EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 8/18/2012 1:04:01 AM

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Men News

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  ABA   



Akuma Sports named official uniforms of the ABA - by Gianni Pascucci

The American Basketball Association announced today that Akuma Sports (www.akumasports.com) has been named the Official Uniforms of the ABA. "We've looked at quite a few companies," stated Joe Newman , ABA CEO, "and we are very excited to have established this partnership with Akuma. With national TV this year, our goal was to upgrade the look and style of the ABA players, and Akuma is the perfect fit. They're young, creative, exciting and will give the ABA a whole new look."
Akuma Sports is a family business, based in Kenilworth, Warwickshire UK and was set up by three brothers, Warwick, Daniel and Thomas Aldersley and later joined by their Aunt, Polly Pithers, who heads up Operations.
The rationale for setting up Akuma Sports was based on personal experiences of organizing and purchasing for many years for a Touring Rugby Team. Disappointed with the available products and service, they developed Akuma Sports and quickly became one of the foremost suppliers of rugby uniforms in Europe. Extending their products to other sports, including hickey, polo and basketball, Akuma's innovative products are considered cutting edge both on and off the field or court. Using the latest technology, combined with specially selected elite sports fabrics, which have been researched, tried and tested to ensure maximum performance, durability and comfort for the player, Akuma has achieved remarkable growth throughout the world.
"We are very proud to be the Official Uniforms of the ABA," stated Matt Newcom, Senior VP of Acuma North America. "Being associated with the ABA and its many teams throughout the US will give Akuma great exposure and illustrate that there is a "next level" to design and creativity and quality when it comes to basketball uniforms. Our "Gold Standard Service" is the key to winning and retaining business. Quality products, fastest lead time in the industry and our commitment to excellence is what sets us apart from other companies."
For more information, contact Matt Newecom at 317 863 0824 or 317 946 1118 or email mnewcom@akumasports.com or visit www.akumasports.com


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  ADRIATIC LEAGUE   


Partizan to sign Drew Gordon - by Rado Markovic Hribernik

BC Partizan MT:S Beograd are close to signing Drew Gordon (205-F-90, college: N.Mexico) for the upcoming season, according to Serbian media. The player comes from the University of New Mexico, where he averaged 14.0 points, 11.2 rebounds, 1.3 assists and 1.0 steals per game.

After the player wasn't drafted in 2012, he went to play in the NBA Summer league with the Dallas Mavericks, but didn't get a contract that he desired. Now he heads to Europe, where he probably could not find a better club to gain experience as a rookie.



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  ALBANIA   


Finland cruise past Albania in Helsinki - by Eurobasket News

Finland - Albania 112:77

Finland celebrated the first win at 2013 EuroBasket Qualifying Round. They marched past Albania in Helsinki. Petteri Koponen (194-PG-88) scored 29 points to lead the hosts. Albania fell at 0-2 record after the loss.
Finland set the tone in the opening quarter. The hosts unloaded 37 points to take 19-point lead at the first break. Finland stayed dominant in the second quarter. The home team extended their lead to 31-point mark at the interval. Albania erupted for 30 points in the third term but cut the deficit by just one point at the final intermission. Finland adjusted defence in the fourth term limiting Albania to 17 points and claiming an easy victory at the end. Shawn Huff (198-SF-84, college: Valparaiso) posted 19 points, while Mikko Koivisto (194-G-87, college: NC-Greensboro) added 11 points for the winners. Gerti Shima (202-PF-86) answered with 23 points and 10 rebounds for Albania. Klaudio Ndoja (198-SG-85) had 18 points in the loss.

Finland: Petteri Koponen 29, Shawn Huff 19, Mikko Koivisto 11
Albania: Gerti Shima 23+10 boards, Klaudio Ndoja 18


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  ARGENTINA   


Trieste inks deal with PG Ariel Filloy - by Eurobasket News

Trieste added another new player for the upcoming season. The team penned a deal with Argentinean/Italian point guard Ariel Filloy (189-PG-87, agency: Interperformances). The 25-year-old player heads to his new club from EA7 Emporio Armani Milano, where he played last season. Filloy collected 2.6 ppg and 1.4 rpg for 16 SerieA games. In Euroleague, he appeared only 3 times posting 4.7 ppg and 1 rpg. Ariel Filloy played for Milano also from 2008 to 2010. Season 2010/11 he spent with Pistoia in LegaDue. There the player registered 10.4 ppg, 3.6 rpg and 2.2 apg for 33 games. Filloy was a member of Rimini from 2004 to 2008 and before that he played for Sassari. In 2007 with Italian U20 NT he won the bronze medal at U20 EuroBasket in Nova Gorica. He had 2.9 ppg and 2.3 rpg for 8 games at this event.


Napoli inks guard Juan Marcos Casini - by Eurobasket News

Napoli continues with signings for the upcoming season. Their latest addition is Argentinean guard Marcos Casini (188-PG-80). The player has Italian passport. Casini spent last two seasons with Givova Scafati. In the latest one he had 8.9 ppg, 2.4 rpg and 1.4 apg for 37 games. The player had 5.1 ppg and 1.8 rpg for Scafati in their first season together. Before Scafati, Marcos Casini played year and a half for Pistoia. There he had 9.1 ppg and 2.9 rpg in 34 LegaDue games (2009/10 season). In the past, Casini played for Boca Juniors, Cantu and Jesi. With Jesi he was LegaDue champion in 2004. Marcos Casini also has experience from Andino La Rioja, Regatas and Atenas.


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  ASIAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U18   

Standings

Standings
Group A
1. China2-0
2. Lebanon2-0
3. Hong Kong0-2
4. India0-2
Group B
1. Syria1-0
2. S.Korea1-0
3. Singapore0-1
4. Japan0-1
Group C
1. Bahrain1-0
2. Taiwan1-0
3. Indonesia0-1
4. Mongolia0-1
Group D
1. Iran1-0
2. Philippine.1-0
3. Kazakhstan.0-1
4. Saudi Arab.0-1

Regular Season: Round 2

Group A

Aug. 18: HKG - LEB 70-113
Aug. 18: IND - CHN 54-119

Group B

Aug. 18: JPN - SIN
Aug. 18: SYR - KOR

Group C

Aug. 18: MGL - TAI
Aug. 18: IDN - BHR

Group D

Aug. 18: KAZ - PHI
Aug. 18: KSA - IRI


Results and Stats from Day 1 in Ulaanbaatar - by Eurobasket News

Group A
Lebanon - India 65-61
Lebanon secured the opening win at the U18 Asia Championship in Ulaanbaatar. They sneaked past pesky India in Group A opener. Wael Arakji (192-G-94) scored 25 points to lead the winners. Lebanon jumped to an 8:2 lead but India quickly rebounded. They narrowed the gap and eventually tied things up at 16 after ten minutes. The lead changed hands throughout intense second quarter. India pulled ahead late in the period and secured a 34:30 halftime lead. Lebanon managed to return in front in the third quarter. They eked out a 51:47 lead heading into the fourth frame. Lebanon kept India at distance throughout the final term. They managed to ensure a narrow but important victory at the end. Jimmy Salem (190-G-95) accounted for 18 points, while Karim Tabaja added 6 points for Lebanon. Palpreet Singh Brar (204-C-94) answered with game-high 28 points for India. Amit Kanarjee finished with 13 points in the loss.

China - Hong Kong 153-47
U18 Asia Championship reigning champions China opened their title defence in style. They exploded with 153 points to silence Hong Kong in Group A action. Wang Zhelin (215-C/F-94) came up with 28 points to lead China. China started strong as they fired 34 points in the first quarter. They piled up a 19-point lead at the first break. China added 34 more points in the second quarter taking a massive 38-point halftime advantage. The defending champions went on a killer 44:5 run in the third term to leave Hong Kong far behind. China cruised to the victory in the final period. Li Jinglong (195-F-95) posted 20 points, while Gao Shang and Dai Huaibo added 19 points each for the winners. Ng Chun Yan (196-C-12) answered with 18 points for Hong Kong. Tsoi Hung Hing accounted for 8 points in the loss.

Group B
Singapore - Syria 47-78
Syria won the opener of the 22nd FIBA Asia U18 Championship. Syria grabbed a 78:47 win in the first game of the tournament. Singapore, who made a comeback into the competition after a six-year gap began and well and the SEABA team kept pace with their much taller rivals for the entire first half. Syria took 14:13 lead in the opening period but pushed the tempo for good later in the game. They added 19-16 in the second frame and enjoyed 33:29 lead at the halftime. The third quarter was decisive in the game as Syria erupted with 26-11 in it. Moreover thy closed the game with 19-7 in the last stanza for the final result. Mohamad Atle (199-C-95) top-scored for the winners with 14 points and 13 rebounds, while Mahmoud TRAB added 11. Ockba Baghajati (182-G-94) and Mourad Hashim (176-G-95) delivered 10 points each. Ding Loon TAY posted 14 points in the losing effort. Jun Wei TAN and Low Remus (183-F-94) followed him with 8 each.

South Korea - Japan 91-69
South Korea registered the first win at the U18 Asia Championship in Mongolia. They knocked down Japanese counterparts in Group B action. Jonghyun Lee (206-C-94) came up with 19 points to lead the Korean side. South Korea strongly entered the game. They fired 28 points in the opening quarter to post a 12-point lead. South Korea stayed in charge throughout the second quarter. They established a 47:31 lead at the interval. The margin grew at 20-point mark early in the third term. South Korea dominated every facet of the game and cleared off to a 74:47 distance at the final break. They never looked back again rolling to the victory. Seongmo Choi (187-G-94) netted 16 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Yuta Osaka (179-PG-94) answered with 14 points for Japan. Masahiro Narita notched 12 points in the loss.

Group C
Taiwan - Indonesia 99-44
Taiwan celebrated the first win at the U18 Asia Championship. They overcame Indonesia in Group C. Lu Kuan-Hsuan (180-G-95) and Fang Shih-En (199-C-94) led the charge with 18 points each. Taiwan limited their opponents to just 8 points in the opening quarter to take a 16-point lead. Taiwan opened the second frame on a 19:3 run to clear off. They established a 49:17 lead at halftime. The margin just kept on growing throughout the third quarter. Taiwan ensured a 71:28 lead into the fourth stanza. They did not slow down in the fourth period and celebrated a well-deserved win at the end. Lee Chia-Jui accounted for 11 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Jan Panagan (179-G-94) and Kristianto Halim (201-C-94) answered with 11 points each for Indonesia.

Bahrain - Mongolia 95-74
Bahrain registered the first win at the U18 Asia Championship in Ulaanbaatar. They overcame hosting Mongolia in Group C. Mahamed Naser (191-F-97) came up with 24 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. The hosts started the game aggressively. Mongolia dominated in the opening quarter posting a 20:10 lead after ten minutes. Bahrain managed to narrow the gap in the second quarter. The visitors got within a single point at the interval 37:38. Bahrain pulled ahead in the third quarter. They fired 30 points to take a 67:54 lead at the final intermission. Mongolia ran out of steam in the fourth term and could not challenge the deficit in the final minutes. Ali Melad (171-F-94) finished with 18 points, while Jasim Abul and Mohammed Buallay accounted for 10 points each for the winners. Likhamjav answered with 21 points for Mongolia. Chinzorig netted 18 points and collected 9 rebounds in defeat.

Group D
Iran - Kazakhstan 105-46
Iran cruised to the opening win at the U18 Asia Championship. They took on Kazakhstan in Group C and clinched a confident win at the end. Behnam Yakhchali (191-G-95) stepped up with 21 points, 7 steals and 6 boards to pace the winners. Iran led by just six points after the slow first quarter 17:11. But they shifted the gear in the second frame. Iran went on a massive 32:8 run to take a 30-point lead at halftime. The rest of the game was a one-way traffic. Iran stayed in charge and coasted to the victory. Vahid Dalirzahan (199-SF-95) posted 14 points and 9 rebounds, while Hossein Rahmati added 12 points in the win. Maxim Marchuk (195-F/G-94) answered with 16 points for Kazakhstan. Nurlybek Nurkhanov netted 7 points in the losing effort.

Philippines - Saudi Arabia 95-52
Philippines got to the winning start of their U18 Asia Championship campaign. They defeated Saudi Arabia behind 15 points from Janus Suarez. Saudi Arabia led during the opening five minutes of the game but Philippines quickly gained control. They went on a 17:2 run to take a 23:12 lead at the first break. The margin grew at 20-point mark at halftime 49:29. Philippines maintained the pressure in the third quarter. They opened a 31-point lead at the final intermission. Philippines did not slow down in the fourth quarter and cruised to the victory at the end. Rodolfo Alejandro (175-G-95) netted 14 points, while Mario Bonleon added 13 points and 7 rebounds in the victory. Waheed Faqihi answered with 19 points for Saudi Arabia. Nassir Abo Jalas had 11 points in defeat.


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  AUSTRALIA   


TRAGEDY - by John Morris

well im am still here in Australia having a good time in the beautiful city of Melbourne. I finally made it to an Aussi rules football game and it is very exciting.The crowd was over 50,000 people and the atmosphere was great. On the basketball court things have been going well , my team is winning and i am playing well averaging 19 ppg, 6.3rbg, 37%3fg, 45% fg, 71%ft .we are in fourth position on the ladder most of the season so we are right in a good playoff position.. sadly to say i had a freak accident on the second game of a double header. I was just trailing my man around a screen and felt a kick in my calf and foot went numb, mri showed ruptured achilles tendon . I had surgery 2 days later but it was season ending survey with only 1 month before play off started. ii am staying over til seasons end to support my club and finish coaching my under 14s boys team which is part of my contract. John Morris (196-G-85, college: C.W. Post)


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  BAHRAIN   


U18 Championship: Bahrain roll past Mongolia - by Eurobasket News

Bahrain U18 - Mongolia U18 95:74

Bahrain registered the first win at the U18 Asia Championship in Ulaanbaatar. They overcame hosting Mongolia in Group C. Mahamed Naser (191-F-97) came up with 24 points and 9 rebounds for the winners.
The hosts started the game aggressively. Mongolia dominated in the opening quarter posting a 20:10 lead after ten minutes. Bahrain managed to narrow the gap in the second quarter. The visitors got within a single point at the interval 37:38. Bahrain pulled ahead in the third quarter. They fired 30 points to take a 67:54 lead at the final intermission. Mongolia ran out of steam in the fourth term and could not challenge the deficit in the final minutes. Ali Melad (171-F-94) finished with 18 points, while Jasim Abul (167-PG-94) and Mohammed Buallay (185-F-95) accounted for 10 points each for the winners. Likhamjav answered with 21 points for Mongolia. Chinzorig netted 18 points and collected 9 rebounds in defeat.

Bahrain U18: Mahamed Naser 24, Ali Melad 18, Jasim Abul 10, Mohammed Buallay 10
Mongolia U18: Likhamjav 21, Chinzorig 18


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  BALTIC LEAGUE   


Pieno Zvaigzdes bring in Yancy Gates - by Eurobasket News

Pieno Zvaigzdes bolstered their roster. They agreed on terms of contract with Yancy Gates (205-F-89). The forward will start his pro career in Lithuania. Yancy Gates has just graduated from the University of Cincinnati. He notched 12.2 points and 8.9 rebounds per game in his senior season. The forward was named into Big East All-Tournament Team. He made it into NCAA Sweet 16 with Cincinnati. Yancy Gates participated at the Portsmouth Invitational Tournament. He tallied 7.5 points, 8.0 boards and 2.3 assists per game there. Later Yancy Gates took part at AirTran Orlando Summer League. The forward played for the Detroit Pistons averaging 4.3 points and 4.3 boards. Yancy Gates then played at NBA Pro Summer League in Las Vegas. His stats read 3.8 points and 2.8 rebounds per appearance for the Sacramento Kings.


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  BELGIUM   


Antwerp Transfer News - by Peter Buyse

You can tell the new season is around the corner with all the transaction news already this week. Friday was Port of Antwerp Giants turn to announce the addition of American power forward Gregg Thondique (201-F-87, college: Virginia Union) who signed a one year deal with the Antwerp team. According to his agency,; he is on loan from CAI Zaragoza who signed him to a 3 year deal.
After finishing his college career at NCAA2 team Virginia Union he played 2 seasons in Slovenia for Polzela. His second season there he was the top league's leading rebounder with 10.5 rpg.
This past season he averaged 19.9 ppg and 13.2 rpg for Hapoel Afula in the Israeli 2nd division.


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  BOSNIA   


Adnan Hodzic signs in Switzerland - by Eurobasket News

Adnan Hodzic (203-F-88, college: Lipscomb) will continue his career in Switzerland. The Bosnian forward penned a deal with BBC Monthey for the upcoming season. Hodzic spent the last one with the German team Walter Tigers Tuebingen. He appeared 34 times in the league averaging 8.8 points and 4.1 rebounds. It was his first year as a pro. Adnan Hodzic is a product of Lipscomb, where he graduated in 2011. The played shined with 17.7 ppg and 7.5 rpg for his school in 30 games as a senior. He was even better as a junior averaging 22.7 ppg and 9.1 rpg for the same numbers a games. Hodzic was named All-A-Sun Player of the Year -10. In 2009, 2010 and last year as well he was named to All-A-Sun 1st Team. In 2008, the player was awarded with A-Sun All-Freshman Team. Last summer, Hodzic participated at the Bosnian NT training camp.


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  BULGARIA   


U18 European Championship: Serbia reach Semifinals in Vilnius - by Eurobasket News

Bulgaria U18-Serbia U18 79:88

Serbia reach Semifinals in Vilnius as they won the Quarterfinal clash over Bulgaria. The Serbian side won 88:79 at the U18 European Championship in Division A.
Serbia took 20:15 at the end of the first period but led only 1 point at the halftime. Bulgaria answered with 24-20 in the second frame as the board showed 40:39 after Denislav Vutev (206-C-94) and Cvorovic baskets. Serbia later erupted with a 9-0 run to take 50:41 lead and Andric scored for 61:53. Nikola Radicevic (194-G-94) made two free throws to close the third period at 66:60. No matter how hard Bulgaria tried to recover they could not beat Serbia. Nikola Radicevic brought the final 10 points for the winners for the final result.
Stefan Pot (195-G-94) stepped up with 24 points to lead Serbia to the semis. Nikola Radicevic collected 21 points and 11 assists, while Nikola Jankovic (205-PF-94) added 13. Aleksandar Vezenkov (205-SF-95) produced 16 points in the losing effort and Denislav Vutev scored 15. Kris Minkov (198-SF-94) notched 14, whilst Deyan Karamfilov (180-PG-94) had 8.

Bulgaria U18: Aleksandar Vezenkov 16, Denislav Vutev 15, Kris Minkov 14, Deyan Karamfilov 8
Serbia U18: Stefan Pot 24, Nikola Radicevic 21+11 ast, Nikola Jankovic 13


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  CHINA   


CBA Transactions - by Alex Yam

The CBA season is slowly approaching, and rumors, chatter of what foreign players will be making there return or debut in China are starting to be heard.Thus far aside from the earlier signings, most teams have done a good job of keeping things quiet from the media,fans. Some key changes for some of the CBA's brightest, such as Quincy Douby who now moves to Zheijiang C., considered by most fans and teams alike, Douby is the top player in China, the Beijing duo of Morris and Marbury will be in tact to defend their CBA championship, and the newest addition to the CBA , Von Wafer, will attempt to fill the large void left by Douby in Xinjiang.

This season likely won't have the star power of last season, as there is no NBA lockout this season. So the chances of seeing a current NBA superstar come to China, is not likely to happen.


U18 Championship: China trounce Hong Kong in opener - by Eurobasket News

China U18 - Hong Kong U18 153:47

U18 Asia Championship reigning champions China opened their title defence in style. They exploded with 153 points to silence Hong Kong in Group A action. Wang Zhelin (215-C/F-94) came up with 28 points to lead China.
China started strong as they fired 34 points in the first quarter. They piled up a 19-point lead at the first break. China added 34 more points in the second quarter taking a massive 38-point halftime advantage. The defending champions went on a killer 44:5 run in the third term to leave Hong Kong far behind. China cruised to the victory in the final period. Li Jinglong (195-F-95) posted 20 points, while Gao Shang (198-F/G-94) and Dai Huaibo (205-C/F-94) added 19 points each for the winners. Ng Chun Yan (196-C-12) answered with 18 points for Hong Kong. Tsoi Hung Hing (191-F-95) accounted for 8 points in the loss.

China U18: Wang Zhelin 28, Li Jinglong 20, Gao Shang 19, Dai Huaibo 19
Hong Kong U18: Ng Chun Yan 18, Tsoi Hung Hing 8


China Blows Out Hong Kong in U-18 - by Arthur Volbert

China blew out a too-shott Hong Kong team 153-47 in the opening game of the FIBA Asia U-18 championship. Unfortunately the level of competition is so low that we really don't know how good this team will be when it faces top teams from the rest of the world.

Wang Zhelin (215-C/F-94) led China with 28 points and 10 rebounds. Li Jinlong had 20 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists. Gao Shang had 19 points, 5 rebounds and 7 assists. Han Delong had 17 points, 5 rebounds and 8 assists. Yang Jinmeng had 17 points and 7 assists. Zhou Qi had 7 points, 6 rebounds and 3 blocks.

China outebounded Hong Kong 60 to 14. Ng Chun Yan with 18 points was the only Hong Kong player in double figures.

Other games:
Syria 78 Singapore 47
Korea 91 Japan 69
Lebanon 65 India 61
Philippines 95 Saudi Arabia 52
Chinese Taipei 99 Indonesia 44
Iran 105 Kazakhstan 46

Bahrain 95 Mongolia 74

Link to box score:
http://www.fibaasia.net/UserImages/BSF01201281741354.PDF


U18 Championship: China roll over India in Day 2 - by Eurobasket News

India U18-China U18 54:119

China roll over India in Day 2 of the 22nd FIBA Asia U18 Championship The Chinese team did not have any difficulties reaching 119:54 win.
China erupted with 17-2 surge in the first five minutes and never looked behind after. They led 27:4 at the end of the first period and increased to 44:9 midway through the second frame. The board showed 55:14 when the teams went to the lockers at the halftime. In the second half China continued their dominance and produced two victories in the periods. They led 88:33 with 10 minutes to go and reached three digit number early in the last quarter. Moreover they scored another 19 points for a comfortable win.
Gao Shang (198-F/G-94) top-scored for the winners with 22 points and Wang Zhelin (215-C/F-94) as well as BA I Bing had 15 each. Dai Huaibo (205-C/F-94) delivered 13, while Wu Qian (190-G-94) and Li Qi (198-F-95) scored 11 apiece. Rakesh Singh ended up with 19 points and 10 rebounds in defeat, while Narender Satyawan posted 10. BHA SIN Akash followed them with 9 points in the losing effort.

India U18: Rakesh Singh (198-PF-95) 19+10 rebs, Narender Satyawan (176-PG-96) 10, BHA SIN A kash 9
China U18: Gao Shang 22, Wang Zhelin 15, Bai Bing (200-F-95) 15, Dai Huaibo 13, Wu Qian 11, Li Qi 11


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  CROATIA   


Kvarner signed Bojan Krivec! - by Dani Erceg

Slovenian point guard Bojan Krivec (188-G-87) is new member of Kvarner 2010 Rijeka . He played entire career for Krka Novo Mesto, last season he averaged 3.1ppg, 1.7rpg, 2.4apg in Slovenian League and in Adriatic League his numbers were 4.6ppg, 1.8rpg, 2.3apg. With Krka he won 3 Slovenian Championship titles and also EuroChallenge title in 2011.


CAI Zaragoza lands Damjan Rudez - by Eurobasket News

Damjan Rudez (208-F-86) will continue his career in Spain. The Croatian National Team forward penned a deal with CAI Zaragoza. Rudez spent last season with Cibona Zagreb winning the championship title in Croatia. He had 12.1 ppg, 2.3 rpg and 1.2 apg for 20 games in the league. He also added 11.7 ppg and 2.6 rpg for 26 games in Adriatic league. In EuroCup, Rudez registered 5.5 ppg for 6 appearances. Before Cibona, Damjan Rudez played two years for Cedevita Zagreb. In 2008/09 he was a member of Union Olimpija helping the team to win Slovenian title and Cup. Year before that he played for Split. In 2006, Damjan Rudez won the Belgian league title with Oostende. He is a product of Zrinjevac Zagreb.


U18 European Championship: Croatia edge Italy to stay in title fray - by Eurobasket News

Croatia U18 - Italy U18 76:69

Croatia made it into U18 European Championship semifinals. They overcame Italy to complete the semifinal picture. Jakov Mustapic (193-G-94) posted 16 points and 8 rebounds to lead the winners.
Croatia entered the game recognized as big time favorite. However the Azzurri challenged their opponents and trailed by a single point 19:20 after ten minutes. Croatia intensified their defence in the second term. They limited Italy to 9 points in the quarter to surge ahead for a 35:28 halftime lead. Croatia finally cleared off in the third term. They opened a 15-point lead midway through the period. Italy faced a 16-point deficit heading into the final stanza. The Azzurri did not surrender and trimmed the distance to just 7 points with just over two minutes remaining in regulation. However Gabric drained a killer three-pointer and then Jakov Mustapic added two accurate free throws as Croatia gained an 11-point buffer. Imbro and Turel kept Italy hopeful with a pair of triples but they simply ran out of time to challenge the margin. Karlo Zganec (205-F/C-95) finished with 15 points and 11 rebounds, while Mislav Brzoja (196-F/G-94) and Dario Saric (208-F-94) added 12 points each for the winners. Simone Fontecchio (197-SF-95) answered with 17 points for Italy. Amedeo Tessitori (204-PF-94) had 13 points in defeat.

Croatia U18: Jakov Mustapic 16, Karlo Zganec 15+11 boards, Mislav Brzoja 12, Dario Saric 12
Italy U18: Simone Fontecchio 17, Amedeo Tessitori 13


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  CYPRUS   


5-strike from Ydra Asfalistiki ENAD - by Michael Aristidou


Ydra Asfalistiki ENAD Agios Dometios has completed their needs from EU and American market. The team came to an agreement with four Americans players and one EU player. Those are American power forward with Spanish passport Lewis Sims (203-F/C-73, agency: Strategic Sports, college: New Orleans), American forwards Avery Jukes (203-F-88, college: Butler) and Rob Wilson (193-G/F, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement), and American guards Derrick Ronald and Steven Bennett (173-PG-88, college: Chaminade).
We must mention that Lewis Sims was before 16 years in the team! The team also has in their roster Vassilis Kounas, Christodoulos Kaskiris and Giorgos Anastasiadis


Keravnos lands Julian Vaughn - by Chris Mammides

Keravnos Strovolou agreed financial terms with the American center Julian Vaughn (205-F-88, college: Georgetown). The player spent half the season with the Belgian Antwerp Giants in his rookie season in the European courts. The Georgetown graduate is a powerfull center which expected to add some energy and reboudns in the team of Coach Giannaras.

Other transfer news
ENAD agreed financial terms with Lewis Sims (203-F/C-73, college: New Orleans) who is coming back in the Agios Dometios team after the season 1996-97 (when the veteran American who is now 39 was just 23) where he spent one of his roockie seasons in the team of ENAD. Other than Sims, Coach Stylianidis team agreed financial terms with four American players as follows:
Derrick Roland (193-G-88, college: Texas A&M), Steven Bennett (173-PG-88, college: Chaminade), Rob Wilson (193-G/F-88) and Avery Jukes (203-F-88, college: Butler)


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  DENMARK   


U18 European Championship: France won over Denmark - by Eurobasket News

France U18-Denmark U18 76:70

France won over Denmark at the Classification Round for 13th to 16th Place at the U18 European Championship. The French side grabbed 76:70 victory.
Denmark surprised the opponents 28-22 in the first period. France replied with 18-16 in the second period and reduced to 4 points at the halftime. Moreover France erupted with 22-12 in the third period and never looked behind after. Both teams nailed 14 points each in the last stanza for the final result in the game.
Mouhammadou Jaiteh (206-C-94) top-scored for the winners with 31 points and 16 rebounds, while Alexandre Chassang (203-PF-94) posted 14. Antony Labanca (191-SF-94) delivered 12, while Benjamin Sene (186-PG-94) scored 8. Peter Moeller (190-PG-94) ended up with 19 points in the losing effort and Rasmus Larsen (212-C-94) had 17. Kristoffer Gertz (193-G-94) finished the game with 11 points in defeat.

France U18: Mouhammadou Jaiteh 31+16 rebs, Alexandre Chassang 14, Antony Labanca 12, Benjamin Sene 8
Denmark U18: Peter Moeller 19, Rasmus Larsen 17, Kristoffer Gertz 11


Casper Hesseldal returns to Denmark - by Christian Hamborg

After having spent four years in USA playing for three different teams at the JUCO and NAIA level, 26 year old forward Casper Casper Hesseldal (198-F-85, agency: Dynamics Global Management) returns to Denmark to play for Horsholm 79ers 79ers. Casper Hesseldal had four rather succesful years in USA and in his senior season averaged 15.4ppg and 7.0rpg playing for Dickinson St. (NAIA).
Before leaving for USA Casper Hesseldal played for Bakken Bears and was a three time Danish League Champion and was elected to play in the 2007-08 Danish All-Star Game. Casper Hesseldal played for the Danish National Team in 2010 winning the European Championships Div.C in Malta

Horsholm 79ers has lost many players during this season so a lot of weight will . Most notably Danish youngsters Alexander Bak (193-F-91), Philip Hertz (210-C/F-92) and Anders Haas (185-PG-92). All three will play at the college level in USA this season.
Continuing their careers in Horsholm 79ers are: Jonas Bro (186-PG-87), Zarko Jukic (200-F-93) and Bojan Marinkovic (209-C-84).


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


The French teams in the 2012/13 Eurochallenge - by Diamadis Farmakis

Four clubs in total will represent France in the 2012/13 EuroChallenge Regular Season. Although the French Pro A league ended as late as June, the teams are already busy on the transfer market. Paris, Nancy, Dijon, Gravelines. We analyse their rosters.

**Paris Levallois have added valuable experience to their roster by signing Maleye NDoye and John Cox

NDoye, a 2.02 m small forward from Senegal, has spent the previous eight years playing in Europe including seven seasons in the French top-flight

Cox is also facing his eighth campaign in France. The 31-year-old combo guard was one of the key players for Le Havre in the past two seasons

The most prominent acquisition for Paris, though, might be French international Antoine Diot.

Sidelined with a back injury, the 23-year-old only played four games for Le Mans in the past Pro A season and was a member of the French team at EuroBasket 2009.
.
In another deal, 21-year-old guard Malela Mutuale has been loaned to JDA Dijon.

**SLUC Nancy have announced their first two signings for the 2012-13 season.

Nicholas Pope and Marcellus Sommerville have both penned deals with the club.

Pope, a 1.98 m swingman and alumni of the University of Georgia, started his professional career in 2008. He spent the last three season in France's Pro A, playing for BCM Gravelines Dunkerque (2009-10) and STB Le Havre (2010-12).

Last season, the 28-year-old averaged 11.9 points and 4.1 rebounds and was called to the French All Star Game for the first time.

30-year-old Sommerville has plenty of experience in the Pro A as Nancy is already his eighth destination in France. The 2.00 m forward, who averaged 12.7 points and 5.8 rebounds last season at Le Mans, has signed a two-year contract.

**BCM Gravelines Dunkerque have signed Ousmane Sarra Camara to a three-year-contract.

The 2.04 m big man was a member of the French U20 team that won the silver medal at the 2009 European Championship.

Last season he averaged 5.7 points and 6.4 rebounds for Le Havre.
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Camara brings a lot of intensity. Last season was his first real season as a professional and his performances have been very promising.He is replacing Dounia Issa who, after two seasons with the club, is headed to 2012 league finalists Le Mans.

**The fourth French team in the upcoming EuroChallenge season, JDA Dijon, have announced their first roster changes at a press conference.

Apart from getting Paris' Mutuale on loan, the club has extended their contract with Jrmy Leloup and has agreed terms with Mykal Riley.

Riley, a 1.98 m swingman from the USA, is joining Dijon from fellow French club Nanterre, where he averaged 11.4 points and 4.7 rebounds last year.


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  EUROCUP   


Artur Drozdov joins Budivelnyk - by Eurobasket News

Artur Drozdov (200-SF-80) will continue his career in Budivelnyk. The forward had returned to the Kyiv team. He played for Budivelnyk in 2009/10 season. Artur Drozdov left Azovmash yesterday. He had bought out of his contract with the Mariupol team. The forward joined Azovmash at the start of the previous season. Artur Drozdov notched 10.7 points, 7.6 boards, 1.4 assists per game in Superleague. In VTB League his stats read 10.5 points, 6.4 rebounds, 1.0 assist and 1.0 steal per game. Artur Drozdov also notched 9.5 points and 4.0 rebounds per EuroCup appearance. He made it into All-Ukrainian Superleague Domestic Players Team. Previously Artur Drozdov had spells with Vanoli-Braga Cremona, Budivelnyk Kyiv, BC Kyiv, BC Donetsk, Pau-Orthez and Autodorozhnik Saratov. He was named All-French ProA Most Improved Player of the Year in 2003. Artur Drozdov has been playing for the Ukrainian National Team since 2003. He is the captain of the National Team.


Beverly Signs New Contract With St. Petersburg - by Uygar Karaca

According to championnat.com, Patrick Beverley (185-PG-88, college: Arkansas) signed a three year contract with Spartak St. Petersburg. Last season, the US point guard was one of the stars of the team, where he led St. Petersburg to Eurocup Final Four. There were rumours throughout the summer that Beverley. In fact, Beverly himself signalled from twitter that we would probably leave. However, although he had NBA option, St. Petersburg managed to keep him.


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  EUROLEAGUE   


2012 NBA preseason tips off Friday, Oct. 5, in Istanbul - by Diamadis Farmakis

The NBA today released its 2012 preseason schedule, a 115-game slate, which tips off Friday, Oct. 5, in Istanbul when the Boston Celtics take on Turkish basketball power Fenerbahce Ulker at Ulker Sports Arena, and concludes Friday, Oct. 26. NBA TV will televise the game in Istanbul.

Including the Istanbul game between the Celtics and Fenerbahce Ulker, the 2012 schedule features nine games played internationally, as NBA Europe Live 2012 presented by BBVA features single games each in Barcelon a, Berlin, Istanbul, and Milan as part of this year's tour

Following the game in Istanbul, the Celtics, led by veteran stars Kevin Garnett (6'11''-F-76), Paul Pierce and Rajon Rondo, move on to Milan to play EA7 Emporio Armani Milano at Mediolanum Forum on Oct. 7. Native son Dirk Nowitzki leads the Dallas Mavericks to Berlin where they will play Alba Berlin at O2 World on Oct. 6. Dallas wraps up NBA Europe Live 2012 presented by BBVA in Spain against FC Barcelona Regal in a game played at Palau Sant Jordi on Oct. 9. All four of the NBA's preseason contests in Europe will be telecast on NBA TV and the network will add further games to its preseason viewing schedule in the coming weeks.


Karaman move caused speculation - Manager talked Eurobasket.com - by Ugur Turker

Today, Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul announced that they signed 2+1 years deal with Ilkan Karaman (205-F-90). On the other hand, Galatasaray Medical Park Istanbul Head Coach Ergin Ataman (agency: Beo Basket ) said that Ilkan is still Galatasaray Medical Park Istanbul's player. After two sides' claims, Eurobasket.com Turkey reached manager of Ilkan Karaman.
" Galatasaray Medical Park Istanbul had to know that Ilkan was free agent after problem being licenced for 2012-2013 season. We agreed with Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul without any illegal action against Galatasaray Medical Park Istanbul. Rules will show that we are right. We can say that after approval of Basketball Federation, Ilkan is Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul palyer. " Ms. Akcil said.
Next weeks will show that who is right.


Regal Barcelona signs 4-year contract extension with Victor Sada (2+2) - by Eurobasket News

It's official. Regal Barcelona announced signing of Victor Sada (192-G-84) to 4-year deal (2+2). It means that Sada will stay with the club at least until the end of 2013/14 season. The Spanish guard had 3.1 ppg and 2.4 rpg for 21 Euroleague games last season. He also added 3 ppg, 3 rpg and 2.1 apg in 45 Liga Endesa games. In 2010/11 season Sada had pretty close numbers. He is a product of Barca, where he played until 2006. That year the player moved to Girona, where he stayed until 2008. Than Sada returned to Barca and it seems he will finish his basketball career there. They won four championship titles together and two Cup trophies. Barca also was Euroleague champion in 2010. Victor Sada just returned to the country from London, where he won the Silver with Spanish National Team. He had 2.6 ppg, 1.2 rpg and 1 apg for 5 games at the Olympics.


Fenerbahce Ulker adds Ilkan Karaman to 2+1 year deal - by Eurobasket News

Ilkan Karaman (205-F-90) is a new member of Fenerbahce Ulker. The Turkish power forward penned 2+1 year deal with his new club. Karaman arrives to Fener from Karsiyaka, where he spent last season. For 32 games in TBL the PF had 10.7 ppg and 6.4 rpg. The player also added 10.4 ppg and 7.3 rpg for 12 games in EuroChallenge. Before Karsiyaka, Ilkan Karaman spent four years with Tofas Bursa. In the past, he played for ITU Istanbul juniors. Karaman played for Turkish U20 National Team in 2009 and 2010. He had 9.8 ppg and 5.2 rpg for 9 games at U20 EuroBasket in Rhodes three years ago. This summer Karaman was invited to join Turkish senior NT camp. The player was selected as 57th overall pick this summer by the Brooklyn Nets. According to some sources, Ilkan Karaman had contract with Galatasaray but somehow it wasn't official, so the player moved to FB Ulker.


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

Standings Div.A (Men)

Standings
Group Qualification Gr.A
1. Montenegro.1-0
2. Serbia1-0
3. Estonia1-0
4. Iceland0-1
5. Israel0-1
6. Slovakia0-1
Group Qualification Gr.B
1. Azerbaijan.1-0
2. Bulgaria1-0
3. Germany0-0
4. Luxembourg.0-1
5. Sweden0-1
Group Qualification Gr.C
1. Austria1-0
2. Ukraine1-0
3. Croatia0-0
4. Cyprus0-1
5. Hungary0-1
Group Qualification Gr.D
1. Bosnia1-0
2. Romania1-0
3. Georgia0-0
4. Latvia0-1
5. Holland0-1
Group Qualification Gr.E
1. Belgium1-0
2. Finland1-0
3. Switzerlan.1-0
4. Poland0-1
5. Albania0-2
Group Qualification Gr.F
1. Czech Rep.1-0
2. Italy1-0
3. Turkey0-0
4. Portugal0-1
5. Belarus0-1

Qualifying Round: Round 2

A

Aug. 18: SVK - ISL
Aug. 18: SRB - MNT
Aug. 18: ISR - EST

B

Aug. 18: GER - LUX
Aug. 18: AZE - BUL

C

Aug. 18: AUT - UKR
Aug. 18: CRO - CYP

D

Aug. 18: GEO - ROM
Aug. 18: NED - BIH

E

Aug. 17: FIN - ALB 112-77
Aug. 18: SUI - POL

F

Aug. 18: TUR - BLR
Aug. 18: CZE - ITA


Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Gerti SHIMA
  ALB
  (202-PF-86)
  Avg: 16.5
 1. Shima, ALB16.5 
 2. Ndoja, ALB10.0 
 3. Luca, ALB9.5 
 4. Hysenagolli, ALB7.5 
 5. Karaj, ALB7.5 
 6. Vogli, ALB4.0 
 7. Magnusson, ISL3.5 
 8. Daliu, ALB3.0 
 9. Bilali, ALB2.5 
 10. Lasku, ALB2.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Endrit HYSENAGOLLI
  (204-C-88)
  Avg: 6.5
 1. Hysenagolli, ALB6.5 
 2. Shima, ALB6.5 
 3. Ndoja, ALB5.0 
 4. Luca, ALB4.5 
 5. Karaj, ALB4.0 
 6. Daliu, ALB2.0 
 7. Magnusson, ISL1.5 
 8. Vogli, ALB1.5 
 9. Lasku, ALB1.0 
 10. Bilali, A.1.0 
Assists Per Game
 Erkand KARAJ
  LUX
  (188-PG-82)
  Avg: 3.5
 1. Karaj, ALB3.5 
 2. Ndoja, ALB2.0 
 3. Shima, ALB1.5 
 4. Luca, ALB0.5 
 5. Daliu, ALB0.5 
 6. Lasku, ALB0.5 
 7. Vogli, ALB0.5 
 8. Hysenagolli, ALB0.0 
 9. Magnusson, ISL0.0 
 10. Gjonaj, A.0.0 
Steals Per Game
 Klaudio NDOJA
  ALB
  (198-SG-85)
  Avg: 1.5
 1. Ndoja, ALB1.5 
 2. Shima, ALB1.5 
 3. Karaj, ALB1.0 
 4. Luca, ALB0.5 
 5. Bilali, ALB0.5 
 6. Hysenagolli, ALB0.5 
 7. Magnusson, ISL0.0 
 8. Vogli, ALB0.0 
 9. Lasku, ALB0.0 
 10. Daliu, ALB0.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Bruno DALIU
  (206-C-85)
  Avg: 0.5
 1. Daliu, ALB0.5 
 2. Magnusson, ISL0.5 
 3. Karaj, ALB0.0 
 4. Gjonaj, ALB0.0 
 5. Ndoja, ALB0.0 
 6. Bilali, ALB0.0 
 7. Lasku, ALB0.0 
 8. Vogli, ALB0.0 
 9. Hysenagolli, ALB0.0 
 10. Shima, ALB0.0 



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  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U18   

Standings Division A

Standings
Group E
1. Lithuania5-0
2. Spain4-1
3. Serbia3-2
4. Italy2-3
5. Greece1-4
6. Ukraine0-5
Group F
1. Croatia4-1
2. Bulgaria3-2
3. Russia3-2
4. Latvia3-2
5. Turkey1-4
6. Slovenia1-4
Group G
1. France4-0
2. Germany3-1
3. Denmark1-3
4. Poland0-4

Quarter-Finals: Round 7

9-12 Place

Aug. 17: GRE - SLO 73-78
Aug. 17: TUR - UKR 70-60

G

Aug. 17: FRA - DEN 76-70
Aug. 17: POL - GER 52-74

Quarterfinal

Aug. 17: BUL - SRB 79-88
Aug. 17: CRO - ITA 76-69
Aug. 17: LTU - LAT 65-53
Aug. 17: ESP - RUS 56-58

Semi-Finals: Round 8

11-12 Place

Aug. 18: UKR - GRE

5-8 Place

Aug. 18: LAT - BUL
Aug. 18: ITA - ESP

9-10 Place

Aug. 18: SLO - TUR

G

Aug. 18: GER - FRA
Aug. 18: DEN - POL

Semifinal

Aug. 18: RUS - CRO
Aug. 18: LTU - SRB


Stats Leaders Div. A

Points Per Game
 Dario SARIC
  CRO
  (208-F-94)
  Avg: 23.7
 1. Saric, CRO23.7 
 2. Vezenkov, BUL19.4 
 3. Rebec, SLO19.0 
 4. Larsen, DEN17.0 
 5. Jaiteh, FRA16.4 
 6. Brzoja, CRO16.3 
 7. Agravanis, GRE16.3 
 8. Hrovat, SLO15.7 
 9. Tamulis, LTU15.4 
 10. Jankovic, SRB15.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Mouhammadou JAITEH
  (206-C-94)
  Avg: 11.9
 1. Jaiteh, FRA11.9 
 2. Saric, CRO9.5 
 3. Krestininas, LTU9.4 
 4. Jankovic, SRB8.4 
 5. Larsen, DEN8.0 
 6. Gromovs, LAT7.9 
 7. Diop, ESP7.4 
 8. Kulagin, RUS7.3 
 9. Agravanis, GRE7.3 
 10. Chassang, FRA7.3 
Assists Per Game
 Deyan KARAMFILOV
  (180-PG-94)
  Avg: 6.4
 1. Karamfilov, BUL6.4 
 2. Radicevic, SRB5.9 
 3. Rebec, SLO5.4 
 4. Sipahi, TUR4.4 
 5. Annaev, RUS4.3 
 6. Perez, ESP4.3 
 7. Mavra, CRO4.0 
 8. Sene, FRA3.4 
 9. Imbro, ITA3.3 
 10. Saric, CRO3.2 
Steals Per Game
 Jakov MUSTAPIC
  (193-G-94)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Mustapic, CRO2.9 
 2. Hrovat, SLO2.8 
 3. Karamfilov, BUL2.4 
 4. Vezenkov, BUL2.1 
 5. Annaev, RUS2.0 
 6. Lockhart, GER1.9 
 7. Boyarkin, UKR1.9 
 8. Karamalegkos, GRE1.9 
 9. Jaiteh, FRA1.9 
 10. Lekavicius, LTU1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Ilja GROMOVS
  (207-C-94)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. Gromovs, LAT2.7 
 2. Tessitori, ITA2.6 
 3. Diop, ESP2.0 
 4. Kanygin, RUS1.7 
 5. Saric, CRO1.7 
 6. Agravanis, GRE1.6 
 7. Krestininas, LTU1.4 
 8. Larsen, DEN1.3 
 9. Chassang, FRA1.3 
 10. Zagreba, UKR1.1 


Serbia, Croatia, Russia and Lithuania enter semifinals in Vilnius - by Eurobasket News

Quarterfinals
Spain - Russia 56-58
Russia came up with a huge upset in the first quarterfinal of the day at U18 European Championship. They overcame the defending champions Spain to reach the semis. Russia just made it into the quarterfinals but taught the Spaniards a good lesson claiming the spot in the next round. The teams stayed close throughout the opening quarter. The scoreboard read 15:15 after ten minutes. Russia pulled ahead in the second frame. They limited Spain to just 8 points in the period to ensure a 6-point halftime lead 29:23. Spain tried to bounce back in the third quarter. They opened it with 9 points in a row to surge ahead. But Russia returned advantage and eked out a 42:40 lead before the final frame. Kulagin and Rostislav Karenin (201-F/C-94) opened the final period with 8 consecutive points as Russia accumulated a 50:40 lead. Spain denied the deficit as Guillermo Hernangomez (209-C-94) tied things up at 56 with 46 seconds remaining. Igor Kanygin (207-F/C-94) dunked for Russian lead and then Spain could not score in the final 35 seconds as Russia got away with victory. Rostislav Karenin and Igor Kanygin provided 10 points each for Russia. Alexander Gankevich and Serdar Annaev added 8 points each for the winners. Alberto Diaz and Guillermo Hernangomez answered with 18 points each for Spain.

Bulgaria - Serbia 79-88
Serbia reach Semifinals in Vilnius as they won the Quarterfinal clash over Bulgaria. The Serbian side won 88:79 at the U18 European Championship in Division A. Serbia took 20:15 at the end of the first period but led only 1 point at the halftime. Bulgaria answered with 24-20 in the second frame as the board showed 40:39 after Denislav Vutev and Cvorovic baskets. Serbia later erupted with a 9-0 run to take 50:41 lead and Andric scored for 61:53. Nikola Radicevic (194-G-94) made two free throws to close the third period at 66:60. No matter how hard Bulgaria tried to recover they could not beat Serbia. Nikola Radicevic brought the final 10 points for the winners for the final result. Stefan Pot (195-G-94) stepped up with 24 points to lead Serbia to the semis. Nikola Radicevic collected 21 points and 11 assists, while Nikola Jankovic added 13. Aleksandar Vezenkov (205-SF-95) produced 16 points in the losing effort and Denislav Vutev scored 15. Kris Minkov notched 14, whilst Deyan Karamfilov had 8.

Lithuania - Latvia 65-53
Lithuania earned the place in U18 European Championship semifinals. They came out winners from the Baltic clash in the quarterfinal today. Marius Grigonis (198-F-94) scored 16 points to lead Lithuania past Latvia. Lithuania and Latvia stayed close throughout the opening quarter. Lithuania snatched a 15:14 lead at the first break. The hosts (teams played in Vilnius) stretched the margin in the second quarter. They ensured a 30:26 halftime lead. Lithuania opened a 7-point lead midway through the third term but Latvia denied it and spurred ahead for a 37:36 lead. Lithuania quickly returned the advantage and entered the fourth frame up by 4 points 47:43. Rokas Gustys and Lekavicius extended the lead to 10 points 59:49 with under two minutes to go. Latvia could not recover and had to surrender at the end. Denis Krestinin (202-PF-94) accounted for 9 points for Lithuania. Rokas Gustys added 8 points in the victory. Davis Geks (183-G/F-95) answered with 12 points for Latvia. Armands Ginters netted 10 points in defeat.

Croatia - Italy 76-69
Croatia made it into U18 European Championship semifinals. They overcame Italy to complete the semifinal picture. Jakov Mustapic (193-G-94) posted 16 points and 8 rebounds to lead the winners. Croatia entered the game recognized as big time favorite. However the Azzurri challenged their opponents and trailed by a single point 19:20 after ten minutes. Croatia intensified their defence in the second term. They limited Italy to 9 points in the quarter to surge ahead for a 35:28 halftime lead. Croatia finally cleared off in the third term. They opened a 15-point lead midway through the period. Italy faced a 16-point deficit heading into the final stanza. The Azzurri did not surrender and trimmed the distance to just 7 points with just over two minutes remaining in regulation. However Gabric drained a killer three-pointer and then Jakov Mustapic added two accurate free throws as Croatia gained an 11-point buffer. Imbro and Turel kept Italy hopeful with a pair of triples but they simply ran out of time to challenge the margin. Karlo Zganec (205-F/C-95) finished with 15 points and 11 rebounds, while Mislav Brzoja and Dario Saric added 12 points each for the winners. Simone Fontecchio (197-SF-95) answered with 17 points for Italy. Amedeo Tessitori had 13 points in defeat.
9-12 Place
Turkey - Ukraine 70-60
Turkey will play for the 9th place at U18 European Championship. They defeated Ukraine in the classification round encounter today. Turkey will face Slovenia tomorrow. Ukraine will cap their campaign against Greece. Turkey and Ukraine stayed on level terms throughout the opening quarter. Turkey eked out a 14:13 lead after ten minutes. Ukraine bounced back in the second quarter. They denied the deficit and drew things level at 24. Turkey increased the tempo after the big break. They knocked down 21 points in the third stanza and opened a 4-point lead. The margin grew at 10-point mark with under three minutes remaining. Ukraine did not recover as Turkey rallied to a relatively easy win at the end. Kerem Kanter (203-PF-95) posted 14 points for Turkey. Kenan Sipahi (198-PG-95) added 11 points, while Burak Yildizli had 10 points for the winners. Yevgen Sakhniuk (201-PF-95) answered with 14 points for Ukraine. Stanislav Kudrya had 11 points in the loss.

Greece - Slovenia 73-78
Slovenia prevailed against Greece in the classification round of U18 European Championship. Slovenia will now take on the winners of Turkey vs. Ukraine clash for the 9th place tomorrow. Slovenia eked out a 19:17 lead ten minutes into the game. Greece got within a single point at halftime 39:40. But Slovenia managed to deepen the margin in the third quarter. They extended the lead to as many as 10 points at the final break. The Hellenes got within two points 71:73 with just over three minutes to go. However Matic Rebec (180-PG-95) knocked down five free throws in the dying minutes to seal the victory for Slovenia. Tomaz Bolcina (206-F/C-94) and Andraz Rogelija (187-PG-95) finished with 13 points for the winners. Matic Rebec topscored with 20 points in the victory. Diamantis Slaftsakis (200-SF-94) answered with 20 points for Greece. Dimitrios Agravanis netted 15 points in the loss.

Group G
Poland - Germany 52-74
Germany stays in the fight to remain in U18 European Championship in Division A. They defeated Poland today to improve at 3-1 record in relegation round Group G. Poland slipped at 0-4 record and lost the chance to stay in top division for next year. David Taylor (188-PG-95) scored 14 points to lead the winners. Germany eked out a 22:15 lead after ten minutes. Poland lived up to the challenge and turned the tables in the second quarter. They went on a run to take a 35:34 halftime lead. Germany stiffened defensively in the third quarter. They held Poland to just 5 points in the period and grabbed a 50:40 lead into the fourth frame. Germany scored 24 points in the final frame and sealed a comfortable win at the end. Malik Mueller (188-G-94) accounted for 11 points, while Dominic Lockhart and Johannes Thiemann added 10 points each in the victory. Damian Jeszke (202-PF-95) answered with 13 points for Poland. Mikolaj Witlinski had 9 points in the loss.

France - Denmark 76-70
France won over Denmark at the Classification Round for 13th to 16th Place at the U18 European Championship. The French side grabbed 76:70 victory. Denmark surprised the opponents 28-22 in the first period. France replied with 18-16 in the second period and reduced to 4 points at the halftime. Moreover France erupted with 22-12 in the third period and never looked behind after. Both teams nailed 14 points each in the last stanza for the final result in the game. Mouhammadou Jaiteh (206-C-94) top-scored for the winners with 31 points and 16 rebounds, while Alexandre Chassang (203-PF-94) posted 14. Antony Labanca delivered 12, while Benjamin Sene scored 8. Peter Moeller (190-PG-94) ended up with 19 points in the losing effort and Rasmus Larsen had 17. Kristoffer Gertz finished the game with 11 points in defeat.


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


Finland cruise past Albania in Helsinki - by Eurobasket News

Finland - Albania 112:77

Finland celebrated the first win at 2013 EuroBasket Qualifying Round. They marched past Albania in Helsinki. Petteri Koponen (194-PG-88) scored 29 points to lead the hosts. Albania fell at 0-2 record after the loss.
Finland set the tone in the opening quarter. The hosts unloaded 37 points to take 19-point lead at the first break. Finland stayed dominant in the second quarter. The home team extended their lead to 31-point mark at the interval. Albania erupted for 30 points in the third term but cut the deficit by just one point at the final intermission. Finland adjusted defence in the fourth term limiting Albania to 17 points and claiming an easy victory at the end. Shawn Huff (198-SF-84, college: Valparaiso) posted 19 points, while Mikko Koivisto (194-G-87, college: NC-Greensboro) added 11 points for the winners. Gerti Shima (202-PF-86) answered with 23 points and 10 rebounds for Albania. Klaudio Ndoja (198-SG-85) had 18 points in the loss.

Finland: Petteri Koponen 29, Shawn Huff 19, Mikko Koivisto 11
Albania: Gerti Shima 23+10 boards, Klaudio Ndoja 18


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


U18 European Championship: France won over Denmark - by Eurobasket News

France U18-Denmark U18 76:70

France won over Denmark at the Classification Round for 13th to 16th Place at the U18 European Championship. The French side grabbed 76:70 victory.
Denmark surprised the opponents 28-22 in the first period. France replied with 18-16 in the second period and reduced to 4 points at the halftime. Moreover France erupted with 22-12 in the third period and never looked behind after. Both teams nailed 14 points each in the last stanza for the final result in the game.
Mouhammadou Jaiteh (206-C-94) top-scored for the winners with 31 points and 16 rebounds, while Alexandre Chassang (203-PF-94) posted 14. Antony Labanca (191-SF-94) delivered 12, while Benjamin Sene (186-PG-94) scored 8. Peter Moeller (190-PG-94) ended up with 19 points in the losing effort and Rasmus Larsen (212-C-94) had 17. Kristoffer Gertz (193-G-94) finished the game with 11 points in defeat.

France U18: Mouhammadou Jaiteh 31+16 rebs, Alexandre Chassang 14, Antony Labanca 12, Benjamin Sene 8
Denmark U18: Peter Moeller 19, Rasmus Larsen 17, Kristoffer Gertz 11


Antibes and Jeff Allen to part ways - by Eurobasket News

Jeff Allen (201-F/C-87, college: Virginia Tech) will most likely leave Antibes soon. The American big guy signed a 2-year deal last summer, but according to local media they are already in negotiations to terminate it. Allen appeared 32 times for the club in ProB averaging 13.5 points and 8.2 rebounds. It was his first year as a pro. Jeff Allen is a product of Virginia Tech University, where he graduated in 2011. He had 13.4 ppg and 9.7 rpg for his school in 34 games as a senior. The player was named to All-ACC 2nd Team -11. As a junior Allen had 12 ppg and 7.4 rpg, also in 34 appearances. He helped Virginia Tech to reach NIT Elite Eight in 2008 and 2010. In 2008, he was named to ACC All-Freshman Team.


Dijon brings in T.J. Campbell for 1-month tryout - by Eurobasket News

Dijon brought in T.J. Campbell (175-PG-88, college: Portland), but they still didn't sign a deal. The American will spent one month on tryout and will try to convince the coaching staff to keep him. The guard spent the last season in D-League. He played for the Canton Charge. T.J. Campbell notched 13.0 points, 3.2 rebounds and 5.3 assists per game. The guard participated at NBA Pro Summer League in Las Vegas. He tallied 5.2 points, 2.2 assists and 1.6 rebounds per game for the Cleveland Cavaliers. T.J. Campbell started his pro career in Australia. He played for the Melbourne Tigers. Later the guard moved to Turkey to sign with TED Kolejilier Ankara. He became Turkish TB2L champion with the team. Campbell played for the University of Portland from 2008 to 2010. He had 13.7 ppg, 5.6 apg and 2.5 rpg for 32 games in their second season. In 2009 and 2010, the player was named to All-WCC 1st Team. In 2009, he was awarded with WCC Co-Newcomer of the Year.


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  GERMANY   


U18 European Championship: Germany beat Poland in Vilnius - by Eurobasket News

Germany U18 - Poland U18 74:52

Germany stays in the fight to remain in U18 European Championship in Division A. They defeated Poland today to improve at 3-1 record in relegation round Group G. Poland slipped at 0-4 record and lost the chance to stay in top division for next year. David Taylor (188-PG-95) scored 14 points to lead the winners.
Germany eked out a 22:15 lead after ten minutes. Poland lived up to the challenge and turned the tables in the second quarter. They went on a run to take a 35:34 halftime lead. Germany stiffened defensively in the third quarter. They held Poland to just 5 points in the period and grabbed a 50:40 lead into the fourth frame. Germany scored 24 points in the final frame and sealed a comfortable win at the end. Malik Mueller (188-G-94) accounted for 11 points, while Dominic Lockhart (197-F-94) and Johannes Thiemann (203-F-94) added 10 points each in the victory. Damian Jeszke (202-PF-95) answered with 13 points for Poland. Mikolaj Witlinski (207-F/C-95) had 9 points in the loss.

Germany U18: David Taylor 14, Malik Mueller 11, Dominic Lockhart 10, Johannes Thiemann 10
Poland U18: Damian Jeszke 13, Mikolaj Witlinski 9


Max Massing Signs With The ETB Wohnbau Baskets essen - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

PRO A team ETB Wohnbau Baskets Essen brought some youth to their roster with Max Massing (204-F-93) Massing is a 19 year old 203cm forward that last played for the Gloria Giants junior team. "Max is a very talented player that has good conditions to get established in the next two years", stressed ETB Wohnbau Baskets head coach Igor Krizanovic . The young German who was born in Duesseldorf is happy to be playing in Essen now. "I am very happy that it finally happened that I can play in Essen. They have a very good infrastructure, good coaches and I feel very comfortable here and enjoy the great atmosphere. I will give my best and hope the atmosphere is as great as last season", added Max Massing

Source: ETB Wohnbau Baskets


Allan Ray Brings Some Celtic Pride From The NBA To ratiopharm Ulm - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Allan Ray (188-G-84, college: Villanova) might only have played 47 NBA games in a Boston Celtic uniform getting a taste of Celtic Pride, but he knows what it is like to give everything for an organization and will show his true colours this season with 2012 Beko BBL finalist ratiopharm Ulm getting a one dear deal. Ray is a 28 year old 188cm combo guard from the Bronx, New York that will start his seventh professional season and will replace defensive specialist Rocky Trice who leaves the team after three seasons of duty. Ray has been a solid fixture in Europe since 2007 having played in countries like Italy, Slovenia and France. Last season, he played for Krka Novo Mesto (Slovenia-Telemach League, starting five): Adriatic League: 1 game: 10pts, 1reb; EuroCup: 2 games: 18.5ppg, 1.5rpg, 4.0apg, 1.5spg, later that month moved to Elan Bearnais Pau-Lacq-Orthez (France-ProA, starting five): French League: 22 games: 15.2ppg, 2.5rpg, 2.5apg, FGP: 50.4%, 3PT: 39.5%, FT: 89.6%; EuroChallenge: 3 games: 14.3ppg, 6.3rpg, 1.0apg. "Allan is a very versatile player that can set strong aspects on offense and defense. His expereince will help when we start our first international season and when we wnat to attack in the Beko BBL", stressed ratiopharm Ulm head coach Thorsten Leibenath h.

Ray started his professional basketball career in 2002 for Villanova where he played a total of 130 NCAA games and in his senior year played 32 games averaging 18.5ppg, 3.6rpg, 1.4apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 38.9%, 3PT: 37.2%, FT: 88.9%. Ray will see an old firend thiss eason when he plays against the s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg, because Dwayne Anderson was a freshman when Ray played his senior year. In 2006-2007, the American started his professional career for the Boston Celtics (NBA), in Feb.'07 was assigned to Austin Toros (D-League): 2 games: 14.5ppg, 2.5rpg, 2.0apg, in March '07 recalled to Boston Celtics (NBA): 47 games: 6.2ppg, 1.5rpg, FGP: 38.6%, 3PT: 41.4%, FT: 76.4%. In 2007-2008, he made the jump to Europe playing for Lottomatica Virtus Roma (Italy-SerieA) playing Euroleague: 15 games: 9.3ppg, 2.8rpg, 2.3apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 34.8%, 3PT: 29.9%, FT: 87.2%; Italian League: 20 games: 13.5ppg, 3.8rpg, 2.2apg, 1.7spg, 2FGP:49.4%, 3PT:44.3%, FT:77.4%. In 2008-2009, he played for Lottomatica Virtus Roma (Italy-SerieA, starting five): Italian League: 9 games: 12.9ppg, 2.4rpg, 1.6apg, 3.3spg, FGP: 54.2%, 3PT: 29.0%, FT: 90.2%; Euroleague: 6 games: 6.8ppg, 2.0rpg, 2.3apg, left team in Jan.'09, later that month moved to Carife Ferrara (Italy-Serie A, starting five): 15 games: 15.5ppg, 5.2rpg, 2.0apg, Steals-5 (2.7spg), FGP: 47.4%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 84.3%. In 2010-2011, he remained in Italy playing for Fabi Shoes Montegranaro (Italy-SerieA, starting five): 29 games: 10.3ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.5apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 44.3%, 3PT: 32.5%, FT: 74.3%. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been Big East Tournament Semifinals -04, 05, 06, All-Big East 3rd Team -04, NIT Quarterfinals -04, NABC All-NCAA District 3 1st Team -05, All-Big East 2nd Team -05, NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 -05, USA U21 National Team -05, World Championships U21 in Argentina -05, Big East Regular Season Runner-Up -06, All-Big East 1st Team -06, USBWA All-NCAA District I Team -06, NCAA Sweet 8 -06, Italian SerieA Regular Season Runner-Up -08, Italian SerieA Finalist -08, and Italian Cup Semifinals -11

Source: ratiopharm Ulm


Tobias Stoll Joins The BIS Baskets Speyer - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber


The Regionaliga team BIS Baskets Speyer have secured 9 years of Second German Bundesliga experience with Tobias Stoll (186-F-83, college: Cent.Washington) Stoll is a 29 year old 186cm guard that played for USC Heidelberg the last two seasons. "Tobias is a win for our team. He has a good overview of the game and makes it fast and attraktive", stated BIS Baskets Speyer manager Gerd Kopf. Stoll started his basketball career in 2001 for USC Heidelberg. He then played two seasons for KuSG Leimen (2Bundesliga) until 2004. In the 2004-2005 season he played for TV Langen (2.Bundesliga): 25 games: 5.4ppg, 2.7rpg, 3.6apg, 1.7spg, 2FGP: 42%, 3FGP: 20.0%, FT: 44.4%. He then played again for uSC Heidelberg from 2005-2008. In 2008-2009, he played for Proveo Merlins Crailsheim (ProB): 23 games: 3.4ppg, 1.8rpg, 4.2apg, 1.0spg. In 2009-2010, he played for BG Karlsruhe (ProA): 27 games: 1.4ppg, 1.2apg. Awards/Achievements in his absketball career have been German 2.Bundesliga Pro B Champion -09, German 2.Regionalliga (Southwest-South Group) Champion -11, Eurobasket.com All-Regionalliga South-West Honorable Mention -12, and Eurobasket.com Regionalliga South-West All-Domestic Players Team -12

Spource:BIS Baskets Speyer


The Artland Dragons Release Lamayn Wilson - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Things can change so quickly for a basketball team that sometimes you just want to turn back the clock as the Artland Dragons experienced today. The 2008 Beko BBL cup winner had to say farewell to Lamayne Wilson (204-F-80, college: Troy) who was unable to pass the medical check and also learned that Demond Mallet (186-G-78, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: McNeese St.) will miss a few weeks due to a rupture of the muscle fiber in his left pectoral muscle. The team is unable to know exactly when the 2008 ULEB cup winner will be able to get back into the practice routine and will look for a practice player until he returns.

Source: Artland Dragons



Florian Wendeler Completes Bayer Giants Leverkusen Roster - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

The Bayer Giants Leverkusen have filled their roster with Florian Wendeler. Florian Wendeler is a 18 year old 205cm, 100 kilogram center that is very athletic. In the last U19 NBBL season, the young German averaged 3,3ppg and 4,1rpg. "Florian is able to keep up physically and is a good rebounder on account of his athletic ability and jumping skills", stressed Giants head coach Achim Kuczmann The German coach also explained why he chose a German and not an external player. "We have decided to give our talents a chance and not get an external player. However should we come across an interesting player than we could think about it", added Achim Kuczmann




Blair Wheadon signs with RSV Eintracht - by Moritz Korff

RSV Eintracht Teltow/Kleinmachnow/Stahnsdorf (2. Bundesliga Pro B) has made its first import player signing this summer. Blair Wheadon (187-G) will start his overseas career with RSV Eintracht. The 22-year-old comes from Western Oregon University (NCAA Division Two). he averaged 16.1 points, 3.1 rebounds, 3.0 assists and 2.2 steals per contest for the Wolves last season. "It has always been a lifelong goal (to play basketball professionally). I love to travel and I get to avoid working 9 to 5 while playing basketball", he told wouwolves.com.


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  GREECE   


Ilysiakos returns Mihalis Paragios after 5 years - by Eurobasket News

Mihalis Paragios (206-F-82) is back to Ilysiakos, the team officially announced. He spent last four seasons with Panionios Athens. In the latest one Paragios averaged 2.6 points and 1.5 rebounds for 30 games in A1. He had 4.7 ppg and 1.7 rpg in 2010/11 for 23 appearances. Before Panionios, Mihalis Paragios spent one year with Marousi, but he had very limited playing time there. The forward already played for Ilysiakos from 2005 to 2007. He shined with 12.2 ppg and 4.7 rpg for 30 games in their second season. The team competed in A2 at that time and Paragios was named to Eurobasket.com All-Greek A2 2nd Team. In the past, Mihalis Paragios played for Ionikos Nikeas and Aris Glyfadas.
Two weeks ago Ilysiakos penned a deal with Maurice Hampton (188-SG-84, agency: Two Points, college: Austin Peay St.).


Asimakopoulos returns to Aris - by George Fragkos

Six years after his departure from Aris Thessaloniki, Antonis Asimakopoulos (204-F-76) returns to Alexandreio where he lived his most important moments as a player. The club from Thessaloniki announced the signing of the 36-year-old forward who will remain at the roster for at least one year.

The experienced forward has been a member of VAP Kolossos Rodou since 2007 having a good presence as a whole and helping the team from Rhodes improve and even reach the semi-finals of the Greek A1. Even though he was not a starting five player, his contribution was big, having approximately 5 points and 4 rebounds per game the last two years.

During his previous spell at Aris, except from reaching the semi-finals of the Greek A1, Asimakopoulos was also a member of the team that entered the final of the ULEB Cup, where the Greeks were defeated by Dinamo Moscow.


U18 European Championship: Slovenia beat Greece - by Eurobasket News

Slovenia U18 - Greece U18 78:73

Slovenia prevailed against Greece in the classification round of U18 European Championship. Slovenia will now take on the winners of Turkey vs. Ukraine clash for the 9th place tomorrow.
Slovenia eked out a 19:17 lead ten minutes into the game. Greece got within a single point at halftime 39:40. But Slovenia managed to deepen the margin in the third quarter. They extended the lead to as many as 10 points at the final break. The Hellenes got within two points 71:73 with just over three minutes to go. However Matic Rebec (180-PG-95) knocked down five free throws in the dying minutes to seal the victory for Slovenia. Tomaz Bolcina (206-F/C-94) and Andraz Rogelija (187-PG-95) finished with 13 points for the winners. Matic Rebec topscored with 20 points in the victory. Diamantis Slaftsakis (200-SF-94) answered with 20 points for Greece. Dimitrios Agravanis (208-F-94, agency: FCM) netted 15 points in the loss.

Slovenia U18: Matic Rebec 20, Tomaz Bolcina 13, Andraz Rogelija 13
Greece U18: Diamantis Slaftsakis 20, Dimitrios Agravanis 15


Ben Wallace to Panathinaikos ? - by Eurobasket

According to Gazzetta.gr, Panathinaikos is interested in well-known NBA center Ben Wallace (206-C-74, college: Virginia Union). Wallace played last 3 seasons at Detroit Pistons (NBA). He was paid $2,246,400 last year and considering that his stats are not that impressive any more (1.4ppg, 4.3rpg), he is basically a burden in a payroll of any team, which would like to pay that money. Detroit fans love him as he is one of best-known players in Motown recent history, especially that he was considered one of the top centers in NBA in his first time with the Pistons (2001-2006). But at that time he averaged even 15.4rpg (!!!). However that time is a long past. In 2006 he moved for a $60-million contract to the Chicago Bulls, where he put still very decent numbers in the first season. Then however his stats went down the drain and many specialists consider his NBA career being over at that point. Additionally he got last season into some legal problems, which none NBA team likes to deal with. Wallace was arrested on Sep.24, 2011 in Bloomfield Township, Michigan around 3 a.m. for operating a vehicle while intoxicated, carrying a concealed weapon, after police observed his vehicle driving erratically. He had a blood-alcohol content of 0.14 percent. Also, police found an unloaded pistol in a backpack. Well, that pistol may be handu considering recent riots in Athens...


Cimberio Varese lands Akepsemaidis - by Eurobasket Center

Cimberio Varese strengthened their roster with addition of 25-year old Greek guard Lefteris Akepsemaidis (192-G-87). Akepsemaidis played most recently at Marousi BC (Greece). While playing 24 games for Marousi last season he averaged 7.2ppg, 1.3rpg and 2.0apg.

By Eurobasket Data Center


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  HONG KONG   


U18 Championship: Lebanon reached the second straight win - by Eurobasket News

Hong Kong U18-Lebanon U18 70:113

Lebanon outscored Hong Kong in the start of Day 2 at the 22nd FIBA Asia U18 Championship. Lebanon reached the second straight win after 113:70 over the opponents.
Lebanon grabbed 16:12 after the first five minutes of the game and increased to 25:18. They led 39:26 midway through the second frame and grabbed 59:29 halftime advantage. The board showed 78:47 after 5 minutes in the third period and then Lebanon finished the third period at 90:52. They reached three digit number with 5 minutes to go and closed the game with 113:70 on the board.
Wael Arakji (192-G-94) top-scored for the winners with 21 points and Jimmy Salem (190-G-95) nailed 17. Ali Mezher (182-PG-94) delivered 15, while Georges Choueiry (184-G-95) added 13. CHANG Yiu fai and Ng Chun Yan (196-C-12) replied with 14 points each as the latter also grabbed 11 rebounds. Tsai Choi Kwan (186-SF-95) posted 11 and Ho Chun Kit (191-C-95) notched 11.

Hong Kong U18: Chang Yiu-Fai (168-PG-94) 14, Ng Chun Yan 14+11 rebs, Tsai Choi Kwan 11, Ho Chun Kit 11
Lebanon U18: Wael Arakji 21, Jimmy Salem 17, Ali Mezher 15, Georges Choueiry 13


U18 Championship: China trounce Hong Kong in opener - by Eurobasket News

China U18 - Hong Kong U18 153:47

U18 Asia Championship reigning champions China opened their title defence in style. They exploded with 153 points to silence Hong Kong in Group A action. Wang Zhelin (215-C/F-94) came up with 28 points to lead China.
China started strong as they fired 34 points in the first quarter. They piled up a 19-point lead at the first break. China added 34 more points in the second quarter taking a massive 38-point halftime advantage. The defending champions went on a killer 44:5 run in the third term to leave Hong Kong far behind. China cruised to the victory in the final period. Li Jinglong (195-F-95) posted 20 points, while Gao Shang (198-F/G-94) and Dai Huaibo (205-C/F-94) added 19 points each for the winners. Ng Chun Yan (196-C-12) answered with 18 points for Hong Kong. Tsoi Hung Hing (191-F-95) accounted for 8 points in the loss.

China U18: Wang Zhelin 28, Li Jinglong 20, Gao Shang 19, Dai Huaibo 19
Hong Kong U18: Ng Chun Yan 18, Tsoi Hung Hing 8


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  HUNGARY   


Christopher Dunn is a newcomer at Kaposvari KK - by Eurobasket Center

Kaposvari KK added to their roster 29-year old American guard Christopher Dunn (189-G-83, college: W.Virginia St., agency: Court Side). Dunn played most recently at Lions de Geneve (Switzerland). While playing 14 games for Geneve Lions (signed there last March after coming from French JSA Bordeaux) last season he recorded 15.1ppg, 2.9rpg, 4.9apg (4th best in the league) and 1.3spg. He helped them to make it to the final. Dunn is a very experienced player. He played also pro basketball in Belgium, Cyprus, Dominican Rep., France, Spain and Switzerland. Dunn graduated West Virginia State University in 2006 and it will be his seventh season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center


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


Logi Gunnarsson not with Iceland against Slovakia - by Snorri Arnaldsson

Logi Gunnarsson (192-SG-81) did not travel with the Icelandic National Team to Slovakia due to illness.

Logi Gunnarsson is the most experienced player on the Icelandic squad with 81 national team games under his belt, and the team will surely miss him in the tough encounter in Slovakia. Against Serbia, Logi Gunnarsson tallied 3 points in 8 minutes. Logi is expected to play the next home game against Israel on August 21st.


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  INDIA   


U18 Championship: Lebanon hold off India - by Eurobasket News

Lebanon U18 - India U18 65:61

Lebanon secured the opening win at the U18 Asia Championship in Ulaanbaatar. They sneaked past pesky India in Group A opener. Wael Arakji (192-G-94) scored 25 points to lead the winners.
Lebanon jumped to an 8:2 lead but India quickly rebounded. They narrowed the gap and eventually tied things up at 16 after ten minutes. The lead changed hands throughout intense second quarter. India pulled ahead late in the period and secured a 34:30 halftime lead. Lebanon managed to return in front in the third quarter. They eked out a 51:47 lead heading into the fourth frame. Lebanon kept India at distance throughout the final term. They managed to ensure a narrow but important victory at the end. Jimmy Salem (190-G-95) accounted for 18 points, while Karim Tabaja (198-F/C-94) added 6 points for Lebanon. Palpreet Singh Brar (204-C-94) answered with game-high 28 points for India. Amit Kanarjee (187-PG-94) finished with 13 points in the loss.

Lebanon U18: Wael Arakji 25, Jimmy Salem 18, Karim Tabaja 6
India U18: Palpreet Singh Brar 28, Amit Kanarjee 13


U18 Championship: China roll over India in Day 2 - by Eurobasket News

India U18-China U18 54:119

China roll over India in Day 2 of the 22nd FIBA Asia U18 Championship The Chinese team did not have any difficulties reaching 119:54 win.
China erupted with 17-2 surge in the first five minutes and never looked behind after. They led 27:4 at the end of the first period and increased to 44:9 midway through the second frame. The board showed 55:14 when the teams went to the lockers at the halftime. In the second half China continued their dominance and produced two victories in the periods. They led 88:33 with 10 minutes to go and reached three digit number early in the last quarter. Moreover they scored another 19 points for a comfortable win.
Gao Shang (198-F/G-94) top-scored for the winners with 22 points and Wang Zhelin (215-C/F-94) as well as BA I Bing had 15 each. Dai Huaibo (205-C/F-94) delivered 13, while Wu Qian (190-G-94) and Li Qi (198-F-95) scored 11 apiece. Rakesh Singh ended up with 19 points and 10 rebounds in defeat, while Narender Satyawan posted 10. BHA SIN Akash followed them with 9 points in the losing effort.

India U18: Rakesh Singh (198-PF-95) 19+10 rebs, Narender Satyawan (176-PG-96) 10, BHA SIN A kash 9
China U18: Gao Shang 22, Wang Zhelin 15, Bai Bing (200-F-95) 15, Dai Huaibo 13, Wu Qian 11, Li Qi 11


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  INDONESIA   


U18 Championship: Taiwan fire past Indonesia in Ulaanbaatar - by Eurobasket News

Taiwan U18 - Indonesia U18 99:44

Taiwan celebrated the first win at the U18 Asia Championship. They overcame Indonesia in Group C. Lu Kuan-Hsuan (180-G-95) and Fang Shih-En (199-C-94) led the charge with 18 points each.
Taiwan limited their opponents to just 8 points in the opening quarter to take a 16-point lead. Taiwan opened the second frame on a 19:3 run to clear off. They established a 49:17 lead at halftime. The margin just kept on growing throughout the third quarter. Taiwan ensured a 71:28 lead into the fourth stanza. They did not slow down in the fourth period and celebrated a well-deserved win at the end. Lee Chia-Jui (200-C-94) accounted for 11 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Jan Panagan (179-G-94) and Kristianto Halim (201-C-94) answered with 11 points each for Indonesia.

Taiwan U18: Lu Kuan-Hsuan 18, Fang Shih-En 18, Lee Chia-Jui 11
Indonesia U18: Jan Panagan 11, Kristianto Halim 11


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  IRAN   


U18 Championship: Kazakhstan no match for Iran in opener - by Eurobasket News

Iran U18 - Kazakhstan U18 105:46

Iran cruised to the opening win at the U18 Asia Championship. They took on Kazakhstan in Group C and clinched a confident win at the end. Behnam Yakhchali (191-G-95) stepped up with 21 points, 7 steals and 6 boards to pace the winners.
Iran led by just six points after the slow first quarter 17:11. But they shifted the gear in the second frame. Iran went on a massive 32:8 run to take a 30-point lead at halftime. The rest of the game was a one-way traffic. Iran stayed in charge and coasted to the victory. Vahid Dalirzahan (199-SF-95) posted 14 points and 9 rebounds, while Hossein Rahmati (204-C-93) added 12 points in the win. Maxim Marchuk (195-F/G-94) answered with 16 points for Kazakhstan. Nurlybek Nurkhanov (180-PG-94) netted 7 points in the losing effort.

Iran U18: Behnam Yakhchali 21, Vahid Dalirzahan 14, Hossein Rahmati 12
Kazakhstan U18: Maxim Marchuk 16, Nurlybek Nurkhanov 7


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  ITALY   


Trieste inks deal with PG Ariel Filloy - by Eurobasket News

Trieste added another new player for the upcoming season. The team penned a deal with Argentinean/Italian point guard Ariel Filloy (189-PG-87, agency: Interperformances). The 25-year-old player heads to his new club from EA7 Emporio Armani Milano, where he played last season. Filloy collected 2.6 ppg and 1.4 rpg for 16 SerieA games. In Euroleague, he appeared only 3 times posting 4.7 ppg and 1 rpg. Ariel Filloy played for Milano also from 2008 to 2010. Season 2010/11 he spent with Pistoia in LegaDue. There the player registered 10.4 ppg, 3.6 rpg and 2.2 apg for 33 games. Filloy was a member of Rimini from 2004 to 2008 and before that he played for Sassari. In 2007 with Italian U20 NT he won the bronze medal at U20 EuroBasket in Nova Gorica. He had 2.9 ppg and 2.3 rpg for 8 games at this event.


Napoli inks guard Juan Marcos Casini - by Eurobasket News

Napoli continues with signings for the upcoming season. Their latest addition is Argentinean guard Marcos Casini (188-PG-80). The player has Italian passport. Casini spent last two seasons with Givova Scafati. In the latest one he had 8.9 ppg, 2.4 rpg and 1.4 apg for 37 games. The player had 5.1 ppg and 1.8 rpg for Scafati in their first season together. Before Scafati, Marcos Casini played year and a half for Pistoia. There he had 9.1 ppg and 2.9 rpg in 34 LegaDue games (2009/10 season). In the past, Casini played for Boca Juniors, Cantu and Jesi. With Jesi he was LegaDue champion in 2004. Marcos Casini also has experience from Andino La Rioja, Regatas and Atenas.


U18 European Championship: Croatia edge Italy to stay in title fray - by Eurobasket News

Croatia U18 - Italy U18 76:69

Croatia made it into U18 European Championship semifinals. They overcame Italy to complete the semifinal picture. Jakov Mustapic (193-G-94) posted 16 points and 8 rebounds to lead the winners.
Croatia entered the game recognized as big time favorite. However the Azzurri challenged their opponents and trailed by a single point 19:20 after ten minutes. Croatia intensified their defence in the second term. They limited Italy to 9 points in the quarter to surge ahead for a 35:28 halftime lead. Croatia finally cleared off in the third term. They opened a 15-point lead midway through the period. Italy faced a 16-point deficit heading into the final stanza. The Azzurri did not surrender and trimmed the distance to just 7 points with just over two minutes remaining in regulation. However Gabric drained a killer three-pointer and then Jakov Mustapic added two accurate free throws as Croatia gained an 11-point buffer. Imbro and Turel kept Italy hopeful with a pair of triples but they simply ran out of time to challenge the margin. Karlo Zganec (205-F/C-95) finished with 15 points and 11 rebounds, while Mislav Brzoja (196-F/G-94) and Dario Saric (208-F-94) added 12 points each for the winners. Simone Fontecchio (197-SF-95) answered with 17 points for Italy. Amedeo Tessitori (204-PF-94) had 13 points in defeat.

Croatia U18: Jakov Mustapic 16, Karlo Zganec 15+11 boards, Mislav Brzoja 12, Dario Saric 12
Italy U18: Simone Fontecchio 17, Amedeo Tessitori 13


Enel Brindisi announce Cedric Simmons - by Eurobasket News

Enel Brindisi announced the arrival of Cedric Simmons (206-F/C-86, college: N.Carolina St.). The centre spent the last season in Spain. He played for Asefa Estudiantes. Cedric Simmons posted 5.7 points and 3.9 rebounds per game in ACB. Previously Cedric Simmons had stints in Greece, CBA, NBA and D-League. He participated at Greek A1 League All-Star Game in 2011. Cedric Simmons aldo made it onto Greek A1 League All-Newcomers Team in 2011. The centre has been the member of Bulgarian National Team since 2011. Cedric Simmons is participating at 2013 EuroBasket Qualifying with Bulgaria at the moment. He tallied 12 points and 8 rebounds in their starting win over Sweden.


Tezenis Verona sign Charlie Westbrook - by Eurobasket News

Tezenis Verona strengthened their backcourt. They penned deal with Charlie Westbrook (193-G-89). The guard starts his pro career in Italy. Charlie Westbrook has just graduated from the University of South Dakota. The guard notched 18.7 points, 4.0 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 1.7 steals per game in his senior season. Charlie Westbrook was named into All-Summit League 2nd Team. The guard was also named into All-GWC 1st Team in 2011. Charlie Westbrook participated at Portsmouth Invitational Tournament. He averaged 12.3 points, 3.0 rebounds, 2.7 assists and 2.0 steals per game at the tourney. The guard also appeared in one game at AirTran Orlando Summer League. He posted 3 points and 5 rebounds for the Orlando Magic.


Cimberio Varese lands Akepsemaidis - by Eurobasket Center

Cimberio Varese strengthened their roster with addition of 25-year old Greek guard Lefteris Akepsemaidis (192-G-87). Akepsemaidis played most recently at Marousi BC (Greece). While playing 24 games for Marousi last season he averaged 7.2ppg, 1.3rpg and 2.0apg.

By Eurobasket Data Center


Three new faces at Cimberio Varese pre-season camp - by Eurobasket Center

Cimberio Varese has three new faces at their training camp. The new additions are 25-year old Greek guard Lefteris Akepsemaidis (192-G-87), 25-year old American point guard Aaron Johnson (172-PG-88, agency: Two Points, college: UAB) and 27-year old Lithuanian forward Justas Sinica (203-F-85).
Lefteris Akepsemaidis played most recently at Marousi BC (Greece). While playing 24 games for Marousi last season his stats were: 7.2ppg, 1.3rpg and 2.0apg.
Aaron Johnson supposedly signed at Vanoli Cremona, so that information is not confirmed yet. He played last season at Assi Basket Ostuni in Lega Due (15.0ppg, 2.4rpg, Assists-2 (4.5apg)).
Justas Sinica played last season in ...5 different leagues. He started the season at Rudupis Prienu playing for them in Lithuanian League (7.0ppg, 2.7rpg, 1.7apg), Baltic League (4.3ppg, 1.0rpg, 1.3apg) adn in EuroCup (5.2ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.2apg). In December moved to BK Minsk-2006, where he played in Belarusian League (10.6ppg, 3.6rpg, 2.0apg) and in VTB League (6.4ppg, 2.0rpg, 1.0apg).

By Eurobasket Data Center


Givova Scafati Basket sign Jamel McLean - by Eurobasket Center

Givova Scafati Basket (Lega2) signed 24-year old American forward Jamel McLean (203-F-104kg-88, college: Xavier). McLean played most recently at Stella Artois Leuven Bears (Belgium). While playing 36 games for Leuven last season his stats were: 9.3ppg and 6.8rpg. He helped them to make it to the semifinals. McLean graduated Xavier University in 2011 and it will be his second season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center


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  JAPAN   


U18 Championship: South Korea rally past Japan - by Eurobasket News

South Korea U18 - Japan U18 91:69

South Korea registered the first win at the U18 Asia Championship in Mongolia. They knocked down Japanese counterparts in Group B action. Jonghyun Lee (206-C-94) came up with 19 points to lead the Korean side.
South Korea strongly entered the game. They fired 28 points in the opening quarter to post a 12-point lead. South Korea stayed in charge throughout the second quarter. They established a 47:31 lead at the interval. The margin grew at 20-point mark early in the third term. South Korea dominated every facet of the game and cleared off to a 74:47 distance at the final break. They never looked back again rolling to the victory. Seongmo Choi (187-G-94) netted 16 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Yuta Osaka (179-PG-94) answered with 14 points for Japan. Masahiro Narita (185-SF-94) notched 12 points in the loss.

South Korea U18: Jonghyun Lee 19, Seongmo Choi 16, Sangjae Kang (202-F-94) 12
Japan U18: Yuta Osaka 14, Masahiro Narita 12


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  KAZAKHSTAN   


U18 Championship: Kazakhstan no match for Iran in opener - by Eurobasket News

Iran U18 - Kazakhstan U18 105:46

Iran cruised to the opening win at the U18 Asia Championship. They took on Kazakhstan in Group C and clinched a confident win at the end. Behnam Yakhchali (191-G-95) stepped up with 21 points, 7 steals and 6 boards to pace the winners.
Iran led by just six points after the slow first quarter 17:11. But they shifted the gear in the second frame. Iran went on a massive 32:8 run to take a 30-point lead at halftime. The rest of the game was a one-way traffic. Iran stayed in charge and coasted to the victory. Vahid Dalirzahan (199-SF-95) posted 14 points and 9 rebounds, while Hossein Rahmati (204-C-93) added 12 points in the win. Maxim Marchuk (195-F/G-94) answered with 16 points for Kazakhstan. Nurlybek Nurkhanov (180-PG-94) netted 7 points in the losing effort.

Iran U18: Behnam Yakhchali 21, Vahid Dalirzahan 14, Hossein Rahmati 12
Kazakhstan U18: Maxim Marchuk 16, Nurlybek Nurkhanov 7


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  LATVIA   


U18 European Championship: Lithuania triumph in Baltic battle, reach semis - by Eurobasket News

Lithuania U18 - Latvia U18 65:53

Lithuania earned the place in U18 European Championship semifinals. They came out winners from the Baltic clash in the quarterfinal today. Marius Grigonis (198-F-94) scored 16 points to lead Lithuania past Latvia.
Lithuania and Latvia stayed close throughout the opening quarter. Lithuania snatched a 15:14 lead at the first break. The hosts (teams played in Vilnius) stretched the margin in the second quarter. They ensured a 30:26 halftime lead. Lithuania opened a 7-point lead midway through the third term but Latvia denied it and spurred ahead for a 37:36 lead. Lithuania quickly returned the advantage and entered the fourth frame up by 4 points 47:43. Rokas Gustys (204-C-94) and Lekavicius extended the lead to 10 points 59:49 with under two minutes to go. Latvia could not recover and had to surrender at the end. Denis Krestinin (202-PF-94) accounted for 9 points for Lithuania. Rokas Gustys added 8 points in the victory. Davis Geks (183-G/F-95) answered with 12 points for Latvia. Armands Ginters (193-F-95) netted 10 points in defeat.

Lithuania U18: Marius Grigonis 16, Denis Krestinin 9, Rokas Gustys 8
Latvia U18: Davis Geks 12, Armands Ginters 10


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  LEBANON   


U18 Championship: Lebanon reached the second straight win - by Eurobasket News

Hong Kong U18-Lebanon U18 70:113

Lebanon outscored Hong Kong in the start of Day 2 at the 22nd FIBA Asia U18 Championship. Lebanon reached the second straight win after 113:70 over the opponents.
Lebanon grabbed 16:12 after the first five minutes of the game and increased to 25:18. They led 39:26 midway through the second frame and grabbed 59:29 halftime advantage. The board showed 78:47 after 5 minutes in the third period and then Lebanon finished the third period at 90:52. They reached three digit number with 5 minutes to go and closed the game with 113:70 on the board.
Wael Arakji (192-G-94) top-scored for the winners with 21 points and Jimmy Salem (190-G-95) nailed 17. Ali Mezher (182-PG-94) delivered 15, while Georges Choueiry (184-G-95) added 13. CHANG Yiu fai and Ng Chun Yan (196-C-12) replied with 14 points each as the latter also grabbed 11 rebounds. Tsai Choi Kwan (186-SF-95) posted 11 and Ho Chun Kit (191-C-95) notched 11.

Hong Kong U18: Chang Yiu-Fai (168-PG-94) 14, Ng Chun Yan 14+11 rebs, Tsai Choi Kwan 11, Ho Chun Kit 11
Lebanon U18: Wael Arakji 21, Jimmy Salem 17, Ali Mezher 15, Georges Choueiry 13


A good start for Lebanon in the FIBA ASIA Under 18 Championship - by Asia-Basket Lebanon

Lebanon had a winning start in the Under 18 FIBA ASIA Championship , the win came against India on the score of 65-61.Lebanon who was drawn in Group A together with China, India and Hong Kong will have to finish first between the first three teams of group A to qualify to the second round . Lebanons next game will be against Hong Kong.
The game against India was very tense , the first game of the tournament is always full of such feelings , the Lebanese team committed 22 turnovers , Lebanon had a good start in the first quarter and led 14-04 but the Indians came back with a huge run and close the gap to take the lead 14-16 , the first quarter finished on the score of 16-16. In the second quarter the same scenario continued a run by Lebanon the first minutes of the quarter having 7 points lead with 5 minutes before half time when India once again started another comeback which gave them the Lead at the half this time on the score of 30-34.
In the 3rd Quarter the game turned more tense and both teams were trying to impose a kind of supremacy but no team managed to and the quarter finished with a 4 points lead to Lebanon , 51-41.
The last quarter the same rhythm continued , India tried many times to come back in the game but Lebanon players were answering to keep the Lead for the Cedars teams and finish the game with a first win on the score of 65-61.
Lebanon was led by Wael Arakji with 25 points and Jimmy Salem with 18 points.


Perisic out of Anibal : The Worst Adminstration for Coaches ,Players, Agents - by Asia-Basket Lebanon

After a huge success leading Anibal to the Final of the Lebanese League and winning the Lebanese Cup coach Miodrag Perisic left the club with no notice and signed with Zamalek EgypT. This strange move made all the critics search for the real reason of Pericsic departure, this departure is due to the unprofessionalism of the Clubs administration, many players and agents still waiting to get paid and the clubs answer is no money still, the club owes big amounts to players , coaches, agents , the club didnt make any move that will help the team to play again major roles in next season this is due that all the coaches and players agents are not willing o deal with this club ,on the other side they lost the most important element in the team Rodrigue Akl, The word is that the agents didnt get paid for the past two years.

Coach Perisic was in negotiations with the club and waiting to hear from them to decide to renew his contract but nothing came from the club and he had to leave to Egypt and this was due that the club was busy with internal elections and no one was available to talk to the coach.

Last year Anibal brought back the intensity and the excitement to the League for this reason the club should set a new strategy on how to continue on the road of success starting by paying all the amounts owed to the agents, players, coaches.


U18 Championship: Lebanon hold off India - by Eurobasket News

Lebanon U18 - India U18 65:61

Lebanon secured the opening win at the U18 Asia Championship in Ulaanbaatar. They sneaked past pesky India in Group A opener. Wael Arakji (192-G-94) scored 25 points to lead the winners.
Lebanon jumped to an 8:2 lead but India quickly rebounded. They narrowed the gap and eventually tied things up at 16 after ten minutes. The lead changed hands throughout intense second quarter. India pulled ahead late in the period and secured a 34:30 halftime lead. Lebanon managed to return in front in the third quarter. They eked out a 51:47 lead heading into the fourth frame. Lebanon kept India at distance throughout the final term. They managed to ensure a narrow but important victory at the end. Jimmy Salem (190-G-95) accounted for 18 points, while Karim Tabaja (198-F/C-94) added 6 points for Lebanon. Palpreet Singh Brar (204-C-94) answered with game-high 28 points for India. Amit Kanarjee (187-PG-94) finished with 13 points in the loss.

Lebanon U18: Wael Arakji 25, Jimmy Salem 18, Karim Tabaja 6
India U18: Palpreet Singh Brar 28, Amit Kanarjee 13


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  LITHUANIA   


U18 European Championship: Lithuania triumph in Baltic battle, reach semis - by Eurobasket News

Lithuania U18 - Latvia U18 65:53

Lithuania earned the place in U18 European Championship semifinals. They came out winners from the Baltic clash in the quarterfinal today. Marius Grigonis (198-F-94) scored 16 points to lead Lithuania past Latvia.
Lithuania and Latvia stayed close throughout the opening quarter. Lithuania snatched a 15:14 lead at the first break. The hosts (teams played in Vilnius) stretched the margin in the second quarter. They ensured a 30:26 halftime lead. Lithuania opened a 7-point lead midway through the third term but Latvia denied it and spurred ahead for a 37:36 lead. Lithuania quickly returned the advantage and entered the fourth frame up by 4 points 47:43. Rokas Gustys (204-C-94) and Lekavicius extended the lead to 10 points 59:49 with under two minutes to go. Latvia could not recover and had to surrender at the end. Denis Krestinin (202-PF-94) accounted for 9 points for Lithuania. Rokas Gustys added 8 points in the victory. Davis Geks (183-G/F-95) answered with 12 points for Latvia. Armands Ginters (193-F-95) netted 10 points in defeat.

Lithuania U18: Marius Grigonis 16, Denis Krestinin 9, Rokas Gustys 8
Latvia U18: Davis Geks 12, Armands Ginters 10


Pieno Zvaigzdes bring in Yancy Gates - by Eurobasket News

Pieno Zvaigzdes bolstered their roster. They agreed on terms of contract with Yancy Gates (205-F-89). The forward will start his pro career in Lithuania. Yancy Gates has just graduated from the University of Cincinnati. He notched 12.2 points and 8.9 rebounds per game in his senior season. The forward was named into Big East All-Tournament Team. He made it into NCAA Sweet 16 with Cincinnati. Yancy Gates participated at the Portsmouth Invitational Tournament. He tallied 7.5 points, 8.0 boards and 2.3 assists per game there. Later Yancy Gates took part at AirTran Orlando Summer League. The forward played for the Detroit Pistons averaging 4.3 points and 4.3 boards. Yancy Gates then played at NBA Pro Summer League in Las Vegas. His stats read 3.8 points and 2.8 rebounds per appearance for the Sacramento Kings.


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  MONGOLIA   


U18 Championship: Bahrain roll past Mongolia - by Eurobasket News

Bahrain U18 - Mongolia U18 95:74

Bahrain registered the first win at the U18 Asia Championship in Ulaanbaatar. They overcame hosting Mongolia in Group C. Mahamed Naser (191-F-97) came up with 24 points and 9 rebounds for the winners.
The hosts started the game aggressively. Mongolia dominated in the opening quarter posting a 20:10 lead after ten minutes. Bahrain managed to narrow the gap in the second quarter. The visitors got within a single point at the interval 37:38. Bahrain pulled ahead in the third quarter. They fired 30 points to take a 67:54 lead at the final intermission. Mongolia ran out of steam in the fourth term and could not challenge the deficit in the final minutes. Ali Melad (171-F-94) finished with 18 points, while Jasim Abul (167-PG-94) and Mohammed Buallay (185-F-95) accounted for 10 points each for the winners. Likhamjav answered with 21 points for Mongolia. Chinzorig netted 18 points and collected 9 rebounds in defeat.

Bahrain U18: Mahamed Naser 24, Ali Melad 18, Jasim Abul 10, Mohammed Buallay 10
Mongolia U18: Likhamjav 21, Chinzorig 18


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  MONTENEGRO   


Filip Barovic inks for Sporon - by Dragan Scepanovic

The management of Basketball Club Sopron published , that the member of the Montenegro National Team Filip Barovic (208-F/C-90) agreed with the club. The 22 years old, 208 cm tall big man was under contract with Adriatic League team Buducnost Podgorica the last 3 years but was loaned during the last season to KK Mornar Basket Bar. In 29 games of the Montenegrin League he averaged 10.8ppg, 5.2rpg, FGP: 65.7%, in 12 games of the Balkan League he added 9.8ppg, 6.3rpg, 1.1spg.


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  NAIA   


Jezioro Tarnobrzeg brings in Maurice Pearson for tryout - by Eurobasket News

Jezioro Tarnobrzeg announced arrival of Maurice Pearson (205-F/C) for tryout. The player will try to get his first professional deal. Pearson graduated at Georgetown College few months ago. They reached NAIA D1 Elite Eight last season. Pearson appeared 31 times for the school averaging 15.2 points and 8.5 rebounds. He was named to All-NAIA D1 3rd Team -12. A year ago, Maurice Pearson helped Georgetown College to reach NAIA D1 Final Four. It was his junior season and the player collected 11 ppg and 6.6 rpg. Pearson spent all four years with Georgetown College and he was constantly improving. The big guy started with 4 ppg and 3.1 rpg as a freshman and increased his numbers for 6.2 ppg and 4.6 as sophomore. Jezioro Tarnobrzeg competes in Polish top division for men (PLK).


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  NBA   


2012 NBA preseason tips off Friday, Oct. 5, in Istanbul - by Diamadis Farmakis

The NBA today released its 2012 preseason schedule, a 115-game slate, which tips off Friday, Oct. 5, in Istanbul when the Boston Celtics take on Turkish basketball power Fenerbahce Ulker at Ulker Sports Arena, and concludes Friday, Oct. 26. NBA TV will televise the game in Istanbul.

Including the Istanbul game between the Celtics and Fenerbahce Ulker, the 2012 schedule features nine games played internationally, as NBA Europe Live 2012 presented by BBVA features single games each in Barcelon a, Berlin, Istanbul, and Milan as part of this year's tour

Following the game in Istanbul, the Celtics, led by veteran stars Kevin Garnett (6'11''-F-76), Paul Pierce and Rajon Rondo, move on to Milan to play EA7 Emporio Armani Milano at Mediolanum Forum on Oct. 7. Native son Dirk Nowitzki leads the Dallas Mavericks to Berlin where they will play Alba Berlin at O2 World on Oct. 6. Dallas wraps up NBA Europe Live 2012 presented by BBVA in Spain against FC Barcelona Regal in a game played at Palau Sant Jordi on Oct. 9. All four of the NBA's preseason contests in Europe will be telecast on NBA TV and the network will add further games to its preseason viewing schedule in the coming weeks.

Preseason basketball returns to Mexico when rookie coach Jacque Vaughn leads the Orlando Magic against the New Orleans Hornets and Anthony Davis, the overall No. 1 pick in the 2012 NBA Draft, in Mexico City at Mexico City Arena on Oct. 7. This marks the NBA's 20th game in Mexico overall, the most NBA games held in any country outside the United States and Canada. NBA TV will provide coverage of NBA Mexico Game.

The defending champion Miami Heat, featuring Kia NBA MVP LeBron James, and the Los Angeles Clippers, headlined by All-Stars Blake Griffin and Chris Paul, play a pair of contests as part of NBA China Games. The teams will tip off on Oct. 11, as the Heat and Clippers play in Beijing at MasterCard Center. On Oct. 14, Miami and Los Angeles will battle at Mercedes-Benz Arena, Shanghai. NBA TV will carry both NBA China Games contests.

The NBA Canada Series features a two-game slate. Carmelo Anthony and the New York Knicks travel to Montreal to battle Andrea Bargnani and the Toronto Raptors on Oct. 19 at the Bell Centre, while Kevin Love and the Minnesota Timberwolves head to Winnipeg to face Greg Monroe and the Detroit Pistons on Oct. 24 at the MTS Centre.

TNT and ESPN will each televise two games during October. TNT begins its NBA coverage on Thursday, Oct. 18, when the Celtics visit Deron Williams and the Brooklyn Nets at the Barclays Center at 8 p.m. ET. The network will also feature a Western Conference showdown on Thursday Oct. 25, when the Clippers travel to the Pepsi Center to face Ty Lawson and the Denver Nuggets at 10 p.m. ET.

ESPN will televise a doubleheader on Oct. 26 beginning with the Heat hosting the Hornets at 8 p.m. ET. The nightcap will showcase the Nuggets visiting Marcin Gortat and the Phoenix Suns at 10:30 p.m. ET.

The league's 67th season begins Tuesday, Oct. 30, as part of Kia NBA Tip-Off '12, with a TNT doubleheader. In the first game (8 p.m. ET), the Heat opens up defense of its NBA title by hosting a Celtics team that took Miami to seven games in the 2012 Eastern Conference Finals. Before the game, TNT will televise the championship ring ceremony. The second game features two Western Conference powers as the Mavericks visit the Lakers (10:30 p.m. ET).


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  NCAA3   


Kusnacht-Erlenbach inks deal with rookie Joe Meehan - by Eurobasket News

Joe Meehan (182-G) will start his professional basketball career overseas. The American guard signed a 1-year deal with Kusnacht-Erlenbach (Switzerland). Meehan is a product of Lebanon Valley (NCAA3), where he graduated few months ago. He was named NABC Division III All-Middle Atlantic Region Player of the Year -12. Meehan was also awarded with NABC Division III All-Middle Atlantic Region 2nd Team -12.


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  PHILIPPINES   


U18 Championship: Philippines drub Saudi Arabia in opener - by Eurobasket News

Philippines U18 - Saudi Arabia U18 95:52

Philippines got to the winning start of their U18 Asia Championship campaign. They defeated Saudi Arabia behind 15 points from Janus Suarez.
Saudi Arabia led during the opening five minutes of the game but Philippines quickly gained control. They went on a 17:2 run to take a 23:12 lead at the first break. The margin grew at 20-point mark at halftime 49:29. Philippines maintained the pressure in the third quarter. They opened a 31-point lead at the final intermission. Philippines did not slow down in the fourth quarter and cruised to the victory at the end. Rodolfo Alejandro (175-G-95) netted 14 points, while Mario Bonleon added 13 points and 7 rebounds in the victory. Waheed Faqihi answered with 19 points for Saudi Arabia. Nassir Abo Jalas (192-F-94) had 11 points in defeat.

Philippines U18: Janus Suarez 15, Rodolfo Alejandro 14, Mario Bonleon 13
Saudi Arabia U18: Waheed Faqihi 19, Nassir Abo Jalas 11


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  POLAND   


AZS Koszalin adds rebounding ace Darrell Harris - by Eurobasket News

AZS Koszalin added another American to its roster for the upcoming season. Their new member is PF/C Darrell Harris (208-F/C-84, college: Rhode Island). The American is well known in PLK as he spent last three seasons with Kotwica Kolobrzeg. In the latest one he appeared 38 times in the league collecting 12.4 points, 11.6 rebounds and 1.6 blocks. Harris was top rebounder and second shot blocker of the competition. He participated at the All-Star Game and was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Polish League Honorable Mention. The same award Darrell Harris also got in 2011 and he was top PLK rebounder in all 3 years with Kotwica. Before Kotwica, Harris spent split one season between Spanish Canarias and Uruguayan Malvin. He also has experience from German Schalke and Portuguese Barreirense. The player graduated at Rhode Island University in 2007.


Canadian Ryan Wright joins Anwil Wloclawek - by Eurobasket News

Anwil Wloclawek reinforced its roster under the basket. The team penned a deal with Canadian center Wright Ryan (206-C/F-87, college: Oklahoma). It will be his first season in Poland. Wright finished the last one with Taiwanese team Taiwan Mobile Leopards. He shined there with 19.3 ppg and 12.9 rpg for 22 games and was named to Asia-basket.com All-Taiwanese SBL 1st Team -12. He participated at SBL All-Star Game and was Slam Dun Contest winner. Wright Ryan started last season with Ukrainian Cherkasy Monkeys and in November moved to Mexican Soles de Mexicali. In the past, Wright played for the Chinese NBL team Jin Qiang Sichuan and Venezuelan Trotamundos de Carabobo. He also has experience from Turkish TB2L, where he had 16.8 ppg and 9.3 rpg in 24 games with Ormanspor Genc Ankara (2010/11). Wright Ryan graduated at the University of Oklahoma two years ago.


Jezioro Tarnobrzeg brings in Maurice Pearson for tryout - by Eurobasket News

Jezioro Tarnobrzeg announced arrival of Maurice Pearson (205-F/C) for tryout. The player will try to get his first professional deal. Pearson graduated at Georgetown College few months ago. They reached NAIA D1 Elite Eight last season. Pearson appeared 31 times for the school averaging 15.2 points and 8.5 rebounds. He was named to All-NAIA D1 3rd Team -12. A year ago, Maurice Pearson helped Georgetown College to reach NAIA D1 Final Four. It was his junior season and the player collected 11 ppg and 6.6 rpg. Pearson spent all four years with Georgetown College and he was constantly improving. The big guy started with 4 ppg and 3.1 rpg as a freshman and increased his numbers for 6.2 ppg and 4.6 as sophomore. Jezioro Tarnobrzeg competes in Polish top division for men (PLK).


Pluta back in Anwil - by Eurobasket

Probably the most famous player in history of Anwil - Andrzej Pluta (182-G-74) will join back the team from Wloclawek. Former Polish international will join team as a coach assistant. Andrzej Pluta retired from pro basketball two years ago. He played for Polish national Team for 11 consecutive years (1996-2007). Pluta was selected to play in Polish League All-Star Game between 1996 and 2011. He received also an award Eurobasket.com All-Polish League Guard of the Year in 2003.


U18 European Championship: Germany beat Poland in Vilnius - by Eurobasket News

Germany U18 - Poland U18 74:52

Germany stays in the fight to remain in U18 European Championship in Division A. They defeated Poland today to improve at 3-1 record in relegation round Group G. Poland slipped at 0-4 record and lost the chance to stay in top division for next year. David Taylor (188-PG-95) scored 14 points to lead the winners.
Germany eked out a 22:15 lead after ten minutes. Poland lived up to the challenge and turned the tables in the second quarter. They went on a run to take a 35:34 halftime lead. Germany stiffened defensively in the third quarter. They held Poland to just 5 points in the period and grabbed a 50:40 lead into the fourth frame. Germany scored 24 points in the final frame and sealed a comfortable win at the end. Malik Mueller (188-G-94) accounted for 11 points, while Dominic Lockhart (197-F-94) and Johannes Thiemann (203-F-94) added 10 points each in the victory. Damian Jeszke (202-PF-95) answered with 13 points for Poland. Mikolaj Witlinski (207-F/C-95) had 9 points in the loss.

Germany U18: David Taylor 14, Malik Mueller 11, Dominic Lockhart 10, Johannes Thiemann 10
Poland U18: Damian Jeszke 13, Mikolaj Witlinski 9


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  PUERTO RICO   


Caneros sign Pellot: - by Luis Modestti

Caneros de La Romana announced the signing of guard Jesse Pellot-Rosa (193-G-84, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: VCU) and is expected to make his debut tonight against Indios.

Pellot has experience in the Dominican Republic where he played for Titanes and Leones. In 2012 he played with Quimsa in Argentina and Atleticos in the Puerto Rican League.

In other news regarding Puerto Ricans in the Dominican League Metros de Santiago released David Huertas (195-G-87, college: Mississippi). The Puerto Rican National Team guard averaged 8.5 points per game.


Galindo returns to Uruguay with Malvin: - by Luis Modestti

Puerto Rican national team forward Alexander Galindo (200-F-85, college: FIU) signed with Malvin in the Uruguayan League.

Galindo returns to Uruguay after he averaged 28.7 points and 10.3 rebounds with Cader in 2009.

The 27 year old forward also has experience in Argentina where he played for Libertad and then Ciclista Olimpico. This year he played for Brujos de Guayama in BSN with averages of 15.2 points and 5.1 rebounds.


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  RUSSIA   


U18 European Championship: Russia shock Spain, enter semis - by Eurobasket News

Russia U18 - Spain U18 58:56

Russia came up with a huge upset in the first quarterfinal of the day at U18 European Championship. They overcame the defending champions Spain to reach the semis. Russia just made it into the quarterfinals but taught the Spaniards a good lesson claiming the spot in the next round.
The teams stayed close throughout the opening quarter. The scoreboard read 15:15 after ten minutes. Russia pulled ahead in the second frame. They limited Spain to just 8 points in the period to ensure a 6-point halftime lead 29:23. Spain tried to bounce back in the third quarter. They opened it with 9 points in a row to surge ahead. But Russia returned advantage and eked out a 42:40 lead before the final frame. Kulagin and Rostislav Karenin (201-F/C-94) opened the final period with 8 consecutive points as Russia accumulated a 50:40 lead. Spain denied the deficit as Guillermo Hernangomez (209-C-94) tied things up at 56 with 46 seconds remaining. Igor Kanygin (207-F/C-94) dunked for Russian lead and then Spain could not score in the final 35 seconds as Russia got away with victory. Rostislav Karenin and Igor Kanygin provided 10 points each for Russia. Alexander Gankevich (197-PF-95) and Serdar Annaev (185-PG-94) added 8 points each for the winners. Alberto Diaz (190-PG-94) and Guillermo Hernangomez answered with 18 points each for Spain.

Russia U18: Rostislav Karenin 10, Igor Kanygin 10, Alexander Gankevich 8, Serdar Annaev 8
Spain U18: Alberto Diaz 18, Guillermo Hernangomez 18


Vlado Ilievski leaves Kuban - by Eurobasket News

Vlado Ilievski (187-PG-80, agency: Beo Basket) leaves Kuban before the start of the new season. Earlier however the team secured the services of Vlado Ilievski for the next season but due to the personal reasons, the player will not continue with the team. Ilievski moved to Kuban in the middle of the season 2011-12.

The Macedonian player joined Lokomotiv Kuban in February. He averaged 6.6 points, 2.4 assists and 1.1 boards per game in PBL. In VTB League Vlado Ilievski notched 6.4 points, 2.1 assists and 1.1 steals per appearance. In EuroCup the guard posted 4.4 points, 2.2 assists and 1.2 rebounds. Previously Vlado Ilievski had stints in Slovenia, Spain, Italy and Serbia. Eurobasket.com named the guard All-Slovenian League Player of the Year in 2010. Vlado Ilievski has been the member of FYR Macedonian National Team since 1998. He participated at 2011 EuroBasket in Lithuania.


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  SAUDI ARABIA   


U18 Championship: Philippines drub Saudi Arabia in opener - by Eurobasket News

Philippines U18 - Saudi Arabia U18 95:52

Philippines got to the winning start of their U18 Asia Championship campaign. They defeated Saudi Arabia behind 15 points from Janus Suarez.
Saudi Arabia led during the opening five minutes of the game but Philippines quickly gained control. They went on a 17:2 run to take a 23:12 lead at the first break. The margin grew at 20-point mark at halftime 49:29. Philippines maintained the pressure in the third quarter. They opened a 31-point lead at the final intermission. Philippines did not slow down in the fourth quarter and cruised to the victory at the end. Rodolfo Alejandro (175-G-95) netted 14 points, while Mario Bonleon added 13 points and 7 rebounds in the victory. Waheed Faqihi answered with 19 points for Saudi Arabia. Nassir Abo Jalas (192-F-94) had 11 points in defeat.

Philippines U18: Janus Suarez 15, Rodolfo Alejandro 14, Mario Bonleon 13
Saudi Arabia U18: Waheed Faqihi 19, Nassir Abo Jalas 11


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  SERBIA   


U18 European Championship: Serbia reach Semifinals in Vilnius - by Eurobasket News

Bulgaria U18-Serbia U18 79:88

Serbia reach Semifinals in Vilnius as they won the Quarterfinal clash over Bulgaria. The Serbian side won 88:79 at the U18 European Championship in Division A.
Serbia took 20:15 at the end of the first period but led only 1 point at the halftime. Bulgaria answered with 24-20 in the second frame as the board showed 40:39 after Denislav Vutev (206-C-94) and Cvorovic baskets. Serbia later erupted with a 9-0 run to take 50:41 lead and Andric scored for 61:53. Nikola Radicevic (194-G-94) made two free throws to close the third period at 66:60. No matter how hard Bulgaria tried to recover they could not beat Serbia. Nikola Radicevic brought the final 10 points for the winners for the final result.
Stefan Pot (195-G-94) stepped up with 24 points to lead Serbia to the semis. Nikola Radicevic collected 21 points and 11 assists, while Nikola Jankovic (205-PF-94) added 13. Aleksandar Vezenkov (205-SF-95) produced 16 points in the losing effort and Denislav Vutev scored 15. Kris Minkov (198-SF-94) notched 14, whilst Deyan Karamfilov (180-PG-94) had 8.

Bulgaria U18: Aleksandar Vezenkov 16, Denislav Vutev 15, Kris Minkov 14, Deyan Karamfilov 8
Serbia U18: Stefan Pot 24, Nikola Radicevic 21+11 ast, Nikola Jankovic 13


Drew Gordon set to sign with Partizan - by Ivan Milenkovic

American power forward Drew Gordon (205-F-90) will be new player of Partizan! He was not drafted in 2012 NBA Draft, played for Dallas in Summer League, but Mavericks didn't offer him a contract. Partizan did and Drew will spend next season in Serbia. Former UCLA and University of New Mexico player had good numbers in his final college year - 13.7 points (FG 54.2% and FT 74.6%) and 11.1 rebounds. He is type of player Dusko Vujosevic likes to have in his teams and it is not surprising Partizan decided to sign him knowing they don't have money for stars and well known players with European experience.


Vladimir Lucic is out of the NT, Danilo Anjusic returns - by Eurobasket News

Vladimir Lucic (202-SF-89, agency: Beo Basket) will miss rest of 2013 EuroBasket Qualifications due to injury (quadriceps femoris). Head Coach of the Serbian NT Dusan Ivkovic (agency: Beo Basket) immediately returned Danilo Andjusic (195-G-91, agency: Beo Basket). Also, team captain Nenad Krstic (213-C-83) recovered from injury and he will be ready to play in the next game against Montenegro. Zoran Erceg, who didn't play in Game One against Iceland, also could be in the roster.
Vladimir Lucic had 16 points and 7 rebounds against Iceland. Serbia grabbed 91-78 road victory on Tuesday.
Danilo Andjusic, together with Mile Ilic, was the last cut before the qualifications. However, he is back to the team now. Earlier this summer Andjusic joined senior NT for the first time in his career. So far he played for Serbian youth National Teams. Last summer Andjusic was named to Eurobasket.com All-European Championships U20 2nd Team. In 2009, he led U18 Serbia to gold medal at U18 EuroBasket in Metz. At this event Andjusic was named to Eurobasket.com All-European Championships U18 2nd Team.


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  SINGAPORE   


U18 Championship: Syria won the opener over Singapore - by Eurobasket News

Singapore U18-Syria U18 47:78

Syria won the opener of the 22nd FIBA Asia U18 Championship. Syria grabbed a 78:47 win in the first game of the tournament. Singapore, who made a comeback into the competition after a six-year gap began and well and the SEABA team kept pace with their much taller rivals for the entire first half.
Syria took 14:13 lead in the opening period but pushed the tempo for good later in the game. They added 19-16 in the second frame and enjoyed 33:29 lead at the halftime. The third quarter was decisive in the game as Syria erupted with 26-11 in it. Moreover thy closed the game with 19-7 in the last stanza for the final result.
Mohamad Atle (199-C-95) top-scored for the winners with 14 points and 13 rebounds, while Mahmmoud Trub (195-F-94) added 11. Ockba Baghajati (182-G-94) and Mourad Hashim (176-G-95) delivered 10 points each. Ding Loon TAY posted 14 points in the losing effort. Jun Wei TAN and Weng Hon Low Remus (183-F-94) followed him with 8 each.

Singapore U18: Ding Loon TAY 14, Jun Wei TAN 8, Low Remus 8
Syria U18: Mohamad Atle 14+13 rebs, Mahmmoud Trub 11, Ockba Baghajati 10 Mourad Hashim 10


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  SLOVENIA   


U18 European Championship: Slovenia beat Greece - by Eurobasket News

Slovenia U18 - Greece U18 78:73

Slovenia prevailed against Greece in the classification round of U18 European Championship. Slovenia will now take on the winners of Turkey vs. Ukraine clash for the 9th place tomorrow.
Slovenia eked out a 19:17 lead ten minutes into the game. Greece got within a single point at halftime 39:40. But Slovenia managed to deepen the margin in the third quarter. They extended the lead to as many as 10 points at the final break. The Hellenes got within two points 71:73 with just over three minutes to go. However Matic Rebec (180-PG-95) knocked down five free throws in the dying minutes to seal the victory for Slovenia. Tomaz Bolcina (206-F/C-94) and Andraz Rogelija (187-PG-95) finished with 13 points for the winners. Matic Rebec topscored with 20 points in the victory. Diamantis Slaftsakis (200-SF-94) answered with 20 points for Greece. Dimitrios Agravanis (208-F-94, agency: FCM) netted 15 points in the loss.

Slovenia U18: Matic Rebec 20, Tomaz Bolcina 13, Andraz Rogelija 13
Greece U18: Diamantis Slaftsakis 20, Dimitrios Agravanis 15


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  SOUTH KOREA   


U18 Championship: South Korea rally past Japan - by Eurobasket News

South Korea U18 - Japan U18 91:69

South Korea registered the first win at the U18 Asia Championship in Mongolia. They knocked down Japanese counterparts in Group B action. Jonghyun Lee (206-C-94) came up with 19 points to lead the Korean side.
South Korea strongly entered the game. They fired 28 points in the opening quarter to post a 12-point lead. South Korea stayed in charge throughout the second quarter. They established a 47:31 lead at the interval. The margin grew at 20-point mark early in the third term. South Korea dominated every facet of the game and cleared off to a 74:47 distance at the final break. They never looked back again rolling to the victory. Seongmo Choi (187-G-94) netted 16 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Yuta Osaka (179-PG-94) answered with 14 points for Japan. Masahiro Narita (185-SF-94) notched 12 points in the loss.

South Korea U18: Jonghyun Lee 19, Seongmo Choi 16, Sangjae Kang (202-F-94) 12
Japan U18: Yuta Osaka 14, Masahiro Narita 12


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  SPAIN   


Lleida confirm Jose Simeon - by Eurobasket News

Lleida have finalized the new deal with Jose Simeon (187-PG-91). The guard will enter his second straight season with the team. Jose Simeon arrived to Lleida from Valencia. There the guard notched 1.3 points and 1.0 board per Euroleague game. In ACB Jose Simeon notched 1.6 points per appearance. He was the member of U16, U18 and U20 Spanish National Teams. Eurobasket.com named Jose Simeon All-Spanish ACB Newcomer of the Year in 2010.


Sean Ogirri extends with Breogan - by Natxo Mendaza

C.B. Breogan officially announced the agreement with Dominican guard Sean Ogirri (188-G-86, college: Wyoming) to extend his contract for the next season (2012-13). Ogirri joined Breogan in 2011, after winning the league title ith Porto Ferpinta the season before. Previously, Ogirri had his first contact with LEB Gold in Ourense, after graduating in Wyoming. Ogirri became the second best scorer of Breogan last season, averaging 11.8ppg in regular season and 13.8ppg in playoffs.


Ander Arruti and Aurteneche Maquinario agree terms - by Natxo Mendaza

Ander Arruti (189-G-90) will stay in Vitoria next season. The Spanish guard reached an agreement with Aurteneche Maquinaria to extend their relationship one more year, the club officially announced today. Arruti becomes the fourth player confirmed after the signings of Martin Buesa, Martinez de Aguirre and the renewal of Arcelus. Ander Arruti, one of the key players of the team last year, averaged 10ppg and almost 4rpg, playing both shooting guard and point guard.


U18 European Championship: Russia shock Spain, enter semis - by Eurobasket News

Russia U18 - Spain U18 58:56

Russia came up with a huge upset in the first quarterfinal of the day at U18 European Championship. They overcame the defending champions Spain to reach the semis. Russia just made it into the quarterfinals but taught the Spaniards a good lesson claiming the spot in the next round.
The teams stayed close throughout the opening quarter. The scoreboard read 15:15 after ten minutes. Russia pulled ahead in the second frame. They limited Spain to just 8 points in the period to ensure a 6-point halftime lead 29:23. Spain tried to bounce back in the third quarter. They opened it with 9 points in a row to surge ahead. But Russia returned advantage and eked out a 42:40 lead before the final frame. Kulagin and Rostislav Karenin (201-F/C-94) opened the final period with 8 consecutive points as Russia accumulated a 50:40 lead. Spain denied the deficit as Guillermo Hernangomez (209-C-94) tied things up at 56 with 46 seconds remaining. Igor Kanygin (207-F/C-94) dunked for Russian lead and then Spain could not score in the final 35 seconds as Russia got away with victory. Rostislav Karenin and Igor Kanygin provided 10 points each for Russia. Alexander Gankevich (197-PF-95) and Serdar Annaev (185-PG-94) added 8 points each for the winners. Alberto Diaz (190-PG-94) and Guillermo Hernangomez answered with 18 points each for Spain.

Russia U18: Rostislav Karenin 10, Igor Kanygin 10, Alexander Gankevich 8, Serdar Annaev 8
Spain U18: Alberto Diaz 18, Guillermo Hernangomez 18


D'Or Fischer for Trinidad national team, will he end-up in Barcelona ? - by Eurobasket

According to some rumours U.S. pro player D'or Fischer (211-C-81, college: W.Virginia) is about to receive Trinidad/Tobago passport, which will allow him to join Trinidad national team. 6-11 center could be for sure the best player in the national team. Spanish Regal Barcelona is also interested in the player. Getting Trinidad/Tobago passport gives him a status of Cotonou player and in consequence it does not block a limit of import players signed by a team. If he signs in Spain, it would be his third season in a row in ACB. He has 7-years after-college career playing pro basketball in top European leagues. The last 4 years he played in Euroleague representing such well-known teams like Maccabi Tel Aviv (Israel) and Real Madrid (Spain). He used to play also in Belgium, Germany and Poland. Fischer is probably one of best U.S. players, who did not make it to the NBA. Although he played for Roanoke Dazzle in NBA D-League, and few times in NBA sumemr leagues. However he decided to be top player in Euroleague teams instead of trying on the bench with NBA teams. The last season Fischer spent at Gescrap Bizkaia Bilbao, where he was best blocker (1.9bpg) in Spanish league averaging also 8.5ppg and 5.5rpg. He played also 19 Euroleague games with stats: 7.9ppg, 5.9rpg, 1.6apg, 1.1bpg.


CAI Zaragoza sends Gregg Thondique on loan to Belgian Antwerp - by Eurobasket News

Gregg Thondique (201-F-87, agency: FCM, college: Virginia Union) will play next season in Belgium. The American forward is sent on loan to Antwerp. He signed a 3-year deal with CAI Zaragoza earlier this summer. Thondique spent last season with Israeli team Hapoel Afula. He played 28 games in the National league averaging 19.9 points 13.2 rebounds and 2.9 assists. The forward was second rebounder of the competition and was named to Eurobasket.com All-Israeli National League 2nd Team -12. Before Hapoel Afula, Gregg Thondique played two years for Slovenian squad Hopsi Polzela. In 2010/11 season the player impressed with 16.3 ppg, 10.5 rpg, 2.3 spg and 1.2 bpg for 19 appearances. He was top rebounder of the league, fifth scorer, No.1 in steals and No.2 in shot blocking. Thondique is a product of Virginia Union University (NCAA2), where he graduated three years ago.


Regal Barcelona signs 4-year contract extension with Victor Sada (2+2) - by Eurobasket News

It's official. Regal Barcelona announced signing of Victor Sada (192-G-84) to 4-year deal (2+2). It means that Sada will stay with the club at least until the end of 2013/14 season. The Spanish guard had 3.1 ppg and 2.4 rpg for 21 Euroleague games last season. He also added 3 ppg, 3 rpg and 2.1 apg in 45 Liga Endesa games. In 2010/11 season Sada had pretty close numbers. He is a product of Barca, where he played until 2006. That year the player moved to Girona, where he stayed until 2008. Than Sada returned to Barca and it seems he will finish his basketball career there. They won four championship titles together and two Cup trophies. Barca also was Euroleague champion in 2010. Victor Sada just returned to the country from London, where he won the Silver with Spanish National Team. He had 2.6 ppg, 1.2 rpg and 1 apg for 5 games at the Olympics.


Albert Ventura inks first pro deal with FIATC Joventut - by Eurobasket News

FIATC Joventut made a move for the future. The team penned long-term contract with Albert Ventura (196-F/G-92). This is the first professional deal for the player. Ventura is a product of Joventut, where he started as teenager. Last season he got a chance in four Liga Endesa games averaging 1.5 points. The young guard spent most of the year with CB Prat Joventut in LEB Silver. There he shined with 11.9 ppg, 3.4 rpg and 1.9 apg for 31 games. He helped them reach Playoff Semifinals. Ventura played for Prat also in 2010/11. Albert Ventura played for the Spanish U18 National Team two years ago. He had 6.1 ppg and 3 rpg for 8 games at U18 EuroBasket in Vilnius. In the past, he was a member of U16 Spain.


CAI Zaragoza lands Damjan Rudez - by Eurobasket News

Damjan Rudez (208-F-86) will continue his career in Spain. The Croatian National Team forward penned a deal with CAI Zaragoza. Rudez spent last season with Cibona Zagreb winning the championship title in Croatia. He had 12.1 ppg, 2.3 rpg and 1.2 apg for 20 games in the league. He also added 11.7 ppg and 2.6 rpg for 26 games in Adriatic league. In EuroCup, Rudez registered 5.5 ppg for 6 appearances. Before Cibona, Damjan Rudez played two years for Cedevita Zagreb. In 2008/09 he was a member of Union Olimpija helping the team to win Slovenian title and Cup. Year before that he played for Split. In 2006, Damjan Rudez won the Belgian league title with Oostende. He is a product of Zrinjevac Zagreb.


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  SWITZERLAND   


Kusnacht-Erlenbach inks deal with rookie Joe Meehan - by Eurobasket News

Joe Meehan (182-G) will start his professional basketball career overseas. The American guard signed a 1-year deal with Kusnacht-Erlenbach (Switzerland). Meehan is a product of Lebanon Valley (NCAA3), where he graduated few months ago. He was named NABC Division III All-Middle Atlantic Region Player of the Year -12. Meehan was also awarded with NABC Division III All-Middle Atlantic Region 2nd Team -12.


BBC Monthey signs Adnan Hodzic, returns Cedric Mafuta - by Eurobasket News

BBC Monthey announced signing of the Bosnian forward Adnan Hodzic (203-F-88, college: Lipscomb). The team also returned its former player Cedric Mafuta (192-F-84) for the next season.
Hodzic arrives to Monthey from the German team Walter Tigers Tuebingen. There he had 8.8 ppg and 4.1 rpg in 34 games last season. It was his first year as a pro. Hodzic is a product of Lipscomb University, where he graduated in 2011.
Cedric Mafuta played for Monthey in 2010/11 season. He appeared 33 times in LNA averaging 6.4 points and 2.8 rebounds. Last season Mafuta played for Geneve Lions. However, he spent only few months with the team registering 2.3 ppg and 1.3 rpg for 8 games. Mafuta had 6 ppg and 4.3 rpg for the Swiss National Team in Qualifications to European Championships Division B 2011. He got a chance in 3 games.


SP Star Gordola hires Enrico Montefusco as new Head Coach - by Eurobasket News

SP Star Gordola got a new Head Coach for the upcoming season. The team hired Italian specialist Enrico Montefusco . It will be his first head coaching experience. Most recently Montefusco served as Assistant Coach of Copra Morpho Piacenza. They competed in Italian A dilettanti league. From 2002 to 2008, he worked as Assistant Coach of Milano. Enrico Montefusco replaces Milan Mladjan, who moves to BC Arbedo 79. He will work with their youth selections. SP Star Gordola will compete in LN1 next season. The reached Playoff Semifinals in the latest one.


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  SYRIA   


U18 Championship: Syria won the opener over Singapore - by Eurobasket News

Singapore U18-Syria U18 47:78

Syria won the opener of the 22nd FIBA Asia U18 Championship. Syria grabbed a 78:47 win in the first game of the tournament. Singapore, who made a comeback into the competition after a six-year gap began and well and the SEABA team kept pace with their much taller rivals for the entire first half.
Syria took 14:13 lead in the opening period but pushed the tempo for good later in the game. They added 19-16 in the second frame and enjoyed 33:29 lead at the halftime. The third quarter was decisive in the game as Syria erupted with 26-11 in it. Moreover thy closed the game with 19-7 in the last stanza for the final result.
Mohamad Atle (199-C-95) top-scored for the winners with 14 points and 13 rebounds, while Mahmmoud Trub (195-F-94) added 11. Ockba Baghajati (182-G-94) and Mourad Hashim (176-G-95) delivered 10 points each. Ding Loon TAY posted 14 points in the losing effort. Jun Wei TAN and Weng Hon Low Remus (183-F-94) followed him with 8 each.

Singapore U18: Ding Loon TAY 14, Jun Wei TAN 8, Low Remus 8
Syria U18: Mohamad Atle 14+13 rebs, Mahmmoud Trub 11, Ockba Baghajati 10 Mourad Hashim 10


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  TAIWAN   


U18 Championship: Taiwan fire past Indonesia in Ulaanbaatar - by Eurobasket News

Taiwan U18 - Indonesia U18 99:44

Taiwan celebrated the first win at the U18 Asia Championship. They overcame Indonesia in Group C. Lu Kuan-Hsuan (180-G-95) and Fang Shih-En (199-C-94) led the charge with 18 points each.
Taiwan limited their opponents to just 8 points in the opening quarter to take a 16-point lead. Taiwan opened the second frame on a 19:3 run to clear off. They established a 49:17 lead at halftime. The margin just kept on growing throughout the third quarter. Taiwan ensured a 71:28 lead into the fourth stanza. They did not slow down in the fourth period and celebrated a well-deserved win at the end. Lee Chia-Jui (200-C-94) accounted for 11 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Jan Panagan (179-G-94) and Kristianto Halim (201-C-94) answered with 11 points each for Indonesia.

Taiwan U18: Lu Kuan-Hsuan 18, Fang Shih-En 18, Lee Chia-Jui 11
Indonesia U18: Jan Panagan 11, Kristianto Halim 11


Yulon Luxgen add George Goode - by Eurobasket News

George Goode (203-F-88) is heading to Taiwan. The forward has agreed on terms of contract with Yulon Luxgen. George Goode will start his pro career in Yulon Luxgen. The forward has just graduated from the Fairleigh Dickinson University. He averaged 12.8 points, 7.4 rebounds, 1.6 assists and 1.4 blocks per game in his senior season. Previously George Goode studied and played for the University of Louisville. His stats read 2.9 points and 1.4 rebounds per game in 2010/11 season. He was Big East Tournament finalist together with the Cardinals.
Yulon Luxgen finished the previous season in the fourth position at 16-14 record. They lost to Pure Youth in the SBL semifinal series.


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  TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO   


D'Or Fischer for Trinidad national team, will he end-up in Barcelona ? - by Eurobasket

According to some rumours U.S. pro player D'or Fischer (211-C-81, college: W.Virginia) is about to receive Trinidad/Tobago passport, which will allow him to join Trinidad national team. 6-11 center could be for sure the best player in the national team. Spanish Regal Barcelona is also interested in the player. Getting Trinidad/Tobago passport gives him a status of Cotonou player and in consequence it does not block a limit of import players signed by a team. If he signs in Spain, it would be his third season in a row in ACB. He has 7-years after-college career playing pro basketball in top European leagues. The last 4 years he played in Euroleague representing such well-known teams like Maccabi Tel Aviv (Israel) and Real Madrid (Spain). He used to play also in Belgium, Germany and Poland. Fischer is probably one of best U.S. players, who did not make it to the NBA. Although he played for Roanoke Dazzle in NBA D-League, and few times in NBA sumemr leagues. However he decided to be top player in Euroleague teams instead of trying on the bench with NBA teams. The last season Fischer spent at Gescrap Bizkaia Bilbao, where he was best blocker (1.9bpg) in Spanish league averaging also 8.5ppg and 5.5rpg. He played also 19 Euroleague games with stats: 7.9ppg, 5.9rpg, 1.6apg, 1.1bpg.


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  TURKEY   


Bandirma Kirmizi inks deal with Raymond Sykes - by Eurobasket News

Raymond Sykes (206-F/C-86, agency: Court Side, college: Clemson) will continue his career in Turkey. The American big guy penned a 1-year deal with Bandirma Kirmizi. Few days ago the team signed forward Gilbert Brown (198-F-87, college: Pittsburgh). Sykes spent last season with German BG Goettingen. He appeared 27 times with them in the league averaging 10.8 points and 5.8 rebounds. The player also added 13.5 ppg and 6.3 rpg for 6 games in EuroChalllenge. Before Goettingen, Raymond Sykes played for Venezuelan Trotamundos de Carabobo. In 2010/11 season the player had 14.1 ppg and 6.2 rpg in 48 games with the NBA D-League team Sioux Falls Skyforce. He was their member also in 2009/10. This summer Raymond Sykes played for Dominican Republic team San Carlos.


Fenerbahce Ulker adds Ilkan Karaman to 2+1 year deal - by Eurobasket News

Ilkan Karaman (205-F-90) is a new member of Fenerbahce Ulker. The Turkish power forward penned 2+1 year deal with his new club. Karaman arrives to Fener from Karsiyaka, where he spent last season. For 32 games in TBL the PF had 10.7 ppg and 6.4 rpg. The player also added 10.4 ppg and 7.3 rpg for 12 games in EuroChallenge. Before Karsiyaka, Ilkan Karaman spent four years with Tofas Bursa. In the past, he played for ITU Istanbul juniors. Karaman played for Turkish U20 National Team in 2009 and 2010. He had 9.8 ppg and 5.2 rpg for 9 games at U20 EuroBasket in Rhodes three years ago. This summer Karaman was invited to join Turkish senior NT camp. The player was selected as 57th overall pick this summer by the Brooklyn Nets. According to some sources, Ilkan Karaman had contract with Galatasaray but somehow it wasn't official, so the player moved to FB Ulker.


Karaman move caused speculation - Manager talked Eurobasket.com - by Ugur Turker

Today, Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul announced that they signed 2+1 years deal with Ilkan Karaman (205-F-90). On the other hand, Galatasaray Medical Park Istanbul Head Coach Ergin Ataman (agency: Beo Basket ) said that Ilkan is still Galatasaray Medical Park Istanbul's player. After two sides' claims, Eurobasket.com Turkey reached manager of Ilkan Karaman.
" Galatasaray Medical Park Istanbul had to know that Ilkan was free agent after problem being licenced for 2012-2013 season. We agreed with Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul without any illegal action against Galatasaray Medical Park Istanbul. Rules will show that we are right. We can say that after approval of Basketball Federation, Ilkan is Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul palyer. " Ms. Akcil said.
Next weeks will show that who is right.


U18 European Championship: Turkey topple Ukraine - by Eurobasket News

Turkey U18 - Ukraine U18 70:60

Turkey will play for the 9th place at U18 European Championship. They defeated Ukraine in the classification round encounter today. Turkey will face Slovenia tomorrow. Ukraine will cap their campaign against Greece.
Turkey and Ukraine stayed on level terms throughout the opening quarter. Turkey eked out a 14:13 lead after ten minutes. Ukraine bounced back in the second quarter. They denied the deficit and drew things level at 24. Turkey increased the tempo after the big break. They knocked down 21 points in the third stanza and opened a 4-point lead. The margin grew at 10-point mark with under three minutes remaining. Ukraine did not recover as Turkey rallied to a relatively easy win at the end. Kerem Kanter (203-PF-95) posted 14 points for Turkey. Kenan Sipahi (198-PG-95) added 11 points, while Burak Yildizli (202-PF-94) had 10 points for the winners. Yevgen Sakhniuk (201-PF-95) answered with 14 points for Ukraine. Stanislav Kudrya (189-PG-95) had 11 points in the loss.

Turkey U18: Kerem Kanter 14, Kenan Sipahi 11, Burak Yildizli 10
Ukraine U18: Yevgen Sakhniuk 14, Stanislav Kudrya 11


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  U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS   


Guidance Avoids NBBA Sweep, Wins Game Three - by David Edole

Jerome Nathaniel scorched the nets for 27 points and grabbed nine rebounds to lead Guidance to a 93-85 victory over Boys Dem on Wednesday at the Ronald Charles gymnasium. The victory helped Guidance avoid being swept out of the New Breed Basketball 2012 finals and the team now looks to even the series at two games apiece on Friday.

Down 2-0 in the best of five finals, Guidance knew exactly what was at stake when they took the floor at RCG on Wednesday: Win or face the humiliation of being swept 3-0 in the NBBA finals.

They played with an urgency of a team that knew that their backs were against the wall and took the opening quarter 30-27, behind 12 and 10 points respectively from Ryan Rawlins and Nathaniel.

The team continued its stellar play in the second quarter scoring 24 points while defensively holding Boys Dem to just 13, to set the lead to 14 points at the half, 54-40.

The teams played to a stalemate in the third quarter as they both netted 21 points in the period, which meant the Guidance lead was still 14 points at the end of three quarters at 75-61.

Boys Dem made a run in the fourth quarter, getting to within four points of the lead at one point, but Guidance was able to weather that storm to gradually pull away late for a 98-85 victory, living to fight another day.

Along with Nathaniel, Guidance got good offensive support from Rawlins who netted 23 points, Stephaun Adams with 15 and Raydel Dennis who finished with 11 points and 17 rebounds.

Boys Dem figures were led by Rasheed Swanston (196-F-95) with 26 points, Wilson Ferrance (191-G) with 15, Salim Ross (92) with 12, and Zomari Swanston (193-G/F) finished with 13 points and 12 rebounds.

It must be mentioned that both teams played with one sub on their benches as both rosters have been severely decimated by the return of some players to stateside schools. It will be interesting to see how the finals end up should there be any more defections.


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  UKRAINE   


Dnipro close to Daniel Kickert - by Eurobasket News

Dnipro Dnipropetrovsk are close to signing deal with Daniel Kickert (208-C/F-83, college: St.Mary's, CA). The centre has arrived to Lithuania to join Dnipro. If he passes all necessary medical tests he will sign the deal with the team. Daniel Kickert spent the previous season in Poland. The Australian centre played for PGE Turow. He tallied 14.0 points, 3.3 boards per game in EuroCup. In Polish League Daniel Kickert notched 14.8 points, 4.3 boards and 1.0 assist per appearance. He earned All-Polish League Honourable Mention. The centre participated at PLK All-Star Game in 2012. Previously Daniel Kickert had stints in Spain and Italy. Daniel Kickert has been the member of Australian National Team since 2004.


U18 European Championship: Turkey topple Ukraine - by Eurobasket News

Turkey U18 - Ukraine U18 70:60

Turkey will play for the 9th place at U18 European Championship. They defeated Ukraine in the classification round encounter today. Turkey will face Slovenia tomorrow. Ukraine will cap their campaign against Greece.
Turkey and Ukraine stayed on level terms throughout the opening quarter. Turkey eked out a 14:13 lead after ten minutes. Ukraine bounced back in the second quarter. They denied the deficit and drew things level at 24. Turkey increased the tempo after the big break. They knocked down 21 points in the third stanza and opened a 4-point lead. The margin grew at 10-point mark with under three minutes remaining. Ukraine did not recover as Turkey rallied to a relatively easy win at the end. Kerem Kanter (203-PF-95) posted 14 points for Turkey. Kenan Sipahi (198-PG-95) added 11 points, while Burak Yildizli (202-PF-94) had 10 points for the winners. Yevgen Sakhniuk (201-PF-95) answered with 14 points for Ukraine. Stanislav Kudrya (189-PG-95) had 11 points in the loss.

Turkey U18: Kerem Kanter 14, Kenan Sipahi 11, Burak Yildizli 10
Ukraine U18: Yevgen Sakhniuk 14, Stanislav Kudrya 11


Budivelnyk send Aleksandr Tishchenko to DniproAzot on loan - by Eurobasket News

DniproAzot bolstered their frontcourt. They added Aleksandr Tishchenko (205-F/C-89) to the roster. The centre arrives on loan from Budivelnyk. Last season Aleksandr Tishchenko played for BC Kyiv. He averaged 0.5 points per game in Superleague. The centre used to play for U18 National Team. He was the member of Ukrainian University National Team in 2011.


Artur Drozdov joins Budivelnyk - by Eurobasket News

Artur Drozdov (200-SF-80) will continue his career in Budivelnyk. The forward had returned to the Kyiv team. He played for Budivelnyk in 2009/10 season. Artur Drozdov left Azovmash yesterday. He had bought out of his contract with the Mariupol team. The forward joined Azovmash at the start of the previous season. Artur Drozdov notched 10.7 points, 7.6 boards, 1.4 assists per game in Superleague. In VTB League his stats read 10.5 points, 6.4 rebounds, 1.0 assist and 1.0 steal per game. Artur Drozdov also notched 9.5 points and 4.0 rebounds per EuroCup appearance. He made it into All-Ukrainian Superleague Domestic Players Team. Previously Artur Drozdov had spells with Vanoli-Braga Cremona, Budivelnyk Kyiv, BC Kyiv, BC Donetsk, Pau-Orthez and Autodorozhnik Saratov. He was named All-French ProA Most Improved Player of the Year in 2003. Artur Drozdov has been playing for the Ukrainian National Team since 2003. He is the captain of the National Team.



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Women News


U18 USA jumps to 2-0 in Gurabo - by Eurobasket News

U18 USA - U18 ARGENTINA 68-28

USA celebrated second straight win at U18 FIBA Americas championship in Gurabo. This time the defending champion smashed Argentina 68-28 for 2-0 record in Group A. USA will meet Colombia tomorrow and will try to win this pool with perfect score. At the other side, Argentina dropped to 1-1, but still has a nice chance to reach the Semifinals. USA took control on its rival from the very beginning and never looked back after that. Quarters: 18-6, 17-4, 17-9, 16-9. Breanna Stewart (6'3''-F/C-94) led the winners with double-double of 17 points and 12 rebounds. Michaela Mabrey (5'9''-G-94) scored 13 points and Morgan Tuck (6'2''-F-94) added one less. At the other side, Argentina did not have anyone with 5 or more points. Leon Zulema Garcia (6'1''-C-94), Macarena Jerez (5'4''-PG-94) and Sofia Chelini (5'6''-PG-95) stopped 4 pts each. As mentioned above, in the last day of the Preliminary Round USA will meet Colombia. Argentina's rival will be Dominican Republic.

USA: Breanna Stewart 17+12 boards, Michaela Mabrey 13, Morgan Tuck 12
Argentina: Leon Zulema Garcia 4, Macarena Jerez 4, Sofia Chelini 4


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  AUSTRALIA   


U17 Spain explodes in Q3 (23-3) to beat U17 Australia in Amsterdam - by Eurobasket News

U17 AUSTRALIA - U17 SPAIN 49-65

Spain had amazing third quarter against Australia, which allowed them to take the first win at U17 FIBA World Championship in Amsterdam. Spain celebrated comfortable 65-49 victory for 1-0 record in Preliminary Group B, where six teams fight to earn four Quarterfinals ticket. Participants of this pool are also Japan, Brazil, Turkey and Holland. Yaiza Rodriguez (163-PG-95) paced Spain with 19 points and Ariadna Pujol (182-F-95) added 11 points, plus 10 rebounds. She had poor 0/5 from behind the arc. Third scorer in victory was Leticia Romero (177-G-95) with 10 points, while she also registered 6 rebounds and 5 assists. Australia was up by 5 at the halftime, but Spain exploded after the breather making impressive 23-3 for the next ten minutes. Australia was not able to recover from this run and faced with 16-point loss at the end. The best player in Australia was Tiana Mangakahia (165-PG-95) with 10 points and 5 rebounds. Stephanie Collins (195-C-95) (9 rebs) and Vanessa Panousis (170-PG-95) netted 7 points apiece. Australia will try to consolidate now and will try to beat Brazil tomorrow. Spain will play against Turkey in the next meeting.

Australia: Tiana Mangakahia 10+5 boards, Stephanie Collins 7+9 boards, Vanessa Panousis 7
Spain: Yaiza Rodriguez 19, Ariadna Pujol 11+10 boards, Leticia Romero 10+6 boards+5 as


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  BELARUS   


U20 Latvia escapes with 67-64 win against U20 Belarus - by Eurobasket News

U20 LATVIA - U20 BELARUS 67-64

Latvia grabbed its first win at U20 EuroBasket in Debrecin. They outplayed Belarus 67-64 improving to 1-1 record in Group A. Thanks to this victory Latvia is now very close to reach the second stage. Belarus is difficult situation after its second straight loss at this event. Latvia was 58-48 up with 7:28 remaining in the game, but Belarus closed the gap to 66-64 with 1:07 to go. However, Belarus missed a lay-up and connected two unsuccessful shots from behind the arc, while Dukate made one free throw for Latvia for rest of the way. Quarters: 17-21, 16-9, 20-15, 14-19. Latvia got double-double of 18 points and 11 rebounds from Dita Rozenberga (181-F-92). Paula Tomsone (193-C-94) had 15 points and 9 rebounds, while Ance Aizsila (175-G-94) added 12 pts to this win. Maryia Papova (186-PF-94) had amazing game at the other side with 22 points and 17 rebounds (valuation 26, MVP). Darya Lipinskaya (180-SG-93) and Maryna Ivashchanka (190-C-93) (6 rebs) scored 13 and 10 points respectively. Latvia will meet Spain in the last day of the Preliminary Round in Debrecin. Belarus will take on Lithuania.

Latvia: Dita Rozenberga 18+11 boards, Paula Tomsone 15+9 boards, Ance Aizsila 12
Belarus: Maryia Papova 22+17 boards, Darya Lipinskaya 13, Maryna Ivashchanka 10+6 boards


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  BELGIUM   


Belgium starts U17 FIBA World Championship in style - by Eurobasket News

U17 MALI - U17 BELGIUM 45-81

Belgium had a joyful Day One in Amsterdam. They destroyed Mali 81-45 in the opening game of U17 FIBA World Championship for 1-0 record in Preliminary Group A. Participants of this pool are also Canada, Italy, South Korea and defending champion USA. Four teams will advance to the Quarterfinals. Belgium took control on its rival from the very beginning and never looked back. They had 10-point lead after ten minutes and jumped to plus 26 until the halftime. Nothing has changed after the breather and Belgium celebrated huge win at the end. Hind Ben Abdelkader (173-SG-95) was their leading player with 25 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. Celine Lemmens (182-PF-95) scored 11 points and Kyara Linskens (191-C-96) followed with 9 pts, plus 8 boards. In Mali, Mariam Maiga (169-G-96) and Aissata Fomba (175-G-95) (8 rebs) were better than the others with 14 and 12 pts respectively. Djeneba N'Diaye (165-PG-97) had 9 pts. On Saturday, Belgium will play against South Korea. Mali's rival will be Italy.

Mali: Mariam Maiga 14, Aissata Fomba 12+8 boards, Djeneba N'Diaye 9
Belgium: Hind Ben Abdelkader 25+7 boards+5 as, Celine Lemmens 11, Kyara Linskens 9+8 boards


Host of U20 EuroBasket Division B starts with victory over Belgium - by Eurobasket News

U20 BELGIUM - U20 CZECH REPUBLIC 60-66

Czech Republic outplayed Belgium 66-60 on Thursday in Klatovy. The host of U20 EuroBasket Division B has 1-0 record now at this event. There are nine participates and only the medal winners will advance to Division A. Barbora Kasparkova (181-F/C-92) exploded with 26 points and 9 rebounds in victory. Karolina Elhotova (182-F-92) (7 rebs), Renata Pudlakova (173-PG-92) (6 rebs) and Beata Adamcova (185-PF-93) (6 rebs) netted 9 points each. In defeat, Emmanuella Mayombo (170-SG-92, agency: LBM Management) answered with 21 points and their second scorer was Jaleesa Maes (188-C-92) with 13 pts (6 rebs). Alisson Mai (183-C-93) stopped to 6 points and 4 rebs. Teams were tied at 56-56 with 3:10 remaining in the game, but than Czech Republic closed this meeting with 10-4 run. Czech Republic's rival today will be Israel. Belgium will play against Bulgaria hoping to get the first victory at this event.

Belgium: Emmanuella Mayombo 21, Jaleesa Maes 13+6 boards, Alisson Mai 6+4 boards
Czech Republic: Barbora Kasparkova 26+9 boards, Karolina Elhotova 9+7 boards, Renata Pudlakova 9+6 boards, Beata Adamcova 9+6 boards


U20 Belgium celebrates first win in Klatovy - by Eurobasket News

U20 BULGARIA - U20 BELGIUM 51-75

Both teams failed in Day One of U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. Belgium cruised past Bulgaria on Friday 75-51 improving its score to 1-1 at this event, while at the other side Bulgaria dropped to 0-2. Bulgaria opened the game better making 21-15 lead in the first ten minutes, but all after that belonged to Belgium. They answered with 17-9 in the second quarter and jumped to plus 9 with ten minutes remaining in the game. Belgium totally dominated in Q4 (22-7) to register comfortable win in this meeting. Camille Lebrun (174-SF-94) scored 15 points in victory and Emmanuella Mayombo (170-SG-92, agency: LBM Management) added 10 points, plus 6 assists. Jill Van Meerbeeck (176-SF-94) and Natacha Doppee (170-PG-93, agency: LBM Management) helped with 8 points each. In defeat, Viktoriya Stoycheva (171-PG-92) collected 11 points, while Mariya Svetoslavova (179-F/G-93) and Gabriela Kostova (192-C-94) posted 8 points apiece. In Day Three, Belgium will play against Romania. Bulgaria will take on Israel.

Bulgaria: Viktoriya Stoycheva 11, Mariya Svetoslavova 8, Gabriela Kostova 8
Belgium: Camille Lebrun 15, Emmanuella Mayombo 10+6 as, Jill Van Meerbeeck 8, Natacha Doppee 8


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  BRAZIL   


Japan hands 92-71 loss to Brazil at the start of U17 FIBA World Championship - by Eurobasket News

U17 JAPAN - U17 BRAZIL 92-71

Japan exploded in the last ten minutes of the game against Brazil to register comfortable 21-point win. Both teams are placed to Preliminary Group B of U17 FIBA World Championship in Amsterdam. Their rivals are Spain, Holland, Turkey and Australia. Four teams will book a ticket to the Quarterfinals. Japan had minimum lead after first period and increased it to 10 until the halftime (47-37). Brazil slightly improved after that, but Japan intensified defense in Q4 limiting its rival to 12 pts for ten minutes, while at the other side the drained 26 points leaving Brazil without the chance. Yunika Nakamura (95) top-scored in victory with 21 points and she pulled down 6 rebounds. Natsumi Nagai (95) had 18 points and 5 rebs, while MVP of this game was Evelyn Mawuli (180-F/C-95) with double-double of 15 points and 12 rebs (valuation 21). Izabella Sangalli (181-F-95) answered with 23 points and 5 rebounds for Brazil, whose second scorer was Kananda Ribeiro (183-F/C-96) with 11 pts (5 rebs). Carla Silva Lucchini (95) was limited to 10 points and 5 rebs for 32 minutes on the court. Brazil will try to beat Australia tomorrow. Japan will meet host of this event - Holland.

Japan: Yunika Nakamura 21+6 boards, Natsumi Nagai 18+5 boards, Evelyn Mawuli 15+12 boards
Brazil: Izabella Sangalli 23+5 boards, Kananda Ribeiro 11+5 boards, Carla Silva Lucchini 10+5 boards


U18 Brazil too strong for U18 Mexico in Gurabo - by Eurobasket News

U18 Mexico - U18 Brazil 31-62

Brazil had no troubles to beat Mexico in Day Two of U18 FIBA Americas championship in Gurabo. It was a 62-31 victory and Brazil jumped to 2-0 record in Group B. They have a great chance to reach the Semifinals. At the other side, Mexico (0-2) is in very difficult situation as they slipped to 0-2. Brazil made 9-point lead already in the first quarter and jumped to plus 18 at the halftime. Nothing has changed after that as Brazil kept increasing its lead for rest of the way. Maria Ferreira (188-F-94) scored 13 pts and pulled down 8 rebounds in victory, and Estela Gregorio (177-G-94) posted 11 points. Martha Silva (185-C-94) had 8 pts and 5 rebounds. Mexico's best player was Maria Faz (95) with 11 points and 13 rebounds, while Maria Morales (95) stopped to 7 pts. Brazil will play against Puerto Rico today and Mexico will meet Canada. All Semifinals tickets are still available.

Mexico: Maria Faz 11+13 boards, Maria Morales 7
Brazil: Maria Ferreira 13+8 boards, Estela Gregorio 11, Martha Silva 8+5 boards


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  BULGARIA   


Spanou and Chatzigiakoumi lead U20 Greece to first win in Klatovy - by Eurobasket News

U20 GREECE - U20 BULGARIA 55-48

Greece was better than Bulgaria on Thursday 55-48. It was the opening day of U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. Greece started with 1-0 and hopes to take one of the medals at this event. It will be enough for Division A promotion. Greece was up by 12 at the halftime, but Bulgaria exploded after the breather cutting the margin to 3 points with one quarter to go. Greece exploded with 11-2 run in the next few minutes to secure the victory in this game. Artemis Spanou (184-F-93) top-scored in Greece with 12 points and she also pulled down 13 rebounds, while Anthoula Chatzigiakoumi (187-F-92) was the MVP of this game with 11 points and 18 rebs (valuation 21). Vasiliki Tarla (181-SF-94) also helped her country with 11 pts. In defeat, Mariya Svetoslavova (179-F/G-93) and Viktoriya Stoycheva (171-PG-92) posted 11 points each. Hristina Tyutyundzhieva (189-C-93) added two points less. Greece will play against Romania today. Bulgaria will take on Belgium.

Greece: Artemis Spanou 12+13 boards, Anthoula Chatzigiakoumi 11+18 boards, Vasiliki Tarla 11
Bulgaria: Mariya Svetoslavova 11, Viktoriya Stoycheva 11, Hristina Tyutyundzhieva 9


U20 Belgium celebrates first win in Klatovy - by Eurobasket News

U20 BULGARIA - U20 BELGIUM 51-75

Both teams failed in Day One of U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. Belgium cruised past Bulgaria on Friday 75-51 improving its score to 1-1 at this event, while at the other side Bulgaria dropped to 0-2. Bulgaria opened the game better making 21-15 lead in the first ten minutes, but all after that belonged to Belgium. They answered with 17-9 in the second quarter and jumped to plus 9 with ten minutes remaining in the game. Belgium totally dominated in Q4 (22-7) to register comfortable win in this meeting. Camille Lebrun (174-SF-94) scored 15 points in victory and Emmanuella Mayombo (170-SG-92, agency: LBM Management) added 10 points, plus 6 assists. Jill Van Meerbeeck (176-SF-94) and Natacha Doppee (170-PG-93, agency: LBM Management) helped with 8 points each. In defeat, Viktoriya Stoycheva (171-PG-92) collected 11 points, while Mariya Svetoslavova (179-F/G-93) and Gabriela Kostova (192-C-94) posted 8 points apiece. In Day Three, Belgium will play against Romania. Bulgaria will take on Israel.

Bulgaria: Viktoriya Stoycheva 11, Mariya Svetoslavova 8, Gabriela Kostova 8
Belgium: Camille Lebrun 15, Emmanuella Mayombo 10+6 as, Jill Van Meerbeeck 8, Natacha Doppee 8


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  CANADA   


U18 Canada cruises past U18 Puerto Rico 58-43, joins them with 1-1 - by Eurobasket News

U18 CANADA - U18 PUERTO RICO 58-43

Very valuable win for Canada against the host of U18 FIBA Americas championship. Canada handed 58-43 loss to Puerto Rico joining them with 1-1 record in Group B. Both teams have a chance to reach the Semifinals, but everything will be clear later today. Third quarter was the crucial one in this meeting. Teams were tied at 31-31 at the HT and Canada exploded with 19-7 for the next ten minutes, after what Puerto Rico was not able to reply. Quarters: 18-17, 13-14, 19-7, 8-5. Paige Crozon (186-F-94) paced Canada with 18 points and 6 rebounds. Michelle Hudyn (188-F) had 10 points and 10 rebs, while Samantha Cooper (185-G/F) also scored 10 pts, but to go with 6 boards. Krystal Luciano (96) collected 11 points and 9 rebs in defeat. Sidney Santos (95) (5 rebs) and Paola Crespo (96) posted 6 pts each. Today is the last day of the Preliminary Round in Gurabo. Canada will play against Mexico and Puerto Rico will take on top-ranked Brazil.

Canada: Paige Crozon 18+6 boards, Michelle Hudyn 10+10 boards, Samantha Cooper 10+6 boards
Puerto Rico: Krystal Luciano 11+9 boards, Sidney Santos 6+5 boards, Paola Crespo 6


Italy downs Canada 68-55 in Day One of U17 FIBA World Championship - by Eurobasket News

U17 CANADA - U17 ITALY 55-68

Italy opened U17 FIBA World Championship with victory. They downed Canada on Friday 68-55 for 1-0 record in Preliminary Group A. There are six teams in this pool and four of them will advance to the Quarterfinals. Third quarter was the crucial one in this meeting. Italy was up by 5 at the halftime and they totally took control on its rival after the breather making 18-7 in Q3. It means that Italy jumped to plus 16 and last period was just the formality. Antonia Peresson (177-PG-95) scored 18 points for the winners and Elisa Penna (186-F-95) added 16 points, plus 6 boards. Martina Kacerik (179-SG-96) added 15 pts. Kia Nurse (180-PG-96) shined in loss with 20 points. Their second scorer was Emily Potter (196-C/F-95) with 8 points and she grabbed 5 rebounds beside that. Canada will meet USA on Saturday, while Italy will play against Mali.

Canada: Kia Nurse 20, Emily Potter 8+5 boards
Italy: Antonia Peresson 18, Elisa Penna 16+6 boards, Martina Kacerik 15


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  COLOMBIA   


U18 Colombia celebrates first win in Gurabo - by Eurobasket News

U18 COLOMBIA - U18 DOMINICAN REPUBLIC 47-40

Colombia grabbed its first victory at U18 FIBA Americas in Gurabo. They handed 47-40 loss to Dominican Republic for 1-1 record in Group A. However, it is hard to believe that Colombia will be able to reach the Semifinals as they will have to beat powerful USA today. At the other side, Dominican Republic stays winless after two games, but still has a chance to advance. Everything will be clear later today. Maria Tapias (95) led the winners with 23 points and 6 rebounds, and Sara Sosa (95) added 11 pts, 8 boards and 6 assists. Their third scorer was Laura Ramirez (94) with 6 points (7 rebs). In Dominican Republic, Yamel Abreu (95) (12 rebs) and Frabel Feliz (94) (7 rebs) posted 11 points each, while Cheisy Hernandez (94) collected 8 points and 10 boards. Quarters: 12-6, 10-7, 5-14, 20-13. Dominican Republic will have to beat Argentina today with at least with 9-point difference and to hope that USA will beat Colombia.

Colombia: Maria Tapias 23+6 boards, Sara Sosa 11+8 boards+6 as, Laura Ramirez 6+7 boards
Dominican Republic: Yamel Abreu 11+12 boards, Frabel Feliz 11+7 boards, Cheisy Hernandez 8+10 boards


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  CZECH REPUBLIC   


Second straight win for U20 Czech Republic in Klatovy - by Eurobasket News

U20 CZECH REPUBLIC - U20 ISRAEL 77-60

Second straight win for the host of U20 EuroBasket Division B. Czech Republic downed Israel 77-60 on Friday for 2-0 record at this event. The hosts exploded in the second half to register comfortable win in this meeting. Quarters: 22-15, 10-19, 21-10, 24-16. Karolina Elhotova (182-F-92) shined in victory with 16 points and 5 rebounds, while Barbora Kasparkova (181-F/C-92) also was great adding 15 points and 11 rebs. Renata Pudlakova (173-PG-92) helped with 12 points. In the loosing squad, Bar Gilinski (185-PF-92) shined with 21 points and 14 boards. The second scorer in Israel was Thea Lemberger (175-G-92) with 15 points and Nof Kedem (170-SG-94) stopped to 9. Israel dropped to 0-2. Their next rival will be Bulgaria. Czech Republic will play against Hungary on Saturday.

Czech Republic: Karolina Elhotova 16+5 boards, Barbora Kasparkova 15+11 boards, Renata Pudlakova 12
Israel: Bar Gilinski 21+14 boards, Thea Lemberger 15, Nof Kedem 9


Host of U20 EuroBasket Division B starts with victory over Belgium - by Eurobasket News

U20 BELGIUM - U20 CZECH REPUBLIC 60-66

Czech Republic outplayed Belgium 66-60 on Thursday in Klatovy. The host of U20 EuroBasket Division B has 1-0 record now at this event. There are nine participates and only the medal winners will advance to Division A. Barbora Kasparkova (181-F/C-92) exploded with 26 points and 9 rebounds in victory. Karolina Elhotova (182-F-92) (7 rebs), Renata Pudlakova (173-PG-92) (6 rebs) and Beata Adamcova (185-PF-93) (6 rebs) netted 9 points each. In defeat, Emmanuella Mayombo (170-SG-92, agency: LBM Management) answered with 21 points and their second scorer was Jaleesa Maes (188-C-92) with 13 pts (6 rebs). Alisson Mai (183-C-93) stopped to 6 points and 4 rebs. Teams were tied at 56-56 with 3:10 remaining in the game, but than Czech Republic closed this meeting with 10-4 run. Czech Republic's rival today will be Israel. Belgium will play against Bulgaria hoping to get the first victory at this event.

Belgium: Emmanuella Mayombo 21, Jaleesa Maes 13+6 boards, Alisson Mai 6+4 boards
Czech Republic: Barbora Kasparkova 26+9 boards, Karolina Elhotova 9+7 boards, Renata Pudlakova 9+6 boards, Beata Adamcova 9+6 boards


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  DOMINICAN REPUBLIC   


U18 Colombia celebrates first win in Gurabo - by Eurobasket News

U18 COLOMBIA - U18 DOMINICAN REPUBLIC 47-40

Colombia grabbed its first victory at U18 FIBA Americas in Gurabo. They handed 47-40 loss to Dominican Republic for 1-1 record in Group A. However, it is hard to believe that Colombia will be able to reach the Semifinals as they will have to beat powerful USA today. At the other side, Dominican Republic stays winless after two games, but still has a chance to advance. Everything will be clear later today. Maria Tapias (95) led the winners with 23 points and 6 rebounds, and Sara Sosa (95) added 11 pts, 8 boards and 6 assists. Their third scorer was Laura Ramirez (94) with 6 points (7 rebs). In Dominican Republic, Yamel Abreu (95) (12 rebs) and Frabel Feliz (94) (7 rebs) posted 11 points each, while Cheisy Hernandez (94) collected 8 points and 10 boards. Quarters: 12-6, 10-7, 5-14, 20-13. Dominican Republic will have to beat Argentina today with at least with 9-point difference and to hope that USA will beat Colombia.

Colombia: Maria Tapias 23+6 boards, Sara Sosa 11+8 boards+6 as, Laura Ramirez 6+7 boards
Dominican Republic: Yamel Abreu 11+12 boards, Frabel Feliz 11+7 boards, Cheisy Hernandez 8+10 boards


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  EUROCUP   


Kibirkstis-Tiche-IKI gets bigger with Celeste Trahan - by Eurobasket News

Kibirkstis-Tiche-IKI officially announced signing of Celeste Trahan (184-C-85, agency: LBM Management, college: Elizabeth City) for the upcoming season. The team will compete in EuroCup and it will be the only representative from Lithuania. Traham heads to Kibirkstis-Tiche-IKI from BCF Elfic Fribourg Basket, where she spent last three seasons. She was named Eurobasket.com All-Swiss LNA Player of the Year three times. A year ago Traham led her team to LNA title. Last season she had impressive 29.1 ppg, 15.5 rpg, 2 spg and 1.4 bpg for 28 games. Traham was top scorer and top rebounder of the competition. Before Fribourg, Celeste Trahan spent one year with German TV Saarlouis Royals. There she had 15.2 ppg and 9.1 rpg for 31 games in 2008/09 season. Traham graduated at Elizabeth City State University (NCAA2) in 2008.


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  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U20   

W-Standings - Group A

Standings
Group A
1. Spain2-0
2. Latvia1-1
3. Lithuania1-1
4. Belarus0-2
Group B
1. Sweden2-0
2. Holland1-1
3. Poland1-1
4. Italy0-2
Group C
1. Turkey2-0
2. Ukraine1-1
3. France1-1
4. Portugal0-2
Group D
1. Serbia2-0
2. Slovakia1-1
3. Russia1-1
4. U.Kingdom0-2

Preliminary Round: Round 2

A

Aug. 17: ESP - LTU 93-55
Aug. 17: LAT - BLR 67-64

B

Aug. 17: POL - NED 80-66
Aug. 17: ITA - SWE 59-61

C

Aug. 17: FRA - UKR 66-75
Aug. 17: TUR - POR 62-52

D

Aug. 17: SRB - ENG 71-59
Aug. 17: RUS - SVK 61-64

Preliminary Round: Round 3

A

Aug. 18: LTU - BLR
Aug. 18: ESP - LAT

B

Aug. 18: SWE - NED
Aug. 18: ITA - POL

C

Aug. 18: UKR - POR
Aug. 18: FRA - TUR

D

Aug. 18: SVK - ENG
Aug. 18: RUS - SRB


Stats Leaders (Women)

Points Per Game
 Alina IAGUPOVA
  (186-G-92)
  Avg: 23.5
 1. Iagupova, UKR23.5 
 2. Zietara, POL21.0 
 3. Abdi, SWE19.0 
 4. Kovacevic, SRB15.0 
 5. Rozenberga, LAT15.0 
 6. Druskyte, LTU14.5 
 7. Colic, SRB13.5 
 8. Okockyte, LTU13.0 
 9. Brajkovic, SRB12.5 
 10. Drammeh, SWE12.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Zofia HRUSCAKOVA
  (190-C-95)
  Avg: 11.5
 1. Hruscakova, SVK11.5 
 2. Zahui, SWE11.0 
 3. Rozenberga, LAT9.5 
 4. Grigalauskyt., LTU9.5 
 5. Brajkovic, SRB7.5 
 6. Druskyte, LTU7.5 
 7. Iagupova, UKR7.0 
 8. Kavurmaciogl., TUR7.0 
 9. Almeida, POR7.0 
 10. Chek, UKR7.0 
Assists Per Game
 Olcay CAKIR
  (180-PG-93)
  Avg: 4
 1. Cakir, TUR4.0 
 2. Iagupova, UKR3.5 
 3. Nystrom, SWE3.0 
 4. Cora, TUR3.0 
 5. Dijan, SRB2.5 
 6. Nizamova, RUS2.5 
 7. Zietara, POL2.5 
 8. Aizsila, LAT2.5 
 9. Colic, SRB2.5 
 10. Nagyova, SVK2.5 
Steals Per Game
 Alina IAGUPOVA
  (186-G-92)
  Avg: 5
 1. Iagupova, UKR5.0 
 2. Okockyte, LTU4.0 
 3. Colic, SRB3.5 
 4. Cakir, TUR3.5 
 5. Zahui, SWE3.5 
 6. Rozenberga, LAT3.0 
 7. Domingues, POR3.0 
 8. Valiuskyte, LTU3.0 
 9. Nizamova, RUS2.5 
 10. Balintova, SVK2.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Ivana BRAJKOVIC
  (195-C-93)
  Avg: 1
 1. Brajkovic, SRB1.0 
 2. Iagupova, UKR0.5 
 3. Palenikova, SVK0.5 
 4. Chek, UKR0.5 
 5. Persson, SWE0.5 
 6. Faustino, POR0.5 
 7. Samson, FRA0.5 
 8. Bridina, LAT0.5 
 9. Guler, TUR0.5 
 10. Domingues, POR0.5 


Standings Div.B (Women) - by Charles Ramsdell

Standings Div.B
1. Czech Rep.2-0
2. Germany2-0
3. Greece2-0
4. Hungary1-0
5. Belgium1-1
6. Switzerlan.0-1
7. Bulgaria0-2
8. Israel0-2
9. Romania0-2

Preliminary Round: Round 2

Aug. 17: CZE - ISR 77-60
Aug. 17: SUI - GER 52-91
Aug. 17: BUL - BEL 51-75
Aug. 17: ROM - GRE 35-67

Preliminary Round: Round 3

Aug. 18: ISR - BUL
Aug. 18: BEL - ROM
Aug. 18: HUN - CZE
Aug. 18: GRE - SUI


Division B: Day One in Klatovy - by Eurobasket News

Greece - Bulgaria 55-48
Greece was better than Bulgaria on Thursday 55-48. It was the opening day of U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. Greece started with 1-0 and hopes to take one of the medals at this event. It will be enough for Division A promotion. Greece was up by 12 at the halftime, but Bulgaria exploded after the breather cutting the margin to 3 points with one quarter to go. Greece exploded with 11-2 run in the next few minutes to secure the victory in this game. Artemis Spanou (184-F-93) top-scored in Greece with 12 points and she also pulled down 13 rebounds, while Anthoula Chatzigiakoumi (187-F-92) was the MVP of this game with 11 points and 18 rebs (valuation 21). Vasiliki Tarla (181-SF-94) also helped her country with 11 pts. In defeat, Mariya Svetoslavova (179-F/G-93) and Viktoriya Stoycheva (171-PG-92) posted 11 points each. Hristina Tyutyundzhieva (189-C-93) added two points less. Greece will play against Romania today. Bulgaria will take on Belgium.

Belgium - Czech Republic 60-66
Czech Republic outplayed Belgium 66-60 on Thursday in Klatovy. The host of U20 EuroBasket Division B has 1-0 record now at this event. There are nine participates and only the medal winners will advance to Division A. Barbora Kasparkova (181-F/C-92) exploded with 26 points and 9 rebounds in victory. Karolina Elhotova (182-F-92) (7 rebs), Renata Pudlakova (173-PG-92) (6 rebs) and Beata Adamcova (185-PF-93) (6 rebs) netted 9 points each. In defeat, Emmanuella Mayombo (170-SG-92, agency: LBM Management) answered with 21 points and their second scorer was Jaleesa Maes (188-C-92) with 13 pts (6 rebs). Alisson Mai (183-C-93) stopped to 6 points and 4 rebs. Teams were tied at 56-56 with 3:10 remaining in the game, but than Czech Republic closed this meeting with 10-4 run. Czech Republic's rival today will be Israel. Belgium will play against Bulgaria hoping to get the first victory at this event.

Israel - Hungary 64-70
Hungary registered 70-64 win against Israel in Day One of U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. There is only one group with nine teams at this event. The medal winners will be promoted to Division A. Israel had 52-49 lead with 5:52 remaining in the game, but than Hungary scored 21 points for rest of the way at the same time limiting its rival to 12 pts. That was enough for the victory. Krisztina Velkey (180-G/F-92) led Hungary with 16 points and 7 rebounds. Zsofia Licskai (191-C/F-93) and Flora Szabo (188-PF-92) netted 13 and 12 points respectively. In Israel, Bar Gilinski (185-PF-92) was way better than the others with 25 points and 9 boards. Their second scorer was Avigiel Cohen (182-G-92) with 10 pts. Hungary will take a rest today. Israel's rival will be host - Czech Republic.

Germany - Romania 95-66
Germany demonstrated its power in Day One of U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. They destroyed Romania with huge 95-66 for 1-0 record. Nine teams participate at this event and all of them are placed to the same group. Germany took control on its rival from the beginning and never looked back. Quarters: 29-15, 31-10, 23-20, 12-21. Finja Schaake (179-F-92) shined in victory with 21 points, while Judith Schmidt (186-F/C-92) and Sonja Greinacher (192-F/C-92, college: Gonzaga) followed her with 15 points each. Laura Hebecker (181-F-93) added 11 points, plus 8 boards. In defeat, Cristina Bigica (182-G/F-92) was better than the others with 20 points and 5 boards. Alexandra Ionescu (175-PG-92) (5 rebs) and Sonia Ursu (175-SG-93) (5 rebs) posted 13 and 12 points respectively. Germany will meet Switzerland today. Romania will take on Greece. Three best teams from this event will advance to Division A.


Division B: Day Two in Klatovy - by Eurobasket News

Bulgaria - Belgium 51-75
Both teams failed in Day One of U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. Belgium cruised past Bulgaria on Friday 75-51 improving its score to 1-1 at this event, while at the other side Bulgaria dropped to 0-2. Bulgaria opened the game better making 21-15 lead in the first ten minutes, but all after that belonged to Belgium. They answered with 17-9 in the second quarter and jumped to plus 9 with ten minutes remaining in the game. Belgium totally dominated in Q4 (22-7) to register comfortable win in this meeting. Camille Lebrun (174-SF-94) scored 15 points in victory and Emmanuella Mayombo (170-SG-92, agency: LBM Management) added 10 points, plus 6 assists. Jill Van Meerbeeck (176-SF-94) and Natacha Doppee (170-PG-93, agency: LBM Management) helped with 8 points each. In defeat, Viktoriya Stoycheva (171-PG-92) collected 11 points, while Mariya Svetoslavova (179-F/G-93) and Gabriela Kostova (192-C-94) posted 8 points apiece. In Day Three, Belgium will play against Romania. Bulgaria will take on Israel.

Romania - Greece 35-67
Greece had no troubles to beat Romania 67-35 in Day Two of U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. After this victory Greece jumped to 2-0 record at this event. At the same time, Romania faced with the second straight loss. Greece was up by 3 at the halftime, but they smashed its rival for rest of the game. Greece scored 42 points for the next two periods, while they limited Romania to just 7+6. Grigoria Pateraki (185-PF-93) scored 12 points for her country and Artemis Spanou (184-F-93) added 11 points, plus 13 rebs. Georgia Kantara (176-SG-93) followed with 10 points and 5 rebs. In defeat, Cristina Bigica (182-G/F-92) was better than the others with 12 points and 6 rebounds. Sonia Ursu (175-SG-93) was their second scorer with 10 points (8 rebs). Greece will play against Switzerland on Saturday, while Romania will meet Belgium.

Czech Republic - Israel 77-60
Second straight win for the host of U20 EuroBasket Division B. Czech Republic downed Israel 77-60 on Friday for 2-0 record at this event. The hosts exploded in the second half to register comfortable win in this meeting. Quarters: 22-15, 10-19, 21-10, 24-16. Karolina Elhotova (182-F-92) shined in victory with 16 points and 5 rebounds, while Barbora Kasparkova (181-F/C-92) also was great adding 15 points and 11 rebs. Renata Pudlakova (173-PG-92) helped with 12 points. In the loosing squad, Bar Gilinski (185-PF-92) shined with 21 points and 14 boards. The second scorer in Israel was Thea Lemberger (175-G-92) with 15 points and Nof Kedem (170-SG-94) stopped to 9. Israel dropped to 0-2. Their next rival will be Bulgaria. Czech Republic will play against Hungary on Saturday.

Switzerland - Germany 52-91
Germany had another great game in Klatovy. This time they blasted Switzerland 91-52 for perfect 2-0 record at U20 EuroBasket Division B. At the other side, it was the first appearance for Switzerland, who was free in Day One. Germany took control on its rival from the very beginning and never looked back. Quarters: 28-14, 24-16, 14-12, 25-10. Finja Schaake (179-F-92) led her team in scoring with 21 points, while Christina Schnorr (187-F/C-92) helped with 12 points and 9 rebounds. Laura Hebecker (181-F-93) added 11 pts and 6 boards. In Switzerland, Rosalie Grobet (185-F/C-92) had 9 points and Dorothee Studer (169-G-92) added one less. Germany will take a rest on Saturday. Switzerland will play against Greece.


Division A: Day One in Debrecin - by Eurobasket News

Group A
Lithuania - Latvia 71-66
Lithuania celebrated in Day One of U20 EuroBasket in Debrecen. They handed 71-66 loss to Latvia in Baltic derby. Both teams are placed to Preliminary Group A together with Spain and Belarus. Three teams will advance to the second stage. Kriste Druskyte (179-G/F-92) was a key player in victory with double-double of 18 points and 11 rebounds (valuation 25, MVP). Monika Grigalauskyte (190-PF-92) had 14 points and 9 boards, while Santa Okockyte (176-PG-92) added 12 pts. In the loosing squad, Krista Bridina (174-PG-94) answered with 18 points. Dita Rozenberga (181-F-92) (8 rebs) and Renate Reine (176-G-94) followed her with 12 points each. It was a very exciting meeting and Lithuania had minimum lead (67-66) with 2:44 remaining. Grigalauskyte made lay up after that and both teams were scoreless for almost 2 minutes. Druskyte sealed the victory for Lithuania with two free throws, while Latvia committed a turnover in their last possession. Quarters: 21-18, 15-16, 16-19, 19-13. Lithuania will meet Spain in Day Two. Latvia will take on Belarus.

Belarus - Spain 39-73

Group B
Sweden - Poland 56-54
Sweden grabbed 56-54 win against Poland at the beginning of U20 EuroBasket in Debrecin. Amanda Zahui (190-C-93) made a basket for Sweden setting the score to 54-51 with 26 seconds remaining in the game and Martyna Stelmach (187-F/C-92) answered with lay-up 16 seconds later. Sweden had the possession and Drammeh was sent to the line making both free throws. Poland had the ball with 9 seconds left, but Sweden quickly fouled Magdalena Zietara (170-G/F-92), who missed first and scored second FT. Sweden called a time-out and after that managed to keep the ball for rest of the way. Farhiya Abdi (188-F-92) stepped up for the winners with 21 points and Zahui added 13 points, plus 12 rebounds. Binta Drammeh (180-F-92) netted 8 points in this victory. Poland got 16 points from Zietara, while Marta Martyna Stelmach collected 14 points and 7 rebounds. Poland did not have any other player with double digits in scoring. Quarters: 17-18, 11-12, 12-12, 16-12. Sweden will meet Italy on Friday, while Poland will play against Dutch NT. All teams are placed to Group B.

Holland - Italy 72-67

Group C
Portugal - France 33-55
France had a joyful Day One at U20 EuroBasket in Debrecen. They blasted Portugal 55-33 for 1-0 record in Preliminary Group C. Turkey and Ukraine are also placed to this pool and three teams will book a spot for the next stage. The last ranked country will fight for the survival in Division A. France took control on its rival in the second period and never looked back after that. Quarters: 12-13, 12-6, 12-8, 19-6. Sara Chevaugeon (177-G-93) led the scorers in victory with 12 points and Adja Konteh (173-G/F-92) helped with 8. In defeat, Almeida collected 6 points and 7 rebounds. Ines Faustino (170-G-92) and Daniela Domingues (176-G/F-92) also posted 6 pts apiece. In Day Two, France will play against Ukraine. Portugal's Rival will be Turkey.

Ukraine - Turkey 61-86
Turkey demonstrated its power against Ukraine today in Debrecin. It was a Day One of U20 EuroBasket and Turkey celebrated comfortable 86-61 victory. After 21-21 tie in the first quarter, Turkey exploded with 27-14 for the next ten minutes and continued with 26-12 after the breather to secure the victory in this meeting. Last ten minutes were just the formality. Pelin Bilgic (173-G-94) paced Turkey with 21 points and 5 rebounds and Ozge Kavurmacioglu (187-F-93) helped with 13 points, plus 9 boards. Ayse Cora (175-G/F-93) and Ecem Guler (189-PF-92) netted 12 points each. At the other side, Ukraine got 22 points and 7 boards from Alina Iagupova (186-G-92, agency: LBM Management). Oleksandra Chek (191-C-93, agency: New Trend Agency) collected 15 pts and 7 rebs for 18 minutes on the court. Both teams are placed to Group C, where their rivals are also France and Portugal. Three teams will advance to the next stage. On Friday, Turkey will play against Portugal, while Ukraine will meet France.

Group D
United Kingdom - Russia 49-55
Russia opened U20 EuroBasket with victory. They outplayed United Kingdom on Thursday 55-49 for 1-0 record in Preliminary Group D. Participants of this pool are also Slovakia and Serbia. Alexandra Stolyar (178-G-92) scored 13 points for the winners and Ksenia Tikhonenko (190-F/C-93, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav) helped her team with 9 points plus 11 rebounds. Galina Kiseleva (182-F-93) followed them with 8 points in this game. United Kingdom got 16 points and 7 boards from Renee E. Busch (175-G-92) and she was their only player with double digits in scoring. Cheridene Green (187-C-95) was close to double-double with 9 points and 12 rebounds, while Olufemi Hamilton (170-G-93) stopped to 8 points. Russia was up by 12 points at midway of Q4 and UK only came to minus 6 for rest of the game. Quarters: 15-11, 15-12, 14-15, 11-11). Russia will play against Slovakia on today. UK will meet Serbia.

Slovakia - Serbia 67-68 OT
Serbia grabbed 68-67 OT win against Slovakia in the opening day of U20 EuroBasket in Debrecin. It was a heartbreaking thriller and Serbia won it for 1-0 record in Preliminary Group D. After lay-up by Emese Vida, teams were tied at 56-56 with 48 seconds remaining in regular time. Slovakia had two possessions for rest of the way and Serbia had one, but they were not able to score and game went to OT. Slovakia jumped to 64-61 with 1:40 to go, but Jaksic replied with a triple. Barbora Balintova (176-G-94) made a basket for Slovakia, Natasa Kovacevic (187-F-94) scored on FT for Serbia and Balintova also scored one at the other side. There was 15 seconds remaining and Serbia had the last possession. Kovacevic received the ball, pulled up from behind the arc and made a winning triple for her team. Kovacevic stepped up with 20 points and 7 rebounds, and Ivana Brajkovic (195-C-93) helped Serbia with 14 points, plus 5 rebs. Tijana Dijan (174-PG-92) added 10 pts. In defeat, Martina Kissova (185-F-93) and Barbora Balintova posted 13 points each. Angelika Oravcova (175-PG-92) had one point less. Serbia will take on UK today, while Slovakia will play against Russia.


Division A: Day Two in Debrecin - by Eurobasket News

Group A
Latvia - Belarus 67-64
Latvia grabbed its first win at U20 EuroBasket in Debrecin. They outplayed Belarus 67-64 improving to 1-1 record in Group A. Thanks to this victory Latvia is now very close to reach the second stage. Belarus is difficult situation after its second straight loss at this event. Latvia was 58-48 up with 7:28 remaining in the game, but Belarus closed the gap to 66-64 with 1:07 to go. However, Belarus missed a lay-up and connected two unsuccessful shots from behind the arc, while Dukate made one free throw for Latvia for rest of the way. Quarters: 17-21, 16-9, 20-15, 14-19. Latvia got double-double of 18 points and 11 rebounds from Dita Rozenberga (181-F-92). Paula Tomsone (193-C-94) had 15 points and 9 rebounds, while Ance Aizsila (175-G-94) added 12 pts to this win. Maryia Papova (186-PF-94) had amazing game at the other side with 22 points and 17 rebounds (valuation 26, MVP). Darya Lipinskaya (180-SG-93) and Maryna Ivashchanka (190-C-93) (6 rebs) scored 13 and 10 points respectively. Latvia will meet Spain in the last day of the Preliminary Round in Debrecin. Belarus will take on Lithuania.

Spain - Lithuania 93-55
Spain jumped to 2-0 record in Group A of U20 EuroBasket in Debrecin. The defending champion blasted Lithuania on Friday 93-55 getting 18 points and 6 rebounds from Queralt Casas (180-G-92). Marta Claret (185-C-92) and Elena Diaz (188-C-92) helped with 16 points each. Spain took control on its rival from the beginning and never looked back. Quarters: 20-14, 21-13, 25-13, 27-15. Santa Okockyte (176-PG-92) answered with 14 points and 5 rebounds in defeat. Their second scorer was Kriste Druskyte (179-G/F-92) with 11 points and Laura Svaryte (190-C/F-92) added 11. Lithuania dropped to 1-1 in this pool. Spain already booked a spot for the next stage, while Lithuania also has a nice chance to do it. In the last day of the Preliminary Round, Spain will meet Latvia. Lithuania will play against Belarus and it will be do-or-die game for both teams.

Group B
Italy - Sweden 59-61
Sweden secured a ticket for the next stage at U20 EuroBasket in Debrecin. They grabbed 61-59 thriller win against Italy for 2-0 record in Group A. At the other side, Italy dropped to 0-2, but still has a chance to advance. Italy had 59-57 lead with 45 seconds remaining in the game. Binta Drammeh (180-F-92) made a basket with foul for 60-59 turn and Dotto missed a lay-up for Italy after that. Drammeh was sent to the line with 7 seconds to go and she made first, but missed her second free throw. Italy had the possession, but Galbiati committed a turnover. Farhiya Abdi (188-F-92) (7 rebs) and Drammeh (5 rebs) led the winners with 17 points each. Amanda Zahui (190-C-93) helped with 10 points ad 10 rebounds. In defeat, Caterina Dotto (167-PG-93) was way better than the others with 18 points and 7 rebounds. Stella Panella (178-F-93) scored 9, while Giovanna Pertile (182-F-92) and Irene Cigliani (177-F-92) stopped to 8 points each. Quarters: Italy - Sweden 8-15, 24-17, 7-12, 20-17. Sweden will meet Holland on Saturday, while Italy will take on Poland in do-or-die game.

Poland - Holland 80-66
Poland cruised past Holland on Friday 80-66 for the first win at U20 EuroBasket in Debrecin. Both teams have 1-1 record now in Group B and both have a chance to reach the next stage. Everything will be clear on Saturday. Poland did a great job in the first half making 15-point lead. Holland cut the margin to 10 pts with one quarter left, but Poland shined in the last ten minutes to take the comfortable win against its rival. Magdalena Zietara (170-G/F-92) was a key player in victory with 26 points. Dorota Mistygacz (183-F/C-92) also was great adding 19 points and 9 rebs, while Agata Szczepanik (194-F/C-92) helped her team with 13 points and 6 rebs. In Holland, Zera Butter (179-G-92) scored 23 points and Marlou De Kleijn (182-F-92, agency: Regeneracom Sports) added 22 points, plus 5 rebounds. Sonja Kuijt (179-F-93) stopped to 9 pts in this game. Poland will play against Italy on Saturday, while Holland will meet Sweden, who already secured a ticket for the next stage.
Group C
France - Ukraine 66-75
Ukraine did a great job against France on Friday in Debrecin. Ukraine celebrated 75-66 victory joining the defeated team with 1-1 record in Group C. Both teams have a chance to reach the second stage of U20 EuroBasket, but everything will be known on Saturday night. Ukraine got 25 points and 7 rebounds from Alina Iagupova (186-G-92, agency: LBM Management), who was the MVP of this game with valuation 27. Anna Kiriyenko (190-C-93) had 17 points and 5 rebounds, while Lyudmyla Naumenko (184-F-93) helped her team with 8 points and 5 rebs. In defeat, Christelle Diallo (193-C-93) and Sara Chevaugeon (177-G-93) netted 18 and 15 points each. Their third scorer was Adja Konteh (173-G/F-92) with only 7 points. Ukraine won three periods of this game, while only the last one belonged to France: 18-17, 24-16, 17-15, 16-18. Ukraine will meet last ranked Portugal on Saturday. France will play against undefeated Turkey.

Turkey - Portugal 62-52
Turkey celebrated its second straight win at U20 EuroBasket in Debrecin. They downed Portugal 62-52 and already secured a ticket for the next stage. Turkey (2-0) now has a nice chance to win Group A, while at the other side Portugal fell to 0-2 and will have to beat Ukraine on Saturday in do-or-die game. Turkey made 9-point lead until the halftime having no troubles to keep it for rest of the way, despite Portugal came to minus 6 once in Q3. Quarters: 10-10, 22-13, 21-22, 9-7. Olcay Cakir (180-PG-93) (5 rebs) and Ayse Cora (175-G/F-93) led the winners with 12 points each. Gizem Basaran (194-C-92) secured a nice help adding 9 points and 7 boards. In the loosing squad, Daniela Domingues (176-G/F-92) (6 rebs) and Ines Faustino (170-G-92) netted 12 points each. Saturday is the last day of the Preliminary Round in Debrecin. As mentioned above, Portugal will play against Ukraine in do-or-die game. Turkey's rival will be France and that game is also very important for both teams as wins will be transferred to the next stage.

Group D
Serbia - United Kingdom 71-59
Serbia celebrated its second straight win at U20 EuroBasket in Debrecin. After thriller victory in Day One, Serbia cruised past United Kingdom on Friday 71-59 and booked a ticket for the next stage. At the other side, UK dropped to 0-2 in Group D. They will have to beat Slovakia in do-or-die game on Saturday. Snezana Colic (178-G-92) was the leading player in Serbia with 24 points. Ivana Brajkovic (195-C-93) helped with 11 points and 10 rebounds, while hero from Day One Natasa Kovacevic (187-F-94) added 10 pts in this meeting. Jessica Hurd (182-F-92) shined in defeat with 25 points and 9 boards. Their second scorer was Erin McGarrachan (182-G-92) with 14 points (7 rebs). Serbia was up by 7 at the halftime, but UK cut the margin to 5 pts with ten minutes to go. Serbia shined offensively in the last quarter (21-14) to take the victory in this meeting. In the last day of the Preliminary Round, Serbia will play against Russia and will try to win Group D with perfect 3-0 record. As mentioned above, UK will take on Slovakia.

Russia - Slovakia 61-64
Slovakia celebrated its first victory at U20 EuroBasket in Debrecin. They had impressive first half against Russia, but at the end escaped with tiny 3-point win. Slovakia was up by 15 at the HT and Russia cut the margin to 11 at the end of Q3. Russia took control on its rival at the beginning of the last period and after six minutes made 52-55 turn. However, Slovakia closed this game with 12-6 run to grab very valuable victory. Zofia Hruscakova (190-C-95) (8 rebs) and Marta Palenikova (184-G/F-92) (5 rebs) led Slovakia with 15 points each. Marianna Draganovska (190-F/C-93) followed them with 11 points. In Russia, Ksenia Tikhonenko (190-F/C-93, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav) was better than the others with 13 points and 5 rebounds, while Darya Namok (179-G-93) and Svetlana Efimova (187-F-92) stopped to 11 points each. In the last day of the Preliminary Round, Slovakia will meet last ranked UK. Russia will play against undefeated Serbia.


*****************************************************
  FIBA AMERICAS U18   

Standings (Women)

Standings
Group A
1. Canada5-1
2. Chile2-1
3. Mexico1-5
4. Costa Rica.0-3
Group B
1. USA6-0
2. Brazil5-1
3. Argentina3-3
4. P.Rico1-5

Preliminary Round: Round 3

A

Aug. 17: COL - USA 36-87
Aug. 17: DOM - ARG 26-51

B

Aug. 17: PUR - BRA 53-66
Aug. 17: MEX - CAN 40-61

Semi-Finals: Round 4

Semis

Aug. 18: BRA - ARG
Aug. 18: USA - CAN

Places 5-8

Aug. 18: COL - MEX
Aug. 18: PUR - DOM


Day Two in Gurabo - by Eurobasket News

Group A
USA - Argentina 68-28
USA celebrated second straight win at U18 FIBA Americas championship in Gurabo. This time the defending champion smashed Argentina 68-28 for 2-0 record in Group A. USA will meet Colombia tomorrow and will try to win this pool with perfect score. At the other side, Argentina dropped to 1-1, but still has a nice chance to reach the Semifinals. USA took control on its rival from the very beginning and never looked back after that. Quarters: 18-6, 17-4, 17-9, 16-9. Breanna Stewart (191-F/C-94) (6'3''-F/C-94) led the winners with double-double of 17 points and 12 rebounds. Michaela Mabrey (5'9''-G-94) scored 13 points and Morgan Tuck (6'2''-F-94) added one less. At the other side, Argentina did not have anyone with 5 or more points. Leon Zulema Garcia (6'1''-C-94), Macarena Jerez (5'4''-PG-94) and Sofia Chelini (5'6''-PG-95) stopped 4 pts each. As mentioned above, in the last day of the Preliminary Round USA will meet Colombia. Argentina's rival will be Dominican Republic.

Colombia - Dominican Republic 47-40
Colombia grabbed its first victory at U18 FIBA Americas in Gurabo. They handed 47-40 loss to Dominican Republic for 1-1 record in Group A. However, it is hard to believe that Colombia will be able to reach the Semifinals as they will have to beat powerful USA today. At the other side, Dominican Republic stays winless after two games, but still has a chance to advance. Everything will be clear later today. Maria Tapias (95) led the winners with 23 points and 6 rebounds, and Sara Sosa (95) added 11 pts, 8 boards and 6 assists. Their third scorer was Laura Ramirez (94) with 6 points (7 rebs). In Dominican Republic, Yamel Abreu (95) (12 rebs) and Frabel Feliz (94) (7 rebs) posted 11 points each, while Cheisy Hernandez (94) collected 8 points and 10 boards. Quarters: 12-6, 10-7, 5-14, 20-13. Dominican Republic will have to beat Argentina today with at least with 9-point difference and to hope that USA will beat Colombia.

Group B
Mexico - Brazil 31-62
Brazil had no troubles to beat Mexico in Day Two of U18 FIBA Americas championship in Gurabo. It was a 62-31 victory and Brazil jumped to 2-0 record in Group B. They have a great chance to reach the Semifinals. At the other side, Mexico (0-2) is in very difficult situation as they slipped to 0-2. Brazil made 9-point lead already in the first quarter and jumped to plus 18 at the halftime. Nothing has changed after that as Brazil kept increasing its lead for rest of the way. Maria Ferreira (188-F-94) scored 13 pts and pulled down 8 rebounds in victory, and Estela Gregorio (177-G-94) posted 11 points. Martha Silva (185-C-94) had 8 pts and 5 rebounds. Mexico's best player was Maria Faz (95) with 11 points and 13 rebounds, while Maria Morales (95) stopped to 7 pts. Brazil will play against Puerto Rico today and Mexico will meet Canada. All Semifinals tickets are still available.

Canada - Puerto Rico 58-43
Very valuable win for Canada against the host of U18 FIBA Americas championship. Canada handed 58-43 loss to Puerto Rico joining them with 1-1 record in Group B. Both teams have a chance to reach the Semifinals, but everything will be clear later today. Third quarter was the crucial one in this meeting. Teams were tied at 31-31 at the HT and Canada exploded with 19-7 for the next ten minutes, after what Puerto Rico was not able to reply. Quarters: 18-17, 13-14, 19-7, 8-5. Paige Crozon (186-F-94) paced Canada with 18 points and 6 rebounds. Michelle Hudyn (188-F) had 10 points and 10 rebs, while Samantha Cooper (185-G/F) also scored 10 pts, but to go with 6 boards. Krystal Luciano (96) collected 11 points and 9 rebs in defeat. Sidney Santos (95) (5 rebs) and Paola Crespo (96) posted 6 pts each. Today is the last day of the Preliminary Round in Gurabo. Canada will play against Mexico and Puerto Rico will take on top-ranked Brazil.


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


U20 Ukraine takes valuable win against U20 France, 75-66 - by Eurobasket News

U20 FRANCE - U20 UKRAINE 66-75

Ukraine did a great job against France on Friday in Debrecin. Ukraine celebrated 75-66 victory joining the defeated team with 1-1 record in Group C. Both teams have a chance to reach the second stage of U20 EuroBasket, but everything will be known on Saturday night. Ukraine got 25 points and 7 rebounds from Alina Iagupova (186-G-92, agency: LBM Management), who was the MVP of this game with valuation 27. Anna Kiriyenko (190-C-93) had 17 points and 5 rebounds, while Lyudmyla Naumenko (184-F-93) helped her team with 8 points and 5 rebs. In defeat, Christelle Diallo (193-C-93) and Sara Chevaugeon (177-G-93) netted 18 and 15 points each. Their third scorer was Adja Konteh (173-G/F-92) with only 7 points. Ukraine won three periods of this game, while only the last one belonged to France: 18-17, 24-16, 17-15, 16-18. Ukraine will meet last ranked Portugal on Saturday. France will play against undefeated Turkey.

France: Christelle Diallo 18, Sara Chevaugeon 15, Adja Konteh 7
Ukraine: Alina Iagupova 25+7 boards, Anna Kiriyenko 17+5 boards, Lyudmyla Naumenko 8+5 boards


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  GERMANY   


U20 Germany too strong for U20 Switzerland, 91-52 - by Eurobasket News

U20 SWITZERLAND - U20 GERMANY 52-91

Germany had another great game in Klatovy. This time they blasted Switzerland 91-52 for perfect 2-0 record at U20 EuroBasket Division B. At the other side, it was the first appearance for Switzerland, who was free in Day One. Germany took control on its rival from the very beginning and never looked back. Quarters: 28-14, 24-16, 14-12, 25-10. Finja Schaake (179-F-92) led her team in scoring with 21 points, while Christina Schnorr (187-F/C-92) helped with 12 points and 9 rebounds. Laura Hebecker (181-F-93) added 11 pts and 6 boards. In Switzerland, Rosalie Grobet (185-F/C-92) had 9 points and Dorothee Studer (169-G-92) added one less. Germany will take a rest on Saturday. Switzerland will play against Greece.

Switzerland: Rosalie Grobet 9, Dorothee Studer 8
Germany: Finja Schaake 21, Christina Schnorr 12+9 boards, Laura Hebecker 11+6 boards


U20 Germany has no mercy for U20 Romania in Klatovy - by Eurobasket News

U20 GERMANY - U20 ROMANIA 95-66

Germany demonstrated its power in Day One of U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. They destroyed Romania with huge 95-66 for 1-0 record. Nine teams participate at this event and all of them are placed to the same group. Germany took control on its rival from the beginning and never looked back. Quarters: 29-15, 31-10, 23-20, 12-21. Finja Schaake (179-F-92) shined in victory with 21 points, while Judith Schmidt (186-F/C-92) and Sonja Greinacher (192-F/C-92, college: Gonzaga) followed her with 15 points each. Laura Hebecker (181-F-93) added 11 points, plus 8 boards. In defeat, Cristina Bigica (182-G/F-92) was better than the others with 20 points and 5 boards. Alexandra Ionescu (175-PG-92) (5 rebs) and Sonia Ursu (175-SG-93) (5 rebs) posted 13 and 12 points respectively. Germany will meet Switzerland today. Romania will take on Greece. Three best teams from this event will advance to Division A.

Germany: Finja Schaake 21, Judith Schmidt 15, Sonja Greinacher 15, Laura Hebecker 11+8 boards
Romania: Cristina Bigica 20+5 boards, Alexandra Ionescu 13+5 boards, Sonia Ursu 12+5 boards


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  GREECE   


U20 Greece keeps U20 Romania winless in Klatovy - by Eurobasket News

U20 ROMANIA - U20 GREECE 35-67

Greece had no troubles to beat Romania 67-35 in Day Two of U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. After this victory Greece jumped to 2-0 record at this event. At the same time, Romania faced with the second straight loss. Greece was up by 3 at the halftime, but they smashed its rival for rest of the game. Greece scored 42 points for the next two periods, while they limited Romania to just 7+6. Grigoria Pateraki (185-PF-93) scored 12 points for her country and Artemis Spanou (184-F-93) added 11 points, plus 13 rebs. Georgia Kantara (176-SG-93) followed with 10 points and 5 rebs. In defeat, Cristina Bigica (182-G/F-92) was better than the others with 12 points and 6 rebounds. Sonia Ursu (175-SG-93) was their second scorer with 10 points (8 rebs). Greece will play against Switzerland on Saturday, while Romania will meet Belgium.

Romania: Cristina Bigica 12+6 boards, Sonia Ursu 10+8 boards
Greece: Grigoria Pateraki 12, Artemis Spanou 11+13 boards, Georgia Kantara 10+5 boards


Spanou and Chatzigiakoumi lead U20 Greece to first win in Klatovy - by Eurobasket News

U20 GREECE - U20 BULGARIA 55-48

Greece was better than Bulgaria on Thursday 55-48. It was the opening day of U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. Greece started with 1-0 and hopes to take one of the medals at this event. It will be enough for Division A promotion. Greece was up by 12 at the halftime, but Bulgaria exploded after the breather cutting the margin to 3 points with one quarter to go. Greece exploded with 11-2 run in the next few minutes to secure the victory in this game. Artemis Spanou (184-F-93) top-scored in Greece with 12 points and she also pulled down 13 rebounds, while Anthoula Chatzigiakoumi (187-F-92) was the MVP of this game with 11 points and 18 rebs (valuation 21). Vasiliki Tarla (181-SF-94) also helped her country with 11 pts. In defeat, Mariya Svetoslavova (179-F/G-93) and Viktoriya Stoycheva (171-PG-92) posted 11 points each. Hristina Tyutyundzhieva (189-C-93) added two points less. Greece will play against Romania today. Bulgaria will take on Belgium.

Greece: Artemis Spanou 12+13 boards, Anthoula Chatzigiakoumi 11+18 boards, Vasiliki Tarla 11
Bulgaria: Mariya Svetoslavova 11, Viktoriya Stoycheva 11, Hristina Tyutyundzhieva 9


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  HOLLAND   


Holland wins over Turkey 67-60 to start U17 FIBA World Championship - by Eurobasket News

U17 TURKEY - U17 HOLLAND 60-67

Holland celebrated 67-60 victory against Turkey in Day One in Amsterdam. The host of U17 FIBA World Championship had very good first half of the game and later managed to keep the lead for rest of the way. Both teams are placed to Preliminary Group B, together with Spain, Japan, Australia and Brazil. Four teams will advance to the Quarterfinals. Isabella Slim (181-F-95) was a key player for the hosts with 21 points and 5 rebounds. Britt Zappeij (184-C-95) followed her with 13 points and 7 rebounds, while Emese Hof (188-C-96) added 10 pts and 8 boards. In Turkey, Hulya Coklar (188-C-95) had a great game with 22 points and 14 rebs. She was the MVP of this meeting with valuation 30. Second scorer in Turkey was Busra Akbas (171-PG-95) with 19 points (7 rebs). Quarters: 17-11, 20-16, 13-16, 17-17. Holland will try to beat Japan on Saturday for the second straight win. Turkey will play against Spain.

Turkey: Hulya Coklar 22+14 boards, Busra Akbas 19+7 boards
Holland: Isabella Slim 21+5 boards, Britt Zappeij 13+7 boards, Emese Hof 10+8 boards


U20 Poland joins U20 Holland with 1-1 record in Group B - by Eurobasket News

U20 POLAND - U20 HOLLAND 80-66

Poland cruised past Holland on Friday 80-66 for the first win at U20 EuroBasket in Debrecin. Both teams have 1-1 record now in Group B and both have a chance to reach the next stage. Everything will be clear on Saturday. Poland did a great job in the first half making 15-point lead. Holland cut the margin to 10 pts with one quarter left, but Poland shined in the last ten minutes to take the comfortable win against its rival. Magdalena Zietara (170-G/F-92) was a key player in victory with 26 points. Dorota Mistygacz (183-F/C-92) also was great adding 19 points and 9 rebs, while Agata Szczepanik (194-F/C-92) helped her team with 13 points and 6 rebs. In Holland, Zera Butter (179-G-92) scored 23 points and Marlou De Kleijn (182-F-92, agency: Regeneracom Sports) added 22 points, plus 5 rebounds. Sonja Kuijt (179-F-93) stopped to 9 pts in this game. Poland will play against Italy on Saturday, while Holland will meet Sweden, who already secured a ticket for the next stage.

Poland: Magdalena Zietara 26, Dorota Mistygacz 19+9 boards, Agata Szczepanik 13+6 boards
Holland: Zera Butter 23, Marlou De Kleijn 22+5 boards, Sonja Kuijt 9


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  HUNGARY   


Diana Furesz signed to newcomer PTE-PEAC! - by Adam Patonay

The hungarian federation announced and confirmed that the smaller and absolute independent club in Pecs, PEAC will play in A Division and Adriatic League, they signed Zeljko Djokic for head coach and the second big name is Diana Furesz (174-G-84, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) in their roster.
The former national team player combo guard played the last two seasons in Sopron, she played in Euroleague, won championship and hungarian cup. Seh averaged 9.2 points and 2.9 assits per game in hungarian league and was starter guard of Sopron. Most probably she'll be one of the key players for Coach Djokic and PEAC on the next season.


Great finish lifts Hungary to 70-64 win over Israel at the start of U20 EuroBasket Division B - by Eurobasket News

U20 ISRAEL - U20 HUNGARY 64-70

Hungary registered 70-64 win against Israel in Day One of U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. There is only one group with nine teams at this event. The medal winners will be promoted to Division A. Israel had 52-49 lead with 5:52 remaining in the game, but than Hungary scored 21 points for rest of the way at the same time limiting its rival to 12 pts. That was enough for the victory. Krisztina Velkey (180-G/F-92) led Hungary with 16 points and 7 rebounds. Zsofia Licskai (191-C/F-93) and Flora Szabo (188-PF-92) netted 13 and 12 points respectively. In Israel, Bar Gilinski (185-PF-92) was way better than the others with 25 points and 9 boards. Their second scorer was Avigiel Cohen (182-G-92) with 10 pts. Hungary will take a rest today. Israel's rival will be host - Czech Republic.

Israel: Bar Gilinski 25+9 boards, Avigiel Cohen 10
Hungary: Krisztina Velkey 16+7 boards, Zsofia Licskai 13, Flora Szabo 12


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  ISRAEL   


Great finish lifts Hungary to 70-64 win over Israel at the start of U20 EuroBasket Division B - by Eurobasket News

U20 ISRAEL - U20 HUNGARY 64-70

Hungary registered 70-64 win against Israel in Day One of U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. There is only one group with nine teams at this event. The medal winners will be promoted to Division A. Israel had 52-49 lead with 5:52 remaining in the game, but than Hungary scored 21 points for rest of the way at the same time limiting its rival to 12 pts. That was enough for the victory. Krisztina Velkey (180-G/F-92) led Hungary with 16 points and 7 rebounds. Zsofia Licskai (191-C/F-93) and Flora Szabo (188-PF-92) netted 13 and 12 points respectively. In Israel, Bar Gilinski (185-PF-92) was way better than the others with 25 points and 9 boards. Their second scorer was Avigiel Cohen (182-G-92) with 10 pts. Hungary will take a rest today. Israel's rival will be host - Czech Republic.

Israel: Bar Gilinski 25+9 boards, Avigiel Cohen 10
Hungary: Krisztina Velkey 16+7 boards, Zsofia Licskai 13, Flora Szabo 12


Second straight win for U20 Czech Republic in Klatovy - by Eurobasket News

U20 CZECH REPUBLIC - U20 ISRAEL 77-60

Second straight win for the host of U20 EuroBasket Division B. Czech Republic downed Israel 77-60 on Friday for 2-0 record at this event. The hosts exploded in the second half to register comfortable win in this meeting. Quarters: 22-15, 10-19, 21-10, 24-16. Karolina Elhotova (182-F-92) shined in victory with 16 points and 5 rebounds, while Barbora Kasparkova (181-F/C-92) also was great adding 15 points and 11 rebs. Renata Pudlakova (173-PG-92) helped with 12 points. In the loosing squad, Bar Gilinski (185-PF-92) shined with 21 points and 14 boards. The second scorer in Israel was Thea Lemberger (175-G-92) with 15 points and Nof Kedem (170-SG-94) stopped to 9. Israel dropped to 0-2. Their next rival will be Bulgaria. Czech Republic will play against Hungary on Saturday.

Czech Republic: Karolina Elhotova 16+5 boards, Barbora Kasparkova 15+11 boards, Renata Pudlakova 12
Israel: Bar Gilinski 21+14 boards, Thea Lemberger 15, Nof Kedem 9


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  ITALY   


Italy downs Canada 68-55 in Day One of U17 FIBA World Championship - by Eurobasket News

U17 CANADA - U17 ITALY 55-68

Italy opened U17 FIBA World Championship with victory. They downed Canada on Friday 68-55 for 1-0 record in Preliminary Group A. There are six teams in this pool and four of them will advance to the Quarterfinals. Third quarter was the crucial one in this meeting. Italy was up by 5 at the halftime and they totally took control on its rival after the breather making 18-7 in Q3. It means that Italy jumped to plus 16 and last period was just the formality. Antonia Peresson (177-PG-95) scored 18 points for the winners and Elisa Penna (186-F-95) added 16 points, plus 6 boards. Martina Kacerik (179-SG-96) added 15 pts. Kia Nurse (180-PG-96) shined in loss with 20 points. Their second scorer was Emily Potter (196-C/F-95) with 8 points and she grabbed 5 rebounds beside that. Canada will meet USA on Saturday, while Italy will play against Mali.

Canada: Kia Nurse 20, Emily Potter 8+5 boards
Italy: Antonia Peresson 18, Elisa Penna 16+6 boards, Martina Kacerik 15


U20 Sweden grabs 61-59 thriller win over U20 Italy, secures ticket for the second stage - by Eurobasket News

U20 ITALY - U20 SWEDEN 59-61

Sweden secured a ticket for the next stage at U20 EuroBasket in Debrecin. They grabbed 61-59 thriller win against Italy for 2-0 record in Group A. At the other side, Italy dropped to 0-2, but still has a chance to advance. Italy had 59-57 lead with 45 seconds remaining in the game. Binta Drammeh (180-F-92) made a basket with foul for 60-59 turn and Dotto missed a lay-up for Italy after that. Drammeh was sent to the line with 7 seconds to go and she made first, but missed her second free throw. Italy had the possession, but Galbiati committed a turnover. Farhiya Abdi (188-F-92) (7 rebs) and Drammeh (5 rebs) led the winners with 17 points each. Amanda Zahui (190-C-93) helped with 10 points ad 10 rebounds. In defeat, Caterina Dotto (167-PG-93) was way better than the others with 18 points and 7 rebounds. Stella Panella (178-F-93) scored 9, while Giovanna Pertile (182-F-92) and Irene Cigliani (177-F-92) stopped to 8 points each. Quarters: Italy - Sweden 8-15, 24-17, 7-12, 20-17. Sweden will meet Holland on Saturday, while Italy will take on Poland in do-or-die game.

Italy: Caterina Dotto 18+7 boards, Stella Panella 9, Giovanna Pertile 8, Irene Cigliani 8
Sweden: Farhiya Abdi 17+7 boards, Binta Drammeh 17+5 boards, Amanda Zahui 10+10 bards


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  JAPAN   


Japan hands 92-71 loss to Brazil at the start of U17 FIBA World Championship - by Eurobasket News

U17 JAPAN - U17 BRAZIL 92-71

Japan exploded in the last ten minutes of the game against Brazil to register comfortable 21-point win. Both teams are placed to Preliminary Group B of U17 FIBA World Championship in Amsterdam. Their rivals are Spain, Holland, Turkey and Australia. Four teams will book a ticket to the Quarterfinals. Japan had minimum lead after first period and increased it to 10 until the halftime (47-37). Brazil slightly improved after that, but Japan intensified defense in Q4 limiting its rival to 12 pts for ten minutes, while at the other side the drained 26 points leaving Brazil without the chance. Yunika Nakamura (95) top-scored in victory with 21 points and she pulled down 6 rebounds. Natsumi Nagai (95) had 18 points and 5 rebs, while MVP of this game was Evelyn Mawuli (180-F/C-95) with double-double of 15 points and 12 rebs (valuation 21). Izabella Sangalli (181-F-95) answered with 23 points and 5 rebounds for Brazil, whose second scorer was Kananda Ribeiro (183-F/C-96) with 11 pts (5 rebs). Carla Silva Lucchini (95) was limited to 10 points and 5 rebs for 32 minutes on the court. Brazil will try to beat Australia tomorrow. Japan will meet host of this event - Holland.

Japan: Yunika Nakamura 21+6 boards, Natsumi Nagai 18+5 boards, Evelyn Mawuli 15+12 boards
Brazil: Izabella Sangalli 23+5 boards, Kananda Ribeiro 11+5 boards, Carla Silva Lucchini 10+5 boards


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  LATVIA   


U20 Latvia escapes with 67-64 win against U20 Belarus - by Eurobasket News

U20 LATVIA - U20 BELARUS 67-64

Latvia grabbed its first win at U20 EuroBasket in Debrecin. They outplayed Belarus 67-64 improving to 1-1 record in Group A. Thanks to this victory Latvia is now very close to reach the second stage. Belarus is difficult situation after its second straight loss at this event. Latvia was 58-48 up with 7:28 remaining in the game, but Belarus closed the gap to 66-64 with 1:07 to go. However, Belarus missed a lay-up and connected two unsuccessful shots from behind the arc, while Dukate made one free throw for Latvia for rest of the way. Quarters: 17-21, 16-9, 20-15, 14-19. Latvia got double-double of 18 points and 11 rebounds from Dita Rozenberga (181-F-92). Paula Tomsone (193-C-94) had 15 points and 9 rebounds, while Ance Aizsila (175-G-94) added 12 pts to this win. Maryia Papova (186-PF-94) had amazing game at the other side with 22 points and 17 rebounds (valuation 26, MVP). Darya Lipinskaya (180-SG-93) and Maryna Ivashchanka (190-C-93) (6 rebs) scored 13 and 10 points respectively. Latvia will meet Spain in the last day of the Preliminary Round in Debrecin. Belarus will take on Lithuania.

Latvia: Dita Rozenberga 18+11 boards, Paula Tomsone 15+9 boards, Ance Aizsila 12
Belarus: Maryia Papova 22+17 boards, Darya Lipinskaya 13, Maryna Ivashchanka 10+6 boards


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  LITHUANIA   


Defending champion U20 Spain jumps to 2-0 in Debrecin - by Eurobasket News

U20 SPAIN - U20 LITHUANIA 93-55

Spain jumped to 2-0 record in Group A of U20 EuroBasket in Debrecin. The defending champion blasted Lithuania on Friday 93-55 getting 18 points and 6 rebounds from Queralt Casas (180-G-92). Marta Claret (185-C-92) and Elena Diaz (188-C-92) helped with 16 points each. Spain took control on its rival from the beginning and never looked back. Quarters: 20-14, 21-13, 25-13, 27-15. Santa Okockyte (176-PG-92) answered with 14 points and 5 rebounds in defeat. Their second scorer was Kriste Druskyte (179-G/F-92) with 11 points and Laura Svaryte (190-C/F-92) added 11. Lithuania dropped to 1-1 in this pool. Spain already booked a spot for the next stage, while Lithuania also has a nice chance to do it. In the last day of the Preliminary Round, Spain will meet Latvia. Lithuania will play against Belarus and it will be do-or-die game for both teams.

Spain: Queralt Casas 18+6 boards, Marta Claret 16, Elena Diaz 16
Lithuania: Santa Okockyte 14+5 boards, Kriste Druskyte 11, Laura Svaryte 11


Kibirkstis-Tiche-IKI gets bigger with Celeste Trahan - by Eurobasket News

Kibirkstis-Tiche-IKI officially announced signing of Celeste Trahan (184-C-85, agency: LBM Management, college: Elizabeth City) for the upcoming season. The team will compete in EuroCup and it will be the only representative from Lithuania. Traham heads to Kibirkstis-Tiche-IKI from BCF Elfic Fribourg Basket, where she spent last three seasons. She was named Eurobasket.com All-Swiss LNA Player of the Year three times. A year ago Traham led her team to LNA title. Last season she had impressive 29.1 ppg, 15.5 rpg, 2 spg and 1.4 bpg for 28 games. Traham was top scorer and top rebounder of the competition. Before Fribourg, Celeste Trahan spent one year with German TV Saarlouis Royals. There she had 15.2 ppg and 9.1 rpg for 31 games in 2008/09 season. Traham graduated at Elizabeth City State University (NCAA2) in 2008.


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  MALI   


Belgium starts U17 FIBA World Championship in style - by Eurobasket News

U17 MALI - U17 BELGIUM 45-81

Belgium had a joyful Day One in Amsterdam. They destroyed Mali 81-45 in the opening game of U17 FIBA World Championship for 1-0 record in Preliminary Group A. Participants of this pool are also Canada, Italy, South Korea and defending champion USA. Four teams will advance to the Quarterfinals. Belgium took control on its rival from the very beginning and never looked back. They had 10-point lead after ten minutes and jumped to plus 26 until the halftime. Nothing has changed after the breather and Belgium celebrated huge win at the end. Hind Ben Abdelkader (173-SG-95) was their leading player with 25 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. Celine Lemmens (182-PF-95) scored 11 points and Kyara Linskens (191-C-96) followed with 9 pts, plus 8 boards. In Mali, Mariam Maiga (169-G-96) and Aissata Fomba (175-G-95) (8 rebs) were better than the others with 14 and 12 pts respectively. Djeneba N'Diaye (165-PG-97) had 9 pts. On Saturday, Belgium will play against South Korea. Mali's rival will be Italy.

Mali: Mariam Maiga 14, Aissata Fomba 12+8 boards, Djeneba N'Diaye 9
Belgium: Hind Ben Abdelkader 25+7 boards+5 as, Celine Lemmens 11, Kyara Linskens 9+8 boards


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  MEXICO   


U18 Brazil too strong for U18 Mexico in Gurabo - by Eurobasket News

U18 Mexico - U18 Brazil 31-62

Brazil had no troubles to beat Mexico in Day Two of U18 FIBA Americas championship in Gurabo. It was a 62-31 victory and Brazil jumped to 2-0 record in Group B. They have a great chance to reach the Semifinals. At the other side, Mexico (0-2) is in very difficult situation as they slipped to 0-2. Brazil made 9-point lead already in the first quarter and jumped to plus 18 at the halftime. Nothing has changed after that as Brazil kept increasing its lead for rest of the way. Maria Ferreira (188-F-94) scored 13 pts and pulled down 8 rebounds in victory, and Estela Gregorio (177-G-94) posted 11 points. Martha Silva (185-C-94) had 8 pts and 5 rebounds. Mexico's best player was Maria Faz (95) with 11 points and 13 rebounds, while Maria Morales (95) stopped to 7 pts. Brazil will play against Puerto Rico today and Mexico will meet Canada. All Semifinals tickets are still available.

Mexico: Maria Faz 11+13 boards, Maria Morales 7
Brazil: Maria Ferreira 13+8 boards, Estela Gregorio 11, Martha Silva 8+5 boards


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  NCAA1   


U18 USA jumps to 2-0 in Gurabo - by Eurobasket News

U18 USA - U18 ARGENTINA 68-28

USA celebrated second straight win at U18 FIBA Americas championship in Gurabo. This time the defending champion smashed Argentina 68-28 for 2-0 record in Group A. USA will meet Colombia tomorrow and will try to win this pool with perfect score. At the other side, Argentina dropped to 1-1, but still has a nice chance to reach the Semifinals. USA took control on its rival from the very beginning and never looked back after that. Quarters: 18-6, 17-4, 17-9, 16-9. Breanna Stewart (6'3''-F/C-94) led the winners with double-double of 17 points and 12 rebounds. Michaela Mabrey (5'9''-G-94) scored 13 points and Morgan Tuck (6'2''-F-94) added one less. At the other side, Argentina did not have anyone with 5 or more points. Leon Zulema Garcia (6'1''-C-94), Macarena Jerez (5'4''-PG-94) and Sofia Chelini (5'6''-PG-95) stopped 4 pts each. As mentioned above, in the last day of the Preliminary Round USA will meet Colombia. Argentina's rival will be Dominican Republic.

USA: Breanna Stewart 17+12 boards, Michaela Mabrey 13, Morgan Tuck 12
Argentina: Leon Zulema Garcia 4, Macarena Jerez 4, Sofia Chelini 4


U17 USA blasts U17 South Korea in high-scoring game, 131-89 - by Eurobasket News

U17 SOUTH KOREA - U17 USA 89-131

USA drained 131 points in the opening day of U17 FIBA World Championship in Amsterdam. The defending champion blasted South Korea 131-89 for 1-0 record in Group A. Italy and Belgium also celebrated today and all three teams now share the first place in this pool. USA made 7-point lead in the first quarter and increased it to 21 until the halftime. USA offense looked wonderful and it seemed they are able to do whatever they want. USA scored only 3 times from behind the arc, while most of their points came from the paint. Quarters: 37-30, 33-19, 27-18, 36-22. Rebecca Greenwell (6'0''-G-95) had 23 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists in this victory. Brianna Turner (6'3''-F-96) followed with 20 points and 10 boards, while Mercedes Russell (6'5''-C-95) added 17 pts and 5 boards. USA grabbed 62 rebounds in this game, while Korea had only 20, what also proves USA dominance under the basket. Kim Heejin (95) scored 18 points for Korea (5 rebs) and An Heji (97) had 11. Korea had three more players with double digits. USA will meet Canada on Saturday and it will be the North American derby. Korea's rival will be Belgium.

South Korea: Kim Heejin 18+5 boards, An Heji 11
USA: Rebecca Greenwell 23+7 boards+7 as, Brianna Turner 20+10 boards, Mercedes Russell 17+5 boards


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  POLAND   


U20 Poland joins U20 Holland with 1-1 record in Group B - by Eurobasket News

U20 POLAND - U20 HOLLAND 80-66

Poland cruised past Holland on Friday 80-66 for the first win at U20 EuroBasket in Debrecin. Both teams have 1-1 record now in Group B and both have a chance to reach the next stage. Everything will be clear on Saturday. Poland did a great job in the first half making 15-point lead. Holland cut the margin to 10 pts with one quarter left, but Poland shined in the last ten minutes to take the comfortable win against its rival. Magdalena Zietara (170-G/F-92) was a key player in victory with 26 points. Dorota Mistygacz (183-F/C-92) also was great adding 19 points and 9 rebs, while Agata Szczepanik (194-F/C-92) helped her team with 13 points and 6 rebs. In Holland, Zera Butter (179-G-92) scored 23 points and Marlou De Kleijn (182-F-92, agency: Regeneracom Sports) added 22 points, plus 5 rebounds. Sonja Kuijt (179-F-93) stopped to 9 pts in this game. Poland will play against Italy on Saturday, while Holland will meet Sweden, who already secured a ticket for the next stage.

Poland: Magdalena Zietara 26, Dorota Mistygacz 19+9 boards, Agata Szczepanik 13+6 boards
Holland: Zera Butter 23, Marlou De Kleijn 22+5 boards, Sonja Kuijt 9


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  PORTUGAL   


U20 Turkey jumps to 2-0 in Debrecin, books ticket for the second stage - by Eurobasket News

U20 TURKEY - U20 PORTUGAL 62-52

Turkey celebrated its second straight win at U20 EuroBasket in Debrecin. They downed Portugal 62-52 and already secured a ticket for the next stage. Turkey (2-0) now has a nice chance to win Group A, while at the other side Portugal fell to 0-2 and will have to beat Ukraine on Saturday in do-or-die game. Turkey made 9-point lead until the halftime having no troubles to keep it for rest of the way, despite Portugal came to minus 6 once in Q3. Quarters: 10-10, 22-13, 21-22, 9-7. Olcay Cakir (180-PG-93) (5 rebs) and Ayse Cora (175-G/F-93) led the winners with 12 points each. Gizem Basaran (194-C-92) secured a nice help adding 9 points and 7 boards. In the loosing squad, Daniela Domingues (176-G/F-92) (6 rebs) and Ines Faustino (170-G-92) netted 12 points each. Saturday is the last day of the Preliminary Round in Debrecin. As mentioned above, Portugal will play against Ukraine in do-or-die game. Turkey's rival will be France and that game is also very important for both teams as wins will be transferred to the next stage.

Turkey: Olcay Cakir 12+5 boards, Ayse Cora 12, Gizem Basaran 9+7 boards
Portugal: Daniela Domingues 12+6 boards, Ines Faustino 12


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  PUERTO RICO   


U18 Canada cruises past U18 Puerto Rico 58-43, joins them with 1-1 - by Eurobasket News

U18 CANADA - U18 PUERTO RICO 58-43

Very valuable win for Canada against the host of U18 FIBA Americas championship. Canada handed 58-43 loss to Puerto Rico joining them with 1-1 record in Group B. Both teams have a chance to reach the Semifinals, but everything will be clear later today. Third quarter was the crucial one in this meeting. Teams were tied at 31-31 at the HT and Canada exploded with 19-7 for the next ten minutes, after what Puerto Rico was not able to reply. Quarters: 18-17, 13-14, 19-7, 8-5. Paige Crozon (186-F-94) paced Canada with 18 points and 6 rebounds. Michelle Hudyn (188-F) had 10 points and 10 rebs, while Samantha Cooper (185-G/F) also scored 10 pts, but to go with 6 boards. Krystal Luciano (96) collected 11 points and 9 rebs in defeat. Sidney Santos (95) (5 rebs) and Paola Crespo (96) posted 6 pts each. Today is the last day of the Preliminary Round in Gurabo. Canada will play against Mexico and Puerto Rico will take on top-ranked Brazil.

Canada: Paige Crozon 18+6 boards, Michelle Hudyn 10+10 boards, Samantha Cooper 10+6 boards
Puerto Rico: Krystal Luciano 11+9 boards, Sidney Santos 6+5 boards, Paola Crespo 6


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  ROMANIA   


U20 Greece keeps U20 Romania winless in Klatovy - by Eurobasket News

U20 ROMANIA - U20 GREECE 35-67

Greece had no troubles to beat Romania 67-35 in Day Two of U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. After this victory Greece jumped to 2-0 record at this event. At the same time, Romania faced with the second straight loss. Greece was up by 3 at the halftime, but they smashed its rival for rest of the game. Greece scored 42 points for the next two periods, while they limited Romania to just 7+6. Grigoria Pateraki (185-PF-93) scored 12 points for her country and Artemis Spanou (184-F-93) added 11 points, plus 13 rebs. Georgia Kantara (176-SG-93) followed with 10 points and 5 rebs. In defeat, Cristina Bigica (182-G/F-92) was better than the others with 12 points and 6 rebounds. Sonia Ursu (175-SG-93) was their second scorer with 10 points (8 rebs). Greece will play against Switzerland on Saturday, while Romania will meet Belgium.

Romania: Cristina Bigica 12+6 boards, Sonia Ursu 10+8 boards
Greece: Grigoria Pateraki 12, Artemis Spanou 11+13 boards, Georgia Kantara 10+5 boards


U20 Germany has no mercy for U20 Romania in Klatovy - by Eurobasket News

U20 GERMANY - U20 ROMANIA 95-66

Germany demonstrated its power in Day One of U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. They destroyed Romania with huge 95-66 for 1-0 record. Nine teams participate at this event and all of them are placed to the same group. Germany took control on its rival from the beginning and never looked back. Quarters: 29-15, 31-10, 23-20, 12-21. Finja Schaake (179-F-92) shined in victory with 21 points, while Judith Schmidt (186-F/C-92) and Sonja Greinacher (192-F/C-92, college: Gonzaga) followed her with 15 points each. Laura Hebecker (181-F-93) added 11 points, plus 8 boards. In defeat, Cristina Bigica (182-G/F-92) was better than the others with 20 points and 5 boards. Alexandra Ionescu (175-PG-92) (5 rebs) and Sonia Ursu (175-SG-93) (5 rebs) posted 13 and 12 points respectively. Germany will meet Switzerland today. Romania will take on Greece. Three best teams from this event will advance to Division A.

Germany: Finja Schaake 21, Judith Schmidt 15, Sonja Greinacher 15, Laura Hebecker 11+8 boards
Romania: Cristina Bigica 20+5 boards, Alexandra Ionescu 13+5 boards, Sonia Ursu 12+5 boards


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  RUSSIA   


U20 Russia celebrates in Day One in Debrecen - by Eurobasket News

U20 UNITED KINGDOM U20 RUSSIA 49-55

Russia opened U20 EuroBasket with victory. They outplayed United Kingdom on Thursday 55-49 for 1-0 record in Preliminary Group D. Participants of this pool are also Slovakia and Serbia. Alexandra Stolyar (178-G-92) scored 13 points for the winners and Ksenia Tikhonenko (190-F/C-93, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav) helped her team with 9 points plus 11 rebounds. Galina Kiseleva (182-F-93) followed them with 8 points in this game. United Kingdom got 16 points and 7 boards from Renee E. Busch (175-G-92) and she was their only player with double digits in scoring. Cheridene Green (187-C-95) was close to double-double with 9 points and 12 rebounds, while Olufemi Hamilton (170-G-93) stopped to 8 points. Russia was up by 12 points at midway of Q4 and UK only came to minus 6 for rest of the game. Quarters: 15-11, 15-12, 14-15, 11-11). Russia will play against Slovakia on today. UK will meet Serbia.

United Kingdom: Renee E. Busch 16+7 boards, Cheridene Green 9+12 boards, Olufemi Hamilton 8
Russia: Alexandra Stolyar 13, Ksenia Tikhonenko 9+11 boards, Galina Kiseleva 8


Spartak Saint Petersburg leaves Premier League, Rostov enters - by Eurobasket News

Spartak St.Petersburg will not play in Premier League (PBL) next season. The board came up with the decision to withdraw from the top league in the country. Financial problems have been quoted as the main reason for the decision. Spartak St.Petersburg will play in Superleague (Second league of Russian basketball).
Last season Spartak St.Petersburg finished at 4-14 record occupying the 8th place in the regular season standings. Spartak St.Petersburg entered the playoffs and faced UMMC in the quarterfinal series. UMMC swept Spartak St.Petersburg in two games.
In the meantime BC Rostov nad Donou will probably take over Spartak St.Petersburg in the Premier League. BC Rostov nad Donou occupied the second position in Superleague last season. They are ready to fulfil all the necessary requirements to get promotion.


U20 Slovakia takes first win in Debrecin - by Eurobasket News

U20 RUSSIA - U20 SLOVAKIA 61-64

Slovakia celebrated its first victory at U20 EuroBasket in Debrecin. They had impressive first half against Russia, but at the end escaped with tiny 3-point win. Slovakia was up by 15 at the HT and Russia cut the margin to 11 at the end of Q3. Russia took control on its rival at the beginning of the last period and after six minutes made 52-55 turn. However, Slovakia closed this game with 12-6 run to grab very valuable victory. Zofia Hruscakova (190-C-95) (8 rebs) and Marta Palenikova (184-G/F-92) (5 rebs) led Slovakia with 15 points each. Marianna Draganovska (190-F/C-93) followed them with 11 points. In Russia, Ksenia Tikhonenko (190-F/C-93, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav) was better than the others with 13 points and 5 rebounds, while Darya Namok (179-G-93) and Svetlana Efimova (187-F-92) stopped to 11 points each. In the last day of the Preliminary Round, Slovakia will meet last ranked UK. Russia will play against undefeated Serbia.

Russia: Ksenia Tikhonenko 13+5 boards, Darya Namok 11, Svetlana Efimova 11
Slovakia: Zofia Hruscakova 15+8 boards, Marta Palenikova 15+5 boards, Marianna Draganovska 11


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  SERBIA   


U20 Serbia books spot for the next stage in Debrecin (2-0) - by Eurobasket News

U20 SERBIA - U20 UNITED KINGDOM 71-59

Serbia celebrated its second straight win at U20 EuroBasket in Debrecin. After thriller victory in Day One, Serbia cruised past United Kingdom on Friday 71-59 and booked a ticket for the next stage. At the other side, UK dropped to 0-2 in Group D. They will have to beat Slovakia in do-or-die game on Saturday. Snezana Colic (178-G-92) was the leading player in Serbia with 24 points. Ivana Brajkovic (195-C-93) helped with 11 points and 10 rebounds, while hero from Day One Natasa Kovacevic (187-F-94) added 10 pts in this meeting. Jessica Hurd (182-F-92) shined in defeat with 25 points and 9 boards. Their second scorer was Erin McGarrachan (182-G-92) with 14 points (7 rebs). Serbia was up by 7 at the halftime, but UK cut the margin to 5 pts with ten minutes to go. Serbia shined offensively in the last quarter (21-14) to take the victory in this meeting. In the last day of the Preliminary Round, Serbia will play against Russia and will try to win Group D with perfect 3-0 record. As mentioned above, UK will take on Slovakia.

Serbia: Snezana Colic 24, Ivana Brajkovic 11+10 boards, Natasa Kovacevic 10
UK: Jessica Hurd 25+9 boards, Erin McGarrachan 14+7 boards


U20 EuroBasket: Natasa Kovacevic lifts Serbia to 68-67 OT win against Slovakia - by Eurobasket News

U20 SLOVAKIA - U20 SERBIA 67-68 OT

Serbia grabbed 68-67 OT win against Slovakia in the opening day of U20 EuroBasket in Debrecin. It was a heartbreaking thriller and Serbia won it for 1-0 record in Preliminary Group D. After lay-up by Emese Vida, teams were tied at 56-56 with 48 seconds remaining in regular time. Slovakia had two possessions for rest of the way and Serbia had one, but they were not able to score and game went to OT. Slovakia jumped to 64-61 with 1:40 to go, but Jaksic replied with a triple. Barbora Balintova (176-G-94) made a basket for Slovakia, Natasa Kovacevic (187-F-94) scored on FT for Serbia and Balintova also scored one at the other side. There was 15 seconds remaining and Serbia had the last possession. Kovacevic received the ball, pulled up from behind the arc and made a winning triple for her team. Kovacevic stepped up with 20 points and 7 rebounds, and Ivana Brajkovic (195-C-93) helped Serbia with 14 points, plus 5 rebs. Tijana Dijan (174-PG-92) added 10 pts. In defeat, Martina Kissova (185-F-93) and Barbora Balintova posted 13 points each. Angelika Oravcova (175-PG-92) had one point less. Serbia will take on UK today, while Slovakia will play against Russia.

Slovakia: Martina Kissova 13, Barbora Balintova 13, Angelika Oravcova 12
Serbia: Natasa Kovacevic 20+7 boards, Ivana Brajkovic 14+5 boards, Tijana Dijan 10


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  SLOVAKIA   


Spisska Nova Ves name Slavka Bucakova Assistant Coach - by Barbora Stuchlikova

As announced by general manager of SKBD Rucon Spisska Nova Ves Robert Simkulak, former player and captain of MBK MBK Ruzomberok Slavka Frniakova-Bucakova (167-PG-79) will serve as an assistant coach at the Extraliga's newcomer.
Bucakova began with professional basketball in MBK Ruzomberok and with the team she won EuroLeague twice (in 1999 and 2000). In following years she suited up for a vest of Gambrinus Brno - the Czech champion and later signed with Polkowice. In 2003 she returned back to Slovakia in a jersey of Delta I.C.P. Kosice (nowadays known as Good Angels Kosice) and added another four Extraliga's titles. Before joining MBK Ruzomberok again in 2009, Bucakova played in France at Challes Les Eaux Basket. She retired from a career of professional basketball player in 2012, in the same year Bucakova led MBK Ruzomberok to quarterfinals of EuroCup.

Bucakova was also a member of Slovak Women NT and in 2000 she competed in the 2000 Summer Olympics.


U20 EuroBasket: Natasa Kovacevic lifts Serbia to 68-67 OT win against Slovakia - by Eurobasket News

U20 SLOVAKIA - U20 SERBIA 67-68 OT

Serbia grabbed 68-67 OT win against Slovakia in the opening day of U20 EuroBasket in Debrecin. It was a heartbreaking thriller and Serbia won it for 1-0 record in Preliminary Group D. After lay-up by Emese Vida, teams were tied at 56-56 with 48 seconds remaining in regular time. Slovakia had two possessions for rest of the way and Serbia had one, but they were not able to score and game went to OT. Slovakia jumped to 64-61 with 1:40 to go, but Jaksic replied with a triple. Barbora Balintova (176-G-94) made a basket for Slovakia, Natasa Kovacevic (187-F-94) scored on FT for Serbia and Balintova also scored one at the other side. There was 15 seconds remaining and Serbia had the last possession. Kovacevic received the ball, pulled up from behind the arc and made a winning triple for her team. Kovacevic stepped up with 20 points and 7 rebounds, and Ivana Brajkovic (195-C-93) helped Serbia with 14 points, plus 5 rebs. Tijana Dijan (174-PG-92) added 10 pts. In defeat, Martina Kissova (185-F-93) and Barbora Balintova posted 13 points each. Angelika Oravcova (175-PG-92) had one point less. Serbia will take on UK today, while Slovakia will play against Russia.

Slovakia: Martina Kissova 13, Barbora Balintova 13, Angelika Oravcova 12
Serbia: Natasa Kovacevic 20+7 boards, Ivana Brajkovic 14+5 boards, Tijana Dijan 10


U20 Slovakia takes first win in Debrecin - by Eurobasket News

U20 RUSSIA - U20 SLOVAKIA 61-64

Slovakia celebrated its first victory at U20 EuroBasket in Debrecin. They had impressive first half against Russia, but at the end escaped with tiny 3-point win. Slovakia was up by 15 at the HT and Russia cut the margin to 11 at the end of Q3. Russia took control on its rival at the beginning of the last period and after six minutes made 52-55 turn. However, Slovakia closed this game with 12-6 run to grab very valuable victory. Zofia Hruscakova (190-C-95) (8 rebs) and Marta Palenikova (184-G/F-92) (5 rebs) led Slovakia with 15 points each. Marianna Draganovska (190-F/C-93) followed them with 11 points. In Russia, Ksenia Tikhonenko (190-F/C-93, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav) was better than the others with 13 points and 5 rebounds, while Darya Namok (179-G-93) and Svetlana Efimova (187-F-92) stopped to 11 points each. In the last day of the Preliminary Round, Slovakia will meet last ranked UK. Russia will play against undefeated Serbia.

Russia: Ksenia Tikhonenko 13+5 boards, Darya Namok 11, Svetlana Efimova 11
Slovakia: Zofia Hruscakova 15+8 boards, Marta Palenikova 15+5 boards, Marianna Draganovska 11


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  SOUTH KOREA   


U17 USA blasts U17 South Korea in high-scoring game, 131-89 - by Eurobasket News

U17 SOUTH KOREA - U17 USA 89-131

USA drained 131 points in the opening day of U17 FIBA World Championship in Amsterdam. The defending champion blasted South Korea 131-89 for 1-0 record in Group A. Italy and Belgium also celebrated today and all three teams now share the first place in this pool. USA made 7-point lead in the first quarter and increased it to 21 until the halftime. USA offense looked wonderful and it seemed they are able to do whatever they want. USA scored only 3 times from behind the arc, while most of their points came from the paint. Quarters: 37-30, 33-19, 27-18, 36-22. Rebecca Greenwell (6'0''-G-95) had 23 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists in this victory. Brianna Turner (6'3''-F-96) followed with 20 points and 10 boards, while Mercedes Russell (6'5''-C-95) added 17 pts and 5 boards. USA grabbed 62 rebounds in this game, while Korea had only 20, what also proves USA dominance under the basket. Kim Heejin (95) scored 18 points for Korea (5 rebs) and An Heji (97) had 11. Korea had three more players with double digits. USA will meet Canada on Saturday and it will be the North American derby. Korea's rival will be Belgium.

South Korea: Kim Heejin 18+5 boards, An Heji 11
USA: Rebecca Greenwell 23+7 boards+7 as, Brianna Turner 20+10 boards, Mercedes Russell 17+5 boards


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  SPAIN   


U17 Spain explodes in Q3 (23-3) to beat U17 Australia in Amsterdam - by Eurobasket News

U17 AUSTRALIA - U17 SPAIN 49-65

Spain had amazing third quarter against Australia, which allowed them to take the first win at U17 FIBA World Championship in Amsterdam. Spain celebrated comfortable 65-49 victory for 1-0 record in Preliminary Group B, where six teams fight to earn four Quarterfinals ticket. Participants of this pool are also Japan, Brazil, Turkey and Holland. Yaiza Rodriguez (163-PG-95) paced Spain with 19 points and Ariadna Pujol (182-F-95) added 11 points, plus 10 rebounds. She had poor 0/5 from behind the arc. Third scorer in victory was Leticia Romero (177-G-95) with 10 points, while she also registered 6 rebounds and 5 assists. Australia was up by 5 at the halftime, but Spain exploded after the breather making impressive 23-3 for the next ten minutes. Australia was not able to recover from this run and faced with 16-point loss at the end. The best player in Australia was Tiana Mangakahia (165-PG-95) with 10 points and 5 rebounds. Stephanie Collins (195-C-95) (9 rebs) and Vanessa Panousis (170-PG-95) netted 7 points apiece. Australia will try to consolidate now and will try to beat Brazil tomorrow. Spain will play against Turkey in the next meeting.

Australia: Tiana Mangakahia 10+5 boards, Stephanie Collins 7+9 boards, Vanessa Panousis 7
Spain: Yaiza Rodriguez 19, Ariadna Pujol 11+10 boards, Leticia Romero 10+6 boards+5 as


Defending champion U20 Spain jumps to 2-0 in Debrecin - by Eurobasket News

U20 SPAIN - U20 LITHUANIA 93-55

Spain jumped to 2-0 record in Group A of U20 EuroBasket in Debrecin. The defending champion blasted Lithuania on Friday 93-55 getting 18 points and 6 rebounds from Queralt Casas (180-G-92). Marta Claret (185-C-92) and Elena Diaz (188-C-92) helped with 16 points each. Spain took control on its rival from the beginning and never looked back. Quarters: 20-14, 21-13, 25-13, 27-15. Santa Okockyte (176-PG-92) answered with 14 points and 5 rebounds in defeat. Their second scorer was Kriste Druskyte (179-G/F-92) with 11 points and Laura Svaryte (190-C/F-92) added 11. Lithuania dropped to 1-1 in this pool. Spain already booked a spot for the next stage, while Lithuania also has a nice chance to do it. In the last day of the Preliminary Round, Spain will meet Latvia. Lithuania will play against Belarus and it will be do-or-die game for both teams.

Spain: Queralt Casas 18+6 boards, Marta Claret 16, Elena Diaz 16
Lithuania: Santa Okockyte 14+5 boards, Kriste Druskyte 11, Laura Svaryte 11


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  SWEDEN   


U20 Sweden grabs 61-59 thriller win over U20 Italy, secures ticket for the second stage - by Eurobasket News

U20 ITALY - U20 SWEDEN 59-61

Sweden secured a ticket for the next stage at U20 EuroBasket in Debrecin. They grabbed 61-59 thriller win against Italy for 2-0 record in Group A. At the other side, Italy dropped to 0-2, but still has a chance to advance. Italy had 59-57 lead with 45 seconds remaining in the game. Binta Drammeh (180-F-92) made a basket with foul for 60-59 turn and Dotto missed a lay-up for Italy after that. Drammeh was sent to the line with 7 seconds to go and she made first, but missed her second free throw. Italy had the possession, but Galbiati committed a turnover. Farhiya Abdi (188-F-92) (7 rebs) and Drammeh (5 rebs) led the winners with 17 points each. Amanda Zahui (190-C-93) helped with 10 points ad 10 rebounds. In defeat, Caterina Dotto (167-PG-93) was way better than the others with 18 points and 7 rebounds. Stella Panella (178-F-93) scored 9, while Giovanna Pertile (182-F-92) and Irene Cigliani (177-F-92) stopped to 8 points each. Quarters: Italy - Sweden 8-15, 24-17, 7-12, 20-17. Sweden will meet Holland on Saturday, while Italy will take on Poland in do-or-die game.

Italy: Caterina Dotto 18+7 boards, Stella Panella 9, Giovanna Pertile 8, Irene Cigliani 8
Sweden: Farhiya Abdi 17+7 boards, Binta Drammeh 17+5 boards, Amanda Zahui 10+10 bards


Sweden Dodge Italian Bullet To Progress - by Johan Anderson

Sweden looked destined for a first loss in Group B at the U20 European Championship Women but a super last sixty seconds against Italy meant they were able to snatch a 61-59 victory from the jaws of defeat and step into the Second Round.

However, the result was a devastating blow for the Italians who, having firstly lost a tight opening game with Netherlands, allowed this glorious opportunity of a first win to slip despairingly from their grasp.
Leading 59-54 with less than a minute remaining, they found themselves victim of an Alice Nystrom triple which was the first nail in the coffin as Sweden finished with the last seven points of the contest.
Italy did have the chance to force overtime or even clinch a dramatic last gasp win, but the otherwise outstanding Caterina Dotto couldn't make the play driving to the basket.
Dotto was absolutely superb for Italy with 18 points, seven rebounds and six assists.
Sweden understandably breathed a sigh of relief as they clutched the rebound and were happy to see Dotto denied the chance of going to the free-throw line.
This was the second day of drama for newly promoted Sweden after picking up a close win against Poland and there was cause for a double celebration since they can not only look forward to the Second Round in Debrecen, but also another summer of Division A basketball.

Farhiya Abdi (188-F-92) and Binta Drammeh (180-F-92) registered 17 points each for the winning team.


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  SWITZERLAND   


U20 Germany too strong for U20 Switzerland, 91-52 - by Eurobasket News

U20 SWITZERLAND - U20 GERMANY 52-91

Germany had another great game in Klatovy. This time they blasted Switzerland 91-52 for perfect 2-0 record at U20 EuroBasket Division B. At the other side, it was the first appearance for Switzerland, who was free in Day One. Germany took control on its rival from the very beginning and never looked back. Quarters: 28-14, 24-16, 14-12, 25-10. Finja Schaake (179-F-92) led her team in scoring with 21 points, while Christina Schnorr (187-F/C-92) helped with 12 points and 9 rebounds. Laura Hebecker (181-F-93) added 11 pts and 6 boards. In Switzerland, Rosalie Grobet (185-F/C-92) had 9 points and Dorothee Studer (169-G-92) added one less. Germany will take a rest on Saturday. Switzerland will play against Greece.

Switzerland: Rosalie Grobet 9, Dorothee Studer 8
Germany: Finja Schaake 21, Christina Schnorr 12+9 boards, Laura Hebecker 11+6 boards


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  TURKEY   


Holland wins over Turkey 67-60 to start U17 FIBA World Championship - by Eurobasket News

U17 TURKEY - U17 HOLLAND 60-67

Holland celebrated 67-60 victory against Turkey in Day One in Amsterdam. The host of U17 FIBA World Championship had very good first half of the game and later managed to keep the lead for rest of the way. Both teams are placed to Preliminary Group B, together with Spain, Japan, Australia and Brazil. Four teams will advance to the Quarterfinals. Isabella Slim (181-F-95) was a key player for the hosts with 21 points and 5 rebounds. Britt Zappeij (184-C-95) followed her with 13 points and 7 rebounds, while Emese Hof (188-C-96) added 10 pts and 8 boards. In Turkey, Hulya Coklar (188-C-95) had a great game with 22 points and 14 rebs. She was the MVP of this meeting with valuation 30. Second scorer in Turkey was Busra Akbas (171-PG-95) with 19 points (7 rebs). Quarters: 17-11, 20-16, 13-16, 17-17. Holland will try to beat Japan on Saturday for the second straight win. Turkey will play against Spain.

Turkey: Hulya Coklar 22+14 boards, Busra Akbas 19+7 boards
Holland: Isabella Slim 21+5 boards, Britt Zappeij 13+7 boards, Emese Hof 10+8 boards


U20 Turkey jumps to 2-0 in Debrecin, books ticket for the second stage - by Eurobasket News

U20 TURKEY - U20 PORTUGAL 62-52

Turkey celebrated its second straight win at U20 EuroBasket in Debrecin. They downed Portugal 62-52 and already secured a ticket for the next stage. Turkey (2-0) now has a nice chance to win Group A, while at the other side Portugal fell to 0-2 and will have to beat Ukraine on Saturday in do-or-die game. Turkey made 9-point lead until the halftime having no troubles to keep it for rest of the way, despite Portugal came to minus 6 once in Q3. Quarters: 10-10, 22-13, 21-22, 9-7. Olcay Cakir (180-PG-93) (5 rebs) and Ayse Cora (175-G/F-93) led the winners with 12 points each. Gizem Basaran (194-C-92) secured a nice help adding 9 points and 7 boards. In the loosing squad, Daniela Domingues (176-G/F-92) (6 rebs) and Ines Faustino (170-G-92) netted 12 points each. Saturday is the last day of the Preliminary Round in Debrecin. As mentioned above, Portugal will play against Ukraine in do-or-die game. Turkey's rival will be France and that game is also very important for both teams as wins will be transferred to the next stage.

Turkey: Olcay Cakir 12+5 boards, Ayse Cora 12, Gizem Basaran 9+7 boards
Portugal: Daniela Domingues 12+6 boards, Ines Faustino 12


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  UKRAINE   


U20 Ukraine takes valuable win against U20 France, 75-66 - by Eurobasket News

U20 FRANCE - U20 UKRAINE 66-75

Ukraine did a great job against France on Friday in Debrecin. Ukraine celebrated 75-66 victory joining the defeated team with 1-1 record in Group C. Both teams have a chance to reach the second stage of U20 EuroBasket, but everything will be known on Saturday night. Ukraine got 25 points and 7 rebounds from Alina Iagupova (186-G-92, agency: LBM Management), who was the MVP of this game with valuation 27. Anna Kiriyenko (190-C-93) had 17 points and 5 rebounds, while Lyudmyla Naumenko (184-F-93) helped her team with 8 points and 5 rebs. In defeat, Christelle Diallo (193-C-93) and Sara Chevaugeon (177-G-93) netted 18 and 15 points each. Their third scorer was Adja Konteh (173-G/F-92) with only 7 points. Ukraine won three periods of this game, while only the last one belonged to France: 18-17, 24-16, 17-15, 16-18. Ukraine will meet last ranked Portugal on Saturday. France will play against undefeated Turkey.

France: Christelle Diallo 18, Sara Chevaugeon 15, Adja Konteh 7
Ukraine: Alina Iagupova 25+7 boards, Anna Kiriyenko 17+5 boards, Lyudmyla Naumenko 8+5 boards


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  UNITED KINGDOM   


U20 Russia celebrates in Day One in Debrecen - by Eurobasket News

U20 UNITED KINGDOM U20 RUSSIA 49-55

Russia opened U20 EuroBasket with victory. They outplayed United Kingdom on Thursday 55-49 for 1-0 record in Preliminary Group D. Participants of this pool are also Slovakia and Serbia. Alexandra Stolyar (178-G-92) scored 13 points for the winners and Ksenia Tikhonenko (190-F/C-93, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav) helped her team with 9 points plus 11 rebounds. Galina Kiseleva (182-F-93) followed them with 8 points in this game. United Kingdom got 16 points and 7 boards from Renee E. Busch (175-G-92) and she was their only player with double digits in scoring. Cheridene Green (187-C-95) was close to double-double with 9 points and 12 rebounds, while Olufemi Hamilton (170-G-93) stopped to 8 points. Russia was up by 12 points at midway of Q4 and UK only came to minus 6 for rest of the game. Quarters: 15-11, 15-12, 14-15, 11-11). Russia will play against Slovakia on today. UK will meet Serbia.

United Kingdom: Renee E. Busch 16+7 boards, Cheridene Green 9+12 boards, Olufemi Hamilton 8
Russia: Alexandra Stolyar 13, Ksenia Tikhonenko 9+11 boards, Galina Kiseleva 8


U20 Serbia books spot for the next stage in Debrecin (2-0) - by Eurobasket News

U20 SERBIA - U20 UNITED KINGDOM 71-59

Serbia celebrated its second straight win at U20 EuroBasket in Debrecin. After thriller victory in Day One, Serbia cruised past United Kingdom on Friday 71-59 and booked a ticket for the next stage. At the other side, UK dropped to 0-2 in Group D. They will have to beat Slovakia in do-or-die game on Saturday. Snezana Colic (178-G-92) was the leading player in Serbia with 24 points. Ivana Brajkovic (195-C-93) helped with 11 points and 10 rebounds, while hero from Day One Natasa Kovacevic (187-F-94) added 10 pts in this meeting. Jessica Hurd (182-F-92) shined in defeat with 25 points and 9 boards. Their second scorer was Erin McGarrachan (182-G-92) with 14 points (7 rebs). Serbia was up by 7 at the halftime, but UK cut the margin to 5 pts with ten minutes to go. Serbia shined offensively in the last quarter (21-14) to take the victory in this meeting. In the last day of the Preliminary Round, Serbia will play against Russia and will try to win Group D with perfect 3-0 record. As mentioned above, UK will take on Slovakia.

Serbia: Snezana Colic 24, Ivana Brajkovic 11+10 boards, Natasa Kovacevic 10
UK: Jessica Hurd 25+9 boards, Erin McGarrachan 14+7 boards


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  WNBA   

Standings

WNBA Standings
Eastern
 1. Connecticut S. 15-5 
 2. Indiana F. 11-7 
 3. Atlanta D. 10-10 
 4. Chicago S. 8-10 
 5. New York L. 7-12 
 6. Washington M. 5-16 
Western
 1. Minnesota L. 16-4 
 2. S.Antonio SS 14-5 
 3. L.Angeles S. 14-7 
 4. Seattle S. 11-10 
 5. Phoenix M. 4-16 
 6. Tulsa S. 3-16 

Regular Season: Round 24

Aug. 17: Minnesota L. - Washington M. 98-69
Aug. 16: Indiana F. - Washington M. 84-66
Aug. 17: Tulsa S. - S.Antonio SS 79-89
Aug. 16: New York L. - Connecticut S. 79-66
Aug. 17: Chicago S. - Atlanta D. 76-82
Aug. 16: Seattle S. - Phoenix M. 72-58

Regular Season: Round 25

Aug. 18: Connecticut S. - New York L.
Aug. 18: Indiana F. - Atlanta D.
Aug. 18: Seattle S. - L.Angeles S.
Aug. 19: Washington M. - Chicago S.
Aug. 19: Phoenix M. - S.Antonio SS
Aug. 19: Minnesota L. - Tulsa S.



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  WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS U17   

Div.A Standings

Standings
Group A
1. Belgium1-0
2. Italy1-0
3. USA1-0
4. S.Korea0-1
5. Mali0-1
6. Canada0-1
Group B
1. Spain1-0
2. Japan1-0
3. Holland1-0
4. Turkey0-1
5. Australia0-1
6. Brazil0-1

Preliminary Round: Round 1

Group A

Aug. 17: KOR - USA 89-131
Aug. 17: CAN - ITA 55-68
Aug. 17: MLI - BEL 45-81

Group B

Aug. 17: JPN - BRA 92-71
Aug. 17: TUR - NED 60-67
Aug. 17: AUS - ESP 49-65

Preliminary Round: Round 2

Group A

Aug. 18: ITA - MLI
Aug. 18: BEL - KOR
Aug. 18: USA - CAN

Group B

Aug. 18: BRA - AUS
Aug. 18: ESP - TUR
Aug. 18: NED - JPN


Day One in Amsterdam - by Eurobasket News

Group A
South Korea - USA 89-131
USA drained 131 points in the opening day of U17 FIBA World Championship in Amsterdam. The defending champion blasted South Korea 131-89 for 1-0 record in Group A. Italy and Belgium also celebrated today and all three teams now share the first place in this pool. USA made 7-point lead in the first quarter and increased it to 21 until the halftime. USA offense looked wonderful and it seemed they are able to do whatever they want. USA scored only 3 times from behind the arc, while most of their points came from the paint. Quarters: 37-30, 33-19, 27-18, 36-22. Rebecca Greenwell (6'0''-G-95) had 23 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists in this victory. Brianna Turner (6'3''-F-96) followed with 20 points and 10 boards, while Mercedes Russell (6'5''-C-95) added 17 pts and 5 boards. USA grabbed 62 rebounds in this game, while Korea had only 20, what also proves USA dominance under the basket. Kim Heejin (95) scored 18 points for Korea (5 rebs) and An Heji (97) had 11. Korea had three more players with double digits. USA will meet Canada on Saturday and it will be the North American derby. Korea's rival will be Belgium.

Canada - Italy 55-68
Italy opened U17 FIBA World Championship with victory. They downed Canada on Friday 68-55 for 1-0 record in Preliminary Group A. There are six teams in this pool and four of them will advance to the Quarterfinals. Third quarter was the crucial one in this meeting. Italy was up by 5 at the halftime and they totally took control on its rival after the breather making 18-7 in Q3. It means that Italy jumped to plus 16 and last period was just the formality. Antonia Peresson (177-PG-95) scored 18 points for the winners and Elisa Penna (186-F-95) added 16 points, plus 6 boards. Martina Kacerik (179-SG-96) added 15 pts. Kia Nurse (180-PG-96) shined in loss with 20 points. Their second scorer was Emily Potter (196-C/F-95) with 8 points and she grabbed 5 rebounds beside that. Canada will meet USA on Saturday, while Italy will play against Mali.

Mali - Belgium 45-81
Belgium had a joyful Day One in Amsterdam. They destroyed Mali 81-45 in the opening game of U17 FIBA World Championship for 1-0 record in Preliminary Group A. Participants of this pool are also Canada, Italy, South Korea and defending champion USA. Four teams will advance to the Quarterfinals. Belgium took control on its rival from the very beginning and never looked back. They had 10-point lead after ten minutes and jumped to plus 26 until the halftime. Nothing has changed after the breather and Belgium celebrated huge win at the end. Hind Ben Abdelkader (173-SG-95) was their leading player with 25 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. Celine Lemmens (182-PF-95) scored 11 points and Kyara Linskens (191-C-96) followed with 9 pts, plus 8 boards. In Mali, Mariam Maiga (169-G-96) and Aissata Fomba (175-G-95) (8 rebs) were better than the others with 14 and 12 pts respectively. Djeneba N'Diaye (165-PG-97) had 9 pts. On Saturday, Belgium will play against South Korea. Mali's rival will be Italy.

Group B
Turkey - Holland 60-67
Holland celebrated 67-60 victory against Turkey in Day One in Amsterdam. The host of U17 FIBA World Championship had very good first half of the game and later managed to keep the lead for rest of the way. Both teams are placed to Preliminary Group B, together with Spain, Japan, Australia and Brazil. Four teams will advance to the Quarterfinals. Isabella Slim (181-F-95) was a key player for the hosts with 21 points and 5 rebounds. Britt Zappeij (184-C-95) followed her with 13 points and 7 rebounds, while Emese Hof (188-C-96) added 10 pts and 8 boards. In Turkey, Hulya Coklar (188-C-95) had a great game with 22 points and 14 rebs. She was the MVP of this meeting with valuation 30. Second scorer in Turkey was Busra Akbas (171-PG-95) with 19 points (7 rebs). Quarters: 17-11, 20-16, 13-16, 17-17. Holland will try to beat Japan on Saturday for the second straight win. Turkey will play against Spain.

Australia - Spain 49-65
Spain had amazing third quarter against Australia, which allowed them to take the first win at U17 FIBA World Championship in Amsterdam. Spain celebrated comfortable 65-49 victory for 1-0 record in Preliminary Group B, where six teams fight to earn four Quarterfinals ticket. Participants of this pool are also Japan, Brazil, Turkey and Holland. Yaiza Rodriguez (163-PG-95) paced Spain with 19 points and Ariadna Pujol (182-F-95) added 11 points, plus 10 rebounds. She had poor 0/5 from behind the arc. Third scorer in victory was Leticia Romero (177-G-95) with 10 points, while she also registered 6 rebounds and 5 assists. Australia was up by 5 at the halftime, but Spain exploded after the breather making impressive 23-3 for the next ten minutes. Australia was not able to recover from this run and faced with 16-point loss at the end. The best player in Australia was Tiana Mangakahia (165-PG-95) with 10 points and 5 rebounds. Stephanie Collins (195-C-95) (9 rebs) and Vanessa Panousis (170-PG-95) netted 7 points apiece. Australia will try to consolidate now and will try to beat Brazil tomorrow. Spain will play against Turkey in the next meeting.

Japan - Brazil 92-71
Japan exploded in the last ten minutes of the game against Brazil to register comfortable 21-point win. Both teams are placed to Preliminary Group B of U17 FIBA World Championship in Amsterdam. Their rivals are Spain, Holland, Turkey and Australia. Four teams will book a ticket to the Quarterfinals. Japan had minimum lead after first period and increased it to 10 until the halftime (47-37). Brazil slightly improved after that, but Japan intensified defense in Q4 limiting its rival to 12 pts for ten minutes, while at the other side the drained 26 points leaving Brazil without the chance. Yunika Nakamura (95) (95) top-scored in victory with 21 points and she pulled down 6 rebounds. Natsumi Nagai (95) had 18 points and 5 rebs, while MVP of this game was Evelyn Mawuli (180-F/C-95) with double-double of 15 points and 12 rebs (valuation 21). Izabella Sangalli (181-F-95) answered with 23 points and 5 rebounds for Brazil, whose second scorer was Kananda Ribeiro (183-F/C-96) with 11 pts (5 rebs). Carla Silva Lucchini (95) was limited to 10 points and 5 rebs for 32 minutes on the court. Brazil will try to beat Australia tomorrow. Japan will meet host of this event - Holland.