EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 7/9/2012 1:04:01 AM

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Men News

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  AFRICAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U18   



Afrobasket U18M Qualifiers: Cote dIvoire picks ticket - by Olusegun Ikuesan

Cote dIvoire U18 national men team at the weekend picked FIBA Africa Zone-3 sole ticket to the 2012 Afrobasket for U18 Men with a 70-30 points whitewashing of Liberia in the closing day of the qualifiers at the Palais des Sports Treichville.

The last game of the qualifying series which drew a large crowd saw the young Elephant winning in all four quarters by 13-03, 13-09, 18-07 and 26-11 points saw the Cote dIvoire winning the series with a 5-1 record for 11 cumulative points to top the qualifiers.

In the earlier game played in the closing day saw Ghana handling Nigeria a 69-58 points defeat in a game that the Nigerian side had under control in the first half with a six points advantage of 37-31 (15-11, 22-20).

The Ghanaian side who are taking part in any age grade competition on the continent soon turn the table against the Nigerian at the resumption of play in the third quarter forcing the Nigerian side to make series of turn-over ending the third quarter by 12-08 points in Ghana favour.

With a two points deficit going into the last quarter Ghana continue it offensive build-up beating Nigeria roundly on the floor winning the last and decisive quarter in grand style to the admiration of the fans by 26-13 points to push Nigeria to the third spot on the log while Liberia occupies the rear.


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  ARGENTINA   


U17 World Championship: Canada finished 5th in Kaunas - by Eurobasket News

Canada U17-Argentina U17 84:79

Canada finished 5th in Kaunas after the victory over Argentina in their last game. Canada sealed a 84:79 victory in the game for the 5-6 places.
It was a productive first period as Canada grabbed 32:22 at the end of the first 10 minutes. Argentina woke up in the second frame and after a fantastic run Haag tied the game at 40:40. Moreover he scored another free throw for the lead in the game, but Patrick Steeves (201-F/G-95) closed the half at 44:41. Canada looked better in the third period and after 22-16 grabbed 66:57 advantage. Zabo made free throws for 80:72 with 3 minutes to go, while Rodrigo Haag (193-SG-95) and made reduced to 5 points. The teams exchanged several more shots as the board remained the final difference at 5 points.
Kevin-Mbezela Zabo (186-G-95) top-scored for the winners with 26 points, while Patrick Steeves netted 14. Tanveer Bhullar (218-C-95) and Marial Shayok (196-SG-95) followed them with 12 points each. Gabriel Deck (202-C/F-95) answered with 26 points for Argentina and Alvaro Merlo (182-PG-95) notched 16. Guillermo Lopez (198-F-95) scored 13, whilst Rodrigo Haag added 11.

Canada U17: Kevin-Mbezela Zabo 26, Patrick Steeves 14, Tanveer Bhullar 12, Marial Shayok 12
Argentina U17: Gabriel Deck 26, Alvaro Merlo 16, Guillermo Lopez 13, Rodrigo Haag 11


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  AUSTRALIA   


U17 World Championship: USA defended the title - by Eurobasket News

USA U17-Australia U17 95:62

USA defended the title at the U17 World Championship. The winners overcame Australia 95:62 in the Final game of the competition.
Pre-tournament favorites USA has looked unstoppable all tournament long and rightfully reached the trophy.
USA started with 22-14 and never looked behind. They added 16-10 in the second period as FRANKAMP brought 38:24. Dante Exum (6'4''-PG-95) and Justice Winslow (6'6''-F-96) gave their teams the first points in the second half and later USA added 26-19 in the third quarter. FRANKAMP scored for 66:43 early in the fourth, while Dante Exum responded for 68:49. After NUNN and NDUKA-ANYA free throws Conner Frankamp (6'1''-G-95) nailed three for 86:59 and then Jahlil Okafor-Benton (6'11''-C-95) delivered two for 88:61. Justice Winslow scored another two from the free throw line, while DOMINGO scored three for 93:62. Jahlil Okafor-Benton made the final successful shot for the winners.
Conner Frankamp top-scored for the winners with 22 points and Jahlil Okafor-Benton nailed 17. Justice Winslow delivered 13, while Jabari Parker (6'8''-F-95) notched 12. Dante Exum ended up with 21 points and Nicholas Duncan (6'8''-F-95) scored 10 in defeat.
In 2010 USA U17 became the winner of the U17 World Championship in Hamburg, Germany. The favorites overcame European best team Poland U17 111:80.

USA U17: Conner Frankamp 22, Jahlil Okafor-Benton 17, Justice Winslow 13, Jabari Parker 12
Australia U17: Dante Exum 21, Nicholas Duncan 10


Australia lost to China and Tunisia at Stankovic Cup - by Eurobasket News

Australia lost to China and Tunisia at Stankovic Cup to finish third at the tournament.
In Day 2 China edged Australia 67:44. Zhu Fangyu brought his dozen points as the highest scorer for China. Zhang ZhaoXuo collected 8 points and 10 rebounds, while 10 Wang Zhelin had 9 points and as many rebounds.Todd Blanchfield (200-F-91) led the Australians with 9 points. Liam Norton (187-G-83), Clint Steindl (201-F/G-89, college: St.Mary's, CA) and Cameron Bairstow added 6 points each.
In Day 3 Australia lost to Tunisia 60:62. The team Australia grabbed 14:12 after the opening quarter and increased to 32:29 at the halftime. Moreover Australia added 16-13 in the third period for a six-point edge at the final change, 48:42. Tunisia meanwhile replied with 20-12 in the final period to seal the victory.
Macram Romdhane top-scored for the winners with 24 points and 12 rebounds. Clint Steindl led the Australians with 11 points, while Hugh Greenwood also added 11. Todd Blanchfield added 9 points, while Jason Cadee (186-G-91) had six points, seven assists and three steals.


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  BOSNIA   


Igokea signs forward Branko Jorovic - by Nicky Vasic

Bosnian runners-up KK Igokea have strengthened their squad for next years Adriatic League by adding experienced Serbian forward Branko Jorovic (205-F-81, agency: Beo Basket). Jorovic joins from German BBL team New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig where he last season averaged 10.2 points, 3.5 rebounds and 2.3 assists in 33 games he played. Before coming to Germany Jorovic spent few season in Serbia, donning the colors of Crvena zvezda, Radnicki Kragujevac and Borac Cacak.


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  BRAZIL   

Standings - Paulista, Carioca, Minas G. leagues

Paulista Standings
 1. Rio Claro 16-4 
 2. Metodista/S.B. 15-5 
 3. America 14-6 
 4. Suzano 13-7 
 5. Inter Santos 12-8 
 6. UNIFADRA 12-8 
 7. Sao Caetano 11-9 
 8. Jacarei 11-9 
 9. Abdala 4-16 
 10. Americana 2-18 
 11. Taubate 0-20 



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  CANADA   


Report: Raptors, Gray agree on two-year deal - by Eurobasket News

The Toronto Raptors have re-signed centre Aaron Gray (7'0''-C-84, college: Pittsburgh) to a two-year contract according to Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo! Sports.

Gray was signed to a one-year deal by the Raptors last summer and played in 49 games, with 40 starts.

A second-round pick in 2007, Gray averaged 3.9 points, 5.7 rebounds and 16.6 minutes last season for the Raptors.

The seven-foot, 270-pound centre made $2.5 million last year. He is expected to backup incoming rookie Jonas Valanciunas (6'11''-C-92).

Courtesy of www.sportsnet.ca


U17 World Championship: Canada finished 5th in Kaunas - by Eurobasket News

Canada U17-Argentina U17 84:79

Canada finished 5th in Kaunas after the victory over Argentina in their last game. Canada sealed a 84:79 victory in the game for the 5-6 places.
It was a productive first period as Canada grabbed 32:22 at the end of the first 10 minutes. Argentina woke up in the second frame and after a fantastic run Haag tied the game at 40:40. Moreover he scored another free throw for the lead in the game, but Patrick Steeves (201-F/G-95) closed the half at 44:41. Canada looked better in the third period and after 22-16 grabbed 66:57 advantage. Zabo made free throws for 80:72 with 3 minutes to go, while Rodrigo Haag (193-SG-95) and made reduced to 5 points. The teams exchanged several more shots as the board remained the final difference at 5 points.
Kevin-Mbezela Zabo (186-G-95) top-scored for the winners with 26 points, while Patrick Steeves netted 14. Tanveer Bhullar (218-C-95) and Marial Shayok (196-SG-95) followed them with 12 points each. Gabriel Deck (202-C/F-95) answered with 26 points for Argentina and Alvaro Merlo (182-PG-95) notched 16. Guillermo Lopez (198-F-95) scored 13, whilst Rodrigo Haag added 11.

Canada U17: Kevin-Mbezela Zabo 26, Patrick Steeves 14, Tanveer Bhullar 12, Marial Shayok 12
Argentina U17: Gabriel Deck 26, Alvaro Merlo 16, Guillermo Lopez 13, Rodrigo Haag 11


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  CHINA   


China Defeats the Czech Republic to Finish Seventh at World U-17 Tourney - by Arthur Volbert

China defeated the Czech Republic 77-70 today to finish seventh in the FIBA World Under-17 Basketball Championship. This was exactly the same place that the Guo Ailun-led U-17 tournament finished at the tournament two years ago. This, at the least, shows that the progress made by the earlier team is being maintained and that China can now be competitive with any of the top teams in the world, exept the United States.

China had a fallow period in the 2000's as it shifted from its own unique way of playing basketball to the way the rest of the world plays the game. China's earlier teams could shoot but were non-competitive in other aspects of the game, especially rebounding and defense. Now we will begin to find out whether China's progress will continue or whether this is the permanent level that China has reached. Is China just beginning to touch the talents of its billion-plus population which may have some advantages over European populations in quickness and jumping ability though disadvantages in bulk and arm-length?

At this level, China will eventually win a medal when the team is both good and lucky. Or, if it continues its baketball progress, China could rise to the level of the former Soviet Union and Yugoslavia, which consistently won medals at world tournaments. It is even possible that China could rise to the level of the United States, and the world could have two great basketball powers. The future will tell.

Zhou Qi led China today with 16 points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals and 4 blocks and could very well develop into a world class center and end up in the NBA. One reason China is experimenting with using Wang Zhelin at power forward is that he and Zhou Qi could one day be an impressive front-court duo. Wang seems the better offensive player while Zhou excels at shot-blocking and defense.

Wang Zhengbo (187-G-96), a 187 cm guard listed as born in October 1996, was China's second most effective player today. He had 16 points on 6 of 8 shooting and grabbed 4 rebounds. Liu Bo also shot 6 of 8 and had 13 points and 5 rebounds in 38 minutes, the most played by any Chinese player. Zhao Jiwei returned to form with 13 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists, 4 steals and 4 turnovers. Han Delong had 8 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists. Guo Xiaopeng had 7 points, 3 rebounds, 4 assists and 2 steals.

China and the Czechs each had 34 rebounds. China had 17 turnovers to 13 for the Czech Republic. China made 47 percent of its field goals to 41 percent for the Czechs. China trailed 25-20 after one quarter but led 39-38 at the half. The score was tied 59-59 after three quarters.



Link to box score:

http://kaunas2012.fiba.com/pages/eng/fe/12/fu17wc/men/p/eid/6228/gid/A/grid/43/rid/9169/sid/6228/game.html




U17 World Championship: China beat Czech Republic to clinch 7th position - by Eurobasket News

China U17 - Czech Republic U17 77:70

China ended their U17 World Championship campaign with victory. They defeated Czech Republic to clinch the 7th place. Wang Zhengbo (187-G-96) and Zhou Qi (216-C-96) came up with 16 points each for the winners.
Czech Republic knocked down 25 points in the first quarter to take a 5-point lead. But China easily denied the deficit and pulled ahead for a 39:38 halftime lead. Czech Republic bounced back in the third quarter. They levelled things up at 59 with one period remaining. But the final quarter belonged to the Asian team. China held their opponents to 11 points in the fourth frame and sealed the victory at the end. Liu Bo (203-F-96) and Zhao JiWei (185-G-95) accounted for 13 points each in the victory. Adam Pechacek (207-C-95) answered with 16 points for Czech Republic. Radovan Kouril (185-PG-95) finished with 13 points, 12 assists and 7 rebounds in the loss.

China U17: Wang Zhengbo 16, Zhou Qi 16, Liu Bo 13, Zhao JiWei 13
Czech Republic U17: Adam Pechacek 16, Radovan Kouril 13+12 assists


China advanced to the Final of Stankovic Cup - by Eurobasket News

China advanced to the Final of Stankovic Cup as they won all three games of the first round.
In Day 1 China rolled over Tunisia 85:54. Jianlian Yi (213-F/C-87) paced all the winners with 22 points.
In Day 2 China edged Australia 67:44. Zhu Fangyu brought his dozen points as the highest scorer for China. Zhang ZhaoXuo collected 8 points and 10 rebounds, while 10 Wang Zhelin had 9 points and as many rebounds. Todd Blanchfield (200-F-91) of the Townsville Crocodiles led the Australians with 9 points. Liam Norton (187-G-83), Clint Steindl and Cameron Bairstow added 6 points each.
Tonight China overcame Russia University team 73:67. The latter grabbed 20-13 in the opening period, but failed later in the game. China responded with 24-12 in the second frame and added 16-14 in the third period. Russia came up with 21-20 in the last quarter but it was not enough to upset the favorites. Jianlian Yi erupted with 28 points and 17 rebounds. Ivan Strebkov (190-PG-91) had 13 points in the losing effort.


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  CROATIA   


U17 World Championship: Croatia earn Bronze - by Eurobasket News

Croatia U17 - Spain U17 93:61

Croatia stepped on the podium at the U17 World Championship. They denied Spain in the consolation final tonight to claim Bronze. Mario Hezonja (202-G/F-95) scored 23 points, grabbed 8 rebounds and issued 4 assists to lead the winners.
Croatia led by four points ten minutes into the game 15:11. They stretched the margin in the second frame. Croats went on a massive 28:12 run to take a comfortable 43:23 halftime lead. Croatia did not loosen the grasp in the second half. They piled up a 22-point lead at the final break. Croatia poured in 27 points in the fourth quarter to seal a confident win at the end. Paolo Marinelli (190-G-95) and Karlo Zganec (205-C/F-95) delivered 13 points each for Croatia. Bosnjak and Gabric added 11 points each in the victory. Ilimane Diop (210-C-95) answered with 13 points for Spain. Agusti Sans (195-SG-95) netted 11 points in the losing case.

Croatia U17: Mario Hezonja 23, Paolo Marinelli 13, Karlo Zganec 13
Spain U17: Ilimane Diop 13, Agusti Sans 11


Cibona close to sign Marko Jagodic Kuridza, according to report - by Eurobasket News

Cibona is close to sign center Marko Jagodic Kuridza (204-C-87), according to Croatian media (Kosarka.hr). Reportedly, the player should ink a 3-year deal. Jagodic Kuridza was MVP of the Bosnian championship last season. He had 19.8 ppg, 11.9 rpg, 2.8 spg and 1.1 bpg for 33 games in D1. Capljina finished regular season as No.5 with 3-7 record and was close to reach the Playoffs. Marko Jagodic Kuridza was named Eurobasket.com All-Bosnia and Herzegovina League Player of the Year -12. In 2010/11 season, Jagodic Kuridza played for Borac Nektar. There he had 10.4 ppg, 6.9 rpg and 2.1 apg for 29 games. In 2009/10, the player changed three teams. He started with Novi Sad Panonska Banka, later moved to Capljina and finally ended the season with Borac Nektar. In the past, he also played for Spartak Subotica.


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  CZECH REPUBLIC   


U17 World Championship: China beat Czech Republic to clinch 7th position - by Eurobasket News

China U17 - Czech Republic U17 77:70

China ended their U17 World Championship campaign with victory. They defeated Czech Republic to clinch the 7th place. Wang Zhengbo (187-G-96) and Zhou Qi (216-C-96) came up with 16 points each for the winners.
Czech Republic knocked down 25 points in the first quarter to take a 5-point lead. But China easily denied the deficit and pulled ahead for a 39:38 halftime lead. Czech Republic bounced back in the third quarter. They levelled things up at 59 with one period remaining. But the final quarter belonged to the Asian team. China held their opponents to 11 points in the fourth frame and sealed the victory at the end. Liu Bo (203-F-96) and Zhao JiWei (185-G-95) accounted for 13 points each in the victory. Adam Pechacek (207-C-95) answered with 16 points for Czech Republic. Radovan Kouril (185-PG-95) finished with 13 points, 12 assists and 7 rebounds in the loss.

China U17: Wang Zhengbo 16, Zhou Qi 16, Liu Bo 13, Zhao JiWei 13
Czech Republic U17: Adam Pechacek 16, Radovan Kouril 13+12 assists


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  DOMINICAN REPUBLIC   


Olympic Qualifying Tournament: Diogu sends Nigeria to London - by Eurobasket News

Nigeria-Dominican Republic 88:73

Diogu sends Nigeria to London as they have qualified for the Olympic Games. The African team overcame Dominican Republic 88:73 in the game for the last ticket from the Olympic Qualifying Tournament.
Nigeria opened the game with a 24-18 surge in the opening period. They added 23-21 in the second frame and had 47:39 lead at the halftime.
The third quarter belonged to Dominican Republic that started to reduce the gap. Francisco Garcia (201-F/G-81, college: Louisville) struck a trademark triple and the three-quarter time score was 59:57 to Nigeria. The Dominicans were not done and a Coronado triple followed by two Baez free throws squared the game with 5 minutes to go. Nigeria however dominated the rest of the game. They pushed the tempo for good and due to 29-16 in the last stanza won the game and punched the ticket to London.
Ike Diogu (208-F/C-83, college: Arizona St.) erupted with 25 points and 10 rebounds, while Al-Farouq Aminu (206-F-90, college: Wake Forest) notched 14. Derrick Obasohan (198-F-81, agency: Beo Basket, college: Texas Arlington) posted 11 and Alade Aminu (210-C-87, college: Georgia Tech) added 9. Francisco Garcia ended up with 17 points in the losing effort, whilst Jack Michael Martinez (201-F-81, agency: Paris Global Sports) followed him with 16. Baez poured in 13 and Alfred Horford (208-F/C-86, college: Florida) as well as Gil added 12 apiece.

Nigeria: Ike Diogu 25+10 rebs, Al-Farouq Aminu 14, Derrick Obasohan 11, Alade Aminu 9
Dominican Republic: Francisco Garcia 17, Jack Michael Martinez 16, Baez 13, Alfred Horford 12, Gil 12


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  ESTONIA   


Lithuania topple Estonia at Baltic Cup - by Eurobasket News

Lithuania U16 - Estonia U16 88:49

Lithuania gained the first win at the 2012 Baltic Cup. They toppled Estonian counterparts to improve at 1-1 record. Antanas Krimelis scored 20 points to lead the winners. Estonia fell at 0-2 record after the loss.
Lithuania cleared off in the opening quarter. They posted a 27:12 lead ten minutes into the game. Estonia stopped the bleeding in the second frame. The hosts cut the deficit to 11 points at halftime 41:30. But Lithuania went on a 27:13 rally in the third quarter to ensure a 25-point lead before the fourth frame. Lithuania did not slow down in the fourth quarter and raced to a comfortable win at the end. Tautvydas Paliukenas finished with 11 points, while Domantas Sabonis had 10 points and 13 rebounds for the winners. Jaagup Russak (179-G-96) answered with 19 points for Estonia. Karl-Robin Jurjens (199-F-96) accounted for 13 points in the loss.

Lithuania U16: Antanas Krimelis 20, Tautvydas Paliukenas 11, Domantas Sabonis 10+13 boards
Estonia U16: Jaagup Russak 19, Karl-Robin Jurjens 13


Baltic Cup U18: Lithuania overwhelm Estonia in Riga - by Eurobasket News

Lithuania U18-Estonia U18 103:67

Lithuania overwhelm Estonia in Riga at the start of the Baltic Cup U18. Lithuania U18 scored three digit against Estonia U18 in a 103:67 win.
Lithuania erupted in the opening period and grabbed 33-21 lead after the first 10 minutes of the game. Lithuania added 26-16 in the second frame and took 59:37 after the end of the first half. The second half also belonged to the favourites of the game. Lithuanian won the third period 24-16 and finished the game with 20-14 in the last stanza.
Marius Grigonis (198-F-94) top-scored for the winners with 14 points, while Tomas Dimsa had 13. Tautvydas Jodelis (194-F/G-94) produced 11 points, whilst Justas Tamulis (194-G-94) and Simas Saupys delivered 10 apiece. Hendrik Ruut (190-G-94) ended up with 15 points and Martin Jurtom (198-F-94) scored 13 in defeat.
In Day 2 Lithuania will face Israel, while Latvian team will take on Estonia.

Lithuania U18: Marius Grigonis 14, Tomas Dimsa 13, Tautvydas Jodelis 11, Justas Tamulis 10, Simas Saupys 10
Estonia U18: Hendrik Ruut 15, Martin Jurtom 13


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  EUROBASKET SUMMER LEAGUE   


ESL thanks PMS Basketball Club and Torino, Italy and here are the top five performers! - by ESL News

Torino, Italy ESL was a success and we know that PMS Torino and Torino, Italy is going to be the home of all future Europe ESL events. We could not have asked for a better host than Julio Trovato , the general Manager of PMS Torino. PMS is a first class organization, with first class facilities, no question about it. Also, with the amount of coaches, scouts and gms who showed up from Italian pro teams was incredible. For those players who missed this event they surely missed a golden opportunity to get there foot in the door of playing in Italy, which is one of the hardest countries to get into for import players. We chose a top 5 performers list because this ESL is a little different than the past ESLs as we had the elements of weather to deal with and some players arriving late from traveling difficulties. Therefore, we had two sessions a day with morning sessions being intense workouts with Coach Daniel Jusup . The morning sessions would be similar to what an NBA team would put their guys through or even free agents who come into workout for them. This is why ESL clearly separates itself from other camps or leagues, because they do not have any individual instruction groups or fundamental drills before guys play like we do. Usually, these camps just divide teams and play up and down without scouts, coaches or gms seeing what the fundamentals or learning styles of the players are like. Our games are always very organized and precise with pro set offenses run. Here in Torino, Italy we played 3 games and 3 workout sessions, which worked out perfectly. Players here had a chance to be coached one on one by legendary coach Daniel Jusup and have pro teams watch them are incredibly lucky. Coach Jusup is one of the best at the teaching the game to players which is second to none.

Top 5 performers, Torino, Italy
Corey Shontz (185-PG-89, college: John Carroll), Bulut Altin (187-PG-93), Davide Curletti (205-F-90), Ruben Silva (192-F) and Matija Poscic (205-C-85, college: De Paul)

Corey Shontz is a very solid point guard who is quietly athletic. He is quick, jumps well and can get to the rim. He has great range and is an extremely good person. There is no question he will be an asset to any team and because of this ESL in Italy, he is waiting for a call about several workouts with pro teams in Europe.

Bulut Altin is a pure point guard with a European flair about him. He can handle the ball tremendously and has great court vision. He has a very good pull up jumper and can score when he needs to. Very talented young prospect who we see as being a very high level player with a couple more years of experience.

Davide Curletti is a finesse type player who can play the power forward and small forward positions. Davide is very mobile player who battles around the basket and has a very nice shooting touch. Runs the floor extremely well and is a very intelligent player. Davide will be receiving his Italian citizenship and will be an asset to any Italian team he plays for.

Ruben Silva is a strong 2-3, who probably is more of a 2 than 3. Ruben can guard anyone from the 1 to the 3 and is a very intelligent player. Ruben is an extremely good shooter who has tremendous range from 3 point land. Look for Ruben to play at a high level one day as he is still young and would benefit by going to a nice mid-level program where he can gain some solid experience. However, dont be is surprised if he reaches a high level sooner rather than later.

Matija Poscic a very strong player with an NBA body. He runs the floor extremely well and has a very nice jump shot. Very quick and athletic, he can guard a big 3, 4 and 5 with no problem. He will create major match up problems for teams who use him the right way. He can stretch the floor or post you up. He is a relentless rebounder who will battle you inside. Nice moves around the basket with nice jump hooks from either hand. Matija will make any team at any level happy they took him.


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  EUROCHALLENGE   

Standings

EuroChallenge Standings
Group A
 1. Etha 0-0 
 2. Karsiyaka 0-0 
 3. Krka 0-0 
Group B
 1. Keravnos 0-0 
 2. Krasnie Krilya 0-0 
 3. Ploiesti 0-0 
Group C
 1. Norrkoping 0-0 
 2. Pyrinto 0-0 
 3. Sodertalje 0-0 
 4. Ventspils 0-0 
Group D
 1. Dijon 0-0 
 2. Khimik 0-0 
 3. Tartu Ulikool 0-0 
Group E
 1. Aalstar 0-0 
 2. M.Hainaut 0-0 
 3. Paris-Levallois 0-0 
 4. Pitesti 0-0 
Group F
 1. EWE Baskets 0-0 
 2. Kormend 0-0 
 3. Szolnok 0-0 
 4. Timisoara 0-0 
Group G
 1. Gravelines 0-0 
 2. Minsk-2006 0-0 
 3. Nancy 0-0 
Group H
 1. Antwerp 0-0 
 2. Armia 0-0 
 3. Hapoel Holon 0-0 
 4. Telekom Baskets 0-0 
Qualifying Round
 1. Aliaga 0-0 
 2. Apollon 0-0 
 3. Gaz Metan 0-0 
 4. Kataja 0-0 
 5. Klosterneub. 0-0 
 6. Tarvas 0-0 
 7. Tofas 0-0 
 8. Ural Ekaterinb. 0-0 


Transfer news from Krasnye Krylia and Oldenburg - by Diamadis Farmakis

EWE Oldenburg and Krasnye Krylia have some new faces into their rosters. The German side, announced four new players and the Russians an american forward. Let's get things first:

EWE Baskets Oldenburg, made it's greatest addition, the last one. We talking ofcourse about the former BBL top scorer and MVP Julius Jenkins (187-PG-81, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Georgia South), who is the fourth new face in Oldenburg as the team is looking to get back to the play-offs after a rather disappointing season.

Jenkins was on the books of league and cup champions Brose Baskets Bamberg last year and had his best seasons in Germany for Alba Berlin between 2006 and 2011. The 31 year-old shooting guard had 9.7 points per contest for Bamberg in the BBL and contributed 10.4 points per game in the Euroleague, in a little less than 20 minutes off the bench.

But EWE Baskets, didn't stop there. Previously, had snatch Chris Kramer from semi-finalists Wrzburg, who shone as his team's top scorer with an average of 11.2 points and also brought in point guard Dru Joyce from Trier.

The fourth new face is former Germany international Konrad Wysocki, who played in Poland and will boost the rebounding of Oldenburg with his fearless approach.


Krasnye Krylia Samara, on the other hand, have announced the signing of 2.03 m power forward Andre Smith. The 27-year-old played for Italian club Otto Caserta in the last season and was the domestic league's top scorer.
Smith led his team with an average of 18.7 points and 7.6 rebounds in 33.1 minutes of play on average. Smith made a name for himself in the 2010-11 EuroChallenge campaign, when he led Turkish side Pinar Karsiyaka to the Quarter-Finals.


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  EUROCUP   

Standings

Eurocup Standings
 1. Art.Dragons 0-0 
 2. Azovmash 0-0 
 3. Banco di Sard. 0-0 
 4. Banvit BK 0-0 
 5. Buducnost 0-0 
 6. Cholet 0-0 
 7. Cibona 0-0 
 8. Crvena Zvezda 0-0 
 9. Den Bosch 0-0 
 10. Galatasaray 0-0 
 11. Gescrap BB 0-0 
 12. Hapoel J-M 0-0 
 13. Kolossos 0-0 
 14. Lagun Aro GBC 0-0 
 15. Lokomotiv 0-0 
 16. Orleans 0-0 
 17. Panionios 0-0 
 18. Rudupis 0-0 
 19. s.Oliver Baskets 0-0 
 20. Spartak SP 0-0 
 21. Spirou 0-0 
 22. Trefl Sopot 0-0 
 23. Triumph 0-0 
 24. Valencia 0-0 
 25. VEF Riga 0-0 


Transfer news from Dinamo Sassari and Artland Dragons - by Diamadis Farmakis

Eurocup teams are getting ready for the upcoming season, by constantly adding players to their rosters. Let's see, which two players agreed terms with Dinamo Sassari from Italy and Artland Dragons from Germany.

Eurocup newcomer Dinamo Banco di Sardegna Sassari, announced a new agreement with guard Jack Devecchi, who extended his contract until the end of the 2014-15 season, the club announced Thursday.
Devecchi (1.96 meters, 27 years old) is set to start his seventh season with the club. He averaged 2.7 points and 1.2 rebounds in 29 games last season, in which Sassari reached the Italian League semifinals for the first time in club history.

The German side Artland Dragons, added to it's roster the athletic guard Sergio Kerusch (195-F-89, college: W.Kentucky), to a one-year deal, the club announced Tuesday. Kerusch (1.95 meters, 23 years old) arrives from Aris BSA 2003, where he averaged 7.4 points and 5.8 rebounds in 12 Eurocup games last season.
He helped Aris to make it to the Greek League playoffs and the Eurocup Last 16. Kerusch had arrived to Aris from Western Kentucky University, where he averaged 15.6 points and 7.9 rebounds per game in the 2010-11 season as a senior for the Hilltoppers.


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

Standings

Euroleague Standings
Group A
 1. Fener.Ulker 0-0 
 2. Khimky 0-0 
 3. Panathinaikos 0-0 
 4. Real Madrid 0-0 
 5. Union Olimpija 0-0 
Group B
 1. ALBA 0-0 
 2. Asseco Prokom 0-0 
 3. Chalon 0-0 
 4. Maccabi T-A 0-0 
 5. Montepaschi 0-0 
 6. Unicaja 0-0 
Group C
 1. Anadolu Efes 0-0 
 2. Caja Laboral 0-0 
 3. Cedevita 0-0 
 4. EA7 0-0 
 5. Olympiacos 0-0 
 6. Zalgiris 0-0 
Group D
 1. Besiktas 0-0 
 2. Brose Baskets 0-0 
 3. CSKA 0-0 
 4. FCB Regal 0-0 
 5. Lietuvos rytas 0-0 
 6. Partizan 0-0 
Qualifying Round
 1. BC Donetsk 0-0 
 2. Bennet Cantu 0-0 
 3. CEZ Nymburk 0-0 
 4. Le Mans 0-0 
 5. Lukoil Academik 0-0 
 6. Oostende 0-0 
 7. Ratiopharm 0-0 
 8. Unics 0-0 


Giorgos Bartzokas the new coach of Olympiacos - by Giorgos Diploidis

Giorgos Bartzokas will be the new coach of Olympiacos S.F.P. Pireus The team of Pireus annnounced the news officially today although it was known a lot of days ago that Bartzokas will be the replacement of Dusan Ivkovic (agency: Beo Basket ).

So Giorgos Bartzokas makes his big step in his career. He started his career the period 2005-06 as an assistand coach of Panagiotis Giannakis (agency: FCM ) in Marousi BC Then he was hired as a first coach for three years in the club of Olimpia GE Larissa when he showed the first signs of his talent. The season 2009-10 he returned to Maroussi as a head coach and the last two periods was in the historical team of Panionios ON Telecoms Athens Last year after the play offs he finished third with the club of Nea Smyrni which was a great success. The previous years all expected that his big step would be in the national team or in a high profile team and finally succeed the second. Now will be the "big bet" for him taking the responsibility from Dusan Ivkovic (agency: Beo Basket ) who won the Greek Championship and the Euroleague Trophy.


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


1.DIVISION: Jarkko Kyllonen back to Tarmo (Porvoo) - by Rauno Hurmalainen

Finnish Basketball Federation didn't allow Torpan Pojat (Helsinki) to play in Korisliiga (Top League) 2012-13 and ToPo has lost almost the whole Finnish roster. Now PG Jarkko Kyllonen (186-G-87) has decided to leave ToPo and has joined Tarmo (Porvoo) in division 1. Kyllonen was part of Tarmo roster 2010-11, when Porvoo team was playing in Korisliiga. Kyllonen was averaging 6,8 ppg in Porvoo and 1,8 ppg last season, when ToPo was winning bronze medals.
SG Mikael Holme (192-G-79) has re-signed with Tarmo. Holme will start his 10th season on Tarmo roster. Holme has played two seasons also on KTP (Kotka) roster during his basketball career.


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


France down Great Britain in Orleans - by Eurobasket News

France-Great Britain 79:74

France down Great Britain in Orleans in the friendly campaign. The home side needed a strong last quarter for 79:74 win.
Great Britain started the game with 24:15 and continued their dominance in the first half. The guests added 19-10 in the second period for 43:25 at the halftime. They could not however win the game. France needed 28-18 in the third period and finished the game with 26-13 in the last stanza.
Yakhouba Diawara (201-F-82, college: Pepperdine) and Boris Diaw (203-PF-82) top-scored for the winners with 14 points each. Nando De Colo (202-G-87, agency: Arete Sports Agency) nailed 13, while Kevin Seraphin (205-F/C-89) posted 11. Luol Deng (206-F-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Duke) erupted with 23 points and 12 rebounds in defeat. Michael Lenzly (189-G-81, college: Wofford) and Nathan Reinking (188-G-73, college: Kent St.) finished the game with 11 points each.
GB's next game will be against Spain on Monday. France will face Spain on July 10th.

France: Yakhouba Diawara 14, Boris Diaw 14, Nando De Colo 13, Kevin Seraphin 11
Great Britain: Luol Deng 23+12 rebs, Michael Lenzly 11, Nathan Reinking 11,


Osiris Eldridge joins Boulazac - by Eurobasket News

Osiris Eldridge (191-G-88, agency: N.E.T., college: Illinois St.) will continue his career in France. The American guard signed a one-year deal with Boulazac. He spent last season with Bakersfield Jam averaging 15.1 points, 3.5 rebounds and 3.1 assists in 42 NBA D-League games. In 2010/11 season, Eldridge played for Karsiyaka. There he had 9.4 ppg and 3.4 rpg for 27 Turkish league games. The player also added 12.7 ppg and 2.8 rpg for 15 games in EuroChallenge. Karsiyaka reached Quarterfinals in that competition. Osiris Eldridge is a product of Illinois State University, where he graduated in 2010. He shined with 15.5 ppg, 4 rpg and 2.5 apg for 33 games as a senior. He was named to All-MVC 1st Team -08, 09, 10.


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


Anton Gavel Remains In Bamberg - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

According to sportando.net and www.open-report.de, 2012 German defender of the year Anton Gavel (189-G-84, agency: Pro One Sports) will remain in Bamberg. For some Bamberg fans who want to keep as much of the 2012 championship team together, the last weeks werent necessarily easy as speculation was that Gavel might not stay in Bamberg, but fans now can be relieved that the German/Slovakian will remain another two years with the Brose Baskets Bamberg. Gavel came to Bamberg in November 2009 and since then has collected 6 Beko BBL titles with the Bavarian team. Last season, Gavel played Euroleague: 10 games: 8.5ppg, 1.7rpg, 2.1apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 48.4%, 3PT: 30.0%, FT: 73.1%; German League: 42 games: 10.7ppg, 2.0rpg, 3.7apg, FGP: 53.5%, 3PT: 42.8%, FT: 75.9%. Bamberg manager Wolfgang Heyder who lives basketball 24/7 knows exactly the worth of his player. "Anton Gavel is one of our key players. We are happy that we could keep him. He has been the heart of our team and will continue to be in the next two years", stressed Wolfgang Heyder. Before coming to Bamberg, Gavel had played for BG Karlsruhe and the LTi Giessen 46ers and also has had experience outside of Germany playing for teams like : Polaris World Murcia (Spain-ACB), Aris Thessaloniki (Greece-A1) and BK Svit (Extraliga).


Dominik Spohr Heads To The LTI Giessen 46ers - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber


According to www.derwesten.de, Dominik Spohr (200-F-89, agency: Limelight Hoops) departs from Phoenix Hagen and will play for the LTi Giessen this season. Spohr is a 23 year old 200cm forward that had been in Hagen since 2004. Last season, the German played 30 games: 1.9ppg, 1.4rpg; played also for BG Hagen (Regionalliga): 6 games: 13.3ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.2apg. Last season his best scoring games were 9 points against Wurzburg and 9 against TBB Trier. "I am looking forward to this new challenge. This will be my first time away from Hagen and I am happy that it isnt that far", declared Dominik Spohr (200-F-89, agency: Limelight Hoops). Spohr played a total of 64 Beko BBL games and 24 second bundesliga games for Phoenix Hagen. He started his basketball career for : BBV Hagen (Regionalliga) in 2004. Awards/Achievements in his basketball acreer have been German NBBL All-Tournament Team -07, German 2.Bundesliga Pro A Runner-Up -09, and German 2.Bundesliga Pro B (Group North) Regular Season Champion -11

Source: LTi Giessen 46ers


German National Team Announced For July Training Session - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

With the qualifying for the Euro 2013 getting closer and closer, preparation is in full swing as German national coach Svetislav Pesic has announced the roster for a training session at Kienbaum, Berlin for July 11th-21st. The biggest surprises in the roster was Eisbaeren Bremerhaven Anthony Canty (183-PG-91) who has developed well in the last years under Doug Spradley and TBB trier Andreas Seifert, but developing German players has been the secret middle name of Henrik Rodl since years. The German roster is as follows:

Robin Benzing (FC Bayern Munchen), Anthony Canty (183-PG-91) (Eisbren Bremerhaven), Bastian Doreth (FC Bayern Munchen), Per Gnther (ratiopharm Ulm), Yassin Idbihi (ALBA Berlin), Jan-Hendrik Jagla (FC Bayern Munchen), Tim Ohlbrecht (Fraport Skyliners Frankfurt), Tibor Plei (Saski Baskonia Caja Laboral Vitoria / Spanien), Heiko Schaffartzik (ALBA Berlin), Philipp Schwethelm (Foto, FC Bayern Munchen), Andreas Seifert (TBB Trier), Lucca Staiger (Letzer Verein: ALBA Berlin), Karsten Tadda (Brose Baskets Bamberg), Maik Zirbes (Brose Baskets Bamberg) und Philip Zwiener (Eisbren Bremerhaven).

Source: DBB


USC Heidelberg Ink Kristian Kuhn - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber


USC Heidelberg has announced the arrival of Kristian Kuhn (208-C-87, college: N.Arizona) Kuhn is a 24 year old 208cm center that is a very talented player with great rebound- and block-shot-skills. He started playing basketball at the age of 17 and last season played for the Cuxhaven BasCats (ProA): 12 games: 5.2ppg, 4.0rpg, FGP: 51.9%, FT: 31.6%. "I am very happy that he decided to play for us. He showed a lot of energy and intensity tis week in the try out that can infect a team", stressed USC Heidelberg head coach Tony Garbelotto. Kuhn started his basketball career in 2004 for : SC Bergstrasse (Landesliga) where he played until 2006. In 2006-2007, he played for TV Langen II (Regionalliga): 13 games: 5.3 ppg, 8.2 rpg. In 2007-2008, he got experience playing overseas for Trinity Valley JC (JUCO): 28 games: 3.2ppg, 3.8rpg. In 2008-2009, he started to play for : N.Arizona (NCAA), in Feb.'09 moved to TV 1862 Langen (ProA): 2 games: 3.0ppg, 3.5rpg. From 2009-2011, he played for Erdgas Ehingen/Urspringschule (ProB) playing a total of 57 games. "Playing near my roots is something very special and I am looking forward to the new season", stressed Kristian Kuhn Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been German 2.Bundesliga Pro B (Group South) Regular Season Champion -11, and German 2.Bundesliga Pro B Champion -11

Source: USC Heidelberg


Jacob Doerksen transfers from Hannover to Vechta - by Moritz Korff

Jacob Doerksen (200-F-87) will continue his Germany career at Pro A newcomer SC Rasta Vechta, the club said today.
The 24-year-old Canadian comes off a stellar rookie season with the UBC Hannover Tigers in the Pro B. He averaged 21.7 points and 7.7 rebounds for the Tigers in the 2011-12 season, and was named Eurobasket.com All-Pro B Center of the Year. Vechta Coach Pat Elzie however plans to move Doerksen to the 4 position.


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


Giorgos Bartzokas the new coach of Olympiacos - by Giorgos Diploidis

Giorgos Bartzokas will be the new coach of Olympiacos S.F.P. Pireus The team of Pireus annnounced the news officially today although it was known a lot of days ago that Bartzokas will be the replacement of Dusan Ivkovic (agency: Beo Basket ).

So Giorgos Bartzokas makes his big step in his career. He started his career the period 2005-06 as an assistand coach of Panagiotis Giannakis (agency: FCM ) in Marousi BC Then he was hired as a first coach for three years in the club of Olimpia GE Larissa when he showed the first signs of his talent. The season 2009-10 he returned to Maroussi as a head coach and the last two periods was in the historical team of Panionios ON Telecoms Athens Last year after the play offs he finished third with the club of Nea Smyrni which was a great success. The previous years all expected that his big step would be in the national team or in a high profile team and finally succeed the second. Now will be the "big bet" for him taking the responsibility from Dusan Ivkovic (agency: Beo Basket ) who won the Greek Championship and the Euroleague Trophy.


Greece U20 beat the Scandinavian side in France - by Eurobasket News

Greece U20-Sweden U20 84:83

Greece U20 beat the Scandinavian side in France. The Greek side grabbed 84:83 win over Sweden U20 in Troyes.
Sweden lost the opener to France and tried to recover in Day 2. They opened the game with 26-19 in the first period and had 5 point advantage at the halftime. Greece won the second frame 24-22 for that difference. In the third period Greece added 17-16 and reduced to 4 points after three quarters. The score was tied at 76:76 and then at 79:79. Anastasios Antonakis (204-PF-92) scored for 81:79 and Markus ERIKSSON tied it again at 81:81. PAPADIONISIOU nailed three for the winners, while Sebastian Norman (208-C/F-92) managed to score only two.
Ianoulis LARENTZAKIS and Anastasios Antonakis stepped up with 19 points for the winners, while Petros MELISARATOS had 17. Spiros MOTSENIGOS followed them with 14 points in a win. Tobias Borg (183-PG-93) answered with 24 points in the losing effort and Sebastian Norman posted 21. Markus ERIKSSON notched 19, whilst Jonathan Person (192-PG-93, agency: JEMsports) and William Gutenius (205-F/C-92) brought 8 each.

Greece U20: Ianoulis LARENTZAKIS 19, Anastasios Antonakis 19, Petros MELISARATOS 17, Spiros MOTSENIGOS 14
Sweden U20: Tobias Borg 24, Sebastian Norman 21, Markus ERIKSSON 19, Jonathan Person 8, William Gutenius 8


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


Dutch Prospects Seek their Dream Abroad - by Fred Roggen

In the last 10-15 years the game of basketball in Holland has suffered a great deal. Other nations are maximizing the athletic and skill potential of their young players.
Instead of making more avenues to get our prospects better, the pro-teams using those young players just to fill the bench.
I understand that more players wont make money playing basketball than will but its not only about them. The product of basketball in Holland is pretty bad right now.
The last two years a lot of Dutch prospects left Holland, because of this situation, moving to the US or Spain to develop their skills and to seek their dreams.

Here is a list of Dutch prospects heading abroad and where they are headed.

USA:
Martijn Bernhard (178-G) 178 G J.and Wales, CO
Kevin Bleeker (208-C-93) 208 C 93 Canisius
Ruud de Jong (203-C) 203 C E.Kentucky
Kenoy Jones 193 G/F Chattahoochee TC
Charlon Kloof (190-G-90) 190 G 90 St.Bonaventure
Matthias Runs (208-C) 208 C 94 St.Bonaventure
Kadeem Pantophlet (198-F-90) 198 F 90 Duquesne
TThomas van der Mars (208-C-90)s 208 C 90 Portland
Wouter van der Eng (202-F/C-89) 202 F/C 89 Brandeis
Kevin van Wijk (204-F-89) 204 F 89 Valparaiso
Joey van Zegeren McAdam (208-F-90) 208 F 90 Virginia Tech
Chaed Weillian (203-F) 203 F Tennessee State University
Jasper Wieling (208-C-91) 208 C 91 BYU-Hawaii
Paul Candiff (184-PG-93) 184 G 93 Cuesta Junior College
Jito Kok (205-C-94) 205 C 94 University of San Diego
Shane Hammink (198-G-94) 198 G 94 Louisiana State University
Don Rigters Pensacola State College
Mike Hogervorst (207-C-95) 207 C 95 Holderness High School
Willem Brandwijk (204-F-95) 204 F 95 Holderness High School
Eric van Beek 178 G 92 EnterpriseOzark Community College
Derrik Smits 210 C 95 Zionsville Community HS

Canada:
Marc Peutz (205-C-92) 205 C 92 Cape Breton ( (CIS)
Arild Geugjes Cape Breton ( (CIS)
Daan Wiersum (F-91) 207 F 91 Calgary ( (CIS)

Spain:
Terrence Bieshaar 97 Joventut Badalona
Oliver Bieshaar 03 Joventut Badalona
Floris Versteeg (200-F-94) 200 F 94 Canarias Basketball Academy
Jordy Kuiper 203 F 95 Canarias Basketball Academy
Nick Hammink 192 G 95 Canarias Basketball Academy
Ryan Hammink 195 F 95 Canarias Basketball Academy
Stefan Topalovic 191 G 95 Canarias Basketball Academy
Merijn Awater 190 G/F 97 Canarias Basketball Academy
Jonah Callenbach (194-F/G-93) 194 F 93 Fontedoso Carrefour El Bulevar de Avila
Torben Tonjann (203-C-94) 203 C 94 Caceres Ciudad del Baloncesto
Olaf Schaftenaar (205-C-93) 205 C 93 Real Club Nautico de Tenerife
Bart Stolk (206-C-93) 206 C 93 Real Club Nautico de Tenerife

Slovakia:
Kasper Averink (183-PG-93, agency: Arete Sports Agency) 183 G 93 BC Prievidza

Estonia:
Camil Hadzic 95 BC Kalev/Cramo



Matrixx Magixx bring back center Marcel Aarts - by Fred Roggen

What began as a summer of uncertainty has developed into an offseason in which the Magixx's have slowly plugged the many holes of what used to be a Swiss cheese roster.
The Matrixx Magixx signed Dutch center Marcel Aarts (213-C-83, agency: R.H.Consultancy), Matrixx Magixx's Manager Raoul van Loon announced today. Marcel Aarts averaged 5.1 points, 4.1 rebounds in 32 Dutch Basketball League games last season with the Magixx.
Besides Marcel Aarts, Matrixx Magixx has also added 16-years old Jaap Ratering Arntz to their roster.



Den Helder Kings tabs Jean-Marc Jaumin as new head coach - by Fred Roggen

Den Helder Kings announced Monday that BelgianJean- Marc Jaumin will be the new head coach for the newcomer in the league. Jean-Marc Jaumin, 42, arrives from Telenet Oostende, a club he helped reaching the EuroChallenge Semifinals in 2011. He left Oostende in November 2011. Prior to that, he has served Oostende since 2008 as an assistant coach.
As a player, Jaumin played in the strong Spanish ACB for Unicaja Malaga, Real Madrid and Telecom Gran Canaria.


*****************************************************
  INDONESIA   


SEABA Cup: Indonesia rout Singapore to finish second - by Eurobasket News

Indonesia - Singapore 65:51

Indonesia claimed the second place at the SEABA Cup held in Thailand. They shot down Singapore in the final game of the tournament. Faisal Julius Ahmad (179-PG-81) knocked down 16 points to lead the winners.
Singapore earned a 12:9 lead at the first break. Indonesia cut the deficit to 2 points at the interval 20:22. They exploded in the third quarter. Indonesia went on a 29:13 rally to surge ahead. The teams slowed down in the final period and traded baskets as Indonesia marched to the victory at the end. Arki Wisnu (187-G-88) notched 14 points for Indonesia. Vamiga Michel (191-SF-92) and Frida Susanto (195-PF-86) added 8 points each in the win. Hanbin Ng answered with 11 points for Singapore. Matialakan Pathman (198-C-80) posted 16 points in the losing case.

Indonesia: Faisal Julius Ahmad 16, Arki Wisnu 14, Vamiga Michel 8, Frida Susanto 8
Singapore: Matialakan Pathman 16, Hanbin Ng 11


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


After playing overseas, Robinson set to pursue NBA dreams - by David Pick

Since the 2008-2009 season, Cal. State Fullerton alumnus Frank Robinson has been patiently chasing his NBA dream. After a stint with the Atlanta Hawks' '08-'09 team, Robinson took his talents overseas to Slovenia and Germany before returning to Philips Arena the very next season.

The California native played pre-season ball with the Hawks but spent the remainder of the year as a starter for the D-League's Los Angeles D-Fenders.

Now, after last participating in the 2010 NBA Summer League with the D-Fenders and back-to-back seasons in Israel, Robinson is back on Las Vegas' hardwood where he joins the Golden State Warriors' summer squad and will debut against the Los Angeles Lakers on July 13th, at the COX Pavilion Arena on the campus of University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

Though several NBA organization tried to recruit Robinson for summer league workouts, he is convinced the Warriors are the best fit. "Being invited to play for the Warriors was unexpected but I am grateful for the invitation and plan on taking full advantage of the platform to show my improvements from the last couple of years in Israel," said Robinson via email interview.

The 6-4 explosive guard, who clinched Defensive Player of the Year honors in two different continents plans to utilize his athletic defensive abilities and standout. "It is no secret that I am known for my defensive game. Knowing coach (Mark) Jackson is a guy who takes pride in his team's defense and smart basketball, I hope I can adjust to what he wants and earn minutes on this summer league team," Robinson added.

Robinson, who first entered the summer league scenes four seasons ago is determined that he has improved over the years and elevated his game to the NBA level. "It's been a couple years since I worked with the Hawks and this time I feel like I have matured into a player and person off the court that can help teams win," said Robinson.

He took his training back to the basics while running tracks and hills at 06:00 on a daily basis, and putting in extra gym hours to work on his game with Eugene 'Pooh' Jeter, Brandon Heath, Joe Crawford and Horace Wormely, helping each other prepare for the future. "The idea was to do the things that got me to this point, and I owe it to Joe for talking to me and keeping me motivated everyday," he said.

Robinson is coming off successful seasons in Israel with Maccabi Haifa and B.C. Habikaa recording professional career highs in steals (2.4), rebounds (5.5) and assists (2.3) per game, and believes the years abroad better prepared him for the NBA process this time around.

"Coming in as a first year guy you think it's all about scoring, but the reality is that teams want guys to come in and be able to adjust to their main players and help them with the little things like hitting open shots, guarding the opposing teams' best player and making it difficult for him to score. That, and making plays without the ball is what will keep you on a roster for guys in my position," said Robinson.

He takes pride in being a graduate of the mid-major program at Cal. State Fullerton and is entertained by the unique opportunity of being in Las Vegas along with two of his college teammates. "No one would have expect for Cal. State Fullerton to have three players (Josh Akognon, Bobby Brown and myself) from the same team playing in the summer league," he said.

"Josh (Sacramento Kings) has been one of the top players in China and this year hopes to make his debut in the NBA. Bobby (Toronto Raptors) has two NBA seasons under his belt and has a great chance of making an NBA roster. I'm happy the three of us can share this moment, and I pray that we all have successful showings," Robinson said.

In preparation for the summer league, Robinson spent the last few weeks working out in Los Angeles while playing for team 'Top Prospects' of the internationally recognized Drew League. "Coached by John and associate head coach 'Big Guard Rob', It was important for me to re-connect with all my childhood friends and play and train together," he said.

Regarding his upcoming challenge Robinson said, "The goal? Obviously to play well enough to earn a guaranteed contract or even a non-guaranteed for that matter. I would not be going (to Las Vegas) if I didn't feel that I was ready to accomplish that at this point in my career."


Baltic Cup U18: Latvia prevail over Israel in the opener - by Eurobasket News

Latvia U18-Israel U18 88:55

Latvia prevail over Israel in the opener of U18 Baltic Cup 2012. The Baltic side overcame Israel 88:55 in Riga.
Latvia U18 erupted with 30-13 in the opening period and never looked behind. The hosts of the tournament added 22-15 in the second period and enjoyed 52:28 halftime advantage. In the third quarter the teams nailed 17 points that kept the same difference on the board. Latvia added another 19-10 in the last stanza to seal the first victory.
Edgars Stelmahers (185-G-94) paced all the winners with 18 points and Davis Geks (183-G-95) delivered 14. Elvis Endzels (180-G-94) notched 13, while Toms Leimanis (190-G-94) added 10. Egor Koulechov (194-F-94) ended up with 16 points for the guests and Rafael Menco had 7.

Latvia U18: Edgars Stelmahers 18, Davis Geks 14, Elvis Endzels 13, Toms Leimanis 10
Israel U18: Egor Koulechov 16, Rafael Menco 7


Israel post second win in Tallinn - by Eurobasket News

Israel U16 - Latvia U16 70:57

Israel gained the second consecutive win at the start of 2012 Baltic Cup tournament in Tallinn. They held off Latvian counterparts to stay undefeated. Roi Huber stepped up with 23 points to lead the charge. Latvia led by two points ten minutes into the game 13:11. They extended the lead in the second quarter. Latvia ensured a 36:30 halftime advantage. Israel recovered in the third term. They held their opponents to 4 points and surged ahead for a 44:40 advantage. Israel poured in 26 points in the fourth frame to seal the winning outcome at the end. Eran Tessone posted 11 points for Israel. Yevgeni Holodov produced 9 points for the winners. Rinalds Malmanis (200-F-96) and Rudolfs Stradnieks (202-C-96) had 10 points each for Latvia.

Israel U16: Roi Huber 23, Eran Tessone 11, Yevgeni Holodov 9
Latvia U16: Rinalds Malmanis 10, Rudolfs Stradnieks 10


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


Italy U16 finished second in Guadalajara - by Eurobasket News

Italy U16 finished second in Spain at the Torneo de Guadalajara. After the loss from Turkey in Day 1, the Italian side overcame Spain and England.
Italy U16 grabbed 86:84 win over Spain U16. The latter started with 20-19 and then led 46:35 at the halftime. The third quarter was decisive in the game and brought 63:62 finish at the end of the quarter. Italy added a narrow win in the last stanza to seal the victory. Riccardo Rossato (185-G-96) erupted with 24 points and Federico Mussini (183-G-96) had 17. Garcia A. Replied with 15 points, while Adnam Omeragic (194-G-96) scored 14.
Italy U16 smashed England U16 85:55 in the last game. Italy took the lead after the opening period and increased the lead throughout the game. Italy enjoyed 47:31 at the halftime and led 66:41 after three quarters. Federico Mussini stepped up with 15 points to lead all the winners, while Daniel Donzelli (195-G-96) had 13. Lautier Ogunleye replied with 17, whilst David Couchman posted 12.


*****************************************************
  IVORY COAST   


Afrobasket U18M Qualifiers: Cote dIvoire picks ticket - by Olusegun Ikuesan

Cote dIvoire U18 national men team at the weekend picked FIBA Africa Zone-3 sole ticket to the 2012 Afrobasket for U18 Men with a 70-30 points whitewashing of Liberia in the closing day of the qualifiers at the Palais des Sports Treichville.

The last game of the qualifying series which drew a large crowd saw the young Elephant winning in all four quarters by 13-03, 13-09, 18-07 and 26-11 points saw the Cote dIvoire winning the series with a 5-1 record for 11 cumulative points to top the qualifiers.

In the earlier game played in the closing day saw Ghana handling Nigeria a 69-58 points defeat in a game that the Nigerian side had under control in the first half with a six points advantage of 37-31 (15-11, 22-20).

The Ghanaian side who are taking part in any age grade competition on the continent soon turn the table against the Nigerian at the resumption of play in the third quarter forcing the Nigerian side to make series of turn-over ending the third quarter by 12-08 points in Ghana favour.

With a two points deficit going into the last quarter Ghana continue it offensive build-up beating Nigeria roundly on the floor winning the last and decisive quarter in grand style to the admiration of the fans by 26-13 points to push Nigeria to the third spot on the log while Liberia occupies the rear.


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  LATVIA   


Lithuania U20 outscore Latvian side twice in a friendly - by Eurobasket News

Lithuania U20 outscore Latvian side twice in a friendly. In Game 1 Lithuania U20 rolled over Latvia U20 92:63 and then they added 76:59 victory.
In the second game Lithuania started with 25-21 and added 20-12 in the second period. Moreover the hosts celebrated a 21-14 win in the third period and did not mind 10-12 in the last stanza. Ojars Silins (201-F-93) scored 12 points in defeat and Janis Berzins (201-SF-93, agency: Players Group) had 10. Kaspars Vecvagars (193-G-93) ended up with 9, while Janis Timma (201-F/G-92, agency: FCM) added 7.


Baltic Cup U18: Latvia prevail over Israel in the opener - by Eurobasket News

Latvia U18-Israel U18 88:55

Latvia prevail over Israel in the opener of U18 Baltic Cup 2012. The Baltic side overcame Israel 88:55 in Riga.
Latvia U18 erupted with 30-13 in the opening period and never looked behind. The hosts of the tournament added 22-15 in the second period and enjoyed 52:28 halftime advantage. In the third quarter the teams nailed 17 points that kept the same difference on the board. Latvia added another 19-10 in the last stanza to seal the first victory.
Edgars Stelmahers (185-G-94) paced all the winners with 18 points and Davis Geks (183-G-95) delivered 14. Elvis Endzels (180-G-94) notched 13, while Toms Leimanis (190-G-94) added 10. Egor Koulechov (194-F-94) ended up with 16 points for the guests and Rafael Menco had 7.

Latvia U18: Edgars Stelmahers 18, Davis Geks 14, Elvis Endzels 13, Toms Leimanis 10
Israel U18: Egor Koulechov 16, Rafael Menco 7


Israel post second win in Tallinn - by Eurobasket News

Israel U16 - Latvia U16 70:57

Israel gained the second consecutive win at the start of 2012 Baltic Cup tournament in Tallinn. They held off Latvian counterparts to stay undefeated. Roi Huber stepped up with 23 points to lead the charge. Latvia led by two points ten minutes into the game 13:11. They extended the lead in the second quarter. Latvia ensured a 36:30 halftime advantage. Israel recovered in the third term. They held their opponents to 4 points and surged ahead for a 44:40 advantage. Israel poured in 26 points in the fourth frame to seal the winning outcome at the end. Eran Tessone posted 11 points for Israel. Yevgeni Holodov produced 9 points for the winners. Rinalds Malmanis (200-F-96) and Rudolfs Stradnieks (202-C-96) had 10 points each for Latvia.

Israel U16: Roi Huber 23, Eran Tessone 11, Yevgeni Holodov 9
Latvia U16: Rinalds Malmanis 10, Rudolfs Stradnieks 10


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  LITHUANIA   


Lithuania U20 outscore Latvian side twice in a friendly - by Eurobasket News

Lithuania U20 outscore Latvian side twice in a friendly. In Game 1 Lithuania U20 rolled over Latvia U20 92:63 and then they added 76:59 victory.
In the second game Lithuania started with 25-21 and added 20-12 in the second period. Moreover the hosts celebrated a 21-14 win in the third period and did not mind 10-12 in the last stanza. Ojars Silins (201-F-93) scored 12 points in defeat and Janis Berzins (201-SF-93, agency: Players Group) had 10. Kaspars Vecvagars (193-G-93) ended up with 9, while Janis Timma (201-F/G-92, agency: FCM) added 7.


Lithuania topple Estonia at Baltic Cup - by Eurobasket News

Lithuania U16 - Estonia U16 88:49

Lithuania gained the first win at the 2012 Baltic Cup. They toppled Estonian counterparts to improve at 1-1 record. Antanas Krimelis scored 20 points to lead the winners. Estonia fell at 0-2 record after the loss.
Lithuania cleared off in the opening quarter. They posted a 27:12 lead ten minutes into the game. Estonia stopped the bleeding in the second frame. The hosts cut the deficit to 11 points at halftime 41:30. But Lithuania went on a 27:13 rally in the third quarter to ensure a 25-point lead before the fourth frame. Lithuania did not slow down in the fourth quarter and raced to a comfortable win at the end. Tautvydas Paliukenas finished with 11 points, while Domantas Sabonis had 10 points and 13 rebounds for the winners. Jaagup Russak (179-G-96) answered with 19 points for Estonia. Karl-Robin Jurjens (199-F-96) accounted for 13 points in the loss.

Lithuania U16: Antanas Krimelis 20, Tautvydas Paliukenas 11, Domantas Sabonis 10+13 boards
Estonia U16: Jaagup Russak 19, Karl-Robin Jurjens 13


Baltic Cup U18: Lithuania overwhelm Estonia in Riga - by Eurobasket News

Lithuania U18-Estonia U18 103:67

Lithuania overwhelm Estonia in Riga at the start of the Baltic Cup U18. Lithuania U18 scored three digit against Estonia U18 in a 103:67 win.
Lithuania erupted in the opening period and grabbed 33-21 lead after the first 10 minutes of the game. Lithuania added 26-16 in the second frame and took 59:37 after the end of the first half. The second half also belonged to the favourites of the game. Lithuanian won the third period 24-16 and finished the game with 20-14 in the last stanza.
Marius Grigonis (198-F-94) top-scored for the winners with 14 points, while Tomas Dimsa had 13. Tautvydas Jodelis (194-F/G-94) produced 11 points, whilst Justas Tamulis (194-G-94) and Simas Saupys delivered 10 apiece. Hendrik Ruut (190-G-94) ended up with 15 points and Martin Jurtom (198-F-94) scored 13 in defeat.
In Day 2 Lithuania will face Israel, while Latvian team will take on Estonia.

Lithuania U18: Marius Grigonis 14, Tomas Dimsa 13, Tautvydas Jodelis 11, Justas Tamulis 10, Simas Saupys 10
Estonia U18: Hendrik Ruut 15, Martin Jurtom 13


*****************************************************
  MEXICO   


Hornets, Magic reportedly swapping Ayon, Anderson - by Eurobasket News

The Orlando Magic have agreed to a sign-and-trade deal, sending restricted free agent forward Ryan Anderson (6'10''-F-88, college: California) to the New Orleans Hornets for forward Gustavo Ayon (6'10''-F/C-85, agency: Duran International, college: San Jose St.), a person familiar with the agreement said.

The person spoke to the Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the NBA's trade moratorium prevents clubs from announcing such moves before July 11.

Anderson, 6-10, is entering his fifth NBA season out of California. He started 61 games for Orlando last season, averaging 16.1 points and 7.7 rebounds.

Ayon, also 6-10, spent his rookie NBA season in New Orleans last year after playing in Spain's top pro league. The 27-year-old Mexican started 24 games for the Hornets, averaging 5.9 points and 4.9 rebounds in 20.1 minutes.

Anderson has exceptional shooting range, giving him the versatility to also play on the wing. He led the NBA with three-pointers made (166) and attempted (422) last season. He shot just above 39% from beyond the arc, which ranked 27th in the league.

The Hornets will have to figure out where Anderson fits best in a lineup that also will include top overall draft choice Anthony Davis. Davis is tall enough at nearly 6-11 to play center, but likely will have to begin his career playing mostly at power forward because he lacks the bulk to match up against some of the NBA's top big men such as Dwight Howard and Andrew Bynum.

In Ayon, Orlando acquires a quick, strong and hustling frontcourt player whose court awareness drew praise from Hornets coaches. Ayon shot 54% last season with highs of 16 points (twice) and 17 rebounds, showing the potential to be a solid player if he can produce more consistently.

Courtesy of www.usatoday.com


*****************************************************
  NBA   


After playing overseas, Robinson set to pursue NBA dreams - by David Pick

Since the 2008-2009 season, Cal. State Fullerton alumnus Frank Robinson has been patiently chasing his NBA dream. After a stint with the Atlanta Hawks' '08-'09 team, Robinson took his talents overseas to Slovenia and Germany before returning to Philips Arena the very next season.

The California native played pre-season ball with the Hawks but spent the remainder of the year as a starter for the D-League's Los Angeles D-Fenders.

Now, after last participating in the 2010 NBA Summer League with the D-Fenders and back-to-back seasons in Israel, Robinson is back on Las Vegas' hardwood where he joins the Golden State Warriors' summer squad and will debut against the Los Angeles Lakers on July 13th, at the COX Pavilion Arena on the campus of University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

Though several NBA organization tried to recruit Robinson for summer league workouts, he is convinced the Warriors are the best fit. "Being invited to play for the Warriors was unexpected but I am grateful for the invitation and plan on taking full advantage of the platform to show my improvements from the last couple of years in Israel," said Robinson via email interview.

The 6-4 explosive guard, who clinched Defensive Player of the Year honors in two different continents plans to utilize his athletic defensive abilities and standout. "It is no secret that I am known for my defensive game. Knowing coach (Mark) Jackson is a guy who takes pride in his team's defense and smart basketball, I hope I can adjust to what he wants and earn minutes on this summer league team," Robinson added.

Robinson, who first entered the summer league scenes four seasons ago is determined that he has improved over the years and elevated his game to the NBA level. "It's been a couple years since I worked with the Hawks and this time I feel like I have matured into a player and person off the court that can help teams win," said Robinson.

He took his training back to the basics while running tracks and hills at 06:00 on a daily basis, and putting in extra gym hours to work on his game with Eugene 'Pooh' Jeter, Brandon Heath, Joe Crawford and Horace Wormely, helping each other prepare for the future. "The idea was to do the things that got me to this point, and I owe it to Joe for talking to me and keeping me motivated everyday," he said.

Robinson is coming off successful seasons in Israel with Maccabi Haifa and B.C. Habikaa recording professional career highs in steals (2.4), rebounds (5.5) and assists (2.3) per game, and believes the years abroad better prepared him for the NBA process this time around.

"Coming in as a first year guy you think it's all about scoring, but the reality is that teams want guys to come in and be able to adjust to their main players and help them with the little things like hitting open shots, guarding the opposing teams' best player and making it difficult for him to score. That, and making plays without the ball is what will keep you on a roster for guys in my position," said Robinson.

He takes pride in being a graduate of the mid-major program at Cal. State Fullerton and is entertained by the unique opportunity of being in Las Vegas along with two of his college teammates. "No one would have expect for Cal. State Fullerton to have three players (Josh Akognon, Bobby Brown and myself) from the same team playing in the summer league," he said.

"Josh (Sacramento Kings) has been one of the top players in China and this year hopes to make his debut in the NBA. Bobby (Toronto Raptors) has two NBA seasons under his belt and has a great chance of making an NBA roster. I'm happy the three of us can share this moment, and I pray that we all have successful showings," Robinson said.

In preparation for the summer league, Robinson spent the last few weeks working out in Los Angeles while playing for team 'Top Prospects' of the internationally recognized Drew League. "Coached by John and associate head coach 'Big Guard Rob', It was important for me to re-connect with all my childhood friends and play and train together," he said.

Regarding his upcoming challenge Robinson said, "The goal? Obviously to play well enough to earn a guaranteed contract or even a non-guaranteed for that matter. I would not be going (to Las Vegas) if I didn't feel that I was ready to accomplish that at this point in my career."


Hornets, Magic reportedly swapping Ayon, Anderson - by Eurobasket News

The Orlando Magic have agreed to a sign-and-trade deal, sending restricted free agent forward Ryan Anderson (6'10''-F-88, college: California) to the New Orleans Hornets for forward Gustavo Ayon (6'10''-F/C-85, agency: Duran International, college: San Jose St.), a person familiar with the agreement said.

The person spoke to the Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the NBA's trade moratorium prevents clubs from announcing such moves before July 11.

Anderson, 6-10, is entering his fifth NBA season out of California. He started 61 games for Orlando last season, averaging 16.1 points and 7.7 rebounds.

Ayon, also 6-10, spent his rookie NBA season in New Orleans last year after playing in Spain's top pro league. The 27-year-old Mexican started 24 games for the Hornets, averaging 5.9 points and 4.9 rebounds in 20.1 minutes.

Anderson has exceptional shooting range, giving him the versatility to also play on the wing. He led the NBA with three-pointers made (166) and attempted (422) last season. He shot just above 39% from beyond the arc, which ranked 27th in the league.

The Hornets will have to figure out where Anderson fits best in a lineup that also will include top overall draft choice Anthony Davis. Davis is tall enough at nearly 6-11 to play center, but likely will have to begin his career playing mostly at power forward because he lacks the bulk to match up against some of the NBA's top big men such as Dwight Howard and Andrew Bynum.

In Ayon, Orlando acquires a quick, strong and hustling frontcourt player whose court awareness drew praise from Hornets coaches. Ayon shot 54% last season with highs of 16 points (twice) and 17 rebounds, showing the potential to be a solid player if he can produce more consistently.

Courtesy of www.usatoday.com


Chris Paul explains why he passed on Clips extension - by Eurobasket News

Yes, Los Angeles Clippers point guard Chris Paul (6'0''-PG-85, college: Wake Forest) passed on a chance to sign a three-year, $60 million extension with the club this summer.

But no, you shouldn't read too much into that. Paul passed, he said, because he can sign a five-year, $108 million extension next summer.

He hasn't decided whether to do so, but don't read into that, either.

"I'll wait until next summer to decide everything," Paul told ESPNLosAngeles.com Saturday after officially being named to the United States Olympic team. "It's funny, ESPN doesn't put at the bottom of the ticker, like why you don't do the three-year. But I opted in for this year or I would've had the opportunity to do that again this summer."

Paul was referring to a decision he made to amend a provision in his previous contract that would've given him the opportunity to opt-out after this season. The Clippers requested this before they agreed to a multiplayer trade for Paul with the New Orleans Hornets.

Paul agreed to amend his contract after initial discussions with former general manager Neil Olshey, who'd been given permission by the Hornets to speak with him before the trade was completed. The two formed a tight bond and spoke frequently throughout the season.

But Olshey left the franchise to become the Portland Trail Blazers GM last month.

"Neil's gone and that was tough," Paul said. "Neil had a lot to do with me being here with the Clippers so I'm always going to be grateful to him for that. But he has a family to take of, things like that."

Asked if that would affect his feeling about his future with the organization, Paul said forcefully, "I'm excited about our future. Bringing in Jamal (Crawford), and obviously getting Chauncey (Billups) back. Everybody knows how I feel about that. That was huge."

Paul and Billups are close friends off the court and Paul was visibly upset when Billups was lost for the season with a ruptured Achilles tendon in February. Billups has worked so hard in his rehabilitation, though, that Paul was confident in advocating the organization make a push to retain him.

"Some guys I wouldn't be as confident about," Paul said. "Coming off that injury, I can tell you the truth, I probably wouldn't have been as much like, 'Let's go get 'em.' But with Chauncey, I'm not going to second-guess it.

"Chauncey's been working extremely hard. I know when he went down, I was tore up, he was tore up. But more so than age, it's about determination and Chauncey has that. Every time I talk to him this summer he's doing that. I'm like, 'What you doing?' He's always at rehab."

For now though, Paul is focused on his role with Team USA. He's sat out much of the first two days of practice with a sprained right thumb but doesn't expect it to limit him for more than a few days.

He's joined on the Olympic team by Clippers teammate Blake Griffin.

"This is going to be unbelievable for Blake. We've been playing pickup games out at our facility in L.A. and (Olympic teammates Carmelo Anthony and Tyson Chandler) have been there. The day Tyson was there, me, Tyson and Blake were on the same team and I think Blake realized just how much you have to talk on defense, and how tough it is to be a good defensive player.

"Being around these guys, you learn so much. Guys leave from this experience and go back to their teams with a ton of confidence."

Griffin, who had been on the bubble until a rash of injuries to some of Team USA's best front court players, said he's already learning from the experience.

"The thing I'm excited about is just playing with these guys," Griffin said. "They're all great for a reason. Seeing what they do on the court. I can pick up some of those things, and then work them into my game while I'm developing as a player."

Courtesy of ESPN


Suns withdraw qualifying offer to Aaron Brooks - by Eurobasket News

The Phoenix Suns withdrew their qualifying offer to Brooks Aaron (6'0''-PG-85, college: Oregon) on Saturday, making the point guard an unrestricted free agent.

Brooks was acquired from the Houston Rockets at the 2011 trade deadline and appeared in 25 games with Phoenix, averaging 9.6 points, 4.2 assists and 18.9 minutes. He played in China last season.

Star point guard Steve Nash left Phoenix in a sign-and-trade deal with the Los Angeles Lakers, and the Suns also have a deal in place with free-agent point guard Goran Dragic.

Dragic went to the Rockets in the 2011 deal that sent Brooks to the Suns.

Courtesy of http://sports.yahoo.com


USA announces nominees for 2012 Olympic basketball team - by Eurobasket News

Following two USA Basketball Mens National Team training sessions, USA Basketball chairman Jerry Colangelo today announced the official nominees for the12-man U.S. Olympic Team mens basketball roster. The U.S. hoops roster is pending final approval by the U.S. Olympic Committee.

We projected we would have difficulty getting down to a roster of 12, regardless of the number of injuries that have taken place, because they are such an outstanding group of people and athletes, Colangelo said. The final selections keep us in concert with our game plan to have athleticism, versatility and strong depth on our roster. I think our final roster epitomizes all of that.

'We have benefited so much from having a pool of outstanding players who are committed, and as a result the selection is difficult. But its the best challenge that you could have because everyone has been so committed', Mike Krzyzewski said. 'The guys who were not selected are in our pool, and if someone did get hurt, they are already part of our team and could be seamlessly woven in at a later date. We really appreciate the commitment of all of these guys.'

Nominated for the 2012 U.S. Olympic Team were: Carmelo Anthony (6'8''-F-84, college: Syracuse) (New York Knicks); Kobe Bryant (6'6''-G-78) (Los Angeles Lakers); Tyson Chandler (7'1''-C-82) (New York Knicks); Kevin Durant (6'9''-G/F-88, college: Texas) (Oklahoma City Thunder); Blake Griffin (6'10''-F-89, college: Oklahoma) (Los Angeles Clippers); James Harden (6'5''-G-89, college: Arizona St.) (Oklahoma City Thunder); Andre Iguodala (6'6''-G-84, college: Arizona) (Philadelphia 76ers); LeBron James (6'8''-F-84) (Miami Heat); Kevin Love (6'10''-F/C-88, college: UCLA) (Minnesota Timberwolves); Chris Paul (6'0''-PG-85, college: Wake Forest) (Los Angeles Clippers); Russell Westbrook (6'3''-PG-88, college: UCLA) (Oklahoma City Thunder); and Deron Williams (6'3''-PG-84, college: Illinois) (Brooklyn Nets).

The USA roster features five members of the 2008 gold medalist U.S. Olympic Team (Anthony, Bryant, James, Paul and Williams), five members of the gold medalist 2010 World Championship team (Chandler, Durant, Iguodala, Love and Westbrook), and two newcomers (Griffin and Harden).

The average age of the 12 U.S. players is 26.1 years of age.

The 2012 USA coaching staff is led by Duke University Hall of Fame mentor Krzyzewski, who has led the USA Basketball Mens National Team to gold medal finishes at the 2010 FIBA World Championship and 2008 Beijing Olympics. Assisting Krzyzewski is Syracuse University and Hall of Fame coach Jim Boeheim, and former NBA head coaches Mike DAntoni and Nate McMillan.

The USA National Team is currently training through July12 in Las Vegas, Nev. The Americans Las Vegas training concludes July 12 (6:00 p.m. local time) with the USA Basketball Showcase that features the USA facing the Dominican Republic at UNLVs Thomas & Mack Center.

Following the USAs training and exhibition contest in Las Vegas, the USA will move on to the nations capital, Washington, D.C., to train July 13-15 and play an exhibition contest versus Brazil at the Verizon Center on July 16 (8 p.m. local time). The game will be part of a doubleheader with the USA Basketball Womens National Team, which will face Brazils Womens National Team (5:30 p.m. local time).

The USA men will continue their preparations July 17-18 in Manchester, England, and on July 19 (7:30 p.m. local time) will play Great Britain at the Manchester Arena. The USA women will square off against the Great Britain women at the Manchester Arena on July 18 (7:30 p.m. local time).

Twenty years after the USA Dream Team made its debut in Barcelona, Spain, the U.S. returns and will conclude its tour with a pair of exhibition games against FIBAs No. 2 and No. 3 ranked world powers. Facing No. 3 ranked Argentina on July 22 (9:30 p.m. local time) at the Palau Sant Jordi in Barcelona, the USA will close out its exhibition tour against FIBAs No. 2 ranked power Spain on July 24 (9:30 p.m. local time) at the Palau Sant Jordi.

Courtesy of www.usabasketball.com


Report: Raptors, Gray agree on two-year deal - by Eurobasket News

The Toronto Raptors have re-signed centre Aaron Gray (7'0''-C-84, college: Pittsburgh) to a two-year contract according to Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo! Sports.

Gray was signed to a one-year deal by the Raptors last summer and played in 49 games, with 40 starts.

A second-round pick in 2007, Gray averaged 3.9 points, 5.7 rebounds and 16.6 minutes last season for the Raptors.

The seven-foot, 270-pound centre made $2.5 million last year. He is expected to backup incoming rookie Jonas Valanciunas (6'11''-C-92).

Courtesy of www.sportsnet.ca


Chris Paul has sprained right thumb - by Eurobasket News

The U.S. Olympic basketball team said Saturday that guard Chris Paul's (6'0''-PG-85, college: Wake Forest) injury is a sprained right thumb.

Paul was hurt Friday during the first day of training camp and had an X-ray that revealed the injury. He took part in some non-contact portions of practice Saturday, but did not scrimmage with the Americans.

The Los Angeles Clippers All-Star had a protective splint over the thumb and likely will sit out the next few scrimmages.

"Hopefully a couple of days," Paul said. "If I can get this swelling out, it will be all right."

Paul said he was hurt "trying to steal the ball, which I shouldn't have done." He had previously injured the thumb during the NBA playoffs.

The U.S. team has been weakened by injuries to Dwight Howard, Derrick Rose, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh. The Americans named their 12-man roster Saturday night.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com


NY Knicks will meet with free-agent center Marcus Camby Sunday in Houston - by Eurobasket News

The Knicks have scheduled a meeting with free-agent center Marcus Camby (6'11''-C/F-74, college: Massachusetts) on Sunday in Houston, the Daily News has learned.

Camby and Kurt Thomas are the two remaining active players from the Knicks team that reached the 1999 NBA Finals. Camby is also being courted by Miami, Dallas, San Antonio and the Brooklyn Nets. A person close to Camby called the Nets a dark horse candidate.

For the Knicks to add the 6-11 Camby, theyd either have to give him their $3.1 million mini mid-level exception or negotiate a sign-and-trade with the Rockets, Cambys most recent team. The Knicks could trade Toney Douglas, Josh Harrellson and Dan Gadzurics non-guaranteed contract of $1.4 million to the Rockets.

That same package could be used to acquire Jason Kidd from Dallas to avoid using the mini mid-level on the veteran point guard. Miami is using its mini mid-level to sign Ray Allen and therefore would need to work out a sign-and-trade to get Camby.

Houston, where the veteran center lives during the offseason, is not entirely out of the picture, either.

The Knicks traded Camby, 38, who had a falling-out with Garden chairman James Dolan, to Denver on draft night in 2002 in the ill-fated Antonio McDyess deal. Cambys teammates in Denver included Carmelo Anthony and J.R. Smith.

Courtesy of www.nydailynews.com


Grizzlies, Darrell Arthur agree on three-year deal - by Eurobasket News

The Grizzlies took another step Sunday toward solidifying their frontcourt, agreeing to terms with forward Darrell Arthur (6'9''-F-88, college: Kansas) on a three-year contract worth just over $9 million, according to a source familiar with the agreement.

Memphis tendered qualifying offers to Arthur and fellow forward Marreese Speights, both restricted free agents, in late June. The Grizzlies came to terms late last week with Speights, agreeing to pay him nearly $9 million over two years.

The third year of Arthur's deal is a player option.

Though the current free agency period started on July 1, players and teams cannot sign contracts until Wednesday. Because of Arthur's restricted status, Memphis would have had the opportunity to match any other team's offer.

The 6-foot-9, 230-pound Arthur missed all of last season with a torn right Achilles tendon suffered in the days leading up to the December start of the lockout-shortened season. In 2010-11, Arthur averaged 9.1 points and 4.3 rebounds in 20.1 minutes per game. He played in all 13 games of the Grizzlies' 2010-11 playoff run, averaging 7.1 points and 2.2 rebound per game.

Arthur, who was drafted in 2008 out of the University of Kansas, has played his entire career in Memphis.

Though much of the attention surrounding the Grizzlies during free agency has centered around the team's still unfulfilled need for shooting and a backup point guard, agreeing to terms with two important reserve forwards is also a significant step.

Courtesy of www.commercialappeal.com


Serge Ibaka: Spain's hoops talent equal with U.S. - by Eurobasket News

Serge Ibaka (6'10''-C/F-89) believes Spain's Olympic basketball team has the talent to match the U.S. squad.

He's confident the 2008 silver medalists can compete with the 2012 gold medal favorites and world champions during the Games.

"They are just like us, they also have players with a lot of talent," the Oklahoma City power forward said Saturday in his first full day of training with the Spanish team. "They are a different team to 2008, but their players are still very good."

The 22-year-old Ibaka will make his Olympic debut with Spain, which he helped guide to the European Championship title last summer soon after being nationalized. Ibaka, who is of Congolese origin, turned up at camp early to prepare for the London Olympics.

"There's no time to rest, we have to find our rhythm for the competition already for these friendly games we have, see how we feel," said Ibaka, who helped lead Oklahoma City to the NBA Finals in June before losing to the Miami Heat in five games. LeBron James, of the Heat, and the Lakers' Kobe Bryant lead the American lineup, which includes Ibaka's Oklahoma City teammates Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook and James Harden.

Spain has the bulk of its 2008 team -- including Pau Gasol, brother Marc and Rudy Fernandez -- returning, aside from injured point guard Ricky Rubio.

Spain has several exhibitions before opening against China on July 29 in London, including one against the U.S. in Barcelona on July 24. If the pair lives up to their billing as competition favorites, they won't meet again until the Aug. 12 final after being drawn in different groups.

"We should only worry about our own preparations because it's a long road to the final," Ibaka said. "The most important thing is to give our all to get there."

Courtesy of ESPN


Trail Blazers president Larry Miller resigns, will reunite with Nike - by Eurobasket News

Larry Miller, the top executive of the Trail Blazers for the past five years, has resigned as president and will return to Nike, The Oregonian has learned.

Miller, 61, had two years remaining on his contract with the Blazers, but he informed owner Paul Allen of his resignation on Friday. Miller will rejoin Nike later this summer as president of Brand Jordan, the same title he held from 1999 through 2006.

It felt like it is the right time, and the right thing for me, Miller said Saturday morning.

Affable and well-liked within the walls of the Blazers, Miller was an understated leader who preferred to stay out of the limelight while allowing his employees to do their jobs. He was an engaged president with both his staff and the public, easy with conversation in the office and quick with a handshake on the concourses of the Rose Garden, where he often roamed before games. His style improved morale and bridged a divide between the front office and fan base after the rigid and confrontational reign of Steve Patterson, his predecessor.

My approach within the organization was to allow people to do their jobs and give support, Miller said. I wanted to let everyone know their job was important and create an atmosphere of family, and I think people bought into that, which helped people feel good about the Trail Blazers again.

Under his leadership, the Blazers started their current streak of 192 sellouts at the Rose Garden and have led the Western Conference in average attendance for the past four seasons. Also, the Rose Garden became the first American sports franchise to achieve Gold LEED Certification for an arena. He also served on the NBA board of governors in owner Paul Allens stead, and was on the labor committee during the negotiations for the leagues new collective bargaining agreement.

He drew criticism in the past year when his role was expanded to include more say in the basketball operations of the franchise in the wake of the firing of general manager Rich Cho. Miller headed the search for a replacement, but the process dragged on for more than a year before Neil Olshey was hired on June 4. During the general manager vacancy, Miller became the voice of the franchise, a role with which he was uncomfortable, and sometimes it revealed a less-than-precise knowledge of the nuances of basketball operations management.

His specialty was numbers and finance - he earned a degree in accounting at Temple and a masters degree in business from LaSalle - and during his tenure, the Blazers books became stabilized. Three years before Miller was hired, the Blazers lost control of the Rose Garden as Allen entered into bankruptcy. Allen bought back the arena in 2007, and five months later hired Miller away from Nike to run a tighter ship.

We got more focused on the bottom line, Miller said. Our goal became not only to win on the court, but off the court, and that means running a viable business.

Not everything was perfect during his tenure as the product on the floor endured the highs of a 54-win season and the lows of crippling injuries to organizational foundations Brandon Roy and Greg Oden. He was also part of one of the most turbulent front offices in the NBA, as three executives - assistant general manager Tom Penn, and general managers Kevin Pritchard and Cho - were fired in a 14-month span.

But five years later, Miller says he feels comfortable he is leaving the Blazers in a better place.

We dealt with a lot of issues, but the organization was able to come through those issues and move forward, Miller said. To me, being a president is about having the right people in the right place, then providing support and a vision.

Courtesy of www.oregonlive.com


LeBron 'excited' about Allen's addition to Heat - by Eurobasket News

Miami Heat superstar LeBron James (6'8''-F-84) can't hide his excitement when it comes to his newest teammate Ray Allen (6'5''-G-75, college: Connecticut).

"What do you want to know?" he said with a smile, when asked about Allen's arrival Saturday night after Team USA was announced. "I'm excited. I'm excited. It was someone that we really wanted.

"It was someone that we pursued and we have a lot of confidence in our front office and they went and did it, so we're excited to have Ray. Another guy that can stretch the floor for us, another guy that can make plays not only for himself, but for others, and (he's) a champion. So he's going to fit right into what we want to do as a team and it's exciting."

Allen's agent Jim Tanner confirmed to ESPN.com on Friday that his client had decided to sign with the reigning NBA champion. It was a move that James, the reigning league MVP, was happy about.

James said Allen will fit in with the core of a group that just won the title and he believes Allen's veteran leadership and experience will help his team. James admitted he had some doubts that Allen would decide to leave the Boston Celtics to come play with the Heat.

"Yeah, absolutely," James said. "You still don't know until (July) 11th when guys can officially sign, but you never know where a guy's mind is, but we're happy that he chose us. We're going to welcome him, Miami's going to welcome him and his family with open arms. We look forward to him joining us."

James, who also captured the NBA Finals MVP, doesn't expect his mindset to change even though everyone will be gunning for the Heat given their recent success.

"That doesn't change for me," he said. "It's been like that for me since ... '05-'06. I've been in that position where I felt like I was being hunted and I didn't even have a championship. My approach doesn't change."

Courtesy of http://abclocal.go.com


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


U17 World Championship: USA defended the title - by Eurobasket News

USA U17-Australia U17 95:62

USA defended the title at the U17 World Championship. The winners overcame Australia 95:62 in the Final game of the competition.
Pre-tournament favorites USA has looked unstoppable all tournament long and rightfully reached the trophy.
USA started with 22-14 and never looked behind. They added 16-10 in the second period as FRANKAMP brought 38:24. Dante Exum (6'4''-PG-95) and Justice Winslow (6'6''-F-96) gave their teams the first points in the second half and later USA added 26-19 in the third quarter. FRANKAMP scored for 66:43 early in the fourth, while Dante Exum responded for 68:49. After NUNN and NDUKA-ANYA free throws Conner Frankamp (6'1''-G-95) nailed three for 86:59 and then Jahlil Okafor-Benton (6'11''-C-95) delivered two for 88:61. Justice Winslow scored another two from the free throw line, while DOMINGO scored three for 93:62. Jahlil Okafor-Benton made the final successful shot for the winners.
Conner Frankamp top-scored for the winners with 22 points and Jahlil Okafor-Benton nailed 17. Justice Winslow delivered 13, while Jabari Parker (6'8''-F-95) notched 12. Dante Exum ended up with 21 points and Nicholas Duncan (6'8''-F-95) scored 10 in defeat.
In 2010 USA U17 became the winner of the U17 World Championship in Hamburg, Germany. The favorites overcame European best team Poland U17 111:80.

USA U17: Conner Frankamp 22, Jahlil Okafor-Benton 17, Justice Winslow 13, Jabari Parker 12
Australia U17: Dante Exum 21, Nicholas Duncan 10


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


Webster follows familiar route - by Mike Lacey



The emergence of Tai Jack Webster (186-G-95) as an international player does not come as a surprise to followers of basketball in New Zealand but the timing does. Just 17 years of age, Tai seemed to have been gifted the recent Tall Blacks trip as a development player. Unlikely to play many minutes, his role seemed to be to keep some of the senior players honest on the practice court and keep the bench warm alongside some of the other rookies come game time. As things transpired this was to be far from the case. He announced himself with 8 points on debut versus Brazil and piled on 18 points off the bench against Greece in warm up games before going on to play a significant part in the Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Venezuela. Despite the Tall Blacks bowing out of the tournament, Websters credentials were enhanced considerably, especially when he scored a game high 21 points (5 from 6 three pointers) in the 68-64 defeat of Angola.
Webster is a product of the North Harbour Basketball Association - Westlake Boys High School New Zealand Breakers development path way that many of the Tall Blacks have trod in recent times. New Zealands best player, Kirk Penney was the forerunner and he has been followed in recent years by Tom Abercrombie, Corey Webster, Rob Loe, Jarrod Kenny, Isaac Fotu and now the younger Webster. Fotu did deviate from the mould slightly, attending rival High School, Rangitoto College for his secondary education.
Tai was primarily coached by his father Tony Webster, a former standout player in the New Zealand NBL, in his formative years but in recent times has come under the tutorship of Westlake coach Ben Eves and NZ Breakers Academy head coach Judd Flavell.
He has played age group basketball for North Harbour since primary school days and this year was a star turn at both the Under 19 and Under 21 Nationals where unfortunately his Harbour teams finished runners up at both championships. Webster did taste champagne at the NBL championships when the Auckland Pirates lifted the trophy (Webster was a development player on the team). Last year he was a member of the New Zealand team that won the inaugural FIBA 3x3 Youth World Championships but even that did not suggest he was ready to perform to such a high standard on the senior international stage. His services will be in high demand in the coming years but it is to be imagined that whatever the future holds Tai Webster will not forget his North Harbour Westlake Breakers links.



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


Nigeria books ticket to London - by Iwedi Ojinmah

Nigeria survived a 3rd quarter run by the Dominican Republic to secure the final ticket to the London Olympics last night in Caracas 88-73.

D Tigers simply had too many weapons and brought all to bear. Despite being forced to change from their lucky All green kit -in which they are yet to be beaten - the Nigerians looked just as comfortable in their back up All white.

Diogu was a monster especially in the 4th quarter when the West Africans repeatedly dialed his number. But so was Aminu Junior who swatted away Dominican balls all night ending up with a five of the Nigeria's eight blocks. His game was of such quality that the hardest decision of the night was who would win MVP, him or Diogu?

A beaming Diogu did.

The Dominicans though were no slouches and despite falling behind by double digits went on repeated runs that saw them tie once and come within two the second time. One Martinez rained destruction from far and the other went through the middle almost all night long. University of Kentucky's Coach Calipari and NBA journey man Dale Harris were at the helm of the Dominican ship and their savvy showed .

But so did Coach Bakare's. He used his bench perfectly - kick starting his defence as well as attack with the substitution of his role players. Even absolutely horrible shooting from the line could not derail his cats whose eyes never left the prize.

At the end of night it was him doing the dancing in the middle of the floor while his players celebrated with their fans high up in the stands.

Considering that Nigeria beat both the number four and five teams in the world before dismissing the team from the Caribbean, there is no doubt that the rightful team along with Russia and Lithuania are going to the London Olympics.

She now joins Tunisia as Africa's two representatives and we now know that she has the potential to go far in the tournament. But that is a story for another day.

Today is for a well deserved Nigerian celebration.


OQT: First London, then World Domination - by Olusegun Ikuesan

For most countries, playing at the Olympics is the ultimate goal, but for Nigeria it is just the beginning.

"Right now we are trying to become a world power, said inspirational forward Ike Diogu.

Nigeria qualified for their first Olympic Games with an 88-73 victory over the Dominican Republic in the final game of the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament.

It was a remarkable effort given only three players returned from last years team, the group had only two weeks preparation, and they had to defeat the worlds fourth and fifth ranked teams along the way.

The group we have this year is not like any group we've ever had. When we assembled the first thing coach said was lets make history, Diogu said.

(But) not just a one year thing, we want to have sustainable success and thats what we're working towards.

Coach Ayo Bakare, who has masterminded Nigerias relentless defensive style and exciting brand of offence, said his teams performance has been against the odds.

"The countrys focus is on football, he said.

"We came here with less than one per cent of the funds football would have got if they had the same opportunity.

But Bakare believes the teams success and the entertaining style they play will deliver basketball a higher place in the pecking order.

"Its changing already, he said.

"We had a phone call from the minister, the ambassador has been at every game. For us, if we have this exposure it begins to work for us.

Captain Olumide Oyedeji thinks the hierarchy is already in place on the court for this young Nigerian team to become one of the worlds elite.

"We're trying to build the team for the next 10 years, he said.

"Hopefully they can continue learning and continue growing, keep bringing young players in and us older players keep tutoring them and showing the way.

For now though, the way is a trip to London for what should be an enthralling Olympic debut.

Courtesy: fiba.com


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

Standings

Standings
Group A
1. Argentina0-0
2. France0-0
3. Tunisia0-0
4. USA0-0
Group B
1. Australia0-0
2. Brazil0-0
3. Chile0-0
4. U.Kingdom0-0
5. Spain0-0
Group Qualification Gr.A
1. Greece2-0
2. P.Rico1-1
3. Jordan0-2
Group Qualification Gr.B
1. Nigeria2-1
2. Venezuela1-1
3. Lithuania1-1
Group Qualification Gr.C
1. Russia2-0
2. Dominican R.1-2
3. S.Korea0-2
Group Qualification Gr.D
1. Angola1-1
2. FYR Macedo.1-1
3. N.Zealand1-1

Additional Qualifying Round: Round 6

Jul. 8: DOM - NGR 73-88


Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Bo MCCALEBB
  USA
  (178-PG-85)
  Avg: 26.3
 1. McCalebb, MKD26.3 
 2. Mingas, ANG20.3 
 3. Spanoulis, GRE19.3 
 4. Kleiza, LTU19.3 
 5. Horford, DOM18.0 
 6. Diogu, NGR16.6 
 7. Kirilenko, RUS16.3 
 8. Ramos, PUR14.7 
 9. Fridzon, RUS14.5 
 10. Martinez, DOM14.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jack Michael MARTINEZ
  DOM
  (201-F-81)
  Avg: 13.8
 1. Martinez, DOM13.8 
 2. Diogu, NGR10.8 
 3. Horford, DOM9.4 
 4. Gomes, ANG8.0 
 5. Kirilenko, RUS8.0 
 6. Samardziski, MKD7.7 
 7. Maciulis, LTU7.5 
 8. Antic, MKD7.0 
 9. Ramos, PUR6.0 
 10. Khryapa, RUS5.8 
Assists Per Game
 Mantas KALNIETIS
  LTU
  (195-G-86)
  Avg: 7
 1. Kalnietis, LTU7.0 
 2. McCalebb, MKD6.0 
 3. Spanoulis, GRE5.7 
 4. Shved, RUS5.0 
 5. Arroyo, PUR4.7 
 6. Jasikevicius, LTU4.5 
 7. Coronado, DOM4.0 
 8. Kirilenko, RUS4.0 
 9. Khryapa, RUS3.8 
 10. Ponkrashov, RUS3.5 
Steals Per Game
 Andrei KIRILENKO
  USA
  (206-F-81)
  Avg: 3.3
 1. Kirilenko, RUS3.3 
 2. Dagunduro, NGR2.6 
 3. Khryapa, RUS2.0 
 4. Pocius, LTU1.8 
 5. Kalnietis, LTU1.5 
 6. Fortuna, DOM1.4 
 7. Stojanovski, MKD1.3 
 8. Balkman, PUR1.3 
 9. McCalebb, MKD1.3 
 10. Gomes, ANG1.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Al-Farouq AMINU
  (206-F-90)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Aminu, NGR1.8 
 2. Javtokas, LTU1.0 
 3. Oyedeji, NGR1.0 
 4. Sanchez, PUR0.7 
 5. Mavroeidis, GRE0.7 
 6. Mozgov, RUS0.7 
 7. Peavy, PUR0.7 
 8. Samardziski, MKD0.7 
 9. Bourousis, GRE0.7 
 10. Fridzon, RUS0.5 


Diogu sends Nigeria to London - by Eurobasket News

Dominican Republic - Nigeria 73-88
Diogu sends Nigeria to London as they have qualified for the Olympic Games. The African team overcame Dominican Republic 88:73 in the game for the last ticket from the Olympic Qualifying Tournament. Nigeria opened the game with a 24-18 surge in the opening period. They added 23-21 in the second frame and had 47:39 lead at the halftime. The third quarter belonged to Dominican Republic that started to reduce the gap. Francisco Garcia (201-F/G-81, college: Louisville) struck a trademark triple and the three-quarter time score was 59:57 to Nigeria. The Dominicans were not done and a Coronado triple followed by two Baez free throws squared the game with 5 minutes to go. Nigeria however dominated the rest of the game. They pushed the tempo for good and due to 29-16 in the last stanza won the game and punched the ticket to London. Ike Diogu (208-F/C-83, college: Arizona St.) erupted with 25 points and 10 rebounds, while Al-Farouq Aminu (206-F-90, college: Wake Forest) notched 14. Derrick Obasohan (198-F-81, agency: Beo Basket, college: Texas Arlington) posted 11 and Alade Aminu (210-C-87, college: Georgia Tech) added 9. Francisco Garcia ended up with 17 points in the losing effort, whilst Jack Michael Martinez (201-F-81, agency: Paris Global Sports) followed him with 16. Baez poured in 13 and Alfred Horford (208-F/C-86, college: Florida) as well as Gil added 12 apiece.


USA announces nominees for 2012 Olympic basketball team - by Eurobasket News

Following two USA Basketball Mens National Team training sessions, USA Basketball chairman Jerry Colangelo today announced the official nominees for the12-man U.S. Olympic Team mens basketball roster. The U.S. hoops roster is pending final approval by the U.S. Olympic Committee.

We projected we would have difficulty getting down to a roster of 12, regardless of the number of injuries that have taken place, because they are such an outstanding group of people and athletes, Colangelo said. The final selections keep us in concert with our game plan to have athleticism, versatility and strong depth on our roster. I think our final roster epitomizes all of that.

'We have benefited so much from having a pool of outstanding players who are committed, and as a result the selection is difficult. But its the best challenge that you could have because everyone has been so committed', Mike Krzyzewski said. 'The guys who were not selected are in our pool, and if someone did get hurt, they are already part of our team and could be seamlessly woven in at a later date. We really appreciate the commitment of all of these guys.'

Nominated for the 2012 U.S. Olympic Team were: Carmelo Anthony (6'8''-F-84, college: Syracuse) (New York Knicks); Kobe Bryant (6'6''-G-78) (Los Angeles Lakers); Tyson Chandler (7'1''-C-82) (New York Knicks); Kevin Durant (6'9''-G/F-88, college: Texas) (Oklahoma City Thunder); Blake Griffin (6'10''-F-89, college: Oklahoma) (Los Angeles Clippers); James Harden (6'5''-G-89, college: Arizona St.) (Oklahoma City Thunder); Andre Iguodala (6'6''-G-84, college: Arizona) (Philadelphia 76ers); LeBron James (6'8''-F-84) (Miami Heat); Kevin Love (6'10''-F/C-88, college: UCLA) (Minnesota Timberwolves); Chris Paul (6'0''-PG-85, college: Wake Forest) (Los Angeles Clippers); Russell Westbrook (6'3''-PG-88, college: UCLA) (Oklahoma City Thunder); and Deron Williams (6'3''-PG-84, college: Illinois) (Brooklyn Nets).

The USA roster features five members of the 2008 gold medalist U.S. Olympic Team (Anthony, Bryant, James, Paul and Williams), five members of the gold medalist 2010 World Championship team (Chandler, Durant, Iguodala, Love and Westbrook), and two newcomers (Griffin and Harden).

The average age of the 12 U.S. players is 26.1 years of age.

The 2012 USA coaching staff is led by Duke University Hall of Fame mentor Krzyzewski, who has led the USA Basketball Mens National Team to gold medal finishes at the 2010 FIBA World Championship and 2008 Beijing Olympics. Assisting Krzyzewski is Syracuse University and Hall of Fame coach Jim Boeheim, and former NBA head coaches Mike DAntoni and Nate McMillan.

The USA National Team is currently training through July12 in Las Vegas, Nev. The Americans Las Vegas training concludes July 12 (6:00 p.m. local time) with the USA Basketball Showcase that features the USA facing the Dominican Republic at UNLVs Thomas & Mack Center.

Following the USAs training and exhibition contest in Las Vegas, the USA will move on to the nations capital, Washington, D.C., to train July 13-15 and play an exhibition contest versus Brazil at the Verizon Center on July 16 (8 p.m. local time). The game will be part of a doubleheader with the USA Basketball Womens National Team, which will face Brazils Womens National Team (5:30 p.m. local time).

The USA men will continue their preparations July 17-18 in Manchester, England, and on July 19 (7:30 p.m. local time) will play Great Britain at the Manchester Arena. The USA women will square off against the Great Britain women at the Manchester Arena on July 18 (7:30 p.m. local time).

Twenty years after the USA Dream Team made its debut in Barcelona, Spain, the U.S. returns and will conclude its tour with a pair of exhibition games against FIBAs No. 2 and No. 3 ranked world powers. Facing No. 3 ranked Argentina on July 22 (9:30 p.m. local time) at the Palau Sant Jordi in Barcelona, the USA will close out its exhibition tour against FIBAs No. 2 ranked power Spain on July 24 (9:30 p.m. local time) at the Palau Sant Jordi.

Courtesy of www.usabasketball.com


*****************************************************
  PBL   


Owner of Edge, Drive says he wants to buy the Coliseum - by Allen White



BLOOMINGTON Mayor Steve Stockton said he has an obligation to meet with Jim Morris about the businessmans proposal to purchase the city-owned U.S. Cellular Coliseum.

Until we sit down and talk I have no way of gauging how serious it is, but I think were willing to at least talk to anybody that has had two winning teams here, Stockton said.

He said he plans to meet with Morris, who is trying to sell two Coliseum-based sports teams that he has owned for less than a year, and City Manager David Hales sometime over the next couple of weeks. Out of fairness to somebody who has played a role in the Coliseum, however brief, we should at least sit down and share our thoughts with each other, Stockton said.

Morris earlier this week announced he was looking for buyers for his Central Illinois Drive basketball team and the Bloomington Edge indoor football team. Despite winning records, the teams need more support from the community and better agreements with the city for long-term financial success, Morris has said.

The bottom line is they (the teams) dont make a lot of dough, Morris said Friday.

He said earlier in the week he couldnt justify the amount of his attention the teams require. Morris also owns the Sonic Americas Drive-In in Normal, Roar Food Group LLC and four other Bloomington-Normal companies.

The publicly owned Coliseum is managed by Central Illinois Arena Management, a private company that has posted operating profits in only one of the six years its operated the facility.

The city still pays about $2 million each year toward paying down the $29.5 million in bonds issued in 2004 to build the facility. That sum, plus $928,000 in annual depreciation, is not factored into CIAMs operating profits and losses.

Despite the facilitys debt and CIAMs low operating profits, Morris said hes still interested in buying the facility. When youre privately held I dont feel like anybodys telling us what to do, Morris said.

Morris said he has no criticism of the city or CIAM.


*****************************************************
  PHILIPPINES   


SEABA Cup: Philippine prove supremacy, edge Thailand for title - by Eurobasket News

Thailand - Philippines 52:74

Philippines defended their SEABA Cup title. They knocked down Thailand at SEABA Cup last round to clinch the top position. The victory also punched the ticket to Fiba Asia Championship in Tokyo for Philippines. Marcus Douthit (210-C/F-80, agency: Edge Sports, college: Providence) finished with 17 points and 11 rebounds to pace the winners.
Philippines jumped to an early lead and secured a 22:8 advantage at the first break. Philippines extended the margin in the second quarter. They accumulated a 26-point buffer at the interval 41:15. Thailand and Philippines traded baskets in the third quarter as the visitors stayed in charge. The hosts narrowed the gap at 17-point mark midway through the final quarter but Philippines bounced back late in the game sealing a comfortable win at the end. Chico Lanete (183-G-79) delivered 12 points for Philippines. Christopher Tiu (178-PG-85) had 11 points for the winners. Wutipong Dasom answered with 16 points for Thailand. Sukhdavb Ghogar netted 12 points and 7 rebounds in the loss.

Thailand: Wutipong Dasom 16, Sukhdavb Ghogar 12
Philippines: Marcus Douthit 17+11 boards, Chico Lanete 12, Christopher Tiu 11


2012 PBA Governors Cup Roundup: July 6-8, 2012 - by Enzo Flojo

BGY. GINEBRA KINGS over MERALCO BOLTS, 89-76
Winning back-to-back has been elusive for the Barangay Ginebra Kings.

But with a fresh start in the semifinals, Ginebra ran roughshod over the Meralco Bolts anew, 89-76, on Friday at the Ynares Center in Antipolo City to post consecutive victories for the first time in the Governors Cup.

Ginebra coach Siot Tanquingcen wanted his team to take care of the ball to limit opportunities for the Bolts, and it worked.

Kerby Raymundo led the way for the Gin Kings, coming up with a double-double performance of 16 points and 13 rebounds on 8-of-12 shooting from the field.

It was the second lopsided victory by Ginebra over Meralco this conference. The Gin Kings won over the Bolts, 100-73 last June 2 in Lapu-Lapu City.

High-scoring Meralco guard Mac Cardona had a quiet 12 points and was hardly a factor for his squad.

The Gin Kings outmuscled the Bolts in the battle of the boards, 61-41. Ginebra also clobbered Meralco on second chance points, 20-6.

Ginebra posted leads as high as 25, the last of which happened early in the fourth quarter, 79-54.

GIN 89 Raymundo 16, Bozeman 13, Maliksi 12, Caguioa 10, Cortez 8, W. Wilson 6, Menk 6, Ababou 5, Villanueva 5, Helterbrand 5, Maierhofer 2, Hatfield 1, Mamaril 0.
MER 76 West 22, Taulava 17, Mercado 12, Cardona 12, Hugnatan 9, Ross 2, Artadi 2, Bulawan 0, Ballesteros 0, Daa 0, Reyes 0, Macapagal 0.
QS: 25-10, 43-30, 73-50, 89-76

PETRON BLAZE BOOSTERS over RAIN OR SHINE ELASTO-PAINTERS, 90-88
Arwind Santos turned from goat to hero in the last seven seconds of the game, helping the Petron Blaze Boosters escape a gritty Rain or Shine five, 90-88.

Santoss put-back off a missed shot by Alex Cabagnot gave the Boosters a 90-86 lead and proved to be the insurance basket the team needed to pull out the hard-earned victory.

Rain or Shine threatened to steal the game late after trailing by as many as 23 points in the first half.

Prior to his crucial follow-up shot, Santos committed two crucial blunders late in the game, including a foul on a basket by Jamelle Cornley that cut the Petron lead to just four points, 88-84. Luckily for Santos, Cornley failed to complete the three-point play.

In the next play, new Petron Blaze import Marcus Faison lost his balance and turned the ball over, allowing Gabe Norwood to score in transition and moved Rain or Shine to within a basket.

But Santos made up for his lapses, and the 6-foot-4 forward had his crucial tip-in in the ensuing possession.

Rain or Shine scored on its next offensive trip a jumper from Cornley - but time ran out on them, allowing Petron to notch its sixth win in 10 games and forge a tie for third to fourth places with the Barangay Ginebra Kings.

PET 90 Faison 20, Yeo 14, Santos 12, Washington 11, Cabagnot 9, Lutz 7, Reyes 6, Miranda 6, Pena 5, Baclao 0, Hontiveros 0.
ROS 88 Cornley 36, Lee 15, Norwood 10, Chan 10, Cruz 7, Belga 6, Matias 2, Tang 2, Arana 0, Quinahan 0, Buenafe 0, Ibanes 0.
QS: 29-24, 56-39, 72-62, 90-88

B-MEG LLAMADOS over TALK N TEXT TROPANG TEXTERS, 94-91
With James Yap riding the bench due to back spasms, B-MEG turned to its unsung heroes to help finish the job.

Rafi Reavis, Yancy de Ocampo, and Mark Barroca stepped up in the absence of the Llamados key players as B-Meg came from behind to defeat Talk N Text, 94-91, in the first televised basketball game at the new SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

Import Marqus Blakely had a monster line of 26 points, 20 rebounds, three assists, five steals and four blocks. He got ample support from Reavis and De Ocampo, who combined for 22 points and nine rebounds, and Barroca, who added seven points and eight rebounds.

Already missing JC Intal and Joe Devance, who is out for the conference, B-Meg lost Yap in the first half because of back problems.

The Llamados picked up their seventh win in 10 games, putting them a game behind the league-leading Rain or Shine Elasto Painters.

The Llamados trailed by as many as 11 points in the first period, 27-16, on a basket by Paul Harris.

But a 12-3 run in the second period, capped by Marc Pingis back-to-back baskets, tied the game at 31-all.

From then on, it was a see-saw battle until the final minute of the match.

Split charities by Josh Urbiztondo in the last 40 seconds gave the Llamados a 94-88 lead, but the Tropang Texters refused to fold up easily.

Larry Fonacier hit a three-pointer in the next play, then Jayson Castro forced a turnover on Barroca in the next play, allowing Talk N Text another opportunity to tie the game with a three-pointer.

But Ranidel de Ocampos attempt went off the mark. After Simon missed two free throws in the Llamados next offensive trip, De Ocampo lost the ball on the rebound play allowing B-MEG to preserve the win.

BML 94 Blakely 26, Urbiztondo 14, Pingris 12, Reavis 12, De Ocampo 10, Simon 8, Barroca 7, Villanueva 5, Yap 0.
TNT 91 Harris 24, Alapag 17, Castro 15, Williams 13, Fonacier 9, Aguilar 8, De Ocampo 3, Reyes 2, Aban 0, Lao 0, Peek 0.
QS: 19-27, 39-49, 67-67, 94-91

RAIN OR SHINE ELASTO-PAINTERS over MERALCO BOLTS, 99-86
Rain or Shine bucked the ejection of coach Yeng Guiao late in the first half and scored a 99-86 win over Meralco to get back on track for its first ever finals appearance Sunday in the PBA Governors Cup semifinals at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum.

Guiao was thrown out with 2.9 seconds remaining in the second period after getting back-to-back technical fouls, but this did not dampen the spirit of the Elasto-Painters.

Beau Belga, rookie Paul Lee and import Jamelle Cornley led Rain or Shines decisive run in the fourth period to bounce back from a loss to Petron Blaze and improve the teams league-leading win-loss mark to 9-2.

The Bolts were still in the thick of things after Mario West completed a three-point play to give his team a 76-75 advantage with under nine minutes remaining.

But the troika of Belga, Lee and Cornley anchored a 21-6 explosion capped by Lees three-pointer to put the game out of reach, 96-82, 2:32 left in the game.

Cornley led the Elasto Painters with 21 points and 14 rebounds while Lee added 16 points. Ronjay Buenafe chipped in 10.

West led all scorers with 33 points for Meralco, which absorbed its second straight loss in the semifinals to bomb out in the race for the four-of-five incentive.

Mark Cardona and Chris Ross netted 19 and 15 points respectively for the squad of coach Ryan Gregorio.

ROS 99 - Cornley 21, Lee 16, Buenafe 10, Belga 8, Chan 8, Ibanes 8, Norwood 7, Arana 7, Quinahan 6, Cruz 5, Rodriguez 3.
MER 86 - West 33, Cardona 19, Ross 15, Reyes 11, Hugnatan 4, Bulawan 2, Mercado 2, Macapagal 0, Taulava 0.
QS: 26-13, 45-44, 68-71, 99-86

BGY. GINEBRA KINGS over PETRON BLAZE BOOSTERS, 87-85
Cedric Bozeman wrote the perfect ending to Barangay Ginebras momentous night.

Bozeman drove to the baseline and hit a long floater with 0.3 seconds left to lift the Kings to a pulsating 87-85 win over Petron Blaze for their second straight win in the PBA Governors Cup semifinals Sunday night at the jam-packed SMART-Araneta Coliseum.

On the night that the league paid tribute to basketball icon Robert Jaworski, Ginebra displayed its old never-say-die spirit in turning back the Boosters to stay unbeaten in the semis and improve its standing to 7-4.

Bozeman actually had a rough night, scoring just 13 points on 5-of-13 shooting, but made up for it with his game-winner to prevent Petron from ruining the night for the Ginebra franchise.

Caguioa was brilliant especially in the second half, when he poured in 17 of his team-high 25 points. But Petron denied him the ball in the last play, which came after Alex Cabagnot knotted the score at 85-all with a right-handed lay-up with 15.9 seconds remaining.

It was a sorry loss for Petron, which appeared poised to spoil the evening for die-hard Ginebra loyalists after controlling most of the game.

Caguioa, Rico Villanueva, Rico Maierhofer, Dylan Ababou and Bozeman led the Ginebra fourth quarter rally with gutsy plays on both ends of the court.

Ababou had a crucial three-point play after Maierhofer muffed two free throws that gave Ginebra an 85-83 lead.

Marcus Faison led Petron with 19 points. Chris Lutz chipped in 17 for the Boosters, whose win record fell to 6-5, including 1-1 in the semis.

GIN 87 - Caguioa 25, Bozeman 13, Ababou 13, Maierhofer 10, Villanueva 8, Raymundo 8, Helterbrand 4, Cortez 3, Hatfield 3, Maliksi 0, Wilson W. 0, Mamaril 0.
PET 85 - Faison 19, Lutz 17, Washington 11, Hontiveros 11, Santos 9, Yeo 6, Cabagnot 6, Pena 4, Miranda 2, Reyes 0, Ildefonso 0.
QS: 15-26, 34-42, 58-69, 87-85

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



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


Russia University team won over Tunisia - by Eurobasket News

Russia University team won over Tunisia at Stankovic Cup, but then lost to China in Day 3. After the first loss from Australian team in Day 1, the Russian team fell at 1-2 record.
In Day 2 Russia overcame Tunisia 63:53. Nikita Barinov (200-F-91) top-scored for the winners with 14 points and Lasarev posted 12.
Tonight China overcame Russia University team 73:67. The latter grabbed 20-13 in the opening period, but failed later in the game. China responded with 24-12 in the second frame and added 16-14 in the third period. Russia came up with 21-20 in the last quarter but it was not enough to upset the favorites. Jianlian Yi (213-F/C-87) erupted with 28 points and 17 rebounds. Ivan Strebkov (190-PG-91) had 13 points in the losing effort.


Unics target Kaimakoglou - by Anton Zirkov

Unics Kazan are targeting Greek forward Kostas Kaimakoglou (206-C/F-83) of Panathinaikos.
The Tatrastans made the Greek a lucrative contract offer and are in pole position to land him.
Galatasaray are also very keen on Kaimakoglou but can't compete with the offer of Unics.furthermore,Kazan are offering the Greek a Euroleague basketball next season,while the turks only play in the Eurocup.
Pruduct of Near East,where he played there two seasons (2002-2004),then moved to Maroussi where he played 6 seasons in a row (2004-2010) and then moving to greek giants Panathinaikos.
Last season Kaimakoglou avereged 7.9ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.3apg in the Euroleague and 7.8ppg, 4.2rpg, 1.3apg in the Greek league.



*****************************************************
  SEBL   

Standings

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



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


Serbia start preparation for Eurobasket qualifications - by Ivan Milenkovic

Serbian national team, led by Dusan Ivkovic (agency: Beo Basket ), will have their first training session for Eurobasket qualifications on Tuesday. In comparison to previous years, they will prepare mostly in Serbia, not abroad. There are changes in coaching staff, too. New assistants of Duda Ivkovic are Vlada Vukoicic, Dragan Nikolic and Goran Topic.

Regarding roster for qualifications, there were 24 players on initial list. Novica Velickovic, Kosta Perovic and Stefan Markovic are injured, Andreja Milutinovic and Mladen Jeremic were cut, while Vladimir Micov and Vladimir Stimac were added later. On Sunday, Milovan Rakovic and Miroslav Raduljica didn't come to gathering of national team and confirmed rumours that they don't want to play for Serbia. It means that 19 players will fight to play in qualifications this summer. There are doubts regarding status of captain Nenad Krstic and Vladimir Micov who have injury problems.

Current list: Milos Teodosic, Milenko Tepic, Aleksandar Rasic, Vladimir Micov, Danilo Andjusic, Nemanja Jaramaz, Nemanja Nedovic, Ivan Paunic, Marko Keselj, Nemanja Bjelica, Vladimir Lucic, Dusko Savanovic, Zoran Erceg, Milan Macvan, Dragan Labovic, Nenad Krstic, Dejan Musli, Mile Ilic and Vladimir Stimac.

Serbia will play first qualifying game against Iceland in Reykjavik on August 14th. Other teams in Group A are Montenegro, Israel, Slovakia and Estonia. It means that Serbian national team should qualify for Eurobasket in Slovenia next year, but they must play serious in all 10 games.


Serbian U20 National team - by Zoran Popovic

Head coach of Serbian U20 National team Aleksandar Dzikic (agency: Beo Basket ) announced final list of players of U20 European Championship in Slovenia. On the final list of players are:
Aleksandar Cvetkovic, Nenad Miljenovic, Nemanja Dangubic, Djordje Drenovac, Marko Grujanicic, Petar Lambic, Luka Mitrovic, Nemanja Besovic, Bogdan Bogdanovic, Stefan Nastic, Marko Lukovic and Ivan Marinkovic.
Serbian U20 National team is in group A with National teams of Montenegro, Germany and France. First match our prospects play against Montenegro, July 12.


U16 Serbia wins tournament in Zrenjanin - by Eurobasket News

U16 Serbia is the winner of international tournament in Zrenjanin. In the last day of the tournament Serbia handed 70-62 loss to Greece (13-25, 23-12, 18-12, 16-13). Stefano Peno led the winners with 20 points (6 of 9 from behind the arc). Djokovic helped with 18 points in this victory.
In Day Two, U16 Serbia failed to U16 Greece 53-67 (7-13, 15-25, 18-13, 12-16). Pavlovic and Jovanovic scored 12 pts each in this defeat.
Serbia was better than Ukraine in Day One. The home squad celebrated 90-75 victory in this meeting. Nikola Pavlovic top-scored for the winners with 20 points and Stefan Lazarevic added 17 points, plus 5 rebounds. Djokovic and Stefan Peno added 12 points each. First quarter belonged to Ukraine 24-26, but after that Serbia drastically improved its defense limiting Ukraine to 12 points for the next ten minutes. The hosts scored 18 at the other side for 42-38 lead at the halftime. After almost leveled Q3, Serbia shined in the last period (23-11) to secure comfortable victory.


*****************************************************
  SINGAPORE   


SEABA Cup: Indonesia rout Singapore to finish second - by Eurobasket News

Indonesia - Singapore 65:51

Indonesia claimed the second place at the SEABA Cup held in Thailand. They shot down Singapore in the final game of the tournament. Faisal Julius Ahmad (179-PG-81) knocked down 16 points to lead the winners.
Singapore earned a 12:9 lead at the first break. Indonesia cut the deficit to 2 points at the interval 20:22. They exploded in the third quarter. Indonesia went on a 29:13 rally to surge ahead. The teams slowed down in the final period and traded baskets as Indonesia marched to the victory at the end. Arki Wisnu (187-G-88) notched 14 points for Indonesia. Vamiga Michel (191-SF-92) and Frida Susanto (195-PF-86) added 8 points each in the win. Hanbin Ng answered with 11 points for Singapore. Matialakan Pathman (198-C-80) posted 16 points in the losing case.

Indonesia: Faisal Julius Ahmad 16, Arki Wisnu 14, Vamiga Michel 8, Frida Susanto 8
Singapore: Matialakan Pathman 16, Hanbin Ng 11


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


Barcelona to offer Lorbek largest contract in team history, according to report - by Eurobasket News

If forward Erazem Lorbek (209-F/C-84, college: Michigan St.) is going to head to the San Antonio Spurs next season, he may have to choose between playing on basketball's highest stage or accept one of the largest contract in Barcelona team history.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Spanish team FC Barcelona will offer Lorbek the largest contract in team history.

Again, if the report is true, it would seem Lorbek will have to decide between playing against the best basketball talent in the world or accept a huge payday.

However, this won't be the first time the Spurs had to face this situation. When Tiago Splitter was mulling over a decision to play in the NBA, teams offered Splitter huge offers to remain in the Euroleague but in the end, he passed up on the money and is now a contributor on one of the NBA's best teams.

And with reports that the Spurs are looking at other big men before negotiating with Lorbek, it seems it will be a 50-50 shot Lorbek will make the leap to the NBA next season.

Courtesy of www.projectspurs.com


Slovenia beat Spain in Domzale - by Eurobasket News

Slovenia U20 - Spain U20 74:54

Slovenia U20 beat Spain U20 in Domzale in the first friendly game between two teams. The hosts celebrated an easy 74:54 win in the opener.
Slovenia erupted with 21-5 in the opening period and never looked behind after. They added 16-15 in the second period for 37:20 halftime advantage. Moreover Slovenia needed 25-20 in the third quarter to take 22 points lead with 10 minutes left. Spain won the last quarter 14-12 but managed to reduce only to 20.
Luka Rupnik (185-PG-93) finished the game with 14 points and Gezim Morina (204-C/F-92) nailed 11. Miha Lapornik (192-G-93) and Ziga Dimec (208-C/F-93) followed the with 9 points each. Alejandro Abrines (198-G/F-93) paced the Spanish team with 13 points, while Fernandez notched 10. Suarez delivered 9, whilst Miguel Servera (198-SG-92) and Guerra scored 4 apiece.
Game 2 is scheduled for Sunday.

Slovenia U20: Luka Rupnik 14, Gezim Morina 11, Miha Lapornik 9, Ziga Dimec 9
Spain U20: Alejandro Abrines 13, Fernandez 10, Suarez 9, Miguel Servera 4, Guerra 4


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


Slovenia beat Spain in Domzale - by Eurobasket News

Slovenia U20 - Spain U20 74:54

Slovenia U20 beat Spain U20 in Domzale in the first friendly game between two teams. The hosts celebrated an easy 74:54 win in the opener.
Slovenia erupted with 21-5 in the opening period and never looked behind after. They added 16-15 in the second period for 37:20 halftime advantage. Moreover Slovenia needed 25-20 in the third quarter to take 22 points lead with 10 minutes left. Spain won the last quarter 14-12 but managed to reduce only to 20.
Luka Rupnik (185-PG-93) finished the game with 14 points and Gezim Morina (204-C/F-92) nailed 11. Miha Lapornik (192-G-93) and Ziga Dimec (208-C/F-93) followed the with 9 points each. Alejandro Abrines (198-G/F-93) paced the Spanish team with 13 points, while Fernandez notched 10. Suarez delivered 9, whilst Miguel Servera (198-SG-92) and Guerra scored 4 apiece.
Game 2 is scheduled for Sunday.

Slovenia U20: Luka Rupnik 14, Gezim Morina 11, Miha Lapornik 9, Ziga Dimec 9
Spain U20: Alejandro Abrines 13, Fernandez 10, Suarez 9, Miguel Servera 4, Guerra 4


Spain U16 finished the home tournament - by Eurobasket News

Spain U16 finished the home tournament with two losses. After the win over England in Day 1, the hosts lost to Italy and Turkey to finish third.
Italy U16 grabbed 86:84 win over Spain U16. The latter started with 20-19 and then led 46:35 at the halftime. The third quarter was decisive in the game and brought 63:62 finish at the end of the quarter. Italy added a narrow win in the last stanza to seal the victory. Riccardo Rossato (185-G-96) erupted with 24 points and Federico Mussini (183-G-96) had 17. Garcia A. replied with 15 points, while Adnam Omeragic (194-G-96) scored 14.
In Day 3 Turkey U16 overcame Spain U16 90:81. Turkey opened the game with 24-20 and added massive 28-18 in the second quarter. Turkey won the third period 24-16, but allowed the Spanish side to win the last stanza 27-14. Ulubay top-scored for the winners with 16 points and Egemen Guven added 15. Adnam Omeragic ended up with 19 points in defeat, while Marc Garcia and Carlos Martinez notched 14 each.


Barcelona to offer Lorbek largest contract in team history, according to report - by Eurobasket News

If forward Erazem Lorbek (209-F/C-84, college: Michigan St.) is going to head to the San Antonio Spurs next season, he may have to choose between playing on basketball's highest stage or accept one of the largest contract in Barcelona team history.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Spanish team FC Barcelona will offer Lorbek the largest contract in team history.

Again, if the report is true, it would seem Lorbek will have to decide between playing against the best basketball talent in the world or accept a huge payday.

However, this won't be the first time the Spurs had to face this situation. When Tiago Splitter was mulling over a decision to play in the NBA, teams offered Splitter huge offers to remain in the Euroleague but in the end, he passed up on the money and is now a contributor on one of the NBA's best teams.

And with reports that the Spurs are looking at other big men before negotiating with Lorbek, it seems it will be a 50-50 shot Lorbek will make the leap to the NBA next season.

Courtesy of www.projectspurs.com


Serge Ibaka: Spain's hoops talent equal with U.S. - by Eurobasket News

Serge Ibaka (6'10''-C/F-89) believes Spain's Olympic basketball team has the talent to match the U.S. squad.

He's confident the 2008 silver medalists can compete with the 2012 gold medal favorites and world champions during the Games.

"They are just like us, they also have players with a lot of talent," the Oklahoma City power forward said Saturday in his first full day of training with the Spanish team. "They are a different team to 2008, but their players are still very good."

The 22-year-old Ibaka will make his Olympic debut with Spain, which he helped guide to the European Championship title last summer soon after being nationalized. Ibaka, who is of Congolese origin, turned up at camp early to prepare for the London Olympics.

"There's no time to rest, we have to find our rhythm for the competition already for these friendly games we have, see how we feel," said Ibaka, who helped lead Oklahoma City to the NBA Finals in June before losing to the Miami Heat in five games. LeBron James, of the Heat, and the Lakers' Kobe Bryant lead the American lineup, which includes Ibaka's Oklahoma City teammates Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook and James Harden.

Spain has the bulk of its 2008 team -- including Pau Gasol, brother Marc and Rudy Fernandez -- returning, aside from injured point guard Ricky Rubio.

Spain has several exhibitions before opening against China on July 29 in London, including one against the U.S. in Barcelona on July 24. If the pair lives up to their billing as competition favorites, they won't meet again until the Aug. 12 final after being drawn in different groups.

"We should only worry about our own preparations because it's a long road to the final," Ibaka said. "The most important thing is to give our all to get there."

Courtesy of ESPN


Coach Joan Plaza officially leaves Cajasol - by Eurobasket News

Joan Plaza is no longer a Head Coach of Cajasol Banca Civica Sevilla. The Spanish specialist decided to leave the club. According to various sources, the coach will be hired by Zalgiris Kaunas, but nothing is officially confirmed yet. Plaza took over Cajasol three years ago. Last season they reached Liga Endesa Quarterfinals and failed to Real Madrid. Cajasol ended regular season as No.7 with 18-16 record. Joan Plaza reached EuroCup Finals with Cajasol a year ago. From 2006 to 2009, he was a Head Coach of Real Madrid and won ACB title with them in 2007. The team also won ULEB Cup that season and Plaza was named Eurobasket.com All-ULEB Cup Coach of the Year. Joan Plaza served as Assistant Coach of Real Madrid in 2005/06. Before that he was Assistant Coach at Joventut Badalona.


U17 World Championship: Croatia earn Bronze - by Eurobasket News

Croatia U17 - Spain U17 93:61

Croatia stepped on the podium at the U17 World Championship. They denied Spain in the consolation final tonight to claim Bronze. Mario Hezonja (202-G/F-95) scored 23 points, grabbed 8 rebounds and issued 4 assists to lead the winners.
Croatia led by four points ten minutes into the game 15:11. They stretched the margin in the second frame. Croats went on a massive 28:12 run to take a comfortable 43:23 halftime lead. Croatia did not loosen the grasp in the second half. They piled up a 22-point lead at the final break. Croatia poured in 27 points in the fourth quarter to seal a confident win at the end. Paolo Marinelli (190-G-95) and Karlo Zganec (205-C/F-95) delivered 13 points each for Croatia. Bosnjak and Gabric added 11 points each in the victory. Ilimane Diop (210-C-95) answered with 13 points for Spain. Agusti Sans (195-SG-95) netted 11 points in the losing case.

Croatia U17: Mario Hezonja 23, Paolo Marinelli 13, Karlo Zganec 13
Spain U17: Ilimane Diop 13, Agusti Sans 11


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


Greece U20 beat the Scandinavian side in France - by Eurobasket News

Greece U20-Sweden U20 84:83

Greece U20 beat the Scandinavian side in France. The Greek side grabbed 84:83 win over Sweden U20 in Troyes.
Sweden lost the opener to France and tried to recover in Day 2. They opened the game with 26-19 in the first period and had 5 point advantage at the halftime. Greece won the second frame 24-22 for that difference. In the third period Greece added 17-16 and reduced to 4 points after three quarters. The score was tied at 76:76 and then at 79:79. Anastasios Antonakis (204-PF-92) scored for 81:79 and Markus ERIKSSON tied it again at 81:81. PAPADIONISIOU nailed three for the winners, while Sebastian Norman (208-C/F-92) managed to score only two.
Ianoulis LARENTZAKIS and Anastasios Antonakis stepped up with 19 points for the winners, while Petros MELISARATOS had 17. Spiros MOTSENIGOS followed them with 14 points in a win. Tobias Borg (183-PG-93) answered with 24 points in the losing effort and Sebastian Norman posted 21. Markus ERIKSSON notched 19, whilst Jonathan Person (192-PG-93, agency: JEMsports) and William Gutenius (205-F/C-92) brought 8 each.

Greece U20: Ianoulis LARENTZAKIS 19, Anastasios Antonakis 19, Petros MELISARATOS 17, Spiros MOTSENIGOS 14
Sweden U20: Tobias Borg 24, Sebastian Norman 21, Markus ERIKSSON 19, Jonathan Person 8, William Gutenius 8


*****************************************************
  THAILAND   


SEABA Cup: Philippine prove supremacy, edge Thailand for title - by Eurobasket News

Thailand - Philippines 52:74

Philippines defended their SEABA Cup title. They knocked down Thailand at SEABA Cup last round to clinch the top position. The victory also punched the ticket to Fiba Asia Championship in Tokyo for Philippines. Marcus Douthit (210-C/F-80, agency: Edge Sports, college: Providence) finished with 17 points and 11 rebounds to pace the winners.
Philippines jumped to an early lead and secured a 22:8 advantage at the first break. Philippines extended the margin in the second quarter. They accumulated a 26-point buffer at the interval 41:15. Thailand and Philippines traded baskets in the third quarter as the visitors stayed in charge. The hosts narrowed the gap at 17-point mark midway through the final quarter but Philippines bounced back late in the game sealing a comfortable win at the end. Chico Lanete (183-G-79) delivered 12 points for Philippines. Christopher Tiu (178-PG-85) had 11 points for the winners. Wutipong Dasom answered with 16 points for Thailand. Sukhdavb Ghogar netted 12 points and 7 rebounds in the loss.

Thailand: Wutipong Dasom 16, Sukhdavb Ghogar 12
Philippines: Marcus Douthit 17+11 boards, Chico Lanete 12, Christopher Tiu 11


*****************************************************
  TUNISIA   


Tunisia enjoys Stankovic Cup in Guangzhou - by Eurobasket News

Tunisia enjoys Stankovic Cup in Guangzhou. The African team won one game and lost two in China.
In Day 1 China rolled over Tunisia 85:54. Jianlian Yi (213-F/C-87) top-scored for the winners with 22 points.
In Day 2 Russia overcame Tunisia 63:53. Nikita Barinov (200-F-91) top-scored for the winners with 14 points and Lasarev posted 12.
In Day 3 Australia lost to Tunisia 60:62. The team Australia grabbed 14:12 after the opening quarter and increased to 32:29 at the halftime. Moreover Australia added 16-13 in the third period for a six-point edge at the final change, 48:42. Tunisia meanwhile replied with 20-12 in the final period to seal the victory.
Macram Ben Romdhane (198-F-89) top-scored for the winners with 24 points and 12 rebounds. Clint Steindl (201-F/G-89, college: St.Mary's, CA) led the Australians with 11 points, while Hugh Greenwood also added 11. Todd Blanchfield (200-F-91) added 9 points, while Jason Cadee (186-G-91) had six points, seven assists and three steals.


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


Antalya signed Mangano - by Sinan Can

ANTALYA Buyuksehir Belediyespor signed American power forward Greg Mangano (208-F-89) . Turkish club who had been in intense touch with Leon Williams and Herb Pope as front court options, decided to pass on both candidates recently. It's been reported that Leon Williams did not fit to Turkish club financially as Herb Pope's situation is something else than basketball. Anyway, signing of Greg Mangano is official now. Yale stand-out will spend his first professional year in Beko Basketball League. Mangano is a white big man who excels at perimeter game. 23 years old player averaged 18.2 points, 9.7 rebounds and 2.2 blocks per game at Yale on his senior year. Mangano had a chance to play at Portsmouth Invitational Tournament where he had 10.7 points, 6.0 rebounds and 1.0 block.


Erdemir targets Dalibor Djapa - by Eurobasket News

According to Turkish media (Hurriyet.com.tr), Erdemir wants to sign Dalibor Djapa (205-F/C-84, agency: Alti Sport) for the next season. The Serbian center spent the last one with Ukrainian squad Kryvbasbasket-Lux Kryvyi Rih. He had 12.3 ppg and 5.7 rpg for 28 games in Superleague. Djapa joined Kryvbasbasket in November.
Dalibor Djapa spent 2010/11 season with Geoplin Slovan. He averaged 14.7 points and 5.8 rebounds for 26 games in Slovenian league. The player was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Slovenian League Honorable Mention and he participated at the All-Star Game. Djapa split 2009/10 between Polish Energa Czarni Slupsk and Slovenian Parklji. Before that he played for Budivelnyk Kyiv, BC-93 Pulsar Rovno, Krka, Swisslion Takovo Lions Vrsac, OKK Beograd and Spartak Subotica. In 2010, the player was named to Eurobasket.com Slovenian League All-Bosmans Team.


Jordan Theodore will start pro career in Turkey - by Eurobasket News

Jordan Theodore (182-PG-89, agency: SportsTalent) is expected to start his pro career in Turkey. The guard has reportedly reached an agreement on terms of contract with Antalya. Jordan Theodore has just graduated from Seton Hall University. The guard averaged 16.0 points, 6.6 assists, 3.1 rebounds and 1.8 steals per game in his senior season with the Pirates. He played at NIT Sweet 16. Jordan Theodore made it into All-Big East 2nd Team. He was also named into NABC Division I All-District 5 2nd Team. The guard participated at 2012 Portsmouth Invitational Tournament. He averaged 13.0 points, 8.0 assists, 4.3 boards and 1.7 steals per appearance. Jordan Theodore got into All-Portsmouth Invitational Tournament Team.


Turkey U16 wins Torneo de Guadalajara in Spain - by Eurobasket News

Turkey U16 wins Torneo de Guadalajara in Spain. After the victory over Italy in Day 1, Turkey celebrated another two over England and Spain.
In Day 2 Turkey U16 overcame England U16 84:76. Mehmet Alemdaroglu (205-F-96) paced all the winners with 19 points and Egemen Guven netted 12.
In Day 3 Turkey U16 overcame Spain U16 90:81. Turkey opened the game with 24-20 and added massive 28-18 in the second quarter. Turkey won the third period 24-16, but allowed the Spanish side to win the last stanza 27-14. Ulubay top-scored for the winners with 16 points and Egemen Guven added 15. Adnan Omeragic ended up with 19 points in defeat, while Marc Garcia (190-G-96) and Carlos Martinez (2-G-96) notched 14 each.


Kemal Dincer: 'We'll talk with Siena on Bo McCalebb in the next days' - by Pervin Elgin

Fenerbahce's GM talks on David Andersen, Bo McCalebb, David Hawkins, Bojan Bogdanovic, Romain Sato and Jordan Farmar

Kemal Dincer, Fenerbahce's GM, talked with Basketfaul about the market of the Turkish team who hired Simone Pianigiani as coach.

"After we signed coach Pianigiani, he asked Bo McCalebb and David Andersen for us. Bo McCalebb's transfer is harden than Andersen. He got offers from NBA (McCalebb). After he weighs all the offers from NBA, he will make his decision. Also we must agree with Siena. Bo is under contract with them. We'll talk again with Siena for Bo McCalebb in the following days, if everything will be good.. Honestly we're pulling very hard to bring Bo. If we won't be able to sign him, we have another players on list. But for now, out top priority is Bo McCalebb.

Bojan Bogdanovic will stay with us next season. About David Hawkins, if Besiktas won't ask too much money for his buyout, we could sign him. With Romain Sato we are going to finalize the deal next week There are some reports saying we interested In Jordan Farmar. That is not true. We're not interested in Farmar.

Courtesy of basketfaul


*****************************************************
  UGANDA   


Warriors star Enabu eager to take to the court again - by Eurobasket News

Enabu in action during an Airtel National Basketball league game at YMCA. PHOTO/Michael Nsubuga
By Charles Mutebi
Ivan Enabu is so eager to start competing again, he is worried his body could turn into something strange if he doesnt start soon.
I am so hungry I could turn into a mutant, joked the Kyambogo Warriors guard, who has missed his teams last six games in the Airtel National mens basketball league but is now in shape to take to the court.
Enabu has been nursing a damaged heel that has provoked memories of last years finals when a groin injury significantly limited his productivity and arguably contributed to Kyambogos 4-3 loss to champions DMark Power.
These injuries have been frustrating but it doesnt help to focus on the negative stuff, said the magical player. One thing Enabu has focused on is how well his team has coped without him and Eric Malinga, the reigning league MVP.
It shows how far we have come as a team that the guys have managed to play well despite the injuries, said Enabu.
The Warriors top the standings at the halfway stage of the regular season and with Enabu returning and Malinga weeks away from a come-back, Kyambogo are deliciously poised ahead of the business end of the season.
Courtesy of: http://basket-in-africa.blogspot.ca/


A roster is not a championship Nimrod Kaboha - by Eurobasket News

After missing out on the post season appearance last year to UCU Canons by a whisker (head-to-head to be exact), KIU Titans have done more and gone past their pride defense in the first half of the season.
They have got the believe, learnt to hang-on and win games the hard way that even if rules had not changed, they look destined for a top four finish in the regular season.
The university side has only lost to the former champions, Warriors and another unlikely one to Ndejje Angels in the first round of the season.
KIU scored below their season average in both losses.
However the Titans have beaten the other two out-right title contenders Falcons and Dmark Power.
The two wins earned KIU the title hopefuls tag from several game pundits and journalists.
This does not go down well with the Titans coach, Nimrod Kaboha who refuses to bow down to the pressure that comes along with the tag and insists a roster is not a championship.
Nimrod has assembled a good unit of players in Salim Ali, Francis Kasekende, Micheal Makiadi, Moses Olobo, Brian Wati, and Joshua Etalu among others.
We have got good players on our team, but a roster and a championship are two different things Nimrod said eschewing the possibility of KIU winning the title.
KIU have averaged 58.9 points this season but this is way below leaders, Warriors (84.4), Power (75.3) and Falcons (71. as well as fifth placed UCU at 70.5 PPG.
Much as KIU are just a point behind the premier division leaders and tied at 20 points with Falcons and Power, Nimrod is well aware there is a problem. We have made a lot of mistakes in the first round and we are going to clean up everything he told Kawowo Sports. What next after the clean up?
Courtesy of: http://basket-in-africa.blogspot.ca/


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


Budivelnyk add Igor Silkovskyy and Viktor Gerasimchuk - by Eurobasket News

Budivelnyk deepened their squad with addition of two players. The Kyiv powerhouse has agreed on terms of contract with Igor Silkovskyy (194-G-85) and Viktor Gerasimchuk (200-F-81). Both players spent the previous season with Hoverla Ivano-Frankivsk.
Igor Silkovskyy notched 1.8 points per EuroChallenge game for Hoverla. In Superleague the forward delivered 2.0 points per appearance. Previously Igor Silkovskyy played for MBC Mykolaiv. He was the member of Ukrainian University National Team in 2009.
Viktor Gerasimchuk accounted for 3.9 points and 3.0 rebounds per Superleague game last season. In EuroChallenge the forward delivered 7.5 points and 2.5 boards per appearance. Previously Viktor Gerasimchuk had stints with Pulsar Rivne, BC Kyiv and Kryvbasbasket-Lux. Eurobasket.com named the forward into Ukrainian Superleague All-Newcomers Team in 2009.


Politekhnika-Halychyna bring in Oleg Saltovets - by Eurobasket News

Politekhnika-Halychyna bolstered their frontcourt. They agreed on terms of contract with Oleg Saltovets (202-F-77). The forward spent the last season with BC Donetsk. He tallied 1.0 point and 1.0 rebound per game in EuroCup. In Superleague Oleg Saltovets tallied 1.4 points and 1.6 rebounds per appearance. He became Superleague champion with BC Donetsk. Previously the forward played for BC Kyiv. He participated at Superleague All-Star Game in 2009 and 2010. Oleg Saltovets was named All-Ukrainian Superleague Most Improved Player of the Year in 2009. He made it onto Ukrainian Superleague All-Domestic Players Team in 2009 and 2010. The forward was the member of Ukrainian National Team in 2009-11 seasons.


Ferro-ZNTU keep Heorhi Kandrusevich - by Eurobasket News

Ferro-ZNTU kept one of their key players on the roster. Heorhi Kandrusevich (198-F-78, agency: New Trend Agency) extended the contract with the Zaporizhya team. The Belarusian forward will enter the fifth straight season with Ferro-ZNTU. Last season Heorhi Kandrusevich tallied 9.2 points, 3.5 rebounds and 1.3 assists per game in Superleague. Previously the forward had stints with RTi Minsk, Brotnjo Citluk, Grodno-93, Vitalyur and OZAA Osipovichi. He participated at Belarusian League All-Star Games in 2000, 2004, 2006, 2007 and 2008. He became the Slam Dunk Contest Winner in 2004, 2005 and 2006. The forward also participated at UBL League All-Star Game in 2009. Eurobasket.com named Heorhi Kandrusevich into All-Belarusian League 1st Team in 2004 and 2005. He was the member of Belarusian National Team in 2004-10 seasons.


*****************************************************
  UNITED KINGDOM   


England U16 lost three in Spain - by Eurobasket News

England U16 lost three in Spain at the Torneo de Guadalajara. The team lost to Spain in Day 1 and then was beaten by Turkey and Italy.
In Day 2 Turkey U16 overcame England U16 84:76. Mehmet Alemdaroglu paced all the winners with 19 points and Egemen Guven netted 12.
In Day 3 Italy U16 smashed England U16 85:55 in the last game. Italy took the lead after the opening period and increased the lead throughout the game. Italy enjoyed 47:31 at the halftime and led 66:41 after three quarters. Federico Mussini (183-G-96) stepped up with 15 points to lead all the winners, while Daniel Donzelli (195-G-96) had 13. Lautier Ogunleye replied with 17, whilst Couchman posted 12.

Turkey won the tournament, while Italy finished second and Spain third.


France down Great Britain in Orleans - by Eurobasket News

France-Great Britain 79:74

France down Great Britain in Orleans in the friendly campaign. The home side needed a strong last quarter for 79:74 win.
Great Britain started the game with 24:15 and continued their dominance in the first half. The guests added 19-10 in the second period for 43:25 at the halftime. They could not however win the game. France needed 28-18 in the third period and finished the game with 26-13 in the last stanza.
Yakhouba Diawara (201-F-82, college: Pepperdine) and Boris Diaw (203-PF-82) top-scored for the winners with 14 points each. Nando De Colo (202-G-87, agency: Arete Sports Agency) nailed 13, while Kevin Seraphin (205-F/C-89) posted 11. Luol Deng (206-F-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Duke) erupted with 23 points and 12 rebounds in defeat. Michael Lenzly (189-G-81, college: Wofford) and Nathan Reinking (188-G-73, college: Kent St.) finished the game with 11 points each.
GB's next game will be against Spain on Monday. France will face Spain on July 10th.

France: Yakhouba Diawara 14, Boris Diaw 14, Nando De Colo 13, Kevin Seraphin 11
Great Britain: Luol Deng 23+12 rebs, Michael Lenzly 11, Nathan Reinking 11,


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


Atenas is the Metro leader - by Hector Lopez

Anthony Johnson (203-F-88, college: Fairfield) netted 24 points, grabbed 11 rebounds and added 4 blocks leading Atenas to beat Cader 67-59, to maintain the Metro leadership after 13 rounds. For Cader Adrian Bertolini (191-G-78) scored 19 points and Reggie Okosa (208-F/C-80, agency: Top Notch Sports, college: La Salle) added 9 points and 7 rebounds. Other results were:
Goes 80 - Jimmy Boston (201-F-77, college: N.C.Central) 18 points 5 rebounds Roberto Amaro (197-F-69) 18 points 5 rebounds 2 blocks
Urunday 76 - Howard Wilkerson (198-F-84, agency: Two Points, college: Wofford) 15 points 10 rebounds
- - -
Romis Nelimar 81 - Devon Pearson (198-F-84, college: SMU) 22 points 14 rebounds
Capitol 74- Kevin Martin (208-C-83, college: Florida Gulf Coast) 41 points 9 rebounds 1 block



*****************************************************
  WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS   


Eurobasket.com All-World Championships U17 - by Greg

All-World Championships U17 1st Team 2012
#s#
Jahlil Okafor-Benton
Okafor-Benton
Dante Exum
Exum
Mario Hezonja
Hezonja
Justice Winslow
Winslow
Gabriel Deck
Deck
#e#5

Best Player: Jahlil Okafor-Benton (210-C-95) of
Best Guard: Mario Hezonja (202-G/F-95) of KK Zagreb CO Croatia
Best Forward: Gabriel Deck (202-C/F-95) of Quimsa Argentina
Best Center: Jahlil Okafor-Benton of

Best Coach: Don Showalter of USA

1st Team
PG: Dante Exum (193-95) of
G/F: Mario Hezonja (202-95) of KK Zagreb CO Croatia
F: Justice Winslow (198-96) of High School USA
C/F: Gabriel Deck (202-95) of Quimsa Argentina
C: Jahlil Okafor-Benton (210-95) of

2nd Team
PG: Mirko Djeric (191-95) of Bankstown B. Australia
G: Conner Frankamp (186-95) of
SF: Edvinas Seskus (192-95) of Lietuvos rytas Lithuania
PF: Damien Inglis (204-95) of CFBB France
C/F: Karlo Zganec (205-95) of Bosco Croatia

3rd Team
G: Kevin-Mbezela Zabo (186-95) of
PG: Alvaro Merlo (182-95) of Ciclista Argentina
SG: Agusti Sans (195-95) of FIATC Joventut Spain
PF: Martin Peterka (203-95) of BK Pardubice Czech Republic
C: Ilimane Diop (210-95) of Alava Spain

Honorable Mention
Tyus Jones (188-G-96) of
Justin Jackson (198-SG-97) of
Tyus Jones (188-G-96) of
Marko Arapovic (207-C/F-96) of Cibona Croatia
Zhou Qi (216-C-96) of Liaoning H. China
Benjamin Simmons (203-PF-96) of Knox R. Australia
Radovan Kouril (185-PG-95) of Lucentum Spain
Ernestas Serkevicius (187-PG-95) of Zalgiris-Sabonio 2 Lithuania
Heo Hoon (181-G-95) of
Ehab Amin (185-G-95) of


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


USA clinch the title in Kaunas - by Eurobasket News

FINAL
USA - Australia 95-62
USA defended the title at the U17 World Championship. The winners overcame Australia 95:62 in the Final game of the competition. Pre-tournament favorites USA has looked unstoppable all tournament long and rightfully reached the trophy. USA started with 22-14 and never looked behind. They added 16-10 in the second period as FRANKAMP brought 38:24. Dante Exum (193-PG-95) and Justice Winslow gave their teams the first points in the second half and later USA added 26-19 in the third quarter. FRANKAMP scored for 66:43 early in the fourth, while Dante Exum responded for 68:49. After NUNN and NDUKA-ANYA free throws Conner Frankamp nailed three for 86:59 and then Jahlil Okafor-Benton (210-C-95) delivered two for 88:61. Justice Winslow scored another two from the free throw line, while DOMINGO scored three for 93:62. Jahlil Okafor-Benton made the final successful shot for the winners. Conner Frankamp top-scored for the winners with 22 points and Jahlil Okafor-Benton nailed 17. Justice Winslow delivered 13, while Jabari Parker notched 12. Dante Exum ended up with 21 points and Nicholas Duncan scored 10 in defeat.

3rd place
Spain - Croatia 61-93
Croatia stepped on the podium at the U17 World Championship. They denied Spain in the consolation final tonight to claim Bronze. Mario Hezonja (202-G/F-95) scored 23 points, grabbed 8 rebounds and issued 4 assists to lead the winners. Croatia led by four points ten minutes into the game 15:11. They stretched the margin in the second frame. Croats went on a massive 28:12 run to take a comfortable 43:23 halftime lead. Croatia did not loosen the grasp in the second half. They piled up a 22-point lead at the final break. Croatia poured in 27 points in the fourth quarter to seal a confident win at the end. Paolo Marinelli (190-G-95) and Karlo Zganec (205-C/F-95) delivered 13 points each for Croatia. Bosnjak and Gabric added 11 points each in the victory. Ilimane Diop (210-C-95) answered with 13 points for Spain. Sans netted 11 points in the losing case.

5th place
Canada - Argentina 84-79
Canada finished 5th in Kaunas after the victory over Argentina in their last game. Canada sealed a 84:79 victory in the game for the 5-6 places. It was a productive first period as Canada grabbed 32:22 at the end of the first 10 minutes. Argentina woke up in the second frame and after a fantastic run Haag tied the game at 40:40. Moreover he scored another free throw for the lead in the game, but Patrick Steeves (201-F/G-95) closed the half at 44:41. Canada looked better in the third period and after 22-16 grabbed 66:57 advantage. Zabo made free throws for 80:72 with 3 minutes to go, while Rodrigo Haag and made reduced to 5 points. The teams exchanged several more shots as the board remained the final difference at 5 points. Kevin-Mbezela Zabo (186-G-95) top-scored for the winners with 26 points, while Patrick Steeves netted 14. Tanveer Bhullar and Marial Shayok followed them with 12 points each. Gabriel Deck (202-C/F-95) answered with 26 points for Argentina and Alvaro Merlo notched 16. Guillermo Lopez scored 13, whilst Rodrigo Haag added 11.

7th place
China - Czech Republic 77-70
China ended their U17 World Championship campaign with victory. They defeated Czech Republic to clinch the 7th place. Wang Zhengbo (187-G-96) and Zhou Qi (216-C-96) came up with 16 points each for the winners. Czech Republic knocked down 25 points in the first quarter to take a 5-point lead. But China easily denied the deficit and pulled ahead for a 39:38 halftime lead. Czech Republic bounced back in the third quarter. They levelled things up at 59 with one period remaining. But the final quarter belonged to the Asian team. China held their opponents to 11 points in the fourth frame and sealed the victory at the end. Liu Bo (203-F-96) and Zhao JiWei (185-G-95) accounted for 13 points each in the victory. Adam Pechacek (207-C-95) answered with 16 points for Czech Republic. Radovan Kouril finished with 13 points, 12 assists and 7 rebounds in the loss.



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

Women News


Spain U16 registered the second straight - by Eurobasket News

Spain U16-Belgium U16 67:65

Spain U16 registered the second straight win at the Torneo Internacional de Niza. The Spanish cadets grabbed 67:65 victory over Belgium in France.
Both teams nailed 15 points each in the opening tip. Spain needed 20-18 in the second frame to take 2-point lead at the halftime. Moreover Spain won the third period 17-15 and enjoyed 4-point ddeficit with 10 minutes left in the game. Belgium managed to win the last stanza 16-15 but reduced to 2 points at the end.
Salvadores paced all the winners with 12 points and Quevedo netted 11. Flores ended up with 10 points, while Conde delivered 9. Phebe Raman (96) replied with 17 points and Devlieghere notched 12. Laeticia Mpoyi (179-C-96) and Julie Allemand (173-PG-96) followed them with 11 points each in defeat.
Tomorrow Spain will face France, while Belgium will take on Russia.

Spain U16: Salvadores 12, Quevedo 11, Flores 10, Conde 9
Belgium U16: Phebe Raman 17, Devlieghere 12, Laeticia Mpoyi 11, Julie Allemand 11


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


Sweden U16 exchanged the victories with Baltic side - by Eurobasket News

Sweden U16 exchanged the victories with Baltic side in a friendly campaign. At first Estonia won 72:70 in game 1 and then Sweden replied with a 75:46 win.
In the second game Estonia started with 12-11 lead in the opening period but lost the majority of the game. Sweden erupted with 26-9 in the second frame and added massive 20-11 in the third period. Moreover Sweden needed an 18-14 burst in the final stanza to seal the victory. Lovisa Brunnberg top-scored for the winners with 12 points, while Rebecka Garderyd added 11. Sigrid Sandstrom (177-G-96) posted 10 and Andjela Hrnjez had 9. Tatjana Razguliajeva (173-G-96) replied with 13 points and 5 rebounds in defeat, while Sofia Anissimova (179-F-96) had 10. Kadri Ann Lass delivered 6 and Doris Park (174-G-96) as well as Darja Dikalenko (163-PG-97) posted 5 each.


Baltic Cup U18: Estonia tame Lithuania - by Eurobasket News

Estonia U18 - Lithuania U18 64:56

Estonia celebrated the starting victory at the 2012 Baltic Cup in Riga. They overcame their Lithuanian counterparts in the opener. Trine Kasemagi (190-C-95) came up with 14 points and 12 rebounds to pace the winners.
Estonia grabbed the lead early in the game and maintained it well throughout the encounter. They managed to keep Lithuania at safe distance claiming the first win. Greeta Uprus (175-G/F-94) accounted for 13 points for Estonia. Birgit Piibur (160-PG-94) scored 12 points for the winners. Justina Kraujunaite (174-F-95) responded with 14 points for Lithuania. Austeja Sirsinaityte (164-PG-95) netted 12 points in the losing effort.
Estonia will next take on Latvia, while Lithuania will face Ukraine.

Estonia U18: Trine Kasemagi 14+12 boards, Greeta Uprus 13, Birgit Piibur 12
Lithuania U18: Justina Kraujunaite 14, Austeja Sirsinaityte 12


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

Standings

Eurocup Standings
Group A
 1. Chevakata 0-0 
 2. Lattes Montp. 0-0 
 3. Satu Mare 0-0 
 4. SISU 0-0 
Group B
 1. Olimpia 0-0 
 2. Optimum TED 0-0 
 3. Union Hainaut 0-0 
 4. Young Cats 0-0 
Group C
 1. Belfius Namur 0-0 
 2. Mersin 0-0 
 3. Spartak N. 0-0 
 4. Tarbes 0-0 
Group D
 1. Dynamo-GUVD 0-0 
 2. Nantes 0-0 
 3. Sint Katelijne 0-0 
 4. Wasserburg 0-0 
Group E
 1. Gorizont 0-0 
 2. Kayseri 0-0 
 3. Sodertalje 0-0 
Group F
 1. Botas 0-0 
 2. Dunav 8806 0-0 
 3. Dynamo K. 0-0 
Group G
 1. Dynamo M. 0-0 
 2. Landes 0-0 
 3. Partizan 0-0 
 4. VS Praha 0-0 
Group H
 1. Antakya 0-0 
 2. Elitzur Ramla 0-0 
 3. Kibirkstis-Tiche 0-0 
 4. MBK Ruzomb. 0-0 


Dynamo Moscow keeps Sholokhova, brings in Grishaeva - by Eurobasket News

Dynamo Moscow officially announced signing of a one-year contract extension with Viktoria Sholokhova (189-PF-85, college: Loyola, MD). At the same time, Dynamo brought in Nadezhda Grishaeva (195-PF-89) for the next season. The team will compete in Russian league and EuroCup.
Viktoria Sholokhova joined Dynamo Moscow last summer from Kozachka-Zalk Zaporozhye. She already played for them in 2009/10. Last season Sholokhova averaged 2.7 ppg and 2.9 rpg for 11 games in Russia. She had almost the same numbers for 6 EuroCup games.
Nadezhda Grishaeva arrives to the club from Arras Pays d'Artois Basket Feminin, where she spent last season. She helped the club to win French LFB Cup. In domestic championship the player had 8.4 ppg and 6.6 rpg for 26 games. She also added 11.1 ppg and 8.8 for 10 EuroCup games helping her team to reach the Quarterfinals.


Transfer news from Turkish side, Kayseri Kaskispor - by Diamadis Farmakis

Kayseri Kaskispor caught everyone under suprise last season, when the Turkish team made it to the EuroCup Women Final. Although the Turkish outfit lost over two legs to Dynamo Kursk, it now comes back, asking for more. So far, Kayseri has announced three players for next season's roster, with the one of them being the MVP of Euroleague women Final Eight!!

The greatest new addition to the team is Asjha Jones (188-F-80, college: Connecticut), who was booked almost immediately after the USA international was named MVP of the EuroLeague Women Final Eight in early April. Jones, is a member of the 2012 USA Olympic squad and last year she helped Rivas Ecopolis play in the Euroleague title game.

They followed that transfer move, by bringing in Nuria Martinez, following the Spanish guard's spell with Umbertide in Italy this season.

Kayseri have also added pivot Nicky Anosike and there is now rampant media speculation that Greece international Evina Maltsi is to join the team. According to reports in Greece, Maltsi has signed a one-year contract with the Turkish club.


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

Standings (Women)

Euroleague Standings
Group A
 1. Bourges 0-0 
 2. Frisco Sika 0-0 
 3. Rivas Ecopolis 0-0 
 4. Spartak V MR 0-0 
 5. Tarsus Bld 0-0 
 6. UNI SEAT 0-0 
 7. Wisla Can-Pak 0-0 
Group B
 1. Arras 0-0 
 2. Familia Schio 0-0 
 3. Fenerbahce 0-0 
 4. Good Angels 0-0 
 5. Nadezhda O. 0-0 
 6. Targoviste 0-0 
 7. UNIQA Eurol. 0-0 
Group C
 1. CCC Polkowice 0-0 
 2. Galatasaray 0-0 
 3. Mondeville 0-0 
 4. Novi Zagreb 0-0 
 5. Perfumerias 0-0 
 6. UMMC 0-0 
 7. USK Praha 0-0 


Fiba Europe announced Euroleague dates - by Diamadis Farmakis

After the draw of the group stage of the Euroleague women, FIBA Europe has approved a proposal by the EuroLeague Women Clubs General Assembly to modify the start date of the EuroLeague Women Regular Season.

Consequently, the competition will tip off on 24 October, one week later than initially scheduled and that later start, means the last game day before the winter break will now be played on 19 December.

It was also decided to amend the format of the Final Eight, by introducing an extra rest day and semi-finals and in addition to that, the EuroLeague Women Final Eight will take place between 18 and 24 March 2013.

The Final Eight will take place in a pre-determined venue and have its peak in the Final on 24th March 2013. The host venue will come from one of the EuroLeague Women participants and it will be chosen after a bidding process, in fall this year.


Fiba Europe announced Euroleague dates - by Diamadis Farmakis

After the draw of the group stage of the Euroleague women, FIBA Europe has approved a proposal by the EuroLeague Women Clubs General Assembly to modify the start date of the EuroLeague Women Regular Season.

Consequently, the competition will tip off on 24 October, one week later than initially scheduled and that later start, means the last game day before the winter break will now be played on 19 December. It was also decided that the format of the Final Eight will change, by introducing an extra rest day and semi-finals and that the EuroLeague Women Final Eight will take place between 18 and 24 March 2013.

The Final Eight will take place in a pre-determined venue and have its peak in the Final on 24th March 2013. The host venue will come from one of the EuroLeague Women participants and it will be chosen after a bidding process, in fall this year.


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


Inbal Mizrachi is a newcomer at Elitzur Netanya - by Eurobasket Center

Elitzur Netanya strengthened their roster with addition of 27-year old guard Inbal Mizrachi (167-G-85, agency: Data Plus Group). Mizrachi played most recently at B.C. Habikaa (D1). While playing 19 games for B.C. Habikaa last season she averaged 3.2ppg and 1.8apg. She helped them to make it to the semifinals. She was voted Eurobasket.com All-Israeli League Player of The Year at the end of 2005-06 season. Mizrachi played also previously for Israeli U20 national team.

By Eurobasket Data Center


*****************************************************
  KENYA   


KPA silence Eagle Wings at home - by Eurobasket News

Kenya Basketball womens defending champions Eagle Wings Basketball team was on the receiving end on Friday night playing second fiddle to 2010 champions KPA in a lively Friday Night basketball encounter at the Nyayo gymnasium.KPA won the match 50-66.
Having gone unbeaten since the start of the season, Eagle Wings looked the favorites considering their top scoring form in the recent past. However, on Friday the reigning champions looked disjointed as they allowed their hot rivals rip them apart especially in the first two quarters.
Samba Mjomba (160-G-85) attributed the loss to lack of team unity since they have not had the time to train together as a unit owing to their busy schedules.
Most of our players work in different places and it has been very hard for us to get a consistent training schedule. We had a bad outing tonight and we purely attribute it to lack of our usual team work. She said.
It started in the first quarter with KPA taking a single point lead of 12-13 and they never looked back improving on the scoreline to post 7-23 in the second quarter as they led the champions 19-36 by half time
With such a heavy scoreline and the form of Yvonne Akinyi (F/C) who scored 16 points for her Coastal team, it proved difficult for Eagle Wings to catch up despite their hard work in the final two quarters. The champions were determined to recover and they did so by dominating the 3rd quarter with a 16- 13 points win as Samba Mjomba scored the only 3 pointer in the quarter.
In a more physical 4th quarter that saw KPAs Salma Garang Akinyi stand out in securing the defensive rebounds, the two teams fought it out hard but KPA proved why they are a team to watch in the title race as they beat Eagle Wings by a basket to put the points at 15 17 and ensured that they got the maximum 2 points from the match.
Yvonne Akinyi was the visitors top scorer with 16 points followed by Salma who gave her side 12 points and also securing 10 rebounds the highest in the match. Caroline Mureji and Suleiman Mwajuma gave their side 10 and 8 points respectively.

The win ensured that KPA remain unbeaten after 3 matches and giving Eagle Wings their first defeat after 6 matches.
Courtesy of: http://basket-in-africa.blogspot.ca/


*****************************************************
  LATVIA   


Baltic Cup U18: Latvia open with victory - by Eurobasket News

Latvia U18 - Ukraine U18 59:41

Latvian U18 National Team claimed the opening win at the 2012 Baltic Cup tournament in Riga. They overcame Ukraine for the initial win. Latvia jumped to an early lead. They accumulated a 19:12 advantage after ten minutes. The margin grew in the second quarter. Latvia secured a 32:21 halftime lead. They held Ukraine to 6 points in the third term to boost the gap. The hosts entered the final quarter up by 22 points 49:27. They never looked back marching to the victory at the end. Agija Kruga (176-F-94) accounted for 13 points for Latvia. Gunta-Kristiana Melnace delivered 8 points for the winners.


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


Baltic Cup U18: Estonia tame Lithuania - by Eurobasket News

Estonia U18 - Lithuania U18 64:56

Estonia celebrated the starting victory at the 2012 Baltic Cup in Riga. They overcame their Lithuanian counterparts in the opener. Trine Kasemagi (190-C-95) came up with 14 points and 12 rebounds to pace the winners.
Estonia grabbed the lead early in the game and maintained it well throughout the encounter. They managed to keep Lithuania at safe distance claiming the first win. Greeta Uprus (175-G/F-94) accounted for 13 points for Estonia. Birgit Piibur (160-PG-94) scored 12 points for the winners. Justina Kraujunaite (174-F-95) responded with 14 points for Lithuania. Austeja Sirsinaityte (164-PG-95) netted 12 points in the losing effort.
Estonia will next take on Latvia, while Lithuania will face Ukraine.

Estonia U18: Trine Kasemagi 14+12 boards, Greeta Uprus 13, Birgit Piibur 12
Lithuania U18: Justina Kraujunaite 14, Austeja Sirsinaityte 12


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


Dynamo Moscow keeps Sholokhova, brings in Grishaeva - by Eurobasket News

Dynamo Moscow officially announced signing of a one-year contract extension with Viktoria Sholokhova (189-PF-85, college: Loyola, MD). At the same time, Dynamo brought in Nadezhda Grishaeva (195-PF-89) for the next season. The team will compete in Russian league and EuroCup.
Viktoria Sholokhova joined Dynamo Moscow last summer from Kozachka-Zalk Zaporozhye. She already played for them in 2009/10. Last season Sholokhova averaged 2.7 ppg and 2.9 rpg for 11 games in Russia. She had almost the same numbers for 6 EuroCup games.
Nadezhda Grishaeva arrives to the club from Arras Pays d'Artois Basket Feminin, where she spent last season. She helped the club to win French LFB Cup. In domestic championship the player had 8.4 ppg and 6.6 rpg for 26 games. She also added 11.1 ppg and 8.8 for 10 EuroCup games helping her team to reach the Quarterfinals.


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


Spain U16 registered the second straight - by Eurobasket News

Spain U16-Belgium U16 67:65

Spain U16 registered the second straight win at the Torneo Internacional de Niza. The Spanish cadets grabbed 67:65 victory over Belgium in France.
Both teams nailed 15 points each in the opening tip. Spain needed 20-18 in the second frame to take 2-point lead at the halftime. Moreover Spain won the third period 17-15 and enjoyed 4-point ddeficit with 10 minutes left in the game. Belgium managed to win the last stanza 16-15 but reduced to 2 points at the end.
Salvadores paced all the winners with 12 points and Quevedo netted 11. Flores ended up with 10 points, while Conde delivered 9. Phebe Raman (96) replied with 17 points and Devlieghere notched 12. Laeticia Mpoyi (179-C-96) and Julie Allemand (173-PG-96) followed them with 11 points each in defeat.
Tomorrow Spain will face France, while Belgium will take on Russia.

Spain U16: Salvadores 12, Quevedo 11, Flores 10, Conde 9
Belgium U16: Phebe Raman 17, Devlieghere 12, Laeticia Mpoyi 11, Julie Allemand 11


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


Sweden U16 exchanged the victories with Baltic side - by Eurobasket News

Sweden U16 exchanged the victories with Baltic side in a friendly campaign. At first Estonia won 72:70 in game 1 and then Sweden replied with a 75:46 win.
In the second game Estonia started with 12-11 lead in the opening period but lost the majority of the game. Sweden erupted with 26-9 in the second frame and added massive 20-11 in the third period. Moreover Sweden needed an 18-14 burst in the final stanza to seal the victory. Lovisa Brunnberg top-scored for the winners with 12 points, while Rebecka Garderyd added 11. Sigrid Sandstrom (177-G-96) posted 10 and Andjela Hrnjez had 9. Tatjana Razguliajeva (173-G-96) replied with 13 points and 5 rebounds in defeat, while Sofia Anissimova (179-F-96) had 10. Kadri Ann Lass delivered 6 and Doris Park (174-G-96) as well as Darja Dikalenko (163-PG-97) posted 5 each.


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  UKRAINE   


Baltic Cup U18: Latvia open with victory - by Eurobasket News

Latvia U18 - Ukraine U18 59:41

Latvian U18 National Team claimed the opening win at the 2012 Baltic Cup tournament in Riga. They overcame Ukraine for the initial win. Latvia jumped to an early lead. They accumulated a 19:12 advantage after ten minutes. The margin grew in the second quarter. Latvia secured a 32:21 halftime lead. They held Ukraine to 6 points in the third term to boost the gap. The hosts entered the final quarter up by 22 points 49:27. They never looked back marching to the victory at the end. Agija Kruga (176-F-94) accounted for 13 points for Latvia. Gunta-Kristiana Melnace delivered 8 points for the winners.


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


Jones Cup women's Day 1&2 boxscores - by Chris Wang

Some fans emailed and told me that they could not access the CTBA website on Jones Cup women's competition.

I don't know where the problem is, but I have managed to screen grab the boxscores of the first six games during Day 1 and Day 2 and post them here. Please feel free to download.

The CTBA does not provide players' English names in the boxscores. Please make reference with jersey numbers in my previous post and look for the player you need.

http://www.taiwanhoops.com/2012/07/jones-cup-women-day-1-boxscores.html


Jones Cup women's Day 2 scores - by Chris Wang

Jones Cup women's Day 2 scores

Cathay Life 92-48 Malaysia
Japan 113-48 Chapman
Chunghua Telecom 95-73 India

PS: As crazy as it may seems, the CTBA does not provide the team roster in English. Which is why it's difficult for me to write about individual scoring and stats because I don't know who is who in the boxscores.

Standings:
Cathay Life 2-0
Chunghua Telecom 2-0
Japan 2-0
Chapman 0-2
India 0-2
Malaysia 0-2


2012 Jones Cup womens rosters - by Chris Wang

After much efforts and searching various sources I got this roster

No.Last NameFirst NameBirth DateHeight (cm)Weight (kg)

India
CoachCHELLADURAITHINAKARAN
Assistant CoachVATTAPPULLY MADHVANPREMKUMAR

4SINGHAKANKSHA07/09/198916858
5MURALINATHAPPOORVA02/02/198917967
6JOSEGEETHU ANNA30/06/198518580
7PAUL DURAIANITHA22/06/198516962
8SINGHPRATIMA06/09/199017361
9KINDOARUNA 26/05/199217556
10RADHAKRISHNANSMRUTHI 5/04/199217560
11KAVITA03/06/199216949
12LAKRAANJU06/07/198316457
13SUBRAMANIKOKILA25/07/198816556
14PALANILKUMKALAYIL SKARIAJEENA09/01/199417864
15KIRANJIT KAUR07/03/198818288

Japan
Head CoachIYODAYoshihiko
Assistant CoachNODERAKazuhiko
Assistant CoachMORIYAShiho

4SHINOZAKIMio12/09/199116660
5KAYATANIYukiko01/03/199017064
11SATOAyaka24/04/199117464
9OCHIAISatomi8/05/199116553
12KONDOKaede06/10/199117259
7KOSUGEYuka09/12/199118070
6KATOYuki06/02/199217770
10SEZAKIRina06/03/199216253
8HASHIZUMEMari07/03/199218385
13KATSURAAoi 02/09/199218069
14KAKUHATARiko26/12/199217257
15UCHINOChikae21/01/199317657

Malaysia

4YAPFOOK YEE15/06/199317460
5CHONGYIN YIN26/06/199316655
6PANGHUI PIN29/04/199017673
7LOWPHEY CHI, MAGDELENE29/03/199417075
8OOIPOH YEE12/03/199317554
9TINGCHIAU TENG, EUGENE10/03/199217865
10CHOOSOOK PING14/10/198817355
11NGSHI YENG02/05/199418670
12RAJINTIRANKALAIMATHI02/09/199018568
13YAPCHING YEE16/12/199119268
14HEESHOOK YING18/10/198518172
15NGMEI KUAN09/07/199017675
KEWSUIK MAY30/09/1982172
BEHSIEW LIAN11/04/1982177

Chapman University
Head CoachJueCarol
Assistant CoachWatanabeMido

4McCoyEmily31/08/1990168
12YoshimuraAnne16/02/1991163
13HigashigawaLynne12/05/1993168
14MoyNicole06/06/1993173
15ServinStephanie10/06/1989183
21QuonBrittany03/05/1993152
22CofanoChristy 08/09/1992178
23TakaokaKimi15/02/1992168
24HartnettLiz17/05/1991173
32VillanuevaAndrea27/03/1993168
33MockStephanie29/03/1993157
34HoodBrandi07/10/1989185
50LunaArielle19/05/1989178

Cathay Life
Head CoachHUNGLING-YAO
CoachWANGLING

4CHENYI-FENG13/11/198417067
5HUANGFAN-SHAN29/09/198717463
6CHIANGFENG-CHUN25/10/198118480
7LANHAO-YU02/08/198317068
8WUMIN-FANG21/06/198717562
10LIYOU-RUEI23/12/198618072
11CHENGHUI-YUN23/04/197718680
12LINHUI-MEI11/22/198117784
13CHENYU-CHUN07/03/198717674
14HUANGYING-LI24/02/198917064
16YANGYA-HUI20/04/198917062
17CHANGNING16/10/198718577
18LIUCHUN-YI03/01/198118080
19HUANGPING-JEN06/11/198917871
21WUYI-TING07/05/199117559

Chunghua Telecom

6HSUCHIEN-HUI10/09/198917162
9LIUHIS-YEH10/10/199117266
8WANGLI-YUN17/10/198517680
4PANTAZ-YIN23/07/199217064
10LUIJIA-WEI21/10/198817575
11HUANGHSIANG-TING26/01/199318074
13WANGWEI-LIN01/02/199318072
14LEEPEI-CHI01/11/199117870
15HSIHPEI-CHUN26/07/199118187
16CHENGSHIN-JUNG 08/04/198917365
18LEEYA-CHIEN12/06/198818273
19YANGSHIN-HUI28/02/198917569
12LIUJUNG-HSING22/06/199217464


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  WNBA   

Standings

WNBA Standings
Eastern
 1. Connecticut S. 12-4 
 2. Indiana F. 9-6 
 3. Chicago S. 8-7 
 4. Atlanta D. 8-9 
 5. New York L. 6-10 
 6. Washington M. 4-12 
Western
 1. Minnesota L. 13-4 
 2. L.Angeles S. 12-7 
 3. S.Antonio SS 11-5 
 4. Seattle S. 9-9 
 5. Phoenix M. 4-13 
 6. Tulsa S. 3-13 

Regular Season: Round 21

Jul. 7: Phoenix M. - Atlanta D. 93-100 2OT
Jul. 7: Indiana F. - Chicago S. 88-86 OT
Jul. 8: Seattle S. - Phoenix M. 83-68
Jul. 7: L.Angeles S. - Seattle S. 83-59
Jul. 8: New York L. - S.Antonio SS 81-94
Jul. 7: Minnesota L. - Connecticut S. 80-86
Jul. 8: L.Angeles S. - Atlanta D. 79-63
Jul. 8: Tulsa S. - Washington M. 78-62

Regular Season: Round 22

Jul. 10: Washington M. - Connecticut S.
Jul. 10: Indiana F. - New York L.
Jul. 10: Tulsa S. - Minnesota L.
Jul. 10: Phoenix M. - L.Angeles S.
Jul. 11: Chicago S. - S.Antonio SS
Jul. 11: Seattle S. - Atlanta D.
Jul. 11: Connecticut S. - Washington M.


Saturday: Indiana Fever 88, Chicago Sky 86 - by Eurobasket News

Briann January (5'8''-PG-87, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Arizona St.) hit two jumpers in an 84-second span late in overtime to help lift the Indiana Fever to an 88-86 WNBA victory over the Chicago Sky on Saturday.

The loss was the second straight and sixth in seven games for the slumping Sky (8-7).

The Sky rallied from a 13-point deficit and led late in regulation before January tied the game with a free throw to force a 76-76 tie and overtime at Bankers Life Fieldhouse.

Sylvia Fowles (6'6''-C-85, college: LSU) had 24 points and 16 rebounds for the Sky and became the third player in franchise history to top 2,000 career points. Eshaya Murphy (6'0''-G/F-85, college: USC) had 20 while Swin Cash (6'2''-F-79, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Connecticut) and LeCoe Willingham added 18 and 10 points, respectively.

Indiana (9-6) placed five in double figures, led by Tamika Catching's 18 points and Jessica Davenport's 15. Shavonte Zellous had 14 while Katie Douglas and January each had 14.

January's scored on a driving layup with 1:51 left in overtime for a 85-82 Fever lead. She added a pullup jumper with 27.9 seconds showing to make it 87-84.

The Sky trailed 64-51 entering the final quarter, then staged an impressive rally as Murphy scored 7 points -- including a game-tying 3 pointer -- while Fowles added six in a 21-6 run that opened a 72-70 lead with 3:58 to play.

The lead changed hands four times before January's game-tying free throw with 22 seconds left in regulation. Cash missed a buzzer-beating jumper and the game went to overtime.

The host Fever jumped to an early 21-9 lead as eight Indiana players scored in the first quarter, led by Zellous' seven points -- as the Fever opened a 21-15 lead.

Indiana led by as many as 10 points late in the second quarter before a pair of Murphy 3 pointers and two Fowles free throws cut the half time margin to 37-33. Murphy closed the half with a team-high 9 points.

The Fever opened the third quarter with seven unanswered points for a 44-33 lead. The Sky again scrambled back and cut the deficit to 50-45 on Cash's 3 pointer with 4:54 remaining. Indiana closed the quarter with a 14-6 surge for a 64-51 lead.

The Sky return home to Allstate Arena on Wednesday for an 11:30 a.m. game against San Antonio. They close the season's first half on Friday against Connecticut.

Courtesy of http://sports.yahoo.com


Sun 86, Lynx 80: Once-dominant Minnesota loses third straight - by Eurobasket News

It was a logical question for Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve to ask.

The Lynx have fallen behind by 20 points in their past two games and have a three-game losing streak for the first time since July 2010.

Reeve took inventory of the situation after the Lynx's 86-80 loss to the Connecticut Sun on Saturday night, July 7, at Target Center and wondered: "When's the last time we've faced adversity like this? ... For us, we've been spoiled a little bit."

Over the next five days, beginning with Tuesday's game at Tulsa, Reeve hopes to learn something about the defending WNBA champions, who are dealing with a midseason slump after losses to Connecticut, Los Angeles and San Antonio -- three of the WNBA's top teams.

Saturday's loss in front of a sellout crowd of 10,882 featured a sluggish start, poor shooting and an inability to keep Connecticut off the offensive boards. The Sun had 34 second-chance points and hung on despite almost blowing a 20-point lead in the fourth quarter.

The Lynx twice cut their deficit to three in the final minute, but the Sun scored their final eight points from the free-throw line to improve to 12-4, the second-best record in the WNBA behind Minnesota's 13-4.

Kara Lawson (5'8''-PG-81, college: Tennessee) led the Sun with 22 points and 10 rebounds. Tina Charles (6'4''-C-88, agency: LBM Management, college: Connecticut) hurt the Lynx inside with 19 points and 15 rebounds.

Though the Lynx woke up in the fourth quarter, there were signs that some soul-searching will be on the agenda as they try to finish strong before the Olympic break. They play at Tulsa on Tuesday and host Tulsa on Thursday, then don't play again until Aug. 17.

"Now we have some adversity, but it's all about how you handle it and how you come out of it," Reeve said. "I got a great group in there. I know we'll be OK. It's just a matter of when."

The Lynx won't regroup until they rediscover their offense. The starting lineup of Maya Moore (6'0''-F-89, college: Connecticut), Rebekkah Brunson, Taj McWilliams-Franklin, Seimone Augustus and Lindsay Whalen shot a combined 21 of 52 (40 percent) from the floor.

Brunson was 1 for 10, and Moore was 6 for 18 but led the Lynx with 19 points. Moore missed two three-point attempts in the final 1:08.

"If we continue to stay together and not let tough nights like this tear us apart, we'll be fine," Moore said. "You can let things like this hurt you or let it make you better. This team will take this week and use it to make us better."

A weary Augustus also tried to stay positive but had to face questions about fatigue. She was scoreless in the fourth quarter and took only one shot. She finished with 14 points but made just one field goal in the second half.

Augustus preferred to focus on the team's word of the day, "adversity," instead of her scoring troubles.

"I feel we're going to adjust the way we always have," Augustus said. "We had adversity last year and ended up winning a championship. We'll be ready for the second half of the season."

Peters breaks hand

Reeve said forward Devereaux Peters will be out until after the Olympic break with a broken bone in her left hand. Peters was injured against Los Angeles on Thursday.

Courtesy of www.twincities.com


Dream outlast Mercury 100-93 in OTs - by Eurobasket News

Sancho Lyttle (6'4''-C-83, college: Houston) scored a career-high 31 points, including five in the second overtime, to lead the Atlanta Dream past the Phoenix Mercury 100-93 on Saturday night.

Lyttle added 10 rebounds and made a pair of 3-pointers during a key stretch early in the fourth quarter and then nine points in the two extra periods as the Dream won their fourth game in the past five.

DeWanna Bonner (6'4''-G-87, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Auburn) had 27 points, 15 rebounds and six steals to lead the Mercury (4-12), who have played since a May 31 loss at Atlanta without injured star Diana Taurasi (6'0''-F/G-82, college: Connecticut). Phoenix has lost 5 of 6 and is 3-10 without Taurasi.

The Dream (8-8) used a 16-0 run to end the third period and an 8-3 start in the fourth quarter to erase a 17-point deficit and led by five with 1:03 left in regulation.

The Dream did not play Angel McCoughtry (6'1''-F-86, college: Louisville), the league's leading scorer at 22.6 points per game and a member of the U.S. Olympic team with a week before the WNBA breaks for London.

Courtesy of www.wmbfnews.com


Sparks bounce Storm 83-59 on Saturday - by Eurobasket News

Kristi Toliver (5'7''-PG-87, college: Maryland) scored 23 points to lead all five starters in double-digit scoring and the Los Angeles Sparks defeated the injury-depleted Seattle Storm 83-59 on Saturday.

Candace Parker (6'4''-F/C-86, college: Tennessee) scored 17 points, Delisha Milton-Jones (6'1''-F-74, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Florida) 15, Nnemkadi Ogwumike (6'2''-F-90, college: Stanford) 13 and Alana Beard 10. Toliver, coming off a career-high tying 29-point game, went 9 for 14 from the field to lead an excellent game by the starters.

Los Angeles did not get any points from its bench until Jantel Lavender scored with fewer than three minutes remaining.

The Sparks (12-6) improved to 4-0 this season against the Storm, who finished the game with seven healthy players after Tina Thompson left with a leg injury in the fourth quarter.

Courtesy of www.kswt.com


Lynx lose another post player - Peters has broken hand - by Eurobasket News

Good thing the five-week break for the Summer Olympics is coming up soon. The Lynx are getting pretty thin in the post.

Jessica Adair (6'4''-C-86, agency: LBM Management, college: G.Washington), a 6-4 center, has been out for a while after having arthroscopic knee surgery. Now 6-2 forward Devereaux Peters (6'2''-F-89, agency: LBM Management, college: Notre Dame) is joining her on the sidelines.

Peters has a broken left hand. She was hurt in a scramble for the ball in a Lynx loss at Los Angeles on Thursday. She was averaging 5.4 points and 3.3 rebounds per game.

That leaves 6-5 Amber Harris as the lone true backup for center Taj McWilliams-Franklin and forward Rebekkah Brunson.

It's a short-term problem, though. The Lynx only have two games left, both against Tulsa. They play at Tulsa on Tuesday and face the Shock at home on Thursday. Then they are off until Aug. 17 when they play Washington at home.

SUN SHINING

Guard Monica Wright knows the tough task the Lynx have in store for them Saturday night when they play Connecticut at Target Center, trying to break a two-game losing streak.

The Sun lead the Eastern Conference by 2-1/2 games -- the same margin the Lynx hold in the West..

[The Sun are] really good," Wright said. "They have Tina Charles. You have great veterans, Kara Lawson and Asjha Jones, Renee Montgomery. They are firing from all angles, too. They are going to be one of the powerhouses of the East. We always love playing them."

The Lynx (13-3) beat the Sun (11-4) at the Mohegan Sun Arena earlier this season with a strong finish.

The Lynx took Wright with the second pick in the 2010 trade, which was acquired from the Sun in the Whalen trade.

Wright likes playing with Whalen.

Since I have been in Minnesota, I have just known [Whalen]," Wright said. "I didnt know her in Connecticut. But what I have gotten so far from her, she is completely changed my game. And I have gained so much knowledge from her. Just watching her, she is excellent."

Asked if being picked by the Lynx was good for her, Wright seemed incredulous. Ya, we won a championship last year," she said. "You cant ask for anything better than that.


LYNX FUTURE BRIGHT?

Connecticut coach Mike Thibault said the Lynx can be as successful as they were last year.

"Its the same team with more experience," he said. "That's a pretty good combination. They are still reasonably young as a group, which bodes well for them in future. They have enough experience to process things, which puts them ahead of other teams who go through tough stretches."

The Lynx are in the midst of their toughest stretch in a while. They have lost two in a row. The last time that happened was in June of 2011 when they lost to Seattle and Indiana on June 24 and 26.

* On Whalen, his point guard at one time: "She is pretty much the same. A team first player. She knows when her teammates are open. She attacks the basket aggressively. Probably for a guard, she is one of best finishers in the league at the basket. She does not have an ego, which says she has to be the show. She is about winning first. ... She was are our most valuable asset."

* On playing back-to-back games this weekend? "Thats the schedule-makers. We just play it." The Sun won at Tulsa on Friday.

Courtesy of www.startribune.com