EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 8/26/2012 1:04:01 AM

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  ARGENTINA   


Standings - LigaA

LigaA Standings
North
 1. Atenas 0-0 
 2. La Union 0-0 
 3. Libertad S. 0-0 
 4. Olimpico LB 0-0 
 5. Quimsa 0-0 
 6. Regatas C. 0-0 
 7. Sionista 0-0 
 8. Union Progr. 0-0 
South
 1. Argentino 0-0 
 2. Boca Jrs 0-0 
 3. Club 9 0-0 
 4. GECR Indalo 0-0 
 5. Lanus 0-0 
 6. Obras 0-0 
 7. Penarol 0-0 
 8. Wuber-Est.Bahia 0-0 

Regular Season: Round 1

North

Sep. 14: Union Progr. - Regatas C.
Sep. 14: Quimsa - Boca Jrs
Sep. 14: La Union - Sionista
Sep. 14: Libertad S. - Olimpico LB

South

Sep. 14: Penarol - Boca Jrs
Sep. 14: Club 9 - GECR Indalo
Sep. 14: Wuber-Est.Bahia - Obras
Sep. 14: Argentino - Lanus


Liga A rosters 2012/13: part 2 - by Facundo Iatzky

Sionista:
Luis Cequeira (180-PG-85); Alejandro Zilli (200-PF-82); Matias Sandes (201-F/G-84); Luciano Gonzalez (196-F-90); Daniel Hure (200-F-85); Eduardo Spalla (197-F-89), Nicolas Agasse (185-PG-92), Joshua Pittman (197-F-76, college: NC-Asheville), Jerome Meyinsse (206-F/C-88, college: Virginia), Darrell Wonge (201-F-86, college: Winston Salem), Jeremias Sandrini, Lucas Goldenberg, Guillermo Denning, Joel Mas
Youth team: Martin Gomez (F), Alejo Cardoso (G), Santiago Egas (G-96).

Gimnasia comodoro:
Diego Ciorciari (184-PG-80), Santiago Scala (187-G-91), David Jackson (196-G-82, college: Penn St.), Mariano Byro (195-G-82), Jason Robinson (196-F-80, college: Pikeville), Diego Romero (208-C-82, college: Florida St.), Fabricio Vay (206-F-86), Kahiem Seawright (203-C/F-86, agency: Edge Sports, college: Rhode Island), Alejandro Reinick (203-C-78), Exequiel Cassinelli (196-F-92), Gabriel Hermosillas (193-F-93), Enzo Amado (180-PG-95), Gabriel Gomez (180-F-94)

Quimsa:
Nicolas Aguirre (188-G-88), Juan Pablo Cantero (184-PG-82), Eduardo Villares (188-G-79), Cheyne Gadson (192-G-80, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Oklahoma St.), Sebastian Vega (200-F-88), Ramzee Stanton (197-F-80, agency: Dream Team Management, college: W.Chester), Diego Lo Grippo (198-F-78), Damian Tintorelli (204-C-81, agency: Players Group), James Williams (204-F/C-79, agency: Dream Team Management, college: Brown Mackie), Gabriel Deck (202-C/F-95)
Jeremias Ledesma, Martin Sauto, Emiliano Cancina, Alfonso Arce

9 de julio:
Diego Gerbaudo (180-PG-89), Gaston Torre (184-G-85), Enzo Ruiz (193-F-88, agency: Dream Team Management), Martin Melo (197-F-82), Josimar Ayarza (205-F-87, college: S.Mississippi), Mariano Garcia (201-F-86), Diego Brezzo (206-F/C-84), Edward Nelson (203-F-82, agency: Dream Team Management, college: Connecticut), Jazwin Cowan (204-F/C-83, agency: Dream Team Management, college: Hampton), Lucio Reinaudi (185-PG-95)
Santiago Linares, Juan Prono, Julian Gatti, Maximiliano Ramonda.


Argentino bring in Kavon Lytch - by Eurobasket News

Argentino bolstered their frontcourt. They agreed on terms of contract with another import player. His name is Kavon Lytch (199-F-87, college: Oklahoma City). The forward was last seen in Colombia. He played for Patriotas de Boyaca in Copa Federation. In 2011 Kavon Lytch also had a stint with the Halifax Rainmen. The forward averaged 14.5 points, 7.4 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 1.3 steals per game in PBL. He led his team to the PBL semifinals. Kavon Lytch graduated from the Oklahoma City University in 2010. The forward notched 14.5 points, 8.5 rebounds, 2.0 assists and 1.0 steal for the Stars in his senior season.


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  ASIAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U18   


China and South Korea set up exciting Final - by Eurobasket News

Semifinals
Japan - China 80-103
China became the first U18 Asia Championship finalists. They defeated Japan in the first semifinal of the day in Ulaanbaatar. Dai Huaibo (205-C/F-94) delivered 23 points to lead the reigning champions. China jumped to an early lead however Japan did not allow their opponents to clear off. Japan trailed by just one point after ten minutes 23:24. China managed to pull away late in the first half. They went on a 14:2 run to ensure a 16-point lead at halftime. China maintained the lead throughout the third term. They secured a 71:54 advantage at the final intermission. China kept Japan at distance throughout the fourth term and rallied to the victory at the end. Wang Zhelin (215-C/F-94) provided 21 points and 10 rebounds, while Li Jinglong (195-F-95) added 15 points for the winning side. Masahiro Narita (185-SF-94) answered with 17 points for Japan. Yuta Osaka had 14 points in the loss.

South Korea - Iran 96-93
South Korea prevailed against Iran in the semifinal thriller tonight to enter the title game at U18 Asia Championship. The Korean team will take on China in the remake of 2010 Final. Choi Jun-Yong (200-F-94) exploded with 38 points to lead the winners. Iran strongly entered the game. They grabbed control and rallied to a 25:15 lead after ten minutes. South Korea picked up the tempo in the second frame. They fired 27 points to narrow the deficit at 6-point mark at halftime 48:42. South Korea stayed red hot in the third quarter. They knocked down 26 points to trim the deficit to 3-point mark at the final break. Iran were up by five points with just over three minutes remaining. However South Korea scored six points in a row to take an 86:85 lead. Rahmati returned the lead for Iran however Kang and Heo made it 94:91 for South Korea. Heo then dropped a jumper and sealed the victory for South Korea. Gibeom Cheon (187-G-94) accounted for 13 points and 12 rebounds, while Jonghyun Lee added 14 points and 11 rebounds in the victory. Vahid Dalirzahan (199-SF-95) answered with 20 points and 8 rebounds for Iran. Behnam Yakhchali netted 19 points in the loss.
5-8 Place
Taiwan - Saudi Arabia 77-38
Taiwan destroy Saudi Arabia at the Classification Round for 5-8 places at the 22nd Asia U18 Championship. They had an easy 77:38 win and will play tomorrow for the 5th place. Saudi Arabia meanwhile will find out later the opponent for the 7th place. Taiwan won the first period 14:10 , but Saudi Arabia stayed tough and replied with 13-12 in the second period. The second half however fully belonged to the winning side. Taiwan won the third period 28-7 and finished with 23-8 in the last stanza. Fang Shih-En (199-C-94) top-scored for the winners with 17 points and 13 rebounds, while Chin Ming-Ching (194-F-94) posted 10. Lee Chia-Jui notched 9 and Lin Kuan-Chun delivered 8. Nassir Abojalas (195-F-94) answered with 17 points and 10 rebounds in defeat, while Ahmedkhalil Mahmoud, Sufyani Khalid and Mohammed Safwan had 5 each.

Philippines - Lebanon 80-69
Philippines will play for the 5th overall place at U18 Asia Championship. They overcame Lebanon in the classification round game tonight. Philippines will face Taiwan in the final game at the tournament. Lebanon will take on Saudi Arabia for the 7th position. Philippines and Lebanon entered the game aggressively. They traded baskets throughout intense first quarter as Philippines eked out a 22:21 lead. They maintained it throughout the second quarter. Olsen Rasela team gained a 41:38 halftime advantage. Philippines stressed their defence in the third quarter. They held Lebanon to 12 points in the period opening a double-digit lead. Philippines headed into the fourth frame up by 11 points 51:40. The Lebanese team were able to narrow the deficit at 7-point mark but could not get closer and had to surrender at the end. Gideon Babilonia (198-C-95) delivered 18 points and 8 rebounds for Philippines. Mario Bonleon (183-F-94) added 17 points, while Rodolfo Alejandro and Rashleigh-Paolo Rivero added 11 points apiece in the victory. Jimmy Salem (190-G-95) answered with 18 points for Lebanon. Gerard Hadidian tallied 15 points and 9 rebounds in the loss.
9-10 Place
Syria - India 86-76
Syria clinches 9th place in Ulaanbaatar at the 22nd FIBA Asia U18 Championship. The team overcame India 86:76 as both teams finished the campaign. Syria grabbed 20:17 after the first 10 minutes and added massive 22-12 in the second frame. India was too far to give up and replied with 30-27 in the third period as Palpreet Singh Brar (204-C-94) reduced to 69:59. India managed also to reduce to 8 points, but Okba Baghajati (182-G-94) brought 84:68. SAMINATHAN closed the game from the perimeter for the final result in the campaign. Mahmmoud Trub (195-F-94) and Okba Baghajati combined for 50 points for the winners. Ali Obesi (188-F-94) nailed 13, while Shahin Mouhammad scored 7. Palpreet Singh Brar finished the game with 27 points in defeat, whilst Singh Rakesh had 17 points and 15 rebounds. Kanarjee Amit scored 16 points and Satyawan Narender collected 9 points, 8 assists and 7 rebounds.
11-12 Place
Bahrain - Indonesia 64-67
Indonesia beat Bahrain to finish on the 11th place at the 22nd FIBA Asia U18 Championship. The team needed 67:64 win to clinch the higher place than the opponents. Bahrain started with 14-11 lead, but Indonesia replied with the same result in the second quarter as Kosasih Vicent tied the score at 25:25. Indonesia won the third period 22-21 and led 1 point after three quarters. Sitorus tied the game at 53:53, while Juan Kokodiputra (193-C/F-95) brought 62:55 midway through the fourth period. Naser Mahamed reduced to 66:63 and Shukralla Ali Hassan cut it to 2 points from the free throw line. Juan Kokodiputra meanwhile score also one free throw for the winning team to bring the final result in the game. Kevin Argadiba (195-C-94) paced all the winners with 14 points and Juan Kokodiputra scored 13. Kosasih Vicent and Tuasela Yerikho followed them with 10 points apiece. Mohammed Buallay (185-F-95) replied with 15 points in the losing effort, whilst Shukralla Ali Hassan collected 14 points and 15 rebounds. Naser Mahamed delivered 11 and Abul Jasim had 10.


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  AUSTRALIA   


SBL: Eagles close in on upset (Men's Semi-Final wrap) - by Eurobasket News

East Perth Eagles are one step closer to their first ever grand final appearance after taking down defending champions Wanneroo Wolves 82-77 in game one of the best-of-three semi-final series.

The Eagles led throughout the first two quarters and had a ten point lead at half time, however the Wolves rallied in the second half and cut the lead to just two points late in the fourth.

East Perth held steady without experienced guard Joe-Alan Tupaea (190-G-81) who fouled out halfway through the fourth and pulled away to win the crucial first match by five points.

Tom Jervis was in superb form for the Eagles finishing with 34 points and 21 rebounds, while veteran Joe-Alan Tupaea had 16 points and five assists.

Jordan Wild was the Wolves best with 23 points and 11 rebounds, in support Damian Matacz (205-C-79, college: N.Michigan) finished with 16 points and 12 rebounds and youngster Jackson Hussey had 16 points.

Wanneroo will need their home court advantage in games two and three this weekend if they are to progress to their second straight grand final.

In the other semi-final Cockburn Cougars survived a late charge from Lakeside Lightning to win 98-91 in front of their home crowd on Saturday night.

The Cougars led by 16 points at the last break, however the Lightning came home hard and got to within two points of the lead late in the fourth, however the Cougars held on strong.

Brian Carlwell was a strong inside presence for the Cougars with 23 points and 22 rebounds, while fellow import Jeremiah Wilson (203-F-87, college: Tarleton St.) finished with 26 points and 12 rebounds.

The home side also had solid support from Sheldon McIntyre who finished with 15 points, ten rebounds and five assists in his 150th game.

Lakeside were led by star imports Ben Beran (200-C-85, college: S.Dakota St.) (27 points, five rebounds) and Luke Payne (23 points, eight rebounds), while Christopher Sofoulis chipped in with 18 points and five rebounds.

The Lightning will be hoping their home court advantage in games two and three will see them return to form offensively after shooting just 37% from the field and 33% from the three point line against Cockburn.

Both series will play game two on Friday night at Joondalup and Lakeside respectively and game three, if necessary, will be played at the same venues on Saturday night.

The Kickz101 Mens State Basketball League Grand Final is on Saturday 1 September at the WA Basketball Centre, tickets are on sale now through Ticketmaster.

Courtesy of: http://www.sbl.asn.au/


SBL: Top two teams look to fight back - by Eurobasket News

Wanneroo and Lakeside, the two top teams at the end of the regular season, will look to recover from game one losses when their best-of-three semi-final series wrap up on the weekend.

The games are returning to the home courts of minor premiers Wanneroo Wolves and the second placed Lakeside Lightning after the round one games at the home stadiums of the lower ranked teams.

The Wolves take on the Eagles on Friday night at the Joondalup Basketball Stadium, the Eagles won game one 82-77 last weekend and will be determined to make club history with their first grand final appearance.

Wanneroo just couldnt contain Eagles big man Tom Jervis last week who managed a massive 34 points and 21 rebounds, while the Wolves will be looking for key players Jordan Wild and Damian Matacz to step up.

If the Wolves win then the teams will head into a tie breaker on Saturday night at the Wolves home stadium to determine who will make it to the grand final on Saturday 1 September at the WA Basketball Centre.

The Lightning also find themselves down 1-0 after suffering a 98-91 defeat against the Cougars last weekend, theyll enjoy home court advantage for game two on Friday and three, if necessary, on Saturday.

Lakeside will need to contain Cougars stars Jeremiah Wilson (203-F-87, college: Tarleton St.) (26 points, 12 rebounds) and Brian Carlwell (211-C-87, college: San Diego St.) (23 points, 22 rebounds) and their support cast if they are too pull off two victories and progress to the grand final.

Cockburn shot an impressive 43% from the floor and an incredible 52% from three point land last weekend and will need to shoot at a similar clip this weekend if they are to win the series.

The Lightning on the other hand will look to get off to a better start after finding themselves down by 15 points at halftime last weekend.
Courtesy of: http://www.sbl.asn.au/


Hawks defeat Kings in pre-season game - by Hugh McAuliffe

In front of a sellout crowd at Terrigal on the New South Wales Central Coast, the Wollongong Hawks won their third straight game in the 2012/13 preseason with a hard-fought 74-67 win over the Sydney Kings on Friday night.

Sydney were playing their first game of the preseason after a tough week in training camp, and with six new players in the line-up, it was inevitable that the teams offensive structure would be an issue at times against a club whose players have been together for a long time and have well-established systems.

Importantly, the purple and gold played with great effort for most of the night, and while there were some defensive breakdowns it wasnt through lack of intensity or an unwillingness to compete in the end, they were undone primarily by the Hawks tremendous outside shooting, as they nailed 11 of 17 from long distance, led by Oscar Forman, who hit five triples as part of his 21 point haul and taught new Kings import Darnell Lazare a lesson about the quality of player in the National Basketball League.

However, as good as Forman was, Lazare was equally outstanding at the offensive end of the floor for Sydney, often providing the only legitimate scoring option for Coach Shane Heal. He showed outstanding touch from the outside and knocked down a number of perimeter jumpers to lead all scorers with 22 points and eight rebounds.

He was ably supported by Ben Madgen, who displayed his extreme importance to this ballclub this season with an impressive, typically aggressive performance as he hit seven of 13 from the field for 18 points for a Kings team that shot 44% from the field, made 11 of 15 from the foul line and outrebounded the Hawks 33-26.

In a back and forth game that featured no less than 19 lead changes, Sydney got out to a 15-14 lead after the first quarter and extended that to five at halftime, 36-31, as Madgen nailed 11 points in the second period.

Early in the third quarter, with Lazare putting on an offensive clinic, the Kings led by nine and looked like they were consolidating control of the game, but the Hawks launched a three point barrage in response, with Forman and Rhys Martin proving lethal from long distance, and they clawed their way back into the contest to make it a 48-48 game with one quarter to play.

With import Corin Henry on the bench, new signing James Harvey restricted to just 13 minutes game time purely as a precautionary measure and Ian Crosswhite playing just ten minutes in the game, Wollongong grabbed the momentum in the fourth as the scoring avenues suddenly dried up for the Kings, and the Hawks poured it on, racing to a game-winning 12 point lead with three minutes remaining as Rhys Martin buried a dagger three pointer.

Sydney were forced into fouling the rest of the way, and committed some silly turnovers and foul line violations to further compound their problems, with only an Aaron Bruce three at the buzzer getting the final margin within double figures.

Wollongongs Martin had an efficient 19 points to be an important contributor on the night for the Hawks, while Larry Davidson finished with 13 points and five rebounds and veteran Glen Saville was a second half key with nine points, seven rebounds and three assists.

Sydneys other import, point guard Henry, tried hard at both ends of the floor, but struggled offensively, especially in the second half, finishing with just seven points and four assists on three of ten shooting from the field.

The Kings now have another fortnight before their next two preseason games to be held in Tamworth, where they will take on the Cairns Taipans.


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  BALTIC LEAGUE   


Neptunas announced Modestas Kumpys and Nikita Barinov - by Eurobasket News

Neptunas announced Modestas Kumpys (191-G-91) and Nikita Barinov (202-F-91) for the upcoming season.
Modestas Kumpys started actually his career for Neptunas Klaipeda (LKL, starting five) and in 2009 season averaged 5.8ppg, 3.1rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 18.8%, FT: 54.2% in BBL. In Lithuanian League his stats read 5.5ppg, 3.4rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 48.7%, 3PT: 30.3%, FT: 58.7%.After another season with the team he moved to Nafta/Univer./Laivite Klaipeda (NKL, starting five) and in 45 games showed 11.0ppg, 6.6rpg, 1.5apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 45.1%, 3PT: 28.1%, FT: 66.7%.
Nikita Barinov started for CSKA-Trinta Moscow (Higher League) early in 2007. Later he played for CSKA Moscow junior team and then last season moved to Lithuania. In 2011-2012 he played for Naglis Palangos (Lithuania-LKL, starting five) and had 11.8ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 47.0%, 3PT: 25.7%, FT: 74.1%. In Baltic League he became the fifth top-scorer with 16.5ppg, 7.1rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 59.2%, 3PT: 36.0%, FT: 72.4%.


Sakalai bring in Paulius Dambrauskas and Edvinas Seskus - by Eurobasket News

Sakalai brought in Paulius Dambrauskas (191-G-91) and Edvinas Seskus (192-SF-95). Both players arrived on loan from Lietuvos Rytas.
Edvinas Seskus spent the most time with S. Marciulionio last season. The forward notched 4.1 points and 2.1 rebounds per game in NKL. He also played for Lietuvos Rytas junior team. Edvinas Seskus also had stints with Rudupis and Perlas-MRU before. He was the member of U16 and U17 Lithuanian National Team.
Paulius Dambrauskas joined Lietuvos Rytas at the start of the previous season. The guard notched 2.0 points per game in EuroCup. In VTB League Paulius Dambrauskas tallied 0.6 points per appearance. In LKL his stats read 2.6 points, while in Baltic League the guard delivered 4.5 points per game. He was the member of U18 and U20 Lithuanian National Teams.


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  BOSNIA   


Banvit keep Kenan Bajramovic - by Eurobasket News

Banvit keep Kenan Bajramovic (205-C-81) for the next season. The experienced Bosnian re-signed a deal with Banvit. In 2011-2012 he averaged 9.3ppg, 4.9rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 66.7%, 3PT: 32.3%, FT: 59.3% in EuroCup and in Turkish League had 11.0ppg, 4.7rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 59.5%, 3PT: 38.7%, FT: 70.8%.
Earlier Bajramovic played for Lietuvos Rytas where he had 11.4 ppg, 5.2 rpg and 1.4 apg in 14 Euroleague games last season. In LKL, Bajramovic added 12.8 ppg, 4.1 rpg and 1.7 apg. Rytas also competed in VTB United league, where Bajramovic collected 12.1 ppg and 3.2 rpg for 9 games. The Bosnian had even better season with Rytas in 2009/10. They won the Lithuanian title and Cup. Bajramovic started that season with ALBA Berlin and moved to Rytas in January. He was their member also in 2007/08. Kenan Bajramovic played for Turk Telekom in 2008/09 season. He also has experience from Kyiv, Azovmash, Bosna Sarajevo and Celik Zenica. He is active member of the Bosnian NT since 2001. Kenan Bajramovic was Eurobasket.com All-Lithuanian LKL Import Player of the Year -11.



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  CHINA   


China Beats Japan 103-80, Will Face Korea Tomorrow - by Arthur Volbert

China defeated Japan 103-80 in the FIBA Asia U-19 Championship and will have a rematch with Korea in tomorrow's final. Korea edged Iran 96-93. Both China and Korea earned a spot in next year's world championship as will the winner of tomorrow's third place game between Iran and Japan.

China only led Japan by one point, 24-23, after the first quarter but extended the margin to 54-38 at the half. The score was 71-54 after three quarters. China seemed to be saving its energy for the final game tomorrow. No one played more than 27 minutes. Wang Zhelin played 24.

Dai Huaibo (205-C/F-94) led the scoring with 23 points, hitting all 8 of his shots and all 7 of his free throws. Wang Zhelin had 21 points and 10 rebounds. Li Jinglong scored 15 and Gao Shang had 13. Zhou Qi had 4 points, 7 rebounds and 4 blocks in 18 minutes. Luo Hanchen had 9 points and 4 assists in 16 minutes.

Mashiro Narita scored 17 for Japan. Yuka Osaki had 14, Yuka Watenabe had 13 while Kazuchi Mori and Yusei Sugiura each had 10. China outrebounded Japan 36-25 and outshot Japan 57 percent to 42 percent.

Choi Junyong had 38 points and 8 rebounds to lead Korea over Iran. Lee Jonghyun had 14 points and 11 rebounds, Cheon Gibeom had 13 points and 12 assists. Iran led 25-15 after one quarter, 48-42 at the half and 71-68 after three quarters. But Korea outscored Iran 28-22 in the fourth quarter to win the game. Iran outrebounded Korea 44-32.

Link to box score:
http://www.fibaasia.net/UserImages/BSF0120128255292.PDF

Other games:
Indonesia 67 Bahrain 64
Syria 86 India 76
Chinese Taipei 77 Saudi Arabia 38
Philippines 80 Lebanon 69


U18 Championship: China topple Japan to reach Final - by Eurobasket News

China U18 - Japan U18 103:80

China became the first U18 Asia Championship finalists. They defeated Japan in the first semifinal of the day in Ulaanbaatar. Dai Huaibo (205-C/F-94) delivered 23 points to lead the reigning champions.
China jumped to an early lead however Japan did not allow their opponents to clear off. Japan trailed by just one point after ten minutes 23:24. China managed to pull away late in the first half. They went on a 14:2 run to ensure a 16-point lead at halftime. China maintained the lead throughout the third term. They secured a 71:54 advantage at the final intermission. China kept Japan at distance throughout the fourth term and rallied to the victory at the end. Wang Zhelin (215-C/F-94) provided 21 points and 10 rebounds, while Li Jinglong (195-F-95) added 15 points for the winning side. Masahiro Narita (185-SF-94) answered with 17 points for Japan. Yuta Osaka (179-PG-94) had 14 points in the loss.

China U18: Dai Huaibo 23, Wang Zhelin 21+10 boards, Li Jinglong 15
Japan U18: Masahiro Narita 17, Yuta Osaka 14


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  COLOMBIA   


FEDERATION CUP NEWS , ONCE CALDAS GOT ITS IMPORTS - by Victor Garcia

Manizales' team Once Caldas announced formally the name the three imports for the 2012 Federation Cup bringing experienced players well known in the continent.
The first signing was the American guard Tayron Thomas (1,91), who comes from the Dominican Republic after a good season, Thomas is a scoring guard who likes to penetrate and play in the fast break,
The second import is from Sierra Leona, Alpha Bangura (1,95 G/F), a versatile guard forward with great scoring skills, Bangura is well know in Venezuela and in the Dominican Repiblic.
The man in the paint will Christopher Moore (2,04 F) who fills the power forward spot and also has been playing lately in the Dominican Republic.

The three players will join the Colombian roster made by Rodrigo Caicedo, Yader Fernandez, Sergio Trocha and Jairo Mendoza as the main pieces plus Colombian-Venezuelan Jorge Leon.


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  CROATIA   

A1 Standings

A1 Stage Two Standings
Championship Group
 1. Cedevita 0-0 
 2. Cibona 0-0 
 3. Jolly 0-0 
 4. KK Split 0-0 
 5. KK Zagreb CO 0-0 
 6. Svjetlost 0-0 
 7. Zabok 0-0 
 8. Zadar 0-0 
Play-Out
 1. Alkar Sinj 0-0 
 2. Borik 0-0 
 3. Darda 0-0 
 4. Dubrovnik 0-0 
 5. Krizevci 0-0 
 6. Kvarner 2010 0-0 
Stage One Standings


Standings - A2 League

A2 Standings
Group Center
 1. Bosco 0-0 
 2. Dubrava 0-0 
 3. Gorica 0-0 
 4. Hermes Anal. 0-0 
 5. Kaptol 0-0 
 6. Mladost Z. 0-0 
 7. Novska 0-0 
 8. Rudes 0-0 
 9. Samobor 0-0 
 10. Sanac Karl. 0-0 
 11. Sus.-Moslavina 0-0 
 12. Zrinjevac 0-0 
Group East
 1. Belisce 0-0 
 2. Klasije 0-0 
 3. Meteor D. 0-0 
 4. Mladost C. 0-0 
 5. Olimp Inspekt 0-0 
 6. Osjecki Sokol 0-0 
 7. Valpovo 0-0 
 8. Vinkovci 0-0 
 9. Virovitica 0-0 
 10. Vrijednosnice 0-0 
 11. Vukovar 0-0 
 12. Zupanja 0-0 
Group North
 1. Bjelovar 0-0 
 2. Cakovec 0-0 
 3. Graficar 0-0 
 4. Ivancica 0-0 
 5. Koprivnica 0-0 
 6. Medjimurje C. 0-0 
 7. Mladost D. 0-0 
 8. Petar Zrinski 0-0 
 9. Podravac Virje 0-0 
 10. Radnik 0-0 
 11. Rudar-Cimper 0-0 
 12. Vindija V. 0-0 
Group South
 1. Cetina 0-0 
 2. DOSK 0-0 
 3. Drazen Petrovic 0-0 
 4. GKK Sibenik 0-0 
 5. Jazine 0-0 
 6. Kastela 0-0 
 7. Metkovic 0-0 
 8. Omis Galeb 0-0 
 9. Policnik 0-0 
 10. Solin 0-0 
 11. Trogir 0-0 
 12. Vostarnica 0-0 
Group West
 1. Crikvenica 0-0 
 2. Fazana 0-0 
 3. Ghia Staff 0-0 
 4. Jadran 0-0 
 5. Kastav 0-0 
 6. Kraljevica 0-0 
 7. Otocac 0-0 
 8. Pula 1981 0-0 
 9. Rovinj 0-0 
 10. Skrljevo 0-0 
 11. Stoja Pula 0-0 
 12. Zamet 0-0 


B Liga Standings

B Liga Standings
Center
 1. Auctor 0-0 
 2. Duga Resa 0-0 
 3. Fortuna 0-0 
 4. Ivanic 0-0 
 5. Jaska 0-0 
 6. Maksimir 0-0 
 7. Medvescak 0-0 
 8. Petrinja 0-0 
 9. Podsused 0-0 
 10. Savia 0-0 
 11. Sisak 0-0 
 12. Zapad 0-0 
East
 1. Beli Manastir 0-0 
 2. Hrvatski Sokol 0-0 
 3. Ilok 0-0 
 4. Nasice 0-0 
 5. Orahovica 0-0 
 6. Pozega 0-0 
 7. Rekord Tim 0-0 
 8. SK Sedan 0-0 
 9. SK Vukovar 0-0 
 10. Slavonija 0-0 
 11. Strmac 0-0 
West
 1. Amfora 0-0 
 2. D.Petrovic 0-0 
 3. Dalmatia Lions 0-0 
 4. Dalvin 0-0 
 5. Jolly-JBS-J.B. 0-0 
 6. Mislav 0-0 
 7. Otok Ugljan 0-0 
 8. Sukosan 0-0 



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


Diego Kapelan: I am a winner - by Michael Aristidou



An interesting interview we had from the Diego Kapelan (190-G-87, college: McNeese St.) newcomer in Cyprus league this year. Diego will play for Pizza Express Apollon Limassol this year.


Eur: New season in Cyprus and Pizza Express Apollon Limassol, how does feel?
Kap: It feels great to be a part of this team. I'm excited and ready for a big season for us.


Eur: Do you know anyone from yout new teammates?
Kap: I have known Kai Williams for a couple of years now. I also have been in touch with Majic Dorsey and Brandon Brown. We are trying to make a good atmosphere early so we can be ready to play with each other right away, especially because we only have a few weeks before we play Eurochallenge qualifiers. We are all ready and excited to play.


Eur: From where did you take information about the team?
Kap: I took some information from friends, manager, and the internet. I have heard very good things about Apollon.


Eur: Do you have any opinion about the level in Cyprus?
Kap: I know it is a very high level. They play very strong style of basketball. Last year Darryl Watkins was signed to NBA team after the season. Also i know many high level leagues follow Cyprus league.


Eur: Describe us your profile as a player
Kap: I am a winner. We won Southland Conference championship with McNeese State University. I have experience with Bosnia and Herzegovinia national team. I am a combo guard, i can score many different ways but i also love to pass the ball when a teammate is in good rhythm. I can play the 1 and 2 positions very well and am strong enough to guard 3 positions.


Eur: The team will fight for the championship, are you ready to face the challenge?
Kap: Yes I am very prepared for this. I train very hard in the summers in hopes of being a champion in the season.


Eur: You have some titles before, here in Cyprus things are tough and competitive what your opinion is?
Kap: Won lower mainland championship in high school, at McNeese State University won the Southland Conference Championship, also played in the NIT post season tournament. I know that the Cyprus league is a very strong style of play. I'm a strong player so this is something that does not bother me and i actually like to play this style.

Eur: Apollon has supporting fans and demanding also, are aware of that?
Kap: Yes i am very aware of this. I have seen some videos on youtube and i am ready to make the fans cheer even louder this season.


Eur: Do you perform better in a full capacity ground?
Kap: I love to play in full capacity. These are my favorite games and moments i remember for lifetime. I prepare all summer for this so i am ready and there is no pressure on me.


Eur: Say something for the fans
Kap: To all the fans: management has brought very good group of players and all the fans should be very excited. We all have very high expectations this season for Apollon. We need all supporters of Apollon to come together for all games and make it tough for all teams to pay in our arena. We must protect our house!!!


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


Naestved tab Drew Crowell - by Eurobasket News

Naestved bolstered their frontcourt. They announced the signing of Drew Crowell (205-F-88). The forward will start his pro career in Denmark. Drew Crowell has graduated from Wofford College this year. The forward averaged 9.0 points, 5.4 rebounds and 1.4 assists per game in his senior season. Drew Crowell became Southern Conference Tournament winner in 2010 and 2011.


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


Brian Asbury joins Cajasol Sevilla - by Eurobasket News

Cajasol Sevilla bolstered their roster. They signed deal with Brian Asbury (200-SF-86, college: Miami, FL). The contract is meant for the next season. The forward spent the last season in Israel. He played for Elitzur Netanya. Brian Asbury notched 18.0 points, 7.6 boards, 1.7 assists and 1.4 steals per game in Premier League. He earned All-Israeli League Honourable Mention. Previously Brian Asbury had stints with Hapoel Tel-Aviv, Kiryat Tivon. Eurobasket.com named the forward All-Israeli National League Player of the Year in 2010 and 2011. Brian Asbury played for the USA selection at 2007 William Jones Cup.


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


BC Donetsk bring in D'Or Fischer - by Eurobasket News

BC Donetsk bolstered their frontcourt. They have reportedly agreed on terms of contract with D'or Fischer (211-C-81, college: W.Virginia).. The centre was targeted by several big European teams but BC Donetsk won the battle. D'or Fischer spent the previous season in Spain. He played for Bilbao Basket. He tallied 7.9 points, 5.9 rebounds, 1.6 assists and 1.1 blocks per game in Euroleague. In ACB D'or Fischer notched 8.5 points, 5.5 boards, 1.3 assists, 1.2 steals and 1.9 blocks per appearance. Eurobasket.com named the centre All-Euroleague Import Player of the Year. He was also trumped All-Spanish ACB Defensive Player of the Year. Previously D'or Fischer had stints with Real Madrid, Maccabi Tel-Aviv, Euphone Bree, Oldenburg, Anwil and Roanoke Dazzle. Eurobasket.com named the player All-Israeli League Centre of the Year in 2009.


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


EUROBASKET: Finland crushed Belgium 97-60 - by Rauno Hurmalainen

EuroBasket, Qualifying Round, Group E, Helsinki - Finland: Two top teams meeting at Helsinki Icehall. Finland winning all four quarters and crushing Belgium by 37 points margin: 97-60 (37-32). Quarters: 19-18, 18-14, 29-11, 31-17. Finland won the second half 60-28!
The hosts made 3-pointers with 66,7% accuracy, when hitting 16 times out of 24 shots from behind the arc. Mikko Koivisto (194-G-87, college: NC-Greensboro) was 4/4 and Petteri Koponen (194-PG-88) 4/7 from behind the bonus line. Koponen led again Finland with 21 points and eight assists. Shawn Huff (198-SF-84, college: Valparaiso) (17), Koivisto (12) and Tuukka Kotti (205-PF-81, college: Providence) (11) were also in double digits. Belgium had only one player over 10 points! Sam Van Rossom (188-PG-86) led the visitors with 11 pts. Belgium had 22 turnovers in the contest and that is much too much! Finland record now 3-0, Belgium 2-1.
Finland - Belgium 97-60 (37-32). F: Petteri Koponen 21/8a, Shawn Huff 17, Mikko Koivisto 12, Tuukka Kotti 11/4. 1 - 65,2% (15/23), 2 - 53,1% (17/32), 3 - 66,7% (16/24). R: 31. TO: 10. - B: Sam Van Rossom 11, Wen Mukubu 9, Christophe Beghin 7/4. 1 - 64,3% (9/14), 2 - 40,5% (15/37), 3 - 46,7% (7/15). R: 28. TO: 22. A: 4020.
Next Game: August 27 Switzerland - Finland.


KORISLIIGA: Louis Johnson next to Finland - by Rauno Hurmalainen

YMCA Lahti has signed the second American player for coming 2012-13 season. C-PF Louis Johnson (206-F/C-86, agency: Pro Partner Sports Management, college: W.Illinois) will be team's big man. Johnson has played earlier in Portugal and two seasons in Slovakia. Last season Johnson averaged 12,9 ppg - 8,0 rpg on Komarno roster in Slovakia. Earlier YMCA Lahti signed with Jordan Hasquet (206-F-85, agency: Dynamics Global Management, college: Montana). Team's new Head Coach is Ilkka Palviainen .
Bisons (Loimaa) will have the same three American players as last season, when winning Finnish Championship. Jeb Ivey (190-G-80, college: Portland St.), Martin Zeno (196-G-85, college: Texas Tech) and now also Ryan McDade (201-F-80, college: N.Arizona) (11,5 ppg - 8,1 rpg) will be the Americans Bisons and Head Coach Greg Gibson trust also in the future. McDade will start his fourth season in Finland. Newcomer is Finnish G Ilpo Pehkonen (181-G-89) (2,4 ppg - 0,4 rpg), who played the last three seasons on Kataja (Joensuu) roster.


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


STB Le Havre brings Bernard King back to the roster - by Eurobasket News

STB Le Havre brings Bernard King (196-G-81, college: Texas A&M) back to the roster for the upcoming season. The player started the season 2011 with the team but then played in several other French clubs.
The guard started the season 2011-2012 in Chalons-Reims. Bernard King posted 12.8 points, 3.3 boards, 3.3 assists and 1.0 steal per game in ProB. Last season Bernard King played for Le Havre. The guard notched 14.6 points, 5.4 assists, 3.6 rebounds and 1.4 steals per game in ProA. Previously Bernard King had stints in Cyprus, Latvia, Turkey, Israel and NBDL. Eurobasket.com named the guard into All-Latvian League 1st Team in 2009. He also made it into All-EuroCup Challenge 2nd Team in 2007. Bernard King was the Cyprus Cup winner with Keravnos in 2007. He also won the Latvian League with BK Ventspils in 2009.

In Jan.'12 moved to Sluc Nancy Basket Pro (France-ProA) and after 15 games averaged 7.7ppg, 1.7rpg, 2.7apg, FGP: 62.5%, 3PT: 46.2%, FT: 70.6%, injured in May'12 and was off for the rest of the season.


French teams open 2012/2013 preseason - by Eurobasket News

French teams open 2012/2013 preseason mostly between each other.
Yesterday JDA Dijon (Pro A) overcame Aix-Maurienne SB (Pro B) 83:64. Andre Harris (201-F/C-85, college: Fair Dickinson) and Jeremy Leloup (202-F-87) stepped up with 13 points, while Kevin Tiggs (196-G/F-84, college: E.Tenn.St.) and Lens Aboudou (192-G-90) notched 11 each.
EB Pau-Lacq-Orthez (Pro B) edged U. Tarbes-Lourdes PB (NM2) 92:52. The favourites started with 16-14 lead and added 25-11 in the second quarter. Moreover EB Pau-Lacq-Orthez won the third quarter 21-12 and finished the game with 30-15.Brian Boddicker (204-F-81, college: Texas) top-scored for the winners with 20 points and Antoine Mendy (198-F-83) nailed 17. Jackson poured in 15, while F. Lesca and Pelos netted 8 each.
JSF Nanterre (Pro A) overcame SPO Rouen (Pro B) 66:65 and Fos-sur-Mer OP (Pro B) rolled over AS Monaco (NM1) 79:51.


Chalons-Reims land Justin Burrell - by Eurobasket News

Justin Burrell (206-F-88, college: St.John's) will continue his career in France. The forward has agreed on terms of contract with Chalons-Reims. Justin Burrell started his pro career last season. He moved to Japan to sign with Yokohama B-Corsairs. The forward averaged 18.8 points, 10.1 boards and 1.9 assists per game in BJ League. He made it into All-Japanese BJ League 2nd Team. Justin Burrell participated at BJ League All-Star Game. The forward participated at NBA Pro Summer League this year. He notched 6.2 points and 4.4 boards per game for the Golden State Warriors in Las Vegas. Justin Burrell graduated from St. John's University in 2011. He was named All-Big East Sixth Man of the Year in his senior season.


Rueil add Stanley Dubois - by Eurobasket News

Rueil bolstered their squad. They added Stanley Dubois (188-G-90). The guard spent the previous season with Avignon. Previously Stanley Dubois had stints with Limoges, La Caja Gran Canaria Las Palmas junior team and Vichy U21 team. The guard was the member of U19 French National Team.


Justin Gray signs with Poitiers - by Eurobasket News

Justin Gray (188-G-84, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: Wake Forest) signs with Poitiers for the upcoming season. The American Guard comes from Enosi Kalathosfairisis Kavalas where he finished last season. He started 2011-2012 season for Fraport Skyliners Frankfurt (Germany-1.Bundesliga, starting five) and averaged 16.0ppg, 2.8rpg, 3.5apg, FGP: 41.8%, 3PT: 29.3%, FT: 93.9%. In Apr.'12 moved to Enosi Kalathosfairisis Kavalas (Greece-A1) and had 4.0ppg, 2.0rpg, 1.0apg, 1.5spg.
Earlier he played for BC Donetsk and PAOK. In A1 League Justin Gray tallied 11.8 points, 2.9 boards and 2.8 assists per appearance. The season 2010 the guard spent in Poland. He notched 14.6 points, 3.3 assists and 2.7 boards for Turow in PLK. Gray participated at the PLK All-Star Game. The guard also had spells in Czech Republic and Belgium.


*****************************************************
  FYR MACEDONIA   


Marjan Gjurov will play next season in the BBC Rabotnicki - by Georgi Bujukliev

Marjan Gjurov returned to the "City Park". After successful appearances on Feni Industry in the past few years, Marjan Gjurov next season will defend the colors of "Rabotnicki"-Skopje. The deal is expected to be completed by the end of the weekend.
Along with the new young players , Marjan Gjurov is already eleven reinforcement in BBC "Rabotnicki" during the summer .In the past few days he trained in " City Park " along with other basketball players and coach Marjan Lazovski is satisfied so far 32 - year-old considered Gjurov will be an important link in the conception of the team for next season .
" Marjan Gjurov is a basketball player who I believe will play a very important role in our planned rotation for next season . His experience and quality , which we are all familiar , would fit in the team ,creating for the next season ,in that the combination of experienced players and young energetic basketball players, " said coach ,Lazovski.
The Contract between Marjan Gjurov and BBC"Rabotnicki"-Skopje , should be formalized by the end of the weekend ,and in the meantime , the team of " City Park " continues with regular training , preparing for the upcoming season .
" We have for ten days training with strong intensity and I am pleased becouse the players displayed that efforts well . The team will be complete soon and in full composition to start friendly matches at the beginning of next month, " complete coach Marjan Lazovski .
Otherwise , before Marjan Gjurov (201-SF-80) of the distinguished names in BBC"Rabotnicki-Skopje arrived Nenad Zivchevik,Slobodan Mihajlovski and Aleksandar Dimitrovski .


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


Ozhan Gurel And SC Rist Go Separate Ways - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Big German talent Ismet Akpinar who has developed so nicely under the guidance of SC Rist Wedel head coach Ozhan Gurel will no longer be working together this season as the club announced that both club and coach have gone separate ways. The club has announced that the reason for the split is a difference in opinion about how the roster should be put together. SC Rist has a lot to be thankful to Ozhan Gurel as he achieved very much for the team. Gurel led the team back into teh German second league as well as bringing the team into the PRO B playoffs last season. The club thanks Gurel for his huge dedication and wish him all the best for the future. Gurel coached the SC Rist woman's team from 2004-2007 and was head coach of the men's side since 2007.

Source: SC Rist


TV Langen Bring In Tobias Jahn, Julian Boelke And Nico Barth - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber


PRO B club TV Langen brought in Tobias Jahn (205-F-86, college: Cal Poly Pomona) and Julian Boelke (203-F-87) and also get a familiar face back with Nico Barth (182-PG-92) the brother of German players Sebastian Barth and Kai Barth. Jahn is a 26 year old 205cm forwrad that has 4 years of NCAA 2 experience and last season played for Erdgas Ehingen/Urspringschule (ProA) playing 28 games: 4.7ppg, 3.1rpg. He started his basketball career at TGS Ober-Ramstadt (Regionalliga) in 2003. In 2004, he played a season in the States at Forth Worth Christian HS: 29 games: 15.7ppg. In 2005-2006, he had his first stay at TV Langen (2.Bundesliga): 5 games: 2.6ppg, 1.4rpg - BG Ober-Rastadt (Regionalliga, starting five): 20 games: 9.1ppg. He played at Cal Poly Pomona (NCAA2) from 2007-2011 playing a total of 113 NCAA 2 games. Julian Boelke is a 24 year old 203cm forward that started his basketball career at Eintracht Frankfurt (2.Regionalliga) in 2006. He played for TuS Makkabi Frankfurt from 2008-2010 and last season for Licher Basket Baeren (ProB): 2 games: 2.5ppg, 1.5rpg, in Oct..'11 moved to TuS Makkabi Frankfurt (2.Regionalliga). "Julian and Tobias are big and robust players that will help us under the basket. Both work hard and the experience of Tobias Jahm in the PRO A will help us", stressed TV Langen head coach Ty Shaw (202-F/C-79, college: Idaho Coll.). Nico Barth also returns back to TV Langen and will steer the TV Langen back court together with brother Sebastian Barth. Nico Barth is a 20 year old 182cm point guard that started his career with the TV Langen junior team. Barth spent last year in Australia and was recuperating from an injury. "This will be a big year for me since I will be playing side by side with my big brother. That is a real experience. I hope I can integrate myself well into the team after my injury and help the team be successful",added Nico Barth.

Source: TV Langen



Chris Copeland (New York Knicks) Everybody Talks About My Scoring, But My Passing gets Underestimated - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Christopher Copeland (203-F-84, college: Colorado) is a 28 year old 203 cm power forward from Orange, New Jersey that recently signed a contract with the NBA New York Knicks. He went to the University of Colorado from 2002-2006. In his senior year, he played 30 games averaging 12.1ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.6apg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 44%, 3PT: 35.7%, FT: 68.8%. In his first season overseas, he played for Beirasar Rosalia (Spain-LEB Gold, starting five), only pre-season, then moved to C.B. L'Hospitalet (Spain-LEB Gold, starting five) playing 4 games averaging 4.0ppg, 8.0rpg and then moved to Matrixx Magix Nijmegen (Holland-Eredivisie, starting five) playing 28 games and averaging 18.0ppg, 7.6rpg, 2.1apg, 1.5spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 49.7%, 3PT: 40.3%, FT: 79.3%.in 2008-2009 season, he moved to Germany to TBB Trier playing 34 games averaging 13.2ppg, 4.9rpg, 2.3apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 56.9%, 3PT: 35.6%, FT: 74.8%. In 2009-2010, he continued to play for TBB Trier playing 33 games: Score-2 (16.8ppg), 4.6rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 55.9%, 3PT: 35.9%, FT: 76.0%.In 2010-2011, he played for for Generali Okapi Aalstar (Belgium) he played 36 games: 14.6ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.4apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 49.8%, 3PT: 33.5%, FT: 73.8%. Last season for Generali Okapi Aalstar, he played Belgian League: 33 games: Score-1 (21.8ppg), 5.5rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 57.2%, 3PT-2 (44.7%), FT: 79.1%; EuroChallenge: 11 games: Score-2 (20.1ppg), 4.0rpg, 3.6apg, FGP: 59.8%, 3PT: 40.9%, FT: 79.2%. This summer, he played NBA Pro Summer League in Las Vegas (New York Knicks): 5 games: 13.8ppg, 4.0rpg He spoke to eurobasket about his season in Belgium and his time with TBB Trier this summer before he signed an NBA contract with the New York Knicks.

You recently played your second season in Belgium. How quickly has time flown by since your days with TBB Trier?


Time has been flying so I must be getting older. I had a great time in Belgium.


You have played two seasons with Generali Okapi Aalstar and have a contract for next season. Did you get tips from ex teammate James Gillingham about staying with one team for a longer time?


He was a great leader and friend when I was with TBB Trier. We havent talked in a while, but he used to always give me advice about things.

You wanted to come to the TBB Trier-Fraport Skyliners game, but you were held up in Belgium?


Yes I was in Belgium. I had been planning to come to that game for a while and see Jamal Shuler, but we lost an ugly game on the weekend and had to practice Sunday. I would loved to have come, but that comes with the job.

You live in Aalsz Belgium which is smaller than Trier. How did you like living there?


The people were great there and its more quiet which is my speed. It was a great situation. Trier was bigger and I loved the people there also. I already enjoyed going to the Petrisberg in Trier. I loved the fans in Trier.

You won the Belgium cup this year against the Antwerpen Giants. What kind of a feeling was it winning your first title in Europe?


Winning was very amazing. It was so more special the way we won. We had to claw back and fight back and win in OT. It is always so much more special when you can win like that especially in a big game.

You had a big 24-10 fourth quarter to bring the game to OT. What was key for getting the win?


Defense, defense, defense. We had to get stops and started hitting our shots. We took the game into OT and took over from there.

Have you ever seen a better Kevin Kruger who was named MVP with 31 points?


I have seen Kevin have many great nights this season. He was very important in our comeback and showed how great a point guard he is by controlling the tempo having a bigger lineup. He kept us in line and is just a great point guard.

You have played against 2008 Beko BBL scoring champion Tim Black. What do you like most about his game?


He is an intelligent player with a high basketball IQ. He is a very good decision maker and takes good shots. He makes his team better and it is hard to defend him. You never know what he will do.

What was it like playing in a 9 team league instead of an 18 team league like in Germany?


With less teams, you play the teams more and become more familiar with the teams. It becomes more challenging when you see the same guys so often. Scouting becomes so much more important.

You have always been a scorer, but this season you led the Belgium league in scoring. Did something change in your role compared to last season?


I had a much bigger role this season. We lost many talented guys so I had to step it up a bit.

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


Everybody talks about my scoring, but my passing gets underestimated.

What can you still improve on your game?


I can still improve my defense. My one on one is solid, but my off ball defense can get better.

Your teammate was Jorn Steinbach who is a Belgium national player. Can he make the next step to another country or will he always play in Belgium?

He can play anywhere. He is very talented and smart. I am looking forward to the next years to see where he will play and how he will develop.

What has been the most amazing thing that you have seen Kevin Kruger do in a practice?

He is very good and making half court shots.

Who is the best player that you have faced in Belgium?


Mike Haynes who used to play in Germany. He is very athletic and just an all around good player.

What are the biggest differences to Belgium and the Beko BBL?


I think that they are pretty much similar, but there are 9 teams more in Germany. The Beko BBL is taller. There are more bigs in the Beko BBL.

Do you still have contact to ex TBB Trier players?

I have contact to many, but mostly to Derek Raivio and Jamal Shuler.

What else do you miss from Trier besides the Petrisberg?


I hung out there very much, but if I wasnt there, I was playing video games with George Evans, Jamal Shuler and Derek Raivio.

You had a 2-2 record against Frankfurt. What player do you remember most? Maybe Quantez Robertson?


Tez was very exciting and was all over the court, but I remember Derrick Allen the most. He was always the guy that I matched up against.

Maik Zirbes could land in the NBA someday. Did you already sense some years back that he had potential?


Yes I did. Maik has some natural abilities that not many have. He is a very hard worker and sky is the limit for him.

What was the perfect Derek Raivio to Chris Copeland pass?


That is hard, because he made so many great passes. He gave me ally-op passes or long passes that hit me in the chest.

What were the most free throws that you made in a row in practice?

At Colorado (NCAA), I once made a little less than 100. Josh Levin was my rebounder.

What was your most crazy shot in your basketball career?

In the corner way out of bounds shot from behind the basket.

With what players would you like to play together with?

With Jamal Shuler and Derek Raivio again?

If you had to chose between Nate Fox and Chris Young to play a one on one game with, who would you chose?

Neither. It would be a punishment to have to play against one of them. They are so hard to defend, because they are so big.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Inglourious Basterds.

Thanks Chris for the chat.


Nagora and Johnson have joined SUM Baskets Braunschweig - by Moritz Korff

According to the teams' website, two new players have been added to the roster of the Spot Up Medien Baskets Braunschweig (2. Bundesliga Pro B) for the 2012-13 campaign. Marc Nagora (203-F-93) and Dominique Johnson (193-F-92). Nagora is a 18-year-old forward from Hamburg, who played 12 Pro B games for SC Rist Wedel last season, averaging 1.8 points per contest. He also appeared in 13 encounters for Bramfelder SV (2. Regionalliga) and scored 16.9 points a game.
Johnson saw action in three BBL games for Eisbaeren Bremerhaven, but mostly played in the 2. Regionalliga, averaging 15.2 points a contest for BSG Bremerhaven.


*****************************************************
  IRAN   


U18 Championship: South Korea hold off Iran to enter title game - by Eurobasket News

South Korea U18 - Iran U18 96:93

South Korea prevailed against Iran in the semifinal thriller tonight to enter the title game at U18 Asia Championship. The Korean team will take on China in the remake of 2010 Final. Choi Jun-Yong (200-F-94) exploded with 38 points to lead the winners.
Iran strongly entered the game. They grabbed control and rallied to a 25:15 lead after ten minutes. South Korea picked up the tempo in the second frame. They fired 27 points to narrow the deficit at 6-point mark at halftime 48:42. South Korea stayed red hot in the third quarter. They knocked down 26 points to trim the deficit to 3-point mark at the final break. Iran were up by five points with just over three minutes remaining. However South Korea scored six points in a row to take an 86:85 lead. Rahmati returned the lead for Iran however Kang and Heo made it 94:91 for South Korea. Heo then dropped a jumper and sealed the victory for South Korea. Gibeom Cheon (187-G-94) accounted for 13 points and 12 rebounds, while Jonghyun Lee (206-C-94) added 14 points and 11 rebounds in the victory. Vahid Dalirzahan (199-SF-95) answered with 20 points and 8 rebounds for Iran. Behnam Yakhchali (191-G-95) netted 19 points in the loss.

South Korea U18: Choi Jun-Yong 38, Jonghyun Lee 14+11 boards, Gibeom Cheon 13+12 boards
Iran U18: Vahid Dalirzahan 20, Behnam Yakhchali 19


2012 William Jones Cup: Anyang KGC hand Iran the second straight loss - by Eurobasket News

Iran-Anyang KGC 73:82

Anyang KGC hand Iran the second straight loss at the 2012 William Jones Cup. The South Korean team won 82:73 and tied both records at 5-2.
Iran started with 27-14 but could not keep the advantage. They nailed only 7 points in the second period and allowed the South Korean team to post 16. Moreover the latter produced 29-11 in the decisive third period and did not mind the late run from the opponents. Iran won the last period 28-23 but could reduce only to 9 points.
Lee Jung-Hyun (191-F-87) stepped up with 24 points to lead the winners to the 5th victory. Stutz Garrett (212-C-90, college: Wichita St.) nailed 17, while Pattillo Juan (197-F-88, college: W.Kentucky) posted 10. Samad BAHRAMI finished the game with 19 points in the losing effort and Hamed Afagh (190-SG-83) had 16. Asghar Kardoust (212-C-86) brought 15, while Mehdi KAMRANI nailed 12.

Iran: Samad BAHRAMI 19, Hamed Afagh 16, Asghar Kardoust 15, Mehdi KAMRANI 12
Anyang KGC: Lee Jung-Hyun 24, Stutz Garrett 17, Pattillo Juan 10


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


Austin Freeman heads to Hapoel Eilat - by Eurobasket News

Austin Freeman (190-G-89, college: Georgetown) heads to Hapoel Eilat for the upcoming season. The American player leaves Italy after 2 years.
A powerful, solid guard, who has a good outside shooting range, but who can also create his own shot out of the dribble. In 2011-2012 he played for MarcoPoloShop.it Forli (Italy-Lega2, starting five) and became the fourth top-scorer with 20.9ppg, 4.5rpg, 2.9apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 51.6%, 3PT: 27.2%, FT: 79.9%.
The 22-year-old guard has just graduated from the Georgetown University. The guard posted 17.6 points, 3.7 rebounds and 2.4 assists per game in his senior season. Austin Freeman made it into All-Big East 1st Team. He was also named into NABC Division I All-District 5 1st Team.
In 2012 July Austin Freeman participated at the NBA Pro Summer League in Las Vegas (New Orleans Hornets). In 5 games he averaged 3.4ppg, 2.2rpg.


*****************************************************
  JAPAN   


Julius Ashby joins Fukuoka Rizing - by Eurobasket News

Julius Ashby (205-F/C-82, college: Colorado) will start the new season with the new BJ League team. The centre has agreed on terms of contract with Fukuoka Rizing. Last season Julius Ashby played for Shiga Lakestars. He tallied 12.2 points, 7.6 boards, 1.3 assists and 1.1 blocks per game in BJ League. Previously Julius Ashby had stints with Niigata Albirex, Tokyo Apache, Takamatsu Five Arrows, Criollos de Caguas. He earned All-Japanese BJ League Honourable Mention in 2010. Julius Ashby was the member of Trinidad and Tobago National Team in 2007/10 seasons. Latinbasket.com named the centre All-CBC Championship Best Defensive Player in 2009. Julius Ashby was BJ League finalist in 2007 and 2009. The centre played in BJ League semis in 2011.


Alfred Aboya bolsters Shiga Lakestars roster - by Eurobasket News

Shiga Lakestars strengthened their frontcourt. They added Alfred Aboya (206-F/C-85, college: UCLA) to the squad. He is meant to replace Julius Ashby who left for Fukuoka Rizing. Alfred Aboya spent the last season in Turkey. He played for Final Spor Genclik Bursa. The centre posted 14.2 points, 10.3 rebounds, 1.3 steals and 1.3 blocks per appearance. Previously Alfred Aboya had spells for Bucaneros de La Guaira, Hitachi Sunrockers, Link Tochigi Brex, Antibes and Gravelines. Alfred Aboya is the UCLA graduate. He participated at NCAA D1 All-Star Game in 2009. Alfred Aboya has been the member of Cameroonian National Team since 2002.


Kyoto Hannaryz beef up roster - by Eurobasket News

Kyoto Hannaryz landed three new players. They signed deals with David Palmer (201-F-82, agency: Top Notch Sports, college: S.Utah), Leonardo Pomare (203-F-86, agency: Top Notch Sports, college: San Diego) and Gouki Kitamura (181-G-86).
David Palmer spent the previous season with Ryukyu Golden Kings Okinawa. The forward averaged 11.6 points and 3.9 rebounds per game in BJ League. Previously he had stints with Osaka Evessa, Dakota Wizards and Prostejov. David Palmer was named All-Japanese BJ League Sixth Man of the Year in 2006.
Leonardo Pomare played for Hamamatsu Phoenix last season. The Panamanian forward produced 7.1 points and 5.4 rebounds per game in BJ League. Leonardo Pomare has been the member of Panamanian National Team since 2009.
Gouki Kitamura played for Osaka Evessa lately.


U18 Championship: China topple Japan to reach Final - by Eurobasket News

China U18 - Japan U18 103:80

China became the first U18 Asia Championship finalists. They defeated Japan in the first semifinal of the day in Ulaanbaatar. Dai Huaibo (205-C/F-94) delivered 23 points to lead the reigning champions.
China jumped to an early lead however Japan did not allow their opponents to clear off. Japan trailed by just one point after ten minutes 23:24. China managed to pull away late in the first half. They went on a 14:2 run to ensure a 16-point lead at halftime. China maintained the lead throughout the third term. They secured a 71:54 advantage at the final intermission. China kept Japan at distance throughout the fourth term and rallied to the victory at the end. Wang Zhelin (215-C/F-94) provided 21 points and 10 rebounds, while Li Jinglong (195-F-95) added 15 points for the winning side. Masahiro Narita (185-SF-94) answered with 17 points for Japan. Yuta Osaka (179-PG-94) had 14 points in the loss.

China U18: Dai Huaibo 23, Wang Zhelin 21+10 boards, Li Jinglong 15
Japan U18: Masahiro Narita 17, Yuta Osaka 14


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  JORDAN   


2012 William Jones Cup: Jordan gain second win - by Eurobasket News

Jordan - Taiwan B 85:71

Jordan earned the second victory at William Jones Cup. They overcame Taiwan B National Team for 2-5 record. Taiwan B slipped at 0-8 record after the defeat.
Jordan jumped in front early in the game. They earned a 21:16 lead after ten minutes. Taiwan B denied the deficit in the second quarter. They established a 37:35 halftime lead. Jordan however erupted for 30 points in the third frame and secured a 10-point lead before the fourth frame. Jordan kept the hosts at bay throughout the final stanza and rolled to the victory at the end. Rasheim Wright (192-G-81, college: District of Col.) provided 34 points, 10 rebounds and 3 assists for the winners. Wesam Al-Sous (183-PG-83) added 22 points and 7 assists for the winning side. Yi-Hsiang Chou (193-F-91) accounted for 24 points and 7 rebounds for Taiwan. Chen Kuan-Chuan (195-F-93) had 12 points in the loss.

Jordan: Rasheim Wright 34+10 boards, Wesam Al-Sous 22, Mohammad Shaher 9
Taiwan B: Yi-Hsiang Chou 24, Chen Kuan-Chuan 12


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  LEBANON   


U18 Championship: Philippines rally past Lebanon - by Eurobasket News

Philippines U18 - Lebanon U18 80:69

Philippines will play for the 5th overall place at U18 Asia Championship. They overcame Lebanon in the classification round game tonight. Philippines will face Taiwan in the final game at the tournament. Lebanon will take on Saudi Arabia for the 7th position.
Philippines and Lebanon entered the game aggressively. They traded baskets throughout intense first quarter as Philippines eked out a 22:21 lead. They maintained it throughout the second quarter. Olsen Rasela team gained a 41:38 halftime advantage. Philippines stressed their defence in the third quarter. They held Lebanon to 12 points in the period opening a double-digit lead. Philippines headed into the fourth frame up by 11 points 51:40. The Lebanese team were able to narrow the deficit at 7-point mark but could not get closer and had to surrender at the end. Gideon Babilonia (198-C-95) delivered 18 points and 8 rebounds for Philippines. Mario Bonleon (183-F-94) added 17 points, while Rodolfo Alejandro (180-G-95) and Rashleigh-Paolo Rivero (188-F-95) added 11 points apiece in the victory. Jimmy Salem (190-G-95) answered with 18 points for Lebanon. Gerard Hadidian (197-F/C-95) tallied 15 points and 9 rebounds in the loss.

Philippines U18: Gideon Babilonia 18, Mario Bonleon 17, Rodolfo Alejandro 11, Rashleigh-Paolo Rivero 11
Lebanon U18: Jimmy Salem 18, Gerard Hadidian 15


2012 William Jones Cup: Lebanon hold off USA for third victory - by Eurobasket News

Lebanon - USA 70:67

Lebanon clinched the third victory at William Jones Cup. They held off USA selection to improve at 3-4 record. The North American team slipped at 5-2 record. Elie Estephane (193-G-86, college: Alabama So. CC) accounted for 27 points for Lebanon.
Lebanon strongly entered the game. They outscored their opponents 21:10 in the opening quarter. Lebanon stayed in charge throughout the second quarter. They ensured a 42:26 halftime lead. USA started to wake up in the second half. They cut the deficit at 12-point mark before the fourth frame. USA held their opponents to just 9 points in the final stanza but came up just short of victory at the end. Jarrid Famous (209-C/F-88, college: S.Florida) provided 17 points and 12 rebounds for Lebanon. Hussein El Khatib and Ali Kanaan (207-C/F-85, college: Mass.-Lowell) had 8 points each for the winners. Jermaine Barnes (194-G/F-82, agency: Gamble Sports Management, college: Point, GA) and Jermaine Dearman (202-F/C-80, agency: Top Notch Sports, college: S.Illinois) chipped in 12 points apiece in the loss.

Lebanon: Elie Estephane 27, Jarrid Famous 17+12 boards, Hussein El Khatib 8, Ali Kanaan 8
USA: Jermaine Barnes 12, Jermaine Dearman 12


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  LITHUANIA   


Neptunas announced Modestas Kumpys and Nikita Barinov - by Eurobasket News

Neptunas announced Modestas Kumpys (191-G-91) and Nikita Barinov (202-F-91) for the upcoming season.
Modestas Kumpys started actually his career for Neptunas Klaipeda (LKL, starting five) and in 2009 season averaged 5.8ppg, 3.1rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 18.8%, FT: 54.2% in BBL. In Lithuanian League his stats read 5.5ppg, 3.4rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 48.7%, 3PT: 30.3%, FT: 58.7%.After another season with the team he moved to Nafta/Univer./Laivite Klaipeda (NKL, starting five) and in 45 games showed 11.0ppg, 6.6rpg, 1.5apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 45.1%, 3PT: 28.1%, FT: 66.7%.
Nikita Barinov started for CSKA-Trinta Moscow (Higher League) early in 2007. Later he played for CSKA Moscow junior team and then last season moved to Lithuania. In 2011-2012 he played for Naglis Palangos (Lithuania-LKL, starting five) and had 11.8ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 47.0%, 3PT: 25.7%, FT: 74.1%. In Baltic League he became the fifth top-scorer with 16.5ppg, 7.1rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 59.2%, 3PT: 36.0%, FT: 72.4%.


Mindaugas Bugys will take care of Nafta-Universiteta - by Eurobasket News

Mindaugas Bugys will take care of Nafta-Universiteta for the next season. The Lithuanian 33-year old Specialist will become the Head Coach.
Early in 1996-1997 he played for Neptunas Klaipeda and stayed with the team 8ntil year 2004. In 2004-2005 he moved to Nafta/Univer./Laivite Klaipeda (LKAL) and retired with the team.
For his players Achievements it is a must to mentio that he was Lithuanian NKL Regular Season Champion -06 and Lithuanian NKL Finalist -06. Moreover he was Lithuanian NKL Champion -07.
In 2011-2012 he coached Gargzdai-Bremena (NKL). His former team finished with 14-30 record on the 15th place. First Mindaugas Bugys worked as a Head Coach and then became an Assistant of Vaisvila Rytas.


Lithuanian teams start friendly campaigns - by Eurobasket News

Lithuanian teams start friendly campaigns.
Neptunas overcame Ukrainian Dnipro 76:67. The Lithuanian team started with 21-18 and added 23-10 in the second period. Dnipro replied with 19-12 in the third quarter and both teams nailed 20 points in the last stanza. Deividas Gailius (200-F-88) top-scored for the winners with 24 points and 12 rebounds, while Mazeika and Girdziunas nailed 9 apiece. Valdas Vasylius (203-F-83, college: ODU) replied with 24 points for Dnipro and Low added 19. Daniel Kickert (208-C/F-83, college: St.Mary's, CA) brought 7, while Simas Galdikas (203-F-87) posted 6.
LKKA Atletas lost to Qatar team 85:87. The European side looked better in the first period and stormed with 29-11. Later on the court was dominated by the guests. Qatar won the second period 24-14 and added 22-17 in the second frame. Moreover the Qatari team produced 30-25 in the last period to seal the victory. Tray Marzung top-scored for the winners with 34 points and Artan Holding netted 18. Khalid Suliman followed them with 9 points. Vidmantas Sragauskis (200-F-86) replied with 24 points in defeat and Sarunas Vingelis notched 20. Taurantas Tamosiunas (189-PG-92) scored 19, while Paulius Malasauskas (189-G-91) delivered 9.


Sakalai bring in Paulius Dambrauskas and Edvinas Seskus - by Eurobasket News

Sakalai brought in Paulius Dambrauskas (191-G-91) and Edvinas Seskus (192-SF-95). Both players arrived on loan from Lietuvos Rytas.
Edvinas Seskus spent the most time with S. Marciulionio last season. The forward notched 4.1 points and 2.1 rebounds per game in NKL. He also played for Lietuvos Rytas junior team. Edvinas Seskus also had stints with Rudupis and Perlas-MRU before. He was the member of U16 and U17 Lithuanian National Team.
Paulius Dambrauskas joined Lietuvos Rytas at the start of the previous season. The guard notched 2.0 points per game in EuroCup. In VTB League Paulius Dambrauskas tallied 0.6 points per appearance. In LKL his stats read 2.6 points, while in Baltic League the guard delivered 4.5 points per game. He was the member of U18 and U20 Lithuanian National Teams.


Petravicius ends his career due to health issues - by Eurobasket Center

Marijonas Petravicius (208-F/C-79, college: S.Carolina) decided to prematurely end his professional career at 32-years-old due to serious health issues.
The always-smiling big man was diagnosed with pulmonary microsembolism last year in Eurobasket, but was still hoping of making a comeback.
"Doctors didn't want me to play anymore, because it would put my future health at risk. If I played again, there could be serious complications," Marijonas Petravicius told lrytas.lt
The player had signed a contract with Khimki Moscow Region last season, but left the team in February due to the health condition.
During his career, Petravicius has also played for clubs from Germany, Belgium, Latvia and Italy, with his longest spell coming at Lietuvos Rytas, where he spent three seasons.


Courtesy of lithuaniabasket.com


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  NEW ZEALAND   


Henare to coach Sharks in 2013 - by Hugh McAuliffe

Paul Henare will coach the Southland Sharks in the 2013 National Basketball League.

The Sharks announced Henare as their new head coach yesterday, replacing Richard Dickel , who had been at the helm for the first three years of the franchises existence.

Henare was a key figure with the Breakers and was honoured by becoming the first Breakers player to have his number (32) retired last year.

He played at two Olympics and two world championships with the Tall Blacks and has played professionally in Europe.

After his retirement as a player the 33-year-old has focused on carving out a coaching career, which started with Hawkes Bay, who he played for, and includes him linking with the Tall Blacks as an assistant. He has a 75 per cent winning record during his time at the helm of Hawkes Bay.


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  PHILIPPINES   


U18 Championship: Philippines rally past Lebanon - by Eurobasket News

Philippines U18 - Lebanon U18 80:69

Philippines will play for the 5th overall place at U18 Asia Championship. They overcame Lebanon in the classification round game tonight. Philippines will face Taiwan in the final game at the tournament. Lebanon will take on Saudi Arabia for the 7th position.
Philippines and Lebanon entered the game aggressively. They traded baskets throughout intense first quarter as Philippines eked out a 22:21 lead. They maintained it throughout the second quarter. Olsen Rasela team gained a 41:38 halftime advantage. Philippines stressed their defence in the third quarter. They held Lebanon to 12 points in the period opening a double-digit lead. Philippines headed into the fourth frame up by 11 points 51:40. The Lebanese team were able to narrow the deficit at 7-point mark but could not get closer and had to surrender at the end. Gideon Babilonia (198-C-95) delivered 18 points and 8 rebounds for Philippines. Mario Bonleon (183-F-94) added 17 points, while Rodolfo Alejandro (180-G-95) and Rashleigh-Paolo Rivero (188-F-95) added 11 points apiece in the victory. Jimmy Salem (190-G-95) answered with 18 points for Lebanon. Gerard Hadidian (197-F/C-95) tallied 15 points and 9 rebounds in the loss.

Philippines U18: Gideon Babilonia 18, Mario Bonleon 17, Rodolfo Alejandro 11, Rashleigh-Paolo Rivero 11
Lebanon U18: Jimmy Salem 18, Gerard Hadidian 15


2012 William Jones Cup: Philippines step closer to the title - by Eurobasket News

Philippines- Taiwan 76:72

Philippines step closer to the title of the 2012 William Jones Cup. The team improved to 6-1 record and will need to beat USA tomorrow to win it all! Tonight Philippines edged Taiwan 76:72 as the latter fell at 4-3 record.
Both teams scored 16 points each in the first period and then Philippines grabbed the lead at the halftime due to 21-13 in the second quarter. Taiwan erupted with 27-17 in the third quarter but could not win the game. Philippines needed a narrow 22-16 surge in the lasts stanza to seal the victory.
Marcus Douthit (210-C/F-80, agency: Edge Sports, college: Providence) and Jeffrei Chan (192-F-83) top-scored for the winners with 14 points. LA Tenorio (177-PG-84) and Ranidel DE OCAMPO followed them with 11 points each for the 6th win. Tseng Wen-Ting (203-F/C-84) answered with 18 points in the losing effort and Tsung-Hsien Chang (192-G-87) delivered 16. Mao Chia-En (195-F/G-82) posted 11 and Tien Lei (202-F-83) brought 9.

Philippines: Marcus Douthit 14+12 rebs, Jeffrei Chan 14, LA Tenorio 11, Ranidel DE OCAMPO 11
Taiwan: Tseng Wen-Ting 18, Tsung-Hsien Chang 16, Mao Chia-En 11, Tien Lei 9


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  POLAND   


AZS Koszalin edge Polpharma in test game - by Eurobasket News

AZS Koszalin - Polpharma 89:77

AZS Koszalin and Polpharma continued their preparations for the upcoming PLK season. They played a friendly encounter. AZS Koszalin proved the strength claiming a 12-point victory. The teams will meet again on Wednesday.
AZS Koszalin gained a 21:19 lead after ten minutes. They stretched the margin to 5 points at halftime 48:43. Polpharma narrowed the gap to just 2 points heading into the fourth frame. But AZS Koszalin went on a 21:11 run in the fourth term and sealed the victory at the end. Jeff Robinson (198-F-88, college: Seton Hall) and Bartlomiej Woloszyn (196-F-86) accounted for 16 points each for AZS Koszalin. Lance Jeter (190-G-88, college: Nebraska) added 15 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists in the victory. Uros Mirkovic (205-F/C-82, agency: BeoExcell) answered with 17 points for Polpharma. Ben McCauley (206-F/C-86, college: N.Carolina St.) delivered 12 points in the loss.

AZS Koszalin: Jeff Robinson 16, Bartlomiej Woloszyn 16, Lance Jeter 15
Polpharma: Uros Mirkovic 17, Ben McCauley 12


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  RUSSIA   


Enisey play first test game in Serbia - by Eurobasket News

Enisey opened the series of test games in Kopaonik, Serbia. They faced Montnegrin Buducnost in the opener. Enisey claimed a 71:54 victory. The Russian team led from the start. They accumulated a 15:13 lead after ten minutes. Enisey extended the lead in the second frame. They ensured a 37:32 halftime lead. Enisey limited Buducnost to 9 points in the third quarter to stretch the gap. The Krasnoyarsk team entered the fourth frame up by 12 points. Buducnost never recovered as Enisey rallied to the victory. Alexei Nesterov (203-PF-88) and Petr Gubanov (207-PF-87) delivered 13 points each for Enisey. Maxim Krivosheev (207-F/C-88) added 9 points, while Alexei Kotishevskiy (197-SF-85, agency: RU-Basket Management) had 6 in the victory.


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  SAUDI ARABIA   


U18 Championship: Taiwan destroy Saudi Arabia at the Classification Round - by Eurobasket News

Taiwan U18-Saudi Arabia U18 77:38

Taiwan destroy Saudi Arabia at the Classification Round for 5-8 places at the 22nd Asia U18 Championship. They had an easy 77:38 win and will play tomorrow for the 5th place. Saudi Arabia meanwhile will find out later the opponent for the 7th place.
Taiwan won the first period 14:10 , but Saudi Arabia stayed tough and replied with 13-12 in the second period. The second half however fully belonged to the winning side. Taiwan won the third period 28-7 and finished with 23-8 in the last stanza.
Fang Shih-En (199-C-94) top-scored for the winners with 17 points and 13 rebounds, while Chin Ming-Ching (194-F-94) posted 10. Lee Chia-Jui (200-C-94) notched 9 and Lin Kuan-Chun (184-G-95) delivered 8. Nassir Abojalas (195-F-94) answered with 17 points and 10 rebounds in defeat, while Mahmoud Ahmedkhalil (170-G-94), Khalid Sufyani (170-PG-94) and Safwan Mohammed (203-C-94) had 5 each.

Taiwan U18: Fang Shih-En 17+13 rebs, Chin Ming-Ching 10, Lee Chia-Jui 9, Lin Kuan-Chun 8
Saudi Arabia U18: Nassir Abojalas 17+10 rebs, Mahmoud Ahmedkhalil 5, Khalid Sufyani 5, Safwan Mohammed 5


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  SLOVAKIA   


Maj Kovacevic pens deal with Nitra - by Eurobasket News

Maj Kovacevic (190-G-90) pens deal with Nitra for the upcoming season. The Slovenian player will debut abroad.
In 2011-2012 he played for Geoplin Slovan Ljubljana (Telemach League, starting five) and in 27 games averaged 9.0ppg, 1.6rpg, FGP: 61.1%, 3PT: 42.2%, FT: 87.1%. In 2010-2011 Maj played for Zlatorog Lasko (Telemach League) where he had 5.7ppg, 1.3rpg, FGP: 51.5%, 3PT: 43.5%, FT: 78.6%. Earlier it was announced that Zlatorog will not keep Maj Kovacevic and Slobodan Bozovic for the next season. The team decided not to exercise their options for 2011/12 season.
Maj Kovacevic joined Zlatorog last summer from Krka. He appeared 31 times in the league averaging 5.7 points and 1.3 rebounds. However, it seems that was not enough for Kovacevic to secure an extension.
Maj Kovacevic was also a member of the Slovenian U20 National Team -09-10. At the European Championships U20 in Rhodos (Greece) -09 his stats read 7.5ppg, 2.2rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 37.5%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 90.0%.


Joseph Harris moves to BC Prievidza - by Eurobasket News

Joseph Harris (196-F-87, college: Co.Carolina) moves to BC Prievidza for the next season. The American Forward moves to Slovak republic from South Carolina.
Last season he started for South Carolina Warriors (ABA, starting five), while in Jan.'12 moved to Cader (Uruguay-LUB, starting five). In Uruguayan League his stats read 22.0ppg, 7.3rpg, 2.5apg, 2.0spg, 2.3bpg. Later that month he signed at Plaza de Nueva Helvecia (Uruguay-LUB, starting five) and showed 14.5ppg, 9.0rpg, 1.0apg, 2.0spg. In Feb.'12, agreed terms with Albany Legends (IBA), but in April'12 moved back to South Carolina Warriors (ABA, starting five).
In 2010-2011 he played for Jelson Homes DMU Leicester City Riders (United Kingdom-BBL, starting five) and had 15.3ppg, 7.6rpg, 1.8apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 59.4%, 3PT: 23.6%, FT: 67.9%.
As well as being the conference's best-ever rebounder, Joseph Harris also holds Coastal Carolina's all-time records for rebounds, blocks, field-goal percentage and games played. He also ranks in the all-time top 10 for the college in another six statistical categories, including scoring and interceptions. Harris averaged 15 points and 10 rebounds a game in the last two seasons on his way to becoming the only player in Big South history to record more than 1,300 points and 1,100 points during a college career.


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


Maj Kovacevic pens deal with Nitra - by Eurobasket News

Maj Kovacevic (190-G-90) pens deal with Nitra for the upcoming season. The Slovenian player will debut abroad.
In 2011-2012 he played for Geoplin Slovan Ljubljana (Telemach League, starting five) and in 27 games averaged 9.0ppg, 1.6rpg, FGP: 61.1%, 3PT: 42.2%, FT: 87.1%. In 2010-2011 Maj played for Zlatorog Lasko (Telemach League) where he had 5.7ppg, 1.3rpg, FGP: 51.5%, 3PT: 43.5%, FT: 78.6%. Earlier it was announced that Zlatorog will not keep Maj Kovacevic and Slobodan Bozovic for the next season. The team decided not to exercise their options for 2011/12 season.
Maj Kovacevic joined Zlatorog last summer from Krka. He appeared 31 times in the league averaging 5.7 points and 1.3 rebounds. However, it seems that was not enough for Kovacevic to secure an extension.
Maj Kovacevic was also a member of the Slovenian U20 National Team -09-10. At the European Championships U20 in Rhodos (Greece) -09 his stats read 7.5ppg, 2.2rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 37.5%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 90.0%.


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  SOUTH KOREA   


2012 William Jones Cup: Anyang KGC hand Iran the second straight loss - by Eurobasket News

Iran-Anyang KGC 73:82

Anyang KGC hand Iran the second straight loss at the 2012 William Jones Cup. The South Korean team won 82:73 and tied both records at 5-2.
Iran started with 27-14 but could not keep the advantage. They nailed only 7 points in the second period and allowed the South Korean team to post 16. Moreover the latter produced 29-11 in the decisive third period and did not mind the late run from the opponents. Iran won the last period 28-23 but could reduce only to 9 points.
Lee Jung-Hyun (191-F-87) stepped up with 24 points to lead the winners to the 5th victory. Stutz Garrett (212-C-90, college: Wichita St.) nailed 17, while Pattillo Juan (197-F-88, college: W.Kentucky) posted 10. Samad BAHRAMI finished the game with 19 points in the losing effort and Hamed Afagh (190-SG-83) had 16. Asghar Kardoust (212-C-86) brought 15, while Mehdi KAMRANI nailed 12.

Iran: Samad BAHRAMI 19, Hamed Afagh 16, Asghar Kardoust 15, Mehdi KAMRANI 12
Anyang KGC: Lee Jung-Hyun 24, Stutz Garrett 17, Pattillo Juan 10


U18 Championship: South Korea hold off Iran to enter title game - by Eurobasket News

South Korea U18 - Iran U18 96:93

South Korea prevailed against Iran in the semifinal thriller tonight to enter the title game at U18 Asia Championship. The Korean team will take on China in the remake of 2010 Final. Choi Jun-Yong (200-F-94) exploded with 38 points to lead the winners.
Iran strongly entered the game. They grabbed control and rallied to a 25:15 lead after ten minutes. South Korea picked up the tempo in the second frame. They fired 27 points to narrow the deficit at 6-point mark at halftime 48:42. South Korea stayed red hot in the third quarter. They knocked down 26 points to trim the deficit to 3-point mark at the final break. Iran were up by five points with just over three minutes remaining. However South Korea scored six points in a row to take an 86:85 lead. Rahmati returned the lead for Iran however Kang and Heo made it 94:91 for South Korea. Heo then dropped a jumper and sealed the victory for South Korea. Gibeom Cheon (187-G-94) accounted for 13 points and 12 rebounds, while Jonghyun Lee (206-C-94) added 14 points and 11 rebounds in the victory. Vahid Dalirzahan (199-SF-95) answered with 20 points and 8 rebounds for Iran. Behnam Yakhchali (191-G-95) netted 19 points in the loss.

South Korea U18: Choi Jun-Yong 38, Jonghyun Lee 14+11 boards, Gibeom Cheon 13+12 boards
Iran U18: Vahid Dalirzahan 20, Behnam Yakhchali 19


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  SPAIN   


Barca Regal's new players make their debut - by Eurobasket News

Nathan Jawai (208-F/C-86, college: Midland CC), Marko Todorovic (210-C/F-92), lex Alejandro Abrines (198-F-93) and Ante Tomic (217-C-87) donned the Azulgrana strip for the first time in the team's first match of the pre-season

The game against Assignia Manresa served Xavi Pascual to test his squad's fitness level ahead of the 2012/13 season

Xavi Pascuals men hosted Assignia Manresa in the teams first match of the pre-season. The Azulgrana manager was able to make his first conclusions ahead of the 2012/13 season and test out Bara Regals new players.

The match, which was closed to the public, served both Jaume Ponsarnau and Xavi Pascual to test the fitness level of their respective squads. Xavi Pascual also didnt miss the chance to give all of his new players - Nathan Jawai, Marko Todorovic, Alejandro Abrines and Ante Tomic - minutes on the court.
Courtesy of: fcbarcelona.com


Brian Asbury joins Cajasol Sevilla - by Eurobasket News

Cajasol Sevilla bolstered their roster. They signed deal with Brian Asbury (200-SF-86, college: Miami, FL). The contract is meant for the next season. The forward spent the last season in Israel. He played for Elitzur Netanya. Brian Asbury notched 18.0 points, 7.6 boards, 1.7 assists and 1.4 steals per game in Premier League. He earned All-Israeli League Honourable Mention. Previously Brian Asbury had stints with Hapoel Tel-Aviv, Kiryat Tivon. Eurobasket.com named the forward All-Israeli National League Player of the Year in 2010 and 2011. Brian Asbury played for the USA selection at 2007 William Jones Cup.


Ognjen Kuzmic heads to Joventut - by Eurobasket News

Joventut strengthened their froncourt. Ognjen Kuzmic (215-C-90) will start the next season with the Badalona team. The centre was sent to Joventut on loan from Unicaja Malaga. Last season Ognjen Kuzmic played for Clinicas Rincon in LEB Gold. He tallied 10.4 points, 8.6 rebounds, 2.1 blocks per game. The centre earned Spanish LEB Gold All-Bosmans Team appearance. Previously Ognjen Kuzmic had stints with Korihait, Celik Zenica and Borac Nektar Banja Luka. He was named All-Bosnia and Herzegovina League Newcomer of the Year in 2011. He also made it into Bosnia and Herzegovina League All-Domestic Players Team. The centre joined Bosnia and Herzegovina National Team this year.


Lleida tab James Johnson, Juan Sutina and Djim Bandoumel - by Eurobasket News

Forca Lleida brought in three new players. The team announced James Johnson (182-G), Juan Sutina (192-G-90) and Djim Bandoumel (203-F).
James Johnson will start his pro career in Spain. He has just graduated from Quinnipiac University. The guard notched 16.5 points, 3.5 assists, 3.4 rebounds and 1.3 steals per game in his senior season. James Johnson made it into All-NEC 2nd Team. The guard was also named into NABC Division I All-District 18 2nd Team.
Juan Sutina spent the last season with Recinor Ferrol CB. The Argentinean guard averaged 14.9 points, 3.9 rebounds, 1.8 steals and 1.7 assists per game in EBA. He made it into Spanish EBA All-Imports Team. Juan Setina used to play for Lleida back in 2006/10 seasons.
Djim Bandoumel will also start his pro career with Lleida. The Nigerian forward has graduated from the University of Idaho this year. Djim Bandoumel averaged 8.7 points, 5.2 boards, 1.5 blocks per game in his senior season. He made it onto WAC All-Newcomers Team.


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


Carlos Strong inks deal with Kings - by Andreas Eriksson

Sodertalje Kings have decided to sign Carlos Strong (191-G-87, college: Boston U.) to a contract. Strong is a Puerto-Rican G/F that played at Boston U in the AEC in Division 1 NCAA during his collegiate career. The signing of Strong eliminates the chance of MVP Johnell Smith returning - at least for now - however, Strong is under a tryout contract, and if Sdertlje finds Smith available at the end of September they could possibly make a run at him again. The same situation was last year, when Smith opted to play in Ukraine, but was released and was then available for Sodertlje who to make room for him cut John Cantrell from the team.


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


2012 William Jones Cup: Jordan gain second win - by Eurobasket News

Jordan - Taiwan B 85:71

Jordan earned the second victory at William Jones Cup. They overcame Taiwan B National Team for 2-5 record. Taiwan B slipped at 0-8 record after the defeat.
Jordan jumped in front early in the game. They earned a 21:16 lead after ten minutes. Taiwan B denied the deficit in the second quarter. They established a 37:35 halftime lead. Jordan however erupted for 30 points in the third frame and secured a 10-point lead before the fourth frame. Jordan kept the hosts at bay throughout the final stanza and rolled to the victory at the end. Rasheim Wright (192-G-81, college: District of Col.) provided 34 points, 10 rebounds and 3 assists for the winners. Wesam Al-Sous (183-PG-83) added 22 points and 7 assists for the winning side. Yi-Hsiang Chou (193-F-91) accounted for 24 points and 7 rebounds for Taiwan. Chen Kuan-Chuan (195-F-93) had 12 points in the loss.

Jordan: Rasheim Wright 34+10 boards, Wesam Al-Sous 22, Mohammad Shaher 9
Taiwan B: Yi-Hsiang Chou 24, Chen Kuan-Chuan 12


U18 Championship: Taiwan destroy Saudi Arabia at the Classification Round - by Eurobasket News

Taiwan U18-Saudi Arabia U18 77:38

Taiwan destroy Saudi Arabia at the Classification Round for 5-8 places at the 22nd Asia U18 Championship. They had an easy 77:38 win and will play tomorrow for the 5th place. Saudi Arabia meanwhile will find out later the opponent for the 7th place.
Taiwan won the first period 14:10 , but Saudi Arabia stayed tough and replied with 13-12 in the second period. The second half however fully belonged to the winning side. Taiwan won the third period 28-7 and finished with 23-8 in the last stanza.
Fang Shih-En (199-C-94) top-scored for the winners with 17 points and 13 rebounds, while Chin Ming-Ching (194-F-94) posted 10. Lee Chia-Jui (200-C-94) notched 9 and Lin Kuan-Chun (184-G-95) delivered 8. Nassir Abojalas (195-F-94) answered with 17 points and 10 rebounds in defeat, while Mahmoud Ahmedkhalil (170-G-94), Khalid Sufyani (170-PG-94) and Safwan Mohammed (203-C-94) had 5 each.

Taiwan U18: Fang Shih-En 17+13 rebs, Chin Ming-Ching 10, Lee Chia-Jui 9, Lin Kuan-Chun 8
Saudi Arabia U18: Nassir Abojalas 17+10 rebs, Mahmoud Ahmedkhalil 5, Khalid Sufyani 5, Safwan Mohammed 5


2012 William Jones Cup: Philippines step closer to the title - by Eurobasket News

Philippines- Taiwan 76:72

Philippines step closer to the title of the 2012 William Jones Cup. The team improved to 6-1 record and will need to beat USA tomorrow to win it all! Tonight Philippines edged Taiwan 76:72 as the latter fell at 4-3 record.
Both teams scored 16 points each in the first period and then Philippines grabbed the lead at the halftime due to 21-13 in the second quarter. Taiwan erupted with 27-17 in the third quarter but could not win the game. Philippines needed a narrow 22-16 surge in the lasts stanza to seal the victory.
Marcus Douthit (210-C/F-80, agency: Edge Sports, college: Providence) and Jeffrei Chan (192-F-83) top-scored for the winners with 14 points. LA Tenorio (177-PG-84) and Ranidel DE OCAMPO followed them with 11 points each for the 6th win. Tseng Wen-Ting (203-F/C-84) answered with 18 points in the losing effort and Tsung-Hsien Chang (192-G-87) delivered 16. Mao Chia-En (195-F/G-82) posted 11 and Tien Lei (202-F-83) brought 9.

Philippines: Marcus Douthit 14+12 rebs, Jeffrei Chan 14, LA Tenorio 11, Ranidel DE OCAMPO 11
Taiwan: Tseng Wen-Ting 18, Tsung-Hsien Chang 16, Mao Chia-En 11, Tien Lei 9


2012 Jones Cup Men Day 8 results - by Chris Wang

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

Lebanon 70-67 UPG (US)
http://2012wjc.basketball-tpe.org/files/902-1008-3075-10000.php
Philippines 76-72 Taiwan
http://2012wjc.basketball-tpe.org/files/902-1008-3044-10000.php
KGC (Korea) 82-73 Iran
http://2012wjc.basketball-tpe.org/files/902-1008-3059-10000.php
Jordan 85-71 Taiwan B
http://2012wjc.basketball-tpe.org/files/902-1008-3071-10000.php

Standings:
Philippines 6-1
UPG (US) 5-2
Iran 5-2
KGC (South Korea) 5-2
Taiwan 4-3
Lebanon 3-4
Japan 2-5
Jordan 2-5
Taiwan B 0-8


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


Banvit keep Kenan Bajramovic - by Eurobasket News

Banvit keep Kenan Bajramovic (205-C-81) for the next season. The experienced Bosnian re-signed a deal with Banvit. In 2011-2012 he averaged 9.3ppg, 4.9rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 66.7%, 3PT: 32.3%, FT: 59.3% in EuroCup and in Turkish League had 11.0ppg, 4.7rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 59.5%, 3PT: 38.7%, FT: 70.8%.
Earlier Bajramovic played for Lietuvos Rytas where he had 11.4 ppg, 5.2 rpg and 1.4 apg in 14 Euroleague games last season. In LKL, Bajramovic added 12.8 ppg, 4.1 rpg and 1.7 apg. Rytas also competed in VTB United league, where Bajramovic collected 12.1 ppg and 3.2 rpg for 9 games. The Bosnian had even better season with Rytas in 2009/10. They won the Lithuanian title and Cup. Bajramovic started that season with ALBA Berlin and moved to Rytas in January. He was their member also in 2007/08. Kenan Bajramovic played for Turk Telekom in 2008/09 season. He also has experience from Kyiv, Azovmash, Bosna Sarajevo and Celik Zenica. He is active member of the Bosnian NT since 2001. Kenan Bajramovic was Eurobasket.com All-Lithuanian LKL Import Player of the Year -11.



Turk Telekom Ankara brings in Dee Brown and Drago Pasalic - by Eurobasket News

Turk Telekom Ankara brings in Dee Brown (185-PG-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Illinois) and Drago Pasalic (208-C/F-84) for the next season. The Turkish team announced two loud signings.
Ex NBAer Dee Brown played last season for Banca Tercas Teramo (Italy-SerieA, starting five) and averaged 11.8ppg, 3.3rpg, 3.3apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 46.1%, 3PT: 30.7%, FT: 73.3%. Early in 2010-2011 he started for Dallas Mavericks (NBA), then moved to Qingdao Double Star (China-CBA) and showed 22.2ppg, 3.8rpg, 4.8apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 53.8%, 3PT: 32.2%, FT: 79.4%. In April signed at Quebradillas Pirates (Puerto Rico-BSN, starting five) and had 16.5ppg, 3.4rpg, 5.9apg, FGP: 55.4%, 3PT: 48.4%, FT: 78.9%.

Drago Pasalic is a Croatian Big Man. In 2010-2011 he started for KK Cibona VIP Zagreb (A1, starting five) and averaged 9.1ppg, 4.7rpg, FGP: 52.5%, 3PT: 23.5%, FT: 83.3% in EuroLeague. In Dec.'10 moved to Azovmash Mariupol (Ukraine-Superleague, starting five) and had 9.6ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 60.3%, 3PT: 32.1%, FT: 70.2% in the Ukrainian League, while in VTB League his stats read 8.9ppg, 3.6rpg, FGP: 51.7%, 3PT: 50.0%, FT: 53.3%.In 2011-2012 moved to Helios Domzale (Slovenia-Telemach League, starting five) and in Adriatic League had high 14.0ppg, 6.2rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 56.9%, 3PT: 34.7%, FT: 77.6%. In Slovenian League his stats read 12.7ppg, 5.5rpg, FGP: 65.2%, 3PT: 30.0%, FT: 66.7%.


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


2012 William Jones Cup: Lebanon hold off USA for third victory - by Eurobasket News

Lebanon - USA 70:67

Lebanon clinched the third victory at William Jones Cup. They held off USA selection to improve at 3-4 record. The North American team slipped at 5-2 record. Elie Estephane (193-G-86, college: Alabama So. CC) accounted for 27 points for Lebanon.
Lebanon strongly entered the game. They outscored their opponents 21:10 in the opening quarter. Lebanon stayed in charge throughout the second quarter. They ensured a 42:26 halftime lead. USA started to wake up in the second half. They cut the deficit at 12-point mark before the fourth frame. USA held their opponents to just 9 points in the final stanza but came up just short of victory at the end. Jarrid Famous (209-C/F-88, college: S.Florida) provided 17 points and 12 rebounds for Lebanon. Hussein El Khatib and Ali Kanaan (207-C/F-85, college: Mass.-Lowell) had 8 points each for the winners. Jermaine Barnes (194-G/F-82, agency: Gamble Sports Management, college: Point, GA) and Jermaine Dearman (202-F/C-80, agency: Top Notch Sports, college: S.Illinois) chipped in 12 points apiece in the loss.

Lebanon: Elie Estephane 27, Jarrid Famous 17+12 boards, Hussein El Khatib 8, Ali Kanaan 8
USA: Jermaine Barnes 12, Jermaine Dearman 12


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


DniproAzot tab Ronald Davis - by Eurobasket News

DniproAzot brought in the fifth import player. They agreed on terms of contract with Ronald Davis (190-G-82, college: Wisc.-Milwaukee). The guard started the previous season in Argentina. He played for San Martin Corrientes. Ronald Davis averaged 8.8 points, 1.5 assists, 1.3 rebounds and 2.6 steals per game in LigaA. Later Ronald Davis moved to Greece. The guard joined Aris Thessaloniki. Ronald Davis notched 9.7 points, 2.8 rebounds, 1.7 assists and 1.4 steals per game in A1 League. In EuroCup Ronald Davis delivered 12.1 points, 3.7 rebounds, 1.2 assists and 1.2 steals per appearance. Previously Ronald Davis had stints with Scafati Basket, Umana Reyer Venezia, Carmatic Pistoia, Givat Shmuel. Eurobasket.com named the guard into All-Italian LegaDue 3rd Team in 2011.


BC Donetsk bring in D'Or Fischer - by Eurobasket News

BC Donetsk bolstered their frontcourt. They have reportedly agreed on terms of contract with D'or Fischer (211-C-81, college: W.Virginia).. The centre was targeted by several big European teams but BC Donetsk won the battle. D'or Fischer spent the previous season in Spain. He played for Bilbao Basket. He tallied 7.9 points, 5.9 rebounds, 1.6 assists and 1.1 blocks per game in Euroleague. In ACB D'or Fischer notched 8.5 points, 5.5 boards, 1.3 assists, 1.2 steals and 1.9 blocks per appearance. Eurobasket.com named the centre All-Euroleague Import Player of the Year. He was also trumped All-Spanish ACB Defensive Player of the Year. Previously D'or Fischer had stints with Real Madrid, Maccabi Tel-Aviv, Euphone Bree, Oldenburg, Anwil and Roanoke Dazzle. Eurobasket.com named the player All-Israeli League Centre of the Year in 2009.


Cherkasy confirm Dante Swanson - by Eurobasket News

Cherkasy have officially announced the signing of Dante Swanson (178-PG-81, college: Tulsa). He will fill in the spot that became available after Jeremy Wise (191-G-86, agency: Strategic Sports, college: S.Mississippi) had not passed the medical. Dante Swanson is not new to Ukraine. The guard spent the last two seasons with Hoverla. Last season Dante Swanson tallied 9.0 points, 3.2 rebounds, 4.7 assists per EuroChallenge game. In Superleague the guard delivered 10.4 points, 4.5 assists, 3.4 boards and 1.4 steals per appearance. Previously Dante Swanson had stints with AZS Koszalin, Anwil Wloclawek, Slask Wroclaw and Astoria Bydgoszcz. He participated at Polish League All-Star Games in 2004 and 2006. The guard made it into Polish League All-Imports Team in 2010. In 2006 Dante Swanson earned All-Polish League Honourable Mention.
Dante Swanson is expected to join Cherkasy in Bulgaria where they are holding their training camp at the moment.


Dnipro invite Valdas Vasylius and Simas Galdikas for try-outs - by Eurobasket News

Dnipro landed two Lithuanian players for try-outs. Valdas Vasylius (203-F-83, college: ODU) and Simas Galdikas (203-F-87) joined the team at the training camp in Lithuania.
Valdas Vasylius spent the last season with Siauliai. The forward notched 12.1 points, 4.9 rebounds, 1.3 assists and 1.0 steal per game in LKL. In Baltic League Valdas Vasylius tallied 13.7 points, 5.3 rebounds, 1.5 assists and 1.1 steals per appearance. He participated at LKL All-Star Game. Valdas Vasylius made it into All-Lithuanian LKL 2nd Team. He was also named All-Baltic European Player of the Year.
Simas Galdikas played for Neptunas since 2009. Last season the forward averaged 9.0 points and 7.1 rebounds per game in Baltic League. In LKL he delivered 6.9 points and 3.1 rebounds per appearance.
Both players appeared on court in the first exhibition game of Dnipro at the training camp. Dnipro lost to Neptunas however Valdas Vasylius exploded with 24 points and 9 rebounds for the Ukrainian team.


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


Robinson Inks Deal With Rocks - by Paul Nilsen

Glasgow Rocks have added some extra length and talent to their backcourt with the acquisition of 6'4" guard, Donald Robinson (193-F, college: W.Virginia Tech). Robinson will be coming off a successful 2011/12 season with West Virginia Tech, where he averaged 15ppg and 2.5 apg.

The 6'4" athletic guard will have big shoes to fill as he effectively replaces last season's stand out player Mychal Green, who recently signed with AS SOLEUVRE in Luxemburg. Green will be sorely missed, but Coach Davis is confident that Robinson will be a worthy adversary in the absence of Green.

Coach Davis had this to say: "I spotted Donald in a showcase in Vegas where he really stood out on all dimensions. He is long and very athletic for his position and can really put the ball in the basket. I think he has the versatility to play 3 positions on the floor if need be with the shooting guard his primary position. I think he will definitely do well in the league once he gets used to the style of play just as any other newcomer to the league."

With Robinson now confirmed for the 2012/13 season the Rocks are very close to having a full roster with only a few spots remaining to fill. These positions will be announced in the coming days with the squad due to begin their official pre-season training on the 3rd September. This season should be a memorable one for the Glasgow based side as they get ready to make the move to their new Home in the East End of Glasgow at the Brand New Commonwealth Arena!

Glasgow Rocks General Manager, Daniel Bajwoluk, is excited about the upcoming season and all that it could bring; "We believe we have a very talented and capable squad that will do Glasgow proud both on and off the court this season. Our scheduled move to the Brand New Commonwealth Arena in the East End has really given us all something to look forward to and everyone associated with the club is expecting 2012/13 to be a very memorable season for us".

Rocks fans are reminded that they will get their first glimpse of the new look team on September 9th when the Glasgow Rocks host the USA Select Squad at the Kelvin Hall ISA, tip-off @ 5:00pm. Tickets for this event are now online at www.glasgowrocks.co.uk.

The Rocks first Official Home BBL Fixture will take place on the 7th October at the Brand New Commonwealth Arena @ 5:00pm when they take on the reigning BBL Champions, Newcastle Eagles.


*****************************************************
  VENEZUELA   

Standings - LNB

LNB Standings
Central-East
 1. Guacharos 2-1 
 2. Tiburones 1-0 
 3. Estudiantes 1-2 
 4. Rojos de Sucre 0-1 
 5. Atleticos UCV 0-3 
Central-West
 1. Aduaneros 3-0 
 2. Bravos 3-0 
 3. Cent.Apure 3-0 
 4. Generales 0-3 
 5. Lanc.Cojedes 0-3 

Regular Season: Round 3

Aug. 24: Aduaneros - Generales 98-89
Aug. 24: Rojos de Sucre - Guacharos 89-105
Aug. 24: Lanc.Cojedes - Bravos 65-69
Aug. 24: Atleticos UCV - Tiburones 61-102
Aug. 24: Cent.Apure - Estudiantes 100-94
Aug. 25: Lanc.Cojedes - Bravos
Aug. 25: Aduaneros - Generales
Aug. 25: Atleticos UCV - Tiburones
Aug. 25: Rojos de Sucre - Guacharos
Aug. 25: Cent.Apure - Estudiantes



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

Standings

Standings
1. Philippines6-1
2. USA5-2
3. Iran5-2
4. S.Korea5-2
5. Taiwan4-3
6. Lebanon3-4
7. Jordan2-5
8. Japan2-5
9. Taiwan B0-8

Preliminary Round: Round 8

Aug. 25: PHI - TAI 76-72
Aug. 25: IRI - KOR 73-82
Aug. 25: TAB - JOR 71-85
Aug. 25: LEB - USA 70-67

Preliminary Round: Round 9

Aug. 26: JOR - IRI
Aug. 26: JPN - LEB
Aug. 26: USA - PHI
Aug. 26: TAI - KOR


2012 Jones Cup Men Day 8 results - by Chris Wang

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

Lebanon 70-67 UPG (US)
http://2012wjc.basketball-tpe.org/files/902-1008-3075-10000.php
Philippines 76-72 Taiwan
http://2012wjc.basketball-tpe.org/files/902-1008-3044-10000.php
KGC (Korea) 82-73 Iran
http://2012wjc.basketball-tpe.org/files/902-1008-3059-10000.php
Jordan 85-71 Taiwan B
http://2012wjc.basketball-tpe.org/files/902-1008-3071-10000.php

Standings:
Philippines 6-1
UPG (US) 5-2
Iran 5-2
KGC (South Korea) 5-2
Taiwan 4-3
Lebanon 3-4
Japan 2-5
Jordan 2-5
Taiwan B 0-8



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

Women News


U17 USA extends winning streak in Amsterdam, advances to Semifinals - by Eurobasket News

U17 USA - U17 AUSTRALIA 89-68

USA handed 89-68 loss to Australia extending its winning streak to six at FIBA U19 World Championship in Amsterdam. Australia had better beginning of this game, but all after that belonged to USA. The Americans will meet Canada in the Semifinals. At the other side, Australia will continue in Classification Round from 5th to 8th place. Their first rival will be Holland. Diamond Deshields (6'1''-SF-95) had 19 points and 5 rebounds in this victory. Mercedes Russell (6'5''-C-95) shined with 18 points and 14 rebs (MVP, valuation 28), while Linnae Harper (5'7''-SG-95) added 13 points and 11 rebs. In defeat, Tiana Mangakahia (5'5''-PG-95) top-scored with 21 points and Abigail Wehrung (5'10''-G-95) added 19 pts, plus 5 rebs. Alicia Froling (6'2''-PF-96) collected 8 pts and 6 rebs. Quarters: 19-24, 22-13, 24-14, 24-17. Championship continues today.

USA: Diamond Deshields 19+5 boards, Mercedes Russell 18+14 boards, Linnae Harper 13+11 boards
Australia: Tiana Mangakahia 21, Abigail Wehrung 19+5 boards, Alicia Froling 8+6 boards


Australia outguns host of FIBA U17 World Championship - by Eurobasket News

U17 HOLLAND - U17 AUSTRALIA 58-82

Australia had an easy job against Holland today in Amsterdam. The host of FIBA U17 World Championship faced with 24-point loss, 58-82. It means that Australia will meet Italy tomorrow in the battle for the fifth place at this event. Holland will play against Belgium for position No.7. Tiana Mangakahia (165-PG-95) led the winners with 18 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists, while Vanessa Panousis (170-PG-95) added 17 points and 5 boards. Keely Froling (184-F-96) followed them with 13 points and 8 rebs. The hosts got 14 points (6 rebs) from Lisanne de Jonge (180-SF-95) and 13 pts from Klaziena Guijt (172-SG-95). Janis Ndiba (180-PF-97) collected 8 points and 7 boards. Quarters: 15-11, 23-19, 23-13, 21-15. Sunday is the last day of the championship in Amsterdam.

Holland: Lisanne de Jonge 14+6 boards, Klaziena Guijt 13, Janis Ndiba 8+7 boards
Australia: Tiana Mangakahia 18+6 boards+5 as, Vanessa Panousis 17+5 boards, Keely Froling 13+8 boards


SBL: Slammers, Flames edge closer to history - by Eurobasket News

The first leg of the best of three women's State Basketball League semi-finals is over and the home teams prevailed with the Rockingham Flames and the South West Slammers rising to victory.

The Flames are one step closer to making club history after taking down minor premiers the Wanneroo Wolves 77-66 on Friday night in front of a large home crowd.

Rockingham led convincingly throughout the first half of the game and entered the last break with a 17 point lead thanks to the inside presence of Emma Cannon and Kaye Tucker.

Wanneroo fought hard in the fourth and closed the gap to just five points with 1:23 remaining, however the Flames steadied and edged closer to their clubs first grand final appearance.

Emma Cannon caused headaches for the Wolves finishing with 33 points and 19 rebounds, she was supported by Kaye Tucker who finished with 17 points and ten rebounds.

Shani Amos had a strong game for the Wolves finishing with 15 points and six rebounds, while Nikita-Lee Martin (184-G-88) chipped in with 11 points of her own.

The Wolves struggled away from home only making eight per cent of their three point attempts and 37% of shots from the field, an area they will have to improve at home if they are to take the series.

On Saturday night the South West Slammers took down the Willetton Tigers 79-55 in front of their home crowd, edging closer to their first grand final appearance.

The Slammers dominated the defending champions, extending their lead at every break on the back of strong shooting from the field (45%) and beyond the three point line (43%).

Kim Sitzmann (164-G-88, college: UALR) (23 points, ten rebounds) and Valerie Ogoke (14 points, ten rebounds) both finished with double-double performances for the Slammers.

Slammers junior Bianca Donovan rose to the challenge to finish with 12 points and former Willetton championship centre Zoe Harper (191-C-88, college: Minnesota) had 11 points and four rebounds for the home side.

Emma Lobb (188-F-90) stepped up to the challenge for the Tigers with 16 points, however Willetton will have to shoot better than 33% from the field and 0/12 from beyond the arc if they are to move into their fifth straight grand final.

The Kickz101 Womens State Basketball League Grand Final is on Friday 31 August at the WA Basketball Centre, tickets are on sale now through Ticketmaster.
Courtesy of: http://www.sbl.asn.au/


SBL: Wolves, Tigers out to level series - by Eurobasket News

Rockingham Flames and South West Slammers will both be on a mission to make their clubs first grand final when their two respective semi-final series conclude this weekend.

However it wont be easy with both teams having to win at least one game away from home with Wanneroo Wolves and Willetton Tigers having the home court advantage in their series.

The Flames have a 1-0 lead in their series against the Wanneroo Wolves after a 77-66 win in Rockingham last weekend, the series now transfers to the Joondalup Basketball Stadium on Friday night for game two.

Wanneroo will be hoping that familiar surrounds will improve their shooting after making just 1/12 from outside the three-point line last weekend and 36% from the field.

Their biggest concern however will be stopping Emma Cannon (188-F, college: Cent.Florida) who was on fire in game one with a massive 33 points and 19 rebounds, while her partner in crime Kaye Tucker will also need to be slowed down.

If the Wolves are victorious the teams will play again on Saturday at Joondalup to decide who will move to the grand final on Friday 31 August at the WA Basketball Centre.

The Slammers are also 1-0 up in their series after defeating the defending champions Willetton Tigers 79-55 last Saturday night in Eaton.

South West dominated their home game and will be looking for a repeat performance from star Kim Sitzmann (164-G-88, college: UALR) after her 23 points and ten rebounds in last weekends game.

The Tigers will be looking to Jasmine Hooper (average of 19 points a game) to step up to the challenge in front of the home crowd along with fellow WNBL players Melissa Marsh and Courtney Hargreaves.

If the Tigers can level the series in game two, the third and deciding game will be held on Saturday at Willetton to determine who will advance.
Courtesy of: http://www.sbl.asn.au/


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


Austrian Kata Takacs stays with BG '89 Avines - by Eurobasket News

Austrian Kata Takacs (184-F-91) stays with BG '89 Avines for the next season. The national team player will enter her second season in Germany.
In 2008-2009 she appeared for BK Jocher's Duchess Klosterneuburg (AWBL, starting five). In Austria she became Austrian Cup Finalist -11, Eurobasket.com All-Austrian AWBL 1st Team -11, Austrian AWBL Regular Season Runner-Up -11 and reached Austrian AWBL Finals -11.
After another 2 seasons with the team she went to BG '89 Avines Hurricanes Rotenburg (Germany-DBBL). In 19 games last season her stats read 1.6ppg, 1.7rpg.
Last year Kata Takacs was a member of the Austrian U20 National Team. At the European Championships U20 Division B in Ohrid (FYR Macedonia) her stats read 7.0ppg, 5.1rpg, 2.0apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 29.3%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 67.9%. Earlier she participated at the European Championships U20 Division B in Kavadarci (FYR Macedonia). In 6 games her stats read 6.2ppg, 3.2rpg, 2.0spg, FGP: 34.5%, 3PT: 20.0%, FT: 77.8%.


*****************************************************
  BELARUS   


U20 France blasts U20 Belarus in Debrecen, 71-35 - by Eurobasket News

U20 FRANCE - U20 BELARUS 71-35

France had an easy job against Belarus today at U20 EuroBasket in Debrecen. France celebrated huge 71-35 win and will meet Sweden tomorrow in the game for fifth place. Belarus will play against Ukraine and the winner of that game will end as No.7 at this event. France took control on its rival from the beginning and never looked back. Quarters: 20-10, 19-9, 13-11, 19-5. Alice Nayo (186-C-93) (7 rebs) and Sara Chevaugeon (177-G-93) scored 12 points each for the winners. Jodie Cornelie (193-F-93) had double-double of 10 points and 10 rebounds. In Belarus, Maryia Rashchenia (185-PF-92) and Ksenija Voishal (182-F-94) were the leading players with 7 points apiece. Maryia Papova (186-PF-94) had 6 points and 8 boards. Championship will end tomorrow.

France: Alice Nayo 12+7 boards, Sara Chevaugeon 12, Jodie Cornelie 10+10 boards
Belarus: Maryia Rashchenia 7, Ksenija Voishal 7, Maryia Papova 6+8 boards


Turkey advances to Semifinals of U20 EuroBasket in Debrecen - by Eurobasket News

U20 TURKEY - U20 BELARUS 66-61

Turkey extended its winning streak at U20 EuroBasket in Debrecen. They downed Belarus 66-61 in the Quarterfinals and booked a spot for the Semis. There, Turkey will meet Spain. Ayse Cora (175-G/F-93) (5 rebs) and Pelin Bilgic (173-G-94) led the winners with 12 points each. Merve Aydin (174-PG-94) followed them with 10 points and 7 rebs. In Belarus, Maryia Papova (186-PF-94) (7 rebs) and Aliaksandra Musatava (174-SG-92) scored 16 points apiece, and Maryia Filonchyk (187-PF-92) posted 15 points in this defeat. Turkey had 48-42 lead after 30 minutes, but Belarus closed the gap to 3 pts soon after that. Ayse Cora and her teammates shined when it mattered most and stayed in charge for rest of the game. Championship continues today. As mentioned above, Turkey will meet Spain, while Belarus will play against France. It will be the first game of the Classification Round from 5th-8th place.

Turkey: Ayse Cora 12+5 boards, Pelin Bilgic 12, Merve Aydin 10+7 boards
Belarus: Maryia Papova 16+7 boards, Aliaksandra Musatava 16, Maryia Filonchyk 15


*****************************************************
  BELGIUM   


U20 Israel celebrates third win in Klatovy - by Eurobasket News

U20 BELGIUM - U20 ISRAEL 65-68

Israel outplayed Belgium 68-65 in Day 8 of U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. Israel played all of its 8 games at this event registering 3-5 record. They will finish as No.6 or No.7, depends on Belgium's game against Hungary tomorrow. Belgium has 3-4 score now. Israel shined in the last ten minutes of the game to take the victory in this meeting. Quarters: 18-12, 13-15, 21-20, 13-21. Thea Lemberger (175-G-92) stepped up for the winners with 23 points and 7 rebounds. May Dayan (170-PG-94) had 13 points and 5 rebs, while Inbar Lev Ron (174-SG-92) and Nof Kedem (170-SG-94) helped with 9 points each. In defeat, Emmanuella Mayombo (170-SG-92, agency: LBM Management) was much better than the others with 26 points. Marieke Versavel (168-PG-92) and Caroline Bourlioux (182-C-92) (5 rebs) posted 8 and 7 pts respectively. Sunday is the last day of the competition in Klatovy.

Belgium: Emmanuella Mayombo 26, Marieke Versavel 8, Caroline Bourlioux 7+5 boards
Israel: Thea Lemberger 23+7 boards, May Dayan 13+5 boards, Inbar Lev Ron 9, Nof Kedem 9


Elisa Penna, U17 Italy too strong for U17 Belgium in Amsterdam - by Eurobasket News

U17 ITALY - U17 BELGIUM 63-55

Italy was better than Belgium today in Amsterdam, 63-55. It was the first game of Classification Round from 5th-8th place at FIBA U17 World Championship. In order to take position No.5 Italy will have to beat Australia tomorrow. Belgium will play against Holland for seventh place. Marzia Tagliamento (181-PF-96) top-scored in Italy with 18 points, while Elisa Penna (186-SG-95) added one point less, plus she pulled down 10 rebounds. Maria Barberis (175-SF-95) netted 11 pts in this victory. In Belgium, Hind Ben Abdelkader (170-PG-95) had 24 points and 9 rebounds, but again with poor shot percentage (3//10 FG2, 5/22 3-pts). Julie Allemand (173-PG-96) stopped to 10 points and 5 rebounds. Quarters: 9-8, 17-17, 14-11, 23-19. Championship will end tomorrow. USA will have a chance to defend the title.

Italy: Marzia Tagliamento 18, Elisa Penna 17+10 boards, Maria Barberis 11
Belgium: Hind Ben Abdelkader 24+9 boards, Julie Allemand 10+5 boards


U17 Japan advances to Semifinals in Amsterdam - by Eurobasket News

U17 JAPAN - U17 BELGIUM 70-64

Japan is in the Semifinals of FIBA U17 World Championship in Amsterdam. They outplayed Belgium 70-64 in the QFinals thanks to impressive first half of the game. Japan made 28-18 in the first ten minutes and jumped to plus 16 at the halftime. Belgium drastically improved after the breather, but still Japan was strong enough to keep the lead and to celebrate at the end. Quarters: 28-18, 14-8, 13-20, 15-18. Ai Yamada (167-SG-95) scored 21 points in victory and Yunika Nakamura (177-PF-95) added 19 pts. Evelyn Mawuli (180-C-95) followed them with 14 points and 16 rebs. In defeat, Hind Ben Abdelkader (170-PG-95) was better than the others with 19 points, but she made only 3 of 14 attempts from behind the arc. Laeticia Mpoyi (179-C-96) (8 rebs) and Anneleen De Baets (157-PG-95) (7 rebs) posted 11 and 10 pts respectively. Japan will meet Spain in the Semifinals. Belgium will continue in Classification Round from 5th-8th place.

Japan: Ai Yamada 21, Yunika Nakamura 19, Evelyn Mawuli 14+16 boards
Belgium: Hind Ben Abdelkader 19, Laeticia Mpoyi 11+8 boards, Anneleen De Baets 10+7 boards


*****************************************************
  BRAZIL   


U17 Mali celebrates first win in Amsterdam - by Eurobasket News

U17 BRAZIL - U17 MALI 51-58

Mali was better than Brazil on Friday 58-51. It was the first game of the Classification Round from 9th-12th place at FIBA U19 World Championship in Amsterdam. Mali will meet South Korea today and the winner of that game will end as No.9 at this event. At the other side, Brazil will play against Turkey. The winner of that meeting will avoid last place in Amsterdam. Both games will be played today. Mali shined in the last quarter to beat Brazil: 13-12, 15-8, 12-21, 18-10. Mariam Maiga (167-SG-96) led Mali with 18 points and Djeneba N'Diaye (165-PG-97) added 10 points. Aissata Fomba (175-SG-95) followed them with 9 points and 10 rebs. In Brazil, Izabella Sangalli (184-SF-95) had double-double of 11 points and 10 rebs. Monique Soares (187-PF-97) impressed with 10 pts and 17 boards (MVP, valuation 25), while Carla Lucchini (165-PG-95) added 10 pts and 9 boards. Both teams will end their participation in Amsterdam today.

Brazil: Izabella Sangalli 11+10 boards, Monique Soares 10+17 boards, Carla Lucchini 10+9 boards
Mali: Mariam Maiga 18, Djeneba N'Diaye 10, Aissata Fomba 9+10 boards


U17 Brazil defeats U17 Turkey 66-61 to avoid last place in Amsterdam - by Eurobasket News

U17 TURKEY - U17 BRAZIL 61-66

It was a matchup for 11th place at FIBA U17 World Championship in Amsterdam. Brazil celebrated 66-61 victory thanks to well played last ten minutes of the game. It means that Brazil ended as No.11, while Turkey is the last ranked team at this event. Carla Lucchini (165-PG-95) scored 18 points for the winners and Daphner Pezavento (190-C-95) helped with double-double of 14 points and 10 rebounds. Izabella Sangalli (184-SF-95) followed them with 13 points and 8 boards. In the loosing squad, Melis Gulcan (185-SF-96) and Sinem Atas (182-PF-95) had 18 points and 6 rebounds each. Hulya Coklar (188-C-95) stopped to 10 points and 9 rebs. Turkey had 2-point lead after 30 minutes of play, but Brazil shined when it mattered most and closed this game with 21-14 for 66-61 win at the end. Turkey finished as the only winless team in Amsterdam (0-7). Both teams already finished participation at this event, which will officially end tomorrow.

Turkey: Melis Gulcan 18+6 boards, Sinem Atas 18+6 boards, Hulya Coklar 10+9 boards
Brazil: Carla Lucchini 18, Daphner Pezavento 14+10 boards, Izabella Sangalli 13+8 boards


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


First win for Bulgaria at U20 EuroBasket Division B - by Eurobasket News

U20 SWITZERLAND - U20 BULGARIA 38-69

Bulgaria finally registered first victory at U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. They blasted Switzerland 69-38 and both teams have 1-6 record now. Thanks to this win Bulgaria will most likely avoid last place at this event, but everything will be clear tomorrow. Bulgaria exploded in the second half to take the comfortable win in this meeting (9-15, 6-8, 9-22, 14-24). Viktoriya Stoycheva (171-PG-92) had 12 points and 5 rebounds in victory and Kristina Peychinova (176-SG-94) added 11 pts. Mariya Svetoslavova (179-F/G-93) added 10 points and 7 boards. In Switzerland, Vanessa Dorestant (170-G-92) was better than the others with 11 points. Alix Rieder (168-PG-93) stopped to 8 pts in this loss. In the last day of the competition Bulgaria will meet Germany. Switzerland will take on Romania.

Switzerland: Vanessa Dorestant 11, Alix Rieder 8
Bulgaria: Viktoriya Stoycheva 12+5 boards, Kristina Peychinova 11, Mariya Svetoslavova 10+7 boards


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

U20 BULGARIA - U20 ROMANIA 82-87 OT

Romania had to work very hard to beat Bulgaria in Day Seven of U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. It was a 87-82 OT win for Romania, who jumped to 4-3 record. At the other side, Bulgaria dropped to 0-6. Bulgaria was up by 11 at the halftime, but Romania improved after the breather and later made 12-7 in OT to take the victory in this meeting. Gabriela Cursaru (169-PG-92) shined for the winners with 24 points and 6 rebounds. Dora Ardelean (186-PF-94) with 19 points and 5 rebs, while Sonia Ursu (175-SG-93) added 16 pts, 8 rebs and 5 assists. In defeat, Gabriela Kostova (192-C-94) was better than the others with 22 points and 14 rebounds. Iva Kostova (178-SG-94) had 16 points and 9 rebs, while Mariya Svetoslavova (179-F/G-93) stopped to 13 pts. Romania will have a dayoff today. Bulgaria will meet Switzerland.

Bulgaria: Gabriela Kostova 22+14 boards, Iva Kostova 16+9 boards, Mariya Svetoslavova 13
Romania: Gabriela Cursaru 24+6 boards, Dora Ardelean 19+5 boards, Sonia Ursu 16+8 boards+5 as


*****************************************************
  CANADA   


U17 Canada grabs 56-55 thriller win over U17 Holland, heads to Semis - by Eurobasket News

U17 HOLLAND - U17 CANADA 55-56

Canada grabbed 56-55 thriller win over Holland in the Quarterfinals of FIBA U17 World Championship in Amsterdam. In the Semis, Canada will meet defending champion USA. It will be a North American derby. At the other side, the host of this event will fight for the fifth place. None of the teams had a 3 or more possession lead. Netherlands attempted a game winning shot in the last second of regulation, but it fell short. Kia Nurse (177-PG-96) scored 18 points for the winners, while Emma Wolfram (193-C-95) added 13 points and 6 rebounds. Shaylisha Colley (172-PG-96) also posted 13 pts in this meeting. In Holland, Lisanne de Jonge (180-SF-95) top-scored with 13 points. Britt Zappeij (182-PF-95) and Laura Cornelius (173-PG-96) scored 8 points each and they also had 8 and 5 rebounds respectively. Championship continues today. Holland will play against Australia.

Holland: Lisanne de Jonge 13, Britt Zappeij 8+8 boards, Laura Cornelius 8+5 boards
Canada: Kia Nurse 18, Emma Wolfram 13+6 boards, Shaylisha Colley 13


U17 USA heads to gold medal game in Amsterdam - by Eurobasket News

U17 CANADA - U17 USA 59-84

USA advanced to title game at FIBA U17 World Championship in Amsterdam. They handed 84-59 loss to Canada today in the Semis. USA is the defending champion and will meet Japan or Spain in the big final (will be known later tonight). Canada will play for bronze medal at this event. USA made 6-point lead in the first quarter and jumped to plus 9 at the halftime. The defending champ limited its rival to just 8 points for the entire Q3, while scoring 18 at the other side for 19-point lead with one period to go. Canada simply was not able to reply and USA had no troubles to celebrate comfortable victory. Linnae Harper (170-SG-95) had 11 points and 8 rebounds for the Americans. Oderah Chidom (190-PF-95) (7 rebs) and Kaela Davis (185-G/F-95) netted 10 points each. Each of USA players scored at least 2 pts in this meeting. Canada got 14 points from Kia Nurse (177-PG-96) and Emma Wolfram (193-C-95). Emily Potter (195-C-95) stopped to one point less and 6 rebounds. Sunday is the last day of the competition in Amsterdam.

Canada: Kia Nurse 14, Emma Wolfram 14, Emily Potter 13+6 boards
USA: Linnae Harper 11+8 boards, Oderah Chidom 10+7 boards, Kaela Davis 10


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

Standings - Women

A1 Standings
 1. Agram ZG 0-0 
 2. Croatia 2006 0-0 
 3. Dubrava 0-0 
 4. Gospic 0-0 
 5. Jolly 0-0 
 6. Medvescak 0-0 
 7. Novi Zagreb 0-0 
 8. Pleter 0-0 
 9. Rockwool Pula 0-0 
 10. Studenec Omis 0-0 
 11. Zadar 0-0 



*****************************************************
  CZECH REPUBLIC   


U20 Czech Republic celebrates fourth win in Klatovy - by Eurobasket News

U20 CZECH REPUBLIC - U20 SWITZERLAND 71-42

Czech Republic jumped to 4-2 record in Klatovy. They blasted Switzerland in Day Seven of U20 EuroBasket Division B sharing the third place with Germany. At the other side, Switzerland dropped to 1-5. Czech Republic took control on its rival from the very beginning and never looked back. Quarters: 29-14, 11-10, 12-6, 19-12. Dominika Pohunkova (176-G-94) was their best player with 20 points. Barbora Kasparkova (181-F/C-92) had 13 points and 10 rebs, while Pamela-Therese Effangova (175-SF-93) added 8 pts. In defeat, Melissa Favre (184-PF-92) collected 8 points and 5 rebs. Nadege Clement (184-C-93) (6 rebs) and Ljubica Cutunic (186-SF-94) (5 rebs) netted 6 points each. Czech Republic will meet Germany today and it will be a very important game for both teams. Switzerland will take on Bulgaria.

Czech Republic: Dominika Pohunkova 20, Barbora Kasparkova 13+10 boards, Pamela-Therese Effangova 8
Switzerland: Melissa Favre 8+5 boards, Nadege Clement 6+6 boards, Ljubica Cutunic 6+5 boards


U20 Germany outplays U20 Czech Republic 75-67 in crucial game, wins promotion for Division A - by Eurobasket News

U20 GERMANY - U20 CZECH REPUBLIC 75-67

Germany made it in crucial game against Czech Republic, 75-67. Thanks to this win Germany joined Hungary at the second place with 5-2 record. Both teams already won the promotion for U20 EuroBasket Division A. At the other side, the host of Division B event failed to do it. They dropped to 4-3 after this crucial loss. Finja Schaake (179-F-92) scored 17 points in Germany and Laura Hebecker (181-F-93) added 13 points, plus 8 rebs. Julia Gaudermann (166-PG-92) netted 11 pts in this win. Renata Pudlakova (173-PG-92) shined in defeat with 20 points and Dominika Pohunkova (176-G-94) followed her with 15 pts. Barbora Kasparkova (181-F/C-92) had 7 points and 12 rebounds. Quarters: 17-16, 25-14, 18-25, 15-12. Czech Republic will meet top ranked Greece in the last game. Germany will play against last ranked Bulgaria.

Germany: Finja Schaake 17, Laura Hebecker 13+8 boards, Julia Gaudermann 11
Czech Republic: Renata Pudlakova 20, Dominika Pohunkova 15, Barbora Kasparkova 7+12 boards


*****************************************************
  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U20   

W-Standings - Group A

Standings
Group E
1. Sweden4-1
2. Spain4-1
3. Holland3-2
4. Belarus2-3
5. Poland2-3
6. Lithuania0-5
Group F
1. Turkey5-0
2. Ukraine3-2
3. France2-3
4. Russia2-3
5. Slovakia2-3
6. Serbia1-4
Group G (Places 13-16)
1. Italy4-0
2. Latvia2-2
3. Portugal2-2
4. U.Kingdom0-4

Semi-Finals: Round 8

Aug. 25: RUS - NED 73-55
Aug. 25: ESP - TUR 58-50

G

Aug. 25: ITA - ENG 69-58
Aug. 25: LAT - POR 53-51

Places 11-12

Aug. 25: SRB - SVK 67-61

Places 5-8

Aug. 25: SWE - UKR 81-76
Aug. 25: FRA - BLR 71-35

Places 9-10

Aug. 25: POL - LTU 76-78 2OT

Finals: Round 9

FINAL

Aug. 26: RUS - ESP

Bronze

Aug. 26: NED - TUR

Places 5-6

Aug. 26: SWE - FRA

Places 7-8

Aug. 26: UKR - BLR

G

Aug. 26: ITA - LAT
Aug. 26: ENG - POR


Stats Leaders (Women)

Points Per Game
 Alina IAGUPOVA
  (186-G-92)
  Avg: 27.1
 1. Iagupova, UKR27.1 
 2. Butter, NED17.5 
 3. Zietara, POL17.2 
 4. Abdi, SWE16.9 
 5. Domingues, POR14.1 
 6. Drammeh, SWE14.1 
 7. Rozenberga, LAT14.0 
 8. De Kleijn, NED14.0 
 9. Colic, SRB13.9 
 10. Casas, ESP13.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Ksenia TIKHONENKO
  RUS
  (190-F/C-93)
  Avg: 11.1
 1. Tikhonenko, RUS11.1 
 2. Grigalauskyt., LTU10.6 
 3. Iagupova, UKR10.3 
 4. Mistygacz, POL9.3 
 5. Svaryte, LTU9.1 
 6. Green, ENG8.1 
 7. Papova, BLR8.0 
 8. Zahui, SWE7.5 
 9. Brajkovic, SRB7.5 
 10. Pacheco, POR7.4 
Assists Per Game
 Alina IAGUPOVA
  (186-G-92)
  Avg: 5
 1. Iagupova, UKR5.0 
 2. Zietara, POL3.7 
 3. Cakir, TUR3.4 
 4. Ortiz, ESP3.3 
 5. Adams, NED3.1 
 6. Dotto, ITA3.0 
 7. Dotto, ITA2.9 
 8. Colic, SRB2.9 
 9. Nystrom, SWE2.9 
 10. Balintova, SVK2.6 
Steals Per Game
 Alina IAGUPOVA
  (186-G-92)
  Avg: 3.3
 1. Iagupova, UKR3.3 
 2. Mistygacz, POL3.1 
 3. Casas, ESP3.1 
 4. Colic, SRB2.7 
 5. Ortiz, ESP2.6 
 6. Dotto, ITA2.4 
 7. Cakir, TUR2.4 
 8. Butter, NED2.4 
 9. Bridina, LAT2.3 
 10. Zietara, POL2.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Dorota MISTYGACZ
  (183-F/C-92)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Mistygacz, POL1.9 
 2. Tikhonenko, RUS1.6 
 3. Ivashchanka, BLR1.3 
 4. Papova, BLR1.1 
 5. Cornelie, FRA1.0 
 6. Efimova, RUS1.0 
 7. Zahui, SWE0.9 
 8. Basaran, TUR0.8 
 9. Ortiz, ESP0.8 
 10. Filonchyk, BLR0.8 


Standings Div.B (Women) - by Charles Ramsdell

Standings Div.B
1. Greece6-1
2. Hungary5-2
3. Germany5-2
4. Czech Rep.4-3
5. Romania4-3
6. Belgium3-4
7. Israel3-5
8. Switzerlan.1-6
9. Bulgaria1-6

Preliminary Round: Round 8

Aug. 25: GER - CZE 75-67
Aug. 25: BEL - ISR 65-68
Aug. 25: GRE - HUN 62-61
Aug. 25: SUI - BUL 38-69

Preliminary Round: Round 9

Aug. 26: BUL - GER
Aug. 26: HUN - BEL
Aug. 26: CZE - GRE
Aug. 26: ROM - SUI


Division B, Day 8: Greece, Hungary and Germany win promotion for Division A - by Eurobasket News

Greece - Hungary 62-61
Greece grabbed 62-61 thriller win against Hungary in Day 8 of U20 EuroBasket Division B. Thanks to this victory Greece jumped 6-1 record and will win the gold medal in Klatovy. Hungary dropped to 5-2 and currently shares the second place with Germany. All three teams already won the promotion for Division A. Tarla made a winning lay-up for Greece with 10 seconds remaining in the game. Hungary had the last possession, but Judit Manyoky (172-G-92) missed from behind the arc. Quarters: 14-13, 17-13, 16-21, 15-14. Anna Stamolamprou (171-PG-95) paced Greece with 26 points (MVP, valuation 26). She made 5 of 6 attempts from behind the arc. Artemis Spanou (184-F-93) also was great adding 15 points and 16 rebounds, while Georgia Kantara (176-SG-93) netted 9 pts. In defeat, Manyoky and Lilla Adamecz (181-F-92) (7 rebs) scored 17 and 16 points respectively. Zsofia Licskai (191-C/F-93) collected 13 points and 8 rebs. Sunday is the last day of the championship in Klatovy. Greece will meet Czech Republic, while Hungary will take on Belgium.

Belgium - Israel 65-68
Israel outplayed Belgium 68-65 in Day 8 of U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. Israel played all of its 8 games at this event registering 3-5 record. They will finish as No.6 or No.7, depends on Belgium's game against Hungary tomorrow. Belgium has 3-4 score now. Israel shined in the last ten minutes of the game to take the victory in this meeting. Quarters: 18-12, 13-15, 21-20, 13-21. Thea Lemberger (175-G-92) stepped up for the winners with 23 points and 7 rebounds. May Dayan (170-PG-94) had 13 points and 5 rebs, while Inbar Lev Ron (174-SG-92) and Nof Kedem (170-SG-94) helped with 9 points each. In defeat, Emmanuella Mayombo (170-SG-92, agency: LBM Management) was much better than the others with 26 points. Marieke Versavel (168-PG-92) and Caroline Bourlioux (182-C-92) (5 rebs) posted 8 and 7 pts respectively. Sunday is the last day of the competition in Klatovy.

Switzerland - Bulgaria 38-69
Bulgaria finally registered first victory at U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. They blasted Switzerland 69-38 and both teams have 1-6 record now. Thanks to this win Bulgaria will most likely avoid last place at this event, but everything will be clear tomorrow. Bulgaria exploded in the second half to take the comfortable win in this meeting (9-15, 6-8, 9-22, 14-24). Viktoriya Stoycheva (171-PG-92) had 12 points and 5 rebounds in victory and Kristina Peychinova (176-SG-94) added 11 pts. Mariya Svetoslavova (179-F/G-93) added 10 points and 7 boards. In Switzerland, Vanessa Dorestant (170-G-92) was better than the others with 11 points. Alix Rieder (168-PG-93) stopped to 8 pts in this loss. In the last day of the competition Bulgaria will meet Germany. Switzerland will take on Romania.

Germany - Czech Republic 75-67
Germany made it in crucial game against Czech Republic, 75-67. Thanks to this win Germany joined Hungary at the second place with 5-2 record. Both teams already won the promotion for U20 EuroBasket Division A. At the other side, the host of Division B event failed to do it. They dropped to 4-3 after this crucial loss. Finja Schaake (179-F-92) scored 17 points in Germany and Laura Hebecker (181-F-93) added 13 points, plus 8 rebs. Julia Gaudermann (166-PG-92) netted 11 pts in this win. Renata Pudlakova (173-PG-92) shined in defeat with 20 points and Dominika Pohunkova (176-G-94) followed her with 15 pts. Barbora Kasparkova (181-F/C-92) had 7 points and 12 rebounds. Quarters: 17-16, 25-14, 18-25, 15-12. Czech Republic will meet top ranked Greece in the last game. Germany will play against last ranked Bulgaria.


Division A: Spain and Russia to fight for the title (again) - by Eurobasket News

SEMIFINALS

Spain - Turkey 58-50
Spain will have a chance to defend the title at U20 EuroBasket in Debrecen. Their rival will be Russia, same as last year. Spain celebrated 62-53 victory in Novi Sad to win the gold medal in 2011 edition. Today, Spain handed 58-50 loss to Turkey in the Semis. Spain was up by 15 at the halftime, but Turkey shined after the breather closing the gap to 6 pts with ten minutes remaining. They even took 3-point lead with 6:54 to go, but Spain closed this meeting with impressive 15-4 run. Laura Gil (190-C-92, agency: Josep and Nicolas) had 12 points and 7 rebounds in Spain, while Inmaculada Zanoguera (177-G/F-93) followed her with 11 points and 7 rebs. Mariona Ortiz (183-F/G-92) also posted 11 points in this victory. Turkey got 12 points and 7 rebounds from Olcay Cakir (180-PG-93), and Ayse Cora (175-G/F-93) posted 11 pts. Merve Aydin (174-PG-94) collected 10 points and 5 rebs. Turkey will meet Holland in the battle for bronze medal.

Russia - Holland 73-55
Russia cruised past Holland 73-55 in the Semifinals of U20 EuroBasket in Debrecen. It means that Russia advanced to the gold medal game, where they will meet winner of Spain - Turkey matchup. Holland will fight for third place against one of these two teams (will be known later tonight). Alexandra Stolyar (178-G-92) top-scored in Russia with 16 points and Ksenia Tikhonenko (190-F/C-93, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav) helped with impressive double-double of 13 points and 17 rebounds. She was the MVP of this game with valuation 23. Yulia Poluyanova (187-F-92) added 12 pts and 5 rebounds in victory. At the other side, Holland got 17 points from Zera Butter (179-G-92), who missed all of her 7 attempts from behind the arc. Jamailah Adams (180-G/F-93) had 12 points and 8 rebounds, and Marlou De Kleijn (182-F-92, agency: Regeneracom Sports) followed with 11 pts and 5 boards. Russia was up by 3 at the halftime and jumped to plus 6 with 10 minutes remaining in the game. They totally took control on Holland in the last quarter (23-11) to celebrate comfortable win at the end. Sunday is the last day of the championship in Debrecen.
It is important to mention that Russia lost to Spain a year ago in the title game 53-62.
Places 5-8
Sweden - Ukraine 81-76
Sweden made a first step forward to 5th place at U20 EuroBasket in Debrecen. They downed Ukraine today 81-76. Sweden will have to beat France tomorrow in order to end as No.5. Ukraine will play against Belarus for seventh place. Farhiya Abdi (188-F-92) shined with 20 points and 6 rebounds for the winners, while their best player was Binta Drammeh (180-F-92) with double-double of 19 points and 15 rebs (MVP, valuation 26). Elin Gustavsson (185-F-93) helped her team with 13 points. In the loosing squad, Alina Iagupova (186-G-92, agency: LBM Management) was close to triple-double collecting 39 points, 10 rebounds and 6 assists. However, she missed too many shots and finished with valuation 23, what was not enough for the MVP award in this game. Lyudmyla Naumenko (184-F-93) had 12 points and 9 rebounds, while Anna Kiriyenko (190-C-93) scored 10 pts. Teams were tied at 43-43 at the halfway of Q4 and Sweden jumped to 69-55 with 7:16 remaining in the game. That was too much for Ukraine. Sunday is the last game of the championship in Debrecen.

France - Belarus 71-35
France had an easy job against Belarus today at U20 EuroBasket in Debrecen. France celebrated huge 71-35 win and will meet Sweden tomorrow in the game for fifth place. Belarus will play against Ukraine and the winner of that game will end as No.7 at this event. France took control on its rival from the beginning and never looked back. Quarters: 20-10, 19-9, 13-11, 19-5. Alice Nayo (186-C-93) (7 rebs) and Sara Chevaugeon (177-G-93) scored 12 points each for the winners. Jodie Cornelie (193-F-93) had double-double of 10 points and 10 rebounds. In Belarus, Maryia Rashchenia (185-PF-92) and Ksenija Voishal (182-F-94) were the leading players with 7 points apiece. Maryia Papova (186-PF-94) had 6 points and 8 boards. Championship will end tomorrow.

Places 9-10
Poland - Lithuania 76-78 2OT
Second straight double overtime game for Poland. They outplayed Serbia on Friday, but today Lithuania grabbed 78-76 thriller win against Poland after two extra times. It was a game for 9th place at U20 EuroBasket in Debrecen. Santa Okockyte (176-PG-92) made a winning lay-up for Lithuania with 3 seconds remaining in second OT and Poland had no chance to reply. Monika Grigalauskyte (190-PF-92) led the winners with 23 points and 11 rebounds. Game hero Okockyte had 17 points and Laura Svaryte (190-C/F-92) added 15 points, plus 14 rebounds. Svaryte was MVP of this meeting with valuation 28. In Poland, Monika Jasnowska (182-G/F-92) was better than the others with 26 points. Magdalena Idziorek (178-G-92) (7 as) and Martyna Stelmach (187-F/C-92) (7 rebs) had 16 and 11 points respectively. Both teams finished their participation in Debrecen. Lithuania is No.9 and Poland is No.10. Spain and Russia will fight for the gold medal again.

Places 11-12
Serbia - Slovakia 67-61
Serbia won 11th place at U20 EuroBasket in Debrecen. They handed 67-61 loss to Slovakia in their last game at this event. Slovakia finished as No.12. Serbia was down by 3 points with ten minutes to go, but they closed this meeting with 19-10 for 6-point win at the end. Quarters: 18-18, 17-17, 13-16, 19-10. Ivana Brajkovic (195-C-93) was a key player in Serbia with 28 points and 9 rebounds. She was the MVP of this game with valuation 22. Aleksandra Stanacev (167-PG-94) had 9 points and 5 rebounds, while Natasa Kovacevic (187-F-94) added 8 pts. In defeat, Zofia Hruscakova (190-C-95) delivered 12 points and Marta Palenikova (184-G/F-92) had 10 pts, plus 6 rebounds. Angelika Oravcova (175-PG-92) also scored 10 pts in this loss. As mentioned, both teams ended their participation in Debrecen, despite the last day of the competition is Sunday.

Group G

Italy - United Kingdom 69-58
Box-score will be available soon.

Latvia - Portugal 53-51
Box-score will be available soon.


Division B: Day 7 in Klatovy - by Eurobasket News

garia - Romania 82-87 OT
Romania had to work very hard to beat Bulgaria in Day Seven of U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. It was a 87-82 OT win for Romania, who jumped to 4-3 record. At the other side, Bulgaria dropped to 0-6. Bulgaria was up by 11 at the halftime, but Romania improved after the breather and later made 12-7 in OT to take the victory in this meeting. Gabriela Cursaru (169-PG-92) shined for the winners with 24 points and 6 rebounds. Dora Ardelean (186-PF-94) with 19 points and 5 rebs, while Sonia Ursu (175-SG-93) added 16 pts, 8 rebs and 5 assists. In defeat, Gabriela Kostova (192-C-94) was better than the others with 22 points and 14 rebounds. Iva Kostova (178-SG-94) had 16 points and 9 rebs, while Mariya Svetoslavova (179-F/G-93) stopped to 13 pts. Romania will have a dayoff today. Bulgaria will meet Switzerland.

Hungary - Germany 71-76
Hungary faced with its first loss at U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. Germany defeated them 76-71 in Day Seven of the competition. Despite this loss, Hungary stays on top with 5-1 record, together with Greece. Germany improved its score to 4-2 and drastically increased its chances to win the promotion for Division A. They share third place with host Czech Republic. Finja Schaake (179-F-92) scored 19 points in victory and Laura Hebecker (181-F-93) netted 16 points. Sonja Greinacher (192-F/C-92, college: Gonzaga) was a key player in Germany with 15 points, 10 rebounds and 7 assists (valuation 30, MVP). Hungary got 25 points and 8 rebs from Lilla Adamecz (181-F-92). Krisztina Velkey (180-G/F-92) followed her with 15 points and 8 assists. Quarters: 17-22, 22-19, 12-15, 20-20. In the next game, Hungary will meet Greece and winner will most likely take the gold medal at this event. Germany will play against Czech Republic in another very important game.

Czech Republic - Switzerland 71-42
Czech Republic jumped to 4-2 record in Klatovy. They blasted Switzerland in Day Seven of U20 EuroBasket Division B sharing the third place with Germany. At the other side, Switzerland dropped to 1-5. Czech Republic took control on its rival from the very beginning and never looked back. Quarters: 29-14, 11-10, 12-6, 19-12. Dominika Pohunkova (176-G-94) was their best player with 20 points. Barbora Kasparkova (181-F/C-92) had 13 points and 10 rebs, while Pamela-Therese Effangova (175-SF-93) added 8 pts. In defeat, Melissa Favre (184-PF-92) collected 8 points and 5 rebs. Nadege Clement (184-C-93) (6 rebs) and Ljubica Cutunic (186-SF-94) (5 rebs) netted 6 points each. Czech Republic will meet Germany today and it will be a very important game for both teams. Switzerland will take on Bulgaria.

Israel - Greece 72-63
Israel surprised Greece in Day Seven of U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. Israel celebrated 72-63 win improving its record to 2-5 at this event. At the other side, it was the first loss for Greece, who has 5-1 record now. However, Hungary also failed on Friday so these two teams still stay on top together. Israel shined after the breather to secure the victory in this meeting. Quarters: 17-15, 16-23, 23-10, 16-15. Bar Gilinski (185-PF-92) had impressive game with 25 points and 9 rebounds. Orian Amsalem (178-G-92) had 15 points and 5 rebs, while Thea Lemberger (175-G-92) helped Israel with 11 points and 8 boards. In Greece, Artemis Spanou (184-F-93) exploded with 32 points and 17 rebs (valuation 39, MVP!). However, the second scorer in Greece was Anna Stamolamprou (171-PG-95) with just 10 pts. In the next game Israel will meet Belgium. Greece will play against Hungary and it will most likely be crucial game for the gold medal in Klatovy.


Division A, Day 7: Russia, Holland, Spain and Turkey advance to Semifinals - by Eurobasket News

QUARTERFINALS

Ukraine - Holland 63-71
Holland had another great game in Debrecen. This time they downed Ukraine 71-63 in the Quarterfinals of U20 EuroBasket and will meet Russia in the Semis. Ukraine will continue in Classification Round from 5th-8th place at this event. Their first rival will be Sweden. Holland had 3-point lead at the half time and after that made impressive 19-9 in Q3. Ukraine came to minus 7 in the last quarter, but it was all from them in this meeting. Marlou De Kleijn (182-F-92, agency: Regeneracom Sports) stepped up for the winners with 23 points and Zera Butter (179-G-92) added 14. Sharon Lammerink (189-C-93) posted 12 pts in this victory. At the other side, Alina Iagupova (186-G-92, agency: LBM Management) collected 21 points and 11 rebounds, but she made only 2 of 10 attempts from behind the arc. Oleksandra Chek (191-C-93, agency: New Trend Agency) (7 rebs) and Lyudmyla Naumenko (184-F-93) scored 13 points each. Semifinals, as well as first games of Classification Round from 5th-8th place, will be played today.

Sweden - Russia 65-73
Russia advanced to the Semifinals of U20 EuroBasket in Debrecen. They handed 73-65 loss to Sweden in the QFinals. Russia's rival in the battle for the gold medal game will be Holland. At the other side, Sweden will continue in Classification Round from 5th-8th place. Alexandra Stolyar (178-G-92) top-scored in victory with 15 points and Ksenia Tikhonenko (190-F/C-93, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav) helped with 14 points and 9 rebounds. Galina Kiseleva (184-F-93) secured a nice help adding 13 points, plus 6 boards. In defeat, Josefin Vesterberg (187-F/C-93) was better than the others with 16 points and 5 rebounds. Farhiya Abdi (188-F-92) scored 14 points and Binta Drammeh (180-F-92) added 10 pts, plus 8 rebs. Russia was up by four at the end of Q3 and jumped to 68-54 with 4 minutes remaining in the game. That was simply too much for Sweden. Quarters: 20-18, 18-12, 12-16, 23-19. Championship continues today.

Spain - France 55-53
Spain grabbed 55-53 thriller win against France in the Quarterfinals of U20 EuroBasket in Debrecin. It means that Spain advanced to the Semis, where they will meet Turkey. France will continue in Classification Round from 5th-8th place. Their first rival will be Belarus. Spain was 54-46 up with 2:55 remaining in the game, after what France made 7-0 run in something more than a minute. Both teams were scoreless in the next minute and a half, after what Laura Gil (190-C-92, agency: Josep and Nicolas) made on free throw for Spain. France had 7 seconds for the last possession and Diallo tried from behind the arc, but she missed and Spain advanced to the Semifinals. Quarters: 10-16, 21-10, 10-12, 14-15. Mariona Ortiz (183-F/G-92) led the winners with 21 points and 8 rebounds (valuation 29, MVP). Gil had 16 points and 7 rebs, while Queralt Casas (180-G-92) added 12 pts. In the loosing squad, Sara Chevaugeon (177-G-93) delivered 13 pts. Their second scorer was Romane Bernies (170-PG-93) with 9 points, while Alice Nayo (186-C-93) collected 8 points and 7 rebs. Teams will continue with games today.

Turkey - Belarus 66-61
Turkey extended its winning streak at U20 EuroBasket in Debrecen. They downed Belarus 66-61 in the Quarterfinals and booked a spot for the Semis. There, Turkey will meet Spain. Ayse Cora (175-G/F-93) (5 rebs) and Pelin Bilgic (173-G-94) led the winners with 12 points each. Merve Aydin (174-PG-94) followed them with 10 points and 7 rebs. In Belarus, Maryia Papova (186-PF-94) (7 rebs) and Aliaksandra Musatava (174-SG-92) scored 16 points apiece, and Maryia Filonchyk (187-PF-92) posted 15 points in this defeat. Turkey had 48-42 lead after 30 minutes, but Belarus closed the gap to 3 pts soon after that. Ayse Cora and her teammates shined when it mattered most and stayed in charge for rest of the game. Championship continues today. As mentioned above, Turkey will meet Spain, while Belarus will play against France. It will be the first game of the Classification Round from 5th-8th place.

Places 9-12
Slovakia - Lithuania 54-57
Lithuania made a first step forward to 9th place at U20 EuroBasket in Debrecin. They grabbed 57-54 win over Slovakia on Friday. Today, Lithuania will meet Poland and winner of that game will take 9th place at this event. Slovakia will meet Serbia in the battle for position No.11. Laura Svaryte (190-C/F-92) paced Lithuania with 15 points and 7 rebounds. Monika Grigalauskyte (190-PF-92) (12 rebs) and Monika Petrauskaite (183-F-92) (6 rebs) netted 10 points each. In defeat, Marta Palenikova (184-G/F-92) scored 14 points and Angelika Oravcova (175-PG-92) had three less than her. Barbora Balintova (176-G-94) stopped to 8 pts in this loss. Lithuania was constantly in charge during the last ten minutes, despite Slovakia touched minus one with 7:55 to go. Quarters: 16-22, 25-10, 4-8, 12-14. Championship continues today.

Poland - Serbia 72-66 2OT
Poland grabbed 72-66 double overtime win against Serbia in the first game of the Classification Round from 9th-12th place. Today, Poland will meet Lithuania and winner of that game with finish as No.9 of U20 EuroBasket in Debrecein. Serbia will meet Slovakia in the battle for 11th place. It was a heartbreaking thriller and Poland shined in the second OT to take the victory. Quarters: 7-16, 12-13, 9-8, 20-11, 10-10 OT1, 14-8 OT2. Martyna Stelmach (187-F/C-92) stepped up for the winners with 18 points and 8 rebounds. Magdalena Zietara (170-G/F-92) had 12 points and 6 assists, while Dorota Mistygacz (183-F/C-92) helped with double-double of 11 points and 10 rebs. In Serbia, Natasa Kovacevic (187-F-94) delivered 15 points, while Milica Toskovic (187-G-93) added 11 pts and 5 rebs. Snezana Colic (178-G-92) collected 10 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists in this game. Both teams will play their last games in Debrecen today.

Group G
Portugal - Italy 52-56
Italy celebrated its fourth straight victory in Group G of U20 EuroBasket. They downed Portugal 56-52 for 4-0 record in this pool. After this win Italy is very close to survival in Division A and actually victory against UK today would be enough. At the other side, Portugal dropped to 2-2 and they are in very difficult situation now. Giovanna Pertile (182-F-92) led the winners with 9 points and 10 rebounds. Francesca Dotto (170-PG-93) and Nene Diene (169-PG-92) also scored 9 points each in this victory. At the other side, Jessica Almeida (172-PG-93) delivered 12 points and Daniela Domingues (176-G/F-92) added 11 pts, plus 10 boards. Laura Ferreira (177-G-95) stopped to 9 pts in this loss. Italy was better in the last ten minutes to take the victory in this meeting. Quarters: 16-15, 10-16, 10-7, 20-14. Today, Italy will meet UK. Portugal will play against Latvia.

United Kingdom - Latvia 61-72
Latvia registered second win in Group G of U20 EuroBasket in Debrecen. They handed 71-61 loss to UK on Friday. After this win Latvia kept their hopes alive for the survival in Division A, but it will be very difficult task as Italy already has 4-0 in this pool. UK dropped to 0-4. Sabine Dukate (174-F-93) netted 18 points for the winners and Dita Rozenberga (181-F-92) added 14 pts. Ance Aizsila (175-G-94) followed them with 12 pts. In the loosing squad, Jessica Hurd (185-C-92) was better than the others with 14 points and 7 rebounds. Erin McGarrachan (182-G-92) had 12 points and 5 rebs, while Olufemi Hamilton (170-G-93) stopped to 9 pts and 6 rebs. Quaretrs: 16-11, 12-14, 25-16, 19-20. In the next game Latvia will meet Portugal. UK will take on Italy.


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  FRANCE   


U20 France blasts U20 Belarus in Debrecen, 71-35 - by Eurobasket News

U20 FRANCE - U20 BELARUS 71-35

France had an easy job against Belarus today at U20 EuroBasket in Debrecen. France celebrated huge 71-35 win and will meet Sweden tomorrow in the game for fifth place. Belarus will play against Ukraine and the winner of that game will end as No.7 at this event. France took control on its rival from the beginning and never looked back. Quarters: 20-10, 19-9, 13-11, 19-5. Alice Nayo (186-C-93) (7 rebs) and Sara Chevaugeon (177-G-93) scored 12 points each for the winners. Jodie Cornelie (193-F-93) had double-double of 10 points and 10 rebounds. In Belarus, Maryia Rashchenia (185-PF-92) and Ksenija Voishal (182-F-94) were the leading players with 7 points apiece. Maryia Papova (186-PF-94) had 6 points and 8 boards. Championship will end tomorrow.

France: Alice Nayo 12+7 boards, Sara Chevaugeon 12, Jodie Cornelie 10+10 boards
Belarus: Maryia Rashchenia 7, Ksenija Voishal 7, Maryia Papova 6+8 boards


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  GERMANY   


Markeshia Grant signs with Herner TC - by Eurobasket News

Markeshia Grant (167-G) signs with Herner TC for the upcoming season. The American player will debut in Europe.
She appeared first for (2V) Tampa, FL (College of Central Florida) but later moved to NCAA. In 2010-2011 she joined S.Carolina (NCAA) and after 33 games averaged 6.5ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 33.5%, 3PT: 28.8%, FT: 68.4%. In 2011-2012 for S.Carolina (NCAA, starting five) her stats read 11.1ppg, 2.5rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 40.8%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 71.4%.
Last year she became All-SEC 2nd Team -12 and reached SEC Tournament Semifinals -12. Markeshia Grant holds a share of the school record for 3-pointers made in an SEC game with her seven at #8/8 Tennessee. She led the team and was 19th in the SEC in scoring. Grant was the team's top scorer 10 times and scored in double figures 20 times. She earned USBWA National Player of the Week and SEC Player of the Week honors after career-high 27 points.
Markeshia Grant recorded first career 20-point game with 22 against Furman. She handed out a career-high six assists against Alabama A&M.


Austrian Kata Takacs stays with BG '89 Avines - by Eurobasket News

Austrian Kata Takacs (184-F-91) stays with BG '89 Avines for the next season. The national team player will enter her second season in Germany.
In 2008-2009 she appeared for BK Jocher's Duchess Klosterneuburg (AWBL, starting five). In Austria she became Austrian Cup Finalist -11, Eurobasket.com All-Austrian AWBL 1st Team -11, Austrian AWBL Regular Season Runner-Up -11 and reached Austrian AWBL Finals -11.
After another 2 seasons with the team she went to BG '89 Avines Hurricanes Rotenburg (Germany-DBBL). In 19 games last season her stats read 1.6ppg, 1.7rpg.
Last year Kata Takacs was a member of the Austrian U20 National Team. At the European Championships U20 Division B in Ohrid (FYR Macedonia) her stats read 7.0ppg, 5.1rpg, 2.0apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 29.3%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 67.9%. Earlier she participated at the European Championships U20 Division B in Kavadarci (FYR Macedonia). In 6 games her stats read 6.2ppg, 3.2rpg, 2.0spg, FGP: 34.5%, 3PT: 20.0%, FT: 77.8%.


SV Halle Lions keep Julia Kohlmann - by Eurobasket News

SV Halle Lions keep Julia Kohlmann (172-SG-92) for another three seasons. The player signed with the team a 3-year extension.
In 2009-2010 she appeared for SV Halle Lions (DBBL) and averaged 2.8ppg. In 2010-2011 her stats read 2.0ppg. Last season she had 4.3ppg in 29 games.
Julia Kohlmann is also a German U18 National Team member -09-10. At the European Championships U18 Division B for Women in Timisoara (Romania) she had 4.7ppg, 1.1rpg, 2.1apg. Later she became German U20 National Team -11-12 and at the European Championships U20 in Serbia -11 showed 3.6ppg.
Together with SV Halle Lions last year she became German DBBL Finalist -12.
Earlier the team announced Daphanie Kennedy (175-PG-86, college: Pepperdine), Michaela Abelova (183-G-85) and Tamara Tatham (185-F-85, college: Massachusetts). Moreover two German players also will stay in the team: Christina Schnorr (187-F/C-92) and Julia Gaudermann (166-PG-92).


U20 Germany outplays U20 Hungary in very important game - by Eurobasket News

U20 HUNGARY - U20 GERMANY 71-76

Hungary faced with its first loss at U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. Germany defeated them 76-71 in Day Seven of the competition. Despite this loss, Hungary stays on top with 5-1 record, together with Greece. Germany improved its score to 4-2 and drastically increased its chances to win the promotion for Division A. They share third place with host Czech Republic. Finja Schaake (179-F-92) scored 19 points in victory and Laura Hebecker (181-F-93) netted 16 points. Sonja Greinacher (192-F/C-92, college: Gonzaga) was a key player in Germany with 15 points, 10 rebounds and 7 assists (valuation 30, MVP). Hungary got 25 points and 8 rebs from Lilla Adamecz (181-F-92). Krisztina Velkey (180-G/F-92) followed her with 15 points and 8 assists. Quarters: 17-22, 22-19, 12-15, 20-20. In the next game, Hungary will meet Greece and winner will most likely take the gold medal at this event. Germany will play against Czech Republic in another very important game.

Hungary: Lilla Adamecz 25+8 boards, Krisztina Velkey 15+8 boards
Germany: Finja Schaake 19, Laura Hebecker 16, Sonja Greinacher 15+10 boards+7 as


U20 Germany outplays U20 Czech Republic 75-67 in crucial game, wins promotion for Division A - by Eurobasket News

U20 GERMANY - U20 CZECH REPUBLIC 75-67

Germany made it in crucial game against Czech Republic, 75-67. Thanks to this win Germany joined Hungary at the second place with 5-2 record. Both teams already won the promotion for U20 EuroBasket Division A. At the other side, the host of Division B event failed to do it. They dropped to 4-3 after this crucial loss. Finja Schaake (179-F-92) scored 17 points in Germany and Laura Hebecker (181-F-93) added 13 points, plus 8 rebs. Julia Gaudermann (166-PG-92) netted 11 pts in this win. Renata Pudlakova (173-PG-92) shined in defeat with 20 points and Dominika Pohunkova (176-G-94) followed her with 15 pts. Barbora Kasparkova (181-F/C-92) had 7 points and 12 rebounds. Quarters: 17-16, 25-14, 18-25, 15-12. Czech Republic will meet top ranked Greece in the last game. Germany will play against last ranked Bulgaria.

Germany: Finja Schaake 17, Laura Hebecker 13+8 boards, Julia Gaudermann 11
Czech Republic: Renata Pudlakova 20, Dominika Pohunkova 15, Barbora Kasparkova 7+12 boards


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  GREECE   


U20 Greece secures gold medal in Klatovy, Hungary also wins promotion for Division A - by Eurobasket News

U20 GREECE - U20 HUNGARY 62-61

Greece grabbed 62-61 thriller win against Hungary in Day 8 of U20 EuroBasket Division B. Thanks to this victory Greece jumped 6-1 record and will win the gold medal in Klatovy. Hungary dropped to 5-2 and currently shares the second place with Germany. All three teams already won the promotion for Division A. Tarla made a winning lay-up for Greece with 10 seconds remaining in the game. Hungary had the last possession, but Judit Manyoky (172-G-92) missed from behind the arc. Quarters: 14-13, 17-13, 16-21, 15-14. Anna Stamolamprou (171-PG-95) paced Greece with 26 points (MVP, valuation 26). She made 5 of 6 attempts from behind the arc. Artemis Spanou (184-F-93) also was great adding 15 points and 16 rebounds, while Georgia Kantara (176-SG-93) netted 9 pts. In defeat, Manyoky and Lilla Adamecz (181-F-92) (7 rebs) scored 17 and 16 points respectively. Zsofia Licskai (191-C/F-93) collected 13 points and 8 rebs. Sunday is the last day of the championship in Klatovy. Greece will meet Czech Republic, while Hungary will take on Belgium.

Greece: Anna Stamolamprou 26, Artemis Spanou 15+16 boards, Georgia Kantara 9
Hungary: Judit Manyoky 17, Lilla Adamecz 16+7 boards, Zsofia Licskai 13+8 boards


U20 Israel hands first loss to U20 Greece in Klatovy - by Eurobasket News

U20 ISRAEL - U20 GREECE 72-63

Israel surprised Greece in Day Seven of U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. Israel celebrated 72-63 win improving its record to 2-5 at this event. At the other side, it was the first loss for Greece, who has 5-1 record now. However, Hungary also failed on Friday so these two teams still stay on top together. Israel shined after the breather to secure the victory in this meeting. Quarters: 17-15, 16-23, 23-10, 16-15. Bar Gilinski (185-PF-92) had impressive game with 25 points and 9 rebounds. Orian Amsalem (178-G-92) had 15 points and 5 rebs, while Thea Lemberger (175-G-92) helped Israel with 11 points and 8 boards. In Greece, Artemis Spanou (184-F-93) exploded with 32 points and 17 rebs (valuation 39, MVP!). However, the second scorer in Greece was Anna Stamolamprou (171-PG-95) with just 10 pts. In the next game Israel will meet Belgium. Greece will play against Hungary and it will most likely be crucial game for the gold medal in Klatovy.

Israel: Bar Gilinski 25+9 boards, Orian Amsalem 15+5 boards, Thea Lemberger 11+8 boards
Greece: Artemis Spanou 32+17 boards, Anna Stamolamprou 10


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  HOLLAND   


Holland downs Ukraine in U20 EuroBasket QFinals, 71-63 - by Eurobasket News

U20 UKRAINE - U20 HOLLAND 63-71

Holland had another great game in Debrecen. This time they downed Ukraine 71-63 in the Quarterfinals of U20 EuroBasket and will meet Russia in the Semis. Ukraine will continue in Classification Round from 5th-8th place at this event. Their first rival will be Sweden. Holland had 3-point lead at the half time and after that made impressive 19-9 in Q3. Ukraine came to minus 7 in the last quarter, but it was all from them in this meeting. Marlou De Kleijn (182-F-92, agency: Regeneracom Sports) stepped up for the winners with 23 points and Zera Butter (179-G-92) added 14. Sharon Lammerink (189-C-93) posted 12 pts in this victory. At the other side, Alina Iagupova (186-G-92, agency: LBM Management) collected 21 points and 11 rebounds, but she made only 2 of 10 attempts from behind the arc. Oleksandra Chek (191-C-93, agency: New Trend Agency) (7 rebs) and Lyudmyla Naumenko (184-F-93) scored 13 points each. Semifinals, as well as first games of Classification Round from 5th-8th place, will be played today.

Ukraine: Alina Iagupova 21+11 boards, Oleksandra Chek 13+7 boards, Lyudmyla Naumenko 13
Holland: Marlou De Kleijn 23, Zera Butter 14, Sharon Lammerink 12


Australia outguns host of FIBA U17 World Championship - by Eurobasket News

U17 HOLLAND - U17 AUSTRALIA 58-82

Australia had an easy job against Holland today in Amsterdam. The host of FIBA U17 World Championship faced with 24-point loss, 58-82. It means that Australia will meet Italy tomorrow in the battle for the fifth place at this event. Holland will play against Belgium for position No.7. Tiana Mangakahia (165-PG-95) led the winners with 18 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists, while Vanessa Panousis (170-PG-95) added 17 points and 5 boards. Keely Froling (184-F-96) followed them with 13 points and 8 rebs. The hosts got 14 points (6 rebs) from Lisanne de Jonge (180-SF-95) and 13 pts from Klaziena Guijt (172-SG-95). Janis Ndiba (180-PF-97) collected 8 points and 7 boards. Quarters: 15-11, 23-19, 23-13, 21-15. Sunday is the last day of the championship in Amsterdam.

Holland: Lisanne de Jonge 14+6 boards, Klaziena Guijt 13, Janis Ndiba 8+7 boards
Australia: Tiana Mangakahia 18+6 boards+5 as, Vanessa Panousis 17+5 boards, Keely Froling 13+8 boards


U20 Russia advances to title game in Debrecen - by Eurobasket News

U20 RUSSIA - U20 HOLLAND 73-55

Russia cruised past Holland 73-55 in the Semifinals of U20 EuroBasket in Debrecen. It means that Russia advanced to the gold medal game, where they will meet winner of Spain - Turkey matchup. Holland will fight for third place against one of these two teams (will be known later tonight). Alexandra Stolyar (178-G-92) top-scored in Russia with 16 points and Ksenia Tikhonenko (190-F/C-93, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav) helped with impressive double-double of 13 points and 17 rebounds. She was the MVP of this game with valuation 23. Yulia Poluyanova (187-F-92) added 12 pts and 5 rebounds in victory. At the other side, Holland got 17 points from Zera Butter (179-G-92), who missed all of her 7 attempts from behind the arc. Jamailah Adams (180-G/F-93) had 12 points and 8 rebounds, and Marlou De Kleijn (182-F-92, agency: Regeneracom Sports) followed with 11 pts and 5 boards. Russia was up by 3 at the halftime and jumped to plus 6 with 10 minutes remaining in the game. They totally took control on Holland in the last quarter (23-11) to celebrate comfortable win at the end. Sunday is the last day of the championship in Debrecen.
It is important to mention that Russia lost to Spain a year ago in the title game 53-62.

Russia: Alexandra Stolyar 16, Ksenia Tikhonenko 13+17 boards, Yulia Poluyanova 12+5 boards
Holland: Zera Butter 17, Jamailah Adams 12+8 boards, Marlou De Kleijn 11+5 boards


U17 Canada grabs 56-55 thriller win over U17 Holland, heads to Semis - by Eurobasket News

U17 HOLLAND - U17 CANADA 55-56

Canada grabbed 56-55 thriller win over Holland in the Quarterfinals of FIBA U17 World Championship in Amsterdam. In the Semis, Canada will meet defending champion USA. It will be a North American derby. At the other side, the host of this event will fight for the fifth place. None of the teams had a 3 or more possession lead. Netherlands attempted a game winning shot in the last second of regulation, but it fell short. Kia Nurse (177-PG-96) scored 18 points for the winners, while Emma Wolfram (193-C-95) added 13 points and 6 rebounds. Shaylisha Colley (172-PG-96) also posted 13 pts in this meeting. In Holland, Lisanne de Jonge (180-SF-95) top-scored with 13 points. Britt Zappeij (182-PF-95) and Laura Cornelius (173-PG-96) scored 8 points each and they also had 8 and 5 rebounds respectively. Championship continues today. Holland will play against Australia.

Holland: Lisanne de Jonge 13, Britt Zappeij 8+8 boards, Laura Cornelius 8+5 boards
Canada: Kia Nurse 18, Emma Wolfram 13+6 boards, Shaylisha Colley 13


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  HUNGARY   


U20 Germany outplays U20 Hungary in very important game - by Eurobasket News

U20 HUNGARY - U20 GERMANY 71-76

Hungary faced with its first loss at U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. Germany defeated them 76-71 in Day Seven of the competition. Despite this loss, Hungary stays on top with 5-1 record, together with Greece. Germany improved its score to 4-2 and drastically increased its chances to win the promotion for Division A. They share third place with host Czech Republic. Finja Schaake (179-F-92) scored 19 points in victory and Laura Hebecker (181-F-93) netted 16 points. Sonja Greinacher (192-F/C-92, college: Gonzaga) was a key player in Germany with 15 points, 10 rebounds and 7 assists (valuation 30, MVP). Hungary got 25 points and 8 rebs from Lilla Adamecz (181-F-92). Krisztina Velkey (180-G/F-92) followed her with 15 points and 8 assists. Quarters: 17-22, 22-19, 12-15, 20-20. In the next game, Hungary will meet Greece and winner will most likely take the gold medal at this event. Germany will play against Czech Republic in another very important game.

Hungary: Lilla Adamecz 25+8 boards, Krisztina Velkey 15+8 boards
Germany: Finja Schaake 19, Laura Hebecker 16, Sonja Greinacher 15+10 boards+7 as


U20 Greece secures gold medal in Klatovy, Hungary also wins promotion for Division A - by Eurobasket News

U20 GREECE - U20 HUNGARY 62-61

Greece grabbed 62-61 thriller win against Hungary in Day 8 of U20 EuroBasket Division B. Thanks to this victory Greece jumped 6-1 record and will win the gold medal in Klatovy. Hungary dropped to 5-2 and currently shares the second place with Germany. All three teams already won the promotion for Division A. Tarla made a winning lay-up for Greece with 10 seconds remaining in the game. Hungary had the last possession, but Judit Manyoky (172-G-92) missed from behind the arc. Quarters: 14-13, 17-13, 16-21, 15-14. Anna Stamolamprou (171-PG-95) paced Greece with 26 points (MVP, valuation 26). She made 5 of 6 attempts from behind the arc. Artemis Spanou (184-F-93) also was great adding 15 points and 16 rebounds, while Georgia Kantara (176-SG-93) netted 9 pts. In defeat, Manyoky and Lilla Adamecz (181-F-92) (7 rebs) scored 17 and 16 points respectively. Zsofia Licskai (191-C/F-93) collected 13 points and 8 rebs. Sunday is the last day of the championship in Klatovy. Greece will meet Czech Republic, while Hungary will take on Belgium.

Greece: Anna Stamolamprou 26, Artemis Spanou 15+16 boards, Georgia Kantara 9
Hungary: Judit Manyoky 17, Lilla Adamecz 16+7 boards, Zsofia Licskai 13+8 boards


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


U20 Israel hands first loss to U20 Greece in Klatovy - by Eurobasket News

U20 ISRAEL - U20 GREECE 72-63

Israel surprised Greece in Day Seven of U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. Israel celebrated 72-63 win improving its record to 2-5 at this event. At the other side, it was the first loss for Greece, who has 5-1 record now. However, Hungary also failed on Friday so these two teams still stay on top together. Israel shined after the breather to secure the victory in this meeting. Quarters: 17-15, 16-23, 23-10, 16-15. Bar Gilinski (185-PF-92) had impressive game with 25 points and 9 rebounds. Orian Amsalem (178-G-92) had 15 points and 5 rebs, while Thea Lemberger (175-G-92) helped Israel with 11 points and 8 boards. In Greece, Artemis Spanou (184-F-93) exploded with 32 points and 17 rebs (valuation 39, MVP!). However, the second scorer in Greece was Anna Stamolamprou (171-PG-95) with just 10 pts. In the next game Israel will meet Belgium. Greece will play against Hungary and it will most likely be crucial game for the gold medal in Klatovy.

Israel: Bar Gilinski 25+9 boards, Orian Amsalem 15+5 boards, Thea Lemberger 11+8 boards
Greece: Artemis Spanou 32+17 boards, Anna Stamolamprou 10


U20 Israel celebrates third win in Klatovy - by Eurobasket News

U20 BELGIUM - U20 ISRAEL 65-68

Israel outplayed Belgium 68-65 in Day 8 of U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. Israel played all of its 8 games at this event registering 3-5 record. They will finish as No.6 or No.7, depends on Belgium's game against Hungary tomorrow. Belgium has 3-4 score now. Israel shined in the last ten minutes of the game to take the victory in this meeting. Quarters: 18-12, 13-15, 21-20, 13-21. Thea Lemberger (175-G-92) stepped up for the winners with 23 points and 7 rebounds. May Dayan (170-PG-94) had 13 points and 5 rebs, while Inbar Lev Ron (174-SG-92) and Nof Kedem (170-SG-94) helped with 9 points each. In defeat, Emmanuella Mayombo (170-SG-92, agency: LBM Management) was much better than the others with 26 points. Marieke Versavel (168-PG-92) and Caroline Bourlioux (182-C-92) (5 rebs) posted 8 and 7 pts respectively. Sunday is the last day of the competition in Klatovy.

Belgium: Emmanuella Mayombo 26, Marieke Versavel 8, Caroline Bourlioux 7+5 boards
Israel: Thea Lemberger 23+7 boards, May Dayan 13+5 boards, Inbar Lev Ron 9, Nof Kedem 9


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  ITALY   


U20 Italy is one win away from the survival in Division A - by Eurobasket News

U20 PORTUGAL - U20 ITALY 52-56

Italy celebrated its fourth straight victory in Group G of U20 EuroBasket. They downed Portugal 56-52 for 4-0 record in this pool. After this win Italy is very close to survival in Division A and actually victory against UK today would be enough. At the other side, Portugal dropped to 2-2 and they are in very difficult situation now. Giovanna Pertile (182-F-92) led the winners with 9 points and 10 rebounds. Francesca Dotto (170-PG-93) and Nene Diene (169-PG-92) also scored 9 points each in this victory. At the other side, Jessica Almeida (172-PG-93) delivered 12 points and Daniela Domingues (176-G/F-92) added 11 pts, plus 10 boards. Laura Ferreira (177-G-95) stopped to 9 pts in this loss. Italy was better in the last ten minutes to take the victory in this meeting. Quarters: 16-15, 10-16, 10-7, 20-14. Today, Italy will meet UK. Portugal will play against Latvia.

Portugal: Jessica Almeida 12, Daniela Domingues 11+10 boards, Laura Ferreira 9
Italy: Giovanna Pertile 9+10 boards, Francesca Dotto 9, Nene Diene 9


Elisa Penna, U17 Italy too strong for U17 Belgium in Amsterdam - by Eurobasket News

U17 ITALY - U17 BELGIUM 63-55

Italy was better than Belgium today in Amsterdam, 63-55. It was the first game of Classification Round from 5th-8th place at FIBA U17 World Championship. In order to take position No.5 Italy will have to beat Australia tomorrow. Belgium will play against Holland for seventh place. Marzia Tagliamento (181-PF-96) top-scored in Italy with 18 points, while Elisa Penna (186-SG-95) added one point less, plus she pulled down 10 rebounds. Maria Barberis (175-SF-95) netted 11 pts in this victory. In Belgium, Hind Ben Abdelkader (170-PG-95) had 24 points and 9 rebounds, but again with poor shot percentage (3//10 FG2, 5/22 3-pts). Julie Allemand (173-PG-96) stopped to 10 points and 5 rebounds. Quarters: 9-8, 17-17, 14-11, 23-19. Championship will end tomorrow. USA will have a chance to defend the title.

Italy: Marzia Tagliamento 18, Elisa Penna 17+10 boards, Maria Barberis 11
Belgium: Hind Ben Abdelkader 24+9 boards, Julie Allemand 10+5 boards


Spain cruises past Italy in the QFinals of FIBA U17 World Championship - by Eurobasket News

U17 ITALY - U17 SPAIN 39-67

Spain had an easy job against Italy in the Quarterfinals of FIBA U17 World Championship in Amsterdam. Spain celebrated 67-39 win and will meet Japan in the Semifinals. Italy will be transferred to Classification Round from 5th-8th place and their first rival will be Belgium. Spain was better team during the entire game, especially in the second half. Quarters: 13-10, 13-9, 18-11, 23-9. Laura Quevedo (185-PF-96) was the leading player in victory with 19 points and 9 rebounds. Marina Lizarazu (172-PG-95) and Ariadna Pujol (183-PG-95) netted 14 and 11 pts respectively. In Italy, Elisa Penna (186-SG-95) had 8 points and Giulia Porro (166-PG-95) added two less. Championship continues today. In the other Semifinals, USA will meet Canada. USA is the defending champion in Amsterdam.

Italy: Elisa Penna 8, Giulia Porro 6
Spain: Laura Quevedo 19+9 boards, Marina Lizarazu 14, Ariadna Pujol 11


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  JAPAN   


Spain cruises past Japan 91-62, advances to title game at FIBA U17 World Championship - by Eurobasket News

U17 SPAIN - U17 JAPAN 91-62

Spain did a great job against Japan tonight in Amsterdam. It was the Semifinals game of FIBA U17 World Championship and Spain celebrated huge 91-62 win against its rival advancing to the Big Final. There, Spain will meet defending champion USA. Two years ago USA eliminated Spain in the Quarterfinals. At the other side, Japan will play against Canada in bronze medal game. Spain made 10-point lead already in the first quarter and later they jumped to plus 17 with 10 minutes remaining in the game. They totally took control on Japan in Q4 (23-11) to end this matchup in style. Leticia Romero (176-SG-95) paced Spain with 27 points and 5 assists. Maria Arrojo (186-F-85) also was great adding 21 points and 6 rebs, while Marina Lizarazu (172-PG-95) helped with 13 points and 6 rebs. In defeat, Ai Yamada (167-SG-95) and Ayane Itani (172-SF-95) posted 14 and 13 points respectively. Yunika Nakamura (177-PF-95) collected 11 points and 5 boards in this defeat. Both gold and bronze medal games will be played tomorrow.

Spain: Leticia Romero 27+5 as, Maria Arrojo 21+6 boards, Marina Lizarazu 13+6 boards
Japan: Ai Yamada 14, Ayane Itani 13, Yunika Nakamura 11+5 boards


U17 Japan advances to Semifinals in Amsterdam - by Eurobasket News

U17 JAPAN - U17 BELGIUM 70-64

Japan is in the Semifinals of FIBA U17 World Championship in Amsterdam. They outplayed Belgium 70-64 in the QFinals thanks to impressive first half of the game. Japan made 28-18 in the first ten minutes and jumped to plus 16 at the halftime. Belgium drastically improved after the breather, but still Japan was strong enough to keep the lead and to celebrate at the end. Quarters: 28-18, 14-8, 13-20, 15-18. Ai Yamada (167-SG-95) scored 21 points in victory and Yunika Nakamura (177-PF-95) added 19 pts. Evelyn Mawuli (180-C-95) followed them with 14 points and 16 rebs. In defeat, Hind Ben Abdelkader (170-PG-95) was better than the others with 19 points, but she made only 3 of 14 attempts from behind the arc. Laeticia Mpoyi (179-C-96) (8 rebs) and Anneleen De Baets (157-PG-95) (7 rebs) posted 11 and 10 pts respectively. Japan will meet Spain in the Semifinals. Belgium will continue in Classification Round from 5th-8th place.

Japan: Ai Yamada 21, Yunika Nakamura 19, Evelyn Mawuli 14+16 boards
Belgium: Hind Ben Abdelkader 19, Laeticia Mpoyi 11+8 boards, Anneleen De Baets 10+7 boards


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  LATVIA   


U20 Latvia jumps to 2-2 in Group G - by Eurobasket News

U20 UNITED KINGDOM - U20 LATVIA 61-72

Latvia registered second win in Group G of U20 EuroBasket in Debrecen. They handed 71-61 loss to UK on Friday. After this win Latvia kept their hopes alive for the survival in Division A, but it will be very difficult task as Italy already has 4-0 in this pool. UK dropped to 0-4. Sabine Dukate (174-F-93) netted 18 points for the winners and Dita Rozenberga (181-F-92) added 14 pts. Ance Aizsila (175-G-94) followed them with 12 pts. In the loosing squad, Jessica Hurd (185-C-92) was better than the others with 14 points and 7 rebounds. Erin McGarrachan (182-G-92) had 12 points and 5 rebs, while Olufemi Hamilton (170-G-93) stopped to 9 pts and 6 rebs. Quaretrs: 16-11, 12-14, 25-16, 19-20. In the next game Latvia will meet Portugal. UK will take on Italy.

UK: Jessica Hurd 14+7 boards, Erin McGarrachan 12+5 boards, Olufemi Hamilton 9+6 boards
Latvia: Sabine Dukate 18, Dita Rozenberga 14, Ance Aizsila 12


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  LITHUANIA   


U20 Lithuania takes 9th place in Debrecen after 78-76 double OT win against U20 Poland - by Eurobasket News

U20 POLAND - U20 LITHUANIA 76-78 2OT

Second straight double overtime game for Poland. They outplayed Serbia on Friday, but today Lithuania grabbed 78-76 thriller win against Poland after two extra times. It was a game for 9th place at U20 EuroBasket in Debrecen. Santa Okockyte (176-PG-92) made a winning lay-up for Lithuania with 3 seconds remaining in second OT and Poland had no chance to reply. Monika Grigalauskyte (190-PF-92) led the winners with 23 points and 11 rebounds. Game hero Okockyte had 17 points and Laura Svaryte (190-C/F-92) added 15 points, plus 14 rebounds. Svaryte was MVP of this meeting with valuation 28. In Poland, Monika Jasnowska (182-G/F-92) was better than the others with 26 points. Magdalena Idziorek (178-G-92) (7 as) and Martyna Stelmach (187-F/C-92) (7 rebs) had 16 and 11 points respectively. Both teams finished their participation in Debrecen. Lithuania is No.9 and Poland is No.10. Spain and Russia will fight for the gold medal again.

Poland: Monika Jasnowska 26, Magdalena Idziorek 16+7 as, Martyna Stelmach 11+7 boards
Lithuania: Monika Grigalauskyte 23+11 boards, Santa Okockyte 17, Laura Svaryte 15+14 boards


U20 Lithuania better than U20 Slovakia 57-54 - by Eurobasket News

U20 SLOVAKIA - U20 LITHUANIA 54-57

Lithuania made a first step forward to 9th place at U20 EuroBasket in Debrecin. They grabbed 57-54 win over Slovakia on Friday. Today, Lithuania will meet Poland and winner of that game will take 9th place at this event. Slovakia will meet Serbia in the battle for position No.11. Laura Svaryte (190-C/F-92) paced Lithuania with 15 points and 7 rebounds. Monika Grigalauskyte (190-PF-92) (12 rebs) and Monika Petrauskaite (183-F-92) (6 rebs) netted 10 points each. In defeat, Marta Palenikova (184-G/F-92) scored 14 points and Angelika Oravcova (175-PG-92) had three less than her. Barbora Balintova (176-G-94) stopped to 8 pts in this loss. Lithuania was constantly in charge during the last ten minutes, despite Slovakia touched minus one with 7:55 to go. Quarters: 16-22, 25-10, 4-8, 12-14. Championship continues today.

Slovakia: Marta Palenikova 14, Angelika Oravcova 11, Barbora Balintova 8
Lithuania: Laura Svaryte 15+7 boards, Monika Grigalauskyte 10+12 boards, Monika Petrauskaite 10+6 boards


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  MALI   


U17 South Korea better than U17 Mali 57-39, takes 9th place in Amsterdam - by Eurobasket News

U17 SOUTH KOREA - U17 MALI 57-39

South Korea finished participation at FIBA U17 World Championship with victory. They downed Mali 57-39 to end as the ninth ranked team at this event. Mali finished as No.10. The Africans had impressive start limiting their rival to just 5 points for the entire Q1, while they scored 13 pts at the other side. However, all after that belonged to South Korea, who celebrated comfortable win at the end. Quarters: 5-13, 15-7, 24-7, 13-12. Park Ji Su (188-C-98) stepped up for South Korea with 12 points and 6 rebounds. An Heji (164-PG-97) (6 as, 5 rebs) and Kim Sion (173-PF-95) were their second scorers with 9 points each. At the other side, Mali got 21 points from Mariam Maiga (167-SG-96). Djeneba N'Diaye (165-PG-97) had 8 points and 7 rebounds, while all other Mali players had 10 points in total. Sunday is the last day of the competition in Amsterdam. As mentioned above, South Korea and Mali already played all of their games at this event.

South Korea: Park Ji Su 12+6 boards, An Heji 9+6 as+5 boards, Kim Sion 9
Mali: Mariam Maiga 21, Djeneba N'Diaye 8+7 boards


U17 Mali celebrates first win in Amsterdam - by Eurobasket News

U17 BRAZIL - U17 MALI 51-58

Mali was better than Brazil on Friday 58-51. It was the first game of the Classification Round from 9th-12th place at FIBA U19 World Championship in Amsterdam. Mali will meet South Korea today and the winner of that game will end as No.9 at this event. At the other side, Brazil will play against Turkey. The winner of that meeting will avoid last place in Amsterdam. Both games will be played today. Mali shined in the last quarter to beat Brazil: 13-12, 15-8, 12-21, 18-10. Mariam Maiga (167-SG-96) led Mali with 18 points and Djeneba N'Diaye (165-PG-97) added 10 points. Aissata Fomba (175-SG-95) followed them with 9 points and 10 rebs. In Brazil, Izabella Sangalli (184-SF-95) had double-double of 11 points and 10 rebs. Monique Soares (187-PF-97) impressed with 10 pts and 17 boards (MVP, valuation 25), while Carla Lucchini (165-PG-95) added 10 pts and 9 boards. Both teams will end their participation in Amsterdam today.

Brazil: Izabella Sangalli 11+10 boards, Monique Soares 10+17 boards, Carla Lucchini 10+9 boards
Mali: Mariam Maiga 18, Djeneba N'Diaye 10, Aissata Fomba 9+10 boards


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  NCAA1   


U17 USA extends winning streak in Amsterdam, advances to Semifinals - by Eurobasket News

U17 USA - U17 AUSTRALIA 89-68

USA handed 89-68 loss to Australia extending its winning streak to six at FIBA U19 World Championship in Amsterdam. Australia had better beginning of this game, but all after that belonged to USA. The Americans will meet Canada in the Semifinals. At the other side, Australia will continue in Classification Round from 5th to 8th place. Their first rival will be Holland. Diamond Deshields (6'1''-SF-95) had 19 points and 5 rebounds in this victory. Mercedes Russell (6'5''-C-95) shined with 18 points and 14 rebs (MVP, valuation 28), while Linnae Harper (5'7''-SG-95) added 13 points and 11 rebs. In defeat, Tiana Mangakahia (5'5''-PG-95) top-scored with 21 points and Abigail Wehrung (5'10''-G-95) added 19 pts, plus 5 rebs. Alicia Froling (6'2''-PF-96) collected 8 pts and 6 rebs. Quarters: 19-24, 22-13, 24-14, 24-17. Championship continues today.

USA: Diamond Deshields 19+5 boards, Mercedes Russell 18+14 boards, Linnae Harper 13+11 boards
Australia: Tiana Mangakahia 21, Abigail Wehrung 19+5 boards, Alicia Froling 8+6 boards


U17 USA heads to gold medal game in Amsterdam - by Eurobasket News

U17 CANADA - U17 USA 59-84

USA advanced to title game at FIBA U17 World Championship in Amsterdam. They handed 84-59 loss to Canada today in the Semis. USA is the defending champion and will meet Japan or Spain in the big final (will be known later tonight). Canada will play for bronze medal at this event. USA made 6-point lead in the first quarter and jumped to plus 9 at the halftime. The defending champ limited its rival to just 8 points for the entire Q3, while scoring 18 at the other side for 19-point lead with one period to go. Canada simply was not able to reply and USA had no troubles to celebrate comfortable victory. Linnae Harper (170-SG-95) had 11 points and 8 rebounds for the Americans. Oderah Chidom (190-PF-95) (7 rebs) and Kaela Davis (185-G/F-95) netted 10 points each. Each of USA players scored at least 2 pts in this meeting. Canada got 14 points from Kia Nurse (177-PG-96) and Emma Wolfram (193-C-95). Emily Potter (195-C-95) stopped to one point less and 6 rebounds. Sunday is the last day of the competition in Amsterdam.

Canada: Kia Nurse 14, Emma Wolfram 14, Emily Potter 13+6 boards
USA: Linnae Harper 11+8 boards, Oderah Chidom 10+7 boards, Kaela Davis 10


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  NEW ZEALAND   


Sparks take out WBC title - by Eurobasket News

Nelson Sparks have taken out the 2012 Womens Basketball Championship, trouncing Waitakere West Auckland 61-40 in the final at Dunedin.

Last years runners-up maintained their unbeaten record through the playoffs tournament, taking the initiative with a nine-point run in the opening quarter and never looking back. They had a 17-point lead at halftime and their advantage never fell below 14 over the final 20 minutes.

Nelson Sparks have taken out the 2012 Womens Basketball Championship, trouncing Waitakere West Auckland 61-40 in the final at Dunedin.
Last years runners-up maintained their unbeaten record through the playoffs tournament, taking the initiative with a nine-point run in the opening quarter and never looking back. They had a 17-point lead at halftime and their advantage never fell below 14 over the final 20 minutes.

In a line-up filled with experienced performers, Nelson were led by youngsters Jessica Bygate (187-F-92) (10 points/12 rebounds) and Shannon Perrett (11 points), supported by the balanced scoring of Jodi Hikuroa, Lisa Book and Jane Gowans (eight points each).

The Sparks dominated the boards, grabbing 20 offensive rebounds and outscoring their rivals 20-8 in the paint. Defensively, they held the Rangers to just 20% shooting from the field, blocking six shots in the process five by veteran centre Nicky Rampton.

Only Junior Tall Ferns forward Penina Davidson (189-F-95) offered any answer for debutants Waitakere, scoring 15 points from 9/11 free-throw shooting.

Defending champions Otago Oceana Goldrush defeated previous champions Harbour Breeze 54-49, while Waikato Wizards took out the plate final, overrunning Canterbury Wildcats 68-46.

Womens Basketball Championship
Edgar Centre, Dunedin
Saturday, August 25
9am
Ninth/10th playoff Southland Kelvin Hotel Pearls 51 (Elise Cassidy (171-G-87) 15, Te Huinga Selby Rickett 13) Rotorua Lady Vols 53 (Danielle Marks (168-G-97) 18, Hana Tapiata 12)

11am
Third/fourth playoff Harbour Breeze 49 (Shinae Blair (175-G-93) 12, Jody Cameron 10, Halsey Ward 10) Otago Oceana Goldrush 54 (Soraya Umaga-Jensen 22)

Fifth/sixth playoff Taranaki Trojans 58 (Toni Sharader 14, Hannah Flemming (86) 13, Terai Sadler 13) Hutt Valley Flyers 81 (Lisa Scott 19, Margaret Scott 16, Jacinta Beckley 14)

2pm
Seventh/eighth playoff (Plate Final) Waikato Wizards 68 (Rhaiah Spoonter-Knight 22, Miriam Slatter 13, Natasha Lenden 13, Walker 10) Canterbury Wildcats 46 (Pip Connell 12, Courtney Hamblin 10)

4pm
Championship Final Nelson Sparks 61 (Shannon Perrett 11, Jessica Bygate 10) Waitakere West Auckland 40 (Penina Davidson 15)

Courtesy of: http://www.basketball.org.nz


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  POLAND   


U20 Poland beats U20 Serbia in double overtime thriller, 72-66 - by Eurobasket News

U20 POLAND - U20 SERBIA 72-66 2OT

Poland grabbed 72-66 double overtime win against Serbia in the first game of the Classification Round from 9th-12th place. Today, Poland will meet Lithuania and winner of that game with finish as No.9 of U20 EuroBasket in Debrecein. Serbia will meet Slovakia in the battle for 11th place. It was a heartbreaking thriller and Poland shined in the second OT to take the victory. Quarters: 7-16, 12-13, 9-8, 20-11, 10-10 OT1, 14-8 OT2. Martyna Stelmach (187-F/C-92) stepped up for the winners with 18 points and 8 rebounds. Magdalena Zietara (170-G/F-92) had 12 points and 6 assists, while Dorota Mistygacz (183-F/C-92) helped with double-double of 11 points and 10 rebs. In Serbia, Natasa Kovacevic (187-F-94) delivered 15 points, while Milica Toskovic (187-G-93) added 11 pts and 5 rebs. Snezana Colic (178-G-92) collected 10 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists in this game. Both teams will play their last games in Debrecen today.

Poland: Martyna Stelmach 18+8 boards, Magdalena Zietara 12+6 as, Dorota Mistygacz 11+10 boards
Serbia: Natasa Kovacevic 15, Milica Toskovic 11+5 boards, Snezana Colic 10+7 boards+6 as


U20 Lithuania takes 9th place in Debrecen after 78-76 double OT win against U20 Poland - by Eurobasket News

U20 POLAND - U20 LITHUANIA 76-78 2OT

Second straight double overtime game for Poland. They outplayed Serbia on Friday, but today Lithuania grabbed 78-76 thriller win against Poland after two extra times. It was a game for 9th place at U20 EuroBasket in Debrecen. Santa Okockyte (176-PG-92) made a winning lay-up for Lithuania with 3 seconds remaining in second OT and Poland had no chance to reply. Monika Grigalauskyte (190-PF-92) led the winners with 23 points and 11 rebounds. Game hero Okockyte had 17 points and Laura Svaryte (190-C/F-92) added 15 points, plus 14 rebounds. Svaryte was MVP of this meeting with valuation 28. In Poland, Monika Jasnowska (182-G/F-92) was better than the others with 26 points. Magdalena Idziorek (178-G-92) (7 as) and Martyna Stelmach (187-F/C-92) (7 rebs) had 16 and 11 points respectively. Both teams finished their participation in Debrecen. Lithuania is No.9 and Poland is No.10. Spain and Russia will fight for the gold medal again.

Poland: Monika Jasnowska 26, Magdalena Idziorek 16+7 as, Martyna Stelmach 11+7 boards
Lithuania: Monika Grigalauskyte 23+11 boards, Santa Okockyte 17, Laura Svaryte 15+14 boards


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  PORTUGAL   


U20 Italy is one win away from the survival in Division A - by Eurobasket News

U20 PORTUGAL - U20 ITALY 52-56

Italy celebrated its fourth straight victory in Group G of U20 EuroBasket. They downed Portugal 56-52 for 4-0 record in this pool. After this win Italy is very close to survival in Division A and actually victory against UK today would be enough. At the other side, Portugal dropped to 2-2 and they are in very difficult situation now. Giovanna Pertile (182-F-92) led the winners with 9 points and 10 rebounds. Francesca Dotto (170-PG-93) and Nene Diene (169-PG-92) also scored 9 points each in this victory. At the other side, Jessica Almeida (172-PG-93) delivered 12 points and Daniela Domingues (176-G/F-92) added 11 pts, plus 10 boards. Laura Ferreira (177-G-95) stopped to 9 pts in this loss. Italy was better in the last ten minutes to take the victory in this meeting. Quarters: 16-15, 10-16, 10-7, 20-14. Today, Italy will meet UK. Portugal will play against Latvia.

Portugal: Jessica Almeida 12, Daniela Domingues 11+10 boards, Laura Ferreira 9
Italy: Giovanna Pertile 9+10 boards, Francesca Dotto 9, Nene Diene 9


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  PUERTO RICO   


Piratas improve to 2-0 after dominating Leonas: - by Luis Modestti

Piratas de Quebradillas dominated Leonas de Ponce 79-48 to improve their record to 2-0 and sit on top of the league.

Leonas had a 9-8 advantage in the middle of the first quarter and after a 12-12 tie Piratas made a 14-0 run to finish the first quarter up 26-12.

The hosts continued to increase their lead by winning the first half 40-23 and at the end of the third quarter the score was 65-32.

Melissa Lechlitner (170-G-88, college: Notre Dame) had 18 points, Becca Bruszewski 14 and Karen Colon 10 for the winners.

Jessica Fairweather netted 21 for Ponce and they are in last place with a 0-3 record.

Today Leonas de Ponce play home against Atleticas de San German.


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  ROMANIA   


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

U20 BULGARIA - U20 ROMANIA 82-87 OT

Romania had to work very hard to beat Bulgaria in Day Seven of U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. It was a 87-82 OT win for Romania, who jumped to 4-3 record. At the other side, Bulgaria dropped to 0-6. Bulgaria was up by 11 at the halftime, but Romania improved after the breather and later made 12-7 in OT to take the victory in this meeting. Gabriela Cursaru (169-PG-92) shined for the winners with 24 points and 6 rebounds. Dora Ardelean (186-PF-94) with 19 points and 5 rebs, while Sonia Ursu (175-SG-93) added 16 pts, 8 rebs and 5 assists. In defeat, Gabriela Kostova (192-C-94) was better than the others with 22 points and 14 rebounds. Iva Kostova (178-SG-94) had 16 points and 9 rebs, while Mariya Svetoslavova (179-F/G-93) stopped to 13 pts. Romania will have a dayoff today. Bulgaria will meet Switzerland.

Bulgaria: Gabriela Kostova 22+14 boards, Iva Kostova 16+9 boards, Mariya Svetoslavova 13
Romania: Gabriela Cursaru 24+6 boards, Dora Ardelean 19+5 boards, Sonia Ursu 16+8 boards+5 as


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  RUSSIA   


U20 Russia advances to title game in Debrecen - by Eurobasket News

U20 RUSSIA - U20 HOLLAND 73-55

Russia cruised past Holland 73-55 in the Semifinals of U20 EuroBasket in Debrecen. It means that Russia advanced to the gold medal game, where they will meet winner of Spain - Turkey matchup. Holland will fight for third place against one of these two teams (will be known later tonight). Alexandra Stolyar (178-G-92) top-scored in Russia with 16 points and Ksenia Tikhonenko (190-F/C-93, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav) helped with impressive double-double of 13 points and 17 rebounds. She was the MVP of this game with valuation 23. Yulia Poluyanova (187-F-92) added 12 pts and 5 rebounds in victory. At the other side, Holland got 17 points from Zera Butter (179-G-92), who missed all of her 7 attempts from behind the arc. Jamailah Adams (180-G/F-93) had 12 points and 8 rebounds, and Marlou De Kleijn (182-F-92, agency: Regeneracom Sports) followed with 11 pts and 5 boards. Russia was up by 3 at the halftime and jumped to plus 6 with 10 minutes remaining in the game. They totally took control on Holland in the last quarter (23-11) to celebrate comfortable win at the end. Sunday is the last day of the championship in Debrecen.
It is important to mention that Russia lost to Spain a year ago in the title game 53-62.

Russia: Alexandra Stolyar 16, Ksenia Tikhonenko 13+17 boards, Yulia Poluyanova 12+5 boards
Holland: Zera Butter 17, Jamailah Adams 12+8 boards, Marlou De Kleijn 11+5 boards


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  SERBIA   


U20 Serbia beats U20 Slovakia 67-61 for 11th place in Debrecen - by Eurobasket News

U20 SERBIA - U20 SLOVAKIA 67-61

Serbia won 11th place at U20 EuroBasket in Debrecen. They handed 67-61 loss to Slovakia in their last game at this event. Slovakia finished as No.12. Serbia was down by 3 points with ten minutes to go, but they closed this meeting with 19-10 for 6-point win at the end. Quarters: 18-18, 17-17, 13-16, 19-10. Ivana Brajkovic (195-C-93) was a key player in Serbia with 28 points and 9 rebounds. She was the MVP of this game with valuation 22. Aleksandra Stanacev (167-PG-94) had 9 points and 5 rebounds, while Natasa Kovacevic (187-F-94) added 8 pts. In defeat, Zofia Hruscakova (190-C-95) delivered 12 points and Marta Palenikova (184-G/F-92) had 10 pts, plus 6 rebounds. Angelika Oravcova (175-PG-92) also scored 10 pts in this loss. As mentioned, both teams ended their participation in Debrecen, despite the last day of the competition is Sunday.

Serbia: Ivana Brajkovic 28+9 boards, Aleksandra Stanacev 9+5 boards, Natasa Kovacevic 8
Slovakia: Zofia Hruscakova 12, Marta Palenikova 10+6 boards, Angelika Oravcova 10


U20 Poland beats U20 Serbia in double overtime thriller, 72-66 - by Eurobasket News

U20 POLAND - U20 SERBIA 72-66 2OT

Poland grabbed 72-66 double overtime win against Serbia in the first game of the Classification Round from 9th-12th place. Today, Poland will meet Lithuania and winner of that game with finish as No.9 of U20 EuroBasket in Debrecein. Serbia will meet Slovakia in the battle for 11th place. It was a heartbreaking thriller and Poland shined in the second OT to take the victory. Quarters: 7-16, 12-13, 9-8, 20-11, 10-10 OT1, 14-8 OT2. Martyna Stelmach (187-F/C-92) stepped up for the winners with 18 points and 8 rebounds. Magdalena Zietara (170-G/F-92) had 12 points and 6 assists, while Dorota Mistygacz (183-F/C-92) helped with double-double of 11 points and 10 rebs. In Serbia, Natasa Kovacevic (187-F-94) delivered 15 points, while Milica Toskovic (187-G-93) added 11 pts and 5 rebs. Snezana Colic (178-G-92) collected 10 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists in this game. Both teams will play their last games in Debrecen today.

Poland: Martyna Stelmach 18+8 boards, Magdalena Zietara 12+6 as, Dorota Mistygacz 11+10 boards
Serbia: Natasa Kovacevic 15, Milica Toskovic 11+5 boards, Snezana Colic 10+7 boards+6 as


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  SLOVAKIA   


U20 Lithuania better than U20 Slovakia 57-54 - by Eurobasket News

U20 SLOVAKIA - U20 LITHUANIA 54-57

Lithuania made a first step forward to 9th place at U20 EuroBasket in Debrecin. They grabbed 57-54 win over Slovakia on Friday. Today, Lithuania will meet Poland and winner of that game will take 9th place at this event. Slovakia will meet Serbia in the battle for position No.11. Laura Svaryte (190-C/F-92) paced Lithuania with 15 points and 7 rebounds. Monika Grigalauskyte (190-PF-92) (12 rebs) and Monika Petrauskaite (183-F-92) (6 rebs) netted 10 points each. In defeat, Marta Palenikova (184-G/F-92) scored 14 points and Angelika Oravcova (175-PG-92) had three less than her. Barbora Balintova (176-G-94) stopped to 8 pts in this loss. Lithuania was constantly in charge during the last ten minutes, despite Slovakia touched minus one with 7:55 to go. Quarters: 16-22, 25-10, 4-8, 12-14. Championship continues today.

Slovakia: Marta Palenikova 14, Angelika Oravcova 11, Barbora Balintova 8
Lithuania: Laura Svaryte 15+7 boards, Monika Grigalauskyte 10+12 boards, Monika Petrauskaite 10+6 boards


U20 Serbia beats U20 Slovakia 67-61 for 11th place in Debrecen - by Eurobasket News

U20 SERBIA - U20 SLOVAKIA 67-61

Serbia won 11th place at U20 EuroBasket in Debrecen. They handed 67-61 loss to Slovakia in their last game at this event. Slovakia finished as No.12. Serbia was down by 3 points with ten minutes to go, but they closed this meeting with 19-10 for 6-point win at the end. Quarters: 18-18, 17-17, 13-16, 19-10. Ivana Brajkovic (195-C-93) was a key player in Serbia with 28 points and 9 rebounds. She was the MVP of this game with valuation 22. Aleksandra Stanacev (167-PG-94) had 9 points and 5 rebounds, while Natasa Kovacevic (187-F-94) added 8 pts. In defeat, Zofia Hruscakova (190-C-95) delivered 12 points and Marta Palenikova (184-G/F-92) had 10 pts, plus 6 rebounds. Angelika Oravcova (175-PG-92) also scored 10 pts in this loss. As mentioned, both teams ended their participation in Debrecen, despite the last day of the competition is Sunday.

Serbia: Ivana Brajkovic 28+9 boards, Aleksandra Stanacev 9+5 boards, Natasa Kovacevic 8
Slovakia: Zofia Hruscakova 12, Marta Palenikova 10+6 boards, Angelika Oravcova 10


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  SOUTH KOREA   


U17 South Korea beats U17 Turkey 82-79 - by Eurobasket News

U17 SOUTH KOREA - U17 TURKEY 82-79

South Korea made a first step forward to 9th place at FIBA U17 World Championship in Amsterdam. They grabbed 82-79 victory against Turkey on Friday. In order to take the position No.9 South Korea will have to beat Mali. Turkey will play against Brazil and winner will avoid last place at this event. Shin Jihyun (173-SG-95) led South Korea with 21 points, while Park Jieun (183-C-95) added 13 points and 14 rebounds (MVP, valuation 29). Kim Heejin (168-SF-95) also scored 13 pts in this meeting. In Turkey, Melis Gulcan (185-SF-96) collected 21 points and 6 rebounds. Ezgi Manlaci (172-SF-96) had 18 points and Sinem Atas (182-PF-95) added 16 pts, 11 rebs and 6 assists. Korea shined in the last ten minutes to take the victory in this meeting. Quarters: 19-20, 18-17, 14-22, 31-20. Both teams will play their last games in Amsterdam today.

South Korea: Shin Jihyun 21, Park Jieun 13+14 boards, Kim Heejin 13
Turkey: Melis Gulcan 21+6 boards, Ezgi Manlaci 18, Sinem Atas 16+11 boards+6 as


U17 South Korea better than U17 Mali 57-39, takes 9th place in Amsterdam - by Eurobasket News

U17 SOUTH KOREA - U17 MALI 57-39

South Korea finished participation at FIBA U17 World Championship with victory. They downed Mali 57-39 to end as the ninth ranked team at this event. Mali finished as No.10. The Africans had impressive start limiting their rival to just 5 points for the entire Q1, while they scored 13 pts at the other side. However, all after that belonged to South Korea, who celebrated comfortable win at the end. Quarters: 5-13, 15-7, 24-7, 13-12. Park Ji Su (188-C-98) stepped up for South Korea with 12 points and 6 rebounds. An Heji (164-PG-97) (6 as, 5 rebs) and Kim Sion (173-PF-95) were their second scorers with 9 points each. At the other side, Mali got 21 points from Mariam Maiga (167-SG-96). Djeneba N'Diaye (165-PG-97) had 8 points and 7 rebounds, while all other Mali players had 10 points in total. Sunday is the last day of the competition in Amsterdam. As mentioned above, South Korea and Mali already played all of their games at this event.

South Korea: Park Ji Su 12+6 boards, An Heji 9+6 as+5 boards, Kim Sion 9
Mali: Mariam Maiga 21, Djeneba N'Diaye 8+7 boards


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  SPAIN   


Spain cruises past Italy in the QFinals of FIBA U17 World Championship - by Eurobasket News

U17 ITALY - U17 SPAIN 39-67

Spain had an easy job against Italy in the Quarterfinals of FIBA U17 World Championship in Amsterdam. Spain celebrated 67-39 win and will meet Japan in the Semifinals. Italy will be transferred to Classification Round from 5th-8th place and their first rival will be Belgium. Spain was better team during the entire game, especially in the second half. Quarters: 13-10, 13-9, 18-11, 23-9. Laura Quevedo (185-PF-96) was the leading player in victory with 19 points and 9 rebounds. Marina Lizarazu (172-PG-95) and Ariadna Pujol (183-PG-95) netted 14 and 11 pts respectively. In Italy, Elisa Penna (186-SG-95) had 8 points and Giulia Porro (166-PG-95) added two less. Championship continues today. In the other Semifinals, USA will meet Canada. USA is the defending champion in Amsterdam.

Italy: Elisa Penna 8, Giulia Porro 6
Spain: Laura Quevedo 19+9 boards, Marina Lizarazu 14, Ariadna Pujol 11


Spain eliminates Turkey in U20 EuroBasket Semifinals, 58-50 - by Eurobasket News

U20 SPAIN - U20 TURKEY 58-50

Spain will have a chance to defend the title at U20 EuroBasket in Debrecen. Their rival will be Russia, same as last year. Spain celebrated 62-53 victory in Novi Sad to win the gold medal in 2011 edition. Today, Spain handed 58-50 loss to Turkey in the Semis. Spain was up by 15 at the halftime, but Turkey shined after the breather closing the gap to 6 pts with ten minutes remaining. They even took 3-point lead with 6:54 to go, but Spain closed this meeting with impressive 15-4 run. Laura Gil (190-C-92, agency: Josep and Nicolas) had 12 points and 7 rebounds in Spain, while Inmaculada Zanoguera (177-G/F-93) followed her with 11 points and 7 rebs. Mariona Ortiz (183-F/G-92) also posted 11 points in this victory. Turkey got 12 points and 7 rebounds from Olcay Cakir (180-PG-93), and Ayse Cora (175-G/F-93) posted 11 pts. Merve Aydin (174-PG-94) collected 10 points and 5 rebs. Turkey will meet Holland in the battle for bronze medal.

Spain: Laura Gil 12+7 boards, Inmaculada Zanoguera 11+7 boards, Mariona Ortiz 11
Turkey: Olcay Cakir 12+7 boards, Ayse Cora 11, Merve Aydin 10+5 boards


Spain cruises past Japan 91-62, advances to title game at FIBA U17 World Championship - by Eurobasket News

U17 SPAIN - U17 JAPAN 91-62

Spain did a great job against Japan tonight in Amsterdam. It was the Semifinals game of FIBA U17 World Championship and Spain celebrated huge 91-62 win against its rival advancing to the Big Final. There, Spain will meet defending champion USA. Two years ago USA eliminated Spain in the Quarterfinals. At the other side, Japan will play against Canada in bronze medal game. Spain made 10-point lead already in the first quarter and later they jumped to plus 17 with 10 minutes remaining in the game. They totally took control on Japan in Q4 (23-11) to end this matchup in style. Leticia Romero (176-SG-95) paced Spain with 27 points and 5 assists. Maria Arrojo (186-F-85) also was great adding 21 points and 6 rebs, while Marina Lizarazu (172-PG-95) helped with 13 points and 6 rebs. In defeat, Ai Yamada (167-SG-95) and Ayane Itani (172-SF-95) posted 14 and 13 points respectively. Yunika Nakamura (177-PF-95) collected 11 points and 5 boards in this defeat. Both gold and bronze medal games will be played tomorrow.

Spain: Leticia Romero 27+5 as, Maria Arrojo 21+6 boards, Marina Lizarazu 13+6 boards
Japan: Ai Yamada 14, Ayane Itani 13, Yunika Nakamura 11+5 boards


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  SWEDEN   


Abdi and Drammeh lead U20 Sweden to 81-76 win over U20 Ukraine - by Eurobasket News

U20 SWEDEN - U20 UKRAINE 81-76

Sweden made a first step forward to 5th place at U20 EuroBasket in Debrecen. They downed Ukraine today 81-76. Sweden will have to beat France tomorrow in order to end as No.5. Ukraine will play against Belarus for seventh place. Farhiya Abdi (188-F-92) shined with 20 points and 6 rebounds for the winners, while their best player was Binta Drammeh (180-F-92) with double-double of 19 points and 15 rebs (MVP, valuation 26). Elin Gustavsson (185-F-93) helped her team with 13 points. In the loosing squad, Alina Iagupova (186-G-92, agency: LBM Management) was close to triple-double collecting 39 points, 10 rebounds and 6 assists. However, she missed too many shots and finished with valuation 23, what was not enough for the MVP award in this game. Lyudmyla Naumenko (184-F-93) had 12 points and 9 rebounds, while Anna Kiriyenko (190-C-93) scored 10 pts. Teams were tied at 43-43 at the halfway of Q4 and Sweden jumped to 69-55 with 7:16 remaining in the game. That was too much for Ukraine. Sunday is the last game of the championship in Debrecen.

Sweden: Farhiya Abdi 20+6 boards, Binta Drammeh 19+15 boards, Elin Gustavsson 13
Ukraine: Alina Iagupova 39+10 boards+6 as, Lyudmyla Naumenko 12+9 boards, Anna Kiriyenko 10


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  SWITZERLAND   


U20 Czech Republic celebrates fourth win in Klatovy - by Eurobasket News

U20 CZECH REPUBLIC - U20 SWITZERLAND 71-42

Czech Republic jumped to 4-2 record in Klatovy. They blasted Switzerland in Day Seven of U20 EuroBasket Division B sharing the third place with Germany. At the other side, Switzerland dropped to 1-5. Czech Republic took control on its rival from the very beginning and never looked back. Quarters: 29-14, 11-10, 12-6, 19-12. Dominika Pohunkova (176-G-94) was their best player with 20 points. Barbora Kasparkova (181-F/C-92) had 13 points and 10 rebs, while Pamela-Therese Effangova (175-SF-93) added 8 pts. In defeat, Melissa Favre (184-PF-92) collected 8 points and 5 rebs. Nadege Clement (184-C-93) (6 rebs) and Ljubica Cutunic (186-SF-94) (5 rebs) netted 6 points each. Czech Republic will meet Germany today and it will be a very important game for both teams. Switzerland will take on Bulgaria.

Czech Republic: Dominika Pohunkova 20, Barbora Kasparkova 13+10 boards, Pamela-Therese Effangova 8
Switzerland: Melissa Favre 8+5 boards, Nadege Clement 6+6 boards, Ljubica Cutunic 6+5 boards


First win for Bulgaria at U20 EuroBasket Division B - by Eurobasket News

U20 SWITZERLAND - U20 BULGARIA 38-69

Bulgaria finally registered first victory at U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. They blasted Switzerland 69-38 and both teams have 1-6 record now. Thanks to this win Bulgaria will most likely avoid last place at this event, but everything will be clear tomorrow. Bulgaria exploded in the second half to take the comfortable win in this meeting (9-15, 6-8, 9-22, 14-24). Viktoriya Stoycheva (171-PG-92) had 12 points and 5 rebounds in victory and Kristina Peychinova (176-SG-94) added 11 pts. Mariya Svetoslavova (179-F/G-93) added 10 points and 7 boards. In Switzerland, Vanessa Dorestant (170-G-92) was better than the others with 11 points. Alix Rieder (168-PG-93) stopped to 8 pts in this loss. In the last day of the competition Bulgaria will meet Germany. Switzerland will take on Romania.

Switzerland: Vanessa Dorestant 11, Alix Rieder 8
Bulgaria: Viktoriya Stoycheva 12+5 boards, Kristina Peychinova 11, Mariya Svetoslavova 10+7 boards


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  TURKEY   


U17 Brazil defeats U17 Turkey 66-61 to avoid last place in Amsterdam - by Eurobasket News

U17 TURKEY - U17 BRAZIL 61-66

It was a matchup for 11th place at FIBA U17 World Championship in Amsterdam. Brazil celebrated 66-61 victory thanks to well played last ten minutes of the game. It means that Brazil ended as No.11, while Turkey is the last ranked team at this event. Carla Lucchini (165-PG-95) scored 18 points for the winners and Daphner Pezavento (190-C-95) helped with double-double of 14 points and 10 rebounds. Izabella Sangalli (184-SF-95) followed them with 13 points and 8 boards. In the loosing squad, Melis Gulcan (185-SF-96) and Sinem Atas (182-PF-95) had 18 points and 6 rebounds each. Hulya Coklar (188-C-95) stopped to 10 points and 9 rebs. Turkey had 2-point lead after 30 minutes of play, but Brazil shined when it mattered most and closed this game with 21-14 for 66-61 win at the end. Turkey finished as the only winless team in Amsterdam (0-7). Both teams already finished participation at this event, which will officially end tomorrow.

Turkey: Melis Gulcan 18+6 boards, Sinem Atas 18+6 boards, Hulya Coklar 10+9 boards
Brazil: Carla Lucchini 18, Daphner Pezavento 14+10 boards, Izabella Sangalli 13+8 boards


U17 South Korea beats U17 Turkey 82-79 - by Eurobasket News

U17 SOUTH KOREA - U17 TURKEY 82-79

South Korea made a first step forward to 9th place at FIBA U17 World Championship in Amsterdam. They grabbed 82-79 victory against Turkey on Friday. In order to take the position No.9 South Korea will have to beat Mali. Turkey will play against Brazil and winner will avoid last place at this event. Shin Jihyun (173-SG-95) led South Korea with 21 points, while Park Jieun (183-C-95) added 13 points and 14 rebounds (MVP, valuation 29). Kim Heejin (168-SF-95) also scored 13 pts in this meeting. In Turkey, Melis Gulcan (185-SF-96) collected 21 points and 6 rebounds. Ezgi Manlaci (172-SF-96) had 18 points and Sinem Atas (182-PF-95) added 16 pts, 11 rebs and 6 assists. Korea shined in the last ten minutes to take the victory in this meeting. Quarters: 19-20, 18-17, 14-22, 31-20. Both teams will play their last games in Amsterdam today.

South Korea: Shin Jihyun 21, Park Jieun 13+14 boards, Kim Heejin 13
Turkey: Melis Gulcan 21+6 boards, Ezgi Manlaci 18, Sinem Atas 16+11 boards+6 as


Turkey advances to Semifinals of U20 EuroBasket in Debrecen - by Eurobasket News

U20 TURKEY - U20 BELARUS 66-61

Turkey extended its winning streak at U20 EuroBasket in Debrecen. They downed Belarus 66-61 in the Quarterfinals and booked a spot for the Semis. There, Turkey will meet Spain. Ayse Cora (175-G/F-93) (5 rebs) and Pelin Bilgic (173-G-94) led the winners with 12 points each. Merve Aydin (174-PG-94) followed them with 10 points and 7 rebs. In Belarus, Maryia Papova (186-PF-94) (7 rebs) and Aliaksandra Musatava (174-SG-92) scored 16 points apiece, and Maryia Filonchyk (187-PF-92) posted 15 points in this defeat. Turkey had 48-42 lead after 30 minutes, but Belarus closed the gap to 3 pts soon after that. Ayse Cora and her teammates shined when it mattered most and stayed in charge for rest of the game. Championship continues today. As mentioned above, Turkey will meet Spain, while Belarus will play against France. It will be the first game of the Classification Round from 5th-8th place.

Turkey: Ayse Cora 12+5 boards, Pelin Bilgic 12, Merve Aydin 10+7 boards
Belarus: Maryia Papova 16+7 boards, Aliaksandra Musatava 16, Maryia Filonchyk 15


Spain eliminates Turkey in U20 EuroBasket Semifinals, 58-50 - by Eurobasket News

U20 SPAIN - U20 TURKEY 58-50

Spain will have a chance to defend the title at U20 EuroBasket in Debrecen. Their rival will be Russia, same as last year. Spain celebrated 62-53 victory in Novi Sad to win the gold medal in 2011 edition. Today, Spain handed 58-50 loss to Turkey in the Semis. Spain was up by 15 at the halftime, but Turkey shined after the breather closing the gap to 6 pts with ten minutes remaining. They even took 3-point lead with 6:54 to go, but Spain closed this meeting with impressive 15-4 run. Laura Gil (190-C-92, agency: Josep and Nicolas) had 12 points and 7 rebounds in Spain, while Inmaculada Zanoguera (177-G/F-93) followed her with 11 points and 7 rebs. Mariona Ortiz (183-F/G-92) also posted 11 points in this victory. Turkey got 12 points and 7 rebounds from Olcay Cakir (180-PG-93), and Ayse Cora (175-G/F-93) posted 11 pts. Merve Aydin (174-PG-94) collected 10 points and 5 rebs. Turkey will meet Holland in the battle for bronze medal.

Spain: Laura Gil 12+7 boards, Inmaculada Zanoguera 11+7 boards, Mariona Ortiz 11
Turkey: Olcay Cakir 12+7 boards, Ayse Cora 11, Merve Aydin 10+5 boards


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  UKRAINE   


Holland downs Ukraine in U20 EuroBasket QFinals, 71-63 - by Eurobasket News

U20 UKRAINE - U20 HOLLAND 63-71

Holland had another great game in Debrecen. This time they downed Ukraine 71-63 in the Quarterfinals of U20 EuroBasket and will meet Russia in the Semis. Ukraine will continue in Classification Round from 5th-8th place at this event. Their first rival will be Sweden. Holland had 3-point lead at the half time and after that made impressive 19-9 in Q3. Ukraine came to minus 7 in the last quarter, but it was all from them in this meeting. Marlou De Kleijn (182-F-92, agency: Regeneracom Sports) stepped up for the winners with 23 points and Zera Butter (179-G-92) added 14. Sharon Lammerink (189-C-93) posted 12 pts in this victory. At the other side, Alina Iagupova (186-G-92, agency: LBM Management) collected 21 points and 11 rebounds, but she made only 2 of 10 attempts from behind the arc. Oleksandra Chek (191-C-93, agency: New Trend Agency) (7 rebs) and Lyudmyla Naumenko (184-F-93) scored 13 points each. Semifinals, as well as first games of Classification Round from 5th-8th place, will be played today.

Ukraine: Alina Iagupova 21+11 boards, Oleksandra Chek 13+7 boards, Lyudmyla Naumenko 13
Holland: Marlou De Kleijn 23, Zera Butter 14, Sharon Lammerink 12


Abdi and Drammeh lead U20 Sweden to 81-76 win over U20 Ukraine - by Eurobasket News

U20 SWEDEN - U20 UKRAINE 81-76

Sweden made a first step forward to 5th place at U20 EuroBasket in Debrecen. They downed Ukraine today 81-76. Sweden will have to beat France tomorrow in order to end as No.5. Ukraine will play against Belarus for seventh place. Farhiya Abdi (188-F-92) shined with 20 points and 6 rebounds for the winners, while their best player was Binta Drammeh (180-F-92) with double-double of 19 points and 15 rebs (MVP, valuation 26). Elin Gustavsson (185-F-93) helped her team with 13 points. In the loosing squad, Alina Iagupova (186-G-92, agency: LBM Management) was close to triple-double collecting 39 points, 10 rebounds and 6 assists. However, she missed too many shots and finished with valuation 23, what was not enough for the MVP award in this game. Lyudmyla Naumenko (184-F-93) had 12 points and 9 rebounds, while Anna Kiriyenko (190-C-93) scored 10 pts. Teams were tied at 43-43 at the halfway of Q4 and Sweden jumped to 69-55 with 7:16 remaining in the game. That was too much for Ukraine. Sunday is the last game of the championship in Debrecen.

Sweden: Farhiya Abdi 20+6 boards, Binta Drammeh 19+15 boards, Elin Gustavsson 13
Ukraine: Alina Iagupova 39+10 boards+6 as, Lyudmyla Naumenko 12+9 boards, Anna Kiriyenko 10


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  UNITED KINGDOM   


U20 Latvia jumps to 2-2 in Group G - by Eurobasket News

U20 UNITED KINGDOM - U20 LATVIA 61-72

Latvia registered second win in Group G of U20 EuroBasket in Debrecen. They handed 71-61 loss to UK on Friday. After this win Latvia kept their hopes alive for the survival in Division A, but it will be very difficult task as Italy already has 4-0 in this pool. UK dropped to 0-4. Sabine Dukate (174-F-93) netted 18 points for the winners and Dita Rozenberga (181-F-92) added 14 pts. Ance Aizsila (175-G-94) followed them with 12 pts. In the loosing squad, Jessica Hurd (185-C-92) was better than the others with 14 points and 7 rebounds. Erin McGarrachan (182-G-92) had 12 points and 5 rebs, while Olufemi Hamilton (170-G-93) stopped to 9 pts and 6 rebs. Quaretrs: 16-11, 12-14, 25-16, 19-20. In the next game Latvia will meet Portugal. UK will take on Italy.

UK: Jessica Hurd 14+7 boards, Erin McGarrachan 12+5 boards, Olufemi Hamilton 9+6 boards
Latvia: Sabine Dukate 18, Dita Rozenberga 14, Ance Aizsila 12


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  VENEZUELA   

D1 STANDING

LINABAFE Standings
Central
 1. Bucaneras 0-0 
 2. EPB 0-0 
 3. Estudiantes 0-0 
 4. U15 NT 0-0 
West
 1. Yaracuyanas 1-0 
 2. Aguilas 0-0 
 3. Guerreras 0-0 
 4. Otras 0-0 
 5. Juveniles 0-1 

Regular Season: Round 1

Aug. 24: Yaracuyanas - Felinas
Aug. 25: Aguilas - Petroleras
Aug. 25: EPB - Estudiantes
Aug. 25: Yaracuyanas - Felinas
Aug. 26: Aguilas - Petroleras
Aug. 26: EPB - Estudiantes



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  WNBA   

Standings

WNBA Standings
Eastern
 1. Connecticut S. 17-5 
 2. Indiana F. 14-8 
 3. Atlanta D. 12-12 
 4. New York L. 9-14 
 5. Chicago S. 8-14 
 6. Washington M. 6-18 
Western
 1. Minnesota L. 19-4 
 2. L.Angeles S. 18-7 
 3. S.Antonio SS 17-6 
 4. Seattle S. 11-13 
 5. Phoenix M. 4-19 
 6. Tulsa S. 4-19 

Regular Season: Round 28

Aug. 25: S.Antonio SS - Tulsa S. 91-71
Aug. 25: L.Angeles S. - New York L. 87-62
Aug. 24: Tulsa S. - Chicago S. 81-78 OT
Aug. 25: Atlanta D. - Minnesota L. 74-84
Aug. 25: Phoenix M. - Indiana F. 72-85
Aug. 24: Washington M. - Atlanta D. 69-81

Regular Season: Round 29

Aug. 26: Connecticut S. - Chicago S.
Aug. 26: Seattle S. - New York L.
Aug. 28: Indiana F. - Washington M.
Aug. 28: Atlanta D. - Tulsa S.
Aug. 28: Minnesota L. - S.Antonio SS
Aug. 28: Chicago S. - Connecticut S.



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  WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS U17   


Day 7: USA and Spain advance to title game in Amsterdam - by Eurobasket News

SEMIFINALS

Canada - USA 59-84
USA advanced to title game at FIBA U17 World Championship in Amsterdam. They handed 84-59 loss to Canada today in the Semis. USA is the defending champion and will meet Spain in the big final. Canada will play for bronze medal at this event against Japan. USA made 6-point lead in the first quarter and jumped to plus 9 at the halftime. The defending champ limited its rival to just 8 points for the entire Q3, while scoring 18 at the other side for 19-point lead with one period to go. Canada simply was not able to reply and USA had no troubles to celebrate comfortable victory. Linnae Harper (170-SG-95) had 11 points and 8 rebounds for the Americans. Oderah Chidom (190-PF-95) (7 rebs) and Kaela Davis (185-G/F-95) netted 10 points each. Each of USA players scored at least 2 pts in this meeting. Canada got 14 points from Kia Nurse (177-PG-96) and Emma Wolfram (193-C-95). Emily Potter (195-C-95) stopped to one point less and 6 rebounds. Sunday is the last day of the competition in Amsterdam.

Spain - Japan 91-62
Spain did a great job against Japan tonight in Amsterdam. It was the Semifinals game of FIBA U17 World Championship and Spain celebrated huge 91-62 win against its rival advancing to the Big Final. There, Spain will meet defending champion USA. Two years ago USA eliminated Spain in the Quarterfinals. At the other side, Japan will play against Canada in bronze medal game. Spain made 10-point lead already in the first quarter and later they jumped to plus 17 with 10 minutes remaining in the game. They totally took control on Japan in Q4 (23-11) to end this matchup in style. Leticia Romero (176-SG-95) paced Spain with 27 points and 5 assists. Maria Arrojo (186-F-85) also was great adding 21 points and 6 rebs, while Marina Lizarazu (172-PG-95) helped with 13 points and 6 rebs. In defeat, Ai Yamada (167-SG-95) and Ayane Itani (172-SF-95) posted 14 and 13 points respectively. Yunika Nakamura (177-PF-95) collected 11 points and 5 boards in this defeat. Both gold and bronze medal games will be played tomorrow.

Places 5-8
Holland - Australia 58-82
Australia had an easy job against Holland today in Amsterdam. The host of FIBA U17 World Championship faced with 24-point loss, 58-82. It means that Australia will meet Italy tomorrow in the battle for the fifth place at this event. Holland will play against Belgium for position No.7. Tiana Mangakahia (165-PG-95) led the winners with 18 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists, while Vanessa Panousis (170-PG-95) added 17 points and 5 boards. Keely Froling (184-F-96) followed them with 13 points and 8 rebs. The hosts got 14 points (6 rebs) from Lisanne de Jonge (180-SF-95) and 13 pts from Klaziena Guijt (172-SG-95). Janis Ndiba (180-PF-97) collected 8 points and 7 boards. Quarters: 15-11, 23-19, 23-13, 21-15. Sunday is the last day of the championship in Amsterdam.

Italy - Belgium 63-55
Italy was better than Belgium today in Amsterdam, 63-55. It was the first game of Classification Round from 5th-8th place at FIBA U17 World Championship. In order to take position No.5 Italy will have to beat Australia tomorrow. Belgium will play against Holland for seventh place. Marzia Tagliamento (181-PF-96) top-scored in Italy with 18 points, while Elisa Penna (186-SG-95) added one point less, plus she pulled down 10 rebounds. Maria Barberis (175-SF-95) netted 11 pts in this victory. In Belgium, Hind Ben Abdelkader (170-PG-95) had 24 points and 9 rebounds, but again with poor shot percentage (3//10 FG2, 5/22 3-pts). Julie Allemand (173-PG-96) stopped to 10 points and 5 rebounds. Quarters: 9-8, 17-17, 14-11, 23-19. Championship will end tomorrow. USA will have a chance to defend the title.

Places 9-10
South Korea - Mali 57-39
South Korea finished participation at FIBA U17 World Championship with victory. They downed Mali 57-39 to end as the ninth ranked team at this event. Mali finished as No.10. The Africans had impressive start limiting their rival to just 5 points for the entire Q1, while they scored 13 pts at the other side. However, all after that belonged to South Korea, who celebrated comfortable win at the end. Quarters: 5-13, 15-7, 24-7, 13-12. Park Ji Su (188-C-98) stepped up for South Korea with 12 points and 6 rebounds. An Heji (164-PG-97) (6 as, 5 rebs) and Kim Sion (173-PF-95) were their second scorers with 9 points each. At the other side, Mali got 21 points from Mariam Maiga (167-SG-96). Djeneba N'Diaye (165-PG-97) had 8 points and 7 rebounds, while all other Mali players had 10 points in total. Sunday is the last day of the competition in Amsterdam. As mentioned above, South Korea and Mali already played all of their games at this event.

Places 11-12
Turkey - Brazil 61-66
It was a matchup for 11th place at FIBA U17 World Championship in Amsterdam. Brazil celebrated 66-61 victory thanks to well played last ten minutes of the game. It means that Brazil ended as No.11, while Turkey is the last ranked team at this event. Carla Lucchini (165-PG-95) scored 18 points for the winners and Daphner Pezavento (190-C-95) helped with double-double of 14 points and 10 rebounds. Izabella Sangalli (184-SF-95) followed them with 13 points and 8 boards. In the loosing squad, Melis Gulcan (185-SF-96) and Sinem Atas (182-PF-95) had 18 points and 6 rebounds each. Hulya Coklar (188-C-95) stopped to 10 points and 9 rebs. Turkey had 2-point lead after 30 minutes of play, but Brazil shined when it mattered most and closed this game with 21-14 for 66-61 win at the end. Turkey finished as the only winless team in Amsterdam (0-7). Both teams already finished participation at this event, which will officially end tomorrow.


Day Six: USA, Canada, Spain and Japan head to Semis - by Eurobasket News

QUARTERFINALS

Japan - Belgium 70-64
Japan is in the Semifinals of FIBA U17 World Championship in Amsterdam. They outplayed Belgium 70-64 in the QFinals thanks to impressive first half of the game. Japan made 28-18 in the first ten minutes and jumped to plus 16 at the halftime. Belgium drastically improved after the breather, but still Japan was strong enough to keep the lead and to celebrate at the end. Quarters: 28-18, 14-8, 13-20, 15-18. Ai Yamada (167-SG-95) scored 21 points in victory and Yunika Nakamura (177-PF-95) added 19 pts. Evelyn Mawuli (180-C-95) followed them with 14 points and 16 rebs. In defeat, Hind Ben Abdelkader (170-PG-95) was better than the others with 19 points, but she made only 3 of 14 attempts from behind the arc. Laeticia Mpoyi (179-C-96) (8 rebs) and Anneleen De Baets (157-PG-95) (7 rebs) posted 11 and 10 pts respectively. Japan will meet Spain in the Semifinals. Belgium will continue in Classification Round from 5th-8th place.

Holland - Canada 55-56
Canada grabbed 56-55 thriller win over Holland in the Quarterfinals of FIBA U17 World Championship in Amsterdam. In the Semis, Canada will meet defending champion USA. It will be a North American derby. At the other side, the host of this event will fight for the fifth place. None of the teams had a 3 or more possession lead. Netherlands attempted a game winning shot in the last second of regulation, but it fell short. Kia Nurse (177-PG-96) scored 18 points for the winners, while Emma Wolfram (193-C-95) added 13 points and 6 rebounds. Shaylisha Colley (172-PG-96) also posted 13 pts in this meeting. In Holland, Lisanne de Jonge (180-SF-95) top-scored with 13 points. Britt Zappeij (182-PF-95) and Laura Cornelius (173-PG-96) scored 8 points each and they also had 8 and 5 rebounds respectively. Championship continues today. Holland will play against Australia.

USA - Australia 89-68
USA handed 89-68 loss to Australia extending its winning streak to six at FIBA U19 World Championship in Amsterdam. Australia had better beginning of this game, but all after that belonged to USA. The Americans will meet Canada in the Semifinals. At the other side, Australia will continue in Classification Round from 5th to 8th place. Their first rival will be Holland. Diamond Deshields (6'1''-SF-95) had 19 points and 5 rebounds in this victory. Mercedes Russell (6'5''-C-95) shined with 18 points and 14 rebs (MVP, valuation 28), while Linnae Harper (5'7''-SG-95) added 13 points and 11 rebs. In defeat, Tiana Mangakahia (5'5''-PG-95) top-scored with 21 points and Abigail Wehrung (5'10''-G-95) added 19 pts, plus 5 rebs. Alicia Froling (6'2''-PF-96) collected 8 pts and 6 rebs. Quarters: 19-24, 22-13, 24-14, 24-17. Championship continues today.

Italy - Spain 39-67
Spain had an easy job against Italy in the Quarterfinals of FIBA U17 World Championship in Amsterdam. Spain celebrated 67-39 win and will meet Japan in the Semifinals. Italy will be transferred to Classification Round from 5th-8th place and their first rival will be Belgium. Spain was better team during the entire game, especially in the second half. Quarters: 13-10, 13-9, 18-11, 23-9. Laura Quevedo (185-PF-96) was the leading player in victory with 19 points and 9 rebounds. Marina Lizarazu (172-PG-95) and Ariadna Pujol (183-PG-95) netted 14 and 11 pts respectively. In Italy, Elisa Penna (186-SG-95) had 8 points and Giulia Porro (166-PG-95) added two less. Championship continues today. In the other Semifinals, USA will meet Canada. USA is the defending champion in Amsterdam.

Places 9-12
South Korea - Turkey 82-79
South Korea made a first step forward to 9th place at FIBA U17 World Championship in Amsterdam. They grabbed 82-79 victory against Turkey on Friday. In order to take the position No.9 South Korea will have to beat Mali. Turkey will play against Brazil and winner will avoid last place at this event. Shin Jihyun (173-SG-95) led South Korea with 21 points, while Park Jieun (183-C-95) added 13 points and 14 rebounds (MVP, valuation 29). Kim Heejin (168-SF-95) also scored 13 pts in this meeting. In Turkey, Melis Gulcan (185-SF-96) collected 21 points and 6 rebounds. Ezgi Manlaci (172-SF-96) had 18 points and Sinem Atas (182-PF-95) added 16 pts, 11 rebs and 6 assists. Korea shined in the last ten minutes to take the victory in this meeting. Quarters: 19-20, 18-17, 14-22, 31-20. Both teams will play their last games in Amsterdam today.

Brazil - Mali 51-58
Mali was better than Brazil on Friday 58-51. It was the first game of the Classification Round from 9th-12th place at FIBA U19 World Championship in Amsterdam. Mali will meet South Korea today and the winner of that game will end as No.9 at this event. At the other side, Brazil will play against Turkey. The winner of that meeting will avoid last place in Amsterdam. Both games will be played today. Mali shined in the last quarter to beat Brazil: 13-12, 15-8, 12-21, 18-10. Mariam Maiga (167-SG-96) led Mali with 18 points and Djeneba N'Diaye (165-PG-97) added 10 points. Aissata Fomba (175-SG-95) followed them with 9 points and 10 rebs. In Brazil, Izabella Sangalli (184-SF-95) had double-double of 11 points and 10 rebs. Monique Soares (187-PF-97) impressed with 10 pts and 17 boards (MVP, valuation 25), while Carla Lucchini (165-PG-95) added 10 pts and 9 boards. Both teams will end their participation in Amsterdam today.