EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 7/21/2012 1:04:01 AM

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Men News

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  AUSTRALIA   



NBL moves forward with eight teams - by Eurobasket News

Basketball Australia today confirmed that the National Basketball League would move forward as an eight-team competition after the owners of the Gold Coast Blaze chose to withdraw from the competition.

As a result of the Blazes decision, eight teams will make up the 2012/13 iiNet NBL Championship competition - the Adelaide 36ers, Cairns Taipans, Melbourne Tigers, New Zealand Breakers, Perth Wildcats, Sydney Kings, Townsville Crocodiles and Wollongong Hawks.

Basketball Australia Acting Chief Executive Officer Scott Derwin said the competition would continue to move forward and build on the growth of recent seasons.

Ultimately, we wont allow this decision by the Blaze to detract from the momentum our sport has started to gather over the past three years, said Derwin.

As a league we have seen significant growth over the past three seasons, with attendances rising each year, our TV and on-line audience growing rapidly and the return from our commercial partnerships reaching new highs. We are also poised to make some major announcements around further strategic developments in the coming weeks.

The reality is its genuinely tough out there in the business community in all sectors, and sport is not immune to that. If you look to all major sports youll see organisations dealing with significant and difficult financial challenges.

But the resurgence and growth of the NBL has not occurred by accident weve put a lot of hard work towards strong governance and the development of long term commercial partnerships to get back to a position of strength.

Its naturally disappointing to see a club withdraw at this point, but were confident the long term and future prosperity of the league will remain strong.

Were on the verge of something very exciting here we can and should be proud of our recent achievements, and we can and should maintain our energy for the season ahead.

The iiNet NBL Championship season will still commence on October 5th as previously announced and Basketball Australia already has an eight-team schedule approved and ready to be released shortly.

The revised fixture will predominantly involve the NBLs eight remaining teams changing opponents rather than home dates.

The league will still feature a 24 round season, as well as the recently announced NBL All-Stars weekend, and the top four NBL Finals system remains unchanged.

Background information League Facts:

Attendance has grown by 20% since governance reform in 2009/10;

This years finals series attendance grew from 26,000 to 52,500;

The NBL secured a five-year, free to air broadcast contract with Network Ten (and recently released a significantly enhanced broadcast position for the remaining 3 years of the contract);

This seasons total audiences in Australia and New Zealand shot up by 457,000;

Licensing program sales have grown by 298% this season;

Website visitation is achieving 50 % growth year on year; and

The league has invested in the development of the four year NBL Business Plan Transition 2015 and committed to achieving its outcomes.

Courtesy of NBL Australia


Khazzouh impresses for Lakers - by Eurobasket News

BOXSCORE ll VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS

Former Sydney Kings centre Julian Khazzouh (209-C-86) has shown the sort of improved form at the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas that just might earn him a spot on the LA Lakers roster.

Khazzouh, who is playing for the Lakers in the Summer League in the hopes of earning an NBA contract, started at centre and had 16 points, six rebounds, two assists, one blocked shot and one steal as the Lakers notched a 75-69 victory over cross-town rivals the LA Clippers.

Khazzouh helped the Lakers get off to a fast start, scoring ten first quarter points, including two three-pointers to give the Lakers a 28-12 advantage. The former Kings star was 4-for-5 from three point land for the game.

That strong effort built on his previous solid performance in the Lakers previous game, a 92-81 loss to the San Antonio Spurs. Khazzouh had eight points, four rebounds, two assists and one steal in that match.

Khazzouh had a brief stint with the Golden State Warriors this past December but was waived before the start of the 2011/12 season.

The Lakers have now wrapped up their NBA Summer League slate and have finished with a 1-4 record here in Las Vegas.

See Khazzouhs Summer League stats here.

Courtesy of NBL Australia


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  AUSTRIA   

Standings - A Bundesliga

A Bundesliga Standings
 1. Arkadia 0-0 
 2. BC Vienna 0-0 
 3. Furstenfeld 0-0 
 4. Gmunden 0-0 
 5. Gussing 0-0 
 6. Kapfenberg 0-0 
 7. Klosterneub. 0-0 
 8. Oberwart 0-0 
 9. St.Polten 0-0 
 10. UBSC Graz 0-0 
 11. Wels 0-0 

Regular Season: Round 1

Oct. 5: BC Vienna - St.Polten
Oct. 6: Gussing - Arkadia
Oct. 6: Wels - Oberwart
Oct. 7: Klosterneub. - Kapfenberg
Oct. 6: UBSC Graz - Gmunden


U20 European Championship: Austria wins Group G although falls to F.Y.R. of Macedonia - by Eurobasket News

Austria U20- F.Y.R. of Macedonia U20 77:85 OT

Austria wins Group G although falls to F.Y.R. of Macedonia at the Classification Round for 9th to 18th Place in Division B of the U20 European Championship. F.Y.R. of Macedonia won over the group leader 85:77 for 2-2 record to finish fourth. Austria meanwhile is on top with 3-1 record.
F.Y.R. of Macedonia won the opening tip 21-17 and added 18-17 in the second frame. Austria needed a 18-14 in the third period and finished the fourth quarter with 19-18 as Daniel Friedrich (182-PG-92) tied the game at 71:71. F.Y.R. of Macedonia produced a 14-6 surge in overtime to seal the victory.
Goran Markovski (195-G/F-92) paced all the winners with 31 points and 17 rebounds, while Boban Stajic (185-PG-93) posted 18. Ivanovikj delivered 15 and Filip Dinevski (197-SG-93) ended up with 7 points. Maximilian Hopfgartner (206-PF-92) erupted with 26 points and 13 rebounds in defeat and Filip Kramer (200-SF-92) had massive 19 points and 19 caroms. Daniel Friedrich notched 12, whilst Albert Ngoy (180-PG-93) chipped in with 9.

Austria U20: Maximilian Hopfgartner 26+13 rebs, Filip Kramer 19+19 rebs, Daniel Friedrich 12, Albert Ngoy 9
F.Y.R. of Macedonia U20: Goran Markovski 31+17 rebs, Boban Stajic 18, Ivanovikj 15, Filip Dinevski 7


U16 European Championship: Hungary improves to 2-0 record - by Eurobasket News

Hungary U16-Austria U16 88:57

Hungary improves to 2-0 record at the U16 European Championship Division B in Romania. The team overcame Austria 88:57 in Bucharest. The Austria side meanwhile fell at 0-2 record.
Hungary started the game with 26:16 and never looked behind after. They added massive 26-5 in the second frame as Kovacs closed the half at 51:42. Moreover Hungary won the third quarter 21-14 and had a comfortable lead after three quarters. Austria managed to win the last stanza 21-16 and reduce to 31 points. Vogel and Ungi scored the last points for each side before the final buzzer.
Csanad Antoni (193-SF-96) paced all the winners with 20 points, while Gyorgy Goloman (204-F/C-96) nailed 16. Patrik Hodi (197-PF-96) poured in 10 points and Szabolcs Pungor (194-SF-96) delivered 9. Marvin Ogunsipe (193-F-96) ended up with 9 points in the losing effort and Gabriel Lehner (190-SF-96) scored 8.

Hungary U16: Csanad Antoni 20, Gyorgy Goloman 16, Patrik Hodi 10, Szabolcs Pungor 9
Austria U16: Marvin Ogunsipe 9, Gabriel Lehner 8


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  BALTIC LEAGUE   


Ventspils adds PG Donald Sims - by Eurobasket News

Donald Sims (185-PG-87, college: Appalachian St.) will continue his career in Latvia. The American point guard signed a deal with Ventspils for the next season. He arrives to the club from Venezuelan Gaiteros de Zulia. Sims joined them in January averaging 24.1 points, 3.5 assists, 2.8 rebounds and 2.5 steals for 36 games. He was top scorer of the LPB and was named to Latinbasket.com All-Venezuelan LPB 1st Team -12. Sims also played at the LPB All-Star Game. Before Gaiteros, Donald Sims played for the NBA D-League team Reno Bighorns. There he had 6.9 ppg, 2.9 apg and 1.1 rpg for 8 games. It was his first pro deal. Sims graduated at the Appalachian State University something more than a year ago. The player had 21 ppg, 3.7 rpg and 3.6 apg as a senior.


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  BELGIUM   


U16 European Championship: Belgium spoil Bulgaria's start - by Eurobasket News

Bulgaria U16-Belgium U16 43:75

Belgium spoil Bulgaria's start at the U16 European Championship in Division B. The Belgium side celebrated their first 75:43 win in Group B in Day 2 in Bucharest.
Belgium scored the first 4 points in the game and took control in the start of it. They reached 21:9 at the end of the frame and added 19-12 in the second period. Rochdi Benzouien (180-PG-96) closed the half with a jump shot at 40:21, while Ordane Kanda-Kanyinda (96) scored for 42:23 early in the third. Belgium added 25-14 in the third period and won also the last stanza 10-8. Chapelle and Rosen Ivanov scored the last points for each team that showed the final result on the board.
Ordane Kanda-Kanyinda stepped up with 28 points and Rochdi Benzouien notched 12. Sami Demirtas (189-G-96) and Romain Boxus (194-F-96) delivered 8 points each in a win. Alex Ouandie (193-G-96) ended up with 9 points in the losing effort, while Rumen Vasilev (200-C-96) delivered 8.

Bulgaria U16: Alex Ouandie 9, Rumen Vasilev 8
Belgium U16: Ordane Kanda-Kanyinda 28, Rochdi Benzouien 12, Sami Demirtas 8, Romain Boxus 8


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  BOSNIA   


U16 European Championship: Bosnia and Herzegovina overcame Georgia in Bucharest - by Eurobasket News

Georgia U16- Bosnia and Herzegovina U16 52:82

Bosnia and Herzegovina overcame Georgia in Bucharest at the U16 European Championship in Division B. The winning side produced a 82:52 win as both teams are tied with 1-1 record in Group C.
Bosnia and Herzegovina won the opening tip 5:1 and Smajlovic scored for 12:7. Sandro Gacic (196-SG-96) closed a 6-0 run for 18:7, while Gogaladze delivered two for 20:13. The second quarter was a nightmare for Georgia and brought 30-11 surge for Bosnia. djorde Beronja (199-C-96) scored the last four points for the winners to send the teams to the lockers at 50:24. Moreover Bosnia and Herzegovina produced the same quarters in the second half winning them 16-14. Bevanda increased the win to 30 points as the teams finished the game in Romania.
Amar Balic (178-PG-96) and Sandro Gacic chipped in with 15 points each, while djorde Beronja poured in 12. Willy Isiani (195-PF-97) ended up with 14 points in the losing effort. Giorgi Gugeshashvili (197-F-96), Soso Matchavariani (196-SF-96), Davit Lomidze (187-SG-97) and Temur Petriashvili (180-SG-96) followed him with 6 points apiece.

Georgia U16: Willy Isiani 14, Giorgi Gugeshashvili 6, Soso Matchavariani 6, Davit Lomidze 6, Temur Petriashvili 6
Bosnia and Herzegovina U16: Amar Balic 15, Sandro Gacic 15, djorde Beronja 12


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  BULGARIA   


Referees from the Balkans and Israel to officiate European Basketball Tour 2012 - by Maria Mitzova

Referees from Bosnia, Greece, Israel, Montenegro, Serbia and host nation Bulgaria will officiate the games from European Basketball Tour 2012 in Sofia. The games will take place in Armeec Arena from July 24-26, with the participation of Men's National teams of Bulgaria, Turkey, Poland and Ukraine.
The following referees were invited to the Tour:

Referees:
1. Ademir Zurapovic (Tuzla, BIH)
2. Miroslav Tomov (Veliko Tarnovo, BUL)
3. Georgios Tanatzis (Katerini, GRE)
4. Gili Cohen (Rishon Lezyon, ISR)
5. Zdravko Rutesic (Niksic, MNE)
6. Aleksandar Glisic (Belgrade, SRB)

Commissioners for the games will be Bulgarians Anguel Ivanov, Kamen Toshev, Stefko Stanev and the Chairman of the Balkan League Shay Shtriks.


U16 European Championship: Belgium spoil Bulgaria's start - by Eurobasket News

Bulgaria U16-Belgium U16 43:75

Belgium spoil Bulgaria's start at the U16 European Championship in Division B. The Belgium side celebrated their first 75:43 win in Group B in Day 2 in Bucharest.
Belgium scored the first 4 points in the game and took control in the start of it. They reached 21:9 at the end of the frame and added 19-12 in the second period. Rochdi Benzouien (180-PG-96) closed the half with a jump shot at 40:21, while Ordane Kanda-Kanyinda (96) scored for 42:23 early in the third. Belgium added 25-14 in the third period and won also the last stanza 10-8. Chapelle and Rosen Ivanov scored the last points for each team that showed the final result on the board.
Ordane Kanda-Kanyinda stepped up with 28 points and Rochdi Benzouien notched 12. Sami Demirtas (189-G-96) and Romain Boxus (194-F-96) delivered 8 points each in a win. Alex Ouandie (193-G-96) ended up with 9 points in the losing effort, while Rumen Vasilev (200-C-96) delivered 8.

Bulgaria U16: Alex Ouandie 9, Rumen Vasilev 8
Belgium U16: Ordane Kanda-Kanyinda 28, Rochdi Benzouien 12, Sami Demirtas 8, Romain Boxus 8


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  CHINA   


NBL: Guangzhou FM ties the Finals - by Eurobasket News

Guangzhou FM - Guangzhou L. 75-66 (1-1)

Guangzhou FM ties the Finals at 1-1. The hosts trailed by 3 points at the halftime before their 39-27 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Guangzhou FM outrebounded Guangzhou L. 59-46 including 45 on the defensive glass. American forward Walter Sharpe (206-86, college: UAB, agency: Two Points) had a double-double by scoring 16 points and 26 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and guard KaiFu Yao (196-83) chipped in 17 points and 11 rebounds during the contest. Four Guangzhou FM players scored in double figures. Forward Jing Wang (197-78) responded with 12 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists and American center Brandon Crump (208-82, college: Tennessee) scored 6 points and 15 rebounds.
Top scorers:
Guangzhou FM: L.DaPeng 20+4reb, Y.KaiFu 17+11reb+3ast, S.Walter 16+26reb+1ast, Y.Peng 10+6reb+3ast, W.SongWei 6+4reb+3ast, D.JunJiang 4+6reb+1ast
Guangzhou L.: J.Lei 13+3reb+1ast, W.Jing 12+6reb+5ast, T.Chao 9+3reb+2ast, C.DaWei 8+5reb, L.XiangTao 8+6reb+1ast, L.Yao 7+6reb+3ast
gschID: 179088



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  CROATIA   


Darda inks PG Igor Salamun - by Eurobasket News

Igor Salamun (186-G-85) is a new member of Darda. The player signed a deal for the next season. Earlier this summer, Darda extended deals with coach Senad Muminovic and team captain Dejan Meznaric (205-F/C-87). Both of them penned 5-year contract extensions.
Igor Salamun arrives to Darda from Jolly Jadranska Banka Sibenik, where he finished last season. He had 2.7 ppg, 1.5 rpg and 1.5 apg for them in 15 games. Salamun started the season with Kvarner averaging 10.6 points 3.1 rebounds and 2.7 assists for 9 appearances. The point guard split 2010/11 season between Sibenik and DOSK Drnis. A year before that he played for the Slovakian squad MBK Rieker Komarno. There he had 6.6 ppg, 2.6 rpg and 2 apg for 37 games. In the past, Salamun was a member of Kostrena, Kvarner and Rijeka.


U16 European Championship: Akif Guven leads Turkey past Croatia - by Eurobasket News

Turkey U16 - Croatia U16 98:95 (OT)

Turkey clinched the second win at the U16 European Championship. They outscored Croatia in overtime thriller for 2-0 record in Group A. Akif Guven (206-C-96) came up with 24 points to lead the winners.
Croatia exploded with 26 points in the first quarter to jump ahead. They built an 11-point lead at the first intermission. Turkey responded with an excellent offence in the second quarter. They knocked down 30 points to take a 45:44 halftime lead. Croatia regained the lead in the third period. They secured a one-point lead before the fourth quarter. Croatia led by five points 78:73 with five minutes remaining. But Turkey denied the deficit and pulled in front for an 87:84 lead with 36 seconds left in regulation. However Dominovic drained a late triple to send the game into overtime. Serbia surged ahead in the extra period but Afik Guven converted a layup and then Kadir Bayram (189-PG-96) hit two free throws to seal the win for Turkey. Kadir Bayram finished with 18 points, while Oktay Ulubay (189-SG-97) contributed 13 points for the winners. Marko Arapovic (207-C/F-96) answered with 32 points and 13 boards for Croatia. Leon Tomic (195-F-96) had 23 points in the losing case.

Turkey U16: Akif Guven 24, Kadir Bayram 18, Oktay Ulubay 13
Croatia U16: Marko Arapovic 32+13 boards, Leon Tomic 23


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  CZECH REPUBLIC   


BK Plzen Withdraws from Mattoni NBL, 12 Teams Left for 2012-13 Season - by Surujh Roopnarine

The 2012-13 Mattoni NBL season seems likely to have just 12 teams as BK Loko Interconex Plzen announced that they will not play in the top league this season. After being relegated to the 1.Liga via loss in the play-out phase last season, BK Loko Interconex Plzen was extended an offer to remain in the NBL in June, but have now informed league officials that due to a lack of sponsorship revenue, the club will not be able to play in the NBL in 2012-13. This comes on the heals of Slovakian club BK Inter Bratislava also removing itself from next season and the NBL not being able to find a suitable alternative among other top Slovakian clubs in the Extraliga. BK BK Loko Interconex Plzen manager Pavel Fronek gave an interview to local media stating that after the club failed to qualify for the NBL via play-out competition, they were not able to secure a sponsor who could ensure a sufficient enough budget for the club to realistically compete this upcoming season.
In 2011-12, BK Loko Interconex Plzen finished 10-30 on the season, second to last in the standings only above Opava, who finished 9-31. The club will continue to operate however and will play in the 1.Liga, the country's second highest league.


BK Pardubice Strengthens Roster with Signings of Evaldas Zabas and Travis Nelson - by Surujh Roopnarine

An injection of youth and talent is arriving in Pardubice as the club has agreed on one-year deals with Lithuanian guard Evaldas Zabas (188-PG-88) and American center Travis Nelson (211-C-87college: Minnesota St.). Zabas, 24 years old, joins Pardubice after completing a very impressive season in Sweden with KFUM Jamtland Basket. The 6-2 former Lithuanian National Team U20 member appeared in 36 games and led the Swedish Basketligan in scoring at 21.9ppg while posting 4.1 rebounds, 4.6 assists and 1.5 steals. A dynamic scorer, Zabas also is able to orchestrate the offense and help his teammates get in optimal positions with the basketball. His career has seen him play in Germany, England and Sweden.
Travis Nelson, 25, is a 6-11 center who finished his collegiate career at NCAA2 Minnesota State Mankato after transferring from the University of Wyoming. Entering his third professional season, Nelson spent last season in Slovenia with KK Sentjur before finishing in Dubai with Al Wasl.
In Slovenia he appeared in 26 games, averaging a league-leading 17.5 points, 6.8 rebounds, 1.2 assists and 1.3 blocks while shooting 60.5% from the field. Nelson played in the British BBL in 2010-11, his first pro season, at the same time that Zabas was in the BBL as well.


U16 European Championship: Greece thump Czech Republic - by Eurobasket News

Greece U16 - Czech Republic U16 86:61

Greece improved at 2-0 record in Group D of U16 European Championship. They held off Czech Republic to stay undefeated. Dimitrios Stamatis (192-G-96) accounted for 23 points to pace the Hellenes.
Greece fired 27 points in the opening quarter. They recorded a 13-point lead at the first intermission. Czech Republic bounced back in the second term. They narrowed the gap at just 4-point mark at halftime 35:39. The Hellenes cleared off in the third quarter. They established a 15-point lead at the final intermission. Georgios Papagiannis (210-C-97) gave Greece a 20-point lead early in the final period. Vasileios Charalampopoulos (199-F-97) delivered 13 points, while Thomas Kottas (204-C-96), Georgios Papagiannis and Konstantinos Zorzos (188-PG-96) had 8 points each in the win. Matej Svoboda (200-PF-96) answered with 22 points for Czech Republic. Marek Mares (185-G-96) nailed 13 points in the losing case.

Greece U16: Dimitrios Stamatis 23, Vasileios Charalampopoulos 13, Thomas Kottas 8, Georgios Papagiannis 8, Konstantinos Zorzos 8
Czech Republic U16: Matej Svoboda 22, Marek Mares 13


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  DENMARK   


U16 European Championship: Slovak Republic beat Denmark to tie both records - by Eurobasket News

Denmark U16-Slovak Republic U16 61:64

Slovak Republic beat Denmark to tie both records at the U16 European Championship in Division B. Jozef Senohradsky (190-G-96) was perfect from the free throw line at the end of the game for 64:61 win. Both teams are with 1-1 record in Group B.
Slovak Republic took 18:14 lead after the first period and added defensive 10-8 in the second quarter. Benzon and Norbert Janicek (206-C-96) exchanged the baskets early in the third quarter as the board showed 30:24 for Slovakia. Adam Oremus (205-C-96) increased the lead to 10 points, while Gadeberg reduced to just 1 point at the end of the third period. Jakob Ravn (193-G-96) gave Denmark an expecting 58:57 win, but Jozef Senohradsky was perfect from the free throw line to give his team 64:61 victory.
Jozef Senohradsky top-scored for the winners with 16 points, while Norbert Janicek collected 14 points and 11 rebounds. Jakub Meress (200-PF-96) and Adam Oremus followed them with 8 points each in a win. Nicolai Andersen (201-C-96) replied with 13 points for Denmark, while Jakob Ravn and Alexander Von Spreckelsen (198-F-96) posted 10 poinst apiece.

Denmark U16: Nicolai Andersen 13, Jakob Ravn 10, Alexander Von Spreckelsen 10
Slovak Republic U16: Jozef Senohradsky 16, Norbert Janicek 14+11 rebs, Jakub Meress 8, Adam Oremus 8


U20 European Championship: Denmark keep Hungary winless - by Eurobasket News

Hungary U20-Denmark U20 55:77

Denmark keep Hungary winless in Group H of the U20 European Championship in Division B. The Danish side meanwhile improved to 3-1 record after 77:55 victory. Hungary finished on the bottom of the group with 0-4 record.
Denmark was the favorite of the game and started with 20:14 lead. Hungary did not give and Somenek tied the game at 30:30 midway through the second period. Bodor even gave the lead for Hungary, but Philip Hertz (210-C/F-92) brought 34:32 from the free throw line. The third quarter belonged to the winning team that needed a 24-12 surge to win the game. They added 19-10 in the last stanza to seal the win.
Philip Hertz top-scored for the winners with 23 points and Soren Dossing (185-G-92) netted 18. Dennis Levene (201-F-92) and Sami Eleraky (210-C-93) followed them with 11 points each. Peter Jakab (187-G-93) delivered 20 points in defeat and Krisztian Tursics (185-G-92) scored 8.

Hungary U20: Peter Jakab 20, Krisztian Tursics 8
Denmark U20: Philip Hertz 23, Soren Dossing 18, Dennis Levene 11, Sami Eleraky 11


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  DR CONGO   


Vevey Riviera Basket returns Coco Kashama - by Eurobasket News

Coco Kashama (196-F-81) is back to Vevey Riviera Basket after one year. The Swiss/DR Congolese forward signed a deal for the next season. He missed the last one and played for Vevey Riviera Basket in 2010/11. He appeared 17 times in LNB averaging 9.2 points, 7 rebounds and 2.2 steals. Kashama helped the club to reach LNB Semifinals. From 2008 to 2010, he played for BBC Monthey and before that Kashama spent three years with Vevey Riviera. They were LNB champions in 2006 and next two seasons competed in LNA together. In 2005, Coco Kashama reached Swiss Cup Semifinals with Lusanne Morges. In the past, he spent few more years Riviera Basket and they were Swiss Cup winners in 2001. Kashama was 20-year-old player at that time.


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  ESTONIA   


U20 European Championship: Georgia celebrate first win in Slovenia - by Eurobasket News

Georgia U20 - Estonia U20 75:72

Georgia accounted for the first win at the U20 European Championship. They held off Estonia in the fourth round of action in classification round Group G. Beka Burjanadze (203-F-94) scored 22 points and grabbed 12 rebounds as Georgia improved at 1-3 record in the ladder. Estonia in the meantime fell at 2-2.
The teams stayed close throughout the opening quarter. The scoreboard read 17:17 at the first break. Estonia pulled in front in the second quarter. They accumulated a 36:33 halftime lead. Estonia gained a 6-point lead midway through the third quarter but Georgia managed to narrow the deficit at 2-point mark 53:55. Beka Burjanadze scored 7 points early in the fourth period as Georgia pulled ahead 60:56. Estonia drew things level at 69 with under two minutes remaining. But Beka Burjanadze and Duda Sanadze (196-G/F-92) dropped six free throws in the dying seconds to seal the victory for Georgia. Revaz Rogava (185-PG-93) notched 15 points, while Duda Sanadze added 11 points for the winners. Rannar Raap (190-G/F-92) answered with 15 points for Estonia. Oliver Metsalu (196-G-93) had 14 points in the loss.

Georgia U20: Beka Burjanadze 22+12 boards, Revaz Rogava 15, Duda Sanadze 11
Estonia U20: Rannar Raap 15, Oliver Metsalu 14


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  EUROCUP   


Azovmash adds forward Dragicevic - by Diamadis Farmakis

Azovmash Mariupol, keeps very busy in the summer transfer market. The Ukrainians announced yesterday the signing of Eurocup veteran forward Tadija Dragicevic (206-F/C-86, agency: Beo Basket), who will mark his seventh season in the competition this season.

Last season was his first since 2006 that Dragicevic (2.05 meters, 26 years old) did not play in the Eurocup. Instead he averaged 10.6 points and 6.4 rebounds for Angelico Biella in the Italian League and as for his career, Dragicevic has averaged 11.8 points over 53 Eurocup games for Crvena Zvezda and Alba Berlin, while his 628 points scored rank 24th in competition history. He is tied for 13th all-time with 90 career three-pointers made.

Dragicevic is a project of the Crvena Zvezda youth system. He debuted with the senior as an 18-year old and after a season on loan with Mega Ishrana Belgrade, came back to Crvena Zvezda with an important role. By the 2007-08 season, Dragicevic led the team in scoring with 18.4 points per game in 14 Eurocup appearances.


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  EUROLEAGUE   


Zalgiris Kaunas bring in Darjus Lavrinovic and Tremmel Darden - by Eurobasket News

Zalgiris Kaunas bring in Darjus Lavrinovic (212-C-79) and Tremmell Darden (194-G/F-81, college: Niagara) for the upcoming season. The Lithuanian champions added two loud names to their roster.
Darjus Lavrinovic comes from CSKA. Last year the Lithuanian player averaged 7.8ppg, 3.7rpg, FGP: 60.9%, 3PT: 47.8%, FT: 80.9% in Russian League and in Euroleague showed 4.7ppg, 2.7rpg. In VTB League his stats read 8.6ppg, 3.7rpg, FGP-3 (67.6%), 3PT: 38.7%, FT: 81.1%.
Earlier Darjus Lavrinovic played for Fenerbahce Ulker. His stats read 8.0 points, 4.4 boards and 1.3 assists per game in Euroleague. In PBL the centre tallied 9.5 points, 5.5 boards and 1.3 assists per appearance. Eurobasket.com named Darjus Lavrinovic All-Turkish League Defensive Player of the Year. It is not the first stint in Russia for the Lithuanian player. He played for Dynamo Moscow and Unics Kazan. Darjus Lavrinovic was on Lithuanian National Team roster since 2005.
Tremmell Darden arrives from Unicaja Malaga (Spain-ACB, starting five). Last season in 21 games the American player averaged 8.0ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 45.9%, 3PT: 42.9%, FT: 72.7%. In Euroleague his stats read 8.0ppg, 3.4rpg, FGP: 45.5%, 3PT: 30.8%, FT: 78.3%.


Besiktas returns Muratcan Guler, according to report - by Eurobasket News

Muratcan Guler (192-G-80, agency: 1x1 Sports) is back to Besiktas after two years, according to Salsabasket.net. The Turkish guard played for the reigning TBL champions from 2008 to 2010 and also from 1999 to 2001. Last season he spent with Turk Telekom Ankara averaging 7.8 points, 4.7 rebounds and 3.3 assists for 29 games in domestic championship. In EuroChallenge, Guler had 6.8 ppg, 4.8 apg and 4.7 rpg for 6 games. In 2010/11, Muratcan Guler played for Antalya registering 11.5 ppg, 7.6 rpg and 3.5 apg for 32 games. He participated at TBL All-Star Game. Guler also played at the All-Star Game in 2007 and 2010. He won the Turkish Cup with Turke Telekom in 2008. Two years before that Guler was named Eurobasket.com All-Turkish League Defensive Player of the Year. He was a member of Karsiyaka from 2004 to 2006 and before that Guler spent two years with Ulker and one with Galatasaray. He started pro career with ITU Istanbul.


Unicaja offers deal to Txemi Urtasun, Cajasol has 10 days to match - by Eurobasket News

Unicaja officially offered deal to Txemi Urtasun (193-G-84, agency: Interperformances) and Cajasol has 10 days to match it, if they want to keep the player. The deadline is July 20. Urtasun played last two seasons for Cajasol. He appeared 36 times in Liga Endesa 2011/12 averaging 10.6 points, 2.3 rebounds and 2 assists. He helped Cajasol to reach the Semifinals of Copa del Rey this year and also to reach the Playoff Semifinals. In their first season together Urtasun was close to reach the Euroleague with Cajasol. They played in the EuroCup Finals, but were able to win it. Urtasun collected 11.1 ppg in this competition and he also had 9.9 ppg in ACB. Txemi Urtasun played for Alicante from 2008 to 2010 winning the LEB Gold Playoffs with them in their first year together. Before Alicante, he spit 2007/08 season between Estudiantes and Leon. Urtasun also has experience from Bruesa, Breogan, Zaragoza and La Palma.


Caja Laboral inks 2-year deal with PG Taylor Rochestie - by Eurobasket News

Taylor Rochestie (185-PG-85, college: Washington St.) will continue his career in Spain. The American PG, who got Montenegrin passport earlier this summer, penned a deal with Caja Laboral. He spent last season with Le Mans and was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-French ProA Bosman Player of the Year -12. The player was also named to Eurobasket.com All-French ProA 2nd Team -12. For 37 games in the league Rochestie registered 16.3 ppg, 64 apg and 3.4 rpg. In EuroCup, the player averaged 12.5 points, 4.4 assists and 3.6 rebounds for 8 games.
Taylor Rochestie is a product of the Washington State University, where he graduated in 2009. He had 13.2 ppg, 4.5 apg and 3.6 rpg for his school in 33 games as a senior. He first year as a pro Rochestie spent with the German squad MEG Goettingen. There he shined with 15.1 ppg, 3.2 apg and 2.8 rpg fro 38 games in 1.Bundesliga. He was third scorer of the competition. The player also was great in EuroChallenge collecting 14.7 ppg, 2.9 rpg and 2.7 apg. Season 2010/11, Taylor Rochestie split between Galatsaray and ALBA Berlin.


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

M-Standings - Group A

Standings
Group A
1. Italy2-0
2. Turkey2-0
3. Croatia0-2
4. U.Kingdom0-2
Group B
1. Spain2-0
2. Ukraine2-0
3. Latvia0-2
4. Russia0-2
Group C
1. Germany2-0
2. Lithuania1-1
3. Serbia1-1
4. Slovenia0-2
Group D
1. France2-0
2. Greece2-0
3. Poland0-2
4. Czech Rep.0-2

Preliminary Round: Round 2

A

Jul. 20: CRO - TUR 95-98 OT
Jul. 20: ENG - ITA 47-65

B

Jul. 20: ESP - RUS 88-64
Jul. 20: UKR - LAT 73-58

C

Jul. 20: SRB - LTU 70-64
Jul. 20: SLO - GER 50-69

D

Jul. 20: GRE - CZE 86-61
Jul. 20: FRA - POL 65-45

Preliminary Round: Round 3

A

Jul. 21: TUR - ITA
Jul. 21: CRO - ENG

B

Jul. 21: ESP - UKR
Jul. 21: RUS - LAT

C

Jul. 21: SRB - SLO
Jul. 21: LTU - GER

D

Jul. 21: POL - CZE
Jul. 21: FRA - GRE


M-Standings - Group B

Standings Div.B
Group A
1. Sweden2-0
2. Belarus1-0
3. Finland1-1
4. Israel0-1
5. Luxembourg.0-2
Group B
1. FYR Macedo.1-0
2. Slovakia1-1
3. Belgium1-1
4. Denmark1-1
5. Bulgaria0-1
Group C
1. Estonia1-0
2. Montenegro.1-0
3. Georgia1-1
4. Bosnia1-1
5. Romania0-2
Group D
1. Hungary2-0
2. Portugal2-0
3. Switzerlan.2-0
4. Holland0-2
5. Norway0-2
6. Austria0-2

Preliminary Round: Round 2

A

Jul. 20: FIN - LUX 89-82
Jul. 20: ISR - SWE 52-65

B

Jul. 20: DEN - SVK 61-64
Jul. 20: BUL - BEL 43-75

C

Jul. 20: MNT - ROM 66-53
Jul. 20: GEO - BIH 52-82

D

Jul. 20: HUN - AUT 88-57
Jul. 20: SUI - NED 66-55
Jul. 20: POR - NOR 52-33

Preliminary Round: Round 3

A

Jul. 21: BLR - FIN
Jul. 21: LUX - ISR

B

Jul. 21: SVK - BUL
Jul. 21: MKD - DEN

C

Jul. 21: EST - GEO
Jul. 21: BIH - MNT

D

Jul. 21: NED - AUT
Jul. 21: POR - HUN
Jul. 21: NOR - SUI


Results and Stats from Day 2 in Latvia and Lithuania - by Eurobasket News

Group A
Croatia - Turkey 95-98 OT
Turkey clinched the second win at the U16 European Championship. They outscored Croatia in overtime thriller for 2-0 record in Group A. Akif Guven (206-C-96) came up with 24 points to lead the winners. Croatia exploded with 26 points in the first quarter to jump ahead. They built an 11-point lead at the first intermission. Turkey responded with an excellent offence in the second quarter. They knocked down 30 points to take a 45:44 halftime lead. Croatia regained the lead in the third period. They secured a one-point lead before the fourth quarter. Croatia led by five points 78:73 with five minutes remaining. But Turkey denied the deficit and pulled in front for an 87:84 lead with 36 seconds left in regulation. However Dominovic drained a late triple to send the game into overtime. Serbia surged ahead in the extra period but Afik Guven converted a layup and then Kadir Bayram (189-PG-96) hit two free throws to seal the win for Turkey. Kadir Bayram finished with 18 points, while Oktay Ulubay contributed 13 points for the winners. Marko Arapovic (207-C/F-96) answered with 32 points and 13 boards for Croatia. Leon Tomic had 23 points in the losing case.

United Kingdom - Italy 47-65
Italy registered the second straight win at U16 European Championship preliminary round. They knocked down England in Group A in Ventspils. Daniel Donzelli (199-SG-96) came up with 15 points, 11 rebounds and 5 steals to lead the Azzurri. England fell at 0-2 record after the loss. Italy did not waste too much time as they surged in front in the opening quarter. The Azzurri piled up a 21:11 lead after ten minutes. The margin grew in the second frame. Italy ensured a 38:25 halftime lead. Italy stayed in control throughout the third term. They piled up a 17-point advantage at the final break. Italy outscored England in the fourth quarter posting a well-deserved win at the end. Diego Flaccadori (184-PG-96) had 12 points, while Federico Mussini and Riccardo Rossato accounted for 11 points each in the victory. Jules Akodo (G-96) replied with 17 points and 8 rebounds for England. Justas Muzikevicius had 9 points in the loss.

Group B
Spain - Russia 88-64
Spain earned the second consecutive win at the start of U16 European Championship. They outmuscled Russia for 2-0 record in Group B. Marc Garcia (194-F-96) accounted for 25 points to lead the winning side. Russia enjoyed a 22:20 lead at the first break. Spain turned things around in the second frame. They fired 24 points to take an 8-point lead at halftime 44:36. Spain exploded with 26 points in the third quarter to boost the lead. They secured a 17-point buffer at the final intermission. Spain held Russia to just 11 points in the fourth frame and cruised to the victory at the end. David Martinez (203-F-96) had 10 points, while Sergi Garcia and Arnau Triguiner chipped in 9 points each for Spain. Aleksandr Zuev (193-PG-96) answered with 15 points for Russia. Mikhail Maleyko finished with 13 points in the loss.

Ukraine - Latvia 73-58
Ukraine coasted to the second win at the U16 European Championship. They overcame Latvia to stay undefeated at 2-0 record in Group B. Latvia slipped at 0-2 record after the loss. Ukraine jumped to an early lead. They posted a 19:12 lead at the first break. Latvia narrowed the margin in the second frame. They got within 4 points at the interval 36:32. Latvia stayed aggressive in the third period. They trimmed the deficit at the third period to trail by three points 44:47. Ukraine however took over in the final frame. They fired 26 points to silence their opponents. Oleksandr Kobets (192-SF-96) nailed 24 points to lead the charge. Vadym Golyk and Yevgen Balaban had 11 points each in the victory. Ervins Meznieks (184-F-96) answered with 17 points for Latvia. Rihards Lomazs netted 10 points in the loss.

Group C
Serbia - Lithuania 70-64
Serbia recorded the initial win at the U16 European Championship. They prevailed against Lithuania to improve at 1-1 record in Group C. Jovan Starincevic (188-PG-96) came up with 28 points for the winners. Lithuania looked better at the start of the game. The Baltic side built a 19:12 lead ten minutes into the game. Serbia however denied the deficit in the second term. The Balkan team tied things up at 34 after twenty minutes. Serbia finally pulled ahead in the third term. They held Lithuania to 14 points to take a 7-point lead into the fourth quarter. Domantas Sabonis put Lithuania within two midway through the period but Serbia stayed calm and executed a confident win at the end. Nikola Pavlovic (195-F/G-93) accounted for 12 points, while Vasilije Vucetic added 10 points in the victory. Deividas Zemgulis (194-PF-96) notched 11 points for Lithuania. Domantas Sabonis had 9 points and 13 rebounds in the loss.

Slovenia - Germany 50-69
Germany posted the second consecutive win at the start of U16 European Championship in Lithuania/Latvia. They knocked down Slovenian counterparts to improve at 2-0 record on top of Group C. Jan Wimberg (202-G-96) stepped up with 18 points and 11 rebounds to pace the winners. Slovenia fell at 0-2 record after the loss. Germany strongly entered the encounter. They built a 24:14 lead ten minutes into the game. Germany boosted the gap in the second quarter. They piled up a 42:23 halftime lead. Slovenia tried to change the complexion of the game in the third quarter. They held German team to 11 points to narrow the margin to 14 points with one period remaining. But Germany responded adequately in the final frame to seal the comfortable win at the end. Sebastian Schmitt (180-PG-96), Constantin Ebert and Mahir Agva finished with 8 points each for Germany. Grega Sajevic (183-SG-96) answered with 16 points for Slovenia. Sandi Grubelic netted 10 points in the loss.

Group D
Greece - Czech Republic 86-61
Greece improved at 2-0 record in Group D of U16 European Championship. They held off Czech Republic to stay undefeated. Dimitrios Stamatis (192-G-96) accounted for 23 points to pace the Hellenes. Greece fired 27 points in the opening quarter. They recorded a 13-point lead at the first intermission. Czech Republic bounced back in the second term. They narrowed the gap at just 4-point mark at halftime 35:39. The Hellenes cleared off in the third quarter. They established a 15-point lead at the final intermission. Georgios Papagiannis gave Greece a 20-point lead early in the final period. Vasileios Charalampopoulos (199-F-97) delivered 13 points, while Thomas Kottas, Georgios Papagiannis and Konstantinos Zorzos had 8 points each in the win. Matej Svoboda (200-PF-96) answered with 22 points for Czech Republic. Marek Mares nailed 13 points in the losing case.

France - Poland 65-45
France recorded the second straight win at the U16 European Championship. They held off Poland in Group D action. Antoine Wallez (202-PF-96) knocked down 18 points to lead the winners. Poland led 14:5 midway through the opening frame. But France responded with a 21:0 run to grab a 26:14 lead midway through the second stanza. They established a 33:23 halftime lead. France maintained the advantage throughout the third quarter. Les Bleus posted a 50:38 lead at the final break. The margin grew at 20-point mark and France cruised to the victory at the end. Etienne Ory (175-PG-96) netted 12 points, while Lenny Charles-Catherine added 8 points for the winning side. Filip Pruefer (208-C-96) answered with 12 points for Poland. Igor Wadowski had 9 points in the loss.


Division B: Results and Stats from Day 2 in Bucharest - by Eurobasket News

Group A
Finland - Luxembourg 89-82
Finland posts the initial win at the U16 European Championship in Division B. The Finnish side grabbed 89:82 victory over Luxembourg and improved to 1-1 record. Luxembourg meanwhile fell at 0-2 record in Group A. Timothy Kauffmann (191-F-96) scored half of the points for Luxembourg but it was not enough for the win. His team trailed 17:23 after the first period and had 33:45 at the halftime. Finland looked better in the game and added another 24-22 in the third quarter. Timothy Kauffmann scored four three-pointers in a row to reduce to 79:77. Niemisto however was perfect from the free throw line and brought the necessary win for the Finnish side. Elias Eerikinharju (185-G-96) top-scored for the winners with 18 points for the first victory. Niemisto notched 15, while Nieminen added 12. Timothy Kauffmann erupted with 41 points in the losing effort, while Vujakovic had 19 points and 16 rebounds.

Israel - Sweden 52-65
Sweden jumps on top of Group A at the U16 European Championship in Division B. The Scandinavian team overcame Israel 65:52 in the first game of Day 2. Israel meanwhile just started the campaign and fell at 0-1 record. Israel started the game with 11-8 lead and scored also 11 points in the second frame. It was not however enough to win the quarter as Sweden replied with 15 points for 23:22 advantage. Sweden added 23-10 in the third quarter and grabbed 46:32 after three quarters. Israel won the last stanza 20-19 but reduced to 13 points at the end. Ludvig Hakanson (190-PG-96) was unstoppable with 29 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists, while Drammeh added 10. Johansson and William Skagius (200-PF-96) ended up with 8 points each, while the latter also added 10 rebounds. Netanel Artzi (196-F-97) finished the game with 13 points in defeat. Huber notched 11, whilst Blatt delivered 8.

Group B
Denmark - Slovakia 61-64
Slovak Republic beat Denmark to tie both records at the U16 European Championship in Division B. Jozef Senohradsky (190-G-96) was perfect from the free throw line at the end of the game for 64:61 win. Both teams are with 1-1 record in Group B. Slovak Republic took 18:14 lead after the first period and added defensive 10-8 in the second quarter. Benzon and Janicek exchanged the baskets early in the third quarter as the board showed 30:24 for Slovakia. Oremus increased the lead to 10 points, while Gadeberg reduced to just 1 point at the end of the third period. Jakob Ravn (193-G-96) gave Denmark an expecting 58:57 win, but Jozef Senohradsky was perfect from the free throw line to give his team 64:61 victory. Jozef Senohradsky top-scored for the winners with 16 points, while Janicek collected 14 points and 11 rebounds. Jakub Meress (200-PF-96) and Oremus followed them with 8 points each in a win. Nicolai Andersen (201-C-96) replied with 13 points for Denmark, while Jakob Ravn and Alexander von Spreckelsen posted 10 poinst apiece.

Bulgaria - Belgium 43-75
Belgium spoil Bulgaria's start at the U16 European Championship in Division B. The Belgium side celebrated their first 75:43 win in Group B in Day 2 in Bucharest. Belgium scored the first 4 points in the game and took control in the start of it. They reached 21:9 at the end of the frame and added 19-12 in the second period. Benzouien closed the half with a jump shot at 40:21, while Ordane Kanda-Kanyinda (96) scored for 42:23 early in the third. Belgium added 25-14 in the third period and won also the last stanza 10-8. Simon Chapelle (196-C-96) and Rosen Ivanov scored the last points for each team that showed the final result on the board. Ordane Kanda-Kanyinda stepped up with 28 points and Benzouien notched 12. Demirtas and Boxus delivered 8 points each in a win. Alex Ouandie (193-G-96) ended up with 9 points in the losing effort, while Vasilev delivered 8.

Group C
Georgia - Bosnia 52-82
Bosnia and Herzegovina overcame Georgia in Bucharest at the U16 European Championship in Division B. The winning side produced a 82:52 win as both teams are tied with 1-1 record in Group C. Bosnia and Herzegovina won the opening tip 5:1 and Smajlovic scored for 12:7. Gacic closed a 6-0 run for 18:7, while Gogaladze delivered two for 20:13. The second quarter was a nightmare for Georgia and brought 30-11 surge for Bosnia. djorde Beronja (199-C-96) scored the last four points for the winners to send the teams to the lockers at 50:24. Moreover Bosnia and Herzegovina produced the same quarters in the second half winning them 16-14. Bevanda increased the win to 30 points as the teams finished the game in Romania. Amar Balic (178-PG-96) and Gacic chipped in with 15 points each, while djorde Beronja poured in 12. Isiani ended up with 14 points in the losing effort. Giorgi Gugeshashvili (197-F-96), Matchavariani, Davit Lomidze (187-SG-97) and Petriashvili followed him with 6 points apiece.

Montenegro - Romania 66-53
Montenegro successfully started the campaign at the U16 European Championship in Division B. They handed the hosts of the tournament a 66:53 loss for 1-0 record. Romanian meanwhile fell at 0-2 record in Group C. After the first loss in the opener, Romania started the game with 15-13. They tried hard in the second frame as well but could not keep the advantage. Montenegro scored some quick baskets for 22:16 lead and then Nikolic closed the quarter at 30:27. Covrig and Tanasie tied the game at 34:34, while Kuti brought the hosts 36:34 lead. Moreover Covrig delivered two for 46:43 at the end of the third quarter. He gave his side 48:45 advantage, but Montenegro created a 15-0 run to seal the victory. Petar Popovic led the way with 22 points and Aleksandar Dozic (199-F-96) collected 16 points and 10 rebounds. Nikolic added massive 15 points and 15 rebounds, while Aleksandar Novosel (185-PG-96) scored 6. Covrig delivered 16 points in defeat, while Tanasie had 12.

Group D
Portugal - Norway 52-33
Portugal rolled over Norway in Day 2 of the U16 European Championship Division B in Romania. The Portuguese team celebrated a 52:33 win for 2-0 record in Group D. It was a slow start for both teams. Portugal could not score for the first four minutes in the game and allowed the opponents to take 4-0 from the start. They closed however a quarter with a 7-0 run to take 11-10 advantage. Later Francisco Amiel (186-PG-96) scored four consecutive points to bring his team 25:16 at the halftime. Nymo and Frey reduced to 27:24 midway through the third quarter, while Salamanca was the last to score in the period for 32:24. Portugal needed a 20-9 burst in the last stanza to seal the victory. Oliveira, Sergio da Silva (191-SG-96) and Salamanca paced all the winners with 10 points each. Sjur Berg (196-PF-96) collected 13 points and 11 rebounds in defeat, while Nymo added 10.

Switzerland - Holland 66-55
Switzerland beat Netherlands in Day 2 of the U16 European Championship Division B in Romania. The Swiss side produced a 66:55 victory for 2-0 record in Group D. The Dutch side meanwhile fell at 0-2. Switzerland won the first period 13:11 and continued their push until the end of the game. They added 13-7 in the second quarter for 26:18 at the halftime. Franke meanwhile scored 5 consecutive points for Netherlands and reduced to 26:25. Mandic and Otoka meanwhile brought 43:34 at the end of the third quarter for the Swiss team. Switzerland posted another 23-21 in the last quarter to seal the victory. Mandic led the way with 17 points and Cafisi added 10. Giroud posted 8, while Beretta and Otoka scored 7 each. Franke ended up with 11 points in the losing effort and Lennart Overdevest (184-SG-96) nailed 10. Liem and Morren delivered 8 points each in a loss.

Hungary - Austria 88-57
Hungary improves to 2-0 record at the U16 European Championship Division B in Romania. The team overcame Austria 88:57 in Bucharest. The Austrian side meanwhile fell at 0-2 record. Hungary started the game with 26:16 and never looked behind after. They added massive 26-5 in the second frame as Kovacs closed the half at 51:42. Moreover Hungary won the third quarter 21-14 and had a comfortable lead after three quarters. Austria managed to win the last stanza 21-16 and reduce to 31 points. Florian Vogel (186-PG-96) and Ungi scored the last points for each side before the final buzzer. Antoni paced all the winners with 20 points, while Gyorgy Goloman (204-F/C-96) nailed 16. Hodi poured in 10 points and Pungor delivered 9. Marvin Ogunsipe (193-F-96) ended up with 9 points in the losing effort and Lehner scored 8.


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

Standings

Standings
Group E
1. Serbia5-0
2. Germany3-2
3. Greece2-3
4. France2-3
5. Russia2-3
6. Ukraine1-4
Group F
1. Slovenia5-0
2. Lithuania2-3
3. Spain2-3
4. Latvia2-3
5. Turkey2-3
6. Italy2-3
Group G (positions 13-16)
1. Sweden3-1
2. Montenegro2-2
3. Estonia2-2
4. Georgia1-3

Quarter-Finals: Round 7

Jul. 20: LTU - GRE 79-43
Jul. 20: SRB - LAT 74-65
Jul. 20: SLO - FRA 54-77
Jul. 20: GER - ESP 47-73

9-12 Place

Jul. 20: TUR - UKR 74-47
Jul. 20: RUS - ITA 68-69

G

Jul. 20: MNT - SWE 86-48
Jul. 20: GEO - EST 75-72

Semi-Finals: Round 8

11-12 places

Jul. 21: RUS - UKR

5-8 places

Jul. 21: LAT - GRE
Jul. 21: GER - SLO

9-10 places

Jul. 21: ITA - TUR

G

Jul. 21: MNT - GEO
Jul. 21: EST - SWE

SEMIFINAL

Jul. 21: SRB - LTU
Jul. 21: ESP - FRA


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. Austria3-1
2. Slovakia3-1
3. FYR Macedo.2-2
4. Holland2-2
5. Luxembourg.0-4
Group H (positions 9-18)
1. Denmark3-1
2. Portugal3-1
3. Switzerlan.2-2
4. Belarus2-2
5. Hungary0-4

Second Stage: Round 8

G

Jul. 20: AUT - MKD 77-85 OT
Jul. 20: NED - SVK 47-55

H

Jul. 20: HUN - DEN 55-77
Jul. 20: POR - SUI 42-52

Semi-Finals: Round 9

15-16 places

Jul. 21: MKD - SUI

17-18 places

Jul. 21: LUX - HUN

5-8 places

Jul. 21: POL - FIN
Jul. 21: ENG - BEL

SEMIFINAL

Jul. 21: BUL - CRO
Jul. 21: CZE - ISR


Division B: Classification Round for 9th to 18th Places went to an end - by Eurobasket News

Group G
Holland - Slovakia 47-55
Slovak Republic edged Netherlands in Sofia in the last game for the Classification Round for 9th to 18th Place in Division B in U20 European Championship. The winning side finished second in Group G with 3-1 record, while Netherlands are third with 2-2 record. Netherlands won the first period 13-10 and Ivan Filipan (193-G/F-92) nailed three for 16:12. Slovak Republic however needed to keep the opponents scoreless for the last 4 minutes in the second frame and grabbed 23:21 lead at the halftime. Slovak Republic added 13-11 in the third quarter and Jan Brutovsky (188-G-93) brought 36:32. Another 19-15 in the last quarter brought the final victory for Slovakia. Moravek top-scored for the winners with 13 points and 10 rebounds, while Dedecek added 13. Jan Brutovsky delivered 11 and Luley notched 7. Joel Brandt (195-F-92) replied with 16 points in the losing effort and Ivan Filipan had 7.

Austria - FYR Macedonia 77-85 OT
Austria wins Group G although falls to F.Y.R. of Macedonia at the Classification Round for 9th to 18th Place in Division B of the U20 European Championship. F.Y.R. of Macedonia won over the group leader 85:77 for 2-2 record to finish fourth. Austria meanwhile is on top with 3-1 record. F.Y.R. of Macedonia won the opening tip 21-17 and added 18-17 in the second frame. Austria needed a 18-14 in the third period and finished the fourth quarter with 19-18 as Friedrich tied the game at 71:71. F.Y.R. of Macedonia produced a 14-6 surge in overtime to seal the victory. Goran Markovski (195-G/F-92) paced all the winners with 31 points and 17 rebounds, while Boban Stajic (185-PG-93) posted 18. Ivanovikj delivered 15 and Dinevski ended up with 7 points. Hopfgartner erupted with 26 points and 13 rebounds in defeat and Filip Kramer (200-SF-92) had massive 19 points and 19 caroms. Friedrich notched 12, whilst Albert Ngoy (180-PG-93) chipped in with 9.

Group H
Hungary - Denmark 55-77
Denmark keep Hungary winless in Group H of the U20 European Championship in Division B. The Danish side meanwhile improved to 3-1 record after 77:55 victory. Hungary finished on the bottom of the group with 0-4 record. Denmark was the favorite of the game and started with 20:14 lead. Hungary did not give and Somenek tied the game at 30:30 midway through the second period. Bodor even gave the lead for Hungary, but Philip Hertz (210-C/F-92) brought 34:32 from the free throw line. The third quarter belonged to the winning team that needed a 24-12 surge to win the game. They added 19-10 in the last stanza to seal the win. Philip Hertz top-scored for the winners with 23 points and Dossing netted 18. Dennis Levene (201-F-92) and Eleraky followed them with 11 points each. Peter Jakab (187-G-93) delivered 20 points in defeat and Krisztian Tursics (185-G-92) scored 8.

Portugal - Switzerland 42-52
Portugal wins Group H despite the loss from the Switzerland at the Classification Round for 9th to 18th Place in Division B of the U20 European Championship. The latter won 52:42 and finished fourth with 2-2 record. Switzerland won the opening tip 4-0 and Brian Savoy (192-SG-92) later brought 11:3. Bozovic delivered two for 15:8 and Jeremy Landenbergue (182-PG-93) nailed three for 24:12. Switzerland added 19-15 in the second frame and led 30:19 at the halftime. Brian Savoy made another three free throws later in the third quarter for 35:26, while Cardoso closed the frame at 40:34. Portugal could not score for the first 7 minutes in the last stanza and allowed the opponents to take 43:34 advantage. Evrard Atcho (207-C/F-92) and Ventura scored the last points for their teams for the final result. Brian Savoy paced all the winners with 16 points, while Evrard Atcho collected 13 points and 14 rebounds. Marko Mladjan (206-F-93), Jeremy Landenbergue and Bozovic followed them with 6 points apiece. Grosso delivered 10 in defeat and Cardoso scored 7.


Spain, Serbia, Lithuania and France reach semifinals in Slovenia - by Eurobasket News

Quarterfinals

Serbia - Latvia 74-65
Serbia will play in U20 European Championship semifinal. They overcame Latvian counterparts tonight to stay in the title race. The Balkan team will now take on another Baltic side Lithuania in the semifinal clash. Luka Mitrovic (204-F/C-93) accounted for 16 points and 10 rebounds to pace the winners. Serbia started strongly. They held Latvia to 12 points in the first quarter posting a 6-point lead at the first break. The margin grew at 10-point mark early in the second quarter. But Latvia found the way to return into contest. Bremers even put the Latvian side in front 29:27. Nenad Miljenovic (194-G-93, agency: Beo Basket) capped the first half with two free throws to draw things level at 29. Vitols, Helmanis and Janis Timma (201-F/G-92, agency: FCM) put Latvia ahead by 7 points early in the second half 38:31. But Serbia answered right back to ensure a narrow 51:49 lead at the final intermission. Bogdan Bogdanovic (197-F-92) hit a triple to ignite a 13:0 run midway through the fourth frame as Serbia cleared off for good in this one. Nenad Miljenovic notched 14 points, while Bogdan Bogdanovic delivered 11 points for the winners. Janis Timma responded with 16 points for Latvia. Arturs Bricis had 15 points in the losing case.

Lithuania - Greece 79-43
Lithuania advanced into semifinal round of U20 European Championship. They knocked down Greece in the first quarterfinal of the day in Slovenia. Edgaras Ulanovas (197-G-92) accounted for 18 points to lead the winners. Lithuania opened the game with a stifling defence. They held Greece to 10 points in the first quarter posting a 5-point lead. Lithuania boosted the margin in the second quarter. The Baltic team accumulated a 38:23 halftime advantage. Lithuania cleared off in the third quarter. They unloaded 29 points to secure a comfortable 36-point cushion heading into the fourth frame. Lithuania never looked back afterwards coasting to the victory. Zygimantas Skucas (200-SF-92) delivered 14 points, while Vytenis Cizauskas added 11 points, 7 assists and 5 boards for the winners. Petros Melissaratos (205-F/C-93) answered with 15 points and 8 rebounds for Greece. Spyridon Motsenigos and Kostas Tsaprounis netted 6 points each in the loss.

Germany - Spain 47-73
Spain will play in the U20 European Championship semifinals. Daniel Diez (203-F-93) scored 22 points and grabbed 11 rebounds to lead Spain past Germany. The reigning champions led from start to finish. They built a 13:8 lead ten minutes into the game. The margin grew throughout the second quarter. Spain ensured a 33:24 halftime lead. Spain did not slow down in the third quarter. The defending champions ensured a 14-point buffer heading into the fourth frame. Spain held Germany to 8 points in the final quarter and sealed the victory at the end. Alejandro Abrines posted 13 points, while Jaime Fernandez (187-G-93) added 14 points for the winning side. Dennis Schroeder (185-PG-93) responded with 9 points for Germany. Philipp Neumann and Daniel Theis had 8 points each in the loss.

Slovenia - France 54-77
France advanced into U20 European Championship semifinals. They shocked hosting Slovenia handing those the first defeat at the tournament in the quarterfinal clash tonight. Leo Westermann (198-G-92, agency: Beo Basket) unleashed 21 points and issued 7 assists to lead Les Bleus. Slovenia got to a confident start. They posted a 19:15 lead at the first intermission. The teams stayed close throughout the second quarter. The hosts accounted for a 32:28 halftime lead. But things took a wrong turn for the home team in the third quarter. Leo Westermann knocked down 9 points to ignite a 26:8 run from Les Bleus as they posted a 54:40 lead with ten minutes remaining. Leo Westermann helped France gain a 66:42 lead midway through the fourth quarter and France never looked back en route to the victory. Axel Toupane (200-G/F-92) netted 19 points, while Rudy Gobert added 16 points and 12 rebounds for France. Klemen Prepelic (194-G-92) answered with 17 points for Slovenia. Gezim Morina netted 11 points in the loss.

9-12 Place
Russia - Italy 68-69
Italy overcame Russia in the classification round at U20 European Championship. Traini knocked down a free throw late in regulation to seal the victory for the Azzurri. Italy will now take on the winners of Ukraine vs. Turkey clash for the ninth overall position at the tournament. Russia got to a flying start. They piled up a 24:13 lead after ten minutes. Russia boosted the margin in the second term. They established a 40:25 halftime lead. But Italy turned the tables in the second half. They held Russia to 7 points in the third frame to cut the deficit to just two points at the final break. Italy gained a 62:54 lead midway through the fourth frame. Russia recovered and tied things up after three-pointer from Denis Zakharov. But Traini sank one free throw and clinched the victory for Italy. Amedeo Tessitori (205-C-94) posted 17 points, while Fabio Mian (196-F-92) had 13 points for the winners. Alexander Varnakov (185-PG-92) answered with 12 points for Russia. Denis Zakharov netted 10 points in the loss.

Turkey - Ukraine 74-47
Turkey will play for the 9th overall position at U20 European Championship. They held off Ukraine to set up the clash versus Italy. Ukraine will face Russia for the 11th overall position. Erbil Eroglu (195-PG-93) knocked down 14 points to lead Turkey. Turkey stunned Ukraine in the opening frame. They went on a 22:8 run to ensure a comfortable lead. Turkey stayed in control throughout the second quarter. They piled up a 40:22 halftime lead. Turkey maintained the lead throughout the third quarter. They ensured a 26-point lead at the final intermission. Turkey and Ukraine exchanged baskets throughout the fourth term as Ertugrul Erdogan team coasted to the victory. Ramazan Tekin (212-C-93) notched 12 points, while Ugur Dokuyan accounted for 10 points for the winners. Vyacheslav Bobrov (202-F-92) answered with 9 points and 10 rebounds for Ukraine. Olexandr Misyats had 8 points in the losing case.

Group G
Montenegro - Sweden 86-48
Montenegro clinched the second win at the U20 European Championship classification round. They overcame Sweden to improve at 2-2 record staying hopeful about remaining in Division A. Marko Mugosa (198-F-93) scored 23 points to pace the winners. Montenegro thumped their opponents in the first half. The Balkan team built a 21:9 lead at the first break. They stayed on top throughout the second quarter. Montenegro built a 41:22 halftime advantage. The Balkan side exploded with 33 points in the third term to boost the lead to 39-point mark at the final intermission and cruised to the victory at the end. Danilo Nikolic (206-C-93) posted 22 points and 11 rebounds for Montenegro. Vukota Pavic added 11 points in the victory. Marcus Eriksson (196-G/F-93) answered with 16 points for Sweden. Viktor Gaddefors, Tobias Borg and Fredrik Andersson notched 8 points each in the loss.

Georgia - Estonia 75-72
Georgia accounted for the first win at the U20 European Championship. They held off Estonia in the fourth round of action in classification round Group G. Beka Burjanadze (203-F-94) scored 22 points and grabbed 12 rebounds as Georgia improved at 1-3 record in the ladder. Estonia in the meantime fell at 2-2. The teams stayed close throughout the opening quarter. The scoreboard read 17:17 at the first break. Estonia pulled in front in the second quarter. They accumulated a 36:33 halftime lead. Estonia gained a 6-point lead midway through the third quarter but Georgia managed to narrow the deficit at 2-point mark 53:55. Beka Burjanadze scored 7 points early in the fourth period as Georgia pulled ahead 60:56. Estonia drew things level at 69 with under two minutes remaining. But Beka Burjanadze and Duda Sanadze dropped six free throws in the dying seconds to seal the victory for Georgia. Revaz Rogava (185-PG-93) notched 15 points, while Duda Sanadze added 11 points for the winners. Rannar Raap (190-G/F-92) answered with 15 points for Estonia. Oliver Metsalu had 14 points in the loss.


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  FBA   

Standings

FBA Standings
 1. Tampa Bay R. 10-2 
 2. Heartland P. 8-3 
 3. Florida Flight 2-9 
 4. Palm Beach T. 2-9 

Regular Season: Round 12

Jul. 21: Heartland P. - Florida Flight
Jul. 21: Palm Beach T. - Tampa Bay R.


Rebels Will Host Championship Game - by Eurobasket

The Tampa Bay Rebels have clinched home-court advantage for the 2012 Florida Basketball Association championship game. Tampa Bay earned the right to host the event after picking up their 10th win of the season this past weekend, which ensured that they would finish with the best regular-season record in the league. Currently standing at 10-1, the Rebels will face the Heartland Prowl at 8 p.m. on Saturday, July 28th at Freedom High School. These two teams played four exciting games during the regular season with the Prowl winning the initial matchup between the two teams before the Rebels bounced back to grab victories in the last three meetings.

Tickets for the championship game can be purchased for $10 at the door, and kids under 13 receive free admission to the game.
Courtesy of Tampa Bay Rebels


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  FINLAND   


KORISLIIGA: Martin Zeno back to Loimaa - by Rauno Hurmalainen

Finnish Champion 2011-12 Bisons from Loimaa has re-signed with American G-F Martin Zeno (196-G-85, college: Texas Tech). The contract is for coming 2012-13 season. Zeno played passed season 48 games on Bisons roster and averaged 19,7 ppg (2.), 8,2 rpg (7.) and 3,5 apg (9.). Zeno will return back to Finland at the end of August. Bisons re-signed already earlier with American G Jeb Ivey (190-G-80, college: Portland St.) (17,3 ppg - 3,3 rpg - 4,9 apg). Bisons is still after the third foreigner player. This player will probably be a center, a big man anyway.


U16 European Championship: Finland posts the initial win - by Eurobasket News

Finland U16- Luxembourg U16 89:82

Finland posts the initial win at the U16 European Championship in Division B. The Finnish side grabbed 89:82 victory over Luxembourg and improved to 1-1 record. Luxembourg meanwhile fell at 0-2 record in Group A.
Timothy Kauffmann (191-F-96) scored half of the points for Luxembourg but it was not enough for the win. His team trailed 17:23 after the first period and had 33:45 at the halftime. Finland looked better in the game and added another 24-22 in the third quarter. Timothy Kauffmann scored four three-pointers in a row to reduce to 79:77. Henri Niemisto (194-G-96) however was perfect from the free throw line and brought the necessary win for the Finnish side.
Elias Eerikinharju (185-G-96) top-scored for the winners with 18 points for the first victory. Henri Niemisto notched 15, while Samuli Nieminen (200-F-96) added 12. Timothy Kauffmann erupted with 41 points in the losing effort, while Oliver Vujakovic (192-F-96) had 19 points and 16 rebounds.

Finland U16: Elias Eerikinharju 18, Henri Niemisto 15, Samuli Nieminen 12
Luxembourg U16: Timothy Kauffmann 41, Oliver Vujakovic 19+16 rebs


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  FRANCE   

Standings - ProB

ProB Standings
 1. Antibes 0-0 
 2. Bordeaux 0-0 
 3. Boulogne 0-0 
 4. Bourg 0-0 
 5. Chalons-Reims 0-0 
 6. Charleville 0-0 
 7. Denain 0-0 
 8. Evreux 0-0 
 9. Fos Ouest 0-0 
 10. Hyeres-Toulon 0-0 
 11. Le Portel 0-0 
 12. Lille 0-0 
 13. Maurienne 0-0 
 14. Nantes 0-0 
 15. Pau-Lacq-Orthez 0-0 
 16. Rouen 0-0 
 17. St Quentin 0-0 
 18. St Vallier 0-0 

Regular Season: Round 1

Sep. 28: Maurienne - Rouen
Sep. 28: Le Portel - Antibes
Sep. 28: Denain - Chalons-Reims
Sep. 28: Lille - Fos Ouest
Sep. 28: Nantes - Evreux
Sep. 29: Bourg - Boulogne
Sep. 29: St Quentin - St Vallier
Sep. 28: Pau-Lacq-Orthez - Hyeres-Toulon
Sep. 28: Charleville - Bordeaux


U20 European Championship: France shock Slovenia in quarterfinal - by Eurobasket News

Slovenia U20 - France U20 54:77

France advanced into U20 European Championship semifinals. They shocked hosting Slovenia handing those the first defeat at the tournament in the quarterfinal clash tonight. Leo Westermann (198-G-92, agency: Beo Basket) unleashed 21 points and issued 7 assists to lead Les Bleus.
Slovenia got to a confident start. They posted a 19:15 lead at the first intermission. The teams stayed close throughout the second quarter. The hosts accounted for a 32:28 halftime lead. But things took a wrong turn for the home team in the third quarter. Leo Westermann knocked down 9 points to ignite a 26:8 run from Les Bleus as they posted a 54:40 lead with ten minutes remaining. Leo Westermann helped France gain a 66:42 lead midway through the fourth quarter and France never looked back en route to the victory. Axel Toupane (200-G/F-92) netted 19 points, while Rudy Gobert (212-C-92) added 16 points and 12 rebounds for France. Klemen Prepelic (194-G-92) answered with 17 points for Slovenia. Gezim Morina (204-C/F-92) netted 11 points in the loss.

Slovenia U20: Klemen Prepelic 17, Gezim Morina 11
France U20: Leo Westermann 21, Axel Toupane 19, Rudy Gobert 16+12 boards


U16 European Championship: France stay perfect defeating Poland - by Eurobasket News

France U16 - Poland U16 65:54

France recorded the second straight win at the U16 European Championship. They held off Poland in Group D action. Antoine Wallez (202-PF-96) knocked down 18 points to lead the winners.
Poland led 14:5 midway through the opening frame. But France responded with a 21:0 run to grab a 26:14 lead midway through the second stanza. They established a 33:23 halftime lead. France maintained the advantage throughout the third quarter. Les Bleus posted a 50:38 lead at the final break. The margin grew at 20-point mark and France cruised to the victory at the end. Etienne Ory (175-PG-96) netted 12 points, while Lenny Charles-Catherine (194-G-96) added 8 points for the winning side. Filip Pruefer (208-C-96) answered with 12 points for Poland. Igor Wadowski (194-SG-96) had 9 points in the loss.

France U16: Antoine Wallez 18, Etienne Ory 12, Lenny Charles-Catherine 8
Poland U16: Filip Pruefer 12, Igor Wadowski 9


Saint-Quentin signs F Amu Saaka - by Eurobasket News

Amu Saaka (197-F-88, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Furman) will play next season in French ProB, according to Catch-and-shoot.com. The American/Ghanian forward signed a 1-year deal with Saint-Quentin. He shined last season in Dutch Eredivisie as a member of Landstede Basketbal Zwolle. For 36 games in the league Saaka had 11.7 ppg, 6.8 rpg and 1.4 apg. He helped Zwolle to reach the Playoff and Cup Semifinals. The forward participated at Eredivisie All-Star Game. It was the first season as a pro for Amu Saaka, who graduated a year ago at Furman University. He had 15.6 ppg and 6.5 rpg for 33 games as a senior. Saaka registered almost the same numbers in 2009/10. The player transferred to Furman in 2008 from the University of South Florida. He was redshirted in 2008/09 season due to the NCAA transfer rules.


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  FYR MACEDONIA   


U20 European Championship: Austria wins Group G although falls to F.Y.R. of Macedonia - by Eurobasket News

Austria U20- F.Y.R. of Macedonia U20 77:85 OT

Austria wins Group G although falls to F.Y.R. of Macedonia at the Classification Round for 9th to 18th Place in Division B of the U20 European Championship. F.Y.R. of Macedonia won over the group leader 85:77 for 2-2 record to finish fourth. Austria meanwhile is on top with 3-1 record.
F.Y.R. of Macedonia won the opening tip 21-17 and added 18-17 in the second frame. Austria needed a 18-14 in the third period and finished the fourth quarter with 19-18 as Daniel Friedrich (182-PG-92) tied the game at 71:71. F.Y.R. of Macedonia produced a 14-6 surge in overtime to seal the victory.
Goran Markovski (195-G/F-92) paced all the winners with 31 points and 17 rebounds, while Boban Stajic (185-PG-93) posted 18. Ivanovikj delivered 15 and Filip Dinevski (197-SG-93) ended up with 7 points. Maximilian Hopfgartner (206-PF-92) erupted with 26 points and 13 rebounds in defeat and Filip Kramer (200-SF-92) had massive 19 points and 19 caroms. Daniel Friedrich notched 12, whilst Albert Ngoy (180-PG-93) chipped in with 9.

Austria U20: Maximilian Hopfgartner 26+13 rebs, Filip Kramer 19+19 rebs, Daniel Friedrich 12, Albert Ngoy 9
F.Y.R. of Macedonia U20: Goran Markovski 31+17 rebs, Boban Stajic 18, Ivanovikj 15, Filip Dinevski 7


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  GEORGIA   


U16 European Championship: Bosnia and Herzegovina overcame Georgia in Bucharest - by Eurobasket News

Georgia U16- Bosnia and Herzegovina U16 52:82

Bosnia and Herzegovina overcame Georgia in Bucharest at the U16 European Championship in Division B. The winning side produced a 82:52 win as both teams are tied with 1-1 record in Group C.
Bosnia and Herzegovina won the opening tip 5:1 and Smajlovic scored for 12:7. Sandro Gacic (196-SG-96) closed a 6-0 run for 18:7, while Gogaladze delivered two for 20:13. The second quarter was a nightmare for Georgia and brought 30-11 surge for Bosnia. djorde Beronja (199-C-96) scored the last four points for the winners to send the teams to the lockers at 50:24. Moreover Bosnia and Herzegovina produced the same quarters in the second half winning them 16-14. Bevanda increased the win to 30 points as the teams finished the game in Romania.
Amar Balic (178-PG-96) and Sandro Gacic chipped in with 15 points each, while djorde Beronja poured in 12. Willy Isiani (195-PF-97) ended up with 14 points in the losing effort. Giorgi Gugeshashvili (197-F-96), Soso Matchavariani (196-SF-96), Davit Lomidze (187-SG-97) and Temur Petriashvili (180-SG-96) followed him with 6 points apiece.

Georgia U16: Willy Isiani 14, Giorgi Gugeshashvili 6, Soso Matchavariani 6, Davit Lomidze 6, Temur Petriashvili 6
Bosnia and Herzegovina U16: Amar Balic 15, Sandro Gacic 15, djorde Beronja 12


U20 European Championship: Georgia celebrate first win in Slovenia - by Eurobasket News

Georgia U20 - Estonia U20 75:72

Georgia accounted for the first win at the U20 European Championship. They held off Estonia in the fourth round of action in classification round Group G. Beka Burjanadze (203-F-94) scored 22 points and grabbed 12 rebounds as Georgia improved at 1-3 record in the ladder. Estonia in the meantime fell at 2-2.
The teams stayed close throughout the opening quarter. The scoreboard read 17:17 at the first break. Estonia pulled in front in the second quarter. They accumulated a 36:33 halftime lead. Estonia gained a 6-point lead midway through the third quarter but Georgia managed to narrow the deficit at 2-point mark 53:55. Beka Burjanadze scored 7 points early in the fourth period as Georgia pulled ahead 60:56. Estonia drew things level at 69 with under two minutes remaining. But Beka Burjanadze and Duda Sanadze (196-G/F-92) dropped six free throws in the dying seconds to seal the victory for Georgia. Revaz Rogava (185-PG-93) notched 15 points, while Duda Sanadze added 11 points for the winners. Rannar Raap (190-G/F-92) answered with 15 points for Estonia. Oliver Metsalu (196-G-93) had 14 points in the loss.

Georgia U20: Beka Burjanadze 22+12 boards, Revaz Rogava 15, Duda Sanadze 11
Estonia U20: Rannar Raap 15, Oliver Metsalu 14


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  GERMANY   


U16 European Championship: Germany earn second win in a row - by Eurobasket News

Germany U16 - Slovenia U16 69:50

Germany posted the second consecutive win at the start of U16 European Championship in Lithuania/Latvia. They knocked down Slovenian counterparts to improve at 2-0 record on top of Group C. Jan Wimberg (202-G-96) stepped up with 18 points and 11 rebounds to pace the winners. Slovenia fell at 0-2 record after the loss.
Germany strongly entered the encounter. They built a 24:14 lead ten minutes into the game. Germany boosted the gap in the second quarter. They piled up a 42:23 halftime lead. Slovenia tried to change the complexion of the game in the third quarter. They held German team to 11 points to narrow the margin to 14 points with one period remaining. But Germany responded adequately in the final frame to seal the comfortable win at the end. Sebastian Schmitt (180-PG-96), Constantin Ebert (180-PG-96) and Mahir Agva (202-C-96) finished with 8 points each for Germany. Grega Sajevic (183-SG-96) answered with 16 points for Slovenia. Sandi Grubelic (187-PG-96) netted 10 points in the loss.

Germany U16: Jan Wimberg 18+11 boards, Sebastian Schmitt 8, Constantin Ebert 8, Mahir Agva 8
Slovenia U16: Grega Sajevic 16, Sandi Grubelic 10


Chemnitz Niners nab Alex Jones - by Moritz Korff

2. Bundesliga Pro A team BV Chemnitz 99 has completed the signing of Alex Jones (206-F-87, college: Seattle). The 24-year-old is a 2011 graduate of Seattle University (NCAA Division 1). He averaged 11.8 points, 4 rebounds and 3.4 assists per contest as a senior in the 2010-11 season.
However, Jones had a rough start into professional basketball. He spent some time with a second division team in Chile and then moved to Luxembourg in February 2012. He only had three appearances for Diekirch League side Amicale Steinsel and produced 9.7 points, 9 boards, 2 assists as well as 2 steals per outing.
"It was a lost year for him, because he didn't really get a chance. We are eager to give Alex an opportunity and I am sure he is capable of doing much better than last season, when he has the chance to participate in pre-season practice with a team", Chemnitz coach Felix Schreier stated.


Schekauski leaves Bernau - Mier will stay - by Moritz Korff

Regionalliga North team SSV Lok Bernau has to let go Felix Schekauski (198-F/G-87), who decided to leave the club after five years. Schekauski will focus on his studies in the future and therefore wants to put basketball in second place.
Meanwhile, Viktor Mier (192-F-86) has agreed on a contract extension with the Bernau team. The 26-year-old forward reached an agreement with SSV Lok for the next two years. In the 2011-12 season Mier scored 4,2 points per contest in the 2. Bundesliga Pro B.


Dragons Rhoendorf sign Geddes Robinson - by Moritz Korff

Geddes Robinson (195-F-87, agency: SDJ Sports) will boost the Dragons Rhoendorf in the upcoming 2012-13 season in the 2. Bundesliga Pro B, the club unveiled today. Robinson completed his college career at NCAA Division One school Utah Valley this year. He averaged 9.8 points and 10.4 rebounds a game during this past campaign.
"Geddes' style of play is very special, but it fits very well to what we were looking for", Dragons' head coach Boris Kaminski said.


Scorers1st Las Vegas Pro Showcase 2012 Top Performer Player Breakdown - by Daniel Poerschke

45 players participated in last weekends showcase in Las Vegas in the MPE gym on the UNLV campus. More then 30 pro teams from around the globe (Germany, Austria, Netherlands, Finland, Japan, Taiwan, Luxemburg, Mexico, etc) were in attendance to check out the action.


# 13 Larry Gordon (196-F-87, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Cal Poly Pomona), 6'6, SF/SG
Three year European first level veteran. Was the MVP of this showcase. Can do it all. Has the pro body. Can handle the ball and attacks from the wing. Scores well from the three-point line and can defend multiple positions.

# 28 Anthony Johnson, 6'7, SF
Played at East Tennessee State (NCAA 1) and NAIA powerhouse Azusa Pacific last season. Anthony is a true scorer. He can put the ball in the basket with ease from the wing or through penetration. His body is build like a pro. Very athletic and also a good outside shooter. Looked confident with and without the ball in his hands throughout the three-day tournament. Possesses leadership qualities and can defend multiple positions.

# 33 Joshua Lockett, 6'8, PF
Josh will apply for a german passport now, as his mother is a german citizen. The big and strong PF played for NAIA powerhouse Georgetown in Kentucky. He is strong in the low post and knows how to finish around the rim. Has outside range up to the three-point line, although his strength is under the basket. Decent rebounder and defender. With his german passport Josh will be a valuable addition to any german BBL or European team, which can use Bosman players.

# 38 Patrick Mitchell, 6'8, SF
Sharp-shooting tall forward. Patrick can play inside and outside. He can really shoot the basketball from outside. He played all four years at NCAA 1 North Dakota. Will drive also to the basket and finish around the rim with an athletic drive. Patrick rebounds the ball well for a player his size.

# 21 Mahlon Thomas, 6'6, SF/PF
Thomas played at NCAA 3 Wisconsin-Stout. After taking some time off after high school, Thomas decided to get a degree and play close to home. He was one of the biggest surprises of the showcase, as nobody expected anything from him, but he really played strong and athletic. Made the successful transition from a strictly inside player in college to a rim attacking wing player as a pro.

# 11 Travis Clark, 6'4, PF
Did his usual unspectacular double-double work under the basket. Will play for the german Pro B team Wolfenbuettel next season.

# 7 Chase Adams, 5'9, PG
Was the best guard at the showcase. Has already two years in Germany under his belt, spend the last season with Jena in the Pro A. Very quick, can jump higher the most taller players. Knows how to control and lead the game. Scorer, playmaker, defender, he can do everything.

# 16 Marcus Coleman, 6'8, SF
Scoring machine from NCAA 2 School Washington Adventist. Very athletic wing athlete. Sometimes was unstoppable with the ball in his hands. Marcus can match anybodys athleticism with his long arms, strong legs and versatility. Was a consistent shooter from outside also

# 18 Brandon Richardson, 6'1, PG/SG
Brandon Richardson showed that he is comfortable playing both guard spots on offense and on defense. Started at NCAA 1 Nebraska in the Big 10 conference. Athletic, goes hard to the rim, can shoot from outside and is quick enough to defend players at three positions.

# 32 Blake Poole, 6'5, PF
Mr. Double-Double came fresh from his IBL championship with the Bellingham Slam. Was the second most efficient player in the whole german Pro B league last season. Will play again in that league next season.

# 29 Darrell Bullock, 6'2, PG
Returning Scorers1st Showcase participant, who was the breakthrough player in 2010. Has two years of pro experience in Germany on his resume already. Can play with anybody. Likes to split screens in pick and roll situations. Strong drive to the basket, great court vision, but needs to work on his outside shot.

# 37 David Lane, 6'1, PG
Big Time scorer. Aggressive guard, who plays with a high motor. Can change the pace and also play an organized game as a playmaker. He is the guy who should have his hands on the ball in last minute situations. Can shoot from deep.

# 50 Justin Manns, 6'10, PF
Big body kid out of NCAA 1 Kent State. Very athletic and aggressive under the basket. He threw down some nasty dunks after putbacks or easy dishes from his guards. Has long arms and takes away a lot of area on the defensive end.

Honorable Mention:

# 3 Jermele Jenkins, 5'11, PG
NCAA 1 experienced floor leader out of Iona University. Can run a team and score with everybody. Can defend full court to put lots of pressure at the opposing guard.

# 49 Jake Reinders, 6'9, PF/SF
Solid contributor from NCAA 2 school Northwest Missouri State. Can shoot from outside. Good shot-blocker and rebounder, although he is more outside oriented. His future position will be the SF spot.

# 6 Marcus Hill, 5'9, PG
NBA D-League experienced small guard, who can run a team. Showed flashes of good playmaking and scoring. Definitely a player to watch out for in the future.

# 47 Robert Curtis, 6'9, PF
Robert is a big body in the lane. Left-handed Power Forward from Wayland Baptist University (NAIA). Robert was active under the basket and has good hands catching the basketball and finishing close to the hoop. He has range out to the middle-distance. He can score with his right hand also and has a short hook shot, which he used in a couple of possessions during the games.

# 48 Zach Warner, 6'9, PF
The NCAA 2 All-Star from Christian Brothers University struggled at the beginning of the showcase, but found his rhythm over the course of the three days. Can score inside and outside. Surprisingly good shot-blocker. Needs to put on more weight and strength.

# 45 Jabari Edwards, 6'10, PF
The big man from NCAA 1 George Washington helped his team with his low post presence, shot-blocking and rebounding. Was hampered by a little knee injury, but played through it.

# 53 Al Rapier, 6'8, SF/PF
Slasher from NCAA 1 Stony Brook, who improved from game to game. Showed a nice hoop-attacking game and good ball handling skills, even under pressure. Good rebounder and defender. Needs to work on his outside shooting game.

# 36 Nat Lester, 6'6, Hofstra
The athletic wing had to miss the third day, as he was hit in the mouth in a game on Saturday. Versatile athlete, good defender.

# 46 Brandon Hassell, 6'10, PF
Experienced big man out of NCAA 1 Penn State. Bounced around the past few years in the US minor leagues, but his now ready to enter the European leagues. Can shoot from outside, knows how to score in the paint and has a pro ready body.





For more stats, videos and recaps go to: http://scorers1stshowcase.wordpress.com/




Anthony King Remains With The Artland Dragons - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

The Artland Dragons announced today that Anthony King (206-F/C-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Miami, FL) will remain a Dragon. King is a 27 year old 206cm forward from Durham, North Carolina that recently got the Cypriot citizenship. King who leraned his basketball expertise at Miami (NCAA) will play his third season in the Beko BBL and second with Quackenbruck. Last season after having played two successful season in Cyprus, he returned back to the Beko BBL to Artland and played EuroCup Qualifications: 2 games: 3.0ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.0bpg; EuroChallenge: 14 games: 10.8ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 62.0%, FT: 81.8%; German League: 36 games: 9.9ppg, 5.9rpg, 1.1apg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 57.0%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 80.2%. "I am happy that Anthony will return. He was a very stable factor last season and responsible for our sucess. He will give us even more stability this season. He is a role model, accepts his role and is very effective", stated Artland Dragons head coach Stefan Koch. King is the fourth Dragon to remain after Johannes Strasser, Christian Hoffmann and Guido Grnheid

Source: Artland Dragons


London Warren (If I Was The GM Of The Hornets, I Would Sign Brian Roberts) - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber


London Warren (183-G-87, agency: TSS Management, college: Dayton) is a 24 year old 183cm guard from Jacksonville, Florida. He played college ball at Dayton from 2006-2010 and in his senior year played 37 games: 4.5ppg, 3.5rpg, 4.1apg, 1.2spg. He was a rookie in 2010-2011 and played for the Gloria Giants Duesseldorf (Germany-1.Bundesliga), waived in Nov.'10: 2 games: 4.0ppg, 1.0rpg, 1.5apg, 1.5spg. Last season, he coached at Georgia Tech. He is ready to play overseas again and spoke to Eurobasket about basketball and his ex teammate Brian Roberts. Check out sweet game highlights from London Warren (183-G-87, agency: TSS Management, college: Dayton) at http://youtu.be/-VuslbWUfJU

London how have your summer work outs been going so far? The summer isnt getting any younger. August is around the corner. Does the nervousness get stronger with every new day and no new contract with a team?

My summer workouts have been going great working out with professional basketball players on the daily such as Jamon Gordon Lucas, Derwin Kitchen and Juwann James. All three played at a very high level last season in Europe. They push me and motivate me to work hard so its been a good summer. Yes it be very nerve wrecking to wake up as an unsigned player. That's what the agent is there for there I know I have to be patient its not just going to happen over night its a process. I just take care of what I can take care of which is getting in the gym everyday and putting the right foods and fluids in my body.

How does your conditioning look like on Mondays, Wednesday and Friday? What are the best conditioning drills for basketball players from your experience?

My conditioning workouts consists of the same thing I change it up sometimes but for the most part I just do 8x 200 meters on the track or I do 3x 800meters. I think the best condioning workouts for me personally come on the track but that's just my opinion.

You put up 300 shots every afternoon. What were the most shots that you hit in 300 attempts?

Well one day I made 230 out of 300 and that was a great shooting day for me.

Your highlight video looks very spectacular. Your coast to coast runs are nice to look at. Which NBA player amazed you most with their fast break coast to coast runs?

People say my game reminds them of Rondo the way we always looking to get our teammates involved but still can score the ball at the same time. I admire the way Rondo pushes the ball and also Westbrook those 2 point guards amaze me the most in transition.

You played two seasons with Bamberg guard Brian Roberts. Did you know at Dayton, that he would have such a strong European basketball career so quickly?

Brian Roberts is a great player and his smarts and professionalism towards the game you knew he would be an instant success once he got an chance to showcase his talents at a high level. I learned a lot in my 2 season from Brian Roberts off and on the court and wish him the best in this upcoming season.


Presently Brian Roberts is playing with the New Orleans Hornets summer league team. He has had a good camp averaging 13,3ppg, 2,0rpg, 1,7apg, 52% fgp and 42%3pg. How proud are you of his play in this camp?

I am very proud of Brian Roberts play in summer play just to sit and watch him and a few other of my college teammates play at such a high level is a great honor. I also have former teammates Chris Wright, Chris Johnson, and Devin Searcy playing in the NBA summer league.

The Hornets Have many talented guards like Marco Bellinelli, Eric Gordon, Jerome Dyson, Austin Rivers. How do you see his chances of making this team?

Well if I was the GM, I would sign him but I am not the GM and don't really know anything about the free agent field so I can make an comment on that question.

A big quality of Brian Roberts is his killer instinct on the court. What fascinated you most about his game at Dayton?

The way he scored the ball so effective, always shooting great percentages from the field and not needing a lot of shots to get a lot of points. He could score 25 points without taking double digit field goals which is hard.

What was the most incredible thing that you saw Brian Roberts do on the court?

It had to be his senior year he had the best month of December of any player in the country. Dropping 30 on the likes of Louisville and Pittsburgh both teams were ranked in the top 10 at the time and we won both games. It was a great honor to play alone side a great guard like Brian Roberts.

The USA Olympic team has so many superstars. Who will be the teams MVP?

Kobe end of conversation!!!

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

I watched Next Friday earlier today

Thanks London for the chat.



The Kirchheim Knights Keep Jonathan Maier - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber


PRO A club Kirchheim have announced that Jonathan Maier (211-C/F-92, agency: Limelight Hoops) will remain in Schwaben with the Kirchheim Kinights. Maier is a 19 year old 210cm center that will be playing his second season with the Knights. He also has a double license to play for Beko BBL team Neckar Riesen Ludwigsburg. The team hopes that he can play more of a role this season. Last season he played for : EnBW Ludwigsburg (1.Bundesliga): 2 games: 1.0ppg, 1.0rpg; had also a license to play for VfL Kirchheim Knights (ProA): 15 games: 2.3ppg, 1.3rpg. "Jonathan has a lot of potential. We hope tat he will show it tis season", stated Knights sport director Michael Schmauder.

Source: Kirchheim Knights


Philipp Lieser Joins The BSW Sixers - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber



Beko BBL team Mitteldeutscher BC have announced that Philipp Lieser (193-G-87) will get a double license to play for them as well as playing for cooperation partner PRO B team BSW Sixers thiss eason. Lieser is a 22 year old 193cm guard that just played two seasons in the United States for Cent.Washington (NCAA2) where he played a total of 37 games. Last season, he played 18 games: 3.2ppg. "Philipp is a guard with good penetration to the basket. He has a lot of potential and quite big for his position. He gave a good impression in the try out on the floor and mentally. He will give support in training, develop further and help the Sixers as well", stressed MBC head coach Silvano Poropat (agency: FCM ). The German has played for teams like TSV Crailsheim Merlins (2.Bundesliga), SG Bad Duerkheim/Speyer (Regionalliga) and BG Karlsruhe (ProA) 15 games: 2.6ppg, also have a license to play at PSK City Baskets Karlsruhe (Regionalliga): 21 games: 16.0ppg. "The concept of this cooperation convinced me to come and I am thrilled about it. I was in Weissenfels for three days to see the structure and the organization is great. I have worked together with Silvano in Karlsruhe and also had a long phone call with Stephen Arigbabu", stressed Philipp Lieser. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been GNAC Regular Season Champion -11, GNAC Tournament Winner -11, and GNAC Tournament Semifinals -12

Source: Mitteldeutscher BC


The ETB Wohnbau Baskets Essen Keep Joey Henley - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

The ETB Wohnbau Baskets Essen have announced that Joey Henley (196-PF-85, agency: Fierce Sports Management, college: Sacred Heart) will remain in Essen. Henley is a 27 year old 196cm forward that will be starting his fourth season in Germany after having played in Dortmund and Wulfen. Last season for Essen, he played 31 games: 11.3ppg, 5.7rpg, FGP: 61.7%, FT: 67.0%. "Joey is a very important player for the team. We are really happy that he has remained with us", stated ETB Wohnbau Baskets sport director Markus Horn. Last season the American from Kent, Washington scored in double figures 17 times including 20 points against USC Heidelberg.

Source: ETB Wohnbau Baskets


Aurimas Adomaitis Signs With Science City Jena - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber


PRO A team Science City Jena announced the signing of Aurimas Adomaitis (206-PF-87, college: LIU Brooklyn) today. Aurimas Adomaitis (206-PF-87, college: LIU Brooklyn) is a 25 year old 205cm 112 kilo center from Lithuvania. Last season he played for Kedainiai Triobet (LKL): Baltic League: 20 games: 8.0ppg, 5.1rpg, FGP: 57.3%, FT: 60.0%; Lithuanian League: 22 games: 8.7ppg, 5.8rpg, FGP: 62.9%, 3PT-2 (50.0%), FT: 57.0%. "The Lithuvania basketball scholl has belonged to the best in the world for a long time. I am happy that the team could get a player from Lituvania again. Despite less playing time he was able to be in the top 10 rebounding. Even if he may not be as athletic as an American, we see other qualities in him. He plays eith a lot of energy, sets good picks, does the dirty work and can still get better on offense", stressed Science City jena head coach Georg Eichler .

Aurimas Adomaitis started his basketball career in 2002 with Sabonis BS. He also played for Zalgiris-Sabonio mokykla Kaunas (LKAL) before going to the Staes to get that NCAA experience at LIU Brooklyn (NCAA) where he played form 2006-2009. He played a total of 57 NCAA games. In 2009-2010, he played for Alytus Alita (LKL, starting five): Baltic League: 7 games: 8.3ppg, 5.7rpg, FGP: 46.5%, FT: 60.0%; Lithuanian League: 23 games: 10.3ppg, 7.1rpg, FGP: 50.9%, 3PT: 16.7%, FT: 53.8%. In 2010-2011, he played for Juventus-LKSK Utenos (LKL): Baltic League: 14 games: 8.9ppg, 5.3rpg, FGP: 58.1%, FT: 72.2%; Lithuanian League: 30 games: 6.6ppg, 3.8rpg, FGP: 55.1%, FT: 71.3%. "I am really excited, because I don't know what to expect. I only know Jena from fotos, but have heard something about it. I want to help the team be successful. I am a basketball worker and work hard for success. I am looking forward to my teammates and fans", stressed Aurimas Adomaitis. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been Lithuanian U16 National Team -03, European Championships U16 in Spain -03, Lithuanian U18 National Team Camp -04, Lithuanian U18 National Team -04-05, Kamkabel International Junior Tournament in Moscow (unofficial European Junior Championships for Clubs) -05 (finalist), NEC Regular Season Runner-Up -09, Baltic League (Challenge Cup) Champion -11
Lithuanian League Semifinals -11, and Lithuanian Cup Semifinals -12

Source: Science City Jena


Jone Pedro Lopez Moves To TBB Trier - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Beko BBL team TBB Trier continue to form their roster for the upcoming season as they announced the arrival of Jone Pedro Lopez. TBB Trier head coach Henrik Rodl continues to be a believer in bringing in young talent and did that with Jone Pedro Lpoez. Jone Pedro Lopez is a 208cm center that has the Portuguese nationality and was born in 1990. Last season he played for the Giants Duesseldorf II (Germany-2.Regionalliga). He started his basketball career with Sport Alges e Dafundo (Proliga) in 2010 where he played 10 games: 3.6ppg, 2.5rpg.


U20 European Championship: Spain ease past Germany - by Eurobasket News

Spain U20 - Germany U20 73:47

Spain will play in the U20 European Championship semifinals. Daniel Diez (203-F-93) scored 22 points and grabbed 11 rebounds to lead Spain past Germany. The reigning champions led from start to finish. They built a 13:8 lead ten minutes into the game. The margin grew throughout the second quarter. Spain ensured a 33:24 halftime lead. Spain did not slow down in the third quarter. The defending champions ensured a 14-point buffer heading into the fourth frame. Spain held Germany to 8 points in the final quarter and sealed the victory at the end. Alejandro Abrines (198-F-93) posted 13 points, while Jaime Fernandez (187-G-93) added 14 points for the winning side. Dennis Schroeder (185-PG-93) responded with 9 points for Germany. Philipp Neumann (210-C-92) and Daniel Theis (206-C/F-92) had 8 points each in the loss.

Spain U20: Daniel Diez 22+11 boards, Jaime Fernandez 14, Alejandro Abrines 13
Germany U20: Dennis Schroeder 9, Philipp Neumann 8, Daniel Theis 8


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  GHANA   


Saint-Quentin signs F Amu Saaka - by Eurobasket News

Amu Saaka (197-F-88, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Furman) will play next season in French ProB, according to Catch-and-shoot.com. The American/Ghanian forward signed a 1-year deal with Saint-Quentin. He shined last season in Dutch Eredivisie as a member of Landstede Basketbal Zwolle. For 36 games in the league Saaka had 11.7 ppg, 6.8 rpg and 1.4 apg. He helped Zwolle to reach the Playoff and Cup Semifinals. The forward participated at Eredivisie All-Star Game. It was the first season as a pro for Amu Saaka, who graduated a year ago at Furman University. He had 15.6 ppg and 6.5 rpg for 33 games as a senior. Saaka registered almost the same numbers in 2009/10. The player transferred to Furman in 2008 from the University of South Florida. He was redshirted in 2008/09 season due to the NCAA transfer rules.


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  GREECE   


U20 European Championship: Lithuania topple Greece to enter semifinals - by Eurobasket News

Lithuania U20 - Greece U20 79:43

Lithuania advanced into semifinal round of U20 European Championship. They knocked down Greece in the first quarterfinal of the day in Slovenia. Edgaras Ulanovas (197-G-92) accounted for 18 points to lead the winners.
Lithuania opened the game with a stifling defence. They held Greece to 10 points in the first quarter posting a 5-point lead. Lithuania boosted the margin in the second quarter. The Baltic team accumulated a 38:23 halftime advantage. Lithuania cleared off in the third quarter. They unloaded 29 points to secure a comfortable 36-point cushion heading into the fourth frame. Lithuania never looked back afterwards coasting to the victory. Zygimantas Skucas (200-SF-92) delivered 14 points, while Vytenis Cizauskas (190-SG-92) added 11 points, 7 assists and 5 boards for the winners. Petros Melissaratos (205-F/C-93) answered with 15 points and 8 rebounds for Greece. Spyridon Motsenigos (193-SG-92) and Kostas Tsaprounis (210-C/F-92) netted 6 points each in the loss.

Lithuania U20: Edgaras Ulanovas 18, Zygimantas Skucas 14, Vytenis Cizauskas 11
Greece U20: Petros Melissaratos 15, Spyridon Motsenigos 6, Kostas Tsaprounis 6


U16 European Championship: Greece thump Czech Republic - by Eurobasket News

Greece U16 - Czech Republic U16 86:61

Greece improved at 2-0 record in Group D of U16 European Championship. They held off Czech Republic to stay undefeated. Dimitrios Stamatis (192-G-96) accounted for 23 points to pace the Hellenes.
Greece fired 27 points in the opening quarter. They recorded a 13-point lead at the first intermission. Czech Republic bounced back in the second term. They narrowed the gap at just 4-point mark at halftime 35:39. The Hellenes cleared off in the third quarter. They established a 15-point lead at the final intermission. Georgios Papagiannis (210-C-97) gave Greece a 20-point lead early in the final period. Vasileios Charalampopoulos (199-F-97) delivered 13 points, while Thomas Kottas (204-C-96), Georgios Papagiannis and Konstantinos Zorzos (188-PG-96) had 8 points each in the win. Matej Svoboda (200-PF-96) answered with 22 points for Czech Republic. Marek Mares (185-G-96) nailed 13 points in the losing case.

Greece U16: Dimitrios Stamatis 23, Vasileios Charalampopoulos 13, Thomas Kottas 8, Georgios Papagiannis 8, Konstantinos Zorzos 8
Czech Republic U16: Matej Svoboda 22, Marek Mares 13


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  HOLLAND   


U16 European Championship: Switzerland beat Netherlands in Day 2 - by Eurobasket News

Switzerland U16-Netherlands U16 66:55

Switzerland beat Netherlands in Day 2 of the U16 European Championship Division B in Romania. The Swiss side produced a 66:55 victory for 2-0 record in Group D. The Dutch side meanwhile fell at 0-2.
Switzerland won the first period 13:11 and continued their push until the end of the game. They added 13-7 in the second quarter for 26:18 at the halftime. Yannick Franke (185-G-96) meanwhile scored 5 consecutive points for Netherlands and reduced to 26:25. Luka Mandic (195-F-96) and Owandji Otoka (185-SF-96) meanwhile brought 43:34 at the end of the third quarter for the Swiss team. Switzerland posted another 23-21 in the last quarter to seal the victory.
Luka Mandic led the way with 17 points and Mattia Cafisi (181-PG-97) added 10. Mathieu Giroud (185-SF-96) posted 8, while Andrea Beretta (175-PG-97) and Owandji Otoka scored 7 each. Yannick Franke ended up with 11 points in the losing effort and Lennart Overdevest (184-SG-96) nailed 10. Joey Liem (175-SG-96) and Adeola Morren (193-PF-96) delivered 8 points each in a loss.

Switzerland U16: Luka Mandic 17, Mattia Cafisi 10, Mathieu Giroud 8, Andrea Beretta 7, Owandji Otoka 7
Netherlands U16: Yannick Franke 11, Lennart Overdevest 10, Joey Liem 8, Adeola Morren 8


U20 European Championship: Slovak Republic edged Netherlands in Sofia - by Eurobasket News

Netherlands U20- Slovak Republic U20 47:55

Slovak Republic edged Netherlands in Sofia in the last game for the Classification Round for 9th to 18th Place in Division B in U20 European Championship. The winning side finished second in Group G with 3-1 record, while Netherlands are third with 2-2 record.
Netherlands won the first period 13-10 and Ivan Filipan (193-G/F-92) nailed three for 16:12. Slovak Republic however needed to keep the opponents scoreless for the last 4 minutes in the second frame and grabbed 23:21 lead at the halftime. Slovak Republic added 13-11 in the third quarter and Jan Brutovsky (188-G-93) brought 36:32. Another 19-15 in the last quarter brought the final victory for Slovakia.
Jaroslav Moravek (204-F/C-92) top-scored for the winners with 13 points and 10 rebounds, while Viktor Dedecek (200-F-93) added 13. Jan Brutovsky delivered 11 and Matus Luley (195-F-92) notched 7. Joel Brandt (195-F-92) replied with 16 points in the losing effort and Ivan Filipan had 7.

Netherlands U20: Joel Brandt 16, Ivan Filipan 7
Slovak Republic U20: Jaroslav Moravek 13+10 rebs, Viktor Dedecek 13, Jan Brutovsky 11, Matus Luley 7


GasTerra Flames inks playmaker Maurice Miller - by Fred Roggen

Dutch powerhouse GasTerra Flames fortified its backcourt with the signing of point guard Maurice Miller (187-G-88, college: Georgia Tech), who arrives from Islandic club U.M.F. Tindastoll. Miller signed a one-year deal for the upcoming season.
The 24-year-old Miller is a 2011 graduate of Georgia Tech University (NCAA Division 1). He averaged 6.0 points, 2.2 rebounds and 2.4 assists per contest as a senior in the 2010-11 season. In his first pro-year the pointguard played for U.M.F. Tindastoll on Iceland where he averaged 18.6ppg, 7.0rpg, Assists-3 (6.0apg), Steals-5 (2.2spg), FGP: 46.6%, 3PT: 32.0%, FT: 77.5% in 24 Express league games.



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  HUNGARY   


U16 European Championship: Hungary improves to 2-0 record - by Eurobasket News

Hungary U16-Austria U16 88:57

Hungary improves to 2-0 record at the U16 European Championship Division B in Romania. The team overcame Austria 88:57 in Bucharest. The Austria side meanwhile fell at 0-2 record.
Hungary started the game with 26:16 and never looked behind after. They added massive 26-5 in the second frame as Kovacs closed the half at 51:42. Moreover Hungary won the third quarter 21-14 and had a comfortable lead after three quarters. Austria managed to win the last stanza 21-16 and reduce to 31 points. Vogel and Ungi scored the last points for each side before the final buzzer.
Csanad Antoni (193-SF-96) paced all the winners with 20 points, while Gyorgy Goloman (204-F/C-96) nailed 16. Patrik Hodi (197-PF-96) poured in 10 points and Szabolcs Pungor (194-SF-96) delivered 9. Marvin Ogunsipe (193-F-96) ended up with 9 points in the losing effort and Gabriel Lehner (190-SF-96) scored 8.

Hungary U16: Csanad Antoni 20, Gyorgy Goloman 16, Patrik Hodi 10, Szabolcs Pungor 9
Austria U16: Marvin Ogunsipe 9, Gabriel Lehner 8


U20 European Championship: Denmark keep Hungary winless - by Eurobasket News

Hungary U20-Denmark U20 55:77

Denmark keep Hungary winless in Group H of the U20 European Championship in Division B. The Danish side meanwhile improved to 3-1 record after 77:55 victory. Hungary finished on the bottom of the group with 0-4 record.
Denmark was the favorite of the game and started with 20:14 lead. Hungary did not give and Somenek tied the game at 30:30 midway through the second period. Bodor even gave the lead for Hungary, but Philip Hertz (210-C/F-92) brought 34:32 from the free throw line. The third quarter belonged to the winning team that needed a 24-12 surge to win the game. They added 19-10 in the last stanza to seal the win.
Philip Hertz top-scored for the winners with 23 points and Soren Dossing (185-G-92) netted 18. Dennis Levene (201-F-92) and Sami Eleraky (210-C-93) followed them with 11 points each. Peter Jakab (187-G-93) delivered 20 points in defeat and Krisztian Tursics (185-G-92) scored 8.

Hungary U20: Peter Jakab 20, Krisztian Tursics 8
Denmark U20: Philip Hertz 23, Soren Dossing 18, Dennis Levene 11, Sami Eleraky 11


Dill signed with Pecs, Spice moves to Kaposvar - by Tamas Deri

American power forward Anthony Dill (200-F-81, college: Texas St.) agreed with the management of Pecs and will start the coming season in Hungary again. The 2 meters tall power forward is a very well known player in our country. After 3 seasons in Holland and Belgium he played for Dombovar in 2008-09 and run a great season averaging 19.5ppg, 7.3rpg, 1.3apg, 1.7spg. The next season he played for ASE and put up 14.1ppg, 5.3rpg, 1.3spg in 36 games helping his team to reach the Finals. After two good seasons in Hungary he decided to move to France and signed with Saint Vallier Basket Drome, but played only 7 games because of an injury. In January 2012 he signed with Frstenfeld in Austria and played for the club in the Cup Final Four.

The management of Kaposvar published just some hours ago, that serbian big man, Marko Spica (205-F/C-86, college: Cent.Michigan) signed for the coming season. The 205 cm tall, 26 years old power forward graduated on the University of Central Michigan in 2010 and averaged 7.3ppg, 3.3rpg as a senior. After his NCAA-carreer he played for Superfund BP Beograd and Radnicki Kragujevac in Serbia before moving to KK Maribor Messer in Slovenia, where he put up 9.6ppg, 4.1rpg in 27 games of the last season


Minor transfers around the league - by Levente Szabo

Kaposvari KK added to their roster the experienced guard, Gabor Drahos (185-G-79). Gabor spent his last two seasons with Szeged where he was one of the key domestic players. Last year he played 30 minutes a game and he recorded 9.4ppg, 4.1rpg, 4.3apg and Steals-2 (2.6spg).

Mate Medve (197-G-89, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) decided to leave Jaszbereny and he will join coach Branislav Dzunic 's Albacomp-UPC Szekesfehervar. The young talent will have to play in a new role with his new team as he was brought in to be a backup PG. Mate played most of his professional career as a SG but growing up he played the PG position too, so he will be familiar with the situation. The 6'6" guard had his strongest season so far last year averaging 6.2ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.5apg and 1.0spg.

Another player leaving Jaszbereny is Andras Helmeczi (195-G-90, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) who just signed a one year contract with Factum Sport Debrecen. Andras was member of the Hungarian National Team in every age group from the U16-s to the U20-s and he is a member of the Hungarian University National Team too. The young combo guard played as a role player for Pecs, Kis-Raba menti Takarek Soproni KC and Jaszbereny and signed to Factum Sport Debrecen with the hopes of getting more playing time to showcase his talent.

Robert Gaal (192-G-89) will leave Hungarian powerhose Szolnok and will join newly relegated Zalakeramia-ZTE KK. The young guard couldn't find minutes on the floor in the best Hungarian team and he decided that it is best for his career to move to a team where he will get playing time.

Ivan Bus (191-PG-93) signed with Kis-Raba menti Takarek Soproni KC. They 1993 born talented PG will be the main backup to Jermaine Thomas and is expected to see much more minutes on the floor as he would have with Atomeromu.


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  ICELAND   


Mens national team to play Lithuania - by Snorri Arnaldsson

The Icelandic mens national team headed to Lithuania this morning, where they will practice and play two games. The first game will be played on Saturday, July 21st against a select team of Lithuanian professional players and the second game will be against the Lithuanian national team on July 24th. The Icelandic team will be missing two strong guards, Jakob Sigurdarson (192-G-82, college: Birm.Southern) and Hoerdur Vilhjalmsson (193-G-88). The Icelandic team is as follows:

#4 Brynjar Bjornsson (191-G-88, college: Francis Marion)
#5 Haukur Palsson (198-F-92, college: Maryland)
#6 Arni Ragnarsson (192-G-87)
#7 Finnur Magnusson (206-C, college: Catawba)
#8 Hlynur Baeringsson (200-F/C-82) (captain)
#9 Jon Stefansson (196-G-82)
#10 Helgi Magnusson (198-G/F-82, college: Catawba)
#11 Axel Karason (193-F-83)
#12 Pavel Ermolinskij (202-G/F-87, agency: I.D.S. Law)
#13 Aegir Steinarsson (185-G-91, college: Newberry)
#14 Logi Gunnarsson (190-G-81)
#15 Sigurdur Thorsteinsson (204-C-88)

This will be a very tough task for the Icelandic team, which is preparing for it's first tournament play since 2009. Lithuania is fresh off the qualification tournament and is in the midst of their preparation for the 2012 Olympics.


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  ISRAEL   


U16 European Championship: Sweden jumps on top of Group A - by Eurobasket News

Israel U16-Sweden U16 52:65

Sweden jumps on top of Group A at the U16 European Championship in Division B. The Scandinavian team overcame Israel 65:52 in the first game of Day 2. Israel meanwhile just started the campaign and fell at 0-1 record.
Israel started the game with 11-8 lead and scored also 11 points in the second frame. It was not however enough to win the quarter as Sweden replied with 15 points for 23:22 advantage. Sweden added 23-10 in the third quarter and grabbed 46:32 after three quarters. Israel won the last stanza 20-19 but reduced to 13 points at the end.
Ludvig Hakanson (190-PG-96) was unstoppable with 29 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists, while Sheriff Drammeh (186-G-96) added 10. Erik Johansson (194-F-96) and William Skagius (200-PF-96) ended up with 8 points each, while the latter also added 10 rebounds. Netanel Artzi (196-F-97) finished the game with 13 points in defeat. Roi Huber (184-G-97) notched 11, whilst Tamir Blatt (178-PG-97) delivered 8.

Israel U16: Netanel Artzi 13, Roi Huber 11, Tamir Blatt 8
Sweden U16: Ludvig Hakanson 29+8 rebs+6 ast, Sheriff Drammeh 10, Erik Johansson 8, William Skagius 8+10 rebs


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  ITALY   


Umana Reyer Venezia keeps Alvin Young for 2012/13 - by Eurobasket News

Umana Reyer Venezia officially announced signing of a 1-year deal with Alvin Young (188-PG-75, college: Niagara). It will be their fourth straight season together. Young arrived to the club in January of 2010 from Edimes Pavia. He helped them win promotion from Lega2 to SerieA a year ago. Last season Young appeared 35 times in the league averaging 11.7 points, 3 rebounds and 1.7 assists. In 2010/11, he exploded with 16.3 ppg, 3.9 rpg and 2 apg for 38 Lega2 games.
Before Venezia and Pavia, Alvin Young spent 2008/09 season with Reggio Emilia. There he had 19.3 ppg, 3.5 rpg, 2.7 spg and 2.2 apg for 30 games in LegaDue. He played for them also in 2007/08 and had even better numbers. In the past, Young was a member of Capo d'Orlando, Ironi Naharyia, Strasbourg, Bnei Hasharon, Cantu and Esperos Athens. From 2001 to 2004 he also played for Reggio Emilia.


U16 European Championship: Italy rally past England for second win - by Eurobasket News

Italy U16 - England U16 65:47

Italy registered the second straight win at U16 European Championship preliminary round. They knocked down England in Group A in Ventspils. Daniel Donzelli (199-SG-96) came up with 15 points, 11 rebounds and 5 steals to lead the Azzurri. England fell at 0-2 record after the loss.
Italy did not waste too much time as they surged in front in the opening quarter. The Azzurri piled up a 21:11 lead after ten minutes. The margin grew in the second frame. Italy ensured a 38:25 halftime lead. Italy stayed in control throughout the third term. They piled up a 17-point advantage at the final break. Italy outscored England in the fourth quarter posting a well-deserved win at the end. Diego Flaccadori (184-PG-96) had 12 points, while Federico Mussini (179-PG-96) and Riccardo Rossato (189-PG-96) accounted for 11 points each in the victory. Jules Akodo (G-96) replied with 17 points and 8 rebounds for England. Justas Muzikevicius (204-PF-96) had 9 points in the loss.

Italy U16: Daniel Donzelli 15+11 boards, Diego Flaccadori 12, Federico Mussini 11, Riccardo Rossato 11
England U16: Jules Akodo 17, Justas Muzikevicius 9


Juve Caserta keep Giuliano Maresca - by Eurobasket News

Juve Caserta keep Giuliano Maresca (192-G-81) for the upcoming season. According to Ufficio Stampa Juve Caserta, the Italian team will have the guard for 2012/2013 season.
Last year Pepsi Caserta announced arrival of Giuliano Maresca who penned a two-year deal. Maresca played the earlier two seasons for Enel Brindisi. In 2010/11, he had 6.5 ppg and 1.6 rpg for 30 games in SerieA. A year before, Maresca collected 10.3 ppf, 2.1 rpg and 1 apg. He helped Brindisi to win the promotion from Lega Due to SerieA. They won Lega Due title in 2010.
Before Brindisi, Giuliano Maresca spent two seasons with Benetton Treviso. He also has experience from Montegranaro and Roseto. Maresca was a member of Italian National Team in 2009. In 2005 and 2010 he was named Eurobasket.com Italian Lega2 All-Domestic Players Team.


Sutor Montegranaro close to Zachary Andrews - by Eurobasket News

Sutor Montegranaro are reportedly set to sign Zachary Andrews (203-F/C-85, college: Bradley). The centre spent the last season in D-League. He played for the Los Angeles D-Fenders. His stats read 8.4 points, 6.8 rebounds and 1.0 steal per appearance. Zachary Andrews participated at 2012 D-League All-Star Game. The centre earned USBasket.com All-D-League Honourable Mention. Previously Zachary Andrews had stints in D-League, Japan, Spain, Turkey, Bosnia. He earned All-Turkish TB2L Honourable Mention in 2008. The centre also earned All-Spanish LEB Bronze Honourable Mention in 2009. In 2010 Zachary Andrews made it into All-Spanish LEB Silver 2nd Team.


DeShawn Sims is on Caserta's target - by Eurobasket News

DeShawn Sims (203-F-88, college: Michigan) is on Caserta's target for the upcoming season. According to sportando.net, Juve Caserta is eyeing DeShawn Sims for the forward position.
In 2007-2008 he appeared for Michigan (NCAA) and averaged 12.3ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.0spg, FGP: 39.5%, 3Pts: 30.3%, FT: 69.2%. In 2008-2009 he improved to 15.4ppg, 6.8rpg, 1.1spg, FGP: 50.5%, 3Pts: 31.7%, FT: 71.0%. In his last season for Michigan (NCAA) his stats read 16.8ppg, 7.6rpg, 1.1spg, FGP: 49.2%, 3PT: 28.4%, FT: 67.0%.
In 2010-2011 moved to PAOK Thessaloniki (Greece-A1) and later moved to Maine Red Claws (D-League, starting five). In 48 games he became the fifth top-scorer with 20.3ppg, 7.7rpg, 1.5apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 52.8%, 3PT: 39.5%, FT: 67.9%. In April signed at Quebradillas Pirates (Puerto Rico-BSN) and showed 9.4ppg, 3.7rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 51.1%, 3PT: 26.7%, FT: 57.1%.
The season 2011-2012 started for KCC Egis (Korea-KBL, starting five) and was the 4th top-scorer of the league with 23.9ppg, 9.6rpg, 1.9apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 55.2%, 3PT: 28.8%, FT: 70.2%. In Mar.'12 moved to Maine Red Claws (D-League) and had 8.2ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 40.4%, FT: 33.3%.


U20 European Championship: Italy nip Russia in classification round - by Eurobasket News

Italy U20 - Russia U20 69:68

Italy overcame Russia in the classification round at U20 European Championship. Traini knocked down a free throw late in regulation to seal the victory for the Azzurri. Italy will now take on the winners of Ukraine vs. Turkey clash for the ninth overall position at the tournament.
Russia got to a flying start. They piled up a 24:13 lead after ten minutes. Russia boosted the margin in the second term. They established a 40:25 halftime lead. But Italy turned the tables in the second half. They held Russia to 7 points in the third frame to cut the deficit to just two points at the final break. Italy gained a 62:54 lead midway through the fourth frame. Russia recovered and tied things up after three-pointer from Denis Zakharov (193-PG-93). But Traini sank one free throw and clinched the victory for Italy. Amedeo Tessitori (205-C-94) posted 17 points, while Fabio Mian (196-F-92) had 13 points for the winners. Alexander Varnakov (185-PG-92) answered with 12 points for Russia. Denis Zakharov netted 10 points in the loss.

Italy U20: Amedeo Tessitori 17, Fabio Mian 13, Awudu Abass (196-G-93) 12
Russia U20: Alexander Varnakov 12, Denis Zakharov 10


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  LATVIA   


U20 European Championship: Serbia outscore Latvia to reach semis - by Eurobasket News

Serbia U20 - Latvia U20 74:65

Serbia will play in U20 European Championship semifinal. They overcame Latvian counterparts tonight to stay in the title race. The Balkan team will now take on another Baltic side Lithuania in the semifinal clash. Luka Mitrovic (204-F/C-93) accounted for 16 points and 10 rebounds to pace the winners.
Serbia started strongly. They held Latvia to 12 points in the first quarter posting a 6-point lead at the first break. The margin grew at 10-point mark early in the second quarter. But Latvia found the way to return into contest. Bremers even put the Latvian side in front 29:27. Nenad Miljenovic (194-G-93, agency: Beo Basket) capped the first half with two free throws to draw things level at 29. Vitols, Helmanis and Janis Timma (201-F/G-92, agency: FCM) put Latvia ahead by 7 points early in the second half 38:31. But Serbia answered right back to ensure a narrow 51:49 lead at the final intermission. Bogdan Bogdanovic (197-F-92) hit a triple to ignite a 13:0 run midway through the fourth frame as Serbia cleared off for good in this one. Nenad Miljenovic notched 14 points, while Bogdan Bogdanovic delivered 11 points for the winners. Janis Timma responded with 16 points for Latvia. Arturs Bricis (196-SG-92) had 15 points in the losing case.

Serbia U20: Luka Mitrovic 16+10 boards, Nenad Miljenovic 14, Bogdan Bogdanovic 11
Latvia U20: Janis Timma 16, Arturs Bricis 15


U16 European Championship: Ukraine shoot down Latvia - by Eurobasket News

Ukraine U16 - Latvia U16 73:58

Ukraine coasted to the second win at the U16 European Championship. They overcame Latvia to stay undefeated at 2-0 record in Group B. Latvia slipped at 0-2 record after the loss.
Ukraine jumped to an early lead. They posted a 19:12 lead at the first break. Latvia narrowed the margin in the second frame. They got within 4 points at the interval 36:32. Latvia stayed aggressive in the third period. They trimmed the deficit at the third period to trail by three points 44:47. Ukraine however took over in the final frame. They fired 26 points to silence their opponents. Oleksandr Kobets (192-SF-96) nailed 24 points to lead the charge. Vadym Golyk (188-SF-96) and Yevgen Balaban (198-PF-96) had 11 points each in the victory. Ervins Meznieks (184-F-96) answered with 17 points for Latvia. Rihards Lomazs (175-PG-96) netted 10 points in the loss.

Ukraine U16: Oleksandr Kobets 24, Vadym Golyk 11, Yevgen Balaban 11
Latvia U16: Ervins Meznieks 17, Rihards Lomazs 10


Ventspils adds PG Donald Sims - by Eurobasket News

Donald Sims (185-PG-87, college: Appalachian St.) will continue his career in Latvia. The American point guard signed a deal with Ventspils for the next season. He arrives to the club from Venezuelan Gaiteros de Zulia. Sims joined them in January averaging 24.1 points, 3.5 assists, 2.8 rebounds and 2.5 steals for 36 games. He was top scorer of the LPB and was named to Latinbasket.com All-Venezuelan LPB 1st Team -12. Sims also played at the LPB All-Star Game. Before Gaiteros, Donald Sims played for the NBA D-League team Reno Bighorns. There he had 6.9 ppg, 2.9 apg and 1.1 rpg for 8 games. It was his first pro deal. Sims graduated at the Appalachian State University something more than a year ago. The player had 21 ppg, 3.7 rpg and 3.6 apg as a senior.


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  LBQ   


Jaguars win inaugural season of LBQ - by Eurobasket News

Riviere des Prairies Jaguars are the winners of LBQ inaugural season. They destroyed Monteregie in the Big Final 88-57. The game was played on Monday, July 16.
In the Semifinals, Jaguars outplayed Seigneurs 79-67 to reach the title game. In the other Semis, Monteregie was too strong for Revolution 86-75.
Jaguars finished regular season as No.3 with 6-10 record. They skipped QFinals and joined directly in the Semis. The other finalist, Monteregie, had to play QFinals as they were No.4 of the regular season with 5-11 record. The same numbers had last ranked Page-Dynamo, but Monteregie eliminated them in very exciting game 80-77.
LBQ inaugural season had five teams and the league hopes to have more in its next edition.


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  LEBANON   


THE NEXT CHAPTER - by Brandon Brown

Hello Asia, this Brandon Brown (201-F-85, college: CS San Bernar.) coming to you live through the eurobasket airways, its a great day today. I have a lot to be thankful for. Im healthy, breathing and living life to the fullest. Its almost time of the year where guys are getting signed, getting into the best shape they can before pre-season and making important decisions on there future in basketball. Its almost the third qt of the signings theres still a lot of time for a lot of guys to get a job. So if you didnt already sign dont panic,its still alot of time for you to sign.I personally havent signed yet but i have a few options on the table right now but i know there will be more options and possibly better ones to come. This blog was suppose to be about me but let me take time out to say im proud of my son Davin White (186-G-81, college: CS Northridge) for signing in germany. He signed super early but i know he made the right decision for his career, he has made his pops proud of him. now back to back to me, i have played all around the world from lithuania,poland,portugal,mexico,argentina,uruguay, and even iceland for a short time. And if you are wondering it wasnt that cold in iceland. I had a great time learning the culture in each place i have been. Never would i have thought when i was a kid i would play professional basketball in any other country let alone even own a passport. But i am TRULY blessed. I recently played in uruguay and led the league in scoring which was a huge accomplishment for me, and i wasnt to far in rebounds with 9 a game which isnt bad but solid. Life has been great for me the past year, so lets see what the future has for me. If you dont already know me by now allow me to introduce myself. or you can watch me on you tube. (brandon brown mix 32)


Brandon Brown signing out


YOLO



Latest news from the off season - by Asia-Basket Lebanon

In the latest news of the Off Season of the Lebanese League Amchit is continuing to strengthen its roster after the signatures of Matt Freije, Mohamad Hamdar and Sabah Khoury, this time it was the turn of Robert Dagher to renew with the team after spending one season in the Division 2 and Helping Amchit to win the championship and qualifying to the Division 1.

In other news Moutahed is working to come back to the winning track the team had couple of years ago when they played the finals , for this reason they welcomed back Roy Samaha who helped Anibal last season to reach the final for the first time in the clubs history and to win the Lebanese Cup , he will team up with Rony Fahed. The word is Moutahed is working to bring back its ex point guard Darren Kelly to the League.

Sagesse the most active team in the off season signed the twin brother of Charles Tabet , Philip Tabet , hes a post player who played in the NCAA with S.Alabama.

Hoops club signed Hussein Tawbe after the departure of Mohamad Hamdar , this signature will join Hussein Tawbe to Ali Fakhreddine again after many years in Riyadi.


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  LITHUANIA   


U20 European Championship: Lithuania topple Greece to enter semifinals - by Eurobasket News

Lithuania U20 - Greece U20 79:43

Lithuania advanced into semifinal round of U20 European Championship. They knocked down Greece in the first quarterfinal of the day in Slovenia. Edgaras Ulanovas (197-G-92) accounted for 18 points to lead the winners.
Lithuania opened the game with a stifling defence. They held Greece to 10 points in the first quarter posting a 5-point lead. Lithuania boosted the margin in the second quarter. The Baltic team accumulated a 38:23 halftime advantage. Lithuania cleared off in the third quarter. They unloaded 29 points to secure a comfortable 36-point cushion heading into the fourth frame. Lithuania never looked back afterwards coasting to the victory. Zygimantas Skucas (200-SF-92) delivered 14 points, while Vytenis Cizauskas (190-SG-92) added 11 points, 7 assists and 5 boards for the winners. Petros Melissaratos (205-F/C-93) answered with 15 points and 8 rebounds for Greece. Spyridon Motsenigos (193-SG-92) and Kostas Tsaprounis (210-C/F-92) netted 6 points each in the loss.

Lithuania U20: Edgaras Ulanovas 18, Zygimantas Skucas 14, Vytenis Cizauskas 11
Greece U20: Petros Melissaratos 15, Spyridon Motsenigos 6, Kostas Tsaprounis 6


Zalgiris Kaunas bring in Darjus Lavrinovic and Tremmel Darden - by Eurobasket News

Zalgiris Kaunas bring in Darjus Lavrinovic (212-C-79) and Tremmell Darden (194-G/F-81, college: Niagara) for the upcoming season. The Lithuanian champions added two loud names to their roster.
Darjus Lavrinovic comes from CSKA. Last year the Lithuanian player averaged 7.8ppg, 3.7rpg, FGP: 60.9%, 3PT: 47.8%, FT: 80.9% in Russian League and in Euroleague showed 4.7ppg, 2.7rpg. In VTB League his stats read 8.6ppg, 3.7rpg, FGP-3 (67.6%), 3PT: 38.7%, FT: 81.1%.
Earlier Darjus Lavrinovic played for Fenerbahce Ulker. His stats read 8.0 points, 4.4 boards and 1.3 assists per game in Euroleague. In PBL the centre tallied 9.5 points, 5.5 boards and 1.3 assists per appearance. Eurobasket.com named Darjus Lavrinovic All-Turkish League Defensive Player of the Year. It is not the first stint in Russia for the Lithuanian player. He played for Dynamo Moscow and Unics Kazan. Darjus Lavrinovic was on Lithuanian National Team roster since 2005.
Tremmell Darden arrives from Unicaja Malaga (Spain-ACB, starting five). Last season in 21 games the American player averaged 8.0ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 45.9%, 3PT: 42.9%, FT: 72.7%. In Euroleague his stats read 8.0ppg, 3.4rpg, FGP: 45.5%, 3PT: 30.8%, FT: 78.3%.


U16 European Championship: Serbia post first win - by Eurobasket News

Serbia U16 - Lithuania U16 70:64

Serbia recorded the initial win at the U16 European Championship. They prevailed against Lithuania to improve at 1-1 record in Group C. Jovan Starincevic (188-PG-96) came up with 28 points for the winners.
Lithuania looked better at the start of the game. The Baltic side built a 19:12 lead ten minutes into the game. Serbia however denied the deficit in the second term. The Balkan team tied things up at 34 after twenty minutes. Serbia finally pulled ahead in the third term. They held Lithuania to 14 points to take a 7-point lead into the fourth quarter. Domantas Sabonis (199-PF-96) put Lithuania within two midway through the period but Serbia stayed calm and executed a confident win at the end. Nikola Pavlovic (199-PF-96) accounted for 12 points, while Vasilije Vucetic (206-PF-96) added 10 points in the victory. Deividas Zemgulis (194-PF-96) notched 11 points for Lithuania. Domantas Sabonis had 9 points and 13 rebounds in the loss.

Serbia U16: Jovan Starincevic 28, Nikola Pavlovic 12, Vasilije Vucetic 10
Lithuania U16: Deividas Zemgulis 11, Domantas Sabonis 9


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  LUXEMBOURG   


U16 European Championship: Finland posts the initial win - by Eurobasket News

Finland U16- Luxembourg U16 89:82

Finland posts the initial win at the U16 European Championship in Division B. The Finnish side grabbed 89:82 victory over Luxembourg and improved to 1-1 record. Luxembourg meanwhile fell at 0-2 record in Group A.
Timothy Kauffmann (191-F-96) scored half of the points for Luxembourg but it was not enough for the win. His team trailed 17:23 after the first period and had 33:45 at the halftime. Finland looked better in the game and added another 24-22 in the third quarter. Timothy Kauffmann scored four three-pointers in a row to reduce to 79:77. Henri Niemisto (194-G-96) however was perfect from the free throw line and brought the necessary win for the Finnish side.
Elias Eerikinharju (185-G-96) top-scored for the winners with 18 points for the first victory. Henri Niemisto notched 15, while Samuli Nieminen (200-F-96) added 12. Timothy Kauffmann erupted with 41 points in the losing effort, while Oliver Vujakovic (192-F-96) had 19 points and 16 rebounds.

Finland U16: Elias Eerikinharju 18, Henri Niemisto 15, Samuli Nieminen 12
Luxembourg U16: Timothy Kauffmann 41, Oliver Vujakovic 19+16 rebs


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  MONTENEGRO   


Pavlovic signed a three year deal with the Trailblazers - by Darko Pekic

Sasha Pavlovic (200-F/G-83) joined Portland Trailblazers and signed a three year deal with the team coached by Nate McMillan . In a trade deal which involved three teams Boston got Courtney Lee while Houston got JaJuan Johnson (208-F-89, college: Purdue), E'Twaun Moore (192-G-89, agency: Priority Sports, college: Purdue) and Shawne Williams (206-F/C-86, college: Memphis) .The 28 year old Montenegrin guard will look to add experience to Portland's young squad and some quality minutes starting from the bench.

Pavlovic started his NBA career in 2003. Portland will be his 7th NBA team.


Montenegro win against Latvia 94-68 in second game - by Dragan Scepanovic

More than on Thursday evening game (94:76), men's basketball team of Montenegro defeated Latvia and the second control the match in Zlatibor with 94:68 (24:14, 21:21, 25:18, 24:15). The most efficient in the winning team was Nikola Ivanovic with 19 points, Vladimir Dasic scored 16, Aleksa Popovic (201-G/F-87) scored 12 and Bojan Popovic Dubljevic 10 points.
These are for Montenegro the first test since the start of preparations that are doing a 25th June. Also, the second control matches with the Latvians, "red" have completed preparations in Zlatibor, where they stayed from 1 July. For tomorrow's planned return to Montenegro, and the preparation will be continued in the Bar. On 24 July is our selection of travel to the tournament in Italy, where from 25 to to 27 July apportion power to the host, then Bosnia and Herzegovina and Finland.


U16 European Championship: Montenegro successfully started the campaign - by Eurobasket News

Montenegro U16-Romania U16 66:53

Montenegro successfully started the campaign at the U16 European Championship in Division B. They handed the hosts of the tournament a 66:53 loss for 1-0 record. Romanian meanwhile fell at 0-2 record in Group C.
After the first loss in the opener, Romania started the game with 15-13. They tried hard in the second frame as well but could not keep the advantage. Montenegro scored some quick baskets for 22:16 lead and then Zoran Nikolic (202-C-96) closed the quarter at 30:27. Caius-Gabriel Covrig (179-PG-96) and Robert Tanasie (96) tied the game at 34:34, while Kuti brought the hosts 36:34 lead. Moreover Caius-Gabriel Covrig delivered two for 46:43 at the end of the third quarter. He gave his side 48:45 advantage, but Montenegro created a 15-0 run to seal the victory.
Petar Popovic (188-PG-96) led the way with 22 points and Aleksandar Dozic (199-F-96) collected 16 points and 10 rebounds. Zoran Nikolic added massive 15 points and 15 rebounds, while Novosel scored 6. Caius-Gabriel Covrig delivered 16 points in defeat, while Robert Tanasie had 12.

Montenegro U16: Petar Popovic 22, Aleksandar Dozic 16+10 rebs, Zoran Nikolic 15+15 rebs, Novosel 6
Romania U16: Caius-Gabriel Covrig 16, Robert Tanasie 12


U20 European Championship: Montenegro thrash Sweden - by Eurobasket News

Montenegro U20 - Sweden U20 86:48

Montenegro clinched the second win at the U20 European Championship classification round. They overcame Sweden to improve at 2-2 record staying hopeful about remaining in Division A. Marko Mugosa (198-F-93) scored 23 points to pace the winners.
Montenegro thumped their opponents in the first half. The Balkan team built a 21:9 lead at the first break. They stayed on top throughout the second quarter. Montenegro built a 41:22 halftime advantage. The Balkan side exploded with 33 points in the third term to boost the lead to 39-point mark at the final intermission and cruised to the victory at the end. Danilo Nikolic (206-C-93) posted 22 points and 11 rebounds for Montenegro. Vukota Pavic (203-C-93) added 11 points in the victory. Marcus Eriksson (196-G/F-93) answered with 16 points for Sweden. Viktor Gaddefors (203-SF-92), Tobias Borg (183-PG-93) and Fredrik Andersson (198-G/F-93) notched 8 points each in the loss.

Montenegro U20: Marko Mugosa 23, Danilo Nikolic 22, Vukota Pavic 11
Sweden U20: Marcus Eriksson 16, Viktor Gaddefors 8, Tobias Borg 8, Fredrik Andersson 8


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  NBA   


Raymond Felton: 'I'm better than Jeremy' - by Eurobasket News

Raymond Felton (6'5''-PG-84, college: N.Carolina) respects what Jeremy Lin (6'3''-PG-88, college: Harvard) did playing point guard for the Knicks last season. Felton just thinks hes the better man for the job.

'I am a competitor. I am a point guard just like he is, so do I think I am better? Of course, I am going to say that', Felton said in a television interview during the Knicks summer league teams 94-92 loss to the Raptors yesterday in Las Vegas. 'I think I am better than any point guard. Thats the way I am supposed to think.'

But at the same time, its nothing personal between me and Jeremy. But people are going to make it about that, [and] I am fine with that.

Felton signed with the Knicks two summers ago. He averaged 17.1 points and 9.0 assists while running the point for the Knicks before being sent to Denver as part of the Carmelo Anthony trade in February 2011.

He admitted getting traded away from the Knicks, where he developed a chemistry with Amare Stoudemire playing under Mike DAntoni, stuck with him.

'I wasn't upset with anybody [but] I was having my best year, and a great time in New York', Felton said. 'I didn't want to leave.'

Since leaving, Felton hasnt been the same. After finishing the 2011 season with Denver, he was dealt again before last season to Portland, where he slumped to a career-low 11.4 points to go along with 6.5 assists and admitted showing up to camp out of shape.

I wasnt at the weight I normally [am], Felton said. I am the first one to say, I wasnt in shape. I dont make no excuses, I dont blame anyone else.

I am hearing from everybody, He wasnt in shape last year. I played in the league seven years, about to be eight, came in out of shape one year and thats all everybody wants to talk about. I look forward to this year and shutting up everybodys mouth.

One person happy to see Felton return is Stoudemire, who had an MVP-level first half of the 2010-11 season playing alongside Felton before Anthony arrived with Chauncey Billups in the trade.

Awesome, awesome acquisition of Raymond, Stoudemire said. Hes a phenomenal player. Hes one of those guys that you know is gonna bring his A game, play extremely hard on both ends of the court, and hes ready to win.

Felton didnt waste any time setting expectations for his second run with the Knicks, saying they are capable of beating anyone including the Heat.

Good enough for the Finals, Felton said. This is a contending team without a doubt.

The thing I am excited about is I have so many options [Anthony] at one end, J.R. Smith on the other, Amare on the screen-and-roll or on the elbow, Tyson [Chandler] at the rim. Theres so many things you can work with.

Courtesy of www.nypost.com


Clippers, Ryan Hollins agree to a deal - by Eurobasket News

The Clippers and free-agent center Ryan Hollins (6'11''-C-84, college: UCLA) agreed to a one-year deal on Thursday.

Hollins is expected to sign a one-year contract for the veteran minimum of $1.065 million.

Ryan is happy to be a Clipper, Hollins agent, Todd Ramasar, said. Hes happy to be back in L.A. and hes looking forward to helping the Clippers.

Hollins, a seven-foot center who attended UCLA, played for the Cleveland Cavaliers and Boston Celtics last season.

He averaged 3.4 points and 2.1 rebounds in 13.4 minutes.

Hollins is expected to be the fourth big man for the Clippers, playing behind starters Blake Griffin and DeAndre Jordan and reserve Lamar Odom.

Courtesy of www.foxsportswest.com


Kendrick Perkins undergoes successful wrist surgery - by Eurobasket News

The team announced Thursday that Kendrick Perkins (6'10''-C-84) underwent a successful procedure on his left wrist to repair a torn ligament. The injury happened during the Western Conference Finals.

This is the second surgery Perkins has had this offseason with him undergoing a procedure to repair a partially torn groin earlier in the summer.

Perkins will be ready for the beginning of training camp for the 2012-13 season. Before the OC Thunder, Perkins played for the Boston Celtics.

Courtesy of www.dailythunder.com


Dallas Mavericks announce signing of guard O.J. Mayo - by Eurobasket News

The Dallas Mavericks have announced the signing of O.J. Mayo (6'5''-G-87, college: USC) three days after the free agent shooting guard posted a message on his Twitter account that he was joining the team.

In a statement released Thursday the Mavericks said they weren't disclosing the terms of the deal with the 6-foot-4, 210-pound West Virginian.

Mayo averaged 15.2 points in 301 games over the past four seasons with the Memphis Grizzlies. He was the third overall pick in the 2008 draft by Minnesota. Soon after that they traded him to Memphis in a seven-player deal.

Courtesy of Yahoo! Sports


Las Vegas Summer League: Day 7 recap - by Eurobasket News

Day 7 of the Las Vegas Summer League is in the books, and were going to take another look at some of the studs and duds for the day. Here they are for Thursday, July 19:


Studs

Damian Lillard (6'2''-PG-90, college: Weber St.), Portland Trail Blazers Clearly the star of the day, Lillard dropped 31 points on 11-for-22 shooting from the field, but the highlight of his day was a nasty dunk on Atlantas Keith Benson. That got the Cox Pavilion crowd pretty excited about the proceedings, and Lillards fine performancewhich included 7 assistshelped fuel the Blazers to an 84-78 win. Fellow rookie Meyers Leonard chipped in 9 points and 13 rebounds, as well, looking strong in the post and very good on the offensive glass.

Thomas Robinson (6'9''-PF-91, college: Kansas), Sacramento Kings Considering Robinson made the Duds list for Day 6, it was nice to see him turn it around with 15 points and 16 boards on Thursday. He got some easy shots around the basket, but still only shot 6-for-14, which is a little disconcerting considering the competition. He was a double-double machine in college, and this was a nice step in seeing some of that ability translate over in his transition to the NBA, though it would be nice to see those flashes with a little more consistency.

Derrick Williams (6'8''-F-91, college: Arizona), Minnesota Timberwolves While Williams didnt shoot great from the field (6-for-14), he did score a game-high 23 points, including a ridiculous 11 free throws. Williams says hes down to 233 pounds (and still losing weight) thanks to his having trained with the same trainer who slimmed down Kevin Love, and thats obviously had a positive impact on his game. The way he dunked the ball today, hes definitely feeling lighter on his feet than last season.

Christian Eyenga (6'7''-G-89), L.A. Lakers He dunked, he hit shots, and he pushed his team to a win in this last Summer League game for the Lakers this year. Thats a good game for the wildly athletic Christian Eyenga, who scored 22 points on 10-for-15 shooting from the field. He looked great, and with play like that he could get some more burn with the Lakers second unit this year.

Tobias Harris (6'8''-F-92, college: Tennessee), Milwaukee Bucks Tobias Harris put in a heck of a game, scoring 21 points and grabbing 12 rebounds, but let the record show that it did come against the D-League Select team. Still, that stat line was one of the best of the day, and combined with John Hensons 15 points and 8 boards, the Bucks frontcourt had a pretty good night.


Duds

Terrence Ross (6'6''-G-91, college: Washington), Toronto Raptors Ross has had his shining moments in Summer League so far, but his game against the Knicks on Thursday wasnt one of them. He played only 17 minutes in the Raps final game of the week, but in that time he shot only 2-for-8 for a measly 5 points. At least his team won, thanks in large part to Ben Uzohs team-high 16 points.

Fabricio Melo (7'0''-C-90, college: Syracuse), Boston Celtics To be fair, Melo left the game in the third quarter after injuring his hand on Thomas Robinson during a strong post move by the Sacramento rookie, but his 13 minutes of playing time were not productive, as he didnt score at all and really only showed up in the score book with a block, a foul, and a few rebounds.

Hilton Armstrong (6'10''-C/F-84, college: Connecticut), L.A. Clippers The Clippers signing Ryan Hollins didnt boost Armstrongs chances of getting a spot on the team, but Hilton really didnt help his case on Thursday by putting up a 4-point, 6-rebound effort for L.A.s Summer League team. He played all last season with a team in France after spending his first several years of professional ball with NBA teams, and with numbers like that its going to be hard to convince teams to get him back into the league.

Check back tomorrow for plenty more of the latest from Summer League. Just because the week is winding down doesnt mean were done keeping you on top of everything thats going on out there. There are plenty of more studs and duds to come.

CLICK HERE FOR GAME RESULTS AND STATS.

Courtesy of www.hoopsworld.com


Bucks discussing 6-year Bradley Center lease - by Eurobasket News

The BMO Harris Bradley Center board of directors and the Milwaukee Bucks have been discussing a new six-year lease that, if approved by the National Basketball Association, will provide stability for both sides as discussion continues over the possibility of a new, multi-purpose arena.

Details of the lease were not released. Information on an extended lease came from the minutes of the BMO Harris Bradley Center's March meeting, which were released this week.

If approved by the NBA, a six-year lease would be, by far, the longest lease the two sides have had in years. In general, the Bucks and the BMO Harris Bradley Center have gone year-to-year on leases.

Assuming the NBA signs off on the lease, the agreement is more good news for the financially strapped arena. In late May, representatives of the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce, the Bradley Center, the Milwaukee Bucks and BMO Harris Bank announced a naming-rights deal.

Coupled with new financial sponsorship commitments from some of Milwaukee's biggest corporations, including Harley-Davidson, Kohl's, Northwestern Mutual and Rockwell Automation, BMO Harris Bradley Center officials estimated the new revenue would total more than $18 million over six years.

It is notable that the lease and financial commitments are both for six years. That seems to be the time frame BMO Harris Bradley Center officials, the MMAC and U.S. Sen. Herb Kohl (D-Wis.), the owner of the Bucks, have concluded is needed to start planning for a new arena.

As of last November, the BMO Harris Bradley Center owed the Bucks $9.5 million, but those payments were extended out to as late as 2019.

In previous years, the Bucks have paid no rent at the arena and received 27.5% of total gross receipts from concessions, other than programs and merchandise, at all arena events. The franchise also received 13.75% of gross revenue from food and beverages sold in suites and 30% of merchandise sales at Bucks home games. It could not be determined whether those agreements are still in place.

The Bucks are the BMO Harris Bradley Center's main tenant and generate as much as 40% of all revenue.

Courtesy of The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel‎


Agent: Howard won't ink extension, will test FA - by Eurobasket News

The agent for Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard (6'11''-C-85) refuted reports that his client has decided he will sign an extension with the Los Angeles Lakers -- if traded to them.

"Dwight's position has remained unchanged since the end of this past season," said Dan Fegan of LaGardere Unlimited. "He fully intends to explore free agency at the end of next season, regardless of what team trades for him, including Brooklyn."

A source said the Nets never insisted Howard commit to an extension as a prerequisite for acquiring him, which Nets president Billy King confirmed in a text message.

Howard told the Magic, according to GM Rob Hennigan, he would like to be traded to the Brooklyn Nets above any other team. The Nets made concerted efforts to strike a deal for Howard earlier this month, but were forced to stop when the Charlotte Bobcats threatened to sign their restricted free agent center, Brook Lopez, to an offer sheet.

Lopez was expected to be a key part of any deal with the Magic and signing an offer sheet could have preempted including him in any deal, depending on the terms of the offer sheet. The Nets then signed Lopez to a four-year, $61 million deal.

Since then, the Lakers have become the primary suitor for Howard, recruiting both the Houston Rockets and Cleveland Cavaliers as potential third-team participants to deliver the salary relief, draft picks and young talent that Orlando is seeking in return for their All-Star center.

The longest Howard could sign an extension, according to ESPN Insider's Larry Coon, would be two years if he signed with Orlando and was traded, or three years if he signed after being traded.

If he waits until his current deal expires, Howard would be eligible to sign a new five-year deal for as much as $108 million.

Courtesy of ESPN


Celtics acquire Courtney Lee, send four packing - by Eurobasket News

It took awhile and a couple of false starts, but the Celtics got their man last night, acquiring Courtney Lee (6'5''-G/F-85, college: W.Kentucky) from Houston in a sign and trade for JaJuan Johnson (6'10''-F-89, college: Purdue), E'Twaun Moore (6'4''-G-89, agency: Priority Sports, college: Purdue),, Sean Williams (6'10''-F-86, college: Boston Coll.), Sasha Pavlovic (6'7''-F/G-83) and a second-round draft pick. The paperwork is expected to be finalized today.

The deal originally had Phoenix and New Orleans as facilitators, but that came apart late yesterday afternoon Pacific time. Late last night, Portland became the third team and Pavlovic was included. The amended details were still being learned as the Heralds final print deadline passed, but the Celts will clearly be ecstatic to acquire the coveted 6-foot-5 Lee without disturbing their main rotation.

Johnson, Moore and Williams skipped the 91-82 loss to Sacramento, leaving the Celtic entry with nine players in uniform. Moore and Williams arrived at Thomas and Mack Center prepared to play when they were told of the situation. Each spoke with coach Doc Rivers and president of basketball operations Danny Ainge before leaving the arena.

The transaction appeared to hit a snag during the afternoon, but both sides said it was back on track later in the day. Sources told the Herald there were still moving parts and that other teams had been involved at different points.

Because the move is a sign and trade, Lee will be able to get right around the $5 million midlevel exception the club used on Jason Terry. The Cs had been trying to make the Terry deal a sign and trade to keep the slot open for Lee, but it appears they have found another way to get him the money he was seeking as a free agent.

Before the game, Ainge wouldnt confirm or deny reports of the trade, but he again spoke well of Lee, who became an unrestricted free agent when the Rockets did not make him a qualifying offer.

We think Courtneys a good fit for us, yeah, said Ainge. Hes a good player. Hes a both ends of the court player. He can shoot, can defend and he runs. Good fit for us.

Rivers also declined to discuss deal specifics, saying, I cant talk or say anything.

But he essentially referred to the move when he said, I think our summers been good. At the end of the day, if we get everything we want, I think we would have had a great summer.

Lee will almost certainly begin the season as the starting two-guard alongside Rajon Rondo [stats]. With Avery Bradley recovering from shoulder surgery and Ray Allen having skipped town for Miami, the Celts had a critical need for a guard with size.

Speaking of the Allen loss, Rivers said, You dont have to replace the player with the same type of player. You can get a different type of player, and thats what were trying to do.

Courtesy of http://news.bostonherald.com


Jeremy Lin excited to join the Rockets as Houston owner says team made a mistake releasing him last season - by Eurobasket News

The red background, the No. 7 Rockets jersey, the photo of Jeremy Lin (6'3''-PG-88, college: Harvard) dribbling up the court in a Houston uniform all seemed strange.

Linsanity officially arrived in Houston on Thursday, but the scene at the Rockets practice facility was a startling one even to Lin himself.

Just two days into his Houston tenure, the former Knick sensation admitted he thought this kind of press conference was going to take place in New York.

Before July 1, I had no idea what teams were interested in me, Lin said on Thursday. All I was hearing was, Youre going back to New York.

At the time, yes, I did prefer New York, Lin said. And then with the way free agency happened, by the time it came to the offer sheet, I was just excited about both opportunities.

Houston initially sent Lin a four-year contract offer worth a reported $28 million. According to GM Daryl Morey, the Rockets restructured Lins deal to the three-year, $25.1 million poison pill offer after Houston lost point guard Goran Dragic to free agency and traded point guard Kyle Lowry.

In so many words, Morey admitted that the offer was made to push the Knicks out of the Lin sweepstakes.

Our goal when we signed him was to get him, Morey said. We got more aggressive when Lowry and Dragic werent here. It was nothing more than trying to get the player. We did everything we could to get Jeremy.

Rockets owner Leslie Alexander, an NYU graduate from New Jersey, was a little more forward in saying that Houston knew the Knicks could not compete with the Rockets offer. With Lin standing to make $14.9 million in 2014-2015, the Knicks could have faced a luxury-tax penalty of almost $50 million.

Paying Carmelo Anthony, Amare Stoudemire and Tyson Chandler maximum deals in 2014-2015 is enough. Houstons back-loaded deal effectively blocked the Knicks from renewing Linsanity, according to Alexander.

I didnt think the Knicks were going to match, Alexander said. I dont think the press adequately portrayed the cost to the Knicks if they matched the offer.

Houstons offer did not go without criticism, and a lot of the disapproval came from Lins former teammates in New York. Anthony called Houstons offer ridiculous, and J.R. Smith stated that re-signing Lin to such a pact could ruffle the relationship the guard had with his more experienced Knick teammates.

Lin said he never felt alienated by Anthony, Smith or any other Knick. He said he has spoken to almost every former Knick teammate since the signing and has received nothing but well wishes.

I love Carmelo and J.R., Lin said. Ive never had any issues with them. I just know my relationship with them, and they have been very supportive. They were great teammates last year.

To Alexander and the Rockets, their box-out of the Knicks in the Lin sweepstakes was also a chance at redemption. Houston cut Lin less than two weeks after claiming him off waivers in December. On Christmas Day, minutes before the Knicks began the season against Boston, the Rockets called Lin in his hotel room while he was with his family and set in motion the move that highlighted the Knicks crazy season.

Throughout Thursdays press conference, Houston management talked of how big of a mistake that was. Alexander and the Rockets watched as Lin succeeded in New York. Now, the Rockets plan on making him the showcase of their young squad.

I made a mistake the first time, Alexander said. (Morey) said we were going to release Jeremy. He said he was a very good third guard, and someday could be a good second guard, and I should have done a little more homework.

Courtesy of www.nydailynews.com


NBA Board approves video replay, uniform changes - by Eurobasket News

The NBA Board of Governors approved a new look for uniforms and a couple of changes in the use of video replay.

Commissioner David Stern met with the media Thursday after the Board of Governors held their annual summer meeting.

He said the league is looking to add possibly $100 million in revenue by permitting small advertising patches on uniforms starting in the 2013-14 season.

"The view is, that the teams would need a significant time; one, to sell the patch; and number two, for Adidas to manufacture the uniforms, because the patch that would be on the players' uniforms would also appear on the jerseys at retail," said Deputy Commissioner Adam Silver, who is handling the uniform change.

Silver said there are revenue projections from European soccer teams that the NBA could use.

The competition committee altered a few rule changes with respect to the use of video replay, primarily in the final 2 minutes or overtime of games.

At any point in the game, officials can now check video replay on all flagrant fouls.

"So the call is flagrant foul and then you go the tape, and you decide whether it's a 1 or a 2, or in some rare instance, maybe even a common foul," Stern said.

Officials can now use video replay in the final two minutes or overtime to decide whether a defender was in or out of the restricted area around the basket on charge and blocking fouls. Replay can also be used for goaltending calls in the late stages games as well.

In September, the competition committee will look at flopping and fouls away from the ball.

Stern said that under the Collective Bargaining Agreement and the implementation of revenue sharing that profitable numbers are "optimistic."

He said the proposed sale of the Memphis Grizzlies is proceeding on pace and the league hopes to approve it in the next couple of months. The league approved the sale of the Ontario Teachers Pension Plan's ownership interest in the Toronto Raptors to Bell Canada and Rogers Communications.

Stern said there are more positives with the league, including the successful summer league held in Las Vegas.

"We had a happy group of owners," Stern said. "Our ratings are up 28 percent over the last decade, while television ratings are down around 30 percent the last decade. We are going to have our best year ever, both in gate and sponsorship this coming year."

Courtesy of www.usatoday.com


Brooklyn Nets sign G Keith Bogans - by Eurobasket News

The Brooklyn Nets have re-signed guard Keith Bogans (6'5''-G-80, college: Kentucky).

General manager Billy King announced the deal Thursday without disclosing contract terms.

Bogans was signed midway through the season and appeared in five games before breaking his left ankle in a game against Detroit on Feb. 8. The nine-year veteran played the previous season with the Chicago Bulls.

Originally drafted by Milwaukee in 2003, Bogans began his career in Orlando, before moving on to Charlotte, Houston, Orlando again, Milwaukee, San Antonio and Chicago.

Courtesy of www.sfgate.com


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


Scorers1st Las Vegas Pro Showcase 2012 Top Performer Player Breakdown - by Daniel Poerschke

45 players participated in last weekends showcase in Las Vegas in the MPE gym on the UNLV campus. More then 30 pro teams from around the globe (Germany, Austria, Netherlands, Finland, Japan, Taiwan, Luxemburg, Mexico, etc) were in attendance to check out the action.


# 13 Larry Gordon (196-F-87, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Cal Poly Pomona), 6'6, SF/SG
Three year European first level veteran. Was the MVP of this showcase. Can do it all. Has the pro body. Can handle the ball and attacks from the wing. Scores well from the three-point line and can defend multiple positions.

# 28 Anthony Johnson, 6'7, SF
Played at East Tennessee State (NCAA 1) and NAIA powerhouse Azusa Pacific last season. Anthony is a true scorer. He can put the ball in the basket with ease from the wing or through penetration. His body is build like a pro. Very athletic and also a good outside shooter. Looked confident with and without the ball in his hands throughout the three-day tournament. Possesses leadership qualities and can defend multiple positions.

# 33 Joshua Lockett, 6'8, PF
Josh will apply for a german passport now, as his mother is a german citizen. The big and strong PF played for NAIA powerhouse Georgetown in Kentucky. He is strong in the low post and knows how to finish around the rim. Has outside range up to the three-point line, although his strength is under the basket. Decent rebounder and defender. With his german passport Josh will be a valuable addition to any german BBL or European team, which can use Bosman players.

# 38 Patrick Mitchell, 6'8, SF
Sharp-shooting tall forward. Patrick can play inside and outside. He can really shoot the basketball from outside. He played all four years at NCAA 1 North Dakota. Will drive also to the basket and finish around the rim with an athletic drive. Patrick rebounds the ball well for a player his size.

# 21 Mahlon Thomas, 6'6, SF/PF
Thomas played at NCAA 3 Wisconsin-Stout. After taking some time off after high school, Thomas decided to get a degree and play close to home. He was one of the biggest surprises of the showcase, as nobody expected anything from him, but he really played strong and athletic. Made the successful transition from a strictly inside player in college to a rim attacking wing player as a pro.

# 11 Travis Clark, 6'4, PF
Did his usual unspectacular double-double work under the basket. Will play for the german Pro B team Wolfenbuettel next season.

# 7 Chase Adams, 5'9, PG
Was the best guard at the showcase. Has already two years in Germany under his belt, spend the last season with Jena in the Pro A. Very quick, can jump higher the most taller players. Knows how to control and lead the game. Scorer, playmaker, defender, he can do everything.

# 16 Marcus Coleman, 6'8, SF
Scoring machine from NCAA 2 School Washington Adventist. Very athletic wing athlete. Sometimes was unstoppable with the ball in his hands. Marcus can match anybodys athleticism with his long arms, strong legs and versatility. Was a consistent shooter from outside also

# 18 Brandon Richardson, 6'1, PG/SG
Brandon Richardson showed that he is comfortable playing both guard spots on offense and on defense. Started at NCAA 1 Nebraska in the Big 10 conference. Athletic, goes hard to the rim, can shoot from outside and is quick enough to defend players at three positions.

# 32 Blake Poole, 6'5, PF
Mr. Double-Double came fresh from his IBL championship with the Bellingham Slam. Was the second most efficient player in the whole german Pro B league last season. Will play again in that league next season.

# 29 Darrell Bullock, 6'2, PG
Returning Scorers1st Showcase participant, who was the breakthrough player in 2010. Has two years of pro experience in Germany on his resume already. Can play with anybody. Likes to split screens in pick and roll situations. Strong drive to the basket, great court vision, but needs to work on his outside shot.

# 37 David Lane, 6'1, PG
Big Time scorer. Aggressive guard, who plays with a high motor. Can change the pace and also play an organized game as a playmaker. He is the guy who should have his hands on the ball in last minute situations. Can shoot from deep.

# 50 Justin Manns, 6'10, PF
Big body kid out of NCAA 1 Kent State. Very athletic and aggressive under the basket. He threw down some nasty dunks after putbacks or easy dishes from his guards. Has long arms and takes away a lot of area on the defensive end.

Honorable Mention:

# 3 Jermele Jenkins, 5'11, PG
NCAA 1 experienced floor leader out of Iona University. Can run a team and score with everybody. Can defend full court to put lots of pressure at the opposing guard.

# 49 Jake Reinders, 6'9, PF/SF
Solid contributor from NCAA 2 school Northwest Missouri State. Can shoot from outside. Good shot-blocker and rebounder, although he is more outside oriented. His future position will be the SF spot.

# 6 Marcus Hill, 5'9, PG
NBA D-League experienced small guard, who can run a team. Showed flashes of good playmaking and scoring. Definitely a player to watch out for in the future.

# 47 Robert Curtis, 6'9, PF
Robert is a big body in the lane. Left-handed Power Forward from Wayland Baptist University (NAIA). Robert was active under the basket and has good hands catching the basketball and finishing close to the hoop. He has range out to the middle-distance. He can score with his right hand also and has a short hook shot, which he used in a couple of possessions during the games.

# 48 Zach Warner, 6'9, PF
The NCAA 2 All-Star from Christian Brothers University struggled at the beginning of the showcase, but found his rhythm over the course of the three days. Can score inside and outside. Surprisingly good shot-blocker. Needs to put on more weight and strength.

# 45 Jabari Edwards, 6'10, PF
The big man from NCAA 1 George Washington helped his team with his low post presence, shot-blocking and rebounding. Was hampered by a little knee injury, but played through it.

# 53 Al Rapier, 6'8, SF/PF
Slasher from NCAA 1 Stony Brook, who improved from game to game. Showed a nice hoop-attacking game and good ball handling skills, even under pressure. Good rebounder and defender. Needs to work on his outside shooting game.

# 36 Nat Lester, 6'6, Hofstra
The athletic wing had to miss the third day, as he was hit in the mouth in a game on Saturday. Versatile athlete, good defender.

# 46 Brandon Hassell, 6'10, PF
Experienced big man out of NCAA 1 Penn State. Bounced around the past few years in the US minor leagues, but his now ready to enter the European leagues. Can shoot from outside, knows how to score in the paint and has a pro ready body.





For more stats, videos and recaps go to: http://scorers1stshowcase.wordpress.com/




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


Breakers ponder their options - by Mike Lacey

With the recent signing of Will Hudson, the Sky City New Zealand Breakers have just two spots left to fill for their 2012-13 Australian NBL campaign. Looking for a threepeat, the club are mulling over their options. Last seasons star point guard, American Cedric Jackson is currently trying out at the NBA summer camps and may be wooed by one of the powerful European leagues but still remains firmly on the Breakers radar. If not Jackson, the spot will be filled by an American import.
The backup point guard position will go to a New Zealand player, the choice to be made between Josh Bloxham, Jarrod Kenny and Corey Webster (185-G-88, college: Lambuth).
Bloxham and Kenny both had solid seasons with their respective New Zealand NBL teams, Nelson Giants and Hawks Bay and both were members of the recent Tall Blacks team that contested the Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Venezuela. The signing of Will Hudson may have thrown Webster a lifeline. Under the player points cap situation Hudson is rated just a 9 points player rather than the 10 that would have been afforded a higher rated American. This additional point they have to play with enables the Breakers to consider Webster, a situation that appeared unlikely just a couple of weeks ago. Although his twelve months suspension does not finish until September, Webster by all accounts has been training well under the watchful eye of former Australian coach Brian Goorjian at Dongguan Leopards in China.

The club is also going through the process of selecting their Development Players for the upcoming season. Should he not be offered a full contract, Josh Bloxham would likely be offered a spot. Morgan Natanahira after a stand out season with Hawks Bay seemed a certainty but unfortunately suffered an ACL injury in the semi final of the New Zealand NBL competition. Unlikely to be back on the playing court until the end of the year his selection may be in doubt,
New Zealand NBL Rookie of the Year Reuben Te Rangi shapes as another strong candidate. The swingman had an outstanding season with the Harbour Heat and having been part of the Breakers development pathway for a number of seasons could well be given an opportunity. Westlake High School pupil Tai Webster was the surprise packet of the recent Tall Blacks team. His inclusion may well be dependent on future American College aspirations.
17 year old Rosmini College student Tohi Smith-Milner is another candidate. The powerfully built forward is held in high regard by the Breakers coaching staff.
With a shortage of pure shooting guards in New Zealand there may be a place for the likes of Brooke Ruscoe (Auckland Pirates) or Marco Alexander (Harbour Heat).
It is unclear if the Breakers will be selecting three or four Development players but whatever the number they will be well served by any of the previously mentioned athletes.



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


"We will have same approach in London - Dagunduro - by Olusegun Ikuesan

"We will have same approach in London - Dagunduro



Two weeks have passed since Ade Dagunduro calmly converted two free-throws with less than five seconds remaining to help his Nigeria team upset Greece 80-79 in the Quarter-Finals of the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament (OQT).

The result against the No. 4 team in the FIBA Rankings was a real shock, and praise from all over was showered on the Africans.

Now Dagunduro is trying to get over one of the most famous moments in his country's sporting history and focus on the Olympics.

The 26-year-old averaged 10 points per game in Caracas and provide many a thrill, with transition buckets, three-pointers and great defense.

The plan is for the Nigerians to carry on with the same approach and determination at the London Games, where they will face Argentina, France, Lithuania, USA and Tunisia in Group-A.

Nigeria will make their Olympic debut against Afrobasket champions Tunisia on 29 July while on Day-3, they will square off against the USA.

After watching Team USA trounce Great Britain 118-78 from his hotel room in Guilford, near London, on Thursday night, he says of the Americans to FIBA.com: It is an extreme honour to play against a well coached and talented team, and we will keep playing as we have been playing so far."

Where Nigeria will finish at the Olympics is anybody's guess.

Dagunduro says he and his teammates will take it step-by-step and that right now, they just need to be focused and to put their game together.

It was sure together in Caracas, Venezuela.

Nigeria not only beat Greece but also stunned Lithuania.

Dagunduro says it's time to move, but that's very difficult.

He is about to play at the Olympics.

"I cant describe what I'm living right now," he says.

This is simply amazing.

That win against Greece was the biggest win in African basketball. This is a big thing for African basketball.

Being Nigerian

California-born, Dagunduro is one of nine players in the 12-man Nigeria team who grew up in the United Sates.

Tony Skinn, Ejike Ugboaja and Olumide Oyedeji were born in Nigeria, but played college basketball and professionally in the USA.

Critics say Nigeria are playing with American players rather than Nigerians.

"We are all of Nigeria descent and all of us have family in Nigeria," Dagunduro says.

"It makes no sense to say we are not Nigerians.

"We feel Nigerian, and we are proud to represent the country.

"Of course we have a real sense of the reality in Nigeria.

"When we are on court and think of our relatives back in Nigeria it gives us an extra boost to play for the country.

Future of the national team

Nigeria's national team is experiencing the highest moment in its basketball history.

They were able to put a talented team together and then qualified for their first Olympics.

Asked about his future with the national team, Dagunduro says he leaves it in Gods hands.

The reason for some missing players, he says, is because, sometimes we are stuck with contracts and family issues. Thats why it is difficult to put this team together regularly.

"I am not sure whether I will make it to the team (at Afrobasket 2013), but I would love to.

"There are more than 200 million people of Nigeria origin who could be picked for the team.

"In African basketball we are now in a very strong position as coach Bakare did a good job.

As the Nigeria team arrived in London on Tuesday, 17 July for the remainder of their preparations on the outskirts of London, Ekene Ibekwe and Tony Skinn are expected to join the team over the weekend.

Ibekwe, who just turned 27 on Thursday, 19 July, is showing his skills in the NBA Summer League with the Portland Trailblazers.

USA on Nigeria

Nigerias qualification to the Olympics has raised some eyebrows.

While in Manchester, England, Team USA head coach Mike Krzyzewski said to FIBA.com: African basketball has grown immensely. It has to do with how many young players have come to the United States.

"For Nigeria to get an Olympic bid, through that qualifier, was one of the amazing things for FIBA basketball to have two African nations among 12 teams.

"I havent seen Tunisia play. I saw Nigeria because we were watching the qualifier [Olympic Qualifying Tournament].

FIBA.com


*****************************************************
  NORWAY   


U16 European Championship: Portugal rolled over Norway in Day 2 - by Eurobasket News

Portugal U16-Norway U16 52:33

Portugal rolled over Norway in Day 2 of the U16 European Championship Division B in Romania. The Portuguese team celebrated a 52:33 win for 2-0 record in Group D.
It was a slow start for both teams. Portugal could not score for the first four minutes in the game and allowed the opponents to take 4-0 from the start. They closed however a quarter with a 7-0 run to take 11-10 advantage. Later Amiel scored four consecutive points to bring his team 25:16 at the halftime. Anders Nymo (177-PG-96) and Frey reduced to 27:24 midway through the third quarter, while Carlos Salamanca (187-G-97) was the last to score in the period for 32:24. Portugal needed a 20-9 burst in the last stanza to seal the victory.
Joao Oliveira (183-PG-96), Sergio da Silva (191-SG-96) and Carlos Salamanca paced all the winners with 10 points each. Sjur Berg (196-PF-96) collected 13 points and 11 rebounds in defeat, while Anders Nymo added 10.

Portugal U16: Joao Oliveira 10, Sergio da Silva 10, Carlos Salamanca 10
Norway U16: Sjur Berg 13+11 rebs, Anders Nymo 10


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


J.J. Montgomery is officially with KS Rosasport Radom - by Eurobasket News

J.J. Montgomery (196-G-82, college: Arkansas St.) is officially with KS Rosasport Radom for the upcoming season. The American Guard moves to his new team from AZS Koszalin.
Last season AZS Koszalin announced signing of J.J. Montgomery. In 2011/2012 season for AZS Koszalin (Poland-PLK, starting five) he averaged 12.7ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.0spg, FGP: 58.3%, 3PT: 32.0%, FT: 77.4%.
J.J. Montgomery headed to Koszalin from BK SPU Nitra. He appeared 44 times in Slovakian Extraliga last season averaging 14.8 points, 4.8 rebounds and 1.4 steals. He helped Nitra win the regular season and reach Playoff Finals after that. J.J. Montgomery was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Slovakian League Honorable Mention -11. Before Nitra, he played for Dallas Texas Hurricanes (TPBL). Season 2008/09, J.J. Montgomery spent with Ukrainian MBC Mykolaiv. In the past, he also was a member of Keravnos, JKKS Gornik Walbrzych, Makedonikos and Aenekosken Huima. He is a product of the Arkansas State University.


U16 European Championship: France stay perfect defeating Poland - by Eurobasket News

France U16 - Poland U16 65:54

France recorded the second straight win at the U16 European Championship. They held off Poland in Group D action. Antoine Wallez (202-PF-96) knocked down 18 points to lead the winners.
Poland led 14:5 midway through the opening frame. But France responded with a 21:0 run to grab a 26:14 lead midway through the second stanza. They established a 33:23 halftime lead. France maintained the advantage throughout the third quarter. Les Bleus posted a 50:38 lead at the final break. The margin grew at 20-point mark and France cruised to the victory at the end. Etienne Ory (175-PG-96) netted 12 points, while Lenny Charles-Catherine (194-G-96) added 8 points for the winning side. Filip Pruefer (208-C-96) answered with 12 points for Poland. Igor Wadowski (194-SG-96) had 9 points in the loss.

France U16: Antoine Wallez 18, Etienne Ory 12, Lenny Charles-Catherine 8
Poland U16: Filip Pruefer 12, Igor Wadowski 9


Trefl Sopot announces arrival of Przemyslaw Zamojski - by Eurobasket News

Trefl Sopot is very active on the transfer market these days. Their latest move is signing of 25-year-old shooting guard Przemyslaw Zamojski (194-SG-86, agency: Alti Sport, college: Independence CC) from Asseco Prokom Gdynia. The player had 9.9 ppg and 3.4 rpg in 14 PLK games last season. He missed 2010/11 due to injury and before that registered 5.1 ppg and 1.7 rpg for 15 PLK games in 2009/10 season. Zamojski also added 3.3 ppg for 9 Euroleague games that year. Przemyslaw Zamojski is a product of Prokom Trefl Sopot (now Asseco Prokom), where arrived as 20-year-old player. Before Prokom, he was a member of Independence Community College (JUCO D1). Zamojski won six PLK titles with Prokom and one Cup trophy. He is on the list of candidates for the Polish NT this summer. Zamojski was on the list of candidates also in 2009 and 2010.


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  PORTUGAL   


U16 European Championship: Portugal rolled over Norway in Day 2 - by Eurobasket News

Portugal U16-Norway U16 52:33

Portugal rolled over Norway in Day 2 of the U16 European Championship Division B in Romania. The Portuguese team celebrated a 52:33 win for 2-0 record in Group D.
It was a slow start for both teams. Portugal could not score for the first four minutes in the game and allowed the opponents to take 4-0 from the start. They closed however a quarter with a 7-0 run to take 11-10 advantage. Later Amiel scored four consecutive points to bring his team 25:16 at the halftime. Anders Nymo (177-PG-96) and Frey reduced to 27:24 midway through the third quarter, while Carlos Salamanca (187-G-97) was the last to score in the period for 32:24. Portugal needed a 20-9 burst in the last stanza to seal the victory.
Joao Oliveira (183-PG-96), Sergio da Silva (191-SG-96) and Carlos Salamanca paced all the winners with 10 points each. Sjur Berg (196-PF-96) collected 13 points and 11 rebounds in defeat, while Anders Nymo added 10.

Portugal U16: Joao Oliveira 10, Sergio da Silva 10, Carlos Salamanca 10
Norway U16: Sjur Berg 13+11 rebs, Anders Nymo 10


FC Porto leaves Portuguese League - by Luis Filipe Cristovao

FC Porto confirmed yesterday they are leaving the Portuguese Basketball League.

After last week rumours, Porto's Administration Board announced they won't have any Senior Team next season, leaving an empty place on Portuguese LPB.

Meanwhile, Moncho Lopez (agency: Interperformances ) was invited to keep working on the younger Porto Team's, specially their Under-20 and Under-18, which will continue working. The goal, as Porto's Board stated, is to comeback in the near future.

Now players are searching for a solution to keep playing. There's expectation that, in the next days, some teams will advance to sign Porto players, who will must probably be released of their contracts.



U20 European Championship: Portugal wins Group H despite the loss - by Eurobasket News

Portugal U20-Switzerland U20 42:52

Portugal wins Group H despite the loss from the Switzerland at the Classification Round for 9th to 18th Place in Division B of the U20 European Championship. The latter won 52:42 and finished fourth with 2-2 record.
Switzerland won the opening tip 4-0 and Brian Savoy (192-SG-92) later brought 11:3. Milos Bozovic (201-F-92) delivered two for 15:8 and Jeremy Landenbergue (182-PG-93) nailed three for 24:12. Switzerland added 19-15 in the second frame and led 30:19 at the halftime. Brian Savoy made another three free throws later in the third quarter for 35:26, while Miguel Cardoso (184-PG-93) closed the frame at 40:34. Portugal could not score for the first 7 minutes in the last stanza and allowed the opponents to take 43:34 advantage. Evrard Atcho (207-C/F-92) and Ventura scored the last points for their teams for the final result.
Brian Savoy paced all the winners with 16 points, while Evrard Atcho collected 13 points and 14 rebounds. Marko Mladjan (206-F-93), Jeremy Landenbergue and Milos Bozovic followed them with 6 points apiece. Joao Grosso (198-F-94) delivered 10 in defeat and Miguel Cardoso scored 7.

Portugal U20: Joao Grosso 10, Miguel Cardoso 7
Switzerland U20: Brian Savoy 16, Evrard Atcho 13+14 rebs, Marko Mladjan 6, Jeremy Landenbergue 6, Milos Bozovic 6


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  ROMANIA   


U16 European Championship: Montenegro successfully started the campaign - by Eurobasket News

Montenegro U16-Romania U16 66:53

Montenegro successfully started the campaign at the U16 European Championship in Division B. They handed the hosts of the tournament a 66:53 loss for 1-0 record. Romanian meanwhile fell at 0-2 record in Group C.
After the first loss in the opener, Romania started the game with 15-13. They tried hard in the second frame as well but could not keep the advantage. Montenegro scored some quick baskets for 22:16 lead and then Zoran Nikolic (202-C-96) closed the quarter at 30:27. Caius-Gabriel Covrig (179-PG-96) and Robert Tanasie (96) tied the game at 34:34, while Kuti brought the hosts 36:34 lead. Moreover Caius-Gabriel Covrig delivered two for 46:43 at the end of the third quarter. He gave his side 48:45 advantage, but Montenegro created a 15-0 run to seal the victory.
Petar Popovic (188-PG-96) led the way with 22 points and Aleksandar Dozic (199-F-96) collected 16 points and 10 rebounds. Zoran Nikolic added massive 15 points and 15 rebounds, while Novosel scored 6. Caius-Gabriel Covrig delivered 16 points in defeat, while Robert Tanasie had 12.

Montenegro U16: Petar Popovic 22, Aleksandar Dozic 16+10 rebs, Zoran Nikolic 15+15 rebs, Novosel 6
Romania U16: Caius-Gabriel Covrig 16, Robert Tanasie 12


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  RUSSIA   


U20 European Championship: Italy nip Russia in classification round - by Eurobasket News

Italy U20 - Russia U20 69:68

Italy overcame Russia in the classification round at U20 European Championship. Traini knocked down a free throw late in regulation to seal the victory for the Azzurri. Italy will now take on the winners of Ukraine vs. Turkey clash for the ninth overall position at the tournament.
Russia got to a flying start. They piled up a 24:13 lead after ten minutes. Russia boosted the margin in the second term. They established a 40:25 halftime lead. But Italy turned the tables in the second half. They held Russia to 7 points in the third frame to cut the deficit to just two points at the final break. Italy gained a 62:54 lead midway through the fourth frame. Russia recovered and tied things up after three-pointer from Denis Zakharov (193-PG-93). But Traini sank one free throw and clinched the victory for Italy. Amedeo Tessitori (205-C-94) posted 17 points, while Fabio Mian (196-F-92) had 13 points for the winners. Alexander Varnakov (185-PG-92) answered with 12 points for Russia. Denis Zakharov netted 10 points in the loss.

Italy U20: Amedeo Tessitori 17, Fabio Mian 13, Awudu Abass (196-G-93) 12
Russia U20: Alexander Varnakov 12, Denis Zakharov 10


U16 European Championship: Marc Garcia carries Spain past Russia - by Eurobasket News

Spain U16 - Russia U16 88:64

Spain earned the second consecutive win at the start of U16 European Championship. They outmuscled Russia for 2-0 record in Group B. Marc Garcia (194-F-96) accounted for 25 points to lead the winning side.
Russia enjoyed a 22:20 lead at the first break. Spain turned things around in the second frame. They fired 24 points to take an 8-point lead at halftime 44:36. Spain exploded with 26 points in the third quarter to boost the lead. They secured a 17-point buffer at the final intermission. Spain held Russia to just 11 points in the fourth frame and cruised to the victory at the end. David Martinez (203-F-96) had 10 points, while Sergi Garcia (184-PG-97) and Arnau Triguiner (196-PF-96) chipped in 9 points each for Spain. Aleksandr Zuev (193-PG-96) answered with 15 points for Russia. Mikhail Maleyko (203-PF-96) finished with 13 points in the loss.

Spain U16: Marc Garcia 25, David Martinez 10, Sergi Garcia 9, Arnau Triguiner 9
Russia U16: Aleksandr Zuev 15, Mikhail Maleyko 13


Triumph Lyubertsy returns Sergey Toporov after 3 years - by Eurobasket News

Sergey Toporov (197-F-81) is back to Triumph Lyubertsy, according to Sportando.net. The Russian forward played for the club from 2007 to 2009. He spent last season with Enisey Krasnoyarsk averaging 8.7 points and 3.8 rebounds for 17 Russian league games. He had almost the same numbers in EuroChallenge and VTB United League. Toporov joined Enisey a year ago from Lokomotiv Kuban. With the Kuban team he had about 5.5 ppg and 3 rpg in EuroChallenge and Russian league. Season 2009/10, the player spent with Khimky Moscow Region.
As mentioned above, Sergey Toporov played for Triumph Lyubertsy from 2007 to 2009 collecting about 9 ppg and 3 rpg in their second season together. In the past, the forward played for Lokomotiv Rostov na Donu (now Lokomotiv Kuban), Unics Kazan and Samara. In 2008, he was named to Eurobasket.com All-Russian A Superleague 2nd Team and Eurobasket.com Russian A Superleague All-Domestic Players Team.


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  SEBL   

Standings

SEBL Standings
North-A Division
 1. Marietta Fbr. 4-0 
 2. Marietta O. 3-1 
 3. Summer Hill 3-2 
 4. TN Temple 3-2 
 5. Skyline 3-2 
 6. Baseline 2-3 
 7. Gwinnett E. 1-4 
 8. BC Howren 0-5 
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 


Summer Hill beats veteran team BC Howren 84-58 - by Marcus Tate

Summer Hill shows resiliency after taking a tough loss in last weeks game vs. Marietta Outlaw. Summer Hill led by PG Sean Tate (5'8''-PG) and Devarick Houston (6'7''-F) started the game off strong showing ability to contain Darrell Wilkins (6'1''-G-84) and Mike Howren (6'5''-G, college: Berry) who are SEBL long time veterans. Offensively Cliff Cormier (6'4''-SG) scored a quick 8 points in the 1st quarter giving Summer Hill a small lead going into the 2nd quarter. With 8 minutes left in the 2nd, Summer Hill Malcolm Riley (6'4''-SG) single handedly took over the game nailing 3 straight 3-pointers and went to the line twice. Howrens Kevin Hammitt (6'6''-F, college: W.Georgia) carried the team on his back with 15 points and 4 rebounds in the first half. The night got worse for BC Howren as they were held to only 10 points in the 3rd quarter. Summer Hill wins 84-58 solidifying the 3 seed. Malcolm Riley is leading scorer with 19 points.


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  SERBIA   


Mega Vizura gets bigger with 222cm tall C Boban Marjanovic - by Eurobasket News

Mega Vizura announced signing of 222cm tall center Boban Marjanovic (222-C-88, agency: Beo Basket) for the next season. The player arrives to Mega Vizura from Radnicki Kragujevac, where he finished 2011/12. He joined them in January and averaged 6.1 points, plus 2.1 rebounds for 17 games in Serbian league. They reached Playoff Semifinals. Marjanovic added 5.2 ppg and 2.5 rpg for 6 Adriatic league games. He started the season with Nizhny Novgorod. Boban Marjanovic split 2010/11 season between CSKA Moscow and Zalgiris Kaunas. With Zalgiris he won the Latvian title and Cup. The player averaged 5.2 points and 3.5 rebounds for 6 Euroleague games. In the past, Marjanovic played for Hemofarm Vrsac. He also played for the Serbian National Team at 2011 Eurobasket in Lithuania and in Qualifications to European Championships 2009.


U20 European Championship: Serbia outscore Latvia to reach semis - by Eurobasket News

Serbia U20 - Latvia U20 74:65

Serbia will play in U20 European Championship semifinal. They overcame Latvian counterparts tonight to stay in the title race. The Balkan team will now take on another Baltic side Lithuania in the semifinal clash. Luka Mitrovic (204-F/C-93) accounted for 16 points and 10 rebounds to pace the winners.
Serbia started strongly. They held Latvia to 12 points in the first quarter posting a 6-point lead at the first break. The margin grew at 10-point mark early in the second quarter. But Latvia found the way to return into contest. Bremers even put the Latvian side in front 29:27. Nenad Miljenovic (194-G-93, agency: Beo Basket) capped the first half with two free throws to draw things level at 29. Vitols, Helmanis and Janis Timma (201-F/G-92, agency: FCM) put Latvia ahead by 7 points early in the second half 38:31. But Serbia answered right back to ensure a narrow 51:49 lead at the final intermission. Bogdan Bogdanovic (197-F-92) hit a triple to ignite a 13:0 run midway through the fourth frame as Serbia cleared off for good in this one. Nenad Miljenovic notched 14 points, while Bogdan Bogdanovic delivered 11 points for the winners. Janis Timma responded with 16 points for Latvia. Arturs Bricis (196-SG-92) had 15 points in the losing case.

Serbia U20: Luka Mitrovic 16+10 boards, Nenad Miljenovic 14, Bogdan Bogdanovic 11
Latvia U20: Janis Timma 16, Arturs Bricis 15


U16 European Championship: Serbia post first win - by Eurobasket News

Serbia U16 - Lithuania U16 70:64

Serbia recorded the initial win at the U16 European Championship. They prevailed against Lithuania to improve at 1-1 record in Group C. Jovan Starincevic (188-PG-96) came up with 28 points for the winners.
Lithuania looked better at the start of the game. The Baltic side built a 19:12 lead ten minutes into the game. Serbia however denied the deficit in the second term. The Balkan team tied things up at 34 after twenty minutes. Serbia finally pulled ahead in the third term. They held Lithuania to 14 points to take a 7-point lead into the fourth quarter. Domantas Sabonis (199-PF-96) put Lithuania within two midway through the period but Serbia stayed calm and executed a confident win at the end. Nikola Pavlovic (199-PF-96) accounted for 12 points, while Vasilije Vucetic (206-PF-96) added 10 points in the victory. Deividas Zemgulis (194-PF-96) notched 11 points for Lithuania. Domantas Sabonis had 9 points and 13 rebounds in the loss.

Serbia U16: Jovan Starincevic 28, Nikola Pavlovic 12, Vasilije Vucetic 10
Lithuania U16: Deividas Zemgulis 11, Domantas Sabonis 9


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  SLOVAKIA   


U16 European Championship: Slovak Republic beat Denmark to tie both records - by Eurobasket News

Denmark U16-Slovak Republic U16 61:64

Slovak Republic beat Denmark to tie both records at the U16 European Championship in Division B. Jozef Senohradsky (190-G-96) was perfect from the free throw line at the end of the game for 64:61 win. Both teams are with 1-1 record in Group B.
Slovak Republic took 18:14 lead after the first period and added defensive 10-8 in the second quarter. Benzon and Norbert Janicek (206-C-96) exchanged the baskets early in the third quarter as the board showed 30:24 for Slovakia. Adam Oremus (205-C-96) increased the lead to 10 points, while Gadeberg reduced to just 1 point at the end of the third period. Jakob Ravn (193-G-96) gave Denmark an expecting 58:57 win, but Jozef Senohradsky was perfect from the free throw line to give his team 64:61 victory.
Jozef Senohradsky top-scored for the winners with 16 points, while Norbert Janicek collected 14 points and 11 rebounds. Jakub Meress (200-PF-96) and Adam Oremus followed them with 8 points each in a win. Nicolai Andersen (201-C-96) replied with 13 points for Denmark, while Jakob Ravn and Alexander Von Spreckelsen (198-F-96) posted 10 poinst apiece.

Denmark U16: Nicolai Andersen 13, Jakob Ravn 10, Alexander Von Spreckelsen 10
Slovak Republic U16: Jozef Senohradsky 16, Norbert Janicek 14+11 rebs, Jakub Meress 8, Adam Oremus 8


U20 European Championship: Slovak Republic edged Netherlands in Sofia - by Eurobasket News

Netherlands U20- Slovak Republic U20 47:55

Slovak Republic edged Netherlands in Sofia in the last game for the Classification Round for 9th to 18th Place in Division B in U20 European Championship. The winning side finished second in Group G with 3-1 record, while Netherlands are third with 2-2 record.
Netherlands won the first period 13-10 and Ivan Filipan (193-G/F-92) nailed three for 16:12. Slovak Republic however needed to keep the opponents scoreless for the last 4 minutes in the second frame and grabbed 23:21 lead at the halftime. Slovak Republic added 13-11 in the third quarter and Jan Brutovsky (188-G-93) brought 36:32. Another 19-15 in the last quarter brought the final victory for Slovakia.
Jaroslav Moravek (204-F/C-92) top-scored for the winners with 13 points and 10 rebounds, while Viktor Dedecek (200-F-93) added 13. Jan Brutovsky delivered 11 and Matus Luley (195-F-92) notched 7. Joel Brandt (195-F-92) replied with 16 points in the losing effort and Ivan Filipan had 7.

Netherlands U20: Joel Brandt 16, Ivan Filipan 7
Slovak Republic U20: Jaroslav Moravek 13+10 rebs, Viktor Dedecek 13, Jan Brutovsky 11, Matus Luley 7


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  SLOVENIA   


Lastovka and Krka II promotes to League Two, Litija avoid relegation - by Zeljko Zule

Litija avoid relegation and Lastovka and Krka II were promoted to League Two to replace Medvode, Konjice and Jance, which where sent down for financial problems. Lastovka was runner-up of League Three and Krka II finished fourth.
2012-13 Slovenian League Two: Parklji, Sencur, Postojna Portoroz, Triglav, Branik, Podcetrtek, Hrastnik, Radenska, Litija, Crnomelj, Koper, Lastovka, Krka II.
2012-13 Slovenian League Three East: Konjice, Jance, Bistrica, Nazarje, Fenomeni, Vrani, Kamnik, Podbocje, Komenda, Celjski vitez, Krsko, Slovenj Gradec.
2012-13 Slovenian League Three West: Medvode, Plama Pur, Ajdovscina, Jesenice, Logatec, Jezica, Pingvini, Tolmin, Pivka, Globus, Sezna, Ivancna Gorica.


U20 European Championship: France shock Slovenia in quarterfinal - by Eurobasket News

Slovenia U20 - France U20 54:77

France advanced into U20 European Championship semifinals. They shocked hosting Slovenia handing those the first defeat at the tournament in the quarterfinal clash tonight. Leo Westermann (198-G-92, agency: Beo Basket) unleashed 21 points and issued 7 assists to lead Les Bleus.
Slovenia got to a confident start. They posted a 19:15 lead at the first intermission. The teams stayed close throughout the second quarter. The hosts accounted for a 32:28 halftime lead. But things took a wrong turn for the home team in the third quarter. Leo Westermann knocked down 9 points to ignite a 26:8 run from Les Bleus as they posted a 54:40 lead with ten minutes remaining. Leo Westermann helped France gain a 66:42 lead midway through the fourth quarter and France never looked back en route to the victory. Axel Toupane (200-G/F-92) netted 19 points, while Rudy Gobert (212-C-92) added 16 points and 12 rebounds for France. Klemen Prepelic (194-G-92) answered with 17 points for Slovenia. Gezim Morina (204-C/F-92) netted 11 points in the loss.

Slovenia U20: Klemen Prepelic 17, Gezim Morina 11
France U20: Leo Westermann 21, Axel Toupane 19, Rudy Gobert 16+12 boards


U16 European Championship: Germany earn second win in a row - by Eurobasket News

Germany U16 - Slovenia U16 69:50

Germany posted the second consecutive win at the start of U16 European Championship in Lithuania/Latvia. They knocked down Slovenian counterparts to improve at 2-0 record on top of Group C. Jan Wimberg (202-G-96) stepped up with 18 points and 11 rebounds to pace the winners. Slovenia fell at 0-2 record after the loss.
Germany strongly entered the encounter. They built a 24:14 lead ten minutes into the game. Germany boosted the gap in the second quarter. They piled up a 42:23 halftime lead. Slovenia tried to change the complexion of the game in the third quarter. They held German team to 11 points to narrow the margin to 14 points with one period remaining. But Germany responded adequately in the final frame to seal the comfortable win at the end. Sebastian Schmitt (180-PG-96), Constantin Ebert (180-PG-96) and Mahir Agva (202-C-96) finished with 8 points each for Germany. Grega Sajevic (183-SG-96) answered with 16 points for Slovenia. Sandi Grubelic (187-PG-96) netted 10 points in the loss.

Germany U16: Jan Wimberg 18+11 boards, Sebastian Schmitt 8, Constantin Ebert 8, Mahir Agva 8
Slovenia U16: Grega Sajevic 16, Sandi Grubelic 10


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


U20 European Championship: Spain ease past Germany - by Eurobasket News

Spain U20 - Germany U20 73:47

Spain will play in the U20 European Championship semifinals. Daniel Diez (203-F-93) scored 22 points and grabbed 11 rebounds to lead Spain past Germany. The reigning champions led from start to finish. They built a 13:8 lead ten minutes into the game. The margin grew throughout the second quarter. Spain ensured a 33:24 halftime lead. Spain did not slow down in the third quarter. The defending champions ensured a 14-point buffer heading into the fourth frame. Spain held Germany to 8 points in the final quarter and sealed the victory at the end. Alejandro Abrines (198-F-93) posted 13 points, while Jaime Fernandez (187-G-93) added 14 points for the winning side. Dennis Schroeder (185-PG-93) responded with 9 points for Germany. Philipp Neumann (210-C-92) and Daniel Theis (206-C/F-92) had 8 points each in the loss.

Spain U20: Daniel Diez 22+11 boards, Jaime Fernandez 14, Alejandro Abrines 13
Germany U20: Dennis Schroeder 9, Philipp Neumann 8, Daniel Theis 8


U16 European Championship: Marc Garcia carries Spain past Russia - by Eurobasket News

Spain U16 - Russia U16 88:64

Spain earned the second consecutive win at the start of U16 European Championship. They outmuscled Russia for 2-0 record in Group B. Marc Garcia (194-F-96) accounted for 25 points to lead the winning side.
Russia enjoyed a 22:20 lead at the first break. Spain turned things around in the second frame. They fired 24 points to take an 8-point lead at halftime 44:36. Spain exploded with 26 points in the third quarter to boost the lead. They secured a 17-point buffer at the final intermission. Spain held Russia to just 11 points in the fourth frame and cruised to the victory at the end. David Martinez (203-F-96) had 10 points, while Sergi Garcia (184-PG-97) and Arnau Triguiner (196-PF-96) chipped in 9 points each for Spain. Aleksandr Zuev (193-PG-96) answered with 15 points for Russia. Mikhail Maleyko (203-PF-96) finished with 13 points in the loss.

Spain U16: Marc Garcia 25, David Martinez 10, Sergi Garcia 9, Arnau Triguiner 9
Russia U16: Aleksandr Zuev 15, Mikhail Maleyko 13


Unicaja offers deal to Txemi Urtasun, Cajasol has 10 days to match - by Eurobasket News

Unicaja officially offered deal to Txemi Urtasun (193-G-84, agency: Interperformances) and Cajasol has 10 days to match it, if they want to keep the player. The deadline is July 20. Urtasun played last two seasons for Cajasol. He appeared 36 times in Liga Endesa 2011/12 averaging 10.6 points, 2.3 rebounds and 2 assists. He helped Cajasol to reach the Semifinals of Copa del Rey this year and also to reach the Playoff Semifinals. In their first season together Urtasun was close to reach the Euroleague with Cajasol. They played in the EuroCup Finals, but were able to win it. Urtasun collected 11.1 ppg in this competition and he also had 9.9 ppg in ACB. Txemi Urtasun played for Alicante from 2008 to 2010 winning the LEB Gold Playoffs with them in their first year together. Before Alicante, he spit 2007/08 season between Estudiantes and Leon. Urtasun also has experience from Bruesa, Breogan, Zaragoza and La Palma.


Melilla keeps Kiril Wachsmann, Andorra extends Devin Wright - by Eurobasket News

Melilla signed 1-year contract extension with Kiril Wachsmann (203-C/F-83, agency: Edge Sports, college: Iona). The power forward/center arrived to the club last summer from Alzacar. He had 5.6 ppg and 6.2 rpg in 48 LEB Gold games. He helped Melilla to reach the LEB Gold Finals. Wachsmann played for Alcazar from 2009 to 2011 (LEB Silver champions in 2010) and before that he spent two years with Tenerife Rural. He also played for La Palma in 2006/07. Wachsmann graduated at the University of Iona in 2006.
River Andorra kept Spanish PF/C Devin Wright (203-F/C-86) for the next season. He had 6.8 ppg and 5.3 rpg in 24 LEB Silver games. Wright also played fro Alcazar from 2009 to 2011. Before that, he was a member of Merida and Motril - Grupo Alaminos. In 2010 and this year as well Wright won the LEB Silver titles with Alcazar and Andorra, respectively.


Assignia Manresa signs 1+1 year deal with LEB Gold Guard of the Year - Salva Arco - by Eurobasket News

Assignia Manresa announced singing of 1+1 year deal with Jose Salvador Arco (194-G-85). He played for Melilla last season in LEB Gold. Arco appeared 47 times in the league collecting 14.4 ppg, 3 rpg and 2.9 apg. Melilla reached LEB Gold Finals and Arco was named Eurobasket.com All-Spanish LEB Gold Player of the Year -12. The player also picked up few other awards. Before Melilla, Jose Salvador Arco played two years for Ourense. In 2008/09, he was a member of Lleida and year before that Arco won the LEB Gold title with Bruesa. Of course, at the same time they also won the promotion to ACB. From 2003 to 2006, Jose Salvador Arco played for Lleida. They reached ULEB Cup Quarterfinals in 2004. In 2004/05, the player spent some time on loan with his last season's team Melilla.


Caja Laboral inks 2-year deal with PG Taylor Rochestie - by Eurobasket News

Taylor Rochestie (185-PG-85, college: Washington St.) will continue his career in Spain. The American PG, who got Montenegrin passport earlier this summer, penned a deal with Caja Laboral. He spent last season with Le Mans and was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-French ProA Bosman Player of the Year -12. The player was also named to Eurobasket.com All-French ProA 2nd Team -12. For 37 games in the league Rochestie registered 16.3 ppg, 64 apg and 3.4 rpg. In EuroCup, the player averaged 12.5 points, 4.4 assists and 3.6 rebounds for 8 games.
Taylor Rochestie is a product of the Washington State University, where he graduated in 2009. He had 13.2 ppg, 4.5 apg and 3.6 rpg for his school in 33 games as a senior. He first year as a pro Rochestie spent with the German squad MEG Goettingen. There he shined with 15.1 ppg, 3.2 apg and 2.8 rpg fro 38 games in 1.Bundesliga. He was third scorer of the competition. The player also was great in EuroChallenge collecting 14.7 ppg, 2.9 rpg and 2.7 apg. Season 2010/11, Taylor Rochestie split between Galatsaray and ALBA Berlin.


UCAM Murcia signs 4-year deal with young Miguel Servera - by Eurobasket News

UCAM Murcia made a move for the future. The Spanish squad signed a 4-year deal with young shooting guard Miguel Servera (198-SG-92), according to Murciatododeporte.com. Servera currently plays for the Spanish U20 National Team at U20 EuroBasket. He averages 3 points after 6 games. Servera played for U18 Spain two years ago at U18 EuroBasket in Vilnius. He had 5.6 ppg and 2.1 apg for 7 games at this event. They also competed at U18 EuroBasket in Metz in 2009. Servera successfully played for U16 Spain in the past.
Miguel Servera spent last season with Lobe Huesca registering 4.1 ppg, 1.9 rpg and 1.4 apg in 34 LEB Gold games. Before that, he spent one year with Menorca in ACB. There he had 2.6 ppg and 1 rpg for 25 games. Young Servera also played for Clinicas Rincon, Unicaja, Mallorca and Basquet Mallorquin.


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  SWEDEN   


U16 European Championship: Sweden jumps on top of Group A - by Eurobasket News

Israel U16-Sweden U16 52:65

Sweden jumps on top of Group A at the U16 European Championship in Division B. The Scandinavian team overcame Israel 65:52 in the first game of Day 2. Israel meanwhile just started the campaign and fell at 0-1 record.
Israel started the game with 11-8 lead and scored also 11 points in the second frame. It was not however enough to win the quarter as Sweden replied with 15 points for 23:22 advantage. Sweden added 23-10 in the third quarter and grabbed 46:32 after three quarters. Israel won the last stanza 20-19 but reduced to 13 points at the end.
Ludvig Hakanson (190-PG-96) was unstoppable with 29 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists, while Sheriff Drammeh (186-G-96) added 10. Erik Johansson (194-F-96) and William Skagius (200-PF-96) ended up with 8 points each, while the latter also added 10 rebounds. Netanel Artzi (196-F-97) finished the game with 13 points in defeat. Roi Huber (184-G-97) notched 11, whilst Tamir Blatt (178-PG-97) delivered 8.

Israel U16: Netanel Artzi 13, Roi Huber 11, Tamir Blatt 8
Sweden U16: Ludvig Hakanson 29+8 rebs+6 ast, Sheriff Drammeh 10, Erik Johansson 8, William Skagius 8+10 rebs


U20 European Championship: Montenegro thrash Sweden - by Eurobasket News

Montenegro U20 - Sweden U20 86:48

Montenegro clinched the second win at the U20 European Championship classification round. They overcame Sweden to improve at 2-2 record staying hopeful about remaining in Division A. Marko Mugosa (198-F-93) scored 23 points to pace the winners.
Montenegro thumped their opponents in the first half. The Balkan team built a 21:9 lead at the first break. They stayed on top throughout the second quarter. Montenegro built a 41:22 halftime advantage. The Balkan side exploded with 33 points in the third term to boost the lead to 39-point mark at the final intermission and cruised to the victory at the end. Danilo Nikolic (206-C-93) posted 22 points and 11 rebounds for Montenegro. Vukota Pavic (203-C-93) added 11 points in the victory. Marcus Eriksson (196-G/F-93) answered with 16 points for Sweden. Viktor Gaddefors (203-SF-92), Tobias Borg (183-PG-93) and Fredrik Andersson (198-G/F-93) notched 8 points each in the loss.

Montenegro U20: Marko Mugosa 23, Danilo Nikolic 22, Vukota Pavic 11
Sweden U20: Marcus Eriksson 16, Viktor Gaddefors 8, Tobias Borg 8, Fredrik Andersson 8


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  SWITZERLAND   


U16 European Championship: Switzerland beat Netherlands in Day 2 - by Eurobasket News

Switzerland U16-Netherlands U16 66:55

Switzerland beat Netherlands in Day 2 of the U16 European Championship Division B in Romania. The Swiss side produced a 66:55 victory for 2-0 record in Group D. The Dutch side meanwhile fell at 0-2.
Switzerland won the first period 13:11 and continued their push until the end of the game. They added 13-7 in the second quarter for 26:18 at the halftime. Yannick Franke (185-G-96) meanwhile scored 5 consecutive points for Netherlands and reduced to 26:25. Luka Mandic (195-F-96) and Owandji Otoka (185-SF-96) meanwhile brought 43:34 at the end of the third quarter for the Swiss team. Switzerland posted another 23-21 in the last quarter to seal the victory.
Luka Mandic led the way with 17 points and Mattia Cafisi (181-PG-97) added 10. Mathieu Giroud (185-SF-96) posted 8, while Andrea Beretta (175-PG-97) and Owandji Otoka scored 7 each. Yannick Franke ended up with 11 points in the losing effort and Lennart Overdevest (184-SG-96) nailed 10. Joey Liem (175-SG-96) and Adeola Morren (193-PF-96) delivered 8 points each in a loss.

Switzerland U16: Luka Mandic 17, Mattia Cafisi 10, Mathieu Giroud 8, Andrea Beretta 7, Owandji Otoka 7
Netherlands U16: Yannick Franke 11, Lennart Overdevest 10, Joey Liem 8, Adeola Morren 8


U20 European Championship: Portugal wins Group H despite the loss - by Eurobasket News

Portugal U20-Switzerland U20 42:52

Portugal wins Group H despite the loss from the Switzerland at the Classification Round for 9th to 18th Place in Division B of the U20 European Championship. The latter won 52:42 and finished fourth with 2-2 record.
Switzerland won the opening tip 4-0 and Brian Savoy (192-SG-92) later brought 11:3. Milos Bozovic (201-F-92) delivered two for 15:8 and Jeremy Landenbergue (182-PG-93) nailed three for 24:12. Switzerland added 19-15 in the second frame and led 30:19 at the halftime. Brian Savoy made another three free throws later in the third quarter for 35:26, while Miguel Cardoso (184-PG-93) closed the frame at 40:34. Portugal could not score for the first 7 minutes in the last stanza and allowed the opponents to take 43:34 advantage. Evrard Atcho (207-C/F-92) and Ventura scored the last points for their teams for the final result.
Brian Savoy paced all the winners with 16 points, while Evrard Atcho collected 13 points and 14 rebounds. Marko Mladjan (206-F-93), Jeremy Landenbergue and Milos Bozovic followed them with 6 points apiece. Joao Grosso (198-F-94) delivered 10 in defeat and Miguel Cardoso scored 7.

Portugal U20: Joao Grosso 10, Miguel Cardoso 7
Switzerland U20: Brian Savoy 16, Evrard Atcho 13+14 rebs, Marko Mladjan 6, Jeremy Landenbergue 6, Milos Bozovic 6


Geneve Lions land American PG Antoine Young - by Eurobasket News

Geneve Lions reinforced its roster at position 1. The LNA runner-up penned a deal with American PG Antoine Young (182-G-89). This is the first pro deal for the player who graduated at Creighton University few months ago. Young helped his school to win 2012 MVC Tournament averaging 12.1 points, 4.4 assists and 2 rebounds. He was named to MVC All-Tournament Team. Antoine Young shined for Creighton also as a junior. That season he had 12.9 ppg, 4.9 apg and 2.6 rpg for 38 games. The player was awarded with All-MVC 2nd Team -11, 12 and NABC Division I All-District 16 2nd Team -11, 12. In 2011 he also was also named to All-MVC Most-Improved Team -11.
Geneve Lions hired new Head Coach a month ago. It is Croatian specialist Ivan Rudez . He is also a Head Coach of the Slovakian National Team.


Vevey Riviera Basket returns Coco Kashama - by Eurobasket News

Coco Kashama (196-F-81) is back to Vevey Riviera Basket after one year. The Swiss/DR Congolese forward signed a deal for the next season. He missed the last one and played for Vevey Riviera Basket in 2010/11. He appeared 17 times in LNB averaging 9.2 points, 7 rebounds and 2.2 steals. Kashama helped the club to reach LNB Semifinals. From 2008 to 2010, he played for BBC Monthey and before that Kashama spent three years with Vevey Riviera. They were LNB champions in 2006 and next two seasons competed in LNA together. In 2005, Coco Kashama reached Swiss Cup Semifinals with Lusanne Morges. In the past, he spent few more years Riviera Basket and they were Swiss Cup winners in 2001. Kashama was 20-year-old player at that time.


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  TAIWAN   


Jeremy Lin excited to join the Rockets as Houston owner says team made a mistake releasing him last season - by Eurobasket News

The red background, the No. 7 Rockets jersey, the photo of Jeremy Lin (6'3''-PG-88, college: Harvard) dribbling up the court in a Houston uniform all seemed strange.

Linsanity officially arrived in Houston on Thursday, but the scene at the Rockets practice facility was a startling one even to Lin himself.

Just two days into his Houston tenure, the former Knick sensation admitted he thought this kind of press conference was going to take place in New York.

Before July 1, I had no idea what teams were interested in me, Lin said on Thursday. All I was hearing was, Youre going back to New York.

At the time, yes, I did prefer New York, Lin said. And then with the way free agency happened, by the time it came to the offer sheet, I was just excited about both opportunities.

Houston initially sent Lin a four-year contract offer worth a reported $28 million. According to GM Daryl Morey, the Rockets restructured Lins deal to the three-year, $25.1 million poison pill offer after Houston lost point guard Goran Dragic to free agency and traded point guard Kyle Lowry.

In so many words, Morey admitted that the offer was made to push the Knicks out of the Lin sweepstakes.

Our goal when we signed him was to get him, Morey said. We got more aggressive when Lowry and Dragic werent here. It was nothing more than trying to get the player. We did everything we could to get Jeremy.

Rockets owner Leslie Alexander, an NYU graduate from New Jersey, was a little more forward in saying that Houston knew the Knicks could not compete with the Rockets offer. With Lin standing to make $14.9 million in 2014-2015, the Knicks could have faced a luxury-tax penalty of almost $50 million.

Paying Carmelo Anthony, Amare Stoudemire and Tyson Chandler maximum deals in 2014-2015 is enough. Houstons back-loaded deal effectively blocked the Knicks from renewing Linsanity, according to Alexander.

I didnt think the Knicks were going to match, Alexander said. I dont think the press adequately portrayed the cost to the Knicks if they matched the offer.

Houstons offer did not go without criticism, and a lot of the disapproval came from Lins former teammates in New York. Anthony called Houstons offer ridiculous, and J.R. Smith stated that re-signing Lin to such a pact could ruffle the relationship the guard had with his more experienced Knick teammates.

Lin said he never felt alienated by Anthony, Smith or any other Knick. He said he has spoken to almost every former Knick teammate since the signing and has received nothing but well wishes.

I love Carmelo and J.R., Lin said. Ive never had any issues with them. I just know my relationship with them, and they have been very supportive. They were great teammates last year.

To Alexander and the Rockets, their box-out of the Knicks in the Lin sweepstakes was also a chance at redemption. Houston cut Lin less than two weeks after claiming him off waivers in December. On Christmas Day, minutes before the Knicks began the season against Boston, the Rockets called Lin in his hotel room while he was with his family and set in motion the move that highlighted the Knicks crazy season.

Throughout Thursdays press conference, Houston management talked of how big of a mistake that was. Alexander and the Rockets watched as Lin succeeded in New York. Now, the Rockets plan on making him the showcase of their young squad.

I made a mistake the first time, Alexander said. (Morey) said we were going to release Jeremy. He said he was a very good third guard, and someday could be a good second guard, and I should have done a little more homework.

Courtesy of www.nydailynews.com


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  TURKEY   


Besiktas returns Muratcan Guler, according to report - by Eurobasket News

Muratcan Guler (192-G-80, agency: 1x1 Sports) is back to Besiktas after two years, according to Salsabasket.net. The Turkish guard played for the reigning TBL champions from 2008 to 2010 and also from 1999 to 2001. Last season he spent with Turk Telekom Ankara averaging 7.8 points, 4.7 rebounds and 3.3 assists for 29 games in domestic championship. In EuroChallenge, Guler had 6.8 ppg, 4.8 apg and 4.7 rpg for 6 games. In 2010/11, Muratcan Guler played for Antalya registering 11.5 ppg, 7.6 rpg and 3.5 apg for 32 games. He participated at TBL All-Star Game. Guler also played at the All-Star Game in 2007 and 2010. He won the Turkish Cup with Turke Telekom in 2008. Two years before that Guler was named Eurobasket.com All-Turkish League Defensive Player of the Year. He was a member of Karsiyaka from 2004 to 2006 and before that Guler spent two years with Ulker and one with Galatasaray. He started pro career with ITU Istanbul.


U16 European Championship: Akif Guven leads Turkey past Croatia - by Eurobasket News

Turkey U16 - Croatia U16 98:95 (OT)

Turkey clinched the second win at the U16 European Championship. They outscored Croatia in overtime thriller for 2-0 record in Group A. Akif Guven (206-C-96) came up with 24 points to lead the winners.
Croatia exploded with 26 points in the first quarter to jump ahead. They built an 11-point lead at the first intermission. Turkey responded with an excellent offence in the second quarter. They knocked down 30 points to take a 45:44 halftime lead. Croatia regained the lead in the third period. They secured a one-point lead before the fourth quarter. Croatia led by five points 78:73 with five minutes remaining. But Turkey denied the deficit and pulled in front for an 87:84 lead with 36 seconds left in regulation. However Dominovic drained a late triple to send the game into overtime. Serbia surged ahead in the extra period but Afik Guven converted a layup and then Kadir Bayram (189-PG-96) hit two free throws to seal the win for Turkey. Kadir Bayram finished with 18 points, while Oktay Ulubay (189-SG-97) contributed 13 points for the winners. Marko Arapovic (207-C/F-96) answered with 32 points and 13 boards for Croatia. Leon Tomic (195-F-96) had 23 points in the losing case.

Turkey U16: Akif Guven 24, Kadir Bayram 18, Oktay Ulubay 13
Croatia U16: Marko Arapovic 32+13 boards, Leon Tomic 23


U20 European Championship: Turkey fire past Ukraine - by Eurobasket News

Turkey U20 - Ukraine U20 74:47

Turkey will play for the 9th overall position at U20 European Championship. They held off Ukraine to set up the clash versus Italy. Ukraine will face Russia for the 11th overall position. Erbil Eroglu (195-PG-93) knocked down 14 points to lead Turkey.
Turkey stunned Ukraine in the opening frame. They went on a 22:8 run to ensure a comfortable lead. Turkey stayed in control throughout the second quarter. They piled up a 40:22 halftime lead. Turkey maintained the lead throughout the third quarter. They ensured a 26-point lead at the final intermission. Turkey and Ukraine exchanged baskets throughout the fourth term as Ertugrul Erdogan team coasted to the victory. Ramazan Tekin (212-C-93) notched 12 points, while Ugur Dokuyan (197-SF-93) accounted for 10 points for the winners. Vyacheslav Bobrov (202-F-92) answered with 9 points and 10 rebounds for Ukraine. Olexandr Misyats (200-SF-92) had 8 points in the losing case.

Turkey U20: Erbil Eroglu 14, Ramazan Tekin 12, Ugur Dokuyan 10
Ukraine U20: Vyacheslav Bobrov 9+10 boards, Olexandr Misyats 8


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  U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS   


Kemba Walker another doubel-double - by David Edole

NBA.com report
The Charlotte Observer
Kemba Walker (185-PG-90, college: Connecticut) notched a double-double (19 points, 10 assists) and led six Bobcats scoring in double digits as Charlotte ran its winning streak to four games with a 99-86 victory over Denver on July 19, 2012 in the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas.
Charlotte held the lead for most of the game but put the game away with an 11-2 run late in the fourth quarter sparked by five points from Jeffery Taylor, who finished with 16 points and seven assists.
Six Bobcats scored in double figures Kemba Walker (19), Jeffery Taylor (16), Carlon Brown (15), Othello Hunter (14), Bismack Biyombo (12) and Cory Higgins (12) Mike Dunlap basketball showcased itself again as Charlotte forced 22 Nuggets turnovers while turning it over just 11 times The Cats continue to work on the glass, outrebounding Denver, 36-33, including 17-12 on the offensive glass.
Walker, the Bobcats second-year point guard continues to showcase his game in Las Vegas, finishing with a team-high 19 points and 10 assists. He also added four rebounds and two steals.
After scoring two points against Minnesota on Tuesday, rookie Jeffery Taylor bounced back with his third strong game in Las Vegas. Taylor scored 16 points with two 3-pointers and brought down seven rebounds.

GAME NOTES
Kemba Walker entered the game leading the NBA Summer League in assists (6.3) and pushed that average 7.3 after dishing out 10 dimes The Bobcats are one of two undefeated teams remaining in the NBA Summer League, and the only team with four wins. The Golden State Warriors are 3-0 Rookie Michael Kidd-Gilchrist missed his third-straight game with a sore left knee.

NEXT UP
The Bobcats will close their Summer League action against the Memphis Grizzlies at 6:30 p.m. on Friday at the Thomas and Mack Center. Watch the game on NBA TV.


Zero Tolerance dropped their first two games - by David Edole

ORLANDO, FL-- Zero Tolerance All Stars dropped their first two games of Pool E play in the 2012 AAU 11th Grade Silver Division Thursday night. Zero Tolerance was sloppy in the opener as they dropped the contest, 51-41, to Chattanooga Steam. A brash of turnovers and the inability to carom a rebound led to their downfall. Raheem Huggins was the top scorer when he finished with ten points and Kelvin Thomas (94) chipped in with six.
New York City Vipers came from behind to edge Zero Tolerance, 52-51, in the late game. ZT had a ten point lead on an emphatic two hand dunk by Ackhel Bazil, 32-22, in the third with 7:01 on the clock. The Vipers mounted a well calculated comeback with patience and ball movement. By the end of the horn, the vipers were only down by four, 40-36. The Viper rally was completed when they took the lead 48-47, with 2:06 showing. Elisha Arnold's answered for Zero Tolerance with a lefty lay up, 48-49. Following a free throw to tie the game by the Vipers, Thomas drove down the lane and found Yanik Toure to give ZT another lead, 49-51. However, Vipers nailed a three pointer with 18 second left that had Zero Tolerance reeling. ZT had two opportunities but both shot attempts clanged the rim and the Vipers jumped for joy. Toure led ZT with twelve and Bazil chipped in with ten. Zero Tolerance is now scheduled to play Ivey 23 Terps at 5pm tonight (Friday) at the HP Field house.

The players that are representing Zero Tolerance Yanik Toure, Keita Jones (170-PG-96), Kelvin Thomas, Elisha Arnold, J'Moi Smith, Alex Bazil, Raheem Huggins, Carlos Fondeur Jr., Jecoy Julius, Rowhann David, Dominick Pupura, and Shiquoy Webster. The man in charge, the one who barks out orders is head coach Raheem Smith and he is assisted by Kevin Sheppard (182-G-79, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Jacksonville), Jaime Francis and Alva Swan.


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  UBA   


Monte Hermoso land UBA star: Al'Lonzo Coleman - by David Walls


Monte Hermoso Basket continued to strengthen their roster. They agreed on terms of contract with Al'Lonzo Coleman (6'7''-F-89, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Presbyterian).. The forward started his pro career this year. He joined Georgia Lions in UBA. The forward notched 23.9 points, 13.0 rebounds, 3.8 assists and 1.3 blocks per appearance. USBasket.com named Al'Lonzo Coleman All-UBA Centre of the Year. He also made it into All-UBA 1st Team. Al'Lonzo Coleman graduated from the Presbyterian College in 2012. He notched 16.9 points, 8.8 rebounds, 1.8 assists and 1.1 steals per game in his senior season. The forward was named into All-Big South Conference 1st Team. Al'Lonzo Coleman also got into NABC Division I All-District 3 2nd Team.

News from Latinbasket.com


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  UKRAINE   


U20 European Championship: Turkey fire past Ukraine - by Eurobasket News

Turkey U20 - Ukraine U20 74:47

Turkey will play for the 9th overall position at U20 European Championship. They held off Ukraine to set up the clash versus Italy. Ukraine will face Russia for the 11th overall position. Erbil Eroglu (195-PG-93) knocked down 14 points to lead Turkey.
Turkey stunned Ukraine in the opening frame. They went on a 22:8 run to ensure a comfortable lead. Turkey stayed in control throughout the second quarter. They piled up a 40:22 halftime lead. Turkey maintained the lead throughout the third quarter. They ensured a 26-point lead at the final intermission. Turkey and Ukraine exchanged baskets throughout the fourth term as Ertugrul Erdogan team coasted to the victory. Ramazan Tekin (212-C-93) notched 12 points, while Ugur Dokuyan (197-SF-93) accounted for 10 points for the winners. Vyacheslav Bobrov (202-F-92) answered with 9 points and 10 rebounds for Ukraine. Olexandr Misyats (200-SF-92) had 8 points in the losing case.

Turkey U20: Erbil Eroglu 14, Ramazan Tekin 12, Ugur Dokuyan 10
Ukraine U20: Vyacheslav Bobrov 9+10 boards, Olexandr Misyats 8


U16 European Championship: Ukraine shoot down Latvia - by Eurobasket News

Ukraine U16 - Latvia U16 73:58

Ukraine coasted to the second win at the U16 European Championship. They overcame Latvia to stay undefeated at 2-0 record in Group B. Latvia slipped at 0-2 record after the loss.
Ukraine jumped to an early lead. They posted a 19:12 lead at the first break. Latvia narrowed the margin in the second frame. They got within 4 points at the interval 36:32. Latvia stayed aggressive in the third period. They trimmed the deficit at the third period to trail by three points 44:47. Ukraine however took over in the final frame. They fired 26 points to silence their opponents. Oleksandr Kobets (192-SF-96) nailed 24 points to lead the charge. Vadym Golyk (188-SF-96) and Yevgen Balaban (198-PF-96) had 11 points each in the victory. Ervins Meznieks (184-F-96) answered with 17 points for Latvia. Rihards Lomazs (175-PG-96) netted 10 points in the loss.

Ukraine U16: Oleksandr Kobets 24, Vadym Golyk 11, Yevgen Balaban 11
Latvia U16: Ervins Meznieks 17, Rihards Lomazs 10


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  UNITED KINGDOM   


U16 European Championship: Italy rally past England for second win - by Eurobasket News

Italy U16 - England U16 65:47

Italy registered the second straight win at U16 European Championship preliminary round. They knocked down England in Group A in Ventspils. Daniel Donzelli (199-SG-96) came up with 15 points, 11 rebounds and 5 steals to lead the Azzurri. England fell at 0-2 record after the loss.
Italy did not waste too much time as they surged in front in the opening quarter. The Azzurri piled up a 21:11 lead after ten minutes. The margin grew in the second frame. Italy ensured a 38:25 halftime lead. Italy stayed in control throughout the third term. They piled up a 17-point advantage at the final break. Italy outscored England in the fourth quarter posting a well-deserved win at the end. Diego Flaccadori (184-PG-96) had 12 points, while Federico Mussini (179-PG-96) and Riccardo Rossato (189-PG-96) accounted for 11 points each in the victory. Jules Akodo (G-96) replied with 17 points and 8 rebounds for England. Justas Muzikevicius (204-PF-96) had 9 points in the loss.

Italy U16: Daniel Donzelli 15+11 boards, Diego Flaccadori 12, Federico Mussini 11, Riccardo Rossato 11
England U16: Jules Akodo 17, Justas Muzikevicius 9


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  URUGUAY   

Standings - Metropolitan League

Metropolitan Standings
 1. Marne 11-4 
 2. Atenas 10-4 
 3. Capitol 9-6 
 4. Cader 8-6 
 5. Urunday Univ. 8-7 
 6. Larranaga 7-6 
 7. Goes 7-7 
 8. Guruyu Waston 6-8 
 9. Romis N. 5-10 
 10. Verdirrojo 4-10 
 11. Yale 4-11 

Regular Season: Round 18

Jul. 23: Goes - Romis N.
Jul. 23: Larranaga - Yale
Jul. 23: Urunday Univ. - Marne
Jul. 23: Verdirrojo - Cader
Jul. 23: Guruyu Waston - Atenas




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Women News


Thunder snap up SEABL star - by Eurobasket News

BDS Logan Thunder Head Coach Jason Chainey has bolstered his playing squad ahead of the 2012/13 WNBL season, after securing the services of Hobart Lady Chargers American import Lindsay Laur (182-F, college: Wisc.-Milwaukee) on a one-year deal.

The 24-year-old from Minnesota, who has been a revelation in her first season in Australia since linking up with the Lady Chargers in the South East Australian Basketball League (SEABL), officially put pen to paper on last Monday (9 July).

Averaging an impressive 19 points and 10.3 rebounds in the opening 16 rounds of Australias premier winter basketball league, new Thunder head coach Chainey is confident the 190cm forward will fill the void left by the departed Cayla Francis and Renae Camino.

Any player who is delivering stats like that in one of Australias best domestic leagues you have to sit up and have a look at, Chainey said

She brings great versatility; she can play from the one spot through to the five spot, she shoots the ball well from the perimeter and can play back to the basket, so I genuinely think that she is going to be a handful to manage for most teams.

Shooting at just under 44 per cent from the floor and a league best 89.7 per cent from the foul line, Chainey regards Lair as the complete package, who will predominately fill the four spot.

She seems to have it all as a player and this is something that excites me about the sort of player that she is, he said.

What attracted me to her also was the fact that she has a very cool demeanor and solid leadership skills and seems to fit in well with teams and make players around her even better.

Most importantly, she is a great person who is a great fit within our organisation, so we are very much looking forward to her arriving.

Chainey believes the towering Laur, who also attracted interest from WNBL clubs Southern Design Sydney Uni Flames and West Coast Waves, will add to the shooting firepower of his team.

The way in which we have recruited this year, we have scoring punch from our point guard right through to our five man, he said.

I believe that on any given night any of the girls could drop 20 plus points and that is something that I know Lindsay has the ability to do.

Following an outstanding four-year college career at the University of Milwaukee, Lindsay played professionally overseas for several years before heading Down Under.

The Thunder is expected to announce more signings in the coming weeks as the start of the 2012-13 WNBL season approaches.

Courtesy of WNBL Australia


Australia cruise past China in Villenueve - by Eurobasket News

Australia - China 84:53

Australia registered the first win at the international tournament in Villenueve. The Opals took care of China in the opener. Lauren Jackson (196-F/C-81) scored 17 points to lead the winners.
Australia silenced the Asian powerhouse in the opening quarter. The Opals held China to 5 points in the period to take an 18-point lead. Australia stretched the margin in the second quarter. They established a 45:18 halftime lead. Australia maintained the lead throughout the third term. The Opals entered the final period up by as many as 34 points. China managed to outscore their opponents in the fourth frame but to no avail. Belinda Snell (181-F-81) accounted for 16 points, while Cambage Elizabeth (203-C-91) added 14 points for Australia. Chen Nan (197-C-83) answered with 12 points and 8 rebounds for China. Ma Zengyu (183-F-84) had 10 points in the loss.

Australia: Lauren Jackson 17, Belinda Snell 16, Cambage Elizabeth 14
China: Chen Nan 12, Ma Zengyu 10


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  BRAZIL   


France topple Brazil in Villenueve - by Eurobasket News

France - Brazil 67:57

France recorded the first win at the Villenueve international tournament. They toppled Brazil in the opener. Sandrine Gruda (193-C-87) came up with 17 points and 11 rebounds for the winning side.
France earned a narrow 17:13 lead at the first break. The hosts stretched the lead in the second quarter. France accumulated a 32:24 halftime lead. The teams traded baskets throughout the third term. The hosts managed to stay in front as they built a 53:45 advantage at the final break. France held Brazil to 12 points in the final period and sealed the victory at the end. Edwige Lawson-Wade (166-PG-79) posted 11 points, while Emilie Gomis (180-G/F-83) added 10 points in the victory. Clarissa Dos Santos (186-C-88) answered with 17 points for Brazil. Adriana Pinto (169-G-78) had 12 points in the loss.

France: Sandrine Gruda 17+11 boards, Edwige Lawson-Wade 11, Emilie Gomis 10
Brazil: Clarissa Dos Santos 17, Adriana Pinto 12


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  CHINA   


Australia cruise past China in Villenueve - by Eurobasket News

Australia - China 84:53

Australia registered the first win at the international tournament in Villenueve. The Opals took care of China in the opener. Lauren Jackson (196-F/C-81) scored 17 points to lead the winners.
Australia silenced the Asian powerhouse in the opening quarter. The Opals held China to 5 points in the period to take an 18-point lead. Australia stretched the margin in the second quarter. They established a 45:18 halftime lead. Australia maintained the lead throughout the third term. The Opals entered the final period up by as many as 34 points. China managed to outscore their opponents in the fourth frame but to no avail. Belinda Snell (181-F-81) accounted for 16 points, while Cambage Elizabeth (203-C-91) added 14 points for Australia. Chen Nan (197-C-83) answered with 12 points and 8 rebounds for China. Ma Zengyu (183-F-84) had 10 points in the loss.

Australia: Lauren Jackson 17, Belinda Snell 16, Cambage Elizabeth 14
China: Chen Nan 12, Ma Zengyu 10


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  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U16   

Div.C Standings - by Eurobasket News

Standings
Group A
1. Iceland3-0
2. Cyprus2-1
3. Monaco1-2
4. Wales0-3
Group B
1. Scotland3-0
2. Gibraltar2-1
3. Malta1-2
4. Andorra0-3

Preliminary Round: Round 3

A

Jul. 19: MON - CYP 27-48
Jul. 19: WAL - ISL 12-64

B

Jul. 19: MLT - AND 48-37
Jul. 19: GIB - SCO 45-51

Semi-Finals: Round 4

Jul. 21: SCO - CYP
Jul. 21: ISL - GIB

Places 5-8

Jul. 21: MON - AND
Jul. 21: MLT - WAL


Division C: Everything is ready for the Semifinals in Gibraltar - by Eurobasket News

Preliminary Round of U16 EuroBasket Division C is over. Four teams advanced to the Semifinals and other four will continue in Classification Round from 5th to 8th place in Gibraltar.

Preliminary Round - Day 1

GROUP A
Jul. 17, 2012 Monaco-Wales 55-23
Jul. 17, 2012 Iceland-Cyprus 66-43

GROUP B
Jul. 17, 2012 Malta-Gibraltar 58-62
Jul. 17, 2012 Scotland-Andorra 57-34


Preliminary Round - Day 2

GROUP A
Jul. 18, 2012 Iceland-Monaco 88-31
Jul. 18, 2012 Cyprus-Wales 75-21

GROUP B
Jul. 18, 2012 Andorra-Gibraltar 29-38
Jul. 18, 2012 Scotland-Malta 53-49


Preliminary Round - Day 3

GROUP A
Jul. 19, 2012 Wales-Iceland 12-64
Jul. 19, 2012 Monaco-Cyprus 27-48

GROUP B
Jul. 19, 2012 Malta-Andorra 48-37
Jul. 19, 2012 Gibraltar-Scotland 45-51


Preliminary Group A
1. Iceland 3-0
2. Cyprus 2-1
3. Monaco 1-2
4. Wales 0-3

Preliminary Group B
1. Scotland 3-0
2. Gibraltar 2-1
3. Malta 1-2
4. Andorra 0-3


SEMIFINALS - Day 4
Jul. 21, 2012 Scotland-Cyprus
Jul. 21, 2012 Iceland-Gibraltar

Places 5-8 - Day 4
Jul. 21, 2012 Monaco-Andorra
Jul. 21, 2012 Malta-Wales


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


France topple Brazil in Villenueve - by Eurobasket News

France - Brazil 67:57

France recorded the first win at the Villenueve international tournament. They toppled Brazil in the opener. Sandrine Gruda (193-C-87) came up with 17 points and 11 rebounds for the winning side.
France earned a narrow 17:13 lead at the first break. The hosts stretched the lead in the second quarter. France accumulated a 32:24 halftime lead. The teams traded baskets throughout the third term. The hosts managed to stay in front as they built a 53:45 advantage at the final break. France held Brazil to 12 points in the final period and sealed the victory at the end. Edwige Lawson-Wade (166-PG-79) posted 11 points, while Emilie Gomis (180-G/F-83) added 10 points in the victory. Clarissa Dos Santos (186-C-88) answered with 17 points for Brazil. Adriana Pinto (169-G-78) had 12 points in the loss.

France: Sandrine Gruda 17+11 boards, Edwige Lawson-Wade 11, Emilie Gomis 10
Brazil: Clarissa Dos Santos 17, Adriana Pinto 12


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  GERMANY   


Ane Breitreiner back to Wasserburg - by Marsha Owusu Gyamfi

National team player after six years back in Wasserburg!

Anne Breitreiner (183-G/F-84, agency: LBM Management) plays in the upcoming season for their home club, TSV Wasserburg. The ex-champion gets back to one of two international players in the league, which is attributed by experts in international format. The other is Romy Br, the French club Challes-les-Eaux is broke.

"I'm very happy that Anne returns home," Coach Bastian Wernthaler is excited. "The transfer is due to manager Gaby Brei that has worked incredibly hard for this coup. No other would have realized this transfer." And without the participation in the FIBA EuroCup-Wasserburg would have had no chance to lure the 27-year-old back home. Breitreiner played in Valencia, Gdynia, Gorzow, Tarbes and Villeneuve recent years, mostly in European competitions, three years even in the Euro League.

After the failed European Championship qualifier with the nationalteam squad Anne Breitreiner has a short summer break before mid-August, preparation begins with his new old club. With 12.6 points and 4.4 rebounds in addition she was the most important player in German selection. 26 points against Bulgaria, 19 against and 18 group winners Sweden speak against Romania at a triple rate of 42 percent of their class. "She has proven this summer with the national team again, she's a player who has to count for European leaders. I'm very happy to work with it and think that we will have great success, " Coach Wernthaler optimistic. He knows the big 1.83 meters wide Breitreiner very well, from his time as nationalteam head coach.

The current squad:
Stina Barnert (174-G-89) (Ibiza / ESP), Anne Breitreiner (Villeneuve / FRA), Svenja Brunckhorst (178-G-91) (Freiburg), Emma Cannon (188-F, college: Cent.Florida) (Osnabrck), Margaret Dwyer (185-G, college: Missouri St.) (Osnabrck), Tiina Sten (189-G/F-85, agency: Regeneracom Sports, college: St.John's) (Cadi La Seu / ESP)


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


Galil signed Christine Flores. - by Gil Goshen


The new team in dv 1 Galil Elion signed today a second player Rookie from Missouri Chrisine Flores.
2011-12: Earned All-Big 12 Second Team honors after ranking second in the conference in scoring and blocks (trailing only Brittney Griner in both categories), as well as sixth in rebounds. 2010-11 Led Missouri in both free throw percentage and rebounds, and ranked second in points per game.
Flores was draffted 30th this season but did not make a team.
According to the team GM: " It was not sob easy to convince Flores to play for Galil these days since the sensitivity around the Syrian border, but I am happy she has decided to play for us eventually."

2011-2012: Missouri (NCAA, starting five): 31 games: 16.9ppg, 7.8rpg, 2.3apg, 1.1spg, 3.0bpg, FGP: 42.6%, 3PT: 35.9%, FT: 77.2%


Galil signed Elonu Adaora . - by Gil Goshen



The new team in div 1 in Israel - Galil Elion signed Elonu Adaora , Rookie
from Texas a&m:
2010-2011: Texas A&M (NCAA, starting five): 38 games: 8.4ppg, 5.9rpg, 1.3apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 41.9%, 3PT: 20.0%, FT: 76.3%
2011-2012: Texas A&M (NCAA, starting five): 35 games: 11.6ppg, 6.2rpg, 1.5apg, 1.7spg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 47.3%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 71.2%.
Elonue was an wnba prospect this season but was not draffted.
According to the team GM the team will sign two more usa players this week.
2011-12: Honorable Mention All-Big 12 on an Aggie team that had four double-figure scorers, including Draft prospects Sydney Carter and Tyra White. 2010-11.


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


Le Mura Lucca came up with another loud signing - by Eurobasket News

Le Mura Lucca came up with another loud signing as they brought Adrienne Johnson (182-F-89, agency: LBM Management, college: Louisiana Tech) for the next season. According to lovewomensbasketball.com Italian club Le Mura Lucca has announced another signing of an American player.
Adrienne Johnson arrives from Bulgarian team. In 2011-2012 for Dunav Ruse (Bulgaria-NBL, starting five) she became the top-sorer of the league with 26.3ppg, Reb-3 (8.8rpg), 1.5apg, Steals-4 (1.8spg), FGP-2 (58.3%), 3PT: 29.2%, FT: 81.0%.
Johnson was selected in third round of the WNBA Draft this year. She was picked by the Connecticut Sun, but failed to secure a deal with them. Adrienne Johnson is a product of the Louisiana Tech University, where he graduated few months ago. She exploded with 21.9 ppg, 9.4 rpg and 2.1 spg for his school as a senior. Johnson helped them reach WAC Tournament Finals. In 2010, Louisiana Tech was the winner of WAC Tournament. Johnson had 16 ppg and 7.2 rpg that season. She was named WAC All-Tournament Team -10. In 2009 and 2010, Adrienne Johnson was also awarded with All-WAC 1st Team.


Devereaux Peters heads to Le Mura Lucca - by Eurobasket News

Devereaux Peters (187-F-89, agency: LBM Management, college: Notre Dame) heads to Le Mura Lucca for 2012/2013 season. According to lovewomensbasketball.com, Italian A1 division club Le Mura Lucca has announced they have inked American forward Devereaux Peters for the upcoming season.
In 2007-2008 she started for Notre Dame (NCAA) and averaged 9.0ppg, 5.6rpg, 1.0apg, 1.7spg, 2.0bpg, FGP: 52.2%, FT: 75.0%. In 2008-2009 her stats read 7.3ppg, 4.3rpg, 1.7apg, 1.7spg, 2.0bpg, FGP: 68.8%. In her third season for the team she showed 6.7ppg, 5.6rpg, 1.1apg, 1.4spg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 48.2%, FT: 55.0%. In 2010-2011 Devereaux Peters averaged 11.9ppg, 7.5rpg, 1.6apg, 1.7spg, 1.7bpg, FGP: 59.3%, FT: 72.8%. Last season her stats read 11.8ppg, 9.3rpg, 2.1apg, 2.0spg, 2.0bpg, FGP: 54.4%, FT: 66.9%.
In 2012 she was drafted by Minnesota Lynx (WNBA, 1rd (3). In 16 games so far she averages 5.4 points per game.


*****************************************************
  JAMAICA   


Riva Basket keeps 'LNA Forward of the Year' Rhona McKenzie - by Eurobasket News

Riva Basket announced very important news. The team managed to keep 'LNA Forward of the Year' Rhona McKenzie (183-F-76, agency: LBM Management) for 2012/13 season. The Jamaican National Team member had 10.7 ppg, 10.7 rpg and 3.8 spg for 26 games with Riva. She joined them a year ago and helped to reach LNA and Swiss Cup Finals. McKenzie played for Belgian DBC Houthalen in 2010/11 and before that she spent three years with Sdent Sierre Basket. They were LNA champions together in 2009 and 2010. McKenzie also led the club to Swiss Cup trophy in their last season together. At that time she had 11.7 ppg and 8.2 rpg for 9 games in the league. In the past, Rhona McKenzie played in Holland and Luxembourg. She played for Jamaica at 2011 FIBA Americas in Neiva Huila and Centrobasket in Morovis this year.


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


CSM Satu Mare inks American G Megan Zullo - by Eurobasket News

Megan Zullo (172-G-88) is set to start her professional basketball career. The American guard penned a one-season deal with CSM Satu Mare. The will compete in Romanian top division for women. Zullo graduated at the University of Massachusetts few months ago. She had 9.6 ppg, 3.5 apg and 3.3 rpg for 28 games in their last season together. In 2010/11, the player had almost the same numbers. Zullo spent all four years with UMass.
Earlier this summer CSM Satu Mare brought in Hungarian forward Hajnalka Szlimak. She arrived from Nanette FTC. The team also inked Serbian center Dara Kovacevic, who won the Romanian league title with Targoviste last season. CSM Satu Mare parted ways with Amra Mehmedic and Anita Meszaros.


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


Trojans on the rise at WBC - by Eurobasket News

Taranaki Trojans continued to ascend the Womens Basketball Championship table with their second win on the opening day of play at Tournament Two.

Entering the weekend with a 3-3 record. the Trojans inflicted the hometown Hutt Vally Flyers with their first loss of the season in the morning and followed up with another victory over Southland Kelvin Hotel Pearls in the afternoon.

Waitakere West Auckland also hung around the top of the pile with a 71-51 whitewash of crosstown rivals Harbour Breeze.

Improving their record to a 5-2, the Rangers were led by guard Chevannah Paalvast (180-SG-91, college: Monmouth), back home from her scholarship at Monmouth University, who had 24 points to lead all scorers.

In the other early match-up, defending champions Otago Oceana Goldrush got their campaign back on track with a 63-48 result over neighbours Southland, led by 17 points from Southern Steel netballer Jodi Brown (186-F-81).

Womens Basketball Championship
Tournament Two, Lower Hutt
Friday, July 20
9am
Taranaki Trojans 68 (Terai Sadler 23, Josie Stockill 21) Hutt Valley Flyers 58 (Stella Beck (177-F-95) 11, Jacinta Beckley 11)

Otago Oceana Goldrush 63 (Jodi Brown 17) Southland Kelvin Hotel Pearls 48 (Bailey McDougall (174-G-94) 13, Elise Cassidy 12, Morgan Hunter (178-G-94) 12)

11am
Waikato Wizards 49 (Rhaiah Spooner-Knight 13, Miriam Slatter 10) Palmerston North Storm 47 (Alicia McEwen (188-F-93) 18, Danielle Pomare-Mackay 10)

Waitakere West Auckland 71 (Chevannah Paalvast 24, Adoniah Lewis 10, Penina Davidson 10) Harbour Breeze 51 (Anna Lacy 11, Rebecca Van Kuyk 11)

2pm
Taranaki Trojans 62 (Terai Sadler 22, Jose Stockill 19) Southland Kelvin Hotel Pearls 52 (Te Huinga Selby-Rickett 21)

Hutt Valley Flyers 56 (Margaret Scott 15, Stella Beck 13, Milomilo Nanai 10) Nelson Sparks 46 (Jelena Vucinic 19, Jess Bygate 11)

5pm
Canterbury Wildcats 31 (Courtney Hamblin 10) Palmerston North Storm 42 (Alicia McEwen 16)

Harbour Breeze 61 (Brooke Blair 21, Anna Lacey 13) Waikato Wizards 54 (Natasha Lenden 12)

7pm
Nelson Sparks 68 (Nicky Rampton (186-F-77) 17, Jelena Vucinic 16) Rotorua Lady Volcanics 50 (Aroha Jennings 23, Kaysha Whakarau 14)

Otago Oceana Goldrush 56 (Te Paea Selby Rickett 14, Jodi Brown 12) Waitakere West Auckland Ranges 64 (Chevannah Paalvast 19, Adoniah Lewis 15)

Standings
Hutt Valley Flyers 6-1
Waitakere West Auckland Flyers 6-2
Nelson Sparks 5-2
Taranaki Trojans 5-3
Harbour Breeze 4-3
Waikato Wizards 4-3
Canterbury Wildcats 3-3
Otago Oceana Goldrush 2-4
Palmerston North Storm 2-4
Rotorua Lady Volcanoes 1-6
Southland Kelvin Hotel Pearls 0-7
Courtesy of: basketball.org.nz


No longer flying under radar - by Eurobasket News

Denise Morgan is no coaching rookie, but shes kept a low profile and admits her style is somewhat unorthodox.

Yet her Hutt Valley Flyers were the talk of the town last month as they emerged from the 2012 Womens Basketball Championship opening tournament in Nelson with a perfect 5-0 record, including wins over the previous two champions Otago Oceana Goldrush and Harbour Breeze.

And they did so, essentially, without a star player. Their two best-known performers teenagers Stella Beck and Milomilo Nanai of the champion Hutt Valley High School squad started on the bench, and Beck was the only Flyer to average double-figure scoring with just 11.8 points per game.

Im not a great believer in running an offence to get the ball to one so-called star, says Morgan (57), who has stayed out of the Basketball New Zealand coaching programme, while plying her trade with Hutt Valley age-group teams.

I like my girls to believe anyone can score everyone is in the game on offence.
Fundamentally, were pretty strong on offence, so our focus has been in developing defence.

Morgan is under no illusions how difficult itll be for the Flyers to maintain their top-of-the-table standing on their home court at Walter Nash Stadium this weekend. Injury will force at least one change to the starting five and bereavement may yet account for another.

While the Tall Ferns were attempting to qualify for the London Olympics, Hutt accounted for some of the WBCs most dangerous teams four weeks ago, but one in particular still looms.

Last year, they beat Nelson in overtime on the penultimate night of the finals, but then couldnt repeat the result when the two sides met again the next morning in the semis. With the Sparks compiling a 4-1 record at home last month, their encounter tomorrow afternoon will be a top-of-the-table contest.

Im not in any way over-confident, says Morgan. I just hope we can maintain what we did at the last tournament theres no way Im making predictions about winning.

We have to be playing good basketball game in and game out. When that happens, then maybe a win will occur and maybe several wins will occur.

And that may put us in a final with a championship a possibility.

In other key match-ups tomorrow, the Breeze (3-2) take on crosstown rivals Waitakere West Auckland Rangers (4-2), while titleholders Otago (1-3) have much ground to make up, beginning with their game against winless neighbours Southland Kelvin Hotel Pearls (0-5).

Womens Basketball Championship
Tournament Two, Lower Hutt
Friday, July 20
9am
Taranaki Trojans v Hutt Valley Flyers
Otago Oceana Goldrush v Southland Kelvin Hotel Pearls
11am
Waikato Wizards v Palmerston North Storm
Harbour Breeze v Waitakere West Auckland Rangers
2pm
Southland Kelvin Hotel Pearls v Taranaki Trojans
Nelson Sparks v Hutt Valley Flyers
5pm
Canterbury Wildcats v Palmerston North Storm
Harbour Breeze v Waikato Wizards
7pm
Nelson Sparks v Rotorua Lady Vols
Otago Oceana Goldrush v Waitakere West Auckland Rangers
Courtesy of: www.basketball.org.nz


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


CSM Satu Mare inks American G Megan Zullo - by Eurobasket News

Megan Zullo (172-G-88) is set to start her professional basketball career. The American guard penned a one-season deal with CSM Satu Mare. The will compete in Romanian top division for women. Zullo graduated at the University of Massachusetts few months ago. She had 9.6 ppg, 3.5 apg and 3.3 rpg for 28 games in their last season together. In 2010/11, the player had almost the same numbers. Zullo spent all four years with UMass.
Earlier this summer CSM Satu Mare brought in Hungarian forward Hajnalka Szlimak. She arrived from Nanette FTC. The team also inked Serbian center Dara Kovacevic, who won the Romanian league title with Targoviste last season. CSM Satu Mare parted ways with Amra Mehmedic and Anita Meszaros.


*****************************************************
  SWITZERLAND   


Pully inks National Team PF Melissa Favre - by Eurobasket News

Melissa Favre (184-PF-92) is a new member of Esperance Sportive Pully. The Swiss power forward penned a deal for the next season. Favre spent last three years with Nyon Basket averaging 10.8 points and 3.1 rebounds in the latest one. She appeared 24 times in LNA and was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Swiss LNA Honorable Mention -12. In 2010/11 season Favre collected 11.8 ppg and 2.6 rpg for 21 games with the club. A year before that, she had slightly better numbers.
Melissa Favre is active member of the Swiss National Team. She played for them in 2013 EuroBasket Qualifications, but they failed to book a ticket for the final tournament in France. Favre appeared in four games getting just few minutes on the court. Two years ago, Favre played for Swiss U18 National Team.


Riva Basket keeps 'LNA Forward of the Year' Rhona McKenzie - by Eurobasket News

Riva Basket announced very important news. The team managed to keep 'LNA Forward of the Year' Rhona McKenzie (183-F-76, agency: LBM Management) for 2012/13 season. The Jamaican National Team member had 10.7 ppg, 10.7 rpg and 3.8 spg for 26 games with Riva. She joined them a year ago and helped to reach LNA and Swiss Cup Finals. McKenzie played for Belgian DBC Houthalen in 2010/11 and before that she spent three years with Sdent Sierre Basket. They were LNA champions together in 2009 and 2010. McKenzie also led the club to Swiss Cup trophy in their last season together. At that time she had 11.7 ppg and 8.2 rpg for 9 games in the league. In the past, Rhona McKenzie played in Holland and Luxembourg. She played for Jamaica at 2011 FIBA Americas in Neiva Huila and Centrobasket in Morovis this year.


*****************************************************
  WBCBL   


NorthEast Region 2012 Awards - by Lucius Jones

Despite a deceptive 1-7 record for the Detroit BlackHawks, coaches did not hold that against the great Joei Clyburn (6'1''-G/F-84, college: Xavier) who was voted on to the NorthEast Region 1st Team.

The 4-3 Flint Monarchs were represented by Co-MVP Natasha Denise Morris (5'8''-G/F-88, agency: Dow Sports Management, college: St.Peter's) who also placed on the NorthEast Regional 1st Team and Co-Coach of the Year, Deonta McChester .

Cleveland finished 3-4 and was honored with the Defensive Player of the Year in Simone Jelks (5'11''-F/G-86, college: USC) and also 2 NorthEast Region 1st Team players in Erica Glover (5'5''-G, college: Akron) and Christina Estrict.

Columbus Hidden Gems ends the Regular Season as NorthEast Region Champions with a 7-1 record. Brittany Smart (5'9''-G-85, college: Cedarville) received Co-MVP, Player's Choice MVP, 1st Team NorthEast Region and Lucius Jones took Co Coach of the Year. Columbus now will represent the NorthEast Region in the National Tournament August 3-5 in Miami,Fl.