EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 8/9/2012 1:04:01 AM

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Men News

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  ABA   



2012 Northeast Showcase Announced - by Surujh Roopnarine

Four teams from the ABA Northeast Division have joined forces to hold a combined player combine/tryout for the 2012-13 ABA season.
The Staten Island Vipers, New York City Thunder, Jersey Express and Connecticut TopBallerz player personnel and management will convene on Saturday, August 25 at the West Side Park Gym in Newark, New Jersey for the one-day event.

Last season both Connecticut and Staten Island advanced to the ABA Playoffs, and the Jersey Express are one of the most long-standing and successful franchises in the ABA. Combine that with the New York City Thunder who always bring their best to the court each season and the four-team Showcase will be sure to be a destination for the Tri-State areas top talent.

Pre-registration is $100, with on-site registration $125. To register go to:
http://www.eventbrite.com/event/1912669847?ref=ebtnebregn

'With the departure of the NBA's NJ (Brooklyn) Nets from the area, I, along with the other owners in the division felt that having a divisional showcase just made sense. Bringing the

tri-state talent together for not only the Express, but also for the Vipers, Thunder and TopBallerz, to be able to evaluate the players all under one roof' stated Marsha Blount,
Owner of the Jersey Express.

Trevor Hairston, Co-Owner of the Connecticut TopBallerz 'after a successful inaugural season in 2011-2012, we are looking to work with our northeast division, to expand the ABA brand within the tri-state area. Working with our Division Chairman NJ Express Marsha and SI Vipers Ayanna and Kyle, we are looking to evaluate talent all in one place,
creating top competition in a professional atmosphere'.

Ayanna Phillip, Co-Owner of the Staten Island Vipers stated 'having a Regional Showcase instead of individual team tryouts benefits our conference as well as the ABA. It's an
advantage for the local talent to have a better opportunity to showcase their skills for each team in the Northeast Division and it gives us a wider selection of players that will be able
to compete on a pro level'.

To register, log onto: http://www.eventbrite.com/event/1912669847?ref=ebtnebregn Space is limited, pre-register NOW to ensure entry into the Showcase! For registration information, go to www.jerseyexpress.net, www.sivipers.com or www.topballerz.net. For more information on the ABA, log onto www.ABALive.com.


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  ADRIATIC LEAGUE   


Ivan Ramljak stays with Siroki WWin - by Eurobasket News

Ivan Ramljak (203-F-90) will stay with Siroki WWin for the next season. The player verbally agreed terms with Cibona Zagreb earlier this summer, but the Croatian champion had deadline until August 1st to pay the buy-out fee and they didnt do it, according to Sirokis Head Coach Ivan Velic. Also, it seems that Darko Planinic (211-C-90) stays with the club, despite he was in contact with Cibona and Maccabi Tel Aviv.
Ivan Ramljak played 26 games in Adriatic league last season averaging 7.8 points and 5.1 rebounds. The player also added 7.6 ppg, 4.1 rpg and 2.6 spg in domestic championship. Ramljak and Siroki won three Bosnian league titles together and two Cup trophies. He joined the club in 2009 from Posusje.
Darko Planinic is a product of Siroki. He had 11.8 ppg, 4.4 rpg and 3.2 spg last season in Bosnia. Planinic was named Eurobasket.com All-Bosnia and Herzegovina League Center of the Year -12.


Bojan Krstovic joins Radnicki Kragujevac - by Rado Markovic Hribernik

The rumors about it have spread in the previous days and today it became official. Bojan Krstovic (194-G-80, agency: Interperformances), who played the previous season in Montenegro for KK Buducnost Voli Podgorica, was confirmed as the new reinforcement of Radnicki Kragujevac for the following season, as he had penned a one-year contract.

Krstovic will be another great refinforcement for Radnicki after Australian NT captain Mark Worthington (202-PF-83, college: Metro St.) had joined the club earlier. In the previous season he performed well for the Montenegrin side, averaging 8.3 points, 1.7 rebounds and 1.5 assist per game.

Radnicki is, according to reports in talks also with Serbian big man Rasko Katic (208-C-80, agency: Beo Basket), who played the previous season for BC Partizan MT:S Beograd and also with former Serbian international Igor Rakocevic (193-G-78), who is wanted by Crvena Zvezda Beograd also.



Radnicki Kragujevac lands Milos Borisov - by Zoran Popovic

Management of Radnicki Kragujevac decides to signs contract with Milos Borisov (201-F-85). Former Hemofarm forward Borisov last season spent in Italy, Banca Tercasa Teramo team and on 30 games in Italian Championship average scored 9.7 points, 4.9 boards per game. Milos Borisov started career in Hemofarm junior team and played for them 8 seasons. In season 2004 - 2005. Borisov win Adriatic league with Hemofarm Vrsac. Milos Borisov is member of Montenegro National team.


Predrag Suput in Cedevita - by Zoran Popovic

Serbian forward Predrag Suput (200-F-77, agency: Beo Basket) will continue career in Cedevita Zagreb. Last season Predra Suput played for Brose Basket and on 10 games in Euroleague average scored 10.9 points, 4.1 boards, 1.5 assists in German league on 40 games average scored 8.4 points, 2.8 boards and 1.8 assists. During the career Suput played for Spartak Subotica, Vojvodina Novi Sad, Partizan Beograd, Hemofarm Vrsac and 5 seasons for Brose Baskets Bamberg.


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  ARGENTINA   


Olympics 2012: Argentina defeat Brazil to enter semis - by Eurobasket News

Argentina - Brazil 82:77

Argentina will play at Olympic basketball tournament semifinal. They overcame their archrivals Brazil in the quarterfinal clash tonight. Luis Scola (204-PF-80) knocked down 17 points to pace the winners.
The lead changed hands for several times throughout intense first quarter. Marcelinho Huertas (191-PG-83, agency: Edge Sports) capped it with a three-pointer to give Brazil a 26:23 lead. Argentina gained a 35:30 lead midway through the second frame. Carlos Carlos Delfino (200-SF-82) crowned the first half with a free throw as Argentina gained a 46:40 lead. Argentina tipped off the second half on an 8:3 run to take a 54:44 lead. The margin soon grew at 15-point mark before Brazil cut it back to 10 points with ten minutes remaining 54:64. Nene Hilario and Leandrinho Barbosa (190-PG-82) put Brazil within 4 points 66:70 with just five minutes remaining. Garcia dragged Brazil within two but Emanuel Ginobili (198-SG-77, agency: Interperformances), Luis Scola, Carlos Delfino and Prigioni knocked down 8 straight free throws late in regulation to seal the victory for Argentina. Carlos Delfino and Emanuel Ginobili provided 16 points each for the winners. Marcelinho Huertas and Leandrinho Barbosa had 22 points apiece for Brazil.

Argentina: Luis Scola 17, Carlos Delfino 16, Emanuel Ginobili 16
Brazil: Marcelinho Huertas 22, Leandrinho Barbosa 22


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  AUSTRALIA   


Hawks sign three - by Hugh McAuliffe

The Wollongong NRE Hawks today have officially announced the re-signing of the final three key core returning players for the 2012/13 iinet NBL Championship season.

Glen Saville (197-F/G-76), Dave Gruber (198-F-81, college: N.Iowa) and Daniel Jackson (200-F-88) will all be returning to your Wollongong NRE Hawks in 2012/13. These re-signings see the return of all Australian core players from last season apart from retiring captain Mat Campbell.

We have a belief that we have a quality group of Australian players that can deliver on and off court for our club, Head Coach Gordie McLeod said.

The most important part moving forward is working together as a group and everyone competing at their highest level consistently. As a team we have a strong belief in one another and when our group is performing at a high level together, weve competed very well against the other teams, he added.

Veteran Glen Saville will be entering his 18th season with the Wollongong NRE Hawks, a fantastic feat for one of the Hawks and Australian basketballs all time greatest players.

Last year we didnt have the year we all wanted, we know that. As players, we know we all have to lift this season and work even harder on the court. The younger guys like Tyson Demos, Rhys Martin & Tim Coenraad have all been having very productive off-seasons and have been showing some good signs this preseason as well, Saville said of the playing group returning.

For us right now its about getting in shape this pre-season, working through our structures and being prepared to take on the challenges of the season ahead. The fire is there for us, we all want to improve on last season, Saville added.

Dave Gruber will be entering his 4th season with the Wollongong NRE Hawks and Daniel Jackson will be taking part in his 6th season with his local home town club. With the contracted returning Australian players now confirmed the club is looking to fill two import positions, with Head Coach Gordie McLeod having returned from a US scouting visit recently.

We have our returning core of Australian guys locked in and set from last season. We are now in the process of looking at two imports that can fit in, provide production and compliment the group we have, McLeod said.

Were well down the path of one of the import positions and we hope to make a decision in the coming weeks. In addition, were looking at available young Australian talent to fill another spot on our roster, he added.

The Hawks tip off pre-season this Friday night against Washington State University, 7:30pm at the Snakepit.


Olympics 2012: USA cruise past Australia into semifinal - by Eurobasket News

USA - Australia 119:86

USA completed semifinal picture at the Olympic basketball tournament. They knocked down Australia to earn the spot in the semifinal clash versus Argentina.
Kevin Durant opened the scoring with a three-pointer but the Boomers reacted adequately and soon surged ahead. The teams stayed close before the USA surged ahead for a 19:12 lead. Team USA soon opened a 10-point lead at 26:16. But Patrick Mills (6'0''-PG-88, college: St.Mary's, CA) put Australia within 7 points at the first break 21:28. Kevin Durant opened the second term with a triple and Team USA shortly accumulated a 12-point lead. They kept the Boomers at distance in the second quarter posting a 56:42 lead at halftime. Australia surprised USA with an 11:0 run at the start of the second half. Kevin Durant stopped the bleeding with a three-pointer. Kobe Bryant (6'6''-SG-78) then drilled back-to-back three-pointers for the USA as they earned a 70:58 lead midway through the third term. USA entered the fourth frame up by 14 points 84:70. They stayed in control in the final frame. The Boomers tried hard but could not threaten the margin at the dying stages of the game. Kobe Bryant topscored with 20 points. Deron Williams (6'3''-PG-84, college: Illinois) added 18 points, while Carmelo Anthony (6'8''-SF-84, college: Syracuse) had 17 points. LeBron James (6'8''-SF-84) accounted for triple-double of 11 points, 14 boards and 11 assists in the win. Patrick Mills answered with 26 points for Australia. Joe Ingles (6'8''-SF-87, agency: Priority Sports) had 19 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists in the loss.

USA: Kobe Bryant 20, Deron Williams 18, Carmelo Anthony 17, LeBron James 11+14 boards+11 assists
Australia: Patrick Mills 26, Joe Ingles 19


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  AUSTRIA   


Austrian U18 National Team 2012 - by Greg

Austrian U18 National Team 2012
#s#
Timur Bas
Bas
Valentin Bauer
Bauer
Elmir Brkic
Brkic
Djordje Djordjevic
Djordjevic
Armin Domitner
Domitner
#e#5
Timur Bas 198-PF-94 Dornbirn Austria
Valentin Bauer 180-PG-94 Klosterneub. Austria
Elmir Brkic 203-F/C-95 Gmunden Austria
Djordje Djordjevic 194-F-94 Wels Austria
Armin Domitner 201-C-94
Benedikt Guettl 188-G-94 Arkadia Austria
Lorenz Haas 195-SF-94
Adam Hammerschmidt 192-F-94 St.Polten Austria
Thomas Knor 195-G/F-94 Gussing Austria
Patrick Kolb 200-F-94 Wels Austria
Laurence Muller
Florian Pelc 175-PG-95 Arkadia Austria
Jakob Poltl 208-PF-95 Vienna Timb. Austria
Fabian Richter 189-G-95 Furstenfeld Austria
Jakob Seifert 200-C-95
Marko Soldo 190-G-95 Vienna Timb. Austria
Georg Wolf 188-SG-95 Oberwart Austria

Gerald Vogler Head Coach Furstenfeld Austria
Chris O'Shea Assistant Gmunden Austria



David Hasenburger returns to Furstenfeld - by Eurobasket News

David Hasenburger (203-F-90) is back to Furstenfeld Panthers after one year. The Austrian big guy penned a deal for the next season. He spent the last one with BC Vienna, but appeared just in 11 games. Hasenburger had very limited playing time averaging less than a point. In 2010/11 season, the player had 1.8 ppg in 24 games with Furstenfeld. They reached A Bundesliga Semifinals. In the past, Hasenburger spent few years with Oberwart. David Hasenburger played for Austrian U20 National Team in 2009. Before that, he was a member of U18 and U16 Austria. Few days ago Furstenfeld signed a deal with Heinz Kuegerl.


St. Polten adds Martin Kohlmaier and Thomas Csebits - by Eurobasket News

St. Polten announced signing of Martin Kohlmaier (218-C-84) and Thomas Csebits (192-G-89) for the upcoming season. Both players arrive from WBC Raiffeisen Wels.
Martin Kohlmaier had 6.2 ppg and 3.8 rpg for 30 games in A Bundesliga last season. He already played for St. Polten in 2007/08 and 2009/10. The center had 17.4 ppg and 7.8 rpg in their first year together. Season 2010/11 Kohlmaier spent with Uppsala Basket in Sweden. He appeared 39 times in Basketligan collecting 15 points and 6.9 rebounds. The player joined St. Polten in December on 2009 collecting 16 ppg and 4.9 rpg for 19 games.
Thomas Csebits spent last five years with Wels. He had 3 ppg and 1.1 apg for 33 games in the latest one. In the past, Csebits played for Kapfenberg. He also was a member of Austrian youth National Teams.


Corey Hallett signed with Raiffeisen Wels - by Eurobasket News

Corey Hallett (208-F/C-84, college: Monmouth) signed with Raiffeisen Wels for the upcoming season. The Canadian Big Man moves to Austria.
The season 2011-2012 he appeared for BCM U Pitesti (Romania-Div.A, starting five) and showed 6.1ppg, 3.7rpg, FGP: 66.7%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 58.3%. In Dec.'11 moved to Onyx Levice (Slovakia-Extraliga, starting five) and after 17 games averaged 8.1ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 42.0%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 72.7%. He also played for Astrum Levice (Czech Rep.-NBL, starting five) and after 12 games had 7.1ppg, 2.8rpg, FGP: 62.8%, 3PT: 43.8%, FT: 76.9%.
Earlier Corey Hallett played for BC Prievidza and BasketClubs Vienna (Austria). While playing 32 games for Vienna last season he averaged 10.4ppg and 5.3rpg. Hallett is a very experienced player. He played also pro basketball in Austria, Hungary, New Zealand and Canada. In Austria with Vienna he recorded averages of 10.4ppg, 5.3rpg, FGP: 53.0%, 3PT: 36.6%, FT: 67.9% in 32 games played.


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  BELARUS   


Belarusian U18 National Team 2012 - by Greg

Belarusian U18 National Team 2012
#s#
Ivan Aladka
Aladka
Dzmitry Astashou
Astashou
Yauheni Beliankou
Beliankou
Pavel Bliznets
Bliznets
Kiryl Chumakou
Chumakou
#e#5
Ivan Aladka 186-PG-95
Dzmitry Astashou 195-SF-94
Yauheni Beliankou 194-SF-95
Pavel Bliznets 205-C-94 Sozh Gomel Belarus
Kiryl Chumakou 194-SF-95
Viktar Ilyukevich 203-PF-94
Siarhei Kazlou 201-C-95
Pavel Lialkou 197-SF-94
Luka Malakhau 185-PG-94 Minsk-2006 II Belarus
Yahor Patupchyk 191-SG-94 Sozh Gomel Belarus
Yahor Salenik 195-F-94
Kiryl Stsiapanau 187-PG-94
Artsiom Tarasau 183-G/F-94
Anton Vashkevich 203-F/C-94 Minsk-2006 II Belarus
Tsimafei Yeusiyevich 190-SF-95

Ruslan Baidakov Head Coach Rubon Belarus
Mikalai Fakeyeu Assistant



Belarus beat Ukraine in Tbilisi - by Eurobasket News

Belarus-Ukraine 75:65

Belarus beat Ukraine in Tbilisi in Day 2 of the International Tournament. Belarus overcame Fratello's team 75:65 as the latter fell at 1-1 record.
Belarus dominated the first quarter and led 24:13 after the first 10 minutes of the game. They had 34:24 midway through the second frame and increased to 12 points at the halftime. Moreover the lead continued to grow in the third period as Belarus enjoyed 45:32 in the middle of the third. They closed the quarter at 60:44 and increased almost to 20 points with 5 minutes to go. Ukraine however managed to reduce to 10 at the end of the game.
Pavel Ulyanko (204-F/C-79) top-scored for the winners with 19 points and Aliaksandr Kudrautsau (190-G-80) notched 16. Artsiom Parakhouski (211-C-87, college: Radford) posted 12, while Aliaksei Lashkevich added 9. Sergii Gladyr (196-G/F-88) finished the game with 18 points in the losing effort, while Kyryl Natyazhko (210-C-90, agency: Beo Basket, college: Arizona) as well as Igor Zaytsev (210-F/C-89) delivered 10 points apiece. Maxym Korniyenko (205-F/C-87) followed them with 8 points.

Belarus: Pavel Ulyanko 19, Aliaksandr Kudrautsau 16, Artsiom Parakhouski 12, Aliaksei Lashkevich 9
Ukraine: Sergii Gladyr 18, Kyryl Natyazhko 10, Igor Zaytsev 10, Maxym Korniyenko 8


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  BELGIUM   


Belgian U18 National Team 2012 - by Greg

Belgian U18 National Team 2012
#s#
Charly Bernard
Bernard
Romain Boxus
Boxus
Glen Camps
Camps
Naim El Khounchar
El Khounchar
Alexandre Eyenga
Eyenga
#e#5
Charly Bernard 190-F-94 Natoye Belgium
Romain Boxus 198-F-96
Glen Camps 201-F/C-95
Naim El Khounchar 193-F-94 Vilvoorde Belgium
Alexandre Eyenga 186-SG-95
Xavier Francois 200-C-94
Mathijs Gijbels 204-PF-95
Louis Hazard 199-F-94 CEP Fleurus Belgium
Vincent Kesteloot 198-F-95
Emmanuel Lecomte 180-PG-95 Kangor.-Boom Belgium
Arno Mollekens 195-PF-94 Kangor.-Boom Belgium
Maxime Notelaers 182-PG-95
Maxime Pretto 191-SG-94 M.Hainaut II Belgium
Maxence Renard 180-G-94 M.Hainaut II Belgium
Stijn Stevens 177-G-94 Ieper Belgium
Sander Van Caeneghem 209-C-95
Mathias Van Steenwinkel 200-F-94 Kangor.-Boom Belgium
Andy Van Vliet 210-C-95
Maxime Verspeeten 187-SG-94 Oostende Belgium
Donovan Walasiak 182-PG-95 M.Hainaut Belgium

Etienne Louvrier Head Coach Carnieres Belgium
Steven Ibens Assistant



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  BOSNIA   


Bosnia and Herzigovina U18 preview! - by Chris Mathieu

Bosnia and Herzigovina U18 preview!
Bosnia U16 team from last year showed great success and some surprises in last years U16 Championships. Most of the core of that group has now moved up to the U18 Championships this season with high hopes and a new coach in the well-respected Nenad Markovic.
The games are being held in Sarajevo a distinct advantage for this years team and the hopes are high that the team will be promoted to Division A next season.
Many of last years key players moved up like the surprising Adi Zahiragic, Nedim Buza, Stefan Glogovac and Adnan Vrabac.
Jusuf Nurkic the surprising big man who has burst onto the scenes this year should be the leader of this years team. His friend Emir Sulejmanovic wasnt granted his release from Slovenia and wont be able to join his friend this year.
Marko Vukovic, Asim Ahmedic, Nedim Salcin and a few others round out the team with high hopes.
Bosnia was placed in a tough group and will face a huge test starting with Belguim in the first game.


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  BRAZIL   


Center Atilio is back in Rio Claro - by Paulo Freire

The director board of Rio Claro Basketball announced the hiring of big man Atilio de Mello (203-C-82) who played the last edition of NBB on Franca.
The center of 2,00m heigh and 30 years old, already played in Rio Claro, where he played the last Paulista State. The player who had averaged 3.7 points, 1.3 rebounds and 0.15 assists while playing 7.6 minutes in the last NBB. He is ready to start practicing with head coach Marcelo Tamiao and the new teammates.


Olympics 2012: Argentina defeat Brazil to enter semis - by Eurobasket News

Argentina - Brazil 82:77

Argentina will play at Olympic basketball tournament semifinal. They overcame their archrivals Brazil in the quarterfinal clash tonight. Luis Scola (204-PF-80) knocked down 17 points to pace the winners.
The lead changed hands for several times throughout intense first quarter. Marcelinho Huertas (191-PG-83, agency: Edge Sports) capped it with a three-pointer to give Brazil a 26:23 lead. Argentina gained a 35:30 lead midway through the second frame. Carlos Carlos Delfino (200-SF-82) crowned the first half with a free throw as Argentina gained a 46:40 lead. Argentina tipped off the second half on an 8:3 run to take a 54:44 lead. The margin soon grew at 15-point mark before Brazil cut it back to 10 points with ten minutes remaining 54:64. Nene Hilario and Leandrinho Barbosa (190-PG-82) put Brazil within 4 points 66:70 with just five minutes remaining. Garcia dragged Brazil within two but Emanuel Ginobili (198-SG-77, agency: Interperformances), Luis Scola, Carlos Delfino and Prigioni knocked down 8 straight free throws late in regulation to seal the victory for Argentina. Carlos Delfino and Emanuel Ginobili provided 16 points each for the winners. Marcelinho Huertas and Leandrinho Barbosa had 22 points apiece for Brazil.

Argentina: Luis Scola 17, Carlos Delfino 16, Emanuel Ginobili 16
Brazil: Marcelinho Huertas 22, Leandrinho Barbosa 22


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  BULGARIA   


Pavlin Ivanov presented in Buducnost, takes N28 - by Maria Mitzova

Bulgarian top prospect Pavlin Ivanov (195-G-93, agency: Beo Basket) was presented officially as new signing of KK Buducnost Voli Podgorica. U20 captain signed his contract during the Junior Championship in Sofia, three weeks ago.
Ivanov was presented together with the other two newcomers in KK Buducnost Voli Podgorica - Dee Bost (187-G-89, college: Mississippi St.) and Dusko Bunic (207-C-89, agency: Beo Basket).
Pavlin will wear number 28, as his birth date, in Podgorica.
"I hope I can help this team to achieve results, but I also think the club will help me a lot to develop my game for the future", said Ivanov at the pressconference KK Buducnost Voli Podgorica had organized.
On Wednesday, Ivanov will make his first practice with KK Buducnost Voli Podgorica.


Second loss for Bulgaria in Chomutov - by Vladi Lazarova

Bulgarian Men's National Team conceded a second loss at the International tournament in Chomutov (Czech Republic), this time with 75:76 from Slovakia. At the start of the competition on Tuesday Bulgarians lost with 84:94 from Holland.

Against Slovakia, Bulgaria missed 13 free throws and finished with 16/29 from the line. American with Bulgarian passport Cedric Simmons (206-F/C-86, college: N.Carolina St.) was the best scorer for the National team with 17 points. Bulgarian champion Lukoil Academic forward Pavel Marinov (197-G-88, agency: Interperformances) added 13 points. Tonight is the last game in Chomutov for Bulgaria, their last opponent is the host squad of Czech Republic.

Bulgaria is preparing for Eurobasket 2013 qualifications. They start at 15th August, when the team will host Sweden in the first game of Group B in Sofia.




Nizhny Novgorod brings in Filip Videnov - by Eurobasket News

Filip Videnov (196-F/G-80, agency: Alti Sport, college: W.Kentucky) will continue his career in Russia. The Bulgarian guard signed a deal with Nizhny Novgorod. Videnov arrives to the club from Olin Edrine, where he spent last season. He appeared 23 times in Turkish TBL averaging 14 points, 3.4 rebounds and 3.1 assists. The guard also added 17.5 ppg, 2.5 apg and 2 rpg for two EuroChallenge appearances. Before Olin Edrine, Filip Videnov spent one year with Asseco Prokom. They won the Polish league title together. In the past, he played for FMP Zeleznik, Crvena Zvezda, Gran Canaria, Rieti, Real Madrid etc. Filip Videnov is active member of the Bulgarian National Team since 2002. Last summer in Lithuania he had 13.4 ppg and 5.2 rpg for 5 games.


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  CANADA   


Corey Hallett signed with Raiffeisen Wels - by Eurobasket News

Corey Hallett (208-F/C-84, college: Monmouth) signed with Raiffeisen Wels for the upcoming season. The Canadian Big Man moves to Austria.
The season 2011-2012 he appeared for BCM U Pitesti (Romania-Div.A, starting five) and showed 6.1ppg, 3.7rpg, FGP: 66.7%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 58.3%. In Dec.'11 moved to Onyx Levice (Slovakia-Extraliga, starting five) and after 17 games averaged 8.1ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 42.0%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 72.7%. He also played for Astrum Levice (Czech Rep.-NBL, starting five) and after 12 games had 7.1ppg, 2.8rpg, FGP: 62.8%, 3PT: 43.8%, FT: 76.9%.
Earlier Corey Hallett played for BC Prievidza and BasketClubs Vienna (Austria). While playing 32 games for Vienna last season he averaged 10.4ppg and 5.3rpg. Hallett is a very experienced player. He played also pro basketball in Austria, Hungary, New Zealand and Canada. In Austria with Vienna he recorded averages of 10.4ppg, 5.3rpg, FGP: 53.0%, 3PT: 36.6%, FT: 67.9% in 32 games played.


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  CROATIA   


Italy overcame Croatia in Trieste - by Eurobasket News

Italy-Croatia 78:70

Italy overcame Croatia in Trieste in a friendly game between two teams. The hosts started well and had a strong finish for 78:70 win.
Italy won the first period 22-14 and increased the lead to 37:24 with 5 minutes in the half. Croatia managed to reduced to 5 points for 42:37 at the halftime. Moreover Bojan Bogdanovic (203-G/F-89) tied the game at 47:47 from the perimeter. Croatia started to play better and managed to win the third period 17-16. Bojan Bogdanovic brought 68:66, while Cinciarini and Angelo Gigli (209-F/C-83) increased to 6 points. Daniele Cavaliero (188-G-84) and Aradori brought the final points for the home side.
Jeffrey Viggiano (197-F-84, college: Massachusetts) top-scored for the winners with 12 points, while Cinciarini, Daniele Cavaliero, Stefano Mancinelli (203-F-83) and Angelo Gigli posted 8 each. Bojan Bogdanovic erupted with 31 points in the losing effort. Markota and Zoric followed him with 8 points apiece.

Italy: Daniele Cavaliero 8 (0/2,2/4), Stefano Mancinelli 8 (4/6,0/3), Poeta 4 (0/1 da tre), Vitali, Cusin 8 (3/6), Datome 5 (1/2,1/4), Magro ne, Angelo Gigli 8 (3/7), Chessa 3 (0/1,1/2), Cinciarini 8 (1/2), Jeffrey Viggiano 12 (2/3,2/2), Hackett 6 (1/3,1/2), Polonara ne, Chiotti 4 (2/3), Aradori 4 (2/3,0/1). Allenatore: Simone Pianigiani. Assistente: Luca Dalmonte.
Croatia: Andric 5 (2/5), Vrbanc (0/1,0/1), Bojan Bogdanovic 31 (7/8,2/5), Rok Stipcevic (184-PG-86) 2 (1/2,0/1), Rudez (0/3,0/2), Babic 2 (1/1), Simo 6 (0/1,0/1), Markota 8 (2/5,1/1), Pilepic 4 (1/3 da tre), Zoric 8 (2/8), Planicic ne, Ramljak 4 (2/2,0/1), Marcinkovic ne. Allenatore: Jasmin Repesa. Assistente: Sunara. (stats courtesy www.fip.it)


Cedevita adds Goran Suton - by Eurobasket News

Cedevita Zagreb continues with signings for the next season. Their latest addition is Goran Suton (209-C-85, college: Michigan St.). Earlier this summer the team already brought in Predrag Suput (200-F-77, agency: Beo Basket), Bracey Wright (191-G-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Indiana), Marko Tomas (201-G-85) and Luksa Andric (210-C-85, agency: Beo Basket).
Goran Suton played last season for Cibona Zagreb. He had 10.2 ppg and 6.6 rpg for them in 20 Croatian league games. Suton added 9.3 ppg and 5.2 in Adriatic league, plus 5.7 ppg and 4 rpg in EuroCup. He helped Cibona to win the title in Croatia. Before Cibona, Goran Suton spent one year with Angelico Biella. There he had 9 ppg and 7.4 rpg for 35 games. In 2009/10, he played for Spartak St. Petersburg. Goran Suton is a product of Michigan State University, where he graduated three years ago. He had 10.1 ppg and 8.2 rpg for his school as a senior.


Ivan Ramljak stays with Siroki WWin - by Eurobasket News

Ivan Ramljak (203-F-90) will stay with Siroki WWin for the next season. The player verbally agreed terms with Cibona Zagreb earlier this summer, but the Croatian champion had deadline until August 1st to pay the buy-out fee and they didnt do it, according to Sirokis Head Coach Ivan Velic. Also, it seems that Darko Planinic (211-C-90) stays with the club, despite he was in contact with Cibona and Maccabi Tel Aviv.
Ivan Ramljak played 26 games in Adriatic league last season averaging 7.8 points and 5.1 rebounds. The player also added 7.6 ppg, 4.1 rpg and 2.6 spg in domestic championship. Ramljak and Siroki won three Bosnian league titles together and two Cup trophies. He joined the club in 2009 from Posusje.
Darko Planinic is a product of Siroki. He had 11.8 ppg, 4.4 rpg and 3.2 spg last season in Bosnia. Planinic was named Eurobasket.com All-Bosnia and Herzegovina League Center of the Year -12.


Cibona returns Ivan Tomas - by Eurobasket News

Cibona Zagreb added another player to its roster for the upcoming season. The reining Croatian champion signed a deal with its former player Ivan Tomas (193-G-81). He is brother of Marko Tomas, who signed for Cedevita Zagreb yesterday.
Ivan Tomas spent last season with Zabok. He appeared 27 times in Croatian league registering 10.4 ppg, 3.1 apg and 2.2 rpg. Season 2010/11 Tomas started with Zadar, but they parted ways in December. He won the title with Cibona Zagreb in 2010, despite he joined them in March that year. It was their second Croatian league title together. The first one Tomas and Cibona won in 2007. Meanwhile, Ivan Tomas played for Krka, Lokomotiv Rostov, Fuenlabrada, Siroki and PAOK. He also has experience from Panellinios, Lietuvos Rytas and Zagreb.


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


EUROCHALLENGE DRAWN - by Dr. Nasios Orinos

The EuroChallenge 2012/13 season was officially launched in Freising, Germany last Friday with the competition Draw.

The Regular Season begins on November 6th and will feature 32 clubs, divided in 8 groups of 4 teams each. The Regular Season groups are:

GROUP A: Krka (SLO) ETHA Engomi (CYP) Pinar Karsiyaka (TUR) QUALIFIER 4
GROUP B: Krasnye Krylia (RUS) Keravnos (CYP) Asesoft Ploesti (ROU) QUALIFIER 1
GROUP C: BK Ventspils (LAT) Dolphins (SWE) Tampereen Pyrint (FIN) Sdertlje BBK (SWE)
GROUP D: Khimik Yuzhny (UKR) University Tartu (EST) JDA Dijon (FRA) QUALIFIER 3
GROUP E: Belfius Mons (BEL) Okapi Aalstar (BEL) Paris Levallois (FRA) BCMU Pitesti (ROU)
GROUP F: Szolnoki Olaj (HUN) EWE Baskets (GER) Fortress-Lami (HUN) BC Timisoara (ROU)
GROUP G: Gravelines (FRA) BC Minsk 2006 (BLR) SLUC Nancy (FRA) QUALIFIER 2
GROUP H: Antwerp Giants (BEL) Telekom Baskets (GER) Armia Tblisi (GEO) Hapoel Holon (ISR)

28 teams were drawn directly into the Regular Season groups. 4 others will emerge following the EuroChallenge Qualifying Round, which features 8 clubs in total and will fight for qualification over two legs, home and away.

Games will take place on September 25th and on October 2nd.

The Qualifying Round pairings are:
QUALIFIER 1: Aliaga Petkim (TUR) v Joensuun Kataja (FIN)
QUALIFIER 2: Apollon Limassol (CYP) v Xion Dukes Klosterneuburg (AUT)
QUALIFIER 3: Ural Ekaterinburg (RUS) v GAZ Metan Medias (ROU)
QUALIFIER 4: Tofas (TUR) v Rakvere Tarvas (EST)

Source: www.fibaeurope.com


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  CZECH REPUBLIC   


Czech Republic U18 National Team 2012 - by Greg

Czech Republic U18 National Team 2012
#s#
Karel Ausprunk
Ausprunk
Jakub Cejpek
Cejpek
Jiri Dedek
Dedek
Lukas Festr
Festr
Michael Fronek
Fronek
#e#5
Karel Ausprunk 200-F-94 Plzen Czech Republic
Jakub Cejpek 204-C-94 BK Pardubice Czech Republic
Jiri Dedek 191-SG-95 NH Ostrava Czech Republic
Lukas Festr 188-PG-94 USK Praha Czech Republic
Michael Fronek 190-G/F-94 Plzen Czech Republic
Pavel Grunt 207-C-94 USK Praha Czech Republic
Petr Herman 204-PF-94 BK Pardubice Czech Republic
Michal Honzak 182-PG-94 Liberec Czech Republic
Marian Hrabovsky 198-G/F-94 Prostejov B Czech Republic
Matej Kohout 195-SG-94 Sokol Prazsky Czech Republic
Radovan Kouril 185-PG-95 Lucentum Spain
Ondrej Kral 185-SG-94 Moravska Ostr. Czech Republic
Jan Krivanek 203-PF-94 USK Praha Czech Republic
Martin Lukac 198-F-94 Moravska Ostr. Czech Republic
Adam Pechacek 207-F/C-95 Canadian S. BO Italy
Martin Peterka 203-PF-95 BK Pardubice Czech Republic
Matej Rubes 196-SF-95 Proton Zlin Czech Republic
Petr Safarcik 192-G-94 USK Praha Czech Republic
Prokop Slanina 204-C-95 Prostejov B Czech Republic
Jiri Soula 188-G-95 BK Pardubice Czech Republic
Jan Svandrlik 197-SF-94 Clinicas Rincon Spain
Daniel Truhlar 201-PF-94 USK Praha Czech Republic
Radek Ulehla 94 Vysehrad Czech Republic

Jan Ulrych Head Coach Vysehrad Czech Republic



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


Danish Player of the Year joins Maccabi Haifa - by Christian Hamborg

After two succesful seasons in Svendborg Rabbits, Chanan Colman (191-G-84, college: Chipola) will continue his career in Israel for Maccabi Bazan Haifa on a 2-year contract.

Chanan Colman has had a long and rather succesful career and has played in Denmark, Finland, Germany and Israel. Among his Awards/Achievements are Finnish League Champion -05, 06, Finnish Cup Winner -05, EuroCup Challenge Semifinals -06 and Finnish League Semifinals -09.
Playing for Svendborg in the 10/11 season Chanan Colman had an injury plagued season but still managed to be a Danish Cup Finalist and a Danish League Finalist. In the 11-12 season a healthy Chanan Colman was one of the best - if not the best - players in the league and averaged 15.7 pts, 4.1 rebs and 4.6 assists. Chanan Colman was a Danish cup winner and took Svendborg Rabbits to the Danish League Finals where the team lost. Chanan Colman was selected as Danish League Player of the Year by the players and was also elected Eurobasket.com All-Danish Ligaen Honorable Mention and Eurobasket.com Danish Ligaen All-Domestic Players Team.


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


Skyforce to announce new Head Coach on Friday - by Eurobasket News

On Friday Sioux Falls Skyforce will announce who will be their Head Coach in 2012/13 season. Below is the official release by the club.

What: Press conference to announce new head coach.

Who: Mike Heineman, Owner/President, Sioux Falls Skyforce

Head Coach, Sioux Falls Skyforce

When: Friday, Aug. 10, 2012

Time: 12:30 p.m. CT

Where: Heather Ridge Village

69th St. & Western Ave.

Sioux Falls, SD

Fans are encouraged to attend and lunch will be provided by Look's Market.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com


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  DOMINICAN REPUBLIC   

Standings - District National

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

Regular Season: Round 8

Aug. 7: Cocolos - Huracanes 95-94
Aug. 7: Metros - Caneros 70-82
Aug. 8: Reales - Cocolos
Aug. 8: Titanes - Indios SF



*****************************************************
  ESTONIA   


Georgia post the second straight win - by Eurobasket News

Georgia post the second straight win at the International Tournament in Tbilisi. The home side beat Estonia 84:71 in Day 2 for 2-0 record on top. The Estonian team fell at 0-2 record on the bottom of the group.
Georgia won the opening period 23-18 and added another 25-18 in the second frame. They won also the third quarter 22-15 and did not mind 14-20 in the last stanza.
Tornike Shengelia (207-F-91) top-scored for the winners with 20 points and 9 rebounds. Reinar Hallik (208-C-84) posted 16 points for Estonia and Gert Dorbek (194-G-85) notched 15. Siim-Sander Vene (203-F-90, agency: Alti Sport) delivered 12, while Kristjan Kangur (201-F-82) ended up with 10 points.
In another game Belarus beat Ukraine in Tbilisi in Day 2 of the International Tournament. Belarus overcame Fratellos team 75:65 as the latter fell at 1-1 record.


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


Cibona returns Ivan Tomas - by Eurobasket News

Cibona Zagreb added another player to its roster for the upcoming season. The reining Croatian champion signed a deal with its former player Ivan Tomas (193-G-81). He is brother of Marko Tomas, who signed for Cedevita Zagreb yesterday.
Ivan Tomas spent last season with Zabok. He appeared 27 times in Croatian league registering 10.4 ppg, 3.1 apg and 2.2 rpg. Season 2010/11 Tomas started with Zadar, but they parted ways in December. He won the title with Cibona Zagreb in 2010, despite he joined them in March that year. It was their second Croatian league title together. The first one Tomas and Cibona won in 2007. Meanwhile, Ivan Tomas played for Krka, Lokomotiv Rostov, Fuenlabrada, Siroki and PAOK. He also has experience from Panellinios, Lietuvos Rytas and Zagreb.


Budivelnyk officially announces Delaney and Salenga - by Eurobasket News

As expected, Budivelnyk Kyiv officially announced signing of Malcolm Delaney (191-G-89, college: Virginia Tech). The news was first reported by Eurobasket's David Pick. Delaney led Chalon for French ProA title last season. He shined with 15 ppg, 3.3 apg and 3.1 rpg for 35 games. The player had pretty close numbers for 16 EuroChallenge games as well. Chalon won two more trophies last season: Semaine des As and French Cup. They reached EuroChallenge Finals. It was the first professional deal for Malcolm Delaney, who graduated at Virginia Tech University something more than a year ago. He had 18.7 ppg, 4 apg and 3.5 rpg for his school as a senior. Delaney was even better in his junior season with Virginia Tech. At that time he had 20.2 ppg, 4.5 apg and 3.7 rpg for 33 games.
Transfer of Dainius Salenga (197-F-77) to Budivelnyk Kyiv also became official today. He arrives to the club from Zalgiris Kaunas. Salenga was named to Eurobasket.com Baltic League All-European Players Team -12.
Earlier this week Budivelnyk brought in Emmanuel Jones (200-F-85, college: UTPA) for try-out. At the end of July the former Ukrainian champion landed Tony Skinn (191-G-83, college: George Mason). Last season Skinn played for Ironi Ashkelon averaging 10.6 points, 2.9 assists and 2.7 rebounds in Israeli Premier league.


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


Maccabi Tel Aviv Sign 5-Year Deal With Itay Segev - by David Pick

European power Maccabi Tel-Aviv signed Israel's U18 national team '6"8 guard-forward Itay Segev (Agency: Avi Zilberman) to a 5-year deal, as reported by local news agency Safsal.

Segev, who's currently with Israel's youth team in Sarajevo, Bosnia, for the upcoming European Championship games, celebrated his 17th birthday this past June, becoming the youngest member on the squad. He's expected to play for Tel Aviv's junior and senior teams, and travel to all the European competition games with David Blatt's squad.

Segev joined Israel's Wingate Academy Basketball Program two years ago and is expected to relocate to Tel Aviv, according to his agent Avi Zilberman. Growing up, Segev became a force at the point guard position but was forced to learn to play the forward's roll after growing 11 centimeters in 10 months.

Eurobasket informs that Segev's contract holds a number of out-clauses, the first one during the summer of 2014-2015, after Segev completes his military duties and becomes eligible for the NBA Draft, which according to sources, he plans to attend.




Matt Nielsen remains with BC Khimky - by Eurobasket News

Matt Nielsen (208-PF-78, agency: Beo Basket) remains with BC Khimky for the next season. The Australia star will stay in Russia.
In 2011-2012 for BC Khimky Moscow Region (Russia-PBL) he averaged 2.9ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.2apg in EuroCup and in VTB League showed 3.5ppg, 2.4rpg. In Russian League after 19 games his stats read 2.8ppg, 2.4rpg, 1.6apg.
Matt Nielsen spent the season 2010 with Olympiakos. He had 9 ppg and 3.8 rpg for the Reds in 16 Greek league games. In Euroleague, Nielsen added 4.4 ppg and 2.9 rpg. He helped Olympiacos to defend the Greek Cup trophy this year. Season 2009/10, Matt Nielsen spent with Valencia. He led them to EuroCup title with 9.6 ppg, 4.8 rpg and 2.5 apg. In ACB, Nielsen added 8.8 ppg, 4.3 rpg and 2.9 apg for 36 games. From 2005 until November of 2009, Nielsen was a member of Lietuvos Rytas. In the past, he also played for PAO and Sydney Kings. With Rytas, Nielsen won three Baltic league titles and one trophy in LKL. Matt Nielsen is active member of the Australian NT since 2000.


Panathinaikos tabs Kitchen - by Chris Mammides

The Greek power house of Panathinaikos Athens which is experiencing a once in a lifetime situation with just two players remaining from last season's team (Diamantidis and Tsartsaris) have agreed financial terms with the ex guard of Maccabi Rishon Le-Zion, Derwin Kitchen (193-G-86, college: Florida St.). The American guard can easily play both guard positions and had an excellent season with his team as they end up in the third position of the regular season with Kitchen being the top scorer and the top rebounder of the team. In more details his numbers were as follows: 15 points per game, 7 rebounds, 3.3 assists and nearly two steals per game, a true team-player, low profile and above all very dedicated to the sport with great team-spirit.

Pedoulakis and his coachign team will be able to see how the player will react in an upgrade level and tougher obligations like Panathinaikos has, as every year with the same targets.

Very soon the team of Panathinaikos is expected to announce at least another two Greek players and two Americans (one of them will be a power forward/center)


Cedevita adds Goran Suton - by Eurobasket News

Cedevita Zagreb continues with signings for the next season. Their latest addition is Goran Suton (209-C-85, college: Michigan St.). Earlier this summer the team already brought in Predrag Suput (200-F-77, agency: Beo Basket), Bracey Wright (191-G-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Indiana), Marko Tomas (201-G-85) and Luksa Andric (210-C-85, agency: Beo Basket).
Goran Suton played last season for Cibona Zagreb. He had 10.2 ppg and 6.6 rpg for them in 20 Croatian league games. Suton added 9.3 ppg and 5.2 in Adriatic league, plus 5.7 ppg and 4 rpg in EuroCup. He helped Cibona to win the title in Croatia. Before Cibona, Goran Suton spent one year with Angelico Biella. There he had 9 ppg and 7.4 rpg for 35 games. In 2009/10, he played for Spartak St. Petersburg. Goran Suton is a product of Michigan State University, where he graduated three years ago. He had 10.1 ppg and 8.2 rpg for his school as a senior.


Asseco Prokom keeps Szczotka, Hrycaniuk and Witka - by Eurobasket News

Asseco Prokom officially extended deals with Piotr Szczotka (196-F-81, agency: Alti Sport), Adam Hrycaniuk (206-C-84, agency: Alti Sport, college: Cincinnati) and Robert Witka (205-F-81).
Piotr Szczotka arrived to the club in 2008 from Energa Czarni Slupsk. Last season he had 4.4 ppg and 2.7 rpg for 25 PLK games. He had pretty close numbers in VTB United League and slightly lower digits for 10 Euroleague appearances. He was named Eurobasket.com All-Polish League Defensive Player of the Year -12. Szczotka had 1.8 ppg and 1 rpg for 5 games with the Polish National Team at 2011 EuroBasket in Lithuania.
Adam Hrycaniuk joined Asseco Prokom also in 2008 and it was his first professional deal. Hrycaniuk shined last season with 9.5 ppg and 8.3 rpg for 25 PLK games. His numbers were lower in VTB and Euroleague. The player had 11 ppg and 6 rpg for 5 games at the EuroBasket in Lithuania.
Robert Witka will play his third straight season with Asseco Prokom. In the latest one he had 3 ppg and 1.5 rpg for 10 PLK games.


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


KORISLIIGA: Charles Burgess back to Finland - by Rauno Hurmalainen

American PG Charles Burgess (186-G-84, college: Texas Tech) and Top League newcomer FoKoPo (Forssa) have signed a 1-year-contract for coming 2012-13 season. Burgess played first time in Finland 2009-10 on Vilpas (Salo) roster averaging then 16,6 ppg - 7,1 rpg - 3,5 apg - 1,5 spg. Later Burgess helped his team (Bakken Bears) in Denmark to win Danish Cup and to become Danish Champion. Last season Burgess played in Germany (USC Heidelberg - ProA) and averaged 14,4 ppg, 4,6 rpg and 4,3 apg.
In Division 1. Ura Basket (Kaarina) has inked with American swingman Bobby Nash (198-G/F-84). Nash has played professionally in Japan and shortly in Germany (Wohnbau) after his college years at U. of Hawaii (-08).
YMCA Oulu, also in Division 1A, has signed with American PG Russell Frederick (185-G-88, college: Philadelphia, NCAA2). Frederick made All-CACC 1st Team 2009 + 2010 and has played shortly in Poland.


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


Vichy land Justin Reynolds - by Eurobasket News

Vichy bolstered their frontcourt. The team has agreed on terms of contract with Justin Reynolds (204-F/C-88, college: Texas A&M-CC). The centre spent the last season in FYR Macedonia. He played for Torus Skopje. Justin Reynolds tallied 13.8 points, 7.6 boards and 1.1 steals per game in Superleague. In Balkan League the centre notched 12.4 points, 8.0 rebounds and 1.3 steals per appearance. He earned All-Balkan League Honourable Mention. Justin Reynolds also made it into All-Macedonian League 1st Team. Justin Reynolds participated at Higher Level Sports International Showcase in summer 2011. He was named HLSA Showcase MVP.


Olympics 2012: Spain survive quarterfinal thriller against France - by Eurobasket News

Spain - France 66:59

Spain became the second semifinalists of Olympic Games basketball tournament. They prevailed against France in a dramatic battle in London. The victory set up Spain vs. Russia clash in the semifinal on Friday. Marc Gasol (216-C-85, agency: Interperformances) provided 14 points and 5 boards to lead the winners.
France cleared off to a 22:15 late in the opening quarter. Rudy Fernandez capped the period with a jumper to cut the deficit to 5 points. Les Bleus maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. They recorded a 37:34 halftime advantage. But Spain tipped off the second half with seven points in a row to take a 41:37 lead. The teams then went neck and neck throughout the reminder of the third quarter. The lead changed hands for several times before France made it 53:51 with ten minutes remaining. Serg Ibaka and Llull gave Spin a 58:57 lead midway through the final stanza. Both teams then went scoreless for almost four minutes before Rudy Fernandez and Marc Gasol made it 62:57 for Spain. Calderon and Pau Gasol (214-F/C-80) extended the lead to 9 points in the dying seconds and a jumper from Gelabale just sweetened the pill for France. Juan Carlos Navarro (192-G-80) posted 12 points, Pau Gasol added 10 points in the victory. Boris Diaw (203-PF-82) and Tony Parker (188-PG-82) responded with 15 points each for France.

Spain: Marc Gasol 14, Juan Carlos Navarro 12, Pau Gasol 10
France: Boris Diaw 15, Tony Parker 15


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  GABON   


TOUNGUI BB champion 2012 - by Rodrigue Olivier Kassa

Finally the lights went out this Friday, August 3 with the dedication of the club called Libreville: Toungui BB newly dedicated champion of Gabon in 2012. "A title that the club expects from its inception in 2002. So the year next to it will represent Gabon championship African Champions. for this, it will strengthen in the compartments of the pivots and leaders. and make a good pre-season preparation.

MVP of the finals is the International Gabonese "Jason FANGA"


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


Georgian U18 National Team 2012 - by Greg

Georgian U18 National Team 2012
#s#
Nugzar Abuladze
Abuladze
Aleksandre Bolkvadze
Bolkvadze
Otari Buliava
Buliava
Beka Burjanadze
Burjanadze
Beka Darakhvelidze
Darakhvelidze
#e#5
Nugzar Abuladze 182-G-95 Rustavi Georgia
Aleksandre Bolkvadze 194-SF-95
Otari Buliava 202-PF-94
Beka Burjanadze 203-PF-94 Cajasol Castilleja Spain
Beka Darakhvelidze 186-SF-95
Giorgi Dvali 180-SG-95
Giorgi Dzidziguri 191-PG-94
Shota Gelazonia 205-C-94
Nodar Gogodze 190-PG-94
Levani Grdzelidze 190-SG-94
Tornike Kitoshvili 178-PG-95 Rustavi Georgia
Valeri Kvantaliani 202-PF-94 Samedicino Georgia
Zezva Liluashvili 180-PG-95
Levan Lolishvili 200-SF-94
Erekle Lortkipanidze 185-SG-95
Irakli Mikeladze 180-PG-94 Batumi Georgia
Merabi Mirziashvili 207-C-94
Beka Nadiradze 202-C-94
Giorgi Okrotchelidze 194-SF-94
Temuri Phkhadze 202-C-94
Archili Puluzashvili 200-C-95
Nika Ramishvili 181-SG-94 Batumi Georgia
Kakhaber Tomaradze 193-SG-95
Giorgi Tsirekidze 202-C-94 Kutaisi Georgia

Mikheil Beruashvili Head Coach Rustavi Georgia
Zaza Gabisonia Assistant
Gela Tsuladze Assistant Samedicino Georgia



Georgia post the second straight win - by Eurobasket News

Georgia post the second straight win at the International Tournament in Tbilisi. The home side beat Estonia 84:71 in Day 2 for 2-0 record on top. The Estonian team fell at 0-2 record on the bottom of the group.
Georgia won the opening period 23-18 and added another 25-18 in the second frame. They won also the third quarter 22-15 and did not mind 14-20 in the last stanza.
Tornike Shengelia (207-F-91) top-scored for the winners with 20 points and 9 rebounds. Reinar Hallik (208-C-84) posted 16 points for Estonia and Gert Dorbek (194-G-85) notched 15. Siim-Sander Vene (203-F-90, agency: Alti Sport) delivered 12, while Kristjan Kangur (201-F-82) ended up with 10 points.
In another game Belarus beat Ukraine in Tbilisi in Day 2 of the International Tournament. Belarus overcame Fratellos team 75:65 as the latter fell at 1-1 record.


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


David Feldmann And Max Fischer Join ETB SW Essen - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

REgionaliga team ETB SW Essen have brought in David Feldmann and Max Fischer. Feldmann is a 19 year old 188cm guard that started his basketball career with the Bochum Astro Stars (Regionalliga) in 2008. Last season, he played for BSV Wulfen (ProB): 10 games: 0.8ppg, in Dec.'11 moved to SVD 49 Dortmund (Regionalliga): 11 games: 1.9ppg. "David has always been an uncomfortable opponent. To stop him on offense was almost impossible. Despite his youth, he has a consistent shot and has a high basketball IQ. We are happy that he has joined us", stressed ETB SW Essen head coach Thomas Schnell . Max Fischer is a 21 year old 206cm center that comes from Bochum and last season played for the Dresden Titans (Regionalliga): 21 games: 3.0ppg, 2.9rpg.

Source: ETB SW Essen


Talor Battle Moves To The Italian Lega 2 - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Talor Battle (183-PG-88, college: Penn St.) continues to make a name for himself in Europe after a strong season in France and Germany, the American will drive defenders crazy in the Italian Lega 2 this season. Battle is a 23 year old 183cm guard from Albany, New York. Last season, he started the season for Cholet Basket (France-ProA)French League: 6 games: 8.0ppg, 1.7rpg, 2.5apg, FGP: 71.4%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 77.8%; EuroCup: 2 games: 2.5ppg, 2.0rpg, 1.5apg, 1.0spg; Euroleague Qualifying Round: 1 game: 23pts, 1reb, in Dec.'11 moved to Telekom Baskets Bonn (Germany-1.Bundesliga): German League: 26 games: 11.5ppg, 2.1rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 55.2%, 3PT: 37.3%, FT: 78.7%; EuroChallenge: 7 games: 11.9ppg, 1.9rpg, 3.6apg, FGP: 80.8%, 3PT: 32.3%, FT: 64.7%. In the Beko BBL, he scored in double figures 18 times including a season high 24 points against BG Goettingen. Battle now will play for Orlandina Basket in the Lega 2 in Italy.


The Fraport Skyliners Haul In Johnathon Jones - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

It has been a long summer for die hard Fraport Skyliner fans as they had to patiently wait for the first American signing after the team brought in Germans Konstantin Klein and Johannes Voigtmann, but the long wait ended today as the team announced the arrival of Johnathon Jones (183-G-88, agency: TSS Management, college: Oakland). Jones is a 24 year old 183cm point guard that was born in Magic Johnson land in Lansing Michigan and got a try-out until the end of September "Johnathon is a good boost for the team and a talented guard. He is a classic point guard that makes his teammates better. He is very determined and wants to make the next step. That is a quality that we look for our players. Together with Devin Gibson and Konstantin Klein, he completes our point guard position", stressed Fraport Skyliner head coach Muli Katzurin. Last season, he played for MBK Rieker Komarno (Slovakia-Extraliga, starting five): 42 games: 16.3ppg, 3.7rpg, Assists-4 (5.3apg), 1.8spg, FGP: 52.6%, 3PT: 41.4%, FT: 80.2%. "He has played the last two seasons in Slovakia and gotten better. After a giood rookie season, he played a strong second season with Komarno as was a league finalist. He first looks for his teammates, but also has a scoring mentality", added Skyliner sport director Kamil Novak.

Jones started his basketball career at Oakland (NCAA) in 2006 where he played until 2010 playing a total of 135 NCAA games. In his senior year, he played 35 games: 12.2ppg, 2.2rpg, 6.4apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 43.1%, 3PT: 32.5%, FT: 84.8%. At Oakland he was team captain and showed the quickness he had for four years and his ability to see the entire floor. He set school records in minutes played (4,846) and tied school record as the all-time winningest player over four-year career, 85 wins. Ranks third all-time in school history in steals (196) and 11th in league history. Stands 10th all-time in OU history in points (1,674) and 18th on the league all-time scoring list . His career .816 free throw percentage ranks 10th in league history and T4 in school history. First OU player to surpass 1,300 points and 800 assists. He started his professional basketball career in 2010 after having NBA workouts with the Indiana Pacers and Detroit Pistons. As a rookie, he played for MBK Rieker Komarno (Slovakia-Extraliga, starting five): 38 games: 11.3ppg, 3.1rpg, Assists-2 (6.4apg), 2.0spg, FGP: 47.4%, 3PT: 28.9%, FT: 80.0% . "I am happy coming to Frankfurt. The club is run well and it is an honour to play for them. The German league is very challenging with many teams playing internationally as did the Fraport Skyliners last season in the Eurocup. I want to give my best in every game and I am very determined", warned Johnathon Jones (183-G-88, agency: TSS Management, college: Oakland). Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been HS McDonald's All-America nominee -06, MCC Regular Season Runner-Up -07, MCC Tournament Finalist -07, Summit League Tournament Semifinals -08, All-Summit League 2nd Team -08, Summit League Tournament Finalist -09, Summit League All-Tournament Team -09, 10, All-Summit League 1st Team -09, 10, Summit League Regular Season Champion -10, Summit League Tournament Winner -10, NABC Division I All-District 12 1st Team -10, Eurobasket.com All-Slovakian League Honorable Mention -11, Slovakian League Finalist -12, Slovakian League Regular Season Champion -12, Slovakian Cup Finalist -12, Eurobasket.com All-Slovakian League 1st Team -12, and Eurobasket.com Slovakian League All-Imports Team -12
Source: Fraport Skyliners



Marco Grimaldi Set To Return Back To BG Goettingen - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber


According to Pro A team BG Goettingen favorite son Marco Grimaldi (188-G-83) will return back to the team. Grimaldi has been a fixture in the BG Goettingen basketball family for years playing 8 seasons in the university city. The 28 year old 188cm point guard played only 6 games last season before taking a leave of absence after a tragic accident where his girlfriend and sister were killed in a car accident following an away game in Giessen. "I am really happy that Marco Grimaldi (188-G-83) will return. I am sure that the BG Goettingen will give him a great welcome. He will be an important player for us", stated Pro Basketball Goettingen GmbH CEO Frank Meinertshagen




BG Topstars Leitershofen Bring In Walt Gibler - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

PRO B team : BG Topstars Leitershofen had to react quickly after learning the sad news that new player Blake Poole had broken his foot during a summer practice session and reeled in Walt Gibler (200-F, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement) today to replace him. Walt Gibler is a 22 year old 202cm forward from Cincinnati, Ohio that will be starting his professional basketball career in Germany. He played at Loyola (NCAA) from 2008-2012 and in his senior year played 25 games: 12.4ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 53.3%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 73.7%. He played a total of 112 NCAA games at Loyola. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been All-Horizon League Sixth Man of the Year -10


Source: BG Topstars Leitershofen


Stoimir Ivandic Joins The Walter TIgers Tuebingen - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Shortly before the start of training camp, the Walter TIgers Tuebingen have announced that Stoimir Ivandic (194-G) will be added to the roster. Stoimir Ivandic (194-G) is a 25 year old 194cm guard that has played for SV 03 Tuebingen 2nd team (Regionalliga) since 2007. Last season for the REgionaliga team he played 18 games: 8.6ppg, 3.2rpg. Tigers head coach Igor Perovic is thrilled about having the SErb join the roster. "He is a part of the team and all players are equal in practice. I know thta he is a good kid and will be agreat teammate", stressed Walter TIgers Tuebingen head coach Igor Perovic. The Serb can play the positions 2-3 and comes form the typical Serb basketball school. His biggest strength is his outside shot.

Source: Walter TIgers Tuebingen


Zintis Plivda Joins SSV Lok Bernau - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber


Regionaliga team SSV Bernau have added some international flair to their roster with Zintis Plivda (206-C-88, agency: Promotex). Zintis Plivda is a 24 year old 207cm 126 kilo forward from Latvia. Last season, he played for Latvijas Universitate (LBL): 35 games: 9.2ppg, 5.1rpg, FGP: 50.6%, 3PT: 18.2%, FT: 59.5%. "We have been looking for some time for a player that can give a physical presence on offense and defense. Zintis Plivda fits perfect into this profil and he will help us", stressed SSV Lok Bernau head coach Rene Schilling. The big man started his basketball career in 2004 for Bumerangs/Gulbene/ASK (LBL) where he played until 2008. In 2008-2009, he played for ASK/Buki Gulbene (LBL, starting five): Latvian League: 24 games: 6.5ppg, 3.7rpg, FGP: 50.8%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 57.6%; Baltic League (Challenge Cup): 11 games: 3.7ppg, 2.6rpg. "I will give my best and help lead the team too as many wins as possible. I am expecting a great season for a great team. I always have a laugh on and off the court, but when the situation gets serious, then do I also", warned Zintis Plivda. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been Baltic League D2 Finalist -05, Latvian League Semifinals -05, 06, 12, Latvian U18 National Team -06, European Championships U18 in Amaliada (Greece) -06: 6 games: 1.8ppg, 1.8rpg, Latvian U20 National Team -08, and European Championships U20 in Riga (Latvia) -08: 3 games: 5.0ppg, 2.3rpg, 1.0bpg

Source: SSV Lok Bernau


Moritz Gruber And Lukas Ferner Remain With The Giants Nordlingen - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber


PRO B team Giants Nordlingen have announced that Germans Moritz Gruber (187-F-87) and Lukas Ferner (187-F-96) will remain with the team. Gruber is a 24 year old 187cm forward that played 9 games for the club last season. Who can forget his task of guarding German talent Phillip Neumann in Breitengussbach and helping the Giants win after Dima Rastatter And Josef Eichler got into foul trouble early and mustered six points. "It makes us happy that Mo will remain. It is important for training and everyone knows how important he is. He is non replaceable and does a lot of work in the backround. He has gotten very popular through his visits in schools and blogs. We want to have him in another function with the GIants and he will decide when its time to stop. We are happy that he is here and know his worth", stressed Leo Emmert. Lukas Ferner is a 16 year old 191cm player that played for the JBBL team last season averaging 15,5ppg and 7,7rpg. "I am happy that Lukas has decided to stay with our program and I will try to help him develop further. He has the body qualities and has a good attitude. He always shows a lot of effort and he will help build the intensity in practices", stressed Giants head coach Mario Matic .

Source: Giants Noerdlingen


Bad luck continues for Cuxhaven BasCats - by Moritz Korff

The injuries of Tyrone Bradshaw (202-PF-86, agency: Fierce Sports Management, college: S.Indiana) and Maximilian Kuhle (182-PG-91) continue the string of bad luck for the Cuxhaven BasCats. Last season the 2. Bundesliga Pro A suffered from several players being sidelined. Though the 2012-13 campaign has not yet begun, coach Krists Plendiskis is experiencing a deja vu. Kuhle has suffered a torn tendon in his hand and will miss about ten weeks. Bradshaw has been slowed down by a knee injury which will keep him out of action for six weeks. According to the BasCats' website, a decision, whether to sign players to replace the duo, has not been made yet.


Tyrone Brazelton commits to Nuernberger BC - by Moritz Korff

After playing in the NBA D-League last season, Tyrone Brazelton is on his way back to Germany. The Chicago, Illinois, native will wear the jersey of Nuernberger BC (2. Bundesliga Pro A) in the 2012-13 campaign, the club confirmed. Brazelton averaged 8.4 points, 4.7 assists and 2.1 rebounds a game for the Erie Bay Hawks last season. In 2011 he had a short time stint at BBL side Eisbaeren Bremerhaven (8 games: 7.9ppg, 2.4apg). The 2008 grad of Western Kentucky played in Latvia, and Poland earlier in his pro career.
"I spent a lot of time in these past weeks finding a player who fulfills my expectations. We were looking for somebody who is able to lead a team, both as a player and as a person. Tyrone fits to that description perfectly", NBC coach Martin Ides stated.


ALBA II: Pesic remain head coach, Kufuor and Opitz named assistants - by Moritz Korff

ALBA II, the farm team of BBL powerhouse ALBA Berlin, was relegated to the 1. Regionalliga North after falling short in the Pro B play downs, but also in the lower league the team will stick to its philosophy to develop young, local talent. According to the ALBA website, the roster for the upcoming RLN season will be almost identical to the club's NBBL team.
Only two small changes have been made in the coaching staff. Milan Pesic will remain in charge of both ALBA II in the RLN as well as the NBBL squad as head coach for both teams. Longtime ALBA youth coach Norbert Opitz and Enrico Kufuor (185-G-87, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: N.Carolina St.), who played in the Regionalliga for Magdeburg and Werne last season and spent some years playing for NCAA D1 school North Carolina State, will serve as his assistants.


Three more young players for Lok Bernau - by Moritz Korff

SSV Lok Bernau (1. Regionalliga North) added three more young players to its 2012-13 roster: Yassin Mahfouz (193-F), Philipp Bednarski (202-C-89) and Elias Kroessin recently started into pre season team practice with the former Pro B side. Mahfouz averaged 10.4 points per contest for RSV Eintracht Teltow/Kleinmachnow/Stahnsdorf II (2. Regionalliga) last season and also saw action in the NBBL.
Bednarski is a big man who previously played for Future Basketball Berlin and Berlin Tiger.
Kroessin is a Berlin native who spent this past season in Hamburg, averaging 6.1 points per contest for 2. Regionalliga team TSG Bergedorf.


Duesseldorf Giants sign Brandon Griffin - by Moritz Korff

The Duesseldorf Giants (2. Bundesliga Pro A) have signed Brandon Griffin (202-F-82, college: SE Missouri St.), according to rp-online.de. Griffin reached the Pro A finals with the Kirchheim Knights last season, contributing 7.0ppg, 4.2rpg, 1.2spg and 1.1apg to the teams' success. In 2007 he was named Eurobasket.com All-2. Bundesliga North Center of the Year as a member of Mitteldeutscher BC. He then spent four years playing in the top tier division in the Netherlands, before joining the Knights in December 2011.


Marvin Adu moves to Leipzig - by Moritz Korff

Pro A newcomer Uni-Riesen Leipzig unveiled the signing of its next new player for the 2012-13 season. Marvin Adu (203-F-87) has committed to the team after completing his college career earlier this year. The 25-year-old is a native of Hamburg, Germany, who played for BC Hamburg, the Itzehoe Eagles and TSG Bergedorf, before heading over the pond. He attended Essex Community College and transferred to NCAA D1 school Prairie View A&M after his sophomore year. Last season he averaged 0.8 points per game as a senior. Adu can play on both forward spots as well as at center.
"I think that Marvin has a lot of potential. But he has played in the US for a long time - and the German leagues are a little bit different from that. But his individual skills are great. He will be a great asset to our team, when he will have earned lots of playing time over here" , Leipzig coach Ivan Vojtko said.


Coocoon Baskets welcome back Michal Rolinek - by Moritz Korff

Thanks to his physical style of play and his tireless effort, the Czech veteran Michal Rolinek (194-F-80) became a fan favorite last season, so the supporters of 1. Regionalliga South-East side Coocoon Baskets Weiden are looking forward to one more season with him. Rolinek has agreed on terms on a contract extension with the Coocoon Baskets. Throughout the 2011-12 campaign, he averaged 7.5 points and 7.3 rebounds in 26 RLSO contests.
"We are very happy, that Michal will play another year for us", Weiden coach Kevin Decker commented.


Crailsheim Merlins boost their farm team with D3 standout Marlon Miller - by Moritz Korff

Marlon Miller (180-PG-88), a 2012 graduate of NCAA Division 3 school Mary Hardin-Baylor, will start his professional career in Germany. The guard out of Belton, Texas, has signed to play for the Crailsheim Merlins Second Team, which moved up to the 1. Regionalliga South-West. Miller averaged 18 points, 3.3 rebounds, 2.1 assists and 1.4 steals per contest for Mary Hardin-Baylor last season.
This is a step that I want to take and I've always wanted to play professionally, so I am excited about the opportunity. I want to make a career for myself on and off the court and be financially stable. This is a way for me to use the gifts that God has given me to do that", Miller told cruathletics.com.


Aschersleben Tigers bring in Lithuanian playmaker - by Moritz Korff

The Aschersleben Tigers (1. Regionalliga North) added another European import to their 2012-13 squad. Vilius Sermokas (188-G-90) has joined the team. The 22-year-old Lithuanian is expected to run the point for the Tigers. He transfers from third division club Anyksciu KKSC Volupis to Aschersleben.
"He is a young player with great potential, who always wants to make improvements. He works hard and is a total team player who makes his teammates better", Tigers' coach Kamil Piechucki said.


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  GREECE   


Lagun Aro GBC extends Manolis Papamakarios for 2012/13 - by Eurobasket News

Lagun Aro GBC announced signing of Emmanouil Papamakarios (192-G-80) to a 1-year contract extension. It will be their second season together. In the latest one Papamakarios appeared 36 times in Liga Endesa averaging 3.4 points and 1.5 rebounds. He arrived to the club last summer from Panellinios Athens. The Greek guard was a member of Panellinios from 2008. He had 8.1 ppg, 2.5 apg and 2.3 rpg for 21 Greek league games in their last season together. The player had slightly lower numbers for 10 EuroCup games. From 2005 to 2008, Emmanouil Papamakarios played for Olympiakos. He also has experience from Makedonikos and Peristeri. In 2009, Papamakarios was named Eurobasket.com All-Greek A1 League Most Improved Player of the Year.


Derwin Kitchen joins Panathinaikos - by Eurobasket News

Derwin Kitchen (193-G-86, college: Florida St.) will continue his career in Greece. He has confirmed his contract with Panathinaikos. The guard spent the previous season in Israel. He played for Maccabi Rishon Le-Zion. Derwin Kitchen notched 14.9 points, 7.0 rebounds, 3.3 assists and 1.8 steals per game in Premier League. He made it into All-Israeli League 1st Team. He also participated at Israeli League All-Star Game. The guard participated at NBA Pro Summer League in Las Vegas this summer. He notched 8.3 points, 5.0 boards and 4.0 assists per game at the tournament. Derwin Kitchen graduated from the Florida State University in 2011.


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  HOLLAND   


Czech Republic edged Holland 76-63 - by Fred Roggen

The Czech Republic registered the second win in the preliminary tournament in Chomutov. The Czech overcame Netherlands 76:63. Tomas Satoransky (200-G-91) stepped up with 16 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists to lead the effort. Holland opened the game with a 11-8 run, but the Czech eked out a narrow 23-20 lead ten minutes into the game. The teams traded baskets throughout the second period. The hosts managed to ensure a 2-point lead at the interval 35-33. The Czech squad stunned Holland right after the big break. The Czech side outscored their opponents 23-15 in the third frame to boost the gap at 10-point mark with one quarter remaining. The Czech withheld a comeback pressure from Holland to clinch the second win in a row at the tournament 76-63. Tomas Satoransky (200-G-91)y notched 16 points, Petr Welsch (184-G-76) added 20 points, while Lubos Barton (202-F/G-80, college: Valparaiso) scored 12 points in the victory. Francisco Elson (212-C-76, agency: Court Side, college: California) answered with 12 points for Holland. Worthy de Jong (194-SG-88, agency: R.H.Consultancy) and Sean Cunningham (188-PG-86, agency: R.H.Consultancy, college: Cal-Riverside) netted 10 points in the losing effort.



University of Virginia win over Netherlands B-team 89-62 - by Fred Roggen

The university of Virginia opened its five-game tour of Europe with an 89-62 victory over the Netherlands B Team at the Topsportcentrum in the Amsterdam suburb of Almere
The Cavaliers opened the game strong, taking a 25-9 lead after the first 10-minute period. Virginia extended the lead to 39-21 with four minutes to play in the first half
However, the Dutch rallied with a 13-4 run to close out the half and cut the Cavalier advantage to 43-34 at the break. The third quarter opened with the Cavaliers going on a 16-2 run to gain control of the game. Virginia outscored the Dutch 20-12 in the final period, Mike Tobey led the Cavaliers with 18 points and grabbed six rebounds. Justin Anderson (199-G/F-93) notched 15 points while Evan Nolte scored 13 points in the victory. Craig Osaikhwuwuomwan (211-F-90) led the Netherlands B Team with a game-high 21 points and
Kenrick Zondervan (206-F/C-85, agency: Court Side, college: Cent.Florida) added 14 points in the loss.


Aris Leeuwarden tabs forward David Michaels - by Fred Roggen

Aris Leeuwarden improved its roster for the upcoming season by inking forward David Michaels (201-GF-90) to a one-year deal, the club announced Wednesday. The Northwest Conference Player of the Year (2012) arrives from Whitman College (NCAA-3), where he averaged 21.9 points, 6.7 rebounds and 1.9 assists in 24 Northwest Conferences games last season.
Michaels played most of his career as a forward, converting to a wing for his appearance at the Portsmouth Invitational. David Michaels (201-GF-90) is set to make his European pro-debut next season. "I am pleased that we managed to agree to terms with David Michaels (201-GF-90)," Aris Leeuwarden GM Gert Schurer said. "He is the kind of player that we are looking for - strong and with a good shot."



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) (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.
Nikolay Varbanov (209-C-85, agency: Interperformances) answered with 15 points for Bulgaria, Pavel Marinov (197-G-88, agency: Interperformances) posted 14 points in the loss.




Dutch U18 National Team 2012 - by Greg

Dutch U18 National Team 2012
#s#
Thomas Veenhoven
Veenhoven
Emil Van Veen
Veen
Maarten Bouwknecht
Bouwknecht
Pim De Vries
Vries
Kevin Landman
Landman
#e#5
4 Thomas Veenhoven 184-PG-94 Den Bosch Holland
5 Emil Van Veen 185-G-95
6 Maarten Bouwknecht 185-PG-94 Groningen Holland
7 Pim De Vries 188-G/F-95
8 Kevin Landman 187-PG-94 Den Helder K. Holland
9 Mike Schilder 185-PG-94 Den Bosch Holland
10 Julius van Sauers 200-F-95 L'Hospitalet Spain
11 Shane Hammink 198-F-94 LSU USA
12 Lenno Witteveen 191-SF-95
13 Boy Van Vliet 182-SG-94
14 Floris Versteeg 205-F-94
15 Jito Kok 205-C-94 San Diego USA

Johannes Roijakkers Head Coach Goettingen Germany
Ingmar Snabilie Assistant
Nanne Klompstra Assistant



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  HUNGARY   


Hungarian U18 National Team 2012 - by Greg

Hungarian U18 National Team 2012
#s#
Krisztian Bakk
Bakk
Kristof Bognar
Bognar
Mate Borbely
Borbely
Akos Garamvolgyi
Garamvolgyi
Gyorgy Goloman
Goloman
#e#5
Krisztian Bakk 200-SF-94
Kristof Bognar 206-C/F-94 Falco-Szova Hungary
Mate Borbely 210-C/F-94 MAFC Hungary
Akos Garamvolgyi 197-F-94 DEAC Hungary
Gyorgy Goloman 204-PF-96
Peter Jakab 200-F-93 Marso NYKK Hungary
Barnabas Kovacs 194-SG-94 Kecskemeti Foi. Hungary
Peter Mesterhazy 190-G-94 Obudai Hungary
Marton Molnar 202-PF-94
Botond Nagy 177-PG-94 DEAC Hungary
Peter Papp 194-G/F-95 Kaposvari Hungary
Zoltan Perl 194-G-95
Kristof Simon 183-PG-94
Tamas Solymosi 204-F-94 Obudai Hungary
Gabor Somogyi 206-F/C-94
Akos Szalay 194-PG-94
Norbert Tokodi 188-G-94 MAFC Hungary
Bence Toth 190-G-94 Kecskemeti Foi. Hungary
Benedek Varadi 194-G/F-95 Falco-Szova Hungary
Marton Varga 205-C/F-94 Marso NYKK Hungary
Janos Velkey 193-G-95 Kecskemeti Foi. Hungary

Andras Zsoldos Head Coach Noerdlingen Germany
Tamas Ferenczi Assistant Marso NYKK Hungary



Serbia leave no chance for visiting Hungary in Belgrade - by Eurobasket News

Serbia Hungary 95:60

Serbia leave no chance for visiting Hungary in Belgrade at the start of the Trofej Beograda 2012. The hosts of the tournament overcame Hungary 95:60.
Serbia opened the game with 25-12 and added 24-17 in the second frame. The hosts also dominated the second half and added two victories. Serbia won the third period 29-15 and finished the game with 17-16 in the last stanza.
Dejan Musli (213-C-91, agency: Beo Basket) poured in 14 points to lead all the winners, while Vladimir Stimac (208-C-87, agency: Interperformances) posted 13. Milos Teodosic (195-G-87) notched 11, whilst Aleksandar Rasic (194-G-84, agency: Beo Basket), Nemanja Nedovic (192-PG-91, agency: Beo Basket) and Vladimir Lucic (202-F-89, agency: Beo Basket) scored 10 each. Adam Hanga (201-G-89, agency: TSS Management) answered with 16 points in defeat and Zsolt Szabo (202-F-86, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) notched 9.
In another game Turkey won Trofej Beograda 2012 opener against Slovenia. The Turkish side overcame Slovenian team 80:77 in the first game at the International Tournament in Serbia.

Serbia: Dejan Musli 14, Vladimir Stimac 13, Milos Teodosic 11, Aleksandar Rasic 10, Nemanja Nedovic 10, Vladimir Lucic 10
Hungary: Adam Hanga 16, Zsolt Szabo 9


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  ICELAND   


Icelandic U18 National Team 2012 - by Greg

Icelandic U18 National Team 2012
#s#
Maciej Baginski
Baginski
Emil Einarsson
Einarsson
Thorgrimur Emilsson
Emilsson
Elvar Fridriksson
Fridriksson
Hugi Gudbjornsson
Gudbjornsson
#e#5
Maciej Baginski 195-SF-95 Njardvik Iceland
Emil Einarsson 196-SF-94 Thor Thorl Iceland
Thorgrimur Emilsson 206-C-94 IR Iceland
Elvar Fridriksson 181-PG-94 Njardvik Iceland
Hugi Gudbjornsson 194-SF-95
Martin Hermannsson 190-PG-94 KR Iceland
Dagur Jonsson 188-PG-95 Stjarnan Iceland
Jens Oskarsson 205-PF-94 Grindavik Iceland
Matthias Sigurdarson 185-PG-94 High School USA
Svavar Stefansson 200-PF-94 FSU Iceland
Stefan Torfason 200-PF-93 Snaefell Iceland
Valur Valsson 181-G-94 Keflavik Iceland

Einar Arni Johannsson Head Coach Njardvik Iceland
Arnar Gudjonsson Assistant Aarhus BC Denmark
Orvar Kristjansson Assistant Njardvik Iceland



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  ISRAEL   


Maccabi Haifa agrees 2-year deal with Chanan Colman - by Eurobasket News

Chanan Colman (191-G-84, college: Chipola) will continue his career in Israel. According to Eurobasket's David Pick, the Israeli/Danish guard agreed a 2-year deal with Maccabi Haifa. Colman spent last two seasons with Svendborg Rabbits. In the latest one he exploded with 15.7 ppg, 4.6 apg and 4.1 rpg in 40 Danish league games. Svendborg reached Playoff Finals and Colman was named to Eurobasket.com Danish Ligaen All-Domestic Players Team. He participated at the All-Star Game and also was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Danish Ligaen Honorable Mention -12. A year ago, Colman and Svendborg reached Danish Cup Finals. Before the Rabbits, Chanan Colman played in Finland, Israel and Germany. In Israel, he was a member of Gilboa/Afula/Migdal Haemek and Elitzur Ashkelon. In 2005 and 2006, Chanan Colman won the title in Finland with Lappeenranta NMKY. They were also Cup winners in 2005.


Maccabi Haifa reportedly agrees with Bryan Cohen - by Eurobasket News

Maccabi Haifa agreed a deal with another rookie. According to Sportando.net, Bryan Cohen (198-G-89) will play for the Israeli team next season. Cohen is a product of Bucknell University, where he graduated earlier this year. The player had 6.7 ppg, 3.7 rpg and 2.4 apg for 33 games. Bucknell was Patriot League regular season champion and later reached Tournament Finals. The school reached NIT Sweet 16. For his performance during the season Bryan Cohen was named to All-Patriot League 2nd Team -12. A year ago Bryan Cohen won the Patriot League Tournament with his school. He had 7 ppg, 3.9 rpg and 2.5 apg in 34 games that season. The player was named All-Patriot League Defensive Player of the Year -10, 11, 12. In 2009, he was named to Patriot League All-Rookie Team -09.


Hapoel Holon added Frank Hassell to the roster - by David Pick

After inking Lawrence Hill and Zack Rosen, Hapoel Holon continues to build its 2012-13 roster puzzle, adding the 6-foot-8 defensive minded big men Frank Hassell (203-F-88) to a one-year contract, according to sources familiar with the negotiations.
Hassell, an ODU alumnus who averaged a double-double of 10 points and 11.7 boards in last year's Portsmouth Invitational Tournament, signed to play his rookie season in Turkey but returned to the United States to join the San Antonio Spurs' vet-camp when the NBA lockout ended.
Hassell recently enjoyed a dominant D-League season with the Canton Charge where he recorded 10.2 points and 7 rebounds per game thanks to his monstrous 7'4 wingspan. Hassell is also coming off a positive NBA Summer League appearance with the Atlanta Hawks.


Maccabi Tel Aviv Sign 5-Year Deal With Itay Segev - by David Pick

European power Maccabi Tel-Aviv signed Israel's U18 national team '6"8 guard-forward Itay Segev (Agency: Avi Zilberman) to a 5-year deal, as reported by local news agency Safsal.

Segev, who's currently with Israel's youth team in Sarajevo, Bosnia, for the upcoming European Championship games, celebrated his 17th birthday this past June, becoming the youngest member on the squad. He's expected to play for Tel Aviv's junior and senior teams, and travel to all the European competition games with David Blatt's squad.

Segev joined Israel's Wingate Academy Basketball Program two years ago and is expected to relocate to Tel Aviv, according to his agent Avi Zilberman. Growing up, Segev became a force at the point guard position but was forced to learn to play the forward's roll after growing 11 centimeters in 10 months.

Eurobasket informs that Segev's contract holds a number of out-clauses, the first one during the summer of 2014-2015, after Segev completes his military duties and becomes eligible for the NBA Draft, which according to sources, he plans to attend.




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  ITALY   


Sigma Barcellona signs deal with Melvin Sanders - by Eurobasket News

Melvin Sanders (196-F/G-81, college: Oklahoma St.) is a new member of Sigma Barcellona. The player signed a deal for the next season. Sanders spent the last one with the Turkish squad Hacettepe University. He appeared 29 times in TBL averaging 12.7 points and 8.9 rebounds. He was third rebounder of the competition and was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Turkish League Honorable Mention -12. Season 2010/11, Melvin Sanders split between Minsk-2006 and Menorca. With the Spanish team he had 7.6 ppg and 2.5 rpg in 14 ACB league games. Before that he shined with 14.1 ppg and 5.9 rpg for Minsk in 8 VTB United League appearances. They won the Belarusian Cup together. From 2008 to 2010, Melvin Sanders was a member of Gran Canaria. Before that he played for Unicaja Malaga and Panellinios Athens.


Italy overcame Croatia in Trieste - by Eurobasket News

Italy-Croatia 78:70

Italy overcame Croatia in Trieste in a friendly game between two teams. The hosts started well and had a strong finish for 78:70 win.
Italy won the first period 22-14 and increased the lead to 37:24 with 5 minutes in the half. Croatia managed to reduced to 5 points for 42:37 at the halftime. Moreover Bojan Bogdanovic (203-G/F-89) tied the game at 47:47 from the perimeter. Croatia started to play better and managed to win the third period 17-16. Bojan Bogdanovic brought 68:66, while Cinciarini and Angelo Gigli (209-F/C-83) increased to 6 points. Daniele Cavaliero (188-G-84) and Aradori brought the final points for the home side.
Jeffrey Viggiano (197-F-84, college: Massachusetts) top-scored for the winners with 12 points, while Cinciarini, Daniele Cavaliero, Stefano Mancinelli (203-F-83) and Angelo Gigli posted 8 each. Bojan Bogdanovic erupted with 31 points in the losing effort. Markota and Zoric followed him with 8 points apiece.

Italy: Daniele Cavaliero 8 (0/2,2/4), Stefano Mancinelli 8 (4/6,0/3), Poeta 4 (0/1 da tre), Vitali, Cusin 8 (3/6), Datome 5 (1/2,1/4), Magro ne, Angelo Gigli 8 (3/7), Chessa 3 (0/1,1/2), Cinciarini 8 (1/2), Jeffrey Viggiano 12 (2/3,2/2), Hackett 6 (1/3,1/2), Polonara ne, Chiotti 4 (2/3), Aradori 4 (2/3,0/1). Allenatore: Simone Pianigiani. Assistente: Luca Dalmonte.
Croatia: Andric 5 (2/5), Vrbanc (0/1,0/1), Bojan Bogdanovic 31 (7/8,2/5), Rok Stipcevic (184-PG-86) 2 (1/2,0/1), Rudez (0/3,0/2), Babic 2 (1/1), Simo 6 (0/1,0/1), Markota 8 (2/5,1/1), Pilepic 4 (1/3 da tre), Zoric 8 (2/8), Planicic ne, Ramljak 4 (2/2,0/1), Marcinkovic ne. Allenatore: Jasmin Repesa. Assistente: Sunara. (stats courtesy www.fip.it)


Montepaschi Siena inked point guard Bobby Brown to a one-year deal - by Pervin Elgin

Montepaschi Siena improved its backcourt for the upcoming season by inking point guard Bobby Brown to a one-year deal, the club announced Wednesday. Brown (1.88 meters, 27 years old) arrives from EWE Baskets Oldenburg, where he became the German League's top scorer at season at 16.1 points per game. He added 2.2 rebounds and 4.7 assists on average in 34 German League games. His previous Turkish Airlines Euroleague experience came in 2010-11, when Brown averaged 10.7 points in 6 games with Asseco Prokom Gydnia. Brown finished the 2010-11 season with Aris BSA 2003, averaging 14.2 points and 3.3 assists in 9 Eurocup games. Brown played the 2007-08 season with Alba Berlin, where he averaged 16 points and 4.2 assists in the Eurocup. He was involved in the longest ever Eurocup game that season a 141-127 five-overtime Berlin win over KK Bosna in which Brown scored 44 points and forced the first, fourth and fifth overtimes. Brown also helped Berlin win the 2008 German League championship with 13.8 points and 3.7 assists per game. Brown has also played in 113 NBA games for Sacramento, Minnesota, New Orleans and Los Angeles Clippers, averaging 5.1 points and 1.8 assists along the way. He replaces 2011-12 Alphonso Ford Top Scoring Trophy winner Bo McCalebb, who joined Fenerbahce Ulker last week.

Courtesy of Euroleague.net




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


JBL: Sean Hinkley lands with Champion Toyota - by John Scribe

The JBL's Toyota Alvark recently announced that they signed Sean Hinkley (197-F-91) to bolster its front court for the 2012-2013 season.

Hinkley, who recently played for Link Tochigi for two seasons. Hinkley, an 200cm American-Japanese forward, played sparingly for the Brex, but
has shown flashes of brilliance with this athletic play around the rim. As a result, he was selected as a member of the Japanese National Team
this summer and will have a chance to show his talents in the Asian Champions that will take place in Tokyo during september.

Toyota, this past season's champions are already loaded with talent, and features national team player Kosuke Takeuchi on its front line. The supporting cast
in the front court also included former superstar Michael Takahashi and Gaku Arao, who had been a candidate for the national team before. With the addition of Hinkley,
the Alvark will again have the biggest depth of talent in the league on paper.

In other transaction news, Yuta Tabuse (173-G-80, college: BYU-Hawaii), the first-ever Japanese player to play in the NBA re-signed with Tochigi. Tabuse had been hampered by injuries the last
couple of seasons, but should be back healthy and ready for the upcoming season.Tochigi also features the best scoring guard in Japan with Takuya Kawamura,
and should lead the team to another exciting run like two seasons ago when the franchise won its only championship.

Jo Kurino-Dews (195-F-80, college: Mount Olive), who had contributed to the late-season ascension of Levanga Hokkaido last season, also re-signed with the team.


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  LITHUANIA   


Zalgiris eye Ksistof Lavrinovic to unite the twins - by Eurobasket News

Zalgiris eye Ksistof Lavrinovic (210-C-79) to unite the twins for the next season. The Lithuanian player might move from Italy.
Ksistof Lavrinovic led Montepaschi to the trophy as the latter celebrated yet another SeriaA title. They fired past Armani Jeans tonight to earn the sixth consecutive crown. Ksistof Lavrinovic delivered 22 points and 7 rebounds to lead the winners.
In 2011-2012 for Montepaschi Siena (Italy-SerieA, starting five) Ksistof Lavrinovic averaged 9.7ppg, 3.9rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 43.9%, 3PT: 44.4%, FT: 71.4% in Euroleague and in Italy had 12.6 points per game.
Ksistof Lavrinovic stayed with Siena for 5 years. In 2006-2007 he played for Unics Kazan (Russia-A Superleague, starting five) and in 15 games averaged 11.6ppg, Reb-3 (7.0rpg), 1.1apg, 1.4spg, Blocks-2 (1.9bpg), 2FGP: 57.8%, 3FGP: 36.8%, FT: 77.3% in ULEB Cup. In Russian League his stats read 13.2ppg, 5.3rpg, 1.5apg, 1.2spg, 1.1bpg, 2FGP: 57.0%, 3PT: 45.0%, FT: 76.0%.


Olympics 2012: Russia send Lithuania packing - by Eurobasket News

Russia - Lithuania 83:74

Russia advanced into the semifinal stage of Olympic basketball tournament. David Blatts team held off Lithuania in the first quarterfinal tonight. Andrei Kirilenko (209-F-81) scored 19 points and 13 rebounds to lead the winners.
Lithuania led just in the opening minutes. Valanciunas gave the Baltic team a 9:6 lead midway through the first term. But Russia quickly gained the advantage and used an 11:1 run to make it 17:10 at the first break. The gap grew at 9-point mark early in the second quarter. But Darius Songaila (204-C/F-78, agency: Priority Sports, college: Wake Forest) put Lithuania within 5 points at the interval. Jasikevicius committed several crucial turnovers early in the third term as Russia gained back a 9-point lead 41:32. Soon Viktor Khryapa (205-SF-82) made it 46:32 for Russia. But Lithuania remained in the game as Pocius and Kalnietis trimmed the deficit to 4 points with one quarter remaining 54:50. Rimantas Kaukenas (192-SG-77, college: Seton Hall) put Lithuania within one at the start of the fourth frame but Russia used a 7:0 run to earn a 64:55 lead midway through the final stanza. Darius Songaila and Rimantas Kaukenas kept intrigue alive for some time but Andrei Kirilenko and Fridzon extended the gap 11 points and Russia secured the winning outcome at the end. Timofey Mozgov (215-C-86, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav) finished with 17 points, while Viktor Khryapa added 12 points, 8 assists and 6 boards for the winners. Rimantas Kaukenas answered with 19 points for Lithuania. Darius Songaila had 15 points in the loss.

Russia: Andrei Kirilenko 19+13 boards, Timofey Mozgov 17, Viktor Khryapa 12
Lithuania: Rimantas Kaukenas 19, Darius Songaila 15


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  LUXEMBOURG   


Luxembourg U18 National Team 2012 - by Greg

Luxembourg U18 National Team 2012
#s#
Yann Wolff
Wolff
Bob Melcher
Melcher
Kevin Moura
Moura
Max Hilger
Hilger
Thomas Grun
Grun
#e#5
4 Yann Wolff 196-PF-94 Etzella Luxembourg
5 Bob Melcher 186-G-94 Amicale Luxembourg
6 Kevin Moura 182-PG-94 Residence Luxembourg
7 Max Hilger 187-PG-95 Racing Luxembourg
8 Thomas Grun 194-G/F-95 Urspring Germany
9 Alain Gengler 202-C-94 Contern Luxembourg
10 Pit Schneider 185-PG-94 Sparta Luxembourg
11 Sven Ehmann 187-G/F-95
12 Jo Hoeser 193-F-94 BC Mess Luxembourg
13 Philippe Gutenkauf 181-PG-95 Etzella Luxembourg
14 Philippe Majerus 195-PF-94
15 Ben Goergen 187-SG-94

Mark van Schutterhoef Head Coach Nijmegen Holland
Jerome Altmann Assistant Musel Pikes Luxembourg



Torye Pelham and Mychal Green join Soleuvre - by Eurobasket News

Soleuvre bolstered their squad. They added Torye Pelham (198-F-87, agency: Strategic Sports) and Mychal Green (193-G/F-83, agency: Fierce Sports Management, college: Ohio) to the roster.
Torye Pelham will start his pro career in Luxembourg. The forward has just graduated from the University of Southern Mississippi this summer. He tallied 6.2 points, 4.8 rebounds and 1.1 steals per game in his senior season.
Mychal Green played in British BBL last season. The forward had a stint with the Glasgow Rocks. His stats read 18.1 points, 6.0 rebounds, 4.5 assists and 1.3 steals per appearance. Eurobasket.com named Mychal Green into All-British BBL 2nd Team. Previosly the forward had spells for Stahnsdorf, Licher Basket Baeren, Harbour Heat, Canterbury Rams and Utah Eagles. He earned All-German 2.Bundesliga ProB Honourable Mention in 2011.


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  MEXICO   


Soles de Mexicali sign Roman Martinez - by Eurobasket News

Roman Martinez (201-F-88, college: N.Mexico) will continue his career in Mexico. The Spanish forward signed a deal with Soles de Mexicali. Montanez arrives to the club from Gran Canaria, where he spent last season. Martinez had 7 ppg and 1.8 rpg for 5 EuroCup games. He added 3.6 ppg and 2.6 rpg for 10 games in Spain. Montanez also played for La Palma last season. There he had 10.9 ppg and 2.8 rpg for 25 appearances in LEB Gold. Martinez played for La Palma also in 2010/11. At that time he registered 8.7 ppg and 2.9 rpg in 34 games. Roman Martinez graduated at New Mexico University two years ago. He shined with 13.9 ppg and 5.9 rpg for 35 games as a senior.


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  MONTENEGRO   


Montenegrin U18 National Team 2012 - by Greg

Montenegrin U18 National Team 2012
#s#
Luka Antic
Antic
Luka Banovic
Banovic
Luka Djurovic
Djurovic
Milovan Draskovic
Draskovic
Petar Dubljevic
Dubljevic
#e#5
Luka Antic 205-F-94
Luka Banovic 202-F-94 Girona Spain
Luka Djurovic 190-G-95 KK Podgorica Montenegro
Milovan Draskovic 209-C-95 KK Podgorica Montenegro
Petar Dubljevic 189-G-95 Bonus Montenegro
Nikola Jokanovic 192-G-94
Stefan Klikovac 189-G-94 Ulcinj Montenegro
Veselin Kovacevic 200-F-94 ABS Primorje Montenegro
Danilo Markovic 201-F-94 S.Centar Montenegro
Milija Mikovic 205-C-94 Mornar Bar Montenegro
Stefan Milickovic 204-C-94 KK Podgorica Montenegro
Vladimir Mrdak 205-C-94 Danilovgrad Montenegro
Milos Pajovic 205-C-94 KK Podgorica Montenegro
Dusan Perovic 204-C-94 Mornar Bar Montenegro
Milan Pesic 198-F-95
Vaso Popovic 187-G-94 Un.Mediteran Montenegro
Marko Raicevic 187-G-95 S.Centar Montenegro
Petar Saric 186-G-95 Teodo Tivat Montenegro
Luka Savic 199-F-95 ABS Primorje Montenegro
Masan Vrbica 187-G-94 Lovcen Montenegro
Nenad Vukovic 187-G-94 Centar BP Montenegro
Miodrag Vukovic 190-G-94 Gorstak Montenegro
Vasilije Vusovic 188-G-94 KK Podgorica Montenegro
Nikola Zizic 190-G-94 KK Podgorica Montenegro

Dragan Radovic Head Coach Lovcen Montenegro
Mirko Prorokovic Assistant Lovcen Montenegro
Vladan Radovic Assistant KK Podgorica Montenegro
Sasa Agramovic Assistant



Radnicki signed Krstovic and Borisov - by Darko Pekic

The member of Adriatic League Radnicki from Kragujevac signed today two players and both of them are linked to the Montenegrin basketball- Bojan Krstovic (194-G-80, agency: Interperformances), the former player oF Buducnost and Milos Borisov (201-F-85), member of Montenegrin National team.

Krstovic parted ways with Buducnost after the season ended while Borisov spent last season in Italy (Teramo). They will add the important experience to the team coached by Miroslav Nikolic , who coached Buducnost also.


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  NBA   


Dwyane Wade's rehab going well after knee surgery - by Eurobasket News

Dwyane Wade's (6'4''-G-82, college: Marquette) recovery from knee surgery is right on schedule, and the All-Star guard expects to be ready to go when the Miami Heat open the defense of their NBA championship.

The way he was walking around London on Wednesday, it would have been tough to guess he had surgery a month ago.

"I feel good. Rehab is going very well," Wade told The Associated Press. "I'm happy with it. I'm more encouraged than I was, obviously, when I knew I had to get surgery. So I'm happy."

Wade was in London making a promotional appearance at NBA House for Gatorade, one of his longtime sponsors, and its sports science institute. If the knee surgery wasn't needed, Wade would have been in London for another reason - playing in the Olympics with the U.S. squad. He helped the team win gold in the 2004 Athens Games and 2008 Beijing Olympics.

He didn't hesitate when asked if he thought there was a chance his Heat teammate LeBron James and the rest of the U.S. men wouldn't win gold.

"No," Wade said. "No. Simple as that."

He had surgery on his left knee on July 9, after helping the Heat win the NBA championship despite his being bothered by knee pain and swelling throughout the playoffs. Once it was determined that he needed surgery, Wade removed his name from consideration for the Olympic team.

Wade will spend a few days in London, planning to watch the U.S.-Japan women's soccer gold-medal match on Thursday, basketball and track and field, among other Olympic events. Then it's off to Switzerland for meetings with a watch company that sponsors him and back home for the busiest part of his summer.

The book he wrote about fatherhood comes out Sept. 4, the day he'll start a whirlwind promotional tour. Before that, he'll host a fantasy camp for people who want to live like NBA players for a few days, along with a series of events for kids in his native Chicago.

"I'm pretty much busy," Wade said. "Business things and also spending time with my boys. There's a lot to do. I'll be busy all the way from now up to training camp."

He started rehabbing almost immediately after surgery, first trying to build strength in his hip and knee areas. Around Sept. 1, he expects to do more intense training, which would coincide with the start of the book tour.

"So I'll be doing both," he said. "I'll be working out on the tour."

The Heat will open training camp in late September, and Wade said he expects to be fully ready to go when Miami opens the defense of its title against the Boston Celtics on Oct. 30. He even hopes to be ready for the start of camp.

"I should be. We'll see," Wade said. "We'll see how we approach it as an organization. But I should be able to go. It just depends on how much they feel like they want me to work. But I should be ready when the season starts."

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com


Former Hawks All-Star Roundfield drowns in Aruba - by Eurobasket News

Dan Roundfield, an NBA veteran who had three consecutive All-Star seasons, has drowned off the Caribbean island of Aruba while helping his wife as she struggled in rough water. He was 59.

Roundfield, who played 11 professional seasons with Indiana, Atlanta, Detroit and Washington, had been swimming with his wife, Bernie, off the southeastern tip of Aruba on Monday when they became caught in rough water beyond a protected reef area, said John Larmonie, a police spokesman on the southern Caribbean island.

The former All Star was apparently swept away in a strong current as he tried to help his struggling wife, Larmonie said. Police, firefighters, the Coast Guard and volunteers searched for him, finding his body about 90 minutes later, trapped by rocks underwater.

"It's a real tragedy," Larmonie said. "He drowned saving his wife."

Bernie Roundfield, who said she was helped to safety by a U.S. tourist snorkeling nearby, said in an interview that the couple, who live in the Atlanta area, had come to the island with their two grandchildren.

The couple had visited Aruba nearly 20 times and were caught off guard by the strong currents at the swimming area known as "Baby Beach," even though they had been there many times in the past, she said.

"We always go to Baby Beach, and we go there because it's so safe," she told The Associated Press. "It happened so fast."

Bernie Roundfield was treated for shock after the incident and Larmonie said the government had provided a social worker to assist her and other family members as they remained on the island Tuesday.

Julia Roundfield, a sister-in-law of the athlete, who lives in Detroit, said members of the former athlete's extended family were still trying to get details of the incident.

"He was a real sweet guy," Julia Roundfield said. "He really was a sweetheart."

His wife said he will be remembered as a family man.

"People knew he was a great husband, a great dad, a great grandfather," Bernie Roundfield said. "They knew he would help his friends or any other person who needed help."

A 6-foot-8 forward-centre out of Detroit, Roundfield played for Central Michigan in college and started his pro career with Indiana, which was then in the ABA. He played 11 professional seasons. Besides the Pacers, he had stints with Atlanta, Detroit and Washington and averaged 15.2 point per game for his NBA career.

Roundfield was selected as an All-Star in 1980, 1981 and 1982, when he was playing for the Hawks.

Friends and colleagues mourned an athlete that they said was known for physical play but a gentle nature. "Danny represented the Hawks with dignity and pride both on and off the court, and this is a tragic loss for us all," team General Manager Danny Ferry said in a statement.

Former Hawks teammate Dominique Wilkins called Roundfield the "most honest and upfront person I knew," in a statement released by the team. "He taught me how to be a professional and took me under his wing," he said. "My thoughts and prayers go out to his family, I will truly miss him."

In addition to his wife, Roundfield is survived by his sons Christopher and Corey and two grandchildren. Funeral arrangements had not been finalized.

Larmonie said Baby Beach is generally safe but can be deceptive. The water can get treacherous out beyond the reef in rough weather.

"It was a really bad day to go outside the reef," he said.

In August 2011, an American tourist, Gary Giordano of Gaithersburg, Maryland, reported that his companion, Robyn Gardner of Frederick, Maryland, disappeared while snorkeling near Baby Beach. Police detained Giordano on suspicion of involvement in her death but he was released for lack of evidence and returned to the U.S.

Courtesy of www.tsn.ca


NCAA, NBA, NHL and NFL sue NJ to stop it from allowing sports betting - by Eurobasket News

The NCAA and the four major professional leagues sued New Jersey on Tuesday, saying the state's plan to allow sports betting violates federal law and threatens the "character and integrity" of sporting events.

Major League Baseball, the National Basketball Association, the National Hockey League, the National Football league and the NCAA filed the lawsuit in federal court in Trenton.

The leagues say New Jersey's proposal to allow sports betting is "in clear and flagrant violation" of a 1992 federal law, the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act, which restricts betting on collegiate and professional games to four states: Delaware, Montana, Nevada and Oregon. New Jersey was given a chance to become the fifth state, but declined to act during a yearlong window from 1993 to 1994.

Gov. Chris Christie signed a law in January to allow sports betting at New Jersey's 12 casinos, four racetracks and on the site of a closed racetrack. In May, he said he would move forward with the regulations without attempting to get the 1992 law overturned. The regulations were published in July and are expected to become effective within the next two months.

Christie on Tuesday predicted the state would prevail.

"I don't believe that the federal government has the right to decide that only certain states can have sports gambling. On what basis?" Christie said. "And it doesn't acknowledge that there is illegal sports gambling going on in every state in America, as we speak. So why is this more injurious than illegal sports gambling to the operations of the league or the NCAA?"

The leagues' lawsuit said that allowing sports gambling in New Jersey would threaten the "reputations and goodwill" between fans and teams. Damage to that bond, the lawsuit states, would cause irreversible damage to sports franchises.

"The sponsorship, operation, advertising, promotion, licensure and authorization of sports gambling in New Jersey," the lawsuit states, "would irreparably harm amateur and professional sports by fostering suspicion that individual plays and final scores of games may have been influenced by factors other than honest athletic competition."

The leagues say they will fight the expansion of sports betting because it "undermines the public's faith and confidence in the character of amateur and professional team sports."

That fight could continue in other venues. A bill is pending in the California Assembly to allow sports betting, and U.S. Rep. Frank LoBindo, R-N.J., sponsored a federal bill that would give states a four-year window to enact legislation to allow for it.

The New Jersey law allows casinos and racetracks to operate sports betting pools that are approved by the state Division of Gaming Enforcement and the New Jersey Racing Commission. It also allows the state to issue licenses for sports betting parlours.

The state constitution prohibits gambling on collegiate athletic events taking place in New Jersey and where one or more New Jersey team is competing.

Half the revenue from the new law will go toward gambling-treatment programs.

The Casino Association of New Jersey said in a statement Tuesday that the casinos should "be legally able to offer sports betting as do our counterparts in Nevada." The association said it hopes the end result "is a level playing field for all New Jersey casinos."

State Sen. Raymond J. Lesniak, a longtime supporter of sports gambling who sponsored the bill Christie signed into law, said he and others welcomed the lawsuit.

The sooner the federal law is overturned, Lesniak said, "the quicker we'll be able to start sports betting in New Jersey."

Courtesy of www.vancouversun.com


Knicks interested in Lou Amundson - by Eurobasket News

Louis Amundson's (6'9''-F/C-82, agency: Priority Sports, college: UNLV) agent has had an ongoing dialogue with the Knicks about bringing the bruising center to New York.

Several teams, including some with more money to offer than the Knicks, have also expressed interest in Amundson.

According to Chris Tomasson of Fox Sports Florida, Amundson has drawn interest from Charlotte, which can offer the $2.5 non tax-payer exception.

The Knicks can offer only the veteran's minimum to Amundson.

Amundson's agent, Mark Bartelstein, says Amundson is in no rush to make a decision.

"Glen (Grunwald) and I have talked," Bartelstein said. " (Amundson) is the best big man on the market, so there's no reason to be impatient."

Amundson isn't the only free-agent big man being linked to New York.

Donte Greene, formerly of Sacramento, said the Knicks are one of three teams he's considering. Kenyon Martin appeared to be a potential target, but recent reports have stated that the veteran is considering the Lakers and Nets. Though, according to colleague Jared Zwerling, Martin wouldn't accept the veteran's minimum, which appears to be all the Lakers and Nets have to offer.

Zwerling also reports former Nuggets big Chris Anderson is open to signing for the veteran's minimum.

Other candidates include D.J. White and Andray Blatche.

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

Many have speculated that the Knicks will add a reserve forward of Amundson's ilk before Opening Night.

The 6-9, six-year veteran averaged 3.5 points and 3.7 rebounds in 12.6 minutes for Indiana last season.

Courtesy of ESPN


Portland Trail Blazers hire Terry Stotts as new head coach - by Eurobasket News

The Portland Trail Blazers have named Terry Stotts the teams new head coach, it was announced today by General Manager Neil Olshey. Stotts becomes the 14th head coach in Trail Blazers history.

An 18-year coaching veteran, Stotts most recently served as an assistant coach with Dallas for four seasons from 2008-12. Under head coach Rick Carlisle, Stotts helped lead the Mavericks to the 2011 NBA Championship.

Terry is one of the elite offensive minds in the NBA, has extensive experience with multiple organizations and was instrumental in the Dallas Mavericks winning the 2011 NBA Championship, said Olshey. He understands the vision for the future of the franchise, appreciates the process involved and will create an environment on the court that will produce championship habits.

Stotts, 54, has twice served as an NBA head coach, with two-year stints in both Milwaukee (2005-07) and Atlanta (2002-04). He has compiled an overall head coaching record of 115-168 (.406).

Im very pleased to be a part of a great franchise in a beautiful city with such a proud history, said Stotts. I look forward to working hard with Neil and our players toward the ultimate goal of bringing another championship to Portland.

During his two seasons with Milwaukee, Stotts guided the Bucks to a 63-83 (.432) mark, including a playoff appearance in 2006. Stotts replaced Lon Kruger as head coach of the Hawks on Dec. 26, 2002, and accumulated a record of 52-85 (.380) in two seasons with Atlanta.

In between head coaching positions, Stotts worked as the lead assistant to Mike Montgomery at Golden State during the 2004-05 season.

Before becoming a head coach, Stotts served as an assistant under George Karl for 10 years, six with Seattle and four with Milwaukee. Those teams reached the postseason in nine of 10 seasons, including Seattles NBA Finals appearance in 1996.

A four-year starter at the University of Oklahoma, Stotts was selected by Houston in the second round of the 1980 NBA Draft. He played professionally for several seasons in Europe and with the CBAs Montana Golden Nuggets, coached by Karl.

A native of Cedar Falls, Iowa, Stotts grew up in Illinois, Wisconsin, Guam and finished high school in Bloomington, Indiana.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com


DeJuan Blair still on the trade block - by Eurobasket News

DeJuan Blair (6'7''-F/C-89, college: Pittsburgh) confirmed the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette what seemed obvious. After last year's playoff where Blair's minutes virtually vanished, the Spurs have still got him on the trade block.

"Hopefully, I stay a Spur, but if it doesn't happen, life moves on," Blair said. "They've got me on the trade market and they'll do the best to get me in the greatest situation possible."

via Former Pitt star DeJuan Blair growing up as an NBA player - Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

Blair was drafted despite injury concerns about his knees and his high work ethic and relentless assault on the offensive glass made him a fan favorite. It was thought he would develop into a monster, another steal for San Antonio.

But while Blair has had no injury issues so far in his career outside of a small surgery two years ago, his defense has never taken a step towards where it needs to be. He has trouble scoring on his own due to his size and San Antonio recognizes that they need height against Oklahoma City and the Lakers.

Blair has yet to garner a good enough offer, but if the Spurs reach a point where they really want to make a move, you can bet Blair will be in the talks as part of the deal. The Spurs may also trade him to simply find him a better situation. They've been known to take care of players in that regard.

Courtesy of www.cbssports.com


Harden is 'pretty, a hundred percent' sure he's staying in OKC - by Eurobasket News

James Harden (6'5''-SG-89, college: Arizona St.) is currently busy trying to do the whole gold medal thing. Which means the Thunders biggest offseason question marks have been placed on hold. Both Harden and Serge Ibaka are eligible for extensions, but with them playing basketball, those things arent priority right now.

After the dust settles in London, things will advance one way or another. And while a lot of people fret over Harden and Ibaka and the Thunders future cap situation, one person seems to be fairly certain theres nothing to worry about: James Harden. As he told Sam Amick of SI.com:

Im pretty, a hundred percent, Im pretty sure that Im going to be in Oklahoma City, Harden said with a reported small stutter. Ill let my agent and Mr. Presti and [Thunder owner Clay] Bennett discuss all that, so Ill let them handle that and stay out of it for right now and worry about the USA Olympics.

Harden was then asked if the thought of being a featured player with a more prominent role was at all intriguing to him.
I love winning, he said. We have some great guys over here, something special, something I dont think any other team in the NBA has young guys who got drafted basically together, year after year after year. Weve got something special, so Im focused on what we have and trying to win a championship with these guys.

Amick notes he talked to Harden about this at Team USAs July training camp in Las Vegas, meaning he said this before he told Paul Coro of the Arizona Republic that hed consider playing for the Phoenix Suns if he reaches free agency.

But by the sounds of it, Harden has no intention to do that. Obviously a lot of that falls on what the Thunder offer because if its a max deal or even close to it, Harden is likely to sign on without thinking much about it.

At the same time, hes hinted as possibly taking less money to remain with the Thunder. This is something special here, he said. A dynasty is being built here. So were winning, were having fun and were brothers. The other stuff, you cant buy it.

As we all know, what happens with Harden impact Ibaka. And vice versa. But in order to keep both, you have to keep at least one and Id presume that would begin with Harden. His importance to the team is undeniable, and thats just not on the floor or off the bench. He balances the top of the roster and thats an incredibly valuable thing to the structure of the team. Plus, hes a 22-year-old Olympian that just won Sixth Man of the Year. So yeah, he can ball.

Well see what happens after London and theres a chance to really get to work on this stuff. But one things for certain: Hardens pretty kinda sorta pretty much positive sure hes not going anywhere.

Courtesy of www.dailythunder.com


Thunder GM sees benefit of having his players at Olympics - by Eurobasket News

Sam Presti is forever the diplomat, meaning the record will show that he was neutral on the issue of the Olympics and whether players of all ages should compete in men's basketball.

But as the Oklahoma City general manager discussed his players' experiences in London, it was hard to miss the enthusiasm in his voice about five-ring life as we know it. With Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook and James Harden competing for Team USA and Serge Ibaka playing for Spain, Presti -- who is headed that way this week to watch the quartet in person and squeeze in some international scouting -- spoke glowingly about the fringe benefits of having pros play internationally.

Presti is a fascinating case study for the issue of NBA participation at the Games because his four best players are all either 22 or 23 and began training with their respective countries about two weeks after the Thunder lost the NBA Finals to the Heat on June 21. But if David Stern has his way, this would be the end of the Olympic road for this Thunder group.

The commissioner is reportedly pushing for basketball to follow the soccer model of making the Olympics a 23-and-under tournament while having all NBA players eligible to compete in a basketball World Cup, a potential NBA- and FIBA-run event that would give Stern's league far more authority and, of course, the financial rewards absent in the current format. Dallas' Mark Cuban is one owner who has made his feelings known that NBA teams are simply subsidizing the Olympics without receiving any control or profit.

Nonetheless, Presti had only good things to say on Saturday about the status quo.

"I think it's really helpful for them to play under different circumstances; it only rounds them out as players and makes them better," said Presti, who also saw Durant and Westbrook win gold at the 2010 FIBA World Championship. "What we observed from the World Championship was just the mental endurance that it takes to go through an international competition and the training camp that leads up to it in medal-round play just to get there.

"Just the level of mental endurance that Kevin and Russell have been exposed to and conditioned themselves to, I think has really helped us in our playoff series. That's a real benefit. I think Serge's experiences with the national team, again just being in different situations and adjusting to different styles of play, I only makes him a more well-rounded player. And James now is also getting that level of experience. I really feel like we've benefited from all of the exposures that the players have been given, and I think they're all very grateful for the opportunity too. It's fun to watch them in these situations."

Presti made it clear that he wanted to learn more about the 23-and-under debate before forming his opinion.

"There's probably arguments to be made on both sides of the equation, but we've been pleased with the experiences the guys have had, the opportunities they've been given," he said. "But I think we have to focus on the here and now, and support them, and then deal with whatever those discussions are going to be down the line."

While Presti's main motivation in traveling to London is to show support for his players, he'll have his eyes elsewhere as well.

"The game is always evolving," he said. "Players are coming from all over the world, so maintaining some connection with players, style of play, trends within the game, coaches and techniques that they're experimenting with [is beneficial]. What makes the game great is that there are so many different people pushing it in so many different ways."

After surviving a 99-94 scare from Lithuania on Saturday, Team USA (4-0) was to face Argentina on Monday in its final preliminary game. Spain (3-1) fell to Russia 77-74 on Saturday in what was its first loss to a non-American team at the Olympics since 2000. The Spaniards were to meet Brazil (3-1) on Monday to complete group play.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com


Sacramento Kings arena may be renamed - by Eurobasket News

Power Balance Pavilion could get renamed yet again and Sleep Train is one of the candidates.

Sleep Train Mattress Centers said Tuesday it's negotiating with the Sacramento Kings for naming rights to the team's arena. The Rocklin-based retailer is one of several companies talking to the Kings about naming rights.

Kings co-owner Joe Maloof confirmed the team is in negotiations for a replacement for Power Balance. He said the Kings' marketing staff is handling the talks and he had no information about which companies are in the running. The team declined to comment further.

The Kings began looking for a new naming-rights partner after their year-old deal with Power Balance was cut short abruptly. The sports-wristband company left the team high and dry after filing for bankruptcy protection last fall. Power Balance paid the Kings just $700,000 before cutting off payments, according to court records.

Although the Power Balance deal turned into a debacle for the team, the Kings face significant hurdles in finding a replacement an aging arena, a small market and a sluggish economy.

There's also lingering controversy over the Maloofs abandoning the city's deal for a downtown arena last spring, and the resulting uncertainty about the team's long-term future. The Maloofs insist they're committed to Sacramento.

In that light, a highly regarded local company could earn considerable good will by riding to the rescue and grabbing the naming rights, said E.J. Narcise of Team Services LLC, a sports-marketing firm in Maryland.

"There's a 'good guy' play at work," Narcise said.

Founded in 1985, Sleep Train operates more than 250 stores on the West Coast. It is already a Kings sponsor. It holds the naming rights for the Sleep Train Amphitheatre near Marysville and a similar venue in Concord.

The Marysville facility has struggled, but Dale Carlsen, founder and chief executive of the retail chain, said naming rights are still a good form of promotion.

The arena offers "opportunities that are out there beyond the Kings," he said. "The circuses, the ice shows, the concerts."

He added that it's also a form of public service. "It's important for businesses to support entertainment in the community," he said.

Maloof said he's convinced the Kings can snare a good naming-rights contract.

"We'll get a great deal, I'm sure, an outstanding deal," he said.

Despite a string of losing seasons, the franchise is "on the way up," he added. "We're getting a lot of positive interest" in the naming rights.

Whoever replaces Power Balance, it will be the second name change at the Kings' arena in a little over a year.

The building was known as Arco Arena for 25 years, until Power Balance signed a five-year contract starting in March 2011.

The deal figured to be more lucrative than the Arco contract, which paid a reported $750,000 a year.

Power Balance was scheduled to pay the team $975,000 in the first year and ramp up to $2.35 million in year five, according to bankruptcy court records.

Then Power Balance began imploding. Last fall it filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy reorganization, beaten down by slumping sales and a host of consumer lawsuits about the once-trendy wristbands' supposed health benefits. Some of the lawsuits had already been filed when the Kings signed on with Power Balance.

The company was sold to a Chinese firm that severed the contract with the Kings. The team was still owed $8.3 million, out of $9 million.

Narcise said it's possible the Kings could get a new deal comparable in price to the Power Balance contract.

"For an existing NBA building, that is not out of the stratosphere," the marketing consultant said.

Courtesy of www.sacbee.com


Kenyon Martin considering Lakers, Nets? - by Eurobasket News

Kenyon Martin (6'9''-F-77, college: Cincinnati) isn't the player he once was, but the 34-year-old has shown that he can still be a valuable contributor off the bench, and he therefore wants to be paid as such.

Martin is considering the Lakers and Nets in free agency, according to Sports Illustrated's Sam Amick.

The forward is reportedly holding up signing with a new team, though. This comes despite him having lost most of his negotiation leverage in the wake of other frontcourt free agents signing for the veteran's minimum.

As Amick points out, Martin joins the likes of Leandro Barbosa, Jermaine O'Neal, Matt Barnes, Mickael Pietrus, Josh Howard, Michael Redd, Louis Amundson, Joel Przybilla and Anthony Tolliver as players waiting longer than normal for a job.

Martin averaged 5.2 points and 4.3 rebounds in 22.4 minutes per game with the Clippers last season. Those all represent career lows, but he was still very efficient and could be a nice piece off the bench for a contending team.

First, Martin will have to realize where the market stands.

Courtesy of http://msn.foxsports.com


Olympics 2012: USA cruise past Australia into semifinal - by Eurobasket News

USA - Australia 119:86

USA completed semifinal picture at the Olympic basketball tournament. They knocked down Australia to earn the spot in the semifinal clash versus Argentina.
Kevin Durant opened the scoring with a three-pointer but the Boomers reacted adequately and soon surged ahead. The teams stayed close before the USA surged ahead for a 19:12 lead. Team USA soon opened a 10-point lead at 26:16. But Patrick Mills (6'0''-PG-88, college: St.Mary's, CA) put Australia within 7 points at the first break 21:28. Kevin Durant opened the second term with a triple and Team USA shortly accumulated a 12-point lead. They kept the Boomers at distance in the second quarter posting a 56:42 lead at halftime. Australia surprised USA with an 11:0 run at the start of the second half. Kevin Durant stopped the bleeding with a three-pointer. Kobe Bryant (6'6''-SG-78) then drilled back-to-back three-pointers for the USA as they earned a 70:58 lead midway through the third term. USA entered the fourth frame up by 14 points 84:70. They stayed in control in the final frame. The Boomers tried hard but could not threaten the margin at the dying stages of the game. Kobe Bryant topscored with 20 points. Deron Williams (6'3''-PG-84, college: Illinois) added 18 points, while Carmelo Anthony (6'8''-SF-84, college: Syracuse) had 17 points. LeBron James (6'8''-SF-84) accounted for triple-double of 11 points, 14 boards and 11 assists in the win. Patrick Mills answered with 26 points for Australia. Joe Ingles (6'8''-SF-87, agency: Priority Sports) had 19 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists in the loss.

USA: Kobe Bryant 20, Deron Williams 18, Carmelo Anthony 17, LeBron James 11+14 boards+11 assists
Australia: Patrick Mills 26, Joe Ingles 19


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  NCAA1   


Obradoiro signs rookie Robbie Hummel - by Eurobasket News

Obradoiro is close to sign rookie forward Robbie Hummel (203-F-89, agency: Priority Sports, college: Purdue), according to Solobasket.com. The player graduated at Purdue University earlier this year. He shined with 16.4 ppg, 7.2 rpg and 1.9 apg for 35 games as a senior. The player was named to NABC Division I All-District 7 2nd Team -12. As a junior Hummel registered 15.7 ppg, 6.9 rpg and 2.1 apg for 27 games. He missed 2010/11 season due to injury, but he was granted an extra year with the school. Robbie Hummel was selected as 58th overall pick at the 2012 NBA draft. The Minnesota Timbwerolves used their pick to select the player. He played for the Wolves at the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas averaging 3.6 points and 3.8 rebounds for 5 games. Robbie Hummel played for the USA University National Team in 2009. They won the Bronze at the World University Games.

Update: Obradoiro officially signed rookie Robbie Hummel.


NCAA, NBA, NHL and NFL sue NJ to stop it from allowing sports betting - by Eurobasket News

The NCAA and the four major professional leagues sued New Jersey on Tuesday, saying the state's plan to allow sports betting violates federal law and threatens the "character and integrity" of sporting events.

Major League Baseball, the National Basketball Association, the National Hockey League, the National Football league and the NCAA filed the lawsuit in federal court in Trenton.

The leagues say New Jersey's proposal to allow sports betting is "in clear and flagrant violation" of a 1992 federal law, the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act, which restricts betting on collegiate and professional games to four states: Delaware, Montana, Nevada and Oregon. New Jersey was given a chance to become the fifth state, but declined to act during a yearlong window from 1993 to 1994.

Gov. Chris Christie signed a law in January to allow sports betting at New Jersey's 12 casinos, four racetracks and on the site of a closed racetrack. In May, he said he would move forward with the regulations without attempting to get the 1992 law overturned. The regulations were published in July and are expected to become effective within the next two months.

Christie on Tuesday predicted the state would prevail.

"I don't believe that the federal government has the right to decide that only certain states can have sports gambling. On what basis?" Christie said. "And it doesn't acknowledge that there is illegal sports gambling going on in every state in America, as we speak. So why is this more injurious than illegal sports gambling to the operations of the league or the NCAA?"

The leagues' lawsuit said that allowing sports gambling in New Jersey would threaten the "reputations and goodwill" between fans and teams. Damage to that bond, the lawsuit states, would cause irreversible damage to sports franchises.

"The sponsorship, operation, advertising, promotion, licensure and authorization of sports gambling in New Jersey," the lawsuit states, "would irreparably harm amateur and professional sports by fostering suspicion that individual plays and final scores of games may have been influenced by factors other than honest athletic competition."

The leagues say they will fight the expansion of sports betting because it "undermines the public's faith and confidence in the character of amateur and professional team sports."

That fight could continue in other venues. A bill is pending in the California Assembly to allow sports betting, and U.S. Rep. Frank LoBindo, R-N.J., sponsored a federal bill that would give states a four-year window to enact legislation to allow for it.

The New Jersey law allows casinos and racetracks to operate sports betting pools that are approved by the state Division of Gaming Enforcement and the New Jersey Racing Commission. It also allows the state to issue licenses for sports betting parlours.

The state constitution prohibits gambling on collegiate athletic events taking place in New Jersey and where one or more New Jersey team is competing.

Half the revenue from the new law will go toward gambling-treatment programs.

The Casino Association of New Jersey said in a statement Tuesday that the casinos should "be legally able to offer sports betting as do our counterparts in Nevada." The association said it hopes the end result "is a level playing field for all New Jersey casinos."

State Sen. Raymond J. Lesniak, a longtime supporter of sports gambling who sponsored the bill Christie signed into law, said he and others welcomed the lawsuit.

The sooner the federal law is overturned, Lesniak said, "the quicker we'll be able to start sports betting in New Jersey."

Courtesy of www.vancouversun.com


Cougars defeat Tigers 75-74 in Australian opener - by Eurobasket News

Brock Motum (6'10''-F-90) scored 14 of his 21 points in the second half, including a game-winning putback, as the Washington State University mens basketball team edged out the Melbourne Tigers of the NBL (National Basketball League), 75-74, Tuesday, Aug. 7 at Kilsyth Sports Centre. The exhibition game was the first of five for the Cougars, who are in Australia for a 14-day, four city, International tour.

Motum, a senior, added 7 rebounds to his 21 points and was 9-for-15 from the field. Sophomore Davonte Lacy (6'3''-G-93) added 16 points for WSU, while senior Reggie Moore (6'1''-G-89) was the other Cougar in double figures with 11 points and 6 assists. Fellow senior Mike Ladd led both teams with 10 rebounds and was one point shy of a double-double with 9.

The Tigers were led by Chris Goulding (6'4''-G-88) with 20 points, while Nate Tomlinson had 14 points and Auryn MacMillan chipped in 12. MacMillan added 6 blocked shots and 9 rebounds.

The game came down to the wire as Melbourne erased a 7-point deficit (67-60 with 3:50 left in the game). The Tiger run started with a 3-pointer by Goulding to put his team within 2 points, 71-69, with just over a minute to play. WSU couldnt convert on its next possession and Moore fouled Goulding on a 3-pointer on the next Melbourne possession, putting him at the line for 3 free throws. Goulding hit all 3 and gave the home team a 72-71 lead with 40.6 seconds remaining in the game. Still with hope, Moore found an open Ladd on the next possession to quickly get the lead back at 73-72 now with 35 seconds to go.

The Tigers werent going to go down easy either. Tommy Greer took a 3-point shot with 20 seconds to go, and missed, but Goulding, who had a stellar quarter, was there for the offensive rebound. The ball ended up back to Greer who scored to give his team the lead back at 74-73 and just 13 seconds on the clock. It was down to one more play for the Cougars. Moore took charge once again, but this time took it to the hoop himself. He missed, but Motum was there for the quick putback and the 75-74 advantage with 3.3 seconds left. The Tigers werent done yet, putting up one more shot, which rolled out of the rim as the crowd held its breath. The buzzer went off and WSU escaped with a 75-74 victory in its first game of the five-game international tour.

WSU opened the second half with 7-straight points to pull within 3 points at 43-30 with 6:30 to go, led by four points from Motum and three from Moore. The Tigers followed with 4-straight of their own extending the lead back to 7 at 47-40 with 5:43 to go in the third quarter. Trailing 53-48, Lacy took over the game. After hitting 1-of-2 free throws, he followed with a layup, an assist on a bucket by D.J. Shelton and a 3-pointer for an 8-0 WSU run for a 56-53 lead with 42 seconds remaining in the quarter. WSU held on for the same lead at the end of the third.

Throughout the second quarter, the Tigers doubled their lead, beginning the period with a 5-point lead, 25-20. WSU started the second quarter with a 6-2 run to pull within one point, 27-26 just three and a half minutes into the quarter. Melbourne put together an 8-0 run for a 9-point, 36-26 lead with 4 minutes to go in the second. The Tigers extended the lead to 43-33 at halftime. Motum scored seven of his nine points in that period, while Lacy had 7 points at halftime.

The Cougars and Tigers went back-and-forth for the majority of the first quarter. WSU scored first as Lacy went 1-for-2 from the free throw line early on. A long jumper by Motum gave WSU a 3-0 lead, before Melbourne scored seven-straight for a 7-3 lead. The Cougars countered and eventually tied the game at 13 with 4:10 left in the first quarter. With the game tied at 20 with 43.3 seconds to go, the Tigers scored five-straight, including a 3-point play and closely missed a last-second half-court shot to take a 25-20 lead after the first 10 minutes. Lacy led the way with 5 points in the first quarter, as Moore, Ladd and Kernich-Drew each added 3.

WSU next heads to Sydney for two games. The first of the two games is scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 9 at 1 p.m. (Wednesday, Aug. 8 at 8 p.m. PT) in North Sydney against Norths Invitational Team.

Courtesy of http://news.wsu.edu


OK State suspends C Philip Jurick indefinitely - by Eurobasket News

Oklahoma State center Philip Jurick (6'11''-C-89) has been suspended indefinitely after he pleaded not guilty to charges that he possessed marijuana and drug paraphernalia.

Coach Travis Ford announced Tuesday that Jurick will not travel with the Cowboys on their upcoming foreign tour in Spain and that a final decision on his status will be made when more information is obtained.

Jurick was charged Monday with counts of possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. He pleaded not guilty to the misdemeanor charges Monday, and he was scheduled to appear again in court on Aug. 20.

Jurick played in 27 games and started 16 for Oklahoma State last season before injuries ended his season. The 6-foot-11 center averaged 1.6 points and 4.9 rebounds.

Courtesy of http://msn.foxsports.com


UNC at Indiana, OSU at Duke highlight ACC/Big Ten Challenge schedule - by Eurobasket News

The dates and times for the 14th annual ACC/Big Ten Challenge were announced Tuesday.

They are:

(Rankings below are from the latest Top 25 (and one) preseason poll.)

----- November 27 -----

Iowa at Virginia Tech (7:15 ET)
No. 24 Minnesota at Florida State (7:15 ET)
No. 18 N.C. State at No. 5 Michigan (7:30 ET)
Nebraska at Wake Forest (9:15 ET)
Maryland at Northwestern (9:15 ET)
No. 9 North Carolina at No. 2 Indiana (9:30 ET)

----- November 28 -----

Virginia at No. 17 Wisconsin (7 ET)
Purdue at Clemson (7:15 ET)
No. 7 Michigan State at Miami (7:30 ET)
Georgia Tech at Illinois (9 ET)
Boston College at Penn State (9:15 ET)
No. 13 Ohio State at No. 12 Duke (9:30 ET)

The ACC leads the series 10-3 all-time, though the Big Ten has won the past three events.

Courtesy of www.cbssports.com


Court overturns $1M award against Minnesota, Smith - by Eurobasket News

The Minnesota Supreme Court has overturned a $1 million award against the University of Minnesota and men's basketball coach Tubby Smith over the hiring of an assistant coach.

Jimmy Williams quit his job as an assistant coach at Oklahoma State in 2007 because he believed Smith had hiring authority when he offered him an assistant coaching job. Minnesota later withdrew the offer because Williams had NCAA rules violations during a previous stint as an assistant for the Golden Gophers more than 20 years ago.

Williams sued, and a Hennepin County jury and the state appeals court sided with him. But the Minnesota Supreme Court on Wednesday reversed those decisions, saying Williams was not entitled to protection against negligent misrepresentations from Smith about his hiring authority.

Courtesy of www.kfvs12.com


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  NORWAY   


Norwegian U18 National Team 2012 - by Greg

Norwegian U18 National Team 2012
#s#
Nikola Blatancic
Blatancic
Andrija Blatancic
Blatancic
Simon Egaas
Egaas
Magnus Elgmork
Elgmork
Espen Fjaerestad
Fjaerestad
#e#5
Nikola Blatancic 192-F-94 Froya Basket Norway
Andrija Blatancic 195-SG-95
Simon Egaas 188-SG-94
Magnus Elgmork 181-PG-95 Baerum Basket Norway
Espen Fjaerestad 188-G-94 Gimle BBK Norway
Vuk Krivokapic 193-SF-95
Marko Lepovic 193-F-94 Centrum Norway
Peter Midtvedt 180-PG-94 Asker Aliens Norway
Franck Millestad 186-G/F-95 Sandvika Norway
Nicholas Seach 180-PG-94 Gimle BBK Norway
Even Skjellaug 190-G-95
Sigurd Staver 201-SF-94 Baerum Basket Norway
Matz Stockman 207-C-95
Sondre Tallakasen 186-G-94

Pal Berg Head Coach Baerum Basket Norway
Ellen Hamremoen Assistant



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  OLYMPIC GAMES   

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Patrick MILLS
  AUS
  (183-PG-88)
  Avg: 21.5
 1. Mills, AUS21.5 
 2. Scola, ARG19.7 
 3. Ginobili, ARG19.3 
 4. Gasol, ESP18.8 
 5. Kirilenko, RUS18.3 
 6. Durant, USA17.8 
 7. Anthony, USA17.3 
 8. Barbosa, BRA16.2 
 9. Deng, ENG15.8 
 10. Parker, FRA15.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jianlian YI
  CHN
  (212-PF-87)
  Avg: 10.2
 1. Yi, CHN10.2 
 2. Mejri, TUN10.0 
 3. Diogu, NGR9.5 
 4. Ben Ghnia, TUN8.6 
 5. Nene, BRA8.0 
 6. Mensah-Bonsu, ENG7.3 
 7. Kirilenko, RUS7.3 
 8. Love, USA7.2 
 9. Varejao, BRA7.0 
 10. Gasol, ESP6.8 
Assists Per Game
 Pablo PRIGIONI
  ITA
  (191-PG-77)
  Avg: 6.5
 1. Prigioni, ARG6.5 
 2. Huertas, BRA6.0 
 3. Shved, RUS5.5 
 4. James, USA5.5 
 5. Paul, USA5.3 
 6. Jasikevicius, LTU5.3 
 7. Williams, USA5.0 
 8. Kalnietis, LTU4.8 
 9. Khryapa, RUS4.7 
 10. Ponkrashov, RUS4.7 
Steals Per Game
 Chris PAUL
  (183-PG-85)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. Paul, USA2.7 
 2. Aminu, NGR2.3 
 3. Kirilenko, RUS2.2 
 4. Ben Ghnia, TUN1.8 
 5. Durant, USA1.8 
 6. Prigioni, ARG1.8 
 7. Nielsen, AUS1.8 
 8. De Colo, FRA1.7 
 9. Ginobili, ARG1.7 
 10. James, USA1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Salah MEJRI
  TUN
  (217-C-86)
  Avg: 3.4
 1. Mejri, TUN3.4 
 2. Yi, CHN2.2 
 3. Ibaka, ESP1.5 
 4. Kirilenko, RUS1.5 
 5. Batum, FRA1.5 
 6. Gasol, ESP1.5 
 7. Seraphin, FRA1.3 
 8. Kaun, RUS1.0 
 9. Aminu, NGR1.0 
 10. Jankunas, LTU1.0 


USA, Russia, Spain and Argentina stay in title race - by Eurobasket News

France - Spain 59-66
Spain became the second semifinalists of Olympic Games basketball tournament. They prevailed against France in a dramatic battle in London. The victory set up Spain vs. Russia clash in the semifinal on Friday. Marc Gasol (216-C-85, agency: Interperformances) provided 14 points and 5 boards to lead the winners. France cleared off to a 22:15 late in the opening quarter. Rudy Fernandez capped the period with a jumper to cut the deficit to 5 points. Les Bleus maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. They recorded a 37:34 halftime advantage. But Spain tipped off the second half with seven points in a row to take a 41:37 lead. The teams then went neck and neck throughout the reminder of the third quarter. The lead changed hands for several times before France made it 53:51 with ten minutes remaining. Serg Ibaka and Llull gave Spin a 58:57 lead midway through the final stanza. Both teams then went scoreless for almost four minutes before Rudy Fernandez and Marc Gasol made it 62:57 for Spain. Calderon and Pau Gasol extended the lead to 9 points in the dying seconds and a jumper from Gelabale just sweetened the pill for France. Juan Carlos Navarro (192-G-80) posted 12 points, Pau Gasol added 10 points in the victory. Boris Diaw (203-PF-82) and Tony Parker (188-PG-82) responded with 15 points each for France.

Russia - Lithuania 83-74
Russia advanced into the semifinal stage of Olympic basketball tournament. David Blatt's team held off Lithuania in the first quarterfinal tonight. Andrei Kirilenko (209-F-81) scored 19 points and 13 rebounds to lead the winners. Lithuania led just in the opening minutes. Valanciunas gave the Baltic team a 9:6 lead midway through the first term. But Russia quickly gained the advantage and used an 11:1 run to make it 17:10 at the first break. The gap grew at 9-point mark early in the second quarter. But Darius Songaila put Lithuania within 5 points at the interval. Jasikevicius committed several crucial turnovers early in the third term as Russia gained back a 9-point lead 41:32. Soon Viktor Khryapa made it 46:32 for Russia. But Lithuania remained in the game as Pocius and Kalnietis trimmed the deficit to 4 points with one quarter remaining 54:50. Rimantas Kaukenas (192-SG-77, college: Seton Hall) put Lithuania within one at the start of the fourth frame but Russia used a 7:0 run to earn a 64:55 lead midway through the final stanza. Darius Songaila and Rimantas Kaukenas kept intrigue alive for some time but Andrei Kirilenko and Fridzon extended the gap 11 points and Russia secured the winning outcome at the end. Timofey Mozgov (215-C-86, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav) finished with 17 points, while Viktor Khryapa added 12 points, 8 assists and 6 boards for the winners. Rimantas Kaukenas answered with 19 points for Lithuania. Darius Songaila had 15 points in the loss.

Brazil - Argentina 77-82
Argentina will play at Olympic basketball tournament semifinal. They overcame their archrivals Brazil in the quarterfinal clash tonight. Luis Scola (204-PF-80) knocked down 17 points to pace the winners. The lead changed hands for several times throughout intense first quarter. Marcelinho Huertas (191-PG-83, agency: Edge Sports) capped it with a three-pointer to give Brazil a 26:23 lead. Argentina gained a 35:30 lead midway through the second frame. Carlos Carlos Delfino (200-SF-82) crowned the first half with a free throw as Argentina gained a 46:40 lead. Argentina tipped off the second half on an 8:3 run to take a 54:44 lead. The margin soon grew at 15-point mark before Brazil cut it back to 10 points with ten minutes remaining 54:64. Nene Hilario and Leandrinho Barbosa (190-PG-82) put Brazil within 4 points 66:70 with just five minutes remaining. Garcia dragged Brazil within two but Emanuel Ginobili (198-SG-77, agency: Interperformances), Luis Scola, Carlos Delfino and Prigioni knocked down 8 straight free throws late in regulation to seal the victory for Argentina. Carlos Delfino and Emanuel Ginobili provided 16 points each for the winners. Marcelinho Huertas and Leandrinho Barbosa had 22 points apiece for Brazil.

USA - Australia 119-86
USA completed semifinal picture at the Olympic basketball tournament. They knocked down Australia to earn the spot in the semifinal clash versus Argentina. Kevin Durant opened the scoring with a three-pointer but the Boomers reacted adequately and soon surged ahead. The teams stayed close before the USA surged ahead for a 19:12 lead. Team USA soon opened a 10-point lead at 26:16. But Patrick Mills (183-PG-88, college: St.Mary's, CA) put Australia within 7 points at the first break 21:28. Kevin Durant opened the second term with a triple and Team USA shortly accumulated a 12-point lead. They kept the Boomers at distance in the second quarter posting a 56:42 lead at halftime. Australia surprised USA with an 11:0 run at the start of the second half. Kevin Durant stopped the bleeding with a three-pointer. Kobe Bryant (198-SG-78) then drilled back-to-back three-pointers for the USA as they earned a 70:58 lead midway through the third term. USA entered the fourth frame up by 14 points 84:70. They stayed in control in the final frame. The Boomers tried hard but could not threaten the margin at the dying stages of the game. Kobe Bryant topscored with 20 points. Deron Williams (191-PG-84, college: Illinois) added 18 points, while Carmelo Anthony had 17 points. LeBron James accounted for triple-double of 11 points, 14 boards and 11 assists in the win. Patrick Mills answered with 26 points for Australia. Joe Ingles had 19 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists in the loss.


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  POLAND   


Asseco Prokom keeps Szczotka, Hrycaniuk and Witka - by Eurobasket News

Asseco Prokom officially extended deals with Piotr Szczotka (196-F-81, agency: Alti Sport), Adam Hrycaniuk (206-C-84, agency: Alti Sport, college: Cincinnati) and Robert Witka (205-F-81).
Piotr Szczotka arrived to the club in 2008 from Energa Czarni Slupsk. Last season he had 4.4 ppg and 2.7 rpg for 25 PLK games. He had pretty close numbers in VTB United League and slightly lower digits for 10 Euroleague appearances. He was named Eurobasket.com All-Polish League Defensive Player of the Year -12. Szczotka had 1.8 ppg and 1 rpg for 5 games with the Polish National Team at 2011 EuroBasket in Lithuania.
Adam Hrycaniuk joined Asseco Prokom also in 2008 and it was his first professional deal. Hrycaniuk shined last season with 9.5 ppg and 8.3 rpg for 25 PLK games. His numbers were lower in VTB and Euroleague. The player had 11 ppg and 6 rpg for 5 games at the EuroBasket in Lithuania.
Robert Witka will play his third straight season with Asseco Prokom. In the latest one he had 3 ppg and 1.5 rpg for 10 PLK games.


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  PORTUGAL   


Portuguese U18 National Team 2012 - by Greg

Portuguese U18 National Team 2012
#s#
Francisco Amiel
Amiel
Pedro Bastos
Bastos
Rodolfo Castro
Castro
Ricardo Conceicao
Conceicao
Carlos Fontes
Fontes
#e#5
Francisco Amiel 186-PG-96 BAC Portugal
Pedro Bastos 184-PG-94 Petroleos Angola
Rodolfo Castro 202-C-95
Ricardo Conceicao 180-G-94
Carlos Fontes 190-F-95
Joao Gallina 192-SF-94 Benfica Portugal
Diogo Gameiro 184-G-95 Benfica Portugal
Joao Grosso 196-F-94
Joao Guimaraes 196-C-95
Isaias Insaly 197-F/C-95
Rui Jesus 202-C-94
Guilherme Maia 191-F/C-94 Benfica B Portugal
Pedro Marques 186-PG-95 Ginasio Portugal
Pedro Meireless 184-G/F-95
Benvindo Mendes 200-C-96 Seixal Portugal
Andre Miguens 184-SF-94 Benfica Portugal
Jose Miranda 189-SF-94
Antonio Moreira 195-C-95
Miguel Oliveira 195-F/C-94
Henrique Piedade 189-SF-94
Agenor Rolo 193-F-95
Goncalo Silva 181-PG-94
Joao Soares 195-C-94
Diogo Ventura 189-PG-94 Benfica Portugal

Carlos Seixas Head Coach
Raul Santos Assistant



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  PUERTO RICO   


Puerto Rican signings abroad: - by Luis Modestti

Many Puerto Rican players play abroad to stay active since the BSN is played for only four months. Most of them are now in the Dominican Republic while they get a better offer in Europe or Asia and others have their sights set in elite competition.

Andres Rodriguez (184-PG-81, college: American) makes his debut today for Titanes del Licey in the Dominican National League. Rodriguez is expected to play there for a while and then goes to Blusens Monbus in the Spanish ACB where he renewed his contract.

Another Puerto Rican who signed in the second best league in the world is John Holland (195-G/F-88, college: Boston U.) who joins Cajasol. Holland played last season in France with Roanne where he averaged 14.1 points.

Renaldo Balkman (201-F-84, college: S.Carolina) wont play in the NBA for the first time in his pro career by signing with Panathinaikos in Greece. It will be interesting to see Balkman play in an European League after some years of FIBA experience with the Puerto Rican national team.

Ramon Clemente (200-PF-85, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: Wichita St.) goes back to Israel by signing with Ironi Nahariya of the National League. He has played in that league since 2009 where he is one of the most dominant forwards.

Guard Joel Jones (196-G/F-81, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Sacramento St.) signed with Indios de San Francisco in the Dominican League. He makes his debut tonight against Titanes. He had a good season with Piratas and is expected to build from that.

More Puerto Rican players are expected to sign in the Dominican Republic, Asia, South America and Europe soon so stay tuned.


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  ROMANIA   


Rickey Huckaby pens deal with Timba Timisoara - by Eurobasket News

Rickey Huckaby (188-G-83, college: Tex.A&M-Kingsv.) pens deal with Timba Timisoara for the upcoming season. The American Guard comes back to Europe.
In 2009 Rickey Huckaby played for Wamsler SE Salgotarjan. In 7 games his stats read 21.3ppg, 2.6rpg, 3.6apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 48.9%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 77.4%.
Huckaby played most recently at Team Geneva (Eurobasket) in the U.S. Huckaby graduated from Tex.A&M-Kingsv. In 2007 with an average of 12.8ppg, 2.5rpg, 2.8apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 44.5%, 3PT: 31.1%, FT: 71.0% in 28 games in his senior year. Rickey is well known in Kuwait where he spent 2 seasons in a row and claiming best scorer in the league in 2008-09 with al Sahel averaging 20 games: Score-1 (31.6ppg), 5.8rpg, 4.4apg, 3.1spg.
In 2011 he participated at the H.L.S.A. International Showcase. In 2011 he played forTokyo (Eurobasket Summer League in Houston, starting five) and in 3 games showed 21.0ppg, 2.7rpg, 4.0apg, 1.3spg.


Romanian U18 National Team 2012 - by Greg

Romanian U18 National Team 2012
#s#
Cristian Anghel
Anghel
Andrei Ciordas
Ciordas
Vlad Cobzaru
Cobzaru
Raul Covaciu
Covaciu
Andrei Damian
Damian
#e#5
Cristian Anghel 193-SF-94 U.Mobitel.CN Romania
Andrei Ciordas 203-PF-95 CSM 2 Oradea Romania
Vlad Cobzaru 203-C-95 Politehnica Romania
Raul Covaciu 201-C-95 Timisoara Romania
Andrei Damian 196-SG-94 Ploiesti Romania
Florin Dascalescu 207-C-94 Politehnica Romania
Zoltan Derzsi 201-PF-94 CS Vabova Romania
Mirel Dragoste 184-PG-95 U.Mobitel II Romania
Andrei Ene 202-C-95 Ploiesti Romania
Mehmet Hortoglu 194-SG-95 Dinamo B. Romania
Mario Lazar 201-PF-94 U.Mobitel.CN Romania
Cosmin Matasaru 190-SG-94 Pitesti Romania
Radu Morariu 190-PG-94 A.Vlaicu Buc. Romania
Alin Olaru 188-PG-95
Victor Paun 202-SF-94
Vlad Popovici 200-PF-94 Politehnica Romania
Dimitris Rasty 200-PF-95 A.Vlaicu Buc. Romania
Catalin Staicu 199-SF-95 A.Vlaicu Buc. Romania
Ovidiu Stochici 181-PG-95 Brasov Romania
Vlad Stoicoviciu 191-SG-94 A.Vlaicu Buc. Romania
Vlad Tincu 188-SG-94
Mihail Ursuleanu 205-C-94 U.Mobitel.CN Romania

Eugen Ilie Head Coach Otopeni Romania
Paul-Ionel Miron Assistant



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  RUSSIA   


Nizhny Novgorod brings in Filip Videnov - by Eurobasket News

Filip Videnov (196-F/G-80, agency: Alti Sport, college: W.Kentucky) will continue his career in Russia. The Bulgarian guard signed a deal with Nizhny Novgorod. Videnov arrives to the club from Olin Edrine, where he spent last season. He appeared 23 times in Turkish TBL averaging 14 points, 3.4 rebounds and 3.1 assists. The guard also added 17.5 ppg, 2.5 apg and 2 rpg for two EuroChallenge appearances. Before Olin Edrine, Filip Videnov spent one year with Asseco Prokom. They won the Polish league title together. In the past, he played for FMP Zeleznik, Crvena Zvezda, Gran Canaria, Rieti, Real Madrid etc. Filip Videnov is active member of the Bulgarian National Team since 2002. Last summer in Lithuania he had 13.4 ppg and 5.2 rpg for 5 games.


Triumph Lyubertsy keep Sergey Karasev and Mikhail Kulagin - by Eurobasket News

Triumph Lyubertsy keep Sergey Karasev (200-SG-93) and Mikhail Kulagin (188-G-94) for the upcoming season.
Sergey Karasev started his career for Triumph Lyubertsy U23 (U-23 Youth League, starting five). In 2010-2011 for Triumph Lyubertsy (PBL) he averaged 7.8ppg, 2.4rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 55.3%, 3PT: 32.3%, FT: 82.6%, played also at Triumph Lyubertsy U23 (U-23 Youth League, starting five). Last year he erupted with 12.5ppg, 3.5rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 54.1%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 87.3% in EuroChallenge and in Baltic League showed 14.3ppg, 3.3rpg, 2.4apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 47.3%, 3PT: 45.3%, FT: 88.7%. In Russian League after 22 games his stats read 14.1ppg, 3.7rpg, 2.5apg, FGP: 55.9%, 3PT: 30.4%, FT: 80.0%.
Mikhail Kulagin appeared first in 2009-2010 for CSKA Moscow junior team and In Mar.'11 signed at Triumph Lyubertsy (PBL). The last season he played mostly for Triumph Lyubertsy U23 (U23 Youth League, starting five), but also for Triumph Lyubertsy (PBL). In Baltic League he had 6pts, 4reb.


Matt Nielsen remains with BC Khimky - by Eurobasket News

Matt Nielsen (208-PF-78, agency: Beo Basket) remains with BC Khimky for the next season. The Australia star will stay in Russia.
In 2011-2012 for BC Khimky Moscow Region (Russia-PBL) he averaged 2.9ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.2apg in EuroCup and in VTB League showed 3.5ppg, 2.4rpg. In Russian League after 19 games his stats read 2.8ppg, 2.4rpg, 1.6apg.
Matt Nielsen spent the season 2010 with Olympiakos. He had 9 ppg and 3.8 rpg for the Reds in 16 Greek league games. In Euroleague, Nielsen added 4.4 ppg and 2.9 rpg. He helped Olympiacos to defend the Greek Cup trophy this year. Season 2009/10, Matt Nielsen spent with Valencia. He led them to EuroCup title with 9.6 ppg, 4.8 rpg and 2.5 apg. In ACB, Nielsen added 8.8 ppg, 4.3 rpg and 2.9 apg for 36 games. From 2005 until November of 2009, Nielsen was a member of Lietuvos Rytas. In the past, he also played for PAO and Sydney Kings. With Rytas, Nielsen won three Baltic league titles and one trophy in LKL. Matt Nielsen is active member of the Australian NT since 2000.


Olympics 2012: Russia send Lithuania packing - by Eurobasket News

Russia - Lithuania 83:74

Russia advanced into the semifinal stage of Olympic basketball tournament. David Blatts team held off Lithuania in the first quarterfinal tonight. Andrei Kirilenko (209-F-81) scored 19 points and 13 rebounds to lead the winners.
Lithuania led just in the opening minutes. Valanciunas gave the Baltic team a 9:6 lead midway through the first term. But Russia quickly gained the advantage and used an 11:1 run to make it 17:10 at the first break. The gap grew at 9-point mark early in the second quarter. But Darius Songaila (204-C/F-78, agency: Priority Sports, college: Wake Forest) put Lithuania within 5 points at the interval. Jasikevicius committed several crucial turnovers early in the third term as Russia gained back a 9-point lead 41:32. Soon Viktor Khryapa (205-SF-82) made it 46:32 for Russia. But Lithuania remained in the game as Pocius and Kalnietis trimmed the deficit to 4 points with one quarter remaining 54:50. Rimantas Kaukenas (192-SG-77, college: Seton Hall) put Lithuania within one at the start of the fourth frame but Russia used a 7:0 run to earn a 64:55 lead midway through the final stanza. Darius Songaila and Rimantas Kaukenas kept intrigue alive for some time but Andrei Kirilenko and Fridzon extended the gap 11 points and Russia secured the winning outcome at the end. Timofey Mozgov (215-C-86, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav) finished with 17 points, while Viktor Khryapa added 12 points, 8 assists and 6 boards for the winners. Rimantas Kaukenas answered with 19 points for Lithuania. Darius Songaila had 15 points in the loss.

Russia: Andrei Kirilenko 19+13 boards, Timofey Mozgov 17, Viktor Khryapa 12
Lithuania: Rimantas Kaukenas 19, Darius Songaila 15


Gintaras Krapikas will help Aco Petrovic to guide Unics - by Eurobasket News

Gintaras Krapikas will help Aco Petrovic to guide Unics for the next season. Two specialist are together again after a year in Ukraine.
Last year Azovmash named well-known Lithuanian specialist Gintaras Krapikas assistant coach. Gintaras Krapikas helped Aco Petrovic guide the Ukrainian powerhouse. Gintaras Krapikas worked as assistant coach with Iserlohn, Zalgiris Kaunas and Unics Kazan. He also guided Zalgiris Kaunas in 2008/10 seasons. Gintaras Krapikas also worked as assistant coach of Lithuanian National Team back in 2004/05 seasons.
Later Aco Petrovic was replaced by Gintaras Krapikas . Previously Aco Petrovic worked with Zalgiris, Crvena Zvezda, Unics Kazan, Lokomotiv Roston na Donu, Hemofarm and FMP Zeleznik.
Gintaras Krapikas left Azovmash in February 2012.


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  SEBL   


1st Round Playoff Results-City B-League - by Marcus Tate

Bartow Braves (6) defeats Polk County Boys (3) 75-69
Columbus Storm (4) defeats Cedartown (5) 81-72

Bartow Braves will face #2 seed Cartersville Thunder and Columbus Storm will play undefeated Dalton Wholesale on Thursday. Games begin at 6:30pm.
Metro A-League semi games will follow. Schedule is as follows:

8:30pm Semis: Skyline v. Marietta Outlaws

9:30pm Semis: Baseline v. Fastbreak

Final Four games for SEBL North and SEBL South are scheduled for Saturday August 11th beginning at 4pm.


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  SERBIA   


Radnicki Kragujevac adds Bojan Krstovic to roster - by Eurobasket News

Radnicki Kragujevac is very active on the transfer market these days. After Milos Borisov (201-F-85), Terrico White (196-G-90, college: Mississippi), Mark Worthington (202-PF-83, college: Metro St.) and Stefan Jovic (190-G-90, agency: Kotnik Sports Agency), the Serbian squad added Bojan Krstovic (194-G-80, agency: Interperformances) for the next season. Earlier this summer, Radnicki also extended deal with Steven Markovic (190-G-85).
Bojan Krstovic is coming to Radnicki from Buducnost Voli. He played 26 games in Adriatic league last season averaging 8.3 points, 1.7 rebounds and 1.5 assists. Krstovic also added 8.2 ppg, 2 apg and 2.9 rpg for 13 EuroCup games. Buducnost defended championship title and Cup in Montenegro. They also reached Adriatic League Final Four. Bojan Krstovic was a member of Hemofarm from 2008 to 2011. He had 9.8 ppg, 3.3 rpg and 2.5 apg for 23 Adriatic league games in their last season together. In the past, Krstovic spent several years with FMP Zeleznik. They were Adriatic league and Serbian Cup winners.
Radnicki Kragujevac will compete next season in Serbian and Adriatic league. They reached Serbian league Semis few months ago.


Serbia leave no chance for visiting Hungary in Belgrade - by Eurobasket News

Serbia Hungary 95:60

Serbia leave no chance for visiting Hungary in Belgrade at the start of the Trofej Beograda 2012. The hosts of the tournament overcame Hungary 95:60.
Serbia opened the game with 25-12 and added 24-17 in the second frame. The hosts also dominated the second half and added two victories. Serbia won the third period 29-15 and finished the game with 17-16 in the last stanza.
Dejan Musli (213-C-91, agency: Beo Basket) poured in 14 points to lead all the winners, while Vladimir Stimac (208-C-87, agency: Interperformances) posted 13. Milos Teodosic (195-G-87) notched 11, whilst Aleksandar Rasic (194-G-84, agency: Beo Basket), Nemanja Nedovic (192-PG-91, agency: Beo Basket) and Vladimir Lucic (202-F-89, agency: Beo Basket) scored 10 each. Adam Hanga (201-G-89, agency: TSS Management) answered with 16 points in defeat and Zsolt Szabo (202-F-86, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) notched 9.
In another game Turkey won Trofej Beograda 2012 opener against Slovenia. The Turkish side overcame Slovenian team 80:77 in the first game at the International Tournament in Serbia.

Serbia: Dejan Musli 14, Vladimir Stimac 13, Milos Teodosic 11, Aleksandar Rasic 10, Nemanja Nedovic 10, Vladimir Lucic 10
Hungary: Adam Hanga 16, Zsolt Szabo 9


Radnicki Kragujevac lands Milos Borisov - by Zoran Popovic

Management of Radnicki Kragujevac decides to signs contract with Milos Borisov (201-F-85). Former Hemofarm forward Borisov last season spent in Italy, Banca Tercasa Teramo team and on 30 games in Italian Championship average scored 9.7 points, 4.9 boards per game. Milos Borisov started career in Hemofarm junior team and played for them 8 seasons. In season 2004 - 2005. Borisov win Adriatic league with Hemofarm Vrsac. Milos Borisov is member of Montenegro National team.


Predrag Suput in Cedevita - by Zoran Popovic

Serbian forward Predrag Suput (200-F-77, agency: Beo Basket) will continue career in Cedevita Zagreb. Last season Predra Suput played for Brose Basket and on 10 games in Euroleague average scored 10.9 points, 4.1 boards, 1.5 assists in German league on 40 games average scored 8.4 points, 2.8 boards and 1.8 assists. During the career Suput played for Spartak Subotica, Vojvodina Novi Sad, Partizan Beograd, Hemofarm Vrsac and 5 seasons for Brose Baskets Bamberg.


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  SLOVAKIA   


Slovakian U18 National Team 2012 - by Greg

Slovakian U18 National Team 2012
#s#
Matej Baluch
Baluch
Boris Belavy
Belavy
Vladimir Brodziansky
Brodziansky
Michal Cekovsky
Cekovsky
Michal Dolnik
Dolnik
#e#5
Matej Baluch 192-SG-95 Nova Ves B Slovakia
Boris Belavy 199-SF-95 Pov.Bystrica Slovakia
Vladimir Brodziansky 206-PF-94
Michal Cekovsky 210-F-94 Castellanza Italy
Michal Dolnik 203-C-95
Gabriel Drotar 197-SF-94 UPJS Kosice Slovakia
Tomas Jarolin 208-C-95 USK Praha Czech Republic
Simon Krajcovic 185-PG-94 Vahostav-Zilina Slovakia
Lukas Krajnak 186-PG-94 Nova Ves B Slovakia
Vladimir Kula 194-F-94 Nova Ves B Slovakia
Marek Martincek 192-SF-94
Martin Matejcik 188-G-94 B.Bystrica Slovakia
Vladimir Michalek 183-SG-94 Pov.Bystrica Slovakia
Jakub Mician 198-SF-94 Vahostav-Zilina Slovakia
Vladimir Nemcok 183-PG-95 Liberec Czech Republic
Jakub Petras 208-PF-94 Vahostav-Zilina Slovakia
Tomas Predny 203-PF-94 Nova Ves B Slovakia
Robert Rozim 199-F-94 B.Bystrica Slovakia
Jaroslav Sak 204-PF-94 Inter B Slovakia
Andrej Skvarek 205-C-94 Slavia Kosice Slovakia
Matej Svec 188-SG-94
Milan Vago 202-C-95 Trnava Slovakia

Tibor Jany Head Coach Handlova Slovakia



Peter Seman and Viliam Kosa moved to Nitra - by Eurobasket News

Peter Seman (191-F-77) and Viliam Kosa (190-G-86) moved to Nitra for 2012/2013 season. Both Slovakian players change the teams.
Viliam Kosa played his all career for BK Vahostav-SK Zilina. In 2004-2005 he appeared for BK Vahostav Zilina junior team and then continued with the team up to the last year. In 2011-2012 for BK Vahostav-SK Zilina (Extraliga, starting five) his stats read 9.5ppg, 1.4rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 60.9%, 3PT: 32.3%, FT: 66.7%.
Peter Seman actually started his career for Nitra. Later he played for
K-Cerno Nitra and then moved to MBK Rieker Komarno (Extraliga, starting five). In 28 games he averaged 10.4ppg, 4.0rpg, 2.2apg, 2.1spg, 2FGP: 52.7%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 68.5%. In 2009-2010 moved to BK SPU Nitra (Extraliga, starting five) and had 5.9ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.2apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 52.8%, 3PT: 28.4%, FT: 70.6%. Later signed with Astrum Levice (Extraliga) where his stats read 5.5ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.2spg, FGP: 49.2%, 3PT: 32.0%, FT: 75.0%. The last season played for Onyx Levice (Slovakia-Extraliga, starting five) and after 21 games showed 6.8ppg, 2.5rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 34.3%, FT-1 (91.4%).


Marko Puzic and Nikola Vladovic join Svit - by Eurobasket News

Svit bolstered their roster. They added two new players. They are Marko Puzic (198-SG-85) and Nikola Vladovic (214-F/C-87).
Marko Puzic spent the last three seasons with Napredak in Serbia. Last season the guard notched 10.6 points, 3.1 boards, 2.1 assists and 1.0 steal per game in Balkan League. In Serbian League Marko Puzic delivered 11.3 points, 2.9 rebounds and 1.0 assist per appearance. Previously the guard played for Crnokosa Kosjeric.
Nikola Vladovic played in Hungary last season. He was the member of PVSK Pecs squad. The centre tallied 4.0 points and 3.3 boards per appearance. Previously Nikola Vladovic had stints with Trogir, Sibenka Sibenik, Posusje, Zagorje, Kvarner Resort, KK Split and Plastik Solin. He played for U16 and U18 Croatian National Teams.


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  SLOVENIA   


Turkey wins Trofej Beograda 2012 opener - by Eurobasket News

Slovenia- Turkey 77:80

Turkey wins Trofej Beograda 2012 opener against Slovenia. The Turkish side overcame Slovenian team 80:77 in the first game at the International Tournament in Serbia.
Tureky opened the game with 23:17 and looked better in the court. Although Slovenia produced 18-17 in the second frame. Turkey had 40:35 halftime advantage. Both teams nailed 19 points each in the third period that remained the same difference on the board after 30 minutes. Turkey led 69:63 with 5 minutes to go but managed to keep 3-point victory.
Ender Arslan (190-G-83) top-scored for the winners with 17 points and Sinan Guler (192-SG-83, agency: 1x1 Sports, college: Carroll, MT) nailed 16. Semih Erden (213-C-86) delivered 12, while Ilkan Karaman (205-F-90, agency: Beo Basket) added 10. Gasper Vidmar (211-C/F-87) produced 16 points in the losing case, while Jure Balazic (204-F-80) had 14. Jaka Blazic (193-G-90) and Bostjan Nachbar (207-F-80) poured in 11 points each in defeat.
In another game Serbia will face Hungary.

Slovenia: Gasper Vidmar 16, Jure Balazic 14, Jaka Blazic 11, Bostjan Nachbar 11
Turkey: Ender Arslan 17, Sinan Guler 16, Semih Erden 12, Ilkan Karaman 10


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  SPAIN   


Emmanuel Quezada signs with FIATC Joventut Badalona - by Eurobasket News

Emmanuel Quezada (188-PG-85, college: USF) signs with FIATC Joventut Badalona for the upcoming season. The American-Dominican Rep. point guard moves from Baloncesto Leon.
In 2011-2012 for Baloncesto Leon (Spain-LEB Gold, starting five) he averaged high 16.5ppg, 3.1rpg, 3.4apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 47.4%, 3PT: 39.8%, FT: 83.0%. In Round 7 American-Dominican Rep. point guard Emmanuel Quezada put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Leon, receiving a Eurobasket.com LEB Gold Player of the Week award. The 26-year old player was the main contributor (33 points, three rebounds and three assists) to his team's victory, helping them to beat Menorca 94-79. The game rather meaningless between the teams, which do not have any influence on the top of the standings. In the team's last game Quezada had a remarkable 72.7% from 2-point range. It's his second year at Leon and it's hard to imagine this team without him. Former University of San Francisco star has very solid stats this year.

In his last year for USF (NCAA, starting five) he averaged 10.6ppg, 2.4rpg, 3.0apg, FGP: 46.0%, 3Pts: 39.7%, FT: 84.2%.


Olympics 2012: Spain survive quarterfinal thriller against France - by Eurobasket News

Spain - France 66:59

Spain became the second semifinalists of Olympic Games basketball tournament. They prevailed against France in a dramatic battle in London. The victory set up Spain vs. Russia clash in the semifinal on Friday. Marc Gasol (216-C-85, agency: Interperformances) provided 14 points and 5 boards to lead the winners.
France cleared off to a 22:15 late in the opening quarter. Rudy Fernandez capped the period with a jumper to cut the deficit to 5 points. Les Bleus maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. They recorded a 37:34 halftime advantage. But Spain tipped off the second half with seven points in a row to take a 41:37 lead. The teams then went neck and neck throughout the reminder of the third quarter. The lead changed hands for several times before France made it 53:51 with ten minutes remaining. Serg Ibaka and Llull gave Spin a 58:57 lead midway through the final stanza. Both teams then went scoreless for almost four minutes before Rudy Fernandez and Marc Gasol made it 62:57 for Spain. Calderon and Pau Gasol (214-F/C-80) extended the lead to 9 points in the dying seconds and a jumper from Gelabale just sweetened the pill for France. Juan Carlos Navarro (192-G-80) posted 12 points, Pau Gasol added 10 points in the victory. Boris Diaw (203-PF-82) and Tony Parker (188-PG-82) responded with 15 points each for France.

Spain: Marc Gasol 14, Juan Carlos Navarro 12, Pau Gasol 10
France: Boris Diaw 15, Tony Parker 15


FIATC Joventut signs American PG Corey Fisher - by Eurobasket News

FIATC Joventut reinforced its roster at position one. The team brought in American point guard Corey Fisher (185-G-88, college: Villanova). He arrives to the club from Turkish Antalya. Walker appeared 30 times in TBL last season averaging 17.2 points, 4.4 assists and 3.5 rebounds. He participated at TBL All-Star Game and was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Turkish League Honorable Mention -12. It was the first pro deal for Corey Fisher, who graduated at Villanova University something more than a year ago. He had 15.6 ppg, 4.8 apg and 2.8 rpg for his school as a senior. After that, Fisher participated at 2011 Portsmouth Invitational Tournament (Pre-NBA Draft). He had 9 ppg, 6 apg and 3 rpg for 3 games at this event. This summer Corey Fisher played for the Minnesota Timberwolves at the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas. He appeared 5 times for the team collecting 6.4 ppg, 1.6 apg and 1.4 rpg.


FIATC Joventut keeps Albert Oliver - by Eurobasket News

FIATC Joventut announced signing of a 1-year contract extension with Albert Oliver (187-G-78). The player arrived last summer from Estudiantes. He had 5.1 ppg, 2.9 apg and 2.4 rpg in 34 Liga Endesa games. A year ago Oliver reached EuroCup Quarterfinals with Estudiantes. He had 5.9 ppg, 2.2 rpg and 2.2 apg for them in 11 EuroCup games. The player registered almost the same numbers for 32 games in ACB. Oliver played for the Students also in 2009/10. Before that, he spent three years with Pamesa Valencia. They reached ULEB Cup Quarterfinals together in 2008. In the past, Albert Oliver was a member of Manresa and Lleida. He played for Sant Josep Juventut Badalona more than 10 years ago.


Lagun Aro GBC extends Manolis Papamakarios for 2012/13 - by Eurobasket News

Lagun Aro GBC announced signing of Emmanouil Papamakarios (192-G-80) to a 1-year contract extension. It will be their second season together. In the latest one Papamakarios appeared 36 times in Liga Endesa averaging 3.4 points and 1.5 rebounds. He arrived to the club last summer from Panellinios Athens. The Greek guard was a member of Panellinios from 2008. He had 8.1 ppg, 2.5 apg and 2.3 rpg for 21 Greek league games in their last season together. The player had slightly lower numbers for 10 EuroCup games. From 2005 to 2008, Emmanouil Papamakarios played for Olympiakos. He also has experience from Makedonikos and Peristeri. In 2009, Papamakarios was named Eurobasket.com All-Greek A1 League Most Improved Player of the Year.


Obradoiro signs rookie Robbie Hummel - by Eurobasket News

Obradoiro is close to sign rookie forward Robbie Hummel (203-F-89, agency: Priority Sports, college: Purdue), according to Solobasket.com. The player graduated at Purdue University earlier this year. He shined with 16.4 ppg, 7.2 rpg and 1.9 apg for 35 games as a senior. The player was named to NABC Division I All-District 7 2nd Team -12. As a junior Hummel registered 15.7 ppg, 6.9 rpg and 2.1 apg for 27 games. He missed 2010/11 season due to injury, but he was granted an extra year with the school. Robbie Hummel was selected as 58th overall pick at the 2012 NBA draft. The Minnesota Timbwerolves used their pick to select the player. He played for the Wolves at the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas averaging 3.6 points and 3.8 rebounds for 5 games. Robbie Hummel played for the USA University National Team in 2009. They won the Bronze at the World University Games.

Update: Obradoiro officially signed rookie Robbie Hummel.


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


Roderick Wilmont to arrive in LF - by Andreas Eriksson

LF Basket has completed their american-duo by officialy announcing the arrival of Roderick Wilmont (193-G-83, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Indiana). Wilmont is described as a scoring 2-3, that is allround. He played at Indiana in College, and has played as profesional in several different countries in Europe. Last season he was with Evreux of the French Pro-B where he averaged 10 ppg. LF Basket has almost compelted their team now after the signing of Wilmont, and formerly of Henry Dugat, but are still searching for one more European player.


Eco Orebro signs two players - by Eurobasket News

Eco Orebro announced signing of Stefan Ilic (206-F-93) and Mario Diez (188-G-82) for the next season.
Stefan Ilic is 19-year-old Serbian forward. Most recently he played for the Slovenian team Geoplin Slovan. He was a member of their junior squad. Ilic also played for Postojna and Novi Sad.
Mario Diez arrives to the club from Leon, where he spent last season. The Spanish point guard had 2.8 ppg, 1.7 rpg and 1.5 apg for 32 games in LEB Gold. In 2010/11 season Diez spent few months with La Palma. With them he had 6.9 ppg, 3.8 rpg and 2 apg for 10 EBA games. In the past, Diez played for Vigo, Oviedo and Burgos. He was a member of Leon also from 2011 to 2004.


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


Swiss U18 National Team 2012 - by Greg

Swiss U18 National Team 2012
#s#
Daniel Andjelkovic
Andjelkovic
Fabio Appavou
Appavou
Cyril Baechler
Baechler
Patrick Bianchi
Bianchi
Petar Bozic
Bozic
#e#5
Daniel Andjelkovic 200-PF-94 SAM Massagno Switzerland
Fabio Appavou 184-G-94 SAM Massagno Switzerland
Cyril Baechler 193-SF-95 Fribourg Switzerland
Patrick Bianchi 180-PG-95 Lugano Tigers Switzerland
Petar Bozic 210-C-95 BC AKA Switzerland
Thomas Bugnon 178-PG-94 Fribourg Switzerland
Arnaud Cotture 201-PF-95 Fribourg Switzerland
Bertrand Galley 197-SF-94 Acad.Fribourg Switzerland
Randon Gruninger 190-SF-95 SAM Massagno Switzerland
Jason Hatch 187-SG-95 SAV Vacallo Switzerland
Sebastian Hoch 198-SF-94 Fribourg Switzerland
Stefan Keranovic 194-PG-95 GC Zurich Switzerland
Branislav Kostic 180-PG-94 Starwings Switzerland
Clayton Le Sann 186-SG-95 Bernex Switzerland
Louis Lopez 182-PG-94 Pully Switzerland
Leo Schittenhelm 194-SF-94 Bern Switzerland
Jan Sedlacek 206-C-95 GC Zurich Switzerland
Mathias Tolusso 186-PF-95
Alessandro Verga 191-PF-95 Starwings Switzerland

Patrice Gress Head Coach
David Jacobsen Assistant GC Zurich Switzerland



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


Turkey wins Trofej Beograda 2012 opener - by Eurobasket News

Slovenia- Turkey 77:80

Turkey wins Trofej Beograda 2012 opener against Slovenia. The Turkish side overcame Slovenian team 80:77 in the first game at the International Tournament in Serbia.
Tureky opened the game with 23:17 and looked better in the court. Although Slovenia produced 18-17 in the second frame. Turkey had 40:35 halftime advantage. Both teams nailed 19 points each in the third period that remained the same difference on the board after 30 minutes. Turkey led 69:63 with 5 minutes to go but managed to keep 3-point victory.
Ender Arslan (190-G-83) top-scored for the winners with 17 points and Sinan Guler (192-SG-83, agency: 1x1 Sports, college: Carroll, MT) nailed 16. Semih Erden (213-C-86) delivered 12, while Ilkan Karaman (205-F-90, agency: Beo Basket) added 10. Gasper Vidmar (211-C/F-87) produced 16 points in the losing case, while Jure Balazic (204-F-80) had 14. Jaka Blazic (193-G-90) and Bostjan Nachbar (207-F-80) poured in 11 points each in defeat.
In another game Serbia will face Hungary.

Slovenia: Gasper Vidmar 16, Jure Balazic 14, Jaka Blazic 11, Bostjan Nachbar 11
Turkey: Ender Arslan 17, Sinan Guler 16, Semih Erden 12, Ilkan Karaman 10


Maliye Milli Piyango inks Baris Erlim - by Eurobasket News

Maliye Milli Piyango added another player for the upcoming season. Turkish point guard Baris Erlim (182-PG-90, agency: 1x1 Sports) penned a 1-year deal with the club. He arrives from Optimum TED Kolejliler Ankara, with whom he won TB2L title last season. The player had 2.7 ppg and 1 rpg for 19 games. Before TED Koleji, Erlim spent few years with Pertevniyal Istanbul. In their last season together the PG registered 7 ppg, 3.1 apg and 2.9 rpg for 25 games. They competed in TB2L.
Earlier this week, Maliye Milli Piyango penned a deal with guard Zach Graham. He spent last season with the NBA D-League team Reno Bighorns. Graham appeared 43 times in the league averaging 10.9 points and 3.2 rebounds.


Erdemir signs G Azmi Turgut - by Eurobasket News

Azmi Turgut (192-G-88, agency: 1x1 Sports) is a new member of Erdemir. The Turkish guard signed a one-year deal with the club. He played last season for TB2L team Usak Universitesi. For 36 games with them Turgut averaged 7.6 points, 1.8 rebounds and 1.4 assists. Before Usak, the guard spent one year with Darussafaka. There he had 8.2 ppg and 1.9 rpg for 23 games. Turgut spent few months with Vestel in 2009/10. He also has experience from Besiktas and Selcuk. Azmi Turgut played for U19 Turkish National Team in the past. He had 2.8 ppg and 1.4 rpg for 9 games at U19 World Championship in Serbia (2007).
Earlier this summer Erdemir landed Jure Balazic and Melih Mahmutoglu. The team also signed Can Ozcan.


Usak Universitesi inks Justin Carter - by Eurobasket News

Usak Universitesi reinforced its roster at position 3. They signed a deal with American forward Justin Carter (193-F-87, agency: Pro Partner Sports Management, college: Creighton), according to Mackolik.com. The player finished last season with Tire Gucu Spor Kulubu. He shined with 18.4 ppg, 5.6 rpg, 2.5 apg and 1.7 spg for 25 games. Carter was named Eurobasket.com All-Turkish TB2L Honorable Mention -12. Justin Carter started the season with Vestel. There he had 14 ppg and 5.9 rpg for 12 games. In 2010/11 season the forward played for Slovakian team Vahostav-SK Zilina. He was one of the best players in the league with 20.9 ppg, 8.1 rpg, 2.5 spg and 2.4 apg for 38 games. Carter was named to Eurobasket.com All-Slovakian League 2nd Team -11 and also Eurobasket.com All-Slovakian League Defensive Player of the Year -11. The player graduated at Creighton University in 2010.


Olin Edirne inks SF Bekir Yarangume - by Eurobasket News

Olin Edirne reinforced its roster at position 3. The team brought in Turkish small forward Bekir Yarangume (200-SF-79), who played last season for Turk Telekom Ankara. He had 4 ppg and 1.3 rpg for 6 EuroChallenge games. The player also added 3.8 ppg and 2.2 rpg for 26 games in TBL. Yarangume played for Turk Telekom also from 2007 to 2010 and from 2002 to 2004. They won the Turkish Cup together in 2008. Season 2010/11 Bekir Yarangume spent with Besiktas Cola Turka. There he had 7.3 ppg and 3.8 rpg for 8 EuroCup games, while his numbers in TBL were lower. The forward played for Besiktas also in 2004/05. Meanwhile he played one year for Ulker and one for Banvit. In the past, Yarangume played few years for Kombassan Konya.


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


Belarus beat Ukraine in Tbilisi - by Eurobasket News

Belarus-Ukraine 75:65

Belarus beat Ukraine in Tbilisi in Day 2 of the International Tournament. Belarus overcame Fratello's team 75:65 as the latter fell at 1-1 record.
Belarus dominated the first quarter and led 24:13 after the first 10 minutes of the game. They had 34:24 midway through the second frame and increased to 12 points at the halftime. Moreover the lead continued to grow in the third period as Belarus enjoyed 45:32 in the middle of the third. They closed the quarter at 60:44 and increased almost to 20 points with 5 minutes to go. Ukraine however managed to reduce to 10 at the end of the game.
Pavel Ulyanko (204-F/C-79) top-scored for the winners with 19 points and Aliaksandr Kudrautsau (190-G-80) notched 16. Artsiom Parakhouski (211-C-87, college: Radford) posted 12, while Aliaksei Lashkevich added 9. Sergii Gladyr (196-G/F-88) finished the game with 18 points in the losing effort, while Kyryl Natyazhko (210-C-90, agency: Beo Basket, college: Arizona) as well as Igor Zaytsev (210-F/C-89) delivered 10 points apiece. Maxym Korniyenko (205-F/C-87) followed them with 8 points.

Belarus: Pavel Ulyanko 19, Aliaksandr Kudrautsau 16, Artsiom Parakhouski 12, Aliaksei Lashkevich 9
Ukraine: Sergii Gladyr 18, Kyryl Natyazhko 10, Igor Zaytsev 10, Maxym Korniyenko 8


Budivelnyk officially announces Delaney and Salenga - by Eurobasket News

As expected, Budivelnyk Kyiv officially announced signing of Malcolm Delaney (191-G-89, college: Virginia Tech). The news was first reported by Eurobasket's David Pick. Delaney led Chalon for French ProA title last season. He shined with 15 ppg, 3.3 apg and 3.1 rpg for 35 games. The player had pretty close numbers for 16 EuroChallenge games as well. Chalon won two more trophies last season: Semaine des As and French Cup. They reached EuroChallenge Finals. It was the first professional deal for Malcolm Delaney, who graduated at Virginia Tech University something more than a year ago. He had 18.7 ppg, 4 apg and 3.5 rpg for his school as a senior. Delaney was even better in his junior season with Virginia Tech. At that time he had 20.2 ppg, 4.5 apg and 3.7 rpg for 33 games.
Transfer of Dainius Salenga (197-F-77) to Budivelnyk Kyiv also became official today. He arrives to the club from Zalgiris Kaunas. Salenga was named to Eurobasket.com Baltic League All-European Players Team -12.
Earlier this week Budivelnyk brought in Emmanuel Jones (200-F-85, college: UTPA) for try-out. At the end of July the former Ukrainian champion landed Tony Skinn (191-G-83, college: George Mason). Last season Skinn played for Ironi Ashkelon averaging 10.6 points, 2.9 assists and 2.7 rebounds in Israeli Premier league.


Ukrainian U18 National Team 2012 - by Greg

Ukrainian U18 National Team 2012
#s#
Igor Boyarkin
Boyarkin
Sergiy Zagreba
Zagreba
Augustyn Kozanchuk
Kozanchuk
Vladyslav Koreniuk
Koreniuk
Stanislav Kudrya
Kudrya
#e#5
Igor Boyarkin 185-PG-95 BC Donetsk Ukraine
Sergiy Zagreba 213-C-94 Dnipro Ukraine
Augustyn Kozanchuk 182-PG-95 Vinnitsky Zubry Ukraine
Vladyslav Koreniuk 209-C-94 Dnipro Ukraine
Stanislav Kudrya 189-PG-95 BC Kyiv Ukraine
Kristian Lugovtsov 197-F-94
Viacheslav Petrov 203-PF-94
Volodymyr Pishchikov 187-SG-94 BC Kyiv Ukraine
Yevgen Sakhniuk 201-PF-95
Vladyslav Smyrnov 196-G/F-94 Dnipro Ukraine
Andrii Kharchynskyi 203-F/C-95 BC Kyiv Ukraine
Volodymyr Shevchenko 200-SF-94 Dnipro Ukraine

Andriy Kharchynskyi Head Coach
Dmytro Markov Assistant Dnipro-DVUFK Ukraine
Stanislav Medvedenko Assistant Budivelnyk Ukraine



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


Zalgiris eye Ksistof Lavrinovic to unite the twins - by Eurobasket News

Zalgiris eye Ksistof Lavrinovic (210-C-79) to unite the twins for the next season. The Lithuanian player might move from Italy.
Ksistof Lavrinovic led Montepaschi to the trophy as the latter celebrated yet another SeriaA title. They fired past Armani Jeans tonight to earn the sixth consecutive crown. Ksistof Lavrinovic delivered 22 points and 7 rebounds to lead the winners.
In 2011-2012 for Montepaschi Siena (Italy-SerieA, starting five) Ksistof Lavrinovic averaged 9.7ppg, 3.9rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 43.9%, 3PT: 44.4%, FT: 71.4% in Euroleague and in Italy had 12.6 points per game.
Ksistof Lavrinovic stayed with Siena for 5 years. In 2006-2007 he played for Unics Kazan (Russia-A Superleague, starting five) and in 15 games averaged 11.6ppg, Reb-3 (7.0rpg), 1.1apg, 1.4spg, Blocks-2 (1.9bpg), 2FGP: 57.8%, 3FGP: 36.8%, FT: 77.3% in ULEB Cup. In Russian League his stats read 13.2ppg, 5.3rpg, 1.5apg, 1.2spg, 1.1bpg, 2FGP: 57.0%, 3PT: 45.0%, FT: 76.0%.



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

Women News


Logan Thunder win big over Auburn University - by Eurobasket News

Touring American college outfit Auburn University are licking their wounds this morning after BDS Logan Thunder upset the visitors 86-54 in the opening match of their Australian tour.

Logan powered past their US opponents in a thrilling exhibition match at NAB Stadium, despite fielding a side comprised of both academy and WNBL players that had never previously played together.

Logan were never really challenged in the match and maintained the lead throughout, building a comfortable 42-25 lead by half-time and extending the buffer to 32 at the final siren.

Bundaberg's Hayley Munro (185-G/F-88, college: Fresno St.) top scored for Logan with 18 points and was well supported by Thunder regular Holly Smith (186-F/C-86), who collected 13 points and Gold Coasts Carine Reimink who had 12.

Veteran Kristen Veal (176-G-81) led the side with 12 assists while newcomer Alice Honnery pulled down 10 rebounds.

The Thunder shot 44 per cent from the field, sunk eight 3-pointers and had 50 points from the bench to help them secure the win.

Auburn in comparison struggled to find the basket and shoot at 32 per cent from the floor and failed to fire from beyond the arc, but to their credit continued to fight throughout the match.

Some of the girls hadnt even seen each other until they met in the change room before the match, so taking that into consideration it was an extremely good effort from the girl, Academy Director and Coach Tony Stephens said after the triumph.

The mix of the WNBL players and the academy players worked really well.

It was interesting for us to see the players we had names on paper for from the two different Academy camps play together in the same game.

Giving them the opportunity to play with others of their own calibre made a big difference and they really stepped up and showed what they are capable of.

Auburn were a bit depleted tonight with several of their players out injured.

They are quality on paper and are in the process of rebuilding their programme ahead of their upcoming NCAA season.

Hasina Muhammad (185-G) had a game-high 24 points to go with four assists and three steals for the Alabama-based side, but her individual brilliance wasnt enough, even with Blanche Alversons 10 point contribution.

Although the Logan outfit isnt the side that will suit up for the South-East Queensland team for their fifth season in the WNBL, the match was an opportunity for the clubs coaching staff to see the talent the region has to offer.

Logan will begin their 2012/13 WNBL campaign on October 6 against Townsville Fire in Townsville. Auburn will continue its Australian Tour on August 10 as the Tigers take on the Cairns Dolphins in Cairns.

Courtesy of WNBL Australia


Lauren Jackson breaks Olympics scoring mark - by Eurobasket News

Storm All-Star Lauren Jackson (6'5''-F/C-81) set the all-time Olympic scoring record in women's basketball Tuesday in a 75-60 win over China.

Jackson scored 12 to give her 536 points in four consecutive Games. The total surpassed Brazilian Janeth Arcain's 535 points, set from 1992-2004. American Lisa Leslie had 499 (1996-2008).

"I am happy, obviously, it's something that's nice, but I hope we win Thursday," Jackson said.

The Aussies play the United States in Thursday's semifinals. The U.S. advanced to the semifinals with a 75-60 win over Canada. Storm point guard Sue Bird had two points and five assists.

Jackson, a three-time WNBA MVP, missed the opening portion of the Storm's season to prepare with her Australian team. If the Aussies don't defeat the four-time defending world champions Thursday, the best Jackson can claim is bronze.

Courtesy of http://seattletimes.nwsource.com


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


Northland releases Nafsika Stavridou - by Eurobasket News

Northland Basket terminated deal with Nafsika Stavridou (182-G-86). The player has to stay in Greece due to personal reasons (studies) and she will be able to join Northland after Christmas. It seems that was too much for the club to wait and they decided to release the player. However, there is a possibility that Stavridou will sign a new deal after Christmas. Nafsika Stavridou spent last season with Aris Thessaloniki. She appeared 23 times in Greek league averaging 12.6 points, 4.3 rebounds, 3 assists and 1.7 steals. In 2010/11, Stavridou was a member of PAOK Thessaloniki. There she had 12.8 ppg, 4.6 rpg and 3.6 apg. For her performance the guard was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Greek League Honorable Mention -11 and she also participated at Greek league All-Star Game. In the past, Stavridou played for Apollon Ptolemaidos and APS Siemens. She is active member of the Greek National Team. She played for the country at 2010 World Championship in Czech Republic.


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


Israel U20 lost two to the Baltic State - by Eurobasket News

Israel U20 lost two to the Baltic State at the preparation campaign for the upcoming European Championship. Israel lost two games to Lithuania in Druskininkai.
In Game 1 Lithuania U20 overcame Israel U20 71:50. The hosts started with 14-9 and added 20-19 in the second frame. Moreover Lithuania produced two victories in the second half to seal the total win. Santa Okockyte (176-PG-92) stepped up with 20 points and Laura Svaryte (190-C/F-92) netted 11.
In Game 2 Lithuania U20 edged Israel U20 94:83. The hosts opened the game with 26-13 and won the second period 23-22. Israel erupted with 32-16 in the third period to enjoy the lead for a short period of time, but they could not win. Lithuania needed a 29-16 surge to seal the victory. Laura Svaryte top-scored for the winners with 21 points and Santa Okockyte notched 17. Ieva Preskienyte (193-C-93) collected 14 points and 10 rebounds, while Neringa Skadaite (184-F-92) added 12.


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


Lithuania U20 prepares well in Druskininkai - by Eurobasket News

Lithuania U20 prepares well in Druskininkai for the upcoming European Championship. The team won the latest 4 games in the last 5 days.
In Game 1 Lithuania U20 overcame Israel U20 71:50. The hosts started with 14-9 and added 20-19 in the second frame. Moreover Lithuania produced two victories in the second half to seal the total win. Santa Okockyte (176-PG-92) stepped up with 20 points and Laura Svaryte (190-C/F-92) netted 11.
In Game 2 Lithuania U20 edged Israel U20 94:83. The hosts opened the game with 26-13 and won the second period 23-22. Israel erupted with 32-16 in the third period to enjoy the lead for a short period of time, but they could not win. Lithuania needed a 29-16 surge to seal the victory. Laura Svaryte top-scored for the winners with 21 points and Santa Okockyte notched 17. Ieva Preskienyte (193-C-93) collected 14 points and 10 rebounds, while Neringa Skadaite (184-F-92) added 12.
Later Lithuanian team beat Ukraine U20 twice. In the first game Lithuanian easily rolled over the opponent 82:54 but then needed a strong finish to seal a 75:74 win.


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


Logan Thunder win big over Auburn University - by Eurobasket News

Touring American college outfit Auburn University are licking their wounds this morning after BDS Logan Thunder upset the visitors 86-54 in the opening match of their Australian tour.

Logan powered past their US opponents in a thrilling exhibition match at NAB Stadium, despite fielding a side comprised of both academy and WNBL players that had never previously played together.

Logan were never really challenged in the match and maintained the lead throughout, building a comfortable 42-25 lead by half-time and extending the buffer to 32 at the final siren.

Bundaberg's Hayley Munro (185-G/F-88, college: Fresno St.) top scored for Logan with 18 points and was well supported by Thunder regular Holly Smith (186-F/C-86), who collected 13 points and Gold Coasts Carine Reimink who had 12.

Veteran Kristen Veal (176-G-81) led the side with 12 assists while newcomer Alice Honnery pulled down 10 rebounds.

The Thunder shot 44 per cent from the field, sunk eight 3-pointers and had 50 points from the bench to help them secure the win.

Auburn in comparison struggled to find the basket and shoot at 32 per cent from the floor and failed to fire from beyond the arc, but to their credit continued to fight throughout the match.

Some of the girls hadnt even seen each other until they met in the change room before the match, so taking that into consideration it was an extremely good effort from the girl, Academy Director and Coach Tony Stephens said after the triumph.

The mix of the WNBL players and the academy players worked really well.

It was interesting for us to see the players we had names on paper for from the two different Academy camps play together in the same game.

Giving them the opportunity to play with others of their own calibre made a big difference and they really stepped up and showed what they are capable of.

Auburn were a bit depleted tonight with several of their players out injured.

They are quality on paper and are in the process of rebuilding their programme ahead of their upcoming NCAA season.

Hasina Muhammad (185-G) had a game-high 24 points to go with four assists and three steals for the Alabama-based side, but her individual brilliance wasnt enough, even with Blanche Alversons 10 point contribution.

Although the Logan outfit isnt the side that will suit up for the South-East Queensland team for their fifth season in the WNBL, the match was an opportunity for the clubs coaching staff to see the talent the region has to offer.

Logan will begin their 2012/13 WNBL campaign on October 6 against Townsville Fire in Townsville. Auburn will continue its Australian Tour on August 10 as the Tigers take on the Cairns Dolphins in Cairns.

Courtesy of WNBL Australia


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

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 


USA, Australia, France and Russia advance to Semifinals in London - 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) scored 17 points for the Australians and Suzy Batkovic-Brown (195-C-80) added 10 points, plus 9 rebounds. 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.

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 (183-SG-82, college: Connecticut) led the winners with 15 points and Candace Parker (193-C-86, college: Tennessee) added 12 points, plus 7 rebounds. Sylvia Fowles (198-C-85, college: LSU) also scored 12 points in this meeting. At the other side, Kimberley Smith (186-F-84, college: Utah) responded with 13 points and 6 rebounds in defeat. Chelsea Aubry (188-F-84, college: Nebraska) was their second scorer with 10 pts and Courtnay Pilypaitis (184-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. hasn't 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.

Turkey - Russia 63-66
Russia eliminated Turkey today in the Olympic Games Quarterfinals. This is the third straight Olympics Semis for Russia. The Russians have had to settle for the bronze medal in 2004 and 2008 - falling to the U.S. each time. After finishing third in their pool, the Russians 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 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 (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 couldn't 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.

France - Czech Republic 71-68
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


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  SWEDEN   


Northland releases Nafsika Stavridou - by Eurobasket News

Northland Basket terminated deal with Nafsika Stavridou (182-G-86). The player has to stay in Greece due to personal reasons (studies) and she will be able to join Northland after Christmas. It seems that was too much for the club to wait and they decided to release the player. However, there is a possibility that Stavridou will sign a new deal after Christmas. Nafsika Stavridou spent last season with Aris Thessaloniki. She appeared 23 times in Greek league averaging 12.6 points, 4.3 rebounds, 3 assists and 1.7 steals. In 2010/11, Stavridou was a member of PAOK Thessaloniki. There she had 12.8 ppg, 4.6 rpg and 3.6 apg. For her performance the guard was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Greek League Honorable Mention -11 and she also participated at Greek league All-Star Game. In the past, Stavridou played for Apollon Ptolemaidos and APS Siemens. She is active member of the Greek National Team. She played for the country at 2010 World Championship in Czech Republic.


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  UKRAINE   


Ukraine U20 continues EU preparation - by Eurobasket News

Ukraine U20 continues EU preparation in Druskininkai for the upcoming European Championship. The team won 4 games and lost the same number of games.
After the clashes with Belarus and Germany that we wrote earlier, Ukraine beat Israel 71:62. Later Lithuanian team beat Ukraine U20 twice. In the first game Lithuanian easily rolled over the opponent 82:54 but then needed a strong finish to seal a 75:74 win.
Ukraine U20 will play in Division A at the U20 European Championship in Hungary. The team will compete in Group C together with Portugal, France and Turkey. Portugal U20 recently participated at Caorle tournament with Italy and Great Britain. Portugal finished second with one victory and one loss. France U20 meanwhile won Torneo de Noia with 4 participating teams. The French side overcame Spain U20 55:50 in the Final game to win all three games.


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  WNBA   


Lauren Jackson breaks Olympics scoring mark - by Eurobasket News

Storm All-Star Lauren Jackson (6'5''-F/C-81) set the all-time Olympic scoring record in women's basketball Tuesday in a 75-60 win over China.

Jackson scored 12 to give her 536 points in four consecutive Games. The total surpassed Brazilian Janeth Arcain's 535 points, set from 1992-2004. American Lisa Leslie had 499 (1996-2008).

"I am happy, obviously, it's something that's nice, but I hope we win Thursday," Jackson said.

The Aussies play the United States in Thursday's semifinals. The U.S. advanced to the semifinals with a 75-60 win over Canada. Storm point guard Sue Bird had two points and five assists.

Jackson, a three-time WNBA MVP, missed the opening portion of the Storm's season to prepare with her Australian team. If the Aussies don't defeat the four-time defending world champions Thursday, the best Jackson can claim is bronze.

Courtesy of http://seattletimes.nwsource.com


Mystics using Olympic break to regroup - by Eurobasket News

Michelle Snow (6'5''-C-80, agency: LBM Management, college: Tennessee) stood alone at the far end of the Mystics practice court. It was an hour before practice was scheduled to start, and the Mystics new 6-foot-5 center was busy working on her shot.

At 32, Snow has played for five WNBA teams, is a two-time All-Star, and was a member of the USA Basketball squad during her college days at Tennessee. Shes been to the playoffs six of her 10 seasons in the league and isnt used to losing.

Were taking this time to get to know each other, work on our team chemistry and maintaining our conditioning, Snow said.

The Mystics 4-14 start hasnt been easy on Snow or anyone else on the team, but shes hoping the Olympic break has given the team exactly what they need time to make a fresh start and get to know each other.

Toward that end, the Mystics have engaged in a few off-the-court team-building activities, including a trip to the Washington waterfront and cutting practice short one afternoon to enjoy a rare indulgence together ice cream.

It helps once you get to know people, Snow said. You get to know what they went through to get where they are, and you respect them more. You want to fight for them, and you want them to fight for you.

The Mystics will resume their season with back-to-back games Aug. 16 and 17 in Indiana and Minnesota and will play their next home game Aug. 19 against Chicago.

We did a lot of stuff without the basketball for a good week, said second-year point guard Jasmine Thomas. We were just running, working on our footwork, our speed and agility all stuff that we can put into our game once we get back on the court.

The Mystics final game before the break was a win over the New York Liberty, which Thomas said gave the team some much-needed momentum.

We have some time before we have to get ready for an opponent, so we get to work on things we need to get better at, Thomas said.

Some obvious areas of improvement would include shooting, turnovers and defending the 3-point line. The Mystics rank last in scoring, (69.9 points), have the third-worst turnover percentage (16.9) behind Atlanta and Chicago, and shoot 30 percent from 3-point range while giving up 36 percent.

Coach Trudi Lacey called the hiatus a second training camp for the team.

Weve spent a lot of time working on fundamentals, getting to know each other as a team, Lacey said. Were in a rebuilding process, and its not going to happen overnight. This team, once we added Shannon Bobbitt, has only been together about four weeks.

In a nutshell, Lacey described the team as consistently inconsistent.

Hopefully, what weve done during the break will pay off on the court, and well be a more cohesive unit, Lacey said. The New York game was an indication that were moving in the right direction.

Courtesy of www.washingtontimes.com