EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 8/21/2012 1:00:00 AM

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Men News

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  AFRICAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U18   



Preliminary Round review - by Eurobasket News

Mali (3-1) is the winner of Preliminary Group A at U18 AfroBasket in Maputo. Ghana, Mozambique and Tunisia also advanced to the Quarterfinals.
In Group B, Egypt is No.1 with perfect 4-0 record. Senegal, Ivory Coast and Angola are three other teams from this pool who booked a spot for the next stage.
Egypt is the defending champion.


GROUP A
1st MALI (Q) 3-1
2nd GHANA (Q) 3-1
3rd MOZAMBIQUE (Q) 2-2
4th TUNISIA (Q) 1-3
5th RWANDA 1-3

GROUP B
1st EGYPT (Q) 5-0
2nd SENEGAL (Q) 4-1
3rd IVORY COAST (Q) 3-2
4th ANGOLA (Q) 2-3
5th GABON 1-4
6th MOROCCO 0-5


DAY ONE - August 16

SEN 20 23 16 14 73
GAB 18 12 19 20 69

CIV 13 15 24 16 60
ANG 20 08 11 12 51

MOZ 09 11 06 08 34
RWA 15 17 17 13 62

EGY 65
MOR 47


DAY TWO - August 17

GAB 14 09 12 10 45
CIV 11 18 13 15 57

TUN 09 10 10 14 43
RWA 13 04 11 10 38

ANG 11 14 13 19 58
MAR 10 08 01 06 25

MOZ 07 14 14 16 15 66
MLI 12 14 17 08 03 54

EGY 15 07 13 14 49
SEN 12 08 12 07 39


DAY THREE - August 18

GHA 10 17 11 09 47
TUN 12 08 13 11 44

GAB 04 09 09 18 40
ANG 13 13 14 11 51

SEN 14 10 19 18 61
MAR 14 11 17 10 52

CIV 08 10 10 17 45
EGY 11 18 08 12 49

MLI 08 17 13 08 47
RWA 05 15 04 09 33


DAY FOUR - August 20

RWA 07 10 14 12 43
GHA 16 07 11 14 48

MLI 47
GHA 43

EGY 90
ANG 49

MOR 44
GAB 47

MOZ 61
TUN 54


DAY FIVE - August 21

ANG 09 06 24 06 45
SEN 19 21 12 15 67

MAR 09 17 13 20 59
CIV 16 13 23 10 62

GAB 10 11 13 17 51
EGY 14 20 27 17 78

GHA 16 13 19 18 66
MOZ 16 07 11 13 47

TUN 16 06 18 12 52
MLI 09 21 14 15 59


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  ARGENTINA   


Cristian Cortez continues his carreer in Brazil - by Facundo Iatzky (T)

Young point guard Cristian Cortez (185-G-90) will play 2012/13 season in Brazil, specfically in club Gremio Mogi das cruzes. "Titi" Cortez won the promotion to NBB league with this team and now he was renewes by them. Cristian played 2011/12 season in Estudiantes Concordia (TNA). Cristian is a former youth national teams. He played the U19 world championship in New Zealand back in 2009, and he was the youngest player ever to play a game in Argentinean Liga A, with only 14 years playing for Obras sanitarias.


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  ASIAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U18   


Second Stage starts in Ulaanbaatar - by Eurobasket News

Group E
Lebanon - Syria 91-72
Lebanon opened win count at the Second Stage of U18 Asia Championship. They knocked down Syria in Group E to improve at 2-1 record. Wael Arakji (192-G-94) stepped up with 33 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Lebanon cleared off to a 7-poitn lead after ten minutes 20:13. Syria narrowed the gap in the second quarter. They got within just five points at halftime 34:39. But Lebanon managed to boost their lead in the third term. They held Syria to 14 points in the quarter and ensured a 12-point buffer heading into the fourth frame. Lebanon fired 31 points in the final stanza to seal the victory. Jimmy Salem and Hanna Nemer contributed 11 points each for the winners. Mahmmoud Trub (195-F-94) responded with 23 points for Syria. Mourad Hashim had 12 points and 9 rebounds in the loss.

India - South Korea 73-123
South Korea kept their spotless record at U18 Asia Championship. They outgunned India at the start of the Second Stage of the tournament today. Jonghyun Lee (206-C-94) delivered 29 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists to lead the winners. South Korea unloaded 35 points in the opening quarter to take off. They grabbed a 12-point lead and stretched the margin in the second quarter. The Korean team ensured a 32-point lead at the interval 64:32. South Korea kept India at bay throughout the third term. The margin grew at 37-point mark at the final intermission. South Korea did not slow down in the fourth period and raced to the victory at the end. Gibeom Cheon (187-G-94) netted 17 points, while Sangjae Kang and Seongmo Choi provided 15 points each in the win. Amit Kanarjee (187-PG-94) replied with 25 points for India. Rakesh Singh had 12 points and 11 rebounds in the loss.

China - Japan 138-73
China recorded another victory at U18 Asian Championship. They opened Second Stage with a confident win over Japan. Wang Zhelin (215-C/F-94) came up with 36 points and 17 rebounds to lead the winners. China surged ahead early in the game. They posted a 29:10 lead after ten minutes. The margin grew at 28-point mark at halftime 64:36. China opened the second half on a 26:5 rally and cruised at 102:53 lead at the final intermission. Japan never came back to life allowing China to breeze to the victory. Yang Jinmeng, Li Qi and Dai Huaibo finished with 15 points each for the winners. Yusei Suguira (194-PF-95) answered with 17 points for Japan. Masahiro Narita had 11 points in the loss.

Group F
Taiwan - Saudi Arabia 82-41
Taiwan successfully started Group F campaign as the team smashed Saudi Arabia in the opener of Day 4. Taiwan looked too good for the opponents and won 82:41. Taiwan improved to 3-0 record in Group F, while Saudi Arabia fell at 0-3 record. Taiwan won the opening period 21-7 and added 17-13 in the second frame. The second half also belonged to the winning side that produced two victories in the last two quarters. Taiwan won the third period 21-11 and finished the game with 23-10 in the last stanza. Huang Tsun-Han (193-F-94) top-scored for the winners with 14 points, while Lin Kuan-Chun and Huang Hung-Han had 11 each. Lee Chia-Jui followed them with 10 points in a win. Mohammed Alhosawe (173-G-94) replied with 14 points in the losing effort and Abojalas Nassir collected 10 points and 11 rebounds. Mohammed Safwan and Bafarat Asslam delivered 6 points apiece.

Indonesia - Philippines 62-88
Philippines rout Indonesia in Ulaanbaatar at the 22nd FIBA Asia U18 Championship.The winning side celebrated 88:62 win in the start of the fourth day. Philippines improved to 2-1 record, while Indonesia fell at 1-2 record at a newly created Group F. Philippines started better and reached 23-18 after the first period. They increased to 10 more points at the halftime after 22-12 in the second frame. Moreover the winners scored another 22 points in the third period and grabbed 67:48 advantage after three quarters played. Moreover they finished the game with 21-14 in the last stanza to seal the victory. Jerie Pingoy (175-G-94) paced all the winners with 16 points and Mario Bonleon (183-F-94) netted 15. Nambatac Rey delivered 11, while Rivero Rashleigh-Paolo and Porter Kristoffer scored 8 each. Jan Panagan (179-G-94) ended up with 12 points in the losing effort and Adrianno Andre poured in 11. Pangesthio Rivaldoand Kosasih Vicent followed them with 9 points apiece.

Bahrain - Iran 76-87
Iran beat Bahrain for 3-0 record in Group F at the 22nd FIBA Asia U18 Championship. The team celebrated a 87:76 win in Day 4 of the competition. Iran won the first period 21-16 and continued to dominate the court in the second quarter. They added 25-18 in it for 46:34 advantage at the halftime. Bahrain started to play better in the second half and as a result both teams scored 16 points each in the third period.Moreover Bahrain won the last stanza 26-25 and reduced to final 11 points. Mohammad Sistani (181-G-86) top-scored for the winners with 26 points and Behnam Yakhchali (191-G-95) nailed 17. Najafikharaji Aliyar delivered 10, while Dalirzahan Vahid posted 9. Ali Melad (171-F-94) ended up with 19 points in defeat and Sayed Hasan Ali notched 16. Buallay Mohammed finished the game with 12 points, while Abdulrasool Abbas scored 7.
13-16 Place
Hong Kong - Singapore 75-64
Hong Kong celebrated the first win at the U18 Asia Championship. They knocked down Singapore to set up the clash versus Mongolia for the 13th place at the tournament. Choi kwan Tsai came up with 21 points to lead Hong Kong. Singapore will take on Kazakhstan in the final game at the tournament. Hong Kong eked out an 18:14 lead after ten minutes of action. They maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. Hong Kong ensured a 37:34 halftime advantage. Singapore stayed close throughout the third quarter. They narrowed the margin at one-point mark at the final intermission 51:52. Hong Kong cleared off early in the final stanza. They opened an 8-point lead and marched to the victory at the end. Chang Yiu-Fai (168-PG-94) delivered 15 points for Hong Kong. Ho Chun Kit had 16 points and 8 rebounds in the victory. Low Remus (183-F-94) answered with 17 points for Singapore. Loon Tay Ding had 16 points and 10 rebounds in the loss.

Mongolia - Kazakhstan 60-52
Mongolia beat Kazakhstan in the start of the Classification Round at the 22nd FIBA Asia U18 Championship. The home side overcame the visiting team 60:52. Mongolia grabbed 10-8 lead in the middle of the first period and enjoyed 20-13 at the end of it. They increased to 8 points midway through the second frame and had 41:27 at the halftime. Kazakhstan reduced to 10 points with 5 minutes to go in the third quarter and trailed 47:39 after three quarters. No matter how hard they tried to step closer, they could not catch up with the opponents. Mongolia took the 8-point victory and satisfied the fans. Enkhtaivan Chinzorig (188-C-95) top-scored for the winners with 15 points and Khash-Erdene Doniddemberei (187-F-94) collected 13 points and 16 boards. Munkhnasan Lkhamjav notched 11, while Anar-Erdene Khureltogoo added 10. Alexey Kurochka (185-G-94) replied with 18 points and Maxim Marchuk had 15 points and 18 boards.


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  AUSTRALIA   


QBL: Players of the Week: Round 14 - by Eurobasket News

South West Metro Pirates Robert Lippman (203-C, college: NW Nazarene) has been named the mens Player of the Week for Round 14, after he shot 38 points in the Pirates 91-61 point win over the Maroochydore Clippers on Saturday night. Lippman hit his highest game score to date this season in under 28 minutes and at a rate of 50 percent in the field and 82 percent at the free-throw line, also taking seven rebounds, three assists and two steals in the win in Maroochydore. With the Clippers dominating the first quarter to lead by five points at the first break, Lippman sunk 16 points in the second quarter to help South West gain the upper hand and the lead, heading into the halftime break up by 11 points. He then returned to the court to hit another 16 points in the third quarter, to help his team build an unreachable 26-point lead going into the final term. Its Lippmans first season in the QBL, the 26 year old from Spokane, Washington joining the Pirates this year alongside fellow import Kenny Barnes. The 203cm forward/centre swing has proven his worth throughout the season, consistently contributing double-figures on the scoreboard, with a current average of 17.3 points per game at a rate of 51.9 percent in the field, and also pulling in an average of 6.8 rebounds per game.

Lippman first attended college at Spokane Community College, where his team took out the Northwest Athletic Association of Community Colleges (NWAACC) East League conference, and were runners-up in the NWAACC championship. Lippman then attended Northwest Nazarene University in Idaho from 2008 to 2010, where during his first season he averaged 3.1 points and 2.7 rebounds.

Round 14 saw a number of other strong performances, including James Legan from the Toowoomba Mountaineers, who shot 31 points and took 14 rebounds in their win over Bundaberg, while Aaron Grabau (196-G/F-78) from the Cairns Marlins put up 26 points and took nine rebounds in the win over Northside Wizards. Nicholas Masunda had a solid game against the Gold Coast, putting up 29 points at 54 percent in the field in Brisbanes win, while Zach Silverman (198-SF-88, agency: Gross Zeev ISA, college: Iowa Wesleyan) was strong for Gladstone over Toowoomba, shooting 25 points and taking 15 rebounds.
Courtesy of: qbl.basketball.net.au


Curtis Withers is a newcomer at Townsville Crocodiles - by Eurobasket Center (T)

Townsville Crocodiles added to their roster 28-year old American forward Curtis Withers (203-F-104kg-84, college: Charlotte, agency: Court Side). Withers played most recently at Sioux Falls Skyforce (D-League) in the U.S. While playing 8 games for the team from Sioux Falls last season he recorded 14.0ppg, 6.8rpg, 2.1apg and 1.4spg. He is a very experienced player. Withers played also pro basketball in China, France, Israel, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Spain, Turkey and Venezuela. He graduated University of North Carolina - Charlotte in 2006 and it will be his seventh season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center


Crocs sign import Curtis Withers - by Hugh McAuliffe

The Townsville Crocodiles have now finalised their roster for the iiNet NBL Championship 2012/13 season by signing 28 year old, 203cm forward/centre, Curtis Withers (203-F-84, agency: Court Side, college: Charlotte).

The University of North Carolina product averaged 9.5 points and 6.4 rebounds per game for the Sioux Falls Skyforce in the highly competitive NBA D-League last season.

Crocs CEO Ian Smythe says Withers will add a toughness that will be very hard to contain in the coming season.

Out scouting tell us he competes for everything and thats what the Crocs are all about, said Smythe.

Head Coach Paul Woolpert is also excited about Withers signature.

He is that strong inside presence, but can also find the open guy on the perimeter. He will own the paint, which will keep a nice balance with our perimeter guys as well. I can see a very efficient and exciting offense taking shape.

On the defensive end, he uses his core strength to just move guys out of his area and he is long, said Woolpert.

Smythe is very pleased with the teams recruitment and believes the two new imports will fit well with Crocs club and team culture.

We have retained the core of our team from last seasons group and we have brought in two highly rated imports.

With new imports, the transition needs to be a smooth as possible, and having two experienced and professional players coming in, team chemistry can be fast tracked, said Smythe.

Coach Woolpert is equally as happy with the team that has been constructed.

The offense is very well balanced and defensively, we have the length and athleticism to get consecutive stops and really put the clamps on an offensive unit.

I cannot speak highly enough of the guys enthusiasm and desire to build on what they have achieved as a unit.

Withers has a very efficient scoring game, shooting at 55% from the field this past season in the D League, and with the NBL a league that boasts its talent mainly at the guards/forwards, a reliable under the basket scorer is a niche that the Crocs look to exploit.

The league hasnt seen many guys of Curtis mould in recent times, so we feel we have an angle that can be quite potent, said Woolpert.

The Crocs look to have both imports in town to commence training in the near future, with official pre season training to commence Monday August 27.


Bogut determined to be ready for season opener, even if it means missing some training camp - by Eurobasket News

Warriors center Andrew Bogut (7'0''-C-84, college: Utah) said his surgically repaired left ankle will be ready for the Oct. 31 season opener at Phoenix. But he acknowledged that may mean sacrificing some of training camp, or even some preseason games.

Its about being smart with my ankle, Bogut said via a conference call with local media. Theres no point in trying to get ready for October 1st, when another week could significantly help. Im trying to get ready for camp, but my main goal is for the first game of the season to be 110 percent.

Bogut said based on the timeline given by the surgeons, he might be a bit ahead of schedule. He has already been shooting and lifting weights. He was recently cleared to start light jogging on the treadmill. Plus Warriors head athletic trainer JoHan Wang spent last in Australia working out Bogut: He pretty much smashed me in the gym. Bogut said his ankle has responded well to the increased activity, with little to no swelling or soreness.

While with the Milwaukee Bucks, Bogut fractured his left ankle on Jan. 25 and missed the last 54 games. Still, the Warriors traded for Bogut on March 13, giving up guard Monta Ellis and Ekpe Udoh. On April 27, Bogut had arthroscopic surgery on April 27 in Van Nuys to clean out loose particles and bone spurs.

Warriors general manager Bob Myers said previously the team is happy with Boguts progress. But the veteran center has some time before he can run fully on a court, let alone fully compete in a game setting.

Bogut said he wants to be ready for training camp, which begins Oct. 3, but said it will be close. The two-a-day practices at first might be too much to jump into. So Bogut may be limited even if he is in camp.

The immediate goal with all of this is to be ready for the first game, Bogut said, whether that means only playing in only half the preseason games or whatever.

Courtesy of www.ibabuzz.com


QBL: Weekend Wrap-Up: Round 14 - by Eurobasket News

Cairns Marlins 83 def. Northside Wizards 65

The mens team managed to even the score for Cairns, with the margins kept within single digits throughout the game, right up until with less than seven minutes remaining where the Wizards lost control, handing the game to Cairns. Aaron Grabau shot 26 points for the Marlins while Zac Carter (199-F/G-89) top-scored for Northside with 16.

Brisbane Capitals 73 def. by Gold Coast Rollers 87

It was a closer battle in the mens match, with the Gold Coast getting out to a seven-point lead at the end of the first quarter, before the Capitals stole it back to lead by five points at halftime. The Rollers again fired up to steal the lead back to go into the final quarter up by three points, and despite another comeback from the home side early in the fourth term, the Rollers managed to again grab the lead to take the 10 point win. Nicholas Masunda (188-G-85) had a game-high 29 points for the Capitals while the Rollers Scott McGregor shot 17 points.

Rockhampton Cyclones 72 def. Mackay Meteorettes 59

The mens match saw a similar story with the teams keeping fans on the edge of their seats in the first half, the Rockets coming back from the start of the second quarter trailing by one point to lead by 11 at halftime. From there they managed to maintain composure throughout a number of Mackay comebacks, to go through with the 11 point win. Mitch Philp shot 19 points for Rockhampton while Michael Cedar and Braydon Hobbs (195-G, college: Bellarmine) both contributed 15 for the Meteors.

Gladstone Power 82 def Toowoomba Mountaineers 74

The Gladstone men had a closer call in their match, leading the visitors by five points at halftime after both teams shared the lead in the first two quarters. The Mountaineers then staged a strong comeback, dominating the third quarter to go into the final stanza up by six points. But the Power werent about to concede their last match of the season on their home court, and pulled out a massive effort to take the match by eight points. Gladstones Zach Silverman (198-SF-88, agency: Gross Zeev ISA, college: Iowa Wesleyan) shot 25 points while the Mountaineers James Legan (190-G-87, agency: Court Side, college: E.Carolina) shot 19 points.

Maroochydore Clippers 61 def. by South West Metro Pirates 91

Maroochydore held the lead in the first quarter, before the visitors took the lead in the second and built themselves a strong margin to take the 30-point win. The Pirates Robert Lippman shot 38 points to earn himself the Player of the Week title, while Gianni Constantiello and Zeke Meehl both shot 17 points for the Clippers.

Townsville Heat 91 def. Northside Wizards 72

It was a different story in the mens game with the Heat dominating the match almost from tip-off, ending their season on a comfortable win. Matthew Rees (205-C-87) shot 22 points for Townsville, as did Louis Hurd for Northside.

Bundaberg Bulls 84 def. by Toowoomba Mountaineers 100

The Bundaberg men werent as fortunate in their match, with the first three quarters seeing a tight battle for the lead, the Toowoomba side eventually powering up to build a decent lead in the final quarter to take the win. James Legan shot 31 points for Toowoomba while Willie Shackleford had 21 points for Bundaberg.
Courtesy of: qbl.basketball.net.au

Standings - ABA

State Standings
Big V
 1. Ringwood H. 17-3 
 2. Eltham W. 15-5 
 3. Waverley F. 13-7 
 4. Corio Bay 12-8 
 5. Diamond V.E. 9-11 
 6. Hume City 9-11 
 7. Bulleen B. 7-13 
 8. Sherbrooke S. 5-15 
 9. Melbourne 3-17 
Central ABL
 1. Sturt S. 14-4 
 2. Forestville E. 13-5 
 3. N.Adelaide R. 13-5 
 4. W.Adelaide B. 13-5 
 5. Norwood F. 11-7 
 6. Woodville W. 8-10 
 7. Southern T. 6-12 
 8. C.District L. 6-12 
 9. S.Adelaide P. 4-14 
 10. Eastern M. 2-16 
QBL
 1. Rockhampton 13-3 
 2. Mackay M. 12-4 
 3. Ipswich F. 12-4 
 4. Cairns M. 11-5 
 5. Townsville H. 10-6 
 6. Gold Coast R. 9-7 
 7. Northside W. 9-7 
 8. SW Metro P. 8-8 
 9. Bundaberg B. 5-11 
 10. Brisbane C. 4-12 
 11. Gladstone P. 4-12 
 12. Toowoomba 4-12 
 13. Maroochydore 3-13 
SBL
 1. Wanneroo W. 23-3 
 2. Lakeside L. 22-4 
 3. Cockburn C. 17-9 
 4. East Perth E. 16-10 
 5. Mandurah M. 16-10 
 6. Perth R. 15-11 
 7. Goldfield G. 13-13 
 8. Kalamunda E.S. 12-14 
 9. Geraldton B. 12-14 
 10. Perry Lakes H. 11-15 
 11. Willetton T. 10-16 
 12. Stirling S. 8-18 
 13. SW Slammers 4-22 
 14. Rockingham F. 3-23 
SEABL-East
 1. Dandenong 20-8 
 2. Geelong S. 19-9 
 3. Bendigo B. 18-10 
 4. Frankston B. 15-13 
 5. Sandringham S. 13-15 
 6. Brisbane S. 9-19 
 7. Canberra G. 1-27 
SEABL-South
 1. Knox R. 18-10 
 2. Ballarat M. 16-12 
 3. Albury W.B. 16-12 
 4. Nunawading S. 16-12 
 5. Hobart C. 16-12 
 6. Kilsyth C. 16-12 
 7. Mt Gambier 9-19 
 8. NW Tasmania 8-20 
WARATAH
 1. Newcastle H. 18-3 
 2. Norths Bears 18-4 
 3. Manly Warr. 15-7 
 4. Illawarra H. 13-9 
 5. Sydney C. 11-10 
 6. Maitland M. 11-11 
 7. Bankstown B. 11-11 
 8. Hills H. 10-12 
 9. Cent.Coast C. 10-13 
 10. Colonial Hotel 6-16 
 11. Parramatta W. 4-17 
 12. Sutherland S. 4-18 

Semi-Finals: Round 1

Big V

Aug. 4: Corio Bay - Ringwood H. 91-98
Aug. 5: Waverley F. - Eltham W. 74-90

Central ABL

Aug. 18: Sturt S. - Forestville E. 73-72
Aug. 18: N.Adelaide R. - Norwood F. 61-79

Finals: Round 2

Aug. 25: Ringwood H. - Eltham W.


Big V: Grand final Game 1 Wrap Up - by Eurobasket News

An amazing 11pt burst in the third quarter by former Wildcat Adrien Sturt has propelled Ringwood to a game one win of the grand final series and to within a victory of claiming this year's title.

Down by 7 pts at halftime the Haws enjoyed Sturt's ability to score quickly and it led to a 10-0 run ability to score quicly and it led to a 10-0 run in the third period to establish a match-winning lead that the Wildcats failed to eclipse. The contest started with both teams finding their range and lile separated them o (er the opening 10 minutes. The Wildcats edged clear in the second quarter thans to Cameron Tragardh, Liam Norton and Karl Beston stepping up.

However 20-11 third term by the Haws was telling and though Tragardh lit it up early in the last quarter and dragged the back to 3pts. Syler Bowlin (18pts) was terrific, Sturt (17 pts) looked a class above and a Matthew Snowball (G) (15) had an entertainingthat included some amazing shots.

Courtesy of: www.bigv.com.au


Mark Worthington testing AFL waters - by Eurobasket News

After helping the Boomers to a Quert Finals berth in his second Olympic Games, NBL star Mark Worthington (202-PF-83, college: Metro St.) is reportedly poised to try out with West Coast Eagles AFL in Perth this week.

Worthington admits he has long wanted to try playing football and is interested to see if a switch is possible. He is set to be flown to Perth this week by the Eagles for testing.

The work-out this week will see where Im at, Worthington told The Advertister.

Playing AFL was something I always wanted to do but I thought the opportunity had passed at my age.

I dont mean that in terms of being too old but just switching sports to be a mature-age recruit seemed unlikely.

But West Coasts CEO is a Bunbury guy Ive known a long time and theyve shown a high level of interest.

After the Gold Coast Blaze exited the NBL, Worthington had signed to play in Serbia but said that he was keen to explore the AFL option before leaving for Europe.

If I want to forego Serbia, then I will switch sports, he said.

My parents werent the richest people going around when I was growing up.

My mum worked long hours and my dad worked two jobs to keep us afloat, so I probably chose the selfish option with basketball when I had to make the decision between sports.

But AFL is an itch Ive wanted to scratch for a long while.

Worthington played as a ruckman and at centre half-forward as a junior.

You know, just like I enjoy taking a few shots in basketball, I liked to kick a few goals playing footy, he said.

If its going to happen (changing sports), its going to happen within a week.

Courtesy of NBL Australia


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  AUSTRIA   


Oberwart Gunners complete roster with forward Chris Gradnigo - by Stefan Prager (T)

The Oberwart Gunners completed their roster with forward Chris Gradnigo (200-F-89). After signing guard Mario Edwards and forward Darnell Gant Gradnigo is the third new addition for the Austrian champion of 2011. Gradnigo is coming straight from college at Coastal Carolina where he spent his last two seasons after he transferred from La-Lafayette. He appeared in 30 games for the Chanticleers last season putting up 14.6 ppg along with 6.2 rpg. Gradnigo reached the Big South tournament final last season and was selected to the All Big South conference second team.


BC Zepter Vienna brings back Zarko Rakocevic! - by Stefan Prager (T)

BC Zepter Vienna announced that the club has managed top bring back big man Zarko Rakocevic (204-F-84). The Montenegrin center played 11 games for BC Vienna last season and dominated the Austrian league averaging 17.6 ppg along with 13.8 rpg while shooting 64% from the field. Rakocevic moved to Valencia in the Spanish ACB in December where he spent 30 days having a big game in the Eurocup with 20 points and 13 rebounds. After that he moved to Switzerland and played for the Lugano. In 20 appearances for the Tigers he averaged 12.0 ppg along with nearly 8 rebounds per contest. After Benni Danek and Shawn Ray, Rakocevic is the third new addition for BC Vienna.


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  BAHRAIN   


U18 Championship: Iran beat Bahrain for 3-0 recrod in Group F - by Eurobasket News

Bahrain U18-Iran U18 76:87

Iran beat Bahrain for 3-0 record in Group F at the 22nd FIBA Asia U18 Championship. The team celebrated a 87:76 win in Day 4 of the competition.
Iran won the first period 21-16 and continued to dominate the court in the second quarter. They added 25-18 in it for 46:34 advantage at the halftime. Bahrain started to play better in the second half and as a result both teams scored 16 points each in the third period.Moreover Bahrain won the last stanza 26-25 and reduced to final 11 points.
Mohammad Sistani (181-G-86) top-scored for the winners with 26 points and Behnam Yakhchali (191-G-95) nailed 17. Aliyar Najafikharaji (189-SG-94) delivered 10, while Vahid Dalirzahan (199-SF-95) posted 9. Ali Melad (171-F-94) ended up with 19 points in defeat and Sayed Hasan Ali notched 16. Mohammed Buallay (185-F-95) finished the game with 12 points, while Abbas Abdulrasool (196-C-94) scored 7.

Bahrain U18: Ali Melad 19, Sayed Hasan Ali 16, Mohammed Buallay 12, Abbas Abdulrasool 7
Iran U18: Mohammad Sistani 26, Behnam Yakhchali 17, Aliyar Najafikharaji 10, Vahid Dalirzahan 9


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  BOTSWANA   

Standings

D1 Standings
 1. Spartans 11-1 
 2. Troopers 9-5 
 3. Flames 8-3 
 4. Cadets 8-3 
 5. Police 8-4 
 6. Dolphins 4-3 
 7. BDF V 4-8 
 8. Splinters 2-8 
 9. Bullets 2-10 
 10. Saints 1-11 

Regular Season: Round 19

Aug. 24: Spartans - Cadets
Aug. 25: Police - Bullets
Aug. 25: Spartans - Flames
Aug. 25: BDF V - Bullets
Aug. 25: Cadets - Flames



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


Center Darryl Watkins joins Lukoil Academik - by Eurobasket News (T)

Lukoil Academik reinforced its roster under the basket. The reigning Bulgarian champion penned a 1-year deal with Darryl Watkins (211-C-84, college: Syracuse). He arrives to Bulgaria from the NBA team New Orleans Hornets. Watkins played 5 games for the Hornets last season averaging 4.6 points and 5.4 rebounds. He joined them in April. The center started last season with Etha Nicosia leading them to Cypriot championship title. Watkins was named Eurobasket.com All-Cyprus League Player of the Year -12. Watkins played for the Hornets at 2012 NBA Pro Summer League in Las Vegas. In the past, he played in Lebanon, China and NBA D-League. In 2007/08 season, Darryl Watkins was a member of the Sacramento Kings. There he had 1.3 ppg for 9 appearances. The player graduated at Syracuse University five years ago.


*****************************************************
  BURUNDI   


Basketball Burundi - Participation in the Africa Zone 5 (Kampala, UGANDA). August 20th 2012 - by Brice-David Ndayizeye

Burundi participate in the tournament of Africa Zone 5 at kampala , Uganda from 20th to 28th August 2012. Burundi will be represented by Urunani ,2011 Zone 5, champion (males), always considered as favorite after his last performance in the previous edition in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania last year as well as the reinforcement of some good local recruitment as Willy Nijimbere.

It will also be represented by the women's Zone 5 Vice-Champion of the previous edition, Berco Stars, accompanied by the formation of Ngozi province ranked second in the National. Note that this tournament is host more than half a dozen countries in East Africa. Another detail is the absence of star New, Urunani great rival in the championship of Bujumbura, and vice champion of zone 5 in 2010 due to lack of funding.


*****************************************************
  CHINA   


China Crushes Japan 138-73 - by Arthur Volbert

Wang Zhelin (215-C/F-94) scored 36 points, hitting 15 of 18 shots, against vertically-challenged Japan as China won 138-73 in the FIBA U-18 Championship. Japan has one player 200 cm and no others taller than 196 cm. China outrebounded Japan 68-30.

Wang also had 17 rebounds. Yan Jinmeng, Li Qi and Dai Huaibo each scored 15. Luo Hanchen had 14 points, 13 rebounds and 6 assists. Bai Bing had 14 points and 9 rebounds. Li Jinglong scored 11. Wu Qian had 10 points and 7 assists. Zhou Qi had 7 points and 6 rebounds. Han Delong played 19 seconds, indicating his injury is not so serious. Gao Shang did not play.

China shot 60 percent to 29 percent for Japan. China had 23 turnovers to 18 for Japan. Yusei Saiguira had 17 points and 5 rebounds for Japan.

China will play Syria tomorrow. As Syria lost by almost 20 to Lebanon, this should not be a serious challenge. Then it will play undefeated Korea on Wednesday and we'll find out what this team is really made of.

Link to box score:
http://www.fibaasia.net/UserImages/BSF0120128204196.PDF

Other games:
Chinese Taipei 82 Saudi Arabia 41
Philippines 88 Indonesia 52
Iran 87 Bahrain 76
Lebanon 91 Syria 72
Korea 123 India 73

13-16th place
Hong Kong 75 Singapore 64
Mongolia 60 Kazakhstan 52

Standings:
GROUP E
Team W L Pts GA
China (CHN) 3 0 06 1.7562
Korea (KOR) 3 0 06 1.4363
Lebanon (LIB) 2 1 05 1.0044
Syria (SYR) 1 2 04 0.8589
Japan (JPN) 0 3 03 0.7053
India (IND) 0 3 03 0.6124

GROUP F
Team W L Pts GA
Chinese Taipei (TPE) 3 0 06 1.8836
Iran, I.R. (IRI) 3 0 06 1.3168
Philippines (PHI) 2 1 04 1.2319
Indonesia (INA) 1 2 04 0.7008
Bahrain (BRN) 0 3 03 0.8063
Saudi Arabia, K. (KSA) 0 3 03 0.5589


U18 Championship: Wang Zhelin carries China past Japan - by Eurobasket News

China U18 - Japan U18 138:73

China recorded another victory at U18 Asian Championship. They opened Second Stage with a confident win over Japan. Wang Zhelin (215-C/F-94) came up with 36 points and 17 rebounds to lead the winners.
China surged ahead early in the game. They posted a 29:10 lead after ten minutes. The margin grew at 28-point mark at halftime 64:36. China opened the second half on a 26:5 rally and cruised at 102:53 lead at the final intermission. Japan never came back to life allowing China to breeze to the victory. Yang Jinmeng (190-G-95), Li Qi (198-F-95) and Dai Huaibo (205-C/F-94) finished with 15 points each for the winners. Yusei Suguira (194-PF-95) answered with 17 points for Japan. Masahiro Narita (185-SF-94) had 11 points in the loss.

China U18: Wang Zhelin 36+17 boards, Yang Jinmeng 15, Li Qi 15, Dai Huaibo 15
Japan U18: Yusei Suguira 17, Masahiro Narita 11


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


Hajdic signed in Romania! - by Dani Erceg (T)

Marijo Hajdic (206-F/C-89) signed one season deal with Romanian A1 team Perla Harghitei Miercurea Ciuc. Last season he started in Svjetlost Brod where he appeared in 7 games averaging 3.4ppg, 2.0rpg, in January he moved to KK Dubrovnik, played 14 games and averaged 11.5ppg, 4.6rpg and 1.0spg. In 2009. he was member of Croatian U-20 NT in European Championships U20 in Rhodos , played 9 games averaging 5.8ppg, 3.8rpg. In new team he will join Croatian teammates Franko Filipovic and Franjo Bubalo.


Jolly JBS signs two players - by Eurobasket News (T)

Jolly JBS announced singing of a 2-year deal with Marijan Cakarun (90). The team also brought in Luka Petkovic (190-G-88) for the next season.
Young Marijan Cakarun arrives to the club from Borik Puntamika, where he spent last three years. In the latest one he had 11.1 ppg and 5.5 rpg for 28 games in A1. Before Borik, Cakarun played for Jazine Zadar in A2 league.
Luka Petkovic is a product of Sibenka Sibenik, where he played until January of 2010. After that he moved to Siroki and later joined Zagreb for 2010/11. At the middle of the season the guard signed a deal with Svjetlost Slavonski Brod, where he shined with 17.4 ppg, 4.3 rpg and 5.3 apg for 15 games in A1. He was fifth scorer and third assistant of the league. Last season Petkovic started with A2 team GKK Sibenik. He joined Dubrovnik during the season registering 12 ppg, 3 rpg and 2.8 apg for 6 games.


Zvonko Buljan joins Cantu for the training camp - by Eurobasket News (T)

Zvonko Buljan (206-F-87, college: TCU) heads to Italy. The Croatian forward will join Pallacanestro Cantu for the training camp. The player spent last season in Germany. He appeared 28 times in league averaging 6.8 points and 3.6 rebounds. Buljan also played 12 games in EuroChallenge adding 14.5 ppg and 5.9 rpg. He was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-EuroChallenge Honorable Mention -12. Zvonko Buljan played for Cypriot APOEL Nicosia in 2010/11. There he had 11.3 ppg and 7.3 rpg for 12 games in domestic championship. He also collected 10.8 ppg and 7.7 rpg for 6 games in EuroChallenge. The player finished that season with PAOK Thessaloniki. He graduated at the Texas Christian University two years ago.


Cedevita keeps Marko Tomas, who will miss 6-8 weeks - by Eurobasket News

Marko Tomas (201-G-85) stays with Cedevita Zagreb, despite he failed to pass medical examinations. The test revealed foot injury and Tomas will have surgery very soon. He will be back on court in 6-8 weeks and management of Cedevita decided to keep the player. Tomas signed with Cedevita recently. He was a member of Fenerbahce Ulker from 2010 until this summer. However, Tomas missed most of the 2011/12 season due to injury. In 2010/11, the player had 8.5 ppg and 3.1 rpg for 15 Euroleague games. He also added 9.3 ppg, 2.8 rpg and 1.9 apg for 35 games in TBL. Tomas won TBL title and Cup with FB Ulker. In 2009/10, he played for Cibona Zagreb winning the championship title with them. From 2005 to 2007 and later in 2008/09 season Marko Tomas played for Real Madrid. They were ACB league champions in ULEB Cup winners in 2007. In 2007/08, the player was loaned to Fuenlabrada. Tomas is a product of KK Zagreb.


*****************************************************
  CYPRUS   


MaJic Dorsey Signs with Pizza Express Apollon Limassol - by Surujh Roopnarine (T)

Pizza Express Apollon Limassol, who finished in second place last season, falling in the Cyprus Division A semifinals to eventual champions Etha, have signed veteran point guard MaJic Dorsey (185-PG-81, agency: Court Side, college: S.Indiana) for the 2012-13 season. The club will turn to The MaJic Man to help them qualify for the EuroChallenge 2012-13 season, as the club will face off against Xion Dukes Klosterneuburg of Austria on September 25 and then again on October 2. MaJic Dorsey is coming off of perhaps the best, possibly busiest and undoubtedly the most prestigious season of his career. The Baltimore, MD native spent the 2011-12 season in Mexicos LNBP, first with perennial powerhouse Halcones UV Xalapa for a short stint and then with Aguilas Rojas de San Juan del Rio. His 27-game season with Aguillas was something for the record books. Dorsey set the LNBP and FIBA international assist records in consecutive games, handing out 21 and 23 assists respectively. Additionally he led the league in scoring with a 30.5ppg average and was second in steals at 2.1 per game. For his efforts Dorsey was named the FIBA LNBP Sponsor Caliente Player of the Year and Guard of the Year as well as the Latinbasket.com All-Mexican LNBP Player of the Year. Once the season ended for Aguillas in March, Dorsey immediately was on to his next assignment, signing a temporary contract with Duhok of Iraq before returning to Mexico to play for Frayles de Guasave in the CIBACOPA. There in 11 games he averaged 17.3 points, 1.9 rebounds and 4.1 assists while shooting 42.3% from the field and 90.9% from the free-throw line. Most recently Dorsey has been thrilling fans with his stellar play in Ecuador for top-team Mavort Quito of the ECU-National League.
Dorsey signed with Apollon Limassol for one season and in addition to his exploits mentioned above, has played professionally in Venezuela and several US minor leagues, including the NBA D-League. He has started nearly half (72) of the 147 career NBA D-League games he has appeared in over five seasons with averages of 9.1 points, 1.9 rebounds and 3.3 assists.


Pizza express Apollon announces the roster - by Michael Aristidou


Massive activity we have in Pizza Express Apollon Limassol. They announce the roster for the forthcoming season. Totally 14 players announced. In the roster are 6 Cypriots, 4 Americans and 4 EU players.
Those are Canadian-Bosnian guard Diego Kapelan (190-G-87, college: McNeese St.), American center Marvin Jefferson (206-C-86, college: Idaho), Canadian-British forward Kai Williams (198-F-89, college: S.Dakota St.), USA-Dutch forward Gerald Robinson (203-F-84, agency: Court Side, college: Tenn-Martin), Dutch center Robert Krabbendam (213-C-86, agency: Court Side, college: Virginia Tech), American point guard MaJic Dorsey (185-PG-81, agency: Court Side, college: S.Indiana), American forward Brandon Brown (201-F-85, agency: Court Side, college: CS San Bernar.) American guard Jaron Jones (198-G), and Cypriots Grigoris Pantouris (190-G/F-82) (swingman), Stefanos Iliadis (185-PG-94) (guard), Marios Theodosiou, Virardi Rolandos, Pelekanos Andreas, Grivas Konstantinos.


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


Miguel Ortega joins Randers - by Eurobasket News (T)

Randers brought in import player from Spain. The Danish team has agreed on terms of contract with Miguel Ortega (187-PG-91). The point guard played in EBA last season. He was the member of Estela Santander team. His stats read 10.4 points, 2.9 rebounds, 4.0 assists and 2.2 steals per game. Previously Miguel Ortega had stints with Xiria La Coruna, Leyma Basquet Coruna, Ourense, Santurtzi, Unicaja II Malaga. He was the member of U16 and U18 Spanish National Teams. Miguel Ortega will join his compatriot Damian Jimenez (198-F-86) on Randers roster. Randers won Danish 1 Division last season. They won promotion to Ligaen.


*****************************************************
  D-LEAGUE   


NBA D-League Vet MaJic Dorsey Signs with Pizza Express Apollon Limassol - by Surujh Roopnarine (T)

Pizza Express Apollon Limassol, have signed veteran point guard MaJic Dorsey (6'1''-PG-81, agency: Court Side, college: S.Indiana) for the 2012-13 season. The club will turn to The MaJic Man to help them qualify for the EuroChallenge 2012-13 season, as the club will face off against Xion Dukes Klosterneuburg of Austria on September 25 and then again on October 2. MaJic Dorsey is coming off of perhaps the best, possibly busiest and undoubtedly the most prestigious season of his career. The Baltimore, MD native spent the 2011-12 season in Mexicos LNBP, first with perennial powerhouse Halcones UV Xalapa for a short stint and then with Aguilas Rojas de San Juan del Rio. His 27-game season with Aguillas was something for the record books. Dorsey set the LNBP and FIBA international assist records in consecutive games, handing out 21 and 23 assists respectively. Additionally he led the league in scoring with a 30.5ppg average and was second in steals at 2.1 per game. For his efforts Dorsey was named the FIBA LNBP Sponsor Caliente Player of the Year and Guard of the Year as well as the Latinbasket.com All-Mexican LNBP Player of the Year. Once the season ended for Aguillas in March, Dorsey immediately was on to his next assignment, signing a temporary contract with Duhok of Iraq before returning to Mexico to play for Frayles de Guasave in the CIBACOPA. There in 11 games he averaged 17.3 points, 1.9 rebounds and 4.1 assists while shooting 42.3% from the field and 90.9% from the free-throw line. Most recently Dorsey has been thrilling fans with his stellar play in Ecuador for top-team Mavort Quito of the ECU-National League.
Dorsey signed with Apollon Limassol for one season and in addition to his exploits mentioned above, has played professionally in Venezuela and several US minor leagues, including the NBA D-League. He has started nearly half (72) of the 147 career NBA D-League games he has appeared in over five seasons with averages of 9.1 points, 1.9 rebounds and 3.3 assists.


Boston Celtics hire Erie BayHawks' Larranaga - by Eurobasket News (T)

The Boston Celtics have hired Erie BayHawks head coach James Larranaga to work as an assistant coach, sources close to the situation have confirmed.

Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo! Sports tweeted the news shortly before 10 p.m. today. The Erie Times-News confirmed the report with sources close to the situation.

Larranaga led Erie to the D-League playoffs in his two seasons guiding the BayHawks. He couldn't be reached by phone tonight.

Former NBA head coach Mike Fratello had hired Larranaga to work as an assistant under Fratello in coaching the Ukrainian senior men's national team in the qualifying round for the 2013 European Championships.

Larranaga had been scheduled to return to Erie in September to prepare for his third season leading the BayHawks. Larranaga had a year remaining on his contract.

Entering their fifth D-League season, the BayHawks now will search for their third coach. John Treloar was Erie's first head coach before taking a job with the Phoenix Suns as their director of player personnel.

Courtesy of www.goerie.com


*****************************************************
  DOMINICAN REPUBLIC   

Standings - District National

LNB Standings
North Division
 1. Indios SF 10-3 
 2. Metros 7-6 
 3. Huracanes 7-6 
 4. Reales 4-10 
South Division
 1. Caneros 7-6 
 2. Titanes 7-7 
 3. Leones SD 6-6 
 4. Cocolos 5-9 

Regular Season: Round 11

Aug. 19: Cocolos - Reales 94-89
Aug. 18: Huracanes - Cocolos 91-86
Aug. 18: Caneros - Metros 90-91
Aug. 19: Indios SF - Titanes 120-106

Regular Season: Round 12

Aug. 21: Cocolos - Caneros
Aug. 21: Huracanes - Indios SF
Aug. 22: Leones SD - Titanes
Aug. 22: Reales - Metros


Indios S.F.M. sign Jesus Verdejo - by Kerwin Abreu

S.F.M: Indios de San Francisco basketball club signed Jesus Verdejo (193-G-85, college: S.Florida) as the new import player in Joel Joel Jones (196-G/F-81, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Sacramento St.) Camacho substitution. Camacho injured when played vs Cocolos a week ago.

Verdejo is a great shooter and will help Indios de San Francisco team. Right now Indios de San Francisco is the best team in the LNB, with an 11-3 record. Jesus will be making his debut with the team this tuesday when the team faces Huracanes del Atlantico (8-6) in Puerto Plata.

The team also have Tayron Thomas (191-PG-84, college: Philadelphia), Robert Glenn (201-F/C-89, college: IUPUI) as imported players. Edner Elisma (205-F/C-75, college: Georgia Tech) is with the team but as a naturalized player.

Coach David Diaz and GM Luis Elias Esmurdoc are very happy on bringing Verdejo to the team.

"He will give us better defense and an extra long range shooter""I think he will be fine with the team" said GM Luis Esmurdoc.

For more log on masterdeportes.com




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


Mathew Witt close to Budivelnyk - by Eurobasket News (T)

Mathew Witt (183-PG-84, college: E.Kentucky) is close to signing deal with Budivelnyk. The point guard has reportedly agreed on terms of contract with the Kyiv team. Last season Mathew Witt spent in Spain. He played for Knet Roja Clavijo. The guard notched 18.2 points, 4.5 assists, 2.5 rebounds and 1.1 steals per game in LEB Gold. He made it into All-Spanish LEB Gold 3rd Team. Previously Mathew Witt had stints with Guadalajara, Den Helder Seals, Schalke 04. Eurobasket.com named the player LEB Silver Guard of the Year in 2011. He led the team to the LEB Silver title that season. Budivelnyk had to enter the market after the injury of their newcomer Tony Skinn. The Nigerian player would be sidelined for several months and Budivelnyk decided to look for the substitution.


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


Cedevita keeps Marko Tomas, who will miss 6-8 weeks - by Eurobasket News

Marko Tomas (201-G-85) stays with Cedevita Zagreb, despite he failed to pass medical examinations. The test revealed foot injury and Tomas will have surgery very soon. He will be back on court in 6-8 weeks and management of Cedevita decided to keep the player. Tomas signed with Cedevita recently. He was a member of Fenerbahce Ulker from 2010 until this summer. However, Tomas missed most of the 2011/12 season due to injury. In 2010/11, the player had 8.5 ppg and 3.1 rpg for 15 Euroleague games. He also added 9.3 ppg, 2.8 rpg and 1.9 apg for 35 games in TBL. Tomas won TBL title and Cup with FB Ulker. In 2009/10, he played for Cibona Zagreb winning the championship title with them. From 2005 to 2007 and later in 2008/09 season Marko Tomas played for Real Madrid. They were ACB league champions in ULEB Cup winners in 2007. In 2007/08, the player was loaned to Fuenlabrada. Tomas is a product of KK Zagreb.


Partizan signs deal with rookie PF Drew Gordon - by Eurobasket News (T)

Partizan Belgrade announced signing of a 1-year deal with rookie Drew Gordon (205-F-90, college: N.Mexico). The American power forward arrives from the University of New Mexico, where he graduated few months ago. The player had 14 ppg and 11.2 rpg in 34 games as a senior. New Mexico won the MWC Tournament and Gordon was named All-MWC All-Tournament MVP -12. A year ago, the player was named to All-MWC 2nd Team. He had 13 ppg and 10.5 rpg for 26 games that season. Drew Gordon transferred to New Mexico from the UCLA in 2010. In his sophomore season with UCLA the player had 11.2 ppg and 5.3 rpg, but the appeared just 6 times for the school. Gordon was a member of Dallas Mavericks at 2012 NBA Pro Summer League in Las Vegas. He had 4 ppg and 6 rpg. In 2008, he played for the USA Team at Nike Summit Hoop. In 2009, Gordon was on the list of candidates for the USA U19 NT.
The news that Partizan is set to sign Gordon was first reported by Eurobasket correspondent Ivan Milenkovic.


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


Eurobasket.com All-European Championships U18 Awards 2012 - by Eurobasket Center

Eurobasket.com All-Tournament 1st Team
#s#
Dario Saric
Saric
Nikola Radicevic
Radicevic
Mikhail Kulagin
Kulagin
Marius Grigonis
Grigonis
Nikola Jankovic
Jankovic
#e#5

MVP: Dario Saric (208-F/C-94) of Croatia
Best Guard: Nikola Radicevic (194-G-94) of Serbia
Best Forward: Nikola Jankovic (205-PF-94) of Serbia
Best Center: Dario Saric of Croatia
Best Coach: Jaksa Vulic of Croatia

1st Team
G: Nikola Radicevic (194-94) of Serbia
G: Mikhail Kulagin (188-94) of Russia
F: Marius Grigonis (198-94) of Lithuania
PF: Nikola Jankovic (205-94) of Serbia
F/C: Dario Saric (208-94) of Croatia

2nd Team
PG: Kenan Sipahi (198-95) of Turkey
G: Jakov Mustapic (193-94) of Croatia
SF: Aleksandar Vezenkov (205-95) of Bulgaria
PF: Amedeo Tessitori (204-94) of Italy
C: Mouhammadou Jaiteh (206-94) of France

3rd Team
PG: Matic Rebec (180-95) of Slovenia
G: Gregor Hrovat (196-94) of Slovenia
SF: Justas Tamulis (194-94) of Lithuania
F: Dimitrios Agravanis (208-94) of Greece
C: Guillermo Hernangomez (209-94) of Spain

Honorable Mention
Alberto Diaz (190-PG-94) of Spain
Ilimane Diop (209-C-95) of Spain
Alexandre Chassang (203-PF-94) of France
Kris Minkov (198-SF-94) of Bulgaria
Matteo Imbro (192-PG-94) of Italy
Rasmus Larsen (212-C-94) of Denmark
Yevgen Sakhniuk (201-PF-95) of Ukraine
Mikolaj Witlinski (207-F/C-95) of Poland
Mislav Brzoja (196-F/G-94) of Croatia


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


Limoges CSP Elite adds Michel to their roster - by Eurobasket Center (T)

Limoges CSP Elite added to their roster 24-year old center Guy-Marc Michel (213-C-126kg-88, college: Indiana). Michel played most recently at KAO Dramas (Greece). While playing 24 games for KAOD last season he recorded 4.1ppg and 3.5rpg. He graduated Indiana University in 2011 (actually only practiced with the team) and it will be his second season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center


Poitiers ink 1-year deal with Ahmad Nivins - by Eurobasket News (T)

Poitiers announced signing of a 1-year deal with Ahmad Nivins (206-F-87, college: St.Joseph's). The American big guy heads to France from the Belgian team Belfius Mons-Hainaut, where he spent last two seasons. Nivins played 36 league games in the latest one averaging 11.1 points and 4.9 rebounds. He also added 14 ppg and 6.6 rpg for 8 EuroCup appearances. They were Belgian Cup winners in 2011. Before Mons-Hainaut, Ahmad Nivins played one year for Spanish Manresa. He had 7.8 ppg and 4.2 rpg for 13 games in 2009/10 season, but he got injured in December and two sides terminated their deal. It was the first season as a pro for Nivins, who graduated at St.Joseph's University three years ago. He shined with 19.2 ppg and 11.8 rpg for his school in 32 games as a senior. Ahmad Nivins played for the New York Knicks at the 2012 NBA Pro Summer League in Las Vegas. He had 5.5 ppg and 3.5 rpg in 4 games.


Valencia keeps Florent Pietrus (1+1 year deal) - by Eurobasket News (T)

Florent Pietrus (202-F-81) stays with Valencia Basket. The French National Team forward signed 2-year contract extension (1+1). Pietrus appeared 39 times in Liga Endesa last season averaging 3.1 points and 3.2 rebounds. He also added 5.4 ppg and 3.5 rpg for 13 EuroCup games. Valencia reached EuroCup Finals and Liga Endesa Semis. Florent Pietrus arrived to Valencia during the summer of 2008. He left them shortly at the beginning of 2010/11 season, but returned to the club after one month with Caja Laboral. Before Valencia, he played for Estudiantes and Unicaja Malaga. Pietrus is active member of the French National Team since 2002. He appeared 4 times at the Olympics in London averaging 4.5 points and 2.8 rebounds. Pietrus helped France to win the silver medal last summer in Lithuania.


Dejan Sencanski joins Cognac - by Eurobasket News (T)

Dejan Sencanski (198-F-84, college: Abil.Christian) moves to France next season. The forward has agreed on terms of contract with Cognac. Last season Dejan Sencanski spent in Iceland. He played for KR Reykjavik. The Serbian forward notched 15.3 points, 5.4 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 1.3 steals per game. He earned All-Icelandic League Honourable Mention. Dejan Sencanski is not new to France. He spent the first two pro seasons here. The forward had spells for Le Portel and Saint-Quentin Basket-Ball. Dejan Sencanski made it into French NM1 All-Bosmans Team in 2011.


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


Two veterans for Halstenbek/Pinneberg - by Moritz Korff (T)

BG Halstenbek/Pinneberg, newcomer to the 1. Regionalliga North, announced the arrival of a pair of new players for the 2012-13 season. Mac-Davis Duah (186-G/F-76) and Thomas Burow (211-C-81) will add lots of experience to the team. Duah spent 12 years with SC Rist Wedel, he averaged 3.9 points, 2.8 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.5 steals for Rist in the Pro B last season. Burow gained 2. Bundesliga experience at TuS Lichterfelde and SG Braunschweig some years ago. Last season he scored 7.8 points per contest for Braunschweig's second team in the 2. Regionalliga. The signings of Canadian forward Eric Kibi (198-F-90, college: Abil.Christian) and young prospect Janis Stielow (192-G-95) had been announced earlier this summer.


Sebastian Wild: "I was very lucky, having been able to live my dream for the past 8 years" - by Moritz Korff

For six years Sebastian Wild was the only European head coach in NCAA basketball. The 33-year-old ended his tenure at the helm of the women's basketball team at Lees-McRae College this year and returned to his German home, the city of Rostock. Earlier this summer he accepted the job as a head coach of EBC Rostock and plans to take his team and the entire organization to new heights. In an interview with Eurobasket.com Coach Wild talked about the up and coming season in the 1. Regionalliga North, the EBC organization and his journey from Rostock to North Carolina and back.

Moving up to the 2. Bundesliga Pro B has been set as a midterm goal of EBC Rostock. Can you talk about how and when that goal should be achieved and why EBC Rostock would be a good organization to join the Pro B?
Sebastian Wild: At this point that is the goal we as an organization have set for ourselves. With that being said; we are a long ways away from achieving that. I've always been convinced that you have to set lofty goals and construct a plan to reach them. For us here in Rostock that goal is to join the Pro B league within the next 5 years. A lot of positive things have happened here over the course of the past 8 years since I left. We are playing in a state-of-the art arena, there is tremendous support from our fans, and most importantly we have started developing a youth league network in the region that designed to develop talented youngsters to support our team. It's really an exciting time here in Rostock, but with that being said, we will have to move step by step without overexerting ourselves - which means everything will take a few more years.

The summer signings that have been made by the RLN teams so far, including numerous imports from the US and Eastern Europe, bode well for an exciting season in the 1. Regionalliga North, but also for an intense fight for the top spots in the league. Will EBC be in the mix for that?
Wild: I'm obviously not very familiar with the make up of the RLN, but peeking over to some of the other squads in the league, it is obvious that we are up against some fierce competition. Unfortunately we are not even close to competing with those teams in terms of our resources just yet. The quality of our team, as far as I can evaluate it right now, is nowhere close to where it needs to be for us to compete this year. We have lots of work to do. All of our players are working tremendously hard and every single one of our practice sessions thus far has been very spirited - we are getting better no doubt. This year it is all about 'survival' for us. Our only goal is to hopefully collect enough Ws to stay in the RLN. We have lost some key contributors for last year's sixth place team, and up to this point we have not been able to replace them. I do expect us to complete our roster and add some quality within the next few weeks though. All I know is: We will not be outworked! Not in the front office and not on the court.

You kicked off pre season practice some weeks ago: How has team practice been thus far?
Wild: We started practice about 4 weeks ago. However we have only worked in an Individual Skill-work type environment up to this point. That gave me a great opportunity to get to know all the of our personnel much better. In addition our players received a lot of one on one attention and we could spend a great deal on fundamental skill work. I couldn't be happier with how our guys have responded to the 'new intensity' that is demanded of them. They are really embracing the challenge and compete on a daily basis. You can see them improving by the minute. So I really enjoy this 'small group setting' in those workouts. It's what I'm used to since you have about 7 weeks for individual work in the NCAA before you start team sessions. I strongly believe that it is a critical stage of the season, since you lay the foundation and everyone gets so many more repetitions. In the mean time we are still working on our roster for the coming season and hope to be able to start our intense team sessions within the next two weeks.

Many of the players who shaped the face of the EBC Rostock team over the years have crossed or are approaching the 30 years mark: How much of your job includes adding fresh blood to the roster?
Wild: That is absolutely critical. We will need to add some younger pieces in the coming years. Rostock is a beautiful city right at the shore of the Baltic Sea with a highly respected University. We hope we can use that to attract some talented, young players that really want to develop and get a quality education. Some of our key players are at the peak of their basketball careers right now. Many of them have a few more years left, performing at an exceptional level. We want to use those years to build around them and the leadership they bring, with younger contributors to ensure a solid foundation here at the EBC for years to come.

As mentioned most of the ambitious RLN teams have signed one or more import players. Will EBC Rostock do the same or do you think it's possible to be successful in the league playing without the help from outside?
Wild: Great Question. As far as I can tell after only a few weeks, it will definitely be difficult to compete without 'outside help'... Especially with the new regulations in place in the higher leagues. Even teams in the Bundesliga and Pro-A will have to play with more German talent now. I'm convinced that this will drain some of the young, promising 'home grown' talent out of the lower leagues like the RLN. Some of those kids that would have played in our league are getting called up to play a league or two up. This obviously leaves teams at our level with a void. The 'quick fix' would be to bring in Foreign players for a year and go from there. I'm not a big believer in that strategy. We will have to be very creative in our quest to ensure long term success, especially with our slim budget. However, I do have a ton of contacts to high level NCAA coaches all over the U.S. that have become valued friends of mine over the past 8 years and I'm in touch with a ton of proven U.S. talent that were absolute key players on NCAA Tournament-teams and are beyond hungry for an opportunity to play over here, just in case we feel like we want to go into that direction.

Can you talk about your journey as a basketball coach. How you ended up being appointed the head coach of Lees-McRae College and how all these years with the Bobcats have affected your style of coaching and your way of developing players? And what made you return to Rostock?
Wild: I'm not sure how to answer all of that without writing a book. Let's just say I've been very very fortunate over the past 12-13 years. I've been able to establish myself as a young coach here in Germany in the early 2000s, while spending a lot of time in the U.S. back then. I worked a ton of summer top 100 camps on the East Coast and made a lot of connections in the process. I never thought it could lead to a position as a coach at the NCAA level, but I was presented with an opportunity to join a coaching staff in for the 2004 season, which was an absolute dream come true. Two years later I was named the only European Head Coach in all of NCAA basketball. I guess I can say I was very lucky, having been able to live my dream for the past 8 years. On the other hand: Luck is when Opportunity meets preparation. I did work very hard to get to that point and I still do now. It's my passion. The time in North Carolina did mold me a lot; as a person and as a coach. Being able to learn from and compete with some of the top college programs in Nation is a Luxury. I spent countless hours at places like Duke, UNC, Wake Forest, Clemson, NC State, Tennessee, Davidson, the Memphis Grizzlies, Charlotte Bobcats and so on watching practices and meeting with coaches. I loved that time. As you can imagine, you do learn a lot if you approach every day with an open mind. Why EBC Rostock? My Visa was close to running out and I knew that Rostock was probably the only place I would return to, since my family and a ton of friends are still here. There were plenty of inquiries from high level clubs, but I still felt connected to the EBC here, since they opened a lot of doors for me early in my career. I believe the coming years here will be a great challenge for us. There is always tremendous reward in building something special from the ground up - that's what I will try to be a part of here. It won't be easy, that's for sure, but I love challenges.

Obviously there is a huge difference between coaching at the college level and working for a Regionalliga team in Germany. But what can you carry over from your tenure at Lees-McRae to your daily work at EBC Rostock?
Wild: As you probably know there is a huge difference... I'm still having trouble adjusting to it. I guess I am a little spoiled. I do feel like I can instill a different level of professionalism and bring a whole new level of intensity and drive to our program here in Rostock. And at the end, it is just basketball. Many of the on-court aspects will carry over in a way. As coaches you always adjust to personnel and situation anyway... always... so you have to be flexible. I'm still convinced a lot of my unique experiences from the past 8 years will help me a great deal in the process.

How has EBC Rostock developed and grown as an organization throughout the years that you spent in North Carolina?
Wild: Everything here has become a lot more solid. There is tremendous support here now; great crowds. It is a ton of fun to be part of it now. People in leading positions here have done a phenomenal job creating a concept that is very sustainable. We want to continue to grow in a healthy way. Step by Step. The foundation has been created, now it is our job to continue to build. The main thing we do need here is financial support. Literally everything else is in place. We are hoping to find more partners that want to be part of our journey and grow with us.

EBC Rostock is pretty much the one and only basketball club in the state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern that is commonly known and the only ambitious program in the region, regarding men's, women's and youth basketball. Does that help or hurt EBC Rostock's cause?
Wild: It is not ideal. Competition is always good and I'm convinced the lack thereof has slowed our development in recent years quite a bit. If you look closely though, there a number of clubs in the regions now that have started quality youth programs. It'll take a while to develop, but it's the right approach. We are looking forward to partner with those clubs and help take basketball in our region, not just our city to another level.


Anthony Smith Heads To Poiters, France - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

After two seasons in the Beko BBL in Germany, Anthony Smith (196-G-86, college: Liberty) is heading to a new terrain in his professional career to France to play for Poiters. Two seasons ago, the 25 year old 196cm guard from Texas played for the LTi Giessen 46ers (Germany-1.Bundesliga, starting five), injured in Dec.'10, playing 28 games: 11.3ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.3apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 53.0%, 3PT: 32.8%, FT: 60.3%. Last season, Smith was able to improve in many statistical categories playing for the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven (Germany-1.Bundesliga) playing 34 games: 11.8ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 58.8%, 3PT: 33.1%, FT: 68.5%. He scored in double figures 21 times including five games with more than 20 points. His best game was 27 points against his ex team LTi Giessen 46ers.


The Finke Baskets Paderborn Bring In Dorian Mcdaniel - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber (T)

The Finke Baskets Paderborn have brought in a known basketball face in the German basketball community with Dorian McDaniel (198-F-87, college: Prairie View A&M) Mcdaniel is a 25 year old 198cm forward from Culver City, California that will be starting his third professional season in Germany. He recently also got the German citzenship. Last season, he played for the Cuxhaven BasCats (Germany-ProA, starting five): 28 games: 11.9ppg, 4.4rpg, FGP: 53.4%, 3PT: 35.8%, FT: 51.6%. "Dorian Mcdaniel was one of the best German big men last season. When one has the chance to get a player of calibur, then you hav eto get him. We now have a strong four some at the big positions", stressed Finke Baskets sport director Dirk Happe.

Mcdaniel started his basketball career in 2005 at N. Colorado (NCAA). He then played at Prairie View A&M (NCAA) from 2006-2010. In his senior year, he played 29 games: 8.0ppg, 6.0rpg, FGP: 39.1%, 3PT: 37.0%, FT: 55.6%. He played a total of 109 NCAA games. In 2010-2011, he started his professional basketball career in Germany playing for the Duesseldorf Giants (Germany-1.Bundesliga): 24 games: 2.0ppg, 1.3rpg. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been , Five Star Camp (Pittsburgh) "Best Performance"-award -04, Schloss Hagerhof-Camp (Bonn/Germany) MVP -04, and SWAC Tournament Semifinals -09


Source: finke baskets


The Artland Dragons Get Tyler Kepkay For Support - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber (T)

Last week the Artland Dragons got a shock as Lamayn Wilson was released and Demond Mallet got injured, but the team didnt hesitate long bringing in Tyler Kepkay (183-G-87, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Utah) to help fill the void left by Mallet giivng him a one month contract. Kepkay is a 25 year old 187cm guard from Vancouver, Canada that will be starting his fourth professional basketball season and fifth German team. Last season, he played for Science City Jena (Germany-ProA, starting five): 31 games: 15.0ppg, 2.6rpg, 3.2apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 47.6%, 3PT: 30.4%, FT: 85.2%. "We are happy that Tyler has declared himslef ready to help us for this time period. He will help us in practice so that Johannes Strasser and Marquez Haynes dont have to play so many minutes at position one so they can play more their normal positions", stated Dragons head coach Stefan Koch.

Kepkay started his basketball career in 2005 for College of E. Utah (JUCO) where he played until 2007. In 2007-2008, he went to Utah (NCAA) where he played until 2009. In his senior year, he played 34 games: 10.3ppg, 2.5rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 40.9%, 3Pts: 34.6%, FT: 84.5%. In 2009-2010, he started his professional basketball career for ETB Wohnbau Baskets Essen (Germany-ProA, starting five): 26 games: Score-1 (21.5ppg), 4.7rpg, 4.2apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 45.9%, 3PT: 33.9%, FT-2 (89.8%). In 2010-2011, he played for the New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig (Germany-1.Bundesliga), try-outs, in Oct.'10 moved to LTi Giessen 46ers (Germany-1.Bundesliga): 15 games: 3.5ppg, 1.2rpg, 1.0apg; in Feb.'11 signed at Science City Jena (Germany-ProA, starting five): 8 games: 13.3ppg, 3.8rpg, 2.6apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 40.6%, 3PT: 39.1%, FT: 90.0%. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been HS: league championship and a third-place finish at the Provincial Tournament, JUCO: First-Team Junior College All-America honors -07, MWC Tournament Semifinals -08, Canadian National Team -08-09, MWC Tournament Winner -09, MWC Regular Season Co-Champion -09, All-MWC Honorable Mention -09, Marchand Cup -09: 2 games: 1.5ppg, 3PT: 100.0%, FIBA Americas in San Juan (Puerto Rico) -09 (Semifinals): 10 games: 4.0ppg, 1.7rpg, 1.5apg, 1.0spg, and Eurobasket.com All-German 2.Bundesliga Pro A Honorable Mention -10

Source: Artland Dragons


Miah Davis Back In The Beko BBL With The New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber (T)


It has been 5 long years since Jeremiah Davis (183-PG-81, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Pacific) played in the Beko BBL and was an important puzzle piece for helping the Telekom Baskets Bonn reach the Beko BBL final, but he is back as he signed a contract with the New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig. Davis is a 31 year old 183cm guard from Bremerton, Washington. He is a very quick guard. He is a good shooter, and has improved his three point shot. He is a combination guard who can play both positions. He is really playing hard and getting ready to fight. He has always been ready to play and excited about playing even at age 31. Last season, he played for Stella Artois Leuven Bears (Belgium-D1): 36 games: 5.1ppg, 1.4rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 44.2%, 3PT: 40.7%, FT: 70.3%. "Miah is a player that I know and a guy that I know will give the team a lot. He is a good defender that knows how to combine it with a good organization in the offense", stressed Phantoms head coach Kostas Flevarakis.

Davis started his basketball career in 1999 with Modesto JC (NJCAA). In 2000-2001, he played for Cal.St.-Stanislaus (NCAA2): 25 games: 15.5ppg, 5.0rpg, 2.7apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 47.4%, 3PT: 32.3%, FT: 82.2%. He then played fro Pacific (NCAA) from 2001-2004. In his senior year, he played 32 games: ScoreConf-6 (14.7ppg), 3.7rpg, 3.1apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 46.4%, 3PT: 46.4%, FTConf-3 (83.9%). He started his professional basketball career in 2004 with Roanoke Dazzle (NBDL): 46 games: 5.4ppg, 2.5rpg, 3.5apg, FGP: 33.3%, 3PT: 27.8%, FT: 74.0%. He then played for : Energa Czarni Slupsk (Poland-EBL) from 2005-2007. In 2007-2008, he moved to Germany and played for the Telekom Baskets Bonn (Germany-1.Bundesliga, starting five): 46 games: 8.3ppg, 2.2rpg, 2.5apg, 2FGP: 44.2%, 3PT: 31.1%, FT: 76.4%. In 2008-2009, he played for PBG Basket Poznan (Poland-1Liga, starting five): 23 games: 11.3ppg, 2.3rpg, 3.9apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 50.4%, 3PT: 27.6%, FT: 88.5%. In 2009-2010, he played with ex Frankfurt Skyliner and 2012 French cup winner Ilian Evtimov at Proteas EKA AEL Limassol (Cyprus-Division A, starting five): EuroChallenge: 12 games: 9.0ppg, 2.6rpg, 2.9apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 56.4%, 3PT: 31.0%, FT: 80.4%: Assists-3 (56 ast), Steals-2 (33 steals), FT-5 (83.0%) In 2010-2011, he started the season with Cytavision APOEL (Cyprus-Division A, starting five): EuroChallenge: 6 games: 14.8ppg, 1.8rpg, 3.3apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 51.4%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 89.7%; Cypriot League: Cyprus League: 15 games: 15.1ppg, 3.3rpg, 2.7apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 50.4%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 77.5%; EuroCup Qualifying Round: 2 games: 7.5ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.5apg, in Mar.'11 moved to Ilysiakos Athens (Greece-A1, starting five): 4 games: 10.8ppg, 1.8rpg, 2.5apg, 1.3spg. "The BBL is a very good league and I have good memories of it. I am happy that coach Flevarakis took me and I will give my best", warned Miah Davis. Awards/Achievements in bis basketball career have been Second Team All-California Collegiate Athletic Association -01, BWC Regular Season Runner-Up -04, BWC Tournament Champion -04, BWC All-Tournament Team -04, All-BWC 1st Team -04, All-BWC Player of the Year -04, NBDL Semifinals -05, Polish League All-Star Game -06, 07, Polish League Semifinals -06Eurobasket.com All-Polish League 1st Team -06, Eurobasket.com Polish League All-Imports Team -06, Eurobasket.com Polish League All-Defensive Team -06, Polish Cup Semifinals -07, German Bundesliga Finalist -08, Cyprus Super Cup Winner -09, 11, Eurobasket.com All-Cyprus League 2nd Team -10, 11, Eurobasket.com Cyprus League All-Defensive Team -10, 11, Cyprus League Finalist -10, Cyprus League Regular Season Champion -10, Eurobasket.com Cyprus League All-Imports Team -11, and Belgian Cup Semifinals -12


Source: New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig



Sharrod Ford Signs With The Brose Baskets Bamberg - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber (T)

Brose Baskets Bamberg manager Wolfgang Heyder has told Radio Bamberg that Sharrod Ford (206-F/C-82, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Clemson) will join the Euroleague team for the 2012-2013 season. Ford is a 30 year old 206cm power forward/center from Maryland that returns back to the Beko BBL after having played with Alba Berlin back in the 2005-2007 season. Last season the American played for FC Bayern Muenchen (Germany-1.Bundesliga)left in pre-season, in Feb.'12 moved to Erie Bay Hawks (D-League): 6 games: 9.0ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.2apg, 1.8bpg, FGP: 44.0%, FT: 66.7%. "Sharrod Ford signed the contract last night. He had many offers, two from Turkey and one from Italy. We are very happy that we were able to get him", stressed Bamberg manager Wolfgang Heyder .

Ford started his basketball career for Gwynn Park High School in Brandywine, MD in 1999 averaging 15.8 points and 12 rebounds per game. Before going into teh NCAA, he played a year at Hargrave Military Academy in Virginia: averaging 18 points and 10.3 rebounds per game. He played at Clemson form 2001-2005 playing a total of 118 games. In his senior year, he played 32 games: 14.9ppg, 8.2rpg, 1.1apg, 2.1bpg, FGP: 51.2%. He started his professional career in 2005 playing for the Phoenix Suns (NBA): Regular Season: 3 games: 1.3ppg, in Jan.'06 moved to Fayetteville Patriots (D-League, starting five): 15 games: 13 ppg, 8.4 rpg, 1.4 bpg and 1.1 apg, next month joined ALBA Berlin (Germany-1.Bundesliga, starting five): 21 games: 8.9ppg, 5.0rpg, 1.4bpg, 2FGP: 58.9%. In 2006-2007, he played for ALBA Berlin (Germany-1.Bundesliga, starting five): German League: 36 games: 11.8ppg, 6.9rpg, Blocks-2 (2.3bpg), 2FGP: 56.6%, 3FGP: 27.3%, FT: 63.4%; ULEB Cup: 12 games: 9.4ppg, 6.8rpg, 1.1spg, Blocks-1 (2.5bpg), 2FGP: 51.2%, 3FGP: 25%, FT: 57.9%. In 2007-2008, he played for Premiata Montegranaro (Italy-SerieA, starting five): 39 games: 14.2ppg,Reb-1 (9.8rpg), 1.1spg, Blocks-1 (1.5bpg), 2FGP-2 (67.4%), 3PT:23.1%, FT:63.6%. In 2008-2009, he played for La Fortezza Bologna (Italy-SerieA, starting five): Italian League: 34 games: 11.4ppg, Reb-1 (9.5rpg), 2.0spg, Blocks-1 (1.7bpg), FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 18.2%, FT: 60.2%; EuroChallenge: 16 games: 13.5ppg, 6.8rpg, Blocks-1 (2.0bpg), FGP: 63.6%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 63.6%. In 2009-2010, he played for Spartak St.Petersburg (Russia-A Superleague, starting five): 4 games: 7.8ppg, 6.0rpg, 1.0spg; in Jan.'10 moved to Carife Ferrara (Italy-SerieA) playing 17 games: Score-4 (16.6ppg), Reb-1 (9.8rpg), 2.1spg, Blocks-1 (3.1bpg), FGP: 58.1%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 65.7%. In 2010-2011, he returned back to Italy playing for Fabi Shoes Montegranaro (Italy-SerieA, starting five): 30 games: Score-5 (15.8ppg), Reb-1 (10.4rpg), 1.6spg, Blocks-1 (2.3bpg), FGP: 55.6%, 3PT: 16.7%, FT: 67.9%. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been HS first-team All-Metro by Washngton Post -00, United States team in the Global Games in Dallas -01, All-ACC 3rd Team -05, ACC All-Defensive Honorable Mention -05, German Bundesliga Cup Winner -06, German Bundesliga Regular Season Champion -06, 07, German Bundesliga Finalist -06, German Bundesliga All-Star Game -07, Eurobasket.com All-ULEB Cup 2nd Team -07, Eurobasket.com ULEB Cup All-Imports Team -07, Eurobasket.com All-German Bundesliga 2nd Team -07, Eurobasket.com German Bundesliga All-Defensive Team -07, Eurobasket.com All-Italian SerieA 2nd Team -08Eurobasket.com Italian SerieA All-Imports Team -08, 10, 11, Eurobasket.com Italian SerieA All-Defensive Team -08, 10, Italian Cup Finalist -09, EuroChallenge Champion -09, Eurobasket.com All-Italian SerieA Center of the Year -10, 11, Eurobasket.com All-Italian SerieA 1st Team -10, 11, and Italian Cup Semifinals -11

Source: Radio Bamberg


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  HOLLAND   


European Championships U18: Holland clinched 9th place in Division B - by Fred Roggen

Holland clinched 9th place in Division B as in the last game they beat Portugal 74:61. The Dutch side took the higher spot as Portugal finished on the 10th position. Both teams hoped for the higher place and deserved it. They showed great game at the tournament and looked well in Sarajevo. Holland started with 18-12 and added massive 24-11 in the second period. Moreover they produced 19-15 in the third quarter as Bouwknecht closed the frame at 61:38. Gameiro and Julius van Sauers opened the fourth frame for each side and then Diogo Ventura (189-PG-94) cut it to 67:45. Jito Kok (205-C-94) made it 71:47 and B. van Vliet closed the game at 74:61. Shane Hammink (198-F-94) and Jito Kok top-scored for the winners with 15 points each. Diogo Ventura replied with 18 points in defeat, while Andre Miguens (184-SF-94) added 7.


Gerald Robinson signs deal with Apollon Limassol - by Fred Roggen (T)

Dutch forward Gerald Robinson (203-F-84, agency: Court Side, college: Tenn-Martin), reached an agreement with Pizza express Apollon Limassol signing a one-year deal with the Cypriot powerhouse. Robinson arrives from Landstede Zwolle, where he averaged 12.3ppg, Reb-3 (8.0rpg), FGP: 41.4%, 3PT: 27.6%, FT: 60.3% in 32 Dutch Basketball League games last season. He helped Landstede Zwolle to reach the semifinals of the playoffs. Robinson has also played for Alerta Cantabria Lobos in Spain, Airwaves Plymouth Raiders in United Kindom, USC Freiburg in Germany and Haukar in Iceland since finishing his career at University of Tennessee at Martin (NCAA.



Aris Leeuwarden inks vet Robert Holcomb Faye - by Fred Roggen (T)

Aris Leeuwarden announced a big signing over the weekend as the Dutch team added veteran guard Robert Holcomb Faye (185-G-84, college: Radford) for the next season. Holcomb Faye arrives from Mitteldeutscher BC Weissenfels (Germany-ProA), where he became champion in the German Pro-A and averaged 9.6ppg, 2.1rpg, Assists-5 (4.4apg), FGP: 52.8%, 3PT: 29.2%, FT: 74.8% last season.
He played college ball for Radford University from 2002 to 2006 and in 2006 he moved to Europe to join 1 FC Kaiserslautern in Germany. Holcomb Faye played six seasons in Germany and is kown as a hard-nosed competitor.



Landstede Zwolle lands guard Josh Magette - by Fred Roggen (T)

Landstede Zwolle announced the addition of guard Josh Magette (185-G-90) to a one-year deal. Magette started his career at the University of Alabama-Huntsville, where he averaged 12.7ppg, 5.4rpg, 8.9apg, 2.7spg, FGP: 49.3%, 3Pts: 43.0%, FT: 80.2% in 33 games last season.
Magette finished his college basketball career at University of Alabama-Huntsville, where he was named All-GSC Co-Player of the Year, All-GSC All-Tournament MVP and was selected to All-GSC 1st Team.



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  HONG KONG   


U18 Championship: Hong Kong celebrate first win - by Eurobasket News

Hong Kong U18 - Singapore U18 75:64

Hong Kong celebrated the first win at the U18 Asia Championship. They knocked down Singapore to set up the clash versus Mongolia for the 13th place at the tournament. Choi kwan Tsai came up with 21 points to lead Hong Kong. Singapore will take on Kazakhstan in the final game at the tournament.
Hong Kong eked out an 18:14 lead after ten minutes of action. They maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. Hong Kong ensured a 37:34 halftime advantage. Singapore stayed close throughout the third quarter. They narrowed the margin at one-point mark at the final intermission 51:52. Hong Kong cleared off early in the final stanza. They opened an 8-point lead and marched to the victory at the end. Chang Yiu-Fai (168-PG-94) delivered 15 points for Hong Kong. Ho Chun Kit (191-C-95) had 16 points and 8 rebounds in the victory. Low Remus (183-F-94) answered with 17 points for Singapore. Loon Tay Ding (185-PF-94) had 16 points and 10 rebounds in the loss.

Hong Kong U18: Tsai Choi Kwan (186-SF-95) 21, Ho Chun Kit 16, Chang Yiu-Fai 15
Singapore U18: Low Remus 17, Loon Tay Ding 16+10 boards


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  INDIA   


U18 Championship: South Korea dismantle India - by Eurobasket News

South Korea U18 - India U18 123:73

South Korea kept their spotless record at U18 Asia Championship. They outgunned India at the start of the Second Stage of the tournament today. Jonghyun Lee (206-C-94) delivered 29 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists to lead the winners.
South Korea unloaded 35 points in the opening quarter to take off. They grabbed a 12-point lead and stretched the margin in the second quarter. The Korean team ensured a 32-point lead at the interval 64:32. South Korea kept India at bay throughout the third term. The margin grew at 37-point mark at the final intermission. South Korea did not slow down in the fourth period and raced to the victory at the end. Gibeom Cheon (187-G-94) netted 17 points, while Sangjae Kang and Seongmo Choi (187-G-94) provided 15 points each in the win. Amit Kanarjee (187-PG-94) replied with 25 points for India. Rakesh Singh (198-PF-95) had 12 points and 11 rebounds in the loss.

South Korea U18: Jonghyun Lee 29, Gibeom Cheon 17, Sanghjae Kang 15, Seongmo Choi 15
India U18: Amit Kanarjee 25, Rakesh Singh 12+11 boards


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  INDONESIA   


U18 Championship: Philippines rout Indonesia in Ulaanbaatar - by Eurobasket News

Indonesia U18-Philippines U18 62:88

Philippines rout Indonesia in Ulaanbaatar at the 22nd FIBA Asia U18 Championship.The winning side celebrated 88:62 win in the start of the fourth day. Philippines improved to 2-1 record, while Indonesia fell at 1-2 record at a newly created Group F.
Philippines started better and reached 23-18 after the first period. They increased to 10 more points at the halftime after 22-12 in the second frame. Moreover the winners scored another 22 points in the third period and grabbed 67:48 advantage after three quarters played. Moreover they finished the game with 21-14 in the last stanza to seal the victory.
Jerie Pingoy (175-G-94) paced all the winners with 16 points and Mario Bonleon (183-F-94) netted 15. Rey Nambatac (179-G-94) delivered 11, while Rashleigh-Paolo Rivero (188-F-95) and Kristoffer Porter (198-C-94) scored 8 each. Jan Panagan (179-G-94) ended up with 12 points in the losing effort and Andre Adrianno (175-G-94) poured in 11. Rivaldo Pangesthio (186-F-96)and Vicent Kosasih (202-C-96) followed them with 9 points apiece.

Indonesia U18: Jan Panagan 12, Andre Adrianno 11, Rivaldo Pangesthio 9, Vicent Kosasih 9
Philippines U18: Jerie Pingoy 16, Mario Bonleon 15, Rey Nambatac 11, Rashleigh-Paolo Rivero 8, Kristoffer Porter 8


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  IRAN   


U18 Championship: Iran beat Bahrain for 3-0 recrod in Group F - by Eurobasket News

Bahrain U18-Iran U18 76:87

Iran beat Bahrain for 3-0 record in Group F at the 22nd FIBA Asia U18 Championship. The team celebrated a 87:76 win in Day 4 of the competition.
Iran won the first period 21-16 and continued to dominate the court in the second quarter. They added 25-18 in it for 46:34 advantage at the halftime. Bahrain started to play better in the second half and as a result both teams scored 16 points each in the third period.Moreover Bahrain won the last stanza 26-25 and reduced to final 11 points.
Mohammad Sistani (181-G-86) top-scored for the winners with 26 points and Behnam Yakhchali (191-G-95) nailed 17. Aliyar Najafikharaji (189-SG-94) delivered 10, while Vahid Dalirzahan (199-SF-95) posted 9. Ali Melad (171-F-94) ended up with 19 points in defeat and Sayed Hasan Ali notched 16. Mohammed Buallay (185-F-95) finished the game with 12 points, while Abbas Abdulrasool (196-C-94) scored 7.

Bahrain U18: Ali Melad 19, Sayed Hasan Ali 16, Mohammed Buallay 12, Abbas Abdulrasool 7
Iran U18: Mohammad Sistani 26, Behnam Yakhchali 17, Aliyar Najafikharaji 10, Vahid Dalirzahan 9


2012 William Jones Cup: Iran beat Taiwan for third victory in a row - by Eurobasket News

Iran - Taiwan 75:64

Iran registered the third straight win at 2012 William Jones Cup. They defeated hosting Taiwan to stay on top of the ladder. Samad Nik Khahbahrami (198-F-83) came up with 30 points and 9 rebounds to lead the winners. Taiwan fell at 1-2 record after the defeat.
Iran surged ahead to take a 22:17 lead at the first break. Iran held Taiwan to 10 points in the second quarter to ensure a 15-point lead at halftime. Taiwan managed to cut the deficit in the third quarter. They got within 11 points at the final intermission. The teams traded baskets throughout the final frame as Iran rallied to the victory. Hamed Afagh (190-SG-83) accounted for 21 points, while Oshin Sahakian (200-F-86) added 9 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Tsung-Hsien Chang (192-G-87), Lin Chih-Chieh (192-G-82) and Lu Cheng-Ju (194-F-86) delivered 12 points each for Taiwan.

Iran: Samad Nik Khahbahrami 30, Hamed Afagh 21, Oshin Sahakian 9+10 boards
Taiwan: Tsung-Hsien Chang 12, Lin Chih-Chieh 12, Lu Cheng-Ju 12


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  ISRAEL   


Omri Casspi denies he's being sent packing - by Eurobasket News

Omri Casspi (6'9''-SF-88), the first Israeli-born basketball player to make the NBA, denied Monday that his contract is being bought out by the Cleveland Cavaliers, as a reporter with Fox 8 news in Cleveland tweeted late Sunday.

@JohnTelich8
john telich
Source: #Cavs likely to buy out Omri Casspi from contract. Hearing this may be a mutual desire.

According to the report, the decision to leave the Cavs was mutual but Casspis agent said he would remain and fight for his place on the court.

The forward spent only one lockout-shortened year in Cleveland and reportedly fell out of favor of coach Byron Scott, who halfway through the lackluster season said Casspi was having a hard time learning the playbook.

Casspi entered the NBA as a low first round pick by the Sacramento Kings in 2009, to much local fanfare. He spent two years in California, including time as a starter, before being traded to Cleveland.

Though only a modest success in the worlds top basketball league, Casspi was a perpetual fan favorite with Jewish communities in the United States and Canada, whether at home or on the road.

The Jewish community - wherever we go, west or east - there are a lot of people with flags, Casspi told the Times of Israel earlier this year. They come to support me, invite me for holidays.

Courtesy of www.timesofisrael.com


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  ITALY   


Napoli-Sant'Antimo inks young Antonello Ricci - by Eurobasket News (T)

Antonello Ricci (190-PG-92) is a new member of Napoli-Sant'Antimo. The 20-year-old Italian point guard signed a deal for the next season. Ricci arrives to his new club from Banca Tercas Teramo, where he spent last three years. The player appeared 21 times in SerieA last season, but he had very limited playing time. He averaged 1.3 points. Ricci was promoted to the senior squad something more than a year ago. He played 3 SerieA games in 2010/11 and most of the season he spent with Teramo juniors. The PG played for their juniors in 2009/10 as well. In the past, Antonello Ricci was a member of Teate Chieti and Scavoloni junior team. In 2008, he was a member of Italian U16 National Team. Ricci played 6 games for them at U16 EuroBasket in Italy averaging 5.3 points, 2.5 rebounds and 1.5 assists. He was also on the list of candidates for U16 NT in 2007, but didn't make it to the roster for the EuroBasket.


Zvonko Buljan joins Cantu for the training camp - by Eurobasket News (T)

Zvonko Buljan (206-F-87, college: TCU) heads to Italy. The Croatian forward will join Pallacanestro Cantu for the training camp. The player spent last season in Germany. He appeared 28 times in league averaging 6.8 points and 3.6 rebounds. Buljan also played 12 games in EuroChallenge adding 14.5 ppg and 5.9 rpg. He was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-EuroChallenge Honorable Mention -12. Zvonko Buljan played for Cypriot APOEL Nicosia in 2010/11. There he had 11.3 ppg and 7.3 rpg for 12 games in domestic championship. He also collected 10.8 ppg and 7.7 rpg for 6 games in EuroChallenge. The player finished that season with PAOK Thessaloniki. He graduated at the Texas Christian University two years ago.


Bologna announce Kenny Hasbrouck - by Eurobasket News (T)

Virtus Bologna announced the signing of Kenny Hasbrouck (191-G-86, college: Siena). The guard penned deal for the next season. Last season Kenny Hasbourck spent in Germany. He played for EWE Baskets Oldenburg. The guard notched 10.7 points, 2.9 rebounds and 1.5 assists per game in 1.Bundesliga. Kenny Hasbrouck also delivered 11.5 points, 2.4 rebounds, 2.1 steals and 1.6 assists per game in EuroChallenge. Eurobasket.com named the guard into German Bundesliga All-Imports Team. Previously Kenny Hasbourck had stints with Alicante and Rio Grande Valley Vipers. The guard graduated from the Siena College in 2009. He was named MAAC Player of the Year. Kenny Hasbrouck earned AP NCAA All-America Honourable Mention in his seniors season.


Andrea Pecile stays with Biancoblu Conad Bologna - by Eurobasket News (T)

Andrea Pecile (187-PG-80) stays with Biancoblu Conad Bologna for the next season. The player joined the team last seaosn and announced staying for another year. Last season for the team he averaged 12.9ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.5apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 46.5%, 3PT: 31.7%, FT: 86.1%.
In 2011 Effe Biancoblu Bologna announced signing of Andrea Pecile. Andrea Pecile headed to his new club from Fileni BPA Jesi, where he spent 2010/11. He played 23 games for them in LegaDue averaging 15.7 points, 4.1 rebounds, 1.8 assists and 1.8 steals. For his performance Pecile was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Italian Lega2 Honorable Mention -11. Before Jesi, he spent one year with Edilizia Moderna Rimini. There Pecile had 8.2 ppg, 2.1 rpg and 2.1 apg for 17 games in LegaDue. In the past, the Italian PG played for Breogan, Cajasol, Granada, Air Avelino, Montepaschi Siena and Scavolini. He also played for the Italian NT from 2000 to 2006.


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  JAPAN   


U18 Championship: Wang Zhelin carries China past Japan - by Eurobasket News

China U18 - Japan U18 138:73

China recorded another victory at U18 Asian Championship. They opened Second Stage with a confident win over Japan. Wang Zhelin (215-C/F-94) came up with 36 points and 17 rebounds to lead the winners.
China surged ahead early in the game. They posted a 29:10 lead after ten minutes. The margin grew at 28-point mark at halftime 64:36. China opened the second half on a 26:5 rally and cruised at 102:53 lead at the final intermission. Japan never came back to life allowing China to breeze to the victory. Yang Jinmeng (190-G-95), Li Qi (198-F-95) and Dai Huaibo (205-C/F-94) finished with 15 points each for the winners. Yusei Suguira (194-PF-95) answered with 17 points for Japan. Masahiro Narita (185-SF-94) had 11 points in the loss.

China U18: Wang Zhelin 36+17 boards, Yang Jinmeng 15, Li Qi 15, Dai Huaibo 15
Japan U18: Yusei Suguira 17, Masahiro Narita 11


2012 William Jones Cup: Japan tastes the first success - by Eurobasket News

Taiwan B-Japan 50:85

Japan tastes the first success at 2012 William Jones Cup. The team improved to 1-2 record after an 85:50 win. Taiwan B meanwhile suffered the third straight loss.
Japan took 20-14 in the opening period and added 20-10 in the second frame. The team also dominated the second half and won the third and the last quarters. Japan produced 22-15 in the third period and finished the game with 23-11 in the last stanza.
Yuya Nagayoshi (199-C-91) and Tenketsu Harimoto (198-C/F-92) top-scored for the winners with 16 points each. Daiki Tanaka (191-F-91) nailed 14, while Takahiro Kurihara (192-G/F-87) posted 8. Chen Che-Yu (184-G-91) and Sung Yu-Hsuan (183-G-89) ended up with 14 points each, whilst Lin Chieh-Min (183-G-88) had 12.
In Day 4 Japan will face Jordan, while Taiwan B will play against USA team.

Taiwan B: Chen Che-Yu 14, Sung Yu-Hsuan 14, Lin Chieh-Min 12
Japan: Yuya Nagayoshi 16, Tenketsu Harimoto 16, Daiki Tanaka 14, Takahiro Kurihara 8


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  JORDAN   


2012 William Jones Cup: Jordan keep Lebanon winless - by Eurobasket News

Jordan-Lebanon 87:68

Jordan keep Lebanon winless at the 2012 William Jones Cup. Jordan needed 87:68 win to improve to 1-1 record. Lebanon meanwhile lost the third consecutive game and dropped at 0-3 record.
Lebanon started with 22-16, but failed in the rest of the game. Jordan replied with 23-18 in the second period and reduced to 1 point at the halftime. The third quarter was decisive in the game as Jordan erupted with 33-13 in the third period for a comfortable lead. Both teams nailed 15 points each in the final quarter for the final result.
Rasheim Wright (192-G-81, college: District of Col.) top-scored for the winners with 27 points and Hussein Mohammad collected 22 points and 16 rebounds. Ahmed AL HAMARSHEH followed them with 9 points each in a win. Ahmad IBRAHIM and Elie STEPHAN finished the game with 20 points each. Jarrid Famous (209-C/F-88, college: S.Florida) had 15 points and 11 rebounds, while Ali Kanaan (207-C/F-85, college: Mass.-Lowell) added 10.

Jordan: Rasheim Wright 27, Hussein Mohammad 22+16 rebs, Ahmed AL HAMARSHEH 9
Lebanon: Ahmad IBRAHIM 20, Elie STEPHAN 20, Jarrid Famous 15+11 rebs, Ali Kanaan 10


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  KAZAKHSTAN   


U18 Championship: Mongolia beat Kazakhstan in the start of the Classification Round - by Eurobasket News

Mongolia U18-Kazakhstan U18 60:52

Mongolia beat Kazakhstan in the start of the Classification Round at the 22nd FIBA Asia U18 Championship. The home side overcame the visiting team 60:52.
Mongolia grabbed 10-8 lead in the middle of the first period and enjoyed 20-13 at the end of it. They increased to 8 points midway through the second frame and had 41:27 at the halftime. Kazakhstan reduced to 10 points with 5 minutes to go in the third quarter and trailed 47:39 after three quarters. No matter how hard they tried to step closer, they could not catch up with the opponents. Mongolia took the 8-point victory and satisfied the fans.
Enkhtaivan Chinzorig (188-C-95) top-scored for the winners with 15 points and Khash-Erdene Doniddemberei collected 13 points and 16 boards. Munkhnasan Lkhamjav (180-G-94) notched 11, while Anar-Erdene Khureltogoo (175-PG-94) added 10. Alexey Kurochka (185-G-94) replied with 18 points and Maxim Marchuk (195-F/G-94) had 15 points and 18 boards.

Mongolia U18: Enkhtaivan Chinzorig 15, Khash-Erdene Doniddemberei 13+16 rebs, Munkhnasan Lkhamjav 11, Anar-Erdene Khureltogoo 10
Kazakhstan U18: Alexey Kurochka 18, Maxim Marchuk 15+18 rebs


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


Wael Arakji leads Lebanon to an easy win over Syria - by Maarouf Mawloud

WABA teams Lebanon and Syria entered Mondays locked at identical 1-1 record making the result of the game very critical to eithers chances for a place in the quarterfinals.

Lebanon looked better organized in their defense and more cohesive in their offense, but Syria breathed hard on their necks throughout the game.

Wael Arakji (192-G-94) had another field day in shooting 11/19 for his 33 points to lead Lebanons win along with 9 rebounds. Jimmy Salem and Hanna Nemer each had 11 points.

Mahmoud Trabs 23 points paced Syria. Mohamad Shahin and Mohamad Hashem each pulled down 9 rebounds the former also scoring a dozen points.


U18 Championship: Lebanon take care of Syria - by Eurobasket News

Lebanon U18 - Syria U18 91:72

Lebanon opened win count at the Second Stage of U18 Asia Championship. They knocked down Syria in Group E to improve at 2-1 record. Wael Arakji (192-G-94) stepped up with 33 points and 9 rebounds for the winners.
Lebanon cleared off to a 7-poitn lead after ten minutes 20:13. Syria narrowed the gap in the second quarter. They got within just five points at halftime 34:39. But Lebanon managed to boost their lead in the third term. They held Syria to 14 points in the quarter and ensured a 12-point buffer heading into the fourth frame. Lebanon fired 31 points in the final stanza to seal the victory. Jimmy Salem (190-G-95) and Hanna Nemer (177-G-94) contributed 11 points each for the winners. Mahmmoud Trub (195-F-94) responded with 23 points for Syria. Mourad Hashim (176-G-95) had 12 points and 9 rebounds in the loss.

Lebanon U18: Wael Arakji 33, Jimmy Salem 11, Hanna Nemer 11
Syria U18: Mahmmoud Trub 23, Mourad Hashim 12


2012 William Jones Cup: Jordan keep Lebanon winless - by Eurobasket News

Jordan-Lebanon 87:68

Jordan keep Lebanon winless at the 2012 William Jones Cup. Jordan needed 87:68 win to improve to 1-1 record. Lebanon meanwhile lost the third consecutive game and dropped at 0-3 record.
Lebanon started with 22-16, but failed in the rest of the game. Jordan replied with 23-18 in the second period and reduced to 1 point at the halftime. The third quarter was decisive in the game as Jordan erupted with 33-13 in the third period for a comfortable lead. Both teams nailed 15 points each in the final quarter for the final result.
Rasheim Wright (192-G-81, college: District of Col.) top-scored for the winners with 27 points and Hussein Mohammad collected 22 points and 16 rebounds. Ahmed AL HAMARSHEH followed them with 9 points each in a win. Ahmad IBRAHIM and Elie STEPHAN finished the game with 20 points each. Jarrid Famous (209-C/F-88, college: S.Florida) had 15 points and 11 rebounds, while Ali Kanaan (207-C/F-85, college: Mass.-Lowell) added 10.

Jordan: Rasheim Wright 27, Hussein Mohammad 22+16 rebs, Ahmed AL HAMARSHEH 9
Lebanon: Ahmad IBRAHIM 20, Elie STEPHAN 20, Jarrid Famous 15+11 rebs, Ali Kanaan 10


Homentmen to reveal its new team for the upcoming season & A new format for the Division One Championship - by Asia-Basket Lebanon

After a disappointing season in the Lebanese Division Two championship Homentmen Beirut is working to forget last seasons failure and to build a strong team to go back to the First division after many years of absence.
For this reason the team kept Mario Abboud , Roudi Farraj and signed Sagesse ex player the guy that never stops on Defense Joe Ghatas, they have added a player who was doing great in the Division Two in the past seasons Micheal El Nar and finally they brought another youngster from Canada who used to play in Lebanon Vartkez Mendilian, he will handle the point position .
The word is Coach Fouad Abou Chakra is building the team and that Coach Tony Kara will take over in the Division Two Championship.
Homentmen Fans are still hoping to compete in the Division One championship this season , the LBF asked from Bejjeh club to confirm its participation in next season Division One championship due that the club faced major big problems in the past season. Nothing is clear and the coming days will tell.

On the other side the LBF met with the Division One clubs and decided on season 2012-2013 championship format, the format will be as follows :

Round I: Regular season : The ten clubs on round robin basis

Round II:
Final 6: The first six teams in the standings after the end of round I will compete another round on round robin basis
Final 4 from down : the last four teams after round I will compete against each other , the last in standings which is # 10 will be relegated directky to Division 2 and the ranked #9 team will play the relegations games.

Round III: Final 4 : The first four teams after Round II will compete against each other on a play off basis.

The championship is scheduled to start on October 26th 2012 but some LBF members are trying to push it after the elections.


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


Nevezis preparing roster for season - by Evaldas Ceilytkas (T)

Kedainiai Triobet Nevezis began to sign players for next season. Head coach of the team will be Darius Sirtautas . His assistants will be Rolandas Urkis and Tomas Stankevicius. Team already have seven players for next season: center from Denmark Jonas Bergstedt (210-C-91), Canadian point guard Antwi Atuahene (191-G-84, college: Arizona St.), team renewed contract with Vytenis Jasikevicius (187-PG-85), signed big man Gediminas Zyle (210-C-88) and guards Andrius Aleksandrovas (197-G-86), Sarunas Kulevicius (195-G-89) and Paulius Semaska (184-PG-93).


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


Black Star tab Terry Bryant - by Eurobasket News (T)

Black Star filled in second import spot. They agreed on terms of cooperation with Terry Bryant (186-G-85, college: SE Louisiana). The guard spent the last two seasons with Dorsten. Last season Terry Bryant notched 17.2 points, 4.0 assists, 2.9 rebounds and 1.7 steals per game in ProB. Eurobasket.com named Terry Bryant into All-Regionalliga West 2nd Team in 2011. The guard started his pro career in Hagen-Haspe 70 in 2009.


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  MONGOLIA   


U18 Championship: Mongolia beat Kazakhstan in the start of the Classification Round - by Eurobasket News

Mongolia U18-Kazakhstan U18 60:52

Mongolia beat Kazakhstan in the start of the Classification Round at the 22nd FIBA Asia U18 Championship. The home side overcame the visiting team 60:52.
Mongolia grabbed 10-8 lead in the middle of the first period and enjoyed 20-13 at the end of it. They increased to 8 points midway through the second frame and had 41:27 at the halftime. Kazakhstan reduced to 10 points with 5 minutes to go in the third quarter and trailed 47:39 after three quarters. No matter how hard they tried to step closer, they could not catch up with the opponents. Mongolia took the 8-point victory and satisfied the fans.
Enkhtaivan Chinzorig (188-C-95) top-scored for the winners with 15 points and Khash-Erdene Doniddemberei collected 13 points and 16 boards. Munkhnasan Lkhamjav (180-G-94) notched 11, while Anar-Erdene Khureltogoo (175-PG-94) added 10. Alexey Kurochka (185-G-94) replied with 18 points and Maxim Marchuk (195-F/G-94) had 15 points and 18 boards.

Mongolia U18: Enkhtaivan Chinzorig 15, Khash-Erdene Doniddemberei 13+16 rebs, Munkhnasan Lkhamjav 11, Anar-Erdene Khureltogoo 10
Kazakhstan U18: Alexey Kurochka 18, Maxim Marchuk 15+18 rebs


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


Kevin Durant goes from gold medal to red carpet - by Eurobasket News

Kevin Durant (6'9''-SF-88, college: Texas) is going from representing the red, white and blue to walking the red carpet.

Adding to a resume that already includes being a three-time NBA scoring champion and Olympic gold medalist, Durant was the star as his movie Thunderstruck premiered in Oklahoma Citys Bricktown entertainment district Sunday night. It opens in other theaters Friday.

Durant strolled down a red carpet in a black T-shirt, grey vest, white jeans and black sneakers to answer questions about his acting skills instead of the deadly shooting ability that propelled the Oklahoma City Thunder to the NBA Finals last season.

Of course, people are going to look at it a little different because Im a basketball player and Im doing something different, Durant said. A basketball player is what I do. Its not really just solely who I am. I like to do other things.

Its all about conquering your fears. Thats one thing I did with this, stepping in front of a camera and people yelling Action! Its not the norm for me. I did something outside the box, and Im glad it turned out pretty well.

Courtesy of The Associated Press (via www.insidehoops.com)


JaVale McGee learns from Hakeem Olajuwon - by Eurobasket News

On Jan. 19, 1988, Javale McGee (7'0''-C-88, college: Nevada) popped out of the womb and, though this hasn't been confirmed, presumably tried to swat the doctor's hand during an attempt to cut the umbilical cord.

McGee is a perpetual blocker with eager, elongated arms, similar to Hakeem Olajuwon (7'0''-C/F-63, college: Houston), who was also 7 feet, also 250 pounds, also wore No. 34 and whom, on that very night, blocked eight (yes, eight) Sacramento shots for the Rockets.

While Olajuwon was a perennial all-star, McGee is still trying to make his first All-Star Game.

And so, the Nuggets center is spending some of his summer at the home of Hakeem, which for McGee is, pun intended, a dream.

"It's definitely an honor to be working with him," McGee said.

McGee has spent a couple of weeks on Olajuwon's ranch near Houston, where Denver teammate Kenneth Faried is expected to work out as well this month.

Olajuwon has become sort of a hoops whisperer, teaching his intricate moves to some of the NBA's best bigs, including Dwight Howard and Amar'e Stoudemire.

"No question, I see him as another star," Olajuwon said to the Fox affiliate in Houston about McGee. "That guy should dominate the league.

"He has tremendous talent. I give him all these moves, and he can finish, and he's already skilled."

Last season, with Washington and Denver, McGee averaged 11.3 points, 7.8 rebounds and 2.2 blocked shots. He had two sky-walking, jaw-dropping, first-round playoff games against the Lakers and signed a long-term deal with Denver in the summer.

McGee said he works out with Olajuwon about 2 hours each day.

The goal, said Nuggets executive Masai Ujiri, who like Olajuwon is from Nigeria, "is he gets to work with someone who was not only a legend in the NBA, but who can also help him become the ultimate professional and ultimate player."

McGee spent much of his workout time with Stoudemire too. The duo would meticulously watch Olajuwon unleash a post move and then "do it ourselves in sets of five until we perfect the move."

"It's just (amazing) how precise he is with everything he does," McGee said. "It definitely is about gaining confidence, being comfortable with the ball, knowing exactly what to do and knowing what move to do when your first move is stopped."

McGee has begun to bond with the Hall of Famer.

Olajuwon is 49, but McGee said, "He might be better than some guys that are in the NBA."

Faried and McGee are expected to be a daunting duo of low-post high fliers this season. Faried finished third in the rookie of the year voting, but his offensive game is still a work in progress.

"He's going to have to develop a skills set, that's what is critical," said former player and NBA-TV analyst Greg Anthony by phone. "I'm a big Kenneth Faried fan the passion with which he plays, his energy, that will always carry him a long way. And he's a rebounder and that's something so critical to have, someone who will get you extra possessions.

"He's just scratching the surface. ... If his work ethic continues and his offensive game improves and he doesn't have to become a go-to guy, you just don't want to have him to be a liability then you could have something really special."

Courtesy of www.denverpost.com


Celtics' Zarren among candidates for Sixers general manager job - by Eurobasket News

Boston Celtics assistant general manager Mike Zarren is a serious candidate for the Sixers general manager position, sources with knowledge of the search told SI.com.

With incumbent Rod Thorn expected to transition to a consultant role once his replacement is found, the Sixers were reportedly deciding between former Portland assistant general manager and ESPN analyst Tom Penn and former New Orleans general manager Jeff Bower. Penn was considered the frontrunner just weeks ago, but sources say his candidacy has taken a serious hit while Zarren and Bower continue to jockey for the job.

Zarren is an intriguing addition to the field of prospects; a widely-respected purveyor of advanced player statistics in the NBA who is one of the least-known yet most-influential members of the Celtics' front office group. A lifelong Celtics fan and season-ticket holder who began as an unpaid intern in 2003, Zarren -- a Harvard Law graduate who has also served as Celtics' team counsel -- has become known as the right-hand man of general manager Danny Ainge. He is a regular speaker at the annual MIT Sloan Conference where so many NBA executives explore new ways to analyze players and teams in a more accurate, efficient and in-depth manner.

There may be a fourth candidate added to the mix as well, but the Sixers have no set timeline and are expected to conduct more interviews before making a decision. Philadelphia previously interviewed former Cleveland and San Antonio executive Danny Ferry before he was named Atlanta's general manager.

The job itself became far more appealing on Aug. 10, when the Sixers landed center Andrew Bynum in the four-team deal that sent Dwight Howard to the Lakers. There was already momentum for the organization that is entering its second season under a new ownership group headed by Josh Harris, as eight-seeded Philadelphia downed the top-seeded - and Derrick-Rose less - Bulls in the first round of the playoffs and took Boston to seven games in the Eastern Conference semifinals.

The Sixers lost two of their top three leading scorers in Lou Williams (via free agency to Atlanta) and Andre Iguodala (in the four-team trade, to Denver), but added shooting guard Nick Young and center Kwame Brown via free agency while trading with Golden State for small forward Dorell Wright.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com


Bogut determined to be ready for season opener, even if it means missing some training camp - by Eurobasket News

Warriors center Andrew Bogut (7'0''-C-84, college: Utah) said his surgically repaired left ankle will be ready for the Oct. 31 season opener at Phoenix. But he acknowledged that may mean sacrificing some of training camp, or even some preseason games.

Its about being smart with my ankle, Bogut said via a conference call with local media. Theres no point in trying to get ready for October 1st, when another week could significantly help. Im trying to get ready for camp, but my main goal is for the first game of the season to be 110 percent.

Bogut said based on the timeline given by the surgeons, he might be a bit ahead of schedule. He has already been shooting and lifting weights. He was recently cleared to start light jogging on the treadmill. Plus Warriors head athletic trainer JoHan Wang spent last in Australia working out Bogut: He pretty much smashed me in the gym. Bogut said his ankle has responded well to the increased activity, with little to no swelling or soreness.

While with the Milwaukee Bucks, Bogut fractured his left ankle on Jan. 25 and missed the last 54 games. Still, the Warriors traded for Bogut on March 13, giving up guard Monta Ellis and Ekpe Udoh. On April 27, Bogut had arthroscopic surgery on April 27 in Van Nuys to clean out loose particles and bone spurs.

Warriors general manager Bob Myers said previously the team is happy with Boguts progress. But the veteran center has some time before he can run fully on a court, let alone fully compete in a game setting.

Bogut said he wants to be ready for training camp, which begins Oct. 3, but said it will be close. The two-a-day practices at first might be too much to jump into. So Bogut may be limited even if he is in camp.

The immediate goal with all of this is to be ready for the first game, Bogut said, whether that means only playing in only half the preseason games or whatever.

Courtesy of www.ibabuzz.com


Omri Casspi denies he's being sent packing - by Eurobasket News

Omri Casspi (6'9''-SF-88), the first Israeli-born basketball player to make the NBA, denied Monday that his contract is being bought out by the Cleveland Cavaliers, as a reporter with Fox 8 news in Cleveland tweeted late Sunday.

@JohnTelich8
john telich
Source: #Cavs likely to buy out Omri Casspi from contract. Hearing this may be a mutual desire.

According to the report, the decision to leave the Cavs was mutual but Casspis agent said he would remain and fight for his place on the court.

The forward spent only one lockout-shortened year in Cleveland and reportedly fell out of favor of coach Byron Scott, who halfway through the lackluster season said Casspi was having a hard time learning the playbook.

Casspi entered the NBA as a low first round pick by the Sacramento Kings in 2009, to much local fanfare. He spent two years in California, including time as a starter, before being traded to Cleveland.

Though only a modest success in the worlds top basketball league, Casspi was a perpetual fan favorite with Jewish communities in the United States and Canada, whether at home or on the road.

The Jewish community - wherever we go, west or east - there are a lot of people with flags, Casspi told the Times of Israel earlier this year. They come to support me, invite me for holidays.

Courtesy of www.timesofisrael.com


Boston Celtics hire Erie BayHawks' Larranaga - by Eurobasket News (T)

The Boston Celtics have hired Erie BayHawks head coach James Larranaga to work as an assistant coach, sources close to the situation have confirmed.

Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo! Sports tweeted the news shortly before 10 p.m. today. The Erie Times-News confirmed the report with sources close to the situation.

Larranaga led Erie to the D-League playoffs in his two seasons guiding the BayHawks. He couldn't be reached by phone tonight.

Former NBA head coach Mike Fratello had hired Larranaga to work as an assistant under Fratello in coaching the Ukrainian senior men's national team in the qualifying round for the 2013 European Championships.

Larranaga had been scheduled to return to Erie in September to prepare for his third season leading the BayHawks. Larranaga had a year remaining on his contract.

Entering their fifth D-League season, the BayHawks now will search for their third coach. John Treloar was Erie's first head coach before taking a job with the Phoenix Suns as their director of player personnel.

Courtesy of www.goerie.com


Brandon Jennings seeks contract extension from Bucks - by Eurobasket News

Bucks point guard Brandon Jennings (6'0''-PG-89) is hoping to have a contract extension in his pocket by the time the regular season opens on Nov. 2 in Boston.

Jennings is entering his fourth NBA season and is in line for an extension that could keep him with Milwaukee for four additional seasons.

But the 23-year-old had more than his contract on his mind during an interview Sunday morning at Homestead High School. Jennings was on hand to supervise a group of 200 youngsters on the second day of the Brandon Jennings Basketball ProCamp.

"It would be something Id love to get done with and over with so I dont have to worry about it," Jennings said of the contract extension. "But the main thing is just to come into training camp a better player, a better leader ... just lead the team to the playoffs."

Oklahoma City reached an extension deal with shot-blocking forward Serge Ibaka on Saturday, a deal reported to be worth $48 million over four seasons. The 23-year-old Ibaka was in the same situation as Jennings, eligible for an extension for the first time.

Bucks management and Jennings' agent, Bill Duffy, have until Oct. 31 to reach a deal.

Jennings knows there will be plenty of pressure to win this season, particularly with coach Scott Skiles and general manager John Hammond in the final year of contracts. And the Bucks are coming off a 31-35 finish during the lockout-shortened season, marking a second straight season missing the playoffs.

"To be honest, I think everybody is (feeling pressure)," Jennings said. "Were all on the bubble right now, because we need to win. Theres going to be a lot of pressure on all of us, not just the coaching staff or the GM. We all know this could be it so we need to turn it around right now."

Jennings has watched all the player movement during the off-season and seen the landscape in the Eastern Conference change dramatically. All-star center Dwight Howard has gone to the Western Conference after being traded by Orlando to the Los Angeles Lakers, while young big man Andrew Bynum has a new address in Philadelphia. Joe Johnson is teaming up with Deron Williams in New Jersey and Atlanta has a reshaped roster now featuring guards Devin Harris and Lou Williams.

"A lot of teams are different and some teams got better," Jennings said. "I still think the Sixers are going to be great. The Nets are going to be better for sure.

"With the team we have and the potential we have, we have a chance to be a top six seed in the Eastern Conference. Thats something Im going to go into training camp talking about with the guys. Instead of saying we hope we make the playoffs, we just need to start saying, Were going to do it and we need to do it now."

Courtesy of The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel


LeBron James eyes Rio Olympics, says he wants to play in 2016 Games if healthy - by Eurobasket News

LeBron James (6'8''-SF-84) squeezed his mom's hands, the way he did as a kid.

Moments before being honored again in his hometown, where they still love him and always will, James stood among family members and friends. With the days in this summer of summers dwindling quickly, this was another moment to savor. So as he waited to be introduced, James hugged his mom, Gloria, around the neck, took out his phone and snapped their picture.

He was home.

"I know this place," he said, "and it knows me."

Fresh off leading the U.S. men's team to a gold medal at the London Olympics, James was praised Sunday during a minor league game for his recent basketball accomplishments an MVP award, NBA title and the gold and for giving back to Akron, where his "Wheels For Education" initiative has provided inner-city kids with supplies, programs, mentors, and above all, hope.

"I was one of these kids," James said. "It means everything to me to be able to give back. I have a passion for it. I love seeing kids smile, and for them to have someone who can lead them. For me to be in this position and being able to help and give back, means a lot."

James received a warm ovation from the crowd of 3,843 more than double the average attendance when he walked onto the infield at Canal Park, home of the Double-A Akron Aeros, during the middle of the eighth inning escorted by Akron Mayor Don Plusquellic.

As James reached the area in front of the pitcher's mound, infielders for the Reading Phillies lined up on the grass between first and second base and gawked at the superstar.

It was also going according to plan before a malfunctioning microphone caused several anxious and awkward moments.

Plusquellic's comments kept cutting out over the ballpark's speaker system, allowing two anti-James fans, one of them wearing a Cleveland Browns jersey, sitting a few rows behind Akron's dugout to shout "traitor" and other insults at James, who seemed unsure of what to do as the delay dragged on and stadium personnel scrambled to find a new microphone.

When it became apparent James would not be able to address the crowd, he posed for pictures and then left the field, slapping hands with a few Reading players who leaned over their dugout railing to greet the All-Star, who was mobbed by fans as he made his way up the aisle.

It was somewhat poetic, James going in one week from stepping onto a gold-medal podium with his teammates on the world's largest stage to a mix-up inside a minor league ballpark where he grew up and where Thursday's postgame entertainment will include midget wrestling.

Before taking the field, James retreated to a dusty stairwell corner with large rakes leaning on one cinder-block wall and reflected on his spectacular summer, a three-month whirlwind of awards that began with his third MVP trophy and was capped by a second gold medal.

James told the Associated Press he would like to play in a fourth Olympics. He has not yet informed USA Basketball chairman Jerry Colangelo of his intentions, but the 27-year-old said he'd like to step inside the five rings one more time.

"We haven't had that conversation," James said. "But if I'm healthy, I did the math and I'll be 31, and if I have the opportunity to be out there, I will do it. I love it. I love being a part of it and representing my country. I don't know what may happen in four years, but it would be great to be back out there again. Definitely."

Since winning gold, James said he hasn't heard from any members of the immortalized 1992 Dream Team, which scoffed at the idea that this year's U.S. Olympic team could beat them.

"Nah," he said. "I don't expect to hear from any of them."

James was the U.S. team's best all-around player in London, doing whatever coach Mike Krzyzewski needed while leading the Americans to their second straight gold. He was virtually unstoppable, just as he was in carrying the Miami Heat to an NBA championship in June.

In doing so, he silenced those critics who wondered if he could ever win the big one. James is on top, and he plans to stay there.

"I want that feeling again," he said of winning his first title.

James doesn't know if being a champion and the only player other than Michael Jordan to win an MVP, an NBA title and Olympic gold in the same year will change the way he's viewed. Since announcing his decision to leave Cleveland as a free agent two years ago, he has been cast as the villain, reviled outside South Florida perhaps more than any athlete in memory.

Some fans have moved on. Some can't. Some never will.

James once succumbed to the pressure produced by the constant condemnation. He's not bothered by it any longer.

Love him or hate him, James is only going to be himself.

"I don't even get involved with that anymore," he said. "I don't look for it. I don't shy away from it. I just kind of roll with what's going on. For me, and it started before last season, I came in with a different mindset and a different attitude and it didn't matter if you believed in me or not, I was still going to be how I was and stay true to who I was and who I am.

"And that's all that matters."

Courtesy of www.huffingtonpost.com


Kobe Bryant scores 68 points in a ridiculous charity game in China - by Eurobasket News

Have you ever wondered what would happen if the NBA turned loose one of its biggest stars on its annual Celebrity Game during All-Star Weekend? You know, the game where Justin Bieber breaks ankles and 1990s sitcom stars battle with today's reality television D-listers for rebounding position.

Well, here's your answer. Sort of.

Los Angeles Lakers guard Kobe Bryant (6'6''-SG-78) participated in what sounds like the most ridiculous charity basketball game of all time in Shanghei this weekend. The game, played in two 15-minute halves, featured local pop music stars. Bryant, in China on a promotional tour, sat out the entire first half before scoring a self-reported 68 points to key his team to a comeback victory, after fans somehow texted in to give his opponents an extra 20-point lead. Yes, you read that paragraph correctly.

Here's the full run-down via Bryant's Facebook page.

We played two 15 min halves with a running clock. I watched from the bench for the first half. We were trailing by 9 when I was notified that fans via text can choose a team to add 20 additional points to their tally!!! We were now down 29!! I wanted to play it cool but what the heck, the place was packed with fans who'd sang an early happy birthday to me and really wanted to watch me go to work. My teammates were down. They are all singers/actors and do not play ball much AT ALL, but they are very successful at what they do hence they are VERY competitive. They asked if I could bring them back in the second half..

I didn't want to disappoint them or the fans that had paid their hard earned money for a show so I took the challenge of really using the second half as a training session for my stamina. I ran and ran and ran. I wound up scoring 68 in the 2nd and we won. Like I said, they are not basketball players by any stretch of the imagination. I was just having fun with all of them and loved hearing the crowd enjoy the show we put on.

Clearly, 68 points in 15 minutes of action is no easy task. The 5-minute highlight video linked above sheds some light on how it happened. Bryant's opponents were regularly unable to dribble the ball past halfcourt and they repeatedly allowed him free passage to the hoop for dunks and lay-ups. Not included in the video: Bryant passing the ball even one time.

The best part of the video is that Bryant doesn't look bored in the slightest. Even though he's running up his stats in a meaningless charity game against pop singers who barely approach his shoulder when it comes to height, he's picking pockets, methodically weaving his way to the basket, rising for dunks, and soaking in the adoration of a country that is clearly crazy about him.

Courtesy of www.cbssports.com


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  NCAA1   


Critical Coaches: Should college basketball players be paid? - by Eurobasket News

CBSSports.com's college basketball quartet of Gary Parrish, Jeff Goodman, Jeff Borzello and Matt Norlander spent the July recruiting period hobnobbing with nearly 100 coaches, brain-picking them on some of the sport's current issues. From the best players to their comrades in coaching; from the AAU programs to the agents' involvement; from the rule changes to the NCAA as a whole. We had to promise them anonymity, and in exchange, they gave us honest answers. Through Aug. 24, we'll be putting out one question per weekday and giving you the array of results, straight from the coaches' mouths.

Today we're dealing with an eternal conflict. Legitimately, it's guaranteed that the topic of paying players will never, ever go away in American college sports. Whether it ever happens, and to whatever degree, there will always be those staked on either side of the overarching, ethical debate.

But what do college basketball coaches feel? With newer generations coming into the profession having witnessed a discussion that's raged on with more intensity and seriousness in the past 10 years, does the collective feel their players are owed more for their services? This one brought out a lot of passion from the coaches we interviewed. Plenty don't profess to know an answer, even if they take a side on the topic.

The question is: Should college basketball players be paid, and if so, how would you compensate them?
YES - 58 percent
NO - 42 percent
Some of the suggested methods:

-- Build compensation right into the scholarship package with a stipend at the end of each semester: 28 percent
-- Players should be allowed to receive endorsement money (Olympic model): 20 percent
-- Cost-of-living grants is the way to go: 12 percent
-- Make leagues responsible for paying via their own profits: 8 percent
-- Want change but don't have a solution: 8 percent

Quotes that stuck:
"Absolutely not. They get free college, crazy amounts of free gear and glorified enough as it is. This isn't pro sports, but if they get paid -- even a small amount -- it gives the players even more power than they already have. We would start to see more Dwight Howard situations at colleges."

"Stipends are good. I think it would tough to start talking about someone's market value."

"No one is forcing these kids to play. College educations are already so expensive. In a lot of ways, they're getting paid. I don't think most schools can afford to pay basketball players, because then don't you have to pay everyone else playing D-I? That's not possible."

"The Olympic model is what we should move to because that lets companies handle paying the players that most believe should be paid and keeps the schools out of it. Shabazz Muhammad could get an Adidas deal, Peyton Siva could do commercials for Papa John's, Trey Burke could be on Ford billboards in Detroit, etc. Basically, the programs with the biggest boosters connected to the biggest companies would have a way to compensate their players. And I know people would argue that would give those schools a recruiting advantage because players who go to North Carolina would be more likely to get a Nike deal than players who go to Clemson. But North Carolina and Michigan and Louisville and schools like that already have recruiting advantages anyway. This wouldn't change the order of things at all, and the best players would get something more than just a scholarship. And here's the best part: It would actually take recruiting and pull it above board. Everybody would know from the outset what they're up against."

"I would give them a piece of the money that the league receives for that league's team making the tournament. For instance, if we make the tournament, our league gets money that is split between each school in our league. Some of that money should be given to the players."

"I think athletes should be paid a few thousand a semester. To keep gender equity and Title IX out of the way, they should allow coaches to pay kids out of that sport's summer camp fund. $2,500 or so per semester. That would be an easy solution for football and men's basketball because the camps generate enough revenue. If not, boosters should be able to donate until each player receives the maximum amount of money."

"We have set hours per week we can work them out. Why not go minimum wage for those hours? Would be between 1500-2300 a semester depending on holiday breaks."

"Would be the possible way to eliminate lure of agents. Need to incorporate GPA and wealth level of family. Household income would be best way. Make the process similar to a college loan process -- so there would be some hoops to go through. Maybe 500-1000 a month."

"Make a mandate and have work study at every Division-I institution with a flat rate."


Takeaway (by Matt Norlander):

What do you make of these results, huh? Aren't you surprised more than half the coaches polled -- and it's a hearty sample size -- are in favor of their players receiving money in one way or another? I was. Pleasantly, too. I think it puts the coaches in a pragmatic, self-aware light. These guys -- a lot of them, anyway -- are making serious money coaching and they see the sacrifices that go in everywhere, from everyone affiliated with their programs. Maybe now coaches are realizing, and realizing for good, that players are being used by the system too much.

And no one's saying contracts or big paydays are the way to go, by the way. From coaches who suggested paying players, the general feel of their response was, "At the very least, these young men deserve some sort of modest slice of the pie." That said, this question had answers ranging from a total income in the hundreds to ones ranging closer to 10 grand per player per season. It's why we went with more standout quotes on this question than any other we've had so far in our series -- there's a lot of zeal on this topic.

I find it fascinating and refreshing the coaches have a vested interest and opinion in this. And what we found out was, no matter what level or rank a coach was at, the opinion varied. There is no tie that binds here. Some low-level assistants feel the players on their teams should be paid, while other coaches at big-time schools think it's an impossible task.

And within this debate, there is an area more gray than the geography taken up by the Big East. Yes, players could receive bonus compensation built into their scholarships. I think that's affordable and likely on the way -- nationally. But it's still logistically a fiscal nightmare for more than half the NCAA programs whose schools inescapably operate in the red. As for the Olympic model, I've no problem with it. The NCAA, however, does, and I think it's at least a decade before that option becomes a remote possibility. There's something so scary to the NCAA about its athletes making money via any type of commercial or endorsement. I understand it, even if I don't agree with it.

To me, it seems inevitable that this debate leads to change. The NCAA's system of amateurism has myriad flaws and contradictions. The bigger men's basketball gets, the brighter the lights, the more eyeballs, more articles, more money, more attention. More everything. Players are mandatory to the expanse, and because of that, their well-being and proper place at the table only gets more arguable by the year.

Courtesy of CBS Sports (www.cbssports.com)


Seton Hall recruit Aquille Carr arrested for assault - by Eurobasket News

Seton Hall recruit Aquille Carr, a top-100 point guard in the Class of 2013, has been arrested for assault in his hometown of Baltimore.

Carr, 18, was arrested Friday morning on a warrant issued the day before. He is accused of second degree assault and reckless endangerment, according to The Baltimore Sun. He is being held on $50,000 bond.

He is a 5-7 dynamo who has wowed scouts on the summer circuit with his explosive quickness, court vision and ability to finish plays at the rim despite his lack of height. He picked Seton Hall last December over offers from Connecticut, Louisville, Memphis and Texas.

Courtesy of http://aol.sportingnews.com


Eastern Michigan coach Rob Murphy turns down Magic - by Eurobasket News

Eastern Michigan has retained basketball coach Rob Murphy.

Murphy says he's had an opportunity to work for the Orlando Magic.

He was named the Mid-American Conference Coach of the Year last season after helping the Eagles win their first division title in his first year at the school. He was hired by Eastern Michigan after working an assistant at Syracuse for seven years. He also was leading at Detroit Crockett High School for three seasons.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com


Solna Vikings land American rookie Donald Johnson - by Eurobasket News (T)

Donald Johnson (203-F) will start his professional basketball career in Sweden. The American forward signed a 1-year deal with Solna Vikings. They compete in Swedish top division for men - Basketligan. Johnson is a product of Cal State University - Bakersfield, where he graduated few months ago. He had 9.9 ppg and 5.5 rpg for 28 games as a senior. They were Independent Conference champions. In 2010/11 season, the forward had 4.3 ppg and 3.4 rpg for his school in 27 games. Donald Johnson will join the Vikings in September.
Earlier this summer, Solna Vikings penned a 1-year deal with Greek center Stavros Toutziarakis (210-C-87, agency: FCM). He spent last season with OF Irakleio in Greek A2 league.


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  PHILIPPINES   


U18 Championship: Philippines rout Indonesia in Ulaanbaatar - by Eurobasket News

Indonesia U18-Philippines U18 62:88

Philippines rout Indonesia in Ulaanbaatar at the 22nd FIBA Asia U18 Championship.The winning side celebrated 88:62 win in the start of the fourth day. Philippines improved to 2-1 record, while Indonesia fell at 1-2 record at a newly created Group F.
Philippines started better and reached 23-18 after the first period. They increased to 10 more points at the halftime after 22-12 in the second frame. Moreover the winners scored another 22 points in the third period and grabbed 67:48 advantage after three quarters played. Moreover they finished the game with 21-14 in the last stanza to seal the victory.
Jerie Pingoy (175-G-94) paced all the winners with 16 points and Mario Bonleon (183-F-94) netted 15. Rey Nambatac (179-G-94) delivered 11, while Rashleigh-Paolo Rivero (188-F-95) and Kristoffer Porter (198-C-94) scored 8 each. Jan Panagan (179-G-94) ended up with 12 points in the losing effort and Andre Adrianno (175-G-94) poured in 11. Rivaldo Pangesthio (186-F-96)and Vicent Kosasih (202-C-96) followed them with 9 points apiece.

Indonesia U18: Jan Panagan 12, Andre Adrianno 11, Rivaldo Pangesthio 9, Vicent Kosasih 9
Philippines U18: Jerie Pingoy 16, Mario Bonleon 15, Rey Nambatac 11, Rashleigh-Paolo Rivero 8, Kristoffer Porter 8


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  POLAND   

Standings - DBE

TBL Standings
 1. Anwil 0-0 
 2. Asseco Prokom 0-0 
 3. AZS Koszalin 0-0 
 4. Energa Czarni 0-0 
 5. Kotwica 0-0 
 6. PGE Turow 0-0 
 7. Polpharma 0-0 
 8. Rosa Radom 0-0 
 9. Siarka Jezioro 0-0 
 10. Start Gdynia 0-0 
 11. Stelmet 0-0 
 12. Trefl Sopot 0-0 

Regular Season: Round 1

Sep. 29: Trefl Sopot - Polpharma
Sep. 29: Asseco Prokom - Start Gdynia
Sep. 29: AZS Koszalin - Siarka Jezioro
Sep. 29: Kotwica - Anwil
Sep. 29: Stelmet ZG - Energa Czarni
Sep. 29: PGE Turow - Rosa Radom



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  PUERTO RICO   


BSN deadline for teams is this Monday: - by Marcos Carlo

BSN said that the deadline for teams to declare if they don't play in the 2013 season is this Monday, August 20.

Last season only eight teams played and it might look familiar for next year as Coamo announced they will stay out of the league while the situations in Santurce, Ponce and Carolina are not clear yet.

Carolina might move to Morovis or Gurabo if they complete the sale, but no news have come out as of this moment.

The 2013 is expected to start between late March and April but a date has not been set yet.


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  ROMANIA   


Perry Petty signs with Giurgiu - by Chris Terrell

Perry Petty (185-G-88, college: UTPA) has agreed to a contract with CSS Giurgiu for the 2012-2013 Season. Petty is with the Romanian club now and is a 6'1 point guard who played in Slovakia last season averaging 18ppg while leading the league in steals and was 3rd overall in assists. He also was Player of the Year, Finals MVP, Guard of the Year, All-PBL 1st team and Champion in the Premiere Basketball League. Petty starred at University of Texas Pan-American (NCAA D1) where he helped lead his team to the Great West Conference semifinals averaging nearly 16ppg. Known as a strong defender that has good size at the PG position, Perry is also a strong rebounder for his position, and a guy that can be a playmaker and a consistent deep range threat with his shooting ability shooting over 40% from 3 last season.


U Mobitelco Cluj-Napoca lands F Sean Barnette - by Eurobasket News (T)

Sean Barnette (198-F-86, college: Wingate) is a new member of U Mobitelco Cluj-Napoca. The American forward signed a 1-year deal with his new club. Barnette arrives from the Swiss team Geneve Lions, where he spent last season. He appeared 36 times for the club averaging 16.8 points, 6.5 rebounds and 1.3 assists. He helped Geneve to reach the LNA Finals and Cup Semis. The player was named to Eurobasket.com All-Swiss LNA 1st Team -12. Before Geneve, Sean Barnette played one season for French Lille (ProB). The player split 2009/10 between Iowa Energy and Rio Grande Valley Vipers. With the Vipers he won the NBA D-League title helping the team with 2.6 ppg and 2 rpg for 5 games. In the past, Barnette played for Saint Vallier. He graduated at Wingate University (NCAA2) four years ago.


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  RUSSIA   


Jimmy Baron reportedly agreed on terms of contract with Lokomotiv Kuban - by Eurobasket News (T)

Jimmy Baron (191-G-86, college: Rhode Island) is close to landing in Russia. The guard has reportedly reached an agreement on terms of contract with Lokomotiv Kuban. The guard is meant to replace Vlado Ilievski (187-PG-80, agency: Beo Basket) on the roster. Jimmy Baron spent the last three seasons in Spain. He played for Lagun Aro. Last season the guard notched 11.9 points and 2.4 rebounds per game in ACB. He earned All-Spanish ACB Honourable Mention. Jimmy Baron started his pro career in Turkey in 2009. He played for Mersin Belediyesi. His stats read 16.4 points, 2.5 rebounds and 1.2 assists per appearance in TBL. He participated at TBL All-Star Game. Jimmy Baron also earned All-Turkish TBL Honourable Mention.


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  SAUDI ARABIA   


U18 Championship: Taiwan and Saudi Arabia open Day 4 - by Eurobasket News

Taiwan U18-Saudi Arabia U18 82:41

Taiwan successfully started Group F campaign as the team smashed Saudi Arabia in the opener of Day 4. Taiwan looked too good for the opponents and won 82:41. Taiwan improved to 3-0 record in Group F, while Saudi Arabia fell at 0-3 record.
Taiwan won the opening period 21-7 and added 17-13 in the second frame. The second half also belonged to the winning side that produced two victories in the last two quarters. Taiwan won the third period 21-11 and finished the game with 23-10 in the last stanza.
Huang Tsun-Han (193-F-94) top-scored for the winners with 14 points, while Lin Kuan-Chun (184-G-95) and Huang Hung-Han (189-F-94) had 11 each. Lee Chia-Jui (200-C-94) followed them with 10 points in a win. Mohammed Alhosawe (173-G-94) replied with 14 points in the losing effort and Nassir Abojalas (195-F-94) collected 10 points and 11 rebounds. Safwan Mohammed (203-C-94) and Asslam Bafarat (197-F/C-94) delivered 6 points apiece.

Taiwan: Huang Tsun-Han 14, Lin Kuan-Chun 11, Huang Hung-Han 11, Lee Chia-Jui 10
Saudi Arabia: Mohammed Alhosawe 14, Nassir Abojalas 10+11 rebs, Safwan Mohammed 6, Asslam Bafarat 6


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  SCOTLAND   


Rocks Sign back Brice Fantazia - by Eurobasket News (T)

Glasgow Rocks are able to announce the (re) signing of 64 guard, Brice Fantazia (193-G-85, college: Culver Stockton), as he makes his return to Glasgow after a years absence. During his first stint with the Rocks Fantazia averaged 9.8ppg, 3.4rpg, 2.9apg and shot 45.5% from the field.

Fantazia was initially part of the Glasgow Rocks 2010/11 squad and after a year away playing for Portuguese side S.C. LUSITANIA ANGRO PATRIMONIO MUNDIAL, Coach Davis decided to bring back Fantazia in an effort to strengthen his backcourt in the absence of Danny Huffor. Unfortunately, Danny Huffor acquired a season ending knee injury while he was representing the Scottish National Team in San Marino at the European Championships for Small Countries.

Fantazia will be a welcome addition to the Rocks squad and as an added bonus for Glasgow Rock fans he will no longer need a Certificate of Sponsorship to play for the franchise due to his recent acquisition of Portuguese Citizenship, giving him automatic EU membership status.

Head Coach, Sterling Davis said: Most fans here will be familiar with Brice and what he can bring. He is a hard-nosed guard who will not back down. He spent last season playing for a very good Portuguese side and hopefully will come back with even more experience than when he left. He unfortunately dealt with a nagging injury in his debut season in a Rocks jersey, so Im sure he will be ready to come in and show us a new side of him that he was not able to show before.

Fans will be hoping that the extra experience Fantazia has accumulated over the past few years will put him in good stead for the 2012/13 Season and that his energetic style of play will add another dimension to the Rocks offensive prowess. He is due to arrive in Glasgow on the 1st September as the Rocks prepare to start their official 2012/13 training camp on the 3rd September.

More signing announcements will follow in the coming days, alongside details for the Annual Glasgow Rocks pre-season fixture on the 9th September against the USA Select @ 5:00pm. Tickets for this event are now online at www.glasgowrocks.co.uk with the event being held at the Kelvin Hall ISA. This will be the final ever game to be played at Kelvin Hall with the Glasgow Rocks scheduled to play their opening BBL Fixture against the Newcastle Eagles at the Brand New Commonwealth Arena on the 7th October @ 5:00pm.
Courtesy of: http://www.glasgowrocks.co.uk


Glasgow Rocks find their new big man with signing of 6'9 - by Eurobasket News (T)

The Glasgow Rocks are proud to announce the signing of 6'9" athletic Centre, Meneptha Darden (206-C), to fill the void down in the paint. The 24 year old American will be looking to begin his professional career with the Rocks after a successful final year at Rogers State University where he led his team in both rebounds and blocked shots.

Darden's large frame and athletic agility should be a welcoming asset to the Glasgow Rocks as they continue their search for their first piece of Silverware since the 2002/03 Season. The Rocks have always struggled to find the 'right' big man and with a new season dawning, Darden may be the missing piece to the rocks puzzle.

Head Coach, Sterling Davis, had the following to say about his most recent signing: "Meneptha, I feel, is the big we have been wanting for a while now. He is very athletic, agile, and a really good shot blocker. I think what stood out about him is his intensity level when he plays the game. He is the guy who will do whatever needs done for his team to win and really seems to wear his heart on his sleeve."

During his college years, Darden was well regarded as a big time shot blocker and rebounder, facets of the game that will go a long way in cementing Coach Davis' lockdown defensive strategies for the forthcoming season.

His hunger and passion for basketball stood out to Coach Davis: "This guy is hungry to make a name for himself and I feel that he has not been given enough opportunity to prove his worth as yet. Hopefully he will come in and bring everything I envision of him to our team."

More signing announcements will follow in the coming days, alongside details for the Annual Glasgow Rocks pre-season fixture on the 9th September against the USA Select. Tickets for this event are now online at www.glasgowrocks.co.uk with the event being held at the Kelvin Hall ISA.

This will be the final ever game to be played at Kelvin Hall with the Glasgow Rocks scheduled to play their opening BBL Fixture against the Newcastle Eagles at the Brand New Commonwealth Arena on the 7th October @ 5:00pm.
Courtesy of: http://www.glasgowrocks.co.uk


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


Mark Worthington testing AFL waters - by Eurobasket News

After helping the Boomers to a Quert Finals berth in his second Olympic Games, NBL star Mark Worthington (202-PF-83, college: Metro St.) is reportedly poised to try out with West Coast Eagles AFL in Perth this week.

Worthington admits he has long wanted to try playing football and is interested to see if a switch is possible. He is set to be flown to Perth this week by the Eagles for testing.

The work-out this week will see where Im at, Worthington told The Advertister.

Playing AFL was something I always wanted to do but I thought the opportunity had passed at my age.

I dont mean that in terms of being too old but just switching sports to be a mature-age recruit seemed unlikely.

But West Coasts CEO is a Bunbury guy Ive known a long time and theyve shown a high level of interest.

After the Gold Coast Blaze exited the NBL, Worthington had signed to play in Serbia but said that he was keen to explore the AFL option before leaving for Europe.

If I want to forego Serbia, then I will switch sports, he said.

My parents werent the richest people going around when I was growing up.

My mum worked long hours and my dad worked two jobs to keep us afloat, so I probably chose the selfish option with basketball when I had to make the decision between sports.

But AFL is an itch Ive wanted to scratch for a long while.

Worthington played as a ruckman and at centre half-forward as a junior.

You know, just like I enjoy taking a few shots in basketball, I liked to kick a few goals playing footy, he said.

If its going to happen (changing sports), its going to happen within a week.

Courtesy of NBL Australia


Partizan signs deal with rookie PF Drew Gordon - by Eurobasket News (T)

Partizan Belgrade announced signing of a 1-year deal with rookie Drew Gordon (205-F-90, college: N.Mexico). The American power forward arrives from the University of New Mexico, where he graduated few months ago. The player had 14 ppg and 11.2 rpg in 34 games as a senior. New Mexico won the MWC Tournament and Gordon was named All-MWC All-Tournament MVP -12. A year ago, the player was named to All-MWC 2nd Team. He had 13 ppg and 10.5 rpg for 26 games that season. Drew Gordon transferred to New Mexico from the UCLA in 2010. In his sophomore season with UCLA the player had 11.2 ppg and 5.3 rpg, but the appeared just 6 times for the school. Gordon was a member of Dallas Mavericks at 2012 NBA Pro Summer League in Las Vegas. He had 4 ppg and 6 rpg. In 2008, he played for the USA Team at Nike Summit Hoop. In 2009, Gordon was on the list of candidates for the USA U19 NT.
The news that Partizan is set to sign Gordon was first reported by Eurobasket correspondent Ivan Milenkovic.


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  SINGAPORE   


U18 Championship: Hong Kong celebrate first win - by Eurobasket News

Hong Kong U18 - Singapore U18 75:64

Hong Kong celebrated the first win at the U18 Asia Championship. They knocked down Singapore to set up the clash versus Mongolia for the 13th place at the tournament. Choi kwan Tsai came up with 21 points to lead Hong Kong. Singapore will take on Kazakhstan in the final game at the tournament.
Hong Kong eked out an 18:14 lead after ten minutes of action. They maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. Hong Kong ensured a 37:34 halftime advantage. Singapore stayed close throughout the third quarter. They narrowed the margin at one-point mark at the final intermission 51:52. Hong Kong cleared off early in the final stanza. They opened an 8-point lead and marched to the victory at the end. Chang Yiu-Fai (168-PG-94) delivered 15 points for Hong Kong. Ho Chun Kit (191-C-95) had 16 points and 8 rebounds in the victory. Low Remus (183-F-94) answered with 17 points for Singapore. Loon Tay Ding (185-PF-94) had 16 points and 10 rebounds in the loss.

Hong Kong U18: Tsai Choi Kwan (186-SF-95) 21, Ho Chun Kit 16, Chang Yiu-Fai 15
Singapore U18: Low Remus 17, Loon Tay Ding 16+10 boards


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


Tajfun brings in big man Emir Zimic - by Rado Markovic Hribernik

KK Tajfun Sentjur has strenghtened its roster with bosnian big man Emir Zimic (215-C-86) for the upcoming season. The player made his mark playing for Bosna Sarajevo, where he played for 7 seasons, and has played well in the Adriatic league too. At the start of the previous season he joined the Greek side DASH Peristeri GS Athens, but because of the lack of playing opportunities, he left the team in january and moved to Kosovo, where he played for KB Trepca Mitrovice. With his 216 cm of height and experience it is no doubt, he will be a big reinforcement for the Slovenian side.


*****************************************************
  SOUTH KOREA   


U18 Championship: South Korea dismantle India - by Eurobasket News

South Korea U18 - India U18 123:73

South Korea kept their spotless record at U18 Asia Championship. They outgunned India at the start of the Second Stage of the tournament today. Jonghyun Lee (206-C-94) delivered 29 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists to lead the winners.
South Korea unloaded 35 points in the opening quarter to take off. They grabbed a 12-point lead and stretched the margin in the second quarter. The Korean team ensured a 32-point lead at the interval 64:32. South Korea kept India at bay throughout the third term. The margin grew at 37-point mark at the final intermission. South Korea did not slow down in the fourth period and raced to the victory at the end. Gibeom Cheon (187-G-94) netted 17 points, while Sangjae Kang and Seongmo Choi (187-G-94) provided 15 points each in the win. Amit Kanarjee (187-PG-94) replied with 25 points for India. Rakesh Singh (198-PF-95) had 12 points and 11 rebounds in the loss.

South Korea U18: Jonghyun Lee 29, Gibeom Cheon 17, Sanghjae Kang 15, Seongmo Choi 15
India U18: Amit Kanarjee 25, Rakesh Singh 12+11 boards


2012 William Jones Cup: USA hand Anyang KGC first loss - by Eurobasket News

USA - Anyang KGC 84:75

USA Selection claimed the second consecutive win at the William Jones Cup. They overcame previously undefeated Anyang KGC of South Korea. Curtis Marshall (6'6''-G/F-83, agency: R.H.Consultancy, college: Texas Tech) delivered 25 points and 7 rebounds to lead the winning side.
USA held their opponents to 13 points in the first quarter. They grabbed a 3-point lead ten minutes into the game. The tempo increased in the second frame. USA ensured a 37:32 halftime lead. The North American side unloaded 29 points in the third quarter to boost the margin to as many as 15 points at the final break 66:51. Anyang KGC were able to trim the deficit but came up short of victory at the end. Jermaine Dearman (6'8''-F/C-80, agency: Top Notch Sports, college: S.Illinois) accounted for 20 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Lee Jung-Hyun (6'3''-F-87) responded with 26 points for Anyang KGC. Choi Hyun-Min (6'5''-F-90) netted 12 points in the loss.

USA: Curtis Marshall 25, Jermaine Dearman 20, Wayne Arnold 10
Anyang KGC: Lee Jung-Hyun 26, Choi Hyun-Min 12


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  SPAIN   


CB Prat Juventud keep Albert Homs, Ferran Bassas and Guillem Vives - by Eurobasket News (T)

CB Prat Juventud secured the services of Albert Homs (203-F-94, agency: Interperformances), Ferran Bassas (185-G-92) and Guillem Vives (190-F/G-93) for the next season. The Spanish team renewed the deals with the players.
Albert Homs averaged 2.5 points and 1.3 rebounds per game in LEB Silver last season. He also played for the junior team. Albert Homs participated at Albert Schweitzer Tournament in Mannheim this year. The forward was the member of U16 Spanish National Team.
Ferran Bassas has been the member of CB Prat since 2009. Last season he notched 5.7 points, 3.0 assists and 2.2 rebounds per game in LEB Silver. The guard also played three games for Juventut Badalona. Ferran Bassas notched 2.3 points per game in ACB.
Guillem Vives notched 5.1 points, 1.8 assist, 1.7 rebounds and 1.1 steals per game in LEB Silver. The forward was the member of U18 and U20 Spanish National Teams.


Valencia keeps Florent Pietrus (1+1 year deal) - by Eurobasket News (T)

Florent Pietrus (202-F-81) stays with Valencia Basket. The French National Team forward signed 2-year contract extension (1+1). Pietrus appeared 39 times in Liga Endesa last season averaging 3.1 points and 3.2 rebounds. He also added 5.4 ppg and 3.5 rpg for 13 EuroCup games. Valencia reached EuroCup Finals and Liga Endesa Semis. Florent Pietrus arrived to Valencia during the summer of 2008. He left them shortly at the beginning of 2010/11 season, but returned to the club after one month with Caja Laboral. Before Valencia, he played for Estudiantes and Unicaja Malaga. Pietrus is active member of the French National Team since 2002. He appeared 4 times at the Olympics in London averaging 4.5 points and 2.8 rebounds. Pietrus helped France to win the silver medal last summer in Lithuania.


River Andorra inks David Guardia - by Eurobasket News (T)

David Guardia (197-F-90) is a new member of River Andorra. The Spanish forward signed a deal for the next season. In the latest one he had 3.1 ppg and 19 rpg for 25 LEB Silver games with Fontedoso Carrefour El Bulevar de Avila. Before Avila, Guardia spent one year with EBA team Adesavi San Vicente. There he shined with 14.2 ppg and 5 rpg for 21 games, while he also played two games for Alicante that year. In 2009/10, the forward got a chance four times with Alicante, but he spent most of the season with EBA squad Santa Pola Lucentum Alicante. In the past, David Guardia was a member of Clinicas Rincon, Unicaja II and Unicaja juniors. In 2006, he won the gold medal with U16 Spanish NT at U16 EuroBasket in Jaen. Guardia had 6.6 ppg and 5 rpg for 8 games at this event. In 2009, he participated at Spanish U19 NT training camp, but didn't make it to the roster.


Canarias Tenerife land Blagota Sekulic - by Eurobasket News (T)

Iberostar Canarias Tenerife bolstered their frontcourt. They agreed on terms of contract with Blagota Sekulic (209-C-82, agency: FCM). The centre spent the last season in Spain. He played for UCAM Murcia. The Montenegrin player averaged 8.2 points and 5.8 rebounds per game in ACB. Previously Blagota Sekulic had stints with Vanoli-Braga Cremona, ALBA Berlin, Aris, PAOK, Real Madrid, Maroussi, AEK and Buducnost. Blagota Sekulic was Uleb Cup winner in 2007. The centre made it into All-EuroCup 3rd Team in 2010. He was the member of Yugoslavian U18 and U20 National Teams. Blagota Sekulic has been the member of Montenegrin National Team since 2008.


Palencia keeps McDermott - by Natxo Mendaza (T)

Jamaican forward and Palencia Baloncesto have reached an agreement to extend contract for the upcoming season, the club announced today. Geoff McDermott (203-F-87, college: Providence) joined Palencia at the end of the past season, replacing Michel diouf, and averaged 8 points and almost 8 rebounds per night in 15 games. McDermott becomes the seventh addition to the roster joining Bravo (extended), Garrido (extended) and Forcada, Tveidt, Fornas and Otegui (all new signings).


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


Vikings add American G Kelvin Lewis - by Eurobasket News (T)

Solna Vikings reinforced its roster with another American. The team brought in forward Kelvin Lewis (193-G-88, college: Houston) for the next season. The player spent 2011/12 with the NBA D-League team Rio Grande Valley Vipers. He appeared 50 times for them averaging 12.5 points and 3 rebounds. Lewis played for the Vipers also from March of 2011 until the end of 2011/12 season. The player started it with Frisco Texas Legends registering 8.3 ppg and 2 rpg in 40 games. It was his first year as a pro. Kelvin Lewis graduated at the University of Houston in 2010. He shined with 15.5 ppg and 4 rpg for 35 games as a senior. The player had even better numbers in his junior season: 18 ppg and 3.3 rpg for 33 games. Lewis transferred to Houston from Auburn University in 2007.


Solna Vikings land American rookie Donald Johnson - by Eurobasket News (T)

Donald Johnson (203-F) will start his professional basketball career in Sweden. The American forward signed a 1-year deal with Solna Vikings. They compete in Swedish top division for men - Basketligan. Johnson is a product of Cal State University - Bakersfield, where he graduated few months ago. He had 9.9 ppg and 5.5 rpg for 28 games as a senior. They were Independent Conference champions. In 2010/11 season, the forward had 4.3 ppg and 3.4 rpg for his school in 27 games. Donald Johnson will join the Vikings in September.
Earlier this summer, Solna Vikings penned a 1-year deal with Greek center Stavros Toutziarakis (210-C-87, agency: FCM). He spent last season with OF Irakleio in Greek A2 league.


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  SWITZERLAND   


Oliver Vogt joins Geneve Lions - by Eurobasket News (T)

Geneve Lions bolstered their roster. They landed Swiss international Oliver Vogt (209-C-80). The centre played for Benetton Fribourg since 2006. Last season Oliver Vogt notched 11.1 points and 6.2 rebounds per game in LNA. Eurobasket.com named Oliver Vogt LNA Centre of the Year in 2011. He was also trumped LNA Most Improved Player of the Year in 2008. Oliver Vogt made it into LNA All-Domestic Player Team in 2008, 2010 and 2011. The centre also had stints with Herens Basket and Boncourt. Oliver Vogt has been the member of Swiss National Team since 2004. He tallies 7 points and 2.5 boards per game in 2013 EuroBasket Qualifying Round.


*****************************************************
  SYRIA   


U18 Championship: Lebanon take care of Syria - by Eurobasket News

Lebanon U18 - Syria U18 91:72

Lebanon opened win count at the Second Stage of U18 Asia Championship. They knocked down Syria in Group E to improve at 2-1 record. Wael Arakji (192-G-94) stepped up with 33 points and 9 rebounds for the winners.
Lebanon cleared off to a 7-poitn lead after ten minutes 20:13. Syria narrowed the gap in the second quarter. They got within just five points at halftime 34:39. But Lebanon managed to boost their lead in the third term. They held Syria to 14 points in the quarter and ensured a 12-point buffer heading into the fourth frame. Lebanon fired 31 points in the final stanza to seal the victory. Jimmy Salem (190-G-95) and Hanna Nemer (177-G-94) contributed 11 points each for the winners. Mahmmoud Trub (195-F-94) responded with 23 points for Syria. Mourad Hashim (176-G-95) had 12 points and 9 rebounds in the loss.

Lebanon U18: Wael Arakji 33, Jimmy Salem 11, Hanna Nemer 11
Syria U18: Mahmmoud Trub 23, Mourad Hashim 12


Wael Arakji leads Lebanon to an easy win over Syria - by Maarouf Mawloud

WABA teams Lebanon and Syria entered Mondays locked at identical 1-1 record making the result of the game very critical to eithers chances for a place in the quarterfinals.

Lebanon looked better organized in their defense and more cohesive in their offense, but Syria breathed hard on their necks throughout the game.

Wael Arakji (192-G-94) had another field day in shooting 11/19 for his 33 points to lead Lebanons win along with 9 rebounds. Jimmy Salem and Hanna Nemer each had 11 points.

Mahmoud Trabs 23 points paced Syria. Mohamad Shahin and Mohamad Hashem each pulled down 9 rebounds the former also scoring a dozen points.


*****************************************************
  TAIWAN   


2012 William Jones Cup: Iran beat Taiwan for third victory in a row - by Eurobasket News

Iran - Taiwan 75:64

Iran registered the third straight win at 2012 William Jones Cup. They defeated hosting Taiwan to stay on top of the ladder. Samad Nik Khahbahrami (198-F-83) came up with 30 points and 9 rebounds to lead the winners. Taiwan fell at 1-2 record after the defeat.
Iran surged ahead to take a 22:17 lead at the first break. Iran held Taiwan to 10 points in the second quarter to ensure a 15-point lead at halftime. Taiwan managed to cut the deficit in the third quarter. They got within 11 points at the final intermission. The teams traded baskets throughout the final frame as Iran rallied to the victory. Hamed Afagh (190-SG-83) accounted for 21 points, while Oshin Sahakian (200-F-86) added 9 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Tsung-Hsien Chang (192-G-87), Lin Chih-Chieh (192-G-82) and Lu Cheng-Ju (194-F-86) delivered 12 points each for Taiwan.

Iran: Samad Nik Khahbahrami 30, Hamed Afagh 21, Oshin Sahakian 9+10 boards
Taiwan: Tsung-Hsien Chang 12, Lin Chih-Chieh 12, Lu Cheng-Ju 12


U18 Championship: Taiwan and Saudi Arabia open Day 4 - by Eurobasket News

Taiwan U18-Saudi Arabia U18 82:41

Taiwan successfully started Group F campaign as the team smashed Saudi Arabia in the opener of Day 4. Taiwan looked too good for the opponents and won 82:41. Taiwan improved to 3-0 record in Group F, while Saudi Arabia fell at 0-3 record.
Taiwan won the opening period 21-7 and added 17-13 in the second frame. The second half also belonged to the winning side that produced two victories in the last two quarters. Taiwan won the third period 21-11 and finished the game with 23-10 in the last stanza.
Huang Tsun-Han (193-F-94) top-scored for the winners with 14 points, while Lin Kuan-Chun (184-G-95) and Huang Hung-Han (189-F-94) had 11 each. Lee Chia-Jui (200-C-94) followed them with 10 points in a win. Mohammed Alhosawe (173-G-94) replied with 14 points in the losing effort and Nassir Abojalas (195-F-94) collected 10 points and 11 rebounds. Safwan Mohammed (203-C-94) and Asslam Bafarat (197-F/C-94) delivered 6 points apiece.

Taiwan: Huang Tsun-Han 14, Lin Kuan-Chun 11, Huang Hung-Han 11, Lee Chia-Jui 10
Saudi Arabia: Mohammed Alhosawe 14, Nassir Abojalas 10+11 rebs, Safwan Mohammed 6, Asslam Bafarat 6


2012 William Jones Cup: Japan tastes the first success - by Eurobasket News

Taiwan B-Japan 50:85

Japan tastes the first success at 2012 William Jones Cup. The team improved to 1-2 record after an 85:50 win. Taiwan B meanwhile suffered the third straight loss.
Japan took 20-14 in the opening period and added 20-10 in the second frame. The team also dominated the second half and won the third and the last quarters. Japan produced 22-15 in the third period and finished the game with 23-11 in the last stanza.
Yuya Nagayoshi (199-C-91) and Tenketsu Harimoto (198-C/F-92) top-scored for the winners with 16 points each. Daiki Tanaka (191-F-91) nailed 14, while Takahiro Kurihara (192-G/F-87) posted 8. Chen Che-Yu (184-G-91) and Sung Yu-Hsuan (183-G-89) ended up with 14 points each, whilst Lin Chieh-Min (183-G-88) had 12.
In Day 4 Japan will face Jordan, while Taiwan B will play against USA team.

Taiwan B: Chen Che-Yu 14, Sung Yu-Hsuan 14, Lin Chieh-Min 12
Japan: Yuya Nagayoshi 16, Tenketsu Harimoto 16, Daiki Tanaka 14, Takahiro Kurihara 8


2012 Jones Cup Men Day 3 results - by Chris Wang

Boxcores in .png format available for download at https://www.box.com/s/d6319f1344755683f669

Japan 85-80 Taiwan B
http://2012wjc.basketball-tpe.org/files/902-1008-3056-10000.php
Jordan 87-68 Lebanon
http://2012wjc.basketball-tpe.org/files/902-1008-3070-10000.php
UPG (US) 84-75 KGC (South Korea)
http://2012wjc.basketball-tpe.org/files/902-1008-3060-10000.php
Iran 75-64 Taiwan
http://2012wjc.basketball-tpe.org/files/902-1008-3046-10000.php

Standings:
Iran 3-0
Philippines 2-0
UPG (US) 2-0
KGC (South Korea) 2-1
Jordan 1-1
Taiwan 1-2
Japan 1-2
Lebanon 0-3
Taiwan B 0-3


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  TURKEY   


Trabzonspor looking for come back to TBL - by Ugur Turker

Trabzonspor Basketbol which will played TBL2 next season is preparing to promote TBL again. Board extended with Experienced coach Halil Uner for next 3 years in order to achive long period aims. For TBL2, Trabzonspor Basketbol managed strong roster which included players who can compete in TBL as well. Palyers which have TBL experinces like Kaan Uner, Firat Aydemir (187-G-80), Alican Guney (194-G-89), Kadir Cipa (205-F-88), Rasim Bashak (200-F-80, agency: Court Side),Kadir Cipa, Jurica Zuza (207-C-78, agency: Alti Sport) and Emre Ekim will try to help Trabzonspor Basketbol to promote TBL. Acording to information Eurobasket.com Turkey reached, Trabzsonpor is looking for one scorer to strengthen their squad.


Royal Hali Gaziantep inks Vernon Macklin - by Eurobasket News (T)

Vernon Macklin (208-F/C-86, college: Florida) will continue his career in Turkey. The American big guy signed a 1-year deal with Royal Hali Gaziantep. Macklin played for Detroit Pistons at 2012 NBA Pro Summer League in Orlando. He had 2.3 ppg and 5.3 rpg for 3 games. Last season the American had 1.9 ppg and 1.4 rpg for 22 NBA games with Detroit. He also spent some time with the NBA D-League team Fort Wayne Mad Ants. There he had 14.5 ppg, 14.3 rpg and 2.5 apg. Vernon Macklin was 52nd overall pick at 2011 NBA Draft (Pistons). He graduated that year at the University of Florida. Macklin spent three years with Florida, after what he decided to go pro. In their last season together he had 11.6 ppg and 5.4 rpg. Florida reached NCAA Elite Eight.


Fenerbahce Ulker negotiates with Papaloukas, according to report - by Eurobasket News

Fenerbahce Ulker negotiates with Theodoros Papaloukas (200-PG-77, agency: FCM), according to Eurohoops.net. Reportedly, two sides have initiated talks and the deal could be finalized by the end of the week. According to the same source, FB Ulker will first have to clear mess with Ilkan Karaman. If TBF blocks this transfer, the former TBL champion may need one more foreigner for the front line and that leaves no place in the roster for Papaloukas. Situation about Karaman will be resolved in the next few days.
Theodoros Papaloukas played last season for Maccabi Tel Aviv. He had 3 ppg and 1.6 apg for 20 Euroleague games. Papaloukas also collected 5.3 ppg, 5.3 apg and 2.1 rpg for 9 appearances in Israeli Premier league. His numbers were slightly lower in Adriatic league. Maccabi Tel Aviv won Premier league and Adriatic league titles. Before Maccabi, Theodoros Papaloukas played for Olympiakos, CSKA Moscow and Panionios. He also played for the Greek National Team from 2000 to 2008.


The disagreement ended. Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul keeps Karaman - by Bulent Karagoz

Ilkan Karaman (205-F-90) is the last reason of the two Turkish teams -Galatasaray Medical Park Istanbul and Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul to struggle about. Disagreement started with the announcement of Fenerbahe Ulker Istanbul the sign of Ilkan Karaman. Galatasaray Medical Park Istanbul announced that Ilkan Karaman is a player of Galatasaray Medical Park Istanbul and has a 5 years deal with the club. Galatasaray Medical Park Istanbul applied to Turkish Basketball Federation for the solution.

Turkish Basketball Federation made a decision that Fenerbahe Ulker Istanbul will have the player with three years deal. They announced that Galatasaray Medical Park Istanbul has applied to us with some documents that Ilkan Karaman relating to the argument that they have a deal with the player till 2016 season. It seems that Galatasaray Medical Park Istanbul has a special sign with the player. But they didnt have our approval. So it is understood that after the breakdown of the 2 year deal with Pinar Karsiyaka, the player was free agent. So Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul has the three years deal with Ilkan Karaman


*****************************************************
  UBA   


2012 William Jones Cup: USA hand Anyang KGC first loss - by Eurobasket News

USA - Anyang KGC 84:75

USA Selection claimed the second consecutive win at the William Jones Cup. They overcame previously undefeated Anyang KGC of South Korea. Curtis Marshall (6'6''-G/F-83, agency: R.H.Consultancy, college: Texas Tech) delivered 25 points and 7 rebounds to lead the winning side.
USA held their opponents to 13 points in the first quarter. They grabbed a 3-point lead ten minutes into the game. The tempo increased in the second frame. USA ensured a 37:32 halftime lead. The North American side unloaded 29 points in the third quarter to boost the margin to as many as 15 points at the final break 66:51. Anyang KGC were able to trim the deficit but came up short of victory at the end. Jermaine Dearman (6'8''-F/C-80, agency: Top Notch Sports, college: S.Illinois) accounted for 20 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Lee Jung-Hyun (6'3''-F-87) responded with 26 points for Anyang KGC. Choi Hyun-Min (6'5''-F-90) netted 12 points in the loss.

USA: Curtis Marshall 25, Jermaine Dearman 20, Wayne Arnold 10
Anyang KGC: Lee Jung-Hyun 26, Choi Hyun-Min 12


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


Vincent Hunter signs with Cherkasy - by Eurobasket News (T)

Vincent Hunter (208-F-84, college: Arkansas) signs with Cherkasy for the next season. The player remains in Ukraine but with another team.
Last year Vincent Hunter came back to Ferro-ZNTU. The forward played for Ferro-ZNTU back in 2009/11 seasons. Eurobasket.com gave Vincent Hunter All-Ukrainian Superleague Honourable Mention in 2010. The current season Vincent Hunter started with MBC Mykolaiv. His stats read 11.9 points, 6.6 boards and 1.4 blocks per game. He was released in December. Last season Vincent Hunter spent in China with Jiangsu. The forward averaged 20.6 points, 11.2 boards, 2.3 steals and 1.4 blocks per appearance. He helped Jiangsu to the NBL title. The forward also had stints in Finland and Slovenia before. Vincent Hunter is meant to replace injured Mike Davis (205-F-88, college: Illinois) on Ferro-ZNTU roster.
In 2011-2012 for Ferro-ZNTU Zaporozhye (Ukraine-Superleague) his stats read 9.2ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.3bpg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 23.5%, FT: 73.4%.


Mathew Witt close to Budivelnyk - by Eurobasket News (T)

Mathew Witt (183-PG-84, college: E.Kentucky) is close to signing deal with Budivelnyk. The point guard has reportedly agreed on terms of contract with the Kyiv team. Last season Mathew Witt spent in Spain. He played for Knet Roja Clavijo. The guard notched 18.2 points, 4.5 assists, 2.5 rebounds and 1.1 steals per game in LEB Gold. He made it into All-Spanish LEB Gold 3rd Team. Previously Mathew Witt had stints with Guadalajara, Den Helder Seals, Schalke 04. Eurobasket.com named the player LEB Silver Guard of the Year in 2011. He led the team to the LEB Silver title that season. Budivelnyk had to enter the market after the injury of their newcomer Tony Skinn. The Nigerian player would be sidelined for several months and Budivelnyk decided to look for the substitution.


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


Darden A Rock - by Paul Nilsen (T)

The Glasgow Rocks are proud to announce the signing of 6'9" athletic Centre, Meneptha Darden (206-C), to fill the void down in the paint. The 24 year old American will be looking to begin his professional career with the Rocks after a successful final year at Rogers State University where he led his team in both rebounds and blocked shots.

Darden's large frame and athletic agility should be a welcoming asset to the Glasgow Rocks as they continue their search for their first piece of Silverware since the 2002/03 Season. The Rocks have always struggled to find the 'right' big man and with a new season dawning, Darden may be the missing piece to the rocks puzzle.

Head Coach, Sterling Davis, had the following to say about his most recent signing: "Meneptha, I feel, is the big we have been wanting for a while now. He is very athletic, agile, and a really good shot blocker. I think what stood out about him is his intensity level when he plays the game. He is the guy who will do whatever needs done for his team to win and really seems to wear his heart on his sleeve."

During his college years, Darden was well regarded as a big time shot blocker and rebounder, facets of the game that will go a long way in cementing Coach Davis' lockdown defensive strategies for the forthcoming season.

His hunger and passion for basketball stood out to Coach Davis: "This guy is hungry to make a name for himself and I feel that he has not been given enough opportunity to prove his worth as yet. Hopefully he will come in and bring everything I envision of him to our team."


Coach Bucknall speaks about path to promotion - by Eurobasket News

England U18 Men head coach Steve Bucknall says the promotion-earning performance of his team at the European Championship in Sarajevo was a case of all pieces falling into place in a carefully designed plan.

Bucknall coached his team to a bronze medal after defeating Finland 73-59 in Englands final game of the tournament on Sunday. The winner of that game would get promoted under FIBA Europes recent ruling that sees the top three teams being promoted to Division A rather than only the top two.

"This years U18 Mens team vision was outlined and clear from the very beginning of the programme, he said. It started with assembling a support staff that would complement each other and benefit the boys.

Bucknall mentioned the importance of recruiting players who moved on after helping Englands U16 Men to a second place finish in Division B in 2011:

Then the goal was to build a winning squad based around the silver medal 1995 [born] group of players who were successful at the U16 level last campaign, he said.

Once the staff was chosen, the only key issues were getting the balance right of 94 born players and also identifying 95 born who were ready to play at this level.

Lastly we had to implement a system that would complement their skill sets and build the foundations of a team. This journey was the fun part as we started to evaluate individuals and build a team philosophy, said Bucknall, a former North Carolina Tarheel and Los Angeles Laker player.

Once Bucknall and his coaching staff had an established roster to work with, it was time to work on the strengths of that particular squad as he relates:

This group of players developed over time into a strong unit who excelled in the rebounding and defensive phases of the game.

Englands 7-foot centre Kingsley Okoroh was one of the hearts of this defensive and rebounding presence, as he averaged a fifth-best 10.8 boards per game and was third overall in blocks, swatting away 2.7 shots per game. Rowell Graham also shone defensively with his 2 steals per game average (7th overall in the Championship).

Lastly, all credit goes to the boys for their hard work. A special mention must go out to the support staff that were all brilliant and the 94 born players who played their hearts out to win us the bronze medal and qualify for Division A next year!

Luke Nelson was Englands leader in scoring (16.7 points per game, 7th in Championship) and he also finished in the tournament top ten in free throw percentage (83.9%, 3rd), minutes played (32.8, 8th) and assists (3.4, 9th). One of Nelsons best games was in the semi-final where he scored 33 points off nearly 62% shooting and pulled in 10 rebounds.
Courtesy of: http://www.englandbasketball.co.uk


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  VTB UNITED LEAGUE   


Jimmy Baron reportedly agreed on terms of contract with Lokomotiv Kuban - by Eurobasket News (T)

Jimmy Baron (191-G-86, college: Rhode Island) is close to landing in Russia. The guard has reportedly reached an agreement on terms of contract with Lokomotiv Kuban. The guard is meant to replace Vlado Ilievski (187-PG-80, agency: Beo Basket) on the roster. Jimmy Baron spent the last three seasons in Spain. He played for Lagun Aro. Last season the guard notched 11.9 points and 2.4 rebounds per game in ACB. He earned All-Spanish ACB Honourable Mention. Jimmy Baron started his pro career in Turkey in 2009. He played for Mersin Belediyesi. His stats read 16.4 points, 2.5 rebounds and 1.2 assists per appearance in TBL. He participated at TBL All-Star Game. Jimmy Baron also earned All-Turkish TBL Honourable Mention.


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  WILLIAM JONES CUP   


2012 Jones Cup Men Day 3 results - by Chris Wang

Boxcores in .png format available for download at https://www.box.com/s/d6319f1344755683f669

Japan 85-80 Taiwan B
http://2012wjc.basketball-tpe.org/files/902-1008-3056-10000.php
Jordan 87-68 Lebanon
http://2012wjc.basketball-tpe.org/files/902-1008-3070-10000.php
UPG (US) 84-75 KGC (South Korea)
http://2012wjc.basketball-tpe.org/files/902-1008-3060-10000.php
Iran 75-64 Taiwan
http://2012wjc.basketball-tpe.org/files/902-1008-3046-10000.php

Standings:
Iran 3-0
Philippines 2-0
UPG (US) 2-0
KGC (South Korea) 2-1
Jordan 1-1
Taiwan 1-2
Japan 1-2
Lebanon 0-3
Taiwan B 0-3



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Women News


Key duo back on board in Logan - by Eurobasket News (T)

BDS Logan Thunder Head Coach Jason Chainey will be relying on the leadership and experience of mainstays Natalie Taylor (182-F-84, college: SE Missouri St.) and Emma Langford (188-F-89, college: Wyoming) for the upcoming 2012/13 WNBL season after both inked one-year deals with the club.

Taylor, a New Zealand international and former Olympian, joins sisters Holly and Cassie Smith as the only three remaining players from the inaugural team, while Langford is one of five players from last years squad.

Faced with the challenge of coaching a new mix of players in his first year in the hot seat, Chainey said the duos experience at the club would be vital.

Nat has the ability to bring valuable leadership to the group, Chainey said of Taylor.

She is one of those people that essentially says to her team mates, Jump on my back and we are going to win this game.

Emma is everything that our program epitomises she has a great work ethic, has great ability, is a great team player and has a very calm demeanour.

By her standards she had a quiet year last year so I am confident she will step up this year.

We have got a number of new faces and while change is good, it is very challenging at the same time and I need all of the older girls to really help us get through this sort of adversity.

Taylor, 30, narrowly missed out on qualifying for the 2012 London Olympics after the Kiwis were defeated by Argentina in the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament.

But the Tall Ferns captain has moved on from the disappointment of missing out on what would have been her second consecutive Olympics campaign and has turned her attention to the upcoming WNBL season.

Ive been playing for the Ballarat Rush in SEABL since the WNBL finished last season as well as representative duties for New Zealand, so Ive had a very full on off-season, Taylor said.

There have been loads of personnel changes in all of the teams this season, not just ours, so that will be interesting and something to look forward to.

Getting to know and learning to play with the new girls is always both fun and challenging and Im sure well get through the challenges and enjoy the fun times.

Having been at the club since its inaugural year it is important to me to have some consistency where I am playing and the group Im with so Im glad to be back on the Logan roster.

23-year-old Langford, who came through the Australian Institute of Sport and boasts a stint with Adelaide Lightning and two years at Wyoming College, is looking to establish herself in her second season at the club after a fruitful off-season with the Ipswich Force.

Im excited to have another season with the girls who are returning from last season and to have Jason as head coach, she said.

Im hoping to build and improve on last season and I want to play a bigger part and make a greater contribution to the team.

Chainey remains on the hunt for a player to fill a reserve centre position behind lifeblood Holly Smith and is waiting to receive the official paperwork that will see a WNBA shooting guard join the side.

The Thunder will start their preseason training early next month.

Courtesy of WNBL Australia


Laura Cornelius leads U17 Holland to second win in Amsterdam - by Eurobasket News

U17 AUSTRALIA - U17 HOLLAND 62-70

Holland downed Australia in Day Three of FIBA U17 World Championship in Amsterdam. The host of this event celebrated 70-62 victory staying alone on third place of Group B. Australia dropped to position No.4 with 1-2. Laura Cornelius (174-PG-96) was unstoppable in this game collecting 28 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists. She reached valuation 30. Isabella Slim (181-F-95) scored 17 points and Lisanne de Jonge (181-F-95) added 10 pts, plus 8 rebs. Australia got 23 points and 5 rebs from Vanessa Panousis (170-PG-95), and Lauren Scherf (194-C-96) added 11 pts, plus 9 boards. They didn't have any other player with double digits in scoring. Quarters: 27-7, 12-20, 16-19, 15-16. Holland will play against winless Brazil on Tuesday and they hope to get another victory. Australia will play against also winless Turkey and it could be the crucial game for both teams.

Australia: Vanessa Panousis, 23+5 boards, Lauren Scherf 11+9 boards
Holland: Laura Cornelius 28+8 boards+5 as, Isabella Slim 17, Lisanne de Jonge 10+8 boards


Lauren Jackson wants Carrie Graf as Opals coach but is undecided on own future - by Eurobasket News

Basketball superstar Lauren Jackson (196-F/C-81) wants to see Carrie Graf continue as Opals coach, but remains undecided about her own international future.

Four-time Olympian Jackson added a bronze to her three silver medals after carrying the flag for Australia at the opening ceremony of the recent London Games.

She returned to Australia for less than a week before leaving on Monday to link up with her American WNBA team Seattle.

She will return to Australia at the conclusion of Seattle's campaign to suit up for WNBL side Canberra, though she could miss the start of the domestic season depending on the Storm's progress.

The Capitals are coached by Graf, who doubles as the Opals mentor.

No decision has been made by Basketball Australia about who will coach the Opals into the future, but asked if she would like to see Graf retain the job Jackson said "absolutely".

"That's something I think BA have to work out with her in terms of contracts and things like that.

"But if that's what she wants, of course."

Jackson, 31, was less decisive about her own international career, which has spanned 15 years and more than 150 senior games.

"I don't know, I'm not sure yet. It just depends on how my body holds out," Jackson said on Monday.

In London, Jackson became the leading female Olympic pointscorer of all time and was again Australia's scoring leader.

She acknowledged the rising status of giant young Opals centre Liz Cambage, who during the Olympics pulled off one of the few female dunks seen in top level competition.
"She's awesome obviously, there's not too many people with a body like hers in basketball and she makes it look easy," Jackson said.

Saddened by the retirement of long-time Opals colleague Kristi Harrower, Jackson was nonetheless confident Australia had the depth at point guard and throughout the team to ensure a bright future for the team.

"I think we've got a lot of talent and I think that was evident in the Games, having a lot of our young players shine," Jackson said.

"It's sad seeing Kristi Harrower go because she's been such an amazing point guard for this country and really one of the best, so it as a great send off for her, winning that last game.

"I think we're looking good."

Courtesy of www.adelaidenow.com.au


QBL: Players of the Week: Round 14 - by Eurobasket News

Taylor Lilley (168-G-88, agency: LBM Management, college: Oregon) from the Northside Wizards has taken out her third Player of the Week award for season 2012, after her stunning performances against Cairns and Townsville at the weekend. The Wizards guard shot 31 points at 55 percent in the field and 50 percent at the perimeter in 25 minutes on Friday night against Cairns, also taking three rebounds, two steals and one assist. Her efforts helped Northside to turn around from trailing by two points at the first break, to go into halftime up by 13 points, before pulling away and dominating the second half to take the 26-point win. Lilley shot 10 points in the third quarter, including two three-pointers to help her side establish a solid lead to take the win out of the reach of Cairns. She backed up her performance the following night against Townsville, notching up 25 points at 50 percent in the field and 41.7 percent at the three-point line, seven rebounds and five assists in the Wizards 87-69 point victory over the Townsville Flames. Lilley was again instrumental in helping Northside to set themselves up for a comfortable win, contributing 10 points in the second half to see the Wizards lead by five points at the halftime break, and nine points in the third quarter to take their lead to 14 points by three-quarter time.

The imports inclusion to the Northside line-up this season has been invaluable to the side, with the team benefiting from her sharp shooting skills Lilley currently leads the leagues shooters with an average of 25.9 points per game, in addition to an average of six rebounds per game. She took out the Player of the Week award in Round 12 after hitting 32 points at a rate of 80 percent in the field to help the Wizards take out their match against the Gold Coast, and also was awarded the title in Round 5, following her 35 point effort in Northsides win over Brisbane. Born in California, its the 24 year olds first season in the QBL and in Australia, joining the league following a successful college career in the United States with the University of Oregon, where she averaged 17.7 points per game in her final year in 2010, set a single-season college record in the 2006/2007 season, hitting 50.6 percent at the perimeter from 77 attempts, and set a new record for the college with 214 three-pointer attempts, with her 74 three-pointers in the same season ranked second in Oregon single-season history, during the 2007/2008 season. She was also ranked fourth all-time in Oregon history with her 146 career three-pointers. Lilleys statistics saw her named in the All-Pac-10 3rd Team in 2008, and All-Pac 10 Team in 2010 for the NCAA Pacific Conference, and also named as an All-American in 2010. Post-college, Lilley was picked up by the Phoenix Mercury WNBA team in 2010, playing 22 games in the season, and going to the WNBA semifinals. In 2010/2011 Lilley played for Israeli league team Maagan Michael, before returning to the states to re-join the Mercury for the WNBA pre-season.

Lilley took out this weeks title over a number of other strong performers in Round 14, including Briana Johnson from the Maroochydore Clippers, who shot 17 points and took 16 rebounds in the Clippers win over South West Metro. Shanavia Dowdell was strong for the Rockhampton Cyclones in their win over Mackay, with 18 points, 10 rebounds, five assists and three steals, while Bundabergs Rachel Maenpaa (185-C-84, agency: Regeneracom Sports, college: Indiana St.) and Alice Honnery both had solid performances with Maenpaa scoring 15 points, 10 rebounds and six assists, and Honnery with 12 points, 17 rebounds, three blocks and two assists.
Courtesy of: qbl.basketball.net.au


QBL: Weekend Wrap-Up: Round 14 - by Eurobasket News

Cairns Dolphins 58 def. by Northside Wizards 84

The Dolphins held a narrow lead in the first quarter but lost it soon into the second term, with the Wizards proving too strong, stealing the lead and running away with it for the remainder of the match. Northsides Taylor Lilley (168-G-88, agency: LBM Management, college: Oregon) took out the Player of the Week award with her 31 point effort in the match, while Cayla Francis (192-C-89) wasnt far behind with 30 points for Cairns.

Rockhampton Cyclones 72 def. Mackay Meteorettes 59

The top-of-the-table clash saw a hard-fought battle, with scores kept tight in the first half. The Cyclones managed to hold an eight-point advantage at halftime, and were able to hold onto the lead for the rest of the game, despite continued pressure from Mackay. Shanavia Dowdell (188-F-87, agency: LBM Management, college: Louisiana Tech) shot 18 points for Rockhampton while Rachel Allison top-scored for the Meteorettes with 19. Rockhampton Rockets 81 def. Mackay Meteorettes 70

Gladstone Power 78 def Toowoomba Mountaineers 56

The Power maintained their dominance in the league, holding the game in their hands from the first quarter and running away with it to ensure themselves another win before the finals. Natalie Hurst and Rebecca Haynes both shot 16 points for Gladstone while Krystal Watson (183-F/C-90, college: Md-E Shore) and Janelle Adams (175-G-90, college: Cleveland St.) both hit 11 points for Toowoomba.

Maroochydore Clippers 84 def. South West Metro Pirates 68

Another close match with both teams out to try to finish their season on a high the lead changing hands on a number of occasions. Maroochydore got the better of the Pirates in the final quarter, however, and secured themselves the 16 point win.

Townsville Flames 69 def. by Northside Wizards 87

The Wizards got the lead early and held onto it for the entire match, despite consistent attempts by the Flames to crawl the lead back and gain the upper hand. Taylor Lilley again had a strong game to earn her Player of the Week title, with 25 points, while Lisa Braunberger shot 17 for Townsville.

Bundaberg Bears 63 def. Toowoomba Mountaineers 39

It was a close first half with the Mountaineers keeping up with the Bears, but the home side eventually got the upper hand to take the spoils. Rachel Maenpaa put up 15 points for Bundaberg while Janelle Adams shot 13 points for Toowoomba.

Courtesy of: qbl.basketball.net.au


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  BELARUS   


Vologda Chevakata bring in Snytsina - by Eurobasket News (T)

Vologda Chevakata bring in Katerina Snytsina (188-F-85) for the next season. The Belarus International comes back to Russia. Last year she played for Horizont and averaged 13.5ppg, 5.0rpg, 1.8apg, 2.2spg, FGP: 47.9%, 3PT: 41.2%, FT: 77.8%.
In 2009-2010 she signed with Nadezhda Orenburg (Russia-A Superleague) and in EuroCup averaged 11.9ppg, 4.0rpg, 2.6apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 44.3%, 3PT: 30.8%, FT: 75.0%. In Russian League after 13 games her stats read 15.6ppg, 3.8rpg, 1.2apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 45.6%, 3PT: 50.0%, FT: 84.6%.
In 2010-2011 for Nadezhda Orenburg (Russia-PBL) her stats read 9.2ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 52.1%, 3PT: 29.7%, FT: 81.8%. The season 2011-2012 she also started for Nadezhda Orenburg (Russia-PBL), but now moved to Belarus.
At the European Championships in Poland -11 in 6 games v averaged 9.0ppg, 4.2rpg, FGP: 53.3%, 3PT: 20.8%, FT: 87.5%. Last year she also became Russian Cup Finalist -11. Earlier she became Eurobasket.com All-Russian Superleague Honorable Mention -10 and Eurobasket.com Russian Superleague All-Bosmans Team -10. In 2009 she became Polish PLKK Champion with Lotos.


Minsk 2006 gets bigger with Viktoriya Hasper - by Eurobasket News (T)

Minsk 2006 officially announced signing of Viktoriya Hasper (193-C-88) for the upcoming season. The Belarusian National Team center arrives from Gorizont Minsk. She had 9.3 ppg and 5 rpg for them in 8 EuroCup games last season. In Premier league Hasper collected 10.6 ppg and 8 rpg for 21 appearances, while her numbers were lower in 7 BWBL games. Viktoriya Hasper played for Gorizont also in 2010/11 season. Before that, she spent one year with Berezina-RCOR Borisvo. From 2006 to 2008, Hasper played for the Russian squad Vologda-Chevakata. She is active member of the Belarusian National Team since 2005. She had 2.8 ppg and 2 rpg for 5 games in 2013 EuroBasket qualifications this summer. In 2010, Hasper was named Eurobasket.com All-BWBL Player of the Year -10 and Eurobasket.com All-Belarusian League Center of the Year -10.


U20 Sweden downs U20 Belarus 76-65 in Debrecen - by Eurobasket News

U20 SWEDEN - U20 BELARUS 76-65

Sweden outplayed Belarus 76-65 to start the second stage at U20 EuroBasket in Debrecen. Both teams had 1-1 record in Group E before this meeting. Now, Sweden shares the second place with Poland, while Belarus has the same score as 4th ranked Holland. Farhiya Abdi (188-F-92) (9 rebs) and Ellen Nystrom (180-G-93) led the winners with 15 points each, while Binta Drammeh (180-F-92) followed them with 14 pts and 7 rebs. In defeat, Maryia Filonchyk (187-PF-92) was better than the others with double-double of 21 points and 10 rebs, and Maryia Papova (186-PF-94) netted 16 points (5 rebs). Maryna Ivashchanka (190-C-93) stopped to 12 points and 6 boards. Sweden had double digit lead with ten minutes remaining in the game and it was too much for Belarus. Quarters: 23-18, 22-22, 18-11, 13-14. Sweden will play against Spain today and the winner will secure a ticket for the Quarterfinals. Belarus will meet Poland, also in very important game.

Sweden: Farhiya Abdi 15+9 boards, Ellen Nystrom 15, Binta Drammeh 14+7 boards
Belarus: Maryia Filonchyk 21+10 boards, Maryia Papova 16+5 boards, Maryna Ivashchanka 12+6 boards


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  BELGIUM   


U17 Canada beats U17 Belgium 50-45 for the first win in Amsterdam - by Eurobasket News

U17 CANADA - U17 BELGIUM 50-45

Canada grabbed 50-45 win over Belgium in Day Three of FIBA U17 World Championship. This is the first win for Canada in Amsterdam, which allowed them to join South Korea at fourth place in Group A with 1-2 record. At the other side, Canada faced with its first loss and slipped to 2-1 in this pool sharing the second place with Italy. Canada was up by 9 with one quarter left in the game. Belgium seriously threatened for rest of the way, but Canada managed to keep its lead and to celebrate first win in Amsterdam. Quarters: 15-14, 8-6, 11-5, 16-20. Emma Wolfram (193-C-95) paced Canada with 12 points and 7 rebounds. Their second scorer was Kia Nurse (180-PG-96) with 9 pts, while Saicha Grant-Allen (193-F-95) added 6 points and 9 rebs to this win. Belgium didn't have anyone with double digits in scoring. Hind Ben Abdelkader (173-SG-95), Anneleen De Baets (166-G-95) and Julie Allemand (173-PG-96) were their best players with 9 points each. All teams will take a rest on Monday. In the next game (Tuesday), Canada will play against Mali and another win is expected. Belgium will meet powerful USA and it is hard a believe they will be able to avoid defeat in this meeting.

Canada: Emma Wolfram 12+7 boards, Kia Nurse 9, Saicha Grant-Allen 6+9 boards
Belgium: Hind Ben Abdelkader 9, Anneleen De Baets 9, Julie Allemand 9


U20 Belgium takes second win in Klatovy - by Eurobasket News

U20 SWITZERLAND - U20 BELGIUM 59-64

Belgium celebrated 64-59 win over Switzerland in Day Four of U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. Thanks to this win Belgium jumped to 2-2 record at this event, while at the other side Switzerland dropped to 0-3. Belgium had impressive start today making 28-11 lead. Switzerland replied with 16-6 in the second quarter and 14-10 in Q3. Switzerland continued in the same rhythm and grabbed 2-point lead at the halfway of the last period. However, Belgium created 14-7 run after that and jumped to 59-54 lead with 42 seconds to go. It was too much for Switzerland. Emmanuella Mayombo (170-SG-92, agency: LBM Management) led Belgium with 17 points and Liza Biebuyck (173-G/F-93) followed her with 12 pts. Evi Hayse (181-C/F-93) helped with 8 points and 6 rebounds. In defeat, Rosalie Grobet (185-F/C-92) was better than the others with 19 points and 10 rebounds, and Sarah Cavin (178-SF-92) was their second scorer with 13 points. On Tuesday, Belgium will meet Germany. Switzerland will play against Israel.

Switzerland: Rosalie Grobet 19+10 boards, Sarah Cavin 13
Belgium: Emmanuella Mayombo 17, Liza Biebuyck 12, Evi Hayse 8+6 boards


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  BRAZIL   


U17 Spain books Quarterfinals ticket in Amsterdam - by Eurobasket News

U17 BRAZIL - U17 SPAIN 42-79

Spain cruised to third straight victory at FIBA U17 World Championship in Amsterdam. They smashed Brazil 79-42 for 3-0 record in Preliminary Group B. Thanks to this win Spain already booked a ticket for the Quarterfinals. At the other side, Brazil is in difficult situation now as they dropped to 0-3, but they still have a chance to advance. Spain was up by 6 at the halftime and totally took control on Brazil after that. Spain made huge 31-9 after the breather and Q4 was just the formality. Yaiza Rodriguez (163-PG-95) stepped up for the winners with 14 points, while Ariadna Pujol (182-F-95) collected 11 points, 6 assists and 5 rebs. Marina Lizarazu (175-G-95) also scored 11 pts in this game. Vitoria Domingos (96) top-scored in defeat with 9 points and Izabella Sangalli (181-F-95) had one less. Kananda Ribeiro posted 6 points for Brazil. Spain will play against Japan on Tuesday and it will be a game for the first place in Group B. Brazil will meet host Holland in very important game and only win can keep Brazil's Quarterfinals hopes alive.

Brazil: Vitoria Domingos 9, Izabella Sangalli 8
Spain: Yaiza Rodriguez 14, Ariadna Pujol 11+6 as+5 boards, Marina Lizarazu 11


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  BULGARIA   


U20 Hungary jumps to 3-0 in Klatovy - by Eurobasket News

U20 BULGARIA - U20 HUNGARY 38-41

Third straight win for Hungary at U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. This time Hungary outsmarted Bulgaria in a low scoring game 41-38. Bulgaria had 38-37 lead with 2:26 remaining, but they were scoreless for rest of the way. At the other side, Anna Mansare (188-F/C-92) made a jump shot for Hungary and Zsofia Licskai (191-C/F-93) sealed the victory with lay-up. Quarters: 12-10, 5-12, 12-6, 12-10. Mansare scored 10 points in win and Licskai added 8 pts, plus 8 rebounds. Third scorer in Hungary was Viktoria Fuisz (175-G/F-93) with 7 points. In defeat, Gabriela Kostova (192-C-94) was better than the others with 12 points and 5 rebounds, while Iva Kostova (178-SG-94) had 9 pts and 5 boards. Championship continues on Tuesday. Hungary will take on Romania and Bulgaria will meet the host - Czech Republic.

Bulgaria: Gabriela Kostova 12+5 boards, Iva Kostova 9+5 boards
Hungary: Anna Mansare 10, Zsofia Licskai 8+8 boards, Viktoria Fuisz 7


Jessica Koch is the addition of BC Haskovo 2012 - by Valentin Anguelov

Jessica Koch recently graduated from University of Missouri Western State is the new addition of BC Haskovo 2012 for the upcoming season. She became the third american player in the team as they previously signed with Susan Lester and Tonia Gerty. Koch signed a one year contract with the team and will spend his first year of professional career in Bulgarian League. Haskovo 2012 will make their debut in the Bulgarian best division as they recently became a member of the League.

Koch is a player who plays at both position 2 and 3. She is 178 cm tall, versatile player who can go inside an out. Born in Kansas City, USA Koch played at St. Piux X in Kansas and was was a first team All-District and All-Conference selection.

Last few seasons she played for University of Missouri Western State in the second division of the NCAA and was as a true role model and leader of the team. With a total of 1776 points Koch hold all-time record of his university, and with an average of 22.0 points last season was the fourth scorer in the second divisions of colleges across America. In addition to points, Koch broke few other records for the history of her university. Last year she averaged 6.5 rebounds, 3.4 assists and 2.8 steals for 27 games. She received a Honorable mention from all the coaches association in American universities after the season was over.

Lynn Plett, former head coach of University of Missouri Western said that in 32 years of coaching experience he never had such a hard working player as Koch is. The new mentor of the young and talented american - Elena Stankova added: "After review of all videos of Jessica I liked her game a lot as she is a scorer, very aggressive, intelligent and team player. I think it fits very well in our team formation and style of play that will try to show in Haskovo 2012"

Besides the three Americans, Haskovo 2012 is having also one of the best guards in Bulgaria - Stanislava Stankova and several promising young players. Good selection before the start of the championship clearly underlines the high ambitions of the club for next season. The three Americans will arrive in late August as the team will begin preparation for the new season in early September.


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  CANADA   


UWIC coach Jennings prepares for move to Canada - by Eurobasket News

As he prepares to move to Canada to become head coach of the University of Calgary, UWIC Archers coach Damien Jennings admits it will be tough to say goodbye to British basketball.

It is sad to say goodbye to UWIC Archers and Great Britain, admitted Damien Jennings , but two years ago I decided I wanted to coach full-time so have been reviewing several overseas options as there simply arent many full-time coaching jobs in basketball in the UK that can match the situation I was in.

I really wanted to finish the cycle with the GB squad group we had recruited at UWIC given their commitment to our Archers Academy and perhaps we all just felt 2011-12 was the most important year of preparation so I turned down previous calls to leave for full-time coaching until the role at the University of Calgary fortuitously went to interview after the season had finished.

Damien Jennings leaves the Cardiff university with a record of success behind him: The Archers programme has made gigantic steps since 2006 from our days mid-table in EBL Division Two to winning over 35 medals/trophies in the EBL and BUCS combined.

Making five successive BUCS finals with three back-to-back championships along route, accumulating a 46-game unbeaten run, whilst achieving the EBL One Playoff title within three seasons of being promoted makes me incredibly proud of all the efforts of those that supported our ambition.

Over six years we have not just become an apprenticeship hub for GB talent but have helped nurture over 30 international basketball players representing six different countries!

As for the EBLs contribution to the future it is about establishing an appropriate, sustainable funding structure; development focused clubs and an investment in the improvement of coaching so that the EBL and the UK can be a genuine alternative to the USA system for our most talented players and a genuine vocation-based option for our aspiring coaches - I would like to think for at least six years we tried to achieve these ambitions in our business model at the Archers but unfortunately a sustainable funding stream became the glass ceiling.

GB womens assistant Damien Jennings believes that the future of team is in safe hands. Britain failed to get a win in their five games at the Olympics, but produced some excellent performances that drew praise throughout the sport, and went agonisingly close to beating silver medallists France.

The Olympics was obviously an excellent experience said Damien Jennings . To be more specific the whole preparation phase, given that we were together since May 6th was an invaluable experience and journey.

The future for Team GB and British basketball looks bright with Temi [Fagbenle] making the step-up to senior level from the Under 20s we took into Division A last summer and three of the Futures players making the final Olympic 12 - with Azania Stewart and Jo Leedham also eligible last year for the World University Games side we took to China - so again it just highlights that the youthful age, yet experience, of at least half of the Olympic 12 displays a future with prospects.

Damien Jennings guided the GB Under 20 team to promotion in 2010, and they exceeded all expectations last summer with an eighth place finish in their Division A debut. Damien Jennings also coached the World Student Games team in China with some encouraging results.
Courtesy of: http://www.englandbasketball.co.uk


U17 Canada beats U17 Belgium 50-45 for the first win in Amsterdam - by Eurobasket News

U17 CANADA - U17 BELGIUM 50-45

Canada grabbed 50-45 win over Belgium in Day Three of FIBA U17 World Championship. This is the first win for Canada in Amsterdam, which allowed them to join South Korea at fourth place in Group A with 1-2 record. At the other side, Canada faced with its first loss and slipped to 2-1 in this pool sharing the second place with Italy. Canada was up by 9 with one quarter left in the game. Belgium seriously threatened for rest of the way, but Canada managed to keep its lead and to celebrate first win in Amsterdam. Quarters: 15-14, 8-6, 11-5, 16-20. Emma Wolfram (193-C-95) paced Canada with 12 points and 7 rebounds. Their second scorer was Kia Nurse (180-PG-96) with 9 pts, while Saicha Grant-Allen (193-F-95) added 6 points and 9 rebs to this win. Belgium didn't have anyone with double digits in scoring. Hind Ben Abdelkader (173-SG-95), Anneleen De Baets (166-G-95) and Julie Allemand (173-PG-96) were their best players with 9 points each. All teams will take a rest on Monday. In the next game (Tuesday), Canada will play against Mali and another win is expected. Belgium will meet powerful USA and it is hard a believe they will be able to avoid defeat in this meeting.

Canada: Emma Wolfram 12+7 boards, Kia Nurse 9, Saicha Grant-Allen 6+9 boards
Belgium: Hind Ben Abdelkader 9, Anneleen De Baets 9, Julie Allemand 9


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  EUROCUP   


Dynamo Moscow brings in NT guard Ilona Korstin - by Eurobasket News (T)

Dynamo Moscow added another new player for the upcoming season. The team penned a 1-year deal with Russian National Team guard Ilona Korstin (182-SG-80, agency: Josep and Nicolas). She split last season between Turkish Besiktas and Spanish Perfumerias. Korstin appeared 12 times with the former Euroleague and Spanish champ averaging 4.7 points and 3 rebounds in LFB. She also added 3.5 ppg and 1.5 spg for two Euroleague games. With Besiktas, the guard registered 7.4 ppg and 4.6 rpg in TKBL, plus 10.6 ppg and 6.5 rpg for 8 EuroCup games. Before Besiktas, Ilona Korstin spent two years with Spartak Vidnoe Moscow Region. In the past, she played for CSKA Moscow and Samara. Ilona Korstin is active member of the Russian National Team since 2001. She had 2 ppg and 1.6 rpg for 8 games at the Olympic Games in London.


Kibirkstis-Tiche-IKI Vilnius inks experienced Rima Valentiene - by Eurobasket News (T)

Kibirkstis-Tiche-IKI Vilnius officially announced signing of Rima Valentiene (170-PG-78) to a 1-year deal. The player spent last two seasons with VICI Aistes Kaunas. In the latest one she had 5.3 ppg and 1.5 rpg in 14 Euroleague games. She also had 4.2 ppg, 2.3 rpg and 2 apg for 27 games in LMKL, plus 4 ppg and 1.9 rpg for 8 BWBL appearances. They won two Lithuanian league titles and two Cup trophies together. Before VICI Aistes Kaunas, Rima Valentiene spent one season with SK Cesis. In the past, she played for TEO Vilnius. Valentiene won five championship titles with the Vilnius team. The point guard played for the Lithuanian National Team from 2001 until the last summer. She had 6.9 ppg and 2.3 rpg for 9 games in Poland.
Recently, Vilnius Kibirkstis-Tiche-IKI penned a deal with American center Celeste Trahan (184-C-85, agency: LBM Management, college: Elizabeth City).


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  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U20   


Health situation in Debrecen - by Eurobasket News

Regarding the issue around the hospitalisation of a number of players, team delegation members and Organising Committee staff at the U20 European Championship Women 2012 in Debrecen, Hungary, FIBA Europe would like to clarify the following:

On the opening day of the tournament 22 players were affected by sickness and a total of 32 persons, including delegation members, have been hospitalised. Seven of these have been taken to the University Hospital, while 25 have been under observation in the Department of Infection at the Kenzy Gyula Hospital. The majority of the players have returned to their teams, with the last ones expected to be released from hospital on Monday.

Since this outbreak, the local health authorities have provided assurances that the situation is under control. The Public Health Service has launched an investigation to determine the cause.

In a meeting on Sunday, all teams were informed about the first results which indicate that the players were infected with salmonella. According to preliminary results, the players most probably got infected at the dinner at the opening ceremony on Wednesday. The restaurant where the dinner took place is not connected in any way with the teams' hotel. The final full set of results will be available on Tuesday.

The management of the teams' hotel have been taking proactive measures from the start of this outbreak to provide the highest hygiene standards and help the teams in the best possible way and the Local Organising Committee are making every effort possible to ensure a fast and complete recovery, as the health of all participants is of course a high priority.

Courtesy of FIBA Europe


Division B: Day Four in Klatovy - by Eurobasket News

Switzerland - Belgium 59-64
Belgium celebrated 64-59 win over Switzerland in Day Four of U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. Thanks to this win Belgium jumped to 2-2 record at this event, while at the other side Switzerland dropped to 0-3. Belgium had impressive start today making 28-11 lead. Switzerland replied with 16-6 in the second quarter and 14-10 in Q3. Switzerland continued in the same rhythm and grabbed 2-point lead at the halfway of the last period. However, Belgium created 14-7 run after that and jumped to 59-54 lead with 42 seconds to go. It was too much for Switzerland. Emmanuella Mayombo (170-SG-92, agency: LBM Management) led Belgium with 17 points and Liza Biebuyck (173-G/F-93) followed her with 12 pts. Evi Hayse (181-C/F-93) helped with 8 points and 6 rebounds. In defeat, Rosalie Grobet (185-F/C-92) was better than the others with 19 points and 10 rebounds, and Sarah Cavin (178-SF-92) was their second scorer with 13 points. On Tuesday, Belgium will meet Germany. Switzerland will play against Israel.

Germany - Greece 41-48
Germany extended its wining streak to four at U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. They outplayed Germany today 48-41 for 4-0 record at this event. Third quarter was the crucial one in this meeting. Germany had minimum lead at the halftime, but Greece took control on them after that making 15-6 in third period for plus 8 with ten minutes to go. All what Germany managed to do for rest of the way was minus 3. Artemis Spanou (184-F-93) was a key player in victory with 25 points and 15 rebounds. She reached valuation 24. Anastasia Slouka (182-SG-93) and Anthoula Chatzigiakoumi (187-F-92) (8 rebs) had 7 and 6 points respectively. Germany got 13 points and 6 rebs from Sonja Greinacher (192-F/C-92, college: Gonzaga), while Judith Schmidt (186-F/C-92) had 7 points and 8 boards. Greece will take a day-off tomorrow. Germany will play against Belgium.

Romania - Israel 80-73 OT
Both teams had 1-2 record before this meeting. Romania grabbed 80-73 OT win against Israel joining Belgium at fifth place in U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. Israel dropped to seventh place with 1-3 score. Israel had 66-68 lead in the finish of regular time, but Cristina Bigica (182-G/F-92) than made a lay-up for Romania with only 2 seconds to go. Romania made crucial 7-1 run at the beginning of extra time and later managed to keep its lead for rest of the way. Bigica paced the winning squad with 22 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists. Sonia Ursu (175-SG-93) (9 rebs) and Alexandra Ionescu (175-PG-92) helped their team with 18 points each. In the loosing squad, Bar Gilinski (185-PF-92) shined with 25 points and 12 rebounds. Avigiel Cohen (182-G-92) and Thea Lemberger (175-G-92) posted 15 points each. Quarters: 16-23, 13-15, 22-17, 17-13, 12-5 OT. In the next game Romania will meet Hungary, while Israel will play against Switzerland.

Bulgaria - Hungary 38-41
Third straight win for Hungary at U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. This time Hungary outsmarted Bulgaria in a low scoring game 41-38. Bulgaria had 38-37 lead with 2:26 remaining, but they were scoreless for rest of the way. At the other side, Anna Mansare (188-F/C-92) made a jump shot for Hungary and Zsofia Licskai (191-C/F-93) sealed the victory with lay-up. Quarters: 12-10, 5-12, 12-6, 12-10. Mansare scored 10 points in win and Licskai added 8 pts, plus 8 rebounds. Third scorer in Hungary was Viktoria Fuisz (175-G/F-93) with 7 points. In defeat, Gabriela Kostova (192-C-94) was better than the others with 12 points and 5 rebounds, while Iva Kostova (178-SG-94) had 9 pts and 5 boards. Championship continues on Tuesday. Hungary will take on Romania and Bulgaria will meet the host - Czech Republic.


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  FIBA AMERICAS U18   


Latinbasket.com All-FIBA Americas U18 Awards 2012 - by Eurobasket Center

Latinbasket.com All-FIBA Americas U18 1st Team
#s#
Breanna Stewart
Stewart
Micaela Sancisi
Sancisi
Michaela Mabrey
Mabrey
Isabela Ramona
Ramona
Morgan Tuck
Tuck
#e#5

MVP: Breanna Stewart (191-F/C-94) of USA
Best Guard: Michaela Mabrey (175-G-94) of USA
Best Forward: Isabela Ramona (178-F-94) of Brazil
Best Center: Breanna Stewart (191-F/C-94) of USA
Best Coach: Katie Meier of USA

1st Team
PG: Micaela Sancisi (168-94) of Argentina
G: Michaela Mabrey (175-94) of USA
F: Isabela Ramona (178-94) of Brazil
F: Morgan Tuck (188-94) of USA
F/C: Breanna Stewart (191-94) of USA

2nd Team
PG: Lexie Brown (175-94) of USA
G/F: Alexis Prince (188-94) of USA
F: Maria Fonseca (179-94) of Brazil
F: Bashaara Graves (188-94) of USA
C: Maria Faz (-95) of Mexico

Honorable Mention
Maria Tapias (G-95) of Colombia
Laura Ramirez (94) of Colombia
Victoria Llorente (184-F/C-96) of Argentina
Diamalises Rivera (G-94) of Puerto Rico
Myriam Lara () of Mexico
Moriah Jefferson (170-G-94) of USA
Paige Crozon (186-F-94) of Canada


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  GERMANY   


Another win for U20 Greece in Klatovy - by Eurobasket News

U20 GERMANY - U20 GREECE 41-48

Germany extended its wining streak to four at U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. They outplayed Germany today 48-41 for 4-0 record at this event. Third quarter was the crucial one in this meeting. Germany had minimum lead at the halftime, but Greece took control on them after that making 15-6 in third period for plus 8 with ten minutes to go. All what Germany managed to do for rest of the way was minus 3. Artemis Spanou (184-F-93) was a key player in victory with 25 points and 15 rebounds. She reached valuation 24. Anastasia Slouka (182-SG-93) and Anthoula Chatzigiakoumi (187-F-92) (8 rebs) had 7 and 6 points respectively. Germany got 13 points and 6 rebs from Sonja Greinacher (192-F/C-92, college: Gonzaga), while Judith Schmidt (186-F/C-92) had 7 points and 8 boards. Greece will take a day-off tomorrow. Germany will play against Belgium.

Germany: Sonja Greinacher 13+6 boards, Judith Schmidt 7+8 boards
Greece: Artemis Spanou 25+15 boards, Anastasia Slouka 7, Anthoula Chatzigiakoumi 6+8 boards


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  GREECE   


Another win for U20 Greece in Klatovy - by Eurobasket News

U20 GERMANY - U20 GREECE 41-48

Germany extended its wining streak to four at U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. They outplayed Germany today 48-41 for 4-0 record at this event. Third quarter was the crucial one in this meeting. Germany had minimum lead at the halftime, but Greece took control on them after that making 15-6 in third period for plus 8 with ten minutes to go. All what Germany managed to do for rest of the way was minus 3. Artemis Spanou (184-F-93) was a key player in victory with 25 points and 15 rebounds. She reached valuation 24. Anastasia Slouka (182-SG-93) and Anthoula Chatzigiakoumi (187-F-92) (8 rebs) had 7 and 6 points respectively. Germany got 13 points and 6 rebs from Sonja Greinacher (192-F/C-92, college: Gonzaga), while Judith Schmidt (186-F/C-92) had 7 points and 8 boards. Greece will take a day-off tomorrow. Germany will play against Belgium.

Germany: Sonja Greinacher 13+6 boards, Judith Schmidt 7+8 boards
Greece: Artemis Spanou 25+15 boards, Anastasia Slouka 7, Anthoula Chatzigiakoumi 6+8 boards


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  HOLLAND   


U20 Spain cruises past U20 Holland, extends winning streak in Debrecen - by Eurobasket News

U20 HOLLAND - U20 SPAIN 41-70

Spain had no mercy for Holland in the opening round of the second stage at U20 EuroBasket in Derbecen. It was 70-41 win for Spain, who now has 3-0 record in Group E. Spain already booked a ticket for the Quarterfinals at this event. They made 14-point lead until the halftime and jumped to plus 20 with one quarter left. Holland was not able to reply and actually Spain increased its lead to the final plus 29. Queralt Casas (180-G-92) and Marta Claret (185-C-92) netted 16 and 14 points respectively for the winners. Their third scorer was Elena Diaz (188-C-92) with 9 points. In the loosing squad, Marlou De Kleijn (182-F-92, agency: Regeneracom Sports) and Liesbeth Visser (169-PG-92) top-scored with just 7 points each. Holland dropped to 1-2 now sharing the fourth place with Belarus. Spain is alone on top of this pool. Today Spain will play against Sweden, while Holland will take on Lithuania.

Holland: Marlou De Kleijn 7, Liesbeth Visser 7
Spain: Queralt Casas 16, Marta Claret 14, Elena Diaz 9


Laura Cornelius leads U17 Holland to second win in Amsterdam - by Eurobasket News

U17 AUSTRALIA - U17 HOLLAND 62-70

Holland downed Australia in Day Three of FIBA U17 World Championship in Amsterdam. The host of this event celebrated 70-62 victory staying alone on third place of Group B. Australia dropped to position No.4 with 1-2. Laura Cornelius (174-PG-96) was unstoppable in this game collecting 28 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists. She reached valuation 30. Isabella Slim (181-F-95) scored 17 points and Lisanne de Jonge (181-F-95) added 10 pts, plus 8 rebs. Australia got 23 points and 5 rebs from Vanessa Panousis (170-PG-95), and Lauren Scherf (194-C-96) added 11 pts, plus 9 boards. They didn't have any other player with double digits in scoring. Quarters: 27-7, 12-20, 16-19, 15-16. Holland will play against winless Brazil on Tuesday and they hope to get another victory. Australia will play against also winless Turkey and it could be the crucial game for both teams.

Australia: Vanessa Panousis, 23+5 boards, Lauren Scherf 11+9 boards
Holland: Laura Cornelius 28+8 boards+5 as, Isabella Slim 17, Lisanne de Jonge 10+8 boards


North Sea Development Cup won by Sweden - by Bas Hendriks

Four teams participated in the North Sea Development Cup this weekend in Amsterdam. The u15 teams of the respective countries met eachother on court and later on went to visit the worldcup U17 taking place a few blocks away. Circumstances were pretty heavy in the Dutch Apollohal gym where Dutch coach Ria Broring led the hometeam. Sweden was the stronges team in the tournament, adding to the promising future of the Scandinavian part.

The scores:
Holland- Denmark 61-30
Sweden - Germany 54-62
Holland - Sweden 53-59
Germany - Denmark : 54-70
Holland - Germany 54-70
Germany-Sweden 54-70


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  HUNGARY   


U20 Hungary jumps to 3-0 in Klatovy - by Eurobasket News

U20 BULGARIA - U20 HUNGARY 38-41

Third straight win for Hungary at U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. This time Hungary outsmarted Bulgaria in a low scoring game 41-38. Bulgaria had 38-37 lead with 2:26 remaining, but they were scoreless for rest of the way. At the other side, Anna Mansare (188-F/C-92) made a jump shot for Hungary and Zsofia Licskai (191-C/F-93) sealed the victory with lay-up. Quarters: 12-10, 5-12, 12-6, 12-10. Mansare scored 10 points in win and Licskai added 8 pts, plus 8 rebounds. Third scorer in Hungary was Viktoria Fuisz (175-G/F-93) with 7 points. In defeat, Gabriela Kostova (192-C-94) was better than the others with 12 points and 5 rebounds, while Iva Kostova (178-SG-94) had 9 pts and 5 boards. Championship continues on Tuesday. Hungary will take on Romania and Bulgaria will meet the host - Czech Republic.

Bulgaria: Gabriela Kostova 12+5 boards, Iva Kostova 9+5 boards
Hungary: Anna Mansare 10, Zsofia Licskai 8+8 boards, Viktoria Fuisz 7


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  ISRAEL   


U20 Romania grabs 80-73 OT win against U20 Israel - by Eurobasket News

U20 ROMANIA - U20 ISRAEL 80-73 OT

Both teams had 1-2 record before this meeting. Romania grabbed 80-73 OT win against Israel joining Belgium at fifth place in U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. Israel dropped to seventh place with 1-3 score. Israel had 66-68 lead in the finish of regular time, but Cristina Bigica (182-G/F-92) than made a lay-up for Romania with only 2 seconds to go. Romania made crucial 7-1 run at the beginning of extra time and later managed to keep its lead for rest of the way. Bigica paced the winning squad with 22 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists. Sonia Ursu (175-SG-93) (9 rebs) and Alexandra Ionescu (175-PG-92) helped their team with 18 points each. In the loosing squad, Bar Gilinski (185-PF-92) shined with 25 points and 12 rebounds. Avigiel Cohen (182-G-92) and Thea Lemberger (175-G-92) posted 15 points each. Quarters: 16-23, 13-15, 22-17, 17-13, 12-5 OT. In the next game Romania will meet Hungary, while Israel will play against Switzerland.

Romania: Cristina Bigica 22+9 boards+6 as, Sonia Ursu 18+9 boards, Alexandra Ionescu 18
Israel: Bar Gilinski 25+12 boards, Avigiel Cohen 15, Thea Lemberger 15


Maccabi Ashdod adds F Danielle Adams - by Eurobasket News (T)

Maccabi Ashdod announced another signing for the upcoming season. The reigning Israeli champion inked a deal with American forward Danielle Adams (185-F/C-89, college: Texas A&M). She is currently a member of the WNBA team San Antonio Silver Stars. Adams averages 11.4 points and 4.7 rebounds this season after 20 games. In 2011, the player had 12.2 ppg and 4.2 rpg for 26 games with San Antonio. It was her first season as a pro. Danielle Adams played for Italian Pallacanestro Pozzuoli in 2011/12. There she collected 15.7 ppg and 6.2 rpg for 10 games. The player was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Italian A1 Honorable Mention Team -12. Danielle Adams graduated at Texas A&M University something more than a year ago. She transferred to Texas A&M in 2009 from Jefferson CC (JUCO).


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  ITALY   


U17 USA hands first loss to U17 Italy, 83-43 - by Eurobasket News

U17 USA - U17 ITALY 83-43

USA cruised to another victory at FIBA U17 World Championship in Amsterdam. They smashed Italy 83-43 handing them the first loss at this event. It means that USA stays alone on top of Group A with perfect 3-0 record, while Italy dropped to 2-1 and now has the same score as Belgium. USA dominated from the start and after each minute their lead was bigger and bigger. Quarters: 25-13, 18-6, 24-9, 16-15. Rebecca Greenwell (6'0''-G-95) led USA with 16 points and 9 rebounds, and Taya Reimer (6'3''-F-95) helped with 12 points, plus 5 boards. Diamond Deshields (6'1''-G/F-95) (7 as), Linnae Harper (5'8''-G-95) (6 rebs) and Brianna Turner (6'3''-F-96) posted 11 points each. At the other side, Italy's best scorer was Sofia Marangoni (5'9''-PG-95) with only 8 points. Cecilia Zandalasini (6'0''-F-96) and Elisa Ercoli (6'3''-C-95) (8 rebs) netted 6 and 5 points respectively. On Tuesday, USA will play against Belgium. Italy will take on South Korea (1-2). It is important to mention that USA already booked a ticket for the Quarterfinals.

USA: Rebecca Greenwell 16+9 boards, Taya Reimer 12+5 boards, Diamond Deshields 11+7 as, Linnae Harper 11+6 boards, Brianna Turner 11
Italy: Sofia Marangoni 8, Cecilia Zandalasini 6, Elisa Ercoli 5+8 boards


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  JAPAN   


Japan keeps Turkey winless, books spot for the Quarterfinals of FIBA U17 World Championship - by Eurobasket News

U17 JAPAN - U17 TURKEY 83-75

Japan had another great game in Amsterdam and already booked a spot for the Quarterfinals of FIBA U17 World Championship. Japan downed Turkey in Day Three 83-75 staying on top of Group B together with Spain. Both teams have 3-0 record now and they will meet on Tuesday in crucial game for the first place in this pool. Turkey dropped to 0-3, but they still hope to reach the next stage. Turkey's next rival will be Australia and it could be the crucial game for both teams. Japan had amazing Q2 (27-14) for 48-35 lead at the halftime. Totally different picture was seen on the court after the breather and Turkey controlled rhythm of the game and created 28-13 in Q3. However, Japanese players shined when it mattered most and limited Turkey to 12 pts for the last ten minutes, while they scored 22 at the other side for 8-point win at the end. Yunika Nakamura (95) paced Japan with 20 points and 9 rebounds, while Ai Yamada (95) also had a great performance scoring 19 points. Natsumi Nagai (95) and Saori Miyazaki (95) had 13 and 12 pts respectively. In Turkey, Hulya Coklar (188-C-95) answered with 20 points, 13 rebounds and 5 assists. Sinem Atas (178-SF-95) also had 20 points (6 rebs, 5 as) and Melis Gulcan (180-SG-96) posted 12 pts. As mentioned above, the championship continues on Tuesday.

Japan: Yunika Nakamura 20+9 boards, Ai Yamada 19, Natsumi Nagai 13, Saori Miyazaki 12
Turkey: Hulya Coklar 20+13 boards+5 as, Sinem Atas 20+6 boards+5 as, Melis Gulcan 12


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  LITHUANIA   


Valuable win for U20 Poland against U20 Lithuania, 53-50 - by Eurobasket News

U20 LITHUANIA - U20 POLAND 50-53

Very valuable win for Poland at the start of the second stage at U20 EuroBasket in Debrecen. Poland was better than Lithuania jumping to 2-1 record in Group E and now shares the second place with Sweden. At the other side, Lithuania closes the standings in this pool with 0-3. Lithuania was up by 15 at the halftime and it seemed they will take this game easily, but than Poland exploded after the breather. They intensified defense limiting its rival to just 4 pts for the entire Q3, while they drained 22 at the other side. In very exciting Q4 Poland managed to take 52-46 lead with 27 seconds remaining in the game. Lithuania came to minus two few moments later, but Cossengue sealed the victory for Poland from the free throw line. Magdalena Zietara (170-G/F-92) paced Poland with 18 points and 5 rebounds. Ramona Casimiro (170-G-92) had 14 points and 9 rebs, and Martyna Stelmach (187-F/C-92) added 7 pts, plus 6 rebs. In Lithuania, Monika Grigalauskyte (190-PF-92) shined with 15 points and 9 rebs, while Laura Svaryte (190-C/F-92) had double-double of 13 points and 12 boards. Dovile Saurazaite (170-G-92) stopped to 11 pts in this defeat. Poland will play against Belarus today, while Lithuania's rival will be Holland.

Lithuania: Monika Grigalauskyte 15+9 boards, Laura Svaryte 13+12 boards, Dovile Saurazaite 11
Poland: Magdalena Zietara 18+5 boards, Ramona Casimiro 14+9 boards, Martyna Stelmach 7+6 boards


Kibirkstis-Tiche-IKI Vilnius inks experienced Rima Valentiene - by Eurobasket News (T)

Kibirkstis-Tiche-IKI Vilnius officially announced signing of Rima Valentiene (170-PG-78) to a 1-year deal. The player spent last two seasons with VICI Aistes Kaunas. In the latest one she had 5.3 ppg and 1.5 rpg in 14 Euroleague games. She also had 4.2 ppg, 2.3 rpg and 2 apg for 27 games in LMKL, plus 4 ppg and 1.9 rpg for 8 BWBL appearances. They won two Lithuanian league titles and two Cup trophies together. Before VICI Aistes Kaunas, Rima Valentiene spent one season with SK Cesis. In the past, she played for TEO Vilnius. Valentiene won five championship titles with the Vilnius team. The point guard played for the Lithuanian National Team from 2001 until the last summer. She had 6.9 ppg and 2.3 rpg for 9 games in Poland.
Recently, Vilnius Kibirkstis-Tiche-IKI penned a deal with American center Celeste Trahan (184-C-85, agency: LBM Management, college: Elizabeth City).


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  MALI   


U17 South Korea celebrates first win in Amsterdam - by Eurobasket News

U17 SOUTH KOREA - U17 MALI 76-61

Both teams had 0-2 before this meeting. South Korea was too strong for Mali 76-61 registering its first victory at FIBA U17 World Championship in Amsterdam. Korea now joined Canada with 1-2 record, while Mali closes the standings in this pool with 0-3. Korea had impressive first quarter making 29-16 lead and later jumped to plus 17 until the halftime. However, Mali drastically improved after the breather and closed the gap to 4 points with ten minutes to go in the game. Koreans shined when it mattered most ending the last period with 20-9 for the first win in Amsterdam. Park Jieun (95) (7 rebs) and Kim Heejin (95) scored 19 points each in this victory. Shin Jihyun (95) helped with 9 pts. In the loosing squad, Christine Dakouo (178-PF-96) was better than the others with 13 points and 9 rebounds. Mariam Maiga (169-G-96) and Maimouna Diallo (180-C-95) delivered 11 points. All teams will take a rest on Monday. In the next game, South Korea will meet Italy. Mali will play against Canada.

South Korea: Park Jieun 19+7 boards, Kim Heejin 19, Shin Jihyun 9
Mali: Christine Dakouo 13+9 boards, Mariam Maiga 11, Maimouna Diallo 11


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  NCAA1   


U17 USA hands first loss to U17 Italy, 83-43 - by Eurobasket News

U17 USA - U17 ITALY 83-43

USA cruised to another victory at FIBA U17 World Championship in Amsterdam. They smashed Italy 83-43 handing them the first loss at this event. It means that USA stays alone on top of Group A with perfect 3-0 record, while Italy dropped to 2-1 and now has the same score as Belgium. USA dominated from the start and after each minute their lead was bigger and bigger. Quarters: 25-13, 18-6, 24-9, 16-15. Rebecca Greenwell (6'0''-G-95) led USA with 16 points and 9 rebounds, and Taya Reimer (6'3''-F-95) helped with 12 points, plus 5 boards. Diamond Deshields (6'1''-G/F-95) (7 as), Linnae Harper (5'8''-G-95) (6 rebs) and Brianna Turner (6'3''-F-96) posted 11 points each. At the other side, Italy's best scorer was Sofia Marangoni (5'9''-PG-95) with only 8 points. Cecilia Zandalasini (6'0''-F-96) and Elisa Ercoli (6'3''-C-95) (8 rebs) netted 6 and 5 points respectively. On Tuesday, USA will play against Belgium. Italy will take on South Korea (1-2). It is important to mention that USA already booked a ticket for the Quarterfinals.

USA: Rebecca Greenwell 16+9 boards, Taya Reimer 12+5 boards, Diamond Deshields 11+7 as, Linnae Harper 11+6 boards, Brianna Turner 11
Italy: Sofia Marangoni 8, Cecilia Zandalasini 6, Elisa Ercoli 5+8 boards


Geno Auriemma: No interest in coaching at 2016 Olympics - by Eurobasket News

Connecticut coach Geno Auriemma said he has no interest in returning as head coach of the U.S. national team for the 2016 Rio Olympics.

Auriemma met with reporters at UConn, five days after coaching the U.S. team to a fifth straight Olympic gold medal.

He said he was honored to get the job and ecstatic with the results, but described his interest level in doing it again as "zero."

"If you ask me right now, today, I would say it is somebody else's turn," he said.

Mike Krzyzewski returned as coach of the men's team after the 2008 Games to lead them to another gold medal in London, but the USA has traditionally switched women's basketball coaches after each Olympics.

Tara VanDerveer, Nell Fortner, Van Chancellor and Anne Donovan each led teams to Olympic gold before Auriemma took the job as national coach in 2009.

USA Basketball spokeswoman Caroline Williams said it is too soon for the organization to begin thinking about the coach of the 2016 team.

"USA Basketball generally doesn't even begin the process until at least the winter after the Olympics," she said in an email. "We still have many competitions this year and the next major competition for our USA National Team isn't until 2014, so the coaching staff for the next squad hasn't even come up for discussion yet."

Auriemma said he believes it will be more difficult for the women to win in 2016. Other countries such as France and Turkey are making great strides with their programs, and some key players for the U.S. are aging, he said.

"Do you see any other Sue Birds and Diana Taurasi's and Tamika Catchings out there?" he said. "I don't. I think we're going to have to work harder than we've ever worked to stay where we are."

Auriemma, who has led UConn to seven national titles, said coaching the Olympics was the most pressure he has ever felt.

The U.S. team faced its first halftime deficit in the Olympics in 12 years before pulling away to beat Australia 86-73 in the semifinal game.

France stayed with the U.S. in the first 12 minutes of the final before Candace Parker scored 21 points, including eight straight in the second quarter, to help the U.S. win the gold, 86-50.

Auriemma said he would like to concentrate on coaching his Huskies, who he said could be very "special" over the next two seasons. UConn returns almost everyone from a 33-5 team that lost in the national semifinals and brings in another top-rated recruiting class.

As to whether he would ever consider returning to USA Basketball, Auriemma compared the experience to eating a bowl of his favorite mint-chocolate chip ice cream.

"The second bowl doesn't taste as good as the first one," he said. "It never has and it never will."

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com


Barclays to host women's A-10 Championship Game - by Eurobasket News

The championship game of the Atlantic-10 womens basketball tournament will be held at the Barclays Center starting in 2013.

The title game will be the first women's basketball game played at Barclays, which will be the home of the Brooklyn Nets and the Mens A-10 basketball tournament.

Barclays Center is proud to announce its first womens basketball game, said Sean Saadeh, Vice President of Programming for Barclays Center. Our venues inaugural season will offer a strong lineup of college basketball, culminating with the Atlantic 10 Conference Championships for both the men and women.

The top 12 teams in the conference will play for the A-10 championship and an automatic bid to the 2013 NCAA tournament. The championship game will be aired on ESPN on March 16.

The first three rounds of the tournament will be held at Saint Josephs University in Philadelphia from March 8-11.

Courtesy of www.nypost.com


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


Key duo back on board in Logan - by Eurobasket News (T)

BDS Logan Thunder Head Coach Jason Chainey will be relying on the leadership and experience of mainstays Natalie Taylor (182-F-84, college: SE Missouri St.) and Emma Langford (188-F-89, college: Wyoming) for the upcoming 2012/13 WNBL season after both inked one-year deals with the club.

Taylor, a New Zealand international and former Olympian, joins sisters Holly and Cassie Smith as the only three remaining players from the inaugural team, while Langford is one of five players from last years squad.

Faced with the challenge of coaching a new mix of players in his first year in the hot seat, Chainey said the duos experience at the club would be vital.

Nat has the ability to bring valuable leadership to the group, Chainey said of Taylor.

She is one of those people that essentially says to her team mates, Jump on my back and we are going to win this game.

Emma is everything that our program epitomises she has a great work ethic, has great ability, is a great team player and has a very calm demeanour.

By her standards she had a quiet year last year so I am confident she will step up this year.

We have got a number of new faces and while change is good, it is very challenging at the same time and I need all of the older girls to really help us get through this sort of adversity.

Taylor, 30, narrowly missed out on qualifying for the 2012 London Olympics after the Kiwis were defeated by Argentina in the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament.

But the Tall Ferns captain has moved on from the disappointment of missing out on what would have been her second consecutive Olympics campaign and has turned her attention to the upcoming WNBL season.

Ive been playing for the Ballarat Rush in SEABL since the WNBL finished last season as well as representative duties for New Zealand, so Ive had a very full on off-season, Taylor said.

There have been loads of personnel changes in all of the teams this season, not just ours, so that will be interesting and something to look forward to.

Getting to know and learning to play with the new girls is always both fun and challenging and Im sure well get through the challenges and enjoy the fun times.

Having been at the club since its inaugural year it is important to me to have some consistency where I am playing and the group Im with so Im glad to be back on the Logan roster.

23-year-old Langford, who came through the Australian Institute of Sport and boasts a stint with Adelaide Lightning and two years at Wyoming College, is looking to establish herself in her second season at the club after a fruitful off-season with the Ipswich Force.

Im excited to have another season with the girls who are returning from last season and to have Jason as head coach, she said.

Im hoping to build and improve on last season and I want to play a bigger part and make a greater contribution to the team.

Chainey remains on the hunt for a player to fill a reserve centre position behind lifeblood Holly Smith and is waiting to receive the official paperwork that will see a WNBA shooting guard join the side.

The Thunder will start their preseason training early next month.

Courtesy of WNBL Australia


Goldrush face uphill battle - by Eurobasket News

Otago Oceana Goldrush are back on home turf and will begin their Womens Basketball Championship defence against the team they supplanted previous titleholders Harbour Breeze.

After a lacklustre qualifying campaign, the Rush only scraped into the Championship group with victory over Nelson Sparks in their preliminary game last month.

Their task doesnt get any easier as they line up for the finals at their Edgar Centre headquarters next week. Theyve drawn predecessors Harbour and the 2012 WBCs top team so far Hutt Valley Flyers in their championship section.

On the other side of the draw, Nelson last years runners-up must get past Taranaki Trojans and upstarts Waitakere West Auckland Rangers.

Womens Basketball Championship
Edgar Centre, Dunedin

Championship Section A
Hutt Valley Flyers
Harbour Breeze
Otago Oceana Goldrush

Championship Section B
Waitakere West Auckland Rangers
Nelson Sparks
Taranaki Trojans

Plate
Waikato Wizards
Canterbury Wildcats
Rotorua Lady Volcanoes
Palmerston North Storm
Kelvin Hotel Southland Pearls

Thursday, August 23
8.30am
Harbour Breeze v Otago Oceana Goldrush
Nelson Sparks v Taranaki Trojans
10.30am
Waikato Wizards v Palmerston North Storm
Rotorua Lady Vols v Canterbury Wildcats
1.30pm
Hutt Valley Flyers v Harbour Breeze
Waitakere West Auckland Rangers v Taranaki Trojans
3.30pm
Kelvin Hotel Southland Pearls v Waikato Wizards
Canterbury Wildcats v Palmerston North Storm
6.30pm
Otago Oceana Goldrush v Hutt Valley Flyers
Waitakere West Auckland Rangers v Nelson Sparks
8.30pm
Rotorua Lady Vols v Kelvin Hotel Southland Pearls

Friday, August 24
9am
Waikato Wizards v Rotorua Lady Vols
Kelvin Hotel Southland Pearls v Palmerston North Storm
11am
2A v 3B (G1)
2B v 3A (G2)
2pm
Waikato Wizards v Canterbury Wildcats
Palmerston North Storm v Rotorua Lady Vols
5pm
1B v Winner G1 (G3)
7pm
1A v Winner G2 (G4)
Canterbury Wildcats v Kelvin Hotel Southland Pearls

Saturday, August 25
9am
Ninth/10th playoff Third plate v Fourth plate
11am
Third/fourth playoff Loser G3 v Loser G4
Fifth/sixth playoff Loser G1 v Loser G2
2pm
Seventh/eighth playoff First plate v Second plate (Plate Final)
4pm
Winner G3 v Winner G4 (Championship Final)
7.30pm
Prizegiving
Courtesy of: http://www.basketball.org.nz


Stockill a Colgate Raider - by Eurobasket News

Colgate University womens head basketball coach Nicci Hays Fort has announced that the Raiders will be adding three newcomers in Kiwi Josie Stockill, Randyll Butler and Paige Kriftcher as the class of 2016.

We are very excited about our 2012 recruiting class. The class as a whole will immediately increase our competitiveness in the Patriot League, said coach Hays Fort. All three have had a high level of personal success and team success throughout their high school and club careers. They display a tremendous work ethic and are excited to be Colgate Raiders.

Stockill is from New Zealand, while Butler is from Chicago, Illinois and Kriftcher Port Washington, New York.

Stockill is a 6-3 (1.9m) forward from Napier, New Zealand, where she was a 2011 graduate of Napier Girls High School. Stockill has spent the last five years as a member of New Zealand national teams and earned MVP honors at the 2009 National Under 17 Championships. Stockill then moved up to the under 19 national team in 2010 and played in the FIBA Oceania Championship, before travelling to Australia in 2011 to play in the state championships for the New Zealand under 20 team.

As a member of the Napier Girls High School team Stockill won the Susan Downes Cup for her commitment to basketball in 2008, 2009 and 2010 and was awarded a place on the all-Tournament team in the Secondary Schools AA National Championships.

Josie is a big time rebounder that has great ability to run the floor and be an offensive threat, said coach Hays Fort. She brings great international playing experience that should assist her in the transition to Patriot League play.

Butler is a 2012 graduate of Marist High School, where she served as team captain of the Redhawks for the past three seasons. The 5-8 guard helped lead Marist to back-to-back Regional Championships in 2011 and 2012, while also winning the Sectional Championship in 2012. Butler earned All-Conference honors in 2011, along with receiving All-Tournament honors in both 2011 and 2012. Through her time with the Redhawks Butler received numerous team awards including Most Improved, Best Defense, Leadership Award and MVP.

Randyll is a versatile guard that can play 1-3 positions. She displays great competitiveness on the defensive and rebounding ends of the floor, stated coach Hays Fort. Randyll has always been a team first player in doing whatever is needed for her team to have success and we are excited about her leadership skills.

Kriftcher is a 2012 graduate of Long Island Lutheran High School, where she earned New York State Class B First-Team honors during her junior and senior seasons. The 5-9 guard also received All-State recognition as a sophomore and finished her career as a member of the Crusaders 1,000-point club after averaging 14.0 points, 6.0 assists and 5.0 rebounds per game. Kriftcher was also a co-captain of the 2009 Under 18 USA National Team that won the Gold Medal in World Maccabiah Games in Israel.

Paige had a tremendous high school career. She has great passing ability to go along with her ability to make baskets in multiple ways, said coach Hays Fort. We believe that Paige will extend the defense with her outside shooting and decision making abilities.

As much as we are excited about their ability to play and compete at a high level, we are even more excited what all three of them will bring to the Colgate community and as future Raider alumni, stated coach Hays Fort. We believe that Josie, Randyll and Paige will assist us in increasing our competitive attitude and bring about new traditions for the Colgate womens basketball program.
Courtesy of: http://www.basketball.org.nz


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


Valuable win for U20 Poland against U20 Lithuania, 53-50 - by Eurobasket News

U20 LITHUANIA - U20 POLAND 50-53

Very valuable win for Poland at the start of the second stage at U20 EuroBasket in Debrecen. Poland was better than Lithuania jumping to 2-1 record in Group E and now shares the second place with Sweden. At the other side, Lithuania closes the standings in this pool with 0-3. Lithuania was up by 15 at the halftime and it seemed they will take this game easily, but than Poland exploded after the breather. They intensified defense limiting its rival to just 4 pts for the entire Q3, while they drained 22 at the other side. In very exciting Q4 Poland managed to take 52-46 lead with 27 seconds remaining in the game. Lithuania came to minus two few moments later, but Cossengue sealed the victory for Poland from the free throw line. Magdalena Zietara (170-G/F-92) paced Poland with 18 points and 5 rebounds. Ramona Casimiro (170-G-92) had 14 points and 9 rebs, and Martyna Stelmach (187-F/C-92) added 7 pts, plus 6 rebs. In Lithuania, Monika Grigalauskyte (190-PF-92) shined with 15 points and 9 rebs, while Laura Svaryte (190-C/F-92) had double-double of 13 points and 12 boards. Dovile Saurazaite (170-G-92) stopped to 11 pts in this defeat. Poland will play against Belarus today, while Lithuania's rival will be Holland.

Lithuania: Monika Grigalauskyte 15+9 boards, Laura Svaryte 13+12 boards, Dovile Saurazaite 11
Poland: Magdalena Zietara 18+5 boards, Ramona Casimiro 14+9 boards, Martyna Stelmach 7+6 boards


Energa Torun went on the training camp - by Lukasz Lukaszewski

Energa Torun is preparing for the upcoming season on the training camp in Zakopane. Team would have trained in Tatra mountains until August 30. Club is still looking for player who
can play on the court as the center.

Coach Elmedin Omanic have all signed players on the training camp. At the moment there are four players from USA in the team: Lauren Bell (172-G-90), Adrianne Ross (173-G-84, agency: Merit Sports, college: TCU), Nicole Michael (188-G-87, college: Syracuse) and Brittany Spears (185-F-88, college: Colorado). Two polish NT: Martyna Koc (186-C-83, agency: Promotex) and Weronika Idczak (177-G-89) are training on the camp in Zakopane . Also Emilia Tlumak (183-F-82), captain of the team is training with her teammates. Even Monika Krawiec (172-G-84) and Roze Ratajczak (183-G-91) who was suffered from injuries are ready to play. Club does not have typical center in the roster, but is still looking for appropriate player.



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


U20 Romania grabs 80-73 OT win against U20 Israel - by Eurobasket News

U20 ROMANIA - U20 ISRAEL 80-73 OT

Both teams had 1-2 record before this meeting. Romania grabbed 80-73 OT win against Israel joining Belgium at fifth place in U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. Israel dropped to seventh place with 1-3 score. Israel had 66-68 lead in the finish of regular time, but Cristina Bigica (182-G/F-92) than made a lay-up for Romania with only 2 seconds to go. Romania made crucial 7-1 run at the beginning of extra time and later managed to keep its lead for rest of the way. Bigica paced the winning squad with 22 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists. Sonia Ursu (175-SG-93) (9 rebs) and Alexandra Ionescu (175-PG-92) helped their team with 18 points each. In the loosing squad, Bar Gilinski (185-PF-92) shined with 25 points and 12 rebounds. Avigiel Cohen (182-G-92) and Thea Lemberger (175-G-92) posted 15 points each. Quarters: 16-23, 13-15, 22-17, 17-13, 12-5 OT. In the next game Romania will meet Hungary, while Israel will play against Switzerland.

Romania: Cristina Bigica 22+9 boards+6 as, Sonia Ursu 18+9 boards, Alexandra Ionescu 18
Israel: Bar Gilinski 25+12 boards, Avigiel Cohen 15, Thea Lemberger 15


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


Dynamo Moscow brings in NT guard Ilona Korstin - by Eurobasket News (T)

Dynamo Moscow added another new player for the upcoming season. The team penned a 1-year deal with Russian National Team guard Ilona Korstin (182-SG-80, agency: Josep and Nicolas). She split last season between Turkish Besiktas and Spanish Perfumerias. Korstin appeared 12 times with the former Euroleague and Spanish champ averaging 4.7 points and 3 rebounds in LFB. She also added 3.5 ppg and 1.5 spg for two Euroleague games. With Besiktas, the guard registered 7.4 ppg and 4.6 rpg in TKBL, plus 10.6 ppg and 6.5 rpg for 8 EuroCup games. Before Besiktas, Ilona Korstin spent two years with Spartak Vidnoe Moscow Region. In the past, she played for CSKA Moscow and Samara. Ilona Korstin is active member of the Russian National Team since 2001. She had 2 ppg and 1.6 rpg for 8 games at the Olympic Games in London.


Vologda Chevakata bring in Snytsina - by Eurobasket News (T)

Vologda Chevakata bring in Katerina Snytsina (188-F-85) for the next season. The Belarus International comes back to Russia. Last year she played for Horizont and averaged 13.5ppg, 5.0rpg, 1.8apg, 2.2spg, FGP: 47.9%, 3PT: 41.2%, FT: 77.8%.
In 2009-2010 she signed with Nadezhda Orenburg (Russia-A Superleague) and in EuroCup averaged 11.9ppg, 4.0rpg, 2.6apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 44.3%, 3PT: 30.8%, FT: 75.0%. In Russian League after 13 games her stats read 15.6ppg, 3.8rpg, 1.2apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 45.6%, 3PT: 50.0%, FT: 84.6%.
In 2010-2011 for Nadezhda Orenburg (Russia-PBL) her stats read 9.2ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 52.1%, 3PT: 29.7%, FT: 81.8%. The season 2011-2012 she also started for Nadezhda Orenburg (Russia-PBL), but now moved to Belarus.
At the European Championships in Poland -11 in 6 games v averaged 9.0ppg, 4.2rpg, FGP: 53.3%, 3PT: 20.8%, FT: 87.5%. Last year she also became Russian Cup Finalist -11. Earlier she became Eurobasket.com All-Russian Superleague Honorable Mention -10 and Eurobasket.com Russian Superleague All-Bosmans Team -10. In 2009 she became Polish PLKK Champion with Lotos.


*****************************************************
  SLOVAKIA   


U20 EuroBasket: Joyful start of the second stage for Slovakia - by Eurobasket News

U20 SLOVAKIA - U20 UKRAINE 72-63

Slovakia started the second stage of U20 EuroBasket with victory. They downed Ukraine 72-63 for 2-1 record in Group F. At the other side, Ukraine dropped to 1-2. There are six participants in this group and only four of them will advance to the Quarterfinals. Slovakia had 13-point lead with one quarter left in the game and they jumped to plus 18 with 3:44 remaining. Marta Palenikova (184-G/F-92) stepped up for the winners with 16 points and 6 rebounds. Barbora Balintova (176-G-94) scored 13 points and Martina Letkova (189-F-92) added two points less. In Ukraine, Alina Iagupova (186-G-92, agency: LBM Management) collected 33 points and 7 rebounds, but with pretty bad percentage for FG2 (2/10). She reached valuation 25. Oleksandra Chek (191-C-93, agency: New Trend Agency) had 14 points and 8 rebounds in this defeat. Slovakia will meet top-ranked Turkey today, while Ukraine will play against Russia.

Slovakia: Marta Palenikova 16+6 boards, Barbora Balintova 13, Martina Letkova 11
Ukraine: Alina Iagupova 33+7 boards, Oleksandra Chek 14+8 boards


*****************************************************
  SOUTH KOREA   


U17 South Korea celebrates first win in Amsterdam - by Eurobasket News

U17 SOUTH KOREA - U17 MALI 76-61

Both teams had 0-2 before this meeting. South Korea was too strong for Mali 76-61 registering its first victory at FIBA U17 World Championship in Amsterdam. Korea now joined Canada with 1-2 record, while Mali closes the standings in this pool with 0-3. Korea had impressive first quarter making 29-16 lead and later jumped to plus 17 until the halftime. However, Mali drastically improved after the breather and closed the gap to 4 points with ten minutes to go in the game. Koreans shined when it mattered most ending the last period with 20-9 for the first win in Amsterdam. Park Jieun (95) (7 rebs) and Kim Heejin (95) scored 19 points each in this victory. Shin Jihyun (95) helped with 9 pts. In the loosing squad, Christine Dakouo (178-PF-96) was better than the others with 13 points and 9 rebounds. Mariam Maiga (169-G-96) and Maimouna Diallo (180-C-95) delivered 11 points. All teams will take a rest on Monday. In the next game, South Korea will meet Italy. Mali will play against Canada.

South Korea: Park Jieun 19+7 boards, Kim Heejin 19, Shin Jihyun 9
Mali: Christine Dakouo 13+9 boards, Mariam Maiga 11, Maimouna Diallo 11


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


U20 Spain cruises past U20 Holland, extends winning streak in Debrecen - by Eurobasket News

U20 HOLLAND - U20 SPAIN 41-70

Spain had no mercy for Holland in the opening round of the second stage at U20 EuroBasket in Derbecen. It was 70-41 win for Spain, who now has 3-0 record in Group E. Spain already booked a ticket for the Quarterfinals at this event. They made 14-point lead until the halftime and jumped to plus 20 with one quarter left. Holland was not able to reply and actually Spain increased its lead to the final plus 29. Queralt Casas (180-G-92) and Marta Claret (185-C-92) netted 16 and 14 points respectively for the winners. Their third scorer was Elena Diaz (188-C-92) with 9 points. In the loosing squad, Marlou De Kleijn (182-F-92, agency: Regeneracom Sports) and Liesbeth Visser (169-PG-92) top-scored with just 7 points each. Holland dropped to 1-2 now sharing the fourth place with Belarus. Spain is alone on top of this pool. Today Spain will play against Sweden, while Holland will take on Lithuania.

Holland: Marlou De Kleijn 7, Liesbeth Visser 7
Spain: Queralt Casas 16, Marta Claret 14, Elena Diaz 9


U17 Spain books Quarterfinals ticket in Amsterdam - by Eurobasket News

U17 BRAZIL - U17 SPAIN 42-79

Spain cruised to third straight victory at FIBA U17 World Championship in Amsterdam. They smashed Brazil 79-42 for 3-0 record in Preliminary Group B. Thanks to this win Spain already booked a ticket for the Quarterfinals. At the other side, Brazil is in difficult situation now as they dropped to 0-3, but they still have a chance to advance. Spain was up by 6 at the halftime and totally took control on Brazil after that. Spain made huge 31-9 after the breather and Q4 was just the formality. Yaiza Rodriguez (163-PG-95) stepped up for the winners with 14 points, while Ariadna Pujol (182-F-95) collected 11 points, 6 assists and 5 rebs. Marina Lizarazu (175-G-95) also scored 11 pts in this game. Vitoria Domingos (96) top-scored in defeat with 9 points and Izabella Sangalli (181-F-95) had one less. Kananda Ribeiro posted 6 points for Brazil. Spain will play against Japan on Tuesday and it will be a game for the first place in Group B. Brazil will meet host Holland in very important game and only win can keep Brazil's Quarterfinals hopes alive.

Brazil: Vitoria Domingos 9, Izabella Sangalli 8
Spain: Yaiza Rodriguez 14, Ariadna Pujol 11+6 as+5 boards, Marina Lizarazu 11


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


U20 Sweden downs U20 Belarus 76-65 in Debrecen - by Eurobasket News

U20 SWEDEN - U20 BELARUS 76-65

Sweden outplayed Belarus 76-65 to start the second stage at U20 EuroBasket in Debrecen. Both teams had 1-1 record in Group E before this meeting. Now, Sweden shares the second place with Poland, while Belarus has the same score as 4th ranked Holland. Farhiya Abdi (188-F-92) (9 rebs) and Ellen Nystrom (180-G-93) led the winners with 15 points each, while Binta Drammeh (180-F-92) followed them with 14 pts and 7 rebs. In defeat, Maryia Filonchyk (187-PF-92) was better than the others with double-double of 21 points and 10 rebs, and Maryia Papova (186-PF-94) netted 16 points (5 rebs). Maryna Ivashchanka (190-C-93) stopped to 12 points and 6 boards. Sweden had double digit lead with ten minutes remaining in the game and it was too much for Belarus. Quarters: 23-18, 22-22, 18-11, 13-14. Sweden will play against Spain today and the winner will secure a ticket for the Quarterfinals. Belarus will meet Poland, also in very important game.

Sweden: Farhiya Abdi 15+9 boards, Ellen Nystrom 15, Binta Drammeh 14+7 boards
Belarus: Maryia Filonchyk 21+10 boards, Maryia Papova 16+5 boards, Maryna Ivashchanka 12+6 boards


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


U20 Belgium takes second win in Klatovy - by Eurobasket News

U20 SWITZERLAND - U20 BELGIUM 59-64

Belgium celebrated 64-59 win over Switzerland in Day Four of U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. Thanks to this win Belgium jumped to 2-2 record at this event, while at the other side Switzerland dropped to 0-3. Belgium had impressive start today making 28-11 lead. Switzerland replied with 16-6 in the second quarter and 14-10 in Q3. Switzerland continued in the same rhythm and grabbed 2-point lead at the halfway of the last period. However, Belgium created 14-7 run after that and jumped to 59-54 lead with 42 seconds to go. It was too much for Switzerland. Emmanuella Mayombo (170-SG-92, agency: LBM Management) led Belgium with 17 points and Liza Biebuyck (173-G/F-93) followed her with 12 pts. Evi Hayse (181-C/F-93) helped with 8 points and 6 rebounds. In defeat, Rosalie Grobet (185-F/C-92) was better than the others with 19 points and 10 rebounds, and Sarah Cavin (178-SF-92) was their second scorer with 13 points. On Tuesday, Belgium will meet Germany. Switzerland will play against Israel.

Switzerland: Rosalie Grobet 19+10 boards, Sarah Cavin 13
Belgium: Emmanuella Mayombo 17, Liza Biebuyck 12, Evi Hayse 8+6 boards


Olten-Zofingen add Joelle Keller - by Eurobasket News (T)

Olten-Zofingen deepened their roster. They engaged Joelle Keller. The guard spent the last season with Luzern. Joelle Keller notched 2.2 points per game in LNB.


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


Japan keeps Turkey winless, books spot for the Quarterfinals of FIBA U17 World Championship - by Eurobasket News

U17 JAPAN - U17 TURKEY 83-75

Japan had another great game in Amsterdam and already booked a spot for the Quarterfinals of FIBA U17 World Championship. Japan downed Turkey in Day Three 83-75 staying on top of Group B together with Spain. Both teams have 3-0 record now and they will meet on Tuesday in crucial game for the first place in this pool. Turkey dropped to 0-3, but they still hope to reach the next stage. Turkey's next rival will be Australia and it could be the crucial game for both teams. Japan had amazing Q2 (27-14) for 48-35 lead at the halftime. Totally different picture was seen on the court after the breather and Turkey controlled rhythm of the game and created 28-13 in Q3. However, Japanese players shined when it mattered most and limited Turkey to 12 pts for the last ten minutes, while they scored 22 at the other side for 8-point win at the end. Yunika Nakamura (95) paced Japan with 20 points and 9 rebounds, while Ai Yamada (95) also had a great performance scoring 19 points. Natsumi Nagai (95) and Saori Miyazaki (95) had 13 and 12 pts respectively. In Turkey, Hulya Coklar (188-C-95) answered with 20 points, 13 rebounds and 5 assists. Sinem Atas (178-SF-95) also had 20 points (6 rebs, 5 as) and Melis Gulcan (180-SG-96) posted 12 pts. As mentioned above, the championship continues on Tuesday.

Japan: Yunika Nakamura 20+9 boards, Ai Yamada 19, Natsumi Nagai 13, Saori Miyazaki 12
Turkey: Hulya Coklar 20+13 boards+5 as, Sinem Atas 20+6 boards+5 as, Melis Gulcan 12


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


U20 EuroBasket: Joyful start of the second stage for Slovakia - by Eurobasket News

U20 SLOVAKIA - U20 UKRAINE 72-63

Slovakia started the second stage of U20 EuroBasket with victory. They downed Ukraine 72-63 for 2-1 record in Group F. At the other side, Ukraine dropped to 1-2. There are six participants in this group and only four of them will advance to the Quarterfinals. Slovakia had 13-point lead with one quarter left in the game and they jumped to plus 18 with 3:44 remaining. Marta Palenikova (184-G/F-92) stepped up for the winners with 16 points and 6 rebounds. Barbora Balintova (176-G-94) scored 13 points and Martina Letkova (189-F-92) added two points less. In Ukraine, Alina Iagupova (186-G-92, agency: LBM Management) collected 33 points and 7 rebounds, but with pretty bad percentage for FG2 (2/10). She reached valuation 25. Oleksandra Chek (191-C-93, agency: New Trend Agency) had 14 points and 8 rebounds in this defeat. Slovakia will meet top-ranked Turkey today, while Ukraine will play against Russia.

Slovakia: Marta Palenikova 16+6 boards, Barbora Balintova 13, Martina Letkova 11
Ukraine: Alina Iagupova 33+7 boards, Oleksandra Chek 14+8 boards


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


UWIC coach Jennings prepares for move to Canada - by Eurobasket News

As he prepares to move to Canada to become head coach of the University of Calgary, UWIC Archers coach Damien Jennings admits it will be tough to say goodbye to British basketball.

It is sad to say goodbye to UWIC Archers and Great Britain, admitted Damien Jennings , but two years ago I decided I wanted to coach full-time so have been reviewing several overseas options as there simply arent many full-time coaching jobs in basketball in the UK that can match the situation I was in.

I really wanted to finish the cycle with the GB squad group we had recruited at UWIC given their commitment to our Archers Academy and perhaps we all just felt 2011-12 was the most important year of preparation so I turned down previous calls to leave for full-time coaching until the role at the University of Calgary fortuitously went to interview after the season had finished.

Damien Jennings leaves the Cardiff university with a record of success behind him: The Archers programme has made gigantic steps since 2006 from our days mid-table in EBL Division Two to winning over 35 medals/trophies in the EBL and BUCS combined.

Making five successive BUCS finals with three back-to-back championships along route, accumulating a 46-game unbeaten run, whilst achieving the EBL One Playoff title within three seasons of being promoted makes me incredibly proud of all the efforts of those that supported our ambition.

Over six years we have not just become an apprenticeship hub for GB talent but have helped nurture over 30 international basketball players representing six different countries!

As for the EBLs contribution to the future it is about establishing an appropriate, sustainable funding structure; development focused clubs and an investment in the improvement of coaching so that the EBL and the UK can be a genuine alternative to the USA system for our most talented players and a genuine vocation-based option for our aspiring coaches - I would like to think for at least six years we tried to achieve these ambitions in our business model at the Archers but unfortunately a sustainable funding stream became the glass ceiling.

GB womens assistant Damien Jennings believes that the future of team is in safe hands. Britain failed to get a win in their five games at the Olympics, but produced some excellent performances that drew praise throughout the sport, and went agonisingly close to beating silver medallists France.

The Olympics was obviously an excellent experience said Damien Jennings . To be more specific the whole preparation phase, given that we were together since May 6th was an invaluable experience and journey.

The future for Team GB and British basketball looks bright with Temi [Fagbenle] making the step-up to senior level from the Under 20s we took into Division A last summer and three of the Futures players making the final Olympic 12 - with Azania Stewart and Jo Leedham also eligible last year for the World University Games side we took to China - so again it just highlights that the youthful age, yet experience, of at least half of the Olympic 12 displays a future with prospects.

Damien Jennings guided the GB Under 20 team to promotion in 2010, and they exceeded all expectations last summer with an eighth place finish in their Division A debut. Damien Jennings also coached the World Student Games team in China with some encouraging results.
Courtesy of: http://www.englandbasketball.co.uk


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  WNBA   


Maccabi Ashdod adds F Danielle Adams - by Eurobasket News (T)

Maccabi Ashdod announced another signing for the upcoming season. The reigning Israeli champion inked a deal with American forward Danielle Adams (185-F/C-89, college: Texas A&M). She is currently a member of the WNBA team San Antonio Silver Stars. Adams averages 11.4 points and 4.7 rebounds this season after 20 games. In 2011, the player had 12.2 ppg and 4.2 rpg for 26 games with San Antonio. It was her first season as a pro. Danielle Adams played for Italian Pallacanestro Pozzuoli in 2011/12. There she collected 15.7 ppg and 6.2 rpg for 10 games. The player was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Italian A1 Honorable Mention Team -12. Danielle Adams graduated at Texas A&M University something more than a year ago. She transferred to Texas A&M in 2009 from Jefferson CC (JUCO).


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  WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS U17   


Day 3 in Amsterdam: USA, Spain and Japan book Quarterfinals tickets - by Eurobasket News

Group A
USA - Italy 83-43
USA cruised to another victory at FIBA U17 World Championship in Amsterdam. They smashed Italy 83-43 handing them the first loss at this event. It means that USA stays alone on top of Group A with perfect 3-0 record, while Italy dropped to 2-1 and now has the same score as Belgium. USA dominated from the start and after each minute their lead was bigger and bigger. Quarters: 25-13, 18-6, 24-9, 16-15. Rebecca Greenwell (6'0''-G-95) led USA with 16 points and 9 rebounds, and Taya Reimer (6'3''-F-95) helped with 12 points, plus 5 boards. Diamond Deshields (6'1''-G/F-95) (7 as), Linnae Harper (5'8''-G-95) (6 rebs) and Brianna Turner (6'3''-F-96) posted 11 points each. At the other side, Italy's best scorer was Sofia Marangoni (5'9''-PG-95) with only 8 points. Cecilia Zandalasini (6'0''-F-96) and Elisa Ercoli (6'3''-C-95) (8 rebs) netted 6 and 5 points respectively. On Tuesday, USA will play against Belgium. Italy will take on South Korea (1-2). It is important to mention that USA already booked a ticket for the Quarterfinals.

South Korea - Mali 76-61
Both teams had 0-2 before this meeting. South Korea was too strong for Mali 76-61 registering its first victory at FIBA U17 World Championship in Amsterdam. Korea now joined Canada with 1-2 record, while Mali closes the standings in this pool with 0-3. Korea had impressive first quarter making 29-16 lead and later jumped to plus 17 until the halftime. However, Mali drastically improved after the breather and closed the gap to 4 points with ten minutes to go in the game. Koreans shined when it mattered most ending the last period with 20-9 for the first win in Amsterdam. Park Jieun (95) (7 rebs) and Kim Heejin (95) scored 19 points each in this victory. Shin Jihyun (95) helped with 9 pts. In the loosing squad, Christine Dakouo (178-PF-96) was better than the others with 13 points and 9 rebounds. Mariam Maiga (169-G-96) and Maimouna Diallo (180-C-95) delivered 11 points. All teams will take a rest on Monday. In the next game, South Korea will meet Italy. Mali will play against Canada.

Canada - Belgium 50-45
Canada grabbed 50-45 win over Belgium in Day Three of FIBA U17 World Championship. This is the first win for Canada in Amsterdam and it allowed them to join South Korea at fourth place in Group A with 1-2 record. At the other side, Canada faced with its first loss and slipped to 2-1 in this pool sharing the second place with Italy. Canada was up by 9 with one quarter left in the game. Belgium seriously threatened for rest of the way, but Canada managed to keep its lead and to celebrate first win in Amsterdam. Quarters: 15-14, 8-6, 11-5, 16-20. Emma Wolfram (193-C-95) paced Canada with 12 points and 7 rebounds. Their second scorer was Kia Nurse (180-PG-96) with 9 pts, while Saicha Grant-Allen (193-F-95) added 6 points and 9 rebs to this win. Belgium didn't have anyone with double digits in scoring. Hind Ben Abdelkader (173-SG-95), Anneleen De Baets (166-G-95) and Julie Allemand (173-PG-96) were their best players with 9 points each. All teams will take a rest on Monday. In the next game (Tuesday), Canada will play against Mali and another win is expected. Belgium will meet powerful USA and it is hard a believe they will be able to avoid defeat in this meeting.

Group B
Australia - Holland 62-70
Holland downed Australia in Day Three of FIBA U17 World Championship in Amsterdam. The host of this event celebrated 70-62 victory staying alone on third place of Group B. Australia dropped to position No.4 with 1-2. Laura Cornelius (174-PG-96) was unstoppable in this game collecting 28 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists. She reached valuation 30. Isabella Slim (181-F-95) scored 17 points and Lisanne de Jonge (181-F-95) added 10 pts, plus 8 rebs. Australia got 23 points and 5 rebs from Vanessa Panousis (170-PG-95), and Lauren Scherf (194-C-96) added 11 pts, plus 9 boards. They didn't have any other player with double digits in scoring. Quarters: 27-7, 12-20, 16-19, 15-16. Holland will play against winless Brazil on Tuesday and they hope to get another victory. Australia will play against also winless Turkey and it could be the crucial game for both teams.

Japan - Turkey 83-75
Japan had another great game in Amsterdam and already booked a spot for the Quarterfinals of FIBA U17 World Championship. Japan downed Turkey in Day Three 83-75 staying on top of Group B together with Spain. Both teams have 3-0 record now and they will meet on Tuesday in crucial game for the first place in this pool. Turkey dropped to 0-3, but they still hope to reach the next stage. Turkey's next rival will be Australia and it could be the crucial game for both teams. Japan had amazing Q2 (27-14) for 48-35 lead at the halftime. Totally different picture was seen on the court after the breather and Turkey controlled rhythm of the game and created 28-13 in Q3. However, Japanese players shined when it mattered most and limited Turkey to 12 pts for the last ten minutes, while they scored 22 at the other side for 8-point win at the end. Yunika Nakamura (95) paced Japan with 20 points and 9 rebounds, while Ai Yamada (95) also had a great performance scoring 19 points. Natsumi Nagai (95) and Saori Miyazaki (95) had 13 and 12 pts respectively. In Turkey, Hulya Coklar (188-C-95) answered with 20 points, 13 rebounds and 5 assists. Sinem Atas (178-SF-95) also had 20 points (6 rebs, 5 as) and Melis Gulcan (180-SG-96) posted 12 pts. As mentioned above, the championship continues on Tuesday.

Brazil - Spain 42-79
Spain cruised to third straight victory at FIBA U17 World Championship in Amsterdam. They smashed Brazil 79-42 for 3-0 record in Preliminary Group B. Thanks to this win Spain already booked a ticket for the Quarterfinals. At the other side, Brazil is in difficult situation now as they dropped to 0-3, but they still have a chance to advance. Spain was up by 6 at the halftime and totally took control on Brazil after that. Spain made huge 31-9 after the breather and Q4 was just the formality. Yaiza Rodriguez (163-PG-95) (163-PG-95) stepped up for the winners with 14 points, while Ariadna Pujol (182-F-95) collected 11 points, 6 assists and 5 rebs. Marina Lizarazu (175-G-95) also scored 11 pts in this game. Vitoria Domingos (96) top-scored in defeat with 9 points and Izabella Sangalli (181-F-95) had one less. Kananda Ribeiro posted 6 points for Brazil. Spain will play against Japan on Tuesday and it will be a game for the first place in Group B. Brazil will meet host Holland in very important game and only win can keep Brazil's Quarterfinals hopes alive.