Eurobasket Daily News Report: 7/29/2012 1:04:01 AM

EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 7/29/2012 1:04:01 AM

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Men News

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ADRIATIC LEAGUE

ANDORRA

U16 European Championship: Wales finished the tournament on the last spot - by Eurobasket News

Wales U16-Andorra U16 65:84

Wales finished U16 European Championship on the last spot in Division C. The team lost to Andorra 65:84 as the latter will play for the 5-6 places against Malta.
Andorra started with 19-15 and dominated the first half. They added 21-18 in the second frame to take 40:33 lead at the halftime. Moreover Andorra won the third and the last quarters. They produced a 21-17 burst in the third frame and finished the game with 23-15 in the last quarter. Christian Blanca (185-F-96) Salinas was the last player to bring the points for the winning side.
Roger Valero (190-F-97) top-scored for the winners with 20 points and Sergi Jordana (178-G-96) netted 17. Lameiras De Carvalho delivered 11, while Christian Blanca posted 10. Joshua Thomas (182-PG-96) ended up with 20 points in the losing effort and Nico-Pele Wilson (190-PF-96) added 12. Arwell Goulbourne (192-C-96) collected 10 points and 12 boards in defeat, whilst Jones notched 7.

Wales U16: Joshua Thomas 20, Nico-Pele Wilson 12, Arwell Goulbourne 10+12 rebs, Jones 7
Andorra U16: Roger Valero 20, Sergi Jordana 17, Lameiras De Carvalho 11, Christian Blanca 10

U16 European Championship: Andorra topple Wales - by Eurobasket News

Andorra U16 - Wales U16 84:65

Andorra earned the victory in the classification round of U16 European Championship in Division C. They knocked down Wales in Gibraltar tonight. Roger Valero (190-F-97) scored 20 points and grabbed 9 rebounds to lead the winners.
Andorra pulled ahead in the opening quarter. They posted a 19:15 lead after ten minutes of action. Andorra maintained the lead throughout the second frame. They established a 40:33 halftime advantage. Andorra did not slow down in the second half. They piled up an 11-point buffer heading into the fourth frame. Andorra poured in 23 points in the fourth frame and sealed the win at the end. Sergi Jordana (178-G-96) finished with 17 points and 9 rebounds, while Eric Lameiras had 11 points and 9 rebounds in the win. Joshua Thomas (182-PG-96) replied with 20 points for Wales. Nico-Pele Wilson (190-PF-96) chipped in 12 points in the loss.

Andorra U16: Roger Valero 20, Sergi Jordana 17, Eric Lameiras 11
Wales U16: Joshua Thomas 20, Nico-Pele Wilson 12

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AUSTRIA

Germany outgun Austria in Oberwart - by Eurobasket News

Austria - Germany 81:98

Germany celebrated the second straight win at the start of the international tournament in Oberwart. They knocked down hosting Austria for 2-0 record. Tim Ohlbrecht (211-C/F-88) scored 12 points to pace well-balanced effort from Pesic team.
Austria eked out a 24:21 lead after ten minutes. But Germany poured in 32 points in the second quarter to surge ahead. They established a 53:42 halftime lead. Germany dropped 28 points in the third term to take a 22-point lead at the final intermission. Austria narrowed the deficit in the fourth period but could not avoid the loss. Bastian Doreth (183-G-89) and Per Gunther accounted for 11 points each for Germany. Jason Detrick (198-G-80, agency: Court Side, college: Oklahoma) and Rasid Mahalbasic (210-F/C-90) posted 17 points each for Austria. Sebastian Koch (200-F-88) netted 13 points in the loss.

Austria: Jason Detrick 17, Rasid Mahalbasic 17, Sebastian Koch 13
Germany: Tim Ohlbrecht 12, Bastian Doreth 11, Per Gunther 11

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BELARUS

U16 European Championship: Belarus edge Georgia in Division B - by Eurobasket News

Belarus U16-Georgia U16 74:66

Belarus edge Georgia in Division B at the U16 European Championship. The team from Belarus won over the opponents at the Classification Round for 9th to 12th Place and will face Netherlands in the game for the 9th place tomorrow. Georgia meanwhile will take on Finland in the game for the 11-12 places.
Belarus won the first period 22-15 and had 7-point advantage at the halftime. Levan Gogaladze (191-PG-97) and Astapenka exchanged the baskets at the end of the half for 39:32 lead. Georgia meanwhile bounced back with 20-19 in the third period and reduced to 6 points. Zakradze cut it to 60:59 with 5 minutes to go, but Belarus pushed the tempo for good to seal a comfortable win.
Uladzislau Kandybovic (190-G-96) top-scored for the winners with 36 points and Maksim Salash (203-C-96) collected 16 points and the same number of rebounds. Roman Rubinshteyn (190-PG-96) followed them with 10 points. Levan Gogaladze and Giorgi Gugeshashvili (197-F-96) finished the game with 15 points in the losing effort. Davit Lomidze (187-SG-97) poured in 12, whilst Willy Isiani (195-PF-97) notched 6.

Belarus U16: Uladzislau Kandybovic 36, Maksim Salash 16+16 rebs, Roman Rubinshteyn 10
Georgia U16: Levan Gogaladze 15, Giorgi Gugeshashvili 15, Davit Lomidze 12, Willy Isiani 6

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BELGIUM

U16 European Championship: Belgium advance to Division A - by Eurobasket News

Hungary U16-Belgium U16 48:50

Belgium advance to Division A at the U16 European Championship. The team won the Semifinal game against Hungary 50:68 and will play in the top Division next year. Hungary meanwhile will have another chance in the game for the third place tomorrow against Sweden.
The game was a real thriller in the court. At first Belgium won the first period 15:13 and then Hungary replied with 11-8 in the second frame. Nagy made a free throw at the end of the half to 24:23 halftime advantage. Belgium opened the third quarter with an 8-0 run and Mathieu Houdart (194-F-96) brought 31:24. Meszaros later reduced to 31:33 after three quarters. Csanad Antoni (193-SF-96) made two free throws early in the last stanza to tie the game but Ordane Kanda-Kanyinda (96) closed the run at 44:36. Belgium kept the advantage and won the game.
Mathieu Houdart and Ordane Kanda-Kanyinda top-scored for the winners with 15 points each, while Rayan Kayembe-Milongo (96) added 7. Gyorgy Goloman (204-F/C-96) delivered 17 points in defeat and Csanad Antoni scored 11.

Hungary U16: Gyorgy Goloman 17, Csanad Antoni 11
Belgium U16: Mathieu Houdart 15, Ordane Kanda-Kanyinda 15+11 rebs, Rayan Kayembe-Milongo 7

Mons Transfer - by Peter Buyse

Belfius Mons-Hainaut has added American guard Jonathan Wallace (187-G-86, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Georgetown) to their 2012-2013 roster. The former Georgetown Hoya has already extensive European experience. After finishing his career at Georgetown he headed to Europe to play for Olimpia Ljubljana in Slovenia and German team Oldenburg during the 2008-2009 season.
For 2009-2010 he heading back to the US to play for the D-league's Rio Grande Vipers, coached by former Mons coach Chris Finch. Rio Valley won the D-league title that season.
The past 2 seasons he was back in Germany playing for Bayern Munchen; first in the ProA league and this past season in the Bundesliga. In 38 games during the 20112012 season he averaged 8.9 ppg and 1.9 apg.He is a good 3pt shooter and an excellent FT shooter.

D1 Moves - by Peter Buyse

Former Gent and Antwerp Giant Graham Brown (205-C-84, college: Michigan) is headed to France to play for ProA team Le Havre. After 2 years in Portugal he played the past 4 in Belgium.
The former Michigan Wolverine was the second leading rebounder in Belgium last season with 7.9 rpg.

Spirou Charleroi point guard Demond Mallet (186-G-78, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: McNeese St.) will not be coming back to Belgium, he signed a 1 + 1contract some days ago with German Eurocup Artland Dragons.
According to a press release by his agent he could become the highest paid player in Artland history. Mallett has won championships in most of the countries he played in.

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BOSNIA

U16 European Championship: Lazics team wins the battle over Magdevski - by Eurobasket News

Bosnia and Herzegovina U16- F.Y.R. of Macedonia U16 79:69

Aleksandar Lazic (198-SG-96)s team wins the battle over Andrej Magdevski (190-G-96) as both players erupted for their teams at the Classification Games for 5th to 8th Place in U16 European Championship. Bosnia and Herzegovina U16 overcame F.Y.R. of Macedonia U16 79:69 and will play for the 5th place tomorrow against Israel. F.Y.R. of Macedonia meanwhile will face Portugal for the 7-8 places.
Bosnia and Herzegovina opened the game with 21-20 and added 19-14 in the second frame. Both teams nailed 15 points each in the third quarter, while F.Y.R. of Macedonia closed the period with a 12-0 run. Andrej Magdevski reduced to 65:61 midway through the last stanza, but his team could not win. Aleksandar Lazic made the last four free throws for his team for the final result.
Aleksandar Lazic top-scored for the winners with 32 points and 12 rebounds. Faris Smajlovic (199-F/C-96) nailed 11, while Ivo Garic (192-PG-96) added 10. Andrej Magdevski finished the game with 37 points in the losing effort. Kristijan Nikolov (185-G-96) scored 11, whilst Andrej Cvetkovski (185-G-96) delivered 10.

Bosnia and Herzegovina U16: Aleksandar Lazic 32+12 rebs, Faris Smajlovic 11, Ivo Garic 10, djorde Beronja (199-C-96) 8
F.Y.R. of Macedonia U16: Andrej Magdevski 37, Kristijan Nikolov 11, Andrej Cvetkovski 10

Fantastic performance of Aleksandar Lazic as BIH defeats Macedonia - by Nedzad Kladusak

After the bitter defeat of BIH cadets against Hungary our cadets played against Macedonia.
Coach Firic decided to start with Garic, Bevanda, Gacic, Aleksandar Lazic (198-SG-96) and Smajlovic using Gacic as a SF despite he is a classical PG.
BIH started red hot with a 10-2 run in only 2:30 minutes mainly to forced turnover. Particularly Aleksandar Lazic who promoted to the key player of this team put up a great performance and dominated both boards. After the time out Macedonia seemed to have the solution for the aggresive defense and quickly catched up with Bosnia by connecting two three pointers of Macedonian star player Magadevski and Dvojakovski. Firic reacted with the entry of aggressive rebounder Beronja and Sesar who scored four consecutive points in the paint. However Magadevski kept Macedonia in the match cutting the margin to 40-34.

In the second half Firic returned Gacic in the game and Bosnia-H. established a comfortable 15 points lead (55-40). Firic wanted to give also a chance to the players usually coming from the bench but like several times before the bosnian bench is significantly weaker than the starting five. In only three minutes Macedonia reduced the margin to only six points 55-49 at the end of the third quarter.
In the last quarter Firic fielded his starting five that had some problems to contain Magadevski who brought his team to a only 4 point trail (65:61) 3:48 minutes to go but led by fantastic Aleksandar Lazic who ended up with 32 points and 12 rebounds BIH secured a comfortable 79-69 win.

BIH: Lazic (32pts, 12 rebounds, 1blk, 3 assists), Smajlovic (11pts, 3 rebs), Garic (10pts ( FG 3/10), 3 ass), Beronja (8pts (FG 4/12), 8rebs), Sesar (5pts, 4 rebs in 6 minutes), Aleksic (5pts ( FG 2/7), 5 rebs in 23min), Balic (13min, 4pts (FG 1/6), Gacic (29min, 2pts, FG 0/5)

What are the lessons to be learned. Gacic is a pure PG with great handles, smartness and court vision. Using him as a SG or SF deprives him of all his assets. Bosnia lost its rhythm when too many bench player cam in. The current roster justifies a 6 or 7 player rotation.

In the last match Bosnia-H. will face Israel.

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BULGARIA

U16 European Championship: the hosts beat Bulgaria at the Classification Round - by Eurobasket News

Romania U16-Bulgaria U16 76:70

The hosts beat Bulgaria at the Classification Round for 13th to 16th Place at the U16 European Championship in Division B. Romanian won 76:70 and will play tomorrow for the 13th place against Denmark. Bulgaria meanwhile will take on Switzerland in the game for 15-16 places.
Bulgaria surprised the hosts with 27:20 lead in the first period. Romanian meanwhile bounced back with 18-12 as Ivanov closed the half at 39:38. Romanian trailed for the majority of the third quarter, however Barbasi tied the game at 54:54. Marius Ciotlaus (194-SF-96) later made the same at 63:63 and Caius-Gabriel Covrig (179-PG-96) closed the run at 70:63. Romanian managed to save the lead and won the game.
Marius Ciotlaus paced all the winners with 19 points and 11 rebounds, while Emanuel Cate (201-C-97) had 15 points and 14 rebounds. Caius-Gabriel Covrig netted 13 and Nandor Kuti (194-SG-97) posted 12. Vangelov answered with 16 points in the losing effort and Rumen Vasilev (200-C-96) nailed 12. Denis Petkov (171-PG-96) poured in 11 points and Ivanov added 10.

Romania U16: Marius Ciotlaus 19+11 rebs, Emanuel Cate 15+14 rebs, Caius-Gabriel Covrig 13, Nandor Kuti 12
Bulgaria U16: Vangelov 16, Rumen Vasilev 12, Denis Petkov 11, Ivanov 10

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CROATIA

U16 European Championship: Poland prevail against Croatia - by Eurobasket News

Poland U16 - Croatia U16 82:76

Poland celebrated victory in the classification round for 5th-8th place at U16 European Championship. They knocked down Croatia tonight. Marek Zywert (185-SG-96) stepped up with 17 points and 6 assists for the winners.
Croatia jumped to an early lead. The former champions built a 19:15 advantage ten minutes into the game. Poland bounced back in the second quarter. They erased the deficit and posted a 35:33 halftime advantage. Croatia spurred back in front in the third quarter. They ensured a 53:48 lead with ten minutes remaining. Poland used a 10:0 run midway through the final term to take a 62:60 lead. The margin grew at 9-point mark soon. Poland did not loosen the grip and marched to the victory at the end. Grzegorz Kulka (192-PF-96) and Kamil Zywert (188-PG-96) accounted for 14 points each for the winners. Luka Bozic (188-PG-96) answered with 17 points for Croatia. Marko Arapovic (207-C/F-96) had 16 points in the loss.

Poland U16: Marek Zywert 17, Grzegorz Kulka 14, Kamil Zywert 14
Croatia U16: Luka Bozic 17, Marko Arapovic 16

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CYPRUS

Great owner for Linos Gavriel - by Michael Aristidou

Cypriot coach Linos Gavriel became the first Cypriot coach who will work abroad as head coach. Linos Gavriel will be head coach of last season African champion Etoile du Sahel from Tunisia. The team also won the double last season divison1 of Tunisia.

On his first statement as head coach of the team Linos Gavriel said
Is a great owner that the team chooses me to be their head coach. My goals are the same with the team, and that is the reason that I am here. I will try to do my best in order the team to win the double in the league and the African champion league. Special thanks to the people that help this dream to became true

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CZECH REPUBLIC

DENMARK

U16 European Championship: Denmark fire past Switzerland - by Eurobasket News

Denmark U16 - Switzerland U16 95:49

Denmark marched past Switzerland in the classification round game at U16 European Championship in Division B. Alexander Von Spreckelsen (198-F-96) came up with 15 points to lead the Scandinavian team.
Denmark cleared off to a 20:14 lead at the first break. They poured in 33 points in the second quarter to clear off. Denmark accounted for a 53:23 halftime advantage. Denmark dominated in the second half. They built an insurmountable 34-point lead heading into the fourth frame. Switzerland scored just 8 points in the final period and had to surrender at the end. Mads Hansen (194-G-96) knocked down 14 points, while Jacob Larsen (204-PF-97) added 12 points for Denmark. Christian Tukama (190-PF-97) responded with 12 points for Switzerland. Luka Mandic (195-F-96) netted 9 points in the loss.

Denmark U16: Alexander Von Spreckelsen 15, Mads Hansen 14, Jacob Larsen 12
Switzerland U16: Christian Tukama 12, Luka Mandic 9

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ESTONIA

EUROCUP

Lokomotiv Kuban adds size, with Aleks Maric - by Diamadis Farmakis

Lokomotiv Kuban Krasnodar improved its frontcourt for its Eurocup return next season by inking center Aleks Maric (211-C-84, college: Nebraska), the club announced Friday. Maric (2.11 meters, 27 years old) arrives from Panathinaikos Athens.

Last season, he averaged 3.8 points and 2.6 rebounds in 21 Turkish Airlines Euroleague games and he helped the Greens to win the Greek Cup title and reach the Final Four, while In 2010-11, he allowed Panathinaikos to lift the Greek League trophy and win its sixth Euroleague title and In 2009-10 - He had a breakout season with Partizan mt:s Belgrade, averaging 14.6 points and 8.4 rebounds in 18 Euroleague games as the team reached Final Four for the first time since 1998. They also won the Adriatic League, Serbian League and Serbian Cup titles together.

Maric was voted to the All-Euroleague first team and was chosen December MVP in just his first season in the competition. He also earned weekly MVP awards for regular season weeks 7 and 8. Unknown to most fans before that season, Maric made a splash by recording a 49 index rating - tying the best single-game performance in the entire 2009-10 season - with his brilliant 34-point, 16-rebound performance against Efes Pilsen in regular season Week 7.

Cholet sign A.J. Slaughter - by Eurobasket News

Cholet bolstered their backcourt. They signed contract with A.J. Slaughter (191-G-87, college: W.Kentucky). The guard spent the previous season in Belgium. He played for Dexia Mons-Hainaut. A.J. Slaughter notched 13.0 points, 3.0 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.4 steals per game in EuroCup. In Belgian League the guard averaged 11.6 points, 2.6 boards, 2.9 assists and 1.5 steals per appearance. The guard made it into Belgian Cup and Belgian League semis with Dexia Mons-Hainaut. Previously A.J. Slaughter played in Italy. He started his pro career with Angelico Biella. His stats read 10.5 points, 2.3 rebounds, 1.5 steals and 1.3 assists per game in SeriaA.

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EUROLEAGUE

Maccabi Tel-Aviv land David Logan - by Eurobasket News

Maccabi Tel-Aviv bolstered their backcourt. They agreed on terms of contract with David Logan (184-G-82, college: Indianapolis). The guard inked a two-year deal with the Israeli powerhouse. David Logan spent the previous season with Panathinaikos. He tallied 6.9 points, 1.1 assists and 1.1 steals per game in Euroleague. In A1 League the guard notched 9.0 points, 1.3 rebounds, 1.3 assists and 1.3 steals per appearance. Previously David Logan had stints with Caja Laboral, Asseco Prokom, PGE Turow, Polpharma, Fort Wayne Flyers and Edimes Pavia. Eurobasket.com named David Logan All-Polish League Player of the Year in 2009 and 2010. The guard participated at PLK All-Star Game in 2009, 2010 and 2011. David Logan was the member of Polish National Team in 2009.

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EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U16

M-Standings - Group A

Standings

Group E
1. Italy		5-0
2. Turkey		3-2
3. Croatia		3-2
4. Spain		2-3
5. Ukraine		1-4
6. Latvia		1-4
Group F
1. Serbia		4-1
2. France		3-2
3. Germany		3-2
4. Poland		2-3
5. Lithuania		2-3
6. Greece		1-4
Group G (places 13-16)
1. Russia		5-0
2. Czech Rep.		2-3
3. U.Kingdom		1-3
4. Slovenia		1-3

Semi-Finals: Round 8

11-12 Place

Jul. 28: UKR - LTU 71-82

5-8 Place

Jul. 28: GER - ESP 88-64
Jul. 28: POL - CRO 82-76

9-10 Place

Jul. 28: LAT - GRE 46-63

Jul. 28: RUS - CZE 69-67
Jul. 28: SLO - ENG 66-64

Semifinal

Jul. 28: ITA - FRA 71-80
Jul. 28: SRB - TUR 62-67

Finals: Round 9

3-4 Place

Jul. 29: ITA - SRB

5-6 Place

Jul. 29: POL - GER

7-8 Place

Jul. 29: ESP - CRO

FINAL

Jul. 29: FRA - TUR

Jul. 29: CZE - SLO
Jul. 29: RUS - ENG

Stats Leaders - Group A

Points Per Game

Matej SVOBODA
(200-PF-96)
Avg: 19.5

1. Svoboda, CZE	19.5
2. Arapovic, CRO	18.4
3. Kobets, UKR	16.4
4. Stamatis, GRE	15.9
5. Mazalin, CRO	15.9
6. Garcia, ESP	15.5
7. Avenitis, LAT	15.0
8. Mussini, ITA	14.8
9. Meznieks, LAT	14.5
10. Sabonis, LTU	14.1

Rebounds Per Game

Domantas SABONIS
(199-PF-96)
Avg: 14.4

1. Sabonis, LTU	14.4
2. Lazarevic, SRB	10.5
3. Karpenkov, RUS	9.1
4. Oliva, ITA	9.0
5. Donzelli, ITA	8.9
6. Bozic, CRO	8.4
7. Oghide, ENG	8.4
8. Malmanis, LAT	7.9
9. Arapovic, CRO	7.8
10. Wimberg, GER	7.4

Assists Per Game

Dominykas ZUPKAUSKAS
(184-PG-96)
Avg: 6.9

1. Zupkauskas, LTU	6.9
2. Gavrilov, RUS	5.0
3. Zywert, POL	4.6
4. Akodo, ENG	4.5
5. Ory, FRA	4.3
6. Cima, LAT	4.2
7. Mazalin, CRO	4.1
8. Gecim, TUR	3.8
9. Schmitt, GER	3.6
10. Toliopoulos, GRE	3.1

Steals Per Game

Marek ZYWERT
(185-SG-96)
Avg: 3.5

1. Zywert, POL	3.5
2. Arapovic, CRO	3.3
3. Ory, FRA	2.5
4. Donzelli, ITA	2.5
5. Svoboda, CZE	2.4
6. Wlodarczyk, POL	2.3
7. Pryimak, UKR	2.3
8. Rossato, ITA	2.0
9. Mussini, ITA	2.0
10. Charalampopo., GRE	1.9

Blocks Per Game

Georgios PAPAGIANNIS
(210-C-97)
Avg: 2.4

1. Papagiannis, GRE	2.4
2. Guven, TUR	2.0
3. Wimberg, GER	1.9
4. Cavars, LAT	1.8
5. Pruefer, POL	1.4
6. Malmanis, LAT	1.4
7. Pryimak, UKR	1.4
8. Sabonis, LTU	1.4
9. Skranc, CZE	1.3
10. Ulubay, TUR	1.3

Div.C Standings

Standings

Group A
1. Monaco		3-0
2. San Marino		2-1
3. Malta		1-2
4. Wales		0-3
Group B
1. Scotland		2-0
2. Gibraltar		1-1
3. Andorra		0-2

Semi-Finals: Round 4

Places 5-7

Jul. 28: AND - WAL 84-65

Semis 1

Jul. 28: SCO - SMR 72-32

Semis 2

Jul. 28: MON - GIB 78-37

Finals: Round 5

Final

Jul. 29: MON - SCO

Places 3-4

Jul. 29: GIB - SMR

Places 5-7

Jul. 29: AND - MLT

Montenegro and Belgium clinch Division A promotion - by Eurobasket News

Classification Rounds

Holland - Finland 76-59
Netherlands won over the Nordic side at the U16 European Championship in Division B. The Dutch side grabbed a 76:59 win at the Classification Round for 9th to 12th Place. Tomorrow Netherlands will play against Belarus in the game for the 9-10 places. Finland meanwhile will take on Georgia in the game for the 11-12 places. Finland started the game better and reached 18-9 lead after the first 10 minutes of the game. Another three quarters however belonged to Netherlands. The latter won the second frame 21-13 and then added 20-16 in the third period. Moreover the Dutch team 26-12 in the last stanza to seal the victory. Lennart Overdevest (184-SG-96), Franke and Boezeman combined for 52 points for the winners. Alanen answered with 18 points and 11 rebounds, while Henri Niemisto (194-G-96) added 13. Hirvonen and Tahvanainen chipped in with 6 points each in a loss.

Belarus - Georgia 74-66
Belarus edge Georgia in Division B at the U16 European Championship. The team from Belarus won over the opponents at the Classification Round for 9th to 12th Place and will face Netherlands in the game for the 9th place tomorrow. Georgia meanwhile will take on Finland in the game for the 11-12 places. Belarus won the first period 22-15 and had 7-point advantage at the halftime. Levan Gogaladze (191-PG-97) and Astapenka exchanged the baskets at the end of the half for 39:32 lead. Georgia meanwhile bounced back with 20-19 in the third period and reduced to 6 points. Luka Zakradze (187-PG-96) cut it to 60:59 with 5 minutes to go, but Belarus pushed the tempo for good to seal a comfortable win. Kandybovic top-scored for the winners with 36 points and Salash collected 16 points and the same number of rebounds. Rubinshteyn followed them with 10 points. Levan Gogaladze and Gugeshashvili finished the game with 15 points in the losing effort. Lomidze poured in 12, whilst Willy Isiani (195-PF-97) notched 6.

Denmark - Switzerland 95-49
Denmark marched past Switzerland in the classification round game at U16 European Championship in Division B. Alexander Von Spreckelsen came up with 15 points to lead the Scandinavian team. Denmark cleared off to a 20:14 lead at the first break. They poured in 33 points in the second quarter to clear off. Denmark accounted for a 53:23 halftime advantage. Denmark dominated in the second half. They built an insurmountable 34-point lead heading into the fourth frame. Switzerland scored just 8 points in the final period and had to surrender at the end. Mads Hansen (194-G-96) knocked down 14 points, while Jacob Larsen (204-PF-97) added 12 points for Denmark. Christian Tukama responded with 12 points for Switzerland. Luka Mandic netted 9 points in the loss.

Romania - Bulgaria 76-70
The hosts beat Bulgaria at the Classification Round for 13th to 16th Place at the U16 European Championship in Division B. Romanian won 76:70 and will play tomorrow for the 13th place against Denmark. Bulgaria meanwhile will take on Switzerland in the game for 15-16 places. Bulgaria surprised the hosts with 27:20 lead in the first period. Romanian meanwhile bounced back with 18-12 as Ivanov closed the half at 39:38. Romanian trailed for the majority of the third quarter, however Barbasi tied the game at 54:54. Ciotlaus later made the same at 63:63 and Caius-Gabriel Covrig (179-PG-96) closed the run at 70:63. Romanian managed to save the lead and won the game. Ciotlaus paced all the winners with 19 points and 11 rebounds, while Cate had 15 points and 14 rebounds. Caius-Gabriel Covrig netted 13 and Kuti posted 12. Vangelov answered with 16 points in the losing effort and Vasilev nailed 12. Petkov poured in 11 points and Ivanov added 10.

5-8 places

Bosnia - FYR Macedonia 79-69
Lazic's team wins the battle over Magdevski as both players erupted for their teams at the Classification Games for 5th to 8th Place in U16 European Championship. Bosnia and Herzegovina U16 overcame F.Y.R. of Macedonia U16 79:69 and will play for the 5th place tomorrow against Israel. F.Y.R. of Macedonia meanwhile will face Portugal for the 7-8 places. Bosnia and Herzegovina opened the game with 21-20 and added 19-14 in the second frame. Both teams nailed 15 points each in the third quarter, while F.Y.R. of Macedonia closed the period with a 12-0 run. Magdevski reduced to 65:61 midway through the last stanza, but his team could not win. Lazic made the last four free throws for his team for the final result. Lazic top-scored for the winners with 32 points and 12 rebounds. Smajlovic nailed 11, while Garic added 10. Magdevski finished the game with 37 points in the losing effort. Nikolov scored 11, whilst Cvetkovski delivered 10.

Israel - Portugal 73-64
Israel outscore Portugal in Bucharest at the U16 European Championship in Division B. The Israel team opened Classification Games for 5th to 8th Place with a 73:64 win and will play for the 5th place tomorrow. Portugal meanwhile will face F.Y.R. of Macedonia in the game for 7-8 places. Israel came up with 22-9 in the first period, while Portugal produced a 19-12 surge in the second frame. Blatt nailed three to close the half at 34:28 for Israel. Diogo Araujo (189-SG-97) reduced to minimum 40:39, but Portugal could not come closer. Artzi and Paz closed the third frame at 48:43 and Huber scored for 54:43. Israel added 25-21 in the last stanza to seal the victory. Blatt stepped up with 24 points for the winners and Holodov nailed 22. Artzi collected 10 points and 10 rebounds, while Huber added 6. Francisco Amiel (186-PG-96) poured in 15 points in defeat, while Mendes scored 11.

SEMIFINAL

Hungary - Belgium 48-50
Belgium advance to Division A at the U16 European Championship. The team won the Semifinal game against Hungary 50:68 and will play in the top Division next year. Hungary meanwhile will have another chance in the game for the third place tomorrow against Sweden. The game was a real thriller in the court. At first Belgium won the first period 15:13 and then Hungary replied with 11-8 in the second frame. Nagy made a free throw at the end of the half to 24:23 halftime advantage. Belgium opened the third quarter with an 8-0 run and Mathieu Houdart (194-F-96) brought 31:24. Meszaros later reduced to 31:33 after three quarters. Antoni made two free throws early in the last stanza to tie the game but Kanda-Kanyinda closed the run at 44:36. Belgium kept the advantage and won the game. Mathieu Houdart and Kanda-Kanyinda top-scored for the winners with 15 points each, while Kayembe-Milongo added 7. Gyorgy Goloman (204-F/C-96) delivered 17 points in defeat and Antoni scored 11.

Sweden - Montenegro 66-71
Montenegro clinch promotion at the U16 European Championship Division B. The team will play in Division A next year as they won the Semifinal game over Sweden 71:66. The Scandinavian team will have another chance to advance tomorrow in the game for the third place. Sweden grabbed 18-12 lead after the first 10 minutes and had 5-point advantage at the halftime. It was not however enough as Montenegro dominated the rest of the game. They won the third period 22-14 and closed the game with 24-22 in the last stanza. Petar Popovic (188-PG-96) top-scored for the winners with 21 points and Nikolic as well as Dozic had 11 each. Milos Andelic (171-PG-96) and Novosel delivered 10 points each in a win. Andreas von Uthmann and Ludvig Hakanson (190-PG-96) finished the game with 19 points each in defeat.

Principality of Monaco and Scotalnd advanced to the Final in Gibraltar - by Eurobasket News

Principality of Monaco U16-Gibraltar U16 78:37

Principality of Monaco advanced to the Final at the U16 European Championship in Division C. The team won over Gibraltar 78:37 in the Semifinal game. In the Final game Scotland will face Monaco, while San Marino will take on the hosts.
Principality of Monaco opened the game with a 21-0 run and Pierrick Motillon (177-PG-97) closed the period at 26:3. Pieper nailed three in the start of the second frame for 37:9 and Clement Marechal (180-G-96) added 5 more in a row for 44:11. Principality of Monaco dominated the court and proved their ambitions for the top places. They added 15-11 in the third quarter and finished the game with 19-15 in the last stanza.
Alessandro Generale (185-C-96) top-scored for the winners with 20 points and 11 rebounds, while Pierrick Motillon nailed 17. Pieper scored 12 and Clement Marechal added 9. Jake Haefner (185-G/F-97) collected 8 points and 11 rebounds in defeat and Perez notched 7.

Principality of Monaco U16: Alessandro Generale 20+11 rebs, Pierrick Motillon 17, Pieper 12, Clement Marechal 9
Gibraltar U16: Jake Haefner 8+11 rebs, Perez 7

Scotland U16-San Marino U16 72:32

Scotland advanced to the Final of the U16 European Championship in Division C. The Scottish team did not have any problems beating San Marino 72:32 in Gibraltar. In the Final game Scotland will face Monaco, while San Marino will take on the hosts.
Scotland started the game on a high note and won the first period 20:11. They scored the same number of points in the second quarter and allowed the opponents to finish with 5. Neill closed the half at 40:16 and Fraser Malcolm (186-SF-96) later scored four in a row for 44:19 advantage. Mareth Kuriakosem and Giannotti exchanged the late baskets in the third period for 57:26 on the board. Scotland managed to add 15-6 in the last stanza for the final success.
Fraser Malcolm top-scored for the winners with 13 points and Neill netted 12. Fraser Malcolm Winning (186-SG-96) poured in 11, while Gray added 9. Igor Biordi (200-C-96) finished the game with 12 points and Gambi scored 10 in defeat.

Scotland U16: Fraser Malcolm 13, Neill 12, Fraser Malcolm Winning 11, Gray 9
San Marino U16: Igor Biordi 12, Gambi 10

Wales U16-Andorra U16 65:84

Wales finished U16 European Championship on the last spot in Division C. The team lost to Andorra 65:84 as the latter will play for the 5-6 places against Malta.
Andorra started with 19-15 and dominated the first half. They added 21-18 in the second frame to take 40:33 lead at the halftime. Moreover Andorra won the third and the last quarters. They produced a 21-17 burst in the third frame and finished the game with 23-15 in the last quarter. Blanca Salinas was the last player to bring the points for the winning side.
Roger Valero (190-F-97) top-scored for the winners with 20 points and Jordana netted 17. Lameiras De Carvalho delivered 11, while Blanca Salinas posted 10. Joshua Thomas (182-PG-96) ended up with 20 points in the losing effort and Nico-Pele Wilson (190-PF-96) added 12. Goulbourne collected 10 points and 12 boards in defeat, whilst Jones notched 7.

Wales U16: Joshua Thomas 20, Nico-Pele Wilson 12, Goulbourne 10+12 rebs, Jones 7
Andorra U16: Roger Valero 20, Jordana 17, Lameiras De Carvalho 11, Blanca Salinas 10

France and Turkey will clash for the title in Vilnius - by Eurobasket News

Semifinals

Serbia - Turkey 62-67
Okben Ulubay (200-F-97) scored 12 points in the decisive fourth quarter to lead Turkey past Serbia in the semifinal battle at U16 European Championship in Vilnius tonight. He finished with 17 points and 9 rebounds to secure the place in the title game for Turkey. Ogulcan Baykan (195-SG-96) topscored with 18 points for Turkey. Serbia led by as many as 6 points ten minutes into the game 22:16. They stretched the lead to 11 points midway through the second quarter. Turkey managed to get within 7 at halftime 29:36. But Turkey limited their opponents to just 6 points in the third term to take a 44:42 lead at the final intermission. Ivan Daskalovic (199-SG-96) put Serbia back in charge midway through the fourth frame but Okben Ulubay, Gecim and Ogulcan Baykan made it 61:56 for Turkey. Ivan Daskalovic put Serbia within a single point twice but Okben Ulubay and Ogulcan Baykan converted four free throws late in regulation to seal the win for Turkey. Mert Cevik and Akif Guven had 8 points each for the winners. Ivan Daskalovic answered with 18 points for Serbia. Vasilije Vucetic had 16 points in the loss.

Italy - France 71-80
France will play in the title game at U16 European Championship in Latvia and Lithuania. They held off previously undefeated Italy in Vilnius tonight. Antoine Wallez (202-PF-96) came up with 20 points to lead the charge. France will now take on Turkey for the trophy. France jumped ahead early in the game. They recorded a 21:16 lead at the first break. Italy however adjusted offensively scoring 24 points in the second term. They got within a single point at halftime 40:41. Italy pulled ahead in the third frame. The Azzurri arrived at the final break up by two points 63:61. However France opened the fourth quarter on an 11:0 run to regain the advantage. Italy never came back to life as France cruised to the victory at the end. Lenny Charles-Catherine (194-G-96) accounted for 16 points, while Salem Mana and Cyrille Eliezer-Vanerot had 8 points each in the win. Federico Mussini (179-PG-96) responded with 22 points for Italy. Daniel Donzelli provided 20 points and 11 rebounds in the loss.

5-8 Place

Germany - Spain 88-64
Germany will play for the 5th overall position at U16 European Championship. They marched past Spain tonight to set up the clash versus Poland tomorrow. Jan Wimberg (202-G-96) came up with 16 points and 13 boards for the winners. Germany dropped 24 points in the first quarter to take an 8-point lead. They unloaded 29 points in the second frame to stretch the margin. Germany enjoyed a 53:34 lead at halftime. Spain stopped the rot in the third term. They adjusted defensively cutting the deficit to 14 points with ten minutes remaining. But Germany ignited a 20:10 run in the fourth frame to secure a comfortable win at the end. Kevin Casper (199-F-96) and Mahir Agva (202-C-96) nailed 13 points each for the winners. David Martinez (203-F-96) answered with 13 points for Spain. Carlos Martinez had 12 points in the loss.

Poland - Croatia 82-76
Poland celebrated victory in the classification round for 5th-8th place at U16 European Championship. They knocked down Croatia tonight. Marek Zywert (185-SG-96) stepped up with 17 points and 6 assists for the winners. Croatia jumped to an early lead. The former champions built a 19:15 advantage ten minutes into the game. Poland bounced back in the second quarter. They erased the deficit and posted a 35:33 halftime advantage. Croatia spurred back in front in the third quarter. They ensured a 53:48 lead with ten minutes remaining. Poland used a 10:0 run midway through the final term to take a 62:60 lead. The margin grew at 9-point mark soon. Poland did not loosen the grip and marched to the victory at the end. Grzegorz Kulka (192-PF-96) and Kamil Zywert (188-PG-96) accounted for 14 points each for the winners. Luka Bozic (188-PG-96) answered with 17 points for Croatia. Marko Arapovic had 16 points in the loss.

9-10 Place

Latvia - Greece 46-63
Greece finished their U16 European Championship campaign on a high note. They bettered Latvia to clinch the 9th position. Dimitrios Stamatis (192-G-96) stepped up with 15 points to lead the Hellenes. Greece started strongly. They accounted for a 16:11 lead at the first break. Greece stretched the lead at the second quarter. They established a 37:21 halftime buffer. Latvia slowed their opponents a bit in the third term. Latvia cut the deficit at 14-point mark with one quarter remaining. Greece held the Baltic team to 11 points in the final period and sealed a comfortable win at the end. Konstantinos Zorzos (188-PG-96) notched 13 points, while Nikolaos Andreadis netted 6 points for the winners. Rudolfs Stradnieks (202-C-96) answered with 14 points for Latvia. Davis Zonne netted 12 points in the loss.

11-12 Place

Ukraine - Lithuania 71-82
Lithuania occupied the 11th overall place at U16 European Championship. The hosts fired past Ukraine tonight. Matas Budrys (193-G/F-96) stepped up with 20 points to pace the Baltic team. Lithuania ensured a 5:0 start to the game and dominated throughout the opening quarter. They posted a 22:16 lead ten minutes into the game. Ukraine managed to level things up at 25 midway through the second term but the hosts secured a 33:31 halftime advantage. The lead changed hands throughout the third period but Lithuania finished it strongly to pile up a 7-point advantage 56:49. Matas Budrys and Rupkus made it 61:49 for Lithuania at the start of the fourth period. Ukraine never recovered in the following minutes as the home team cruised to the victory. Aidas Einikis (191-SG-96) accounted for 16 points, while Domantas Pavlovskis and Dominykas Zupkauskas added 10 points each in the victory. Oleksandr Kobets (192-SF-96) responded with 25 points for Ukraine. Illya Sydorov and Nikita Voievoda chipped in 8 points each in the loss.

Group G

Russia - Czech Republic 69-67
Russia clinched the fifth straight win in the classification round Group G at U16 European Championship today. They defeated Czech Republic to clinch the top position in the ladder. Russia thus stayed in Division A for the next year. Czech Republic fell at 2-3 record and would not avoid relegation. Ilya Karpenkov (200-C-97) led the winners with 18 points and 9 rebounds. Russia enjoyed an 18:14 lead after ten minutes. They stretched the lead in the second quarter. Russia posted a 40:30 halftime lead. Czech Republic however managed to narrow the gap at 6-point mark at the final intermission. Skranc put Czech Republic within one 61:62 midway through the final frame. Czech Republic then grabbed a 67:64 lead but Ilya Karpenkov and Aleksandr Zuev capped regulation with five straight points to seal the victory for Russia. Pavel Afanasev (194-SG-96) accounted for 11 points, while Aleksandr Zuev and Mikhail Maleyko delivered 10 points each in the win. Matej Svoboda (200-PF-96) answered with 14 points for Czech Republic. Marek Mares netted 10 points in the loss.

Slovenia - United Kingdom 66-64
Slovenia earned victory on the last but one day of action at U16 European Championship. They held off England for 2-3 record in Group G. England fell at 1-4 record after the loss. Matej Kavas (193-G-96) stepped up with 16 points to lead the charge. England led by four points after ten minutes of action 20:16. They maintained the lead in the second quarter. The English team posted a 35:30 halftime advantage. England extended the lead in the third frame. They secured a 9-point buffer heading into the fourth quarter 52:43. Matej Kavas and Slutej drained three-pointers early in the final frame to set the tone. Slutej and Matej Kavas connected for two more treys as Slovenia earned a 64:60 lead. Domen Janc made it 66:62 for Slovenia and they stayed in charge till the final buzzer. Tilen Kodrin (202-SF-96) posted 13 points and 12 rebounds, while Domen Janc added 12 points for Slovenia. Ikponmwosa Oghide (96) responded with 17 points and 9 rebounds for England. Joe Mvuezolo chipped in 14 points in the loss.

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FINLAND

Pyrinto sign contracts with Ville Pekkola and Michael Myllyniemi - by Eurobasket News

Pyrinto are shaping up the roster for the next season. They have secured the services of Ville Pekkola (190-G-89) and Michael Myllyniemi (180-SF-94) for the next season.
Ville Pekkola have extended the contract with the team. He joined Pyrinto at the start of the previous season. The guard notched 1.4 points per game in Tampere. Previously Ville Pekkola had stints with Namika Lahti and Lappeenranta NMKY. He was Finnish League champion back in 2009.
Michael Myllyniemi joined the senior team after the season with Pyrinto Tampere II. The forward averaged 2.4 points and 1.5 rebounds per game in 1st Division. Michael Myllyniemi also played for U19 Pyrinto team.

U16 European Championship: Netherlands won over the Nordic side - by Eurobasket News

Netherlands U16-Finland U16 76:59

Netherlands won over the Nordic side at the U16 European Championship in Division B. The Dutch side grabbed a 76:59 win at the Classification Round for 9th to 12th Place. Tomorrow Netherlands will play against Belarus in the game for the 9-10 places. Finland meanwhile will take on Georgia in the game for the 11-12 places.
Finland started the game better and reached 18-9 lead after the first 10 minutes of the game. Another three quarters however belonged to Netherlands. The latter won the second frame 21-13 and then added 20-16 in the third period. Moreover the Dutch team 26-12 in the last stanza to seal the victory.
Lennart Overdevest (184-SG-96), Yannick Franke (185-G-96) and Robert Boezeman (198-PF-96) combined for 52 points for the winners. Aapeli Alanen (197-F-96) answered with 18 points and 11 rebounds, while Henri Niemisto (194-G-96) added 13. Tuomas Hirvonen (175-G-96) and Joonas Tahvanainen (198-F-96) chipped in with 6 points each in a loss.

Netherlands U16: Lennart Overdevest 18, Yannick Franke 17, Robert Boezeman 17
Finland U16: Aapeli Alanen 18+11 rebs, Henri Niemisto 13, Tuomas Hirvonen 6, Joonas Tahvanainen 6

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FRANCE

Roanne and Thomas Larrouquis part ways - by Eurobasket News

Thomas Larrouquis (197-G/F-85) will not be longer the player of Roanne. The guard has agreed on terms of contract termination with the team. Thomas Larrouquis joined Roanne at the start of the previous season. He notched 3.3 points and 1.9 rebounds per game in EuroChallenge. In ProA his stats read 4.4 points and 1.9 rebounds per appearance. Previously Thomas Larrouquis had stints with Vichy, Cholet, Limoges, Stade Clermontois. He was ProA champion in 2010. The guard also played in EuroChallenge Final in 2009. Thomas Larrouquis was the member of U20 French National Team. The guard debuted for French National Team in 2006.

Roanne land Matt Howard - by Eurobasket News

Roanne strengthened their roster. They agreed on terms of contract with Matt Howard (203-F-89, college: Butler). The power forward tipped off the previous season in Greece. He played for Olympiakos Pireus. Matt Howard averaged 4.0 points and 1.5 boards per game in A1 League. In Euroleague the forward notched 1.0 point per game. In February Matt Howard moved to Ludwigsburg in Germany. His stats read 12.1 points, 5.8 rebounds, 2.2 assists in BBL. It was the first pro season for the college standout. Matt Howard graduated from Butler in 2011. He was All-Horizon League MVP in 2011. Matt Howard was also trumped Capital One Academic All-America Player of the Year in his senior season.

U16 European Championship: France stop Italy to reach Final - by Eurobasket News

France U16 - Italy U16 80:71

France will play in the title game at U16 European Championship in Latvia and Lithuania. They held off previously undefeated Italy in Vilnius tonight. Antoine Wallez (202-PF-96) came up with 20 points to lead the charge. France will now take on Turkey for the trophy.
France jumped ahead early in the game. They recorded a 21:16 lead at the first break. Italy however adjusted offensively scoring 24 points in the second term. They got within a single point at halftime 40:41. Italy pulled ahead in the third frame. The Azzurri arrived at the final break up by two points 63:61. However France opened the fourth quarter on an 11:0 run to regain the advantage. Italy never came back to life as France cruised to the victory at the end. Lenny Charles-Catherine (194-G-96) accounted for 16 points, while Salem Mana (189-G-96) and Cyrille Eliezer-Vanerot (194-F-96) had 8 points each in the win. Federico Mussini (179-PG-96) responded with 22 points for Italy. Daniel Donzelli (199-SG-96) provided 20 points and 11 rebounds in the loss.

France U16: Antoine Wallez 20, Lenny Charles-Catherine 16, Salem Mana 8, Cyrille Eliezer-Vanerot 8
Italy U16: Federico Mussini 22, Daniel Donzelli 20+11 boards

Le Havre bring in Graham Brown - by Eurobasket News

Le Havre bolstered their frontcourt. They agreed on terms of contract with Graham Brown (205-C-84, college: Michigan). The centre played in Belgium during the last season. He was the member of Optima Gent squad. Graham Brown averaged 11.2 points, 7.9 rebounds and 1.1 steals per game in D1. Eurobasket.com gave the centre All-Belgian League Honourable Mention. Previously Graham Brown had stints with Antwerp Giants, Ovarense and Lusitania. Eurobasket.com named Graham Brown All-Portuguese League Centre of the Year in 2007. He was then trumped All-Portuguese League Defensive Player of the Year in 2008. Graham Brown was Portuguese Cup and League winners in 2008. He also played in Belgian League semis in 2009 and 2010.

Wayne Chism inks with Aix-Maurienne - by Eurobasket News

Wayne Chism (206-F-87, college: Tennessee) inks with Aix-Maurienne for the upcoming season. The 206 cm tall Wayne Chism moves from Hungary.
Last year he signed his one year deal with Sopron. Wayne graduated on the University of Tennessee and had a real good career in one of the top conferences - SEC - in the NCAA. As a junior he averaged 13.7 points and 8.0 rebounds, as a senior he put up 12.8 points and 7.2 rebounds per game and led his team into the Elite Eight in the NCAA tournament. During the summer 2010 he was tested by NBA teams and played also in the NBA Summer League for the Nets and Kings in Las Vegas.
Wayne Chism started his professional career in the high level European league of Turkey, but had some small injury and left the club of Antalya only after playing 4 games. He moved in January to the Fort Wayne Mad Ants and finished the season in the D-League. He played 27 games - started 16 of them - and averaged 8.5 points, 5.5 rebounds, 1.0 assist in only 19.4 minutes on the court.
The season 2011/2012 started for Kis-Raba menti Takarek Soproni KC (Hungary-A Division), only pre-season, then moved to Albacomp-UPC Szekesfehervar (Hungary-A Division, starting five). He averaged 10.8ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.3apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 59.7%, 3PT: 27.3%, FT: 65.3%.

Cholet sign A.J. Slaughter - by Eurobasket News

Cholet bolstered their backcourt. They signed contract with A.J. Slaughter (191-G-87, college: W.Kentucky). The guard spent the previous season in Belgium. He played for Dexia Mons-Hainaut. A.J. Slaughter notched 13.0 points, 3.0 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.4 steals per game in EuroCup. In Belgian League the guard averaged 11.6 points, 2.6 boards, 2.9 assists and 1.5 steals per appearance. The guard made it into Belgian Cup and Belgian League semis with Dexia Mons-Hainaut. Previously A.J. Slaughter played in Italy. He started his pro career with Angelico Biella. His stats read 10.5 points, 2.3 rebounds, 1.5 steals and 1.3 assists per game in SeriaA.

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FYR MACEDONIA

Brandon Wood is a newcomer at KK MZT Skopje Aerodrom - by Eurobasket Center

KK MZT Skopje Aerodrom strengthened their roster with addition of 23-year old American guard Brandon Wood (187-G-86kg-89, agency: N.E.T.). Wood played most recently at Michigan State (NCAA) after he transferred there from Valparaiso University (NCAA) in the U.S. It will be his first season in pro basketball. While playing last year 37 games with MSU, his stats were: 8.8ppg, 2.8rpg, and 1.9apg. He helped them to make it to NCAA Sweet 16 after his team won strong Big Ten Conference. He was also selected to NABC Division I All-District 12 twice (2010, 2011).

By Eurobasket Data Center

U16 European Championship: Lazics team wins the battle over Magdevski - by Eurobasket News

Bosnia and Herzegovina U16- F.Y.R. of Macedonia U16 79:69

Aleksandar Lazic (198-SG-96)s team wins the battle over Andrej Magdevski (190-G-96) as both players erupted for their teams at the Classification Games for 5th to 8th Place in U16 European Championship. Bosnia and Herzegovina U16 overcame F.Y.R. of Macedonia U16 79:69 and will play for the 5th place tomorrow against Israel. F.Y.R. of Macedonia meanwhile will face Portugal for the 7-8 places.
Bosnia and Herzegovina opened the game with 21-20 and added 19-14 in the second frame. Both teams nailed 15 points each in the third quarter, while F.Y.R. of Macedonia closed the period with a 12-0 run. Andrej Magdevski reduced to 65:61 midway through the last stanza, but his team could not win. Aleksandar Lazic made the last four free throws for his team for the final result.
Aleksandar Lazic top-scored for the winners with 32 points and 12 rebounds. Faris Smajlovic (199-F/C-96) nailed 11, while Ivo Garic (192-PG-96) added 10. Andrej Magdevski finished the game with 37 points in the losing effort. Kristijan Nikolov (185-G-96) scored 11, whilst Andrej Cvetkovski (185-G-96) delivered 10.

Bosnia and Herzegovina U16: Aleksandar Lazic 32+12 rebs, Faris Smajlovic 11, Ivo Garic 10, djorde Beronja (199-C-96) 8
F.Y.R. of Macedonia U16: Andrej Magdevski 37, Kristijan Nikolov 11, Andrej Cvetkovski 10

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GEORGIA

GERMANY

U16 European Championship: Jan Wimberg propels Germany past Spain - by Eurobasket News

Germany U16 - Spain U16 88:64

Germany will play for the 5th overall position at U16 European Championship. They marched past Spain tonight to set up the clash versus Poland tomorrow. Jan Wimberg (202-G-96) came up with 16 points and 13 boards for the winners.
Germany dropped 24 points in the first quarter to take an 8-point lead. They unloaded 29 points in the second frame to stretch the margin. Germany enjoyed a 53:34 lead at halftime. Spain stopped the rot in the third term. They adjusted defensively cutting the deficit to 14 points with ten minutes remaining. But Germany ignited a 20:10 run in the fourth frame to secure a comfortable win at the end. Kevin Casper (199-F-96) and Mahir Agva (202-C-96) nailed 13 points each for the winners. David Martinez (203-F-96) answered with 13 points for Spain. Carlos Martinez (198-F-96) had 12 points in the loss.

Germany U16: Jan Wimberg 16+13 boards, Kevin Casper 13, Mahir Agva 13
Spain U16: David Martinez 13, Carlos Martinez 12

Germany outgun Austria in Oberwart - by Eurobasket News

Austria - Germany 81:98

Germany celebrated the second straight win at the start of the international tournament in Oberwart. They knocked down hosting Austria for 2-0 record. Tim Ohlbrecht (211-C/F-88) scored 12 points to pace well-balanced effort from Pesic team.
Austria eked out a 24:21 lead after ten minutes. But Germany poured in 32 points in the second quarter to surge ahead. They established a 53:42 halftime lead. Germany dropped 28 points in the third term to take a 22-point lead at the final intermission. Austria narrowed the deficit in the fourth period but could not avoid the loss. Bastian Doreth (183-G-89) and Per Gunther accounted for 11 points each for Germany. Jason Detrick (198-G-80, agency: Court Side, college: Oklahoma) and Rasid Mahalbasic (210-F/C-90) posted 17 points each for Austria. Sebastian Koch (200-F-88) netted 13 points in the loss.

Austria: Jason Detrick 17, Rasid Mahalbasic 17, Sebastian Koch 13
Germany: Tim Ohlbrecht 12, Bastian Doreth 11, Per Gunther 11

Vic Morris (I Can Play Several Roles On A Team) - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Victor Morris (185-G-85, college: Cleveland St.)s a 25 year old 185cm guard from Inkster Michigan. He played at Cleveland St. From 2003-2007. In his senior season, he played 22 games: 7.5ppg, 2.5rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 38.7%, 3PT: 34.3%, FT: 84.0%. He came overseas in 2007 and played for TS Goeppingen (Germany-Regionalliga, starting five): 18 games: 20.3ppg, 5.0rpg, 6.0apg. In 2008-2009, he played in Germany and Finland for TS Goeppingen (Germany-Regionalliga): 8 games: 15.5ppg, in Dec.'08 moved to Porvoon Tarmo (Finland-Korisliiga, starting five): 27 games: 14.7ppg, 3.5rpg, 2.5apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 48.3%, 3PT: 39.6%, FT: 64.2%. He Help lead TS Goeppingen to Final Four of the Regionalliga Cup in 2008, led the Regionalliga (South-West) in free-throw percentage 2008,ranked top 5 in scoring in Regionalliga (South-West) 2008, scored a career high 44 points in German BBW Cup Championship 2008, set a career high in assists with 13 against Rastatt 2008, was German BBW Cup Champion 2008, German BBW Cup Final Four MVP 2008 and a Regionalliga All-Star in 2008. He played for Team Amsterdam (Eurobasket Summer League in Chicago). His last team was Moncton Miracles (Canada-NBL) where he played 19 games averaging 9.3ppg, 1.6rpg, 3.9apg, FGP: 40.9%, 3PT: 31.6%, FT: 82.9% He spoke to eurobasket about his future.

Hi Vic thanks for talking to eurobasket.com. Where are you currently and what have you been up to this summer?

Right now Im in Louisiana moved here a few months ago. I wanted to get away from a lot of things and just focus on basketball and improve my game. So I dedicated this summer to training and improving all aspects of my game. Othe rthan that, I have been watching the nBA Summer League games, USA games and enjoying my family.

After playing two seasons in the German Regionaliga, you played last season for Moncton Miracles (Canada-NBL). What kind of experience was this for you?

Playing in Moncton was a very good experience. I was able to play against good competition everyday in practice and in games. I also had the opportunity to learn from a former NBA Head Coach ( Mike Evans) he really helped me take my game to another level as a point guard. I developed some good relationships with my teammates and the fans in Moncton as well.

Did you need some adjusting to this level after playing in the lower German league?

The level of play in the NBL Canada is very high, because there are so many American players on each team. The league had former NBA, All-Americans, High Level European players, it was a very competitive league. I would say I adjusted to the level of play pretty well.

How happy were you with your own performance playing 19 games averaging 9.3ppg, 1.6rpg, 3.9apg, FGP: 40.9%, 3PT: 31.6%, FT: 82.9%

I think I played pretty well while I was in Moncton. My role was a lot different there than other places I have played. My job was to run the team and set my teammates up. Be more of a facilitator than a scoring guard. Coach Evans helped me with this transition a lot. I must say I am a much better shooter from the 3 then that 31% shows though. lol

What memories do you have from your 23 point, 8 assist game against Summerside?

That Summerside game ..I remember us going into that game saying we needed a win. We had lost a few close games and all of the players just went into that game with the mind set that we were going to win that game. It was a good overall game for us. We had 4 or 5 players in double figures. We played good defense and I did a good job of finding my teammates and scoring when needed.

What will you in general never forget from your season in Canada?

I'll never forget my teammates ( we had some great guys on that team), the fans of Moncton, and most of all the opportunity I was giving to play. I was away from the game for awhile for many issues and I miss the game so much. Its a blessing to be able to play basketball for a living!

You have interest from PRO A and PRO B teams in Germany. How ready are you to play at this higher level after playing at Goppingen (Regionaliga)

I'm ready! I'm more than ready for the opportunity if it presents itself. I believe I have gained valuable knowledge and experience from each level I have played at. Whether it was Regionaliga, Finland's Top League or Canada. Plus all the hard work I have put in this summer. I mean I have really worked hard! I lost about 20 pounds, I have become quicker, faster, more explosive. This is the best I've felt in a long time!

Why should a German team be interested in your services. What is your most vital attribute that would help any team?

I would say my versatility. I can do so many things for a team. Whether it be scoring, creating for my teammates, defending, being a leader and a good teammate. I work on all aspects of my game so I won't have any weaknesses. I believe a player who can adjust to any situation is very valuable. Thats the player I continue to work to be. Thats the player I believe I am. I can play several roles on a team.

How does a summer work out day look like for VIC Morris?

Well it depends on the day Monday, Wednesday and Friday I normally do skill workout in the gym in the morning around 8. This is when I work on ball handling, shooting, pick and roll drills, passing etc After that I break and come back around 3 in the afternoon and do some cardio on treadmill, bike, elliptical, after cardio work, I lift weights for about a hour or hour and half, then I usually play a few games of pick up with the local college players.
Tuesday and Thursday are Conditioning and Skill work days. I usually go to the track in the morning and run 2 x 800m, 2x 200m, and 2x 100m. I do two sets of this. (Got this workout from my days at CSU) after that I do a few plyometric drills on the track. Later on that night I go to the gym and its another skill session. Saturday I may play a few pick up games but the weekend I usually try and spend with my family.

Describe Vic Morris in one sentence?

Im hungry, dedicated, humbled, blessed, more focused than I ever been, and Im ready to prove myself at a higher level.

How surprised are you that the basketball career of Omari Westley didnt take off as it should of after strong seasons in Iceland and Germany?

I don't know what exactly happened with Omari or why he isn't playing at a higher level in Europe but what I do know is that he's one of the most talented players I ever played with and he's going to give it his all every single time he steps on the court! I still keep in touch with him from time to time and he's doing fine.

Who would win a game in their respective prime the 1992 or 2012 USA Dream team and why?

1992 Dream Team of course! Not only did they have the greatest player of all time on their team ( Michael Jordan) but you had several others that would be strongly considered as the best of all time at their positions as well. Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, John Stockton, Charles Barkley, Pat Ewing, David Robinson, these are all..All- Time greats! Its hard to beat that. Plus I believe the 92 Dream Team is a lot tougher and more physical than the 2012 team.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Last DVD I watched. "Takers" very good movie!

Lee Jeka Joins Science City Jena - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

PRO A team Science City Jena announced the arrival of Lee Jeka (187-G-83, agency: Limelight Hoops) today who has substanial experience in Germany. Jeka is a 29 year old 187cm guard that has the Austrlian/British citzenship and will be starting his seventh season in Germany. Last season, he had to experience a tough season with the Saar-Pfalz Braves saving themselves from moving down on the last game day winning against Leitershofen. Last season he played 28 games: 14.9ppg, 2.5rpg, Assists-2 (5.2apg), FGP: 39.0%, 3PT: 38.5%, FT: 78.0%. "With Lee Jeka (187-G-83, agency: Limelight Hoops) we have a player that knows exactly what he has to do to win games. He has a lot of individual quality and will be a dangerous duo with Kenny Barker at the small position", stressed Science city Jena head coach Georg Eichler. "

Jeka started his baskeball career in 2001 with the Western Devils where he played until 2004. He then played for the Brisbane Bullets until 2005. In the 2005-2006 season he played for the Weribbee Devils. In 2006, he left down under and played for the Cuxhaven BasCats (Germany-2.Bundesliga) until 2008 teaRring up the league never averaging less than 19,6ppg with the Bascats. In 2007-2008, he played for Lausanne Morges Basket (Switzerland-LNA): 1 game: 6pts, 1ast, 1steal, only pre-season, in Dec.'07 moved to Lusitania Angra Patrimonio Mundial (Portugal-UZO Liga): 13 games: 6.2ppg, 1.8rpg, 3.5apg, 1.0spg, 2FGP: 59.6%, 3PT: 29.4%, FT: 69.2%. In 2008-2009, he returned back to Germany to play for USC Freiburg (Germany-ProB) 27 games: 17.4ppg, 3.7rpg, 4.0apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 46.3%, 3PT: 36.8%, FT: 76.5%. In 2009-2010, he returned back to the : Cuxhaven BasCats (Germany-ProA) 29 games: Score-3 (19.6ppg), 3.4rpg, Assists-2 (5.5apg), 1.6spg, FGP: 50.9%, 3PT: 44.2%, FT: 78.4%. In 2010-2011, he helped the : s Oliver Baskets Wuerzburg (Germany-ProA) reach the Beko BBL playing 30 games: 14.7ppg, 2.9rpg, 4.5apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 45.1%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 65.9%. "I am very excited about the team and am looking forward to being an important part of the team. I played together with Christoph Roquette in Freiburg. He is a good player and guy. I played enough against guys like Kenny Barker, Sanijay Watts and Tim Schwartz. I think that we will ahve a strong team. Science City Jena is a well lead and professional team with a good coach", stated Lee Jeka (187-G-83, agency: Limelight Hoops). Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been Eurobasket.com All-German 2.Bundesliga Bosman Player of the Year -06, Eurobasket.com German 2.Bundesliga All-Bosmans Team -06, Eurobasket.com German 2.Bundesliga North All-Bosmans Team -07, Portuguese League Cup Semifinals -08, Eurobasket.com All-Portuguese League Bosman of the Year -08, Eurobasket.com All-German 2.Bundesliga Pro B All-Bosmans Team -09, Eurobasket.com All-German 2.Bundesliga Pro A Bosman Player of the Year -10, Eurobasket.com All-German 2.Bundesliga Pro A 2nd Team -10, German 2.Bundesliga Pro A Runner-Up -10, 11, Eurobasket.com All-German 2.Bundesliga Pro A 1st Team -11, Eurobasket.com German 2.Bundesliga Pro A All-Imports Team -11.

Source: Science City Jena

Kevin Schaffartzik signs with Uni-Riesen Leipzig - by Moritz Korff

Kevin Schaffartzik (187-G-88, college: Sam Houston St.) has signed a one-year deal with Uni-Riesen Leipzig (2. Bundesliga Pro A). "I am looking forward to the upcoming season, especially playing on the same team with Kai-Uwe Kranz (189-G-79) and Walter Simon (202-F-89, college: Cumberland)", the 23-year-old said.
Schaffartzik averaged 9.1 points for the Gotha Rockets last season and helped the team to win the Pro B championship. Prior to his Gotha stint, the former German junior international spent two years at Odessa Junior College. "Kevin can be a key player for us. He is an outstanding three point shooter. He and Kai-Uwe Kranz will be a challenge for every defense", Leipzig coach Ivan Vojtko stated.

Lee Jeka moves to Jena - by Moritz Korff

Science City Jena (2. Bundesliga Pro A) clinched the signing of Lee Jeka (187-G-83, agency: Limelight Hoops), the team unveiled today. The Australian guard, who holds a British passport, averaged 14.9 points, 5.2 assists and 2.5 rebounds per contest for the Saar-Pfalz Braves last season. Jena will be his be Jeka's fifth team in Germany. He earlier played for Cuxhaven, Freiburg, Wuerzburg and most recently Saar-Pfalz. In 2006 he was named the Eurobasket.com All-2. Bundesliga Bosman Player of the Year and received Eurobasket.com All-Pro A Bosman Player of the Year honors in 2010.

Paderborn Baskets file for bankruptcy - by Moritz Korff

Same procedure as every summer It is something that basketball fans in Germany are used to. Another club has to file for bankruptcy. This time it's Pro A team Paderborn Baskets. This is what the team published on its website: "The Paderborn Baskets Team GmbH will file for bankruptcy on Monday. The numbers and explanations of the situation which have been given today in the course of the shareholders' meeting were leading to this decision. The Paderborn Baskets 91 e.V. will determine in the next week if Paderborn will remain a location of professional sports."
Thus, another awkward situation for basketball in Germany. A team that used to play in the BBL two years ago now stands on the verge of collapsing.
The question is not: Will somebody be next? But: Who will be next? This year or next year. And the loser is...German basketball.

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GIBRALTAR

U16 European Championship: Principality of Monaco advanced to the Final - by Eurobasket News

Principality of Monaco U16-Gibraltar U16 78:37

Principality of Monaco advanced to the Final at the U16 European Championship in Division C. The team won over Gibraltar 78:37 in the Semifinal game. In the Final game Scotland will face Monaco, while San Marino will take on the hosts.
Principality of Monaco opened the game with a 21-0 run and Pierrick Motillon (177-PG-97) closed the period at 26:3. Daniel Pieper (185-F-96) nailed three in the start of the second frame for 37:9 and Clement Marechal (180-G-96) added 5 more in a row for 44:11. Principality of Monaco dominated the court and proved their ambitions for the top places. They added 15-11 in the third quarter and finished the game with 19-15 in the last stanza.
Alessandro Generale (185-C-96) top-scored for the winners with 20 points and 11 rebounds, while Pierrick Motillon nailed 17. Daniel Pieper scored 12 and Clement Marechal added 9. Jake Haefner (185-G/F-97) collected 8 points and 11 rebounds in defeat and Lee Perez (171-F-97) notched 7.

Principality of Monaco U16: Alessandro Generale 20+11 rebs, Pierrick Motillon 17, Daniel Pieper 12, Clement Marechal 9
Gibraltar U16: Jake Haefner 8+11 rebs, Lee Perez 7

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GREECE

U16 European Championship: Greece drub Latvia - by Eurobasket News

Greece U16 - Latvia U16 63:46

Greece finished their U16 European Championship campaign on a high note. They bettered Latvia to clinch the 9th position. Dimitrios Stamatis (192-G-96) stepped up with 15 points to lead the Hellenes.
Greece started strongly. They accounted for a 16:11 lead at the first break. Greece stretched the lead at the second quarter. They established a 37:21 halftime buffer. Latvia slowed their opponents a bit in the third term. Latvia cut the deficit at 14-point mark with one quarter remaining. Greece held the Baltic team to 11 points in the final period and sealed a comfortable win at the end. Konstantinos Zorzos (188-PG-96) notched 13 points, while Nikolaos Andreadis (200-PF-96) netted 6 points for the winners. Rudolfs Stradnieks (202-C-96) answered with 14 points for Latvia. Davis Zonne (183-PG-96) netted 12 points in the loss.

Greece U16: Dimitrios Stamatis 15, Konstantinos Zorzos 13, Nikolaos Andreadis 6
Latvia U16: Rudolfs Stradnieks 14, Davis Zonne 12

Serbia U18 wins the second straight game in Novi Sad - by Eurobasket News

Serbia U18-Greece U18 83:58

Serbia wins the second straight game in Novi Sad at the home tournament with 4 participating teams. The hosts overcame Greece U18 83:58 in Day 2.
Serbia started the game with 26:10 lead and added 20-13 in the second frame. The hosts dominated the court and did not allow the opponents to change the picture of the game in the second half. Serbia won the third quarter 19-17 and then both sides nailed 18 points each in the last period.
Nikola Radicevic (194-G-94) led the way with 15 points and Dusan Kutlesic (195-G-94) netted 11. Mulutinov poured in 10, while Milos Jankovic (200-C/F-94) chipped in with 9. Dimitrios Agravanis (208-F-94, agency: FCM) ended up with 16 points in the losing effort, whilst Konstantinos Gontikas (204-SF-94) scored 9. Slafsakis finished the game with 7 and Angelou as well as Alexandros Mitsialos (201-F-94) had 5 each.
In another game Turkey U18 overcame Ukraine U18 67:62.

Serbia U18: Nikola Radicevic 15, Dusan Kutlesic 11, Mulutinov 10, Milos Jankovic 9
Greece U18: Dimitrios Agravanis 16, Konstantinos Gontikas 9, Slafsakis 7, Angelou 5, Alexandros Mitsialos 5

Panionios close to signing Nikos Pappas and Angelos Tsamis - by Dimitris Katsionis

According to Greek media Panionios BC is close to signing two important Greek perimeter players the next days, Nikos Pappas (194-G-90, agency: FCM) () and Angelos Tsamis (192-G-81). Pappas is one of the main representatives of the 1990-born, golden generation for Greek basketball. He is a very smart and athletic combo guard with great wingspan. His best attribute is the ability to gain penetration. He excels at attacking to the basket.Pappas finished the season with PAOK Thessaloniki averaging 10.6 PPG (53% FG)-2.2 RPG-1.5 APG-1.4 SPG. At the other hand, Tsamis is a totally different story. He is the perfect example of the player who worked hard and was recognized late in his career. He is playing for Kolossos Rhodes the last 4 years and made great progress. He is considered as one of the most dynamic and physical wing players in the Greek league and a prolific all around guard. It is remarkable that last summer was very close to Panionios but the two sides didn't manage to finalize the deal. Last year Tsamis was an A1-MVP candidate (11.3 PPG-4.6 RPG-2.6 APG), having a "break-out" season.

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HOLLAND

Holland knocked down Cyprus - by Fred Roggen

The friendly game between Holland and Cyprus was played last night, the first preparation game for the European Championship 2013 qualifying games.
The Dutch squad celebrated easy 77-55 home victory. The game was mostly controlled by the Dutch squad, they dominated on the defensive end, holding the Cypriot team to just
22 points at half time (40-22). Holland dominated down low during the game, they outrebounded Cyprus 44-28. Holland maintained the lead throughout the third term 63-36.
After 14-19 in the last stanza the board showed a 22-point Dutch victory. Henk Norel (212-F/C-87) scored 18 points and 7 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and
Ties Theeuwkens (190-G-85, agency: Court Side) chipped in 14 points while Worthy de Jong (194-SG-88, agency: R.H.Consultancy) added 11 points and grabbed 9 rebounds.

U16 European Championship: Netherlands won over the Nordic side - by Eurobasket News

Netherlands U16-Finland U16 76:59

Netherlands won over the Nordic side at the U16 European Championship in Division B. The Dutch side grabbed a 76:59 win at the Classification Round for 9th to 12th Place. Tomorrow Netherlands will play against Belarus in the game for the 9-10 places. Finland meanwhile will take on Georgia in the game for the 11-12 places.
Finland started the game better and reached 18-9 lead after the first 10 minutes of the game. Another three quarters however belonged to Netherlands. The latter won the second frame 21-13 and then added 20-16 in the third period. Moreover the Dutch team 26-12 in the last stanza to seal the victory.
Lennart Overdevest (184-SG-96), Yannick Franke (185-G-96) and Robert Boezeman (198-PF-96) combined for 52 points for the winners. Aapeli Alanen (197-F-96) answered with 18 points and 11 rebounds, while Henri Niemisto (194-G-96) added 13. Tuomas Hirvonen (175-G-96) and Joonas Tahvanainen (198-F-96) chipped in with 6 points each in a loss.

Netherlands U16: Lennart Overdevest 18, Yannick Franke 17, Robert Boezeman 17
Finland U16: Aapeli Alanen 18+11 rebs, Henri Niemisto 13, Tuomas Hirvonen 6, Joonas Tahvanainen 6

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HUNGARY

ICELAND

Pall Axel moves to Skallagrimur - by Snorri Arnaldsson

The captain of U.M.F. Grindavik, Pall Axel Vilbergsson (197-F/G-78) has decided to move from U.M.F. Grindavik to U.M.F. Skallagrimur Borganes for the upcoming season. Pall Axel Vilbergsson has been the captain for U.M.F. Grindavik and won the Icelandic championship this past season with the team. He came off the bench as the 6th man for U.M.F. Grindavik and vas a valuable member of the team.

U.M.F. Skallagrimur Borganes won promotion from the 1st division this past season and will be looking to stay in the Dominos league and adding the former national team player Pall Axel Vilbergsson should help them in that regard. This coming season will be U.M.F. Skallagrimur Borganes first in the top division since the 2008-2009 season, when they were relegated while only winning 2 games.

U.M.F. Grindavik has gone through some changes after winning the championship, as Giordan Watson (178-G-85, college: Cent.Michigan) and J'Nathan Bullock (196-F-87, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Cleveland St.) already left the team, Helgi Jonas Gudfinnsson resigned as coach and Ryan Pettinella (206-F/C-84, college: Cincinnati) is not expected to return. They have yet to sign their imports for the coming season.

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ISRAEL

U16 European Championship: Israel outscore Portugal in Bucharest - by Eurobasket News

Israel U16-Portugal U16 73:64

Israel outscore Portugal in Bucharest at the U16 European Championship in Division B. The Israel team opened Classification Games for 5th to 8th Place with a 73:64 win and will play for the 5th place tomorrow. Portugal meanwhile will face F.Y.R. of Macedonia in the game for 7-8 places.
Israel came up with 22-9 in the first period, while Portugal produced a 19-12 surge in the second frame. Tamir Blatt (178-PG-97) nailed three to close the half at 34:28 for Israel. Araujo reduced to minimum 40:39, but Portugal could not come closer. Netanel Artzi (196-F-97) and Paz closed the third frame at 48:43 and Roi Huber (184-G-97) scored for 54:43. Israel added 25-21 in the last stanza to seal the victory.
Tamir Blatt stepped up with 24 points for the winners and Yevgeni Holodov (178-PG-96) nailed 22. Netanel Artzi collected 10 points and 10 rebounds, while Roi Huber added 6. Francisco Amiel (186-PG-96) poured in 15 points in defeat, while Benvindo Mendes (200-C-96) scored 11.

Israel U16: Tamir Blatt 24, Yevgeni Holodov 22, Netanel Artzi 10+10 rebs, Roi Huber 6
Portugal U16: Francisco Amiel 15, Benvindo Mendes 11

Maccabi Tel-Aviv land David Logan - by Eurobasket News

Maccabi Tel-Aviv bolstered their backcourt. They agreed on terms of contract with David Logan (184-G-82, college: Indianapolis). The guard inked a two-year deal with the Israeli powerhouse. David Logan spent the previous season with Panathinaikos. He tallied 6.9 points, 1.1 assists and 1.1 steals per game in Euroleague. In A1 League the guard notched 9.0 points, 1.3 rebounds, 1.3 assists and 1.3 steals per appearance. Previously David Logan had stints with Caja Laboral, Asseco Prokom, PGE Turow, Polpharma, Fort Wayne Flyers and Edimes Pavia. Eurobasket.com named David Logan All-Polish League Player of the Year in 2009 and 2010. The guard participated at PLK All-Star Game in 2009, 2010 and 2011. David Logan was the member of Polish National Team in 2009.

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ITALY

Cremona ink Jarrius Jackson - by Giovanni Bargna

Vanoli-Braga Cremona announce Jarrius Jackson (188-G-85, college: Texas Tech). The shooting guard, out of Texas Tech university, was one of the best in his position in the Big 12 conference in the NCAA. Jackson was coached by Bobby Knight at the Red Raiders and averaged 16.7 points per game, 3.3 rebounds and 2.7 assists in his 4 year college career.
He flew to Europe in 2007 joining La Palma, Spain, then moved to Ukraine before joining Casale in the italian LegaDue. At his first italian season he scored 16 points per game.
He spent last two seasons with Veroli averaging 19.4 ppg in the first season and 14.1 in the second.

U16 European Championship: France stop Italy to reach Final - by Eurobasket News

France U16 - Italy U16 80:71

France will play in the title game at U16 European Championship in Latvia and Lithuania. They held off previously undefeated Italy in Vilnius tonight. Antoine Wallez (202-PF-96) came up with 20 points to lead the charge. France will now take on Turkey for the trophy.
France jumped ahead early in the game. They recorded a 21:16 lead at the first break. Italy however adjusted offensively scoring 24 points in the second term. They got within a single point at halftime 40:41. Italy pulled ahead in the third frame. The Azzurri arrived at the final break up by two points 63:61. However France opened the fourth quarter on an 11:0 run to regain the advantage. Italy never came back to life as France cruised to the victory at the end. Lenny Charles-Catherine (194-G-96) accounted for 16 points, while Salem Mana (189-G-96) and Cyrille Eliezer-Vanerot (194-F-96) had 8 points each in the win. Federico Mussini (179-PG-96) responded with 22 points for Italy. Daniel Donzelli (199-SG-96) provided 20 points and 11 rebounds in the loss.

France U16: Antoine Wallez 20, Lenny Charles-Catherine 16, Salem Mana 8, Cyrille Eliezer-Vanerot 8
Italy U16: Federico Mussini 22, Daniel Donzelli 20+11 boards

Laurence Ekperigin signs with Ferentino - by Eurobasket News

Laurence Ekperigin (201-F-88, college: Le Moyne) signs with Ferentino for the upcoming season. The British National Team player moves to Italy.
Last year Laurence Ekperigin played in Spain. The forward has agreed on terms of contract with Gran Canaria 2014. In 2011-2012 for C.B. Gran Canaria 2014 (Spain-ACB) he averaged 3.5ppg, 3.0rpg in EuroCup and Spanish League had 1.9ppg, 1.8rpg.
Laurence Ekperigin started the earlier season in South Korea. The US-British player tallied 14.3 points, 7.9 rebounds, 1.4 assists and 1.3 blocks per game for Mobis Phoebus. He participated at the KBL All-Star Game. The forward moved to Angelico Biella in Italy in April. Laurence Ekperigin appeared in three games for Biella tallying 3.7 points and 3.7 rebounds. It was the first pro season for the forward. He graduated from La Moyne in 2010. Laurence Ekperigin was named NABC Division II All-Star Game MVP. He also made it into NABC Division II All-America Team. Laurence Ekperigin is the member of British National Team.

Tezenis Verona sign Richard McConnell - by Eurobasket News

Tezenis Verona ensured the roster strengthening. They inked contract with Richard McConnell (182-G-89, agency: Priority Sports, college: St.Mary's, CA). The guard started his pro career last season. He joined Fileni Jesi in LegaDue. Richard McConnell averaged 17.6 points, 3.4 assists, 2.9 rebounds and 2.1 steals per game in LegaDue. The guard earned Eurobasket.com All-Italian LegaDue Honourable Mention. Richard McConnell graduated from St. Marys in 2011. His stats read 16.4 points, 6.1 assists, 2.5 boards per game in the senior season. The guard was named into NABC Division I All-District 9 1st Team. He was also trumped All-WCC Player of the Year.

Prima Veroli announce Erving Walker - by Eurobasket News

Prima Veroli announced the new signing. They agreed on terms of contract with Erving Walker (172-PG-90). The guard will start his pro career in Italy. Erving Walker has just graduated from the University of Florida. He averaged 12.1 points, 4.6 assists, 2.9 rebounds and 1.0 steal per game in his senior season. Erving Walker played in NCAA Elite Eight for the second season in a row with Florida. He made it into All-SEC 2^nd Team for the third year in a row. The guard was named into NABC Division I All-District 21 2^nd Team in 2011. Erving Walker also participated at Portsmouth Invitational Pre-NBA Draft Tournament this summer. He notched 9.0 points, 7.0 assists, 3.3 boards and 1.0 steal per appearance.

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LATVIA

Latvia U18 beat Estonian counterparts in Parnu - by Eurobasket News

Estonia U18 - Latvia U18 41:58

Latvian and Estonian U18 National Teams continued their preparations for the upcoming European Championship. They played a friendly game in Parnu. The visitors proved the strength claiming a 17-point victory at the end. Ilja Gromovs (207-C/F-94) came up with 12 points to lead the winners.
Latvia jumped to a 15:9 lead at the first break. They stretched the gap at 13-point mark at halftime 29:16. Latvia stayed dominant in the third quarter. They boosted the gap to 18 points at the final intermission. Estonia narrowed the gap in the fourth quarter but could not avoid the loss at the end. Elvis Endzels (180-G-94) netted 8 points, while Edgars Stelmahers (185-G-94) finished with 7 points for the winners. Martin Jurtom (198-F-94) answered with 14 points for Estonia. Rain Koort (194-G/F-95) had 6 points in the loss.

Estonia U18: Martin Jurtom 14, Rain Koort 6
Latvia U18: Ilja Gromovs 12, Elvis Endzels 8, Edgars Stelmahers 7

U16 European Championship: Greece drub Latvia - by Eurobasket News

Greece U16 - Latvia U16 63:46

Greece finished their U16 European Championship campaign on a high note. They bettered Latvia to clinch the 9th position. Dimitrios Stamatis (192-G-96) stepped up with 15 points to lead the Hellenes.
Greece started strongly. They accounted for a 16:11 lead at the first break. Greece stretched the lead at the second quarter. They established a 37:21 halftime buffer. Latvia slowed their opponents a bit in the third term. Latvia cut the deficit at 14-point mark with one quarter remaining. Greece held the Baltic team to 11 points in the final period and sealed a comfortable win at the end. Konstantinos Zorzos (188-PG-96) notched 13 points, while Nikolaos Andreadis (200-PF-96) netted 6 points for the winners. Rudolfs Stradnieks (202-C-96) answered with 14 points for Latvia. Davis Zonne (183-PG-96) netted 12 points in the loss.

Greece U16: Dimitrios Stamatis 15, Konstantinos Zorzos 13, Nikolaos Andreadis 6
Latvia U16: Rudolfs Stradnieks 14, Davis Zonne 12

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LITHUANIA

MONACO

MONTENEGRO

U16 European Championship: Montenegro clinch promotion - by Eurobasket News

Sweden U16-Montenegro U16 66:71

Montenegro clinch promotion at the U16 European Championship Division B. The team will play in Division A next year as they won the Semifinal game over Sweden 71:66. The Scandinavian team will have another chance to advance tomorrow in the game for the third place.
Sweden grabbed 18-12 lead after the first 10 minutes and had 5-point advantage at the halftime. It was not however enough as Montenegro dominated the rest of the game. They won the third period 22-14 and closed the game with 24-22 in the last stanza.
Petar Popovic (188-PG-96) top-scored for the winners with 21 points and Zoran Nikolic (202-C-96) as well as Aleksandar Dozic (199-F-96) had 11 each. Milos Andelic (171-PG-96) and Aleksandar Novosel (185-PG-96) delivered 10 points each in a win. Andreas Von Uthmann (196-F-96) and Ludvig Hakanson (190-PG-96) finished the game with 19 points each in defeat.

Sweden U16: Andreas Von Uthmann 19, Ludvig Hakanson 19
Montenegro U16: Petar Popovic 21, Zoran Nikolic 11, Aleksandar Dozic 11, Milos Andelic 10, Aleksandar Novosel 10

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NBA

Standings

NBA Standings

Eastern Conference
Atlantic Div.
1. Boston C.		0-0
2. Brooklyn N.		0-0
3. New York K.		0-0
4. Philadelph.76		0-0
5. Toronto R.		0-0
Central Div.
1. Chicago B.		0-0
2. Cleveland C.		0-0
3. Detroit P.		0-0
4. Indiana P.		0-0
5. Milwaukee B.		0-0
Southeast Div.
1. Atlanta H.		0-0
2. Charlotte B.		0-0
3. Miami Heat		0-0
4. Orlando M.		0-0
5. Washington W.		0-0
Western Conference
Northwest Div.
1. Denver N.		0-0
2. Minnesota T.		0-0
3. Oklah.City T.		0-0
4. Portland TB		0-0
5. Utah Jazz		0-0
Pacific Div.
1. Golden St.W.		0-0
2. LA Clippers		0-0
3. LA Lakers		0-0
4. Phoenix Suns		0-0
5. Sacramento K.		0-0
Southwest Div.
1. Dallas M.		0-0
2. Houston R.		0-0
3. Memphis G.		0-0
4. N.Orleans H.		0-0
5. San Antonio S.		0-0

Regular Season: Round 1

Oct. 30: Cleveland C. - Washington W.
Oct. 30: Miami Heat - Boston C.
Oct. 30: LA Lakers - Dallas M.

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

NIGERIA

Hoopers rule Nigeria - again. - by Iwedi Ojinmah

At the end it was not even close and the nail bitter we all expected failed to occur.

Hoopers defeated their bitter rivals, Kano Pillars 65-52 in the final of the 2011/2012 Dstv Basketball Premier League Final 8 play-offs on Saturday at the Indoor Sports Hall, National Stadium, Lagos.

The Port Harcourt-based side claimed victories in all the quarters against the Pyramid City side.

As we know Pillars had beaten Hoopers 54-53 in one of the most fiercely contested games of the preliminary round when a proper basket was denied at the very end. This seemed to have awoken the Garden City team that came out on fire and never looked back.

Both sides will hoist the nation's flag at the continent next year.

An elated Hoopers' small forward, Faruk Oyelade announced that he knew they will be champions after they knocked out tournament favourites, Dodan Warriors in the semifinals.

"Of course, I saw it coming, I believe in my teammates that we'll be champions.

"This is my happiest moment, I'm happy we came back to beat them in the final and it makes it the sweetest," he said.

Meanwhile a muted but proud Pillars' caretaker coach, Ibrahim Maku said he is fulfilled picking a continental ticket.

"I feel good picking the continental ticket though my mission was to pick the trophy.

"Basketball is all about winning some, losing some.

"We beat them in the preliminary, now they've beaten us in the final.

Never have better words been uttered.

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

PHILIPPINES

PBA Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Zach GRAHAM
  Air21 E.
  (198-G-89)
  Avg: 37.6

1. Graham, Air21 E.	37.6
2. West, Meralco	30.1
3. Sneed, Powerade T.	25.9
4. David, Powerade T.	24.8
5. Harris, Talk N Text	24.0
6. Blakely, B-Meg L.	23.5
7. Cornley, Rain o.	22.9
8. Bozeman, Ginebra	22.0
9. Basden, Petron B.	19.6
10. Caguioa, Ginebra	17.9

Rebounds Per Game

Omar SNEED
  Powerade T.
  (198-F-76)
  Avg: 16.6

1. Sneed, Powerade T.	16.6
2. Blakely, B-Meg L.	12.8
3. Graham, Air21 E.	12.6
4. Harris, Talk N Text	12.5
5. Bozeman, Ginebra	11.3
6. Cornley, Rain o.	11.0
7. Taulava, Meralco	10.1
8. Pingris, B-Meg L.	9.0
9. Santos, Petron B.	8.6
10. Basden, Petron B.	8.3

Assists Per Game

Jimmy ALAPAG
  Talk N Text
  (177-PG-77)
  Avg: 6.5

1. Alapag, Talk N Te.	6.5
2. Casio, Powerade T.	6.1
3. Sneed, Powerade T.	5.4
4. Tenorio, Alaska A.	5.2
5. Cabagnot, Petron	4.9
6. Miller, Barako Bull	4.8
7. Ross, Meralco	4.5
8. Bozeman, Ginebra	4.4
9. Basden, Petron B.	4.0
10. Graham, Air21 E.	3.8

Steals Per Game

Marqus BLAKELY
  B-Meg L.
  (196-F-89)
  Avg: 3

1. Blakely, B-Meg L.	3.0
2. West, Meralco	2.5
3. Basden, Petron B.	2.4
4. Sneed, Powerade T.	1.6
5. Tenorio, Alaska A.	1.6
6. Ross, Meralco	1.3
7. Bozeman, Ginebra	1.2
8. Anthony, Powerade.	1.1
9. Graham, Air21 E.	1.1
10. Mercado, Meralco	1.1

Blocks Per Game

Marqus BLAKELY
  B-Meg L.
  (196-F-89)
  Avg: 2.9

1. Blakely, B-Meg L.	2.9
2. Baguio, Alaska Ac.	1.4
3. Santos, Petron B.	1.3
4. Aguilar, Talk N.	1.2
5. West, Meralco	1.1
6. Thoss, Alaska Aces	1.1
7. Harris, Talk N Text	1.0
8. Maierhofer, Ginebr.	0.9
9. Norwood, Rain o.	0.8
10. Taulava, Meralco	0.7

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

POLAND

Maciej Kucharek signs with Start Gdynia - by Eurobasket News

Maciej Kucharek (204-SF-93) signs with Start Gdynia for the upcoming season. The 1993 year born Polish player moves to his new team.
In 2009-2010 he started for Tempcold AZS Politechnika Warszawa (1Liga) and averaged 2.0ppg. He also played at Polonia 2011 Warszawa U20 team. In 2010-2011 played for Polonia 2011 Warszawa (1Liga, starting five) and after 28 games showed 3.9ppg, 2.0rpg.
In 2011-2012 moved to AZS Politechnika Warszawa (PLK) and had 5.8ppg, 1.2rpg, FGP: 41.2%, 3PT: 44.4%, FT: 76.9%. Maciej Kucharek played also for AZS II Politechnika Warszawska (2Liga) as his stats read 18.0ppg, 5.7rpg, 1.1apg, 2.9spg, 1.4bpg, FGP: 45.5%, 3PT: 33.8%, FT: 80.0%.
In 2009 he was a Polish U16 National Team member and in 2012 the Polish U20 Championships Winner. Later in 2011 Maciej Kucharek became Polish U18 National Team and Polish U19 National Team member. Thus year he started for Poland U20 and participated at the European Championships U20 Division B in Sofia (Bulgaria). In 3 games his stats read 3.3ppg, 2.0rpg.

U16 European Championship: Poland prevail against Croatia - by Eurobasket News

Poland U16 - Croatia U16 82:76

Poland celebrated victory in the classification round for 5th-8th place at U16 European Championship. They knocked down Croatia tonight. Marek Zywert (185-SG-96) stepped up with 17 points and 6 assists for the winners.
Croatia jumped to an early lead. The former champions built a 19:15 advantage ten minutes into the game. Poland bounced back in the second quarter. They erased the deficit and posted a 35:33 halftime advantage. Croatia spurred back in front in the third quarter. They ensured a 53:48 lead with ten minutes remaining. Poland used a 10:0 run midway through the final term to take a 62:60 lead. The margin grew at 9-point mark soon. Poland did not loosen the grip and marched to the victory at the end. Grzegorz Kulka (192-PF-96) and Kamil Zywert (188-PG-96) accounted for 14 points each for the winners. Luka Bozic (188-PG-96) answered with 17 points for Croatia. Marko Arapovic (207-C/F-96) had 16 points in the loss.

Poland U16: Marek Zywert 17, Grzegorz Kulka 14, Kamil Zywert 14
Croatia U16: Luka Bozic 17, Marko Arapovic 16

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

PORTUGAL

ROMANIA

RUSSIA

U16 European Championship: Russia hold off Czech Republic to ensure Division A birth for next year - by Eurobasket News

Russia U16 - Czech Republic U16 69:67

Russia clinched the fifth straight win in the classification round Group G at U16 European Championship today. They defeated Czech Republic to clinch the top position in the ladder. Russia thus stayed in Division A for the next year. Czech Republic fell at 2-3 record and would not avoid relegation. Ilya Karpenkov (200-C-97) led the winners with 18 points and 9 rebounds.
Russia enjoyed an 18:14 lead after ten minutes. They stretched the lead in the second quarter. Russia posted a 40:30 halftime lead. Czech Republic however managed to narrow the gap at 6-point mark at the final intermission. Skranc put Czech Republic within one 61:62 midway through the final frame. Czech Republic then grabbed a 67:64 lead but Ilya Karpenkov and Aleksandr Zuev (193-PG-96) capped regulation with five straight points to seal the victory for Russia. Pavel Afanasev (194-SG-96) accounted for 11 points, while Aleksandr Zuev and Mikhail Maleyko (203-PF-96) delivered 10 points each in the win. Matej Svoboda (200-PF-96) answered with 14 points for Czech Republic. Marek Mares (185-G-96) netted 10 points in the loss.

Russia U16: Ilya Karpenkov 18, Pavel Afanasev 11, Aleksandr Zuev 10, Mikhail Maleyko 10
Czech Republic U16: Matej Svoboda 14, Marek Mares 10

Kazan hope to struck deal for Mensah-Bonsu - by Anton Zirkov

Unics Kazan are hoping to struck a deal with British forward Pops Mensah-Bonsu (206-F-83, agency: SportsTalent, college: G.Washington) this week.
The Tatarstans are very interested adding Mensah-Bonsu through all the summer and in the last week there was a major progress in the negotiations and the Kazan chiefs are confident that the Brit will be in Green this week.
Mensah-Bonsu is a wanted man this summer as teams from Spain and Turkey were very interested in his services,but now it seems that Unics are in pole position to land their man.
A Kazan source told Eurobasket that they hope that Bonsu will be a member of the team next week:"Bonsu is a player we are very interested in adding to the squad,he brings toughness and Energy to the game,and this is what we are looking for.we are in talks with him and the two parties are close in matter of terms".
Bonsu who won the Treble last season with Besiktas (Turkish champs,Turkish cup and Eurochallenge cup) has avereged 12.8ppg and 7.8rpg in Turkish league and 18.5ppg and 11.8rpg in Eurochallenge cup.in Europe he had stints at CSKA Moscow,Badalona,Benetton Treviso and ASVEL.in the NBA he played for the Mavricks,Hornets and the Raptors.

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

SAN MARINO

U16 European Championship: Scotland demolish San Marino - by Eurobasket News

Scotland U16-San Marino U16 72:32

Scotland advanced to the Final of the U16 European Championship in Division C. The Scottish team did not have any problems beating San Marino 72:32 in Gibraltar. In the Final game Scotland will face Monaco, while San Marino will take on the hosts.
Scotland started the game on a high note and won the first period 20:11. They scored the same number of points in the second quarter and allowed the opponents to finish with 5. Rian Neill (188-PF-96) closed the half at 40:16 and Fraser Malcolm (186-SF-96) later scored four in a row for 44:19 advantage. Mareth Kuriakosem and Giannotti exchanged the late baskets in the third period for 57:26 on the board. Scotland managed to add 15-6 in the last stanza for the final success.
Fraser Malcolm top-scored for the winners with 13 points and Rian Neill netted 12. Fraser Malcolm Winning (186-SG-96) poured in 11, while Gregor Gray (193-G/F-96) added 9. Igor Biordi (200-C-96) finished the game with 12 points and Andrea Gambi (190-C-96) scored 10 in defeat.

Scotland U16: Fraser Malcolm 13, Rian Neill 12, Fraser Malcolm Winning 11, Gregor Gray 9
San Marino U16: Igor Biordi 12, Andrea Gambi 10

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

SCOTLAND

SERBIA

Mark Worthington signs with Radnicki - by Eurobasket News

Radnicki have bolstered their frontcourt. They landed Mark Worthington (202-PF-83, college: Metro St.). The Australian power forward spent the last season back on home soil. He played for the Gold Coast Blaze in NBL. The forward averaged 14.4 points, 6.3 boards, 1.7 assists per game. Previously Mark Worthington had stints with Quebradillas, Mets de Guaynabo, Bamberg, Melbourne Tigers, Sydney Kings and Bunbury Slammers. Mark Worthington was named Australian NBL Rookie of the Year in 2006. He made it into All-Australian NBL 2nd Team in 2010, 2011 and 2012. The forward has been the member of Australian National Team since 2006. He participated at 2010 World Championship. His stats read 4.2 points, 2.5 boards and 1.2 assists per game in Turkey.

U16 European Championship: Okben Ulubay steps up as Turkey see off Serbia - by Eurobasket News

Turkey U16 - Serbia U16 67:62

Okben Ulubay (200-F-97) scored 12 points in the decisive fourth quarter to lead Turkey past Serbia in the semifinal battle at U16 European Championship in Vilnius tonight. He finished with 17 points and 9 rebounds to secure the place in the title game for Turkey. Ogulcan Baykan (195-SG-96) topscored with 18 points for Turkey.
Serbia led by as many as 6 points ten minutes into the game 22:16. They stretched the lead to 11 points midway through the second quarter. Turkey managed to get within 7 at halftime 29:36. But Turkey limited their opponents to just 6 points in the third term to take a 44:42 lead at the final intermission. Ivan Daskalovic (199-SG-96) put Serbia back in charge midway through the fourth frame but Okben Ulubay, Gecim and Ogulcan Baykan made it 61:56 for Turkey. Ivan Daskalovic put Serbia within a single point twice but Okben Ulubay and Ogulcan Baykan converted four free throws late in regulation to seal the win for Turkey. Mert Cevik (198-G/F-96) and Akif Guven (206-C-96) had 8 points each for the winners. Ivan Daskalovic answered with 18 points for Serbia. Vasilije Vucetic (206-PF-96) had 16 points in the loss.

Turkey U16: Ogulcan Baykan 18, Okben Ulubay 17, Mert Cevik 8, Akif Guven 8
Serbia U16: Ivan Daskalovic 18, Vasilije Vucetic 16

Serbia roll over Ukraine in Belgrade - by Eurobasket News

Serbia -Ukraine 84:65

Serbia roll over Ukraine in Belgrade in a friendly campaign between two sides. The hosts won the first game 84:65 as they produced narrow victories in all four quarters.
Serbia grabbed a 29:24 lead at the end of the first period and continued their dominance throughout the game. They added 18-17 in the second quarter for 47:41 halftime advantage. Moreover Serbia erupted with 21-9 in the third frame for 18-point lead after three quarters. The hosts added another 18-15 in the last stanza to seal the victory in the opener.
Nemanja Bjelica (209-F/C-88, agency: Interperformances) stepped up with 13 points and Nemanja Nedovic (192-PG-91, agency: Beo Basket) netted 12. Vladimir Lucic (202-F-89, agency: Beo Basket) and Mile Ilic (215-C-84, agency: Interperformances) followed them with 10 points apiece. Kornienko finished the game with 11 points, while Gleb Glebov (208-C-82), Viacheslav Kravtsov (212-C-87, agency: Beo Basket) and Steven Burtt (185-G-84, college: Iona) nailed 9 each. Gumenuk followed them with 7 pints in a loss.
Tonight the teams will face each other again.

Serbia: Nemanja Bjelica 13, Nemanja Nedovic 12, Vladimir Lucic 10, Mile Ilic 10
Ukraine: Kornienko 11, Gleb Glebov 9, Viacheslav Kravtsov 9, Steven Burtt 9, Gumenuk 7

Serbia U18 wins the second straight game in Novi Sad - by Eurobasket News

Serbia U18-Greece U18 83:58

Serbia wins the second straight game in Novi Sad at the home tournament with 4 participating teams. The hosts overcame Greece U18 83:58 in Day 2.
Serbia started the game with 26:10 lead and added 20-13 in the second frame. The hosts dominated the court and did not allow the opponents to change the picture of the game in the second half. Serbia won the third quarter 19-17 and then both sides nailed 18 points each in the last period.
Nikola Radicevic (194-G-94) led the way with 15 points and Dusan Kutlesic (195-G-94) netted 11. Mulutinov poured in 10, while Milos Jankovic (200-C/F-94) chipped in with 9. Dimitrios Agravanis (208-F-94, agency: FCM) ended up with 16 points in the losing effort, whilst Konstantinos Gontikas (204-SF-94) scored 9. Slafsakis finished the game with 7 and Angelou as well as Alexandros Mitsialos (201-F-94) had 5 each.
In another game Turkey U18 overcame Ukraine U18 67:62.

Serbia U18: Nikola Radicevic 15, Dusan Kutlesic 11, Mulutinov 10, Milos Jankovic 9
Greece U18: Dimitrios Agravanis 16, Konstantinos Gontikas 9, Slafsakis 7, Angelou 5, Alexandros Mitsialos 5

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

SLOVENIA

Kastrati signs multi-year contract with Krka - by Zeljko Zule

Krka and promised Kosovan Erjon Kastrati (197-F/G-94) reached and agreement on a multiyear contract. Kastrati started the 2011-12 season on loan with LTH Skofja Loka and later moved back to Union Olimpija. He averaged 6.6 points and 2.6 rebounds in 17 Telemach League games with Skofja Loka and 3.0 points, 1.3 rebounds and 1.3 assists in 3 Euroleagu games with Union Olimpija. Over 7 Adriatic League games, Kastrati averaged 1.7 points.

U16 European Championship: Slovenia defeat England - by Eurobasket News

Slovenia U16 - England U16 66:64

Slovenia earned victory on the last but one day of action at U16 European Championship. They held off England for 2-3 record in Group G. England fell at 1-4 record after the loss. Matej Kavas (193-G-96) stepped up with 16 points to lead the charge.
England led by four points after ten minutes of action 20:16. They maintained the lead in the second quarter. The English team posted a 35:30 halftime advantage. England extended the lead in the third frame. They secured a 9-point buffer heading into the fourth quarter 52:43. Matej Kavas and Slutej drained three-pointers early in the final frame to set the tone. Slutej and Matej Kavas connected for two more treys as Slovenia earned a 64:60 lead. Domen Janc (185-PG-96) made it 66:62 for Slovenia and they stayed in charge till the final buzzer. Tilen Kodrin (202-SF-96) posted 13 points and 12 rebounds, while Domen Janc added 12 points for Slovenia. Ikponmwosa Oghide (96) responded with 17 points and 9 rebounds for England. Joe Mvuezolo (193-SF-96) chipped in 14 points in the loss.

Slovenia U16: Matej Kavas 16, Tilen Kodrin 13+12 boards, Domen Janc 12
England U16: Ikponmwosa Oghide 17, Joe Mvuezolo 14

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

SPAIN

Melilla inks Jesus Castro to reinforce backcourt - by Natxo Mendaza

After announcing the signing of Francisco Sanchez (201-F-79) a few days ago, Melilla Baloncesto confirmed the rumours and revealed the agreement reached with Jesus Castro (191-G-83), coming from Autocid Burgos. Castro signed a 1-year deal, becoming the tenth signing of the club for the next season. Talking about this addition, head coach Gonzalo Garcia stated: "Castro comes to provide us with the things we needed in our backcourt. After the arrival of Sanchez, a offensive-oriented guy, we needed an all-around player, and Castro fits perfectly in that definition. He got legs to play strong defense, is a good ball-handler, knows to play pick and roll, and has improved a lot in his outside shooting. He comes also with a winning inertia after playing in Burgos for the last three seasons. That will help us build a strong mentality as a team."

U16 European Championship: Jan Wimberg propels Germany past Spain - by Eurobasket News

Germany U16 - Spain U16 88:64

Germany will play for the 5th overall position at U16 European Championship. They marched past Spain tonight to set up the clash versus Poland tomorrow. Jan Wimberg (202-G-96) came up with 16 points and 13 boards for the winners.
Germany dropped 24 points in the first quarter to take an 8-point lead. They unloaded 29 points in the second frame to stretch the margin. Germany enjoyed a 53:34 lead at halftime. Spain stopped the rot in the third term. They adjusted defensively cutting the deficit to 14 points with ten minutes remaining. But Germany ignited a 20:10 run in the fourth frame to secure a comfortable win at the end. Kevin Casper (199-F-96) and Mahir Agva (202-C-96) nailed 13 points each for the winners. David Martinez (203-F-96) answered with 13 points for Spain. Carlos Martinez (198-F-96) had 12 points in the loss.

Germany U16: Jan Wimberg 16+13 boards, Kevin Casper 13, Mahir Agva 13
Spain U16: David Martinez 13, Carlos Martinez 12

Navarra keep Ondrej Starosta - by Eurobasket News

Ondrej Starosta (215-C-79) will remain the player of Navarra. The sides have agreed on terms of contract extension. The Czech centre signed a new two-year deal with LEB Gold team. Ondrej Starosta joined Navarra at the start of the previous season. He tallied 12.6 points, 8.2 boards, 1.1 assists per game in LEB Gold. Eurobasket.com named Ondrej Starosta into All-Spanish LEB Gold 3rd Team. Previously the Czech centre had stints in Spain, France, Belgium, Serbia, Czech Republic. Eurobasket.com named him All-French ProB Centre of the Year in 2004. He made it into Spanish LEB Gold All-Bosmans Team in 2010 and 2012. The centre was the member of Czech Republic National Team in 2000/08 seasons.

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

SWEDEN

Henry Dugat arrives to Lulel - by Andreas Eriksson

LF Basket signed their first american for upcoming season 2012-2013. They agreed terms with Henry Dugat (183-G-87, college: Baylor) from Baylor. He spent last couple of years playing in Mexico and has never played in Europe before. He played NBA Summerleague in 2009 for Dallas, and in LF he is expected to mantle the role of Swedish National Team Player Rudy Mbemba. Dugat is described as a very athletic and quick player that can score in a variety of ways.

U16 European Championship: Montenegro clinch promotion - by Eurobasket News

Sweden U16-Montenegro U16 66:71

Montenegro clinch promotion at the U16 European Championship Division B. The team will play in Division A next year as they won the Semifinal game over Sweden 71:66. The Scandinavian team will have another chance to advance tomorrow in the game for the third place.
Sweden grabbed 18-12 lead after the first 10 minutes and had 5-point advantage at the halftime. It was not however enough as Montenegro dominated the rest of the game. They won the third period 22-14 and closed the game with 24-22 in the last stanza.
Petar Popovic (188-PG-96) top-scored for the winners with 21 points and Zoran Nikolic (202-C-96) as well as Aleksandar Dozic (199-F-96) had 11 each. Milos Andelic (171-PG-96) and Aleksandar Novosel (185-PG-96) delivered 10 points each in a win. Andreas Von Uthmann (196-F-96) and Ludvig Hakanson (190-PG-96) finished the game with 19 points each in defeat.

Sweden U16: Andreas Von Uthmann 19, Ludvig Hakanson 19
Montenegro U16: Petar Popovic 21, Zoran Nikolic 11, Aleksandar Dozic 11, Milos Andelic 10, Aleksandar Novosel 10

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

SWITZERLAND

TURKEY

Mersin won Holston race - by Sinan Can

WINNER of David Holston (170-G-86, college: Chicago St.) race became Mersin Buyuksheri Belediyespor. Due to the reports from the club, talented American point guard who has been in the list of his ex-club Pinar Karsiyaka and Erdemirspor, will join Coach Mete Babaoglu's team. After two succesful years at Pinar Karsiyaka, Hoston spent his last season with Artland Dragons of Germany. Despite being only 1.70, Holston showed his quickness, devastating zone press and scoring ability at German side where he averaged 15.3 points, 3.0 rebounds and 5.6 assists this past season. According to sources, Holston will get 325.000 USD from Mersin Buyuksehir Belediyespor for next season.

Turkey U18 ease past Ukraine U18 in Novi sad - by Eurobasket News

Turkey U18-Ukraine U18 67:62

Turkey U18 ease past Ukraine U18 in Novi sad in Day 2 of the International Tournament. The Turkish side improved to 2-0 record after 67:62 win and will face Serbia in the final day. Ukraine meanwhile dropped at 0-2 record and will take on Greece in their last game.
Turkey won the first period 17:12 and did not slow down in the first half. They reached 35:27 at the end of the second quarter, but then Ukraine pulled back. The latter reduced to 50:49 at the end of the third period and tried hard to win their initial game. Turkey however stayed tough and grabbed 5-point victory.
Cedi Osman (198-PG-95) top-scored for the winners with 15 points, while Kenan Sipahi (198-G-95) notched 8. Tayfun Erulku (196-SG-94) followed them with 8, while Metin Turen (198-F-94) scored 7.
In another game Serbia wins the second straight game in Novi Sad at the home tournament with 4 participating teams. The hosts overcame Greece U18 83:58 in Day 2.

TED Kolejliler tab Caner Erdeniz and Gokhan Yazicioglu - by Eurobasket News

TED Kolejliler strengthened their roster. They announced two new signings. The Ankara outfit have secured the services of Caner Erdeniz (188-G-87) and Gokhan Yazicioglu (200-F-90).
Caner Erdeniz spent the last season with Maliye Milli Piyango. The guard notched 11.8 points, 3.0 rebounds and 1.5 assists per game in TB2L. Caner Erdeniz is not new to TED Kolejliler. He played for the team back in 2007/09 seasons. He was the member of Turkish University National Team in 2009. Eurobasket.com named Caner Erdeniz into Turkish League All-Newcomers Team in 2009.
Gokhan Yazicioglu played for Inanlar ITU Istanbul in TB3L last season. Previously he played for TED Kolejliler.

U16 European Championship: Okben Ulubay steps up as Turkey see off Serbia - by Eurobasket News

Turkey U16 - Serbia U16 67:62

Okben Ulubay (200-F-97) scored 12 points in the decisive fourth quarter to lead Turkey past Serbia in the semifinal battle at U16 European Championship in Vilnius tonight. He finished with 17 points and 9 rebounds to secure the place in the title game for Turkey. Ogulcan Baykan (195-SG-96) topscored with 18 points for Turkey.
Serbia led by as many as 6 points ten minutes into the game 22:16. They stretched the lead to 11 points midway through the second quarter. Turkey managed to get within 7 at halftime 29:36. But Turkey limited their opponents to just 6 points in the third term to take a 44:42 lead at the final intermission. Ivan Daskalovic (199-SG-96) put Serbia back in charge midway through the fourth frame but Okben Ulubay, Gecim and Ogulcan Baykan made it 61:56 for Turkey. Ivan Daskalovic put Serbia within a single point twice but Okben Ulubay and Ogulcan Baykan converted four free throws late in regulation to seal the win for Turkey. Mert Cevik (198-G/F-96) and Akif Guven (206-C-96) had 8 points each for the winners. Ivan Daskalovic answered with 18 points for Serbia. Vasilije Vucetic (206-PF-96) had 16 points in the loss.

Turkey U16: Ogulcan Baykan 18, Okben Ulubay 17, Mert Cevik 8, Akif Guven 8
Serbia U16: Ivan Daskalovic 18, Vasilije Vucetic 16

TED Kolejliler tab Ben Woodside - by Eurobasket News

TED Kolejliler secured another signing. They brought in Ben Woodside (180-PG-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: N.Dakota St.). The point guard started the previous season with Union Olimpija. He tallied 6.0 points, 2.1 boards and 1.9 assists per game in Euroleague. In Adriatic League the guard notched 8.6 points, 3.2 assists and 1.7 rebounds. In December Ben Woodside moved to Georgia. He inked with BC Armia. Ben Woodside averaged 16.8 points, 7.0 assists, 3.8 rebounds per game in Georgian League. In EuroChallenge Ben Woodside posted 14.5 points, 5.5 assists, 4.5 boards and 1.5 steals. Eurobasket.com named Ben Woodside All-Georgian League Guard of the Year. Ben Woodside played for Gravelines before joining Union Olimpija.

Trabzonspor tab Jurica Zuza - by Eurobasket News

Trabzonspor added experience to the squad. They secured the services of Jurica Zuza (207-C-78, agency: Alti Sport) for the next season. The Croatian centre spent the last season in Turkey. He played for Tofas Bursa. His stats read 12.1 points, 4.0 rebounds, 1.1 assists per appearance. Previously Jurica Zuza had stints with Kryvbasbasket-Lux, Poltava-Basket, Cedevita, Rethimno, Cibona, Conad Rimini, Ionikos, Panathinaikos, Irakleio, Sanac Karlovac and KK Zadar. The centre made it into Eurobasket.com All-Ukrainian Superleague All-Defensive Team in 2009. Jurica Zuza was also named into Croatian A1 League All-Domestic Team in 2005. He was Greek Cup and Greek League champion in 2003. The centre also claimed two Croatian A1 League titles in 2006 and 2007. The centre was the member of Croatian National Team back in 2004.

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UBA

Jermaine Barnes chooses UBA over playing overseas for the 2012-13 season. - by David Walls

David Walls Reports
July 28, 2012

As we mentioned earlier this week, Disciples guard Jermaine Barnes (6'5''-G/F-82, agency: Gamble Sports Management, college: Point, GA) was mulling a contract with several international team (Kuwait, Argentina, France, Uruguay, Dominican Republic, Chile and Republic of Georgia) instead of re-signing with the GIE Morrow Disciples. Well, today it became official, Jermaine Barnes, the UBAs MVP last season, has resigned with the UBA and new team GIE Menfus Matrix (formally Disciples). Barnes, hands down one of the most popular US basketball players under the NBA radar has been featured in SLAM magazine and recently named to the USA Select Team that will complete in the William Jones Cup in Taiwan.

It was very hard for me to make this decision, said Barnes. I have been receiving several calls and emails from various clubs trying to get me to commit to playing this season. But at this time I want to focus on the NBA Dleague and honoring my contract in the UBA.

I wont bore you anymore with my talk of this type of situation becoming a slippery slope that I saw coming last year because were not quite at that point. Most UBA players arent quite as open as Barness to come to remain in the states, most players would take the money for the opportunity to play overseas.

Ive talked with a few guys and they all think Im crazy, said Barnes. The younger guys dont understand how important it is to have a kid, a business and passion for both. I love playing overseas but at this time the UBA is whats best for me.

However, as the seasons pass with international clubs as a viable option for players like Jermaine Barnes in the UBA things may not be the same without a player like Barnes in the league. In 2009 the league started with his star power helping the league build credibility and respect from fellow athletes. The UBA is now the hot bed for new talent looking to make it to the next level; In just 3 years the UBA has sent over 75 players overseas. This is a feat that cant be denied no matter how much other leagues may like to.

In 2012 Barnes was named UBA MVP while averaging an impressive 30.1ppg. He is the only MVP the league knows and is well deserved. Along with his great scoring ability Barnes has won 3 out of the 4 UBA championships and holds the all-time single game scoring record with 60 points versus the Tennessee Dragons in 2011. After this breakout game Barnes was spotlights in SLAM Magazine being named Mr. Under the Radar. Eurobasket.com later honored Barnes with Guard of the Year in the United States (he was the only minor league player of this list).

Outside of the UBA Barnes has played in several international countries including Japan, Uruguay, Mexico, Saudi Arabia and the Dominican Republic. In 2008 Barnes set the JBA Emperor's Cup All-Japan Tournament record in scoring with 63 points in one game.

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UKRAINE

U16 European Championship: Lithuania pound Ukraine in Vilnius - by Eurobasket News

Lithuania U16 - Ukraine U16 82:71

Lithuania occupied the 11th overall place at U16 European Championship. The hosts fired past Ukraine tonight. Matas Budrys (193-G/F-96) stepped up with 20 points to pace the Baltic team.
Lithuania ensured a 5:0 start to the game and dominated throughout the opening quarter. They posted a 22:16 lead ten minutes into the game. Ukraine managed to level things up at 25 midway through the second term but the hosts secured a 33:31 halftime advantage. The lead changed hands throughout the third period but Lithuania finished it strongly to pile up a 7-point advantage 56:49. Matas Budrys and Rupkus made it 61:49 for Lithuania at the start of the fourth period. Ukraine never recovered in the following minutes as the home team cruised to the victory. Aidas Einikis (191-SG-96) accounted for 16 points, while Domantas Pavlovskis (206-C-96) and Dominykas Zupkauskas (184-PG-96) added 10 points each in the victory. Oleksandr Kobets (192-SF-96) responded with 25 points for Ukraine. Illya Sydorov (183-PG-96) and Nikita Voievoda (180-PG-96) chipped in 8 points each in the loss.

Lithuania U16: Matas Budrys 20, Aidas Einikis 16, Domantas Pavlovskis 10, Dominykas Zupkauskas 10
Ukraine U16: Oleksandr Kobets 25, Illya Sydorov 8, Nikita Voievoda 8

Turkey U18 ease past Ukraine U18 in Novi sad - by Eurobasket News

Turkey U18-Ukraine U18 67:62

Turkey U18 ease past Ukraine U18 in Novi sad in Day 2 of the International Tournament. The Turkish side improved to 2-0 record after 67:62 win and will face Serbia in the final day. Ukraine meanwhile dropped at 0-2 record and will take on Greece in their last game.
Turkey won the first period 17:12 and did not slow down in the first half. They reached 35:27 at the end of the second quarter, but then Ukraine pulled back. The latter reduced to 50:49 at the end of the third period and tried hard to win their initial game. Turkey however stayed tough and grabbed 5-point victory.
Cedi Osman (198-PG-95) top-scored for the winners with 15 points, while Kenan Sipahi (198-G-95) notched 8. Tayfun Erulku (196-SG-94) followed them with 8, while Metin Turen (198-F-94) scored 7.
In another game Serbia wins the second straight game in Novi Sad at the home tournament with 4 participating teams. The hosts overcame Greece U18 83:58 in Day 2.

Serbia roll over Ukraine in Belgrade - by Eurobasket News

Serbia -Ukraine 84:65

Serbia roll over Ukraine in Belgrade in a friendly campaign between two sides. The hosts won the first game 84:65 as they produced narrow victories in all four quarters.
Serbia grabbed a 29:24 lead at the end of the first period and continued their dominance throughout the game. They added 18-17 in the second quarter for 47:41 halftime advantage. Moreover Serbia erupted with 21-9 in the third frame for 18-point lead after three quarters. The hosts added another 18-15 in the last stanza to seal the victory in the opener.
Nemanja Bjelica (209-F/C-88, agency: Interperformances) stepped up with 13 points and Nemanja Nedovic (192-PG-91, agency: Beo Basket) netted 12. Vladimir Lucic (202-F-89, agency: Beo Basket) and Mile Ilic (215-C-84, agency: Interperformances) followed them with 10 points apiece. Kornienko finished the game with 11 points, while Gleb Glebov (208-C-82), Viacheslav Kravtsov (212-C-87, agency: Beo Basket) and Steven Burtt (185-G-84, college: Iona) nailed 9 each. Gumenuk followed them with 7 pints in a loss.
Tonight the teams will face each other again.

Serbia: Nemanja Bjelica 13, Nemanja Nedovic 12, Vladimir Lucic 10, Mile Ilic 10
Ukraine: Kornienko 11, Gleb Glebov 9, Viacheslav Kravtsov 9, Steven Burtt 9, Gumenuk 7

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UNITED KINGDOM

U16 European Championship: Slovenia defeat England - by Eurobasket News

Slovenia U16 - England U16 66:64

Slovenia earned victory on the last but one day of action at U16 European Championship. They held off England for 2-3 record in Group G. England fell at 1-4 record after the loss. Matej Kavas (193-G-96) stepped up with 16 points to lead the charge.
England led by four points after ten minutes of action 20:16. They maintained the lead in the second quarter. The English team posted a 35:30 halftime advantage. England extended the lead in the third frame. They secured a 9-point buffer heading into the fourth quarter 52:43. Matej Kavas and Slutej drained three-pointers early in the final frame to set the tone. Slutej and Matej Kavas connected for two more treys as Slovenia earned a 64:60 lead. Domen Janc (185-PG-96) made it 66:62 for Slovenia and they stayed in charge till the final buzzer. Tilen Kodrin (202-SF-96) posted 13 points and 12 rebounds, while Domen Janc added 12 points for Slovenia. Ikponmwosa Oghide (96) responded with 17 points and 9 rebounds for England. Joe Mvuezolo (193-SF-96) chipped in 14 points in the loss.

Slovenia U16: Matej Kavas 16, Tilen Kodrin 13+12 boards, Domen Janc 12
England U16: Ikponmwosa Oghide 17, Joe Mvuezolo 14

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URUGUAY

Trouville bring in Justin Keenan - by Eurobasket News

Trouville bolstered their frontcourt. They agreed on terms of contract with Justin Keenan (201-F/C-88, agency: Arete Sports Agency, college: Ferris St.). The centre started the previous season with Larre Borges in Uruguay. He tallied 23.9 points, 10.8 rebounds and 1.6 steals per game in LUB. Later the centre moved to Venezuela. He inked with Panteras de Miranda. The centre notched 9.8 points, 6.5 boards and 1.2 steals per game in LPB. It was the first pro season for Justin Keenan. He graduated from Ferris State University in 2011. The centre made it into Daktronics Division II All-America 1st Team. He also participated at NABC Division I All-Star Game in 2011.

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VENEZUELA

Trotamundos land Enielsen Guevara - by Eurobasket News

Trotamanudos de Carabobo announced the completion of trade with Gaiteros de Zulia. Trotamundos acquired Enielsen Guevara (204-F/C-82) in exchange for Yorvis Umbria and Leinert Zerpa (182-G-81).
Enielsen Guevara started the previous season with Gaiteros. The centre notched 4.2 points and 2.1 boards per game for the team. In March Gaiteros loaned the centre to Marinos de Angoategui. Enielsen Guevara posted 2.0 points per game for Marinos. Enielsen Guevara is the member of Colombian National Team. He participated at 2012 South American Championship. The centre tallied 12.3 points, 8.3 boards and 1.0 assist per game in Chaco. He has been playing in Venezuela since 2005.

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WALES

Women News

Turkey overwhelms Angola 72-50 in women's Olympic basketball debut for both teams - by Eurobasket News

Turkey won its Olympic debut in women's basketball and spoiled Angola's with a 72-50 victory over the African nation Saturday.

Tugba Palazoglu (171-G-80) led Turkey with 13 points in the Group A matchup. American-born centre Quanitra Hollingsworth (196-C-88, college: VCU) and Saziye Ivegin (183-F-82) added 10 each. All 12 Turkey players played and all but two scored against overmatched Angola.

Nassecela Mauricio (181-F-80, agency: Josep and Nicolas) led Angola with 11 points. Turkey shot 50 per cent from three-point range, making half of its 16 attempts.

Angola did not score until 3:20 left in the first quarter after Turkey opened the contest with a 13-0 run.

Turkey, runner-up at the European Championship, led by 10 at halftime and went on a 7-0 run to open a 42-25 lead in the third quarter.

Hollingsworth, who starred at VCU, became naturalized to play for Turkey in May. She was first approached by the Turks to play for them in January.

Courtesy of http://ca.sports.yahoo.com

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AUSTRALIA

Australia beats Britain 74-58 in opening game of London Games basketball - by Eurobasket News

Carrying the Australian flag at the London Olympics opening ceremony obviously inspired Lauren Jackson (196-F/C-81) with the Opals star dominating her team's opening win of the Games.

The Australian captain showed no ill effects from her long night at the opening ceremony, starring in the first half against Britain to lead her team to a comfortable 74-58 victory.

Jackson, playing in her fourth Olympics, scored 15 points in the opening half before she understandably tired with only three points in the second half.

"I'm beat now," she said. "I just want to go to sleep. It's been an emotional 48 hours."

Jackson found herself in everything as usual and also managed to get in a confrontation with Britain's centre Julie Page (188-PF-83, college: E.Washington) in the final quarter with both players receiving technical fouls after a clash underneath the basket.

It had been a a dream start by Australia's two big guns with Cambage Elizabeth (203-C-91) winning the open tip-off and then receiving a lob pass which she converted plus one for the foul.

Jackson's first shot was a three-pointer and that set the tone for her first half of dominance and she scored 15 of the Opals 39 points.

Once again Cambage was struck with foul troubles. She had two inside the opening two minutes and then when she finally reappeared midway through the second got another one which was enough for coach Carrie Graf who benched the centre again.

But the coach has backed the young gun to bounce back.

"She definitely was nervous and that impacted her focus," Graf said.

"One of her (pre-match) goals was to breathe. I think that indicates where she was with her emotions.

"It's good for Liz to get that one under her belt. Now she can buckle down and play basketball.

"She's young, but her emotional skills are still a work-in-progress."

Veteran Suzy Batkovic was a more than adequate replacement, leading Australia's rebounds for the half and also scoring six points.

The highlight early came from Jenna O'Hea (185-SF-87) who mistakenly scored a three-pointer when actually attempting a lob pass, much to the dismay of the home crowd.

Britain, who are coached by former Aussie coach Tom Maher, showed some good physicality early but fell in a hole at the start of the second quarter going scoreless for more than five minutes.

Johannah Leedham (180-SF-87, college: Franklin Pierce), who plays for the Bulleen Boomers in the WNBL, looked the most dangerous for the British and she helped to engineer a mini-comeback in the third quarter with the gap closing to 11 at one stage before the Australians steadied.

It was a big ask for Britain given they were making their first appearance in the Olympics since 1948 and they only received a berth because they were the host nation.

An encouraging sign for the Opals was the form of point guard Samantha Richards who was busy all game finishing with eight points while back-up power forward Abby Bishop (189-C-88) also showed promising signs.

The Opals next opponent, France, produced an impressive last-quarter burst to get over Brazil in their opening game 73-58.

Courtesy of www.dailytelegraph.com.au

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

BRAZIL

Celine Dumerc scores 23, leads France women to 73-58 victory over Brazil in Olympic tournament - by Eurobasket News

Celine Dumerc (169-G-82) scored 23 points Saturday to lead France to a 73-58 victory over Brazil on the opening day of the women's Olympic tournament.

Dumerc, who also had five assist, made a jumper and then hit one of two free throws with 2:37 left to stretch France's lead to 15 and complete the decisive 11-0 run that secured France's victory in Group B.

Erika De Souza (197-C-82, agency: Josep and Nicolas), who plays WNBA's Atlanta Dream, led Brazil with 17 points. The Brazilians are competing with an 11-player roster.

Iziane Castro Marques was removed from the team on July 20 after violating a team rule.

In a release on its website, the Brazil federation said Marques' infraction occurred off the court.

Because Marques isn't injured and Brazil had already submitted its Olympic roster only a substitution for an injury could have been made.

Courtesy of www.therepublic.com

Tough opening round for Team Brasil - by Mel Devonne

There are high hopes for the Brasil national women's basketball team for the London Olympics.
Hope had a set back in the opening round game against a very tough French team.
Brasil led after the 1st quarter but wore down by the end of the game and couldnt get
anything to fall in 4th quarter as Brasil loses 73-58 to france
Brasil had a tough time scoring after the first quarter and shot only 32 % for the game.
Brasil also got outscored 21-9 in the 4th quarter and could never get back in the game
after staying within striking distance for most of the game.
The French team swarmed Brasil Erika de Souza and French guard Dumerc's quickness
hurt the Brasil back court in the 2nd half.
I am happy to see Brasil using Clarrisa dos Santos alot. She's a player whose praises I have
been singing after working with her in Rio 2 years ago. Clarrisa finished with 9 points and 12 rebounds.
Brasil will next play a very tough Russia team who edged Canada today in round one.

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BULGARIA

Bulgaria has no mercy for Switzerland at U18 EuroBasket Division B - by Eurobasket News

U18 SWITZERLAND - U18 BULGARIA 29-81

Bulgaria registered its second straight win at U18 EuroBasket Division B in Strumica. They destroyed Switzerland 81-29 for perfect 2-0 record in Preliminary Group B. Bulgaria took control on its rival from the very beginning and never looked back. Quarters: 9-20, 14-20, 2-24, 4-17. Switzerland dropped to 0-2 in this pool. Iva Kostova (178-SG-94) and Kalina Aksentieva (182-PF-95) led Bulgaria with 15 points and 5 rebounds each. Borislava Hristova (180-F-96) delivered 12 points. In defeat, Brigitte Huguenin (96) scored 11 points and Alexandra Koch (175-PG-94) had 8. Ljubica Cutunic (186-F-94) stopped to 5 pts and 9 boards. Bulgaria will play against Denmark today. Switzerland will meet Norway hoping to get the first win in Strumica.

Switzerland: Brigitte Huguenin 11, Alexandra Koch 8, Ljubica Cutunic 5+9 boards
Bulgaria: Iva Kostova 15+5 boards, Kalina Aksentieva 15+5 boards, Borislava Hristova 12

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CANADA

Hammon, Russia women rally to beat Canada 58-53 - by Eurobasket News

Becky Hammon (175-PG-77, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Colorado St.) delivered when Russia needed her most.

The South Dakota native scored eight straight points down the stretch to help Russia rally from double-digit deficit in the fourth quarter Saturday to beat Canada 58-53 on the opening day of women's basketball at the Olympics.

"You just keep playing and good things will happen," said Hammon, who plays for the San Antonio Silver Stars. "Defensively we got a lot better in the fourth quarter. We got some deflections and were able to run."

Hammon is playing in her second Olympics for Russia. She became a Russian naturalized citizen before the Beijing Games. Because she hadn't played for the United States in any major FIBA-sanctioned international events, she is allowed to compete for Russia in the Olympics.

Her patriotism was questioned in 2008 when she played with Russia, which won the bronze medal. Hammon's second Olympics isn't drawing as much attention.

She said there's not "so much hoopla around me and everyone's kind of settled in. Other girls are playing for other teams, so it's not so much focused on me."

The 5-foot-6 Hammon came up big for Russia against Canada.

Trailing 50-40 with 6 minutes left, Russia closed the game with an 18-3 run led by Hammon. Anna Petrakova (189-PF-84) hit a 3-pointer and a lay-in to get the spurt started. Then Hammon took over. After struggling in the first three quarters, she got going.

"We found good balance only at the end and we went to our leader," Russia coach Boris Sokolvskiy said. "Becky understood that her 3-point shot was not good tonight so she went under the basket and created many opportunities for us."

Her lay-in with 2:35 left tied the game at 50. She followed 30 seconds later with a basket that gave Russia its first lead since early in the opening quarter. Hammon then scored another lay-in that made it 54-51 with 1:06 left. She capped her own run with another layup.

"I couldn't throw it in the ocean if I was sitting in a boat," said Hammon, who missed all five of her three-point attempts. "I just kept working and believing eventually the shots would fall. My teammates kept telling me to keep shooting."

Canada couldn't make another basket the rest of the way and couldn't stop Hammon.

"She's a great player, she's a clutch player and picked us a part in the first half," said Kimberley Smith (186-F-84, college: Utah), who led Canada with 20 points. "In the second half she took them on her back and made some really amazing finishes on her layups."

Canada returned to the Olympics for the first time in 12 years after earning the final spot in the women's field. Despite the loss, the team wasn't discouraged.

"Honestly we knew we were good coming in," Smith said. "We're a team that's under the radar, but we don't feel like we can't compete here. We're confident we can come into any game and compete."

Canada, which will play Britain on Monday, qualified for the Olympics for the first time since 2000 after finishing fifth in the pre-Olympic qualifier earlier this month.

Canada's roster is full of former and current U.S. college players. Courtney Pilypaitis starred for Vermont while Lizanne Murphy played at Hofstra. Natalie Achonwa has played in the last two Final Fours for Notre Dame.

Russia is missing star center Maria Stepanova. The 6-foot-8 star, who has played in the last four Olympics, tore her anterior cruciate ligament at the Euroleague final eight in late March.

The Russians will face Brazil on Monday.

"We're a work in progress," Hammon said, "we still have a lot of room for growth."

Courtesy of http://sports.yahoo.com

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CHINA

China beats Czech Republic 66-57 in Olympic opener - by Eurobasket News

Ma Zengyu (183-F-84) scored 16 points to lead China to a 66-57 victory over the Czech Republic on Saturday in their Group A opener, the first game of the women's Olympic basketball competition.

China held double-digit leads in the first and second halves, but needed a 13-4 spurt to end the game to seal the victory.

The gritty Czech Republic never led after scoring the first basket of the game, but battled back to tie the game twice - once at 24 and again at 53 with 7:34 to play.

But China used a couple of missed shots by the Czechs to pull away down the stretch and surprise the 2010 World Championship silver medalists. Miao LiJie (178-F-81) had 12 points, 8 assists and 5 rebounds in victory. Czech Republic got 14 pts and 6 board from Eva Viteckova (190-F-82).

China plays Croatia on Monday, and the Czech Republic takes on Turkey.

Courtesy of http://sports.yahoo.com

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CROATIA

US women overcome sloppy play, beat Croatia 81-56 in their Olympic opener - by Eurobasket News

Tina Charles (6'4''-C-88, agency: LBM Management, college: Connecticut) scored 14 points and Angel McCoughtry (6'1''-SF-86, college: Louisville) added 13 to lead the U.S. women's basketball team to a sloppy 81-56 victory over Croatia on Saturday in their Olympic opener.

Coach Geno Auriemma had said he was hoping that the Americans could play a style of basketball that would be entertaining and help grow the game internationally. That didn't happen Saturday as the U.S. struggled for the first three quarters before pulling away to win their 34th consecutive Olympic contest.

The victory was far different than the 54-point pounding the Americans gave Croatia a week earlier.

Despite missing its first 14 shots, Croatia hung tough for the first 30 minutes before the Americans finally could pull away.

The U.S., which has dominated its opponents en route to the last four gold medals, only led 53-49 early in the fourth quarter before a 16-0 run put the game out of reach.

Jelena Ivezic (6'0''-F/G-84) scored 22 points in Croatia and Marija Vrsaljko (6'6''-C-89) had 19.

Courtesy of www.huffingtonpost.com

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CZECH REPUBLIC

DENMARK

U18 Denmark wins in its first game in Strumica - by Eurobasket News

U18 DENMARK - U18 FINLAND 58-54

Denmark celebrated in its first appearance at U18 EuroBasket Division B in Strumica. They outplayed Finland 58-54 handing them first loss at this event. It means that Denmark has 1-0 record now in Group B, while Finland dropped to 1-1. Simone Ceccardi (182-PF-95) led the winners with 12 points and 5 rebounds. Frederikke Mollerup (177-G/F-95) scored 10 points and Maria Jespersen (179-G-94) added 9 pts, plus 9 rebs. In defeat, Kaisa Kuisma (180-SF-94) collected 14 points and 5 rebounds. Anni Jamsa (167-PG-95) and Evianna Sipila (178-SF-95) stopped to 8 points each. Quarters: 18-13, 13-15, 11-14, 16-12. Today, Denmark will meet Bulgaria. Finland will have a day off.

Denmark: Simone Ceccardi 12+5 boards, Frederikke Mollerup 10, Maria Jespersen 9+9 boards
Finland: Kaisa Kuisma 14+5 boards, Anni Jamsa 8, Evianna Sipila 8

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EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U18

W-Standings - Group A

Standings

Group A
1. France		3-0
2. Spain		2-1
3. Sweden		1-2
4. Poland		0-3
Group B
1. Turkey		3-0
2. Russia		2-1
3. Greece		1-2
4. Romania		0-3
Group C
1. Holland		3-0
2. Croatia		2-1
3. Slovakia		1-2
4. Czech Rep.		0-3
Group D
1. Italy		2-1
2. Serbia		2-1
3. Slovenia		1-2
4. Belgium		1-2

Preliminary Round: Round 3

Jul. 28: ESP - SWE 74-52
Jul. 28: POL - FRA 50-65

Jul. 28: TUR - GRE 58-42
Jul. 28: ROM - RUS 38-80

Jul. 28: NED - CZE 61-51
Jul. 28: SVK - CRO 60-73

Jul. 28: BEL - ITA 73-64
Jul. 28: SLO - SRB 56-66

Qualifying Round: Round 4

Jul. 30: SWE - TUR
Jul. 30: RUS - ESP
Jul. 30: GRE - FRA

Jul. 30: SVK - ITA
Jul. 30: SLO - NED
Jul. 30: SRB - CRO

Jul. 30: ROM - CZE
Jul. 30: POL - BEL

Standings - Division B - by Charles Ramsdell

Standings Div.B

Group A
1. Portugal		2-0
2. Austria		1-1
3. Hungary		1-1
4. Israel		0-2
Group B
1. Bulgaria		3-0
2. Denmark		1-1
3. Finland		1-1
4. Norway		1-1
5. Switzerlan.		0-3
Group C
1. Belarus		2-0
2. U.Kingdom		1-1
3. Latvia		1-1
4. FYR Macedo.		0-2
Group D
1. Germany		3-0
2. Lithuania		2-0
3. Montenegro.		1-2
4. Scotland		0-2
5. Ukraine		0-2

Preliminary Round: Round 3

Jul. 28: AUT - ISR 75-57
Jul. 28: HUN - POR 54-55

Jul. 28: BUL - DEN 61-49
Jul. 28: NOR - SUI 54-51

Jul. 28: BLR - ENG 71-67
Jul. 28: MKD - LAT 49-79

Jul. 28: GER - UKR 60-53
Jul. 28: SCO - MNT 53-66

Preliminary Round: Round 4

Jul. 29: FIN - BUL
Jul. 29: DEN - NOR

Jul. 29: LTU - GER
Jul. 29: UKR - SCO

Division B: Day Two in Strumica - by Eurobasket News

Group B

Switzerland - Bulgaria 29-81
Bulgaria registered its second straight win at U18 EuroBasket Division B in Strumica. They destroyed Switzerland 81-29 for perfect 2-0 record in Preliminary Group B. Bulgaria took control on its rival from the very beginning and never looked back. Quarters: 9-20, 14-20, 2-24, 4-17. Switzerland dropped to 0-2 in this pool. Iva Kostova (178-SG-94) and Kalina Aksentieva (182-PF-95) led Bulgaria with 15 points and 5 rebounds each. Borislava Hristova (180-F-96) delivered 12 points. In defeat, Brigitte Huguenin (96) scored 11 points and Alexandra Koch (175-PG-94) had 8. Ljubica Cutunic (186-F-94) stopped to 5 pts and 9 boards. Bulgaria will play against Denmark today. Switzerland will meet Norway hoping to get the first win in Strumica.

Denmark - Finland 58-54
Denmark celebrated in its first appearance at U18 EuroBasket Division B in Strumica. They outplayed Finland 58-54 handing them first loss at this event. It means that Denmark has 1-0 record now in Group B, while Finland dropped to 1-1. Simone Ceccardi (182-PF-95) led the winners with 12 points and 5 rebounds. Frederikke Mollerup (177-G/F-95) scored 10 points and Maria Jespersen (179-G-94) added 9 pts, plus 9 rebs. In defeat, Kaisa Kuisma (180-SF-94) collected 14 points and 5 rebounds. Anni Jamsa (167-PG-95) and Evianna Sipila (178-SF-95) stopped to 8 points each. Quarters: 18-13, 13-15, 11-14, 16-12. Today, Denmark will meet Bulgaria. Finland will have a day off.

Group D

Montenegro - Germany 47-71
Germany had no mercy for Montenegro 71-47 in Day Two of U18 EuroBasket Division B in Strumica. After this victory Germany jumped to 2-0 record in Preliminary Group D. At the other side, Montenegro faced with the second straight loss (0-2). Marie Gulich (192-C-94) (10 rebs) and Elisabeth Dzirma (179-G-94) scored 14 points each for the winners. Katharina Muller (181-F-94) helped with 9 pts and 5 boards. In Montenegro, Milena Vujacic (95) and Majda Kolic (96) posted 12 and 10 points respectively. Milena Djaletic (186-C-94) had 6 points. Quarters: 9-11, 13-20, 10-15, 15-25. Germany will play against Ukraine today. Montenegro will meet Scotland hoping to get the first win at this event.

Ukraine - Lithuania 59-64 OT
Lithuania jumped to 2-0 record in Preliminary Group D of U18 EuroBasket Division B in Strumica. They grabbed 64-59 OT win against Ukraine on Friday. At the same time, it was the first appearance for Ukraine at this event. Justina Kraujunaite (174-F-95) was a key player in victory with 22 points and 5 rebounds. Greta Tamasauskaite (171-G-91) secured a great help adding 14 points and 10 rebounds, while Austeja Sirsinaityte (164-PG-95) added 11 pts. In Ukraine, Nataliya Skorbatyuk (183-F-95) top-scored with 12 points. Oksana Batrakova (186-C-95) had 11 points and 10 rebounds, while Olga Krayevska (178-PG-94) and Liliia Kopylets (182-F-94) stopped to 10 pts each. Quarters: 9-16, 17-12, 19-12, 9-14, 5-10 OT. Lithuania will take a rest today. Ukraine will meet Germany.

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FINLAND

FRANCE

Celine Dumerc scores 23, leads France women to 73-58 victory over Brazil in Olympic tournament - by Eurobasket News

Celine Dumerc (169-G-82) scored 23 points Saturday to lead France to a 73-58 victory over Brazil on the opening day of the women's Olympic tournament.

Dumerc, who also had five assist, made a jumper and then hit one of two free throws with 2:37 left to stretch France's lead to 15 and complete the decisive 11-0 run that secured France's victory in Group B.

Erika De Souza (197-C-82, agency: Josep and Nicolas), who plays WNBA's Atlanta Dream, led Brazil with 17 points. The Brazilians are competing with an 11-player roster.

Iziane Castro Marques was removed from the team on July 20 after violating a team rule.

In a release on its website, the Brazil federation said Marques' infraction occurred off the court.

Because Marques isn't injured and Brazil had already submitted its Olympic roster only a substitution for an injury could have been made.

Courtesy of www.therepublic.com

U18 France wins Preliminary Group A in Bucharest - by Eurobasket News

U18 POLAND - U18 FRANCE 50-65

France is the winner of Preliminary Group A in Bucharest and of course advanced to the next stage. They outplayed Poland for perfect 3-0 record at U18 EuroBasket. Poland finished as the last ranked team of this pool (0-3) and will be transferred to Group G (13th-16th place). There, Poland will fight for the survival and only the winner of this group will avoid relegation to Division B. France created 15-point lead at the beginning, but Poland closed the gap to 6 pts at the halftime. Third quarter was totally leveled (9-9) and France shined in the last ten minutes (20-11) to take the victory in this meeting. Mamignan Toure (179-SG-94) and Valeriane Ayayi (184-F-94) (5 rebs) stepped up for France with 14 and 13 points respectively. Marieme Badiane (190-F/C-94) also was great adding 9 points and 15 rebs. Actually, she was the MVP of this meeting with valuation 19. In Poland, Katarzyna Jaworska (188-F/C-94) had 8 points and 8 rebounds. Karolina Puss (182-SF-94), Magdalena Wojdalska (185-SG-94) and Angelika Stankiewicz (170-SG-95) posted 8 pts each. On Monday, France will play against Greece in the Qualifying Group E. Poland will meet Belgium in the first game of Group G.

Poland: Katarzyna Jaworska 8+8 boards, Karolina Puss 8, Magdalena Wojdalska 8, Angelika Stankiewicz 8
France: Mamignan Toure 14, Valeriane Ayayi 13+5 boards, Marieme Badiane 9+15 boards

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GERMANY

Germany outguns Montenegro 71-47 at U18 EuroBasket Division B - by Eurobasket News

U18 MONTENEGRO - U18 GERMANY 47-71

Germany had no mercy for Montenegro 71-47 in Day Two of U18 EuroBasket Division B in Strumica. After this victory Germany jumped to 2-0 record in Preliminary Group D. At the other side, Montenegro faced with the second straight loss (0-2). Marie Gulich (192-C-94) (10 rebs) and Elisabeth Dzirma (179-G-94) scored 14 points each for the winners. Katharina Muller (181-F-94) helped with 9 pts and 5 boards. In Montenegro, Milena Vujacic (95) and Majda Kolic (96) posted 12 and 10 points respectively. Milena Djaletic (186-C-94) had 6 points. Quarters: 9-11, 13-20, 10-15, 15-25. Germany will play against Ukraine today. Montenegro will meet Scotland hoping to get the first win at this event.

Montenegro: Milena Vujacic 12, Majda Kolic 10, Milena Djaletic 6
Germany: Marie Gulich 14+10 boards, Elisabeth Dzirma 14, Katharina Muller 9+5 boards

Wasserburg signs Dalila Eshe - by Juliane Hoehne

The second US-Girl under the baskets will be Dalila Eshe (191-F-84, college: Florida) for Wasserburg. New Head Coach Bastian Wernthaler signed the 6'3 Post player for various reasons: Despite her height is she incredibly flexible and has a good shot from middle distance. Therefore, shes not just a threat below the basket.
The 28-year old American comes from BLK VSE Praha , where she competed last season in the first czech league. She averaged 14.2ppg and 7.8rpg and was one of the important players. Dalila Eshe will bring also experience to the Wasserburg Team after playing in Russia, Rumania and several seasons in Turkey.
Dalila Eshe will be next to Emma Cannon (188-F, college: Cent.Florida) the only US-girls on the team since only two Non-European players are allowed to play in the EuroCup.

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LITHUANIA

U18 Lithuania wins second straight game in Strumica - by Eurobasket News

U18 UKRAINE - U18 LITHUANIA 59-64 OT

Lithuania jumped to 2-0 record in Preliminary Group D of U18 EuroBasket Division B in Strumica. They grabbed 64-59 OT win against Ukraine on Friday. At the same time, it was the first appearance for Ukraine at this event. Justina Kraujunaite (174-F-95) was a key player in victory with 22 points and 5 rebounds. Greta Tamasauskaite (171-G-91) secured a great help adding 14 points and 10 rebounds, while Austeja Sirsinaityte (164-PG-95) added 11 pts. In Ukraine, Nataliya Skorbatyuk (183-F-95) top-scored with 12 points. Oksana Batrakova (186-C-95) had 11 points and 10 rebounds, while Olga Krayevska (178-PG-94) and Liliia Kopylets (182-F-94) stopped to 10 pts each. Quarters: 9-16, 17-12, 19-12, 9-14, 5-10 OT. Lithuania will take a rest today. Ukraine will meet Germany.

Ukraine: Nataliya Skorbatyuk 12, Oksana Batrakova 11+10 boards, Olga Krayevska 10, Liliia Kopylets 10
Lithuania: Justina Kraujunaite 22+5 boards, Greta Tamasauskaite 14+10 boards, Austeja Sirsinaityte 11

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MONTENEGRO

OLYMPIC GAMES

Standings - Women

Standings

Group A
1. Turkey		1-0
2. USA		1-0
3. China		1-0
4. Croatia		0-1
5. Czech Rep.		0-1
6. Angola		0-1
Group B
1. France		1-0
2. Russia		1-0
3. Australia		1-0
4. Brazil		0-1
5. Canada		0-1
6. U.Kingdom		0-1

Preliminary Round: Round 1

Jul. 28: USA - CRO 81-56
Jul. 28: TUR - ANG 72-50
Jul. 28: CHN - CZE 66-57

Jul. 28: AUS - ENG 74-58
Jul. 28: BRA - FRA 58-73
Jul. 28: CAN - RUS 53-58

Preliminary Round: Round 2

Jul. 30: CRO - CHN
Jul. 30: CZE - TUR
Jul. 30: ANG - USA

Jul. 30: FRA - AUS
Jul. 30: RUS - BRA
Jul. 30: ENG - CAN

Day One of the Olympic Games in London - by Eurobasket News

Group A

Turkey - Angola 72-50
Turkey won its Olympic debut in women's basketball and spoiled Angola's with a 72-50 victory over the African nation Saturday. Tugba Palazoglu (171-G-80) led Turkey with 13 points in the Group A matchup. American-born centre Quanitra Hollingsworth (196-C-88, college: VCU) and Saziye Ivegin (183-F-82) added 10 each. All 12 Turkey players played and all but two scored against overmatched Angola. Nassecela Mauricio (181-F-80, agency: Josep and Nicolas) led Angola with 11 points. Turkey shot 50 per cent from three-point range, making half of its 16 attempts. Angola did not score until 3:20 left in the first quarter after Turkey opened the contest with a 13-0 run. Turkey, runner-up at the European Championship, led by 10 at halftime and went on a 7-0 run to open a 42-25 lead in the third quarter. Hollingsworth, who starred at VCU, became naturalized to play for Turkey in May. She was first approached by the Turks to play for them in January. Courtesy of http://ca.sports.yahoo.com

USA - Croatia 81-56
Tina Charles (193-C-88, agency: LBM Management, college: Connecticut) scored 14 points and Angel McCoughtry (185-SF-86, college: Louisville) added 13 to lead the U.S. women's basketball team to a sloppy 81-56 victory over Croatia on Saturday in their Olympic opener. Coach Geno Auriemma had said he was hoping that the Americans could play a style of basketball that would be entertaining and help grow the game internationally. That didn't happen Saturday as the U.S. struggled for the first three quarters before pulling away to win their 34th consecutive Olympic contest. The victory was far different than the 54-point pounding the Americans gave Croatia a week earlier. Despite missing its first 14 shots, Croatia hung tough for the first 30 minutes before the Americans finally could pull away. The U.S., which has dominated its opponents en route to the last four gold medals, only led 53-49 early in the fourth quarter before a 16-0 run put the game out of reach. Jelena Ivezic (182-F/G-84) scored 22 points in Croatia and Marija Vrsaljko (6'6''-C-89) had 19. Courtesy of www.huffingtonpost.com

China - Czech Republic 66-57
Ma Zengyu (183-F-84) scored 16 points to lead China to a 66-57 victory over the Czech Republic on Saturday in their Group A opener, the first game of the women's Olympic basketball competition. China held double-digit leads in the first and second halves, but needed a 13-4 spurt to end the game to seal the victory. The gritty Czech Republic never led after scoring the first basket of the game, but battled back to tie the game twice - once at 24 and again at 53 with 7:34 to play. But China used a couple of missed shots by the Czechs to pull away down the stretch and surprise the 2010 World Championship silver medalists. Miao LiJie (178-F-81) had 12 points, 8 assists and 5 rebounds in victory. Czech Republic got 14 pts and 6 board from Eva Viteckova (190-F-82). China plays Croatia on Monday, and the Czech Republic takes on Turkey. Courtesy of http://sports.yahoo.com

Group B

Brazil - France 58-73
Celine Dumerc (169-G-82) scored 23 points Saturday to lead France to a 73-58 victory over Brazil on the opening day of the women's Olympic tournament. Dumerc, who also had five assist, made a jumper and then hit one of two free throws with 2:37 left to stretch France's lead to 15 and complete the decisive 11-0 run that secured France's victory in Group B. Erika De Souza (197-C-82, agency: Josep and Nicolas), who plays WNBA's Atlanta Dream, led Brazil with 17 points. The Brazilians are competing with an 11-player roster. Iziane Castro Marques was removed from the team on July 20 after violating a team rule. In a release on its website, the Brazil federation said Marques' infraction occurred off the court. Because Marques isn't injured and Brazil had already submitted its Olympic roster only a substitution for an injury could have been made. Courtesy of www.therepublic.com

Australia - United Kingdom 74-58
Carrying the Australian flag at the London Olympics opening ceremony obviously inspired Lauren Jackson (196-F/C-81) with the Opals star dominating her team's opening win of the Games. The Australian captain showed no ill effects from her long night at the opening ceremony, starring in the first half against Britain to lead her team to a comfortable 74-58 victory. Jackson, playing in her fourth Olympics, scored 15 points in the opening half before she understandably tired with only three points in the second half. "I'm beat now," she said. "I just want to go to sleep. It's been an emotional 48 hours." Jackson found herself in everything as usual and also managed to get in a confrontation with Britain's centre Julie Page (188-PF-83, college: E.Washington) in the final quarter with both players receiving technical fouls after a clash underneath the basket. It had been a a dream start by Australia's two big guns with Cambage Elizabeth (203-C-91) winning the open tip-off and then receiving a lob pass which she converted plus one for the foul. Jackson's first shot was a three-pointer and that set the tone for her first half of dominance and she scored 15 of the Opals 39 points. Once again Cambage was struck with foul troubles. She had two inside the opening two minutes and then when she finally reappeared midway through the second got another one which was enough for coach Carrie Graf who benched the centre again. But the coach has backed the young gun to bounce back. "She definitely was nervous and that impacted her focus," Graf said. "One of her (pre-match) goals was to breathe. I think that indicates where she was with her emotions. "It's good for Liz to get that one under her belt. Now she can buckle down and play basketball. "She's young, but her emotional skills are still a work-in-progress." Veteran Suzy Batkovic was a more than adequate replacement, leading Australia's rebounds for the half and also scoring six points. The highlight early came from Jenna O'Hea (185-SF-87) who mistakenly scored a three-pointer when actually attempting a lob pass, much to the dismay of the home crowd. Britain, who are coached by former Aussie coach Tom Maher, showed some good physicality early but fell in a hole at the start of the second quarter going scoreless for more than five minutes. Johannah Leedham (180-SF-87, college: Franklin Pierce), who plays for the Bulleen Boomers in the WNBL, looked the most dangerous for the British and she helped to engineer a mini-comeback in the third quarter with the gap closing to 11 at one stage before the Australians steadied. It was a big ask for Britain given they were making their first appearance in the Olympics since 1948 and they only received a berth because they were the host nation. An encouraging sign for the Opals was the form of point guard Samantha Richards who was busy all game finishing with eight points while back-up power forward Abby Bishop (189-C-88) also showed promising signs. The Opals next opponent, France, produced an impressive last-quarter burst to get over Brazil in their opening game 73-58. Courtesy of www.dailytelegraph.com.au

Canada - Russia 53-58
Becky Hammon (175-PG-77, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Colorado St.) delivered when Russia needed her most. The South Dakota native scored eight straight points down the stretch to help Russia rally from double-digit deficit in the fourth quarter Saturday to beat Canada 58-53 on the opening day of women's basketball at the Olympics. "You just keep playing and good things will happen," said Hammon, who plays for the San Antonio Silver Stars. "Defensively we got a lot better in the fourth quarter. We got some deflections and were able to run." Hammon is playing in her second Olympics for Russia. She became a Russian naturalized citizen before the Beijing Games. Because she hadn't played for the United States in any major FIBA-sanctioned international events, she is allowed to compete for Russia in the Olympics. Her patriotism was questioned in 2008 when she played with Russia, which won the bronze medal. Hammon's second Olympics isn't drawing as much attention. She said there's not "so much hoopla around me and everyone's kind of settled in. Other girls are playing for other teams, so it's not so much focused on me." The 5-foot-6 Hammon came up big for Russia against Canada. Trailing 50-40 with 6 minutes left, Russia closed the game with an 18-3 run led by Hammon. Anna Petrakova (189-PF-84) hit a 3-pointer and a lay-in to get the spurt started. Then Hammon took over. After struggling in the first three quarters, she got going. "We found good balance only at the end and we went to our leader," Russia coach Boris Sokolvskiy said. "Becky understood that her 3-point shot was not good tonight so she went under the basket and created many opportunities for us." Her lay-in with 2:35 left tied the game at 50. She followed 30 seconds later with a basket that gave Russia its first lead since early in the opening quarter. Hammon then scored another lay-in that made it 54-51 with 1:06 left. She capped her own run with another layup. "I couldn't throw it in the ocean if I was sitting in a boat," said Hammon, who missed all five of her three-point attempts. "I just kept working and believing eventually the shots would fall. My teammates kept telling me to keep shooting." Canada couldn't make another basket the rest of the way and couldn't stop Hammon. "She's a great player, she's a clutch player and picked us a part in the first half," said Kimberley Smith (186-F-84, college: Utah), who led Canada with 20 points. "In the second half she took them on her back and made some really amazing finishes on her layups." Canada returned to the Olympics for the first time in 12 years after earning the final spot in the women's field. Despite the loss, the team wasn't discouraged. "Honestly we knew we were good coming in," Smith said. "We're a team that's under the radar, but we don't feel like we can't compete here. We're confident we can come into any game and compete." Canada, which will play Britain on Monday, qualified for the Olympics for the first time since 2000 after finishing fifth in the pre-Olympic qualifier earlier this month. Canada's roster is full of former and current U.S. college players. Courtney Pilypaitis starred for Vermont while Lizanne Murphy played at Hofstra. Natalie Achonwa has played in the last two Final Fours for Notre Dame. Russia is missing star center Maria Stepanova. The 6-foot-8 star, who has played in the last four Olympics, tore her anterior cruciate ligament at the Euroleague final eight in late March. The Russians will face Brazil on Monday. "We're a work in progress," Hammon said, "we still have a lot of room for growth." Courtesy of http://sports.yahoo.com

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POLAND

U18 France wins Preliminary Group A in Bucharest - by Eurobasket News

U18 POLAND - U18 FRANCE 50-65

France is the winner of Preliminary Group A in Bucharest and of course advanced to the next stage. They outplayed Poland for perfect 3-0 record at U18 EuroBasket. Poland finished as the last ranked team of this pool (0-3) and will be transferred to Group G (13th-16th place). There, Poland will fight for the survival and only the winner of this group will avoid relegation to Division B. France created 15-point lead at the beginning, but Poland closed the gap to 6 pts at the halftime. Third quarter was totally leveled (9-9) and France shined in the last ten minutes (20-11) to take the victory in this meeting. Mamignan Toure (179-SG-94) and Valeriane Ayayi (184-F-94) (5 rebs) stepped up for France with 14 and 13 points respectively. Marieme Badiane (190-F/C-94) also was great adding 9 points and 15 rebs. Actually, she was the MVP of this meeting with valuation 19. In Poland, Katarzyna Jaworska (188-F/C-94) had 8 points and 8 rebounds. Karolina Puss (182-SF-94), Magdalena Wojdalska (185-SG-94) and Angelika Stankiewicz (170-SG-95) posted 8 pts each. On Monday, France will play against Greece in the Qualifying Group E. Poland will meet Belgium in the first game of Group G.

Poland: Katarzyna Jaworska 8+8 boards, Karolina Puss 8, Magdalena Wojdalska 8, Angelika Stankiewicz 8
France: Mamignan Toure 14, Valeriane Ayayi 13+5 boards, Marieme Badiane 9+15 boards

Artego Bydgoszcz inks deal with Ewelina Gala - by Lukasz Lukaszewski

Artego Bydgoszcz is ready for the new season. Club management builds up roster. Ewelina Gala (186-F-90) is the last player who decided sign contract with Artego Bydgoszcz. After disappointing season (9th place in the league) there are a lot of changes in team.

Tomasz Herkt will be new head coach of the team. Club signed contracts with 5 new players: Justyna Jeziorna (173-G-81), Charity Szczechowiak (191-C-85, college: SF Austin), Olivia Tomialowicz (184-G-90), Julie McBride (165-G-82, college: Syracuse) and Kristen Morris (190-F-87, college: LSU). Ewelina Gala will sign contract in the next week after medical examinations. In addition to that Agnieszka Szott (185-F-82, agency: Data Plus Group) and Elzbieta Mowlik (180-F-83, agency: Data Plus Group) and some young players like Paulina Kuras (170-G-92) will stay in Artego Bydgoszcz for another season.

Ewelina Gala is 22 year old forward. She started her career in Widzew Lodz. But after that she moved to the Language School Pabianice. She made a debut in PLKK when she was 17. In 2008 she signed contract with Energa Torun. In this club she made a debut in EuroCup in 2009/2010 season.

In Jan10 she moved to the Basketball Investments Gdynia, where she had no luck. Ewelina Gala caught serious knee injuries and lost a lot of time for improvement her basketball skills. She left Gdynia in October11 and decided to sign contract with MKS Tecza Leszno. In 28 games for this team she averaged: 7, 6 point and 3, 7 rebound.

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RUSSIA

SPAIN

U18 Spain takes second place in Group A, U18 Sweden also advances - by Eurobasket News

U18 SPAIN - U18 SWEDEN 74-52

Spain outplayed Sweden 74-52 in a game for the second place of Group A. Spain finished as No.2 with 2-1 record, while Sweden dropped to third place with 1-2. Both teams advanced to the Qualifying Round (Group E). Maria Arrojo (186-F-85) (6 rebs) and Ariadna Pujol (182-F-95) (5 rebs, 5 as) scored 20 points each for the winners. Leticia Romero (177-G-95) added 11 points. At the other side, Paulina Hersler (190-PF-94) delivered 16 points for Sweden and Anita Ilic (169-PG-94) had 12. Linnea Frykbo (169-SG-94) topped to 8 pts. Spain made 11-point lead already in the first quarter. Sweden improved after that, but Spain blasted them after the breather (24-8) to secure comfortable win in this meeting. On Monday, Spain will meet Russia. Sweden's rival will be Turkey. Group E contains six teams, while only four will advance to the Quarterfinals.

Spain: Maria Arrojo 20+6 boards, Ariadna Pujol 20+5 boards+5 as, Leticia Romero 11
Sweden: Paulina Hersler 16, Anita Ilic 12, Linnea Frykbo 8

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SWEDEN

SWITZERLAND

TURKEY

UBA

KR (Iceland) ink WUBA MVP: Patechia Hartman - by David Walls

David Walls Reports:
July 29, 2012
ATLANTA, GA

Patechia Hartman (5'7''-G-83, agency: Gamble Sports Management, college: Georgia St.) is a new member of KR Reykjavik (Iceland). The 28-year-old American signed a deal until the end of April but will return for the 2012-13 WUBA season. She will help the team at guard position. Hartman played for the number two ranked GIE Lady Disciples (13-4) who shocked the WUBA with their championship run (WUBA champions). She averaged a league best 24.1ppg and 10.3 assists per game for the Lady Disciples.

Usbasket.com awarded Hartman for her great play by naming her All-WUBA Player of the Year and Rookie of the Year. She was also named a 2012 Usbasket.com All-United States 2nd Team voted by All USA Sports Reporters (along with all WNBA players).

In 2006 Hartman played for Szolnoki NKK (Hungary) and was named Eurobasket.com All- Hungarian League All-Imports Team. Prior to playing in Europe Hartman was invited to the WNBA draft camp and workouts with the Atlanta Dream.

Patechia and Armelie are our best two players in the WUBA, said league CEO Jerone Dodd. They are the best we have to offer; we expect nothing but All-Import honors from Patechia.

Hartman attend Georgia State University from 2001-2005. She was named All-CAA Player of the Year twice averaging a league best 19.2ppg. As a senior Hartman was voted Associated Press NCAA All-America 3rd Team, Frances Pomeroy Naismith Award Nominee and Kodak All-American Nominee.

WUBA Playoff 1st Round: Disciples and Dragons will face off in semi finals - by David Walls

GIE Morrow D. Metro Atlanta S. 80-65
Patechia Hartman (5'7''-G-83, agency: Gamble Sports Management, college: Georgia St.) had 24 points and 9 assists, and Leanne Watson (5'11''-F-89, college: Newberry) added 22 points and 9 rebounds as the Lady Generals roll over the Sparks 80-65. After the all-star break Hartman continues her great play averaging 24.2ppg and 9.0 assists (since the break). She continues to make her teammate play at a high level and look to be peeking at the right time. Latonda Bruce (5'8''-G-89, college: Clayton St.) added 18 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists. Treasure Johnson (6'0''-G/F, college: NC-Wilmington) was the only bright spot for the Sparks with a team high 22 points and 8 rebounds in a losing effort.

Hartman has another great game coming off the biggest honor of her career. Friday morning Hartman was named 2011-2012 All-United States Awards (Voted by All USA Sports Reporters) 2nd Team -12. This is such an huge honor seeing that Every player on this list played in the WNBA. She has just one more game to make it the WUBA finals vs. their heated rival Southern Generals.

Tennessee D. Atlanta A. 65-57
Angelique Burtts (6'0''-F-88, college: Georgia St.) 16 had a team-high 18 points and 9 rebounds as the Lady Dragons routed the Assault 65-57 on Sunday night. Ashley Haynes (5'9''-G/F-84, college: Austin Peay St.) had 23 points for the Assault. Azzie Knox (5'11''-G/F-85, college: Rogers St.) added 16 points and 10 rebounds in a losing effort. The Lady Dragons will face the Lady Disciples in the semi finals to see who will face the WUBA power Lady Generals.

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UKRAINE

UNITED KINGDOM

WBCBL

2012 WBCBL National Tournament - August 3-5th - by Willie McCray

The Miami Rain will host the WBCBL Nationals on August 03-05, 2012 (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday). All games will be played at the beautiful Shula Athletic Club at 15150 Bull Run Road in Miami Lakes, Florida .

General Info:
* 2012 WBCBL National Tournament "Miami FL" August 03- 05
* Single Elimination
* Game time begins: 8am, August 4th (Saturday)

Hotel Information:
Noelia Trana
P: 305.820.8055

Note: This is the 8th annual WBCBL national tournament, featuring women semi-pro teams from across the United States.

Event Location History:
2011 - Oglethorpe University - Atlanta, GA
2010 - Florida Memorial University - Miami, FL
2009 - Jefferson High School - Tampa, FL
2008 - Williamson High School - Mobile, AL
2007 - Mitchell High School - Memphis, TN
2006 - Ben Hill Recreation Center - Atlanta, GA
2005 - Cedar Crest Salvation Army - Dallas, TX

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WNBA