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

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Men News

*****************************************************
  ADRIATIC LEAGUE   



Cibona Zagreb brings in Tweety Carter - by Rado Markovic Hribernik

KK Cibona VIP Zagreb have announced another reinforcement for the upcoming season. The new member of the team from Croatian capital is a former Baylor point guard Tweety Carter (180-PG-86, college: Baylor). The player comes from the Israeli team Bnei Hasharon, where he averaged 20.7 points, 7.1 assists and 2.5 rebounds in israeli national championship.

Carter is the third reinforcement for KK Cibona VIP Zagreb this summer, as before him, they signed Ante Masic (200-F-85, agency: Interperformances) from Zlatorog and Marko Jagodic Kuridza (204-C-87) from Capljina.



*****************************************************
  AUSTRALIA   


Crocs sign first import - by Eurobasket News

The Townsville McDonalds Crocodiles are excited to announce the signing of 28 year old 196cm guard/forward Jason Forte (196-F-84, college: S.Mississippi) as the first import of season 2012/13.

Forte adds some notable size to the playmaker position left void by Eddie Gill.

Jason can play point guard through to power forward, he is very versatile and an explosive athlete. He takes it to the rack hard and he can set guys up, said Head Coach Paul Woolpert.

Forte has played previously under Woolpert and comes very highly recommended.

He played under me at the Yakima Sun Kings in the CBA. He is a great guy, a great teammate and I think he will fit in very well with the playing group. I am looking forward to his arrival.

Jason is another guy who can spread the floor to make room for our big, but he can also take the reigns when called upon, said Woolpert.

Crocs CEO Ian Smythe agrees with Woolpert, saying this is exactly the kind of signing the team needs to help take that extra step.

I like the moves we have made. We have a roster that is rock solid from the point guard to small forward.

He provides that toughness and versatility that a team can never have enough of. Toughness and the go get em attitude is what it takes in this league, so he definitely fits the bill, said Smythe.

Forte has played previously under Woolpert at the Yakima Sun Kings in Americas CBA, as well as Turkey, Romania and most recently for the Alaska Aces in the Philippines PBA.

With preseason around the corner, Forte is expected in Townsville later this month.

Forte is coming off a stint at the Alaska Aces in the Philippines PBA.

Courtesy of NBL Australia (www.nbl.com.au)


Crocs sign import Jason Forte - by Hugh McAuliffe

The Townsville Crocodiles are excited to announce the signing of 28 year old Jason Forte (196-F-84, college: S.Mississippi) as the first import of season 2012/13.

Forte adds some notable size to the playmaker position left void by Eddie Gill.

Jason can play point guard through to power forward, he is very versatile and an explosive athlete. He takes it to the rack hard and he can set guys up, said Head Coach Paul Woolpert.

Forte has played previously under Woolpert and comes very highly recommended.

He played under me at the Yakima Sun Kings in the CBA. He is a great guy, a great teammate and I think he will fit in very well with the playing group. I am looking forward to his arrival."

Jason is another guy who can spread the floor to make room for our big, but he can also take the reigns when called upon, said Woolpert.

Crocs CEO Ian Smythe agrees with Woolpert, saying this is exactly the kind of signing the team needs to help take that extra step.

I like the moves we have made. We have a roster that is rock solid from the point guard to small forward."

He provides that toughness and versatility that a team can never have enough of. Toughness and the go get em attitude is what it takes in this league, so he definitely fits the bill, said Smythe.

Forte has played previously under Woolpert at the Yakima Sun Kings in Americas CBA, as well as Turkey, Romania and most recently for the Alaska Aces in the Philippines PBA.

With preseason around the corner, Forte is expected in Townsville later this month.

Forte is coming off a stint at the Alaska Aces in the Philippines PBA.


SBL Quarter finals - by Hugh McAuliffe

Wanneroo, Lakeside, Mandurah and Cockburn all won their opening quarter-final State Basketball League fixtures on the weekend.

Wanneroo beat the Kalamunda Eastern Suns 108-99 at Ray Owen Sports Centre on Saturday night with Greg Hire scoring 20 points and pulling in eight rebounds and dishing out six assists for the Wolves. Jordan Wild scored 33 points and Jackson Hussey 24.

Andy Stewart's Lakeside Lightning beat the Goldfields Giants 96-82 at Neil Hansen Basketball Stadium largely thanks to 37 points from Luke Payne.

The Mandurah Magic beat the East Perth Eagles 99-91 at Mandurah Aquatic and Recreation Centre thanks to 30 points from Taylor Mullenax and 18 from ex-Wildcats championship winner Aaron Trahair.

Tom Jervis scored 33 points to go with 18 rebounds for the Eagles with Drew Williamson also scoring 21 points with six boards and five assists.

The Cockburn Cougars scored a big 106-74 win over the Perth Redbacks at Belmont Oasis with Jeremiah Wilson outstanding with 24 points and nine rebounds. Joel Wagner scored 18 points and had 10 assists for the Redbacks with Jarrad Prior scoring 11 points.


Tigers defeated by Washington State in pre-season game - by Hugh McAuliffe

The Washington State Cougars have scored a narrow 75-74 victory over the Melbourne Tigers in an exhibition game.

New recruit Chris Goulding (192-G-88) gave the Tigers fans a reason to get excited about the upcoming season putting 20 points and six rebounds on the board. Nate Tomlinson scored 14 points, and Auryn Macmillan finished with 12 points, nine rebounds and six blocks.

Brock Motum, the Brisbane born Cougar had a high 21 points, as well as seven rebounds and two blocks. Devonte Lacy and Reggie Moore were the other two impressive scorers from the Cougars who scored 16-points and 11-points (six assists) respectively.

The Kilsyth Stadium was at capacity for the viewing of the pre-season match up between the Tigers and Cougars.

The Tigers started the game as the team to beat and went into the half time break holding a 10-point lead. However, the Cougars came out firing in the third quarter and outscored the Tigers 23-10. The Tigers responded with a 21-19 point fourth quarter but the work was already done and the Cougars held on.

After Motum scored on an offensive rebound, Goulding had a shot to win the game for the Tigers but couldn't connect.

Current Melbourne Tiger, Lucas Walker was watching from the sidelines and shared his insights on his team's play.

"It was a great effort by a team that was only put together two days ago," Walker said. "They showed great structure and forced outside shots from the Cougars in the first half.

The Melbourne Tigers team had four of their regular players suited up (Goulding, Burston, Tomlinson and Greer) which gave some youngsters the opportunity to have a run with the team.

The guys that filled in did a great job, they played well and there is nothing negative to say just that the team was limited but having a couple of us contracted players on the bench Walker commented.


*****************************************************
  BALTIC LEAGUE   


Neptunas brings in Vytautas Sarakauskas - by Eurobasket News

Neptunas added another player for the upcoming season. According to Krepsinis.net, Their new member is Vytautas Sarakauskas (204-C-82). The 30-year-old Lithuanian will be used at position 5. Sarakauskas arrives to the club from Siauliai, where he spent last three seasons. In the latest one the center had 7 ppg and 5 rpg for 21 LKL games. He registered slightly lower numbers for 12 Baltic league games. Sarakauskas got injured late in November and retuned to the court at the beginning of March. In 2011, the player was named to Eurobasket.com All-Baltic League 2nd Team. In LKL, he was awarded with Lithuanian LKL Honorable Mention -11. Before Siauliai, Vytautas Sarakauskas played for Sakalai Vilnius. He also has experience from SSK-Perlas Vilnius. In 2007, Sarakauskas was named Eurobasket All-Lithuanian LKL Newcomer of the Year.


Juventus tab Darrick Leonard - by Eurobasket News

Juventus continued to stay active on the market. They agreed on terms of contract with Darrick Leonard (188-G-84, college: Aurora). The guard spent the last season two seasons with Pieno Zvaigzdes. He tallied 3.1 points, 3.3 rebounds, 1.6 assists and 1.0 steal per game in Baltic League last season. In LKL Darrick Leonard posted 5.5 points and 2.3 rebounds per appearance. Eurobasket.com named Darrick Leonard All-Lithuanian NKL Import Player of the Year in 2011. He also made it into Lithuanian NKL All-Defensive Team in 2011. He celebrated NKL title with Pieno Zvaigzdes in 2011. Darrick Leonard played for Raseiniai and Vulturii Eagles before joining Pieno Zvaigzdes.
Juventus announced the signing of Nerijus Varnelis yesterday.


Neptunas add David McClure - by Eurobasket News

Neptunas brought in import player. They inked contract with David McClure (200-F-86, college: Duke). The forward is actually coming back to Neptunas. He played for the team back in 2010/11 season. David McClure averaged 6.3 points, 5.3 rebounds and 2.0 assists per game in Baltic League then. Last season the forward spent with Kedainiai Triobet. His stats read 10.2 points, 7.0 rebounds and 1.5 assists in LKL. In Baltic League David McClure notched 10.8 points, 9.3 rebounds and 1.4 steals per appearance. Eurobasket.com named the forward All-Baltic League Player of the Year. He also earned All-LKL Honourable Mention. David McClure played in D-League before moving to Lithuania.


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  BELARUS   


Minsk-2006 keeps Ronaldas Rutkauskas - by Eurobasket News

Minsk-2006 announced signing of Ronaldas Rutkauskas (203-PF-92) to contract extension. It will be their second season together. In the latest one Rutkauskas mostly played for Minsk-2006 II. The Lithuanian power forward shined with 19.4 ppg and 9.4 rpg for 29 games in the league. He was named Eurobasket.com All-Belarusian League Forward of the Year -12 and participated at the All-Star Game.
As mentioned above, Ronaldas Rutkauskas arrived to Minsk-2006 a year ago from 08 Stockholm. In 2010/11 season the player had 1.8 ppg and 1.8 rpg for Stockholm in Swedish Basketligan. He also played for BG Fryshuset Stockholm in Basketettan collecting 15.5 ppg and 9.8 rpg for 13 games. He played for the same teams also in 2009/10. Two years ago Rutkauskas was a member of the Lithuanian U18 National Team.


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  BELGIUM   


American Universities in Belgium - by Peter Buyse

For those who enjoy watching college basketball the month of August has quite a bit to offer. Three American universities are touring Europe and also have games scheduled in Belgium. First up is Virginia who play Gembo Borgerhout on the 11th of August at 20.00. Next up is Missouri who have games scheduled vs Waregem and Gent Dragons.
The game in Waregem takes place on Monday the 13th of Aug at 20.00. The next day they play Gent Dragons also at 20.00.
Next up is Colorado who also play Gent as well as Gembo. On the 18th at 20.00 they play Gent Dragons and they match up with Gembo on Sunday the 19th of Aug at 14.00.


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  BULGARIA   


Bulgarian U18 National Team 2012 - by Greg

Bulgarian U18 National Team 2012
#s#
Angel Angelov
Angelov
Georgi Barzakov
Barzakov
Anton Dikov
Dikov
Milen Dudev
Dudev
Velislav Galabov
Galabov
#e#5
Angel Angelov 201-PF-94 Beroe Bulgaria
Georgi Barzakov 202-SF-94 Overgas Bulgaria
Anton Dikov 191-SG-94 Cherno More U20 Bulgaria
Milen Dudev 177-PG-94 Lukoil Academik Bulgaria
Velislav Galabov 205-C-94 Balkan Bulgaria
Stoyan Grancharski 182-PG-94 Academik PL Bulgaria
Nikolay Grozev 199-SG-94 Lukoil Academik Bulgaria
Venelin Hristov 196-SG-95 Cherno More U20 Bulgaria
Filip Kamenov 196-SF-95 Balkan 2 Bulgaria
Deyan Karamfilov 180-PG-94
Kiril Kirilov 207-F/C-94 Shumen Bulgaria
Simeon Lepichev 201-PF-95
Nikolay Marinov 175-PG-94 Balkan Bulgaria
Vassil Mihaylov 197-SG-94
Aleksandar Milov 196-SG-95 Overgas Bulgaria
Kris Minkov 198-SF-94 Lukoil Academik Bulgaria
Nikolay St. Nikolov 195-SF-94 Dunav 2007 Bulgaria
Angel Peychinov 198-PF-95 Overgas Bulgaria
Nikolay Stoyanov 195-SF-94 Cherno More Bulgaria
Maksim Vanchev 183-PG-94 Beroe Bulgaria
Aleksandar Vezenkov 205-F/G-95 Aris Greece
Denislav Vutev 206-C-94 Cherno More Bulgaria
Georgi Yankov 188-PG-94 Cherno More U20 Bulgaria

Petko Delev Head Coach Cherno More U20 Bulgaria
Galin Stoyanov Assistant Cherno More U20 Bulgaria



Bulgaria lost the opener in Chomutov - by Eurobasket News

Bulgaria lost the opener in Chomutov at the start of the International Tournament. The team lost to Holland 84:97 in Day 1.
The teams traded baskets throughout the starting quarter. Holland looked better at the end of the frame and reached 26-24 lead after ten minutes. Moreover the Dutch side increased the lead to 55:45 at the halftime. Bulgaria bounced back in the third period and reduced to 68:61 with 10 minutes to go. Bulgaria could not get closer than 6 points in the fourth frame and had to surrender at the end.
Arvin Slagter (192-G-85, agency: Court Side) paced all the winners with 20 points, while Worthy de Jong (194-SG-88, agency: R.H.Consultancy) collected 15 points and 9 rebounds. Brandon Heath (193-G-84, college: San Diego St.) answered with 15 points for Bulgaria, Pavel Marinov (197-G-88, agency: Interperformances) posted 14 points in the loss. Filip Videnov (196-F/G-80, agency: Alti Sport, college: W.Kentucky) scored 12 and Cedric Simmons (206-F/C-86, college: N.Carolina St.) posted 9.
In Day 2 Bulgaria will face Slovakia.


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


Lin-SANE - by Alex Yam

This summer was as much about Jeremy Lin as it was any other player including a certain someone in Orlando, from Lin's battle to keep his bird rights with the league, to the tussle and eventual departure from New York, and landing on Yao's former team, the Houston Rockets. The way in which led Lin to leave NY, has tarnished Lin's squeaky clean religious image, sort of.

New York has as much to do with Lin, becoming "Linsanity"as Lin does, in a market 2nd to none when it comes to media and global superiority, it bred an overnight sensation. Sure Lin took advantage of Mike D'Antoni's inabilities to execute as a head coach, and caught the other teams by surprise, but NY allowed him to flourish and play his way on the court, masked his obvious flaws, his suspect left hand, inability to defend, a marginal, at best shooter, and his incredibly high turnover rate. No one ever mentions that during his incredible offensive run, he was also among the league leaders in turnovers, but I guess dropping 38 and 14 on the Lakers in prime time, can hide that.

Leaving NY may ultimately prove to be a mistake, as Houston will surround Lin with virtually all rookies and 2nd year players with the exception of Kevin Martin, who much like Lin needs the ball in his hands to contribute. Clearly Carmelo Anthony and Jeremy Lin were never going to co-exist together, that much was obvious.


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  CROATIA   


Predrag Suput moves to Cedevita Zagreb - by Eurobasket News

Predrag Suput (200-F-77, agency: Beo Basket) moves to Cedevita Zagreb for the upcoming season. The Serbian player moves to Croatia.
Few month ago Predrag Suput conquered another title in Germany as his Brose Baskets defended Beko BBL Title as they swept the Final series over Ratiopharm. The winner of the Regular Season celebrated a 97:95 win in Game 3 to win the series 3-0.
The hosts trailed by 6 points after three quarters before their 29-21 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Brose Baskets looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. 27 personal fouls committed by ratiopharm Ulm helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was American guard Brian Roberts who scored 16 points and 6 assists. Serbian forward Predrag Suput chipped in 15 points and 5 assists. Tucker posted 13 and Gavel notched 11.
At the other side the best for losing team was American guard Isaiah Swann who recorded 36 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. Per Guenther added 17 points, while Nankivil scored 13.
In 2011-2012 for Brose Baskets Bamberg (Germany-1.Bundesliga) he averaged 10.9ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 51.6%, 3PT: 31.0%, FT: 90.0% in EuroLeague. In German League he showed 8.4 points per game.


KK Zadar signed Romeo Travis - by Dajana Karl

KK Zadar signed American player Romeo Travis (200-PF-84, college: Akron) who played last season for Israeli team Altshuler Saham Galil Gilboa. He's the University of Akron's all-time blocked shots leader. In 2007 as a senior in college, Travis was honored as MAC Player of the Year. Last season in Israeli league in 28 games, playing the average of 29.9 minutes his statistics are 17.9 points, 4.5 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 1.1 steals and 0.7 blocked shots, while in the 9 games of the Balkan league playing the average of 25.2 minutes his statistics are 13.4 points, 5 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 1 steal and 0.8 blocked shots. He was named All-Israeli League Player of the Year, All-Israeli League 1st Team, Israeli League All-Imports Team, All-Israeli League Forward of the Year, All-Balkan League First Team, All-Balkan League Forward of the Year and All-Balkans League All-Imports Team by our website for very same season.

Travis went to St. Vincent - St. Mary High School and played alongside teammate and childhood friend LeBron James (203-SF-84). These two together appeared in documentary called "More Than a Game" alongside Dru Joyce III, Sian Cotton, Willie McGee and their coach, Dru Joyce II.They won national championship in 2003.


U Mobitelco Cluj Napoca signs Croatian PG Vedran Nakic - by Eurobasket News

Vedran Nakic (184-PG-89) will continue his career in Romania. The 23-year-old Croatian point guard signed a deal with former champions U Mobitelco Cluj Napoca. Nakic heads to Cluj from Minsk-2006, where he spent last season. He split it between their first and second team. With Minsk first team Nakic had 7 ppg, 2.2 rpg and 3 apg for 13 Belarusian league games. He moved to Minsk II in January adding 10.4 ppg, 2.1 rpg and 1.9 apg for 19 games. Nakic participated at the All-Star Game. Before Minsk, Vedran Nakic split 2010/11 season between Dubrava and Brotnjo Ciluk. With the Bosnian squad he had 5.9 ppg and 1.9 apg for 7 games. In the past, the PG played for Samobor, Zabok and Zagreb. He also has experience from the Slovenian team Postojna.


Cibona inks American PG Tweety Carter - by Eurobasket News

Cibona reinforced its roster at position 1. The reining Croatian champion penned a deal with Tweety Carter (180-PG-86, college: Baylor). He arrives to the club from Bnei Eshet Tours Hasharon. For 23 games in Israeli Premier league Carter shined with 20.7 ppg, 7.1 apg and 2.5 rpg. He participated at the All-Star Game and was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Israeli League Honorable Mention -12. Before Bnei Hasharon, Tweety Carter spent was a member of Ventspils. He joined them in March of 2011 averaging 6.7 points and 3.1 assists for 22 Latvian league games. He had almost the same numbers for 6 Baltic league appearances. Carter started 2010/11 season the NBA D-League team Tulsa 66ers. He graduated at Baylor University two years ago.


Croatian U18 National Team 2012 - by Greg

Croatian U18 National Team 2012
#s#
Ivan Bogdanovic
Bogdanovic
Mislav Brzoja
Brzoja
Filip Bundovic
Bundovic
Andrija Coric
Coric
Antonio Crnjevic
Crnjevic
#e#5
Boban Jure Alkar Sinj Croatia
Ivan Bogdanovic 200-PF-94 Dubrovnik Croatia
Mislav Brzoja 194-F/G-94 Dubrava Croatia
Filip Bundovic 203-C-94 Cedevita Croatia
Andrija Coric 198-SG-95 Siroki II Bosnia
Antonio Crnjevic 201-G/F-94 Zabok Croatia
Lovro Demo 195-SG-94 Kaptol Croatia
Tomislav Gabric 202-F-95 Jolly Croatia
Dominik Herendic 188-PG-94 Kaptol Croatia
Mario Hezonja 202-G/F-95 FCB Regal Spain
Martin Junakovic 185-PG-94 Mladost Z. (C) Croatia
Valentin Jurkovic 201-PF-94 Capljina Bosnia
Robert Kujundzic 202-PF-94 Darda Croatia
Karlo Lebo 193-SG-94 Cedevita Croatia
Marin Maric 197-SF-94 KK Split Croatia
Dominik Mavra 189-SG-94 KK Zagreb CO Croatia
Jakov Mustapic 188-G-94 Cedevita Croatia
Marko Proleta 192-G-94 Kaptol Croatia
Dario Saric 208-F/C-94 Gescrap BB Spain
Karlo Zganec 203-F-95 Bosco Croatia
Daniel Zovko 196-G-94 Pet Bunara Croatia

Jaksa Vulic Head Coach Siroki II Bosnia
Ivan Lozanic Assistant



KK Cedevita Zagreb adds Tomas to their roster - by Eurobasket Center

KK Cedevita Zagreb agreed terms with former international 27-year old guard Marko Tomas (201-G-85). Tomas played most recently at Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul (Turkey). But he struggled last year with injuries. While playing 6 games in Euroleague for Fener.Ulker last season he recorded 3.5ppg, 1.7rpg and left in Feb.12. He also played 7 games in Turkish League and his stats were 9.1ppg, 2.1rpg and 1.1apg. He helped them to make it to the President Cup final and two years ago with winning the Turkish League title. Tomas is a very experienced player. He played also pro basketball in China, Spain and Turkey.

By Eurobasket Data Center


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  CZECH REPUBLIC   


BK Lions Jindrichuv Hradec Announce New Additions - by Surujh Roopnarine

Last seasons 1.Liga champions have announced some new additions to the club for the 2012-13 season.
First up is Jan Pavlik (186-SG-78). The veteran shooting guard spent last season with SKB Proton Zlin where he led the 1.Liga in scoring with a 20.4ppg average. The 34-year old Pavlik has had a well-traveled career; a former Czech National Team member, multiple time NBL All-Star and success abroad winning multiple Hungarian League Championships. At 6-1, Pavlik is able to slide over to the point guard position, but as Jindrichuv Hradec will definitely rely on, his scoring and veteran leadership will be their main interest this season.
The second signing, more than a decade younger, is 7-0 center Tomas Voslajer (212-C-90) who joins the club from BC Prievidza of Slovakia where he won a Championship last season. In 33 games as a reserve, the 21-year old Voslajer averaged 3.6 points and 2.3 rebounds in 10 minutes per contest.
This young big man figures to play behind recent new addition Radim Kramny (212-C-85) under the basket and forms a very big frontcourt with returning star Jan Tomanec (205-C-85).


Czech Republic edged Slovakia at home tournament - by Eurobasket News

Czech Republic-Slovakia 77:71

Czech Republic edged Slovakia at home tournament in Chomutov. The hosts beat the opponents 77:71 in the opener.
Czech Republic started better and won the first period 19-15. Slovakia meanwhile replied with 20-16 in the second frame and tied the score at 35:35 at the halftime. The third quarter however was decisive in the game. Czech Republic pushed the tempo for good and grabbed 8-point advantage after three quarters. Slovakia responded with 21-19 in the last stanza to reduce to 6 points at the final whistle.
Michal Batka (204-C-87) top-scored for the Slovakian team with 17 points, while Robert Nuber (187-PG-83) and Anton Gavel (189-G-84, agency: Pro One Sports) added 10 apiece. Jelinek replied with 16 points for the winners and Tomas Satoransky (200-G-91) notched 15. Ondrej Balvin (216-C-92), Lubos Barton (202-F/G-80, college: Valparaiso), Pavel Pumprla (200-F-86) and Welsch ended up with 8 points each in a win.

In another game Bulgaria lost the opener in Chomutov at the start of the International Tournament. The team lost to Holland 84:97 in Day 1.


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  DENMARK   

Stats Leaders - Basketligaen

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



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


Play pro basketball in Canada !!! - by Eurobasket

The National Basketball League of Canada is back after a successful first season. Play in state of the art arenas, in front of a great fan base, all while being overseas yet still close to home!
The National Basketball League of Canada and the ACTS Athlete Institute will host an exclusive Draft Combine that will be held August 25th & 26th, 2012. This event will provide NBL Canada prospects the opportunity to demonstrate their skills to team coaches, general managers, and owners with ambitions to be selected in the 2012 NBL Canada Draft.
The National Basketball of Canada Draft Combine will feature:
- 5 Hours of Live Gameplay
- 2 Hours of Skill Evaluation
- Player Measurements and Registration
- On-Site Lunch
- Private GM/Owner/Coaching Viewing Area

To register visit www.nblcanada.ca


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  ESTONIA   


Ukraine edge Estonia in Tbilisi - by Eurobasket News

Ukraine-Estonia 60:49

Ukraine edge Estonia in Tbilisi in the start of the International Tournament. Fratello's team controlled the majority of the game and reached 60:49 win in Day 1.
Ukraine won the first period 19-18 and led 3 points at the halftime. Later the winners reached 50:38 and enjoyed 55:45. They managed to keep the advantage and won the opener of the tournament.
Kyryl Natyazhko (210-C-90, agency: Beo Basket, college: Arizona) top-scored for the winners with 18 points and Steven Burtt (185-G-84, college: Iona) notched 10. Maxym Korniyenko posted 7, while Sergii Gladyr (196-G/F-88) added 5. Kristjan Kangur (201-F-82) delivered 20 points in the losing effort and Siim-Sander Vene (203-F-90, agency: Alti Sport) had 10. Sten-Timmu Sokk (181-G-89) and Gregor Arbet (194-F/G-83) posted 5 points each.
Tomorrow Ukraine will face Belarus. Estonia will take on the hosts, Georgia.

Ukraine: Kyryl Natyazhko 18, Steven Burtt 10, Maxym Korniyenko (205-F/C-87) 7, Sergii Gladyr 5
Estonia: Kristjan Kangur 20, Siim-Sander Vene 10, Sten-Timmu Sokk 5, Gregor Arbet 5


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  EUROCUP   


Jahmar Young signs with Orleans - by Eurobasket News

Jahmar Young (196-G-86, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: N.Mexico St.) signs with Orleans for the next season. The American Guard moves from Latvia to France.
In 2011-2012 he played for BK Ventspils (Latvia-LBL, starting five) and in Latvian League averaged 15.3ppg, 2.2rpg, 2.0apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 56.4%, 3PT: 43.5%, FT: 85.5%. In Baltic League after 19 games his stats read 14.2ppg, 2.4rpg, 2.9apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 48.1%, 3PT: 42.1%, FT: 75.0% and in EuroCup Qualifications had 21.0ppg, 2.0rpg, 1.5spg. In EuroChallenge he averaged 14.4ppg, 3.3rpg, 2.5apg, Steals-4 (1.7spg), FGP: 43.4%, 3PT: 35.5%, FT: 81.0%.
The seaosn 2010 Young started in Crvena Zvezda. He tallied 12.6 points, 3.1 assists, 2.5 rebounds and 1.0 steal per game in Adriatic League. Jahmar Young moved to Belgium in March. The guard joined Spirou Charleroi. His stats read 9.0 points and 1.3 rebounds per game in Belgian League. He won the title with Spirou Charleroi. It was the first pro season for Jahmar Young. The guard graduated from New Mexico State University in 2010. He tallied 20.3 points, 3.5 rebounds and 3.1 assists per appearance in his senior season.


Spartak Saint Petersburg extend Vasili Zavoruev - by Eurobasket News

Vasili Zavoruev (197-G-87, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav) stays with Spartak Saint Petersburg. The guard has agreed on terms of contract extension. The new deal is meant for two seasons. Vasili Zavoruev joined Spartak Saint Petersburg at the start of the previous season. He notched 1.5 points per EuroCup game. In VTB League Vasili Zavoruev tallied 5.7 points and 1.1 rebounds per appearance. The guard also delivered 3.8 points per game in Russian League. Previously Vasili Zavoruev had stints with Dynamo Moscow, AEL Limassol, Standart Samara, BC Kyiv and CSKA Moscow. Eurobasket.com named the guard All-Russian A Superleague Newcomer of the Year in 2006. He was the member of U16, U18 and U20 Russian National Teams.


Cibona inks American PG Tweety Carter - by Eurobasket News

Cibona reinforced its roster at position 1. The reining Croatian champion penned a deal with Tweety Carter (180-PG-86, college: Baylor). He arrives to the club from Bnei Eshet Tours Hasharon. For 23 games in Israeli Premier league Carter shined with 20.7 ppg, 7.1 apg and 2.5 rpg. He participated at the All-Star Game and was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Israeli League Honorable Mention -12. Before Bnei Hasharon, Tweety Carter spent was a member of Ventspils. He joined them in March of 2011 averaging 6.7 points and 3.1 assists for 22 Latvian league games. He had almost the same numbers for 6 Baltic league appearances. Carter started 2010/11 season the NBA D-League team Tulsa 66ers. He graduated at Baylor University two years ago.


Dinamo Sassari extends deal with Anthony Binetti - by Eurobasket News

Dinamo Sassari announced signing of a 1-year contract extension with Anthony Binetti (186-G-83, college: Seattle Pacific). He will play only in EuroCup. The American/Italian point guard arrived to the club last summer from Prima Veroli. He got a chance in 11 SerieA games, but with very limited playing time. Binetti averaged less than a point. In 2010/11, the PG had 2.4 ppg and 1.4 rpg for Veroli in 34 LegaDue games. They won LegaDue Cup together. Anthony Binetti already played for Sassari in 2009/10 season. That year he had 6.1 ppg and 2.2 rpg in 43 games helping the club to win LegaDue Playoffs. At the same time they won the promotion for SerieA. In the past, Anthony Binetti played for Brindisi, Capo d'Orlando, Rosalia and Climamio Bologna. He has some experience from the Seattle Pacific University (NCAA2).


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  EUROLEAGUE   


Besiktas extends Baris Hersek and Serhat Cetin for the next season - by Eurobasket News

Besiktas officially announced signing of 1-year contact extension with Baris Hersek (204-F/C-88) and Serhat Cetin (197-G-86).
Baris Hersek joined Besiktas last summer from Antalya. He played 32 TBL games last season averaging 2.8 points and 1.4 rebounds. The Turkish big guy also had 2 ppg and 1.3 rpg for 10 games in EuroChallenge. Before Besiktas and Antalya, he played for Banvit, Darussafaka and Efes Pilsen.
Serhat Cetin arrived to Besiktas in 2010 from Feberbahce Ulker. Last season he had 6.2 ppg, 3.1 apg and 2.3 rpg in 34 TBL games. His numbers were lower in 15 EuroChallenge appearances.
Besiktas had perfect season winning TBL and EuroChallenge titles, plus they won the Turkish Cup. The team will play in Euroleague next season.


Union Olimpija inks Dylan Page for 2012/13 - by Eurobasket News

Union Olimpija added another player for the next season. It is American Dylan Page (204-F-82, college: Wisc.-Milwaukee), who spent last three years with Roanne. He shined with 14.5 ppg and 5.6 rpg for 32 games in ProA last season. Roanne also competed in EuroChallenge, where Page added 13.8 ppg and 4.9 rpg in 14 games. They reached Quarterfinals in this competition. Dylan Page was one of the best Roanne players in all three years. He was awarded twice with Eurobasket.com All-French ProA Honorable Mention -10, 12. Before Roanne, Page spent one year with Pau-Orthez and one with Granada. He also has experience from Mallorca, Panellinios and MENT. Page graduated at the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee in 2004.


Regal Barcelona announced Marko Todorovic - by Eurobasket News

Regal Barcelona announced Marko Todorovic (210-C/F-92) for the next season. Few days ago Regal Barca made an offer to Marko Todorovic and brought now the player to the roster.
Marko Todorovic played 5 games for Joventut last season in Liga Endesa averaging 3.4 points and 1.8 rebounds. The Montenegrin forward spent most of the season with CB Prat Juventut in LEB Silver. There he shined with 15.8 ppg, 8.2 rpg and 1.4 bpg for 26 games. Todorovic was named Eurobasket.com All-Spanish LEB Silver Forward of the Year -12 and also Eurobasket.com All-Spanish LEB Silver 1st Team -12. He joined Joventut in 2008 as 16-year-old player. Todorovic played for U20 Montenegro last summer at U20 EuroBasket in Bilbao. He had 8.6 ppg, 7.9 rpg and 1.4 spg for 9 games at this event. In the past, Todorovic played for U18 Montenegro. A year ago with Prat Joventut he was named Eurobasket.com All-Spanish LEB Silver Bosman Player of the Year -11.


Predrag Suput moves to Cedevita Zagreb - by Eurobasket News

Predrag Suput (200-F-77, agency: Beo Basket) moves to Cedevita Zagreb for the upcoming season. The Serbian player moves to Croatia.
Few month ago Predrag Suput conquered another title in Germany as his Brose Baskets defended Beko BBL Title as they swept the Final series over Ratiopharm. The winner of the Regular Season celebrated a 97:95 win in Game 3 to win the series 3-0.
The hosts trailed by 6 points after three quarters before their 29-21 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Brose Baskets looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. 27 personal fouls committed by ratiopharm Ulm helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was American guard Brian Roberts who scored 16 points and 6 assists. Serbian forward Predrag Suput chipped in 15 points and 5 assists. Tucker posted 13 and Gavel notched 11.
At the other side the best for losing team was American guard Isaiah Swann who recorded 36 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. Per Guenther added 17 points, while Nankivil scored 13.
In 2011-2012 for Brose Baskets Bamberg (Germany-1.Bundesliga) he averaged 10.9ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 51.6%, 3PT: 31.0%, FT: 90.0% in EuroLeague. In German League he showed 8.4 points per game.


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  FRANCE   


Roanne add Dusan Kecman - by Eurobasket News

Roanne bolstered their backcourt. They added Dusan Kecman (197-F-77, agency: Beo Basket). The Serbian player spent the last season with Partizan. He tallied 6.0 points, 2.8 rebounds and 1.8 assists per game in Adriatic League. In Euroleague Dusan Kecman notched 6.2 points, 2.5 rebounds and 1.3 assists per appearance. In Serbian League Dusan Kecman posted 4.2 points, 1.7 assists and 1.4 rebounds per appearance. Previously Dusan Kecman had stints with Panathinaikos, BC Kyiv, Efes Pilsen, Oostende, Kozani, IMT Beograd. Dusan Kecman made it into All-Serbian League 2nd Team in 2008. He was also named into Euroleague All-Defensive Team in 2008. Dusan Kecman was the member of Serbian National Team in 2008/09 seasons.


Hyeres-Toulon signs two players - by Eurobasket News

Hyeres-Toulon signed Gorjan Radonjic (199-F-81) and Christophe Leonard (199-F-90) for the upcoming season.
Gorjan Radonjic arrives to the club from Kecskemeti, where he finished 2011/12. He joined them in December averaging 8.3 points and 4.3 rebounds for 12 games in Hungarian league. Radonjic is not a new face in France as he played for Chalons-Reims in 2010/11 season. He had 8.8 ppg and 2.2 rpg for 33 games in ProB.
Christophe Leonard spent last season with Le Havre. He appeared 20 times in ProA averaging 4.8 points and 3.8 rebounds. From 2008 until the last summer Leonard played for Cholet. They won ProA title together in 2010, but Leonard had very limited playing time. In 2010/11, the player averaged 4.5 points and 2.6 rebounds for 8 Euroleague games.


Jahmar Young signs with Orleans - by Eurobasket News

Jahmar Young (196-G-86, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: N.Mexico St.) signs with Orleans for the next season. The American Guard moves from Latvia to France.
In 2011-2012 he played for BK Ventspils (Latvia-LBL, starting five) and in Latvian League averaged 15.3ppg, 2.2rpg, 2.0apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 56.4%, 3PT: 43.5%, FT: 85.5%. In Baltic League after 19 games his stats read 14.2ppg, 2.4rpg, 2.9apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 48.1%, 3PT: 42.1%, FT: 75.0% and in EuroCup Qualifications had 21.0ppg, 2.0rpg, 1.5spg. In EuroChallenge he averaged 14.4ppg, 3.3rpg, 2.5apg, Steals-4 (1.7spg), FGP: 43.4%, 3PT: 35.5%, FT: 81.0%.
The seaosn 2010 Young started in Crvena Zvezda. He tallied 12.6 points, 3.1 assists, 2.5 rebounds and 1.0 steal per game in Adriatic League. Jahmar Young moved to Belgium in March. The guard joined Spirou Charleroi. His stats read 9.0 points and 1.3 rebounds per game in Belgian League. He won the title with Spirou Charleroi. It was the first pro season for Jahmar Young. The guard graduated from New Mexico State University in 2010. He tallied 20.3 points, 3.5 rebounds and 3.1 assists per appearance in his senior season.


Gravelines to sign Dwight Buycks, according to report - by Eurobasket News

Gravelines is set to sign Dwight Buycks (190-PG-89, college: Marquette) for the next season, according to Catch-and-shoot.com. Last month the American point guard participated at the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas. He appeared four times with the San Antonio Spurs averaging 5.5 points and 1.5 assists. Buycks played for the Oklahoma City Thunder at Orlando Summer League. There he had 5.7 ppg for 3 games. Dwight Buycks finished last season with Telenet Oostende. He had 4.6 ppg and 1.6 rpg in 14 games helping Oostende to win the Belgian league title. Buycks started the season with the NBA D-League team Tulsa 66ers. There he shined with 15.1 ppg, 2.7 rpg and 2.6 apg for 28 games. Dwight Buycks is a product of Marquette University, where he graduated something more than a year ago.


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  GEORGIA   


Jacob Pullen receives Georgian citizenship - by Eurobasket News

Jacob Pullen (182-PG-89, college: Kansas St.) announced via Twitter that he received Georgian citizenship. It means that the American guard will play in Europe as Bosman, not as import any longer. Pullen spent last season with Italian Angelico Biella. It was his first year as a pro. For 32 games in SerieA Pullen averaged 16 points, 3.2 assists, 1.8 rebounds and 1.8 steals. Last month he participated at the NBA Summer League in Orlando and Las Vegas. In Orlando, he had 19 ppg, 3 apg and 2 rpg for 2 games with Philadelphia 76ers. In Las Vegas, Pullen played for the Phoenix Suns.
Jacob Pullen is product of the Kansas State University, where he graduated a year ago. He had 20.2 ppg, 3.7 apg and 2.9 rpg for 31 games with his school as a senior.


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  GERMANY   


The LTi Giessen 46ers Grab Jimmy Baxter - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

According to sportando.net, The LTi Giessen 46ers have grabbed a real gem off the transfer market. In the last years, the team had much fortune having the needed experience with American Maurice Jeffers and now will get it with Jimmy Baxter (198-G-80, agency: Court Side, college: S.Florida). Baxter is a 31 year old 198cm guard from St Petersberg, Flroida. Germany will be his 13th country that he has played in in his professional career. Last season, he played for Krka Novo Mesto (Slovenia-Telemach League, starting five): Adriatic League: 12 games: 10.5ppg, 4.0rpg, 2.0apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 44.0%, 3PT: 35.7%, FT: 78.9%; EuroCup: 6 games: 9.5ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.5apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 47.6%, 3PT: 22.2%, FT: 62.5%, left in Dec.'11, in Jan.'12 moved to Ikaros Kallitheas (Greece-A1, starting five): 12 games: 12.9ppg, 3.5rpg, 2.0apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 42.3%, 3PT: 38.6%, FT: 62.9%; left in Mar.'12, later that month signed at JL Bourg Basket (France-ProB, starting five): 7 games: 17.1ppg, 4.4rpg, 5.0apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 59.3%, 3PT: 23.3%, FT: 86.7%; in May'12 agreed terms with Sluc Nancy Basket Pro (France-ProA, starting five): 3 games: 1.7ppg, 1.7rpg. Baxter is a former track and field All-American and Olympic hopeful in the high-jump from the University of South Florida. He played basketball at S.Florida (NCAA) from 2000-2004 playing a total of 96 NCAA games. He started his professional basketball career in 2004 with Oliveirense Simoldes (Portugal-TMN, starting five): 8 games: 8.4ppg, 3.1rpg, 1.8apg, 2FGP: 61.4%, 3FGP: 15.8%. In 2005-2006, he played for JDA Dijon Bourgogne (France-ProA, starting five): 34 games: Score-5 (16.5ppg), 3.2rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 55.5%, 3PT: 41.5%, FT: 83.3%. In 2006-2007, he played for Edimes Pavia (Italy-Lega2, starting five): 18 games: 13.6ppg, 4.7rpg, 1.8apg, 2.3spg, 2FGP: 50.7%, 3PT: 35.7%, FT: 82.9%; inactive in Jan.'07, in April '07 moved to Bipop-Carire Reggio Emilia (Italy-SerieA, starting five): 18 games: 7.9ppg, 2.4rpg, 1.4spg, 2FGP: 47%, 3PT: 31.0%, FT: 55.0%. In 2007-2008, he played for BK Ventspils (Latvia-LBL, starting five): LBL: 13 games: 11.2ppg, 4.9rpg, 2.2apg, 1.8spg, 2FGP: 53.0%, 3PT: 16.0%, FT: 75.0%; ULEB Cup: 12 games: 19.2ppg, 4.6rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 56.6%, 3PT: 48.2%, FT: 84.1%; Baltic League: 19 games: 13.9ppg, 4.7rpg, 2.3apg, 1.7spg, 2FGP: 58.8%, 3PT: 28.9%, FT: 66.7%, left in May'08. In 2008-2009, he played for Base Oostende (Belgium-D1, starting five): Belgian League: 4 games: 12.8ppg, 2.5rpg, 1.3apg, 1.0spg; Eurocup Qualifications: 2 games: 14.0ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.0apg, in Nov.'08 signed at Besiktas ColaTurka Istanbul (Turkey-TBL, starting five): Turkish League: 28 games: 16.4ppg, 3.9rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 56.1%, 3PT: 37.1%, FT: 70.9%; Eurocup: 6 games: 15.3ppg, 4.0rpg, 2.3spg. In 2009-2010, he played for Ironi Ashkelon (Israel-Premier League, starting five): 24 games: 13.5ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.9apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 64.5%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 65.5%. In 2010-2011, he played for Ilysiakos Athens (Greece-A1, starting five): 22 games: Score-3 (15.9ppg), 4.7rpg, 2.0apg, Steals-1 (1.8spg), FGP: 51.6%, 3PT: 35.4%, FT: 76.7%, in March'11 moved to Petrochimi Bandar Imam Harbour (Iran-Superleague, starting five): Playoffs: 37mpg, 22.0ppg, 6.0rpg, 3.0apg, 3.0spg, FGP: 55%, 3PT: 38%, FT: 78%. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been NCAA Award of Valor -03, WBA Semifinals -05, Portuguese TMN Semifinals -05, French LNB All-Star Game -06, French Cup Winner -06, Eurobasket.com All-French ProA 2nd Team -06, Latvian League All-Star Game -08 (Slam Dunk Contest Winner), Eurobasket.com All-Baltic League Honorable Mention -08, Greek League All-Star Game -11, Iranian Superleague Semifinals -11, and Slovenian Supercup Winner -12.


ASC Theresianum Mainz Bring In Leo Laurig - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Regionaliga south team ASC Theresianum Mainz announced today the signing of Leo Laurig (200-F-93). Laurig is a 21 year old 200cm forward with PRO B experience. He comes from TV Langen and last season played . "Leo is a very talented player that fits into out system. He is a very dynamic player that isnt seen right away. His strength is on the wing and under the basket", stressed Alexander Heidbrink. He played 16 games for TV Langen last season gaining experience and averaging 1,1ppg. He played a total of 25 PRO B games.

Source: ASC Theresianum Mainz


Chase Griffin Back In Germany with the Oettinger Rockets Gotha - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Chase Griffin (188-G-83, college: Pepperdine) is no unknown basketball face in Germany as he has played in Hagen and GIessen and after a season abroad in Finland, the American is back in Germany in the PRO A with the Oettinger Rockets Gotha in the PRO A. Griffin is a 29 year old 194cm guard from Sammamish, Washington. Last season, he played for Torpan Pojat Helsinki (Finland-Korisliiga, starting five): 47 games: 16.4ppg, 3.5rpg, 2.7apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 50.3%, 3PT: 40.5%, FT: 86.5%. He started his basketball career in 2002 with Pepperdine (NCAA) where he played until 2007. In his senior year, he played 30 games: 15,8ppgppg, 4,4rpg, 1,9apg, FG: 43,5%, 3PT: 37%, FT: 64.6%. He played a total of 98 NCAA games for Pepperdine. In 2007-2008, he started his professional basketball career with Phoenix Hagen playing 14 games: 15.7ppg, 4.6rpg, 3.3apg, 1.4spg, 2FGP: 44.4%, 3FGP: 41.5%, FT: 76.1%. In 2008-2009, he helped Phoenix Hagen move up to the Beko BBL playing 28 games: 16.9ppg, 3.9rpg, 4.3apg, FGP: 56.0%, 3PT: 40.5%, FT: 78.1%. In2009-2010, he continued to play for Phoenix Hagen playing 33 games: 13.5ppg, 3.2rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 47.1%, 3PT: 33.6%, FT: 83.5%. In 2010-2011, he played for the LTi Giessen 46ers playing 22 games: 8.5ppg, 1.2rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 46.2%, 3PT: 42.5%, FT: 86.7%. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been WCC Tournament Semifinals -04, All-WCC Honorable Mention -07, Eurobasket.com All-German 2.Bundesliga Pro A All-Imports Team -09, Eurobasket.com All-German 2.Bundesliga Pro A 1st Team -09, German 2.Bundesliga Pro A Runner-Up -09, Finnish League Semifinals -12, and Eurobasket.com All-Finnish Korisliiga Honorable Mention -12.

Source: Oettinger Rockets Gotha


German U15 Roster Announced For Nordsee Cup - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

German U15 head coach Harold Stein has nominated the team that will take part in a practice seminar from August14-16 in Dortmund and then take part at the Nordseecup in Amsterdam, Holland from August 17-19. Stein also has named the winningest ex German professional basketball player ever Patrick Femerling as an assistant coach. Germany plays Sweden on Friday August 17th, Denmark on Saturday August 18th and Holland on Sunday August 19th. The roster is as follows.Georg Beyschlag (TSV Noerdlingen), Malik Eichler (ALBA Berlin), Luis Figge (Paderborn Baskets), Moritz Huebner (Cybex Urspring), Haris Hujic (Baskets Ldenscheid), Daniel Keppeler (TSV Breitengbach), Leon Kratzer (203-C-97) (BBC Bayreuth), Johannes Menzel (BG 74 Gttingen), Jakob Merz (MTV Kronberg), Marvin Omuvwie (TuS Lichterfelde), Jan-Moritz Overdick (TV Langen), Lucien Schmikale (Oldenburger TB). Players on call are Elijah Edgehill (ALBA Berlin), Cedric Hartmann (Wuerzburg Baskets), Karim Jallow (FC Bayern Munich), Lucas Rumpf (BBLZ Gieen), Tibor Taras (Cologne 99ers).

Source: DBB


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  GREECE   


Kolossos adds Tsaldaris - by Chris Mammides

Dimitrios Tsaldaris (195-G/F-80) is officially VAP Kolossos Rodou player as he agreed financial terms with the islanders for one year. Tsaldaris had a solid season with Aris Thessalonikis where he ended the league with 8.2ppg, 2 rebounds and 2.7 assists per game. Kolossos is adding experience and points and Minas Gekos seems to be replacing very soon and quite sucesfully Angelos Tsamis (192-G-81) who ended up in Apollon Patras. The second player to sign in Kolossos is no other than the ex Panathinaikos player Alexis Kiritsis (198-G-82), the swingam has not signed his contract yet is a matter of days to do so.

Other A1 transfer news.
Giannis Dimakos (194-G-94) agreed financial terms with A.G.O Rethymno Aegean. At the same time the islanders from Crete have renewed the contract of the experience Akis Kallinikidis (197-F-77). Lastly, Giorgos Dedas (200-F-80) even though earlier this week was closed to sign with PAOK seems that some facts ahve changed and it could be the case that by the end of the week to be announced officialy by AGOR.
Gaios Skordilis (206-C-87) is close to sign with Olympiakos after Vasileios Kavvadas (205-F/C-91) decision (probably) to stay in Panionios for at least anotehr one season.

Other divisions news
AEK Athens agreed financial terms with Vaggelis Tzolos (190-G-91) (for two years) and Sakis Veskoukis (195-G-80) while Andronikos Gizogiannis (200-F/C-83) and Vaggelis Koukouravas (186-F-82) are ready to sign their contracts with AEK Athens


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  HOLLAND   


Netherlands hand second loss to Luxembourg - by Eurobasket News

Netherlands - Luxembourg 87:64

Dutch A2 National Team celebrated the second straight win over Luxembourg in test series. Craig Osaikhwuwuomwan (211-F-90) delivered 15 points to lead the winners.
Netherlands jumped to an early lead. They recorded a 23:20 lead after ten minutes. The margin grew in the second quarter. Netherlands recorded a 43:32 halftime lead. The Dutch side boosted the gap in the third term. They ensured a 14-point lead at the final intermission. Netherlands kept Luxembourg at bay throughout the final stanza and sealed the victory at the end. Kenrick Zondervan (206-F/C-85, agency: Court Side, college: Cent.Florida) scored 13 points, while Stefan Mladenovic (190-G-90, agency: Court Side) and Ewald Kloss had 12 points each for the winners. Tom Schumacher (190-G-87, college: Cal.Baptist) responded with 25 points for Luxembourg. Samy Picard (195-F-88) provided 14 points in the loss.

Netherlands: Craig Osaikhwuwuomwan 15, Kenrick Zondervan 13, Stefan Mladenovic 12, Ewald Kloss 12
Luxembourg: Tom Schumacher 25, Samy Picard 14


Holland toppled Bulgaria 97-84 - by Fred Roggen

Holland celebrated the first win at a friendly tournament in Chomutov, Czech Republic. Arvin Slagter (192-G-85, agency: Court Side) stepped up with 20 points to lead the winners. The teams traded baskets throughout the starting quarter. the Dutch squad had a slight advantage in the first quarter and earned a 26-24 lead after ten minutes. In the second quarter, Holland stretched the margin to 10 points midway through the second period and lead at halftime with 55-45.
In the third quarter Bulgaria narrow the gap a little, leaving a chance for a comeback. After 30 minutes, the Dutch led by 68-61. Bulgaria could not get closer than 6 points in the fourth frame and had to surrender at the end. Arvin Slagter paced all the winners with 20 points, while Worthy de Jong (194-SG-88, agency: R.H.Consultancy) collected 15 points and 9 rebounds.
Brandon Heath (193-G-84, college: San Diego St.) answered with 15 points for Bulgaria, Pavel Marinov (197-G-88, agency: Interperformances) posted 14 points in the loss.




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  ICELAND   


Helgi Magnusson sign with KR as player/coach - by Siggi Hjorleifsson

Helgi Magnusson (198-G/F-82, college: Catawba) has sign with his home Club KR as a player/coach for next two years
Magnusson played College ball at Catawba College (NCAA D-2) from 2002-2006. 2006-2007 he played for BC Boncourt in Switzerland, then for KR 2007-2009
2009-2010 he played for Solna Vikings in Sweden. 201-2011 for Uppsala basket and last season for 08 Stockholm also in Sweden
Magnusson is member of Icelandic National team.
His assistant coach will be former IR Head coach Gunnar Sverrisson


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  ITALY   


Dinamo Sassari extends deal with Anthony Binetti - by Eurobasket News

Dinamo Sassari announced signing of a 1-year contract extension with Anthony Binetti (186-G-83, college: Seattle Pacific). He will play only in EuroCup. The American/Italian point guard arrived to the club last summer from Prima Veroli. He got a chance in 11 SerieA games, but with very limited playing time. Binetti averaged less than a point. In 2010/11, the PG had 2.4 ppg and 1.4 rpg for Veroli in 34 LegaDue games. They won LegaDue Cup together. Anthony Binetti already played for Sassari in 2009/10 season. That year he had 6.1 ppg and 2.2 rpg in 43 games helping the club to win LegaDue Playoffs. At the same time they won the promotion for SerieA. In the past, Anthony Binetti played for Brindisi, Capo d'Orlando, Rosalia and Climamio Bologna. He has some experience from the Seattle Pacific University (NCAA2).


Jobey Thomas officially in Trieste - by Eurobasket News

Trieste strengthened their roster. They confirmed the signing of Jobey Thomas (194-G-80, college: Charlotte). The guard spent the last season with Benetton Treviso. He tallied 12.5 points and 2.3 rebounds per game in EuroCup. In SeriaA Jobey Thomas notched 10.3 points, 3.1 rebounds and 1.5 assists per appearance. Previously the guard had stints with Varese, Armani Jeans, Montegranaro, Carife Ferrara, Aget Imola and Queluz. Eurobasket.com named Jobey Thomas into Portuguese All-TMN 2nd Team in 2003. He also made it into All-Italian LegaDue 2nd Team in 2006. Jobey Thomas graduated from NC-Charlotte in 2002. The guard was named into All-Conference USA 1st Team in 2002.


Otis George inks with Capo d'Orlando - by Eurobasket News

Capo d'Orlando added another player to the roster. They agreed on terms of conract with Otis George (205-C-82, college: Louisville). The centre tipped off the previous season in D-League. The Dominican played for the Los Angeles D-Fenders. His stats read 7.6 points and 5.5 boards per game in D-League. Later he joined Caneros de La Romana in Dominican Republic. Previously Otis George had stints in South Korea, Italy and USBL. Eurobasket.com named the centre All-Italian LegaDue Defensive Player of the Year in 2008. He also made it into All-Italian LegaDue 2nd Team that season. Otis George was D-League finalist in 2012.


Steven Smith agreed terms with Virtus Bologna - by Eurobasket News

Steven Smith agreed terms with Virtus Bologna for the upcoming season. The player signed one year deal with the Italian team.
In 2011-2012 he played for Panathinaikos Athens (Greece-A1) and in Euroleague averaged 7.3ppg, 2.9rpg, FGP: 45.5%, 3PT: 43.5%, FT: 80.6%. In Greek League after 32 games his stats read 6.6ppg, 3.8rpg, FGP: 58.9%, 3PT: 39.0%, FT: 82.9%.
Last year the Greek champions agree financial terms with a great athlete and a very well known in the Greek fans, player. Steven Smith was the stand out in both seasons in the Greek championship with Kolossos Rodou (before his injury) and in Panellinios. A solid player, very coachable and with great basketball IQ. In 2010-2011 he played fro EWE Baskets Oldenburg (Germany-1.Bundesliga) and in German League averaged 8.5ppg, 4.8rpg, FGP: 38.6%, 3PT: 28.8%, FT: 59.1%. In EuroCup his stats read 2.5ppg, 2.0rpg, 1.0spg. Later in Dec.'10 moved to Panellinios Athens (Greece-A1, starting five) and in Greek League became the top-scorer with 16.7ppg, Reb-5 (7.7rpg), 1.5apg, FGP: 51.3%, 3PT: 33.8%, FT: 76.3%. In EuroCup his stats read 17.3ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.3spg, FGP: 48.9%, 3PT: 48.3%, FT: 78.3%.


Stefano Mancinelli to Fenerbahce just for Euroleague? - by Pervin Elgin

The Italian forward is still free agent

Stefano Mancinelli might move to Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul and play just in Euroleague. The Italian forward, captain of the National Team, is still free agent after his experience with Olimpia Milano.
TBL limits at 6 the number of foreigners and the same role (just in Euroleague) was offered to Kostas Vasileiadis from Bilbao. The Spanish team didn't let him leave so Fenerbahce turned its attention on Mancinelli who would work with Simone Pianigiani, coach of the National Team. Virtus Bologna would love to sign Stefano Mancinelli but they can't offer the amount of money Mancio is looking for.The news was reported by Gazzetta.it.

Courtesy of sportando.net


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  JAPAN   


Osaka Evessa tab Darnell Cox - by Eurobasket News

Osaka Evessa bolstered their frontcourt. They agreed on terms of contract with Cox Darnell (211-C-85, agency: Court Side, college: Miss.Valley St.). The centre recently played in China. He had a spell for Changan Group Guangdong. Cox Darnell averaged 16.6 points, 12.8 rebounds, 2.2 blocks and 1.6 steals per game in NBL. Previously Cox Darnell played for Champville, Cosmos de Tijuana, Cartersville Baseline Warriors, Kahraba Zouk. He was named All-Lebanese League Defensive Player of the Year in 2011. He also made it into All-Lebanese 2nd Team during the same season. He was Lebanese SuperCup winner. Cox Darnell was trumped SEBL Metro A-League North Division MVP in 2009. He also made it into All-WBA 1st Team in 2009.


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  KOSOVO   


Peja took Artin Gashi from Bashkimi - by Dren Shporta

Peja is getting prepared for the incoming season in Kosovan basketball. They have transferred the Bashkimi youngster, Artin Gashi (202-F-93), from the orange team of Prizren.

Artin Gashi plays as a forward and he has a characteristic of a great jump and great fighter on the box.

Peja didnt win anything last season, and is looking forward to create a team to challenge for the title and the cup for this 2012/13 season.



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  LITHUANIA   


Juventus tab Darrick Leonard - by Eurobasket News

Juventus continued to stay active on the market. They agreed on terms of contract with Darrick Leonard (188-G-84, college: Aurora). The guard spent the last season two seasons with Pieno Zvaigzdes. He tallied 3.1 points, 3.3 rebounds, 1.6 assists and 1.0 steal per game in Baltic League last season. In LKL Darrick Leonard posted 5.5 points and 2.3 rebounds per appearance. Eurobasket.com named Darrick Leonard All-Lithuanian NKL Import Player of the Year in 2011. He also made it into Lithuanian NKL All-Defensive Team in 2011. He celebrated NKL title with Pieno Zvaigzdes in 2011. Darrick Leonard played for Raseiniai and Vulturii Eagles before joining Pieno Zvaigzdes.
Juventus announced the signing of Nerijus Varnelis yesterday.


Lithuania U18 claim two victories over Poland - by Eurobasket News

Lithuanian U18 National Team celebrated back-to-back victories over their Polish counterparts in the preparation for the upcoming U18 European Championship.
The first game ended with Lithuania claiming 95:68 victory. Justas Tamulis (194-G-94) scored 21 points to lead the winners. Lithuania built a 49:38 halftime lead. The Baltic team boosted the margin in the third quarter. They enjoyed an 18-point buffer heading into the fourth frame and sealed the victory at the end. Mantvydas Staselis (190-G-94) netted 12 points, while Augustinas Jankaitis (204-F/C-94) and Marius Grigonis (198-F-94) added 11 points each for the winners.
Next game was once again a one-way traffic. Lithuania quickly jumped to a 29:12 lead. They posted a comfortable 56:29 halftime advantage. The gap grew at massive 34-point mark before the fourth frame. Poland never recovered suffering a 57:89 loss at the end. Lukas Lekavicius (180-PG-94) and Marius Grigonis finished with 13 points each for Lithuania. Jokubas Gintvainis (191-G/F-94) netted 11 points in the win.


Neptunas add David McClure - by Eurobasket News

Neptunas brought in import player. They inked contract with David McClure (200-F-86, college: Duke). The forward is actually coming back to Neptunas. He played for the team back in 2010/11 season. David McClure averaged 6.3 points, 5.3 rebounds and 2.0 assists per game in Baltic League then. Last season the forward spent with Kedainiai Triobet. His stats read 10.2 points, 7.0 rebounds and 1.5 assists in LKL. In Baltic League David McClure notched 10.8 points, 9.3 rebounds and 1.4 steals per appearance. Eurobasket.com named the forward All-Baltic League Player of the Year. He also earned All-LKL Honourable Mention. David McClure played in D-League before moving to Lithuania.


Planasa Navarra adds Vaidotas Volkus for the next season - by Eurobasket News

Another signing for Planasa Navarra. The very ambitious LEB Gold team brought in Vaidotas Volkus (202-F-85, college: Redlands CC). He played last season for Juventus-LKSK Utenos collecting 9 ppg and 3.3 rpg in 20 Lithuanian league games. The power forward has slightly better numbers for 17 Baltic league appearances. Before Juventus, Volkus spent year and a half with Panevezys Techasas. He had 11.3 ppg and 4.5 rpg for 19 LKL games in 2010/11. The player split 2009/10 season between Siauliai and Panevezys Techasas. That year he also spent some time with ABRO-Universitetas Siauliai. Vaidotas Volkus graduated at the University of Missouri four years ago. He transferred to Missouri in 2006, after two years with Redlands CC. Volkus played for Lithuanian U20 National Team in the past.


Neptunas brings in Vytautas Sarakauskas - by Eurobasket News

Neptunas added another player for the upcoming season. According to Krepsinis.net, Their new member is Vytautas Sarakauskas (204-C-82). The 30-year-old Lithuanian will be used at position 5. Sarakauskas arrives to the club from Siauliai, where he spent last three seasons. In the latest one the center had 7 ppg and 5 rpg for 21 LKL games. He registered slightly lower numbers for 12 Baltic league games. Sarakauskas got injured late in November and retuned to the court at the beginning of March. In 2011, the player was named to Eurobasket.com All-Baltic League 2nd Team. In LKL, he was awarded with Lithuanian LKL Honorable Mention -11. Before Siauliai, Vytautas Sarakauskas played for Sakalai Vilnius. He also has experience from SSK-Perlas Vilnius. In 2007, Sarakauskas was named Eurobasket All-Lithuanian LKL Newcomer of the Year.


Lithuanian U18 National Team 2012 - by Greg

Lithuanian U18 National Team 2012
#s#
Tomas Galeckas
Galeckas
Justas Tamulis
Tamulis
Simas Raupys
Raupys
Jokubas Gintvainis
Gintvainis
Lukas Lekavicius
Lekavicius
#e#5
4 Tomas Galeckas 176-PG-94 Statyba Lithuania
5 Justas Tamulis 194-SF-94 Zalgiris-Sabonio Lithuania
6 Simas Raupys 195-SF-94 Zalgiris-Sabonio 2 Lithuania
7 Jokubas Gintvainis 191-SF-94 Sakalai Lithuania
8 Lukas Lekavicius 180-G-94 Zalgiris-Sabonio 2 Lithuania
9 Denisas Krestininas 202-F-94 Lietuvos rytas Lithuania
10 Mantvydas Staselis 190-G/F-94 Zalgiris-Sabonio 2 Lithuania
11 Augustinas Jankaitis 202-F/C-94 Lietuvos rytas Lithuania
12 Rokas Gustys 204-C-94 Zalgiris-Sabonio 2 Lithuania
13 Marius Grigonis 198-F-94 Zalgiris-Sabonio Lithuania
14 Tautvydas Jodelis 194-SF-94 Lietuvos rytas Lithuania
15 Benas Griciunas 200-SF-94 High School USA

Arunas Visockas Head Coach Zalgiris-Sabonio 2 Lithuania
Dalius Lubys Assistant Zalgiris-Sabonio Lithuania



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  LUXEMBOURG   


Netherlands hand second loss to Luxembourg - by Eurobasket News

Netherlands - Luxembourg 87:64

Dutch A2 National Team celebrated the second straight win over Luxembourg in test series. Craig Osaikhwuwuomwan (211-F-90) delivered 15 points to lead the winners.
Netherlands jumped to an early lead. They recorded a 23:20 lead after ten minutes. The margin grew in the second quarter. Netherlands recorded a 43:32 halftime lead. The Dutch side boosted the gap in the third term. They ensured a 14-point lead at the final intermission. Netherlands kept Luxembourg at bay throughout the final stanza and sealed the victory at the end. Kenrick Zondervan (206-F/C-85, agency: Court Side, college: Cent.Florida) scored 13 points, while Stefan Mladenovic (190-G-90, agency: Court Side) and Ewald Kloss had 12 points each for the winners. Tom Schumacher (190-G-87, college: Cal.Baptist) responded with 25 points for Luxembourg. Samy Picard (195-F-88) provided 14 points in the loss.

Netherlands: Craig Osaikhwuwuomwan 15, Kenrick Zondervan 13, Stefan Mladenovic 12, Ewald Kloss 12
Luxembourg: Tom Schumacher 25, Samy Picard 14


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  MALTA   


Partizan brings in 223-cm C Samuel Deguara for try-out - by Eurobasket News

Samuel Deguara (223-C-91) will spent next few weeks with Partizan Belgrade. The Serbian powerhouse brought in 223-cm center for try-out. He played last season for Italian Nazionale A team Chimica D'Agostino Bari. The Maltese big guy was sent on loan from Benetton Treviso. He had 4.8 ppg and 4.9 rpg in 34 games with Bari. Deguara arrived to Benetton as 16-year old player. He mostly played for their junior team. Deguara participated at Imola Summer League recently.
Yesterday Partizan Belgrade started with preparations for the next season. They will test Deguara in few friendly games.


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  MONTENEGRO   


Buducnost: Dino Butorac on try-out - by Darko Pekic

The young Croatian guard Dino Butorac (192-G-90) will try to make the team and impress the head coach of Buducnost Dejan Radonjic (agency: Beo Basket ) during a 6 day preparation period in Bar. The former memeber of U19 and U20 National Teams of Croatia played last season in Siroki Brijeg and averaged 3.7ppg and 1.2rpg in Adriatic league.

Buducnost has already signed four players for the upcoming season and they are looking to rebuild the team. Besides Butorac, during the testing period in Bar some other players from Podgorica area will fight for a spot in Buducnost 2012/2013 squad.


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  NBA   


Luol Deng feels fine after Britain blows out China, 90-58 - by Eurobasket News

Luol Deng (6'9''-F-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Duke) finished Britain's first Olympic basketball victory since 1948 on the bench, a symbolic event with ramifications on both sides of the pond.

With the British 90-58 trouncing of China in its final game, Deng's role as ambassador for basketball to his adopted country, the one that offered his family political asylum from Sudan, could be complete.

Now his preparations to start Bulls' training camp on time begin in earnest.

In his strongest implication yet that he either will forego surgery on the torn ligament in his left wrist altogether or postpone it until after the 2012-13 season, Deng said he planned to start camp on time.

"Did I look like I needed (surgery)?" Deng said Monday evening. "I'm fine right now. I feel great. There are a lot of things I want to improve in my game that I want to focus on now. I want to be a better player than I was last year.

"I have time to make decisions and be healthy by the time we start (training camp)."

With Bulls' camp roughly two months away, it'd be impossible for Deng to have surgery now and be ready for its start. He has told friends and associates he plans to avoid surgery. And coach Tom Thibodeau said last month he is under that impression as well.

"I'm just going to get ready for the season," Deng said.

Deng, who has carried the torch for this country's fledgling program, also wouldn't commit to further national team participation. That led to speculation that if he needs surgery at all, it would happen next summer. The same doctor who surgically repaired a torn ligament in Deng's right wrist that cut short his rookie season has told him this injury might not require surgery, sources said.

Deng missed his first five shots Monday and didn't score until a fast-break layup with 5:13 left in the third. Playing point forward often, he finished 3-for-11 for six points with four assists and three rebounds.

Through the Olympics, Deng averaged 15.8 points, 6.6 rebounds and 4.6 assists in five games, shooting 31.4 percent.

"If the Olympics were next month, I'd play again," Deng said. "This is something no one will ever take away. I'm always going to remember this moment, walking out for the opening ceremonies and playing with guys I played with my whole life. Seeing my parents out there and (youth coach) Jimmy (Rogers), I can't explain it. It's one of those stories, if I missed the Olympics, I'd always think about that."

Indeed, Deng wore a broad smile as he linked arms with teammates as "God Save the Queen" played to a full stadium in full throat. And he deflected questions about his subpar play to broader issues.

"I believe basketball is going to grow in this country," he said. "It would've been easy for me to say I don't want to play. But I feel I made the right decision. A lot of kids saw me play.

"It's very similar to being at the All-Star Game and taking out my (Africa) T-shirt. A lot of people would disagree with it, but I know it's the right decision."

That gesture got Deng fined by the NBA. This time, with his Olympic commitment complete, Deng will get some payback by being fine for NBA action.

Courtesy of www.chicagotribune.com


Lin-SANE - by Alex Yam

This summer was as much about Jeremy Lin as it was any other player including a certain someone in Orlando, from Lin's battle to keep his bird rights with the league, to the tussle and eventual departure from New York, and landing on Yao's former team, the Houston Rockets. The way in which led Lin to leave NY, has tarnished Lin's squeaky clean religious image, sort of.

New York has as much to do with Lin, becoming "Linsanity"as Lin does, in a market 2nd to none when it comes to media and global superiority, it bred an overnight sensation. Sure Lin took advantage of Mike D'Antoni's inabilities to execute as a head coach, and caught the other teams by surprise, but NY allowed him to flourish and play his way on the court, masked his obvious flaws, his suspect left hand, inability to defend, a marginal, at best shooter, and his incredibly high turnover rate. No one ever mentions that during his incredible offensive run, he was also among the league leaders in turnovers, but I guess dropping 38 and 14 on the Lakers in prime time, can hide that.

Leaving NY may ultimately prove to be a mistake, as Houston will surround Lin with virtually all rookies and 2nd year players with the exception of Kevin Martin, who much like Lin needs the ball in his hands to contribute. Clearly Carmelo Anthony and Jeremy Lin were never going to co-exist together, that much was obvious.


Knicks interested in Donte Greene? - by Eurobasket News

Donte Greene (6'9''-F-88, college: Syracuse) says he is on the Knicks' radar.

The former Sacramento Kings forward and current free agent said in a recent radio interview that the Knicks are among three teams who have expressed interest in signing him.

Greene told TheCDNetworks.com, a Sacramento internet radio show, that he is in talks with Chicago, New York and Indiana. He called the trio his "top three" possible free-agent destinations.

"Anybody could pop up at any time," Greene told the radio show on Friday. "But those are the three that we're focusing on and trying to work out and get a deal done."

Greene, a 2008 first-round pick, has averaged 6.1 points, 2.4 rebounds and 0.7 assists in 16.8 minutes per game over a four-year career.

The Kings declined to offer Greene a $2.5 million qualifying offer this summer, making him an unrestricted free agent.

Greene has had an up-and-down NBA career. He has a career field goal percentage of 40.6 percent, and has made just 30.4 percent of his 3-point attempts.

Reports out of Sacramento indicate that the 6-foot-11 Greene was never able to perform on defense the way his coaches had hoped.

According to Jason Jones of the Sacramento Bee, Greene also relied too heavily on the 3-point shot instead of attacking the rim, to the dismay of the Kings' staff.

The Knicks have had recent success with tall forwards who can knock down the outside shot (see Williams, Shawne and Novak, Steve), but Greene hasn't shown that he can do that. And furthermore, the role of reserve perimeter shooter is already filled by Novak.

In addition, Greene's lack of success on the defensive end, on the surface, would seem to make him less attractive to Mike Woodson & Co.

That being said, many believe the Knicks will add a reserve forward before Opening Night.

They have 13 guaranteed contracts, and in theory can add two more to get to the maximum roster allotment of 15.

Courtesy of ESPN


Wizards not worried about Nene injury - by Eurobasket News

Hilario Nene (6'10''-C-82) sat out the final game of pool play for Brazil on Monday with soreness in his left foot, but the Wizards have been monitoring the injury and remain optimistic that it will not be a problem when training camp begins on Oct. 2, according to a source with knowledge of the teams thinking.

Nene is expected to be available on Wednesday when Brazil (4-1) plays Argentina in the quarterfinals. Brazilian Coach Ruben Magnano rested Nene against Spain, but his team still won, 88-82, in a game that it didnt need to win and possibly set up a more difficult path for a medal. Brazil is seeking its first Olympic medal since 1964.

Magnano led his native Argentina to the gold medal in 2004 and Brazil, which finished second in Pool B behind Russia, is in the same bracket as heavily-favored Team USA. A loss wouldve put Brazil in a quarterfinal matchup against France and Nenes Wizards teammate, Kevin Seraphin, and possibly Russia in the semifinals.

After playing his first game in London, Nene said the plantar fasciitis that bothered him shortly after he joined the Wizards at the trade deadline had flared up again. With the Olympics concluding on Sunday, the Wizards expect Nene to have ample time to rest and be ready for the upcoming season. Nene missed 10 consecutive games with the foot problem in April but returned to play the final five games, all Wizards victories.

Nene has averaged just 6.5 points and 7.0 rebounds in four games for Brazil, which features several current and former NBA players, including as Anderson Varejao, Tiago Splitter, Leandro Barbosa and Alex Garcia.

Seraphin and France will play Spain on Wednesday, setting up a rematch of the European championship, which Spain won last summer. Seraphin is averaging 6.8 points on 55.2 percent shooting and 3.8 rebounds for France.

France (4-1) finished second to Team USA in Group A and features Tony Parker, Nicolas Batum, Boris Diaw and former Wizard Ronny Turiaf, who started the first four games at center before sitting out a 79-73 win on Monday over Nigeria. Seraphin scored nine points starting in place of Turiaf and reached 10 points in two other games for France.

Courtesy of www.washingtonpost.com


Przybilla agrees to deal with Bucks - by Eurobasket News

Veteran center Joel Przybilla (7'1''-C-79, college: Minnesota) has agreed to a one-year deal with the Bucks, a league source confirmed on Monday night.

Przybilla had discussions about joining the Bucks last season but eventually signed with the Portland Trail Blazers. He was an unrestricted free agent this summer.

The 7-foot-1 Przybilla is expected to serve as a backup to Samuel Dalembert.

The 32-year-old Przybilla started his NBA career in Milwaukee after being obtained in a 2000 draft night trade with the Houston Rockets.

He played three-plus seasons with the Bucks and moved on to play with Atlanta, Portland and Charlotte.

Przybilla played in 27 games with Portland last season, including 19 starts, and averaged 2.0 points and 5.1 rebounds. Other teams had interest in the veteran, including Portland and the Dallas Mavericks.

The Bucks now have 14 players on their roster with one spot remaining. It's likely the team will seek to sign a shooting guard/small forward for the final roster spot.

Courtesy of The Journal Sentinel


J.R. Smith: Knicks can win this season's NBA title - by Eurobasket News

The New York Knicks have the potential to win the NBA championship next season, shooting guard J.R. Smith (6'6''-G-85) has boldly proclaimed.

"Right now with the talent we have, what it says on paper is championship all day. But it's a matter of us going out there and doing it," Smith told ESPN New York after at a Nike promotional event in Harlem where children were given sneakers.

he Knicks offseason didnt exactly play to rave reviews in New York. They missed out on star point guard Steve Nash, after reportedly being on the goal line for a sign-and-trade with the Phoenix Suns. Then, they decided not to match the Houston Rockets offer to Jeremy Lin. Additionally, Landry Fields walked and signed with the Toronto Raptors.

New York did add Jason Kiddwho was subsequently arrested for DWIas well as Marcus Camby, Raymond Felton and Ronnie Brewer Jr., and re-signed stretch power forward Steve Novak and Smith.

Smith, for one, likes the moves the Knicks made this summer and believes they have the personnel to "compete with anybody.

"It's just a matter of us being smart with our talents and making the right plays," Smith said, per ESPN.

The Knicks also added Smiths brother, Chris, a move J.R. is understandably excited about, although the younger Smith isn't t necessarily assured of a roster spot.

"He plays defense like (Iman Shumpert)," Smith, per ESPN, said of Chris. " ... It really helps our roster because Shump's going to be out until January or February and we need that third or fourth wing coming off the bench to do the dirty work. It kind of works out perfectly for us. It's not a big-time salary so that's even better."

Courtesy of http://aol.sportingnews.com


Rebuilding Jazz to shuffle front office - by Eurobasket News

The Utah Jazz have called a Tuesday morning news conference to announce a front-office change.

Yahoo! Sports reported on Monday that longtime general manager Kevin O'Connor is being promoted in his executive role and being replaced in day-to-day duties by San Antonio Spurs assistant GM Dennis Lindsey.

O'Connor is a New York native who has led Jazz basketball operations since 1999. He orchestrated the 2011 trade that sent star point guard Deron Williams to the Nets rather than deal with his impending free agency.

Lindsey joined the Spurs in 2007.

O'Connor and Lindsey did not return calls by The Associated Press.

The Jazz have been to the postseason nine times while O'Connor was in charge. They were swept out of the playoffs by the Spurs in the first round this year.

Courtesy of ESPN


OKC Thunder: Scott Brooks will grow with his team - by Eurobasket News

He owns a .582 winning percentage, a Coach of the Year award and has captained his team to the NBA Finals.

Yet Scott Brooks will be the first to tell you he needs to improve.

My job is to get better, the Oklahoma City Thunder coach said shortly after signing a four-year contract extension last month. I'm not going to stand up here and say that I'm great. I feel like I have a lot of room to improve.

At this point, the continued improvement of the defending Western Conference champions is largely dependent on Brooks' progression.

For the Thunder, in-house development always has trumped blockbuster trades and mega free-agent signings. This offseason has been no different.

Over the past two months, OKC has substituted veterans Derek Fisher, Nazr Mohammed and Royal Ivey with Perry Jones III, Hasheem Thabeet and Hollis Thompson. All of the newcomers are younger, cheaper players who don't figure to be in next year's rotation.

That puts the pressure of next season squarely on the returning players and the man in charge of leading them.

For his part, Brooks says he's committed to using this summer to become a better coach.

How?

I think you get better by a few areas, Brooks said. You have to continue to watch film and develop your game that way and also be critical on what you've done in the past and try to improve on it. Also, talk to coaches. I love spending time with coaches, whether it's high school coaches, junior college coaches or college coaches, or other NBA coaches. I think that when you're around (other coaches) you spark things and you brainstorm and you can improve.

Thus far, on-the job training has benefited Brooks most. In his third full season last year, Brooks enjoyed his best season on the bench. His improvement showed both on the court and in the win column.

The Thunder's .712 winning percentage was good for fourth highest in franchise history and was the best clip since the 1997-98 Sonics. Brooks also displayed growth with Xs and Os, becoming a better play-caller in late-game situations, out of timeouts and on out-of-bound plays. The half-court offense began to produce productive sets as well, as Brooks got better at putting more players namely James Harden in better positions to succeed.

You have to get better, Brooks said. You can't stay in this position and not keep improving and our players are the same way. We have to all get better, and we've done that together for the last four years.

The offense, while highly efficient last year, still was prone to periods of chaos, and a more structured system could alleviate some of the scoring issues we witnessed too often last season. But it'll be up to Brooks to find the right balance so that one of the league's most dynamic offensive teams doesn't get strangled by a suffocating system. Brooks' substitution patterns also remained questionable in 2011-12, and how flexible he is with his rotation could again be a determining factor in how far the team makes it next year.

But, all in all, Brooks has grown nicely alongside his talented young core. It's been a strong recipe for success to this point, and with continued improvement the Thunder's future looks awfully bright.

Who can wait to see what happens next?

I have a great opportunity ahead of me, Brooks said, and I'm not going to just rest because we had some success this past season.

Courtesy of http://newsok.com


Sacramento Kings extend contract of coach Keith Smart - by Eurobasket News

The Sacramento Kings extended the contract of Head Coach Keith Smart for the 2013-14 season, it was announced by Kings President of Basketball Operations Geoff Petrie.

Keiths extension gives us the stability we need to continue the development of our team, Petrie said. He has the commitment, energy and vision necessary to succeed in building a winning team. We are all looking forward to working with him as we pursue an exciting and productive future.

According to Jason Jone of the Sacramento Bee, Smart took over as coach after Paul Westphal was fired Jan. 5 amid a feud with center DeMarcus Cousins and other players openly questioned his direction. Even though Smart won over players and improved the team offensively by starting Isaiah Thomas at point guard and moving Tyreke Evans to the wing, the Kings went 20-39 after he was promoted from assistant coach and missed the playoffs for the sixth straight season. Smart has said his focus for this season is to improve one of the NBAs worst defenses while emphasizing a fast-paced offense that shares the ball.

Smart was named Sacramentos head coach on January 5, 2012, becoming the franchises 24th head coach. In his first season with the Kings, Smart compiled a 20-39 coaching mark. He has a lifetime record of 65-116 (.359) in three seasons with the Sacramento Kings (2011-12), Golden State Warriors (2010-11), and Cleveland Cavaliers (2002-03).

Im excited to continue this process with the Kings, Smart said. Were trying to get our franchise moving in the right direction. The goal is to keep moving in that positive direction, and Im glad that I get that opportunity. Its been great working with Geoff and his staff and communicating with the Maloofs in this process.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com


Pacers: Granger believes theyre the second best team in the East - by Eurobasket News

Danny Granger (6'8''-F-83, agency: Priority Sports, college: N.Mexico) hosted his basketball camp at Park Tudor High School for the fourth straight year over the weekend. He was only in attendance for one of the two days because of a personal family issue he had to deal with in Los Angeles.

Like everybody else in the Pacers organization, Granger is eager for the season to start after they were eliminated by Miami in six games in the second round of the playoffs last season.

Still not over it, Granger said laughing about losing to the Heat. Im over it. It happens. They were the better team. I think they deserved to win the championship. Thats the way it goes. We have to get better.

The Eastern Conference will be better next season.

Brooklyn, Boston, New York and the Pacers are expected to be in the mix for seeds 2-4 in the East.

Granger believes theyve got the second best team in the conference behind the Heat.

Its going to be tough, he said. Brooklyn, they are going to be a threat. Obviously Miami is going to be there, but I think we still view ourselves as a top-2 team in the East.

The battle for the seeds 2-4 will likely be determined by which team can stay the healthiest. The Pacers were a relatively healthy team last season.

I agree with Granger in that the Central Division is theirs to lose because of the uncertainty of when point guard Derrick Rose will return from his knee surgery up in Chicago.

I think were in the drivers seat coming off the success we had last year, Granger said. We just have to go out and win the division.

The key for the Pacers (other than staying healthy) is to avoid complacency after they reached the second round of the playoffs for the first time since 2006. The players and coaching staff are getting together later this month in Los Angeles for a workout and bonding experience.

I think were still hungry, Granger said. When you have that drive you dont become complacent. We had a good year, but we really didnt accomplish anything yet. So, we all still realize that and were a veteran team and we know we have a long ways to go.

Courtesy of http://blogs.indystar.com


*****************************************************
  NBLCANADA   


Play pro basketball in Canada !!! - by Eurobasket

The National Basketball League of Canada is back after a successful first season. Play in state of the art arenas, in front of a great fan base, all while being overseas yet still close to home!
The National Basketball League of Canada and the ACTS Athlete Institute will host an exclusive Draft Combine that will be held August 25th & 26th, 2012. This event will provide NBL Canada prospects the opportunity to demonstrate their skills to team coaches, general managers, and owners with ambitions to be selected in the 2012 NBL Canada Draft.
The National Basketball of Canada Draft Combine will feature:
- 5 Hours of Live Gameplay
- 2 Hours of Skill Evaluation
- Player Measurements and Registration
- On-Site Lunch
- Private GM/Owner/Coaching Viewing Area

To register visit www.nblcanada.ca


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


Doctors pleased after Calhoun hip surgery; recovery could last 8-12 weeks - by Eurobasket News

Connecticut coach Jim Calhoun's hip fracture could be a factor at the start of his 41st season on the bench, but likely wouldn't prevent him from a return to coaching, a prominent orthopedic surgeon said Monday.

Calhoun was recovering Monday at the UConn Health Center after undergoing surgery Saturday for a left hip fracture sustained in a fall during a bicycle ride near his beach home in Madison.

"Nothing has changed really," Calhoun told ajerseyguy.com on Monday when asked if the injury had changed his long-term plans. "I'm just going to go about my business."

UConn spokesman Phil Chardis said in an email on Monday that doctors were very pleased with how the surgery went, and noted that the surgery involved a repair, not a hip replacement.

Dr. Stephen Hunt, an orthopedic surgeon at Atlantic Sports Health at Morristown Medical Center in N.J., wasn't involved in the operation. But Hunt said Monday that it typically takes about 8 to 12 weeks for the bone in a hip repair to heal.

"It might impact the start of this season," Hunt said. "That's three months. That gives him adequate time to heal, but he may have some residual symptoms, some weakness or a little discomfort that persists in October."

He said a doctor often will use a screw and plate or a metal rod known as an intramedullary nail to repair the fracture. The timetable for a full recovery will depend on a number of factors, including the patient's attitude and rehabilitation efforts, he said.

"The more you can persevere through some pain and discomfort and start walking, putting weight on that leg to encourage healing and get back into a normal routine, then the quicker the return to normalcy is," he said.

The school has said Calhoun is expected to be released from the hospital in the next few days, something Hunt said would be typical for this type of procedure.

The 70-year-old Hall-of-Fame coach went down Saturday afternoon after his bike hit a patch of sand.

"He hit some sand and he has those shoes that are tied in, clip-ons," associate head coach George Blaney said Saturday.

It was the latest in a series of health problems for Calhoun, who broke several ribs in an accident during a charity bicycle ride in 2009.

"It's always something," Calhoun told ajerseyguy.com. "My brother and my wife say they are taking my bike away."'

Calhoun also is a three-time cancer survivor, overcoming prostate cancer in 2003 and skin cancer twice, most recently in 2008. He has missed 29 games over his 40-year career because of various medical conditions and had to leave another 11 games for medical reasons.

Calhoun missed eight games last season because of the effects of spinal stenosis, a narrowing of the spine, normally associated with aging and sometimes with arthritis, which led to surgery to have a disk fragment removed from his spine.

He returned to the sideline just five days after that operation.

Hunt said the stenosis could affect Calhoun's rehabilitation efforts from the hip injury. But he said the injury itself is not something that is typically career-threatening.

Calhoun is 873-380 in 40 seasons as a head coach and has led Connecticut to three NCAA titles. He has said he will announce before the start of fall practice whether he will return for a 27th season at UConn.

His accident happened just hours before his biennial charity game involving 36 of his former players.

Former UConn star Chris Smith, the school's career leading scorer, said Saturday that even with the health issues, he would be surprised to see the coach retire.

"I really can't see it," Smith said Saturday. "He is the program. Guys come to UConn because of Jim Calhoun ."

Houston Rockets first-round pick Jeremy Lamb also said he expects Calhoun will return, but hopes he takes some time after the injury to consider what is important in his life.

"I know he's going to fight," Lamb said Saturday. "But I don't know if it will make him want to coach more or retire more. I just know Coach is a tough guy, a real strong man, and he's going to do what's best for him and his family."

Courtesy of www.cbssports.com


Stover dismissed from UCLA basketball team - by Eurobasket News

Redshirt junior center Anthony Stover (6'10''-C-90) has been dismissed from the UCLA basketball team for failure to meet NCAA eligibility requirements.

The move, which is effective immediately, was announced Monday by Bruins coach Ben Howland.

The 6-foot-10 Stover, from Pasadena, Calif., appeared in 28 games, starting three, for UCLA in the 2011-12 season. He averaged 0.5 points and 1.5 rebounds per game, and his 39 blocked shots led the team.

UCLA opens the 2012-13 season on Nov. 9 against Indiana State in New Pauley Pavilion.

Courtesy of www.sacbee.com


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


Polish U18 National Team 2012 - by Greg

Polish U18 National Team 2012
#s#
Pawel Dzierzak
Dzierzak
Jakub Schenk
Schenk
Dawid Morawiec
Morawiec
Filip Struski
Struski
Jakub Garbacz
Garbacz
#e#5
4 Pawel Dzierzak 185-PG-93 Trefl II Sopot Poland
5 Jakub Schenk 184-PG-94 Trefl II Sopot Poland
6 Dawid Morawiec 186-PG-94 LKS Lodz Poland
7 Filip Struski 202-F-94 GTK Gdynia Poland
8 Jakub Garbacz 196-SF-94 Rosa Radom Poland
9 Filip Nowicki 206-C-94 AZS PW Poland
10 Mikolaj Witlinski 206-PF-95 Rosa Radom Poland
11 Kacper Radwanski 194-G/F-94 Polpharma Poland
12 Stanferd Sanny 186-SG-94 GTK Gliwice Poland
13 Kacper Borowski 204-C-94 SMS PZKosz Poland
14 Jakub Patoka 200-SF-94 Siarka Jezioro Poland
15 Damian Jeszke 200-PF-95 Chelmno Poland

Marcin Lichtanski Head Coach Trefl II Sopot Poland
Jaroslaw Zawadka Assistant Astoria Bydg. Poland
Karol Gryko Assistant



PLK announce 12 participating teams for 2012/13 season - by Eurobasket News

PLK announced today the names of 12 teams that would participate in 2012/13 season. They restored the licence of Trefl Sopot and Kotwica Kolobrzeg after their appeals. So now the participating teams are: Asseco Prokom, Trefl Sopot, Zielona Gora, Turow Zgorzelec, Anwil Wloclawek, Energa Czarni, AZS Koszalin, Kotwica Kolobrzeg, Jezioro Tarnobrzeg, Polpharma Starogard, Start Gdynia and Rosa Radom. Slask Wroclaw did not appeal for the participation and would not take part at the championship. PLK will soon announce the schedule for the upcoming season.


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


CSU Asesoft Ploiesti keep Movileanu, Negoitescu, Dumitrescu and Lupusoara - by Eurobasket News

CSU Asesoft Ploiesti Adrian Movileanu (195-F-93), Vlad Negoitescu (204-C-91), Vlad Dumitrescu (190-G-90), Andrei Lupusoara (92), Andrei Ene and Stefan Ianuli for the upcoming season.
Adrian Movileanu averaged 3.0 points per game last season. He joined the team in 2010.
Vlad Negoitescu had 2.0ppg, 1.8rpg last season. He played also at CSS Asesoft Ploiesti II (Division B, starting five) and averaged 16.4ppg, 6.2rpg, 1.2apg, 1.6spg, 1.4bpg, 2FGP: 56.4%, 3PT: 35.0%, FT: 70.8%.
Andrei Lupusoara played for CSU Asesoft Ploiesti junior team and also at CSS Asesoft Ploiesti II (Division B, starting five). His stats read 3.8ppg, 2.3rpg, 1.3spg.
Andrei Ene started the season 2011-2012 for Col. Aurel Vlaicu Bucuresti (Div.B), then moved to CSS Asesoft Ploiesti II (Division B).
Stefan Ianuli is a new player for the upcoming season.


Vlad Dogaru signs with BC Miercurea Ciuc - by Eurobasket News

Vlad Dogaru (184-G-85) signs with BC Miercurea Ciuc for the following season. The Romanian Guard comes from CSU Asesoft Ploiesti.
In 2006-2007 he joined CSU Asesoft Ploiesti (Div.A) and stayed with the team for the whole time. In 2007-2008: BC Targoviste Bucuresti (Div.A) his stats read 0.6ppg, while in 2008-2009 he showed 0.8ppg.
Later in 2011-2012 he improved to 1.1ppg, played also at CSS Asesoft Ploiesti II (Division B, starting five). There his stats read 10.7ppg, 3.0rpg, 6.2apg, 3.5spg, 2FGP: 60.5%, 3PT: 18.2%, FT: 50.0%.
For his Awards/Achievements it is a must to mention that Vlad Dogaru was Romanian Cup Winner -07, 08, 09 and Romanian League Regular Season Champion -07, 09, 11. Moreover he became Romanian League Champion -07, 09, 12 and reached Romanian Cup Semifinals -10. In 2011 he was Romanian League Finalist.


Energia Rovinari signs Flavius Lapuste - by Eurobasket News

Energia Rovinari reinforced its roster for the next season. The team signed a 1-year deal with Flavius Lapuste (202-F-78). He arrives to the club from Targu Mures. Lapuste played two years for Targu Mures averaging 6 points and 3.2 rebounds for 31 games last season. He had better numbers in 2010/11. That season Targu Mures also competed in Balkan League, where Lapuste had 8 ppg and 2.3 rpg. From 2004 to 2010, Flavius Lapuste played for Cluj. They reached Romanian league Finals three times. In 2003, Lapuste played in the Finals also with West Petrom Arad. In the past, the forward played for German Chemnitz and Austrian Furstenfeld.


U Mobitelco Cluj Napoca signs Croatian PG Vedran Nakic - by Eurobasket News

Vedran Nakic (184-PG-89) will continue his career in Romania. The 23-year-old Croatian point guard signed a deal with former champions U Mobitelco Cluj Napoca. Nakic heads to Cluj from Minsk-2006, where he spent last season. He split it between their first and second team. With Minsk first team Nakic had 7 ppg, 2.2 rpg and 3 apg for 13 Belarusian league games. He moved to Minsk II in January adding 10.4 ppg, 2.1 rpg and 1.9 apg for 19 games. Nakic participated at the All-Star Game. Before Minsk, Vedran Nakic split 2010/11 season between Dubrava and Brotnjo Ciluk. With the Bosnian squad he had 5.9 ppg and 1.9 apg for 7 games. In the past, the PG played for Samobor, Zabok and Zagreb. He also has experience from the Slovenian team Postojna.


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


Spartak Saint Petersburg extend Vasili Zavoruev - by Eurobasket News

Vasili Zavoruev (197-G-87, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav) stays with Spartak Saint Petersburg. The guard has agreed on terms of contract extension. The new deal is meant for two seasons. Vasili Zavoruev joined Spartak Saint Petersburg at the start of the previous season. He notched 1.5 points per EuroCup game. In VTB League Vasili Zavoruev tallied 5.7 points and 1.1 rebounds per appearance. The guard also delivered 3.8 points per game in Russian League. Previously Vasili Zavoruev had stints with Dynamo Moscow, AEL Limassol, Standart Samara, BC Kyiv and CSKA Moscow. Eurobasket.com named the guard All-Russian A Superleague Newcomer of the Year in 2006. He was the member of U16, U18 and U20 Russian National Teams.


Enisey Krasnoyarsk inks Travis Watson - by Eurobasket News

Enisey Krasnoyarsk continues with signings for the next season. Their latest addition is Travis Watson (203-F/C-81, college: Virginia). The American big guy missed last season due to personal reasons. From 2009 to 2011 he played for Zalgiris Kaunas. Watson appeared 15 times in Euroleague averaging 6.6 points and 4.7 rebounds in their second year together. He had 9.2 ppg and 6.9 rpg in VTB United league, plus 6.1 ppg and 4.3 rpg in 24 LKL games. They won three trophies in 2011 (LKL, Baltic league and Lithuanian Cup). In 2010, Zalgiris also was Baltic league champion. Before Zalgiris, Travis Watson spent one year with Hapoel Migdal Jerusalem. From 2006 to 2008 he was a member of Armani Jeans Milano. Watson also has experience from Climamio Bologna and Panionios Athens.


Enisey bring in Andrey Kuzemkin - by Eurobasket News

Enisey secured the services of Andrey Kuzemkin (183-PG-87). The guard signed a one-year deal with the Krasnoyarsk team. Last season Andrey Kuzemkin spent with Severstal Cherepovec. He tallied 9.3 points, 2.3 boards, 1.8 assists and 1.2 steals per game in Superleague. Previously Andrey Kuzemkin played for Sibiritelekom-Lokomotiv Novosibirsk.


*****************************************************
  SEBL   

Standings

SEBL Standings
Metro A-League North Division
1. Marietta O. 7-1
2. Marietta Fbr. 7-1
3. TN Temple 5-3
4. Skyline 5-3
5. Summer Hill 4-4
6. Baseline 3-5
7. Gwinnett E. 1-7
8. BC Howren 0-8
City B-League North Division
1. Dalton W. 8-0
2. Cartersville T. 6-2
3. Polk County 5-3
4. Columbus S. 4-4
5. Cedartown B. 1-7
6. Bartow B. 0-8
Metro A-League South Division
1. Black Monop. 4-1
2. ABC 4-1
3. Tri-County 4-2
4. Strictly Bus 4-3
5. Da Fellaz 3-2
6. BC Lakers 2-4
7. Reep 3 2-4
8. School Boys 2-4
9. Phoenix 1-5


Metro A-League-First Round Playoff Results - by Marcus Tate

Metro A-League-First Round Playoff Results

Skyline defeats Summer Hill 67-53
Baseline defeats TN Temple 58-48
Fastbreak defeats Gwinnett Elite 96-53
Marietta Outlaw defeats BC Howren 90-65

Tonights City Conference B-League Schedule
8:30pm Bartow Braves (6) v. Polk County Boys (3)
9:30pm Cedartown (5) v. Columbus Storm (4)

North and South Final Four Games will take place this Saturday beginning at 4pm.


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


Gorjan Radonjic returns to France - by Eurobasket News

Gorjan Radonjic (199-F-81) is back to France after one year. The Serbian forward penned a 1-season deal with Hyeres-Toulon. He arrives to the club from Kecskemeti, where he finished 2011/12. He joined them in December averaging 8.3 points and 4.3 rebounds for 12 games in Hungarian league. Radonjic is not a new face in France as he played for Chalons-Reims in 2010/11 season. He had 8.8 ppg and 2.2 rpg for 33 games in ProB. Gorjan Radonjic played for Bosna ASA BHT in 2009/10. There he registered 3.1 ppg and 1 rpg for 12 Adriatic league games. Before Bosna, the forward played for PGE Turow Zgorzelec and OKK Beograd. In the past he was a member of Paris Basket Racing, Nancy, Atlas Banka, Dijon, Bondy and INSEP.


Dusan Kecman signs for Roanne - by Zoran Popovic

Former Partizan forward Dusan Kecman (197-F-77, agency: Beo Basket) becomes new player of Roanne and joins to coach Luka Pavicevic. Dusan Kecman started career in IMT Beograd and during the career played for Beopetrol Beograd, FMP Zeleznik, Partizan Beograd, Makedonikos Kozani, Efes Pilsen, Oostende, BC Kyiv and Panathinaikos Athens. With Serbian Champion Dusan Kecman won 7 Serbian Championships, 4 Adriatic leagues, 4 National Cups Radivoj Korac. With Panathinaikos Athens Dusan Kecman wins triple crowns and Euroleague Champion. Dusan Kecman was member of Serbian National team.


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


Czech Republic edged Slovakia at home tournament - by Eurobasket News

Czech Republic-Slovakia 77:71

Czech Republic edged Slovakia at home tournament in Chomutov. The hosts beat the opponents 77:71 in the opener.
Czech Republic started better and won the first period 19-15. Slovakia meanwhile replied with 20-16 in the second frame and tied the score at 35:35 at the halftime. The third quarter however was decisive in the game. Czech Republic pushed the tempo for good and grabbed 8-point advantage after three quarters. Slovakia responded with 21-19 in the last stanza to reduce to 6 points at the final whistle.
Michal Batka (204-C-87) top-scored for the Slovakian team with 17 points, while Robert Nuber (187-PG-83) and Anton Gavel (189-G-84, agency: Pro One Sports) added 10 apiece. Jelinek replied with 16 points for the winners and Tomas Satoransky (200-G-91) notched 15. Ondrej Balvin (216-C-92), Lubos Barton (202-F/G-80, college: Valparaiso), Pavel Pumprla (200-F-86) and Welsch ended up with 8 points each in a win.

In another game Bulgaria lost the opener in Chomutov at the start of the International Tournament. The team lost to Holland 84:97 in Day 1.


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


Slovenian U18 National Team 2012 - by Greg

Slovenian U18 National Team 2012
#s#
Matic Bizjak
Bizjak
Tomaz Bolcina
Bolcina
Jan Dolensek
Dolensek
Gregor Horvat
Horvat
Gabrijel Jelinic
Jelinic
#e#5
Matic Bizjak 202-PF-94 Parklji Slovenia
Tomaz Bolcina 206-C-94 Helios Slovenia
Jan Dolensek 202-PF-95 Geoplin Slovan Slovenia
Gregor Horvat 196-G/F-94 Helios Slovenia
Gabrijel Jelinic 202-PF-94 Parklji Slovenia
Jure Kopac 198-SF-94 Geoplin Slovan Slovenia
Martin Krampelj 200-SF-95 Grosuplje Slovenia
Matic Macek 189-G-94 Zlatorog Slovenia
Aleksej Nikolic 185-PG-95 Spars Sarajevo Bosnia
Matic Rebec 180-PG-95 Helios Slovenia
Jure Ritlop 202-F-95 Krka II Slovenia
Jan Rizman 197-SG-94 Elektra Slovenia
Andraz Rogelja 186-PG-95 Parklji Slovenia
Kristjan Runovc 198-SF-94 Union Olim. II Slovenia
Jakob Strazar 202-PF-94 Jance Prit Slovenia
Taras Grbac 200-SF-94 Ivancna Gorica Slovenia
Ziga Zatezic 196-SG-95 Krka II Slovenia

Dzemo Ibisi Head Coach Litija Slovenia
Dejan Cikic Assistant Helios Slovenia



Union Olimpija replaces Thompson with Dylan Page - by Matej Bergant

Union Olimpija signed experienced power forward Dylan Page (204-F-82, college: Wisc.-Milwaukee) for the upcoming season. The 30-years old player comes from French club Chorale de Roanne Basket where he played during last three seasons. He was their key player during last episode, as he averaged 13,8 points and 4,9 rebounds per game in EuroChallenge and 14,5 points and 5,6 rebounds per game in French League. Dylan Page started his basketball career at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (NCAA) and then continued in Europe where he stayed with Vassilakis, Panellinios, Mallorca, Granada, Pau Orthez and Roanne.


Union Olimpija and Deon Thompson mutually parted ways - by Matej Bergant

Union Olimpija Ljubljana and power forward Deon Thompson (203-F-88, college: N.Carolina) mutually parted ways today. Player expressed his wish to try his luck in the NBA. He will wait until last minute to sign a contract in the NBA, as his agent heard some interest for his services due to good performances in the past NBA Summer League with the Memphis Grizzlies. If this will not happen, he will continue his basketball career in some other European club. Union Olimpija Ljubljana thanked the player and wished him best of luck in his future career. The club will soon announce his adequate replacement on the power forward position.


Union Olimpija inks Dylan Page for 2012/13 - by Eurobasket News

Union Olimpija added another player for the next season. It is American Dylan Page (204-F-82, college: Wisc.-Milwaukee), who spent last three years with Roanne. He shined with 14.5 ppg and 5.6 rpg for 32 games in ProA last season. Roanne also competed in EuroChallenge, where Page added 13.8 ppg and 4.9 rpg in 14 games. They reached Quarterfinals in this competition. Dylan Page was one of the best Roanne players in all three years. He was awarded twice with Eurobasket.com All-French ProA Honorable Mention -10, 12. Before Roanne, Page spent one year with Pau-Orthez and one with Granada. He also has experience from Mallorca, Panellinios and MENT. Page graduated at the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee in 2004.


Krka adds Bolcina, Olimpija part ways with Thompson, announce replacement - by Zeljko Zule

Krka fortified its roster with an eye on the future with the signing of U-18 national team Tomaz Bolcina (202-F-94) to a contract that last through the 2015-16 season. Bolcina arrives from Helios Domzale, for whom he averaged 3,8 points, 2,8 rebounds, 0,2 steals and 0,2 blocks in 5 Adriatic League games last season and 3.0 rebounds in just 2 Telemach League games.
Union Olimpija and Deon Thompson (203-F-88, college: N.Carolina) reached an agreement to part ways. The American big man landed in Slovenia last summer and his first season in Euroleague averaged 8.8 points, 4.1 rebounds and 0.8 assists. Thompson poured 11.7 points, 5.3 rebounds and 0.8 blocks per game in Adriatic League and 12.0 points, 5.3 rebounds, 0.7 assists, 1.3 steals and 1.0 blocks per game in Telemach League.
Olimpija immediately replaced Thompson with Dylan Page (204-F-82, college: Wisc.-Milwaukee). He arrives from French side Roanne and averaged 14.5 points and 5.6 rebounds in LNB Pro A League.


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


Autocid Burgos extended Dani Lopez - by Natxo Mendaza

Autocid Ford Burgos officially announced the re-signing of Spanish point guard Daniel Lopez (188-82). Lopez, who has spent most of his career in LEB Gold -played two seasons (2009-11) for Assignia Manresa in ACB-, averaged 9.4ppg, 4apg and 2.8rpg per game, becoming on of the top guards of the competition. Unfortunately, Lopez had to miss the playoffs due to injury, and couldn't help his team reach LEB Gold finals (Burgos lost against Caceres in quarterfinals).



Regal Barcelona announced Marko Todorovic - by Eurobasket News

Regal Barcelona announced Marko Todorovic (210-C/F-92) for the next season. Few days ago Regal Barca made an offer to Marko Todorovic and brought now the player to the roster.
Marko Todorovic played 5 games for Joventut last season in Liga Endesa averaging 3.4 points and 1.8 rebounds. The Montenegrin forward spent most of the season with CB Prat Juventut in LEB Silver. There he shined with 15.8 ppg, 8.2 rpg and 1.4 bpg for 26 games. Todorovic was named Eurobasket.com All-Spanish LEB Silver Forward of the Year -12 and also Eurobasket.com All-Spanish LEB Silver 1st Team -12. He joined Joventut in 2008 as 16-year-old player. Todorovic played for U20 Montenegro last summer at U20 EuroBasket in Bilbao. He had 8.6 ppg, 7.9 rpg and 1.4 spg for 9 games at this event. In the past, Todorovic played for U18 Montenegro. A year ago with Prat Joventut he was named Eurobasket.com All-Spanish LEB Silver Bosman Player of the Year -11.


Burgos extends deal with PG Daniel Lopez - by Eurobasket News

Burgos stepped up with another signing. This time they penned a 1-year contract extension with Daniel Lopez (188-PG-82). The Spanish point guard joined Burgos last summer from Manresa. He had 9.4 ppg, 4 apg and 2.8 rpg for 30 games in LEB Gold. Lopez was a member of Manresa from 2009. He had 4.7 ppg and 1.3 rpg for 33 ACB games in their first season together. From 2007 to 2009, Daniel Lopez played for Breogan. He was one of their best players in 2008/09 with 11.2 ppg, 3.7 apg and 3 rpg for 32 LEB Gold games. In the past, he played fro Gijon, Caceres, Cantabria Lobos, Melilla and Real Madrid. In 2009, he was named Eurobasket.com Spanish LEB Gold All-Domestic Players.


Palma keeps HC Matias Cerda, extends three players - by Eurobasket News

Platja de Palma is shaping its team for the upcoming season. The LEB Silver newcomer extended deal with Head Coach Matias Cerda . It will be their four straight season together. The team also kept Llorenc Llompart (197-F-87), Berto Garcia and Miguel Corbacho (192-G-79).
Llorenc Llompart had 10.1 ppg and 5.9 rpg for 20 games in EBA last season. He played for the club in 2010/11, as well as from 2005 to 2009. Meanwhile, Llompart spent one year with Mallorca.
Miguel Corbacho also was one of the best players in Palma last season. He had 13.1 ppg and 2.1 rpg for 26 games. He had slightly lower numbers in 2010/11. Corbacho is a member of Palma since 2007.


Planasa Navarra adds Vaidotas Volkus for the next season - by Eurobasket News

Another signing for Planasa Navarra. The very ambitious LEB Gold team brought in Vaidotas Volkus (202-F-85, college: Redlands CC). He played last season for Juventus-LKSK Utenos collecting 9 ppg and 3.3 rpg in 20 Lithuanian league games. The power forward has slightly better numbers for 17 Baltic league appearances. Before Juventus, Volkus spent year and a half with Panevezys Techasas. He had 11.3 ppg and 4.5 rpg for 19 LKL games in 2010/11. The player split 2009/10 season between Siauliai and Panevezys Techasas. That year he also spent some time with ABRO-Universitetas Siauliai. Vaidotas Volkus graduated at the University of Missouri four years ago. He transferred to Missouri in 2006, after two years with Redlands CC. Volkus played for Lithuanian U20 National Team in the past.


Cory Johnson joins Coruna - by Eurobasket News

Leyma Basquet Coruna announced signing of its first import for the next season. The LEB Gold squad inked a 1-year deal with Cory Johnson (200-F-88, college: Valparaiso). He will be used as position 3. Yesterday, Coruna penned a deal with Angel Hernandez.
Cory Johnson will play in Spain for the first time in his career. Last season he spent with Finish team UU-Korihait Uusikaupunki. He appeared 29 times in the league averaging 16.8 points and 5.9 rebounds. It was his first professional deal. Johnson graduated at Valparaiso University a year ago. He had 14.1 ppg and 4.4 rpg in 24 games as a senior. Johnson had even better numbers in 2009/19. He transferred to Valparaiso in 2008 from the Iowa State University, but was red-shirted one year due to NCAA rules.


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


Rickey Gibson stays with Vacallo - by Eurobasket News

Rickey Gibson (191-G-84, college: Stillman) will continue his career in Vacallo. The guard has agreed on terms of contract extension. The new deal is meant for three seasons. Rickey Gibson has been playing for the team since 2007. He tallied 16.1 points, 6.6 boards, 6.4 assists and 2.7 steals per game last season. Eurobasket.com named Rickey Gibson All-Swiss LNA Guard of the Year. He was also named All-Swiss LNA Defensive Player of the Year. The guard earned the same award in 2010/11 season. He made it into Swiss LNA All-Defensive Team in 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012. Rickey Gibson played for the Druid City Dragons in WBA before moving to Switzerland.


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


Besiktas extends Baris Hersek and Serhat Cetin for the next season - by Eurobasket News

Besiktas officially announced signing of 1-year contact extension with Baris Hersek (204-F/C-88) and Serhat Cetin (197-G-86).
Baris Hersek joined Besiktas last summer from Antalya. He played 32 TBL games last season averaging 2.8 points and 1.4 rebounds. The Turkish big guy also had 2 ppg and 1.3 rpg for 10 games in EuroChallenge. Before Besiktas and Antalya, he played for Banvit, Darussafaka and Efes Pilsen.
Serhat Cetin arrived to Besiktas in 2010 from Feberbahce Ulker. Last season he had 6.2 ppg, 3.1 apg and 2.3 rpg in 34 TBL games. His numbers were lower in 15 EuroChallenge appearances.
Besiktas had perfect season winning TBL and EuroChallenge titles, plus they won the Turkish Cup. The team will play in Euroleague next season.


Stefano Mancinelli to Fenerbahce just for Euroleague? - by Pervin Elgin

The Italian forward is still free agent

Stefano Mancinelli might move to Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul and play just in Euroleague. The Italian forward, captain of the National Team, is still free agent after his experience with Olimpia Milano.
TBL limits at 6 the number of foreigners and the same role (just in Euroleague) was offered to Kostas Vasileiadis from Bilbao. The Spanish team didn't let him leave so Fenerbahce turned its attention on Mancinelli who would work with Simone Pianigiani, coach of the National Team. Virtus Bologna would love to sign Stefano Mancinelli but they can't offer the amount of money Mancio is looking for.The news was reported by Gazzetta.it.

Courtesy of sportando.net


*****************************************************
  U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS   


Hoyas, Guidance Get NBBA Weekend Wins - by David Edole

By Dave Davis August 6, 2012

The Hoyas and Guidance were both winners in the New Breed Basketball Association summer league weekend action played Saturday night at the Ronald Charles Gymnasium on the Central High Campus. The defending champion Hoyas knocked off Dread Is, 80-62, in game one, while Guidance pulled away late to beat the Lakers, 74-65, in the late game.

Hoyas 80, Dread Is 62
The defending champion Hoyas, who had looked anything but for most of the season, are rounding into form as the season winds down. The Hoyas blew out the Dread Is, 80-62, in a game that was not as close as the final score would indicate.

The Hoyas hammered their opponents for three quarters, building a 23 point lead of 69-46 before calling off the dogs in the fourth.

Warren Christian led the way for the Hoyas scorching the nets for 21 points that included five bombs from beyond the arc. He also grabbed nine rebounds on the defensive end.

Also chipping in for the Hoyas were Omari Applewaite with 17 points and six dimes, Karl John with 17 points and Eddie Castillo with 13.

Kurt Tennis Man John controlled the paint for the Hoyas defensively swatting away five shots while grabbing a game-high 16 boards.

For Dread Is it was Robby Sanes leading the way with a team-high 14 points. Timothy Sneed dropped in 12 points, Wilmont Liburd 11 and Kareem Harry finished with 10.

Guidance 74, Lakers 65
Guidance turned back a late charge by the Lakers in the fourth quarter of game two, then gradually pulled away to win by nine, 74-65.

Jerome Nathaniel took matters into his own hands on Saturday, exploding for a season high 27 points and 13 rebounds to lead Guidance to victory. He got good support from Raydel Dennis who chipped in with 11 points and 15 boards and Marcelo Jacobs who netted 11.

The Lakers were led by Rashawn Williams who finished with 13 points and six assists, Robert Duck had 12 points and 15 rebounds, and Shane Hodge finished with 10 points.


2012 V.I. Pride Summer League final standings and stats - by David Edole

V.I. Pride Basketball League
Taking Ova 11-0
Right Mix 7-4
Legacy 7-4
Shut Dem Down 2-9
Elite 1-11

Scoring Avg
1. Ricky MABRY TOV 27.0
2. Khalid Gerard (193-G) TOV 25.5
3. Akil Lewis (183-G-82, college: Lynn) RMX 22.5
4. Ted FAHIE ELT 19.8
5. Cedric SMITH SDD 17.1
6. Shamal CAINES TOV 16.4
7. Kashawn BENJAMIN SDD 15.5
8. Malik HODGE LGC 15.2
9. Jaymar MORGAN ELT 14.5
10. Steve Gardner II RMX 14.2

Total Rebounds Avg
1.Jahbari BROWN TOV 11.7
2.Jaymar MORGAN ELT 9.50
3.Wayne RAWLINS RMX 8.29
4.Khalid Gerard TOV 8.27
5.Merwin Potter (93) TOV 8.18
6.Cedric SMITH SDD 8.09
7.Jerrick AMARO LGC 7.73
8.Duane HOLLAND ELT 7.50
9.Akeebo THOMAS LGC 7.45
10.Aubrey DANIEL LGC 6.80

Assists Avg
1.Akil Lewis RMX 4.00
2.Azamba GALLOWAY TOV 3.71
3.Rasheem RICHARDS LGC 3.60
4.Khalid Gerard TOV 3.55
5.Jahleel LAVIE ELT 3.00
6.Kashawn BENJAMIN SDD 3.00
7.Shamal CAINES TOV 2.90
8.Ricky MABRY TOV 2.80
9.Ryan MILLS TOV 2.78
10.Malik HODGE LGC 2.60

Steals Avg
1.Merwin Potter TOV 3.27
2.Khalid Gerard TOV 3.18
3.Ryan MILLS TOV 2.56
4.Cedric SMITH SDD 2.45
5.Sekayi PETERSEN TOV 2.40
6.Steve Gardner II RMX 2.33
7.Akil Lewis RMX 2.27
8.Jaymar MORGAN ELT 2.25
9.Shamal CAINES TOV 2.20
10.Jahbari BROWN TOV 2.17

Blocks Num
1.Merwin Potter TOV 22
2.Jahbari BROWN TOV 14
3.Khalid Gerard TOV 7
4.Michael DAVIS RMX 7
5.Dashiell FREEMAN RMX 7
6.Duane HOLLAND ELT 6
7.Jason HERCULES SDD 6
8.Ricardo OQUENDO LGC 6
9.Akeebo THOMAS LGC 6
10.Aubrey DANIEL LGC 5


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


Justice is college stand-out for 2012 Jones Cup Team - by Travis McAvene

James Justice (5'10''-G-89, college: Martin Methodist) was recently named to the 2012 Team USA Jones Cup Team. Justice is privileged to be the only player on the Jones Cup roster that is coming straight out of college.

Justice was a first team All-American at Martin Methodist University for the 2011-2012 season. He was also TranSouth Conference Player of the Year in 2012 and won the ESPN State Farm College Slam Dunk Championship during the final four.

'James is a very explosive and athletic point guard that knows how to win, said Coach Travis McAvene (agency: Gamble Sports Management ). He is also a good defender and will fit in perfect will the up-tempo style of basketball Team USA will play at the Jones Cup in Taiwan, added McAvene.


*****************************************************
  UGANDA   


Kasewu leads Warriors past Power, A1 sparks MUK - by Joel Nature

Ronnie Kasewu scored 11 of his 15 points in the final quarter and added 10 rebounds as Kyambogo Warriors beat DMark Power 75-56 on Friday night.

After scoring just 4 points in the first 3 quarters, the guard went on rampage in the final quarter knocking down back-to-back 3-balls that took Warriors (13-1) into double digit lead with 6:09 to the final buzzer.

Syrus Kiviri (11 points) Henry Malinga (14 points, 9 rebounds) and Ivan Enabu (8 points) kept Warriors with in striking distance in the first half, as Joseph Ikong (15 points) Isaac Luggudde (12 points) and Ben Komakech (8 points) were piling up points for Power (10-4) in the two periods.

Power leading 44-41 with 2:20 in the 3rd quarter, Warriors' center, Micheal Kariuki hit a game tying 3-pointer and Jude Ochen sunk a go ahead jumper from the top of the mountain on the next possession 10 seconds later to give Warriors a lead for the second time in the game. Last year's losing finalists went on a 12-0 run to close the quarter and out scored Power 20-9 in the period to the run away victory. Power shot under 30% from the field and were 11-for-26 on the line.

Meanwhile in the women's division, A1 Challenge came from behind to beat MUK Sparks 42-37. Vickie Ntale lead A1 with 9 points, Mariam Birungi added 7 points and Liz Kizza chipped in with 6 and 11 rebounds. Sparks were led by Winnie Anyango's game high 15 points that came along with 9 boards. Diana Awor added 9 points.Clutch Kasewu leads Warriors past Power, A1 sparks MUK

Ronnie Kasewu scored 11 of his 15 points in the final quarter and added 10 rebounds as Kyambogo Warriors beat DMark Power 75-56 on Friday night.
After scoring just 4 points in the first 3 quarters, the guard went on rampage in the final quarter knocking down back-to-back 3-balls that took Warrios (13-1) into double digit lead with 6:09 to the final buzzer.

Syrus Kiviri (11 points) Henry Malinga (14 points, 9 rebounds) and Ivan Enabu (8 points) kept Warriors with in striking distance in the first half, as Joseph Ikong (15 points) Isaac Luggudde (12 points) and Ben Komakech (8 points) were piling up points for Power (10-4) in the two periods.

Power leading 44-41 with 2:20 in the 3rd quarter, Warriors' center, Micheal Kariuki hit a game tying 3-pointer and Jude Ochen sunk a go ahead jumper from the top of the mountain on the next possession 10 seconds later to give Warriors a lead for the second time in the game. Last year's losing finalists went on a 12-0 run to close the quarter and out scored Power 20-9 in the period to the run away victory. Power shot under 30% from the field and were 11-for-26 on the line.

Meanwhile in the women's division, A1 Challenge came from behind to beat MUK Sparks 42-37. Vickie Ntale lead A1 with 9 points, Mariam Birungi added 7 points and Liz Kizza chipped in with 6 and 11 rebounds. Sparks were led by Winnie Anyango's game high 15 points that came along with 9 boards. Diana Awor added 9 points.


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


Hoverla adds American point guard Eugene Lawrence - by Eurobasket News

Eugene Lawrence (184-G-86, agency: Two Points, college: St.John's) will continue his career in Ukraine. The American PG signed a deal with Hoverla, according to Eurobasket's Surujh Roopnarine. Lawrence won title and Cup last season in Czech Republic. He played for their powerhouse CEZ Basketball Nymburk averaging 6.9 points, 4.1 assists and 2.2 rebounds for 29 games in NBL. The American had almost the same numbers in VTB United League and EuroCup. They reached EurpCup Quarterfinals together. Before Nymburk, Eugene Lawrence spent two years with BK Prostejov. There he had 13.3 ppg, 4.5 apg and 3.1 rpg in 14 EuroChallenge games in 2010/11 season. The player participated twice at the NBL All-Star Game (MVP in 2011). In 2009, Eugene Lawrence led Nitra to Slovakian league title. It was his first season as a pro and Lawrence shined with 17.8 ppg, 6.4 apg, plus 5.3 rpg for 32 games.


Ukrainian NT beats Estonians in Tbilisi - by Alexander Muzyka

Mike Fratello 's team reached a first win in Tbilisi. Ukrainians take part in a friendly tournament in Georgia as well as Estonia and Belarus. Kyrylo Natiazhko and Co were stronger then Estonians at Wednesday. After an equal first half (33:30) they pushed theirselves and crushed an opponents in a third quarter. Tomorrow spectators will see Ukraine-Belarus and Georgia-Estonia games.

Ukraine - Estonia - 60:49 (19:18, 14:12, 17:8, 10:11)
U: Natiazhko (18 + 6 rbs), Burtt (10 + 6 tos), Kornienko (7 + 4 rbs), Gladyr (5 + 4 rbs), Drozdov (4 + 4 rbs), Lipovyi (4 + 6 rbs + 5 ast), Kravtsov (4 + 4 rbs + 4 tos), Pustozvonov (3), Zabirchenko (2), Gliebov (2), Kolchenko (1), Tymofeienko, Butskyi, Zaitsev.
E: Kangur (20 + 8 rbs), Vene (10 + 8 rbs), Arbet (5), Sokk (5 + 4 rbs)...


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


Luol Deng feels fine after Britain blows out China, 90-58 - by Eurobasket News

Luol Deng (6'9''-F-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Duke) finished Britain's first Olympic basketball victory since 1948 on the bench, a symbolic event with ramifications on both sides of the pond.

With the British 90-58 trouncing of China in its final game, Deng's role as ambassador for basketball to his adopted country, the one that offered his family political asylum from Sudan, could be complete.

Now his preparations to start Bulls' training camp on time begin in earnest.

In his strongest implication yet that he either will forego surgery on the torn ligament in his left wrist altogether or postpone it until after the 2012-13 season, Deng said he planned to start camp on time.

"Did I look like I needed (surgery)?" Deng said Monday evening. "I'm fine right now. I feel great. There are a lot of things I want to improve in my game that I want to focus on now. I want to be a better player than I was last year.

"I have time to make decisions and be healthy by the time we start (training camp)."

With Bulls' camp roughly two months away, it'd be impossible for Deng to have surgery now and be ready for its start. He has told friends and associates he plans to avoid surgery. And coach Tom Thibodeau said last month he is under that impression as well.

"I'm just going to get ready for the season," Deng said.

Deng, who has carried the torch for this country's fledgling program, also wouldn't commit to further national team participation. That led to speculation that if he needs surgery at all, it would happen next summer. The same doctor who surgically repaired a torn ligament in Deng's right wrist that cut short his rookie season has told him this injury might not require surgery, sources said.

Deng missed his first five shots Monday and didn't score until a fast-break layup with 5:13 left in the third. Playing point forward often, he finished 3-for-11 for six points with four assists and three rebounds.

Through the Olympics, Deng averaged 15.8 points, 6.6 rebounds and 4.6 assists in five games, shooting 31.4 percent.

"If the Olympics were next month, I'd play again," Deng said. "This is something no one will ever take away. I'm always going to remember this moment, walking out for the opening ceremonies and playing with guys I played with my whole life. Seeing my parents out there and (youth coach) Jimmy (Rogers), I can't explain it. It's one of those stories, if I missed the Olympics, I'd always think about that."

Indeed, Deng wore a broad smile as he linked arms with teammates as "God Save the Queen" played to a full stadium in full throat. And he deflected questions about his subpar play to broader issues.

"I believe basketball is going to grow in this country," he said. "It would've been easy for me to say I don't want to play. But I feel I made the right decision. A lot of kids saw me play.

"It's very similar to being at the All-Star Game and taking out my (Africa) T-shirt. A lot of people would disagree with it, but I know it's the right decision."

That gesture got Deng fined by the NBA. This time, with his Olympic commitment complete, Deng will get some payback by being fine for NBA action.

Courtesy of www.chicagotribune.com


Lamble Back For Riders Again - by Paul Nilsen

Centre Barry Lamble (208-C-83) is returning to the Leicester Riders for his seventh season, making him Rider's longest serving player.

The 6 foot 10 inch, 240 lb England centre had a superb season for the Jelson Homes DMU backed Riders, helping them to a second place finish, after starting the season in a back-up role, but then becoming increasing influential as the season reached its climax.

Somerset born Lamble was one of only four Riders who played in all 30 BBL Championship games, showing his durability, and finished the season averaging 6.5 points, and 4.5 rebounds in his 17 minutes played per game.

Coach Rob Paternostro was delighted that the 29 year old Lamble would be back with his team, "Barry has been Mr Continuity for us, and from my perspective has improved his game every season. He can play well starting, or coming off the bench, and last season, when we struggled a little with our inside game, he became a very important factor for us. I have total confidence putting him in the game at any stage, and that says a lot about his development as a player. He has also become more important to the Club as a whole because he has that experience, and is a guy who can help out the new boys settle into the team."

For Lamble, there was only one option, "I am delighted to be back, and really enjoyed playing with the team last season. It was great to have that winning run last season, and hopefully we can go one better this season. Coach Paternostro is a great inspiration, and the Club is a wonderful family, so it was a no brainer for me. I am really enjoying my basketball, so hope to add a few more tweaks to my game for next season."

Lamble joins Great Britain players Andrew Sullivan, Connor Washington and Jamell Anderson as confirmed returnees so far announced by the Club.


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


Minsk-2006 keeps Ronaldas Rutkauskas - by Eurobasket News

Minsk-2006 announced signing of Ronaldas Rutkauskas (203-PF-92) to contract extension. It will be their second season together. In the latest one Rutkauskas mostly played for Minsk-2006 II. The Lithuanian power forward shined with 19.4 ppg and 9.4 rpg for 29 games in the league. He was named Eurobasket.com All-Belarusian League Forward of the Year -12 and participated at the All-Star Game.
As mentioned above, Ronaldas Rutkauskas arrived to Minsk-2006 a year ago from 08 Stockholm. In 2010/11 season the player had 1.8 ppg and 1.8 rpg for Stockholm in Swedish Basketligan. He also played for BG Fryshuset Stockholm in Basketettan collecting 15.5 ppg and 9.8 rpg for 13 games. He played for the same teams also in 2009/10. Two years ago Rutkauskas was a member of the Lithuanian U18 National Team.



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Women News

Stats Leaders - WNBL

Points Per Game
 Suzy BATKOVIC-BROWN
  Adelaide
  (195-C-80)
  Avg: 24.6
 1. Batkovic-B., Adela.24.6 
 2. Cambage, Bulle.21.0 
 3. Snell, Sydney UF19.6 
 4. Macleod, Dandenon.17.4 
 5. O''Hea, Dandenong16.9 
 6. Cox, Waves16.6 
 7. Bishop, Adelaide16.5 
 8. Denson, Sydney UF16.4 
 9. Jarry, Bulleen B.15.6 
 10. Dowdell, Townsvil.15.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Elizabeth CAMBAGE
  Bulle.
  (203-C-91)
  Avg: 10.5
 1. Cambage, Bulle.10.5 
 2. Batkovic-B., Adela.10.2 
 3. Francis, Logan T.10.1 
 4. Dowdell, Townsvil.9.0 
 5. Tolo, Canberra C.8.7 
 6. Bishop, Adelaide8.4 
 7. Denson, Sydney UF8.3 
 8. Cox, Waves8.1 
 9. Richards, Bendi.7.8 
 10. Jarry, Bulleen B.7.4 
Assists Per Game
 Kathleen MACLEOD
  Dandenon.
  (167-SG-86)
  Avg: 7.6
 1. Macleod, Dandenon.7.6 
 2. Poto, Sydney UF4.5 
 3. O''Hea, Dandenong4.5 
 4. Snell, Sydney UF4.3 
 5. Richards, Bulleen4.2 
 6. Harrower, Bendi.4.1 
 7. Flanagan, Townsvil.4.0 
 8. Veal, Logan T.3.8 
 9. Hunt, Canberra C.3.6 
 10. Marino, Adelaide3.5 
Steals Per Game
 Suzy BATKOVIC-BROWN
  Adelaide
  (195-C-80)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Batkovic-B., Adela.2.6 
 2. Leedham, Bulle.2.6 
 3. Cox, Waves2.0 
 4. Snell, Sydney UF1.8 
 5. Blicavs, AIS1.7 
 6. Veal, Logan T.1.6 
 7. Poto, Sydney UF1.6 
 8. O''Hea, Dandenong1.4 
 9. Foley, Townsville1.4 
 10. Taylor, Logan T.1.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Marianna TOLO
  Canberra C.
  (196-C-89)
  Avg: 3.2
 1. Tolo, Canberra C.3.2 
 2. Cambage, Bulle.2.5 
 3. Tomlinson, Dandeno.1.8 
 4. Batkovic-B., Adela.1.6 
 5. Francis, Logan T.1.6 
 6. Snell, Sydney UF1.1 
 7. Wilson, Canberra.1.0 
 8. Foley, Townsville0.8 
 9. Cox, Waves0.8 
 10. Jarry, Bulleen B.0.8 


2012 Olympics: Australia heads to Semifinals - by Eurobasket News

AUSTRALIA - CHINA 75-60

Australia handed 75-60 loss to China and advanced to the Semifinals of 2012 Olympic Games in London. There, Australia will meet defending champion USA. Lauren Jackson (196-F/C-81), who finished with 12 points, hit a jumper with 3:46 remaining in the game that gave her 536 points - one more than former Brazil star Janeth Arcain. The four-time Olympian's record-breaking basket gave Australia a comfortable 13-point lead. Cambage Elizabeth (203-C-91) had 17 points and 7 rebounds for the Australians, while Suzy Batkovic-Brown (195-C-80) added 10 points, plus 9 boards. Australia and the United States have met in three straight Olympic finals, with the Americans winning the gold each time. Australia failed to win its group and will now have to play the favored Americans one round earlier. The teams met in the semifinals at the 1996 Atlanta Games, where the U.S. won the first its four consecutive gold medals. Ma Zengyu (183-F-84) led China with 15 points. Miao LiJie (178-F-81) scored 13 points and Chen Xiaoli (193-F-82) stopped to 9 pts. Quarters: 22-16, 13-20, 20-16, 20-8. Semifinals are scheduled for Thursday.

Australia: Cambage Elizabeth 17+7 boards, Lauren Jackson 12, Suzy Batkovic-Brown 10+9 boards
China: Ma Zengyu 15+5 boards, Miao LiJie 13, Chen Xiaoli 9


2012 Olympics: Opals vs China Quarterfinal preview - by Eurobasket News

Australia (4-1, 2nd Group B) vs China (3-2, 3rd Group A)
Tip-off: Wed 8 Aug 1:15AM (Australian Eastern Standard Time)
TV coverage: Live on Foxtels London 5 & London 5 HD from 1:05AM AEST

After finishing second in Group B, the Opals will take on China in a sudden death Quarter Final on Wednesday morning at 1:15am Australian time.

The winner will move on the top four and the Semis, where they will likely play the undefeated US team if the Americans defeat Canada in their match as expected.

But, as Carrie Graf will undoubtedly be advising her troops, lets not get ahead of ourselves.

China will be no pushovers.

After all, China finished in the top four in Beijing, and are also the reigning Asian Champions.

In group play in London, the Chinese beat Croatia, Angola and the Czech Republic (the team that ousted the Opals at the Quarter Finals stage at the 2010 FIBA World Championships). They have proven themselves to be a quality side, with their only two losses coming to a red hot team from Turkey and the US.

They are led by 195cm centre Nan Chen, who has been averaging a tournament-high 17.6 points per game. She is efficient around the basket, shooting the ball at 51.3% from the field, and has also made 83.3% of her free throws. A solid rebounder (6.6 per game), Chen is a veteran of the Chinese team and this is her third Olympic Games.

Second on scoring for the Chinese is 183cm small forward Zengyu Ma, who is averaging 13.3 points per game. Ma is also averaging 5.3 rebounds and 2.3 assists, but has missed Chinas last two group matches against Turkey and the US the only two losses China has had. Ma has range and has made 6-of-10- three-pointers in the tournament to date.

Whilst Asian teams are often stereotyped as being units that drive-and-dish for three-point shooters, the Chinese have not actually found their range from the perimeter thus far. They are shooting the ball at 28.3% from three-point range, although this is marginally better than the Opals at 27.8%.

The Chinese offence is powered by 178cm guard Miao LiJie (178-F-81). Her ability to penetrate off the dribble has seen her average a tournament-high 7.4 assists, as well as 8.6 points and 3.4 rebounds. She has surprised many with her playmaking, as she had more of a reputation as a scorer after leading the Beijing Olympic Games in that category. The Opals will need to contain her and pressure her passes if they hope to stymie the Chinese offence.

The Opals had also better take care not to foul too often against the Chinese as they are the second best free-throw shooting side in the competition, making 82.4% of their attempts from the charity stripe.

The real weakness of the Chinese has been their rebounding. As a team they are averaging just 35.2 boards per outing. That is a full seven less than the Opals (42.2) and ranks them eleventh of the 12 teams in London ahead of only Canada. They are dead last in offensive rebounding, averaging just 9.2 per game, so the Opals will need to make sure they dont improve that average in their Quarter Final.

The Chinese defence has been very disciplined in London, and China are averaging just 12.2 fouls per game. Thats the lowest of any team at the Olympic Games, so the Opals will have to work hard if they want to get to the foul line.

One of the real bugbears of the Opals London campaign has been their poor passing under pressure. The Opals are averaging 17.4 turnovers per game (third highest in London) but fortunately the Chinese defence hasnt been overly aggressive looking for the steal thus far (just 5.4 steals per game second lowest in London).

The Opals will head into their Quarter Final as the raging favourites to beat China and advance to play the US in the Semis. If they dont get too far ahead of themselves, thats exactly what they should be able to do.


Opals Keys to Victory

- Keep the ball out of Miaos hands whenever possible and, once she gets the ball, pressure her to give it up;
- Find a way to limit the offensive production of Chen and Ma;
- Crash the glass at both ends of the floor and look to run out of defensive rebounding situations to create easy baskets and foul shots.;
- Look for deep catches in the post for Lauren Jackson (196-F/C-81) and Cambage Elizabeth (203-C-91), particularly in transition;
- Take care of the ball to limit turnovers and minimise additional shot opportunities for China;
- Play straight up-and-down defence against the Chinese bigs to avoid foul trouble and letting them head to the line where they can do damage.

Courtesy of WNBL Australia


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


Julie Seabrook gets pro deal in Switzerland - by Eurobasket News

Julie Seabrook (190-F-90) will start her professional basketball career overseas. The Canadian forward penned a 1-year deal with Swiss team Sopraceneri Bellinzona. She graduated at the University of Colorado few months ago. Seabrook appeared 35 times for her school as a senior averaging 7.3 points and 5.2 rebounds. She had slightly lower numbers in 2010/11. Colorado reached NIT Elite Eight in 2011 and this year as well. Last summer Seabrook was one of the candidates for the Canadian National Team. The forward played for U19 Canada three years ago and they reached Semifinals at U19 World Championship in Thailand. In the past, she also played for U18 NT. Seabrook had 1.2 ppg and 1.6 rpg for 5 games at U18 FIBA Americans in Bueno Aires, 2008.


2012 Olympics: USA destroys Canada 91-48 in the Quarterfinals - by Eurobasket News

USA - CANADA 91-48

USA advanced to the Semifinals of 2012 Olympic Games in London. The Americans turned up the defensive pressure to beat Canada with huge 91-48. Diana Taurasi (6'0''-SG-82, college: Connecticut) led the winners with 15 points and Candace Parker (6'4''-C-86, college: Tennessee) added 12 points, plus 7 rebounds. Sylvia Fowles (6'6''-C-85, college: LSU) also scored 12 points in this meeting. At the other side, Kimberley Smith (6'1''-F-84, college: Utah) responded with 13 points and 6 rebounds in defeat. Chelsea Aubry (6'2''-F-84, college: Nebraska) was their second scorer with 10 pts and Courtnay Pilypaitis (6'1''-G-88, college: Vermont) stopped to 6. USA took control on its rival from he beginning and never looked back. Quarters: 19-8, 23-13, 26-10, 23-17. The Americans held Canada to the fewest points the U.S. has given up in an Olympic quarterfinals since beating Slovakia 58-43 in 2000. The U.S. hasnt lost to Canada since playing in the 1975 world championship tournament. Also, the victory was the 39th straight for the Americans in Olympic play and came 20 years to the day after the win that started the streak - a 88-74 victory over Cuba for the bronze medal in the 1992 Barcelona Games. Semifinals are scheduled for Thursday, when USA will meet Australia.

USA: Diana Taurasi 15, Candace Parker 12+7 boards, Sylvia Fowles 12
Canada: Kimberley Smith 13+6 boards, Chelsea Aubry 10, Courtnay Pilypaitis 6


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

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Katie MATTERA
  Zhejiang
  (202-C-82)
  Avg: 25.5
 1. Mattera, Zhejiang25.5 
 2. Miao, Shenyang25.2 
 3. Ji, Heilongjiang24.8 
 4. Little, Shanghai24.8 
 5. Taylor, Yunnan23.5 
 6. Ji, Shandong23.2 
 7. Shi, Shanghai19.9 
 8. Sun, Henan19.5 
 9. Bian, Zhejiang19.0 
 10. Cash, Guangdong18.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Katie MATTERA
  Zhejiang
  (202-C-82)
  Avg: 14.7
 1. Mattera, Zhejiang14.7 
 2. Black, Shandong12.4 
 3. Junaid, Heilongjia.12.2 
 4. Ruili, Liaoning11.0 
 5. Cash, Guangdong10.6 
 6. Jaeschke, Jiangsu10.2 
 7. Little, Shanghai10.1 
 8. Taylor, Yunnan9.5 
 9. Anosike, Beijing9.1 
 10. Chen, Bayi6.7 
Assists Per Game
 Lan BIAN
  Zhejiang
  (185-G/F-86)
  Avg: 5.2
 1. Bian, Zhejiang5.2 
 2. Chen, Jiangsu5.2 
 3. Miao, Shenyang5.0 
 4. Ji, Heilongjiang4.2 
 5. Wang, Shanghai3.6 
 6. Cash, Guangdong3.6 
 7. Wen, Bayi3.3 
 8. Kim, Beijing3.3 
 9. Zhang, Heilongjiang3.1 
 10. Li, Jiangsu3.1 
Steals Per Game
 Shuang ZHAO
  Shenyang
  (188-F-90)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. Shuang, Shenyang2.7 
 2. Anosike, Beijing2.4 
 3. Wang, Shanghai2.4 
 4. Little, Shanghai2.3 
 5. Bian, Zhejiang2.2 
 6. Miao, Shenyang2.2 
 7. Liu, Yunnan2.1 
 8. Zhang, Beijing2.1 
 9. Li, Jiangsu2.0 
 10. Zhai, Yunnan1.9 
Blocks Per Game
 Lindsay TAYLOR
  Yunnan
  (203-C-81)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Taylor, Yunnan2.4 
 2. Black, Shandong1.9 
 3. Ruili, Liaoning1.9 
 4. Mattera, Zhejiang1.6 
 5. Anosike, Beijing1.5 
 6. Cash, Guangdong1.4 
 7. Wei, Guangdong1.3 
 8. Jaeschke, Jiangsu1.3 
 9. Junaid, Heilongjia.1.0 
 10. Nuo, Jiangsu1.0 


2012 Olympics: Australia heads to Semifinals - by Eurobasket News

AUSTRALIA - CHINA 75-60

Australia handed 75-60 loss to China and advanced to the Semifinals of 2012 Olympic Games in London. There, Australia will meet defending champion USA. Lauren Jackson (196-F/C-81), who finished with 12 points, hit a jumper with 3:46 remaining in the game that gave her 536 points - one more than former Brazil star Janeth Arcain. The four-time Olympian's record-breaking basket gave Australia a comfortable 13-point lead. Cambage Elizabeth (203-C-91) had 17 points and 7 rebounds for the Australians, while Suzy Batkovic-Brown (195-C-80) added 10 points, plus 9 boards. Australia and the United States have met in three straight Olympic finals, with the Americans winning the gold each time. Australia failed to win its group and will now have to play the favored Americans one round earlier. The teams met in the semifinals at the 1996 Atlanta Games, where the U.S. won the first its four consecutive gold medals. Ma Zengyu (183-F-84) led China with 15 points. Miao LiJie (178-F-81) scored 13 points and Chen Xiaoli (193-F-82) stopped to 9 pts. Quarters: 22-16, 13-20, 20-16, 20-8. Semifinals are scheduled for Thursday.

Australia: Cambage Elizabeth 17+7 boards, Lauren Jackson 12, Suzy Batkovic-Brown 10+9 boards
China: Ma Zengyu 15+5 boards, Miao LiJie 13, Chen Xiaoli 9


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


Dumerc leads France past Czech Republic 71-68, into women's Olympic basketball semifinals - by Eurobasket News

Celine Dumerc (169-G-82) scored 23 points and Endene Miyem scored four points down the stretch to send France to the semifinals of the women's Olympic basketball tournament with a 71-68 win over the Czech Republic on Tuesday.

Dumerc hit the go-ahead 3-pointer with 65 seconds left to make it 67-65, Miyem grabbed an offensive rebound and scored inside to make it 69-65 with 29 seconds remaining, then sank two free throws to seal the win.

France reached its first Olympic women's semifinal after overcoming a 13-point deficit. The French have continued to find ways to win and are 6-0 in the tournament. They beat Australia and Britain in overtime and they topped Canada by just four points in pool play.

Eva Viteckova (190-F-82) scored 13 of her 17 points in the third quarter, when the Czech Republic led by 13.

But Dumerc led the French comeback for a semifinal matchup against Russia on Thursday.

Courtesy of www.greenfieldreporter.com


Frisco Sika Brno announced four players - by Eurobasket News

Frisco Sika Brno announced four players for the upcoming season. The EuroLeague participant announced the first signings of the year.
Anna Jurcenkova (195-C-85), Nicole Ohlde , Veronika Vlkova (176-F/G-84) and Edita Sujanova (190-C-85) head to the team for 2012/2013 season. According to BARBORA STUCHLIKOVA 28-year-old Slovak center Anna Jurcenkova signed a contract with Frisco Sika Brno. Brno finished second behind ZVVZ USK Praha in the Czech league previous season.
Anna Jurcenkova spent nine seasons at Good Angels Kosice winning Slovak Extraliga nine times in a row. With the team she participated in EuroLeague Women. Previous season she averaged there 4,3 points and 2,8 rebounds per game. In Slovak Extraliga she finished the season with 7,3 points and 5,5 rebounds per game.
Anna Jurcenkova already expressed a will to play abroad a year ago. Then she negotiated with Lupa Promotion Novi Zagreb but the plan went awry and she stayed at Good Angels for one more season.
Besides Anna Jurcenkova, the club has brought in Nicole Ohlde (193-F/C-82, college: Kansas St.), Veronika Vlkova and Edita Sujanova. Brno, the EuroLague Champion of 2006, have confirmed participation in EuroLeague Women.
Nicole Ohlde comes from Italy. Nicole opened her fantastic career in 2003-2004 for Kansas St. (NCAA). In Minnesota Lynx she appeared in WNBA and in 34 games averaged 11.7ppg, 5.7rpg, 1.8apg, 1.3bpg, 2FGP: 44.2%, FT: 70.6%. In 2005 for Minnesota Lynx after 34 games she had 11.2ppg, 5.7rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 45.5%. In 2005-2006 she debuted in Europe for Dexia Namur (Belgium-D1, starting five) and appeared in Euroleague. After 12 games her stats read 13.8ppg, 7.8rpg, 0.9apg, FGP: 48.4%, FT: 65.6%. During summer she spent another three season for Minnesota Lynx. During spring, fall and winter she played for Perfumerias Avenida Salamanca and Valenciennes USVO. The last two season in Europe Nicole Ohlde spent in Hungary for MiZo Pecs 2010. In her last season MiZo Pecs 2010 she played in 13 games in EuroLeague and averaged 13.7ppg, 7.8rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 49.2%, FT: 77.0%. In Hungarian League after 19 games her stats read 14.8ppg, 5.3rpg, 1.8apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 58.9%, FT: 76.9%. In 2011-2012 for Liomatic Umbertide (Italy-A1) her stats read 6.5ppg, 5.4rpg, FGP: 40.3%, FT: 66.2%.



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


Frisco Sika Brno announced four players - by Eurobasket News

Frisco Sika Brno announced four players for the upcoming season. The EuroLeague participant announced the first signings of the year.
Anna Jurcenkova (195-C-85), Nicole Ohlde , Veronika Vlkova (176-F/G-84) and Edita Sujanova (190-C-85) head to the team for 2012/2013 season. According to BARBORA STUCHLIKOVA 28-year-old Slovak center Anna Jurcenkova signed a contract with Frisco Sika Brno. Brno finished second behind ZVVZ USK Praha in the Czech league previous season.
Anna Jurcenkova spent nine seasons at Good Angels Kosice winning Slovak Extraliga nine times in a row. With the team she participated in EuroLeague Women. Previous season she averaged there 4,3 points and 2,8 rebounds per game. In Slovak Extraliga she finished the season with 7,3 points and 5,5 rebounds per game.
Anna Jurcenkova already expressed a will to play abroad a year ago. Then she negotiated with Lupa Promotion Novi Zagreb but the plan went awry and she stayed at Good Angels for one more season.
Besides Anna Jurcenkova, the club has brought in Nicole Ohlde (193-F/C-82, college: Kansas St.), Veronika Vlkova and Edita Sujanova. Brno, the EuroLague Champion of 2006, have confirmed participation in EuroLeague Women.
Nicole Ohlde comes from Italy. Nicole opened her fantastic career in 2003-2004 for Kansas St. (NCAA). In Minnesota Lynx she appeared in WNBA and in 34 games averaged 11.7ppg, 5.7rpg, 1.8apg, 1.3bpg, 2FGP: 44.2%, FT: 70.6%. In 2005 for Minnesota Lynx after 34 games she had 11.2ppg, 5.7rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 45.5%. In 2005-2006 she debuted in Europe for Dexia Namur (Belgium-D1, starting five) and appeared in Euroleague. After 12 games her stats read 13.8ppg, 7.8rpg, 0.9apg, FGP: 48.4%, FT: 65.6%. During summer she spent another three season for Minnesota Lynx. During spring, fall and winter she played for Perfumerias Avenida Salamanca and Valenciennes USVO. The last two season in Europe Nicole Ohlde spent in Hungary for MiZo Pecs 2010. In her last season MiZo Pecs 2010 she played in 13 games in EuroLeague and averaged 13.7ppg, 7.8rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 49.2%, FT: 77.0%. In Hungarian League after 19 games her stats read 14.8ppg, 5.3rpg, 1.8apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 58.9%, FT: 76.9%. In 2011-2012 for Liomatic Umbertide (Italy-A1) her stats read 6.5ppg, 5.4rpg, FGP: 40.3%, FT: 66.2%.



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


Dumerc leads France past Czech Republic 71-68, into women's Olympic basketball semifinals - by Eurobasket News

Celine Dumerc (169-G-82) scored 23 points and Endene Miyem scored four points down the stretch to send France to the semifinals of the women's Olympic basketball tournament with a 71-68 win over the Czech Republic on Tuesday.

Dumerc hit the go-ahead 3-pointer with 65 seconds left to make it 67-65, Miyem grabbed an offensive rebound and scored inside to make it 69-65 with 29 seconds remaining, then sank two free throws to seal the win.

France reached its first Olympic women's semifinal after overcoming a 13-point deficit. The French have continued to find ways to win and are 6-0 in the tournament. They beat Australia and Britain in overtime and they topped Canada by just four points in pool play.

Eva Viteckova (190-F-82) scored 13 of her 17 points in the third quarter, when the Czech Republic led by 13.

But Dumerc led the French comeback for a semifinal matchup against Russia on Thursday.

Courtesy of www.greenfieldreporter.com


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


A1: Transfer news from the division - by Chris Mammides

Sony Athinaikos
The permanent champions agreed financial terms with Afroditi Kosma (187-F/C-83) ex player of Panathinaikos Athens, Aikaterini Spatharou (172-G-83), Thaleia Kasapoglou (173-G-84), Milena Vukicevic (188-F/C-80), Efi Kazantzidou (177-G-84), Elina Iskioglou (189-C-86), and the veteran Tatiana Zotova (196-F-70) who will be 42 this season! The team of Sony Athinaikos has renewed the contract of May Kay Kotsopoulos (178-G-88, college: Vermont), Lolita Lymoura (180-G-85), Katerina Sotiriou (187-F-84), Vassiliki Daskalopoulou (178-G/F-84), Katerina Chalikia (185-F-79), Zoi Kechagia (170-G-79), Sofia Kiriakopoulou (185-F-81)

Panathinaikos Athens
The second team and the surprise of last season team of Panathinaikos Athens agreed to renew the contract of Diana Delva (188-F/C-88, college: Hartford), Aristea Maglara (168-G-83), Elena Vlani (174-G-86), Dimitra Kalentzou (174-G-78), Ioanna Hronopoulou, Evgenia Kotoula (182-F/C-86), Ioanna Diela (175-F-90), Foteini Priona (175-SG-94), and the 16 years old Fenia Lapsana (180-F-96)

Terpsithea Glyfadas
The newcomer in the A1 agreed financial terms with Natali Plumbi (168-G/F-81) who is coming back after one year abroad whe she gained many experiences,and she was very close to sign with Panathinaikos Athens finaly she ended up in Terpsithea Glyfadas. The newcomers agreed financial terms with the following players: Fedra Skiadopoulou (191-C-90) (new transfer),DYiota Dragonea (184-F-84) (renewed contract), Maria Panagiotopoulou (187-C-83) (renewed contract), Flora Zevahirgian (182-F-88) (renewed contract), Anna Spyridopoulou (182-F-88) (new transfer), Eleana Pantazi (177-G-83) (renewed contract), Polina Stabourlou (178-F-86), (renewed contract), and Alexia Botsari (175-G-83) (renewed contract)

GAC Eunikos (ex DASAL)
The renamed team of DASAL agreed financial terms with Thalia Petropoulou (175-SG-81), Garifallia Plavoukou (185-F-85)

Panionios Athens
The team of Panionios agreed financial terms with Christina Navrozidou (176-G-92), head coacha will be Nikos Tolias

Ikaros Kallitheas / Esperides
The newlly merged team agreed financial terms with the champion with the team of AEL Limassol last season Asimina Koutsounouri (190-C-87)

Aris Thessalonikis
The North Hellas team agreed to renew the contract of Niki Hatzakou (175-G-82), Evangelia Kotopodi (188-F/C-87), Roula Mouli (177-G-85)
Asteras Exarheion Athens
The new head coach to replace Keramidas is the young Harris Koulouriotis, and the player Theodora Panteli (183-F-87, college: Binghamton)

AO Ellinikou
The team agreed to have as new head coach Eleni Kapogianni and the first player to agree with was Evina Stamati (180-F-84) and the American Breanna Brock (187-F-90), Tania Chalivera (178-G-85), Marianna Axiopoulou (180-F-84) and Katerina Spathari (172-G-81)

Kronos Agiou Dimitriou
The team agreed financial terms with Whitney Hanley (172-G). Head Coach will be Theodoros Orfanidis and the youngster Anna-Maria Manta (170-PG-97) signed from Esperides to Kronos

AS PAOK Thessalonikis

The other North Hellas team agreed financial terms with two of the most talented Cypriot girls as the Raca sisters are officially AS PAOK Thessalonikis's players. They are both itnernational with the Cyprus U16 team even though they are only 12 and 14 and the older sister is also international with the Cyrpus Women's team!! Ivana Raca (170-SG-99) and Tijana Raca (176-SG-97)


*****************************************************
  NIGERIA   


TED Ankara officially adds Nigerian F Mactabene Amachree - by Eurobasket News

TED Ankara continues with signings for the next season. Their latest addition is Nigerian Mactabene Amachree (190-G-78, college: Abil.Christian). She will be used at position 3. Amachree spent last season with Homend Antakya Belediyesi averaging 7.8 points, 5.8 rebounds and 1.8 assists for 22 TKBL games. In 2010/11, Amachree was a member of Samsun. There she had 7.9 ppg and 5.3 rpg for 22 appearances. Before Samsun, Mactabene Amachree spent one year with Mersin and one with Ted Kayseri. She also has experience from Besiktas, Tarsus, Migros and CSKA Moscow. Mactabene Amachree played for the Nigerian NT three years ago at AfroBasket in Madagascar. In 2005, they won AfroBasket Gold together.


*****************************************************
  OLYMPIC GAMES   

Standings - Women

Standings
Group A
1. USA5-0
2. Turkey4-1
3. China3-2
4. Czech Rep.2-3
5. Croatia1-4
6. Angola0-5
Group B
1. France5-0
2. Australia4-1
3. Russia3-2
4. Canada2-3
5. Brazil1-4
6. U.Kingdom0-5

Quarter-Finals: Round 6

Aug. 7: USA - CAN 91-48
Aug. 7: AUS - CHN 75-60
Aug. 7: FRA - CZE 71-68
Aug. 7: TUR - RUS 63-66

Semi-Finals: Round 7

Aug. 9: AUS - USA
Aug. 9: RUS - FRA
Aug. 9: AUS - USA


Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Erika DE SOUZA
  BRA
  (197-C-82)
  Avg: 16.2
 1. De Souza, BRA16.2 
 2. Leedham, ENG16.2 
 3. Dumerc, FRA15.8 
 4. Chen, CHN15.7 
 5. Stafford, ENG15.2 
 6. Viteckova, CZE15.2 
 7. Jackson, AUS14.7 
 8. Cambage, AUS14.5 
 9. Mandir, CRO14.0 
 10. Smith, CAN13.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Clarissa DOS SANTOS
  (187-C-88)
  Avg: 9
 1. Dos Santos, BRA9.0 
 2. De Souza, BRA8.8 
 3. Charles, USA7.7 
 4. Parker, USA7.7 
 5. Osipova, RUS7.5 
 6. Yilmaz, TUR7.2 
 7. Manuel, ANG7.2 
 8. Horakova, CZE6.8 
 9. Chen, CHN6.7 
 10. Batkovic-B., AUS6.5 
Assists Per Game
 LiJie MIAO
  (178-F-81)
  Avg: 6.5
 1. Miao, CHN6.5 
 2. Bird, USA5.2 
 3. Vardarli, TUR4.5 
 4. Thorburn, CAN4.5 
 5. Pinto, BRA4.4 
 6. Hammon, RUS3.8 
 7. Dumerc, FRA3.5 
 8. O''Hea, AUS3.3 
 9. Lelas, CRO3.2 
 10. Rodrigues, BRA3.2 
Steals Per Game
 Jelena IVEZIC
  CRO
  (182-F/G-84)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Ivezic, CRO2.8 
 2. McCoughtry, USA2.7 
 3. Leedham, ENG2.4 
 4. Horakova, CZE2.0 
 5. Alben, TUR1.8 
 6. Moore, USA1.5 
 7. Catchings, USA1.5 
 8. Dumerc, FRA1.5 
 9. Yilmaz, TUR1.5 
 10. Rodrigues, BRA1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Sandrine GRUDA
  FRA
  (193-C-87)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Gruda, FRA2.3 
 2. Cambage, AUS1.8 
 3. Burgrova, CZE1.7 
 4. De Souza, BRA1.6 
 5. Parker, USA1.5 
 6. Ivankovic, CRO1.4 
 7. Stewart, ENG1.4 
 8. Osipova, RUS1.3 
 9. Fagbenle, ENG1.2 
 10. Kulichova, CZE1.0 



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


Becky Hammon leads Russia to Semifinals in London - by Eurobasket News

TURKEY - RUSSIA 63-66

Russia eliminated Turkey today in the Olympic Games Quarterfinals. It will be third straight Olympics Semis for Russia. The Russians have had to settle for the bronze medal in 2004 and 2008 - falling to USA each time. After finishing third in their group, Russia avoided a potential matchup with the Americans until the gold medal game - if both teams advance. Becky Hammon (175-PG-77, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Colorado St.) stepped up for Russia with 19 points and 5 assists. Anna Petrakova (189-PF-84) (7 rebs), Eugeniya Belyakova (182-SF-86) (5 rebs) and Natalia Vieru (198-C-89) helped with 10 points each. In the loosing squad, Nevriye Yilmaz (194-C-80) was better than the others with 22 points and 5 rebounds. Birsel Vardarli (174-G-84) (6 as) and Quanitra Hollingsworth (196-C-88, college: VCU) netted 12 points each. With the game tied at 62, Becky Hammon got the ball and drove down the lane, scoring with 13 seconds left and drawing the foul. Hammon missed the free throw and Quanitra Hollingsworth got the rebound. Hollingsworth, who became a naturalized Turkish citizen in May, was fouled and made one of two free throws to make it a 1-point game. The Russians couldnt put the game away, hitting only two of its four free throws in the final 12 seconds giving Turkey one last chance, but Birsel Vardarli's 3-pointer from the wing bounced off the rim. Quarters: 16-23, 12-11, 23-17, 12-15. Russia will meet France or Czech Republic in the Semifinals. Both Semifinals games will be played on Thursday. The other pair is USA - Australia.

Turkey: Nevriye Yilmaz 22+5 boards, Birsel Vardarli 12+6 as, Quanitra Hollingsworth 12
Russia: Becky Hammon 19+5 boards, Anna Petrakova 10+7 boards, Eugeniya Belyakova 10+5 boards, Natalia Vieru 10


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


Aleksandra Stanacev in All Tournament First Team for U18 - by Tamara Ruzic

Aleksandra Stanacev (167-PG-94) all together with Serbian U18 team wins a bronze medal in European Championship in Romania. Stanacev also receives the title of the best point guard and was selected in the first team of All Tournament for U18 in Romania. Her top performance was 24 points, 5 rebounds in wining game against Slovakia. Her former team was Sivac Bosko Filipovac, then she moved to Red Star 2011/12. Last season she played 24 games : 8.6ppg, 3.0rpg, Assists-5 (3.5apg), 2.6spg, FGP: 44.8%, 3PT: 36.8%, FT: 73.0%.
Stanacev was memeber of Serbian U16 and U18 National Team . European Championships U18 in Bucharest (Romania) -12 (Bronze): 9 games: Score-5 (14.0ppg), 3.8rpg, Assists-2 (4.4apg), 1.7spg, FGP: 49.3%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 50.0%


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


Fabianova re-signs with CUS Cagliari - by Barbora Stuchlikova

Slovak guard Barbora Fabianova (182-F-82, agency: LBM Management, college: Youngstown St.) will continute to play for Italian C.U.S. Cagliari following season.

Cagliari were relegated from A1 after two-game-fight against Basket Alcamo and after a year break will play again lower Italian league. Fabianova will start her third season with the club. In previous year she averaged 2,4 points and 1,6 rebounds per game.
Fabianova as a member of Slovak Senior Women NT participated in EuroBasket Women 2007 and 2009 qualifications. In 2012 she was invited to training camp of the team for Eurobasket Women 2013 qualification tournament, too but due to a minor injury she had to skip the competition. The 29-year-old guard is still waiting for her debut at EuroBasket Women.


Jurcenkova is heading to Czech Brno - by Barbora Stuchlikova

28-year-old Slovak center Anna Jurcenkova (195-C-85) signed a contract with Frisco Sika Brno. Brno finished second behind ZVVZ USK Praha in the Czech league previous season.
Jurcenkova spent nine seasons at Good Angels Kosice winning Slovak Extraliga nine times in a row. With the team she participated in EuroLeague Women. Previous season she averaged there 4,3 points and 2,8 rebounds per game. In Slovak Extraliga she finished the season with 7,3 points and 5,5 rebounds per game.
Jurcenkova already expressed a will to play abroad a year ago. Then she negotiated with Lupa Promotion Novi Zagreb but the plan went awry and she stayed at Good Angels for one more season.
Besides Jurcenkova, the club has brought in Nicole Ohlde (193-F/C-82, college: Kansas St.), Veronika Vlkova (176-F/G-84) and Edita Sujanova (190-C-85). Brno, the EuroLague Champion of 2006, have confirmed participation in EuroLeague Women.


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

Stats Leaders - LFB

Points Per Game
 D''Andra MOSS
  Gran Canaria
  (178-SG-88)
  Avg: 20.2
 1. Moss, Gran Canaria20.2 
 2. Mosby, Cajarural17.4 
 3. Ferrari, Mariana17.1 
 4. Traore, Mariana16.7 
 5. Bonner, Perfumer.15.7 
 6. De Souza, Perfumer.15.6 
 7. Ross, Cadi I.14.7 
 8. Jones, Rivas Ecopo.14.5 
 9. Robinson, Girona14.4 
 10. Morrison, Burgos14.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Angelica ROBINSON
  Girona
  (196-F-87)
  Avg: 11.5
 1. Robinson, Girona11.5 
 2. Ble, Gran Canaria10.7 
 3. Morrison, Burgos10.6 
 4. Hajdune Csas., Mar.10.2 
 5. De Souza, Perfumer.9.9 
 6. Szczechowiak, Ibi.9.8 
 7. Lyttle, Ros Casar.8.3 
 8. Mosby, Cajarural7.9 
 9. Jones, Rivas Ecopo.7.5 
 10. Vega, Girona7.4 
Assists Per Game
 Lorena INFANTES
  Burgos
  (171-PG-81)
  Avg: 5.4
 1. Infantes, Burgos5.4 
 2. Ocete, Mariana5.1 
 3. Palau, Ros Casares4.3 
 4. Dominguez, Ros C.4.1 
 5. Morales, Ibiza3.9 
 6. Jordana, Girona3.6 
 7. Ferrari, Mariana3.5 
 8. Xargay Casad., Per.3.4 
 9. Moore, Ros Casares3.3 
 10. Ouvina, Mann Filt.3.0 
Steals Per Game
 Adrianne ROSS
  Cadi I.
  (173-G-84)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Ross, Cadi I.2.6 
 2. Ouvina, Mann Filter2.0 
 3. Lyttle, Ros Casar.1.9 
 4. Cruz, Rivas Ecopol.1.9 
 5. Murphy, Ros C.1.9 
 6. Morales, Ibiza1.8 
 7. Allison, Burgos1.8 
 8. Parham, Cajarural1.8 
 9. Ygueravide, Hondar.1.7 
 10. Moore, Ros Casar.1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Erika DE SOUZA
  Perfumer.
  (197-C-82)
  Avg: 1
 1. De Souza, Perfumer.1.0 
 2. Robinson, Girona1.0 
 3. Denti, Ibiza0.9 
 4. De Ciman, Cadi I.0.9 
 5. Bonner, Perfumer.0.8 
 6. Morrison, Burgos0.7 
 7. Hajdune Csas., Mar.0.7 
 8. Parham, Cajarural0.7 
 9. Adams, Real C.Vigo0.7 
 10. Jones, Rivas Ecop.0.6 


The Spanish LORENA INFANTE PLAY IN THE SERIES A1 ITALIAN IN CESTISTICA AZZURRA ORVIETO - by Lino Lopez

The Spanish LORENA INFANTE PLAY IN THE SERIES A1 ITALIAN IN CESTISTICA AZZURRA ORVIETO

Lorena is a very creative player, is a leader and a winner.

This season has played 35:42 minutes per game, 9.7 points per game and 5.4 assists per game

The player will have his first experience in Italy this season after playing in Jopisa Ciudad de Burgos in Spain.

Lorena has been one of the best guards in the league and try to continue to demonstrate their quality in Italy




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  TURKEY   


TED Ankara officially adds Nigerian F Mactabene Amachree - by Eurobasket News

TED Ankara continues with signings for the next season. Their latest addition is Nigerian Mactabene Amachree (190-G-78, college: Abil.Christian). She will be used at position 3. Amachree spent last season with Homend Antakya Belediyesi averaging 7.8 points, 5.8 rebounds and 1.8 assists for 22 TKBL games. In 2010/11, Amachree was a member of Samsun. There she had 7.9 ppg and 5.3 rpg for 22 appearances. Before Samsun, Mactabene Amachree spent one year with Mersin and one with Ted Kayseri. She also has experience from Besiktas, Tarsus, Migros and CSKA Moscow. Mactabene Amachree played for the Nigerian NT three years ago at AfroBasket in Madagascar. In 2005, they won AfroBasket Gold together.


Becky Hammon leads Russia to Semifinals in London - by Eurobasket News

TURKEY - RUSSIA 63-66

Russia eliminated Turkey today in the Olympic Games Quarterfinals. It will be third straight Olympics Semis for Russia. The Russians have had to settle for the bronze medal in 2004 and 2008 - falling to USA each time. After finishing third in their group, Russia avoided a potential matchup with the Americans until the gold medal game - if both teams advance. Becky Hammon (175-PG-77, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Colorado St.) stepped up for Russia with 19 points and 5 assists. Anna Petrakova (189-PF-84) (7 rebs), Eugeniya Belyakova (182-SF-86) (5 rebs) and Natalia Vieru (198-C-89) helped with 10 points each. In the loosing squad, Nevriye Yilmaz (194-C-80) was better than the others with 22 points and 5 rebounds. Birsel Vardarli (174-G-84) (6 as) and Quanitra Hollingsworth (196-C-88, college: VCU) netted 12 points each. With the game tied at 62, Becky Hammon got the ball and drove down the lane, scoring with 13 seconds left and drawing the foul. Hammon missed the free throw and Quanitra Hollingsworth got the rebound. Hollingsworth, who became a naturalized Turkish citizen in May, was fouled and made one of two free throws to make it a 1-point game. The Russians couldnt put the game away, hitting only two of its four free throws in the final 12 seconds giving Turkey one last chance, but Birsel Vardarli's 3-pointer from the wing bounced off the rim. Quarters: 16-23, 12-11, 23-17, 12-15. Russia will meet France or Czech Republic in the Semifinals. Both Semifinals games will be played on Thursday. The other pair is USA - Australia.

Turkey: Nevriye Yilmaz 22+5 boards, Birsel Vardarli 12+6 as, Quanitra Hollingsworth 12
Russia: Becky Hammon 19+5 boards, Anna Petrakova 10+7 boards, Eugeniya Belyakova 10+5 boards, Natalia Vieru 10


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  WNBA   


2012 Olympics: USA destroys Canada 91-48 in the Quarterfinals - by Eurobasket News

USA - CANADA 91-48

USA advanced to the Semifinals of 2012 Olympic Games in London. The Americans turned up the defensive pressure to beat Canada with huge 91-48. Diana Taurasi (6'0''-SG-82, college: Connecticut) led the winners with 15 points and Candace Parker (6'4''-C-86, college: Tennessee) added 12 points, plus 7 rebounds. Sylvia Fowles (6'6''-C-85, college: LSU) also scored 12 points in this meeting. At the other side, Kimberley Smith (6'1''-F-84, college: Utah) responded with 13 points and 6 rebounds in defeat. Chelsea Aubry (6'2''-F-84, college: Nebraska) was their second scorer with 10 pts and Courtnay Pilypaitis (6'1''-G-88, college: Vermont) stopped to 6. USA took control on its rival from he beginning and never looked back. Quarters: 19-8, 23-13, 26-10, 23-17. The Americans held Canada to the fewest points the U.S. has given up in an Olympic quarterfinals since beating Slovakia 58-43 in 2000. The U.S. hasnt lost to Canada since playing in the 1975 world championship tournament. Also, the victory was the 39th straight for the Americans in Olympic play and came 20 years to the day after the win that started the streak - a 88-74 victory over Cuba for the bronze medal in the 1992 Barcelona Games. Semifinals are scheduled for Thursday, when USA will meet Australia.

USA: Diana Taurasi 15, Candace Parker 12+7 boards, Sylvia Fowles 12
Canada: Kimberley Smith 13+6 boards, Chelsea Aubry 10, Courtnay Pilypaitis 6