EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 7/3/2012 1:04:01 AM

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Men News

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  ADRIATIC LEAGUE   



Igokea gets bigger with Corsley Edwards - by Eurobasket News

Corsley Edwards (205-C/F-79, agency: Prossin Sports Management, college: Cent.Conn.St.) will continue his career in Bosnia. The American power forward/center penned a deal with Igokea. They will compete in Adriatic and Bosnian league next season. Edwards arrives to the club from Anwil Wloclawek, where he spent 2011/12. He appeared 35 times in PLK averaging 14.7 points and 5.8 rebounds. For his performance Edwards was awarded with Eurobasket.com Polish League All-Imports Team -12 and also Eurobasket.com All-Polish League 2nd Team -12. He was MVP of the PLK All-Star Game.
Corsley Edwards already has experience from Adriatic league as he played for Cedevita in 2010/11 season. He shined with 17.5 ppg and 5.4 rpg for them in 21 regional league games. They reached EuroCup Semifinals and Croatian league Finals together. In the past, Edwards played in Puerto Rico, Egypt, China, UAE, NBA D-League, Spain etc.


Igokea keeps Brkic, Joksimovic and Sulovic - by Eurobasket News

Igokea announced signing of Marko Brkic (206-FC-82, agency: Beo Basket), Nebojsa Joksimovic (191-SF-81) and Nenad Sulovic (202-C-85) for the next season.
Marko Brkic played 31 games in Bosnia averaging 8.8 points, 3.4 rebounds and 2.1 steals. He joined the club last summer from PGE Turow Zgorzelec. Before that, he played for Radnicki Kragujevac, Anwil and Polpak. Brkic already was a member of Igokea in 2006/07 season.
Nebojsa Joksimovic will play his third straight season with Igokea. He joined them in 2010 from Scavolini Pesaro. Joksimovic had 8.7 ppg, 2.9 apg, 2.5 spg and 2.3 rpg for 31 games last season.
Nenad Sulovic had 9.8 ppg, 5.2 rpg, 2.6 spg and 2.2 apg in 34 games last season. He signed with the club a year ago. Sulovic split 2010/11 season between Napredak Krusevac and Radnicki Kragujevac.


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  ANGOLA   


Olympic Qualifying Tournament: Angola take care of FYR Macedonia - by Eurobasket News

Angola - FYR Macedonia 88:84

Angola opened their Olympic Qualifying Tournament campaign with victory. They held off FYR Macedonia in the first game in Group D in Caracas. Eduardo Mingas (200-F-79) scored 24 points to lead the African powerhouse.
Angola surprised the European team with 32 points in the first quarter to take an 11-point lead. Angola maintained the advantage throughout the second quarter. They established a 53:40 halftime lead. The teams exchanged baskets throughout the third quarter as Angola secured a 13-point lead before the fourth frame. FYR Macedonia went on a desperate rescue rally in the final term cutting the deficit to minimum but Angola withstood the threat and eked out victory at the end. Olimpio Cipriano (194-F-82) posted 23 points, while Carlos Morais (190-G-85) added 18 points in the win. Bo McCalebb (183-PG-85, college: New Orleans) answered with 21 points for FYR Macedonia. Pero Antic (210-F-82, agency: Beo Basket) finished with 17 points in the loss.

Angola: Eduardo Mingas 24, Olimpio Cipriano 23, Carlos Morais 18
FYR Macedonia: Bo McCalebb 21, Pero Antic 17


Roberto Fortes Ousted From Basketball Team - by Eurobasket News

Luanda The player with Petro de Luanda Roberto Fortes (193-G-84, college: Illinois St.) was dropped out from the Angolan national senior males basketball team that will start on Friday competing in the pre-Olympics tournament, qualifying for London2012 Games.

The 27-year old player was dropped out by coach Jos Carlos in favour of Paulo Barros.

Angola will play Macedonia on Monday for group D's first round.
Courtesy of: Angola Press


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  ARAB CLUB CHAMPIONSHIPS   

Standings

ZA Standings
 1. Ahli Benghazi 4-0 
 2. JS Kairouan 3-1 
 3. ASC Bizerte 2-2 
 4. Al Shurtah 1-3 
 5. Al Ahli 0-4 

Preliminary Round: Round 5

Jun. 30: JS Kairouan - Ahli Benghazi 63-76
Jun. 30: Al Ahli - Al Shurtah 60-76


Ahli Benghazi wins Arabian Clubs Basketball Championship 2012 - by Eurobasket News

Ahli Benghazi wins Arabian Clubs Basketball Championship 2012 with 5 participating teams. The team from Libya won all four games and clinched the title.
In Day 1 Ahli Benghazi overcame Al Shorta from Iraq 84:71. The latter grabbed 19-16 after the first period but the favorites took 39:30 halftime advantage. Moreover they increased to 62:43 after three quarters and won the game by 13 points.
In Day 2 Ahli Benghazi edged AL- aseema from Yemen 93:47. The team from Libya won the first period 21-9 and then did not allow the opponents to score in the second frame at all. They had 64:23 at the end of the third quarter and celebrated the easy win.
In Day 3 Ahli Benghazi thumb C.A.Bizerte from Tunisia 85:72. Ahli started with 29-11 but could not keep the big lead. They led 70:47 with 10 minutes remaining, but allowed the team from Tunisia to cut it to 13.
In the last day of the competition Ahli Benghazi overcame J.S.Kairaoun from Tunisia 76:63. The squad from Libya started with 19-11 lead and then had 38:26 at the halftime. J.S.Kairaoun reduced to 5 points entering the last period, but could not win the game.


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  ARGENTINA   


Argentina topple Uruguay in Rosario - by Eurobasket News

Argentina - Uruguay 78:57

Argentina claimed a confident win over Uruguay in a friendly encounter in Rosario. Nicolas Laprovittola (188-PG-90), Leonardo Gutierrez (200-F-78) and Andres Nocioni (199-F-79) scored 12 points each to lead the hosts.
Uruguay led by a single point ten minutes into the game 23:22. But Argentina stiffened their defence and held the visitors to 10 points in the second quarter. Argentina pulled ahead for a 39:33 halftime advantage. The hosts stretched the lead in the third quarter. They accumulated a 57:46 advantage with one quarter remaining. Argentina did not slow down in the fourth period and raced to the victory at the end. Marcos Mata finished with 8 points for the winners. Bruno Fitipaldo (183-PG-91) answered with 15 points for Uruguay. Sebastian Izaguirre (207-C/F-85) had 11 points in the losing effort.

Argentina: Nicolas Laprovittola 12, Leonardo Gutierrez 12, Andres Nocioni 12
Uruguay: Bruno Fitipaldo 15, Sebastian Izaguirre 11


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  AUSTRALIA   

Standings - ABA

State Standings
Big V
 1. Ringwood H. 12-3 
 2. Corio Bay 11-5 
 3. Eltham W. 10-5 
 4. Waverley F. 9-7 
 5. Hume City 9-7 
 6. Diamond V.E. 6-9 
 7. Bulleen B. 5-11 
 8. Sherbrooke S. 5-11 
 9. Melbourne 3-12 
Central ABL
 1. Sturt S. 10-3 
 2. N.Adelaide R. 9-3 
 3. Forestville E. 9-4 
 4. W.Adelaide B. 9-4 
 5. Woodville W. 7-5 
 6. Norwood F. 7-6 
 7. C.District L. 5-8 
 8. Southern T. 4-9 
 9. S.Adelaide P. 4-9 
 10. Eastern M. 0-13 
QBL
 1. Northside W. 6-1 
 2. Ipswich F. 6-2 
 3. Rockhampton 5-0 
 4. Mackay M. 5-1 
 5. SW Metro P. 4-3 
 6. Townsville H. 4-4 
 7. Cairns M. 4-4 
 8. Brisbane C. 4-5 
 9. Gladstone P. 3-5 
 10. Bundaberg B. 3-6 
 11. Gold Coast R. 2-5 
 12. Maroochydore 2-6 
 13. Toowoomba 1-7 
SBL
 1. Lakeside L. 17-2 
 2. Wanneroo W. 17-2 
 3. Cockburn C. 14-6 
 4. Mandurah M. 12-7 
 5. Perth R. 12-8 
 6. East Perth E. 11-9 
 7. Willetton T. 10-10 
 8. Perry Lakes H. 9-10 
 9. Goldfield G. 8-12 
 10. Kalamunda E.S. 7-12 
 11. Stirling S. 7-12 
 12. Geraldton B. 7-13 
 13. SW Slammers 3-16 
 14. Rockingham F. 2-17 
SEABL-East
 1. Dandenong 16-4 
 2. Geelong S. 16-4 
 3. Bendigo B. 12-8 
 4. Sandringham S. 11-10 
 5. Frankston B. 9-10 
 6. Brisbane S. 7-12 
 7. Canberra G. 1-19 
SEABL-South
 1. Knox R. 11-7 
 2. Nunawading S. 11-8 
 3. Hobart C. 11-9 
 4. Albury W.B. 10-9 
 5. Ballarat M. 9-10 
 6. Kilsyth C. 9-10 
 7. NW Tasmania 8-11 
 8. Mt Gambier 5-15 
WARATAH
 1. Newcastle H. 11-2 
 2. Norths Bears 11-3 
 3. Maitland M. 9-6 
 4. Illawarra H. 9-7 
 5. Cent.Coast C. 9-8 
 6. Manly Warr. 8-6 
 7. Sydney C. 7-6 
 8. Bankstown B. 6-7 
 9. Hills H. 6-8 
 10. Parramatta W. 3-10 
 11. Colonial Hotel 3-11 
 12. Sutherland S. 3-11 

Regular Season: Round 14

BIG V

Jun. 30: Bulleen B. - Hume City 87-82
Jul. 1: Hume City - Diamond V.E. 82-74
Jun. 30: Eltham W. - Ringwood H. 81-94
Jun. 30: Sherbrooke S. - Melbourne 75-66
Jul. 1: Waverley F. - Corio Bay 66-83

Central ABL

Jun. 30: Southern T. - Eastern M. 99-91
Jun. 30: Sturt S. - N.Adelaide R. 84-75
Jun. 30: Woodville W. - C.District L. 84-60
Jun. 30: S.Adelaide P. - Norwood F. 83-99
Jun. 30: W.Adelaide B. - Forestville E. 67-79

QBL

Jun. 29: Mackay M. - Gold Coast R. 94-70
Jun. 30: Rockhampton - Gold Coast R. 92-69
Jun. 29: Brisbane C. - Maroochydore 88-71
Jun. 30: Ipswich F. - Toowoomba 80-75
Jul. 1: Townsville H. - Gladstone P. 74-77
Jun. 30: Maroochydore - SW Metro P. 71-66
Jun. 30: Bundaberg B. - Northside W. 65-78
Jun. 30: Cairns M. - Gladstone P. 106-67

SEABL

Jun. 30: Brisbane S. - Canberra G. 93-62
Jun. 29: Hobart C. - Albury W.B. 92-87
Jun. 29: Geelong S. - Canberra G. 89-39
Jun. 30: Ballarat M. - Sandringham S. 88-65
Jul. 1: Sandringham S. - Mt Gambier 80-86
Jun. 30: NW Tasmania - Albury W.B. 77-96
Jun. 30: Dandenong - Kilsyth C. 73-90
Jun. 30: Bendigo B. - Frankston B. 72-64
Jun. 29: Mt Gambier - Dandenong 70-87
Jul. 1: Knox R. - Ballarat M. 106-93
Jul. 1: Nunawading S. - Bendigo B. 105-95

WARATAH

Jun. 30: Bankstown B. - Hills H. 97-86
Jun. 30: Illawarra H. - Parramatta W. 94-79
Jul. 1: Colonial Hotel - Maitland M. 80-93
Jun. 30: Cent.Coast C. - Sutherland S. 77-72
Jul. 1: Cent.Coast C. - Norths Bears 70-90
Jun. 30: Newcastle H. - Maitland M. 67-60
Jun. 30: Sydney C. - Manly Warr. 65-78

Regular Season: Round 15

BIG V

Jul. 7: Diamond V.E. - Waverley F.
Jul. 7: Ringwood H. - Sherbrooke S.
Jul. 7: Melbourne - Bulleen B.
Jul. 8: Ringwood H. - Hume City
Jul. 8: Eltham W. - Corio Bay

Central ABL

Jul. 6: Woodville W. - N.Adelaide R.
Jul. 7: N.Adelaide R. - Woodville W.
Jul. 7: Norwood F. - Eastern M.
Jul. 7: Southern T. - Sturt S.
Jul. 7: C.District L. - W.Adelaide B.
Jul. 7: Forestville E. - S.Adelaide P.

QBL

Jul. 6: Brisbane C. - Mackay M.
Jul. 7: Ipswich F. - Northside W.
Jul. 7: Gold Coast R. - Townsville H.
Jul. 7: Toowoomba - SW Metro P.
Jul. 7: Rockhampton - Cairns M.
Jul. 7: Maroochydore - Mackay M.
Jul. 8: SW Metro P. - Townsville H.
Jul. 8: Northside W. - Mackay M.
Jul. 8: Gladstone P. - Cairns M.

SEABL

Jul. 5: Dandenong - Frankston B.
Jul. 6: Brisbane S. - Hobart C.
Jul. 7: Brisbane S. - Dandenong
Jul. 7: Canberra G. - Hobart C.
Jul. 7: Frankston B. - Albury W.B.
Jul. 7: Sandringham S. - Bendigo B.
Jul. 6: Mt Gambier - NW Tasmania
Jul. 7: Ballarat M. - Geelong S.
Jul. 7: Kilsyth C. - NW Tasmania
Jul. 7: Nunawading S. - Knox R.
Jul. 8: Knox R. - NW Tasmania
Jul. 8: Albury W.B. - Canberra G.

WARATAH

Jul. 7: Sydney C. - Colonial Hotel
Jul. 7: Sutherland S. - Newcastle H.
Jul. 7: Manly Warr. - Cent.Coast C.
Jul. 7: Illawarra H. - Hills H.
Jul. 7: Norths Bears - Bankstown B.
Jul. 8: Colonial Hotel - Bankstown B.
Jul. 8: Maitland M. - Norths Bears


QBL: Weekend Wrap-Up: Round 7 - by Eurobasket News

Mackay Meteors 94 def Gold Coast Rollers 70
Mackays Braydon Hobbs started the game with a bang, sinking a three-pointer in the first 30 seconds of the match, which set the pace for the rest of the game. The Meteors didnt allow the Rollers a chance at the lead throughout the match, maintaining a double-point buffer to eventually win by 24 points. Michael Cedar (190-G-86) top-scored for the Meteors with 23, with Michael Kingma hitting 22 points, Willard Johnson was Gold Coasts best with 13 points.

Brisbane Capitals 88 def Maroochydore Clippers 71
The Clippers grabbed an early lead to go into the first break two points up. Jarred Bairstow started to turn things around for Brisbane early in the second quarter with a three-pointer to square the scores, and from then on the Capitals held the lead. Joel Ryman hit a huge 30 points including three three-pointers just before halftime to push Brisbanes lead to 12 points at the main break and to set them up to control the rest of the match. Malakai Mitchell (195-G/F-83) top-scored for Maroochy with 15 points.

Ipswich Force 80 def Toowoomba 75
This was a tight match with the lead changing hands a number of times throughout the first half, with the Force going into halftime just one point in front. The Mountaineers snatched back the lead briefly early in the third quarter, but Ipswich again came back to go into the final break three points in front. The fourth quarter saw the Force take control to maintain their lead and take the match, despite a consistent fight-back from Toowoomba. Shaun Gleeson (189-G-86) was Ipswichs best with 30 points while Chad Wynn was strong for the Mountaineers with 22 points and 16 rebounds.

Cairns Marlins 106 def Gladstone Power 67
The mens match didnt disappoint Cairns basketball fans, with star Nathan Jawai taking to his home court fresh from European league and NBA duties. Jawais physical presence was a welcome boost under the basket for the Marlins, who lead the Power by 30 points at the half-time break. The Cairns side held their dominance for the last half to take out the match by 39 points. Aaron Grabau put up 30 points for the Marlins with Dwayne Vale (194-F/G-85) shooting 23, while Gladstones Kevin Gaines contributed 17 points.

Bundaberg Bulls 65 def by Northside Wizards 78
This was an incredibly close match with the scores tied on 17 at the end of the first quarter, with Bundaberg managing to build an eight-point lead in the second quarter, before Northside pulled them back to be just one point behind at halftime. In the third quarter the Wizards put the pressure on and grabbed the lead, and managed to hold out the Bulls through the final stages of the match to take the win on the road. Zac Carter put up 19 points for Northside while Willie Shackleford and Rodrick Stewart (193-G-84, college: Kansas) did the bulk of the shooting for the Bulls with 25 and 20 points respectively.

Rockhampton Rockets 92 def Gold Coast Rollers 69
The mens match saw a similar result with the Rockets grabbing the lead early and holding on to it for the rest of the game, to continue their unbeaten run in the league. The Gold Coast lost Scott McGregor to injury early during the second quarter, hampering their chances of a comeback. Mitch Philp was a standout for Rocky with 24 points and 12 assists, with fellow Rocket Travis Reed putting up 22 points, while Jason Aucoin (200-F/C-81) shot 23 points for the Rollers.

Maroochydore Clippers 71 def South West Metro Pirates 66
The Clippers put on a huge comeback to take out this match, with the Pirates taking the lead less than two minutes into the game, and pushing it out to double-figures throughout the second quarter. Maroochydore brought the margin back to single-digits towards the end of the third quarter, but it still looked as though the Pirates had control. But with three and a half minutes left in the match combined efforts from player/coach Gianni Constantiello, Malakai Mitchell and Zeke Meehl saw the Clippers steal the win to make it a double-win for the Maroochy teams. Duncan Matheson shot 17 points for the Clippers while Nathan Niesler top-scored for the Pirates with 16.

Townsville Heat 74 def by Gladstone Power 77
The mens game saw a much closer contest, with Gladstone holding the lead by just a couple of points throughout much of the match. Townsville brought the deficit back to be one point behind with just over a minute left in the match, thanks to a three-pointer from Mitch Norton, before Todd Blanchfield put the home-side in front by one point with just 30 seconds left on the clock. The Heat held the game in their hands until two fouls sent Gladstones Zach Silverman (198-SF-88, agency: Gross Zeev ISA, college: Iowa Wesleyan) to the line twice, where he sunk all four of his free throws, to steal the match back for the Power by three points.
Courtesy of: http://qbl.basketball.net.au


Big V: Weekend Wrap- Round 14 - by Eurobasket News

Ringwood wins again as the Wildcats drop to third, the Stingrays jump to second, the Broncos keep their finals hopes alive and the Eagles continue to dive, while down at Waverley its hard to work out whats going on!
SCM ROUND UP
ROUND 14
Lets start with Sherbrooke and Melbourne where the re-sult had no bearing either way on this years playoffs, but it did signal an opportunity for both teams to secure a badly needed win. The home team came out with the win thanks largely to a quick 24-14 start, along with another solid out-ing from Nathan Truman (187-G-82) (19pts). In a low-scoring game Melbournes best included Andrew Morris (193-G, college: Coker) (18pts, 13rbs) and Craig Martin (17pts, 11rbs).
Billed as the game of the round, Eltham hosted Ringwood in a top-of-the-ladder clash and, despite having the recent wood on the Hawks, the Wildcats simply could not dent what is a super-tough Ringwood arsenal charging towards a championship. A 21-11 last quarter sealed the win, Adrien Sturt (20pts) hurt his former team, Sam Belt (20pts, 10rbs, 4 treys) was in top touch, while Matt Snowballs (11pts, 11ass) ability to control the floor was a highlight. With the loss came a drop to third on the ladder for the home team, while the Hawks chalked up win number eight in a row and look a clear level above all comers.
Hume City faced a massive weekend with two games and things didnt start too well on Saturday night when the travelling Broncos went down to Bulleen and Corey Standerfer (33pts). It was another good win by the Boom-ers in what has been an inconsistent season, but they con-tinue to be a team that cannot be taken lightly. Alex Bogart-King (20pts) and Jamal Brown (19pts, 12rbs) were Hume Citys best on a night that saw Jermaine Maybank (6pts) well held.
www.bigv.com.au
Needing a win to stay in the finals hunt the Broncos bounced back on Sunday against Diamond Valley, signal-ling a sixth straight loss for the Eagles in what has been a horror stretch for a team that actually sat on top of the ladder earlier this season. The Broncos set up the win with strong middle quarters and Maybanks (29pts, 5 treys) return to form was most timely, along with another dou-ble-double by Brown (16pts, 15rbs). Best for the Eagles were Adam Moore (198-F-77, college: IPFW) (20pts) and Brad Bridgewater (13pts, 15rbs).
The hotly anticipated showdown between Waverley and Corio Bay kept us entertained on Sunday afternoon and not surprisingly it was the in-form Stingrays taking the win against a wildly inconsistent Waverley. All is not well with the Falcons just now and they just cant find the magic that has propelled them to the last two championships and time is starting to run thin. The Stingrays opened with a 46-29 first half in this one and didnt look back after the break, scoring their first win against the Falcons and mov-ing to second on the ladder as a result. E-Will (26pts, 18rbs) and Jason Reardon (189-G-83) (18pts, 11rbs) were out-standing, while Ivan Platenik (201-F-83, college: Alaska-Anch.) (20pts) did his bit for the underperforming (and now clinging to fourth place) Fal-cons.
ROUND 14 RESULTS
Sherbrooke 75 defeated Melbourne 66 Corio Bay 83 defeated Waverley 66 Ringwood 94 defeated Eltham 81 Hume City 82 defeated Diamond Valley74 Bulleen 87 defeated Hume City 82
Take a look at the ladder and youll quickly discover that the only consistent teams are Ringwood and Corio Bay. As for the rest, not one team can boast two or more wins in a row just now.
Hard to believe people questioned Corio Bays position in SCM without giving them a chance, hence the silence that now surrounds us! The Stingrays have won seven straight and sit in second place. Surely the critics are prepared to eat some humble pie, arent they?
Courtesy of: bigv.com.au


Wilkinson signs with Estonian club - by Hugh McAuliffe

Two-time ANBL championship winner Gary Wilkinson (204-F/C-82, college: Utah St.) appears set to miss the New Zealand Breakers tilt at a three-peat after he reportedly signed in Estonia with local champions BC Kalev/Cramo. Wilkinson played with Puerto Rican club Vaqueros de Bayamon in the 2012 BSN season and in 16 games averaged 16 points and 6 rebounds per game.

Wilkinson was a member of the All-NBL Second Team last season and a key part of the Breakers second successive title win.

Despite this, the club was reportedly keen to develop young local centre Alex Pledger which would have resigned Wilkinson to a reduced role off the bench in season 2012/13.

In April Wilkinson made it clear he knew the clubs priority lay with Pledger.

"Obviously I've got a lot of years playing in me and if they see Chief [Pledger] as their future then we just have to see how that is going to work. I am more than happy to watch Chief flourish because he deserves it, he said.

"I would love to have a three-peat, but it's a matter of where the organisation is headed and where I fit into the whole scheme of things. With the Chief making huge strides, I would bank on him in the future."


SBL: Giants reign supreme in regional showdown (Round 16 men's wrap) - by Eurobasket News

The Goldfields Giants have kept their finals hopes alive and all but ended those of their regional rivals Geraldton Buccaneers in a crushing 94-83 win in Kalgoorlie on Saturday night.

American guard Ty Harrelson (192-G-80, college: Wayland Baptist) dominated for the Giants with 32 points and 11 rebounds while the Buccs were led by junior Aaron Ralph (22 points) and import Morgan Sabia (20 points).

Top of the ladder Lakeside Lightening secured its sixth consecutive win after taking down cross town rivals the Willetton Tigers 103-75, young guard Brad Jackson led the way with 28 points.

Defending champions, the Wanneroo Wolves extended their winning streak to twelve after smashing the South West Slammers in Eaton 105-75 on Saturday night.

Veteran Damian Matacz continued his strong form with 29 points while Wanneroo product and Wildcats player Greg Hire (198-F-87, college: Augusta St.) chipped in with 16 points and 18 rebounds.

Adrian Majstrovich returned with 35 points for the Perth Redbacks after a lengthy spell with injury, however the East Perth Eagles upset the Redbacks 113-100, both teams now sit just outside the top four with a 9-7 record.

Stirling Senators had a devastating weekend, losses to Mandurah Magic and Cockburn Cougars leaves their finals hopes all but over, they now sit 7-14 and are three games away from eighth place.

The Senators fell just short in overtime on Friday against the Magic going down 113-108, import Taylor Mullenax was the star for the Magic with 30 points and 17 rebounds while veteran Aaron Trahair (194-G-76) had 28 points.

The Cougars then smashed the Senators 113-80 on Saturday with five Cougars players scoring in double figures, led by Jeremiah Wilson (203-F-87, college: Tarleton St.) (23), Brian Carlwell (21), Sheldon McIntyre (19), Damien Scott (16) and Gavin Field (10).

Rockingham Flames had a tough weekend that saw their losing streak stretch to twelve after going down to Kalamunda Eastern Suns 126-97 on Friday and 130-99 to Perry Lakes Hawks on Saturday.

Kalamunda continued their revival on the back of 27 points from Greg Palmer and double-doubles from Lee Roberts (19 points, 19 rebounds), Justin Brown (14 points, 13 rebounds) and Franich Nebojsha (201-C-91) (12 points, 12 rebounds).

The Hawks, in the absence of Ben Purser, were led by imports Shane Ross (35 points, 20 rebounds) and Matthew Rosinski (32 points, 7 rebounds, 7 assists) while youngster Josh Garlepp (18 points, 14 rebounds) chipped in.

Article by Hannah Coleman
Courtesy of: SBL


SBL: Giants end Buccs play-off dreams - by Eurobasket News

For a second consecutive year the Geraldton Buccaneers are set to finish their season earlier then expected.

The Goldfields Giants all but ended the playoff hopes of the Buccs on Saturday night with a 94-83 win on their home court in Kalgoorlie.

Geraldton are in 11th position on the ladder, three games back of Willetton who occupies the final playoff spot.

The Buccs have five more games remaining this season and will need to win them all to have any chance of avoiding an early finish to the season.

If they are unsuccessful, it will be the first time in the clubs history that they have missed the finals series in consecutive seasons.

Ty Harrelson kick started the Buccaneers downfall with a game-high 32 points to go with 11 rebounds and eight assists.

He was given plenty of support from the likes of Russell Hurst (200-F/C-85) with 17 points.

For Geraldton, Aaron Ralph (198-G/F-89) netted 22 points and secured seven rebounds while Morgan Sabia scored 20 points and recorded 10 rebounds.

The Giants grabbed an edge in rebounding and free throws throughout the game.

Goldfields out rebounded their opponents 50-30 and took 25 shots from the free throw line compared to the Buccs 14.

Geraldton looked set for a big game early on when they took an early 29-26 quarter time lead behind some hot shooting from three-point land.

That all went to waste in the second period as the Giants began to convert on the scoreboard.

Goldfields made three of their five three point attempts to lead 55-46 at half time.

A scrappy third quarter saw the Buccs narrow the gap by a small margin, outscoring the home team 14-12.

With just a seven-point deficit to close heading into the last quarter, the Buccs could never quite slow down the Giants for long enough to get close.

The visitors watched on as the Giants found their offence again and pushed away to claim their ninth win of the year.

Article by Taylor Courtland (Geraldton Guardian)


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  AZERBAIJAN   


Azerbaijan gain second win in Turkey - by Eurobasket News

Azerbaijan continue their training camp in Turkey. Elhan Aliyev team played the second friendly encounter. They faced one of the students teams and claimed a 91:68 victory at the end. Azerbaijan led from start to finish and earned a well-deserved victory at the end. Tahir Bakhshiyev (200-F-82) came up with 19 points to lead the winners.
Azerbaijan defeated Algeria 73:70 in the opening friendly game in Turkey.


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  BAHRAIN   

Standings

Premier Standings
Top4
 1. Muharraq 4-1 
 2. Al Ahli 3-2 
 3. Al Manama 3-3 
 4. Sitra 1-5 
Places 5-11
 1. Al Hala 13-7 
 2. Issa Town 12-8 
 3. Nuwaidrat 9-10 
 4. Al Ittihad 9-10 
 5. Bahrain Club 3-17 
 6. Al Najma 2-18 
 7. Samaheej 1-19 
Stage Two Standings

Top 4: Round 6

Jul. 2: Al Manama - Sitra 95-67
Jul. 2: Muharraq - Al Ahli



*****************************************************
  BOSNIA   


Slovenia and Bosnia and Herzegovina trade victories - by Eurobasket News

Slovenian and Bosnian U16 National Team exchanged victories in friendly series in Slovenj Gradec.
The hosts claimed a 57:50 win in Game 1. Trailing by four points after the opening quarter Slovenia picked up the tempo in the next periods and rolled to a 45:36 lead at the final break. They held off Bosnia and Herzegovina in the final quarter and earned a tough win at the end. Matej Kavas (193-G-96) came up with 18 points for Slovenia. Tilen Kodrin (202-SF-96) added 12 points for the winners.
Next game had a different scenario. The visitors surged ahead for a 25:15 lead ten minutes into the game. Slovenia narrowed the deficit at 5-point mark at the interval. But Bosnia and Herzegovina regained control in the second half and rolled to the 75:67 win at the end. Balic chipped in 18 points for Bosnia and Herzegovina. Djorde Aleksic (184-SG-96) added 13 points for the winning team. Matej Kavas answered with 23 points for Slovenia. Sajevic had 9 points in the loss.


Igokea gets bigger with Corsley Edwards - by Eurobasket News

Corsley Edwards (205-C/F-79, agency: Prossin Sports Management, college: Cent.Conn.St.) will continue his career in Bosnia. The American power forward/center penned a deal with Igokea. They will compete in Adriatic and Bosnian league next season. Edwards arrives to the club from Anwil Wloclawek, where he spent 2011/12. He appeared 35 times in PLK averaging 14.7 points and 5.8 rebounds. For his performance Edwards was awarded with Eurobasket.com Polish League All-Imports Team -12 and also Eurobasket.com All-Polish League 2nd Team -12. He was MVP of the PLK All-Star Game.
Corsley Edwards already has experience from Adriatic league as he played for Cedevita in 2010/11 season. He shined with 17.5 ppg and 5.4 rpg for them in 21 regional league games. They reached EuroCup Semifinals and Croatian league Finals together. In the past, Edwards played in Puerto Rico, Egypt, China, UAE, NBA D-League, Spain etc.


Igokea keeps Brkic, Joksimovic and Sulovic - by Eurobasket News

Igokea announced signing of Marko Brkic (206-FC-82, agency: Beo Basket), Nebojsa Joksimovic (191-SF-81) and Nenad Sulovic (202-C-85) for the next season.
Marko Brkic played 31 games in Bosnia averaging 8.8 points, 3.4 rebounds and 2.1 steals. He joined the club last summer from PGE Turow Zgorzelec. Before that, he played for Radnicki Kragujevac, Anwil and Polpak. Brkic already was a member of Igokea in 2006/07 season.
Nebojsa Joksimovic will play his third straight season with Igokea. He joined them in 2010 from Scavolini Pesaro. Joksimovic had 8.7 ppg, 2.9 apg, 2.5 spg and 2.3 rpg for 31 games last season.
Nenad Sulovic had 9.8 ppg, 5.2 rpg, 2.6 spg and 2.2 apg in 34 games last season. He signed with the club a year ago. Sulovic split 2010/11 season between Napredak Krusevac and Radnicki Kragujevac.


*****************************************************
  BRAZIL   


Ralfi Ansaloni goes to Minas - by Paulo Freire

The big man Ralfi Ansaloni (211-C-87) is heading to Minas to play the next 2012-2013 season

With 24 years old and 2.11cm heigh, Ansaloni was playing in Rio Claro where he played 19 game and averages 13.7 points, 6.5 rebounds, 1.2 assists and 0.9 recovered ball as he saw 26.2 minutes on the floor.

Before playing for Rio Claro team, the player was in the Sorocaba team for NBB. The player also had spend time in the Uberlandia and Vila Velha team.


Scott Machado To Play For Houston Rockets - by Paulo Freire

Former Iona guard the brazilian Scott Machado (185-G-90) will play for the Houston Rockets' summer league team.

Machado surprisingly went undrafted in last week's 2012 NBA Draft after leading all of NCAA Division I with 9.9 assists per game as a senior at Iona. The 6-foot-1 point guard added 13.6 points while leading Iona's high-paced offense. He was hurt during the draft process by an inability to stand out in individual workout settings, but still drew plenty of interest after the draft from teams looking to add a playmaker.

Machado will now have to earn his spot in the NBA the hard way, as an undrafted free agent. He should have plenty of opportunities to rack up assists while playing for the Rockets' Summer League team, which is also expected to feature first-round draft choices Jeremy Lamb, Royce White and Terrence Jones.


Limeira sign Fernando Alvim, Hubner and Leandro - by Paulo Freire

The Limeira basketball team has found a new sponsor, therefore the team start working on their roster for the 2012-2013 season.
The managers first renew the contract of Diego Pinheiro (195-F/G-80), Ronald Ramon (185-G-86, college: Pittsburgh), Daniel Castellar (202-C-83) and the young players Deryk Ramos (185-G-94), Matheus Pereira (201-C-95) and Du Sommer.
The team also sign a few new players Fernando Alvim (200-F-80), who is back to the team for his second time, and two players coming from Minas, center Guilherme Hubner (209-C-87) and forward Leandro Da Silva (203-F/C-81)


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


Yambol land Plamen Aleksiev - by Eurobasket News

Yambol strengthened their backcourt. They agreed on terms of contract with Plamen Aleksiev (180-G-87). The guard spent the last two seasons with Cherno More. He averaged 7.3 points, 4.3 assists, 1.7 rebounds and 1.3 steals per game last season. Previously Plamen Aleksiev played for Chernomorets and Cherno More. The guard was the member of Bulgarian National Team in 2005 and 2011 seasons.


*****************************************************
  CANADA   


Report: Nash has $36M offer from Raptors - by Eurobasket News

According to an ESPN report, Steve Nash (6'3''-PG-74, college: Santa Clara) met with representatives from the Toronto Raptors and New York Knicks on Sunday, the first day of NBA free agency, and the Raptors offered the 38-year-old point guard a three-year, $36 million deal.

The report also said Nash will meet Monday with the Brooklyn Nets, who are still attempting to re-sign unrestricted-free-agent point guard Deron Williams but might view Nash as a possible replacement if Williams signs elsewhere.

Nash made $12 million last season and has made it known that he is looking for a three-year deal, which the Raptors and GM Bryan Colangelo apparently agreed to in order to try to lure the future Hall of Famer to Canada, where Nash is a citizen.

It is believed that the Suns will offer Nash only a two-year deal. Although they have the cap flexibility to offer him a higher salary, it is unlikely that they would give Nash a raise for a multiyear contract as he approaches 40. The two-time MVP averaged 12.5 points and 10.7 assists (second in the NBA) last season.

In an interview with ESPN on Saturday, just before the opening of the free-agency period, Nash sounded as though a return to the Suns doesn't look likely.

"I don't necessarily feel like they're determined to keep me," Nash said of the franchise with which he's spent the last eight seasons and won two MVP awards. "I think there's a lot of factors. So, one, I'm not sure they're determined to keep me; two, there's other opportunities that are exciting. So I think I have to be open-minded."

While the Suns have maintained that they would like to bring Nash back, they appeared to be preparing for his potential departure when they selected North Carolina point guard Kendall Marshall with the 13th pick in the draft Thursday.

Courtesy of www.foxsportsarizona.com


Quebec Kebs set to relocate - by Eurobasket News

The National Basketball League of Canada is proud to announce the acceptance of the transfer of the Quebec KEBS to the City of Laval for the 2012-2013 season.

In six seasons in the old capital, the Quebec team has always been faced with the same problem, or that have a fixed and although home to them. They had to find an alternative to maintain the KEBS in the province of Quebec.

The choice of the owners stopped on the city of Laval, since this Coliseum can accommodate slightly more than 4000 fans. The city will also construct a new amphitheatre 2 or 3 years, making tilt, in the deliberation of the owners and the League Governors. In addition, there is a well-established tradition of basketball, which makes it an ideal place so the KEBS continue to evolve in the professional environment of NBL Canada.

"It is with great pride that we welcome the decision of the League, because they allow us to keep the team in Quebec." "We hoped with all heart the KEBS remain in the province and it is mission accomplished at this point," says Vincent Bernier, general manager of the team.

The KEBS participated the year last in the NBL Canada playoffs, finishing in 3rd in standings of the regular season. Being one of the best teams in the League, it was important that the Organization remains in place in NBL Canada.

The decision taken, the entire team is now ready to tackle the season next forward. The KEBS day camps are still held in Quebec City this summer, and as early as Monday next Yannick Anzuluni will return, to take part.

The KEBS would like to thank all the fans and partners who have supported and encouraged their team for six seasons. To you all, a huge thanks and GO KEBS GO!

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com


*****************************************************
  CROATIA   


U Mobitelco Cluj-Napoca hires Niksa Bavcevic as new Head Coach - by Eurobasket News

Niksa Bavcevic (agency: Interperformances) left Split to take over Romanian squad U Mobitelco Cluj-Napoca. The Croatian specialist signed a 2-year deal with the club. Bavcevic joined Split in January this year and helped them reach the Playoff Semifinals in Croatia. The team also played in Cup Semis. Bavcevic started the season with Jolly Jadranska Banka Sibenik, but they parted ways in November.
Niksa Bavcevic is not a new face in Romania and he already worked there. He was a Head Coach of Steaua Turabo Bucuresti in 2010/11 season. They reached Romanian Cup Finals and League Semis together. In 2009/10, Bavcevic coached Trogir and before that he worked with Roseto and Avtodor Saratov. From 2005 to 2007, he worked with Belgian Dexia Mons-Hainaut winning the Cup trophy with them (2006). From 1999 to 2005, Niksa Bavcevic was Head Coach of Pepinster. In 2003, he was named Eurobasket Belgian League Coach of the Year.


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


Mokongo returns to Apoel - by Dr. Nasios Orinos

Apoel announced signing of African French Michael Mokongo (180-PG-86) and the Cypriot George Neofytou.

Mokongo is 1.8 cm tall and plays the point guard position. He is very strong, passionate and quick, can defend full-court and can be very disruptive. Michael is coming from Roanne France where he averaged 3 pts in 28 games. In 2009-2010 Mokongo played for Apoel with which he won the championship.

Apoel also renews the Cypriot and Captain of the team George Neofytou. Last year Neofytou averaged 2 pts in 12 games.


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


Denmark clinched Bronze at Future Stars International Tournament - by Eurobasket News

Denmark clinched Bronze at Future Stars International Tournament with 6 participating teams. The team lost the Semifinal game to Ukraine, but then won over England.
In the Semifinal game Ukraine U18 overcame Denmark U18 65:54. They started with 16-15 and added 23-18 in the second period. Moreover Ukraine won the third frame 18-11 and did not mind 8-10 in the last stanza. Kudrya and Shevchenko top-scored for the winners with 18 points each, while Sahnyuk posted 11. Rasmus Glarbjerg replied with 13 points in defeat, while Anders Skou added 7.
In the game for the third place Denmark U18 outscored England U18 73:59. Denmark opened the game with 22-6 lead and never looked behind after. England however replied with 19-15 in the second period and then grabbed 18-14 in the third quarter. Denmark meanwhile won the last stanza 22-16 and grabbed bronze medals. Lundberg top-scored for the winners with 15 points and Peter Moeller (186-G-94) scored 14.


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


Jimmy Baxter joins San Lazaro - by Eurobasket News

Jimmy Baxter (198-G-80, agency: Court Side, college: S.Florida) is heading to Dominican Republic. The guard signed with San Lazaro. Jimmy Baxter started the season in Slovenia. He played for Krka Novo Mesto. The guard notched 10.5 points, 4.0 rebounds and 2.0 assists per game in Adriatic League. In EuroCup Jimmy Baxter posted 9.5 points, 3.3 boards, 1.5 assists and 1.3 steals per appearance. In January the guard moved to Ikaros Kallitheas in Greece. His stats read 12.9 points, 3.5 boards, 2.0 assists and 1.5 steals per appearance in A1 League. Later Jimmy Baxter signed contract with French Bourg Basket. The guard notched 17.1 points, 4.4 boards, 5.0 assists and 1.9 steals. In May Jimmy Baxter moved to Nancy. He tallied 1.7 points and 1.7 rebounds per game in ProA.


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


Arturs Strelnieks heads to VEF Riga - by Eurobasket News

Arturs Strelnieks (196-SG-85) heads to VEF Riga for the next season. According to VEF Riga Official Website the Latvian Shooting Guard comes from BK Ventspils.
In 2011-2012 for BK Ventspils (LBL, starting five): he averaged 1.0ppg, 1.9rpg in EuroChallenge and in Baltic League showed 3.3ppg, 2.8rpg. In Latvian League after 24 games his stats read 7.1ppg, 4.2rpg, 1.7apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 58.1%, 3PT: 42.1%, FT-2 (92.9%)4.2rpg, 1.7apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 58.1%, 3PT: 42.1%, FT-2 (92.9%).
Early in April Arturs Strelnieks put on an extraordinary performance for top-ranked Ventspils, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 24.
The 25-year old player was the main contributor (20 points, six rebounds and two assists) to his team's victory, helping them to outclass Turiba with 58-point margin 101-43. In the team's last game Strelnieks had a remarkable 100.0% from 2-point range. It's his second year at Ventspils and it's hard to imagine this team without him.


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


D'or Fischer close to Fenerbahce Ulker - by Ugur Turker

D'or Fischer (211-C-81, college: W.Virginia) who spent succesfull season in Gescrap Bizkaia Bilbao Basket is on way to sign with Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul. It is known that Turkish team is trying to add higly-career backcourt to its roster after hiring Simone Pianigiani . Maccabi Tel Aviv, Real Madrid are amongs other teams which Fischer played. He helped Gescrap Bizkaia Bilbao Basket to reach an Final 8 in THY Euroleague with 7.9ppg and 5.9 rpg. David Andersen (211-C-80) and Novica Velickovic (205-F-86) are other possible candidates for Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul's backcourt.


BC Donetsk keep Ramel Curry - by Eurobasket News

BC Donetsk have secured the services of Ramel Curry (192-G-80, college: CSU Bakersfield) for the next season. The guard signed a new deal with the Ukrainian champions. Ramel Curry was one of the masterminds of BC Donetsk success last season. The guard notched 14.3 points, 4.4 boards, 2.8 assists and 1.4 steals per game in Superleague. Eurobasket.com named Ramel Curry All-Ukrainian Superleague Player of the Year. The guard also delivered 16.4 points, 3.9 rebounds, 3.1 assists and 1.4 steals per game in EuroCup. Ramel Curry made it into EuroCup All-Imports Team. Ramel Curry has been playing in Ukraine since 2010. He joined BC Donetsk at the start of the previous season playing for Azovmash before. The guard also had stints in Turkey, Italy, Dominican Republic, Israel, D-League and ABA before.


Malik Hairston will stay with EA7 Emporio Armani Milano, according to report - by Eurobasket News

Malik Hairston (198-G-87, college: Oregon) will stay with EA7 Emporio Armani Milano, according to Sportando.net. Reportedly, the player had offers from CSKA Moscow, Regal Barcelona and Fenerbahce, but at the end he made a decision to stay with Milano, who already signed Keith Langford, Richard Hendrix and David Chiotti. It is already clear that one of their main goals will be to end domination of Montepaschi in Italy.
Malik Hairston arrived to Milano last summer. For 12 Euroleague games with them he had 13.9 ppg, 2.8 rpg and 1.5 apg. In SerieA the player added 12.7 ppg, 3.8 rpg and 1.9 apg for 33 games. The player was awarded with Eurobasket.com Italian SerieA All-Imports Team -12 and Eurobasket.com All-Italian SerieA 2nd Team -12, while Milano reached Playoff Finals. Malik Hairston won the SerieA title with Montepaschi in 2011. He helped them with 10.3 ppg and 2.7 rpg for 23 games. In the past, Hairston played for San Antonio Spurs and Austin Toros. He graduated at the University of Oregon in 2008.


Partizan lands young French star Leo Westermann - by Eurobasket News

Partizan penned a three-year deal with Leo Westermann (198-G-92, agency: Beo Basket). One of the top French prospects officially parted ways with ASVEL yesterday.
Leo Westermann joined ASVEL two years ago from CFBB. Last season he had 8.8 ppg, 3.3 apg and 2.6 rpg for 29 games in ProA. The player also added 6 ppg, 3.6 apg and 2.2 rpg for 12 games in EuroCup. In 2010/11, Westermann had lower numbers.
Leo Westermann is one of the top French prospects. He participated at the 2012 Nike Hoop Summit (World Team Selection) and last year he played at Adidas Eurocamp in Treviso. Westermann helped U20 France to win the Bronze at U20 EuroBasket 2011 in Spain. He had 10 ppg, 3 rpg and 2.3 apg for 9 games at this event. In the past, he very successfully played for U18 and U16 France. Last season Westermann was the winner of French ProA All-Star Game Skills Challenge.
Leo Westermann participated at the 2012 Nike Hoop Summit, which was held in Portland earlier this year. He was in the starting five for the World Select Team and spent 28 minutes on the court. He had 4 points and 2 assists, while his team captured an 84-75 win over the USA Junior National Select Team.


Telenet Oostende extends Brent Wright and Quentin Serron - by Eurobasket News

Telenet Oostende officially announced signing of a 2-year contract extension with Brent Wright (203-F/C-78, college: Florida). The reigning Belgian champion also kept Quentin Serron (190-G-90) until the end of the 2014/15 season.
Brent Wright joined the club in December. He played 27 games in Belgian league collecting 11.6 ppg, 5.3 rpg and 1.4 apg. He was named Eurobasket.com All-Belgian League Finals MVP -12. Wright also picked up Eurobasket.com All-Belgian League Honorable Mention -12. He already won the Belgian league title with Oostende in 2006. Brent won two more titles with Charleroi in 2010 and 2011.
Quentin Serron is a product of Oostende, where he started as a teenager. He had 3.5 ppg, 1.8 rpg and 1.1 apg last season for 35 games in Belgium. The player averaged 4.8 points and 2.4 rebounds for 8 EuroCup Games. In 2011, Serron was named Eurobasket.com All-Belgian League Most Improved Player of the Year.


Keith Langford officially signs 2-year deal with Milano - by Eurobasket News

As expected, Keith Langford (193-G/F-83, college: Kansas) officially became a new member of EA7 Emporio Armani Milano. The American guard signed a 2-year deal with the team. Langford parted ways with Maccabi Tel Aviv last week. He joined them at the beginning of the last season. He appeared 20 times in Euroleague averaging 10.9 points, 2.6 rebounds and 2.1 assists. The player also added 14.2 ppg, 4 rpg and 3.2 apg for 22 games in Israeli Premier league. He helped the club to win the championship title and was named Eurobasket.com All-Israeli League Guard of the Year -12. Langford and Maccabi also won the Adriatic league title and Israeli Cup last season. In Adriatic league the player had 11.8 ppg, 3.3 rpg and 1.8 spg for 19 games. He was named Eurobasket.com All-Adriatic League Finals MVP -12. Before Maccabi, Keith Langford played for Khimky Moscow and La Fortezza Bologna.
EA7 Emporio Armani Milano signed David Chiotti (205-F/C-84, agency: Court Side, college: N.Mexico) yesterday. The player spent three seasons at Casale Monferrato.


Argiris Pedoulakis appointed Panathinaikos head coach - by Eurobasket News

Panathinaikos officially announced the name of the new head coach. Argiris Pedoulakis will take over the team in the next season. The specialist will replace Zeljko Obradovic on the bridge. Argiris Pedoulakis worked with DASH Peristeri during the last two seasons. Previously he guided AEK, PAOK, Ago Rethimno, Panellinios, Makedonikos Kozani and Peristeri. Argiris Pedoulakis also worked as assistant coach with Peristeri before. He led the teams at A1 All-Star Game in 1998, 2001, 2003 and 2006. The specialist was named Greek Coach of the Year in 2001 and 2003. Argiris Pedoulakis worked with Greek National Team in 1995. He also had experience working with Greek U22, U18 and U16 National Teams.


*****************************************************
  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS   


European Championship for Small Countries: Day 1 - by Eurobasket News

Group A

Moldova-Gibraltar 81:62
Moldova opens Division C of the European Championship Of The Small Countries Men 2012 with the win over Gibraltar. The Moldovan side overcame the opponents 81:62 in San Marino.
Moldova was the favorite of the game and started it with the ambition. They produced a 18-9 in the first period and never looked behind after. Moreover Moldova added 20-17 in the second frame for 38:26 at the halftime. In the third quarter both teams nailed 23 points each that remained the same difference in the court. Moldova won the last stanza 20-13 and clinched the first victory of the European Championship of the Small Countries Men 2012.
Vladimir Priscepnii (200-F/G-88) and Rulevski top-scored for the winners with 14 points each. Ivan Cropotov (208-F-88, college: SW Baptist) netted 13, while Coputerco delivered 11. Dylan Gomez (193-F/G-89) ended up with 13 points in the losing effort, whilst Buxton brought 11 points and 10 rebounds.

Moldova: Vladimir Priscepnii 14+14 rebs, Rulevski 14, Ivan Cropotov 13, Coputerco 11
Gibraltar: Dylan Gomez 13, Buxton 11+10 rebs

Group B
San Marino-Wales 58:53

San Marino overcame Wales at the end of Day 1 at the European Championship Small Countries. The hosts of the tournament grabbed 58:53 in the last game of the day.
Wales took 15:14 after the first period and added 14-11 in the second frame. The third quarter however was decisive in the game and brought 21-10 for the home side. Enrico Zanotti (195-C-90) and Rossini brought 53:46, while Pearce cut it to 5 points. Enrico Zanotti later made two free throws for 58:52 and Williams made the final result in the game. Although Wales won the last period 14-12 they managed to reduce only to 5.
Enrico Zanotti top-scored for the winners with 16 points and 12 rebounds, while Raschi delivered 12 points and 11 rebounds. Cardinali notched 9 and Rossini scored 8. Ioan Nickson posted 16 points in defeat and Duppa had 10.

San Marino: Enrico Zanotti 16+12 rebs, Raschi 12+11 rebs, Cardinali 9, Rossini 8
Wales: Ioan Nickson 16, Duppa 10

Malta -Scotland 75:64

Malta started their Division C of the European Championship of the Small Countries Men 2012 with the win over Scotland.
The Maltese squad opened the game with 24-14 and dominated the first half. They added 15-9 in the second frame and enjoyed 39:23 halftime advantage. In the third period Scotland bounced back with 23-17 and reduced to 10 points entering the last stanza. Darryl Jackson, college: N.Mexico) scored for 61:53, while Alistair Mackay brought 61:55. Danny Huffor (193-G, college: Newberry) and Schembri exchanged the baskets for 63:56 and Samuel Deguara (224-C-91) made two free throws for the double digit lead. Omar Said (177-PG-80) nailed a three-pointer for 69:56 when it became clear about the winner. Samuel Deguara later made it 70:58, while Omar Said and Samuel Deguara scored for 73:59. Schembri and Glass exchanged meanwhile the last shots in the game.

Samuel Deguara paced all the winners with 21 points and 10 rebounds, while Darryl Jackson poured in 15. Omar Said netted 14 and Schembri added 11. Danny Huffor ended up with 17 points in the losing case, while Collins collected 16 points and 10 boards. Murray followed them with 14 points.

Malta: Samuel Deguara 21+10 rebs, Darryl Jackson 15, Omar Said 14, Schembri 11
Scotland: Danny Huffor 17, Collins 16+10 rebs, Murray 14


*****************************************************
  FINLAND   


Israel take first win in Ruma - by Eurobasket News

Israel U20 - Finland U20 80:69

Israel claimed the first win at the international tournament in Ruma. They overcame Finnish counterparts but could not avoid finishing in the last position. Finland clinched the second spot despite the loss. Bar Timor (191-PG-92, agency: Avi Zilberman) stepped up with 19 points to lead the winning side.
Finland dominated in the opening quarter. They posted a 20:14 lead at the first break. But Israel turned things around in the second quarter. The Israeli team went on a big rally to secure a 32:25 halftime advantage. Israel maintained the lead throughout the third quarter. Moreover they posted a 59:44 buffer before the final stanza. Finland never recovered and had to surrender at the end. Or Solomon (197-F-93) provided 16 points for the winners. Alex Murphy (203-F-93) topscored with 19 points for Finland. Joonas Caven (211-C/F-93) had 13 points in the loss.

Israel U20: Bar Timor 19, Or Solomon 16
Finland U20: Alex Murphy 19, Joonas Caven 13


KORISLIIGA: Loren Stokes next to Finland - by Rauno Hurmalainen

American G Loren Stokes (190-G-83, college: Hofstra 2003-07) will return back to Europe. Stokes and Kataja (Joensuu) have inked a contract for coming 2012-13 season. Stokes started his professional career in Cyprus (Apoel Nicosia) 2007-08. Then followed short stints in Italy (Aget Imola, Lega2) and in Ukraine (BC Odessa). 2009-10 Stokes was playing in Belgium (Aalstar) and the last two years (2010-12) Stokes has stayed in USA and been part of Erie Bay Hawks (D-league) roster.
FoKoPo (Forssa) has re-signed with G Sami Ikavalko (188-G-89), who averaged 14,8 ppg - 3,7 rpg - 3,8 apg last season in Division 1. Ikavalko will start his third season in Forssa.


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


Denain ASC Voltaire lands Liorel - by Eurobasket Center

Denain ASC Voltaire (ProB) strengthened their roster with addition of 23-year old guard Antoine Liorel (181-G-89). Liorel played most recently at Etendard de Brest (NM1). While playing 31 games for Brest last season he averaged 8.9ppg, 1.7rpg and 2.8apg. He helped them to make it to the final.

By Eurobasket Data Center


Frederic Minet is a newcomer at BC Souffelweyersheim - by Eurobasket Center

BC Souffelweyersheim (NM1) added to their roster 31-year old guard Frederic Minet (188-G-81). Minet played most recently at Denain ASC Voltaire (ProB). While playing 29 games for Denain last season he averaged 7.8ppg, 1.6rpg and 1.9apg. He is a very experienced player.
Minet was voted to Eurobasket.com French N1 All-Domestic Players Team in 2009-10.

By Eurobasket Data Center



Kante comes back to Union Poitiers Basket 86 - by Eurobasket Center

Union Poitiers Basket 86 added to their roster 25-year old Lamine Kante (200-SF-87). Its actually his comeback to Poitiers as he played here before. Kante played most recently at Denain ASC Voltaire (ProB). While playing 33 games for Denain last season he averaged 14.8ppg, 3.6rpg, 1.4apg and 1.2spg. A very spectacular season in his career as he was voted to Eurobasket.com French ProB All-Domestic Players Team.

By Eurobasket Data Center


Dijon keeps Andre Harris for 2012/13 - by Eurobasket News

According to French media (Catch-and-shoot.com), Dijon signed a one-year contract extension with Andre Harris (201-F/C-85, college: Fair Dickinson). It will be their second season together. In the latest one Harris averaged 10.3 points and 3.7 rebounds for 30 games in ProA.
In 2010/11 season Andre Harris was a member of Lille Metropole Basket. He played 34 games with them in ProB registering 18.4 ppg, 6.3 rpg, 1.8 spg and 1.5 apg. For his performance Harris was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-French ProB Honorable Mention -11. He was third scorer of the competition. Before Lille, the American spent one year with Saint-Etienne in NM1 and was the second scorer of the league. He also has experience from Israel and Holland. Harris graduated at the Fairleigh Dickinson University in 2007. That year he was in top 50 scorers of the NCAA1 and also was the NEC scoring champion (18.8 ppg).


Angers bring in Logi Gunnarson - by Eurobasket News

Angers bolstered their backcourt. They signed a deal with Logi Gunnarsson (190-G-81). The Icelandic player is not new to France. He used to play for Saint-Etienne back in 2009/10 season. The guard averaged 8.5 points, 1.7 blocks and 1.3 rebounds per game in NM1. Last two seasons Logi Gunnarsson spent in Sweden. He played for Solna Vikings. His stats read 16.0 points, 3.3 rebounds and 2.5 assists per appearance last season. Eurobasket.com named the guard into All-Swedish Basketligan 2nd Team in 2011. Previously the Icelandic player had stints in Germany, Iceland, Finland, Spain. Logi Gunnarsson was the member of Icelandic National Team in 2000/09 seasons.


Ronny Turiaf opts out of Miami Heat contract - by Eurobasket News

The Heat has retained one backup center and lost another. Ronny Turiaf (6'10''-C/F-83, agency: Priority Sports, college: Gonzaga) on Saturday opted out of a contract that would have paid him the veterans minimum $1.2 million next season. But Miami guaranteed Dexter Pittman's (6'10''-C-88, college: Texas) contract (worth $854,369) by Friday's deadline.

Turiafs agent, Mark Bartelstein, said his client always intended to test the market. "Hes worth more than the minimum," Bartelstein said. "He had a significant hamstring injury" late in the season.

Bartelstein said the Heat has expressed interest in keeping Turiaf and he plans to speak with Heat president Pat Riley. But the Heat very likely would not offer him more than the minimum.

Of Pittman, Riley said, "We expect improvement. Big guys, when you draft them late or in the second round, its a two- or three-year project. Hes going into his third year. We are going to give him a great shot and we expect this year he might be able to really contribute to us."

The Heat drafted LSU center Justin Hamilton with the 45th pick in Thursdays draft, but Riley said the Heat might stash him overseas next season. Riley, who compared Hamilton to former Heat center Michael Doleac, said he traded the Heats 27th pick to Philadelphia for a future No. 1 pick and the 45th pick in Thursdays draft, because none of the players the Heat wanted were still available at No. 27, and the first rounder from the 76ers "could be 10 or 11 picks better than" 27th.

The first-round pick from Philadelphia is lottery-protected through 2015.

The moves with Turiaf and Pittman leave the Heat with 11 players under contract due a combined $78.2 million. Juwan Howard and Eddy Curry and unrestricted free agents. Miami wants to keep restricted free agent Terrel Harris.

Free agency begins at 12:01 a.m. Sunday and the Heat is expected to pursue Ray Allen and others with its $3.1 million mini mid-level exception.

Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com


ASVEL agrees 3-year deal with Amara Sy - by Eurobasket News

According to French media (L'Equipe), Amara Sy (202-F-81) will return to ASVEL. Reportedly, they agreed a three-year deal. Sy spent last season with Orleans averaging 13.3 points 5.9 rebounds and 2.4 assists. He was named Eurobasket.com All-French ProA Forward of the Year -12. Sy was also awarded with Eurobasket.com All-French ProA Domestic Player of the Year -12 and Eurobasket.com All-French ProA 1st Team -12. He joined Orleans two years ago. In their first season together Sy had much lower numbers. Before Orleans, the player split 2009/10 season between Murcia and Bakersfield Jam. Amara Sy played for the Malian National Team at 2009 AfroBasket in Libya. He had 15.6 ppg, 7.2 rpg and 3.4 rpg in 9 games. In the past, Sy spent several years with ASVEL (1999-2002, 2005-2007, 2008/09).


Mathieu Guichard joins Bordeaux - by Eurobasket News

According to French media (Catch-and-shoot.com), Mathieu Guichard (188-G-88) will play another season in ProB. Reportedly, the player will move to Bordeaux. Last season Guichard spent with JA Vichy. He appeared 31 times in ProB registering 13.1 ppg, 2.7 agp and 2.4 rpg. The French guard joined Vichy last summer. Before that he spent couple of years with Clermont. It is the team where Guichard started his basketball career. In 2010/11 season, the player had 8.7 ppg, 1.9 ap and 1.7 rpg for 32 games. He had slightly lower numbers in 2009/10. His new team Bordeaux reached ProB Quarterfinals last season, but failed against Chalons. They were No.6 in regular season with 21-13 record.


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


Olympic Qualifying Tournament: Angola take care of FYR Macedonia - by Eurobasket News

Angola - FYR Macedonia 88:84

Angola opened their Olympic Qualifying Tournament campaign with victory. They held off FYR Macedonia in the first game in Group D in Caracas. Eduardo Mingas (200-F-79) scored 24 points to lead the African powerhouse.
Angola surprised the European team with 32 points in the first quarter to take an 11-point lead. Angola maintained the advantage throughout the second quarter. They established a 53:40 halftime lead. The teams exchanged baskets throughout the third quarter as Angola secured a 13-point lead before the fourth frame. FYR Macedonia went on a desperate rescue rally in the final term cutting the deficit to minimum but Angola withstood the threat and eked out victory at the end. Olimpio Cipriano (194-F-82) posted 23 points, while Carlos Morais (190-G-85) added 18 points in the win. Bo McCalebb (183-PG-85, college: New Orleans) answered with 21 points for FYR Macedonia. Pero Antic (210-F-82, agency: Beo Basket) finished with 17 points in the loss.

Angola: Eduardo Mingas 24, Olimpio Cipriano 23, Carlos Morais 18
FYR Macedonia: Bo McCalebb 21, Pero Antic 17


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


A2 team won another game over U20 team - by Eurobasket News

A2 team - U20 team 68:55

A2 team won another game over U20 team in a friendly campaign. Wohlfahrt-Bottermann led A2 team to a 68:55 win in Game 2.
A2 team started better and reached 15-8 after the first 10 minutes of the game. They added massive 21-10 in the second frame and enjoyed 36:18 at the halftime. Moreover A2 team won the third period 15-11 and led 22 points after thirty minutes of the game. Canty and Wohlfahrt-Bottermann scored for 64:46 and then Tolksdorf nailed three for 66:49 in response. Wendt scored two free throws for 66:51 and then Ziegenhagen brought 68:52 on the board. Kevin Bright (198-F/G-92) nailed three to make the final score in the game.
Wohlfahrt-Bottermann paced all the winners with 14 points and Simon Schmitz (188-G-90) as well as Oskar Fassler (198-G-88) had 9 each. Enosch Wolf (215-C-90) followed them with 8 points. Daniel Theis (206-C/F-92) replied with 10 points in the losing effort, while Kevin Bright delivered 7.

A2 team: Wohlfahrt-Bottermann 14, Simon Schmitz 9, Oskar Fassler 9, Enosch Wolf 8
U20 team: Daniel Theis 10, Kevin Bright 7


Brandon Larrieu agrees to terms with Hertener Loewen - by Moritz Korff

Brandon Larrieu (183-F, college: Seattle Pacific) has been added to the roster of Pro B team Hertener Loewen as the second import player for the 2012-13 campaign. The 24-year-old out of Puyallup, Wa., will spend his second season in Germany, and his second season playing under Coach Dirk Altenbeck. In 2010-11 Larrieu starred for the Giants Duesseldorf in the 2. Regionalliga.
He completed his college career at NCAA D2 school Seattle Pacific in 2010. As a senior Larrieu scored 15.6 points per contest for the Falcons, pulled down 2.6 rebounds and dished out 2.4 assists a game.
"We are looking forward to working with him again. His job will be to add depth to our team as a back up for Adrian Bowie and Farid Sadek", Altenbeck stated.


John Bynum commits to BV Chemnitz 99 - by Moritz Korff

2. Bundesliga Pro A team BV Chemnitz 99 has signed John Bynum (191-G-78, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Metro St.) for the 2012-13 season. The 34-year-old comes off a two-year stint at TBB Trier. In this past 2012-13 season the Visalia, California native had 32 appearances on the TBB squad, averaging 6.3 points and 3.0 rebounds a contest.
"Given our funds, it is not easy to find an adequate replacement for Gary Johnson (188-PG-82, college: Cent.Florida). But I think that John can fill this spot", Chemnitz coach Felix Schreier said.
Bynum graduated from NCAA D2 school Metropolitan State in the year 2000 and started his overseas career in England. He then moved to Grevenbroich, followed by a single year in Norway, and then returned to Grevenbroich. Later in his career Bynum also played for Weiden, Bremerhaven, Heidelberg, Paderborn, Crailsheim and most recently Trier.



Ismet Akpinar (SC Rist Wedel) I Would Like To Play For Alba Berlin One Day - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Ismet Akpinar (188-PG-95, agency: Beo Basket) is a 17 year old 182cm point guard from Hamberg that recently completed his first season in the Pro B for SC Rist Wedel. He played 24 games averaging 5,9ppg, 1,5rpg and 2,3apg. He started his basketball career for : BC Hamburg Tigers junior team in 2009 and last year played for the Oberliga team. Last summer, he took part at the European Championships U16 in Czech Republic -11: 9 games: 13.4ppg, 3.2rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 43.1%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 63.9%. He recently spoke to Eurobasket about his season with SC Rist Wedel.

Many PRO B teams have 3-4 Americans but SC Rist Wedel only had two Americans. What made the team so special?


We were one team ans we did all together as a team. Nobody had egos and nobody played for stats. We won our games playing defense and that was one of the reasons why we made the playoffs.


How was the adjustment coming from the Oberliga to the PRO B?


It was a big jump, but my goal wasnt to sit on the bench, but give gas from the start and always have energy and just do my thing.

You averaged 18,7 minutes per game. Would you have thought before the season that you would get so many minutes?


No I never would have thought that. I had to fight for every minute that I got. I am proud that my coach gave me so confidence in my play. The most important thing is to get playing time so I can keep improving.

What is the most important thing that you need to improve on your game now?


My decision making. It has to be quicker and better decisions. My shooting and penetration can be more stable.

What is a strength in your game that doesnt always get noticed right away?

My will and want to win games in crunch time. I always give 120-150% in clutch situations.

How is your relationship to coach Ozhan Gurel?


We have a very good relationship and it has been open from the start. I have known him many years and we just understand each other very well.

Your teammate Augie Johnston said that most players your age dont have the right attitude and already think that they know everything. You always want to learn. Where does your positive attitude come from?

I have always had that attitude and it came from my parents and my big brother who plays in Turkey. My brother always wanted to get better so I felt the same way. I always want to be better and train as hard as I can to get better.

You are very self critical. Is that the difference between being a good and very good player?


Yes, I always need to work on my game. I am never good enough. The most important thing is to be consistent at a good level.

Augie Johnston said your game is similar to Jeremy Lin. How much did that flatter you?


It flattered me a lot when I read it at eurobasket. Lin is a great player.

How has the Linsanity effected you?


It has been amazing how he has risen. He scored 20 points and then hit 30 points on Kobe Bryant. If he continues to be consistent then he could become my favorite player.

In the playoff game against Nordlingen where you won the game with a buzzer beater, you looked like a Kobe Bryant taking a two step pull up fade away jumper. Dont you feel pressure in these moments as a 16 year old?


I love these moments and always want the ball in my hand. I am just happy to have the ball in my hands. Some guys may be afraid to get the ball thinking that all will be mad if the shot is missed. I dont think about what can happen, but just about making the shot and believing in myself.

How many floaters do you practice per day?

I love floaters. In the past, I worked more on them than now. Now I am concentrating more on my pull up jumper.

If you could ask Jeremy Linn one question what would you ask him?


How he was able to so quickly be successful in the NBA. I also would ask him how he handles all the hype.

How important has Fabian Bocke been for the team?


He is a giant under the basket. The lane might be free and you might think that you can shoot, but then all of a sudden, he is there and blocks the shot or changes the shot. You always have to be thinking what will I do when Bocke comes. I like playing on his team in practice. His mid range jumper is like a lay up.

Who would win a 1-1 you or Augie Johnston?


Augie would win. He is a great shooter with great touch. He plays good defense and rebounds well and is just an allrounder.

What was your childhood like?


It was nice. I grew up in Hamburg an din the summers we always visited my family in Turkey.

Who were your NBA idols as a kid?


My big brother and Tracy Mcgrady in his prime.

Who was your favorite German player.

Without a doubt Dirk Nowitzki.

How did you start playing basketball?

I started with 8 years. At that time, I had the choice between basketball and soccer. I always wanted to become a professional athlete. My big brother played a huge role. I saw what he did and wanted to follow him.

You started your basketball career at BC Hamburg. What was the most important thing that you learned in this time there?


I learned the basics of the game. I had three coaches and Andreas Nierhaus really showed me how to build up my game.

How much do you miss a Beko BBL team in Hamburg?


I miss it a lot. It is so sad that there is no team. There are so many potential good players, but if you are better than the PRO B, you have to leave Hamburg.

How tough is it combining, school, basketball and friends?


It is hard to combine all. I train twice a day and have away games as well. I do have a private life and spend time with friends. I just know what my principles are and basketball is #1.

What was your nicest memory of the European championships 2012 in the Czech Republic where Germany had an 8th place?


Just playing at a top level and knowing you are at a tournament where you can become European champion. We won 4 games in a row and the emotions were amazing. The feeling to have played there was great.

Which player do you remember the most from the 2012 European championship?


The Spanish center who is 215cm. He blocked everything.

David Taylor is another very talented German form the year 1995. What do you like most about his game?

His speed. He is so fast from 0-100. When he gets a rebound, he uses the open court so well and already has scored a lay up before the defense can get back.

What were the most free throws that you made in a row?


39

Your most crazy shot in a game?

A half court bank shot with my back turned.

What are your hobbies?

Relaxing, sleeping and play station.

If you could play for a Beko BBL team where would you like to play?


I would want to play for a team where I play. I would like to play for Alba Berlin.

Your favorite German point guard?

Heiko Schaffartzik and Per Guenter.

Your favorite international point guard?

Juan Carlos Navarro.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?


Ziemlich beste freunde.

Thanks Ismet for the chat.


The New Yorker Phantoms Braunscweig And Rich Melzer Part Ways - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Over the weekend, the New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig announced that Rich Melzer (203-F/C-79, agency: Court Side, college: Wisc.-RiverFal.) wont be joining Immanuel McElroy, captain Nils Mittmann, Robert Kulawick, Dennis Schrder, Nick Schneiders and Daniel Theis on the roster for the 2012-2013 beko BBL season. Melzer who joined Braunschweig last season after having made his first Beko BBL experience in 2007-2008 with the Artland Dragons played a strong season for the Phantoms playing 31 games: 11.5ppg, 4.3rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 47.9%, 3PT: 27.8%, FT: 75.6%. Despite the strong season by Melzer, the New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig are looking in another direction. "There will be changes on the international positions for other teams as well. We have decided for various reasons to get another player at this position", stressed Phantoms head coach Kostas Flevarakis . Melzer scored in double figures 19 times including a 16 point, 10 rebound performance against Wurzburg. Melzer also enjoyed his best point totals against German teams that start with B as he pounded home 22 points against Bayreuth and Bremerhaven. "We thank Rich for his role model effort and wish him all the best for the future", declared Phantoms sport director Oliver Braun

Source: New Yorker Phnatoms braunschweig


*****************************************************
  GHANA   


Ivory Coast U18 starts Zone 3 campaign with the win - by Eurobasket News

Ivory Coast U18-Ghana U18 54:33

Ivory Coast U18 starts Zone 3 campaign with the win at the Palais des sports Abidjan. The team overcame Ghana U18 54:33 in the opener.
Ivory Coast opened the game with 11 consecutive points in the first five minutes. The opponents meanwhile bounced back and reduced to 13:4 at the end of the frame. Both teams had difficulties to score in the second period and only one basket by the winning side brought 15:4 on the board. Ivory Coast improved to 26:8 at the end of the half and then led 32:12 midway through the third period. They finished it with 41:14 but lost the last period. Ghana needed 19-13 surge to cut it to the final score.
TOURE OUSMANE and OTTO ARSENE top-scored for the winners with 12 points each, while TRAORE DALEN nailed 10. KOUIBONHI JOSEPH followed them with 7 points. Cyril Clarke delivered 16 points in defeat and ABDUL MUTALIB produced 7.

Ivory Coast: TOURE OUSMANE 12, OTTO ARSENE 12, TRAORE DALEN 10, KOUIBONHI JOSEPH 7
Ghana: Cyril Clarke 16, ABDUL MUTALIB 7


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  GIBRALTAR   


Moldova opens Division C with the win over Gibraltar - by Eurobasket News

Moldova-Gibraltar 81:62

Moldova opens Division C of the European Championship Of The Small Countries Men 2012 with the win over Gibraltar. The Moldovan side overcame the opponents 81:62 in San Marino.
Moldova was the favorite of the game and started it with the ambition. They produced a 18-9 in the first period and never looked behind after. Moreover Moldova added 20-17 in the second frame for 38:26 at the halftime. In the third quarter both teams nailed 23 points each that remained the same difference in the court. Moldova won the last stanza 20-13 and clinched the first victory of the European Championship of the Small Countries Men 2012.
Vladimir Priscepnii (200-F/G-88) and Rulevski top-scored for the winners with 14 points each. Ivan Cropotov (208-F-88, college: SW Baptist) netted 13, while Nicolai Coputerco (192-G-85) delivered 11. Dylan Gomez (193-F/G-89) ended up with 13 points in the losing effort, whilst Sam Buxton (198-F-89) brought 11 points and 10 rebounds.

Moldova: Vladimir Priscepnii 14+14 rebs, Rulevski 14, Ivan Cropotov 13, Nicolai Coputerco 11
Gibraltar: Dylan Gomez 13, Sam Buxton 11+10 rebs


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  GREECE   


Argiris Pedoulakis appointed Panathinaikos head coach - by Eurobasket News

Panathinaikos officially announced the name of the new head coach. Argiris Pedoulakis will take over the team in the next season. The specialist will replace Zeljko Obradovic on the bridge. Argiris Pedoulakis worked with DASH Peristeri during the last two seasons. Previously he guided AEK, PAOK, Ago Rethimno, Panellinios, Makedonikos Kozani and Peristeri. Argiris Pedoulakis also worked as assistant coach with Peristeri before. He led the teams at A1 All-Star Game in 1998, 2001, 2003 and 2006. The specialist was named Greek Coach of the Year in 2001 and 2003. Argiris Pedoulakis worked with Greek National Team in 1995. He also had experience working with Greek U22, U18 and U16 National Teams.


Olympic Qualifying Tournament: Greece thump Jordan - by Eurobasket News

Greece - Jordan 107:63

Greece had little problems in their Olympic Qualifying Tournament opener. They cruised past Jordan A opener. Kostas Papanikolaou (206-F-90) came up with 19 points to lead the effort.
The teams stayed close throughout opening minutes. But the Hellenes bridged the first and second quarter with a 30:2 run to take a 42:12 lead. They arrived at the interval up by 35 points 53:18. Jordan had little to answer with throughout the third quarter. Greece established a comfortable 85:43 lead into the fourth frame. The Hellenes easily passed 100-point mark and cruised to the victory at the end. Georgios Printezis (206-F-85, agency: FCM) delivered 16 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists, while Dimitrios Mavroeidis (208-C-85, agency: FCM) added 15 points for the winners. Enver Soobzokov (201-G/F-78, college: CS San Bernar.) answered with 14 points for Jordan. Zaid Abbas (203-F-83) finished with 11 points and 7 rebounds in the loss.

Greece: Kostas Papanikolaou 19, Georgios Printezis 16, Dimitrios Mavroeidis 15
Jordan: Enver Soobzokov 14, Zaid Abbas 11


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  HOLLAND   


GasTerra Flames Inks prospect Dimeo van der Horst - by Fred Roggen

GasTerra Flames has officially announced the arrival of 21-year-old combo guard Dimeo Van Der Horst (195-G/F-91, agency: R.H.Consultancy), who inked a two-year deal, the club confirmed today.
Dimeo Van Der Horst arrives from Matrixx Magixx, where he averaged 4.6 points and 1.8 assists in 24 Dutch basketball league games last season.
Van der Horst has also been a member of the Dutch U16, U18 and U20 national team. Last year he made his debut in the Dutch National Team.



GasTerra Flames tabs forward Jamal Boykin - by Fred Roggen

GasTerra Flames reached an agreement with forward Jamal Boykin (203-F-87, college: California), who inked a one-year deal with the Dutch powerhouse, the club confirmed Monday.
American power-forward Jamal Boykin arrives from Iwate Big Bulls (Japan-BJ League), where he averaged 10.7 points and 6.9 rebounds in 24 Japan-BJ League games last season.
Jamal Boykin has also played for Papa Johns Omonia Nicosia in Italy and Gaziantepspor in Turkey since finishing his three-year career at University of California (NCAA).



Landstede Zwolle lands "Rising Star" Leon Williams - by Fred Roggen

The most Improved Player of the Year switched Dutch basketball league addresses on Monday when Landstede Zwolle announced an agreement with point guard
Leon Williams (183-PG-91, agency: R.H.Consultancy) until the end of the 2012-13 season.
Leon Williams arrives from Rotterdam Basketbal College, where he averaged 5.8ppg, 2.1rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 41.7%, 3PT: 29.4%, FT: 78.5% in 27 Dutch basketball league games last season.



Matrixx Magixx names new head coach Mark van Schutterhoef - by Fred Roggen

After Michael Schuurs left Matrixx Magixx, the club turned around and tabbed Mark van Schutterhoef as the new head coach, he signed a one-year deal with an option for the 2013-14 season.
Mark van Schutterhoef , 42, who spent the last three years working as head coach of the Luxembourg U16 and U18 national teams, has been handed the reins to the club.
Before he went to Luxembourg, he worked seven seasons as a assistant coach for Landstede Zwolle under head coach Herman van den Belt,
Magixx would like to work a number of years with Mark van Schuttershoef.But that depends on our financial situation, "emphasizes technical manager Ral van Loon.


BC Apollo Amsterdam join Dutch Basketball league - by Fred Roggen

BC Apollo Amsterdam join Dutch Basketball league. So its official a return for basketball in Amsterdam with the arrival of BC Apollo Amsterdam for the 2012/13 season.
BC Apollo Amsterdam have confirmed they will be part of the Dutch Basketball League next season, BC Apollo Amsterdam is now the tenth team in the DBL.
BC Apollo Amsterdam won the Promotie-Divisie championship, play-off last season, and will continue to compete in the Dutch Basketball League during the forthcoming 2012/13 season.


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  IBL   

Standings

IBL Standings
Branding
 1. Jersey G-F 4-2 
 2. Orlando V. 4-10 
 3. Yamhill H. 0-6 
Continental
 1. Bellingham S. 15-3 
 2. Vancouver V. 10-8 
 3. Olympia R. 6-13 
International
 1. Edmonton E. 14-3 
 2. Portland C. 13-4 
 3. Nippon T. 1-11 
Travel Team
 1. S. Soldiers 8-10 
 2. Los Angeles 0-0 
 3. W.Coast H. 0-5 

Regular Season: Round 23

Jul. 1: Bellingham S. - W.Coast H. 149-103
Jul. 1: Vancouver V. - S. Soldiers 140-129

Regular Season: Round 24

Jul. 3: Olympia R. - Edmonton E.
Jul. 3: Portland C. - Nippon T.


Slam Clinch IBL Regular Season Title - by Kip Leonetti

The Bellingham Slam clinched the International Basketball League's regular season title with a 149-103 victory over the Oregon Hotshots on Sunday at Whatcom Pavilion.

The win puts the Slam's regular season record at a league-best 15-3. Second-place Edmonton has a chance to match that mark with one game remaining, but Bellingham holds the tiebreaker by virtue of their head-to-head record this season.

Earning the league's best record assures the Slam of a top seed in next week's IBL Championship Tournament, which begins Thursday in Bellingham. As a number one seed, the Slam will earn a first round bye and will see their first action in a semi-final game on Friday.

In Sunday's game, the Slam started out on fire, perhaps inspired by Saturday's tough loss in Portland, racing out to a 23-9 lead after the first six minutes.

Bellingham refused to relent in the second quarter, leading by as much as 29 before heading into halftime with a 82-52 lead.

Oregon was able to stop the bleeding in the third quarter and didn't allow the Slam to extend their lead.

The same couldn't be said for the fourth quarter, as the Slam held the Hotshots to 20 points as the lead surpassed the 40-point mark halfway through the quarter.

Every Slam play who saw action scored in double figures, led by Jacob Stevenson (6'4''-G-81, college: W.Washington) with 31 points. Blake Poole (6'5''-C-88, college: St.Martin's) put in 25 points and added 12 rebounds, while Morris Anderson (6'3''-G, college: W.Washington) and Andrew Ready (6'1''-G, college: W.Washington) each finished with 22 points and 10 assists.

The Slam's next game will be on Friday as they await the winner of a first round playoff game on Thursday against the Vancouver Volcanoes and Salem Soldiers. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. at Whatcom Pavilion.


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  ICELAND   


Change of rules - by Siggi Hjorleifsson

Icelandic Basketball Federation has changed the rules in Top leagues mens and womens and in Division 1 also.
The changes are in Mens top league that three Icelandic players have to be on the court at all time. So each team will almost for sure only have 2 American players and no Bosman players on their rosters.
In womens top league and mens Division 1 four Icelandic players have to be on the court at all time. Probably 1 American will be on rosters in these leagues and no Bosman.
Is this for good? Time will tell. Are enough good Icelandic players to keep the standard up? Time will tell.
As it has started now too many of the young and talented players in Div 1 has sign with top league Club, reason is probably not enough players, that will then hurt the standard in Div 1


Division 1 teams signing - by Siggi Hjorleifsson

FSU has sign Head coach for their Basketball Academy and their Senior men's team for next 2 years.
Erik Olson (193-F, college: Linfield) (Agent Icebasket) 26 years old American has agreed on a contract with the Club. Olson has as a player played in Scotland, Germany and last 2 season in Australia as player/coach. At FSU he will only be a coach.
Haukar have sign their import player. Aaryon Williams (198-G) 6'6" is the player. Last season Williams played for Coach Joe Harge at New Mexico Highlanders NCAA Division 2 College
Hottur sign 6'6" American forward Frisco Sandidge (198-F-87, college: Delaware St.) Last season Sandidge spent on Lynsburg Legends in ABA league


Angers bring in Logi Gunnarson - by Eurobasket News

Angers bolstered their backcourt. They signed a deal with Logi Gunnarsson (190-G-81). The Icelandic player is not new to France. He used to play for Saint-Etienne back in 2009/10 season. The guard averaged 8.5 points, 1.7 blocks and 1.3 rebounds per game in NM1. Last two seasons Logi Gunnarsson spent in Sweden. He played for Solna Vikings. His stats read 16.0 points, 3.3 rebounds and 2.5 assists per appearance last season. Eurobasket.com named the guard into All-Swedish Basketligan 2nd Team in 2011. Previously the Icelandic player had stints in Germany, Iceland, Finland, Spain. Logi Gunnarsson was the member of Icelandic National Team in 2000/09 seasons.


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  ISRAEL   


Israel take first win in Ruma - by Eurobasket News

Israel U20 - Finland U20 80:69

Israel claimed the first win at the international tournament in Ruma. They overcame Finnish counterparts but could not avoid finishing in the last position. Finland clinched the second spot despite the loss. Bar Timor (191-PG-92, agency: Avi Zilberman) stepped up with 19 points to lead the winning side.
Finland dominated in the opening quarter. They posted a 20:14 lead at the first break. But Israel turned things around in the second quarter. The Israeli team went on a big rally to secure a 32:25 halftime advantage. Israel maintained the lead throughout the third quarter. Moreover they posted a 59:44 buffer before the final stanza. Finland never recovered and had to surrender at the end. Or Solomon (197-F-93) provided 16 points for the winners. Alex Murphy (203-F-93) topscored with 19 points for Finland. Joonas Caven (211-C/F-93) had 13 points in the loss.

Israel U20: Bar Timor 19, Or Solomon 16
Finland U20: Alex Murphy 19, Joonas Caven 13


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


Keith Langford officially signs 2-year deal with Milano - by Eurobasket News

As expected, Keith Langford (193-G/F-83, college: Kansas) officially became a new member of EA7 Emporio Armani Milano. The American guard signed a 2-year deal with the team. Langford parted ways with Maccabi Tel Aviv last week. He joined them at the beginning of the last season. He appeared 20 times in Euroleague averaging 10.9 points, 2.6 rebounds and 2.1 assists. The player also added 14.2 ppg, 4 rpg and 3.2 apg for 22 games in Israeli Premier league. He helped the club to win the championship title and was named Eurobasket.com All-Israeli League Guard of the Year -12. Langford and Maccabi also won the Adriatic league title and Israeli Cup last season. In Adriatic league the player had 11.8 ppg, 3.3 rpg and 1.8 spg for 19 games. He was named Eurobasket.com All-Adriatic League Finals MVP -12. Before Maccabi, Keith Langford played for Khimky Moscow and La Fortezza Bologna.
EA7 Emporio Armani Milano signed David Chiotti (205-F/C-84, agency: Court Side, college: N.Mexico) yesterday. The player spent three seasons at Casale Monferrato.


Malik Hairston will stay with EA7 Emporio Armani Milano, according to report - by Eurobasket News

Malik Hairston (198-G-87, college: Oregon) will stay with EA7 Emporio Armani Milano, according to Sportando.net. Reportedly, the player had offers from CSKA Moscow, Regal Barcelona and Fenerbahce, but at the end he made a decision to stay with Milano, who already signed Keith Langford, Richard Hendrix and David Chiotti. It is already clear that one of their main goals will be to end domination of Montepaschi in Italy.
Malik Hairston arrived to Milano last summer. For 12 Euroleague games with them he had 13.9 ppg, 2.8 rpg and 1.5 apg. In SerieA the player added 12.7 ppg, 3.8 rpg and 1.9 apg for 33 games. The player was awarded with Eurobasket.com Italian SerieA All-Imports Team -12 and Eurobasket.com All-Italian SerieA 2nd Team -12, while Milano reached Playoff Finals. Malik Hairston won the SerieA title with Montepaschi in 2011. He helped them with 10.3 ppg and 2.7 rpg for 23 games. In the past, Hairston played for San Antonio Spurs and Austin Toros. He graduated at the University of Oregon in 2008.


Basket Veroli announced the agreement with Franco Marcelletti - by Antonello Varallo

Franco Marcelletti is the new head coach of Basket Veroli.
The 57 years old coach joins Veroli after a very good season spent with Basket Ostuni (post season with a record of 13 W and 15 L, a very good work with point guard Aaron Johnson). During his career, Marcelletti has won 1 Serie A league and 1 Coppa Italia with Caserta (his hometown) and he has been head coach of important teams as Olimpia Milano, Verona and Reggio Emilia. His record is Serie A is 233 W and 194 L.


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  IVORY COAST   


Ivory Coast U18 starts Zone 3 campaign with the win - by Eurobasket News

Ivory Coast U18-Ghana U18 54:33

Ivory Coast U18 starts Zone 3 campaign with the win at the Palais des sports Abidjan. The team overcame Ghana U18 54:33 in the opener.
Ivory Coast opened the game with 11 consecutive points in the first five minutes. The opponents meanwhile bounced back and reduced to 13:4 at the end of the frame. Both teams had difficulties to score in the second period and only one basket by the winning side brought 15:4 on the board. Ivory Coast improved to 26:8 at the end of the half and then led 32:12 midway through the third period. They finished it with 41:14 but lost the last period. Ghana needed 19-13 surge to cut it to the final score.
TOURE OUSMANE and OTTO ARSENE top-scored for the winners with 12 points each, while TRAORE DALEN nailed 10. KOUIBONHI JOSEPH followed them with 7 points. Cyril Clarke delivered 16 points in defeat and ABDUL MUTALIB produced 7.

Ivory Coast: TOURE OUSMANE 12, OTTO ARSENE 12, TRAORE DALEN 10, KOUIBONHI JOSEPH 7
Ghana: Cyril Clarke 16, ABDUL MUTALIB 7


Ivory Coast National Team 2012 - by Kristian Santiago

The 12 Elephants that played France in Toulouse:

4 Mickael Toti (181-PG-87)
5 Pape-Philippe Amagou (185-G-85, agency: Beo Basket)
6 Jonathan Ouegnin (193-G)
7 Kouame Kader Abo (199-PF-80)
8 Stephane Konate (187-G-80)
9 Anderson Affi (195-F-82)
10 Ismael N'Diaye (197-F-82, college: FIU)
11 Jean Baptiste Amemou
12 Guy Landry Edi (198-F-86)
13 Adjehi Baru (205-F/C-91)
14 Moussa Cisse
15 Jean-Michel Yotio (206-F/C)


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  JORDAN   


Olympic Qualifying Tournament: Greece thump Jordan - by Eurobasket News

Greece - Jordan 107:63

Greece had little problems in their Olympic Qualifying Tournament opener. They cruised past Jordan A opener. Kostas Papanikolaou (206-F-90) came up with 19 points to lead the effort.
The teams stayed close throughout opening minutes. But the Hellenes bridged the first and second quarter with a 30:2 run to take a 42:12 lead. They arrived at the interval up by 35 points 53:18. Jordan had little to answer with throughout the third quarter. Greece established a comfortable 85:43 lead into the fourth frame. The Hellenes easily passed 100-point mark and cruised to the victory at the end. Georgios Printezis (206-F-85, agency: FCM) delivered 16 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists, while Dimitrios Mavroeidis (208-C-85, agency: FCM) added 15 points for the winners. Enver Soobzokov (201-G/F-78, college: CS San Bernar.) answered with 14 points for Jordan. Zaid Abbas (203-F-83) finished with 11 points and 7 rebounds in the loss.

Greece: Kostas Papanikolaou 19, Georgios Printezis 16, Dimitrios Mavroeidis 15
Jordan: Enver Soobzokov 14, Zaid Abbas 11


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  LATVIA   


Arturs Strelnieks heads to VEF Riga - by Eurobasket News

Arturs Strelnieks (196-SG-85) heads to VEF Riga for the next season. According to VEF Riga Official Website the Latvian Shooting Guard comes from BK Ventspils.
In 2011-2012 for BK Ventspils (LBL, starting five): he averaged 1.0ppg, 1.9rpg in EuroChallenge and in Baltic League showed 3.3ppg, 2.8rpg. In Latvian League after 24 games his stats read 7.1ppg, 4.2rpg, 1.7apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 58.1%, 3PT: 42.1%, FT-2 (92.9%)4.2rpg, 1.7apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 58.1%, 3PT: 42.1%, FT-2 (92.9%).
Early in April Arturs Strelnieks put on an extraordinary performance for top-ranked Ventspils, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 24.
The 25-year old player was the main contributor (20 points, six rebounds and two assists) to his team's victory, helping them to outclass Turiba with 58-point margin 101-43. In the team's last game Strelnieks had a remarkable 100.0% from 2-point range. It's his second year at Ventspils and it's hard to imagine this team without him.


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  LEBANON   


Anibal inks Joey Accaoui and Ammoury brothers. - by Rabih Khoury

After the departure of their PG Rodrigue Akl to Sagesse, Lebanese Runner ups Anibal Zahle signed with Joey Accaoui (172-PG, college: Vermont). After his years at Vermont, Accaoui played for sagesse where he had in 20 minutes: 26 games: 8.5ppg, 1.6rpg, 2.8apg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 32.2%, FT: 69.4%. Accaoui signed a 2 years contract to join Anibal. On the opther hand, Anibal renewed for their forward Bachir Ammouri (197-F/C-83). Ammouri was a part of the team in last year's history season where he averaged : 36 games: 5.8ppg, 4.4rpg, FGP: 45.8%, 3PT: 26.0%, FT: 72.9%. Also Anibal signed with Tarek Ammoury (196-G, college: Marymount). Tarek is Bachir's brother and he just finished his studies in USA where he played for marymount university and averaged in his last season:14 games, 13.9ppg, 4.4rpg, 2.4apg, FGP: 41.5%, 3PT: 22.7%, FT: 72%


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  LIBYA   


Ahli Benghazi wins Arabian Clubs Basketball Championship 2012 - by Eurobasket News

Ahli Benghazi wins Arabian Clubs Basketball Championship 2012 with 5 participating teams. The team from Libya won all four games and clinched the title.
In Day 1 Ahli Benghazi overcame Al Shorta from Iraq 84:71. The latter grabbed 19-16 after the first period but the favorites took 39:30 halftime advantage. Moreover they increased to 62:43 after three quarters and won the game by 13 points.
In Day 2 Ahli Benghazi edged AL- aseema from Yemen 93:47. The team from Libya won the first period 21-9 and then did not allow the opponents to score in the second frame at all. They had 64:23 at the end of the third quarter and celebrated the easy win.
In Day 3 Ahli Benghazi thumb C.A.Bizerte from Tunisia 85:72. Ahli started with 29-11 but could not keep the big lead. They led 70:47 with 10 minutes remaining, but allowed the team from Tunisia to cut it to 13.
In the last day of the competition Ahli Benghazi overcame J.S.Kairaoun from Tunisia 76:63. The squad from Libya started with 19-11 lead and then had 38:26 at the halftime. J.S.Kairaoun reduced to 5 points entering the last period, but could not win the game.


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  MALI   


ASVEL agrees 3-year deal with Amara Sy - by Eurobasket News

According to French media (L'Equipe), Amara Sy (202-F-81) will return to ASVEL. Reportedly, they agreed a three-year deal. Sy spent last season with Orleans averaging 13.3 points 5.9 rebounds and 2.4 assists. He was named Eurobasket.com All-French ProA Forward of the Year -12. Sy was also awarded with Eurobasket.com All-French ProA Domestic Player of the Year -12 and Eurobasket.com All-French ProA 1st Team -12. He joined Orleans two years ago. In their first season together Sy had much lower numbers. Before Orleans, the player split 2009/10 season between Murcia and Bakersfield Jam. Amara Sy played for the Malian National Team at 2009 AfroBasket in Libya. He had 15.6 ppg, 7.2 rpg and 3.4 rpg in 9 games. In the past, Sy spent several years with ASVEL (1999-2002, 2005-2007, 2008/09).


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  MALTA   


Malta successfully opens Small Countries 2012 campaign - by Eurobasket News

Malta -Scotland 75:64

Malta started their Division C of the European Championship of the Small Countries Men 2012 with the win over Scotland.
The Maltese squad opened the game with 24-14 and dominated the first half. They added 15-9 in the second frame and enjoyed 39:23 halftime advantage. In the third period Scotland bounced back with 23-17 and reduced to 10 points entering the last stanza. Darryl Jackson, college: N.Mexico) scored for 61:53, while Alistair Mackay brought 61:55. Danny Huffor (193-G, college: Newberry) and Steve Schembri (187-SF-79) exchanged the baskets for 63:56 and Samuel Deguara (224-C-91) made two free throws for the double digit lead. Omar Said (177-PG-80) nailed a three-pointer for 69:56 when it became clear about the winner. Samuel Deguara later made it 70:58, while Omar Said and Samuel Deguara scored for 73:59. Steve Schembri and Glass exchanged meanwhile the last shots in the game.
Samuel Deguara paced all the winners with 21 points and 10 rebounds, while Darryl Jackson poured in 15. Omar Said netted 14 and Steve Schembri added 11. Danny Huffor ended up with 17 points in the losing case, while Nicholas Collins (200-F-84) collected 16 points and 10 boards. Gareth Murray (201-F-84, agency: Prossin Sports Management, college: Kalamazoo Valley CC) followed them with 14 points.

Malta: Samuel Deguara 21+10 rebs, Darryl Jackson 15, Omar Said 14, Steve Schembri 11
Scotland: Danny Huffor 17, Nicholas Collins 16+10 rebs, Gareth Murray 14


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  MOLDOVA   


Moldova opens Division C with the win over Gibraltar - by Eurobasket News

Moldova-Gibraltar 81:62

Moldova opens Division C of the European Championship Of The Small Countries Men 2012 with the win over Gibraltar. The Moldovan side overcame the opponents 81:62 in San Marino.
Moldova was the favorite of the game and started it with the ambition. They produced a 18-9 in the first period and never looked behind after. Moreover Moldova added 20-17 in the second frame for 38:26 at the halftime. In the third quarter both teams nailed 23 points each that remained the same difference in the court. Moldova won the last stanza 20-13 and clinched the first victory of the European Championship of the Small Countries Men 2012.
Vladimir Priscepnii (200-F/G-88) and Rulevski top-scored for the winners with 14 points each. Ivan Cropotov (208-F-88, college: SW Baptist) netted 13, while Nicolai Coputerco (192-G-85) delivered 11. Dylan Gomez (193-F/G-89) ended up with 13 points in the losing effort, whilst Sam Buxton (198-F-89) brought 11 points and 10 rebounds.

Moldova: Vladimir Priscepnii 14+14 rebs, Rulevski 14, Ivan Cropotov 13, Nicolai Coputerco 11
Gibraltar: Dylan Gomez 13, Sam Buxton 11+10 rebs


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  MONTENEGRO   


Milan Rondovic left Teodo - by Darko Pekic

The experienced coach Milan Rondovic is no longer the head coach of Teodo Tivat. After many successfull years in the Southern Montenegro his contract expired and it will not be renewed. Rondovic, who is a promotion specialist ( he won promotion with Primorka, Pljevlja and Teodo) will probably find a new club soon because the interest for his services is high.

Teodo played in the Superleague in last season and will compete in the regional league (Balkan) in the upcoming season.


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  NBA   


New Orleans Big 3 - by Daniel Gibson

Last Thursday night there was plenty to celebrate on Bourbon Street in New Orleans after the Hornets selected Anthony Davis with the first pick in the draft. As if that wasn't enough, nine picks later they were on the clock again and selected Austin Rivers at 10.

Davis was viewed as the best player in every mock draft and Rivers is widely viewed as a X-factor type of shoot-first guard with an wide offensive arsenal and aggressive attitude to match.

Putting Davis and Rivers with their rising star, Eric Gordon, could be the core for an impressive team in the coming years. They were also able to draft Darius Miller, Davis' teammate from Kentucky, later in the second round. Getting Miller in the second round was another good move that didn't get all the attention it deserved.

Miller was a four year player at Kentucky and a solid contributor on teams that featured loads of NBA talent. This past season he came off the bench as the freshmen Michael Kidd-Gilchrist became the starter, but instead of sulk he became more of a leader. Miller wasn't only great in the locker room and helping younger players, he made big time plays on the court in big moments. He's solidly built at 6-8 and has a versatile offensive game and he also can defend.

Miller's teammate, Davis, knows a thing or two about defending also. At Kentucky he broke the record for blocks and probably altered a few hundred others that he won't get credit for in the stat books. He admitted that in the beginning of the season he was uncomfortable playing in the post but as the season progressed so did his post game. He has great hands attached to those long arms of his and he was able to catch a lot of lobs and putback dunks for easy buckets. Davis had a late growth spurt in high and was 6'3 guard before that so his handle and shooting tough are a lot better than most at his size and position. In his college system he wasn't able to show case all of that because of the system but he may get the chance to display more of that with the Hornets.

Rivers displayed his offensive game at Duke, and some say he was too trigger happy at times. There's no denying that he's an extremely confident player who believes that he is or can be one of the best players on the court every night. His father, Celtics head coach, Doc Rivers had Austin around the game and at arenas from a young age during his career. For Austin, competing and being around some of the best athletes in the NBA is nothing new. After working out with NBA guys, playing against high school kids and college players probably didn't excite him as much as for some others. Now He'll get his opportunity but it will be interesting to see if he's able to be another guy on the team and not "the guy." If Eric Gordon resigns with the team there's no way that Rivers will start over him at shooting guard. Rivers may get an opportunity to play some point guard because his game is based off of one-on-one attacking and getting to the basket. There will be athletic 7-footers waiting for him in the paint in the NBA, if he's able to hit teammates (especially Davis) for easy baskets off his penetration that would be great for the team.

A back court of Rivers and Gordon could potentially be a nightmare for opposing defenses. Gordon is a bigger, stronger version of Rivers with a better shot. Rivers is quick and has a deadly crossover and knows how to break defenders down. When the get into the paint and draw defenders in the lob opens up Davis. These are probably a few of the possibilities that head coach Monty Williams has been thinking about for a few months now.

For any of this to be possible Gordon has to return to the team. He's an Indiana native and the Pacers have cap space and may look to sign him. Indiana won't be the only team with interest either. If Gordon does decide to return to New Orleans he will be the face of the franchise, along with his young running mates.


The franchise is dedicated to producing a winner and they took a few major steps forward by selecting some young players with upside that will be able to make an immediate impact. If you ask any NBA exec, that's the ultimate goal of the draft.


Sources: Celts, Griz in on Ray Allen - by Eurobasket News

The Miami Heat are the not the only team chasing shooting guard Ray Allen (6'5''-G-75, college: Connecticut).

While sources told ESPN.com's Brian Windhorst the Heat have made Allen their top offseason priority, sources confirmed to ESPN The Magazine's Chris Broussard the Boston Celtics and Memphis Grizzlies are also heavily pursuing Allen.

Sources said the Celtics, who Allen has spent the past five seasons with, are prepared to double the yearly salary the Heat can offer Allen, while the Grizzlies have offered Allen their full mid-level exception, worth $5 million, for two years.

Miami can only offer Allen its mini-mid-level exception worth $3 million. The Celtics, who have cap space, Allen's Bird rights, and who have made re-signing Allen their top priority now that Kevin Garnett is back in the fold, are ready to give Allen a two-year, $12 million contract, according to sources.

Atlanta, Dallas and the Los Angeles Clippers have also expressed interest in the 36-year-old sharpshooter.

Allen will take his time and go through the process, considering the financial aspects of each offer, his role on the team, and the team's ability to compete for a championship, sources told Broussard.

Celtics coach Doc Rivers talked to Allen on Sunday and called it a "stretch" to see Allen play elsewhere next season.

"We really want him back and I really think at the end of the day that he will be back because this is such a good fit for him. We need him back and we're trying to get him back," Rivers said after completing a morning round of golf in greater Boston. "We can offer him more money. Yes, there are a couple of teams way under the cap who might be able to offer more money. But other than that, we can offer him more (than Miami or Memphis). He already lives here. He knows his role and everything else. It's a stretch for me to see him go somewhere else."

Rivers said Allen gave no hints as to when he'll decide, but the coach was hopeful Garnett's decision to return to Boston will help convince Allen.

Free agency officially opened on Sunday at 12:01 a.m. ET, but players cannot officially sign until July 11.

Courtesy of ESPN


Report: Hawks turned down Pau Gasol - Josh Smith trade due to Lakers' high price - by Eurobasket News

The Hawks have known Josh Smith (6'9''-F-85) wants out of Atlanta for some time, but haven't really aggressively approached any deals until the last month or so. New GM Danny Ferry is interested in remaking the roster and so he's opened the phone lines finally.

One such offer reported a few days ago involved Pau Gasol (7'0''-F/C-80). On Sunday, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported that the reason the deal fell apart was due to the pricetag the Lakers are putting on Pau Gasol.

In addition to Johnson, the Hawks have been open to moving forward Josh Smith though they've resisted offers so far. Apparently the Hawks balked at a potential deal with the Lakers for Pau Gasol because L.A. wanted another major piece to go along with Smith. That would leave the Hawks with less than six players under contract, less talent, and no short-term cap relief because of the $38 million and two years remaining on Gasol's contract.

via Atlanta Hawks: Danny Ferry focused on salary cap flexibility' with trades | Atlanta Hawks.

We'll examine this from both sides.

From the Hawks' perspective: The problem remains the same for the Hawks. Smith is too valuable to move for a loss on talent return, and not good enough to do what is necessary to placate him as a star. It's a tricky puzzle that the Hawks have found themselves in. Smith has honestly played worthy of an All-Star appearance the past two seasons.

He also has wanted a trade these past two seasons.

But it's good that they haven't just executed a trade for trade's sake. With Joe Johnson on the books, they have to be careful in not staying in a position where they have to still try and compete after giving up Smith for peanuts. They have to get good return.

Whatever the Lakers were seeking in return, Gasol is the one that is far more considered damaged goods while Smith's best years are in front of him. Wherever they move him, they seem to be invested in not simply giving away the farm.

The Hawks have never really put Smith at the top of their priorities list. When he entered restricted free agency a few years ago, they simply waited. And waited. And waited. Finally, the Grizzlies, with a few bucks left under the cap, threw out a moderate offer for Smith that was below maybe his true value. Smith signed it, hoping the Hawks wouldn't match.

They did.

They've been neither excited to have him, nor willing to part with him, ever since. Whether that's due to his maturity, his game, or his contract value is unknown. But Ferry has entered, and as Ken Berger notes, been aggressive in reshapig this team. The trick now is to find that delicate balance between ensuring they move him and not moving him for too little.

From the Lakers' perspective: Same old Lakers, expecting the highest price for whatever they've put out on the lawn.

It's not enough that they would get a younger, more athletic, more aggressive, All-Star worthy power forward entering his prime for a player that has been absolutely eclipsed in the past two playoffs, the Lakers have to demand that they get an additional piece. And in a lot of deals in the past, that's worked.

It's exerting maximum leverage to get the kind of sweetheart deal that has long kept them at the top of the league. In short, the Lakers are attempting to revamp their teams with All-Stars in exchange for, maybe not their trash, but their unwanted items. Their Craigslist star, so to speak.

If the Lakers really want to get a replacement for Gasol, they can do that pretty easily and get a quality player. But they can't get a haul. Gasol was considered at that tier 18 months ago. No longer.

The Lakers have made a lot of noise about keeping their team intact. It seems more and more like exertion of leverage. The Lakers are interested in reshaping their team, they're just very good at getting the absolute most out of whatever they put on the table.

Courtesy of www.cbssports.com


Report: Nash has $36M offer from Raptors - by Eurobasket News

According to an ESPN report, Steve Nash (6'3''-PG-74, college: Santa Clara) met with representatives from the Toronto Raptors and New York Knicks on Sunday, the first day of NBA free agency, and the Raptors offered the 38-year-old point guard a three-year, $36 million deal.

The report also said Nash will meet Monday with the Brooklyn Nets, who are still attempting to re-sign unrestricted-free-agent point guard Deron Williams but might view Nash as a possible replacement if Williams signs elsewhere.

Nash made $12 million last season and has made it known that he is looking for a three-year deal, which the Raptors and GM Bryan Colangelo apparently agreed to in order to try to lure the future Hall of Famer to Canada, where Nash is a citizen.

It is believed that the Suns will offer Nash only a two-year deal. Although they have the cap flexibility to offer him a higher salary, it is unlikely that they would give Nash a raise for a multiyear contract as he approaches 40. The two-time MVP averaged 12.5 points and 10.7 assists (second in the NBA) last season.

In an interview with ESPN on Saturday, just before the opening of the free-agency period, Nash sounded as though a return to the Suns doesn't look likely.

"I don't necessarily feel like they're determined to keep me," Nash said of the franchise with which he's spent the last eight seasons and won two MVP awards. "I think there's a lot of factors. So, one, I'm not sure they're determined to keep me; two, there's other opportunities that are exciting. So I think I have to be open-minded."

While the Suns have maintained that they would like to bring Nash back, they appeared to be preparing for his potential departure when they selected North Carolina point guard Kendall Marshall with the 13th pick in the draft Thursday.

Courtesy of www.foxsportsarizona.com


Lakers express interest in small forwards Nick Young, Brandon Rush - by Eurobasket News

Looking to bolster one of the weakest benches in the league, the Los Angeles Lakers have made preliminary inquiries to the representative of free-agent small forwards Nick Young (6'6''-G/F-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: USC) and Brandon Rush (6'6''-G-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: Kansas).

Both are considered solid long-distance shooters but also beyond the Lakers' price range.

Young, 27, averaged 14.2 points last season but only 9.7 points in 22 games after the Los Angeles Clippers acquired him from Washington at the trade deadline. Y

oung, who played at Reseda (Calif.) Cleveland High and USC, is probably too expensive for the Lakers' spending limit of $3 million, the so-called "mini" mid-level exception.

Rush is a restricted free agent, meaning Golden State can match any offer sheet he signs. The Lakers would more likely acquire him via trade, though nothing was imminent. Rush recently received a qualifying offer from the Warriors for $4 million, which prevented him from becoming an unrestricted free agent.

Rush, 26, averaged 9.8 points and shot 50 percent last season as a reserve. He had an impressive 45 percent accuracy from three-point range.The Lakers also discussed the possibility of adding backup big man Lou Amundson, who averaged 3.5 points last season with Indiana.

When free agency began Saturday night, the Lakers immediately made contact with three of their own players who became free agents: Ramon Sessions, Jordan Hill and Devin Ebanks.

The Lakers do not have to adhere to the $3 million allowance for their own free agents, making it potentially easier to sign them.

Courtesy of www.bradenton.com


Sources: Hawks ship Williams to Jazz for Harris - by Eurobasket News

The Atlanta Hawks are closing in on their second significant trade of this early offseason, agreeing in principle Monday to trade forward Marvin Williams (6'9''-F-86, college: N.Carolina) for Utah Jazz point guard Devin Harris (6'3''-PG-83, college: Wisconsin), according to sources briefed on the discussions.

The deal, which is pending league approval, would mean that new Hawks general manager Danny Ferry will have shed Atlanta's two most onerous contracts -- Joe Johnson and Williams -- in his first week-plus on the job.

The Hawks have thus quickly emerged as a potential destination for Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard, who grew up in the Atlanta area and is close friends with Hawks swingman Josh Smith. Howard is also close with Anthony Morrow, one of five players that the Hawks will acquire from the Brooklyn Nets in their pending trade with the Nets for Johnson.

Although Howard has previously shown little interest in playing for his hometown Hawks, Ferry still has a key piece to offer Orlando in trade proposals for Howard in All-Star center Al Horford and young guard Jeff Teague, as well as the forthcoming salary-cap space to pursue Howard in the summer of 2013 should Orlando resist the trade inquiries sources say he'll soon be making and Howard indeed makes it to free agency as scheduled.

Williams -- who never lived up to billing after the Hawks took him No. 2 overall in the 2005 draft ahead of Chris Paul, who badly wanted to play in Atlanta -- has two seasons left on his contract at $8.3 million and $7.5 million. The Hawks thus have enough space in the summer to make free-agent bids for both Howard and Paul, who is expected to hold off an extension with the Los Angeles Clippers this summer to keep his options open, even with Blake Griffin on the verge of finalizing a five-year extension with the Clippers worth an estimated $95 million.

Combined with the Johnson trade, Atlanta is sending out more than $105 million in long-term salary with Monday's two deals and taking back just $23.5 million, as Harris is entering the final year of his contract at $8.5 million.

The flurry of action, after years of restraint from the Hawks, has also made a fast impression on Smith, sources said. Smith had been vocal for months about wanting to be dealt, but sources told ESPN.com that the swingman is excited about the direction Ferry has taken things in his brief time in charge.

Courtesy of ESPN


Ronny Turiaf opts out of Miami Heat contract - by Eurobasket News

The Heat has retained one backup center and lost another. Ronny Turiaf (6'10''-C/F-83, agency: Priority Sports, college: Gonzaga) on Saturday opted out of a contract that would have paid him the veterans minimum $1.2 million next season. But Miami guaranteed Dexter Pittman's (6'10''-C-88, college: Texas) contract (worth $854,369) by Friday's deadline.

Turiafs agent, Mark Bartelstein, said his client always intended to test the market. "Hes worth more than the minimum," Bartelstein said. "He had a significant hamstring injury" late in the season.

Bartelstein said the Heat has expressed interest in keeping Turiaf and he plans to speak with Heat president Pat Riley. But the Heat very likely would not offer him more than the minimum.

Of Pittman, Riley said, "We expect improvement. Big guys, when you draft them late or in the second round, its a two- or three-year project. Hes going into his third year. We are going to give him a great shot and we expect this year he might be able to really contribute to us."

The Heat drafted LSU center Justin Hamilton with the 45th pick in Thursdays draft, but Riley said the Heat might stash him overseas next season. Riley, who compared Hamilton to former Heat center Michael Doleac, said he traded the Heats 27th pick to Philadelphia for a future No. 1 pick and the 45th pick in Thursdays draft, because none of the players the Heat wanted were still available at No. 27, and the first rounder from the 76ers "could be 10 or 11 picks better than" 27th.

The first-round pick from Philadelphia is lottery-protected through 2015.

The moves with Turiaf and Pittman leave the Heat with 11 players under contract due a combined $78.2 million. Juwan Howard and Eddy Curry and unrestricted free agents. Miami wants to keep restricted free agent Terrel Harris.

Free agency begins at 12:01 a.m. Sunday and the Heat is expected to pursue Ray Allen and others with its $3.1 million mini mid-level exception.

Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com


Magic's Howard: 'Only one team on my list' - by Eurobasket News

For Orlando Magic star Dwight Howard (6'11''-C-85), it's Brooklyn or bust.

"There's only one team on my list and if I don't get traded there, I'll play the season out and explore my free agency after that," Howard told Yahoo! Sports Monday.

Howard did not specify which team, but multiple league sources say that it is the Brooklyn Nets.

Howard also denied an ESPN report that he had told people Orlando Magic officials had "blackmailed" him into forgoing the early termination option on his contract that ultimately cost him his free agency this summer, according to Yahoo! Sports.

"I never used the word blackmail in reference to any of my dealings with the Magic," Howard told Yahoo! Sports. "I never said that. It's defamatory and it's inaccurate. I know what blackmail means and any report that I used the term incorrectly is inaccurate."

On Friday, Howard met with new general manager Rob Hennigan and told him he wants to be traded to the Nets, sources with knowledge of the situation told ESPN The Magazine's Chris Broussard.

"This was not the first time (that I asked for trade)," Howard told Yahoo! Sports. "I communicated this to (Magic president) Alex (Martins) and (former general manager) Otis (Smith) way before Friday that I wanted to be traded -- months before this meeting with Rob Hennigan. That was all way before Stan (Van Gundy) got fired."

Hennigan was noncommittal when Howard told him he wants to be traded to Brooklyn, sources said.

Hennigan did not tell Howard whether he would trade him. His intentions were merely to hear the thoughts of the Magic superstar.

Team spokesman Joel Glass confirmed a meeting between Hennigan and Howard, but declined to discuss any particulars from it.

Friday was not the first time Howard asked the Magic to trade him. In December, before the lockout-shortened season began, he asked Orlando to deal him to the Nets.

Howard never rescinded his trade offer, even after picking up his option on the day of the trade deadline.

After undergoing surgery on his back in April, Howard asked then-Magic GM Otis Smith to trade him to the Nets, according to sources. Smith said he would seek a trade, but the Magic fired Smith shortly after the season ended.

Courtesy of ESPN


Thunder, coach Scott Brooks agree to 4-year deal - by Eurobasket News

The Oklahoma City Thunder and head coach Scott Brooks have agreed in principle to a new four-year deal that will pay him $4 million a year, but the sides were still working out contract language Saturday night, TNT's David Aldridge reports.

Brooks, in his fourth season as coach, have taken the Thunder from one of the worst teams in the NBA to the brink of a championship. The Thunder lost in five games to the Miami Heat in the NBA Finals.

Brooks contract was set to expire Sunday and the issues over the contract were reportedly how much in salary Brooks was to be compensated. Brooks made $2.1 million last season on a deal he signed in 2009. Eleven head coaches made $4 million or more last year.

Courtesy of http://tracking.si.com


Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard wants trade to Brookyn Nets - by Eurobasket News

The Miami Heat have ceased to be the hot basketball topic in Florida now that a report has surfaced indicating Dwight Howard (6'11''-C-85) once again wants to leave the Orlando Magic.

Howard's preference is a trade to the Brooklyn Nets, according to ESPN. That's the same team that was presumed last season to be in the lead for his services, either through free agency or a trade, before Howard opted in on the final year of his deal with Orlando on March 15. The Magic also are in talks with the Lakers, according to a Yahoo! report.

The Magic confirmed Howard, 26, met with new general manager Rob Hennigan on Friday but did not offer details of the substance of the conversation. The ESPN report said Hennigan was noncommittal when Howard asked to be traded to Brooklyn.

Howard is recovering from season-ending back surgery in April. He averaged 20.6 points and led the NBA with 14.5 rebounds a game last season. He has spent all eight years of his NBA career with the Magic, who drafted him No. 1 overall out of high school in 2004.

Courtesy of http://msn.foxsports.com


Blazers offer Hibbert max contract - by Eurobasket News

The Portland Trail Blazers offered Indiana Pacers restricted free agent center Roy Hibbert (7'2''-C-86, college: Georgetown) a maximum contract after meeting with him in Washington, D.C., early Sunday, SI.com has learned.

A source with knowledge of the meeting said Indiana did not offer a max deal at the outset of the free-agent negotiating period and, unless that changes, Hibbert is leaning toward signing the Trail Blazers' four-year, $58 million offer sheet. Hibbert cannot do so until July 11, when the free-agent moratorium ends, after which the Pacers would have three days to match the offer and retain the 25-year-old All-Star.

In addition, the source said one other team, which was not named, also offered Hibbert a max deal after the start of free agency on Sunday at 12:01 a.m. ET.

New Blazers general manager Neil Olshey and team president Larry Miller were among those who met at the office of Hibbert's agent, David Falk, the source said. Reports surfaced that the Blazers had also visited Chicago Bulls restricted free agent center Omer Asik, but the details of that pursuit and which Blazers officials may have been sent are unclear.

The attempt to sign Hibbert is a bold move for a Portland organization that is still reeling from the Greg Oden experience, those nightmarish five years in which the No. 1 pick of the 2007 draft played only 82 games because of seemingly endless knee injuries and surgeries. Recently named Pacers general manager Kevin Pritchard was the GM in Portland when the Blazers drafted the center from Ohio State.

The aggressive push to land one of the game's best young big men is a clear sign that Olshey is in win-now mode. The Blazers are looking to rebound from a 28-38 season and the 7-foot-2 Hibbert is seen as a strong partner for power forward and fellow All-Star LaMarcus Aldridge in the frontcourt. Many had assumed that the Blazers would use the sixth pick in Thursday's draft to select a tantalizing wild card, 18-year-old UConn center Andre Drummond, but clearly they were seeking a big man like Hibbert who could help immediately. (Drummond went ninth to the Detroit Pistons, while Portland took Weber State point guard Damian Lillard at No. 6 and Illinois center Meyers Leonard at No. 11.)

Hibbert, the 17th pick in 2008, has improved his game and his body immensely in his short career. After discovering a previously undiagnosed asthma condition that had hampered him during his first two seasons, Hibbert lost 23 pounds and 6 percent body fat for the 2010-11 season. Once the medical situation was resolved and Hibbert dedicated himself to training that included mixed martial arts, he evolved into a productive starter and defensive difference maker. He averaged 12.8 points, 8.8 rebounds, 2.0 blocks and 29.8 minutes last season while being named to his first All-Star team.

If the Pacers don't match and Hibbert joins Portland, it could mean the end of small forward Nicolas Batum's time with the Blazers. The agent for the restricted free agent, Bouna Ndiaye, has had contentious negotiations with the team dating to last summer and the lead-up to this free agency period gave no indications that it would be different -- even with the addition of former Clippers GM Olshey in early June.

Despite Portland's clear stance that re-signing Batum is a major priority, a recent comment by Ndiaye couldn't have helped. After Olshey compared Aldridge and Batum to the Clippers' Blake Griffin and Chris Paul as far as being "bedrock" players for their respective franchises, Ndiaye told The Oregonian, "I like that. Give me Chris Paul money and we will not be fighting too long. Just close your eyes and choose between Chris Paul and Blake Griffin and I'll be fine with that. Give me one of those contracts and you'll have a deal."

Instead, the Blazers offered one to Hibbert as free agency opened.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com


Farmar exercises option, will return to Nets - by Eurobasket News

Jordan Farmar (6'2''-PG-86, college: UCLA) has opted into the final year of his contract, guaranteeing he will earn $4.25 million this season and eating into a bit of Nets' cap space this summer.

Farmar, 25, averaged 10.4 points and 3.3 assists in a little over 21 minutes per game in 39 games with the Nets last season, his second since signing with them as a free agent in 2010. Farmar spent much of last season dealing with nagging groin injuries that kept him out of the lineup for large stretches of the shortened season, including the final 16 games of the season.

Now that Farmar is officially on the books for next season, the Nets now have six players on their roster -- Farmar and fellow guards Anthony Morrow and MarShon Brooks, forward Jordan Williams and center Johan Petro. The Nets now have nearly $12 million in expiring contracts between the deals of Morrow, Petro and Farmar, and over $40 million in cap room entering free agency, which begins at 12:01 a.m. Sunday.

The Newark Star-Ledger first reported Farmar's decision to opt into the final year of his deal.

Courtesy of www.nypost.com


Lamar Odom withdraws from Olympics; Colangelo says nine already on Team USA - by Eurobasket News

Lamar Odom (6'10''-F-79, college: Rhode Island) is the latest Team USA candidate to remove himself from consideration for the London Olympics roster.

USA Basketball chairman Jerry Colangelo said Jeff Schwartz, Odoms agent, called him Monday to inform him of his clients decision, Fox Sports Chris Tomasson reports via Twitter.

Odom told ESPN Los Angeles that rather than participate in the Olympics, hes decided to work with trainers in L.A. and focus on the upcoming season with the Clippers, his new NBA team.

Earlier on Monday, news broke that Anthony Davis sprained an ankle while working out for the New Orleans Hornets on Saturday, putting his Olympic candidacy into serious doubt.

Odoms withdrawal and Davis injury continue the depletion of USA Basketballs pool of candidates. Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh both announced last week that they wont be going to London because of their own health issues. Dwight Howard, Derrick Rose, Chauncey Billups and LaMarcus Aldridge all suffered injuries during the season that will keep them off the team, too.

Nine of the 12 roster spots have already been secured, with the final three being determined at Team USAs training camp in Las Vegas starting on Thursday, Colangelo told Tomasson.

LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, Carmelo Anthony Chris Paul and Deron Williamsall members of the 2008 team that won gold in Beijingas well as 2010 World Championship gold medalists Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, Kevin Love and Tyson Chandler are on the team. That leaves Blake Griffin, Andre Iguodala, Rudy Gay, James Harden, Eric Gordon and Davis, despite his injury, vying for the remaining three spots. Colangelo, has maintained that Davis is a "long shot" to make the team, but said the sprained ankle doesn't necessarily mean he won't be selected.

Courtesy of http://aol.sportingnews.com


Omer Asik agrees to Rockets' three-year, $25 million offer sheet - by Eurobasket News

The Houston Rockets and Omer Asik (7'0''-C-86) have agreed to a three-year, $25 million offer sheet, sources have confirmed. The proposed deal would pay the Bulls backup center approximately $5 million next season, $5 the following season and a whopping $15 million in the third year.

If the Bulls match, which they are expected to do, it would virtually guarantee that Carlos Boozer's contract would have to be amnestied after the 2013-14 season. The Bulls will have three days to match the Rockets offer once Asik signs the offer sheet July 11.

Asik appeared in every game for the Bulls last season and averaged 3.1 points and 5.3 rebounds while backing up Joakim Noah.

The Bulls frontcourt depth is perhaps their greatest strength, and Asik's interior defense is critical to the success of coach Tom Thibodeaus defense.

Courtesy of www.suntimes.com


Sources: Jeremy Lin return to Knicks uncertain - by Eurobasket News

It has been a foregone conclusion for months that Jeremy Lin (6'3''-PG-88, college: Harvard) will re-sign with the New York Knicks, but sources close to the situation say the return of the free agent point guard is not as certain as it once seemed.

While both Lin and the Knicks are hoping for a reunion, sources say that if any clubs offer Lin, a restricted free agent, a backloaded contract that pays him an eight-figure salary in the third and fourth years, the Knicks could be given pause about matching the offer.

With the new collective bargaining agreement employing a more punitive luxury tax, beginning in the 2013-14 season, the Knicks are extremely concerned about the financial ramifications of such a deal.

Toronto is perhaps the only team that might consider offering Lin a backloaded contract, known as a "poison pill" deal. The Raptors are currently going all-out to sign Steve Nash. Toronto has offered Nash a three-year deal worth $36 million, sources told ESPN.com's Marc Stein.

But if Nash, who is also considering Phoenix, New York, Dallas and Brooklyn, rejects Toronto's offer, the Raptors may turn their attention toward Lin.

The Knicks can offer Lin a four-year deal worth $24.5 million. But an opposing team can offer Lin a poison pill that could go as high as $40 million over four years. Such a contract would pay Lin $5 million in each of the first two years and then go as high as $15 million in each of the last two years.

Matching such a contract would give the Knicks four players -- Lin, Carmelo Anthony, Amare Stoudemire and Tyson Chandler -- making more than $14 million in the 2014-2015 season. Those four players alone would have a combined salary of $72 million, nearly $2 million above the luxury tax.

While it may be doubtful that a club goes as high as $15 million in a season for Lin, even if one offered Lin roughly $10 million in the third and fourth years of a contract, the Knicks would be cautious about matching, according to a source.

Toronto, Dallas and Brooklyn have all expressed interest in Lin, according to sources, though he is a backup plan for each of the clubs.

The Knicks have said they plan to let the market dictate Lin's value, so they have not offered him a contract yet. With the ability to match any offer he receives, they plan to wait and see what Lin commands as a free agent. They just hope he doesn't command too much.

Courtesy of ESPN


Clippers in 'advanced talks' with Jamal Crawford - by Eurobasket News

The Los Angeles Clippers are in advanced talks with unrestricted free agent Jamal Crawford (6'5''-G-80, college: Michigan), according to sources close to the situation.

The Clippers are aggressively pursuing Crawford, and are hoping to fly the 32-year-old guard out to Los Angeles later this week for a face-to-face meeting. No deal is imminent, but the talks are ongoing.

Crawford has also drawn interest from the Boston Celtics, Minnesota Timberwolves, Phoenix Suns, Philadelphia 76ers and Indiana Pacers. All six teams contacted Crawford last night. Crawford opted out of the final year of his contract with the Portland Trail Blazers last Wednesday. Last season, Crawford averaged 14.0 points in 60 games with the Trail Blazers.

Courtesy of www.hoopsworld.com


Sources: Andre Miller agrees to re-sign with Nuggets for three years - by Eurobasket News

Nuggets sharpshooters (and fans) can rejoice. Assist machine Andre Miller (6'2''-PG-76, college: Utah) has agreed to re-sign with the Nuggets, two sources said Sunday night.

The 36-year-old point guard is arguably coach George Karl's favorite player because of Miller's ability to make the proper pass and fuel the offense. The sources confirmed that Miller will sign for three years. Financial terms were undisclosed.

Last season, Miller averaged 9.7 points per game and 6.7 assists in 27.4 minutes off the bench, backing up starter Ty Lawson and other times playing alongside him. Miller was instrumental in the Nuggets' Game 5 playoff win at the Lakers, which staved off elimination, thanks in part to Miller's 24 points and eight assists.

Now all attention is turned to JaVale McGee, the Nuggets center who's a restricted free agent. Nuggets executives met with both Miller and McGee in Los Angeles, a source said.
The 24-year-old McGee will be the prize of the Nuggets' summer, if they can convince the big guy to stay. The 7-footer averaged 10.3 points per game and 5.8 rebounds in 20.6 minutes with Denver last season (he was traded midseason from Washington), while averaging 2.2 blocked shots per game, second-most in the league.

But just how much money will Denver have to dish out? A comparison to the potential McGee signing is the Clippers' recent contract with center DeAndre Jordan. Like McGee, He was a restricted free agent before last season, and Los Angeles matched a Golden State offer of four years, $43 million, which averages out to $10.75 million per season.

Teams will make a push for McGee, just as they will with the other coveted centers in his free-agent class, notably Roy Hibbert and Brook Lopez. But one thing going for Denver is, simply, that McGee likes Denver. In the losing locker room after Game 7 against the Lakers, McGee was asked about his future in Denver. He spoke as if he was already signed up.

"I'm just excited to be part of a great organization," said McGee, who averaged 3.1 blocks in the series against the Lakers, his first postseason. " (Playing for the Nuggets) was the best experience I've ever had in basketball. It's just an honor to be a part of this team. This was a great team before I came, so I just tried to add to it. It's a great organization and coaching staff. They put me in more situations that were more suitable for my game."

Courtesy of www.denverpost.com


Hawks trade Joe Johnson to Nets - by Eurobasket News

The Brooklyn Nets have reached an agreement in principle to acquire Atlanta Hawks guard Joe Johnson (6'7''-G-81, college: Arkansas), league sources told Yahoo! Sports.

The trade sends guards Anthony Morrow (6'5''-G-85), Jordan Farmar (6'2''-PG-86, college: UCLA) and DeShawn Stevenson (6'5''-G-81, agency: Priority Sports) and forwards Jordan Williams (6'10''-F-90, college: Maryland) and Johan Petro (7'0''-C-86) to the Hawks, along with a lottery-protected 2013 first-round pick the Nets acquired from the Houston Rockets. Stevenson is a free agent, so he will go to the Hawks in a sign-and-trade deal.

Johnson, 31, has four years and nearly $90 million dollars left on his contract. Shedding his contract gives Atlanta immense cap relief and flexibility moving forward. The Hawks created more flexibility by also reaching agreement on a trade to send Marvin Williams to the Utah Jazz for Devin Harris, league sources confirmed to Y! Sports' Marc Spears. Harris has one year and $8.5 million remaining on his contract. Williams has two years and $15.8 million left on his deal.

The deal for Johnson eliminates the Nets from pursuing a deal with Orlando for All-Star center Dwight Howard in the short-term, but could open the possibility of Atlanta making a bid to bring Howard back to his boyhood home. The Hawks could have $25 million in salary-cap space next summer. They also have attractive young talent, including center Al Horford and guard Jeff Teague, to offer Orlando.

Brooklyn officials and Deron Williams began a 5 p.m. ET meeting for what the Nets hope would be a final walk-through with the All-Star point guard on the organization's plans to surround him with talent and become an Eastern Conference contender.The Magic showed no inclination to negotiate a Howard trade with the Nets, and sources say Williams gave his blessing for general manager Billy King to build a supporting cast without Howard.

The Nets were unsure if Williams would commit to their five-year, $100 million extension on Monday, expecting him to take a little more time to decide between them and the Dallas Mavericks. Nevertheless, the organization has become increasingly confident Williams will decide to stay.

What won't be much a part of the Nets' presentation to Williams: How they'll continue to try and pry All-Star center Dwight Howard out of Orlando. The deal for Johnson along with a $40 million extension for Gerald Wallace and and an eventual $50 milllion-plus deal for center Brook Lopez almost assure the Nets will be out of the Howard derby.

Courtesy of Yahoo! Sports


Detroit Pistons agree on terms of contract with Viacheslav Kravtsov - by Eurobasket News

Detroit Pistons have reached a verbal agreement on terms of contract with Viacheslav Kravtsov (6'11''-C-87, agency: Beo Basket). The Ukrainian centre may pen a deal with the NBA team as soon as the moratorium period ends.
Viacheslav Kravtsov spent the last two seasons with BC Donetsk. He averaged 10.6 points, 5.5 boards, 1.6 blocks per game in Superleague last season. In EuroCup the centre posted 8.2 points, 3.9 boards and 1.7 blocks per appearance. Eurobasket.com named Viacheslav Kravtsov All-Ukrainian Superleague Domestic Player of the Year for the second season in a row. Previously Viacheslav Kravtsov played for BC Kyiv. He was the member of U18 and U20 Ukrainian National Teams. The centre has been the member of Ukrainian National Team since 2006. Kravtsov participated at 2010 NBA Summer League in Orlando.


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


Quebec Kebs set to relocate - by Eurobasket News

The National Basketball League of Canada is proud to announce the acceptance of the transfer of the Quebec KEBS to the City of Laval for the 2012-2013 season.

In six seasons in the old capital, the Quebec team has always been faced with the same problem, or that have a fixed and although home to them. They had to find an alternative to maintain the KEBS in the province of Quebec.

The choice of the owners stopped on the city of Laval, since this Coliseum can accommodate slightly more than 4000 fans. The city will also construct a new amphitheatre 2 or 3 years, making tilt, in the deliberation of the owners and the League Governors. In addition, there is a well-established tradition of basketball, which makes it an ideal place so the KEBS continue to evolve in the professional environment of NBL Canada.

"It is with great pride that we welcome the decision of the League, because they allow us to keep the team in Quebec." "We hoped with all heart the KEBS remain in the province and it is mission accomplished at this point," says Vincent Bernier, general manager of the team.

The KEBS participated the year last in the NBL Canada playoffs, finishing in 3rd in standings of the regular season. Being one of the best teams in the League, it was important that the Organization remains in place in NBL Canada.

The decision taken, the entire team is now ready to tackle the season next forward. The KEBS day camps are still held in Quebec City this summer, and as early as Monday next Yannick Anzuluni will return, to take part.

The KEBS would like to thank all the fans and partners who have supported and encouraged their team for six seasons. To you all, a huge thanks and GO KEBS GO!

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com


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


Mississippi State transfer Rodney Hood chooses Duke - by Eurobasket News

Mississippi State transfer Rodney Hood (6'8''-G-92) was one of the most sought-after transfers on the market this offseason, and he made his decision late Saturday night.

Hood, a 6-foot-8 wing, chose Duke over Ohio State.

I feel like coach [Mike Kryzewski] and the staff can get the most out of me as a player and academically, Hood told ESPN.com. I liked the teammates and felt like we have a good chance to compete for a championship.

Memphis and Florida State were also involved with Hood, who announced after last season that he was leaving the Bulldogs. He averaged 10.0 points and 4.8 rebounds during his freshman season at Mississippi State.

Hood will sit out the upcoming season and have three years of eligibility remaining in 2013-14. Duke also has five-star guard Matt Jones wrapped up in the class of 2013.

Courtesy of www.cbssports.com


UCF guard Marcus Jordan arrested Sunday in Omaha - by Eurobasket News

Marcus Jordan's (6'3''-G-88) offseason has been filled with more highlights for off-court issues than it has anticipation for next season.

Of course, there was the Twitter kerfuffle, where the UCF guard accidentally propositioned a porn star. Next, there were the reports in early June that questioned whether Jordan was returning to the Knights for his senior season.

The latest incident doesn't paint the son of Michael Jordan in a great light, either.

Jordan was arrested early Sunday following a disturbance outside of a hotel in Omaha, Neb. Per reports, police responded to a call at the Embassy Suites in Omaha and found hotel security attempting to subdue Jordan. He was arguing with two women at the hotel and was very animated, intoxicated and uncooperative. A news release says that it took multiple officers to control and eventually handcuff him.

Jordan was booked for resisting arrest, disorderly conduct and obstructing. He was released on Sunday night.

The 6-foot-3 guard from Chicago averaged 13.7 points for UCF last season.

Courtesy of www.cbssports.com


Stu Douglass signs pro deal in Spain - by Eurobasket News

Stu Douglass (6'3''-G-90, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement) will start his professional basketball career in Spain. The American guard signed a deal with Planasa Navarra for the next season. Douglass graduated at the University of Michigan few months ago. He had 7.5 ppg, 2.6 rpg and 2.3 apg for his school as a senior. He helped them reach Big Ten Tournament Semifinals. Michigan did the same in 2011. That season Stu Douglas averaged 7.1 points, 3 rebounds and 1.7 assists.


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


Wilkinson signs with Estonian club - by Hugh McAuliffe

Two-time ANBL championship winner Gary Wilkinson (204-F/C-82, college: Utah St.) appears set to miss the New Zealand Breakers tilt at a three-peat after he reportedly signed in Estonia with local champions BC Kalev/Cramo. Wilkinson played with Puerto Rican club Vaqueros de Bayamon in the 2012 BSN season and in 16 games averaged 16 points and 6 rebounds per game.

Wilkinson was a member of the All-NBL Second Team last season and a key part of the Breakers second successive title win.

Despite this, the club was reportedly keen to develop young local centre Alex Pledger which would have resigned Wilkinson to a reduced role off the bench in season 2012/13.

In April Wilkinson made it clear he knew the clubs priority lay with Pledger.

"Obviously I've got a lot of years playing in me and if they see Chief [Pledger] as their future then we just have to see how that is going to work. I am more than happy to watch Chief flourish because he deserves it, he said.

"I would love to have a three-peat, but it's a matter of where the organisation is headed and where I fit into the whole scheme of things. With the Chief making huge strides, I would bank on him in the future."


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


Olympic Qualifying Tournament: Venezuela sneak past Nigeria - by Eurobasket News

Venezuela - Nigeria 71:69

Venezuela earned a vital win in their quest for the Olympic birth this year. They took down Nigeria in the Olympic Qualifying Tournament opener. The hosts were paced by 24 points from Greivis Vasquez (198-PG-87, agency: Interperformances, college: Maryland). It was a tough battle from start to finish. Nigeria led by a single point 18:17 ten minutes into the game. Venezuela turned things around in the second quarter taking a 29:27 halftime lead. Nigeria cut the deficit back to a single point at the final intermission 51:50. The teams stayed neck and neck throughout the fourth period. Venezuela eked out a 71:69 lead and then Hector Romero (202-F/C-80, college: New Orleans) came up with a crucial block late in regulation to seal the victory for the home team. David Cubillan (183-PG-87, college: Marquette) tallied 13 points, 6 assists and 5 boards, while Hector Romero added 10 points for the winners. Ike Diogu (204-F/C-83, college: Arizona St.) answered with 14 points and 10 rebounds for Nigeria. Ekenechukwu Ibekwe (206-F-85, college: Maryland) finished with 12 points in the loss.

Venezuela: Greivis Vasquez 24, David Cubillan 13, Hector Romero 10
Nigeria: Ike Diogu 14+10 boards, Ekenechukwu Ibekwe 12


Vasquez and friends derail D'Tigers - by Iwedi Ojinmah

At the end Nigeria had herself to blame as she failed with her comeback due to sloppy finishing and fell to hosts Venezuela by a lone basket 71-69 last night in the OQT.

Trailing repetitiously to the South Americans-sometimes in double figures- DTigers simply refused to wilt and clawed their way back into the game over and over. .

But it was not to be as NBA star and top scorer Vasquez and friends proved too much despite horrible shooting from the line. .

However it was not all bad news for Nigeria who now face an uphill task getting past giant Lithuania in their next game.

Both relative unknowns Ibekwe and Aminu had monster games and one can only question why Ibekwe was left so long on the bench..

His game -despite him missing the final basket that would have tied the game - shone just like his neon yellow shoes, as his tenacity infected the West Africans in the 2 final quarters..

Aminu meanwhile rained clutch 3s on the Venezuelans..

D Tigers next game is on Wednesday.


Nigerian National Team 2012 - by Greg

Starting five
#s#
Ekenechukwu Ibekwe
Ibekwe
Ike Diogu
Diogu
Al-Farouq Aminu
Aminu
Adeola Dagunduro
Dagunduro
Chamberlain Oguchi
Oguchi
#e#5
4 Tony Skinn 191-G-83 Ironi Ashkelon Israel
5 Ekenechukwu Ibekwe 210-F-85 Bayreuth Germany
6 Ike Diogu 208-F/C-83 Arecibo Puerto Rico
7 Al-Farouq Aminu 206-F-90 N.Orleans H. USA
8 Adeola Dagunduro 195-G-86 Leuven Belgium
9 Chamberlain Oguchi 198-SG-86 Meralco Bolts Philippines
10 Koko Archibong 206-F-81 LTi 46ers Germany
11 Richard Oruche 193-SG-87 Academica Portugal
12 Ejike Ugboaja 206-F-85 Jahesh Iran
13 Derrick Obasohan 198-F-81 Cocodrilos Venezuela
14 Alade Aminu 210-C-87 Chalon France
15 Oyedeji Olumide 210-C-81 Qingdao E. China

Ayo Bakare Head Coach Comets Nigeria



*****************************************************
  OLYMPIC GAMES   

Standings

Standings
Group A
1. Argentina0-0
2. France0-0
3. Tunisia0-0
4. USA0-0
Group B
1. Australia0-0
2. Brazil0-0
3. Chile0-0
4. U.Kingdom0-0
5. Spain0-0
Group Qualification Gr.A
1. Greece1-0
2. P.Rico0-0
3. Jordan0-1
Group Qualification Gr.B
1. Venezuela1-0
2. Lithuania0-0
3. Nigeria0-1
Group Qualification Gr.C
1. Russia1-0
2. Dominican R.0-0
3. S.Korea0-1
Group Qualification Gr.D
1. Angola1-0
2. N.Zealand0-0
3. FYR Macedo.0-1

Additional Qualifying Round: Round 1

Qual. A

Jul. 2: GRE - JOR 107-63

Qual. B

Jul. 2: NGR - VEN 69-71

Qual. C

Jul. 2: RUS - KOR 91-56

Qual. D

Jul. 2: ANG - MKD 88-84

Additional Qualifying Round: Round 2

Qual. A

Jul. 3: JOR - PUR

Qual. B

Jul. 3: VEN - LTU

Qual. C

Jul. 3: KOR - DOM

Qual. D

Jul. 3: MKD - NZL


Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Eduardo MINGAS
  (200-F-79)
  Avg: 24
 1. Mingas, ANG24.0 
 2. Vasquez, VEN24.0 
 3. Cipriano, ANG23.0 
 4. McCalebb, MKD21.0 
 5. Papanikolaou, GRE19.0 
 6. Morais, ANG18.0 
 7. Antic, MKD17.0 
 8. Printezis, GRE16.0 
 9. Kirilenko, RUS16.0 
 10. Mavroeidis, GRE15.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Joaquim GOMES
  (200-C/F-80)
  Avg: 11
 1. Gomes, ANG11.0 
 2. Diogu, NGR10.0 
 3. Khryapa, RUS9.0 
 4. Echenique, VEN9.0 
 5. Samardziski, MKD7.0 
 6. Abbas, JOR7.0 
 7. Bourousis, GRE7.0 
 8. Printezis, GRE7.0 
 9. Mozgov, RUS7.0 
 10. Kirilenko, RUS6.0 
Assists Per Game
 Vassilis SPANOULIS
  (193-G-82)
  Avg: 7
 1. Spanoulis, GRE7.0 
 2. Mingas, ANG6.0 
 3. Cubillan, VEN6.0 
 4. Ilievski, MKD5.0 
 5. Fotsis, GRE5.0 
 6. McCalebb, MKD5.0 
 7. Soobzokov, JOR4.0 
 8. Skinn, NGR4.0 
 9. Kim, KOR4.0 
 10. Dagunduro, NGR4.0 
Steals Per Game
 Andrei KIRILENKO
  USA
  (206-F-81)
  Avg: 4
 1. Kirilenko, RUS4.0 
 2. Kim, KOR4.0 
 3. Khryapa, RUS4.0 
 4. Stojanovski, MKD3.0 
 5. Yang, KOR3.0 
 6. Vasquez, VEN3.0 
 7. Skinn, NGR3.0 
 8. Daghles, JOR2.0 
 9. Sandrin, KOR2.0 
 10. Shved, RUS2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Olumide OYEDEJI
  NGR
  (210-C-81)
  Avg: 3
 1. Oyedeji, NGR3.0 
 2. Ibekwe, NGR2.0 
 3. Mozgov, RUS2.0 
 4. Sandrin, KOR2.0 
 5. Echenique, VEN2.0 
 6. Yoon, KOR2.0 
 7. Aminu, NGR2.0 
 8. Graterol, VEN2.0 
 9. Bourousis, GRE2.0 
 10. Cox, VEN1.0 


Britain's Olympic hoops team without Ben Gordon - by Eurobasket News

Britain has lost a second NBA player for the men's basketball tournament at the Olympic Games after Ben Gordon (188-G-83, college: Connecticut) failed to link up with the squad at its training camp in the United States.

Britain coach Chris Spice says the guard couldn't commit to playing for the host nation after he was traded from the Detroit Pistons to the Charlotte Bobcats on Tuesday.

Spice says "It's really disappointing as he's a world-class player who would have made a huge difference."

With Bobcats center Byron Mullens out because of injury, it leaves Britain with only one NBA player - Chicago Bulls forward Luol Deng.

The London-born Gordon hasn't played for Britain despite being named in squads since 2008.

Britain was allowed to compete at the Olympics by the International Basketball Federation despite not qualifying.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com


Olympic Qualifying Tournament. Results and Stats from Day 1 in Caracas - by Eurobasket News

Group Qual. A
Greece - Jordan 107-63
Greece had little problems in their Olympic Qualifying Tournament opener. They cruised past Jordan A opener. Kostas Papanikolaou (206-F-90) came up with 19 points to lead the effort. The teams stayed close throughout opening minutes. But the Hellenes bridged the first and second quarter with a 30:2 run to take a 42:12 lead. They arrived at the interval up by 35 points 53:18. Jordan had little to answer with throughout the third quarter. Greece established a comfortable 85:43 lead into the fourth frame. The Hellenes easily passed 100-point mark and cruised to the victory at the end. Georgios Printezis (206-F-85, agency: FCM) delivered 16 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists, while Dimitrios Mavroeidis (208-C-85, agency: FCM) added 15 points for the winners. Enver Soobzokov (201-G/F-78, college: CS San Bernar.) answered with 14 points for Jordan. Zaid Abbas finished with 11 points and 7 rebounds in the loss.

Group Qual. B
Nigeria - Venezuela 69-71
Venezuela earned a vital win in their quest for the Olympic birth this year. They took down Nigeria in the Olympic Qualifying Tournament opener. The hosts were paced by 24 points from Greivis Vasquez (198-PG-87, agency: Interperformances, college: Maryland). It was a tough battle from start to finish. Nigeria led by a single point 18:17 ten minutes into the game. Venezuela turned things around in the second quarter taking a 29:27 halftime lead. Nigeria cut the deficit back to a single point at the final intermission 51:50. The teams stayed neck and neck throughout the fourth period. Venezuela eked out a 71:69 lead and then Hector Romero came up with a crucial block late in regulation to seal the victory for the home team. David Cubillan tallied 13 points, 6 assists and 5 boards, while Hector Romero added 10 points for the winners. Ike Diogu answered with 14 points and 10 rebounds for Nigeria. Ekenechukwu Ibekwe (206-F-85, college: Maryland) finished with 12 points in the loss.

Group Qual. C
Russia - South Korea 91-56
Russia outscore South Korea in the opener of the Olympic Qualifying Tournament. The European favorites did not have any difficulties reaching 91:56 win. Russia grabbed the lead from the very beginning and reached 27:16 after the first period. Timofey Mozgov (216-C-86, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav) closed the period with a jump shot for 11-point lead at the end of the frame. Andrei Kirilenko (206-F-81) brought 33:18, while Sasha Kaun closed the run at 38:18. Sekeun Oh reduced to 44:22, while Sunhyung Kim was the last to score at the half for 45:26. Timofey Mozgov opened the third period for 47:26 and he actually scored another four points for the Russian squad. South Korea managed to cut it to 51:32, while Taesul Kim scored for 54:33. Sasha Kaun, Khryapa and Andrei Kirilenko delivered for 61:35 with 3 minutes to go in the third period. Fridzon and Timofey Mozgov scored for 67:40 and then Jinsoo Choi closed the third period at 67:42. Sergey Monya nailed three in the start of the last stanza to bring his team 70:43. Russia looked better in every aspect of the game and reached 91:56 win at the end. Andrei Kirilenko paced all the winners with 16 points, while Sergey Monya nailed 14. Timofey Mozgov and Sasha Kaun followed them with 12 points each. Lee Jung-Hyun responded with 15 and Yang Hee-Jong had 9.

Group Qual. D
Angola - FYR Macedonia 88-84
Angola opened their Olympic Qualifying Tournament campaign with victory. They held off FYR Macedonia in the first game in Group D in Caracas. Eduardo Mingas (200-F-79) scored 24 points to lead the African powerhouse. Angola surprised the European team with 32 points in the first quarter to take an 11-point lead. Angola maintained the advantage throughout the second quarter. They established a 53:40 halftime lead. The teams exchanged baskets throughout the third quarter as Angola secured a 13-point lead before the fourth frame. FYR Macedonia went on a desperate rescue rally in the final term cutting the deficit to minimum but Angola withstood the threat and eked out victory at the end. Olimpio Cipriano posted 23 points, while Carlos Morais (190-G-85) added 18 points in the win. Bo McCalebb (183-PG-85, college: New Orleans) answered with 21 points for FYR Macedonia. Pero Antic (210-F-82, agency: Beo Basket) finished with 17 points in the loss.

<<>><<>>


*****************************************************
  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, Meralco31.8 
 3. David, Powerade T.26.4 
 4. Hickerson, Barako26.2 
 5. Sneed, Powerade T.25.7 
 6. Bozeman, Ginebra24.7 
 7. Blakely, B-Meg L.23.7 
 8. Harris, Talk N Text23.6 
 9. Forte, Alaska Aces23.5 
 10. Cornley, Rain o.23.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Omar SNEED
  Powerade T.
  (198-F-76)
  Avg: 17
 1. Sneed, Powerade T.17.0 
 2. Forte, Alaska Aces15.6 
 3. Graham, Air21 E.12.6 
 4. Harris, Talk N Text12.1 
 5. Blakely, B-Meg L.12.1 
 6. Taulava, Meralco11.1 
 7. Cornley, Rain o.10.3 
 8. Bozeman, Ginebra10.2 
 9. Pingris, B-Meg L.9.7 
 10. Santos, Petron B.8.4 
Assists Per Game
 Jimmy ALAPAG
  Talk N Text
  (177-PG-77)
  Avg: 7
 1. Alapag, Talk N Te.7.0 
 2. Casio, Powerade T.6.4 
 3. Bozeman, Ginebra5.7 
 4. Hickerson, Barako5.5 
 5. Sneed, Powerade T.5.3 
 6. Tenorio, Alaska A.5.2 
 7. Ross, Meralco4.8 
 8. Miller, Barako Bull4.8 
 9. Cabagnot, Petron4.6 
 10. Lutz, Petron Bla.4.0 
Steals Per Game
 Mario WEST
  Meralco .
  (195-G-84)
  Avg: 3.4
 1. West, Meralco3.4 
 2. Blakely, B-Meg L.3.4 
 3. Basden, Petron B.2.4 
 4. Tenorio, Alaska A.1.6 
 5. Anthony, Powerade.1.3 
 6. Bozeman, Ginebra1.3 
 7. Cortez, Ginebra1.3 
 8. Ross, Meralco1.2 
 9. Seigle, Barako Bull1.2 
 10. Caguioa, Ginebra1.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Marqus BLAKELY
  B-Meg L.
  (196-F-89)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Blakely, B-Meg L.2.8 
 2. Hickerson, Barako2.2 
 3. Forte, Alaska Aces1.6 
 4. Santos, Petron B.1.4 
 5. Baguio, Alaska Ac.1.4 
 6. West, Meralco1.4 
 7. Aguilar, Talk N.1.3 
 8. Maierhofer, Ginebr.1.1 
 9. Thoss, Alaska Aces1.1 
 10. Washington, Petro.1.0 



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


Energa Czarni confirms signing of Oded Brandwein - by Eurobasket News

As expected, Oded Brandwein (188-G-88, agency: N.E.T.) will play next season for Energa Czarni Slupsk. The news is officially confirmed by the club today. Brandwein, who received Polish passport in 2010, arrives to Energa Czarni from Kotwica Kolobrzeg. He appeared 37 times for them last season averaging 12.2 points, 4 assists and 1.9 rebounds. It was his first year in Poland. Before that, Oded Brandwein spent few seasons in Israel. In 2010/11, he was a member of Elitzur Yavne. They competed in National League, where Brandwein had 9.5 ppg, 2 apg and 1.4 rpg for 21 games. The player split 2009/10 season between Elitzur Ramla and Hapoel Afula. He also has experience from Maccabi Hod Hasharon, Bnei Hasharon and Bney Herzeliya junior squad. In 2006 and 2008, Brandwein played for Israeli U20 and U18 National Teams.


Energa Czarni signs 2-year deal with Michal Nowakowski - by Eurobasket News

Michal Nowakowski (202-F-88) is a new member of Energa Czarni. The Polish forward signed a 2-year deal with the club. He spent last two seasons with 1Liga team Tempcold AZS Politechnika Warszawa. He had 10.6 ppg, 3.8 rpg and 1.2 apg for 35 games in the latest one. The player had slightly better numbers in 2010/11. Nowakowski played for Polonia Warszawa from 2007 to 2009. In their second season together he also played for AZS Politechnika on loan. The team competed in 2Liga at that time. In 2009 and 2011, Michal Nowakowski won 1Liga title with Polonia and AZS Politechnika. In the past, he played for the Polish U20, U18 and U16 National Teams.


PGE Turow brings in Serbian guard Djordje Micic - by Eurobasket News

PGE Turow signed Djordje Micic (195-G-83) for the next season. The Serbian guard is not a new face in Poland as he spent last season with PBG Basket Poznan. He played 37 games for them in PLK averaging 15.7 points, 4.5 assists and 2.6 rebounds. Micic was fifth scorer of the league and he was named Eurobasket.com Polish League All-Bosmans Team -12.
In 2010/11 season Djordje Micic played only two official games. He was a member of EWE Baskets Oldenburg, but they parted ways in December of 2010. In 2009/10, Micic played for the Serbian squad Napredak Krusevac. He was their key player with 16.5 ppg, 3.4 rpg and 2.1 apg for 19 games in Serbian league. Micic also has experience from Igokea, Keravnos, Union Olimpija, FMP Zeleznik and Borac Cacak. He played for the Serbian University National Team in the past.


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


U Mobitelco Cluj-Napoca hires Niksa Bavcevic as new Head Coach - by Eurobasket News

Niksa Bavcevic (agency: Interperformances) left Split to take over Romanian squad U Mobitelco Cluj-Napoca. The Croatian specialist signed a 2-year deal with the club. Bavcevic joined Split in January this year and helped them reach the Playoff Semifinals in Croatia. The team also played in Cup Semis. Bavcevic started the season with Jolly Jadranska Banka Sibenik, but they parted ways in November.
Niksa Bavcevic is not a new face in Romania and he already worked there. He was a Head Coach of Steaua Turabo Bucuresti in 2010/11 season. They reached Romanian Cup Finals and League Semis together. In 2009/10, Bavcevic coached Trogir and before that he worked with Roseto and Avtodor Saratov. From 2005 to 2007, he worked with Belgian Dexia Mons-Hainaut winning the Cup trophy with them (2006). From 1999 to 2005, Niksa Bavcevic was Head Coach of Pepinster. In 2003, he was named Eurobasket Belgian League Coach of the Year.


Targu Mures wants to sign Tomislav Ivosev - by Eurobasket News

According to Romanian media (Totalbaschet.ro), BC Mures Targu Mures is close to sign a deal with Tomislav Ivosev (204-F-90). Reportedly, president of the club Cornel Lungu announced this news in interview for the local newspapers. Ivosev spent last season in Hungary. He played 25 games with Naturtex-SZTE-Szedeak Szeged averaging 20.4 points, 8.6 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 2.2 steals. The team ended as No.11 in the league with 8-18 record. For his performance Ivosev was awarded with Eurobasket.com Hungarian League All-Bosmans Team -12. He participated at the Hungarian League All-Star Game.
Before Szdeak, Tomislav Ivosev spent one season with Vojvodina Novi Sad. He had 15.7 ppg, 7.5 rpg and 2 spg for 26 games in Serbian second division. He was named Eurobasket.com All-Serbian B League Honorable Mention -11.


CSU Sibiu lands American C Kramer Knutson - by Eurobasket News

Kramer Knutson (205-F/C-89, college: Portland) is a new member of CSU Sibiu. The American center signed a deal for the next season. It will be his second year as a pro. Last season Knutson spent with Swiss BBC Nyon. He played 24 games with them in LNA registering 11.5 ppg, 8.3 rpg, 1.7 bpg and 1.5 spg. Knutson was second shot blocker and fourth rebounder of the competition.
Kramer Knutson graduated at the University of Portland something more than a year ago. He had 6.2 ppg, 5.1 rpg and 1.5 bpg for them in 31 games as a senior. Knutson spent all four years with the school. They reached WCC Tournament Semifinals in 2009 and 2010.


*****************************************************
  RUSSIA   


Olympic Qualifying Tournament: Russia outscore South Korea in the opener - by Eurobasket News

Russia- South Korea 91:56

Russia outscore South Korea in the opener of the Olympic Qualifying Tournament. The European favorites did not have any difficulties reaching 91:56 win.
Russia grabbed the lead from the very beginning and reached 27:16 after the first period. Timofey Mozgov (216-C-86, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav) closed the period with a jump shot for 11-point lead at the end of the frame. Andrei Kirilenko (205-F-81) brought 33:18, while Sasha Kaun (211-C-85) closed the run at 38:18. Sekeun Oh reduced to 44:22, while Sunhyung Kim was the last to score at the half for 45:26.
Timofey Mozgov opened the third period for 47:26 and he actually scored another four points for the Russian squad. South Korea managed to cut it to 51:32, while Taesul Kim scored for 54:33. Sasha Kaun, Khryapa and Andrei Kirilenko delivered for 61:35 with 3 minutes to go in the third period. Fridzon and Timofey Mozgov scored for 67:40 and then Jinsoo Choi closed the third period at 67:42.
Sergey Monya (203-F-83) nailed three in the start of the last stanza to bring his team 70:43. Russia looked better in every aspect of the game and reached 91:56 win at the end.
Andrei Kirilenko paced all the winners with 16 points, while Sergey Monya nailed 14. Timofey Mozgov and Sasha Kaun followed them with 12 points each. Lee Jung-Hyun (190-F-87) responded with 15 and Yang Hee-Jong (194-F-84) had 9.

Russia: Andrei Kirilenko 16, Sergey Monya 14, Timofey Mozgov 12, Sasha Kaun 12
South Korea:Lee Jung-Hyun 15, Yang Hee-Jong 9


*****************************************************
  SAN MARINO   


San Marino overcame Wales at the end of Day 1 - by Eurobasket News

San Marino-Wales 58:53

San Marino overcame Wales at the end of Day 1 at the European Championship Small Countries. The hosts of the tournament grabbed 58:53 in the last game of the day.
Wales took 15:14 after the first period and added 14-11 in the second frame. The third quarter however was decisive in the game and brought 21-10 for the home side. Enrico Zanotti (195-C-90) and Stefano Rossini (183-G-74) brought 53:46, while Pearce cut it to 5 points. Enrico Zanotti later made two free throws for 58:52 and Williams made the final result in the game. Although Wales won the last period 14-12 they managed to reduce only to 5.
Enrico Zanotti top-scored for the winners with 16 points and 12 rebounds, while Andrea Raschi (200-G/F-79) delivered 12 points and 11 rebounds. Federico Cardinali (183-G-91) notched 9 and Stefano Rossini scored 8. Ioan Nickson posted 16 points in defeat and Alan Duppa (199-F/C-80) had 10.

San Marino: Enrico Zanotti 16+12 rebs, Andrea Raschi 12+11 rebs, Federico Cardinali 9, Stefano Rossini 8
Wales: Ioan Nickson 16, Alan Duppa 10


*****************************************************
  SCOTLAND   


Malta successfully opens Small Countries 2012 campaign - by Eurobasket News

Malta -Scotland 75:64

Malta started their Division C of the European Championship of the Small Countries Men 2012 with the win over Scotland.
The Maltese squad opened the game with 24-14 and dominated the first half. They added 15-9 in the second frame and enjoyed 39:23 halftime advantage. In the third period Scotland bounced back with 23-17 and reduced to 10 points entering the last stanza. Darryl Jackson, college: N.Mexico) scored for 61:53, while Alistair Mackay brought 61:55. Danny Huffor (193-G, college: Newberry) and Steve Schembri (187-SF-79) exchanged the baskets for 63:56 and Samuel Deguara (224-C-91) made two free throws for the double digit lead. Omar Said (177-PG-80) nailed a three-pointer for 69:56 when it became clear about the winner. Samuel Deguara later made it 70:58, while Omar Said and Samuel Deguara scored for 73:59. Steve Schembri and Glass exchanged meanwhile the last shots in the game.
Samuel Deguara paced all the winners with 21 points and 10 rebounds, while Darryl Jackson poured in 15. Omar Said netted 14 and Steve Schembri added 11. Danny Huffor ended up with 17 points in the losing case, while Nicholas Collins (200-F-84) collected 16 points and 10 boards. Gareth Murray (201-F-84, agency: Prossin Sports Management, college: Kalamazoo Valley CC) followed them with 14 points.

Malta: Samuel Deguara 21+10 rebs, Darryl Jackson 15, Omar Said 14, Steve Schembri 11
Scotland: Danny Huffor 17, Nicholas Collins 16+10 rebs, Gareth Murray 14


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


Serbia clinch title in Ruma - by Eurobasket News

Serbia U20 - Turkey U20 75:58

Serbia registered the third straight win and clinched the title at international tournament in Ruma. The hosts denied Turkish effort in the final round. Bogdan Bogdanovic (198-F-92) accounted for 16 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists to lead the home team. He was named the MVP of the tourney.
Turkey led by 7 points at the end of the first quarter 20:13. But Serbia ignited a 22:8 run in the second frame to take a 35:28 halftime lead. The margin just kept on growing in the second half. Serbia entered the final quarter up by 13 points and coasted to the victory at the end. Luka Mitrovic (204-F/C-93) accounted for 12 points for Serbia. Nemanja Besovic (221-C-92) added 10 points in the winning effort. Ramazan Tekin (212-C-93) answered with 13 points for Turkey. Samet Geyik (205-PF-93) chipped in 11 points in the loss.

Serbia U20: Bogdan Bogdanovic 16, Luka Mitrovic 12, Nemanja Besovic 10
Turkey U20: Ramazan Tekin 13, Samet Geyik 11


Partizan lands young French star Leo Westermann - by Eurobasket News

Partizan penned a three-year deal with Leo Westermann (198-G-92, agency: Beo Basket). One of the top French prospects officially parted ways with ASVEL yesterday.
Leo Westermann joined ASVEL two years ago from CFBB. Last season he had 8.8 ppg, 3.3 apg and 2.6 rpg for 29 games in ProA. The player also added 6 ppg, 3.6 apg and 2.2 rpg for 12 games in EuroCup. In 2010/11, Westermann had lower numbers.
Leo Westermann is one of the top French prospects. He participated at the 2012 Nike Hoop Summit (World Team Selection) and last year he played at Adidas Eurocamp in Treviso. Westermann helped U20 France to win the Bronze at U20 EuroBasket 2011 in Spain. He had 10 ppg, 3 rpg and 2.3 apg for 9 games at this event. In the past, he very successfully played for U18 and U16 France. Last season Westermann was the winner of French ProA All-Star Game Skills Challenge.
Leo Westermann participated at the 2012 Nike Hoop Summit, which was held in Portland earlier this year. He was in the starting five for the World Select Team and spent 28 minutes on the court. He had 4 points and 2 assists, while his team captured an 84-75 win over the USA Junior National Select Team.


PGE Turow brings in Serbian guard Djordje Micic - by Eurobasket News

PGE Turow signed Djordje Micic (195-G-83) for the next season. The Serbian guard is not a new face in Poland as he spent last season with PBG Basket Poznan. He played 37 games for them in PLK averaging 15.7 points, 4.5 assists and 2.6 rebounds. Micic was fifth scorer of the league and he was named Eurobasket.com Polish League All-Bosmans Team -12.
In 2010/11 season Djordje Micic played only two official games. He was a member of EWE Baskets Oldenburg, but they parted ways in December of 2010. In 2009/10, Micic played for the Serbian squad Napredak Krusevac. He was their key player with 16.5 ppg, 3.4 rpg and 2.1 apg for 19 games in Serbian league. Micic also has experience from Igokea, Keravnos, Union Olimpija, FMP Zeleznik and Borac Cacak. He played for the Serbian University National Team in the past.


Serbian National Team 2012 - by Greg

Serbian National Team 2012
#s#
Milos Teodosic
Teodosic
Stefan Markovic
Markovic
Milenko Tepic
Tepic
Aleksandar Rasic
Rasic
Danilo Andjusic
Andjusic
#e#5
Milos Teodosic 195-G-87 CSKA Russia
Stefan Markovic 194-G-88 Valencia Spain
Milenko Tepic 198-G-87 Cajasol Spain
Aleksandar Rasic 194-G-84 Lietuvos rytas Lithuania
Danilo Andjusic 197-G-91 Partizan Serbia
Nemanja Jaramaz 201-G-91 Angelico BI Italy
Nemanja Nedovic 192-PG-91 Lietuvos rytas Lithuania
Ivan Paunic 194-G-87 CS Bologna Italy
Marko Keselj 205-F-88 Olympiacos Greece
Mladen Jeremic 196-G-88 Hemofarm Serbia
Andreja Milutinovic 199-G-90 Crvena Zvezda Serbia
Nemanja Bjelica 209-F/C-88 Caja Laboral Spain
Vladimir Lucic 202-F-89 Partizan Serbia
Novica Velickovic 205-F-86 Real Madrid Spain
Dusko Savanovic 204-F/C-83 Anadolu Efes Turkey
Zoran Erceg 210-C/F-85 Besiktas Turkey
Milan Macvan 206-C-89 Partizan Serbia
Dragan Labovic 207-C/F-87 N.Novgorod Russia
Nenad Krstic 213-C-83 CSKA Russia
Kosta Perovic 217-C-85 FCB Regal Spain
Milovan Rakovic 208-C-85 Montepaschi Italy
Miroslav Raduljica 213-C-88 Partizan Serbia
Dejan Musli 213-C-91 Mega Vizura Serbia
Mile Ilic 215-C-84 Crvena Zvezda Serbia

Dusan Ivkovic Head Coach Olympiacos Greece



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


Nasir Robinson starts his pro career with Komarno - by Eurobasket News

American forward Nasir Robinson (195-F-89, agency: TSS Management, college: Pittsburgh) signed his first professional contract with the Slovakian team and will arrive to the country on the 6th of August! The 195 cm tall all-around forward was one of the best players of the Pittsburgh Panthers averaging 11.0 points, 6.6 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game in one of the strongest conference in the NCAA. With the Panthers he won the Big East Conference Regular Season in 2011 and attended the NCAA Tournament 3 times with his team - in 2009 the Panthers reached the Sweet Sixteen.
He joined NCAA team in 2008-2009 and debuted with 1.2ppg, 1.2rpg. In 2009-2010 for Pittsburgh (NCAA, starting five) he averaged 6.6ppg, 5.6rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 49.5%, 3PT: 31.3%, FT: 41.9%. In 2010-2011 Travis improved to 9.4ppg, 4.9rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 54.8%, FT: 52.6%. That year for Pittsburgh Panthers he was ranked second in Big East Conference in field goal percentage (.548). He reached double figure scoring in eight of the season's last 11 games. Nasir registered a season and game-high 21 points (8-12 FG) and grabbed seven rebounds vs. Syracuse.


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


Nebojsa Joksimovic stays with Bosnian runner-up - by Eurobasket News

Nebojsa Joksimovic (191-SF-81) will play at least one more season with Bosnian runner-up Igokea. The former Slovenian NT member penned a one-year contract extension this past weekend. Joksimovic arrived to Igokea in 2010 from Scavolini Pesaro. He had 8.7 ppg, 2.3 rpg, 2.9 apg and 2.5 spg for 31 games last season in Bosnia. He had almost the same numbers in 2010/11. Igokea reached Bosnian league Finals this year and booked a spot for Adriatic league, where they also competed a year ago.
As mentioned above, before Igokea Nebojsa Joksimovic played for Scavolini Pesaro. He signed there in January of 2010 collecting 8.9 ppg, 2.4 rpg and 2 apg for 9 EuroChallenge games. His numbers in Italian league were lower. Joksimovic started that season with Russian Lokomotiv Kuban. In the past, he played for Hemofarm, Pivovarna Lasko and Koper. He also played couple of years for the Slovenian NT.


Slovenia and Bosnia and Herzegovina trade victories - by Eurobasket News

Slovenian and Bosnian U16 National Team exchanged victories in friendly series in Slovenj Gradec.
The hosts claimed a 57:50 win in Game 1. Trailing by four points after the opening quarter Slovenia picked up the tempo in the next periods and rolled to a 45:36 lead at the final break. They held off Bosnia and Herzegovina in the final quarter and earned a tough win at the end. Matej Kavas (193-G-96) came up with 18 points for Slovenia. Tilen Kodrin (202-SF-96) added 12 points for the winners.
Next game had a different scenario. The visitors surged ahead for a 25:15 lead ten minutes into the game. Slovenia narrowed the deficit at 5-point mark at the interval. But Bosnia and Herzegovina regained control in the second half and rolled to the 75:67 win at the end. Balic chipped in 18 points for Bosnia and Herzegovina. Djorde Aleksic (184-SG-96) added 13 points for the winning team. Matej Kavas answered with 23 points for Slovenia. Sajevic had 9 points in the loss.


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  SOUTH AMERICAN CHAMPIONSHIPS   


Venezuela moved on to the second round - by Wolfgang Lucena

Venezuela played a heroic defense during the last quarter of tonight's game to defeated Nigeria 71-69 on its first appearance of the 2012 FIBA Olympic Qualifying tournament held in Caracas Venezuela.
Venezuela aka The Vinotinto, moved on to the second round of this qualifying tourney to this way increase its hopes to take one of the spots available toward the Olympic Games London 2012. Greivis Vasquez (198-PG-87), David Cubillan (183-PG-87, college: Marquette) and Hector Romero (202-F/C-80, college: New Orleans) led the offense with 24, 13 and 10 points while Hector Romero, Windi Graterol (203-F/C-86) and Gregory Echenique (205-C-90) were tremendous defending Venezuelas hoops. Despite the defeat, Nigeria had its best man on Ike Diogu (204-F/C-83, college: Arizona St.) with 14 points followed by Ekenechukwu Ibekwe (206-F-85, college: Maryland) with 12 and Anthony Skinner with 10.

@Lucena1105



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  SOUTH KOREA   


Olympic Qualifying Tournament: Russia outscore South Korea in the opener - by Eurobasket News

Russia- South Korea 91:56

Russia outscore South Korea in the opener of the Olympic Qualifying Tournament. The European favorites did not have any difficulties reaching 91:56 win.
Russia grabbed the lead from the very beginning and reached 27:16 after the first period. Timofey Mozgov (216-C-86, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav) closed the period with a jump shot for 11-point lead at the end of the frame. Andrei Kirilenko (205-F-81) brought 33:18, while Sasha Kaun (211-C-85) closed the run at 38:18. Sekeun Oh reduced to 44:22, while Sunhyung Kim was the last to score at the half for 45:26.
Timofey Mozgov opened the third period for 47:26 and he actually scored another four points for the Russian squad. South Korea managed to cut it to 51:32, while Taesul Kim scored for 54:33. Sasha Kaun, Khryapa and Andrei Kirilenko delivered for 61:35 with 3 minutes to go in the third period. Fridzon and Timofey Mozgov scored for 67:40 and then Jinsoo Choi closed the third period at 67:42.
Sergey Monya (203-F-83) nailed three in the start of the last stanza to bring his team 70:43. Russia looked better in every aspect of the game and reached 91:56 win at the end.
Andrei Kirilenko paced all the winners with 16 points, while Sergey Monya nailed 14. Timofey Mozgov and Sasha Kaun followed them with 12 points each. Lee Jung-Hyun (190-F-87) responded with 15 and Yang Hee-Jong (194-F-84) had 9.

Russia: Andrei Kirilenko 16, Sergey Monya 14, Timofey Mozgov 12, Sasha Kaun 12
South Korea:Lee Jung-Hyun 15, Yang Hee-Jong 9


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  SPAIN   


UCAM Murcia offers deal to Alex Tyus - by Eurobasket News

According to Spanish media (Solobasket.com), UCAM Murcia wants to sign Alex Tyus (203-F-88, college: Florida) for the next season. Reportedly, they already offered him a deal. Tyus spent last season with Israeli Maccabi Ashdod. He shined with 12.6 ppg, 8.5 rpg and 1.4 bpg for 30 games and they reached Premier League Finals. For his performance, Tyus was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Israeli League Sixth Man of the Year -12. He was also named Eurobasket.com All-Israeli League 2nd Team -12. It was the first year for Tyus as a pro.
Alex Tyus graduated at the University of Florida something more than a year ago. He had 9.1 ppg and 6.2 rpg for his school as a senior. They reached NCAA Elite Eight. Florida also played in SEC Tournament Finals in 2011.


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  SWITZERLAND   


Larry O'Bannon joins SAV Vacallo - by Luca Maffioli

SAV Vacallo Basket officially announced the signing of Larry O'Bannon (194-G-83, agency: Interperformances, college: Louisville).. The American player has agreed on terms of contract with SAV Basket. He signed a one-year deal. The 29-years old guard spent last season in Argentina. He played 49 games in Aerochaco Boca Juniors Capital Feder averaging 16.1 points (FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 38.0%, FT: 80.4% ), 2.7 rebounds and 1.2 assists, then he moved to Lanus Buenos Aires. O'Bannon also played the Argentinian LigaA All-Star Game 2012 and he was nominated Latinbasket.com All-Argentinian LigaA Honorable Mention.


BBC Monthey keeps Head Coach Petar Aleksic - by Eurobasket News

BBC Monthey announced signing of a one-year contract extension with its Head Coach Petar Aleksic . It will be their second season together. Monthey reached Playoff Semifinals in the latest one. In the regular season Monthey was No.2 with 19-5 record and the team also reached Cup Finals. Aleksic was named Eurobasket.com All-Swiss LNA Coach of the Year -12.
A year ago, Petar Aleksic was Coach of the Year in LNB. He worked with Union Neuchatel Basket. From 2007 to 2009, he served as Assistant Coach of ALBA Berlin. Before that, he spent one season with Neuchatel as HC, also in LNB. From 2004 to 2006, Aleksic coached Austrian team BBC Feldkirch Baskets.


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  TUNISIA   


J.S.Kairaoun and C.A.Bizerte finish Arabian Clubs Championship - by Eurobasket News

J.S.Kairaoun and C.A.Bizerte finish Arabian Clubs Championship on the second and the third places respectively. The teams beat other opponents but lost each to the winner, Ahli Benghazi.
In the game between each other J.S.Kairaoun beat C.A.Bizerte 81:60. The winners led 21:12 after the first period, but managed to take only 35:33 advantage at the halftime. The third quarter was decisive in the game as J.S.Kairaoun increased to 69:46 after thirty minutes.
In Day 3 Ahli Benghazi thumb C.A.Bizerte from Tunisia 85:72. Ahli started with 29-11 but could not keep the big lead. They led 70:47 with 10 minutes remaining, but allowed the team from Tunisia to cut it to 13.
In the last day of the competition Ahli Benghazi overcame J.S.Kairaoun from Tunisia 76:63. The squad from Libya started with 19-11 lead and then had 38:26 at the halftime. J.S.Kairaoun reduced to 5 points entering the last period, but could not win the game.


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  TURKEY   


Tofas adds PG Steven Burtt to 1+1 year deal - by Eurobasket News

Tofas landed another player for the next season. After Joshua Heytvelt (211-F-86, college: Gonzaga), the team signed 1+1 year deal with Steven Burtt (185-G-84, agency: Arete Sports Agency, college: Iona). The 28-year-old point guard heads to the club from Ukrainian Dnipro Dnepropetrovsk, where he spent last two seasons. In the latest one Burtt had 18.9 ppg, 5.1 apg and 3.1 rpg in 40 games. He finished as third scorer and fifth assistant of the competition. Burtt was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Ukrainian Superleague Honorable Mention -12. He had very successful 2010/11 season with Dnipro Dnepropetrovsk as well. Before that, Steven Burtt played for Ferro-ZNTU Zaporozhye, Pizza Express Primetel Apollon, Menorca and Eldan Ashkelon. He is two-time MVP of the Ukrainian All-Star Game and Import Player of the Year 2011. In 2008, he was Eurobasket.com All-Israeli League Player of the Year. Burt played for the Ukrainian NT at the EuroBasket in Lithuania last summer. He had 11.6 ppg, 4.8 apg and 1.8 rpg for 5 games.


D'or Fischer close to Fenerbahce Ulker - by Ugur Turker

D''or Fischer who spent succesfull season in Gescrap Bizkaia Bilbao Basket is on way to sign with Fenerbahce Ulker. It is known that Turkish team is trying to add higly-career backcourt to its roster after hiring Simone Pianigiani . Maccabi Tel Aviv, Real Madrid are amongs other teams which Fischer played. He helped Gescrap Bizkaia Bilbao Basket to reach an Final 8 in THY Euroleague with 7.9ppg and 5.9 rpg. David Andersen and Nikola Velickovic are other possible candidates for Fenerbahce Ulker's backcourt.


Antalya BSB lands Leon Williams and rookie Herb Pope - by Eurobasket News

According to Turkish media (Salsabasket.net), Leon Williams (203-F/C-86, college: Ohio) and rookie Herb Pope (203-F-89) are new members of Antalya BSB. Both players signed deals for the next season.
Leon Williams spent last season with Caceres, Spain. He had 11.7 ppg and 7.4 rpg in 44 LEB Gold games. The player was named to Eurobasket.com Spanish LEB Gold All-Imports Team -12. Williams is not a new face in Turkey as he already played for Erdemir in 2009/10 season. He played 32 games for the club registering 15.7 ppg, 9.2 rpg and 1.5 spg. Williams was third rebounder of the TBL.
Herb Pope graduated at Seton Hall University few months ago. He had 15.2 ppg and 10.3 rpg for his schools as a senior. Pope was named All-Big East 3rd Team -12.


Omer Asik agrees to Rockets' three-year, $25 million offer sheet - by Eurobasket News

The Houston Rockets and Omer Asik (7'0''-C-86) have agreed to a three-year, $25 million offer sheet, sources have confirmed. The proposed deal would pay the Bulls backup center approximately $5 million next season, $5 the following season and a whopping $15 million in the third year.

If the Bulls match, which they are expected to do, it would virtually guarantee that Carlos Boozer's contract would have to be amnestied after the 2013-14 season. The Bulls will have three days to match the Rockets offer once Asik signs the offer sheet July 11.

Asik appeared in every game for the Bulls last season and averaged 3.1 points and 5.3 rebounds while backing up Joakim Noah.

The Bulls frontcourt depth is perhaps their greatest strength, and Asik's interior defense is critical to the success of coach Tom Thibodeaus defense.

Courtesy of www.suntimes.com


Fenerbahce Ulker and Regal Barcelona enter in the mix for Malik Hairston - by Pervin Elgin

The American player is targeted by CSKA Moscow too with Milano who hopes to keep him.

The future of Malik Hairston in Olimpia Milano is very doubtful. The American small forward was close to re-signing with the Italian club when CSKA Moscow broke in the negotiations making an important proposal to the player. In the last hours, with CSKA Moscow who didn't finalize the deal, Fenerbahce and Regal Barcelona entered in the mix for Hairston who is free agent.

Simone Pianigiani knows Hairston because the two have worked together in Siena in the season 2010-11 winning Italian Cup, Italian Championship and reaching the Euroleague Final Four in Barcelona while Barcelona is looking for a small forward and Hairston is the ideal name.
Hairston spent the last two years in Italy with Siena and Milano and his contract with EA7 expired when the season ends.

There are still chance for Milano to re-sign Hairston.

Courtesy of sportando.net


Serbia clinch title in Ruma - by Eurobasket News

Serbia U20 - Turkey U20 75:58

Serbia registered the third straight win and clinched the title at international tournament in Ruma. The hosts denied Turkish effort in the final round. Bogdan Bogdanovic (198-F-92) accounted for 16 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists to lead the home team. He was named the MVP of the tourney.
Turkey led by 7 points at the end of the first quarter 20:13. But Serbia ignited a 22:8 run in the second frame to take a 35:28 halftime lead. The margin just kept on growing in the second half. Serbia entered the final quarter up by 13 points and coasted to the victory at the end. Luka Mitrovic (204-F/C-93) accounted for 12 points for Serbia. Nemanja Besovic (221-C-92) added 10 points in the winning effort. Ramazan Tekin (212-C-93) answered with 13 points for Turkey. Samet Geyik (205-PF-93) chipped in 11 points in the loss.

Serbia U20: Bogdan Bogdanovic 16, Luka Mitrovic 12, Nemanja Besovic 10
Turkey U20: Ramazan Tekin 13, Samet Geyik 11


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  U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS   


13-15 Division Zero Tolerance Resuts - by David Edole

ST. THOMAS-- The finals of the 13-15 division was decided Monday afternoon in the Zero Tolerance Summer Basketball league. All Coast Ballers (4-0) secured the first spot after demolishing Shakers, 42-21. Akiyo Neille came out on fire when he torched the nets for 17 points. Jakoi Bell contributed seven while Nakota Liburd and Ashaki Powell both tallied six points each. Tarik Martin led Shakers with 13 points and Jakobi Peets chipped in with six. Jah Youth is the second team in after outlasing Defend Ours, 35-25. Jah Youths had seven players score in a balance effort, leading the way was DeVaughn Todman with eight points and Kwame McBean added six points. Rashard Creque led Defend Ours with 13 points. All Coast Ballers and Jah Youth (3-1) met earlier in the season with ACB prevailing 32-31. Action continues in the 9-12 Division on Tuesday with three games at Charlotte Amalie High School Gymnasium. Come 2 Defend takes on Heat, followed by More Youths versus The Rising Stars and finally Heat versus More Youths. The game starts at 5:15 pm..


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  UGANDA   


Falcons hot 3-point shooting sinks Power - by Joel Nature

Julius Luwama scored 17 points and dropped 8 dimes to lead Falcons to a 78-66 win over DMark Power on Friday night at YMCA.

Steven Omony scored 8 of his 15 points in the first quarter as Falcons (9-2) pulled away with the period 25-20. Power (9-2) rallied back in the second through team play and trailled 34-36 at halftime

Ben Komakech (13 points) opened the third quarter with a mid-range jumper and Emma Enabu (13 points) followed with a lay-up to put Power infront.

Trailing 41-43, Falcons' bigman, Philp Ameny (8 points, 9 rebounds) hammered it down to tie the game. Luwama hit a go-ahead corner trey and Falcons didnt trail again.

Power pulled with in 61-63 in the fourth quarter with 2:15 to the buzzer but was the closest they did as Falcons went on a 15-5 run all the way.

Isaac Afidra's double-double (10 points, 11 rebounds) was in a losing effort as Falcons knocked down 10 of 16 from beyond the arc.

Falcons improved their winning streak to 5 as Power dropped their second in 3 games and were beaten in size in absence of Joseph Ikong and Micheal Kojo.

Geofrey Omondi piled up 11 points and handed out 8 assists and Peter Elungat also chipped in with 11 points for Falcons.

Meanwhile, Center, Micheal Makiadi poured in 22 points and picked 7 rebounds to pace KIU Titans to a 78-59 win over Nkumba Marines. Denis Akena added 13 points, Francis Kasekende and Salim Ali chipped in with 12 points each.

Titans (9-2) did most of the damage from the line, hitting 36 of 51 shots and Makiadi nailed 12 of his 13 foul shots. Ladislaus Ikungura led Marines with 15 points, Julius Nkoyoyo and Brian Savachi added 10 points each.


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  UKRAINE   


Detroit Pistons agree on terms of contract with Viacheslav Kravtsov - by Eurobasket News

Detroit Pistons have reached a verbal agreement on terms of contract with Viacheslav Kravtsov (6'11''-C-87, agency: Beo Basket). The Ukrainian centre may pen a deal with the NBA team as soon as the moratorium period ends.
Viacheslav Kravtsov spent the last two seasons with BC Donetsk. He averaged 10.6 points, 5.5 boards, 1.6 blocks per game in Superleague last season. In EuroCup the centre posted 8.2 points, 3.9 boards and 1.7 blocks per appearance. Eurobasket.com named Viacheslav Kravtsov All-Ukrainian Superleague Domestic Player of the Year for the second season in a row. Previously Viacheslav Kravtsov played for BC Kyiv. He was the member of U18 and U20 Ukrainian National Teams. The centre has been the member of Ukrainian National Team since 2006. Kravtsov participated at 2010 NBA Summer League in Orlando.


BC Donetsk keep Ramel Curry - by Eurobasket News

BC Donetsk have secured the services of Ramel Curry (192-G-80, college: CSU Bakersfield) for the next season. The guard signed a new deal with the Ukrainian champions. Ramel Curry was one of the masterminds of BC Donetsk success last season. The guard notched 14.3 points, 4.4 boards, 2.8 assists and 1.4 steals per game in Superleague. Eurobasket.com named Ramel Curry All-Ukrainian Superleague Player of the Year. The guard also delivered 16.4 points, 3.9 rebounds, 3.1 assists and 1.4 steals per game in EuroCup. Ramel Curry made it into EuroCup All-Imports Team. Ramel Curry has been playing in Ukraine since 2010. He joined BC Donetsk at the start of the previous season playing for Azovmash before. The guard also had stints in Turkey, Italy, Dominican Republic, Israel, D-League and ABA before.


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  UNITED KINGDOM   


Britain's Olympic hoops team without Ben Gordon - by Eurobasket News

Britain has lost a second NBA player for the men's basketball tournament at the Olympic Games after Ben Gordon (188-G-83, college: Connecticut) failed to link up with the squad at its training camp in the United States.

Britain coach Chris Spice says the guard couldn't commit to playing for the host nation after he was traded from the Detroit Pistons to the Charlotte Bobcats on Tuesday.

Spice says "It's really disappointing as he's a world-class player who would have made a huge difference."

With Bobcats center Byron Mullens out because of injury, it leaves Britain with only one NBA player - Chicago Bulls forward Luol Deng.

The London-born Gordon hasn't played for Britain despite being named in squads since 2008.

Britain was allowed to compete at the Olympics by the International Basketball Federation despite not qualifying.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com


London farewell to Future Stars 2012 - by Eurobasket News

London farewell to Future Stars 2012 after the Final Day of the competition.
Ukraine U18 won Future Stars International Tournament with 6 participating teams. After the win and the loss in the group stage, Ukraine won the Semifinal and the Final games.
In the Semifinal game Ukraine U18 overcame Denmark U18 65:54. They started with 16-15 and added 23-18 in the second period. Moreover Ukraine won the third frame 18-11 and did not mind 8-10 in the last stanza. Stanislav Kudrya (186-PG-95) and Shevchenko top-scored for the winners with 18 points each, while Sahnyuk posted 11. Rasmus Glarbjerg replied with 13 points in defeat, while Anders Skou added 7.
In another Semifinal game England U18 lost to Netherlands U18 46:53.
In the Final game Ukraine U18 outscored Holland U18 66:57. Pishikiv paced all the winners with 18 points, while Stanislav Kudrya netted 12. Sahnyuk delivered 9 and Petrov posted 6.
In the game for the third place Denmark U18 outscored England U18 73:59. Denmark opened the game with 22-6 lead and never looked behind after. England however replied with 19-15 in the second period and then grabbed 18-14 in the third quarter. Denmark meanwhile won the last stanza 22-16 and grabbed bronze medals.


Wolves' New Arena Takes Shape - by Paul Nilsen

Worcester Wolves Director of Basketball Paul James this week paid a visit to the construction site on Hylton Road to check out the progress of the new 2000 seat Worcester Arena.

James, was clearly impressed with what he saw, commenting: "It has been a really productive visit and has given me an opportunity to catch up with the construction team and to get a genuine feel for the new Wolves home. I am sure the fans will love this facility and everyone involved in the club cannot wait to make the move, despite admitting that we will be leaving some great memories behind in our first home on the St. John's University campus."

The Wolves will begin the 2012-13 season in September at their current home and play on Saturday evenings. However, when they move to the Arena during the second half of the season, match nights at the Arena will be on Friday evenings.

James is also quick to focus upon the other significant highlights that the Arena will bring, adding: "It will provide the region and the nation with an excellent purpose built indoor sports facility that will host a range of different sports. The project will be fairly unique in terms of providing a great local and international venue for wheelchair sport which will have an unbelievable impact for coaches and athletes at all levels."

Hardworking Spanish forward Carlos Fernandez and influential point guard Sherrad Prezzie-Blue have already been confirmed as returnees from last season's successful Worcester Wolves squad and it is hoped that more re-signing players will be announced shortly.


Raiders Chairman Awarded Honour - by Paul Nilsen

The UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders Chairman, Bob Widdecombe, has been awarded an MBE for his services to crime prevention and sport in Plymouth.



He said he was "very honoured, proud and humbled" but added: "It's more about the other volunteers and committee people who made Crimestoppers and the Raiders so successful."



Bob has sat on the National Advisory Board for Crimestoppers, and along with being the Chairman of the Devon and Cornwall branch of the crime fighting charity for over 21 years, he also represented the South West as Regional Chairman for 10 years.



When younger, he played football, squash and badminton at county standard. He went on to open Plymouth Sports Club, where he installed the first ever Astroturf pitch in the city! He was president of the Devon Wednesday Football League for 15 years, and sat on numerous sports representative boards in the city.



It was then around 18 years ago that he became involved with the Plymouth Raiders basketball team, and is now serving in his second stint as Chairman of the club. Having won each of the various competitions in England Basketball's Division 1, the decision was made to step up to the fully professional British Basketball league, where he has helped to establish the club as one of the biggest clubs in the country.


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  URUGUAY   


Argentina topple Uruguay in Rosario - by Eurobasket News

Argentina - Uruguay 78:57

Argentina claimed a confident win over Uruguay in a friendly encounter in Rosario. Nicolas Laprovittola (188-PG-90), Leonardo Gutierrez (200-F-78) and Andres Nocioni (199-F-79) scored 12 points each to lead the hosts.
Uruguay led by a single point ten minutes into the game 23:22. But Argentina stiffened their defence and held the visitors to 10 points in the second quarter. Argentina pulled ahead for a 39:33 halftime advantage. The hosts stretched the lead in the third quarter. They accumulated a 57:46 advantage with one quarter remaining. Argentina did not slow down in the fourth period and raced to the victory at the end. Marcos Mata finished with 8 points for the winners. Bruno Fitipaldo (183-PG-91) answered with 15 points for Uruguay. Sebastian Izaguirre (207-C/F-85) had 11 points in the losing effort.

Argentina: Nicolas Laprovittola 12, Leonardo Gutierrez 12, Andres Nocioni 12
Uruguay: Bruno Fitipaldo 15, Sebastian Izaguirre 11


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  VENEZUELA   


Venezuela moved on to the second round - by Wolfgang Lucena

Venezuela played a heroic defense during the last quarter of tonight's game to defeated Nigeria 71-69 on its first appearance of the 2012 FIBA Olympic Qualifying tournament held in Caracas Venezuela.
Venezuela aka The Vinotinto, moved on to the second round of this qualifying tourney to this way increase its hopes to take one of the spots available toward the Olympic Games London 2012. Greivis Vasquez (198-PG-87), David Cubillan (183-PG-87, college: Marquette) and Hector Romero (202-F/C-80, college: New Orleans) led the offense with 24, 13 and 10 points while Hector Romero, Windi Graterol (203-F/C-86) and Gregory Echenique (205-C-90) were tremendous defending Venezuelas hoops. Despite the defeat, Nigeria had its best man on Ike Diogu (204-F/C-83, college: Arizona St.) with 14 points followed by Ekenechukwu Ibekwe (206-F-85, college: Maryland) with 12 and Anthony Skinner with 10.

@Lucena1105



Olympic Qualifying Tournament: Venezuela sneak past Nigeria - by Eurobasket News

Venezuela - Nigeria 71:69

Venezuela earned a vital win in their quest for the Olympic birth this year. They took down Nigeria in the Olympic Qualifying Tournament opener. The hosts were paced by 24 points from Greivis Vasquez (198-PG-87, agency: Interperformances, college: Maryland). It was a tough battle from start to finish. Nigeria led by a single point 18:17 ten minutes into the game. Venezuela turned things around in the second quarter taking a 29:27 halftime lead. Nigeria cut the deficit back to a single point at the final intermission 51:50. The teams stayed neck and neck throughout the fourth period. Venezuela eked out a 71:69 lead and then Hector Romero (202-F/C-80, college: New Orleans) came up with a crucial block late in regulation to seal the victory for the home team. David Cubillan (183-PG-87, college: Marquette) tallied 13 points, 6 assists and 5 boards, while Hector Romero added 10 points for the winners. Ike Diogu (204-F/C-83, college: Arizona St.) answered with 14 points and 10 rebounds for Nigeria. Ekenechukwu Ibekwe (206-F-85, college: Maryland) finished with 12 points in the loss.

Venezuela: Greivis Vasquez 24, David Cubillan 13, Hector Romero 10
Nigeria: Ike Diogu 14+10 boards, Ekenechukwu Ibekwe 12


Olympic Qualifying Tournament || Russia defeated Korea - by Yelitza La Torre

Russia defeated Korea 91-56 in the beginning of the 2012 FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament held in the Poliedro Arena Caracas Venezuela. Andrei Kirilenko (205-F-81) was the best man for Russia with 16 points helped by Sergey Monya (203-F-83) with 14 points. Lee Jung-Hyun (190-F-87) was the best player for Korea with 15 points while Yang Hee-Jong (194-F-84) helped with 9 points. Today monday July 2 's following game will be Greece versus Jordan at 1:30 pm

@yelitzalatorre



*****************************************************
  WALES   


San Marino overcame Wales at the end of Day 1 - by Eurobasket News

San Marino-Wales 58:53

San Marino overcame Wales at the end of Day 1 at the European Championship Small Countries. The hosts of the tournament grabbed 58:53 in the last game of the day.
Wales took 15:14 after the first period and added 14-11 in the second frame. The third quarter however was decisive in the game and brought 21-10 for the home side. Enrico Zanotti (195-C-90) and Stefano Rossini (183-G-74) brought 53:46, while Pearce cut it to 5 points. Enrico Zanotti later made two free throws for 58:52 and Williams made the final result in the game. Although Wales won the last period 14-12 they managed to reduce only to 5.
Enrico Zanotti top-scored for the winners with 16 points and 12 rebounds, while Andrea Raschi (200-G/F-79) delivered 12 points and 11 rebounds. Federico Cardinali (183-G-91) notched 9 and Stefano Rossini scored 8. Ioan Nickson posted 16 points in defeat and Alan Duppa (199-F/C-80) had 10.

San Marino: Enrico Zanotti 16+12 rebs, Andrea Raschi 12+11 rebs, Federico Cardinali 9, Stefano Rossini 8
Wales: Ioan Nickson 16, Alan Duppa 10


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  WCBL   

Standings

WCBL Standings
 1. Santa Barbara 9-1 
 2. Hollywood 6-3 
 3. Santa Monica J. 6-5 
 4. Long Beach R. 5-5 
 5. Nationwide A. 4-5 
 6. West LA A. 4-6 
 7. Central Coast S. 0-0 
 8. High Desert 0-9 



*****************************************************
  WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS U17   

Standings

Standings
Group A
1. USA3-0
2. Australia2-1
3. China2-1
4. Czech Rep.1-2
5. France1-2
6. Egypt0-3
Group B
1. Croatia3-0
2. Spain2-1
3. Canada2-1
4. Argentina1-2
5. Lithuania1-2
6. S.Korea0-3

Preliminary Round: Round 3

Group A

Jul. 1: EGY - USA 73-111
Jul. 1: CZE - AUS 58-63
Jul. 1: FRA - CHN 53-59

Group B

Jul. 1: LTU - ESP 83-91 OT
Jul. 1: CAN - ARG 80-76
Jul. 1: KOR - CRO 68-124

Preliminary Round: Round 4

Group A

Jul. 3: CHN - CZE
Jul. 3: AUS - EGY
Jul. 3: USA - FRA

Group B

Jul. 3: ESP - CAN
Jul. 3: ARG - KOR
Jul. 3: CRO - LTU




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Women News


Basketball Ladies Team to Focus Defensive Aspects in London Games - by Eurobasket News

Luanda The captain of Angola's senior ladies basketball team, Nacissela Maurcio, considered on Saturday positive the preparation for the London2012 Olympics Games and urged to work harder in defensive aspects, having into account the opponents in the event.

Speaking to Angop, Nacissela Maurcio said the training programme is going well and she hopes that the final phase of the preparation remains at the same pace.
Courtesy of: Angola Press


*****************************************************
  AUSTRALIA   


SBL: Flames rise to top three (Round 16 women's wrap) - by Eurobasket News

The Rockingham Flames have moved into third position after another impressive round of the women's State Basketball League saw them defeat the Kalamunda Eastern Suns and the Perry Lakes Hawks to extend their streak to eight.

On Friday night the Flames defeated the fifth place Eastern Suns 90-86, Flames star Emma Cannon (188-F, college: Cent.Florida) was incredible with 44 points and 27 rebounds, she was supported by Kaye Tucker with 19 points and 12 rebounds.

They then took down the Hawks 84-58 on Saturday, the Flames dominated the game on the back of solid performances from Emma Cannon (26 points, 15 rebounds) and Kaye Tucker (12 points, ten rebounds).

South West Slammers took down the struggling Wanneroo Wolves 53-50, the win extends their streak to six games, while the Wolves succumbed to their sixth consecutive loss.

Only four players managing to score in double digits, Zoe Harper (191-C-88, college: Minnesota) (12 points) and Kim Sitzmann (16 points) for the Slammers with Meghan D'arcy (171-G-90) (13 points) and Megan Lee (ten points) for the Wolves.

The Willetton Tigers defeated the Lakeside Lightning 82-77 on Saturday night to jump into second on the standings, the Tigers were led by Jasmine Hooper and Lara Napier who both finished with 18 points.

East Perth Eagles upset the Perth Redbacks 62-46 to leave the Redbacks in fourth place, Eagles star Samantha Norwood (188-F/C-89, college: Stony Brook) was strong with 17 points and ten rebounds while guard Kate Fielding chipped in with 15 points.

Mandurah Magic managed to scrape over the line to defeat the Stirling Senators 59-55, after a slow first half the Magic sprang into action to take the lead, veteran Shelley Boston led the way with 13 points and 22 rebounds.

The Senators bounced back the next night to take down the Cockburn Cougars 57-52 despite a rocky start to the game, the loss leaves the Cougars on a four game losing streak.

Guard Lyndal Gardner led the way for Stirling with 27 points and 12 rebounds, while the Cougars were led by reliable import Stephanie Jones with 27 points and 20 rebounds.

Article by Hannah Coleman
Courtesy of: SBL


QBL: Weekend Wrap-Up: Round 7 - by Eurobasket News

Mackay Meteorettes 83 def Gold Coast Rollers 70
Mackay got off to an early lead with the Gold Coast managing to close it out to just two points at the first break. The home side again upped the pressure and pushed their lead back out to double-figures, leading by 23 points early in the third quarter. The Rollers nudged the deficit towards the end of the back but couldnt meet the Meteorettes shooting ability, Mackay putting an end to the Rollers unbeaten run. Kelli Payton was instrumental for Mackay with 29 points, while Carine Reimink (185-F-87, college: Colorado St.) top-scored for the Rollers with 16.

Brisbane Capitals 81 def Maroochydore Clippers 37
Brisbane dominated from the get-go, notching up their first points just seven seconds after tip-off. The Capitals lead by 21 points at halftime and continued to build on their lead until the final whistle to win by 44 points. Sarah Davis (188-F/C, college: SMU) hit 19 points for Brisbane while team-mate Emma Randall shot 17 points, Shayli Wilks shot 10 points for the Clippers.

Ipswich Force 67 def Toowoomba Mountaineers 48
Scores were close in the first half of this encounter, with Ipswich holding the lead with a depleted Toowoomba side managing to follow closely behind. But after halftime it was Ipswichs match with the Force pulling away to win by 19 points. Emma Langford (188-F-89, college: Wyoming) put up 19 points for the Force while Janelle Adams shot 18 points for Toowoomba.

Cairns Dolphins 73 def by Gladstone Power 92
The first quarter saw nothing much between the teams, with the first break seeing scores tied at 20-all. The Dolphins put the pressure on during the second quarter with Juliana Paunovic and Cayla Francis leading the way to help put Cairns 14 points in front at halftime. The Dolphins continued to hold the lead through most of the third quarter, but Gladstone were on the push, and with less than a minute left a three-pointer from the Powers Jessica Bibby (169-G-79) saw scores again locked going into the final quarter, setting up a show-down in the last 10 minutes. But once again Gladstone demonstrated why theyre the reigning champions, with Hurst, Neves, Haynes and Bibby coming together to get a run of points on the board to steal Cairns thunder by 19 points. Natalie Hurst had a stellar match with a triple-double of 29 points, 15 rebounds and 11 assists, while Power team-mate Jessica Bibby shot 28 points. Cayla Francis and Juliana Paunovic both put up 23 points, with Francis also taking down a massive 18 rebounds.

Bundaberg Bears 77 def Northside Wizards 56
Bundaberg took an early lead with the Wizards hot on their heels in the first quarter, but managed to pull their lead out to 12 points at halftime. Despite efforts from Taylor Lilley and Victoria Aldred, Northside couldnt get close enough to the Bears, the home-side taking the match out comfortably. Rachel Maenpaa (185-C-84, agency: Regeneracom Sports, college: Indiana St.) top-scored for Bundy with 22 points and 12 rebounds, while Lilley controlled the scoreboard for the Wizards with 26.

Rockhampton Cyclones 64 def Gold Coast Rollers 49
The Rollers took their second loss on the road and of the season, with the Cyclones proving too strong for the southerners. The Gold Coast girls managed to put a dint in Rockys lead at halftime, bringing back their 11-point lead at the start of the quarter to just four points. But from the third quarter it was the Cyclones game, taking the match by 15 points. Chandrea Jones shot 20 points for Rocky while Bianca Abbott put up 16 for the Rollers.

Maroochydore Clippers 71 def South West Metro Pirates 67
The Clippers finally broke their winless hoo-doo with this close win over the Pirates. South West got away with a lead early in the match but the Clippers snatched it back to lead by three points at the first break. The home-side saw out the first half with the lead, although the Pirates were right on their tail the whole way through. Early in the third quarter the Pirates nabbed the lead, and stayed out in front until four minutes into the last quarter. The Clippers werent about to concede another game on their home court, and with less than three minutes left they again gained control to take the match by four points. Maroochys Gabby Walk and the Pirates Jessica Wallis (178-G-88) both shot 20 points each.

Townsville Flames 63 def by Gladstone Power 100
It was always going to be a tough task for the Flames to overcome the dominant Gladstone side, and the visitors didnt make it easy on the Townsville side. The Power took the lead early and didnt let up for the rest of the match, to take the game by 37 points. Jessica Bibby had 24 points for the Power while Kayla Ward top-scored for Townsville with 11 points.
Courtesy of: qbl.basketball.net.au


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  BELGIUM   


Turkey thump Belgium to occupy third place in Reze - by Eurobasket News

Turkey U18 - Belgium U18 85:52

Turkish U18 National Team celebrated the third place at the international tournament in Reze. They knocked down Belgium on the final day of the competition. Elif Emirtekin (184-F-94) came up with 17 points and 7 rebounds to lead the winners.
Turkey exploded with 27 points in the first quarter to clear off. They gained an 11-point lead at the first break. Turkey maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. They registered a 45:26 halftime buffer. Turkey stayed aggressive throughout the third frame. They accounted for a 26-point lead with one quarter remaining and never looked back again. Gisem Sezer produced 15 points, while Pelin Bilgic (173-G-94) had 13 points for the winning side. Heleen Adams (173-SF-94) replied with 10 points for Belgium. Axelle Bernard (183-C-95) notched 9 points in the loss.

Turkey U18: Elif Emirtekin 17, Gizem Sezer (196-C-94) 15, Pelin Bilgic 13
Belgium U18: Heleen Adams 10, Axelle Bernard 9


Belgium U20 lose two in Bristol - by Eurobasket News

Belgian U20 National Team travelled to Bristol to play two test games against their English counterparts. Belgium suffered back-to-back defeats. The first game ended with England claiming a 55:47 win. Belgium were up by one point 26:25 at halftime but could not keep up the tempo and had to surrender at the end. Emmanuella Mayombo (170-SG-92, agency: LBM Management) finished with 16 points for Belgium. Jaleesa Maes (188-C-92) added 10 points in the losing case.
Next game was a closer battle. The teams were tied at 29 at halftime. England and Belgium went neck and neck throughout the second half but the hosts managed to eke out a narrow 58:57 victory at the end. Alisson Mai (183-C-93) and Emmanuella Mayombo provided 14 points each for Belgium. Jaleesa Maes had 13 points in the loss.


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  CANADA   


Canada grabs last ticket for London - by Eurobasket News

CANADA - JAPAN 71-63

Canada won the last ticket for the 2012 Olympic Games in London. Last time they played at the Olympics 12 years ago. They were better than Japan 71-63 in the last game of the Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Ankara. Canada took control on its rival from the beginning. They made impressive 11-0 start and were in charge for rest of the game. Canada was 37-31 up at the halftime and later jumped to 52-37 lead. It seemed that the winner is decided at that time, but Japan answered with great 2-14 run and teams went to exciting finish. Courtnay Pilypaitis (184-G-88, college: Vermont) stepped up for Canada making a basket from downtown and later they managed to seal the victory from the free throw line. Quarters: 21-11, 16-20, 15-11, 19-21. Pilypaitis top-scored in victory with 21 points and she also handed 6 assists. Teresa Gabriele (165-PG-79) followed her with 11 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists, while Krista Phillips (198-C-88, college: Michigan) added 9 points, plus 8 boards. In the loosing squad, Maki Takada (183-F/C-89) (8 rebs) and Yuka Mamiya (185-C/F-90) scored 14 points each. Yuko Oga (170-G-82) stopped to 11 points in this defeat.

Canada: Courtnay Pilypaitis 21+6 as, Teresa Gabriele 11+7 boards+5 as, Krista Phillips 9+8 boards
Japan: Maki Takada 14+8 boards, Yuka Mamiya 14, Yuko Oga 11


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  CHINA   


Moore MAYA!! - by Eurobasket Center

Arguably the most heralded women's college basketball player in the history of the game, Maya Moore (182-F-89, college: Connecticut), who has won at nearly every level she has been on, is taking her talents to the far east, China. Moore becomes the 1st ever No.1 pick in the history of the WCBA, and only the 2nd amongst both men and women ( Kenyon Martin, 2000 #1).

The Shanxi Xing Rui Flame is one of the new teams in the WCBA this season, so ownership wanted to make a big statement, thus the biggest signing in the WCBA so far. Moore reportedly will receive 90,000USD before any bonuses are paid over the course of the 4 month season. This will be the most exciting and competitive seasons in the history of women's basketball in China.


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  CROATIA   


France clinch trophy in Reze - by Eurobasket News

France U18 - Croatia U18 53:40

France celebrated victory at the Reze international tournament. The hosts celebrated four victories in as many games played. They fired past Croatia on the final day of the competition. Marieme Badiane (188-C-94) and Assitan Kone (190-F-95) came up with 14 points each to lead the winners.
The teams stayed close throughout the first quarter. France claimed a narrow 10:9 lead at the first break. The hosts stretched the lead in the second term. They gained a 22:13 halftime advantage. France boosted the distance even more in the third term. They arrived at the final break up by 11 points 39:28. France held their opponents to 12 points in the final period and clinched a comfortable win at the end. Awa Sissoko (178-SG-94) netted 8 points in the victory. Ivana Tikvic (189-C-94) answered with 16 points and 10 rebounds. Ana Marija Begic (190-C-94) had 10 points for Croatia.

France U18: Marieme Badiane 14+17 boards, Assitan Kone 14, Awa Sissoko 8
Croatia U18: Ivana Tikvic 16+10 boards, Ana Marija Begic 10


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


Sweden fire past Czech Republic in Reze - by Eurobasket News

Sweden U18 - Czech Republic U18 66:48

Sweden capped their Reze international tournament campaign with victory. They knocked down Czech Republic to occupy the fifth overall position. Gabriella Frykbo (170-G-94) and Paulina Hersler (190-PF-94) scored 13 points each to lead the winners.
Sweden held their opponents to 8 points in the first quarter to take a 2-point lead 10:8. Czech Republic narrowed the deficit to a single point at halftime 23:24. Sweden went on a full throttle in the third quarter. They outscored Czech Republic 26:6 to enter the final period up by 21 points. The Czechs had little to answer with and though they outscored the Scandinavian team in the final stanza could not avoid the loss. Agnes Mellstrom (184-G-94) provided 10 points for the winners. Kamila Hoskova (174-F-95) responded with 10 points for Czech Republic. Sarka Jozova (173-G-94) netted 7 points in the losing case.

Sweden U18: Gabriella Frykbo 13, Paulina Hersler 13, Agnes Mellstrom 10
Czech Republic U18: Kamila Hoskova 10, Sarka Jozova 7


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


Ukraine finish Baltic Cup with victory - by Eurobasket News

Estonia U16 - Ukraine U16 45:71

Ukrainian U16 National Team finished their 2012 Baltic Cup campaign with victory. They knocked down hosting Estonia in Tallinn. Vita Gorobets stepped up with 28 points and 10 rebounds to lead the charge.
Ukraine strongly entered the game. They outscored Estonia 21:9 in the opening quarter. Ukraine boosted the lead in the second quarter. The visitors arrived at halftime up by 26 points 40:14. Estonia tried to change things around in the second half. The hosts outscored Ukraine in the third quarter to narrow the margin at 20-point mark. But Ukraine quickly restored a 20+ distance in the fourth frame and cruised to the victory at the end. Anastasiya Polovynka (176-G-96) produced 11 points, while Yatskovets had 9 points for the winning side. Laura Reissar (171-PG-97) and Tatjana Razguljaeva (170-g-96) had 12 points each for Estonia.

Estonia U16: Laura Reissar 12, Tatjana Razguljaeva 12
Ukraine U16: Vita Gorobets 28+10 boards, Anastasiya Polovynka 11, Yatskovets 9


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


France clinch trophy in Reze - by Eurobasket News

France U18 - Croatia U18 53:40

France celebrated victory at the Reze international tournament. The hosts celebrated four victories in as many games played. They fired past Croatia on the final day of the competition. Marieme Badiane (188-C-94) and Assitan Kone (190-F-95) came up with 14 points each to lead the winners.
The teams stayed close throughout the first quarter. France claimed a narrow 10:9 lead at the first break. The hosts stretched the lead in the second term. They gained a 22:13 halftime advantage. France boosted the distance even more in the third term. They arrived at the final break up by 11 points 39:28. France held their opponents to 12 points in the final period and clinched a comfortable win at the end. Awa Sissoko (178-SG-94) netted 8 points in the victory. Ivana Tikvic (189-C-94) answered with 16 points and 10 rebounds. Ana Marija Begic (190-C-94) had 10 points for Croatia.

France U18: Marieme Badiane 14+17 boards, Assitan Kone 14, Awa Sissoko 8
Croatia U18: Ivana Tikvic 16+10 boards, Ana Marija Begic 10


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  GERMANY   


Ali Schwagmeyer joined the forces of GiroLive Panthers Osnabruck - by Eurobasket News

Ali Schwagmeyer (180-F-90, agency: Gamble Sports Management, college: Quincy) joined the forces of GiroLive Panthers Osnabruck. The American Forward moves to Germany for her first pro year abroad.
In 2008-2009 she started for Charleston So. (NCAA, starting five) and in 30 games averaged 8.5ppg, 6.8rpg, 1.2apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 40.9%, 3Pts: 32.3%, FT: 63.6%. In 2009-2010 she continued for Charleston So. (NCAA) and had 6.9ppg, 7.6rpg, 1.5apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 42.6%, 3PT: 17.9%, FT: 60.7%. In 2010-2011 Ali Schwagmeyer moved to Quincy (NCAA2, starting five). In her first season there she averaged 17.6ppg, 6.6rpg, 4.3apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 50.4%, 3PT: 28.9%, FT: 73.9%. Last year for Quincy (NCAA2, starting five) she had high 18.0ppg, 7.9rpg, 3.2apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 45.4%, 3PT: 39.0%, FT: 79.2%.
For her Awards/Achievements it is a must to mention that she was Big South Conf. All-Freshman Team -09 and GLVC Player of the Year -11. Moreover she made it into GLVC First Team All-Conference -11, 12. Last year Ali Schwagmeyer received Bulletin NCAA D2 All-America Honorable Mention -12 and she was named Daktronics All-Midwest Region Team First Team -11, 12.


Chanita Jordan has signed with ChemCats Chemnitz - by Eurobasket News

Chanita Jordan (196-C-87, agency: Gamble Sports Management, college: Bowie St.) has signed with ChemCats Chemnitz. The American Center agreed terms with the German team for the next year.
In 2006-2007 she appeared for N.Carolina St. (NCAA) and in 18 games averaged 2.2ppg, 1.7rpg. In 2007-2008 for N.Carolina St. (NCAA) she improved to 5.6ppg, 3.8rpg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 51.7%, FT: 57.3%. In 2010-2011 moved to Bowie State (NCAA2) and after 28 games showed 8.7ppg, 5.4rpg, 2.8bpg, FGP: 44.0%. In 2011-2012 for Bowie State (NCAA2) her stats read 11.9ppg, 6.8rpg, 3.0bpg, FGP: 44.3%.
For her Awards/Achievements it is a must to mention that she became ACC Tournament Finalist -07. She reached NCAA Sweet 16 -07 and NIT Final Four -08. Last year Chanita Jordan was named CIAA Defensive Player of the Year -11.
ChemCats Chemnitz will announce another signings later this summer.


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  HOLLAND   


Netherlands edge Poland to earn 7th place in Reze - by Eurobasket News

Netherlands U18 - Poland U18 70:44

Netherlands clinched the seventh overall position at the international tournament in Reze. They knocked down Poland on the final day of the competition. Kourtney Treffers (186-F-94) stepped up with 21 points and 15 rebounds to lead the winners.
Netherlands jumped to a 16:12 lead after the opening quarter. They maintained the advantage throughout the second quarter. Netherlands ensured a 31:24 halftime lead. The Dutch team did not loosen the grasp in the third frame. They accumulated an 11-point buffer heading into the fourth quarter. Netherlands went on a 26:11 run in the final frame and sealed the victory at the end. Yordi Kathmann (176-F-94) knocked down 17 points, while Lisanne de Jonge (181-F-95) produced 9 points for the winners. Hotyn answered with 9 points for Poland. Julia Adamowicz (178-G-94) and Daria Marciniak (188-C-94) had 8 points apiece in the loss.

Netherlands U18: Kourtney Treffers 21+15 boards, Yordi Kathmann 17, Lisanne de Jonge 9
Poland U18: Hotyn 9, Julia Adamowicz 8, Daria Marciniak 8


Challenge Sports/Binnenland Rotterdam returns forward Leonie Kooij - by Eurobasket News

Leonie Kooij (187-F-86) is back to Holland. The 26-year forward signed a one-season deal with Challenge Sports/Binnenland Rotterdam. She returned to the club after one year with Spanish Celta Vigo. Kooij had limited playing time with the Vigo team. She appeared 26 times in LFB averaging 5 points and 3.3 rebounds. In 2010/11, Leonie Kooij was one of the best Binnenland players. She had 14.3 ppg, 6.1 rpg, 2.1 spg and 1.5 apg for the club. In 2011, Kooij played for HLB Accountants Den Helder and she was named Eurobasket.com All-Dutch Eredivisie Forward of the Year -10. She exploded with 17.7 ppg, 9 rpg, 4.5 apg, 2.6 spg and 1.3 bpg for 35 games with the team. In the past, Kooij played for Sibenik Jolly and Yellow Bike Den Helder.


Marie Hoogstraten joins US Amsterdam - by Eurobasket News

Marie Hoogstraten (179-F-88) will play next season for US Amsterdam. The Dutch forward signed a deal two weeks ago. Hoogstraten played for ProBuild Lions Landslake over the past three seasons. In the latest one she had 5.2 ppg, 3.5 rpg and 1.4 spg for 13 games. She helped them to win Eredivisie title and to reach Cup Finals as well. They also were Eredivisie champions in 2010 and a year before they won the Cup trophy. In 2009/10 season, Marie Hoogstraten averaged 7.8 points and 3.1 rebounds for 39 games. Before ProBuild, the forward played for Perik Jumpers Tubbergen, Matrixx Magixx Nijmegen and Wildcats. Hoogstraten also played for U20 Dutch National Team in 2007. He had 10.7 ppg, 6.1 rpg and 1.6 spg for 7 games at this event.


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  ISRAEL   


TIFFANY HAYES SIGN WITH HAPOEL RISHON LEZION !!! - by Gil Goshen


The Atlanta guard Tiffany Hayes signed today with hapoel rishon lezion.
Tiffany was drafted # 14 2012 draft and she was graduated of Connecticut.
On her first WNBA season she has 5.2 points and 2.5 rbs.
She was the first player that Coach Shira Haelion team signed.
Two season ago they have sign Danielle McCray and last season Alexis Gray-Lawson.
The team is looking for more players to sign next week.
Tiffany Hayes (177-G-89, college: Connecticut) .


ASHDOD CONTINUE FILLING UP THE ROSTER ! - by Gil Goshen


After signed Charde Houston and Noa Ganor the IsraeliChampion and the cup holder
M. Ashdod resigned the Captain MEIRAV DORI..
Meirav, The Israeli National SF HAS decided to take an year off from the National
to prepare herself for the next season in order to defend the Champion and the Cup as well.
2010-2011: A.S. Ramat Hasharon Electra (Israel-D1, starting five): 20 games: 10.0ppg, 4.0rpg, 2.3apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 37.2%, 3PT: 40.8%, FT: 66.7%
2011-2012: Maccabi Bnot Ashdod (Israel-D1): EuroCup: 6 games: 11.0ppg, 3.5rpg, 2.3apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 51.0%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 57.1%; Israeli League: 23 games: 5.9ppg, 1.9rpg, 1.0spg, FGP: 42.3%, 3PT: 35.3%, FT: 42.3% Meirav Dori (178-SG-86)


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  ITALY   


Silvia Favento heads to Virtus Spezia - by Eurobasket News

Silvia Favento (185-F-85) heads to Virtus Spezia for the next season. The Italian Forward moves from Acer ERG Priolo.
In 2004-2005 she started for Chieti (A2, starting five) and in 32 games averaged 6.4ppg, 3.4rpg. In 2005-2006 moved to Terra Sarda Alghero (A1) and showed 7.4ppg, 2.9rpg, 1.7spg, 2FGP: 41,8%, 3PT: 29,1%, FT: 61,4%.
In 2006-2007 Silvia moved to Mercede Basket Alghero (A1, starting five) and had 11.7ppg, 3.3rpg, 2.3spg, 2FGP: 38,2%, 3PT: 28,6%, FT: 78,7%.
In 2007-2008 signed with Banco di Sicilia Ribera (A1, starting five) and had 7.1ppg, 3.0rpg, 1.1spg, FGP: 45.3%, 3PT: 35.8%, FT: 68.6%.
In 2008-2009 Silvia Favento joined Pallacanestro Pozzuoli (A1, starting five) and had 5.8ppg, 3.1rpg, 1.4spg, FGP: 35.6%, 3PT: 38.4%, FT: 71.4%. The last three season she played for Acer ERG Priolo (A1). In her last one there the stats read 4.4ppg, 2.0rpg.


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  IVORY COAST   


The CSA has won 2012 title - by Eurobasket News

The CSA has won 2012 title in the country. The team overcame ABC in both games. At first they celebrated a 47:42 and then added 60:40 win in the second game.
This is the second title after the 2009 CSA.


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  JAPAN   


Canada grabs last ticket for London - by Eurobasket News

CANADA - JAPAN 71-63

Canada won the last ticket for the 2012 Olympic Games in London. Last time they played at the Olympics 12 years ago. They were better than Japan 71-63 in the last game of the Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Ankara. Canada took control on its rival from the beginning. They made impressive 11-0 start and were in charge for rest of the game. Canada was 37-31 up at the halftime and later jumped to 52-37 lead. It seemed that the winner is decided at that time, but Japan answered with great 2-14 run and teams went to exciting finish. Courtnay Pilypaitis (184-G-88, college: Vermont) stepped up for Canada making a basket from downtown and later they managed to seal the victory from the free throw line. Quarters: 21-11, 16-20, 15-11, 19-21. Pilypaitis top-scored in victory with 21 points and she also handed 6 assists. Teresa Gabriele (165-PG-79) followed her with 11 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists, while Krista Phillips (198-C-88, college: Michigan) added 9 points, plus 8 boards. In the loosing squad, Maki Takada (183-F/C-89) (8 rebs) and Yuka Mamiya (185-C/F-90) scored 14 points each. Yuko Oga (170-G-82) stopped to 11 points in this defeat.

Canada: Courtnay Pilypaitis 21+6 as, Teresa Gabriele 11+7 boards+5 as, Krista Phillips 9+8 boards
Japan: Maki Takada 14+8 boards, Yuka Mamiya 14, Yuko Oga 11


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  LATVIA   


Latvia U16 win Baltic Cup - by Eurobasket News

Latvia U16 - Lithuania U16 70:67 (OT)

Latvian U16 National Team celebrated the title at the 2012 Baltic Cup tournament in Tallinn. They held off Lithuanian counterparts for the third game in as many games played and took home the trophy.
Lithuania gained a 17:16 lead after ten minutes of action. Latvia bounced back as they limited their opponents to 6 points in the second quarter. Latvia secured a 26:23 halftime advantage. Lithuania denied the deficit in the third quarter drawing things level at 42. The teams went neck and neck throughout the fourth quarter. They were tied at 56 by the end of regulation. Latvia scored 14 points in extra period and snatched a narrow win at the end. Kate Kreslina (178-PG-96) scored 25 points to lead Latvia. Kitija Laksa (180-G-96) provided 13 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Dalia Belickaite (175-F-96) answered with 26 points for Lithuania. Agne Cerneckyte (171-SG-96) had 13 points in the loss.

Latvia U16: Kate Kreslina 25, Kitija Laksa 13, Kitija Stolce 9
Lithuania U16: Dalia Belickaite 26, Agne Cerneckyte 13


Latvian U16 National Team -12 - by Simas

*5 Kate Kreslina
*6 Marta Bergmane
*7 Beate Markane
*10 Paula Luke
*11 Digna Strautmane
4 Ieva Spigule
9 Kitija Laksa
12 Katrina Vectirane
13 Kitija Stolce
15 Vineta Birina
16 Anna Busa
20 Amanda Betlere

Mudite Zandere
Rudolfs Rozitis


*****************************************************
  LITHUANIA   


Latvia U16 win Baltic Cup - by Eurobasket News

Latvia U16 - Lithuania U16 70:67 (OT)

Latvian U16 National Team celebrated the title at the 2012 Baltic Cup tournament in Tallinn. They held off Lithuanian counterparts for the third game in as many games played and took home the trophy.
Lithuania gained a 17:16 lead after ten minutes of action. Latvia bounced back as they limited their opponents to 6 points in the second quarter. Latvia secured a 26:23 halftime advantage. Lithuania denied the deficit in the third quarter drawing things level at 42. The teams went neck and neck throughout the fourth quarter. They were tied at 56 by the end of regulation. Latvia scored 14 points in extra period and snatched a narrow win at the end. Kate Kreslina (178-PG-96) scored 25 points to lead Latvia. Kitija Laksa (180-G-96) provided 13 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Dalia Belickaite (175-F-96) answered with 26 points for Lithuania. Agne Cerneckyte (171-SG-96) had 13 points in the loss.

Latvia U16: Kate Kreslina 25, Kitija Laksa 13, Kitija Stolce 9
Lithuania U16: Dalia Belickaite 26, Agne Cerneckyte 13


*****************************************************
  MONTENEGRO   


First defeat of Montenegro - by Dragan Scepanovic

SERBIA - MONTENEGRO 72:56 (15:16, 16:8, 16:17, 25:15)
Beograd - SC: Hala sportova. Spect: 2.000. Reff: Perea (SPA), Bart (GER), Lancarini (ITA).
SERBIA: Radocaj 16 (2-2), Mandic 10 (5-2), N. Jovanovic 3, Krnjic 5 (4-3), Ivanovic, Milovanovic 6, Matic 5 (2-1), Milica Dabovic (175-PG-82) 22 (10-6), Maksimovic, Baltic, A. Dabovic 3 (2-1), Skoric 2.
MONTENEGRO: Knezevic, Skerovic 9 (2-1), Culafic, Baletic 4 (2-2), Popovic, Aleksic 11 (4-3), Dubljevic 7 (4-3), Perovanovic 14 (4-4), Turcinovic, M. Jovanovic 11, Milutinovic, Bigovic.
Iva Perovanovic was the best in the ranks of Montenegro with 14 points and nine rebounds, while the third triumph of Serbia led by Milica Dabovic with 22 points (16 in the second half) and 11 rebounds.
"I congratulate my team-mates at an extraordinary battle, I am happy about the win. Thank you fans are cheering for us 40 minutes and be our sixth man. All we had to say about the game we said on the field," she said Milica Dabovic.


*****************************************************
  OLYMPIC GAMES   

Standings - Women

Standings
Group A
1. Angola0-0
2. Chile0-0
3. USA0-0
Group B
1. Australia0-0
2. Brazil0-0
3. U.Kingdom0-0
4. Russia0-0
Group Qualification Gr.A
1. Turkey3-0
2. Japan2-3
3. P.Rico0-2
Group Qualification Gr.B
1. Czech Rep.3-0
2. Argentina1-3
3. N.Zealand0-2
Group Qualification Gr.C
1. Croatia3-0
2. S.Korea1-3
3. Mozambique.0-2
Group Qualification Gr.D
1. France3-0
2. Canada3-2
3. Mali0-2

Additional Qualifying Round: Round 6

Jul. 1: CAN - JPN 71-63


Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Jung-Ja SIN
  (185-C/F-80)
  Avg: 17.3
 1. Sin, KOR17.3 
 2. Mamiya, JPN16.4 
 3. Vrsaljko, CRO14.7 
 4. Kulichova, CZE14.3 
 5. Beon, KOR13.8 
 6. Gruda, FRA13.7 
 7. Viteckova, CZE13.7 
 8. Yacoubou-D., FRA13.0 
 9. Ivezic, CRO13.0 
 10. Mandir, CRO12.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Petra KULICHOVA
  CZE
  (198-C-84)
  Avg: 16
 1. Kulichova, CZE16.0 
 2. Sin, KOR9.8 
 3. Burgrova, CZE8.0 
 4. Caglar, TUR7.0 
 5. Mamiya, JPN6.8 
 6. Yacoubou-D., FRA6.7 
 7. Takada, JPN6.6 
 8. Phillips, CAN6.4 
 9. Burani, ARG6.3 
 10. Hollingswort., TUR6.3 
Assists Per Game
 Asami YOSHIDA
  (165-PG-87)
  Avg: 7.2
 1. Yoshida, JPN7.2 
 2. Jelavic, CRO6.0 
 3. Vardarli, TUR6.0 
 4. Dumerc, FRA5.3 
 5. Lawson-Wade, FRA5.0 
 6. Oga, JPN3.6 
 7. Pilypaitis, CAN3.6 
 8. Choi, KOR3.3 
 9. Mandir, CRO3.3 
 10. Yilmaz, TUR3.0 
Steals Per Game
 Ana LELAS
  CRO
  (183-G/F-83)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Lelas, CRO2.3 
 2. Ivezic, CRO2.3 
 3. Oga, JPN2.0 
 4. Choi, KOR2.0 
 5. Yoshida, JPN1.8 
 6. Cava, ARG1.8 
 7. Ivegin, TUR1.7 
 8. Horakova, CZE1.7 
 9. Pavon, ARG1.5 
 10. Gretter, ARG1.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Petra KULICHOVA
  CZE
  (198-C-84)
  Avg: 4.3
 1. Kulichova, CZE4.3 
 2. Vrsaljko, CRO2.0 
 3. Ndongue, FRA2.0 
 4. Burani, ARG1.5 
 5. Sin, KOR1.3 
 6. Murphy, CAN1.2 
 7. Digbeu, FRA1.0 
 8. Ayim, CAN1.0 
 9. Yacoubou-D., FRA1.0 
 10. Burgrova, CZE0.7 



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


Lider Pruszkow bring in Kiara Buford - by Eurobasket News

Lider Pruszkow strengthened their roster. They signed contract with Kiara Buford (180-G-89, agency: Gamble Sports Management, college: Minnesota). The guard will start her pro career in Poland. Kiara Buford has just graduated from the University of Minnesota. She tallied 13.6 points, 3.5 rebounds, 3.2 assists and 1.9 steals per game in her senior season. Kiara Buford earned All-Big Ten Honourable Mention in 2012. It was the second straight such an award for her. Kiara Buford also made it into Big Ten All-Freshmen Team in 2009. It the third signing for Lider Pruszkow in the off-season. They previously landed Tyra White (182-G-89) and Justyna Grabowska (177-G-81).


Netherlands edge Poland to earn 7th place in Reze - by Eurobasket News

Netherlands U18 - Poland U18 70:44

Netherlands clinched the seventh overall position at the international tournament in Reze. They knocked down Poland on the final day of the competition. Kourtney Treffers (186-F-94) stepped up with 21 points and 15 rebounds to lead the winners.
Netherlands jumped to a 16:12 lead after the opening quarter. They maintained the advantage throughout the second quarter. Netherlands ensured a 31:24 halftime lead. The Dutch team did not loosen the grasp in the third frame. They accumulated an 11-point buffer heading into the fourth quarter. Netherlands went on a 26:11 run in the final frame and sealed the victory at the end. Yordi Kathmann (176-F-94) knocked down 17 points, while Lisanne de Jonge (181-F-95) produced 9 points for the winners. Hotyn answered with 9 points for Poland. Julia Adamowicz (178-G-94) and Daria Marciniak (188-C-94) had 8 points apiece in the loss.

Netherlands U18: Kourtney Treffers 21+15 boards, Yordi Kathmann 17, Lisanne de Jonge 9
Poland U18: Hotyn 9, Julia Adamowicz 8, Daria Marciniak 8


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


Satu Mare signed Dara Kovacevic - by Dragana Vukovic

Management of CSM Satu Mare signed one year deal with Serbian center Dara Kovacevic (197-C-83). Last season Dara Kovacevic started in Spanish team Soller Joventud Mariana where she averaged 6.0 points and 4.7 rebounds. In January she moved in CSM Targoviste where she averaged 3.9 points and 2.6 rebounds during 9.3 minutes. She won Romanian Cup and Romanian Championship with CSM Targoviste.


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


Four new teams in Slovak Extraliga - by Barbora Stuchlikova

A number of participants in Slovak Extraliga will increase following season.

Previous season, just 7 teams played in the league. MBK Region Roznava and Dannax Sport Kosice decided to withdraw from Extraliga. Four new squads - BK Petrzalka, Piestanske Cajky, SKBD Rucon Spisska Nova Ves and BKZ Levice will join the remaining five - Good Angels Kosice, MBK Ruzomberok, SBK Samorin, ZBK Whirpool Poprad and SK Morris Cassovia Kosice.

As usually, it is expected that Good Angels Kosice and MBK Ruzomberok will fight for the title. Both teams are also going to participate in European Competitions - Good Angels in EuroLeague and Ruzomberok in EuroCup.


Martin Pospisil to coach Piestanske Cajky, Palenikova and Krc-Turbova back to Slovakia - by Barbora Stuchlikova

As announced by SITA, Piestanske Cajky, one of the newcomers in Slovak Extraliga, signed Martin Pospisil as a head coach. Pospisil served as an assistant coach in men's basketball club BK Inpek UKF Nitra previous season. He has also experiences with women's basketball. In 2012-2011 he led BK Inpek UKF Nitra to bronze medal in Extraliga and with Natalia Hejkova coached Slovak Women NT at EuroBasket 2011. Besides senior basketball, Pospisil also took over U16 and U18 women NT.

Marta Palenikova (184-G/F-92) and Lucia Krc-Turbova (185-F-87) were members of Pospisil's bronze squad of 2011. Due to Nitra's withdrawing from Extraliga, after a successful season both players signed contracts with Czech clubs. Palenikova joined Euroleague Frisco Sika Brno and Krc-Turbova helped BK Lokomotiva Karlovy Vary.
Palenikova participated in 7 (out of 14) EuroLeague games and averaged 1,4 points per game. In Czech ZBL, she added 2.8 points in average.

In Karlovy Vary, Krc-Turbova as one of the key players of the team, averaged in ZBL 13.3 points and 6,9 rebounds per game.

Piestanske Cajky also bring in forward Michaela Malinkova (173-F-85), who used to play in Myjava and Slovan Bratislava.


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


Istanbul Universitesi to sign Anna Montanana, according to report - by Eurobasket News

According to Turkish media (Basketdergisi.com, via Lovewomensbasketball.com), Istanbul Universitesi will sign Anna Montanana (186-F-80, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: G.Washington) for the next season. The news is not officially confirmed by the club. The Spanish forward played last season for ZVVZ USK Praha and helped them to win the championship title in Czech Republic. She had 9.2 ppg, 4.4 rpg and 2.6 apg in 34 ZBL games. Montanana played 15 games in Euroleague collecting 10.3 ppg, 4.3 rpg and 2.5 apg. The forward and her team also were Cup winners in Czech Republic this year.
In 2010/11 season Anna Montanana played for Perfumerias Avenida Salamanca. She won the Euroleague title with them. For 15 games the player registered 7.4 ppg, 2.7 rpg and 2.1 apg. Perfumerias also won the title in Spanish league, where Montanana had almost the same numbers as in Euroleague. Before Perfumerias, she spent two years with Ros Casares winning two championship titles and two Spanish Cups.


Spain clinch two victories at Torneo de Castelldefels - by Eurobasket News

Spanish U16 National Team finished the Torneo de Castelldefels with two wins in three games played.
Spain opened the tournament with a 73:44 victory over Turkey. The hosts built a 24:17 halftime lead. They knocked down 25 points in the third quarter to boost the lead to 19 points at the final break. Spain maintained the lead throughout the fourth quarter marching to the victory. Salvadores stepped up with 14 points for Spain. Molinuevo added 12 points in the victory. Erkoyuncu answered with 10 points for Turkey. Gulcan had 9 points in the loss.
Next Spain took on Belgium. And once again the hosts looked better claiming a 76:54 win. Molinuevo knocked down 18 points to pace the home team. Spain built a 24:17 halftime lead. They stretched the margin to 19 points at the final intermission and raced to the win at the end. Salvadores accounted for 12 points for the winners. Eva Devliegher (170-PG-96) stepped up with 16 points for Belgium. Nauwelaers finished with 8 points in the losing case.
Finally Spain took on their French counterparts. The teams were tied at 12 after ten minutes. But France went on a 20:7 run in the second quarter to build a comfortable lead at halftime. Spain narrowed the deficit to just six points at the final intermission. They got even closer in the fourth term but France secured a 60:56 win at the end. Lisa Berkani (173-G-97) and Louise Dambach accounted for 11 points each to lead France. Salvadores answered with 15 points for Spain. Quevedo had 9 points in the loss.


*****************************************************
  SWEDEN   


Sweden fire past Czech Republic in Reze - by Eurobasket News

Sweden U18 - Czech Republic U18 66:48

Sweden capped their Reze international tournament campaign with victory. They knocked down Czech Republic to occupy the fifth overall position. Gabriella Frykbo (170-G-94) and Paulina Hersler (190-PF-94) scored 13 points each to lead the winners.
Sweden held their opponents to 8 points in the first quarter to take a 2-point lead 10:8. Czech Republic narrowed the deficit to a single point at halftime 23:24. Sweden went on a full throttle in the third quarter. They outscored Czech Republic 26:6 to enter the final period up by 21 points. The Czechs had little to answer with and though they outscored the Scandinavian team in the final stanza could not avoid the loss. Agnes Mellstrom (184-G-94) provided 10 points for the winners. Kamila Hoskova (174-F-95) responded with 10 points for Czech Republic. Sarka Jozova (173-G-94) netted 7 points in the losing case.

Sweden U18: Gabriella Frykbo 13, Paulina Hersler 13, Agnes Mellstrom 10
Czech Republic U18: Kamila Hoskova 10, Sarka Jozova 7


Great Start for Sweden! - by Johan Anderson

Sweden U18 - Czech Republic U18 66:48
Sweden capped their Reze international tournament campaign with victory. They knocked down Czech Republic to occupy the fifth overall position. Gabriella Frykbo (170-G-94) (170-G-94) and Paulina Hersler (190-PF-94) (190-PF-94) scored 13 points each to lead the winners.
Sweden held their opponents to 8 points in the first quarter to take a 2-point lead 10:8. Czech Republic narrowed the deficit to a single point at halftime 23:24. Sweden went on a full throttle in the third quarter. They outscored Czech Republic 26:6 to enter the final period up by 21 points. The Czechs had little to answer with and though they outscored the Scandinavian team in the final stanza could not avoid the loss. Agnes Mellstrom (184-G-94) provided 10 points for the winners. Kamila Hoskova (174-F-95) (174-F-95) responded with 10 points for Czech Republic. Sarka Jozova (173-G-94) netted 7 points in the losing case.

Sweden U18: Gabriella Frykbo 13, Paulina Hersler 13, Agnes Mellstrom 10
Czech Republic U18: Kamila Hoskova 10, Sarka Jozova 7


*****************************************************
  TURKEY   


Turkey U16 lose two in Spain - by Eurobasket News

Turkish U16 National Team suffered back-to-back losses at the start of Castelldefels Tournament in Spain.
Turkey faced the hosts in the opener. Turkey were not able to match their opponents suffering a 44:73 loss. The hosts built a 24:17 halftime lead. They knocked down 25 points in the third quarter to boost the lead to 19 points at the final break. Spain maintained the lead throughout the fourth quarter marching to the victory. Salvadores stepped up with 14 points for Spain. Molinuevo added 12 points in the victory. Betul Erkoyuncu answered with 10 points for Turkey. Melis Gulcan (180-G-96) had 9 points in the loss.
Next Turkey took on French counterparts. France got to a flying start as they built a 28:17 halftime lead. Turkey never got within striking distance in the second half and had to surrender at the end. Lisa Berkani (173-G-97) accounted for 12 points to pace the winners. Mathilde Combes (182-G-96) added 15 boards for France. Selin Kesen answered with 12 points for Turkey. Sevgi Uzun notched 8 points in the losing case.


Turkey thump Belgium to occupy third place in Reze - by Eurobasket News

Turkey U18 - Belgium U18 85:52

Turkish U18 National Team celebrated the third place at the international tournament in Reze. They knocked down Belgium on the final day of the competition. Elif Emirtekin (184-F-94) came up with 17 points and 7 rebounds to lead the winners.
Turkey exploded with 27 points in the first quarter to clear off. They gained an 11-point lead at the first break. Turkey maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. They registered a 45:26 halftime buffer. Turkey stayed aggressive throughout the third frame. They accounted for a 26-point lead with one quarter remaining and never looked back again. Gisem Sezer produced 15 points, while Pelin Bilgic (173-G-94) had 13 points for the winning side. Heleen Adams (173-SF-94) replied with 10 points for Belgium. Axelle Bernard (183-C-95) notched 9 points in the loss.

Turkey U18: Elif Emirtekin 17, Gizem Sezer (196-C-94) 15, Pelin Bilgic 13
Belgium U18: Heleen Adams 10, Axelle Bernard 9


Istanbul Universitesi to sign Anna Montanana, according to report - by Eurobasket News

According to Turkish media (Basketdergisi.com, via Lovewomensbasketball.com), Istanbul Universitesi will sign Anna Montanana (186-F-80, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: G.Washington) for the next season. The news is not officially confirmed by the club. The Spanish forward played last season for ZVVZ USK Praha and helped them to win the championship title in Czech Republic. She had 9.2 ppg, 4.4 rpg and 2.6 apg in 34 ZBL games. Montanana played 15 games in Euroleague collecting 10.3 ppg, 4.3 rpg and 2.5 apg. The forward and her team also were Cup winners in Czech Republic this year.
In 2010/11 season Anna Montanana played for Perfumerias Avenida Salamanca. She won the Euroleague title with them. For 15 games the player registered 7.4 ppg, 2.7 rpg and 2.1 apg. Perfumerias also won the title in Spanish league, where Montanana had almost the same numbers as in Euroleague. Before Perfumerias, she spent two years with Ros Casares winning two championship titles and two Spanish Cups.


Edrinespor adds guard Halime Uykan - by Eurobasket News

Edrinespor reinforced its roster at position two. The Turkish team signed a deal with 23-year-old guard Halime Uykan (165-G-89). She arrives to the club from Nesibe Aydin, where she spent last season. They competed in TKB2L. From 2007 to 2010, Uykan was a member of Istanbul Universitesi SK, They played two years in TKBL and one in TKB2L, but Uykan appeared only once for the club in their last season together before they parted ways in November of 2009. In 2008/09 season she had 3.6 ppg, 2.2 rpg and 1.9 apg for 17 games in TKB2L. The team was runner-up in the league that season and won the promotion for Turkish top division. Halime Uykan played for Turkish U20 and U18 National Team in the past.
Something more than a month ago Edrinespor penned deals with Gamze Karatas (196-C-89) and Yasemin Ibek (G-91). They also signed for the next season.
Gamze Karatas arrives to Edrine from Samsun, where she spent last season. However, Karatas had very limited playing time with Samsun and actually appeared only four times in the league. Before Samsun, the player spent three years with Besiktas. She also was a member of the Turkish U20 National Team.
Yasemin Ibek joins Edrine Spot from Izmirspot Konak Bld. She also has experience from Antakya, Cehyhan and Galatasaray. With Antakya, Ibek was TKB2L Play-Off runner-up in 2011. In the past, Ibek played for U16 Turkish NT.


*****************************************************
  UKRAINE   


Ukraine finish Baltic Cup with victory - by Eurobasket News

Estonia U16 - Ukraine U16 45:71

Ukrainian U16 National Team finished their 2012 Baltic Cup campaign with victory. They knocked down hosting Estonia in Tallinn. Vita Gorobets stepped up with 28 points and 10 rebounds to lead the charge.
Ukraine strongly entered the game. They outscored Estonia 21:9 in the opening quarter. Ukraine boosted the lead in the second quarter. The visitors arrived at halftime up by 26 points 40:14. Estonia tried to change things around in the second half. The hosts outscored Ukraine in the third quarter to narrow the margin at 20-point mark. But Ukraine quickly restored a 20+ distance in the fourth frame and cruised to the victory at the end. Anastasiya Polovynka (176-G-96) produced 11 points, while Yatskovets had 9 points for the winning side. Laura Reissar (171-PG-97) and Tatjana Razguljaeva (170-g-96) had 12 points each for Estonia.

Estonia U16: Laura Reissar 12, Tatjana Razguljaeva 12
Ukraine U16: Vita Gorobets 28+10 boards, Anastasiya Polovynka 11, Yatskovets 9


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


WBCBL National Picture Beginning to Take Shape! - by Lucius Jones

The 2012 WBCBL season is off to an amazing start with many franchises across the Nation establishing themselves as National Contenders. Here's a brief look around the National LeaderBoard:

The Kansas Nuggets are off to an 8-0 start to pace the league. Led by the 1-2 punch of Ashley Jappa (6'2''-F) and Dayon Hall-Jones who are scoring 15ppg and 14ppg. The Saint Louis Surge are right behind Kansas at 7-1 and are near the top of the National standings as well.

The Columbus Lady Wings are also undefeated at 6-0. Brittaney Thomas (5'8''-G-88, agency: Merit Sports) scores 20ppg and Monica Sicka is currently at 17ppg.

The Miami Rain are at 5-0 currently and are among the National leaders again this year. Ft Lauderdale Lions sit right behind Miami at 3-1.

4 Teams seem to have a legit shot at their Regional crown in the Carolina's Region: Fayetteville Lady Rush (5-1), Winston-Salem Lady Warcats (7-2), Charleston LowCounty Fire (6-2), USA Elite (6-2).

Dallas Crest sit at 5-1. Dallas Lady Diesel are 3-1 right now with Charity Ford (5'8''-G-88) leading the team at 11ppg. Louisiana All Stars rest a game behind the two at 3-2.

Columbus Hidden Gems are at 5-1 which is only one game ahead of the Flint Lady Monarchs at 3-2. Columbus Hidden Gems has Brittany Smart (5'9''-G-85, college: Cedarville) and Jeannie Saunders (5'8''-G-86, college: Salem Intern.) each filling up the statsheet. Flint is led by Natasha Morris (5'8''-G/F-88, agency: Dow Sports Management, college: St.Peter's).

Seattle, Washington is unblemished at 3-0 so far.

The Mississippi Storm have a 3-1 record at the moment.

Orlando Extreme also rest at 3-1 so far. <<>><<>>


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

Standings

WNBA Standings
Eastern
 1. Connecticut S. 10-4 
 2. Indiana F. 8-5 
 3. Chicago S. 8-5 
 4. Atlanta D. 7-8 
 5. New York L. 5-9 
 6. Washington M. 4-10 
Western
 1. Minnesota L. 13-2 
 2. L.Angeles S. 9-7 
 3. Seattle S. 8-8 
 4. S.Antonio SS 7-5 
 5. Phoenix M. 4-10 
 6. Tulsa S. 2-12 

Regular Season: Round 19

Jul. 1: S.Antonio SS - Minnesota L. 93-84
Jul. 1: Washington M. - Phoenix M. 90-77
Jul. 1: Connecticut S. - Seattle S. 83-89 OT
Jul. 1: Chicago S. - Atlanta D. 71-69

Regular Season: Round 20

Jul. 3: S.Antonio SS - Phoenix M.
Jul. 5: L.Angeles S. - Minnesota L.
Jul. 5: Indiana F. - S.Antonio SS
Jul. 6: Washington M. - S.Antonio SS
Jul. 6: Tulsa S. - Connecticut S.
Jul. 6: Chicago S. - New York L.


Sparks and Liberty release sisters Miller - by Eurobasket News

Los Angeles Sparks have waived Coco Miller (5'9''-G-78, college: Georgia), while New York Liberty have waived her twin sister Kelly Miller (5'10''-G-78, college: Georgia).
Coco Miller appeared 10 times for the Sparks this season averaging 2.6 points and 2.7 rebounds. She joined the club at the beginning of June. Coco spent last three WNBA seasons with Atlanta Dream. In the past, she played for Washington Mystics. During the WNBA off-season, Coco played for Turkish Samsun (2011/12).
Kelly Miller arrived to Liberty during the pre-season. She played 11 games in the league registering just 1 ppg. Kelly played for Washington Mystics in 2011 and for Atlanta Dream in 2010 WNBA season. Before that, she was a member of Minnesota Lynx and Phoenix Mercury. Kelly spent 2011/12 European season with Samsun, together with her sister.


Phoenix Mercury release PG Andrea Riley - by Eurobasket News

Andrea Riley (5'5''-PG-88, college: Oklahoma St.) is no longer a member of the Phoenix Mercury. The team released Riley yesterday. The American point guard arrived to Phoenix during the pre-season. She appeared 9 times in the league averaging 2.8 ppg, 1.6 rpg and 1 apg. However, it seems that was not enough for the club to keep her.
Andrea Riley played last season for Tulsa Shock. There she had 5.9 ppg, 1.7 apg and 1.2 rpg for 32 games. Meanwhile, she played in Europe for the Turkish team Tarsus. Riley is a product of the Oklahoma State University, where she graduated in 2010. She exploded with 26.7 ppg, 6.5 apg and 3.4 rpg in their last season together. Actually, Riley was their best player all four years.


Sunday's games review (4): Hammon and Young lead Silver Stars over Lynx 93-84 - by Eurobasket News

S.Antonio SS - Minnesota L. 93-84
Becky Hammon (5'6''-PG-77, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Colorado St.) scored 23 points and Sophia Young (6'1''-F-83, college: Baylor) added 22 to lead the San Antonio Silver Stars to a 93-84 win over the Minnesota Lynx on Sunday San Antonio (7-5) never trailed, extended its home winning streak to five and won its fifth in six games overall. The Silver Stars have not trailed in their past three victories. Reserve Monica Wright led Minnesota (13-2) with 18 points, Lindsay Whalen added 15 and Rebekkah Brunson 13. "When we play them, it's kind of a playoff atmosphere," Silver Stars reserve Jia Perkins said. "We knew today it was going to be a game full of runs. We wanted to hit them in the mouth and we knew they were going to hit us right back. We just needed to stay the course." The Silver Stars made their first three 3-point attempts in sprinting to a 15-4 lead. Jayne Appel made a free throw following an off-balance jumper to give San Antonio a 20-10 lead midway through the first. The Silver Stars made 6 of 7 shots from 3-point range and took a 35-22 lead after the first quarter. All eight Silver Stars who played in the first quarter scored. "Right now we're all on the same wavelength," San Antonio forward Shameka Christon said. "We come out with a lot of energy, and obviously that's to our advantage." Christon made her first three attempts for the fourth straight home game to spark another fast start by San Antonio. Reserve Monica Wright rallied the Lynx, hitting a fadeaway jumper to pull them to 42-36 midway through the second. She hit three jumpers over the Silver Stars' shorter defenders as the Lynx used their size advantage to outscore San Antonio 21-12 in the second. Minnesota outrebounded the Stars 12-6 in the quarter, blocked two shots and attempted eight free throws compared to one for San Antonio. The Silver Stars' balanced scoring faded in the second quarter. Only three players scored in the quarter as San Antonio went 5 of 17 from the field. Seimone Augustus hit a pair of free throws with 12.6 seconds to pull Minnesota to 47-43 - the closest the Lynx had been since trailing 7-4 in the first two minutes of the game. "We controlled the first quarter and they certainly controlled the second," Silver Stars coach Dan Hughes said. "The second half gave us the ability to slightly play two good quarters in a row, which gave us a chance to win." San Antonio rebuilt a double-digit lead by hitting its first three 3-point attempts in the third. Shameka Christon's second 3-pointer of the opening minutes gave San Antonio a 56-45 lead. Hammon's 3-pointer gave San Antonio a 77-66 advantage and led Moore to pound the scorer's table as she waited to sub in. Moore had an immediate impact upon entering. She ran down a long rebound and hit a driving layup to pull Minnesota within 77-68 and then stole a pass while providing weak-side help and fed a streaking Whalen for a layup to cut the deficit to 78-75. San Antonio responded by going on a 13-2 run capped by Young's layup on Hammon's eighth and final assist of the game. "I just think we have some girls that understand what it takes to win close basketball games," Hammon said. "Shameka has been in the league for a while, as well as Sophia and myself. We know down the stretch that we want to be good closers." *Courtesy of www.startribune.com

Connecticut S. - Seattle S. 83-89 OT
A day after not playing well, the Seattle Storm rebounded in a big way on Sunday. Camille Little (6'2''-F/G-85, college: N.Carolina) scored five of her game-high 27 points in overtime and added nine rebounds and Seattle beat the Connecticut Sun 89-83. It was the sixth win in seven games for the Storm (7-8). Seattle shot 32.2 percent in a 77-59 loss to the New York Liberty on Saturday. "It got our attention," Storm coach Brian Agler said. "We had a good win at Washington (72-55 on June 24). We were on a good stretch. We go to New York. We sit in a hotel for three days. Everybody is telling us how good we were playing now, and we go in there and lay an egg. "We had quite a few conversations between last night and today. ... We talked more about ourselves and what we have to get corrected and how that's not us. (The) Seattle Storm, we compete. We're champions." Tina Thompson (6'2''-F-75, agency: Merit Sports, college: USC) had 20 points, seven rebounds and four blocks for Seattle on Sunday. Sue Bird added 11 points, eight assists and five rebounds, and reserve Ewelina Kobryn had 13 points. The Storm played without starting center Ann Wauters (strained calf). "We were so disappointed in (Saturday's) game," Little said. "We didn't play our best, even close to our best basketball. We all individually and collectively decided to play better." Asjha Jones had 15 points and 11 rebounds for Connecticut (10-4) and Kara Lawson scored a team-high 22. Tina Charles had 13 points and 14 rebounds. "They were just playing me really hard," Charles said. "They had a lot of double teams. They clogged the paint. It was tough." Charles has shot 32 percent in Connecticut's past four games. She's averaged 11.5 points during that stretch. "She is getting double-teamed a lot," Sun coach Mike Thibault said. "She has missed some shots that she normally makes. I thought early in the game (Sunday), she settled for some jump shots. I thought that she had a matchup where she could attack inside." The Sun shot 35.2 percent against Seattle. "Basically, we just got outplayed," Thibault said. "They're three post players scored 60 of their 89 points. We didn't shoot it well, but credit their defense. "I thought we were a step behind in some areas defensively tonight and it cost us." Katie Smith made a contested 3-pointer from the right corner with less than three minutes left in overtime to give Seattle a 79-78 lead. Little made the second of two free throws to extend the Storm's lead. Bird followed with an open 3-pointer to push her team ahead 83-78 with 1:52 left. Lawson made three free throws for the Sun to cut their deficit to two. On Seattle's next possession, Little had a putback off a missed Thompson 3-pointer to give Seattle an 85-81 edge. Allison Hightower (16 points, four assists) made two free throws for Connecticut with 48.3 seconds remaining. Moments later, Little drove for a layup. Both teams had a chance to win in regulation. Bird missed two free throws with 13.6 seconds left. Jones and Charles each missed shots on the other end as the game went into overtime. Lawson made a 3-pointer with under three minutes left in regulation to give Connecticut a 74-71 lead. Less than a minute later, Thompson got wide-open and made a 3-pointer to tie it. *Courtesy of http://seattletimes.nwsource.com

Chicago S. - Atlanta D. 71-69
Sylvia Fowles (6'6''-C-85, college: LSU) scored 21 points, including two go-ahead free throws with 33 seconds to play, and Chicago snapped a 4-game losing streak with a 71-69 victory over Atlanta on Sunday night. The Sky (8-5) rallied from a 14-point third-quarter deficit and led by as many as seven in the fourth before the Dream (7-8) briefly reclaimed the lead at 69-68 on Sancho Lyttle's baseline 3-pointer with 47 seconds remaining. Fowles also had 12 rebounds while Shay Murphy scored 13 points, Sonja Petrovic had 12 and Le'coe Willingham added 11 for the Sky. Angel McCoughtry (6'1''-F-86, college: Louisville) paced the Dream with 21 points, Lyttle had 18 and Lindsey Harding added 13. The Dream had their 3-game winning streak snapped. *Courtesy of www.wtvm.com

Washington M. - Phoenix M. 90-77
The Washington Mystics used a fast start to end their skid. Crystal Langhorne (6'2''-F/C-86, college: Maryland) scored 22 points and Noelle Quinn (6'0''-G-85, college: UCLA) scored a season-high 18 and the Mystics earned a 90-77 win over the Phoenix Mercury on Sunday. Rookie Natalie Novosel added 12 points for the Mystics (3-10), who entered the game averaging the fewest points in the WNBA, but produced their highest scoring total of the season. Washington never trailed en route to snapping a five-game skid, which included a loss at Phoenix 12 days ago. Charde Houston scored 17 of her 26 points in the second half for the Mercury (4-10), matching her career best. DeWanna Bonner and Samantha Prahalis each scored 20. Langhorne scored 11 points and the Mystics finished the first quarter shooting 64.7 percent for a 27-18 lead. It marked the first time all season Washington led after the first quarter. "First quarters and third quarters have been our Achilles' heel and the starters did a great job. They got after it defensively, got us a lead," Quinn said. "We didn't have to play from behind, we didn't dig ourselves into a hole. We kept our lead, kept our aggression and just played together. The Mystics scored a season-high 50 first-half points for a 50-41 lead at halftime and extended the lead to 16 in the second half. Part of the Mystics' starting lineup most of the season, Quinn came off the bench against the Mercury, but was front and center throughout. "It's a good look for me," Quinn said about the reserve role. "It makes me come in there knowing that I have to be a difference maker." She scored eight consecutive points for Washington in the second quarter, helping to offset Bonner's 18 first-half points. Phoenix pulled with five at 69-64 early in the fourth quarter, but the Mystics quickly countered with a 6-0 run. "I just think because it's not done all the time, teams can forget about (Noelle) a little bit," Houston said. "When you forget about her, that's when she kills you. She definitely hurt us tonight." Langhorne added seven points inside the final 4:46 as the Mystics held on for their third home win of the season. "When it came time for us to make key stops, we struggled," Houston said. Washington's other victories this season were by a combined four points. "Anytime you win it's very calming," Langhorne said. "When you keep losing, it's stressful. To get this win today, it's a good feeling." The short-handed Mercury have lost seven of nine road games this season. Diana Taurasi (hip flexor) has missed 12 of 14 games this season and Candice Dupree (left knee contusion) sat out a fifth straight game. Washington closes its four-game homestand on Friday against San Antonio after Phoenix wraps up its four-game road trip against the Silver Stars on Tuesday. *Courtesy of www.nola.com