmi (182-F-96) had 15 points and 6 boards, and Lotta Erakangas (183-F-97) netted 13 points. In defeat, Enna Pehadzic (176-G/F-97) (9 rebs), Sarah Mortensen (182-F-97) (8 rebs) and Emmelie Berg (176-F-96) netted 6 points each. Finland dominated in all basketball elements in this game. Quarters: 4-14, 8-23, 4-25, 17-15. On Tuesday, Finland will play against Israel. Denmark will meet Ukraine.

Denmark: Enna Pehadzic 6+9 boards, Sarah Mortensen 6+8 boards, Emmelie Berg 6
Finland: Tuuli Menna 19+6 boards, Ninni Salmi 15+6 boards, Lotta Erakangas 13


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FRANCE

Spain hands first loss to France at U16 EuroBasket - by Eurobasket News

U16 SPAIN - U16 FRANCE 55-49

Spain was better than France on Monday 55-49 handing them first loss at U16 EuroBasket in Miskolc. After this victory, Spain joined France with 2-1 record in Qualifying Group F. Czech Republic and Italy have the same numbers in this pool. Spain opened the game better making plus 5 in the first ten minutes, but France intensified defense and stopped Spain to just 4 pts for the entire Q2. They drained 17 at the other side for plus 8 at the halftime, but Spain replied with 17-11 after the breather. Angela Salvadores (175-PG-97) and her teammates continued in the same rhythm after that creating 17-9 in the last ten minutes of the game, what was enough for very valuable 55-49 victory. Salvadores led Spain in scoring with 19 points. Laura Quevedo (193-F-96) had 11 points and 5 boards, while Nogaye Lo Sylla (96) added 8 points and 8 rebs. In France, Lisa Berkani (173-SG-97) and Alix Duchet (165-PG-97) scored 15 and 12 points respectively. Marie Milapie (191-C-96) followed with 7 pts and 6 rebs. On Tuesday, Spain will play against Croatia, while France will meet Holland.

Spain: Angela Salvadores 19, Laura Quevedo 11+5 boards, Nogaye Lo Sylla 8+8 boards
France: Lisa Berkani 15, Alix Duchet 12, Marie Milapie 7+6 boards


Limoges ABC announced Princesse Goubo - by Eurobasket News

Limoges ABC announced Princesse Goubo (165-G-91) for the next season. Maxime Bezin added the French Guard as well as keep Lucie Martine Barba (185-F-92) in the roster.
Princesse Goubo started her career in 2008-2009 for Arras Pays d'Artois Basket Feminin (LFB). In her debut season she averaged 0.9ppg. In 2009-2010 for Arras Pays d'Artois Basket Feminin (LFB) she showed 0.5ppg. In 2010-2011 moved to B.Catalan Perpignan Med (LF2) and stayed for two seasons. In 2010/2011 her stats read 5.8ppg, 1.8rpg, 1.3apg, 2FGP: 32.6%, 3PT: 29.2%, FT: 54.3%.
In 2011-2012 for Perpignan Basket (LF2, starting five) she showed 3.9ppg, 1.4rpg, 1.5apg. In 2011 she was also the member of the French U20 National Team -11. At the European Championships U20 in Serbia her stats read 0.8ppg, 1.8rpg, 1.6apg. She became French LF2 Regular Season Champion -12 and French LF2 Champion -12.


U16 France jumps to 3-1 in Group F in Miskolc - by Eurobasket News

U16 FRANCE - U16 HOLLAND 70-44

France secured a spot for the Quarterfinals at U16 EuroBasket in Miskolc. They blasted Holland today 70-44 for 3-1 record in Qualifying Group F. There is one more day to go at this phase and France will fight for the first place in the group. Their rival will be Italy tomorrow. Holland slipped to 1-3 and failed to reach the next stage, even if they beat Croatia tomorrow. France opened the game in style making 12-point lead in the first ten minutes. They jumped to 35-16 already at the halftime and question about the winners was resolved. Quarters: 19-7, 16-9, 16-16, 19-12. Marie Milapie (191-C-96) paced France with 14 points and 7 rebounds. Lisa Berkani (173-SG-97) and Katia Clanet (187-F-96) posted 12 pts each. In the loosing squad, Fleur Kuijt (174-G-96) and Esther Fokke (180-PF-96) netted 8 and 7 pts respectively. Eveline Kallenberg (170-PG-97) stopped to 6. Wednesday is the last day of the Qualifying Round in Miskolc.

France: Marie Milapie 14+7 boards, Lisa Berkani 12, Katia Clanet 12
Holland: Fleur Kuijt 8, Esther Fokke 7, Eveline Kallenberg 6


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GERMANY

Vanessa House joins Avides Hurricanes - by Eurobasket News

Vanessa House (170-G-88, college: W.Virginia) joins BG '89 Avides for the upcoming season. The American player will move to Germany from Finland.
Vanessa House is an athletic combo guard. She is a great defender causes problems for the other team. Excellent ball handling skills, can create for her teammates. Excellent perimeter shooter from 3 point range.
In 2008-2009 she started for W.Virginia (NCAA) and averaged 6.6ppg, 2.4rpg, 1.1spg, FGP: 48.6%, 3Pts: 31.6%, FT: 85.7%. In 2009-2010 for W.Virginia (NCAA, starting five) she improved to 6.7ppg, 2.6rpg, 2.0apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 37.9%, 3PT: 33.0%, FT: 66.7%. In 2010-2011 for W.Virginia (NCAA) after 34 games her stats read 5.0ppg, 1.9rpg, 2.0apg.
In 2011-2012 Vanessa House moved to Forssan Alku (Finland-D1, starting five) and became the second top-scorer with 17.5ppg, 6.0rpg, Assists-1 (4.3apg), Steals-2 (2.5spg), FGP: 46.6%, 3PT: 26.4%, FT-2 (85.3%).
In Finland she was named Eurobasket.com All-Finnish League Guard of the Year -12, Eurobasket.com All-Finnish League Import of the Year -12, Eurobasket.com All-Finnish League 1st Team -12, Eurobasket.com Finnish League All-Imports Team -12, Eurobasket.com Finnish League All-Defensive Team -12 and became Finnish Cup Semifinals -12.


SV Halle Lions keep Canadian Tamara Tatham - by Eurobasket News

SV Halle Lions keep Canadian Tamara Tatham (185-F-85, college: Massachusetts) for the next season. The second top-scorer of the League will enter her fourth season with the team.
In 2005-2006 she played for Massachusetts (NCAA) and averaged 10.0ppg, 6.9rpg, 2.0apg, 1.4spg, FG: 45.7%. In 2007-2008 moved to Catz Lappeenranta (Finland-D1, starting five) and averaged 14.1ppg, 7.6rpg, 1.7apg, 2.5spg, FGP: 49.1%, 3PT: 27.6%, FT: 76.2%.
In 2008-2009 Tamara Tatham played her first season for SV Halle Lions (Germany-DBBL, starting five)and had massive 20.0ppg, 9.8rpg, 1.6apg, 2.9spg, 2FGP: 60.0%, FT: 67.0%. In 2009 SV Halle Lions however have confirmed that their topscorer Tamara Tatham headed to TSV Wasserburg. In 2009-2010 for TSV 1880 Wasserburg (Germany-DBBL, starting five) she showed 13.0ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.1apg, 2.0spg, FGP-1 (59.1%), FT: 73.2%.
In Dec.'10 signed back at SV Halle Lions (Germany-DBBL, starting five) and became the fifth top-scorer in the League with 16.5ppg, Reb-2 (8.2rpg), 2.5apg, Steals-4 (2.4spg), FGP: 55.2%, FT: 70.5%.
Last season for SV Halle Lions (Germany-DBBL, starting five) sh had high 21.0ppg, Reb-2 (10.5rpg), 2.8apg, Steals-1 (3.2spg), FGP-1 (60.2%), FT: 74.4%.


TBA Fireballs bring in Serbian Julijana Kancevic - by Eurobasket News

TBA Fireballs bring in Serbian Julijana Kancevic (168-G-86) for 2012/2013 season. The player moves to Germany from Crvena Zvezda Beograd.
In 2005-2006 she started for Usce (1A) and in 2007-2008 continued for Usce Novi Beograd (A League, starting five). In 2008-2009 Kancevic appeared for Stara Pazova (B League, starting five), while in 2009-2010 moved to ZKK Partizan Beograd (A League).
In 2010-2011 moved to Petrolina AEK Larnaca (Cyprus-A1) and in 2011-2012 played for Crvena Zvezda Beograd (Serbia-A League). In 22 games her stats read 2.7ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.7spg.
For her Awards/Achievements it is a must to mention that she was Serbian Cup Finalist -10, Serbian League Champion -10 and Serbian League Regular Season Champion -10. Moreover Julijana Kancevic became a Cyprus A1 Regular Season Runner-Up -11 and Cyprus A1 Finalist -11.


U16 Germany grabs valuable win against U16 Serbia, 59-54 - by Eurobasket News

U16 GERMANY - U16 SERBIA 59-54

Germany was better than Serbia 59-54 today in Miskolc. Both teams have 1-1 record in Group G now. Two teams from this pool will survive in Division A of U16 EuroBasket. It was a very exciting game and teams were tied at 43-43 at the beginning of the last period. Germany jumped to 55-47 with 3:46 to go, what was too much for Serbia. Quarters: 18-15, 10-13, 15-14, 16-12. Emma lina Stach (175-PG-96) was totally the best player in victory with 26 points and 14 rebounds. Patricia Brossmann (180-SF-97) (7 rebs) and Lena Wenke (178-SF-96) (5 rebs) helped with 7 points each. In Serbia, Aleksandra Crvendakic (188-F/C-96) shined with 26 points and 9 rebs. Aleksandra Katanic (172-PG-97) scored 16 pts. Germany will meet UK tomorrow, while Serbia will play against undefeated Turkey.

Germany: Emma lina Stach 26+14 boards, Patricia Brossmann 7+7 boards, Lena Wenke 7+5 boards
Serbia: Aleksandra Crvendakic 26+9 boards, Aleksandra Katanic 16


Kepenc leads U16 Turkey to thriller win over U16 Germany in Miskolc - by Eurobasket News

U16 TURKEY - U16 GERMANY 59-56

Turkey made a first step toward survival in Division A of U16 EuroBasket. They handed 59-56 loss to Germany for 1-0 record in Group G. There are five more rounds to be played in this pool. Selale Kepenc (186-SF-98) led the winners with 14 points and 13 rebounds. Serife Onar (167-PG-96) scored 10 points and Melis Gulcan (180-G-96) added 9 pts, plus 11 rebs. Emma lina Stach (175-PG-96) had 20 points and 7 rebounds in defeat. Patricia Brossmann (180-SF-97) added 12 points and 11 rebounds, while Nele Aha (171-PG-96) and Jennifer Crowder (164-G-96) posted 8 pts each. Teams were tied at 55-55 with 45 seconds remaining in the game. Kepenc made a lay-up for Turkey and Stach missed a jump shot at the other side. Gulcan missed two free throws for Turkey and Brossmann split them for Germany. Gulcan and Crowder exchanged turnovers and Kepenc closed this game with two free throws for 59-56 Turkey win.

Turkey: Selale Kepenc 14+13 boards, Serife Onar 10, Melis Gulcan 9+11 boards
Germany: Emma lina Stach 20+7 boards, Patricia Brossmann 12+11 boards, Nele Aha 8, Jennifer Crowder 8


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GREECE

U16 Belgium extends winning streak in Miskolc - by Eurobasket News

U16 BELGIUM - U16 GREECE 52-26

Belgium limited Greece to just 26 points for the game today. At the other side Belgium drained 52 for 4-0 record in Qualifying Group E of U16 EuroBasket in Miskolc. Belgium already secured a spot in the Quarterfinals. They will play against Russia tomorrow in crucial game for the first place in the group. Greece faced with another loss and now has 0-4 record. It is already clear that Greece will continue in Classification Round after this phase. Loes Breughe (175-G-96) scored 11 points for Belgium and Kyara Linskens (189-C-96) added 7 pts, plus 8 rebounds. Emma Uittenhove (167-PG-96) also had 7 points in this game. Greece got 6 points and 7 rebs from Kleanthi Oikonomaki (182-F-96). Vasiliki Karambatsa (183-F-96) was another player with 6 pts. Belgium dominated during the entire game having no troubles to register comfortable win. Quarters: 13-10, 14-6, 13-4, 12-6.

Belgium: Loes Breughe 11, Kyara Linskens 7+8 boards, Emma Uittenhove 7
Greece: Kleanthi Oikonomaki 6+7 boards, Vasiliki Karambatsa 6


U16 Hungary blasts U16 Greece in Miskolc - by Eurobasket News

U16 GREECE - U16 HUNGARY 42-74

Hungary did a great job against Greece on Monday. Hungary blasted its rival 74-42 for 2-1 record in the Qualifying Group E of U16 EuroBasket in Miskolc. That is currently enough for third place and Hungary is already with one leg in the Quarterfinals. Agnes Dobos (190-C-96) shined for the winners with 15 and 7 rebounds, and Bernadett Horvath (168-PG-96) also added 15 pts to this victory. Debora Dubei (180-SF-97) followed them with 13 points and 5 boards. In Greece, Pinelopi Pavlopoulou (170-PG-96) was better than the others with 12 points. Eleanna Christinaki (181-G-96) (5 rebs) and Evgenia Kollatou (172-PG-98) had 6 pts each. Hungary exploded in the first quarter making 31-8 lead. Greece simply was not able to reply and faced with huge loss at the end. On Tuesday, Greece will meet Belgium, while Hungary will take on Russia.

Greece: Pinelopi Pavlopoulou 12, Eleanna Christinaki 6+5 boards, Evgenia Kollatou 6
Hungary: Agnes Dobos 15+7 boards, Bernadett Horvath 15, Debora Dubei 13+5 boards


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HOLLAND

U16 France jumps to 3-1 in Group F in Miskolc - by Eurobasket News

U16 FRANCE - U16 HOLLAND 70-44

France secured a spot for the Quarterfinals at U16 EuroBasket in Miskolc. They blasted Holland today 70-44 for 3-1 record in Qualifying Group F. There is one more day to go at this phase and France will fight for the first place in the group. Their rival will be Italy tomorrow. Holland slipped to 1-3 and failed to reach the next stage, even if they beat Croatia tomorrow. France opened the game in style making 12-point lead in the first ten minutes. They jumped to 35-16 already at the halftime and question about the winners was resolved. Quarters: 19-7, 16-9, 16-16, 19-12. Marie Milapie (191-C-96) paced France with 14 points and 7 rebounds. Lisa Berkani (173-SG-97) and Katia Clanet (187-F-96) posted 12 pts each. In the loosing squad, Fleur Kuijt (174-G-96) and Esther Fokke (180-PF-96) netted 8 and 7 pts respectively. Eveline Kallenberg (170-PG-97) stopped to 6. Wednesday is the last day of the Qualifying Round in Miskolc.

France: Marie Milapie 14+7 boards, Lisa Berkani 12, Katia Clanet 12
Holland: Fleur Kuijt 8, Esther Fokke 7, Eveline Kallenberg 6


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HUNGARY

U16 Hungary blasts U16 Greece in Miskolc - by Eurobasket News

U16 GREECE - U16 HUNGARY 42-74

Hungary did a great job against Greece on Monday. Hungary blasted its rival 74-42 for 2-1 record in the Qualifying Group E of U16 EuroBasket in Miskolc. That is currently enough for third place and Hungary is already with one leg in the Quarterfinals. Agnes Dobos (190-C-96) shined for the winners with 15 and 7 rebounds, and Bernadett Horvath (168-PG-96) also added 15 pts to this victory. Debora Dubei (180-SF-97) followed them with 13 points and 5 boards. In Greece, Pinelopi Pavlopoulou (170-PG-96) was better than the others with 12 points. Eleanna Christinaki (181-G-96) (5 rebs) and Evgenia Kollatou (172-PG-98) had 6 pts each. Hungary exploded in the first quarter making 31-8 lead. Greece simply was not able to reply and faced with huge loss at the end. On Tuesday, Greece will meet Belgium, while Hungary will take on Russia.

Greece: Pinelopi Pavlopoulou 12, Eleanna Christinaki 6+5 boards, Evgenia Kollatou 6
Hungary: Agnes Dobos 15+7 boards, Bernadett Horvath 15, Debora Dubei 13+5 boards


U16 Russia celebrates another win in Miskolc - by Eurobasket News

U16 HUNGARY - U16 RUSSIA 53-61

Russia had another joyful day in Miskolc. This time Russia was too strong for Hungary 61-53 for 4-0 record in Qualifying Group E (U16 EuroBasket). Russia already booked a spot for the Quarterfinals and will fight against Belgium tomorrow for the first place in this pool. At the other side, Hungary dropped to 2-2, but they will also reach the next stage. Tomorrow, Hungary will meet Slovakia in the battle for third place. Elizaveta Bratchikova (189-PF-96) shined for Russia with 23 points and 10 rebounds. Daria Kolosovskaya (181-SF-96) had 15 points and 6 rebs, while Ksenia Levchenko (165-PG-96) helped her team with 10 points, 6 assists and 5 rebs. Hungary got 17 points and 11 boards from Agnes Dobos (190-C-96), and Bernadett Horvath (168-PG-96) posted 11 pts. Debora Dubei (180-SF-97) stopped to 10 pts. Quarters: 16-16, 12-18, 12-16, 13-11. Russia was 10-points up at the middle of Q4 and had no troubles to keep it for rest of the way.

Hungary: Agnes Dobos 17+11 boards, Bernadett Horvath 11, Debora Dubei 10
Russia: Elizaveta Bratchikova 23+10 boards, Daria Kolosovskaya 15+6 boards, Ksenia Levchenko 10+6 as+5 boards


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ISRAEL

Kostourkova paces U16 Portugal to 55-42 win over U16 Israel - by Eurobasket News

U16 ISRAEL - U16 PORTUGAL 42-55

Both teams transferred 1 win and 1 defeat to Group E of the Qualifying Round in Tallinn (U16 EuroBasket Division B). Portugal celebrated 55-42 win on Monday improving its score to 2-1 and now shares the second place with Lithuania. Israel dropped to position No.4, but that would be still enough for the Quarterfinals and the end of this phase. Maria Kostourkova (188-C-97) was a key player in Portugal with double-double of 21 points and 15 rebounds. She reached valuation 26 and was the MVP of this game. Simone Costa (176-G-96) had 14 pts and 5 assists, while Francisca Meinedo (165-PG-96) added 8 points. In defeat, Noa Zelivanski (171-PG-96) was the top-scorer with 9 points. Eden Porat (176-F-96) (8 rebs) and Ofir Banet (165-PG-96) delivered 8 points each. Quarters: 12-14, 11-17, 8-13, 11-11. On Tuesday, Portugal will fight against Lithuania. Israel will meet top-ranked Finland.

Israel: Noa Zelivanski 9, Eden Porat 8+8 boards, Ofir Banet 8
Portugal: Maria Kostourkova 21+15 boards, Simone Costa 14+5 as, Francisca Meinedo 8


Courtney Hurt joined Elizur Netanya - by Eurobasket Center

Courtney Hurt (185-F-90) joined Elizur Netanya which continues to get stronger for next season. Hurt plays as a Forward and she is a graduate of Virginia University (VCU) where she played over 120 games. In 34 games she played for her team in the last season Hurt posted averages of: 22.3 points, 13.1 rebounds, 1.5 assists and 1.5 steals in 35 minutes per game. In the WNBA draft of 2012 Hurt was selected as choice No.34 by the Indiana Fever.

The Coach, Zohar Riezman : "Courtney Hurt is one of the most talented players in her age in the USA, I am glad we were able to add her to the roster we are building for the next season".

Courtney Hurt: "I decided to come to Israel because I want to compete at a high level and I feel like this particular team will fit for me and my talents. I am expecting come in and help my team in any possible way, I was a versatile scorer and tenacious rebounder in college so I hope to bring that to Netanya .This is my first season overseas and I am very excited and nervous at the same time. I am blessed to be in this position and thankful to be a part of the Elizur".


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ITALY

Benedetta Bagnara remains with Ducato Lucca - by Eurobasket News

Benedetta Bagnara (178-G-87, agency: LBM Management) remains with Ducato Lucca for another season. The Italian Guard will enter her third season with the team.
In 2002-2003 she appeared for Bologna (B1) and then played for Reggio Emilia (A2). In 2005-2006 joined Juvenilia Reggio Emilia (A2) and in 2006-2007 headed to TermoCarispe La Spezia (A1). In 20 games her stats read 6.3ppg, 1.7rpg, 2FGP: 34,1%, 3PT: 37,1%, FT: 73,1% - Memar Reggio Emilia (Italy-A2).
In 2007-2008 for TermoCarispe La Spezia (A1, starting five) Benedetta Bagnara averaged 9.2ppg, 1.8rpg, 1.3spg, FGP: 31.1%, 3PT: 34.0%, FT: 68.9%. In 2008-2009 moved to Women Basket Livorno (A1) and showed 10.8ppg, 2.1rpg, 2.2spg, FGP: 48.3%, 3PT: 31.9%, FT: 76.4%.In 2009-2010 played for Liomatic Umbertide (A1) as her stats read 9.5ppg, 1.6rpg, 2.5spg, FGP: 44.4%, 3PT: 34.1%, FT: 73.8%.
The season 2010-2011 started for Ducato Lucca (A1, starting five) and in her first season averaged 10.8ppg, 1.7rpg, 1.4apg, 2.5spg, FGP: 40.4%, 3PT: 31.5%, FT: 72.5%.
Last year for Ducato Lucca (A1, starting five) her stats read 11.2ppg, 2.0rpg, 1.1apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 36.7%, 3PT: 38.1%, FT: 77.9%.


Stefano Scotto di Luzio is the Head Coach of Pozzuoli - by Eurobasket News

Stefano Scotto di Luzio is the Head Coach of Pozzuoli for 2012/2013 season. The team announced the Italian specialist.
He worked as a Coach Assistant for Eldo Basket Napoli (SerieA) and Phard Napoli (A1) women team. In 2010 became the Head Coach: of Pall.Pozzuoli (A1) women team.


U16 Italy too strong for U16 Czech Republic, 72-49 - by Eurobasket News

U16 CZECH REPUBLIC - U16 ITALY 49-72

Both teams had 2-1 record before this meeting. Italy celebrated 72-49 victory and improved its score to 3-1 in Qualifying Group F. At the same time, Czech Republic slipped to 2-2. Both teams already booked a ticket for the Quarterfinals in Miskolc. Cecilia Zandalasini (182-F-96) shined for the winners with 18 points and 9 rebounds. Alessia Cabrini (177-SF-96) had 11 pts and 5 boards, and Marzia Tagliamento (179-F-96) posted 10 pts in victory. Sarah Berankova (176-PG-96) responded with 14 points in defeat. Their second scorer was Katerina Pracharova (177-SF-96) with 10 pts. Second quarter was the crucial one in this game as Italy stopped Czech Republic to just 2 points, while they scored 25. Quarters: 17-19, 2-25, 18-11, 12-17. Tomorrow, Italy will meet France. Czech Republic's rival will be Spain.

Czech Republic: Sarah Berankova 14, Katerina Pracharova 10
Italy: Cecilia Zandalasini 18+9 boards, Alessia Cabrini 11+5 boards, Marzia Tagliamento 10


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LATVIA

U16 Latvia hands 59-54 loss to U16 Bulgaria - by Eurobasket News

U16 LATVIA - U16 BULGARIA 59-54

Latvia was better than Bulgaria 59-54 in the first game of the Qualifying Round in Tallinn (U16 EuroBasket Division B). Both teams had 1-1 record before this meeting. Now, Latvia is third ranked team, while Bulgaria dropped to 1-2. Kitija Laksa (180-G-96) paced the winning squad with 24 points and 8 rebounds for 36 minutes on the court. Paula Strautmane (182-F-97) had 9 points and also 8 rebs, while Kitija Stolce (184-F-96) added 6 points and 5 rebs. Bulgaria got 23 points (5 rebs) from Iva Georgieva (172-F-96), and 17 pts (6 rebs) from Borislava Hristova (180-F-96). Latvia was up by one (51-50) with 6:45 remaining in the game. They managed to close this meeting with 8-3 and to take very valuable win. Quarters: 18-17, 10-7, 19-16, 12-14. Latvia will play against Poland in the next round. Bulgaria will take on Slovenia.

Latvia: Kitija Laksa 24+8 boards, Paula Strautmane 9+8 boards, Kitija Stolce 6+5 boards
Bulgaria: Iva Georgieva 23+5 boards, Borislava Hristova 17+6 boards


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LITHUANIA

U16 Ukraine downs U16 Lithuania in Tallinn, 65-58 - by Eurobasket News

U16 UKRAINE - U16 LITHUANIA 65-58

Ukraine did a great job against Lithuania in the first game of the Qualifying Round in Tallinn (U16 EuroBasket Division B). They celebrated 65-58 victory for 1-2 record in Group E making the big step towards Quarterfinals. Lithuania slipped to 2-1 after this loss and now shares the second place with Portugal. Vita Gorobets (180-SG-96) stepped up for the winners with 22 points and 9 rebounds. Iryna Zhmurko (184-F-96) secured a nice help with 11 points and 10 rebounds, while Anastasiya Polovynka (176-G-96) added 9 points and 10 boards. In defeat, Agne Cerneckyte (171-SG-96) collected 22 points and 5 rebs. Laura Juskaite (187-PF-97) had 11 pts and 12 boards, while Daugile Sarauskaite (196-C-96) added 10 points and 8 rebs. Lithuania had 56-57 lead with 4:33 minutes remaining, but than Ukraine made impressive 9-1 run to close this game. Quarters: 21-20, 13-9, 16-15, 15-14. On Tuesday, Ukraine will play against winless Denmark. Lithuanias rival will be Portugal.

Ukraine: Vita Gorobets 22+9 boards, Iryna Zhmurko 11+10 boards, Anastasiya Polovynka 9+10 boards
Lithuania: Agne Cerneckyte 22+5 boards, Laura Juskaite 11+12 boards, Daugile Sarauskaite 10+8 boards


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LUXEMBOURG

AB Contern add Nadine Grieb - by Eurobasket News

AB Contern bolstered their roster. They added Nadine Grieb (183-C-87) to the squad. The German centre signed a one-year deal with Contern. Nadine Grieb spent the last season with Trier. She averaged 16.6 points, 15.5 boards, 3.0 assists and 2.5 steals per game in 2.Bundesliga. Eurobasket.com named Nadine Grieb All-German 2.Bundesliga South Centre of the Year. She also made it into All-German 2.Bundesliga South 1st Team. Previously Nadine Grieb had stints with Mainz, Saarlouis and Chemnitz. The centre was named into German DBBL All-Newcomers Team in 2008. She was DBBL Cup winner in 2008 and 2009 as well as DBBL champion in 2009.


Another joyful day for U16 Slovenia in Tallinn - by Eurobasket News

U16 LUXEMBOURG - U16 SLOVENIA 43-66

Slovenia had another great game in Tallinn at U16 EuroBasket Division B. Slovenia celebrated 66-43 win against Luxembourg for 3-0 record in Group F of the Qualifying Round. It is already enough for the Quarterfinals, despite there are two more days in this phase. Luxembourg dropped to 0-3 and they are in difficult situation now. Slovenia had impressive second quarter to secure the victory in this meeting (9-8, 7-25, 13-19, 14-14). Sabina Ajkic (176-SG-96) and Larisa Ocvirk (184-F-97) (8 rebs) scored 13 and 12 pts respectively for the winners. Maja Jakobcic (184-PF-97) had 11 points and 6 rebs. In defeat, Lisa Jablonowski (186-C-97) collected 9 points and 8 rebs. Their second scorer was Jessy Goergen (173-PG-97) with 7 pts and Cathrin Wolff (179-C-96) added 6 pts, plus 12 boards. On Tuesday, Slovenia will play against Bulgaria. Luxembourg will meet also winless Belarus in crucial game. The winner will keep its Quarterfinals hopes alive.

Luxembourg: Lisa Jablonowski 9+8 boards, Jessy Goergen 7, Cathrin Wolff 6+12 boards
Slovenia: Sabina Ajkic 13, Larisa Ocvirk 12+8 boards, Maja Jakobcic 11+6 boards


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POLAND

Poland shines at U16 EuroBasket Division B in Tallinn - by Eurobasket News

U16 BELARUS - U16 POLAND 49-77

Another win for Poland at U16 EuroBasket Division B in Tallinn. This time they handed 77-49 loss to Belarus for perfect 3-0 record in the Qualifying Group F. Thanks to this win Poland already secured a ticket for the Quarterfinals. Belarus dropped to 0-3, but still has a chance to advance. Except of the first ten minutes, Poland totally controlled flow of the game. Quarters: 18-14, 9-24, 13-22, 9-17. Karolina Pobozy (188-F-96) led the winners with 24 points and 8 rebounds (valuation 26, MVP). Patrycja Klatt (171-G-96) was the second scorer with 10 pts and Amalia Rembiszewska (189-F-96) had 9. Belarus got 10 points from Anastasiya Sushchyk (160-PG-97). Yanina Inkina (183-PF-97) (5 rebs) and Darya Panasiuk (175-SF-96) posted 8 points each. In the next game, Poland will meet Latvia. Belarus and Luxembourg will play against each other.

Belarus: Anastasiya Sushchyk 10, Yanina Inkina 8+5 boards, Darya Panasiuk 8
Poland: Karolina Pobozy 24+8 boards, Patrycja Klatt 10, Amalia Rembiszewska 9


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PORTUGAL

Kostourkova paces U16 Portugal to 55-42 win over U16 Israel - by Eurobasket News

U16 ISRAEL - U16 PORTUGAL 42-55

Both teams transferred 1 win and 1 defeat to Group E of the Qualifying Round in Tallinn (U16 EuroBasket Division B). Portugal celebrated 55-42 win on Monday improving its score to 2-1 and now shares the second place with Lithuania. Israel dropped to position No.4, but that would be still enough for the Quarterfinals and the end of this phase. Maria Kostourkova (188-C-97) was a key player in Portugal with double-double of 21 points and 15 rebounds. She reached valuation 26 and was the MVP of this game. Simone Costa (176-G-96) had 14 pts and 5 assists, while Francisca Meinedo (165-PG-96) added 8 points. In defeat, Noa Zelivanski (171-PG-96) was the top-scorer with 9 points. Eden Porat (176-F-96) (8 rebs) and Ofir Banet (165-PG-96) delivered 8 points each. Quarters: 12-14, 11-17, 8-13, 11-11. On Tuesday, Portugal will fight against Lithuania. Israel will meet top-ranked Finland.

Israel: Noa Zelivanski 9, Eden Porat 8+8 boards, Ofir Banet 8
Portugal: Maria Kostourkova 21+15 boards, Simone Costa 14+5 as, Francisca Meinedo 8


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ROMANIA

Ashley Arlen has signed with BCT Alexandria - by Eurobasket News

Ashley Arlen (187-F-90, agency: Gamble Sports Management, college: Wayne St., NE) has signed with BCT Alexandria. The American Forward will debut in Europe.
Ashley is a highly skilled lefty who can score from anywhere on the court. She has a strong post game, can score off the dribble and shoot the 3PT shot. Ashley is a very good rebounder who can defend all frontcourt positions.
In 2008-2009 she started for Iowa St. (NCAA) and in 34 games averaged 3.5ppg, 3.1rpg. In 2010-2011 Arlen moved to Wayne St., NE (NCAA2, starting five) and showed 16.4ppg, 8.6rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 42.7%, 3PT: 30.2%, FT: 78.4%.
The last season for Wayne St., NE (NCAA2, starting five) her stats read 18.1ppg, 9.4rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 48.1%, 3PT: 32.5%, FT: 79.8%. Ashley Arlen was named WBCA/State Farm First Team All-American, Daktronics First Team All-American, Most Valuable Player of the Central Region Tournament, NSIC Player of the Year (second straight season), NSIC All-Conference First Team (third straight season), Women's Divisin II Bulletin Player of the Month for February, Daktronics Central Region Player of the Year (2nd straight season) and NSIC All-Tournament Team in the 2011-12 season. She made a career-high 16 free throws at MSU Moorhead on February 25th.


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RUSSIA

Czech Republic beat Russia twice in Jindrichuv Hradec - by Eurobasket News

Czech Republic beat Russia twice in Jindrichuv Hradec to sweep the series. The hosts won both games before the London Olympics.
In Game 1 Czech Republic outscored Russia 73:63. The hosts started with 18-10 and led 8-points at the halftime. Russian was stronger in the third quarter 18-17, while the Czechs replied with 22-19 in the last. Eva Viteckova (190-F-82) poured in 21 points for the winners and Tereza Peckova (189-F-87) had 10. Elena Danilochkina (186-G-86) ended up with 15 points in defeat and Anna Petrakova scored 14.
In Game 2 Czech Republic needed a strong third period to seal a 57:48 victory. Russia started with 16-12 lead and led 4 points after two quarters. In the third period the hosts erupted with 20-7 surge and later both teams nailed 14 points each in the last stanza. Eva Viteckova paced all the winners with 20 points, while Ilona Burgrova (196-C-84, college: S.Carolina) added 8 and Elhotova scored 7. Natalia Vieru (197-C-89) and Nadezhda Grishaeva (195-PF-89) finished the game with 9 points each in the losing effort.


U16 Russia celebrates another win in Miskolc - by Eurobasket News

U16 HUNGARY - U16 RUSSIA 53-61

Russia had another joyful day in Miskolc. This time Russia was too strong for Hungary 61-53 for 4-0 record in Qualifying Group E (U16 EuroBasket). Russia already booked a spot for the Quarterfinals and will fight against Belgium tomorrow for the first place in this pool. At the other side, Hungary dropped to 2-2, but they will also reach the next stage. Tomorrow, Hungary will meet Slovakia in the battle for third place. Elizaveta Bratchikova (189-PF-96) shined for Russia with 23 points and 10 rebounds. Daria Kolosovskaya (181-SF-96) had 15 points and 6 rebs, while Ksenia Levchenko (165-PG-96) helped her team with 10 points, 6 assists and 5 rebs. Hungary got 17 points and 11 boards from Agnes Dobos (190-C-96), and Bernadett Horvath (168-PG-96) posted 11 pts. Debora Dubei (180-SF-97) stopped to 10 pts. Quarters: 16-16, 12-18, 12-16, 13-11. Russia was 10-points up at the middle of Q4 and had no troubles to keep it for rest of the way.

Hungary: Agnes Dobos 17+11 boards, Bernadett Horvath 11, Debora Dubei 10
Russia: Elizaveta Bratchikova 23+10 boards, Daria Kolosovskaya 15+6 boards, Ksenia Levchenko 10+6 as+5 boards


Russia extends winning streak at U16 EuroBasket - by Eurobasket News

U16 SWEDEN - U16 RUSSIA 37-61

Russia already booked a ticket for the Quarterfinals of U16 EuroBasket in Miskolc. It was only the first round of the Qualifying Round, but Russia outplayed Sweden 61-37 and jumped to 3-0 in Group E, what is already enough for the next stage. Sweden dropped to 0-3 in this pool. Russia made 8-point lead in the first quarter and limited its rival to 6 pts in Q2, while scoring 21 at the other side. It means that Russia had plus 20 at the halftime and all after that was just the formality. Daria Kolosovskaya (181-SF-96) was their top-scorer with 14 points. Zhosselina Maiga (193-C-96) had 10 points and 6 rebounds, and Elizaveta Bratchikova (189-PF-96) added 8 pts and 10 boards. Andjela Hrnjez (185-C-96) answered with 8 points and 7 rebounds in loss, but with poor shot percentage for 2 and 3 pts. Elin Ljunggren (182-F-96) and Kajsa Carlsson (179-F-96) posted 6 pts apiece. In the next round, Russia will play against Hungary. Sweden's rival will be Slovakia.

Sweden: Andjela Hrnjez 8+7 boards, Elin Ljunggren 6, Kajsa Carlsson 6
Russia: Daria Kolosovskaya 14, Zhosselina Maiga 10+6 boards, Elizaveta Bratchikova 8+10 boards


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SERBIA

TBA Fireballs bring in Serbian Julijana Kancevic - by Eurobasket News

TBA Fireballs bring in Serbian Julijana Kancevic (168-G-86) for 2012/2013 season. The player moves to Germany from Crvena Zvezda Beograd.
In 2005-2006 she started for Usce (1A) and in 2007-2008 continued for Usce Novi Beograd (A League, starting five). In 2008-2009 Kancevic appeared for Stara Pazova (B League, starting five), while in 2009-2010 moved to ZKK Partizan Beograd (A League).
In 2010-2011 moved to Petrolina AEK Larnaca (Cyprus-A1) and in 2011-2012 played for Crvena Zvezda Beograd (Serbia-A League). In 22 games her stats read 2.7ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.7spg.
For her Awards/Achievements it is a must to mention that she was Serbian Cup Finalist -10, Serbian League Champion -10 and Serbian League Regular Season Champion -10. Moreover Julijana Kancevic became a Cyprus A1 Regular Season Runner-Up -11 and Cyprus A1 Finalist -11.


Serbia destroys UK at U16 EuroBasket, Group G - by Eurobasket News

U16 SERBIA - U16 UNITED KINGDOM 71-39

Serbia had no mercy for United Kingdom 71-39 in the first game of U16 EuroBasket - Group G. Teams in this pool fight for the survival in Division A. Serbia took control on its rival from the beginning and never looked back. Quarters: 22-9, 24-10, 14-10, 11-10. Snezana Bogicevic (176-PG-97) led Serbia in scoring with 13 points. Aleksandra Crvendakic (188-F/C-96) had double-double of 11 points and 11 rebounds, and Zeljka Petkovic (188-C-96) helped with 9 pts. In UK, Shanice Norton (170-SG-97) answered with 14 points and 9 rebounds. Evelyn Adebayo (185-PF-96) (6 rebs) and Leah McDerment (180-PG-96) stopped to 6 pts each. In the next round, Serbia will meet Germany. UK will play against Turkey.

Serbia: Snezana Bogicevic 13, Aleksandra Crvendakic 11+11 boards, Zeljka Petkovic 9
United Kingdom: Shanice Norton 14+9 boards, Evelyn Adebayo 6+6 boards, Leah McDerment 6


U16 Germany grabs valuable win against U16 Serbia, 59-54 - by Eurobasket News

U16 GERMANY - U16 SERBIA 59-54

Germany was better than Serbia 59-54 today in Miskolc. Both teams have 1-1 record in Group G now. Two teams from this pool will survive in Division A of U16 EuroBasket. It was a very exciting game and teams were tied at 43-43 at the beginning of the last period. Germany jumped to 55-47 with 3:46 to go, what was too much for Serbia. Quarters: 18-15, 10-13, 15-14, 16-12. Emma lina Stach (175-PG-96) was totally the best player in victory with 26 points and 14 rebounds. Patricia Brossmann (180-SF-97) (7 rebs) and Lena Wenke (178-SF-96) (5 rebs) helped with 7 points each. In Serbia, Aleksandra Crvendakic (188-F/C-96) shined with 26 points and 9 rebs. Aleksandra Katanic (172-PG-97) scored 16 pts. Germany will meet UK tomorrow, while Serbia will play against undefeated Turkey.

Germany: Emma lina Stach 26+14 boards, Patricia Brossmann 7+7 boards, Lena Wenke 7+5 boards
Serbia: Aleksandra Crvendakic 26+9 boards, Aleksandra Katanic 16


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SLOVAKIA

U16 Slovakia books Quarterfinals ticket in Miskolc - by Eurobasket News

U16 SLOVAKIA - U16 SWEDEN 54-46

Slovakia handed 54-46 loss to Sweden today. Thanks to this victory Slovakia jumped to 2-2 record in Qualifying Group E and already booked a spot for the Quarterfinals (U16 EuroBasket. They currently share third place in this pool with Hungary. At the other side, Sweden dropped to 0-4 and they lost all chances to reach the next stage. Denisa Blanarova (184-F/C-97) led the winners with 12 points and Miroslava Mistinova (182-F-97) added 11 pts, plus 5 rebs. Veronika Remenarova (185-F-97) followed with double-double of 10 pts and 11 boards. In Sweden, Anna Lundqvist (176-G-96) answered with 10 pts and 11 rebs. Sigrid Sandstrom (177-G-96) stopped to 9 pts and 6 rebs in this defeat. Slovakia was up by 19 with ten minutes remaining in the game. Sweden drastically improved in Q4 (9-20), but it was too late for them. In the last day of the Qualifying Round, Slovakia will meet Hungary in crucial game for third place. Sweden will take on also winless Greece.

Slovakia: Denisa Blanarova 12, Miroslava Mistinova 11+5 boards, Veronika Remenarova 10+11 boards
Sweden: Anna Lundqvist 10+11 boards, Sigrid Sandstrom 9+6 boards


U16 Belgium jumps to 3-0 in Group E in Miskolc - by Eurobasket News

U16 SLOVAKIA - U16 BELGIUM 47-59

Belgium jumped to 3-0 record in Group E of the Qualifying Round in Miskolc (U16 EuroBasket). They cruised past Slovakia 47-59 on Monday and already booked a spot for the Quarterfinals, despite there are two more rounds to go at this stage. Belgium shares first place in the group with Russia. At the other side, Slovakia dropped to 1-2, but still has a nice chance to advance. Julie Allemand (173-PG-96) (6 rebs), Eva Devliegher (170-SG-96) (5 rebs) and Laeticia Mpoyi (179-C-96) (5 rebs) led the winners with 10 points each. Slovakia got 12 points from Katarina Urbaniova (169-PG-96). Miroslava Mistinova (182-F-97) and Lucia Ondrejkova (170-G/F-96) (5 rebs) netted 8 and 6 points respectively. Belgium was up by 8 at the halftime and jumped to plus 13 with one quarter remaining. It was too much for Slovakia for rest of the way. Belgium will play against last ranked Greece in the next round. Slovakia will meet Sweden.

Slovakia: Katarina Urbaniova 12, Miroslava Mistinova 8, Lucia Ondrejkova 6+5 boards
Belgium: Julie Allemand 10+6 boards, Eva Devliegher 10+5 boards, Laeticia Mpoyi 10+5 boards


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SLOVENIA

Another joyful day for U16 Slovenia in Tallinn - by Eurobasket News

U16 LUXEMBOURG - U16 SLOVENIA 43-66

Slovenia had another great game in Tallinn at U16 EuroBasket Division B. Slovenia celebrated 66-43 win against Luxembourg for 3-0 record in Group F of the Qualifying Round. It is already enough for the Quarterfinals, despite there are two more days in this phase. Luxembourg dropped to 0-3 and they are in difficult situation now. Slovenia had impressive second quarter to secure the victory in this meeting (9-8, 7-25, 13-19, 14-14). Sabina Ajkic (176-SG-96) and Larisa Ocvirk (184-F-97) (8 rebs) scored 13 and 12 pts respectively for the winners. Maja Jakobcic (184-PF-97) had 11 points and 6 rebs. In defeat, Lisa Jablonowski (186-C-97) collected 9 points and 8 rebs. Their second scorer was Jessy Goergen (173-PG-97) with 7 pts and Cathrin Wolff (179-C-96) added 6 pts, plus 12 boards. On Tuesday, Slovenia will play against Bulgaria. Luxembourg will meet also winless Belarus in crucial game. The winner will keep its Quarterfinals hopes alive.

Luxembourg: Lisa Jablonowski 9+8 boards, Jessy Goergen 7, Cathrin Wolff 6+12 boards
Slovenia: Sabina Ajkic 13, Larisa Ocvirk 12+8 boards, Maja Jakobcic 11+6 boards


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SPAIN

Spain hands first loss to France at U16 EuroBasket - by Eurobasket News

U16 SPAIN - U16 FRANCE 55-49

Spain was better than France on Monday 55-49 handing them first loss at U16 EuroBasket in Miskolc. After this victory, Spain joined France with 2-1 record in Qualifying Group F. Czech Republic and Italy have the same numbers in this pool. Spain opened the game better making plus 5 in the first ten minutes, but France intensified defense and stopped Spain to just 4 pts for the entire Q2. They drained 17 at the other side for plus 8 at the halftime, but Spain replied with 17-11 after the breather. Angela Salvadores (175-PG-97) and her teammates continued in the same rhythm after that creating 17-9 in the last ten minutes of the game, what was enough for very valuable 55-49 victory. Salvadores led Spain in scoring with 19 points. Laura Quevedo (193-F-96) had 11 points and 5 boards, while Nogaye Lo Sylla (96) added 8 points and 8 rebs. In France, Lisa Berkani (173-SG-97) and Alix Duchet (165-PG-97) scored 15 and 12 points respectively. Marie Milapie (191-C-96) followed with 7 pts and 6 rebs. On Tuesday, Spain will play against Croatia, while France will meet Holland.

Spain: Angela Salvadores 19, Laura Quevedo 11+5 boards, Nogaye Lo Sylla 8+8 boards
France: Lisa Berkani 15, Alix Duchet 12, Marie Milapie 7+6 boards


U16 Spain outplays U16 Croatia 65-50 in Miskolc - by Eurobasket News

U16 SPAIN - U16 CROATIA 65-50

Spain was too strong for Croatia today in Miskolc 65-50. Croatia made 9-13 in the first ten minutes of the game, but it was all from them. Spain took control on its rival for rest of the way to celebrate comfortable win (9-13, 18-8, 19-17, 19-12). Spain now has 3-1 record in the Qualifying Group F and already booked a ticket for the Quarterfinals. They will even fight for the first place in this pool. Croatia has 0-4 now and with no chance to advance. Elena Capella (171-G-96) scored 19 points in victory and Angela Salvadores (175-PG-97) added 15 points, plus 5 rebs. Helena Orts (184-F-96) posted 10 pts and 9 boards. In Croatia, Iva Slonjsak (181-SG-97) was way better than the others with 23 points and 7 rebounds. Their second scorer was Ivana Dojkic (176-SG-97) with 10 pts (6 rebs). Tomorrow, Spain will meet Czech Republic and Croatia will play against Holland.

Spain: Elena Capella 19, Angela Salvadores 15+5 boards, Helena Orts 10+9 boards
Croatia: Iva Slonjsak 23+7 boards, Ivana Dojkic 10+6 boards


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SWEDEN

Russia extends winning streak at U16 EuroBasket - by Eurobasket News

U16 SWEDEN - U16 RUSSIA 37-61

Russia already booked a ticket for the Quarterfinals of U16 EuroBasket in Miskolc. It was only the first round of the Qualifying Round, but Russia outplayed Sweden 61-37 and jumped to 3-0 in Group E, what is already enough for the next stage. Sweden dropped to 0-3 in this pool. Russia made 8-point lead in the first quarter and limited its rival to 6 pts in Q2, while scoring 21 at the other side. It means that Russia had plus 20 at the halftime and all after that was just the formality. Daria Kolosovskaya (181-SF-96) was their top-scorer with 14 points. Zhosselina Maiga (193-C-96) had 10 points and 6 rebounds, and Elizaveta Bratchikova (189-PF-96) added 8 pts and 10 boards. Andjela Hrnjez (185-C-96) answered with 8 points and 7 rebounds in loss, but with poor shot percentage for 2 and 3 pts. Elin Ljunggren (182-F-96) and Kajsa Carlsson (179-F-96) posted 6 pts apiece. In the next round, Russia will play against Hungary. Sweden's rival will be Slovakia.

Sweden: Andjela Hrnjez 8+7 boards, Elin Ljunggren 6, Kajsa Carlsson 6
Russia: Daria Kolosovskaya 14, Zhosselina Maiga 10+6 boards, Elizaveta Bratchikova 8+10 boards


U16 Slovakia books Quarterfinals ticket in Miskolc - by Eurobasket News

U16 SLOVAKIA - U16 SWEDEN 54-46

Slovakia handed 54-46 loss to Sweden today. Thanks to this victory Slovakia jumped to 2-2 record in Qualifying Group E and already booked a spot for the Quarterfinals (U16 EuroBasket. They currently share third place in this pool with Hungary. At the other side, Sweden dropped to 0-4 and they lost all chances to reach the next stage. Denisa Blanarova (184-F/C-97) led the winners with 12 points and Miroslava Mistinova (182-F-97) added 11 pts, plus 5 rebs. Veronika Remenarova (185-F-97) followed with double-double of 10 pts and 11 boards. In Sweden, Anna Lundqvist (176-G-96) answered with 10 pts and 11 rebs. Sigrid Sandstrom (177-G-96) stopped to 9 pts and 6 rebs in this defeat. Slovakia was up by 19 with ten minutes remaining in the game. Sweden drastically improved in Q4 (9-20), but it was too late for them. In the last day of the Qualifying Round, Slovakia will meet Hungary in crucial game for third place. Sweden will take on also winless Greece.

Slovakia: Denisa Blanarova 12, Miroslava Mistinova 11+5 boards, Veronika Remenarova 10+11 boards
Sweden: Anna Lundqvist 10+11 boards, Sigrid Sandstrom 9+6 boards


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TURKEY

U16 Turkey jumps to 2-0 in Group G - by Eurobasket News

U16 UNITED KINGDOM - U16 TURKEY 59-66

Turkey handed 66-59 loss to United Kingdom in Miskolc today. Thanks to this win Turkey jumped to 2-0 record in Group G. Teams in this group fight for the survival in Division A of U16 EuroBasket. UK faced with the second straight loss and now has 0-2. Turkey shined in the last ten minutes to take the victory in this game. Quarters: 14-20, 18-14, 16-15, 11-17. Their leading player was Selale Kepenc (186-SF-98) with 15 points and 7 boards. Melis Gulcan (180-G-96) scored 14 pts and Serife Onar (167-PG-96) had four less. In UK, Rhianna-Mae Laing (170-PG-97) and Leah McDerment (180-PG-96) (5 rebs) netted 14 and 12 pts respectively. Evelyn Adebayo (185-PF-96) had 9 points and 8 rebs. Tomorrow, Turkey will play against Serbia. UK will meet Germany.

United Kingdom: Rhianna-Mae Laing 14, Leah McDerment 12+5 boards, Evelyn Adebayo 9+8 boards
Turkey: Selale Kepenc 15+7 boards, Melis Gulcan 14, Serife Onar 10


Kepenc leads U16 Turkey to thriller win over U16 Germany in Miskolc - by Eurobasket News

U16 TURKEY - U16 GERMANY 59-56

Turkey made a first step toward survival in Division A of U16 EuroBasket. They handed 59-56 loss to Germany for 1-0 record in Group G. There are five more rounds to be played in this pool. Selale Kepenc (186-SF-98) led the winners with 14 points and 13 rebounds. Serife Onar (167-PG-96) scored 10 points and Melis Gulcan (180-G-96) added 9 pts, plus 11 rebs. Emma lina Stach (175-PG-96) had 20 points and 7 rebounds in defeat. Patricia Brossmann (180-SF-97) added 12 points and 11 rebounds, while Nele Aha (171-PG-96) and Jennifer Crowder (164-G-96) posted 8 pts each. Teams were tied at 55-55 with 45 seconds remaining in the game. Kepenc made a lay-up for Turkey and Stach missed a jump shot at the other side. Gulcan missed two free throws for Turkey and Brossmann split them for Germany. Gulcan and Crowder exchanged turnovers and Kepenc closed this game with two free throws for 59-56 Turkey win.

Turkey: Selale Kepenc 14+13 boards, Serife Onar 10, Melis Gulcan 9+11 boards
Germany: Emma lina Stach 20+7 boards, Patricia Brossmann 12+11 boards, Nele Aha 8, Jennifer Crowder 8


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UKRAINE

U16 Ukraine downs U16 Lithuania in Tallinn, 65-58 - by Eurobasket News

U16 UKRAINE - U16 LITHUANIA 65-58

Ukraine did a great job against Lithuania in the first game of the Qualifying Round in Tallinn (U16 EuroBasket Division B). They celebrated 65-58 victory for 1-2 record in Group E making the big step towards Quarterfinals. Lithuania slipped to 2-1 after this loss and now shares the second place with Portugal. Vita Gorobets (180-SG-96) stepped up for the winners with 22 points and 9 rebounds. Iryna Zhmurko (184-F-96) secured a nice help with 11 points and 10 rebounds, while Anastasiya Polovynka (176-G-96) added 9 points and 10 boards. In defeat, Agne Cerneckyte (171-SG-96) collected 22 points and 5 rebs. Laura Juskaite (187-PF-97) had 11 pts and 12 boards, while Daugile Sarauskaite (196-C-96) added 10 points and 8 rebs. Lithuania had 56-57 lead with 4:33 minutes remaining, but than Ukraine made impressive 9-1 run to close this game. Quarters: 21-20, 13-9, 16-15, 15-14. On Tuesday, Ukraine will play against winless Denmark. Lithuanias rival will be Portugal.

Ukraine: Vita Gorobets 22+9 boards, Iryna Zhmurko 11+10 boards, Anastasiya Polovynka 9+10 boards
Lithuania: Agne Cerneckyte 22+5 boards, Laura Juskaite 11+12 boards, Daugile Sarauskaite 10+8 boards


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UNITED KINGDOM

Serbia destroys UK at U16 EuroBasket, Group G - by Eurobasket News

U16 SERBIA - U16 UNITED KINGDOM 71-39

Serbia had no mercy for United Kingdom 71-39 in the first game of U16 EuroBasket - Group G. Teams in this pool fight for the survival in Division A. Serbia took control on its rival from the beginning and never looked back. Quarters: 22-9, 24-10, 14-10, 11-10. Snezana Bogicevic (176-PG-97) led Serbia in scoring with 13 points. Aleksandra Crvendakic (188-F/C-96) had double-double of 11 points and 11 rebounds, and Zeljka Petkovic (188-C-96) helped with 9 pts. In UK, Shanice Norton (170-SG-97) answered with 14 points and 9 rebounds. Evelyn Adebayo (185-PF-96) (6 rebs) and Leah McDerment (180-PG-96) stopped to 6 pts each. In the next round, Serbia will meet Germany. UK will play against Turkey.

Serbia: Snezana Bogicevic 13, Aleksandra Crvendakic 11+11 boards, Zeljka Petkovic 9
United Kingdom: Shanice Norton 14+9 boards, Evelyn Adebayo 6+6 boards, Leah McDerment 6


U16 Turkey jumps to 2-0 in Group G - by Eurobasket News

U16 UNITED KINGDOM - U16 TURKEY 59-66

Turkey handed 66-59 loss to United Kingdom in Miskolc today. Thanks to this win Turkey jumped to 2-0 record in Group G. Teams in this group fight for the survival in Division A of U16 EuroBasket. UK faced with the second straight loss and now has 0-2. Turkey shined in the last ten minutes to take the victory in this game. Quarters: 14-20, 18-14, 16-15, 11-17. Their leading player was Selale Kepenc (186-SF-98) with 15 points and 7 boards. Melis Gulcan (180-G-96) scored 14 pts and Serife Onar (167-PG-96) had four less. In UK, Rhianna-Mae Laing (170-PG-97) and Leah McDerment (180-PG-96) (5 rebs) netted 14 and 12 pts respectively. Evelyn Adebayo (185-PF-96) had 9 points and 8 rebs. Tomorrow, Turkey will play against Serbia. UK will meet Germany.

United Kingdom: Rhianna-Mae Laing 14, Leah McDerment 12+5 boards, Evelyn Adebayo 9+8 boards
Turkey: Selale Kepenc 15+7 boards, Melis Gulcan 14, Serife Onar 10


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WNBA

Nneka Ogwumike named WNBA Rookie of the Month for May - by Eurobasket News

The WNBA named Los Angeles Sparks forward Nnemkadi Ogwumike (6'2''-F-90, college: Stanford) the Rookie of the Month for games played in May.

Ogwumike led all rookies in scoring (13.8 ppg), field goal percentage (.595) and blocks (1.4 bpg), and ranked second in rebounds (5.8 rpg) and minutes (24.6 mpg). Overall, Ogwumike placed second for total number of blocks (7) and fifth in field goal percentage in the league. She scored a career-high 22 points on 9-for-15 shooting, to go with seven rebounds and three assists in a win over Phoenix on May 26. Ogwumike also had a career-best nine rebounds to go with 20 points on May 24 in a loss to the defending champion Minnesota Lynx.

The first overall pick in the 2012 WNBA Draft presented by Boost Mobile, Ogwumike made a strong professional debut following an exceptional career at the University of Stanford. In five games, Ogwumike scored in double digits three times, helping the 4-1 Sparks to the second-best record in the West.

Highlights of Ogwumikes month included:
May 24 vs. Minnesota: Career-high nine rebounds and 20 points on 7-for-10 shooting in a 92-84 loss
May 26 vs. Phoenix: Career-highs in points (22), minutes (35) and assists (3) in a 99-88 win
May 29 vs. Tulsa: Career-high three blocks along with 14 points and 7 rebounds in a 76-75 win

About the WNBA
The WNBA which features 12 teams and is the most successful womens professional team sports league in the world is a unique global sports property combining competition, sportsmanship, and entertainment value with its status as an icon for social change, achievement, and diversity. A fifth consecutive year of attendance growth, the highest ESPN2 viewership since 2005, increased viewership during the WNBA Finals, and the signing of a landmark multiyear deal with Boost Mobile as the first leaguewide marquee partner highlighted the WNBAs 2011 regular season. The leagues 16th season tipped off May 18.

Through its Inspiring Women platform, the WNBA celebrates accomplishments in all disciplines. Through WNBA Cares, the leagues community outreach initiative, the WNBA addresses important social issues, including health and wellness, education, and youth and family development. The WNBA and its teams support a range of programs, partners, and initiatives that strive to impact children and families worldwide. For more information on the WNBA, log on to www.wnba.com.

Courtesy of WNBA


Charles and Parker named Players of the Week in WNBA - by Eurobasket News

Tina Charles (6'4''-C-88, agency: LBM Management, college: Connecticut) of the Connecticut Sun and Candace Parker (6'4''-F/C-86, college: Tennessee) of the Los Angeles Sparks were named the WNBA's Eastern and Western Conference Players of the Week for the period ending July 15.

Charles, who ranks in the top three in rebounds (11.3 per game) and double- doubles (12), won the award for the eighth time in her career and the third time this season.

The University of Connecticut product led the Sun to three wins last week and was fourth in the conference with 19.3 points per game and led it with 9.3 rebounds per game.

The 2008 MVP Parker won her ninth career Player of the Week award and fourth this season.

Parker led the Sparks to two wins last week and was second in the West in scoring (20.5 per game), rebounding (10.5 per game) and led the conference in blocks (3.5 per game).

Other candidates for the Player of the Week were Atlanta's Sancho Lyttle, Indiana's Tamika Catchings and Chicago's Eshaya Murphy in the East and Minnesota's Maya Moore and San Antonio's Jia Perkins in the West.

Courtesy of www.canada.com


Connecticut's Charles and Los Angeles' Parker named Players of the Month - by Eurobasket News

Tina Charles (6'4''-C-88, agency: LBM Management, college: Connecticut) of the Connecticut Sun and Candace Parker (6'4''-F/C-86, college: Tennessee) of the of the Los Angeles Sparks, were named the WNBA's Eastern and Western Conference Players of the Month presented by Boost Mobile, respectively, for games played during June.

This marks the first season that Boost Mobile "" the leaguewide marquee partner of the WNBA "" has presented the WNBA Eastern and Western Conference Players of the Month awards.

In leading the Sun to a 7-3 record, Charles paced the conference in blocks (1.5 bpg), was second in rebounds (11.5 rpg), and fourth in scoring (17.9 ppg). Charles recorded a double-double in six of 10 contests, scoring at least 20 points five times.

Highlights of Charles' month included:

- With eight rebounds vs. Indiana on June 19, became the fastest player in league history to reach 900 career boards, doing so in her 79th game to surpass the mark of 83 games set by Yolanda Griffith.

- Recorded 23 points, pulled down 22 rebounds, and hit a pair of free throws with 3.1 seconds left to give the Sun its first lead of the game in a in a 75-73 win at Atlanta on June 17. In the process, became the first player in WNBA history to log three 20-20 games in a career.

- Scored 30 points, the second-highest total of her career, in a 94-86 win over Washington June 3.

- Tallied 20 points and 12 rebounds in loss to the defending champion Minnesota Lynx June 1.

- Led Connecticut past Atlanta, 92-73, with a 22-point, 11-rebound effort June 10.

Parker, who also earned Western Conference Player of the Month presented by Boost Mobile honors in May, helped the Sparks to a 6-5 mark in June while leading the conference in rebounds (10.2 rpg) and blocks (2.7 bpg), and ranking second in scoring (18.8 ppg). Twice in June Parker was named the Western Conference Player of the Week presented by Boost Mobile as she notched six double-doubles in 10 contests.

Highlights of Parker's month included:

- Game highs of 33 points, 16 rebounds (including 13 defensive boards), eight assists, and five blocks while contributing three steals in an 87-81 road win over Connecticut June 13.

- Tallied 33 points, nine blocks, and eight rebounds in a 95-79 victory over Tulsa June 20. Became third player in WNBA history to post nine or more blocks (the late Margo Dydek and Lisa Leslie each recorded a 10-block game, and Dydek swatted away nine shots three other times).

- Recorded 25 points, 13 rebounds, and four assists in a 94-80 defeat at the hands of the San Antonio Silver Stars June 28.

- Posted a 23-point, 10-rebound effort in a 90-74 victory over Phoenix June 8.

The WNBA Eastern and Western Conference Players of the Month presented by Boost Mobile are part of a series of on-court performance awards called the WNBA Performance Awards presented by Boost Mobile. The series, currently in its first season, also includes the WNBA Players of the Week presented by Boost Mobile and four of the WNBA's most prestigious year-end honors: WNBA Most Valuable Player presented by Boost Mobile, WNBA Defensive Player of the Year presented by Boost Mobile, WNBA Sixth Woman presented by Boost Mobile, and WNBA Most Improved Player presented by Boost Mobile.

For more information on this week's Players of the Month presented by Boost Mobile winners, visit www.wnba.com/awards.


2012 WNBA PLAYERS OF THE MONTH PRESENTED BY BOOST MOBILE WINNERS

Month East Player Team West Player Team

May 2012 Sylvia Fowles Chicago Candace Parker Los Angeles

June 2012 Tina Charles Connecticut Candace Parker Los Angeles

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com