EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 8/14/2012 1:04:01 AM

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Men News

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  ARGENTINA   



Argentino signs first import - Maurice Bolden - by Eurobasket News

Maurice Bolden (208-G/F-89, agency: Strategic Sports, college: S.Mississippi) will start his professional basketball career in Argentina. The American big guy signed a deal with Argentino de Junin. Bolden is a product of Southern Mississippi University, where he spent last three seasons. In the latest one the player had 9.7 ppg and 5.2 rpg in 34 games. He helped Southern Mississippi to reach C-USA Tournament Semifinals and the school was C-USA regular season runner-up as well. In 2010, they were also stopped in C-USA Tournament Semis. That year Bolden had 8.7 ppg and 5.9 rpg in 34 games.
Earlier this year, Maurice Bolden spent some time with UBA team GIE Morrow Disciples. He helped them win UBA title. His new team Argentino de Junin reached TNA Finals last season. They will compete in LigaA 2012/13.


Liga A: Penarol look for their 4th straight title - by Facundo Iatzky

Penarol Mar del plata want to keep making history in argentinian basketball. For that reason they have completed a fantastic roster for the upcoming season of Liga A. The coach will be Sergio Hernandez again, with Fernando Tulo Rivero as assistant coach.
The players will be the following: Leonardo Gutierrez (201-PF-78), David Teague (196-G-83, college: Purdue), Facundo Campazzo (179-PG-91), Selem Safar (190-G-87), Matias Ibarra, Derrick Alston (207-C/F-72, agency: Priority Sports, college: Duquesne), Marcos Mata, Franco giorgetti, Lisandro Rasio (197-F/C-90), Fernando podesta and Martin Leiva. some of the U19 players will be: Nicolas Madrid, Julian Morales and Pablo Alderete


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  AUSTRALIA   


Big V: Coach & Player of the Month- July - by Eurobasket News

JULY COTM & POTM
SCM Player of the Month
Skyler Bowlin (190-G-89, agency: Warren Sports International, college: Missouri So.) (Ringwood Hawks)
What do we like about Skyler Bowlin? Everything! The Ringwood import delivered great numbers across the board during July, giving his team averages of 19.8pts, 5.4rbs, 5.0ass, 3stls, 3.2 treys in five games, all of which were wins for the title favourites.

SCM Coach of the Month
Cam Lloyd (Eltham Wildcats)
While Ringwood and Waverley also put a nice win streak together during July, Eltham made its move with coach Cameron Lloyd grabbing wins despite a few injuries to key players. Wins against Corio Bay (14), Sherbrooke (10), Corio Bay (7) and Hume City (13) lifted the Wildcats into second place.
Courteesy of: www.bigv.com.au


Patty Mills top scorer in London - by Eurobasket News

Australian star Patrick Mills (183-PG-88, college: St.Mary's, CA) has finished ahead of NBA superstars Kevin Durant (206-SF-88, college: Texas) and Emanuel Ginobili (198-SG-77, agency: Interperformances) to post the leading scoring average in the mens basketball competition at the 2012 London Olympic Games.

Mills was the main offensive force for the Australian men's team in their drive to the Quarter Finals in London, and averaged 21.2 points per game for the tournament.

That ranked the Australian guard ahead of star Oklahoma City Thunder forward Kevin Durant of Team USA (19.5 points per game) and Argentinean guard (and Mills teammate on the San Antonio Spurs) Manu Ginobili (19.1).

Mills also finished ahead of Spanish star Pau Gasol and Team USA leading lights Kobe Bryant and LeBron James.

The indigenous Australian stars Olympic haul included a superb 39-point game in Australias win over host nation Great Britain, which was also the highest single-game scoring total of any player in London.

The only Australian ever to score more points in a single game at an Olympics is the legendary Eddie Palubinskas, who had 48 points against Mexico at the 1976 Montreal Olympic Games.

Basketball Australia Chief Executive Officer Kristina Keneally said Mills performance in London was nothing short of inspirational.

The efforts of Patty Mills in London were a terrific embodiment of the Australian spirit he constantly took it up to tough opposition and just never backed down, said Ms. Keneally.

For an Australian athlete to lead the scoring averages at an Olympic level is a shining example for all of our aspiring young athletes.

The most exciting thing is that Patty is still very early on in his career with many more Olympic Games and World Championships ahead of him.

For him to be the leading scorer among the best of the best in the world on the largest possible international stage at just 24 years of age bodes well for the future of Australian basketball.

Courtesy of NBL Australia


Hawks cruise to victory against Northern Colorado University - by Eurobasket News

The Wollongong NRE Hawks cruised to a 87-63 victory over the Northern Colorado Bears Sunday afternoon in front of another great crowd at the Snakepit, the spiritual home of basketball in the Illawarra.

The Hawks had five players score in double-digits with both David Gruber (198-F-81, college: N.Iowa) and Oscar Forman (205-F/C-82) leading with 16 points a piece.

It was a physical encouter lead by Northern Colorado to start the game, and that physicality continued throughout the game with some near altercations between the two sides.

After a scrappy first quarter, the Hawks jumped to a 17-14 lead on the back of great energy and hustle off the bench by Dave Gruber, including a huge slam which got the Snakepit crowd pumping late in the quarter.

Northern Colorado got into early foul trouble in the second quarter and within four minutes they were in team fouls. The Hawks extended the lead to 24-16 on the back of some nice free throw shooting.

The Hawks took a 39-28 lead into the half on the back of Glen Saville (197-F/G-76) distributing the ball with ease to Demos, Forman and Gruber.

Rhys Martin (193-G-86, college: Nova SE) took the game over in the third quarter scoring eight points and finding open players for easy shots. He finished the game with 12 points, 4 rebounds and 5 assists.

After three quarters of play the Hawks were in front 60-45. Fourth quarter started with Oscar Forman and Larry Davidson taking over, within two minutes of play the lead was out to 21 points on the back of triples by both Hawks bigs.

With six minutes to go in the game, UNCO Bears Coach was ejected after receiving his second technical foul of the game, after he continued challenging the officials on the sidelines. His exit from the game didn't help his side as the Hawks continued to light the scoreboard on fire, extending the lead to a game high 30 points with a few minutes left of action.

Gordie McLeod cleared the bench and put the young Illawarra locals on the floor in the final few minutes to get some game action in front of their home town crowd. At the final buzzer the game was over 87-63, a comfortable win for the Wollongong NRE Hawks.

Oscar Forman finished with 16 points and 6 rebounds, David Gruber had 16 points, Glen Saville had a complete performance with 15 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists.

In the backcourt the Hawks were lead by Rhys Martin and Tyson Demos who finished with 12 points and 3 assists.

Courtesy of NBL Australia


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  BALKAN LEAGUE   


Greek side PAOK wants to play in the Balkan League - by Eurobasket News

The interest in the EUROHOLD Balkan League is rising every year. This summer one of the most popular Greek clubs PAOK Thessaloniki has contacted the management of the BIBL with ambition to join the competition.

A meeting between the two sides is yet to be held with exchanging information and a final decision about PAOK joining the BIBL will be taken until the end of August. Before that Shay Shtriks will meet the director of PAOK Branislav Prelevic, as they will discuss everything necessary about PAOK's possible participation in the League.

If everything is good and the decision is positive PAOK will become the first Greek team to play in the EUROHOLD Balkan League.

Courtesy of www.balkanleague.net


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  BELARUS   


U18 European Championship: Hungary stole a win from Belarus - by Eurobasket News

Belarus U18-Hungary U18 83:84

Hungary stole a win from Belarus in the start of Day 5 at the U18 European Championship in Division B. Hungary won 84:83 to finish the group with 3-2 record. Belarus meanwhile fell at 1-4 record on the fifth place.
Both teams nailed 22 points in the first period and the game was expected a tough one. Hungary won the second period 25-15 and enjoyed however 10-point halftime advantage. Belarus meanwhile produced two victories in the second half and took 83:82 lead after Luka Malakhau (185-PG-94)s shot. Zoltan Perl (194-G-95) however scored two free throws for the final success.
Zoltan Perl top-scored for the winners with 18 points and Benedek Varadi (194-G/F-95) notched 17. Janos Velkey (193-G-95) delivered 15, while Kristof Bognar (206-C/F-94) brought 12. Luka Malakhau ended up with 28 points in the losing effort. Yahor Patupchyk (191-SG-94) added 18 and Anton Vashkevich (203-F/C-94) scored 13.

Belarus U18: Luka Malakhau 28, Yahor Patupchyk 18, Anton Vashkevich 13
Hungary U18: Zoltan Perl 18, Benedek Varadi 17, Janos Velkey 15, Kristof Bognar 12


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  BELGIUM   


Oostende Transfer - by Peter Buyse

Interesting transfer for Base Oostende with the recruitment of Croatian-German forward Mario Stojic (198-G/F-80). Started his career in Croatia in the late 90s, playing for KK Zagreb and KK Zadar. Moved to Benetton Treviso in Italy for the 2001-2002 season. Started the next season there too, before heading to Spain to play for Alicante to finish out the 2002-2003 season. Was with Real Madrid between 2003 and 2005. The next 4 seasons between 2005 and 2009 he spent at Menorca. Had his best statistical season there in 07-08 with averages of 14.1 ppg and 2.7 rpg. The past 2 seaons he also played in Spain this time for Alicante.
Mario was a member of several Croatian National teams, among others the U18, U20, U21 and on occasions also on the senior NT.


VOO Verviers Transfers - by Peter Buyse

A new day another 2 additions to the Verviers-Pepinster roster. First off 25 year old 2.17 mr Serbian center Dragan Tubak (217-C-87).
He started his career at Borac Cacak in the Serbian superleague during the 07-08 and 08-09 seasons. He then moved to the B team of Crvena Zvezda for the 09-10 season.
In 10-11 he was recruited by another Beograd team, namely Radnicki. He played there too during the 2011-2012 season and in 35 games averaged 5.4 ppg and 3.3 rpg.

Next up Chris Ferguson, an 2.06 mr NAIA player from Mid-Continent University. After his seniour year he was voted to the TransSouth Athletic 1st team with averages of 13.8 ppg and 11.2 rpg. As a senior he played 19 games and averaged 13.8 ppg and 10.7 rpg.


U18 European Championship: Belgium advanced to the next stage despite the loss - by Eurobasket News

Belgium U18-Holland U18 74:79

Belgium advanced to the next stage despite the loss from Holland at the U18 European Championship in Division B. The latter won 79:74 but finished third with 2-2 record. Belgium as well as Portugal ended up with the same record, but Belgium advanced to Elite Eight with the better difference.
Belgium won the first period 19-17, but Holland grabbed 33:32 lead at the halftime. Moreover Holland was one step from the Second stage after 27-9 in the third period, but failed at the end of the game. Belgium erupted with 33-19 in the last stanza and advanced to the next stage.
Mathias Van Steenwinkel (200-F-94) led the way with 17 points and Emmanuel Lecomte (180-G-95) netted 11. Naim El Khounchar (193-G-94) and Mathijs Gijbels (204-PF-95) posted 10 points each. Jito Kok (205-C-94) answered with 23 points and 11 rebounds in defeat, whilst Mike Schilder (185-PG-94, agency: Court Side) added 19. Shane Hammink (198-F-94) poured in 18 and Floris Versteeg (205-F-94) notched 6.

Belgium U18: Jito Kok 23+11 rebs, Mike Schilder 19, Shane Hammink 18, Floris Versteeg 6
Holland U18: Mathias Van Steenwinkel 17, Emmanuel Lecomte 11, Naim El Khounchar 10, Mathijs Gijbels 10


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  BRAZIL   


Gran Canaria lands Brazilian Paulo Prestes for 2012/13 - by Eurobasket News

Gran Canaria continues with signings for the upcoming season. Their new member is Brazilian center Paulo Prestes (210-C-88), who penned a 1-year deal today. He played for the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2012 NBA Summer League in Las Vegas. For 5 games Prestes had 5.4 ppg and 5.8 rpg. Last season the bug guy finished with Lithuanian team Pieno Zvaigzdes Pasvalys. He joined them in February averaging 6.9 points and 5.5 rebounds for 11 games in LKL. Prestes had slightly lower numbers in 4 Baltic league appearances. In 2010/11 season Paulo Prests played for Granada registering 7.3 ppg and 5.3 rpg in 34 games. Before that he played for Murcia, Clinicas Rincon, Unicaja Malaga and COC Ribeirao Preto. In 2010 NBA Draft he was selected as 45th overall pick by the Wolves. Paulo Prestes played for the Brazilian National Team in 2006, 2007 and 2009.


Limeira add american Omar Carter - by Paulo Freire

The team of Limeira has a new reinforcing for the 2012-2013 season. The team of Sao Paulo State announced the signing of american player Omar Carter (195-G-88, agency: Strategic Sports), who is 24 years old and 1.95 m tall, he was playing in the NCAA, where he averaged 14 points, 5.7 rebounds and 1.6 assists.

Newly graduated in sociology, Carter will play for the first time outside the United States. According to him, the challenge of playing in a different country is motivating.

"I see this opportunity as a big challenge, but what is life without pressures and changes? New place, new people, but with the help of my new teammates and coach, I will have a good adaptation, and everything will go well, "said the player.


Desmond Holloway sign with Sorocaba - by Paulo Freire

The Liga Sorocabana de Basquete team made a official presentation of their new roster for the 2012-2013 season and took the opportunity to give a gift to their fans, the team announced the hiring of a new player the american Desmond Holloway (190-G-88, college: Co.Carolina).

With 24 years old the the guard is 1.91 m tall and 78 kg, the athlete was playing in Mexico defending the jersey of Guaymas, before he played in the United States at the college level.

"This is a player who made a good role in the Mexican basketball and that will help us enough, further strengthening of our roster", complements head coach Rinaldo Rodrigues.

The Sorocaba team also renew the contract of Fabricio Russo (196-F-85), Thiago Labbate (208-C-83) ans Alex Marques (198-G-94).



Burgos extend Marcus Vinicius Toledo - by Eurobasket News

Autocid Ford Burgos extended the contract of Marcus Vinicius Toledo (203-F-86). The Brazilian forward will enter the third straight season with the team. Last season Marcus Vinicius Toledo posted 7.6 points, 5.4 boards and 1.6 assists per game in LEB Gold. Previously the forward had spells with Manresa, Pujol Lleida, Tarragona, LHospitalet, Hebraica and Club Atletico Monte Libano. He has been the member of Brazilian National Team since 2008. Marcus Vinicius Toledo participated at 2012 South American Championship. The forward notched 3.6 points and 2.4 rebounds per game in Argentina.


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  BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS   


Mega Disappointment! Legs Sweep Mega Mix To Retain Basketball Crown; Hawks Repeat As Junior Champs - by David Edole

Hopes of a competitive senior division basketball championship series between defending champs, Legs and Mega Mix were quickly erased as Legs completed a three game sweep in the best of five series at the Multipurpose Sports Complex on Sunday evening, August 12.

Mega Mixs coach, Verne 'Vego Turnbull promised to devise a game plan to counter the potent Legs offense following their season loss, while Legs Kennedy Bass (196-F-81, college: Anderson, SC) told BVI Platinum News that this season his team will let their play do the talking on the court.

That being the case, then Legs spoke loudly and indicated that their series win against East to clinch the championship last year was no fluke.

Legs finished with the title and an unbeaten record led by Jasin Edwin, who was awarded the Most Valuable Player. Legs capped their impressive season with a 118-79 clubbing of Mega Mix on Sunday. Khalid Gerard finished with a game-high 32 points for Leg. He also grabbed 5 rebounds and picked off 4 steals.

Younger Legs players, Dione Blyden and Deon Edwin contributed with 19 and 14 points respectively. Gary Hilhouse scored 15 points for the champions.

Devon Watty scored 17 points and grabbed 8 rebounds for Mega Mix. He was supported by Halstead 'JR Chiverton with 15 points; Nathaniel Malone, 12 points and 9 rebounds; and Tevon Phillip, 10 points.

In the junior division, Javier Martinez led all scorers with 24 points and doubled with 10 rebounds as the defending champs, Hawks piled on 24 points in the first quarter and 31 in the third quarter to clinch their best of five series, 89-70 and retain the crown on Sunday.

Ryan Alfred (95) added 23 points, Shakiel Humphrey (95) finished with 17 points and Keita Jones had 11 points all for the Hawks.

On the other side of the floor, Deshawn Creque and Michael Benjamin each finished with 14 points for Young Gunners. Shem Samuel and Ashield Frett ended with 13 and 12 points respectively.

Meanwhile, VG-Heats picked up the D-League championship.


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  BULGARIA   


U18 European Championship: Gregor Hrovat lifts Slovenia past Bulgaria - by Eurobasket News

Slovenia U18 - Bulgaria U18 84:81

Slovenia registered the first win at the Second Stage of U18 European Championship. They overcame Bulgaria to improve at 1-2 record in Group F. Bulgaria in the meantime slipped at 2-1 record. Gregor Hrovat (196-G-94) scored 27 points to lead the winners.
Slovenia led by just a single point 24:23 after ten minutes. Bulgaria erased the deficit and pulled ahead for a 44:42 halftime lead. Bulgaria drew things level after the third term. The teams entered the final stanza tied at 55. But Slovenia exploded with 29 points in the fourth quarter and sealed the victory at the end. Matic Rebec (180-PG-95) provided 19 points, while Aleksej Nikolic (185-G-95) contributed 15 points for the winners. Aleksandar Vezenkov (205-SF-95) answered with 31 points for Bulgaria. Nikolay Stoyanov (195-SF-94) notched 19 points in the loss.

Slovenia U18: Gregor Hrovat 27, Matic Rebec 19, Aleksej Nikolic 15
Bulgaria U18: Aleksandar Vezenkov 31, Nikolay Stoyanov 19


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  CAPE VERDE   


Cape Verde will host the Zone II qualifiers for Afrobasket 2013 - by Eurobasket Center

Cape Verde, Mali, Mauritania and Senegal have confirmed their participation to the Zone II qualifiers of Afrobasket 2013 that will taking place from August 12 to 22 in Praia, Cape Verde.

System of competition:
First leg : 03 Days
12- 13 and 14 August

Rest day : August 15

Return leg: 03 Days
16-17 and 18 August


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  CROATIA   


U18 European Championship: Croatia show no mercy beating Turkey - by Eurobasket News

Croatia U18 - Turkey U18 78:62

Croatia recorded the fourth straight win at the U18 European Championship. They defeated Turkey at the start of the Second Stage of the tournament. Croatia improved at 3-0 record on top of Group F. Dario Saric (208-F-94) stayed pivotal for Croatia producing 26 points and 10 rebounds.
Turkey stunned Croatia in the first quarter. Turkey went on a 19:11 run to surge ahead. Croatia stopped the bleeding in the second quarter. They narrowed the deficit to get within 4 points at halftime 29:33. Croatia held Turkey to just 9 points in the third stanza to spur ahead for a 46:42 lead at the final break. Croatia unleashed 32 points in the fourth quarter to claim another comfortable win at the end. Jakov Mustapic (193-G-94) posted 16 points, while Mislav Brzoja (196-F/G-94) contributed 14 points in the winning effort. Burak Yildizli (202-PF-94) answered with 15 points for Turkey. Cedi Osman (195-SG-95) and Kenan Sipahi (198-PG-95) chipped in 11 points apiece in defeat.

Croatia U18: Dario Saric 26+10 boards, Jakov Mustapic 16, Mislav Brzoja 14
Turkey U18: Burak Yildizli 15, Cedi Osman 11, Kenan Sipahi 11


Cedevita confirms signing of Luka Babic until 2016 - by Eurobasket News

Cedevita officially announced signing of 4-year year deal with Croatian prospect Luka Babic (200-F-91, agency: Beo Basket). It means they will stay together until the end of 2015/16 season. Babic is a product of Split, where he spent last several years. The player had 9.1 ppg, 3.8 rpg and 1.5 apg for 36 games in A1 last season. He was named Eurobasket.com All-Croatian A1 League Most Improved Player -12. In 2010/11, Babic registered 5.5 ppg and 3.4 rpg for 32 appearances. In the past, he played for Split juniors. Last summer Luka Babic had 5.6 ppg and 4.1 rpg for 9 games at U20 EuroBasket in Bilbao. In 2009, he played for Croatian U19 and U18 National Teams. He helped U19 NT to win the Bronze at U19 World Championship in New Zealand. At this event Babic averaged 3.1 points and 1.8 rebounds.


Franko Filipovic signs in Romania - by Eurobasket News

Franko Filipovic (203-F-87, agency: Kotnik Sports Agency) will play next season in Romania. The Croatian forward signed a deal with Perla Harghitei Miercurea Ciuc. The player spent 2011/12 with A2 team Srkljevo. Before that, Filipovic spent one year with Kvarner Rijeka averaging 10.2 points and 4.1 rebounds for 23 games in A1. From 2006 to 2009, Filipovic played for Cedevita Zagreb. He had 7.4 ppg and 2.7 rpg for them in 28 Croatian league games in their second season together. In 2008/09, the player appeared only 5 times for the club. In the past, Franko Filipovic spent one season with Borik Puntamika Zadar and one with Orok Ugljan (A1). In 2008, he was a member of Croatian B National Team. He also successfully played for Croatian youth selections from 2002 to 2007.


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  CZECH REPUBLIC   


U18 European Championship: Czech Republic beat Estonia, both advance to the Second Stage - by Eurobasket News

Estonia U18-Czech Republic U18 70:95

Czech Republic beat Estonia, while both teams advance to the Second Stage of the U18 European Championship in Division B. Czech Republic won Group B with 4-0 record after 95:70 win. Estonia meanwhile suffered their first loss and dropped at 3-1 record.
It was the game for the top position from the group. Czech Republic started to ruin the opponents defense from the first minutes and reached 28:17 after the first period. They added 28-18 in the second frame for 56:35 with Petr Herman (204-PF-94)s last shot in the half. Moreover Czech Republic produced two narrow victories in the second half for the final win.
Karel Ausprunk (200-F/C-94) top-scored for the winners with 22 points and Radovan Kouril (180-PG-95) nailed 17. Petr Herman collected 13 points and 10 rebounds, while Jan Svandrlik (196-SF-94) added 11. Martin Jurtom (198-PF-94) poured in 19 in defeat and Georg Tambre (194-PF-94) scored 11.

Estonia U18: Martin Jurtom 19, Georg Tambre 11
Czech Republic U18: Karel Ausprunk 22, Radovan Kouril 17, Petr Herman 13+10 rebs, Jan Svandrlik 11


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  DENMARK   

Stats Leaders - Basketligaen

Points Per Game
 Ryan WHITE
  Aalborg
  (177-PG-88)
  Avg: 24.9
 1. White, Aalborg24.9 
 2. Harris, Horsens IC24.6 
 3. Henry, Naestved22.1 
 4. Alexander, Bakken21.6 
 5. Rutherford, SISU21.0 
 6. Curry, Aarhus BC20.7 
 7. Bishop, Aalborg19.0 
 8. Rasmussen, Vaerl.18.8 
 9. Sprinker, Vaerlose17.3 
 10. Delk, Vaerlose16.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 D''Mario CURRY
  Aarhus BC
  (201-G/F-85)
  Avg: 11.6
 1. Curry, Aarhus BC11.6 
 2. Bishop, Aalborg11.3 
 3. Glynn, Naestved10.4 
 4. St.John, Horsens10.2 
 5. Vinson, Svendborg8.9 
 6. Phillips, Aarhus BC8.6 
 7. Osgood-R., Vaerlose8.4 
 8. Benjamin, Horsholm8.3 
 9. Ba, Falcon8.2 
 10. Rutherford, SISU8.0 
Assists Per Game
 Davor SATTLER
  Horsens IC
  (185-G-86)
  Avg: 5.4
 1. Sattler, Horsens IC5.4 
 2. Henry, Naestved5.1 
 3. White, Aalborg4.9 
 4. Colman, Svendborg4.6 
 5. Delk, Vaerlose4.6 
 6. McFarlane, Falcon3.9 
 7. Fields, Falcon3.9 
 8. Nielsen, SISU3.6 
 9. Darboe, Svendborg3.5 
 10. Curry, Aarhus BC3.5 
Steals Per Game
 Corin HENRY
  Naestved
  (180-PG-88)
  Avg: 3.4
 1. Henry, Naestved3.4 
 2. Wire, Vaerlose2.9 
 3. White, Aalborg2.8 
 4. Dennis, SISU2.6 
 5. Bishop, Aalborg2.3 
 6. Fields, Falcon2.1 
 7. Sattler, Horsens IC2.0 
 8. Nielsen, SISU1.9 
 9. Alexander, Bakken1.8 
 10. Curry, Aarhus BC1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Bonell COLAS
  Horsholm
  (205-F-82)
  Avg: 1.7
 1. Colas, Horsholm1.7 
 2. Curry, Aarhus BC1.7 
 3. Phillips, Aarhus BC1.6 
 4. Bishop, Aalborg1.6 
 5. Christoffers., Bak.1.6 
 6. Vinson, Svendborg1.3 
 7. Sprinker, Vaerlose1.2 
 8. Marinkovic, Horsho.1.1 
 9. Johansen, Naestved0.9 
 10. Eleraky, Aalborg0.9 


U18 European Championship: France defeat Denmark - by Eurobasket News

France U18 - Denmark U18 67:61

France recorded the first win at the classification round of U18 European Championship. They defeated Denmark to improve at 1-0 record in Group G. Benjamin Sene (186-PG-94) stepped up with 14 points to pace the winners.
Denmark surged ahead early in the game. They recorded a 24:14 lead ten minutes into the game. But France stopped the rot in the second term. Les Bleus got within 5 points at halftime 33:38. France held their opponents to 7 points in the third quarter to take a 4-point lead heading into the final frame. Denmark regained the lead midway through the final frame 59:57. But France immediately reacted with a 6:0 run to take the lead back. Dallo and Mouhammadou Jaiteh (206-C-94) scored three points in the dying seconds to seal the victory Mouhammadou Jaiteh provided 13 points and 9 rebounds, while Alexandre Chassang (203-PF-94) added 10 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. Rasmus Larsen (212-C-94) responded with 22 points and 10 rebounds for Denmark. Kristoffer Gertz (193-G-94) had 12 points in the loss.

France U18: Benjamin Sene 14, Mouhammadou Jaiteh 13, Alexandre Chassang 10+11 boards
Denmark U18: Rasmus Larsen 22+10 boards, Kristoffer Gertz 12


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  D-LEAGUE   


Attend the Atlanta ESL if you are still looking for a job playing professional basketball! - by Eurobasket

The last exposure ESL is September 14th, 15th and 16th at the All-Tournament Players Park in Marietta, Georgia and you do not want to miss it, especially if you have been having a hard time finding the right basketball job out there. If you are a basketball player looking to play basketball professionally then you do not want to miss out on the last eurobasket summer league of the summer. Eurobasket is the wall street journal of the basketball world and has the largest database of teams, coaches, players and agents. Eurobasket is the most powerful on-line media tool for the global basketball market as 1.2 million basketball related users frequent the site on a monthly basis. www.eurobasket.com dedicates front page priority coverage of the ESL leagues, standings, statistics, game reports and all tournament teams. Over 500 players who have attended the ESL events the past four years are currently playing professionally in seventy (70) different leagues globally. Please click the following link to verify the former ESL players and their current league. The ESL only features quality players with either professional experience or former NCAA players who have had very successful college careers. So, its a no brainer if you are trying to be a professional basketball player that you attend the Atlanta ESL.


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  DOMINICAN REPUBLIC   

Standings - District National

LNB Standings
North Division
 1. Indios SF 8-3 
 2. Metros 6-5 
 3. Huracanes 6-5 
 4. Reales 4-8 
South Division
 1. Caneros 6-5 
 2. Titanes 6-6 
 3. Leones SD 5-6 
 4. Cocolos 4-7 

Regular Season: Round 9

Aug. 10: Caneros - Reales 99-101
Aug. 10: Indios SF - Leones SD 93-83
Aug. 12: Leones SD - Metros 87-82
Aug. 11: Titanes - Huracanes 87-76
Aug. 12: Reales - Titanes 74-88
Aug. 11: Metros - Cocolos 102-86

Regular Season: Round 10

Aug. 13: Cocolos - Indios SF
Aug. 13: Huracanes - Caneros
Aug. 14: Reales - Leones SD
Aug. 14: Titanes - Metros


LNB: Indios SF jump to 8-3 in Division North - by Eurobasket News

Round 9 of the LNB is completed last night and game results will be available soon. On Friday, Indios SF handed 93-83 loss to Leones SD staying on top of Division North. Thanks to this victory Indios SF improved their record to 8-3, while Leones dropped to 4-6. Indios took control on its rival in third quarter (26-10) and managed to keep the lead for rest of the way. Joel Jones (196-G/F-81, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Sacramento St.) led the winners with 21 points and 6 rebounds. Reggie Charles (201-F-81) and Robert Glenn (201-F/C-89, college: IUPUI) helped with 17 and 15 points respectively. In the loosing squad, Kentrell Gransberry (206-C-85, college: S.Florida) answered with double-double of 20 points and 14 rebs.
Also in Friday, Reales grabbed 101-99 victory against Caneros. On Saturday, Titanes outplayed Huracanes 87-76 and Metros handed 102-86 loss to Cocolos. Last night, Reales met Titanes and Leones played against Metros. Below is the standings after incomplete round 9.

North Division
1. Indios SF 8-3
2. Metros 6-4
3. Huracanes 6-5
4. Reales 4-7

South Division
1. Caneros 6-5
2. Titanes 5-6
3. Leones SD 4-6
4. Cocolos 4-7


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  ESTONIA   


U18 European Championship: Czech Republic beat Estonia, both advance to the Second Stage - by Eurobasket News

Estonia U18-Czech Republic U18 70:95

Czech Republic beat Estonia, while both teams advance to the Second Stage of the U18 European Championship in Division B. Czech Republic won Group B with 4-0 record after 95:70 win. Estonia meanwhile suffered their first loss and dropped at 3-1 record.
It was the game for the top position from the group. Czech Republic started to ruin the opponents defense from the first minutes and reached 28:17 after the first period. They added 28-18 in the second frame for 56:35 with Petr Herman (204-PF-94)s last shot in the half. Moreover Czech Republic produced two narrow victories in the second half for the final win.
Karel Ausprunk (200-F/C-94) top-scored for the winners with 22 points and Radovan Kouril (180-PG-95) nailed 17. Petr Herman collected 13 points and 10 rebounds, while Jan Svandrlik (196-SF-94) added 11. Martin Jurtom (198-PF-94) poured in 19 in defeat and Georg Tambre (194-PF-94) scored 11.

Estonia U18: Martin Jurtom 19, Georg Tambre 11
Czech Republic U18: Karel Ausprunk 22, Radovan Kouril 17, Petr Herman 13+10 rebs, Jan Svandrlik 11


*****************************************************
  EUROBASKET SUMMER LEAGUE   


Attend the Atlanta ESL if you are still looking for a job playing professional basketball! - by ESL News

The last exposure ESL is September 14th, 15th and 16th at the All-Tournament Players Park in Marietta, Georgia and you do not want to miss it, especially if you have been having a hard time finding the right basketball job out there. If you are a basketball player looking to play basketball professionally then you do not want to miss out on the last eurobasket summer league of the summer. Eurobasket is the wall street journal of the basketball world and has the largest database of teams, coaches, players and agents. Eurobasket is the most powerful on-line media tool for the global basketball market as 1.2 million basketball related users frequent the site on a monthly basis. www.eurobasket.com dedicates front page priority coverage of the ESL leagues, standings, statistics, game reports and all tournament teams. Over 500 players who have attended the ESL events the past four years are currently playing professionally in seventy (70) different leagues globally. Please click the following link to verify the former ESL players and their current league. The ESL only features quality players with either professional experience or former NCAA players who have had very successful college careers. So, its a no brainer if you are trying to be a professional basketball player that you attend the Atlanta ESL.


*****************************************************
  EUROCHALLENGE   


Andrew Albicy signs 2-year deal with Paris-Levallois - by Eurobasket News

Andrew Albicy (178-PG-90) is back to Paris-Levallois. The French point guard signed a 2-year deal with his former team. Albicy spent last season with Gravelines averaging 11.3 points, 3.9 assists, 2.4 steals and 2.2 rebounds for 30 games in ProA. They were regular season champions, but later they failed against Cholet in the Playoff Quarterfinals. Andrew Albicy is a product of Paris Basket Racing (now Paris-Levallois), where he played until the last summer. In 2010/11 season the player had 11.1 ppg, 4.5 apg and 1.8 rpg for 30 games in ProA. A year before that his numbers were lower. Andrew Albicy played for the French National Team at 2011 EuroBasket in Lithuania. He had 1.6 ppg for 7 games. Albicy also played at 2010 World Championship in Turkey. In the past, he shined with French youth National Teams. Three years ago Albicy led U20 France to gold medal in Croatia and was named Eurobasket.com All-European Championships U20 MVP -10.


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


Attend the Atlanta ESL if you are still looking for a job playing professional basketball ! - by Eurobasket

The last exposure ESL is September 14th, 15th and 16th at the All-Tournament Players Park in Marietta, Georgia and you do not want to miss it, especially if you have been having a hard time finding the right basketball job out there. If you are a basketball player looking to play basketball professionally then you do not want to miss out on the last eurobasket summer league of the summer. Eurobasket is the wall street journal of the basketball world and has the largest database of teams, coaches, players and agents. Eurobasket is the most powerful on-line media tool for the global basketball market as 1.2 million basketball related users frequent the site on a monthly basis. www.eurobasket.com dedicates front page priority coverage of the ESL leagues, standings, statistics, game reports and all tournament teams. Over 500 players who have attended the ESL events the past four years are currently playing professionally in seventy (70) different leagues globally. Please click the following link to verify the former ESL players and their current league. The ESL only features quality players with either professional experience or former NCAA players who have had very successful college careers. So, its a no brainer if you are trying to be a professional basketball player that you attend the Atlanta ESL.


Greens officially sign Giannopoulos Haralampos to 1+1 year deal - by Eurobasket News

Haralampos Giannopoulos (206-F-89, agency: FCM) officially became a new member of Panathinaikos Athens. The Greek forward signed a 1+1 year deal with the club. Haralampos was named Eurobasket.com All-Greek A1 League Co-Most Improved Player of the Year -12. He had 12.4 ppg, 5.3 rpg and 1.9 apg in 24 games with Peristeri. From 2009 until the last summer the forward played for Panionios. There he had 3.5 ppg and 1.4 rpg for 22 games in their second season together. In 2009/10, the player had almost the same numbers. Haralampos Giannopoulos was a member of Olympiakos in 2008/09, but he mostly played for their junior team. In the past, he spent few years with PAOK Thessaloniki. Haralampos Giannopoulos very successfully played for Greek youth National Teams from 2005 to 2009. He led U20 Greece to gold medal at U20 EuroBasket in Rhodes three years ago. With U18 NT, Haralampos won the silver medal at U18 EuroBasket in Madrid (2007).


Cedevita confirms signing of Luka Babic until 2016 - by Eurobasket News

Cedevita officially announced signing of 4-year year deal with Croatian prospect Luka Babic (200-F-91, agency: Beo Basket). It means they will stay together until the end of 2015/16 season. Babic is a product of Split, where he spent last several years. The player had 9.1 ppg, 3.8 rpg and 1.5 apg for 36 games in A1 last season. He was named Eurobasket.com All-Croatian A1 League Most Improved Player -12. In 2010/11, Babic registered 5.5 ppg and 3.4 rpg for 32 appearances. In the past, he played for Split juniors. Last summer Luka Babic had 5.6 ppg and 4.1 rpg for 9 games at U20 EuroBasket in Bilbao. In 2009, he played for Croatian U19 and U18 National Teams. He helped U19 NT to win the Bronze at U19 World Championship in New Zealand. At this event Babic averaged 3.1 points and 1.8 rebounds.


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  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U18   

Standings Division A

Standings
Group E
1. Lithuania3-0
2. Spain3-0
3. Serbia2-1
4. Italy1-2
5. Greece0-3
6. Ukraine0-3
Group F
1. Croatia3-0
2. Latvia2-1
3. Bulgaria2-1
4. Russia1-2
5. Slovenia1-2
6. Turkey0-3
Group G
1. France1-0
2. Germany1-0
3. Poland0-1
4. Denmark0-1

Qualifying Round: Round 4

E

Aug. 13: ITA - SRB 74-78
Aug. 13: LTU - UKR 74-50
Aug. 13: GRE - ESP 52-65

F

Aug. 13: SLO - BUL 84-81
Aug. 13: CRO - TUR 78-62
Aug. 13: RUS - LAT 64-70

G

Aug. 13: GER - POL 64-54
Aug. 13: DEN - FRA 61-67

Qualifying Round: Round 5

E

Aug. 14: UKR - GRE
Aug. 14: SRB - LTU
Aug. 14: ESP - ITA

F

Aug. 14: BUL - RUS
Aug. 14: LAT - CRO
Aug. 14: TUR - SLO

G

Aug. 14: FRA - GER
Aug. 14: POL - DEN


Stats Leaders Div. A

Points Per Game
 Dario SARIC
  CRO
  (208-F-94)
  Avg: 28.5
 1. Saric, CRO28.5 
 2. Vezenkov, BUL23.5 
 3. Tamulis, LTU19.0 
 4. Rebec, SLO17.8 
 5. Brzoja, CRO17.8 
 6. Larsen, DEN17.0 
 7. Kulagin, RUS16.8 
 8. Agravanis, GRE16.5 
 9. Radicevic, SRB16.5 
 10. Sene, FRA16.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Mouhammadou JAITEH
  (206-C-94)
  Avg: 10.8
 1. Jaiteh, FRA10.8 
 2. Krestininas, LTU10.3 
 3. Saric, CRO9.0 
 4. Gromovs, LAT8.5 
 5. Agravanis, GRE8.5 
 6. Ristic, SRB8.5 
 7. Borowski, POL8.0 
 8. Diop, ESP8.0 
 9. Hernangomez, ESP8.0 
 10. Chassang, FRA7.5 
Assists Per Game
 Deyan KARAMFILOV
  (180-PG-94)
  Avg: 7.3
 1. Karamfilov, BUL7.3 
 2. Rebec, SLO5.8 
 3. Perez, ESP5.3 
 4. Schenk, POL4.8 
 5. Annaev, RUS4.8 
 6. Radicevic, SRB4.0 
 7. Mavra, CRO4.0 
 8. Sene, FRA3.8 
 9. Sipahi, TUR3.8 
 10. Boyarkin, UKR3.8 
Steals Per Game
 Gregor HROVAT
  (196-G-94)
  Avg: 3.3
 1. Hrovat, SLO3.3 
 2. Mustapic, CRO2.8 
 3. Vezenkov, BUL2.8 
 4. Kudrya, UKR2.5 
 5. Annaev, RUS2.5 
 6. Lebo, CRO2.3 
 7. Brzoja, CRO2.0 
 8. Witlinski, POL2.0 
 9. Moendadze, FRA2.0 
 10. Mavra, CRO2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Ilja GROMOVS
  (207-C-94)
  Avg: 3.3
 1. Gromovs, LAT3.3 
 2. Tessitori, ITA2.8 
 3. Saric, CRO2.0 
 4. Ristic, SRB1.8 
 5. Diop, ESP1.8 
 6. Krestininas, LTU1.8 
 7. Kanygin, RUS1.8 
 8. Chassang, FRA1.5 
 9. Agravanis, GRE1.5 
 10. Zagreba, UKR1.3 


M-Standings - Group B

Standings Div.B
Group A
1. U.Kingdom5-0
2. Israel4-1
3. Hungary3-2
4. Romania2-3
5. Belarus1-4
6. Scotland0-5
Group B
1. Czech Rep.4-0
2. Estonia3-1
3. Austria2-2
4. Slovakia1-3
5. Luxembourg.0-4
Group C
1. Finland4-1
2. Montenegro.4-1
3. Iceland3-2
4. Sweden3-2
5. Norway1-4
6. Switzerlan.0-5
Group D
1. Bosnia4-0
2. Belgium2-2
3. Holland2-2
4. Portugal2-2
5. Georgia0-4

Preliminary Round: Round 5

A

Aug. 13: ENG - SCO 95-39
Aug. 13: BLR - HUN 83-84
Aug. 13: ISR - ROM 100-50

B

Aug. 13: EST - CZE 70-95
Aug. 13: LUX - SVK 63-70

C

Aug. 13: NOR - SUI 91-75
Aug. 13: MNT - SWE 82-71
Aug. 13: ISL - FIN 78-86

D

Aug. 13: POR - GEO 81-59
Aug. 13: BEL - NED 74-79

Second Stage: Round 6

E

Aug. 15: ISR - CZE
Aug. 15: ENG - EST

F

Aug. 15: MNT - BEL
Aug. 15: FIN - BIH

G

Aug. 15: ROM - AUT
Aug. 15: HUN - SVK

H

Aug. 15: SWE - POR
Aug. 15: ISL - NED

I

Aug. 15: SCO - LUX

J

Aug. 15: SUI - GEO


Stats Leader

Points Per Game
 Jusuf NURKIC
  BIH
  (212-C-94)
  Avg: 21
 1. Nurkic, BIH21.0 
 2. Hermannsson, ISL20.0 
 3. Ausprunk, CZE19.5 
 4. Schilder, NED19.5 
 5. Koulechov, ISR17.6 
 6. Blatancic, NOR17.2 
 7. Lehtoranta, FIN16.6 
 8. Burjanadze, GEO16.3 
 9. Poltl, AUT16.3 
 10. Kouril, CZE16.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jakob POELTL
  (208-PF-95)
  Avg: 13.8
 1. Poltl, AUT13.8 
 2. Burjanadze, GEO13.5 
 3. Nurkic, BIH13.5 
 4. Brodziansky, SVK11.5 
 5. Ausprunk, CZE10.3 
 6. Lepovic, NOR10.0 
 7. Spires, SWE9.8 
 8. Okoroh, ENG9.8 
 9. Wolff, LUX9.3 
 10. Kok, NED8.8 
Assists Per Game
 Radovan KOURIL
  CZE
  (180-PG-95)
  Avg: 8.5
 1. Kouril, CZE8.5 
 2. Vrbica, MNT6.2 
 3. Perl, HUN5.2 
 4. Sharon, ISR4.8 
 5. Saare, EST4.5 
 6. Nemcok, SVK4.3 
 7. Vrabac, BIH3.8 
 8. Fridriksson, ISL3.6 
 9. Mattila, FIN3.6 
 10. Valsson, ISL3.6 
Steals Per Game
 Sander SAARE
  (182-PG-94)
  Avg: 3
 1. Saare, EST3.0 
 2. Koulechov, ISR2.8 
 3. Rozim, SVK2.8 
 4. Valsson, ISL2.6 
 5. Mattila, FIN2.4 
 6. Andjelkovic, SUI2.4 
 7. Varadi, HUN2.4 
 8. Schilder, NED2.3 
 9. Graham, ENG2.2 
 10. Vrbica, MNT2.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Jito KOK
  NED
  (205-C-94)
  Avg: 3.3
 1. Kok, NED3.3 
 2. Okoroh, ENG2.6 
 3. Brodziansky, SVK2.5 
 4. Spires, SWE2.2 
 5. Ausprunk, CZE2.0 
 6. Rajala, FIN1.8 
 7. Bliznets, BLR1.6 
 8. Poltl, AUT1.5 
 9. Ilyukevich, BLR1.4 
 10. Mikovic, MNT1.4 


The End of Preliminary Round in Sarajevo - by Eurobasket News

Group A
United Kingdom - Scotland 95-39
England wins Group A of the U18 European Championship in Division B. The team overcame Scotland 95:39 for 5-0 record on top. Scotland meanwhile finished the group without victories. England was the favorite before the game and proved their ambitions throughout it. They started the game with 28-5 and added 20-10 in the second half when Stivrins and Rowan exchanged the late baskets. England was better also in the third frame with 21-15 surge. Moreover they won the last stanza 26-9 for a comfortable win. Sentance Elliott paced all the winners with 16 points and Okros Tamas as well as Dwayne Orija (193-SG-95) poured in 12 apiece. Rowell Graham (197-F-94) followed them with 10 points in a win. Joshua McGilvray (201-C-95) finished the game with 12 points in defeat and Matthew Wilcox (196-PF-94) had 7.

Israel - Romania 100-50
Israel clinch Elite Eight appearance of the U18 European Championship in Division B. The team finished second in Group A with 4-1 record after a 100-50 win. Romania meanwhile fell at 2-3 record. Israel dominated the court for the whole time and rightfully clinched the victory. They won the first period 29-7 and added 23-15 in the second period. Moreover Israel produced a 24-16 in the third stanza and finished the game with 24-12 in the last quarter. Geffen gave his team three-digit number at the end of the game. Egor Koulechov (194-SF-94) paced all the winners with 16 points and Rafael Menco (201-SF-94, agency: Avi Zilberman) posted 13. Kikus Maxim delivered 12, while Yariv Amiram (203-PF-94) netted 11. Mehmet Hortoglu (192-SG-95) answered with 12 points in the losing effort, whilst Mirel Dragoste (180-PG-95) and Cobzaru Vlad brought 9 apiece.

Belarus - Hungary 83-84
Hungary stole a win from Belarus in the start of Day 5 at the U18 European Championship in Division B. Hungary won 84:83 to finish the group with 3-2 record. Belarus meanwhile fell at 1-4 record on the fifth place. Both teams nailed 22 points in the first period and the game was expected a tough one. Hungary won the second period 25-15 and enjoyed however 10-point halftime advantage. Belarus meanwhile produced two victories in the second half and took 83:82 lead after Luka Malakhau's shot. Zoltan Perl (194-G-95) however scored two free throws for the final success. Zoltan Perl top-scored for the winners with 18 points and Benedek Varadi notched 17. Janos Velkey (193-G-95) delivered 15, while Kristof Bognar brought 12. Luka Malakhau ended up with 28 points in the losing effort. Yahor Patupchyk (191-SG-94) added 18 and Anton Vashkevich (203-F/C-94) scored 13.

Group B
Luxembourg - Slovakia 63-70
Slovak Republic taste the initial win at the U18 European Championship in Division B. The team finished Group B with 1-3 record after a 70:63 win over Luxembourg. The latter remained don the last spot with 0-4 record. It was Luxembourg to start with 21-17 in the first period. Slovakia meanwhile answered with massive 26-13 burst in the second frame and Matejcik Martin scored for 43:34 at the halftime. No matter how hard Luxembourg tried to recover they could not win the game. Luxembourg produced 16-14 in the third period and then scored the same number of points as Slovakia in the last stanza. Vladimir Brodziansky (206-PF-94) top-scored for the winners with 14 points and 18 rebounds, while Matejcik Martin and Vladimir Nemcok (183-PG-95) also scored 14 each. Robert Rozim (199-F-94) followed them with 13 points and 11 rebounds. Thomas Grun (194-PG-95) replied with 24 points in defeat and Hoeser Jo had 16.

Estonia - Czech Republic 70-95
Czech Republic beat Estonia, while both teams advance to the Second Stage of the U18 European Championship in Division B. Czech Republic won Group B with 4-0 record after 95:70 win. Estonia meanwhile suffered their first loss and dropped at 3-1 record. It was the game for the top position from the group. Czech Republic started to ruin the opponents' defense from the first minutes and reached 28:17 after the first period. They added 28-18 in the second frame for 56:35 with Herman Petr's last shot in the half. Moreover Czech Republic produced two narrow victories in the second half for the final win. Karel Ausprunk (200-F/C-94) top-scored for the winners with 22 points and Kouril Radovan nailed 17. Herman Petr collected 13 points and 10 rebounds, while Jan Svandrlik (196-SF-94) added 11. Jurtom Martin poured in 19 in defeat and Tambre Georg scored 11.

Group D
Belgium - Holland 74-79
Belgium advanced to the next stage despite the loss from Holland at the U18 European Championship in Division B. The latter won 79:74 but finished third with 2-2 record. Belgium as well as Portugal ended up with the same record, but Belgium advanced to Elite Eight with the better difference. Belgium won the first period 19-17, but Holland grabbed 33:32 lead at the halftime. Moreover Holland was one step from the Second stage after 27-9 in the third period, but failed at the end of the game. Belgium erupted with 33-19 in the last stanza and advanced to the next stage. Mathias Van Steenwinkel (200-F-94) led the way with 17 points and Lecomte Emmanuel netted 11. Naim El Khounchar (193-G-94) and Gijbels Mathijs posted 10 points each. Kok Jito answered with 23 points and 11 rebounds in defeat, whilst Schilder Mike added 19. Hammink Shane poured in 18 and Versteeg Floris notched 6.

Portugal - Georgia 81-59
Portugal edge Georgia in Sarajevo at the U18 European Championship in Division B. Portugal won 81:59 and finished fourth with 2-2 record in Group D. Georgia meanwhile lost all four games and finished on the last spot. Portugal erupted with 27-12 in the first period and never looked behind after. They produced 21-15 in the second frame and enjoyed 48:27 lead after two quarters. In the second half the teams exchanged narrow wins for the final victory of the Portuguese team. Marques Pedro top-scored for the winners with 19 points and Insaly Isaias added 16 points and 11 caroms. Pedro Bastos (186-PG-94) finished the game with 15 points and Ventura Diogo nailed 8. Burjanadze Beka ended up with 20 points and 14 rebounds in the losing case, whilst Nugzar Abuladze (182-G-95) netted 12. Nika Ramishvili (179-SG-94) delivered 10 and Tsirekidze Giorgi notched 8.


The Start of Second Stage in Latvia and Lithuania - by Eurobasket News

Group E
Lithuania - Ukraine 74-50
Lithuania registered the fourth straight win at the U18 European championship. The hosts fired past Ukraine for the opening win at the Second Stage of the tournament. Lithuania thus improved at 3-0 record on top of Group E. Ukraine slipped at 0-3 record. Ukraine led by a single point ten minutes into the game 16:15. But Lithuania shook off sloppiness and surged ahead in the second quarter. The Baltic team posted a 35:28 halftime advantage. Lithuania stretched the lead to as many as 25 points at the final intermission. Ukraine cut the deficit by one point in the final frame before losing the encounter. Augustinas Jankaitis (202-C-94) posted 20 points, while Marius Grigonis (198-F-94) added 19 points in the victory. Vladyslav Koreniuk (206-C-94) and Yevgen Sakhniuk (201-PF-95) netted 12 points each for Ukraine. Boyarkin provided 10 points in the loss.

Italy - Serbia 74-78
Serbia registered the first win at the Second Stage of U18 European Championship. They defeated Italy for 2-1 record in Group E. Nikola Radicevic (194-G-94) came up with 24 points to lead the winners. Italy slipped at 1-2 record after the loss. Serbia jumped to an early lead. They eked out a 19:17 advantage ten minutes into the game. The Balkan team stretched the lead in the second quarter. They ensured a 40:33 halftime advantage. Serbia boosted the gap even more in the third term. They piled up a 62:47 advantage with one period remaining. Italy however refused to surrender. They cut the deficit to just two points with 15 seconds remaining 74:76. However Nikola Radicevic sank two free throws to seal the victory for Serbia. Nikola Jankovic (205-PF-94) tallied 14 points and 12 boards for the winners. Luka Andusic and Nikola Cvorovic had 10 points each for Serbia. Tommaso Laquintana (187-PG-95) answered with 15 points and 12 rebounds for Italy. Fontecchio netted 12 points, while Amedeo Tessitori provided 13 points and 10 rebounds in the loss.

Greece - Spain 52-65
Spain recorded the fourth straight win at the U18 European Championship. They defeated Greece at the start of the Second Stage. Oriol Pauli (201-G-94) scored 15 points to lead the winners. Greece fell at 0-3 record in Group E after the loss. The Hellenes got to the better start. They ensured a 12:11 lead ten minutes into the game. Spain denied the deficit in the second quarter. The reigning champions eked out a 28:27 halftime lead. Spain stretched the lead in the third quarter. They secured a 3-point lead at the final intermission 45:42. Spain cleared off in the fourth stanza. They held Greece to 10 points and rallied to a comfortable victory at the end. Juan Saiz (204-PF-94) finished with 11 points, while Ilimane Diop added 10 points for the winners. Dimitrios Agravanis (208-F-94, agency: FCM) answered with 13 points for Greece. Alexandros Mitsialos netted 9 points in the loss.

Group F
Croatia - Turkey 78-62
Croatia recorded the fourth straight win at the U18 European Championship. They defeated Turkey at the start of the Second Stage of the tournament. Croatia improved at 3-0 record on top of Group F. Dario Saric (208-F-94) stayed pivotal for Croatia producing 26 points and 10 rebounds. Turkey stunned Croatia in the first quarter. Turkey went on a 19:11 run to surge ahead. Croatia stopped the bleeding in the second quarter. They narrowed the deficit to get within 4 points at halftime 29:33. Croatia held Turkey to just 9 points in the third stanza to spur ahead for a 46:42 lead at the final break. Croatia unleashed 32 points in the fourth quarter to claim another comfortable win at the end. Jakov Mustapic (193-G-94) posted 16 points, while Mislav Brzoja contributed 14 points in the winning effort. Burak Yildizli (202-PF-94) answered with 15 points for Turkey. Cedi Osman and Kenan Sipahi chipped in 11 points apiece in defeat.

Slovenia - Bulgaria 84-81
Slovenia registered the first win at the Second Stage of U18 European Championship. They overcame Bulgaria to improve at 1-2 record in Group F. Bulgaria in the meantime slipped at 2-1 record. Gregor Hrovat (196-G-94) scored 27 points to lead the winners. Slovenia led by just a single point 24:23 after ten minutes. Bulgaria erased the deficit and pulled ahead for a 44:42 halftime lead. Bulgaria drew things level after the third term. The teams entered the final stanza tied at 55. But Slovenia exploded with 29 points in the fourth quarter and sealed the victory at the end. Matic Rebec (180-PG-95) provided 19 points, while Aleksej Nikolic contributed 15 points for the winners. Aleksandar Vezenkov (205-SF-95) answered with 31 points for Bulgaria. Nikolay Stoyanov notched 19 points in the loss.

Russia - Latvia 64-70
Latvia celebrated the third win at the U18 European Championship. The hosts held off Russian counterparts in Liepaja. Ilja Gromovs (207-C-94) scored 11 points and grabbed 8 rebounds to pace the winners. Russia led by a single point after ten minutes of action 17:16. They stretched the lead in the second quarter. Russia arrived at halftime up by 3 points 33:30. But Latvia turned things around right after the big break. The hosts erupted for 27 points in the third term to surge ahead for a 9-point lead 57:48. Russia tried to bounce back as they trimmed the deficit to three points 63:66 with under a minute remaining. But Armands Ginters and Geks converted four free throws to seal the victory for Latvia. Rihards Adins (203-F/C-94) posted 10 points, while Armands Ginters finished with 9 points for the winners. Mikhail Kulagin (188-G-94) answered with 14 points for Russia. Rostislav Karenin and Serdar Annaev accounted for 10 points each in the loss.

Group G
Denmark - France 61-67
France recorded the first win at the classification round of U18 European Championship. They defeated Denmark to improve at 1-0 record in Group G. Benjamin Sene (186-PG-94) stepped up with 14 points to pace the winners. Denmark surged ahead early in the game. They recorded a 24:14 lead ten minutes into the game. But France stopped the rot in the second term. Les Bleus got within 5 points at halftime 33:38. France held their opponents to 7 points in the third quarter to take a 4-point lead heading into the final frame. Denmark regained the lead midway through the final frame 59:57. But France immediately reacted with a 6:0 run to take the lead back. Dallo and Mouhammadou Jaiteh (206-C-94) scored three points in the dying seconds to seal the victory Mouhammadou Jaiteh provided 13 points and 9 rebounds, while Alexandre Chassang added 10 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. Rasmus Larsen (212-C-94) responded with 22 points and 10 rebounds for Denmark. Kristoffer Gertz had 12 points in the loss.

Germany - Poland 64-54
Germany registered the first win at the U18 European Championship. They knocked down Poland to improve at 1-0 record in classification round Group G. Malik Mueller (188-G-94) scored 11 points to lead the winners. Germany started the game strongly. They secured a 23:14 lead after ten minutes of action. Poland stopped the rot in the second term. They narrowed the deficit and arrived at halftime trailing by just 3 points 34:37. Poland held Germany to only 5 points in the third quarter and surged ahead for a 44:42 lead. But Germany went on a decisive 22:10 run in the final stanza and snatched a tough win at the end. Dominic Lockhart (197-F-94) produced 10 points, while Johannes Thiemann had 9 points for the winners. Jakub Garbacz (196-SF-94) answered with 14 points for Poland. Damian Jeszke netted 8 points in the loss.


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


Poitiers to sign Anthony Smith - by Eurobasket News

Anthony Smith (196-G-86, college: Liberty) will play next season in France. The American guard agreed a deal with Poitiers. Smith arrives to the club from Eisbaeren Bremerhaven, where he spent last season. He appeared 34 times in German league averaging 11.8 points, 3.3 rebounds and 1.7 assists. Season 2010/11, Anthony Smith spent with LTi Giessen 46ers. He played 28 games for them collecting 11.3 ppg and 3.3 rpg. Before Giessen, the guard played one season for Cornella. They competed in Spanish LEB Gold, where Smith shined with 14.3 ppg, 3.6 rpg and 2.4 apg for 33 games. It was his first year as a pro. Anthony Smith is a product of Liberty University, where he graduated in 2009.


U18 European Championship: France defeat Denmark - by Eurobasket News

France U18 - Denmark U18 67:61

France recorded the first win at the classification round of U18 European Championship. They defeated Denmark to improve at 1-0 record in Group G. Benjamin Sene (186-PG-94) stepped up with 14 points to pace the winners.
Denmark surged ahead early in the game. They recorded a 24:14 lead ten minutes into the game. But France stopped the rot in the second term. Les Bleus got within 5 points at halftime 33:38. France held their opponents to 7 points in the third quarter to take a 4-point lead heading into the final frame. Denmark regained the lead midway through the final frame 59:57. But France immediately reacted with a 6:0 run to take the lead back. Dallo and Mouhammadou Jaiteh (206-C-94) scored three points in the dying seconds to seal the victory Mouhammadou Jaiteh provided 13 points and 9 rebounds, while Alexandre Chassang (203-PF-94) added 10 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. Rasmus Larsen (212-C-94) responded with 22 points and 10 rebounds for Denmark. Kristoffer Gertz (193-G-94) had 12 points in the loss.

France U18: Benjamin Sene 14, Mouhammadou Jaiteh 13, Alexandre Chassang 10+11 boards
Denmark U18: Rasmus Larsen 22+10 boards, Kristoffer Gertz 12


Andrew Albicy signs 2-year deal with Paris-Levallois - by Eurobasket News

Andrew Albicy (178-PG-90) is back to Paris-Levallois. The French point guard signed a 2-year deal with his former team. Albicy spent last season with Gravelines averaging 11.3 points, 3.9 assists, 2.4 steals and 2.2 rebounds for 30 games in ProA. They were regular season champions, but later they failed against Cholet in the Playoff Quarterfinals. Andrew Albicy is a product of Paris Basket Racing (now Paris-Levallois), where he played until the last summer. In 2010/11 season the player had 11.1 ppg, 4.5 apg and 1.8 rpg for 30 games in ProA. A year before that his numbers were lower. Andrew Albicy played for the French National Team at 2011 EuroBasket in Lithuania. He had 1.6 ppg for 7 games. Albicy also played at 2010 World Championship in Turkey. In the past, he shined with French youth National Teams. Three years ago Albicy led U20 France to gold medal in Croatia and was named Eurobasket.com All-European Championships U20 MVP -10.


Le Mans signs Victor Cuthbert - by Eurobasket News

Cuthbert Victor (197-F-83, college: Murray St.) will continue his career in France. The 29-year-old forward signed a deal with Le Mans, according to French media (Catch-and-shoot.com). Cuthbert arrives to the club from Spartak Primorie Vladivostok, where he had 13.1 ppg and 7.5 rpg for 16 Russian league games last season. The player also added 13.5 ppg, 5.5 rpg and 2.5 spg for 2 appearances in EuroChallenge qualifications. Cuthbert Victor played for Menorca from 2009 until the last summer. Before that he was a member of Melilla and CAI Zaragoza.
Cuthbert Victor is active member of the US Virgin Islands National Team since 1999. Last summer he led USVI to gold medal at CentroBasket in Nassau (Bahamas). Cuthbert shined with 16.6 ppg, 8 rpg, 2.4 apg and 2 spg for 5 games at this event. He was named Latinbasket.com All-CBC Championships Best Player -11.


Orchies tab Julien Bestron - by Eurobasket News

Orchies strengthened their frontcourt. They added Julien Bestron (204-C-86) to the roster. The centre spent the previous season with Roche. He tallied 7.5 points and 4.6 boards per game in NM1. Previously Julien Bestron played for Chalons-Reims, Champagne, Quimper, Angers, Nancy. He was named All-French N1 Centre of the Year in 2010. Julien Bestron was trumped All-French ProB Newcomer of the Year in 2006. He was the member of U17, U18 and U20 French National Teams.


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  GEORGIA   


U18 European Championship: Portugal edge Georgia in Sarajevo - by Eurobasket News

Portugal U18-Georgia U18 81:59

Portugal edge Georgia in Sarajevo at the U18 European Championship in Division B. Portugal won 81:59 and finished fourth with 2-2 record in Group D. Georgia meanwhile lost all four games and finished on the last spot.
Portugal erupted with 27-12 in the first period and never looked behind after. They produced 21-15 in the second frame and enjoyed 48:27 lead after two quarters. In the second half the teams exchanged narrow wins for the final victory of the Portuguese team.
Pedro Marques (173-PG-95) top-scored for the winners with 19 points and Isaias Insaly (197-F/C-95) added 16 points and 11 caroms. Pedro Bastos (186-PG-94) finished the game with 15 points and Diogo Ventura (189-PG-94) nailed 8. Beka Burjanadze (203-PF-94) ended up with 20 points and 14 rebounds in the losing case, whilst Nugzar Abuladze (182-G-95) netted 12. Nika Ramishvili (179-SG-94) delivered 10 and Giorgi Tsirekidze (202-C-94) notched 8.

Portugal U18: Pedro Marques 19, Isaias Insaly 16+11 rebs, Pedro Bastos 15, Diogo Ventura 8
Georgia U18: Beka Burjanadze 20+14 rebs, Nugzar Abuladze 12, Nika Ramishvili 10, Giorgi Tsirekidze 8


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


U18 European Championship: Germany open win count in Latvia and Lithuania - by Eurobasket News

Germany U18 - Poland U18 64:54

Germany registered the first win at the U18 European Championship. They knocked down Poland to improve at 1-0 record in classification round Group G. Malik Mueller (188-G-94) scored 11 points to lead the winners.
Germany started the game strongly. They secured a 23:14 lead after ten minutes of action. Poland stopped the rot in the second term. They narrowed the deficit and arrived at halftime trailing by just 3 points 34:37. Poland held Germany to only 5 points in the third quarter and surged ahead for a 44:42 lead. But Germany went on a decisive 22:10 run in the final stanza and snatched a tough win at the end. Dominic Lockhart (197-F-94) produced 10 points, while Johannes Thiemann (203-F-94) had 9 points for the winners. Jakub Garbacz (196-SF-94) answered with 14 points for Poland. Damian Jeszke (202-PF-95) netted 8 points in the loss.

Germany U18: Malik Mueller 11, Dominic Lockhart 10, Johannes Thiemann 9
Poland U18: Jakub Garbacz 14, Damian Jeszke 8


USC Heidelberg lands White - by Eurobasket Center

USC Heidelberg (ProA) strengthened their roster with addition of 24-year old American forward Devin White (203-F-88, college: SUNO). He just just graduated Southern University - New Orleans. During his senior year he averaged 16.5ppg, 8.7rpg, 2.5apg, 3.6bpg in 19 games. He also received All-NAIA D1 Honorable Mention award and helped his team to get into the NAIA D1 Sweet 16.




Webster Moreland: "The Jamal Crawford Pro Am Summer League has prepared me for any level" - by Moritz Korff

Webster Moreland (198-/GF, college: Warner Pacific) played a stellar campaign for the Rattelsdorf Independents in the 1. Regionalliga South-East last season. In his first year of professional basketball the native of Fairfield, California, averaged 21.4 points, 7.9 rebounds, 3.0 steals and 2.4 assists per contest. Thanks to his versatility and outstanding athleticism Moreland is able to play several position on the basketball court. And he used the summer break to work on several aspects of his game in order to be ready for the new challenges that will be waiting in the upcoming season. Moreland, a graduate of NAIA school Warner Pacific and a 2011 NAIA All-American, is currently still available, he talked to Eurobasket about his summer work outs and his game.

Why did you decide to convert to a 2/3 player?
I decided to convert over to the 2/3, because I knew it would make my chances higher to landing a job and maintaining a career overseas. So instead of being a decent size 6ft6 small forward I'm more of a threat with a consistent mid range and three ball now and that is worth converting over to.

How exactly did you work on your shot?
What I did to work on my shot this summer is I went back to the basics and ground zero with my old college teammates and my personal trainer. Just watched film and studied what I was doing wrong and broke down the correct way to do it and worked on that corrected shot everyday in the gym. Shooting countless jump shots and three pointers in the gym the correct way has made a huge difference and I feel really confident about my shooting ability right now.

What else have you been working on during the summer?
I have also been working heavily on more European style play. Euro steps, putting the ball down before I dribble on the drive has all been incorporated with my everyday work out and can honestly tell you, any coaches and GMs out there, that I'm ready more then ever for overseas ball again.

Can you talk a little bit about the Jamal Crawford Pro Am Summer League that you attended? What were some of the players who participated and in what way did you benefit from playing in that league?
The Jamal Crawford Pro Am Summer League is "Big Time" and you better be prepared to play every time you touch the court, because the caliber of play is very very high and it was a great opportunity to be invited to play in this league. You can see all type of NBA players play every weekend. For example: Jamal Crawford, Nate Robinson, Terrence Williams, Isiah Thomas, Brandon Roy, Martell Webster, Spencer Hawes, Lamarcus Aldridge, Tony Wroten and thats just the NBA players, I didn't even name any of the top overseas players and college players that participate in this league as well. This league has benefited me tremendously, because some coaches and agents question my ability to play on a higher level, because I came from a small college and then their doubt in me makes me doubt my abilities at times, but being a starter and one of the main contributors on my Pro Am team shows that I can play with anybody and it doesn't matter where you played, but how you play. So my confidence is up and that league has prepared me for any level that I get picked up on this up-coming season.

You dominated in the 1. Regionalliga last season: Which would be the best league for you to play in the 2012-13 season?
I think the best league for me this up and coming season would be either Pro B teams or Pro A teams, but I wouldn't mind playing another year in the 1. Regionalliga again with a team of aspirations of moving up. I know I can help any team right now and just need that right fit for the up and coming season.

Would playing in another European country than Germany be an option for you as well?
My goal was to move up the leagues and stay in Germany, because I loved it that much, but I see how hard it is to land a job on the next levels so I'm open to going anywhere if they are willing to bring me in.

For those who don't know you yet: What are some of the characteristics of your game?
For people who don't know my game yet, I'm a very versatile type of player who can play multiple positions and love to fill up the stat sheet (ppg, rpg, apg, spg, bpg). So you get a little of everything with me and now that I have included a consistent jump-shot you better watch out! If any teams are interested or need a player like myself contact me at any time at webster_moreland@hotmail.com


Jason Jamerson moves to Paderborn - by Moritz Korff

Pro A team fink baskets Paderborn has signed its first American import player for the 2012-13 season. Jason Jamerson (188-G-86, college: Grand Valley St.) will boost the backcourt, the team unveiled on its website today. Jamerson comes off a great season with Pro B team Giants Noerdlingen. He averaged 22.3 points, 5.7 rebounds, 4.5 assists and 1.6 steals per contest for the Giants in this past season. The 2008 graduate of Grand Valley State University (NCAA Division 2) previously played in the Pro A for the Saar-Pfalz Braves.


Larry Wright Remains With The Fraport Skyliners Juniors - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

PRO B team Fraport Skyliners juniors got good news today as Larry Wright (187-G-87, college: Oakland) was kept for another season. Wright is a 25 year old 187cm guard from Saignaw Michigan and will commence his second season with the Fraport Skyliners juniors. Last season, he was one of the main scoring options playing 21 games: 16.7ppg, 3.6rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 47.9%, 3PT: 42.4%, FT: 77.8%. "We are happy that Larry will return. He showed his qualities last season and showed his service to the team and fits perfect into our concept. He is a guard/wing type player with good basics and a very athletic and intensive playing style. He will also help in practice getting our players to move forward", expressed head coach Eric Detlev . Last season, he scored in double figures 18 times including his last 15 games. His highest scoring game was 24 points against Leipzig and he scored 21 points more in the playoff series against Alba Berlin 2.

FRAPORT SKYLINERS e.V.


NBC Signs Nico Dilukila - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

PRO A team NBC have signed a journey man with Nicolau Dilukila (184-G-88) who will be playing for his fifth basketball team. Dilukila is a 24 year old 188cm point guard that has the German/Angolan citzenship. Last season, he played for Licher Basket Baeren (Germany-ProB): 25 games: 3.9ppg, 2.2rpg, 1.3apg. "He is a very strong defender. His athletic ability really helps him. He will give our guards in the playmaking and defense much help", stressed NBC head coach Martin Ides Dilukila started his basketball career in 2003 for Franken Hexer junior team - TS 1861 Herzogenaurach (Regionalliga). He then played for FC Baunach (1.Regionalliga) from 2004-2007. He then played two years for TSV Troester Breitenguessbach (Germany-ProB) playing 53 PRO B games. He then played for teh Spot Up Medien Baskets Braunschweig (Germany-ProB) from 2009-2011 playing 40 PRO B games. Dilukila now has his first chance to play PRO A. "The last 5 years were very valuable experience in the PRO B, but now I am happy to be able to support this team. My motivation is doubled since my family comes form here and i can play together again with my boys Sebastian Schroeder and Juan Reile", added Nicolau Dilukila. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been German U16 National Team -04, Albert-Schweitzer-Tournament in Mannheim (Unofficial World Championships U18) -04: 6 games: 4.0ppg, 1.2rpg, 0.8apg, 1.0spg,German U18 National Team -05, and German NBBL Final Four -07.

Source: NBC


Stacy Nolan Leaves The Oettinger Rockets Gotha - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

PRO A team Oettinger Rockets Gotha found their new assistant coach very early in the summer transfer period with Stacey Nolan (196-G-72, college: Hawaii-Pacific), but 3 months after announcing his arrival, the team now will be without him. Nolan leaves the team on his own request. Nolan asked the team if he could released from his contract due to personal reasons. "Even if his time in Gotha was short, we still want to thank him for his stay and wish him the best for the future", stated Bjoern Snater from the BiG GmbH. Head coach Marko Simic is lloking for a new assistant coach and should be presented in the next days.

Source:Oettinger Rockets Gotha


Lamayn Wilson Back In The Beko BBL Joining The Artland Dragons - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber


The Artland Dragons have found a replacement for Nathan Peavy bringing back a known face back to the Beko BBL with Lamayne Wilson (204-F-80, college: Troy) who is starting his 11th professional season and has played in 8 countries in Europe. Back in the 2004-2005 season, Wilson played fpr EnBW Ludwigsburg (Germany-1.Bundesliga) playing 33 games: 15.8ppg, 6.8rpg, 1.1apg, 1.4spg, 1.8bpg, 2FGP: 55.7%, 3FGP: 34.3%. He reached the Beko BBL top 4 in Frankfurt that season. Wilson is a 32 year old 204cm forward from Alabama that is an an extremely versatile forward who really fills up the stat sheet. He is a devastating scorer who scores with an array of dunks, jump shots, and drives into the lane. At 6'8" Lamayn is one of the best shooters you will ever find as he shoots well over 40% from the 3-point line. In addition to his tremendous shooting ability, Lamayn is also one of the most athletic forwards in the country with a vertical leap that is nearly 40 inches. Lamayn uses his athleticism to get out on the break and outrun defenders and also to elevate over them for some incredible dunks. In addition to Lamayn's prowess on the offensive end, Lamayn is also a gifted defender who is quick enough and athletic enough to guard multiple positions on the defensive end. Lamayn is one of those gifted athletes who also works incredibly hard on his game. Last season, Wilson played for CEZ Basketball Nymburk (Czech Rep.-NBL, starting five): Euroleague Qualifying Round: 3 games: 12.3ppg, 5.7rpg, 1.0spg, FGP: 59.1%, 3PT: 21.4%, FT: 40.0%; EuroCup: 14 games: 11.0ppg, 5.1rpg, FGP: 48.8%, 3PT: 32.7%, FT: 74.1%; VTB League: 16 games: 11.6ppg, 5.9rpg, 1.3apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 47.3%, 3PT: 34.1%, FT: 59.3%; Czech Rep. League: 32 games: 14.5ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.3apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 59.3%, 3PT: 38.5%, FT: 76.9%. "Lamayn is a good and experienced player that has played at a top level whereever he has been in Europe. He was one of the important players at Nymburk. They just missed teh Euroleague and reached the Eurocup quarterfinals. We feel that he is a further part of the puzzle to a beautiful picture", stressed Artland Dragons head coach Stefan Koch.

Wilson played at Troy (NCAA) from 2000-2002. In 2002, he started his professional basketball career at BK Skonto Riga (Latvia-LBL, starting five): Left team in Apr.'03 FIBA Champions Cup: 16games 16.1ppg 5.7rpg 0.6apg 1.2bpg LBL: 26games 15.4ppg 7.2rpg 1.5apg 1.7spg 1.2bpg. In 2003-2004, he played at Avtodor Saratov (Russia-A Superleague, starting five): FIBA Europe Cup: 6 games: 17.3ppg, 8.2rpg, 2.0apg, 1.5spg, 1.0bpg; Russian A Superleague: 13 games: 16,3ppg, 6.6rpg, 1.5apg, 1.6spg. In 2005-2006, he played at Cholet Basket (France-ProA, starting five): FIBA Europe Cup: 6 games: 16.5ppg, 6.2rpg, 0ast, 1.5spg, 2FGP: 53.5%, 3FGP: 34.4%, FT: 66.7%; French League: 34 games: Score-2 (17.1ppg), 7.0rpg, 1.6apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 47.8%, 3PT: 39.5%, FT: 69.3%. From 2006-2007, he played at : Tisettanta Cantu (Italy-SerieA, starting five): 37 games: 9.2ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 50.3%, 3PT: 27.7%, FT: 71.2%. From 2007-2008, he played at Adecco ASVEL Lyon-Villeurbanne (France-ProA, starting five): ULEB Cup: 12 games: 17.1ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.0apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 60.4%, 3PT: 49.1%, FT: 65.4%; French League: 30 games: 15.6ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.1apg, 1.1spg, 2FGP: 51.3%, 3PT: 35.1%, FT: 76.6%. From 2008-2009, he played at Sluc Nancy Basket Pro (France-ProA, starting five), injured in Feb.'09 and was off for 2 months: Euroleague: 9 games: 12.1ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.4spg; French League: 26 games: 12.7ppg, 6.2rpg, 1.2apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 50.5%, 3PT: 37.1%, FT: 85.1%. From 2009-2010, he played at Turk Telekom Ankara (Turkey-TBL): EuroCup: 11 games: 15.6ppg, 5.0rpg, 1.5apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 43.6%, 3PT: 50.0%, FT: 81.5%; Turkish League: 25 games: 12.8ppg, 5.7rpg, 1.1apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 57.8%, 3PT: 35.7%, FT: 75.9%. From 2010-2011, he played at Budivelnyk Kyiv (Ukraine-Superleague, starting five): EuroCup: 14 games: 11.1ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.5apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 49.3%, 3PT: 34.3%, FT: 63.6%; Euroleague Qualifying Round: 2 games: 3.5ppg, 5.0rpg, 1.5spg; Ukrainian League: 61 games: 12.5ppg, 4.7rpg, 1.4apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 59.3%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 76.7%. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been TAAC Tournament Finalist -01, A-Sun All-Conference First Team -02, Latvian League All-Star Game-03
Eurobasket.com Latvian LBL All-Imports Team -03, FIBA Europe Cup North Conference Finalist -04, German Bundesliga All-Star Game -05, German Bundesliga Cup Semifinals -05
Eurobasket.com All-German Bundesliga Defensive Player of the Year -05, French LNB All-Star Game -06, Eurobasket.com All-French ProA 2nd Team -06, 08, Eurobasket.com French ProA All-Imports Team -06, French ProA All-Star Game -08, 09, French La Semaine des As Cup Semifinals -08, French ProA Semifinals -08, French Cup Winner -08
Eurocup Quarterfinals -11, 12, Eurobasket.com All-Ukrainian Superleague Honorable Mention -11, Ukrainian Superleague Champion -11, Ukrainian Superleague Regular Season Runner-Up -11, Czech Rep. Cup Winner -12, Eurobasket.com All-Czech Rep. League Forward of the Year -12, Eurobasket.com All-Czech Rep. League 1st Team -12
Eurobasket.com Czech Rep. League All-Imports Players Team -12, Czech Rep. League Regular Season Champion -12, and Czech Rep. League Champion -12.

Source: Artland Dragons



Michael Anthony Crowell Joins BG Goettingen - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber


After playing 3 games for the Brose Baskets Bamberg in the 2010-2011 season, Michael Crowell (201-F-85, agency: Dynamics Global Management, college: Idaho) is back in Germany now in the PRO A with BG Goettingen. Crowell is a 26 year old 201cm forward from Mesa, Arizona that also has the German citzenship. "We are happy to have Michael play for us. We were looking for a German player that can play the 3 and 4 position and has a good shot from outside. Even though he didnt play the last two seasons, we think that he will help our bench", stressed BG Goettingen head coach Johann Roijakkers. Crowell started his basketball career in 2004 for Blinn college. In 2005-2006, he played for Central Arizona College: Averaged 21.7 points per game, which ranked 12th in NJCAA Division I, and 11.3 rebounds per game, which ranked fifth. He then played for Idaho (NCAA) from 2006-2008 playing a total of 57 NCAA games. In 2008-2009, he played for Alerta Cantabria Lobos (Spain-LEB Bronze, starting five): 11 games: 2.1ppg; in Jan.'09 moved to BC Scholz Recycling Weissenhorn (Germany-Regionalliga): 11 games: 12.0ppg. In 2009-2010, he played for SAMG Verve Scottish Rocks (United Kingdom-BBL): 32 games: 8.7ppg, 3.6rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 52.6%, 3PT: 42.8%, FT: 65.2%. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been HS earned all-league honors -04, JUCO second team All-Region I and second team All-Arizona Community College Athletic Conference -06, and British BBL Finalist -10

Source: BG Goettingen


Adam Hess Will Strap On A Phoenix Hagen Jersey In 2012-2013 - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber


After coming back to the Artland Dragons twice after stints in France and Spain, it seemed like Quackenbruck was as much as home to Adam Hess (201-G/F-81, college: William & Mary) as Michael Phelps 22 Olympic medals could sell out a small quaint cellar home movie theater of any celebrity, but Hess is on the move again as he will play for Phoenix Hagen this season. Hess is a 31 year old 210cm forward from Michigan that recently obtained the German citzenship. He is a quick forward with not so great athletic skills, but very effective at the scoring department. He's a tough player, however, and knows how to battle inside for a rebounde. Also, he defends well and has great attitude. Last seaosn he played for the Artland Dragons playing EuroCup Qualifications: 2 games: 3.0ppg, 1.5rpg; EuroChallenge: 11 games: 10.2ppg, 2.9rpg, FGP: 57.7%, 3PT: 51.3%, FT: 84.6%; German League: 39 games: 6.2ppg, 1.9rpg, FGP: 54.5%, 3PT: 42.2%, FT: 86.5%. Hess comes for Zygimantas Jonusas who will play in Italy this season. "Adam is a similar player to Jonusas and has much experience and knows how to give it to the other players", stressed Phoenix Hagen CEO Oliver Herkelmann. "Adam will help us on offense and with his experience and cleverness on defense. It is known what Adam can do. We also want him to be a leader", added Phoenix hagen head coach Ingo Freyer.

Hess strated his basketball career in 1999 at : E.Michigan (NCAA): 9.5ppg, 4rpg. He then played at William & Mary (NCAA) from 2001-2004 playing a total of 76 NCAA games there . In 2004-2005, he started his professional basketball career for Fabriano Basket (Italy-Lega2): released in Sep.'04 before the season started, next month joined CEZ Basketball Nymburk (Czech Republic-NBL):FIBA Europe League: 9 games: 11.1ppg, 4.0rpg, 6ast, FGP: 63.2%, 3Pts: 30.3%; Czech Rep. League: 34 games: 15.2ppg, 5.7rpg, 1.2apg, 2FGP-2 ( 61.3%), 3FGP: 36.4%. In 2005-2006, he tore up the league for : BK ECM Nymburk (Czech Republic-NBL, starting five): FIBA Europe Cup: 12 games: 15.1ppg, 7.8rpg, 1.8apg, 1.4spg, 2FGP: 58.8%, 3FGP: 42.3%, FT: 67.7%; Czech Rep. League: 43 games: 14.7ppg, 6.7rpg, 1.8apg, 2FGP: 64.8%, 3PT: 40.9%, FT: 77.5%. In 2006-2007 was his first ore of duty for the Artland Dragons Quakenbrueck (Germany-1.Bundesliga), injured in Feb.'07 and was sidelined for 1 month: 43 games: 14.5ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.1apg, 2FGP: 50.2%, 3FGP: 36.5%, FT: 80.0%. In 2007-2008, he gathered experience for Chorale de Roanne Basket (France-ProA, starting five): Euroleague: 14 games: 10.5ppg, 3.8rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 50.9%, 3PT: 38.9%, FT: 73.7%; French League: 30 games: 9.6ppg, 5rpg, 1.5apg, 2FGP: 44.3%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 80.9%. In 2008-2009, he returned back to the Artland Dragons Quakenbrueck (Germany-1.Bundesliga, starting five): Eurocup: 12 games: 13.9ppg, 3.0rpg, 1.3spg, FGP: 57.5%, 3PT: 39.0%, FT: 69.2%; German League: 34 games: 13.6ppg, 4.2rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 59.1%, 3PT: 39.8%, FT: 78.1%. In 2009-2010, he played in Spain for C.B. Tarragona 2016 (Spain-LEB Gold, starting five): 34 games: 14.8ppg, 5.6rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 45.4%, 3PT: 40.7%, FT: 88.1%. He played a total of 150 Beko BBl games. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been New York Hoops touring team -01, CAA All-Academic Team -02, All-CAA 1st Team -04, Academic All-America 1st Team -04, Czech Rep. Cup Winner -05, Czech Rep. League All-Star Game -05 (3-Points Shootount Winner), 06, Czech Rep. League Regular Season Champion -05, 06, Czech Rep. League Champion -05, 06, Eurobasket.com All-Czech Rep. League 2nd Team -06, Eurobasket.com Czech Rep. League All-Imports Team -06, German Bundesliga Cup Finalist -07, German Bundesliga Finalist -07, Eurobasket.com All-German Bundesliga 2nd Team -07, French ProA Finalist -08, Eurobasket.com, Spanish LEB Gold All-Imports Team -10, German Bundesliga Cup Semifinals -11, German Bundesliga Semifinals -11, 12, and EuroChallenge Quarterfinals -12

Source: Phoenix Hagen


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

Stats Leaders - A1

Points Per Game
 Nestoras KOMMATOS
  Marousi
  (203-F-77)
  Avg: 20.4
 1. Kommatos, Marousi20.4 
 2. Christmas, AGOR18.6 
 3. Charalampidi., KAO.15.6 
 4. Gagaloudis, Marousi15.6 
 5. Beck, Ikaros14.8 
 6. Dikoudis, PAOK14.7 
 7. James, Aris14.5 
 8. Taylor, Kavala13.9 
 9. Baynes, Ikaros13.6 
 10. Wright, AGOR13.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Aron BAYNES
  Ikaros
  (208-C-86)
  Avg: 8.7
 1. Baynes, Ikaros8.7 
 2. Haritopoulos, Maro.7.6 
 3. NaNa, Ilysiakos7.5 
 4. Stepheson, Panio.7.3 
 5. Kommatos, Marousi6.6 
 6. Symtsak, Kavala6.4 
 7. O''Bryant, Kavala5.9 
 8. Tapoutos, Aris5.8 
 9. Scott, Peristeri GS5.7 
 10. Ceranic, KAOD5.7 
Assists Per Game
 Yannis GAGALOUDIS
  Marousi
  (192-G-78)
  Avg: 6
 1. Gagaloudis, Marousi6.0 
 2. Spanoulis, Olympia.5.0 
 3. Xanthopoulos, Pani.4.6 
 4. Diamantidis, Panat.4.4 
 5. Charalampidi., KAO.4.3 
 6. Wright, AGOR4.1 
 7. James, Aris4.1 
 8. Thompson, Ilysi.3.5 
 9. Mocnik, Perister.3.1 
 10. Jasikevicius, Pan.3.1 
Steals Per Game
 Zack WRIGHT
  AGOR
  (188-G-85)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Wright, AGOR2.5 
 2. James, Aris1.9 
 3. Thompson, Ilysi.1.7 
 4. Xanthopoulos, Pani.1.7 
 5. Christmas, AGOR1.6 
 6. Calathes, Panathin.1.6 
 7. Dorsey, Olympiacos1.6 
 8. Hatten, Kolossos1.5 
 9. Gagaloudis, Marousi1.5 
 10. Kommatos, Marousi1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Patrick O''BRYANT
  Kavala
  (213-C-86)
  Avg: 1.5
 1. O''Bryant, Kavala1.5 
 2. Petway, AGOR1.3 
 3. Muldrow, Aris1.3 
 4. Hines, Olympiacos1.1 
 5. Elegar, Marousi1.1 
 6. Michel, KAOD0.9 
 7. Dorsey, Olympiacos0.9 
 8. Stepheson, Panio.0.9 
 9. Vougioukas, Panat.0.8 
 10. Baynes, Ikaros0.7 


Stats Leaders - A2

Points Per Game
 Alex STEVOVIC
  AE.
  (195-G-90)
  Avg: 20.3
 1. Stevovic, AE.20.3 
 2. Argyropoylos, Apol.19.6 
 3. Totsios, Ikaroi S.18.3 
 4. Pettas, Doxa L.17.2 
 5. Iliadis, Ermis L.17.1 
 6. Gizogiannis, Arkad.16.9 
 7. Psileas, Lavrio16.8 
 8. Kyriakopoulo., Pan.16.3 
 9. Vasilopoulos, AEK16.2 
 10. Dimakos, Pagrati16.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Vladimir PETROVIC-STERGIOU
  Apollo.
  (198-F/G-77)
  Avg: 8.6
 1. Petrovic-S., Apoll.8.6 
 2. Gizogiannis, Arkad.8.4 
 3. Sklavos, AEK Athe.7.7 
 4. Toutziarakis, OFI7.6 
 5. Krolo, Apollon Pat.7.6 
 6. Lolas, Amyntas7.3 
 7. Simeonidis, Ikaroi7.2 
 8. Nisiotis, Ermis L.7.2 
 9. Macheras, Panery.7.0 
 10. Sigounas, Pagrati6.7 
Assists Per Game
 Leonidas ZOUPAS
  Amyntas .
  (182-G-82)
  Avg: 6
 1. Zoupas, Amyntas6.0 
 2. Papadakis, Arkad.5.6 
 3. Vasilopoulos, AEK5.4 
 4. Nikou, Panelefs.5.2 
 5. Koronidis, Perama5.2 
 6. Kaberidis, Ikaroi4.8 
 7. Argyropoylos, Apol.4.7 
 8. Makris, Pagrati4.6 
 9. Kekelis, Ermis L.4.0 
 10. Panagakis, OFI4.0 
Steals Per Game
 Gianni VAVATSIKOS
  AEK/A.
  (201-F-90)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Vavatsikos, AEK/A.1.9 
 2. Pettas, Doxa L.1.8 
 3. Tsiotras, Arkadikos1.8 
 4. Lewis, OFI1.8 
 5. Nikitakis, Nea K.1.7 
 6. Magounis, Panele.1.6 
 7. Stevovic, AE.1.6 
 8. Totsios, Ikaroi S.1.5 
 9. Argyropoylos, Apol.1.5 
 10. Kallianotis, Pane.1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Sotiris KATOUFAS
  Panery.
  (206-F-79)
  Avg: 1.2
 1. Katoufas, Panery.1.2 
 2. Karadolamis, OFI1.1 
 3. Libaris-P., Doxa L.1.1 
 4. Koutroulias, Pagra.1.0 
 5. Toutziarakis, OFI1.0 
 6. Margaritis, Ikaroi0.8 
 7. Krolo, Apollon Pat.0.7 
 8. Foutsitzis, Periko.0.6 
 9. Noeas, AEK Athens0.6 
 10. Anagnostopou., Er.0.6 


Greens push hard for Antonis Fotsis - by Eurobasket News

Panathinaikos is not giving up. The Greens are pushing hard to return their former player Antonis Fotsis (209-F-81). According to Gazzetta.gr, Panathinaikos latest offer to Milano is 500k euros (buy-out fee) and they also offered 5 million euros to Fotsis for a 3-year deal. The player has one more year left in his contract with Milano. The Italian team is expected to give its final answer today.
Antonis Fotsis played for PAO from 2008 until the last summer. He also was their member from 1997 to 2001 and in 2002/03. Last season Fotsis had 8.4 ppg and 5 rpg for 16 Euroleague games with Milano. He also added 8.5 ppg and 4.7 rpg in 44 SerieA appearances. From 2005 to 2008 Fotsis played for Dynamo Moscow and before that he spent two years with Real Madrid. In 2001/02, Fotsis played for the NBA team Memphis Grizzlies. He had 3.9 ppg and 2.2 rpg for 28 games.


Greek side PAOK wants to play in the Balkan League - by Eurobasket News

The interest in the EUROHOLD Balkan League is rising every year. This summer one of the most popular Greek clubs PAOK Thessaloniki has contacted the management of the BIBL with ambition to join the competition.

A meeting between the two sides is yet to be held with exchanging information and a final decision about PAOK joining the BIBL will be taken until the end of August. Before that Shay Shtriks will meet the director of PAOK Branislav Prelevic, as they will discuss everything necessary about PAOK's possible participation in the League.

If everything is good and the decision is positive PAOK will become the first Greek team to play in the EUROHOLD Balkan League.

Courtesy of www.balkanleague.net


Greens officially sign Giannopoulos Haralampos to 1+1 year deal - by Eurobasket News

Haralampos Giannopoulos (206-F-89, agency: FCM) officially became a new member of Panathinaikos Athens. The Greek forward signed a 1+1 year deal with the club. Haralampos was named Eurobasket.com All-Greek A1 League Co-Most Improved Player of the Year -12. He had 12.4 ppg, 5.3 rpg and 1.9 apg in 24 games with Peristeri. From 2009 until the last summer the forward played for Panionios. There he had 3.5 ppg and 1.4 rpg for 22 games in their second season together. In 2009/10, the player had almost the same numbers. Haralampos Giannopoulos was a member of Olympiakos in 2008/09, but he mostly played for their junior team. In the past, he spent few years with PAOK Thessaloniki. Haralampos Giannopoulos very successfully played for Greek youth National Teams from 2005 to 2009. He led U20 Greece to gold medal at U20 EuroBasket in Rhodes three years ago. With U18 NT, Haralampos won the silver medal at U18 EuroBasket in Madrid (2007).


U18 European Championship: Spain open Second Stage with win - by Eurobasket News

Spain U18 - Greece U18 65:52

Spain recorded the fourth straight win at the U18 European Championship. They defeated Greece at the start of the Second Stage. Oriol Pauli (201-G-94) scored 15 points to lead the winners. Greece fell at 0-3 record in Group E after the loss.
The Hellenes got to the better start. They ensured a 12:11 lead ten minutes into the game. Spain denied the deficit in the second quarter. The reigning champions eked out a 28:27 halftime lead. Spain stretched the lead in the third quarter. They secured a 3-point lead at the final intermission 45:42. Spain cleared off in the fourth stanza. They held Greece to 10 points and rallied to a comfortable victory at the end. Juan Saiz (204-PF-94) finished with 11 points, while Ilimane Diop (209-C-95) added 10 points for the winners. Dimitrios Agravanis (208-F-94, agency: FCM) answered with 13 points for Greece. Alexandros Mitsialos (204-SF-94) netted 9 points in the loss.

Spain U18: Oriol Pauli 15, Juan Saiz 11, Ilimane Diop 10
Greece U18: Dimitrios Agravanis 13, Alexandros Mitsialos 9


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


Tyrone "Tree" Marioneaux to stay on BC Apollo bench - by Fred Roggen

After taking over the bench last season and winning the championship in the Promotie-Division, Tyronne Marioneaux will return as head coach of BC Apollo Amsterdam for 2012-13, too, the club announced on Monday. Marioneaux, 62, had an impressive career as a player and as coach in Holland. He made his Dutch League debut in 1971, playing for the famous Levi's Flamingo's, then he moved to Austria playing for UBSC Wien, he came back to Holland in 1975 and never left. He played till 1992 for Sperry Remington Den Bosch, Amstelveen, BC Markt Utrecht, Ests Akrides IJmuiden and Graydon Canadians Amsterdam.
Tyrone was assistant coach at Big Boss Akrides IJmuiden and has been head coach in the Dutch league with BC Markt Utrecht and Graydon Canadians Amsterdam.


Dutch Men National Team 2012 - by Fred Roggen

Kees Akerboom (200-F-83, agency: Court Side) EiffelTowers Den Bosch
Sean Cunningham (188-PG-86, agency: R.H.Consultancy, college: Cal-Riverside) ZZ Leiden
Francisco Elson (212-C-76, agency: Court Side, college: California) Philadelphia 76ers
Nikki Hulzebos (208-F-86, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement) Landstede Basketbal
Rogier Jansen (188-G-84, agency: Court Side) EiffelTowers Den Bosch
Worthy de Jong (194-SG-88, agency: R.H.Consultancy) ZZ Leiden
Thomas Koenis (207-F/C-89, agency: Court Side) GasTerra Flames
Henk Norel (212-F/C-87) Joventut Badalona
Arvin Slagter (192-G-85, agency: Court Side) ZZ Leiden
Robin Smeulders (208-F-87, agency: Court Side, college: Portland) EWE Basket Oldenburg
Ties Theeuwkens (190-G-85, agency: Court Side) GasTerra Flames
Leon Williams (183-PG-91, agency: R.H.Consultancy) Rotterdam Basketball College

Head coach Jan Willem Jansen
Assistant coach Peter van Noord
Scout Ferry Steenmetz
Team Manager Matthijs Groot


Matrixx Magixx adds size with Rashanti Harris - by Fred Roggen

Matrixx Magixx Wijchen bolstered its frontcourt before the upcoming season by inking center Rashanti Harris (203-PF-89), the club announced Tuesday. Rashanti Harris arrives from Tata Motors Loyola (Malta-Powerade League), where he became Maltese League All-Star Game Slam Dunk winner. Harris had previously played with Halifax Rainmen in Canada, averaging 0pts, 1block in 1 PBL game.
Harris never played college ball, he was signed in 2009 by Georgia State (NCAA), but not qualified academically.



U18 European Championship: Belgium advanced to the next stage despite the loss - by Eurobasket News

Belgium U18-Holland U18 74:79

Belgium advanced to the next stage despite the loss from Holland at the U18 European Championship in Division B. The latter won 79:74 but finished third with 2-2 record. Belgium as well as Portugal ended up with the same record, but Belgium advanced to Elite Eight with the better difference.
Belgium won the first period 19-17, but Holland grabbed 33:32 lead at the halftime. Moreover Holland was one step from the Second stage after 27-9 in the third period, but failed at the end of the game. Belgium erupted with 33-19 in the last stanza and advanced to the next stage.
Mathias Van Steenwinkel (200-F-94) led the way with 17 points and Emmanuel Lecomte (180-G-95) netted 11. Naim El Khounchar (193-G-94) and Mathijs Gijbels (204-PF-95) posted 10 points each. Jito Kok (205-C-94) answered with 23 points and 11 rebounds in defeat, whilst Mike Schilder (185-PG-94, agency: Court Side) added 19. Shane Hammink (198-F-94) poured in 18 and Floris Versteeg (205-F-94) notched 6.

Belgium U18: Jito Kok 23+11 rebs, Mike Schilder 19, Shane Hammink 18, Floris Versteeg 6
Holland U18: Mathias Van Steenwinkel 17, Emmanuel Lecomte 11, Naim El Khounchar 10, Mathijs Gijbels 10


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


U18 European Championship: Hungary stole a win from Belarus - by Eurobasket News

Belarus U18-Hungary U18 83:84

Hungary stole a win from Belarus in the start of Day 5 at the U18 European Championship in Division B. Hungary won 84:83 to finish the group with 3-2 record. Belarus meanwhile fell at 1-4 record on the fifth place.
Both teams nailed 22 points in the first period and the game was expected a tough one. Hungary won the second period 25-15 and enjoyed however 10-point halftime advantage. Belarus meanwhile produced two victories in the second half and took 83:82 lead after Luka Malakhau (185-PG-94)s shot. Zoltan Perl (194-G-95) however scored two free throws for the final success.
Zoltan Perl top-scored for the winners with 18 points and Benedek Varadi (194-G/F-95) notched 17. Janos Velkey (193-G-95) delivered 15, while Kristof Bognar (206-C/F-94) brought 12. Luka Malakhau ended up with 28 points in the losing effort. Yahor Patupchyk (191-SG-94) added 18 and Anton Vashkevich (203-F/C-94) scored 13.

Belarus U18: Luka Malakhau 28, Yahor Patupchyk 18, Anton Vashkevich 13
Hungary U18: Zoltan Perl 18, Benedek Varadi 17, Janos Velkey 15, Kristof Bognar 12


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


Bnei Herzeliya adds Niv Berkowitz - by Eurobasket News

Niv Berkowitz (190-G-86, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices, college: Marquette) is a new member of Bnei Herzeliya. The Israeli guard signed a 1-year deal with his new club. Berkowitz heads to Bnei Herzeliya from Ironi Ashkelon, where he had 5.9 ppg, 2.3 apg and 2.1 rpg for 30 games last season. The player participated at Premier League All-Star Game. Before Ironi Ashkelon, Berkowitz spent one year with Maccabi Ashdod. There he had 7.1 ppg, 2.3 rpg and 2.2 apg for 30 appearances. Niv Berkowitz split 2009/10 season between Hapoel Afula and Hapoel Holon. In the past, he also played for Elitzur Qiryat Ata/Motzkin, Hapoel Yokneam/Megido and Ramat Hasharon. Niv Berkowitz was a member of Israeli U18 and U20 National Teams from 2004 to 2006. In 2007 the player won National League title with Hapoel Holon.


Maccabi Rishon Tabs Paul Carter - by David Pick

Maccabi Rishon announced it had replaced American forward Brandon Bowman with Paul Carter (204-F-87, agency: Edge Sports, college: Ill.-Chicago) for the upcoming season's games.

Bowman, a member of last season's Israeli All-Star game, was chosen (9th) in the Korea 2012 draft held in Las Vegas a few weeks ago and is expected to play there during the 2012-13 season. Carter, who played Summer League ball for the Atlanta Hawks this past month, averaged 4 points and 2.8 games in 5 appearances.

Israel's Walla.co.il's Or Shkedy reported of the negotiations between Rishon and Carter earlier this week.

Carter played last season in Cyprus where he recorded 14.8 points before returning to the U.S. and its D-League Idaho Stampede, posting 11.1ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.6apg and 1.0spg.


Bnei Herzliya Add Backcourt Depth In PG Niv Berkovic - by David Pick

Niv Berkovic signed a 1-year guaranteed deal with domestic Division I club Bnei Herzliya, the team officially announced today (Monday). Hours earlier, Israel's Sport5.co.il reported the team and Berkovic have agreed on terms of a deal.

After playing last season for Ironi Ashkelon, averaging 5.9 points, 2.3 assists and 2.1 rebounds in 30 appearances, Berkovic, a member of last year's All-Star game, looks to play a more dominant role with her new club.




U18 European Championship: Israel clinch Elite Eight appearance - by Eurobasket News

Israel U18-Romania U18 100:50

Israel clinch Elite Eight appearance of the U18 European Championship in Division B. The team finished second in Group A with 4-1 record after a 100-50 win. Romania meanwhile fell at 2-3 record.
Israel dominated the court for the whole time and rightfully clinched the victory. They won the first period 29-7 and added 23-15 in the second period. Moreover Israel produced a 24-16 in the third stanza and finished the game with 24-12 in the last quarter. Geffen gave his team three-digit number at the end of the game.
Egor Koulechov (194-SF-94) paced all the winners with 16 points and Rafael Menco (201-SF-94, agency: Avi Zilberman) posted 13. Maxim Kikus (191-SG-94, agency: Avi Zilberman) delivered 12, while Yariv Amiram (203-PF-94) netted 11. Mehmet Hortoglu (192-SG-95) answered with 12 points in the losing effort, whilst Mirel Dragoste (180-PG-95) and Vlad Cobzaru (201-C-95) brought 9 apiece.

Israel U18: Egor Koulechov 16, Rafael Menco 13, Maxim Kikus 12, Yariv Amiram 11
Riomania U18: Mehmet Hortoglu 12, Mirel Dragoste 9, Vlad Cobzaru 9


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

Standings - SerieA

SerieA Standings
 1. Acea Virtus RM 0-0 
 2. Angelico BI 0-0 
 3. Banco di Sard. 0-0 
 4. Bennet Cantu 0-0 
 5. Bologna 0-0 
 6. Cimberio VA 0-0 
 7. EA7 Emporio MI 0-0 
 8. Enel Brindisi 0-0 
 9. Montepaschi SI 0-0 
 10. Otto Caserta 0-0 
 11. Pesaro 0-0 
 12. Sidigas AV 0-0 
 13. Sutor MGR 0-0 
 14. Trenkwalder RE 0-0 
 15. Umana VE 0-0 
 16. Vanoli CR 0-0 

Regular Season: Round 1

Sep. 30: EA7 Emporio MI - JuveCaserta
Sep. 30: Banco di Sard. - Angelico BI
Sep. 30: Pesaro - Acea Virtus RM
Sep. 30: Sidigas AV - Sutor MGR
Sep. 30: Vanoli CR - Bologna
Sep. 30: Trenkwalder RE - Montepaschi SI
Sep. 30: Enel Brindisi - Cimberio VA
Oct. 2: Cantu - Umana VE

Round 2

Sep. 27: Montepaschi SI - Enel Brindisi


Greens push hard for Antonis Fotsis - by Eurobasket News

Panathinaikos is not giving up. The Greens are pushing hard to return their former player Antonis Fotsis (209-F-81). According to Gazzetta.gr, Panathinaikos latest offer to Milano is 500k euros (buy-out fee) and they also offered 5 million euros to Fotsis for a 3-year deal. The player has one more year left in his contract with Milano. The Italian team is expected to give its final answer today.
Antonis Fotsis played for PAO from 2008 until the last summer. He also was their member from 1997 to 2001 and in 2002/03. Last season Fotsis had 8.4 ppg and 5 rpg for 16 Euroleague games with Milano. He also added 8.5 ppg and 4.7 rpg in 44 SerieA appearances. From 2005 to 2008 Fotsis played for Dynamo Moscow and before that he spent two years with Real Madrid. In 2001/02, Fotsis played for the NBA team Memphis Grizzlies. He had 3.9 ppg and 2.2 rpg for 28 games.


Virtus Roma agree with Phil Goss and Ade Dagunduro - by Eurobasket News

Virtus Roma agreed with Phil Goss (186-G-83, college: Drexel) and Adeola Dagunduro (195-G-86, college: Nebraska), according to Corriere dello Sport.
Phil Goss finished last season with Cimberio Varese. He joined them in March this year averaging 12.3 points, 3.8 assists and 2.8 rebounds for 12 games in SerieA. Goss started the season with French ASVEL. There he had 9.1 ppg and 2.5 apg for 22 ProA game. The player had almost the same numbers for 12 EuroCup appearances. Goss played for Varese also in 2010/11.
Adeola Dagunduro played last two seasons for Belgian Leuven. In the latest one he had 11.8 ppg, 3.6 rpg, 2.1 apg and 2.5 spg. In the past, he spent one year with German Mitteldeutscher BC Weissenfels. Dagunduro graduated at Nebraska University in 2009. He is active member of the Nigerian National Team.


Pesaro land Reggie Hamilton - by Eurobasket News

Pesaro secured the services of Reggie Hamilton (180-PG-89) for the next season. The guard will start his pro career in Italy. Reggie Hamilton has just graduated from the University of Oakland. He averaged 25.7 points, 5.0 assists, 3.8 rebounds and 2.0 steals per game in his senior season. Reggie Hamilton made it into Summit League 1st Team. Reggie Hamilton was also named into NABC Division I All-District 12 1st Team. USBasket.com named the guard into All-NCAA D1 1st Team. Reggie Hamilton participated at the Portsmouth Invitational Tournament. His stats read 5.7 points, 3.7 assists and 3.3 rebounds per appearance at the tourney. Later the guard took part at the AirTran Orlando Summer League. Reggie Hamilton appeared in just one game for the Indiana Pacers.


Imola Basket announce Rodolfo Valenti - by Eurobasket News

Imola Basket strengthened their roster. They agreed on terms of contract with Rodolfo Valenti (198-F-80). The deal is menat for one season. The forward spent the previous season with Trenkwalder. He averaged 8.5 points and 3.9 rebounds per game for the Reggio Emilia team. Previously Rodolfo Valenti had stints with Vanoli Cremona, Fabiano Basket, Caricento Cento, Sutor Montegranaro. Eurobasket.com named Rodolfo Valenti into Italian LegaDue All-Defensive Team in 2008. He was LegaDue champion in 2009. Rodolfo Valenti played for the Italian U20 National Team. The forward also attended Italian National B Team camp in 2002.


U18 European Championship: Serbia outscore Italy - by Eurobasket News

Serbia U18 - Italy U18 78:74

Serbia registered the first win at the Second Stage of U18 European Championship. They defeated Italy for 2-1 record in Group E. Nikola Radicevic (194-G-94) came up with 24 points to lead the winners. Italy slipped at 1-2 record after the loss.
Serbia jumped to an early lead. They eked out a 19:17 advantage ten minutes into the game. The Balkan team stretched the lead in the second quarter. They ensured a 40:33 halftime advantage. Serbia boosted the gap even more in the third term. They piled up a 62:47 advantage with one period remaining. Italy however refused to surrender. They cut the deficit to just two points with 15 seconds remaining 74:76. However Nikola Radicevic sank two free throws to seal the victory for Serbia. Nikola Jankovic (205-PF-94) tallied 14 points and 12 boards for the winners. Luka Andusic (191-G-94) and Nikola Cvorovic (197-G/F-94) had 10 points each for Serbia. Tommaso Laquintana (187-PG-95) answered with 15 points and 12 rebounds for Italy. Fontecchio netted 12 points, while Amedeo Tessitori (204-PF-94) provided 13 points and 10 rebounds in the loss.

Serbia U18: Nikola Radicevic 24, Nikola Jankovic 14+12 boards, Luka Andusic 10, Nikola Cvorovic 10
Italy U18: Tommaso Laquintana 15+12 boards, Amedeo Tessitori 13+10 boards


Reggie Hamilton is the new point guard of Libertas Pesaro - by Antonello Varallo

Libertas Pesaro announced the name of the point guard for 2012-2013: Reginald Lamont Hamilton.
Reggie Hamilton (180-PG-89) was born in Harvey, a small town in Cook County, Illinois, in 1989. He attended Thornwood High School, in South Holland, Illinois, then he joined University of MissouriKansas City. After two very good seasons, he asked to be released, and after the forced stop in 2009-2010 due to the NCAA rules, he joined Oakland Golden Grizzlies.
With Oakland, Hamilton scored 17.6ppg during the first season and 25.7 ppg during the second. During last season, he scored plus than 20 points in 22 games and he had a seson high of 40 points, scored against W.Illinois. He get Frances Pomeroy Naismith Award, a prestigious award given to the most outstanding senior who is 1.83 m or shorter.


Mitchell Poletti joins Orlandina Basket - by Antonello Varallo

Orlandina Basket announced the agreement for next season with Mitchell Poletti (205-F/C-88) . So far,Poletti is the fifth player hired by Orlandina, along Talor Battle, Otis George, Marco Passera and Matteo Palermo. Poletti began his career with Assigeco Casalpusterlengo, then he joined Banco di Sardegna Sassari and in 2008-2009 he played a good season with Fossombrone (A dilettanti, 26 games with 12.4 ppg and 7.8 rpg. After two years with Forl, the first in A Dilettanti and the second in Lega2, he joined Enel Brindisi at the beginning of last season, before moving back to Forl. He ended 2011-2012 with 9 ppg, and a season high of 16 points scored during the last game


Virtus Bologna talks with Ricky Minard, interested in Gerald Fitch? - by Pervin Elgin

The Italian club is looking for two Americans

Virtus Bologna is talking with Ricky Minard. The American SF finished last season in Serie A with Casale. If the deal with Bologna will be finalized, Minard would work again with Alex Finelli who coached him two seasons in Montegranaro. Virtus Bologna might be interested in Gerald Fitch too. Sabatini said that he is targeting a 'little crazy' player and the media reported the name of Mike Hall. But former Pesaro, Milano and Teramo PF denied to Sportando any talk. The name may be Fitch who spent last season with Unicaja Malaga and who has played in Italy already with Pallacanestro Cant.

Courtesy of sportando.net


*****************************************************
  KOSOVO   


Peja retakes Shaptahovic - by Dren Shporta

After only one year spent at Bashkimi, Samir Shaptahovic (174-G-81), is back at Peja, with whom he has won the Kosovo Cup in season 2010/11.

Shaptahovic was Bashkimis main player last year, but they could only manage fourth place in the league and surprisingly went to the Cup final, where they lost against Trepca.

After Artin Gashi, Bashkimi has lost another starting five member with Shaptahovic. Peja on the other hand is looking to create a championship team with these enforcements.



KB Bashkimi Prizren Brings in Philip Brooks - by Surujh Roopnarine

KB Bashkimi Prizren, last seasons 4th place finishers, have agreed to terms on a one-year contract with American guard Philip Brooks (188-G-84, college: Langston). Brooks, 27, is a 6-2 guard out of Garland, Texas who has played professionally in Germany, Spain, Syria and Macedonia during his four-year career. Last season he split the season between ABA Strumica and KK Kumanovo 2009 of Macedonia. In six contests with ABA Strumica Brooks averaged 21.0 points, 4.5 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.3 steals while connecting on 35-56 2FG and 9-29 3FG attempts. Brooks then moved to Kumanovo to finish out the season. Prior to Macedonia, Brooks starred in the Spanish EBA and Germany Regionalliga where he was an All-Star and top-scorer in both leagues.


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


U18 European Championship: Latvia back to winning ways with victory over Russia - by Eurobasket News

Latvia U18 - Russia U18 70:64

Latvia celebrated the third win at the U18 European Championship. The hosts held off Russian counterparts in Liepaja. Ilja Gromovs (207-C-94) scored 11 points and grabbed 8 rebounds to pace the winners.
Russia led by a single point after ten minutes of action 17:16. They stretched the lead in the second quarter. Russia arrived at halftime up by 3 points 33:30. But Latvia turned things around right after the big break. The hosts erupted for 27 points in the third term to surge ahead for a 9-point lead 57:48. Russia tried to bounce back as they trimmed the deficit to three points 63:66 with under a minute remaining. But Armands Ginters (193-F-95) and Geks converted four free throws to seal the victory for Latvia. Rihards Adins (203-F/C-94) posted 10 points, while Armands Ginters finished with 9 points for the winners. Mikhail Kulagin (188-G-94) answered with 14 points for Russia. Rostislav Karenin (201-F/C-94) and Serdar Annaev (185-PG-94) accounted for 10 points each in the loss.

Latvia U18: Ilja Gromovs 11, Rihards Adins 10, Armands Ginters 9
Russia U18: Mikhail Kulagin 14, Rostislav Karenin 10, Serdar Annaev 10


*****************************************************
  LEBANON   


Lebanon in the Jones Cup 2012 - by Asia-Basket Lebanon

The Lebanese National team will be participating in the Jones Cup from 18 till 26 August 2012 in Chinese Taipei, this will be Lebanons 3rd participation after 2007 & 2009, Lebanon finished 2nd in 07 and 3rd in 09. The Championship this year will have nine teams participating Mahram Club from Iran, South Korea, Chinese Taipei 1, Chinese Taipei 2, Jordan, Philippines, Japan, USA Tour Team.
The Lebanese Delegation will be missing many key players Like Fadi Khatib , Ali Mahmoud , Elie Rustom , Charles Tabet, but the LBF is hoping that this team can have a good tournament which will be a preparation for the FIBA ASIA Cup which will be held in Japan in September. Jarrid Famous joined the team yesterday and showed good signs for his first practice.

The Lebanese delegation will be consisting from:

Point guards: Rodrigue Akl, Carl Sarkis, Miguel Martinez
Shooting guards: Jean Abed El Nour, Elie Stephan, Nadim Souaid , Hussein Khatib , Ahmad Ibrahim
Centers: Ali Kanaan , Paul Iskandar , Rabih Iskandar , Jarrid Famous
Head Coach: Ghassan Sarkis

Leanons schedule will be as follows :

August 18 vs Mahram Club from Iran
August 19 vs South Korea
August 20 vs Jordan
August 21 vs Chinese Taipei 1
August 22 vs Chinese Taipei 2
August 23 vs Philippines
August 24 vs USA Tour Team
August 25 vs Japan


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


U18 European Championship: Lithuania trounce Ukraine to stay perfect - by Eurobasket News

Lithuania U18 - Ukraine U18 74:50

Lithuania registered the fourth straight win at the U18 European championship. The hosts fired past Ukraine for the opening win at the Second Stage of the tournament. Lithuania thus improved at 3-0 record on top of Group E. Ukraine slipped at 0-3 record.
Ukraine led by a single point ten minutes into the game 16:15. But Lithuania shook off sloppiness and surged ahead in the second quarter. The Baltic team posted a 35:28 halftime advantage. Lithuania stretched the lead to as many as 25 points at the final intermission. Ukraine cut the deficit by one point in the final frame before losing the encounter. Augustinas Jankaitis (202-C-94) posted 20 points, while Marius Grigonis (198-F-94) added 19 points in the victory. Vladyslav Koreniuk (206-C-94) and Yevgen Sakhniuk (201-PF-95) netted 12 points each for Ukraine. Boyarkin provided 10 points in the loss.

Lithuania U18: Augustinas Jankaitis 20, Marius Grigonis 19, Jokubas Gintvainis 9
Ukraine U18: Vladyslav Koreniuk 12, Yevgen Sakhniuk 12


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


Partizan brings in Jorge Gutierrez and Matias Bartolin for try-out - by Eurobasket News

Partizan officially announced that Jorge Gutierrez (190-G-88) and Matias Bartolin arrived to the club for try-out.
Jorge Gutierrez is Mexican point guard who graduated few months ago at the University of California. He had 13 ppg, 5.3 rpg and 4.1 apg for 33 games as a senior. He was named All-Pac-12 Player of the Year -12 and All-Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year -12. Gutierrez played for Denver Nuggets at 2012 NBA Summer League in Las Vegas. He had 2.3 ppg and 1.8 rpg in 4 appearances. Gutierrez is member of Mexican B National Team.
Matias Bartolin is 19-year-old Argentinean center.
Meanwhile, Partizan announced they started with preparations for the upcoming season. The team will play in Euroleague, Adriatic league, Serbian championship and Serbian Cup.


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


Interview with Sead Dizdarevic, founder of Basketball Diplomacy Camp and former player of Georgetown University - by Darko Pekic

The 5th annual Basketball Diplomacy Camp finished over a week ago and Eurobasket.com took the opportunity to do an interview with its founder, Sead Dizdarevic (206-F), former player of Georgetown University (2003-2007).

Hello Sead, could you tell us more about your youth career and how did it all start?

Hello, and thank you for reaching out to me. I started playing basketball at the age of 12, for the Basketball Club Jedinstvo, from Bijelo Polje. I played there until the age of 17, when I moved to the United States to complete the final year of high school. Playing for Jedinstvo was a unique and very useful experience for me. I was able to build a very strong basketball foundation, which allowed me to develop into a better player later in my career.

How did you decide to go to the United States? How hard it was to get used to a new culture and living conditions, considering that Bijelo Polje is small town in Nothern Montenegro. You moved to California which is an opposite to Bijelo Polje and lived in a host family.

The move to the United States was my familys idea. I moved to California on my 18th birthday, and it was a true cultural shock. However, living in Sacramento was a great experience and a great introduction to true American culture. I had a great host family that I still keep in touch with.

In Highlands High School you averaged 22 points, 14 rebounds, 1.5 blocks and four assists and led your team to its first appearance in the Northern California Sectional Finals in 20 years. Did you get a lot of calls from different universities and why did you choose Georgetown?

Playing for Highlands High School was a great experience, and the team had a great season. As the season progressed and as team found its rhythm, we ended up having the most successful season in 20 years. I did get a lot of calls, but once Georgetown University offered scholarship it was a no brainer. Georgetown has a great basketball tradition, but it is also a phenomenal educational institution.

In your first season with the Hoyas you had some nice performances, including four blocks and eight points vs. Grambling State in your first game for the Georgetown. How satisfied you were with your first year in a such famous school?

The first season at Georgetown we had a really young team, which was the main reason why we did not do as well as our school is used to. Also, since we as a team did not do well, I was not as satisfied with my performance.

But after the solid first season your minutes and contribution started decreasing. What actually happened and why you did not get more playing time during your college career?

After the first season, Coach Thompson III came in as a new coach, and we had a new incoming class. It was a new beginning for all, and I just did not fit in with Coach Thompsons system as the other guys did. Also, the new class had Jeff Green (206-F-86, college: Georgetown) and Roy Hibbert (218-C-86, college: Georgetown), who ended up playing in the NBA, so that did not help me as well.

You have played with NBA players Roy Hibbert, DaJuan Summers (203-F-88, college: Georgetown), Patrick Ewing Jr. (203-F-84, college: Georgetown) and Jeff Green and some well known names to basketball fans in the Adriatic League such as Brandon Bowman (204-F-84, college: Georgetown), Jeremiah Rivers (195-G-87, college: Indiana) and Jonathan Wallace (187-G-86, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Georgetown). You were coached by the legendary John III Thompson , won the Big East Tournament in 2007 and participated in the NCAA Final Four. Could you try to explain to Eurobasket.com readers how it feels to be a part of such a basketball program?

Playing for Georgetown has been an incredible experience. It did not only teach me great deal about basketball, but also about teamwork and what type of sacrifice you need to go through to benefit your team. After my first year, I did not play as much as I wanted to. But that was not a good reason for me to quit Georgetown and change schools. I knew that Georgetown education would provide me with opportunities other than basketball that would greatly benefit in my life. On the basketball court, I had a chance to compete with the world class athletes and coached by one of the best coaches in the country. So even though I did not play as much, it was a great experience both on and off the basketball court.

2007 season was one of the most successful seasons ever in Georgetown history. We won the regular season and conference tournament in the Big East, which was arguably the best conference in the United States at the time. We beat North Carolina in Elite 8, in the game that featured dozen future NBA players and one of the best games that I have ever seen. And in the last game that I wore Georgetown uniform, we played in front of 50,000 fans in the 2007 Final Four. Not many players can say that they had that type of basketball experience.

After your college career was over you tried to test your skills in Europe but it did not take you long to realize that destiny had prepared a different role for you in the world of basketball. Was it hard to give up on your dreams to become a professional basketball player and dedicate to something else, maybe not as rewarding as pro basketball career but very important for the community?

After Georgetown, I briefly played for the Basketball Club Lovcen, from Cetinje. However, after talking to my parents, I decided that it was in my best interest to stop playing professional basketball, and pursue other opportunities that were presented to me back in the United States. Upon my return to the United States, I completed masters degree from Georgetown University and decided to get into finance industry.

Ending my short but exciting professional career was really challenging. All of a sudden, I had to stop doing something I loved doing for majority of your life, and had to let go some of my biggest dreams. At the same time, I understood that I was not physically gifted to play on the level that I wanted to play at. Sometimes the hardest decision that you have to make is understanding your weaknesses and pursuing your strengths. However, basketball has been and always will be a very important part of my life.

In 2008 along with several of your former teammates (Ashanti Cook (188-G-84, college: Georgetown) , Darrel Owens (199-F/G), Amadou Kilkenny-Diaw (203-F/C) and Ramell Ross (196-G/F-82, college: Georgetown)) and one of your coaches- Matt Henry , you were able to bring the Hoyas to your home country- Montenegro. You conducted a series of basketball clinics in Herceg Novi. Could you tell us a few word about this event?

After my professional career, I founded the Basketball Diplomacy Camp. The main idea of the camp was to bring former players and coaches from Georgetown University to work with young student-athletes from the Balkans and explain what it means to be a true student-athlete. While in Montenegro, I was encouraged by some team officials to quit school and concentrate on basketball full time. That was one of the main reasons why my family decided to send me to the United States, where I was able to play competitive basketball but also receive great education.

We try to explain young student-athletes that it does not have to be either - or basketball and school. Those two should and have to go together. While it is pretty amazing to play basketball on a high level, it is also important to become an educated member of the society.

After the first year of the camp, with the support from the United States Embassy in Montenegro, the US State Department and Georgetown University, I was able to continue this camp for the next 5 years. We coached over 200 student-athletes from 8 different countries in the Balkans.

Georgetown University together with the United States Embassy in Podgorica organized this summer in Bar (Montenegro) the 5th annual Basketball Diplomacy Camp for approximately 50 boys and girls between the ages of 15 and 18. The camp finished few days ago. What are your impressions?

This years camp was again a great success. We had approximately 40 boys and girls from four different countries Albania, Kosovo, Macedonia and Montenegro. Besides basketball sessions, we also have leadership and volunteering workshops that are beneficial to our participants.

I am very grateful to the Embassy of the United States in Montenegro and Georgetown University for their support in helping me organize and execute these camps. I truly believe that they are teaching the athletes from the Balkans great deal on and off the basketball court.

Could you tell us a few of words about your plans for the future?

I definitely want to continue doing the Basketball Diplomacy camps in the Balkans and elsewhere because not only do we help the kids get better on the basketball court; I believe that we helped them understand what type of skills they are able to acquire by playing competitive sports (teamwork, sacrifice, perseverance, leadership) and use those skills to become productive members of the society.

Thank you Sead for the interview and keep doing the great work for the community!

Thank you.


Omar Cook joins National Team training camp - by Eurobasket News

Omar-Sharif Cook (185-PG-82, agency: Beo Basket, college: St.John's) joined preparations of the Montenegrin National Team for the upcoming 2013 EuroBasket qualifications. The player has one more year left in his contract with Montenegrin Basketball Federation. Team Montenegro already has one naturalized player Taylor Rochestie, who had some troubles with his knee earlier this summer, but he is fine now and he is expected to play in qualifications. However, Team Montenegro still wanted to have Cook in the final stage of preparations. Omar-Sharif Cook received Montenegrin citizenship four years ago. He played for Montenegro in 2009 European Championships Division B averaging 8 points, 4.5 assists, 3.3 rebounds and 2.2 steals. After that he added 7.8 ppg, 6.1 apg and 2.3 rpg for 8 games in Qualifications to European Championships 2011. Cook played for Montenegro last summer in Lithuania as well. He had 7.4 ppg, 4.2 apg and 2.2 rpg for 5 games at 2011 EuroBasket. Omar-Sharif Cook is currently a member of Italian Milano.


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


Lakers sign guard Meeks, forward Ebanks - by Diamadis Farmakis

Now that the Los Angeles Lakers, finished with their starting line-up (after the last addition of Dwight Howard), now it's time to fill the roster with players. In their effort to load their bench, the team of L.A. re-signed power forward Devin Ebanks on Monday and added free agent scoring guard Jodie Meeks (6'4''-G-87, college: Kentucky), as it was announced today by General Manager Mitch Kupchak. Per team policy, terms of the deals were not released.

*Meeks, a three-year veteran, appeared in 66 games last season with the Philadelphia 76ers, averaging 8.4 points and 2.4 rebounds in 24.9 minutes., as he has career averages of 8.1 points and 2.2 rebounds in 200 career games

*Ebanks, a second-round pick of the Lakers in 2010, played in 24 games last season and averaged 4.0 points, 2.3 rebounds and 16.5 minutes. Ebanks has career averages of 3.6 points and 1.8 rebounds in 44 games.


Doc Rivers, Gregg Popovich are top candidates to replace Mike Krzyzewski as Olympics coach - by Eurobasket News

Mike Krzyzewski has said he will step down after Team USA won its second consecutive Olympic gold medal with him leading the way as head coach. And it appears that Boston Celtics coach Doc Rivers and Gregg Popovich are two leading candidates to replace Krzyzewski on the bench, ESPN.coms Marc Stein reported Sunday. From Steins report:

Sources close to the situation told ESPN.com that Boston Celtics coach Doc Rivers and San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich have indeed already moved to the top of the list to take over in 2013 for Krzyzewski, who is expected to remain with the program as a top aide to Colangelo if he cant be convinced to extend his coaching tenure.

Sources say Louisville coach Rick Pitino has also expressed strong interest in the position, but the general expectation in USAB circles is that Krzyzewski will be succeeded by an NBA coach.

Nevertheless, program chairman Jerry Colangelo and USA players plan to try to convince Krzyzewski to stick around for one more shot.

Im sure we can get him to come back, Kevin Durant told Stein. But Colangelo wasnt as optimistic.

Chances are not, he said. But well have to have that conversation on an official basis. Hes said this is it and Ill respect his choice. But knowing me as I know me, Ill have that conversation and well see.

Courtesy of http://tracking.si.com


LeBron James unsure about playing in 2016 Rio Olympics - by Eurobasket News

After Team USA's gold-medal winning performance in the 2012 London Olympics, LeBron James (6'8''-SF-84) told USA Today's Jeff Zillgitt that he wasnt sure about playing in 2016.

Jeff Zillgitt
@JeffZillgitt LeBron James: "Its been a great run honestly. I dont know if Im going to be part of the 2016 team."

The point might be moot if David Sterns concept of only allowing players 23 years and under compete in 2016 becomes practice. James will be 31 in 2016. But coming off perhaps his finest all-around year of basketball - complete with an NBA championship, NBA Finals MVP award and an Olympic gold medal - theres little reason to believe James wouldnt be among the top veteran considerations for the team.

James is only a maybe at this point, but both Kobe Bryant and head coach Mike Krzyzewski have said they will not return in 2016.

If James did decide to play in 2016, he would be in a position to surpass both Bryant and Michael Jordan and win his third gold medal as a member of Team USA.

Courtesy of http://tracking.si.com


Team USA gets Gold in basketball - by Greg

By Raymond Rolak

LONDON-- The USA Basketball program sparkled at the 2012 London Olympics. USA brought an encore gold over Spain 107-100. Spain played with a stubborn and very capable resolve. The score did not indicate how strong Spains effort was. Even though USA had the edge 83-82 at the start of the fourth quarter they were pushed to the brink.
The final few minutes were dramatic. With 3:20 left and USA leading 97-91, Carmelo Anthony had to leave the game with an ankle twist. Kobe Bryant (198-SG-78), LeBron James (203-SF-84), Kevin Durant (206-SF-88, college: Texas), Kevin Love (208-PF-88, college: UCLA) and Chris Paul (183-PG-85, college: Wake Forest) were the finishers for Team USA. Spain still had the height advantage on the floor. A critical defensive lapse by Spain allowed James to drive the basket for two. James followed with a three on the next USA possession. Spains Marc Gasol put a vicious pick on Paul. Rudy Fernandez (198-SF-85) fouled out for Spain and that started the real end for any chance of Spanish gold.
After a driving layup by Paul with 51 seconds remaining, Coach Mike Krzyzewski showed some theatrics that we dont typically get to see from the legendary coach. It was 104-93 as Coach K was jumping for joy near the bench and as he substituted during the last minute. It was a team victory and everyone participated. Krzyzewski wanted to emphasize that. With 12 seconds left it was 106-100. James Harden (196-SG-89, college: Arizona St.) missed a USA free throw but made the second. Spain came down the court quickly for a three attempt. It missed and Anthony Davis (208-C-93, college: Kentucky) grabbed the final rebound.
It was a compelling and dramatic final game. Durant led all scorers with 30 points. Earlier, Russia beat Argentina 81-77 for the bronze medal.
Coach K said after, We beat a great team. My guys cooperated, everyone told me that they would do whatever was needed. Come off the bench, play defense, the cooperation was tremendous. The victory was dictated by the USA defense and the ability to lock-down the Spanish drives inside.
Krzyzewski had said earlier that this was his last Olympics. Another Chicago native son, USA Basketball chairman Jerry Colangelo, who hired Krzyzewski in 2005, isnt going to let him leave the program so easily. Colangelo plans to take another shot at persuading Krzyzewski to stay for one more attempt and coach the Rio, Brazil Olympic Games in 2016. Hes said this is it and Ill respect his choice, Colangelo said in London. But knowing me as I know me, Ill have that conversation and well see.
With the win, Krzyzewski joins Henry Iba (1964 and 1968) as the only U.S. coaches to lead teams to consecutive Olympic gold medals.


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

Stats Leaders - NCAA1

Points Per Game
 Patrick RICHARD
  McNeese .
  (193-G/F-90)
  Avg: 18.1
 1. Richard, McNeese18.1 
 2. Reed, Texas A.17.8 
 3. James, Lamar17.1 
 4. Miles, Cent.Ark.14.9 
 5. Miles, Lamar14.5 
 6. Jones, Texas A.13.8 
 7. Burrage, UTSA13.5 
 8. Davis, Northwes.13.3 
 9. Staff, Texas St.13.2 
 10. Johnson III, UT.13.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 William MOSLEY
  Northw.
  (200-C-89)
  Avg: 9.5
 1. Mosley, Northw.9.5 
 2. Johnson, SE Louis.7.9 
 3. Lamb, Lamar7.9 
 4. Staff, Texas St.7.9 
 5. Reves, Texas A.7.8 
 6. Dempsey, Texas A.7.1 
 7. James, Sam H.7.0 
 8. Hill, UTSA6.6 
 9. Turner, McNeese6.6 
 10. Bailey, SE Louis.6.3 
Assists Per Game
 Johnathan JORDAN
  Texas A.
  (178-G-92)
  Avg: 4.7
 1. Jordan, Texas A.4.7 
 2. Gatson, Sam H.4.5 
 3. Miles, Lamar4.1 
 4. Jones, Texas St.4.0 
 5. Patterson, SE Loui.3.7 
 6. White-Miller, Texa.3.6 
 7. Richard, McNeese3.2 
 8. Davis, Northwes.3.1 
 9. Hale, UTSA3.1 
 10. Gardner, SF Austin3.1 
Steals Per Game
 Laquentin MILES
  Cent.Ark.
  (196-G-)
  Avg: 2
 1. Miles, Cent.Ark.2.0 
 2. Patterson, SE Loui.1.9 
 3. Jones, Texas St.1.7 
 4. Lamb, Lamar1.7 
 5. Miles, Lamar1.7 
 6. James, Lamar1.6 
 7. Davis, Texas St.1.6 
 8. Franklin, UTSA1.6 
 9. Catlett, Texas A.1.5 
 10. Butler, Texas A.1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 William MOSLEY
  Northw.
  (200-C-89)
  Avg: 3.9
 1. Mosley, Northw.3.9 
 2. Reves, Texas A.1.8 
 3. Ebomwonyi, Lamar1.8 
 4. Maxey, Texas A.1.7 
 5. Staff, Texas St.1.4 
 6. Smith, SF Austin1.3 
 7. Borden, Cent.Ark.1.2 
 8. Richard, McNeese1.1 
 9. Turner, McNeese1.1 
 10. Johnson, SE Loui.1.0 


Appalachian State's Andre Williamson gets pro deal in Belgium - by Eurobasket News

Andre Williamson (6'7''-F-89) is set to start his professional basketball career. The American forward signed a 1-year deal with Belgacom Liege. The team competes in Belgian top division. Williamson is a product of Appalachian State University, where he graduated few months ago. He appeared 30 times for the school as a senior averaging 9.6 points and 7.2 rebounds. In his junior season Williamson has slightly lower numbers. For 31 games he collected 8.7 ppg and 6.3 rpg. Two years ago Andre Williamson reached Southern Conference Tournament Finals with Appalachian State. That season he had 4.6 pg and 5.6 rpg for 37 games. They were also Southern Conference regular season champions in Division North.


Argentino signs first import - Maurice Bolden - by Eurobasket News

Maurice Bolden (208-G/F-89, agency: Strategic Sports, college: S.Mississippi) will start his professional basketball career in Argentina. The American big guy signed a deal with Argentino de Junin. Bolden is a product of Southern Mississippi University, where he spent last three seasons. In the latest one the player had 9.7 ppg and 5.2 rpg in 34 games. He helped Southern Mississippi to reach C-USA Tournament Semifinals and the school was C-USA regular season runner-up as well. In 2010, they were also stopped in C-USA Tournament Semis. That year Bolden had 8.7 ppg and 5.9 rpg in 34 games.
Earlier this year, Maurice Bolden spent some time with UBA team GIE Morrow Disciples. He helped them win UBA title. His new team Argentino de Junin reached TNA Finals last season. They will compete in LigaA 2012/13.


NCAA upholds Cronin reprimand - by Eurobasket News

Cincinnati head coach Mick Cronin has been publicly reprimanded for misconduct during the 2012 Division I Men's Basketball Championship.

Specifically, the Division I Mens Basketball Committee said Cronin used profane and abusive language toward a game official following Cincinnatis regional semifinal contest against Ohio State. As a result, the committee decided to issue a public reprimand to Cronin.

The committee originally assessed the reprimand and Cincinnati appealed the decision to the Administrative Committee of the NCAA Division I Championships/Sports Management Cabinet. The Administrative Committee reviewed relevant materials, correspondence and statements made during the appeal hearing before making its final decision to uphold the reprimand.

Unfortunately, Coach Cronins postgame actions were not consistent with the expectations that the committee has for participants in the championship, said Jeff Hathaway, chair of the Division I Mens Basketball Committee and director of athletics at Hofstra. The committee has been and will continue to be supportive of high standards of sportsmanship and fair play for all tournament participants. Anything short of this does not serve participants or fans, the championship or the sport in a positive manner.

Courtesy of www.ncaa.com


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  NCAA2   


Murken named Minot State coach - by Eurobasket News

Minot State athletic director Rick Hedberg introduced Matt Murken as Minot States head mens basketball coach Wednesday during a press conference at the Beaver Dam in the MSU Student Center.

Murken, a native of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is an 11-year veteran of the collegiate coaching ranks and has been the head coach at Jamestown College for the past two seasons.

We are very pleased to have Matt joining us at Minot State University to lead our mens basketball program, Hedberg said. He was very impressive in the interview process and comes highly recommended. Matt has a diverse background: he has six years of experience in the Northern Sun as an assistant, one year at a junior college and now two years of experience as a head coach at the college level.

His record as a head coach is outstanding. That is a solid background and I think he can hit the ground running. With the guys we have coming back, those that were red-shirted and the guys we have coming in; we are looking forward to our first year in the NSIC.

Murken was named the Dakota Athletic Conference Coach of the Year in 2011-12 after leading the Jimmies to a No. 11 national ranking and the NAIA Division II national tournament. He was 46-16 in two seasons at JC, coaching three NAIA All-Americans, the DAC Most Valuable Player and five All-DAC performers.

It has been a goal of mine to coach at the [NCAA] Division II level and in the best conference in the country. There were many different factors involved with this decision, but being familiar with the conference made it easier to get involved in this process at this time of the year, Murken said. There are certainly some challenges to being successful there are a lot of great teams with a lot of great coaches but I think it is nice to be challenged on a game-by-game basis. It only forces you to get better.

Minot State received over 80 applications before narrowing down to four on-campus interviews conducted last week. The hiring procedure was pushed forward quickly due to the timing of the open coaching position, but Hedberg was pleased with how the university handled the process.

The hiring process was accelerated due to it being mid-summer, but I was very pleased with the quality of candidates, Hedberg said. Any of the four we brought on campus could have done the job. The process went as well as we could have expected, and we are excited to have Matt move the program into the Northern Sun and NCAA Division II.

While Murken indicated he had a long list of things he wants to get accomplished in a short time, he felt getting to know the current Minot State players is paramount.

Right away I need to build a relationship with our guys, he said. College basketball is a grind and you have to have that foundation of trust and an expectation level of what Im going to demand. And, there is a lot of excitement for the jump to the NSIC and to the NCAA and we need to get as many people on board with that.

In 2003, Murken began as a graduate assistant at Wayne State College in Wayne, Neb., and while pursuing a masters degree from WSC. Murken was promoted to assistant coach at WSC in 2004 and served as the teams recruiting and academic coordinator. During his time at WSC he successfully recruited the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference Freshman of the Year and five NSIC All Conference players in four years. As academic coordinator, his teams had a cumulative GPA of 3.0-plus over a four-year span.

Murken spent one season at Des Moines Area Community College, finishing with a 22-7 record in 2009-10 before taking the Jamestown College coaching position.

He holds a Masters of Science in education from Wayne State College and a Bachelor of Science in secondary education from Concordia University in Seward, Neb. Murken played basketball for Concordia University, twice being named to the NAIA Academic All-America Team.

Courtesy of www.ncaa.com


Boschee hired to lead Bemidji State - by Eurobasket News

Athletic Director Dr. Rick Goeb announced Wednesday the hiring of Mike Boschee as mens basketball coach at Bemidji State. Boschee is a 22-year veteran in the coaching profession, most recently as the head coach at Central (Iowa).

Mike is a great fit for the mens basketball program at Bemidji State University, Goeb said. He is extremely well respected in basketball circles. Hes developed winning traditions at Central College and Gustavus and hes done the it the right way, with quality student-athletes.

We are very fortunate to have Mike Boschee as our new basketball coach.

Boschee replaces Matt Bowen, who resigned in May after a six-year tenure (2006-12) capped by a program-best 22 wins and BSUs second appearance in the Division II tournament.

My family and I are thrilled to be apart of Bemidji State and the community, Boschee said. Im honored Rick and the BSU administration have chosen me to lead the program into the future. This is an exciting time to continue building a tradition of good basketball with people who are committed to being successful.

I look forward to meeting everyone associated with Bemidji State University, especially our current players. They are what coaching is all about and I cant wait to starting working with them.

Boschee completed his ninth season as head coach at Central (Iowa) in 2011-12 and guided the Dutch to an 18-8 overall record and a 10-6 mark in Iowa Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (IIAC) play to finish fourth in the league standings. Producing a .500 record or better in four of the past five seasons, he compiled a 115-115 career record at Central (third all-time in wins) after inheriting a program that failed to reach .500 in the eight seasons previous to Boschee stepping on campus. He led the Dutch to a 14-10 record in 2007-08, the first winning campaign in 12 seasons, before establishing a program record for wins in a season in 2009-10.

Boschee and the Dutch posted a 23-5 record that year and brought the first outright IIAC championship to the Central campus in 25 years. In addition to the league championship, the squad made its ninth appearance in the Division III tournament after winning the programs first IIAC Tournament championship. At the conclusion of the season, Boschee was rewarded for his efforts and was named coach of the year in the IIAC, Iowa Basketball Coaches Association and D3hoops.com West Region.

Under Boschee, 17 student-athletes earned all-conference laurels, including a conference most valuable player, while three team members were named academic all-conference. He also recruited and guided the schools all-time assist, 3-point and field goal percentage leaders. In addition, he served as an instructor in exercise science at Central.

Prior to his time at Central, Boschee served as an assistant mens basketball coach at Gustavus Adolphus from 1993 to 2003. During his tenure for the Gusties, the team posted Division III tournament bids in seven seasons, including a national runner-up performance in 2003. Gustavus totaled a 221-83 record, won four conference tournaments and two regular-season conference championships during Boschees 10 seasons. He also served as the womens golf coach from 1995 to 2003 and guided the Gusties to their first national tournament appearance in 2003. He was named womens golf coach of the year by the Minnesota Womens Collegiate Golf Association (MWGCA) in 1998 and by the conference in 2000 and 2003. Boschee also served as a instructor in the Department of Health and Exercise Science at Gustavus.

Courtesy of www.ncaa.com


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  NCAA3   


Central (Iowa) hires Douma as new head coach of program - by Eurobasket News

After piloting high school teams to eight conference titles in the past 12 years, Craig Douma is looking to build on the Central (Iowa) championship tradition as its new head coach.

Douma, a two-time NAIA all-America honoree at Northwestern College, was the coach at Carroll High School the past six years after spending the previous nine seasons at South OBrien High School in Paullina. He compiled a lofty 268-78 (.774) record over 15 seasons, including a 123-32 (.793) mark at Carroll, where he piloted state tournament squads in 2007, 2009 and 2010 and reached the substate round five times in six seasons. His teams claimed conference titles in 2007, 2008, 2010 and 2011. At South OBrien, Doumas squads were league champs in 2001, 2002, 2003 and 2004. He was the Class 2A Northwest District coach of the year in 2000-01 and took Class 3A Southwest District honors in 2006-07. Before becoming a high school coach, Douma spent the 1996-97 season as assistant coach at Northwestern.

Im excited, Douma said. I have the utmost respect for Central. Its a premier Division III school in Iowa and in the Midwest, and its got a rich basketball tradition with great potential. Central is also really in line with our familys values.

He replaces Mike Boschee, who resigned in July after nine seasons to become the head coach at Bemidji State.

One of the things that excites us about Craig is that he has a track record of being extremely successful everywhere hes been, both as an athlete and as a coach, said interim athletics director Eric Van Kley. His work ethic as a player was legendary, and if you talk to coaches who have followed his coaching career, theyll tell you that hasnt changed. Hes an intense competitor who knows how to win, and how to do it with integrity.

Were delighted to welcome Craig, Jen and their three boys to the Central College family.

Douma notes that he inherits a healthy program. The Dutch captured the 2010 Iowa Conference title and earned a Division III tournament berth. Centrals nine NCAA appearances are the most of any league school and the Dutch have 16 conference titles. Central returns 11 letterwinners from last years 18-8 squad.

Coach Boschee played an up-tempo style and we want to continue that, Douma said. We want the program to get to the level where were competing for conference championships year-in and year-out. And the next step beyond that is to go deep into the national tournament.

But right now, this year is whats important. Weve got a great team coming back and our goal will be to improve on last year and take a step up.

Its going to be a fun journey. Im excited to get to know these young men. Weve only got one year to be with some of these guys and I want to make the most of that.

Douma is also known for working with thousands of young players through the B.E.S.T. Shooting School. Hes helped lead the program each summer since 1998.

Through coaching and through his instruction, Craig is very well connected, Van Kley said. He is tremendously respected by other coaches in Iowa and beyond.

Douma cherishes the time he gets to spend with his players.

Im a passionate guy and I love the game of basketball, he said. I want to provide the players with a great role model and I want to have a strong relationship with them. Ill always have an open-door policy and I want the players to know that Im a coach who cares about them. Thats been true everywhere Ive coached.

As a player, Douma is the third-leading scorer in Northwestern history with 2,276 points and is a member of the Red Raider Hall of Fame. He played in three NAIA Division II national tournaments, helping the Red Raiders finish second in 1992 and reach the final eight in 1994. The Nebraska-Iowa Athletic Conference player of the year in 1994, Douma was a second-team all-America pick in 1993 before earning first-team recognition in 1994, when he also served as Northwesterns team captain. Northwestern, like Central, is affiliated with the Reformed Church in America.

His father, Les Douma, was a long-time high school and college coach, serving as Northwesterns head coach from 1981-90, posting a 158-104 record. He also was the schools athletics director.

Preparing players for life after graduation is a priority.

We want to develop great student-athletes who are going to go out and contribute to society in a positive fashion, and play some good basketball on top of it, Douma said

Douma knows he faces challenges, but hes already started attacking them.

Im a competitor, he said. To do any job well, youve got to work hard. Thats what Im going to do.

Courtesy of www.ncaa.com


Tournament format change expected - by Eurobasket News

The Division III Management Council has approved a new format for the 2013 mens basketball championship to accommodate the Division III championship game being played in conjunction with the 75th mens basketball celebration being held in Atlanta.

The one-time format change calls for single games to be played at individual campus sites on Saturday, March 2, followed by second-round games at campus sites the following Saturday and third-round contests on Saturday, March 16. Quarterfinalists will compete in Salem, Va., on March 22 and then those winners will play semifinal games on March 23. The two winners will head to Atlanta two weeks later to be part of the Big Dance.

The Presidents Council has to sign off on the new format at its Aug. 9 meeting in Indianapolis before it becomes official.

Its a different approach than the current format that brackets the field in regional pods of two or four teams for first- and second-round games the first Thursday through Saturday after selections, followed by four, four-team sectionals the next weekend.

Its also different than a proposal the Division III Mens Basketball Committee submitted earlier that called for a one-week delay between selections and first-round pod play.

The format changes became necessary when the NCAA decided to stage all three divisions mens finals on the same weekend to celebrate the 75th year of NCAA mens basketball championships in 2013. The Division I Mens Final Four semifinals and final will be April 6 and 8 in the Georgia Dome as previously planned. But given the celebratory nature of the anniversary, Divisions II and III were invited to conduct their championship games that weekend, too. Both the DII and DIII finals will be on Sunday, April 7, in nearby Philips Arena. A back-up plan will be developed to accommodate any school with a policy that precludes competition on Sunday.

While Division III embraced the unique opportunity to join the most high-profile stage in college sports, it required a different tournament format, since the 2013 Division III championship game will be two weeks later than it would have been under the current formula.

The Division III Mens Basketball Committee had the first opportunity to suggest how best to mitigate the gap. Based on feedback from the Division III members of the National Basketball Coaches Association, the committee at its June meeting proposed a week off between the selection date and the first and second rounds, which would have maintained the pod structure the division is accustomed to on that first weekend of play. That would have been followed by single games on Saturday, March 16, instead of the customary four-team sectionals.

The committee saw several advantages in the one-week delay, including more time for teams to secure travel arrangements.

Mens basketball committee members considered the single-game approach for that first weekend, but they thought it would be too similar to just another regular-season game, especially for geographically remote teams that could possibly end up facing a conference foe they just played in their league championship game. The basketball committee thought a tournament-style first round would provide a better experience for participating teams.

But the Division III Championships Committee, which conducted a conference call a few weeks later, thought the basketball committees recommendation had too many consequences, not the least of which is that it would guarantee more teams playing longer than usual. Championships Committee members said that could pose problems for institutions that use their basketball facilities to accommodate spring sports teams. In addition, it could compromise basketball players who also participate in a spring sport.

The Championships Committee also was concerned about how the delay might push the tournament into more schools Spring Breaks, which could create on-campus housing and meal problems for some schools.

The Division III Management Council, which met Monday and Tuesday in Indianapolis, agreed with the Championships Committee that conducting single games at campus sites over the three Saturdays immediately following selections was a better approach.

The decision doesnt mean that the mens basketball committees recommendation was off base, Management Council chair and Redlands Athletic Director Jeff Martinez said. On the contrary, that group was looking out for the best interests of the tournament, per its charge. They believed their recommendation kept the tournament most closely aligned with the format Division III has been accustomed to playing.

But the Championships Committee, and ultimately the Management Council, was troubled by the one-week delay that pushed everything back and magnified an already compressed transition from basketball to spring sports for more schools. We felt those issues outweighed what the basketball committee was rightfully trying to protect.

Martinez said the single-game approach has benefits for the tournament, too. He noted the fact that the new format, while it abandons the pod system for this year, makes the best of a challenging situation by creating more home games in the first and second rounds, which should enhance the experience for more teams.

It also retains the benefit the basketball committees recommendation offered, which is that eight teams rather than four will enjoy the first-class experience at Salem.

Salem has been a tremendous experience for our finalists ever since the city began hosting that event, Division III Mens Basketball Committee chair and Pacific (Ore.) Athletic Director Ken Schumann said. The opportunity to have four more schools experience that is another real positive that came out of the joint 2013 championship.

Neither recommendation affected the selection date, which was of utmost importance to all Division III stakeholders, since moving that would have impacted conference tournaments and perhaps even the timing of the playing and practice season.

It was a case of there not being a perfect solution that addressed the extended timeline for this one tournament, Martinez said. But when we balanced all of the factors involved, we believe we settled on the right outcome that protects the tournament experience and keeps to a minimum the issues schools might face because of a new format.

The key was to take advantage of a unique opportunity to give our two finalists and the division overall more exposure on basketballs biggest stage without compromising the tournaments preliminary rounds or the experience for the student-athletes who participate in them.

Courtesy of www.ncaa.com


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  OLYMPIC GAMES   

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Patrick MILLS
  AUS
  (183-PG-88)
  Avg: 21.5
 1. Mills, AUS21.5 
 2. Durant, USA19.5 
 3. Ginobili, ARG19.4 
 4. Gasol, ESP19.1 
 5. Scola, ARG18.0 
 6. Kirilenko, RUS17.5 
 7. Anthony, USA16.3 
 8. Barbosa, BRA16.2 
 9. Deng, ENG15.8 
 10. Parker, FRA15.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jianlian YI
  CHN
  (212-PF-87)
  Avg: 10.2
 1. Yi, CHN10.2 
 2. Mejri, TUN10.0 
 3. Ben Ghnia, TUN8.6 
 4. Nene, BRA8.0 
 5. Gasol, ESP7.6 
 6. Love, USA7.6 
 7. Kirilenko, RUS7.5 
 8. Varejao, BRA7.0 
 9. Deng, ENG6.6 
 10. Freeland, ENG6.6 
Assists Per Game
 Pablo PRIGIONI
  ITA
  (191-PG-77)
  Avg: 6.5
 1. Prigioni, ARG6.5 
 2. Huertas, BRA6.0 
 3. Shved, RUS5.9 
 4. James, USA5.5 
 5. Jasikevicius, LTU5.3 
 6. Paul, USA5.1 
 7. Kalnietis, LTU4.8 
 8. Williams, USA4.6 
 9. Deng, ENG4.6 
 10. Dellavedova, AUS4.5 
Steals Per Game
 Chris PAUL
  (183-PG-85)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Paul, USA2.5 
 2. Kirilenko, RUS1.9 
 3. Prigioni, ARG1.8 
 4. Nielsen, AUS1.8 
 5. Ben Ghnia, TUN1.8 
 6. De Colo, FRA1.7 
 7. Durant, USA1.6 
 8. Ginobili, ARG1.6 
 9. Deng, ENG1.4 
 10. James, USA1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Salah MEJRI
  TUN
  (217-C-86)
  Avg: 3.4
 1. Mejri, TUN3.4 
 2. Yi, CHN2.2 
 3. Kirilenko, RUS1.8 
 4. Batum, FRA1.5 
 5. Ibaka, ESP1.3 
 6. Gasol, ESP1.3 
 7. Seraphin, FRA1.3 
 8. Jankunas, LTU1.0 
 9. Nene, BRA1.0 
 10. Newley, AUS0.8 


Eurobasket.com All-Olympic Games Awards 2012 - by Eurobasket Center

Eurobasket.com All-Olympic Games 1st Team
#s#
LeBron James
James
Alexey Shved
Shved
Emanuel Ginobili
Ginobili
Kevin Durant
Durant
Pau Gasol
Gasol
#e#5

MVP: LeBron James (203-SF-84) of USA
Best Guard: Emanuel Ginobili (198-SG-77) of Argentina
Best Forward: LeBron James (203-SF-84) of USA
Best Center: Pau Gasol (214-F/C-80) of Spain
Best Coach: David Blatt of Russia

1st Team
G: Alexey Shved (198-88) of Russia
SG: Emanuel Ginobili (198-77) of Argentina
SF: LeBron James (203-84) of USA
SF: Kevin Durant (206-88) of USA
F/C: Pau Gasol (214-80) of Spain

2nd Team
PG: Marcelinho Huertas (191-83) of Brazil
PG: Patrick Mills (183-88) of Australia
SF: Carmelo Anthony (203-84) of USA
F: Andrei Kirilenko (209-81) of Russia
F/C: Luis Scola (204-80) of Argentina

3rd Team
PG: Chris Paul (183-85) of USA
PG: Tony Parker (188-82) of France
SF: Nicolas Batum (203-88) of France
PF: Jianlian Yi (212-87) of China
C: Marc Gasol (216-85) of Spain

Honorable Mention
Kevin Love (208-PF-88) of USA
Leandrinho Barbosa (190-PG-82) of Brazil
Vitaliy Fridzon (196-G-85) of Russia
Carlos Delfino (200-SF-82) of Argentina
Pablo Prigioni (191-PG-77) of Argentina
Joe Ingles (203-SF-87) of Australia
Linas Kleiza (203-SF-85) of Lithuania
Luol Deng (206-F-85) of England
Salah Mejri (217-C-86) of Tunisia
Mahdi Ben Ghnia (203-F/C-87) of Tunisia


Team USA gets Gold in basketball - by Eurobasket Center

By Raymond Rolak

LONDON-- The USA Basketball program sparkled at the 2012 London Olympics. USA brought an encore gold over Spain 107-100. Spain played with a stubborn and very capable resolve. The score did not indicate how strong Spains effort was. Even though USA had the edge 83-82 at the start of the fourth quarter they were pushed to the brink.
The final few minutes were dramatic. With 3:20 left and USA leading 97-91, Carmelo Anthony had to leave the game with an ankle twist. Kobe Bryant (198-SG-78), LeBron James (203-SF-84), Kevin Durant (206-SF-88, college: Texas), Kevin Love (208-PF-88, college: UCLA) and Chris Paul (183-PG-85, college: Wake Forest) were the finishers for Team USA. Spain still had the height advantage on the floor. A critical defensive lapse by Spain allowed James to drive the basket for two. James followed with a three on the next USA possession. Spains Marc Gasol put a vicious pick on Paul. Rudy Fernandez (198-SF-85) fouled out for Spain and that started the real end for any chance of Spanish gold.
After a driving layup by Paul with 51 seconds remaining, Coach Mike Krzyzewski showed some theatrics that we dont typically get to see from the legendary coach. It was 104-93 as Coach K was jumping for joy near the bench and as he substituted during the last minute. It was a team victory and everyone participated. Krzyzewski wanted to emphasize that. With 12 seconds left it was 106-100. James Harden (196-SG-89, college: Arizona St.) missed a USA free throw but made the second. Spain came down the court quickly for a three attempt. It missed and Anthony Davis (208-C-93, college: Kentucky) grabbed the final rebound.
It was a compelling and dramatic final game. Durant led all scorers with 30 points. Earlier, Russia beat Argentina 81-77 for the bronze medal.
Coach K said after, We beat a great team. My guys cooperated, everyone told me that they would do whatever was needed. Come off the bench, play defense, the cooperation was tremendous. The victory was dictated by the USA defense and the ability to lock-down the Spanish drives inside.
Krzyzewski had said earlier that this was his last Olympics. Another Chicago native son, USA Basketball chairman Jerry Colangelo, who hired Krzyzewski in 2005, isnt going to let him leave the program so easily. Colangelo plans to take another shot at persuading Krzyzewski to stay for one more attempt and coach the Rio, Brazil Olympic Games in 2016. Hes said this is it and Ill respect his choice, Colangelo said in London. But knowing me as I know me, Ill have that conversation and well see.
With the win, Krzyzewski joins Henry Iba (1964 and 1968) as the only U.S. coaches to lead teams to consecutive Olympic gold medals.


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  POLAND   


U18 European Championship: Germany open win count in Latvia and Lithuania - by Eurobasket News

Germany U18 - Poland U18 64:54

Germany registered the first win at the U18 European Championship. They knocked down Poland to improve at 1-0 record in classification round Group G. Malik Mueller (188-G-94) scored 11 points to lead the winners.
Germany started the game strongly. They secured a 23:14 lead after ten minutes of action. Poland stopped the rot in the second term. They narrowed the deficit and arrived at halftime trailing by just 3 points 34:37. Poland held Germany to only 5 points in the third quarter and surged ahead for a 44:42 lead. But Germany went on a decisive 22:10 run in the final stanza and snatched a tough win at the end. Dominic Lockhart (197-F-94) produced 10 points, while Johannes Thiemann (203-F-94) had 9 points for the winners. Jakub Garbacz (196-SF-94) answered with 14 points for Poland. Damian Jeszke (202-PF-95) netted 8 points in the loss.

Germany U18: Malik Mueller 11, Dominic Lockhart 10, Johannes Thiemann 9
Poland U18: Jakub Garbacz 14, Damian Jeszke 8


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


U18 European Championship: Portugal edge Georgia in Sarajevo - by Eurobasket News

Portugal U18-Georgia U18 81:59

Portugal edge Georgia in Sarajevo at the U18 European Championship in Division B. Portugal won 81:59 and finished fourth with 2-2 record in Group D. Georgia meanwhile lost all four games and finished on the last spot.
Portugal erupted with 27-12 in the first period and never looked behind after. They produced 21-15 in the second frame and enjoyed 48:27 lead after two quarters. In the second half the teams exchanged narrow wins for the final victory of the Portuguese team.
Pedro Marques (173-PG-95) top-scored for the winners with 19 points and Isaias Insaly (197-F/C-95) added 16 points and 11 caroms. Pedro Bastos (186-PG-94) finished the game with 15 points and Diogo Ventura (189-PG-94) nailed 8. Beka Burjanadze (203-PF-94) ended up with 20 points and 14 rebounds in the losing case, whilst Nugzar Abuladze (182-G-95) netted 12. Nika Ramishvili (179-SG-94) delivered 10 and Giorgi Tsirekidze (202-C-94) notched 8.

Portugal U18: Pedro Marques 19, Isaias Insaly 16+11 rebs, Pedro Bastos 15, Diogo Ventura 8
Georgia U18: Beka Burjanadze 20+14 rebs, Nugzar Abuladze 12, Nika Ramishvili 10, Giorgi Tsirekidze 8


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


John Ofoegbu signs with U Mobitelco Cluj-Napoca - by Eurobasket News

U Mobitelco Cluj-Napoca reinforced its roster under the basket. The team signed a deal with John Ofoegbu (206-C-84, college: Idaho St.). The American center spent last season with Bulgarian Yundja Yambol. He appeared 33 times in the NBL averaging 15.9 points and 8.9 rebounds. Ofoegbu was third rebounder of the competition and he was named Eurobasket.com All-Bulgarian League Center of the Year -12. He helped the team to reach Playoff Semifinals and Cup QFinals. The player also participated at the NBL All-Star Game. Before Tundja Yambol, John Ofoegbu played one year for the Swiss team SAM Basket Masagno. There he had 14.1 ppg and 9.9 rpg for 27 games. The player also has experience from Mexico, Germany and Czech Republic. He graduated at Idaho State University in 2007.


Miercurea Ciuc adds two players - by Eurobasket News

Perla Harghitei Miercurea Ciuc added Jonathan Dupre (203-F-87, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav, college: Pepperdine) and Franko Filipovic (203-F-87, agency: Kotnik Sports Agency) for the upcoming season.
Jonathan Dupre is American forward who missed 2011/12. He spent some time with the NBA D-League team Maine Red Claws, but did not appear in any official game with them. Dupre graduated at Pepperdine University a year ago. He had 5.1 ppg and 2.7 rpg for his school in 24 games as a senior. Last summer Dupre participated at the Eurobasket Summer League in Houston. He shined with 9 ppg, 7 rpg and 2.3 apg for 3 games with Team Okinawa.
Franko Filipovic arrives to his new club from Croatian Skrljevo. They competed in A2 league last season. Before Skrljevo, Filipovic had 10.2 ppg and 4.1 rpg for Kvarner in 23 A1 league games in 2010/11 season. In the past, he played for Cedevita and Borik Puntamika.


Summer Time - by Marcel Jones

Summer Time

Blessings come in all forms shapes and sizes.. My latest blessing has come in the form of having an opportunity to play basketball for Pitesti in Romania. I have just arrived here in Romania on August 7th and so far we have been working very hard. This season Pitesti has steped into the very competitive Eurochallenge Competition and everyone is excited to bring this European competition to the city of Pitesti. With a great opportunity like this, us as a team have to be ready to take advantage of the challenge. Along with the Domestic league and the defending our National Cup, the Eurochallenge brings expsore and a credibility tha speaks for itself.

My time here so far has been all business. We know what is at stake and we to perform well everytime we step onto the court. Everyone has come in with a good mentality because in the pre season is where we will all get better and fevelop team chemistry.

A typical day consists of running, running and more running. I have never sweated so much in my life. I also have never drank so much water in my life until now but its part of the job and I wouldnt change it for anything.

During my brief summer at home I worked hard to be ready for my next opportunity. Shout out to all the players that I came across or worked out with this summer. A friend of mine to told that a lot of players think that they are working hard but really are not. Make sure your not one of those players becuase your only hurting yourself. Push yourself to be better.

Shout out to al the ball players playing at every level around the world. If you have a goal, by any means make sure you obtain it... NO EXCUSES

Congrats to Jared Cunningham of Oregon State Univeristy, 2012 First Round Pick of the Dallas Mavericks.

I will check back in when our preseason is over and give updates on our progress as a team.

Marcel Jones


U18 European Championship: Israel clinch Elite Eight appearance - by Eurobasket News

Israel U18-Romania U18 100:50

Israel clinch Elite Eight appearance of the U18 European Championship in Division B. The team finished second in Group A with 4-1 record after a 100-50 win. Romania meanwhile fell at 2-3 record.
Israel dominated the court for the whole time and rightfully clinched the victory. They won the first period 29-7 and added 23-15 in the second period. Moreover Israel produced a 24-16 in the third stanza and finished the game with 24-12 in the last quarter. Geffen gave his team three-digit number at the end of the game.
Egor Koulechov (194-SF-94) paced all the winners with 16 points and Rafael Menco (201-SF-94, agency: Avi Zilberman) posted 13. Maxim Kikus (191-SG-94, agency: Avi Zilberman) delivered 12, while Yariv Amiram (203-PF-94) netted 11. Mehmet Hortoglu (192-SG-95) answered with 12 points in the losing effort, whilst Mirel Dragoste (180-PG-95) and Vlad Cobzaru (201-C-95) brought 9 apiece.

Israel U18: Egor Koulechov 16, Rafael Menco 13, Maxim Kikus 12, Yariv Amiram 11
Riomania U18: Mehmet Hortoglu 12, Mirel Dragoste 9, Vlad Cobzaru 9


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  RUSSIA   


U18 European Championship: Latvia back to winning ways with victory over Russia - by Eurobasket News

Latvia U18 - Russia U18 70:64

Latvia celebrated the third win at the U18 European Championship. The hosts held off Russian counterparts in Liepaja. Ilja Gromovs (207-C-94) scored 11 points and grabbed 8 rebounds to pace the winners.
Russia led by a single point after ten minutes of action 17:16. They stretched the lead in the second quarter. Russia arrived at halftime up by 3 points 33:30. But Latvia turned things around right after the big break. The hosts erupted for 27 points in the third term to surge ahead for a 9-point lead 57:48. Russia tried to bounce back as they trimmed the deficit to three points 63:66 with under a minute remaining. But Armands Ginters (193-F-95) and Geks converted four free throws to seal the victory for Latvia. Rihards Adins (203-F/C-94) posted 10 points, while Armands Ginters finished with 9 points for the winners. Mikhail Kulagin (188-G-94) answered with 14 points for Russia. Rostislav Karenin (201-F/C-94) and Serdar Annaev (185-PG-94) accounted for 10 points each in the loss.

Latvia U18: Ilja Gromovs 11, Rihards Adins 10, Armands Ginters 9
Russia U18: Mikhail Kulagin 14, Rostislav Karenin 10, Serdar Annaev 10


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  SCOTLAND   


U18 European Championship: England wins Group A - by Eurobasket News

England U18-Scotland U18 95:39

England wins Group A of the U18 European Championship in Division B. The team overcame Scotland 95:39 for 5-0 record on top. Scotland meanwhile finished the group without victories.
England was the favorite before the game and proved their ambitions throughout it. They started the game with 28-5 and added 20-10 in the second half when Stivrins and Rowan exchanged the late baskets. England was better also in the third frame with 21-15 surge. Moreover they won the last stanza 26-9 for a comfortable win.
Elliott Sentance (191-SG-94) paced all the winners with 16 points and Tamas Okros (196-SF-95) as well as Dwayne Orija (193-SG-95) poured in 12 apiece. Rowell Graham (197-F-94) followed them with 10 points in a win. Joshua McGilvray (201-C-95) finished the game with 12 points in defeat and Matthew Wilcox (196-PF-94) had 7.

England U18: Elliott Sentance 16, Tamas Okros 12, Dwayne Orija 12, Rowell Graham 10
Scotland U18: Joshua McGilvray 12, Matthew Wilcox 7


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  SEBL   


Columbus Storm-City B-League Champions - by Marcus Tate

Columbus Storm coached by Irvin Barnett defeated the Bartow Braves in the City B-League Championship game Sunday evening. Bartow Braves got off to a strong start in the first quarter led by Zeek Reed who scored 7 quick points which forced the Storm to a timeout and substitutions. As time went on, the Braves slowly lost momentum being outscored by 12 points in the 2nd quarter. Braves could not find an answer for guards Josh Spears (6'3''-G) and Ralph Miller who both dominated offensively and defensively for the majority of the game. The deficit for the Braves spread even more after half time as the Storm run away with the win. 105-74.

This marks the first Championship title for the Columbus Storm. Josh Spears was named MVP for the City B-League averaging 18.7 points a game.




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  SERBIA   


U18 European Championship: Serbia outscore Italy - by Eurobasket News

Serbia U18 - Italy U18 78:74

Serbia registered the first win at the Second Stage of U18 European Championship. They defeated Italy for 2-1 record in Group E. Nikola Radicevic (194-G-94) came up with 24 points to lead the winners. Italy slipped at 1-2 record after the loss.
Serbia jumped to an early lead. They eked out a 19:17 advantage ten minutes into the game. The Balkan team stretched the lead in the second quarter. They ensured a 40:33 halftime advantage. Serbia boosted the gap even more in the third term. They piled up a 62:47 advantage with one period remaining. Italy however refused to surrender. They cut the deficit to just two points with 15 seconds remaining 74:76. However Nikola Radicevic sank two free throws to seal the victory for Serbia. Nikola Jankovic (205-PF-94) tallied 14 points and 12 boards for the winners. Luka Andusic (191-G-94) and Nikola Cvorovic (197-G/F-94) had 10 points each for Serbia. Tommaso Laquintana (187-PG-95) answered with 15 points and 12 rebounds for Italy. Fontecchio netted 12 points, while Amedeo Tessitori (204-PF-94) provided 13 points and 10 rebounds in the loss.

Serbia U18: Nikola Radicevic 24, Nikola Jankovic 14+12 boards, Luka Andusic 10, Nikola Cvorovic 10
Italy U18: Tommaso Laquintana 15+12 boards, Amedeo Tessitori 13+10 boards


Dragan Tubak signs in Belgium, joins Aleksandrov - by Eurobasket News

Dragan Tubak (217-C-87) will continue his career in Belgium. The Serbian center signed a deal with VOO Verviers-Pepinster, according to Lavenir.net. This past weekend, the team landed Nemanja Aleksandrov (210-C/F-87). Tubak arrives to his new club from Radnicki Basket. Last season he appeared 35 times with them averaging 5.4 points and 3.3 rebounds in A League and Superleague. In 2010/11, Tubak had almost the same numbers. The team was Serbian B League runner-up a year ago and they won the promotion for A League. Before Radnicki Basket, Dragan Tubak spent 2009/10 season with FMP II, where he also played in 2006/07. Meanwhile he played for Borac Cacak two years. In 2007 and 2008, Tubak was on the list of candidates for the Bosnian National Team.


Partizan brings in Jorge Gutierrez and Matias Bartolin for try-out - by Eurobasket News

Partizan officially announced that Jorge Gutierrez (190-G-88) and Matias Bartolin arrived to the club for try-out.
Jorge Gutierrez is Mexican point guard who graduated few months ago at the University of California. He had 13 ppg, 5.3 rpg and 4.1 apg for 33 games as a senior. He was named All-Pac-12 Player of the Year -12 and All-Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year -12. Gutierrez played for Denver Nuggets at 2012 NBA Summer League in Las Vegas. He had 2.3 ppg and 1.8 rpg in 4 appearances. Gutierrez is member of Mexican B National Team.
Matias Bartolin is 19-year-old Argentinean center.
Meanwhile, Partizan announced they started with preparations for the upcoming season. The team will play in Euroleague, Adriatic league, Serbian championship and Serbian Cup.


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  SLOVENIA   


U18 European Championship: Gregor Hrovat lifts Slovenia past Bulgaria - by Eurobasket News

Slovenia U18 - Bulgaria U18 84:81

Slovenia registered the first win at the Second Stage of U18 European Championship. They overcame Bulgaria to improve at 1-2 record in Group F. Bulgaria in the meantime slipped at 2-1 record. Gregor Hrovat (196-G-94) scored 27 points to lead the winners.
Slovenia led by just a single point 24:23 after ten minutes. Bulgaria erased the deficit and pulled ahead for a 44:42 halftime lead. Bulgaria drew things level after the third term. The teams entered the final stanza tied at 55. But Slovenia exploded with 29 points in the fourth quarter and sealed the victory at the end. Matic Rebec (180-PG-95) provided 19 points, while Aleksej Nikolic (185-G-95) contributed 15 points for the winners. Aleksandar Vezenkov (205-SF-95) answered with 31 points for Bulgaria. Nikolay Stoyanov (195-SF-94) notched 19 points in the loss.

Slovenia U18: Gregor Hrovat 27, Matic Rebec 19, Aleksej Nikolic 15
Bulgaria U18: Aleksandar Vezenkov 31, Nikolay Stoyanov 19


Slovan adds Span, Skofja Loka inks Abramovic, Krivec moves to Kvarner - by Zeljko Zule

Slovan continued its roster building process by inking U-20 national team member Jan Span (189-PG-92) for the upcoming season. Span arrives from Maribor, where he averaged 9.5 points, 1.7 rebounds and 1.8 assists in 25 Telemach League games. Span spent the summer representing the Slovenian national team at U-20 EuroBasket, where he posted 2.7 points and 1.2 assists in 9 games.
LTHcast Skofja Loka added a high-scoring force to its backcourt with the signing of Robert Abramovic (185-G-88). He arrives from side League Two side Terme Olimia Podcetrtek, for whom he averaged 18.4 points, 2.8 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 1.5 steals per game last season.
Former Krka's guard Bojan Krivec (188-G-87) has joined Croatian side Kvarner on a one year deal. Krivec last season averaged 1.9 points and 1.8 assists in 12 EuroChallenge games, 4.6 points, 1.8 rebounds and 2.3 assists in 24 Adriatic League games and 3.1 points, 1.7 rebounds and 2.4 assists in 16 Telemach League games. Krivec had been at Krka for eight professional seasons where he won three Slovenian Championships, two Slovenian Supercups and the FIBA EuroChallenge Cup once.


Helios signs young Gezim Morina - by Eurobasket News

Gezim Morina (204-C/F-92) will continue his career in Helios Domzale. The news is confirmed by Helios director Gorjan Lado. Morina arrives to his new club from Hopsi Polzela, where he finished last season. The 21-year-old PF/C appeared 6 times for Polzela averaging 7.8 points and 5.2 rebounds. He started the season with Union Olimpija getting the chance in 7 games (Slovenia, Adriatic league, Euroleague), but with very limited playing time. Gezim Morina played for LTHcast Mercator Skofja Loka in 2010/11 collecting 8.6 ppg and 4 rpg for 19 games. In the past, he played for Union Olimpija juniors. Gezim Morina helped U20 Slovenia this summer to win the bronze medal at U20 EuroBasket. The player had 7.2 ppg and 4.5 rpg for 6 games at this event. A year ago he participated at Slovenian League All-Star Game.


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  SPAIN   


Pedro Rivero is the first signing of Lucentum Alicante - by Natxo Mendaza

After the announcement of Josep Maria Berrocal as head coach, Lucentum Alicante revealed today the name of the first player of the roster for the upcoming season in LEB Gold: Pedro Rivero (186-PG-79). Rivero spent last season in UCAM Murcia, where he averaged 2.9ppg and 1.1apg in 21 games. He joined Murcia two seasons ago, promoting to ACB League in 2010-11. Rivero has played 3 full seasons in ACB overall; first, with Cajasol Sevilla (2008-09), later with CAI Zaragoza (2009-10) and last with UCAM Murcia. It's expected that Lucentum Alicante will announce the next signings in the next few days, as Shaun Green (203-F-87, college: Utah) already confirmed that he will join the team through his twitter account.


Aurteneche Maquinaria adds Martin Buesa - by Natxo Mendaza

Current LEB Silver Cup winner Aurteneche Maquinaria officially announced the signing of Martin Buesa (202-F/C-88) for the upcoming season. Buesa, born in Vitoria, had a few stints in the ACB League with Caja Laboral, winning a league title two years ago. Buesa spent last season in UPV Alava, farm team of Caja Laboral, playing the EBA League and averaging 16.7 points, 9 rebounds and 17.2 index rating per game.


U18 European Championship: Spain open Second Stage with win - by Eurobasket News

Spain U18 - Greece U18 65:52

Spain recorded the fourth straight win at the U18 European Championship. They defeated Greece at the start of the Second Stage. Oriol Pauli (201-G-94) scored 15 points to lead the winners. Greece fell at 0-3 record in Group E after the loss.
The Hellenes got to the better start. They ensured a 12:11 lead ten minutes into the game. Spain denied the deficit in the second quarter. The reigning champions eked out a 28:27 halftime lead. Spain stretched the lead in the third quarter. They secured a 3-point lead at the final intermission 45:42. Spain cleared off in the fourth stanza. They held Greece to 10 points and rallied to a comfortable victory at the end. Juan Saiz (204-PF-94) finished with 11 points, while Ilimane Diop (209-C-95) added 10 points for the winners. Dimitrios Agravanis (208-F-94, agency: FCM) answered with 13 points for Greece. Alexandros Mitsialos (204-SF-94) netted 9 points in the loss.

Spain U18: Oriol Pauli 15, Juan Saiz 11, Ilimane Diop 10
Greece U18: Dimitrios Agravanis 13, Alexandros Mitsialos 9


Burgos extend Marcus Vinicius Toledo - by Eurobasket News

Autocid Ford Burgos extended the contract of Marcus Vinicius Toledo (203-F-86). The Brazilian forward will enter the third straight season with the team. Last season Marcus Vinicius Toledo posted 7.6 points, 5.4 boards and 1.6 assists per game in LEB Gold. Previously the forward had spells with Manresa, Pujol Lleida, Tarragona, LHospitalet, Hebraica and Club Atletico Monte Libano. He has been the member of Brazilian National Team since 2008. Marcus Vinicius Toledo participated at 2012 South American Championship. The forward notched 3.6 points and 2.4 rebounds per game in Argentina.


Lamont Barnes pens deal with Estudiantes - by Eurobasket News

Estudiantes bolstered their frontcourt. They agreed on terms of contract with Lamont Barnes (208-F/C-78, college: Temple). The centre inked a 1+1 contract. Lamont Barnes spent the previous season with Lucentum Alicante. He tallied 8.4 points, 5.7 rebounds, 1.2 steals and 1.0 block per game in ACB. Previously Lamont Barnes had stints in Valladolid, Fuenlabrada, Lukoil Akademik, Leon Caja Espana, Vojvodina, Criollos de Caguas, Czarni Slupsk, Yakama Sun Kings, Dijon, Grand Rapids, Ragusa and Scafati.


Jhornan Zamora leaves Valladolid for Venezuelan Trotamundos - by Eurobasket News

Jhornan Zamora (196-G-89) will continue is career in Venezuela. The 23-year-old player left Valladolid and will sign a deal with Trotamundos de Carabobo. The Venezuelan guard had limited playing time with Valladolid last season. He appeared only 10 times in Liga Endesa averaging 2.9 points and 1.1 rebounds. Before Valladolid, Zamora spent two years with Clinicas Rincon. For 29 games in 2010/11 season the player had 9.7 ppg, 3.2 rpg and 2.2 apg in LEB Gold. Jhornan Zamora played for Valladolid also in the past. This summer Zamora helped Venezuelan National Team to win the silver medal at South American Championships in Chaco (Argentina). He had 5.8 ppg, 1.2 rpg and 1.2 apg for 5 games at this event. It was his debut with Team Venezuela. Zamora played for their youth National Teams in the past.


Alicante inks experienced PG Pedro Rivero - by Eurobasket News

Alicante announced signing of experienced Pedro Rivero (186-PG-79) for the next season. He will replace Pedro Llompart at position 1. Rivero arrives to Alicante from UCAM Murcia, where he had 2.9 ppg and 1.1 apg for 21 Liga Endesa games. He also played for Murcia in 2010/11 helping them to win the LEB Gold title. The PG had 9 ppg, 3.3 apg and 1.8 rpg in 34 games and was named to Eurobasket.com All-Spanish LEB Gold 2nd Team -11. He was also awarded with Eurobasket.com Spanish LEB Gold All-Domestic Players Team -11. In 2010, Pedro Rivero won LEB Gold title with CAI Zaragoza. He helped the club with 6.3 ppg, 2.8 apg and 2.6 rpg in 34 games. In the past, Rivero played for Cajasol, Los Barrios, Tenerife, Leon and Caceres. He also has experience from Real Madrid II.


Caceres adds Antonio Pena to roster - by Eurobasket News

Antonio Pena (203-F-86, college: Villanova) stays in Spain for the next season. The American forward signed a 1-year deal with Caceres. Pena is not a new face in LEB Gold as he played last season in this competition. He had 10.1 ppg and 3.9 rpg in 34 games with La Palma. It was his first professional deal. This summer, Pena spent some time with Dominican Republic team Reales de La Vega.
Antonio Pena is a product of Villanova University, where he graduated something more than a year ago. The player had 9.8 ppg and 7.1 rpg for 33 games as a senior. In his junior season Pena collected 10.5 ppg and 7 rpg, also for 33 appearances. His numbers from 2007 to 2009 were lower. Antonio Pena helped Villanova to reach NCAA Sweet 16 four years ago.


Gran Canaria lands Brazilian Paulo Prestes for 2012/13 - by Eurobasket News

Gran Canaria continues with signings for the upcoming season. Their new member is Brazilian center Paulo Prestes (210-C-88), who penned a 1-year deal today. He played for the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2012 NBA Summer League in Las Vegas. For 5 games Prestes had 5.4 ppg and 5.8 rpg. Last season the bug guy finished with Lithuanian team Pieno Zvaigzdes Pasvalys. He joined them in February averaging 6.9 points and 5.5 rebounds for 11 games in LKL. Prestes had slightly lower numbers in 4 Baltic league appearances. In 2010/11 season Paulo Prests played for Granada registering 7.3 ppg and 5.3 rpg in 34 games. Before that he played for Murcia, Clinicas Rincon, Unicaja Malaga and COC Ribeirao Preto. In 2010 NBA Draft he was selected as 45th overall pick by the Wolves. Paulo Prestes played for the Brazilian National Team in 2006, 2007 and 2009.


Ourense signs Alfonso Sanchez - by Eurobasket News

Alfonso Sanchez (200-G/F-87) is a new member of Ourense. The Spanish swingman signed a deal for the next season. Most recently Sanchez played for Lagun Aro GBC. It was in 2010/11 season, when the player had 3 ppg for 25 games. He missed 2011/12. Before Lagun Ago, Alfonso Sanchez spent one year with Xacobeo BluSens Obradoiro. With them he had 5.1 ppg, 2 rpg and 1.2 apg for 30 games in ACB. In the past, Sanchez spent few years with Unicaja. In 2004/05 season the player averaged 6.4 points, 3.4 rebounds and 2.9 assists for 10 Euroleague appearances. After that he spent some time on loan to Axarquia, Clinicas Rincon and Alicante. In 2009 with Alicante the player won LEB Gold Playoffs and promotion to ACB.


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  TURKEY   

Stats Leaders - D1

Points Per Game
 Jonathan GIBSON
  Trabzonspor
  (182-PG-87)
  Avg: 19.9
 1. Gibson, Trabzonspor19.9 
 2. Chatman, Karsiyaka18.3 
 3. Reynolds, Antalya18.3 
 4. Brown, Trabzonspor18.1 
 5. Scales, Mersin17.4 
 6. Toolson, Aliaga17.3 
 7. Fisher, Antalya17.2 
 8. Sneed, Mersin16.9 
 9. Grundy, Mersin16.9 
 10. Washington, Turk16.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Elton BROWN
  Trabzonspor
  (206-C-83)
  Avg: 12.2
 1. Brown, Trabzonspor12.2 
 2. Stimac, Olin Edirne9.9 
 3. Sanders, Hacett.8.9 
 4. Mensah-Bonsu, Bes.7.8 
 5. McGhee, Bandirma.7.8 
 6. Wesson, Erdemir7.6 
 7. Buckman, Tofas7.6 
 8. Sonkol, Aliaga7.3 
 9. Yucel, Turk T.7.0 
 10. Dagli, Besiktas6.9 
Assists Per Game
 Mire CHATMAN
  Karsiyaka
  (187-PG-78)
  Avg: 6.4
 1. Chatman, Karsiyaka6.4 
 2. Ermis, Banvit BK5.8 
 3. Ratkovica, Aliaga5.3 
 4. Tunceri, Anadolu5.1 
 5. Senturk, Erdemir4.9 
 6. Gordon, Galatasaray4.5 
 7. Arroyo, Besiktas4.4 
 8. Washington, Turk T.4.4 
 9. Fisher, Antalya4.4 
 10. Reynolds, Antalya4.4 
Steals Per Game
 Vincent GRIER
  Mersin
  (195-G/F-83)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Grier, Mersin2.1 
 2. Robinson, Trabzons.2.1 
 3. Bryan-A., Hacett.2.0 
 4. Chatman, Karsiyaka1.9 
 5. Grundy, Mersin1.7 
 6. Gordon, Galatasaray1.6 
 7. Scales, Mersin1.4 
 8. Hawkins, Besiktas1.4 
 9. Guler, Turk T.1.4 
 10. Ermis, Banvit BK1.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Charles DAVIS
  Banvit BK
  (202-F-84)
  Avg: 1.3
 1. Davis, Banvit BK1.3 
 2. Bryan-A., Hacett.1.3 
 3. Robinson, Erdemir1.1 
 4. McGhee, Bandirma.1.0 
 5. Gist, Fener.Ulker0.9 
 6. Bayav, Karsiyaka0.9 
 7. Aldemir, Galatasar.0.9 
 8. Qvale, Aliaga0.8 
 9. Turkyilmaz, Banvit0.8 
 10. Mensah-Bonsu, Be.0.8 


TB2L Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Tyrone NELSON
  Akhisar Bld
  (206-F-85)
  Avg: 21.7
 1. Nelson, Akhisar Bld21.7 
 2. Jackson, Balikesir19.4 
 3. Gray, Baskent18.9 
 4. Carter, Tire Gucu18.4 
 5. Waller, Gaziantep18.3 
 6. Delic, Genc Telekom18.2 
 7. Pilgrim, Pamukkale17.8 
 8. Taggart, TED I.16.4 
 9. Dobie, Selcuk Univ.16.0 
 10. Senol, Pamukkale15.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Charles JACKSON
  Balikesir
  (203-F-87)
  Avg: 11.6
 1. Jackson, Balikesir11.6 
 2. Nelson, Akhisar Bld11.5 
 3. Pilgrim, Pamukkale10.3 
 4. Kolaric, Istanbul.10.0 
 5. Gray, Baskent9.7 
 6. Pasco, Vestel8.9 
 7. Can, Pertevniyal8.4 
 8. Taggart, TED I.8.2 
 9. Ozseven, TED I.8.0 
 10. Ozdemir, Vestel7.8 
Assists Per Game
 Admir KAN
  Istanbulspor
  (185-G-83)
  Avg: 6.4
 1. Kan, Istanbulspor6.4 
 2. Eryuz, Gaziantep5.2 
 3. Sinanoglu, Final G.5.2 
 4. Rizvanoglu, Genc T.5.1 
 5. Bayraktar, Tire G.5.0 
 6. Eris, Istanbul B.B.5.0 
 7. Bayrak, Usak4.6 
 8. Yikilmaz, Pertevni.4.5 
 9. Ogut, Genc Telekom4.4 
 10. Senol, Pamukkale4.3 
Steals Per Game
 Matthew PILGRIM
  Pamukkale
  (203-F-87)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Pilgrim, Pamukkale2.8 
 2. Yavuklu, Basken.2.5 
 3. Akcay, Balikesir2.0 
 4. Nelson, Akhisar Bld1.9 
 5. Carter, Tire Gucu1.7 
 6. Okkali, Final Genc.1.6 
 7. Mentese, Gelisim1.6 
 8. Waller, Gaziantep1.6 
 9. Jackson, Balikesir1.5 
 10. Dobie, Selcuk Uni.1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Ersan OZSEVEN
  TED I.
  (205-F-83)
  Avg: 1.3
 1. Ozseven, TED I.1.3 
 2. Washington, Gelisim1.3 
 3. Gray, Baskent1.3 
 4. Cevik, Selcuk Univ.1.3 
 5. Pasco, Vestel1.2 
 6. Tekin, Pertevniyal1.2 
 7. Brown, TED I.1.1 
 8. Pilgrim, Pamukkale1.1 
 9. Kaplan, Gaziantep1.0 
 10. Boswell, Tire Gucu0.9 


Galatasaray, Ataman gets rid of Jaka Lakovic - by Pervin Elgin

The Slovenian goes to Istanbul

In a TV Show, coach Ergin Ataman got rid of Jaka Lakovic. The new head coach of Galatasaray said that Lakovic is not useful in his system and the Turkish club already asked to Lakovic's agents to find a new team for the PG.
But Jaka Lakovi, who has one more year on his contract with Galatasaray, on Twitter announced his departure for Istanbul to join Galatasaray training camp.

Courtesy of sportando.net


Ergin Ataman says Jaka Lakovic is not useful in his system - by Eurobasket News

Ergin Ataman (agency: Beo Basket) clearly wants to bring in new point guard to Galatasaray. In a TV Show the Turkish specialist said he doesn't believe that Jaka Lakovic (186-G-78) will be useful in his system and the team already asked his agent to find him a new club, according to TBL in English. However, the Slovenian PG has one more year left in his contract and announced his departure for Istanbul to join Galatasaray training camp.
Jaka Lakovic arrived to Galatasaray last summer from Regal Barcelona. He appeared 19 times in Euroleague averaging 9.9 points, 2.7 assist and 1.8 rebounds. Galata played in Top 16 and was close to reach the Quarterfinals in its Euroleague debut. In TBL, Galatasaray was the regular season champion, but later they failed to Besiktas in the Semifinals. Lakovic had 10.5 ppg, 2.9 apg and 1.7 rpg for 35 games in Turkey. As mentioned above, before Galatasaray the Slovenian PG played for Barcelona. In the past, he spent few years with Panathinaikos.


U18 European Championship: Croatia show no mercy beating Turkey - by Eurobasket News

Croatia U18 - Turkey U18 78:62

Croatia recorded the fourth straight win at the U18 European Championship. They defeated Turkey at the start of the Second Stage of the tournament. Croatia improved at 3-0 record on top of Group F. Dario Saric (208-F-94) stayed pivotal for Croatia producing 26 points and 10 rebounds.
Turkey stunned Croatia in the first quarter. Turkey went on a 19:11 run to surge ahead. Croatia stopped the bleeding in the second quarter. They narrowed the deficit to get within 4 points at halftime 29:33. Croatia held Turkey to just 9 points in the third stanza to spur ahead for a 46:42 lead at the final break. Croatia unleashed 32 points in the fourth quarter to claim another comfortable win at the end. Jakov Mustapic (193-G-94) posted 16 points, while Mislav Brzoja (196-F/G-94) contributed 14 points in the winning effort. Burak Yildizli (202-PF-94) answered with 15 points for Turkey. Cedi Osman (195-SG-95) and Kenan Sipahi (198-PG-95) chipped in 11 points apiece in defeat.

Croatia U18: Dario Saric 26+10 boards, Jakov Mustapic 16, Mislav Brzoja 14
Turkey U18: Burak Yildizli 15, Cedi Osman 11, Kenan Sipahi 11


Cedric Banks joins Turk Telekom - by Eurobasket News

Turk Telekom bolstered their backcourt. They agreed on terms of contract with Cedrick Banks (190-G-81, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: Ill.-Chicago). The guard arrives from France. He spent the last season with Entente Orleans 45. Cedrick Banks notched 14.4 points, 3.5 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 1.2 steals per game in ProA. Eurobasket.com named the guard into All-French ProA 3rd Team. Previously Cedrick Banks had stints with Limoges, Maccabi Rishon Le-Zion, Nancy, Besancon and Nebraska Cranes. Eurobasket.com named Cedrick Banks All-French ProB Player of the Year in 2006. He was also trumped USBL Rookie of the Year in 2005. Cedrick Banks also earned All-French ProA Honourable Mention in 2010.


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  U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS   


Le Mans signs Victor Cuthbert - by Eurobasket News

Cuthbert Victor (197-F-83, college: Murray St.) will continue his career in France. The 29-year-old forward signed a deal with Le Mans, according to French media (Catch-and-shoot.com). Cuthbert arrives to the club from Spartak Primorie Vladivostok, where he had 13.1 ppg and 7.5 rpg for 16 Russian league games last season. The player also added 13.5 ppg, 5.5 rpg and 2.5 spg for 2 appearances in EuroChallenge qualifications. Cuthbert Victor played for Menorca from 2009 until the last summer. Before that he was a member of Melilla and CAI Zaragoza.
Cuthbert Victor is active member of the US Virgin Islands National Team since 1999. Last summer he led USVI to gold medal at CentroBasket in Nassau (Bahamas). Cuthbert shined with 16.6 ppg, 8 rpg, 2.4 apg and 2 spg for 5 games at this event. He was named Latinbasket.com All-CBC Championships Best Player -11.


Boys Dem Take Game One of NBBA Finals, 90-88 - by David Edole

By Dave Davis August 13, 2012

Boys Dem outlasted Guidance, 90-88, in a hard-fought first game of the New Breed Basketball League 2012 finals on Saturday at the Ronald Charles Gymnasium on the Central High Campus. The teams battled like two heavyweights throwing haymakers, staggering the opponent, but neither could not deliver the knockout blow. One team would gain the advantage only to see the other storm back moments later.

Boys Dem started fast and had the advantage early, and led by Zomari Swanston (193-G/F) with seven first-quarter points, they outscored Guidance, 25-14, to lead by 11 after one.

Guidance came out swinging in the second quarter, however, with Jerome Nathaniel hitting back-to-back three-pointers and Ryan Rawlins scoring seven in the period to help their team outscore Boys Dem, 27-17, to trail by just one at, 42-41, heading into the locker room at the half.

Zomari Swanston and Wilson Ferrance (191-G) exploded for 12 and 10 points respectively for Boys Dem in the third period, but their tally was neutralized by a balanced attack from Guidance, who was able to knot the game at 70 by taking the third period, 29-28.

The scene was now set for what was arguably one of the leagues best finishes of the year. Urged on by their respective fans, both teams let it all out on the court. Back and forth they went, shot for shot. Boys Dem got a bit of breathing room on a couple of occasions by going up four points or so, but back came Guidance to take a lead of their own.

With less than a minute to play, Boys Dem led by two at 87-85, but there was Nathaniel again hitting a clutch three to give his team a one point lead, 88-87. Kadeem Jones (94) then dissected the Guidance defense for a tough layup and a one point lead for Boys Dem, 89-88.

Guidance failed to score on their next trip down the court and was forced to foul Ferrance with about three seconds left. Ferrance hit one of two and Guidances last-ditch desperation shot fell way short as they lost the opener, 90-88.

Zomari Swanston led Boys Dem with 27 points and nine rebounds. He got good support from Ferrance who finished with 19 points, Jones 15, and brother, Rasheed Swanston (196-F-95), chipped in with 13.

For Guidance it was Mr. Everything, Nathaniel, leading the way with a game-high 31 points. Rawlins, Joelfri Polanco and Charles Sealy each had 12 points, and Stephaun Adams knocked down 10.

The action continues on Monday at the RCG, but while Guidance will be reinforced by their off-island players, Boys Dem will be losing their No. 1 ball handler and floor general, Kadeem Jones, who will be heading back to school on the mainland on Monday.

Its a big loss, but we will just have to adjust, said coach Keith Zoro Swanston. I have a few people who I can put at the point; we will see what happens.


Raja Bell Graduating from FIU/ Jason Edwin does the same - by David Edole

NBA star Raja Bell (196-F/G-76, agency: Interperformances, college: FIU) will graduate this summer 13 years after his stellar basketball career at FIU.

The son of educators, Bell, who most recently played for the Utah Jazz, promised his parents that he would finish his college degree regardless of his successful career. His wife Cindy Greenman 97, a former FIU soccer player, is also a former teacher.

Bell will be among 3,171 graduates receiving their diplomas this summer, most of them participating in one of six commencement ceremonies taking place Monday, Aug. 13, and Tuesday, Aug. 14, at the U.S. Century Bank Arena, located at FIUs Modesto Maidique Campus, 11200 S.W. 8th St. in southwest Miami-Dade County.

He will receive his bachelors degree in recreation and sport management during the first ceremony at 10 a.m. on Monday. Bell is among the many FIU students graduating this summer who have distinguished themselves. Some have excelled at research, while others have made their mark in academics and in the community.

These graduates highlight the kind of determination and dedication that so many of our students possess, said FIU President Mark B. Rosenberg. At commencement, we celebrate the hard work that brought our students to this point and the bright future ahead, now that they have the tools to do good and do well. For most of our graduates, this degree will allow them to pursue their dreams and create a better life for themselves and their families.

Bell, who began his undergraduate career at FIU in 1995 and later left to pursue a basketball career, was able to get past the obstacles and complete what he started with the help of Professor Robert Wolff, program director of Recreation and Sport Management. Among his challenges: adapting to changes in degree requirements since he left campus, and figuring out a schedule that would accommodate the demands of his career.

If I didnt have Dr. Wolff in my corner, supporting me and urging me on, this would never have gotten done, Bell said. Hes really been a mentor for me. It was a priority for him, and he was excited when it became a priority for me.

With his college degree, he is setting an example for his three young sons in a family for which education is essential. Bell is proud, too, of finishing his degree, and of his connection to FIU, the place where he met his wife and many of his best friends, and where he returns each summer to prepare for the coming season.

http://news.fiu.edu/2012/08/basketball-star-raja-bell-trades-uniform-for-fiu-cap-and-gown/43140

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KENT, Ohio After leaving Kent State to pursue careers in professional basketball, three former Golden Flashes' standouts were back in the classroom this summer. Jason Edwin (197-G/F-81, college: Kent St.) (2003-05), Al Fisher (2007-09) and Chris Singletary (2006-10) each completed the final credit hours needed to earn their bachelors degree.

"I can not say enough how proud I am of these guys," said Kent State Head Coach Rob Senderoff. "Finishing their degrees is something that was really important to them and their families. As a coach I get a great deal of satisfaction out of seeing former players that are already successful professional athletes dedicate themselves to putting in the work to fulfill a lifelong aspiration of being a college graduate. It means more than all the wins our program has achieved."

Edwin played two seasons for the Golden Flashes after beginning his collegiate career at Saint Louis University. A native of Warsaw, Ill., he averaged 10 points per game for his career and earned honorable mention all-conference honors in 2005. Following Kent State he began his professional career in Mexico and most recently averaged 17.5 points per game for the Gaiteros de Zulia team in Venezuela.

"I want to say a heartfelt thank you to Kent State University," said Edwin. "My dreams could not have been completed without this opportunity. I also want to give a special thanks also to the coaching staff for making this happen. Their generosity and assistance would never be forgotten."


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  UKRAINE   


Cherkasy sign Jeremy Wise - by Eurobasket News

Cherkasy deepened their backcourt. They signed contract with Jeremy Wise (191-G-86, agency: Strategic Sports, college: S.Mississippi). The guard started the last season in Israel. He played for Maccabi Haifa. Jeremy Wise notched 7.0 points, 2.7 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 1.0 steal per game in Premier League. In December Jeremy Wise moved to D-League. The guard joined Bakersfield Jam. His stats read 14.0 points, 6.2 assists, 3.9 rebounds and 1.2 steals per appearance. Later Jeremy Wise moved to Trotamundos de Carabobo in Puerto Rico. The guard averaged 8.0 points, 2.0 assists and 1.5 steals per game in LPB. Jeremy Wise finished the season in Dominican Republic. He played for Caneros de La Romana. Previously the guard had stints in Italy, Philippines and D-League.


U18 European Championship: Lithuania trounce Ukraine to stay perfect - by Eurobasket News

Lithuania U18 - Ukraine U18 74:50

Lithuania registered the fourth straight win at the U18 European championship. The hosts fired past Ukraine for the opening win at the Second Stage of the tournament. Lithuania thus improved at 3-0 record on top of Group E. Ukraine slipped at 0-3 record.
Ukraine led by a single point ten minutes into the game 16:15. But Lithuania shook off sloppiness and surged ahead in the second quarter. The Baltic team posted a 35:28 halftime advantage. Lithuania stretched the lead to as many as 25 points at the final intermission. Ukraine cut the deficit by one point in the final frame before losing the encounter. Augustinas Jankaitis (202-C-94) posted 20 points, while Marius Grigonis (198-F-94) added 19 points in the victory. Vladyslav Koreniuk (206-C-94) and Yevgen Sakhniuk (201-PF-95) netted 12 points each for Ukraine. Boyarkin provided 10 points in the loss.

Lithuania U18: Augustinas Jankaitis 20, Marius Grigonis 19, Jokubas Gintvainis 9
Ukraine U18: Vladyslav Koreniuk 12, Yevgen Sakhniuk 12


DniproAzot land Sam Muldrow - by Eurobasket News

DniproAzot continued to work actively in the market. They added Sam Muldrow (205-F-88, college: S.Carolina) to the roster. The forward started his pro career last season. He played for Aris Thessaloniki. Sam Muldrow averaged 6.8 points, 5.5 boards and 1.3 blocks per game in A1 League. In EuroCup the forward notched 8.3 points, 5.7 rebounds, 2.3 blocks per appearance. Sam Muldrow participated at NBA Pro Summer League in Las Vegas this summer. The forward graduated from the University of South Carolina in 2011. He notched 11.4 points, 7.3 rebounds and 3.4 blocks per game in his senior season. Sam Muldrow was named All-SEC Defensive Player of the Year in 2011.
Sam Muldrow is the third import for DniproAzot. They previously announced Derrick Zimmerman (191-G-81, college: Mississippi St.) and Alan Wiggins (206-F-85, college: USF).


Donetsk has been announced as a new participant of the VTB United League - by Eurobasket News

The winner of Ukraine basketball championship Donetsk was given a wild card and will compete in the VTB United League in the upcoming season. The decision was made by the directorate of the League.

One of the best Ukrainian clubs has already taken part in the competition. It was in the 2009/2010 season when "Donetsk" won three of their six games on the group stage and couldn't make playoffs.

In the next season club will play in pool A facing Russian clubs Khimki, UNICS, Spartak, Krasnye Krylia, Lithuanian Lietuvos rytas, Ukrainian Azovmash, Estonian Kalev, Turow of Poland and Astana from Kazakhstan.

- We are pleased to welcome back Donetsk, - general director of the VTB United League Andrey Shirokov said. - The Ukrainian team was not the only one to pretend on this wild card. There were seven requests from six different countries. I would like to apologize for we said "no" to all of them. And I proudly announce, that all the teams that pretend to compete in our League will be able to prove they are powerful enough to join us the next year. That paragraph about teams' rotation was approved by the board of the United VTB League.

Donetsk was approved immediately because the Ukraine is a strategic partner of the League. Since the very first edition of the tournament at least two Ukrainian clubs took part in the championship at a time. We are pleased that the tradition will continue in the upcoming season. During last years Donetsk has become one of the most dominant teams in the Ukraine. They also claimed their first championship title last year. The club has earned the right to compete in Champions League qualification. It is a very ambitious club with a mature roster that can compete on the highest level in the VTB United League. They will show a solid performance.

- Our team has already took part in that tournament and we know there are only strong teams and the highest level of organization, a the president of Donetsk Sergey Dyadechko said. - We haven't considered that we'll take part in such a great championship because of a tough match schedule in the Ukraine. But several changes happened in the Ukrainian Superleague during the last weeks. So we decided to ask the United VTB League for a wild card and sent an official request. We are so pleased the wild card was brought to us so quickly and we are glad to be back. Now we are going to have a successful season in the League.

Profile:
Donetsk from Donetsk, the Ukraine
Founded: in 2006
Achievements: the Ukrainian Superleague Champion in the season-2011/12, the silver medalist of the Ukrainian Superleague in 2008/09 and 2010/11 seasons
Colors: orange, black, white
Home arena: the "Druzhba" Hall (4000 spectators)
Head coach: Vlada Jovanovic (agency: Beo Basket )
President: Sargey Dyadechko

Courtesy of VTB United League


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  UNITED KINGDOM   


U18 European Championship: England wins Group A - by Eurobasket News

England U18-Scotland U18 95:39

England wins Group A of the U18 European Championship in Division B. The team overcame Scotland 95:39 for 5-0 record on top. Scotland meanwhile finished the group without victories.
England was the favorite before the game and proved their ambitions throughout it. They started the game with 28-5 and added 20-10 in the second half when Stivrins and Rowan exchanged the late baskets. England was better also in the third frame with 21-15 surge. Moreover they won the last stanza 26-9 for a comfortable win.
Elliott Sentance (191-SG-94) paced all the winners with 16 points and Tamas Okros (196-SF-95) as well as Dwayne Orija (193-SG-95) poured in 12 apiece. Rowell Graham (197-F-94) followed them with 10 points in a win. Joshua McGilvray (201-C-95) finished the game with 12 points in defeat and Matthew Wilcox (196-PF-94) had 7.

England U18: Elliott Sentance 16, Tamas Okros 12, Dwayne Orija 12, Rowell Graham 10
Scotland U18: Joshua McGilvray 12, Matthew Wilcox 7


Kareem's the Dream for Eagles - by Jeff King

The Newcastle Eagles have swooped to sign 6'8" PF Kareem Maddox (202-F/C-89, college: Princeton) for the 20012/13 BBL campaign as they prepare to defend all four domestic titles they won last season.

Maddox, a graduate of Ivy League Princeton University, impressed the Newcastle coaching staff at the Basketball Days Tournament in Zwolle, Holland during the Christmas and New Year holiday putting himself on the radar for the future with his high-energy, athletic performances.

With Andy Thomson leaving for France and La Rochelle there was a gap to fill and Head Coach Fabulous Flournoy and Assistant Dave Forrester felt the former Zwolle forward was just the man to step in to Thomson's shoes and fill the gap.

Kareem himself cant wait to get started and gave an exclusive interview to Eurobasket.

"I'm really excited to get out to Newcastle. I've heard a lot of great things about the city and the people, and I played against Newcastle when I was at Zwolle last year, so I know the team is run well."

"I liked Newcastle because of the success that they have had, and after speaking to Fab over the phone I felt comfortable knowing that I would be heading into a good situation."

"I have family outside of London, which was another factor that played into my decision. My mother is half British, so I had a feeling that I would make my way to the UK at some point."

How do you feel signing for such a successful franchise where the levels of expectation are so great?

"Newcastle's success is both daunting and impressive. There are definitely going to be some high expectations in the upcoming year, but that means the target will be on our back so to speak but the pressure to prepare and perform should be a good thing."

What do you think you can bring to The Eagles with your playing style?

"I always try to bring defensive intensity and energy, and provide a spark however I can. My goals are of course to continue to success that Newcastle has had, and to improve as a player as much as possible. I know that Newcastle prides itself on defence as well, which is great for me because I know that I can provide in that area."

Last season was your first as a Professional, how did you get on in Zwolle and how do you think Holland will compare with The BBL in England?

"I had a great experience in Holland last year, although I got hurt midway through the year."

"The BBL has more teams, which is an aspect I like a lot. I can't say how the experiences will compare, but it's a new year with new people so I'm excited for it. I was impressed with Newcastle at Basketball Days, we definitely left with the impression that it was a great organization with good teammates that enjoyed playing together."

"Playing a team like that is always fun."

You had a great career at Princeton and were All-Ivy League 1st Team as well as Defensive Player of the Year in your senior year. What was your college experience like?

"Princeton was great to attend. I chose to go there because of the rich basketball tradition, along with the academics. At first it was tough because we didn't do very well my freshman year basketball-wise, and the school work was non-stop."

"After I got adjusted and learned some crucial time management habits it got a lot easier. We improved every year, and the overall experience got much better. The four years flew by but I wouldn't change anything about them."

"The basketball was intense. There are only 8 teams in the Ivy League, and the winner of the league goes to the NCAA tournament. Each game within our conference was a major battle because everyone knows everyone else really well, so our championship senior year was unbelievably gratifying after all of the work we had put in."

"Princeton was challenging on all fronts but like I said I wouldn't change anything about the experience."

With the signing of Damon Huffman (186-G-85) as well as Maddox The Eagles now have two Ivy League Graduates in their midst so its fair to say they should have a smart team next season on and off court.

Maddox certainly seems to have the hunger, desire and attitude to do well in England and certainly doesnt appear afraid of hard work. Bringing a defensive specialist in to a roster and team that prides itself on those principles seems a good move.

Time will tell but it certainly looks like and exciting and promising signing for The Eagles.


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  URUGUAY   

Standings - Metropolitan League

Metropolitan Standings
 1. Atenas 14-6 
 2. Marne 12-7 
 3. Goes 12-8 
 4. Cader 11-9 
 5. Urunday Univ. 11-9 
 6. Larranaga 10-8 
 7. Capitol 10-10 
 8. Verdirrojo 9-10 
 9. Guruyu Waston 8-12 
 10. Romis N. 7-13 
 11. Yale 4-16 



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  VENEZUELA   


Jhornan Zamora leaves Valladolid for Venezuelan Trotamundos - by Eurobasket News

Jhornan Zamora (196-G-89) will continue is career in Venezuela. The 23-year-old player left Valladolid and will sign a deal with Trotamundos de Carabobo. The Venezuelan guard had limited playing time with Valladolid last season. He appeared only 10 times in Liga Endesa averaging 2.9 points and 1.1 rebounds. Before Valladolid, Zamora spent two years with Clinicas Rincon. For 29 games in 2010/11 season the player had 9.7 ppg, 3.2 rpg and 2.2 apg in LEB Gold. Jhornan Zamora played for Valladolid also in the past. This summer Zamora helped Venezuelan National Team to win the silver medal at South American Championships in Chaco (Argentina). He had 5.8 ppg, 1.2 rpg and 1.2 apg for 5 games at this event. It was his debut with Team Venezuela. Zamora played for their youth National Teams in the past.


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  VTB UNITED LEAGUE   


Donetsk has been announced as a new participant of the VTB United League - by Eurobasket News

The winner of Ukraine basketball championship Donetsk was given a wild card and will compete in the VTB United League in the upcoming season. The decision was made by the directorate of the League.

One of the best Ukrainian clubs has already taken part in the competition. It was in the 2009/2010 season when "Donetsk" won three of their six games on the group stage and couldn't make playoffs.

In the next season club will play in pool A facing Russian clubs Khimki, UNICS, Spartak, Krasnye Krylia, Lithuanian Lietuvos rytas, Ukrainian Azovmash, Estonian Kalev, Turow of Poland and Astana from Kazakhstan.

- We are pleased to welcome back Donetsk, - general director of the VTB United League Andrey Shirokov said. - The Ukrainian team was not the only one to pretend on this wild card. There were seven requests from six different countries. I would like to apologize for we said "no" to all of them. And I proudly announce, that all the teams that pretend to compete in our League will be able to prove they are powerful enough to join us the next year. That paragraph about teams' rotation was approved by the board of the United VTB League.

Donetsk was approved immediately because the Ukraine is a strategic partner of the League. Since the very first edition of the tournament at least two Ukrainian clubs took part in the championship at a time. We are pleased that the tradition will continue in the upcoming season. During last years Donetsk has become one of the most dominant teams in the Ukraine. They also claimed their first championship title last year. The club has earned the right to compete in Champions League qualification. It is a very ambitious club with a mature roster that can compete on the highest level in the VTB United League. They will show a solid performance.

- Our team has already took part in that tournament and we know there are only strong teams and the highest level of organization, a the president of Donetsk Sergey Dyadechko said. - We haven't considered that we'll take part in such a great championship because of a tough match schedule in the Ukraine. But several changes happened in the Ukrainian Superleague during the last weeks. So we decided to ask the United VTB League for a wild card and sent an official request. We are so pleased the wild card was brought to us so quickly and we are glad to be back. Now we are going to have a successful season in the League.

Profile:
Donetsk from Donetsk, the Ukraine
Founded: in 2006
Achievements: the Ukrainian Superleague Champion in the season-2011/12, the silver medalist of the Ukrainian Superleague in 2008/09 and 2010/11 seasons
Colors: orange, black, white
Home arena: the "Druzhba" Hall (4000 spectators)
Head coach: Vlada Jovanovic (agency: Beo Basket )
President: Sargey Dyadechko

Courtesy of VTB United League



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Women News


Mladi Krajisnik tabs Zivadinovic - by Zeljko Zule

Bosnian runner-up Mladi Krajisnik continued its roster building process by inkingformer Serbian U-20 national team member Milana Zivadinovic (179-G-91) for the upcoming season. Zivadinovic arrives from Vojvodina, where she averaged 8.4 points, 3.8 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 1.5 steals in 17 Adriatic League games and 6.3 points, 3.3 rebounds, 4.0 assists and 1.3 steals in 4 Serbian League games last season.


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  BRAZIL   


Brazil U17 lose three in a row in Italy - by Eurobasket News

Brazilian U17 National Team took part at the Torneo di Caorle invitational tournament in Italy. This was the part of preparations for the upcoming U17 World Championship. The Latin American team suffered three defeats in as many games.
Brazil opened the tourney against the USA. The Latin American team could not match their opponents losing 34:80 at the end. Brianna Turner came up with 16 points to lead the winners. Izabella Sangalli (181-F-95) answered with 13 points for Brazil.
Next Brazil faced the hosting Italy. Brazil ensured a strong start to the game. The visitors gained a 39:34 halftime lead. But Italy gradually took over. They rallied in front and sealed a 78:66 victory at the end. Antonia Peresson (183-PG-95) scored 21 points to lead the Azzurri. Izabella Sangalli answered with 20 points for Brazil. Kananda Ribeiro (183-F/C-96) had 14 points in the losing effort.
Finally Brazil faced Australia. The Latin American team had to surrender at the end 45:66 to slip at 0-3 record.


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  FRANCE   


Serbia U20 hand second loss to France U20 in Novi Becej - by Eurobasket News

Serbia U20 - France U20 66:61

Serbia U20 celebrated the second straight win over French counterparts in the test series in Novi Becej. Snezana Colic (178-G-92) came up with 19 points to lead the charge.
Serbia strongly entered the game. The hosts cleared off to an 8-point distance at the first break 18:10. France increased the tempo in the second quarter. They knocked down 21 points to cut the deficit to 7 points at halftime 31:38. France got within just 5 points at the final break. But Serbia managed to slow their opponents down in the fourth quarter. The hosts kept the safe distance and sealed the victory at the end. Ivana Brajkovic (195-C-93) netted 18 points, while Jovana Jaksic (178-F/G-92) had 8 points for the winners. Marie Mbuyamba (185-F/C-93) answered with game-high 21 points for France. Sara Chevaugeon (177-G-93) finished with 11 points in the loss.

Serbia U20: Snezana Colic 19, Ivana Brajkovic 18, Jovana Jaksic 8
France U20: Marie Mbuyamba 21, Sara Chevaugeon 11


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  GREECE   


Greece U20 and Spain U17 exchange victories - by Eurobasket News

Greece U20 and Spain U17 exchange victories in the friendly campaign in Greece. At first Spain stormed past Greece 56:34. The Spanish players took 13-7 after the first period and added massive 20-4 in the second frame. Greece replied with 14-9 in the third quarter and then Spain had the same win in the last stanza. Carolina Esparcia (178-G-95) top-scored for the winners with 15 points and Yaiza Rodriguez (163-PG-95) posted 11.
In Game 2 Greece U20 celebrated a 61:54 win. Greece opened the game with 16-11, but trailed 5 points at the halftime. Greece needed two narrow victories in the second half to seal the total success. Yaiza Rodriguez posted 13 points for Spain and Romero notched 10.


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  HUNGARY   


Hungarian NB1 2012/13 - teams announced - by Adam Patonay

The hungarian fedeartion announced the list of the teams which will play in the next season on the hungarian 1st league, NB1. This year only 10 team will be in the league. The most traditional hungarian club Pecs 2010 bankrupted. The former star of the team, Dalma Ivanyi after her pregnancy was the GM of the team, but she signed to Botaspor, Turkey and the team finished. The management of this club cooperated with Bajai NKK and try to make a new team together, but actually not sure where will be their home court and who will play for the team. What we know that Szilvia Torok, Kinga Penzes, Edit Laczi and Nikolett Sarok will stay. FTC also finished because the big club decided to finish women basketball in the club. ELTE-BEAC was the on the last position and went to second division. The federation decided to continue with 10 teams only, so they had one more spot. About the rules the offered it to the best teams in the second division and PTE-PEAC got the chance and completed the list of the teams for next season. PTE-PEAC is located in Pecs and already signed Zeljko Djokic for head coach! UNI Gyor and MKB Sopron will play in Euroleague, DKSK in CEWBL, PTE-PEAC in Adriatic League next season.


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  ITALY   


Italy U17 clinch the third position at Torneo di Caorle - by Eurobasket News

Italian U17 National Team continued their preparations for the upcoming World Championship. They hosted Torneo di Caorle invitational tournament. Italy lost two out of three games to occupy the third position.
Italy lost the opening game to Australia 45:47. The hosts rebounded against Brazil in the second round. The Azzurri claimed a 78:66 success to improve at 1-1 record. Italy took on the USA in the final round. Italy started the game on a 14:0 run to stun the USA. But the visitors managed to cut the deficit to a single point at the first break 18:19. Team USA outgunned the hosts 30:12 in the second quarter to secure a comfortable 48:31 lead. Team USA ensured a 70:43 lead at the final intermission. They never looked back afterwards cruising to an 86:60 victory at the end. Mercedes Russell (196-C-95) provided 16 points to lead the winners. Taya Reimer (190-F-95) contributed 11 points, while Diamond Deshields (186-G/F-95) netted 8 points and grabbed 7 rebounds for the USA. Diamond DeShields was named the tournaments MVP after the game. Antonia Peresson (183-PG-95) came up with 13 points for Italy. Elisa Ercoli (190-C-95) finished with 12 points, while Elisa Penna (185-F-95) netted 8 points in the loss.
U17 World Championship starts on August 17th. Italy will in preliminary Group A alongside Team USA, Canada, Belgium, South Korea and Mali.


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  NCAA1   


Romanian Cluj-Napoca signs two American rookies - by Eurobasket News

Romanian team Cluj-Napoca reinforced its roster for the upcoming season with two American players Tipesa Moorer (177-F, college: Long Beach St.) and Daphnee Frieson (193-C-88, college: Stetson). Both of them are rookies.
Tipesa Moorer graduated few months ago at Long Beach State University. She had 12.7 ppg and 4.6 rpg for her school in 32 games as a senior. They reached Big West Tournament Finals. For her performance Moorer was awarded with All-Big West 2nd Team -12. She spent all four years with Long Beach State.
Daphnee Frieson is a product of Stetson University, where he had 8.4 ppg and 7.1 rpg for 15 games as a senior. It was in 2009/10. Fieson transferred to Stetson in 2008 from the University of Mississippi. The player missed last two seasons.


NCAA hires Anucha Browne Sanders - by Eurobasket News

Former New York Knicks executive Anucha Browne Sanders has been named vice president of women's basketball championships, the NCAA announced Thursday.

Browne Sanders will set the strategic direction for, and oversee the operation and management of, the Division I, II and III women's basketball championships, the NCAA said in a statement.

She previously was an associate athletic director and senior woman administrator at the University of Buffalo, where she supervised men's and women's basketball, volleyball, softball, swimming, diving and rowing.

"Anucha's experience not only in basketball, but also in management -- as well as her history as an NCAA student-athlete -- brings a unique and valuable skill set to this important position," Mark Lewis, the NCAA executive vice president of championships and alliances, said in the statement. "Her credentials are impressive and I know that she will bring a clear vision of how to put on exciting championships and continue to grow women's basketball."

Browne Sanders was the senior vice president of marketing and business operations for the Knicks, whom she successfully sued for sexual harassment. A jury in October 2007 ordered the Knicks to pay her $11.6 million after finding she endured crude insults and unwanted advances from then-coach Isiah Thomas.

Courtesy of ESPN


USA win Torneo di Caorle - by Eurobasket News

USA U17 National Team clinched the top position at the Torneo di Caorle invitational tournament in Italy. They defeated the hosts 86:60 on the final day of the competition to snatch the trophy.
Italy started the game on a 14:0 run to stun the USA. But the visitors managed to cut the deficit to a single point at the first break 18:19. Team USA outgunned the hosts 30:12 in the second quarter to secure a comfortable 48:31 lead. Team USA ensured a 70:43 lead at the final intermission. They never looked back afterwards cruising to the victory at the end. Mercedes Russell (6'5''-C-95) provided 16 points to lead the winners. Taya Reimer (6'3''-F-95) contributed 11 points, while Diamond Deshields (6'1''-G/F-95) netted 8 points and grabbed 7 rebounds for the USA. Diamond DeShield was named the tournaments MVP after the game.
USA beat Brazil 80:34 in opener and took care of Australia 108:53 in the second game at the tournament.


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  NCAA3   


Thiel names Clune head coach - by Eurobasket News

Following a national search, Thiel has hired of Rob Clune as its new women's basketball coach.

I am thrilled to welcome Rob Clune as our new womens basketball coach. athletic director Jack Leipheimer said.

His experience, knowledge and integrity are impeccable and I am looking forward to a long lasting relationship.

Clune is very familiar with the Presidents Athletics Conference having served as head mens basketball coach at Bethany from 1995-2002. During his tenure at Bethany, Clune successfully built the foundation for a championship basketball program. Bethany won back-to-back PAC championships during the 2000-01 and 2001-02 seasons and advanced to the second round of the NCAA Division III tournament.

Clune also recruited and coached four of the top six scorers in Bethany program history including the first two Division III All-Americans.

For his efforts Clune earned PAC Coach of the year honors in consecutive seasons.

Clune was also the head womens soccer coach at Bethany from 1995-2002. His 1999 team won the PAC championship leading the conference in every scoring category.

Most recently he served as the head womens basketball coach at Allegheny from 2002-10 where his teams qualified for every conference tournament during his tenure.

Clunes 2009-10 team finished third in the NCAC and led the conference in scoring.

Clune is looking forward to his opportunity at Thiel.

I am very excited about being part of the Thiel College community and again coaching in the Presidents Athletic Conference, he said.

Clune takes over a Tomcat squad that finished sixth in the conference last season with an 8-10 mark, the most wins in conference for the program since the 1987-88 season.

Im looking forward to working with a solid group of returning players, as well as the incoming freshmen, he said.

The Tomcats two all-conference performers, Barzak and Muffley will highlight the returning players for Clune who takes over for previous head coach Angie Zeuch.

Courtesy of www.ncaa.com


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  OLYMPIC GAMES   


Eurobasket.com All-Olympic Games Awards 2012 - by Eurobasket Center

Eurobasket.com All-Olympic Games 1st Team
#s#
Candace Parker
Parker
Becky Hammon
Hammon
Celine Dumerc
Dumerc
Eva Viteckova
Viteckova
Lauren Jackson
Jackson
#e#5

MVP: Candace Parker (193-C-86) of USA
Best Guard: Celine Dumerc (169-G-82) of France
Best Forward: Lauren Jackson (196-F/C-81) of USA
Best Center: Candace Parker (193-C-86) of USA
Best Coach: Geno Auriemma of USA

1st Team
PG: Becky Hammon (175-77) of Russia
G: Celine Dumerc (169-82) of France
F: Eva Viteckova (190-82) of Czech Rep.
F/C: Lauren Jackson (196-81) of Australia
C: Candace Parker (193-86) of USA

2nd Team
F: Miao LiJie (178-81) of China
SG: Diana Taurasi (183-82) of USA
SF: Angel McCoughtry (185-86) of USA
SF: Johannah Leedham (180-87) of England
C: Erika De Souza (197-82) of Brazil

3rd Team
G: Birsel Vardarli (174-84) of Turkey
G: Shona Thorburn (178-82) of Canada
SG: Natalie Stafford (175-76) of England
F: Kimberley Smith (186-84) of Canada
C: Cambage Elizabeth (203-91) of Australia

Honorable Mention
Sandrine Gruda (193-C-87) of France
Bahar Caglar (186-F-88) of Turkey
Chen Nan (195-C-83) of China
Ma Zengyu (183-F-84) of China
Clarissa Dos Santos (187-C-88) of Brazil
Sandra Mandir (177-G-77) of Croatia


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  ROMANIA   


Romanian Cluj-Napoca signs two American rookies - by Eurobasket News

Romanian team Cluj-Napoca reinforced its roster for the upcoming season with two American players Tipesa Moorer (177-F, college: Long Beach St.) and Daphnee Frieson (193-C-88, college: Stetson). Both of them are rookies.
Tipesa Moorer graduated few months ago at Long Beach State University. She had 12.7 ppg and 4.6 rpg for her school in 32 games as a senior. They reached Big West Tournament Finals. For her performance Moorer was awarded with All-Big West 2nd Team -12. She spent all four years with Long Beach State.
Daphnee Frieson is a product of Stetson University, where he had 8.4 ppg and 7.1 rpg for 15 games as a senior. It was in 2009/10. Fieson transferred to Stetson in 2008 from the University of Mississippi. The player missed last two seasons.


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  SERBIA   


Serbia U20 hand second loss to France U20 in Novi Becej - by Eurobasket News

Serbia U20 - France U20 66:61

Serbia U20 celebrated the second straight win over French counterparts in the test series in Novi Becej. Snezana Colic (178-G-92) came up with 19 points to lead the charge.
Serbia strongly entered the game. The hosts cleared off to an 8-point distance at the first break 18:10. France increased the tempo in the second quarter. They knocked down 21 points to cut the deficit to 7 points at halftime 31:38. France got within just 5 points at the final break. But Serbia managed to slow their opponents down in the fourth quarter. The hosts kept the safe distance and sealed the victory at the end. Ivana Brajkovic (195-C-93) netted 18 points, while Jovana Jaksic (178-F/G-92) had 8 points for the winners. Marie Mbuyamba (185-F/C-93) answered with game-high 21 points for France. Sara Chevaugeon (177-G-93) finished with 11 points in the loss.

Serbia U20: Snezana Colic 19, Ivana Brajkovic 18, Jovana Jaksic 8
France U20: Marie Mbuyamba 21, Sara Chevaugeon 11


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  SPAIN   


Greece U20 and Spain U17 exchange victories - by Eurobasket News

Greece U20 and Spain U17 exchange victories in the friendly campaign in Greece. At first Spain stormed past Greece 56:34. The Spanish players took 13-7 after the first period and added massive 20-4 in the second frame. Greece replied with 14-9 in the third quarter and then Spain had the same win in the last stanza. Carolina Esparcia (178-G-95) top-scored for the winners with 15 points and Yaiza Rodriguez (163-PG-95) posted 11.
In Game 2 Greece U20 celebrated a 61:54 win. Greece opened the game with 16-11, but trailed 5 points at the halftime. Greece needed two narrow victories in the second half to seal the total success. Yaiza Rodriguez posted 13 points for Spain and Romero notched 10.


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  SWEDEN   


Turkey U20 beat the Scandinavian representative in Debrecen - by Eurobasket News

Turkey U20-Sweden U20 74:48

Turkey U20 beat the Scandinavian representative in Debrecen in Day 2 of the International Tournament. The Turkish side improved to 2-0 record after a 74:48 win. Sweden U20 meanwhile fell at 1-1 record.
Sweden beat Spain in the opener and opened the game with 21-19. They could not however stay on race in the rest of the game. Turkey replied with 17-11 in the second frame and added 17-11 in the third quarter. Moreover Turkey posted 19-11 in the last stanza to seal the victory.
Aysegul Gunay (172-PG-92) top-scored for the winners with 15 points and Pelin Bilgic (173-G-94) as well as Mystery Sezer had 12 each. Merve Aydin (174-PG-94) delivered 9, while Olcay Cakir (180-PG-93) posted 7. Farhiya Abdi (188-F-92) finished the game with 15 points in the losing effort and Binta Drammeh (180-F-92) had 11. Amanda Zahui (190-C-93) scored 6, while Elin Gustavsson (185-F-93) added 5.

Turkey U20: Aysegul Gunay 15, Pelin Bilgic 12, Mystery Sezer 12, Merve Aydin 9, Olcay Cakir 7
Sweden U20: Farhiya Abdi 15, Binta Drammeh 11, Amanda Zahui 6, Elin Gustavsson 5


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  TURKEY   


Turkey U20 beat the Scandinavian representative in Debrecen - by Eurobasket News

Turkey U20-Sweden U20 74:48

Turkey U20 beat the Scandinavian representative in Debrecen in Day 2 of the International Tournament. The Turkish side improved to 2-0 record after a 74:48 win. Sweden U20 meanwhile fell at 1-1 record.
Sweden beat Spain in the opener and opened the game with 21-19. They could not however stay on race in the rest of the game. Turkey replied with 17-11 in the second frame and added 17-11 in the third quarter. Moreover Turkey posted 19-11 in the last stanza to seal the victory.
Aysegul Gunay (172-PG-92) top-scored for the winners with 15 points and Pelin Bilgic (173-G-94) as well as Mystery Sezer had 12 each. Merve Aydin (174-PG-94) delivered 9, while Olcay Cakir (180-PG-93) posted 7. Farhiya Abdi (188-F-92) finished the game with 15 points in the losing effort and Binta Drammeh (180-F-92) had 11. Amanda Zahui (190-C-93) scored 6, while Elin Gustavsson (185-F-93) added 5.

Turkey U20: Aysegul Gunay 15, Pelin Bilgic 12, Mystery Sezer 12, Merve Aydin 9, Olcay Cakir 7
Sweden U20: Farhiya Abdi 15, Binta Drammeh 11, Amanda Zahui 6, Elin Gustavsson 5


D.M Jones signed with Tarsus - by Mustafa Bozkurt

Tarsus Belediyesi completed roster with signing Delisha Milton Jones... Experienced player signed the contract a few days ago and are going to join the team next days. Jones has a big resume such like 2 Gold with American National Team and selected 3 times WNBA All Star. 38 years old player had solid stats last year with USK Praha at Euroleague: 14.2 points, 7.4 rebounds, 2.0 asist. Jones is currently playing with Los Angeles Sparks.




Ceyhan signs forward Ferda Yildiz - by Eurobasket News

Ferda Yildiz (183-F-93) is a new member of Ceyhan. The Turkish forward signed a deal for the upcoming season. Yildiz arrives to the club from Antalya Koleji, where she spent 2011/12. The player averaged 11.8 points, 3.7 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 2.3 steals for 23 TB2L games. In the past, she played for Antalya Buyuksehir Belediye youth selections. Ferda Yildiz is active member of U20 Turkish National Team. Last summer she played for U18 Turkey at U18 EuroBasket in Romania. Yildiz appeared 8 times at this event averaging 4.8 points and 2.4 rebounds. Two years ago she played for U17 Turkey at U17 World Championship in France. A year before that, Ferda Yildiz played for U16 NT.


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  WBCBL   


Louisiana Bayou Angels captures the 2012 WBCBL National Title - by Willie McCray

The Louisiana Bayou Angels (11-2) defeats St. Louis Surge (12-4) 90-80 to capture the 2012 WBCBL National Championship. Congratulations to the Louisiana Bayou Angels on a remarkable and successful season!

2012 Womens Blue Chip Basketball National Tournament Results:

1ST ROUND
Fort Lauderdale Lions 91 Florida Knighthawks 84
Winston-Salem Lady Warcats 77 Louisiana Bayou Angels 96
St. Louis Surge 90 Dallas Lady Diesel 75

2ND ROUND
Fort Lauderdale Lions 97 Fayetteville Lady Rush 94
Louisiana Bayou Angels 101 Columbus Lady Wings 76
St. Louis Surge 81 Miami Rain 71
Charleston Lowcountry Fire 83 Kansas Nuggets 84

SEMI-FINALS
Louisiana Bayou Angels 106 Kansas Nuggets 92
Fort Lauderdale Lions 70St. Louis Surge 75

FINALS
St. Louis Surge 80 Louisiana Bayou Angels 90

The Championship game has been posted to: www.WBCBL.com, other games will be posted on "WBCBL TV"


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  WNBA   


Delisha Milton-Jones signs in Turkey for 2012/13 season - by Eurobasket News

Delisha Milton-Jones (6'1''-F-74, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Florida) will play 2011/12 season in Turkey. The American forward signed a deal with Tarsus. She is currently a member of the WNBA team Los Angeles Sparks. After 21 games this season Milton-Jones averaged 9.9 points and 4.8 rebounds. She joined the LA Sparks in 2008 and before that played for the Washington Mystics. Milton-Jones played in LA from 1999 to 2004 as well.
Last European season Delisha Milton-Jones spent with ZVVZ USK Praha. She helped them win championship title and Cup. They were also champions in 2011. Milton-Jones picked up Eurobasket.com All-Czech Rep. D1 Player of the Year -12. In 2011, she was named Eurobasket.com All-Czech Rep. D1 Forward of the Year. Before ZVVZ USK Praha, Delisha Milton-Jones played for the Spanish giant Ros Casares (went bankrupt this summer). They won four Spanish league titles together. In 2001, the player won Euroleague crown with Russian Ekaterinburg.