EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 7/30/2012 1:04:01 AM

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Men News

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  ANDORRA   



U16 European Championship: Andorra beat Malta to claim 5th place - by Eurobasket News

Andorra U16 - Malta U16 76:67

Andorra posted the victory on the final day of U16 European Championship in Division C. They knocked down Malta to claim the fifth overall position. Sergi Jordana (178-G-96) came up with 21 points to lead the charge.
Malta led by as many as six points at the first intermission 20:14. Andorra took over in the second quarter. They exploded with a 25:7 rally to secure a 39:27 halftime advantage. Malta cut the distance in the third term. They narrowed the deficit at 6-point mark at the final intermission. But Andorra scored 20 points in the fourth period and escaped with the victory at the end. Jimenez Martinez had 18 points and 10 rebounds for Andorra. Blanca Salinas netted 9 points in the winning case. Zane Micallef (170-PG-96) answered with 18 points for Malta. Kieron Caruana (178-F/C-97) had 12 points and 11 rebounds in the loss.

Andorra U16: Sergi Jordana 21, Sergi Jimenez 18+10 boards, Christian Salinas (188-G) 9
Malta U16: Zane Micallef 18, Kieron Caruana 12+11 boards


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  ARGENTINA   


Olympics 2012: Argentina open with win over Lithuania - by Eurobasket News

Argentina - Lithuania 102:79

Argentina earned the opening win at the Olympic Games basketball tournament. Luis Scola (204-PF-80) scored 32 points to lead the Latin American team past Lithuania.
Argentina confidently started the game. Three-pointers from Emanuel Ginobili (198-SG-77, agency: Interperformances) and Prigioni set the tone. Lithuania soon got things going as well. The teams eagerly exchange baskets throughout intense first quarter. Argentina eked out a 24:23 lead at the first break. The Latin American side increased the tempo in the second quarter. A barrage of three-pointers from Carlos Delfino (200-SF-82) helped Argentina accumulate a 51:39 halftime advantage. Argentina stayed on fire from behind the arc in the third quarter. Luis Scola executed well inside the paint helping Argentina take a 17-point lead at the final intermission. Lithuania stood no chance in the final quarter as Argentina stayed calm and determined in the final period. Emanuel Ginobili posted 21 points, 10 rebounds and 6 assists, while Carlos Delfino added 20 points for the winners. Linas Kleiza (203-SF-85, college: Missouri) answered with 20 points and 7 boards for Lithuania. Paulius Jankunas (205-PF-84, agency: Alti Sport) had 14 points in defeat.

Argentina: Luis Scola 32, Emanuel Ginobili 21+10 boards, Carlos Delfino 20
Lithuania: Linas Kleiza 20, Paulius Jankunas 14


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  AUSTRALIA   


Olympics 2012: Brazil won over Australia in London - by Eurobasket News

Brazil-Australia 75:71

Brazil won over Australia in London in the opener of Group B at Olympics 2012. The Brazilian team outscored Australia 75:71 at the Basketball Arena.
Although Australia won the opening period 20-19, they could not stay tough against the opponents. Brazil replied with 17-15 in the second period and took 36:35 at the halftime. Later on Brazil dominated the court starting the third period with 6-0 run. Leandrinho Barbosa (190-PG-82) scored for 52:39, while Australia cut it to 52:47 after an 8-0 run. Anderson Varejao (205-C-82) again increased to 10 points early in the fourth and he later scored for 67:62. Joe Ingles (203-SF-87, agency: Priority Sports) reduced to 73:71, but Marcelinho Huertas (191-PG-83, agency: Edge Sports) was perfect from the free throw line at the end of the game.
Leandrinho Barbosa top-scored for the winners with 16 points and Marcelinho Huertas collected 15 points and 10 assists. Anderson Varejao nailed 12, while Hilario posted 8. Patrick Mills (183-PG-88, college: St.Mary's, CA) ended up with 20 points in the losing effort and Joe Ingles notched 15. David Andersen (212-C-80) poured in 14, while Aron Baynes (208-C-86, college: Washington St.) delivered 10.

Brazil: Leandrinho Barbosa 16, Marcelinho Huertas 15+10 ast, Anderson Varejao 12, Hilario 8
Australia: Patrick Mills 20, Joe Ingles 15, David Andersen 14, Aron Baynes 10


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  AUSTRIA   


Austria U18 lose two against Slovakia - by Eurobasket News

Austrian U18 National Team played two friendly games against Slovakian counterparts. The hosts lost both games in Oberwart.
The first game ended with Slovakia claiming a 68:59 victory. The visitors led from the start posting a 38:20 halftime lead. Austria went on a 24:13 run in the final quarter but it was too late as they just managed to cut the deficit at the end. Timur Bas (195-C-94) and Haas stepped up with 11 points for Austria. Victor Poltier (186-G-94) delivered 9 points, 18 rebounds and 5 blocks in defeat.
Next game looked better for Austria in the opening quarter. The hosts grabbed an 11:8 lead after ten minutes. But Slovakia gradually increased the tempo and posted a 21:19 halftime lead. The visitors limited Austria to 20 points in the second half and registered a 52:39 victory at the end. Valentin Bauer (180-PG-94) provided 12 points for the home team. Muller netted 8 points in the loss.


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  BELARUS   


U16 European Championship: Netherlands finished 9th in Bucharest - by Eurobasket News

Belarus U16-Netherlands U16 63:71

Netherlands finished 9th in Bucharest at the U16 European Championship in Division B. The Dutch side overcame Belarus 71:63 in the last game for both teams at the tournament. The latter meanwhile finished on the 10th position.
Both teams tried to finish the tournament on the higher place and showed their best in the last game. Belarus won the opening period 22-15, but failed in the rest of the quarters. Netherlands replied with 21-17 in the second frame and Tom de Haas closed the half at 39:36. Yannick Franke (185-G-96) nailed three midway through the third period to give his side 47:46 advantage and he also was the last to score in the period for 53:46 lead. Netherlands added 18-14 in the last stanza to seal a necessary win.
Yannick Franke top-scored for the winners with 26 points and David Hahn (198-C-96) collected 10 points and 12 rebounds. Maksim Salash (203-C-96) replied with 27 points and 12 rebounds, while Roman Rubinshteyn (190-PG-96) notched 13. Uladzislau Kandybovic (190-G-96) delivered 12 and Bohdan Repeka (195-F-96) added 6.

Belarus U16: Maksim Salash 27+12 rebs, Roman Rubinshteyn 13, Uladzislau Kandybovic 12, Bohdan Repeka 6
Netherlands U16: Yannick Franke 26, David Hahn 10+12 rebs


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  BELGIUM   


U16 European Championship: Belgium clinch Division B title - by Eurobasket News

Montenegro U16-Belgium U16 46:56

Belgium clinch Division B title at the U16 European Championship. The team overcame Montenegro 56:46 in the Final to seal the important victory in Bucharest. Both teams advanced to Division A for the next year.
Although both teams advanced to the top division, their thoughts were still about the gold medals. Belgium started with 25:8 in the opening period and Kanda-Kanyinda scored for 19:10 early in the second. Montenegro meanwhile was far to give up and closed the half with 6-0 run that gave them 28:27 halftime advantage. Later on the teams exchanged the lead several times until Rayan Kayembe-Milongo (96) closed the third period at 40:36. He also scored five points in a row midway through the last quarter for 49:41. His free throws were also last in the game for the trophy in Bucharest.
Rayan Kayembe-Milongo top-scored for the title with 19 points and Sami Demirtas (189-G-96) netted 15. Raphael Dubois (192-F-96) and Justin Kohajda (203-C-96) followed them with 6 points apiece. Mihailo Radunovic (199-SF-96) and Aleksandar Dozic (199-F-96) finished the night with 9 points in the losing effort.

Montenegro U16: Mihailo Radunovic 9, Aleksandar Dozic 9+11 rebs
Belgium U16: Rayan Kayembe-Milongo 19, Sami Demirtas 15, Raphael Dubois 8, Justin Kohajda 6


Belfius Mons Transfer - by Peter Buyse

Another day, another player announced by Belfius Mons-Hainaut. This time they added former Gent player Monwell Randle (203-F/C-83, college: Southwest Missouri St.) to the roster for 2012-2013.
Monwell is no stranger to Belgian basketball having already played for Vilvoorde and Gent. Some of the other teams he played for are Zadar, Bergen-op-Zoom, Cholet and Oyak Bursa. He already played for new Mons coach Defraigne during his last year at Gent. At Gent during the 2010-2011 season he was among the leading rebounders in the Ethias league with 7.3 rpg. During his 3 years in Gent he was always among the top rebounders.
This past season he played in Turkey for Trabzonspor where he averaged 18 mpg, 5.2 ppg and 3.8 rpg.
According to the team's press release this concludes the roster for the 2012-2013 season.


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  BOSNIA   


U16 European Championship: Bosnia and Herzegovina finished 5th in Romania - by Eurobasket News

Israel U16- Bosnia and Herzegovina U16 65:71

Bosnia and Herzegovina finished 5th in Romania at the U16 European Championship in Division B. The team won over Israel 71:65 in their last game. The latter meanwhile ended up on the 6th position.
It was a game of two different halves. At first Israel won the first period 19-17 and added 24-12 in the second frame. It seemed that 43:29 lead at the halftime was enough for Israel but Bosnia and Herzegovina did not give up. Beronja reduced to 52:49 at the end of the third period and Aleksic tied the game at 61:61 with 3 minutes to go. Bosnia finished the game with 10-4 burst and won the game.
Ivo Garic (192-PG-96) top-scored for the winners with 15 points and Sandro Gacic (196-SG-96) nailed 11. Aleksandar Lazic (198-SG-96) collected 10 points and 10 rebounds in the winning effort. Tamir Blatt (178-PG-97) finished the game with 19 points and Roi Huber (184-G-97) scored 13 in defeat. Eran Tessone (200-G-96) poured in 11, whilst Yevgeni Holodov (178-PG-96) added 7.

Israel U16: Tamir Blatt 19, Roi Huber 13, Eran Tessone 11, Yevgeni Holodov 7
Bosnia and Herzegovina U16: Ivo Garic 15, Sandro Gacic 11, Aleksandar Lazic 10+10 rebs,


Nermin Hujdurovic joins OKK Sloboda - by Nedzad Kladusak

OKK Sloboda formerly known as Sloboda Dita has signed its first reinforcement for the upcoming season.
Nermin Hujdurovic (205-F/C-88, agency: Kotnik Sports Agency) who played last season for Vogosca and who played for the US college St Johns has signed for one season.
Sloboda has been relegated to the A2 division after having accumulated large debts. Sloboda that used to be one of the regional powerhouses
and the first team of such distinguished players like Mirza Delibasic, Mirza Teletovic, Damir Mrsic, Mirza Begic and Damir Mulaomerovic will compete in the A1 division.


Sinanovic close to Alba Berlin? - by Nedzad Kladusak

According to rumours NT center Nedzad Sinanovic (221-C-83) negotiates with Alba Berlin and an agreement seems to be very close.
Alba Berlin has already signed Nihad Djedovic and is looking to sign a big men for the upcoming season .Berlin has been granted a wild card for the Euroleague thus becoming an attractive destination.
Nedzad Sinanovic, the tallest Bosnian center, has played so far for Zenica Celik, Verviers Pepinster and Unicaja Malaga. Nedzad Sinanovic joined this year the BIH NT.


BIH defeats Israel 71-65 and secures fifth place - by Nedzad Kladusak

Bosnia-Hercegovina has won the game for the 5th place. Despite BIH didn t reach three places that would have promoted to division A the U16 team showed up great hustle in the final match of the U16 EC in Romania.
In the first half coach Firic gave his bench players significant playtime but one more time it turned out that the bench currently doesn t have the quality to play on the highest level of U16 B division. Particularly Tamir Blatt, son of the famous Israeli coach David Blatt, hurted the Bosnian team and helped his team to win the first half 43-29.
In the second half Firic brought four players of his starting five and slowly reduced the margin to a promising 54-49 at the end of the third quarter.
In the fourth quarter Israel stepped up the tempo and led the score for more than 7.But after Gacic scored the 61-58 and a crucial threepointer of young Djordje Aleksic BIH tied the score and the Israeli became nervous. Ivo Garic (192-PG-96), Gacic and Lazic took over and sealed the win for Bosnia-Hercegovina.

Of course it is a kind of dissapointment that BIH missed the promotion to division A but it would be worng to blame the kids. The team showed great hustle and cohesion. Some of the kids like the impressive Lazic and Gacic clearly showed that they will be pillars of the BIH U18 team even on division A level. Beronja, Smajlovic, Pilavdzic and Sesar and Ivo Garic (192-PG-96) showed great hustle and if they work hard they should get a shot with the U18 team. Other players like Stipanovic and Aleksic are still young and will get a chance to compete on U16 level.

Finally it is very important that the coaches know their players better and it is a good step that Gordan Firic will probably help to establish an efficient and promising talent academy of KK Bosna.

BIH: Ivo Garic (192-PG-96) 15 pts, Gacic 11 pts, Lazic 10 pts+10 rbs, Beronja 8pts +6rbs, Smajlovic 8 pts +9rbs, Balic 8pts, Sesar 4 pts+7rbs,Aleksic 3pts, Bevanda 2pts, Pilavdzic 2 pts.


Bosnia and Hercigovina U16 Cadet Basketball recap! - by Chris Mathieu

Bosnia and Hercigovina U16 Cadet Basketball recap!
The results for Gordan Firic and Emir Halmic were not what the team wanted or expected after last years surprising results. The team lacked a lot of size in the frontcourt and struggled at times keeping penetration out of the paint and protecting the rim. The team rebounded well except in an early loss to Montenegro. The team liked to run but struggled at times stopping penetration and taking the ball out of the basket (rebounding) against bigger and more disciplined teams.
The lack of depth and a consistent rotation also appeared to hurt the team. Players moved in and out of the rotation, starting lineup and even switching positions with little practice time with their teammates. There was a serious drop off in talent after the big two of Lazic and Gacic and then to the next 4-5 players and then again a big drop off after those players.
Sandro Gacic came into the campaign as the highest profile player but was overshadowed by the breakout debut of Aleksandar Lazic who proved himself as a top European talent of his generation in this series.
The team missed three of the best players of their generation Nedim Dedovic, Samir Sehic and Alija Piric. It would have been a much different series of games if these three players had been present on the court for BiH. Also the fact that Adnan Omeragic was starting for Spain and was one of their best players is another instance of Bosnia missing out on some of its top talent in the games. That doesnt even take into account the players who chose to play for Serbia and Croatia instead of BiH.
No Name Pos. Height Birth date Place of birth
4 Amar Balic PG 1.78 11.02.1996 Milan (ITA) A compact shooting guard in a pointgaurd body, Amar is a shooting guard who doesnt shoot well.
5 Dorde Kelecevic G 1.88 13.04.1996 Banja Luka (BIH) Dorde struggled mightily during the series and showed little.
6 Ivo Garic PG 1.92 23.04.1996 Livno (BIH) Ivo is a hardnosed defender who struggled to score and turned the ball over too much. As a role playing defender he would prove to be useful for the team in the future.
7 Petar Bevanda PG 1.86 12.03.1996 Zagreb (CRO) He was in and out of the rotation and struggled when he got onto the court.
8 Dorde Aleksic PG 1.85 04.04.1997 Ried In Innkreis (AUT) A decent scorer and ball handler he looked for his shot too often. Dorde has some upside as he is a very young player who is considered a decent European prospect. He should of gotten more minutes considering he likely will be back again next year with the team since he is only 15 years old.
9 Darijan Stipanovic C 2.06 31.08.1996 Tuzla (BIH) The biggest player on the team and one considered to have some of the biggest upside he surprisingly struggled to get on the court only playing 24 minutes during the tournament. He appeared to be in Firics doghouse and never got a chance to show his skill. It appeared that Firic didnt favor playing his big men much and instead preferred to get out and run as much as possible, going as small as possible at all times.
10 Mirsad Pilavdzic SG 1.95 26.02.1996 Tuzla (BIH) Another player for BiH who struggled to shoot and turned the ball over too much.
11 Stjepan Sesar PF 2.02 04.04.1996 Mostar (BIH) A crafty scorer who didnt get a chance to show his potential much in the games as the bigs didnt get a lot of playing time.
12 Faris Smajlovic FC 1.99 25.01.1996 Sarajevo (BIH) Faris was one of the best players for Bosnia during these games but appears very limited and doesnt appear to have great upside as a professional. He gave it his all and appeared to leave it all on the court every time.
13 Aleksandar Lazic SG 1.98 10.06.1996 Milici (BIH) Considering he hardly played in the first two games, Aleksandar was dominating in these games. He pulled down 14 rebounds in only 11 minutes against Georgia! Aleksandar was, by far the best player on the court for BiH. Lazic was soo impressive that he shot over 66% from three but hardly took any shots and ended up 4-6 for the tournament! Aleksandar should get an invite to play with the U18 team immediately! If you look at his numbers over 40 minutes he averaged 20ppg. 15rbpg 2aspg and over 1 steal and block per game! Amazing numbers for a shooting guard!
14 Sandro Gacic SG 1.96 05.07.1996 Mostar (BIH) Sandro is one of the most talented players of his generation but struggled during this tournament. He was moved from PG to small forward and had to play off the ball causing him to play an uncomfortable role as he usually plays with the ball in his hands and creates off the dribble.
15 Dorde Beronja C 1.99 06.01.1996 Loznica (BIH) Dorde was a crafty scorer whos defense and passing left a lot to be desired. He was one of the rotation players who showed well for BiH.

COACH Gordan Firic: His leaving Alija Piric off the team raised some eyebrows, his rotations, lineups and lack of use of his bigs raised more questions. He also played a lot of players out of position. He seemed to have his favorites and not so favorite and it showed. Overall the team played well and competed in every game. He did a good job overall and should be allowed to guide the team again if he is still interested.

FINAL TEAM GRADE: B- Considering the Bosnian players not on the team it was proven once again the lack of depth on the team was its downfall. In the future the team has to be able to build a team 8-9 deep of solid players who have the chance to be professionals in Europe and not just local amateurs.


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  BRAZIL   


Olympics 2012: Brazil won over Australia in London - by Eurobasket News

Brazil-Australia 75:71

Brazil won over Australia in London in the opener of Group B at Olympics 2012. The Brazilian team outscored Australia 75:71 at the Basketball Arena.
Although Australia won the opening period 20-19, they could not stay tough against the opponents. Brazil replied with 17-15 in the second period and took 36:35 at the halftime. Later on Brazil dominated the court starting the third period with 6-0 run. Leandrinho Barbosa (190-PG-82) scored for 52:39, while Australia cut it to 52:47 after an 8-0 run. Anderson Varejao (205-C-82) again increased to 10 points early in the fourth and he later scored for 67:62. Joe Ingles (203-SF-87, agency: Priority Sports) reduced to 73:71, but Marcelinho Huertas (191-PG-83, agency: Edge Sports) was perfect from the free throw line at the end of the game.
Leandrinho Barbosa top-scored for the winners with 16 points and Marcelinho Huertas collected 15 points and 10 assists. Anderson Varejao nailed 12, while Hilario posted 8. Patrick Mills (183-PG-88, college: St.Mary's, CA) ended up with 20 points in the losing effort and Joe Ingles notched 15. David Andersen (212-C-80) poured in 14, while Aron Baynes (208-C-86, college: Washington St.) delivered 10.

Brazil: Leandrinho Barbosa 16, Marcelinho Huertas 15+10 ast, Anderson Varejao 12, Hilario 8
Australia: Patrick Mills 20, Joe Ingles 15, David Andersen 14, Aron Baynes 10


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  BULGARIA   


U16 European Championship: Bulgaria grab the win over Switzerland - by Eurobasket News

Switzerland U16-Bulgaria U16 62:63

Bulgaria grab the win over Switzerland at the U16 European Championship in Division B. Even 35 points from Luka Mandic (195-F-96) were not enough for the Swiss side as they lost to the Bulgarian side 62:63. The latter finished on the 15th place in Bucharest.
It was a real thriller in the court and kept the spectators alive until the last seconds. At first Switzerland started with 19-12, but could not win the half. Bulgaria replied with 23-12 in the second frame and took 35:31 lead at the hlaftime after Alex Ouandie (193-G-96)s shot. Mathieu Giroud (185-SF-96) later gave Switzerland 41:40 lead, while Alex Ouandie closed the frame at 48:47. The squads exchanged the lead several more times in the fourth quarter and then Lyubomir Nedkov (193-G-96) scored for 61:61. Lyubomir Nedkov meanwhile scored the last basket for Bulgaria and brought a 1-point win.
Alexander Iliev (190-SG-96), Alex Ouandie, Tsanko Kraev (194-F-97) and Lyubomir Nedkov top-scored for the winners with 10 points each. Luka Mandic paced all the Swiss player with 35 points and 12 rebounds. Mathieu Giroud nailed 8, while Mattia Cafisi (181-PG-97) delivered 7 points.

Switzerland U16: Luka Mandic 35+12 rebs, Mathieu Giroud 8, Mattia Cafisi 7
Bulgaria U16: Alexander Iliev 10, Alex Ouandie 10, Tsanko Kraev 10, Lyubomir Nedkov 10


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  CANADA   


Toronto Raptors re-sign centre Aaron Gray - by Eurobasket News

The Toronto Raptors re-signed centre Aaron Gray (7'0''-C-84, college: Pittsburgh) and added free-agent guard John Lucas III (5'11''-PG-82, college: Oklahoma St.) on Friday.

Gray averaged 3.9 points, with 5.7 rebounds and 16.6 minutes in 49 games with the Raptors last season.

The 27-year-old played for the New Orleans Hornets in 2010-11, averaging 3.1 points, 4.2 rebounds and 13 minutes.

The seven-foot, 270-pound Gray was a second-round selection of the Chicago Bulls in the 2007 NBA draft.

The 29-year-old Lucas has averaged five points, 1.4 assists and 11.1 minutes in 111 career regular-season games with the Houston Rockets and Chicago Bulls.

In seven career playoff outings, Lucas has averaged 6.1 points, 1.3 assists and 14.6 minutes.

Lucas had career bests in points (7.5), assists (2.2) and rebounds (1.6) in a career-high 49 games with Chicago last season.

The five-foot-11, 165-pound Lucas played overseas from 2007-10 in Italy, Spain and China after two seasons in the NBA with Houston.

Lucas, who played for the Rockets from 2005 to 2007, is the son of John Lucas, Jr., who was taken first overall by Houston in the 1976 NBA draft.

Courtesy of www.thestar.com


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  CHINA   


Scores, Standings, Schedule - by Arthur Volbert

Today's results:
Group B
Spain 97 China 81
Brazil 75 Australia 71
Russia 95 Great Britain 75

Group A
Nigeria 60 Tunisia 56
United States 98 France 71
Argentina 102 Lithuania 79

Standings:
Group B
Spain --------1 0 2
Russia -------1 0 2
Brazil -------1 0 2
China --------0 1 1
Australia ----0 1 1
Great Britain 0 1 1

Group A
United States 1 0 2
Argentina ----1 0 2
Nigeria ------1 0 2
Tunisia ------0 1 1
France -------0 1 1
Lithuania ----0 1 1

Tuesday's games:
Group B
China VS. Russia
Australia vs. Spain
Great Britain vs. Brazil

Group A
Lithuania vs. Nigeria
France vs. Argentina
United States vs. Tunisia


China Loses to Spain in Olympics - by Arthur Volbert

Jianlian Yi (212-PF-87) had 30 points and 12 rebounds but China lost to Spain 97-81. But Spain is likely the second-best team in the tournament and if China continues to play at this level it has an excellent chance of reaching the quarter-final round.

Spain led China 19-17 after one quarter and 53-41 at the half. It led 69-60 after three quarters. Wang Zhizhi had 15 points and 3 rebounds. Chen Jianghua played an excellent game, especially in the first half when Liu Wei was in foul trouble. He had 12 points, 5 assists and no turnovers in 30 minutes and looked like China's point guard of the future. Guo Ailun was the only Chinese player who did not play, Liu Wei had 9 points, 3 rebounds and 2 assists in 20 minutes. Wang Shipeng had 8 points and 3 assists. Sun Yue had 4 assists, 4 steals and 1 turnover but only scored 3 points on 1 of 9 shooting, His once-promising career has truly been derailed by playing against the inferior competition faced by independent Beijing Aoshen.

Pau Gasol had 21 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists for Spain. Serge Ibaka had 17 points, 5 rebounds and 3 blocks. Juan-Carlos Navarro had 14 points, 3 rebounds and 2 assists. Jose Caldaron had 12 points and 3 assists.

Competing in its preliminary group, China will be favored to defeat Great Britain though the home team will be striving mightily to win its game against China. China has a chance to defeat Russia, Brazil and Australia but could also lose all three of these games. A most hopeful outcome is that it defeats Great Britain and wins one of its games against Russia, Australia and Brazil. Even more hopefully it might win two of those three games. If it wins all three games, I'll be shocked.

Link to box score:
http://www.london2012.com/basketball/event/men/match=bkm400b02/index.html


Olympics 2012: Spain fire past China - by Eurobasket News

Spain - China 97:81

Spain recorded the first win at the Olympic Games tournament. They outgunned China in Group B opener for both teams. Pau Gasol (214-F/C-80) scored 21 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners.
Spain led by just two points after the starting quarter. They entered the second term 19:17 ahead. The European side exploded with 34 points in the second quarter. They established a comfortable 53:41 halftime lead. China got within 7 points on several occasions in the third term but Spain managed to post a 69:60 lead at the final break. Spain stretched the gap to double digits early in the final frame and cruised to the victory at the end. Serge Ibaka (208-C/F-89) accounted for 17 points, while Juan Carlos Navarro (192-G-80) posted 14 points in the win. Jianlian Yi (212-PF-87) answered with 30 points and 12 rebounds for China. Wang ZhiZhi (215-C-77) had 15 points in the loss.

Spain: Pau Gasol 21+11 boards, Serge Ibaka 17, Juan Carlos Navarro 14
China: Jianlian Yi 30+12 boards, Wang ZhiZhi 15


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  CROATIA   


Bojan Bogdanovic is out of Croatian national team! - by Dajana Karl

Bojan Bogdanovic (203-G/F-89) is out of Croatian national team! It is because of the rules violation. Head coach Jasmin Repesa (agency: World Sport Agency ) couldn't tolerate Bogdanovic's behavior so he decided to exclude him from the team. Goran Vrbanac will be joining the team on Wednesday as the replacement. Bogdanovic was averaging 13.6 pts, 1.8 ast, 0.5 st, 0.2 blk per game last season playing for Fener.Ulker and drafted by New Jersey Nets (now Brooklyn Nets) in 2011.


U16 European Championship: Spain clinch 7th place - by Eurobasket News

Spain U16 - Croatia U16 79:72

Spain recorded the victory on the final day of the U16 European Championship. They knocked down Croatia to claim the 7th place in the ladder. Marc Garcia (194-F-96) scored 21 points to lead the winners.
Spain and Croatia stayed close throughout the opening quarter. Croatia eked out a 22:20 lead after ten minutes. Spain cut the deficit to a single point at halftime 42:41. The Spaniards stiffened their defence in the third term. They pulled ahead to take a 55:52 lead at the final intermission. Spain grabbed an 8-point lead late in regulation and eventually sealed the victory. Carlos Martinez (198-F-96) netted 13 points, while Marc Bauza (205-C-96) had 10 points for the winners. Marko Arapovic (207-C/F-96) answered with 24 points for Croatia. Luka Bozic (188-PG-96) netted 13 points in the loss.

Spain U16: Marc Garcia 21, Carlos Martinez 13, Marc Bauza 10
Croatia U16: Marko Arapovic 24, Luka Bozic 13


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  CZECH REPUBLIC   


U16 European Championship: Slovenia topple Czech Republic - by Eurobasket News

Slovenia U16 - Czech Republic U16 78:66

Slovenia earned the victory on the final day of the U16 European Championship. They defeated Czech Republic but both teams would play in Division B next season. Matej Kavas (193-G-96) knocked down 17 points to lead the charge.
Czech Republic stunned Slovenia in the opening quarter. They went on a 22:9 run in the first ten minutes. Slovenia however picked up the slack in the second frame. They unloaded 25 points to level things up at 34. Slovenia pulled ahead in the third term and secured a 7-point lead at the final intermission. Slovenia fired 24 points in the final stanza and sealed the victory at the end. Aljaz Slutej (191-PG-96) knocked down 14 points, while Tilen Kodrin (202-SF-96) added 13 points for the winners. Matej Svoboda (200-PF-96) answered with 21 points for Czech Republic. David Skranc (196-C-96) had 13 points in the loss.

Slovenia U16: Matej Kavas 17, Aljaz Slutej 14, Tilen Kodrin 13
Czech Republic U16: Matej Svoboda 21, David Skranc 13


Czech Republic beat the East Coast All Stars in Tallinn - by Eurobasket News

Czech Republic- East Coast All Stars 108:86

Czech Republic beat the East Coast All Stars team from the United States in the start of Four Nations Cup in Tallinn. The European team won over the USA representative 108:86.
Czech Republic won the opening period 26:13 and added 21-19 in the second period. East Coast All Stars replied with 28-26 in the third period, but the European side finished the game with 33-26.
Jakub Houska (206-C-82) scored 16, while Petr Benda (203-F/C-82, agency: Court Side) and Vojtech Hruban (202-F-89) added 11 points. Kamil Svrdlik (206-F-86, college: Fair Dickinson), Jiri Welsch (201-F-80) and Lubos Barton (202-F/G-80, college: Valparaiso) each scored 10 points. Nick Faust (198-G-93) finished the game with 20 points in the losing effort. Quinn Cook (182-G-93) notched 17, while Juwan Staten (185-G) had 13.
In another game National Team of Georgia started the Four Nations Cup in Tallinn with a convincing 91:76 victory against Estonia. Viktor Sanikidze led the winners with 20 points and 11 rebounds, Georgi Tsintsadze and Jacob Pullen added 14 points.

Czech Republic: Jakub Houska 16, Vojtech Hruban 11, Petr Benda 11, Kamil Svrdlik 10, Jiri Welsch 10, Lubos Barton 10
East Coast All Stars: Nick Faust 20, Quinn Cook 17, Juwan Staten 13


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  DENMARK   


U16 European Championship: Denmark edged the hosts in Bucharest - by Eurobasket News

Denmark U16-Romania U16 91:67

Denmark edged the hosts in Bucharest to close the U16 European Championship campaign. The Danish side grabbed 91:67 victory over Romania to finish on the 13 the place. The hosts of the campaign meanwhile finished on the 14th position.
Denmark did not mind the support for the local team in Bucharest. They started with 25-16 and added 25-24 in the second frame. The second half also belonged to the Danish team. They won the third quarter 24-22 as Jacob Larsen (204-PF-97) made it 74:60. The guests also won the last stanza 17-5 for the final result.
Jacob Larsen erupted with 28 points and 12 rebounds, while Jakob Ravn (193-G-96) notched 16. Mads Hansen (194-G-96) delivered 13 points for the guests. Emanuel Cate (201-C-97) answered with 25 points and 14 rebounds in the losing case and Marius Ciotlaus (194-SF-96) chipped in with 11.

Denmark U16: Jacob Larsen 28+12 rebs, Jakob Ravn 16, Mads Hansen 13
Romania U16: Emanuel Cate 25+14 rebs, Marius Ciotlaus 11


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  DOMINICAN REPUBLIC   

Standings - District National

LNB Standings
North Division
 1. Metros 4-2 
 2. Indios SF 4-2 
 3. Huracanes 3-3 
 4. Reales 1-5 
South Division
 1. Caneros 5-1 
 2. Titanes 3-3 
 3. Cocolos 2-4 
 4. Leones SD 2-4 

Regular Season: Round 5

Jul. 27: Metros - Reales 93-90
Jul. 28: Caneros - Cocolos 93-83
Jul. 28: Indios SF - Huracanes 90-85
Jul. 27: Titanes - Leones SD 70-73
Jul. 29: Leones SD - Indios SF
Jul. 29: Reales - Caneros



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


Four Nations Cup: Georgia beats the hosts - by Janar

National Team of Georgia started the Four Nations Cup in Tallinn with a convincing 91:76 victory against Estonia. Viktor Sanikidze (203-F-86) led the winners with 20 points and 11 rebounds, Georgi Tsintsadze (192-G-86) and Jacob Pullen (182-PG-89, college: Kansas St.) added 14 points. Both Sanikidze and Tsintsadze starred in Tartu University/Rock four seasons ago but since then they have gone separate ways as Sanikidze has become one of the best players in Italian Serie A, but Tsintsadze still hasn't found the team his abilities deserve.

Estonia started well as Janar Talts (206-C-83) and Kristjan Kangur, team-mates from Serie A team Varese, combined 18 points in first quarter and the hosts led 38:33 with 14 minutes played. But Georgia made a 13:3 run to win the first half 46:41. Siim-Sander Vene (203-F-90, agency: Alti Sport) scored 10 points in 3rd quarter as the hosts were trailing only 56:58 with 27 minutes played but Georgia made a lethal 16:0 run and led by 18 with a quarter to play.

Janar Talts was the top scorer for Estonian team with 19 points and 7 rbs, Vene added 18 points and 7 rbs and national team newcomer Reinar Hallik (208-C-84) added 10 points. Kristjan Kangur was held to 8 points, making 2/11 from the field.

In another game, Czech Republic beat the East Coast All Stars team from the United States 106:86. Jakub Houska (206-C-82) scored 16, Petr Benda (203-F/C-82, agency: Court Side) and Vojtech Hruban (202-F-89) 11 points. Nick Faust (198-G-93) had 20 on the losing side.


Lots of stars take part in 4 Nations Cup - by Janar

Starting today, Tallinn hosts the "4 Nations Cup" in Saku Suurhall.

Besides the hosts, the national teams from Czech Republic and Georgia will take part as well as the East Coast All Stars from United States that includes players from NCAA I division teams.

The most famous names from the NT of Georgia are Tornike Shengelia (207-F-91) from Brooklyn Nets as well as former NBA draftee Viktor Sanikidze (203-F-86) and another top level players Nika Metreveli (212-C/F-91, agency: Interperformances), Giorgi Shermadini (216-C-89) and Manuchar Markoishvili (195-G-86). Shengelia will make his NBA debut next season, Sanikidze joins Euroleague powerhouse Siena Montepaschi Siena, Markoishvili plays for Bennet Cantu, Shermadini joins Maccabi Tel Aviv and Metreveli reached SerieA semifinals this spring, playing for Sassari. The team also includes two Americans - Jacob Pullen and Corey Fisher.

The Czechs will play without their biggest name Jan Vesely and another NBA draftee Tomas Satoransky, but even without them the team is full of famous names, starting with veterans Jiri Welsch (201-F-80), Lubos Barton (202-F/G-80, college: Valparaiso) and Petr Benda (203-F/C-82, agency: Court Side) plus young talents Ondrej Balvin (216-C-92), Tomas Hampl (215-C-88), David Jelinek (196-G-90) and Jakub Kudlacek (193-G-90).
Welsch who played 247 games in the NBA, will make his NT come-back after missing out the EuroBasket 2011 campaign. He plays for Charleroi. Another veteran Barton played for ACB teams Fuenlabrada and Badalona last seaon. Both Welsch and Barton represented their country in EuroBasket 1999, already!
The brightest players of Czechs new generation - Balvin, Hampl, Jelinek and Kudlacek play either in ACB, SerieA or Euroleague teams.

East Coast All Stars include former U17 world champion Quinn Cook (182-G-93) from Duke, Nick Faust (198-G-93) from Maryland, Brad Redford (182-G-90) from Xavier and Zach McCabe (200-F-91) from Iowa as the most interesting names.
Cook averaged 4.4 pts and 1.9 ast last season, Faust averaged 8.9 pts and 4.0 rbs as a freshman for Maryland, Redford reached NCAA Sweet 16 twice with Xavier and McCabe averaged 7.4 pts and 4.6 rbs for Iowa last season.

Estonian National Team has their best possible lineup at the home tournament led by Serie A players Kristjan Kangur (201-F-82) and Janar Talts (206-C-83), but also Siim-Sander Vene (203-F-90, agency: Alti Sport), Rain Veideman (192-G-91), Sten-Timmu Sokk (181-G-89), Tanel Sokk (184-G-85), Gregor Arbet (194-F/G-83) and Gert Dorbek (194-G-85) as probable main contributors.

Estonia will face Georgia in the opening day of the tournament. On Monday, the hosts will play against Czechs.
www.basket.ee will show live broadcast.


U16 European Championship: Estonia successfully finished the campaign - by Eurobasket News

Luxembourg U16-Estonia U16 73:102

Estonia successfully finished the campaign as they overcame Luxembourg in their last game of the U16 European Championship in Division B. Estonia clinched the 17th place after a comfortable 102:73 victory, while Luxembourg dropped at 18th.
Estonia took 28:22 after an offensive first period and added 26-18 in the second quarter. Moreover the second half also belonged to the Baltic State. Estonia won the third period 20-16 and finished the game with 28-17 in the last quarter. Laanisto gave his side three-digit number on the biard and he also scored the last points in the game.
Karl-Robin Jurjens (199-F-96) paced all the winners with 23 points, while Jaagup Russak (179-G-96) notched 22. Ken Lill (188-G-96) poured in 21 points and Marko Meimer (199-F-96, agency: FCM) delivered 10. Timothy Kauffmann (191-SF-96) answered with 24 points in the losing effort and Vic Heuschling (196-F-96) added 12. Oliver Vujakovic (192-F-96) poured in 10 points and Bill Fischer (195-C-96) chipped in with 8.

Luxembourg U16: Timothy Kauffmann 24, Vic Heuschling 12, Oliver Vujakovic 10 Bill Fischer 8
Estonia U16: Karl-Robin Jurjens 23, Jaagup Russak 22, Ken Lill 21, Marko Meimer 10


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


Sonny Weems moves to CSKA for the upcoming season - by Eurobasket News

Sonny Weems (198-G/F-86, college: Arkansas) moves to CSKA for 2012/2013 season. The American player agreed a 3-year deal and moves to Russia.
Recently Sonny Weems and Zalgiris agreed on terms of contract termination. The guard sustained a season-ending injury days last week and decided to return to the USA.
Sonny Weems joined the Kaunas team at the beginning of the season. He averaged 15.5 points, 5.0 rebounds and 1.3 assists per game in Euroleague. In VTB League Sonny Weems posted 10.3 points, 4.1 rebounds and 2.0 assists per appearance. The guard also delivered 9.0 points, 3.0 rebounds and 1.5 steals in Baltic League. In LKL his stats read 10.0 points, 4.1 rebounds, 1.4 steals and 1.8 assists. Sonny Weems helped Zalgiris win Lithuanian Cup title. Previously Sonny Weems played in the NBA for the Nuggets and the Raptors. He was also D-League champion together with the Colorado 14ers in 2009.


Union Olimpija shape up the roster - by Eurobasket News

Union Olimpija shape up the roster for the upcoming season. The team announced two-years contract with US point guard Dominic Waters (185-PG-86, college: Portland St.) and added Aron Baynes (208-C-86, college: Washington St.) and Teemu Rannikko (188-G-80) to their roster.
Aron Baynes moves from Ikaros Kallitheas (Greece-A1, starting five) where he spent the last season. In 23 games he averaged 13.6ppg, Reb-1 (8.7rpg), FGP: 50.9%, FT: 71.1%. Few hours ago Brazil won over Aron Baynes Australia in London in the opener of Group B at Olympics 2012. The Brazilian team outscored Australia 75:71 at the Basketball Arena. The player scored 10 points in a loss.
Teemu Rannikko will arrive from Italy. In 2011-2012 he played for Cimberio Varese (Italy-SerieA) and showed 7.4ppg, 1.5rpg, 3.0apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 53.5%, 3PT: 34.9%, FT: 85.0%.
Dominic Waters comes from Belgium's Belgacom Liege Basket. He averaged 12,3 points, 2,8 rebounds and 4,1 assists per game during last season. He was ranked first in assists per game in Belgium's first division.


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  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U16   

M-Standings - Group A

Standings
Group E
1. Italy5-0
2. Turkey3-2
3. Croatia3-2
4. Spain2-3
5. Ukraine1-4
6. Latvia1-4
Group F
1. Serbia4-1
2. France3-2
3. Germany3-2
4. Poland2-3
5. Lithuania2-3
6. Greece1-4
Group G (places 13-16)
1. Russia6-0
2. Slovenia3-3
3. Czech Rep.2-4
4. U.Kingdom1-5

Finals: Round 9

3-4 Place

Jul. 29: ITA - SRB 69-83

5-6 Place

Jul. 29: POL - GER 59-74

7-8 Place

Jul. 29: ESP - CRO 79-72

FINAL

Jul. 29: FRA - TUR 61-66

G

Jul. 29: RUS - ENG 72-69 OT
Jul. 29: CZE - SLO 66-78


Turkey are new champions! - by Eurobasket News

FINAL
France - Turkey 61-66
Turkey are the new U16 European champions. They overcame France in the title game tonight in Vilnius. Mehmet Alemdaroglu (205-F-96) posted 14 points and 11 rebounds to lead the winners. Turkey set the tone early in the championship game. They went on a 9:2 run at the start of the game. Turkey maintained the lead and posted a 19:16 lead at the first break. The margin grew at 8-point mark midway through the second term. Turkey ensured a 37:33 halftime lead. Turkey opened a double-digit lead in the third term. They posted a 53:41 lead late in the quarter. France trimmed the distance to a single point 59:60 with just over three minutes remaining in regulation. Ediz Oktay (192-G-96) and Ulubay gave some breathing room for Turkey. Smock kept France hopeful but two free throws from Ediz Oktay sealed the victory for Turkey. Akif Guven (206-C-96) posted 12 points, while Ediz Oktay added 10 points for the winners. Lucas Dussoulier (196-PG-96) and Cyrille Eliezer-Vanerot (194-F-96) answered with 11 points each for France.

3-4 Place
Italy - Serbia 69-83
Serbia stepped onto the pedestal at U16 European Championship. They defeated Italy to claim the Bronze medals. Serbia started the game strongly. They poured in 24 points in the opening quarter to take a 9-point lead. Serbia boosted the lead in the second quarter. They secured a 43:28 halftime lead. Serbia extended the lead in the third term. They secured a 61:44 lead at the final intermission. Italy fired 25 points in the final period but Serbia survived the challenge and clinched a comfortable win at the end. Ilija Dokovic (185-G-96) posted 15 points, while Nikola Pavlovic (199-PF-96) added 12 points for the winners. Riccardo Rossato (189-PG-96) answered with 18 points for Italy. Federico Mussini and Daniel Donzelli had 13 points each in the loss.

5-6 Place
Poland - Germany 59-74
German U16 National Team earned the fifth place at the European Championship in Latvia and Lithuania. They knocked down Poland on the final day of action. Niklas Kiel (202-SF-97) scored 21 points and grabbed 13 boards to lead the charge. Germany unloaded 29 points in the opening quarter to clear off. They secured an 18-point lead at the first break. Germany stretched the gap in the second quarter. They established a 51:26 halftime lead. Poland slowed their opponents down in the third term. They held Germany to 11 points to cut the deficit at 20-point mark. Poland got within 15 in the fourth frame but could not threaten the margin and lost at the end. Andreas Obst (190-SG-96) had 13 points, while Lars Kamp added 11 points for the winners. Artur Wlodarczyk (174-PG-96) answered with 21 points for Poland. Michal Marek netted 9 points in the loss.

7-8 Place
Spain - Croatia 79-72
Spain recorded the victory on the final day of the U16 European Championship. They knocked down Croatia to claim the 7th place in the ladder. Marc Garcia (194-F-96) scored 21 points to lead the winners. Spain and Croatia stayed close throughout the opening quarter. Croatia eked out a 22:20 lead after ten minutes. Spain cut the deficit to a single point at halftime 42:41. The Spaniards stiffened their defence in the third term. They pulled ahead to take a 55:52 lead at the final intermission. Spain grabbed an 8-point lead late in regulation and eventually sealed the victory. Carlos Martinez (198-F-96) netted 13 points, while Marc Bauza had 10 points for the winners. Marko Arapovic (207-C/F-96) answered with 24 points for Croatia. Luka Bozic netted 13 points in the loss.
Group G
Czech Republic - Slovenia 66-78
Slovenia earned the victory on the final day of the U16 European Championship. They defeated Czech Republic but both teams would play in Division B next season. Matej Kavas (193-G-96) knocked down 17 points to lead the charge. Czech Republic stunned Slovenia in the opening quarter. They went on a 22:9 run in the first ten minutes. Slovenia however picked up the slack in the second frame. They unloaded 25 points to level things up at 34. Slovenia pulled ahead in the third term and secured a 7-point lead at the final intermission. Slovenia fired 24 points in the final stanza and sealed the victory at the end. Aljaz Slutej (191-PG-96) knocked down 14 points, while Tilen Kodrin added 13 points for the winners. Matej Svoboda (200-PF-96) answered with 21 points for Czech Republic. David Skranc had 13 points in the loss.

Russia - United Kingdom 72-69 OT
Russia capped their U16 European Championship campaign with victory. They knocked down England to seal the top spot in classification round Group G. Ilya Karpenkov (200-C-97) scored 20 points and grabbed 15 rebounds for Russia. Russia led by a single point 16:15 after ten minutes. England stole the lead in the second period. They eked out a 27:26 halftime lead. Russia erased the deficit and levelled things up at 42 at the third break. Joseph Swindells (191-SF-96) and Ikponmwosa Oghide put England in front 62:61 with 47 seconds remaining in regulation. But Alexander Gavrilov hit a free throw and sent the game into overtime. Ilya Karpenkov and Alexander Gavrilov then proved the difference late in the extra period hitting four points and sealing the victory for Russia. Aleksandr Zuev (193-PG-96) accounted for 15 points, while Pavel Afanasev netted 11 points for the winners. Joseph Swindells responded with 17 points for England. Ikponmwosa Oghide had 16 points in the loss.


Monaco celebrate title in Gibraltar - by Eurobasket News

Final
Monaco U16 - Scotland U16 61:53
Monaco claimed the crown at the U16 European Championship in Division C. They held off Scotland in the title game in Gibraltar tonight. Alessandro Generale (185-C-96) scored 25 points and grabbed 11 rebounds to pace the winners.
Scotland led by a single point at the first break 11:10. Monaco turned things around in the second quarter. They posted a 29:19 halftime lead. The teams traded baskets throughout the third quarter. Monaco managed to ensure a 10-point lead at the final intermission. Scotland got within a single point midway through the final frame but Alessandro Generale and Daniel Pieper (185-F-96) helped Monaco regain the lead. They never looked back afterwards and cruised to the victory at the end. Daniel Pieper nailed 16 points and grabbed 13 boards for Monaco. Pierrick Motillon (177-PG-97) and Marechal added 7 points each for the winners. Gregor Gray (193-G/F-96) answered with 16 points and 11 rebounds for Scotland. Rian Neill (188-PF-96) netted 12 points in the loss.

Monaco U16: Alessandro Generale 25+11 boards, Daniel Pieper 16+13 boards, Pierrick Motillon 7, Marachal 7
Scotland U16: Gregor Gray 16+11 boards, Rian Neill 12

3rd-4th Place
Gibraltar U16 - San Marino U16 50:45
Gibraltar clinched the Bronze medals at U16 European Championship in Division C. They overcame San Marino on the final day of the tourney. Thomas Yome (178-G/F-96) stepped up with 14 points and 10 rebounds to lead the hosts.
Gibraltar and San Marino traded baskets throughout the opening quarter. The scoreboard read 14:14 after ten minutes. San Marino pulled ahead in the second quarter. They established a 30:21 halftime lead. Gibraltar took over in the third term. The home team unloaded 24 points in the third term and secured a 6-point lead at the final intermission. Gibraltar scored just 5 points in the final quarter but San Marino answered with just six and had to surrender at the end. Jake Haefner (185-G/F-97) notched 11 points and 9 rebounds, while Matthew Martinez (187-C-96) had 8 points for the winners. Igor Biordi (200-C-96) answered with 17 points and 24 boards for San Marino. Lucas Barrena (178-PG-96) netted 12 points and collected 10 rebounds in the loss.

Gibraltar U16: Thomas Yome 14+10 boards, Jake Haefner 11, Matthew Martinez 8
San Marino U16: Igor Biordi 17+24 boards, Lucas Barrena 12+10 boards

5th-7th Place
Andorra U16 - Malta U16 76:67
Andorra posted the victory on the final day of U16 European Championship in Division C. They knocked down Malta to claim the fifth overall position. Sergi Jordana (178-G-96) came up with 21 points to lead the charge.
Malta led by as many as six points at the first intermission 20:14. Andorra took over in the second quarter. They exploded with a 25:7 rally to secure a 39:27 halftime advantage. Malta cut the distance in the third term. They narrowed the deficit at 6-point mark at the final intermission. But Andorra scored 20 points in the fourth period and escaped with the victory at the end. Jimenez Martinez had 18 points and 10 rebounds for Andorra. Blanca Salinas netted 9 points in the winning case. Zane Micallef (170-PG-96) answered with 18 points for Malta. Kieron Caruana (178-F/C-97) had 12 points and 11 rebounds in the loss.

Andorra U16: Sergi Jordana 21, Sergi Jimenez 18+10 boards, Christian Salinas (188-G) 9
Malta U16: Zane Micallef 18, Kieron Caruana 12+11 boards


Belgium clinch Division B title - by Eurobasket News

FINAL
Montenegro - Belgium 46-56
Belgium clinch Division B title at the U16 European Championship. The team overcame Montenegro 56:46 in the Final to seal the important victory in Bucharest. Both teams advanced to Division A for the next year. Although both teams advanced to the top division, their thoughts were still about the gold medals. Belgium started with 25:8 in the opening period and Kanda-Kanyinda scored for 19:10 early in the second. Montenegro meanwhile was far to give up and closed the half with 6-0 run that gave them 28:27 halftime advantage. Later on the teams exchanged the lead several times until Rayan Kayembe-Milongo (96) closed the third period at 40:36. He also scored five points in a row midway through the last quarter for 49:41. His free throws were also last in the game for the trophy in Bucharest. Rayan Kayembe-Milongo top-scored for the title with 19 points and Sami Demirtas (189-G-96) netted 15. Dubois and Kohajda followed them with 6 points apiece. Mihailo Radunovic (199-SF-96) and Dozic finished the night with 9 points in the losing effort.
3rd place
Sweden - Hungary 79-55
Sweden catches up the last train to Division A at the U16 European Championship. The Scandinavian team overcame Hungary 79:55 in the game for the third place that gave the last spot in the top division the next year. Sweden did not waste time and started with 29-16 in the first period. They produced 19-16 in the second frame for 48:32 at the halftime as Lightner closed the half. Moreover Sweden needed 13-11 in the third period for a nigger lead. They finished the game with 18-12 in the last stanza for the final victory. Ludvig Hakanson (190-PG-96) paced all the winners with 23 points and 11 assists, while Johansson notched 22. Andreas Von Uthmann (196-F-96) followed them with 9 points. Hodi ended up with 12 points in defeat and Gyorgy Goloman (204-F/C-96) scored 11. Sweden together with Montenegro and Belgium advanced to Division A.

5-6 places
Israel - Bosnia 65-71
Bosnia and Herzegovina finished 5th in Romania at the U16 European Championship in Division B. The team won over Israel 71:65 in their last game. The latter meanwhile ended up on the 6th position. It was a game of two different halves. At first Israel won the first period 19-17 and added 24-12 in the second frame. It seemed that 43:29 lead at the halftime was enough for Israel but Bosnia and Herzegovina did not give up. djorde Beronja (199-C-96) reduced to 52:49 at the end of the third period and Djorde Aleksic (184-PG-97) tied the game at 61:61 with 3 minutes to go. Bosnia finished the game with 10-4 burst and won the game. Ivo Garic (192-PG-96) top-scored for the winners with 15 points and Sandro Gacic (196-SG-96) nailed 11. Lazic collected 10 points and 10 rebounds in the winning effort. Tamir Blatt (178-PG-97) finished the game with 19 points and Huber scored 13 in defeat. Tessone poured in 11, whilst Yevgeni Holodov (178-PG-96) added 7.

7-8 places
Portugal - FYR Macedonia 56-70
Nikolov paces F.Y.R. of Macedonia to the 7th place at the U16 European Championship in Division B. he poured in 32 points as F.Y.R. of Macedonia outscored Portugal 70:56 in their last game. Portugal meanwhile finished on the 8th spot. F.Y.R. of Macedonia opened the game with 8-0 run and won the first period 23:15. Bakoch increased the lead to 10 points, while Cvetkovski scored for 30:20. Portugal managed to win the second frame as Mendes cut it to 6 points at the halftime. Mendes also reduced to 36:38 in the middle of the third period, but F.Y.R. of Macedonia closed a quarter with 13-2 burst. They added narrow 19-18 in the last stanza to seal the victory. Andrej Magdevski (190-G-96) collected 14 points and 10 rebounds, while Cvetkovski nailed 8. Sergio da Silva (191-SG-96) answered with 10 points in defeat, whilst Araujo, Francisco Amiel (186-PG-96) and Camara had 9 each.

9-10 places
Belarus - Holland 63-71
Netherlands finished 9th in Bucharest at the U16 European Championship in Division B. The Dutch side overcame Belarus 71:63 in the last game for both teams at the tournament. The latter meanwhile finished on the 10th position. Both teams tried to finish the tournament on the higher place and showed their best in the last game. Belarus won the opening period 22-15, but failed in the rest of the quarters. Netherlands replied with 21-17 in the second frame and Tom de Haas (183-PG-96) closed the half at 39:36. Yannick Franke (185-G-96) nailed three midway through the third period to give his side 47:46 advantage and he also was the last to score in the period for 53:46 lead. Netherlands added 18-14 in the last stanza to seal a necessary win. Yannick Franke top-scored for the winners with 26 points and Hahn collected 10 points and 12 rebounds. Maksim Salash (203-C-96) replied with 27 points and 12 rebounds, while Rubinshteyn notched 13. Uladzislau Kandybovic (190-G-96) delivered 12 and Repeka added 6.

11-12 places
Georgia - Finland 48-89
Finland destroy Georgia for the higher place at the U16 European Championship in Division B. Finland won over Georgia 89:48 in the game for the 13-14 places. Finland prepared better for the game and as a result they erupted with 26:8 in the first period. The Nordic side did not slow down and added 17-14 the second frame. Moreover Finland allowed the opponents to score 13 points in the third and the last quarters. They, meanwhile produced 22 and 24 respectively for the final result. Samuli Nieminen (200-F-96) and Juho-Matti Henttonen (195-C-96) nailed three at the very end to give their side 41-point victory. Juho-Matti Henttonen led the way with 17 points and Eerikinharju netted 12. Fiifi Aidoo (175-PG-96) poured in 10 points in a winning effort. Luka Zakradze (187-PG-96) ended up with 9 points in defeat, while Levan Maskhulia (196-SF-96) and Gogaladze had 7 each.

13-14 places
Denmark - Romania 91-67
Denmark edged the hosts in Bucharest to close the U16 European Championship campaign. The Danish side grabbed 91:67 victory over Romania to finish on the 13 the place. The hosts of the campaign meanwhile finished on the 14th position. Denmark did not mind the support for the local team in Bucharest. They started with 25-16 and added 25-24 in the second frame. The second half also belonged to the Danish team. They won the third quarter 24-22 as Jacob Larsen (204-PF-97) made it 74:60. The guests also won the last stanza 17-5 for the final result. Jacob Larsen erupted with 28 points and 12 rebounds, while Ravn notched 16. Hansen delivered 13 points for the guests. Emanuel Cate (201-C-97) answered with 25 points and 14 rebounds in the losing case and Marius Ciotlaus (194-SF-96) chipped in with 11.

15-16 places
Switzerland - Bulgaria 62-63
Bulgaria grab the win over Switzerland at the U16 European Championship in Division B. Even 35 points from Luka Mandic (195-F-96) were not enough for the Swiss side as they lost to the Bulgarian side 62:63. The latter finished on the 15th place in Bucharest. It was a real thriller in the court and kept the spectators alive until the last seconds. At first Switzerland started with 19-12, but could not win the half. Bulgaria replied with 23-12 in the second frame and took 35:31 lead at the hlaftime after Alex Ouandie (193-G-96)'s shot. Mathieu Giroud (185-SF-96) later gave Switzerland 41:40 lead, while Alex Ouandie closed the frame at 48:47. The squads exchanged the lead several more times in the fourth quarter and then Nedkov scored for 61:61. Nedkov meanwhile scored the last basket for Bulgaria and brought a 1-point win. Iliev, Alex Ouandie, Kraev and Nedkov top-scored for the winners with 10 points each. Luka Mandic paced all the Swiss player with 35 points and 12 rebounds. Mathieu Giroud nailed 8, while Cafisi delivered 7 points.

17-18 places
Luxembourg - Estonia 73-102
Estonia successfully finished the campaign as they overcame Luxembourg in their last game of the U16 European Championship in Division B. Estonia clinched the 17th place after a comfortable 102:73 victory, while Luxembourg dropped at 18th. Estonia took 28:22 after an offensive first period and added 26-18 in the second quarter. Moreover the second half also belonged to the Baltic State. Estonia won the third period 20-16 and finished the game with 28-17 in the last quarter. Mirko Laanisto (197-SF-96) gave his side three-digit number on the biard and he also scored the last points in the game. Karl-Robin Jurjens (199-F-96) paced all the winners with 23 points, while Russak notched 22. Lill poured in 21 points and Meimer delivered 10. Timothy Kauffmann (191-SF-96) answered with 24 points in the losing effort and Vic Heuschling (196-F-96) added 12. Vujakovic poured in 10 points and Fischer chipped in with 8.

19-20 places
Slovakia - Norway 84-45
Slovak Republic and Norway open the last day at the U16 European Championship in Division B. Slovak Republic easily rolled over the opponent 84:45 to clinch the 19th place, while Norway ended up on the 20th position. Slovak Republic controlled the entire game and started with 26-13 after the first period. They added 24-12 in the second frame for 50:25 halftime advantage. Moreover the second half also belonged to the Slovakian side. They won the third period 16-8 and finished the game with 18-12 in the last stanza. Jakub Meress (200-PF-96) paced all the winners with 21 points and 11 rebounds, while Rozanek netted 19. Norbert Janicek (206-C-96) and Abrham followed them with 10 points each. Berg delivered 16 points and Frey posted 8.


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  FINLAND   


U16 European Championship: Finland destroy Georgia for the higher place - by Eurobasket News

Georgia U16-Finland U16 48:89

Finland destroy Georgia for the higher place at the U16 European Championship in Division B. Finland won over Georgia 89:48 in the game for the 13-14 places.
Finland prepared better for the game and as a result they erupted with 26:8 in the first period. The Nordic side did not slow down and added 17-14 the second frame. Moreover Finland allowed the opponents to score 13 points in the third and the last quarters. They, meanwhile produced 22 and 24 respectively for the final result. Nieminen and Juho-Matti Henttonen (195-C-96) nailed three at the very end to give their side 41-point victory.
Juho-Matti Henttonen led the way with 17 points and Elias Eerikinharju (185-G-96) netted 12. Fiifi Aidoo (175-PG-96) poured in 10 points in a winning effort. Luka Zakradze (187-PG-96) ended up with 9 points in defeat, while Levan Maskhulia (196-SF-96) and Levan Gogaladze (191-PG-97) had 7 each.

Georgia U16: Luka Zakradze 9, Levan Maskhulia 7, Levan Gogaladze 7
Finland U16: Juho-Matti Henttonen 17, Elias Eerikinharju 12, Fiifi Aidoo 10


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


U16 European Championship: Turkey beat France to clinch the title - by Eurobasket News

Turkey U16 - France U16 66:61

Turkey are the new U16 European champions. They overcame France in the title game tonight in Vilnius. Mehmet Alemdaroglu (205-F-96) posted 14 points and 11 rebounds to lead the winners.
Turkey set the tone early in the championship game. They went on a 9:2 run at the start of the game. Turkey maintained the lead and posted a 19:16 lead at the first break. The margin grew at 8-point mark midway through the second term. Turkey ensured a 37:33 halftime lead. Turkey opened a double-digit lead in the third term. They posted a 53:41 lead late in the quarter. France trimmed the distance to a single point 59:60 with just over three minutes remaining in regulation. Ediz Oktay (192-G-96) and Ulubay gave some breathing room for Turkey. Smock kept France hopeful but two free throws from Ediz Oktay sealed the victory for Turkey. Akif Guven (206-C-96) posted 12 points, while Ediz Oktay added 10 points for the winners. Lucas Dussoulier (196-PG-96) and Cyrille Eliezer-Vanerot (194-F-96) answered with 11 points each for France.

Turkey U16: Mehmet Alemdaroglu 14+11 boards, Akif Guven 12, Ediz Oktay 10
France U16: Lucas Dussoulier 11, Cyrille Eliezer-Vanerot 11


Olympics 2012: USA deny France in opener - by Eurobasket News

USA - France 98:71

USA claimed the opening win at the Olympic Games basketball tournament. They knocked down France in London. Kevin Durant (6'9''-SF-88, college: Texas) scored 22 points and grabbed 9 rebounds to pace the winners.
USA and France stayed close throughout the opening frame. The North American side managed a one-point lead at the first break 22:21. Team USA shifted the gear in the second quarter. They ignited an 11:0 run to clear off. USA capped the first half with four points in a row to take a 52:36 halftime lead. Chandler gave USA a 60:38 lead early in the third term. They maintained it posting a 78:51 cushion heading into the fourth stanza. Kevin Durant and Kevin Love (6'10''-PF-88, college: UCLA) ensured an 82:53 lead early in the final period and Team USA cruised to the victory from there on. Kevin Love posted 14 points, while Kobe Bryant (6'6''-SG-78) finished with 10 points for Team USA. Ali Traore (6'10''-PF-85, agency: Beo Basket, college: S.Idaho JC) answered with 12 points for France. Tony Parker (6'2''-PG-82) had 10 points in the loss.

USA: Kevin Durant 22, Kevin Love 14, Kobe Bryant 10
France: Ali Traore 12, Tony Parker 10


William Herve signs with Lyonnais Basket - by Eurobasket News

William Herve (200-SF-90) signs with Lyonnais Basket for 2012/2013 season. The French Small Forward moves from Quimper UJAP.
In 2007-2008 he appeared for Entente Orleans 45 (ProA) but played mostly for U21 team. In 2008-2009 played 6 games for Orleans and averaged 0.3ppg. In 2009-2010 he debuted in Euroleague and after 3 games showed 2.3ppg, 1.3apg. In French League after 8 games his stats read 0.6ppg.
In 2010-2011 for Entente Orleans 45 (ProA, starting five) averaged 2.7ppg in EuroChallenge and in French League had 1.0ppg, 1.0rpg
In 2011-2012 moved to Quimper UJAP (ProB) and after 21 games showed 1.4ppg, 1.2rpg.
William Herve is also a member of the French U20 National Team -10. He became French La Semaine des As Cup Finalist and French Cup Winner -10.


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  FYR MACEDONIA   


U16 European Championship: Nikolov paces F.Y.R. of Macedonia to the 7th place - by Eurobasket News

Portugal U16- F.Y.R. of Macedonia U16 56:70

Kristijan Nikolov (185-G-96) paces F.Y.R. of Macedonia to the 7th place at the U16 European Championship in Division B. he poured in 32 points as F.Y.R. of Macedonia outscored Portugal 70:56 in their last game. Portugal meanwhile finished on the 8th spot.
F.Y.R. of Macedonia opened the game with 8-0 run and won the first period 23:15. Bakoch increased the lead to 10 points, while Andrej Cvetkovski (185-G-96) scored for 30:20. Portugal managed to win the second frame as Mendes cut it to 6 points at the halftime. Mendes also reduced to 36:38 in the middle of the third period, but F.Y.R. of Macedonia closed a quarter with 13-2 burst. They added narrow 19-18 in the last stanza to seal the victory.
Andrej Magdevski (190-G-96) collected 14 points and 10 rebounds, while Andrej Cvetkovski nailed 8. Sergio da Silva (191-SG-96) answered with 10 points in defeat, whilst Diogo Araujo (189-SG-97), Francisco Amiel (186-PG-96) and Luis Camara (194-SF-96) had 9 each.

Portugal U16: Sergio da Silva 10, Diogo Araujo 9, Francisco Amiel 9, Luis Camara 9
F.Y.R. of Macedonia U16: Kristijan Nikolov 32, Andrej Magdevski 14+10 rebs, Andrej Cvetkovski 8


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


U16 European Championship: Finland destroy Georgia for the higher place - by Eurobasket News

Georgia U16-Finland U16 48:89

Finland destroy Georgia for the higher place at the U16 European Championship in Division B. Finland won over Georgia 89:48 in the game for the 13-14 places.
Finland prepared better for the game and as a result they erupted with 26:8 in the first period. The Nordic side did not slow down and added 17-14 the second frame. Moreover Finland allowed the opponents to score 13 points in the third and the last quarters. They, meanwhile produced 22 and 24 respectively for the final result. Nieminen and Juho-Matti Henttonen (195-C-96) nailed three at the very end to give their side 41-point victory.
Juho-Matti Henttonen led the way with 17 points and Elias Eerikinharju (185-G-96) netted 12. Fiifi Aidoo (175-PG-96) poured in 10 points in a winning effort. Luka Zakradze (187-PG-96) ended up with 9 points in defeat, while Levan Maskhulia (196-SF-96) and Levan Gogaladze (191-PG-97) had 7 each.

Georgia U16: Luka Zakradze 9, Levan Maskhulia 7, Levan Gogaladze 7
Finland U16: Juho-Matti Henttonen 17, Elias Eerikinharju 12, Fiifi Aidoo 10


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


Ekene Ibekwe (Brandon Hunter Is A Lot Funnier Than People Think) - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Ekenechukwu Ibekwe (210-F-85, college: Maryland) is a 27 year old 206cm forward from Los Angeles that has the Nigerian and American citizenship. He is a long, lean dynamic post player with unlimited athletic potential, a talented shooter for his size who can take the ball to the basket and score in the post and a high-flying finisher and shot blocker. He played at Maryland from 2003-2007 winning the ACC tournament in 2004. He turned professional in 2007 and played for Gilboa/Afula/Migdal Haemek (Israel-Premier League), left in Feb.'08: 11games: 11.3 ppg, 5.3 rpg, 2Pts 61.1%, FGP 77%, next month moved to Besanon Basket Comt Doubs (France-ProB, starting five): 8 games: 10.9ppg, 6.5rpg, 1.4spg, Blocks-2 (1.6bpg), 2FGP: 50%, FT: 69.7%. In 2008-2009, he played for Mutlu Aku Selcuk Universitesi Konya (Turkey-TBL, starting five): 28 games: 18.6ppg, 8.3rpg, 1.2apg, 1.8spg, Blocks-5 (1.8bpg), FGP: 60.6%, 3PT: 38.7%, FT: 57.0%2009: In May signed at Gigantes de Carolina (Puerto Rico-BSN): 9 games: 10.9ppg, 6.8rpg, 1.0apg, 2.3spg, 2.2bpg, FGP: 53.2%, 3PT: 41.2%, FT: 40.7%. In 2009-2010, he played for Kepez Bld Antalya (Turkey-TBL) in Jan.'10 signed at Genc Banvitliler (Turkey-TB2L, starting five): 10 games: 21.2ppg, 10.6rpg, 1.2apg, 2.2spg, 2.1bpg, FGP: 58.8%, 3PT: 39.1%, FT: 59.2%. After a short stint with the Artland Dragons in the 2010-2011 season, he came to BBC Bayreuth playing 49 Beko BBL games. Last season, he averaged 11,6ppg and 5,6rpg. He played at the World Championships in Japan -06: 6 games: 8.7ppg, 6.7rpg, 1.3bpg, 2FGP: 50.0%, FT: 33.3% . He spoke to eurobasket about basketball at the start of the summer.

A month after you finished the season, how much did you have a basketball in your hands?

Every day. I took a few days off, but other than that, I have been working out and getting ready for the next adventure.

What was the first thing that you did when you got off the plane in Los Angeles?


I went home and gave my mom a hug.

American players usually like to go eat somewhere when they return home. Where was the first place that you went to eat?


Roscos chicken and waffle a famous place here in Los Angeles.

You finished your second season with BBC Bayreuth. The club finished with a 12-22 record. What was your season summary?

It was a tough season for us, but it was the best record the team has had in a long time. The season could have been better, but we had many injuries and I am happy that I was able to play for the beautiful city of Bayreuth.

After losing the first four games, the team replaced Andreas Wagner with Marco Van Den Berg. Why was the team able to play better?


He was a new coach and there were two different styles. I think that his style shock up opponents as they didnt know what to adjust and it was harder for them to adjust to the new style.

After the big win at home against Alba Berlin, the team finished 4-12. Why did the team end the season on this note?


Thats basketball. We had tough injuries. We always fought hard and just tried to make the best of the situation. Our goal was always to play as good as we could and just be aggressive. Getting Danny Gibson was very important for jump setting our offense.

What do you remember the most about the spectacular win at home against Bremerhaven?

I dont really remember that much, except that it was exciting and our fans were as loud as always.


Who was the most improved player on the team?

I saw the most improvement with German Stefan Schmidt. It was too bad that he went down with a shoulder injury at the end of the season.

How satisfied were you with your season of 11,6ppg, 5,6rpg and 22 times scoring in double figures?

I wasnt as satisfied. One can always play better. I just tried to play as best as I could and do my role.

How did Brandon Hunter make you laugh?

People think he is serious, but he is a lot funnier than people think. It was good having an experienced player like him on the team. He has so much experience having played in the NBA, and Eurocup and I learned a lot from him. He was like a teacher when a coach wasnt there.

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

People see me as a defensive presence and guy that can block shots. However my low post game and outside shooting have gotten better. I just want to continue to work hard and become the complete player that I want to become.

What is your favorite place in Bayreuth?

Just being in my living room and playing video games.

What was your childhood like?

I grew up in Los Angeles. I played a lot of basketball, baseball and football. I had a lot of fun.

Who were your basketball idols as a kid?

My favorite player was Magic Johnson. As I got older, I liked Kobe bryant and Kevin Garnett.


Why did you choose to go to Maryland (NCAA)?

I always liked the ACC and their style. I just wanted to experience playing against schools like Duke and North Carolina. The ACC was the best conference at the time.

How present was the legacy of Len Bias at Maryland?


Everybody knew about Len Bias there.

What was your nicest memory at Maryland?

Winning the ACC tournament against Duke in OT.

Who won a one on one game in practice, you or NBA draft pick James Gist?

We didnt really play a lot of one on one. If we did, there would be a lot of dunks. It would be a very physical game and we wouldnt allow any dunks actually. He would try to set fights, but he is a good friend of mine.

Do you like the basketball nomad life?

I just will go there where a team wants me and where I fit in best.

What is your summer schedule?

I will play summer league with the Portland Trailblazers and play with the Nigerian national team in August to prepare for the Summer Olympics.

You have played in Israel, Turkey and Germany. In what country would you like to play in where you havent played yet?

I had fun in all places, but I felt most comfortable in Germany.

What do you remember most from the 2006 World Championships in Japan?


It was a great experience playing against so much top competition and I was so young at the time just 21 and still at Maryland. I want to thank God for this opportunity. The fans were very supportive.

Who was the best player that you played against at the World Championships in 2006?

Dirk Nowitzki. Germany beat us with a buzzer beater.

How does a work out day look like in the summer?

I get up at 8:00am and do drill work in the gym. Then I go and get something to eat. In my second work out, I do court work and weight lifting. I play pick up games against guys like Dorell Wright, Trevor Ariza and Bobby Brown.

What do you still need to improve on your game?

I can improve on all parts wit my shooting range, ball handling and court awareness.

What were the most free throws that you have made in a row without missing?

30.

What was your most crazy shot that you made in a game?

I made a half court shot last season, but it didnt count.

What was the last DVD that you?


The Dictator.

Thanks for the chat Ekene


Tom Doll And Andre Schroeder To Play For ETB SW Essen - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

German Regionaliga team ETB SW Essen continue to plan for the start of the new season which starts September 15th as they have named Tom Doll (182-G-83) and Andre Schroeder as players joining the team. Both guys have played together in the past in Essen and now will be united again. Andre Schroeder is a 30 year old that has decided to take a step back on account of his job and family to play in the Regionaliga. "I am as fit as ever and the hard intensity of the training is good for me. I am happy to be able to give my experience to the young talented players", added Andre Schroeder. "It is great that despite the time constraint, that Andre gives everything and is fire and flame for his team. He is a better than average shooter for the Regionaliga and will play an importnat role for us", stated ETB SW Essen head coach Thomas Schnell. Tom Doll is a very experiencd basketball player with much second German Bundesliga experience. He is a 182cm guard and last season played for the Bochum Astro Stars (Regionalliga) playing 23 games: 7.7ppg, FGP: 48.3%, 3Pts: 37.8%, FT: 78.9%. "We never lost Tom out of our eyes even when he played in Schwelm and Bochum. Nice that he is returning. He played in the ETB youth program and played in the first team. He is very respected with his dangerous three pointer", added Thomas Schnell. Doll started his basketball career with ETB SW Essen (2Bundesliga) and played there until 2009. He then played for : SG Schwelmer Baskets from 2009-2011. THe ETB is always my team. I have had success here as a player and youth coach. We have potential to stay in league and will do everything to be an importnat part of it", warned Tom Doll.

Source: ETB SW Essen


U16 European Championship: Germany defeat Poland to clinch 5th place - by Eurobasket News

Germany U16 - Poland U16 74:59

German U16 National Team earned the fifth place at the European Championship in Latvia and Lithuania. They knocked down Poland on the final day of action. Niklas Kiel (202-SF-97) scored 21 points and grabbed 13 boards to lead the charge.
Germany unloaded 29 points in the opening quarter to clear off. They secured an 18-point lead at the first break. Germany stretched the gap in the second quarter. They established a 51:26 halftime lead. Poland slowed their opponents down in the third term. They held Germany to 11 points to cut the deficit at 20-point mark. Poland got within 15 in the fourth frame but could not threaten the margin and lost at the end. Andreas Obst (190-SG-96) had 13 points, while Lars Kamp (186-G-96) added 11 points for the winners. Artur Wlodarczyk (174-PG-96) answered with 21 points for Poland. Michal Marek (204-C-96) netted 9 points in the loss.

Germany U16: Niklas Kiel 21+13 boards, Andreas Obst 13, Lars Kamp 11
Poland U16: Artur Wlodarczyk 21, Michal Marek 9


David Rotim joins MTV Stuttgart - by Moritz Korff

David Rotim (197-F-85) will continue his basketball career at MTV Stuttgart, the Regionalliga team announced. Rotim grew up in the city of Stuttgart and received his basketball education at BSG Ludwigsburg. In 2005 he joined the Bremen Roosters, followed by a three-year stint at FC Bayern Muenchen and two years with the Giants Noerdlingen. Last season the 27-year-old forward averaged 9.2 points, 3.7 rebounds and 2.1 assists per contest in the 2. Bundesliga Pro B.


Israel defeat Germany in Oberwart - by Eurobasket News

Israel - Germany 96:82

Israel recorded victory on the final day of the international tournament in Oberwart. They knocked down Germany for 2-1 record. Alex Tyus (203-F/C-88, college: Florida) came up with 19 points to lead the winners.
Germany jumped into the lead in the opening quarter. They built a 21:17 lead after ten minutes. Germany stretched the lead throughout the second quarter. They ensured a 51:44 halftime advantage. But Israel turned the tables in the third term. They exploded with a 33:17 run to grab a comfortable 9-point lead before the final term. Israel kept Germany at bay throughout the final quarter and rallied to the victory at the end. Omri Casspi (204-F/G-88) provided 18 points, while Raviv Limonad (192-G-84) and Guy Pnini (200-F/G-83) added 12 points each for the winners. Jan-Hendrik Jagla (213-PF-81, college: Penn St.) responded with 14 points for Germany. Heiko Schaffartzik (182-G-84) netted 13 points in the loss.

Israel: Alex Tyus 19, Omri Casspi 18, Raviv Limonad 12, Guy Pnini 12
Germany: Jan-Hendrik Jagla 14, Heiko Schaffartzik 13


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  GIBRALTAR   


U16 European Championship: Gibraltar knocked down San Marino - by Eurobasket News

Gibraltar U16 - San Marino U16 50:45

Gibraltar clinched the Bronze medals at U16 European Championship in Division C. They overcame San Marino on the final day of the tourney. Thomas Yome (178-G/F-96) stepped up with 14 points and 10 rebounds to lead the hosts.
Gibraltar and San Marino traded baskets throughout the opening quarter. The scoreboard read 14:14 after ten minutes. San Marino pulled ahead in the second quarter. They established a 30:21 halftime lead. Gibraltar took over in the third term. The home team unloaded 24 points in the third term and secured a 6-point lead at the final intermission. Gibraltar scored just 5 points in the final quarter but San Marino answered with just six and had to surrender at the end. Jake Haefner (185-G/F-97) notched 11 points and 9 rebounds, while Matthew Martinez (187-C-96) had 8 points for the winners. Igor Biordi (200-C-96) answered with 17 points and 24 boards for San Marino. Lucas Barrena (178-PG-96) netted 12 points and collected 10 rebounds in the loss.

Gibraltar U16: Thomas Yome 14+10 boards, Jake Haefner 11, Matthew Martinez 8
San Marino U16: Igor Biordi 17+24 boards, Lucas Barrena 12+10 boards


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  GREECE   


Keaton Grant moves to Apollon Patras - by Eurobasket News

Keaton Grant (193-G-86, college: Purdue) moves to Apollon Patras for the upcoming season. The American Guard moves to Greece for 2012/2013 season.
Keaton Grant spent the previous season in Astrum Levice. Earlier he played in D-League. The 24-year-old guard averaged 9.1 points, 4.8 rebounds, 1.5 assists and 1.0 steal per game for the Sioux Falls Skyforce. Keaton Grant is the Purdue University graduate. He averaged 6.6 points, 2.8 rebounds and 1.8 assists per game in his senior college season.
In 2011-2012 for Astrum Levice (Czech Rep.-NBL, starting five) he became the fourth top-scorer of the League with 17.9ppg, 5.8rpg, 2.0apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 53.6%, 3PT: 30.3%, FT: 78.9%. He also played at Onyx Levice (Slovakia-Extraliga, starting five) and in 13 games showed 16.8ppg, 4.9rpg, 2.3apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 49.2%, 3PT: 31.9%, FT: 76.1%. Only last year he participated at the Czech Rep. NBL All-Star Game -12 and made it into Eurobasket.com All-Czech Rep. League 2nd Team -12. Moreover he was Eurobasket.com Czech Rep. League All-Imports Players Team -12.


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  HOLLAND   


U16 European Championship: Netherlands finished 9th in Bucharest - by Eurobasket News

Belarus U16-Netherlands U16 63:71

Netherlands finished 9th in Bucharest at the U16 European Championship in Division B. The Dutch side overcame Belarus 71:63 in the last game for both teams at the tournament. The latter meanwhile finished on the 10th position.
Both teams tried to finish the tournament on the higher place and showed their best in the last game. Belarus won the opening period 22-15, but failed in the rest of the quarters. Netherlands replied with 21-17 in the second frame and Tom de Haas closed the half at 39:36. Yannick Franke (185-G-96) nailed three midway through the third period to give his side 47:46 advantage and he also was the last to score in the period for 53:46 lead. Netherlands added 18-14 in the last stanza to seal a necessary win.
Yannick Franke top-scored for the winners with 26 points and David Hahn (198-C-96) collected 10 points and 12 rebounds. Maksim Salash (203-C-96) replied with 27 points and 12 rebounds, while Roman Rubinshteyn (190-PG-96) notched 13. Uladzislau Kandybovic (190-G-96) delivered 12 and Bohdan Repeka (195-F-96) added 6.

Belarus U16: Maksim Salash 27+12 rebs, Roman Rubinshteyn 13, Uladzislau Kandybovic 12, Bohdan Repeka 6
Netherlands U16: Yannick Franke 26, David Hahn 10+12 rebs


Holland shot down Cyprus - by Fred Roggen

The Dutch National team celebrated the second win against Cyprus. They shot down Cyprus in the second friendly game on Sunday in Rotterdam.
Henk Norel (212-F/C-87) stepped up with 23 points to pace the Dutch squad. The teams traded lead throughout the opening frame. The scoreboard read 14-18 after ten minutes.
Holland outscored Cyprus in the second period with 31-8 to clear off. Holland rallied to a 45-26 halftime advantage. The Dutch team stayed in charge posting a 66-42 lead with one quarter to go, the Dutch squad never looked back en route to the victory 101-55.
Henk Norel accounted for 23 points for Holland, while Robin Smeulders (208-F-87, agency: Court Side, college: Portland) netted 17 points in the victory.




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  HUNGARY   


U16 European Championship: Sweden catches up the last train to Division A - by Eurobasket News

Sweden U16-Hungary U16 79:55

Sweden catches up the last train to Division A at the U16 European Championship. The Scandinavian team overcame Hungary 79:55 in the game for the third place that gave the last spot in the top division the next year.
Sweden did not waste time and started with 29-16 in the first period. They produced 19-16 in the second frame for 48:32 at the halftime as Lightner closed the half. Moreover Sweden needed 13-11 in the third period for a nigger lead. They finished the game with 18-12 in the last stanza for the final victory.
Ludvig Hakanson (190-PG-96) paced all the winners with 23 points and 11 assists, while Erik Johansson (194-F-96) notched 22. Andreas Von Uthmann (196-F-96) followed them with 9 points. Patrik Hodi (197-PF-96) ended up with 12 points in defeat and Gyorgy Goloman (204-F/C-96) scored 11. Sweden together with Montenegro and Belgium advanced to Division A.

Sweden U16: Ludvig Hakanson 23+11 ast, Erik Johansson 22, Andreas Von Uthmann 9
Hungary U16: Patrik Hodi 12, Gyorgy Goloman 11


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  IRAN   


Grizzlies re-sign C Haddadi - by Eurobasket News

The Memphis Grizzlies have re-signed center Hamed Haddadi (7'2''-C-85).

Per team policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Haddadi, 27, averaged 2.0 points and 2.0 rebounds along with 0.74 blocks in just under six minutes over 35 games for Memphis last season.

The Iranian national has career averages of 2.1 points and 2.2 rebounds in 121 games over four seasons with the Grizzlies. In Iran, he played for Saba Battery and Paykan Teheran.

Courtesy of www.kansascity.com


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  ISRAEL   


Israel defeat Germany in Oberwart - by Eurobasket News

Israel - Germany 96:82

Israel recorded victory on the final day of the international tournament in Oberwart. They knocked down Germany for 2-1 record. Alex Tyus (203-F/C-88, college: Florida) came up with 19 points to lead the winners.
Germany jumped into the lead in the opening quarter. They built a 21:17 lead after ten minutes. Germany stretched the lead throughout the second quarter. They ensured a 51:44 halftime advantage. But Israel turned the tables in the third term. They exploded with a 33:17 run to grab a comfortable 9-point lead before the final term. Israel kept Germany at bay throughout the final quarter and rallied to the victory at the end. Omri Casspi (204-F/G-88) provided 18 points, while Raviv Limonad (192-G-84) and Guy Pnini (200-F/G-83) added 12 points each for the winners. Jan-Hendrik Jagla (213-PF-81, college: Penn St.) responded with 14 points for Germany. Heiko Schaffartzik (182-G-84) netted 13 points in the loss.

Israel: Alex Tyus 19, Omri Casspi 18, Raviv Limonad 12, Guy Pnini 12
Germany: Jan-Hendrik Jagla 14, Heiko Schaffartzik 13


Portugal prevail against Israel - by Eurobasket News

Portugal - Israel 100:94

Portugal earned the first win at the international tournament in Austria. They defeated Israel for 1-1 record. Joao Gomes (199-F-85) scored 26 points to pace the winners.
Portugal erupted for 33 points in the opening quarter to post a 7-point lead. Israel managed to get within a single point at halftime 45:46. Israel surged ahead in the third quarter. They eked out a 71:66 lead at the final intermission. But Portugal took over in the fourth frame. They fired 34 points and sealed the victory at the end. Mario Fernandes (176-PG-82) knocked down 14 points, while Fabio Lima (196-F-88) added 13 points for the winners. Alex Tyus (203-F/C-88, college: Florida) answered with 21 points for Israel. Omri Casspi (204-F/G-88) had 15 points in the loss.

Portugal: Joao Gomes 26, Mario Fernandes 14, Fabio Lima 13
Israel: Alex Tyus 21, Omri Casspi 15


U16 European Championship: Bosnia and Herzegovina finished 5th in Romania - by Eurobasket News

Israel U16- Bosnia and Herzegovina U16 65:71

Bosnia and Herzegovina finished 5th in Romania at the U16 European Championship in Division B. The team won over Israel 71:65 in their last game. The latter meanwhile ended up on the 6th position.
It was a game of two different halves. At first Israel won the first period 19-17 and added 24-12 in the second frame. It seemed that 43:29 lead at the halftime was enough for Israel but Bosnia and Herzegovina did not give up. Beronja reduced to 52:49 at the end of the third period and Aleksic tied the game at 61:61 with 3 minutes to go. Bosnia finished the game with 10-4 burst and won the game.
Ivo Garic (192-PG-96) top-scored for the winners with 15 points and Sandro Gacic (196-SG-96) nailed 11. Aleksandar Lazic (198-SG-96) collected 10 points and 10 rebounds in the winning effort. Tamir Blatt (178-PG-97) finished the game with 19 points and Roi Huber (184-G-97) scored 13 in defeat. Eran Tessone (200-G-96) poured in 11, whilst Yevgeni Holodov (178-PG-96) added 7.

Israel U16: Tamir Blatt 19, Roi Huber 13, Eran Tessone 11, Yevgeni Holodov 7
Bosnia and Herzegovina U16: Ivo Garic 15, Sandro Gacic 11, Aleksandar Lazic 10+10 rebs,


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  ITALY   


Dawan Robinson stays with Trenkwalder - by Eurobasket News

Dawan Robinson (189-G-82, college: Rhode Island) stays with Trenkwalder for another season. The American player will enter his third straight season with the squad.
Trenkwalder Reggio Emilia have secured the services of Dawan Robinson at the end of the year 2010. Last year the sides have agreed on terms of contract extension.
The season 2010/2011 Dawan Robinson started in D-League. The 29-year-old guard tallied 12.1 points, 3.9 assists and 2.3 rebounds per game for the Erie Bay Hawks. Dawan Robinson moved to Italy in January. He averaged 19.7 points, 3.7 rebounds, 2.6 steals and 1.9 assists per game for Trenkwalder. Dawan Robinson used to play for Prima Veroli back in 2008/10 seasons. He was named Eurobasket.com All-Italian LegaDue Import Player of the Year in 2009. The guard also had stints with Umana Reyer, Limoges and Slask Wroclaw. Dawan Robinson made it into Eurobasket.com All-French ProB 2nd Team in 2007.
In 2011-2012 for Trenkwalder Reggio Emilia (Italy-Lega2, starting five) he had high18.0ppg, 4.6rpg, 2.7apg, Steals-5 (2.4spg), FGP: 52.8%, 3PT: 40.8%, FT: 77.3%.


Caserta tab Eric Chatfield - by Eurobasket News

Caserta bolstered their roster. They have reportedly agreed on terms of contract with Eric Chatfield (191-G-79, college: N.Mexico). The guard spent the last season in France. He played for Paris-Levallois. Eric Chatfield tallied 19.6 points, 3.2 rebounds, 4.2 assists and 1.2 steals per game in ProA. The guard made it onto French ProA All-Imports Team. He also participated at 2012 ProA All-Star Game. Previously Eric Chatfield had stints in France, Syria, Kuwait, Turkey, Qatar, USBL, CBA, Lebanon. Asia-Basket.com named Eric Chatfield All-Asian Club Championship Best Guard in 2008. He also made it onto All-Lebanese League 2nd Team in 2004.


U16 European Championship: Serbia clinch Bronze in Latvia and Lithuania - by Eurobasket News

Serbia U16 - Italy U16 83:69

Serbia stepped onto the pedestal at U16 European Championship. They defeated Italy to claim the Bronze medals.
Serbia started the game strongly. They poured in 24 points in the opening quarter to take a 9-point lead. Serbia boosted the lead in the second quarter. They secured a 43:28 halftime lead. Serbia extended the lead in the third term. They secured a 61:44 lead at the final intermission. Italy fired 25 points in the final period but Serbia survived the challenge and clinched a comfortable win at the end. Ilija Dokovic (185-G-96) posted 15 points, while Nikola Pavlovic (199-PF-96) added 12 points for the winners. Riccardo Rossato (189-PG-96) answered with 18 points for Italy. Federico Mussini (179-PG-96) and Daniel Donzelli (199-SG-96) had 13 points each in the loss.

Serbia U16: Ilija Dokovic 15, Nikola Pavlovic 12, Stefan Peno 11
Italy U16: Riccardo Rossato 18, Federico Mussini 13, Daniel Donzelli 13+13 boards


Jeff Brooks signs with Pallacanestro Cantu - by Eurobasket News

Jeff Brooks (203-F-89, college: Penn St.) signs with Pallacanestro Cantu for the upcoming season. Reportedly, the American signed a 1+1 year deal.
Last year Jeff Brooks started his professional career. The American forward signed a deal with Aurora Basket Jesi.
In 2011-2012 for Fileni BPA Jesi (Italy-Lega2, starting five) he averaged 17.0ppg, 6.9rpg, 1.7spg, FGP: 61.9%, 3PT: 41.0%, FT: 77.4%.
He graduated at the Penn State University few months ago. Brooks played 33 games as a senior averaging 13.1 points, 6.3 rebounds and 1.7 assists. He helped Penn State to reach Big Ten Tournament Finals and was named All-Big Ten Honorable Mention -11. As a junior, Jeff Brooks had 7.4 ppg, 4.2 rpg and 1.4 apg. Penn State won the NIT in 2009. Brooks had 3.3 ppg and 2.6 rpg at that time. Almost the same numbers Brooks had as a freshman.


*****************************************************
  JUCO   


2012 JT Focus Mgt Akron Canton Am Pro Summer League Championship Game: Quincy Diggs Triple Double Lands Him League MVP Honors - by Vance Marbury

2012 JT Focus Mgt Akron Canton Am Pro Summer League Mens Championship Game:

JT Focus 108 vs Atlantis Capital Mgt 97

JT Focus Mgt - Quincy Diggs (Akron U.) 20 pts 14 rebs 10 asts, Nyles Evans (Brevard CC) 38 pts 6 rebs 4 asts, Trey Vaughn (Ohio Christian) 19 pts 7 rebs 2 asts, Nick Brown (West Liberty) 16 pts 8 rebs, Blake Justice (Akron U.) 6 pts 1 ast 1 reb, Jake Kretzer (Akron U.) 7 pts 9 rebs 3 asts

Atlantis Capital Mgt - Alex Abreu (Akron U.) 17 pts 10 rebs 11 asts, Demetrius Treadwell (Akron U.) 35 pts 20 rebs 3 asts, Ron Kinney (Walsh U.) 17 pts 3 rebs 3 asts, Ibrahim Konate (Boston U./Pro) 7 pts 9 rebs

2012 JT Focus Mgt Akron Canton Am Pro Summer League MVP: Quincy Diggs (Akron University)


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  LEBANON   


Champville inks CJ Giles and Darius Rice... - by Rabih Khoury

in a surprising move, and after negotiating a big number of players, Champville management signed today with american forward Darius Rice (208-F-82, college: Miami, FL) and american center C.J. Chester Giles (211-F/C-85, college: Oregon St.). Both Rice and Chester Giles played in Bahrain last year.... Rice will have his first experience in Lebanon, while CJ will be playing here for the third time after playing for Riyadi and Chabab in the previous seasons. also on the other hand, rumors are spread in the market that Chester Giles might be the new naturalized player for the Lebanese NT.


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  LITHUANIA   


Olympics 2012: Argentina open with win over Lithuania - by Eurobasket News

Argentina - Lithuania 102:79

Argentina earned the opening win at the Olympic Games basketball tournament. Luis Scola (204-PF-80) scored 32 points to lead the Latin American team past Lithuania.
Argentina confidently started the game. Three-pointers from Emanuel Ginobili (198-SG-77, agency: Interperformances) and Prigioni set the tone. Lithuania soon got things going as well. The teams eagerly exchange baskets throughout intense first quarter. Argentina eked out a 24:23 lead at the first break. The Latin American side increased the tempo in the second quarter. A barrage of three-pointers from Carlos Delfino (200-SF-82) helped Argentina accumulate a 51:39 halftime advantage. Argentina stayed on fire from behind the arc in the third quarter. Luis Scola executed well inside the paint helping Argentina take a 17-point lead at the final intermission. Lithuania stood no chance in the final quarter as Argentina stayed calm and determined in the final period. Emanuel Ginobili posted 21 points, 10 rebounds and 6 assists, while Carlos Delfino added 20 points for the winners. Linas Kleiza (203-SF-85, college: Missouri) answered with 20 points and 7 boards for Lithuania. Paulius Jankunas (205-PF-84, agency: Alti Sport) had 14 points in defeat.

Argentina: Luis Scola 32, Emanuel Ginobili 21+10 boards, Carlos Delfino 20
Lithuania: Linas Kleiza 20, Paulius Jankunas 14


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  LUXEMBOURG   


U16 European Championship: Estonia successfully finished the campaign - by Eurobasket News

Luxembourg U16-Estonia U16 73:102

Estonia successfully finished the campaign as they overcame Luxembourg in their last game of the U16 European Championship in Division B. Estonia clinched the 17th place after a comfortable 102:73 victory, while Luxembourg dropped at 18th.
Estonia took 28:22 after an offensive first period and added 26-18 in the second quarter. Moreover the second half also belonged to the Baltic State. Estonia won the third period 20-16 and finished the game with 28-17 in the last quarter. Laanisto gave his side three-digit number on the biard and he also scored the last points in the game.
Karl-Robin Jurjens (199-F-96) paced all the winners with 23 points, while Jaagup Russak (179-G-96) notched 22. Ken Lill (188-G-96) poured in 21 points and Marko Meimer (199-F-96, agency: FCM) delivered 10. Timothy Kauffmann (191-SF-96) answered with 24 points in the losing effort and Vic Heuschling (196-F-96) added 12. Oliver Vujakovic (192-F-96) poured in 10 points and Bill Fischer (195-C-96) chipped in with 8.

Luxembourg U16: Timothy Kauffmann 24, Vic Heuschling 12, Oliver Vujakovic 10 Bill Fischer 8
Estonia U16: Karl-Robin Jurjens 23, Jaagup Russak 22, Ken Lill 21, Marko Meimer 10


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  MALTA   


U16 European Championship: Andorra beat Malta to claim 5th place - by Eurobasket News

Andorra U16 - Malta U16 76:67

Andorra posted the victory on the final day of U16 European Championship in Division C. They knocked down Malta to claim the fifth overall position. Sergi Jordana (178-G-96) came up with 21 points to lead the charge.
Malta led by as many as six points at the first intermission 20:14. Andorra took over in the second quarter. They exploded with a 25:7 rally to secure a 39:27 halftime advantage. Malta cut the distance in the third term. They narrowed the deficit at 6-point mark at the final intermission. But Andorra scored 20 points in the fourth period and escaped with the victory at the end. Jimenez Martinez had 18 points and 10 rebounds for Andorra. Blanca Salinas netted 9 points in the winning case. Zane Micallef (170-PG-96) answered with 18 points for Malta. Kieron Caruana (178-F/C-97) had 12 points and 11 rebounds in the loss.

Andorra U16: Sergi Jordana 21, Sergi Jimenez 18+10 boards, Christian Salinas (188-G) 9
Malta U16: Zane Micallef 18, Kieron Caruana 12+11 boards


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  MONACO   


U16 European Championship: Monaco clinch title in Gibraltar - by Eurobasket News

Monaco U16 - Scotland U16 61:53

Monaco claimed the crown at the U16 European Championship in Division C. They held off Scotland in the title game in Gibraltar tonight. Alessandro Generale (185-C-96) scored 25 points and grabbed 11 rebounds to pace the winners.
Scotland led by a single point at the first break 11:10. Monaco turned things around in the second quarter. They posted a 29:19 halftime lead. The teams traded baskets throughout the third quarter. Monaco managed to ensure a 10-point lead at the final intermission. Scotland got within a single point midway through the final frame but Alessandro Generale and Daniel Pieper (185-F-96) helped Monaco regain the lead. They never looked back afterwards and cruised to the victory at the end. Daniel Pieper nailed 16 points and grabbed 13 boards for Monaco. Pierrick Motillon (177-PG-97) and Marechal added 7 points each for the winners. Gregor Gray (193-G/F-96) answered with 16 points and 11 rebounds for Scotland. Rian Neill (188-PF-96) netted 12 points in the loss.

Monaco U16: Alessandro Generale 25+11 boards, Daniel Pieper 16+13 boards, Pierrick Motillon 7, Marachal 7
Scotland U16: Gregor Gray 16+11 boards, Rian Neill 12


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  MONTENEGRO   


In memoriam: Mihajlo Svraka - by Darko Pekic

Strenght and conditioning assistant in Montenegrin National Team, Mihajlo Svraka died yesterday in Belgrade. The 57 years old Serbian assistant coach travelled to Belgrade to take the work permit for Russia as he was supposed to join Unics Kazan. The basketball federation of Montenegro allowed him to leave the National Team before the tournament in Italy and take h=care of his personal business, was announced by the KSCG.

Svraka was an experienced assiatmt coach who started his career in Red Star Belgrade and collaborated with Dragutin Topic (athletics). He helped Topic to qualify four times for the Olympic games. Later he worked with basketball players of FMP Zeleznik and Alba Berlin where he collaborated with the current head coach of Montenegro Luka Pavicevic (agency: Beo Basket ).


U16 European Championship: Belgium clinch Division B title - by Eurobasket News

Montenegro U16-Belgium U16 46:56

Belgium clinch Division B title at the U16 European Championship. The team overcame Montenegro 56:46 in the Final to seal the important victory in Bucharest. Both teams advanced to Division A for the next year.
Although both teams advanced to the top division, their thoughts were still about the gold medals. Belgium started with 25:8 in the opening period and Kanda-Kanyinda scored for 19:10 early in the second. Montenegro meanwhile was far to give up and closed the half with 6-0 run that gave them 28:27 halftime advantage. Later on the teams exchanged the lead several times until Rayan Kayembe-Milongo (96) closed the third period at 40:36. He also scored five points in a row midway through the last quarter for 49:41. His free throws were also last in the game for the trophy in Bucharest.
Rayan Kayembe-Milongo top-scored for the title with 19 points and Sami Demirtas (189-G-96) netted 15. Raphael Dubois (192-F-96) and Justin Kohajda (203-C-96) followed them with 6 points apiece. Mihailo Radunovic (199-SF-96) and Aleksandar Dozic (199-F-96) finished the night with 9 points in the losing effort.

Montenegro U16: Mihailo Radunovic 9, Aleksandar Dozic 9+11 rebs
Belgium U16: Rayan Kayembe-Milongo 19, Sami Demirtas 15, Raphael Dubois 8, Justin Kohajda 6


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  NBA   


Olympics 2012: USA deny France in opener - by Eurobasket News

USA - France 98:71

USA claimed the opening win at the Olympic Games basketball tournament. They knocked down France in London. Kevin Durant (6'9''-SF-88, college: Texas) scored 22 points and grabbed 9 rebounds to pace the winners.
USA and France stayed close throughout the opening frame. The North American side managed a one-point lead at the first break 22:21. Team USA shifted the gear in the second quarter. They ignited an 11:0 run to clear off. USA capped the first half with four points in a row to take a 52:36 halftime lead. Chandler gave USA a 60:38 lead early in the third term. They maintained it posting a 78:51 cushion heading into the fourth stanza. Kevin Durant and Kevin Love (6'10''-PF-88, college: UCLA) ensured an 82:53 lead early in the final period and Team USA cruised to the victory from there on. Kevin Love posted 14 points, while Kobe Bryant (6'6''-SG-78) finished with 10 points for Team USA. Ali Traore (6'10''-PF-85, agency: Beo Basket, college: S.Idaho JC) answered with 12 points for France. Tony Parker (6'2''-PG-82) had 10 points in the loss.

USA: Kevin Durant 22, Kevin Love 14, Kobe Bryant 10
France: Ali Traore 12, Tony Parker 10


Toronto Raptors re-sign centre Aaron Gray - by Eurobasket News

The Toronto Raptors re-signed centre Aaron Gray (7'0''-C-84, college: Pittsburgh) and added free-agent guard John Lucas III (5'11''-PG-82, college: Oklahoma St.) on Friday.

Gray averaged 3.9 points, with 5.7 rebounds and 16.6 minutes in 49 games with the Raptors last season.

The 27-year-old played for the New Orleans Hornets in 2010-11, averaging 3.1 points, 4.2 rebounds and 13 minutes.

The seven-foot, 270-pound Gray was a second-round selection of the Chicago Bulls in the 2007 NBA draft.

The 29-year-old Lucas has averaged five points, 1.4 assists and 11.1 minutes in 111 career regular-season games with the Houston Rockets and Chicago Bulls.

In seven career playoff outings, Lucas has averaged 6.1 points, 1.3 assists and 14.6 minutes.

Lucas had career bests in points (7.5), assists (2.2) and rebounds (1.6) in a career-high 49 games with Chicago last season.

The five-foot-11, 165-pound Lucas played overseas from 2007-10 in Italy, Spain and China after two seasons in the NBA with Houston.

Lucas, who played for the Rockets from 2005 to 2007, is the son of John Lucas, Jr., who was taken first overall by Houston in the 1976 NBA draft.

Courtesy of www.thestar.com


Magic hire Jacque Vaughn as coach - by Eurobasket News

Jacque Vaughn is the new head coach of the Orlando Magic.

A team official said the Magic will hold a press conference Monday afternoon to introduce Vaughn, a former NBA point guard who spent the past two seasons as a San Antonio Spurs assistant coach.

He will take over a franchise that is expected to trade superstar Dwight Howard, go into rebuilding mode and begin to emphasize developing young players.

Vaughn, 37, is widely viewed within NBA circles as bright, hard-working and organized.

But, at the same time, some league insiders have noted that he brings limited coaching experience.

After retiring as a player in 2009, Vaughn was hired in 2010 as an assistant coach with the Spurs, where he worked under Gregg Popovich.

In San Antonio, Vaughn had the same duties as the teams top three assistant coaches: Mike Budenholzer, Don Newman and Brett Brown. All four of them scouted future opponents, helped run practices and had other responsibilities. Still, league rules allow only three assistant coaches on the bench during games, and Budenholzer, Newman and Brown all longer-tenured occupied those seats. Meanwhile, Vaughn sat directly behind the bench.

Magic general manager Rob Hennigan also conducted first-round interviews with Philadelphia 76ers associate head coach Michael Curry, Utah Jazz assistant coach Jeff Hornacek, Golden State Warriors lead assistant coach Michael Malone, Phoenix Suns player development coach Lindsey Hunter and Indiana Pacers associate head coach Brian Shaw.

Hennigan and Vaughn already knew each other. Hennigan was working in San Antonios basketball-operations department when the Spurs signed Vaughn as a free agent in July 2006.

Within league circles and among many Magic fans, Shaw and Malone initially were considered the front-runners for the job. But Shaw either took himself out of the running or was told he was no longer being considered, and Malone didnt advance into the second round.

That development caught many by surprise, including former NBA superstar Shaquille ONeal, who was a teammate of Shaws and played one season for the Cleveland Cavaliers when Malone was a Cavaliers assistant coach.

On Twitter, ONeal wrote: Orlando magic is about to hire jock Vaugh over mike Malone or Brian shaw are u kidding me, wow, good luck winning wit Dat team Dwite howard.

In the past, the Magic have hired a head coach with less coaching experience than Vaughn.

In 1999, the team selected Doc Rivers even though Rivers had never coached beyond his sons youth-league team.

Rivers selection turned out to be an inspired choice. He was named the 1999-00 NBA Coach of the Year after he led a rebuilding team to a 41-41 record. Rivers now is widely regarded as one of the NBAs top coaches.

Vaughn starred in high school and in college and then played 12 NBA seasons, mostly as a backup.

Vaughn earned McDonalds All-America honors as a senior at John Muir High School in Pasadena, Calif., and at the University of Kansas, he was named the Big Eight Player of the Year after his junior season. During college, he twice was named a first-team GTE Academic All-American and he also was named the 1996-97 Academic All-American of the Year.

He played for the Utah Jazz, the Atlanta Hawks, the Magic and the New Jersey Nets before he spent three seasons with the Spurs. Vaughn appeared in all 20 of the Spurs playoff games in 2007 as the Spurs won the NBA title.

Vaughns career path mirrors that of Avery Johnsons, now the Nets head coach.

Johnson also played point guard and spent part of his career with the Spurs, playing for Popovich and winning a title with San Antonio in 1999.

After Johnson retired in 2004, he became an assistant coach for the Dallas Mavericks. When Don Nelsonresigned during the 2004-05 season, Johnson became the head coach and was named the 2005-06 NBA Coach of the Year.

Popovich compared Vaughn to Johnson when Vaughn joined the Spurs coaching staff two years ago.

Jacque Vaughn is a star, Popovich said then, according to the San Antonio Express-News. You can see the same qualities in him that you saw in Avery.

Courtesy of http://articles.sun-sentinel.com


Grizzlies re-sign C Haddadi - by Eurobasket News

The Memphis Grizzlies have re-signed center Hamed Haddadi (7'2''-C-85).

Per team policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Haddadi, 27, averaged 2.0 points and 2.0 rebounds along with 0.74 blocks in just under six minutes over 35 games for Memphis last season.

The Iranian national has career averages of 2.1 points and 2.2 rebounds in 121 games over four seasons with the Grizzlies. In Iran, he played for Saba Battery and Paykan Teheran.

Courtesy of www.kansascity.com


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  NCAA1   


2012 JT Focus Mgt Akron Canton Am Pro Summer League Championship Game: Quincy Diggs Triple Double Lands Him League MVP Honors - by Vance Marbury

2012 JT Focus Mgt Akron Canton Am Pro Summer League Mens Championship Game:

JT Focus 108 vs Atlantis Capital Mgt 97

JT Focus Mgt - Quincy Diggs (Akron U.) 20 pts 14 rebs 10 asts, Nyles Evans (Brevard CC) 38 pts 6 rebs 4 asts, Trey Vaughn (Ohio Christian) 19 pts 7 rebs 2 asts, Nick Brown (West Liberty) 16 pts 8 rebs, Blake Justice (Akron U.) 6 pts 1 ast 1 reb, Jake Kretzer (Akron U.) 7 pts 9 rebs 3 asts

Atlantis Capital Mgt - Alex Abreu (Akron U.) 17 pts 10 rebs 11 asts, Demetrius Treadwell (Akron U.) 35 pts 20 rebs 3 asts, Ron Kinney (Walsh U.) 17 pts 3 rebs 3 asts, Ibrahim Konate (Boston U./Pro) 7 pts 9 rebs

2012 JT Focus Mgt Akron Canton Am Pro Summer League MVP: Quincy Diggs (Akron University)


2012 JT Focus Mgt Akron Canton Am Pro Summer League: Akron U. Demetrius Treadwell + Quincy Diggs Explode!! - by Vance Marbury

2012 JT Focus Mgt Akron Canton Am Pro Basketball Summer League Semi Finals Recap

Game 1 JT Focus 61 vs Mt. Union 58

JT Focus - Keith McLeod (NBA Vet) 11 pts 4 reb, Quincy Diggs (Akron U.) 21 pts 11 reb 5 ast, Blake Justice (Akron U.) 6 pts 3 rebs, Jake Kretzer (Akron U.) 11 pts 5 rebs, Trey Vaughn (Ohio Christian) 8 pts

Mt. Union - Jarrett Ruffin (Mt. Union) 12 pts 7 rebs 4 asts, Jimmy Darnley (Mt. Union) 8 pts 11 rebs, Matt Kiger (Mt. Union) 10 pts 10 rebs, Evan Keeslar (Mt. Union) 13 pts 2 rebs 2 asts

Game 2 Walsh 85 vs Atlantis Capital Mgt 92

Atlantis Capital Mgt - Demetrius Treadwell (Akron U.) 37 pts 12 reb Alex Abreu (Akron U.) 8 pts 9 ast, Mike Porrinni (Kent St.) 4 pts 3 rebs 4 ast, Reggie McAdams 8 pts 5 reb, Ibrahim Konate (Boston U./Pro) 6 pts 6 reb, Ron Kinney (Walsh U.) 21 pts 2 rebs

Walsh University - Rian Burrell (Walsh U.) 13 pts 3 rebs, Devonta Beard (Walsh U.) 15 pts 5 rebs 6 ast, Ryan Vanderhost (Walsh U.) 11 pts, LJ Campbell (Walsh U.) 10 pts 5 reb, Brad Dupont (Walsh U.) 8 pts 3 rebs 7 ast


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  NCAA2   


2012 JT Focus Mgt Akron Canton Am Pro Summer League: Akron U. Demetrius Treadwell + Quincy Diggs Explode!! - by Vance Marbury

2012 JT Focus Mgt Akron Canton Am Pro Basketball Summer League Semi Finals Recap

Game 1 JT Focus 61 vs Mt. Union 58

JT Focus - Keith McLeod (NBA Vet) 11 pts 4 reb, Quincy Diggs (Akron U.) 21 pts 11 reb 5 ast, Blake Justice (Akron U.) 6 pts 3 rebs, Jake Kretzer (Akron U.) 11 pts 5 rebs, Trey Vaughn (Ohio Christian) 8 pts

Mt. Union - Jarrett Ruffin (Mt. Union) 12 pts 7 rebs 4 asts, Jimmy Darnley (Mt. Union) 8 pts 11 rebs, Matt Kiger (Mt. Union) 10 pts 10 rebs, Evan Keeslar (Mt. Union) 13 pts 2 rebs 2 asts

Game 2 Walsh 85 vs Atlantis Capital Mgt 92

Atlantis Capital Mgt - Demetrius Treadwell (Akron U.) 37 pts 12 reb Alex Abreu (Akron U.) 8 pts 9 ast, Mike Porrinni (Kent St.) 4 pts 3 rebs 4 ast, Reggie McAdams 8 pts 5 reb, Ibrahim Konate (Boston U./Pro) 6 pts 6 reb, Ron Kinney (Walsh U.) 21 pts 2 rebs

Walsh University - Rian Burrell (Walsh U.) 13 pts 3 rebs, Devonta Beard (Walsh U.) 15 pts 5 rebs 6 ast, Ryan Vanderhost (Walsh U.) 11 pts, LJ Campbell (Walsh U.) 10 pts 5 reb, Brad Dupont (Walsh U.) 8 pts 3 rebs 7 ast


Messiah Assistant Accepts Division II Job. - by Joan Manuel Sanchez

Will Cabrera (6'3''-G/F-81) will have a new home starting the 2012-13 season. The Messiah assistant accepted a similar position at Mansfield College a division II memeber of the higly competative PSAC Conference. As lead recruiter at Messiah, Cabrera brought in a top notch class that helped Messaish capture a conference title and an NCAA Birth.

Cabrera is a 2006 graduate of Messiah College. Upon graduation, he was given the opportunity to return to his homeland and play basketball in Paraguay's top league. A few years later, in 2008, Coach Cabrera played for Mexico's Professional Basketball League; however, an injury forced him to return back to South America shortly after and continue to work with the Bolivian National Team in charge of recruiting.





Messiah Assistant Accepts Division II Job. - by Joan Manuel Sanchez




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  NCAA3   


Messiah Assistant Accepts Division II Job. - by Joan Manuel Sanchez

Will Cabrera (6'3''-G/F-81) will have a new home starting the 2012-13 season. The Messiah assistant accepted a similar position at Mansfield College a division II memeber of the higly competative PSAC Conference. As lead recruiter at Messiah, Cabrera brought in a top notch class that helped Messaish capture a conference title and an NCAA Birth.

Cabrera is a 2006 graduate of Messiah College. Upon graduation, he was given the opportunity to return to his homeland and play basketball in Paraguay's top league. A few years later, in 2008, Coach Cabrera played for Mexico's Professional Basketball League; however, an injury forced him to return back to South America shortly after and continue to work with the Bolivian National Team in charge of recruiting.





Messiah Assistant Accepts Division II Job. - by Joan Manuel Sanchez




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  NIGERIA   


Olympics 2012: Nigeria win the African battle in the opener - by Eurobasket News

Nigeria-Tunisia 60:56

Nigeria win the African battle in the opener of the Olympics 2012. The surprising team after the Qualifying Tournament overcame Tunisia 60:56 in the first game.
Derrick Obasohan (198-F-81, agency: Beo Basket, college: Texas Arlington) scored the first points at the tournament as Nigeria won the opening tip 8-0. Oguchi brought 17:7 and Aminu closed the first period for plus 11. Nigeria continued their dominance and added 13-8 in the second frame for 31:15 at the halftime. The second half however belonged to Tunisia. The latter bounced back with 16-14 in the third period and reduced to 14 points with 10 minutes to go. Moreover they erupted with 25-15 in the last stanza but could not safe the game. Derrick Obasohan and Aminu brought the last points from the free throw line for the final success.
Alade Aminu (210-C-87, college: Georgia Tech) top-scored for the winners with 15 points and Ike Diogu (208-F/C-83, college: Arizona St.) netted 13. Al-Farouq Aminu (206-F-90, college: Wake Forest) poured in 10, whilst Tony Skinn (191-G-83, college: George Mason) added 7. Amine Rzig (198-SF-80) replied with 18 points in the losing effort and Macram Ben Romdhane (204-PF-89, agency: Prossin Sports Management) collected 12 points and 12 rebounds. Marouana Kechrid (177-PG-81) delivered also 12 points in defeat.

Nigeria: Alade Aminu 15, Ike Diogu 13, Al-Farouq Aminu 10, Tony Skinn 7
Tunisia: Amine Rzig 18, Macram Ben Romdhane 12+12 rebs, Marouana Kechrid 12


Tony Skinn pens deal with Budyvelnik - by Eurobasket News

Tony Skinn (191-G-83, college: George Mason) pens deal with Budyvelnik for the upcoming season. According to sportando.net the Nigerian National team player moves to Ukraine.
Few hours ago Skinn's Nigeria win the African battle in the opener of the Olympics 2012. The surprising team after the Qualifying Tournament overcame Tunisia 60:56 in the first game. Skinn nailed 7 points for the winning side.
In 2008-2009 he played for BCM Gravelines Dunkerque Grand Littoral (France-ProA, starting five) and after 28 games averaged 16.0ppg, 2.5rpg, 3.5apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 50.8%, 3PT: 41.8%, FT: 75.4%. In 2009-2010 moved to Carmatic Pistoia (Italy-Lega2, starting five) where his stats read 15.8ppg, 2.9rpg, 2.6apg, 2.2spg, FGP: 54.5%, 3PT: 30.2%, FT: 67.0%.
In 2010-2011 appeared for New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig (Germany-1.Bundesliga) and showed 10.5ppg, 2.9rpg, 3.2apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 53.0%, 3PT: 31.5%, FT: 66.3%. The last season Tony Skinn played for Ironi Ashkelon (Israel-Premier League, starting five) and had 10.6ppg, 2.7rpg, 2.9apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 52.7%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 74.7%.


D Tigers beat African Champs - by Iwedi Ojinmah

It was for more than African pride as Nigeria took on Tunisia in the much anticipated first game for both at the Olympics in London. Though from the same continent both teams are as alike as night and day. The Tunisian and African Champion all play at home for technically the same Club. The Nigerians on the other hand feature a physical team that has an umbilical cord connected to the United States. All D Tigers have American roots.

And they played like Americans. Good Americans that is.

Not only was their transitional game in high octane form but their defense was just as outstanding. Tunisia did not score in the first 5 minutes and were hounded all day long by D Tigers who challenged everything causing the Arabs to repeatedly let the shot clock run out. Such was the quality of the stifling defense by Nigeria that by the third quarter the North Africans had only been to the line 10 times.

Nigeria led by 16 at half time and to many the game was over especially considering that Tunisia had never beaten Nigeria in the past. But that is why they play the game and that is why Tunisia is the African Champion . From shooting a dismal 17% in the first quarter they clawed their way back and were shooting in the mid 70s by games end. Slowly Nigeria's lead evaporated and within spitting distance of the end whistle she found herself up by just two points.

But Ike Diogu caught his second wind and was just too much in the middle. Even when the Tunisians collapsed around him he remained focus and virtually owned the glass in terms of rebounding. Helped along by Aminu senior who showed the younger brother that he can still can play Nigeria once more turned up the throttle and willed their way to a 60-56 win.

While Coach Bakare much be pleased with this victory he cant be happy with the way the West Africans surrendered their gargantuan lead and I know that practice in the morning for the Tigers will hope to address this. Allowing this to fester in this group would be a disaster


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


U16 European Championship: Slovak Republic and Norway open the last day - by Eurobasket News

Slovak Republic U16-Norway U16 84:45

Slovak Republic and Norway open the last day at the U16 European Championship in Division B. Slovak Republic easily rolled over the opponent 84:45 to clinch the 19th place, while Norway ended up on the 20th position.
Slovak Republic controlled the entire game and started with 26-13 after the first period. They added 24-12 in the second frame for 50:25 halftime advantage. Moreover the second half also belonged to the Slovakian side. They won the third period 16-8 and finished the game with 18-12 in the last stanza.
Jakub Meress (200-PF-96) paced all the winners with 21 points and 11 rebounds, while Robert Rozanek (180-PG-96) netted 19. Norbert Janicek (206-C-96) and David Abrham (190-F-96) followed them with 10 points each. Sjur Berg (196-PF-96) delivered 16 points and Harald Frey (174-PG-97) posted 8.

Slovak Republic U16: Jakub Meress 21+11 rebs, Robert Rozanek 19, Norbert Janicek 10, David Abrham 10
Norway U16: Sjur Berg 16, Harald Frey 8


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  OLYMPIC GAMES   

Standings

Standings
Group A
1. Argentina1-0
2. Nigeria1-0
3. USA1-0
4. Tunisia0-1
5. France0-1
6. Lithuania0-1
Group B
1. Brazil1-0
2. Spain1-0
3. Russia1-0
4. China0-1
5. U.Kingdom0-1
6. Australia0-1

Preliminary Round: Round 1

A

Jul. 29: USA - FRA 98-71
Jul. 29: NGR - TUN 60-56
Jul. 29: ARG - LTU 102-79

B

Jul. 29: ESP - CHN 97-81
Jul. 29: RUS - ENG 95-75
Jul. 29: BRA - AUS 75-71

Preliminary Round: Round 2

A

Jul. 31: LTU - NGR
Jul. 31: FRA - ARG
Jul. 31: TUN - USA

B

Jul. 31: CHN - RUS
Jul. 31: AUS - ESP
Jul. 31: ENG - BRA


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

Group A
Argentina - Lithuania 102-79
Argentina earned the opening win at the Olympic Games basketball tournament. Luis Scola (204-PF-80) scored 32 points to lead the Latin American team past Lithuania. Argentina confidently started the game. Three-pointers from Emanuel Ginobili (198-SG-77, agency: Interperformances) and Prigioni set the tone. Lithuania soon got things going as well. The teams eagerly exchange baskets throughout intense first quarter. Argentina eked out a 24:23 lead at the first break. The Latin American side increased the tempo in the second quarter. A barrage of three-pointers from Carlos Delfino (200-SF-82) helped Argentina accumulate a 51:39 halftime advantage. Argentina stayed on fire from behind the arc in the third quarter. Luis Scola executed well inside the paint helping Argentina take a 17-point lead at the final intermission. Lithuania stood no chance in the final quarter as Argentina stayed calm and determined in the final period. Emanuel Ginobili posted 21 points, 10 rebounds and 6 assists, while Carlos Delfino added 20 points for the winners. Linas Kleiza answered with 20 points and 7 boards for Lithuania. Paulius Jankunas had 14 points in defeat.

USA - France 98-71
USA claimed the opening win at the Olympic Games basketball tournament. They knocked down France in London. Kevin Durant (206-SF-88, college: Texas) scored 22 points and grabbed 9 rebounds to pace the winners. USA and France stayed close throughout the opening frame. The North American side managed a one-point lead at the first break 22:21. Team USA shifted the gear in the second quarter. They ignited an 11:0 run to clear off. USA capped the first half with four points in a row to take a 52:36 halftime lead. Chandler gave USA a 60:38 lead early in the third term. They maintained it posting a 78:51 cushion heading into the fourth stanza. Kevin Durant and Kevin Love ensured an 82:53 lead early in the final period and Team USA cruised to the victory from there on. Kevin Love posted 14 points, while Kobe Bryant (198-SG-78) finished with 10 points for Team USA. Ali Traore answered with 12 points for France. Tony Parker (188-PG-82) had 10 points in the loss.

Nigeria - Tunisia 60-56
Nigeria win the African battle in the opener of the Olympics 2012. The surprising team after the Qualifying Tournament overcame Tunisia 60:56 in the first game. Derrick Obasohan (198-F-81, agency: Beo Basket, college: Texas Arlington) scored the first points at the tournament as Nigeria won the opening tip 8-0. Oguchi brought 17:7 and Aminu closed the first period for plus 11. Nigeria continued their dominance and added 13-8 in the second frame for 31:15 at the halftime. The second half however belonged to Tunisia. The latter bounced back with 16-14 in the third period and reduced to 14 points with 10 minutes to go. Moreover they erupted with 25-15 in the last stanza but could not safe the game. Derrick Obasohan and Aminu brought the last points from the free throw line for the final success. Alade Aminu (210-C-87, college: Georgia Tech) top-scored for the winners with 15 points and Ike Diogu (208-F/C-83, college: Arizona St.) netted 13. Al-Farouq Aminu (206-F-90, college: Wake Forest) poured in 10, whilst Skinn added 7. RZIG replied with 18 points in the losing effort and Macram Ben Romdhane (204-PF-89, agency: Prossin Sports Management) collected 12 points and 12 rebounds. KECHRID delivered also 12 points in defeat.

Group B
Russia - United Kingdom 95-75
Russia storm to victory in opener of the Olympics 2012. The team overcame the host of the campaign 95:75 in London. Russia opened the game with 24-19 and erupted with 25-15 in the second frame. Great Britain seemed to play better in the third period and reduced the gap to 13 points with 10 minutes to go. Russia however did not allow the opponents to come closer and dominated the end of the game. Kirilenko nailed a three-pointer for 81:62, while Timofey Mozgov (215-C-86, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav) brought 83:64 on the board. Antonov poured in two for 87:66 and Kaun scored for 89:70. Sergey Monya increased the lead to 22 points and Freeland reduced to 92:72. Luol Deng and Pops Mensah-Bonsu (206-F-83, agency: SportsTalent, college: G.Washington) cut it to 92:75, while Khvostov closed the game at 95:75. Andrei Kirilenko (209-F-81) exploded with 35 points for the winners and Shved collected 16 points and 13 assists. Vitaliy Fridzon poured in 14, while Timofey Mozgov added 9. Luol Deng and Pops Mensah-Bonsu combined for 48 points in the losing effort and Joel Freeland added 13 points and 10 rebounds.

Spain - China 97-81
Spain recorded the first win at the Olympic Games tournament. They outgunned China in Group B opener for both teams. Pau Gasol (214-F/C-80) scored 21 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. Spain led by just two points after the starting quarter. They entered the second term 19:17 ahead. The European side exploded with 34 points in the second quarter. They established a comfortable 53:41 halftime lead. China got within 7 points on several occasions in the third term but Spain managed to post a 69:60 lead at the final break. Spain stretched the gap to double digits early in the final frame and cruised to the victory at the end. Serge Ibaka accounted for 17 points, while Juan Carlos Navarro posted 14 points in the win. Jianlian Yi (212-PF-87) answered with 30 points and 12 rebounds for China. Wang ZhiZhi (215-C-77) had 15 points in the loss.

Brazil - Australia 75-71
Brazil won over Australia in London in the opener of Group B at Olympics 2012. The Brazilian team outscored Australia 75:71 at the Basketball Arena. Although Australia won the opening period 20-19, they could not stay tough against the opponents. Brazil replied with 17-15 in the second period and took 36:35 at the halftime. Later on Brazil dominated the court starting the third period with 6-0 run. BARBOSA scored for 52:39, while Australia cut it to 52:47 after an 8-0 run. Anderson Varejao (205-C-82) again increased to 10 points early in the fourth and he later scored for 67:62. Ingles reduced to 73:71, but Huertas was perfect from the free throw line at the end of the game. BARBOSA top-scored for the winners with 16 points and Huertas collected 15 points and 10 assists. Anderson Varejao nailed 12, while Hilario posted 8. Mills ended up with 20 points in the losing effort and Ingles notched 15. Andersen poured in 14, while Aron Baynes (208-C-86, college: Washington St.) delivered 10.


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  PHILIPPINES   


2012 PBA Governors Cup Finals Game 4: One Away - by Enzo Flojo

RAIN OR SHINE ELASTO-PAINTERS over B-MEG LLAMADOS, 94-89

One cant shake the feeling that the Elasto-Painters are fated for something great in the 2012 PBA Governors Cup. Once again sans Rookie of the Year Paul Lee, the Painters managed to climb out of a hole and beat the B-Meg Llamados en route to a commanding 3-1 series edge.

Jamelle Cornley was awesome again, but it was the heady play of bench players JR Quiahan and TY Tang that really boosted the Painters charge. Gabe Norwood also had one of his better games of the season, ending up with 18 markers, 4 rebounds, 2 assists, and 1 steal.

Coach Yeng Guiao of Rain or Shine guarantees the title for his franchise, but can they accomplish it as early as Game 5 on Wednesday? Knowing the championship pedigree of B-Meg, it wont be an easy task, but because the Painters are just one away, theyre the smart bet to win it.

Game Report:

The Rain or Shine Elasto Painters moved one step closer to keeping its date with destiny after defeating B-MEG, 94-89, in Game Four of the Governors Cup finals Sunday at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum.

Rain or Shine moved one win away from clinching the series after taking a 3-1 lead.

For the second straight game, the Elasto Painters played without star guard Paul Lee, who won the Rookie of the Year award earlier in the evening. Lee re-aggravated a shoulder injury late in Game Two and is expected to be out of the series.

The Elasto Painters, however, got balanced scoring once again, with five players scoring at least nine points led by import Jamelle Cornley, who posted 23 points, 14 rebounds, and five assists.

Rain or Shine won despite falling behind by 17 points, 29-12, early in the game. A fiery second quarter led by reserves JR Quinahan and TY Tang allowed the Elasto Painters to grab a 47-45 halftime lead.

We started with really low energy, we were just lucky to get out of that hole, said Rain or Shine coach Yeng Guiao, who guaranteed a victory for his team in the series after Lee fell to injury. If they had that lead at halftime, B-MEG is gonna be hard to beat.

The game was close in the fourth quarter before Rain or Shine managed to cut loose, leading 88-81 on Gabe Norwood three-pointer with less than four minutes left. B-MEG tried to mount a rally, but timely hits and steady free throw shooting allowed the Elasto Painters to escape with the win.

But Guiao warned his players about being complacent.

This is a really vulnerable moment for us, we might think its over, but its not, said Guiao, adding that a B-MEG win in Game Five on Wednesday could change the complexion of the series.

The loss spoiled the efforts of B-MEG superstar James Yap, who led all scorers with 25 points.

ROS 94- Cornley 23, Norwood 18, Buenafe 13, Tang 11, Quinahan 9, Chan 7, Belga 4, Arana 3, Cruz 2, Matias 2, Ibanes 2.
BML 89- Yap 25, Blakely 22, Simon 14, Urbiztondo 10, Villanueva 5, Pingris 5, Reavis 4, de Ocampo 4, Barroca 0.
QS: 17-30, 47-45, 74-72, 94-89

Source: Unless otherwise specified, game recaps were compressed and compiled from InterAKTV. (Writing credit to Reynaldo Belen)


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


U16 European Championship: Germany defeat Poland to clinch 5th place - by Eurobasket News

Germany U16 - Poland U16 74:59

German U16 National Team earned the fifth place at the European Championship in Latvia and Lithuania. They knocked down Poland on the final day of action. Niklas Kiel (202-SF-97) scored 21 points and grabbed 13 boards to lead the charge.
Germany unloaded 29 points in the opening quarter to clear off. They secured an 18-point lead at the first break. Germany stretched the gap in the second quarter. They established a 51:26 halftime lead. Poland slowed their opponents down in the third term. They held Germany to 11 points to cut the deficit at 20-point mark. Poland got within 15 in the fourth frame but could not threaten the margin and lost at the end. Andreas Obst (190-SG-96) had 13 points, while Lars Kamp (186-G-96) added 11 points for the winners. Artur Wlodarczyk (174-PG-96) answered with 21 points for Poland. Michal Marek (204-C-96) netted 9 points in the loss.

Germany U16: Niklas Kiel 21+13 boards, Andreas Obst 13, Lars Kamp 11
Poland U16: Artur Wlodarczyk 21, Michal Marek 9


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


Portugal prevail against Israel - by Eurobasket News

Portugal - Israel 100:94

Portugal earned the first win at the international tournament in Austria. They defeated Israel for 1-1 record. Joao Gomes (199-F-85) scored 26 points to pace the winners.
Portugal erupted for 33 points in the opening quarter to post a 7-point lead. Israel managed to get within a single point at halftime 45:46. Israel surged ahead in the third quarter. They eked out a 71:66 lead at the final intermission. But Portugal took over in the fourth frame. They fired 34 points and sealed the victory at the end. Mario Fernandes (176-PG-82) knocked down 14 points, while Fabio Lima (196-F-88) added 13 points for the winners. Alex Tyus (203-F/C-88, college: Florida) answered with 21 points for Israel. Omri Casspi (204-F/G-88) had 15 points in the loss.

Portugal: Joao Gomes 26, Mario Fernandes 14, Fabio Lima 13
Israel: Alex Tyus 21, Omri Casspi 15


U16 European Championship: Nikolov paces F.Y.R. of Macedonia to the 7th place - by Eurobasket News

Portugal U16- F.Y.R. of Macedonia U16 56:70

Kristijan Nikolov (185-G-96) paces F.Y.R. of Macedonia to the 7th place at the U16 European Championship in Division B. he poured in 32 points as F.Y.R. of Macedonia outscored Portugal 70:56 in their last game. Portugal meanwhile finished on the 8th spot.
F.Y.R. of Macedonia opened the game with 8-0 run and won the first period 23:15. Bakoch increased the lead to 10 points, while Andrej Cvetkovski (185-G-96) scored for 30:20. Portugal managed to win the second frame as Mendes cut it to 6 points at the halftime. Mendes also reduced to 36:38 in the middle of the third period, but F.Y.R. of Macedonia closed a quarter with 13-2 burst. They added narrow 19-18 in the last stanza to seal the victory.
Andrej Magdevski (190-G-96) collected 14 points and 10 rebounds, while Andrej Cvetkovski nailed 8. Sergio da Silva (191-SG-96) answered with 10 points in defeat, whilst Diogo Araujo (189-SG-97), Francisco Amiel (186-PG-96) and Luis Camara (194-SF-96) had 9 each.

Portugal U16: Sergio da Silva 10, Diogo Araujo 9, Francisco Amiel 9, Luis Camara 9
F.Y.R. of Macedonia U16: Kristijan Nikolov 32, Andrej Magdevski 14+10 rebs, Andrej Cvetkovski 8


*****************************************************
  PUERTO RICO   


Puerto Ricans takes there talents to DR - by Marcos Carlo

This summer some puerto ricans ballers and coaches travel to Dominican Republic to participate in LNB. An attractive in this league, the players can be active playing and staying near home. There two coaches; Nelson Colon with Titanes, he coached Atleticos of San German last season in BSN and Carlos Mario Rivera with Huracanes , he was inactive last season in Puerto RIco. The players are David Huertas at Metros, Larry Ayuso (190-G-77, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: USC) and Kleon Penn at Huracanes, Christian Dalmau, Alexander Franklyn and Angel Sanchez at Titanes ,and Jose Guitan and Jonathan Rodriguez at Leones.

This league help this players to improve their game and to be in good condition for other basketball leagues until the BSN begins in March 2013.


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


U16 European Championship: Denmark edged the hosts in Bucharest - by Eurobasket News

Denmark U16-Romania U16 91:67

Denmark edged the hosts in Bucharest to close the U16 European Championship campaign. The Danish side grabbed 91:67 victory over Romania to finish on the 13 the place. The hosts of the campaign meanwhile finished on the 14th position.
Denmark did not mind the support for the local team in Bucharest. They started with 25-16 and added 25-24 in the second frame. The second half also belonged to the Danish team. They won the third quarter 24-22 as Jacob Larsen (204-PF-97) made it 74:60. The guests also won the last stanza 17-5 for the final result.
Jacob Larsen erupted with 28 points and 12 rebounds, while Jakob Ravn (193-G-96) notched 16. Mads Hansen (194-G-96) delivered 13 points for the guests. Emanuel Cate (201-C-97) answered with 25 points and 14 rebounds in the losing case and Marius Ciotlaus (194-SF-96) chipped in with 11.

Denmark U16: Jacob Larsen 28+12 rebs, Jakob Ravn 16, Mads Hansen 13
Romania U16: Emanuel Cate 25+14 rebs, Marius Ciotlaus 11


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


Olympics 2012: Russia storm to victory in opener - by Eurobasket News

Russia -Great Britain 95:75

Russia storm to victory in opener of the Olympics 2012. The team overcame the host of the campaign 95:75 in London.
Russia opened the game with 24-19 and erupted with 25-15 in the second frame. Great Britain seemed to play better in the third period and reduced the gap to 13 points with 10 minutes to go. Russia however did not allow the opponents to come closer and dominated the end of the game. Kirilenko nailed a three-pointer for 81:62, while Timofey Mozgov (215-C-86, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav) brought 83:64 on the board. Antonov poured in two for 87:66 and Kaun scored for 89:70. Sergey Monya (203-PF-83) increased the lead to 22 points and Freeland reduced to 92:72. Luol Deng and Pops Mensah-Bonsu (206-F-83, agency: SportsTalent, college: G.Washington) cut it to 92:75, while Khvostov closed the game at 95:75.
Andrei Kirilenko (209-F-81) exploded with 35 points for the winners and Shved collected 16 points and 13 assists. Vitaliy Fridzon (196-G-85, agency: Alti Sport) poured in 14, while Timofey Mozgov added 9. Luol Deng (206-F-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Duke) and Pops Mensah-Bonsu combined for 48 points in the losing effort and Joel Freeland (208-F-87) added 13 points and 10 rebounds.

Russia: Andrei Kirilenko 35, Shved 16+13 ast, Vitaliy Fridzon 14, Timofey Mozgov 9
Great Britain: Luol Deng 26, Pops Mensah-Bonsu 22, Joel Freeland 13+10 rebs


U16 European Championship: Russia overcome England - by Eurobasket News

Russia U16 - England U16 72:69 (OT)

Russia capped their U16 European Championship campaign with victory. They knocked down England to seal the top spot in classification round Group G. Ilya Karpenkov (200-C-97) scored 20 points and grabbed 15 rebounds for Russia.
Russia led by a single point 16:15 after ten minutes. England stole the lead in the second period. They eked out a 27:26 halftime lead. Russia erased the deficit and levelled things up at 42 at the third break. Joseph Swindells (191-SF-96) and Ikponmwosa Oghide (96) put England in front 62:61 with 47 seconds remaining in regulation. But Alexander Gavrilov (192-PG-96) hit a free throw and sent the game into overtime. Ilya Karpenkov and Alexander Gavrilov then proved the difference late in the extra period hitting four points and sealing the victory for Russia. Aleksandr Zuev (193-PG-96) accounted for 15 points, while Pavel Afanasev (194-SG-96) netted 11 points for the winners. Joseph Swindells responded with 17 points for England. Ikponmwosa Oghide had 16 points in the loss.

Russia U16: Ilya Karpenkov 20+15 boards, Aleksandr Zuev 15, Pavel Afanasev 11
England U16: Joseph Swindells 17, Ikponmwosa Oghide 16


Sonny Weems moves to CSKA for the upcoming season - by Eurobasket News

Sonny Weems (198-G/F-86, college: Arkansas) moves to CSKA for 2012/2013 season. The American player agreed a 3-year deal and moves to Russia.
Recently Sonny Weems and Zalgiris agreed on terms of contract termination. The guard sustained a season-ending injury days last week and decided to return to the USA.
Sonny Weems joined the Kaunas team at the beginning of the season. He averaged 15.5 points, 5.0 rebounds and 1.3 assists per game in Euroleague. In VTB League Sonny Weems posted 10.3 points, 4.1 rebounds and 2.0 assists per appearance. The guard also delivered 9.0 points, 3.0 rebounds and 1.5 steals in Baltic League. In LKL his stats read 10.0 points, 4.1 rebounds, 1.4 steals and 1.8 assists. Sonny Weems helped Zalgiris win Lithuanian Cup title. Previously Sonny Weems played in the NBA for the Nuggets and the Raptors. He was also D-League champion together with the Colorado 14ers in 2009.


Boris Livanov takes over Ataman - by Eurobasket News

Ataman Rostov announced the name of their new head coach. Boris Livanov will guide the team in the next season. The specialist worked with Spartak-Primorie during the last two seasons. Eurobasket.com named Boris Livanov All-Russian Superleague Coach of the Year in 2011. Spartak-Primorie advanced from Superleague to PBL in 2011. Last season the team 8-10 record in PBL regular season. Previously Boris Livanov worked with TEMP-SUMZ Revda, RVK Moscow, KTP Kotka and Spartak Saint Petersburg. He also worked as assistant coach with CSK VVS Samara and Dynamo Moscow Oblast. Boris Livanov has experience working with Russian U16 and U20 National Teams. He also was coach assistant with U18 National selection.


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


U16 European Championship: Gibraltar knocked down San Marino - by Eurobasket News

Gibraltar U16 - San Marino U16 50:45

Gibraltar clinched the Bronze medals at U16 European Championship in Division C. They overcame San Marino on the final day of the tourney. Thomas Yome (178-G/F-96) stepped up with 14 points and 10 rebounds to lead the hosts.
Gibraltar and San Marino traded baskets throughout the opening quarter. The scoreboard read 14:14 after ten minutes. San Marino pulled ahead in the second quarter. They established a 30:21 halftime lead. Gibraltar took over in the third term. The home team unloaded 24 points in the third term and secured a 6-point lead at the final intermission. Gibraltar scored just 5 points in the final quarter but San Marino answered with just six and had to surrender at the end. Jake Haefner (185-G/F-97) notched 11 points and 9 rebounds, while Matthew Martinez (187-C-96) had 8 points for the winners. Igor Biordi (200-C-96) answered with 17 points and 24 boards for San Marino. Lucas Barrena (178-PG-96) netted 12 points and collected 10 rebounds in the loss.

Gibraltar U16: Thomas Yome 14+10 boards, Jake Haefner 11, Matthew Martinez 8
San Marino U16: Igor Biordi 17+24 boards, Lucas Barrena 12+10 boards


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


U16 European Championship: Monaco clinch title in Gibraltar - by Eurobasket News

Monaco U16 - Scotland U16 61:53

Monaco claimed the crown at the U16 European Championship in Division C. They held off Scotland in the title game in Gibraltar tonight. Alessandro Generale (185-C-96) scored 25 points and grabbed 11 rebounds to pace the winners.
Scotland led by a single point at the first break 11:10. Monaco turned things around in the second quarter. They posted a 29:19 halftime lead. The teams traded baskets throughout the third quarter. Monaco managed to ensure a 10-point lead at the final intermission. Scotland got within a single point midway through the final frame but Alessandro Generale and Daniel Pieper (185-F-96) helped Monaco regain the lead. They never looked back afterwards and cruised to the victory at the end. Daniel Pieper nailed 16 points and grabbed 13 boards for Monaco. Pierrick Motillon (177-PG-97) and Marechal added 7 points each for the winners. Gregor Gray (193-G/F-96) answered with 16 points and 11 rebounds for Scotland. Rian Neill (188-PF-96) netted 12 points in the loss.

Monaco U16: Alessandro Generale 25+11 boards, Daniel Pieper 16+13 boards, Pierrick Motillon 7, Marachal 7
Scotland U16: Gregor Gray 16+11 boards, Rian Neill 12


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  SEBL   

Standings

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



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


Serbia outgun Ukraine in Laktasi - by Eurobasket News

Serbia-Ukraine 84:64

Serbia outgun Ukraine in Laktasi in their second friendly appearance. The hosts added similar 84:64 win in the second game against the opponents.
Serbia opened the game with 20:15 and never looked behind after. They produced a decisive 25-7 in the second frame for 45:23 at the halftime. Ukraine meanwhile responded with 25-19 in the third period and reduced to 16 points after three quarters. The hosts did not slow down and finished the game with 20-17 at the end of the game.
Vladimir Lucic (202-F-89, agency: Beo Basket) paced all the winners with 14 points, while Milos Teodosic (195-G-87) and Nemanja Nedovic (192-PG-91, agency: Beo Basket) added 12 apiece. Milan Macvan (206-C-89, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) nailed 11 points in the winning effort. Steven Burtt (185-G-84, college: Iona) replied with 10 points in the losing effort, while Dmytro Gliebov and Maksym Pustozvonov (200-F-87, agency: Beo Basket) had 8 apiece. Sergii Gladyr ended up with 7 points in the losing case.

Serbia: Vladimir Lucic 14, Milos Teodosic 12, Nemanja Nedovic 12, Milan Macvan 11
Ukraine: Steven Burtt 10, Dmytro Gliebov (198-F-88, agency: Beo Basket) 8, Maksym Pustozvonov 8, Sergii Gladyr (196-G/F-88) 7


U16 European Championship: Serbia clinch Bronze in Latvia and Lithuania - by Eurobasket News

Serbia U16 - Italy U16 83:69

Serbia stepped onto the pedestal at U16 European Championship. They defeated Italy to claim the Bronze medals.
Serbia started the game strongly. They poured in 24 points in the opening quarter to take a 9-point lead. Serbia boosted the lead in the second quarter. They secured a 43:28 halftime lead. Serbia extended the lead in the third term. They secured a 61:44 lead at the final intermission. Italy fired 25 points in the final period but Serbia survived the challenge and clinched a comfortable win at the end. Ilija Dokovic (185-G-96) posted 15 points, while Nikola Pavlovic (199-PF-96) added 12 points for the winners. Riccardo Rossato (189-PG-96) answered with 18 points for Italy. Federico Mussini (179-PG-96) and Daniel Donzelli (199-SG-96) had 13 points each in the loss.

Serbia U16: Ilija Dokovic 15, Nikola Pavlovic 12, Stefan Peno 11
Italy U16: Riccardo Rossato 18, Federico Mussini 13, Daniel Donzelli 13+13 boards


Serbia U18 wins the International Tournament in Novi Sad - by Eurobasket News

Serbia U18-Turkey U18 79:62

Serbia U18 wins the International Tournament in Novi Sad with 4 participating teams. The hosts won all three games including the last one over Turkey U18 79:62. The Turkish side meanwhile finished on the second place with 2-1 record.
Serbia looked better in the opening period and started with 24-13. They added 22-16 in the second frame and enjoyed 46:29 advantage at the halftime. Turkey did not give up and erupted with 25-15 in the third quarter to reduce to 7 points. Serbia meanwhile added 18-8 in the last stanza for the final success.
Mulutinov and Doko Salic (210-C-95) top-scored for the winners with 12 points each. Nikola Radicevic (194-G-94) and Nikola Jankovic (200-F-94) followed them with 11 points apiece. Cedi Osman finished the game with 12 points in defeat, whilst Yigit Emre Mirza (207-C-94) and Metecan Birsen (205-G/F-95) poured in 11 points each. Jidizli delivered 8 points in a loss.
Nikola Jankovic became the MVP of the tournament.

Serbia U18: Mulutinov 12, Doko Salic 12, Nikola Radicevic 11, Nikola Jankovic 11
Turkey U18: Cedi Osman 12, Yigit Emre Mirza 11, Metecan Birsen 11, Jidizli 8


Duda cuts Dragan Labovic and Nemanja Jaramaz - by Ivan Milenkovic

Serbian head coach Dusan Ivkovic decided to cut two more players from national team. Dragan Labovic and Nemanja Jaramaz will not play in Eurobasket qualifications this summer after failing to impress Serbian national team coach. On the other hand, captain Nenad Krstic and Aleksandar Rasic are struggling with injuries. Because of that, Duda Ivkovic shortened list to 16 instead to 14 players.

Current list of Serbian national team: Milos Teodosic, Milenko Tepic, Aleksandar Rasic, Danilo Andjusic, Ivan Paunic, Nemanja Nedovic, Nemanja Bjelica, Marko Keselj, Vladimir Lucic, Dusko Savanovic, Zoran Erceg, Milan Macvan, Nenad Krstic, Dejan Musli, Vladimir Stimac, Mile Ilic.


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  SLOVAKIA   


U16 European Championship: Slovak Republic and Norway open the last day - by Eurobasket News

Slovak Republic U16-Norway U16 84:45

Slovak Republic and Norway open the last day at the U16 European Championship in Division B. Slovak Republic easily rolled over the opponent 84:45 to clinch the 19th place, while Norway ended up on the 20th position.
Slovak Republic controlled the entire game and started with 26-13 after the first period. They added 24-12 in the second frame for 50:25 halftime advantage. Moreover the second half also belonged to the Slovakian side. They won the third period 16-8 and finished the game with 18-12 in the last stanza.
Jakub Meress (200-PF-96) paced all the winners with 21 points and 11 rebounds, while Robert Rozanek (180-PG-96) netted 19. Norbert Janicek (206-C-96) and David Abrham (190-F-96) followed them with 10 points each. Sjur Berg (196-PF-96) delivered 16 points and Harald Frey (174-PG-97) posted 8.

Slovak Republic U16: Jakub Meress 21+11 rebs, Robert Rozanek 19, Norbert Janicek 10, David Abrham 10
Norway U16: Sjur Berg 16, Harald Frey 8


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


U16 European Championship: Slovenia topple Czech Republic - by Eurobasket News

Slovenia U16 - Czech Republic U16 78:66

Slovenia earned the victory on the final day of the U16 European Championship. They defeated Czech Republic but both teams would play in Division B next season. Matej Kavas (193-G-96) knocked down 17 points to lead the charge.
Czech Republic stunned Slovenia in the opening quarter. They went on a 22:9 run in the first ten minutes. Slovenia however picked up the slack in the second frame. They unloaded 25 points to level things up at 34. Slovenia pulled ahead in the third term and secured a 7-point lead at the final intermission. Slovenia fired 24 points in the final stanza and sealed the victory at the end. Aljaz Slutej (191-PG-96) knocked down 14 points, while Tilen Kodrin (202-SF-96) added 13 points for the winners. Matej Svoboda (200-PF-96) answered with 21 points for Czech Republic. David Skranc (196-C-96) had 13 points in the loss.

Slovenia U16: Matej Kavas 17, Aljaz Slutej 14, Tilen Kodrin 13
Czech Republic U16: Matej Svoboda 21, David Skranc 13


Union Olimpija's first signing of the summer is Dominic Waters - by Matej Bergant

Union Olimpija signed two-years contract with US point guard Dominic Waters (185-PG-86, college: Portland St.) who comes from Belgium's Belgacom Liege Basket. He was averaging 12,3 points, 2,8 rebounds and 4,1 assists per game during last season. He was ranked first in assists per game in Belgium's first division. Before his season in Liege he was playing for VOO Verviers-Pepinster. Waters attended college at Hawaii and Portland State University.


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  SPAIN   


Ford Burgos tab Lucas Sikma - by Eurobasket News

Ford Burgos bolstered their frontcourt. They agreed on terms of contract with Lucas Sikma (203-F-89, college: Portland). The forward spent the previous season with La Palma. He tallied 11.9 points, 7.7 rebounds, 1.8 assists and 1.5 steals per game in LEB Gold. Eurobasket.com named Lucas Sikma All-Spanish LEB Gold Defensive Player of the Year. It was the first pro season for Lucas Sikma. He graduated from the University of Portland in 2011. His stats read 12.9 points, 10.5 boards, 2.6 assists per game in the senior season. The forward made it into All-WCC 1st Team. Lucas Sikma participated at Portsmouth Invitational Tournament. His stats read 8.3 points and 9.0 boards per appearance in the Pre-NBA Draft tourney.


U16 European Championship: Spain clinch 7th place - by Eurobasket News

Spain U16 - Croatia U16 79:72

Spain recorded the victory on the final day of the U16 European Championship. They knocked down Croatia to claim the 7th place in the ladder. Marc Garcia (194-F-96) scored 21 points to lead the winners.
Spain and Croatia stayed close throughout the opening quarter. Croatia eked out a 22:20 lead after ten minutes. Spain cut the deficit to a single point at halftime 42:41. The Spaniards stiffened their defence in the third term. They pulled ahead to take a 55:52 lead at the final intermission. Spain grabbed an 8-point lead late in regulation and eventually sealed the victory. Carlos Martinez (198-F-96) netted 13 points, while Marc Bauza (205-C-96) had 10 points for the winners. Marko Arapovic (207-C/F-96) answered with 24 points for Croatia. Luka Bozic (188-PG-96) netted 13 points in the loss.

Spain U16: Marc Garcia 21, Carlos Martinez 13, Marc Bauza 10
Croatia U16: Marko Arapovic 24, Luka Bozic 13


Olympics 2012: Spain fire past China - by Eurobasket News

Spain - China 97:81

Spain recorded the first win at the Olympic Games tournament. They outgunned China in Group B opener for both teams. Pau Gasol (214-F/C-80) scored 21 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners.
Spain led by just two points after the starting quarter. They entered the second term 19:17 ahead. The European side exploded with 34 points in the second quarter. They established a comfortable 53:41 halftime lead. China got within 7 points on several occasions in the third term but Spain managed to post a 69:60 lead at the final break. Spain stretched the gap to double digits early in the final frame and cruised to the victory at the end. Serge Ibaka (208-C/F-89) accounted for 17 points, while Juan Carlos Navarro (192-G-80) posted 14 points in the win. Jianlian Yi (212-PF-87) answered with 30 points and 12 rebounds for China. Wang ZhiZhi (215-C-77) had 15 points in the loss.

Spain: Pau Gasol 21+11 boards, Serge Ibaka 17, Juan Carlos Navarro 14
China: Jianlian Yi 30+12 boards, Wang ZhiZhi 15


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  SWEDEN   


U16 European Championship: Sweden catches up the last train to Division A - by Eurobasket News

Sweden U16-Hungary U16 79:55

Sweden catches up the last train to Division A at the U16 European Championship. The Scandinavian team overcame Hungary 79:55 in the game for the third place that gave the last spot in the top division the next year.
Sweden did not waste time and started with 29-16 in the first period. They produced 19-16 in the second frame for 48:32 at the halftime as Lightner closed the half. Moreover Sweden needed 13-11 in the third period for a nigger lead. They finished the game with 18-12 in the last stanza for the final victory.
Ludvig Hakanson (190-PG-96) paced all the winners with 23 points and 11 assists, while Erik Johansson (194-F-96) notched 22. Andreas Von Uthmann (196-F-96) followed them with 9 points. Patrik Hodi (197-PF-96) ended up with 12 points in defeat and Gyorgy Goloman (204-F/C-96) scored 11. Sweden together with Montenegro and Belgium advanced to Division A.

Sweden U16: Ludvig Hakanson 23+11 ast, Erik Johansson 22, Andreas Von Uthmann 9
Hungary U16: Patrik Hodi 12, Gyorgy Goloman 11


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  SWITZERLAND   


U16 European Championship: Bulgaria grab the win over Switzerland - by Eurobasket News

Switzerland U16-Bulgaria U16 62:63

Bulgaria grab the win over Switzerland at the U16 European Championship in Division B. Even 35 points from Luka Mandic (195-F-96) were not enough for the Swiss side as they lost to the Bulgarian side 62:63. The latter finished on the 15th place in Bucharest.
It was a real thriller in the court and kept the spectators alive until the last seconds. At first Switzerland started with 19-12, but could not win the half. Bulgaria replied with 23-12 in the second frame and took 35:31 lead at the hlaftime after Alex Ouandie (193-G-96)s shot. Mathieu Giroud (185-SF-96) later gave Switzerland 41:40 lead, while Alex Ouandie closed the frame at 48:47. The squads exchanged the lead several more times in the fourth quarter and then Lyubomir Nedkov (193-G-96) scored for 61:61. Lyubomir Nedkov meanwhile scored the last basket for Bulgaria and brought a 1-point win.
Alexander Iliev (190-SG-96), Alex Ouandie, Tsanko Kraev (194-F-97) and Lyubomir Nedkov top-scored for the winners with 10 points each. Luka Mandic paced all the Swiss player with 35 points and 12 rebounds. Mathieu Giroud nailed 8, while Mattia Cafisi (181-PG-97) delivered 7 points.

Switzerland U16: Luka Mandic 35+12 rebs, Mathieu Giroud 8, Mattia Cafisi 7
Bulgaria U16: Alexander Iliev 10, Alex Ouandie 10, Tsanko Kraev 10, Lyubomir Nedkov 10


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  TUNISIA   


Olympics 2012: Nigeria win the African battle in the opener - by Eurobasket News

Nigeria-Tunisia 60:56

Nigeria win the African battle in the opener of the Olympics 2012. The surprising team after the Qualifying Tournament overcame Tunisia 60:56 in the first game.
Derrick Obasohan (198-F-81, agency: Beo Basket, college: Texas Arlington) scored the first points at the tournament as Nigeria won the opening tip 8-0. Oguchi brought 17:7 and Aminu closed the first period for plus 11. Nigeria continued their dominance and added 13-8 in the second frame for 31:15 at the halftime. The second half however belonged to Tunisia. The latter bounced back with 16-14 in the third period and reduced to 14 points with 10 minutes to go. Moreover they erupted with 25-15 in the last stanza but could not safe the game. Derrick Obasohan and Aminu brought the last points from the free throw line for the final success.
Alade Aminu (210-C-87, college: Georgia Tech) top-scored for the winners with 15 points and Ike Diogu (208-F/C-83, college: Arizona St.) netted 13. Al-Farouq Aminu (206-F-90, college: Wake Forest) poured in 10, whilst Tony Skinn (191-G-83, college: George Mason) added 7. Amine Rzig (198-SF-80) replied with 18 points in the losing effort and Macram Ben Romdhane (204-PF-89, agency: Prossin Sports Management) collected 12 points and 12 rebounds. Marouana Kechrid (177-PG-81) delivered also 12 points in defeat.

Nigeria: Alade Aminu 15, Ike Diogu 13, Al-Farouq Aminu 10, Tony Skinn 7
Tunisia: Amine Rzig 18, Macram Ben Romdhane 12+12 rebs, Marouana Kechrid 12


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  TURKEY   


Serbia U18 wins the International Tournament in Novi Sad - by Eurobasket News

Serbia U18-Turkey U18 79:62

Serbia U18 wins the International Tournament in Novi Sad with 4 participating teams. The hosts won all three games including the last one over Turkey U18 79:62. The Turkish side meanwhile finished on the second place with 2-1 record.
Serbia looked better in the opening period and started with 24-13. They added 22-16 in the second frame and enjoyed 46:29 advantage at the halftime. Turkey did not give up and erupted with 25-15 in the third quarter to reduce to 7 points. Serbia meanwhile added 18-8 in the last stanza for the final success.
Mulutinov and Doko Salic (210-C-95) top-scored for the winners with 12 points each. Nikola Radicevic (194-G-94) and Nikola Jankovic (200-F-94) followed them with 11 points apiece. Cedi Osman finished the game with 12 points in defeat, whilst Yigit Emre Mirza (207-C-94) and Metecan Birsen (205-G/F-95) poured in 11 points each. Jidizli delivered 8 points in a loss.
Nikola Jankovic became the MVP of the tournament.

Serbia U18: Mulutinov 12, Doko Salic 12, Nikola Radicevic 11, Nikola Jankovic 11
Turkey U18: Cedi Osman 12, Yigit Emre Mirza 11, Metecan Birsen 11, Jidizli 8


Xavier Gibson inks with Antalya - by Eurobasket News

Xavier Gibson (210-F/C-88) inks with Antalya for 2012/2013 season. According to sportando.net Antalya BSB signed for the coming season Xavier Gibson.
In 2008-2009 he started for Florida St. (NCAA) and in 32 games averaged 2.3ppg, 1.4rpg. In 2009-2010 for Florida St. (NCAA) his stats read 5.5ppg, 2.8rpg, FGP: 55.5%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 53.8%. In 2010-2011 he improved to 4.7ppg, 3.7rpg.
Last season for Florida St. (NCAA) Xavier Gibson showed 6.8ppg, 4.3rpg, 1.3bpg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 26.3%, FT: 67.6%. In 2012 he participated at the Portsmouth Invitational Tournament (Pre-NBA Draft) and after 3 games showed 11.0ppg, 6.7rpg, 2.3apg, 1.3bpg.
In 2009 he became ACC Tournament Finalist and last season reached NCAA Sweet 16. Moreover together with his team Xavier Gibson became ACC Tournament Winner -12.
Gibson was targeted also by Angelico Biella but Antalya secured him for the upcoming season.


U16 European Championship: Turkey beat France to clinch the title - by Eurobasket News

Turkey U16 - France U16 66:61

Turkey are the new U16 European champions. They overcame France in the title game tonight in Vilnius. Mehmet Alemdaroglu (205-F-96) posted 14 points and 11 rebounds to lead the winners.
Turkey set the tone early in the championship game. They went on a 9:2 run at the start of the game. Turkey maintained the lead and posted a 19:16 lead at the first break. The margin grew at 8-point mark midway through the second term. Turkey ensured a 37:33 halftime lead. Turkey opened a double-digit lead in the third term. They posted a 53:41 lead late in the quarter. France trimmed the distance to a single point 59:60 with just over three minutes remaining in regulation. Ediz Oktay (192-G-96) and Ulubay gave some breathing room for Turkey. Smock kept France hopeful but two free throws from Ediz Oktay sealed the victory for Turkey. Akif Guven (206-C-96) posted 12 points, while Ediz Oktay added 10 points for the winners. Lucas Dussoulier (196-PG-96) and Cyrille Eliezer-Vanerot (194-F-96) answered with 11 points each for France.

Turkey U16: Mehmet Alemdaroglu 14+11 boards, Akif Guven 12, Ediz Oktay 10
France U16: Lucas Dussoulier 11, Cyrille Eliezer-Vanerot 11


Charles Davis remains with Banvit Basketbol Kulubu - by Eurobasket News

Charles Davis (202-F-84, college: Alabama) remains with Banvit Basketbol Kulubu for the upcoming season. The player will enter his 4th straight season with the squad.
Early in 2009 Banvit announced the agreement with Charles Davis who came off another successful season in TBL. The import forward spent 08-09 season with Aliaga and posted 18.6ppg, 7.8rpg, 3.0apg, 1.3spg and 1.6bpg on 56.5% shooting. Davis is known as an athletic forward with impressive one on one skills. Former Alabama star had his first overseas season in TBL with Casa TED Kolejliler and later headed to Beligum to put on Telindus Oostende jersey.
In his first season for Banvit he averaged 13.1ppg, 5.6rpg, 1.7apg, Blocks-4 (1.0bpg), FGP: 56.4%, 3PT-1 (71.4%), FT: 73.7%. Last season he showed 13.0ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.8apg, Blocks-2 (1.3bpg), FGP: 57.9%, 3PT: 36.7%, FT: 76.3% in Turkish League and at the Euroleague Qualifying Round had 15pts, 4reb, 1ast, 1steal. In EuroCup after 12 games his stats read 13.1ppg, 3.5rpg, 1.7apg, Steals-5 (1.8spg), FGP: 48.4%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 79.5%.


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  UBA   


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

David Walls Reports
July 28, 2012

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

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

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

"I've talked with a few guys and they all think I'm crazy", said Barnes. The younger guys don't understand how important it is to have a kid, a business and passion for both. I love playing overseas but at this time the UBA is whats best for me.

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

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

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



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  UGANDA   


FUBA postpones games, demands stadium opening - by Joel Nature

Following the denial of access to Lugogo Indoor Stadium (MTN Arena) by MTN officials for FUBA to have league games played at the facility, the basketball governing body has postponed all games scheduled for the weekend. All leagues games in all divisions were affected regardless of the venue. The position was reached during a highly publicised meeting of game stakeholders on Saturday at Lugogo.

A task force was also formed to discuss the way forward. "We have formed a task force and we will use all ways and means such that by Wednesday we access the stadium" FUBA president, Ambrose Tasobya said. The federation also demands the official position of MTN on the matter as the body (FUBA) claims this comes down to individuals in MTN. "It's not a policy of MTN to stop games, it's individuals. We demand MTN for an official position" Tasobya, added.

In a task force meeting, the way forward agreed upon was to draft a letter on Sunday (today), copy different individuals and petition the house on Wednesday, if nothing is done by Tuesday a source said. The federation will also take the legal route against MTN or individuals in the company after MTN has made its position in this matter clear for the damages caused.

According to a letter circulated to the media, Aligawesa wrote to MTN informing them of plans to host basketball games at the arena between July 27 and 29.

In an extraordinary response, MTN facilities manager Shila Mugisha wrote back to Aligawesa informing him that the games could not take place at the stadium.

She said, Please adhere to avoid any embarrassing situations.

In the letter dated 26 July 2012, Mugisha informs Aligawesa that we cannot accept the event to take place as the requisite basketball hoops have not yet been put in place"




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  UKRAINE   


Serbia outgun Ukraine in Laktasi - by Eurobasket News

Serbia-Ukraine 84:64

Serbia outgun Ukraine in Laktasi in their second friendly appearance. The hosts added similar 84:64 win in the second game against the opponents.
Serbia opened the game with 20:15 and never looked behind after. They produced a decisive 25-7 in the second frame for 45:23 at the halftime. Ukraine meanwhile responded with 25-19 in the third period and reduced to 16 points after three quarters. The hosts did not slow down and finished the game with 20-17 at the end of the game.
Vladimir Lucic (202-F-89, agency: Beo Basket) paced all the winners with 14 points, while Milos Teodosic (195-G-87) and Nemanja Nedovic (192-PG-91, agency: Beo Basket) added 12 apiece. Milan Macvan (206-C-89, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) nailed 11 points in the winning effort. Steven Burtt (185-G-84, college: Iona) replied with 10 points in the losing effort, while Dmytro Gliebov and Maksym Pustozvonov (200-F-87, agency: Beo Basket) had 8 apiece. Sergii Gladyr ended up with 7 points in the losing case.

Serbia: Vladimir Lucic 14, Milos Teodosic 12, Nemanja Nedovic 12, Milan Macvan 11
Ukraine: Steven Burtt 10, Dmytro Gliebov (198-F-88, agency: Beo Basket) 8, Maksym Pustozvonov 8, Sergii Gladyr (196-G/F-88) 7


Tony Skinn pens deal with Budyvelnik - by Eurobasket News

Tony Skinn (191-G-83, college: George Mason) pens deal with Budyvelnik for the upcoming season. According to sportando.net the Nigerian National team player moves to Ukraine.
Few hours ago Skinn's Nigeria win the African battle in the opener of the Olympics 2012. The surprising team after the Qualifying Tournament overcame Tunisia 60:56 in the first game. Skinn nailed 7 points for the winning side.
In 2008-2009 he played for BCM Gravelines Dunkerque Grand Littoral (France-ProA, starting five) and after 28 games averaged 16.0ppg, 2.5rpg, 3.5apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 50.8%, 3PT: 41.8%, FT: 75.4%. In 2009-2010 moved to Carmatic Pistoia (Italy-Lega2, starting five) where his stats read 15.8ppg, 2.9rpg, 2.6apg, 2.2spg, FGP: 54.5%, 3PT: 30.2%, FT: 67.0%.
In 2010-2011 appeared for New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig (Germany-1.Bundesliga) and showed 10.5ppg, 2.9rpg, 3.2apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 53.0%, 3PT: 31.5%, FT: 66.3%. The last season Tony Skinn played for Ironi Ashkelon (Israel-Premier League, starting five) and had 10.6ppg, 2.7rpg, 2.9apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 52.7%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 74.7%.


Jarrod Jones joins BC Kyiv - by Eurobasket News

BC Kyiv bolstered their frontcourt. They added Jarrod Jones (205-F-90) to the squad. The forward will start his pro career in Ukraine. Jarrod Jones graduated from Ball State University in 2011. He tallied 14.8 points and 8.6 boards per game in his senior season. Jarrod Jones made it into All-MAC 2nd Team. The forward was also named into NABC Division I All-District 14 1st Team for the third season in a row. The forward was trumped MAC Freshman of the Year back in 2009. Jarrod Jones participated at Pre-NBA Draft Portsmouth Invitational Tournament this summer. He notched 7.3 points, 6.7 rebounds, 2.3 steals and 1.0 block per appearance.


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  UNITED KINGDOM   


U16 European Championship: Russia overcome England - by Eurobasket News

Russia U16 - England U16 72:69 (OT)

Russia capped their U16 European Championship campaign with victory. They knocked down England to seal the top spot in classification round Group G. Ilya Karpenkov (200-C-97) scored 20 points and grabbed 15 rebounds for Russia.
Russia led by a single point 16:15 after ten minutes. England stole the lead in the second period. They eked out a 27:26 halftime lead. Russia erased the deficit and levelled things up at 42 at the third break. Joseph Swindells (191-SF-96) and Ikponmwosa Oghide (96) put England in front 62:61 with 47 seconds remaining in regulation. But Alexander Gavrilov (192-PG-96) hit a free throw and sent the game into overtime. Ilya Karpenkov and Alexander Gavrilov then proved the difference late in the extra period hitting four points and sealing the victory for Russia. Aleksandr Zuev (193-PG-96) accounted for 15 points, while Pavel Afanasev (194-SG-96) netted 11 points for the winners. Joseph Swindells responded with 17 points for England. Ikponmwosa Oghide had 16 points in the loss.

Russia U16: Ilya Karpenkov 20+15 boards, Aleksandr Zuev 15, Pavel Afanasev 11
England U16: Joseph Swindells 17, Ikponmwosa Oghide 16


Olympics 2012: Russia storm to victory in opener - by Eurobasket News

Russia -Great Britain 95:75

Russia storm to victory in opener of the Olympics 2012. The team overcame the host of the campaign 95:75 in London.
Russia opened the game with 24-19 and erupted with 25-15 in the second frame. Great Britain seemed to play better in the third period and reduced the gap to 13 points with 10 minutes to go. Russia however did not allow the opponents to come closer and dominated the end of the game. Kirilenko nailed a three-pointer for 81:62, while Timofey Mozgov (215-C-86, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav) brought 83:64 on the board. Antonov poured in two for 87:66 and Kaun scored for 89:70. Sergey Monya (203-PF-83) increased the lead to 22 points and Freeland reduced to 92:72. Luol Deng and Pops Mensah-Bonsu (206-F-83, agency: SportsTalent, college: G.Washington) cut it to 92:75, while Khvostov closed the game at 95:75.
Andrei Kirilenko (209-F-81) exploded with 35 points for the winners and Shved collected 16 points and 13 assists. Vitaliy Fridzon (196-G-85, agency: Alti Sport) poured in 14, while Timofey Mozgov added 9. Luol Deng (206-F-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Duke) and Pops Mensah-Bonsu combined for 48 points in the losing effort and Joel Freeland (208-F-87) added 13 points and 10 rebounds.

Russia: Andrei Kirilenko 35, Shved 16+13 ast, Vitaliy Fridzon 14, Timofey Mozgov 9
Great Britain: Luol Deng 26, Pops Mensah-Bonsu 22, Joel Freeland 13+10 rebs


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

Standings - Metropolitan League

Metropolitan Standings
 1. Marne 12-5 
 2. Atenas 12-5 
 3. Goes 10-7 
 4. Larranaga 9-7 
 5. Cader 9-8 
 6. Capitol 9-8 
 7. Urunday Univ. 9-8 
 8. Guruyu Waston 7-10 
 9. Verdirrojo 6-10 
 10. Romis N. 6-12 
 11. Yale 4-13 

Regular Season: Round 19

Jul. 28: Marne - Capitol 89-85
Jul. 28: Romis N. - Cader 82-76
Jul. 28: Atenas - Larranaga 82-71
Jul. 28: Guruyu Waston - Goes 58-86
Jul. 29: Yale - Verdirrojo


Atenas and Marne advanced to the Metro second stage - by Hector Lopez

Atenas and Marne, the two Metro leaders won their games for the Metro league and both classify for the second stage to be played by the six best teams. Results for the 19th round:
Atenas 82 - Anthony Johnson (203-F-88, college: Fairfield) 22 points 13 rebounds 5 blocks
Larraaga 71 - Gordon James (198-F-79, college: Bridgeport) 20 points 13 rebounds 5 blocks
- - -
Marne 89 - Eric Freeman (205-C-79, agency: Gamble Sports Management, college: Ky Wesleyan) 20 points 7 rebounds 2 assists
Capitol 85 - Kevin Martin (208-C-83, college: Florida Gulf Coast) 30 points 15 rebounds
- - -
Goes 86 - Ivan Loriente (186-G-92) 29 points 9 rebounds 6 assists, Jimmy Boston (201-F-77, college: N.C.Central) 16 points 11 rebounds 3 blocks
Guruyu Waston 58 - Martavius Adams 15 poionts 9 rebounds
- - -
Romis Nelimar 82 - Devon Pearson (198-F-84, college: SMU) 17 points 7 rebounds
Cader 76 - Grady Reynolds (198-F-80, agency: Strategic Sports, college: St.John's) 30 points 17 rebounds 3 blocks


*****************************************************
  USA   


USA Men's Select Team Announced by Taiwan (34th William Jones Cup live on ESPN) - by Greg

Starting Five
#s#
Mychal Kearse
Kearse
Jermaine Barnes
Barnes
Curtis Marshall
Marshall
Marcus Melvin
Melvin
Scott VanderMeer
VanderMeer
#e#5
Mychal Kearse (6'5''-G-83) of Akita Northern Happinets Japan
Jermaine Barnes (6'5''-G/F-82) of Universal Phoenix Group LLC
Curtis Marshall (6'6''-G/F-83) of Lille Metropole Basket Clubs France
Marcus Melvin (6'8''-F-82) of La Union Formosa Argentina
Scott VanderMeer (7'0''-C-86) of Marinos de Anzoategui Venezuela
Josh Powell (6'9''-F-83) of Brujos de Guayama Puerto Rico
Wayne Arnold (6'4''-G-84) of Gwinnett Majic
Jordan Collins (6'10''-PF-82) of Mitteldeutscher BC Weissenfels Germany
Jermaine Dearman (6'8''-F/C-80) of Fukuoka Rizing Japan
Gerard Anderson (6'6''-F-87) of Los Angeles D-Fenders
Desmond Blue (6'11''-C-88) of Universal Phoenix Group LLC
Brad Reese (6'6''-F-88) of SLUNETA Usti nad Labem Czech Republic
James Justice (5'10''-G-89) of GIE Morrow Disciples


*****************************************************
  WILLIAM JONES CUP   


USA Men's Select Team Announced by Taiwan (34th William Jones Cup live on ESPN) - by Greg

Starting Five
#s#
Mychal Kearse
Kearse
Jermaine Barnes
Barnes
Curtis Marshall
Marshall
Marcus Melvin
Melvin
Scott VanderMeer
VanderMeer
#e#5
Mychal Kearse (6'5''-G-83) of Akita Northern Happinets Japan
Jermaine Barnes (6'5''-G/F-82) of Universal Phoenix Group LLC
Curtis Marshall (6'6''-G/F-83) of Lille Metropole Basket Clubs France
Marcus Melvin (6'8''-F-82) of La Union Formosa Argentina
Scott VanderMeer (7'0''-C-86) of Marinos de Anzoategui Venezuela
Josh Powell (6'9''-F-83) of Brujos de Guayama Puerto Rico
Wayne Arnold (6'4''-G-84) of Gwinnett Majic
Jordan Collins (6'10''-PF-82) of Mitteldeutscher BC Weissenfels Germany
Jermaine Dearman (6'8''-F/C-80) of Fukuoka Rizing Japan
Gerard Anderson (6'6''-F-87) of Los Angeles D-Fenders
Desmond Blue (6'11''-C-88) of Universal Phoenix Group LLC
Brad Reese (6'6''-F-88) of SLUNETA Usti nad Labem Czech Republic
James Justice (5'10''-G-89) of GIE Morrow Disciples



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

Women News


U18 Austria celebrates first victory Strumica, U18 Israel stays winless - by Eurobasket News

U18 AUSTRIA - U18 ISRAEL 75-57

Austria registered its first win at U18 EuroBasket Division B in Strumica. They handed 75-57 loss to Israel for 1-1 record in Preliminary Group A. Thanks to this win Austria has a nice chance to reach the Qualifying Round. At the other side, Israel dropped to 0-2 with no chance to advance. Sigrid Koizar (173-PG-95) led the winners with 16 points and 6 rebounds. Camilla Neumann (183-F-94) (9 rebs) and Aleksandra Novakovic (172-PG-94) (8 rebs) helped with 12 points each. In defeat, Nof Kedem (170-SG-94) was better than the others with 18 points and 5 rebs, and May Dayan (170-PG-94) scored 10 pts. Austria exploded in the second period and later had no troubles to keep the comfortable lead. Quarters: 22-20, 26-9, 12-12, 15-16. Both teams will take a rest today. On Monday, Austria will meet Hungary, while Israel will play against Portugal.

Austria: Sigrid Koizar 16+6 boards, Camilla Neumann 12+9 boards, Aleksandra Novakovic 12+8 boards
Israel: Nof Kedem 18+5 boards, May Dayan 10


*****************************************************
  BELARUS   


U18 Belarus hands first loss to U18 UK in Strumica - by Eurobasket News

U18 BELARUS - U18 UNITED KINGDOM 71-67

Belarus (2-0) booked a spot for the second stage of U18 EuroBasket Division B in Strumica. They grabbed 71-67 win against the UK and actually secured first place in Group C. UK fell to 1-1 and they will meet Latvia tomorrow in do-or-die game. The winner will take the second place in this pool and will advance to the next stage. Ksenija Voishal (182-F-94) collected 14 points and 5 rebounds in Belarus. Maryia Papova (186-PF-94) had 12 points, 7 rebs and 5 assists, while Emiliya Kulbitskaya (172-G-94) added 10 pts. In UK, Shequila Joseph (189-F-95) registered 16 points and 6 rebs, and Ashleigh Munns (180-G-94) scored 11 points. Harriet Ottewill-Soulsby (188-C-95) had 10 points and 7 boards. Quarters: 24-22, 15-14, 15-20, 17-11. All Group A teams will take a rest today. On Monday, Belarus will play against FYROM and UK will take on Latvia.

Belarus: Ksenija Voishal 14+5 boards, Maryia Papova 12+7 boards+5 as, Emiliya Kulbitskaya 10
UK: Shequila Joseph 16+6 boards, Ashleigh Munns 11, Harriet Ottewill-Soulsby 10+7 boards


*****************************************************
  BELGIUM   


First win for U18 Belgium and first loss for U18 Italy, nothing changed in Group D - by Eurobasket News

U18 BELGIUM - U18 ITALY 73-64

This game was just the formality as on Friday it was already clear that Italy will win the first place in Preliminary Group D, while Belgium will finish as the last ranked team of this pool. Belgium outplayed Italy on Saturday 73-64 for 1-2 score, while Italy faced with its first loss at U18 EuroBasket in Bucharest. Italy advanced to the Qualifying Round and will be transferred to Group F, together with 5 more teams. Four of them will reach the Quarterfinals. Belgium will continue in Group G (4 teams) and only winner will survive in Division A. Hind Ben Abdelkader (170-SF-95) pace Belgium with 29 points and 5 assists. Antonia Delaere (176-F/G-94) had 22 points and 8 rebs, while Heleen Adams (173-SF-94) netted 8 pts. In defeat, Marida Orazzo (175-F/G-94) (5 rebs) and Francesca Gambarini (170-PG-95) scored 14 pts each. Antonia Peresson (183-PG-95) had 9 points. Quarters: 15-14, 16-13, 20-12, 22-25. Championship continues on Monday.

Belgium: Hind Ben Abdelkader 29+5 as, Antonia Delaere 22+8 boards, Heleen Adams 8
Italy: Marida Orazzo 14+5 boards, Francesca Gambarini 14, Antonia Peresson 9


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


U18 Bulgaria jumps to 3-0 in Strumica - by Eurobasket News

U18 BULGARIA - U18 DENMARK 61-49

Bulgaria is very close to reach the second stage of U18 EuroBasket Division B in Strumica. Bulgaria was better than Denmark 61-49 on Saturday jumping got 3-0 record in Preliminary Group B. There are two more rounds to be played in this pool and it could happen that 3 wins will be enough for the Qualifying Round. Denmark slipped to 1-1 in this pool. Bulgaria made 15-point lead in the first half having no troubles to keep it for rest of the way. Borislava Hristova (180-F-96) had amazing game collecting 28 points and 5 rebounds. Iva Kostova (178-SG-94) had 17 points and 7 rebs, while Radostina Dimitrova (175-SF-94) helped with 6 points and 6 rebs. Maria Jespersen (179-G-94) answered with 11 points and 6 boards in loss. Simone Ceccardi (182-PF-95) (10 rebs) and Tine Randrup-Thomsen (177-PG-94) posted 8 and 7 pts respectively. Today, Bulgaria will play against Finland (1-1). Denmark will meet Norway.

Bulgaria: Borislava Hristova 28+5 boards, Iva Kostova 17+7 boards, Radostina Dimitrova 6+6 boards
Denmark: Maria Jespersen 11+6 boards, Simone Ceccardi 8+10 boards, Tine Randrup-Thomsen 7


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


Croatia outplays Slovakia 73-60, both teams advance to Qualifying Round at U18 EuroBasket - by Eurobasket News

U18 SLOVAKIA - U18 CROATIA 60-73

Croatia outgunned Slovakia 73-60 for the second place in Preliminary Group C of U18 EuroBasket in Bucharest. Croatia ended first phase with 2-1 record, while Slovakia slipped to third place with 1-2. Both teams advanced to the Qualifying Round and they will be transferred to Group F. Croatia shined in the second half to take the victory in this meeting. Quarters: 17-25, 22-13, 10-18, 11-17. Ruzica Dzankic (179-SF-94) came up with 22 points and 6 rebounds, and Ivana Tikvic (189-C-94) added 19 pts, plus 8 rebounds for her country. Lana Packovski (170-G-94) posted 17 points. At the other side, Barbora Balintova (176-G-94) delivered 21 points and Terezia Palenikova (170-G/F-95) had 18 pts, plus 5 rebs. Zofia Hruscakova (190-C-95) had double-double of 12 points and 11 rebs. Croatia will play against Serbia on Monday, while Slovakia will meet Italy. Group F counts 6 teams, but only 4 will advance to the Quarterfinals in Bucharest.

Slovakia: Barbora Balintova 21, Terezia Palenikova 18+5 boards, Zofia Hruscakova 12+11 boards
Croatia: Ruzica Dzankic 22+6 boards, Ivana Tikvic 19+8 boards, Lana Packovski 17


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


U18 Holland extends its winning streak in Bucharest - by Eurobasket News

U18 HOLLAND - U18 CZECH REPUBLIC 61-51

Holland finished Preliminary Round in Bucharest with perfect 3-0 record. They outplayed Czech Republic on Saturday 61-51 and won Group C. Of course, Holland advanced to the Qualifying Round of U18 EuroBasket and will continue in Group F. Czech Republic (0-3) will be moved to Group G, where they will fight for the survival in Division A. Kourtney Treffers (186-PF-94) had 17 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Lisanne de Jonge (181-F-95) had 15 points and 7 rebs, while Isabella Slim (181-F-95) added 13 pts, plus 8 boards. In defeat, Karolina Severova (182-PF-94) collected 16 points and 5 rebs. Kamila Hoskova (174-SF-95) (5 rebs) and Dominika Pohunkova (176-PG-94) netted 10 points each. Quarters: 20-11, 7-14, 21-15, 13-11. Holland will play against Slovenia on Monday. Group F contains 6 teams and 4 of them will reach the Quarterfinals. Czech Republic will play against Romania on Monday. Poland and Belgium are also participants of Group G, but only the winner will avoid relegation to Division B.

Holland: Kourtney Treffers 17+8 boarrds, Lisanne de Jonge 15+7 boards, Isabella Slim 13+8 boards
Czech Republic: Karolina Severova 16+5 boards, Kamila Hoskova 10+5 boards, Dominika Pohunkova 10


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


U18 Bulgaria jumps to 3-0 in Strumica - by Eurobasket News

U18 BULGARIA - U18 DENMARK 61-49

Bulgaria is very close to reach the second stage of U18 EuroBasket Division B in Strumica. Bulgaria was better than Denmark 61-49 on Saturday jumping got 3-0 record in Preliminary Group B. There are two more rounds to be played in this pool and it could happen that 3 wins will be enough for the Qualifying Round. Denmark slipped to 1-1 in this pool. Bulgaria made 15-point lead in the first half having no troubles to keep it for rest of the way. Borislava Hristova (180-F-96) had amazing game collecting 28 points and 5 rebounds. Iva Kostova (178-SG-94) had 17 points and 7 rebs, while Radostina Dimitrova (175-SF-94) helped with 6 points and 6 rebs. Maria Jespersen (179-G-94) answered with 11 points and 6 boards in loss. Simone Ceccardi (182-PF-95) (10 rebs) and Tine Randrup-Thomsen (177-PG-94) posted 8 and 7 pts respectively. Today, Bulgaria will play against Finland (1-1). Denmark will meet Norway.

Bulgaria: Borislava Hristova 28+5 boards, Iva Kostova 17+7 boards, Radostina Dimitrova 6+6 boards
Denmark: Maria Jespersen 11+6 boards, Simone Ceccardi 8+10 boards, Tine Randrup-Thomsen 7


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


European teams and Euroleague women players in the Olympics - by Diamadis Farmakis

Let's see how the European teams and some of the European players, started the Olympic Women's tournament in London.

France, Turkey and Russia won their games on the opening day of the Olympic women's tournament in London but the Czech Republic, Croatia and hosts Great Britain lost.

The French, bronze-medal winners at last year's EuroBasket Women in Poland and favorites for a medal in London, struggled for more than three quarters against the strong team of Brazil, but finally pulled away in the fourth period for a 73-58 win.

**Les Bleues only led 52-49 after the third quarter but outscored the South Americans 13-4 in the first five minutes of the fourth quarter and took command for good. Celine Dumerc (169-G-82) poured in a career-high 23 points to lead the French. The French are in Group B with the Brazilians, Great Britain, Australia, Canada and Russia.

**Last year's EuroBasket Women silver-medalists Turkey, who like France earned a trip to London via the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament for Women (OQTW), brushed aside Angola, 72-50. Tugba Palazoglu led Turkey's balanced scoring attack with 13 points.

**EuroBasket Women champions Russia had a real fight on their hands with upset-minded Canada but survived, 58-53. The Russians had a late run midway through the fourth quarter that propelled them to victory, with Becky Hammon scoring eight straight points in the victory.

**Croatia gave the four-time defending Olympic champions Team USA all they could handle for three quarters before fading in the fourth. Down 53-47, Croatia were outscored 28-9 in the last 10 minutes. Luca Ivankovic poured in 22 points for Croatia, who also got 17 from rising star Marija Vrsaljko.

**China surprised the Czech Republic, 66-57. The Czechs dug themselves an early hole, trailing by 12 points.


*****************************************************
  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U18   

W-Standings - Group A

Standings
Group E
1. France2-0
2. Turkey2-0
3. Russia1-1
4. Spain1-1
5. Sweden0-2
6. Greece0-2
Group F
1. Italy2-0
2. Holland2-0
3. Croatia1-1
4. Serbia1-1
5. Slovakia0-2
6. Slovenia0-2
Group G (Places 13-16)
1. Belgium0-0
2. Czech Rep.0-0
3. Poland0-0
4. Romania0-0

Preliminary Round: Round 3

A

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

B

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

C

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

D

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

Second Stage: Round 4

E

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

F

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

G

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


Standings - Division B - by Charles Ramsdell

Standings Div.B
Group A
1. Portugal2-0
2. Austria1-1
3. Hungary1-1
4. Israel0-2
Group B
1. Bulgaria4-0
2. Denmark2-1
3. Finland1-2
4. Norway1-2
5. Switzerlan.0-3
Group C
1. Belarus2-0
2. U.Kingdom1-1
3. Latvia1-1
4. FYR Macedo.0-2
Group D
1. Germany4-0
2. Lithuania2-1
3. Montenegro.1-2
4. Ukraine1-2
5. Scotland0-3

Preliminary Round: Round 4

B

Jul. 29: FIN - BUL 60-67
Jul. 29: DEN - NOR 57-48

D

Jul. 29: LTU - GER 55-70
Jul. 29: UKR - SCO 55-46

Preliminary Round: Round 5

A

Jul. 30: ISR - POR
Jul. 30: AUT - HUN

B

Jul. 30: NOR - FIN
Jul. 30: SUI - DEN

C

Jul. 30: LAT - ENG
Jul. 30: MKD - BLR

D

Jul. 30: SCO - LTU
Jul. 30: MNT - UKR


Division B: Day 3 of the Preliminary Round in Strumica - by Eurobasket News

Group A
Austria - Israel 75-57
Austria registered its first win at U18 EuroBasket Division B in Strumica. They handed 75-57 loss to Israel for 1-1 record in Preliminary Group A. Thanks to this win Austria has a nice chance to reach the Qualifying Round. At the other side, Israel dropped to 0-2 with no chance to advance. Sigrid Koizar (173-PG-95) led the winners with 16 points and 6 rebounds. Camilla Neumann (183-F-94) (9 rebs) and Aleksandra Novakovic (172-PG-94) (8 rebs) helped with 12 points each. In defeat, Nof Kedem (170-SG-94) was better than the others with 18 points and 5 rebs, and May Dayan (170-PG-94) scored 10 pts. Austria exploded in the second period and later had no troubles to keep the comfortable lead. Quarters: 22-20, 26-9, 12-12, 15-16. Both teams will take a rest today. On Monday, Austria will meet Hungary, while Israel will play against Portugal.

Hungary - Portugal 54-55
Portugal grabbed 55-54 thriller win against Hungary in Day Two of U18 EuroBasket Division B in Strumica. Portugal jumped to 2-0 after this victory and they already secured a first place in Group A. Of course, Portugal booked a ticket for the Qualifying Round. Hungary dropped to 1-1 and will meet Austria tomorrow in do-or-die game. The winner will reach the next stage. Joana Soeiro (170-PG-95) scored 15 points in victory and Ines Viana (164-PG-94) had 13 pts, plus 6 boards. Maria Kostourkova (188-C-97) netted 8 points. In defeat, Amadea Szamosi (190-F/C-94) shined with 12 points and 15 rebounds, while Regina Pap (187-F/C-94) (6 rebs) and Dora Nagy (167-PG-95) posted 10 pts each. Quarters: 14-6, 15-13, 12-15, 13-21. All Group A teams will take a rest today. There will be two games on Monday, the last day of the Preliminary Round: Portugal - Israel and Hungary - Austria.

Group B
Norway - Switzerland 54-51
Norway celebrated its first victory at U18 EuroBasket Division B in Strumica keeping its hopes for the next stage alive. They outsmarted Switzerland 54-51 for 1-1 record in Preliminary Group B. Switzerland dropped to 0-3 in this pool and they have no chance to advance. Stine Austgulen (177-G-94) stepped up for the winners with 21 points and 7 rebounds. Siri Granheim (180-F-94) had 12 points and 6 rebs, and Christina Muren (172-G-94) posted 8 pts in this victory. Switzerland got double-double of 19 points and 11 rebounds from Laura Perrenoud (189-C-94). Alexandra Koch (175-PG-94) was their second scorer with 14 pts and Gabriela Sakica (164-PG-97) had 8. Quarters: 18-16, 15-15, 13-12, 8-8. Norway will meet Denmark today in Scandinavian derby. Switzerland will take a rest.

Bulgaria - Denmark 61-49
Bulgaria is very close to reach the second stage of U18 EuroBasket Division B in Strumica. Bulgaria was better than Denmark 61-49 on Saturday jumping got 3-0 record in Preliminary Group B. There are two more rounds to be played in this pool and it could happen that 3 wins will be enough for the Qualifying Round. Denmark slipped to 1-1 in this pool. Bulgaria made 15-point lead in the first half having no troubles to keep it for rest of the way. Borislava Hristova (180-F-96) had amazing game collecting 28 points and 5 rebounds. Iva Kostova (178-SG-94) had 17 points and 7 rebs, while Radostina Dimitrova (175-SF-94) helped with 6 points and 6 rebs. Maria Jespersen (179-G-94) answered with 11 points and 6 boards in loss. Simone Ceccardi (182-PF-95) (10 rebs) and Tine Randrup-Thomsen (177-PG-94) posted 8 and 7 pts respectively. Today, Bulgaria will play against Finland (1-1). Denmark will meet Norway.

Group C
FYR Macedonia - Latvia 49-79
Latvia had no mercy for FYROM on Saturday. They celebrated huge 79-49 win for 1-1 record in Preliminary Group C of U18 EuroBasket Division B in Strumica. Latvia will have to beat UK on Monday to book a spot for the next stage. The host of this event dropped to 0-2 without chance to advance. Latvia was 15-points up at the halftime and later blasted FYROM in the last ten minutes of the game. Quarters: 8-18, 12-17, 16-13, 13-31. Kitija Laksa (180-G-96) scored 15 points in victory and Krista Bridina (174-PG-94) had one less. Ruta Veidere (188-C-94) added 13 points and 5 boards. In defeat, Aleksandra Stojanovska (178-SF-94) collected 9 points and 9 boards. Ivana Kmetovska (186-PF-95) (7 rebs) and Dragana Jolovik (184-F-94) stopped to 8 and 6 pts respectively. On Monday, FYROM will play against top-ranked Belarus.

Belarus - United Kingdom 71-67
Belarus (2-0) booked a spot for the second stage of U18 EuroBasket Division B in Strumica. They grabbed 71-67 win against the UK and actually secured first place in Group C. UK fell to 1-1 and they will meet Latvia tomorrow in do-or-die game. The winner will take the second place in this pool and will advance to the next stage. Ksenija Voishal (182-F-94) collected 14 points and 5 rebounds in Belarus. Maryia Papova (186-PF-94) had 12 points, 7 rebs and 5 assists, while Emiliya Kulbitskaya (172-G-94) added 10 pts. In UK, Shequila Joseph (189-F-95) registered 16 points and 6 rebs, and Ashleigh Munns (180-G-94) scored 11 points. Harriet Ottewill-Soulsby (188-C-95) had 10 points and 7 boards. Quarters: 24-22, 15-14, 15-20, 17-11. All Group A teams will take a rest today. On Monday, Belarus will play against FYROM and UK will take on Latvia.

Group D
Scotland - Montenegro 53-66
Montenegro recovered after two straight defeats and finally managed to grab the first win at U18 EuroBasket Division B in Strumica. Montenegro was better than Scotland 66-53 for 1-2 record in Preliminary Group D. At the other side, Scotland fell to 0-2. Scotland had a better start of this meeting, but Montenegro players exploded in the second half to register the first win in Strumica. Quarters: 20-11, 16-17, 8-16, 9-22. Kristina Rakovic (182-F/C-94) shined for Montenegro with 20 points and 12 rebounds. Majda Kolic (96) scored 16 points and Milena Djaletic (186-C-94) had 9 pts, plus 7 rebs. Hannah Peacock (190-C-95) had 14 pts and 7 rebounds in defeat. Sarah Thomson (177-G-95) (5 as) and Claire Paxton (184-C-94) (8 rebs) posted 11 and 10 pts respectively. Montenegro will take a rest today. Scotland will play against Ukraine.

Germany - Ukraine 60-53
Germany jumped to 3-0 record at U18 EuroBasket Division B in Strumica. They handed 60-53 loss to Ukraine and already secured a ticket for the next stage. At the other side, Ukraine fell to 0-2 and their chances for the next phase drastically decreased. Germany celebrated in this meeting thanks to wonderful Q4. They managed to keep Ukraine scoreless for the last ten minutes! Quarters: 18-12, 7-29, 22-12, 13-0. Levke Brodersen (168-G-94) led Germany with 14 points. Katharina Muller (181-F-94) (7 rebs) and Mary Mihalyi (164-PG-94) scored 10 points each. In defeat, Olga Krayevska (178-PG-94) posted 16 pts and Anastasiya Savytska (175-G-94) had 13. Miriam Uro-Nile (190-C-94) stopped to 10 pts and 6 rebs. Germany will play against Lithuania today and the winner will most probably end as No.1 of Group D. Ukraine will meet Scotland.


Division A, Day 3: Preliminary Round is over in Bucharest - by Eurobasket News

Group A
Poland - France 50-65
France is the winner of Preliminary Group A in Bucharest and of course advanced to the next stage. They outplayed Poland for perfect 3-0 record at U18 EuroBasket. Poland finished as the last ranked team of this pool (0-3) and will be transferred to Group G (13th-16th place). There, Poland will fight for the survival and only the winner of this group will avoid relegation to Division B. France created 15-point lead at the beginning, but Poland closed the gap to 6 pts at the halftime. Third quarter was totally leveled (9-9) and France shined in the last ten minutes (20-11) to take the victory in this meeting. Mamignan Toure (179-SG-94) and Valeriane Ayayi (184-F-94) (5 rebs) stepped up for France with 14 and 13 points respectively. Marieme Badiane (190-F/C-94) also was great adding 9 points and 15 rebs. Actually, she was the MVP of this meeting with valuation 19. In Poland, Katarzyna Jaworska (188-F/C-94) had 8 points and 8 rebounds. Karolina Puss (182-SF-94), Magdalena Wojdalska (185-SG-94) and Angelika Stankiewicz (170-SG-95) posted 8 pts each. On Monday, France will play against Greece in the Qualifying Group E. Poland will meet Belgium in the first game of Group G.

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

Group B
Romania - Russia 38-80
Russia advanced to the Qualifying Round of U18 EuroBasket in Bucharest. They destroyed host Romania 80-38 to end as the second ranked team of Preliminary Group B. Romania failed to reach the next stage as they finished with 0-3. Romania will fight fir the survival in Division A. Polina Fedorova (188-PF-95) shined for the winners with 12 points and 6 rebounds. Julia Gladkova (183-F-94) had 11 pts and 7 boards, while Yuliya Chaykovskaya (173-SG-95) added 10 pts. For the hosts, Iulia Raileanu (189-PF-95) delivered 11 points and Cristina Gavrila (172-G-95) had one less. Quarters: 7-20, 9-15, 12-23, 10-22. Russia will meet Spain on Monday (Group E). Romania will play against Czech Republic (Group G). Only the winner of that pool will survive in Division A.

Turkey - Greece 58-42
Turkey handed 58-42 loss to Greece winning the Preliminary Group B with perfect 3-0 record. Greece ended as No.3 in this pool with 1-2 score. Both teams advanced to the Qualifying Round of U18 EuroBasket in Bucharest and they will be transferred to Group E. That pool will have 6 teams, but only 4 of them will reach the Quarterfinals. Turkey took control on Greece from the beginning and never looked back. Quarters: 11-4, 17-13, 14-8, 16-17. Pelin Bilgic (173-G-94) scored 12 points in victory and Gizem Sezer (196-C-94) had 9 pts, plus 8 boards. Merve Aydin (174-PG-94) helped her country with 8 points and 6 boards. In defeat, Amanda Lovely (180-PF-94) collected 11 points and 9 rebounds. Vasiliki Tarla (181-SF-94) had 10 pts and 11 rebs, while Anna Stamolamprou (171-PG-95) also had 10 pts in this defeat. Championship continues on Monday, when Turkey will meet Sweden. Greece will take on France.

Group C
Slovakia - Croatia 60-73
Croatia outgunned Slovakia 73-60 for the second place in Preliminary Group C of U18 EuroBasket in Bucharest. Croatia ended first phase with 2-1 record, while Slovakia slipped to third place with 1-2. Both teams advanced to the Qualifying Round and they will be transferred to Group F. Croatia shined in the second half to take the victory in this meeting. Quarters: 17-25, 22-13, 10-18, 11-17. Ruzica Dzankic (179-SF-94) came up with 22 points and 6 rebounds, and Ivana Tikvic (189-C-94) added 19 pts, plus 8 rebounds for her country. Lana Packovski (170-G-94) posted 17 points. At the other side, Barbora Balintova (176-G-94) delivered 21 points and Terezia Palenikova (170-G/F-95) had 18 pts, plus 5 rebs. Zofia Hruscakova (190-C-95) had double-double of 12 points and 11 rebs. Croatia will play against Serbia on Monday, while Slovakia will meet Italy. Group F counts 6 teams, but only 4 will advance to the Quarterfinals in Bucharest.

Holland - Czech Republic 61-51
Holland finished Preliminary Round in Bucharest with perfect 3-0 record. They outplayed Czech Republic on Saturday 61-51 and won Group C. Of course, Holland advanced to the Qualifying Round of U18 EuroBasket and will continue in Group F. Czech Republic (0-3) will be moved to Group G, where they will fight for the survival in Division A. Kourtney Treffers (186-PF-94) had 17 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Lisanne de Jonge (181-F-95) had 15 points and 7 rebs, while Isabella Slim (181-F-95) added 13 pts, plus 8 boards. In defeat, Karolina Severova (182-PF-94) collected 16 points and 5 rebs. Kamila Hoskova (174-SF-95) (5 rebs) and Dominika Pohunkova (176-PG-94) netted 10 points each. Quarters: 20-11, 7-14, 21-15, 13-11. Holland will play against Slovenia on Monday. Group F contains 6 teams and 4 of them will reach the Quarterfinals. Czech Republic will play against Romania on Monday. Poland and Belgium are also participants of Group G, but only the winner will avoid relegation to Division B.

Group D
Belgium - Italy 73-64
This game was just the formality as on Friday it was already clear that Italy will win the first place in Preliminary Group D, while Belgium will finish as the last ranked team of this pool. Belgium outplayed Italy on Saturday 73-64 for 1-2 score, while Italy faced with its first loss at U18 EuroBasket in Bucharest. Italy advanced to the Qualifying Round and will be transferred to Group F, together with 5 more teams. Four of them will reach the Quarterfinals. Belgium will continue in Group G (4 teams) and only winner will survive in Division A. Hind Ben Abdelkader (170-SF-95) pace Belgium with 29 points and 5 assists. Antonia Delaere (176-F/G-94) had 22 points and 8 rebs, while Heleen Adams (173-SF-94) netted 8 pts. In defeat, Marida Orazzo (175-F/G-94) (5 rebs) and Francesca Gambarini (170-PG-95) scored 14 pts each. Antonia Peresson (183-PG-95) had 9 points. Quarters: 15-14, 16-13, 20-12, 22-25. Championship continues on Monday.

Slovenia - Serbia 56-66
It was a game for the second place in Preliminary Group D of U18 EuroBasket in Bucharest. Serbia managed to take it thanks to 56-66 win against Slovenia. Serbia finished this phase with 2-1 record, while Slovenia ended with 1-2 (3rd place) and both teams advanced to the Qualifying Round. They will continue in Group F, which contains 6 teams. Four of them will reach the Quarterfinals. Aleksandra Stanacev (167-PG-94) led Serbia with 16 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. Katarina Vuckovic (191-F/C-94) had 14 points and 6 rebs, and Natasa Kovacevic (187-F-94) added 11 pts, plus 6 boards in victory. Eva Lisec (191-C-95) answered with monster double-double in defeat: 18 points and 16 rebounds. Alina Gjerkes (177-F-94) and Barbara Sut (179-PF-94) (6 rebs) netted 10 and 8 points respectively. Quarters: 17-18, 13-20, 14-17, 12-11. All teams will take a rest today and will continue with games tomorrow. Serbia and Slovenia will play against Croatia and Holland, respectively.


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  FINLAND   

Div.1 Standings - by Eurobasket

Div.A Standings
 1. BC Nokia 16-2 
 2. HyPo 15-3 
 3. Puhuttaret 14-4 
 4. TuRi 14-4 
 5. Helmi Capitals 8-10 
 6. ToPo II 7-11 
 7. Pyrinto 6-12 
 8. Honka Akatemia 6-12 
 9. FoKoPo 3-15 
 10. EBT Akatemia 1-17 



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  FYR MACEDONIA   


Latvia keeps FYROM winless at U18 EuroBasket Division B - by Eurobasket News

U18 FYR MACEDONIA - U18 LATVIA 49-79

Latvia had no mercy for FYROM on Saturday. They celebrated huge 79-49 win for 1-1 record in Preliminary Group C of U18 EuroBasket Division B in Strumica. Latvia will have to beat UK on Monday to book a spot for the next stage. The host of this event dropped to 0-2 without chance to advance. Latvia was 15-points up at the halftime and later blasted FYROM in the last ten minutes of the game. Quarters: 8-18, 12-17, 16-13, 13-31. Kitija Laksa (180-G-96) scored 15 points in victory and Krista Bridina (174-PG-94) had one less. Ruta Veidere (188-C-94) added 13 points and 5 boards. In defeat, Aleksandra Stojanovska (178-SF-94) collected 9 points and 9 boards. Ivana Kmetovska (186-PF-95) (7 rebs) and Dragana Jolovik (184-F-94) stopped to 8 and 6 pts respectively. On Monday, FYROM will play against top-ranked Belarus.

FYROM: Aleksandra Stojanovska 9+9 boards, Ivana Kmetovska 8+7 boards, Dragana Jolovik 6
Latvia: Kitija Laksa 15, Krista Bridina 14, Ruta Veidere 13+5 boards


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  GERMANY   


Germany keeps Ukraine scoreless in Q4, wins third straight game at U18 EuroBasket Division B - by Eurobasket News

U18 GERMANY - U18 UKRAINE 60-53

Germany jumped to 3-0 record at U18 EuroBasket Division B in Strumica. They handed 60-53 loss to Ukraine and already secured a ticket for the next stage. At the other side, Ukraine fell to 0-2 and their chances for the next phase drastically decreased. Germany celebrated in this meeting thanks to wonderful Q4. They managed to keep Ukraine scoreless for the last ten minutes! Quarters: 18-12, 7-29, 22-12, 13-0. Levke Brodersen (168-G-94) led Germany with 14 points. Katharina Muller (181-F-94) (7 rebs) and Mary Mihalyi (164-PG-94) scored 10 points each. In defeat, Olga Krayevska (178-PG-94) posted 16 pts and Anastasiya Savytska (175-G-94) had 13. Miriam Uro-Nile (190-C-94) stopped to 10 pts and 6 rebs. Germany will play against Lithuania today and the winner will most probably end as No.1 of Group D. Ukraine will meet Scotland.

Germany: Levke Brodersen 14, Katharina Muller 10+7 boards, Mary Mihalyi 10
Ukraine: Olga Krayevska 16, Anastasiya Savytska 13, Miriam Uro-Nile 10+6 boards


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  GREECE   


U18 Turkey wins Group B, U18 Greece advances as No.3 - by Eurobasket News

U18 TURKEY - U18 GREECE 58-42

Turkey handed 58-42 loss to Greece winning the Preliminary Group B with perfect 3-0 record. Greece ended as No.3 in this pool with 1-2 score. Both teams advanced to the Qualifying Round of U18 EuroBasket in Bucharest and they will be transferred to Group E. That pool will have 6 teams, but only 4 of them will reach the Quarterfinals. Turkey took control on Greece from the beginning and never looked back. Quarters: 11-4, 17-13, 14-8, 16-17. Pelin Bilgic (173-G-94) scored 12 points in victory and Gizem Sezer (196-C-94) had 9 pts, plus 8 boards. Merve Aydin (174-PG-94) helped her country with 8 points and 6 boards. In defeat, Amanda Lovely (180-PF-94) collected 11 points and 9 rebounds. Vasiliki Tarla (181-SF-94) had 10 pts and 11 rebs, while Anna Stamolamprou (171-PG-95) also had 10 pts in this defeat. Championship continues on Monday, when Turkey will meet Sweden. Greece will take on France.

Turkey: Pelin Bilgic 12, Gizem Sezer 9+8 boards, Merve Aydin 8+6 boards
Greece: Amanda Lovely 11+9 boards, Vasiliki Tarla 10+11 boards, Anna Stamolamprou 10


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  HOLLAND   


U18 Holland extends its winning streak in Bucharest - by Eurobasket News

U18 HOLLAND - U18 CZECH REPUBLIC 61-51

Holland finished Preliminary Round in Bucharest with perfect 3-0 record. They outplayed Czech Republic on Saturday 61-51 and won Group C. Of course, Holland advanced to the Qualifying Round of U18 EuroBasket and will continue in Group F. Czech Republic (0-3) will be moved to Group G, where they will fight for the survival in Division A. Kourtney Treffers (186-PF-94) had 17 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Lisanne de Jonge (181-F-95) had 15 points and 7 rebs, while Isabella Slim (181-F-95) added 13 pts, plus 8 boards. In defeat, Karolina Severova (182-PF-94) collected 16 points and 5 rebs. Kamila Hoskova (174-SF-95) (5 rebs) and Dominika Pohunkova (176-PG-94) netted 10 points each. Quarters: 20-11, 7-14, 21-15, 13-11. Holland will play against Slovenia on Monday. Group F contains 6 teams and 4 of them will reach the Quarterfinals. Czech Republic will play against Romania on Monday. Poland and Belgium are also participants of Group G, but only the winner will avoid relegation to Division B.

Holland: Kourtney Treffers 17+8 boarrds, Lisanne de Jonge 15+7 boards, Isabella Slim 13+8 boards
Czech Republic: Karolina Severova 16+5 boards, Kamila Hoskova 10+5 boards, Dominika Pohunkova 10


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  HUNGARY   


U18 Portugal secures first place in Group A in Strumica - by Eurobasket News

U18 HUNGARY - U18 PORTUGAL 54-55

Portugal grabbed 55-54 thriller win against Hungary in Day Two of U18 EuroBasket Division B in Strumica. Portugal jumped to 2-0 after this victory and they already secured a first place in Group A. Of course, Portugal booked a ticket for the Qualifying Round. Hungary dropped to 1-1 and will meet Austria tomorrow in do-or-die game. The winner will reach the next stage. Joana Soeiro (170-PG-95) scored 15 points in victory and Ines Viana (164-PG-94) had 13 pts, plus 6 boards. Maria Kostourkova (188-C-97) netted 8 points. In defeat, Amadea Szamosi (190-F/C-94) shined with 12 points and 15 rebounds, while Regina Pap (187-F/C-94) (6 rebs) and Dora Nagy (167-PG-95) posted 10 pts each. Quarters: 14-6, 15-13, 12-15, 13-21. All Group A teams will take a rest today. There will be two games on Monday, the last day of the Preliminary Round: Portugal - Israel and Hungary - Austria.

Hungary: Amadea Szamosi 12+15 boards, Regina Pap 10+6 boards, Dora Nagy 10
Portugal: Joana Soeiro 15, Ines Viana 13+6 boards, Maria Kostourkova 8


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  ISRAEL   


U18 Austria celebrates first victory Strumica, U18 Israel stays winless - by Eurobasket News

U18 AUSTRIA - U18 ISRAEL 75-57

Austria registered its first win at U18 EuroBasket Division B in Strumica. They handed 75-57 loss to Israel for 1-1 record in Preliminary Group A. Thanks to this win Austria has a nice chance to reach the Qualifying Round. At the other side, Israel dropped to 0-2 with no chance to advance. Sigrid Koizar (173-PG-95) led the winners with 16 points and 6 rebounds. Camilla Neumann (183-F-94) (9 rebs) and Aleksandra Novakovic (172-PG-94) (8 rebs) helped with 12 points each. In defeat, Nof Kedem (170-SG-94) was better than the others with 18 points and 5 rebs, and May Dayan (170-PG-94) scored 10 pts. Austria exploded in the second period and later had no troubles to keep the comfortable lead. Quarters: 22-20, 26-9, 12-12, 15-16. Both teams will take a rest today. On Monday, Austria will meet Hungary, while Israel will play against Portugal.

Austria: Sigrid Koizar 16+6 boards, Camilla Neumann 12+9 boards, Aleksandra Novakovic 12+8 boards
Israel: Nof Kedem 18+5 boards, May Dayan 10


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  ITALY   


First win for U18 Belgium and first loss for U18 Italy, nothing changed in Group D - by Eurobasket News

U18 BELGIUM - U18 ITALY 73-64

This game was just the formality as on Friday it was already clear that Italy will win the first place in Preliminary Group D, while Belgium will finish as the last ranked team of this pool. Belgium outplayed Italy on Saturday 73-64 for 1-2 score, while Italy faced with its first loss at U18 EuroBasket in Bucharest. Italy advanced to the Qualifying Round and will be transferred to Group F, together with 5 more teams. Four of them will reach the Quarterfinals. Belgium will continue in Group G (4 teams) and only winner will survive in Division A. Hind Ben Abdelkader (170-SF-95) pace Belgium with 29 points and 5 assists. Antonia Delaere (176-F/G-94) had 22 points and 8 rebs, while Heleen Adams (173-SF-94) netted 8 pts. In defeat, Marida Orazzo (175-F/G-94) (5 rebs) and Francesca Gambarini (170-PG-95) scored 14 pts each. Antonia Peresson (183-PG-95) had 9 points. Quarters: 15-14, 16-13, 20-12, 22-25. Championship continues on Monday.

Belgium: Hind Ben Abdelkader 29+5 as, Antonia Delaere 22+8 boards, Heleen Adams 8
Italy: Marida Orazzo 14+5 boards, Francesca Gambarini 14, Antonia Peresson 9


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  LATVIA   


Latvia keeps FYROM winless at U18 EuroBasket Division B - by Eurobasket News

U18 FYR MACEDONIA - U18 LATVIA 49-79

Latvia had no mercy for FYROM on Saturday. They celebrated huge 79-49 win for 1-1 record in Preliminary Group C of U18 EuroBasket Division B in Strumica. Latvia will have to beat UK on Monday to book a spot for the next stage. The host of this event dropped to 0-2 without chance to advance. Latvia was 15-points up at the halftime and later blasted FYROM in the last ten minutes of the game. Quarters: 8-18, 12-17, 16-13, 13-31. Kitija Laksa (180-G-96) scored 15 points in victory and Krista Bridina (174-PG-94) had one less. Ruta Veidere (188-C-94) added 13 points and 5 boards. In defeat, Aleksandra Stojanovska (178-SF-94) collected 9 points and 9 boards. Ivana Kmetovska (186-PF-95) (7 rebs) and Dragana Jolovik (184-F-94) stopped to 8 and 6 pts respectively. On Monday, FYROM will play against top-ranked Belarus.

FYROM: Aleksandra Stojanovska 9+9 boards, Ivana Kmetovska 8+7 boards, Dragana Jolovik 6
Latvia: Kitija Laksa 15, Krista Bridina 14, Ruta Veidere 13+5 boards


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  MONTENEGRO   


U18 Montenegro finally takes first win in Strumica, U18 Scotland drops to 0-2 - by Eurobasket News

U18 SCOTLAND - U18 MONTENEGRO 53-66

Montenegro recovered after two straight defeats and finally managed to grab the first win at U18 EuroBasket Division B in Strumica. Montenegro was better than Scotland 66-53 for 1-2 record in Preliminary Group D. At the other side, Scotland fell to 0-2. Scotland had a better start of this meeting, but Montenegro players exploded in the second half to register the first win in Strumica. Quarters: 20-11, 16-17, 8-16, 9-22. Kristina Rakovic (182-F/C-94) shined for Montenegro with 20 points and 12 rebounds. Majda Kolic (96) scored 16 points and Milena Djaletic (186-C-94) had 9 pts, plus 7 rebs. Hannah Peacock (190-C-95) had 14 pts and 7 rebounds in defeat. Sarah Thomson (177-G-95) (5 as) and Claire Paxton (184-C-94) (8 rebs) posted 11 and 10 pts respectively. Montenegro will take a rest today. Scotland will play against Ukraine.

Scotland: Hannah Peacock 14+7 boards, Sarah Thomson 11+5 as, Claire Paxton 10+8 boards
Montenegro: Kristina Rakovic 20+12 boards, Majda Kolic 16, Milena Djaletic 9+7 boards


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  NORWAY   


U18 Norway outsmarts U18 Switzerland in Strumica, 54-51 - by Eurobasket News

U18 NORWAY - U18 SWITZERLAND 54-51

Norway celebrated its first victory at U18 EuroBasket Division B in Strumica keeping its hopes for the next stage alive. They outsmarted Switzerland 54-51 for 1-1 record in Preliminary Group B. Switzerland dropped to 0-3 in this pool and they have no chance to advance. Stine Austgulen (177-G-94) stepped up for the winners with 21 points and 7 rebounds. Siri Granheim (180-F-94) had 12 points and 6 rebs, and Christina Muren (172-G-94) posted 8 pts in this victory. Switzerland got double-double of 19 points and 11 rebounds from Laura Perrenoud (189-C-94). Alexandra Koch (175-PG-94) was their second scorer with 14 pts and Gabriela Sakica (164-PG-97) had 8. Quarters: 18-16, 15-15, 13-12, 8-8. Norway will meet Denmark today in Scandinavian derby. Switzerland will take a rest.

Norway: Stine Austgulen 21+7 boards, Siri Granheim 12+6 boards, Christina Muren 8
Switzerland: Laura Perrenoud 19+11 boards, Alexandra Koch 14, Gabriela Sakica 8


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  POLAND   


Rhe Talisa joins Gdynia - by Lukasz Lukaszewski

Talisa Rhea (180-G) is another player who will play in Basketball Investments Gdynia in 2012/2013 season. It is still unknown what name will have the club. After long time with sponsor Lotos club is still looking for a new partner. I am going to write more about that situation soon.

In the next season team will consist on young players like Talisa Rhea. She is 23 year old guard who graduated Seattle University this year. She was very important part of the team.
In 2011/2012 She averaged 14,1 ppg and 5,2 apg. Before that she have been playing for Oregon St. In that team she was also playing very important role. She will be second
American player in the team.

Before that club signed contract with young center Leah Kassing (190-C, college: Bradley). She also graduated university in this year. She have been playing for Bradley. In addition to that club have two polish small players: Natalia Malaszewska (178-G-84, agency: Promotex) and Agnieszka Sniezek (176-G-91). Basketball Investments extends deals with 3 former players: Magdalena Zietara (170-G/F-92), Kinga Bandyk (186-F/C-92) and Malgorzata Misiuk (184-F-91). Miroslaw Noculak who was working as polish TV expert for few last years will be head coach of the team.



Widzew Lodz is completing club's roster - by Lukasz Lukaszewski

Widzew Lodz is still completing new clubs roster. Having contracts with Katarzyna Bednarczyk (184-F-89, agency: Data Plus Group) and Malgorzata Chomicka (168-G-83) from MKS Tecza Leszno, club inks deal with another polish player Agata Chaliburda (188-F-88). What is more Widzew Lodz is negotiating with Natalia Mrozinska (191-F/C-84) and Marta Hylewska (190-C-89).

Agata Chaliburda is 24 year old forward. She has been playing for KSSSE AZS PWSZ Gorzow Wlkp. since she started playing basketball. She was not an important part of this team, but she noticed matches in EuroCup Women and Euroleague Women. In 2011/2012 season she averaged 1, 8 points and 2, 2 rebounds.

Club is negotiating with experienced polish center Natalia Mrozinska. Marta Hylewska from LKS Siemens AGD Lodz, Daria Dziwulska (179-F-92) and Anna Kolasa (178-F-92) are participating in team practices and will probably play for Widzew Lodz in next season.

Widzew Lodz has signed contracts with 7 players: Katarzyna Bednarczyk, Agata Chaliburda, Malgorzata Chomicka, Anna Tondel (183-F/C-77, agency: Promotex), Lidia Kopczyk (171-PG-88, agency: Promotex), Aleksandra Pawlak (189-F-84) and Magdalena Rzeznik (171-G-83).



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  PORTUGAL   


U18 Portugal secures first place in Group A in Strumica - by Eurobasket News

U18 HUNGARY - U18 PORTUGAL 54-55

Portugal grabbed 55-54 thriller win against Hungary in Day Two of U18 EuroBasket Division B in Strumica. Portugal jumped to 2-0 after this victory and they already secured a first place in Group A. Of course, Portugal booked a ticket for the Qualifying Round. Hungary dropped to 1-1 and will meet Austria tomorrow in do-or-die game. The winner will reach the next stage. Joana Soeiro (170-PG-95) scored 15 points in victory and Ines Viana (164-PG-94) had 13 pts, plus 6 boards. Maria Kostourkova (188-C-97) netted 8 points. In defeat, Amadea Szamosi (190-F/C-94) shined with 12 points and 15 rebounds, while Regina Pap (187-F/C-94) (6 rebs) and Dora Nagy (167-PG-95) posted 10 pts each. Quarters: 14-6, 15-13, 12-15, 13-21. All Group A teams will take a rest today. There will be two games on Monday, the last day of the Preliminary Round: Portugal - Israel and Hungary - Austria.

Hungary: Amadea Szamosi 12+15 boards, Regina Pap 10+6 boards, Dora Nagy 10
Portugal: Joana Soeiro 15, Ines Viana 13+6 boards, Maria Kostourkova 8


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  ROMANIA   


U18 Russia keeps U18 Romania winless in Bucharest, heads to Qualifying Round - by Eurobasket News

U18 ROMANIA - U18 RUSSIA 38-80

Russia advanced to the Qualifying Round of U18 EuroBasket in Bucharest. They destroyed host Romania 80-38 to end as the second ranked team of Preliminary Group B. Romania failed to reach the next stage as they finished with 0-3. Romania will fight fir the survival in Division A. Polina Fedorova (188-PF-95) shined for the winners with 12 points and 6 rebounds. Julia Gladkova (183-F-94) had 11 pts and 7 boards, while Yuliya Chaykovskaya (173-SG-95) added 10 pts. For the hosts, Iulia Raileanu (189-PF-95) delivered 11 points and Cristina Gavrila (172-G-95) had one less. Quarters: 7-20, 9-15, 12-23, 10-22. Russia will meet Spain on Monday (Group E). Romania will play against Czech Republic (Group G). Only the winner of that pool will survive in Division A.

Romania: Iulia Raileanu 11, Cristina Gavrila 10
Russia: Polina Fedorova 12+6 boards, Julia Gladkova 11+7 boards, Yuliya Chaykovskaya 10


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  RUSSIA   


U18 Russia keeps U18 Romania winless in Bucharest, heads to Qualifying Round - by Eurobasket News

U18 ROMANIA - U18 RUSSIA 38-80

Russia advanced to the Qualifying Round of U18 EuroBasket in Bucharest. They destroyed host Romania 80-38 to end as the second ranked team of Preliminary Group B. Romania failed to reach the next stage as they finished with 0-3. Romania will fight fir the survival in Division A. Polina Fedorova (188-PF-95) shined for the winners with 12 points and 6 rebounds. Julia Gladkova (183-F-94) had 11 pts and 7 boards, while Yuliya Chaykovskaya (173-SG-95) added 10 pts. For the hosts, Iulia Raileanu (189-PF-95) delivered 11 points and Cristina Gavrila (172-G-95) had one less. Quarters: 7-20, 9-15, 12-23, 10-22. Russia will meet Spain on Monday (Group E). Romania will play against Czech Republic (Group G). Only the winner of that pool will survive in Division A.

Romania: Iulia Raileanu 11, Cristina Gavrila 10
Russia: Polina Fedorova 12+6 boards, Julia Gladkova 11+7 boards, Yuliya Chaykovskaya 10


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  SCOTLAND   


U18 Montenegro finally takes first win in Strumica, U18 Scotland drops to 0-2 - by Eurobasket News

U18 SCOTLAND - U18 MONTENEGRO 53-66

Montenegro recovered after two straight defeats and finally managed to grab the first win at U18 EuroBasket Division B in Strumica. Montenegro was better than Scotland 66-53 for 1-2 record in Preliminary Group D. At the other side, Scotland fell to 0-2. Scotland had a better start of this meeting, but Montenegro players exploded in the second half to register the first win in Strumica. Quarters: 20-11, 16-17, 8-16, 9-22. Kristina Rakovic (182-F/C-94) shined for Montenegro with 20 points and 12 rebounds. Majda Kolic (96) scored 16 points and Milena Djaletic (186-C-94) had 9 pts, plus 7 rebs. Hannah Peacock (190-C-95) had 14 pts and 7 rebounds in defeat. Sarah Thomson (177-G-95) (5 as) and Claire Paxton (184-C-94) (8 rebs) posted 11 and 10 pts respectively. Montenegro will take a rest today. Scotland will play against Ukraine.

Scotland: Hannah Peacock 14+7 boards, Sarah Thomson 11+5 as, Claire Paxton 10+8 boards
Montenegro: Kristina Rakovic 20+12 boards, Majda Kolic 16, Milena Djaletic 9+7 boards


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  SERBIA   


U18 Serbia takes second place in Group D, U18 Slovenia is No.3 - by Eurobasket News

U18 SLOVENIA - U18 SERBIA 56-66

It was a game for the second place in Preliminary Group D of U18 EuroBasket in Bucharest. Serbia managed to take it thanks to 56-66 win against Slovenia. Serbia finished this phase with 2-1 record, while Slovenia ended with 1-2 (3rd place) and both teams advanced to the Qualifying Round. They will continue in Group F, which contains 6 teams. Four of them will reach the Quarterfinals. Aleksandra Stanacev (167-PG-94) led Serbia with 16 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. Katarina Vuckovic (191-F/C-94) had 14 points and 6 rebs, and Natasa Kovacevic (187-F-94) added 11 pts, plus 6 boards in victory. Eva Lisec (191-C-95) answered with monster double-double in defeat: 18 points and 16 rebounds. Alina Gjerkes (177-F-94) and Barbara Sut (179-PF-94) (6 rebs) netted 10 and 8 points respectively. Quarters: 17-18, 13-20, 14-17, 12-11. All teams will take a rest today and will continue with games tomorrow. Serbia and Slovenia will play against Croatia and Holland, respectively.

Slovenia: Eva Lisec 18+16 boards Alina Gjerkes 10, Barbara Sut 8+6 boards
Serbia: Aleksandra Stanacev 16+7 boards+5 as, Katarina Vuckovic 14+6 boards, Natasa Kovacevic 11+6 boards


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  SLOVAKIA   


Croatia outplays Slovakia 73-60, both teams advance to Qualifying Round at U18 EuroBasket - by Eurobasket News

U18 SLOVAKIA - U18 CROATIA 60-73

Croatia outgunned Slovakia 73-60 for the second place in Preliminary Group C of U18 EuroBasket in Bucharest. Croatia ended first phase with 2-1 record, while Slovakia slipped to third place with 1-2. Both teams advanced to the Qualifying Round and they will be transferred to Group F. Croatia shined in the second half to take the victory in this meeting. Quarters: 17-25, 22-13, 10-18, 11-17. Ruzica Dzankic (179-SF-94) came up with 22 points and 6 rebounds, and Ivana Tikvic (189-C-94) added 19 pts, plus 8 rebounds for her country. Lana Packovski (170-G-94) posted 17 points. At the other side, Barbora Balintova (176-G-94) delivered 21 points and Terezia Palenikova (170-G/F-95) had 18 pts, plus 5 rebs. Zofia Hruscakova (190-C-95) had double-double of 12 points and 11 rebs. Croatia will play against Serbia on Monday, while Slovakia will meet Italy. Group F counts 6 teams, but only 4 will advance to the Quarterfinals in Bucharest.

Slovakia: Barbora Balintova 21, Terezia Palenikova 18+5 boards, Zofia Hruscakova 12+11 boards
Croatia: Ruzica Dzankic 22+6 boards, Ivana Tikvic 19+8 boards, Lana Packovski 17


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  SLOVENIA   


U18 Serbia takes second place in Group D, U18 Slovenia is No.3 - by Eurobasket News

U18 SLOVENIA - U18 SERBIA 56-66

It was a game for the second place in Preliminary Group D of U18 EuroBasket in Bucharest. Serbia managed to take it thanks to 56-66 win against Slovenia. Serbia finished this phase with 2-1 record, while Slovenia ended with 1-2 (3rd place) and both teams advanced to the Qualifying Round. They will continue in Group F, which contains 6 teams. Four of them will reach the Quarterfinals. Aleksandra Stanacev (167-PG-94) led Serbia with 16 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. Katarina Vuckovic (191-F/C-94) had 14 points and 6 rebs, and Natasa Kovacevic (187-F-94) added 11 pts, plus 6 boards in victory. Eva Lisec (191-C-95) answered with monster double-double in defeat: 18 points and 16 rebounds. Alina Gjerkes (177-F-94) and Barbara Sut (179-PF-94) (6 rebs) netted 10 and 8 points respectively. Quarters: 17-18, 13-20, 14-17, 12-11. All teams will take a rest today and will continue with games tomorrow. Serbia and Slovenia will play against Croatia and Holland, respectively.

Slovenia: Eva Lisec 18+16 boards Alina Gjerkes 10, Barbara Sut 8+6 boards
Serbia: Aleksandra Stanacev 16+7 boards+5 as, Katarina Vuckovic 14+6 boards, Natasa Kovacevic 11+6 boards


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  SWITZERLAND   


U18 Norway outsmarts U18 Switzerland in Strumica, 54-51 - by Eurobasket News

U18 NORWAY - U18 SWITZERLAND 54-51

Norway celebrated its first victory at U18 EuroBasket Division B in Strumica keeping its hopes for the next stage alive. They outsmarted Switzerland 54-51 for 1-1 record in Preliminary Group B. Switzerland dropped to 0-3 in this pool and they have no chance to advance. Stine Austgulen (177-G-94) stepped up for the winners with 21 points and 7 rebounds. Siri Granheim (180-F-94) had 12 points and 6 rebs, and Christina Muren (172-G-94) posted 8 pts in this victory. Switzerland got double-double of 19 points and 11 rebounds from Laura Perrenoud (189-C-94). Alexandra Koch (175-PG-94) was their second scorer with 14 pts and Gabriela Sakica (164-PG-97) had 8. Quarters: 18-16, 15-15, 13-12, 8-8. Norway will meet Denmark today in Scandinavian derby. Switzerland will take a rest.

Norway: Stine Austgulen 21+7 boards, Siri Granheim 12+6 boards, Christina Muren 8
Switzerland: Laura Perrenoud 19+11 boards, Alexandra Koch 14, Gabriela Sakica 8


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  TURKEY   


U18 Turkey wins Group B, U18 Greece advances as No.3 - by Eurobasket News

U18 TURKEY - U18 GREECE 58-42

Turkey handed 58-42 loss to Greece winning the Preliminary Group B with perfect 3-0 record. Greece ended as No.3 in this pool with 1-2 score. Both teams advanced to the Qualifying Round of U18 EuroBasket in Bucharest and they will be transferred to Group E. That pool will have 6 teams, but only 4 of them will reach the Quarterfinals. Turkey took control on Greece from the beginning and never looked back. Quarters: 11-4, 17-13, 14-8, 16-17. Pelin Bilgic (173-G-94) scored 12 points in victory and Gizem Sezer (196-C-94) had 9 pts, plus 8 boards. Merve Aydin (174-PG-94) helped her country with 8 points and 6 boards. In defeat, Amanda Lovely (180-PF-94) collected 11 points and 9 rebounds. Vasiliki Tarla (181-SF-94) had 10 pts and 11 rebs, while Anna Stamolamprou (171-PG-95) also had 10 pts in this defeat. Championship continues on Monday, when Turkey will meet Sweden. Greece will take on France.

Turkey: Pelin Bilgic 12, Gizem Sezer 9+8 boards, Merve Aydin 8+6 boards
Greece: Amanda Lovely 11+9 boards, Vasiliki Tarla 10+11 boards, Anna Stamolamprou 10


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  UKRAINE   


Germany keeps Ukraine scoreless in Q4, wins third straight game at U18 EuroBasket Division B - by Eurobasket News

U18 GERMANY - U18 UKRAINE 60-53

Germany jumped to 3-0 record at U18 EuroBasket Division B in Strumica. They handed 60-53 loss to Ukraine and already secured a ticket for the next stage. At the other side, Ukraine fell to 0-2 and their chances for the next phase drastically decreased. Germany celebrated in this meeting thanks to wonderful Q4. They managed to keep Ukraine scoreless for the last ten minutes! Quarters: 18-12, 7-29, 22-12, 13-0. Levke Brodersen (168-G-94) led Germany with 14 points. Katharina Muller (181-F-94) (7 rebs) and Mary Mihalyi (164-PG-94) scored 10 points each. In defeat, Olga Krayevska (178-PG-94) posted 16 pts and Anastasiya Savytska (175-G-94) had 13. Miriam Uro-Nile (190-C-94) stopped to 10 pts and 6 rebs. Germany will play against Lithuania today and the winner will most probably end as No.1 of Group D. Ukraine will meet Scotland.

Germany: Levke Brodersen 14, Katharina Muller 10+7 boards, Mary Mihalyi 10
Ukraine: Olga Krayevska 16, Anastasiya Savytska 13, Miriam Uro-Nile 10+6 boards


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  UNITED KINGDOM   


U18 Belarus hands first loss to U18 UK in Strumica - by Eurobasket News

U18 BELARUS - U18 UNITED KINGDOM 71-67

Belarus (2-0) booked a spot for the second stage of U18 EuroBasket Division B in Strumica. They grabbed 71-67 win against the UK and actually secured first place in Group C. UK fell to 1-1 and they will meet Latvia tomorrow in do-or-die game. The winner will take the second place in this pool and will advance to the next stage. Ksenija Voishal (182-F-94) collected 14 points and 5 rebounds in Belarus. Maryia Papova (186-PF-94) had 12 points, 7 rebs and 5 assists, while Emiliya Kulbitskaya (172-G-94) added 10 pts. In UK, Shequila Joseph (189-F-95) registered 16 points and 6 rebs, and Ashleigh Munns (180-G-94) scored 11 points. Harriet Ottewill-Soulsby (188-C-95) had 10 points and 7 boards. Quarters: 24-22, 15-14, 15-20, 17-11. All Group A teams will take a rest today. On Monday, Belarus will play against FYROM and UK will take on Latvia.

Belarus: Ksenija Voishal 14+5 boards, Maryia Papova 12+7 boards+5 as, Emiliya Kulbitskaya 10
UK: Shequila Joseph 16+6 boards, Ashleigh Munns 11, Harriet Ottewill-Soulsby 10+7 boards