EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 8/12/2012 1:04:01 AM

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Men News

*****************************************************
  ADRIATIC LEAGUE   



Crvena zvezda extends five players - by Rado Markovic Hribernik

Serbian powerhouse Crvena Zvezda Beograd has announced that it had extended contracts with five players Filip Covic (180-G-89, agency: Interperformances), Branko Lazic (195-G-89), Milan Smiljanic (200-F-72), Bojan Subotic (206-F/C-90) and Milan Milovanovic (205-C/F-91). The three of them already played for Crvena Zvezda Beograd in the previous season, while Smiljanic and Milovanovic played for an unofficial second team of the Belgrade club Radnicki Basket Beograd. All five players signed new three-year contracts.

Crvena Zvezda Beograd is building a very strong roster for the coming season, as they had already strenghtened their roster in the previous days with players like Igor Rakocevic (193-G-78), Boris Savovic (206-F-87, agency: Beo Basket), Marko Simonovic (202-F-86, agency: Beo Basket), Luka Mitrovic (204-F/C-93) and Elton Brown (206-C-83, college: Virginia).



Marko Pajic joins Krka Novo mesto - by Rado Markovic Hribernik

Slovenian national team member Marko Pajic (204-F/C-92), who played also for Slovenian U20 national team during this summer, signed today a 4-year deal with Slovenian champions Krka Novo Mesto. Slovenian representative at the Turkish Airlines Euroleague Union Olimpija Ljubljana was also interested into signing him, but finally, Krka was prepared to pay the transfer fee to his former club Geoplin Slovan Ljubljana, and Olimpija wasn't.

Marko Pajic (204-F/C-92) played last season for Geoplin Slovean in Slovenian Telemach league and averaged 9.6 points, 6.3 rebounds and 0.8 assists per game.



Radnicki Kragujevac agrees with Matthew Bryan-Amaning - by Eurobasket News

Radnicki Kragujevac is very active on the transfer market this summer. Today the Serbian squad agreed terms with Matthew Bryan-Amaning (205-F-88, agency: Interperformances, college: Washington), according to journalist Djordje Matic. The British forward spent last season in Turkey. He appeared 30 times with Hacettepe University averaging 12.4 points, 4.9 rebounds, 2 steals and 1.3 blocks. He was the best shot blocker of TBL and No.1 in steals. It was the first pro deal for Bryan-Amaning, who graduated at University of Washington something more than a year ago. The player had 15.3 ppg and 8 rpg for his school in 35 games as a senior. Matthew Bryan-Amaning played for the New Orleans Hornets in 2012 NBA Las Vegas Summer League. He had 2.2 ppg and 2.2 rpg for 5 games. Bryan-Amaning played for the British National Team in 2011 EuroBasket qualifications.


*****************************************************
  AUSTRIA   


U18 European Championship: Austria hold off Slovakia - by Eurobasket News

Austria U18 - Slovakia U18 56:52

Austria celebrated the second victory at U18 European Championship in Division B. They knocked down Slovakia to improve at 2-1 record, while the Slovaks slipped at 0-2.
Slovakia jumped to an early lead. They posted a 13:12 advantage at the first intermission. Slovakia boosted the lead in the second quarter. They cleared off to a 7-point lead at halftime 28:21. But Austria managed to turn the tables in the second half. Austria cut the distance to a single point at the final break. Mueller and Benedikt Guettl (188-G-94) put Austria in front midway through the final stanza 46:45. Slovakia regained the lead but Valentin Bauer (181-PG-94) and Jakob Poeltl (208-PF-95) put Austria in charge late in regulation and sealed the victory at the end. Jakob Poeltl came up with 16 points and 14 rebounds for Austria. Valentin Bauer added 14 points for the winners. Robert Rozim (199-F-94) answered with 16 points for Slovakia. Martin Matejcik (185-G-94) had 9 points in the loss.

Austria U18: Jakob Poeltl 16+14 boards, Valentin Bauer 14, Benedikt Guettl 8
Slovakia U18: Robert Rozim 16, Martin Matejcik 9


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  BELARUS   


U18 European Championship: Belarus thump Scotland - by Eurobasket News

Belarus U18 - Scotland U18 78:52

Belarus clinched the first win at the U18 European Championship in Division B. They drubbed Scotland in Group A action tonight. Viktar Ilyukevich (203-PF-94) and Yahor Patupchyk (191-SG-94) knocked down 13 points each to lead the winners.
Belarus left Scotland far behind in the first quarter. They established a 22:9 lead at the first intermission. Belarus dominated in the second quarter. They recorded a 38:22 halftime lead. Belarus stayed in charge throughout the second half. They piled up a 25-point buffer before the fourth frame and never looked back en route to the victory. Pavel Bliznets (205-C-94) contributed 12 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. Matthew Wilcox (196-PF-94) answered with 17 points for Scotland. Joshua McGilvray (201-C-95) netted 10 points in the loss.

Belarus U18: Viktar Ilyukevich 13, Yahor Patupchyk 13, Pavel Bliznets 12+11 boards
Scotland U18: Matthew Wilcox 17, Joshua McGilvray 10


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  BELGIUM   


U18 European Championship: Belgium record win over Portugal - by Eurobasket News

Belgium U18 - Portugal U18 71:45

Belgium opened win count at U18 European Championship in Division B. They held off Portugal to improve at 1-1 record in Group D. Portugal in the meantime slipped at 1-2 record.
Belgium cleared off in the opening quarter. They held Portugal to only 6 points in the opening quarter to take a 14-point lead. Belgium maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. They established a 35:18 halftime lead. Belgium exploded with 27 points in the third quarter. They piled up a 29-point advantage with one quarter remaining. Portugal could not recover and had to surrender at the end. Louis Hazard (199-F-94) scored 12 points for Belgium. Naim El Khounchar (193-G-94) and Emmanuel Lecomte (180-G-95) netted 10 points apiece for the winning side. Pedro Marques (173-PG-95) answered with 16 points for Portugal. Isaias Insaly (197-F/C-95) netted 7 points in the loss.

Belgium U18: Louis Hazard 12, Naim El Khounchar 10, Emmanuel Lecomte 10
Portugal U18: Pedro Marques 16, Isaias Insaly 7


Okapi Aalstar Transfer - by Peter Buyse

The news was already out there for some time now but yesterday the team finally announced the signing of G/F Ryan Thompson (198-G-89, college: Rider) to Okapi Aalstar for the 2012-2013 season.
The former Rider guard played for the Utah Flash in the D-league after his college career where he was teammates with former Okapi player Kevin Kruger.
His best season at Rider was his jr year when he had averages of 18.0 ppg, 6.5 rpg and 3.2 apg. Was voted to the All MAAC first team his junior and senior year.
With the Flash he played 45 games games and averaged 10.8 ppg and 2.8 rpg.
During the 2011-2012 season he came to Europe to play for Italian Legadue team Brescia. At Brescia he averaged 14.1 ppg and 4.9 rpg.
Ryan is the younger brother of NBA player Jason Thompson.


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  BOSNIA   


U18 European Championship: Bosnia and Herzegovina stay perfect - by Eurobasket News

Bosnia and Herzegovina U18 - Georgia U18 85:74

Bosnia and Herzegovina celebrated the third victory in a row at the start of U18 European Championship in Division B. The hosts held off Georgia to stay perfect in Group D. Jusuf Nurkic (212-C-94) came up with 31 points and 15 rebounds to lead the winners.
Georgia looked confident early in the game. The visitors fired 24 points in the opening quarter to take a 3-point lead at the first break. But Bosnia and Herzegovina gradually took over. The home side eked out a 41:40 halftime lead. Bosnia and Herzegovina started to get away in the third quarter. They ensured 9-point lead before the fourth stanza. Bosnia and Herzegovina kept Georgia at safe distance throughout the fourth term and sealed the victory at the end. Adin Vrabac (202-G/F-94) nailed 17 points, issued 7 assists and grabbed 6 boards for the winners. Irakli Mikeladze (180-PG-94) answered with 25 points for Georgia. Beka Burjanadze (203-PF-94) had 12 points and 14 boards in the loss.

Bosnia and Herzegovina U18: Jusuf Nurkic 31+15 boards, Adin Vrabac 17, Nedim Buza 9, Stefan Glogovac 9
Georgia U18: Irakli Mikeladze 25, Beka Burjanadze 12+14 boards


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  BULGARIA   


U18 European Championship: Bulgaria stun hosts, clinch top spot in Group C - by Eurobasket News

Latvia U18 - Bulgaria U18 58:69

Bulgaria finished U18 European Championship preliminary round in a blistering fashion. They knocked down hosting Latvia to claim the top position in Group C. Latvia finished second after the defeat. The victory of Bulgaria also means that France will now play in the relegation round.
Bulgaria surged ahead early in the encounter. The visitors posted an 18:16 lead at the first break. Bulgaria stretched the lead in the second quarter. They extended the margin to 12 points at halftime 41:29. Bulgaria maintained the advantage throughout the third term. They entered the fourth period up by 13 points 54:41. Latvia tipped off the fourth frame with back-to-back triples to get closer. But Bulgaria soon restored an 11-point lead and cruised to the victory at the end. Denislav Vutev (206-C-94) posted 18 points, while Nikolay Stoyanov (195-SF-94) added 13 points for the winners. Ivars Zvigurs (195-G/F-95) answered with 11 points for Latvia. Davis Geks (183-G/F-95) had 10 points in the loss.

Latvia U18: Ivars Zvigurs 11, Davis Geks 10
Bulgaria U18: Denislav Vutev 18, Nikolay Stoyanov 13, Kris Minkov 9, Aleksandar Vezenkov 9+11 boards, Velislav Galabov 9


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


U18 European Championship: Dario Saric leads Croatia to the third straight win - by Eurobasket News

Croatia U18 - Russia U18 74:63

Croatia stayed on the winning track at U18 European Championship. They thumped Russia to improve at 3-0 record on top of Group D. Dario Saric (208-F-94) put on another amazing performance finishing with 32 points, 13 boards and 2 assists before fouling out. Russia fell at 2-1 record after the loss.
Russia ensured the better start. They posted a 21:19 lead ten minutes into the game. Croatia adjusted defensively in the second quarter. They tipped off the period with 12 points in a row. Croatia gained the tempo and ensured a 37:33 halftime lead. The margin grew at 16-point mark midway through the third term. Russia cut the deficit to 10 points at the final break 47:57. Russia narrowed the margin to 4 points midway through the fourth term. But Croatia sparked with a 7:0 run and cleared off for good. Mislav Brzoja (196-F/G-94) notched 16 points for the winners. Mikhail Kulagin (188-G-94) answered with 14 points for Russia. Serdar Annaev (185-PG-94) had 11 points and 6 assists in the loss.

Croatia U18: Dario Saric 32+13 boards, Mislav Brzoja 16, Dominik Mavra 8
Russia U18: Mikhail Kulagin 14, Serdar Annaev 11


Mens Sana Siena agrees with C Mario Kasun - by Eurobasket News

Mario Kasun (213-C-80) will continue his career in Italy. The Croatian bug guy agreed a deal with Mens Sana Siena, according to Sportando.net. Kasun spent last two seasons with Zagreb Croatia Osiguranje. They won Croatian league title and Cup a year ago. Last season Kasun shined with 17.9 ppg and 8.3 rpg for 20 games in Adriatic league. He was the second scorer and fourth rebounder of the competition. The player was named to Eurobasket.com All-Adriatic League 2nd Team. Before Zagreb, Mario Kasun played two years for Efes Pilsen. From 2006 to 2008, he was a member of Barcelona and before that Kasun played for the NBA team Orlando Magic. He had 2.9 ppg and 2.1 rpg for 28 NBA games in 2005/06 season. In the past, Mario Kasun played for Frankfurt Skyliners.


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  DENMARK   


U18 European Championship: Greece edge Denmark to reach next round - by Eurobasket News

Greece U18 - Denmark U18 64:55

Greece advanced into the next round of U18 European Championship. They survived a tough battle versus Denmark to gain the first win at the tournament. Dimitrios Agravanis (208-F-94, agency: FCM) scored 18 points as Greece improved at 1-2 record in the third place in Group B. Denmark fell at 0-3 record.
The Scandinavian team got to the better start. They accumulated a 19:17 lead after ten minutes. Greece however stiffened their defence and held the Danish side to 6 points in the second quarter. The Hellenes posted a 32:25 halftime lead. Denmark surged back in front in the third term. The Scandinavian side accumulated a 47:43 lead with one quarter remaining. The Hellenes proved character in the final frame. They tipped off the fourth frame with a 10:2 run to spur in front. The margin grew at 7-point mark with under a minute to go and Greece hung on to escape with the victory. Michalis Kamperidis (203-F-94) provided 14 points and 11 rebounds, while Eleftherios Bochoridis (196-SG-94) added 12 points for the winners. Rasmus Larsen (212-C-94) answered with 16 points and 13 boards for Denmark. David Knudsen (193-F-94) netted 14 points in the loss.

Greece U18: Dimitrios Agravanis 18, Michalis Kamperidis 14+11 boards, Eleftherios Bochoridis 12
Denmark U18: Rasmus Larsen 16+13 boards, David Knudsen 14


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  D-LEAGUE   


Former BayHawks guard Brazelton to play in Europe - by Eurobasket News

Former Erie BayHawks point guard Tyrone Brazelton (6'1''-G-86, college: W.Kentucky) is returning to Europe after a season in the NBA D-League.

Brazelton, 26, has signed with Nuernberger BC of Germany's Bundesliga Pro A. In 2011 he played eight games in Germany with Eisbaeren Bremerhaven of the BBL, averaging 7.9 points and 2.4 assists. Brazelton also has played professionally in Latvia and Poland.

The 6-foot guard from Chicago averaged 8.4 points, 4.7 assists and 2.1 rebounds in 20 games after the BayHawks claimed him from the D-League available player pool in February. He went undrafted out of Western Kentucky in 2008.

Courtesy of www.goerie.com


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  ESTONIA   


U18 European Championship: Estonia celebrate second straight win in Sarajevo - by Eurobasket News

Estonia U18 - Luxembourg U18 65:63

Estonia earned the second consecutive win at the start of U18 European Championship in Division B. They held off Luxembourg for 2-0 record on top of Group B. Sander Saare (182-PG-94) came up with 14 points to lead the charge. Luxembourg in the meantime suffered the third loss in a row.
Estonia dominated the opening minutes. They posted a 17:12 lead after ten minutes. Luxembourg reacted with more aggressive defence in the second term. They cut the deficit and eventually pulled ahead for a 24:23 halftime lead. But Estonia turned things their way in the third quarter. The Baltic team shifted the gear scoring 29 points and taking a 10-point lead into the fourth stanza. Alain Gengler (202-C-94) and Bob Melcher (196-G-94) drained 7 free throws in a row midway through the fourth frame to level things up at 54. Wolff put Luxembourg in front 61:58 with just three minutes remaining. However Vene drained a decisive three-pointer and then Nomm added a free throw to seal the victory for Estonia. Martin Jurtom (198-PF-94) provided 11 points, while Georg Tambre (194-PF-94) added 8 poitns and 12 rebounds for the winners. Bob Melcher replied with 19 points for Luxembourg. Alain Gengler netted 15 points in the loss.

Estonia U18: Sander Saare 14, Martin Jurtom 11, Georg Tambre 8+12 boards
Luxembourg U18: Bob Melcher 19, Alain Gengler 15


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  EUROCUP   


Drucker, Jerusalem Add NBAer Craig Smith - by David Pick

Hapoel Jerusalem announced the signing of the 6-foot-7 American power-forward and 36th overall pick in the 2006 NBA Draft in Craig Smith.

Smith, who most recently played for Portland Trail Blazers averaging 3.3 points and 2.3 boards per game in 47 appearances, will make his European rookie debut on Sharon Drucker's Holy Land squad.

Smith is known to be a powerful force inside the paint and is very aggressive around the basket.

The California native also known as "Rhino" recorded 7.4 points and 5.1 rebounds in his rookie year (200607) with the Minnesota Timberwolves. He earned a starting role for the last five games of the season and averaged 12.0 points and 10.2 rebounds in 34.4 minutes of action.

Smith's NBA career high came on December 11, 2007, when he scored 36 points in a 88102 loss to the Washington Wizards, logging 38 minutes and making 14 of his 22 field goal
attempts

In addition to Smith, Drucker's off-season pickups include Israeli veteran Meir Tapiro (Agency: Avi Zilberman), and Americans Josh Duncan and Courtney Fells.




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  EUROLEAGUE   


Gran Canaria targets Jon Scheyer - by Eurobasket News

Gran Canaria is in talks with Jon Scheyer (196-G-87, agency: Priority Sports, college: Duke) as reported by solobasket.com. The guard spent the previous season in Israel. He played for Maccabi Tel-Aviv. Jon Scheyer notched 3.0 points and 1.0 rebound per game in Adriatic League. In Euroleague the guard posted 1.0 point per appearance. Jon Scheyer also posted 2.4 points per game in Israeli League. Previously Jon Scheyer played in D-League. This summer the guard participated at AirTran Orlando Summer League. He notched 3.7 points and 1.0 board per game at the event. Jon Scheyer is the product of famous Duke basketball school. He notched impressive 18.2 points, 4.9 assists, 3.6 boards and 1.6 steals per game in his senior season with the Blue Devils. Jon Scheyer became NCAA champion with Duke in 2010. The guard made it into USBasket.com All-NCAA D1 2nd Team.


Zalgiris land Oliver Lafayette - by Eurobasket News

Zalgiris stay active on the market. The latest addition to the roster is Oliver Lafayette (188-G-84, college: Houston). The guard started the previous season in Poland. He played for Asseco Prokom. Oliver Lafayette notched 10.7 points, 2.5 rebounds, 3.3 assists and 1.4 steals per game in Euroleague. In VTB League his stats read 7.0 points, 3.3 assists, 2.8 rebounds and 1.0 steal per appearance. In January Oliver Lafayette moved to Turkey. He penned deal with Anadolu Efes. Oliver Lafayette tallied 7.5 points, 2.5 boards and 2.5 assists per game in TBL. In Euroleague the guard delivered 8.7 points, 3.2 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 1.5 steals for the Istanbul team. Previously Oliver Lafayette had spells in Israel, D-League, Serbia, NBA and Mexico. He made it into All-Mexican LNBP 3rd Team in 2008.


Aleksandar Rasic in Italy - by Zoran Popovic

Serbian guard Aleksandar Rasic (194-G-84, agency: Beo Basket) is new player of Mens Suna Siena. During the last season in Lietuvos Rytas on 16 games in Eurocup Rasic average scored 7,1 points, 1,6 boards, 2,6 assists, on 20 games in VTB league average scored 5,1 points, 1,7 boards, 2,5 assists, on 21 games in Lithuanian league average scored 6,9 points, 2.0 boards and 2,7 assists per game. Before Mens Sana Siena and Lietuvos Rytas Rasic played for FMP Zeleznik, KK Borac Cacak, Efes Pilsen, Dynamo Moscow, Partizan Beograd and Trabzonspor Basketball. Aleksandar Rasic is member of Serbian National team.


Besiktas announce Gasper Vidmar - by Eurobasket News

Besiktas officially announced the arrival of Gasper Vidmar (211-C/F-87). The Slovenian player is loaned by Fenerbahce. Last season Gasper Vidmar averaged 4.1 points and 2.6 rebounds per game in Euroleague for Fenerbahce. Gasper Vidmar also notched 3.7 points and 2.4 rebounds per game in TBL. Previously Gasper Vidmar had stints with Union Olimpija, Geoplin Slovan and Ekipa Jance STZ. He was named All-Slovenian League Newcomer of the Year in 2006. Next year Gasper Vidmar was voted All-Slovenian League Most Improved Player of the Year. He also made it into All-Slovenian League 1st Team in 2007. Gasper Vidmar was the member of U16, U18 and U20 Slovenian National Teams. He has been the member of Slovenian National Team since 2007.


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  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U18   

Standings Division A

Standings
Group A
1. Spain3-0
2. Serbia2-1
3. Ukraine1-2
4. Germany0-3
Group B
1. Lithuania3-0
2. Italy2-1
3. Greece1-2
4. Denmark0-3
Group C
1. Bulgaria2-1
2. Latvia2-1
3. Turkey1-2
4. France1-2
Group D
1. Croatia3-0
2. Russia2-1
3. Slovenia1-2
4. Poland0-3

Preliminary Round: Round 3

A

Aug. 11: ESP - SRB 83-68
Aug. 11: UKR - GER 60-57

B

Aug. 11: LTU - ITA 81-71
Aug. 11: DEN - GRE 55-64

C

Aug. 11: TUR - FRA 66-56
Aug. 11: LAT - BUL 58-69

D

Aug. 11: CRO - RUS 74-63
Aug. 11: SLO - POL 69-63

Qualifying Round: Round 4

E

Aug. 13: ITA - SRB
Aug. 13: GRE - ESP
Aug. 13: LTU - UKR

F

Aug. 13: SLO - BUL
Aug. 13: RUS - LAT
Aug. 13: CRO - TUR

G

Aug. 13: GER - POL
Aug. 13: DEN - FRA


Stats Leaders Div. A

Points Per Game
 Dario SARIC
  CRO
  (208-F-94)
  Avg: 29.3
 1. Saric, CRO29.3 
 2. Tamulis, LTU24.3 
 3. Vezenkov, BUL21.0 
 4. Brzoja, CRO19.0 
 5. Imbro, ITA18.0 
 6. Agravanis, GRE17.7 
 7. Kulagin, RUS17.7 
 8. Rebec, SLO17.3 
 9. Sene, FRA17.0 
 10. Hernangomez, ESP17.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Mouhammadou JAITEH
  (206-C-94)
  Avg: 11.3
 1. Jaiteh, FRA11.3 
 2. Agravanis, GRE10.0 
 3. Krestininas, LTU9.7 
 4. Ristic, SRB9.0 
 5. Diop, ESP8.7 
 6. Gromovs, LAT8.7 
 7. Saric, CRO8.7 
 8. Kulagin, RUS8.3 
 9. Hernangomez, ESP8.0 
 10. Zvigurs, LAT8.0 
Assists Per Game
 Josep PEREZ
  (184-PG-94)
  Avg: 6.3
 1. Perez, ESP6.3 
 2. Rebec, SLO5.0 
 3. Radicevic, SRB5.0 
 4. Mavra, CRO5.0 
 5. Karamfilov, BUL4.7 
 6. Sipahi, TUR4.7 
 7. Sene, FRA4.7 
 8. Boyarkin, UKR4.7 
 9. Annaev, RUS4.3 
 10. Schenk, POL4.3 
Steals Per Game
 Aleksandar VEZENKOV
  CYP
  (205-SF-95)
  Avg: 3.7
 1. Vezenkov, BUL3.7 
 2. Hrovat, SLO3.0 
 3. Mustapic, CRO2.7 
 4. Annaev, RUS2.7 
 5. Lebo, CRO2.7 
 6. Kudrya, UKR2.7 
 7. Moendadze, FRA2.7 
 8. Kulagin, RUS2.3 
 9. Erulku, TUR2.3 
 10. Tessitori, ITA2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Ilja GROMOVS
  (207-C-94)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. Gromovs, LAT2.7 
 2. Tessitori, ITA2.3 
 3. Ristic, SRB2.0 
 4. Krestininas, LTU1.7 
 5. Kanygin, RUS1.7 
 6. Saric, CRO1.7 
 7. Kamperidis, GRE1.3 
 8. Ritlop, SLO1.3 
 9. Zagreba, UKR1.3 
 10. Koreniuk, UKR1.3 


M-Standings - Group B

Standings Div.B
Group A
1. U.Kingdom3-0
2. Hungary2-1
3. Israel2-1
4. Romania1-2
5. Belarus1-2
6. Scotland0-3
Group B
1. Czech Rep.2-0
2. Estonia2-0
3. Austria2-1
4. Slovakia0-2
5. Luxembourg.0-3
Group C
1. Iceland3-0
2. Montenegro.2-1
3. Sweden2-1
4. Finland2-1
5. Norway0-3
6. Switzerlan.0-3
Group D
1. Bosnia3-0
2. Belgium1-1
3. Holland1-1
4. Portugal1-2
5. Georgia0-2

Preliminary Round: Round 3

A

Aug. 11: ISR - HUN 78-58
Aug. 11: ENG - ROM 60-55
Aug. 11: SCO - BLR 52-78

B

Aug. 11: EST - LUX 65-63
Aug. 11: AUT - SVK 56-52

C

Aug. 11: FIN - SWE 91-76
Aug. 11: ISL - NOR 81-65
Aug. 11: MNT - SUI 77-57

D

Aug. 11: BIH - GEO 85-74
Aug. 11: BEL - POR 71-45

Preliminary Round: Round 4

A

Aug. 12: HUN - ENG
Aug. 12: ROM - SCO
Aug. 12: BLR - ISR

B

Aug. 12: CZE - AUT
Aug. 12: SVK - EST

C

Aug. 12: SWE - ISL
Aug. 12: NOR - MNT
Aug. 12: SUI - FIN

D

Aug. 12: NED - BIH
Aug. 12: GEO - BEL


Stats Leader

Points Per Game
 Jusuf NURKIC
  BIH
  (212-C-94)
  Avg: 21.7
 1. Nurkic, BIH21.7 
 2. Schilder, NED21.5 
 3. Mikeladze, GEO21.0 
 4. Mikovic, MNT20.7 
 5. Ausprunk, CZE20.5 
 6. Hermannsson, ISL20.0 
 7. Lehtoranta, FIN19.7 
 8. Patupchyk, BLR19.5 
 9. Ramstedt, SWE17.3 
 10. Koulechov, ISR17.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jakob POELTL
  (208-PF-95)
  Avg: 15.7
 1. Poltl, AUT15.7 
 2. Ausprunk, CZE15.0 
 3. Nurkic, BIH14.3 
 4. Lepovic, NOR11.7 
 5. Burjanadze, GEO11.5 
 6. Koulechov, ISR10.3 
 7. Okoroh, ENG9.7 
 8. Popovici, ROM9.0 
 9. Astashou, BLR9.0 
 10. Ramstedt, SWE8.7 
Assists Per Game
 Radovan KOURIL
  CZE
  (180-PG-95)
  Avg: 8.5
 1. Kouril, CZE8.5 
 2. Vrbica, MNT6.0 
 3. Saare, EST5.5 
 4. Nemcok, SVK5.0 
 5. Perl, HUN5.0 
 6. Lecomte, BEL4.5 
 7. Magnusson, SWE4.3 
 8. Vrabac, BIH4.3 
 9. Fridriksson, ISL4.3 
 10. Mikeladze, GEO4.0 
Steals Per Game
 Sander SAARE
  (182-PG-94)
  Avg: 3
 1. Saare, EST3.0 
 2. Vrbica, MNT3.0 
 3. Koulechov, ISR3.0 
 4. Mattila, FIN3.0 
 5. Dawit, SWE2.7 
 6. Lehtoranta, FIN2.7 
 7. Hazard, BEL2.5 
 8. Mckay, SCO2.5 
 9. Orija, ENG2.3 
 10. Andjelkovic, SUI2.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Karel AUSPRUNK
  (200-F/C-94)
  Avg: 4
 1. Ausprunk, CZE4.0 
 2. Okoroh, ENG3.0 
 3. Rajala, FIN2.7 
 4. Bliznets, BLR2.0 
 5. Mikovic, MNT2.0 
 6. Poltl, AUT1.7 
 7. Zalmanson, ISR1.5 
 8. Nurkic, BIH1.3 
 9. Segev, ISR1.3 
 10. Spires, SWE1.3 


The End of Preliminary Round in Latvia and Lithuania - by Eurobasket News

Group A
Spain - Serbia 83-68
Spain stayed undefeated at the end of preliminary round of U18 European Championship. The defending champions defeated Serbia to clinch the top position in Group A with 3-0 record. Serbia suffered the first loss to slip at 2-1 record. Josep Perez (184-PG-94) stepped up with 18 points, 6 boards and 6 assists for the winners. Spain surged ahead in the first term. The reigning champions dominated to post a 23:14 lead after ten minutes. But Serbia found the weapons to strike back. The Balkan team denied the deficit and snatched a 37:35 halftime lead. But Spain answered with a massive rally in the third term. They erupted for 31 points in the quarter building a 19-point lead at the final break. Serbia cut the distance to 12 points but could not get any closer surrendering at the end. Guillermo Hernangomez (209-C-94) scored 13 points, while Alberto Diaz and Ilimane Diop added 12 points each for Spain. Nikola Radicevic (194-G-94) answered with 15 points for Serbia. Luka Andusic netted 13 points in the loss.

Ukraine - Germany 60-57
Ukraine registered the initial victory at the U18 European Championship. They held off Germany in the decisive battle for both teams in Group A. Vladyslav Koreniuk (206-C-94) nailed 19 points to lead the winners as they advanced to the next stage of the tournament after the victory. Ukraine held Germany to 13 points in the opening quarter to take a 3-point lead. But Germany answered with an aggressive defence in the second term. They limited Ukraine to 8 points to surge ahead. The German team accumulated a 29:24 halftime advantage. Germany extended the lead in the third quarter. David Taylor (188-PG-95) posted 6 points in the period and Germany entered the fourth quarter up by 8 points 50:42. Ukraine used an 8:1 run to cut the deficit to a single point 55:56. Lugovtsov drained a triple to put Ukraine in front 58:57 with just over a minute remaining. Shevchenko stretched the lead to three points and then David Taylor missed a three-point attempt as Ukraine escaped with a key victory at the end. Igor Boyarkin (185-PG-95) notched 10 points, 8 assists and 5 boards, while Volodymyr Pishchikov and Stanislav Kudrya added 6 points each for the winners. David Taylor and Malik Mueller (188-G-94) responded with 12 points each for Germany.

Group B
Lithuania - Italy 81-71
Lithuania finished the preliminary round of U18 European Championship undefeated. They overcame Italy to clinch the top position in Group B. Justas Tamulis (194-SF-94, agency: Beo Basket) stepped up with 30 points to lead the Baltic team. Italy fell at 2-1 record and occupied the second position in the ladder. The teams went neck and neck throughout the opening quarter. The hosts eked out a 24:23 lead after ten minutes. Italy changed the complexion of the game in the second quarter. The Azzurri slowed the hosts down holding Lithuania to just 12 points in the frame. Italy pulled ahead for a 41:36 halftime lead. Lithuania however regained control in the third term. They went on a 13:3 rally to take a 54:49 advantage. Denis Krestinin capped the frame with a three-pointer to give Lithuania a 62:53 advantage. Lekavicius and Justas Tamulis connected from beyond the arc early in the fourth frame and Lithuania cruised to the victory at the end. Marius Grigonis (198-F-94) notched 17 points, while Denis Krestinin added 16 points for the winners. Matteo Imbro (192-PG-94) responded with 24 points for Italy. Luca Vencato and Amedeo Tessitori contributed 11 points each in the loss.

Denmark - Greece 55-64
Greece advanced into the next round of U18 European Championship. They survived a tough battle versus Denmark to gain the first win at the tournament. Dimitrios Agravanis (208-F-94, agency: FCM) scored 18 points as Greece improved at 1-2 record in the third place in Group B. Denmark fell at 0-3 record. The Scandinavian team got to the better start. They accumulated a 19:17 lead after ten minutes. Greece however stiffened their defence and held the Danish side to 6 points in the second quarter. The Hellenes posted a 32:25 halftime lead. Denmark surged back in front in the third term. The Scandinavian side accumulated a 47:43 lead with one quarter remaining. The Hellenes proved character in the final frame. They tipped off the fourth frame with a 10:2 run to spur in front. The margin grew at 7-point mark with under a minute to go and Greece hung on to escape with the victory. Michalis Kamperidis (203-F-94) provided 14 points and 11 rebounds, while Eleftherios Bochoridis added 12 points for the winners. Rasmus Larsen (212-C-94) answered with 16 points and 13 boards for Denmark. David Knudsen netted 14 points in the loss.

Group C
Latvia - Bulgaria 58-69
Bulgaria finished U18 European Championship preliminary round in a blistering fashion. They knocked down hosting Latvia to claim the top position in Group C. Latvia finished second after the defeat. The victory of Bulgaria also means that France will now play in the relegation round. Bulgaria surged ahead early in the encounter. The visitors posted an 18:16 lead at the first break. Bulgaria stretched the lead in the second quarter. They extended the margin to 12 points at halftime 41:29. Bulgaria maintained the advantage throughout the third term. They entered the fourth period up by 13 points 54:41. Latvia tipped off the fourth frame with back-to-back triples to get closer. But Bulgaria soon restored an 11-point lead and cruised to the victory at the end. Denislav Vutev (206-C-94) posted 18 points, while Nikolay Stoyanov (195-SF-94) added 13 points for the winners. Ivars Zvigurs (195-G/F-95) answered with 11 points for Latvia. Davis Geks had 10 points in the loss.

Turkey - France 66-56
Turkey clinched the crucial win over France in the third round of preliminary action at U18 European Championship. The victory means Turkey advances into the next round of action. France will have to wait for the result of Latvia vs. Bulgaria clash to get to know their fate. Kenan Sipahi (198-PG-95) and Cedi Osman (195-SG-95) scored 11 points each to lead well-balanced Turkish effort in the initial victory for the team. Turkey jumped in front in the opening quarter. Aggressive defence helped them accumulate a 15:11 lead after ten minutes. Turkey boosted the lead in the second quarter. They accumulated a 39:29 halftime advantage. France stopped the rot in the third term. Les Bleus got within 8 points at the final intermission. But Turkey held their opponents to 11 points in the final stanza and sealed the victory at the end. Tayfun Erulku (193-SG-94) netted 10 points for the winners. Benjamin Sene (186-PG-94) responded with 22 points for France. Mouhammadou Jaiteh had 15 points and 12 boards in the loss.

Group D
Croatia - Russia 74-63
Croatia stayed on the winning track at U18 European Championship. They thumped Russia to improve at 3-0 record on top of Group D. Dario Saric (208-F-94) put on another amazing performance finishing with 32 points, 13 boards and 2 assists before fouling out. Russia fell at 2-1 record after the loss. Russia ensured the better start. They posted a 21:19 lead ten minutes into the game. Croatia adjusted defensively in the second quarter. They tipped off the period with 12 points in a row. Croatia gained the tempo and ensured a 37:33 halftime lead. The margin grew at 16-point mark midway through the third term. Russia cut the deficit to 10 points at the final break 47:57. Russia narrowed the margin to 4 points midway through the fourth term. But Croatia sparked with a 7:0 run and cleared off for good. Mislav Brzoja (196-F/G-94) notched 16 points for the winners. Mikhail Kulagin (188-G-94) answered with 14 points for Russia. Serdar Annaev had 11 points and 6 assists in the loss.

Slovenia - Poland 69-63
Slovenia registered the first win at the U18 European Championship. They overcame Poland in the crucial game for both teams at the preliminary round. The victory allowed Slovenia to stay in the title race. Poland slipped at 0-3 record and fell into the relegation round. Tomaz Bolcina (206-F/C-94) posted 22 points and grabbed 8 rebounds for the winners. Poland jumped to an early lead. They established a 23:12 lead at the first break. But Slovenia silenced their opponents in the second quarter. They ignited a 28:8 run to secure a 9-point halftime lead. Poland cut the deficit in the third stanza. They got within 6 points at the final intermission 48:51. Sovenia and Poland exchanged baskets throughout the final term. Poland cut the distance to 3 points with one minute remaining. But Matic Rebec (180-PG-95) and Nikolic hit five free throws in the dying stages to seal the victory at the end. Matic Rebec notched 21 points and 8 assists, while Gregor Hrovat added 10 points for the winning side. Kacper Radwanski (189-G/F-94) responded with 17 points for Poland. Mikolaj Witlinski and Kacper Borowski had 12 points apiece in the loss.


Division B: Day 3 in Sarajevo - by Eurobasket News

Group A
United Kingdom - Romania 60-55
England clinched the third straight win at the U18 European Championship in Division B. They knocked down Romania to stay perfect in Group A. Luke Nelson (189-PG-95) knocked down 19 points to lead the winners. Romania fell at 1-2 record after the loss. England started the game confidently. They limited Romania to 10 points in the opening quarter earning a 6-point lead. England stretched the lead in the second term. They ensured a 41:24 halftime advantage. Romania slowed their opponents down in the third term. They narrowed the margin to 11 points heading into the fourth stanza. Romania got within a single point midway through the final term. But Luke Nelson four points and Dwayne Orija added two more in the final three minutes to seal the victory for England. Kingsley Okoroh (213-C-95) had 11 points and 11 rebounds for England. Vlad Popovici (200-PF-94) answered with 20 points and 11 rebounds for Romania. Vlad Cobzaru netted 10 points in the loss.

Israel - Hungary 78-58
Israel clinched the second victory in U18 European Championship in Division B. They outgun Hungary for 2-1 record in Group A. Egor Koulechov (194-SF-94) scored 23 points and grabbed 10 rebounds to pace the winners. Hungary suffered the first loss at the tournament to slip at 2-1 record. Hungary secured a 20:16 lead ten minutes into the game. But Israel rebounded in the second term. They posted a 37:32 halftime advantage. Israel held their opponents to just 8 points in the third quarter to boost the lead. Israel ensured a 16-point advantage at the final intermission. They kept Hungary at bay throughout the fourth stanza and rolled to a comfortable victory at the end. Daniel Sealine (187-SG-94) accouted for 17 points, while Itay Segev added 13 points and 14 rebounds for the winners. Zoltan Perl (194-G-95) answered with 18 points and 9 boards for Hungary. Janos Velkey had 10 points in the loss.


Belarus - Scotland 78-52

Group B
Austria - Slovakia 56-52
Austria celebrated the second victory at U18 European Championship in Division B. They knocked down Slovakia to improve at 2-1 record, while the Slovaks slipped at 0-2. Slovakia jumped to an early lead. They posted a 13:12 advantage at the first intermission. Slovakia boosted the lead in the second quarter. They cleared off to a 7-point lead at halftime 28:21. But Austria managed to turn the tables in the second half. Austria cut the distance to a single point at the final break. Mueller and Benedikt Guettl put Austria in front midway through the final stanza 46:45. Slovakia regained the lead but Valentin Bauer (181-PG-94) and Jakob Poeltl (208-PF-95) put Austria in charge late in regulation and sealed the victory at the end. Jakob Poeltl came up with 16 points and 14 rebounds for Austria. Valentin Bauer added 14 points for the winners. Robert Rozim (199-F-94) answered with 16 points for Slovakia. Martin Matejcik had 9 points in the loss.

Estonia - Luxembourg 65-63
Estonia earned the second consecutive win at the start of U18 European Championship in Division B. They held off Luxembourg for 2-0 record on top of Group B. Sander Saare (182-PG-94) came up with 14 points to lead the charge. Luxembourg in the meantime suffered the third loss in a row. Estonia dominated the opening minutes. They posted a 17:12 lead after ten minutes. Luxembourg reacted with more aggressive defence in the second term. They cut the deficit and eventually pulled ahead for a 24:23 halftime lead. But Estonia turned things their way in the third quarter. The Baltic team shifted the gear scoring 29 points and taking a 10-point lead into the fourth stanza. Alain Gengler and Bob Melcher (196-G-94) drained 7 free throws in a row midway through the fourth frame to level things up at 54. Wolff put Luxembourg in front 61:58 with just three minutes remaining. However Vene drained a decisive three-pointer and then Nomm added a free throw to seal the victory for Estonia. Martin Jurtom (198-PF-94) provided 11 points, while Georg Tambre added 8 poitns and 12 rebounds for the winners. Bob Melcher replied with 19 points for Luxembourg. Alain Gengler netted 15 points in the loss.

Group C
Montenegro - Switzerland 77-57
Montenegro registered the second win at the U18 European Championship in Division B. They overcame Switzerland in Group C action. Montenegro improved thus at 2-1 record, while Switzerland slipped at 0-3. Milija Mikovic (205-C-94) came up with 29 points to pace the winners. Montenegro held their counterparts to 8 points in the first quarter to take a 7-point lead. Montenegro consolidated their lead in the second quarter. The Balkan team went on a 27:11 rally to deepen the margin. Montenegro entered the second half up by 23 points. Switzerland cut the margin in the third term. They got within 14 points at the final intermission. But Montenegro reacted with 21:15 run in the fourth term and sealed the victory. Vasilije Vusovic (191-G-94) netted 9 points, while Masan Vrbica contributed 8 points for the winning side. Daniel Andjelkovic (200-PF-94) answered with 16 points for Switzerland. Leo Schittenhelm had 14 points in defeat.

Iceland - Norway 81-65
Iceland kept winning at U18 European Championship Division B. They posted the third straight win at the tournament beating Norway. Iceland are on top of the ladder in Group C. Norway suffered the third straight loss and remained winless. Iceland eked out an 18:16 lead after ten minutes. Norway bounced back in the second term. They surged ahead to take a 33:32 halftime lead. Iceland increased the tempo in the third quarter. They fired 26 points to secure a 5-point lead heading into the fourth stanza. Iceland took over completely in the final period. They outgunned Norway 23:12 in the final ten minutes and sealed the victory at the end. Martin Hermannsson (190-SG-94) provided 20 points to lead the charge. Elvar Fridriksson (180-PG-94) added 18 points, while Valur Valsson contributed 14 points for the winners. Nikola Blatancic (194-F-94) answered with 25 points for Norway. Nicholas Seach and Marko Lepovic had 7 points apiece in the loss.

Finland - Sweden 91-76
Finland recorded the second victory at the U18 European Championship in Division B. Joonas Lehtoranta (183-SG-94) knocked down 29 points to pace the Finnish side past Sweden. Finland climbed at 2-1 record, while Sweden slipped at 2-1 record in Group C. Finland and Sweden started the game aggressively. They teamed up for 46 points in the first stanza to stay tied at 23. Finland cleared off in the second term. They posted a 44:37 halftime advantage. Sweden denied the deficit in the third quarter. They pulled ahead for a 2-point lead at the final break. But Finland exploded with 33 points in the last ten minutes and sealed the victory at the end. Iikka Maki (191-SF-94) and Niko Mattila (191-SG-94) nailed 14 points each for the winning side. Adam Ramstedt (203-SF-95) replied with 22 points and 14 rebounds for Sweden. Alexander Gorski notched 18 points in the loss.

Group D
Bosnia - Georgia 85-74
Bosnia and Herzegovina celebrated the third victory in a row at the start of U18 European Championship in Division B. The hosts held off Georgia to stay perfect in Group D. Jusuf Nurkic (212-C-94) came up with 31 points and 15 rebounds to lead the winners. Georgia looked confident early in the game. The visitors fired 24 points in the opening quarter to take a 3-point lead at the first break. But Bosnia and Herzegovina gradually took over. The home side eked out a 41:40 halftime lead. Bosnia and Herzegovina started to get away in the third quarter. They ensured 9-point lead before the fourth stanza. Bosnia and Herzegovina kept Georgia at safe distance throughout the fourth term and sealed the victory at the end. Adin Vrabac (202-G/F-94) nailed 17 points, issued 7 assists and grabbed 6 boards for the winners. Irakli Mikeladze (180-PG-94) answered with 25 points for Georgia. Beka Burjanadze had 12 points and 14 boards in the loss.

Belgium - Portugal 71-45
Belgium opened win count at U18 European Championship in Division B. They held off Portugal to improve at 1-1 record in Group D. Portugal in the meantime slipped at 1-2 record. Belgium cleared off in the opening quarter. They held Portugal to only 6 points in the opening quarter to take a 14-point lead. Belgium maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. They established a 35:18 halftime lead. Belgium exploded with 27 points in the third quarter. They piled up a 29-point advantage with one quarter remaining. Portugal could not recover and had to surrender at the end. Louis Hazard (199-F-94) scored 12 points for Belgium. Naim El Khounchar (193-G-94) and Emmanuel Lecomte (180-G-95) netted 10 points apiece for the winning side. Pedro Marques (173-PG-95) answered with 16 points for Portugal. Isaias Insaly netted 7 points in the loss.


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  FINLAND   


U18 European Championship: Finland hand Sweden first loss - by Eurobasket News

Finland U18 - Sweden U18 91:76

Finland recorded the second victory at the U18 European Championship in Division B. Joonas Lehtoranta (183-SG-94) knocked down 29 points to pace the Finnish side past Sweden. Finland climbed at 2-1 record, while Sweden slipped at 2-1 record in Group C.
Finland and Sweden started the game aggressively. They teamed up for 46 points in the first stanza to stay tied at 23. Finland cleared off in the second term. They posted a 44:37 halftime advantage. Sweden denied the deficit in the third quarter. They pulled ahead for a 2-point lead at the final break. But Finland exploded with 33 points in the last ten minutes and sealed the victory at the end. Iikka Maki (191-SF-94) and Niko Mattila (191-SG-94) nailed 14 points each for the winning side. Adam Ramstedt (203-SF-95) replied with 22 points and 14 rebounds for Sweden. Alexander Gorski (193-SG-94) notched 18 points in the loss.

Finland U18: Joonas Lehtoranta 29, Iikka Maki 14, Niko Mattila 14
Sweden U18: Adam Ramstedt 22+14 boards, Alexander Gorski 18


Jan-Hendrik Jagla lifts Germany past Finland in Bamberg - by Eurobasket News

Germany - Finland 79:70

Germany claimed the first victory at the Beko-SuperCup tournament. The hosts overcame Finland in Bamberg. Jan-Hendrik Jagla (213-PF-81, college: Penn St.) scored 20 points to pace the hosts.
Finland jumped to an early lead. They established an 18:17 advantage after ten minutes. Germany gained the tempo in the second quarter. The hosts secured a 40:35 halftime lead. Finland stayed close throughout the third term. The Finnish team trimmed the deficit at 4-point mark at the final intermission. The visitors trailed by four points heading into the final minute but Germany scored four points in a row and cleared off for good. Robin Benzing (208-F-89) and Per Guenther (185-G-88) provided 12 points apiece for Germany. Petteri Koponen (194-G-88) chipped in 23 points for Finland. Shawn Huff (198-G/F-84, college: Valparaiso) posted 15 points in the loss.

Germany: Jan-Hendrik Jagla 20, Robin Benzing 12, Per Guenther 12
Finland: Petteri Koponen 23, Shawn Huff 15


1.DIVISION: BC Nokia signed with Kraidon Woods - by Rauno Hurmalainen

BC Nokia has signed with American F-C Kraidon Woods (205-F-88) for coming 2012-13 season. Woods graduated from Drake University last spring and averaged 3,3 ppg, 4,1 rpg, 1,2 bpg in 32 games as a Senior. Finnish Basketball Federation didn't give Torpan Pojat (Helsinki) the lisence to play in Korisliiga (Top League) 2012-13, but has now given ToPo juniors a place on the second highest level called Division 1A. Team's new Head Coach is not Mihailo Pavicevic from Montenegro, but Kimmo Kujansivu from Helsinki.


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  FRANCE   


Quimper tab Corey Raji - by Eurobasket News

Quimper bolstered their frontcourt. They agreed on terms of contract with Corey Raji (198-F-88, agency: Pro Partner Sports Management, college: Boston Coll.). The forward started his pro career last season. He signed with Etzella in Luxembourg. Corey Raji notched 23.8 points, 10.1 boards, 2.4 assists per game in his debut pro season. Eurobasket.com named Corey Raji into All-Luxembourg League 2nd Team. The forward graduated from the Boston College in 2011. His stats read 12.1 points, 6.7 rebounds and 1.6 assists per game in the senior season. Corey Raji has a vast range of play. He can be helpful in small forward, power forward and centre positions.


U18 European Championship: Turkey stay alive with victory over France - by Eurobasket News

Turkey U18 - France U18 66:56

Turkey clinched the crucial win over France in the third round of preliminary action at U18 European Championship. The victory means Turkey advances into the next round of action. France will have to wait for the result of Latvia vs. Bulgaria clash to get to know their fate. Kenan Sipahi (198-PG-95) and Cedi Osman (195-SG-95) scored 11 points each to lead well-balanced Turkish effort in the initial victory for the team.
Turkey jumped in front in the opening quarter. Aggressive defence helped them accumulate a 15:11 lead after ten minutes. Turkey boosted the lead in the second quarter. They accumulated a 39:29 halftime advantage. France stopped the rot in the third term. Les Bleus got within 8 points at the final intermission. But Turkey held their opponents to 11 points in the final stanza and sealed the victory at the end. Tayfun Erulku (193-SG-94) netted 10 points for the winners. Benjamin Sene (186-PG-94) responded with 22 points for France. Mouhammadou Jaiteh (207-C-94) had 15 points and 12 boards in the loss.

Turkey U18: Kenan Sipahi 11, Cedi Osman 11, Tayfun Erulku 10
France U18: Benjamin Sene 22, Mouhammadou Jaiteh 15+12 boards


Puy land Dragan Petronic and Amir El Fakarany - by Eurobasket News

Puy bolstered their roster. They announced Dragan Petronic (206-F/C-82) and Amir El Fakarany (199-F-89).
Dragan Petronic spent the last two seasons with Radnicki. The centre averaged 8.2 points and 4.0 boards per game in A League last season. Previously Dragan Petronic had stints with Trebinje and Kolubara Lazarevac. He earned All-Serbian B League Honourable Mention in 2011.
Amir El Fakarany played in Stade Montois in NM2 League last season.


Nantes bring in Terrance Henry - by Eurobasket News

Nantes bolstered their frontcourt. They inked contract with Terrance Henry (208-F-89, agency: Pro One Sports). The forward will start his pro career in France. Terrance Henry graduated from the University of Mississippi in 2012. He tallied 12.3 points, 4.5 rebounds, 1.6 assists and 1.0 block per game in his senior season. Terrance Henry participated at Portsmouth Invitational Tournament. He notched 10.0 points, 5.3 rebounds, 1.3 assists and 1.0 block per appearance at the tourney. Later the forward took part at NBA Pro Summer League. He accounted for 3.0 points, 3.0 rebounds per game in Las Vegas. Terrance Henry will join James Mathis (200-F/C-84, agency: Court Side, college: Niagara) and LaMarshall Corbett (190-G-88, college: Angelo St.) who have signed with Nantes before.


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  GEORGIA   


U18 European Championship: Bosnia and Herzegovina stay perfect - by Eurobasket News

Bosnia and Herzegovina U18 - Georgia U18 85:74

Bosnia and Herzegovina celebrated the third victory in a row at the start of U18 European Championship in Division B. The hosts held off Georgia to stay perfect in Group D. Jusuf Nurkic (212-C-94) came up with 31 points and 15 rebounds to lead the winners.
Georgia looked confident early in the game. The visitors fired 24 points in the opening quarter to take a 3-point lead at the first break. But Bosnia and Herzegovina gradually took over. The home side eked out a 41:40 halftime lead. Bosnia and Herzegovina started to get away in the third quarter. They ensured 9-point lead before the fourth stanza. Bosnia and Herzegovina kept Georgia at safe distance throughout the fourth term and sealed the victory at the end. Adin Vrabac (202-G/F-94) nailed 17 points, issued 7 assists and grabbed 6 boards for the winners. Irakli Mikeladze (180-PG-94) answered with 25 points for Georgia. Beka Burjanadze (203-PF-94) had 12 points and 14 boards in the loss.

Bosnia and Herzegovina U18: Jusuf Nurkic 31+15 boards, Adin Vrabac 17, Nedim Buza 9, Stefan Glogovac 9
Georgia U18: Irakli Mikeladze 25, Beka Burjanadze 12+14 boards


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  GERMANY   


U18 European Championship: Ukraine topple Germany for first win - by Eurobasket News

Ukraine U18 - Germany U18 60:57

Ukraine registered the initial victory at the U18 European Championship. They held off Germany in the decisive battle for both teams in Group A. Vladyslav Koreniuk (206-C-94) nailed 19 points to lead the winners as they advanced to the next stage of the tournament after the victory.
Ukraine held Germany to 13 points in the opening quarter to take a 3-point lead. But Germany answered with an aggressive defence in the second term. They limited Ukraine to 8 points to surge ahead. The German team accumulated a 29:24 halftime advantage. Germany extended the lead in the third quarter. David Taylor (188-PG-95) posted 6 points in the period and Germany entered the fourth quarter up by 8 points 50:42. Ukraine used an 8:1 run to cut the deficit to a single point 55:56. Lugovtsov drained a triple to put Ukraine in front 58:57 with just over a minute remaining. Shevchenko stretched the lead to three points and then David Taylor missed a three-point attempt as Ukraine escaped with a key victory at the end. Igor Boyarkin (185-PG-95) notched 10 points, 8 assists and 5 boards, while Volodymyr Pishchikov (187-SG-94) and Stanislav Kudrya (189-PG-95) added 6 points each for the winners. David Taylor and Malik Mueller (188-G-94) responded with 12 points each for Germany.

Ukraine U18: Vladyslav Koreniuk 19, Igor Boyarkin 10, Volodymyr Pishchikov 6, Stanislav Kudrya 6
Germany U18: David Taylor 12, Malik Mueller 12


Jan-Hendrik Jagla lifts Germany past Finland in Bamberg - by Eurobasket News

Germany - Finland 79:70

Germany claimed the first victory at the Beko-SuperCup tournament. The hosts overcame Finland in Bamberg. Jan-Hendrik Jagla (213-PF-81, college: Penn St.) scored 20 points to pace the hosts.
Finland jumped to an early lead. They established an 18:17 advantage after ten minutes. Germany gained the tempo in the second quarter. The hosts secured a 40:35 halftime lead. Finland stayed close throughout the third term. The Finnish team trimmed the deficit at 4-point mark at the final intermission. The visitors trailed by four points heading into the final minute but Germany scored four points in a row and cleared off for good. Robin Benzing (208-F-89) and Per Guenther (185-G-88) provided 12 points apiece for Germany. Petteri Koponen (194-G-88) chipped in 23 points for Finland. Shawn Huff (198-G/F-84, college: Valparaiso) posted 15 points in the loss.

Germany: Jan-Hendrik Jagla 20, Robin Benzing 12, Per Guenther 12
Finland: Petteri Koponen 23, Shawn Huff 15


The Finke Baskets Paderborn Are Born - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Being a Paderborn baskets fan was a lot of fun in mid 2000 when they were building a winning team along side the three musketeers with TIm Black, Steven Esterkamp and Marius Nolte, winning 50 games in a row and moving up to the Beko BBL and almost beating Alba Berlin in a 5 game playoff series in 2009, but since then it has been tough being a fan as the club moved back down to the second Bundesliga and even changing names often making it harder to keep an identity. Fans had to get used to names like Paderborn 91, Schroeno Paderborn Baskets or Webmoebel Baskets Paderborn. In the last month fans got another schock as it was announced that the club didnt have the needed capital to contnue, but as is the case so often, the club was saved and can continue to commence operations, but again under a new name. According to mw-news.de and the team website the team has a new main sponser and will be called Finke Baskets Paderborn. The Paderborn Furinture retail company is the new sponsor. The contract is for three years with the Paderborn Furniture retaill company. "This is a good day for the basketball in the city. On Thursday, we were able to agree to a three year contract with the Finke company group. With Finke, we have found an important, stragetic partner for the basketball place Paderborn", stressed Baskets president Wolfgang Walter.

Source: www.paderborn-baskets.de


Jermelle Fraser (I Can Play At Different Speeds All The Time) - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Jermelle Fraser (186-PG-87) is a 186cm guard that was born in 1987. He is a pure point guard with good passing qualities and is good at changing speeds. He played at at Suny Maritime (NCAA 3). In his senior year, he played 21 games averaging 8,2ppg, 2,5rpg and 2,5apg. He is still looking to land with a team in Europe for a full season. Recently he took part for the Jersey G-Force of the IBL league in training camp. He spoke to Eurobasket about basketball.

Thanks for talking to eurobasket.com. Where are you at the moment and how has your summer been?

Thank you for your time. I am currently in NYC where I was born and raised. My summer so far has been pretty good, I can't complain at all

You have played for some touring teams but never a complete season in Europe. How tough has the job market been this summer?

The market has been really tough this summer. And As a guard its always tougher. Theres just so many of us out here all trying to get the same spot

Teams in countries like Germany, Finland and England are interested in you. What makes your game suitable to the European style?

A few things make my game suitable. I'm a tough guard with both speed and quickness. I can play at different speeds all the time so that definitely helps

Your a classic point guard that is atrue floor general. What is your strongest quality on the court?

My strongest quality I'd have to say is defense, whether its on or off the ball. Its something I take pride in.

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

My rebounding ability usually doesnt get noticed right away. I'm about 6ft, but I have a long wiry strong frame along with some good athleticism

Which player was your role model as a kid and what player do you look up to now?

Michael Jordan was my role model as a kid. I looked up to him then and still do now.

What has been the best experience you have had as a player since finishing at Suny Maritime in 2009?

I would say touring and competing in England around September with the USA Select squad. Although I wasn't able to get picked up at the time, all in all it was a good experience

If you could describe yourself in a few sentences how would you sell yourself to a professional team the best?

Jermelle Fraser posseses a strong work ethic .. He is a relentless defender and can help run any team with the ball in his hands

How does a typical summer workout day look for you in 2012?

Well .. I try to focus on conditioning. When I am in tip-top shape I feel I can do whatever I please on the basketball court. Then I try to get alot of shots up. Particularly outside the arch and pulling up in the lane, things I didnt have in college. Calisthenics and a little bit of weights every other day.

Who would beat who in their prime, the Dream team or 2012 team USA?

That is a good question! I actually had a discussion about this the other day with some fellow Bball friends... DREAM TEAM

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

One of my favorites... "Above the Rim"

Thanks Jermelle for the chat.


White Wings Hanau sign Matthias Moelle - by Moritz Korff

Matthias Moelle (199-F-87) has inked a deal with the White Wings Hanau, the 2. Bundesliga Pro B team said. Moelle played for Oldenburg in the 1. Regionalliga North last season and averaged 9.6 points, 4.2 rebounds on the way to a RLN championship. The 25-year-old forward was named 2011-12 Eurobasket.com All-Regionalliga North Honorable Mention. He previously played for the Bremen Roosters, Herzoege Wolfenbuettel and SC Rasta Vechta.


Diestelhorst stays with BSW Sixers - Kovacs named coach assistant - by Moritz Korff

Frieder Diestelhorst (201-F-87, agency: Limelight Hoops) has extended his contract with the BSW Sixers (2. Bundesliga Pro B) for the 2011-12 season. The 25-year-old forward averaged 11 points and 4.2 rebounds a game last season. Meanwhile, Stefan Ahnsehl (182-G-88) won't play for the Sixers in 2012-13.
Nandor Kovacs has been appointed the new assistant coach. The 32-year-old was in charge of the Aschersleben Tigers (1. Regionalliga North) as a head coach since 2008 and previously was at the helm of former women's Bundesliga team Leipzig Eagles.


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


U18 European Championship: Greece edge Denmark to reach next round - by Eurobasket News

Greece U18 - Denmark U18 64:55

Greece advanced into the next round of U18 European Championship. They survived a tough battle versus Denmark to gain the first win at the tournament. Dimitrios Agravanis (208-F-94, agency: FCM) scored 18 points as Greece improved at 1-2 record in the third place in Group B. Denmark fell at 0-3 record.
The Scandinavian team got to the better start. They accumulated a 19:17 lead after ten minutes. Greece however stiffened their defence and held the Danish side to 6 points in the second quarter. The Hellenes posted a 32:25 halftime lead. Denmark surged back in front in the third term. The Scandinavian side accumulated a 47:43 lead with one quarter remaining. The Hellenes proved character in the final frame. They tipped off the fourth frame with a 10:2 run to spur in front. The margin grew at 7-point mark with under a minute to go and Greece hung on to escape with the victory. Michalis Kamperidis (203-F-94) provided 14 points and 11 rebounds, while Eleftherios Bochoridis (196-SG-94) added 12 points for the winners. Rasmus Larsen (212-C-94) answered with 16 points and 13 boards for Denmark. David Knudsen (193-F-94) netted 14 points in the loss.

Greece U18: Dimitrios Agravanis 18, Michalis Kamperidis 14+11 boards, Eleftherios Bochoridis 12
Denmark U18: Rasmus Larsen 16+13 boards, David Knudsen 14


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


Stepco BS Weert brings aboard Antwan Carter - by Fred Roggen

Stepco BS Weert introduced power forward/center Antwan Carter (198-C, agency: Court Side) as its newest signing this weekend after the two sides agreed on a one-year contract. Carter arrives from the Longwood University, where he just finished his four-year college career. He averaged 19.4ppg, 9.1rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 54.8%, 3PT: 30.7%, FT: 72.1% in 31 NCAA games last season, making it to the All-Independent 1st Team.
The former Longwood University standout Antwan Carter (198-C, agency: Court Side), earned CollegeInsider.com, College Sports Madness, CollegeHoops.net and Roundball Daily.coms Independent Player of the Year awards in 2011 en 2012.
We are very excited to have Antwan as a player on our team, said head coach Jim Meil. He had an outstanding college career at Longwood. His ability to score and rebound along with his basketball knowledge gives him a great basis to start his professional playing career.



Robert Krabbendam joins Apollon Limassol - by Fred Roggen

Apollon Limassol (Cyprus) announced this weekend the addition of Dutch center Robert Krabbendam (213-C-86, agency: Court Side, college: Virginia Tech) for the next campaign. It will be the first time Krabbendam has stepped on the court in more than a year as he last played with BC Kalev/Cramo Tallinn (Estonia) during the 2010-11 season, playing Estonian League: 9 games: 6.1ppg, 5.0rpg, FGP: 38.5%, FT: 75.0%; VTB League: 4 games: 6.5ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 66.7%,FT: 50.0%; Baltic League: 6 games: 5.0ppg, 4.5rpg on average.
Krabbendam played college basketball at Virginia Tech from 2004 to 2007 and then moved back to Holland to join MyGuide Amsterdam. After three years there he moved to Estonia to join BC Kalev/Cramo Tallinn, where he stayed until january 2011. He went back to Holland to recover of a knee injury.
"I'm excited about getting back on the basketball court," Krabbendam said. "It has been over a year since I have played and I'm ready to get back to the game that I love."


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


U18 European Championship: Israel rally past Hungary - by Eurobasket News

Israel U18 - Hungary U18 78:58

Israel clinched the second victory in U18 European Championship in Division B. They outgun Hungary for 2-1 record in Group A. Egor Koulechov (194-SF-94) scored 23 points and grabbed 10 rebounds to pace the winners. Hungary suffered the first loss at the tournament to slip at 2-1 record.
Hungary secured a 20:16 lead ten minutes into the game. But Israel rebounded in the second term. They posted a 37:32 halftime advantage. Israel held their opponents to just 8 points in the third quarter to boost the lead. Israel ensured a 16-point advantage at the final intermission. They kept Hungary at bay throughout the fourth stanza and rolled to a comfortable victory at the end. Daniel Sealine (187-SG-94) accouted for 17 points, while Itay Segev (204-SF-95, agency: Avi Zilberman) added 13 points and 14 rebounds for the winners. Zoltan Perl (194-G-95) answered with 18 points and 9 boards for Hungary. Janos Velkey (193-G-95) had 10 points in the loss.

Israel U18: Egor Koulechov 23+10 boards, Daniel Sealine 17, Itay Segev 13+14 boards
Hungary U18: Zoltan Perl 18, Janos Velkey 10


*****************************************************
  ICELAND   


U18 European Championship: Iceland handle Norway - by Eurobasket News

Iceland U18 - Norway U18 81:65

Iceland kept winning at U18 European Championship Division B. They posted the third straight win at the tournament beating Norway. Iceland are on top of the ladder in Group C. Norway suffered the third straight loss and remained winless.
Iceland eked out an 18:16 lead after ten minutes. Norway bounced back in the second term. They surged ahead to take a 33:32 halftime lead. Iceland increased the tempo in the third quarter. They fired 26 points to secure a 5-point lead heading into the fourth stanza. Iceland took over completely in the final period. They outgunned Norway 23:12 in the final ten minutes and sealed the victory at the end. Martin Hermannsson (190-SG-94) provided 20 points to lead the charge. Elvar Fridriksson (180-PG-94) added 18 points, while Valur Valsson (182-PG-94) contributed 14 points for the winners. Nikola Blatancic (194-F-94) answered with 25 points for Norway. Nicholas Seach (181-PG-94) and Marko Lepovic (193-F-94) had 7 points apiece in the loss.

Iceland U18: Martin Hermannsson 20, Elvar Fridriksson 18, Valur Valsson 14
Norway U18: Nikola Blatancic 25, Nicholas Seach 7, Marko Lepovic 7


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


Curtis Kelly and Demontez Stitt stay in Hapoel Tel-Aviv - by Eurobasket News

Hapoel Tel-Aviv kept some of their key players for the next season. Curtis Kelly (205-PF-88, college: Kansas St.) and Demontez Stitt (186-PG-89, college: Clemson) will play for the team for at least another season.
Curtis Kelly started his pro career last season. He guided Hapoel to the Israeli National League title. Curtis Kelly notched 15.9 points, 8.3 rebounds, 2.2 blocks and 1.5 assists per game in National League. The forward also tallied 16.3 points, 6.8 rebounds, 1.3 assists, 1.3 steals and 1.4 blocks per appearance in Balkan League. Eurobasket.com named Curtis Kelly into All-Israeli National League 1st Team.
Demontez Stitt will also enter his second season as pro player. The guard averaged 14.5 points, 4.5 boards, 2.4 assists and 1.6 steals per game in Balkan League. In National League Demontes Stitt delivered 13.6 points, 6.4 boards, 2.7 assists and 1.3 steals per appearance. Eurobasket.com named Demontez Stitt into All-Israeli National League 2nd Team.


Drucker, Jerusalem Add NBAer Craig Smith - by David Pick

Hapoel Jerusalem announced the signing of the 6-foot-7 American power-forward and 36th overall pick in the 2006 NBA Draft in Craig Smith.

Smith, who most recently played for Portland Trail Blazers averaging 3.3 points and 2.3 boards per game in 47 appearances, will make his European rookie debut on Sharon Drucker's Holy Land squad.

Smith is known to be a powerful force inside the paint and is very aggressive around the basket.

The California native also known as "Rhino" recorded 7.4 points and 5.1 rebounds in his rookie year (200607) with the Minnesota Timberwolves. He earned a starting role for the last five games of the season and averaged 12.0 points and 10.2 rebounds in 34.4 minutes of action.

Smith's NBA career high came on December 11, 2007, when he scored 36 points in a 88102 loss to the Washington Wizards, logging 38 minutes and making 14 of his 22 field goal
attempts

In addition to Smith, Drucker's off-season pickups include Israeli veteran Meir Tapiro (Agency: Avi Zilberman), and Americans Josh Duncan and Courtney Fells.




U18 European Championship: Israel rally past Hungary - by Eurobasket News

Israel U18 - Hungary U18 78:58

Israel clinched the second victory in U18 European Championship in Division B. They outgun Hungary for 2-1 record in Group A. Egor Koulechov (194-SF-94) scored 23 points and grabbed 10 rebounds to pace the winners. Hungary suffered the first loss at the tournament to slip at 2-1 record.
Hungary secured a 20:16 lead ten minutes into the game. But Israel rebounded in the second term. They posted a 37:32 halftime advantage. Israel held their opponents to just 8 points in the third quarter to boost the lead. Israel ensured a 16-point advantage at the final intermission. They kept Hungary at bay throughout the fourth stanza and rolled to a comfortable victory at the end. Daniel Sealine (187-SG-94) accouted for 17 points, while Itay Segev (204-SF-95, agency: Avi Zilberman) added 13 points and 14 rebounds for the winners. Zoltan Perl (194-G-95) answered with 18 points and 9 boards for Hungary. Janos Velkey (193-G-95) had 10 points in the loss.

Israel U18: Egor Koulechov 23+10 boards, Daniel Sealine 17, Itay Segev 13+14 boards
Hungary U18: Zoltan Perl 18, Janos Velkey 10


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


Mens Sana Siena agrees with C Mario Kasun - by Eurobasket News

Mario Kasun (213-C-80) will continue his career in Italy. The Croatian bug guy agreed a deal with Mens Sana Siena, according to Sportando.net. Kasun spent last two seasons with Zagreb Croatia Osiguranje. They won Croatian league title and Cup a year ago. Last season Kasun shined with 17.9 ppg and 8.3 rpg for 20 games in Adriatic league. He was the second scorer and fourth rebounder of the competition. The player was named to Eurobasket.com All-Adriatic League 2nd Team. Before Zagreb, Mario Kasun played two years for Efes Pilsen. From 2006 to 2008, he was a member of Barcelona and before that Kasun played for the NBA team Orlando Magic. He had 2.9 ppg and 2.1 rpg for 28 NBA games in 2005/06 season. In the past, Mario Kasun played for Frankfurt Skyliners.


Trieste to sign Brandon Brown - by Eurobasket News

Trieste will get another reinforcement soon. The Italian squad is set to sign Brandon Brown (202-C/F-81, college: Tulane) to a 1-year deal, according to Sportando.net. The player spent last season with Teramo. He played 32 games in SerieA averaging 10.1 points and 5.8 rebounds. Before Teramo, Brown played one year for the Croatian team Zadar. There he shined with 15.7 ppg and 7.4 rpg for 16 games in Croatian league. He was named to Eurobasket.com All-Croatian A1 League 2nd Team -11 and Eurobasket.com Croatian A1 League All-Imports Team -11. The player also added 11.1 ppg and 6.2 rpg for 11 games in EuroChallenge and he had very close numbers in 26 Adriatic league appearances. In the past, Brandon Brow played for Vanoli Cremona and Avelino. He played for Teramo from February of 2007 until the end of 2008/09 season and returned to the team last summer.


Pesaro signs C Andrea Crosariol - by Eurobasket News

Andrea Crosariol (211-C-84, college: Fair Dickinson) is a new member of Pesaro. The Italian big guy signed a 1-year deal with his new club. Crosariol spent last three seasons Virtus Roma. In the latest one he averaged 5.5 points and 4.1 rebounds for 21 SerieA games. In 2010/11, the player had 6.2 ppg and 5 rpg for 16 Euroleague appearances. In SerieA, he had slightly lower numbers. Before Roma, Andrea Crosariol spent one season wit Air Avelino. He played for Roma also from February of 2008 until the end of 2008/09 season. Crosariol started it with La Fortezza Bologna, where he played in 2006/07 as well. Andrea Crosariol is a product of Fairleigh Dickinson University. He played for the school from 2003 to 2006.


Tezenis Verona announce Gabriele Ganeto - by Eurobasket News

Tezenis Verona bolstered their backcourt. They announced the deal with Gabriele Ganeto (200-G/F-87). The guard spent the last season with Cimberio Varese. He tallied 3.9 points and 1.9 rebounds per game in SeriaA. Previously Gabriele Ganeto had stints with Armani Jeans, Vigevano, Capo dOrlando, Ticino, Angelico Biella. Gabriele Ganeto played for U16, U18 and U20 Italian National Teams. He debuted for Italian B National Team in 2012.


U18 European Championship: Lithuania enter second stage undefeated - by Eurobasket News

Lithuania U18 - Italy U18 81:71

Lithuania finished the preliminary round of U18 European Championship undefeated. They overcame Italy to clinch the top position in Group B. Justas Tamulis (194-SF-94, agency: Beo Basket) stepped up with 30 points to lead the Baltic team. Italy fell at 2-1 record and occupied the second position in the ladder.
The teams went neck and neck throughout the opening quarter. The hosts eked out a 24:23 lead after ten minutes. Italy changed the complexion of the game in the second quarter. The Azzurri slowed the hosts down holding Lithuania to just 12 points in the frame. Italy pulled ahead for a 41:36 halftime lead. Lithuania however regained control in the third term. They went on a 13:3 rally to take a 54:49 advantage. Denis Krestinin (202-PF-94) capped the frame with a three-pointer to give Lithuania a 62:53 advantage. Lekavicius and Justas Tamulis connected from beyond the arc early in the fourth frame and Lithuania cruised to the victory at the end. Marius Grigonis (198-F-94) notched 17 points, while Denis Krestinin added 16 points for the winners. Matteo Imbro (192-PG-94) responded with 24 points for Italy. Luca Vencato (190-SG-95) and Amedeo Tessitori (204-PF-94) contributed 11 points each in the loss.

Lithuania U18: Justas Tamulis 30, Marius Grigonis 17, Denis Krestinin 16
Italy U18: Matteo Imbro 25, Luca Vencato 11, Amedeo Tessitori 11


Ferentino targets Delroy James - by Eurobasket News

Ferentino eye Delroy James (203-F-87, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices, college: Rhode Island). LegaDue newcomers may soon sign the deal with the forward. Delroy James started his pro career last season. He played in Israel. Delroy James had a stint with Bnei Hasharon. The forward notched 16.1 points, 7.7 rebounds, 1.7 assists and 1.6 steals per appearance. In January Delroy James moved to D-League. He signed with the Tulsa 66ers. His stats read 8.8 points, 4.8 rebounds, 1.3 assists and 1.0 steal per appearance. The forward also played one game in IBL with the Jersey G-Force. Delroy James participated at NBA Pro Summer League in Las Vegas this summer. He notched 2.3 points per game there.


Luca Garri joins Trento - by Eurobasket News

Trento are shaping up their roster. The LegaDue newcomers have secured the services of Luca Garri (207-C/F-82). The centre spent the last season with Cimberio Varese. Luca Garri notched 4.3 points and 3.1 rebounds per game in SeriaA. Previously Luca Garri had stints with Pepsi JuveCaserta, Angelico Biella, La Fortezza Bologna, Lottomatica Roma, Livorno. The centre participated at Italian Beograd 2005 Project All-Star Game. He was the member of U18 and U20 Italian National Team. Luca Garri joined Italian Military National Team in 2002. He also debuted for the Italian National Team the same year. Luca Garri was the member of the Azzurri until 2009. He participated at 2006 World Championship in Japan.


Virtus Roma announce Lorenzo d'Ercole - by Eurobasket News

Virtus Roma announced the deal with Lorenzo D'Ercole (190-PG-88, agency: Two Points).. The point guard spent the last two seasons with Vanoli-Braga Cremona. Last season Lorenzo D'Ercole notched 3.7 points and 1.1 rebounds per game in SeriaA. Previously he had stints with Montepasci Siena, Snaidero Udine, Livorno, Montecatini. He participated at 2011 SeriaA All-Star Game. Eurobasket.com named the guard All-Italian SeriaA Newcomer of the Year in 2009. Lorenzo D'Ercole was the member of U16, U18 and U20 Italian National Teams. The guard debuted for Italian National Team in 2009. He participated at the 2009 Mediterranean Games. Lorenzo D'Ercole is currently the member of Italian B National selection.


Casper Ware officially in Casale - by Eurobasket News

Novipiu Casale strengthened their backcourt. They agreed on terms of contract with Casper Ware (177-PG-90, college: Long Beach St.). Casale officially announced the deal today. The point guard will start his pro career in Italy. He graduated from the Long Beach State University this summer. The guard notched 17.4 points, 3.4 assists, 2.4 rebounds and 1.4 steals per game in his senior season. Casper Ware was named All-Big West Tournament MVP. He participated at Reeses College All-Star Game in 2012. The guard made it into NABC Division I All-District 9 1st Team. Casper Ware participated at AirTran Orlando Summer League. He played for the Detroit Pistons team. His stats read 2.3 points and 1.3 assists per appearance there.


Young's pro career starts at Orlandina Basket - by Eurobasket Center

Orlandina Basket (Lega 2) strengthened their roster with addition of 23-year old American swingman Alex Young (198-G/F-89). He played most recently at Indiana Univ-Purdue Univ-Indianapolis (NCAA) in the U.S. Young just graduated the college and it will be his first season in pro basketball. Last season he averaged 20.4ppg, 5.9rpg, 2.2apg, 1.6spg, 1.0bpg in 32 games. He tried to make it to the NBA this summer. First Young attended Portsmouth Invitational Tournament (Pre-NBA Draft) averaging in 3 games 11.3ppg, 2.7rpg, and 1.7apg. Last month he participated in NBA Pro Summer League in Las Vegas playing for Sacramento Kings. His stats were 7.3ppg, and 3.0rpg in 3 games.
Orlandina also loaned Nicolo Damiani (204-C-90, agency: Interperformances) to Castelletto Ticino in DNA.

By Eurobasket Data Center


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


U18 European Championship: Bulgaria stun hosts, clinch top spot in Group C - by Eurobasket News

Latvia U18 - Bulgaria U18 58:69

Bulgaria finished U18 European Championship preliminary round in a blistering fashion. They knocked down hosting Latvia to claim the top position in Group C. Latvia finished second after the defeat. The victory of Bulgaria also means that France will now play in the relegation round.
Bulgaria surged ahead early in the encounter. The visitors posted an 18:16 lead at the first break. Bulgaria stretched the lead in the second quarter. They extended the margin to 12 points at halftime 41:29. Bulgaria maintained the advantage throughout the third term. They entered the fourth period up by 13 points 54:41. Latvia tipped off the fourth frame with back-to-back triples to get closer. But Bulgaria soon restored an 11-point lead and cruised to the victory at the end. Denislav Vutev (206-C-94) posted 18 points, while Nikolay Stoyanov (195-SF-94) added 13 points for the winners. Ivars Zvigurs (195-G/F-95) answered with 11 points for Latvia. Davis Geks (183-G/F-95) had 10 points in the loss.

Latvia U18: Ivars Zvigurs 11, Davis Geks 10
Bulgaria U18: Denislav Vutev 18, Nikolay Stoyanov 13, Kris Minkov 9, Aleksandar Vezenkov 9+11 boards, Velislav Galabov 9


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


U18 European Championship: Lithuania enter second stage undefeated - by Eurobasket News

Lithuania U18 - Italy U18 81:71

Lithuania finished the preliminary round of U18 European Championship undefeated. They overcame Italy to clinch the top position in Group B. Justas Tamulis (194-SF-94, agency: Beo Basket) stepped up with 30 points to lead the Baltic team. Italy fell at 2-1 record and occupied the second position in the ladder.
The teams went neck and neck throughout the opening quarter. The hosts eked out a 24:23 lead after ten minutes. Italy changed the complexion of the game in the second quarter. The Azzurri slowed the hosts down holding Lithuania to just 12 points in the frame. Italy pulled ahead for a 41:36 halftime lead. Lithuania however regained control in the third term. They went on a 13:3 rally to take a 54:49 advantage. Denis Krestinin (202-PF-94) capped the frame with a three-pointer to give Lithuania a 62:53 advantage. Lekavicius and Justas Tamulis connected from beyond the arc early in the fourth frame and Lithuania cruised to the victory at the end. Marius Grigonis (198-F-94) notched 17 points, while Denis Krestinin added 16 points for the winners. Matteo Imbro (192-PG-94) responded with 24 points for Italy. Luca Vencato (190-SG-95) and Amedeo Tessitori (204-PF-94) contributed 11 points each in the loss.

Lithuania U18: Justas Tamulis 30, Marius Grigonis 17, Denis Krestinin 16
Italy U18: Matteo Imbro 25, Luca Vencato 11, Amedeo Tessitori 11


Zalgiris land Oliver Lafayette - by Eurobasket News

Zalgiris stay active on the market. The latest addition to the roster is Oliver Lafayette (188-G-84, college: Houston). The guard started the previous season in Poland. He played for Asseco Prokom. Oliver Lafayette notched 10.7 points, 2.5 rebounds, 3.3 assists and 1.4 steals per game in Euroleague. In VTB League his stats read 7.0 points, 3.3 assists, 2.8 rebounds and 1.0 steal per appearance. In January Oliver Lafayette moved to Turkey. He penned deal with Anadolu Efes. Oliver Lafayette tallied 7.5 points, 2.5 boards and 2.5 assists per game in TBL. In Euroleague the guard delivered 8.7 points, 3.2 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 1.5 steals for the Istanbul team. Previously Oliver Lafayette had spells in Israel, D-League, Serbia, NBA and Mexico. He made it into All-Mexican LNBP 3rd Team in 2008.


*****************************************************
  LUXEMBOURG   


U18 European Championship: Estonia celebrate second straight win in Sarajevo - by Eurobasket News

Estonia U18 - Luxembourg U18 65:63

Estonia earned the second consecutive win at the start of U18 European Championship in Division B. They held off Luxembourg for 2-0 record on top of Group B. Sander Saare (182-PG-94) came up with 14 points to lead the charge. Luxembourg in the meantime suffered the third loss in a row.
Estonia dominated the opening minutes. They posted a 17:12 lead after ten minutes. Luxembourg reacted with more aggressive defence in the second term. They cut the deficit and eventually pulled ahead for a 24:23 halftime lead. But Estonia turned things their way in the third quarter. The Baltic team shifted the gear scoring 29 points and taking a 10-point lead into the fourth stanza. Alain Gengler (202-C-94) and Bob Melcher (196-G-94) drained 7 free throws in a row midway through the fourth frame to level things up at 54. Wolff put Luxembourg in front 61:58 with just three minutes remaining. However Vene drained a decisive three-pointer and then Nomm added a free throw to seal the victory for Estonia. Martin Jurtom (198-PF-94) provided 11 points, while Georg Tambre (194-PF-94) added 8 poitns and 12 rebounds for the winners. Bob Melcher replied with 19 points for Luxembourg. Alain Gengler netted 15 points in the loss.

Estonia U18: Sander Saare 14, Martin Jurtom 11, Georg Tambre 8+12 boards
Luxembourg U18: Bob Melcher 19, Alain Gengler 15


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


Soles de Mexicali land Nicchaeus Doaks - by Eurobasket News

Soles de Mexicali continued to strengthen their roster. They recently added Nicchaeus Doaks (202-F-87, college: Chattanooga) to the squad. The forward spent the last season in Poland. Nicchaeus Doaks played for Siarka Jezioro Tarnobrzeg. His stats read 12.8 points, 7.3 rebounds and 1.0 block per game in PLK. Previously Nicchaeus Doaks had stints with Salon Vilpas in Finland and Bordeaux in France.


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


U18 European Championship: Montenegro pull out win over Switzerland - by Eurobasket News

Montenegro U18 - Switzerland U18 77:57

Montenegro registered the second win at the U18 European Championship in Division B. They overcame Switzerland in Group C action. Montenegro improved thus at 2-1 record, while Switzerland slipped at 0-3. Milija Mikovic (205-C-94) came up with 29 points to pace the winners.
Montenegro held their counterparts to 8 points in the first quarter to take a 7-point lead. Montenegro consolidated their lead in the second quarter. The Balkan team went on a 27:11 rally to deepen the margin. Montenegro entered the second half up by 23 points. Switzerland cut the margin in the third term. They got within 14 points at the final intermission. But Montenegro reacted with 21:15 run in the fourth term and sealed the victory. Vasilije Vusovic (191-G-94) netted 9 points, while Masan Vrbica (190-G-94) contributed 8 points for the winning side. Daniel Andjelkovic (200-PF-94) answered with 16 points for Switzerland. Leo Schittenhelm (194-SF-94) had 14 points in defeat.

Montenegro U18: Milija Mikovic 29, Vasilije Vusovic 9, Masan Vrbica 8
Switzerland U18: Daniel Andjelkovic 16, Leo Schittenhelm 14


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


Dwight Howard will reportedly miss start of season - by Eurobasket News

Continuing to recover from April back surgery, Dwight Howard (6'11''-C-85) told the media on Friday night that he may not be ready for the Lakers opening night. ESPN's Arash Markazi reports: Howard also was unsure when exactly he would be cleared by doctors to return to the court. Multiple sources told ESPN that Howard is expected to miss the start of the regular season as he continues to recover from back surgery. 'My health is great', Howard said. 'I'm getting a lot better and a lot stronger every day. I'm looking forward to the doctor saying you are free to play. I can't wait for that day. Howard and Kupchak were optimistic that day could be before the season opener but made no promises. We'll see what the doctor says', Howard said. 'If Im ready for opening night Ill be there but Im not going to rush it. A back is very serious, so Im going to take my time and make sure Im 100 percent because I want to give everybody 100 percent. I want to give everybody everything I have.'

Courtesy of www.slamonline.com


Harden: Thunder remain team to beat in Western Conference - by Eurobasket News

The Thunder won the Western Conference in 2012, beating the Lakers along the way in the Semifinals.

But the complexion of the conference has changed following the Lakers' acquisitions of Dwight Howard and Steve Nash.

"That's what the Lakers do," said Kevin Durant (6'9''-SF-88, college: Texas) about the trade. "They have great management and ownership to make those moves come to life."

James Harden (6'5''-SG-89, college: Arizona St.) doesn't believe the Lakers' offseason moves change his opinion that the Thunder remain the team to beat in the Western Conference.

"Of course," said Harden when posed the question.

Courtesy of http://basketball.realgm.com


Kobe Bryant 'excited' for Lakers franchise after L.A. lands Dwight Howard in four-team blockbuster trade - by Eurobasket News

Kobe Bryant (6'6''-SG-78) stuck gold without even having to play for an Olympic medal.

With the United States men's basketball team one win away from a second straight gold medal, Bryant and the Los Angeles Lakers may have added the final piece to a championship roster by acquiring All-Star center Dwight Howard (6'11''-C-85) from the Magic in a four-team trade on Friday. And if that wasn't good enough, the Lakers managed to add Howard without having to give up Pau Gasol, who will lead Spain into the gold-medal game against the U.S. on Sunday.

"I taked to (Howard) this morning," Bryant said after the U.S. defeated Argentina, 109-83, on Friday. "He's happy to be coming. I told him this is the perfect place for him because if you look at history, all the great centers come to L.A."

It is rather interesting that the Lakers always seem to have the ability to find an elite center - whether it's Wilt Chamberlain, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Shaquille O'Neal and now Howard. The rest of the NBA doesn't sound thrilled. Oklahoma City's Kevin Durant, whose team eliminated the Lakers in the second round last may, refused to comment. LeBron James of the defending world champion Miami Heat also declined to comment on the deal that resulted in Andrew Bynum being sent to the Sixers and Olympian Andre Iguodala going to Denver.

"I don't have a thought right now," James said. "My only mind-set is going against Spain."

The trade, of course, was all the players talked about at the hotel and on the bus ride to the arena. Bryant, coming off Wednesdays 20-point second half against Australia, seemed enthused by the transaction as he scored 11 of his 13 points in the first half. Durant led the Americans with 19 points while Carmelo Anthony and James each scored 18.

It has been a rewarding summer for Bryant, who is chasing his sixth championship ring. The Lakers revamped their roster by acquiring Steve Nash in a sign-and-trade with Phoenix, and with the addition of Howard, the NBAs most dominant big man who was left off the Olympic roster following back surgery.

Ill probably play two or three more years and (after that) the team is his, Bryant said. Im excited for the Lakers franchise. Because this is a guy who can carry the franchise well after Im gone. So it should be his. He should be willing to accept the challenge.

Bryant whispered as he spoke to a large group of reporters after the U.S. defeated Argentina for the third time in three weeks. He was trying to play it cool but after expressing disappointment in December when the NBA voided a deal that would have sent Chris Paul to the Lakers, Bryant couldnt contain his excitement.

All of a sudden, that gets pulled out from underneath us, Bryant said of the rejected Paul trade. Then (the Lakers front office) regroups and they come up with something thats even better. Its . . . its unprecedented.

The Howard trade sets up a potential Lakers-Heat NBA Finals, which would be a ratings bonanza while pitting the leagues top two players, James and Bryant, in a playoff series for the first time. According to Bryant, the consensus (among his Olympic teammates) was that there was no way we could get Dwight and still keep Pau. They all know what Pau does for us. I said I think we can make it happen, they said no.

Well, we got Pau for virtually nothing, so history does repeat itself.

Theres a reason why the Lakers wear gold, of course.

Courtesy of www.nydailynews.com


Nets' Williams happy Howard saga's over - by Eurobasket News

Deron Williams (6'3''-PG-84, college: Illinois) had checked out of the Dwight Howard (6'11''-C-85) rumors after Team USAs Las Vegas training camp. Honestly. Too many twists and turns.

So when he woke up Friday and found out Howard was headed to the Lakers, his disappointment was only marginal.

We went down that road, the Nets' franchise player said after Team USA made it to the gold-medal game by trouncing Argentina Friday night.

Mentally I wasnt in the Dwight sweepstakes anymore. It just got kind of old. Im happy for him. I know he wanted to get out of Orlando. He did that and hes going to a great franchise and I wish him the best of luck.

At least Superman isnt in the Eastern Conference any longer.

It was just a very tough situation for everybody to let go," Howard told reporters in Los Angeles. Im finally glad that its over with. Myself and the Magic organization, we can all start over and begin a new career. Today is a fresh new start for all of us.

I guess its good to have the most dominant big man on the other side of the world, or the country, said Williams, who had six points and six assists in his backup role in the United States 109-83 victory over Argentina last night. That definitely helps.

It also helps, said Williams, the Nets wont have to have this Dwightmare hanging over their heads any longer.

I think [thats good], Williams said. [General manager] Billy [King] did everything he could to try get a deal done. They didnt want to deal with us. What can you do?

Williams knows young center Brook Lopez isnt Howards caliber, but he could be good enough to bring Brooklyn a division title if all the new pieces mesh.

I think so, but only time will tell, Williams said. We have a lot of tough opponents in our division. We have the Celtics who have been there and done that. We have the Knicks who are playing better. The Sixers, who have Andrew Bynum, a big post presence there.

Were going to have a tough division and were a new team and we have to figure out how to play together. But I think Brook is a great piece to have. Hes been injured. Hes been on teams that dont get much attention. I know hes looking forward to having a big year.

Kobe Bryant, meanwhile, is looking forward to another championship his sixth and glowed when talking about the addition of Howard.

The [Chris Paul] trade fell though which would have been great deal for us financially and basketball-wise and, all of a sudden, that gets pulled out from underneath us, Bryant said. Then they regroup and they come up with something thats even better. Its unprecedented.

Hes happy to be coming. , Bryant said. I told him this is the perfect place for him. Because if you look at history, all the great centers come to L.A. Its history repeating itself.

Courtesy of www.nypost.com


Celtics rookie Kris Joseph preparing for camp - by Eurobasket News

Celtics rookie Kris Joseph (6'7''-SF-88, college: Syracuse), taken with the 51st overall pick in the 2012 NBA draft, still has his work cut out for him to make the team's final roster following training camp in October, but he said Thursday he won't be intimidated when it's time to prove his worth to a club filled with veterans.

Speaking at the Celtics' annual Summer Soiree at the Boston Children's Museum on Thursday night to help raise money for the Shamrock Foundation, Joseph maintained he'll be more excited than nervous when it's time to share the floor with the likes of Paul Pierce and Rajon Rondo during camp.

"I guess it happens to every rookie, but at the same time, we're teammates now, so I don't think I'll be too intimidated," Joseph said. "If anything, I'm more excited. I'm not intimidated at all. I'm just looking forward to going in there, working hard, and learning things from [Celtics head coach] Doc [Rivers] and the coaching staff and the players."

Joseph stressed the importance of the educational aspect of training camp, as the Syracuse alum will surely be able to pick up a wealth of tips from his more-experienced counterparts.

"Getting to meet the veterans, bond with the guys, learning from everybody, not just Paul Pierce who plays my position, but learning from a guy like [Kevin Garnett] and learning from Rondo," Joseph said when asked what he's looking forward to most about training camp. "They've been around for so long that I can learn from each and every one of those guys and just be like a sponge and take everything that they're telling me, while still using my own skill set. But listening to those guys can only do positive things for me in the future."

If Joseph doesn't make the final roster, he could latch on with the Maine Red Claws, as part of Boston's recently announced single-team affiliation with the D-League club. But if things work out in his favor, he stressed the importance of accepting a bench role and delivering consistent energy.

"Definitely just coming off the bench and being some type of a spark," Joseph said of where he could carve out a niche. "Rebounding the ball, just being a high-motor guy for the team off the bench, whether it be 5 minutes, whether it be 10, just coming off and doing what I do best -- rebounding the ball, try to excel in transition, and things like that."

Joseph made his presence felt during the NBA's summer league last month, averaging 9.4 points and 5.8 rebounds in five games in Orlando, and coming back with averages of 8 points and 2.4 rebounds a week later in Las Vegas. Despite falling in the June draft, Joseph was still pegged as a player with first-round talent, and even though he might have slid more than he would have liked, he stressed that he's not approaching the coming season with a chip on his shoulder.

"I wouldn't call it [a chip], but just the fact that I've heard that [I was good enough to go in the first round], and deep down I knew I was, but I couldn't ask for a better situation to be placed in," Joseph explained. "Like I said, this is a first-class organization, and I get a chance to learn from some future Hall-of-Famers, so there's definitely no shame in that. I'm definitely not disappointed, either."

Joseph said he took some time off after summer league action to rest up and has paid more attention to his diet and his body since. With roughly two months to go until training camp, he said he'll spend his remaining time working on consistency and improving his jump shot.

"I liked the fact that I was coming off some pin-downs in Orlando and Vegas and knocking down that mid-range shot, so I just want to be consistent at that, find a niche, and get great at it," Joseph said. "Because you know, in this league, it's good to be good at everything, but you want to be great at at least one thing, so I need to find that and keep working on it."

Even though Joseph will be trying to prove himself amid the wealth of veteran talent on Boston's roster, he acknowledged the strong bonds he's made with fellow rookies Fab Melo (who he played alongside at Syracuse) and Ohio State forward Jared Sullinger. Summer league helped the trio grow closer, and Joseph joked that they don't discuss Ohio State's knocking Syracuse out of the 2012 NCAA tournament in the Elite Eight.

"Jared and I, we've been real cool," said Joseph. "We both share the same kind of personality, we're pretty silly guys. And I've gotten over the fact that Ohio State beat us in the tournament. So yeah, we're all getting along. The three rookies are getting along really well."

Courtesy of ESPN


Phoenix Suns agree to terms with Jermaine ONeal - by Eurobasket News

In the shadow cast by Superman's arrival in Los Angeles, the timing of Jermaine O'Neal's (6'11''-F/C-78) choice to commit to the Suns on Friday was unfortunate as an unrelated move.

Given the caliber of remaining NBA free-agent centers, O'Neal's commitment to sign a one-year, $1.35 million contract with Phoenix could be fortuitous if -- and it's a huge if -- O'Neal can be healthier than he has been for the later half of his 16-year career.

The Suns had only a backup center role and a one-year, veteran's minimum contract to offer with a franchise that is in transition. The Suns came away with a six-time All-Star who is still only 33 years old because he entered the NBA out of high school.

The caveat is that the years' wear and tear has cost O'Neal, who appeared in only 61 percent of his teams' games over the past eight seasons. O'Neal's past two seasons in Boston were limited to 49 games combined because of knee and wrist surgeries. O'Neal, who is 6 feet 11 and 255 pounds, was averaging 5.0 points and 5.4 rebounds in 22.8 minutes per game before his season-ending left wrist injury last season. O'Neal went to Germany this summer to receive the Orthokine treatment on both of his knees. Kobe Bryant, Alex Rodriguez and Grant Hill also have gone to Germany for Orthokine, which takes a patient's blood and spins it in a centrifuge to make serum that is injected to combat inflammation.

The Suns' hope is that lower minutes and lower expectations will be good for O'Neal, who is accepting his first reserve role since he left Portland in 2000. They saw spring in his step when they watched him work out last month in Las Vegas, where he trains at Impact Basketball with Suns swingman Jared Dudley. Two weeks ago, Dudley tweeted that O'Neal looked five years younger in his play on the court.

O'Neal was the most decorated player remaining in free agency, which had other mid-30s veterans such as Tony Battie,Mikki Moore, Erick Dampier and Jamaal Magloire as well as inexperienced youngsters such as Jerome Jordan and Hassan Whiteside.O'Neal will cost the Suns the same as a Jordan or Whiteside because the league reimburses the Suns for about $500,000 of his salary as part of a league fund encouraging teams to sign older players.

O'Neal was selected to six consecutive All-Star Games form 2001-02 to 2006-07 and has career averages of 13.7 points and 7.4 rebounds with 46.5 percent shooting. He took on a lesser offensive role over the past two years in Boston and gradually had become more of a perimeter shooter over the course of his career but he remained an effective rebounder and defender with the Celtics.

The Suns needed a big body after trading restricted free agent Robin Lopez, who would have backed up Marcin Gortat. The Suns also could be starting the season without Channing Frye, whose rehabilitation from May 2 shoulder surgery might prevent him from being ready to start the season. Frye was cleared to begin shooting about two weeks ago.

Gortat's time could now be pushed by O'Neal, Frye and power forward Luis Scola, the Suns' amnesty waiver claim who could play center like he has in the Olympics for Argentina. Scola has averaged 19.3 points in the Olympics as Argentina's captain.

O'Neal's upcoming signing would give the Suns' guaranteed contracts on 13 players, the NBA roster minimum. They are not expected to add an allowed 14th or 15th player.

Courtesy of www.azcentral.com


Durant on the Dwight Howard trade: 'I really don't care' - by Eurobasket News

The biggest trade of the NBA offseason didn't seem to distract the U.S. men's basketball team at all Friday as it thumped Argentina, 109-83, to reach Sunday's gold-medal game.

But the massive trade certainly gave everyone something to talk about after another in a string of U.S. blowouts entering Sunday's gold-medal game against Spain.

Kobe Bryant said he was "excited" to have Dwight Howard join him with the L.A. Lakers, who may have just surpassed Oklahoma City in terms of sheer talent accumulated in the Western Conference.

"I told him (Howard) Los Angeles is the perfect place for him," Bryant said after the U.S. dismantled Argentina for the second time this week. "Look at history - at all the great centers who have come to L.A. Now he's the next in line. It couldn't have put him in a better position. ... I'm really excited for him and he's very excited too.

"Look," Kobe continued. "I will probably play 2-3 more years, you know what I'm saying? And then the team is his. I'm excited for the Laker franchise because they have a player that can carry the Laker franchise well after I'm gone. He should be willing to accept that challenge."

Howard was supposed to be a member of the 2012 U.S. Olympic team, but he is recovering from back surgery. Andre Iguodala was the only current U.S. Olympian traded in the convoluted four-team deal, and he didn't sound nearly as excited about moving from Philadelphia to Denver. In fact, he would barely answer questions about the subject.

While every Olympian will be in some way affected by the deal, some were more interested about Howard's move to the Lakers than others. "I really don't care," Kevin Durant (6'9''-SF-88, college: Texas) said.

Said Chris Paul, talking about Howard's long-time wish to be traded out of Orlando: "You knew it was going to happen sooner or later. He's definitely athletic. They lost a dominant big man (Andrew Bynum) and got another one."

U.S. Olympic coach Mike Krzyzewski brought the trade up to Iguodala Friday at the team's 1 p.m. (London time) meeting, eight hours before the tip-off against Argentina.

Said Coach K: "I talked to Andre at our meeting and he said, 'I'm fine...' Kobe's going to be fine no matter what, and he should be really fine. Just imagine walking out on the court and there's Pau (Gasol) and Dwight doing layups on the other side. That's not a bad team.... But they all handled it professionally. They're here to represent their country."

Kobe talked with Gasol about the move Thursday night, and then both went out and won their games Friday to set up the gold-medal game.

The U.S. win was relatively easy, as the team led by only seven at halftime but then got hot. At one point, the U.S. was only 7-for-26 from three-point range, but then made 11 of its last 16 to win going away.

That pushed the U.S. into a game with Spain a rematch of the 2008 gold-medal thriller. Spain was thought to be the biggest challenge to the U.S. all along in this tournament with its size and experience.

If Howard had been able to come to London, he could have countered some of that. He is notable here by his absence - but he certainly was present in a lot of people's minds on Friday across the pond.

Courtesy of www.sacbee.com


Lakers Gasol relieved, says trade bittersweet - by Eurobasket News

Pau Gasol (7'0''-F/C-80) opened every assessment of the Dwight Howard (6'11''-C-85) trade Friday by wishing Andrew Bynum (7'0''-C-87, agency: David Lee services) well in Philadelphia.

Its bittersweet because Andrew is a good friend, Gasol said after Spain beat Russia in the Olympic basketball semifinals. A lot of emotions, these days, with the Olympics and now this news.

But now we (the Lakers) can go out there with a strong and powerful team. We will be expected to win the championship. Thats good. it puts us in good position.

For Gasol, the most important name in the trade was the one he did not hear his own.

Thats big news, he said, smiling. It will be nice to go into a year fully focused. Ive been involved in a lot of trade rumors.

Gasol said he heard about the rumors Thursday and that he might be involved a trade.

I talked to Kobe (Bryant) for a while and I felt better after that, he said.

But he didnt know it was official until he was warming up for the game with Russia, and TV sideline reporter Craig Sager asked him to comment.

There I am stretching, trying to get ready for an Olympic semifinal, he said. I finally gave him a little something (comment) so he would go away.

Courtesy of http://lakers.ocregister.com


Lakers will have massive payroll in 2012-13 - by Eurobasket News

The Lakers will again have the NBAs highest payroll in the coming season, paying $27.8 million to Kobe Bryant (6'6''-SG-78), $19.5 million to Dwight Howard (6'11''-C-85) and $19 million to Pau Gasol (7'0''-F/C-80) alone. They will endure the luxury-tax penalties until the summer of 2014, when Bryant and Gasol come off the books and the club plans to get under the luxury-tax plateau just when the NBAs new repeater penalties would kick in.

Howard, 26, is aware of the hopes for championships until then.

'Everybody's going to expect a lot out of us', he said. 'I know for myself, I'm going to give you 100 percent. I'm going to have fun. I'm going to smile. I'm going to dunk.'

Howard, who had missed just seven games in his first seven NBA seasons, professed renewed love for the game after April 20 surgery to repair a herniated disc in his back.

'Iv'e grown a lot in these four months', he said.

Courtesy of the Orange County Register (via www.insidehoops.com)


Collins excited over Sixers trade - by Eurobasket News

The eyes of the basketball world were lured away from the Olympics, following Dwight Howard (6'11''-C-85) all the way to Los Angeles. And that's fine. The Lakers have put together the NBA's newest supergroup, adding Howard and Steve Nash to Kobe Bryant and Pau Gasol.

The rest of the league couldn't do much to stop it. One team, though, found a way to create an opportunity for itself.

"We had it in our sights, that we could get in on Andrew Bynum (7'0''-C-87, agency: David Lee services)," Sixers coach Doug Collins said. "He might be the best low-post center in the NBA. You can throw the ball in to him, he can score, he can defend, he can rebound."

After spending two years putting a puzzle together, Collins has a whole table full of new pieces to work with. Taking a break between broadcasting two Olympic semifinals here for NBC, Collins sounded pretty excited talking about the possibilities.

"Two years ago," he said, "my frontcourt at the end of games was basically E.B. [Elton Brand] and Thad Young. We were undersized. We think we've gotten bigger on the front line. We're more athletic. We're bigger on the perimeter, we've added shooting. All the things we set out to do, we think we've done that. Miami is still obviously the class of the East, but we think we can line up and play with most teams now."

Brand and Andre Iguodala, the veterans and highest-paid players, are gone. Lou Williams decided to sign elsewhere as a free agent. Jodie Meeks signed with the Lakers Friday.

The Sixers have added Bynum, Jason Richardson, Nick Young, Kwame Brown, Dorell Wright, and Arnett Moultrie. That's half a roster's worth of players, most of whom figure to be in Collins' rotation (pending future moves, of course).

Richardson, Young, and Wright are all better outside shooters than anyone the Sixers had last year. Bynum is their first real center in years, maybe decades.

"This is a franchise-changing day," co-owner Adam Aron said, "being able to pull down Andrew Bynum and Jason Richardson."

Aron said the deal was put together "over the last couple of days," while he and the rest of the principal owners were in London for the Games.

"It went from an idea to a transaction very fast," Aron said. "The long-distance bills were significant."

Courtesy of http://articles.philly.com


Jodie Meeks accepts two-year deal with Lakers - by Eurobasket News

Reserve shooting guard Jodie Meeks (6'4''-G-87, college: Kentucky) has accepted a two-year deal worth about $3 million to play for the Lakers, The Times has learned.

The move hardly warrants the same headlines as the Lakers other blockbuster offseason moves in acquiring Steve Nash and Dwight Howard, but Meeks arrival gives the Lakers a solid option in relieving Kobe Bryants minutes and bolstering the teams outside shooting.

The 6-foot-4 Meeks, who played for the Philadelphia 76ers in three of his four NBA seasons, averaged a career-high 37% from three-point range in the last two years.

He averaged 8.4 points and 2.4 rebounds in 25 minutes a game last season, when he played in all 66 games, starting 50.

Meeks second year is a team option. The Lakers will have 13 players under contract.

Courtesy of www.latimes.com


Derrick Rose's shot might be much improved when he returns - by Eurobasket News

Derrick Rose (6'3''-G-88, college: Memphis) won't be the same player when he returns to the Bulls at some point next season - not right away, at least.

Everyone agrees it will take time for Rose to trust his surgically repaired left knee and regain the speed and explosiveness that separates him from virtually every other player in the NBA.

In at least one way, though, he might be better than ever.

The Bulls are keeping such a tight lid on Roses recovery that they wont even address whether his knee has recovered enough to allow him to begin shooting. Because trainer Fred Tedeschi said Rose would begin spot-shooting 12 weeks after the surgery he had May 12, though, its fair to assume he has been shooting while working out in Southern California. That begs this question:

Given how hard Rose works and how much time he spends in the gym, how much better a shooter can he become if thats all he is allowed to do for the majority of the offseason?

He can only do three things, said former NBA point guard Tim Hardaway, who missed the 1993-94 season after suffering a similar injury. He can dribble not run and dribble, just dribble walking up and down the court; he can shoot a bunch of free throws; and he can shoot a bunch of set shots like hes playing
H-O-R-S-E every day, all day.

But thats going to make him better. If you shoot 1,000 jump shots a day, 1,000 free throws a day, youre going to get better. That made my shot better. It
really made my jump shot and free-throw percentage better.

Hardaways shooting percentage decreased after his missed season, which might be because
he penetrated less while shooting more jumpers. But his three-point shooting percentage
improved from .330 to .378 and didnt dip below .347 for the next decade.

Roses three-point shooting percentage increased from .222 to .267 to .332 in his first three seasons before dropping to .312 last season. Teammate Rip
Hamilton said he expects Rose to post a career high in the near future after spending so much time this offseason working on his shot.

Hes definitely become a
better shooter since he came into the league, Hamilton said this offseason. When he came into the league, guys would back off him because of his quickness. At Detroit, thats what we did when we played against him. But this year and last year, when he added his jump shot to his game, its
impossible to stop him and contain him.

Hes going to get better, man. Hes going to come back better and faster.

Rose was an unreliable shooter during his rookie season, but he has developed into one of the best mid-range scorers in the game. He extended his range
beyond the three-point arc during
his MVP season. Lost amid his injury-riddled 2011-12 season was the fact he had extended that range even more last offseason.

Hes got a work ethic, said Hardaway, who played at Carver and whose niece Mieka Reese is Roses longtime girlfriend. He loves the game of basketball. Hes a gym rat.

The reason why his jump shot got better, if you saw him [play for Team USA at the 2010 world championships], in the game before the gold-medal game, he couldnt make a jump shot, and they put somebody else in the game. When he came back home, he was on a mission to show people he could make a jump shot. Thats when he started making jump shots. Hes got a great work ethic. I love his spirit.

After spot-shooting, Tedeschi said Rose eventually will move to cutting activities before graduating to light contact, but thats a ways off. Right now, about all he can do is shoot, which is reason enough to believe that part of his game will be much improved when hes healthy enough to
return.

Hes young, man, Hamilton said. He has that drive at a young age. Hes not a kid thats coming into the NBA and is happy to be here and is going to relax for a couple of years before they decide they want to make an All-Star team.

He came in with everything. He wants to be better. He wants to be the best point guard in the league. He wants to win a world championship. When youve got somebody doing all that at that age, it can be amazing.

Courtesy of www.suntimes.com


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


U18 European Championship: Iceland handle Norway - by Eurobasket News

Iceland U18 - Norway U18 81:65

Iceland kept winning at U18 European Championship Division B. They posted the third straight win at the tournament beating Norway. Iceland are on top of the ladder in Group C. Norway suffered the third straight loss and remained winless.
Iceland eked out an 18:16 lead after ten minutes. Norway bounced back in the second term. They surged ahead to take a 33:32 halftime lead. Iceland increased the tempo in the third quarter. They fired 26 points to secure a 5-point lead heading into the fourth stanza. Iceland took over completely in the final period. They outgunned Norway 23:12 in the final ten minutes and sealed the victory at the end. Martin Hermannsson (190-SG-94) provided 20 points to lead the charge. Elvar Fridriksson (180-PG-94) added 18 points, while Valur Valsson (182-PG-94) contributed 14 points for the winners. Nikola Blatancic (194-F-94) answered with 25 points for Norway. Nicholas Seach (181-PG-94) and Marko Lepovic (193-F-94) had 7 points apiece in the loss.

Iceland U18: Martin Hermannsson 20, Elvar Fridriksson 18, Valur Valsson 14
Norway U18: Nikola Blatancic 25, Nicholas Seach 7, Marko Lepovic 7


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


Premier Basketball League Owners Meeting Continuing Forward 2012-2013 - by Allen White

(Chicago, IL 8/1/12) The Premier Basketball League held its annual owners meeting at Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse in downtown Chicago with the theme of continuing forward with momentum, as the league approaches the 2012-2013 upcoming season.

This is the year where owners take on a major role, both financial and operational in the Premier Basketball League, stated Tom McGinn, Vice President of Operations. Dr. Hrywnak, the leagues owner has kept his word with the PBL having paid 100% of operational league costs for the first five years, which included team travel for the first two years, uniforms, officials and team venue payments. The new structure going forward includes league dues which will be required from all teams, continued McGinn.

Additional changes and improvements include a performance guarantee deposit of $20,000 per team that is 100% refundable at the conclusion of the season.

To truly be classified as a professional league we have now required owners to step up, commented Brijesh Desai, PBLs Chief Financial Officer. PBL Team Owners voted to establish an executive committee made up of five team owners. Additionally it was voted to keep the current regular season schedule at twenty games plus the leagues playoffs. In this economy you have to be careful not to place unnecessary financial stress on the fans by having too many games or by playing during the week when kids have school the next day, explained John Hollinsworth, PBLs Director of Sales & Marketing.

The executive committee reported over forty applications from difference cities and markets with only six qualifying to have more due diligence done. We always get applications from American Basketball Association (ABA) teams but very few qualify financially, continued PBL CFO Brijesh Desai. Hopefully the better applicants will prove to be real during their due diligence process.

The PBL will begin its sixth season tipping off on December 31, 2012 and the PBL Championship series will conclude around the middle of April 2013. Our fans will still be able to view PBL games on @SportsTV via the internet or their local cable provider, concluded PBL VP Operations Tom McGinn.


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


Poland fired past Turkey at Beko-SuperCup opener - by Eurobasket News

Poland - Turkey 95:69

Poland celebrated the first win at the Beko-SuperCup international tournament. They overcame Turkey in Bamberg in opener. Marcin Gortat (213-C-84) scored 23 points to lead the winners.
Poland led from the start. They ensured a 26:18 lead after ten minutes. Poland exploded with 31 points in the second term to extend the lead. They established a 17-point halftime lead. Turkey finally adjusted their defence in the second half. They held Poland to 13 points in the third stanza to cut the deficit to 16 points. But Poland reacted with 25 points in the final frame and sealed the victory at the end. Dardan Berisha (192-G-88, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) and Michal Ignerski (207-F-80, agency: Stanley International, college: Mississippi St.) notched 14 points each for Poland. Adam Waczynski (199-F-89, agency: Limelight Hoops) netted 12 points for the winners. Semih Erden (213-C-86) answered with 13 points for Turkey. Birkan Batuk (197-SF-90) had 10 points in the loss.

Poland: Marcin Gortat 23, Dardan Berisha 14, Michal Ignerski 14, Adam Waczynski 12
Turkey: Semih Erden 13, Birkan Batuk 10


U18 European Championship: Slovenia beat Poland to reach next stage - by Eurobasket News

Slovenia U18 - Poland U18 69:63

Slovenia registered the first win at the U18 European Championship. They overcame Poland in the crucial game for both teams at the preliminary round. The victory allowed Slovenia to stay in the title race. Poland slipped at 0-3 record and fell into the relegation round. Tomaz Bolcina (206-F/C-94) posted 22 points and grabbed 8 rebounds for the winners.
Poland jumped to an early lead. They established a 23:12 lead at the first break. But Slovenia silenced their opponents in the second quarter. They ignited a 28:8 run to secure a 9-point halftime lead. Poland cut the deficit in the third stanza. They got within 6 points at the final intermission 48:51. Sovenia and Poland exchanged baskets throughout the final term. Poland cut the distance to 3 points with one minute remaining. But Matic Rebec (180-PG-95) and Nikolic hit five free throws in the dying stages to seal the victory at the end. Matic Rebec notched 21 points and 8 assists, while Gregor Hrovat (196-G-94) added 10 points for the winning side. Kacper Radwanski (189-G/F-94) responded with 17 points for Poland. Mikolaj Witlinski (207-F/C-95) and Kacper Borowski (203-F/C-94) had 12 points apiece in the loss.

Slovenia U18: Tomaz Bolcina 22, Matic Rebec 21, Gregor Hrovat 10
Poland U18: Kacper Radwanski 17, Mikolaj Witlinski 12, Kacper Borowski 12


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


U18 European Championship: Belgium record win over Portugal - by Eurobasket News

Belgium U18 - Portugal U18 71:45

Belgium opened win count at U18 European Championship in Division B. They held off Portugal to improve at 1-1 record in Group D. Portugal in the meantime slipped at 1-2 record.
Belgium cleared off in the opening quarter. They held Portugal to only 6 points in the opening quarter to take a 14-point lead. Belgium maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. They established a 35:18 halftime lead. Belgium exploded with 27 points in the third quarter. They piled up a 29-point advantage with one quarter remaining. Portugal could not recover and had to surrender at the end. Louis Hazard (199-F-94) scored 12 points for Belgium. Naim El Khounchar (193-G-94) and Emmanuel Lecomte (180-G-95) netted 10 points apiece for the winning side. Pedro Marques (173-PG-95) answered with 16 points for Portugal. Isaias Insaly (197-F/C-95) netted 7 points in the loss.

Belgium U18: Louis Hazard 12, Naim El Khounchar 10, Emmanuel Lecomte 10
Portugal U18: Pedro Marques 16, Isaias Insaly 7


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


U18 European Championship: Luke Nelson leads England past Romania - by Eurobasket News

England U18 - Romania U18 60:55

England clinched the third straight win at the U18 European Championship in Division B. They knocked down Romania to stay perfect in Group A. Luke Nelson (189-PG-95) knocked down 19 points to lead the winners. Romania fell at 1-2 record after the loss.
England started the game confidently. They limited Romania to 10 points in the opening quarter earning a 6-point lead. England stretched the lead in the second term. They ensured a 41:24 halftime advantage. Romania slowed their opponents down in the third term. They narrowed the margin to 11 points heading into the fourth stanza. Romania got within a single point midway through the final term. But Luke Nelson four points and Dwayne Orija (193-SG-95) added two more in the final three minutes to seal the victory for England. Kingsley Okoroh (213-C-95) had 11 points and 11 rebounds for England. Vlad Popovici (200-PF-94) answered with 20 points and 11 rebounds for Romania. Vlad Cobzaru (201-C-95) netted 10 points in the loss.

England U18: Luke Nelson 19, Kingsley Okoroh 11+11 boards, Dwayne Orija 7
Romania U18: Vlad Popovici 20+11 boards, Vlad Cobzaru 10


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  RUSSIA   


U18 European Championship: Dario Saric leads Croatia to the third straight win - by Eurobasket News

Croatia U18 - Russia U18 74:63

Croatia stayed on the winning track at U18 European Championship. They thumped Russia to improve at 3-0 record on top of Group D. Dario Saric (208-F-94) put on another amazing performance finishing with 32 points, 13 boards and 2 assists before fouling out. Russia fell at 2-1 record after the loss.
Russia ensured the better start. They posted a 21:19 lead ten minutes into the game. Croatia adjusted defensively in the second quarter. They tipped off the period with 12 points in a row. Croatia gained the tempo and ensured a 37:33 halftime lead. The margin grew at 16-point mark midway through the third term. Russia cut the deficit to 10 points at the final break 47:57. Russia narrowed the margin to 4 points midway through the fourth term. But Croatia sparked with a 7:0 run and cleared off for good. Mislav Brzoja (196-F/G-94) notched 16 points for the winners. Mikhail Kulagin (188-G-94) answered with 14 points for Russia. Serdar Annaev (185-PG-94) had 11 points and 6 assists in the loss.

Croatia U18: Dario Saric 32+13 boards, Mislav Brzoja 16, Dominik Mavra 8
Russia U18: Mikhail Kulagin 14, Serdar Annaev 11


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


U18 European Championship: Belarus thump Scotland - by Eurobasket News

Belarus U18 - Scotland U18 78:52

Belarus clinched the first win at the U18 European Championship in Division B. They drubbed Scotland in Group A action tonight. Viktar Ilyukevich (203-PF-94) and Yahor Patupchyk (191-SG-94) knocked down 13 points each to lead the winners.
Belarus left Scotland far behind in the first quarter. They established a 22:9 lead at the first intermission. Belarus dominated in the second quarter. They recorded a 38:22 halftime lead. Belarus stayed in charge throughout the second half. They piled up a 25-point buffer before the fourth frame and never looked back en route to the victory. Pavel Bliznets (205-C-94) contributed 12 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. Matthew Wilcox (196-PF-94) answered with 17 points for Scotland. Joshua McGilvray (201-C-95) netted 10 points in the loss.

Belarus U18: Viktar Ilyukevich 13, Yahor Patupchyk 13, Pavel Bliznets 12+11 boards
Scotland U18: Matthew Wilcox 17, Joshua McGilvray 10


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


Marietta Outlaws defeat Black Monopoly in Metro A-League Semi Game - by Marcus Tate

Marietta Outlaws faced Black Monopoly in the North-South Final Four game tonight at JH Morgan Gym in Cartersville, Ga. Outlaws represented the North Division #1 seed and Black Monopoly were the South Division #2 seed. Trey Moore (6'4''-G-75, college: Mississippi St.) led Outlaws to a victory scoring 41 points with 5 assist. Tony Mitchell was the high scorer for Black Monopoly scoring 34 points. Final score was 119-116.

In other SEBL news..
SEBL Souths Tri-County defeat Fastbreak to advance to the Metro A-League Championship game vs. Outlaws. This game will be played Sunday August 12th at 6:30pm.


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  SERBIA   


U18 European Championship: Spain stifle Serbia to stay unbeaten - by Eurobasket News

Spain U18 - Serbia U18 83:68

Spain stayed undefeated at the end of preliminary round of U18 European Championship. The defending champions defeated Serbia to clinch the top position in Group A with 3-0 record. Serbia suffered the first loss to slip at 2-1 record. Josep Perez (184-PG-94) stepped up with 18 points, 6 boards and 6 assists for the winners.
Spain surged ahead in the first term. The reigning champions dominated to post a 23:14 lead after ten minutes. But Serbia found the weapons to strike back. The Balkan team denied the deficit and snatched a 37:35 halftime lead. But Spain answered with a massive rally in the third term. They erupted for 31 points in the quarter building a 19-point lead at the final break. Serbia cut the distance to 12 points but could not get any closer surrendering at the end. Guillermo Hernangomez (209-C-94) scored 13 points, while Alberto Diaz (190-PG-94) and Ilimane Diop (209-C-95) added 12 points each for Spain. Nikola Radicevic (194-G-94) answered with 15 points for Serbia. Luka Andusic (191-G-94) netted 13 points in the loss.

Spain U18: Josep Perez 18, Guillermo Hernangomez 13, Alberto Diaz 12, Ilimane Diop 12
Serbia U18: Nikola Radicevic 15, Luka Andusic 13


Stockholm Eagles get bigger with Dragoljub Kitanovic - by Eurobasket News

Stockholm Eagles reinforced their roster under the basket. The Basketligan newcomer signed a deal with Serbian center Dragoljub Kitanovic (203-C-85). He spent last season with BKK Radnicki Belgrade. He appeared 39 times in Serbian league averaging 9.6 points and 3.2 rebounds. Kitanovic helped BKK Radnicki to reach the Superleague. Dragoljub Kitanovic played on Iceland in 2010/11 season. There he had 14.6 ppg, 5.6 rpg and 2.5 spg for 22 games. In the past, he spent several years with Vojvodina. His new team Stockholm Eagles were Basketettan champions last season. They ended it with perfect record.


Radnicki Kragujevac agrees with Matthew Bryan-Amaning - by Eurobasket News

Radnicki Kragujevac is very active on the transfer market this summer. Today the Serbian squad agreed terms with Matthew Bryan-Amaning (205-F-88, agency: Interperformances, college: Washington), according to journalist Djordje Matic. The British forward spent last season in Turkey. He appeared 30 times with Hacettepe University averaging 12.4 points, 4.9 rebounds, 2 steals and 1.3 blocks. He was the best shot blocker of TBL and No.1 in steals. It was the first pro deal for Bryan-Amaning, who graduated at University of Washington something more than a year ago. The player had 15.3 ppg and 8 rpg for his school in 35 games as a senior. Matthew Bryan-Amaning played for the New Orleans Hornets in 2012 NBA Las Vegas Summer League. He had 2.2 ppg and 2.2 rpg for 5 games. Bryan-Amaning played for the British National Team in 2011 EuroBasket qualifications.


Dragan Petronic and Bojan Lazic sign in France - by Eurobasket News

Dragan Petronic (206-F/C-82) and Bojan Lazic (190-G-85) will continue their careers in France. Both of them signed a deal with NM2 team ASM Basket Le Puy-en-Velay.
Dragan Petronic heads to Le Puy from Radnicki Belgrade, He played 26 games in Serbian league last season averaging 8.2 points and 4 rebounds. Petronic played for Radnicki also in 2010/11. He helped them win B League title and promotion to A League. Before Radnicki, Petronic was a member of Leotar Trebinje. In the past he played for Kolubara Lazarevac.
Bojan Lazic most recently played for the FYR Macedonian team Ultimate Basket Prilep. It was in 2010/11 season. Lazic had 8.5 ppg, 3.3 apg and 2.9 rpg for 12 games, after what they parted ways in December of 2010. In the past, Lazic played Targoviste Bucuresti, Ergonom, Radnik Bjeljina, Swisslions and Hemofarm.


Stockholm Eagles lands Nenad Stefanovic and Dragoljub Kitanovic - by Zoran Popovic

Management of Stockholm Eagles decides to lands two Serbian players, guard Nenad Stefanovic (193-G-85, agency: Beo Basket) and center Dragoljub Kitanovic (203-C-85). They will join to coach Milan Rondovic competing in Swedish league for the next season.

Nenad Stefanovic last season played for Vizura Smederevo and on 25 games in Serbian Championship average scored 8,1 points, 2,2 boards, 4,1 assists, 1,1 steals per game. During the career Stefanoic played for OKK Beograd, Sloga Kraljevo, Partizan Beograd, FMP Zeleznik, Borac Cacak, Metalac Valjevo, Radnicki Kraguevac and Tamis Petrohemija.

Dragoljub Kitanovic played last season in BKK Radnicki and on 39 games in Serbian Championship average scored 9,6 points, 3,2 boards and 1,6 steals per game, During the career Kitanovic played for KK Vojvodina NIS Novi Sad, KK Novi Sad and U.M.F. Tindastoll


Aleksandar Rasic in Italy - by Zoran Popovic

Serbian guard Aleksandar Rasic (194-G-84, agency: Beo Basket) is new player of Mens Suna Siena. During the last season in Lietuvos Rytas on 16 games in Eurocup Rasic average scored 7,1 points, 1,6 boards, 2,6 assists, on 20 games in VTB league average scored 5,1 points, 1,7 boards, 2,5 assists, on 21 games in Lithuanian league average scored 6,9 points, 2.0 boards and 2,7 assists per game. Before Mens Sana Siena and Lietuvos Rytas Rasic played for FMP Zeleznik, KK Borac Cacak, Efes Pilsen, Dynamo Moscow, Partizan Beograd and Trabzonspor Basketball. Aleksandar Rasic is member of Serbian National team.


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  SLOVAKIA   


U18 European Championship: Austria hold off Slovakia - by Eurobasket News

Austria U18 - Slovakia U18 56:52

Austria celebrated the second victory at U18 European Championship in Division B. They knocked down Slovakia to improve at 2-1 record, while the Slovaks slipped at 0-2.
Slovakia jumped to an early lead. They posted a 13:12 advantage at the first intermission. Slovakia boosted the lead in the second quarter. They cleared off to a 7-point lead at halftime 28:21. But Austria managed to turn the tables in the second half. Austria cut the distance to a single point at the final break. Mueller and Benedikt Guettl (188-G-94) put Austria in front midway through the final stanza 46:45. Slovakia regained the lead but Valentin Bauer (181-PG-94) and Jakob Poeltl (208-PF-95) put Austria in charge late in regulation and sealed the victory at the end. Jakob Poeltl came up with 16 points and 14 rebounds for Austria. Valentin Bauer added 14 points for the winners. Robert Rozim (199-F-94) answered with 16 points for Slovakia. Martin Matejcik (185-G-94) had 9 points in the loss.

Austria U18: Jakob Poeltl 16+14 boards, Valentin Bauer 14, Benedikt Guettl 8
Slovakia U18: Robert Rozim 16, Martin Matejcik 9


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  SLOVENIA   


Gaspet Vidmar officially signs with Besiktas Istanbul - by Rado Markovic Hribernik

Slovenian national team member Gasper Vidmar (211-C/F-87) stays in Turkey, where had played in previous seasons for Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul. As was reported earlier in the previous days, he is moving to arch rivals of Besiktas Istanbul, for which he will in the coming season play also in the Turkish Airlines Euroleague. The two sides agreed on a two year contract, as he is loaned by Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul and it has become official on Saturday.

Last season Vidmar averaged 4.1 points and 2.6 rebounds per game in Euroleague for Fenerbahce. He also notched 3.7 points and 2.4 rebounds per game in TBL. Previously Gasper Vidmar had stints with Union Olimpija Ljubljana, Geoplin Slovan Ljubljana and Jance STZ Ljubljana.



Marko Pajic joins Krka Novo mesto - by Rado Markovic Hribernik

Slovenian national team member Marko Pajic (204-F/C-92), who played also for Slovenian U20 national team during this summer, signed today a 4-year deal with Slovenian champions Krka Novo Mesto. Slovenian representative at the Turkish Airlines Euroleague Union Olimpija Ljubljana was also interested into signing him, but finally, Krka was prepared to pay the transfer fee to his former club Geoplin Slovan Ljubljana, and Olimpija wasn't.

Marko Pajic (204-F/C-92) played last season for Geoplin Slovean in Slovenian Telemach league and averaged 9.6 points, 6.3 rebounds and 0.8 assists per game.



U18 European Championship: Slovenia beat Poland to reach next stage - by Eurobasket News

Slovenia U18 - Poland U18 69:63

Slovenia registered the first win at the U18 European Championship. They overcame Poland in the crucial game for both teams at the preliminary round. The victory allowed Slovenia to stay in the title race. Poland slipped at 0-3 record and fell into the relegation round. Tomaz Bolcina (206-F/C-94) posted 22 points and grabbed 8 rebounds for the winners.
Poland jumped to an early lead. They established a 23:12 lead at the first break. But Slovenia silenced their opponents in the second quarter. They ignited a 28:8 run to secure a 9-point halftime lead. Poland cut the deficit in the third stanza. They got within 6 points at the final intermission 48:51. Sovenia and Poland exchanged baskets throughout the final term. Poland cut the distance to 3 points with one minute remaining. But Matic Rebec (180-PG-95) and Nikolic hit five free throws in the dying stages to seal the victory at the end. Matic Rebec notched 21 points and 8 assists, while Gregor Hrovat (196-G-94) added 10 points for the winning side. Kacper Radwanski (189-G/F-94) responded with 17 points for Poland. Mikolaj Witlinski (207-F/C-95) and Kacper Borowski (203-F/C-94) had 12 points apiece in the loss.

Slovenia U18: Tomaz Bolcina 22, Matic Rebec 21, Gregor Hrovat 10
Poland U18: Kacper Radwanski 17, Mikolaj Witlinski 12, Kacper Borowski 12


Krka inks Pajic, Elektra tabs Atanackovic, Rogaska lands two import players, Slovan adds Dimec and Affia - by Zeljko Zule

Krka made official the addition of U-20 national team member Marko Pajic (204-F/C-92) for the next four seasons. He arrives from Slovan and last season he averaged 14.0 points, 7.4 rebounds and 1.3 assists in 23 Teleamch League games.
Elektra improved its backcourt for the upcoming season by inking Simo Atanackovic (206-F-90) to a one-year deal. Atanackovic arrives from Zlatorog,for whom he averaged 3.5 points and 2.4 rebounds in 25 Adriatic League games and 3.5 points and 2.4 rebounds in 30 Telemach League games last season.
Rogaska continued its roster building process by adding import players Milivoje Mijovic (200-F-91) and Nemanja Barac for the upcoming season. Mijovic arrives from BKK Radnicki, where he averaged 3.8 points and 2.4 points in 38 Serbian League games. Barac arrives from Napredak Aleksinac, for whom he averaged 13.1 points, 3.0 rebounds and 1.8 assists in 22 Serbian B League games last season.
Slovan made two roster addition for the upcoming 2011-12 season, signing Luka Dimec (207-F/C-90) for one year and Francois Affia (211-C) to to a three-year deal. Dimec arrives from Zlatorog, where he averaged 1.8 points and 1.6 rebounds in just 5 Adriatic League games and 2.5 points and1.5 rebounds in 14 Telemach League games last season. Affia played in 6 games for LTHcast Skofja Loka last season.


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  SPAIN   


Gran Canaria targets Jon Scheyer - by Eurobasket News

Gran Canaria is in talks with Jon Scheyer (196-G-87, agency: Priority Sports, college: Duke) as reported by solobasket.com. The guard spent the previous season in Israel. He played for Maccabi Tel-Aviv. Jon Scheyer notched 3.0 points and 1.0 rebound per game in Adriatic League. In Euroleague the guard posted 1.0 point per appearance. Jon Scheyer also posted 2.4 points per game in Israeli League. Previously Jon Scheyer played in D-League. This summer the guard participated at AirTran Orlando Summer League. He notched 3.7 points and 1.0 board per game at the event. Jon Scheyer is the product of famous Duke basketball school. He notched impressive 18.2 points, 4.9 assists, 3.6 boards and 1.6 steals per game in his senior season with the Blue Devils. Jon Scheyer became NCAA champion with Duke in 2010. The guard made it into USBasket.com All-NCAA D1 2nd Team.


U18 European Championship: Spain stifle Serbia to stay unbeaten - by Eurobasket News

Spain U18 - Serbia U18 83:68

Spain stayed undefeated at the end of preliminary round of U18 European Championship. The defending champions defeated Serbia to clinch the top position in Group A with 3-0 record. Serbia suffered the first loss to slip at 2-1 record. Josep Perez (184-PG-94) stepped up with 18 points, 6 boards and 6 assists for the winners.
Spain surged ahead in the first term. The reigning champions dominated to post a 23:14 lead after ten minutes. But Serbia found the weapons to strike back. The Balkan team denied the deficit and snatched a 37:35 halftime lead. But Spain answered with a massive rally in the third term. They erupted for 31 points in the quarter building a 19-point lead at the final break. Serbia cut the distance to 12 points but could not get any closer surrendering at the end. Guillermo Hernangomez (209-C-94) scored 13 points, while Alberto Diaz (190-PG-94) and Ilimane Diop (209-C-95) added 12 points each for Spain. Nikola Radicevic (194-G-94) answered with 15 points for Serbia. Luka Andusic (191-G-94) netted 13 points in the loss.

Spain U18: Josep Perez 18, Guillermo Hernangomez 13, Alberto Diaz 12, Ilimane Diop 12
Serbia U18: Nikola Radicevic 15, Luka Andusic 13


CAI Zaragoza signs PG Pedro Llompart - by Eurobasket News

Pedro Llompart (190-G-82) will continue his career in CAI Zaragoza. The Spanish point guard signed a 1+1 year deal with his new club. He arrives to Zaragoza after four seasons with Alicante. In the latest one Llompart had 9.6 ppg, 3.4 apg and 2.6 rpg in 34 games. In 2010/11, the point guard collected 6.3 ppg, 3.4 apg and 1.5 rpg, also in 34 appearances. In 2009, Llompart and Alicante won the LEB Gold Playoffs and promotion for ACB. Before Alicante, Pedro Llompart spent one year with Tenerife Rural in LEB Gold. There he had 7.3 ppg, 2.4 apg and 1.9 rpg for 35 games. Llompart played for Pamesa Valencia from 2003 to 2006. The player also has experience from Murcia.


Fuenlabrada keeps Sergio Sanchez - by Eurobasket News

Sergio Sanchez (190-PG-81) will stay with Mad-Croc Fuenlabrada for another year, according to Solobasket.com. It will be their second season together. In the latest one Sanchez appeared 34 times in Liga Endesa averaging 6.6 points, 2.6 assists and 2 rebounds. The player also added 7.5 ppg and 2.5 apg for 15 games in EuroChallenge. Fuenla reached Quarterfinals in this competition. As mentioned above, Sergio Sanchez joined Fuenlabrada last summer from Estudiantes. With Estu he reached EuroCup QFinals a year ago. He had 7.1 ppg and 1.9 rpg for 13 games. Before Estu, Sanchez spent two years with Bruesa. He was a member of Estu also from 2005 to 2008. In 2005, Sergio Sanchez was named Eurobasket.com All-Spanish LEB Guard of the Year while playing for Huelva.


Coruna targets Pablo Almazan - by Eurobasket News

Leyma Basquet Coruna wants to sign Pablo Almazan (203-C/F-89) for the next season. According to Solobasket, they are close to agree a deal. Almazan spent 2011/12 with CAI Zaragoza. He appeared 31 times in Liga Endesa, but his playing time was very limited. The PF/C had only 1.3 ppg and 1 rpg. In 2010/11, Almazan played for Unicaja and Clinicas Rincon. With Unidaja he had 1.5 ppg and 1.3 rpg for 15 games in ACB. With Clinicas Rincon Almazan collected 9.6 ppg, 3.1 rpg and 2.4 apg for 20 games in LEB Gold. In 2009/10, Pablo Almazan was a member of Plasencia. There he had 9.3 ppg and 4.1 rpg for 33 games in LEB Silver. In the past, the big guy played for Jerez and Unicaja juniors. He also played for the Spanish U20, U18 and U16 National Teams.


Lakers Gasol relieved, says trade bittersweet - by Eurobasket News

Pau Gasol (7'0''-F/C-80) opened every assessment of the Dwight Howard (6'11''-C-85) trade Friday by wishing Andrew Bynum (7'0''-C-87, agency: David Lee services) well in Philadelphia.

Its bittersweet because Andrew is a good friend, Gasol said after Spain beat Russia in the Olympic basketball semifinals. A lot of emotions, these days, with the Olympics and now this news.

But now we (the Lakers) can go out there with a strong and powerful team. We will be expected to win the championship. Thats good. it puts us in good position.

For Gasol, the most important name in the trade was the one he did not hear his own.

Thats big news, he said, smiling. It will be nice to go into a year fully focused. Ive been involved in a lot of trade rumors.

Gasol said he heard about the rumors Thursday and that he might be involved a trade.

I talked to Kobe (Bryant) for a while and I felt better after that, he said.

But he didnt know it was official until he was warming up for the game with Russia, and TV sideline reporter Craig Sager asked him to comment.

There I am stretching, trying to get ready for an Olympic semifinal, he said. I finally gave him a little something (comment) so he would go away.

Courtesy of http://lakers.ocregister.com


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  SWEDEN   


U18 European Championship: Finland hand Sweden first loss - by Eurobasket News

Finland U18 - Sweden U18 91:76

Finland recorded the second victory at the U18 European Championship in Division B. Joonas Lehtoranta (183-SG-94) knocked down 29 points to pace the Finnish side past Sweden. Finland climbed at 2-1 record, while Sweden slipped at 2-1 record in Group C.
Finland and Sweden started the game aggressively. They teamed up for 46 points in the first stanza to stay tied at 23. Finland cleared off in the second term. They posted a 44:37 halftime advantage. Sweden denied the deficit in the third quarter. They pulled ahead for a 2-point lead at the final break. But Finland exploded with 33 points in the last ten minutes and sealed the victory at the end. Iikka Maki (191-SF-94) and Niko Mattila (191-SG-94) nailed 14 points each for the winning side. Adam Ramstedt (203-SF-95) replied with 22 points and 14 rebounds for Sweden. Alexander Gorski (193-SG-94) notched 18 points in the loss.

Finland U18: Joonas Lehtoranta 29, Iikka Maki 14, Niko Mattila 14
Sweden U18: Adam Ramstedt 22+14 boards, Alexander Gorski 18


Stockholm Eagles get bigger with Dragoljub Kitanovic - by Eurobasket News

Stockholm Eagles reinforced their roster under the basket. The Basketligan newcomer signed a deal with Serbian center Dragoljub Kitanovic (203-C-85). He spent last season with BKK Radnicki Belgrade. He appeared 39 times in Serbian league averaging 9.6 points and 3.2 rebounds. Kitanovic helped BKK Radnicki to reach the Superleague. Dragoljub Kitanovic played on Iceland in 2010/11 season. There he had 14.6 ppg, 5.6 rpg and 2.5 spg for 22 games. In the past, he spent several years with Vojvodina. His new team Stockholm Eagles were Basketettan champions last season. They ended it with perfect record.


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  SWITZERLAND   


U18 European Championship: Montenegro pull out win over Switzerland - by Eurobasket News

Montenegro U18 - Switzerland U18 77:57

Montenegro registered the second win at the U18 European Championship in Division B. They overcame Switzerland in Group C action. Montenegro improved thus at 2-1 record, while Switzerland slipped at 0-3. Milija Mikovic (205-C-94) came up with 29 points to pace the winners.
Montenegro held their counterparts to 8 points in the first quarter to take a 7-point lead. Montenegro consolidated their lead in the second quarter. The Balkan team went on a 27:11 rally to deepen the margin. Montenegro entered the second half up by 23 points. Switzerland cut the margin in the third term. They got within 14 points at the final intermission. But Montenegro reacted with 21:15 run in the fourth term and sealed the victory. Vasilije Vusovic (191-G-94) netted 9 points, while Masan Vrbica (190-G-94) contributed 8 points for the winning side. Daniel Andjelkovic (200-PF-94) answered with 16 points for Switzerland. Leo Schittenhelm (194-SF-94) had 14 points in defeat.

Montenegro U18: Milija Mikovic 29, Vasilije Vusovic 9, Masan Vrbica 8
Switzerland U18: Daniel Andjelkovic 16, Leo Schittenhelm 14


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  SYRIA   


Former Syrian NT head coach Goran Miljevic moves to Bahrain !!! - by Tarek Burhan

Goran Miljevic the former Syrian National team head coach signed a deal with Sitra club in Bahrain to be the head coach of Senior team at next season ..
The serbian coach worked in Libya with 4 different teams .. and he got very good results there and one of this results with BC Al Shabab, 1/4 final African 23 rd Champions Cup for Men in Tunis,6th place, the best result ever for Libyan clubs at 2008
also he won the gold Medal With Libyan Junior National team in Arab junior National team champion at 2006 ... recently he worked as associate head coach for Serbian U20 National team
Goran is nice man, and nice coach, he has special character in and out of the court .. Syrian National team showed really performence in last FIBA Asia champion after he took the National team before the competition started by 1 month only !!!

We wish all the best and all the luck for coach Goran in his new expirience in Bahrain ..


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  TURKEY   


Poland fired past Turkey at Beko-SuperCup opener - by Eurobasket News

Poland - Turkey 95:69

Poland celebrated the first win at the Beko-SuperCup international tournament. They overcame Turkey in Bamberg in opener. Marcin Gortat (213-C-84) scored 23 points to lead the winners.
Poland led from the start. They ensured a 26:18 lead after ten minutes. Poland exploded with 31 points in the second term to extend the lead. They established a 17-point halftime lead. Turkey finally adjusted their defence in the second half. They held Poland to 13 points in the third stanza to cut the deficit to 16 points. But Poland reacted with 25 points in the final frame and sealed the victory at the end. Dardan Berisha (192-G-88, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) and Michal Ignerski (207-F-80, agency: Stanley International, college: Mississippi St.) notched 14 points each for Poland. Adam Waczynski (199-F-89, agency: Limelight Hoops) netted 12 points for the winners. Semih Erden (213-C-86) answered with 13 points for Turkey. Birkan Batuk (197-SF-90) had 10 points in the loss.

Poland: Marcin Gortat 23, Dardan Berisha 14, Michal Ignerski 14, Adam Waczynski 12
Turkey: Semih Erden 13, Birkan Batuk 10


U18 European Championship: Turkey stay alive with victory over France - by Eurobasket News

Turkey U18 - France U18 66:56

Turkey clinched the crucial win over France in the third round of preliminary action at U18 European Championship. The victory means Turkey advances into the next round of action. France will have to wait for the result of Latvia vs. Bulgaria clash to get to know their fate. Kenan Sipahi (198-PG-95) and Cedi Osman (195-SG-95) scored 11 points each to lead well-balanced Turkish effort in the initial victory for the team.
Turkey jumped in front in the opening quarter. Aggressive defence helped them accumulate a 15:11 lead after ten minutes. Turkey boosted the lead in the second quarter. They accumulated a 39:29 halftime advantage. France stopped the rot in the third term. Les Bleus got within 8 points at the final intermission. But Turkey held their opponents to 11 points in the final stanza and sealed the victory at the end. Tayfun Erulku (193-SG-94) netted 10 points for the winners. Benjamin Sene (186-PG-94) responded with 22 points for France. Mouhammadou Jaiteh (207-C-94) had 15 points and 12 boards in the loss.

Turkey U18: Kenan Sipahi 11, Cedi Osman 11, Tayfun Erulku 10
France U18: Benjamin Sene 22, Mouhammadou Jaiteh 15+12 boards


Besiktas announce Gasper Vidmar - by Eurobasket News

Besiktas officially announced the arrival of Gasper Vidmar (211-C/F-87). The Slovenian player is loaned by Fenerbahce. Last season Gasper Vidmar averaged 4.1 points and 2.6 rebounds per game in Euroleague for Fenerbahce. Gasper Vidmar also notched 3.7 points and 2.4 rebounds per game in TBL. Previously Gasper Vidmar had stints with Union Olimpija, Geoplin Slovan and Ekipa Jance STZ. He was named All-Slovenian League Newcomer of the Year in 2006. Next year Gasper Vidmar was voted All-Slovenian League Most Improved Player of the Year. He also made it into All-Slovenian League 1st Team in 2007. Gasper Vidmar was the member of U16, U18 and U20 Slovenian National Teams. He has been the member of Slovenian National Team since 2007.


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  U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS   


Guidance Stages Wild Comeback to Storm into NBBA Finals - by David Edole

By Dave Davis August 11, 2012
Going into the fourth quarter of its New Breed Basketball Association playoff game, Guidance was trailing the Kings by 17 points but in the final period came storming back with 44 points, coming from behind and knocking the Kings out of the playoffs, 96-86, at the Ronald Charles Gymnasium Friday.

Guidance trailed by as many as 22 points in the third period, but led by the 13 points apiece from Rick Mabry and Stephaun Adams and the defensive intensity of Jerome Nathaniel, they exploded on offense while holding the Kings to 17 in the fourth.

The Kings, who came into the playoffs as the top seed, started Friday's contest as if they would blow Guidance off the court. The Kings led by 14 at the half and 17 after three quarters.

But in the final frame Guidance appeared re-energized while the Kings were shooting signs of fatigue. Mabry and Adams came alive offensively for Guidance while Nathaniel played lockdown defense on the Kings high-scoring forward, Devonte Pryce. Guidance also utilized a total team defensive effort to limit the touches of the Kings best player, Craig Williams (203-F-89), in the period. The winners hit six three-point shots in the fourth as they found their shooting range while the Kings could not throw it in the ocean.

With the entire gym seemingly cheering their every play, Guidance blew by the Kings, sending them home for the season with the 96-86 come-from-behind shocker.

Marby finished with a team high 25 points for Guidance; Joelfri Polanco had 16, Adams 14 and Ryan Rawlins 10. Nathaniel only scored 12 points but his all-around effort in the game was worthy of game MVP consideration. Along with his offensive contribution, he also dished out nine assists and could have been charged with grand larceny for his game-high six steals.

The Kings were led by Williams, who finished with game-highs in points, 26, and rebound, 18. They also got 24 points and 14 rebounds from Pryce, but only two of those came in the fourth quarter as Nathaniel's defense on him was stifling.


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  UKRAINE   


U18 European Championship: Ukraine topple Germany for first win - by Eurobasket News

Ukraine U18 - Germany U18 60:57

Ukraine registered the initial victory at the U18 European Championship. They held off Germany in the decisive battle for both teams in Group A. Vladyslav Koreniuk (206-C-94) nailed 19 points to lead the winners as they advanced to the next stage of the tournament after the victory.
Ukraine held Germany to 13 points in the opening quarter to take a 3-point lead. But Germany answered with an aggressive defence in the second term. They limited Ukraine to 8 points to surge ahead. The German team accumulated a 29:24 halftime advantage. Germany extended the lead in the third quarter. David Taylor (188-PG-95) posted 6 points in the period and Germany entered the fourth quarter up by 8 points 50:42. Ukraine used an 8:1 run to cut the deficit to a single point 55:56. Lugovtsov drained a triple to put Ukraine in front 58:57 with just over a minute remaining. Shevchenko stretched the lead to three points and then David Taylor missed a three-point attempt as Ukraine escaped with a key victory at the end. Igor Boyarkin (185-PG-95) notched 10 points, 8 assists and 5 boards, while Volodymyr Pishchikov (187-SG-94) and Stanislav Kudrya (189-PG-95) added 6 points each for the winners. David Taylor and Malik Mueller (188-G-94) responded with 12 points each for Germany.

Ukraine U18: Vladyslav Koreniuk 19, Igor Boyarkin 10, Volodymyr Pishchikov 6, Stanislav Kudrya 6
Germany U18: David Taylor 12, Malik Mueller 12


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


U18 European Championship: Luke Nelson leads England past Romania - by Eurobasket News

England U18 - Romania U18 60:55

England clinched the third straight win at the U18 European Championship in Division B. They knocked down Romania to stay perfect in Group A. Luke Nelson (189-PG-95) knocked down 19 points to lead the winners. Romania fell at 1-2 record after the loss.
England started the game confidently. They limited Romania to 10 points in the opening quarter earning a 6-point lead. England stretched the lead in the second term. They ensured a 41:24 halftime advantage. Romania slowed their opponents down in the third term. They narrowed the margin to 11 points heading into the fourth stanza. Romania got within a single point midway through the final term. But Luke Nelson four points and Dwayne Orija (193-SG-95) added two more in the final three minutes to seal the victory for England. Kingsley Okoroh (213-C-95) had 11 points and 11 rebounds for England. Vlad Popovici (200-PF-94) answered with 20 points and 11 rebounds for Romania. Vlad Cobzaru (201-C-95) netted 10 points in the loss.

England U18: Luke Nelson 19, Kingsley Okoroh 11+11 boards, Dwayne Orija 7
Romania U18: Vlad Popovici 20+11 boards, Vlad Cobzaru 10



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Women News


Australia wins Olympic bronze medal in women's basketball with 83-74 win over Russia - by Eurobasket News

Lauren Jackson (196-F/C-81) wouldn't let Australia leave the Olympics without a medal.

The 6-foot-5 Jackson scored 21 of her 25 points in the second half to help Australia beat Russia 83-74 on Saturday and win the womens basketball bronze medal.

It is the fifth straight Olympics that Australia has won a medal. The Australians had won the past three silver medals since winning the bronze in 1996.

Russia cut a 38-30 halftime lead to three early in the third quarter before Australia scored 10 straight to take command. Suzy Batkovic-Brown (195-C-80) had a three-point play on a tip-in of a missed shot and Jackson had a putback that made it 48-35 with 5:21 left in the quarter.

Australia extended the lead to 15 points on Jacksons basket with 7:21 left in the game before Russia rallied behind Becky Hammon (175-PG-77, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Colorado St.). The Russians cut their deficit to 76-71 with 1:21 left but thats as close as they could get.

Hammon scored 17 of her 19 points in the second half to lead Russia, which finished without a medal for the first time in three Olympics.

The Australians had the two most memorable moments in womens basketball at the Olympics. Belinda Snell hit a 50-foot heave to send a game into overtime and Cambage Elizabeth (203-C-91) had a dunk against Russia, which might have been the first in Olympic history.

Now they have a bronze medal.

They would have liked gold, or even silver, but the team were felt very good about the bronze.

Australian point guard Kristi Harrower (166-PG-75) finished with 21 points and four assists. The 37-year was playing in her final Olympics. As she dribbled out the final seconds on the clock, her teammates gathered around her, hugging and congratulating her. A few minutes later, they lifted Harrower up on their shoulders so she could be saluted by the fans.

Australia came into the London Games off a disappointing fifth place finish at the 2010 world championship. The Australians are missing star guard Penny Taylor, who tore her anterior cruciate ligament in the EuroLeague finals in April. They lost a pool game to France the first time they were beaten by a team other than the U.S. in the Olympics since 1996.

Winning a medal at this Olympics was something Jackson really wanted. The Australians challenged the U.S. in the semifinals, giving the Americans their first halftime deficit in Olympic play in 12 years. They just ran out of gas in the second half and fell by 13, leaving them playing for the bronze.

Trailing 20-19 early in the second quarter, Australia took control behind Harrower and Batkovic. The two sparked a 19-8 run to take control. Batkovic got the burst started with a jumper and had eight points during the spurt.

Hammon scored her first basket of the game just before the halftime buzzer to get Russia within eight at the half.

Hammon, 35, is playing in her second Olympics for Russia. She became a Russian naturalized citizen before the Beijing Games. Because she hadnt played for the United States in any major FIBA-sanctioned international events, she is allowed to compete for Russia in the Olympics.

The 5-foot-6 South Dakota native helped Russia win the bronze medal at the Beijing Games. This is the third straight Olympics that Russia has reached the semifinals, but the team had to settle for the bronze in Athens falling to the U.S. in 2004 and 2008.

Even though she didnt win a medal this Olympics, she had a less stressful experience. Her patriotism was questioned in 2008 when she played with Russia, which won the bronze medal.

Russia had won the bronze medal in the past two Olympics and hasnt won a gold medal since 1992 when the country was known as the Unified Team.


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  FRANCE   


USA women's basketball team rolls to seventh Olympic gold! - by Eurobasket News

France coach Pierre Vincent said his women's basketball team was carried by magic forces into the gold medal game.

To beat the USA on Saturday, France needed more than magic, much more.

The U.S. captured its fifth consecutive gold medal with an 86-50 victory against France, extending its Olympic winning streak to 41 games. The last Olympics loss came in the 1992 Barcelona Games. The U.S. is now 58-3 since women's basketball was added to the Olympics program in 1976, an amazing run of dominance. That includes seven gold medals.

The U.S. started slow against France, caught up a frenzied pace that yielded turnovers and sloppy play. But in the second quarter, the USA settled into its game, led by Candace Parker (6'4''-C-86, college: Tennessee) who had 15 of game-high 21 points and nine of her 11 game-high rebounds in the first half.

Sue Bird (5'9''-PG-80, college: Connecticut) added 11 points and three assists. Diana Taurasi (6'0''-SG-82, college: Connecticut) had nine points and six assists, and Maya Moore (6'0''-SG-89, college: Connecticut) had six points and seven rebounds for the USA.

All 12 American players scored.

Just Sandrine Gruda (6'4''-C-87) (12 points) reached double figures in scoring for France.

The USA ensured it would win gold with a dominating third quarter, outscoring France 26-12 and taking a 63-37 lead into the final 10 minutes. The U.S. put full-court pressure on France, limiting clever point guard Celine Dumerc's ability to effectively run France's offense. The pressure forced France into 26% shooting from the field.

Courtesy of www.usatoday.com


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  ITALY   


Le Mura Lucca inks National Team F Laura Spreafico - by Eurobasket News

Laura Spreafico (182-F/G-91) is a new member of Le Mura Lucca. The young Italian forward signed a deal for the next season. She arrives to the club from Pool Comense. Spreafico is a product of Comense, where she stated as teenager. She made debut for the senior squad in 2006. Last season the player had 3.2 ppg and 1.5 rpg for 26 games in SerieA1. Laura Spreafico played for Italian National Team this summer in 2013 EuroBasket qualifications. She had 13 ppg and 2 apg for 2 games. Last summer, Spreafico played for U20 Italian NT at U20 EuroBasket in Serbia. She had 7.9 ppg and 3.4 rpg for 9 games at this event. In the past, the forward very successfully played for U18 NT.


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  OLYMPIC GAMES   

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Johannah LEEDHAM
  ENG
  (180-SF-87)
  Avg: 16.2
 1. Leedham, ENG16.2 
 2. De Souza, BRA16.2 
 3. Jackson, AUS15.9 
 4. Chen, CHN15.7 
 5. Stafford, ENG15.2 
 6. Viteckova, CZE15.2 
 7. Dumerc, FRA14.3 
 8. Mandir, CRO14.0 
 9. Smith, CAN13.8 
 10. Cambage, AUS13.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Clarissa DOS SANTOS
  (187-C-88)
  Avg: 9
 1. Dos Santos, BRA9.0 
 2. De Souza, BRA8.8 
 3. Jackson, AUS7.9 
 4. Parker, USA7.8 
 5. Charles, USA7.3 
 6. Yilmaz, TUR7.2 
 7. Manuel, ANG7.2 
 8. Horakova, CZE6.8 
 9. Osipova, RUS6.8 
 10. Chen, CHN6.7 
Assists Per Game
 LiJie MIAO
  (178-F-81)
  Avg: 6.5
 1. Miao, CHN6.5 
 2. Vardarli, TUR4.5 
 3. Bird, USA4.5 
 4. Thorburn, CAN4.5 
 5. Pinto, BRA4.4 
 6. Hammon, RUS4.0 
 7. O''Hea, AUS3.5 
 8. Dumerc, FRA3.4 
 9. Lelas, CRO3.2 
 10. Rodrigues, BRA3.2 
Steals Per Game
 Jelena IVEZIC
  CRO
  (182-F/G-84)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Ivezic, CRO2.8 
 2. McCoughtry, USA2.5 
 3. Leedham, ENG2.4 
 4. Horakova, CZE2.0 
 5. Alben, TUR1.8 
 6. Catchings, USA1.6 
 7. Dumerc, FRA1.6 
 8. Yilmaz, TUR1.5 
 9. Moore, USA1.5 
 10. Vodopiyanova, RUS1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Sandrine GRUDA
  FRA
  (193-C-87)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Gruda, FRA2.1 
 2. Burgrova, CZE1.7 
 3. De Souza, BRA1.6 
 4. Cambage, AUS1.6 
 5. Ivankovic, CRO1.4 
 6. Stewart, ENG1.4 
 7. Parker, USA1.3 
 8. Fagbenle, ENG1.2 
 9. Osipova, RUS1.1 
 10. Kulichova, CZE1.0 


USA rolls to seventh Olympic gold! - by Eurobasket News

FINAL
USA - France 86-50
France coach Pierre Vincent said his women's basketball team was carried by magic forces into the gold medal game. To beat the USA on Saturday, France needed more than magic, much more. The U.S. captured its fifth consecutive gold medal with an 86-50 victory against France, extending its Olympic winning streak to 41 games. The last Olympics loss came in the 1992 Barcelona Games. The U.S. is now 58-3 since women's basketball was added to the Olympics program in 1976, an amazing run of dominance. That includes seven gold medals. The U.S. started slow against France, caught up a frenzied pace that yielded turnovers and sloppy play. But in the second quarter, the USA settled into its game, led by Candace Parker (193-C-86, college: Tennessee) who had 15 of game-high 21 points and nine of her 11 game-high rebounds in the first half. Sue Bird (175-PG-80, college: Connecticut) added 11 points and three assists. Diana Taurasi (183-SG-82, college: Connecticut) had nine points and six assists, and Maya Moore (183-SG-89, college: Connecticut) had six points and seven rebounds for the USA. All 12 American players scored. Just Sandrine Gruda (193-C-87) (12 points) reached double figures in scoring for France. The USA ensured it would win gold with a dominating third quarter, outscoring France 26-12 and taking a 63-37 lead into the final 10 minutes. The U.S. put full-court pressure on France, limiting clever point guard Celine Dumerc's ability to effectively run France's offense. The pressure forced France into 26% shooting from the field. Courtesy of www.usatoday.com

Third place
Australia - Russia 83-74
Lauren Jackson (196-F/C-81) wouldn't let Australia leave the Olympics without a medal. The 6-foot-5 Jackson scored 21 of her 25 points in the second half to help Australia beat Russia 83-74 on Saturday and win the women's basketball bronze medal.It is the fifth straight Olympics that Australia has won a medal. The Australians had won the past three silver medals since winning the bronze in 1996. Russia cut a 38-30 halftime lead to three early in the third quarter before Australia scored 10 straight to take command. Suzy Batkovic-Brown (195-C-80) had a three-point play on a tip-in of a missed shot and Jackson had a putback that made it 48-35 with 5:21 left in the quarter. Australia extended the lead to 15 points on Jackson's basket with 7:21 left in the game before Russia rallied behind Becky Hammon (175-PG-77, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Colorado St.). The Russians cut their deficit to 76-71 with 1:21 left but that's as close as they could get. Hammon scored 17 of her 19 points in the second half to lead Russia, which finished without a medal for the first time in three Olympics. The Australians had the two most memorable moments in women's basketball at the Olympics. Belinda Snell hit a 50-foot heave to send a game into overtime and Cambage Elizabeth (203-C-91) had a dunk against Russia, which might have been the first in Olympic history. Now they have a bronze medal. They would have liked gold, or even silver, but the team were felt very good about the bronze. Australian point guard Kristi Harrower (166-PG-75) finished with 21 points and four assists. The 37-year was playing in her final Olympics. As she dribbled out the final seconds on the clock, her teammates gathered around her, hugging and congratulating her. A few minutes later, they lifted Harrower up on their shoulders so she could be saluted by the fans. Australia came into the London Games off a disappointing fifth place finish at the 2010 world championship. The Australians are missing star guard Penny Taylor, who tore her anterior cruciate ligament in the EuroLeague finals in April. They lost a pool game to France - the first time they were beaten by a team other than the U.S. in the Olympics since 1996. Winning a medal at this Olympics was something Jackson really wanted. The Australians challenged the U.S. in the semifinals, giving the Americans their first halftime deficit in Olympic play in 12 years. They just ran out of gas in the second half and fell by 13, leaving them playing for the bronze. Trailing 20-19 early in the second quarter, Australia took control behind Harrower and Batkovic. The two sparked a 19-8 run to take control. Batkovic got the burst started with a jumper and had eight points during the spurt. Hammon scored her first basket of the game just before the halftime buzzer to get Russia within eight at the half. Hammon, 35, is playing in her second Olympics for Russia. She became a Russian naturalized citizen before the Beijing Games. Because she hadn't played for the United States in any major FIBA-sanctioned international events, she is allowed to compete for Russia in the Olympics. The 5-foot-6 South Dakota native helped Russia win the bronze medal at the Beijing Games. This is the third straight Olympics that Russia has reached the semifinals, but the team had to settle for the bronze in Athens - falling to the U.S. in 2004 and 2008. Even though she didn't win a medal this Olympics, she had a less stressful experience. Her patriotism was questioned in 2008 when she played with Russia, which won the bronze medal. Russia had won the bronze medal in the past two Olympics and hasn't won a gold medal since 1992 when the country was known as the Unified Team. *Courtesy of www.washingtonpost.com


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  POLAND   


Aleksandra Chomac will replace Anna Wielebnowska in KK ROW Rybnik - by Lukasz Lukaszewski

KK ROW Rybnik was not looking long for the player who will replace Anna Wielebnowska (188-C-78) in the team. Club signed contract with polish NT Aleksandra Chomac (191-C-85, agency: Data Plus Group). This 27-year old center will be probably the last player in KK ROW Rybnik.

Aleksandra Chomac graduated SMS PZKosz Warszawa in 2004. She was very talented young player so she signed contract with Lotos Gdynia. In this team she made a debut in
PLKK and Euroleague. In Jan'06 she was loaned to AZS Chem. After that she had been playing in KSSSE AZS PWSZ Gorzow Wlkp. for 2 years. Then she signed contract with KK ROW Rybnik for one season. She started 2009/2010 season in Energa Torun, but in January'10 she moved to Artego Bydgoszcz.

Lately, Aleksandra Chomac has been playing for Matizol Lider Pruszkow for 2 years. In last season she averaged 8.3ppg, 5.6rpg in 33 league games. She got nomination for PLKK
All Star Game 2012 and Polish NT in last two years.

What is more Katarzyna Gawor (188-F-88) will stay in team for another season. Also young Joanna Labuz (174-G-93) will train with KK ROW Rybnik.




Polish talented forward joins CCC Polkowice - by Lukasz Lukaszewski

CCC Polkowice signed contract with young, very perspective player Dorota Mistygacz (183-F/C-92). That 20-year old forward is on the U20 Polish NT Camp at the moment. She will play on
Eurobasket Women U20 this year.

Dorota Mistygacz is 20 years old and she was born in Leszno. Last 4 years she had been playing for clubs from Poznan. That talented forward spent 2 seasons in MUKS Poznan
at first. Then she moved to Inea AZS Poznan, where she was playing another 2 years. In last season she averaged 4, 7 points and 5, 3 rebounds in 24 PLKK league games. She
was playing also at Lider AZS II Swarzedz in 1st league.

That 20-year old forward has got a lot of experience from international games. She was part of the U16, U18 and U20 Polish National Team. She won the bronze medal last year with
U20. This year she will play last junior tournament with Polish U20 women team.



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


Portugal U20 open with win in Rio Maior - by Eurobasket News

Portuguese U20 National Team is in the final stage of their preparations for the upcoming U20 European Championship. They host the international tournament in Rio Maior. Portugal took on Swiss counterparts in the opener. The hosts celebrated a comfortable 79:34 victory. Ines Faustino (170-G-92) scored 16 points to lead the winners.
Portugal held Switzerland to just 9 points in the opening quarter. The hosts built a 13-point lead after ten minutes. Portugal stretched the margin to as many as 24 points at halftime 39:15. Portugal kept their opponents at distance throughout the third quarter. They ensured a 27-point cushion at the final intermission. The home side never looked back afterwards cruising to the victory at the end. Vitoria Pacheco (179-C-92) provided 10 points and 5 boards, while Jessica Almeida (172-PG-93) chipped in 10 points for the winners.
Portugal will have a day of rest before taking on Great Britain.


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


Brandie Hoskins joins Sportul Studencesc, according to report - by Eurobasket News

Brandie Hoskins (175-G-85) will play next season for Sportul Studencesc, according to Romanian media (Totalbaschet.ro). The American was named Eurobasket.com All-Romanian League Guard of the Year -12. She played for Craiova averaging 25.4 points, 5.2 rebounds, 4.2 assists and 2.4 steals for 32 games. Hoskins was top scorer of the league. In 2010/11 season, the player was second scorer of the Portuguese championship. At that time she had 20.9 ppg, 8.8 rpg and 2.5 apg for 20 games with Boa Viagem-Angra-Acore. She was named to Eurobasket.com All-Portuguese League 2nd Team -11. In the past, Brandie Hoskins played in Ukraine, Israel and Greece. She graduated at the Ohio State University in 2007. With USA University NT, Hoskins won the Gold at 2005 World University Game in Turkey.


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


Australia wins Olympic bronze medal in women's basketball with 83-74 win over Russia - by Eurobasket News

Lauren Jackson (196-F/C-81) wouldn't let Australia leave the Olympics without a medal.

The 6-foot-5 Jackson scored 21 of her 25 points in the second half to help Australia beat Russia 83-74 on Saturday and win the womens basketball bronze medal.

It is the fifth straight Olympics that Australia has won a medal. The Australians had won the past three silver medals since winning the bronze in 1996.

Russia cut a 38-30 halftime lead to three early in the third quarter before Australia scored 10 straight to take command. Suzy Batkovic-Brown (195-C-80) had a three-point play on a tip-in of a missed shot and Jackson had a putback that made it 48-35 with 5:21 left in the quarter.

Australia extended the lead to 15 points on Jacksons basket with 7:21 left in the game before Russia rallied behind Becky Hammon (175-PG-77, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Colorado St.). The Russians cut their deficit to 76-71 with 1:21 left but thats as close as they could get.

Hammon scored 17 of her 19 points in the second half to lead Russia, which finished without a medal for the first time in three Olympics.

The Australians had the two most memorable moments in womens basketball at the Olympics. Belinda Snell hit a 50-foot heave to send a game into overtime and Cambage Elizabeth (203-C-91) had a dunk against Russia, which might have been the first in Olympic history.

Now they have a bronze medal.

They would have liked gold, or even silver, but the team were felt very good about the bronze.

Australian point guard Kristi Harrower (166-PG-75) finished with 21 points and four assists. The 37-year was playing in her final Olympics. As she dribbled out the final seconds on the clock, her teammates gathered around her, hugging and congratulating her. A few minutes later, they lifted Harrower up on their shoulders so she could be saluted by the fans.

Australia came into the London Games off a disappointing fifth place finish at the 2010 world championship. The Australians are missing star guard Penny Taylor, who tore her anterior cruciate ligament in the EuroLeague finals in April. They lost a pool game to France the first time they were beaten by a team other than the U.S. in the Olympics since 1996.

Winning a medal at this Olympics was something Jackson really wanted. The Australians challenged the U.S. in the semifinals, giving the Americans their first halftime deficit in Olympic play in 12 years. They just ran out of gas in the second half and fell by 13, leaving them playing for the bronze.

Trailing 20-19 early in the second quarter, Australia took control behind Harrower and Batkovic. The two sparked a 19-8 run to take control. Batkovic got the burst started with a jumper and had eight points during the spurt.

Hammon scored her first basket of the game just before the halftime buzzer to get Russia within eight at the half.

Hammon, 35, is playing in her second Olympics for Russia. She became a Russian naturalized citizen before the Beijing Games. Because she hadnt played for the United States in any major FIBA-sanctioned international events, she is allowed to compete for Russia in the Olympics.

The 5-foot-6 South Dakota native helped Russia win the bronze medal at the Beijing Games. This is the third straight Olympics that Russia has reached the semifinals, but the team had to settle for the bronze in Athens falling to the U.S. in 2004 and 2008.

Even though she didnt win a medal this Olympics, she had a less stressful experience. Her patriotism was questioned in 2008 when she played with Russia, which won the bronze medal.

Russia had won the bronze medal in the past two Olympics and hasnt won a gold medal since 1992 when the country was known as the Unified Team.


*****************************************************
  SWITZERLAND   


Fribourg land Kaitlin Sowinski and Da'Shena Stevens - by Eurobasket News

Fribourg announced the signing of two import players. They agreed on terms of contracts with Kaitlin Sowinski (196-C-86, agency: Two Points, college: Sacred Heart) and Da'Shena Stevens (185-F-90, agency: Two Points)..
Kaitlin Sowinski started the previous season in Romania. The centre played for ICIM Arad. Her stats read 4.4 points, 2.7 rebounds and 1.1 blocks per game in D1. Later Kaitlin Sowinski moved to Beroe 07 in Bulgaria. The centre notched 10.0 points, 6.7 rebounds, 1.7 blocks per appearance in NBL. Kaitlin Sowinski finished the season in Spain. She played for Huelva. Her stats read 13.8 points, 6.1 rebounds and 1.4 blocks in LF2.
Da'Shena Stevens will start her pro career in Switzerland. She graduated from St. John's this year. The forward notched 11.3 points, 5.9 rebounds, 2.4 assists and 1.1 steals per appearance. Da'Shena Stevens was named All-Big East Scholar-Athlete of the Year in 2012.


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


USA women's basketball team rolls to seventh Olympic gold! - by Eurobasket News

France coach Pierre Vincent said his women's basketball team was carried by magic forces into the gold medal game.

To beat the USA on Saturday, France needed more than magic, much more.

The U.S. captured its fifth consecutive gold medal with an 86-50 victory against France, extending its Olympic winning streak to 41 games. The last Olympics loss came in the 1992 Barcelona Games. The U.S. is now 58-3 since women's basketball was added to the Olympics program in 1976, an amazing run of dominance. That includes seven gold medals.

The U.S. started slow against France, caught up a frenzied pace that yielded turnovers and sloppy play. But in the second quarter, the USA settled into its game, led by Candace Parker (6'4''-C-86, college: Tennessee) who had 15 of game-high 21 points and nine of her 11 game-high rebounds in the first half.

Sue Bird (5'9''-PG-80, college: Connecticut) added 11 points and three assists. Diana Taurasi (6'0''-SG-82, college: Connecticut) had nine points and six assists, and Maya Moore (6'0''-SG-89, college: Connecticut) had six points and seven rebounds for the USA.

All 12 American players scored.

Just Sandrine Gruda (6'4''-C-87) (12 points) reached double figures in scoring for France.

The USA ensured it would win gold with a dominating third quarter, outscoring France 26-12 and taking a 63-37 lead into the final 10 minutes. The U.S. put full-court pressure on France, limiting clever point guard Celine Dumerc's ability to effectively run France's offense. The pressure forced France into 26% shooting from the field.

Courtesy of www.usatoday.com