EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 7/25/2012 1:04:01 AM

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Men News

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  ANDORRA   



U16 European Championship: Haefner paced Gibraltar over Andorra - by Eurobasket News

Andorra U16-Gibraltar U16 43:68

Jake Haefner (185-G/F-97) paced Gibraltar over Andorra at the U16 European Championship in Division C. The hosts of the tournament received 37 points from the player to seal 68:43 victory in Group B.
Gibraltar did not waste time in the start of the game and grabbed 23-9 at the end of the first ten minutes. The hosts added 17-12 in the second period for 40:21 at the halftime. Even in the third period Gibraltar dominated the court and produced a 20-14 surge. Both teams nailed 8 points each in the last stanza for the final result.
Jake Haefner also added 11 rebounds to his 37 points. Jeremy Britto (187-G/F-96) notched 8, while Matthew Martinez added 7. Sergi Jordana replied with 9 points in the losing effort, whilst Christian Blanca Salinas and Aleix Marin Munne poured in 8 each. Sergi Jimenez Marquez ended up with 6 points in a loss.

Andorra U16: Sergi Jordana 9, Christian Blanca Salinas 8, Aleix Marin Munne 8, Sergi Jimenez Marquez 6
Gibraltar U16: Jake Haefner 37+11 rebs, Jeremy Britto 8, Matthew Martinez 7


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  ARGENTINA   


Miller comes back to Banda Norte Rio Cuarto - by Eurobasket Center

Banda Norte Rio Cuarto (TNA) added to their roster 34-year old American power forward Derrick Miller (202-C/F-104kg-78, college: Georgetown, KY). Its actually Millers comeback to Banda Norte as he played here last season. Before he moved to Banda Norte he started 2011-2012 season at Plaza de Nueva Helvecia (Uruguay). While playing 2 games for Plaza he recorded 16.5ppg, 9.0rpg, 1.0apg, 1.0bpg. Then in Feb.12 agreed terms with Banda Norte Rio Cuarto (Argentina-TNA and starting five). He is a very experienced player. Miller played also pro basketball in Austria, Chile, Colombia, Paraguay, Uruguay and USA. He graduated from Georgetown College in 2001 and it will be his 12th season in pro basketball.




Liga A: some teams start their preseason - by Facundo Iatzky

Even there are still two months for the beginniing of next season of Liga a, some teams have already started to train to come in the best possible shape. These are three of the teams that are starting their works this week:
Atenas Cordoba: The head coach of the team, Alejandro Lotterio called their players for next Monday. The players who will start the preseason will be: Bruno Labaque (182-G-77), Matias Lescano (196-G/F-79), Javier Bulfoni (192-G-76), Roman Gonzalez (209-C-78), Diego Guaita, Mariano Fierro, Julian Aprea, Bruno Colli, Tomas Ligorria, Franco Barroso (207-C-94), Daniel Tabbia, Mauricio Prieto plus other young players. Alexis elsener and Robert hornsby will join the team later.
Sionista Parana started to train with the following players: Luis cequeira, Alejandro Zilli, Matias Sandes (201-F/G-84), Luciano Gonzalez (196-F-90), Daniel Hure, Eduardo Spalla (197-F-89), Nicolas Agasse (185-PG-92), Jeremias Sandrini, German Gonzalez, Guillermo Denning, Joel Mas. Josh Pittmann and Jerome meyinsse will join the team in August.
Regatas Corrientes started to train with a few players because Guillermo Kammerichs, Paolo Quinteros, Tony Washam and Djibril Kante will join the team later. The players that are already in corrientes are: Javier Martinez (189-G-78), Pedro Calderon, Nicolas Romano (197-F/C-87), Nicolas Ferreyra, Miguel gerlero, Juan Arrengo, Carlos Buendia (95), Nicolas Brussino (201-G-93), Franco Vieta (189-G-92) and Luciano Tognon.




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  AUSTRALIA   

Standings - ABA

State League Standings
Big V
 1. Ringwood H. 16-3 
 2. Eltham W. 13-5 
 3. Waverley F. 12-7 
 4. Corio Bay 12-7 
 5. Diamond V.E. 9-10 
 6. Hume City 9-10 
 7. Bulleen B. 6-13 
 8. Sherbrooke S. 5-14 
 9. Melbourne 3-16 
Central ABL
 1. Forestville E. 12-4 
 2. Sturt S. 12-4 
 3. N.Adelaide R. 11-5 
 4. W.Adelaide B. 11-5 
 5. Norwood F. 10-6 
 6. Woodville W. 8-8 
 7. C.District L. 6-10 
 8. Southern T. 5-11 
 9. S.Adelaide P. 4-12 
 10. Eastern M. 1-15 
QBL
 1. Rockhampton 9-1 
 2. Mackay M. 9-1 
 3. Ipswich F. 9-3 
 4. Cairns M. 9-4 
 5. Northside W. 7-4 
 6. Townsville H. 7-6 
 7. SW Metro P. 5-6 
 8. Gold Coast R. 4-7 
 9. Bundaberg B. 4-8 
 10. Brisbane C. 4-9 
 11. Gladstone P. 3-8 
 12. Toowoomba 3-8 
 13. Maroochydore 2-10 
SBL
 1. Wanneroo W. 23-2 
 2. Lakeside L. 21-4 
 3. Cockburn C. 16-8 
 4. East Perth E. 16-9 
 5. Mandurah M. 16-9 
 6. Perth R. 14-11 
 7. Willetton T. 12-13 
 8. Goldfield G. 11-14 
 9. Geraldton B. 11-14 
 10. Perry Lakes H. 11-14 
 11. Kalamunda E.S. 10-14 
 12. Stirling S. 7-18 
 13. Rockingham F. 3-22 
 14. SW Slammers 3-22 
SEABL-East
 1. Dandenong 19-5 
 2. Geelong S. 18-5 
 3. Bendigo B. 14-9 
 4. Sandringham S. 13-11 
 5. Frankston B. 12-11 
 6. Brisbane S. 8-16 
 7. Canberra G. 1-24 
SEABL-South
 1. Nunawading S. 15-8 
 2. Knox R. 14-8 
 3. Albury W.B. 13-11 
 4. Hobart C. 13-12 
 5. Kilsyth C. 12-12 
 6. Ballarat M. 11-12 
 7. NW Tasmania 8-17 
 8. Mt Gambier 7-17 
WARATAH
 1. Newcastle H. 14-3 
 2. Norths Bears 14-4 
 3. Manly Warr. 11-6 
 4. Illawarra H. 11-8 
 5. Cent.Coast C. 10-9 
 6. Bankstown B. 9-8 
 7. Sydney C. 9-8 
 8. Maitland M. 9-9 
 9. Hills H. 7-10 
 10. Parramatta W. 4-12 
 11. Colonial Hotel 4-14 
 12. Sutherland S. 3-14 

Regular Season: Round 17

BIG V

Jul. 22: Waverley F. - Hume City 97-85
Jul. 21: Eltham W. - Bulleen B. 85-78
Jul. 21: Ringwood H. - Corio Bay 85-65
Jul. 22: Sherbrooke S. - Diamond V.E. 77-90
Jul. 21: Diamond V.E. - Melbourne 105-99

Central ABL

Jul. 21: S.Adelaide P. - C.District L. 80-92
Jul. 21: Norwood F. - Woodville W. 79-62
Jul. 21: Eastern M. - Sturt S. 77-82
Jul. 21: Southern T. - W.Adelaide B. 71-88
Jul. 21: N.Adelaide R. - Forestville E. 59-67

QBL

Jul. 22: Rockhampton - Townsville H. 97-80
Jul. 21: Ipswich F. - Maroochydore 90-64
Jul. 22: Northside W. - Bundaberg B. 79-73
Jul. 21: SW Metro P. - Cairns M. 78-85
Jul. 21: Gladstone P. - Townsville H. 77-89
Jul. 21: Toowoomba - Gold Coast R. 77-87
Jul. 22: Gold Coast R. - Cairns M. 63-89
Jul. 21: Brisbane C. - Bundaberg B. 60-83

SEABL

Jul. 21: Dandenong - Hobart C. 94-70
Jul. 21: Brisbane S. - Sandringham S. 91-84
Jul. 21: Geelong S. - Ballarat M. 89-78
Jul. 21: Nunawading S. - Canberra G. 87-67
Jul. 20: Mt Gambier - Kilsyth C. 83-74
Jul. 20: Albury W.B. - Hobart C. 77-61
Jul. 20: Frankston B. - Canberra G. 63-56
Jul. 21: Kilsyth C. - Knox R. 61-83
Jul. 22: Ballarat M. - NW Tasmania 101-63
Jul. 21: Bendigo B. - NW Tasmania 100-64

WARATAH

Jul. 21: Newcastle H. - Hills H. 88-80
Jul. 21: Illawarra H. - Sydney C. 77-70
Jul. 21: Norths Bears - Maitland M. 77-65
Jul. 21: Sutherland S. - Bankstown B. 73-87
Jul. 21: Parramatta W. - Manly Warr. 69-70

Regular Season: Round 18

BIG V

Jul. 28: Corio Bay - Eltham W.
Jul. 28: Bulleen B. - Sherbrooke S.
Jul. 28: Ringwood H. - Diamond V.E.
Jul. 28: Melbourne - Waverley F.
Jul. 29: Eltham W. - Hume City

Central ABL

Jul. 28: W.Adelaide B. - Norwood F.
Jul. 28: S.Adelaide P. - Sturt S.
Jul. 28: Woodville W. - Eastern M.
Jul. 28: C.District L. - N.Adelaide R.
Jul. 28: Forestville E. - Southern T.

QBL

Jul. 27: Cairns M. - Mackay M.
Jul. 27: Maroochydore - Rockhampton
Jul. 28: SW Metro P. - Gladstone P.
Jul. 28: Northside W. - Toowoomba
Jul. 28: Brisbane C. - Ipswich F.
Jul. 28: Townsville H. - Mackay M.
Jul. 28: Bundaberg B. - Rockhampton
Jul. 29: Gold Coast R. - Gladstone P.

SEABL

Jul. 27: Hobart C. - NW Tasmania
Jul. 27: Bendigo B. - Knox R.
Jul. 27: Mt Gambier - Albury W.B.
Jul. 28: Brisbane S. - Bendigo B.
Jul. 28: Canberra G. - Ballarat M.
Jul. 28: Frankston B. - Knox R.
Jul. 28: Sandringham S. - Dandenong
Jul. 28: Geelong S. - Albury W.B.
Jul. 28: Nunawading S. - Kilsyth C.
Jul. 29: Kilsyth C. - Geelong S.

WARATAH

Jul. 28: Parramatta W. - Sutherland S.
Jul. 28: Colonial Hotel - Hills H.
Jul. 28: Manly Warr. - Maitland M.
Jul. 28: Illawarra H. - Bankstown B.
Jul. 28: Newcastle H. - Cent.Coast C.
Jul. 28: Sydney C. - Norths Bears


Kings officially sign Kevin Smith - by Hugh McAuliffe

The Sydney Kings have finalised their contracted playing roster for the 2012/13 iiNet NBL Championship Season following the signing of American-born Kevin Smith (196-F-79, college: Lee).

Smith joins the Kings as a local-based player having acquired New Zealand residency during his time playing in the New Zealand NBL where he has had stints with the Bay Hawks, Auckland Pirates and the Harbour Heat.

Smiths signing with the Kings comes off the back of a very productive season with the Harbour Heat where he averaged 16.3 points per game to go with 4.7 rebounds per game. Kevin will be no stranger to Australia having previously played in both the Big V with the Mildura Heat and the SEABL with the Mount Gambier Pioneers.

In his time with the Heat, Smith was named the Conference MVP following a stellar season which saw him lead the in scoring (31ppg) and rebounding (13.9rpg) and lead his team to an undefeated season.

Smith is genuinely excited to wear the purple and gold and he is determined to make the most of the opportunity presented to him by the Kings Head Coach Shane Heal who worked Smith out extensively prior to offering him a contract.

I have been working extremely hard to get such and opportunity and I look forward to making the most of this chance. Sydney has a very proud history and I am delighted to be a part of the program, Smith said.

Kings new Head Coach, Shane Heal was equally excited by his latest acquisition stating that Kevin will add tremendous value to the new look Kings squad.

Kevin will bring plenty of experience to our bench as a back-up small forward. He is very athletic, can hit the mid-range jump shot and will definitely add to our defensive toughness," said Heal. "Kevin is very hungry for this opportunity and I am certainly excited to have him as part of the Kings roster.

Smith will arrive in Sydney in mid-August in time for the start of the Kings Official Pre-Season Training which will commence with a week-long camp in Terrigal.


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  AUSTRIA   


Furstenfeld Panthers keep Lorenzo O'Neal and Paul Radakovics - by Eurobasket News

Furstenfeld Panthers announced signing of a 1-year contract extension with Lorenzo O'Neal (188-G-88) and Paul Radakovics (191-G-88).
Lorenzo O'Neal is the team captain who averaged 7.5 points, 3.3 assists and 2.5 rebounds for 33 games last season. He became a Panther two years ago. In their first season together O'Neal had 4.4 ppg and 1.9 rpg in 41 games. Before Furstenfeld, he played for Vienna, Mattersburg, Gmunden and Kapfenberg. O'Neal also played for Austrian youth National Teams in the past.
Paul Radakovics had 3 ppg for 33 games last season with Furstenfeld. It was their first year together. In 2010/11, the guard played for Wels and before that he spent five years with Oberwart. In the past, Radakovics played for Austrian U20 and U18 National Team.
Earlier this summer, Kevin Payton (Xion Dukes Klosterneuburg) and Bernhard Weber (Carefuel Gussing Knights) left Furstenfeld.


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  BALTIC LEAGUE   


Deividas Dulkys heads to Lietuvos Rytas - by Eurobasket News

Deividas Dulkys (198-SG-88) heads to Lietuvos Rytas for the next season. The Lithuanian player comes back to Europe.
In 2008-2009 he started for Florida St. (NCAA) and averaged 3.6ppg. In 2009-2010 for Florida St. (NCAA, starting five) he improved to 8.7ppg, 2.3rpg, 1.1apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 41.4%, 3PT: 39.7%, FT: 69.0%. In 2010-2011 his stats read 7.3ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.2apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 36.6%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 52.0%. The last season he showed 7.0ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.3apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 51.6%, 3PT: 37.7%, FT: 80.0%.
For his Awards/Achievements it is a must to mention that Deividas Dulkys became ACC Tournament Finalist -09 and reached NCAA Sweet 16 -11. Moreover last season he was ACC Tournament Winner -12.
Deividas Dulkys is a member of the Lithuanian National Team -12. At the Olympic Games Additional Qualifying Round in Caracas (Venezuela) -12 he averaged 1.5ppg.


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  BOSNIA   


Muhamed Pasalic out of the NT due to injury - by Eurobasket News

Muhamed Pasalic (192-G-87) will not make debut with the Bosnian National Team this summer. The player still recovers from toe injury and will have to miss 15 more days. The injury is not serious, but Pasalic needs to rest.
Muhamed Pasalic spent last season with the Greek squad Kavala. He shined with 10.1 ppg, 2.4 rpg and 2.2 apg for 26 games in A1. It was his first year abroad. From 2007 until the last summer Pasalic was a member of Bosna ASA BHT. The won the championship title together in 2008. Bosna also was the Cup winner in 2009 and 2010. Pasalic played 28 games for the club in their last season together averaging 13.3 points, 4.7 assists and 2.2 rebounds. He also added 11 ppg in two EuroChallenge qualification games. Pasalic played for Vogosca MIMS from 2005 to 2007.


FIBA rejects Sulejmanovic request - by Nedzad Kladusak

FIBA has rejected the application of KSBIH to register Emir Sulejmanovic (203-C/F-95) for the upcoming U18 B EC in Sarajevo.
Sulejmanovic has previously played for Finland but decided to play for his homecountry BIH.
KSBIH tries to get a letter of clearance by FInland but so far no contact could have been established.
In a similar case Edin Alispahic has received the permission to play for Slovenia despite having played several minutes during U16 EC.
After a year without a letter of clearance of KSBIH FIBA decided that it has to protect to player giving him the right to join another federation.
According to that regulation Sulejmanovic could join KSBIH next year.


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  BULGARIA   


Bulgaria U18 finish Istanbul tournament with victory - by Eurobasket News

Bulgaria U18 - Egypt U18 73:68

Bulgarian U18 National Team just finished the tournament in Istanbul. They celebrated victory on the final day of the competition. Bulgaria overcame their Egyptian counterparts to clinch the 5th position in the ladder. Egypt finished in the sixth place. Kris Minkov (197-F-94) stepped up with 23 points and 10 rebounds to lead Bulgaria.
Egypt got to the better start. They enjoyed a 21:16 lead after ten minutes. The teams traded baskets throughout the second quarter. Egypt managed to take a 5-point lead at the interval 38:33. Things hardly changed in the third term. The teams traded baskets as Bulgaria still trailed by five points with ten minutes remaining 54:49. But the Europeans went on a decisive 24:14 run in the fourth frame and sealed the victory at the end. Nikolay Stoyanov (195-F-94) accounted for 14 points, while Deyan Karamfilov (179-PG-94) added 12 points in the win.


European Basketball Tour 2012, Day 1 Recap - by Maria Mitzova

Bulgaria - Turkey 65:70
Turkey won the first game of the day, for the 2012 Sofia edition of European Basketball Tour, against the host Bulgaria.
Two young teams met on the court in Armeec Arena in Sofia, but Turkey showed more persistence at the end. Turkish team had a great 11-0 run for a start, but then lost it, and the game went tied almost to the end.
Semih Erden top-scored for the winners with 17 points, while Sinan Guler and Ilkan Karaman (205-F-90, agency: Beo Basket) added 12 each. Emir Preldzic collected 8 points and 7 rebounds, while Goksenin Koksal posted 7.

GAME STATS

Ukraine - Poland 81:61
In the second game for Day 1, Ukraine outshined Poland for a comfortable 81:61 win. Poland was without Macej Lampe, but with star center Marcin Gortat, but still Ukraine prevailed easily.
Ukrainians showed some impressive ball movement, and nice perimeter scoring, and led by more than 20 at the break. Nothing major changed in the second half, and that showed in the final score.
Sergii Gladyr scored 17 points for 14 minutes on the floor, while Mihal Ignerski was top scorer with 18 for Poland. Marcin Gortat ended with 15 points and 12 rebounds.

GAME STATS

In Day 2 Turkey will face Ukraine, while Poland will take on Bulgaria.


PHOTOS FROM DAY 1


Cedric Simmons joined the Bulgarian national team - by Christomir Rackov

American player Cedric Simmons (206-F/C-86, college: N.Carolina St.) joined Bulgaria's men national team after he arrived in Sofia yesterday. The center who has Bulgarian nationality will probably play for the team led by Rosen Barchovski in the Eurobasket 2013 qualifications set to begin in August.

Last season Simmons played for Spanish team Estudiantes Madrid and this summer he participated in the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas. The condition of the 207-cm, 26-year-old American is still unknown, but the coaches of the team hope he's in good shape.

Also, next week the team will be joined by two more players - some of the best young talents of Bulgaria. Those are the captain of the U20 Bulgarian national team Pavlin Ivanov (195-G-93, agency: Beo Basket) and another member of that team, power forward Dimitar Dimitrov (202-F-93, agency: Interperformances). Together with their teammates they won promotion to Division A of the EuroBasket for Men U20, after they reached the semifinals last week in the Division B championship hosted by Bulgaria.


Turkey defeat the hosts in Sofia - by Eurobasket News

Bulgaria-Turkey 65:70

Turkey defeat the hosts in Sofia at the start of the International tournaments with 4 teams participating. The Turkish side grabbed 70:65 win over Bulgaria in Day 1.
Turkey started with 19-14 and led 3 points at the halftime. Bulgaria played better in the third frame and produced a 17-15 surge. Turkey led 1-point entering the last stanza and managed to increase the lead to 5 points. The team stayed tough at the end and won the opener.
Semih Erden (211-C-87) top-scored for the winners with 17 points, while Sinan Guler (193-G-83, agency: 1x1 Sports, college: Carroll, MT) and Ilkan Karaman (205-F-90, agency: Beo Basket) added 12 each. Emir Preldzic (205-F-87, agency: Beo Basket) collected 8 points and 7 rebounds, while Goksenin Koksal posted 7.
In another game Ukraine overcame Poland 81:61. In Day 2 Turkey will face Ukraine, while Poland will take on Bulgaria.


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  CROATIA   


U16 European Championship: Croatia beat Latvia for third straight win - by Eurobasket News

Croatia U16 - Latvia U16 76:72

Croatia celebrated the third straight win at the U16 European Championship. The reigning champions defeated Latvia to improve at 2-2 record in Group E. Latvia slipped at 0-4 record after the loss.
Croatia led by three points at the first intermission 23:20. The Balkan team extended the margin in the second quarter. They posted a 35:31 halftime advantage. The teams exchanged baskets throughout the third term. Croatia ensured a 4-point lead at the final intermission. Croatia secured an 8-point cushion with under three minutes remaining. Ervins Meznieks (184-F-96) and Cima put Latvia within three but Croatia hung on to clinch the victory at the end. Lovro Mazalin (198-SF-97) tallied 27 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists for Croatia. Marko Arapovic (207-C/F-96) added 25 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. Ervins Meznieks answered with 20 points for Latvia. Klavs Cavars (195-F/C-96) contributed 18 points in the loss.

Croatia U16: Lovro Mazalin 27+10 boards, Marko Arapovic 25, Ivan Vucic (195-SG-96) 14
Latvia U16: Ervins Meznieks 20, Klavs Cavars 18


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  CZECH REPUBLIC   


BK Usti nad Labem strengthened its roster - by Matt Haufer

SLUNETA Usti nad Labem announced several off-season moves: They signed point guard Al Nolen (185-G-89, agency: Fierce Sports Management, college: Minnesota) to be the successor to Mattoni NBL Player of the Year Thad McFadden. The former University of Minnesota floor general last played in the German BBL for LTi Giessen 46ers and had a stint in the NBA D-League before that. He is more of a pass-first type of playmaker than the high-scoring McFadden.
Also, elegant wing player Brad Reese (198-F-88, college: Texas Tech) will be back for a second season in Usti. He averaged 12.9ppg, 5.8rpg and 0.9bpg in 2011/2012 and his numbers should go up with more experience in Europe and a full preseason.


BK Prostejov Completes Roster with Signing of Austin Dufault - by Surujh Roopnarine

After learning definitively that Bertengeh Gadri-Nicholson (208-C-83, college: Denver) would not return for a third season in Prostejov after he signed with Energa Czarni earlier this month, club management has found what they hope to be a key post player in American forward Austin Dufault (205-F-90). Dufault, 6-9 / 225lbs, begins his professional career in the Czech Republic after a solid four-year career at the University of Colorado. Born January 3, 1990 in Dickinson, North Dakota the 22-year old Dufault started all-four of his years at Colorado, setting a school record for career games played with 136, on his way to becoming the 19th player in school history to score 1,000 points and collect 500 rebounds. His best season was this past senior campaign in which he played in 36 games, averaging 11.1 points and 4.4 rebounds while shooting 48.6% from the field and 35.9% from three (the best percentage of his career from that distance). With this signing Prostejov has completed the downsizing of its roster in terms of salary for the upcoming season. The three-time consecutive silver medalists in the NBL will enter the 2012-13 season with a pared down budget and a solid mixture of Czech and Slovak players augmented with returning Slovenian point guard Matej Venta (187-PG-84) and now Austin Dufault. Looking to quicken their pace of play, club manager Petr Fridrich had good reports on the shooting ability and athleticism of Dufault, making him a good fit for the club. American imports from last season, Jamar Smith (191-SG-87, college: S.Indiana) (Boston Celtics Summer League / Spain??), Travis Peterson (208-C/F-85, college: Samford) (BK Goverla Ukraine) and Nicholson (Energa Czarni Poland) have all moved on for the upcoming season.


U16 European Championship: Russia gain second straight win in Group G - by Eurobasket News

Russia U16 - Czech Republic U16 76:66

Russia fired past Czech Republic in Group G of U16 European Championship. Ilya Karpenkov (200-C-97) finished with 14 points and 12 rebounds to pace the winners. Russia climbed at 2-0 record, while Czech Republic slipped at 0-2 after the loss.
Czech Republic got to a slightly better start. They grabbed a 13:11 lead after ten minutes. But Russia turned things around in the second quarter. They unloaded 24 points to ensure a 35:27 halftime lead. Czech Republic slowed their opponents down in the third term. Russia scored just 12 points and Czech Republic eked out a 2-point lead 49:47 at the final break. But it was not enough. Aleksandr Zuev (193-PG-96) opened the final frame with a three-pointer and Russia spurred in front. They quickly opened a double-digit lead and cruised to the victory at the end. Pavel Afanasev (194-SG-96) and Aleksandr Zuev provided 14 points each for Russia. Matej Svoboda (200-PF-96) answered with 24 points and 11 rebounds for Czech Republic. David Skranc (196-C-96) netted 15 points in the loss.

Russia U16: Ilya Karpenkov 14+12 boards, Pavel Afanasev 14, Aleksandr Zuev 14
Czech Republic U16: Matej Svoboda 24+11 boards, David Skranc 15


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  D-LEAGUE   


Skyforce candidates for coaching positions - by Eurobasket News

Skyforce owner and president Mike Heineman says the team has interviewed and met with eight potential candidates to replace departing coach Mo McHone.

They are:

Joel Abelson, associate head coach of the Idaho Stampede

Jeff Bower, former general manager of the New Orleans Hornets who held the head coaching position during the most of the 2009-10 season

Gene Cross, Iowa Energy assistant coach and former head coach at University of Toledo

Jason Glover, associate head coach of Tulsa Shock in WNBA. Previously was associate head coach for Reno Bighorns of NBADL

Taylor Jenkins, assistant coach of Austin Toros of NBADL

Joe Meyer, served as head coach of Fort Wayne Mad Ants of NBADL from 2009-2012. He is the all-time wins leader in the NBADL.

Sean Rooks, assistant coach for Skyforce last season. Previously was assistant for New Mexico and Bakersfield. Thirteen-year NBA veteran.

Douglas Marty, spent time as head coach of teams overseas, notably Luxembourg. Coach of Charleston Lowgaters in the NBADL from 2002-04.

Courtesy of www.argusleader.com


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  DOMINICAN REPUBLIC   


Robert Glenn is having a great season in LNB - by Kerwin Abreu

Robert Glenn (201-F/C-89, college: IUPUI) is playing as a foreign player for the Indios in the LNB. Glenn is having a career start and displaying great basket skills close to the basket.

He is posting 21.3 points per game, 4.2 asists and grabbing 8.3 rebounds. His team is 3-1 in first place in the north.

In Glenns last game vs Metros de Santiago, he belted 35 points with 7 rebounds. He is shooting for 75% from the field in 4 games.

If he continues playing that well, we will see him running for the league MVP.


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  DR CONGO   


Orleans gets bigger with Osby Bambale - by Eurobasket News

Bambale Osby (203-C/F-86, college: Maryland) stays in France, but not with Maurienne. The American/DR Congolese big guy signed a deal with Orleans. He had 14.8 ppg, 9.4 rpg and 1.5 bpg for 37 games with Maurienne last season. Bambale was named to Eurobasket.com All-French ProB 3rd Team -12. Before Maurienne, he spent some time with Puerto Rican team Bayamon.
In 2010/11 season Bambale Osby played for TTU/Kalev Tallinn. He led the team to Estonian league and Cup Semifinals. Bambale had 16.4 ppg, 10 rpg and 1.2 bpg for 21 games in KML. The player was even better in Baltic league averaging 19 points and 11.7 rebounds. He was named Eurobasket.com All-Estonian League Player of the Year -11 and Eurobasket.com All-Baltic League Forward of the Year -11. In the past, Bambale played in Austria, Israel and Romania.


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  EUROCUP   


Crvena Zvezda signs F Marko Simonovic - by Eurobasket News

Marko Simonovic (202-F-86, agency: Beo Basket) is back to Serbia after four seasons. The 26-year-old forward penned a deal with Crvena Zvezda Belgrade. Simonovic arrives to Crvena Zvezda from ALBA Berlin, where he had 9.3 ppg and 3.1 rpg for 12 EuroCup games last season. The player registered 6.7 ppg and 2.6 rpg for 37 German league games. From 2008 until the last summer Marko Simonovic played for Buducnost Podgorica. They won three championship tiles in Montenegro and three Cup trophies. He shined with 13.8 ppg and 5.2 rpg for 27 Adriatic league games in their last season together. Simonovic was named Eurobasket.com All-Montenegrin League Forward of the Year -11. In the past, he played for Hemofarm, Oostende Ergonom and Lavovi.


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  EUROLEAGUE   


Jonas Maciulis joined Panathinaikos - by Giorgos Diploidis

Jonas Maciulis (200-G/F-85) agreed in terms with Panathinaikos Athens The former Greek and Euroleague champions were looking for a good swingman and they found them by selecting the Lithuanian player.

Last season Maciulis started with Baltai Kaunas were in 7 matches in Lithuanian league had 19.6ppg, 6.9rpg and 2.4apg. Then in April moved in Siena where in 4 matches in Italy had 7.3ppg, 1.5rpg and 1.8apg.

The "Greens" are trying to sign the wanted players as soon as possible in order Argiris Pedoulakis to prepare a team with a lot of new players and having the difficult target to replace Zeljko Obradovic with the best possible way.


Fenerbahce Ulker agreed with Siena on McCalebb's buy-out fee - by Ugur Turker

Source close to the situation claimed that Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul and Montepaschi Siena agreed on Bo McCalebb (178-PG-85, college: New Orleans)'s buy-out fee. Yesterday, GM of Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul Kemal Dincer announced that they agreed with Bo McCalebb and David Andersen over personal issues and are waiting for buy-out agreement with Montepaschi Siena. It is most likely that Bo McCalebb is going to play in Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul for next three years under his ex-coach from Montepaschi Siena; Simone Pianigiani . Official announcement is expected to release in 24-48 hours.


Besiktas Istanbul add Tutku Acik - by Ugur Turker

Besiktas Istanbul signed with Tutku Acik (194-G-80) from Galatasaray Medical Park. Istanbul team which has only 3 players under contract started to complete its 2012-13 roster. Yesterday, GM Haluk Yildirim had said that there would be some signings in next couple of days. Besiktas Istanbul announded Tutku Acik movement in official web site " Besiktas Istanbul which will participate THY Euroleague signed with Tutku Acik as first transfer. There is an one year agreement between sides. " Tutku Acik played 3.0 ppg and 2.7 ass in Euroleague under Galatasaray Jersey.


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  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U16   

M-Standings - Group A

Standings
Group E
1. Italy4-0
2. Turkey3-1
3. Croatia2-2
4. Spain2-2
5. Ukraine1-3
6. Latvia0-4
Group F
1. Germany3-1
2. Serbia3-1
3. Poland2-2
4. France2-2
5. Greece1-3
6. Lithuania1-3
Group G (places 13-16)
1. Russia2-0
2. Slovenia1-1
3. U.Kingdom1-1
4. Czech Rep.0-2

Second Stage: Round 5

E

Jul. 24: ITA - UKR 83-65
Jul. 24: LAT - CRO 72-76
Jul. 24: TUR - ESP 71-56

F

Jul. 24: POL - LTU 77-69
Jul. 24: GER - GRE 58-47
Jul. 24: SRB - FRA 56-53

G

Jul. 24: SLO - ENG 83-69
Jul. 24: CZE - RUS 66-76

Second Stage: Round 6

E

Jul. 25: UKR - CRO
Jul. 25: TUR - LAT
Jul. 25: ESP - ITA

F

Jul. 25: SRB - POL
Jul. 25: GRE - LTU
Jul. 25: GER - FRA

G

Jul. 25: ENG - RUS
Jul. 25: SLO - CZE


Stats Leaders - Group A

Points Per Game
 Marko ARAPOVIC
  (207-C/F-96)
  Avg: 20.6
 1. Arapovic, CRO20.6 
 2. Svoboda, CZE20.0 
 3. Mazalin, CRO17.6 
 4. Garcia, ESP17.0 
 5. Stamatis, GRE16.4 
 6. Oliva, ITA15.6 
 7. Kobets, UKR15.0 
 8. Avenitis, LAT14.8 
 9. Wimberg, GER14.4 
 10. Kavas, SLO14.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Domantas SABONIS
  (199-PF-96)
  Avg: 15.2
 1. Sabonis, LTU15.2 
 2. Lazarevic, SRB10.6 
 3. Oliva, ITA10.0 
 4. Karpenkov, RUS9.8 
 5. Donzelli, ITA9.2 
 6. Arapovic, CRO8.6 
 7. Malmanis, LAT8.0 
 8. Maleyko, RUS8.0 
 9. Pruefer, POL8.0 
 10. Oghide, ENG8.0 
Assists Per Game
 Dominykas ZUPKAUSKAS
  (184-PG-96)
  Avg: 7
 1. Zupkauskas, LTU7.0 
 2. Akodo, ENG5.8 
 3. Gavrilov, RUS5.0 
 4. Zywert, POL4.8 
 5. Gecim, TUR4.4 
 6. Mazalin, CRO4.2 
 7. Schmitt, GER4.2 
 8. Podkovyrov, UKR4.0 
 9. Cima, LAT4.0 
 10. Ory, FRA3.8 
Steals Per Game
 Marko ARAPOVIC
  (207-C/F-96)
  Avg: 3.4
 1. Arapovic, CRO3.4 
 2. Zywert, POL3.4 
 3. Wlodarczyk, POL3.2 
 4. Donzelli, ITA2.8 
 5. Schmitt, GER2.4 
 6. Svoboda, CZE2.2 
 7. Pryimak, UKR2.2 
 8. Pavlovic, SRB2.2 
 9. Garcia, ESP2.0 
 10. Zywert, POL2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Klavs CAVARS
  (195-F/C-96)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Cavars, LAT2.4 
 2. Wimberg, GER2.2 
 3. Papagiannis, GRE2.2 
 4. Skranc, CZE1.8 
 5. Pruefer, POL1.8 
 6. Ulubay, TUR1.7 
 7. Oliva, ITA1.6 
 8. Malmanis, LAT1.6 
 9. Sabonis, LTU1.6 
 10. Trovato, ITA1.4 


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

Group E
Turkey - Spain 71-56
Turkey kept piling up victories at the second round of U16 European Championship. They knocked down Spain tonight to take 3-1 record in Group E. Spain fell at 2-2 record after the defeat. Turkey left their opponents behind in the opening quarter. They triggered a 25:13 run in the first ten minutes. Spain however quickly stopped the rot. They answered with a 21:13 rally of their own to narrow the gap 4-point mark at halftime 38:34. Turkey stiffened their defence in the third frame. They held Spain to 11 points and entered the final period up by 5 points 50:45. Spain managed just 11 points in the fourth quarter and had to surrender at the end. Ediz Oktay (192-G-96) and Mert Cevik (198-G-96) nailed 14 points each for Turkey. Okben Ulubay added 11 points in the victory. Marc Garcia (194-F-96) answered with 13 points for Spain. Marc Bauza and Brais Gago netted 9 points each in the loss.

Latvia - Croatia 72-76
Croatia celebrated the third straight win at the U16 European Championship. The reigning champions defeated Latvia to improve at 2-2 record in Group E. Latvia slipped at 0-4 record after the loss. Croatia led by three points at the first intermission 23:20. The Balkan team extended the margin in the second quarter. They posted a 35:31 halftime advantage. The teams exchanged baskets throughout the third term. Croatia ensured a 4-point lead at the final intermission. Croatia secured an 8-point cushion with under three minutes remaining. Ervins Meznieks (184-F-96) and Cima put Latvia within three but Croatia hung on to clinch the victory at the end. Lovro Mazalin (198-SF-97) tallied 27 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists for Croatia. Marko Arapovic (207-C/F-96) added 25 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. Ervins Meznieks answered with 20 points for Latvia. Klavs Cavars contributed 18 points in the loss.

Italy - Ukraine 83-65
Italy stayed on the winning track at the U16 European Championship. They knocked down Ukraine to improve at 4-0 record in Group E. Federico Mussini (179-PG-96) stepped up with 22 points for the Azzurri as they remained on top of the ladder. Ukraine suffered the third straight loss at the tournament and slipped at 1-3 record. Italy held Ukraine to 12 points in the opening quarter to take a 7-point lead. They boosted the margin in the second quarter. Italy established a 43:24 halftime buffer. Italy stayed in charge throughout the third quarter. They arrived at the final intermission up by 21 points. Ukraine outscored the Azzurri in the final frame but could not threaten the margin. Daniel Donzelli (199-SG-96) notched 14 points, while Pierfrancesco Oliva added 10 points for the winners. Sergii Pryimak (200-PF-96) answered with 22 points for Ukraine. Kyrylo Podkovyrov had 13 points in defeat.

Group F
Serbia - France 56-53
Serbia earned the second straight win at the second stage of U16 European Championship. They held off France to improve at 3-1 record in Group F. Nikola Pavlovic (199-PF-96) accounted for 15 points and 7 rebounds to lead the winners. France fell at 2-2 record after the loss. France enjoyed a 14:11 lead after ten minutes. Serbia outscored their opponents to narrow the gap at 2-point mark at halftime 25:27. Serbia held France to 7 points in the third term to surge ahead. The Balkan team established a 39:34 lead at the final break. France got within two points with 5 seconds remaining in regulation but Ivan Daskalovic hit a free throw and then Etienne Ory (175-PG-96) missed a three-pointer as Serbia sealed the win at the end. Ilija Dokovic (185-G-96) nailed 10 points, while Ivan Daskalovic and Vukan Stojanovic netted 8 points each in the win. Etienne Ory answered with 12 points for France. Felix Michel had 9 points in the losing effort.

Germany - Greece 58-47
Germany posted the first win at the second stage of U16 European Championship. They held off Greek counterparts to climb at 3-1 record in Group F. Greece fell at 1-3 record. Andreas Obst (190-SG-96) was pivotal for Germany with 20 points. Germany and Greece exchanged baskets throughout the opening quarter. The scoreboard read 14:14 at the first break. Things hardly changed in the second quarter. The teams went neck and neck as they entered the second half tied at 23. Germany pulled ahead in the third quarter. They held Greece to 13 points in the period to secure a 3-point lead at the final intermission. Germany limited the Hellenes to only 11 points in the fourth term and sealed the victory at the end. Jan Wimberg (202-G-96) had 11 points, while Niklas Kiel added 8 points and 17 rebounds for the winners. Dimitrios Stamatis (192-G-96) answered with 13 points for Greece. Vasileios Toliopoulos had 11 points in the loss.

Poland - Lithuania 77-69
Poland registered the second straight win at the start of the second stage at U16 European Championship. They knocked down Lithuanian counterparts to improve at 2-2 record in the ladder. Marek Zywert (185-SG-96) once again stepped up for the Polish team scoring 23 points as they stayed hopeful of playoff appearance. Lithuania fell at 1-3 record after the loss. Poland earned a 16:13 lead at the first break. Lithuania adjusted the tempo and unloaded 24 points in the second period to take a 37:36 halftime lead. Poland however regained the advantage late in the third quarter. They entered the fourth frame up by a single point 56:55. Marek Zywert and Filip Pruefer organized a 10:0 run as Poland posted a 66:57 lead midway through the final frame. Lithuania trimmed the deficit at 2-point mark but Kamil Zywert knocked down three free throws late in regulation as Poland sealed the victory at the end. Artur Wlodarczyk (174-PG-96) netted 11 points, while Filip Pruefer and Kamil Zywert added 10 points each for the winners. Antanas Krimelis (191-SF-96) answered with 24 points for Lithuania. Domantas Sabonis had 15 points and 27 rebounds in the loss.

Group G
Czech Republic - Russia 66-76
Russia fired past Czech Republic in Group G of U16 European Championship. Ilya Karpenkov (200-C-97) finished with 14 points and 12 rebounds to pace the winners. Russia climbed at 2-0 record, while Czech Republic slipped at 0-2 after the loss. Czech Republic got to a slightly better start. They grabbed a 13:11 lead after ten minutes. But Russia turned things around in the second quarter. They unloaded 24 points to ensure a 35:27 halftime lead. Czech Republic slowed their opponents down in the third term. Russia scored just 12 points and Czech Republic eked out a 2-point lead 49:47 at the final break. But it was not enough. Aleksandr Zuev (193-PG-96) opened the final frame with a three-pointer and Russia spurred in front. They quickly opened a double-digit lead and cruised to the victory at the end. Pavel Afanasev (194-SG-96) and Aleksandr Zuev provided 14 points each for Russia. Matej Svoboda (200-PF-96) answered with 24 points and 11 rebounds for Czech Republic. David Skranc netted 15 points in the loss.

Slovenia - United Kingdom 83-69
Slovenia posted the first win at the U16 European Championship. They knocked down England to improve at 1-1 record in Group G. Nejc Zupan (203-PG-96) came up with 19 points to lead the charge. Slovenia led by 6 points at the first intermission 22:16. England cut the deficit in the second quarter. They narrowed the gap at just 2-point mark at the interval 38:40. England denied the deficit in the third term. They knotted things up at 56 with ten minutes remaining. However Slovenia tipped off the fourth frame on a 14:2 run to clear off. They never looked back again cruising to the victory at the end. Matej Kavas (193-G-96) had 17 points and 12 rebounds, while Grega Sajevic added 15 points for the winners. Joe Mvuezolo (193-SF-96) answered with 16 points and 9 rebounds for England. Ikponmwosa Oghide and Dwayne Lautier-Ogunleye netted 13 points each in the loss.


Division C: Results and Stats from Day 1 in Gibraltar - by Eurobasket News

Andorra U16-Gibraltar U16 43:68

Jake Haefner (185-G/F-97) paced Gibraltar over Andorra at the U16 European Championship in Division C. The hosts of the tournament received 37 points from the player to seal 68:43 victory in Group B.
Gibraltar did not waste time in the start of the game and grabbed 23-9 at the end of the first ten minutes. The hosts added 17-12 in the second period for 40:21 at the halftime. Even in the third period Gibraltar dominated the court and produced a 20-14 surge. Both teams nailed 8 points each in the last stanza for the final result.
Jake Haefner also added 11 rebounds to his 37 points. Jeremy Britto (187-G/F-96) notched 8, while Matthew Martinez added 7. Sergi Jordana replied with 9 points in the losing effort, whilst Christian Blanca Salinas and Aleix Marin Munne poured in 8 each. Sergi Jimenez Marquez ended up with 6 points in a loss.

Andorra U16: Sergi Jordana 9, Christian Blanca Salinas 8, Aleix Marin Munne 8, Sergi Jimenez Marquez 6
Gibraltar U16: Jake Haefner 37+11 rebs, Jeremy Britto 8, Matthew Martinez 7

Malta U16-San Marino U16 48:68

San Marino starts the winning account in Division C of the U16 European Championship. The team overcame Malta 68:48 in the opener.
Malta opened the game with 18-17, but could not keep the lead at the end of the half. San Marino replied with 19-5 in the second period and grabbed 36:23 after Franciosis jump shot. Moreover San Marino added 17-11 in the third period for 53:34 advantage. Igor Biordi (200-C-96) and Attard started the last quarter accounts for their teams and Caruana reduced to 16 points. Barrena closed the game with 5 consecutive points to seal the victory.
Igor Biordi stepped up with 20 points and 16 rebounds, while Giannotti nailed 17. Barrena ended up with 9 points and 10 rebounds, whilst Fabbri notched 7. Caruana delivered 15 points in defeat. Micallef notched 8 and Carabott chipped in with 6.

Malta U16: Caruana 15, Micallef 8, Carabott 6
San Marino U16: Igor Biordi 20+16 rebs, Giannotti 17, Barrena 9+10 rebs, Fabbri 7

Principality of Monaco U16-Wales U16 53:49

Principality of Monaco edge Wales in the opener of the U16 European Championship in Division C. Monaco overcame The Welsh side 53:49 in the first game oat the Tercentenary Sports Hall in Gibraltar.
Principality of Monaco started with 16-7 and added 13-9 in the second period. Motillon scored for 29:10, while Wales bounced back with 6-0 run as Goulbourne closed the half at 29:16. Alessandro Generale (185-C-96) brought 36:22, while Pieper delivered two for 38:27. Wales did not give up and cut it to 40:35 after three quarters. Wilson later tied the game at 46:46, while he later brought 48:46 lead for his team. Alessandro Generale and Pieper however scored for Monaco to bring them the first victory.
Alessandro Generale top-scored for the winners with 14 points and 10 rebounds, while Motillon also 14 scored. Pieper collected 13 points and 13 rebounds and Marechal added 12. Nico-Pele Wilson ended up with 15 points in the losing effort. Thomas notched 11, whilst Easter posted 6.

Principality of Monaco U16: Alessandro Generale 14+10 rebs, Motillon 14, Pieper 13+13 rebs, Marechal 12
Wales U16: Nico-Pele Wilson15, Thomas 11, Easter 6


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  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U20   

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Marko MUGOSA
  (198-F-93)
  Avg: 18
 1. Mugosa, MNT18.0 
 2. Sanadze, GEO17.2 
 3. Burjanadze, GEO16.4 
 4. Larentzakis, GRE16.3 
 5. Prepelic, SLO16.3 
 6. Eriksson, SWE15.9 
 7. Nikolic, MNT15.2 
 8. Omic, SLO15.1 
 9. Pustovyi, UKR14.9 
 10. Antonakis, GRE14.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Vyacheslav BOBROV
  (202-F-92)
  Avg: 8.9
 1. Bobrov, UKR8.9 
 2. Burjanadze, GEO8.4 
 3. Omic, SLO7.7 
 4. Nikolic, MNT7.7 
 5. Gaddefors, SWE7.1 
 6. Trushkin, RUS7.1 
 7. Gobert, FRA7.0 
 8. Jean-Charles, FRA6.8 
 9. Pavic, MNT6.8 
 10. Norman, SWE6.4 
Assists Per Game
 Klym ARTAMONOV
  UKR
  (183-PG-93)
  Avg: 5.3
 1. Artamonov, UKR5.3 
 2. Prepelic, SLO4.9 
 3. Cizauskas, LTU4.6 
 4. Westermann, FRA4.3 
 5. Pajovic, MNT4.1 
 6. Laane, EST4.0 
 7. Traini, ITA3.9 
 8. Pkhakadze, GEO3.8 
 9. Antonakis, GRE3.6 
 10. Rupnik, SLO3.3 
Steals Per Game
 Dovydas REDIKAS
  (195-G-92)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Redikas, LTU2.1 
 2. Pozas, ESP2.0 
 3. Lagana, ITA1.9 
 4. Larentzakis, GRE1.7 
 5. Dokuyan, TUR1.5 
 6. Timma, LAT1.5 
 7. Eroglu, TUR1.5 
 8. Heckmann, GER1.3 
 9. Edge, TUR1.3 
 10. Barrera, ESP1.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Rudy GOBERT
  (212-C-92)
  Avg: 3.9
 1. Gobert, FRA3.9 
 2. Pustovyi, UKR2.3 
 3. Nurger, EST1.4 
 4. Orlenko, RUS1.3 
 5. Nikolic, MNT1.3 
 6. Silins, LAT1.2 
 7. Tessitori, ITA1.1 
 8. Omic, SLO1.0 
 9. Gaddefors, SWE0.9 
 10. Vaitiekunas, LTU0.9 



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  FINLAND   


Cremona signs Finish NT member Shawn Huff - by Eurobasket News

Guerino Vanoli Cremona continues with signings for the next season. Their latest addition is Finish swingman Shawn Huff (198-G/F-84, college: Valparaiso), who penned a 1-year deal with the club. He arrives to Cremona from Forli, where he had 15.5 ppg and 6.8 rpg for 28 LegaDue games last season. Huff joined Forli in February of 2011 from the Greek squad Kavala. He had 12.9 ppg and 5.9 rpg for 9 games with Forli in 2010/11. Before that Huff averaged 5.4 points and 3.2 rebounds for 17 games with Kavala. He played there also in 2009/10 season registering 4.2 ppg and 1.8 rpg. In 2008/09, Huff played fro Marousi Athens.
Shawn Huff is a product of Valparaiso University, where he graduated in 2008. He had 12.6 ppg and 4.5 rpg for his school as a senior. Last summer with the Finish NT he had 9.5 ppg and 4.4 rpg for 12 games at the EuroBasket in Lithuania.


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


U16 European Championship: Serbia nip France - by Eurobasket News

Serbia U16 - France U16 56:53

Serbia earned the second straight win at the second stage of U16 European Championship. They held off France to improve at 3-1 record in Group F. Nikola Pavlovic (199-PF-96) accounted for 15 points and 7 rebounds to lead the winners. France fell at 2-2 record after the loss.
France enjoyed a 14:11 lead after ten minutes. Serbia outscored their opponents to narrow the gap at 2-point mark at halftime 25:27. Serbia held France to 7 points in the third term to surge ahead. The Balkan team established a 39:34 lead at the final break. France got within two points with 5 seconds remaining in regulation but Ivan Daskalovic (199-SG-96) hit a free throw and then Etienne Ory (175-PG-96) missed a three-pointer as Serbia sealed the win at the end. Ilija Dokovic (185-G-96) nailed 10 points, while Ivan Daskalovic and Vukan Stojanovic (192-SG-96) netted 8 points each in the win. Etienne Ory answered with 12 points for France. Felix Michel (179-PG-96) had 9 points in the losing effort.

Serbia U16: Nikola Pavlovic 15, Ilija Dokovic 10, Ivan Daskalovic 8, Vukan Stojanovic 8
France U16: Etienne Ory 12, Felix Michel 9


Turkey U18 win international tournament - by Eurobasket News

Turkey U18 - France U18 69:59

Turkish U18 National Team continued their preparations for the upcoming European Championship. They lately celebrated the title at the international tournament. The hosts defeated France 69:59 on the final day of the tourney to finish undefeated. Cedi Osman (198-PG-95) came up with 10 points to lead the charge.
The teams stayed close throughout the opening quarter. Turkey led by a single point 24:23 at the first break. The hosts boosted the lead in the second quarter. Turkey accounted for a 40:30 halftime lead. France slowed the home side down in the third quarter. They narrowed the deficit at 4-point mark at the final intermission. But Turkey ignited a 16:10 run in the fourth frame and sealed the victory at the end. Burak Yildizli (200-F-94) and Kartal Ozmizrak (184-PG-95) accounted for 9 points each for the winners. Boris Dallo (193-G-94) responded with 11 points for France. Antony Labanca netted 8 points in defeat.

Turkey U18: Cedi Osman 10, Burak Yildizli 9, Kartal Ozmizrak 9
France U18: Boris Dallo 11, Antony Labanca 8


Orleans gets bigger with Osby Bambale - by Eurobasket News

Bambale Osby (203-C/F-86, college: Maryland) stays in France, but not with Maurienne. The American/DR Congolese big guy signed a deal with Orleans. He had 14.8 ppg, 9.4 rpg and 1.5 bpg for 37 games with Maurienne last season. Bambale was named to Eurobasket.com All-French ProB 3rd Team -12. Before Maurienne, he spent some time with Puerto Rican team Bayamon.
In 2010/11 season Bambale Osby played for TTU/Kalev Tallinn. He led the team to Estonian league and Cup Semifinals. Bambale had 16.4 ppg, 10 rpg and 1.2 bpg for 21 games in KML. The player was even better in Baltic league averaging 19 points and 11.7 rebounds. He was named Eurobasket.com All-Estonian League Player of the Year -11 and Eurobasket.com All-Baltic League Forward of the Year -11. In the past, Bambale played in Austria, Israel and Romania.


Bordeaux inks American F Markel Humphrey - by Eurobasket News

Markel Humphrey (198-F-87, college: Marshall) is a new member of Bordeaux. The American forward penned a deal for the next season. He spent the last one with Magixx KidsRights Nijmegen averaging 15.8 points, 6.6 rebounds and 2.5 assists for 32 games. Huphrey was fourth scorer of Dutch Eredivisie and was named to Eurobasket.com All-Dutch Eredivisie 2nd Team -12. The player was also awarded with Eurobasket.com Dutch Eredivisie All-Imports Team -12.
Markel Humphrey joined Nijmegen in 2009 and it was his first pro deal. He participated at Dutch Eredivisie All-Star Game in 2010 and 2011. In 2011, Nijmegen reached Playoff Semifinals and this year they played in the Cup Finals. Humphrey graduated at Marshall University in 2009. He had 12.5 ppg and 5.3 rpg for his school as a senior. The player was named to SEBL Metro A-League South Division MVP -09 and also All-C-USA 3rd Team -07, 08, 09.


Bourg brings in American guard L.D. Williams - by Eurobasket News

Bourg signed its first import player for the next season. The team landed American guard L.D. Williams (193-G-88, college: Wake Forest), who will play his first year in Europe. Williams played for the NBA D-League team Springfield Armor over the past two years. He shined with 15.9 ppg, 5.9 rpg and 2.1 apg for 52 games last season. Springfield was East Conference Champion. In 2010/11, L.D. Williams had 10.8 ppg, 3.7 rpg and 1.8 apg for 23 games.
L.D. Williams is a product of the Wake Forest University, where he graduated in two years ago. He had 8.7 ppg and 5.6 rpg for 31 games as a senior. The player had pretty close numbers during the all four years with Wake Forrest. In 2009 and 2010 he was named to ACC All-Defensive Team. Wake Forrest was ACC regular season runner-up in 2009.


Malcolm Delaney not returning to Chalon - by Eurobasket News

Malcolm Delaney (191-G-89, college: Virginia Tech) will not return to Chalon for the next season. There were some reports saying that two sides agreed terms for contract extension, but it seems that did not happen after all. Malcolm Delaney had 15 ppg, 3.3 apg and 3.1 rpg for 35 games in ProA. His numbers in EuroChallenge were pretty close: 14.2 ppg, 4.3 apg and 3.4 rpg. Delaney joined Chalon a year ago and it was his first season as a pro. He helped Chalon to take the ProA title and also to win Semaine des As and French Cup trophies. Delaney was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-French ProA Honorable Mention -12 and Eurobasket.com All-EuroChallenge Honorable Mention -12.
Malcolm Delaney is a product of the Virginia Tech University, where he graduated something more than a year ago. He had 18.7 ppg, 4 apg and 3.5 rpg for his school as a senior. In 2010 and 2011, Delaney was named to All-ACC 1st Team.


JSF Nanterre inks deal with Rashaun Freeman - by Eurobasket News

Freeman Rashaun (206-C/F-84, college: Massachusetts) is back to France after three years. The American big guy penned a deal with JSF Nanterre. Freeman was Eurobasket.com All-French ProB Player of the Year in 2008. He played for Nantes at that time averaging 19.8 ppg and 9.9 rpg. Freeman was the top scorer and second rebounder of the competition. Season after that he spent with Gravelines collecting 9.3 ppg and 5.4 rpg for 30 games. He participated at ProA All-Star Game.
Last season Freeman Rashaun spent with Israeli team Habikaa registering 16.9 ppg and 6.9 rpg for 16 games in Premier league. In 2010/11, he played for the Belgian squad Pepinster. There, Freeman was third scorer with 15.9 ppg and top rebounder of the competition with 8 rpg in 32 games. Freeman arrives to Nanterre from the Chinese NBL team Heilongjiang Zhaozhou Feng Shen (19 games: 34.7 ppg, 15.7 rpg).


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


Feni Industri gets bigger with Bojan Trajkovski - by Eurobasket News

Feni Industri announced signing of Bojan Trajkovski (206-C/F-88, agency: Global Sports Plaza) for the next season. The 23-year-old big guy heads to former champs from Torus Skopje. He appeared 23 times in Superleague last season averaging 15.1 points, 6.5 rebounds and 1.7 assists. In Balkan league, the player had 11.1 ppg and 3.6 rpg for 8 games. Trajkovski played for Torus also in 2010/11.
Bojan Trajkovski already played for Feni in 2009/10 and they won the double in FYROM. At that time he had 10.5 ppg and 4.4 rpg for 29 games in the league. From 2003 to 2009, Trajkovski was a member of Rabotnicki. They won the title in 2004, 2005, 2006 and 2009. Rabotnicki also was the Cup winner in 2004 and 2005. In the past, Trajkovski played for Balkan Steel. In 2011, he was named Eurobasket.com All-Macedonian League Forward of the Year.


MZT Skopje keeps Noah Dahlman and Cade Davis - by Eurobasket News

MZT Skopje signed 1-year contract extension with Americans Noah Dahlman (200-F-89, agency: Arete Sports Agency, college: Wofford) and Cade Davis (196-G-88, agency: Arete Sports Agency, college: Oklahoma).
Noah Dahlman appeared 31 times for the club last season averaging 13.3 points and 6.5 rebounds. MZT won the championship title and National Cup, while Dahlman was named Eurobasket.com All-Macedonian League Forward of the Year -12. Of course, he was also named to Eurobasket.com All-Macedonian League 1st Team -12. It was the first season as a pro for Dahlman. The player graduated at Wofford College something more than a year ago. He had 20.1 ppg and 5.6 rpg in his senior season.
Cade Davis also joined MZT last summer as rookie. He had 8.5 ppg and 2.9 rpg for 32 games. Davis graduated at the University of Oklahoma collecting 14.2 ppg and 5 rpg as a senior.


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


U16 European Championship: Andreas Obst carries Germany past Greece - by Eurobasket News

Germany U16 - Greece U16 58:47

Germany posted the first win at the second stage of U16 European Championship. They held off Greek counterparts to climb at 3-1 record in Group F. Greece fell at 1-3 record. Andreas Obst (190-SG-96) was pivotal for Germany with 20 points.
Germany and Greece exchanged baskets throughout the opening quarter. The scoreboard read 14:14 at the first break. Things hardly changed in the second quarter. The teams went neck and neck as they entered the second half tied at 23. Germany pulled ahead in the third quarter. They held Greece to 13 points in the period to secure a 3-point lead at the final intermission. Germany limited the Hellenes to only 11 points in the fourth term and sealed the victory at the end. Jan Wimberg (202-G-96) had 11 points, while Niklas Kiel (202-SF-97) added 8 points and 17 rebounds for the winners. Dimitrios Stamatis (192-G-96) answered with 13 points for Greece. Vasileios Toliopoulos (185-PG-96) had 11 points in the loss.

Germany U16: Andreas Obst 20, Jan Wimberg 11, Niklas Kiel 8+17 boards
Greece U16: Dimitrios Stamatis 13, Vasileios Toliopoulos 11


Giessen 46ers land John Fields - by Moritz Korff

The Giessen 46ers have signed John Fields (205-F-88, college: Tennessee) for the 2012-13 season. The 24-year-old forward out of Fayetteville, North Carolina, was the leading rebounder (12.2rpg) and the second leading shot blocker (1.8bpg) of the Finnish Korisliiga last season. He also added 11.4 points per contest for the Salon Vilpas Vikings and made the Eurobasket.com All-Korisliiga All-Defensive Team.
During his collegiate career Fields played for three different NCAA D1 schools: East Carolina, NC Wilmington and Tennessee. While he scored around 10 points a game in his first three years, his numbers went down as a senior: He averaged 2.6 points, 3 rebounds and 1.2 blocks per outing for TN.


Ryan Brooks returns to Giessen - by Moritz Korff

Ryan Brooks (193-G-88, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Temple) returns to the Bundesliga following one year in Finland and will play for the Giessen 46ers, just like he did in the 2010-11 season. Back then Brooks averaged 9.1 points, 2.9 boards and 1.4 assists per contest. During his stint with Korisliiga team Namika Lahti the 24-year-old out of Narbeth, PA, produced 18.6 points, 5.5 rebounds and 1.6 assists a game. The 46ers handed Brooks a contract for the 2012-13 season.
"Of course I had a long conversation on Ryan with my assistant Usamedin Mehmed, who worked with him two years ago and knows him well. Ryan possess those skills that we need and that we like. He attended a good and renowned university. After his first year as a pro, which has been kind of tough, he showed what he is capable of doing in Finland. He is a very athletic player with a good shooting touch. Ryan is already very effective on the defensive end and will make the next step with us. That is why we have decided to pick him", Giessen coach Matthias Fischer said.


Kirchheim Knights bag Cooper Land - by Moritz Korff

The Kirchheim Knights (2. Bundesliga Pro A) have completed the signing of Cooper Land (203-F-88, agency: Fierce Sports Management, college: Wright St.). The 2-year-old comes from Flower Mound, Texas, and spent the 2011-12 season in Norway. He reached the BLNO Finals with the Asker Aliens and received Eurobasket.com All-BLNO First Team honors. Land saw action in 22 games for the Aliens, averaging 21.2 points, 8.8 rebounds and close to 2 assists per contest. The Wright State grad is able to play in the paint, but will step out to shoot the three as well.


Tony Gaffney Wont Be Returning Back To The Telekom Baskets Bonn - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber


Seeing Jared Jordan ally-opp passes to Tony Gaffney (204-F-84, college: Massachusetts) last season were about as regular as seeing the daily stomping ground fight that ducks and geese possess along the banks of the Rhine river. Seeing the crisp Jordan passes and thundering Gaffney dunks will only be a distant memory since this hook up wont be happening this season. The club announced that the New England native wont be returning this season. Gaffney has had numerous offers from Italy this summer. Gaffney avergaged 12,7ppg, 6,3rpg and 1,7bpg. The club also stated that Simonas Serapinas, Taylor Battle and Daniel Hain also wont be returning to Bonn this season. "We thank all four for what they have done last season for the team. They showed our fans intensive and high class basketball. Tony had a great season and very interesting for other teams that are playing in a total different salary department. We cant keep up with them", stressed Telekom Baskets Head coach Michael Koch.

Source: Telekom Baskets Bonn


Eric Detlev (Fraport Skyliners) I Am More A Teacher Than A General - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Eric Detlev is in his first season as head coach of the Fraport Skyliners (PRO B) team as well as assistant coach for the Fraport Skyliners (Beko BBL). He was 11 years with the Soba Dragons Rhondorf and last three years as head coach helping the team reach the PRO A in 2010. Awards/Achievements in his coaching career have been Eurobasket.com All-German 2.Bundesliga Pro B Coach of the Year 2010 and German 2.Bundesliga Pro B Champion -10. He spoke to Eurobasket about basketball recently.

Welcome to the Fraport Skyliners. How happy are you being a part of the Skyliner family?



I am very happy to be here and be a part of the family.

Did ex Skyliner PRO B player Chris Rojik influence you a bit on making your decision since you coached him for many years at Rohndorf?


I did speak to Chris about coming here, but the contact has broken off a bit because he is back in the States. So he didnt really have so much an influence in me making this decision.

You were 11 years with the Soba Dragons Rhondorf. How did the contact come about with the Fraport Skyliners?


I had spoken to Gunnar Wobke about a year ago about me coming to the Skyliners, but it didnt happen because I had signed a contract with Rhondorf.

On what things are you looking most forward to with your new challenge with the Fraport Skyliners?


There are really two main factors about what I am most looking forward to. First being able to be with young players and help them develop further and second to be able to work with Muli Katzurin and be able to learn new things from him.

What will be your biggest challenge with the Fraport Skyliners?


My biggest challenge will be coordinating everything between the JBBL, NBBL, Eintracht and PRO B players. Also helping PRO B players make the possible jump to the Beko BBL team. Danilo Barthel made the jump last season.

What will be the goal of the PRO B Fraport Skyliners juniors this season?



Being able to stay in the PRO B. The biggest difference to Rhondorf is that there I had the first team and all players, but now I have the second team and might not always have all players for practice.

What is your biggest strength as a head coach?


My biggest strength is talking with all the players. It is most important that no matter what the situation is that you can create a identity in the team and try to teach the players to get integrated into the team.

You were 11 years in Rhondorf and head coach the last three years. How were you able to develop as a coach?


I think it was important that I saw all aspects. I was head coach, assistant coach under guys like Klaus Perwas and Olaf Stolz, athletic coach and youth coach. I learned so much and really all things that a coach needs to know.

What is a strength that doesnt always get noticed in your style?


My ability how to work with the players. I am more a teacher than a general. I try to make young players better by being a teacher.

Who was the best player that you coached?

Chris Rojik was one of the best and really made a name in the second league. Others good players that I coached was Jonas Wolfarth-Bottermann and point guard Nick Larsen.

How much of a joy was it seeing Fabian Thulig and Jonas Wolfarth-Bottermann?


It was a lot of fun helping them make the next step and giving them confidence and trust and just watching them improve.

You coached American Deandre Spraggins. Why isnt a guy like him playing now? Did he retire?


I dont have too much contact with him anymore. I think that he just didnt find his way anymore and maybe didnt get as many offers anymore. He has a tough character. In the first year in Rhondorf it was ok, but he was just a tough character guy.

How many players do you know that have played in the PRO B, but have Beko BBL calibur? A Josh Young had no problems making the transition from PRO B to BEKO BBL.


There surely are some guys that could make it. Especially young Germans always have the potential to make it. Gotha had some strong Americans this season that had that potential to make the next step.

How does the Fraport Skyliners PRO Team roster shaping up for next season?


We want to keep all our German players. We will look for our Americans later in the process. We would like to keep guys like Larry Wright and Demetrius Jemison, but it depends if they want to stay.

Can Konstantin Klein make the next step?

He started his career in the Alba Berlin youth program and helped Gotha reach the PRO A last season. He is a very versatile point guard with a good attitude. He plays for his teammates. He might not score much, but that isnt necessarily what we are looking for first in a point guard. He has a good character and will make the team better.

What was your first impression of Muli Katzurin?


My first impression was that he is a very serious guy that is very professional. For him, the small things are very important. I will learn a lot from him.

What are your hobbies?

I like to be outdoors in the mountains and like to read.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?


I cant remember. I watch many player DVDs.

Thanks Eric for the chat


Michael Wenzl Moves To BG Goettingen - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

BG Goettingen have announced today that Michael Wenzl (209-C-91) will play for the PRO A team this season. Wenzl is a 21 year old 209cm center that played for ratiopharm Ulm the last three seasons. Last season he played 20 games for the Beko BBL getting garbage minutes averaging 1.2ppg and also had a license to play for BG Illertal/Weissenhorn (ProB): 17 games: 9.7ppg, 7.5rpg, FGP: 56.5%, FT: 63.2%. "WE are happy that we were able to win one of the biggest German talents for our program. I also want to give a big thanks to ratiopharm Ulm manager Thomas Stoll that gave us a lot of trust and didnt think about the financial aspect of it, but moreover put the well being of the player as the main focus", stressed BG Goettingen manager Frank Meinertshagen. Wenzl played a total of 48 Beko BBL games. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been
Eurobasket.com German 2.Bundesliga Pro B All-Newcomers Team -11, German Bundesliga Cup Semifinals -12, German Bundesliga Regular Season Runner-Up -12, and German Bundesliga Finalist -12

Source: BG Goettingen


Sanijay Watts Moves To Science City Jena - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

PRO A team Science City Jena have announced the arrival of Sanijay Watts (193-F-87, agency: Limelight Hoops, college: Central Mo.) who will start his third professional season in Germany. Watts is a 24 year old 193 cm that comes from the same home town as ex Fraport Skyliner Jimmy Mckinney from St Louis, Missouri. Watts is an outstanding inside scorer, who is almost unstoppable on the block with his right hand jump hook and his turnaround jump shot, works extremely hard on both sides of the floor and runs the court well, very active player who outworks his opponents, likes to draw contact with his defender to score or to draw a foul, possesses a good midrange jump shot and is a great from the line. Last season, he played for USC Heidelberg (Germany-ProA) playing28 games: 16.1ppg, 5.9rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 61.5%, FT: 67.1%. "I have had an eye on Sanijay for some time. I have watched him the last years and am a fan of this type of player. He will be an important player that will give the team impulses, be a leader and even if he is on the bench cheer for his team. We are very flexible under the basket with him", stressed Science City Jena head coach Georg Eichler. Watts started his basketball career with Cent.Missouri (NCAA2) and in hiss enior year played 31 games: 21.7ppg, 9.5rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 57.3%, FT: 77.7%. He ventured to Germany in 2010 and was a rookie for the Dragons Rhoendorf (Germany-ProA, starting five): 30 games: Score-5 (17.7ppg), Reb-4 (8.7rpg), 2.1apg, FGP: 54.7%, FT: 69.4%. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been MIAA Regular Season, Runner-Up -09, MIAA Tournament Winner -09, All-MIAA 1st Team -09, 10, NABC NCAA D2 All-America South Central District 1st Team -09, NCAA D2 Final Four -09, NCAA D2 All-America Honorable Mention (by Division II Bulletin) -09, Daktronics NCAA Division II All-South Central Region Player of the Year -10, Daktronics NCAA Division II All-South Central Region 1st Team -10, NABC Division II All-South Central Region 1st Team -10, MIAA Regular Season Champion -10, All-MIAA Player of the Year -10, NABC Division II All-America Team -10, NCAA D2 Sweet 16 -10, NABC Division II All-Star Game -10, Daktronics Division II All-America 1st Team -10, and Eurobasket.com All-German 2.Bundesliga Pro A Honorable Mention -11

Source: Science City Jena


ETB SW Essen Add Kevin Kern And Lars Steilmann - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber


Regionaliga team ETB SW Essen have brought in Kevin Kern (180-G-90) and Lars Steilmann to bolster their lineup for the upcoming season. Kern is a 22 year old 180cm guard that played for the ETB Wohnbau Baskets Essen (ProA) the last three year playing a total of 52 PRO A games. The German is happy about coming to Essen where he will start an apprenticeship to become a police man. "I had a great time and learned a lot in the second league, but I have less time now. I am happy to continue to play at a high level", stressed Kevin Kern (180-G-90). "We are happy that Kevin decided to join us despite good offers. He will be an important player for us. You cant earn money here, but there are other advantages to this team", stated Essen head coach Thomas Schnell. The club also has brought in Lars Steilmann who is a 21 year old German that last played for the Bochum Astro Stars (Regionalliga). "I am happy that I can continue to prove that I can play in teh Regionaliga. I want to give 100% and find my role quickly", added Lars Steilmann. "

Source: ETB SW Essen


Kevin Smit Gets 2 Year Contract From The EWE Baskets Oldenburg - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber


2009 Beko BBL champion EWE Baskets Oldenburg have announced that Kevin Smit (183-PG-91) will get a two year contract.. Smit is a 21 year old 183cm guard that started his professional basketball career with Oldenburger TB (Regionalliga in 2009. Last season he played for the EWE Baskets Oldenburg (1.Bundesliga): German League: 11 games: 0.9ppg; EuroChallenge: 5 games: 0.8ppg, 1.0rpg, 1.2apg; 19 games: 12.9ppg, 4.0rpg, 4.6apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 58.5%, 3Pts: 37.7%, FT: 78.3%, played also at Oldenburger TB (Regionalliga): 19 games: 12.9ppg, 4.0rpg, 4.6apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 58.5%, 3Pts: 37.7%, FT: 78.3%. "It isn't an easy job for a young player but at the same time a big chance for him to get better through daily practice and games. It is also important that he knows the area and was able to train with the team last season", stressed EWE Baskets Oldenburg head coach Sebastian Machowski. The current Oldenburg roster looks like this. Dru Joyce, Chris Kramer, Kevin Smit, Julius Jenkins, Dominik Bahiense de Mello, Rickey Paulding, Konrad Wysocki, Ronnie Burrell, Robin Smeulders, Adam Chubb und Jannik Freese. "I am really looking forward to this big challenge", stressed Kevin Smit. "Kevin is the second real Oldenburger next to Jannik Freese from the area. He has developed well in the last years, gives everything and has a high game intellegence", added EWE Baskets CEO HermannSchuller.


Source: EWE Baskets Oldenburg


Germany defeat Slovenia to clinch third position in Istanbul - by Eurobasket News

Germany U18 - Slovenia U18 70:62

German U18 National Team occupied the third overall position at the international tournament in Istanbul, Turkey. They overcame Slovenian counterparts on the final day of the tourney. Paul Zipser (195-G-94) and David Taylor (188-PG-95) knocked down 15 points each for the winners. Paul Zipser was named the MVP of the tournament. Slovenia claimed the second overall position despite the loss.
Germany eked out a 21:19 lead after ten minutes. They stretched the lead in the second quarter. The German youngsters ensured a 39:29 halftime advantage. Slovenia narrowed the deficit in the third term. They got within 6 points at the final intermission. But Germany held Slovenia to 13 points in the fourth quarter and sealed the victory at the end. Malik Mueller (190-G-94) notched 10 points for the winners. Gregor Hrovat (94) answered with 21 points for Slovenia. Tomaz Bolcina (202-F-94) netted 15 points in the loss.

Germany U18: Paul Zipser 15, David Taylor 15, Malik Mueller 10
Slovenia U18: Gregor Hrovat 21, Tomaz Bolcina 15


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  GIBRALTAR   


U16 European Championship: Haefner paced Gibraltar over Andorra - by Eurobasket News

Andorra U16-Gibraltar U16 43:68

Jake Haefner (185-G/F-97) paced Gibraltar over Andorra at the U16 European Championship in Division C. The hosts of the tournament received 37 points from the player to seal 68:43 victory in Group B.
Gibraltar did not waste time in the start of the game and grabbed 23-9 at the end of the first ten minutes. The hosts added 17-12 in the second period for 40:21 at the halftime. Even in the third period Gibraltar dominated the court and produced a 20-14 surge. Both teams nailed 8 points each in the last stanza for the final result.
Jake Haefner also added 11 rebounds to his 37 points. Jeremy Britto (187-G/F-96) notched 8, while Matthew Martinez added 7. Sergi Jordana replied with 9 points in the losing effort, whilst Christian Blanca Salinas and Aleix Marin Munne poured in 8 each. Sergi Jimenez Marquez ended up with 6 points in a loss.

Andorra U16: Sergi Jordana 9, Christian Blanca Salinas 8, Aleix Marin Munne 8, Sergi Jimenez Marquez 6
Gibraltar U16: Jake Haefner 37+11 rebs, Jeremy Britto 8, Matthew Martinez 7


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  GREECE   

Div.B Standing

B Standings
North Group
 1. AEK/Argous 0-0 
 2. Aias Evosmou 0-0 
 3. Doxa Pefkon 0-0 
 4. Egaleo 0-0 
 5. Filippos Veroias 0-0 
 6. Ionikos Ionias 0-0 
 7. Iraklis 0-0 
 8. Marousi 0-0 
 9. MENT 0-0 
 10. Metamorfosi 0-0 
 11. Panerythraikos 0-0 
 12. Periko/Arhelaos 0-0 
 13. Stratoni 0-0 
South Group
 1. Amyntas Dafnis 0-0 
 2. Diagoras 0-0 
 3. Doukas 0-0 
 4. Enosi 0-0 
 5. Esperos Patras 0-0 
 6. Halkida 0-0 
 7. Holargos 0-0 
 8. Irakleio 0-0 
 9. Koroivos 0-0 
 10. Near East 0-0 
 11. Perama Ermis 0-0 


Jonas Maciulis joined Panathinaikos - by Giorgos Diploidis

Jonas Maciulis (200-G/F-85) agreed in terms with Panathinaikos Athens The former Greek and Euroleague champions were looking for a good swingman and they found them by selecting the Lithuanian player.

Last season Maciulis started with Baltai Kaunas were in 7 matches in Lithuanian league had 19.6ppg, 6.9rpg and 2.4apg. Then in April moved in Siena where in 4 matches in Italy had 7.3ppg, 1.5rpg and 1.8apg.

The "Greens" are trying to sign the wanted players as soon as possible in order Argiris Pedoulakis to prepare a team with a lot of new players and having the difficult target to replace Zeljko Obradovic with the best possible way.


Panathinaikos verbally agrees with Cedric Simmons, plan B for Lasme - by Eurobasket News

Panathinaikos verbally agreed a deal with Cedric Simmons (206-F/C-86, college: N.Carolina St.), according to Gazzetta.gr. Reportedly, the Greens will sign Simmons very soon is they don't get Stephane Lasme (203-F-82, college: Massachusetts).
Cedric Simmons played last season for Estudiantes. He appeared 30 times in Liga Endesa averaging 5.7 points and 3.9 rebounds. Simmons played for Kavala in 2010/11. He was the top rebounder of A1 with 10 rpg for 28 games. The player also added 12 ppg and was second shot blocker of the competition with 1.8 bpg. Simmons finished 2009/10 season with Kavala as well. In the past, he played for the NBA teams Chicago Bulls, Sacramento Kings and New Orleans Hornets. A year ago Cedric Simmons received Bulgarian citizenship.


U16 European Championship: Andreas Obst carries Germany past Greece - by Eurobasket News

Germany U16 - Greece U16 58:47

Germany posted the first win at the second stage of U16 European Championship. They held off Greek counterparts to climb at 3-1 record in Group F. Greece fell at 1-3 record. Andreas Obst (190-SG-96) was pivotal for Germany with 20 points.
Germany and Greece exchanged baskets throughout the opening quarter. The scoreboard read 14:14 at the first break. Things hardly changed in the second quarter. The teams went neck and neck as they entered the second half tied at 23. Germany pulled ahead in the third quarter. They held Greece to 13 points in the period to secure a 3-point lead at the final intermission. Germany limited the Hellenes to only 11 points in the fourth term and sealed the victory at the end. Jan Wimberg (202-G-96) had 11 points, while Niklas Kiel (202-SF-97) added 8 points and 17 rebounds for the winners. Dimitrios Stamatis (192-G-96) answered with 13 points for Greece. Vasileios Toliopoulos (185-PG-96) had 11 points in the loss.

Germany U16: Andreas Obst 20, Jan Wimberg 11, Niklas Kiel 8+17 boards
Greece U16: Dimitrios Stamatis 13, Vasileios Toliopoulos 11


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


EiffelTowers nabs combo-guard Brad Tinsley - by Fred Roggen

Dutch champion EiffelTowers Den Bosch announced on Tuesday that it has signed guard Brad Tinsley (190-G-89, agency: Limelight Hoops) on a one-year deal. Combo guard Tinsley arrives from Vanderbilt University, where he averaged 9.0ppg, 2.6rpg, 4.1apg, FGP: 52.4%, 3PT: 41.5%, FT: 85.5% last season.
Tinsley, who played both guard positions as a freshman and sophomore and started afterwards all games at the point guard position for Vanderbilt as a Junior and senior... led the SEC in assists (4,5) in his junior season and was 3rd (4,1) in his senior season... led the SEC in assist to turnover ratio (2,5) as a senior.


Stepco BSW inks combo guard Bryquis Perine - by Fred Roggen

Stepco BS Weert added more quality and depth to its backcourt with the signing of combo guard Bryquis Perine (190-G-88, agency: Court Side, college: Wisc.-Green Bay). He arrives from Hungary, where he first played for Zalakeramia-ZTE KK and averaged 14.5ppg, 2.6rpg, 3.1apg, 2.2spg in 18 games, in Feb.'12 he moved to Kecskemeti Univer KSE where he played 7 games and averaged
10.9ppg, 1.3rpg, 2.6apg, 1.9spg last season.
Bryquis Perine played college basketball at the University of Wisconsin (Green Bay), averaging 11.2ppg, 2.3rpg, 2.8apg, 1.1spg in his senior year.


Matrixx Magixx signs sharpshooter Kyle Spain - by Fred Roggen

Matrixx Magixx Wijchen picked up a premier scorer with signing of swingman Kyle Spain (196-F-87, college: San Diego St.), who signed a one-year deal with Matrixx Magixx. Spain arrives from Erie Bay Hawks (D-League) where he averaged 12.0ppg, 5.2rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 48.3%, 3PT: 41.0%, FT: 81.0% in 51 games last season.
He made his European debut in Belgium with Passe-Partout Leuven Bears during the 2009-10 season. Spain played college basketball at the San Diego State University and averaged
14.1ppg, 5.3rpg, 1.5apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 40.4%, 3Pts: 39.0%, FT: 83.5% in his senior year.



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


Former Division A scoring champion Muhammad El Amin leaves Albacomp for Italy - by Eurobasket News

Ferentino announced signing of its first import player for the next season. The Italian LegaDue newcomer penned a 1-year deal with Muhammad El Amin (196-G/F-87, agency: Two Points, college: Stony Brook). The American swingman shined with 17.1 ppg, 3.7 rpg and 3.4 apg for 22 Hungarian league games last season. He was a member of Albacomp and helped them reach Playoff and Cup Semifinals. In 2010/11, El Amin played for PVSK Pannonpower Pecs and was the top scorer of Hungarian league with 22 ppg for 30 games. He also added 3.9 apg and 3.8 rpg. El Amin was named to Eurobasket.com All-Hungarian League 2nd Team -11, 12.
Muhammad El Amin is a product of the State University of New York, Stony Brook. He had 16.7 ppg and 3.4 rpg for 31 games in their last season together. El Amin was named All-AEC Player of the Year -10 and AP NCAA All-America Honorable Mention -10.


*****************************************************
  IBL   


FLORIDA BASKETBALL ASSOCIATION CHAMPIONCHIP GAME ANNOUNCED - by John Gary

With just one week remaining in the regular season, the Tampa bay rebels and heartland Prowl have clinched their positionsto play for the inaugural FBA championchip game on saturday July 28th at freedom High School. The Rebels and Prowl quickly separted themselves from the rest of the league. At press time the Rebels lead the FBA with a 10-1 record with the Prowl securely in second place at 8-3. Tampa is currentlyon a 9 game winning streak defeating the Prowl last weekend to clinch home court advantage for the single elimination championchip game.


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  ICELAND   


Icelandic National Team 2012 - by Greg

Starting five
#s#
Finnur Magnusson
Magnusson
Hlynur Baeringsson
Baeringsson
Jon Stefansson
Stefansson
Pavel Ermolinskij
Ermolinskij
Logi Gunnarsson
Gunnarsson
#e#5
4 Brynjar Bjornsson 191-G-88 Jamtland Sweden
5 Haukur Palsson 198-F-92 Sant Nicolau Spain
6 Arni Ragnarsson 192-G-87 Fjolnir Iceland
7 Finnur Magnusson 206-C KR Iceland
8 Hlynur Baeringsson 200-F/C-82 Sundsvall Sweden
9 Jon Stefansson 196-G-82 CAI Zaragoza Spain
10 Helgi Magnusson 198-G/F-82 08 Sweden
11 Axel Karason 193-F-83 Vaerlose Denmark
12 Pavel Ermolinskij 202-G/F-87 Norrkoping Sweden
13 Aegir Steinarsson 185-G-91 Fjolnir Iceland
14 Logi Gunnarsson 190-G-81 Angers BC 49 France
15 Sigurdur Thorsteinsson 204-C-88 Grindavik Iceland



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  ITALY   


Reyer Venezia brings in G Ivan Zoroski - by Eurobasket News

Reyer Venezia officially announced signing of Ivan Zoroski (195-G-79). The player arrives from Montegranaro, where he had 15 ppg, 3 apg and 2.9 rpg for 28 games last season. In 2010/11, Zoroski played for Banca Tercas Teramo. There he averaged 16 points, 3.8 assists and 2.9 rebounds. The player was fourth scorer of the competition and was named to Eurobasket.com All-Italian SerieA Honorable Mention -11.
Before his move to Italy, Ivan Zoroski spent three years with Panionios Athens. In their last season together the guard had 8.5 ppg, 2.3 rpg and 2.2 apg in 24 Greek league games. In 2008/09, Zoroski registered 8.7 ppg in Euroleague and a year before that he had 11.8 ppg, plus 2.1 rpg in ULEB Cup. Ivan Zoroski also has experience from Valladolid, Dynamo Moscow Region, Charleroi, Olympiakos and FMP Zeleznik. In 2008, he was named Eurobasket.com Greek A1 League All-Bosmans Team.


Cremona signs Finish NT member Shawn Huff - by Eurobasket News

Guerino Vanoli Cremona continues with signings for the next season. Their latest addition is Finish swingman Shawn Huff (198-G/F-84, college: Valparaiso), who penned a 1-year deal with the club. He arrives to Cremona from Forli, where he had 15.5 ppg and 6.8 rpg for 28 LegaDue games last season. Huff joined Forli in February of 2011 from the Greek squad Kavala. He had 12.9 ppg and 5.9 rpg for 9 games with Forli in 2010/11. Before that Huff averaged 5.4 points and 3.2 rebounds for 17 games with Kavala. He played there also in 2009/10 season registering 4.2 ppg and 1.8 rpg. In 2008/09, Huff played fro Marousi Athens.
Shawn Huff is a product of Valparaiso University, where he graduated in 2008. He had 12.6 ppg and 4.5 rpg for his school as a senior. Last summer with the Finish NT he had 9.5 ppg and 4.4 rpg for 12 games at the EuroBasket in Lithuania.


Bulls sign G Marco Belinelli - by Eurobasket News

The Chicago Bulls signed free agent guard Marco Belinelli (6'5''-G-86) on Tuesday. Per team policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Belinelli, 26, spent the past two seasons in New Orleans and last year saw him average 11.8 points and 2.6 rebounds while appearing in all 66 games, starting 55 of them.

During a five-year career that included stints with Golden State and Toronto, the 18th pick of the 2007 draft by Golden State has averaged 8.9 points and 1.8 rebounds in 287 games.

He is a career 39 percent shooter from three-point range.

Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com


Varese locks Achille Polonara until 2015 - by Eurobasket News

Cimberio Varese continues with signings this summer. Their latest addition is young Italian forward Achille Polonara (203-F-91), who signed a 3-year deal with the club. Polonara is a product of Teramo, where he spent last few years. The player had 8.2 ppg and 4.5 rpg for 32 games in SerieA last season. Polonara participated at SerieA All-Star Game and he is currently a member of the Italian B National Team. Last summer with U20 Italy Achille Polonara won the Silver at U20 EuroBasket in Bilbao. He had 9.4 ppg and 4.8 rpg for 9 games at this event. The player was named to Eurobasket.com All-European Championships U20 Honorable Mention -11. Polonara also played for U18 Italy three years ago. As a member of Teramo, the forward was named Eurobasket.com Italian SerieA All-Newcomers Team -11.


U16 European Championship: Italy remain perfect - by Eurobasket News

Italy U16 - Ukraine U16 83:65

Italy stayed on the winning track at the U16 European Championship. They knocked down Ukraine to improve at 4-0 record in Group E. Federico Mussini (179-PG-96) stepped up with 22 points for the Azzurri as they remained on top of the ladder. Ukraine suffered the third straight loss at the tournament and slipped at 1-3 record.
Italy held Ukraine to 12 points in the opening quarter to take a 7-point lead. They boosted the margin in the second quarter. Italy established a 43:24 halftime buffer. Italy stayed in charge throughout the third quarter. They arrived at the final intermission up by 21 points. Ukraine outscored the Azzurri in the final frame but could not threaten the margin. Daniel Donzelli (199-SG-96) notched 14 points, while Pierfrancesco Oliva (200-SF-96) added 10 points for the winners. Sergii Pryimak (200-PF-96) answered with 22 points for Ukraine. Kyrylo Podkovyrov (180-PG-96) had 13 points in defeat.

Italy U16: Federico Mussini 22, Daniel Donzelli 14, Pierfrancesco Oliva 10
Ukraine U16: Sergii Pryimak 22, Kyrylo Podkovyrov 13


Varese brings in Adrian Banks - by Eurobasket News

Varese brings in Adrian Banks (191-G-86, college: NW Mississippi CC) for the next season. The American Guard comes from Israel where he spent last two years.
In 2010 he joined Maccabi Netanya from the Belgian outfit Belgacom Liege Basket. He appeared 39 times in domestic championship last season averaging 13.2 points, 1.9 rebounds, 1.4 assists and 1.2 steals. Liege was the regular season champion and reached the Playoff Finals. Banks was named Eurobasket.com All-Belgian League Honorable Mention -10. Liege also competed in EuroChallenge, where Banks added 18 ppg, 2.1 rpg and 1.7 spg. He ended this contest as the second best scorer.
Before Liege, Adrian Banks played one season for Pepinster. He was one of the best league players with 16.8 ppg, 2.2 rpg, 1.3 apg and 1.2 spg for 31 games. Pepinster won the Belgian Supercup that year.
In 2010-2011 for Elitzur Netanya (Israel-Premier League, starting five) he became the third top-scorer of the league with 17.3ppg, 2.5rpg, 1.7apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 48.5%, 3PT: 32.4%, FT: 80.6%. In 2011-2012 for Elitzur Netanya (Israel-Premier League, starting five) he was the top-scorer with 21.5ppg, 2.8rpg, 3.2apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 49.5%, 3PT: 35.0%, FT: 82.3%.


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  LATVIA   


U16 European Championship: Croatia beat Latvia for third straight win - by Eurobasket News

Croatia U16 - Latvia U16 76:72

Croatia celebrated the third straight win at the U16 European Championship. The reigning champions defeated Latvia to improve at 2-2 record in Group E. Latvia slipped at 0-4 record after the loss.
Croatia led by three points at the first intermission 23:20. The Balkan team extended the margin in the second quarter. They posted a 35:31 halftime advantage. The teams exchanged baskets throughout the third term. Croatia ensured a 4-point lead at the final intermission. Croatia secured an 8-point cushion with under three minutes remaining. Ervins Meznieks (184-F-96) and Cima put Latvia within three but Croatia hung on to clinch the victory at the end. Lovro Mazalin (198-SF-97) tallied 27 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists for Croatia. Marko Arapovic (207-C/F-96) added 25 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. Ervins Meznieks answered with 20 points for Latvia. Klavs Cavars (195-F/C-96) contributed 18 points in the loss.

Croatia U16: Lovro Mazalin 27+10 boards, Marko Arapovic 25, Ivan Vucic (195-SG-96) 14
Latvia U16: Ervins Meznieks 20, Klavs Cavars 18


Serbia too strong for Latvia in friendly game - by Eurobasket News

Serbia - Latvia 91-68

Serbia and Latvia met last night in a friendly game. Serbia celebrated 91-68 victory in this meeting and it was the first check for the former European and World champions. Both teams prepare for the 2013 EuroBasket Qualifications. Serbia took control on its rival from the beginning and never looked back. They created 18-point lead in Q1 and jumped to plus 20 at the halftime. Latvia slightly improved after the breather, but was not able resist in the last period facing with 23-point loss at the end. Vladimir Stimac (208-C-87, agency: Interperformances) scored 17 points for the winners and Milan Macvan (206-C-89, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) followed him with 11. Vladimir Lucic (202-F-89, agency: Beo Basket) and Milos Teodosic (195-G-87) posted 9 points each. At the other side, Latvia got 14 points from Martins Meiers (206-C-91) and 12 from Edgard Jeromanovs (186-PG-86). Rihards Kuksiks (198-G/F-88, agency: Two Points, college: Arizona St.) stopped to 9 pts. Two teams will play another friendly game tomorrow in Vrsac.

Serbia: Vladimir Stimac 17, Milan Macvan 11, Vladimir Lucic 9, Milos Teodosic 9
Latvia: Martins Meiers 14, Edgard Jeromanovs 12, Rihards Kuksiks 9


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  LITHUANIA   


Deividas Dulkys heads to Lietuvos Rytas - by Eurobasket News

Deividas Dulkys (198-SG-88) heads to Lietuvos Rytas for the next season. The Lithuanian player comes back to Europe.
In 2008-2009 he started for Florida St. (NCAA) and averaged 3.6ppg. In 2009-2010 for Florida St. (NCAA, starting five) he improved to 8.7ppg, 2.3rpg, 1.1apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 41.4%, 3PT: 39.7%, FT: 69.0%. In 2010-2011 his stats read 7.3ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.2apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 36.6%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 52.0%. The last season he showed 7.0ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.3apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 51.6%, 3PT: 37.7%, FT: 80.0%.
For his Awards/Achievements it is a must to mention that Deividas Dulkys became ACC Tournament Finalist -09 and reached NCAA Sweet 16 -11. Moreover last season he was ACC Tournament Winner -12.
Deividas Dulkys is a member of the Lithuanian National Team -12. At the Olympic Games Additional Qualifying Round in Caracas (Venezuela) -12 he averaged 1.5ppg.


U16 European Championship: Poland post second straight win in Group F - by Eurobasket News

Poland U16 - Lithuania U16 77:69

Poland registered the second straight win at the start of the second stage at U16 European Championship. They knocked down Lithuanian counterparts to improve at 2-2 record in the ladder. Marek Zywert (185-SG-96) once again stepped up for the Polish team scoring 23 points as they stayed hopeful of playoff appearance. Lithuania fell at 1-3 record after the loss.
Poland earned a 16:13 lead at the first break. Lithuania adjusted the tempo and unloaded 24 points in the second period to take a 37:36 halftime lead. Poland however regained the advantage late in the third quarter. They entered the fourth frame up by a single point 56:55. Marek Zywert and Filip Pruefer (208-C-96) organized a 10:0 run as Poland posted a 66:57 lead midway through the final frame. Lithuania trimmed the deficit at 2-point mark but Kamil Zywert (188-PG-96) knocked down three free throws late in regulation as Poland sealed the victory at the end. Artur Wlodarczyk (174-PG-96) netted 11 points, while Filip Pruefer and Kamil Zywert added 10 points each for the winners. Antanas Krimelis (191-SF-96) answered with 24 points for Lithuania. Domantas Sabonis (199-PF-96) had 15 points and 27 rebounds in the loss.

Poland U16: Marek Zywert 23, Artur Wlodarczyk 11, Filip Pruefer 10, Kamil Zywert 10
Lithuania U16: Antanas Krimelis 24, Domantas Sabonis 15+27 boards


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  MALTA   


U16 European Championship: San Marino starts the winning account in Division C - by Eurobasket News

Malta U16-San Marino U16 48:68

San Marino starts the winning account in Division C of the U16 European Championship. The team overcame Malta 68:48 in the opener.
Malta opened the game with 18-17, but could not keep the lead at the end of the half. San Marino replied with 19-5 in the second period and grabbed 36:23 after Franciosis jump shot. Moreover San Marino added 17-11 in the third period for 53:34 advantage. Igor Biordi (200-C-96) and Attard started the last quarter accounts for their teams and Caruana reduced to 16 points. Barrena closed the game with 5 consecutive points to seal the victory.
Igor Biordi stepped up with 20 points and 16 rebounds, while Luca Giannotti (166-PG-96) nailed 17. Barrena ended up with 9 points and 10 rebounds, whilst Fabbri notched 7. Caruana delivered 15 points in defeat. Zane Micallef (170-PG-96) notched 8 and Carabott chipped in with 6.

Malta U16: Caruana 15, Zane Micallef 8, Carabott 6
San Marino U16: Igor Biordi 20+16 rebs, Luca Giannotti 17, Barrena 9+10 rebs, Fabbri 7


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  MONACO   


U16 European Championship: Principality of Monaco edge Wales in the opener - by Eurobasket News

Principality of Monaco U16-Wales U16 53:49

Principality of Monaco edge Wales in the opener of the U16 European Championship in Division C. Monaco overcame The Welsh side 53:49 in the first game oat the Tercentenary Sports Hall in Gibraltar.
Principality of Monaco started with 16-7 and added 13-9 in the second period. Pierrick Motillon (177-PG-97) scored for 29:10, while Wales bounced back with 6-0 run as Goulbourne closed the half at 29:16. Alessandro Generale (185-C-96) brought 36:22, while Pieper delivered two for 38:27. Wales did not give up and cut it to 40:35 after three quarters. Wilson later tied the game at 46:46, while he later brought 48:46 lead for his team. Alessandro Generale and Pieper however scored for Monaco to bring them the first victory.
Alessandro Generale top-scored for the winners with 14 points and 10 rebounds, while Pierrick Motillon also 14 scored. Pieper collected 13 points and 13 rebounds and Clement Marechal (180-G-96) added 12. Nico-Pele Wilson ended up with 15 points in the losing effort. Thomas notched 11, whilst Easter posted 6.

Principality of Monaco U16: Alessandro Generale 14+10 rebs, Pierrick Motillon 14, Pieper 13+13 rebs, Clement Marechal 12
Wales U16: Nico-Pele Wilson 15, Thomas 11, Easter 6


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  MONTENEGRO   


Joventut matches Bacelona's offer to Marko Todorovic, keeps the player - by Eurobasket News

FIATC Mutua Joventut officially matched Bacelona's offer to Marko Todorovic (210-C/F-92) and kept the player. Todorovic played 5 games for Joventut last season in Liga Endesa averaging 3.4 points and 1.8 rebounds. The Montenegrin forward spent most of the season with CB Prat Juventut in LEB Silver. There he shined with 15.8 ppg, 8.2 rpg and 1.4 bpg for 26 games. Todorovic was named Eurobasket.com All-Spanish LEB Silver Forward of the Year -12 and also Eurobasket.com All-Spanish LEB Silver 1st Team -12. He joined Joventut in 2008 as 16-year-old player. Todorovic played for U20 Montenegro last summer at U20 EuroBasket in Bilbao. He had 8.6 ppg, 7.9 rpg and 1.4 spg for 9 games at this event. In the past, Todorovic played for U18 Montenegro. A year ago with Prat Joventut he was named Eurobasket.com All-Spanish LEB Silver Bosman Player of the Year -11.


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  NBA   


USA beats Spain 100-78 in basketball exhibition - by Eurobasket News

Gold medal at stake or nothing at all, the US Olympic basketball team was bringing its best Tuesday.

Being back on the Dream Team's turf required it.

Carmelo Anthony (6'8''-F-84, college: Syracuse) came off the bench to score 23 of his 27 points in the first half, and the Americans beat Spain 100-78 in a rematch of the gold-medal game and possible preview of the next one.

LeBron James (6'8''-F-84) added 25 and Kevin Durant (6'9''-G/F-88, college: Texas) had 13, including 10 in the first 3 1/2 minutes of the third quarter to help the US break open the teams' final exhibition game before heading to London.

''We knew that this was a big game,'' US guard Chris Paul said. ''When Coach K talked to us, he told us this was probably the biggest game here in Barcelona since the '92 team was here, so we approached it like that and it was a good win for us.''

The teams played a memorable gold-medal game four years ago, the Americans pulling away for a 118-107 victory after leading by only four points with under 2 1/2 minutes left.

This one turned out much easier once the US controlled the final three quarters.

''It was a good test for us tonight, but the exhibition games are over, the friendlies are over and we look forward to the real challenge of going to London,'' James said.

Pau Gasol (7'0''-F/C-80) scored 19 points and Oklahoma City forward Serge Ibaka, a native of the Republic of Congo who became a Spanish national last year, had 16.

Both teams have been weakened by injuries, with the US missing Dwyane Wade (6'4''-G-82, college: Marquette), Dwight Howard and Chris Bosh, all key contributors in Beijing, along with Derrick Rose. The Spaniards are without point guard Ricky Rubio (6'4''-G-90), and All-Star center Marc Gasol (7'0''-C-85, agency: Interperformances), Juan Carlos Navarro and Rudy Fernandez have battled injuries this year.

They're still the best two teams in the world and favored to meet again in the Aug. 12 gold-medal game. Spain would have a different look, as Marc Gasol was held out of this one while recovering from a left shoulder injury and backup point guard Sergio Rodriguez also sat out.

It may not matter if the Americans play like this in the games that count.

Spain's players said Monday that while they would try to win this tuneup, the bigger priority was preparing for London. The Americans responded that the Spaniards, playing in front of their home fans, would be compelled to go all out in hopes of a victory.

Spain seemed to be playing for real, but was simply overmatched and the Americans eventually ran away from them.

''Well, it was definitely a game that we would have loved to play better as a team,'' Gasol said. ''We made too many mistakes which they capitalized and they played their game. They're a quick unit, very athletic and once they were able to convert a few fast-break opportunities due to our turnovers, it was hard for us.''

The Americans, who would have had Howard, Bosh and Blake Griffin on this roster, believe their quickness and versatility will overcome their size problems, and that's what happened in this one.

Spain's size advantage was evident early, especially once Tyson Chandler (7'1''-C-82), the only center on the US roster, went to the bench with two quick fouls. The Spanish pounded the ball inside to Ibaka, who accounted for three straight Spain baskets on dunks, and the Americans were forced to use a timeout that never happened 20 years ago when the Dream Team ruled Barcelona after Victor Sada's jumper made it 22-13 with 1:40 left in the opening period.

But though Gasol and Ibaka had an obvious advantage inside, neither could deal with Anthony on the perimeter. He made five 3-pointers in the first half while often appearing unguarded behind the arc.

He opened and closed a 20-6 burst with 3-pointers as the Americans went from four down to ahead 42-32 with about 3 minutes left in the half. They later went up by 13 before taking a 48-40 lead into the locker room.

Gasol had the first basket of the second half, but Durant dominated the next few minutes as the Americans extended the lead to 60-46. Russell Westbrook scored seven straight later in the period, his steal and dunk making it 69-48 with 4:19 left.

Spain trimmed it to 12 later in the period, but never had a real shot of getting back into it.

At times it felt like a serious game at Palau Sant Jordi, where nearly every seat was filled well before an energetic pregame ceremony, in which the US national anthem was performed live, instead of the usual recording.

But it also felt like a show, something along the lines of the NBA All-Star game. Navarro was honored before the game for his 200 appearances for Spain, and Dream Teamers Chris Mullin, David Robinson and Clyde Drexler were introduced during a first-quarter timeout. The teams took a photo together after the game as confetti shot out behind them.

The US had a pair of quality tests in Barcelona, beating Argentina 86-80 on Sunday and going 5-0 overall in exhibition play. But the Americans were pushed by all three opponents with legitimate NBA size, the two here and Brazil in an 80-69 victory in Washington.

''We played against two very tough teams in Argentina and Spain, so I think it made us a better team,'' Kobe Bryant said. ''I think it showed us some things that we want to do differently, some things that we're doing right, and I think because of it we feel pretty good about our chances.''

The US and Spain were drawn into opposite Olympic pools, so they wouldn't play until the elimination round. And it's likely to be at the very end of it.

Courtesy of http://msn.foxsports.com


2012 Las Vegas Summer League is over: Day 10 recap - by Eurobasket News

The Las Vegas Summer League came to a close Sunday after 60 games played over 10 games. With a record 24 teams participating, the NBA gave a glimpse of some of its newest, brightest prospects. Who stood out and who struggled in the final day of play?


Studs

Adam Morrison (6'8''-SF-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Gonzaga), Los Angeles Clippers Morrison wants back in the NBA so badly that hes not only playing for the Clippers in Las Vegas but he opened the summer in Orlando on the Brooklyn Nets roster. Prior to Sundays game, Adam averaged 18.5 points per game while shooting 53.7% from the field and 60% from three. In the finale against Boston Celtics, Morrison opened the first quarter with 12 points (a trio of threes without a miss) to give LA a seven-point lead. Morrison finished with 26 points on 9-15 shooting in the Clippers 92-77 win over Boston.

John Henson (6'11''-F-90, college: N.Carolina), Milwaukee Bucks Henson hit his first eight shots in the opener Sunday, scoring 16 points in just 16 minutes. By halftime, Milwaukee was up over the Chicago Bulls by 17 (54-37). Hensons outside shot was dropping which made him a real problem for the Bulls, who also had to try to deal with Henson in the paint. John has good length and mobility. Through summer hes been an offensive force and while he didnt rebound especially well on Sunday, his team was shooting so well there werent a lot of boards to collect (at least on the offensive glass). Before Sunday, John averaged 19 points and 8.7 boards a game. The Bucks wouldnt really need him in the second half so his 16 points and single board shouldnt be discounted, Henson put the Bucks up early.

A Bunch of Bucks It wasnt just Henson, Milwaukee had a great showing from a number of players. Jarrid Famous (6'11''-C/F-88, college: S.Florida) hit all six of his shot attempts for 13 points with eight boards in just 15 1/2 minutes. Stefhon Hannah hit six of nine for 14 points with five assists. Another strong game from Tobias Harris with 18 points on 7-13 shooting. Doron Lamb notched 16 on 6-11 shooting. Milwaukee was on fire across the board from nearly every player on the roster.

Talor Battle (6'0''-PG-88, college: Penn St.), Los Angeles Clippers With Eric Bledsoe sitting out the last couple of games, the Clippers have turned to Penn State guard Battle to run the team. Against the Celtics he was rock solid with 17 points and seven assists while shooting 6-9 from the field. It was his second strong outing in a row, although his 15-point, four-assist effort against the Chicago Bulls on Saturday night ended in defeat (77-74). Considering he got an average of just six minutes a game the first two games of Summer League, he showed hes a capable guard when given the opportunity.

NBA Summer League 2012 All-Stars Looking back, outside of just Day 10, Damian Lillard (6'2''-PG-90, college: Weber St.) of the Portland Trail Blazers and Josh Selby of the Memphis Grizzlies. Lillard was easily the best rookie and Selby may quickly make the Grizzlies forget about losing O.J. Mayo.

Additionally the league announced their All-Star list which includes Malcolm Thomas (Chicago Bulls), Bradley Beal (Washington Wizards), Tobias Harris (Milwaukee Bucks), Jeremy Lamb (Houston Rockets), Dominique Jones (Dallas Mavericks), Cory Joseph (San Antonio Spurs), Jimmy Butler (Chicago Bulls), Kemba Walker (Charlotte Bobcats), Dontas Montiejunas (Houston Rockets), Jae Crowder (Dallas Mavericks), Henson, Lillard and Selby.

HOOPSWORLDs honorable mention . . . Adam Morrison.


Duds

Marquis Teague (6'2''-PG-93, college: Kentucky), Chicago Bulls Teague and the Bulls were blasted by the Milwaukee Bucks 113-68. Marquis played almost 20 minutes and scored just six points on 3-11 shooting. He dished three assists with just a turnover but couldnt really help his team out of the mess Milwaukee was delivering. Teague was taken 29th in the 2012 NBA Draft and has the chance to learn behind Derrick Rose, once Rose is healthy, but he doesnt look ready for a major role initially as a rookie. Chicago is expected to bring in Kirk Hinrich which should relieve some of the pressure on Teague to advance more quickly than hes able.

The Chicago Bulls It really was an awful showing for Chicago, allowing 65.3% from the field while shooting 34.6% and losing the rebounding battle 41-34. No, Jimmy Butler didnt play for Chicago but this was an end-of-the-week-mail-in-game.

Dionte Christmas (6'5''-G-86, agency: Arete Sports Agency, college: Temple), Boston Celtics Christmas had a great week in Vegas. He didnt do much against the Clippers on Sunday (six points in almost 19 minutes) but the reason hes on this list is a positive. His play all week has raised expectations. Averaging 16.3 points per game while shooting 50% from the field and 47.1% from the field, Dionte will certainly get a camp invite somewhere (if not with the Celtics). If he can play near the level he did in Vegas, hell have a real chance to earn a regular season NBA roster spot.

Jared Sullinger (6'9''-PF-92, college: Ohio St.) & Fabricio Melo (7'0''-C-90, college: Syracuse), Boston Celtics Neither Sullinger nor Melo could stem the tide against the Clippers. Sullinger scored a respectable 13 points on 5-10 shooting Melo had six points and three blocks. The duo combined for just five boards (only one for Sullinger). Admittedly it was a difficult game with Los Angeles pouring in 13 three-point shots (on 22 attempts) but Boston couldnt turn the game into an inside-out affair and the Clippers ran away with it.

Note: The Minnesota Timberwolves/Memphis Grizzlies was scheduled against a specific flight back home. Any potential studs and/or duds from the final game may be missing from this list.


CLICK HERE FOR THE GAME RESULTS AND STATS.

Courtesy of www.hoopsworld.com


Bulls sign G Marco Belinelli - by Eurobasket News

The Chicago Bulls signed free agent guard Marco Belinelli (6'5''-G-86) on Tuesday. Per team policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Belinelli, 26, spent the past two seasons in New Orleans and last year saw him average 11.8 points and 2.6 rebounds while appearing in all 66 games, starting 55 of them.

During a five-year career that included stints with Golden State and Toronto, the 18th pick of the 2007 draft by Golden State has averaged 8.9 points and 1.8 rebounds in 287 games.

He is a career 39 percent shooter from three-point range.

Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com


Jazz sign SG Randy Foye - by Eurobasket News

Shooting guard Randy Foye (6'3''-G-83, college: Villanova) has signed a one-year deal with the Utah Jazz, a source close to Foye said Monday night.

Foye, a career 36-percent shooter from three-point range, was the last of the quality shooting guards left on the free-agent market. He stepped into a starting role with the Los Angeles Clippers last season after Chauncey Billups tore his Achilles tendon. Foye averaged 12.8 points as a starter, including 40 percent from three-point range.

The Jazz were 27th in the league last season in three-point shooting percentage (32.3).

Courtesy of ESPN


Knicks sign Brewer to one year deal. - by Bryan Floyd

The Knicks have signed free agent Ronnie Brewer (6'7''-G-85, college: Arkansas) to a one-year contract, a source tells David Aldridge. Brewer was known to be on Minnesota's radar after Courtney Lee went to the Celtics, but Brewer chose the Knicks instead. He'll be a solid fit on the wing, and will more than likely get some solid playing time while Iman Shumpert continues to recover from his offseason knee surgery. Brewer has been a very solid defender over his NBA career and has started to develop a pretty decent shot.
Brewer spent the past two seasons with the Bulls.



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  NCAA1   


OSU player Darrell Williams convicted of sexual battery - by Eurobasket News

A suspended Oklahoma State basketball player accused of sexually assaulting two women at a house party was convicted Monday night of sexual battery and rape by instrumentation, but jurors acquitted him on two other counts.

Darrell Williams (6'8''-F-89) broke down in tears as the verdicts were read, saying "Oh my Jesus God" as he bent over and banged his hands on the defense table. He then turned to the jury and yelled, "I didn't do it." Others in the packed courtroom, including his teammates and coach, left without commenting, and an inconsolable female relative was helped out as Williams was taken away by sheriff's deputies.

The 22-year-old was charged with four counts of rape by instrumentation, but he was acquitted on two of those counts. Jurors, who deliberated for about eight hours, recommended that he be sentenced to a year in prison for each of the rape counts. His formal sentencing is set for Aug. 24.

Payne County prosecutors accused Williams of groping the two women and reaching inside their pants without their consent during a party in December 2010. With little physical evidence to bolster their case, Assistant District Attorney Jill Tontz had to rely on testimony from the two women.

"'No' means just that: It means 'no,"' Tontz said during closing arguments earlier Monday. "These girls felt dehumanized, embarrassed."

Both women testified during the trial and said they identified Williams as their attacker after police showed them a photo of the Cowboys basketball team. One woman said Williams held her against her will and dragged her in a yard. She said the attack happened in the basement of the house and that no one came to her aid.

"It made me feel violated and sick to my stomach," she testified.

After the verdicts, Tontz said the women "waited 16 months to tell a jury what Darrell Williams did to them. This verdict represents justice."

Defense attorneys had tried to cast doubt that Williams was the perpetrator. Witnesses testified that several players at the party wore similar Oklahoma State warm-up suits, and his attorneys claimed that could have led to a misidentification.

Defense attorney Cheryl Ramsey referred to the case as a "he said, she said situation" during her closing argument. She noted that no one heard anyone scream at the party, saw any struggles or reported anything inappropriate. Neither of the women suffered any cuts or scratches, and no clothing was torn after the alleged incident.

After the verdicts were read, Ramsey said she was "very disappointed." She had asked the judge to release Williams pending his sentencing, but the judge denied the request, noting Williams' sudden outburst in court.

The outburst prompted Tontz to quickly move to the other side of prosecutors' table and cry as she clutched a sheriff's deputy. The prosecutor later said she felt intimidated.

Williams has long denied the allegations, and did so in a recorded interview with police that attorneys played at the trial last week.

"I don't know what happened in the basement," Williams said on the audio recording. "I was probably misidentified."

Oklahoma State basketball coach Travis Ford testified on Williams' behalf Wednesday, saying he believed the young man was innocent. The coach declined comment after the verdicts Monday.

Williams was suspended from the team in February 2011. Before that, he led the team in rebounding and averaged 7.1 points per game.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com


Gophers extend Tubby Smith's contract through 2016-17 - by Eurobasket News

Gophers men's basketball coach Tubby Smith and the University of Minnesota have come to terms on a contract extension through the 2016-17 season, athletics director Norwood Teague announced Monday.

The Gophers have missed the NCAA Tournament in back-to-back years, finishing 6-12 in conference play both times. But the team is coming off of a 23-win season that included an appearance in the 2012 NIT Championship game.

Smith, 61, had two years left on his original seven-year contract that paid him $1.8 million annually.

Tubby took over our program at a difficult time and quickly got it headed back in the right direction, both athletically and academically, Teague said in a statement. Since then, Gopher basketball has continued to make strides under his leadership with four postseason appearances, including last year's exciting run to the NIT title game.

Smith got the Gophers into the NCAA Tournament in 2009 and 2010, but his teams have struggled with transfers and injuries ever since.

This spring, however, the team's star forward Trevor Mbakwe received a sixth-year of eligibility from the NCAA. Along with returning difference-makers Rodney Williams, Austin Hollins and Andre Hollins, expectations for Smith's Gophers haven't been higher since his arrival in 2007.

I believe that we can get the job done here, Smith said in a statement. The commitment from the University is there to continue to grow the program and I am looking forward to being a part of that.

Courtesy of www.mndaily.com


No penalties for Penn State basketball, but this scandal is still an obstacle to success - by Eurobasket News

I spent this weekend at the Nike Peach Jam watching college basketball coaches watch college basketball prospects, just sitting inside the Riverview Park Activities Center on the Georgia-South Carolina border alongside the biggest names of the sport. One minute I was next to Roy Williams. The next minute it was Tom Izzo. Or Bob Huggins. Or Ben Howland. Or Eugene Burroughs.

You've probably heard of those first four guys but not the fifth.

The fifth is the associate head coach at Penn State.

I can't remember whether it was Friday or Saturday, but on one of those nights, in a crowd of coaches, I looked to my right and realized I was beside Burroughs. The first thing I saw was the Nittany Lions logo on his shirt and I immediately thought of Jerry Sandusky, child rape and the subsequent conspiracy to cover-up that led us to this historic day in college athletics.

So, no, the NCAA and Big Ten didn't penalize Penn State basketball in any way this morning, and it should be noted that hoops had nothing to do with the criminal activity that took place on campus. But I couldn't help but think while standing there that night that if the first thing I think of when I see a Penn State basketball coach is this Penn State scandal, that's got to be what most basketball recruits think of, too.

And this is the challenge going forward for Burroughs and his boss, Penn State head coach Patrick Chambers.

"It will affect [basketball] recruiting in the short-term," said Baylor coach Scott Drew, who already knows what Chambers soon will learn, that it's difficult to recruit to a ruined brand even if the damage done wasn't your fault. Drew, in 2003, took the challenge of rebuilding the Bears program rocked by a murder and coverup under former coach Dave Bliss.

"The people who only know of Penn State what they're reading nationally probably aren't going to be interested in going to Penn State right now," Drew said. "So Penn State might have to rely more on prospects and families who know more about Penn State than what's in the news -- maybe people who had relatives or family members go there, or just people who have spent some time on the campus before all this -- because those people will probably be more inclined to see more than just this situation."

Things were great when Chambers took the job in June 2011.

Penn State was still Happy Valley and not Cover-up City.

Joe Paterno was still an icon revered by most.

But then came the indictment of Sandusky and the firing of Paterno, and things haven't really slowed since. Penn State has, in a span of nine months, gone from what many considered a beautiful example of a high-major athletics program to the most radioactive brand in sports.

So while Chambers won't have to deal with scholarship losses, postseason bans or any of the things his football counterparts must endure, there's no denying his job is now exponentially more difficult than it was when he took it, and it was already a pretty difficult job.

For that, he can thank his former bosses and colleagues.

With that, I wish him luck.

Courtesy of www.cbssports.com (by Gary Parrish)


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  NEW ZEALAND   


TED Ankara Kolejliler agrees with Kirk Penney - by Eurobasket News

TED Ankara Kolejliler agreed a deal with Kirk Penney (196-G-80, agency: Duran International, college: Wisconsin), according to Turkish media (Basketfaul.com). Reportedly, they will sign it during the day. Penney played for Fuenlabrada last season. He appeared 28 times in Liga Endesa averaging 14.4 points and 2.2 rebounds. Penney finished as fifth scorer of the competition. In EuroChallenge, he had 12.4 ppg and 1.4 rpg in 14 games.
Kirk Penney played for the New Zealand Breakers in 2010/11 registering 20 ppg, 4 rpg and 2.3 apg for 29 games in Australian NBL. The player was second scorer of the competition. Penney was the scoring champion of NBL Australia in 2009 and 2010. In March of 2010 he joined NBA D-League team Sioux Fall Skyforce collecting 22.7 ppg and 4.4 rpg for 7 games. In the past, Penney played for ALBA Berlin and Zalgiris. Two years ago Kirk Penney was second scorer of the World Championship in Turkey with 24.7 ppg for 6 games (New Zealand NT).


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  NIGERIA   

DStv PBL Standings

DStv PBL Stage Two Standings
Group A
 1. D.Warriors 0-0 
 2. Islanders 0-0 
 3. Kada Stars 0-0 
 4. Yelwa Hawks 0-0 
Group B
 1. Kano Pillars 0-0 
 2. Niger Potters 0-0 
 3. Police Baton 0-0 
 4. Royal Hoopers 0-0 
Places 9-16
 1. Comets 5-8 
 2. Union Bank 4-9 
 3. Immigration 4-9 
 4. Bauchi Nets 4-9 
 5. Customs 4-9 
 6. Rockets 3-10 
 7. Defenders 3-10 
 8. Chariots 1-12 
Stage One Standings

Play-Offs: Round 3

A

Jul. 25: Kada Stars - Islanders
Jul. 25: D.Warriors - Yelwa Hawks

B

Jul. 25: Police Baton - Niger Potters
Jul. 25: Kano Pillars - Royal Hoopers



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  POLAND   


Zielona Gora signs Mantas Cesnauskis and Adam Lapeta, keeps Filip Matczak - by Eurobasket News

Stelmet Zielona Gora announced signing of Mantas Cesnauskis (189-G-81, agency: Promotex) and Adam Lapeta (217-C-87, agency: Alti Sport) for the next season. The team also kept young Filip Matczak (186-PG-93).
Mantas Cesnauskis spent last six years with Energa Czarni Slupsk. He had 9.2 ppg, 2.1 rpg and 2.1 apg for them in 39 PLK games last season. The best stats Cesnauskis had in 2009/10 averaging 13 points and 2.8 assists for 30 games with Energa Czarni. In the past, he played for Nevezis Kedainiai, Deltalcon APOEL Nicosia, Sakalai Vilnius and Lietuvos Rytas. Cesnauskis received Polish citizenship two years ago.
Adam Lapeta is coming from the Polish powerhouse Asseco Prokom, where he played more than 8 years. They won six PLK titles and two Cup trophies together. Lapeta had 4.7 ppg and 4.3 rpg for 10 Euroleague games last season. He also added 5.1 ppg and 3.3 rpg for 16 games in VTB, plus 3.5 ppg and 2.7 rpg in 24 PLK games. Lapeta played for the Polish NT last summer in Lithuania averaging 2.8 points and 1.4 rebounds for 5 games.
Filip Matczak is a product of Zielona Gora, where he started a teenager. He had 2.2 ppg for 15 games last season.


CAI Zaragoza loans Levi Knutson to Energa Czarni for 2012/13 - by Eurobasket News

Levi Knutson (193-G-88, agency: FCM, college: Colorado) will continue his career in Poland. The American shooting guard joined Energa Czarni on loan from CAI Zaragoza. The Spanish squad has contract with the player until the end of 2013/14. Knutson split last season between Mallorca and Huesca, also on loan. With Mallorca he had 15.5 ppg, 3.7 rpg and 2.3 apg for 12 games. In December, the played moved to Huesca where he added 12.9 ppg, 2.2 rpg and 1.8 apg for 22 games. Both teams competed in LEB Gold and it was the first season as a pro for Knutson.
Levi Knutson graduated at the University of Colorado something more than a year ago. He had 11.7 ppg and 2.9 rpg for his school in 38 games as a senior. He helped them reach NIT Final Four. Colorado also reached Big 12 Tournament Semis and Knutson picked up All-Big 12 Sixth Man Award -11.


U16 European Championship: Poland post second straight win in Group F - by Eurobasket News

Poland U16 - Lithuania U16 77:69

Poland registered the second straight win at the start of the second stage at U16 European Championship. They knocked down Lithuanian counterparts to improve at 2-2 record in the ladder. Marek Zywert (185-SG-96) once again stepped up for the Polish team scoring 23 points as they stayed hopeful of playoff appearance. Lithuania fell at 1-3 record after the loss.
Poland earned a 16:13 lead at the first break. Lithuania adjusted the tempo and unloaded 24 points in the second period to take a 37:36 halftime lead. Poland however regained the advantage late in the third quarter. They entered the fourth frame up by a single point 56:55. Marek Zywert and Filip Pruefer (208-C-96) organized a 10:0 run as Poland posted a 66:57 lead midway through the final frame. Lithuania trimmed the deficit at 2-point mark but Kamil Zywert (188-PG-96) knocked down three free throws late in regulation as Poland sealed the victory at the end. Artur Wlodarczyk (174-PG-96) netted 11 points, while Filip Pruefer and Kamil Zywert added 10 points each for the winners. Antanas Krimelis (191-SF-96) answered with 24 points for Lithuania. Domantas Sabonis (199-PF-96) had 15 points and 27 rebounds in the loss.

Poland U16: Marek Zywert 23, Artur Wlodarczyk 11, Filip Pruefer 10, Kamil Zywert 10
Lithuania U16: Antanas Krimelis 24, Domantas Sabonis 15+27 boards


Ukraine outscored Poland in the start of the European Basketball Tour - by Eurobasket News

Ukraine-Poland 81:61

Ukraine outscored Poland in the start of the European Basketball Tour. Fratellos side rolled over the Polish outfit 81:61 in Sofia.
Ukraine entered the game better and reached 28:20 at the end of the first period. The second quarter was decisive in the game and allowed the Ukrainian side to take 23-8 for 51:28 at the halftime. Both teams nailed 14 points each in the third quarter and then Poland bounced back with 19-16 in the last stanza to cut it to final 20 points.
Sergii Gladyr (196-G/F-88) top-scored for the winners with 17 points, while Kornilenko netted 13. Dmytro Zabirchenko (191-PG-84, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav) posted 12, while Maksym Pustozvonov (200-F-87, agency: Beo Basket) had 9 and Olexandr Kolchenko (196-F/G-88, agency: Beo Basket) added 8. Michal Ignerski (207-F-80, agency: Stanley International, college: Mississippi St.) replied with 18 points in the losing effort and Marcin Gortat (213-C-84) notched 15. Lukasz Koszarek (187-G-84) poured in 9, whilst Dardan Berisha (192-G-88, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) delivered 8.
In another game Turkey defeat the hosts in Sofia at the start of the International tournaments with 4 teams participating. The Turkish side grabbed 70:65 win over Bulgaria in Day 1.

Poland: Michal Ignerski 18, Marcin Gortat 15, Lukasz Koszarek 9, Dardan Berisha 8
Ukraine: Sergii Gladyr 17, Kornilenko 13, Dmytro Zabirchenko 12, Maksym Pustozvonov 9, Olexandr Kolchenko 8


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  RUSSIA   


U16 European Championship: Russia gain second straight win in Group G - by Eurobasket News

Russia U16 - Czech Republic U16 76:66

Russia fired past Czech Republic in Group G of U16 European Championship. Ilya Karpenkov (200-C-97) finished with 14 points and 12 rebounds to pace the winners. Russia climbed at 2-0 record, while Czech Republic slipped at 0-2 after the loss.
Czech Republic got to a slightly better start. They grabbed a 13:11 lead after ten minutes. But Russia turned things around in the second quarter. They unloaded 24 points to ensure a 35:27 halftime lead. Czech Republic slowed their opponents down in the third term. Russia scored just 12 points and Czech Republic eked out a 2-point lead 49:47 at the final break. But it was not enough. Aleksandr Zuev (193-PG-96) opened the final frame with a three-pointer and Russia spurred in front. They quickly opened a double-digit lead and cruised to the victory at the end. Pavel Afanasev (194-SG-96) and Aleksandr Zuev provided 14 points each for Russia. Matej Svoboda (200-PF-96) answered with 24 points and 11 rebounds for Czech Republic. David Skranc (196-C-96) netted 15 points in the loss.

Russia U16: Ilya Karpenkov 14+12 boards, Pavel Afanasev 14, Aleksandr Zuev 14
Czech Republic U16: Matej Svoboda 24+11 boards, David Skranc 15


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  SAN MARINO   


U16 European Championship: San Marino starts the winning account in Division C - by Eurobasket News

Malta U16-San Marino U16 48:68

San Marino starts the winning account in Division C of the U16 European Championship. The team overcame Malta 68:48 in the opener.
Malta opened the game with 18-17, but could not keep the lead at the end of the half. San Marino replied with 19-5 in the second period and grabbed 36:23 after Franciosis jump shot. Moreover San Marino added 17-11 in the third period for 53:34 advantage. Igor Biordi (200-C-96) and Attard started the last quarter accounts for their teams and Caruana reduced to 16 points. Barrena closed the game with 5 consecutive points to seal the victory.
Igor Biordi stepped up with 20 points and 16 rebounds, while Luca Giannotti (166-PG-96) nailed 17. Barrena ended up with 9 points and 10 rebounds, whilst Fabbri notched 7. Caruana delivered 15 points in defeat. Zane Micallef (170-PG-96) notched 8 and Carabott chipped in with 6.

Malta U16: Caruana 15, Zane Micallef 8, Carabott 6
San Marino U16: Igor Biordi 20+16 rebs, Luca Giannotti 17, Barrena 9+10 rebs, Fabbri 7


*****************************************************
  SENEGAL   


Sitapha Savane leaves Gran Canaria after 8 years - by Eurobasket News

Sitapha Savane (202-F-78, college: Navy) is no longer a member of Gran Canaria. The Senegalese/Spanish forward leaves the club after 8 years. They were not able to agree terms on contract extension. Savane appeared 7 times in EuroCup last season collecting 4.1 ppg and 1.7 rpg. He added 5 ppg and 2.4 rpg for 33 games in Liga Endesa. The best numbers with Granca Savane had in 2005/06 season. At that time he averaged 13.9 ppg and 5.8 rpg for 37 games in ACB. They reached EuroCup Quarterfinals two years ago. In the past, Savane played for Tenerife and Menorca.
Sitapha Savane played for the Senegalese National Team more than 10 years. He had 8.6 ppg and 3.6 rpg for 5 games at 2006 World Championship in Japan.


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


U16 European Championship: Serbia nip France - by Eurobasket News

Serbia U16 - France U16 56:53

Serbia earned the second straight win at the second stage of U16 European Championship. They held off France to improve at 3-1 record in Group F. Nikola Pavlovic (199-PF-96) accounted for 15 points and 7 rebounds to lead the winners. France fell at 2-2 record after the loss.
France enjoyed a 14:11 lead after ten minutes. Serbia outscored their opponents to narrow the gap at 2-point mark at halftime 25:27. Serbia held France to 7 points in the third term to surge ahead. The Balkan team established a 39:34 lead at the final break. France got within two points with 5 seconds remaining in regulation but Ivan Daskalovic (199-SG-96) hit a free throw and then Etienne Ory (175-PG-96) missed a three-pointer as Serbia sealed the win at the end. Ilija Dokovic (185-G-96) nailed 10 points, while Ivan Daskalovic and Vukan Stojanovic (192-SG-96) netted 8 points each in the win. Etienne Ory answered with 12 points for France. Felix Michel (179-PG-96) had 9 points in the losing effort.

Serbia U16: Nikola Pavlovic 15, Ilija Dokovic 10, Ivan Daskalovic 8, Vukan Stojanovic 8
France U16: Etienne Ory 12, Felix Michel 9


Reyer Venezia brings in G Ivan Zoroski - by Eurobasket News

Reyer Venezia officially announced signing of Ivan Zoroski (195-G-79). The player arrives from Montegranaro, where he had 15 ppg, 3 apg and 2.9 rpg for 28 games last season. In 2010/11, Zoroski played for Banca Tercas Teramo. There he averaged 16 points, 3.8 assists and 2.9 rebounds. The player was fourth scorer of the competition and was named to Eurobasket.com All-Italian SerieA Honorable Mention -11.
Before his move to Italy, Ivan Zoroski spent three years with Panionios Athens. In their last season together the guard had 8.5 ppg, 2.3 rpg and 2.2 apg in 24 Greek league games. In 2008/09, Zoroski registered 8.7 ppg in Euroleague and a year before that he had 11.8 ppg, plus 2.1 rpg in ULEB Cup. Ivan Zoroski also has experience from Valladolid, Dynamo Moscow Region, Charleroi, Olympiakos and FMP Zeleznik. In 2008, he was named Eurobasket.com Greek A1 League All-Bosmans Team.


Crvena Zvezda signs F Marko Simonovic - by Eurobasket News

Marko Simonovic (202-F-86, agency: Beo Basket) is back to Serbia after four seasons. The 26-year-old forward penned a deal with Crvena Zvezda Belgrade. Simonovic arrives to Crvena Zvezda from ALBA Berlin, where he had 9.3 ppg and 3.1 rpg for 12 EuroCup games last season. The player registered 6.7 ppg and 2.6 rpg for 37 German league games. From 2008 until the last summer Marko Simonovic played for Buducnost Podgorica. They won three championship tiles in Montenegro and three Cup trophies. He shined with 13.8 ppg and 5.2 rpg for 27 Adriatic league games in their last season together. Simonovic was named Eurobasket.com All-Montenegrin League Forward of the Year -11. In the past, he played for Hemofarm, Oostende Ergonom and Lavovi.


Serbia too strong for Latvia in friendly game - by Eurobasket News

Serbia - Latvia 91-68

Serbia and Latvia met last night in a friendly game. Serbia celebrated 91-68 victory in this meeting and it was the first check for the former European and World champions. Both teams prepare for the 2013 EuroBasket Qualifications. Serbia took control on its rival from the beginning and never looked back. They created 18-point lead in Q1 and jumped to plus 20 at the halftime. Latvia slightly improved after the breather, but was not able resist in the last period facing with 23-point loss at the end. Vladimir Stimac (208-C-87, agency: Interperformances) scored 17 points for the winners and Milan Macvan (206-C-89, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) followed him with 11. Vladimir Lucic (202-F-89, agency: Beo Basket) and Milos Teodosic (195-G-87) posted 9 points each. At the other side, Latvia got 14 points from Martins Meiers (206-C-91) and 12 from Edgard Jeromanovs (186-PG-86). Rihards Kuksiks (198-G/F-88, agency: Two Points, college: Arizona St.) stopped to 9 pts. Two teams will play another friendly game tomorrow in Vrsac.

Serbia: Vladimir Stimac 17, Milan Macvan 11, Vladimir Lucic 9, Milos Teodosic 9
Latvia: Martins Meiers 14, Edgard Jeromanovs 12, Rihards Kuksiks 9


*****************************************************
  SLOVENIA   


U16 European Championship: Slovenia topple England - by Eurobasket News

Slovenia U16 - England U16 83:69

Slovenia posted the first win at the U16 European Championship. They knocked down England to improve at 1-1 record in Group G. Nejc Zupan (203-PG-96) came up with 19 points to lead the charge.
Slovenia led by 6 points at the first intermission 22:16. England cut the deficit in the second quarter. They narrowed the gap at just 2-point mark at the interval 38:40. England denied the deficit in the third term. They knotted things up at 56 with ten minutes remaining. However Slovenia tipped off the fourth frame on a 14:2 run to clear off. They never looked back again cruising to the victory at the end. Matej Kavas (193-G-96) had 17 points and 12 rebounds, while Grega Sajevic (183-SG-96) added 15 points for the winners. Joe Mvuezolo (193-SF-96) answered with 16 points and 9 rebounds for England. Ikponmwosa Oghide (96) and Dwayne Lautier-Ogunleye (191-SG-96) netted 13 points each in the loss.

Slovenia U16: Nejc Zupan 19, Matej Kavas 17+12 boards, Grega Sajevic 15
England U16: Joe Mvuezolo 16, Ikponmwosa Oghide 13, Dwayne Lautier-Ogunleye 13


Germany defeat Slovenia to clinch third position in Istanbul - by Eurobasket News

Germany U18 - Slovenia U18 70:62

German U18 National Team occupied the third overall position at the international tournament in Istanbul, Turkey. They overcame Slovenian counterparts on the final day of the tourney. Paul Zipser (195-G-94) and David Taylor (188-PG-95) knocked down 15 points each for the winners. Paul Zipser was named the MVP of the tournament. Slovenia claimed the second overall position despite the loss.
Germany eked out a 21:19 lead after ten minutes. They stretched the lead in the second quarter. The German youngsters ensured a 39:29 halftime advantage. Slovenia narrowed the deficit in the third term. They got within 6 points at the final intermission. But Germany held Slovenia to 13 points in the fourth quarter and sealed the victory at the end. Malik Mueller (190-G-94) notched 10 points for the winners. Gregor Hrovat (94) answered with 21 points for Slovenia. Tomaz Bolcina (202-F-94) netted 15 points in the loss.

Germany U18: Paul Zipser 15, David Taylor 15, Malik Mueller 10
Slovenia U18: Gregor Hrovat 21, Tomaz Bolcina 15


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


Fuenlabrada tab Moussa Diagne - by Eurobasket News

Fuenlabrada bolstered their roster. They added Moussa Diagne (210-C-94) to the squad. The youngster signed a five-year deal with the team. Moussa Diagne spent the last season EBA. He played for Torrejon. The centre averaged 7.8 points, 9.6 boards and 1.2 blocks per game.


U16 European Championship: Turkey stun Spain - by Eurobasket News

Turkey U16 - Spain U16 71:56

Turkey kept piling up victories at the second round of U16 European Championship. They knocked down Spain tonight to take 3-1 record in Group E. Spain fell at 2-2 record after the defeat.
Turkey left their opponents behind in the opening quarter. They triggered a 25:13 run in the first ten minutes. Spain however quickly stopped the rot. They answered with a 21:13 rally of their own to narrow the gap 4-point mark at halftime 38:34. Turkey stiffened their defence in the third frame. They held Spain to 11 points and entered the final period up by 5 points 50:45. Spain managed just 11 points in the fourth quarter and had to surrender at the end. Ediz Oktay (192-G-96) and Mert Cevik (198-G-96) nailed 14 points each for Turkey. Okben Ulubay (200-F-97) added 11 points in the victory. Marc Garcia (194-F-96) answered with 13 points for Spain. Marc Bauza (205-C-96) and Brais Gago (180-G-96) netted 9 points each in the loss.

Turkey U16: Ediz Oktay 14, Mert Cevik 14, Okben Ulubay 11
Spain U16: Marc Garcia 13, Marc Bauza 9, Brais Gago 9


Joventut matches Bacelona's offer to Marko Todorovic, keeps the player - by Eurobasket News

FIATC Mutua Joventut officially matched Bacelona's offer to Marko Todorovic (210-C/F-92) and kept the player. Todorovic played 5 games for Joventut last season in Liga Endesa averaging 3.4 points and 1.8 rebounds. The Montenegrin forward spent most of the season with CB Prat Juventut in LEB Silver. There he shined with 15.8 ppg, 8.2 rpg and 1.4 bpg for 26 games. Todorovic was named Eurobasket.com All-Spanish LEB Silver Forward of the Year -12 and also Eurobasket.com All-Spanish LEB Silver 1st Team -12. He joined Joventut in 2008 as 16-year-old player. Todorovic played for U20 Montenegro last summer at U20 EuroBasket in Bilbao. He had 8.6 ppg, 7.9 rpg and 1.4 spg for 9 games at this event. In the past, Todorovic played for U18 Montenegro. A year ago with Prat Joventut he was named Eurobasket.com All-Spanish LEB Silver Bosman Player of the Year -11.


Sitapha Savane leaves Gran Canaria after 8 years - by Eurobasket News

Sitapha Savane (202-F-78, college: Navy) is no longer a member of Gran Canaria. The Senegalese/Spanish forward leaves the club after 8 years. They were not able to agree terms on contract extension. Savane appeared 7 times in EuroCup last season collecting 4.1 ppg and 1.7 rpg. He added 5 ppg and 2.4 rpg for 33 games in Liga Endesa. The best numbers with Granca Savane had in 2005/06 season. At that time he averaged 13.9 ppg and 5.8 rpg for 37 games in ACB. They reached EuroCup Quarterfinals two years ago. In the past, Savane played for Tenerife and Menorca.
Sitapha Savane played for the Senegalese National Team more than 10 years. He had 8.6 ppg and 3.6 rpg for 5 games at 2006 World Championship in Japan.


USA beats Spain 100-78 in basketball exhibition - by Eurobasket News

Gold medal at stake or nothing at all, the US Olympic basketball team was bringing its best Tuesday.

Being back on the Dream Team's turf required it.

Carmelo Anthony (6'8''-F-84, college: Syracuse) came off the bench to score 23 of his 27 points in the first half, and the Americans beat Spain 100-78 in a rematch of the gold-medal game and possible preview of the next one.

LeBron James (6'8''-F-84) added 25 and Kevin Durant (6'9''-G/F-88, college: Texas) had 13, including 10 in the first 3 1/2 minutes of the third quarter to help the US break open the teams' final exhibition game before heading to London.

''We knew that this was a big game,'' US guard Chris Paul said. ''When Coach K talked to us, he told us this was probably the biggest game here in Barcelona since the '92 team was here, so we approached it like that and it was a good win for us.''

The teams played a memorable gold-medal game four years ago, the Americans pulling away for a 118-107 victory after leading by only four points with under 2 1/2 minutes left.

This one turned out much easier once the US controlled the final three quarters.

''It was a good test for us tonight, but the exhibition games are over, the friendlies are over and we look forward to the real challenge of going to London,'' James said.

Pau Gasol (7'0''-F/C-80) scored 19 points and Oklahoma City forward Serge Ibaka, a native of the Republic of Congo who became a Spanish national last year, had 16.

Both teams have been weakened by injuries, with the US missing Dwyane Wade (6'4''-G-82, college: Marquette), Dwight Howard and Chris Bosh, all key contributors in Beijing, along with Derrick Rose. The Spaniards are without point guard Ricky Rubio (6'4''-G-90), and All-Star center Marc Gasol (7'0''-C-85, agency: Interperformances), Juan Carlos Navarro and Rudy Fernandez have battled injuries this year.

They're still the best two teams in the world and favored to meet again in the Aug. 12 gold-medal game. Spain would have a different look, as Marc Gasol was held out of this one while recovering from a left shoulder injury and backup point guard Sergio Rodriguez also sat out.

It may not matter if the Americans play like this in the games that count.

Spain's players said Monday that while they would try to win this tuneup, the bigger priority was preparing for London. The Americans responded that the Spaniards, playing in front of their home fans, would be compelled to go all out in hopes of a victory.

Spain seemed to be playing for real, but was simply overmatched and the Americans eventually ran away from them.

''Well, it was definitely a game that we would have loved to play better as a team,'' Gasol said. ''We made too many mistakes which they capitalized and they played their game. They're a quick unit, very athletic and once they were able to convert a few fast-break opportunities due to our turnovers, it was hard for us.''

The Americans, who would have had Howard, Bosh and Blake Griffin on this roster, believe their quickness and versatility will overcome their size problems, and that's what happened in this one.

Spain's size advantage was evident early, especially once Tyson Chandler (7'1''-C-82), the only center on the US roster, went to the bench with two quick fouls. The Spanish pounded the ball inside to Ibaka, who accounted for three straight Spain baskets on dunks, and the Americans were forced to use a timeout that never happened 20 years ago when the Dream Team ruled Barcelona after Victor Sada's jumper made it 22-13 with 1:40 left in the opening period.

But though Gasol and Ibaka had an obvious advantage inside, neither could deal with Anthony on the perimeter. He made five 3-pointers in the first half while often appearing unguarded behind the arc.

He opened and closed a 20-6 burst with 3-pointers as the Americans went from four down to ahead 42-32 with about 3 minutes left in the half. They later went up by 13 before taking a 48-40 lead into the locker room.

Gasol had the first basket of the second half, but Durant dominated the next few minutes as the Americans extended the lead to 60-46. Russell Westbrook scored seven straight later in the period, his steal and dunk making it 69-48 with 4:19 left.

Spain trimmed it to 12 later in the period, but never had a real shot of getting back into it.

At times it felt like a serious game at Palau Sant Jordi, where nearly every seat was filled well before an energetic pregame ceremony, in which the US national anthem was performed live, instead of the usual recording.

But it also felt like a show, something along the lines of the NBA All-Star game. Navarro was honored before the game for his 200 appearances for Spain, and Dream Teamers Chris Mullin, David Robinson and Clyde Drexler were introduced during a first-quarter timeout. The teams took a photo together after the game as confetti shot out behind them.

The US had a pair of quality tests in Barcelona, beating Argentina 86-80 on Sunday and going 5-0 overall in exhibition play. But the Americans were pushed by all three opponents with legitimate NBA size, the two here and Brazil in an 80-69 victory in Washington.

''We played against two very tough teams in Argentina and Spain, so I think it made us a better team,'' Kobe Bryant said. ''I think it showed us some things that we want to do differently, some things that we're doing right, and I think because of it we feel pretty good about our chances.''

The US and Spain were drawn into opposite Olympic pools, so they wouldn't play until the elimination round. And it's likely to be at the very end of it.

Courtesy of http://msn.foxsports.com


CAI Zaragoza loans Levi Knutson to Energa Czarni for 2012/13 - by Eurobasket News

Levi Knutson (193-G-88, agency: FCM, college: Colorado) will continue his career in Poland. The American shooting guard joined Energa Czarni on loan from CAI Zaragoza. The Spanish squad has contract with the player until the end of 2013/14. Knutson split last season between Mallorca and Huesca, also on loan. With Mallorca he had 15.5 ppg, 3.7 rpg and 2.3 apg for 12 games. In December, the played moved to Huesca where he added 12.9 ppg, 2.2 rpg and 1.8 apg for 22 games. Both teams competed in LEB Gold and it was the first season as a pro for Knutson.
Levi Knutson graduated at the University of Colorado something more than a year ago. He had 11.7 ppg and 2.9 rpg for his school in 38 games as a senior. He helped them reach NIT Final Four. Colorado also reached Big 12 Tournament Semis and Knutson picked up All-Big 12 Sixth Man Award -11.


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  SWITZERLAND   


Clint Chapman joins SAM Massagno - by Luca Maffioli

SAM Basket Massagno agreed terms with Clint Chapman (208-F/C-89). The American center, graduated at The University of Texas, averaged 7.4 points (FGP: 51.1%, FT: 77.8%), 5.7 rebounds and 1.6 blocks in 34 games. Chapman is the second signing after Jamelle Barrett, now the swiss club will search two forwards (one guard/small forward and one small forward/power forward). Awards/Achievements: Big 12 Regular Season Champion 2008, Big 12 Tournament Finalist 2008 and 2011, NCAA Elite Eight 2008, Big 12 Tournament Semifinals 2009 and 2012, Big 12 Regular Season Runner-Up 2011.


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  TURKEY   


Karsiyaka lands Jon Diebler - by Eurobasket News

Jon Diebler (198-G-88, college: Ohio St.) will continue his career in Turkey. The American guard penned a deal with Pinar Karsiyaka. He spent last season with Panionios Athens averaging 10.8 points and 3.5 rebounds in 34 Greek league games. He helped the team to reach Playoff Semifinals. It was the first pro deal for Diebler, who graduated at the Ohio State University something more than a year ago. He had 12.6 ppg, 2.6 rpg and 2.4 apg for 37 games as a senior. Jon Diebler helped Ohio State to reach NCAA Sweet 16 in 2010 and 2011. In his last season with the school he was named All-Big Ten 3rd Team -11. Ohio State was Big Ten Tournament winner in 2010 and 2011, while Dielbler was named to All-Tournament team in 2011. As a freshmen, Diebler won NIT title with his school.


Turkey defeat the hosts in Sofia - by Eurobasket News

Bulgaria-Turkey 65:70

Turkey defeat the hosts in Sofia at the start of the International tournaments with 4 teams participating. The Turkish side grabbed 70:65 win over Bulgaria in Day 1.
Turkey started with 19-14 and led 3 points at the halftime. Bulgaria played better in the third frame and produced a 17-15 surge. Turkey led 1-point entering the last stanza and managed to increase the lead to 5 points. The team stayed tough at the end and won the opener.
Semih Erden (211-C-87) top-scored for the winners with 17 points, while Sinan Guler (193-G-83, agency: 1x1 Sports, college: Carroll, MT) and Ilkan Karaman (205-F-90, agency: Beo Basket) added 12 each. Emir Preldzic (205-F-87, agency: Beo Basket) collected 8 points and 7 rebounds, while Goksenin Koksal posted 7.
In another game Ukraine overcame Poland 81:61. In Day 2 Turkey will face Ukraine, while Poland will take on Bulgaria.


Optimum Ted Kolejliler to complete quadruplet with Ben Woodside - by Ugur Turker

Optimum TED Ankara Kolejliler added Ben Woodside (180-PG-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: N.Dakota St.) to its 2012 - 2013 roster. Woodside is forth foreign player of Ankara Team. American point guard completed last season in Georgia, Armia Tbilisi after terminating his contract with Union Olimpija Ljubljana due to financial problems. He played 6.0 ppg and 1.9 ass in Euroleague and 8.6 ppg and 3.2 ass in Adriatic League and also selected Georgian League Point Guard of the Year since his team won championship. Last year, he was expected to join another Ankara team Turk Telekom Ankara but it happened this year. Optimum TED Ankara Kolejliler also signed with experienced Turkish scorer Erdal Bibo (194-G-77).


Fenerbahce Ulker agreed with Siena on McCalebb's buy-out fee - by Ugur Turker

Source close to the situation claimed that Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul and Montepaschi Siena agreed on Bo McCalebb (178-PG-85, college: New Orleans)'s buy-out fee. Yesterday, GM of Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul Kemal Dincer announced that they agreed with Bo McCalebb and David Andersen over personal issues and are waiting for buy-out agreement with Montepaschi Siena. It is most likely that Bo McCalebb is going to play in Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul for next three years under his ex-coach from Montepaschi Siena; Simone Pianigiani . Official announcement is expected to release in 24-48 hours.


Besiktas Istanbul add Tutku Acik - by Ugur Turker

Besiktas Istanbul signed with Tutku Acik (194-G-80) from Galatasaray Medical Park. Istanbul team which has only 3 players under contract started to complete its 2012-13 roster. Yesterday, GM Haluk Yildirim had said that there would be some signings in next couple of days. Besiktas Istanbul announded Tutku Acik movement in official web site " Besiktas Istanbul which will participate THY Euroleague signed with Tutku Acik as first transfer. There is an one year agreement between sides. " Tutku Acik played 3.0 ppg and 2.7 ass in Euroleague under Galatasaray Jersey.


TED Ankara Kolejliler Announce Two Signings - by Doruk Gencer

Optimum TED Ankara Kolejliler, today, announced the signings of two players: Aysu Keskin (90) and Tugce Canbaz (180-SF-81).

Tugce Canbaz, who is expected to take on the mentor role on a young Kolejliler team , played for KASKI last season, averaged 1.85 points 1.5 rebounds and 0.7 assists in 5 minutes last year for the runners-up of Eurocup for women 2012.

Aysu Keskin, expected to serve as the backup point guard, was the one of the leaders for the TKBL's Gure Belediyesi where she averaged 27:28 minutes, 8.7 points, 4.7 rebounds, 3.5 assists.


TED Ankara Kolejliler agrees with Kirk Penney - by Eurobasket News

TED Ankara Kolejliler agreed a deal with Kirk Penney (196-G-80, agency: Duran International, college: Wisconsin), according to Turkish media (Basketfaul.com). Reportedly, they will sign it during the day. Penney played for Fuenlabrada last season. He appeared 28 times in Liga Endesa averaging 14.4 points and 2.2 rebounds. Penney finished as fifth scorer of the competition. In EuroChallenge, he had 12.4 ppg and 1.4 rpg in 14 games.
Kirk Penney played for the New Zealand Breakers in 2010/11 registering 20 ppg, 4 rpg and 2.3 apg for 29 games in Australian NBL. The player was second scorer of the competition. Penney was the scoring champion of NBL Australia in 2009 and 2010. In March of 2010 he joined NBA D-League team Sioux Fall Skyforce collecting 22.7 ppg and 4.4 rpg for 7 games. In the past, Penney played for ALBA Berlin and Zalgiris. Two years ago Kirk Penney was second scorer of the World Championship in Turkey with 24.7 ppg for 6 games (New Zealand NT).


Turkey U18 win international tournament - by Eurobasket News

Turkey U18 - France U18 69:59

Turkish U18 National Team continued their preparations for the upcoming European Championship. They lately celebrated the title at the international tournament. The hosts defeated France 69:59 on the final day of the tourney to finish undefeated. Cedi Osman (198-PG-95) came up with 10 points to lead the charge.
The teams stayed close throughout the opening quarter. Turkey led by a single point 24:23 at the first break. The hosts boosted the lead in the second quarter. Turkey accounted for a 40:30 halftime lead. France slowed the home side down in the third quarter. They narrowed the deficit at 4-point mark at the final intermission. But Turkey ignited a 16:10 run in the fourth frame and sealed the victory at the end. Burak Yildizli (200-F-94) and Kartal Ozmizrak (184-PG-95) accounted for 9 points each for the winners. Boris Dallo (193-G-94) responded with 11 points for France. Antony Labanca netted 8 points in defeat.

Turkey U18: Cedi Osman 10, Burak Yildizli 9, Kartal Ozmizrak 9
France U18: Boris Dallo 11, Antony Labanca 8


U16 European Championship: Turkey stun Spain - by Eurobasket News

Turkey U16 - Spain U16 71:56

Turkey kept piling up victories at the second round of U16 European Championship. They knocked down Spain tonight to take 3-1 record in Group E. Spain fell at 2-2 record after the defeat.
Turkey left their opponents behind in the opening quarter. They triggered a 25:13 run in the first ten minutes. Spain however quickly stopped the rot. They answered with a 21:13 rally of their own to narrow the gap 4-point mark at halftime 38:34. Turkey stiffened their defence in the third frame. They held Spain to 11 points and entered the final period up by 5 points 50:45. Spain managed just 11 points in the fourth quarter and had to surrender at the end. Ediz Oktay (192-G-96) and Mert Cevik (198-G-96) nailed 14 points each for Turkey. Okben Ulubay (200-F-97) added 11 points in the victory. Marc Garcia (194-F-96) answered with 13 points for Spain. Marc Bauza (205-C-96) and Brais Gago (180-G-96) netted 9 points each in the loss.

Turkey U16: Ediz Oktay 14, Mert Cevik 14, Okben Ulubay 11
Spain U16: Marc Garcia 13, Marc Bauza 9, Brais Gago 9


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  U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS   


Duncans deal: Three years, $30 million - by David Edole

by Mike Monroe
The three-year contract that will take Spurs captain Tim Duncan (211-F/C-76, college: Wake Forest) to the end of his career with the Spurs will pay the two-time Most Valuable Player just over $30 million, according to NBA executives privy to details of the deal that have been released by the league.

Duncan, whose contract last season called for him to be paid $21.2 million, will get $9.65 million next season and $10.4 million in 2013-14. The final season of the three-year deal, at Duncan's option, is for an even $10 million.

The 36-year-old Spurs star last season averaged 15.4 points, a team-high 9.0 rebounds and a team-high 1.52 blocks.

Earlier published reports had put Duncan's pay package between $34 million and $39 million.


Frank Elegar Selected to The-BALL's Philly Team - by David Edole

PHILADELPHIA - Former Drexel standout Frank Frank Elegar (206-C-86, agency: Arete Sports Agency, college: Drexel) has been selected to join Team Philly as part of a two-day Philly-DC showcase event sponsored by the Basketball Alumni Legends League (The-BALL). The summertime professional hoops league which caters to college basketball fanatics will hold the games on August 4 and 5.

The new league is designed to feature former college standouts from the local universities,giving the teams instant star power and a built-in fan base. The-BALL, which will officially get underway during the 2013 summer season, will be run from June to August filling a void for basketball fans and giving top players a high-quality professional hoops alternative during their off-season break from the NBA D-League or international competition.

The-BALL is for those players that haven't landed in the NBA but still have a loyal following in the cities where they made a name for themselves while playing at the collegiate level.

Frank Elegar, a Second Team All-CAA pick and All-Defensive team selection during his senior season of 2007-08, led the Dragons in scoring, rebounding and blocked shots as a senior. Frank Elegar was also a Second Team All-CAA pick as a junior. During his final season, Frank Elegar scored 20 points in a game nine times and recorded nine double-doubles, including a 33-point, 17-rebound performance against Delaware. Frank Elegar finished his career in the Drexel top-15 in both points (1,285) and rebounds (676).

The-BALL will hold its Showcase games at the Charles E. Smith Center on the campus of George Washington University on Aug. 4 and at Hagan Arena on the campus of Saint Joseph's University Aug. 5.


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  UBA   


UBA approves Disciples name change: GIE Menfus Matrix - by David Walls


David Walls
July 24, 2012

After months on the UBA's endangered species list, the GIE Morrow Disciples are officially extinct.

On Tuesday, the league's board of governors unanimously approved the team's name change from Morrow Disciples to Menfus Matrix.
It is the UBA's first franchise name change since the Assault moved from Irving, TX to Atlanta in 2009.

UPG presides over the UBA's unanimous vote to rename the Disciples.

"We are gratified by the community's enthusiasm and remarkable level of support for the Disciples," Disciples team owner D.J. Douglas said. "The city of Morrow, Clayton County, the UBA pursuit team, the business community and the local investors have come together and the GIE organization to assure that a successful UBA franchise in Atlanta will be a reality."

The Matrix had already moved the team's front office and operations to new home office in Atlanta, GA last month.

Morrow is home for me and we wanted to give something back to our community, but we did receive the support we felt would be given so we decided to leave.

Over the last week, Matrix changed the total look of their team, dealing entire team accept UBA MVP Jermaine Barnes (6'5''-G/F-82, agency: Gamble Sports Management, college: Point, GA) and fellow All-Star Freddie Williams (6'2''-G-87, agency: Gamble Sports Management, college: Clayton St.).

The Matrix are eyeing Indiana standout Qadr Owens (6'1''-G-88); a 2nd team All-American from St. Francis (IN). The Matrix hold the 10th selection in the 2012 UBA draft and hope hes available to fill the point guard void left by Leagues Rookie of the Year (John Cantrell (6'2''-G, college: Chicago St.)).

Owens has the talent to become a pro guard and we think with us he can grow into his own, stated D.J. Douglas .

By giving the move its final approval, the league ends the Disciples short four-year existence.

The Disciples were added to the URBL as an expansion team December 2, 2009 and began play winning their first Championship before joining the UBA in 2010. The Disciples have won a total of 3 of the 4 league championships and end a great legacy.



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  UKRAINE   


U16 European Championship: Italy remain perfect - by Eurobasket News

Italy U16 - Ukraine U16 83:65

Italy stayed on the winning track at the U16 European Championship. They knocked down Ukraine to improve at 4-0 record in Group E. Federico Mussini (179-PG-96) stepped up with 22 points for the Azzurri as they remained on top of the ladder. Ukraine suffered the third straight loss at the tournament and slipped at 1-3 record.
Italy held Ukraine to 12 points in the opening quarter to take a 7-point lead. They boosted the margin in the second quarter. Italy established a 43:24 halftime buffer. Italy stayed in charge throughout the third quarter. They arrived at the final intermission up by 21 points. Ukraine outscored the Azzurri in the final frame but could not threaten the margin. Daniel Donzelli (199-SG-96) notched 14 points, while Pierfrancesco Oliva (200-SF-96) added 10 points for the winners. Sergii Pryimak (200-PF-96) answered with 22 points for Ukraine. Kyrylo Podkovyrov (180-PG-96) had 13 points in defeat.

Italy U16: Federico Mussini 22, Daniel Donzelli 14, Pierfrancesco Oliva 10
Ukraine U16: Sergii Pryimak 22, Kyrylo Podkovyrov 13


BC Odessa tab Dario Hunt - by Eurobasket News

BC Odessa strengthened their frontcourt. They landed Dario Hunt (203-F-89). The sides have agreed on terms of one-year contract. The forward will start his pro career in Ukraine. Dario Hunt has just graduated from the University of Nevada. He tallied 10.3 points, 9.8 rebounds, 2.4 blocks and 1.5 assists per game in his senior season. Dario Hunt played in NIT Elite Eight. The forward was named into NABC Division I All-District 6 2nd Team in 2011. He also made it into WAC All-Defensive Team in 2010, 2011 and 2012. Dario Hunt was named into All-WAC 2nd Team in both 2011 and 2012.


Early Ukrainian Superleague Preview...Part 1 - by Matt Haufer

The Ukrainian Superleague has made great strides in recent years. From its website to a corporate logo and game highlights plus interviews on Youtube, the leagues presentation is getting better and better. As an additional service, all games are broadcasted live on the internet, mostly in very solid quality. Also, team budgets seem stable and most teams can afford exciting import players.
There are many signs that the competiton on the court will improve even further this upcoming season. Some of the bottom teams from the 2011/2012 edition seem very ambitious to change their situation.
Politekhnika-Halychyna brought back Serbian Head Coach Zeljko Lukajic (agency: Beo Basket ) who engineered a turnaround in the second half of the season. Veteran big man Vladan Vukosavljevic (206-F/C-84, agency: Beo Basket) will also be back. They inked point guard Sasa Vasiljevic (183-PG-79, agency: Beo Basket) who has previous Superleague experience and had a very good year with Donezk in 2010/2011. They then acquired LSU grad Darrel Mitchell (181-PG-84, agency: Beo Basket, college: LSU) who was one of the top backcourt players in the Superleague with Khimik last season and should be a major upgrade over Keddric Mays (183-G-84). On the other hand, they need to stomach the departure of versatile swingman Lance Harris who joined Vanoli Cremona in Italy.
SK Cherkasy Monkeys opted for a coaching change after a disappointing season and went with former Lukoil Academic head man Jovica Arsic . In regard to player personnel, they obtained SF Denis Ikovlev (201-SF-86, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav, college: Nevada) who averaged 10.2ppg, 4.9rpg and 2.0apg with Khimik in 2011/2012. Former Serbian league top guard Marko Ljubicic (195-G-87, agency: Beo Basket) comes over from Ikaros in Greece A1.
MBC Mykolaiv chose the Baltic route: Former Liepajas Lauvas head coach Agris Galvanovskis brought two of his players with him to Ukraine: Scoring combo guard Josh Mayo (182-G-87, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav, college: Ill.-Chicago) should be a 15-ppg scorer in the Superleague and big guard Martins Kravcenko (192-G-85) was a Baltic League honorable mention last season.
Vasilis Fragias is the new captain on the bridge of SK Dnipro Azot Dniprodzerzhynsk. The veteran Greek head coach last guided Kolossos Rodou in Greece A1. His first major signing was Power Forward Alan Wiggins (206-F-85, college: USF) who had a very good season with Halychyna in 2010/2011 and last played in Pro A France.
Kryvbasbasket, the best of the teams with a negative record in 2011/2012, brought in Latvian Head Coach Karlis Muiznieks (agency: Alti Sport ), the reigning Coach of the Year in the Polish PLK who guided Trefl Sopot to the Polish Cup title and the PLK finals. The team renewed the contract of American combo guard Pierce Caldwell (191-G-88, agency: Alti Sport, college: Incarnate Word) who had a solid first year with 11ppg, 3rpg and 3apg with good shooting percentages.
All in all it looks as if the bottom-feeders from last season will not be that easy to beat this upcoming year


Ukraine outscored Poland in the start of the European Basketball Tour - by Eurobasket News

Ukraine-Poland 81:61

Ukraine outscored Poland in the start of the European Basketball Tour. Fratellos side rolled over the Polish outfit 81:61 in Sofia.
Ukraine entered the game better and reached 28:20 at the end of the first period. The second quarter was decisive in the game and allowed the Ukrainian side to take 23-8 for 51:28 at the halftime. Both teams nailed 14 points each in the third quarter and then Poland bounced back with 19-16 in the last stanza to cut it to final 20 points.
Sergii Gladyr (196-G/F-88) top-scored for the winners with 17 points, while Kornilenko netted 13. Dmytro Zabirchenko (191-PG-84, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav) posted 12, while Maksym Pustozvonov (200-F-87, agency: Beo Basket) had 9 and Olexandr Kolchenko (196-F/G-88, agency: Beo Basket) added 8. Michal Ignerski (207-F-80, agency: Stanley International, college: Mississippi St.) replied with 18 points in the losing effort and Marcin Gortat (213-C-84) notched 15. Lukasz Koszarek (187-G-84) poured in 9, whilst Dardan Berisha (192-G-88, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) delivered 8.
In another game Turkey defeat the hosts in Sofia at the start of the International tournaments with 4 teams participating. The Turkish side grabbed 70:65 win over Bulgaria in Day 1.

Poland: Michal Ignerski 18, Marcin Gortat 15, Lukasz Koszarek 9, Dardan Berisha 8
Ukraine: Sergii Gladyr 17, Kornilenko 13, Dmytro Zabirchenko 12, Maksym Pustozvonov 9, Olexandr Kolchenko 8


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  UNITED KINGDOM   


U16 European Championship: Slovenia topple England - by Eurobasket News

Slovenia U16 - England U16 83:69

Slovenia posted the first win at the U16 European Championship. They knocked down England to improve at 1-1 record in Group G. Nejc Zupan (203-PG-96) came up with 19 points to lead the charge.
Slovenia led by 6 points at the first intermission 22:16. England cut the deficit in the second quarter. They narrowed the gap at just 2-point mark at the interval 38:40. England denied the deficit in the third term. They knotted things up at 56 with ten minutes remaining. However Slovenia tipped off the fourth frame on a 14:2 run to clear off. They never looked back again cruising to the victory at the end. Matej Kavas (193-G-96) had 17 points and 12 rebounds, while Grega Sajevic (183-SG-96) added 15 points for the winners. Joe Mvuezolo (193-SF-96) answered with 16 points and 9 rebounds for England. Ikponmwosa Oghide (96) and Dwayne Lautier-Ogunleye (191-SG-96) netted 13 points each in the loss.

Slovenia U16: Nejc Zupan 19, Matej Kavas 17+12 boards, Grega Sajevic 15
England U16: Joe Mvuezolo 16, Ikponmwosa Oghide 13, Dwayne Lautier-Ogunleye 13


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  URUGUAY   

Standings - Metropolitan League

Metropolitan Standings
 1. Marne 11-5 
 2. Atenas 11-5 
 3. Cader 9-6 
 4. Capitol 9-7 
 5. Urunday Univ. 9-8 
 6. Larranaga 8-6 
 7. Goes 8-7 
 8. Guruyu Waston 7-9 
 9. Verdirrojo 5-10 
 10. Romis N. 5-11 
 11. Yale 4-12 

Regular Season: Round 18

Jul. 23: Urunday Univ. - Marne 94-89
Jul. 23: Atenas - Guruyu Waston 75-55
Jul. 24: Goes - Romis N.
Jul. 24: Larranaga - Yale
Jul. 24: Verdirrojo - Cader


Atenas recovered the Metro leadership - by Hector Lopez

Atenas recovered the Metro leadership after beating Guruyu Waston 75-55 while Marne lost 94-89 with Urunday Universitario, for the Metro league 18th round The results and main players for each team:
Atenas 75 -Anthony Johnson (203-F-88, college: Fairfield) 25 points, 11 rebounds 4 blocks
Guruyu Waston 55 - Martavius Adams 222 points 5 rebounds
- - - -
Urunday Universitario 94 -Howard Wilkerson (198-F-84, agency: Two Points, college: Wofford) 22 points, 12 rebounds
Marne 89 - Eric Freeman (205-C-79, agency: Gamble Sports Management, college: Ky Wesleyan) 19 points 6 rebounds



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Women News


Bulgaria defeat Portugal in Samokov - by Eurobasket News

Bulgaria U18 - Portugal U18 70:55

Bulgaria U18 earned victory over Portuguese counterparts in friendly. Iva Kostova (172-F-94) scored 19 points to lead Bulgaria to the victory in Samokov. The hosts led by two points at the first break 16:14. Portugal erased the deficit in the second quarter. They registered a 28:28 draw at halftime. Bulgaria pulled in front once again in the third frame. They secured a 48:41 lead at the final intermission. Bulgaria poured in 22 points in the fourth quarter and sealed a comfortable win at the end. Radostina Dimitrova (175-F-94) notched 16 points, while Kristina Peychinova (174-C-94) and Gabriela Kostova (192-C-94) netted 11 points each for the winners. Josephine Filipe (175-G-95) responded with 11 points for Portugal. Ines Viana (164-PG-94) had 9 points in the losing effort.

Bulgaria U18: Iva Kostova 19, Radostina Dimitrova 16, Kristina Peychinova 11, Gabriela Kostova 11
Portugal U18: Josephine Filipe 11, Ines Viana 9


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  CROATIA   


Novi Zagreb closes roster for 2012/13 season - by Eurobasket News

Novi Zagreb closed its roster for the next season, the team officially announced.

Point guards: Maurita Reid (173-PG-85, college: Miami, FL), Ivana Seric (187-F-88, college: NJIT), Inja Butina (170-PG-95) and Anja Kukolja (179-PG-97).
Guards: Sandra Mandir (177-G-77), Ana Cacic (175-G-86), Antonija Juric (178-G-89) and Ivana Dojkic (176-SG-97).
Forwards: Matea Vrdoljak (186-F-85), Tea Buzov (174-G-90), Zrinka Brkljacic (173-G-93) and Ena Milicevic (185-PF-96).
Power forward: Mirna Mazic (188-F-85, college: Richmond), Gordana Bedalov (193-C-84, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group, college: FIU) and Ivana Blazevic (182-PG-93).
Centers: Sena Pavetic (198-C-86) and Latoya Williams (193-C-87, college: Chipola JC).

The team will most likely add another player to position 4, but it may happen even during the season. In that case, Bedalov will be moved to position 5.

Head Coach of the team is Vladimir Ivankovic. Zeljko Ciglar and Kristijan Jagatic will serve as Assistants. Kristina Cizmar kept the position of Team Manager.

It is definitely the strongest team in Novi Zagreb's history. They enter to 2012/13 season with big ambitions.


Croatian U18 National Team 2012 - by Greg

Croatian U18 National Team 2012
#s#
Ana-Marija Begic
Begic
Patricia Bura
Bura
Inja Butina
Butina
Antonija Chiabov
Chiabov
Karmen Cicic
Cicic
#e#5
Ana-Marija Begic 190-C-94 Medvescak Croatia
Patricia Bura 185-C-96 Tresnjevka Croatia
Inja Butina 170-PG-95 Novi Zagreb Croatia
Antonija Chiabov 188-F/C-95 Jolly Croatia
Karmen Cicic 181-F-94 Mursa Croatia
Iva Cigic 174-PG-94 Jolly Croatia
Ivana Cipar 94
Martina Cubric 171-SF-95 Croatia 2006 Croatia
Anamaria Cutura 182-SF-95 Tresnjevka Croatia
Andrijana Cvitkovic 189-PF-94
Ivana Dojkic 176-SG-97
Dragica Drmic 182-PF-95
Ivana Dujic 170-PG-95 Jolly Croatia
Ruzica Dzankic 179-SF-94 Croatia 2006 Croatia
Marina Kalebic 172-F-94 Medvescak Croatia
Ena Ljubicic 183-SG-95
Anja Majstorovic 184-SF-94 Medvescak Croatia
Lana Packovski 170-G-94 Medvescak Croatia
Helena Pracuk 95
Dana Saric 174-SF-95 Medvescak Croatia
Iva Slonjsak 181-SG-97 Tresnjevka Croatia
Tihana Stojsavljevic 185-PF-97
Ivana Tikvic 189-C-94 Medvescak Croatia
Ana Tomicic 188-C-95

Zeljko Ciglar Head Coach Novi Zagreb Croatia
Ana Zivkovic Assistant



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


Czech Republic U18 National Team 2012 - by Greg

Czech Republic U18 National Team 2012
#s#
Sarah Berankova
Berankova
Zaneta Duskova
Duskova
Veronika Havlikova
Havlikova
Kamila Hoskova
Hoskova
Anna Hruskova
Hruskova
#e#5
Sarah Berankova 176-PG-96
Zaneta Duskova 168-PG-94 Pardubice Czech Republic
Veronika Havlikova 172-F-94 Frisco Sika Czech Republic
Viktorie Havlova 94
Kamila Hoskova 174-SF-95
Anna Hruskova 179-F-95
Sarka Jozova 174-SG-94 Strakonice Czech Republic
Klara Krivankova 183-PF-96
Gabriela Lachnitova 94
Tereza Matulkova 177-SG-94 VS Praha Czech Republic
Dominika Murgasova 94
Tereza Noskova 173-SG-94
Mariana Opocenska 184-PF-95 Slovanka MB Czech Republic
Dominika Pohunkova 176-PG-94 VS Praha Czech Republic
Nada Salacova 192-C-94 VS Praha Czech Republic
Barbora Samkova 176-G/F-94
Karolina Severova 182-PF-94
Zuzana Talackova 178-PF-95
Michaela Urbanova 178-SG-95
Tereza Vondrackova 184-C-94 VS Praha Czech Republic

Jiri Barta Head Coach BA Sparta Czech Republic



Slovanka add American Brett Benzio - by Eurobasket News

Slovanka add American Brett Benzio (190-C-90, college: Tulane) for the upcoming season. The team announced the player that will debut in Europe in the upcoming season.
In 2008-2009 she appeared for Tulane (NCAA, starting five) and averaged 8.6ppg, 9.2rpg, 1.4apg, 1.0spg, 1.5bpg, FGP: 46.8%, FT: 63.4%. In 2009-2010 she showed 7.5ppg, 7.1rpg, 1.1apg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 51.9%, FT: 66.7%. In 2010-2011 her stats read 7.3ppg, 7.4rpg, 2.3bpg, FGP: 51.9%, FT: 64.3%. The last season for the team she averaged 9.4ppg, 9.1rpg, 1.3apg, 2.1bpg, FGP: 53.0%, FT: 51.4%.
Last season Brett Benzio earned second-team All-Conference USA and All-Louisiana honors and claimed a spot on the C-USA All-Defensive Team. She tabbed College Sports Madness C-USA Player of the Week on Feb. 6 after averaging 15.0 points, 6.0 rebounds and 2.0 blocks per game. Moreover she posted double-figure rebound totals on 17 occasions, including a season-best 16 at Louisiana Tech. In 2012 she was named named C-USA Spirit of Service honoree for her performance on the court, in the classroom and in the community.


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


French U18 National Team 2012 - by Greg

French U18 National Team 2012
#s#
Valeriane Ayayi
Ayayi
Marieme Badiane
Badiane
Fleur Devillers
Devillers
Clarince Djaldi Tabdi
Tabdi
Olivia Epoupa
Epoupa
#e#5
Valeriane Ayayi 184-F-94 Landes France
Marieme Badiane 190-F/C-94 CFBB France
Fleur Devillers 181-G-95 CFBB France
Clarince Djaldi Tabdi 183-F-95 CFBB France
Olivia Epoupa 168-PG-94 Landes France
Elise Fagnez 198-C-95 CFBB France
Aby Gaye 193-C-95 CFBB France
Pauline Lithard 168-PG-94 Bourges France
Marie Mane 187-F-95 Bourges France
Awa Sissoko 178-SG-94 Mondeville France
Mamignan Toure 179-SG-94 Arras France
Lidija Turcinovic 179-SG-94 Lattes Montp. France

Jerome Fournier Head Coach CFBB France
Catherine Melain Assistant
Gregory Morata Assistant



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

Standings - Women

DBBL Standings
 1. Bamberg 0-0 
 2. BG 89 Avides 0-0 
 3. Freiburg 0-0 
 4. Halle 0-0 
 5. Heli Girls 0-0 
 6. Herner 0-0 
 7. Marburg 0-0 
 8. Oberhausen 0-0 
 9. Osnabruck 0-0 
 10. Rhein MB 0-0 
 11. Wasserburg 0-0 
 12. Wolfenbuettel 0-0 

Regular Season: Round 1

Sep. 29: BG 89 Avides - Freiburg
Sep. 29: Herner - Wolfenbuettel
Sep. 29: Osnabruck - Rhein MB
Sep. 29: Marburg - Wasserburg
Sep. 29: Bamberg - Oberhausen
Sep. 29: Heli Girls - Halle


Standings - 2.Bundesliga - by Greg

2.Bundesliga Standings
North
 1. Berlin 0-0 
 2. Bielefeld 0-0 
 3. Chemnitz 0-0 
 4. Goettingen 0-0 
 5. Gruenberg 0-0 
 6. Hagen Phoenix 0-0 
 7. Hannover 0-0 
 8. Mainz 0-0 
 9. Neuss 0-0 
 10. Opladen 0-0 
 11. Quakenbrueck 0-0 
 12. Rhein MB II 0-0 
South
 1. Bad Aibling 0-0 
 2. Heidelberg 0-0 
 3. Jahn Muenchen 0-0 
 4. Keltern 0-0 
 5. Leimen 0-0 
 6. Saarlouis 0-0 
 7. Sandhausen 0-0 
 8. Speyer 0-0 
 9. Trier 0-0 
 10. Viernheim 0-0 
 11. Wuerzburg 0-0 

Regular Season: Round 1

North

Sep. 22: Mainz - Berlin
Sep. 22: Bielefeld - Goettingen
Sep. 22: Quakenbrueck - Opladen
Sep. 22: Chemnitz - Rhein MB II
Sep. 22: Neuss - Hannover
Sep. 22: Hagen Phoenix - Gruenberg

South

Sep. 22: Trier - Speyer
Sep. 22: Leimen - Keltern
Sep. 22: Jahn Muenchen - Bad Aibling
Sep. 22: Saarlouis - Sandhausen
Sep. 22: Viernheim - Heidelberg



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

A1 Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Latoya WILLIAMS
  Esperides
  (193-C-87)
  Avg: 23
 1. Williams, Esperides23.0 
 2. Johnson, Panionios21.7 
 3. Planeta, GAC E.20.3 
 4. Delva, Panathinaik.19.9 
 5. Vukicevic, Kronos19.5 
 6. Davis, PAOK16.5 
 7. Papamichail, Panio.15.9 
 8. Chalivera, FEA Neas14.9 
 9. Handy, Athinaikos13.5 
 10. Stamati, FEA Neas13.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Latoya WILLIAMS
  Esperides
  (193-C-87)
  Avg: 13.6
 1. Williams, Esperides13.6 
 2. Melnika, Asteras12.0 
 3. Kosma, Panathin.11.7 
 4. Vukicevic, Kronos10.5 
 5. Delva, Panathinaik.10.3 
 6. Papamichail, Panio.10.0 
 7. Planeta, GAC E.9.8 
 8. Barnes, PAOK9.6 
 9. Skiadopoulou, Aris8.5 
 10. Hatzinikolao., At.8.3 
Assists Per Game
 Marianna AXIOPOULOU
  Panionios
  (180-F-84)
  Avg: 5.4
 1. Axiopoulou, Panion.5.4 
 2. Lymoura, Athin.4.8 
 3. Hatzinikolao., Ath.4.2 
 4. Tzegianaki, Esperi.3.6 
 5. Gotzi, Kronos AD3.6 
 6. Stavridou, Aris3.0 
 7. Davis, PAOK3.0 
 8. Diela, GAC Eunikos2.9 
 9. Hatzakou, Aris2.9 
 10. Kalogirou, Esperi.2.9 
Steals Per Game
 Ioanna DIELA
  GAC Eunikos
  (175-F-90)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. Diela, GAC Eunikos2.7 
 2. Axiopoulou, Panion.2.7 
 3. Nikolaidou, Apollo.2.4 
 4. Williams, Esperides2.4 
 5. Kalogirou, Esperid.2.3 
 6. Davis, PAOK2.2 
 7. Hatzakou, Aris2.1 
 8. Daskalopoulo., Ast.2.0 
 9. Hatzinikolao., Ath.2.0 
 10. Lymoura, Athin.1.9 
Blocks Per Game
 Collen PLANETA
  GAC E.
  (188-F-88)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Planeta, GAC E.1.9 
 2. Melnika, Asteras1.8 
 3. Williams, Esperides1.3 
 4. Perostiyska, Athin.1.1 
 5. Skiadopoulou, Aris1.0 
 6. Nikolaidou, FEA N.0.9 
 7. Vukicevic, Kronos0.9 
 8. Delva, Panathinaik.0.7 
 9. Kotopodi, Aris0.7 
 10. Kiriakopoulo., At.0.7 


Greek U18 National Team 2012 - by Greg

Greek U18 National Team 2012
#s#
Stratoniki Cholopoulou
Cholopoulou
Kyriaki Emmanouilidou
Emmanouilidou
Styliani Fouraki
Fouraki
Vasiliki Fouraki
Fouraki
Sofia Georgiadi
Georgiadi
#e#5
Stratoniki Cholopoulou 165-PG-95
Kyriaki Emmanouilidou 162-PG-95
Styliani Fouraki 186-C-94
Vasiliki Fouraki 183-F-95
Sofia Georgiadi 185-C-95
Nikolina Ioannidou 174-SG-94 GAC Eunikos Greece
Eleftheria Kalomitsini 180-SF-95
Athanasia Kanavarou 172-SG-95
Aimilia Kollia 186-C-95
Anastasia Koniali 180-PF-95
Eleni Kyratzi 170-PG-95
Maria Logdanidou 184-PF-95 Apollon Ptol. Greece
Amanda Lovely 94
Maria Papavasileiou 178-SG-94
Foteini Priona 175-SG-94
Stefania Sideri 178-G-94 GAC Eunikos Greece
Anna Stamolamprou 171-PG-95 PAOK Greece
Myrto Stampoulidou 176-G-94 Enosi Kavalas Greece
Eirini Styliara 175-SF-94 Proteas Greece
Vasiliki Tarla 181-SF-94
Pavlina Tselempi 190-C-94 PAOK Greece

Georgios Velissarakos Head Coach Halkidas Greece
Kyriakos Arapis Assistant



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


Dutch U18 National Team 2012 - by Greg

Dutch U18 National Team 2012
#s#
Britt Zappeij
Zappeij
Elisabeth Heerschop
Heerschop
Emese Hof
Hof
Isabella Slim
Slim
Jacobine Klerx
Klerx
#e#5
Britt Zappeij 184-C-95 CTO Holland
Elisabeth Heerschop 173-G/F-95
Emese Hof 188-C-96 CTO Holland
Isabella Slim 181-F-95 CTO Holland
Jacobine Klerx 175-G-94
Janiek van Veen 172-PG-95 HLB Account. Holland
Janine Guyt 173-SG-95 Grasshoppers Holland
Kourtney Treffers 186-PF-94 Rivas Ecopolis Spain
Lanette Kempers 185-F-95 Hoofddorp Holland
Laura Cornelius 174-PG-96 CTO Holland
Lisa Schoen 184-F-94 CTO Holland
Lisanne de Jonge 181-F-95 Lekdetec.nl Holland
Renee Hoveling 94
Yordi Kathmann 176-F-94 Lekdetec.nl Holland

Remy de Wit Head Coach CTO Holland
Rob Nieboer Assistant
Mart Kieftenbeld Assistant
Quentin Hillsman Assistant Syracuse USA



Binnenland lands 'Eredivisie Guard of the Year' Zera Butter - by Eurobasket News

Challenge Sports Binnenland Rotterdam announced very important signing. The team penned a deal with '2012 Eredivisie Guard of the Year' Zera Butter (179-G-92). The player arrives from CTO Amsterdam, where she had 17.1 ppg, 5.7 rpg, 3.1 apg and 2.9 spg for 22 games. Butter was second scorer of the competition and third in steals. She picked up two more awards: Eurobasket.com All-Dutch Eredivisie 1st Team -12 and Eurobasket.com Dutch Eredivisie All-Defensive Team -12. Before CTO Amsterdam, Zera Butter played for HLB Accountants Den Helder. There she had 12.9 ppg, 4.8 rpg and 3.1 apg for 18 games. From 2008 to 2010 she was a member of Wereldtickets.nl BV Leiderdorp. Over the past few years Zera Butter very successfully played for U20, U18 and U16 Dutch National Teams. In 2010, she led U18 Holland to silver medal at U18 EuroBasket Division B in Timisoara. They also won the promotion for Division A.


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


Italian U18 National Team 2012 - by Greg

Italian U18 National Team 2012
#s#
Giulia Bona
Bona
Francesca Gambarini
Gambarini
Ilaria Milazzo
Milazzo
Francesca Minali
Minali
Marida Orazzo
Orazzo
#e#5
Giulia Bona 186-F-94 Cervia Italy
Francesca Gambarini 170-PG-95 Bracco Geas Italy
Ilaria Milazzo 167-PG-94 Priolo Italy
Francesca Minali 185-C-94
Marida Orazzo 175-F/G-94 Napoli S.Dike Italy
Elisa Penna 185-F-95 College Italia Italy
Antonia Peresson 183-PG-95
Elena Ramo' 180-F-94 Cervia Italy
Erica Reggiani 175-G-94 College Italia Italy
Francesca Santarelli 172-PG-94 Cervia Italy
Eleonora Zanetti 182-F-94 Familia Schio Italy
Eleonora Zizola 185-F/C-94 College Italia Italy

Stella Campobasso Head Coach College Italia Italy
Luca Visconti Assistant College Italia Italy



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


Bulgaria defeat Portugal in Samokov - by Eurobasket News

Bulgaria U18 - Portugal U18 70:55

Bulgaria U18 earned victory over Portuguese counterparts in friendly. Iva Kostova (172-F-94) scored 19 points to lead Bulgaria to the victory in Samokov. The hosts led by two points at the first break 16:14. Portugal erased the deficit in the second quarter. They registered a 28:28 draw at halftime. Bulgaria pulled in front once again in the third frame. They secured a 48:41 lead at the final intermission. Bulgaria poured in 22 points in the fourth quarter and sealed a comfortable win at the end. Radostina Dimitrova (175-F-94) notched 16 points, while Kristina Peychinova (174-C-94) and Gabriela Kostova (192-C-94) netted 11 points each for the winners. Josephine Filipe (175-G-95) responded with 11 points for Portugal. Ines Viana (164-PG-94) had 9 points in the losing effort.

Bulgaria U18: Iva Kostova 19, Radostina Dimitrova 16, Kristina Peychinova 11, Gabriela Kostova 11
Portugal U18: Josephine Filipe 11, Ines Viana 9


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


ICIM Arad signs 'Division A Player of the Year' Chrissy Givens - by Eurobasket News

Chrissy Givens (180-F-85, college: Middle Tenn.St.) officially became a new member of ICIM Arad. She signed a deal for the 2012/13 season. Givens was Player of the Year in Romania leading her team Targoviste to championship title and Cup trophy. The American had 15.4 ppg, 6.4 rpgm 3 apg and 2.7 rpg for 29 games in Division A. Givens won the double with Targoviste also in 2008/09 season. In 2010/11, Chrissy Givens played for the Belarusian squad Minsk 2006. With them she won the Belarusian Cup and reached league Finals. Givens had 15.8 ppg, 6.2 rpg and 2.9 apg for 19 games in BWBL, while in EuroCup she had even better numbers. The player was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Belarusian League Forward of the Year -11. She has experience from WNBA and Turkey.


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


U18 Serbia names final roster for U18 EuroBasket - by Eurobasket News

Final roster of U18 Serbian National Team for U18 EuroBasket in Bucharest is announced.

U18 Serbian NT
Una Nikolic (173-G-94), Jovana Vidakovic (171-G-94), Natasa Kovacevic (187-F-94), Olga Stepanovic (178-F-94), Kristina Topuzovic (179-G-94), Aleksandra Stanacev (167-PG-94), Katarina Vuckovic (191-F/C-94), Zaklina Jankovic (190-F/C-94), Sanja Mandic (177-G-95), Dragana Stankovic (188-F-95), Ivana Boskovic (183-F-94) and Aleksandra Crvendakic (188-F/C-96).
Head Coach: Zoran Kovacic.
Assistants: Zeljko Vasiljevic and Jovan Gorec.

U18 EuroBasket begins on Thursday in Bucharest. Serbia is placed to Preliminary Group D, together with Italy, Belgium and Slovenia. Three teams will book a spot for the next stage. Last ranked team will have to fight for the survival in Division A. In the first game Serbia will meet Belgium. After that, they will play against Italy and on Saturday against Slovenia. There will be two groups, each with six teams at the second stage (Qualifying Round). Four best teams from each group will advance to the Quarterfinals.


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


Nagyova to Spisska Nova Ves - by Barbora Stuchlikova

Good Angels Kosice have rented out Slovak junior guard Gabriela Nagyova (175-G-92) to SKBD Rucon Spisska Nova Ves. Nagyova came to Good Angels from Dannax Sport Kosice where she averaged 9,4 points and 2,7 rebounds per game.
Good Angels brought in five young players of Dannax but as they are building a squad for EuroLeague, it is not expected that all of them will spend considerable time on court. With releasing Nagyova to SKBD Rucon Spisska Nova Ves, the talented guard gains valuable opportunity to play regularly and develop into a better player.
In the following weeks, Nagyova will participate in U20 European championship as a member of Slovak NT.


Mincikova heading to Ruzomberok - by Barbora Stuchlikova

MBK Ruzomberok announced signing 23-year-old point guard Janka Mincikova (172-PG-89, agency: Josep and Nicolas).
Mincikova returns back to Slovakia after three seasons spent in Spain. She played for ADBA Aviles, Mencey Uni Tenerife and Hondarribia-Irun. Mincikova belonged among best three-point-shooters in Spanish Liga Femenina.
She has also some EuroLeague experiences. In season 2008-2009 she participated in the league with Good Angels Kosice, although she didn't get a considerable court time.
The former member of Slovak U16, U18, U19 and U20 joined Slovak Women NT in qualification for France 2013 and helped the team to qualify directly for the championship. She averaged 2 points and 0,4 rebounds per game.

In Ruzomberok, Mincikova replaces veteran point guard and former captain of the squad Slavka Frniakova-Bucakova (167-PG-79) who retired from basketball.

Ruzomberok also announced inviting six junior players to training camp - Veronika Remenarova (185-F-97), Adela Kudlickova (163-PG-94), Lucia Hadacova (187-PF-95), Alzbeta Longauerova, Beata Fricova (177-G/F-94) and Eva Rehakova.


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


Candace Parker ready to celebrate Olympics with daughter - by Eurobasket News

Candace Parker (6'4''-F/C-86, college: Tennessee) can't wait to get to London.

It's not just because she'll be playing in her second Olympics or that she'll get to see the city for the first time. She's just really excited to be reunited with her 3-year-old daughter Lailaa.

"This Olympics is really for her. It will be a great experience for her to look back at this when she's old enough," Parker said. "This time four years ago she wasn't even a thought and now she'll be at the Olympics with me. It means a lot for her to be here with me."

Parker hasn't seen her daughter since the U.S. women's basketball team left Washington, D.C., on July 16. It's the longest the two have been apart since Lailaa was born on May 13, 2009. The two have traveled around the world as Lailaa is always by her side. When Parker plays in Russia in the winter, Lailaa is there. When she goes on the road during the WNBA season, her daughter is around.

"It's really hard being apart from her," Parker said. "It was emotional when I said goodbye to her in Washington. She's getting older and it's tough but mommy's got to do her job. She'll be able to be there for the Olympics."

The two have talked every other day using an online calling service while the U.S. trained in Manchester, England, and Istanbul.

"It's cute she told me she missed me and was crying for me," Parker said. "It is nice getting a little extra sleep and I know she's in really good hands with Shel and my grand parents."

Parker will have to wait until Sunday to see her family as her daughter and husband Shelden Williams won't arrive until then.

U.S. women's basketball team director Carol Callan joked with Parker that she'd tug on her sleeve from time to time and cry if it helped. Callan is the only other member of the U.S. women's basketball delegation who is a mother, so she can understand what Parker is going through.

The 26-year-old Parker admits that having a daughter has helped her grow-up quickly.

"You really start to appreciate things more," Parker said. "I look back to the 2008 Olympics and I was so young, I was 22 years old. I didn't really stop to take it all in. I know in London I'm going to try and really just enjoy the games. I've never been to London before and I want to see Big Ben and the bridges."

Parker seems to be enjoying herself a lot more on the court lately and that's because she's completely healthy for the first time since giving birth. She came back to the Los Angeles Sparks only two months after Lailaa was born.

In 2010, she injured her left shoulder and that caused her to miss the world championships which the U.S. won. Last season, she only played six games before injuring her right knee and missing the remainder of the season.

"I hated being out, but it helped me love the game more," Parker said. "I can remember my shoulder finally healed and I played overseas and then came back and my knee was hurt."

Now that she is 100 percent healthy, she's playing the best basketball of her young career. Parker is averaging 19 points, 10.2 rebounds and 2.6 blocks this season.

"She does things that no one else can do," U.S. Olympic coach Geno Auriemma said. "She has the skills of a guard in a 6-foot-4 body. She's so dynamic and versatile."

Parker wanted to show that she's completely healed and that her body was stronger than ever. So she decided to strip down for ESPN The Magazine's fourth annual "Body Issue." She was on one of the six covers.

"I thought it was very tastefully done, that's why I agreed to do it," she said. "I think they do a fantastic job displaying your body not in an offensive way, that's the thing I wanted to show. I worked really hard on my body to get back and get stronger. I thought what a great way to show it."

If Parker does help the U.S. win a fifth straight gold medal, she will quickly put it around her daughter's neck. She just hopes that Lailaa appreciates it more than the last time she gave her a medal.

"We were doing a mother-daughter photo shoot and I brought the medal out and she threw it across the yard," Parker said laughing. "I know she'll eventually learn how precious they are."

Courtesy of www.pasadenastarnews.com


Mercury forward Dupree has knee surgery - by Eurobasket News

Phoenix Mercury forward Candice Dupree (6'2''-F/C-84, agency: LBM Management, college: Temple) underwent successful arthroscopic surgery on her left knee on Tuesday and could miss the remainder of the season.

The procedure was performed by Dr. Evan Lederman in Phoenix. Recovery time is estimated at six to eight weeks. The Mercury will resume their season after the Summer Olympics on Aug. 16. The season concludes on Sept. 23.

Dupree sustained a knee injury on June 17 in the first quarter of the game against the Tulsa Shock. The team decided on surgery during the WNBAs month-long hiatus after the knee failed to heal completely.

She ranks second on the team in scoring (14.8 points per game) but missed nine of the Mercury's final 10 games before the break due to the injury, playing only nine minutes in the July 7 game against Atlanta. The seventh-year forward has missed only one game in her first six seasons and had made 151 consecutive starts before the injury forced her out of action on June 20.

Injuries have plagued the Mercury (4-15) since before the start of the season, with all three of their top players from last year missing considerable action. Penny Taylor suffered a season-ending knee injury before reporting to training camp, and Diana Taurasi battled a strained hip flexor that kept her out of 17 of the seasons first 19 games.

Courtesy of www.foxsportsarizona.com