EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 7/20/2012 1:04:01 AM

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Men News

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



Celtics express interest in Delfino - by Eurobasket News

In search of depth at the shooting guard position after Ray Allen's departure to the Heat, the Celtics have shown interest in Bucks swingman Carlos Delfino (6'6''-G-82) and remain in the hunt for Mickael Pietrus, according to a Comcast report.

Following surgeries on both shoulders, Avery Bradley is doubtful to be ready for the start of the season, leaving newly signed free agent Jason Terry and second-year summer league star E'Twaun Moore, whose contract remains non-guaranteed pending a decision by the C's this week, as the only two-guard options on the roster.

The 29-year-old Delfino averaged 9.0 points (40.2 FG%, 36.0 3P%, 79.2 FT%), 3.9 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.5 steals in Milwaukee. In seven NBA seasons, including stops in Detroit and Toronto, he has averaged 7.7 points (40.0 FG%, 36.2 3P%, 74.9 FT%), 3.6 rebounds, 1.7 assists and 0.9 steals. Delfino required sports hernia surgery in early May but reportedly plans to play for his native Argentina in the Olympics.

Pietrus, of course, averaged 6.9 points (38.5 FG%, 33.5 3P%, 64.5 FT%) and 3.1 rebounds over 42 games for the Celtics this past season. He had arthroscopic surgery after their playoff run on the same right knee that required surgery after his previous season as a member of the Suns.

Courtesy of www.weei.com


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  AUSTRIA   


U20 European Championship: Austria conquer Group G - by Eurobasket News

Netherlands U20-Austria U20 61:64

Austria conquer Group G of the Classification Round for 9-18 places at the U20 European Championship in Division B. The Austrian side won over Netherlands 64:61 for 3-0 record. Netherlands suffered the first loss and fell at 2-1 record.
Both teams struggled for the victory that ensured the top place in the group. Both of then scored 16 points each in the first period and only after that Austria needed 14-9 surge to win the half 30:25. Moreover Zulic and Maximilian Hopfgartner (206-PF-92) increased the lead at 10 points and Daniel Friedrich (182-PG-92) scored for 41:33. Netherlands however was too late to give up and grabbed 46:45 advantage early in the last period. Bart Stolk (206-C-93) scored for 53:50 and Aarts added two for 55:52. Austria meanwhile responded with 11-0 run and took 63:55. No matter how hard the Dutch team tried to recover they could not win the game.
Maximilian Hopfgartner paced all the winners with 23 points and Daniel Friedrich added 13. Bart Stolk finished the game with 22 points, while Ivan Filipan (193-G/F-92) scored 14 in defeat.

Netherlands U20: Bart Stolk 22, Ivan Filipan 14
Austria U20: Maximilian Hopfgartner 23, Daniel Friedrich 13


U16 European Championship: Switzerland rally past Austria - by Eurobasket News

Switzerland U16 - Austria U16 72:57

Switzerland opened win count at U20 European Championship in Division B. They fired past Austria in Group D. Anthony Polite (190-SF-97) came up with 16 points and 12 rebounds to pace the winners.
Switzerland stunned their opponents early in the game. They went on a 21:6 run. The Swiss team extended the lead in the second quarter. They piled up a 41:21 halftime advantage. Switzerland boosted the lead in the third quarter. They arrived at the final intermission up by 23 points 58:35. Austria outscored their opponents in the fourth frame but just sweetened the pill at the end. Owandji Otoka (185-SF-96) netted 15 points, while Luka Mandic (195-F-96) and Mattia Cafisi (181-PG-97) had 8 points each for the winners. Marvin Ogunsipe (193-F-96) replied with 19 points for Austria. Florian Keller (188-F-96) finished with 9 points in the loss.

Switzerland U16: Anthony Polite 16+12 boards, Owandji Otoka 15, Luka Mandic 8, Mattia Cafisi 8
Austria U16: Marvin Ogunsipe 19, Florian Keller 9


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  BELARUS   


U16 European Championship: Belarus open with win - by Eurobasket News

Belarus U16 - Luxembourg U16 67:63

Belarus celebrated the first win at the U16 European Championship. They held off Luxembourg in Group A opener. Maksim Salash (203-C-96) scored 20 points and grabbed 17 rebounds to lead the winners.
Belarus had to deal with a big deficit after a sloppy start. Luxembourg earned a 27:17 lead ten minutes into the encounter. Belarus cut the deficit in the second quarter. They trailed by 9 points at halftime 44:35. The Belarusian team limited their opponents to 9 points in the third term and narrowed the gap at 4-point mark at the final intermission. Belarus went on a 10:0 run late in regulation and sealed the starting victory. Roman Rubinshteyn (190-PG-96) delivered 16 points for Belarus. Uladzislau Kandybovic (190-G-96) had 8 points and 8 rebounds in the win. Oliver Vujakovic (192-F-96) answered with 19 points and 9 rebounds for Luxembourg. Timothy Kauffmann (191-F-96) provided 15 points and 10 rebounds in the losing effort.

Belarus U16: Maksim Salash 20+17 boards, Roman Rubinshteyn 16, Uladzislau Kandybovic 8
Luxembourg U16: Oliver Vujakovic 19, Timothy Kauffmann 15+10 boards


Aerosvit Cup-2012: Belarus clinched the third place - by Eurobasket News

Romania-Belarus 62:84

Belarus clinched the third place at the Aerosvit Cup-2012 in Ukraine. The team won over Romania 84:62 and finished with 1-2 record. Romanian meanwhile finished the tournament on the fourth place with no victories.
Both teams entered the game without victories and desired to finish the tournament at least with the initial win. Belarus grabbed 20:13 lead and never looked behind after. They added 26-13 in the second frame and enjoyed 46:26 lead at the halftime. Romania answered with 21-20 in the third quarter but failed with 15-18 in the last stanza.
Aliaksandr Pustahvar (201-F-85, agency: RU-Basket Management) paced all the winners with 17 points, while Heorhi Kandrusevich (198-F-78, agency: New Trend Agency) notched 14. Mikita Meshcharakou (202-F-88) ended up with 11, whilst Mikalai Aliakseyeu and Yahor Meshcharakou (205-F-76, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav, college: G.Washington) had 10 each. Mihail-Octavian Paul (191-G-82) delivered 11 points in the losing effort. Titus Nicoara (203-F-88, agency: Interperformances), Mihai Silvasan (201-F-85, agency: Court Side) and Ionut Dragusin (221-C-85) each scored 9 points.
Israel beat Ukraine in the game for the top place to win Aerosvit Cup-2012.

Romania: Mihail-Octavian Paul 11, Titus Nicoara 9, Mihai Silvasan 9, Ionut Dragusin 9
Belarus: Aliaksandr Pustahvar 17, Heorhi Kandrusevich 14, Mikita Meshcharakou 11, Mikalai Aliakseyeu 10, Yahor Meshcharakou 10


U20 European Championship: Belarus pip Switzerland in Sofia - by Eurobasket News

Switzerland U20-Belarus U20 78:89

Belarus pip Switzerland in Sofia at the U20 European Championship in Division B. The winning team improved to 2-2 record after 89:78 victory. The Swiss team fell at 1-2 record in Group H.
Belarus started with 31:15 and never looked behind after. They added 30-25 in the second frame as Yauheni Suhaniaka (200-F-92) closed the half at 61:40. Zakhar and Vitali Liutych (198-SG-92) opened the third quarter for 64:40, while Vitali Liutych delivered two fro 71:44. Milos Bozovic (201-F-92) and Yauheni Suhaniaka closed the third period at 78:57. Switzerland meanwhile won the last stanza 21-11 to reduce the gap to 11 points.
Vitali Liutych top-scored for the winners with 33 points. Robertas Ruzgaitis (198-F-93) followed him with 20, while Yauheni Suhaniaka added 13. Brian Savoy (192-SG-92) and Evrard Atcho (207-C/F-92) ended up with 17 points each in the losing effort. Milos Bozovic scored 13, while Marko Mladjan (206-F-93) had 11.

Switzerland U20: Brian Savoy 17, Evrard Atcho 17, Milos Bozovic 13, Marko Mladjan 11
Belarus U20: Vitali Liutych 33, Robertas Ruzgaitis 20, Yauheni Suhaniaka 13


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  BELGIUM   

D3 Standings

D3 Standings
Group A
 1. Tongeren 23-3 
 2. Houthalen 20-6 
 3. Ninane 18-8 
 4. Giants II 16-10 
 5. Soba 15-11 
 6. BBC Willebroek 15-11 
 7. Ekeren 15-11 
 8. Turuka Willeb. 14-12 
 9. Lommel 12-14 
 10. Verviers-P. II 11-15 
 11. Neufchateau 7-19 
 12. Esneux 6-20 
 13. Haneffe 5-21 
 14. Geel 5-21 
Group B
 1. Oudenaarde 21-5 
 2. De Pinte 20-6 
 3. Oostkamp 17-9 
 4. Erembodegem 16-10 
 5. TMCI Wevelgem 16-10 
 6. Nivelles 15-11 
 7. Carnieres 14-12 
 8. Vilvoorde 12-14 
 9. Natoye 11-15 
 10. Ieper 10-16 
 11. Lambusart 9-17 
 12. Kortrijk 9-17 
 13. Enghien 6-20 
 14. Quaregnon 6-20 


Belgian U16 National Team 2012 - by Eurobasket

#s#
Mathieu Houdart
Houdart
Raphael Dubois
Dubois
Jens Clement
Clement
Gil Vanthournout
Vanthournout
Rochdi Benzouien
Benzouien
#e#5
4 Mathieu Houdart 194-F-96
5 Ordane Kanda-Kanyinda 96
6 Raphael Dubois 192-F-96
7 Jens Clement 187-G-96
8 Gil Vanthournout 182-G-96
9 Rochdi Benzouien 180-PG-96
10 Rayan Kayembe-Milongo 96
11 Sami Demirtas 189-G-96
12 Romain Boxus 194-F-96
13 Justin Kohajda 203-C-96
14 William Robeyns 191-F-96
15 Simon Chapelle 196-C-96

Vincent Bouffioux Head Coach Carnieres Belgium
Peter Pas Assistant



U16 European Championship: Denmark start EC campaign with the win - by Eurobasket News

Belgium U16-Denmark U16 61:66

Denmark start EC campaign with the win over Belgium in Division B. The Danish side overcame the opponents 66:61 at the U16 European Championship in Group B.
The teams exchanged the lead several times in the opening period as Belgium took 18:17 advantage after it. Denmark played better in the second quarter and led for the majority of the half. Jacob Larsen (204-PF-97) scored for 26:20 and Benzon brought 31:27. The latter also sent the teams to the lockers at 37:32. In the third quarter Denmark added 19-10 and enjoyed 56:42 after three quarters when Jacob Larsen made a jump shot. Belgium did not give up and after 19-10 managed to reduce to final 5 points.
Jacob Larsen stepped up with 16 points for the first victory at the tournament. Johannes Nielsen (203-PF-96) followed him with 13, while Jakob Ravn (193-G-96) added 11. Romain Boxus (194-F-96) ended up with 15 points in the losing effort and Sami Demirtas (189-G-96) posted 13. Ordane Kanda-Kanyinda (96) scored 9, whilst Justin Kohajda (203-C-96) collected 8 points and 11 rebounds.

Belgium U16: Romain Boxus 15, Sami Demirtas 13, Ordane Kanda-Kanyinda 9, Justin Kohajda 8+11 rebs
Denmark U16: Jacob Larsen 16, Johannes Nielsen 13, Jakob Ravn 11


CUVA Houthalen sign Jason Westrol - by Eurobasket Center

CUVA Houthalen (Division II) signed 24-year old American guard Jason Westrol (191-G-88, college: Bentley). Westrol played most recently at CSU Asesoft Ploiesti (Romania). He helped them to win Romanian Cup, then regular season and make it to the league final. Westrol graduated Bentley College in 2010 and actually missed last season. It will be his third season in pro basketball. He played last season in 2 games in EuroChallenge Qualifying Round (15.0ppg, 2.5rpg, 2.5spg) and his stats in Romanian League are: 39 games: 10.9ppg, 3.1rpg, 2.4apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 56.5%, 3PT: 29.8%, FT: 71.4%

By Eurobasket Data Center


U20 European Championship: Israel grab the last ticket to Final Four - by Eurobasket News

Belgium U20-Israel U20 66:69

Israel grab the last ticket to Final Four of the U20 European Championship in Division B. The team overcame Belgium 69:66 in a thriller to take 2-1 record in Group E.
It was the game for the last ticket from Group E to the semifinal. Both teams started strong, but Belgium took 22:11 after the first 10 minutes. Moreover they added 20-15 in the second frame and enjoyed 16-point advantage at the halftime. Belgium made everything they could to win the game but reduce to 3 final points. They won the third quarter 19-13 and added 21-14 in the last stanza. Elias Lasisi (192-G/F-92) gave them 66:64 lead, but Or Solomon (197-F-93) and Bar Timor (191-PG-92, agency: Avi Zilberman) brought the victory for the opponents.
Bar Timor top-scored for the winners with 20 points and Or Solomon nailed 16. Oz Blayzer (199-F-92) collected 14 points and 14 rebounds, while Shawn Dawson (193-SF-93) added 10. Elias Lasisi erupted with 34 points in the losing effort as Belgium finished with 1-2 record on the last place in the group. Khalid Boukichou (208-C-92) had 12 points and 10 rebounds, whilst Obasohan Ojomoh (183-PG-93) scored 11.

Belgium U20: Elias Lasisi 34, Khalid Boukichou 12+10 rebs, Obasohan Ojomoh 11
Israel U20: Bar Timor 20, Or Solomon 16, Oz Blayzer 14+14 rebs, Shawn Dawson 10


Transfer Mons-Hainaut - by Peter Buyse

Belgius Mons-Hainaut has announced the signing of American center Brian Qvale (210-C-88, college: Montana) for the next season.
Qvale comes to Belgium after one season in Turkey. There he played for Aliaga Petkim. In 32 games there he averaged 19 mpg, 8.9 ppg and 4.4 rpg.
He finished his college career at Montana with the 2010-2011 season. He led the team in scoring with 14.9 ppg and was the Big Sky leading rebounder with 8.8 rpg and top shotblocker with 3.0 bpg. All this was reason enough for the Big Sky conference to make him their Defensive Player of the Year. He also earned Big Sky 1st team honors as well as All Tournement team.
After his senior year in highschool he was voted North Dakota Mr Basketball.


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  BOSNIA   


U16 European Championship: The Baltic State grab thrilling win over Bosnia - by Eurobasket News

Bosnia and Herzegovina U16-Estonia U16 82:83

The Baltic State grab thrilling win over Bosnia at the U16 European Championship in Division B. Estonia grabbed 83:82 after a great comeback.
Bosnia and Herzegovina erupted with 31:14 in the first period but could not win the game. Estonia replied with a 7-0 run in the start of the second frame and Ken Lill (188-G-96) reduced to 31:21. Moreover Lelle scored for 37:32 and Norman Kabin (170-PG-97) closed the half at 42:37. Kristofer Kurvits (192-G/F-96) gave Estonia 44:43 lead, while Jaagup Russak (179-G-96) increased to 8 points. Estonia dominated the quarter and had 68:56 after three quarters. The picture however had changed again in the court as Bosnia pulled back to cut the gap. They tried hard to recover but managed to reduce to just one point as Aleksic scored with a buzzer.
Jaagup Russak top-scored for the winners with 18 points and Kristofer Kurvits added 17. Norman Kabin notched 14, while Ken Lill chipped in with 9. Faris Smajlovic (199-F/C-96) finished the game with 20 points in the losing effort. Amar Balic (178-PG-96) had 14, whilst Mirsad Pilavdzic (195-SG-96) delivered 10.

Bosnia and Herzegovina U16: Faris Smajlovic 20, Amar Balic 14, Mirsad Pilavdzic 10
Estonia U16: Jaagup Russak 18, Kristofer Kurvits 17, Norman Kabin 14, Ken Lill 9


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  BULGARIA   


Mohammed Abukar pens deal with Lukoil Academic - by Eurobasket News

Mohammed Abukar (208-F-85, agency: Two Points, college: San Diego St.) pens deal with Lukoil Academic for 2012/2013 season. According to sportando.net Mohamed Abukar signed a contract with Bulgarian team Lukoil Academic.
Mohammed Abukar arrives from BC Lugano Tigers. The American player spent 3 season with the team. He was named Eurobasket.com All-Swiss LNA Player of the Year -12, Eurobasket.com All-Swiss LNA Forward of the Year -12 and Eurobasket.com All-Swiss LNA Import Player of the Year -12.
The American player started his career in 2003-2004 in Florida (NCAA). He debuted in 30 games of the season and had 2.7ppg, 2.1rpg, 2.1ast. In 2005-2006 Abukar moved to San Diego St. (NCAA) and appeared there in 22 games. He improved his stats to 14.3ppg, 4.7rpg, 1.0apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 48.8%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 81.4%. After anther season there he moved to Europe and played for Tisettanta Cantu in Italy-SerieA. In 10 games he showed 6.6ppg, 2.4rpg, 2FGP:39.1%, 3PT:26.7% and then in December moved to MyGuide Amsterdam (Holland-Eredivisie). In 21 games he averaged there 10.6ppg, 3.0rpg, FGP: 48.7%, 3PT: 36.6%, FT: 76.8%. In 2008-2009 Austin Toros (D-League) saw 16 games from Mohammed Abukar as he showed 9.1ppg, 2.8rpg, FGP: 44.3%, 3PT: 45.2%, FT: 75.0%. In April 2009 Mohammed moved to BC Lugano Tigers in Switzerland-LNA and appeared in 7 games.


U20 European Championship: Sofia sent the hosts to the Semifinals - by Eurobasket News

Poland U20-Bulgaria U20 70:78

Sofia sent the hosts to the Semifinals of the U20 European Championship in Division B. Bulgaria overcame the Polish players 78:70 and sent them out of Top Four.
It was a tough game and could send only one team to the Semifinal. Although two of them deserved a spot there, Bulgaria managed to grab the victory. They started with 22-21, but the game was tied at the halftime. In the second half Bulgaria produced two victories. They won the third quarter 18-15 and finished the game with 21-16 in the last stanza.
Pavlin Ivanov (195-G-93, agency: Beo Basket) paced all the winners with 35 points, while Angel Natskin (182-PG-93) netted 11. Dimitar Dimitrov (202-F-93, agency: Interperformances) delivered 10 and Georgi Boyanov (200-F-93) scored 9. Mateusz Ponitka (196-G-93) and Tomasz Gielo (205-F-93) scored 20 points each in defeat and the latter also added 12 rebounds. Piotr Niedzwiedzki (210-F-93) followed them with 8 points in a loss.

Poland U20: Mateusz Ponitka 20, Tomasz Gielo 20+12 rebs, Piotr Niedzwiedzki 8
Bulgaria U20: Pavlin Ivanov 35, Angel Natskin 11, Dimitar Dimitrov 10, Georgi Boyanov 9


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  CANADA   


Halifax Rainmen's search for new head coach is on - by Eurobasket News

The Halifax Rainmen are in search of a new head coach.

Although there's still a slight chance Josep Claros could be back for a second season, Rainmen owner Andre Levingston said Tuesday its more much more likely the native of Barcelona, Spain, will take a year off to spend time with his family.

Levingston said he plans to have a head coach in place by the first week of August so he can prepare for the National Basketball League of Canada tryout combine on Aug. 25 and 26 and the draft on Aug. 27.

'I have to move forward, Levingston told Metro. I talked to (Claros) about it and told him I cant wait forever because I need a coach in place for the combine. I'm moving forward with an interview process so Im prepared (to hire somebody) and not behind the eight-ball if he decides not to come back.'

Claros, a veteran coach with an impressive international resume, guided the team to a second-place NBL Canada finish last season, going 23-13. He took the Rainmen to the leagues inaugural final before the London Lightning eliminated them in a highlight-packed five-game series.

Claros, who has two young children including one less than a year old, left immediately after the season ended and coached Pioneros de Quintana Roo to a FIBA Americas League championship.

If I was a betting man, I would say that Pep will not be returning, Levingston said.

Levingston said replacing Claros will be difficult.

Youre looking for somebody who, first and foremost, is knowledgeable and passionate about the game, but also has the ability to get every ounce out of every player, Levingston said. Pep was able to do that.

The Rainmen havent signed anybody for the 2012-13 season but have protected five players: guards Joey Haywood, Taliek Brown and Chris Hagan and forwards Tyrone Levett and Darnell Hugee.

Although it wont be easy, Levingston hopes to re-sign all of them and build around them with an infusion of fresh blood.

Ive really spent a lot of time scouting this summer, Levingston said. Now, Im going to start looking for a new head coach who can help us to get to that next level and win a championship.

Courtesy of http://metronews.ca


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  CROATIA   


U16 European Championship: Italy pip Croatia in the opener - by Eurobasket News

Italy U16- Croatia U16 77:63

Italy pip Croatia in the opener of the U16 European Championship. The Italian team started the campaign with 77:63 victory in Ventspils.
It was Croatia that started with 23-13 in the first period. They could not however keep the lead and lost the game. Italy needed the whole second quarter to tie the game at 34:34. Croatia took the lead again in the third period and grabbed 40:34. Italy meanwhile needed a strong end of the period for 50:49 lead at the end of the quarter. Italy added massive 27-14 in the last stanza to seal the victory.
Pierfrancesco Oliva (200-SF-96) top-scored for the winners with 27 points and 13 rebounds. Daniel Donzelli (199-SG-96) collected 17 points and 12 boards, while Federico Mussini (179-PG-96) scored 10. Marko Arapovic (207-C/F-96) collected 22 points and 10 rebounds in the losing effort and Luka Bozic (188-PG-96) had 13. Roko Dominovic (189-PG-96) delivered 10 and Emir Sabic (186-PG-96) nailed 6.

Italy U16: Pierfrancesco Oliva 27+13 rebs, Daniel Donzelli 17+12 rebs, Federico Mussini 10
Croatia U16: Marko Arapovic 22+10 rebs, Luka Bozic 13, Roko Dominovic 10, Emir Sabic 6


U20 European Championship: Croatia destroy Finland for the Semifinal ticket - by Eurobasket News

Finland U20-Croatia U20 69:94

Croatia destroy Finland for the Semifinal ticket at the U20 European Championship in Division B. Croatia needed 94:69 win to take 1-2 record as well as two other teams including Finland. Due to the better difference, Croatia managed to climb higher than Finland and Great Britain.
Croatia needed a big win and started with 23:7. They enjoyed 16-point lead at the halftime and added 28-17 in the third period. Finland won the last stanza 26-24 but it was not enough to advance to the semis.
Stipe Krstanovic (204-F/C-93) top-scored for the winners with 20 points and Henrik Sirko (198-F-93) added 17. Roko Rogic (187-PG-92) and Domagoj Vukovic (206-C-93) followed them with 14 points, whilst Bruno Markulin (192-SF-92) scored 12. Aleksi Akpaso (192-SG-92) finished the game with 16 points and Joonas Caven (211-C/F-93) posted 14. Alex Vaenerberg (183-G-92) notched 11, while Villematti Kopio (182-PG-92) delivered 10.

Finland U20: Aleksi Akpaso 16, Joonas Caven 14, Alex Vaenerberg 11, Villematti Kopio 10
Croatia U20: Stipe Krstanovic 20, Henrik Sirko 17, Roko Rogic 14, Domagoj Vukovic 14, Bruno Markulin 12


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


U20 European Championship: Czech Republic heads to the semis - by Eurobasket News

Czech Republic U20 - Great Britain U20 91:75

Czech Republic heads to the semis of the U20 European Championship in Division B. The team added another win at the tournament edging Great Britain 91:75 and sending them out of the Top 4.
Czech Republic continued the streak and proved the ambitions for Division A. They started with 24-19 in the first period and had 5-point lead at the half-time. The third quarter was decisive in the game and brought 29-16 in the third period. Great Britain managed to win the last stanza 19-21 and finished third in the group.
Jaromir Bohacik (197-G/F-92) top-scored for the winners with 24 points, while Martin Kriz (202-F-93) collected 21 points and 10 rebounds. Michal Sotnar (189-PG-92) nailed 12 and Dalibor Fait (203-F/C-93) as well as Vaclav Honomichl (189-G-92) added 9 each. Devon Van Oostrum (190-G-93) ended up with 20 points in the losing effort, whilst Grant Fiorentinos (208-F/C-92) had 18. Joe Hart (194-G/F-93) scored 13 and Onyejebolise Chuku (196-F-93) delivered 10.

Czech Republic U20: Jaromir Bohacik 24, Martin Kriz 21+10 rebs, Michal Sotnar 12, Dalibor Fait 9, Vaclav Honomichl 9
Great Britain U20: Devon Van Oostrum 20, Grant Fiorentinos 18, Joe Hart 13, Onyejebolise Chuku 10


U16 European Championship: France wins defensive battle - by Eurobasket News

Czech Republic U16-France U16 33:60

France wins defensive battle to complete day one action in Panevezys at the U16 European Championship Men. The French side celebrated a 60:33 win over Czech Republic.
Czech Republic scored the first four points in the game and led 8:7. Later on France took the control of the quarter and won the first period 15:10. Czech Republic was too far to give up an Hanzlik brought 20:19 lead. Michel meanwhile made two free throws at the end of the half for 26:23 advantage. Cyrille Eliezer-Vanerot (194-F-96) nailed three for 34:25 and Dussoulier posted two free throws for 40:30. Etienne Ory (175-PG-96) later closed the quarter at 47:30 as France had 21-7 surge in the third period. They added 13-3 in the last stanza to seal the victory.
Etienne Ory, Stephane Gombauld (200-PF-97) and Cyrille Eliezer-Vanerot top-scored for the winners with 10 points each. Matej Svoboda (200-PF-96) scored the same number of points in the losing effort and Simon Pursl (200-C-97) added 8.

Czech Republic U16: Matej Svoboda 10, Simon Pursl 8
France U16: Etienne Ory 10, Stephane Gombauld 10, Cyrille Eliezer-Vanerot 10


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


U16 European Championship: Denmark start EC campaign with the win - by Eurobasket News

Belgium U16-Denmark U16 61:66

Denmark start EC campaign with the win over Belgium in Division B. The Danish side overcame the opponents 66:61 at the U16 European Championship in Group B.
The teams exchanged the lead several times in the opening period as Belgium took 18:17 advantage after it. Denmark played better in the second quarter and led for the majority of the half. Jacob Larsen (204-PF-97) scored for 26:20 and Benzon brought 31:27. The latter also sent the teams to the lockers at 37:32. In the third quarter Denmark added 19-10 and enjoyed 56:42 after three quarters when Jacob Larsen made a jump shot. Belgium did not give up and after 19-10 managed to reduce to final 5 points.
Jacob Larsen stepped up with 16 points for the first victory at the tournament. Johannes Nielsen (203-PF-96) followed him with 13, while Jakob Ravn (193-G-96) added 11. Romain Boxus (194-F-96) ended up with 15 points in the losing effort and Sami Demirtas (189-G-96) posted 13. Ordane Kanda-Kanyinda (96) scored 9, whilst Justin Kohajda (203-C-96) collected 8 points and 11 rebounds.

Belgium U16: Romain Boxus 15, Sami Demirtas 13, Ordane Kanda-Kanyinda 9, Justin Kohajda 8+11 rebs
Denmark U16: Jacob Larsen 16, Johannes Nielsen 13, Jakob Ravn 11


Danish U16 National Team 2012 - by Eurobasket

#s#
Markus Gadeberg
Gadeberg
Mikael Andersen
Andersen
Frederik Benzon
Benzon
Mads Hansen
Hansen
Jakob Ravn
Ravn
#e#5
4 Markus Gadeberg 181-PG-96
5 Mikael Andersen 180-PG-96
6 Frederik Benzon 184-PG-96
7 Mads Hansen 194-G-96
8 Jakob Ravn 193-G-96
9 Tage Dembele 201-F-97
10 Mathias Kelly 189-G-96
11 Nicolai Andersen 201-C-96
12 Johannes Nielsen 203-PF-96
13 Alexander Von Spreckelsen 198-F-96
14 Jacob Larsen 204-PF-97
15 Kasper Christiansen 203-F-97

Jakob Jorgensen Head Coach
Anders Sommer Assistant
Nadeem Ahmad Assistant



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


Catching Up With Alex Jensen - by Serafim Karaiskakis



What has your role been on the staff for the Cavaliers summer league team?

Im on staff and Im just helping out. Jamahl (Mosley) and Nate (Tibbetts) are out here running things, but Im just helping out as much as I can. They are out there coaching and I am here to just help out with whatever they need. For me, this and training camp are what I missed last year because of the lockout. Im fortunate enough to be around for it this year and learn from these guys. Its time I get to spend with the Cavs staff that I didnt get to spend last year.

What have you learned in spending time with their staff?

Nate has like six years of D-League experience and Jamahl has been in the NBA for a while. The NBA game is so different from college that Im still learning a ton of new things: like the spacing on offense, defensive terminology and different ways to play in various situations. There are many nuances to the pro game that I continue to learn more about from all of these guys that have been around it for so long.

How has it been getting to work again with familiar faces like T.J. Campbell and Luke Harangody?

Its great since I already have a relationship with those guys. Like when any of the coaches jump in and say something to them that I have said before, its great because I can go, See, I told ya. (Laughs) Its not just me, its how its done.

How has T.J. been doing in summer league?

I think hes doing really well. He does a lot of things that if you dont pay attention, you dont notice. It all doesnt show up in the stat sheet. The other night, he had a couple great draw-and-kicks. Hes a great guy to play with and I think he is very sound. Especially with him being a point guard, this is something we got on him for all season long last year, he has got to come out of his reserved personality. He needs to take control and have a strong presence of leadership aside from just his own play on the court.

Does it help that he is familiar with a lot of the terminology and basics already?

It definitely helps. A lot of stuff we have been doing has been stuff he heard during his time in Canton. He is getting to see that its the same message in Canton as it is with the staff in Cleveland. Its good for him to be on both sides of it and really see that we were trying to make him a better player to succeed on that next level. It helps to actually experience what hes been told over and over again.

What do you think T.J.s chances are of making it with an NBA team?

Im biased, but I truly believe that he is good enough. Hes not quite there now; he has to overcome some things. Whether its true or not, he will always be perceived one way because of his size. Any guy thats small has to be that much more active and aggressive to stand out. He has to do some things better, but I definitely think hes good enough. Hes been showing improvement and showing how good he is. I think another part of the reason why he got invited is that myself and others believe that he can improve more.

Have you gotten to see some of your former players from last season play in summer league yet? (Josh Akognon is with the Sacramento Kings and Frank Hassell is with the Atlanta Hawks)

I have not, but I plan on it. A couple of the guys went to that game where Josh scored 25 points and said he played really well. Im looking forward to seeing them and catching up a little bit. Theyre both really talented and I think theyre both in the same boat as T.J. in that they have a chance to improve and be good enough to play in the league.

Are you out scouting potential D-League prospects for this upcoming season?

During the season, you spend so much time watching your games and your opponents games that you can become less familiar with other players not in the D-League. I was in Orlando last week for that summer league and Im obviously here now watching closely. Its great because I get to familiarize myself with the college guys as well as ones that were playing abroad last year. You never know what guys will be in the D-League draft or in the available player pool later on, so you soak in as much of the players you are unfamiliar with as you can to be as ready as possible.

Finally, touch on the departure of General Manager Wes Wilcox and moving forward.

No one had more to do with our success last year than Wes. He deserves most of the credit. Replacing him is going to be a combination of all us doing more. The great thing is that the foundation that Wes built will make that a lot easier. The people we have are great and we all know each other well already, which helps. We know that its going to take a collective effort though to pick up where Wes left off.

source: http://www.nba.com/dleague/canton/


McHone officially out as Skyforce coach after third stint - by Eurobasket News

The Skyforce were hoping to have just one NBA affiliate for the 2012-13 season. Instead, they'll have four and a new coach.

The NBA D-League announced Tuesday that Sioux Falls will be the D-League outpost for the Minnesota Timberwolves, Miami Heat, Orlando Magic and the Philadelphia 76ers. That last one is a new addition.

Those four teams will be allowed to assign first-, second- and third-year players to the Skyforce an unlimited number of times during the season up from first- or second-year players, previously along with consenting veterans.

Sioux Falls welcomes the additional ties, according to president Mike Heineman. But it had been hoping to enter into a hybrid relationship with an NBA club, in which teams share basketball-related expenses and become sole affiliates. Attempts to make that happen the Force pitched to multiple NBA franchises did not come to fruition. The odds of that changing at this point in the offseason are highly unlikely.

As a result, Sioux Falls can go ahead with its search to replace coach Morris McHone , who is sticking with a late-season inclination to leave the bench. The club had been waiting to see what happened with the hybrid push because a full NBA affiliate would have required input into that decision. Heineman has been conducting phone interviews for nearly two weeks and plans to do at least six and as many as eight in-person interviews later this week in Las Vegas, site of one of the two primary NBA Summer Leagues.
Its kind of the first time weve really interviewed for our job we usually kind of hire in house, said Heineman, who will be joined on the trip by his father and co-owner, Greg. We kind of want to take a different approach this year and look at anybody and everybody whos out there and that might be different than what were used to. Im kind of looking forward to it.

The Force joined the D-League in 2006 and every hire since had a previous tie to the franchise. McHone was in his third stint as the head coach. Hes the franchise leader in career wins with a 195-159 career record. However, Sioux Falls went just 15-35 last season, its second straight sub-par showing.

Heineman hopes having four NBA affiliates can help with that. The Force had three in 2011-12, but wound up with just one assignment player Timberwolves rookie guard Malcolm Lee and no training-camp acquisitions. (D-League teams can inherit the rights to up to three players cut during NBA training camp).

While Heineman has had talks with newcomer Philadelphia, he was more excited about the possibilities with Orlando. The Magic last month hired Rob Hennigan as their general manager. The 30-year-old has spent time with the Oklahoma City Thunder and the San Antonio Spurs, franchises that own and genuinely invest in D-League franchises.
(Hennigan) and the assistant GM Matt Lloyd have already reached out to us and want to be more involved with us, Heineman said. Its exciting for us to have an affiliate reach out to us that really has not happened before.

Maybe down the line the Magic would be interested in a more concrete relationship thats the way the involved leagues are trending.
In 2012-13, 11 of the 16 D-League teams will have one-to-one affiliation through direct ownership or hybrid agreements. The exclusions: Sioux Falls, Bakersfield, Fort Wayne, Iowa and Reno.

Courtesy of www.argusleader.com


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

Standings - District National

LNB Standings
North Division
 1. Metros 2-0 
 2. Indios SF 1-1 
 3. Huracanes 1-2 
 4. Reales 1-2 
South Division
 1. Caneros 2-0 
 2. Titanes 1-1 
 3. Cocolos 1-2 
 4. Leones SD 1-2 

Regular Season: Round 2

Jul. 17: Caneros - Leones SD 96-95
Jul. 17: Indios SF - Reales 93-98
Jul. 18: Reales - Huracanes 82-88
Jul. 18: Leones SD - Cocolos 109-99

Regular Season: Round 3

Jul. 20: Caneros - Titanes
Jul. 20: Indios SF - Metros
Jul. 21: Leones SD - Caneros
Jul. 21: Reales - Indios SF
Jul. 22: Cocolos - Titanes
Jul. 22: Huracanes - Metros



*****************************************************
  ECUADOR   

National League Standings

National League Standings
 1. ADN 0-0 
 2. Bolivar 0-0 
 3. ComuniKT 0-0 
 4. Guerreros 0-0 
 5. Importadora 0-0 
 6. Mavort 0-0 
 7. UTE 0-0 



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


U16 European Championship: The Baltic State grab thrilling win over Bosnia - by Eurobasket News

Bosnia and Herzegovina U16-Estonia U16 82:83

The Baltic State grab thrilling win over Bosnia at the U16 European Championship in Division B. Estonia grabbed 83:82 after a great comeback.
Bosnia and Herzegovina erupted with 31:14 in the first period but could not win the game. Estonia replied with a 7-0 run in the start of the second frame and Ken Lill (188-G-96) reduced to 31:21. Moreover Lelle scored for 37:32 and Norman Kabin (170-PG-97) closed the half at 42:37. Kristofer Kurvits (192-G/F-96) gave Estonia 44:43 lead, while Jaagup Russak (179-G-96) increased to 8 points. Estonia dominated the quarter and had 68:56 after three quarters. The picture however had changed again in the court as Bosnia pulled back to cut the gap. They tried hard to recover but managed to reduce to just one point as Aleksic scored with a buzzer.
Jaagup Russak top-scored for the winners with 18 points and Kristofer Kurvits added 17. Norman Kabin notched 14, while Ken Lill chipped in with 9. Faris Smajlovic (199-F/C-96) finished the game with 20 points in the losing effort. Amar Balic (178-PG-96) had 14, whilst Mirsad Pilavdzic (195-SG-96) delivered 10.

Bosnia and Herzegovina U16: Faris Smajlovic 20, Amar Balic 14, Mirsad Pilavdzic 10
Estonia U16: Jaagup Russak 18, Kristofer Kurvits 17, Norman Kabin 14, Ken Lill 9


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

Standings

Eurobasket S.League Standings
Indianapolis
 1. Rome 4-1 
 2. Amsterdam 3-2 
 3. Berlin 3-2 
 4. Madrid 2-3 
 5. Paris 2-3 
 6. Athens 1-4 
Charlotte
 1. Treviso 4-1 
 2. Poitiers 3-2 
 3. Asker 2-3 
 4. Solna 1-4 
Las Vegas
 1. Monaco 5-0 
 2. Geneva 4-1 
 3. Brussels 3-1 
 4. Zurich 3-1 
 5. Dublin 2-2 
 6. Helsinki 2-2 
 7. Istanbul 2-2 
 8. Lugano 2-2 
 9. Moscow 2-2 
 10. Kiev 0-4 
 11. Manchester 0-4 
 12. Venice 0-4 
Orlando
 1. Vienna 4-1 
 2. Rome 3-2 
 3. Stockholm 2-2 
 4. Warsaw 2-2 
 5. Amsterdam 0-4 
Torino
 1. Milano 3-0 
 2. Torino 0-3 


Las Vegas ESL Co-MVPs and All-Star Teams from Court 1 & 2! - by ESL News

Close to 100 scouts, gms, coaches and agents came through Las Vegas ESL in the last 3 days to see the players and the guys did not disappoint. Everyone worked hard and competed. There was an abundance of talent here at the Las Vegas ESL and it was a tough decision for the coaches to decide on who made the all-tournament team. However, the coaches have based their decisions on the following: professionalism, effort, and the statistics produced over the last 2 days.


Court 1:

Co-MVP: David Graham (196-G/F-85, college: Georgetown, KY) displayed an impressive three day performance in all aspects of what he did here.
He is a good athlete that has a solid 3pt range and a mid-range game as well.
David has a nice step back jump shot and he can create off the dribble to get space to get of his shot.
He also is very athletic, plays solid defense, rebounds well, brings a lot of energy and doesnt get put worked by anyone on the court.
He is a swing player that can play anywhere in Europe and has a bright future.

Marquis Wright (203-F/C-80, college: Alabama) is a high quality forward who has some nice offensive skills.
He can post up around the basket; he can slash and go past slower big men easily and he has a nice mid range jump shot.
Marquis is an excellent rebounder and shot blocker as well.
He runs the floor hard and with his skill level could be a big time forward in any European league.
Raymond was the best skilled forwards in the ESL Summer Camp and has a great attitude and is very coachable.

Zach Coverstone (208-F, college: Ind.Wesleyan) is an excellent hard working post player that has a nice shooting touch.
He can run the floor well and finish in the open court.
He is solid low post defender who the athletic ability to defender smaller players.
Zach is a solid rebounder and has a bright future playing international professional basketball.
He is also a good passer and rebounds extremely well.

Randell Daigle (177-G-87) is an excellent combo guard who can score in bunches from anywhere on the floor.
He has a deep shooting range and can pull up off the pass or dribble without needing a lot of space to shoot.
He can finish at the rim in traffic and is a great passer as well.
Has a high basketball IQ and is a good leader on the floor.
Randall is a solid defender with good quickness.

Clyde McKinney (180-G, college: Ferris St.) is a great leader and does a great job of getting his teammates involved in offensive play.
He is a sold shooter from 3pt range and is a good finisher in the open court.
He can finish and pass well in traffic.
Clyde is a tough defender with quick hands and can defend any ball screen situation with ease.
High Basketball IQ and does great job recognizing favorable match-up situations.

Court 2:

Co-MVP: Jason Conley (196-G-81, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Missouri) was the ESL Las Vegas MVP of court 2 without a doubt and displayed all the qualities in an MVP we were looking for. He is a terrific shooter who shot the lights out over the last few days. Also, his experience and team leadership were second to none. Jason is set to make a serious look at some big time jobs in Europe and show everyone that the injury bug is over. Look for Jason to end up back in the BBL of Germany.

Ryan Anderson (193-G-87, college: Nebraska) is a high quality forward who simply has some nice offensive skills with a very high basketball IQ. He can post up around the basket; he can slash and go past slower big men easily and he has a nice mid range jump shot and posesses a long range threat.
He runs the floor very well and with his skill level could be a big time forward in any European league. I would look for Ryan to have a break out year in Europe or the D-League giving him an opportunity on a NBA summer league roster next year.

Antoine Watson (193-F-88, college: Indiana SE) is an excellent big time athlete that has a nice shooting touch stretching it out to the NBA line. He can get his shot off at will and he explodes over defenders with his NBA athleticism. He is great absorbing contact and still finishing around the rim. He is also a good ball handler who will be an excellent two man and rebounds extremely well. Antoine is going to end up at a high level here or overseas.

Alex Zampier (191-G-88, college: Yale) is a big time prospect in Europe without a doubt as he can handle it, shoot threes and get to the basket. He is a great athlete as he played professional baseball already as he is a very athletic swing man that has a nice game of slashing to the basket and shooting the perimeter shot all the way to NBA 3.
He is perfect for any quality situation in Europe and will get to a high level for sure.

G.W. Boon (193-SG-89, college: Bucknell) does not disappoint each and every time you see him. He is a very strong player and is always very consistent. Boon can play 3 and 4 in small leagues such as Luxembourg. However, he has a very high IQ and could play the 2 and 3 in a league such as BBL of Germany.


*****************************************************
  EUROCUP   


Spartak St.Petersburg and Patrick Beverley part ways - by Eurobasket News

Patrick Beverley (185-PG-88, college: Arkansas) announced via Twitter that he will not return to Spartak St.Petersburg for the next season. He thanked the club for everything. Beverley joined Spartak in January of 2011. He played 22 games in Russia last season averaging 15 points, 5.8 rebounds, 4.9 assists and 2.3 steals. He was fourth scorer and four assistant of the competition, plus he was No.1 in steals. Beverley had slightly lower numbers in VTB United League and EuroCup. The player picked up couple of very important awards: Eurobasket.com All-EuroCup Player of the Year -12, Eurobasket.com All-VTB League Import Player of the Year -12 and Eurobasket.com All-Russian PBL Guard of the Year -12. Before Spartak, Patrick Beverley played for Olympiakos. In 2008/09, he was a member of Dnipro Dnepropetrovsk and it was his first pro deal. Beverley graduated at the University of Arkansas four years ago. He played for U19 USA National Team in the past.


Bilbao officially gets Lamont Hamilton for 2012/13 - by Eurobasket News

Bilbao Basket officially announced signing of Lamont Hamilton (208-C/F-84, college: St.John's). The player penned a one-year deal. Hamilton arrives to the club from Paris-Levallois, where he spent last three seasons. In the latest one the player shined with 17 ppg, 8.2 rpg, 2 apg and 1.2 bpg for 30 games. He was second rebounder, fourth scorer and fourth shot blocker of the competition. For his performance Hamilton was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-French ProA Center of the Year -12. In 2010/11 and 2009/10 season the American had about 15 ppg and 6 rpg in ProA. Lamont Hamilton already played in Spain in the past. In 2008/09 he was a member of the LEB Gold team Tenerife Rural averaging 12.6 points and 7 rebounds for 31 games. Before that he also played for Mallorca. The player graduated at St. Johns University five years ago.


Spartak St.Petersburg inks 2-year deal with PG Zack Wright - by Eurobasket News

Zack Wright (188-G-85, college: Central Mo.) officially became a new member of Spartak St.Petersburg. The American point guard heads to Russia from Cibona Zagreb. He joined Cibona in March this year and led them to championship title in Croatia. The player was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Croatian A1 League Player of the Year -12. He appeared 20 times for the club averaging 8.7 points 4 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 2.1 steals.
Zack Wright started last season with A.G.O Rethymno Aegean. He played 22 games in Greek A1 league collecting 13.5 ppg, 5.4 rpg, 4.1 apg and 2.5 spg. He was named to Eurobasket.com All-Greek A1 League 2nd Team -12 and Eurobasket.com Greek A1 League All-Imports Team -12. Wright also was Defensive Player of the Year. In 2010/11 season, Wright played for Limoges and year before that he spent with Le Mans. Wright also has experience from Chalon and Braunschweig. In 2008, he was named Eurobasket.com All-German 2.Bundesliga Pro B Player of the Year -08. Zack Wright has Bosnian passport and he will play for their National Team.


Buducnost Voli to sign Bulgarian top prospect Pavlin Ivanov and Serbian Dusko Bunic - by Eurobasket News

Buducnost Voli is set to sign a deal with Bulgarian top prospect Pavlin Ivanov (195-G-93, agency: Beo Basket) and Serbian Dusko Bunic (207-C-89, agency: Beo Basket), according to Serbian media (Zurnal.rs). Reportedly, Ivanov will sign a 4-year deal with Montenegrin powerhouse, while Bunic will sign for the next 3 years.
Pavlin Ivanov led Bulgaria to Gold medal last summer at U18 EuroBasket Division B in Varna. He exploded with 18.3 ppg, 4.4 rpg and 2 spg for 7 games at this event. Ivanov was named MVP of the championship.


Galatasaray to terminate Shumpert contract - by Ugur Turker

Galatasaray Medical Park Istanbul wants to terminate final year contract of Preston Shumpert (198-G/F-79, college: Syracuse). After signig of Ersin Da�l� who is able to play Turkish Status, Preston Shumpert will be counted as forigner player even if he has Turkish cititzenship. It is most likely that Ergin Ataman is looking for another Power Forward. Close to situation claim that Preston Shumpert is eager to continue his career in Turkey, but in Istanbul. Besiktas is most possible team to play for Preston Shumper after lost Ersin Dagli. So that there will be trade like between at the end but Galatasaray will have paid to termination fee to waive Shumpert who is asking next year salary for termination.


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


Toronto Raptors officially announced Valanciunas transfer - by Diamadis Farmakis

We knew it for a long time now, but it just became official, yesterday. The Toronto Raptors have signed Lithuanian 7-footer Jonas Valanciunas (210-C-92), the fifth overall pick of the 2011 draft and they announced it to the media, in a press conference in Toronto. All the details of the transfer, and a short ''bio'' of Valanciunas, below.

The Canadians announced Wednesday they have signed centre Jonas Valanciunas to his rookie scale contract and he will be under contract through the 2013-14 season, with two team option years to follow. The Raptors selected the Lithuanian with the fifth overall pick of the 2011 NBA Draft and Per team policy, financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

''We are very pleased to welcome Jonas to the organization'', said Raptors President and General Manager Bryan Colangelo. ''We are certain that Raptors fans will soon realize that the year-long process was worth the wait''.

**Valanciunas, seven-foot, 250 pounds, averaged 14.2 points, 7.4 rebounds, 1.9 blocks and 23.5 minutes in 23 Lithuanian league contests this past season with Lietuvos Rytas. He scored in double figures in 17 games and grabbed double-digit totals in rebounds in seven outings.

**Valanciunas was named 2011 FIBA Europe Young Mens Player of the Year, earned the Eurocup Rising Star Trophy given to the most outstanding player under 22 and was presented the Lithuanian League All-Star Game Most Entertaining Player award.

**Valanciunas appeared in 84 games in the Lithuanian League in his three professional seasons, averaging 11.6 points, 6.9 rebounds and 1.7 blocks. He competed for his country in the 2011 U-19 World Championships, leading Lithuania to the gold medal. He averaged 23.0 points, 13.9 rebounds and 3.2 blocks en route to the Most Valuable Player award. He totaled 36 points, eight rebounds and four blocks in the championship game victory over Serbia.


Euroleague American Tour 2012 games announced - by Eurobasket News

Euroleague Basketball and the National Basketball Association (NBA) will team up this October for the fifth edition of the Euroleague American Tour. Real Madrid of Spain and Montepaschi Siena of Italy will each play two different opponents in the Unites States and Canada during games scheduled for October 6 and October 8, 2012. The two teams will face four NBA opponents: the Memphis Grizzlies, the San Antonio Spurs, the Toronto Raptors and the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Euroleague American Tour 12 will tip off with a pair of games on Saturday, October 6. Madrid will visit the Grizzlies at FedEx Forum in Memphis, Tennessee while Montepaschi faces the Spurs at AT&T Center in San Antonio, Texas. Two nights later, the Euroleague teams move on to different cities. Madrid takes on the Raptors at Air Canada Center in Toronto, Canada and Siena meets the Cavaliers at Quicken Loans Arena in Cleveland, Ohio.

"These games will be a great experience for the team, because even if Real Madrid has played against NBA teams four times before in the clubs history, this will be the first time that we play a game in its territory, having the possibility to promote even more the Real Madrid brand outside Europe," Mr. Juan Carlos Snchez, Basketball Director of Real Madrid, said. "They will be two very enriching games, where, as always, we will compete at our maximum to try to win, but we will also try to contribute to a great show for all the fans to enjoy this duel between the representatives of European and American basketball."

Memphis, San Antonio and Cleveland all featured in the last Euroleague American Tour in 2010 and were anxious to repeat the experience of having Euroleague teams play before their fans again.

"It's a huge honor for us to be able to participate in the 2012 Euroleague American Tour," Montepaschi Siena president Ferdinando Minucci, said. "It's our club's first time in a tournament like this and we thank Euroleague and the NBA for choosing us, along with Real Madrid, to represent European basketball on this overseas tour. We're excited about facing off against two NBA teams, the San Antonio Spurs and the Cleveland Cavaliers, and being able play on their courts; it's a privilege reserved for few teams in Europe."

Euroleague American Tour 12 continues a tradition of friendly competition between NBA and Euroleague teams that dates back to 1978, when Maccabi Tel Aviv played the Washington Bullets in Tel Aviv, Israel. Following Euroleague American Tour 12, a total of 69 games will have been played between European and NBA clubs.

Euroleague American Tour 12 will coincide with NBA Europe Live 2012, in which two other NBA teams will visit Europe for four games. The Boston Celtics will meet Fenerbahce Ulker at the newly opened Ulker Sports Arena in Istanbul, Turkey on October 5. The Dallas Mavericks will come to the O2 World in Berlin, Germany, to face Alba Berlin on October 6. The next day sees EA7 Emporio Armani match up against the Celtics at the Mediolanum Forum. And NBA Europe Live 2012 concludes in Barcelona, Spain, where FC Barcelona Regal takes on the Mavericks.

Date Home Away Venue
October 6 MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES REAL MADRID FedEx Forum - Memphis, TN
October 6 SAN ANTONIO SPURS MONTEPASCHI SIENA AT&T Center - San Antonio, TX
October 8 TORONTO RAPTORS REAL MADRID Air Canada Center Toronto, CAN
October 8 CLEVELAND CAVALIERS MONTEPASCHI SIENA Quicken Loans Arena - Cleveland, OH

Courtesy of Euroleague


Dimitrios Mavroeidis officially joins Olympiakos - by Eurobasket News

As expected, Dimitrios Mavroeidis (208-C-85, agency: FCM) officially became a new member of Olympiakos. According to local media, the player also had an offer from Panathinaikos. Mavroeidis arrives to the reigning Euroleague and Greek champions from Spanish Bilbao, where he had 4.6 ppg and 3.5 rpg for 19 Euroleague games last season. In Liga Endesa, Mavroeidis registered 3.6 ppg and 3.4 rpg. Dimitrios Mavroeidis joined Bilbao in two years ago from Marousi. He played for the Greek squad from 2007 to 2010 and before that Mavroeidis was a member of Panionios and Peristeri. Last summer he joined Greek National Team for the EuroBasket in Lithuania. He appeared 8 times at this event averaging 2.1 points. Earlier this month the player had 7 ppg and 2.3 rpg for 3 games at the Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Caracas. In 2009, Mavroeidis played for Greek B National Team.


*****************************************************
  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U16   

M-Standings - Group A

Standings
Group A
1. Italy1-0
2. Turkey1-0
3. Croatia0-1
4. U.Kingdom0-1
Group B
1. Spain1-0
2. Ukraine1-0
3. Latvia0-1
4. Russia0-1
Group C
1. Germany1-0
2. Lithuania1-0
3. Slovenia0-1
4. Serbia0-1
Group D
1. France1-0
2. Greece1-0
3. Poland0-1
4. Czech Rep.0-1

Preliminary Round: Round 1

A

Jul. 19: TUR - ENG 81-56
Jul. 19: ITA - CRO 77-63

B

Jul. 19: RUS - UKR 63-87
Jul. 19: LAT - ESP 63-65

C

Jul. 19: LTU - SLO 82-76
Jul. 19: GER - SRB 67-60

D

Jul. 19: POL - GRE 63-75
Jul. 19: CZE - FRA 33-60

Preliminary Round: Round 2

A

Jul. 20: ENG - ITA
Jul. 20: CRO - TUR

B

Jul. 20: UKR - LAT
Jul. 20: ESP - RUS

C

Jul. 20: SLO - GER
Jul. 20: SRB - LTU

D

Jul. 20: FRA - POL
Jul. 20: GRE - CZE


Stats Leaders - Group A

Points Per Game
 Pierfrancesco OLIVA
  (200-SF-96)
  Avg: 27
 1. Oliva, ITA27.0 
 2. Sabonis, LTU22.0 
 3. Arapovic, CRO22.0 
 4. Kobets, UKR19.0 
 5. Kavas, SLO18.0 
 6. Kodrin, SLO18.0 
 7. Charalampopo., GRE17.0 
 8. Donzelli, ITA17.0 
 9. Krimelis, LTU17.0 
 10. Avenitis, LAT16.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jan WIMBERG
  (202-G-96)
  Avg: 13
 1. Wimberg, GER13.0 
 2. Gombauld, FRA13.0 
 3. Oliva, ITA13.0 
 4. Lazarevic, SRB13.0 
 5. Donzelli, ITA12.0 
 6. Alemdaroglu, TUR12.0 
 7. Kulka, POL11.0 
 8. Karpenkov, RUS11.0 
 9. Balaban, UKR10.0 
 10. Arapovic, CRO10.0 
Assists Per Game
 Dominykas ZUPKAUSKAS
  (184-PG-96)
  Avg: 10
 1. Zupkauskas, LTU10.0 
 2. Akodo, ENG8.0 
 3. Schmitt, GER5.0 
 4. Arapovic, CRO5.0 
 5. Zywert, POL5.0 
 6. Melderis, LAT4.0 
 7. Starincevic, SRB4.0 
 8. Kovacevic, SLO4.0 
 9. Ugurlu, TUR4.0 
 10. Gecim, TUR4.0 
Steals Per Game
 Marko ARAPOVIC
  (207-C/F-96)
  Avg: 6
 1. Arapovic, CRO6.0 
 2. Toliopoulos, GRE5.0 
 3. Dussoulier, FRA5.0 
 4. Schmitt, GER4.0 
 5. Oliva, ITA4.0 
 6. Zywert, POL4.0 
 7. Lomazs, LAT3.0 
 8. Paliukenas, LTU3.0 
 9. Podkovyrov, UKR3.0 
 10. Donzelli, ITA3.0 
Blocks Per Game
 David SKRANC
  (196-C-96)
  Avg: 3
 1. Skranc, CZE3.0 
 2. Papagiannis, GRE3.0 
 3. Cavars, LAT3.0 
 4. Malmanis, LAT2.0 
 5. Oliva, ITA2.0 
 6. Vrankovic, CRO2.0 
 7. Jordano, SLO2.0 
 8. Vucetic, SRB2.0 
 9. Charalampopo., GRE2.0 
 10. Wimberg, GER2.0 


M-Standings - Group B

Standings Div.B
Group A
1. Belarus1-0
2. Sweden1-0
3. Israel0-0
4. Luxembourg.0-1
5. Finland0-1
Group B
1. Denmark1-0
2. FYR Macedo.1-0
3. Bulgaria0-0
4. Slovakia0-1
5. Belgium0-1
Group C
1. Estonia1-0
2. Georgia1-0
3. Montenegro.0-0
4. Romania0-1
5. Bosnia0-1
Group D
1. Hungary1-0
2. Portugal1-0
3. Switzerlan.1-0
4. Holland0-1
5. Norway0-1
6. Austria0-1

Preliminary Round: Round 1

A

Jul. 19: SWE - FIN 67-57
Jul. 19: LUX - BLR 63-67

B

Jul. 19: BEL - DEN 61-66
Jul. 19: SVK - MKD 47-84

C

Jul. 19: BIH - EST 82-83
Jul. 19: ROM - GEO 51-55

D

Jul. 19: AUT - SUI 57-72
Jul. 19: NOR - HUN 41-90
Jul. 19: NED - POR 40-48

Preliminary Round: Round 2

A

Jul. 20: ISR - SWE
Jul. 20: FIN - LUX

B

Jul. 20: BUL - BEL
Jul. 20: DEN - SVK

C

Jul. 20: MNT - ROM
Jul. 20: GEO - BIH

D

Jul. 20: HUN - AUT
Jul. 20: POR - NOR
Jul. 20: SUI - NED


Stats Leaders - Group B

Points Per Game
 Kristijan NIKOLOV
  (185-G-96)
  Avg: 29
 1. Nikolov, MKD29.0 
 2. Magdevski, MKD27.0 
 3. Niemisto, FIN26.0 
 4. Smajlovic, BIH20.0 
 5. Salash, BLR20.0 
 6. Hakanson, SWE20.0 
 7. Vujakovic, LUX19.0 
 8. Zrinyi, HUN17.0 
 9. Ciotlaus, ROM16.0 
 10. Larsen, DEN16.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Maksim SALASH
  (203-C-96)
  Avg: 17
 1. Salash, BLR17.0 
 2. Hahn, NED14.0 
 3. Janicek, SVK11.0 
 4. Cate, ROM11.0 
 5. Kohajda, BEL11.0 
 6. Kauffmann, LUX10.0 
 7. Steffen, LUX10.0 
 8. Bobilev, GEO10.0 
 9. Dvojakovski, MKD10.0 
 10. Swanstrom, SWE9.0 
Assists Per Game
 Ludvig HAKANSON
  SWE
  (190-PG-96)
  Avg: 11
 1. Hakanson, SWE11.0 
 2. Nikolov, MKD5.0 
 3. Magdevski, MKD5.0 
 4. Kelly, DEN5.0 
 5. Amiel, POR4.0 
 6. Kanda-K., BEL4.0 
 7. Ravn, DEN4.0 
 8. Cvetkovski, MKD3.0 
 9. Pigliafreddo, SVK3.0 
 10. Rozanek, SVK3.0 
Steals Per Game
 Marius CIOTLAUS
  (194-SF-96)
  Avg: 8
 1. Ciotlaus, ROM8.0 
 2. Demirtas, BEL7.0 
 3. Magdevski, MKD6.0 
 4. Cvetkovski, MKD5.0 
 5. Zakradze, GEO4.0 
 6. Berg, NOR4.0 
 7. Eerikinharju, FIN4.0 
 8. Theisen, LUX4.0 
 9. Kuti, ROM4.0 
 10. Franke, NED3.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Maksim SALASH
  (203-C-96)
  Avg: 3
 1. Salash, BLR3.0 
 2. Kandybovic, BLR2.0 
 3. Kauffmann, LUX2.0 
 4. Boxus, BEL2.0 
 5. KhomcHanka, BLR2.0 
 6. Heuschling, LUX2.0 
 7. Skagius, SWE2.0 
 8. Bobilev, GEO2.0 
 9. Isiani, GEO2.0 
 10. Ciotlaus, ROM2.0 


Division B: Results and Stats from Day 1 in Bucharest - by Eurobasket News

Group A
Sweden - Finland 67-57
Sweden wins over Finland in Bucharest in the first day at the U16 European Championship in Division B. Sweden won all the quarters in the game for a 67:57 victory. Skagius and Alanen exchanged the early baskets and Johansson scored for 8:2. Finland reduced to 12:11 at the end of the first period and Henri Niemisto (194-G-96) gave his side 16:14 lead early in the second. Alanen and Elias Eerikinharju (185-G-96) scored for 29:28, while Johansson sent the teams to the lockers at 39:35. Sweden added narrow 16-15 in the third period and led 5 points after three quarters. They finished the game with 12-7 and celebrated the first win at the tournament. Hakanson stepped up with 20 points and 11 rebounds, while Andreas von Uthmann posted 12. Johansson notched 9 and Gustafsson delivered 6. Henri Niemisto ended up with 26 points in the losing effort while Aidoo, Elias Eerikinharju and Nieminen had 6 apiece.

Luxembourg - Belarus 63-67
Belarus celebrated the first win at the U16 European Championship. They held off Luxembourg in Group A opener. Maksim Salash (203-C-96) scored 20 points and grabbed 17 rebounds to lead the winners. Belarus had to deal with a big deficit after a sloppy start. Luxembourg earned a 27:17 lead ten minutes into the encounter. Belarus cut the deficit in the second quarter. They trailed by 9 points at halftime 44:35. The Belarusian team limited their opponents to 9 points in the third term and narrowed the gap at 4-point mark at the final intermission. Belarus went on a 10:0 run late in regulation and sealed the starting victory. Roman Rubinshteyn delivered 16 points for Belarus. Uladzislau Kandybovic (190-G-96) had 8 points and 8 rebounds in the win. Oliver Vujakovic (192-F-96) answered with 19 points and 9 rebounds for Luxembourg. Timothy Kauffmann (191-F-96) provided 15 points and 10 rebounds in the losing effort.

Group B
Belgium - Denmark 61-66
Denmark start EC campaign with the win over Belgium in Division B. The Danish side overcame the opponents 66:61 at the U16 European Championship in Group B. The teams exchanged the lead several times in the opening period as Belgium took 18:17 advantage after it. Denmark played better in the second quarter and led for the majority of the half. Jacob Larsen (204-PF-97) scored for 26:20 and Benzon brought 31:27. The latter also sent the teams to the lockers at 37:32. In the third quarter Denmark added 19-10 and enjoyed 56:42 after three quarters when Jacob Larsen made a jump shot. Belgium did not give up and after 19-10 managed to reduce to final 5 points. Jacob Larsen stepped up with 16 points for the first victory at the tournament. Nielsen followed him with 13, while Ravn added 11. Romain Boxus (194-F-96) ended up with 15 points in the losing effort and Demirtas posted 13. Kanda-Kanyinda scored 9, whilst Kohajda collected 8 points and 11 rebounds.

Slovakia - FYR Macedonia 47-84
Kristijan Nikolov (185-G-96) and Magdevski pace F.Y.R. of Macedonia over Slovak Republic at the U16 European Championship in Division B. They summed up for 56 points in a 84:47 win in the first game. Sarna nailed three in the opening tip for Slovakia but it was the only lead of his team. F.Y.R. of Macedonia won the end of the first period 14:10 and Magdevski scored for 19:12. Magdevski later scored 10 points in a row for 40:19 early in the third quarter. Andrej Cvetkovski (185-G-96) and again Magdevski scored for 51:25, while Samuel Hupka (184-G-96) reduced to 14 points. F.Y.R. of Macedonia finished the third period with 14-0 run and enjoyed 65:27 after three quarters. Slovak Republic replied with 20-19 in the last stanza for the final result. Kristijan Nikolov top-scored for the winners with 29 points and Magdevski nailed 27. Mitrov poured in 9, while Andrej Cvetkovski had 7. Rozanek finished the game with 10 points in defeat, whilst Janicek had 8 points and 11 boards.

Group C
Bosnia - Estonia 82-83
The Baltic State grab thrilling win over Bosnia at the U16 European Championship in Division B. Estonia grabbed 83:82 after a great comeback. Bosnia and Herzegovina erupted with 31:14 in the first period but could not win the game. Estonia replied with a 7-0 run in the start of the second frame and Lill reduced to 31:21. Moreover Lelle scored for 37:32 and Norman Kabin (170-PG-97) closed the half at 42:37. Kurvits gave Estonia 44:43 lead, while Jaagup Russak (179-G-96) increased to 8 points. Estonia dominated the quarter and had 68:56 after three quarters. The picture however had changed again in the court as Bosnia pulled back to cut the gap. They tried hard to recover but managed to reduce to just one point as Aleksic scored with a buzzer. Jaagup Russak top-scored for the winners with 18 points and Kurvits added 17. Norman Kabin notched 14, while Lill chipped in with 9. Smajlovic finished the game with 20 points in the losing effort. Balic had 14, whilst Pilavdzic delivered 10.

Romania - Georgia 51-55
Georgia upset the hosts in Group C opener of the U16 European Championship in Division B. The team grabbed 55:51 in front of 450 fans in Bucharest. Although Romania scored the first 4 points in the game, they could not win the encounter. Georgia managed to post only 2 points after the first 5 minutes, but had 15:10 at the end of it. Lomidze nailed three in the start of the second frame, while Romanian team tied the game at 18:18 after an 8-0 run. Moreover Kuti closed the half at 24:22. The third quarter became decisive in the game and brought 20-13 for the Georgia that had 42:37 at the end of it. The guests kept Romanian scoreless for the first 6 minutes of the last period and took 48:37 lead. They added some free throws at the very end to seal the victory. Luka Zakradze (187-PG-96) led the way with 11 points and Levan Gogaladze (191-PG-97) notched 9. Soso Matchavariani (196-SF-96) delivered 8, whist Giorgi Gugeshashvili (197-F-96) had 7. Marius Ciotlaus (194-SF-96) ended up with 16 points in the losing effort and Kuti added 13.

Group D
Holland - Portugal 40-48
Third quarter brings Portugal success over Netherlands at the U16 European Championship in Division B. Portugal won the game 48:40 in Group D third game of the day. Portugal won the opening tip 5-0 and did not allow the opponents to score in the first 5 minutes of the game. Yannick Franke (185-G-96) later reduce to 12:7 at the end of the quarter and Liem brought the Dutch side 14:12. Moreover the Dutch side created a 14-0 run that gave them 19:12 midway through the second frame. Liem later nailed three to close the period at 25:16. The third quarter however fully belonged to Portugal. Brito tied the game at 27:27 and then Francisco Amiel (186-PG-96) scored for 36:29. Salamanca increased the lead to 10 points early in the last period, while Francisco Amiel delivered two for 43:32. Portugal saved a 8-point victory to seal the win in the opener. Francisco Amiel top-scored for the winners with 12 points and Sergio Da Silva posted 11. Mendes followed them with 8 points in a win. Yannick Franke delivered 13 and Liem notched 12.

Austria - Switzerland 57-72
Switzerland opened win count at U20 European Championship in Division B. They fired past Austria in Group D. Anthony Polite (190-SF-97) came up with 16 points and 12 rebounds to pace the winners. Switzerland stunned their opponents early in the game. They went on a 21:6 run. The Swiss team extended the lead in the second quarter. They piled up a 41:21 halftime advantage. Switzerland boosted the lead in the third quarter. They arrived at the final intermission up by 23 points 58:35. Austria outscored their opponents in the fourth frame but just sweetened the pill at the end. Owandji Otoka netted 15 points, while Luka Mandic (195-F-96) and Mattia Cafisi had 8 points each for the winners. Marvin Ogunsipe replied with 19 points for Austria. Florian Keller (188-F-96) finished with 9 points in the loss.

Norway - Hungary 41-90
Hungary clinched the opening win at U16 European Championship in Division B. They knocked down Norwegian counterparts in Bucharest to improve at 1-0 record in Group D. Viktor Zrinyi (205-C-97) came up with 17 points and 9 rebounds to pace the winners. Hungary jumped into an early lead. They secured a 21:15 lead ten minutes into the encounter. Hungary maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. They established a 33:23 halftime advantage. Hungary boosted the margin in the third term. They unloaded 28 points to take a 29-point buffer heading into the fourth frame. Norway conceded 29 points in the final quarter to suffer a heavy defeat. Levente Nagy (194-SG-96) accounted for 15 points, while Csanad Antoni added 13 points for the winners. Harald Frey (174-PG-97) answered with 9 points for Norway. Anders Nymo (177-PG-96) and Sjur Berg netted 8 points each in the loss.


Results and Stats from Day 1 in Latvia and Lithuania - by Eurobasket News

Group A
Italy - Croatia 77-63
Italy pip Croatia in the opener of the U16 European Championship. The Italian team started the campaign with 77:63 victory in Ventspils. It was Croatia that started with 23-13 in the first period. They could not however keep the lead and lost the game. Italy needed the whole second quarter to tie the game at 34:34. Croatia took the lead again in the third period and grabbed 40:34. Italy meanwhile needed a strong end of the period for 50:49 lead at the end of the quarter. Italy added massive 27-14 in the last stanza to seal the victory. Oliva top-scored for the winners with 27 points and 13 rebounds. Daniel Donzelli (199-SG-96) collected 17 points and 12 boards, while Federico Mussini (179-PG-96) scored 10. Arapovic collected 22 points and 10 rebounds in the losing effort and Bozic had 13. Roko Dominovic (189-PG-96) delivered 10 and Sabic nailed 6.

Turkey - United Kingdom 81-56
Turkey registered the first win at the U16 European Championship in Division A. They knocked down England in Ventspils. Ogulcan Baykan (195-SG-96) scored 12 points to lead the winners. Turkey led by just three points ten minutes into the game. 18:15. But they managed to boost the gap in the second quarter. Turkey accumulated a 33:25 halftime advantage. The margin grew in the third term. Turkey stayed dominant to enter the final quarter up by 16 points 53:37. Turkey unloaded 28 points in the final frame and sealed a comfortable win at the end. Okben Ulubay and Akif Guven (206-C-96) accounted for 10 points each for the winners. Jules Akodo (G-96) answered with 13 points, 8 assists and 5 boards for England. Dwayne Lautier-Ogunleye (191-SG-96) netted 12 points in the loss.

Group B
Russia - Ukraine 63-87
Ukraine surprise Russia in Ventspils at the start of the U16 European Championship. Ukraine closed Day 1 with the win over the Russian cadets 87:63. Ukraine did not waste time and started with 27:17 lead. They never looked behind in the game and added 17-14 surge in the second frame. Moreover Ukraine won also two quarters in the second half. They produced 20-17 in the third quarter and finished the game with 23-15 in the last period. Oleksandr Kobets (192-SF-96) paced all the winners with 19 points, while Yevgen Balaban (198-PF-96) collected 15 points and 10 rebounds. Sviatoslav Mykhailiuk (194-SG-97) netted 14 and Golyk scored 11. Aleksandr Zuev (193-PG-96) replied with 11 points in the losing effort and Mikhail Maleyko (203-PF-96) added 10. Knyazev followed them with 9 points in a loss.

Latvia - Spain 63-65
The hosts fail to Spain in Ventspils at the U16 European Championship. The Latvian side was unable to produce the result hometown fans were hoping for, agonizingly falling to Spain 63:65 in the opening Group B game. Spain took 19:16 after the first 10 minutes and added 25-17 in the second frame. Bauza and Alonso scored for 44:33 as the teams went to the lockers. The third quarter belonged to the home side as Lomazs reduced to 44:41. Melderis and Adnam Omeragic (200-F-96) exchanged the shots for 54:47 at the end of the third period and Rauls Avenitis (180-PG-96) cut it to 56:52. Rauls Avenitis also managed to tie the game at 58:58, while Feikners made the same at 61:61. Latvia however could not take the lead and allowed Spain to win the thriller. Adnam Omeragic and Garcia scored the free throws at the end to seal the victory. Garcia top-scored for the winners with 13 points and Adnam Omeragic nailed 12. Martinez finished the game with 11 points, while Bauza scored 9. Rauls Avenitis produced 16 points in defeat, whilst Meznieks-Zahars had 12. Lomazs and Melderis ended up with 8 points each in a loss.

Group C
Lithuania - Slovenia 82-76
Lithuania pip Slovenia in Panevezys at the start of the U16 European Championship. The Baltic State celebrated a 82:76 win in the opener. The co-hosts of the U16 European Championship opened the game with 23:14 lead in the first period. Both squads added 22 points to their account in the second frame that brought 45:36 for Lithuania at the halftime. Tautvydas Paliukenas (192-SF-96) and Deividas Zemgulis (194-PF-96) opened the third period making 50:36 and Rupkus scored for 54:44. Budrys later closed the quarter at 58:44 as Lithuania won the third period 13-8. Slovenia had massive 32-24 in the last stanza but could reduce to 6 points at the end. Domantas Sabonis (199-PF-96) paced all the winners with 22 points and Krimelis netted 17. Tautvydas Paliukenas ended up with 14 points, while Deividas Zemgulis had 13. Kavas and Kodrin produced 18 points each in the losing effort. Grega Sajevic (183-SG-96) nailed 15, whilst Grubelic had 9.

Germany - Serbia 67-60
Four players score 11 points as Germany beat Serbia at the U16 European Championship first game. The German side took 1-0 record after 67:60 win in Group C. Germany erupted with 19-4 lead in the opening period, but lost all three other quarters. Jovanovic and Pavlovic reduced to 35:24 at the end of the half. Later Jovan Starincevic (188-PG-96) and Vucetic cut it to 39:33, while Lazarevic scored for 43:38. The final push at the end of the frame however allowed the German side to take 53:44 after three quarters. Serbia won the last stanza 16-14 and could cut it to 7 points at the end of the game. Wimberg, Casper, Mahir Agva (202-C-96) and Ferner top-scored for the winners with 11 points each. Pavlovic delivered 14 points and 10 rebounds in the losing effort. Ivan Daskalovic (199-SG-96) scored 10, while Lazarevic collected 9 points and 13 rebounds.

Group D
Czech Republic - France 33-60
France wins defensive battle to complete day one action in Panevezys at the U16 European Championship Men. The French side celebrated a 60:33 win over Czech Republic. Czech Republic scored the first four points in the game and led 8:7. Later on France took the control of the quarter and won the first period 15:10. Czech Republic was too far to give up an Hanzlik brought 20:19 lead. Michel meanwhile made two free throws at the end of the half for 26:23 advantage. Cyrille Eliezer-Vanerot (194-F-96) nailed three for 34:25 and Dussoulier posted two free throws for 40:30. Ory later closed the quarter at 47:30 as France had 21-7 surge in the third period. They added 13-3 in the last stanza to seal the victory. Ory, Stephane Gombauld (200-PF-97) and Cyrille Eliezer-Vanerot top-scored for the winners with 10 points each. Matej Svoboda (200-PF-96) scored the same number of points in the losing effort and Pursl added 8.

Poland - Greece 63-75
Greece clinched the opening win at the start of U16 European Championship in Latvia/Lithuania. They held off Poland in Group D action. Vasileios Charalampopoulos (199-F-97) came up with 17 points and 8 rebounds to lead the charge. Greece eased to a 20:11 lead after ten minutes. They maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. The Hellenes ensured a 43:28 halftime cushion. Greece stayed in control after the big break. They secured a 17-point lead with one period remaining. Poland outgunned their opponents in the fourth frame but had to surrender at the end. Dimitrios Stamatis (192-G-96) knocked down 15 points, while Vasileios Toliopoulos (185-PG-96) had 13 points in the victory. Kamil Zywert (188-PG-96) and Artur Wlodarczyk answered with 15 points apiece for Poland. Marek Zywert netted 11 points in the losing case.


*****************************************************
  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U20   

M-Standings - Division B

Standings Div.B
Group E
1. Bulgaria2-1
2. Israel2-1
3. Poland1-2
4. Belgium1-2
Group F
1. Czech Rep.3-0
2. Croatia1-2
3. U.Kingdom1-2
4. Finland1-2
Group G (positions 9-18)
1. Austria3-0
2. Holland2-1
3. Slovakia2-1
4. FYR Macedo.1-2
5. Luxembourg.0-4
Group H (positions 9-18)
1. Portugal3-0
2. Denmark2-1
3. Belarus2-2
4. Switzerlan.1-2
5. Hungary0-3

Second Stage: Round 7

E

Jul. 19: POL - BUL 70-78
Jul. 19: BEL - ISR 66-69

F

Jul. 19: CZE - ENG 91-75
Jul. 19: FIN - CRO 69-94

G

Jul. 19: SVK - LUX 76-52
Jul. 19: NED - AUT 61-64

H

Jul. 19: SUI - BLR 78-89
Jul. 19: POR - HUN 61-55

Second Stage: Round 8

G

Jul. 20: AUT - MKD
Jul. 20: NED - SVK

H

Jul. 20: HUN - DEN
Jul. 20: POR - SUI


Semifinals are set in Division B - by Eurobasket News

Group E
Belgium - Israel 66-69
Israel grab the last ticket to Final Four of the U20 European Championship in Division B. The team overcame Belgium 69:66 in a thriller to take 2-1 record in Group E. It was the game for the last ticket from Group E to the semifinal. Both teams started strong, but Belgium took 22:11 after the first 10 minutes. Moreover they added 20-15 in the second frame and enjoyed 16-point advantage at the halftime. Belgium made everything they could to win the game but reduce to 3 final points. They won the third quarter 19-13 and added 21-14 in the last stanza. Elias Lasisi (192-G/F-92) gave them 66:64 lead, but Solomon and Bar Timor (191-PG-92, agency: Avi Zilberman) brought the victory for the opponents. Bar Timor top-scored for the winners with 20 points and Solomon nailed 16. Blayzer collected 14 points and 14 rebounds, while Dawson added 10. Elias Lasisi erupted with 34 points in the losing effort as Belgium finished with 1-2 record on the last place in the group. Khalid Boukichou (208-C-92) had 12 points and 10 rebounds, whilst Ojomoh scored 11.

Poland - Bulgaria 70-78
Sofia sent the hosts to the Semifinals of the U20 European Championship in Division B. Bulgaria overcame the Polish players 78:70 and sent them out of Top Four. It was a tough game and could send only one team to the Semifinal. Although two of them deserved a spot there, Bulgaria managed to grab the victory. They started with 22-21, but the game was tied at the halftime. In the second half Bulgaria produced two victories. They won the third quarter 18-15 and finished the game with 21-16 in the last stanza. Pavlin Ivanov (195-G-93, agency: Beo Basket) paced all the winners with 35 points, while Angel Natskin (182-PG-93) netted 11. Dimitrov delivered 10 and Boyanov scored 9. Ponitka and Tomasz Gielo (205-F-93) scored 20 points each in defeat and the latter also added 12 rebounds. Piotr Niedzwiedzki (210-F-93) followed them with 8 points in a loss.

Group F
Finland - Croatia 69-94
Croatia destroy Finland for the Semifinal ticket at the U20 European Championship in Division B. Croatia needed 94:69 win to take 1-2 record as well as two other teams including Finland. Due to the better difference, Croatia managed to climb higher than Finland and Great Britain. Croatia needed a big win and started with 23:7. They enjoyed 16-point lead at the halftime and added 28-17 in the third period. Finland won the last stanza 26-24 but it was not enough to advance to the semis. Stipe Krstanovic (204-F/C-93) top-scored for the winners with 20 points and Sirko added 17. Roko Rogic (187-PG-92) and Vukovic followed them with 14 points, whilst Markulin scored 12. Aleksi Akpaso (192-SG-92) finished the game with 16 points and Joonas Caven (211-C/F-93) posted 14. Vaenerberg notched 11, while Villematti Kopio (182-PG-92) delivered 10.

Czech Republic - United Kingdom 91-75
Czech Republic heads to the semis of the U20 European Championship in Division B. The team added another win at the tournament edging Great Britain 91:75 and sending them out of the Top 4. Czech Republic continued the streak and proved the ambitions for Division A. They started with 24-19 in the first period and had 5-point lead at the half-time. The third quarter was decisive in the game and brought 29-16 in the third period. Great Britain managed to win the last stanza 19-21 and finished third in the group. Bohacik top-scored for the winners with 24 points, while Martin Kriz (202-F-93) collected 21 points and 10 rebounds. Michal Sotnar (189-PG-92) nailed 12 and Fait as well as Vaclav Honomichl (189-G-92) added 9 each. Devon Van Oostrum (190-G-93) ended up with 20 points in the losing effort, whilst Fiorentinos had 18. Hart scored 13 and Chuku delivered 10.

Group G
Slovakia - Luxembourg 76-52
Slovak Republic closed Day 7 with the win at the U20 European Championship in Division B. The winning side improved to 2-1 record in Group G after 76:52 victory over Luxembourg. The latter fell at 0-4 record on the bottom of the group. Luxembourg surprised the opponents with 15:14 in the first period, but could not keep the lead. Maurizio Galata (203-F-92) and Viktor Dedecek (200-F-93) scored for 18:15 and then Slovak Republic pushed the tempo for good. Maurizio Galata and Matus Luley (195-F-92) closed the half at 32:25 and then Slovak Republic added 18-17 in the third quarter. Viktor Dedecek nailed three for 60:44, while Maurizio Galata added few more for 65:44. Slovak Republic also won the end of the game with an 8-0 run to seal a comfortable victory. Maurizio Galata top-scored for the winners with 21 points and Galad as well as Moravek posted 11 each. Matus Luley collected 10 points and 11 rebounds in defeat. Arendt ended up with 23 points in the losing effort, while Max Schmit and Welter had 8 each.

Holland - Austria 61-64
Austria conquer Group G of the Classification Round for 9-18 places at the U20 European Championship in Division B. The Austrian side won over Netherlands 64:61 for 3-0 record. Netherlands suffered the first loss and fell at 2-1 record. Both teams struggled for the victory that ensured the top place in the group. Both of then scored 16 points each in the first period and only after that Austria needed 14-9 surge to win the half 30:25. Moreover Zulic and Hopfgartner increased the lead at 10 points and Friedrich scored for 41:33. Netherlands however was too late to give up and grabbed 46:45 advantage early in the last period. Bart Stolk (206-C-93) scored for 53:50 and Aarts added two for 55:52. Austria meanwhile responded with 11-0 run and took 63:55. No matter how hard the Dutch team tried to recover they could not win the game. Hopfgartner paced all the winners with 23 points and Friedrich added 13. Bart Stolk finished the game with 22 points, while Ivan Filipan (193-G/F-92) scored 14 in defeat.

Group H
Switzerland - Belarus 78-89
Belarus pip Switzerland in Sofia at the U20 European Championship in Division B. The winning team improved to 2-2 record after 89:78 victory. The Swiss team fell at 1-2 record in Group H. Belarus started with 31:15 and never looked behind after. They added 30-25 in the second frame as Yauheni Suhaniaka (200-F-92) closed the half at 61:40. Zakhar and Vitali Liutych (198-SG-92) opened the third quarter for 64:40, while Vitali Liutych delivered two fro 71:44. Bozovic and Yauheni Suhaniaka closed the third period at 78:57. Switzerland meanwhile won the last stanza 21-11 to reduce the gap to 11 points. Vitali Liutych top-scored for the winners with 33 points. Robertas Ruzgaitis (198-F-93) followed him with 20, while Yauheni Suhaniaka added 13. Savoy and Atcho ended up with 17 points each in the losing effort. Bozovic scored 13, while Marko Mladjan (206-F-93) had 11.

Portugal - Hungary 61-55
Portugal grab 3-0 record in Group H at the U20 European Championship in Division B. The team overcame Hungary 61:55 in Sofia. The latter fell at 0-3 record. Hungary won the opening tip 5-1 and then Zoltan Czinger (215-C-93) scored for 7:4. Portugal meanwhile finished the first period with a 6-0 run and took 13:9 advantage. Again Hungary took the lead in the second period and erupted with a defensive 14-3 run. Kovacs and Zoltan Czinger closed the half at 23:16, but Hungary could not win. Wildner tied the game at 28:28, while Akos Lakosa (193-G-92) and Tursics tied it again at 37:37. Portugal dominated the last period and produced a 24-18 in it. Cardoso finished the game from the free throw line for the final result. Wildner top-scored for the winners with 21 points and Cardoso added 15. Jakab answered with 12 points and Zoltan Czinger posted 10.


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  FINLAND   


U16 European Championship: Sweden wins over Finland in Bucharest - by Eurobasket News

Sweden U16-Finland U16 67:57

Sweden wins over Finland in Bucharest in the first day at the U16 European Championship in Division B. Sweden won all the quarters in the game for a 67:57 victory.
Skagius and Alanen exchanged the early baskets and Erik Johansson (194-F-96) scored for 8:2. Finland reduced to 12:11 at the end of the first period and Henri Niemisto (194-G-96) gave his side 16:14 lead early in the second. Alanen and Elias Eerikinharju (185-G-96) scored for 29:28, while Erik Johansson sent the teams to the lockers at 39:35. Sweden added narrow 16-15 in the third period and led 5 points after three quarters. They finished the game with 12-7 and celebrated the first win at the tournament.
Ludvig Hakanson (190-PG-96) stepped up with 20 points and 11 rebounds, while Andreas Von Uthmann (196-F-96) posted 12. Erik Johansson notched 9 and Gustafsson delivered 6. Henri Niemisto ended up with 26 points in the losing effort while Fiifi Aidoo (175-PG-96), Elias Eerikinharju and Samuli Nieminen (200-F-96) had 6 apiece.

Sweden U16: Ludvig Hakanson 20+11 rebs, Andreas Von Uthmann 12, Erik Johansson 9, Gustafsson 6
Finland U16: Henri Niemisto 26, Fiifi Aidoo 6, Elias Eerikinharju 6, Samuli Nieminen 6


U20 European Championship: Croatia destroy Finland for the Semifinal ticket - by Eurobasket News

Finland U20-Croatia U20 69:94

Croatia destroy Finland for the Semifinal ticket at the U20 European Championship in Division B. Croatia needed 94:69 win to take 1-2 record as well as two other teams including Finland. Due to the better difference, Croatia managed to climb higher than Finland and Great Britain.
Croatia needed a big win and started with 23:7. They enjoyed 16-point lead at the halftime and added 28-17 in the third period. Finland won the last stanza 26-24 but it was not enough to advance to the semis.
Stipe Krstanovic (204-F/C-93) top-scored for the winners with 20 points and Henrik Sirko (198-F-93) added 17. Roko Rogic (187-PG-92) and Domagoj Vukovic (206-C-93) followed them with 14 points, whilst Bruno Markulin (192-SF-92) scored 12. Aleksi Akpaso (192-SG-92) finished the game with 16 points and Joonas Caven (211-C/F-93) posted 14. Alex Vaenerberg (183-G-92) notched 11, while Villematti Kopio (182-PG-92) delivered 10.

Finland U20: Aleksi Akpaso 16, Joonas Caven 14, Alex Vaenerberg 11, Villematti Kopio 10
Croatia U20: Stipe Krstanovic 20, Henrik Sirko 17, Roko Rogic 14, Domagoj Vukovic 14, Bruno Markulin 12


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  FRANCE   


Gravelines offers 5-year extension to Yannick Bokolo - by Eurobasket News

Gravelines offered 5-year contract extension to Yannick Bokolo (190-G-85) and now waits for the answer. They already spent last four seasons together. In the latest one Bokolo averaged 7.8 points, 3.3 rebounds and 2.9 assists for 31 games in ProA. The player added 8.7 ppg, 2.9 rpg and 2.6 apg for 10 EuroCup games. Yannick Bokolo joined Gravelines in 2008 from Le Mans. He led Gravelines to Semaine des As trophy a year ago and was named MVP. In 2006, Bokolo won ProA title and Semaine des As with Le Mans. He was their member from 2003 to 2008. In the past, Bokolo played for INSEP. He is active member of the French National Team.


Trail Blazers match Timberwolves offer for Nicolas Batum - by Eurobasket News

The Portland Trail Blazers weren't bluffing about Nicolas Batum (6'7''-F-88) after all.

The Blazers matched the Minnesota Timberwolves' four-year offer sheet worth more than $45 million for the restricted free agent, keeping the 23-year-old small forward as new general manager Neil Olshey said they would all along.

Olshey made the announcement on Wednesday in Las Vegas, where the Blazers were participating in the summer league. He said that some of the incentives in Minnesota's offer sheet, which would have pushed the deal past $50 million, were denied by the league.

"The decision was made a long time ago," Olshey told reporters in Las Vegas. "We were never not going to have Nicolas back. We did investigate certain things with Minnesota as a due diligence deal. We wanted to make sure we explored every option to improve our basketball team, but there was never a situation where there was a commensurate package offered back that was attractive enough to let Nicolas go."

Portland's move to keep Batum ended a long and occasionally bitter negotiation between the Blazers and the Timberwolves, who were convinced the French player was the missing piece in a young core that already has Kevin Love and Ricky Rubio.

"We are disappointed that Nicolas Batum will not be on our team and wish him the best in the future," Minnesota general manager David Kahn said. "However, we were prepared for the possibility of this outcome and will move forward with our other plans."

Batum left the French national team, which is preparing for the Olympics, to take a physical in Portland scheduled for Thursday.

Blazers owner Paul Allen tweeted, "Welcome back Nic! And good luck in the Olympics."

Kahn had been interested in Batum for several years and was aggressive when free agency opened at the start of this month. The T'wolves hosted Batum in the first week of July and agreed to terms on an offer sheet on July 6, with Batum's agent saying his client very much preferred Minnesota over staying in Portland.

The T'wolves were hoping that the size of the deal coupled with Batum's stated desire to play under T'wolves coach Rick Adelman and alongside Love and Rubio would be enough to convince the Blazers to agree to a sign-and-trade to bring the versatile swingman to Minnesota.

The two teams spent a week and a half in negotiations, but never could find common ground. Unwilling to part with Derrick Williams and a bevy of draft picks, the T'wolves searched far and wide to add a third team to the mix that would have added some attractive pieces for the Blazers to pull the trigger. The T'wolves offered multiple first-round draft picks and Bulls shooter Kyle Korver in one version of the deal, but that was rejected and Korver instead was traded to Atlanta.

Even when it became apparent that a sign-and-trade wasn't going to happen, the T'wolves pressed on. Owner Glen Taylor said last week that they planned "to call their bluff" and file the offer sheet with the league to see if Olshey was serious about matching any offer. After making a few moves to create the necessary cap room, the T'wolves submitted the offer sheet to the league on Sunday, giving the Blazers three days to match.

While he enjoys living in Portland and playing in front of the Blazers' passionate fans, Batum's agent claimed that his client grew disenchanted with the way he was used by former coach Nate McMillan. Batum was looking for more freedom to go to the rim on offense, and more of an opportunity to display his athleticism, which is why he was hoping to come to Minnesota and play in Adelman's more wide-open offense.

Batum, who is entering his fifth season and averaged 13.9 points and 4.6 rebounds last year, and the Blazers also hit a road block in January, when Portland declined to extend a long-term contract. The Blazers told Batum all along that they wanted to bring him back, but also wanted the cap flexibility to make other moves.

After missing out on center Roy Hibbert when their max offer was matched by the Indiana Pacers, the Blazers appear to be moving forward with Batum, big man LaMarcus Aldridge, shooting guard Wes Matthews and rookie point guard Damian Lillard as they try to retool in the powerful Western Conference.

Olshey said he has been in constant contact with Batum, talking almost every day through the process and wasn't concerned about Batum's stated desire to play in Minnesota.

"He's always expressed a desire to come back to Portland," Olshey said. "His agent did what he needed to do, which is get him the best possible deal for his client. He feels like he did that. Nicolas got his deal, we got our player back and we'll move on."

In some ways, losing out on Batum will still help the T'wolves. They have more than $14 million in cap room now, and are expected to announce agreements with former Blazers guard Brandon Roy and Russian guard Alexey Shved in the coming days.

Minnesota also is interested in Boston Celtics restricted free agent Greg Stiemsma, Los Angeles Lakers power forward Jordan Hill and is expected to pursue Houston Rockets free agent Courtney Lee and Chicago Bulls veteran Ronnie Brewer as contingency plans for Batum.

Courtesy of www.usatoday.com


U16 European Championship: France wins defensive battle - by Eurobasket News

Czech Republic U16-France U16 33:60

France wins defensive battle to complete day one action in Panevezys at the U16 European Championship Men. The French side celebrated a 60:33 win over Czech Republic.
Czech Republic scored the first four points in the game and led 8:7. Later on France took the control of the quarter and won the first period 15:10. Czech Republic was too far to give up an Hanzlik brought 20:19 lead. Michel meanwhile made two free throws at the end of the half for 26:23 advantage. Cyrille Eliezer-Vanerot (194-F-96) nailed three for 34:25 and Dussoulier posted two free throws for 40:30. Etienne Ory (175-PG-96) later closed the quarter at 47:30 as France had 21-7 surge in the third period. They added 13-3 in the last stanza to seal the victory.
Etienne Ory, Stephane Gombauld (200-PF-97) and Cyrille Eliezer-Vanerot top-scored for the winners with 10 points each. Matej Svoboda (200-PF-96) scored the same number of points in the losing effort and Simon Pursl (200-C-97) added 8.

Czech Republic U16: Matej Svoboda 10, Simon Pursl 8
France U16: Etienne Ory 10, Stephane Gombauld 10, Cyrille Eliezer-Vanerot 10


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  FYR MACEDONIA   


FYR Macedonian U16 National Team 2012 - by Eurobasket

#s#
Simeon Mitrov
Mitrov
Luka Petrovski
Petrovski
Filip Jankovski
Jankovski
Andrej Cvetkovski
Cvetkovski
Ilija Partalov
Partalov
#e#5
4 Simeon Mitrov 179-PG-96
5 Luka Petrovski 190-PG-96
6 Filip Jankovski 175-PG-96
7 Andrej Cvetkovski 185-G-96
8 Ilija Partalov 195-F-96
9 Andrej Magdevski 190-G-96
10 Kristijan Nikolov 185-G-96
11 Nenad Stojanovski 195-F-96
12 Oliver Dvojakovski 204-C-97
13 Filip Bakoch 202-C-96
14 Metodija Beshilovski 197-F-96
15 Martin Shalev 200-F-96

Igor Mihajlovski Head Coach
Blagoja Kechovski Assistant



U16 European Championship: Nikolov and Magdevski pace F.Y.R. of Macedonia over Slovak Republic - by Eurobasket News

Slovak Republic U16- F.Y.R. of Macedonia U16 47:84

Kristijan Nikolov (185-G-96) and Andrej Magdevski (190-G-96) pace F.Y.R. of Macedonia over Slovak Republic at the U16 European Championship in Division B. They summed up for 56 points in a 84:47 win in the first game.
Sarna nailed three in the opening tip for Slovakia but it was the only lead of his team. F.Y.R. of Macedonia won the end of the first period 14:10 and Andrej Magdevski scored for 19:12. Andrej Magdevski later scored 10 points in a row for 40:19 early in the third quarter. Andrej Cvetkovski (185-G-96) and again Andrej Magdevski scored for 51:25, while Hupka reduced to 14 points. F.Y.R. of Macedonia finished the third period with 14-0 run and enjoyed 65:27 after three quarters. Slovak Republic replied with 20-19 in the last stanza for the final result.
Kristijan Nikolov top-scored for the winners with 29 points and Andrej Magdevski nailed 27. Petros Mitrovic (185-G-97) poured in 9, while Andrej Cvetkovski had 7. Robert Rozanek (180-PG-96) finished the game with 10 points in defeat, whilst Norbert Janicek (206-C-96) had 8 points and 11 boards.

Slovak Republic U16: Robert Rozanek 10, Norbert Janicek 8+11 rebs
F.Y.R. of Macedonia U16: Kristijan Nikolov 29, Andrej Magdevski 27, Petros Mitrovic 9, Andrej Cvetkovski 7


*****************************************************
  GEORGIA   


U16 European Championship: Georgia upset the hosts in Group C opener - by Eurobasket News

Romania U16-Georgia U16 51:55

Georgia upset the hosts in Group C opener of the U16 European Championship in Division B. The team grabbed 55:51 in front of 450 fans in Bucharest.
Although Romania scored the first 4 points in the game, they could not win the encounter. Georgia managed to post only 2 points after the first 5 minutes, but had 15:10 at the end of it. Lomidze nailed three in the start of the second frame, while Romanian team tied the game at 18:18 after an 8-0 run. Moreover Nandor Kuti (194-SG-97) closed the half at 24:22. The third quarter became decisive in the game and brought 20-13 for the Georgia that had 42:37 at the end of it. The guests kept Romanian scoreless for the first 6 minutes of the last period and took 48:37 lead. They added some free throws at the very end to seal the victory.
Luka Zakradze (187-PG-96) led the way with 11 points and Levan Gogaladze (191-PG-97) notched 9. Soso Matchavariani (196-SF-96) delivered 8, whist Giorgi Gugeshashvili (197-F-96) had 7. Marius Ciotlaus (194-SF-96) ended up with 16 points in the losing effort and Nandor Kuti added 13.

Romania U16: Marius Ciotlaus 16, Nandor Kuti 13
Georgia U16: Luka Zakradze 11, Levan Gogaladze 9, Soso Matchavariani 8, Giorgi Gugeshashvili 7


Tornike Shengelia to sign with Nets - by Eurobasket News

Tornike Shengelia (6'10''-F-91) just wanted a chance to prove his worth. In the process, he earned a roster spot.

A source told The Post Wednesday that Shengelia will sign a two-year deal with the Nets this week, completing an improbable journey over the past few weeks from draft night afterthought to earning a roster spot following an impressive showing with the Nets entry in the Orlando Summer League.

The Nets acquired the 6-foot-8 forwards draft rights from Philadelphia last month after the 76ers took him with the 54th overall selection.

Nets general manager Billy King said on draft night that Shengelia likely would return to Europe next season, after he spent last year playing with Spirou Charleroi in the Belgian League, where he averaged 7.6 points and 3.8 rebounds in 12 Euroleague games.

But Shengelia pushed to play on the Nets Summer League team to prove he was ready to come over now, and when the Nets gave him a spot, he took advantage of the opportunity.

Shengelia, who can play both forward positions, was one of the most impressive performers for the Nets in Orlando. He averaged 10.2 points, 3.6 rebounds and shot 53 percent from the field in five games. His best performance came, ironically, against the Sixers on July 11, when he finished with 17 points, six rebounds and two assists in 27 minutes.

In order to bring Shengelia over for next season, the Nets almost certainly paid all of his $300,000 buy-out with Charleroi. NBA teams are allowed to contribute up to $550,000 toward a players buy-out.

Including Shengelia and Keith Bogans, who a league source said was likely to sign with the team in the near future, the Nets will have filled 13 of their 15 available roster spots for next season.

Courtesy of www.nypost.com


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  GERMANY   


The LTi Giessen 46ers Haul In Rebound Monster John Fields - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber


It didnt take the LTi Giessen 46ers long to reel in their second American after Dijuan Harris responding with John Fields (205-F-88, college: Tennessee). Fields is a 22 year old 205cm forward from Fayetteville, North Carolina that will be playing his second professional season and first in Germany in the Beko BBL. Last season Fields played as a rookie for the : Salon Vilpas Vikings (Finland-Korisliiga, starting five): 39 games: 11.4ppg, Reb-1 (12.2rpg), Blocks-2 (1.8bpg), FGP-1 (62.5%), FT: 45.2%. "John played an amazing season in Finland. He is a force under the hoop. He is a very agile and mobile forward that brings a lot of athletic ability. He will help us very much under the basket with his physical presence", stated LTi Giessen 46ers ehad coach Mathias Fischer. Fields started his basketball career for E.Carolina (NCAA) in 2006 where he played until 2008. He then transfered to NC-Wilmington (NCAA): 26 games: 10.2ppg, 8.7rpg, 2.3bpg, FGP: 53.2%, FT: 50.4%. In his senior year, he made one more college change going to Tennessee (NCAA): 34 games: 2.6ppg, 3.0rpg, 1.2bpg. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been Fayetteville Observer Player-of-the-Year -06, HS first-team all-conference and second team all-state -06
C-USA All-Freshman Team -07, Eurobasket.com All-Finnish Korisliiga Honorable Mention -12, and Eurobasket.com Finnish Korisliiga All-Defensive Team -12

Source: LTi Giessen 46ers


Paul Zipser Remains With USC Heidelberg - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Sometimes it is wiser to stay another year in a place where one is comfortable and can develop further without pressure instead of taking the bate and signing with a big time Beko BBL team. According to lumani107.net Paul Zipser who is one of the biggest German talents for the birth year 1994 has decided to remain with USC Heidelberg. In the last months, there was speculation that the 18 year old 185cm guard might move to the Brose Baskets Bamberg, Alba Berlin or FC Bayern Munich, but instead he will play another year in the German PRO A. Last season for uSC Heidelberg, he played 22 games: 7.9ppg, 3.0rpg, 1.2apg, Blocks-4 (1.0bpg), FGP: 56.1%, 3PT-2 (55.3%), FT: 84.6%. "We liked the concept of Heidelberg and thought that Paul could continue to develop especially in the defense and physical area. He has achieved his school degree and now can concentrate on basketball and I am sure that we wll have much fun with his play in the future", stressed Lumani CEO Jan Rohdewald. Zipser is also convinced that he has made the right choice. "Staying in Heidelberg has to do with things on and off the court. I think the PRO A is the right level for this season. With my first basketball pro contract, I will make the first step as a pro and then when I move be able to practice in the morning and evening", stressed Paul Zipser (195-G-94)

Source: lumani107.net

v


Ty The Warrior Shaw Is New TV Langen Head Coach - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber



After a long 10 year playing career, American Ty Shaw (202-F/C-79, college: Idaho Coll.) will take off the jersey and put on the suit as he will be head coach for PRO B team TV Langen. Shaw is not an unknown face in the Hessen city as he played an amazing season in 2006-2007 playing 30 games: 17.3ppg, Reb-5 (10.3rpg), 1.7apg, 2.3spg, 2FGP-1 (67.1%), 3FGP: 28.6%, FT: 68.3%. Last season, the American played a solid season for BV Chemnitz 99 (Germany-ProA) playing 29 games: 8.9ppg, 7.6rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 54.2%, 3PT: 16.0%, FT: 62.8%. Now he is ready to make the next step behind the bench. "My goals for the season are to: develop players individual and team skills, create an extremely intense practice environment that translates to game situations, and as a team, put ourselves in a position to win games. The team is still being put together, but the players we have already signed will be the core of this year's team. A talented group of guys, with great potential to develop and improve throughout the season", added Ty Shaw (202-F/C-79, college: Idaho Coll.).

Source: TV Langen


Eric Vierneisel Moves To BG Karlsruhe - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

PRO A team BG Karlsruhe announced that Eric Vierneisel (201-F-85, college: California) will wear the teams jersey this season. Vierneisel is a 26 year old 201cm forward that not only has numerous experience in Germany, but also has tangled with the big boys in the Beko BBL. Last season, the American from Algonquin,Illinois played for Science City Jena (Germany-ProA): 29 games: 8.0ppg, 2.8rpg, FGP: 52.8%, 3PT: 34.2%, FT: 73.3%. The Baden team gave Vierneisel a one year deal with an option. He scored in double figures 10 times including 14 points against the ETB Wohnbau Baskets Essen. "Eric is definately the right man to give our wing players Rouven Roessler and Jaivon Harris a breather. He will be valuable to the team. He harmonizes very well with Jeremy Black. He has a good charachter, is quiet, but disciplined and lives as a team player and not as solo player. It is nice that our ways meet again in Karlsruhe", stressed BG Karlsruhe head coach Torsten Daume.

Vierneisel started his basketball career at California (NCAA) where he played from 2004-2008. In his four year career, he might never have avergaed more than 5,1ppg, but he got valuable NCAA expereince playing a total of 111 games. His senior year was his strongest as he played 32 games: 5.1ppg, 2.6rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 36.8%, 3Pts: 29.8%, FT: 73.1%. In the summer of 2008, he got his first real taste of being a professional playing for Team Madrid (Eurobasket Summer League in Chicago) and Team Budapest (Eurobasket Summer League in New York) 13ppg; 3rpg. In 2009, he went to Taranaki Mountain Airs (New Zealand-NBL): 15 games: 18.3ppg, 4.6rpg, 1.7apg, 1.1spg, 2FGP: 41.8%, 3PT: 34.4%, FT: 71.4%. In 2009-2010, he arrive din Germany and played for USC Heidelberg (Germany-ProA, starting five): 29 games: 11.1ppg, 3.6rpg, FGP: 58.6%, 3PT: 43.0%, FT: 76.5%. In 2010-2011, he played for Duesseldorf Giants (Germany-1.Bundesliga): 12 games: 4.4ppg, 1.7rpg; in Feb.'11 moved to Science City Jena (Germany-ProA): 8 games: 6.5ppg, 2.4rpg, FGP: 62.5%, 3PT: 40.9%, FT: 83.3%. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been Pac-10 Tournament Finalist -06, Pac-10 Tournament Semifinals -07, All-Eurobasket Summer League in Chicago 1st Team -08, All-Eurobasket Summer League in New York Team -08, and Eurobasket Summer League in New York Winner -08


Source: BG Karlsruhe


U16 European Championship: Four players score 11 points as Germany beat Serbia - by Eurobasket News

Germany U16-Serbia U16 67:60

Four players score 11 points as Germany beat Serbia at the U16 European Championship first game. The German side took 1-0 record after 67:60 win in Group C.
Germany erupted with 19-4 lead in the opening period, but lost all three other quarters. Jovanovic and Nikola Pavlovic (199-PF-96) reduced to 35:24 at the end of the half. Later Starincevic and Vucetic cut it to 39:33, while Stefan Lazarevic (193-SG-96) scored for 43:38. The final push at the end of the frame however allowed the German side to take 53:44 after three quarters. Serbia won the last stanza 16-14 and could cut it to 7 points at the end of the game.
Jan Wimberg (202-G-96), Kevin Casper (199-F-96), Mahir Agva (202-C-96) and Joschka Ferner (200-F-96) top-scored for the winners with 11 points each. Nikola Pavlovic delivered 14 points and 10 rebounds in the losing effort. Ivan Daskalovic (199-SG-96) scored 10, while Stefan Lazarevic collected 9 points and 13 rebounds.

Germany U16: Jan Wimberg 11, Kevin Casper 11, Mahir Agva 11, Joschka Ferner 11
Serbia U16: Nikola Pavlovic 14+10 rebs, Ivan Daskalovic 10, Stefan Lazarevic 9+13 rebs


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


Greek team wins in opener of U16 Eurobasket - by Diamadis Farmakis

Greece have eased out to an 75-63 win over Poland in the opening game of Group D action at the U16 European Championship Men in Panevezys, Lithuania. More details:

After Poland opened scoring through a pair of free throws from Kamil Zywert, Manos Manouselis' men dutifully replied, going on a 19-9 scoring run to develop a lead that never truly looked threatened for the remainder of the night, as Greece dominated inside the paint, picking up over half their points under the hoop, whilst at the other end of the court Poland struggled to convert from anywhere on the court, going at just 22-for-65 from the field.

Vasileios Charalampopoulos (199-F-97) lead Greece with 17 points and eight rebounds whilst Dimitrios Stamatis chipped in with 15.

Kamil Zywert and Artur Wlodarczyk both finished with 15 points for the Polish.

Tomorrow Poland will be looking to reverse their fortunes when they take on France whilst Greece take on the Czech Republic in the final game of day two action.


Dimitrios Mavroeidis officially joins Olympiakos - by Eurobasket News

As expected, Dimitrios Mavroeidis (208-C-85, agency: FCM) officially became a new member of Olympiakos. According to local media, the player also had an offer from Panathinaikos. Mavroeidis arrives to the reigning Euroleague and Greek champions from Spanish Bilbao, where he had 4.6 ppg and 3.5 rpg for 19 Euroleague games last season. In Liga Endesa, Mavroeidis registered 3.6 ppg and 3.4 rpg. Dimitrios Mavroeidis joined Bilbao in two years ago from Marousi. He played for the Greek squad from 2007 to 2010 and before that Mavroeidis was a member of Panionios and Peristeri. Last summer he joined Greek National Team for the EuroBasket in Lithuania. He appeared 8 times at this event averaging 2.1 points. Earlier this month the player had 7 ppg and 2.3 rpg for 3 games at the Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Caracas. In 2009, Mavroeidis played for Greek B National Team.


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


CAI Zaragoza to sign 3-year deal with Henk Norel - by Eurobasket News

CAI Zaragoza will sign Henk Norel (212-F/C-87) to a 3-year deal, according to Solobasket.com. The 24-year-old big guy is a product of Joventut Badalona, where he moved as a teenager. Last season Norel appeared 28 times in Liga Endesa averaging 6.9 points and 4.5 rebounds. In 2010/11, the player had 6.4 ppg and 4.8 rpg. Norel got injured in January of 2011 and missed rest of the season. In the past, Henk Norel played on loan for Alicante and Prat. He also has experience from Demon Astronauts Amsterdam.
Henk Norel played for Dutch National Team in Qualifications to European Championships Division B 2011. He exploded with 26.7 ppg, 11 rpg and 3.3 apg for 3 games. In 2009, Norel played for his country at EuroBasket Division B. There he had 8.8 ppg and 3.3 rpg in 4 games.


U16 European Championship: Third quarter brings Portugal success over Netherlands - by Eurobasket News

Netherlands U16-Portugal U16 40:48

Third quarter brings Portugal success over Netherlands at the U16 European Championship in Division B. Portugal won the game 48:40 in Group D third game of the day.
Portugal won the opening tip 5-0 and did not allow the opponents to score in the first 5 minutes of the game. Yannick Franke (185-G-96) later reduce to 12:7 at the end of the quarter and Joey Liem (175-SG-96) brought the Dutch side 14:12. Moreover the Dutch side created a 14-0 run that gave them 19:12 midway through the second frame. Joey Liem later nailed three to close the period at 25:16. The third quarter however fully belonged to Portugal. Brito tied the game at 27:27 and then Francisco Amiel (186-PG-96) scored for 36:29. Salamanca increased the lead to 10 points early in the last period, while Francisco Amiel delivered two for 43:32. Portugal saved a 8-point victory to seal the win in the opener.
Francisco Amiel top-scored for the winners with 12 points and Sergio da Silva (191-SG-96) posted 11. Benvindo Mendes (200-C-96) followed them with 8 points in a win. Yannick Franke delivered 13 and Joey Liem notched 12.

Netherlands U16: Yannick Franke 13, Joey Liem 12
Portugal U16: Francisco Amiel 12, Sergio da Silva 11, Benvindo Mendes 8


U20 European Championship: Austria conquer Group G - by Eurobasket News

Netherlands U20-Austria U20 61:64

Austria conquer Group G of the Classification Round for 9-18 places at the U20 European Championship in Division B. The Austrian side won over Netherlands 64:61 for 3-0 record. Netherlands suffered the first loss and fell at 2-1 record.
Both teams struggled for the victory that ensured the top place in the group. Both of then scored 16 points each in the first period and only after that Austria needed 14-9 surge to win the half 30:25. Moreover Zulic and Maximilian Hopfgartner (206-PF-92) increased the lead at 10 points and Daniel Friedrich (182-PG-92) scored for 41:33. Netherlands however was too late to give up and grabbed 46:45 advantage early in the last period. Bart Stolk (206-C-93) scored for 53:50 and Aarts added two for 55:52. Austria meanwhile responded with 11-0 run and took 63:55. No matter how hard the Dutch team tried to recover they could not win the game.
Maximilian Hopfgartner paced all the winners with 23 points and Daniel Friedrich added 13. Bart Stolk finished the game with 22 points, while Ivan Filipan (193-G/F-92) scored 14 in defeat.

Netherlands U20: Bart Stolk 22, Ivan Filipan 14
Austria U20: Maximilian Hopfgartner 23, Daniel Friedrich 13


Stepco BS Weert Extends Besseling, Padberg - by Fred Roggen

Stepco BS Weert has reached an agreement with forward Sjors Besseling (198-F-85, agency: Court Side) and forward Joost Padberg (202-F/C-91) to extend their respective contracts, the club announced Thursday.
Sjors Besseling inked a one-year deal with the DBL team. He averaged 8.6ppg, 3.4rpg, 1.6apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 43.0%, 3PT: 40.7%, FT: 70.8% in 27 Dutch basketball league
games last season.
Meanwhile, Joost Padberg inked a one-year extension with Stepco BSW. Thornton, averaged 2,1 points, 1.9 rebounds in 20 Dutch basketball league games last season.


University of Groningen, one win, one lose at EUSA 2012 - by Fred Roggen

Vutautas Magnus University took the lead from the very beginning and dominated the court. They finished the first period with 19-19 and never looked behind after. The Lithuanians added 18-27 in the second frame and led 12 points at the halftime. The court was dominated by only one team-Vutautas Magnus University.
The second half also belonged to the favourites. In the second half they added 38-47 to seal the victory.

Today the University of Groningen outsmart Spanish Tech. University Catalonia at the EUSA 2012.
The Dutch team from Head coach Hans Nieboer improved to a 1-2 record after a 53-51 win against the Spanish team.


Cajasol Banca Civica Sevilla adds Dutch teen-prospect Casper Wildemast - by Fred Roggen

Cajasol Banca Civica Sevilla adds Dutch teen-prospect Casper Wildemast.
The 17-year-old Casper Wildemast, a Dutch teen-prospect, goes next season to the Spanish ACB club Cajasol Banca Civica Sevilla. The 2.12m long Casper Wildemast comes from Geldrop and was born on January 11, 1995, at the age of fourteen he went to EiffelTowers, now it is time to take the next step by going to Spain. Last season he played in the U18 Academy team of Eiffel Towers Den Bosch.


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


U16 European Championship: Hungary cruise past Norway - by Eurobasket News

Hungary U16 - Norway U16 90:41

Hungary clinched the opening win at U16 European Championship in Division B. They knocked down Norwegian counterparts in Bucharest to improve at 1-0 record in Group D. Viktor Zrinyi (205-C-97) came up with 17 points and 9 rebounds to pace the winners.
Hungary jumped into an early lead. They secured a 21:15 lead ten minutes into the encounter. Hungary maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. They established a 33:23 halftime advantage. Hungary boosted the margin in the third term. They unloaded 28 points to take a 29-point buffer heading into the fourth frame. Norway conceded 29 points in the final quarter to suffer a heavy defeat. Levente Nagy (194-SG-96) accounted for 15 points, while Csanad Antoni (193-SF-96) added 13 points for the winners. Harald Frey (174-PG-97) answered with 9 points for Norway. Anders Nymo (177-PG-96) and Sjur Berg (196-PF-96) netted 8 points each in the loss.

Hungary U16: Viktor Zrinyi 17, Levente Nagy 15, Csanad Antoni 13
Norway U16: Harald Frey 9, Anders Nymo 8, Sjur Berg 8


U20 European Championship: Portugal grab 3-0 record in Group H - by Eurobasket News

Portugal U20-Hungary U20 61:55

Portugal grab 3-0 record in Group H at the U20 European Championship in Division B. The team overcame Hungary 61:55 in Sofia. The latter fell at 0-3 record.
Hungary won the opening tip 5-1 and then Zoltan Czinger (215-C-93) scored for 7:4. Portugal meanwhile finished the first period with a 6-0 run and took 13:9 advantage. Again Hungary took the lead in the second period and erupted with a defensive 14-3 run. Kovacs and Zoltan Czinger closed the half at 23:16, but Hungary could not win. Rafael Wildner (207-C/F-92) tied the game at 28:28, while Lakosa and Tursics tied it again at 37:37. Portugal dominated the last period and produced a 24-18 in it. Miguel Cardoso (184-PG-93) finished the game from the free throw line for the final result.
Rafael Wildner top-scored for the winners with 21 points and Miguel Cardoso added 15. Peter Jakab (187-G-93) answered with 12 points and Zoltan Czinger posted 10.

Portugal U20: Rafael Wildner 21, Miguel Cardoso 15
Hungary U20: Peter Jakab 12, Zoltan Czinger 10


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  ISRAEL   


Maccabi Tel-Aviv signs 2-year deal with Rakim Sanders, loans him to Galil/Gilboa for 2012/13 - by Eurobasket News

According to David Pick, Maccabi Tel-Aviv signed a 2-year deal with rookie Rakim Sanders (195-G/F-89). Pick also confirmed that Maccabi will loan him to Galil/Gilboa for the next season. Sanders graduated at Fairfield University few months ago. He played 33 games for the school as a senior averaging 16.8 points, 8.3 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.4 steals. He led Fairfield to MAC Tournament Finals and was named to All-MAAC 1st Team -12. Sanders participated at Portsmouth Invitational Tournament (Pre-NBA Draft) this year. He shined there with 19.3 ppg and 8.7 ppg for 3 games and was named to All-Portsmouth Invitational Tournament Team -12. Rakim Sanders transferred to Fairfield two years ago from the Boston College. He was redshirted in 2010/11 due to NCAA transfer rules. With Boston College, Sanders had 11.3 ppg, 3.7 rpg and 2.1 apg in 2009/10.


U20 European Championship: Israel grab the last ticket to Final Four - by Eurobasket News

Belgium U20-Israel U20 66:69

Israel grab the last ticket to Final Four of the U20 European Championship in Division B. The team overcame Belgium 69:66 in a thriller to take 2-1 record in Group E.
It was the game for the last ticket from Group E to the semifinal. Both teams started strong, but Belgium took 22:11 after the first 10 minutes. Moreover they added 20-15 in the second frame and enjoyed 16-point advantage at the halftime. Belgium made everything they could to win the game but reduce to 3 final points. They won the third quarter 19-13 and added 21-14 in the last stanza. Elias Lasisi (192-G/F-92) gave them 66:64 lead, but Or Solomon (197-F-93) and Bar Timor (191-PG-92, agency: Avi Zilberman) brought the victory for the opponents.
Bar Timor top-scored for the winners with 20 points and Or Solomon nailed 16. Oz Blayzer (199-F-92) collected 14 points and 14 rebounds, while Shawn Dawson (193-SF-93) added 10. Elias Lasisi erupted with 34 points in the losing effort as Belgium finished with 1-2 record on the last place in the group. Khalid Boukichou (208-C-92) had 12 points and 10 rebounds, whilst Obasohan Ojomoh (183-PG-93) scored 11.

Belgium U20: Elias Lasisi 34, Khalid Boukichou 12+10 rebs, Obasohan Ojomoh 11
Israel U20: Bar Timor 20, Or Solomon 16, Oz Blayzer 14+14 rebs, Shawn Dawson 10


National League Updates - by Netanel Dahan

Hapoel Afula announced that they have reached an extension agreement with their HC Avner Yeor , and their local wing players Elad Eliyah (193-F/G-85) and Elad Knafo and they will keep wearing the Red&White jersey next season as well.

Ironi Nes Ziona also managed to keep their star player Tal Michael Dunne (197-F-87) for the next season.

Avi Eliyahu (175-G-87) signed in Beer Yaakov last season finalist.

Haran Shifman (183-G-84) has recived a Polish nationality, that being said he wants to play abroad with the help of his new status.


Shivek, Israel Claim Ukraine Exhibition Tourney Title - by David Pick

Without 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 injured team-captain Yotam Halperin, head coach Arik Shivek and his Israeli national team completed an impressive 3-0 sweep over Belarus, Romania and host Ukraine in the Ukrainian exhibition tournament in preparation of Israel's 2013 European Championship Qualifying games.

Led by ex-Gator and its new Israeli citizen Alex Tyus, sharpshooter Guy Pnini and dazzling playmaker Yogev Ohayon, Israel overpowered the Ukraine and its NBA broadcasting color analyst coach Mike Fratello, 74-68.

Prior to tip-off, both teams joined at center court for a moment of silence in memory of the fallen Israelis in yesterday's terror attack in Bulgaria. The Israeli players also wore black shoulder stripes on their jerseys.

Tyus began the encounter strong scoring 7 of Israel's first 11 points (11-9), but the Ukraine fought back and took a 26-21 lead after one. Steve Burtt upped the hosts' lead during the second period to 30-23 and 33-25, before taking a minimal 43-41 advantage into intermission.

In the third period, Israel rallied back behind points from Elishay Kadir, Nitzan Hanochi and Guy Pnini, en route to a 56-55 lead.

Ohayon and Burtt exchanged fourth quarter buckets, but Israel had the upper hand with three minutes to play (70-63). The Ukraine player's missed a number of consecutive treys and Gal Mekel found Tyus for an impressive ally-oop to seal the deal.

Scorers: Tyus 17 points & 6 boards, Pnini 13 & 6 assists, Ohayon 12, Kadir 10 & 8 rebounds, Mekel 7, Kozikaro 6, Naimy and Hanochi 3 points each, Nissim 2 and Kokia 1.


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  ITALY   


U16 European Championship: Italy pip Croatia in the opener - by Eurobasket News

Italy U16- Croatia U16 77:63

Italy pip Croatia in the opener of the U16 European Championship. The Italian team started the campaign with 77:63 victory in Ventspils.
It was Croatia that started with 23-13 in the first period. They could not however keep the lead and lost the game. Italy needed the whole second quarter to tie the game at 34:34. Croatia took the lead again in the third period and grabbed 40:34. Italy meanwhile needed a strong end of the period for 50:49 lead at the end of the quarter. Italy added massive 27-14 in the last stanza to seal the victory.
Pierfrancesco Oliva (200-SF-96) top-scored for the winners with 27 points and 13 rebounds. Daniel Donzelli (199-SG-96) collected 17 points and 12 boards, while Federico Mussini (179-PG-96) scored 10. Marko Arapovic (207-C/F-96) collected 22 points and 10 rebounds in the losing effort and Luka Bozic (188-PG-96) had 13. Roko Dominovic (189-PG-96) delivered 10 and Emir Sabic (186-PG-96) nailed 6.

Italy U16: Pierfrancesco Oliva 27+13 rebs, Daniel Donzelli 17+12 rebs, Federico Mussini 10
Croatia U16: Marko Arapovic 22+10 rebs, Luka Bozic 13, Roko Dominovic 10, Emir Sabic 6


Lance Harris heads to Cremona - by Eurobasket News

Lance Harris (195-G-84, college: Kansas St.) heads to Cremona for the upcoming season. According to La Provincia di Cremona the Italian team added the American player to the roster.
In 2011-2012 for Politekhnika-Halychyna (Ukraine-Superleague, starting five) he averaged 16.3ppg, 4.4rpg, 3.2apg, FGP: 50.7%, 3PT: 28.9%, FT: 64.8%.
The guard started the previous season in Bosnia. He played for Igokea Aleksandrovac. His stats read 9.8 points, 3.3 rebounds and 1.3 steals per game in Adriatic League. Later Lans Harris moved to Ikaros in Greece. The guard notched 13.7 points, 4.1 rebounds and 1.5 assists per game in A1 League. Lans Harris finished the season in Italy. He produced 9.8 points, 5.2 rebounds and 1.4 steals per LegaDue appearance for Umana Reyer. Lans Harris was Greek All-Star Game Slam Dunk Contest winner in 2011.


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  LATVIA   


U16 European Championship: The hosts fail to Spain in Ventspils - by Eurobasket News

Latvia U16-Spain U16 63:65

The hosts fail to Spain in Ventspils at the U16 European Championship. The Latvian side was unable to produce the result hometown fans were hoping for, agonizingly falling to Spain 63:65 in the opening Group B game.
Spain took 19:16 after the first 10 minutes and added 25-17 in the second frame. Marc Bauza (205-C-96) and Alonso scored for 44:33 as the teams went to the lockers. The third quarter belonged to the home side as Rihards Lomazs (175-PG-96) reduced to 44:41. Ricards Melderis (185-PG-96) and Adnam Omeragic (200-F-96) exchanged the shots for 54:47 at the end of the third period and Rauls Avenitis (180-PG-96) cut it to 56:52. Rauls Avenitis also managed to tie the game at 58:58, while Feikners made the same at 61:61. Latvia however could not take the lead and allowed Spain to win the thriller. Adnam Omeragic and Marc Garcia (194-F-96) scored the free throws at the end to seal the victory.
Marc Garcia top-scored for the winners with 13 points and Adnam Omeragic nailed 12. Martinez finished the game with 11 points, while Marc Bauza scored 9. Rauls Avenitis produced 16 points in defeat, whilst Meznieks-Zahars had 12. Rihards Lomazs and Ricards Melderis ended up with 8 points each in a loss.

Latvia U16: Rauls Avenitis 16, Meznieks-Zahars 12. Rihards Lomazs 8, Ricards Melderis 8
Spain U16: Marc Garcia 13, Adnam Omeragic 12, Martinez 11, Marc Bauza 9


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  LEBANON   


Riyadi end their Skills Development Camp - by Ahmad Kerdi

Prior to the first phase of the season preparations, AL Riyadi Club ended their Skills Development Camp of young prospects who will have a big impact on the club's future.
Camp was lead by Coach Jade Fattouh and Coach Ahmad Farran and lasted for 5 weeks before ending it in two friendly games during festivals in Shhim and Mazboud.
Training sessions focused on improving individual skills and preparing those talents for the big responsibility they will have soon when representing the first team as well as the youth national teams.
Team stopped training now, players Wael Arakji, Karim Tbaja and Jimy Salem will continue their preparations with the U18 national team while veterans started practicing with the senior national team.
Al Riyadi senior team will start their official season preparations on August 15th with an altitude camp in the Lebanese city "Bologna" under Coach Slobodan Subotic and both Coaches Jade Fattouh and Farran.
Club will be under big pressure since players from both national teams won't be able to join till few days prior to the Asian Clubs Championships which will limit their roster to less than 8 players.
Ismail Ahmad and Loren Woods will rejoin the team this season leading same Lebanese roster in addition to Forward Ahmad Ibrahim and Guards Miguel Martinez and Ralf Akl to defend the Asian title before trying to regain their Lebanese League Championship that they lost due to the withdrew in semi-finals of last year.


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  LITHUANIA   


Valanciunas officially a Raptor - by Eurobasket News

Anybody worried about whether Jonas Valanciunas (6'11''-C-92) would play for the Toronto Raptors this season can rest easy.

The Lithuanian big mans buyout has been completed and the Raptors announced on Wednesday that the prized rookie, selected fifth overall in 2011, is now under his rookie scale contract.

Valanciunas, 20, stayed in his native Lithuania as were the terms in his buyout agreement with Lietuvos Rytas last year and averaged 14.2 points, 7.4 rebounds and 1.9 blocks against older competition.

We are very pleased to welcome Jonas to the organization, Raptors president and general manager Bryan Colangelo said in a release.

We are certain that Raptors fans will soon realize that the year-long process was worth the wait.

Thats the buzz in NBA circles and the team is counting on Valanciunas, though he will be brought along slowly, to be one of the major blocks in the foundation moving forward.

The 7-foot, 250 pound centre will play for Lithuania at the 2012 Olympic Games in London.

He has previously dominated in competitions against those his own age leading Lithuania to multiple gold medals and winning various tournament MVP awards over the years.

Valanciunas also was named 2011 FIBA Europe Young Mens Player of the Year and won the Eurocup rising star trophy for best player under-22.

While all rookie big men take time to make an impact and international players must adjust to the NBA game, Valanciunas three years spent competing against grown men overseas should help him.

Raptors forward Amir Johnson, like most of his teammates, is intrigued after hearing about Valanciunas for an entire year.

Nice, nice, I want to check that guy out, Johnson said when informed about the signing minutes after it was announced.

Many in Toronto feel the same way.

Courtesy of www.torontosun.com


U16 European Championship: Lithuania pip Slovenia in Panevezys - by Eurobasket News

Lithuania U16-Slovenia U16 82:76

Lithuania pip Slovenia in Panevezys at the start of the U16 European Championship. The Baltic State celebrated a 82:76 win in the opener.
The co-hosts of the U16 European Championship opened the game with 23:14 lead in the first period. Both squads added 22 points to their account in the second frame that brought 45:36 for Lithuania at the halftime. Tautvydas Paliukenas (192-SF-96) and Deividas Zemgulis (194-PF-96) opened the third period making 50:36 and Rupkus scored for 54:44. Budrys later closed the quarter at 58:44 as Lithuania won the third period 13-8. Slovenia had massive 32-24 in the last stanza but could reduce to 6 points at the end.
Domantas Sabonis (199-PF-96) paced all the winners with 22 points and Antanas Krimelis (191-SF-96) netted 17. Tautvydas Paliukenas ended up with 14 points, while Deividas Zemgulis had 13. Matej Kavas (193-G-96) and Tilen Kodrin (202-SF-96) produced 18 points each in the losing effort. Grega Sajevic (183-SG-96) nailed 15, whilst Sandi Grubelic (187-PG-96) had 9.

Lithuania U16: Domantas Sabonis 22, Antanas Krimelis 17, Tautvydas Paliukenas 14, Deividas Zemgulis 13
Slovenia U16: Matej Kavas 18, Tilen Kodrin 18, Grega Sajevic 15, Sandi Grubelic 9


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  LUXEMBOURG   


U16 European Championship: Belarus open with win - by Eurobasket News

Belarus U16 - Luxembourg U16 67:63

Belarus celebrated the first win at the U16 European Championship. They held off Luxembourg in Group A opener. Maksim Salash (203-C-96) scored 20 points and grabbed 17 rebounds to lead the winners.
Belarus had to deal with a big deficit after a sloppy start. Luxembourg earned a 27:17 lead ten minutes into the encounter. Belarus cut the deficit in the second quarter. They trailed by 9 points at halftime 44:35. The Belarusian team limited their opponents to 9 points in the third term and narrowed the gap at 4-point mark at the final intermission. Belarus went on a 10:0 run late in regulation and sealed the starting victory. Roman Rubinshteyn (190-PG-96) delivered 16 points for Belarus. Uladzislau Kandybovic (190-G-96) had 8 points and 8 rebounds in the win. Oliver Vujakovic (192-F-96) answered with 19 points and 9 rebounds for Luxembourg. Timothy Kauffmann (191-F-96) provided 15 points and 10 rebounds in the losing effort.

Belarus U16: Maksim Salash 20+17 boards, Roman Rubinshteyn 16, Uladzislau Kandybovic 8
Luxembourg U16: Oliver Vujakovic 19, Timothy Kauffmann 15+10 boards


U20 European Championship: Slovak Republic closed Day 7 with the win - by Eurobasket News

Slovak Republic U20- Luxembourg U20 76:52

Slovak Republic closed Day 7 with the win at the U20 European Championship in Division B. The winning side improved to 2-1 record in Group G after 76:52 victory over Luxembourg. The latter fell at 0-4 record on the bottom of the group.
Luxembourg surprised the opponents with 15:14 in the first period, but could not keep the lead. Maurizio Galata (203-F-92) and Dedecek scored for 18:15 and then Slovak Republic pushed the tempo for good. Maurizio Galata and Matus Luley (195-F-92) closed the half at 32:25 and then Slovak Republic added 18-17 in the third quarter. Dedecek nailed three for 60:44, while Maurizio Galata added few more for 65:44. Slovak Republic also won the end of the game with an 8-0 run to seal a comfortable victory.
Maurizio Galata top-scored for the winners with 21 points and Andrej Galad (200-F-92) as well as Jaroslav Moravek (204-F/C-92) posted 11 each. Matus Luley collected 10 points and 11 rebounds in defeat. Louis Arendt (187-F/G-93) ended up with 23 points in the losing effort, while Max Schmit (182-PG-92) and Tom Welter (186-G-93) had 8 each.

Slovak Republic U20: Maurizio Galata 21, Andrej Galad 11, Jaroslav Moravek 11, Matus Luley 10+11 rebs
Luxembourg U20: Louis Arendt 23, Max Schmit 8, Tom Welter 8


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  MONTENEGRO   


Buducnost resigned Vitkovac, Krstovic left the team - by Darko Pekic

The reigning champion of Montenegro, Buducnost, will enter the new with a couple of important changes. After the departure of Bojan Dubljevic (205-C-91, agency: Beo Basket) who signed with Valencia, the club from Podgorica announced yesterday the mutal termination of the contract with experienced Serb Bojan Krstovic (194-G-80, agency: Interperformances).

Krstovic had a solid season in Adriatic League and Eurocup but he was expected to contribute more and as he was one of the highest earners in the team, the management decided to offer him a mutual termination of his contract which was accepted by Krstovic and his agent.

And that's not all. Cedomir Vitkovac (201-F-82, agency: Beo Basket) signed a one year extension and he will wear blue & white jersey next season also. The future of Jermaine Anderson (188-G-83, college: Fordham) is still undecided although the player would like to stay in Podgorica but the problem for Buducnost's reduced budget is his high wage. He is a free agent and can choose the best offer. Also Matt Bouldin (196-G-88, college: Gonzaga)'s future is uncertain. He had a poor season and the question is what will Dejan Radonjic (agency: Beo Basket ) do with him.

Buducnost is looking for a center and a point guard.


Marko Todorovic leaves Juventud and joins Barcelona - by Darko Pekic

The talented big man of U21 National Team Montenegro Marko Todorovic (210-C/F-92) who had to miss the European Championship in Slovenia due to a fist injury decided to leave Juventud Badalona and join their arch rival Barcelona! Podgorica native, born in 1992, had a great season in LEB Silver aputting up great numbers for Juventud's afiliate CB Prat- 15.8 ppg, 8.2 rp and 1.2 bpg.

Todorovic started his career in KK Junior and he is one of the most successful products of the basketball wizard Jadran Vujacic along with Nikola Mirotic (207-F/C-91), Nikola Ivanovic (187-G-94, agency: Beo Basket) and Andrej Pajovic (188-G-92). According to Eurobasket.com sources in Spain Todorovic will be loaned to Barcelona's exciting young team that plays in Spanish second division along with Marcus Eriksson (196-G/F-93), Alexandr Zigulin (205-F-94) and probably one of the best talents in the world Mario Hezonja (202-G/F-95) who is close to sign with Barcelona. Barcelona's future will certainly be bright with them.


Buducnost Voli to sign Bulgarian top prospect Pavlin Ivanov and Serbian Dusko Bunic - by Eurobasket News

Buducnost Voli is set to sign a deal with Bulgarian top prospect Pavlin Ivanov (195-G-93, agency: Beo Basket) and Serbian Dusko Bunic (207-C-89, agency: Beo Basket), according to Serbian media (Zurnal.rs). Reportedly, Ivanov will sign a 4-year deal with Montenegrin powerhouse, while Bunic will sign for the next 3 years.
Pavlin Ivanov led Bulgaria to Gold medal last summer at U18 EuroBasket Division B in Varna. He exploded with 18.3 ppg, 4.4 rpg and 2 spg for 7 games at this event. Ivanov was named MVP of the championship.


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  NBA   


Antawn Jamison signs with Lakers - by Eurobasket News

The Lakers took a strong step toward improving one of the worst reserve units in the league, agreeing to terms with free-agent forward Antawn Jamison (6'9''-F-76, college: N.Carolina).

Jamison, 36, averaged 17.2 points and 6.3 rebounds last season with Cleveland and received more lucrative offers from other teams, but none had the playoff potential of the Lakers. He also considered Charlotte and New Jersey.

He will receive the veteran's minimum of $1.4 million for one season, a steep drop from the $15.1 million he made last season with the Cavaliers.

Jamison can play both forward positions, though he is not expected to dislodge incumbent starter Metta World Peace at small forward.

He has shot 45.1%, including 34.1% from three-point range, over his career. The Lakers will try to use him to stretch the court and inject life into a punchless group of reserves.

The problems with Jamison are his age and his shooting percentage last season. The 14-year veteran can't do much about the former, but the Lakers hope he can improve the latter. He shot only 40.3% last season, low for a 6-foot-9 player.

Before Jamison, the Lakers' backups were Steve Blake, Josh McRoberts, Darius Morris, Andrew Goudelock and Christian Eyenga. The agent for Devin Ebanks recently told The Times his client would sign the Lakers' one-year contract offer for about $1 million, though the Lakers have yet to receive the signed agreement.

With Ebanks, the above group averaged only 18.8 points combined last season, an unimpressive aggregate.

The Lakers also picked up two players late in the second round of the draft: Marquette guard Darius Johnson-Odom and Gonzaga center Robert Sacre. It's unlikely both will make the team.

The Lakers continue to negotiate with Jordan Hill, an unrestricted free-agent forward-center who has drawn interest from a handful of teams. The Lakers want him back but won't go too deep financially to make it happen. Courtesy of www.foxsportswest.com


Trail Blazers sign Ronnie Price - by Eurobasket News

The Portland Trail Blazers have signed guard Ronnie Price (6'2''-G-83, college: Utah Valley), it was announced today by General Manager Neil Olshey.

A seven-year NBA veteran, Price, 29, has played for Sacramento, Utah and Phoenix. In 355 career games (33 starts), he has averaged 3.6 points, 1.1 rebounds, 1.4 assists and 11.5 minutes per game.

Ronnie gives us a different look in the backcourt and we feel hell be a nice complement to the players we have in place, said Olshey. He works out with Damian Lillard in the summer and has played with Wesley Matthews in Utah, so there is some built-in chemistry there that we like.

Price (6-2, 190) appeared in 36 games, including eight starts, for Phoenix last season. The Friendswood, Texas, native averaged 3.6 points, 1.6 rebounds, 1.9 assists and 14.4 minutes in his only season with the Suns.

Undrafted out of college in 2005, Price signed with the Kings as a free agent. He averaged 24.3 points, 4.2 rebounds and 3.0 assists as a senior at Utah Valley State.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com


Tornike Shengelia to sign with Nets - by Eurobasket News

Tornike Shengelia (6'10''-F-91) just wanted a chance to prove his worth. In the process, he earned a roster spot.

A source told The Post Wednesday that Shengelia will sign a two-year deal with the Nets this week, completing an improbable journey over the past few weeks from draft night afterthought to earning a roster spot following an impressive showing with the Nets entry in the Orlando Summer League.

The Nets acquired the 6-foot-8 forwards draft rights from Philadelphia last month after the 76ers took him with the 54th overall selection.

Nets general manager Billy King said on draft night that Shengelia likely would return to Europe next season, after he spent last year playing with Spirou Charleroi in the Belgian League, where he averaged 7.6 points and 3.8 rebounds in 12 Euroleague games.

But Shengelia pushed to play on the Nets Summer League team to prove he was ready to come over now, and when the Nets gave him a spot, he took advantage of the opportunity.

Shengelia, who can play both forward positions, was one of the most impressive performers for the Nets in Orlando. He averaged 10.2 points, 3.6 rebounds and shot 53 percent from the field in five games. His best performance came, ironically, against the Sixers on July 11, when he finished with 17 points, six rebounds and two assists in 27 minutes.

In order to bring Shengelia over for next season, the Nets almost certainly paid all of his $300,000 buy-out with Charleroi. NBA teams are allowed to contribute up to $550,000 toward a players buy-out.

Including Shengelia and Keith Bogans, who a league source said was likely to sign with the team in the near future, the Nets will have filled 13 of their 15 available roster spots for next season.

Courtesy of www.nypost.com


Jeremy Lin says he 'preferred' a return to the NY Knicks over joining Houston Rockets - by Eurobasket News

Jeremy Lin's (6'3''-PG-88, college: Harvard) stunning departure has some Knicks fans blaming James Dolan and others swearing to switch allegiances to the Brooklyn Nets. But if you think Lins exit was handled poorly, his arrival in Houston was just as awkward.

On the eve of his introductory press conference with the Rockets, Lin told SI.com that he preferred New York and loves the New York fans to death, despite signing a three-year, $25 million offer sheet with the Western Conference club last Friday. A few hours after Lin made it known that his top choice was to re-sign with the Knicks, he released a statement pledging his loyalty to his new employer.

Now I am excited to be back with the Rockets, said Lin, who was cut by Houston last December before joining the Knicks. They made a very compelling pitch in terms of what I could bring to the team and for the city.

What made Houstons pitch all the more compelling was a balloon payment of $14.9 million in the third year of the deal. It was that new wrinkle in the contract that infuriated Dolan, the chairman of Madison Square Garden. The move accelerated the end of Lins run in New York after 35 games and 25 starts.

The day after the payment was added to Lins pact, the Knicks sent shock waves through the NBA by acquiring point guard Raymond Felton from Portland, a move that meant they would not match the Rockets offer. Three days later, Knicks GM Glen Grunwald called Lin at his parents house in Palo Alto, Calif., to inform him of the clubs decision.

We wanted to keep you but it couldnt work out, Lin recalled Grunwald saying during an interview with SI.com. Tell your family I say hello, and good luck the rest of the way.

Lin told the website that before Grunwald called he had not spoken to any Knicks officials in over a week and had a feeling that his days were numbered once he learned about the Felton trade.

Feltons signing was the first time when I thought, Oh, wow, I might not be a Knick,? Lin said.

Two weeks earlier, Lin and the Knicks appeared to be on the same page after he flew to Los Angeles to meet with Mike Woodson, Carmelo Anthony, Tyson Chandler and his best friend on the Knicks, Landry Fields, whose offer sheet from Toronto the Knicks later decided not to match. According to Lin, Woodson assured him that he would be the starting point guard and a key part of the team.

I came away really excited, Lin said.

However, when free agency began, Lin wondered if the Knicks were really committed to him. The Knicks top priority appeared to be recruiting Steve Nash, a two-time MVP who not only would have been the starting point guard had he signed with the Knicks but would have played between 33 and 38 minutes a night.

Nash eventually went to the Lakers in a sign-and-trade, and the Knicks responded by signing 39-year-old Jason Kidd. Suddenly, there was mistrust on both sides with the Knicks already upset that Lin hired a publicist without first consulting them.

I knew the Knicks organization wanted him back, Tyson Chandler said after training with the Olympic team in Manchester, England. I know his teammates wanted him back. I felt like Jeremy wanted to come back, but you cant pass up what Houston threw out there.

Neither Dolan, Grunwald nor Woodson has commented publicly, but the company line at MSG is that the decision was strictly financial. That third year could have cost the Knicks as much as $35 million with luxury-tax penalties factored in. However, former Knicks coach Mike DAntoni admitted that he was led to believe the Knicks would keep Lin because they had the right to match the deal.

Im thinking, For sure,? DAntoni said. Even when I was there, well as least we got him, we dont have to worry about him blowing up and us not being able to afford it.

In his interview with SIs Pablo Torres, his former Harvard classmate, Lin painted himself as the ultimate team guy who always followed orders. For example, Lin raised eyebrows before Game 5 against Miami when he ruled himself out despite being 85% healthy. Lin had surgery to repair a torn meniscus in early April and never played again.

Every single vet on our team that has been in the league longer than five years pulled me aside and told me that I shouldnt play, Lin said. And I had arguments with them about why I should.

Ultimately, the decision to play was Lins, not his teammates. Lin even claims that Dolan told him not to play during a conversation they had before Game 5. That was also the last time they spoke.

I have plans for you in the future, Lin says Dolan told him. This is a long-term investment. Dont rush back.

Lin goes to great lengths to avoid responsibility for sitting out a playoff game. He also attempted to clarify what he meant about being 85% healthy by insisting he meant he was 15% away from being able to play. The explanation is confusing at best.

People think it was easy for me to sit there and watch us lose, like I had nothing to do with the season, Lin says. I was dying to play. I didnt miss a game due to injury in seven years until this past season, and people are acting like I wouldnt want to play in the playoffs? Of the NBA? In my first season?

Lin became an instant celebrity in New York once he got a chance to play against the Nets in early February, the night before the Giants beat New England in the Super Bowl. For two weeks, he owned New York and was an international sensation. Linsanity became part of the sports lexicon, and it appeared as if Lin, just 23, would have a long run in New York. From start to finish, he lasted just seven months but wont soon be forgotten.

I love the New York fans to death, Lin says. Thats the biggest reason why I wanted to return to New York. The way they embraced me, the way they supported us this past season, was better than anything Ive ever seen or experienced. Ill go to my grave saying that. What New York did for me was unbelievable. I wanted to play in front of those fans for the rest of my career. Courtesy of www.nydailynews.com


Valanciunas officially a Raptor - by Eurobasket News

Anybody worried about whether Jonas Valanciunas (6'11''-C-92) would play for the Toronto Raptors this season can rest easy.

The Lithuanian big mans buyout has been completed and the Raptors announced on Wednesday that the prized rookie, selected fifth overall in 2011, is now under his rookie scale contract.

Valanciunas, 20, stayed in his native Lithuania as were the terms in his buyout agreement with Lietuvos Rytas last year and averaged 14.2 points, 7.4 rebounds and 1.9 blocks against older competition.

We are very pleased to welcome Jonas to the organization, Raptors president and general manager Bryan Colangelo said in a release.

We are certain that Raptors fans will soon realize that the year-long process was worth the wait.

Thats the buzz in NBA circles and the team is counting on Valanciunas, though he will be brought along slowly, to be one of the major blocks in the foundation moving forward.

The 7-foot, 250 pound centre will play for Lithuania at the 2012 Olympic Games in London.

He has previously dominated in competitions against those his own age leading Lithuania to multiple gold medals and winning various tournament MVP awards over the years.

Valanciunas also was named 2011 FIBA Europe Young Mens Player of the Year and won the Eurocup rising star trophy for best player under-22.

While all rookie big men take time to make an impact and international players must adjust to the NBA game, Valanciunas three years spent competing against grown men overseas should help him.

Raptors forward Amir Johnson, like most of his teammates, is intrigued after hearing about Valanciunas for an entire year.

Nice, nice, I want to check that guy out, Johnson said when informed about the signing minutes after it was announced.

Many in Toronto feel the same way.

Courtesy of www.torontosun.com


Trail Blazers match Timberwolves offer for Nicolas Batum - by Eurobasket News

The Portland Trail Blazers weren't bluffing about Nicolas Batum (6'7''-F-88) after all.

The Blazers matched the Minnesota Timberwolves' four-year offer sheet worth more than $45 million for the restricted free agent, keeping the 23-year-old small forward as new general manager Neil Olshey said they would all along.

Olshey made the announcement on Wednesday in Las Vegas, where the Blazers were participating in the summer league. He said that some of the incentives in Minnesota's offer sheet, which would have pushed the deal past $50 million, were denied by the league.

"The decision was made a long time ago," Olshey told reporters in Las Vegas. "We were never not going to have Nicolas back. We did investigate certain things with Minnesota as a due diligence deal. We wanted to make sure we explored every option to improve our basketball team, but there was never a situation where there was a commensurate package offered back that was attractive enough to let Nicolas go."

Portland's move to keep Batum ended a long and occasionally bitter negotiation between the Blazers and the Timberwolves, who were convinced the French player was the missing piece in a young core that already has Kevin Love and Ricky Rubio.

"We are disappointed that Nicolas Batum will not be on our team and wish him the best in the future," Minnesota general manager David Kahn said. "However, we were prepared for the possibility of this outcome and will move forward with our other plans."

Batum left the French national team, which is preparing for the Olympics, to take a physical in Portland scheduled for Thursday.

Blazers owner Paul Allen tweeted, "Welcome back Nic! And good luck in the Olympics."

Kahn had been interested in Batum for several years and was aggressive when free agency opened at the start of this month. The T'wolves hosted Batum in the first week of July and agreed to terms on an offer sheet on July 6, with Batum's agent saying his client very much preferred Minnesota over staying in Portland.

The T'wolves were hoping that the size of the deal coupled with Batum's stated desire to play under T'wolves coach Rick Adelman and alongside Love and Rubio would be enough to convince the Blazers to agree to a sign-and-trade to bring the versatile swingman to Minnesota.

The two teams spent a week and a half in negotiations, but never could find common ground. Unwilling to part with Derrick Williams and a bevy of draft picks, the T'wolves searched far and wide to add a third team to the mix that would have added some attractive pieces for the Blazers to pull the trigger. The T'wolves offered multiple first-round draft picks and Bulls shooter Kyle Korver in one version of the deal, but that was rejected and Korver instead was traded to Atlanta.

Even when it became apparent that a sign-and-trade wasn't going to happen, the T'wolves pressed on. Owner Glen Taylor said last week that they planned "to call their bluff" and file the offer sheet with the league to see if Olshey was serious about matching any offer. After making a few moves to create the necessary cap room, the T'wolves submitted the offer sheet to the league on Sunday, giving the Blazers three days to match.

While he enjoys living in Portland and playing in front of the Blazers' passionate fans, Batum's agent claimed that his client grew disenchanted with the way he was used by former coach Nate McMillan. Batum was looking for more freedom to go to the rim on offense, and more of an opportunity to display his athleticism, which is why he was hoping to come to Minnesota and play in Adelman's more wide-open offense.

Batum, who is entering his fifth season and averaged 13.9 points and 4.6 rebounds last year, and the Blazers also hit a road block in January, when Portland declined to extend a long-term contract. The Blazers told Batum all along that they wanted to bring him back, but also wanted the cap flexibility to make other moves.

After missing out on center Roy Hibbert when their max offer was matched by the Indiana Pacers, the Blazers appear to be moving forward with Batum, big man LaMarcus Aldridge, shooting guard Wes Matthews and rookie point guard Damian Lillard as they try to retool in the powerful Western Conference.

Olshey said he has been in constant contact with Batum, talking almost every day through the process and wasn't concerned about Batum's stated desire to play in Minnesota.

"He's always expressed a desire to come back to Portland," Olshey said. "His agent did what he needed to do, which is get him the best possible deal for his client. He feels like he did that. Nicolas got his deal, we got our player back and we'll move on."

In some ways, losing out on Batum will still help the T'wolves. They have more than $14 million in cap room now, and are expected to announce agreements with former Blazers guard Brandon Roy and Russian guard Alexey Shved in the coming days.

Minnesota also is interested in Boston Celtics restricted free agent Greg Stiemsma, Los Angeles Lakers power forward Jordan Hill and is expected to pursue Houston Rockets free agent Courtney Lee and Chicago Bulls veteran Ronnie Brewer as contingency plans for Batum.

Courtesy of www.usatoday.com


Dwight Howard shouldn't be skeptical about Lakers - by Eurobasket News

His arrival at Dodger Stadium Tuesday evening encapsulated everything regarding Dwight Howard (6'11''-C-85) during the endless uncertainty regarding his playing future.

As The Times' T.J. Simers observed, the Magic center appeared indecisive on what to eat for dessert. Howard soaked in the cheers Dodger fans gave him when he was featured on the stadium video screen. And afterward, Howard provided little clarity on which NBA team he'll join.

Things even beyond Howard's control have made negotiations drag out. The Times' Mike Bresnahan has reported the Magic have yet to receive assurances Andrew Bynum would sign an extension with them. Orlando hopes the Lakers will absorb some of their expensive contracts. Third parties have become involved so the Magic could find draft picks and the Lakers could find a reasonable suitor for Bynum.

Still, multiple reports in the past season have indicated that Howard has been pretty skeptical about joining the Lakers. But at this point, plenty of Howard's reported concerns should be unfounded.

1. Howard doesn't want to follow in Shaq's footsteps. Why? Just because The Big Diesel might belittle him on TNT? Just because he doesn't want to hear the endless comparisons between two former Magic centers nicknamed "Superman" going to Los Angeles? Just because the Lakers have an impressive lineage of centers, including George Mikan, Wilt Chamberlain, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and O'Neal? Howard should stop acting like this is a bad thing. Embrace it.

2. The Lakers don't give Howard the best chance to win. That may have been true when Howard was still hoping he could join Deron Williams with the Brooklyn Nets. Or before the Lakers secured Steve Nash. But this is a different reality now. Staying in Orlando for another season will just be an endless distraction. Joining New Jersey during next year's free agency appears financially unrealistic. The Dallas Mavericks may have cleared cap space, but lost several pieces of its 2011 championship team.

The Lakers may be aging. But they're still incredibly talented. A Steve Nash-Kobe Bryant-Pau Gasol-Metta World Peace starting lineup would do wonders for Howard's game. He'd have plenty of looks at pick-and-roll with Nash. Howard won't face as many double teams with Bryant and Gasol on the floor. And World Peace will provide plenty of support on defense. All that time lamenting the lack of a supporting cast in Orlando will disappear should Howard put on a Lakers uniform.

3. Howard and Bryant won't mesh well together on the floor. The Lakers' hopes of acquiring Howard earlier this year reportedly turned for the worse after the two had a series of phone conversations. One of the messages entailed Bryant reiterating his stance that he's still running the team and that Howard may have to sacrifice touches for Gasol. It's not exactly an approach most salesmen would take in securing a deal. Bryant was just being brutally honest.

Still, there are ways to work around that. Bryant and Howard have gotten along since playing together in the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Those phone conversations shouldn't permanently fracture their relationship. There may be an ever-evolving dynamic in the offense. But Nash's presence could cause Bryant to step back a bit simply because it would lessen his workload. As he's shown during Andrew Bynum's growth, Bryant has given him strong support in featuring him more in the offense.

That doesn't mean Bryant won't have games where he'll take too many shots. But with his career closing, Bryant's more consumed with winning more championships than tallying as many points as possible. There will ultimately be some give-and-take in ensuring the team operates well as a unit.

4. Howard won't have a team built around him. That's perhaps the case for now. But in only two years, things could drastically change. Bryant's contract ends and he's suggested he may retire at that point. Come to think of it, the contracts of Gasol and World Peace also expire then. A year after that, Nash's deal expires. In Howard's eyes, he shouldn't see this as a massive rebuilding process. The Lakers can still squeeze out two or three titles with this current roster. Howard would then be set up to transition the Lakers into the post-Bryant era, where they will target younger and faster players to help prolong the championship run.

5. Howard wants to build a stronger brand. For some reason, Howard senses that's only possible in New York. Since when isn't that possible in Los Angeles? Once he sets foot in Staples Center, every Hollywood celebrity will embrace him, invite him to red carpet events and pitch on-screen cameos. As the winning builds, so will his marketing brands. Should Howard arrive here, he'll love the spotlight so much he won't be able to leave.

Courtesy of www.latimes.com


Las Vegas Summer League: Day Six recap - by Eurobasket News

The basketball marathon that is the Las Vegas NBA Summer League is now past the half way point. Day 6 for me brought two new players to evaluate and a final look at the Houston Rockets and Washington Wizards.

Here is how the action played out on Day 6.

Milwaukee Bucks: John Henson (6'11''-F-90, college: N.Carolina) made a very strong showing on Day 6. He is just as skinny and tall as advertised but he was extremely active on both ends of the floor. The defense challenged him to shoot jumpers and he seemed content to oblige. He kind of uncoils his jumper with rotation that would make the earths axis jealous. That thing is spinning when he releases it but its not particularly accurate. He showed some promising footwork on the block with one very nimble up and under move. Henson showed an ability to score with either hand on the post when he wasnt getting pushed off his spot. He had good defensive principles showing the right amount of help on pick and rolls and changing shots instead of trying to block everything. 20 points and 9 rebounds for Henson on Day 6.

Doron Lamb (6'4''-G-91, college: Kentucky) scored 12 points with 3 rebounds. He was content to let the offensive come to him as he shot the majority of his shots from the baseline. He didnt show a particularly great ability or desire to beat his man off the dribble to get to the rim. But like I said he was patient and played within the flow of the offense. He is going to get hit a lot as he is not always balanced on his jumper. That will cause defenders to run into him often and potentially send Lamb to the line frequently. He struggled a bit on defense which could be a trend moving forward.

Larry Sanders (6'11''-F-88, college: VCU) still seems a bit mechanical on anything he does that is not a dunk or attempted block shot. I am just not a huge fan of his game.

Tobias Harris (6'8''-F-92, college: Tennessee) was the best player on the floor with 24 points and 12 rebounds. He is a good slashing forward with post up ability. If his feet are set he can hit jumpers with range out to three. He was best served staying within 16 feet or less but was impressive overall.

Washington Wizards: Bradley Beal (6'3''-SG-93, college: Florida) scored 18 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. His jumper was short most of the day probably due to tired legs. When he drove to the basket he was golden showing the ability to beat his man off the dribble without the help of picks. Overall I found Beal to be just as good as advertised and he should help the Wizards immediately in the regular season.

Chicago Bulls: Jimmy Butler (6'7''-G/F-89, college: Marquette) could vie for serious minutes off the Bulls bench if he can continue to play anywhere near the level he has at summer league thus far. Butler delivered 24 points and 7 rebounds showing the ability to get to the line with his aggressive drives to the basket. Butler connected on 11-12 free throws to boost his points total on Day 6. With Kyle Korver out of the picture in Chicago, Butler should slide into those minutes even though he isnt the shooter Korver is. Two very impressive games for Butler so far.

Marquis Teague (6'2''-PG-93, college: Kentucky) is currently the only healthy point guard on the Bulls roster. That doesnt bode well for Chicago heading into the regular season. He had some success getting into the lane today but isnt particularly adept at finishing over bigger defenders. Speaking of defense, he isnt a good defender at all and if he cant defend in summer league he will have major problems against NBA starters.

Houston Rockets: All of their rookies are good (Jones, White, Lamb, & Motiejunas) and have impressed me at some point during the week. Today Scott Machado played his best game with 20 points and 6 assists. Keep in mind it came against the defenseless Teague. Machado got a little shot happy when he realized Teague couldnt defend him but relaxed towards the end of the game to get others involved. He should make the Houston roster as a backup for Jeremy Lin.

Phoenix Suns: Kendall Marshall (6'3''-PG-91, college: N.Carolina) did nothing to sway me from my Jason Kidd comparison. Again that is todays Jason Kidd. Marshall is a very reluctant shooter but has a good looking stroke as most lefties do. His stroke is usually off target unfortunately. I will say he has good size which allows him to see over the smaller point guards at summer league. He makes good passes into the post that put his guys in position to score and appears to be a natural leader on the floor. But his shot is just flat out awful, 1-10 from the floor for just 4 points and 5 assists on Day 6. It remains to be seen how much playing time he will get backing up Goran Dragic when the regular season begins.

CLICK HERE FOR GAMES RESULTS AND STATS

Courtesy of www.prosportsblogging.com (written by Warren Shaw)


Bobcats withdraw qualifying offer to Derrick Brown - by Eurobasket News

Charlotte Bobcats President of Basketball Operations Rod Higgins announced today that the team has withdrawn its qualifying offer to forward Derrick Brown (6'8''-F-87, college: Xavier). Brown now becomes an unrestricted free agent.

Selected by the Bobcats with the 40th overall pick in the 2009 NBA Draft, Brown averaged career highs of 8.1 points, 3.6 rebounds and 22.2 minutes in 65 games played last season. In 171 games over three NBA seasons with the Bobcats and Knicks, he has career averages of 5.2 points and 2.4 rebounds in 14.9 minutes played.

Bobcats Sports & Entertainment owns the Charlotte Bobcats and operates Charlottes Time Warner Cable Arena.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com


Nuggets re-sign center JaVale McGee to a multiyear contract - by Eurobasket News

The Denver Nuggets have re-signed free agent center Javale McGee (7'0''-C-88, college: Nevada) to a multiyear contract, fulfilling one of their top offseason priorities.

Masai Ujiri, Denver's executive vice president of basketball operations made the announcement Wednesday night. Yahoo Sports reported the deal was for $44 million over four years.

The 24-year-old 7-footer averaged 11.3 points, 7.8 rebounds and 2.16 blocked shots in 61 games last year for the Washington Wizards and the Nuggets, who acquired him in the Nene deal in mid-March.

McGee had two huge games against the Los Angeles Lakers in the playoffs, prompting coach George Karl to say: ''I don't think I've ever coached a guy like this. He has the moves of a 6-6 player.''

Earlier this summer, the Nuggets also re-signed free agent point guard Andre Miller.

Courtesy of http://sports.yahoo.com


USA beats Great Britain 118-78 in exhibition - by Eurobasket News

USA Basketball improved to 3-0 in their exhibition games leading up to the London Olympics beating Great Britain 118-78 Thursday afternoon.

Carmelo Anthony (6'8''-F-84, college: Syracuse) and Deron Williams (6'3''-PG-84, college: Illinois) each scored 19 points to lead the U.S. to victory.

The United States forced Great Britain to turn the ball over 26 times and they scored 34 fast break points in the game.

Kevin Durant (6'9''-G/F-88, college: Texas) started for Team USA for the first time in replace of Anthony. Williams also started for the first time as well instead of Chris Paul. Durant scored 13 points in the game and was relatively quiet going 1-for-5 from three.

Russell Westbrook played a fantastic game scoring 15 points to go along with nine assists. James Harden (6'5''-G-89, college: Arizona St.) also had his best game so far with 11 points and three assists.

Great Britain featured one NBA player in All-Star Luol Deng (6'9''-F-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Duke) but it was not nearly enough. Deng did have a nice game though scoring 25 points for the home team.

Great Britain is ranked 43rd in the world by FIBA and qualified for the Olympics only because they are the host country. They will be in the same pool as the U.S.

The United States were challenged in their last exhibition game against Brazil but did pretty much whatever they wanted today.

The new starting lineup with Durant and Williams in looked a little better but it is not set in stone if head coach Mike Krzyzewski will continue with that starting five. Coach K says they have seven starters on the team and seems pretty willing to continue to mix it up especially before the Olympics officially start July 27.

The United States will play their fourth exhibition next Sunday night at midnight EST vs. Argentina.

Courtesy of http://thunderousintentions.com


Euroleague American Tour 2012 games announced - by Eurobasket News

Euroleague Basketball and the National Basketball Association (NBA) will team up this October for the fifth edition of the Euroleague American Tour. Real Madrid of Spain and Montepaschi Siena of Italy will each play two different opponents in the Unites States and Canada during games scheduled for October 6 and October 8, 2012. The two teams will face four NBA opponents: the Memphis Grizzlies, the San Antonio Spurs, the Toronto Raptors and the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Euroleague American Tour 12 will tip off with a pair of games on Saturday, October 6. Madrid will visit the Grizzlies at FedEx Forum in Memphis, Tennessee while Montepaschi faces the Spurs at AT&T Center in San Antonio, Texas. Two nights later, the Euroleague teams move on to different cities. Madrid takes on the Raptors at Air Canada Center in Toronto, Canada and Siena meets the Cavaliers at Quicken Loans Arena in Cleveland, Ohio.

"These games will be a great experience for the team, because even if Real Madrid has played against NBA teams four times before in the clubs history, this will be the first time that we play a game in its territory, having the possibility to promote even more the Real Madrid brand outside Europe," Mr. Juan Carlos Snchez, Basketball Director of Real Madrid, said. "They will be two very enriching games, where, as always, we will compete at our maximum to try to win, but we will also try to contribute to a great show for all the fans to enjoy this duel between the representatives of European and American basketball."

Memphis, San Antonio and Cleveland all featured in the last Euroleague American Tour in 2010 and were anxious to repeat the experience of having Euroleague teams play before their fans again.

"It's a huge honor for us to be able to participate in the 2012 Euroleague American Tour," Montepaschi Siena president Ferdinando Minucci, said. "It's our club's first time in a tournament like this and we thank Euroleague and the NBA for choosing us, along with Real Madrid, to represent European basketball on this overseas tour. We're excited about facing off against two NBA teams, the San Antonio Spurs and the Cleveland Cavaliers, and being able play on their courts; it's a privilege reserved for few teams in Europe."

Euroleague American Tour 12 continues a tradition of friendly competition between NBA and Euroleague teams that dates back to 1978, when Maccabi Tel Aviv played the Washington Bullets in Tel Aviv, Israel. Following Euroleague American Tour 12, a total of 69 games will have been played between European and NBA clubs.

Euroleague American Tour 12 will coincide with NBA Europe Live 2012, in which two other NBA teams will visit Europe for four games. The Boston Celtics will meet Fenerbahce Ulker at the newly opened Ulker Sports Arena in Istanbul, Turkey on October 5. The Dallas Mavericks will come to the O2 World in Berlin, Germany, to face Alba Berlin on October 6. The next day sees EA7 Emporio Armani match up against the Celtics at the Mediolanum Forum. And NBA Europe Live 2012 concludes in Barcelona, Spain, where FC Barcelona Regal takes on the Mavericks.

Date Home Away Venue
October 6 MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES REAL MADRID FedEx Forum - Memphis, TN
October 6 SAN ANTONIO SPURS MONTEPASCHI SIENA AT&T Center - San Antonio, TX
October 8 TORONTO RAPTORS REAL MADRID Air Canada Center Toronto, CAN
October 8 CLEVELAND CAVALIERS MONTEPASCHI SIENA Quicken Loans Arena - Cleveland, OH

Courtesy of Euroleague


Celtics express interest in Delfino - by Eurobasket News

In search of depth at the shooting guard position after Ray Allen's departure to the Heat, the Celtics have shown interest in Bucks swingman Carlos Delfino (6'6''-G-82) and remain in the hunt for Mickael Pietrus, according to a Comcast report.

Following surgeries on both shoulders, Avery Bradley is doubtful to be ready for the start of the season, leaving newly signed free agent Jason Terry and second-year summer league star E'Twaun Moore, whose contract remains non-guaranteed pending a decision by the C's this week, as the only two-guard options on the roster.

The 29-year-old Delfino averaged 9.0 points (40.2 FG%, 36.0 3P%, 79.2 FT%), 3.9 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.5 steals in Milwaukee. In seven NBA seasons, including stops in Detroit and Toronto, he has averaged 7.7 points (40.0 FG%, 36.2 3P%, 74.9 FT%), 3.6 rebounds, 1.7 assists and 0.9 steals. Delfino required sports hernia surgery in early May but reportedly plans to play for his native Argentina in the Olympics.

Pietrus, of course, averaged 6.9 points (38.5 FG%, 33.5 3P%, 64.5 FT%) and 3.1 rebounds over 42 games for the Celtics this past season. He had arthroscopic surgery after their playoff run on the same right knee that required surgery after his previous season as a member of the Suns.

Courtesy of www.weei.com


Rockets waive Jon Leuer and Jerome Jordan :InsideHoops - by Eurobasket News

Houston Rockets General Manager Daryl Morey announced today that the team has waived forward Jon Leuer (6'10''-F-89, agency: Priority Sports, college: Wisconsin) and center Jerome Jordan (7'0''-C-86, college: Tulsa). Leuer joined the Rockets in a trade with the Milwaukee Bucks on June 27, 2012, while Jordan was acquired by Houston from the New York Knicks as part of the Marcus Camby sign-and-trade on July 11.

Leuer (6-10, 228, Wisconsin) played in 46 games (12 starts) with Milwaukee, averaging 4.7 points, 2.6 rebounds and 0.5 assists as a rookie with the Bucks. He was drafted by Milwaukee in the second round (40th overall) of the 2011 NBA Draft.

Jordan (7-0, 240, Tulsa) played in 21 games with the Knicks as a rookie in 2011-12, averaging 2.0 points and 1.3 boards in 5.1 minutes per contest. A native of Jamaica, Jordan also appeared in one postseason game with New York last season.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com


Jason Terry finally signs contract with Celtics - by Eurobasket News

Two weeks after an agreement was reached, Jason Terry (6'2''-PG-77, college: Arizona) has finally become a member of the Celtics.

The team announced on Wednesday that the former Dallas Mavericks guard signed his three-year contract worth an estimated $15 million.

Terry and the Celtics made a deal for the mid-level exception of $5 million annually on July 3, not long after the NBA free-agent market opened.

The Celtics have been trying to work out a sign-and-trade deal with the Mavericks in order to keep their mid-level exception available for another free agent, but the two sides could not agree on terms for a deal.

Terry, who turns 35 on Sept. 15, will be coming off the bench for the Celtics, a role he filled with the Mavericks. He could be in the starting lineup early in the season while Avery Bradley is recovering from double shoulder surgery.

Jason is one of the best sixth men in the NBA and his versatility in the backcourt is a great addition to our roster, said president of basketball operations Danny Ainge in a statement.

Terry was at the Celtics practice facility on Saturday for a press conference to introduce four free agents, but only contracts for Chris Wilcox and Brandon Bass had been signed.

Jeff Green and Terry were introduced to the media, but their deals had not been finalized. Green, who has agreed to a four-year, $36 million contract, remains on hold.

Terry helped the Mavericks win the 2011 NBA championship and was the 2009 Sixth Man of the Year award winner. He has averaged 16.1 points in 1,022 career games and ranks fourth behind Ray Allen, Reggie Miller and Jason Kidd in 3-pointers made in a career with 1,788.

Now that Allen has left the Celtics for the Miami Heat, Terry will be asked to provide long-range shooting in addition to instant offense off the bench.

Asked last Saturday about his role with the Celtics, Terry said, If they need me to wash the uniforms or sweep the floors, whatever Doc (Rivers) wants me to play, Im here to do it at 100 percent and give my all. Thats what Ive done my whole career, pretty much whatever it takes to win.

The Celtics were looking to use the mid-level exception to recruit free-agent guard Courtney Lee to join the backcourt.

Lee, who played for the Houston Rockets last season, met with Rivers in Orlando earlier this month and expressed an interest in playing for the Celtics.

But without the $5 million mid-level exception to offer, the Celtics will either have to work out a sign-and-trade with the Rockets, giving up a combination of draft picks and players, or convince Lee to take the $1.9 bi-annual exception. That is unlikely to happen since Lee will be getting better offers.

Summer league resumes: After taking off on Wednesday, the Celtics resume play in the Las Vegas Summer League today against the Sacramento Kings (6:30 p.m., TV: ComcastSportsNet).

The Celtics improved to 2-0 in Las Vegas (and 6-1 overall in the summer) with a 79-74 win over the Chicago Bulls late Tuesday night.

Guard ETwaun Moore had 25 points on 10-for-19 shooting to go with seven rebounds while Dionte Christmas added 18 points. First-round pick Jared Sullinger had seven points, missing 12 of 15 shots, but grabbed 14 rebounds in 28 minutes.

Courtesy of www.enterprisenews.com


Clippers sign 7-time All-Star Grant Hill - by Eurobasket News

Seven-time All-Star forward Grant Hill (6'8''-F-72, college: Duke) signed a contract with the Los Angeles Clippers on Wednesday.

Hill, 39, an 18-year NBA veteran, averaged 10.2 points and 3.5 rebounds in 49 games for Phoenix last season. He saw limited action late in the season after having a procedure to repair a meniscus tear in his right knee.

The third overall pick in the 1994 draft by Detroit, Hill spent his first six seasons playing for the Pistons before spending the next six (2000-2007) with the Magic. He was limited to playing 200 games for Orlando due to injuries to his left ankle.

Hill played the last five seasons for the Suns.

In all, Hill has played in 997 career games, 972 of which have been starts. He is a 31.5 percent 3-point shooter.

Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com


Dwight Howard OK to re-up for Lakers - by Eurobasket News

Magic center Dwight Howard (6'11''-C-85) signaled that if he is traded to the Los Angeles Lakers, he would be prepared to sign a long-term extension after the 2012-13 NBA season, the basketball website RealGM.com reported Wednesday.

Two sources confirmed to ESPN The Magazine's Chris Broussard that Howard is willing to re-sign long term with the Lakers if Orlando trades him there. Until recently, Howard had been steadfast in his desire to commit only to the Brooklyn Nets long term.

The Lakers have not been notified of any change in Howard's thinking as of late Wednesday night, a league source told ESPNLosAngeles.com's Ramona Shelburne, but had always figured he would commit to staying with the franchise once he experienced being part of a championship culture.

As ESPNLosAngeles.com reported Tuesday night, the Lakers have been willing to make a trade for Howard even without assurances he would sign an extension.

Sources also told Broussard the Lakers are ready and eager to trade for Howard -- with a package built around Andrew Bynum -- but that Orlando is holding up the deal.

The Magic, while willing to trade Howard, are not in a rush, and are prepared to wait until they get a deal they like.

The Lakers remained dogged in their pursuit of Howard late into the night Wednesday and plan to continue discussions Thursday, a league source told ESPNLosAngeles.com, but the longer the process drags on, the more it complicates their other offseason business, and might force them to consider moving on.

One potential holdup is Bynum's unwillingness to sign a long-term extension in Orlando. Although Bynum has not completely ruled out playing with the Magic, sources said, he will not sign an extension with them, and instead will wait until after the season to potentially test the free-agent market.

The Lakers have talked with Cleveland and Houston, both of whom have interest in Bynum, about being a third team to help facilitate the trade. Both clubs have the draft picks Orlando wants in any deal.

The Magic also want to rid themselves of some of their more onerous contracts, like those of Hedo Turkoglu and Jason Richardson.

If a Howard trade isn't feasible, the Lakers will turn their attention to resuming extension talks with Bynum and re-signing forward Jordan Hill. If Bynum agrees to an extension, it would start the clock on a deal for Howard in much the same way Brooklyn's extension with Brook Lopez did earlier this month.

Courtesy of ESPN


Former NBA star Dennis Rodman finally meets father - by Eurobasket News

Former NBA star Dennis Rodman (6'9''-F-61, college: SE Oklahoma) has finally met his estranged father after 42 years of separation, following an exhibition game in the Philippines.

Philander Rodman Jr., who has acknowledged fathering 29 children by 16 mothers, says he was happy and surprised that his son agreed to meet him late Wednesday. He tried to meet the basketball Hall of Famer during another game in Manila in 2006.

"It was great," he said Thursday of the first time he held his son's hands since they last met in December 1969.

"I've been trying to meet him for years. And then last night, boom, I met him. I was really, really happy and very surprised," he told The Associated Press.

The NBA "Alumni" team, which also included Scott Pippen, Horace Grant, and Mitch Richmond, played against former top professional Philippine Basketball Association players in the All-Star Challenge. The Alumni won.

Philander, who has been living in the Philippines for nearly 50 years, said he wanted to explain to his son that he didn't abandon his family in the United States, but they only had time for greetings and handshakes.

He said he spent only about three minutes with his son, who was also busy signing autographs.

"I really, really felt good," he said. "It's the beginning of something new."

He gave his number to his son who promised to call.

He said his son did not even want to talk about him six years ago, but he was encouraged to try again to meet him after Tuesday's press conference where the former Pistons and Bulls star invited him to watch Wednesday's game.

"I don't hate the guy that brought me into this world," Dennis Rodman told reporters. "The fact is, if I saw him, I'll just tell him, 'You know, you're a friend of mine."'

During a break, with seconds left to the end of the game, Dennis Rodman grabbed a microphone acknowledged his father's presence and pointed to him in the arena.

The crowd applauded as the elder Rodman stood up wearing a red baseball cap that said "Yes, Dennis Rodman is my son."

The 71-year-old Vietnam War veteran now operates the Rodman's Rainbow Obamaburger restaurant in northern Angeles City.

He said his restaurant menu includes burgers with red, yellow and green colored buns and fries, colors associated with his flamboyant son.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com


*****************************************************
  NBLCANADA   


Halifax Rainmen's search for new head coach is on - by Eurobasket News

The Halifax Rainmen are in search of a new head coach.

Although there's still a slight chance Josep Claros could be back for a second season, Rainmen owner Andre Levingston said Tuesday its more much more likely the native of Barcelona, Spain, will take a year off to spend time with his family.

Levingston said he plans to have a head coach in place by the first week of August so he can prepare for the National Basketball League of Canada tryout combine on Aug. 25 and 26 and the draft on Aug. 27.

'I have to move forward, Levingston told Metro. I talked to (Claros) about it and told him I cant wait forever because I need a coach in place for the combine. I'm moving forward with an interview process so Im prepared (to hire somebody) and not behind the eight-ball if he decides not to come back.'

Claros, a veteran coach with an impressive international resume, guided the team to a second-place NBL Canada finish last season, going 23-13. He took the Rainmen to the leagues inaugural final before the London Lightning eliminated them in a highlight-packed five-game series.

Claros, who has two young children including one less than a year old, left immediately after the season ended and coached Pioneros de Quintana Roo to a FIBA Americas League championship.

If I was a betting man, I would say that Pep will not be returning, Levingston said.

Levingston said replacing Claros will be difficult.

Youre looking for somebody who, first and foremost, is knowledgeable and passionate about the game, but also has the ability to get every ounce out of every player, Levingston said. Pep was able to do that.

The Rainmen havent signed anybody for the 2012-13 season but have protected five players: guards Joey Haywood, Taliek Brown and Chris Hagan and forwards Tyrone Levett and Darnell Hugee.

Although it wont be easy, Levingston hopes to re-sign all of them and build around them with an infusion of fresh blood.

Ive really spent a lot of time scouting this summer, Levingston said. Now, Im going to start looking for a new head coach who can help us to get to that next level and win a championship.

Courtesy of http://metronews.ca


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


JUCO transfer T.J. Taylor leaves Marquette after two weeks - by Eurobasket News

Marquette guard T.J. Taylor, who just arrived on campus a couple weeks ago, is leaving the program, coach Buzz Williams announced Wednesday.

Taylor, a 6-3 guard transfer from Denison, Texas, played last season at Paris Junior College, earning third-team All-American honors.

In T.J.s best interest, he has withdrawn from school today for personal reasons, Williams said in a statement. As a program, we are in complete support of his decision and we wish him all the best in his future as a student-athlete. With three years of college eligibility remaining, Taylor has not said where he intends to continue his career.

Courtesy of http://aol.sportingnews.com


Syracuse Orange to leave Big East year early, in July 2013 - by Eurobasket News

The Big East has reached an agreement with Syracuse University, allowing the Orange to leave the league a year early for the Atlantic Coast Conference.

Syracuse announced last fall its intention to join the ACC, but under Big East bylaws the school needed to serve a 27-month exit period. Instead, the Orange will now be allowed to leave on July 1, 2013 and will have to pay a fee of $7.5 million to depart. That's $2.5 million more than specified in the conference bylaws.

"Both sides thought the deal was truly reasonable, and it was done in a most collegial way," Syracuse athletic director Daryl Gross said. "We're excited that we were able to negotiate and that sophisticated minds came into play and we were able to get it done."

Under the terms of the agreement, a vote will be taken the next time the Big East Conference presidents meet, likely via teleconference. That session has not been officially scheduled yet, according to associate commissioner John Paquette, but it's a mere formality now.

"This closes a chapter and opens a new one filled with exciting possibilities for the Big East's future," interim commissioner Joe Bailey said. "With the recent addition of eight schools to the Big East, the future for the conference has never been brighter."

Pitt will also leave the Big East for the ACC, but its departure date remains uncertain. A source close to the Big East told ESPN.com's Andy Katz on Monday that Pitt was expected to leave by fall 2013.

The school filed a complaint in a Pennsylvania court in early May, claiming the Big East had waived its right to enforce its 27-month withdrawal notice and that the Panthers should be allowed to move to the ACC without further penalty by the 2013-14 conference year.

While that case is still pending, Syracuse's future is no longer in doubt.

"We look forward to the new academic and athletic partnerships and the extraordinary competitive opportunities that membership in the ACC offers," Gross said. "We are excited about both our final season in the Big East and our long-term future with the ACC.

The Big East was formed in 1979 with Syracuse as one of seven original members. Moving to a new conference will be a bittersweet moment for the Orange and men's basketball coach Jim Boeheim, the all-time winningest coach in league history with 393 victories.

"We have tremendous memories in the Big East," Gross said. "Next year will be a year we know we'll reflect upon as we go through it. It's actually nice that we have this year to transition."

Syracuse and Pittsburgh announced last September they were jumping to the ACC, and the Big East initially announced it would hold both schools to their league membership through the 2014-15 season. Pitt paid half its $5 million exit fee at the time of the announcement and agreed to remain in the conference until July 1, 2014.

That move prompted Big East member West Virginia and TCU, which had agreed to join the Big East in 2012, to instead bolt for the Big 12, and the Big East extended membership offers to Boise State and San Diego State, among others.

Pitt argued since the Big East allowed West Virginia and TCU to exit the conference immediately that Pitt was no longer required to abide by the 27-month waiting period. The school and the Big East appeared to be making progress toward a resolution earlier this year when former commissioner John Marinatto hinted the conference was open to letting Pitt leave a year early.

When Pitt does get its release from the Big East, the ACC will go to a nine-game conference schedule in football. ACC commissioner John Swofford said all 14 schools would play in both the men's and women's conference basketball tournaments.

"The ACC looks forward to the arrival of Syracuse as a playing member on July 1, 2013," Swofford said. "Syracuse will be an outstanding addition to the ACC. We've been preparing to welcome them into our membership and I'm pleased that Syracuse and the Big East were able to come to an agreement.

"As a league, we continue to be excited about our future."

Courtesy of ESPN


Pittsburgh to pay $7.5M to leave Big East early - by Eurobasket News

Pittsburgh's bitter breakup with the Big East has an official separation date.

Pitt and the conference announced Wednesday that the school will pay $7.5 million to join Syracuse in leaving the Big East for the Atlantic Coast Conference on July 1, 2013. The Big East reached a similar deal with Syracuse this week.

The agreement with Pitt includes the $5 million the school already paid after it announced in September it was switching leagues. It also ends an acrimonious split between the Big East and one of its longest standing members.

"We are anxious to compete in our final season in the Big East and look forward to an exciting future in the Atlantic Coast Conference," Pitt athletics director Steve Pederson said in a statement.

The Big East also confirmed it had dropped its lawsuit seeking $5 million from TCU for on a commitment to join the league and instead joining the Big 12. The conference said in a statement, "TCU has fully discharged its obligations to the Big East."

Pitt initially agreed to abide by the 27-month waiting period required by Big East bylaws for a team exiting the conference, which would have kept the Panthers in the league until July 1, 2014. Things got ugly in May when the school filed a lawsuit in Pennsylvania claiming the Big East waived its right to enforce a withdrawal notice after letting West Virginia leave for the Big 12 early.

The Panthers argued because the Big East allowed West Virginia to depart immediately after paying a hefty $20 million exit fee the conference could no longer hold Pitt to the 27-month withdrawal notice. The goal wasn't to go to court but to force the Big East to get serious about settling.

After a dramatic year in which the beleaguered conference lost three key members before reconstituting itself by extending invitations to a number of schools including Central Florida, Memphis and Temple the Big East is ready to move on.

"This is another step for the Big East to take toward a very exciting future," interim Big East Commissioner Joe Bailey said in a statement. "With the addition of our eight new members, the Big East will be incredibly strong and vibrant."

It also clears up what has been a murky immediate future for the Panthers. First-year football coach Paul Chryst insisted the conference talk was never a distraction and says the goal is to win no matter which league the Panthers play in.

Besides, after a tumultuous 18 months in which Pitt has gone through four head coaches, Chryst knows the conference issue is the least of the football program's problems.

"We've got a lot to just focus with just ourselves," Chryst said. "We've got a really good group of seniors. This is their last year, and anything but focusing on this year would be cheating everyone."

ACC Commissioner Jim Swofford said the conference has been "preparing to welcome both teams" for the past year. He'll only have to wait 11 more months to unveil an expanded 14-team league that will include five former Big East members. Miami and Virginia Tech left the Big East after the 2003-04 academic year and Boston College followed a year later.

The ACC will go to a nine-game conference schedule in football when Pitt and Syracuse join and every school will play in the men's and women's conference basketball tournaments.

Pitt joined the Big East in 1982, three years after it was founded, and was one of the charter members when the league expanded to football in 1991.

The Panthers have struggled to stay become nationally relevant in football, never winning an outright conference title. They were awarded the Big East's Bowl Championship Series bid in 2004 after finishing in a four-way tie for the league crown before getting blown out by Utah in the Fiesta Bowl.

Pitt's most notable conference win came in 2007, when the Panthers upset rival West Virginia in the regular-season finale to deny the Mountaineers a spot in the BCS title game.

The rivalry is on hold indefinitely, however, thanks to a series of moves that have shaken up the college landscape.

Courtesy of www.usatoday.com


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  NORWAY   


U16 European Championship: Hungary cruise past Norway - by Eurobasket News

Hungary U16 - Norway U16 90:41

Hungary clinched the opening win at U16 European Championship in Division B. They knocked down Norwegian counterparts in Bucharest to improve at 1-0 record in Group D. Viktor Zrinyi (205-C-97) came up with 17 points and 9 rebounds to pace the winners.
Hungary jumped into an early lead. They secured a 21:15 lead ten minutes into the encounter. Hungary maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. They established a 33:23 halftime advantage. Hungary boosted the margin in the third term. They unloaded 28 points to take a 29-point buffer heading into the fourth frame. Norway conceded 29 points in the final quarter to suffer a heavy defeat. Levente Nagy (194-SG-96) accounted for 15 points, while Csanad Antoni (193-SF-96) added 13 points for the winners. Harald Frey (174-PG-97) answered with 9 points for Norway. Anders Nymo (177-PG-96) and Sjur Berg (196-PF-96) netted 8 points each in the loss.

Hungary U16: Viktor Zrinyi 17, Levente Nagy 15, Csanad Antoni 13
Norway U16: Harald Frey 9, Anders Nymo 8, Sjur Berg 8


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  OMAN   


Exclusive interview with Neven Filip Luetic - by Ozell Wells

Eurobasket had the pleasure of sitting and chatting with Serbian Basketball Specialist Filip-Luetic Neven , recently named the National Team Coach of Oman.

EU: Coach, it is a true joy to be able to chat with you. How have you found your way back to the Middle East? Most recently, you were in Hungary preparing for the playoffs in the top league there.
FL: Yes, I was in Jaszbereny club and my mission was to help the club to secure the place in Top division and it was successful as the club reached that goal and will continue to compete in Top Hungarian division in next season which makes me very satisfied especially because of people who are running club and wonderful fans. There was a chance for me to stay in Hungarian basketball but people from Oman Association have me on their radar from before so I took this chance without thinking twice.

EU: Having coached abroad, not only in your home country of Serbia, but also in Libya and most recently in Hungary, what is your view of the level of play across the different regions?
FL: Definitely there are different levels across the different regions and great thing for me is that I have chance to collect different experience which helps me a lot to improve myself more. I made my first steps as a coach in Serbia and that knowledge what I gained working 10 years in my country is immeasurable and I think that Serbia is one of the few best countries where you can became a basketball coach. On the other hand ccoaching the national team of Libya was great experience for me and I improved a lot during that time as a coach and Libya and I have worked with wonderful people and players there and Libya will always have special place in my heart.

EU: What is your take on recent rule changes? For example. Defensive 3 seconds, or the moving blocks that become prevalent in almost every league imaginable, Can you tell us more on that?
FL: I think we coaches should try very hard to adapt to all changes as the game is transforming very quickly, thinking about it doesnt helps too much.

EU: How do you see the evolution of the game, over the course of your career? Having been a part of epic games in International competition and National Team Games.
FL: I think basketball is still evolving very fast on all levels more and slower in NBA as I still think that the best quality of basketball in NBA was in 90es, but European competitions are getting more stronger every season especially Euroleague wich is every season closer to NBA and the games in Euroleague are so rich technically and tactically and physically as well. Also basketball in all other regions is transforming very fast, take a Tunis as example, who thought before few years that they can reach world Championship and Olympic Games.

EU: From scouting and observing games, one can see a type of shift in focus from a focus on coaching to a more focus on players and their wants/desires,etc. Not only in the NBA, but also in countries like Holland and France we have seen players doing things quite out of character on the part of a player. How do you feel this type of behavior impacts the game?
FL: That is one of the biggest difficulties of our job and coaches are facing this on all levels and many times unfortunately can have big impact on the game and usually negative. There are things above our profession that can help especially family, society and schools can help to form good and healthy persons in early stages.

EU: The new development of you signing on to take the National Team of Oman, after holding things with the National Team of Libya comes as quite a surprise. Can you tell us more about this?
FL: It is big difference between coaching club and national team. As a coach of national team sometimes you have to prepare your team in short time for strong competition or to renew the National team with younger and stay on your level at the same time, there is no solid schedule like in club competitions so planning is always different. I have been coaching Libyan national team for 3 years and during this time I had chance to work with local players from that region and to play friendly and official games against Arab teams and teams from Persian Gulf as well so maybe it is not a surprise that I found myself here in Oman after all.

EU: What are you plans for the upcoming season 2012/2013?
FL: I have signed one year contract with option to renew with Oman basketball association so all my plans are focused on developing of Oman basketball. In short terms I will participate on GCC competition in Bahrain on the end of September with senior Oman national team. In long terms I believe we can reach a lot together and we can raise basketball her to a new level as I have very good cooperation with Oman Basketball Association and I feel very comfortable in this country.

EU: Do you want to share anything with your fan base, not only in Serbia but also in Libya and across the globe?
FL: I am happy that I can share my thoughts with people from basketball all over the globe and this is something that basketball gave to me and it makes me satisfied. I am wishing all the best for my basketball friends in Serbia,Libya,Hungary and Oman.Also I wish that basketball will come back soon to Libya and my biggest wish in this moment is to make good results with Oman national team.

EU: Any other closing thoughts?
FL: Regards for Eurobasket readers from Muscat, Oman - one of the most beautiful places I have ever been in my life.

EUROBASKET WOULD LIKE TO TAKE THIS TIME TO CONGRATULATE COACH FILIP LUETIC ON HIS NEW POST. WE WOULD ALSO LIKE TO WISH HIM THE VERY BEST IN HIS NEXT ENDEAVORS, WHEREEVER THEY MAY BE AND WE LOOK TO HERE GREAT THINGS FROM HIM IN THE VERY NEAR FUTURE. BEST SWISHES COACH!


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  PHILIPPINES   

Standings - PBA Fiesta Conference

PBA Governor's Cup Standings
 1. Rain or Shine 10-4 
 2. B-Meg Llam. 9-5 
 3. Ginebra Kings 9-5 
 4. Talk N Text 8-6 
 5. Petron Blaze 6-8 
 6. Meralco Bolts 6-8 
 7. Air21 Express 0-0 
 8. Alaska Aces 0-0 
 9. Barako Bull 0-0 
 10. Powerade T. 0-0 
Semifinals Standings

Play-Offs: Round 6

Jul. 16: Talk N Text - Rain or Shine 98-90
Jul. 18: Rain or Shine - B-Meg Llam. 92-82
Jul. 18: Ginebra Kings - Talk N Text 73-71

Semi-Finals: Round 1

Jul. 20: B-Meg Llam. - Ginebra Kings


PBA Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Zach GRAHAM
  Air21 E.
  (198-G-89)
  Avg: 37.6
 1. Graham, Air21 E.37.6 
 2. West, Meralco30.1 
 3. Sneed, Powerade T.25.9 
 4. David, Powerade T.24.8 
 5. Blakely, B-Meg L.24.2 
 6. Harris, Talk N Text24.0 
 7. Forte, Alaska Aces23.5 
 8. Cornley, Rain o.23.1 
 9. Bozeman, Ginebra21.6 
 10. Basden, Petron B.19.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Omar SNEED
  Powerade T.
  (198-F-76)
  Avg: 16.6
 1. Sneed, Powerade T.16.6 
 2. Forte, Alaska Aces15.6 
 3. Blakely, B-Meg L.13.1 
 4. Graham, Air21 E.12.6 
 5. Harris, Talk N Text12.5 
 6. Bozeman, Ginebra11.4 
 7. Cornley, Rain o.10.8 
 8. Taulava, Meralco10.1 
 9. Pingris, B-Meg L.9.7 
 10. Santos, Petron B.8.6 
Assists Per Game
 Jimmy ALAPAG
  Talk N Text
  (177-PG-77)
  Avg: 6.5
 1. Alapag, Talk N Te.6.5 
 2. Casio, Powerade T.6.1 
 3. Sneed, Powerade T.5.4 
 4. Tenorio, Alaska A.5.2 
 5. Cabagnot, Petron4.9 
 6. Miller, Barako Bull4.8 
 7. Ross, Meralco4.5 
 8. Bozeman, Ginebra4.4 
 9. Basden, Petron B.4.0 
 10. Graham, Air21 E.3.8 
Steals Per Game
 Marqus BLAKELY
  B-Meg L.
  (196-F-89)
  Avg: 3.3
 1. Blakely, B-Meg L.3.3 
 2. West, Meralco2.5 
 3. Basden, Petron B.2.4 
 4. Sneed, Powerade T.1.6 
 5. Tenorio, Alaska A.1.6 
 6. Ross, Meralco1.3 
 7. Bozeman, Ginebra1.2 
 8. Anthony, Powerade.1.1 
 9. Mercado, Meralco1.1 
 10. Graham, Air21 E.1.1 
Blocks Per Game
 Marqus BLAKELY
  B-Meg L.
  (196-F-89)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. Blakely, B-Meg L.2.7 
 2. Forte, Alaska Aces1.6 
 3. Baguio, Alaska Ac.1.4 
 4. Santos, Petron B.1.3 
 5. Aguilar, Talk N.1.2 
 6. Thoss, Alaska Aces1.1 
 7. West, Meralco1.1 
 8. Harris, Talk N Text1.0 
 9. Maierhofer, Ginebr.0.9 
 10. Norwood, Rain o.0.8 



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  POLAND   


Promotion to PLK main goal for Siden Torun - by Maciej Paszyn

Team Polski Cukier SIDEn Torun seriously commenced preparations for the new season, of which a promotion to Polish extra league is supposed to be a main goal. The first step of club activist was a sign-up contract with new coach multi medalist of Polish extra league Eugeniusz Kijewski . This move is supposed to provide the highest level for the club on coaches bench. After signed contract with Kijewski, Siden management lengthened contracts with three key players from the previous season: Lukasz Zytko (181-G-81), Jacek Jarecki (197-G-88) and Arkadiusz Kobus (197-F-86, agency: Promotex). Especially stopped on Jacek Jarecki who was first scorer oh the team in last season, is possible to regard as the most success for club.
Torun activist are trying also to acquire players from the PLK market. Club insistently was trying for recruiting Bartlomiej Woloszyn (196-F-86), however after all he chose the offer from AZS Koszalin.
Information about next reinforcements should come soon. One thing is certain a very interesting summer and season are waiting for Siden fans.


U16 European Championship: Greece too good for Poland - by Eurobasket News

Greece U16 - Poland U16 75:63

Greece clinched the opening win at the start of U16 European Championship in Latvia/Lithuania. They held off Poland in Group D action. Vasileios Charalampopoulos (199-F-97) came up with 17 points and 8 rebounds to lead the charge.
Greece eased to a 20:11 lead after ten minutes. They maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. The Hellenes ensured a 43:28 halftime cushion. Greece stayed in control after the big break. They secured a 17-point lead with one period remaining. Poland outgunned their opponents in the fourth frame but had to surrender at the end. Dimitrios Stamatis (192-G-96) knocked down 15 points, while Vasileios Toliopoulos (185-PG-96) had 13 points in the victory. Kamil Zywert (188-PG-96) and Artur Wlodarczyk (174-PG-96) answered with 15 points apiece for Poland. Marek Zywert (185-SG-96) netted 11 points in the losing case.

Greece U16: Vasileios Charalampopoulos 17, Dimitrios Stamatis 15, Vasileios Toliopoulos 13
Poland U16: Kamil Zywert 15, Artur Wlodarczyk 15, Marek Zywert 11


U20 European Championship: Sofia sent the hosts to the Semifinals - by Eurobasket News

Poland U20-Bulgaria U20 70:78

Sofia sent the hosts to the Semifinals of the U20 European Championship in Division B. Bulgaria overcame the Polish players 78:70 and sent them out of Top Four.
It was a tough game and could send only one team to the Semifinal. Although two of them deserved a spot there, Bulgaria managed to grab the victory. They started with 22-21, but the game was tied at the halftime. In the second half Bulgaria produced two victories. They won the third quarter 18-15 and finished the game with 21-16 in the last stanza.
Pavlin Ivanov (195-G-93, agency: Beo Basket) paced all the winners with 35 points, while Angel Natskin (182-PG-93) netted 11. Dimitar Dimitrov (202-F-93, agency: Interperformances) delivered 10 and Georgi Boyanov (200-F-93) scored 9. Mateusz Ponitka (196-G-93) and Tomasz Gielo (205-F-93) scored 20 points each in defeat and the latter also added 12 rebounds. Piotr Niedzwiedzki (210-F-93) followed them with 8 points in a loss.

Poland U20: Mateusz Ponitka 20, Tomasz Gielo 20+12 rebs, Piotr Niedzwiedzki 8
Bulgaria U20: Pavlin Ivanov 35, Angel Natskin 11, Dimitar Dimitrov 10, Georgi Boyanov 9


Lukasz Seweryn signs with Anwil - by Eurobasket News

Lukasz Seweryn (196-G-82) and Przemyslaw Frasunkiewicz (202-G/F-79) will play next season together. Few days after Frasunkiewicz, Seweryn also made a move from Asseco Prokom to Anwil. He penned a deal for the next season. For 21 PLK games in 2011/12 Seweryn averaged 5.2 points and 1.1 rebounds. He had almost the same numbers in Euroleague and VTB United League. Seweryn joined Asseco Prokom in 2009 and they won 3 PLK titles together. In 2010, they reached Euroleague Quarterfinals. Before Asseco Prokom, Lukasz Seweryn spent one year with Atlas Stal Ostrow. In 2007/08, he played for Polpak Swiecie and year before that he spent with AZS Koszalin. Seweryn also has experience from Unia Tarnow and Czani Slupsk.


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  PORTUGAL   


U20 European Championship: Portugal grab 3-0 record in Group H - by Eurobasket News

Portugal U20-Hungary U20 61:55

Portugal grab 3-0 record in Group H at the U20 European Championship in Division B. The team overcame Hungary 61:55 in Sofia. The latter fell at 0-3 record.
Hungary won the opening tip 5-1 and then Zoltan Czinger (215-C-93) scored for 7:4. Portugal meanwhile finished the first period with a 6-0 run and took 13:9 advantage. Again Hungary took the lead in the second period and erupted with a defensive 14-3 run. Kovacs and Zoltan Czinger closed the half at 23:16, but Hungary could not win. Rafael Wildner (207-C/F-92) tied the game at 28:28, while Lakosa and Tursics tied it again at 37:37. Portugal dominated the last period and produced a 24-18 in it. Miguel Cardoso (184-PG-93) finished the game from the free throw line for the final result.
Rafael Wildner top-scored for the winners with 21 points and Miguel Cardoso added 15. Peter Jakab (187-G-93) answered with 12 points and Zoltan Czinger posted 10.

Portugal U20: Rafael Wildner 21, Miguel Cardoso 15
Hungary U20: Peter Jakab 12, Zoltan Czinger 10


U16 European Championship: Third quarter brings Portugal success over Netherlands - by Eurobasket News

Netherlands U16-Portugal U16 40:48

Third quarter brings Portugal success over Netherlands at the U16 European Championship in Division B. Portugal won the game 48:40 in Group D third game of the day.
Portugal won the opening tip 5-0 and did not allow the opponents to score in the first 5 minutes of the game. Yannick Franke (185-G-96) later reduce to 12:7 at the end of the quarter and Joey Liem (175-SG-96) brought the Dutch side 14:12. Moreover the Dutch side created a 14-0 run that gave them 19:12 midway through the second frame. Joey Liem later nailed three to close the period at 25:16. The third quarter however fully belonged to Portugal. Brito tied the game at 27:27 and then Francisco Amiel (186-PG-96) scored for 36:29. Salamanca increased the lead to 10 points early in the last period, while Francisco Amiel delivered two for 43:32. Portugal saved a 8-point victory to seal the win in the opener.
Francisco Amiel top-scored for the winners with 12 points and Sergio da Silva (191-SG-96) posted 11. Benvindo Mendes (200-C-96) followed them with 8 points in a win. Yannick Franke delivered 13 and Joey Liem notched 12.

Netherlands U16: Yannick Franke 13, Joey Liem 12
Portugal U16: Francisco Amiel 12, Sergio da Silva 11, Benvindo Mendes 8


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  ROMANIA   


U16 European Championship: Georgia upset the hosts in Group C opener - by Eurobasket News

Romania U16-Georgia U16 51:55

Georgia upset the hosts in Group C opener of the U16 European Championship in Division B. The team grabbed 55:51 in front of 450 fans in Bucharest.
Although Romania scored the first 4 points in the game, they could not win the encounter. Georgia managed to post only 2 points after the first 5 minutes, but had 15:10 at the end of it. Lomidze nailed three in the start of the second frame, while Romanian team tied the game at 18:18 after an 8-0 run. Moreover Nandor Kuti (194-SG-97) closed the half at 24:22. The third quarter became decisive in the game and brought 20-13 for the Georgia that had 42:37 at the end of it. The guests kept Romanian scoreless for the first 6 minutes of the last period and took 48:37 lead. They added some free throws at the very end to seal the victory.
Luka Zakradze (187-PG-96) led the way with 11 points and Levan Gogaladze (191-PG-97) notched 9. Soso Matchavariani (196-SF-96) delivered 8, whist Giorgi Gugeshashvili (197-F-96) had 7. Marius Ciotlaus (194-SF-96) ended up with 16 points in the losing effort and Nandor Kuti added 13.

Romania U16: Marius Ciotlaus 16, Nandor Kuti 13
Georgia U16: Luka Zakradze 11, Levan Gogaladze 9, Soso Matchavariani 8, Giorgi Gugeshashvili 7


Aerosvit Cup-2012: Belarus clinched the third place - by Eurobasket News

Romania-Belarus 62:84

Belarus clinched the third place at the Aerosvit Cup-2012 in Ukraine. The team won over Romania 84:62 and finished with 1-2 record. Romanian meanwhile finished the tournament on the fourth place with no victories.
Both teams entered the game without victories and desired to finish the tournament at least with the initial win. Belarus grabbed 20:13 lead and never looked behind after. They added 26-13 in the second frame and enjoyed 46:26 lead at the halftime. Romania answered with 21-20 in the third quarter but failed with 15-18 in the last stanza.
Aliaksandr Pustahvar (201-F-85, agency: RU-Basket Management) paced all the winners with 17 points, while Heorhi Kandrusevich (198-F-78, agency: New Trend Agency) notched 14. Mikita Meshcharakou (202-F-88) ended up with 11, whilst Mikalai Aliakseyeu and Yahor Meshcharakou (205-F-76, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav, college: G.Washington) had 10 each. Mihail-Octavian Paul (191-G-82) delivered 11 points in the losing effort. Titus Nicoara (203-F-88, agency: Interperformances), Mihai Silvasan (201-F-85, agency: Court Side) and Ionut Dragusin (221-C-85) each scored 9 points.
Israel beat Ukraine in the game for the top place to win Aerosvit Cup-2012.

Romania: Mihail-Octavian Paul 11, Titus Nicoara 9, Mihai Silvasan 9, Ionut Dragusin 9
Belarus: Aliaksandr Pustahvar 17, Heorhi Kandrusevich 14, Mikita Meshcharakou 11, Mikalai Aliakseyeu 10, Yahor Meshcharakou 10


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  RUSSIA   


Beverley ready to activate his NBA clasue - by Anton Zirkov

Patrick Beverley (185-PG-88, college: Arkansas) is ready to quit Spartak St.Petersburg after he was offered a contract with an NBA team.
The news came with a surprise to Spartak top brass,as they weren't expected the Eurocup MVP to departure this summer.
Beverley,who singed a new 3 years lucrative contract only last summer has an NBA escape clause in every summer.
This summer,Beverley has till 25 of July to show Spartak an NBA contract offer and last night he got this offer.Beverley can't move to another European club as the date of the European clause already expired.
The rumors are that the Chicago Bulls has offered him the contract,as he went to workout with the team.the


U16 European Championship: Ukraine surprise Russia in Ventspils - by Eurobasket News

Russia U16-Ukraine U16 63:87

Ukraine surprise Russia in Ventspils at the start of the U16 European Championship. Ukraine closed Day 1 with the win over the Russian cadets 87:63.
Ukraine did not waste time and started with 27:17 lead. They never looked behind in the game and added 17-14 surge in the second frame. Moreover Ukraine won also two quarters in the second half. They produced 20-17 in the third quarter and finished the game with 23-15 in the last period.
Oleksandr Kobets (192-SF-96) paced all the winners with 19 points, while Yevgen Balaban (198-PF-96) collected 15 points and 10 rebounds. Sviatoslav Mykhailiuk (194-SG-97) netted 14 and Vadym Golyk (188-SF-96) scored 11. Aleksandr Zuev (193-PG-96) replied with 11 points in the losing effort and Mikhail Maleyko (203-PF-96) added 10. Maxim Knyazev (198-F-96) followed them with 9 points in a loss.

Russia U16: Aleksandr Zuev 11, Mikhail Maleyko 10, Maxim Knyazev 9
Ukraine U16: Oleksandr Kobets 19, Yevgen Balaban 15+10 rebs, Sviatoslav Mykhailiuk 14, Vadym Golyk 11


Spartak St.Petersburg inks 2-year deal with PG Zack Wright - by Eurobasket News

Zack Wright (188-G-85, college: Central Mo.) officially became a new member of Spartak St.Petersburg. The American point guard heads to Russia from Cibona Zagreb. He joined Cibona in March this year and led them to championship title in Croatia. The player was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Croatian A1 League Player of the Year -12. He appeared 20 times for the club averaging 8.7 points 4 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 2.1 steals.
Zack Wright started last season with A.G.O Rethymno Aegean. He played 22 games in Greek A1 league collecting 13.5 ppg, 5.4 rpg, 4.1 apg and 2.5 spg. He was named to Eurobasket.com All-Greek A1 League 2nd Team -12 and Eurobasket.com Greek A1 League All-Imports Team -12. Wright also was Defensive Player of the Year. In 2010/11 season, Wright played for Limoges and year before that he spent with Le Mans. Wright also has experience from Chalon and Braunschweig. In 2008, he was named Eurobasket.com All-German 2.Bundesliga Pro B Player of the Year -08. Zack Wright has Bosnian passport and he will play for their National Team.


Spartak St.Petersburg and Patrick Beverley part ways - by Eurobasket News

Patrick Beverley (185-PG-88, college: Arkansas) announced via Twitter that he will not return to Spartak St.Petersburg for the next season. He thanked the club for everything. Beverley joined Spartak in January of 2011. He played 22 games in Russia last season averaging 15 points, 5.8 rebounds, 4.9 assists and 2.3 steals. He was fourth scorer and four assistant of the competition, plus he was No.1 in steals. Beverley had slightly lower numbers in VTB United League and EuroCup. The player picked up couple of very important awards: Eurobasket.com All-EuroCup Player of the Year -12, Eurobasket.com All-VTB League Import Player of the Year -12 and Eurobasket.com All-Russian PBL Guard of the Year -12. Before Spartak, Patrick Beverley played for Olympiakos. In 2008/09, he was a member of Dnipro Dnepropetrovsk and it was his first pro deal. Beverley graduated at the University of Arkansas four years ago. He played for U19 USA National Team in the past.


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  SEBL   

Standings

SEBL Standings
North-A Division
 1. Marietta Fbr. 3-0 
 2. Marietta O. 3-0 
 3. Summer Hill 2-2 
 4. Baseline 2-2 
 5. TN Temple 2-2 
 6. Skyline 2-2 
 7. Gwinnett E. 1-3 
 8. BC Howren 0-4 
North-B Division
 1. Dalton W. 5-0 
 2. Cartersville T. 3-2 
 3. Polk County 3-2 
 4. Columbus S. 2-3 
 5. Cedartown B. 1-4 
 6. Bartow B. 0-5 


Dalton Wholesale Continues Winning Streak - by Marcus Tate

Dalton Wholesales wins their 5th straight game in Wednesday nights City Conference B-League game. For the majority of the game, Dalton trailed as they struggled to defend Albany States Marqal Washington who contributed 17 points off the bench. After making a few key adjustments late in the 3rd quarter, Dalton Wholesale was able to close the gap when Ken Jones came down and hit 2 clutch 3 pointers. Dalton Wholesales Center Barry Hall also showed a dominating presence contributing 16 points and 6 rebounds. In the 4th quarter Dalton held Polk County to only 6 points which allowed them to continue their winning streak. They win 78-65. City Conference games will take place again next Wednesday July 25th beginning at 6:30pm.


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  SERBIA   


Marko Icelic takes over BKK Radnicki as Head Coach - by Eurobasket News

BKK Radnicki got a new Head Coach. The team hired Marko Icelic for the next three seasons, according to local media (Kosarka24.com). He will replace Dragan Nikolic, who is reportedly on his way to Metalac Valjevo. Icelic worked last two and a half years as Head Coach of OKK Beograd. They parted ways in December of 2011. Marko Icelic is currently a Head Coach of the Serbian U16 National Team. Last summer he won the Silver with Serbian U18 NT at U18 Eurobasket in Wroclaw. Two years ago, Icelic served as Assistant Coach of U20 National Team.
BKK Radnicki was the newcomer in Serbian A league last season and they managed to reach the Superleague. There, the team registered 4 wins in 14 games.


U16 European Championship: Four players score 11 points as Germany beat Serbia - by Eurobasket News

Germany U16-Serbia U16 67:60

Four players score 11 points as Germany beat Serbia at the U16 European Championship first game. The German side took 1-0 record after 67:60 win in Group C.
Germany erupted with 19-4 lead in the opening period, but lost all three other quarters. Jovanovic and Nikola Pavlovic (199-PF-96) reduced to 35:24 at the end of the half. Later Starincevic and Vucetic cut it to 39:33, while Stefan Lazarevic (193-SG-96) scored for 43:38. The final push at the end of the frame however allowed the German side to take 53:44 after three quarters. Serbia won the last stanza 16-14 and could cut it to 7 points at the end of the game.
Jan Wimberg (202-G-96), Kevin Casper (199-F-96), Mahir Agva (202-C-96) and Joschka Ferner (200-F-96) top-scored for the winners with 11 points each. Nikola Pavlovic delivered 14 points and 10 rebounds in the losing effort. Ivan Daskalovic (199-SG-96) scored 10, while Stefan Lazarevic collected 9 points and 13 rebounds.

Germany U16: Jan Wimberg 11, Kevin Casper 11, Mahir Agva 11, Joschka Ferner 11
Serbia U16: Nikola Pavlovic 14+10 rebs, Ivan Daskalovic 10, Stefan Lazarevic 9+13 rebs


Slobodan Dundjerski inked with CS Gaz Metan Medias - by Nenad Ilijev

Point guard Slobodan Dundjerski (190-G-88, agency: Alti Sport) became a new member of Romanian Division A side CS Gaz Metan Medias. Dundjerski had a great season last year reaching Superleague playoff semifinals with Vojvodina Srbijagas as one of the best passers and defenders in the league. He averaged 9.3ppg, 4.7apg and 2.1spg. He forces uptempo basketball and pressure on defense so he would be a useful member of coach Marcel Tenter's squad. Before joining Vojvodina last summer, Dundjerski played two years at OKK Beograd. He started playing pro basketball at Crvena Zvezda Diva in 2005.
Slobodan Dundjerski was called up for Serbian University National Team in 2011 and he was also part of youth National Team selections in the past. Romanian team already signed Aleksandar Mladenovic (207-F/C-84, agency: BeoExcell) out of Serbian players while Ivan Ivanovic (206-F-80, agency: Beo Basket) will start his third season in Medias. He is a former Vojvodina Srbijagas player too.


Exclusive interview with Neven Filip Luetic - by Ozell Wells

Eurobasket had the pleasure of sitting and chatting with Serbian Basketball Specialist Filip-Luetic Neven , recently named the National Team Coach of Oman.

EU: Coach, it is a true joy to be able to chat with you. How have you found your way back to the Middle East? Most recently, you were in Hungary preparing for the playoffs in the top league there.
FL: Yes, I was in Jaszbereny club and my mission was to help the club to secure the place in Top division and it was successful as the club reached that goal and will continue to compete in Top Hungarian division in next season which makes me very satisfied especially because of people who are running club and wonderful fans. There was a chance for me to stay in Hungarian basketball but people from Oman Association have me on their radar from before so I took this chance without thinking twice.

EU: Having coached abroad, not only in your home country of Serbia, but also in Libya and most recently in Hungary, what is your view of the level of play across the different regions?
FL: Definitely there are different levels across the different regions and great thing for me is that I have chance to collect different experience which helps me a lot to improve myself more. I made my first steps as a coach in Serbia and that knowledge what I gained working 10 years in my country is immeasurable and I think that Serbia is one of the few best countries where you can became a basketball coach. On the other hand ccoaching the national team of Libya was great experience for me and I improved a lot during that time as a coach and Libya and I have worked with wonderful people and players there and Libya will always have special place in my heart.

EU: What is your take on recent rule changes? For example. Defensive 3 seconds, or the moving blocks that become prevalent in almost every league imaginable, Can you tell us more on that?
FL: I think we coaches should try very hard to adapt to all changes as the game is transforming very quickly, thinking about it doesnt helps too much.

EU: How do you see the evolution of the game, over the course of your career? Having been a part of epic games in International competition and National Team Games.
FL: I think basketball is still evolving very fast on all levels more and slower in NBA as I still think that the best quality of basketball in NBA was in 90es, but European competitions are getting more stronger every season especially Euroleague wich is every season closer to NBA and the games in Euroleague are so rich technically and tactically and physically as well. Also basketball in all other regions is transforming very fast, take a Tunis as example, who thought before few years that they can reach world Championship and Olympic Games.

EU: From scouting and observing games, one can see a type of shift in focus from a focus on coaching to a more focus on players and their wants/desires,etc. Not only in the NBA, but also in countries like Holland and France we have seen players doing things quite out of character on the part of a player. How do you feel this type of behavior impacts the game?
FL: That is one of the biggest difficulties of our job and coaches are facing this on all levels and many times unfortunately can have big impact on the game and usually negative. There are things above our profession that can help especially family, society and schools can help to form good and healthy persons in early stages.

EU: The new development of you signing on to take the National Team of Oman, after holding things with the National Team of Libya comes as quite a surprise. Can you tell us more about this?
FL: It is big difference between coaching club and national team. As a coach of national team sometimes you have to prepare your team in short time for strong competition or to renew the National team with younger and stay on your level at the same time, there is no solid schedule like in club competitions so planning is always different. I have been coaching Libyan national team for 3 years and during this time I had chance to work with local players from that region and to play friendly and official games against Arab teams and teams from Persian Gulf as well so maybe it is not a surprise that I found myself here in Oman after all.

EU: What are you plans for the upcoming season 2012/2013?
FL: I have signed one year contract with option to renew with Oman basketball association so all my plans are focused on developing of Oman basketball. In short terms I will participate on GCC competition in Bahrain on the end of September with senior Oman national team. In long terms I believe we can reach a lot together and we can raise basketball her to a new level as I have very good cooperation with Oman Basketball Association and I feel very comfortable in this country.

EU: Do you want to share anything with your fan base, not only in Serbia but also in Libya and across the globe?
FL: I am happy that I can share my thoughts with people from basketball all over the globe and this is something that basketball gave to me and it makes me satisfied. I am wishing all the best for my basketball friends in Serbia,Libya,Hungary and Oman.Also I wish that basketball will come back soon to Libya and my biggest wish in this moment is to make good results with Oman national team.

EU: Any other closing thoughts?
FL: Regards for Eurobasket readers from Muscat, Oman - one of the most beautiful places I have ever been in my life.

EUROBASKET WOULD LIKE TO TAKE THIS TIME TO CONGRATULATE COACH FILIP LUETIC ON HIS NEW POST. WE WOULD ALSO LIKE TO WISH HIM THE VERY BEST IN HIS NEXT ENDEAVORS, WHEREEVER THEY MAY BE AND WE LOOK TO HERE GREAT THINGS FROM HIM IN THE VERY NEAR FUTURE. BEST SWISHES COACH!


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  SLOVAKIA   


Szalay and Marchyn Join Levice - by Thomas Kottra

2010/2011 champion adds first two new players to their roster.
A year-long pause of Gabriel Szalay (215-F/C-86) was caused by his knee operation after injury he suffered in 2009/2010 playoffs. That days he was wearing jersey of BC Prievidza. Now he's ready to strengthen team of Astrum Levice which is going to compete in both - Slovak and Czech highest divisions again. 26 years old center has some international experiences after competing in Italy, Spain, Sweeden and Poland. Now he's going to experience Czech league along with Slovak. In his last season Szalay achieved 14.4 points, 8.8rebs and 1.9 blocks per game in 20 appearances.
Second new name on Levice roster is Matej Marchyn (192-F-90), former SKP Banska Bystrica player who also has worn Levice jersey in 2008/2009 season. 22 years old wing-man scored 8.5 points per game in his last season.
Szalay and Marchyn joined trio of long-term contracted players Vojtek, Morvek and Bukovic. Information was delivered by official webpage of Astrum Levice.


U20 European Championship: Slovak Republic closed Day 7 with the win - by Eurobasket News

Slovak Republic U20- Luxembourg U20 76:52

Slovak Republic closed Day 7 with the win at the U20 European Championship in Division B. The winning side improved to 2-1 record in Group G after 76:52 victory over Luxembourg. The latter fell at 0-4 record on the bottom of the group.
Luxembourg surprised the opponents with 15:14 in the first period, but could not keep the lead. Maurizio Galata (203-F-92) and Dedecek scored for 18:15 and then Slovak Republic pushed the tempo for good. Maurizio Galata and Matus Luley (195-F-92) closed the half at 32:25 and then Slovak Republic added 18-17 in the third quarter. Dedecek nailed three for 60:44, while Maurizio Galata added few more for 65:44. Slovak Republic also won the end of the game with an 8-0 run to seal a comfortable victory.
Maurizio Galata top-scored for the winners with 21 points and Andrej Galad (200-F-92) as well as Jaroslav Moravek (204-F/C-92) posted 11 each. Matus Luley collected 10 points and 11 rebounds in defeat. Louis Arendt (187-F/G-93) ended up with 23 points in the losing effort, while Max Schmit (182-PG-92) and Tom Welter (186-G-93) had 8 each.

Slovak Republic U20: Maurizio Galata 21, Andrej Galad 11, Jaroslav Moravek 11, Matus Luley 10+11 rebs
Luxembourg U20: Louis Arendt 23, Max Schmit 8, Tom Welter 8


U16 European Championship: Nikolov and Magdevski pace F.Y.R. of Macedonia over Slovak Republic - by Eurobasket News

Slovak Republic U16- F.Y.R. of Macedonia U16 47:84

Kristijan Nikolov (185-G-96) and Andrej Magdevski (190-G-96) pace F.Y.R. of Macedonia over Slovak Republic at the U16 European Championship in Division B. They summed up for 56 points in a 84:47 win in the first game.
Sarna nailed three in the opening tip for Slovakia but it was the only lead of his team. F.Y.R. of Macedonia won the end of the first period 14:10 and Andrej Magdevski scored for 19:12. Andrej Magdevski later scored 10 points in a row for 40:19 early in the third quarter. Andrej Cvetkovski (185-G-96) and again Andrej Magdevski scored for 51:25, while Hupka reduced to 14 points. F.Y.R. of Macedonia finished the third period with 14-0 run and enjoyed 65:27 after three quarters. Slovak Republic replied with 20-19 in the last stanza for the final result.
Kristijan Nikolov top-scored for the winners with 29 points and Andrej Magdevski nailed 27. Petros Mitrovic (185-G-97) poured in 9, while Andrej Cvetkovski had 7. Robert Rozanek (180-PG-96) finished the game with 10 points in defeat, whilst Norbert Janicek (206-C-96) had 8 points and 11 boards.

Slovak Republic U16: Robert Rozanek 10, Norbert Janicek 8+11 rebs
F.Y.R. of Macedonia U16: Kristijan Nikolov 29, Andrej Magdevski 27, Petros Mitrovic 9, Andrej Cvetkovski 7


Slovakian U16 National Team 2012 - by Eurobasket

#s#
Jakub Pasovsky
Pasovsky
Robert Rozanek
Rozanek
Jozef Senohradsky
Senohradsky
Lukas Pigliafreddo
Pigliafreddo
Patrik Sarna
Sarna
#e#5
4 Jakub Pasovsky 174-PG-97
5 Robert Rozanek 180-PG-96
6 Jozef Senohradsky 190-G-96
7 Lukas Pigliafreddo 198-PF-97
8 Patrik Sarna 180-PG-97
9 Martin Brecska 197-PF-96
10 Jakub Meress 200-PF-96
11 Samuel Hupka 184-G-96
12 Marek Masiar 183-F-96
13 Adam Oremus 205-C-96
14 Norbert Janicek 206-C-96
15 David Abrham 190-F-96

Josek Istok Head Coach
Milan Rozanek Assistant Pezinok Slovakia



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  SLOVENIA   


Union Olimpija paid debt to remove FIBA BAT sanctions - by Matej Bergant

Euroleague Shareholders discussed the financial situation of Union Olimpija Ljubljana on a regular meeting in Barcelona two weeks ago and gave an ultimatum to the club management to pay the documented outstanding debt with deadline of July 20, 2012.

BC Union Olimpija Ljubljana today (July 19th, 2012) managed to pay all the documented debt to their former players Vladimir Golubovic (213-C-86), Edin Bavcic (210-F/C-84, agency: Beo Basket) and Dusan Djordjevic (195-G-83, agency: Beo Basket) who were with the club during 2009/2010 season and therefore FIBA BAT should remove the sanctions against the club in the upcoming week.

Slovenian Euroleague participant will be able to register new players and the club also expects additional information from the Euroleague management about future proceedings to complete the acquisition of full Euroleague B-Licence for the 2012/2013 season.


U16 European Championship: Lithuania pip Slovenia in Panevezys - by Eurobasket News

Lithuania U16-Slovenia U16 82:76

Lithuania pip Slovenia in Panevezys at the start of the U16 European Championship. The Baltic State celebrated a 82:76 win in the opener.
The co-hosts of the U16 European Championship opened the game with 23:14 lead in the first period. Both squads added 22 points to their account in the second frame that brought 45:36 for Lithuania at the halftime. Tautvydas Paliukenas (192-SF-96) and Deividas Zemgulis (194-PF-96) opened the third period making 50:36 and Rupkus scored for 54:44. Budrys later closed the quarter at 58:44 as Lithuania won the third period 13-8. Slovenia had massive 32-24 in the last stanza but could reduce to 6 points at the end.
Domantas Sabonis (199-PF-96) paced all the winners with 22 points and Antanas Krimelis (191-SF-96) netted 17. Tautvydas Paliukenas ended up with 14 points, while Deividas Zemgulis had 13. Matej Kavas (193-G-96) and Tilen Kodrin (202-SF-96) produced 18 points each in the losing effort. Grega Sajevic (183-SG-96) nailed 15, whilst Sandi Grubelic (187-PG-96) had 9.

Lithuania U16: Domantas Sabonis 22, Antanas Krimelis 17, Tautvydas Paliukenas 14, Deividas Zemgulis 13
Slovenia U16: Matej Kavas 18, Tilen Kodrin 18, Grega Sajevic 15, Sandi Grubelic 9


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  SPAIN   


U16 European Championship: The hosts fail to Spain in Ventspils - by Eurobasket News

Latvia U16-Spain U16 63:65

The hosts fail to Spain in Ventspils at the U16 European Championship. The Latvian side was unable to produce the result hometown fans were hoping for, agonizingly falling to Spain 63:65 in the opening Group B game.
Spain took 19:16 after the first 10 minutes and added 25-17 in the second frame. Marc Bauza (205-C-96) and Alonso scored for 44:33 as the teams went to the lockers. The third quarter belonged to the home side as Rihards Lomazs (175-PG-96) reduced to 44:41. Ricards Melderis (185-PG-96) and Adnam Omeragic (200-F-96) exchanged the shots for 54:47 at the end of the third period and Rauls Avenitis (180-PG-96) cut it to 56:52. Rauls Avenitis also managed to tie the game at 58:58, while Feikners made the same at 61:61. Latvia however could not take the lead and allowed Spain to win the thriller. Adnam Omeragic and Marc Garcia (194-F-96) scored the free throws at the end to seal the victory.
Marc Garcia top-scored for the winners with 13 points and Adnam Omeragic nailed 12. Martinez finished the game with 11 points, while Marc Bauza scored 9. Rauls Avenitis produced 16 points in defeat, whilst Meznieks-Zahars had 12. Rihards Lomazs and Ricards Melderis ended up with 8 points each in a loss.

Latvia U16: Rauls Avenitis 16, Meznieks-Zahars 12. Rihards Lomazs 8, Ricards Melderis 8
Spain U16: Marc Garcia 13, Adnam Omeragic 12, Martinez 11, Marc Bauza 9


Lobe Huesca extends Javier Nasarre for 2012/13 - by Eurobasket News

Lobe Huesca announced signing of a 1-year contract extension with Javier Nasarre (208-F/C-86, agency: Dynamics Global Management, college: ORU). The Spanish big guy arrived to Huesca last summer. He had very limited playing time averaging 1.9 points and 1.5 rebounds for 22 games in LEB Gold. It was his first season as a pro and Nasarre is expected to get more minutes in 2012/13. Javier Nasarre graduated at Oral Roberts University something more than a year ago. There he was also spending limited time on the court. The played transferred to ORU from Northern Oklahoma College-Tonkawa Junior College. In the past, he played for Zarzuela Maristas and Valladolid U20 team. In 2011, Nasarre reached Summit Tournament Finals with ORU. Lobe Huesca finished last season as No.15 in LEB Gold with 13-21 record.


Assignia Manresa and its captain Roman Montanez part ways - by Eurobasket News

Roman Montanez (193-G-79) is no longer a member of Assignia Manresa. His contract expired this summer and two sides were not able to agree on contract extension. Montanez was captain of the team over the past four years. Last season he had 6.2 ppg, 1.8 apg and 1.5 rpg for 26 games in Liga Endesa. In 2010/11, the player averaged 7.8 points and 1.6 assists for 30 games. Montanez had the best numbers with Manresa in 2009/10. That season he registered 11.8 ppg, 2.1 apg and 1.7 rpg for 33 games. Before Manresa, Roman Montanez spent one year with Girona and reached ULEB Cup Finals with them (2008). From 2005 to 2007, the guard played for Lagun Aro Bilbao and before that he spent five seasons with Valladolid. In the past, Montanez already played few years for Manresa. Actually, they won the ACB title together in 1998, but Montanez was 19-year-old player at that time.


CAI Zaragoza to sign 3-year deal with Henk Norel - by Eurobasket News

CAI Zaragoza will sign Henk Norel (212-F/C-87) to a 3-year deal, according to Solobasket.com. The 24-year-old big guy is a product of Joventut Badalona, where he moved as a teenager. Last season Norel appeared 28 times in Liga Endesa averaging 6.9 points and 4.5 rebounds. In 2010/11, the player had 6.4 ppg and 4.8 rpg. Norel got injured in January of 2011 and missed rest of the season. In the past, Henk Norel played on loan for Alicante and Prat. He also has experience from Demon Astronauts Amsterdam.
Henk Norel played for Dutch National Team in Qualifications to European Championships Division B 2011. He exploded with 26.7 ppg, 11 rpg and 3.3 apg for 3 games. In 2009, Norel played for his country at EuroBasket Division B. There he had 8.8 ppg and 3.3 rpg in 4 games.


Bilbao officially gets Lamont Hamilton for 2012/13 - by Eurobasket News

Bilbao Basket officially announced signing of Lamont Hamilton (208-C/F-84, college: St.John's). The player penned a one-year deal. Hamilton arrives to the club from Paris-Levallois, where he spent last three seasons. In the latest one the player shined with 17 ppg, 8.2 rpg, 2 apg and 1.2 bpg for 30 games. He was second rebounder, fourth scorer and fourth shot blocker of the competition. For his performance Hamilton was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-French ProA Center of the Year -12. In 2010/11 and 2009/10 season the American had about 15 ppg and 6 rpg in ProA. Lamont Hamilton already played in Spain in the past. In 2008/09 he was a member of the LEB Gold team Tenerife Rural averaging 12.6 points and 7 rebounds for 31 games. Before that he also played for Mallorca. The player graduated at St. Johns University five years ago.


Fuenlabrada and PG Sergio Sanchez part ways - by Eurobasket News

Sergio Sanchez (190-PG-81) is no longer a member of Mad-Croc Fuenlabrada. The Spanish squad declined to use its contract option and to keep the player for 2012/13 season. Sanchez arrived to Fuenla last summer from Estudiantes. He appeared 34 times in Liga Endesa averaging 6.6 points, 2.6 assists and 2 rebounds. The point guard also added 7.5 ppg, 2.5 rpg and 1.5 rpg for 15 games in EuroChallenge.
As mentioned above, Sergio Sanchez played for Estudiantes in 2010/11 season. There he had 7.1 ppg, 1.9 rpg and 1.8 apg for 13 games in EuroCup. His numbers in ACB were little bit lower. From 2008 to 2010, Sanchez played for Bruesa and before that he spent two years with Estu. He already played for Fuenlabrada in 2005/06 season. In 2005, Sanchez was named Eurobasket.com All-Spanish LEB Guard of the Year -05 as a member of Huelva.


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  SWEDEN   


U16 European Championship: Sweden wins over Finland in Bucharest - by Eurobasket News

Sweden U16-Finland U16 67:57

Sweden wins over Finland in Bucharest in the first day at the U16 European Championship in Division B. Sweden won all the quarters in the game for a 67:57 victory.
Skagius and Alanen exchanged the early baskets and Erik Johansson (194-F-96) scored for 8:2. Finland reduced to 12:11 at the end of the first period and Henri Niemisto (194-G-96) gave his side 16:14 lead early in the second. Alanen and Elias Eerikinharju (185-G-96) scored for 29:28, while Erik Johansson sent the teams to the lockers at 39:35. Sweden added narrow 16-15 in the third period and led 5 points after three quarters. They finished the game with 12-7 and celebrated the first win at the tournament.
Ludvig Hakanson (190-PG-96) stepped up with 20 points and 11 rebounds, while Andreas Von Uthmann (196-F-96) posted 12. Erik Johansson notched 9 and Gustafsson delivered 6. Henri Niemisto ended up with 26 points in the losing effort while Fiifi Aidoo (175-PG-96), Elias Eerikinharju and Samuli Nieminen (200-F-96) had 6 apiece.

Sweden U16: Ludvig Hakanson 20+11 rebs, Andreas Von Uthmann 12, Erik Johansson 9, Gustafsson 6
Finland U16: Henri Niemisto 26, Fiifi Aidoo 6, Elias Eerikinharju 6, Samuli Nieminen 6


Nassjo signs American F William Walker - by Eurobasket News

Nassjo announced signing of William Walker (201-F-87, agency: Warren Sports International, college: Bethel, IN) for the next season. The American forward shined with Team Paris at 2012 Eurobasket Summer League in Indianapolis averaging 14 points and 6 rebounds in five games. Walker is not a new face in Basketligan as he played for Solna Vikings last season. He joined them in November averaging 15.2 points, 6.8 rebounds and 2 assists for 30 games. Walker started the season in Luxembourg with BBC US Hiefenech Heffingen. There he dominated with 20.3 ppg and 10.7 rpg for 7 games. William Walker played for Solna also in 2010/11 season. A year before that he spent with Sodertalje Kings. In 2011, Walked was named to Eurobasket.com Swedish Basketligan All-Imports Team. He also participated at Basketligan All-Star Game. Walker is a product of Bethel College (IN, NAIA), where he graduated three years ago.


Boras inks Rod Sherman, parts ways with Omar Krayem - by Eurobasket News

Boras Basket will have a new point guard for the next season. The team penned a 1-year deal with American Rodriguez Sherman (188-G-87, college: Kent St.). At the same time, Boras announced that Omar Krayem (185-G-86, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Cal.Baptist) is no longer member of the team.
Rodriguez Sherman spent last season with German squad BSV Wulfen. He had 10.2 ppg, 2.7 rpg and 1.2 apg for 9 games in ProB. It was his first pro deal. Sherman is a product of Kent State University, where he graduated something more than a year ago. He played 36 games for the school as a senior averaging 12.6 points, 3.8 rebounds and 2.9 assists. Sherman helped Kent State to reach NIT Elite Eight. They also reached MAC Tournament Finals and Sherman was named All-MAC 2nd Team -11. In 2008, the point guard helped Kent State to win MAC Tournament.


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  SWITZERLAND   


U16 European Championship: Switzerland rally past Austria - by Eurobasket News

Switzerland U16 - Austria U16 72:57

Switzerland opened win count at U20 European Championship in Division B. They fired past Austria in Group D. Anthony Polite (190-SF-97) came up with 16 points and 12 rebounds to pace the winners.
Switzerland stunned their opponents early in the game. They went on a 21:6 run. The Swiss team extended the lead in the second quarter. They piled up a 41:21 halftime advantage. Switzerland boosted the lead in the third quarter. They arrived at the final intermission up by 23 points 58:35. Austria outscored their opponents in the fourth frame but just sweetened the pill at the end. Owandji Otoka (185-SF-96) netted 15 points, while Luka Mandic (195-F-96) and Mattia Cafisi (181-PG-97) had 8 points each for the winners. Marvin Ogunsipe (193-F-96) replied with 19 points for Austria. Florian Keller (188-F-96) finished with 9 points in the loss.

Switzerland U16: Anthony Polite 16+12 boards, Owandji Otoka 15, Luka Mandic 8, Mattia Cafisi 8
Austria U16: Marvin Ogunsipe 19, Florian Keller 9


U20 European Championship: Belarus pip Switzerland in Sofia - by Eurobasket News

Switzerland U20-Belarus U20 78:89

Belarus pip Switzerland in Sofia at the U20 European Championship in Division B. The winning team improved to 2-2 record after 89:78 victory. The Swiss team fell at 1-2 record in Group H.
Belarus started with 31:15 and never looked behind after. They added 30-25 in the second frame as Yauheni Suhaniaka (200-F-92) closed the half at 61:40. Zakhar and Vitali Liutych (198-SG-92) opened the third quarter for 64:40, while Vitali Liutych delivered two fro 71:44. Milos Bozovic (201-F-92) and Yauheni Suhaniaka closed the third period at 78:57. Switzerland meanwhile won the last stanza 21-11 to reduce the gap to 11 points.
Vitali Liutych top-scored for the winners with 33 points. Robertas Ruzgaitis (198-F-93) followed him with 20, while Yauheni Suhaniaka added 13. Brian Savoy (192-SG-92) and Evrard Atcho (207-C/F-92) ended up with 17 points each in the losing effort. Milos Bozovic scored 13, while Marko Mladjan (206-F-93) had 11.

Switzerland U20: Brian Savoy 17, Evrard Atcho 17, Milos Bozovic 13, Marko Mladjan 11
Belarus U20: Vitali Liutych 33, Robertas Ruzgaitis 20, Yauheni Suhaniaka 13


Lugano Tigers sign Florent Ramseier and Richie Gordon; Antoine Young joins Geneve Lions - by Luca Maffioli

Lugano Tigers announced signing of Florent Ramseier (197-F-90) and Richie Gordon (203-F, college: W.Carolina). The Swiss player moves to Lugano Tigers after one season with SAV Vacallo. Ramseier averaged 12.2 points (FGP: 52.5%, 3PT: 33.9%, FT: 82.8%), 3.6 rebounds and 1.3 assists in 28 games. Gordon is an American center graduated at Western Carolina University. Last season he played 36 games in United Kingdom with Worcester Wolves. He averaged 18.7 points, 9.7 rebounds, 1.4 assists, 1.1 steals and 1.2 blocks per game.
Lions de Geneve agreed on terms of contract with Antoine Young (182-G-89). The American playmaker graduated last season at Creighton University. He averaged 12.1 points, 2.0 rebounds and 4.4 assists in 35 games.


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  TAIWAN   


Jeremy Lin says he 'preferred' a return to the NY Knicks over joining Houston Rockets - by Eurobasket News

Jeremy Lin's (6'3''-PG-88, college: Harvard) stunning departure has some Knicks fans blaming James Dolan and others swearing to switch allegiances to the Brooklyn Nets. But if you think Lins exit was handled poorly, his arrival in Houston was just as awkward.

On the eve of his introductory press conference with the Rockets, Lin told SI.com that he preferred New York and loves the New York fans to death, despite signing a three-year, $25 million offer sheet with the Western Conference club last Friday. A few hours after Lin made it known that his top choice was to re-sign with the Knicks, he released a statement pledging his loyalty to his new employer.

Now I am excited to be back with the Rockets, said Lin, who was cut by Houston last December before joining the Knicks. They made a very compelling pitch in terms of what I could bring to the team and for the city.

What made Houstons pitch all the more compelling was a balloon payment of $14.9 million in the third year of the deal. It was that new wrinkle in the contract that infuriated Dolan, the chairman of Madison Square Garden. The move accelerated the end of Lins run in New York after 35 games and 25 starts.

The day after the payment was added to Lins pact, the Knicks sent shock waves through the NBA by acquiring point guard Raymond Felton from Portland, a move that meant they would not match the Rockets offer. Three days later, Knicks GM Glen Grunwald called Lin at his parents house in Palo Alto, Calif., to inform him of the clubs decision.

We wanted to keep you but it couldnt work out, Lin recalled Grunwald saying during an interview with SI.com. Tell your family I say hello, and good luck the rest of the way.

Lin told the website that before Grunwald called he had not spoken to any Knicks officials in over a week and had a feeling that his days were numbered once he learned about the Felton trade.

Feltons signing was the first time when I thought, Oh, wow, I might not be a Knick,? Lin said.

Two weeks earlier, Lin and the Knicks appeared to be on the same page after he flew to Los Angeles to meet with Mike Woodson, Carmelo Anthony, Tyson Chandler and his best friend on the Knicks, Landry Fields, whose offer sheet from Toronto the Knicks later decided not to match. According to Lin, Woodson assured him that he would be the starting point guard and a key part of the team.

I came away really excited, Lin said.

However, when free agency began, Lin wondered if the Knicks were really committed to him. The Knicks top priority appeared to be recruiting Steve Nash, a two-time MVP who not only would have been the starting point guard had he signed with the Knicks but would have played between 33 and 38 minutes a night.

Nash eventually went to the Lakers in a sign-and-trade, and the Knicks responded by signing 39-year-old Jason Kidd. Suddenly, there was mistrust on both sides with the Knicks already upset that Lin hired a publicist without first consulting them.

I knew the Knicks organization wanted him back, Tyson Chandler said after training with the Olympic team in Manchester, England. I know his teammates wanted him back. I felt like Jeremy wanted to come back, but you cant pass up what Houston threw out there.

Neither Dolan, Grunwald nor Woodson has commented publicly, but the company line at MSG is that the decision was strictly financial. That third year could have cost the Knicks as much as $35 million with luxury-tax penalties factored in. However, former Knicks coach Mike DAntoni admitted that he was led to believe the Knicks would keep Lin because they had the right to match the deal.

Im thinking, For sure,? DAntoni said. Even when I was there, well as least we got him, we dont have to worry about him blowing up and us not being able to afford it.

In his interview with SIs Pablo Torres, his former Harvard classmate, Lin painted himself as the ultimate team guy who always followed orders. For example, Lin raised eyebrows before Game 5 against Miami when he ruled himself out despite being 85% healthy. Lin had surgery to repair a torn meniscus in early April and never played again.

Every single vet on our team that has been in the league longer than five years pulled me aside and told me that I shouldnt play, Lin said. And I had arguments with them about why I should.

Ultimately, the decision to play was Lins, not his teammates. Lin even claims that Dolan told him not to play during a conversation they had before Game 5. That was also the last time they spoke.

I have plans for you in the future, Lin says Dolan told him. This is a long-term investment. Dont rush back.

Lin goes to great lengths to avoid responsibility for sitting out a playoff game. He also attempted to clarify what he meant about being 85% healthy by insisting he meant he was 15% away from being able to play. The explanation is confusing at best.

People think it was easy for me to sit there and watch us lose, like I had nothing to do with the season, Lin says. I was dying to play. I didnt miss a game due to injury in seven years until this past season, and people are acting like I wouldnt want to play in the playoffs? Of the NBA? In my first season?

Lin became an instant celebrity in New York once he got a chance to play against the Nets in early February, the night before the Giants beat New England in the Super Bowl. For two weeks, he owned New York and was an international sensation. Linsanity became part of the sports lexicon, and it appeared as if Lin, just 23, would have a long run in New York. From start to finish, he lasted just seven months but wont soon be forgotten.

I love the New York fans to death, Lin says. Thats the biggest reason why I wanted to return to New York. The way they embraced me, the way they supported us this past season, was better than anything Ive ever seen or experienced. Ill go to my grave saying that. What New York did for me was unbelievable. I wanted to play in front of those fans for the rest of my career. Courtesy of www.nydailynews.com


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  TURKEY   


U16 European Championship: Turkey overpower England in opener - by Eurobasket News

Turkey U16 - England U16 81:56

Turkey registered the first win at the U16 European Championship in Division A. They knocked down England in Ventspils. Ogulcan Baykan (195-SG-96) scored 12 points to lead the winners.
Turkey led by just three points ten minutes into the game. 18:15. But they managed to boost the gap in the second quarter. Turkey accumulated a 33:25 halftime advantage. The margin grew in the third term. Turkey stayed dominant to enter the final quarter up by 16 points 53:37. Turkey unloaded 28 points in the final frame and sealed a comfortable win at the end. Okben Ulubay (200-F-97) and Akif Guven (206-C-96) accounted for 10 points each for the winners. Jules Akodo (G-96) answered with 13 points, 8 assists and 5 boards for England. Dwayne Lautier-Ogunleye (191-SG-96) netted 12 points in the loss.

Turkey U16: Ogulcan Baykan 12, Okben Ulubay 10, Akif Guven 10
England U16: Jules Akodo 13, Dwayne Lautier-Ogunleye 12


Ufuk Sarica: 'We agreed with Buker, we like Raduljica' - by Pervin Elgin

The coach of Pinar confirms the first signing of the team

Ufuk Sarica confirmed that Evren Buker will play with Pinar Karsiyaka next season. The forward comes from Galatasaray.
The coach also admitted the interest for Miroslav Raduljica who is linked to Mens Sana Siena as well.
"We like Raduljica. But his name is linked to Siena as well. We'll talk with Anadolu Efes but for his transfer we have to wait" said Raduljica.

Courtesy of sportando.net


Galatasaray to terminate Shumpert contract - by Ugur Turker

Galatasaray Medical Park Istanbul wants to terminate final year contract of Preston Shumpert (198-G/F-79, college: Syracuse). After signig of Ersin Da�l� who is able to play Turkish Status, Preston Shumpert will be counted as forigner player even if he has Turkish cititzenship. It is most likely that Ergin Ataman is looking for another Power Forward. Close to situation claim that Preston Shumpert is eager to continue his career in Turkey, but in Istanbul. Besiktas is most possible team to play for Preston Shumper after lost Ersin Dagli. So that there will be trade like between at the end but Galatasaray will have paid to termination fee to waive Shumpert who is asking next year salary for termination.


TBL Transfer Updates - Aliaga Petkim, Erdemir, Banvit, Mersin BSB, Ted Kolejliler, Tofas - by Ugur Turker

Eurobasket.com Turkey talked with TBL coaches for upcoming season. What is the last developments in Turkish teams ?

Erdemirspor has nearly finished transfers. Coach Hakan Demir is planning to play with 3 foreigner and he has already signed with them. Along with Turkish addition, there are 2-3 domestic player that Erdemirspor will try to sign with.

Aliaga Petkim, before its first season in EuroChallange, strengthened its squad. Mediterrian team aims to add Bosman Power forward to complete transfer movement. It will be not a suprise if one or two turkish players sign with Aliaga Petkim in next days.

Mersin Buyuksehir Belediyesi is hoping to keep its foreign players but it is most likely that Anthony Grundy and Mays will leave the team. There is a good news that Alex Scales and Omar Sneed will be Mersin one more season. Coach Mete Babaoglu is looking for PG and Backcourt player to complete foreign roster. In next days, there would be developments after Vegas Summer League ended.

Newcomers of TBL, Optimum TED Kolejliler Ankara has signed with 5 starting five already. But, there will be two more foreign and two more Turkish additions to its roster. Ercument Sunter explained their aim as long lasting live in TBL.

Banvit Basketbol Kulubu is one of the team which is looking for only one player to complete tis roster. According to situation, one foreigner will be added to roster and no domestic player signing is expected.

Tofas Bursa is also has one gap in its roster. Bursa team will finished player search after singing with Center. The new backcourt player will most probably Bosman.


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  UGANDA   


Warriors blow out Vegetarian, Rez Life stay winless - by Joel Nature

It looked like it was the start of the season when Warriors were scoring for fun against Eagles, Ndejje and Rez Life on Saturday evening when last years losing finalists played Vegetarians.
Warriors torched Vegetarian 99-44.Center, Micheal Kariuki put up game high 25 points and grabbed 15 rebounds.
However the big man continued to struggle on the line as he shot 4-for-12 from the free throw line. Austin Marual, Brian Gumisiriza and Syrus Kiviri added 10 points each for the league leaders. After sitting out much of the first round with an ankle problem, Ivan Enabu returned on the Warriors team.
The point guard came off the bench scored 9 points, handed out 6 assists and swiped 4 steals in the 20 minutes on the floor. Vinnie Jurua led Vegetarians (2-10) with 12 points and Lawrence Waligo added 10.
Meanwhile Giant Stormers edged Rez Life Saints 50-47 to complete a double on fellow new comers.
Moses Opoka led the way for Stormers (2-10) with 16 points and Rogers Serunyigo added 9 points. William Odongo played out the entire 40 minutes and paced Saints (12-0) with 15 points and Daniel Jjuko chipped in with 13.
Saints poor shooting continued as they went 20-for-64 from the field.

In the womens division, Ruth Nakitto and Zaina Lokwameri combined for 45 points to pace Nabisunsa to a 64-40 win over fellow high scholars Crane High.
Carrine Kedi added 10 points. Crane High were led by Sarah Ageno with 13 points and 9 rebounds as hot scoring Ritah Imanishimwe was kept under check and managed only 8 points. A1 challenge beat Gladiators 45-24 in the other game of the division played on Saturday.

Saturday results:
Men
Vegetarian 44-99 warriors
Stormers 50-47 Saints
Women
A1 Challenge 45-24 Gladiators
Crane High 40-64 Nabisunsa


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  UKRAINE   


Aerosvit Cup-2012: Ukraine lost to Israel to finish second - by Eurobasket News

Ukraine lost to Israel to finish second at Aerosvit Cup-2012. The hosts of the tournament was beaten 68:74 and finished with 2-1 record.
Alex Tyus (203-F-88, college: Florida) began the encounter strong scoring 7 of Israel's first 11 points, but the Ukraine fought back and took a 26-21 lead after one. Steve Burtt upped the hosts' lead during the second period to 30-23 and 33-25, before taking a minimal 43-41 advantage into intermission. In the third period, Israel rallied back behind points from Elishay Kadir (202-F-87, agency: Avi Zilberman), Nitzan Hanochi and Guy Pnini, en route to a 56-55 lead. Yogev Ohayon (189-G-87) and Burtt exchanged fourth quarter buckets, but Israel had the upper hand with three minutes to play (70-63). The Ukraine player's missed a number of consecutive treys and Gal Mekel (192-PG-88, college: Wichita St.) found Alex Tyus for an impressive ally-oop to seal the deal. (courtesy of David Pick)
Alex Tyus paced all the winners with 17 points and 6 boards, while Pnini added 13. Yogev Ohayon had 12, while Kadir ended up with 10 points and 8 rebounds. Steve Burtt posted 16 points in the losing effort and Artur Drozdov (199-G-80) scored 13.
Belarus clinched the third place at the Aerosvit Cup-2012 in Ukraine. The team won over Romania 84:62 and finished with 1-2 record. Romanian meanwhile finished the tournament on the fourth place with no victories.


U16 European Championship: Ukraine surprise Russia in Ventspils - by Eurobasket News

Russia U16-Ukraine U16 63:87

Ukraine surprise Russia in Ventspils at the start of the U16 European Championship. Ukraine closed Day 1 with the win over the Russian cadets 87:63.
Ukraine did not waste time and started with 27:17 lead. They never looked behind in the game and added 17-14 surge in the second frame. Moreover Ukraine won also two quarters in the second half. They produced 20-17 in the third quarter and finished the game with 23-15 in the last period.
Oleksandr Kobets (192-SF-96) paced all the winners with 19 points, while Yevgen Balaban (198-PF-96) collected 15 points and 10 rebounds. Sviatoslav Mykhailiuk (194-SG-97) netted 14 and Vadym Golyk (188-SF-96) scored 11. Aleksandr Zuev (193-PG-96) replied with 11 points in the losing effort and Mikhail Maleyko (203-PF-96) added 10. Maxim Knyazev (198-F-96) followed them with 9 points in a loss.

Russia U16: Aleksandr Zuev 11, Mikhail Maleyko 10, Maxim Knyazev 9
Ukraine U16: Oleksandr Kobets 19, Yevgen Balaban 15+10 rebs, Sviatoslav Mykhailiuk 14, Vadym Golyk 11


Serbian Tadija Dragicevic inks with Azovmash - by Eurobasket News

Serbian Tadija Dragicevic (206-F/C-86, agency: Beo Basket) inks with Azovmash for the upcoming season. The Ukrainian team announced another singing for 2012/2013 season.
In 2011-2012 the Serbian player was with Angelico Biella (Italy-SerieA, starting five) and averaged 10.6ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.6apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 60.7%, 3PT: 34.9%, FT: 73.5%. He joined Biella after Lottomatica Roma . In January of 2010he played for Roma and had 8.6 points and 3.5 rebounds for rest of the season in SerieA (17 games).
Earlier Tadija Dragicevic played for ALBA Berlin. He had 7.7 ppg, 3.5 rpg and 1.7 apg in 45 German league games. In EuroCup, Dragicevic added 9.7 ppg and 5.3 rpg for 10 appearances. He also had 9 ppg, 4.8 rpg and 2 apg for 5 games in Euroleague Qualifying Round. Dragicevic spent couple of years with Crvena Zvezda in the past. In 2008, he was named Eurobasket.com All-Adriatic League Player of the Year -08. That same season Dragicevic was also awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Serbian League Forward of the Year -08.


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


U20 European Championship: Czech Republic heads to the semis - by Eurobasket News

Czech Republic U20 - Great Britain U20 91:75

Czech Republic heads to the semis of the U20 European Championship in Division B. The team added another win at the tournament edging Great Britain 91:75 and sending them out of the Top 4.
Czech Republic continued the streak and proved the ambitions for Division A. They started with 24-19 in the first period and had 5-point lead at the half-time. The third quarter was decisive in the game and brought 29-16 in the third period. Great Britain managed to win the last stanza 19-21 and finished third in the group.
Jaromir Bohacik (197-G/F-92) top-scored for the winners with 24 points, while Martin Kriz (202-F-93) collected 21 points and 10 rebounds. Michal Sotnar (189-PG-92) nailed 12 and Dalibor Fait (203-F/C-93) as well as Vaclav Honomichl (189-G-92) added 9 each. Devon Van Oostrum (190-G-93) ended up with 20 points in the losing effort, whilst Grant Fiorentinos (208-F/C-92) had 18. Joe Hart (194-G/F-93) scored 13 and Onyejebolise Chuku (196-F-93) delivered 10.

Czech Republic U20: Jaromir Bohacik 24, Martin Kriz 21+10 rebs, Michal Sotnar 12, Dalibor Fait 9, Vaclav Honomichl 9
Great Britain U20: Devon Van Oostrum 20, Grant Fiorentinos 18, Joe Hart 13, Onyejebolise Chuku 10


U16 European Championship: Turkey overpower England in opener - by Eurobasket News

Turkey U16 - England U16 81:56

Turkey registered the first win at the U16 European Championship in Division A. They knocked down England in Ventspils. Ogulcan Baykan (195-SG-96) scored 12 points to lead the winners.
Turkey led by just three points ten minutes into the game. 18:15. But they managed to boost the gap in the second quarter. Turkey accumulated a 33:25 halftime advantage. The margin grew in the third term. Turkey stayed dominant to enter the final quarter up by 16 points 53:37. Turkey unloaded 28 points in the final frame and sealed a comfortable win at the end. Okben Ulubay (200-F-97) and Akif Guven (206-C-96) accounted for 10 points each for the winners. Jules Akodo (G-96) answered with 13 points, 8 assists and 5 boards for England. Dwayne Lautier-Ogunleye (191-SG-96) netted 12 points in the loss.

Turkey U16: Ogulcan Baykan 12, Okben Ulubay 10, Akif Guven 10
England U16: Jules Akodo 13, Dwayne Lautier-Ogunleye 12


USA beats Great Britain 118-78 in exhibition - by Eurobasket News

USA Basketball improved to 3-0 in their exhibition games leading up to the London Olympics beating Great Britain 118-78 Thursday afternoon.

Carmelo Anthony (6'8''-F-84, college: Syracuse) and Deron Williams (6'3''-PG-84, college: Illinois) each scored 19 points to lead the U.S. to victory.

The United States forced Great Britain to turn the ball over 26 times and they scored 34 fast break points in the game.

Kevin Durant (6'9''-G/F-88, college: Texas) started for Team USA for the first time in replace of Anthony. Williams also started for the first time as well instead of Chris Paul. Durant scored 13 points in the game and was relatively quiet going 1-for-5 from three.

Russell Westbrook played a fantastic game scoring 15 points to go along with nine assists. James Harden (6'5''-G-89, college: Arizona St.) also had his best game so far with 11 points and three assists.

Great Britain featured one NBA player in All-Star Luol Deng (6'9''-F-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Duke) but it was not nearly enough. Deng did have a nice game though scoring 25 points for the home team.

Great Britain is ranked 43rd in the world by FIBA and qualified for the Olympics only because they are the host country. They will be in the same pool as the U.S.

The United States were challenged in their last exhibition game against Brazil but did pretty much whatever they wanted today.

The new starting lineup with Durant and Williams in looked a little better but it is not set in stone if head coach Mike Krzyzewski will continue with that starting five. Coach K says they have seven starters on the team and seems pretty willing to continue to mix it up especially before the Olympics officially start July 27.

The United States will play their fourth exhibition next Sunday night at midnight EST vs. Argentina.

Courtesy of http://thunderousintentions.com


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


Goes beat Atenas, the Metro leader - by Hector Lopez

Jimmy Boston (201-F-77, college: N.C.Central) netted 24 points leading Goies to beat 63-48 Atenas, the leader for the Metro League, during a game for the 16th round. Now Atenas is in the second place with a 10-4 record behind Marne with 11-4 and Goes is tied for the sixth place with Larranaga 7-7. The six best teams will be playing for two promotios to the Uruguayan League.
Goes 81 - Boston 24 points 8 rebounds 3 assists, 2 blocks, Marcelo Perez (194-F-73) 12 points 2 rebounds 4 assists
Atenas 48 - Anthony Johnson (203-F-88, college: Fairfield) 18 points 18 rebounds 3 blocks, Johnny Rodriguez (197-F-83) 11 points 3 rebounds


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

Standings - LNB

LNB Standings
Central-East
 1. Aduaneros 0-0 
 2. Atleticos UCV 0-0 
 3. Estudiantes 0-0 
 4. Guacharos 0-0 
 5. Rojos de Sucre 0-0 
 6. Tiburones 0-0 
Central-West
 1. Bravos 0-0 
 2. Cent.Apure 0-0 
 3. Generales 0-0 
 4. Graneros 0-0 
 5. Lanc.Cojedes 0-0 



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


Serbian Tadija Dragicevic inks with Azovmash - by Eurobasket News

Serbian Tadija Dragicevic (206-F/C-86, agency: Beo Basket) inks with Azovmash for the upcoming season. The Ukrainian team announced another singing for 2012/2013 season.
In 2011-2012 the Serbian player was with Angelico Biella (Italy-SerieA, starting five) and averaged 10.6ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.6apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 60.7%, 3PT: 34.9%, FT: 73.5%. He joined Biella after Lottomatica Roma . In January of 2010he played for Roma and had 8.6 points and 3.5 rebounds for rest of the season in SerieA (17 games).
Earlier Tadija Dragicevic played for ALBA Berlin. He had 7.7 ppg, 3.5 rpg and 1.7 apg in 45 German league games. In EuroCup, Dragicevic added 9.7 ppg and 5.3 rpg for 10 appearances. He also had 9 ppg, 4.8 rpg and 2 apg for 5 games in Euroleague Qualifying Round. Dragicevic spent couple of years with Crvena Zvezda in the past. In 2008, he was named Eurobasket.com All-Adriatic League Player of the Year -08. That same season Dragicevic was also awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Serbian League Forward of the Year -08.



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Women News


U16 Bulgaria grabs 76-73 OT win against U16 Belarus in Tallinn - by Eurobasket News

U16 BULGARIA - U16 BELARUS 76-73 OT

Bulgaria advanced to the Quarterfinals of U16 EuroBasket Division B in Tallinn. They grabbed 76-73 overtime win against Belarus ending the Qualifying Round as fourth ranked team of Group F with 3-2 record. Bulgaria's rival in the QFinals will be Finland. At the other side, Belarus faced with another loss and finished as the last ranked team in this pool with 0-5. They will continue in classification games from 9th-12th place. It was a very exciting meeting and Bulgaria players were focused when it mattered most to take the victory in this game. Quarters: 23-17, 11-19, 13-24, 23-10, 6-3 OT. Borislava Hristova (180-F-96) shined for the winners with 25 points and 10 rebounds. Maria Kamburova (182-F-96) also had impressive performance with 16 points and 19 rebs. Actually, she was the MVP of this meeting with valuation 27. Teodora Dineva (175-G-96) scored 15 pts in Bulgaria. Darya Panasiuk (175-SF-96) answered with 23 pts and 8 rebs in defeat, and Hanna Brych (183-C-97) added 14 pts, plus 7 rebs. Anastasiya Sushchyk (160-PG-97) followed them with 13 points, 6 rebs and 5 assists. All teams will take a rest on Thursday and will play again on Friday.

Bulgaria: Borislava Hristova 25+10 boards, Maria Kamburova 16+19 boards, Teodora Dineva 15
Belarus: Darya Panasiuk 23+8 boards, Hanna Brych 14+7 boards, Anastasiya Sushchyk 13+6 boards+5 as


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


U16 Bulgaria grabs 76-73 OT win against U16 Belarus in Tallinn - by Eurobasket News

U16 BULGARIA - U16 BELARUS 76-73 OT

Bulgaria advanced to the Quarterfinals of U16 EuroBasket Division B in Tallinn. They grabbed 76-73 overtime win against Belarus ending the Qualifying Round as fourth ranked team of Group F with 3-2 record. Bulgaria's rival in the QFinals will be Finland. At the other side, Belarus faced with another loss and finished as the last ranked team in this pool with 0-5. They will continue in classification games from 9th-12th place. It was a very exciting meeting and Bulgaria players were focused when it mattered most to take the victory in this game. Quarters: 23-17, 11-19, 13-24, 23-10, 6-3 OT. Borislava Hristova (180-F-96) shined for the winners with 25 points and 10 rebounds. Maria Kamburova (182-F-96) also had impressive performance with 16 points and 19 rebs. Actually, she was the MVP of this meeting with valuation 27. Teodora Dineva (175-G-96) scored 15 pts in Bulgaria. Darya Panasiuk (175-SF-96) answered with 23 pts and 8 rebs in defeat, and Hanna Brych (183-C-97) added 14 pts, plus 7 rebs. Anastasiya Sushchyk (160-PG-97) followed them with 13 points, 6 rebs and 5 assists. All teams will take a rest on Thursday and will play again on Friday.

Bulgaria: Borislava Hristova 25+10 boards, Maria Kamburova 16+19 boards, Teodora Dineva 15
Belarus: Darya Panasiuk 23+8 boards, Hanna Brych 14+7 boards, Anastasiya Sushchyk 13+6 boards+5 as


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


Cypriot U16 National Team 2012 - by Greg

Starting five
#s#
Eleni Oikonomidou
Oikonomidou
Natalia Georgiou
Georgiou
Tijana Raca
Raca
Ivana Raca
Raca
Eleni Mavroudi
Mavroudi
#e#5
4 Styliani Theodosiou 170-SG-96
5 Eleni Oikonomidou 180-C-97
6 Despoina Chacholiadou 168-SF-97
7 Natalia Georgiou 175-PF-98
8 Tijana Raca 176-SG-97 AEL Limassol Cyprus
9 Elena Mythillou 175-SG-96
10 Ivana Raca 170-SG-99 AEL Limassol Cyprus
11 Stefanie Foukaris 180-C-97
12 Eleni Mavroudi 173-PG-96
13 Antigoni Anaxagorou 162-PG-97 Akademia Cyprus
14 Andriana Antoniou 169-SG-97
15 Elena Georgiou 177-PF-97

Constantinos Englezos Head Coach
Marinos Thrasivoulides Assistant Anagennises Cyprus



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


Tereza Brantlova agreed terms with CSU Alba Iulia - by Eurobasket News

Tereza Brantlova (172-G-82) agreed terms with CSU Alba Iulia for the upcoming season. The Czech International heads to Romania from Cadi la Seu D'urgell.
In 2004-2005 she appeared for USK Blex Praha (D1) and Europe Cup averaged 4.9ppg, 1.7rpg, 1.2apg, 0.6spg. After another season with USK Blex Praha (D1), she moved to DKSK Miskolc (Hungary-A, starting five) and showed 12.7ppg, 2.4rpg, 3.3apg, 3.4spg, 2FGP: 44.7%, 3PT: 34.4%, FT: 86.1%.
In 2007-2008 moved to Shelen-ETK Krasnoyarsk (Russia-A Superleague, starting five) and averaged 7.2ppg, 2.8rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 28.6%, 3PT: 32.4%, FT: 88.0%.In 2008-2009 headed to Elfic Fribourg Basket (Switzerland-LNA, starting five) and had high 17.8ppg, 2.6rpg, Assists-4 (4.4apg), 2.4spg, 2FGP: 58.5%, 3PT-2 (46.7%), FT: 85.9%.
The season 2009-2010 started for BK Lokomotiva Karlovy Vary (ZBL, starting five) but in Dec.'09 moved to Cadi la Seu D'urgell (Spain-LFB, starting five). In 17 games she averaged 7.2ppg, 1.4rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 38.2%, 3PT: 44.4%, FT: 76.5%.
In Nov.'10 signed at VS Praha (ZBL, starting five) and after 22 games averaged 11.1ppg, 4.1rpg, 2.6apg, Steals-3 (2.4spg), FGP: 38.9%, 3PT: 27.8%, FT: 82.7%. The last season played for Cadi la Seu D'urgell (Spain-LFB) and had 2.2ppg.


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  DENMARK   


U16 Portugal takes second place in Group E, advances to QFinals - by Eurobasket News

U16 PORTUGAL - U16 DENMARK 65-50

Portugal outplayed Denmark in the last day of the Qualifying Round in Tallinn. Portugal celebrated 15-point win ending this stage with almost perfect 4-1 record. That is enough for the second place in Group E and of course for the Quarterfinals. Their rival will be Slovenia and the game is scheduled for Friday. Denmark is the last ranked team of this pool with 0-5 score. They will be transferred to classification games from 9th-12th place. Portugal was in charge during the entire game winning all quarters, except of third (15-8, 17-13, 13-14, 20-15). Simone Costa (176-G-96) and Maria Kostourkova (188-C-97) stepped up for their country with 15 and 14 points respectively. Catarina Cavaco (165-SG-96) netted 8 points. In the loosing squad, Benedikte Von Sprechelsen (176-G-96) was better than the others with 12 points ad 9 rebounds. Etta Andersen (96) scored 11 points and Sarah Mortensen (182-F-97) had 7 pts, plus 11 boards. All teams will take a rest on Thursday.

Portugal: Simone Costa 15, Maria Kostourkova 14, Catarina Cavaco 8
Denmark: Benedikte Von Sprechelsen 12+9 boards, Etta Andersen 11, Sarah Mortensen 7+11 boards


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


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

U16 NORWAY - U16 ESTONIA 35-96

Estonia registered second win in Group G of U16 EuroBasket Division B in Tallinn. The host of this event destroyed Norway 96-35 for 2-0 record in this pool. Norway faced with its second loss and has 0-2 now. Teams in this group fight for 13th place in Tallinn. It is already clear that the crucial game will be between Estonia and Romania, as both teams are too strong for Norway and will most likely beat them again. Estonia took control on its rival in the second period and never looked back after that. Quarters: 15-17, 9-27, 6-28, 5-24. Kadri-Ann Lass (177-F-96) exploded with 28 points and 8 rebounds, while Kadri Uiga (183-F-97) added 15 points and 14 rebs with perfect 6/6 from the field. This scorer in Estonia was Marie Roosalu (177-F-96) with 12 points (6 rebs). In Norway, Kristin Hannestad (176-SF-97) had 9 points and 5 rebounds. Nini Skjulhaug (169-SG-96) and Fredrikke Hylen (174-SG-96) scored 8 and 6 points respectively. All teams will take a rest today and will play on Friday again.

Norway: Kristin Hannestad 9+5 boards, Nini Skjulhaug 8, Fredrikke Hylen 6
Estonia: Kadri-Ann Lass 28+8 boards, Kadri Uiga 15+14 boards, Marie Roosalu 12+6 boards


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  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U16   

Standings - Div.B - by Eurobasket News

Standings Div.B
Group E
1. Finland5-0
2. Portugal4-1
3. Ukraine3-2
4. Lithuania2-3
5. Israel1-4
6. Denmark0-5
Group F
1. Poland5-0
2. Latvia3-2
3. Slovenia3-2
4. Bulgaria3-2
5. Luxembourg1-4
6. Belarus0-5
Group G (positions 13-15)
1. Estonia2-0
2. Romania1-1
3. Norway0-2

Qualifying Round: Round 6

E

Jul. 18: POR - DEN 65-50
Jul. 18: LTU - FIN 62-71
Jul. 18: ISR - UKR 38-53

F

Jul. 18: BUL - BLR 76-73 OT
Jul. 18: LAT - LUX 65-55
Jul. 18: SLO - POL 53-64

G

Jul. 18: NOR - EST 35-96

Quarter-Finals: Round 7

Jul. 20: FIN - BUL
Jul. 20: POR - SLO
Jul. 20: POL - LTU
Jul. 20: LAT - UKR

Places 13-15

Jul. 20: ROM - EST

Places 9-12

Jul. 20: ISR - BLR
Jul. 20: LUX - DEN


Div B. - by Greg

Points Per Game
 Borislava HRISTOVA
  (180-F-96)
  Avg: 23.4
 1. Hristova, BUL23.4 
 2. Menna, FIN18.3 
 3. Laksa, LAT18.0 
 4. Gorobets, UKR16.7 
 5. Lass, EST15.8 
 6. Costa, POR15.7 
 7. Juskaite, LTU15.6 
 8. Dineva, BUL15.3 
 9. Panasiuk, BLR14.7 
 10. Cerneckyte, LTU14.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Paula LENART
  (178-F/G-96)
  Avg: 13
 1. Lenart, ROM13.0 
 2. Juskaite, LTU12.2 
 3. Jablonowski, LUX11.5 
 4. Mortensen, DEN11.2 
 5. Pehadzic, DEN11.2 
 6. Yatskovets, UKR11.0 
 7. Kamburova, BUL10.8 
 8. Kostourkova, POR9.5 
 9. Eneva, BUL9.5 
 10. Kuiliak, BLR9.4 
Assists Per Game
 Vasilica CUZIC
  (171-G-96)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Cuzic, ROM2.8 
 2. Ajkic, SLO2.7 
 3. Strautmane, LAT2.5 
 4. Augustin, FIN2.5 
 5. Cerneckyte, LTU2.4 
 6. Maxim, ROM2.4 
 7. Jelenc, SLO2.3 
 8. Costa, POR2.3 
 9. Helle, FIN2.3 
 10. Olszewska, POL2.3 
Steals Per Game
 Laura REISSAR
  (171-PG-97)
  Avg: 4.2
 1. Reissar, EST4.2 
 2. Zelivanski, ISR4.2 
 3. Georgieva, BUL3.3 
 4. Sasebes, ROM3.2 
 5. Panasiuk, BLR3.2 
 6. Pauly, LUX3.2 
 7. Sushchyk, BLR3.0 
 8. Ajkic, SLO3.0 
 9. Klatt, POL3.0 
 10. Banet, ISR3.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Daugile SARAUSKAITE
  (196-C-96)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Sarauskaite, LTU2.6 
 2. Strautmane, LAT1.7 
 3. Kostourkova, POR1.7 
 4. Eneva, BUL1.7 
 5. Rembiszewska, POL1.2 
 6. Gwarda, POL1.2 
 7. Jakobcic, SLO1.0 
 8. Lesek, SLO1.0 
 9. Jablonowski, LUX1.0 
 10. Brych, BLR0.8 


Division B: Qualifying Round is over, Quarterfinals set in Tallinn - by Eurobasket News

Group E
Israel - Ukraine 38-53
Ukraine advanced to the Quarterfinals of U16 EuroBasket Division B in Tallinn. They cruised past Israel 53-38 in crucial game to finish as third ranked team of Group E with 3-2 record. That is enough for the QFinals, where they will meet Latvia. At the other side, Israel failed to reach the next stage. They ended as No.5 in the group with 1-4 score and will fight for 9th place at this event. Ukraine made plus 9 already in the first quarter, after what Israel improved but was not able to resist in the last ten minutes of the game, which belonged to Ukraine 14-7 for the final 15-point win (9-18, 9-7, 13-14, 7-14). Alina Batkovska (171-PG-96) scored 15 points for Ukraine, but their key player was Olga Yatskovets (181-C-97) with 12 points and 21 rebounds (valuation 24, game MVP). Anastasiya Polovynka (176-G-96) helped her country with 11 pts and 15 boards. In defeat, Noa Zelivanski (171-PG-96) collected 9 points and 6 rebs, while Eden Porat (176-F-96) added 8 pts and 5 boards. Daniel Raber (183-PF-96) was third scorer in Israel with 5 pts (8 rebs). Championship continues on Friday.

Portugal - Denmark 65-50
Portugal outplayed Denmark in the last day of the Qualifying Round in Tallinn. Portugal celebrated 15-point win ending this stage with almost perfect 4-1 record. That is enough for the second place in Group E and of course for the Quarterfinals. Their rival will be Slovenia and the game is scheduled for Friday. Denmark is the last ranked team of this pool with 0-5 score. They will be transferred to classification games from 9th-12th place. Portugal was in charge during the entire game winning all quarters, except of third (15-8, 17-13, 13-14, 20-15). Simone Costa (176-G-96) and Maria Kostourkova (188-C-97) stepped up for their country with 15 and 14 points respectively. Catarina Cavaco (165-SG-96) netted 8 points. In the loosing squad, Benedikte Von Sprechelsen (176-G-96) was better than the others with 12 points ad 9 rebounds. Etta Andersen (96) scored 11 points and Sarah Mortensen (182-F-97) had 7 pts, plus 11 boards. All teams will take a rest on Thursday.

Lithuania - Finland 62-71
Finland is the winner of the Qualifying Group E in Tallinn (U16 Eurobasket Division B). They handed 71-62 loss to Lithuania to end this phase with perfect 5-0 record. Lithuania dropped to 2-3 after this loss, but finished as No.4 in the group and also advanced to the Quarterfinals. Tuuli Menna (183-F-96) shined for the winners with 23 points and 8 rebounds for just 18 minutes on the court. Elina Koskimies (180-F-96) scored 13 points and Olivia Moskari (175-F-96) had 8. Each of Team Finland players got at least 9 minutes in this meeting. At the other side, Laura Juskaite (187-PF-97) collected 18 points and 13 rebounds for Lithuania. Agne Cerneckyte (171-SG-96) scored 14 points and Erika Kregzdyte (178-SF-96) stopped to 8 pts and 5 rebs. Quarters: 13-9, 16-25, 22-21, 11-16. In the Quarterfinals, Finland will meet Bulgaria, while Lithuania will play against Poland. All QFinals games are scheduled for Friday.

Group F
Latvia - Luxembourg 65-55
Latvia made it in do-or-die game against Luxembourg in the last day of the Qualifying Round at U16 EuroBasket Division B in Tallinn. Latvia celebrated 65-55 win to grab the second place in Group F with 3-2 record. That is enough for the Quarterfinals, where Latvia will meet Ukraine. Luxembourg ended as No.5 in this pool with 1-4 record and will continue in Classification Round. Latvia made 12-point lead at the halftime and jumped to plus 21 with ten minutes to go. Luxembourg finally showed some of their talent in Q4, but that was not enough. Quarters: 18-10, 15-11, 17-8, 15-26. Kitija Laksa (180-G-96) and Kitija Stolce (184-F-96) (8 rebs) scored 14 and 12 points respectively for the winners. Their third scorers were Paula Luke (185-C-96) (8 rebs) and Marta Bergmane (178-PG-96) (6 rebs) with 7 points each. Luxembourg got 12 points and 5 rebs from Mia Pauly (176-F-96). Jessy Goergen (173-PG-97) scored 9 pts in this defeat. Competition continues on Friday. As mentioned above, Latvia will meet Ukraine, while Luxembourg will play against Denmark.

Bulgaria - Belarus 76-73 OT
Bulgaria advanced to the Quarterfinals of U16 EuroBasket Division B in Tallinn. They grabbed 76-73 overtime win against Belarus ending the Qualifying Round as fourth ranked team of Group F with 3-2 record. Bulgaria's rival in the QFinals will be Finland. At the other side, Belarus faced with another loss and finished as the last ranked team in this pool with 0-5. They will continue in classification games from 9th-12th place. It was a very exciting meeting and Bulgaria players were focused when it mattered most to take the victory in this game. Quarters: 23-17, 11-19, 13-24, 23-10, 6-3 OT. Borislava Hristova (180-F-96) shined for the winners with 25 points and 10 rebounds. Maria Kamburova (182-F-96) also had impressive performance with 16 points and 19 rebs. Actually, she was the MVP of this meeting with valuation 27. Teodora Dineva (175-G-96) scored 15 pts in Bulgaria. Darya Panasiuk (175-SF-96) answered with 23 pts and 8 rebs in defeat, and Hanna Brych (183-C-97) added 14 pts, plus 7 rebs. Anastasiya Sushchyk (160-PG-97) followed them with 13 points, 6 rebs and 5 assists. All teams will take a rest on Thursday and will play again on Friday.

Slovenia - Poland 53-64
Poland had another joyful day in Tallinn beating Slovenia 64-53. It was the last day of the Qualifying Round at U16 EuroBasket Division B and Poland won Group F with perfect 5-0 score. They will meet Lithuania in the Quarterfinals. Slovenia also advanced to the next stage, but as No.3 in this pool. They will play against Portugal in QFinals. Poland took control on its rival in the second quarter making 7-point lead at the halftime. Slovenia improved after the breather, but Amalia Rembiszewska (189-F-96) and her teammates intensified defense in Q4 to celebrate 11-point win at the end. Quarters: 15-14, 9-17, 20-18, 9-15. Rembiszewska was the leading player in victory with 14 points and 12 rebounds, while their top scorer was Monika Radomska (188-PF-96) with 16 points. Patrycja Klatt (171-G-96) secured a nice help with 13 pts. In the loosing squad, Maja Jakobcic (184-PF-97) and Manca Jelenc (172-PG-96) scored 17 and 14 points respectively. Zala Lesek (187-F-97) collected 8 points and 7 boards. Championship continues on Friday and all teams will take a rest today.

Group G
Norway - Estonia 35-96
Estonia registered second win in Group G of U16 EuroBasket Division B in Tallinn. The host of this event destroyed Norway 96-35 for 2-0 record in this pool. Norway faced with its second loss and has 0-2 now. Teams in this group fight for 13th place in Tallinn. It is already clear that the crucial game will be between Estonia and Romania, as both teams are too strong for Norway and will most likely beat them again. Estonia took control on its rival in the second period and never looked back after that. Quarters: 15-17, 9-27, 6-28, 5-24. Kadri-Ann Lass (177-F-96) exploded with 28 points and 8 rebounds, while Kadri Uiga (183-F-97) added 15 points and 14 rebs with perfect 6/6 from the field. This scorer in Estonia was Marie Roosalu (177-F-96) with 12 points (6 rebs). In Norway, Kristin Hannestad (176-SF-97) had 9 points and 5 rebounds. Nini Skjulhaug (169-SG-96) and Fredrikke Hylen (174-SG-96) scored 8 and 6 points respectively. All teams will take a rest today and will play on Friday again.


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  FINLAND   


U16 Finland heads to Quarterfinals undefeated - by Eurobasket News

U16 LITHUANIA - U16 FINLAND 62-71

Finland is the winner of the Qualifying Group E in Tallinn (U16 Eurobasket Division B). They handed 71-62 loss to Lithuania to end this phase with perfect 5-0 record. Lithuania dropped to 2-3 after this loss, but finished as No.4 in the group and also advanced to the Quarterfinals. Tuuli Menna (183-F-96) shined for the winners with 23 points and 8 rebounds for just 18 minutes on the court. Elina Koskimies (180-F-96) scored 13 points and Olivia Moskari (175-F-96) had 8. Each of Team Finland players got at least 9 minutes in this meeting. At the other side, Laura Juskaite (187-PF-97) collected 18 points and 13 rebounds for Lithuania. Agne Cerneckyte (171-SG-96) scored 14 points and Erika Kregzdyte (178-SF-96) stopped to 8 pts and 5 rebs. Quarters: 13-9, 16-25, 22-21, 11-16. In the Quarterfinals, Finland will meet Bulgaria, while Lithuania will play against Poland. All QFinals games are scheduled for Friday.

Lithuania: Laura Juskaite 18+13 boards, Agne Cerneckyte 14, Erika Kregzdyte 8+5 boards
Finland: Tuuli Menna 23+8 boards, Elina Koskimies 13, Olivia Moskari 8


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  HUNGARY   


Pecs 2010 keep Laczi Edit, Torok Szilvia, Sarok Nikolett and Penzes Kinga - by Eurobasket News

Pecs 2010 keep Edit Laczi (181-G/F-88), Szilvia Torok (176-G/F-81), Nikolett Sarok (180-G/F-90) and Kinga Penzes (176-G/F-83) for 2012/2013 season. The team announced the players to stay for another year.
Edit Laczi joined the team last season and in 25 games averaged 5.6ppg, 3.5rpg, 1.8apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 52.8%, 3PT: 27.6%, FT: 57.5%. Earlier in 2010-2011 she played for Mediteam Szeged and showed 13.3ppg, 4.2rpg, 3.8apg, 3.0spg, FGP: 48.9%, 3PT: 20.0%, FT: 69.2%.
Szilvia Torok played earlier in Acer ERG Priolo (Italy-A1, starting five) and averaged 6.5ppg, 3.1rpg, 2.5spg, FGP: 38.0%, 3PT: 23.8%, FT: 70.4%. In 2011-2012 joined Pecs 2010 (Hungary-A) and had 4.3ppg, 2.8rpg, Assists-4 (3.5apg), 1.7spg.
Nikolett Sarok will enter her 7th year in a row. In 2011-2012 she averaged 5.2ppg, 2.2rpg, 1.2apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 44.6%, 3PT: 14.3%, FT: 68.4%.
Kinga Penzes signed with the team last season and in 12 games averaged 2.8ppg, 1.0rpg.


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  ICELAND   


Icelandic U16 National Team 2012 - by Greg

Starting five
#s#
Elsa Run Karlsdottir
Karlsdottir
Gudlaug Bjort Juliusdottir
Juliusdottir
Sandra Lind Thrastardottir
Thrastardottir
Sara Run Hinriksdottir
Hinriksdottir
Briet Hinriksdottir
Hinriksdottir
#e#5
4 Solrun Gisladottir 173-PG-96 Haukar Iceland
5 Gudbjorg Einarsdottir 164-PG-96
6 Elsa Run Karlsdottir 188-C-96 Valur Iceland
7 Elinora Einarsdottir 170-PG-96
8 Nina Kristjansdottir 189-C-96
9 Dagny Lisa Davidsdottir 182-F-97 Hamar Iceland
10 Margret Einarsdottir 172-SG-96 Valur Iceland
11 Gudlaug Bjort Juliusdottir 172-SF-96 Njardvik Iceland
12 Sandra Lind Thrastardottir 180-C-96 Keflavik Iceland
13 Solrun Saemundsdottir 173-PG-96 KR Iceland
14 Sara Run Hinriksdottir 181-F-96 Keflavik Iceland
15 Briet Hinriksdottir 181-G/F-96 Keflavik Iceland

Tomas Holton Head Coach Fjolnir Iceland
Finnur Jonsson Assistant
Stefania Ludviksdottir Assistant



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  ISRAEL   


U16 Ukraine heads to Quarterfinals in Tallinn - by Eurobasket News

U16 ISRAEL - U16 UKRAINE 38-53

Ukraine advanced to the Quarterfinals of U16 EuroBasket Division B in Tallinn. They cruised past Israel 53-38 in crucial game to finish as third ranked team of Group E with 3-2 record. That is enough for the QFinals, where they will meet Latvia. At the other side, Israel failed to reach the next stage. They ended as No.5 in the group with 1-4 score and will fight for 9th place at this event. Ukraine made plus 9 already in the first quarter, after what Israel improved but was not able to resist in the last ten minutes of the game, which belonged to Ukraine 14-7 for the final 15-point win (9-18, 9-7, 13-14, 7-14). Alina Batkovska (171-PG-96) scored 15 points for Ukraine, but their key player was Olga Yatskovets (181-C-97) with 12 points and 21 rebounds (valuation 24, game MVP). Anastasiya Polovynka (176-G-96) helped her country with 11 pts and 15 boards. In defeat, Noa Zelivanski (171-PG-96) collected 9 points and 6 rebs, while Eden Porat (176-F-96) added 8 pts and 5 boards. Daniel Raber (183-PF-96) was third scorer in Israel with 5 pts (8 rebs). Championship continues on Friday.

Israel: Noa Zelivanski 9+6 boards, Eden Porat 8+5 boards, Daniel Raber 5+8 boards
Ukraine: Alina Batkovska 15, Olga Yatskovets 12+21 boards, Anastasiya Polovynka 11+15 boards


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  LATVIA   


U16 Latvia beats U16 Luxembourg in do-or-die game in Tallinn - by Eurobasket News

U16 LATVIA - U16 LUXEMBOURG 65-55

Latvia made it in do-or-die game against Luxembourg in the last day of the Qualifying Round at U16 EuroBasket Division B in Tallinn. Latvia celebrated 65-55 win to grab the second place in Group F with 3-2 record. That is enough for the Quarterfinals, where Latvia will meet Ukraine. Luxembourg ended as No.5 in this pool with 1-4 record and will continue in Classification Round. Latvia made 12-point lead at the halftime and jumped to plus 21 with ten minutes to go. Luxembourg finally showed some of their talent in Q4, but that was not enough. Quarters: 18-10, 15-11, 17-8, 15-26. Kitija Laksa (180-G-96) and Kitija Stolce (184-F-96) (8 rebs) scored 14 and 12 points respectively for the winners. Their third scorers were Paula Luke (185-C-96) (8 rebs) and Marta Bergmane (178-PG-96) (6 rebs) with 7 points each. Luxembourg got 12 points and 5 rebs from Mia Pauly (176-F-96). Jessy Goergen (173-PG-97) scored 9 pts in this defeat. Competition continues on Friday. As mentioned above, Latvia will meet Ukraine, while Luxembourg will play against Denmark.

Latvia: Kitija Laksa 14, Kitija Stolce 12+8 boards, Paula Luke 8, Marta Bergmane 7+6 boards
Luxembourg: Mia Pauly 12+5 boards, Jessy Goergen 9


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  LITHUANIA   


U16 Finland heads to Quarterfinals undefeated - by Eurobasket News

U16 LITHUANIA - U16 FINLAND 62-71

Finland is the winner of the Qualifying Group E in Tallinn (U16 Eurobasket Division B). They handed 71-62 loss to Lithuania to end this phase with perfect 5-0 record. Lithuania dropped to 2-3 after this loss, but finished as No.4 in the group and also advanced to the Quarterfinals. Tuuli Menna (183-F-96) shined for the winners with 23 points and 8 rebounds for just 18 minutes on the court. Elina Koskimies (180-F-96) scored 13 points and Olivia Moskari (175-F-96) had 8. Each of Team Finland players got at least 9 minutes in this meeting. At the other side, Laura Juskaite (187-PF-97) collected 18 points and 13 rebounds for Lithuania. Agne Cerneckyte (171-SG-96) scored 14 points and Erika Kregzdyte (178-SF-96) stopped to 8 pts and 5 rebs. Quarters: 13-9, 16-25, 22-21, 11-16. In the Quarterfinals, Finland will meet Bulgaria, while Lithuania will play against Poland. All QFinals games are scheduled for Friday.

Lithuania: Laura Juskaite 18+13 boards, Agne Cerneckyte 14, Erika Kregzdyte 8+5 boards
Finland: Tuuli Menna 23+8 boards, Elina Koskimies 13, Olivia Moskari 8


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  LUXEMBOURG   


U16 Latvia beats U16 Luxembourg in do-or-die game in Tallinn - by Eurobasket News

U16 LATVIA - U16 LUXEMBOURG 65-55

Latvia made it in do-or-die game against Luxembourg in the last day of the Qualifying Round at U16 EuroBasket Division B in Tallinn. Latvia celebrated 65-55 win to grab the second place in Group F with 3-2 record. That is enough for the Quarterfinals, where Latvia will meet Ukraine. Luxembourg ended as No.5 in this pool with 1-4 record and will continue in Classification Round. Latvia made 12-point lead at the halftime and jumped to plus 21 with ten minutes to go. Luxembourg finally showed some of their talent in Q4, but that was not enough. Quarters: 18-10, 15-11, 17-8, 15-26. Kitija Laksa (180-G-96) and Kitija Stolce (184-F-96) (8 rebs) scored 14 and 12 points respectively for the winners. Their third scorers were Paula Luke (185-C-96) (8 rebs) and Marta Bergmane (178-PG-96) (6 rebs) with 7 points each. Luxembourg got 12 points and 5 rebs from Mia Pauly (176-F-96). Jessy Goergen (173-PG-97) scored 9 pts in this defeat. Competition continues on Friday. As mentioned above, Latvia will meet Ukraine, while Luxembourg will play against Denmark.

Latvia: Kitija Laksa 14, Kitija Stolce 12+8 boards, Paula Luke 8, Marta Bergmane 7+6 boards
Luxembourg: Mia Pauly 12+5 boards, Jessy Goergen 9


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  MALTA   


Maltese U16 National Team 2012 - by Greg

Starting five
#s#
Julia Xerri
Xerri
Francesca Mifsud
Mifsud
Claudia Camilleri
Camilleri
Christina Curmi
Curmi
Iona Agius
Agius
#e#5
4 Monique Caruana 146-PG-96
5 Julia Xerri 167-G-96
6 Christabelle Camilleri 170-F-96
7 Francesca Mifsud 169-F-96
8 Iona Agius 153-SG-97
9 Claudia Camilleri 164-F-97
10 Cristina Sollami 172-F/C-97
11 Denise Gilford 175-F-97
12 Naomi Farrugia 153-G-97
13 Kimberly Portanier 167-F-97
14 Elena Pace 172-G/F-96
15 Christina Curmi 165-G/F-96
Nicole Agius 158-G-98
Raisa Calleja 158-SG-98
Kristina Critien 176-F-96
Julia Schembri 152-PG-97

Sandro Farrugia Head Coach



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  NCAA1   


Woman gets 29 years for death of MTSU player - by Eurobasket News

A Memphis woman has been sentenced to 29 years in prison for fatally stabbing a Middle Tennessee State University women's basketball player.

Rutherford County Circuit Court Judge Don Ash on Tuesday sentenced Shanterrica Madden of Memphis to 25 years for second-degree murder and four years for tampering with evidence. The sentences will be served consecutively.

Madden was convicted in May in the March 2, 2011, death of 21-year-old Tina Stewart (5'7''-G) at an off-campus apartment they shared.

At her trial, Madden acknowledged stabbing Stewart but said she acted in self-defense against her larger and more athletic roommate.

Madden is 4 feet 11 inches. She told the jury that a fight in Stewart's bedroom became physical when the 5-foot-7 player began hitting her. Madden said she defended herself with a knife.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com


Obama honors Baylor women's undefeated basketball team - by Eurobasket News

President Barack Obama on Wednesday thanked the Baylor University women's basketball team for helping him get it right -- at least in the realm of NCAA basketball.

"I want to thank all the outstanding young women who are behind me, and the coach, for making my bracket look good -- at least on the women's side," Obama joked. The president had correctly picked the Texas school to beat Notre Dame in the NCAA championship game.

"He's the smartest president we've had," said Lady Bears coach Kim Mulkey-Robertson.

In the East Room of the White House, Obama congratulated the team for its 40-0 record as well as its academic and extracurricular successes. Some players had perfect GPAs, he said. They read for students at Waco elementary schools, worked at homeless shelters, built houses in Kenya and worked at an AIDS orphanage.

They are, he said, a "terrific example for girls everywhere."

The Lady Bears broke the NCAA record -- men's and women's -- for the most wins in a single season. Their success comes 40 years after the passage of Title IX, which gave women and girls equal opportunities to play sports.

"As the father of two daughters who are tall and beautiful just like them, it is great to have role models who can show that women can be strong and athletic and competitive but also play as a team," Obama said.

Obama gave special recognition to the team's star player, the Associated Press player of the year, 6-foot-8 Brittney Griner.

"This young woman is the new face of women's basketball. She blocks shots, she rebounds, she's got the jump hook, she's got the dunk," Obama said. Griner, along with the other team members, met the president individually before his speech.

"This means everything," Griner said in an interview after the ceremony. "This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, to come to the White House, to meet the president, to shake his hand. It was amazing."

Forward Destiny Williams agreed.

"He's taller than I expected, though, unless his ears give him a couple inches," Williams said.

Obama said Mulkey, AP's coach of the year, is the first in the history of college basketball to win titles in three roles: player, assistant coach and head coach. Mulkey won two as a player and one as an assistant coach at Louisiana Tech and now two as Baylor's head coach.

"I heard she plans to win her next one as mascot," Obama said to laughter.

The president has a long personal history with basketball. In Barack Obama: The Story, author David Maraniss wrote that basketball is "central to his self-identity." He's played basketball recreationally throughout his life and now helps coach his daughter Sasha's team.

Griner, a rising senior, said she definitely wants to come back to the White House next year. With her and the other four starters returning, Obama's betting on them again.

"I suspect that they're the odds-on favorite for my bracket next year as well," he said.

Courtesy of www.star-telegram.com


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


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

U16 NORWAY - U16 ESTONIA 35-96

Estonia registered second win in Group G of U16 EuroBasket Division B in Tallinn. The host of this event destroyed Norway 96-35 for 2-0 record in this pool. Norway faced with its second loss and has 0-2 now. Teams in this group fight for 13th place in Tallinn. It is already clear that the crucial game will be between Estonia and Romania, as both teams are too strong for Norway and will most likely beat them again. Estonia took control on its rival in the second period and never looked back after that. Quarters: 15-17, 9-27, 6-28, 5-24. Kadri-Ann Lass (177-F-96) exploded with 28 points and 8 rebounds, while Kadri Uiga (183-F-97) added 15 points and 14 rebs with perfect 6/6 from the field. This scorer in Estonia was Marie Roosalu (177-F-96) with 12 points (6 rebs). In Norway, Kristin Hannestad (176-SF-97) had 9 points and 5 rebounds. Nini Skjulhaug (169-SG-96) and Fredrikke Hylen (174-SG-96) scored 8 and 6 points respectively. All teams will take a rest today and will play on Friday again.

Norway: Kristin Hannestad 9+5 boards, Nini Skjulhaug 8, Fredrikke Hylen 6
Estonia: Kadri-Ann Lass 28+8 boards, Kadri Uiga 15+14 boards, Marie Roosalu 12+6 boards


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  POLAND   


U16 Poland extends winning streak in Tallinn, wins Group F with 5-0 - by Eurobasket News

U16 SLOVENIA - U16 POLAND 53-64

Poland had another joyful day in Tallinn beating Slovenia 64-53. It was the last day of the Qualifying Round at U16 EuroBasket Division B and Poland won Group F with perfect 5-0 score. They will meet Lithuania in the Quarterfinals. Slovenia also advanced to the next stage, but as No.3 in this pool. They will play against Portugal in QFinals. Poland took control on its rival in the second quarter making 7-point lead at the halftime. Slovenia improved after the breather, but Amalia Rembiszewska (189-F-96) and her teammates intensified defense in Q4 to celebrate 11-point win at the end. Quarters: 15-14, 9-17, 20-18, 9-15. Rembiszewska was the leading player in victory with 14 points and 12 rebounds, while their top scorer was Monika Radomska (188-PF-96) with 16 points. Patrycja Klatt (171-G-96) secured a nice help with 13 pts. In the loosing squad, Maja Jakobcic (184-PF-97) and Manca Jelenc (172-PG-96) scored 17 and 14 points respectively. Zala Lesek (187-F-97) collected 8 points and 7 boards. Championship continues on Friday and all teams will take a rest today.

Slovenia: Maja Jakobcic 17, Manca Jelenc 14, Zala Lesek 8+7 boards
Poland: Monika Radomska 16, Amalia Rembiszewska 14+12 boards, Patrycja Klatt 13


Suknarowska complements Wisla Can-Pack Krakows roster - by Lukasz Lukaszewski

TS Wisla Can-Pack Krakow agreed terms of contract with Katarzyna Suknarowska (170-PG-87). That player will be another point guard in the 8th team of Euroleague Women 2011/2012. Probably she will not play much, because coach Jose Ignacio Hernandez has two great players on this position: Cristina Ouvina (174-G-90) and Paulina Pawlak (170-PG-84, agency: Data Plus Group).

Katarzyna Suknarowska is 25-year old point guard. She was born in Krakow, but she has not played in TS Wisla Can-Pack Krakow yet. She is known as a player of KK ROW Rybnik, where she spends 3 years in PLKK. Only in 2010/2011 season Suknarowska was a starting five player. In 24 matches she averaged 5,9 points and 2,3 assists. Previous year was not as good as 2010/2011. In 33 games that 25-year old point guard noticed 3,7 points per game and 1,4 assist per game. She does not have experience from European cups, but she was a part of Polish U18, U20 and University National Team.



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  PORTUGAL   


U16 Portugal takes second place in Group E, advances to QFinals - by Eurobasket News

U16 PORTUGAL - U16 DENMARK 65-50

Portugal outplayed Denmark in the last day of the Qualifying Round in Tallinn. Portugal celebrated 15-point win ending this stage with almost perfect 4-1 record. That is enough for the second place in Group E and of course for the Quarterfinals. Their rival will be Slovenia and the game is scheduled for Friday. Denmark is the last ranked team of this pool with 0-5 score. They will be transferred to classification games from 9th-12th place. Portugal was in charge during the entire game winning all quarters, except of third (15-8, 17-13, 13-14, 20-15). Simone Costa (176-G-96) and Maria Kostourkova (188-C-97) stepped up for their country with 15 and 14 points respectively. Catarina Cavaco (165-SG-96) netted 8 points. In the loosing squad, Benedikte Von Sprechelsen (176-G-96) was better than the others with 12 points ad 9 rebounds. Etta Andersen (96) scored 11 points and Sarah Mortensen (182-F-97) had 7 pts, plus 11 boards. All teams will take a rest on Thursday.

Portugal: Simone Costa 15, Maria Kostourkova 14, Catarina Cavaco 8
Denmark: Benedikte Von Sprechelsen 12+9 boards, Etta Andersen 11, Sarah Mortensen 7+11 boards


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  ROMANIA   


Tereza Brantlova agreed terms with CSU Alba Iulia - by Eurobasket News

Tereza Brantlova (172-G-82) agreed terms with CSU Alba Iulia for the upcoming season. The Czech International heads to Romania from Cadi la Seu D'urgell.
In 2004-2005 she appeared for USK Blex Praha (D1) and Europe Cup averaged 4.9ppg, 1.7rpg, 1.2apg, 0.6spg. After another season with USK Blex Praha (D1), she moved to DKSK Miskolc (Hungary-A, starting five) and showed 12.7ppg, 2.4rpg, 3.3apg, 3.4spg, 2FGP: 44.7%, 3PT: 34.4%, FT: 86.1%.
In 2007-2008 moved to Shelen-ETK Krasnoyarsk (Russia-A Superleague, starting five) and averaged 7.2ppg, 2.8rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 28.6%, 3PT: 32.4%, FT: 88.0%.In 2008-2009 headed to Elfic Fribourg Basket (Switzerland-LNA, starting five) and had high 17.8ppg, 2.6rpg, Assists-4 (4.4apg), 2.4spg, 2FGP: 58.5%, 3PT-2 (46.7%), FT: 85.9%.
The season 2009-2010 started for BK Lokomotiva Karlovy Vary (ZBL, starting five) but in Dec.'09 moved to Cadi la Seu D'urgell (Spain-LFB, starting five). In 17 games she averaged 7.2ppg, 1.4rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 38.2%, 3PT: 44.4%, FT: 76.5%.
In Nov.'10 signed at VS Praha (ZBL, starting five) and after 22 games averaged 11.1ppg, 4.1rpg, 2.6apg, Steals-3 (2.4spg), FGP: 38.9%, 3PT: 27.8%, FT: 82.7%. The last season played for Cadi la Seu D'urgell (Spain-LFB) and had 2.2ppg.


Kari Laplante signs deal with ICIM Arad - by Eurobasket News

Kari Laplante (195-C-89, college: USC) will stay in Romania for the next season. Her new employer is former champion ICIM Arad. Laplante arrives to the club from BCT Alexandria, where she had 14.8 ppg and 9.7 rpg fro 28 games last season. For her performance Laplante was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Romanian League Honorable Mention -12. It was her first pro deal.
Kari Laplante graduated at the University of Southern California something more than a year ago. She had 6 ppg and 5.6 rpg for the school in 37 games as a senior. USC reached NIT Finals that year (National Invitational Tournament). In 2010, Laplante was named Pac-10 All-Defensive Honorable Mention and two years before that she was awarded with Pac-10 All-Freshman Honorable Mention.
In the other news coming from ICIM Arad Ildiko Nagy (187-F-84) left the club for CSU Alba Iulia.


CSU Alba Iulia signs Ildiko Nagy for 2012/13 - by Eurobasket News

Ildiko Nagy (187-F-84) is a new member of CSU Alba Iulia, according to Romanian media (Totalbaschet.ro). Reportedly, the player signed a deal for the next season. Nagy spent the last one with ICIM Arad. She helped them reach Playoff and Cup Semifinals. The forward had 5.6 ppg and 2.7 rpg for 31 games in the league. A year ago Nagy and ICIM Arad were Romanian league, Cup and CEWL champions. That season she averaged 6.4 points and 4 rebounds in 24 league games. Before Arad, Ildiko Nagy played two years for Sfantu Gheorghe. They won the league title in 2006. In the past, Nagy spent several years with Arad winning the championship title in 2006. A year before that Nagy captured domestic league title and Cup with Targoviste. She played for the Romanian National Team at 2005 EuroBasket in Turkey.


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  SCOTLAND   


Scottish U16 National Team 2012 - by Greg

Starting five
#s#
Lauren Forde
Forde
Shannon Flippard
Flippard
Keri Jackson
Jackson
Erin Campbell
Campbell
Katie Fergus
Fergus
#e#5
4 Lauren Forde 171-SF-98
5 Shannon Flippard 161-PG-96 Clark Eriksson Scotland
6 Keri Jackson 171-PF-96
7 Michelle Bradley 164-SG-96
8 Mirren Summers SG-96
9 Cara Black 163-PG-97
10 Taylor McKeown 165-SG-96
11 Erin Campbell 164-SG-96
12 Abbie Wheeler SG-96
13 Shannon Purves 179-C-96
14 Katie Fergus 179-C-96
15 Samantha Butler 180-PF-96

Luis Romero Head Coach Polonia Phoenix Scotland
David Evans Assistant



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


Maja Miljkovic joins Romanian champions - by Eurobasket News

Maja Miljkovic (175-G-88, agency: LBM Management) will continue her career in Romania. The Serbian guard signed a one-year deal with the reigning champions CSM Targoviste. They will compete in Euroleague next season. Miljkovic arrives to the club from French Tarbes, where she spent 2011/12. She appeared 11 times in Euroleague averaging 7.3 points, 2.2 assists and 1.9 rebounds. The player also added 4.5 ppg and 1.3 rpg for 24 games in French LFB. Miljkovic started last season with Partizan and in October moved to Tarbes. In 2011, Maja Miljkovic won the French league title with Bourges. She had 5 ppg, 2.7 apg and 2.6 rpg for 28 games. In the past, Miljkovic played for Euroleasing Sopron, Celta Vigo, Usce and Dubocica. She also played for Serbian National Team from 2007 to 2009.


U20 Serbia fails in its first check - by Eurobasket News

U20 Serbia and U20 Turkey met in a friendly game on Tuesday. Serbia was the host, but faced with 44-53 loss in its first game during the preparations for U20 EuroBasket in Hungary. The game was played in Loznica. Snezana Colic (178-G-92) was the leading scorer in Serbia with 9 points and Ivana Brajkovic (195-C-93) followed her with 6 pts. Vida Emese (188-F/C-93) and Tamara Rajic (182-G/F-93) scored 5 points each in this meeting. Turkey was up by 3 points at the halftime and they jumped to plus 5 with ten minutes to go. Serbia scored just 7 points for rest of the way and Turkey celebrated almost double digit win at the end. Serbia and Turkey will meet in another friendly game today. U20 EuroBasket in Hungary begins on August 16. Serbias rivals in Preliminary Round will be Slovakia, Russia and Great Britain.


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  SLOVENIA   


U16 Poland extends winning streak in Tallinn, wins Group F with 5-0 - by Eurobasket News

U16 SLOVENIA - U16 POLAND 53-64

Poland had another joyful day in Tallinn beating Slovenia 64-53. It was the last day of the Qualifying Round at U16 EuroBasket Division B and Poland won Group F with perfect 5-0 score. They will meet Lithuania in the Quarterfinals. Slovenia also advanced to the next stage, but as No.3 in this pool. They will play against Portugal in QFinals. Poland took control on its rival in the second quarter making 7-point lead at the halftime. Slovenia improved after the breather, but Amalia Rembiszewska (189-F-96) and her teammates intensified defense in Q4 to celebrate 11-point win at the end. Quarters: 15-14, 9-17, 20-18, 9-15. Rembiszewska was the leading player in victory with 14 points and 12 rebounds, while their top scorer was Monika Radomska (188-PF-96) with 16 points. Patrycja Klatt (171-G-96) secured a nice help with 13 pts. In the loosing squad, Maja Jakobcic (184-PF-97) and Manca Jelenc (172-PG-96) scored 17 and 14 points respectively. Zala Lesek (187-F-97) collected 8 points and 7 boards. Championship continues on Friday and all teams will take a rest today.

Slovenia: Maja Jakobcic 17, Manca Jelenc 14, Zala Lesek 8+7 boards
Poland: Monika Radomska 16, Amalia Rembiszewska 14+12 boards, Patrycja Klatt 13


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  UKRAINE   


U16 Ukraine heads to Quarterfinals in Tallinn - by Eurobasket News

U16 ISRAEL - U16 UKRAINE 38-53

Ukraine advanced to the Quarterfinals of U16 EuroBasket Division B in Tallinn. They cruised past Israel 53-38 in crucial game to finish as third ranked team of Group E with 3-2 record. That is enough for the QFinals, where they will meet Latvia. At the other side, Israel failed to reach the next stage. They ended as No.5 in the group with 1-4 score and will fight for 9th place at this event. Ukraine made plus 9 already in the first quarter, after what Israel improved but was not able to resist in the last ten minutes of the game, which belonged to Ukraine 14-7 for the final 15-point win (9-18, 9-7, 13-14, 7-14). Alina Batkovska (171-PG-96) scored 15 points for Ukraine, but their key player was Olga Yatskovets (181-C-97) with 12 points and 21 rebounds (valuation 24, game MVP). Anastasiya Polovynka (176-G-96) helped her country with 11 pts and 15 boards. In defeat, Noa Zelivanski (171-PG-96) collected 9 points and 6 rebs, while Eden Porat (176-F-96) added 8 pts and 5 boards. Daniel Raber (183-PF-96) was third scorer in Israel with 5 pts (8 rebs). Championship continues on Friday.

Israel: Noa Zelivanski 9+6 boards, Eden Porat 8+5 boards, Daniel Raber 5+8 boards
Ukraine: Alina Batkovska 15, Olga Yatskovets 12+21 boards, Anastasiya Polovynka 11+15 boards


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Sue Bird misses US exhibition game; death in family - by Eurobasket News

United States women's basketball point guard Sue Bird (5'9''-G-80, college: Connecticut) did not play in the U.S. exhibition game against Brazil on Monday night because of the death of her stepfather.

Bird, who will be playing in her third Olympics at the London Games, practiced with the team this weekend, but left Sunday be with her family. USA Basketball officials did not say when Bird would be rejoining the team.

"I said take whatever amount of time you need, come back when you need to come back," U.S. coach Geno Auriemma said. "She may or not play in the game in Manchester. She might meet us there or meet us in Istanbul, we'll know Tuesday."

Lindsay Whalen replaced the Seatle Storm star in the starting lineup, joining Diana Taurasi, Candace Parker, Tamika Catchings and Sylvia Fowles. Whalen led the team with 21 points in the 99-67 rout of Brazil.

Courtesy of www.king5.com