EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 8/28/2012 1:00:00 AM

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Men News

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  AFRICAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U18   



Senegal wins the title at U18 AfroBasket in Maputo - by Eurobasket News

Senegal is the gold medal will in Maputo. They outplayed Ivory Coast in U18 AfroBasket title game 71-62. The game was played on Saturday at the Academica Stadium. It is important to mention that both teams will compete at FIBA U19 World Championship next summer. Czech Republic will be the host of this event.
Senegal registered 7-1 record in Maputo. They finished Preliminary Round with 4-1 and their only loss came against the former champions Egypt. It was enough for the second place in Group B. In the Quarterfinals, Senegal eliminated host Mozambique 62-37. In the Semis, Senegal was better than Mali 63-47.
This is the first ever gold medal for Senegal at U18 AfroBasket.


U18 AfroBasket in Maputo - FINAL RANKING

1. Senegal
2. Ivory Coast
3. Egypt
4. Mali
5. Angola
6. Tunisia
7. Mozambique
8. Ghana
9. Morocco
10. Gabon
11. Rwanda


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  ALBANIA   


Belgium clinch big win over Albania - by Eurobasket News

Belgium-Albania 97:59

Belgium clinch big win over Albania for 3-1 record in Group E of the EuroBasket Qualification Round. The Belgium side satisfied more than 4000 local fans in Antwerp after 97:59 win. Albania meanwhile fell at 0-4 record on the bottom of the group.
Sam Van Rossom (188-PG-86) scored two three-pointers in the opening tip as the hosts won the first period 22:13. Gillet scored four in a row in the start of the second frame, while Wen Boss Mukubu (198-F-83, agency: SportsTalent, college: UAB) brought 39:15. Gillet sent the teams to the lockers at 52:22 and then Sam Van Rossom scored for 57:25. Ndoja replied with two three-pointers for Albania and reduced to 59:31. He also scored the last three points for his side at the end of the frame for 73:45. Belgium added 24-14 in the last stanza for the final success.
Sam Van Rossom paced all the winners with 19 points and Wen Boss Mukubu poured in 18. Beye Tabu-Eboma (184-SG-85) delivered 13, while Guy Muya (190-PG-83, agency: TSS Management) and Jean-Marc Mwema (195-F-89, agency: Court Side) had 10 each. Klaudio Ndoja (198-SG-85) and Gerti Shima (202-PF-86) collected 16 points each, while the latter also had 13 caroms. Erkand Karaj (188-PG-82) netted 12, whilst Endrit Hysenagolli (204-C-88) posted 8.

Belgium: Sam Van Rossom 19, Wen Boss Mukubu 18, Beye Tabu-Eboma 13, Guy Muya 10, Jean-Marc Mwema 10
Albania: Klaudio Ndoja 16, Gerti Shima 16+13 rebs, Erkand Karaj 12, Endrit Hysenagolli 8


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  AUSTRALIA   


Hawks sign Adris Deleon - by Hugh McAuliffe

Electrifying point guard Adris Deleon (180-G-84, college: E.Washington) from the Dominican Republic and raised in New York City will be returning to the National Basketball League after signing with the Wollongong Hawks for the 2012/13 season.

A true showman of the sport, Deleon has earned the reputation as a hardnosed player that relishes the physical nature of the NBL. Hawks fans should be excited for his debut for the club come Friday 5 October against the Sydney Kings.

His nickname 2Hard2Guard hails from his days on the NYC street basketball circuit, as a tough player for any defender to guard from the inside and outside.

After arriving a few games into last season with the Gold Coast Blaze, Deleon proved that he was one of the best point guards in the NBL, leading the Blaze to the semi-finals averaging 16.6 points, 4.3 rebounds and 3.2 assists per game in 28 minutes per game.

Deleon is a proven player in the NBL. Were looking forward to him joining us in Wollongong soon and settling in with the group. Head Coach Gordie McLeod said.

We looked at our group and what we needed to go with this season and we know what were getting with Deleon and what he can bring to the NBL this season. We feel our fans are going to enjoy his style of play and the charisma he brings on court. He added.

Deleon will arrive in Wollongong early September; he should be ready and cleared to play by the NBL pre-season tournament in Melbourne in mid September. I love playing in Australia. The NBL is a great competition and Im glad to be coming back and playing for coach Gordie in Wollongong Adris Deleon said.

The Hawks are a great team already, I loved playing against them last year but now to be joining these guys this season and Im really looking forward to that opportunity.

Wollongong is a great spot, the fans are loud and Im looking forward to playing in front of them this season. Cant wait to get there and start competing. He added.

Adris Deleon's addition is the final piece to the the 2012/13 Wollongong NRE Hawks roster. With 11 contracted players for the season, the Hawks lineup will feature Oscar Forman, Glen Saville, Larry Davidson, Rhys Martin, Tyson Demos, Dave Gruber, Tim Coenraad, Dan Jackson, Auryn MacMillan, and the two imports Lance Hurdle and Adris Deleon.

The Wollongong Hawks will officially commence the NBL Season on Friday 5 October against the Sydney Kings at the WIN Entertainment Centre, tip off 7:30pm.


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  AUSTRIA   


Shelton Colwell inks with BC Zepter Vienna - by Stefan Prager (T)

The BC Zepter Vienna continues to strenghten their roster for the upcoming season. Vienna announced just today that the club has signed power forward Shelton Colwell (202-C/F-80, college: Missouri St.). Together with center Zarko Rakocevic the duo will be the dominant front court in the ABL. Colwell is a well known player in Austria as he already played for the Furstenfeld Panthers twice as well as for the Gmunden Swans. Colwell won a championship with the Panthers in 2008 and reached the ABL finals in 2009 as well as 2010. He was selected to the Austrian All Star Game both in 2009 and 2010. Colwell spent the last season playing in Lebanon for Atranik Beirut before moving to Quatar in March. For Beirut Colwell averaged 23.9 ppg along with 11.1 rpg. WIth Al Arabi Club Doha the big man reached the quarterfinals of the Emir Cup.


Croatia prevail against Austria in Schwechat - by Eurobasket News

Austria - Croatia 75:82

Croatia clinched the fourth consecutive win in Group C of 2013 EuroBasket Qualifying Round. They defeated Austria on the road tonight. Bojan Bogdanovic (203-SG-89) accounted for 19 points to pace the winners. Austria fell at 1-3 record after the loss.
Austria unexpectedly grabbed an early lead. The hosts secured a 23:20 lead after ten minutes. But Croatia picked up the slack and denied the deficit in the second quarter. The visitors piled up a 44:35 halftime lead. Austria did not surrender as they Rasid Mahalbasic (208-C-90) drew things level at 50 midway through the third period. But Croatia were able to eke out a 60:58 advantage after three quarters of action. Maresch knotted things up at 64 early in the fourth frame. Croatia needed 9:0 run to clear off. They posted a 77:68 advantage. Austria did not recover allowing Croatia to escape with a tough victory. Roko-Leni Ukic (196-PG-84) netted 14 points, issued 7 assists and grabbed 4 boards, while Pavle Marcinkovic (197-G/F-89) added 11 points for the winners. Rasid Mahalbasic replied with 21 points for Austria. Jason Detrick (195-SF-80, agency: Court Side, college: Oklahoma) and Davor Lamesic (205-PF-83, agency: Interperformances) had 11 points each in the loss.

Austria: Rasid Mahalbasic 21, Jason Detrick 11, Davor Lamesic 11
Croatia: Bojan Bogdanovic 19, Roko-Leni Ukic 13, Pavle Marcinkovic 11


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  AZERBAIJAN   


Germany upset Azerbaijan in Baku - by Eurobasket News

Azerbaijan - Germany 68:85

Germany registered the fourth straight win at the 2013 EuroBasket Qualifying Round. They knocked down Azerbaijan in Baku to stay perfect in Group B. Lucca Staiger (195-SG-88, college: Iowa St.) delivered 18 points to lead the winners. Azerbaijan fell at 2-2 record suffering the second loss in a row.
Germany eked out a 17:15 lead after ten minutes. They stretched the margin in the second quarter. The visitors accounted for a 43:34 halftime lead. Germany maintained the lead throughout the third period. They accumulated a 59:50 buffer heading into the fourth stanza. Germany did not allow the hosts any closer in the final quarter rolling to a confident win at the end. Heiko Schaffartzik (183-PG-84) notched 16 points, while Robin Benzing (209-SF-89) and Tibor Pleiss (215-C-89) contributed 15 points each in the victory. Charles Davis (205-C-84, college: Alabama) answered with 31 points, 6 boards and 4 assists for Azerbaijan. Orhan Haciyeva (200-PF-89) netted 11 points in the loss.

Azerbaijan: Charles Davis 31, Orhan Haciyeva 11
Germany: Lucca Staiger 18, Heiko Schaffartzik 16, Robin Benzing 15+13 boards, Tibor Pleiss 15


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  BALTIC LEAGUE   


Darius Silinskis moved to Rudupis - by Eurobasket News (T)

Darius Silinskis (216-C-84, agency: Interperformances) moved to Rudupis for the upcoming season. The Lithuanian player came back from Slovakia.
Last year Darius Silinskis agreed on terms of contract with Nitra. The deal was meant till the end of the season. Darius Silinskis was on a try-outs with Nitra but the team decided to ink contract after last round game. The centre averaged 5.3 points, 3.7 rebounds and 1.3 assists per three appearances with Nitra. Last season Darius Silinskis started in DniproAzot in Ukraine. Later he moved to Panevezys Techasas. He tallied 9.3 points, 5.7 rebounds, 1.6 blocks and 1.5 assists per game in LKL. In Baltic League his stats read 11.0 points, 4.2 rebounds, 1.9 assists and 1.4 blocks. Eurobasket.com gave the centre All-Baltic League Honourable Mention. Previously Darius Silinskis had stints in Lithuania, Italy, Spain and Estonia.
In 2011-2012 for BK SPU Bemaco Nitra (Slovakia-Extraliga) he averaged 2.6ppg, 3.8rpg in EuroChallenge and in Slovak League had 5.3ppg, 4.7rpg, Blocks-4 (1.1bpg), FGP: 41.6%, 3PT-1 (50.0%), FT: 77.4%.


Zalgiris, Lietuvos Rytas, Neptunas and VEF Riga say no to Baltic League - by Eurobasket News

After joining in the Baltic Basketball League (BBL) only from the playoffs, Zalgiris Kaunas and Lietuvos Rytas decided to pull out for good. The two Baltic powerhouses were followed by VEF Riga and Neptunas Klaipeda, who also chose the VTB League over the Baltic League.
However, the BBL will not seize to exist, as the remaining nine Lithuanian League (LKL) clubs, as well as teams from Latvia, Estonia and Kazakhstan look set play for the BBL Cup. The exact number of teams is still unclear, but there should be between 20 and 24 clubs in the competition next year, with 5-7 teams from Estonia and Latvia, and two Kazakhstani sides, who will play all of the games on the road. From this season on the Baltic League will no longer be separated into two divisions. The teams will be divided into three or four groups, followed by a Top 16 stage and playoffs, starting with the quarter-finals. All playoff rounds will be played on a home-and-away basis, with the winner decided by the overall point difference over the two legs of the tie.
Due to a very difficult schedule neither of the big Lithuanian clubs even considered playing in the competition this year. However, there is still an opportunity to see the best Baltic teams playing against each other in the BBL Super Cup Final Four, which will feature the champions from the national championships of the three Baltic states and the BBL Cup winner.
Courtesy of: Lithuaniabasketball.com


Arturas Valeika joins Rudupis - by Eurobasket News (T)

Rudupis added another player to the roster. They agreed on terms of conract with Arturas Valeika (206-F-85, college: Midland CC). The forward spent the last season in Neptunas Klaipeda. He tallied 4.5 points, 4.6 rebounds and 1.1 assists per game in Baltic League. In LKL Arturas Valeika notched 6.0 points, 6.0 rebounds and 1.0 assist per appearance. Previously the forward had stints with Caceres, Valmiera, Perlas, Ferrara, Budivelnyk, Bremerhaven. He earned All-Latvian League Honourable Mention in 2010. Arturas Valeika got the taste of American basketball. He graduated from the Weber State University in 2008. The forward notched 9.9 points, 10.2 boards, 1.2 assists and 1.2 blocks per game in his senior season. Arturas Valeika made it into All-Big Sky Conference 1st Team in 2008.


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  BELARUS   


Belarus open win count in EuroBasket Qualification - by Eurobasket News

Portugal - Belarus 75:82

Belarus clinched the initial win at 2013 EuroBasket Qualifying Round. They upset Portugal on the road to improve at 1-3 record in Group F. Portugal remained winless at 0-4. Artsiom Parakhouski (210-C-87, college: Radford) came up with 19 points to lead the visitors.
Belarus started the game strong. They got away at 13-point distance after ten minutes 28:15. Portugal however stopped the rot in the second quarter. The hosts narrowed the deficit at just 7-point mark at halftime 37:44. Artsiom Parakhouski quickly restored an 11-point lead for the visitors in the third quarter. However Portugal almost denied it getting within just one 57:58 at the final intermission. Aliaksandr Pustahvar (203-SF-85, agency: RU-Basket Management) and Stiggers gave Belarus a 67:57 lead early in the final stanza. The hosts did not surrender and trimmed the deficit at just five-point mark with under two minutes remaining. Aliaksandr Pustahvar accounted for key four points in the dying seconds to seal the victory for Belarus. Aliaksandr Pustahvar delivered 13 points, while Aliaksei Trastsinetski (200-SF-86) added 10 points for the winners. Mario Fernandes (174-PG-82) answered with 19 points for Portugal. Claudio Fonseca (206-C-89) netted 15 points in the loss.

Portugal: Mario Fernandes 19, Claudio Fonseca 15
Belarus: Artsiom Parakhouski 19, Aliaksandr Pustahvar 13, Aliaksei Trastsinetski 10


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  BELGIUM   


Gent Dragons play two friendlies - by Eurobasket News

Gent Dragons play two friendlies in their pre-season action. The Belgian side was not upset with two losses.
In Game 1 University of Colorado beat Gent Dragons 91:63. Josh Scott scored a game-high 19 points leading the University of Colorado, while Andre Roberson (201-F-91) add 15 points and 14 rebounds, Askia Booker (185-G-93) chip-in with 18 points and six assists, and Chris Jenkins and Xavier Johnson (198-F) adding 12 and 10 points, respectively. Thomas Van De Vondel (197-F/G-80) led Optima Ghent with 19 points.
In Game 2 Denain ASC Voltaire beat Gent Dragons 83:55. HUMPHREY Chris top-scored for the winners with 18 points and Marcus Kitts (205-C/F-89, college: William & Mary) netted 16. Thomas Van De Vondel responded with 16 points in the losing effort and Mukole Thsimuanga Kandi posted 13.
Liege Basket meanwhile will play against Ninane tomorrow, while on the first day of September they will take on French Le Portel (Pro B).


CU Men's BB Falls In Final Seconds, 88-86 - by Eurobasket News

ANTWERP, Belgium - Trailing by 10 points with under two minutes to play, the University of Colorado men's basketball team almost pulled off a stunning come-from-behind win - from its underclassmen, only to fall in the final seconds to Gembo BBC Borgerhout, 88-86, Sunday afternoon at the Sporthal Luisbekelaar.
The Buffaloes played the entire game without last year starters and reserves Askia Booker (185-G-93), Sabatino Chen, Spencer Dinwiddie, and Andre Roberson. CU countered the entire game on Sunday with all six freshmen, first-year transfer players, and their returning reserves from a year ago. Most of CU's firepower that generated 56.2 percent scoring and 70.5 percent of rebounding a year ago, did not play.

CU started the game with forwards Wesley Gordon and Xavier Johnson; guards Xavier Talton (185-G), Eli Stalzer and Chris Jenkins (201-F), with forwards Josh Scott and Xavier Johnson coming off the bench. Junior forward Ben Mills, junior transfer guard Kevin Nelson and sophomore transfer guard Beau Gamble also saw minutes.

Scott led all scorers with 24 points with six rebounds and a blocked shot.

"We added a fifth game on this trip trying to get some guys as many minutes, and as much as a flow of the game in a normal situation, to give them that experience," said CU head coach Tad Boyle .

"It gave us a great-look-into our freshmen class that are not normally in the rotation and getting them some minutes, so I thought the way we competed and lose by two to a very quality team that I think is better than the team we beat last night (Sat., Aug. 18), it gives us a lot of things to build on. The thing about this trip, is you want to learn as much as you can about your young players and we had a chance to do that today."

The Buffaloes were playing their second game in less than 24 hours were also led by Jenkins with 17 points and eight rebounds; Stalzer scored 10 points with six steals; and Gordon chipped-in with seven rebounds, six points, two steals and two blocks. Johnson added 11 points.

Trailing 74-66 with 1:47 to play, Gembo BBC made back-to-back treys for what seemed a commanding 84-74 lead. However, Scott scored the next bucket with a power move in the paint, then Nelson added four points inching CU closer and an 86-83 deficit with 16.6 seconds to play.

With no timeouts, CU managed to force the home team into a turnover where Jenkins subsequently missed a three-pointer to tie the game. Gembo BBC added a pair of free throws for an 88-83 lead and Stalzer closed the gap with a three-pointer at the buzzer.

Gembo BBC Borgerhout, whose average age is 28, was the Belgian Division II 2011-2012 champion, returned 10 players from its title team a year ago. They were led by Domien Loubry with 22 points and six three-pointers.

Four CU players, Talton, Scott, Gordon, Johnson, all fouled out one-by-one in the fourth quarter.

CU shot 45.9 percent from the field (28-of-61) and committed 29 turnovers. Gembo BBC shot 49.2 percent for the game (29-of-59) and committed 23 miscues.
Courtesy of: www.cubuffs.com


Belgium clinch big win over Albania - by Eurobasket News

Belgium-Albania 97:59

Belgium clinch big win over Albania for 3-1 record in Group E of the EuroBasket Qualification Round. The Belgium side satisfied more than 4000 local fans in Antwerp after 97:59 win. Albania meanwhile fell at 0-4 record on the bottom of the group.
Sam Van Rossom (188-PG-86) scored two three-pointers in the opening tip as the hosts won the first period 22:13. Gillet scored four in a row in the start of the second frame, while Wen Boss Mukubu (198-F-83, agency: SportsTalent, college: UAB) brought 39:15. Gillet sent the teams to the lockers at 52:22 and then Sam Van Rossom scored for 57:25. Ndoja replied with two three-pointers for Albania and reduced to 59:31. He also scored the last three points for his side at the end of the frame for 73:45. Belgium added 24-14 in the last stanza for the final success.
Sam Van Rossom paced all the winners with 19 points and Wen Boss Mukubu poured in 18. Beye Tabu-Eboma (184-SG-85) delivered 13, while Guy Muya (190-PG-83, agency: TSS Management) and Jean-Marc Mwema (195-F-89, agency: Court Side) had 10 each. Klaudio Ndoja (198-SG-85) and Gerti Shima (202-PF-86) collected 16 points each, while the latter also had 13 caroms. Erkand Karaj (188-PG-82) netted 12, whilst Endrit Hysenagolli (204-C-88) posted 8.

Belgium: Sam Van Rossom 19, Wen Boss Mukubu 18, Beye Tabu-Eboma 13, Guy Muya 10, Jean-Marc Mwema 10
Albania: Klaudio Ndoja 16, Gerti Shima 16+13 rebs, Erkand Karaj 12, Endrit Hysenagolli 8


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  BRAZIL   


Sao Jose/Vinac stay on top of Paulista League ladder - by Eurobasket News

Sao Jose/Vinac remained on top of Group A of the Second Stage in Paulista League action. Sao Jose/Vinac narrowly lost to Paulistano 77:78 in the latest encounter but remained in the first position at 3-1 record. Pedro Lima (190-G-87) delivered 20 points to lead the winners. Steven Toyloy (203-C-87, college: Cincinnati) added 15 points and 10 rebounds as Paulistano climbed at 2-1 record in Group A. Fulvio de Assis (187-G-81) responded with 25 points for Sao Jose/Vinac. Dede Stefanelli (196-F/G-84) finished with 16 points in the loss.
Palmeiras in the meantime remained undefeated. They upset Pinheiros/Sky 67:64 on the road to climb at 3-0 record. Arthur Pecos (94) and Douglas Viegas (197-G/F-79, college: Wagner) produced 17 points each to lead the visitors. Pinheiros/Sky enjoyed a 25:9 lead after ten minutes but Palmeiras found the way to bounce back. They used the next two periods to deny the deficit and built 4-point lead. The defending champions were not able to recover in the fourth frame and had to surrender at the end. Caleb Brown (182-G-87, college: Austin Peay St.) accounted for 14 points for the visitors. Mineiro Ferreira (208-C/F-88) had 17 points and 14 rebounds in the defeat.


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  BULGARIA   


Tihomir Zhelev stays with Cherno More - by Eurobasket News (T)

Good news for Cherno More fans. Tihomir Zhelev (193-SG-90) decided to stay with the club for the upcoming season. The player agreed with Rilski earlier this summer, but at the end he made a decision to stay with Cherno More. Last season Zhelev had 10.2 ppg, 3.1 apg and 2.7 rpg for 31 games. Cherno More reached NBL Semifinals and player was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Bulgarian League Honorable Mention -12. In 2010/11 season Tihomir Zhelev averaged 11.9 points, 3.5 rebounds and 2.3 assists for 31 games in NBL. He is a product of Cherno More, where he started as teenager. Tihomir Zhelev played for Bulgarian U20 National Team in 2009 and 2010. They reached Semifinals together at U20 EuroBasket Division B in Austria. In the past, Zhelev also played for U18 and U16 Bulgaria.


Cherno More hires Spas Natov as new Head Coach - by Eurobasket News (T)

Cherno More will have a new Head Coach for the next season. The team hired well known face in Varna - Spas Natov. He already coached Cherno More from 2006 to 2008. Before that he served as Assistant Coach for one year. Natov played for Cherno More almost ten years in the past. He is one of the club's legends and management of the team was happy that Natov accepted the proposal. As a player Spas Natov won two Bulgarian league titles with Cherno More. They also won three Cup trophies together.
Cherno More first offered deal to Petko Delev, but he turned it down. Another important news for Cherno More is that Tihomir Zhelev stays with the club for 2012/13.


Beroe lands three Americans for 2012/13 - by Eurobasket News (T)

Beroe announced signing of three American players for the upcoming season. New members of the team are point guard Will Walker (183-G, college: De Paul), PF/C Michael Hart (206-C/F-85, agency: Top Notch Sports, college: N.Illinois) and center Mitchell Carter (208-C, college: Wisc.-Milwaukee).
Will Walker most recently played for the Lithuanian squad Alytus Alita. He played for them in 2010/11 season averaging 9.6 points, 3 rebounds and 2.4 assists for 8 games. He graduated at De Paul University two years ago.
Michael Hart heads to Bulgaria from the German ProB team Herzoege Wolfenbuettel. He had 7.2 ppg and 3.3 rpg for them in 26 games last season.
Mitchell Carter will play his first season in Europe. He graduated at the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee a year ago. Carter played for the University of South Carolina from 2006 to 2009.


Lukoil Academik extends Brandon Heat and Bozhidar Avramov - by Eurobasket News (T)

Lukoil Academik extended deals with Brandon Heath (193-G-84, college: San Diego St.) and Bozhidar Avramov (196-PG-90, agency: Interperformances) for the upcoming season.
Brandon Heath will play his third straight season with Lukoil. They won two championship titles and two Cup trophies together. Heat was named Eurobasket.com All-Bulgarian League Player of the Year -12. In 2011 he was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Bulgarian League Guard of the Year. The player had 11.7 ppg, 5.7 apg, 3.7 rpg and 2.1 spg for 35 NBL games last season. He also added 10.6 ppg, 4.6 rpg and 4.4 apg for 8 EuroCup games.
Bozhidar Avramov also joined Lukoil in 2010. He had 10 ppg, 3.5 apg and 1.9 rpg for 36 NBL games in 2011/12. His numbers were lower for 6 EuroCup appearances. Avramov was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Bulgarian League Most Improved Player of the Year -12.


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  COLOMBIA   


GUERREROS AGREES TERMS WITH RASHAD BELL - by Victor Garcia

Guerreros de Bogota, agrees terms to hire its second import player for the 2012 Federation Cup, Rashad Bell (2,01 F, Boston University) is the choosen, the player was scouted by the Guerreros de Bogota coach Yesid Rivero at NYC, and now after several weeks of negotiations the player is ready to come to the country.
Bell is a combo forward, very atletic and very good scorer and rebounder, he has played with succes in the Hungarian League and now is ready to test the Latin Basketball for the first time. Rashad Bell (201-F-82, college: Boston U.)


CHUCKY FRIERSON IS THE THIRD IMPORT OF ISLANDERS - SOPESA - by Victor Garcia

Islanders Sopesa completes its roster, with the additiion of the american forward Chucky Frierson, who comes with previous experience from the Dominican Republic, Frierson 1,98 mts tall will filll the small forward and guard spots in the Islanders team.
Will join, Braggs and Jones as the trio of imports inked by Sopesa for the 2012 Federation Cup.
Sopesa is seeded in the group A, and will open at home against the Indervalle team.


HORMIGUEROS GETS CULVERT AND WASHINGTON - by Victor Garcia

Hormigueros de Santander, began to build its roster for the upcoming Federation Cup, with addition of two former Caribbean Heat players, the center Patrick Culver (2,08 C) is ready to play its fourth season in the Colombian Basketball, while the forward Devron Washington (2,03 F) will play its second season.
With both players the team wants to get size, Hormigueros is already running its training camp in Bucaramanga waiting for the opening game, Javier Gordon is the sports manager of the team.

Standings

Copa Federacion Standings
Group A
 1. Bucaros 0-0 
 2. Cafeteros 0-0 
 3. Caribbean H. 0-0 
 4. InderValle 0-0 
 5. Patriotas 0-0 
Group B
 1. Arrieros 0-0 
 2. Bayside 0-0 
 3. Choco 0-0 
 4. Guerreros 0-0 
 5. Hormigueros 0-0 
 6. Once Caldas 0-0 

Elimination Round: Round 1

Sep. 7: Hormigueros - Once Caldas
Sep. 7: Arrieros - Bayside
Sep. 7: Guerreros - Choco
Sep. 7: Bucaros - InderValle
Sep. 7: Cafeteros - Patriotas
Sep. 8: Hormigueros - Once Caldas
Sep. 8: Arrieros - Bayside
Sep. 8: Guerreros - Choco
Sep. 8: Bucaros - InderValle
Sep. 8: Cafeteros - Patriotas



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  CROATIA   


Croatia prevail against Austria in Schwechat - by Eurobasket News

Austria - Croatia 75:82

Croatia clinched the fourth consecutive win in Group C of 2013 EuroBasket Qualifying Round. They defeated Austria on the road tonight. Bojan Bogdanovic (203-SG-89) accounted for 19 points to pace the winners. Austria fell at 1-3 record after the loss.
Austria unexpectedly grabbed an early lead. The hosts secured a 23:20 lead after ten minutes. But Croatia picked up the slack and denied the deficit in the second quarter. The visitors piled up a 44:35 halftime lead. Austria did not surrender as they Rasid Mahalbasic (208-C-90) drew things level at 50 midway through the third period. But Croatia were able to eke out a 60:58 advantage after three quarters of action. Maresch knotted things up at 64 early in the fourth frame. Croatia needed 9:0 run to clear off. They posted a 77:68 advantage. Austria did not recover allowing Croatia to escape with a tough victory. Roko-Leni Ukic (196-PG-84) netted 14 points, issued 7 assists and grabbed 4 boards, while Pavle Marcinkovic (197-G/F-89) added 11 points for the winners. Rasid Mahalbasic replied with 21 points for Austria. Jason Detrick (195-SF-80, agency: Court Side, college: Oklahoma) and Davor Lamesic (205-PF-83, agency: Interperformances) had 11 points each in the loss.

Austria: Rasid Mahalbasic 21, Jason Detrick 11, Davor Lamesic 11
Croatia: Bojan Bogdanovic 19, Roko-Leni Ukic 13, Pavle Marcinkovic 11


Sokol started preparations for new season - by Dajana Karl

After a while, KK Osjecki Sokol Osijek is finally back in A1 league with a few goals, some of them are to stabilize the team and remain in the first league, also to return KK Osjecki Sokol Osijek's audience in the stands. They started with the preparations for the season which they took very serious. During these preparations, they will play a couple of friendly games, as well as organize the traditional Memorial tournament "Drazen Pesic Drlja" in KK Osjecki Sokol Osijek which will be held on 21 and 22 September.

As for the team roster, so far they brought Veljko Budimir (199-G/F-85, agency: Court Side) from Darda. Katavic, Ridl and Neven Zeravica left the team. KK Osjecki Sokol Osijek plans on bringing one or two players on the center position which they need the most.

Part of their preparations they will be having in Daruvar, where they plan on having their roster complete.


Drago Pasalic is leaving to Turkey - by Dajana Karl

Croatian 28 year old PF/C Drago Pasalic will be spending this season with Turkish Turk Telekom Ankara along with ex NBA player Dee Brown.

Drago Pasalic spent his last season with Helios. His stats in 26 games of Adriatic league he played were 14 points, 4.4 rebounds, 1.3 assists, 0.7 blocked shots and 0.4 steals, while in 30 games of Slovenian league, playing the average of 22 minutes, he averaged 12.7 points, 4.1 rebounds, 0.7 assists, 0.4 blocked shots and 0.5 steals.




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  CYPRUS   


Hungary rally past Cyprus for second win - by Eurobasket News

Hungary - Cyprus 77:64

Hungary clinched the second victory in 2013 EuroBasket Qualifying Round. They knocked down Cyprus at home court to climb at 2-2 record in Group C. Peter Lorant (206-PF-85, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) delivered 25 points and 7 rebounds to lead the charge. Cyprus suffered the fourth straight loss.
The teams stayed close throughout the opening quarter. Hungary and Cyprus were tied at 21 after ten minutes. The hosts however stiffened their defence in the second quarter. They limited Cyprus at 9 points in the period and ensured a 9-point lead at halftime 39:30. Hungary also improved offensively in the second half. They erupted for 26 points in the third quarter to gain a 15-point lead before the fourth quarter. Cyprus narrowed the gap in the fourth term but had little chance to save the encounter. Adam Hanga (200-SG-89, agency: Peter Lorant%20Andras&AgencyNm=TSS Management">TSS Management) finished with 22 points, while Miklos Szabo (205-F/C-86, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group, college: Hofstra) added 7 points for the winners. Panagiotis Trisokkas (206-PF-80) accounted for 20 points and 9 rebounds for Cyprus. Anthony King (206-F/C-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Miami, FL) netted 17 points and pulled down 9 caroms in the loss.

Hungary: Peter Lorant 25, Adam Hanga 22, Miklos Szabo 7
Cyprus: Panagiotis Trisokkas 20, Anthony King 17


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  CZECH REPUBLIC   


Czech Republic demolish Turkey in Chomutov - by Eurobasket News

Czech Republic-Turkey 82:64

Czech Republic demolish Turkey in Chomutov for 3-1 record in Group F. The team erupted with 82:64 win for the second place behind Italy. Turkey meanwhile fell at 2-2 record on the third place.
Czech Republic started with 21-19 in front of 2200 fans in Chomutov. Petr Benda (204-C-82, agency: Court Side) scored for 29:21 and Jakub Kudlacek (193-PG-90) brought 33:30. Jelinek closed it at 35:30, while Pumprla closed the run at 40:30. Czech Republic had 22-18 in the third period for 57:48 after three quarters. Jelinek increased the lead to 15 points early in the fourth when it was clear about the winner. Tomas Satoransky (201-PG-91) scored for 78:61 and Jiri Welsch (199-SG-80) made the final result in the game.
Tomas Satoransky paced all the winners with 16 points, while Petr Benda, Jiri Welsch and Jakub Kudlacek added 14 apiece. Kerem Gonlum (208-PF-77) and Semih Erden (211-F/C-86) replied with 13 points each in defeat, while Serhat Cetin (197-G/F-86) posted 12. Emir Preldzic (205-SF-87, agency: Beo Basket) followed them with 10 points in the losing effort.

Czech Republic: Tomas Satoransky 16, Petr Benda 14, Jiri Welsch 14, Jakub Kudlacek 14
Turkey: Kerem Gonlum 13, Semih Erden 13, Serhat Cetin 12, Emir Preldzic 10


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  DOMINICAN REPUBLIC   

Standings - District National

LNB Standings
North Division
 1. Indios SF 12-3 
 2. Metros 9-7 
 3. Huracanes 8-8 
 4. Reales 5-10 
South Division
 1. Titanes 9-7 
 2. Caneros 7-8 
 3. Leones SD 6-9 
 4. Cocolos 6-10 

Regular Season: Round 13

Aug. 26: Titanes - Cocolos 88-82
Aug. 26: Metros - Huracanes 88-79

Regular Season: Round 14

Aug. 28: Leones SD - Cocolos
Aug. 28: Reales - Huracanes
Aug. 29: Metros - Indios SF
Aug. 29: Titanes - Caneros


Huracanes del Atlantico sign deal with David Cortes - by Eurobasket News (T)

Huracanes del Atlantico reinforced their roster for rest of the season. The Dominican Republic squad penned a deal with American guard David Cortes (190-G/F-81). He arrives to Huracanes from the Puerto Rican team Capitanes de Arecibo. Cortes appeared 49 times with them in 2012 BSN season averaging 9.7 points and 2.7 rebounds. The player also added 11.7 ppg and 2.3 rpg for 6 games in Liga Americas. In the past David Cortes won three BSN titles with Arecibo (08, 10, 11). In 2011/12 season the player won Mexican LNBP title with Halcones Rojos de Veracruz. There he had 9.2 ppg and 2.2 rpg in 44 games. David Cortes played for the Puerto Rican National Team two years ago. They won gold medals and CentroBasket in Santo Domingo and also at Central American and Caribbean Games in Mayaguez.


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  ESTONIA   


Kristjan Kangur leads Estonia past Iceland - by Eurobasket News

Iceland - Estonia 67:86

Estonia brings victory from Reykjavik. They claimed a comprehensive victory over Iceland to gain 3-2 record in EuroBasket Qualifying Round Group A. Kristjan Kangur (201-SF-82) delivered 26 points to pace the Baltic team. Iceland fell at 1-4 record after the loss.
Estonia stormed into the game. They accounted for 25 points in the opening quarter to take a 10-point lead. Estonia held the hosts to 12 points in the second frame to ensure an 11-point cushion at halftime. The visitors unloaded 28 points in the third quarter to clear off. They accumulated an insurmountable 24-point advantage before the final stanza. Iceland knocked down 25 points in the final term but could not avoid the loss at the end. Siim-Sander Vene (203-SF-90, agency: Alti Sport) posted 16 points and 9 boards, while Janar Talts (207-PF-83) added 13 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Jon Stefansson (196-G-82) answered with 19 points for Iceland. Helgi Magnusson (195-SF-82, college: Catawba) chipped in 16 points in the losing effort.

Iceland: Jon Stefansson 19, Helgi Magnusson 16
Estonia: Kristjan Kangur 26, Siim-Sander Vene 16, Janar Talts 13


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  EUROCUP   


Galatasaray is going to add Turkish power forward - by Ugur Turker

Galatasaray Medical Park Istanbul is looking to add one more Turkish Power Forward to its roster after leaving of Ilkan Karaman (205-F-90). The new player is expected to be Turkish young prospect. There are already limited number of promising player in Turkey who Galatasaray can move for him. Samet Geyik (205-F-93), Izzet Turkyilmaz (214-F/C-90) and Osman Sirin (207-F-90, college: Charlotte) are most probably candidates for Galatasaray Medical Park Istanbul but their teams want to keep them all.


Crvena Zvezda inks 2-year deal with Rasko Katic - by Eurobasket News (T)

As expected, Rasko Katic (208-C-80, agency: Beo Basket) became a new member of Crvena Zvezda. The center penned a 2-year deal. Katic spent last two seasons with Partizan Belgrade. They won two Serbian league and Cup trophies together. Katic also won Adriatic league title with Partizan a year ago. The player was named 'Eurobasket.com All-Serbian League Center of the Year in 2011'. That season Katic averaged 9.6 points and 4.7 rebounds for 20 Serbian league games. He also added 6.9 ppg and 4.2 rpg for 16 Euroleague appearances. In Adriatic league 2010/11 Rasko Katic registered 8.9 ppg and 4.1 rpg for 28 games. Last season, the player had slightly lower numbers in all competitions. Before Partizan, Rasko Katic played one year for Hemofarm. From 2005 to 2009, he was a member of the German team Walter Tigers Tuebingen and he participated at the All-Star Game in 2008. In 2007, Katic was named Eurobasket.com All-German Bundesliga Bosman Player of the Year. The player already spent some time with Crvena Zvezda and it was in 2004/05 season.
Crvena Zvezda already made few big signings earlier this summer. Before Rasko Katic, they landed Americans Elton Brown (206-C-83, college: Virginia) and Morris Almond (198-F/G-85, college: Rice). The team also returned former Euroleague scoring champion Igor Rakocevic (193-G-78). Boris Savovic (206-F-87, agency: Beo Basket) moved from Galatasaray to Crvena Zvezda and Marko Simonovic (202-F-86, agency: Beo Basket) arrived from ALBA Berlin. The main target for Crvena Zvezda for the next season will be to dethrone Partizan and to win the championship title in Serbia.


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  EUROLEAGUE   


Asseco Prokom signs Australian Julian Khazzouh - by Eurobasket News (T)

Asseco Prokom signs Julian Khazzouh (209-C-86) for the next three seasons. The Australian player will come from Sydney. In 2011-2012 for Sydney Kings (NBL, starting five) he averaged 16.4ppg, Reb-1 (10.8rpg), 1.7apg, Blocks-1 (2.1bpg), FGP: 48.5%, 3PT: 8.0%, FT: 68.0%.
In 2008-2009 he played for Sydney Spirit (NBL, starting five) and showed 15.2ppg, Reb-5 (10.8ppg), 1.2apg, 1.3spg, Blocks-1 (1.9bpg), FGP: 47.9%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 56.4%. In Dec.'08 moved to Hanzevast Capitals Groningen (Holland-Eredivisie, starting five) and after 28 games had: 11.5ppg, 7.9rpg, 1.3spg, Blocks-2 (1.5bpg), FGP-3 (64.1%), 3PT: 38.7%, FT: 56.5%.
The season 2009-2010 Julian Khazzouh appeared for Ironi Kfar Hamaccabia Ramat Gan (Israel-Premier League, starting five) and showed 10.8ppg, 6.3rpg, 1.0spg, Blocks-4 (1.3bpg), FGP: 61.2%, 3PT: 30.0%, FT: 78.7%. In 2010-2011 moved to Sydney Kings (NBL, starting five) and became the fourth top-scorer of the league with17.4ppg, Reb-1 (10.0rpg), 1.7apg, 1.0spg, Blocks-2 (1.8bpg), FGP: 55.7%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 79.1%.
During his time with the Warriors, Khazzouh played in one pre-season game against the Sacramento Kings where he scored two points in limited minutes. In NBL games so far this season Khazzouh is a clear MVP favourite, leading the league in both rebounds (11 per game) and blocks (2.1 per game) and second in scoring (18.6 points per game) over the first 13 games of the season.


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  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS   


EuroBasket 2013 Qualifying Round. Day 5 - by Eurobasket News

Group A
Iceland - Estonia 67-86
Estonia brings victory from Reykjavik. They claimed a comprehensive victory over Iceland to gain 3-2 record in EuroBasket Qualifying Round Group A. Kristjan Kangur (201-SF-82) delivered 26 points to pace the Baltic team. Iceland fell at 1-4 record after the loss. Estonia stormed into the game. They accounted for 25 points in the opening quarter to take a 10-point lead. Estonia held the hosts to 12 points in the second frame to ensure an 11-point cushion at halftime. The visitors unloaded 28 points in the third quarter to clear off. They accumulated an insurmountable 24-point advantage before the final stanza. Iceland knocked down 25 points in the final term but could not avoid the loss at the end. Siim-Sander Vene (203-SF-90, agency: Alti Sport) posted 16 points and 9 boards, while Janar Talts added 13 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Jon Stefansson (196-G-82) answered with 19 points for Iceland. Helgi Magnusson chipped in 16 points in the losing effort.

Slovakia - Montenegro 81-94
Montenegro keep the perfect 5-0 record in Group A of the EuroBasket Qualification Round. The team overcame Slovakia 94:81 in the start of the 5th Day. The latter fell at 0-5 record after the loss in Levice. Montenegro took 23:20 lead at the halftime. Moreover the guests added massive 24-12 in the second period and enjoyed 47:32 after Sekulic Blagota's shot. Slovakia meanwhile produced 24-23 in the third quarter and actually came up with another narrow win in the last stanza. Anton Gavel (188-PG-84, agency: Pro One Sports) reduced to minimum 79:76 but Montenegro needed a final pushed for the final success. Suad Sehovic (196-G/F-87) top-scored for the winners with 16 points and Milko Bjelica (205-F/C-84, agency: Beo Basket) nailed 15. Sekulic Blagota posted 14, while Dubljevic Bojan and Dasic Vladimir had 13 each. Anton Gavel replied with 23 points and 10 assists, while Pandula Dusan nailed 20. Batka Michal and Vido Roman delivered 10 points each in a loss.

Israel-Serbia 89:76

Fabulous Israel wins again, improves to 3-2 record at the EuroBasket Qualification Round. The team overcame Serbia 89:76 in the last game of Day 5. Both teams share the second place with the same record.
With the score 8-8, Casspi buried a three-pointer and then he and Ohayon scored with lay-ups. Israel managed to win the first period 25:15 and never looked behind in the game. Both teams nailed 23 points each in the second period as Pnini posted three for 48:38 at the end of the half. Serbia reduced to 9 points at the end of the third quarter after 18-17 in the third period. Israel however needed 24-20 for 13-point victory.
Omri Casspi (204-SF-88) top-scored for the winners with 23 points and Lior Eliyahu (203-SF-85, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices) netted 22. Yogev Ohayon (190-PG-87) delivered 19, while Alex Tyus posted 12. Zoran Erceg and Milos Teodosic produced 10 points each in the losing effort. Nenad Krstic and Milenko Tepic followed the with 9 points apiece.

Group B
Sweden - Luxembourg 111-74
Sweden improved to 2-2 record in Group B of the EuroBasket Qualification Round. The door to EuroBasket 2013 hasn't slammed shut for Sweden after 111:74 win over Luxembourg. Sweden easily took 27:13 after the first period and added 28-24 in the second frame. The Scandinavian team did not slow down in the second half and produced also two victories. They came up with 31-16 in the third period and finished the game with 25-21 in the lasts stanza. Person made two free throws for 104:70, while Alexander Lindqvist and Rush made it 108:72. Anton Saks (200-SF-89) nailed three for the final result in the game. Anton Saks stepped up with 16 points for the winners and Christian Maraker (206-PF-82, college: Pacific) as well as Jonas Jerebko had 14 each. Kenny Grant and Alexander Lindqvist followed them with 13 points apiece. Christopher Jones (186-G-90) replied with 17 points in the losing effort and Samy Picard delivered 14. Martin Rajniak netted 11 and Tom Schumacher posted 10.

Azerbaijan - Germany 68-85
Germany registered the fourth straight win at the 2013 EuroBasket Qualifying Round. They knocked down Azerbaijan in Baku to stay perfect in Group B. Lucca Staiger (195-SG-88, college: Iowa St.) delivered 18 points to lead the winners. Azerbaijan fell at 2-2 record suffering the second loss in a row. Germany eked out a 17:15 lead after ten minutes. They stretched the margin in the second quarter. The visitors accounted for a 43:34 halftime lead. Germany maintained the lead throughout the third period. They accumulated a 59:50 buffer heading into the fourth stanza. Germany did not allow the hosts any closer in the final quarter rolling to a confident win at the end. Heiko Schaffartzik (183-PG-84) notched 16 points, while Robin Benzing and Tibor Pleiss contributed 15 points each in the victory. Charles Davis (205-C-84, college: Alabama) answered with 31 points, 6 boards and 4 assists for Azerbaijan. Orhan Haciyeva netted 11 points in the loss.

Group C
Austria - Croatia 75-82
Croatia clinched the fourth consecutive win in Group C of 2013 EuroBasket Qualifying Round. They defeated Austria on the road tonight. Bojan Bogdanovic (203-SG-89) accounted for 19 points to pace the winners. Austria fell at 1-3 record after the loss. Austria unexpectedly grabbed an early lead. The hosts secured a 23:20 lead after ten minutes. But Croatia picked up the slack and denied the deficit in the second quarter. The visitors piled up a 44:35 halftime lead. Austria did not surrender as they Rasid Mahalbasic (208-C-90) drew things level at 50 midway through the third period. But Croatia were able to eke out a 60:58 advantage after three quarters of action. Maresch knotted things up at 64 early in the fourth frame. Croatia needed 9:0 run to clear off. They posted a 77:68 advantage. Austria did not recover allowing Croatia to escape with a tough victory. Roko-Leni Ukic (196-PG-84) netted 14 points, issued 7 assists and grabbed 4 boards, while Pavle Marcinkovic added 11 points for the winners. Rasid Mahalbasic replied with 21 points for Austria. Jason Detrick and Davor Lamesic had 11 points each in the loss.

Hungary - Cyprus 77-64
Hungary clinched the second victory in 2013 EuroBasket Qualifying Round. They knocked down Cyprus at home court to climb at 2-2 record in Group C. Peter Lorant (206-PF-85, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) delivered 25 points and 7 rebounds to lead the charge. Cyprus suffered the fourth straight loss. The teams stayed close throughout the opening quarter. Hungary and Cyprus were tied at 21 after ten minutes. The hosts however stiffened their defence in the second quarter. They limited Cyprus at 9 points in the period and ensured a 9-point lead at halftime 39:30. Hungary also improved offensively in the second half. They erupted for 26 points in the third quarter to gain a 15-point lead before the fourth quarter. Cyprus narrowed the gap in the fourth term but had little chance to save the encounter. Adam Hanga (200-SG-89, agency: TSS Management) finished with 22 points, while Miklos Szabo added 7 points for the winners. Panagiotis Trisokkas (206-PF-80) accounted for 20 points and 9 rebounds for Cyprus. Anthony King netted 17 points and pulled down 9 caroms in the loss.

Group D
Latvia - Romania 89-53
Latvia celebrated the second win in 2013 EuroBasket qualification. They stormed past Romania in Riga. Latvia thus improved at 2-2 record in Group D. Romania slipped at 1-3 record after the loss. Rihards Kuksiks (197-SF-88, college: Arizona St.) stepped up with 19 points for the winners. Latvia earned a 7-point lead after ten minutes of action. Latvia boosted the lead in the second quarter. The hosts unleashed 28 points in the period to establish a 49:29 halftime lead. Latvia kept Romania at bay throughout the third term. They held Romania to just 10 points in the frame taking a 31-point advantage before the final stanza. The visitors never recovered as Latvia coasted to the victory in the final frame. Edgars Jeromanovs (190-PG-86) accounted for 16 points, while Dairis Bertans added 13 points in the victory. Andrei Mandache (191-G/F-87, agency: Global Sports Plaza) replied with 14 points for Romania. Vlad Moldoveanu had 11 points in the loss.

Holland - Georgia 91-88
Netherlands pip Georgia in Almere at the EuroBasket Qualification Round. The Dutch team handed the Georgian side their first loss in Group D after 91:88 success. Netherlands meanwhile celebrated the first win for 1-3 record in the group. Georgia entered the game undefeated and started with 19-15 lead after the first period. They added 28-24 in the second frame and enjoyed 41:28 at the end of the second frame. Kees Akerboom (200-SF-83, agency: Court Side) however reduced to 47:39 at the halftime and then the hosts started o take control of the game. Smeulders Robin tied the game at 59:59 and Rogier Jansen (188-G-84, agency: Court Side) gave his side 72:70 early in the last period. Kees Akerboom and Rogier Jansen brought the final points from the free throw line and Shengelia Tornike managed only to reduce to 3 points at the end. Rogier Jansen top-scored for the winners with 24 points and Kees Akerboom notched 22. Norel Henk delivered 12, while Smeulders Robin posted 10. Zaza Pachulia (210-C-84) ended up with 23 points in the losing effort and Shengelia Tornike had 20. Pullen Jacob produced 16 and Markoishvili Manuchar netted 15.

Group E
Belgium - Albania 97-59
Belgium clinch big win over Albania for 3-1 record in Group E of the EuroBasket Qualification Round. The Belgium side satisfied more than 4000 local fans in Antwerp after 97:59 win. Albania meanwhile fell at 0-4 record on the bottom of the group. Sam Van Rossom (188-PG-86) scored two three-pointers in the opening tip as the hosts won the first period 22:13. Gillet scored four in a row in the start of the second frame, while Wen Boss Mukubu (198-F-83, agency: SportsTalent, college: UAB) brought 39:15. Gillet sent the teams to the lockers at 52:22 and then Sam Van Rossom scored for 57:25. Ndoja replied with two three-pointers for Albania and reduced to 59:31. He also scored the last three points for his side at the end of the frame for 73:45. Belgium added 24-14 in the last stanza for the final success. Sam Van Rossom paced all the winners with 19 points and Wen Boss Mukubu poured in 18. Tabu-Eboma Beye delivered 13, while Muya Guy and Mwema Jean-Marc had 10 each. Klaudio Ndoja (198-SG-85) and Gerti Shima (202-PF-86) collected 16 points each, while the latter also had 13 caroms. Karaj Erkand netted 12, whilst Hysenagolli Endrit posted 8.

Switzerland - Finland 60-89
Finland stayed perfect in 2013 EuroBasket Qualifying Round Group E. They fired past Switzerland in Fribourg tonight to gain 4-0 record on top of Group E. Switzerland fell at 1-3 record. Hanno Mottola (209-PF-76, college: Utah) delivered 17 points to lead the winners. Finland dropped 26 points in the opening quarter to spur ahead. They accumulated a 7-point lead after ten minutes. The Finnish team extended the lead in the second quarter. They piled up a comfortable 49:29 halftime lead. Finland limited the hosts to just 8 points in the third quarter. The visitors accumulated a 30-point lead at the final intermission. Switzerland outscored Finland in the fourth term but only sweetened the pill at the end. Petteri Koponen (194-PG-88) chipped in 15 points, while Ville Kaunisto and Gerald Lee had 11 points each in the victory. Oliver Vogt (209-C-80) answered with 13 points and 8 rebounds for Switzerland. Jonathan Dubas had 12 points in the loss.

Group F
Portugal - Belarus 75-82
Belarus clinched the initial win at 2013 EuroBasket Qualifying Round. They upset Portugal on the road to improve at 1-3 record in Group F. Portugal remained winless at 0-4. Artsiom Parakhouski (210-C-87, college: Radford) came up with 19 points to lead the visitors. Belarus started the game strong. They got away at 13-point distance after ten minutes 28:15. Portugal however stopped the rot in the second quarter. The hosts narrowed the deficit at just 7-point mark at halftime 37:44. Artsiom Parakhouski quickly restored an 11-point lead for the visitors in the third quarter. However Portugal almost denied it getting within just one 57:58 at the final intermission. Aliaksandr Pustahvar (203-SF-85, agency: RU-Basket Management) and Stiggers gave Belarus a 67:57 lead early in the final stanza. The hosts did not surrender and trimmed the deficit at just five-point mark with under two minutes remaining. Aliaksandr Pustahvar accounted for key four points in the dying seconds to seal the victory for Belarus. Aliaksandr Pustahvar delivered 13 points, while Aliaksei Trastsinetski added 10 points for the winners. Mario Fernandes (174-PG-82) answered with 19 points for Portugal. Claudio Fonseca netted 15 points in the loss.

Czech Republic - Turkey 82-64
Czech Republic demolish Turkey in Chomutov for 3-1 record in Group F. The team erupted with 82:64 win for the second place behind Italy. Turkey meanwhile fell at 2-2 record on the third place. Czech Republic started with 21-19 in front of 2200 fans in Chomutov. Petr Benda (204-C-82, agency: Court Side) scored for 29:21 and Jakub Kudlacek (193-PG-90) brought 33:30. Jelinek closed it at 35:30, while Pumprla closed the run at 40:30. Czech Republic had 22-18 in the third period for 57:48 after three quarters. Jelinek increased the lead to 15 points early in the fourth when it was clear about the winner. Tomas Satoransky (201-PG-91) scored for 78:61 and Jiri Welsch (199-SG-80) made the final result in the game. Tomas Satoransky paced all the winners with 16 points, while Petr Benda, Jiri Welsch and Jakub Kudlacek added 14 apiece. Kerem Gonlum (208-PF-77) and Semih Erden (211-F/C-86) replied with 13 points each in defeat, while Cetin posted 12. Preldzic followed them with 10 points in the losing effort.


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  FINLAND   


Finland thump Switzerland in Fribourg - by Eurobasket News

Switzerland - Finland 60:89

Finland stayed perfect in 2013 EuroBasket Qualifying Round Group E. They fired past Switzerland in Fribourg tonight to gain 4-0 record on top of Group E. Switzerland fell at 1-3 record. Hanno Mottola (209-PF-76, college: Utah) delivered 17 points to lead the winners.
Finland dropped 26 points in the opening quarter to spur ahead. They accumulated a 7-point lead after ten minutes. The Finnish team extended the lead in the second quarter. They piled up a comfortable 49:29 halftime lead. Finland limited the hosts to just 8 points in the third quarter. The visitors accumulated a 30-point lead at the final intermission. Switzerland outscored Finland in the fourth term but only sweetened the pill at the end. Petteri Koponen (194-PG-88) chipped in 15 points, while Ville Kaunisto (205-F-82) and Gerald Lee (208-C-87, college: ODU) had 11 points each in the victory. Oliver Vogt (209-C-80) answered with 13 points and 8 rebounds for Switzerland. Jonathan Dubas (202-SF-91) had 12 points in the loss.

Switzerland: Oliver Vogt 13, Jonathan Dubas 12
Finland: Hanno Mottola 17, Petteri Koponen 15, Ville Kaunisto 11, Gerald Lee 11


Namika Lahti bring in Emmanuel Holloway - by Eurobasket News (T)

Emmanuel Holloway (188-G-86, college: Illinois St.) is changing the team in Finland. The guard is moving to Namika Lahti. He will represent the team in the next season. Emmanuel Holloway spent the last season with Salon Vilpas. The guard notched 18.3 points, 4.1 rebounds, 3.3 assists and 1.8 steals per game for the Vikings in Korisliiga. Previously Emmanuel Holloway had stints with Brno and Hannover Tigers. He was named All-German 2.Bundesliga ProA Defensive Player of the Year in 2010. The guard also made it into All-German 2.Bundesliga ProA 1st Team. Emmanuel Holloway graduated from Illinois State University in 2009. The guard was named into All-MVC Most Improved Team in his senior season.


EUROBASKET: Finland still undefeated - by Rauno Hurmalainen

EuroBasket, Qualifying Round, Group E: Finland is still undefeated after four rounds. Tonight Finland visiting Fribourg in Switzerland and winning over the hosting Swiss Team 60-89 (29-49). Quarters: 19-26, 10-23, 8-18, 23-22. The wolf team Finland defense was tough once again. Switzerland got two players a bit over 10 points and had 26 turnovers in the contest. Finland Head Coach Henrik Dettmann gave the most playing time to Petteri Koponen (194-PG-88) (22:32 min). Hanno Mottola (209-PF-76, college: Utah) played 15:30 minutes and led Finland with 17 points. Just one Finnish player out of 12 didn't score a point. Four players were in double digits.
Switzerland - Finland 60-89 (29-49). S: Oliver Vogt 13/8, Jonathan Dubas 12, Jonathan Kazadi 8. 1 - 77,8% (14/18), 2 - 42,5% (17/40), 3 - 30,8% (4/13). R: 34. TO: 26. - F: Hanno Mottola 17, Petteri Koponen 15, Ville Kaunisto 11, Gerald Lee Jr 11. 1 - 69,6% (16/23), 2 - 53,5% (23/43), 3 - 28,1% (9/32). R: 32. TO: 9.
Next game: Albania - Finland on September 2.


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  FRANCE   


Hyeres-Toulon tab Landing Sane - by Eurobasket News (T)

Hyeres-Toulon bolstered their frontcourt. They added Landing Sane (207-C/F-90). The centre spent the last three season in Paris-Levallois. Last season Landing Sane averaged 0.4 points and 1.0 board per game in ProA. He was the member of U18, U19 and U20 French National Teams.


Hyeres-Toulon add Jeremy Price - by Eurobasket News (T)

Jeremy Price (203-F-88, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Georgia) will continue his career in France. The forward has agreed on terms of contract with Hyeres-Toulon. The deal is meant for one season. Jeremy Price started his pro career last season. He joined Kataja in Finland. The forward notched 11.0 points and 5.5 boards per game in Korisliiga. Jeremy Price was Finnish League finalist with Kataja. He also became Finnish Cup winner. The forward graduated from the University of Georgia in 2011. He averaged 9.3 points and 5.0 rebounds per game in his senior season. In 2008 Jeremy Price made it into SEC All-Freshmen Team.


Carlos Cherry is a newcomer at Quimper UJAP - by Eurobasket News (T)

Quimper UJAP (NM1) added to their roster 33-year old Spanish point guard Carlos Cherry (184-79, agency: Global Sports Plaza). He played most recently at Caceres Basket in Spanish LEB Gold. While playing 44 games for Caceres last season Cherry averaged 8.4ppg, 1.7rpg and 2.6apg. He helped them to make it to the semifinals. Cherry is a very experienced player.

By Eurobasket Data Center


Boulazac beat JA Vichy in a friendly - by Eurobasket News

Boulazac BD (Pro A)- JA Vichy (NM1) 87:72

Boulazac beat JA Vichy in a friendly game in the only one last night. The Pro A team celebrated an 87:72 victory.
Both teams scored 20 points in the first period and then Vichy produced the same number of points in the second one. Boulazac meanwhile posted 22 and grabbed 2-point lead at the halftime. The third period was decisive in the game and gave the favorites 34-11 in it. Boulazac did not mind 11-21 in the last stanza for the final result.
Osiris Eldridge (191-G-88, agency: N.E.T., college: Illinois St.) and Justin Hawkins (201-SF-85, agency: Two Points, college: N.Mexico St.) top-scored for the winners with 16 points each, while Amadi McKenzie (201-PF-86, college: Tenn Tech) netted 12. CHERIET Medhi followed them with 10 points in a win. Justin Reynolds (204-F/C-88, college: Texas A&M-CC) replied with 19 points in the losing effort and THSOMA Douglas brought 17. Gregory Lessort (197-F/C-85) and FAYE Neguib delivered 9 points apiece.

Boulazac BD (Pro A): Osiris Eldridge 16, Justin Hawkins 16, Amadi McKenzie 12, CHERIET Medhi 10
JA Vichy (NM1): Justin Reynolds 19, THSOMA Douglas 17, Gregory Lessort 9, FAYE Neguib 9


Hello world! - by Daviin Davis

Hello, my name is Daviin Davis and i play in france for ADA blois. Im a from Midland, Tx and small town in west texas know for its old and flat lands. This is my forth year as a pro before that i attended THE WEBER ST university. My first year i play in finland for JOENSUUN KATAJA in 2009. but was released after 2 months and found myself in lativa with the club BKVALMIERA. We made it to the final four and ended up in 4th for the season. In 2010-11 France was my new home with ALM EVREUX we finished 5th and lost in the first round of the playoffs. The 2011- 12 start off tough with me not having a club for whatever reason many say the NBA Lockout i say it was gods will. In late december i found myself back in france, which is a place i love playing if you have never been to france i would tell you to plan a trip because its a beautiful and breath taking country. ADA Blois is the team i was and am playing for now. I came to a very good team. they were in 5 place when i got to the team, and i wanted to just help make them better. After a slow start which i felt was normal after a 7 month layoff. i found myself and start playing and helping more and more with each game. We finish the season playing for the championship and to move to pro B. we fought had but came up empty against a very good Charleville Team. The feeling i had after that lost is a feeling i never want to experience again. So after a good summer of improving my shooting and ball handing and knowing the players we have coming back to Blois i feel we have a great chance to move up to Pro B next season. So far we have had 2 weeks of tough training as we get back into shape and learning things the coach's want us to do on the floor.

In my blogs i want to give you my thoughts and points of views of the french and also the basketball landscape in europe. i also whjat to share my expereinces off the court. Basketball has taken me to places i could only dream of as a boy i nvite you to take this journey with me!! you can also follow me on twitter@daviindavis and instagram@daviind

until next time Take care and good bless....."CHOSEN LAST BUT BEST PICK"


*****************************************************
  GEORGIA   


Netherlands pip Georgia in Almere - by Eurobasket News

Netherlands-Georgia 91:88

Netherlands pip Georgia in Almere at the EuroBasket Qualification Round. The Dutch team handed the Georgian side their first loss in Group D after 91:88 success. Netherlands meanwhile celebrated the first win for 1-3 record in the group.
Georgia entered the game undefeated and started with 19-15 lead after the first period. They added 28-24 in the second frame and enjoyed 41:28 at the end of the second frame. Kees Akerboom (200-SF-83, agency: Court Side) however reduced to 47:39 at the halftime and then the hosts started o take control of the game. Robin Smeulders (207-F-87, agency: Court Side, college: Portland) tied the game at 59:59 and Rogier Jansen (188-G-84, agency: Court Side) gave his side 72:70 early in the last period. Kees Akerboom and Rogier Jansen brought the final points from the free throw line and Tornike Shengelia (207-PF-91) managed only to reduce to 3 points at the end.
Rogier Jansen top-scored for the winners with 24 points and Kees Akerboom notched 22. Henk Norel (214-C-87) delivered 12, while Robin Smeulders posted 10. Zaza Pachulia (210-C-84) ended up with 23 points in the losing effort and Tornike Shengelia had 20. Jacob Pullen (183-PG-89, college: Kansas St.) produced 16 and Manuchar Markoishvili (196-SF-86) netted 15.

Netherlands: Rogier Jansen 24, Kees Akerboom 22, Henk Norel 12, Robin Smeulders 10
Georgia: Zaza Pachulia 23, Tornike Shengelia 20, Jacob Pullen 16, Manuchar Markoishvili 15


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


Germany upset Azerbaijan in Baku - by Eurobasket News

Azerbaijan - Germany 68:85

Germany registered the fourth straight win at the 2013 EuroBasket Qualifying Round. They knocked down Azerbaijan in Baku to stay perfect in Group B. Lucca Staiger (195-SG-88, college: Iowa St.) delivered 18 points to lead the winners. Azerbaijan fell at 2-2 record suffering the second loss in a row.
Germany eked out a 17:15 lead after ten minutes. They stretched the margin in the second quarter. The visitors accounted for a 43:34 halftime lead. Germany maintained the lead throughout the third period. They accumulated a 59:50 buffer heading into the fourth stanza. Germany did not allow the hosts any closer in the final quarter rolling to a confident win at the end. Heiko Schaffartzik (183-PG-84) notched 16 points, while Robin Benzing (209-SF-89) and Tibor Pleiss (215-C-89) contributed 15 points each in the victory. Charles Davis (205-C-84, college: Alabama) answered with 31 points, 6 boards and 4 assists for Azerbaijan. Orhan Haciyeva (200-PF-89) netted 11 points in the loss.

Azerbaijan: Charles Davis 31, Orhan Haciyeva 11
Germany: Lucca Staiger 18, Heiko Schaffartzik 16, Robin Benzing 15+13 boards, Tibor Pleiss 15


Larry Gordon Gets Contract With Phoenix Hagen - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber (T)

According to www.derwesten.de, Phoenix Hagen have given try out player Larry Gordon (196-F-87, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Cal Poly Pomona) a contract until the end of the season. Gordon is a 25 year old 196cm forward that is playing his first season in Germany. He played at Cal Poly Pomona (NCAA2) from 2005-2009 playing a total of 116 NCAA games. With Cal Poly Pomona (NCAA2), he was a NCAA D2 Finalist and CCAA Player of the Year in 2009. In his first three seasons as a professional, he played in Holland and the last two seasons in Austria for ECE Bulls Kapfenberg (Austria-A Bundesliga). Last season, he played 38 games: 14.7ppg, Reb-3 (8.4rpg), 1.8apg, FGP-3 (65.2%), 3PT: 36.2%, FT: 77.1%. The team also has stressed their happiness with their other try out player Abe Lodwick who has a try out contract until September 16th. Lodwick is a rookie and played at Washington St. (NCAA) from 2007-2012 playing a total of 105 NCAA games. "No matter if it is in a practice or game, he always gives everything. He throws himself at every loose ball, fires up his teammates and pushes them forward", stressed Phoenix Hagen CEO Oliver Herkelmann.




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


Kavala signs Jeremy Fears - by Eurobasket News (T)

Kavala continues with signings for the upcoming season. Their latest addition is American Jeremy Fears (196-G-85, college: Bradley), who penned a 2-year deal. The American guard arrives from the Austrian team ECE Bulls Kapfenberg. He appeared 34 times for them last season averaging 17.1 points, 6.5 assists, 3 rebounds and 2.5 steals. Fears was named to Eurobasket.com Austrian League All-Imports Team -12 and also to Eurobasket.com All-Austrian League 2nd Team -12. He was the league's No.1 in steals and No.2 in assists. Jeremy Fears joined Kapfenberg in March of 2011. He started that season with Polish Poznan. In the past, the guard played in Slovakia in Hungary. In 2010 he was named Eurobasket.com All-Slovakian League Import Player of the Year -10. In 2008/09, Fears also played for Kapfenberg and it was his first season as a pro.


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


MBB Cruises To 39-Point Win Over Rotterdam - by Eurobasket News

ROTTERDAM, Holland - The University of Colorado men's basketball team broke open a six-point first quarter lead into a 23-point cushion at halftime and cruised to a 96-57 victory over the Rotterdam Challengers, Monday night at the Topsportcentrum.

The Buffaloes dominated every facet of the game from a 55-29 advantage on the glass and forced Rotterdam into 25 turnovers. CU shot 47 percent from the field (41-of-87) to wrap up the five-game exhibition against semi-professional teams from France, Belgium and The Netherlands with a 2-3 record.

"I thought tonight was our best performance as a team; offensively, defensively, our bench played very well and I was really pleased with the way we played," said CU head coach Tad Boyle. "Individually, there were some great performances as well. The best thing from this trip is every player really improved; every player got a chance to play and get in the flow of real-live game situations against good competition. This trip is invaluable to our program this year."

CU recorded a five-game best 47 made field goals with four players in double figures led by freshman forward Josh Scott (6'10''-F) with 19 points (8-of-13) and five rebounds; junior forward Andre Roberson (6'7''-F-91) (18 points, 12 rebounds) and freshman forward Xavier Johnson (11 points, 10 rebounds) notched double-doubles; and senior guard Sabatino Chen poured in 11 points, six rebounds, six assists, and six steals.

Freshman forward Wesley Gordon chipped-in with eight points and six rebounds, while sophomore guard Askia Booker added nine points and five assists. Everyone played in the game for CU with 11 of 13 players scoring (Dinwiddie and Beau Gamble six points each; Xavier Talton four points and five rebounds; Ben Mills and Eli Stalzer two points each). Juniors Jeremy Adams (6'5''-G-90) and Shane Harris-Tunks (6'11''-F/C-90) did not play in any of the games as both are nursing injuries.

With a six-point first quarter lead (26-20) engineered by Scott's seven points and Chen's four assists, CU held the Challengers scoreless through the first 4:40 of the second quarter jumping out to a 34-20 lead before the home team scored their first basket.

CU then raced out to a 42-22 margin behind Scott's eight points, then three-point plays by Booker and Dinwiddie pushed their advantage to 57-34 at the break. Rotterdam was out-scored 31-14 in the second quarter, while CU also dominated the glass during the first 20 minutes by a 32-13 margin.

The third quarter was the same as the second as Chen scored six of CU's next 10 points for a 67-34 lead, while Rotterdam only mustered 10 points in the third quarter. CU's starters out-scored Rotterdam starters, 53-27.

The attendance for the game 374 was the largest crowd to see the Buffaloes in the five game exhibition schedule, and in fact, surpassed the previous four games combined.

Chip Jones led Rotterdam with nine points. Jones and three others each had five rebounds apiece.

CU closes its stay in Amsterdam on Tuesday with a tour of the Anne Frank House in the afternoon followed by a Canal Cruise and BBQ farewell dinner. Wednesday morning the Buffaloes depart Amsterdam en route to Chicago then Denver later that night.
Courtesy of: www.cubuffs.com


Netherlands pip Georgia in Almere - by Eurobasket News

Netherlands-Georgia 91:88

Netherlands pip Georgia in Almere at the EuroBasket Qualification Round. The Dutch team handed the Georgian side their first loss in Group D after 91:88 success. Netherlands meanwhile celebrated the first win for 1-3 record in the group.
Georgia entered the game undefeated and started with 19-15 lead after the first period. They added 28-24 in the second frame and enjoyed 41:28 at the end of the second frame. Kees Akerboom (200-SF-83, agency: Court Side) however reduced to 47:39 at the halftime and then the hosts started o take control of the game. Robin Smeulders (207-F-87, agency: Court Side, college: Portland) tied the game at 59:59 and Rogier Jansen (188-G-84, agency: Court Side) gave his side 72:70 early in the last period. Kees Akerboom and Rogier Jansen brought the final points from the free throw line and Tornike Shengelia (207-PF-91) managed only to reduce to 3 points at the end.
Rogier Jansen top-scored for the winners with 24 points and Kees Akerboom notched 22. Henk Norel (214-C-87) delivered 12, while Robin Smeulders posted 10. Zaza Pachulia (210-C-84) ended up with 23 points in the losing effort and Tornike Shengelia had 20. Jacob Pullen (183-PG-89, college: Kansas St.) produced 16 and Manuchar Markoishvili (196-SF-86) netted 15.

Netherlands: Rogier Jansen 24, Kees Akerboom 22, Henk Norel 12, Robin Smeulders 10
Georgia: Zaza Pachulia 23, Tornike Shengelia 20, Jacob Pullen 16, Manuchar Markoishvili 15


ZZ Leiden brings prospect Averink home - by Fred Roggen (T)

Dutch Cup winner ZZ Leiden announced Monday on its website that it has agreed to terms with Dutch prospect Kasper Averink (183-PG-93), who returns to his boyhood club. The 19-year-old Kasper Averink (183-PG-93) is a native Leidenaar, grew up in the Leiden ranks and is a product of their own youth program. After growing up with ZZ Leiden and playing for its second senior team, he left to play basketball in Slovakia for BC Prievidza, where he became Slovakian League Champion. Averink averaged 4.2ppg, 1.1rpg in 35 Slovakia-Extraliga games last season.
Averink has also been a member of the Dutch junior national teams. This summer he averaged 6.8ppg, 6.8rpg, 1.6apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 66.7%, 3PT: 18.2%, FT: 80.0% at the European Championships U20 Division B in Sofia (Bulgaria).


Dutch prospect Torben Tonjann signed deal with San Isidrio - by Fred Roggen (T)

Spanish site San Isidrio (La Orotava, Tenerife) announced today the signing of teenage forward Torben Tonjann (203-C-94) for the upcoming season. The 18-year-old Dutch prospect arrives from Caceres Ciudad del Baloncesto (Spain-EBA), where he averaged 4.7 points and 2.8 rebounds in 15 Spanish EBA League games last season. The Dutch player will also practice with CB Canarias (ACB).
Since his arrival in Spain (2009) ,San Isidrio is already the fourth Spanish team, he also played for Regal FC Barcelona, CEBA Guadalajara and Caceres Ciudad del Baloncesto.

Standings - Promotie Divisie

Prom.Divisie Standings
 1. Almere P. 0-0 
 2. Almonte 0-0 
 3. BC Apollo 2 0-0 
 4. Binnenland 0-0 
 5. Cangeroes 0-0 
 6. De Groene 0-0 
 7. De Hoppers 0-0 
 8. Leiden 2 0-0 
 9. MSV/Zeemacht 0-0 
 10. Orcas Urk 0-0 
 11. Punch 0-0 
 12. Red Giants 0-0 
 13. Rotterdam 2 0-0 
 14. UBALL 0-0 


Standings - Eredivisie

Eredivisie Standings
 1. Amsterdam 0-0 
 2. Den Bosch 0-0 
 3. Den Helder K. 0-0 
 4. Groningen 0-0 
 5. Leeuwarden 0-0 
 6. Leiden 0-0 
 7. Nijmegen 0-0 
 8. Rotterdam 0-0 
 9. Weert 0-0 
 10. Zwolle 0-0 



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


Vasas Academy in the 1B Division - by Balazs Radics

First Hungarian Basketball Academy MKB Euroleasing Vasas will participate in the first division next season. The Academy already playng in the female A1 Division will start its first senior team in the men's competition in the 12/13 campaigne! Vasas won already the most titles in youth competitions over the last several years, now joined forces with Kozarmisleny SE and aiming to impact the B league instantly! With an average age of 18.07 years will be far the youngest first division squad with the mission to provide qualty minutes and roles for the most talented local players! Recently signed players like Norbert Timko (211-C/F-92), Krisztian Gorzsas, Janos Velkey, Peter Mohay, Szabolcs Nagy, Tamas Legendi, Gabor Szalas will join the talented Vasas grown bunch of Peter Bazsik, Levente Nagy, Balazs Torok, David Boinitzer, Erik Horvath, Balazs Illes, Balazs Schweighoffer and Viktor Fekete.


Hungary rally past Cyprus for second win - by Eurobasket News

Hungary - Cyprus 77:64

Hungary clinched the second victory in 2013 EuroBasket Qualifying Round. They knocked down Cyprus at home court to climb at 2-2 record in Group C. Peter Lorant (206-PF-85, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) delivered 25 points and 7 rebounds to lead the charge. Cyprus suffered the fourth straight loss.
The teams stayed close throughout the opening quarter. Hungary and Cyprus were tied at 21 after ten minutes. The hosts however stiffened their defence in the second quarter. They limited Cyprus at 9 points in the period and ensured a 9-point lead at halftime 39:30. Hungary also improved offensively in the second half. They erupted for 26 points in the third quarter to gain a 15-point lead before the fourth quarter. Cyprus narrowed the gap in the fourth term but had little chance to save the encounter. Adam Hanga (200-SG-89, agency: Peter Lorant%20Andras&AgencyNm=TSS Management">TSS Management) finished with 22 points, while Miklos Szabo (205-F/C-86, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group, college: Hofstra) added 7 points for the winners. Panagiotis Trisokkas (206-PF-80) accounted for 20 points and 9 rebounds for Cyprus. Anthony King (206-F/C-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Miami, FL) netted 17 points and pulled down 9 caroms in the loss.

Hungary: Peter Lorant 25, Adam Hanga 22, Miklos Szabo 7
Cyprus: Panagiotis Trisokkas 20, Anthony King 17


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  ICELAND   


Keflavik inks Kevin Giltner - by Snorri Arnaldsson (T)

Keflavik has signed Kevin Giltner (198-G-89) as one of their imports for the upcoming season. Kevin Giltner finished his college degree at Wofford and is starting his pro career.

Kevin Giltner averaged 14.9ppg, 4.3rpg and 1.9apg his senior year at Wofford and is expected to meet up with Keflavik in mid September, just 3 weeks before the beginning of the season. Giltner will bolster the backcourt in Keflavik, who recently lost Arnar Jonsson (184-G-83) to Denmark.


Kristjan Kangur leads Estonia past Iceland - by Eurobasket News

Iceland - Estonia 67:86

Estonia brings victory from Reykjavik. They claimed a comprehensive victory over Iceland to gain 3-2 record in EuroBasket Qualifying Round Group A. Kristjan Kangur (201-SF-82) delivered 26 points to pace the Baltic team. Iceland fell at 1-4 record after the loss.
Estonia stormed into the game. They accounted for 25 points in the opening quarter to take a 10-point lead. Estonia held the hosts to 12 points in the second frame to ensure an 11-point cushion at halftime. The visitors unloaded 28 points in the third quarter to clear off. They accumulated an insurmountable 24-point advantage before the final stanza. Iceland knocked down 25 points in the final term but could not avoid the loss at the end. Siim-Sander Vene (203-SF-90, agency: Alti Sport) posted 16 points and 9 boards, while Janar Talts (207-PF-83) added 13 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Jon Stefansson (196-G-82) answered with 19 points for Iceland. Helgi Magnusson (195-SF-82, college: Catawba) chipped in 16 points in the losing effort.

Iceland: Jon Stefansson 19, Helgi Magnusson 16
Estonia: Kristjan Kangur 26, Siim-Sander Vene 16, Janar Talts 13


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


Guni Israeli and Hapoel Jeruslaem part ways - by Eurobasket News (T)

Guni Israeli (183-PG-84, agency: Gross Zeev ISA) and Hapoel Jeruslaem part ways as the player will play for another team in 2012/2013 season. The Israeli point Guard spent just one year with the team.
In 2011-2012 he played for Hapoel Migdal Jerusalem (Premier League) and in EuroCup averaged 4.7ppg, 2.2rpg, 2.8apg, while in Israeli League showed 4.0ppg, 1.4rpg, 2.6apg.
Earlier he played for Galil Gilboa adn in Premier League 2010 averaged 6.5 points, 1.4 rebounds and 2.3 assists. The team made a huge surprise winning the first title in their history. Galil Gilboa finished regular season as No.3 with 14-8 rebounds and later eliminated Asheklon in the Playoff Quarterfinals (3-0). In the Semis, Galil Gilboa was better than Jerusalem 79-69 and finally they shocked Israeli giant Maccabi Electra 90-77 for the Premier League title. In this game, Guni Israeli helped his team with 6 points and 6 assists.
Season 2008/09 Guni Israeli also spent with Galil Gilboa. At that time he appeared in 25 Premier League game averaging 7.3 points, 2 rebounds, 3 assists and 1.3 steals. Before Galil Gilboa, he was a member of Hapoel Holon, Gilboa/Afula/Migdal Haemek, Maccabi Givat Shmuel and Lev Hasharon.


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


Chris Monroe reportedly close to Brescia - by Eurobasket News (T)

Chris Monroe (191-G-81, college: G.Washington) could become a new member of Leonessa Brescia soon. According to Dailybasket.it, the player is expected to sign a deal during the week, but nothing is officially confirmed so far. Monroe started last season with Budivelnyk Kyiv and in January moved to KAO Dramas. He finished the season with Ukrainian squad Khimik-OPZ Yuzny. Monroe played 5 games in Greece with KAOD registering 7 ppg, 1.8 rpg and 1.6 apg. He also added 8.7 ppg and 1.9 rpg for 7 Ukrainian league games with Budivelnyk. Later with Khimik he posted 9.3 ppg and 3.3 apg for 3 appearances. Chris Monroe spent some time with Enel Brindisi in 2010/11 season. He had 5.3 ppg and 2.7 rpg for 3 games, after what he got injured and two sides terminated their deal. In the past, he played for Armani Jeans Milano, PAOK, Roanne and Napoli. With Milano Chris Monroe had 7.5 ppg and 1.8 rpg for 13 SerieA games. He joined them in May of 2010 and stayed there until the end of 2009/10 season. Monroe also has experience from Hungary, where he was Player of the Year in 2006.


Virtus Bologna signs Ricky Minard - by Eurobasket News (T)

Virtus Bologna agreed a deal with Ricky Minard (196-F/G-82, college: Morehead St.) for the upcoming season, according to Bolognabasket. The team should announce his signing during the day. Minard finished last season with Novipiu Casale Monferrato. He joined them in February averaging 12.4 points, 3.5 rebounds and 3.4 assists for 12 games. The player started last season with Azovmash. There he shined with 16.4 ppg, 3.9 rpg, 2.4 apg and 2.3 spg for 8 EuroCup games. Minard also added 16 ppg, 4 rpg and 2.7 apg for 21 games in Ukrainian championship. His numbers were lower in VTB United League. In 2010/11 season Ricky Minard played for Unics Kazan. Before that he split one year between Lottomatica Virtus Roma and Khimky Moscow Region. He also has experience from Reggio Emilia and Biella.

Update: Virtus Bologna signed Ricky Minard, the player announced via Twitter.


Enel Brindisi brings in Stevan Milosevic for the training camp - by Eurobasket News (T)

Enel Brindisi brought in Stevan Milosevic (211-C-85, agency: Interperformances) for the training camp. The Montenegrin center finished last season with Georgian team Sokhumi Tbilisi. He joined them in March averaging 13.2 points and 8.4 rebounds for 5 Superleague games. They reached Playoff Semifinals. Before Sokhumi, Milosevic spent some time with Mornar Bar. There he had 7.5 ppg and 6.8 rpg in 4 Montenegrin league games. The player also added 7.3 ppg and 5.7 rpg for 3 appearances in Balkan League. Stevan Milosevic started last season with Turkish Trabzon. With them he had 4.8 ppg and 1.2 rpg for 5 games, after what they parted ways. In 2010/11 Milosevic played one month for Nizhny Novgorod and after that he finished the season with Cypriot AEL Limassol. In the past, he played for Dijon, Partizan, Koln 99ers and Crvena Zvezda. Stevan Milosevic is a product of Buducnost Podgorica.


VL Pesaro lands Antwain Barbour - by Eurobasket News (T)

Antwain Barbour (196-G/F-82, agency: Court Side, college: Kentucky) will continue his career in Italy. The American swingman penned a deal with VL Pesaro. He won the Croatian league title with Cibona Zagreb last season. Barbour had 10.3 ppg and 3.9 rpg for 15 domestic league games and was named to Eurobasket.com Croatian A1 League All-Imports Team -12. He also participated at the All-Star Game and was dunk contest winner. In Adriatic league, Barbour collected 12.8 ppg, 3.7 rpg and 2.6 apg in 24 games. He was named to Eurobasket.com Adriatic League All-Imports Team -12. Before Cibona, Antwain Barbour spent one year with Turkish Erdemir. He exploded there with 17.2 ppg, 4.1 rpg and 2.6 apg for 30 games. In 2009/10, Barbour played in Spain. He had 12.6 ppg and 2.8 rpg in 34 games with Lagun Aro. In the past, he was a member of LEB Gold teams Tenerife Rural and La Palma. In 2008 and 2009 Antwain Barbour was the scoring champion in LEB Gold with 19.5 and 18.9 ppg, respectively.


Mustafa Shakur will not play for Avellino - by Eurobasket News (T)

Mustafa Shakur (193-G-84, college: Arizona) will not play for Avellino as it was announced earlier. The American point guard did not agree a deal with Sidigas Avellino.
In 2011/2012 he played for Novipiu Casale Monferrato, but they were unable to agree terms on contract extension. The player had 16 ppg, 4.3 apg and 3.8 rpg for 21 games in SerieA. Mustafa Shakur joined Casale in November and he spent two months with Pau-Orthez before that. The player had 9.7 ppg, 4.5 rpg and 4.2 apg for 6 games in ProA. In 2010/11 season, Shakur played 22 NBA games for the Washington Wizards. There he had 2.3 ppg, 1.1 apg and 1 rpg. During the season he also collected 16.7 ppg, 5 apg and 4.7 rpg for 23 games in NBA D-League with Rio Grande Valley Vipers. In the past, Mustafa Shakur played for Tulsa 66ers, Panellinios, Tau Ceramica and Prokom Trefl Sopot.


Gino Cuccarolo returns to Angelico Biella - by Eurobasket News (T)

Gino Cuccarolo returns to Angelico Biella for the upcoming season. In 2011-2012 he played for Benetton Treviso (SerieA) and in EuroCup averaged 3.7ppg, 2.7rpg. In Italian League after 29 games his stats read 2.5ppg, 2.6rpg.

In 2011 Angelico Biella announced signing of center Gino Cuccarolo. Earlier he played six games for Benetton in SerieA this season averaging 3.3 points and 2.3 rebounds. In EuroCup, Cuccarolo added 1.3 ppg and 1.8 rpg in four games.
Gino Cuccarolo joined Benetton from A dilettanti team Consum.IT Siena. For 28 games with Consum.IT he had 8.6 ppg and 7.4 rpg. He was their member also in 2008/09. A year before that, Cuccarolo played for Montecatini in LegaDue. Gino Cuccarolo is a product of Benetton where he started as a teenager and stayed until 2007. In the past, he played for the Italian U16, U18 and U20 National Team. He won the Bronze at the U18 EuroBasket 2005 and U20 EuroBasket 2007.


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


Latvia cruise past Romania - by Eurobasket News

Latvia - Romania 89:53

Latvia celebrated the second win in 2013 EuroBasket qualification. They stormed past Romania in Riga. Latvia thus improved at 2-2 record in Group D. Romania slipped at 1-3 record after the loss. Rihards Kuksiks (197-SF-88, college: Arizona St.) stepped up with 19 points for the winners.
Latvia earned a 7-point lead after ten minutes of action. Latvia boosted the lead in the second quarter. The hosts unleashed 28 points in the period to establish a 49:29 halftime lead. Latvia kept Romania at bay throughout the third term. They held Romania to just 10 points in the frame taking a 31-point advantage before the final stanza. The visitors never recovered as Latvia coasted to the victory in the final frame. Edgars Jeromanovs (190-PG-86) accounted for 16 points, while Dairis Bertans (192-SG-89) added 13 points in the victory. Andrei Mandache (191-G/F-87, agency: Global Sports Plaza) replied with 14 points for Romania. Vlad Moldoveanu (209-F-88, college: American) had 11 points in the loss.

Latvia: Rihards Kuksiks 19, Edgars Jeromanovs 16, Dairis Bertans 13
Romania: Andrei Mandache 14, Vlad Moldoveanu 11


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  LITHUANIA   


Arturas Valeika joins Rudupis - by Eurobasket News (T)

Rudupis added another player to the roster. They agreed on terms of conract with Arturas Valeika (206-F-85, college: Midland CC). The forward spent the last season in Neptunas Klaipeda. He tallied 4.5 points, 4.6 rebounds and 1.1 assists per game in Baltic League. In LKL Arturas Valeika notched 6.0 points, 6.0 rebounds and 1.0 assist per appearance. Previously the forward had stints with Caceres, Valmiera, Perlas, Ferrara, Budivelnyk, Bremerhaven. He earned All-Latvian League Honourable Mention in 2010. Arturas Valeika got the taste of American basketball. He graduated from the Weber State University in 2008. The forward notched 9.9 points, 10.2 boards, 1.2 assists and 1.2 blocks per game in his senior season. Arturas Valeika made it into All-Big Sky Conference 1st Team in 2008.


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  LUXEMBOURG   


The door hasn't slammed shut for Scandinavian team - by Eurobasket News

Sweden-Luxembourg 111:74

Sweden improved to 2-2 record in Group B of the EuroBasket Qualification Round. The door to EuroBasket 2013 hasn't slammed shut for Sweden after 111:74 win over Luxembourg.
Sweden easily took 27:13 after the first period and added 28-24 in the second frame. The Scandinavian team did not slow down in the second half and produced also two victories. They came up with 31-16 in the third period and finished the game with 25-21 in the lasts stanza. Person made two free throws for 104:70, while Alexander Lindqvist (203-F-91) and Rush made it 108:72. Anton Saks (200-SF-89) nailed three for the final result in the game.
Anton Saks stepped up with 16 points for the winners and Christian Maraker (206-PF-82, college: Pacific) as well as Jonas Jerebko (206-PF-87) had 14 each. Kenny Grant (188-G-82, college: Davidson) and Alexander Lindqvist followed them with 13 points apiece. Christopher Jones (186-G-90) replied with 17 points in the losing effort and Samy Picard (196-PF-88) delivered 14. Martin Rajniak (205-PF-78, college: CSU Bakersfield) netted 11 and Tom Schumacher (189-PG-87, college: Cal.Baptist) posted 10.

Sweden: Anton Saks 16, Christian Maraker 14, Jonas Jerebko 14, Kenny Grant 13, Alexander Lindqvist 13
Luxembourg: Christopher Jones 17, Samy Picard 14, Martin Rajniak 11, Tom Schumacher 10


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  MONTENEGRO   


Stockholm Eagles sign two Montenegrin players - by Eurobasket News (T)

Stockholm Eagles landed brothers Marko Ljujic (205-C-90) and Nikola Ljujic (202-F-91) for the upcoming season.
Center Marko Ljujic heads to Stockholm from Teodo Tivat, where he spent last season. The player averaged 4.7 points and 3.1 rebounds for 25 games in Montenegro. Before Teodo, Marko spent one year with Jedinstvo Bijelo Polje and two with Buducnost Podgorica. In the past, he also played for Lovcen Cetinje. Marko was a member of U20 and U18 Montenegrin National Teams from 2007 to 2010.
Nikola Ljujic had 13.9 ppg and 4.4 rpg for 19 games with Jedinstvo Bijelo Polje last season. From 2009 to 2011 he played for Mornar Bar. Nikola was a member of U20 Montenegrin NT in 2010 and 2011. In 2009, he helped U18 Montenegro to win the bronze medal at U18 EuroBasket Division B in Sarajevo. He shined with 14.1 ppg and 5.1 rpg for 8 games at this event and was named to Eurobasket.com All-European Championships U18 Division B 2nd Team.
Stockholm Eagles are Basketligan newcomers.


Enel Brindisi brings in Stevan Milosevic for the training camp - by Eurobasket News (T)

Enel Brindisi brought in Stevan Milosevic (211-C-85, agency: Interperformances) for the training camp. The Montenegrin center finished last season with Georgian team Sokhumi Tbilisi. He joined them in March averaging 13.2 points and 8.4 rebounds for 5 Superleague games. They reached Playoff Semifinals. Before Sokhumi, Milosevic spent some time with Mornar Bar. There he had 7.5 ppg and 6.8 rpg in 4 Montenegrin league games. The player also added 7.3 ppg and 5.7 rpg for 3 appearances in Balkan League. Stevan Milosevic started last season with Turkish Trabzon. With them he had 4.8 ppg and 1.2 rpg for 5 games, after what they parted ways. In 2010/11 Milosevic played one month for Nizhny Novgorod and after that he finished the season with Cypriot AEL Limassol. In the past, he played for Dijon, Partizan, Koln 99ers and Crvena Zvezda. Stevan Milosevic is a product of Buducnost Podgorica.


Montenegro keep the perfect 5-0 record in Group A - by Eurobasket News

Slovakia-Montenegro 81:94

Montenegro keep the perfect 5-0 record in Group A of the EuroBasket Qualification Round. The team overcame Slovakia 94:81 in the start of the 5th Day. The latter fell at 0-5 record after the loss in Levice.
Montenegro took 23:20 lead at the halftime. Moreover the guests added massive 24-12 in the second period and enjoyed 47:32 after Blagota Sekulic (209-C-82, agency: FCM)s shot. Slovakia meanwhile produced 24-23 in the third quarter and actually came up with another narrow win in the last stanza. Anton Gavel (188-PG-84, agency: Pro One Sports) reduced to minimum 79:76 but Montenegro needed a final pushed for the final success.
Suad Sehovic (196-G/F-87) top-scored for the winners with 16 points and Milko Bjelica (205-F/C-84, agency: Beo Basket) nailed 15. Blagota Sekulic posted 14, while Bojan Dubljevic (205-PF-91, agency: Beo Basket) and Vladimir Dasic (208-PF-88, agency: Beo Basket) had 13 each. Anton Gavel replied with 23 points and 10 assists, while Dusan Pandula (197-SF-84) nailed 20. Michal Batka (204-PF-87) and Roman Vido (204-PF-88) delivered 10 points each in a loss.

Slovakia: Anton Gavel 23+10 ast, Dusan Pandula 20, Michal Batka 14, Roman Vido 10
Montenegro: Suad Sehovic 16, Milko Bjelica 15, Blagota Sekulic 14, Bojan Dubljevic 13+10 rebs, Vladimir Dasic 13


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  NBA   


Dirk Nowitzki willing to play two more years, at least - by Eurobasket News

Dirk Nowitzki (7'0''-F-78) was in a social mood Sunday afternoon on Twitter.

After tweeting to his followers that he had 20 minutes to take questions, @swish41 spent more than 90 minutes providing answers about a wide variety of topics.

Perhaps the most newsworthy response came when the Mavs' superstar was asked how many more years he'd play. His reply was "2 for sure and then see how I feel."


@dribblepasshoot: @swish41 Your game looks like it will age really well, how many more yrs you playing? 2 for sure and then see how I feel

Dirk Nowitzki (@swish41) August 26, 2012


Nowitzki has two years remaining on the four-year deal he signed with the Mavericks before the 2010-11 season.

If he continues his NBA career after his current contract, he indicated he wouldn't go chasing another ring. When asked if he'd jump ship for a super team, he replied, "I bleed blue."

Nowitzki was optimistic he'd be able to win another ring without leaving Dallas, however. When asked if the Mavs can win it all this year, he replied, "I always feel that way."

Among the other revelations from the newlywed:

* He wished Jason Terry well in Boston, calling him "fam for life," and said former teammates Steve Nash and Michael Finley are "My homeboys."

* He prefers red wine over beer, and dogs over cats.

* Charles Barkley is his favorite player from the 1992 Dream Team, and Kobe Bryant is the best player he's ever faced.

* His favorite TV show is "Eastbound & Down," and "Braveheart" is his favorite movie. His favorite bands are the Rolling Stones and Led Zeppelin.

* If he wasn't a basketball player he'd be a rock star or a painter.

Courtesy of ESPN


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  NCAA1   


MBB Cruises To 39-Point Win Over Rotterdam - by Eurobasket News

ROTTERDAM, Holland - The University of Colorado men's basketball team broke open a six-point first quarter lead into a 23-point cushion at halftime and cruised to a 96-57 victory over the Rotterdam Challengers, Monday night at the Topsportcentrum.

The Buffaloes dominated every facet of the game from a 55-29 advantage on the glass and forced Rotterdam into 25 turnovers. CU shot 47 percent from the field (41-of-87) to wrap up the five-game exhibition against semi-professional teams from France, Belgium and The Netherlands with a 2-3 record.

"I thought tonight was our best performance as a team; offensively, defensively, our bench played very well and I was really pleased with the way we played," said CU head coach Tad Boyle. "Individually, there were some great performances as well. The best thing from this trip is every player really improved; every player got a chance to play and get in the flow of real-live game situations against good competition. This trip is invaluable to our program this year."

CU recorded a five-game best 47 made field goals with four players in double figures led by freshman forward Josh Scott (6'10''-F) with 19 points (8-of-13) and five rebounds; junior forward Andre Roberson (6'7''-F-91) (18 points, 12 rebounds) and freshman forward Xavier Johnson (11 points, 10 rebounds) notched double-doubles; and senior guard Sabatino Chen poured in 11 points, six rebounds, six assists, and six steals.

Freshman forward Wesley Gordon chipped-in with eight points and six rebounds, while sophomore guard Askia Booker added nine points and five assists. Everyone played in the game for CU with 11 of 13 players scoring (Dinwiddie and Beau Gamble six points each; Xavier Talton four points and five rebounds; Ben Mills and Eli Stalzer two points each). Juniors Jeremy Adams (6'5''-G-90) and Shane Harris-Tunks (6'11''-F/C-90) did not play in any of the games as both are nursing injuries.

With a six-point first quarter lead (26-20) engineered by Scott's seven points and Chen's four assists, CU held the Challengers scoreless through the first 4:40 of the second quarter jumping out to a 34-20 lead before the home team scored their first basket.

CU then raced out to a 42-22 margin behind Scott's eight points, then three-point plays by Booker and Dinwiddie pushed their advantage to 57-34 at the break. Rotterdam was out-scored 31-14 in the second quarter, while CU also dominated the glass during the first 20 minutes by a 32-13 margin.

The third quarter was the same as the second as Chen scored six of CU's next 10 points for a 67-34 lead, while Rotterdam only mustered 10 points in the third quarter. CU's starters out-scored Rotterdam starters, 53-27.

The attendance for the game 374 was the largest crowd to see the Buffaloes in the five game exhibition schedule, and in fact, surpassed the previous four games combined.

Chip Jones led Rotterdam with nine points. Jones and three others each had five rebounds apiece.

CU closes its stay in Amsterdam on Tuesday with a tour of the Anne Frank House in the afternoon followed by a Canal Cruise and BBQ farewell dinner. Wednesday morning the Buffaloes depart Amsterdam en route to Chicago then Denver later that night.
Courtesy of: www.cubuffs.com


Obradoiro lands rookie William Buford - by Eurobasket News (T)

William Buford (198-G-90, agency: Interperformances) is set to start his professional basketball career. The American G/SF penned a 1-year deal with Spanish Liga Endesa team Obradoiro. Buford graduated at the Ohio State University few months ago. He had 14.5 ppg, 5 rpg and 2.7 assists for 39 games as a senior. The player helped Ohio State to reach NCAA Final Four. Buford was named to USBasket.com All-NCAA D1 3rd Team -12 and All-Big Ten 2nd Team-12. As junior and sophomore William Buford had almost the same numbers as last season. In 2011, he was also named to All-Big Ten 2nd Team. With Ohio State, Buford won Big Ten Tournament twice (2010 and 2011). They also reached NCAA Sweet 16 two times. In 2009, Buford was Big Ten Freshman of the Year.


Saint Louis' Majerus to take leave for season due to heart issue - by Eurobasket News

Saint Louis coach Rick Majerus won't coach this season due to heart issues.

A spokesman told CBSSports.com that the 64-year-old Majerus will sit out the 2012-13 campaign and will be replaced by interim coach Jim Crews.

"Rick is in a California hospital underoing evaluation and treatment for an ongoing heart condition," Saint Louis athletic director Chris May said in a statement. "His health is the most important issue right now, and our hope is for full and complete recovery."

The Billikens returned just about everyone except leading scorer Brian Conklin and are expected to compete for the A-10 title.

Majerus has a 517-215 career mark in his head coaching career, which has included stops at Marquette, Ball State and Utah, where he took the Utes to the national title game in 1998.

Saint Louis finished 26-8 last season and lost to Michigan State in the third round of the NCAA tournament.

Majerus accepted the USC job back in 2004, but then resigned days later due to health issues and worked as an analyst with ESPN from 2004 to 2007. He took over at Saint Louis in 2007, and two years ago missed time due to an infection in his leg. He was also unable to coach the team's trip to Canada a year ago when he had a stent inserted.

The school said it has not made a decision on the head-coaching position beyond the 2013-14 campaign, but this could well end Majerus' career.

Crews joined the Billikens prior to last season. He was the head coach at Army for seven seasons (2002-09) and played for Bob Knight at Indiana.

"Coach Majerus is not only a colleague, but a dear friend, so this is a difficult time," Crews said.

Courtesy of www.cbssports.com


Former UNO, Memphis player Carmouche joins LSU - by Eurobasket News (T)

LSU coach Johnny Jones says former University of New Orleans and Memphis guard Charles Carmouche (6'3''-G-90) has enrolled in LSU and will join the Tigers for the upcoming season.

The 6-foot-3 Carmouche played two seasons at New Orleans before transferring to Memphis, where he played the past two years.

However, he received a medical redshirt last season while completing his graduation requirements at Memphis, allowing him to transfer to another Division I program without sitting out a year.

Carmouche, who is from New Orleans, has played in 92 games in his college career with 75 starts. He has averaged 7.4 points, 3.3 rebounds and 1.7 assists.

Jones says Carmouche's ability to defend and his experience will make him an instant leader and a valuable addition to the Tigers.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com


UNLV junior Roscoe Smith will redshirt this season after his waiver was denied - by Eurobasket News

Junior transfer Roscoe Smith (6'8''-F-91) will redshirt this season after his legislative relief waiver request was denied by the NCAA, it was announced Friday.

Smith, a 6-foot-8, 205-pound forward who won a national championship at UConn in 2011, left that program after the Huskies were banned from postseason play this year because of a low Academic Progress Rate (APR) score. Because of those circumstances, student-athletes who wished to leave could submit a waiver in order to be exempt from the standard year on the bench thats required when a player transfers during their undergraduate years.

Smith and UNLV completed that waiver, but it was denied. The only UConn player who left and was granted immediate eligibility was Alex Oriakhi, who had just one year left and will play his senior season this year at Missouri.

We are disappointed for Roscoe and our team, but we understand and accept the decision, UNLV coach Dave Rice said in a statement. Roscoe brings tremendous experience from being a big part of a national championship team at UConn, and he is now a highly valued member of our program.

When discussing the waiting game he was playing before the teams recent trip to Canada, Smith said he wasnt at all antsy about the impending decision and would accept whatever happened. Smith will practice with the Rebels this season and be eligible to compete as a redshirt junior in 2013-14.

Without Smith in the rotation, theres more room for a guy like Savon Goodman, who was the most impressive freshman over the four exhibition games in Ottawa and Montreal. Goodman, a 6-6, 210-pound forward, was very aggressive in the paint and, after a rough first game, showed an ability to continue to learn from his mistakes and improve within the flow of the offense.

As a sophomore at UConn, Smith averaged 4.4 points and 3.4 rebounds in just more than 18 minutes per game. As a freshman, he started in the national championship game against Butler, tying a career high with four blocks.

The move sets UNLV up well in the coming years. The Rebels are treating this as junior forward Mike Mosers senior year hes all but guaranteed to leave for the NBA draft in June and Smith could slide into that vacated spot with two years of eligibility remaining.

(Smith) will have a great career here at UNLV and has already become a terrific leader for us, Rice said.

Courtesy of www.lasvegassun.com


CU Men's BB Falls In Final Seconds, 88-86 - by Eurobasket News

ANTWERP, Belgium - Trailing by 10 points with under two minutes to play, the University of Colorado men's basketball team almost pulled off a stunning come-from-behind win - from its underclassmen, only to fall in the final seconds to Gembo BBC Borgerhout, 88-86, Sunday afternoon at the Sporthal Luisbekelaar.
The Buffaloes played the entire game without last year starters and reserves Askia Booker (185-G-93), Sabatino Chen, Spencer Dinwiddie, and Andre Roberson. CU countered the entire game on Sunday with all six freshmen, first-year transfer players, and their returning reserves from a year ago. Most of CU's firepower that generated 56.2 percent scoring and 70.5 percent of rebounding a year ago, did not play.

CU started the game with forwards Wesley Gordon and Xavier Johnson; guards Xavier Talton (185-G), Eli Stalzer and Chris Jenkins (201-F), with forwards Josh Scott and Xavier Johnson coming off the bench. Junior forward Ben Mills, junior transfer guard Kevin Nelson and sophomore transfer guard Beau Gamble also saw minutes.

Scott led all scorers with 24 points with six rebounds and a blocked shot.

"We added a fifth game on this trip trying to get some guys as many minutes, and as much as a flow of the game in a normal situation, to give them that experience," said CU head coach Tad Boyle .

"It gave us a great-look-into our freshmen class that are not normally in the rotation and getting them some minutes, so I thought the way we competed and lose by two to a very quality team that I think is better than the team we beat last night (Sat., Aug. 18), it gives us a lot of things to build on. The thing about this trip, is you want to learn as much as you can about your young players and we had a chance to do that today."

The Buffaloes were playing their second game in less than 24 hours were also led by Jenkins with 17 points and eight rebounds; Stalzer scored 10 points with six steals; and Gordon chipped-in with seven rebounds, six points, two steals and two blocks. Johnson added 11 points.

Trailing 74-66 with 1:47 to play, Gembo BBC made back-to-back treys for what seemed a commanding 84-74 lead. However, Scott scored the next bucket with a power move in the paint, then Nelson added four points inching CU closer and an 86-83 deficit with 16.6 seconds to play.

With no timeouts, CU managed to force the home team into a turnover where Jenkins subsequently missed a three-pointer to tie the game. Gembo BBC added a pair of free throws for an 88-83 lead and Stalzer closed the gap with a three-pointer at the buzzer.

Gembo BBC Borgerhout, whose average age is 28, was the Belgian Division II 2011-2012 champion, returned 10 players from its title team a year ago. They were led by Domien Loubry with 22 points and six three-pointers.

Four CU players, Talton, Scott, Gordon, Johnson, all fouled out one-by-one in the fourth quarter.

CU shot 45.9 percent from the field (28-of-61) and committed 29 turnovers. Gembo BBC shot 49.2 percent for the game (29-of-59) and committed 23 miscues.
Courtesy of: www.cubuffs.com


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  NCAA2   


Lan Mobel adds Lance Kearse, completes roster for 2012/13 - by Eurobasket News (T)

Lance Kearse (198-F) is set to start his professional basketball career. The American forward penned a 1-year deal with Iraurgi Saski Baloia Lan Mobel. The will compete in Spanish third division for men - LEB Silver. Kearse is a product of Eckerd College (NCAA2), where he graduated few months ago. He had 16.2 ppg and 6 rpg for the school in 30 games as a senior. He helped Eckerd to reach SSC Tournament Semifinals and they did the same in 2010 as well. The player was named to All-SSC 1st Team -12. He was also awarded with NABC Division II All-South Region 1st Team -12 and participated at the NABC Division II All-Star Game -12. Lance Kearse transferred to Eckerd in 2009 from the Virginia Commonwealth University (NCAA1). With VCU he won CAA Tournament three years ago. He had 4.5 ppg and 1.8 rpg for 11 games that season.


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  POLAND   


Start Gdynia signs Jaroslaw Mokros, keeps Aleksander Krauze - by Eurobasket News (T)

PLK newcomer Start Gdynia announced signing of Jaroslaw Mokros (201-F-90) for the upcoming season. The team also extended deal with Aleksander Krauze (188-G-89).
Jaroslaw Mokros arrives to Start Gdynia from AZS Politechnika Warszawam where he spent last two seasons. In the latest one he appeared in 35 PLK games averaging 7.8 points and 4.2 rebounds. In 2010/11, the player collected 9.6 ppg and 4.4 rpg for 35 games. He helped Politechnika to win 1Liga title that year. In the past Mokrow played for Polonia 2011 Warszawa, but he also played for Politechnika in 2Liga and 1Liga. From 2006 to 2010, Mokros won four bronze medals with U18 and U20 Poland at U18 and U20 European Championships Division B.
Aleksander Krauze won 1Liga title with Start last season. He had 7.8 ppg and 1.7 spg for 12 games.


Asseco Prokom signs Australian Julian Khazzouh - by Eurobasket News (T)

Asseco Prokom signs Julian Khazzouh (209-C-86) for the next three seasons. The Australian player will come from Sydney. In 2011-2012 for Sydney Kings (NBL, starting five) he averaged 16.4ppg, Reb-1 (10.8rpg), 1.7apg, Blocks-1 (2.1bpg), FGP: 48.5%, 3PT: 8.0%, FT: 68.0%.
In 2008-2009 he played for Sydney Spirit (NBL, starting five) and showed 15.2ppg, Reb-5 (10.8ppg), 1.2apg, 1.3spg, Blocks-1 (1.9bpg), FGP: 47.9%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 56.4%. In Dec.'08 moved to Hanzevast Capitals Groningen (Holland-Eredivisie, starting five) and after 28 games had: 11.5ppg, 7.9rpg, 1.3spg, Blocks-2 (1.5bpg), FGP-3 (64.1%), 3PT: 38.7%, FT: 56.5%.
The season 2009-2010 Julian Khazzouh appeared for Ironi Kfar Hamaccabia Ramat Gan (Israel-Premier League, starting five) and showed 10.8ppg, 6.3rpg, 1.0spg, Blocks-4 (1.3bpg), FGP: 61.2%, 3PT: 30.0%, FT: 78.7%. In 2010-2011 moved to Sydney Kings (NBL, starting five) and became the fourth top-scorer of the league with17.4ppg, Reb-1 (10.0rpg), 1.7apg, 1.0spg, Blocks-2 (1.8bpg), FGP: 55.7%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 79.1%.
During his time with the Warriors, Khazzouh played in one pre-season game against the Sacramento Kings where he scored two points in limited minutes. In NBL games so far this season Khazzouh is a clear MVP favourite, leading the league in both rebounds (11 per game) and blocks (2.1 per game) and second in scoring (18.6 points per game) over the first 13 games of the season.


A round of sparing games started in Poland - by Maciej Paszyn

In the last weekend the part of teams of the Polish extra league teams played first pre-seasons control games. In general opponents were local rivals from lower leagues.

Anwil Wloclawek beat 1 Liga team Polski Cukier SIDEn Torun 76:66. In the team from Wloclawek most effective player was Marcus Ginyard (196-G/F-87, agency: Interperformances, college: N.Carolina) with scored 21 points.

Trefl Sopot playing without Adam Waczynski (199-G/F-89, agency: Limelight Hoops) and Przemyslaw Zamojski (194-SG-86, agency: Alti Sport, college: Independence CC) defeated another 1 Liga team AZS Kutno 77:57. Great in the debut was Michal Michalak (194-SG-93, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) which turned out to be the high-scoring player of the game with 18 points scored.

SKS Polpharma-Pakmet Starogard Gd. crushed 2 liga team Wybrzeze Korsarz Gdansk 103:80. The team from seaside was led to victory by duet of foreign players: Ben McCauley (206-F/C-86, college: N.Carolina St.) (23 points) and Uros Mirkovic (205-F/C-82, agency: BeoExcell) (21 points)

In the only sparring among two extra league teams Siarka Jezioro Tarnobrzeg beat newcomer KS Rosasport Radom 95:88. In the team from Tarnobrzeg most effective players were Xavier Alexander (198-G-88, college: S.Nazarene) and Maurice Pearson (205-F/C, college: Georgetown, KY) with scored 21 points. Pearson stays in the team on try-outs and didn't sign a contract yet. In the defeated team top scorer was Slavisa Bogavac (200-G/F-80, agency: BeoExcell) with 15 points.


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  PORTUGAL   


Belarus open win count in EuroBasket Qualification - by Eurobasket News

Portugal - Belarus 75:82

Belarus clinched the initial win at 2013 EuroBasket Qualifying Round. They upset Portugal on the road to improve at 1-3 record in Group F. Portugal remained winless at 0-4. Artsiom Parakhouski (210-C-87, college: Radford) came up with 19 points to lead the visitors.
Belarus started the game strong. They got away at 13-point distance after ten minutes 28:15. Portugal however stopped the rot in the second quarter. The hosts narrowed the deficit at just 7-point mark at halftime 37:44. Artsiom Parakhouski quickly restored an 11-point lead for the visitors in the third quarter. However Portugal almost denied it getting within just one 57:58 at the final intermission. Aliaksandr Pustahvar (203-SF-85, agency: RU-Basket Management) and Stiggers gave Belarus a 67:57 lead early in the final stanza. The hosts did not surrender and trimmed the deficit at just five-point mark with under two minutes remaining. Aliaksandr Pustahvar accounted for key four points in the dying seconds to seal the victory for Belarus. Aliaksandr Pustahvar delivered 13 points, while Aliaksei Trastsinetski (200-SF-86) added 10 points for the winners. Mario Fernandes (174-PG-82) answered with 19 points for Portugal. Claudio Fonseca (206-C-89) netted 15 points in the loss.

Portugal: Mario Fernandes 19, Claudio Fonseca 15
Belarus: Artsiom Parakhouski 19, Aliaksandr Pustahvar 13, Aliaksei Trastsinetski 10


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  PUERTO RICO   


Huracanes del Atlantico sign deal with David Cortes - by Eurobasket News (T)

Huracanes del Atlantico reinforced their roster for rest of the season. The Dominican Republic squad penned a deal with American guard David Cortes (190-G/F-81). He arrives to Huracanes from the Puerto Rican team Capitanes de Arecibo. Cortes appeared 49 times with them in 2012 BSN season averaging 9.7 points and 2.7 rebounds. The player also added 11.7 ppg and 2.3 rpg for 6 games in Liga Americas. In the past David Cortes won three BSN titles with Arecibo (08, 10, 11). In 2011/12 season the player won Mexican LNBP title with Halcones Rojos de Veracruz. There he had 9.2 ppg and 2.2 rpg in 44 games. David Cortes played for the Puerto Rican National Team two years ago. They won gold medals and CentroBasket in Santo Domingo and also at Central American and Caribbean Games in Mayaguez.


Sodertalje Kings bring in G Carlos Strong for tryout - by Eurobasket News (T)

Sodertalje Kings brought in Puerto Rican/American guard Carlos Strong (191-G-87, college: Boston U.) for tryout. The player will spent next three weeks in Sodertalje and will try to get the contract. Strong played in Puerto Rico earlier this year. He had 10.3 ppg, 3.2 rpg and 1.6 apg for 39 BSN games with Atleticos San German. They were BSN regular season champions and later reached Playoff Semifinals. Strong played for San German in 2011 and 2010 as well. In his first season as a pro the player had 5.4 ppg and 2.5 rpg for 19 games. Carlos Strong graduated at Boston University two years ago. He had 10.9 ppg and 4.6 rpg for his school in 35 games as a senior. Boston reached AEC Tournament Finals and Strong was named to AEC All-Defensive Team. Last summer he played for the Puerto Rican National Team at Panamerican Games in Guadalajara. Strong had 3.4 ppg for 5 games helping Puerto Rico to win the gold medal.


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  ROMANIA   


Latvia cruise past Romania - by Eurobasket News

Latvia - Romania 89:53

Latvia celebrated the second win in 2013 EuroBasket qualification. They stormed past Romania in Riga. Latvia thus improved at 2-2 record in Group D. Romania slipped at 1-3 record after the loss. Rihards Kuksiks (197-SF-88, college: Arizona St.) stepped up with 19 points for the winners.
Latvia earned a 7-point lead after ten minutes of action. Latvia boosted the lead in the second quarter. The hosts unleashed 28 points in the period to establish a 49:29 halftime lead. Latvia kept Romania at bay throughout the third term. They held Romania to just 10 points in the frame taking a 31-point advantage before the final stanza. The visitors never recovered as Latvia coasted to the victory in the final frame. Edgars Jeromanovs (190-PG-86) accounted for 16 points, while Dairis Bertans (192-SG-89) added 13 points in the victory. Andrei Mandache (191-G/F-87, agency: Global Sports Plaza) replied with 14 points for Romania. Vlad Moldoveanu (209-F-88, college: American) had 11 points in the loss.

Latvia: Rihards Kuksiks 19, Edgars Jeromanovs 16, Dairis Bertans 13
Romania: Andrei Mandache 14, Vlad Moldoveanu 11


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  RUSSIA   


Chris Monroe heads to URAL Ekaterinburg - by Eurobasket News (T)

Chris Monroe (191-G-81, college: G.Washington) heads to URAL Ekaterinburg for the next season. The player moves to Russia from Italy.
The season 2011-2012 he started for CEZ Basketball Nymburk (Czech Rep.-NBL, starting five), only pre-season, but in in Nov.'11 moved to Budivelnyk Kyiv (Ukraine-Superleague, starting five). In Ukrainian League he showed 8.7ppg, 1.9rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 59.1%, 3PT: 41.2%, FT: 70.0%. Later Khimik tab Chris Monroe (191-G-81, college: G.Washington) as the latter remained in Ukraine.
Chris Monroe started the earlier season with Enel Brindisi. The player averaged 5.3 points, 2.7 rebounds and 1.3 steals per game in Seria A. However Chris Monroe suffered a serious injury and had to sit out the bigger part of the season. He joined Nymburk in the pre-season this summer but never inked a deal. Previously Chris Monroe had stints in Belgium, Austria, USBL, Hungary, Italy, France and Greece. Eurobasket.com named the guard All-Hungarian League Player of the Year in 2006.


Spartak ease past Kouvot in test game - by Eurobasket News

Spartak Saint Petersburg claimed the first success in the pre-season action. They travelled to Finland and took on local Koouvot. The Russian team proved the strength winning 102:65. Josh Carter (201-F/G-88, college: Texas A&M) accounted for 19 points, 6 assists and 5 boards for the winners.
Spartak gained a 27:14 lead after ten minutes. They stretched the gap at 23-point mark at halftime 56:33. Spartak stayed dominant in the second half. They ensured a 27-point lead before the final stanza. The visitors outscored Kouvot 22:12 in the final frame to seal the victory at the end. Fedor Dmitriev (205-F-84, agency: Alti Sport), Pavel Ilmenkov (188-G-89, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav) and Vasili Zavoruev (197-G-87, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav) provided 14 points each for Spartak. Nikita Kurbanov (202-F-86) finished with 12 points in the victory.
Spartak Saint Petersburg is scheduled to take on Pyrinto Tampere on Tuesday.


Enisey tab Hasan Rizvic - by Eurobasket News (T)

Enisey bolstered their frontcourt. They agreed on terms of contract with Hasan Rizvic (212-C-84). The deal is meant for one season. The Slovenian centre is expected to join the Krasnoyarsk team soon. The Slovenian centre is expected to join the Krasnoyarsk team soon. Hasan Rizvic started the previous season in Ukraine. He played for Azovmash Mariupol. He tallied 8.3 points, 5.5 boards, 1.5 blocks and 1.1 steals per game in Superleague. In VTB League the centre notched 10.0 points, 5.7 rebounds, 1.7 blocks and 1.3 steals per appearance. In EuroCup Hasan Rizvic posted 7.8 points, 6.4 rebounds and 1.3 blocks. Later Hasan Rizvic moved to Buducnost Podgorica. He accounted for 4.9 points and 2.7 rebounds per game in Adriatic League. In EuroCup the centre banked 3.6 points and 2.4 boards per appearance. Previously Hasan Rizvic had stints in Russia, Ukraine, Slovenia, Poland and Bosnia. He was named All-VTB League Centre of the Year in 2010.


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  SENEGAL   


Senegal wins the title at U18 AfroBasket in Maputo - by Eurobasket News

Senegal is the gold medal will in Maputo. They outplayed Ivory Coast in U18 AfroBasket title game 71-62. The game was played on Saturday at the Academica Stadium. It is important to mention that both teams will compete at FIBA U19 World Championship next summer. Czech Republic will be the host of this event.
Senegal registered 7-1 record in Maputo. They finished Preliminary Round with 4-1 and their only loss came against the former champions Egypt. It was enough for the second place in Group B. In the Quarterfinals, Senegal eliminated host Mozambique 62-37. In the Semis, Senegal was better than Mali 63-47.
This is the first ever gold medal for Senegal at U18 AfroBasket.


U18 AfroBasket in Maputo - FINAL RANKING

1. Senegal
2. Ivory Coast
3. Egypt
4. Mali
5. Angola
6. Tunisia
7. Mozambique
8. Ghana
9. Morocco
10. Gabon
11. Rwanda


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  SERBIA   


Crvena Zvezda inks 2-year deal with Rasko Katic - by Eurobasket News (T)

As expected, Rasko Katic (208-C-80, agency: Beo Basket) became a new member of Crvena Zvezda. The center penned a 2-year deal. Katic spent last two seasons with Partizan Belgrade. They won two Serbian league and Cup trophies together. Katic also won Adriatic league title with Partizan a year ago. The player was named 'Eurobasket.com All-Serbian League Center of the Year in 2011'. That season Katic averaged 9.6 points and 4.7 rebounds for 20 Serbian league games. He also added 6.9 ppg and 4.2 rpg for 16 Euroleague appearances. In Adriatic league 2010/11 Rasko Katic registered 8.9 ppg and 4.1 rpg for 28 games. Last season, the player had slightly lower numbers in all competitions. Before Partizan, Rasko Katic played one year for Hemofarm. From 2005 to 2009, he was a member of the German team Walter Tigers Tuebingen and he participated at the All-Star Game in 2008. In 2007, Katic was named Eurobasket.com All-German Bundesliga Bosman Player of the Year. The player already spent some time with Crvena Zvezda and it was in 2004/05 season.
Crvena Zvezda already made few big signings earlier this summer. Before Rasko Katic, they landed Americans Elton Brown (206-C-83, college: Virginia) and Morris Almond (198-F/G-85, college: Rice). The team also returned former Euroleague scoring champion Igor Rakocevic (193-G-78). Boris Savovic (206-F-87, agency: Beo Basket) moved from Galatasaray to Crvena Zvezda and Marko Simonovic (202-F-86, agency: Beo Basket) arrived from ALBA Berlin. The main target for Crvena Zvezda for the next season will be to dethrone Partizan and to win the championship title in Serbia.


Boras signs Serbian guard Momcilo Latinovic - by Eurobasket News (T)

Boras reinforced its roster for the upcoming season. The team signed a 1-year deal with Serbian guard Momcilo Latinovic (198-G). They will compete in Swedish top division for men - Basketligan. Latinovic heads to Sweden for his first professional season. The player graduated at New Mexico Highlands University (NCAA2) few months ago. He had 14.5 ppg and 3.5 rpg for his school in 24 games as a senior. Latinovic was named to All-RMAC 2nd Team -12. As a junior, the player had 11.1 ppg and 5 rpg for 26 appearances. Momcilo Latinovic transferred to New Mexico Highlands two years ago from the Northern State University (NCAA2). There he had 3.2 ppg and 1.4 rpg for 26 games. He started American adventure with Blendale Community College (JUCO) in 2008/09. In the past, Latinovic played for Beovuk 72 juniors.


Crvena Zvezda close to sign C Rasko Katic - by Eurobasket News

Rasko Katic (208-C-80, agency: Beo Basket) could become a new member of Crvena Zvezda soon. Two sides are already in advanced talks and the big guy is expected sign a 2-year deal. Katic spent last two seasons with Partizan Belgrade. They won two Serbian league and Cup trophies together. Katic also won Adriatic league title with Partizan a year ago. The player was named Eurobasket.com All-Serbian League Center of the Year in 2011. That season Katic averaged 9.6 points and 4.7 rebounds for 20 Serbian league games. He also added 6.9 ppg and 4.2 rpg for 16 Euroleague appearances. In Adriatic league 2010/11 Rasko Katic registered 8.9 ppg and 4.1 rpg for 28 games. Last season, the player had slightly lower numbers in all competitions. Before Partizan, Rasko Katic played one year for Hemofarm. From 2005 to 2009, he was a member of the German team Walter Tigers Tuebingen and he participated at the All-Star Game in 2008. In 2007, Katic was named Eurobasket.com All-German Bundesliga Bosman Player of the Year. The player already spent some time with Crvena Zvezda and it was in 2004/05 season.


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  SLOVAKIA   


Montenegro keep the perfect 5-0 record in Group A - by Eurobasket News

Slovakia-Montenegro 81:94

Montenegro keep the perfect 5-0 record in Group A of the EuroBasket Qualification Round. The team overcame Slovakia 94:81 in the start of the 5th Day. The latter fell at 0-5 record after the loss in Levice.
Montenegro took 23:20 lead at the halftime. Moreover the guests added massive 24-12 in the second period and enjoyed 47:32 after Blagota Sekulic (209-C-82, agency: FCM)s shot. Slovakia meanwhile produced 24-23 in the third quarter and actually came up with another narrow win in the last stanza. Anton Gavel (188-PG-84, agency: Pro One Sports) reduced to minimum 79:76 but Montenegro needed a final pushed for the final success.
Suad Sehovic (196-G/F-87) top-scored for the winners with 16 points and Milko Bjelica (205-F/C-84, agency: Beo Basket) nailed 15. Blagota Sekulic posted 14, while Bojan Dubljevic (205-PF-91, agency: Beo Basket) and Vladimir Dasic (208-PF-88, agency: Beo Basket) had 13 each. Anton Gavel replied with 23 points and 10 assists, while Dusan Pandula (197-SF-84) nailed 20. Michal Batka (204-PF-87) and Roman Vido (204-PF-88) delivered 10 points each in a loss.

Slovakia: Anton Gavel 23+10 ast, Dusan Pandula 20, Michal Batka 14, Roman Vido 10
Montenegro: Suad Sehovic 16, Milko Bjelica 15, Blagota Sekulic 14, Bojan Dubljevic 13+10 rebs, Vladimir Dasic 13


Svit land Jontae Sherrod - by Eurobasket News (T)

Svit bolstered their backcourt. They agreed on terms of contract with Jontae Sherrod (187-G-89, agency: Interperformances, college: E.Carolina). The deal is meant for the next season. Jontae Sherrod started his pro career last season. He joined Apoel Nicosia in Cyprus. Jontae Sherrod played just one game scoring 9 points before leaving. The guard participated at Eurobasket Summer League in Charlotte this summer. Jontae Sherrod notched 14.2 points, 3.8 rebounds and 3.6 assists per game for Team Solna. He earned Summer League in Charlotte Honourable Mention. The guard graduated from East Carolina University in 2011. His stats read 15.6 points, 3.6 rebounds, 1.9 assists and 1.1 steals per game in his senior season. Jontae Sherrod made it onto All-C-USA 3rd Team in 2011.


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  SPAIN   


Carlos Cherry is a newcomer at Quimper UJAP - by Eurobasket News (T)

Quimper UJAP (NM1) added to their roster 33-year old Spanish point guard Carlos Cherry (184-79, agency: Global Sports Plaza). He played most recently at Caceres Basket in Spanish LEB Gold. While playing 44 games for Caceres last season Cherry averaged 8.4ppg, 1.7rpg and 2.6apg. He helped them to make it to the semifinals. Cherry is a very experienced player.

By Eurobasket Data Center


Lan Mobel adds Lance Kearse, completes roster for 2012/13 - by Eurobasket News (T)

Lance Kearse (198-F) is set to start his professional basketball career. The American forward penned a 1-year deal with Iraurgi Saski Baloia Lan Mobel. The will compete in Spanish third division for men - LEB Silver. Kearse is a product of Eckerd College (NCAA2), where he graduated few months ago. He had 16.2 ppg and 6 rpg for the school in 30 games as a senior. He helped Eckerd to reach SSC Tournament Semifinals and they did the same in 2010 as well. The player was named to All-SSC 1st Team -12. He was also awarded with NABC Division II All-South Region 1st Team -12 and participated at the NABC Division II All-Star Game -12. Lance Kearse transferred to Eckerd in 2009 from the Virginia Commonwealth University (NCAA1). With VCU he won CAA Tournament three years ago. He had 4.5 ppg and 1.8 rpg for 11 games that season.


Manresa sends Pierre Oriola on loan to Lleida - by Eurobasket News (T)

Forca Lleida got another player for the upcoming season. Pierre Oriola (206-F/C-92, agency: Regeneracom Sports) joins the club on 1-year loan from Assignia Manresa. The player appeared in 28 Liga Endesa games last season, but he had very limited playing time. He averaged just 1.1 point. In 2010/11 season Oriola played 18 games in ACB. He also played for EBA team CE Sant Nicolau Sabadell collecting 7.6 ppg and 3.4 rpg in 14 games. Pierre Oriola is born in Lleida in 1992, so he returns home at least for one year. This summer the PF/C played for Spanish U20 National Team at U20 EuroBasket in Slovenia. He had 3.3 ppg and 3.5 rpg for 6 games at this event. Two years ago, he was a member of U18 Spain. Oriola averaged 6.3 points and 5 rebounds for 8 games at U18 EuroBasket in Villnius. He also participated at Albert Schweitzer International Tournament in Mannheim (Unofficial World Championships U18) that year.


Lagun Aro GBC gets Dani Diez on loan from Real Madrid - by Eurobasket News (T)

Daniel Diez (203-F-93) will play next season in Lagun Aro GBC. The young forward is sent on loan by Real Madrid. He played last season for Real Madrid II averaging 16.9 points and 5.4 rebounds for 19 games in EBA. The player also appeared twice in Liga Endesa. Daniel Diez shined this summer at U20 EuroBasket in Slovenia. He had 13.5 ppg and 3.7 rpg for 6 games at this event. Diez was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-European Championships U20 Best Forward -12 and he was named to Eurobasket.com All-European Championships U20 1st Team -12. A year ago he won the gold medal with U18 Spain at U18 EuroBasket in Wroclaw. There he had 12.2 ppg and 10.4 rpg for 9 games. Diez was named to Eurobasket.com All-European Championships U18 1st Team -11. In the past he also won the gold medal with U16 Spain at U16 EuroBasket in Kaunas (2009).


Obradoiro lands rookie William Buford - by Eurobasket News (T)

William Buford (198-G-90, agency: Interperformances) is set to start his professional basketball career. The American G/SF penned a 1-year deal with Spanish Liga Endesa team Obradoiro. Buford graduated at the Ohio State University few months ago. He had 14.5 ppg, 5 rpg and 2.7 assists for 39 games as a senior. The player helped Ohio State to reach NCAA Final Four. Buford was named to USBasket.com All-NCAA D1 3rd Team -12 and All-Big Ten 2nd Team-12. As junior and sophomore William Buford had almost the same numbers as last season. In 2011, he was also named to All-Big Ten 2nd Team. With Ohio State, Buford won Big Ten Tournament twice (2010 and 2011). They also reached NCAA Sweet 16 two times. In 2009, Buford was Big Ten Freshman of the Year.


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  SWEDEN   


The door hasn't slammed shut for Scandinavian team - by Eurobasket News

Sweden-Luxembourg 111:74

Sweden improved to 2-2 record in Group B of the EuroBasket Qualification Round. The door to EuroBasket 2013 hasn't slammed shut for Sweden after 111:74 win over Luxembourg.
Sweden easily took 27:13 after the first period and added 28-24 in the second frame. The Scandinavian team did not slow down in the second half and produced also two victories. They came up with 31-16 in the third period and finished the game with 25-21 in the lasts stanza. Person made two free throws for 104:70, while Alexander Lindqvist (203-F-91) and Rush made it 108:72. Anton Saks (200-SF-89) nailed three for the final result in the game.
Anton Saks stepped up with 16 points for the winners and Christian Maraker (206-PF-82, college: Pacific) as well as Jonas Jerebko (206-PF-87) had 14 each. Kenny Grant (188-G-82, college: Davidson) and Alexander Lindqvist followed them with 13 points apiece. Christopher Jones (186-G-90) replied with 17 points in the losing effort and Samy Picard (196-PF-88) delivered 14. Martin Rajniak (205-PF-78, college: CSU Bakersfield) netted 11 and Tom Schumacher (189-PG-87, college: Cal.Baptist) posted 10.

Sweden: Anton Saks 16, Christian Maraker 14, Jonas Jerebko 14, Kenny Grant 13, Alexander Lindqvist 13
Luxembourg: Christopher Jones 17, Samy Picard 14, Martin Rajniak 11, Tom Schumacher 10


Boras signs Serbian guard Momcilo Latinovic - by Eurobasket News (T)

Boras reinforced its roster for the upcoming season. The team signed a 1-year deal with Serbian guard Momcilo Latinovic (198-G). They will compete in Swedish top division for men - Basketligan. Latinovic heads to Sweden for his first professional season. The player graduated at New Mexico Highlands University (NCAA2) few months ago. He had 14.5 ppg and 3.5 rpg for his school in 24 games as a senior. Latinovic was named to All-RMAC 2nd Team -12. As a junior, the player had 11.1 ppg and 5 rpg for 26 appearances. Momcilo Latinovic transferred to New Mexico Highlands two years ago from the Northern State University (NCAA2). There he had 3.2 ppg and 1.4 rpg for 26 games. He started American adventure with Blendale Community College (JUCO) in 2008/09. In the past, Latinovic played for Beovuk 72 juniors.


Omar Krayem on tryout with Stockholm Eagles - by Eurobasket News (T)

Stockholm Eagles are very active on the transfer market these days. The latest news coming from the Basketligan newcomers says that Omar Krayem (185-G-86, college: Cal.Baptist) arrives for 3-day tryout. It is expected that he will get a deal and stay with the club for the next season. Krayem is not a new face in Sweden as he spent 2011/12 with Boras Basket. He helped them reach Basketligan Semifinals and was named Eurobasket.com All-Swedish Basketligan Guard of the Year -12. The player shined with 18.6 ppg, 6.1 apg, 4.4 rpg and 2 spg in 45 games. In 2010/11 season Omar Krayem was Player of the Year in BasketEttan. He exploded with 27.2 ppg, 6.4 apg, 4.8 spg and 4.5 rpg for 19 games with KSF Srbija Malmo. It was his first season as a pro.
As mentioned above, Omar Krayem is expected to stay with Stochholm Eagles for the next season. The tryout should be just the formality.


Sodertalje Kings bring in G Carlos Strong for tryout - by Eurobasket News (T)

Sodertalje Kings brought in Puerto Rican/American guard Carlos Strong (191-G-87, college: Boston U.) for tryout. The player will spent next three weeks in Sodertalje and will try to get the contract. Strong played in Puerto Rico earlier this year. He had 10.3 ppg, 3.2 rpg and 1.6 apg for 39 BSN games with Atleticos San German. They were BSN regular season champions and later reached Playoff Semifinals. Strong played for San German in 2011 and 2010 as well. In his first season as a pro the player had 5.4 ppg and 2.5 rpg for 19 games. Carlos Strong graduated at Boston University two years ago. He had 10.9 ppg and 4.6 rpg for his school in 35 games as a senior. Boston reached AEC Tournament Finals and Strong was named to AEC All-Defensive Team. Last summer he played for the Puerto Rican National Team at Panamerican Games in Guadalajara. Strong had 3.4 ppg for 5 games helping Puerto Rico to win the gold medal.


Stockholm Eagles sign two Montenegrin players - by Eurobasket News (T)

Stockholm Eagles landed brothers Marko Ljujic (205-C-90) and Nikola Ljujic (202-F-91) for the upcoming season.
Center Marko Ljujic heads to Stockholm from Teodo Tivat, where he spent last season. The player averaged 4.7 points and 3.1 rebounds for 25 games in Montenegro. Before Teodo, Marko spent one year with Jedinstvo Bijelo Polje and two with Buducnost Podgorica. In the past, he also played for Lovcen Cetinje. Marko was a member of U20 and U18 Montenegrin National Teams from 2007 to 2010.
Nikola Ljujic had 13.9 ppg and 4.4 rpg for 19 games with Jedinstvo Bijelo Polje last season. From 2009 to 2011 he played for Mornar Bar. Nikola was a member of U20 Montenegrin NT in 2010 and 2011. In 2009, he helped U18 Montenegro to win the bronze medal at U18 EuroBasket Division B in Sarajevo. He shined with 14.1 ppg and 5.1 rpg for 8 games at this event and was named to Eurobasket.com All-European Championships U18 Division B 2nd Team.
Stockholm Eagles are Basketligan newcomers.


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  SWITZERLAND   


Finland thump Switzerland in Fribourg - by Eurobasket News

Switzerland - Finland 60:89

Finland stayed perfect in 2013 EuroBasket Qualifying Round Group E. They fired past Switzerland in Fribourg tonight to gain 4-0 record on top of Group E. Switzerland fell at 1-3 record. Hanno Mottola (209-PF-76, college: Utah) delivered 17 points to lead the winners.
Finland dropped 26 points in the opening quarter to spur ahead. They accumulated a 7-point lead after ten minutes. The Finnish team extended the lead in the second quarter. They piled up a comfortable 49:29 halftime lead. Finland limited the hosts to just 8 points in the third quarter. The visitors accumulated a 30-point lead at the final intermission. Switzerland outscored Finland in the fourth term but only sweetened the pill at the end. Petteri Koponen (194-PG-88) chipped in 15 points, while Ville Kaunisto (205-F-82) and Gerald Lee (208-C-87, college: ODU) had 11 points each in the victory. Oliver Vogt (209-C-80) answered with 13 points and 8 rebounds for Switzerland. Jonathan Dubas (202-SF-91) had 12 points in the loss.

Switzerland: Oliver Vogt 13, Jonathan Dubas 12
Finland: Hanno Mottola 17, Petteri Koponen 15, Ville Kaunisto 11, Gerald Lee 11


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  TURKEY   


Czech Republic demolish Turkey in Chomutov - by Eurobasket News

Czech Republic-Turkey 82:64

Czech Republic demolish Turkey in Chomutov for 3-1 record in Group F. The team erupted with 82:64 win for the second place behind Italy. Turkey meanwhile fell at 2-2 record on the third place.
Czech Republic started with 21-19 in front of 2200 fans in Chomutov. Petr Benda (204-C-82, agency: Court Side) scored for 29:21 and Jakub Kudlacek (193-PG-90) brought 33:30. Jelinek closed it at 35:30, while Pumprla closed the run at 40:30. Czech Republic had 22-18 in the third period for 57:48 after three quarters. Jelinek increased the lead to 15 points early in the fourth when it was clear about the winner. Tomas Satoransky (201-PG-91) scored for 78:61 and Jiri Welsch (199-SG-80) made the final result in the game.
Tomas Satoransky paced all the winners with 16 points, while Petr Benda, Jiri Welsch and Jakub Kudlacek added 14 apiece. Kerem Gonlum (208-PF-77) and Semih Erden (211-F/C-86) replied with 13 points each in defeat, while Serhat Cetin (197-G/F-86) posted 12. Emir Preldzic (205-SF-87, agency: Beo Basket) followed them with 10 points in the losing effort.

Czech Republic: Tomas Satoransky 16, Petr Benda 14, Jiri Welsch 14, Jakub Kudlacek 14
Turkey: Kerem Gonlum 13, Semih Erden 13, Serhat Cetin 12, Emir Preldzic 10


Galatasaray is going to add Turkish power forward - by Ugur Turker

Galatasaray Medical Park Istanbul is looking to add one more Turkish Power Forward to its roster after leaving of Ilkan Karaman (205-F-90). The new player is expected to be Turkish young prospect. There are already limited number of promising player in Turkey who Galatasaray can move for him. Samet Geyik (205-F-93), Izzet Turkyilmaz (214-F/C-90) and Osman Sirin (207-F-90, college: Charlotte) are most probably candidates for Galatasaray Medical Park Istanbul but their teams want to keep them all.


Gelisim Koleji returns Jermaine Dearman to Turkey - by Eurobasket News (T)

Jermaine Dearman (202-F/C-80, agency: Top Notch Sports, college: S.Illinois) is back to Turkey. The American PF/C penned a deal with Gelisim Koleji. He split last season between Lebanese Beijeh and Japanese Fukuoka Rizing. In Japan, Dearman had 12.3 ppg and 6.6 rpg for 38 BJ league games. Before that, he shined with 19.2 ppg and 12.4 rpg for 5 games in Lebanon. Earlier this summer Dearman played for the USA selected team at the William Jones Cup. From 2009 until the last summer Jermaine Dearman was a member of Hacettepe. They won the promotion for TBL in their second season together. The American had 16.9 ppg and 8.3 rpg for 27 games in TB2L and was named to Eurobasket.com All-Turkish TB2L 1st Team -11. Hacettepe reached TB2L Finals. In the past, Jermaine Dearman was a member Nanterre, TED Koleji and Chinese team Shanghai Dongfang Sharks. He also has experience from Germany and Finland.


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  UGANDA   


Mark Power hustle to finish third in zone 5 - by Joel Nature

Third Place Playoff
KCB Lions 65-66 DMark Power
Uganda hosted this years FIBA Africa Zone 5 Championships with an aim to have home sides lift the men and womens crowns but it did not turn out to be the case.

Dmark Power, the reigning Airtel FUBA Champions were left bleak by at the semifinal stage by the eventual winners Espoir on Thursday.

The side only had to compensate home fans with a 66-65 win over KCB Lions in a last quarter nerve-wrecking third place tie.

The Kenyan side was in control from the start, leading the first and second quarters with 21-14 and 21-20 leads. But Power fought back to return 17-12 and 15-11 scores in the last two.

The final minute needed Power to hold the ball but with 38 seconds to play, Isaac Afidra lost the ball only for the Kenyans to miss the throw.

Joseph Ikong scored 16 points while Isaac Lugude had 14.
Only Ancetas Wafula of KCB (13) reached double figures.

PAST ZONE V WINNERS
1995 Harare (Men) Posta KCB (Women)
1996 Nairobi Coop (Men) KCB (Women)
1997 Kampala Coop (Men) KCB (Women)
1998 Dar-esalam Coop (Men) KCB (Women)
1999 Lusaka Cobra (Men) Telkom (Women)
2000 Kampala Falcons (Men) Ogopa (Women)
2001 Kigali Vijana (Men) KPA (Women)
2002 Nairobi APR (Men) KPA (Women)
2003 Zanzibar Ulinzi JKT E/AFRICA
2004 Kampala Postbank (Men) Lady Bucks (Women)
2005 Dar-esalam KCB (Men) Storms (Women)
2006 Nairobi KCB (Men) KPA (Women)
2007 Kigali APR (Men) KPA (Women)
2008 Addis Ababa APR (Men) KPA (Women)
2009 Kampala Coop (Men) KPA (Women)
2010 Bujumbura Coop (Men) Eagle Wings (Women)
2011 Dar-salaam Urunani (Men) KPA (Women)


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  UKRAINE   


Interview with a new Head Coach of BC Donetsk - by Eurobasket News

Eurobasket.com had a chance to speak with new Head Coach of BC Donetsk, Vlada Jovanovic, before 2012-13 season started and asked him few questions:

Vlada, you joined the team where three foreign players were already signed (Ivan Radenovic, Vojdan Stojanovski and Ramel Curry). More than that, it was just a few days ago when Donetsk signed new player. Before this the only freshman in the team was Doron Perkins. Usually clubs prefer to finish with all transfers before the start of pre-season camps.

Of course everybody wants to have final roster already in the end of July, but its not an easy thing to do. Those players that were really interesting for us would sign a contract with Ukrainian club in the beginning of summer only having overpaid numbers in that contract. And for us that is not acceptable. I need players who ready to work hard but not just a journeyman who came for easy money.

Believe me even now when Europe is still surviving after crisis, top-level players first search options in Spain, Italy or Turkey and only then check east.

Why did you choose Perkins as the first player to bring into the team?

I started to follow Doron long ago and in the middle of last season tried to sign him for Partisan. Perkins is the player who can be very helpful both in defense and in offense. He is point guard that naturally feels the game and has anthropometrics (height, power, long hands) that give him visible advantage over any opponent on both sides of the court.

More than that, deal with Perkins was important for us in terms of the future selection. If you manage to sign one high rated player in your team it becomes much easier to persuade other potential freshman. To be honest, Im not sure that for example DOr Fisher would prefer Donetsk to ACB teams if we would not have Doron here, who is one of his best friends.

You mentioned Fisher. What will be his role in the system of Vlada Jovanovic?

DOr is well-known as a defensive player. Fisher is the one who can be the base of our teams defense. On the other side I know his great offensive potential. His speed and good middle range shot will definitely give benefits to whole team in offence.

To continue with selection. Did you have an idea to refuse services of the foreign players that were signed before you appeared in the club?

Absolutely not. First of all I think it doesnt have sense to break the bone of the champions roster. Ivan Radenovic was one of the key players in system of Sasa Obradovic and I also expect a lot from him. As for Vojdan Stojanovski I must remind the fact that he was the most effective player of the Superleague finals, and this speaks for itself. I think it was a great decision to re-sign him before the start of the play-offs for the next season. That is an example of farsightedness that helped the club to safe the money.

What about Ramel Curry?

Re-signing Ramel was agreed with me. He was two times in a raw announced Superleague MVP, and he achieved that title with two different teams. This player knows the league, he is calm and coolheaded. I know that Sasa Obradovic doesnt like to be depended on one player, that is why last year minutes were sheared evenly with good rotation among 9-10 players. And even in this circumstances Curry proved to be the best scorer in the Eurocup.

Will Donetsk start the season having just five foreign players or we should expect one more foreigner?

We still search for player on position four. But that must be not another Ivan Radenovic. We need to bring more physicality to the team. It would be great to find the player with consistent long-range shot. Ideally it must be European player but unfortunately at this moment there are very few of such type of the players on the market.

Dont you afraid to have such a number of foreign players in your team? In Partisan you never had so many of them.

Actually youre not right. If you remember in season 2010/11 I had Nathan Jawai, James Gist, Curtis Jerrells and Jan Vesel. And I always check every player very scrupulously. It is my philosophy to have solid team of true personalities and I would never stand egoists or narcissists.

To compare this year and last year Donetsk rosters one can say that the team increased its salary budget.

I dont want to speak about financial part. Club gave me an exact budget that I can use to reach the goals we have. I must mention that last year Donetsk had Vyacheslav Kravtsov who left behind most of foreign opponents in Superleague and in Eurocup. To find an equal substitution with the same salary was absolutely impossible. Even if we forget about his Ukrainian passport.

Its much easier to bring foreign player in Belgrade than in Donetsk. Agents realize that in 90% after a season with Partisan price of their clients will increase. How much are you ready to overpay to get in Donetsk team the player you need?

You know, basketball is not mathematics. There is no definite scale: this player is overpaid, that player is underpaid. You will see the true picture of players contracts propriety only in May. If the team achieve all goals than all contracts were reasonable.

This is not what we wanted to hear from you

I will say this way: we started long-term negotiations with different players and still continue our selection campaign exactly because we want Donetsk players salaries be correspondent to the actual state of things on the market. As an example we have signed player 25-35% cheaper than he was asking in June.

It is also a bit strange that so far in Donetsk foreign players roster there is no players who are represented by BeoBasket agency a company that represents your interests.

I have never felt any pressure from my agent if this is your point.

Did you have an idea do bring to Donetsk any of your former players from Partisan?

It is always good to have a player whom you know and whom you can trust on 100%. We had negotiations with several players. Some of them were too expensive for us, some of them after all were substituted by other candidates.

Can you say that Vlada Jovanovic is tyrant-coach?

I cannot say that I am tyrant. Though I put discipline both on court and outside first. Can I raise voice on player? - Of course I can. But I dont think you will ever see me overwhelmed by emotions. As for practices, they are always intensive and saturate.

Did you talk to Sasa Obradovic (Donetsk former coach) before signing the contract with Ukrainian club?

Of course, its my first international experience, that is why it was an informed decision. Obradovic knew not only club structure but also peculiarities of Ukrainian championship as he spent here three years.

Lets get back to now days: could you tell us about preparation for new season.

We started our camp in Zlatibor (Serbia) on 12th of August and will stay here till 30th. Then we go to Belgrade to play couple of friendly games.

Of course its very hard to work without three players that are with the Ukrainian NT now. Also Fisher will join the team only on 31st of August and dont forget that one more position in the team still remains vacant. To cover all these gaps we invited some Serbian players to our camp to help us on practices.

On 10th of September we come back to Donetsk and already on 14th hopefully having full team we will go to Italy where continue to work up to the start of qualification of Euroleague that will be played in Desio this year.


*****************************************************
  URUGUAY   

Standings - Metropolitan League

Metropolitan Second stage Standings
 1. Atenas 16-6 
 2. Marne 13-8 
 3. Goes 12-9 
 4. Cader 12-10 
 5. Urunday Univ. 12-10 
 6. Larranaga 11-11 
 7. Capitol 0-0 
 8. Guruyu Waston 0-0 
 9. Romis N. 0-0 
 10. Verdirrojo 0-0 
 11. Yale 0-0 

Second Stage: Round 3

Aug. 28: Cader - Marne
Aug. 28: Goes - Larranaga
Aug. 28: Urunday Univ. - Atenas



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

Standings - LNB

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

Regular Season: Round 3

Aug. 24: Aduaneros - Generales 98-89
Aug. 25: Cent.Apure - Estudiantes 95-98
Aug. 24: Rojos de Sucre - Guacharos 89-105
Aug. 25: Aduaneros - Generales 87-73
Aug. 25: Atleticos UCV - Tiburones 85-94
Aug. 25: Rojos de Sucre - Guacharos 84-85
Aug. 25: Lanc.Cojedes - Bravos 83-79
Aug. 24: Lanc.Cojedes - Bravos 65-69
Aug. 24: Atleticos UCV - Tiburones 61-102
Aug. 24: Cent.Apure - Estudiantes 100-94

Regular Season: Round 4

Aug. 31: Cent.Apure - Aduaneros
Aug. 31: Generales - Lanc.Cojedes
Aug. 31: Estudiantes - Rojos de Sucre
Aug. 31: Guacharos - Atleticos UCV
Aug. 31: Bravos - Tiburones
Sep. 1: Cent.Apure - Aduaneros
Sep. 1: Generales - Lanc.Cojedes
Sep. 1: Estudiantes - Rojos de Sucre
Sep. 1: Guacharos - Atleticos UCV
Sep. 1: Bravos - Tiburones



*****************************************************
  VTB UNITED LEAGUE   


Enisey tab Hasan Rizvic - by Eurobasket News (T)

Enisey bolstered their frontcourt. They agreed on terms of contract with Hasan Rizvic (212-C-84). The deal is meant for one season. The Slovenian centre is expected to join the Krasnoyarsk team soon. The Slovenian centre is expected to join the Krasnoyarsk team soon. Hasan Rizvic started the previous season in Ukraine. He played for Azovmash Mariupol. He tallied 8.3 points, 5.5 boards, 1.5 blocks and 1.1 steals per game in Superleague. In VTB League the centre notched 10.0 points, 5.7 rebounds, 1.7 blocks and 1.3 steals per appearance. In EuroCup Hasan Rizvic posted 7.8 points, 6.4 rebounds and 1.3 blocks. Later Hasan Rizvic moved to Buducnost Podgorica. He accounted for 4.9 points and 2.7 rebounds per game in Adriatic League. In EuroCup the centre banked 3.6 points and 2.4 boards per appearance. Previously Hasan Rizvic had stints in Russia, Ukraine, Slovenia, Poland and Bosnia. He was named All-VTB League Centre of the Year in 2010.


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

Standings

Standings
1. Philippines7-1
2. Iran6-2
3. USA5-3
4. S.Korea5-3
5. Taiwan5-3
6. Japan3-5
7. Lebanon3-5
8. Jordan2-6
9. Taiwan B0-8

Preliminary Round: Round 9

Aug. 26: JPN - LEB 89-70
Aug. 26: TAI - KOR 77-72
Aug. 26: USA - PHI 75-76
Aug. 26: JOR - IRI 74-87




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

Women News


Sparks guard Jenna O'Hea returns to team - by Eurobasket News (T)

The Los Angeles Sparks welcome back Jenna O'Hea (185-SF-87) to the roster, the team announced today.

The 6'1" guard missed the first half of the season while playing for Team Australia in the Olympics. O'Hea averaged 7.4 points, 3.5 assists and 3.3 rebounds in 23 minutes in helping Australia to a Bronze Medal in London.

In her rookie campaign last season, O'Hea averaged 4.8 points, 1.3 assists and 1.5 rebounds in just 16.4 minutes per game.

The Australian native returns to a Sparks team that has won eight straight games, is 18-6 and in second place in the Western Conference. The Sparks will go for their ninth win in a row when they take on the New York Liberty tonight at 7:30PM at STAPLES Center.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com


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


U20 Hungary wins bronze medal in Klatovy, promotion for Division A - by Eurobasket News

U20 HUNGARY - U20 BELGIUM 56-41

Hungary won the bronze medal at U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. They outplayed Belgium in the last day of the competition 56-41. It is important to say that Hungary also won the promotion and will compete in Division A next summer. Belgium finished as the seventh ranked team in Klatovy with 3-5 score. Zsofia Licskai (191-C/F-93) had 12 points and 5 rebounds for the winners, and Viktoria Fuisz (175-G/F-93) added 10 points. Flora Szabo (188-PF-92) helped with 6 pts and 5 boards. In Belgium, Marieke Versavel (168-PG-92) top-scored with only 7 points. Celine Henry (174-F-93) had 6 points and 5 rebounds. Hungary exploded in the last ten minutes to take the victory in this meeting. Quarters: 14-11, 9-10, 8-11, 25-9. Greece won the gold medal in Klatovy. Silver belongs to Germany.

Hungary: Zsofia Licskai 12+5 boards, Viktoria Fuisz 10, Flora Szabo 6+5 boards
Belgium: Marieke Versavel 7, Celine Henry 6+5 boards


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


U20 Germany wins the silver medal and promotion for Division A - by Eurobasket News

U20 BULGARIA - U20 GERMANY 64-83

Germany won the silver medal at U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. They outplayed Bulgaria in the last day of the competition 83-64. Germany (6-2) also won the promotion for Division A. At the other side, Bulgaria ended as the last ranked team in Klatovy with 1-7 score. Germany took control on its rival from the very beginning and never looked back. Quarters: 12-23, 16-17, 14-22, 22-21. Sonja Greinacher (192-F/C-92, college: Gonzaga) was the MVP of this game with 20 points and 8 rebounds (valuation 25). Finja Schaake (179-F-92) scored 10 points and Janna Graf (183-PF-92) added 8 pts, plus 6 rebounds. Kristina Peychinova (176-SG-94) responded with 17 points in defeat. Gabriela Kostova (192-C-94) followed her with 15 points and 5 rebs, and Ralitsa Genova (192-C-95) stopped to 7 points. Greece won the gold medal in Klatovy. The Bronze belongs to Hungary.

Bulgaria: Kristina Peychinova 17, Gabriela Kostova 15+5 boards, Ralitsa Genova 7
Germany: Sonja Greinacher 20+8 boards, Finja Schaake 10, Janna Graf 8+6 boards


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


Jolly started with the preparations for the season - by Dajana Karl

Coach Edi Dzelalija and ZKK Sibenik Jolly JBS started preparing for the following season, they will be preparing in Subicevac, Baldekin and Razine.

From the last season's roster, only Ana Vrsaljko (188-F/C-84) is missing, with whom the club decided not to extend the contract.
Antonija Misura (178-F-88) and Luca Ivankovic (207-C-87) got 7 days off extra since they were at the Olympic games in London.

This season Dragan Ognjenovic will be the assistant coach and the start of A1 league will be on October 13.


Zadar agreed with Zana Cvjetkovic - by Dajana Karl

Zana Cvjetkovic (175-F-90) will be spending her next season with ZKK Zadar

Zana started her carrier in hometown Vodice, then a year later after wining Croatian Junior Cup, she moved to Pula to play with ZKK Rockwool Pula, where she was one of the key players on the team.

Zadar started preparing for the season on August 20 and Zana should be joining the team in the beginning of September. Bozena Rados (193-C-82) could sign with the team as well.


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


U20 Greece is the gold medal winner in Klatovy - by Eurobasket News

U20 CZECH REPUBLIC - U20 GREECE 71-76

Greece won the gold medal at U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. They outsmarted Czech Republic 76-71 in the last day of the competition. Greece also won the promotion for Division A, while the host of this event failed to do it. They ended as No.5 with 4-4 record. Artemis Spanou (184-F/C-93) exploded with 33 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Anna Stamolamprou (171-PG-95) netted 18 points and Vasiliki Tarla (181-SF-94) was their third scorer with 6 points (5 rebs). For the hosts, Dominika Pohunkova (176-G-94) shined with 16 points and Pamela-Therese Effangova (175-SF-93) added four points less. Barbora Kasparkova (181-F/C-92) collected 11 pts and 7 rebs. Greece shined in the last ten minutes to beat Czech Republic. Quarters: 12-21, 23-19, 20-14, 16-22. Germany won the silver medal in Klatovy. Hungary took the bronze. Artemis Spanou is MVP of the tournament.

Czech Republic: Dominika Pohunkova 16, Pamela-Therese Effangova 12, Barbora Kasparkova 11+7 boards
Greece: Artemis Spanou 30+9 boards, Anna Stamolamprou 18, Vasiliki Tarla 6+5 boards


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

Stats Leaders (Women)

Points Per Game
 Alina IAGUPOVA
  (186-G-92)
  Avg: 27.6
 1. Iagupova, UKR27.6 
 2. Zietara, POL17.2 
 3. Abdi, SWE16.2 
 4. Butter, NED15.6 
 5. Domingues, POR14.8 
 6. Papova, BLR14.0 
 7. De Kleijn, NED14.0 
 8. Colic, SRB13.9 
 9. Rozenberga, LAT13.6 
 10. Casas, ESP13.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Monika GRIGALAUSKYTE
  (190-PF-92)
  Avg: 10.6
 1. Grigalauskyt., LTU10.6 
 2. Tikhonenko, RUS10.6 
 3. Iagupova, UKR10.1 
 4. Mistygacz, POL9.3 
 5. Svaryte, LTU9.1 
 6. Green, ENG8.8 
 7. Papova, BLR8.2 
 8. Gil, ESP8.2 
 9. Brajkovic, SRB7.5 
 10. Hruscakova, SVK7.3 
Assists Per Game
 Alina IAGUPOVA
  (186-G-92)
  Avg: 5.3
 1. Iagupova, UKR5.3 
 2. Zietara, POL3.7 
 3. Cakir, TUR3.7 
 4. Dotto, ITA3.3 
 5. Ortiz, ESP3.0 
 6. Nystrom, SWE2.9 
 7. Dotto, ITA2.9 
 8. Adams, NED2.9 
 9. Colic, SRB2.9 
 10. Balintova, SVK2.6 
Steals Per Game
 Dorota MISTYGACZ
  (183-F/C-92)
  Avg: 3.1
 1. Mistygacz, POL3.1 
 2. Casas, ESP3.1 
 3. Iagupova, UKR3.0 
 4. Dotto, ITA2.9 
 5. Colic, SRB2.7 
 6. Bridina, LAT2.6 
 7. Ortiz, ESP2.4 
 8. Zietara, POL2.3 
 9. Butter, NED2.3 
 10. Cakir, TUR2.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Dorota MISTYGACZ
  (183-F/C-92)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Mistygacz, POL1.9 
 2. Tikhonenko, RUS1.7 
 3. Ivashchanka, BLR1.1 
 4. Papova, BLR1.0 
 5. Filonchyk, BLR0.9 
 6. Efimova, RUS0.9 
 7. Cornelie, FRA0.9 
 8. Zahui, SWE0.8 
 9. Diallo, FRA0.7 
 10. Basaran, TUR0.7 


Eurobasket.com All-European Championships U20 Awards 2012 - by Eurobasket Center

Eurobasket.com All-Tournament 1st Team
#s#
Ksenia Tikhonenko
Tikhonenko
Olcay Cakir
Cakir
Mariona Ortiz
Ortiz
Alina Iagupova
Iagupova
Queralt Casas
Casas
#e#5

Best Player: Ksenia Tikhonenko (190-F/C-93) of Russia
Best Guard: Mariona Ortiz (183-PG-92) of Spain
Best Forward: Alina Iagupova (186-G/F-92) of Ukraine
Best Center: Ksenia Tikhonenko (190-F/C-93) of Russia
Best Coach: Anna Caula of Spain

1st Team
PG: Olcay Cakir (180-93) of Turkey
PG: Mariona Ortiz (183-92) of Spain
G/F: Alina Iagupova (186-92) of Ukraine
G/F: Queralt Casas (180-92) of Spain
F/C: Ksenia Tikhonenko (190-93) of Russia

2nd Team
PG: Caterina Dotto (167-93) of Italy
G/F: Magdalena Zietara (170-92) of Poland
F: Farhiya Abdi (188-92) of Sweden
F: Marlou De Kleijn (182-92) of Holland
C: Laura Gil (190-92) of Spain

3rd Team
G: Zera Butter (179-92) of Holland
G/F: Daniela Domingues (176-92) of Portugal
PF: Maryia Papova (186-94) of Belarus
PF: Monika Grigalauskyte (190-92) of Lithuania
F/C: Dorota Mistygacz (183-92) of Poland

Honorable Mention
Erin McGarrachan (182-G-92) of United Kingdom
Laura Svaryte (190-C/F-92) of Lithuania
Ivana Brajkovic (195-C-93) of Serbia
Binta Drammeh (180-F-92) of Sweden
Ayse Cora (175-G/F-93) of Turkey
Francesca Dotto (170-PG-93) of Italy


Eurobasket.com All-European Championships U20 Division B Awards 2012 - by Eurobasket Center

Eurobasket.com All-Tournament 1st Team
#s#
Artemis Spanou
Spanou
Renata Pudlakova
Pudlakova
Emmanuella Mayombo
Mayombo
Cristina Bigica
Bigica
Finja Schaake
Schaake
#e#5

Best Player: Artemis Spanou (184-F-93) of Greece
Best Guard: Emmanuella Mayombo (170-SG-92) of Belgium
Best Forward: Finja Schaake (179-F-92) of Germany
Best Center: Artemis Spanou (184-F-93) of Greece
Best Coach: Thanos Softsis of Greece

1st Team
PG: Renata Pudlakova (173-92) of Czech Rep.
SG: Emmanuella Mayombo (170-92) of Belgium
G/F: Cristina Bigica (182-92) of Romania
F: Finja Schaake (179-92) of Germany
F: Artemis Spanou (184-93) of Greece

2nd Team
G/F: Krisztina Velkey (180-92) of Hungary
SG: Sonia Ursu (175-93) of Romania
PF: Bar Gilinski (185-92) of Israel
F/C: Barbora Kasparkova (181-92) of Czech Rep.
F/C: Sonja Greinacher (192-92) of Germany

Honorable Mention
Laura Hebecker (181-F-93) of Germany
Lilla Adamecz (181-F-92) of Hungary
Alexandra Ionescu (175-PG-92) of Romania
Thea Lemberger (175-G-92) of Israel
Iva Kostova (178-SG-94) of Bulgaria


Division B in Klatovy: Gold belongs to Greece, Spanou is MVP - by Eurobasket News

Czech Republic - Greece 71-76
Greece won the gold medal at U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. They outsmarted Czech Republic 76-71 in the last day of the competition. Greece also won the promotion for Division A, while the host of this event failed to do it. They ended as No.5 with 4-4 record. Artemis Spanou (184-F/C-93) exploded with 33 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Anna Stamolamprou (171-PG-95) netted 18 points and Vasiliki Tarla (181-SF-94) was their third scorer with 6 points (5 rebs). For the hosts, Dominika Pohunkova (176-G-94) shined with 16 points and Pamela-Therese Effangova (175-SF-93) added four points less. Barbora Kasparkova (181-F/C-92) collected 11 pts and 7 rebs. Greece shined in the last ten minutes to beat Czech Republic. Quarters: 12-21, 23-19, 20-14, 16-22. Germany won the silver medal in Klatovy. Hungary took the bronze. Artemis Spanou is MVP of the tournament.

Romania - Switzerland 43-65
Switzerland avoided last place at U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. They handed 65-43 loss to Romania in the last day of the competition. Thanks to this win Switzerland ended as No.7 with 2-6 record. Romania finished as fourth ranked team with 4-4 score. Switzerland took control on its rival in the second period and never looked back. Quarters: 16-16, 6-17, 12-16, 9-16. Rosalie Grobet (185-F/C-92) led the winners with 15 points and 14 rebounds. Sarah Cavin (178-SF-92) scored 13 points and Vanessa Dorestant (170-G-92) added 11 pts, plus 6 boards. In defeat, Cristina Bigica (182-G/F-92) was better than the others with 12 points. Their second scorer was Dora Ardelean (186-PF-94) with 10 pts. Greece won the gold medal at this event. Germany is No.2 and Hungary No.3. All three teams will compete in Division A next summer.

Bulgaria - Germany 64-83
Germany won the silver medal at U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. They outplayed Bulgaria in the last day of the competition 83-64. Germany (6-2) also won the promotion for Division A. At the other side, Bulgaria ended as the last ranked team in Klatovy with 1-7 score. Germany took control on its rival from the very beginning and never looked back. Quarters: 12-23, 16-17, 14-22, 22-21. Sonja Greinacher (192-F/C-92, college: Gonzaga) was the MVP of this game with 20 points and 8 rebounds (valuation 25). Finja Schaake (179-F-92) scored 10 points and Janna Graf (183-PF-92) added 8 pts, plus 6 rebounds. Kristina Peychinova (176-SG-94) responded with 17 points in defeat. Gabriela Kostova (192-C-94) followed her with 15 points and 5 rebs, and Ralitsa Genova (192-C-95) stopped to 7 points. Greece won the gold medal in Klatovy. The Bronze belongs to Hungary.

Hungary - Belgium 56-41
Hungary won the bronze medal at U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. They outplayed Belgium in the last day of the competition 56-41. It is important to say that Hungary also won the promotion and will compete in Division A next summer. Belgium finished as the seventh ranked team in Klatovy with 3-5 score. Zsofia Licskai (191-C/F-93) had 12 points and 5 rebounds for the winners, and Viktoria Fuisz (175-G/F-93) added 10 points. Flora Szabo (188-PF-92) helped with 6 pts and 5 boards. In Belgium, Marieke Versavel (168-PG-92) top-scored with only 7 points. Celine Henry (174-F-93) had 6 points and 5 rebounds. Hungary exploded in the last ten minutes to take the victory in this meeting. Quarters: 14-11, 9-10, 8-11, 25-9. Greece won the gold medal in Klatovy. Silver belongs to Germany.


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


Sarah Miles joins FoA - by Eurobasket News (T)

FoA bolstered their backcourt. They added Sarah Miles (170-G-89) to the squad. The deal is meant for the next season. The guard will start her pro career in Finland. Sarah Miles graduated from the West Virginia University in 2011. She tallied 8.3 points, 4.3 assists, 3.1 rebounds and 2.2 steals per game. Sarah Miles was named Big East Conference Co-Most Improved Player of the Year in 2009. The guard made it into All-Big East Conference 2nd Team in 2010. Sarah Miles was also named All-Big East Defensive Player of the Year in 2010.
FoA have already secured the services of Sarah Miles, Epiphany Woodson (172-G-89), Laura Saarinen (187-F/C-92), Jenny Vironen (158-PG-95), Juta Jahilo (186-C-84), Sanna Helenius (180-F-84, college: Valparaiso), Henna Koponen (183-F-86, college: Coker), Noora Jarvikangas (182-SF-94), Johanna Heinonen (171-F-94), Tiia Parttimaa (171-F-94) and Fanny Korpela (173-F-94) for the next season.


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


U20 Germany wins the silver medal and promotion for Division A - by Eurobasket News

U20 BULGARIA - U20 GERMANY 64-83

Germany won the silver medal at U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. They outplayed Bulgaria in the last day of the competition 83-64. Germany (6-2) also won the promotion for Division A. At the other side, Bulgaria ended as the last ranked team in Klatovy with 1-7 score. Germany took control on its rival from the very beginning and never looked back. Quarters: 12-23, 16-17, 14-22, 22-21. Sonja Greinacher (192-F/C-92, college: Gonzaga) was the MVP of this game with 20 points and 8 rebounds (valuation 25). Finja Schaake (179-F-92) scored 10 points and Janna Graf (183-PF-92) added 8 pts, plus 6 rebounds. Kristina Peychinova (176-SG-94) responded with 17 points in defeat. Gabriela Kostova (192-C-94) followed her with 15 points and 5 rebs, and Ralitsa Genova (192-C-95) stopped to 7 points. Greece won the gold medal in Klatovy. The Bronze belongs to Hungary.

Bulgaria: Kristina Peychinova 17, Gabriela Kostova 15+5 boards, Ralitsa Genova 7
Germany: Sonja Greinacher 20+8 boards, Finja Schaake 10, Janna Graf 8+6 boards


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


U20 Greece is the gold medal winner in Klatovy - by Eurobasket News

U20 CZECH REPUBLIC - U20 GREECE 71-76

Greece won the gold medal at U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. They outsmarted Czech Republic 76-71 in the last day of the competition. Greece also won the promotion for Division A, while the host of this event failed to do it. They ended as No.5 with 4-4 record. Artemis Spanou (184-F/C-93) exploded with 33 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Anna Stamolamprou (171-PG-95) netted 18 points and Vasiliki Tarla (181-SF-94) was their third scorer with 6 points (5 rebs). For the hosts, Dominika Pohunkova (176-G-94) shined with 16 points and Pamela-Therese Effangova (175-SF-93) added four points less. Barbora Kasparkova (181-F/C-92) collected 11 pts and 7 rebs. Greece shined in the last ten minutes to beat Czech Republic. Quarters: 12-21, 23-19, 20-14, 16-22. Germany won the silver medal in Klatovy. Hungary took the bronze. Artemis Spanou is MVP of the tournament.

Czech Republic: Dominika Pohunkova 16, Pamela-Therese Effangova 12, Barbora Kasparkova 11+7 boards
Greece: Artemis Spanou 30+9 boards, Anna Stamolamprou 18, Vasiliki Tarla 6+5 boards


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  HUNGARY   


U20 Hungary wins bronze medal in Klatovy, promotion for Division A - by Eurobasket News

U20 HUNGARY - U20 BELGIUM 56-41

Hungary won the bronze medal at U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. They outplayed Belgium in the last day of the competition 56-41. It is important to say that Hungary also won the promotion and will compete in Division A next summer. Belgium finished as the seventh ranked team in Klatovy with 3-5 score. Zsofia Licskai (191-C/F-93) had 12 points and 5 rebounds for the winners, and Viktoria Fuisz (175-G/F-93) added 10 points. Flora Szabo (188-PF-92) helped with 6 pts and 5 boards. In Belgium, Marieke Versavel (168-PG-92) top-scored with only 7 points. Celine Henry (174-F-93) had 6 points and 5 rebounds. Hungary exploded in the last ten minutes to take the victory in this meeting. Quarters: 14-11, 9-10, 8-11, 25-9. Greece won the gold medal in Klatovy. Silver belongs to Germany.

Hungary: Zsofia Licskai 12+5 boards, Viktoria Fuisz 10, Flora Szabo 6+5 boards
Belgium: Marieke Versavel 7, Celine Henry 6+5 boards

Standings - Women

A Division Standings
 1. Atomeromu 0-0 
 2. BSE-FCSM 0-0 
 3. Cegledi EKK 0-0 
 4. DKSK 0-0 
 5. Pecs 0-0 
 6. PTE-PEAC 0-0 
 7. UNI SEAT 0-0 
 8. UNIQA Eurol. 0-0 
 9. Vasas 0-0 
 10. ZTE 0-0 



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  NEW ZEALAND   


DSU hires Caleb Harrison as next women's basketball coach - by Eurobasket News (T)

Dickinson State athletic director Tim Daniel said Caleb Harrison fit the mold the university was looking for in its next head women's basketball coach.

Daniel said Monday night that Harrison has officially been hired to coach the Blue Hawks in the 2012-13 season.

Harrison was chosen by DSU to replace former head coach Andre Goldberg on June 27, but his deal was not finalized until Monday. The terms of the deal were not disclosed.

"We're excited to get him on board and get him going," Daniel said.

Harrison, a native of Christchurch, New Zealand, was chosen after an on-campus interview June 25. He was one of two coaches DSU had on campus to interview for the position. The other was former Northwestern State assistant coach Bob Austin.

Harrison could not be reached for comment when contacted by The Press.

Daniel said Harrison's experience at the NAIA level swayed the hiring committee's decision to recommend him for the position.

Harrison was the head coach at NAIA Division I Hannibal (Mo.) LaGrange University last season, where he guided the team to a 17-14 record a year after it won just six games. He recruited both the American Midwest Conference's Newcomer and Freshman of the Year. He previously had assistant coaching gigs at Southwest Baptist (Mo.), Dakota State (S.D.) and Lambuth (Tenn.), all of which are NAIA schools.

DSU had been a NAIA Division II school in basketball until this coming season. The Frontier Conference is at the NAIA Division I level, where schools can offer more scholarships than at Division II.

"He's experienced at the recruiting process at an NAIA institution that's some ways like us and some ways not like us," Daniel said. "That was huge."

Daniel, who coached the DSU men's basketball team from 1992 to 2003, said Harrison has a smart coaching philosophy and is an excellent recruiter.

Daniel said Harrison stresses a motion offense with a man-to-man defense but made it known in his interview that he doesn't want his teams to be pigeonholed into those styles.

"One of the things that impressed me is that Caleb adjusts his style of play around the athletes he has," Daniel said. "He's not a person who's going to try to and mold his players around his style. He's going to allow his players to be put in the position where they have the best position to succeed."

Harrison came highly recommended, Daniel said. Among his references, he listed legendary former Northern State men's basketball Don Meyer and Lin Dunn, head coach of the WNBA's Indiana Fever.

Before coming to the United States to earn his master's degree at Indiana State, he attended Christchurch College of Education in New Zealand, where they did not have a basketball team.

Daniel said Harrison is recruiting and attempting to fill some of DSU's roster voids before the start of the school year.

"He's off and running," Daniel said. "He's got lots of good leads. It is late, but I think even with the lateness, where we're at in the timeline of recruiting where I think he's got thechance to go and get us some players that are going to help right away next year."

By: The Dickinson Press Staff


Season ends in heartbreak - by Eurobasket News

Tall Ferns guard Micaela Cocks (174-G-86, college: Oregon) saw her SEABL season end when Geelong Supercats hit a buzzer-beater to eliminate her Sandringham Sabres 68-66 in the eastern conference preliminary final.

Cocks led the Sabres with 20 points (8/13 FG, 4/4 FT), seven rebounds and three assists, while playing the entire 40 minutes.

Sandringham led by two in the final minute of the game and their rivals tied up the scores with 28 seconds remaining.

The contest seemed headed for overtime, until Geelongs Anna Teague scored to send the Cats through to the conference final against Dandenong Rangers.

But the South East Australia Basketball League southern conference final will feature Kiwi Gemma Kerr sister of former Tall Ferns captain Aneka Kerr who will line up at point guard for Kilsyth Cobras against Knox Raiders.

Two weeks ago, Kerr had 11 points and four assists when Kilsyth beat the Raiders 66-60 two weeks ago to progress directly to the final.
Courtesy of: www.basketball.org.nz


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  PUERTO RICO   

Standings - Women

BSNF Standings
 1. Quebradillas 3-0 
 2. Carolina G. 2-0 
 3. Juncos V. 1-1 
 4. San German 1-1 
 5. Morovis M. 0-0 
 6. Aguas B.T. 0-1 
 7. Ponce L. 0-4 

Regular Season: Round 3

Aug. 25: San German - Ponce L. 86-69
Aug. 26: Juncos V. - Quebradillas 81-83
Aug. 27: Aguas B.T. - San German
Aug. 26: Morovis M. - Carolina G.


Atleticas dominate Tigresas 88-72: - by Luis Modestti

Atleticas de San German dominated Tigresas 88-72 Monday night in BSNF. Atleticas improved their record to 2-1 while Tigresas are winless in two games.

San German started the game with a 9-3 run and won the first quarter 21-12. Their imports led the way and San German finished the first half up 51-32 and after 30 minutes the score wsas 70-49.

Dominique Smith (177-G, college: Prairie View A&M) scored 17 points, Earnesia Williams (185-F-87, college: Texas) 15 and Zuleimarie Sanchez 14 for the winners.

Dominic Seals had 19 and Andriana Johnson 11 for Tigresas.

The games for Tuesday are Valencianas at Montaeras and Piratas visit Leonas.


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  ROMANIA   


U20 Switzerland avoids last place in Klatovy - by Eurobasket News

U20 ROMANIA - U20 SWITZERLAND 43-65

Switzerland avoided last place at U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. They handed 65-43 loss to Romania in the last day of the competition. Thanks to this win Switzerland ended as No.7 with 2-6 record. Romania finished as fourth ranked team with 4-4 score. Switzerland took control on its rival in the second period and never looked back. Quarters: 16-16, 6-17, 12-16, 9-16. Rosalie Grobet (185-F/C-92) led the winners with 15 points and 14 rebounds. Sarah Cavin (178-SF-92) scored 13 points and Vanessa Dorestant (170-G-92) added 11 pts, plus 6 boards. In defeat, Cristina Bigica (182-G/F-92) was better than the others with 12 points. Their second scorer was Dora Ardelean (186-PF-94) with 10 pts. Greece won the gold medal at this event. Germany is No.2 and Hungary No.3. All three teams will compete in Division A next summer.

Romania: Cristina Bigica 12, Dora Ardelean 10
Switzerland: Rosalie Grobet 15+14 boards, Sarah Cavin 13, Vanessa Dorestant 11+6 boards


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  SERBIA   


Vrbas added L'oreal Joi Price - by Dragana Vukovic (T)

The management of ZKK Vrbas Medela announced that they have signed American player L'oreal Joi Price (173-G/F-87, college: Fayetteville St.) for the upcoming season. L'oreal Joi Price graduated on Fayetteville College. In her last season she averaged 11.5ppg, 5.0rpg, 2.6apg. After that she played in WBCBL for RDU Sting. This is her first coming in Europe to play basketball. She will be a big reinforcement for young team of ZKK Vrbas Medela.


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  SWITZERLAND   


U20 Switzerland avoids last place in Klatovy - by Eurobasket News

U20 ROMANIA - U20 SWITZERLAND 43-65

Switzerland avoided last place at U20 EuroBasket Division B in Klatovy. They handed 65-43 loss to Romania in the last day of the competition. Thanks to this win Switzerland ended as No.7 with 2-6 record. Romania finished as fourth ranked team with 4-4 score. Switzerland took control on its rival in the second period and never looked back. Quarters: 16-16, 6-17, 12-16, 9-16. Rosalie Grobet (185-F/C-92) led the winners with 15 points and 14 rebounds. Sarah Cavin (178-SF-92) scored 13 points and Vanessa Dorestant (170-G-92) added 11 pts, plus 6 boards. In defeat, Cristina Bigica (182-G/F-92) was better than the others with 12 points. Their second scorer was Dora Ardelean (186-PF-94) with 10 pts. Greece won the gold medal at this event. Germany is No.2 and Hungary No.3. All three teams will compete in Division A next summer.

Romania: Cristina Bigica 12, Dora Ardelean 10
Switzerland: Rosalie Grobet 15+14 boards, Sarah Cavin 13, Vanessa Dorestant 11+6 boards


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  TURKEY   


TED Ankara lands Ana Dabovic - by Eurobasket News (T)

Another signing for TED Ankara for the upcoming season. The team landed Serbian guard/small forward Ana Dabovic (183-G/F-89). Few months ago she won the Polish league title and Cup with TS Wisla Can-Pack Krakow. The player had 7.6 ppg, 2.4 apg and 1.9 rpg for 33 PLKK games. In Euroleague she averaged 4.6 points and 1.5 rebounds for 15 appearances. Before Wisla Krakow, Dabovic spent one year with Dynamo-GUVD Novosibirsk. With them she exploded with 20.3 ppg, 5.4 rpg, 4.6 apg and 2.6 spg for 9 EuroCup games. Dabovic was top scorer and third assistant of the competition. She was named Eurobasket.com All-EuroCup Guard of the Year -11. Dynamo-GUVD Novosibirsk reached EuroCup Quarterfinals. In Russian league, Dabovic was top scorer and top assistant with 19.5 ppg and 5.1 apg for 22 games. There she was named to Eurobasket.com All-Russian Superleague 2nd Team -11 and Eurobasket.com Russian Superleague All-Bosmans Team -11. In the past, Ana Dabovic played in Greece, Montenegro and Albania. She had 14.4 ppg, 3.4 rpg and 2.4 apg for 8 games in 2013 EuroBasket Qualifications. She helped Serbian NT to book a ticket for France.


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  WNBA   


Bird leads Storm past Liberty, 84-66 - by Eurobasket News

A blank list on the video board revved up the crowd.

No Seattle Storm player was on the injury report showed in the arena. The entire roster, for the first time this year, was available. The result was a blowout.

Sue Bird (5'9''-PG-80, college: Connecticut) had 18 points and 10 assists, Lauren Jackson (6'5''-F/C-81) scored 16 points and the Storm snapped a three-game losing streak with an 84-66 whitewashing of the fatigued New York Liberty on Sunday night.

The Storm have fluctuated all season while navigating injuries and the absence of Jackson, who spent the first half of the year training for the London Olympics.

Sunday was just her second game back, she played a big role despite shooting 3 for 11 from the field.

With team's so focused on Jackson, numerous options open up, such as Camille Little (6'2''-F/G-85, college: N.Carolina), who had 15 points and eight rebounds, and slashing space for rookie Shekinna Stricklen (6'2''-G/F-90, college: Tennessee), who had 12 points.

"That's when Sue's at her best," Seattle coach Brian Agler said. " (When) you put people around her that can do different things."

The change which led to Bird's first double-double of the season and 20th of her career was evident from the start. Stricklen's layup on the break prompted New York coach John Whisenant to call a timeout with 5:20 left in the first quarter after the Storm opened on a 12-2 run.

Tina Thompson lofted in the exclamation point of the first quarter with a 3-pointer just before the buzzer. Seattle finished the first 10 minutes up 28-9, its biggest lead of the season following the opening quarter. The Liberty committed eight turnovers in the first and was outrebounded 11-6.

Bird's midrange jumper at the end of the second gave the Storm its biggest lead of the half, 21 at 51-30, and its biggest halftime lead of the season. Bird had eight assists in the half on her way to her first double-double of the season and 20th of her career.

Seattle (11-13) has struggled to come up with offensive rebounds throughout the season coming into the game, the Storm averaged 6.35 offensive rebounds, by far last in the WNBA, and had 14 the last four games combined. Agler made it a point of emphasis and Sunday, the Storm had 13.

While the Storm ran out to a large lead, New York tried to steady itself on weary legs. The Liberty (9-15) played their sixth game in the last nine days, which left Whisenant irritated.

"Without taking anything away from Seattle, the league ought to take some of our loss," Whisenant said. "It was a terrible schedule."

Cappie Pondexter, the WNBA's second-leading scorer, had 23 points for the Liberty, though New York would get no closer than 14 points in the second half. She was the only New York player in double figures.

Jackson is still trying to find her rhythm. She missed her first five 3-point attempts Sunday, the last hitting the rim, backboard, then the rim again twice before rolling off. Jackson laughed on her way back up the court. She swished her next 3. The three-time MVP is 4 for 15 from the field in two games since returning.

"As we get more practice under our belt, we're going to get better," Jackson said. "It was obvious the other night. Our next game we'll get better. You never know what we'll achieve."

Count Whisenant as a believer.

"I think Seattle, now that they've got Lauren back and when she gets in a rhythm like I know she can I can see them getting into the playoffs and winning the whole thing," he said.

Courtesy of http://online.wsj.com


Sky snaps 9-game skid with 82-70 win over Sun - by Eurobasket News

Epiphanny Prince (5'9''-G-88, college: Rutgers) scored 15 points and the short-handed Chicago Sky snapped a nine-game losing streak with an 82-70 victory over the Connecticut Sun on Sunday.

Olympic center Sylvia Fowles (6'6''-C-85, college: LSU) and forward Tamara Young missed the game because of personal reasons. Sky coach Pokey Chatman said Young had a death in the family.

Reserve center Carolyn Swords (6'6''-C-89, agency: LBM Management, college: Boston Coll.) started in Fowles absence and had a career-high 14 points and added six rebounds for the Sky (9-14). Swin Cash had 14 points and six rebounds, and Courtney Vandersloot added 11 assists and four steals.

Allison Hightower (5'10''-G-88, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: LSU) had 17 points and five assists for the Eastern Conference-leading Sun (17-6). Connecticut played its fifth straight game without Olympic forward Asjha Jones, sidelined by a strained left Achilles tendon.

Kara Lawson had 16 points and six assists for Connecticut, and Tina Charles added 15 points, eight rebounds and four blocks.

The Sun could have clinched a playoff berth with a win and a New York Liberty loss Sunday night at the Seattle Storm.

Chicago outhustled and outplayed the Sun. Chicago made 10 3-pointers and shot 46.5-percent from the field. The Sky also had a 38-26 rebounding advantage.

Chicago trailed 50-41 with over 6 minutes left in the third quarter, then closed the period with a 20-5 run.

Cash made a 3-pointer to cut the deficit to four points late in the quarter. LeCoe Willingham followed with a turnaround bank shot and a wide-open 3-pointer to put Chicago ahead.

A turnover led to Cashs layup. She closed the quarter with a wide-open 3-pointer from the top to give the Sky a 61-55 lead they never relinquished.

Courtesy of www.suntimes.com


Sparks guard Jenna O'Hea returns to team - by Eurobasket News (T)

The Los Angeles Sparks welcome back Jenna O'Hea (185-SF-87) to the roster, the team announced today.

The 6'1" guard missed the first half of the season while playing for Team Australia in the Olympics. O'Hea averaged 7.4 points, 3.5 assists and 3.3 rebounds in 23 minutes in helping Australia to a Bronze Medal in London.

In her rookie campaign last season, O'Hea averaged 4.8 points, 1.3 assists and 1.5 rebounds in just 16.4 minutes per game.

The Australian native returns to a Sparks team that has won eight straight games, is 18-6 and in second place in the Western Conference. The Sparks will go for their ninth win in a row when they take on the New York Liberty tonight at 7:30PM at STAPLES Center.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com