EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 9/11/2012 1:04:01 AM

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Men News

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  AFRICAN CHAMPIONS CUP   



ACCMW Qualifier: Pillars overpower ABC in last day match-up - by Olusegun Ikuesan

Nigeria Kano Pillars basketball club Sunday proved to be a hard nut as it defeated Abidjan Basketball Club by 66-40 points in a reverse fixture of the Africa Champions Cup for Men Zone-3 elimination in Monrovia, Liberia.

With Sunday results Pillars thus lead qualified clubs from the zone to the final round of the continent biggest club competition while the Ivorian side picked the second ticket.

In the women qualifier, Abidjan Basket Club (ABC) top the five-team women qualifying round with 8 points after winning all it four games while Nigeria First Deepwater basketball club placed second with three win and one lose with Nigeria other women representative finishing third on the log.

ABC and First Deepwater thus qualify to represent the zone in the final round of the women competition coming up in Cote dIvoire next month.

DAY-6 RESULTS
ABC 40 66 KANO PILLARS
UHURU KINGS 72 73 LPRC OILERS


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  ARGENTINA   


2012-13 Season preview, part 2 - by Leonardo Contieri

After finishing fourth last regular season, Lanus chose to change most of its roster, only coach Silvio Santander, point guard Nicolas Laprovittola and forward Adrian Boccia remain from last season. The team hired William McFarlan and Robert Battle as their foreigners, two players with plenty of Argentinean league experience. They also added shooter Leonel Schattman and Guard Lucas Perez. After spending almost his entire career abroad Patricio Prato will return to play in Argentina this season.
Weber Bahia Blanca Estudiantes suffered the retirement of shooter Juan Espil and they changed most of their roster. Only Juan Ignacio Sanchez and Lucas Faggiano remain from last season. Coach Pablo Coleffi returns to Argentina after several years in Europe. The team added guard Juan Manuel Rivero, forward Federico Ferrini and centers Victor Balso (also returning after several seasons in Spain) and Juan Manuel Torres. Richard Roby and Jonathan Durley will be the foreign players.
Quimsa changed coaches as Fabio Demti returns to the club replacing Carlos Romano. The kept half of last seasons roster, as Jonatan Treise, Sebastian Vega, Diego Logrippo and Damian Tintorelli. They added point guard Juan Pablo Cantero, scoring guard Eduardo Villares and Ramzee Stanton and James Willaims as their import players.
Gimnasia y Esgrima Comodoro Rivadavia will be coached again by Marcelo Richotti. Diego Ciorciari, Santiago Scala, Diego Romero and Roberto Gabini will continue on the team, although Gabini is injured and will be replaced by Federico Vay. The team also got hold of Mariano Byro and Alejandro Reinick. The foreigners will be David Jackson and Kaheim Seawright


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  AUSTRALIA   


36ers sign import CJ Massingale - by Hugh McAuliffe

The Adelaide 36ers have announced the signing of CJ Massingale (191-G-82, agency: Prossin Sports Management, college: Metro St.) for the 2012/13 iiNet NBL season.

Coming off a great season with SEABL team Knox Raiders, CJ averaged 25 points at 45.3%, averaged 5.9 rebounds, 3.6 assists per game and won three player of the week awards throughout this past SEABL season.

Adelaide 36ers Head Coach, Marty Clarke said that the Club was looking for a quality mature combo guard.

"CJ constantly caught our eye over the past couple of years and we thought he would be a great fit in to our program this season."

"He has shown that he has the drive and motivation to maintain his performance and we are happy to give him a chance at NBL level."

"We have now signed most of our team and we are ready to show our supporters what the team can achieve this season."

CJ Massingale said that he is excited to play at NBL level after seven years in Australia.

"I look forward to coming to Adelaide and showing the members and fans what I can bring to the game."

CJ Massingale is the ninth player to be signed by the Adelaide 36ers, with one place left on the roster.


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  BELGIUM   


Division II - First Round - by Bert Larsimont

Essor Charleroi vs. Kangoeroes Boom 64-94
This game was played on Sunday morning at 11:00. Thanks to an excellent start in this game and despite having several players quickly in foul trouble, the Kangoeroes, esp. Witse Van Schil (188-G-83), Sebastien Bellin (205-C-78, agency: Prossin Sports Management, college: Oakland) and Dieter Souveryns (193-F/G-83), were able to control the game all the way until the final buzzer.
Score evolution: 15-25, 37-45, 53-66 and 66-94.
Best scorers:
Essor Charleroi: N/A
Kangoeroes Boom: S. Bellin 21, M. Gorremans 13, D. Souveryns 18, W. Dobbelaere 11, W. Van Schil 15, D. D'Haens 14, Mikulec 2.

Gembo BBC vs. St-Niklase Condors 83-88
The first quarter was the only one that the host team of Coach Stefan Sappenberghs won last weekend (27-19). Thanks to the presence of Sebastien Vermeulen (207-F/C-81) at the rebound and the efficiency of Elias Lasisi (192-G/F-92) in offense, the Condors reacted well and even grabbed the win by hitting important free-throws in the last minutes. To be noted: a controversial technical foul was called against Gembo's coach at a crucial moment in the game.
Score evolution: 45-46 (half time) and 83-88.

Port of Antwerp Giants II vs. Sint-Jan Antwerp 82-99
A first Antwerp derby which ended with a win for the visitors of Head Coach Steve Cornelis . The roster of Port of Antwerp Giants II coached by Luc Smout includes only Belgian players born from 1990 to 1993.

BBC Haantjes Oudenaarde vs. Excelsior Brussels 70-77
One good news for Excelsior Brussels before the game: Stephane Pelle (205-C/F-80, college: Colorado) signed a contract with the Belgian capital's club. Pelle played for the University of Colorado in the NCAA from 1999 to 2003. After having gone through the Los Angeles Lakers' Summer Camp and preseason in 2003, he came to Europe to play for Tekelspor Istanbul (Turkey) in 2003-2004, ASVEL (French Pro A) in 2004-2005, Liege Basket from 2005 to 2008, Okapi Aalstar in 2008-2009 and Base Oostende from 2009 to 2011. Division II newcomers of BBC Haantjes Oudenaarde had a hard time in the first half of the game. Led by a fantastic Sam Semijejero (196-F/C-77) (15 points, 15 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 steals), Excelsior had a rather easy and impressive first win away. The host team of Alain Defraigne (190-G-68) came back into the game in the last quarter but eventually finished seven points behind: 70-77.
Score evolution: 14-21, 29-47, 49-65 and 70-77.
Best scorers:
BBC Oudenaarde: N/A
Excelsior Brussels: E. Mampuya 9, X. Collette 5, N. Verrept 6, M. Depuydt 11, J. Van Havermaet 6, G. De Pooter 9, J. De Schepper 8, S. Pelle 8, S. Semijejero 15.

Gent Dragons vs. Bent Schoenen Waregem 73-79
Despite having outrebounded their guests 39-34, the Dragons of Coach Kris De Pauw were not able to stay in front in the last minutes of the game. This game was a close one but the visitors led by Arne Steinbach (182-PG-92), Ahmet Gueye (203-C/F-82, college: Hawaii) and the two Foucart brothers (Thomas and Olivier) made the difference in the last minutes of this game. The Dragons with Thomas Van De Vondel (197-F/G-80) and Brian Heinle (207-C-78, agency: Court Side, college: CS Northridge) were in front at 69-67 but could not keep their lead as Arne Steinbach from the free-throw line and big men Bart Samaey (199-C-87) and Ahmet Gueye in the paint remained efficient for BS Waregem. Gent had a poor 18/52 from 2pt range in this game. Also to be noted: the Dragons' web site announces that Kristof Ongenaet (203-F-85, college: Syracuse) could miss a big part of the season due to a serious back injury.
Score evolution: 19-24, 39-40, 53-58 and 73-79.
Best scorers:
Gent Dragons: B. Heinle 13, R. Spaens 13, L. Tielens 14, Van Herzele 2, T. Van De Vondel 24, Claeys 3, C. Tshimuanga 4.
Basket Waregem: A. Steinbach 17, B. Samaey 10, H. Loontiens 2, S. Naudts 9, O. Foucart 7, T. Foucart 12, A. Gueye 22.

Belfius Mons Hainaut II vs. Point Chaud Sprimont 78-103
In a 100% Belgian match-up played on Friday evening, the visitors from the Liege Province gave no chance to their young opponents of Belfius Mons Hainaut II.

BasKet Tongeren vs. Cuva Houthalen (to be played on Sep. 15th, 2012)

Bye: CEP Fleurus



Latest news on Antwerp Giants, Leuven Bears and Spirou Charleroi - by Eurobasket News

Port of Antwerp Giants beat Weert 96:55. Port of Antwerp Giants started with 20-14 and added 27-15 in the second period. Moreover they won the third quarter 23-12 and finished the game with 26-14 in the last stanza. Gregg Thondique (201-F-87, agency: FCM, college: Virginia Union) stepped up with 25 points and Reed nailed 17.
Den Bosch outscored Leuven Bears 82:76. The latter got 23 points from Robinson and Burdgess notched 17.
Brose Baskets triumphs at Sharp Cup. The German side overcame Spirou Charleroi 91:73 to seal the trophy. Gipson stepped up with 25 points for the winners and Nachbar notched 24. Philipp Neumann (209-C-92) delivered 18, while Beckham Wyrick (198-F-83, agency: Pro One Sports, college: NC-Wilmington) brought 9. Hamilton replied with 15 points in the losing effort and Glen Dandridge (198-F-85, college: Lambuth) scored 14.


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  CANADA   


Rainmen re-sign All-Star Joey Haywood - by Eurobasket News

Rainmen re-sign All-Star Joey Haywood.


Halifax Rainmen Re-sign Joey Haywood - by Greg

Halifax Rainmen (NBL Canada) re-signed 28-year old guard Joey Haywood (185-77kg-84). He has played there for the last season. In 43 NBL Canada games he recorded 12.6ppg, 2.5rpg, 2.4apg and 1.3spg. Haywood played in the final of NBL Canada in 2012. He also attended NBL Canada All Star Game last season and was voted to the USBasket.com NBL Canada All-Defensive 2nd Team.

By Eurobasket Data Center (from @nblcanada)


Joey Haywood is a newcomer at Halifax Rainmen - by Greg

Halifax Rainmen (NBL Canada) re-signed 28-year old guard Joey Haywood (185-77kg-84). He has played there for the last one seasons. In 43 NBL Canada games he recorded 12.6ppg, 2.5rpg, 2.4apg and 1.3spg. Haywood played in the final of NBL Canada in 2012.
He is a very experienced player.

By Eurobasket Data Center (from @nblcanada)


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  CHILE   


Liga Sudamericana 2012: Deportes Castro will represent Chile - by Daniel Valencia

Deportes Castro, the champion of Liga Nacional, will play the upcoming edition of Liga Sudamericana.

The chilean champion will be part of Group C and is going to play in Mar del Plata at the end of October, against the argentinian champion, Penarol Mar del Plata, Clube de Regatas do Flamengo from Brasil and Hebraica Macabi from Uruguay. This tournament will be an opportunity to face two of the strongest teams in SouthAmerica.

Deportes Castro is preparing the start of a new season of Liga Nacional, trying to repeat the last season trophy.


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  COLOMBIA   

Standings

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

Elimination Round: Round 1

Sep. 8: Arrieros - Bayside 98-72
Sep. 8: Hormigueros - Once Caldas 83-87
Sep. 8: Guerreros - Choco 81-61
Sep. 7: Once Caldas - Hormigueros 78-69
Sep. 7: Guerreros - Choco 77-68
Sep. 8: Patriotas - Bucaros 66-77
Sep. 7: Arrieros - Bayside 108-101
Sep. 7: Bucaros - Patriotas 101-50

Elimination Round: Round 2

Sep. 10: Hormigueros - Arrieros
Sep. 10: Guerreros - Bayside
Sep. 10: Once Caldas - Choco
Sep. 10: Cafeteros - Bucaros
Sep. 10: Islanders - InderValle
Sep. 11: Hormigueros - Arrieros
Sep. 11: Guerreros - Bayside
Sep. 11: Once Caldas - Choco
Sep. 11: Cafeteros - Bucaros
Sep. 11: Islanders - InderValle



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  CROATIA   


Zadar players could call another strike - by Dajana Karl

Consequences of KK Zadar's strike were visible during their friendly game played in Slovenia against Helios Domzale.

"We have work even harder now, because otherwise it will not be good." were the words of KK Zadar's sporting director, Branko Skroce.

But seems like the players could be announcing yet another strike on Wednesday if they don't get another salary.

"There will be no payments unless storks bring something. We tried to explain to the players what is going on. The situation is delicate, especially now that the conversion is in progress. I'm hoping there will be no strike, because then the damage, at least I think, would be difficult to recover and the season is about to begin." - Skroce said.

KK Zadar lost last two out of three friendly games.

Coach Nazor particularly emphasized Gary Ervin (183-G-83, college: Arkansas), whose game he's not so happy with. He's expected to be the bearer of KK Zadar's game with Romeo Travis (200-PF-84, college: Akron).

Skroce commented: "Ervin certainly did not forget to play, so we need a bit of patience with him, I believe that we will be able to get from him what we expect, as well as from Travis."

Another friendly game is expected to be in KK Zadar on Friday against OKK Sloboda Tulza. Also there is a chance of friendly game against Jolly Jadranska Banka Sibenik some time during this week.


Dubrovnik signs Filip Vukicevic, brings in Dino Jakolis for tryout - by Eurobasket News

Filip Vukicevic (203-F-88) will play next season for Dubrovnik. The Croatian squad also brought in Dino Jakolis (200-F/G-91) for tryout. He will try to impress new Head Coach Ivan Vujcic and to earn a deal for 2012/13.
Filip Vukicevic arrives to the club from A2 team GKK Sibenik. He averaged 9.5 points for 15 games last season. The forward played for Svjetlost Slavonski Brod from 2009 to 2011 and before that he spent few years with Sibenka Sibenik. In 2010/11 season with Svjetlost Vukicevic averaged 7.2 points and 5.7 rebounds for 25 games in A1. He also added 7.5 ppg and 7.6 rpg for 8 Balkan league appearances. In the past, Vukicevic played for Croatian youth National Teams.
Dino Jakolis spent last two years in the US (High school and Valparaiso University). In Croatia, he played for Split. Jakolis successfully played for U16 and U18 Croatian National Teams in 2007 and 2009.


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  DENMARK   


Vaerlose loses All Star - by Thomas Soltau

Mads Rasmussen (191-F-86) was one of the leaders for a young Vaerlose BBK team last season, but this year the combo guard will not suit up.

The player has decided to "call it quits" for now, as he finishes his studies. Rasmussen averaged 14PPG and 2,7RPG in 31MPG.

The team will miss his production, but this should prove to be a chance for some of the young talents the club has to blossom.

It will be interesting to what head coach Thomas Silfen can get out of his team this season.


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  EUROCUP   


Crvena Zvezda target Demarcus Nelson - by Eurobasket News

Crvena Zvezda are seeking to bolster their roster. Various reports indicate that the team is in talks with DeMarcus Nelson (191-G-85, college: Duke). The guard started the previous season in Ukraine. DeMarcus Nelson posted 10.6 points, 4.4 boards, 2.5 assists and 1.6 steals per game in Superleague for BC Donetsk. He left for France in November. DeMarcus Nelson signed with Cholet Basket. The guard averaged 13.7 points, 3.8 rebounds, 3.6 assists and 1.3 steals per game in ProA. He earned All-French ProA Honourable Mention. Previously DeMarcus Nelson had stints in France, Italy, Croatia and D-League. He was French SuperCup winner and ProA finalist in 2011.


Crvena Zvezda inks 1-year deal with DeMarcus Nelson - by Eurobasket News

DeMarcus Nelson (6'3''-G-85, college: Duke) signed a 1-year deal with Crvena Zvezda. The American combo guard finished last season with French Cholet averaging 13.7 points, 3.8 rebounds and 3.6 assists for 30 games in ProA. He started the season with Ukrainian Donetsk. There Nelson registered 10.6 ppg, 4.4 rpg and 2.5 apg for 12 games in domestic championship. DeMarcus Nelson played for Cholet also in 2010/11. He had 9.2 ppg and 3.3 rpg for 10 Euroleague games that season. The team was French SuperCup winner. In 2009/10 the player averaged 8.9 points and 3.7 rebounds for 30 SerieA games with Italian Air Avelino. He also has experience from the NBA, D-Leaue and Zagreb. With Austin Toros De Marcus Nelson was the fifth scorer of D-League with 23 ppg for 11 games in 2008/09. That season he also appeared 13 times with the NBA team Golden State Warriots collecting 4.1 ppg and 1.8 rpg. DeMarcus Nelson graduated four years ago at Duke University and was team captain. He had 14.5 ppg, 5.8 rpg and 2.9 apg in 34 games as a senior.


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  FINLAND   


KORISLIIGA: Jason Conley returning - by Rauno Hurmalainen

Take Jason Conley (196-G-81, agency: Warren Sports International, college: Missouri) on the roster and win a medal! YMCA Lappeenranta Head Coach Lassi Tuovi believes this American sharpshooter can lead Tuovi's Team into success coming 2012-13 season. Conley led YMCA Lahti into Finnish Championship 2008-09 and Kataja (Joensuu) to the finals 2010-11 silver as the result. Conley has played professionally also in Germany (2005-08) and in Austria (2009-10). YMCA LPR has signed earlier with American G Matthew Gibson (196-G-84). Coach Tuovi still needs an American BIG man.
In Division 1 A Tarmo (Porvoo) has signed a 1-year-contract with C-PF Teemu Rintala (203-F/C-88). Rintala has played earlier six seasons on top level in Finland on the rosters of Honka (Espoo), Korihait (Uusikaupunki), Team Componenta (Karkkila) and Kouvot (Kouvola). Last season Rintala averaged 3,2 ppg - 3,2 rpg in 40 games on Kouvot roster.


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  FRANCE   


Dozier is back at Miami Heat - by Eurobasket

Miami Heat (NBA) agreed terms with 27-year old forward Robert Dozier (206-102kg-85, college: Memphis). Its actually his comeback to Miami as he played here before. He joined Heat pre-season squad together with Harris. Dozier played last season at Cholet Basket in French ProA. In 22 ProA games he recorded 9.5ppg, 5.4rpg and 1.1apg. He helped them to make it to the cup semifinals.
He played also professionally in Greece. Dozier graduated University of Memphis in 2009 and it will be his fourth season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center


Nanterre keep Saidou Njoya - by Eurobasket News

Nanterre finalized the deal with Saidou Njoya (186-PG-89). The guard joined Nanterre this summer for a try-out period. His performance proved his value for the team and Nanterre finalize the deal with the player. Saidou Njoya posted 7.5 points, 6.5 boards and 2.0 assists per game for Nanterre in pre-season action so far. Saidou Njoya spent the previous season with Boulazac. He tallied 8.0 points, 3.7 assists and 2.5 rebounds per game in ProB. Previously Saidou Njoya played for Nancy and Norrkoping Dolphins. He was ProA champion in 2011.


Rich Melzer joins Le Portel - by Eurobasket News

Le Portel bolstered their roster. They added Rich Melzer (203-F/C-79, agency: Court Side, college: Wisc.-RiverFal.) to the squad. The centre spent the last season in Germany. Rich Melzer played for New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig. The centre notched 11.5 points, 4.3 rebounds and 1.0 assist per game in 1.Bundesliga. Previously Rich Melzer had stints in Israel, D-League, Australia, Germany, CBA, New Zealand. He is also not new to France. The centre played for ASVEL back in 2006/07 season. Rich Melzer posted 11.8 points, 3.5 rebounds per game then. The centre participated at Israeli Premier League All-Star Game in 2011. He was CBA champion in 2005 and D-League title holder in 2006 and 2010.


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  FYR MACEDONIA   


Partizan outplays MZT Skopje in preseason game - by Eurobasket News

Partizan - MZT Skopje 81-69

Partizan and MZT Skopje played a friendly game on Sunday. Partizan was the host of this meeting and celebrated 81-69 victory. Rookie Drew Gordon (205-F-90, college: N.Mexico) top-scored for the Serbian powerhouse with 16 points and Djordje Gagic (210-C-90, agency: Interperformances) added 14 pts to this victory. Torey Thomas (180-PG-85, college: Holy Cross) delivered 11 points in his debut and Branislav Djekic (207-F/C-91, agency: Beo Basket) was the last one in double digits with 10 pts. In defeat, Uros Nikolic (207-F/C-87) shined with 26 points and he is expected to be one of the key players in MZT Skopje this season. Visitors didn't have anyone else with double digits as Cade Davis (197-F/G-88, college: Oklahoma), Igor Mijajlovic (192-PG-84, agency: Global Sports Plaza) and Damjan Stojanovski (195-SG-87) stopped to 7 pts each. Third quarter was the crucial one in this game. Teams were tied at 39-39 at the halftime, after what Drew Gordon and his teammates made 24-16 for the next ten minutes. MZT was not able to reply and Partizan made 18-14 in Q4 for comfortable victory in this meeting. MZT Skopje will play in Adriatic league next season.

Partizan: Uros Nikolic 26, Cade Davis 7, Igor Mijajlovic 7, Damjan Stojanovski 7
MZT Skopje: Drew Gordon 16, Djordje Gagic 14, Torey Thomas 11, Branislav Djekic 10


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  GERMANY   


Artland Dragons, Phoenix Hagen and TBB Trier won the latest games - by Eurobasket News

Artland Dragons overcame New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig 75:67. The Dragons started with 18-17 and added 19-11 in the second period. Moreover they erupted with 27-14 in the third stanza and did not mind 11-25 in the last period. Popovic stepped up with 22 points and Sergio Kerusch (195-F-89, college: W.Kentucky) notched 15. Taylor scored 14, while Haynes added 8. Harding and Robert Kulawick (191-G-86, agency: Pro One Sports) ended up with 15 points each, while Schroder had 14.
Phoenix Hagen won over ETB Wohnbau Baskets Essen 90:80. Both teams scored 42 points each in the first half, while Hagen grabbed the win due to the second half. David Bell (186-G-81) paced all the winners with 25 points and White scored 24. Abe Lodwick (200-G/F-88, college: Washington St.) and Gordon followed them with 13 each, whilst Gregory had 7.
TBB Trier edged MLP Academics Heidelberg (Pro A) 66:58. Jarrett Howell (180-PG-84, college: Texas Arlington) top-scored for the winners with 14 points and Nate Linhart posted 13.


Dane Watts (ratiopharm Ulm) Consistency Is Something That I Want To Continue To Bring - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Dane Watts (203-F-86, agency: Pro One Sports) is a 26 year old 203cm forward from Warrensburg, Missouri. He will be playing his season season for ratiopharm Ulm. Last season for ratiopharm Ulm, he played 38 games averaging 9.6ppg, 6.7rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 52.9%, 3PT: 24.6%, FT: 58.1%He played at Creighton (NCAA) from 2004-2008 with NBA player Anthony Tolliver. In his senior year, he played 33 games: 11.3ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 53.4%, 3Pts: 42.5%, FT: 71.8%. In 2008, he came to Germany and started his professional basketball career with EnBW Ludwigsburg (Germany-1.Bundesliga, starting five): 32 games: 8.9ppg, 3.8rpg, FGP-1 (68.4%), 3PT: 30.8%, FT: 68.7%. In 2009-2010, he came to The Walter Tigers Tuebingen playing 34 games: 10.2ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 37.6%, FT: 71.0%. In 2010-2011 for Tuebingen, he played 33 games: 13.7ppg, Reb-4 (7.6rpg), 1.1apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 57.9%, 3PT: 36.7%, FT: 54.5%; in May'11 moved to Hyeres-Toulon Var Basket (France-ProA): 3 games: 7.0ppg, 6.3rpg, 1.7apg, 1.0spg. At Creighton, he won awards such as MVC Tournament Winner -05, 07, MVC All-Freshman Team -05, MVC Regular Season Runner-Up -07, and MVC Tournament Semifinals -08. He spoke to eurobasket about his summer and future of ratiopharm Ulm

ratiopharm Ulm had a very long season carrying through until mid June. With your old Beko BBL teams, you had had been back in the States by May. How fast did the summer go and how quickly will your son have a basketball in his hands? lol

This summer has flown bye. It is a tough trade-off for the family waiting in the states, the more successful my team is, the less time we get to spend with them. Ezekiel already has a ball, trying to get him to palm it with his left already.

You will be starting your fifth professional season with ratiopharm Ulm. As you slowly get older does anything change in your off season workout plan in comparison to when you were a rookie?

I continue to work on multiple areas of my game and conditioning. Getting older is not an issue for me right now as much as managing my time to raise my son and continue to put the work in the summers to get better. Daddy daycare was open from 9-1 this summer while my wife finishes up her schooling.

When you look at the Beko BBL offseason transactions, how satisfyed are you with the new players that have arrived in the league? What players are you looking forward to playing against?

I feel like the league continues to get stronger, the clubs are professional and the games are a high level product for the fans, I am happy to be a part for another season. Im looking forward to seeing Bonn's new guys, Kyle Weems played in the MVC and Pat Ewing Jr. is a part of Active Faith sports brand I am involved in.

After the incredible last season in Ulm, how difficult will this season be for the team? The Beko BBL is always getting more competitive and teams will be gunning for ratiopharm Ulm.

I am glad that we were able to bring back the majority of our team and keep some continuity from last season. We know that we are not going to surprise any teams this season, they will be ready for us.

The team kept a majority of the team and added some important components to the team. What is the season goal for the team?

We will establish the season's goals when we meet next week with all the players. I know that we will add new goals for the European competition. With all the success we had last year, I know that no one on that team was satisfied we got the silver medal.

The team has gotten German national player Philipp Schwethelm on loan from Bayern Munich. What do you like most about his game?

He did not have much of a role with Bayern last year but we have seen him be an impact player in this league previous years. I think that he will be a big help for our team with his shooting, passing and basketball IQ.

How excited are you to be playing with Allan Roy? You will be playing with an ex Boston Celtic. What will be his best quality?

I remember him playing at Villanova when I was in school. He was a great scorer and player for them. Im sure that he will fit in with our team and bring a lot of high level experience.

Each player on ratiopharm Ulm had their special role last season. There were no egos mostly and everyone did their job. You were consistent. Would you like anything to change in your role this season?

That was a big key to our success, everyone putting winning first. That is something that the new additions must commit to as well for us to continue building on last year. I want to continue to help our team win, whatever that means I can do. Consistency is something that I want to continue to bring, knowing the team can rely on me every game.

The Brose Baskets Bamberg have lost key parts to their winning team while Bayern Munich really has stocked up for this season. Could FC Bayern Munich win it all this season?

I think that there are numerous teams solid on paper, it is a long season and lots can happen. I like the team ULM put together though.

Since playing in the Beko BBL, have you ever seen a better front court than Jared Homan, Chevon Troutman, Lawrence Roberts and Jan Jagla? How much are you looking forward to these challenges?

That was big for them to bring back Troutman and Homan, they were big parts of their attack last year. Having Roberts as well just adds to the strength of their front court. It will be a fun game with Bryant, Nankivil, Theis and myself battling those guys.

Who would beat whom in their prime? The Dream team or team USA 2012?

That is the question that everyone wants to know but no one ever will. People say that this team wasn't as good because they didn't blow everyone out like the 92 team did. The game is so much different now, that 92 team inspired the world to play basketball and they got better. The best player the 92 team played against was a young Toni Kukoc? These guys are playing teams with 5-6 NBA players on them, All Stars, NBA champions. Im like both teams, 92 team has size advantage with Dwight and Bosh not playing this year.

What was your favorite Olympic moment?

Men's Basketball taking the gold. I was completely amazed with gymnastics, those people are crazy athletic.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Hear no evil, see no evil. 80s movie with Richard Pryor, recommended by my good friend Jay Thomas.

Thanks Dane for the chat.




Darryl Jackson Joins The Neckar Riesen Ludwigsburg - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Take away the Darryl and you get the name Joshua Jackson, but the Neckar Riesen Ludwigsburg havent gotten the former Dawson Creek star, but rather Darryl Jackson (189-SG-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Warner Pacific) to help complement the guard position. Jackson is a 26 year old 189cm shooting guard from Beaverton, Oregon that has the name Joshua as a middle name. The Beko BBL team is getting a player that has numerous European experience especially having played many years in Romania. He has played in four countries and last season played for InterCollege Etha Engomis (Cyprus-Division A): Greek League: 13 games: 10.0ppg; EuroCup Qualifications: 2 games: 6.0ppg, 1.5apg; EuroChallenge: 5 games: 11.4ppg, 3.0rpg, 1.2spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 76.5%, in May'12 joined Sokhumi Tbilisi (Georgia-Superleague, starting five): 5 games: 13.2ppg, 2.6rpg, 3.4apg, FGP: 59.3%, 3PT: 34.8%, FT: 83.3%. He started his basketball career with Warner Pacific (NAIA). In 2008, he started his professional basketball career with the Vancouver Volcanoes (IBL). He then went to Europe to play for CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu (Romania-Div.A, starting five): 30 games: 11.0ppg, 2.3rpg, 2.1apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 51.6%, 3PT: 32.9%, FT: 80.8%. In 2009-2010, he continued to stay in Romania and have solid stats playing for BCMUS Arges Pitesti (Romania-Div.A, starting five): 33 games: 16.8ppg, 3.5rpg, 3.1apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 54.1%, 3PT: 40.8%, FT: 82.5%. In 2010-2011, he joined top Romanian team BC Steaua Turabo Bucuresti (Romania-Div.A, starting five): EuroChallenge: 8 games: 7.1ppg, 1.6rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 37.5%, 3PT: 43.3%, FT: 54.5%; Romanian League: 37 games: 12.6ppg, 2.5rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 58.7%, 3PT: 39.8%, FT: 85.2%. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been Romanian Cup Semifinals -09Romanian League All-Star Game -10, Maltese National Team -10, 12, European Championships Div.C in Malta -10, Romanian Cup Finalist -11, Romanian League Semifinals -11, Cyprus Super Cup Winner -12, Cyprus League Champion -12, Eurobasket.com Georgian League All-Bosmans Team -12, and Georgian League Semifinals -12.

Source Neckar Riesen Ludwigsburg


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  GHANA   


Ampims pro career starts at Antranik - by Greg

Antranik Beirut strengthened their roster with addition of Ghanian forward Asenso Ampim (198-109kg). He has just graduated from Columbia (NCAA). In 28 games last season he averaged 8.9ppg and 6.8apg.

By Eurobasket Data Center


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  GREECE   


Kolossos add Dollard to their roster - by Greg

VAP Kolossos Rodou (A1) agreed terms with 26-year old American forward Joshua Dollard (203-86, college: USC Aiken). He played last season at Darussafaka in Turkish TB2L. In 17 TB2L games he recorded 12.4ppg, 5.1rpg and 1.2apg. Dollard played also at Usti n/Labem in Czech Republic NBL that season. In 7 NBL games he recorded 14.6ppg, 4.6rpg and 1.1spg. Dollard was selected to .
He is a very experienced player. Dollard played also professionally in Canada, Dominican Rep. and Switzerland. He graduated from Univ.of S.Carolina - Aiken in 2009 and it will be his fourth season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center


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  ISRAEL   


Marcus Moore agreed terms with Elizur Ashkelon - by Eurobasket

Elizur Ashkelon (Winner League) added to their roster 32-year old American guard Marcus Moore (198-104kg-80, college: Washington State, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group). He played most recently at Keravnos in Cypriot Division A. In 5 EuroChallenge games he recorded 14.4ppg, 5.2rpg, 6.0apg and 2.6spg. Moores team won Cyprus Cup. He received also Eurobasket.com All-Cyprus League Small Forward of the Year award.
Moore is a very experienced player. He played also professionally in Australia, Belgium, Hungary and Mexico. Moore graduated Washington State in 2004 and it will be his ninth season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center


Ironi Ramat Gan signs Tyrone Kent - by Greg

Ironi Kfar Hamaccabia Ramat Gan (National League) signed 26-year old American swingman Tyrone Kent (196-95kg-86, college: Toledo). He played most recently at Canton Charge (D-League) in the U.S. While playing 7 games his stats were 5.0ppg, 2.3rpg and 1.7apg.
He played also professionally in Cyprus and France. Kent is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league on the market. He graduated from The University of Toledo in 2009 and it will be his fourth season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center


Hapoel Holon signs D.J. Strawberry - by Eurobasket News

Hapoel Holon (Winner League) signed 27-year old American guard D.J. Strawberry (196-85, college: Maryland). He played last season at Hapoel Migdal Jerusalem (Winner League). In 5 Eurocup games he had 14.0ppg, 1.8rpg, 1.8apg and 1.4spg. Strawberry played also 29 games in Winner League where he had 15.6ppg, 3.9rpg, 2.2apg and 1.6spg. A very impressive season as he earned Eurobasket.com All- League Honorable Mention in in 2012.
Strawberry played also professionally in Italy and Lithuania. He graduated from University of Maryland in 2007 and it will be his sixth season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center (from @SportandoBasket)


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  ITALY   


Cheeks pro career could start at Aget Imola - by Eurobasket News

Aget Service Imola (Lega2) is about to sign 21-year old USA guard Dominic Cheek (198-91). He just graduated Villanova (NCAA). In 32 games last season he averaged 12.5ppg, 3.9rpg, 1.3apg and 1.0spg. Cheeks team was regular season runner-up in Big East in 2010. He represented USA at the FIBA Americas U18 Championships in Formosa (Argentina) this year. Cheeks stats at this event were 5 games: 5.2ppg, 2.4rpg, FGP-3 (70.0%), 3PT: 17.6%, FT: 50.0%. He was also a member of USA U19 national team in 2009. So his pro career will start in Italy.

By Eurobasket Data Center


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  LEBANON   


Ampims pro career starts at Antranik - by Greg

Antranik Beirut strengthened their roster with addition of Ghanian forward Asenso Ampim (198-109kg). He has just graduated from Columbia (NCAA). In 28 games last season he averaged 8.9ppg and 6.8apg.

By Eurobasket Data Center


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  LITHUANIA   


Lietuvos Rytas topple Budivelnyk at Garastas Cup - by Eurobasket News

Lietuvos Rytas - Budivelnyk 82:68

Lietuvos Rytas celebrated yet another win at the Garastas Cup. They knocked down Ukrainian Budivelnyk. Renaldas Seibutis (198-SG-85) scored 16 points to lead the Vilnius team. Budivelnyk suffered the third loss in a row.
Lietuvos Rytas jumped to a narrow 19:17 lead after ten minutes. The Lithuanian team stretched the lead in the second frame. They accounted for a 12-point halftime advantage 48:36. Lietuvos Rytas kept Budivelnyk at bay throughout the third qauarter. They entered the fourth stanza up by 14 points. The teams traded baskets throughout the final period as Lietuvos Rytas cruised to the victory. Dejan Ivanov (205-F/C-86, agency: Beo Basket) accounted for 12 points, while Janis Blums (191-SG-82) added 10 points for the winners. Malcolm Delaney (191-G-89, college: Virginia Tech) responded with 24 points for Budivelnyk. Leo Lyons (206-F-87, college: Missouri) had 22 points and 12 rebounds in the loss.

Lietuvos Rytas: Renaldas Seibutis 16, Dejan Ivanov 12, Janis Blums 10
Budivelnyk: Malcolm Delaney 24, Leo Lyons 22+12 boards


Simas Buterlevicius to miss a month due to knee injury - by Eurobasket News

Simas Buterlevicius (200-F-89) of Lietuvos Ryats will be sidelined for one month due to injury. According to lrytas.lt (via Lithuaniabasketball.com), the player strained his ACL and damaged the cartilage in his knee. He got injured during the preseason game against Dnipro Dnepropetrovsk. The Lithuanian forward spent last season with Rudupis Prienu. Buterlevicius averaged 8 points and 3.4 rebounds, while Rudupis won third place in LKL. The player also added 7.5 ppg and 4.2 rpg for 22 games in Baltic league. He had pretty close numbers for 6 appearances in EuroCup. Simas Buterlevicius played for Rytas from 2009 to 2011 as well. They won LKL title and Cup together two years ago. In the past, Buterlevicius was loaned to Perlas from Rytas. He also has experience from Sakalai Vilnius. Simas Buterlevicius successfully played for Lithuanian youth National Teams from 2005 to 2009.


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  MEXICO   

Standings - LNBP

LNBP Standings
 1. Halc.Xalapa 3-0 
 2. Panteras 3-0 
 3. Pioneros 3-0 
 4. Toros 3-0 
 5. Barreteros 2-1 
 6. Fuerza Regia 2-1 
 7. Halc.Rojos 2-1 
 8. Soles 1-2 
 9. Abejas 1-2 
 10. Guerreros 1-2 
 11. Osos 1-2 
 12. Huracanes 1-2 
 13. Corr.Victoria 1-2 
 14. Gansos 0-3 
 15. Gigantes 0-3 
 16. Lechugueros 0-3 

Regular Season: Round 3

Sep. 8: Pioneros - Huracanes 97-81
Sep. 9: Fuerza Regia - Lechugueros 90-75
Sep. 8: Gigantes - Halc.Xalapa 86-117
Sep. 9: Toros - Abejas 83-75
Sep. 8: Soles - Corr.Victoria 82-60
Sep. 8: Gansos - Panteras 72-91
Sep. 8: Guerreros - Barreteros 71-83
Sep. 8: Osos - Halc.Rojos 62-87

Regular Season: Round 4

Sep. 13: Corr.Victoria - Guerreros
Sep. 13: Huracanes - Gansos
Sep. 13: Panteras - Toros
Sep. 13: Barreteros - Fuerza Regia
Sep. 13: Lechugueros - Gigantes
Sep. 13: Abejas - Osos
Sep. 13: Halc.Rojos - Pioneros
Sep. 13: Halc.Xalapa - Soles


LNBP Round 3 of Regular Season - by Eurobasket News

This is still too early stage of the Regular Season in LNBP and we should expect many changes in upcoming rounds.

Gigantes - Halc.Xalapa 86-117
The game was mostly controlled by Halcones UV Xalapa. Gigantes was better in fourth quarter 21-20. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Halcones UV Xalapa players were unselfish on offense dishing 21 assists comparing to just 7 passes made by Gigantes' players. It was a great evening for American guard LeRoy Hickerson (196-G-82, college: Cumberlands) (196-82, college: Cumberlands) who led his team to a victory scoring 23 points (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field). His fellow American import forward Sammy Monroe (198-85, college: Newberry, agency: Prossin Sports Management) helped adding 16 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. Monroe is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top summer league for players who want to play basketball overseas. Five Halcones UV Xalapa players scored in double figures. Halcones UV Xalapa's coach Angel Gonzalez felt very confident that he used 11 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The best for the losing side was British V.Islands-Vincentian center John Gardiner (203-83, college: Sam Houston St.) with 29 points and 8 rebounds and American guard Sam Liggins (178, college: Alders.-Broad.) scored 25 points and 4 assists.
Top scorers:
Halc.Xalapa: O.Mendez-Valdez 24+1reb+1ast, L.Hickerson 23+4reb+1ast, S.Monroe 16+7reb+4ast, G.Vargas 15+2reb+4ast, F.Harris 13+3ast, A.Parada 9+4reb+2ast
Gigantes: J.Gardiner 29+8reb, S.Liggins 25+1reb+4ast, D.Wood 17+4reb, J.Inzunza 6+1reb+3ast, F.DIAZ 4+2reb, J.Torres 3
gschID: 188445


Osos - Halc.Rojos 62-87
Osos were not able to use a home court advantage and were crushed by the opponent from Veracruz 87-62. It looked good early as Osos took an 7-point lead at the end of first quarter. Then Halcones Rojos had a 24-14 second period charge getting the lead and Osos were not able to take back game control losing it eventually 62-87. It was a great evening for Venezuelan power forward Luis Bethelmy (200-86) who led his team to a victory scoring 20 points and 7 rebounds. The former international forward Noe Alonzo (200-83, college: Grand Canyon) helped adding 18 points. The best for the losing side was American forward Keith Gayden (202-83, college: Duquesne) with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 10 rebounds and the other American import forward Larry Smith (199-84) scored 15 points and 6 rebounds (perfect from the field making all six shots).
Top scorers:
Halc.Rojos: L.Bethelmy 20+7reb, N.Alonzo 18+1reb+1ast, C.Rivera 11+2reb+4ast, M.Mitchell 9+1reb+8ast, J.Aubry 8+10reb, A.Solares 6+4reb
Osos: K.Gayden 22+10reb, L.Smith 15+6reb, M.Bryant 12+4reb+1ast, M.Helton 7+4reb+2ast, E.Zuniga 3+3reb, M.Saucedo 2
gschID: 188446


Gansos - Panteras 72-91
Very expected game when bottom-ranked Gansos (0-3) were smashed at home by leader Panteras (3-0) 91-72. The game was mostly controlled by Panteras. Gansos was better in third quarter 22-21. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Panteras dominated down low during the game scoring 66 of its points in the paint compared to Gansos' 44 and made 16-of-21 charity shots (76.2 percent) during the game. Panteras forced 19 Gansos turnovers. It was a great evening for American power forward Lee Nailon (205-75, college: TCU) who led his team to a victory scoring 20 points and 6 rebounds. The former international swingman Jorge Alfredo Casillas (196-90) helped adding 14 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. The best for the losing side was American CamRon Clay (203-82) with 22 points and 9 rebounds and the other American import guard Devin Chambers (188-86, college: S.Maine) scored 16 points and 5 rebounds.
Top scorers:
Panteras: L.Nailon 20+6reb, J.Alfredo Casillas 14+5reb+4ast, R.Melendez 12+1reb+2ast, K.Malpica 10+6reb+6ast, A.Garcia 9+5reb+4ast, E.Ayileke 8+3reb
Gansos: C.Clay 22+9reb, G.Silva 16+4reb+2ast, D.Chambers 16+5reb+1ast, J.Perez 12+1reb, G.Abraham 2+8reb+1ast, C.Tostado 2+2reb
gschID: 188442


Toros - Abejas 83-75
It looked good early as Abejas took an 1-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Toros had a 20-15 second period charge getting the lead and Abejas were not able to take back game control losing it eventually 75-83. Toros had a 28-17 advantage in offensive rebounds. Abejas were plagued by 29 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a great evening for American swingman Rene Rougeau (198-86, college: UNLV, agency: ProSportsCareers) who led his team to a victory scoring 15 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field). International point guard Brody Angley (180-86, college: Santa Clara, agency: JEMsports) helped adding 17 points and 5 assists (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field). Five Toros players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was American forward Eugene Phelps (198, college: Long Beach St.) with 21 points and 9 rebounds and the other American import forward Steffphon Pettigrew (195, college: W.Kentucky) scored 17 points and 5 rebounds. Abejas' coach Daniel Jaule tested eleven players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. Toros have a solid series of three victories in a row.
Top scorers:
Toros: B.Angley 17+3reb+5ast, R.Rougeau 15+8reb+6ast, I.Ofoegbu 14+7reb+2ast, A.Henning 12+8reb+1ast, J.Lopez 11+1reb+1ast, L.Ellis Vasquez 9+3reb
Abejas: E.Phelps 21+9reb+3ast, S.Pettigrew 17+5reb+2ast, V.Buelna 11+3reb+4ast, M.Mattis 9+6reb, A.Sandoval 8+2reb, I.Gonzalez 5+1reb+2ast
gschID: 188443


Fuerza Regia - Lechugueros 90-75
Not a big story in a game when bottom-ranked Lechugueros (0-3) lost to sixth ranked Fuerza Regia (2-1) in Monterrey 75-90.
gschID: 188444


Soles - Corr.Victoria 82-60
It looked good early as Correcaminos took an 5-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Soles had a 27-19 second period charge getting the lead and Correcaminos were not able to take back game control losing it eventually 60-82. Soles players were unselfish on offense dishing 21 assists comparing to just 7 passes made by Correcaminos' players. It was a great evening for the former international forward Roman Martinez (201-88, college: N.Mexico) who led his team to a victory scoring 20 points. American guard Carl Elliott (193-83, college: G.Washington, agency: SportsTalent) helped adding 17 points. Coach Ivan Deniz's team controlled all game and the coach could let to play 11 players and allowed the starting five to rest. The best for the losing side was American center Deangelo Riley (205, college: Azusa Pacific) with 15 points and 9 rebounds and the other American import forward Rodney Alexander (201-87, college: Oklahoma City) produced a double-double by scoring 12 points and 10 rebounds.
Top scorers:
Soles: R.Martinez 20+1reb+3ast, C.Elliott 17+3reb+3ast, N.Doaks 14+5reb+1ast, J.Luis Bucio 13+3reb+4ast, M.Fraser 8+13reb+1ast, J.Griffin 7+4reb+1ast
Corr.Victoria: D.Riley 15+9reb+1ast, R.Alexander 12+10reb, O.McCullough 12+6reb+3ast, B.Heredia 10+1reb, J.Sanchez 8+2reb+1ast, J.Sanchez 3+1ast
gschID: 188440


Guerreros - Barreteros 71-83
It was a good game for forward Christopher Silva who led his team to a victory with 20 points and 7 rebounds. American guard Jason Horton (188-86, college: Missouri) contributed with 16 points and 9 assists for the winners. Horton is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Five Barreteros players scored in double figures. American forward Chris Kaba (203-88, college: N.Colorado) answered with 20 points and 8 rebounds and the other American import forward Travis Gabbidon (201, college: UTSA) added 16 points in the effort for Guerreros.
Top scorers:
Barreteros: C.Silva 20+7reb+2ast, J.Horton 16+3reb+9ast, R.Navarro 15+2reb+3ast, S.Escobar 12+5reb, M.Batte 10+8reb, R.Loera Almanza 8+2reb+1ast
Guerreros: C.Kaba 20+8reb+3ast, M.Hunter 17+1reb+1ast, T.Gabbidon 16+3reb+1ast, A.Raj 8+2reb+1ast, J.Calvo 4+2reb+1ast, Y.Castro 2+4reb+2ast
gschID: 188441


Pioneros - Huracanes 97-81
The game without a history. Pioneros led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 56 of its points in the paint compared to Huracanes' 36 and made 20-of-26 charity shots (76.9 percent) during the game. They outrebounded Huracanes 47-28 including a 15-1 advantage in offensive rebounds. Pioneros players were unselfish on offense dishing 22 assists. It was a great evening for American forward Jeremis Smith (203-86, college: Georgia Tech) who led his team to a victory scoring 19 points and 6 rebounds. Jamaican-American point guard Akeem Scott (186-83, college: High Point) helped adding 14 points and 5 assists. Scott attended previously one of camps at Eurobasket Summer League on his way to pro basketball. The best for the losing side was American swingman Marcus Morrison (198-84, college: Middle Tenn.St.) with 19 points and 7 rebounds and the other American import swingman Denver Holmes (193, college: Evansville) scored 19 points.
Top scorers:
Pioneros: J.Smith 19+6reb+1ast, A.Scott 14+1reb+5ast, L.Keeler 12+4reb, F.Fisher 12+4reb+2ast, H.Llamas 9+8reb, M.Williams 8+8reb+3ast
Huracanes: M.Morrison 19+7reb+1ast, D.Holmes 19+4reb+3ast, J.Farrera 10+4reb, O.Quintero 8+4ast, A.Johnson 7+7reb+1ast, J.Gonzalez 7+1reb+1ast


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  MONTENEGRO   


Tepavcevic joined Teodo - by Darko Pekic

The experienced Bosnian forward Sinisa Tepavcevic (201-F-84) signed today a contract with newly promoted Balkan League member Teodo. He will be a useful addition to the team coached by Slobodan Savovic as he already has Balkan league experience (Zrinjski and Ulcinj). Tepavcevic started the last season in Zrinjski but after the first part of the season he moved back to Ulcinj where he averaged 13.1ppg, 4.9rpg, 2.4apg in the domestic championship.

Tepavcevic started his professional career in Bosnia for Mladost Gacko but he spent most of his career in Montenegrin first division (Niksic, Primorje, Mogren). In order to have a competitive team for the hard challanges in Balkan League Teodo will need more reinforcements and according to eurobasket.com sources in the Club, the management will take adequate measures in the next couple of days.


Updates from Herceg Novi: Primorje is now called Primorje 1945 - by Darko Pekic

Basketball club Primorje from Herceg Novi started today their season preparation and announced that they had brought six newcomers for the 2012/2013 season. And it will probably not be the end of their transfer activities. The newcomers are former Buducnost and Danilovgrad point guard and U20 NT member of Montenegro, Bojan Ratkovic (181-PG-92), U18 NT member of Montenegro Vaso Popovic (184-G-94) who came from Mediteran, his teammates Stefan Perovic (202-F/C-93) who played for Buducnost also, and Serbian players Nemanja Mitic, Djordje Jakovljevic and Aleksandar Radenkovic (185-G-92).

They will join the players that played for Primorje last year: Denis Arapovic (188-G-92), Stefan Arapovic (191-G/F-90), Jovan Bacovic (197-F-86), Veselin Kovacevic (200-F-94), Luka Savic (199-F-95) and Rajko Krivokapic (199-F-85).Two youth players participated in the first practice: Mirko Dabovic (1994) and Pavle Roganovic (1995). The club will be called this year Primorje 1945 and it will represent all the clubs from Municipality of Herceg Novi, which means they all will participate in Primorje's activities. The news is that all youth selections will be reorganized and Primorje will have six youth selections next season coached by local coaches.


Ulcinj ready for the new season - by Darko Pekic

The management of Ulcinj basketball club announced today the roster for season 2012/2013. The roster has many new names starting from the experienced guard who last year played in Podgorica- Lazar Simonovic (185-G-82) and former player of Red Star Belgrade and Teodo Dusan Milosevic (198-G-91, agency: BeoExcell). Other newcomers are Sekula Jovanovic, Vlado Koprivica (206-C-93), Vladimir Osmajic (204-F/C-80) and Dragoje Dakovic, former player of Pljevlja and Niksic youth team.

The old faces are Milan Latkovic (184-G-86), Milo Unkasevic (191-G),Stefan Klikovac (189-G-94),Celis Taflaj (185-G-98), Ilija Milic (183-G) and Arben Markasevic. The team will be coached by Nikola Milatovic who will be assisted by the former international player Milosav Susic and with two more signings (currently two players are in negotitions with the Club) they will look to play an important role in the League this year.


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  NBA   


Dozier is back at Miami Heat - by Eurobasket

Miami Heat (NBA) agreed terms with 27-year old forward Robert Dozier (206-102kg-85, college: Memphis). Its actually his comeback to Miami as he played here before. He joined Heat pre-season squad together with Harris. Dozier played last season at Cholet Basket in French ProA. In 22 ProA games he recorded 9.5ppg, 5.4rpg and 1.1apg. He helped them to make it to the cup semifinals.
He played also professionally in Greece. Dozier graduated University of Memphis in 2009 and it will be his fourth season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center


Shurna joins New York Knicks roster - by Eurobasket

New York Knicks (NBA) agreed terms with 22-year old American forward John Shurna (205-90, agency: Priority Sports). Shurna just graduated from Northwestern (NCAA). In 31 games last season he recorded 19.8ppg, 5.2rpg, 2.7apg and 1.2spg. He helped them to make it to the NIT Sweet 16 last season. Shurna was also selected to play in the Reeses College All-Star Game. He represented USA at the World Championships U19 in New Zealand three years ago. Shurnas team won Gold and his stats at that event were 9 games: 6.0ppg, 3.9rpg, FGP: 51.4%, 3PT-3 (70.6%), FT: 33.3%.
Of course it will be Shurnas first season in professional basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center


Harris re-signs at Miami Heat - by Eurobasket

Miami Heat (NBA) confirmed in their roster 25-year old guard Terrel Harris (196-86kg-87, college: Oklahoma State). He has played there for the last first seasons. Harris has played there for the last one seasons. In 26 NBA games he recorded 3.3ppg, 2.1rpg and 1.0apg. He played also at Rio Grande Valley Vipers that season. In 7 D-League games he recorded 17.0ppg, 6.0rpg, 4.7apg and 2.1spg. Harris won NBA championship title in 2012.
He played also professionally in France and Germany. Harris graduated Oklahoma State in 2009 and it will be his fourth season in pro basketball.
However Harris is 16th player at the team and they still have one week to go before the pre-season camp. So there will be for sure some cuts at the team.

By Eurobasket Data Center


Cavaliers: Alonzo Gee signs three-year, $10 million contract - by Eurobasket News

Finally, after almost 2 1/2 months of negotiations, the Cavaliers signed restricted free agent Alonzo Gee (6'6''-G-87, college: Alabama).

Gee, 25, signed a three-year deal worth approximately $10 million, a source said.

He changed agents in the middle of the negotiations, which delayed the process. His new agent is Happy Walters.

It took a while getting everyone on the same page, Walters said. Alonzo is happy to be there and get going. It works out well for everyone.

The 6-foot-6, 219-pound Gee is expected to be the Cavs starting small forward. He recorded career highs in almost every category in 2011-12 by averaging 10.6 points, 5.1 rebounds, 1.8 assists and 1.3 steals in 63 games (31 starts). He shot 41.2 percent from the field, 78.8 percent from the foul line and 32.1 percent from 3-point range.

I am excited to be back with the Cavs and be a part of what is being built here in Cleveland, Gee said in a statement released by the team. I wanted things to work out for me to be here, and Im really happy that they did. Im really thankful that the Cavs gave me an opportunity, and I cant wait to get back to work with Coach Scott and our coaches and my teammates.

Gee took over for Omri Casspi in the starting lineup at small forward for the second half of last season.

From the start of free agency, we made it clear that re-signing Alonzo was important to us and were happy weve been able to do that, Cavs general manager Chris Grant said in a prepared statement. Alonzo has worked very hard to make the most of the opportunities he has had thus far, and it has been great to see his development and growth as a Cavalier. Were excited he will be part of our team as our young group of players continues to grow together.

The Cavs signed swingman C.J. Miles in free agency this summer, but he is expected to back up both the shooting guard and small forward spots. Gee is thought of as a better defender and rebounder.

Originally intrigued by his athleticism and jumping ability, the Cavs signed Gee as a free agent on Dec. 28, 2010.

Hes worked hard this summer and is a better player, Walters said. Hes taking this very seriously. Hopefully, the team will play well this year.

The Cavs are also close to signing power forward Kevin Jones, an undrafted free agent from West Virginia. A source said he had yet to sign his contract as of Monday afternoon. His signing would give the Cavs 18 players under contract.

They are expected to host media day on Monday, Oct. 1, with training camp officially starting the next day.

Courtesy of http://news-herald.com


Cavaliers sign Kevin Jones - by Eurobasket News

The Cavaliers have officially signed undrafted free agent Kevin Jones (6'8''-F-89), according to a report from HoopsHype. We had already known that the Cavs had come to some sort of an agreement with Jones and his agent, but apparently there was no contract signed until now. He was on the Cavaliers' Summer League roster but was not in attendance due to an injured foot.

"The Cavaliers hung with Kevin during his (foot) injury, which is great," Neff said. "The injury set him back during the workout process. He is healthy now."

Jones averaged 19.9 ppg and 10.0 rpg in his senior year with the Mountaineers and was named to the All-Big East 1st Team

Courtesy of www.fearthesword.com


Julius Erving will write autobiography - by Eurobasket News

Julius Erving, one of the greatest players in the history of professional basketball, who became known as Dr. J for the way he operated above the rim, has signed to write his autobiography.

It is believed to be a $1 million deal.

The book, tentatively titled Dr. J, will be co-written by Sports Illustrated Senior Writer Phil Taylor and is scheduled for publication in May 2013.

HarperCollins Executive Editor David Hirshey acquired worldwide rights to the book from Ervings business manager, Alan Rubin, and his literary agent, Matthew Guma. (HarperCollins is owned by News Corp., which also owns The Post.)

Erving retired in 1987, and is one of the few players to have numbers retired by two different teams No. 32 from his days when he led the then Long Island-based New York Nets to two championships while earning two MVP awards in the old American Basketball Association and the No. 6 worn with the Philadelphia 76ers, where he earned MVP honors en route to an NBA championship.

Erving was the master of the slam dunk and was the third-highest scoring player in professional basketball history, with 30,026 points when he retired.

Even now, 25 years later, hes still No. 5 on the all-time list.

Since he hung up his sneakers, Erving has all but disappeared from the limelight.

As high as he soared on the court, outside the arena Erving suffered a couple of well-publicized personal setbacks.

I havent really tried to stay in the spotlight since I stopped playing, but its found me a couple of times, Erving told Media Ink. Im ready to talk about all those stories. People may have read some things, but they havent really heard about them in my voice. I want this to be Julius Erving, the good and the bad, flaws and all.

In 1999, it was revealed that he had an affair and fathered a child out of wedlock a then 19-year-old tennis player named Alexandra Stevenson, who had advanced to the semi-finals of Wimbledon on her first appearance in the tournament.

Then, a year later, Ervings son, Cory, was found dead from apparent drowning after driving his car into a pond near the family home.

Erving and his wife, Turquoise, dissolved their 29-year marriage in 2003, after it was disclosed he had had another affair, with Dorys Madden, whom he ended up marrying five years later.

A lot of his exploits in the NBA were well-documented, but many of his experiences in the ABA where he was the most dominant player in the league by a wide margin went unrecorded because the struggling league never had a national TV contract and many of its games were not televised.

He said he was given the nickname, The Doctor, by a high school friend at Roosevelt High, where he played schoolboy hoops. It finally stuck for good when he started playing in the famous Rucker League in Harlem.

Courtesy of www.nypost.com


Knicks' JR Smith guarantees championship and 'nothing less' - by Eurobasket News

The Knicks want a ring and nothing less, according to J.R. Smith (6'6''-G-85).

The mercurial guard said as much to NYPost.com at a fashion event this weekend. When asked what fans could expect from the Knicks this season, Smith said frankly, a championship.

Nothing less, Smith said. If we settle for anything less, we already start off losing.

WATCH HERE.

The Knicks lost Jeremy Lin in the offseason, but have added Jason Kidd, Marcus Camby and Raymond Felton to the roster. Carmelo Anthony was integral in leading Team USA to the gold medal at the London Olympics and Amare Stoudemire spent some of the offseason working out with legendary former Rockets center Hakeem Olajuwon.

Smith also called out some of the top contending teams in the NBA in the interview, saying the Knicks will beat any of them.

Lakers, Heat whoever, Smith said.

The Heat won the title last year and added Ray Allen, while the Lakers have brought in Steve Nash and Dwight Howard.

As long as the Knicks have Smith, though, theyll be the league leaders in trash talk and eccentricity.

Courtesy of www.nypost.com


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  NBLCANADA   


Rainmen re-sign All-Star Joey Haywood - by Eurobasket News

Rainmen re-sign All-Star Joey Haywood.


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  NCAA1   


Jabari Bird, five-star prospect, commits to Cal Bears - by Rick Ross

Courtesy of CNNSI.COM

Five-star high school standout Jabari Bird wont have to travel far when he leaves for college next year.
The Richmond, Calif. product announced Tuesday evening that he will attend the
University of California next year and play for the Bears, according to Ryan Gorcey of BearTerritory.net:

It was just hanging out with the team, Bird said. It was getting to know them a little bit better.
I got to be on campus a lot more. I just knew that Cal was the place for me to be.

The commitment wont become official until the early-signing period begins on
Nov. 14. Bird is the first five-star player since former NBA star Leon Powe to commit to
Cal. Gorcey said that Pac-12 coaches believed as far back as January that Bird would go to Cal.
His last visit to the school was Sept. 1, and he was reportedly set to make visits to three other schools in
September, including one to Washington.

Im not going on any more visits; Im committed, Bird said.

A McDonalds All-American candidate, Bird has already separated himself from other top players in the country.
At the Under Armour Elite-24 camp in August, he had 20 points and three assists.
Fellow five-star players Marcus Lee and Aaron Gordon, who was also at the Elite-24 workout,
accompanied Bird during his last visit to Cal but theres no word on their decisions yet.


Best Balikesir adds rookie Malcolm Kirkland for 2012/13 - by Eurobasket News

Malcolm Kirkland (203-F/C) is set to start his professional basketball career. The American power forward/center penned a 1-year deal with Best Balikesir. They will compete in Turkish second division for men - TB2L. Kirkland is a product of Arkansas State University, where he graduated few months ago. The player had 12.1 ppg and 6.2 rpg for his school in 34 games as a senior. Arkansas State reached Sun Belt Tournament Semifinals, while Kirkland was named to All-Sun Belt 3rd Team -12. As a junior Malcolm Kirkland had much lower numbers. For 32 games he registered 4.8 ppg and 3.6 rpg. Arkansas State was Sun Belt West Division regular season co-champion that year. Kirkland transferred to Arkansas State in 2009 from the Oklahoma State University. He was redshirted in 2009/10 season due to NCAA transfer rules.


Murray State guard accused of hitting 2 with car - by Eurobasket News

Murray State point guard Zay Jackson (6'0''-G-92) is accused of hitting two people with his car in a Walmart parking lot.

The 20-year-old sophomore was charged with two counts of first-degree assault and was being held Sunday night the Calloway County jail.

Police arrested Jackson around 4 p.m. following an altercation in a Wal-Mart parking lot where he hit two people with his white Monte Carlo, causing minor injuries.

An arraignment was scheduled Monday morning.

Jackson was a reserve who averaged 4.9 points, 2.3 assists and 2.1 rebounds as a freshman. He was projected to start this year for Murray State, which went 31-2 and beat Colorado State in its NCAA tournament opener last March.

The Racers lost to Marquette in the next round.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com


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  NIGERIA   


ACCMW Qualifier: Pillars overpower ABC in last day match-up - by Olusegun Ikuesan

Nigeria Kano Pillars basketball club Sunday proved to be a hard nut as it defeated Abidjan Basketball Club by 66-40 points in a reverse fixture of the Africa Champions Cup for Men Zone-3 elimination in Monrovia, Liberia.

With Sunday results Pillars thus lead qualified clubs from the zone to the final round of the continent biggest club competition while the Ivorian side picked the second ticket.

In the women qualifier, Abidjan Basket Club (ABC) top the five-team women qualifying round with 8 points after winning all it four games while Nigeria First Deepwater basketball club placed second with three win and one lose with Nigeria other women representative finishing third on the log.

ABC and First Deepwater thus qualify to represent the zone in the final round of the women competition coming up in Cote dIvoire next month.

DAY-6 RESULTS
ABC 40 66 KANO PILLARS
UHURU KINGS 72 73 LPRC OILERS


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  PHILIPPINES   


Ginebra match against Qatar called off as hard foul almost leads to brawl - by Eurobasket

WHAT was supposed to be a friendly between Ginebra San Miguel and the Qatar national team on Tuesday night turned into a near brawl among the players, forcing officials to call off the match.
Qatars 6-8 center-forward Mohammed Yousef (204-C) tagged Barangay Ginebra center Kerby Raymundo (199-C-81) with a hard foul as he was going for a layup in the third quarter, earning the ire of the Gin Kings slotman.
Tempers flared soon after, with Raymundo claiming the Qatari big man approached him and said something to him just as he was about to go to the free throw line.
Cooler heads separated the two men as well as players from the opposing camps who by then had started to gather infront of the Ginebra bench, preventing the incident from escalating into a full-blown brawl.
Delikado na yung ginagawa niya eh. Di ko alam kung anong puwedeng mangyari sa akin sa laro. Kasi nananakit na rin siya, said Raymundo, who also claimed Yousef had been thrash-talking him the whole game.
Even San Miguel Corp. sports director Noli Eala later admitted in a tweet that the Qatari center merely retaliated after a hard foul in an earlier play by Raymundo.
He said: "Game got a bit physical. Hard foul by Kerby on Qatari center. He retaliated n that's were it got out of hand. No punches but better to stop."
The friendly, held at the Ronac gym in San Juan, was stopped at the 4:47 mark of the third period. Qatar was ahead, 55-52, when officials from both camps decided to call off the match.
Eala, who watched the match from ringside and ordered that it be stopped, also got into an argument with some Qatari officials.
I was just telling them to stop the game, pero mainit pa rin, said a fuming Eala. It was just unfortunate that this thing happened. Basketball is a physical game. It would have been nice to see them play.
Qatars team manager Ahmed Abdul-hadi, meantime, said the Qataris had no intention of hurting the Gin Kings since all they wanted was to prepare for the coming FIBA Asia Cup set in Tokyo, Japan.
We know that the Filipinos, if they want to win basketball, theyll try to hit you," Abdul-hadi told Spin.ph.
"We never had any kind of a problem before playing here. We love this country and we love the people. Our coach was just using a lot of our players to see what we can do to better improve our team as we go to Japan.

Courtesy of PBA Online


2012 FIBA-Asia Cup Scouting Report: The Naturalizers - by Enzo Flojo

The biggest continental tournament in this corner of the basketball world will unfold in about a week. This will determine the first three qualifiers in the 2013 FIBA-Asia Mens Championships, which, in turn, will award the top three finishers with automatic berths in the 2014 FIBA World Championships.

Needless to say, this tournament is going to be big, so your friendly neighborhood Hoop Nut has taken it upon himself to detail some of the personalities to watch for. This is the first in a series of scouting reports aimed at unveiling some of the names well have to remember as the FIBA-Asia Cup unfolds. Some of these names are staples of the FIBA-Asia scene, some are due to break out , while some are rising stars destined to carry their respective countries causes in the future.

In the first part of this series, we looked at the grizzled veterans, in the second part, we discussed the guys poised to breakout big time, and in the third part, we saw some of the really young guns. In this fourth and last part of the series, I will be writing about the four naturalized players who will make their mark in Tokyo. These are guys who, by FIBAs standards, are not counted as locals or local-born, but are players who have earned the right to represent their respective adopted countries through the process of naturalization. By casual definition, these guys are imports, but some of them have actually imbibed the local culture deep enough that, by all intents and purposes, they have transcended that label of being naturalized.

Marcus Douthit of the Philippines
Douthit has been a mainstay of the SMART-Gilas program since 2010, and he has been a pillar of strength for the Philippines underneath. Not since Marlou Aquinos stint in the 1998 Centennial Team and Asi Taulavas best outing in the 2002 Asian Games has the Philippine NT seen a dominant low post force, and they will need every bit of Douthits imposing presence for a coveted top 3 finish in Tokyo. He averaged 16.9ppg, 10.9rpg, and 1.4bpg in the recent 2012 Jones Cup, helping the Philippines to its first taste of international gold at this level in a LONG time. Hell need to produce at a consistent rate for Coach Chot Reyess team to really fulfill its potential. His age, however, (Douthit is in his early 30s) is a big concern.

Garnett Thompson of Lebanon
Like Douthit, Thompson isnt exactly a spring chicken hes 32 years old but, at least based on his recent highlights, he can still get up and down the court and jump as if he was still in his mid-20s. This lefty can also shoot the three, which should extend the opposing defense a bit. Hes about a couple of inches short than Douthit, but it seems hell make up for it with a bit more mobility. Hell probably partner with beanpole Charles Tabet up front for Coach Ghassan Sarkis. He normed 17.6ppg, 11.0rpg, and 1.5bpg in his latest stint for Champville in the Lebanese pro league.

JR Sakuragi of Japan
The former UCLA Bruin has been Japans resident naturalized player since 2007, but he missed both the 2009 and 2011 FIBA-Asia jousts as the Takeuchi twins took control of Japans frontline. He was reinserted into the NT primarily since the new national Head Coach, Kimikazu Suzuki, is his own coach for the Aisin Seahorses. His age is a big concern (Sakuragi is 36 years of age), but if his recent stats are proof of anything (17.4ppg, 11.8rpg, and 52.6 FG%), its that he can still compete with the best of em.

Trey Johnson of Qatar
At just 65 and being just 28 years old, Johnson is the outlier of this bunch of naturalized players. The former NBA journeyman last played for the New Orleans Hornets. He played in 11 games, averaging just 1.9ppg in 5.5 minutes of action per contest. Hell be the new resident playmaker and main wing threat for Coach Tom Wisman as former star Targuy Nombo wont be around (he was deemed ineligible in last years FIBA-Asia joust). Johnson will be a headache for opposing guards, but even his presence might not be enough to lift the talent-starved Qatar quintet into the top 3 of the FIBA-Asia Cup.

Source:HoopNut.blogspot.com


PBA backs SBP's bid to host 2013 FIBA-Asia tilt - by Eurobasket News

The Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) will lend its full support to the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) when the cage body lobbies for the countrys hosting of the FIBA-Asia Mens Championship next week.

League commissioner Chito Salud confirmed hell form part of the delegation that travels to Tokyo, Japan on Sept. 18 to make a case before executives of FIBA-Asia about the Philippines capability to stage an event as big as the qualifier for the 2014 FIBA-World Championships.

Salud will be with a small but important group of Filipino basketball officials travelling to the Japanese capital for the countrys presentation of its hosting bid. The SBP will be led by president Manny V. Pangilinan, vice-chairman Ricky Vargas, executive director Sonny Barrios, and former FIBA-Asia secretary general Moying Martelino.

The PBA Board of Governors will also pitch in its support as Salud is going to be accompanied by Chairman Robert Non, Vice-chairman Ramon Segismundo, and Treasurer Ely Capacio.

Aside from the Philippines, also bidding to host the 2013 FIBA-Asia meet are Iran and late entry Japan.

I intend to impress upon our leaders in FIBA-Asia that the PBA is one with the SBP in its quest to regain basketball supremacy here in Asia, said Salud. Unequivocal is our support of SBPs quest to host the FIBA-Asia qualifying tournament here in 2013 and we want to make sure (FIBA-Asia) secretary-general Hagop Khajirian of Lebanon gets that message.

Khajirian recently visited the country for an ocular inspection of the Mall of Asia Arena, and came away impressed with the newly-built playing venue patterned after some of the arenas owned by NBA teams.

The country hosted the inaugural staging of the biennial meet in 1960 when it was still known as the Asian Basketball Confederation (ABC) Championship. A five-time winner second in the history of the event the Philippine last hosted the cagefest in 1973.

Salud believes Filipino basketball fans are excited about the prospect of bringing the FIBA-Asia championship here after Smart Gilas-Pilipinas 2.0 won the 34th William Jones Cup basketball tournament in Taipei recently.

He said the countrys chances of qualifying for the FIBA-World Championship in Spain two years from now would be even better if the meet is held here given the expected hot reception of the local fans and considering that the top three teams earn outright berths to the tournament many consider as the Olympics of basketball.

We in the PBA stand side-by-side with FIBA and the SBP in making sure that Asian basketball is developed to its peak, added Salud.

The effort of the commissioner to help the SBP in its hosting bid is the second major support Asias pioneering cage league has extended to the countrys governing body in basketball under Saluds watch.

Working hand-in-hand with the entire PBA Board, Salud allowed the lending of 16 pro players later increased to 20 to the national training pool which later formed the core of Smart Gilas 2.0 handled by coach Vincent Reyes .

Following the Nationals success in the Jones Cup, they embark on yet another campaign as they see action in the FIBA Asia Cup (formerly known as the Stankovic Cup) set Sept. 14 to 22 in Tokyo, Japan that coincides with the FIBA-Asia executive meeting.

Salud and the members of the Board will also support the title drive of the Nationals by watching some of their scheduled games.

Courtesy of http://ph.sports.yahoo.com


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  POLAND   


PGE Turow bring in Ivan Opacak - by Eurobasket News

PGE Turow bolstered their squad. They agreed on terms of contract with Ivan Opacak (201-SG-80, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group). The forward spent the previous season in Croatia. He played for Cedevita. Ivan Opacak notched 7.7 points and 2.0 rebounds per game in A1 League. In EuroCup Ivan Opacak delivered 4.0 points and 2.6 rebounds per appearance. The forward also tallied 6.5 points and 1.6 rebounds per game in Adriatic League. Ivan Opacak was named Eurobasket.com All-Croatian A1 League Forward of the Year. Previously the forward had stints in Bosnia, Spain and Switzerland. He made it into All-Bosnia and Herzegovina League 1st Team in 2006. In 2011 Ivan Opacak was named into All-Bosnia and Herzegovina League 2nd Team. He has been the member of Bosnia and Herzegovina National Team since 1998.


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  QATAR   


Ginebra match against Qatar called off as hard foul almost leads to brawl - by Eurobasket

WHAT was supposed to be a friendly between Ginebra San Miguel and the Qatar national team on Tuesday night turned into a near brawl among the players, forcing officials to call off the match.
Qatars 6-8 center-forward Mohammed Yousef (204-C) tagged Barangay Ginebra center Kerby Raymundo (199-C-81) with a hard foul as he was going for a layup in the third quarter, earning the ire of the Gin Kings slotman.
Tempers flared soon after, with Raymundo claiming the Qatari big man approached him and said something to him just as he was about to go to the free throw line.
Cooler heads separated the two men as well as players from the opposing camps who by then had started to gather infront of the Ginebra bench, preventing the incident from escalating into a full-blown brawl.
Delikado na yung ginagawa niya eh. Di ko alam kung anong puwedeng mangyari sa akin sa laro. Kasi nananakit na rin siya, said Raymundo, who also claimed Yousef had been thrash-talking him the whole game.
Even San Miguel Corp. sports director Noli Eala later admitted in a tweet that the Qatari center merely retaliated after a hard foul in an earlier play by Raymundo.
He said: "Game got a bit physical. Hard foul by Kerby on Qatari center. He retaliated n that's were it got out of hand. No punches but better to stop."
The friendly, held at the Ronac gym in San Juan, was stopped at the 4:47 mark of the third period. Qatar was ahead, 55-52, when officials from both camps decided to call off the match.
Eala, who watched the match from ringside and ordered that it be stopped, also got into an argument with some Qatari officials.
I was just telling them to stop the game, pero mainit pa rin, said a fuming Eala. It was just unfortunate that this thing happened. Basketball is a physical game. It would have been nice to see them play.
Qatars team manager Ahmed Abdul-hadi, meantime, said the Qataris had no intention of hurting the Gin Kings since all they wanted was to prepare for the coming FIBA Asia Cup set in Tokyo, Japan.
We know that the Filipinos, if they want to win basketball, theyll try to hit you," Abdul-hadi told Spin.ph.
"We never had any kind of a problem before playing here. We love this country and we love the people. Our coach was just using a lot of our players to see what we can do to better improve our team as we go to Japan.

Courtesy of PBA Online


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  RUSSIA   


Lokomotiv Kuban prevail against Dnipro at Garastas Cup - by Eurobasket News

Lokomotiv Kuban - Dnipro 100:91

Lokomotiv Kuban stayed undefeated at the Garastas Cup in Lithuania. They knocked down Dnipro yesterday. Aleks Maric (211-C-84, college: Nebraska) posted 21 points and 8 rebounds to lead the winners. Lokomotiv Kuban will now face Lietuvos Rytas for the trophy.
Lokomotiv Kuban stormed into the game. They unleashed 31 points in the opening ten minutes to ensure a 15-point lead. Dnipro slowed their opponents down a bit in the second frame. The Ukrainian team trailed by 15 points at halftime 38:43. Dnipro started to claw their way back into the game in the third frame. They cut the deficit by 8 points in the third term. The Ukrainain team finally narrowed the gap at 4-point mark but Lokomotiv Kuban increased the tempo late in the game and rolled to the victory at the end. Nikita Shabalkin (205-F-86) and Valery Likhodey (205-F-86) provided 15 points each for Lokomotiv. Nick Calathes (198-G-89, college: Florida) and Maksim Sheleketo (204-F-87) had 13 points apiece in the victory.


Kryvbasbasket prevail against Triumph in test game - by Eurobasket News

Kryvbasbasket - Triumph 93:86

Kryvbasbasket clinched another pre-season win. They faced Triumph Lyubertsy in Lithuania and celebrated another success. Winsome Frazier (193-F/G-82, college: Mississippi St.) stepped up with 27 points to lead the Kryvyi Rih team.
Triumph surged ahead in the starting quarter. The Russian team accumulated a 25:21 lead after ten minutes. They maintained the lead throughout the second period. Triumph secured a 50:42 halftime advantage. Kryvbasbasket however turned things around in the third quarter. They Ukrainian team went on a 27:17 rally to secure a 2-point lead into the fourth frame. Kryvbasbasket outscored Triumph in the fourth quarter and sealed the victory. Pierce Caldwell (191-G-88, agency: Alti Sport, college: Incarnate Word) finished with 23 points, while Vitali Malchevskiy (204-F-87) added 14 points for the winners. Tywain McKee (188-PG-86, college: Coppin St.) responded with 26 points for Triumph. Kyle Landry (207-C/F-86, college: N.Arizona) and Tasmin Mitchell (201-F-86, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav, college: LSU) accounted for 16 points each in the loss.

Kryvbasbasket: Winsome Frazier 27 Pierce Caldwell 23, Vitali Malchevskiy 14
Triumph: Tywain McKee 26, Kyle Landry 16, Tasmin Mitchell 16


Spartak-Primorie edge Cedevita - by Eurobasket News

Spartak-Primorie gained another pre-season victory. They defeated Croatian Cedevita 72:60 in Porec. Michael Efevberha (199-G-84, college: CS Northridge) scored 19 points to lead the Vladivostok team.
The teams stayed close throughout the first quarter. Spartak-Primorie eked out a 19:17 lead after ten minutes. They boosted the gap in the second frame. The Russian team limited their opponents at just 8 points and secured a 12-point advantage at the interval 37:25. Cedevita showed signs of recovery in the third term. They outscored Spartak to trim the deficit at 8-point mark. However Spartak-Primorie went on an 18:14 run in the fourth term to seal the victory. Paul Delaney (188-G-86, college: UAB) provided 18 points, while Troy Gillenwater (205-F-88, college: N.Mexico St.) added 12 points for the winners.


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  SERBIA   


Crvena Zvezda target Demarcus Nelson - by Eurobasket News

Crvena Zvezda are seeking to bolster their roster. Various reports indicate that the team is in talks with DeMarcus Nelson (191-G-85, college: Duke). The guard started the previous season in Ukraine. DeMarcus Nelson posted 10.6 points, 4.4 boards, 2.5 assists and 1.6 steals per game in Superleague for BC Donetsk. He left for France in November. DeMarcus Nelson signed with Cholet Basket. The guard averaged 13.7 points, 3.8 rebounds, 3.6 assists and 1.3 steals per game in ProA. He earned All-French ProA Honourable Mention. Previously DeMarcus Nelson had stints in France, Italy, Croatia and D-League. He was French SuperCup winner and ProA finalist in 2011.


Anadolu Efes reportedly wants to sign Marko Keselj - by Eurobasket News

Marko Keselj (206-SF-88, agency: Beo Basket) could become a new member of Anadolu Efes soon. According to Turkish media, two sides are close to agree 1+1 year deal. Eurohoops reported that Keselj should earn 600k euros for the first year and 800k euros for the second one. Recently, Valencia and Spartak St. Petersburg showed interest for the player. Marko Keselj spent last two seasons with Olympiakos. In the latest one they won Euroleague and Greek league titles. The Serbian National Team forward had 3.9 ppg and 2 rpg in 14 Euroleague games. He also added 5.8 ppg and 2.5 rpg for 26 appearances in domestic championship. In 2011, the Reds won Greek Cup. Before Olympiakos, Marko Keselj played two years for Crvena Zvezda. In the past, he also was a member of Koln 99ers, Girona, OKK Beograd and Avala Ada. In 2007 with Girona Keselj won FIBA EuroCup title. He is active member of the Serbian National Team since 2010. Keselj averaged 11.1 points and 3.1 rebounds for 9 games at FIBA World Championship in Turkey two years ago, while Serbia reached Semifinals. Last summer in Lithuania the player had 9.1 ppg and 3.5 rpg for 11 appearances. This summer Keselj averages 4.6 points and 3 rebounds after 7 games in 2013 EuroBasket Qualifications.


Crvena Zvezda inks 1-year deal with DeMarcus Nelson - by Eurobasket News

DeMarcus Nelson (6'3''-G-85, college: Duke) signed a 1-year deal with Crvena Zvezda. The American combo guard finished last season with French Cholet averaging 13.7 points, 3.8 rebounds and 3.6 assists for 30 games in ProA. He started the season with Ukrainian Donetsk. There Nelson registered 10.6 ppg, 4.4 rpg and 2.5 apg for 12 games in domestic championship. DeMarcus Nelson played for Cholet also in 2010/11. He had 9.2 ppg and 3.3 rpg for 10 Euroleague games that season. The team was French SuperCup winner. In 2009/10 the player averaged 8.9 points and 3.7 rebounds for 30 SerieA games with Italian Air Avelino. He also has experience from the NBA, D-Leaue and Zagreb. With Austin Toros De Marcus Nelson was the fifth scorer of D-League with 23 ppg for 11 games in 2008/09. That season he also appeared 13 times with the NBA team Golden State Warriots collecting 4.1 ppg and 1.8 rpg. DeMarcus Nelson graduated four years ago at Duke University and was team captain. He had 14.5 ppg, 5.8 rpg and 2.9 apg in 34 games as a senior.


Partizan outplays MZT Skopje in preseason game - by Eurobasket News

Partizan - MZT Skopje 81-69

Partizan and MZT Skopje played a friendly game on Sunday. Partizan was the host of this meeting and celebrated 81-69 victory. Rookie Drew Gordon (205-F-90, college: N.Mexico) top-scored for the Serbian powerhouse with 16 points and Djordje Gagic (210-C-90, agency: Interperformances) added 14 pts to this victory. Torey Thomas (180-PG-85, college: Holy Cross) delivered 11 points in his debut and Branislav Djekic (207-F/C-91, agency: Beo Basket) was the last one in double digits with 10 pts. In defeat, Uros Nikolic (207-F/C-87) shined with 26 points and he is expected to be one of the key players in MZT Skopje this season. Visitors didn't have anyone else with double digits as Cade Davis (197-F/G-88, college: Oklahoma), Igor Mijajlovic (192-PG-84, agency: Global Sports Plaza) and Damjan Stojanovski (195-SG-87) stopped to 7 pts each. Third quarter was the crucial one in this game. Teams were tied at 39-39 at the halftime, after what Drew Gordon and his teammates made 24-16 for the next ten minutes. MZT was not able to reply and Partizan made 18-14 in Q4 for comfortable victory in this meeting. MZT Skopje will play in Adriatic league next season.

Partizan: Uros Nikolic 26, Cade Davis 7, Igor Mijajlovic 7, Damjan Stojanovski 7
MZT Skopje: Drew Gordon 16, Djordje Gagic 14, Torey Thomas 11, Branislav Djekic 10


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  SLOVAKIA   


McNeal continues his career in Svit - by Michal Duchovic

On friday has BK Iskra Svit announced, that they have signed Tyronne McNeal (211-C-87, college: Miami Dade CC). McNeal has played during his pro carrer in Canada, Costa Rica, France and Portugal. In 2010 he was participating in Eurobasket Summer League in Las Vegas. Last season he started in french team BC Montbrison, but he moved to Portugal. Tyronne continued season in Sampaense Basket, where he was member of starting five. He started in 14 games with average of 4.4ppg, 6.1rpg. McNeal has already played on tournament in Spisska Nova Ves.


Lehman joining Levice - by Michal Duchovic

The next player who will be playing for Astrum Levice is Filip Lehman (198-F-87) from Slovakia. Filip has stared his basketball career in BBK IVes Brno, where he played 9 games with average of 1.4ppg, 1.2rpg. After that he played two seasons for MBK Rieker Komarno. But the most remarkable in his career where last three years spended in BK SPU Bemaco Nitra. With BK SPU Bemaco Nitra he has won Slovakian Cup and also he participated in Eurochallenge Cup. Last season he was a member in 35 games where here notched 3.1 points and 3.3 rebound per game. Lehman si joining Astrum Levice as a replacement for Martin Sykora (193-G/F-81), who has not extend his contract with Astrum Levice.


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  SLOVENIA   


Elektra announces David Collins, Simo Atanackovic and Drago Brcina - by Rado Markovic Hribernik

KK Elektra Sostanj announced signing of three new players for the upcoming season, David Collins (213-C-85, college: Bradley), Simo Atanackovic (206-F-90) and Drago Brcina (203-F/C-87).

David Collins has already experienced slovenian basketball, playing for Zlatorog Lasko in 2009/10 season. He will fill the gap in the center position after the departure of Salih Nuhanovic (209-C-82).

Simo Atanackovic (206-F-90) is expected to be a huge reinforcement fot the club from Sostanj, as he has played in the Adriatic league in previous season with Zlatorog Lasko, averaging 3.5 points and 2.4 rebounds per game.

The last newcomer Drago Brcina (203-F/C-87) came from Slovenian Division II., where he played for Terme Olimia Podcetrtek and averaged 8.3 points, 2.9 rebounds and 0.8 assists per game. He also played for GD Hrastnik Zasavlje, KK Litija, Rogla Zrece, Rogaska Crystal and Zlatorog Lasko.



Union Olimpija's pre-season tournament in Italy - by Matej Bergant

Slovenia's only Euroleague club Union Olimpija Ljubljana will play a pre-season tournament called Torneo Citt di Cagliari in Italy next week. The team will make a trip to Sardinia, where they will face giants of Euroleague basketball CSKA Moscow, Olympiacos Pireus, Montepaschi Siena, Fenerbahce Ulker and home team of Sassari. Union Olimpija is expected to play Montepaschi Siena on 14th and Sassari on 15th.


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  SPAIN   


Uros Tripkovic joins Valladolid - by Eurobasket News

Valladolid have reportedly agreed on terms of contract with Uros Tripkovic (197-G-86). The guard was also on radar of Virtus Bologna but opted to continue his career in Spain. Last season Uros Tripkovic spent in Unicaja Malaga. The Serb posted 8.1 points, 1.5 rebounds and 1.1 assists per game in Euroleague. He also notched 6.5 points per game in ACB. Previously Uros Tripkovic played for Partizan Belgrade and Joventut Badalona. Eurobasket.com named Uros Tripkovic All-Serbia and Montenegro Leage Guard of the Year in 2006. He also made it into All-Serbian League 1st Team in 2009. Uros Tripkovic was also named into All-Adriatic League 2nd Team in 2006. He has been the member of Serbian National Team since 2008.


Victor Perez joins Oviedo - by Eurobasket News

Victor Perez (193-G/F-82) agreed on terms of contract with Oviedo. The forward spent the last season with Navarra. He notched 4.6 points and 1.3 boards per game in LEB Gold. Previously the forward had spells for Tijola, Canasta Jerez Unibasket, Calpe Aguas, Gandia, Aguas Valencia-Expobar.


Alberto Miguel signs with Ford Burgos - by Eurobasket News

Alberto Miguel (188-G-77) signed a short-term deal with Ford Burgos. The contract is meant for two-months. Alberto Miguel is meant to replace injured Isaac Lopez (196-F/G-78). Alberto Miguel is not new to Ford Burgos. He played for the team in 2009/11 seasons. He tallied then 7.0 points, 1.8 rebounds and 1.2 assists per appearance. Last season Alberto Miguel started with Club Deportivo Estela Santander. He notched 14.5 points, 3.3 rebounds, 2.4 assists and 1.7 steals per game. Later Alberto Miguel moved to Aquas Club Ourense. His stats read 10.0 points, 2.4 rebounds and 1.3 assists per game in LEB Silver. Previously Alberto Miguel had spells for Lleida, Menorca, Cantabria.


Unicaja is the winner of 2012 Copa Andalucia - by Eurobasket News

Unicaja - Cajasol 65-53

Unicaja won 2012 Copa Andalucia. They handed 65-53 loss to Cajasol on Sunday to grab this preseason trophy. The Malaga team exploded after the breather to secure the victory. James Gist (205-F-86) was on fire with 20 points and he was the only player with double digits in scoring for Unicaja. Former Cajasol players Txemi Urtasun (193-G-84, agency: Interperformances) and Earl Calloway (191-G-83, college: Indiana) netted 8 points each, while Conde and Augusto Cesar Lima (206-C-91) had 7 pts apiece. In defeat, Brian Asbury (200-SF-86, college: Miami, FL) was better than the others with 16 points. Luka Bogdanovic (210-F-85, agency: Beo Basket) scored 8, while John Holland (195-G/F-88, college: Boston U.) and Bradley Buckman (203-F-84, college: Texas) stopped to 7 pts. Cajasol was up by 2 points after opening ten minutes and increased its lead to 26-30 at the halftime. Unicaja intensified defense in Q3 limiting its rival to just 5 points in this period. At the other side, James Gist and his teammates drained 18 for 9-point lead with ten minutes to go. Unicaja was better in Q4 as well (21-18) for comfortable 65-53 victory at the end.

Unicaja: James Gist 20, Txemi Urtasun 8, Earl Calloway 8, Conde 7, Augusto Cesar Lima 7
Cajasol: Brian Asbury 16, Luka Bogdanovic 8, John Holland 7, Bradley Buckman 7


Serhiy Lishchuk lifts Valencia to 75-74 win over Manresa - by Eurobasket News

Valencia Basket continues with victories this pre-season. On Saturday, Valencia downed FC Barcelona Regal 68-66 and yesterday they grabbed 75-74 win over Assignia Manresa. It means that Valencia won Torneo iCroms de la Festa Major de Sabadell. Serhiy Lishchuk (210-C/F-82, agency: Beo Basket) exploded on Sunday against Manresa scoring 24 points. Justin Doellman (206-F-85, college: Xavier) had 15 points, Florent Pietrus (202-F-81) posted 11 and Rafa Martinez added 9 points. Troy DeVries (193-G-82, college: N.Mexico) answered with 17 points in loss and Oliver Arteaga (211-C-83) netted 14. Rasmus Larsen (212-C-94) was third scorer in Manresa with 9 points. Quarters: 19-18, 19-23, 17-14, 19-20.
On Saturday, Thomas Kelati (195-G/F-82, agency: Beo Basket, college: Washington St.) was a key player in victory with 18 points. Rodrigo San Miguel (190-G-85) and Serhiy Lishchuk scored 11 points each, while Stefan Markovic and Vitor Faverani (211-C-88) added 8 points apiece. In Barca, Erazem Lorbek (209-F/C-84, college: Michigan St.) scored 15 points and Pete Mickeal (199-F-78, college: Cincinnati) had 12. Australian big guy Nathan Jawai (208-F/C-86, college: Midland CC) nailed 11 pts. Valencia had better start making 17-10 lead after ten minutes. Barca won the second period 20-19 and continued with 16-12 after the breather. Barca was 56-51 up with 4 minutes remaining in the game, but than Thomas Kelati and his teammates made 13-6 run and later jumped to 68-64, what was too much for Barca.


Valladolid signs Eduardo Ruiz - by Eurobasket News

Valladolid added another player for the upcoming season. It is Spanish power forward/center Eduardo Ruiz (205-F/C-83). He arrives to the club from CB Granada. Ruiz appeared 33 times in Liga Endesa last season averaging 5.3 points and 3.3 rebounds. He already was a member of Valladolid in 2010/11, but had very limited playing time. In 14 games the big guy had only 1.4 ppg. Before Valladolid, Eduardo Ruiz spent one year with LAN Mobel. They competed in EBA, where Ruiz had 8.4 ppg and 7.2 rpg. In the past, he played for Bruesa, Estudiantes II and Tarragona. In 2009, he won the LEB Bronze title and Cup with Alerta Cantabria. In 2006, Ruiz won LEB1 title with Bruesa.


Unicaja wants Bojan Bogdanovic from Fenerbahce Ulker - by Eurobasket News

Unicaja would like to have Bojan Bogdanovic (203-SG-89) in the roster. Head Coach of Unicaja Jasmin Repesa said for local media that Bogdanovic would be the perfect player for them. However, he has a valid deal with Fenerbahce Ulker and it is expected that two teams will start talking soon. Unicaja wants to replace injured Sergi Vidal (198-F/G-81).
Bojan Bogdanovic signed with Fener last summer. He had 13.6 ppg, 2.4 rpg and 1.8 apg for 32 games in Turkey. Bogdanovic was named to Eurobasket.com All-Turkish League 2nd Team -12 and also to Eurobasket.com Turkish League All-Bosmans Team. In Euroleague he added 13 ppg and 2.2 rpg. Before Fener, Bojan Bogdanovic played for Cibona, Real Madrid and Zrinjski. He is active member of the Croatian National Team since 2010. The player currently averages 16.1 points in 2013 EuroBasket Qualifications. Head Coach of Team Croatia is Jasmin Repesa.


Real Madrid wins Sportquarters Series in Guadalajara - by Eurobasket News

Real Madrid outplayed Asefa Estudiantes 78-75 in the final game of Sportquarters Series in Guadalajara. Nikola Mirotic (207-F/C-91) once again was a key player in victory scoring 21 points. Sergio Rodriguez (191-PG-86) and Carlos Suarez (202-F-86, agency: Court Side) netted 10 and 9 points respectively. For the Students, Carl English (192-G-81, college: Hawaii) and Tariq Kirksay (199-F-79, college: Iona) delivered 15 points each. Quarters: 23-21, 18-21, 18-16, 19-17.
In the game for third place UCAM Murcia grabbed 77-75 victory against Blusens Monbus. Marcus Lewis (203-F/C-86, college: ORU) stepped up for Murcia with 14 points and their second scorer was Joe Ragland (182-G-89, college: Wichita St.) with 10 pts. Juan Ignacio Jasen (196-F-85) helped with 9 pts. In defeat, Levon Kendall (209-F-84, college: Pittsburgh) was better than the others with 19 points. Rafael Freire (188-PG-92) and Salah Mejri (217-C-86) posted 18 and 12 pts respectively. Quarters: 20-13, 22-18, 17-18, 18-26.


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  SYRIA   


Michel Maadanly renews with FOSHAN LONG LIONS - by Ahmad Madwar

Michel Maadanly (194-G-81) the Syrian National team player will play in China with Foshan club in his 2nd year with the team .. Micho already arrived to China and he started the practise with the team under the leadership of new American coach for the team Joe Whelton ..
he had good average last season : 27 games: 21.6ppg, 6.5rpg, 3.6apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 50.3%, 3PT: 37.2%, FT: 77.3%
this is Micho Awards/Achievements:
Syrian National Team -01, 04-07, 10-11-12
Asian Championships -01 (Semifinals)
Syrian League Champion -04, 07, 08, 09, 11
Syrian Cup Finalist -04
Syrian Cup Winner -05, 07, 09
West Asian Games -05 (bronze)
Asia-Basket.com All-Syrian League Guard of the Year -06, 09, 11
Asia-Basket.com All-Syrian League Domestic Player of the Year -06, 09, 11
Asia-Basket.com All-Syrian League 1st Team -06, 09, 11
Asia-Basket.com Syrian League All-Domestic Players Team -06, 09, 10, 11
Syrian League Regular Season Champion -06, 07, 09, 10, 11
Syrian League Finalist -06, 10
Asian Club Championships -03 (Champion), 04, 06 (Finalist), 07 (Finalist + Top Scorer)
Asia-Basket.com Asian Club Championships 1st Team -06, 07
Asian Games in Doha -06
Asia-Basket.com All-Syrian League Player of the Year -09, 11
Aleppo International Tournament Champion -09
Asia-Basket.com All-Syrian League 2nd Team -10
WABA Club Championships -11 (Finalist)
West Asia Basketball Championships in Duhok (Iraq) -11 (Bronze)
Saudi Arabian League Champion -12


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  TURKEY   


Best Balikesir adds rookie Malcolm Kirkland for 2012/13 - by Eurobasket News

Malcolm Kirkland (203-F/C) is set to start his professional basketball career. The American power forward/center penned a 1-year deal with Best Balikesir. They will compete in Turkish second division for men - TB2L. Kirkland is a product of Arkansas State University, where he graduated few months ago. The player had 12.1 ppg and 6.2 rpg for his school in 34 games as a senior. Arkansas State reached Sun Belt Tournament Semifinals, while Kirkland was named to All-Sun Belt 3rd Team -12. As a junior Malcolm Kirkland had much lower numbers. For 32 games he registered 4.8 ppg and 3.6 rpg. Arkansas State was Sun Belt West Division regular season co-champion that year. Kirkland transferred to Arkansas State in 2009 from the Oklahoma State University. He was redshirted in 2009/10 season due to NCAA transfer rules.


Unicaja wants Bojan Bogdanovic from Fenerbahce Ulker - by Eurobasket News

Unicaja would like to have Bojan Bogdanovic (203-SG-89) in the roster. Head Coach of Unicaja Jasmin Repesa said for local media that Bogdanovic would be the perfect player for them. However, he has a valid deal with Fenerbahce Ulker and it is expected that two teams will start talking soon. Unicaja wants to replace injured Sergi Vidal (198-F/G-81).
Bojan Bogdanovic signed with Fener last summer. He had 13.6 ppg, 2.4 rpg and 1.8 apg for 32 games in Turkey. Bogdanovic was named to Eurobasket.com All-Turkish League 2nd Team -12 and also to Eurobasket.com Turkish League All-Bosmans Team. In Euroleague he added 13 ppg and 2.2 rpg. Before Fener, Bojan Bogdanovic played for Cibona, Real Madrid and Zrinjski. He is active member of the Croatian National Team since 2010. The player currently averages 16.1 points in 2013 EuroBasket Qualifications. Head Coach of Team Croatia is Jasmin Repesa.


Anadolu Efes reportedly wants to sign Marko Keselj - by Eurobasket News

Marko Keselj (206-SF-88, agency: Beo Basket) could become a new member of Anadolu Efes soon. According to Turkish media, two sides are close to agree 1+1 year deal. Eurohoops reported that Keselj should earn 600k euros for the first year and 800k euros for the second one. Recently, Valencia and Spartak St. Petersburg showed interest for the player. Marko Keselj spent last two seasons with Olympiakos. In the latest one they won Euroleague and Greek league titles. The Serbian National Team forward had 3.9 ppg and 2 rpg in 14 Euroleague games. He also added 5.8 ppg and 2.5 rpg for 26 appearances in domestic championship. In 2011, the Reds won Greek Cup. Before Olympiakos, Marko Keselj played two years for Crvena Zvezda. In the past, he also was a member of Koln 99ers, Girona, OKK Beograd and Avala Ada. In 2007 with Girona Keselj won FIBA EuroCup title. He is active member of the Serbian National Team since 2010. Keselj averaged 11.1 points and 3.1 rebounds for 9 games at FIBA World Championship in Turkey two years ago, while Serbia reached Semifinals. Last summer in Lithuania the player had 9.1 ppg and 3.5 rpg for 11 appearances. This summer Keselj averages 4.6 points and 3 rebounds after 7 games in 2013 EuroBasket Qualifications.


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  UBA   

Standings

UBA Standings
Eastern
 1. Cambridge C. 0-0 
 2. Cincinnati S. 0-0 
 3. Dayton K. 0-0 
 4. Lancaster A. 0-0 
 5. Ohio H.G. 0-0 
Southern
 1. Atlanta T. 0-0 
 2. Georgia P. 0-0 
 3. Georgia S. 0-0 
 4. GIE Maile M. 0-0 
 5. S.Generals 0-0 
Western
 1. Cleveland H. 0-0 
 2. Dallas G. 0-0 
 3. Houston E. 0-0 
 4. LoneStar S. 0-0 
 5. N.Texas F. 0-0 
 6. Texas C. 0-0 
Dleague
 1. Atlanta A. 0-0 
 2. Austin K. 0-0 
 3. DFW Warriors 0-0 
 4. Queen City G. 0-0 


Georgia PRIME Select DeAndre Bray First in 2012 UBA Expansion Draft - by David Walls


David Walls Reports
ATLANTA, GA

September 10, 2012 The UBA has announced its first pick in the 2012 expansion draft. The draft is set for new teams that enter the league and its based to help build the newly developed team. What better way to build a team than with the UBAs top point guard. The Georgia PRIME made 5-foot 6 inch guard DeAndre "Lil D" Bray (5'6''-G-85, agency: Gamble Sports Management, college: Jacksonville St.) the first of their 10 selections in todays 2012 UBA League Expansion Draft. The PRIME have obtained the rights to each of the 10 players they drafted and will submit their list in order of preference to the UBA League Office to pursue contracts.

Bray, 25, played in 28 games with the Atlanta Titans during the 2011-12 campaign, averaging 12.4 points and 11.5 assists per game. In second seasons in the UBA, Bray has accumulated 600 points, and his 600 assists rank 18th and 1st, respectively, in league history.

A product of Jacksonville State, Bray established a personal season high with 29 points and 9 assists in a 103-102 victory against the Cincinnati Slam in the UBA Semi Finals. Two weeks earlier, he dished out 15 against the GIE Maile Matrix.

Bray was the tallest player available in the expansion draft, but he has the biggest heart.

We definitely targeted a point guard in the expansion draft, PRIME Head Coach and Director of Basketball Operations Michael Davis said. Being a leader is a quality you cant teach. We also wanted to gain as much UBA experience as possible and felt that the selection of Bray certainly fulfilled both goals.

Bray was honored by Usbasket.com as the UBA Point Guard of the Year along with All-United States Team honors. After a great playoff run Bray was selected to the UBAs All-Playoff 1st Team.

Aside from the selection of Bray, the PRIME are now scouting the free agent market to draft in the up in coming UBA draft (November 3, 2012). The PRIME have VSU stand out Mike Crain (6'2''-G-84, college: Valdosta St.) on their draft board.



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  UBL   

Standings

UBL 1.Arkansas B. Standings
Northern Division
 1. Oklahoma I. 5-1 
 2. Arkansas W. 3-3 
 3. Tulsa T. 0-0 
 4. Z*Springfield T. 0-0 
Southern Division
 1. Texas W. 7-1 
 2. Z*Metro L. 0-0 
 3. Mississippi T. 0-6 
Austin Rhythm Standings



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  UGANDA   


Cheeks pro career could start at Aget Imola - by Eurobasket News

Aget Service Imola (Lega2) is about to sign 21-year old USA guard Dominic Cheek (198-91). He just graduated Villanova (NCAA). In 32 games last season he averaged 12.5ppg, 3.9rpg, 1.3apg and 1.0spg. Cheeks team was regular season runner-up in Big East in 2010. He represented USA at the FIBA Americas U18 Championships in Formosa (Argentina) this year. Cheeks stats at this event were 5 games: 5.2ppg, 2.4rpg, FGP-3 (70.0%), 3PT: 17.6%, FT: 50.0%. He was also a member of USA U19 national team in 2009. So his pro career will start in Italy.

By Eurobasket Data Center


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  UKRAINE   


Lietuvos Rytas topple Budivelnyk at Garastas Cup - by Eurobasket News

Lietuvos Rytas - Budivelnyk 82:68

Lietuvos Rytas celebrated yet another win at the Garastas Cup. They knocked down Ukrainian Budivelnyk. Renaldas Seibutis (198-SG-85) scored 16 points to lead the Vilnius team. Budivelnyk suffered the third loss in a row.
Lietuvos Rytas jumped to a narrow 19:17 lead after ten minutes. The Lithuanian team stretched the lead in the second frame. They accounted for a 12-point halftime advantage 48:36. Lietuvos Rytas kept Budivelnyk at bay throughout the third qauarter. They entered the fourth stanza up by 14 points. The teams traded baskets throughout the final period as Lietuvos Rytas cruised to the victory. Dejan Ivanov (205-F/C-86, agency: Beo Basket) accounted for 12 points, while Janis Blums (191-SG-82) added 10 points for the winners. Malcolm Delaney (191-G-89, college: Virginia Tech) responded with 24 points for Budivelnyk. Leo Lyons (206-F-87, college: Missouri) had 22 points and 12 rebounds in the loss.

Lietuvos Rytas: Renaldas Seibutis 16, Dejan Ivanov 12, Janis Blums 10
Budivelnyk: Malcolm Delaney 24, Leo Lyons 22+12 boards


Lokomotiv Kuban prevail against Dnipro at Garastas Cup - by Eurobasket News

Lokomotiv Kuban - Dnipro 100:91

Lokomotiv Kuban stayed undefeated at the Garastas Cup in Lithuania. They knocked down Dnipro yesterday. Aleks Maric (211-C-84, college: Nebraska) posted 21 points and 8 rebounds to lead the winners. Lokomotiv Kuban will now face Lietuvos Rytas for the trophy.
Lokomotiv Kuban stormed into the game. They unleashed 31 points in the opening ten minutes to ensure a 15-point lead. Dnipro slowed their opponents down a bit in the second frame. The Ukrainian team trailed by 15 points at halftime 38:43. Dnipro started to claw their way back into the game in the third frame. They cut the deficit by 8 points in the third term. The Ukrainain team finally narrowed the gap at 4-point mark but Lokomotiv Kuban increased the tempo late in the game and rolled to the victory at the end. Nikita Shabalkin (205-F-86) and Valery Likhodey (205-F-86) provided 15 points each for Lokomotiv. Nick Calathes (198-G-89, college: Florida) and Maksim Sheleketo (204-F-87) had 13 points apiece in the victory.


Kryvbasbasket prevail against Triumph in test game - by Eurobasket News

Kryvbasbasket - Triumph 93:86

Kryvbasbasket clinched another pre-season win. They faced Triumph Lyubertsy in Lithuania and celebrated another success. Winsome Frazier (193-F/G-82, college: Mississippi St.) stepped up with 27 points to lead the Kryvyi Rih team.
Triumph surged ahead in the starting quarter. The Russian team accumulated a 25:21 lead after ten minutes. They maintained the lead throughout the second period. Triumph secured a 50:42 halftime advantage. Kryvbasbasket however turned things around in the third quarter. They Ukrainian team went on a 27:17 rally to secure a 2-point lead into the fourth frame. Kryvbasbasket outscored Triumph in the fourth quarter and sealed the victory. Pierce Caldwell (191-G-88, agency: Alti Sport, college: Incarnate Word) finished with 23 points, while Vitali Malchevskiy (204-F-87) added 14 points for the winners. Tywain McKee (188-PG-86, college: Coppin St.) responded with 26 points for Triumph. Kyle Landry (207-C/F-86, college: N.Arizona) and Tasmin Mitchell (201-F-86, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav, college: LSU) accounted for 16 points each in the loss.

Kryvbasbasket: Winsome Frazier 27 Pierce Caldwell 23, Vitali Malchevskiy 14
Triumph: Tywain McKee 26, Kyle Landry 16, Tasmin Mitchell 16


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  UNITED KINGDOM   

Standings - BBL

BBL Standings
 1. Cheshire Jets 0-0 
 2. Durham W. 0-0 
 3. Glasgow Rocks 0-0 
 4. Leicester R. 0-0 
 5. Manchester G. 0-0 
 6. Mersey Tigers 0-0 
 7. MK Lions 0-0 
 8. Newcastle E. 0-0 
 9. Plymouth R. 0-0 
 10. Sheffield S. 0-0 
 11. Surrey Heat 0-0 
 12. Worcester W. 0-0 

Regular Season: Round 1

Sep. 21: Manchester G. - MK Lions
Sep. 21: Newcastle E. - Glasgow Rocks
Sep. 21: Sheffield S. - E.London R.
Sep. 22: Guildford Heat - Mersey Tigers
Sep. 22: Leicester R. - Plymouth R.
Sep. 22: Worcester W. - Durham W.
Sep. 23: Cheshire Jets - Manchester G.
Sep. 23: Durham W. - Glasgow Rocks
Sep. 23: MK Lions - Newcastle E.


Legacy Lives On For London - by Paul Nilsen

The London Lions have secured the signings of Guard Perry Lawson (188-G-82, college: S.Georgia Tech CC) and Centre Laurent Irish (196-F-79, college: Embry Riddle) both local Hackney residents as a sign of Legacy continuing post Olympics.

Coach Vince Macaulay has added strength to his squad, Hackney Community College graduate, 6'2", Perry Lawson is well travelled having also attended South Georgia Tech in the United States before coming to the BBL. In the BBL he was part of the Newcastle Eagles clean sweep in 2006 winning every title up for grabs.

In fact Lawson has won 10 BBL titles in his career, two further titles at Newcastle he then won the Championship, Trophy and Playoff Title with the Mersey Tigers in 2010.

A member of the GB squad in 2006, Lawson has steadily become Mr Reliable on the basketball floor.

Coach Macaulay had this to say, "This is what the Legacy is about, Perry played his basketball within a stone's throw of the Copper Box and he cannot wait to help us get there, teaming him up with Nuno at the guard spots will bring us great rewards, apart from anything Perry is a winner, he stepped down from the BBL last year due to other commitments yet still helped the NASSA team in Div 3 have a clean sweep, in fact if I'm not mistaken they only lost one game!"

In 6'7", Laurent Irish, Macaulay is re-united with a player who played in Milton Keynes in 2006, Irish, a graduate of Embry Riddle College in Florida, since playing in the UK, Irish went off to play in Italy, playing two years at Benevento and the last two seasons at Pamphill Roma.

"Now this is Legacy, our support from the GLL Foundation and the London Legacy Group is all about what happens going forward" said Macaulay, " Born and raised in Forest Gate as he is, I am a huge fan of Laurent's, when we talk about Legacy we always talk about Joe White, Laurent's uncle who passed away a few years ago, but in the London area Joe inspired a lot of people, and Laurent was one of them, he has gone on himself to inspire many young people here and in Europe, I am delighted to have his veteran selflessness on the team, we have a lot of young bucks about and someone needs to calm them down!

The first chance for London to see all the Lions in action will be on Saturday 8th September at 8pm when the team plays a pre-season friendly against Team USA Select. Prior to the game the USA B Team will face the Essex Leopards at 6pm, Tickets are available at the door. Both games will be played at the Lions home of Crystal Palace National Sports Centre.


Familiar Faces Back In Durham - by Paul Nilsen

The Durham Wildcats are delighted to confirm that a number of old faces have returned to the roster for the 2012/13 season.

Sam Attah (193-G-84), who memorably scored the crucial points to beat Cheshire Jets last November in the Wildcats first BBL victory, will return to the squad alongside Sam Chambers (198-F-90), Max Fowler and Jordan Bohannon (190-G-90).

Head Coach, Dave Elderkin, was clearly delighted to have some of last years team returning:

'Whilst we will be welcoming a lot of new faces to the squad, it is great that some of our developing players are returning to the club. Odiba and Sam showed some real promise last year and I expect them to play a big role this time around. Max and Jordan probably won't be starting matches but I also think they have an important role to play this season.'

Chairman Quentin Sloper added:

'The staff have been working hard throughout the summer to pull together a squad that we believe will be competitive. I think we are nearly there now and expect to be able to announce our full squad in the next two to three days. I'm also delighted to be able to confirm that we are expecting to welcome a couple more faces back from last season as well - both were crowd favourites so I am hoping the fans will be pleased. I also think they will take to the new guys very quickly.'


Lithuanian Giant Takes Centre Stage At Wolves - by Paul Nilsen

Worcester Wolves have announced the capture of a huge and highly-experienced Lithuanian centre to be the man in the middle for their upcoming campaign in the British Basketball League.

32-year-old Arturas Masiulis (210-C-80) stands 6 foot 11 inches and is a player that Wolves' Director of Basketball Paul James (pictured) knows well from his time in charge of the Guildford Heat when they took part in the ULEB Cup. He is delighted to have Masiulis on board, saying: "Arturas came over to Guildford when he played for Siauliai, and gave my guys all sorts of matchup problems. Aside from that, he has played at a high level in European competitions throughout his career."

Masiulis has a host of Baltic teams on his resume, including Pieno Zvaigzdes, a former club of his countryman, popular Wolves forward Arnas Kazlauskas. In his last season in Lithuania, with Kedainiai, he averaged 13 points a game as well as pulling down an average of 5 rebounds.

"It's great that the success that we are having at the Wolves is now attracting this calibre of player to the city." added James.

Wolves will open the new season against Durham Wildcats on Saturday 22 September (tip off 7pm) at the University of Worcester Sports Centre.

The club is hopeful of announcing another new signing, a young British forward, within the next couple of days.


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  URUGUAY   

Standings - LUB

LUB Standings
 1. Aguada 0-0 
 2. Bigua 0-0 
 3. Bohemios 0-0 
 4. Cordon 0-0 
 5. Defensor 0-0 
 6. Hebraica 0-0 
 7. Larre Borges 0-0 
 8. Malvin 0-0 
 9. Montevideo 0-0 
 10. Nacional 0-0 
 11. Olimpia 0-0 
 12. Sayago 0-0 
 13. Tabare 0-0 
 14. Trouville 0-0 
 15. Un.Atletica 0-0 
 16. Welcome 0-0 



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  VENEZUELA   

Standings - LNB

LNB Standings
Central-East
 1. Guacharos 7-1 
 2. Estudiantes 4-2 
 3. Tiburones 3-1 
 4. Rojos de Sucre 2-4 
 5. Atleticos UCV 0-8 
Central-West
 1. Bravos 6-2 
 2. Cent.Apure 6-2 
 3. Aduaneros 4-4 
 4. Generales 3-5 
 5. Lanc.Cojedes 1-7 

Regular Season: Round 5

Sep. 7: Bravos - Aduaneros 90-68
Sep. 8: Bravos - Aduaneros 86-80
Sep. 7: Atleticos UCV - Rojos de Sucre 83-89
Sep. 7: Generales - Cent.Apure 75-82
Sep. 7: Lanc.Cojedes - Guacharos 75-78
Sep. 8: Generales - Cent.Apure 75-70
Sep. 8: Lanc.Cojedes - Guacharos 74-83
Sep. 8: Atleticos UCV - Rojos de Sucre 103-106
Sep. 7: Tiburones - Estudiantes
Sep. 8: Tiburones - Estudiantes



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  VTB UNITED LEAGUE   


PGE Turow bring in Ivan Opacak - by Eurobasket News

PGE Turow bolstered their squad. They agreed on terms of contract with Ivan Opacak (201-SG-80, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group). The forward spent the previous season in Croatia. He played for Cedevita. Ivan Opacak notched 7.7 points and 2.0 rebounds per game in A1 League. In EuroCup Ivan Opacak delivered 4.0 points and 2.6 rebounds per appearance. The forward also tallied 6.5 points and 1.6 rebounds per game in Adriatic League. Ivan Opacak was named Eurobasket.com All-Croatian A1 League Forward of the Year. Previously the forward had stints in Bosnia, Spain and Switzerland. He made it into All-Bosnia and Herzegovina League 1st Team in 2006. In 2011 Ivan Opacak was named into All-Bosnia and Herzegovina League 2nd Team. He has been the member of Bosnia and Herzegovina National Team since 1998.



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Women News


Celik outplays Alba Iulia to win 'Amna Fazlic Tournament' - by Eurobasket News

Celik is the winner of third memorial 'Amna Fazlic Tournament' in Zenica. The reigning Bosnian champion outplayed Alba Iulia in the final game 68-64. Monika Veselovski (183-F-77) led the home squad with 18 points in this meeting, while Alma Kovacevic (186-F/C-83) helped with 13. Rada Vidovic (177-G-79) and Zvjezdana Gagic (169-G-81, agency: Global Sports Plaza) added 10 points each. In the loosing squad, Amanda Thompson (183-F-87, college: Oklahoma) and Rebecca Tobin (195-F-88, college: Arizona St.) delivered 15 and 13 points respectively. Ekaterina Abramzon (185-F-87) stopped to 10 points. In the Semifinals Celik eliminated Serbian team Jagodina. Alba Iulia downed Croatian Medvescak 49-58.
Third place in Zenica belongs to Medvescak, who was better than Jagodina 75-52. Nina Premasunac (186-F-92) was the leading player in victory with 17 points. Ana-Marija Begic (190-C-94) followed her with 12, while Iva Todoric (174-F-93) added 11 pts in this meeting. In Jagodina, Ivana Grubor (185-F/C-84) better than the others with 16 points. Djordjevic stopped to 10.


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  CROATIA   


Medvescak beats Jagodina, takes third place at 'Amna Fazlic Tournament' in Zenica - by Eurobasket News

Croatian squad Medvescak won third place at 'Amna Fazlic Tournament' in Zenica. It was third edition of this memorial. In the battle for position No.3 Medvescak outplayed Serbian team Jagodina 75-52. Nina Premasunac (186-F-92) was the leading player in victory with 17 points. Ana-Marija Begic (190-C-94) followed her with 12, while Iva Todoric (174-F-93) added 11 pts in this meeting. In Jagodina, Ivana Grubor (185-F/C-84) was better than the others with 16 points. Djordjevic stopped to 10. In the first game in Zenica Medvescak failed to Alba Iulia. The Romanian squad celebrated 58-49 victory in this meeting.
The host Celik is the winner of Amna Fazlic Tournament. They outplayed Alba Iulia 68-64 in the final. Monika Veselovski (183-F-77) top-scored for the winners with 18 points.


Novi Zagreb downs Wasserburg 91-84 to win preseason tournament - by Eurobasket News

Novi Zagreb is the winner of preseason tournament in Wasserburg. The Euroleague newcomer handed 91-84 loss to TSV Wasserburg in the final game. Sandra Mandir (177-G-77) was a key player for Croatians with 28 points. Mirna Mazic (188-F-85, college: Richmond) was their second scorer with 15 pts and Matea Vrdoljak (186-F-85) added one less. In defeat, Anne Breitreiner (183-G/F-84, agency: LBM Management) shined with 25 points and Emma Cannon (188-F, college: Cent.Florida) netted 13 pts. Fikiel stopped to 12 points in this defeat. Quarters: 23-21, 43-33, 74-54, 91-84.
In the Semifinals, Novi Zagreb grabbed 76-75 thriller win against Heligirls Donau Ries. Sandra Mandir once again was the leading player in victory with 23 points. Matea Vrdoljak and Mirna Mazic scored 15 points apiece. Morgan Henderson (185-F-88, college: San Diego) replied with 19 points in defeat and Ferrer had 16 points. Quarters: 8-21, 39-34, 59-53, 76-75.


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  CZECH REPUBLIC   


Valosun Brno gain second place at Piestany tournament - by Eurobasket News

Valosun Brno participated at pre-season tournament in Pestany. The Czech team claimed the second position winning two of three games played.
Valosun Brno opened the tournament with the clash versus Good Angels. The Kosice team dominated from start to finish posting a 70:46 win. Petra Kulichova (198-C-84) scored 14 points for the winners. Valosun Brno responded with 12 points from Beata Adamcova (185-PF-93). Irena Borecka (176-G/F-80) finished with 9 points in the loss.
Valosun Brno recovered in the second round. They faced Russian Krasnoyanochka. The Czech team trailed by 5 points at halftime 27:32. But they recovered in the second half and eked out a 62:59 win. Eva Mrhalkova (175-F/G-88) netted 17 points to lead the charge.
Valosun Brno finished their campaign against Piestansky Cajky. The Czech team bruised the hosts 74:59. Valosun built a 38:26 halftime lead and never looked back en route to the victory. Eva Mrhalkova netted 21 points to lead the winners.


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  EUROLEAGUE   


Good Angels ink American PF Plenette Pierson - by Eurobasket News

Plenette Pierson (188-PF-81, college: Texas Tech) will continue her career in Slovakia. The American power forward penned a 1-year deal with reigning champions Good Angels Kosice. She is currently a member of the WNBA team New York Liberty. Pierson averages 12.4 points, 5.2 rebounds and 2.2 assists for 22 games. Last season she spent with Israeli squad Maccabi Bnot Ashdod. For 22 domestic league games the player averaged 15 points, 8 rebounds, 1.8 steals and 1.3 blocks. Maccabi Bnot Ashdod won the championship title and Plenette Pierson was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Israeli League Player of the Year -12. They also won the Cup trophy last season. In the past, Pierson played in Turkey, Poland, Russia and Italy. In 2007, she won first Israeli title and Cup with Elizur Ramla.


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  GERMANY   


Novi Zagreb downs Wasserburg 91-84 to win preseason tournament - by Eurobasket News

Novi Zagreb is the winner of preseason tournament in Wasserburg. The Euroleague newcomer handed 91-84 loss to TSV Wasserburg in the final game. Sandra Mandir (177-G-77) was a key player for Croatians with 28 points. Mirna Mazic (188-F-85, college: Richmond) was their second scorer with 15 pts and Matea Vrdoljak (186-F-85) added one less. In defeat, Anne Breitreiner (183-G/F-84, agency: LBM Management) shined with 25 points and Emma Cannon (188-F, college: Cent.Florida) netted 13 pts. Fikiel stopped to 12 points in this defeat. Quarters: 23-21, 43-33, 74-54, 91-84.
In the Semifinals, Novi Zagreb grabbed 76-75 thriller win against Heligirls Donau Ries. Sandra Mandir once again was the leading player in victory with 23 points. Matea Vrdoljak and Mirna Mazic scored 15 points apiece. Morgan Henderson (185-F-88, college: San Diego) replied with 19 points in defeat and Ferrer had 16 points. Quarters: 8-21, 39-34, 59-53, 76-75.


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  HOLLAND   

Standings - Women

Eredivisie Standings
 1. Binnenland 0-0 
 2. CTO 0-0 
 3. Den Helder 0-0 
 4. Grasshoppers 0-0 
 5. Lekdetec.nl 0-0 
 6. ProBuild Lions 0-0 

Regular Season: Round 1

Oct. 6: Lekdetec.nl - Den Helder
Oct. 6: Grasshoppers - Binnenland
Oct. 7: CTO - ProBuild Lions



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


ZTE NKK has signed Irina Mihailova - by Mate Papp

Irina Mihailova (191-F-81) has signed his contract with ZTE NKK. Mihailova arrives from Italian A1 team Bracco Geas Sesto San Giovanni. In Italy she averaged 7.4 points and 3.5 rebounds per game. Mihailova can play both in the power forward and in the center position. She has already played for her new club in the 2009/2010 season and was a top scorer. She is the second international player in the squad of Zalaegerszeg after the last week arrival of Alex Gensler. Irina Mihailova (191-F-81)


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


Elizur Ramla keeps Michal Epstein - by Eurobasket News

Elizur Ramla signed 1-year contract extension with forward Michal Epstein (180-F-81, college: Boston U.). Yesterday the team announced signings of American players Ashley Walker and Natasha Lacy. Epstein arrived to the club in February this year. She appeared 13 times in the league averaging 6.3 points and 1.9 rebounds. It was enough to get extension. Michal Epstein started last season with Maccabi Ramat Hen. There she registered 9 ppg and 4.2 rpg for 9 games. The forward played for Maccabi Ramat Hen from 2007. They won Israeli Cup together in 2009. Three years before that Michal Epstein won the championship title with Hapoel Tel-Aviv. The forward also has experience from Maccabi Ashdod, Boston University and Providence University. Epstein played for Israeli NT last summer at the EuroBasket in Poland.


Elitzur Ramla tab Natasha Lacy and Ashley Walker - by Eurobasket News

Elitzur Ramla bolstered their squad. They added Natasha Lacy (178-G-85, agency: Merit Sports, college: UTEP) and Ashley Walker (185-F/C-87, agency: Merit Sports, college: California).
Natasha Lacy is currently playing in the WNBA. The guard averages 3.9 points, 2.1 rebounds and 1.3 assists per game for the Washington Mystics. Last season she played in Turkey. Natasha Lacy was the member of Ceyhan Belediyespor squad. Her stats read 18.4 points, 7.3 rebounds, 7.5 assists and 3.3 steals per appearance. She participated at TKBL All-Star Game. Natasha Lacy is not new to Israel. The guard played for Maccabi Ashdod back in 2009/10 season.
Ashley Walker was Lacy's teammate in Ceyan Belediyespor last season. The centre notched 17.0 points, 8.2 rebounds, 2.0 steals and 1.3 assists per game in TKBL. She also played for Maccabi Ashdod in 2009/10 season. Ashley Walker was named All-Israeli League Player of the Year in 2010.


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  ITALY   


Jazmine Sepulveda signs at Chieti - by Eurobasket News

C.U.S. Chieti (A1) strengthened their roster with addition of 27-year old Puerto Rican international-Puerto Rican shooting guard Jazmine Sepulveda (178-85, college: S.Florida, agency: Merit Sports). She played in the summer at Gigantes de Carolina in Puerto Rican BSNF. The last season Sepulveda played at Energa Torun in Polish PLKK. In 30 PLKK games she averaged 15.4ppg, 4.8rpg, 2.7apg and 1.8spg. Sepulveda helped them to make it to the cup semifinals. A very spectacular season in her career as she was selected to Eurobasket.com All-Polish PLKK 2nd Team and to Eurobasket.com Polish PLKK All-Imports Team at the end of the season . She played for Puerto Rican senior national team this year.
Sepulveda played also professionally in Israel and Slovakia. She graduated University of South Florida in 2009 and it will be her fourth season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center (from @lovewomensbball)


Faenza keeps Lavinia Santucci, adds rookie Candice Bellocchio - by Eurobasket News

Faenza announced signing of a 1-year contract extension with Lavinia Santucci (186-F-85). The team also landed Candice Bellocchio (167-G, agency: Two Points) for the upcoming season.
Lavinia Santucci arrived to Faenza in 2008 from Viterbo. Last season she had 4.8 ppg and 2.8 rpg. The player had almost the same numbers in 2010/11. Santucci won Italian Cup with Faenza three years ago. In 2010 she was named Eurobasket.com All-Italian A1 Most Improved Player of The Year. Santucci played for Italian National Team in 2013 EuroBasket Qualifications averaging 5.4 points and 2.6 rebounds for 8 games.
Candice Bellocchio is rookie who graduated few months ago and Hofstra University. She had 9.1 ppg, 6.2 apg and 3.6 rpg for 31 games as a senior. The player was named to All-CAA 3rd Team -12. Bellocchio has American and Italian citizenship.


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  LITHUANIA   


Edremit lands Lithuanian NT player Marina Solopova - by Eurobasket News

Marina Solopova (180-G/F-90) will continue her career in Turkey. The Lithuanian NT player announced via Twitter that she signed a deal with Edremit Belediyesi. It will be her first time in Turkey. Solopova spent last season with French Union Saint-Amand Porte du Hainaut. She had 14.4 ppg, 2.8 apg, 2.4 rpg and 2.4 spg for 10 EuroCup games. She helped Union Hainaut to reach the Quarterfinals in this competition. In French league Solopova added 10.5 ppg, 2.6 rpg and 2.6 apg for 29 games. Before Union Hainaut, Marina Solopova won the Lithuanian league title with VICI Aistes Kaunas in 2011. She was named to Eurobasket.com All-Lithuanian LMKL 1st Team -11. That season Solopova also spent one month with Good Angels Kosice. In the past, she spent few years with Lemminkainen Klaipeda. Marina Solopova is active member of the Lithuanian NT since 2020. She had 9.4 ppg and 2.5 rpg fro 8 games in 2013 EuroBasket Qualifications.


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  NCAA1   


Faenza keeps Lavinia Santucci, adds rookie Candice Bellocchio - by Eurobasket News

Faenza announced signing of a 1-year contract extension with Lavinia Santucci (186-F-85). The team also landed Candice Bellocchio (167-G, agency: Two Points) for the upcoming season.
Lavinia Santucci arrived to Faenza in 2008 from Viterbo. Last season she had 4.8 ppg and 2.8 rpg. The player had almost the same numbers in 2010/11. Santucci won Italian Cup with Faenza three years ago. In 2010 she was named Eurobasket.com All-Italian A1 Most Improved Player of The Year. Santucci played for Italian National Team in 2013 EuroBasket Qualifications averaging 5.4 points and 2.6 rebounds for 8 games.
Candice Bellocchio is rookie who graduated few months ago and Hofstra University. She had 9.1 ppg, 6.2 apg and 3.6 rpg for 31 games as a senior. The player was named to All-CAA 3rd Team -12. Bellocchio has American and Italian citizenship.


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  PUERTO RICO   

Standings - Women

BSNF Standings
 1. Quebradillas 7-1 
 2. Morovis M. 6-0 
 3. Carolina G. 5-2 
 4. San German 4-2 
 5. Juncos V. 2-6 
 6. Aguas B.T. 1-6 
 7. Ponce L. 0-8 

Regular Season: Round 7

Sep. 9: Juncos V. - Aguas B.T. 83-80
Sep. 11: Morovis M. - Ponce L.
Sep. 11: San German - Aguas B.T.
Sep. 12: Juncos V. - Quebradillas


Stats Leaders - Superleague 25

Points Per Game
 Yolanda MARTIN
  Aguas B.T.
  (180-G-83)
  Avg: 27.9
 1. Martin, Aguas B.T.27.9 
 2. Valentin, Carolina23.3 
 3. Werema, Juncos V.22.4 
 4. Jones, Carolina G.18.8 
 5. Fairweather, Ponce18.0 
 6. Bruszewski, Quebra.17.5 
 7. Smith, San German16.2 
 8. Seals, Aguas B.T.16.1 
 9. Williams, San Germ.15.0 
 10. Rosado, Morovis M.14.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Yolanda JONES
  Carolina G.
  (184-F-84)
  Avg: 12.8
 1. Jones, Carolina G.12.8 
 2. Rosario, Ponce L.12.0 
 3. Martin, Aguas B.T.10.3 
 4. Seals, Aguas B.T.9.4 
 5. Gonzalez, San G.9.0 
 6. Werema, Juncos V.8.9 
 7. Bruszewski, Quebra.8.9 
 8. Williams, Morovis8.2 
 9. Williams, San Germ.8.0 
 10. Pineiro, Morovis7.8 
Assists Per Game
 Carla ESCALERA
  Morov.
  (179-PF-84)
  Avg: 3.8
 1. Escalera, Morov.3.8 
 2. Ruiz, Aguas B.T.3.7 
 3. Rodriguez, Carolin.3.5 
 4. Figueroa, Morov.3.4 
 5. Bruszewski, Quebra.3.4 
 6. Gonzalez, San G.3.4 
 7. Concepcion, Junco.3.4 
 8. Johnson, Aguas B..3.3 
 9. Rosado, San German3.2 
 10. Jones, Carolina G.3.2 
Steals Per Game
 Pamela ROSADO
  Morovis M.
  (165-PG-86)
  Avg: 3.8
 1. Rosado, Morovis M.3.8 
 2. Magee, Carolina G.3.0 
 3. De La Paz, Juncos2.8 
 4. Rodriguez, Carolin.2.7 
 5. Fairweather, Ponce2.7 
 6. Martin, Aguas B.T.2.6 
 7. Matthews, Aguas B.2.6 
 8. Jones, Carolina G.2.5 
 9. Lechlitner, Quebra.2.3 
 10. Valentin, Carolin.2.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Angelina WILLIAMS
  Morovis M.
  (183-F/C-83)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Williams, Morovis2.6 
 2. Rosario, Ponce L.1.6 
 3. Seals, Aguas B.T.1.3 
 4. Werema, Juncos V.1.3 
 5. Placido, Quebradil.1.3 
 6. Escalera, Morov.1.0 
 7. Bruszewski, Quebra.1.0 
 8. Martin, Aguas B.T.0.9 
 9. Flores, Ponce L.0.9 
 10. Rosado, San Germ.0.8 


Wins for Valencianas and Piratas: - by Luis Modestti

Valencianas de Juncos and Piratas de Quebradillas won over the weekend in BSNF.

Valencianas defeated Tigresas de Aguas Buenas 83-80 led by Gaati Werema (183-G-88, college: Prairie View A&M) who had 20 points and 13 rebounds. This was their second win of the season and one where they could close the deal in the clutch.

Piratas de Quebradillas edged Gigantes de Carolina 59-55. Piratas have a 7-1 record and are behind Morovis who is still undefeated in six games.

Mari Placido led Piratas with 15 points and 10 rebounds.

BSNF action continues on Tuesday as Tigresas face Atleticas and Morovis visits Ponce.


Gigantes get a point guard, teams get new imports: - by Luis Modestti


Valencianas de Juncos traded guard Sonia Roman to Gigantes de Carolina for Stephanie Colon. The trade was approved by the league.

Roman averaged 8.43 points and 6 rebounds per game. She played last season for Mets de Guaynabo.

Another move by Valencianas was the signing of import DelaQuese Jernigan. She played in Xavier University and played in Finland with Aanekosken Huima.

Atleticas de San German announced Tyra White as their new import. She replaces Earnesia Williams.

White played at Texas A & M and played in the preseason with Matizol Lider Pruszkow in Poland.


Jazmine Sepulveda signs at Chieti - by Eurobasket News

C.U.S. Chieti (A1) strengthened their roster with addition of 27-year old Puerto Rican international-Puerto Rican shooting guard Jazmine Sepulveda (178-85, college: S.Florida, agency: Merit Sports). She played in the summer at Gigantes de Carolina in Puerto Rican BSNF. The last season Sepulveda played at Energa Torun in Polish PLKK. In 30 PLKK games she averaged 15.4ppg, 4.8rpg, 2.7apg and 1.8spg. Sepulveda helped them to make it to the cup semifinals. A very spectacular season in her career as she was selected to Eurobasket.com All-Polish PLKK 2nd Team and to Eurobasket.com Polish PLKK All-Imports Team at the end of the season . She played for Puerto Rican senior national team this year.
Sepulveda played also professionally in Israel and Slovakia. She graduated University of South Florida in 2009 and it will be her fourth season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center (from @lovewomensbball)


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  ROMANIA   


Celik outplays Alba Iulia to win 'Amna Fazlic Tournament' - by Eurobasket News

Celik is the winner of third memorial 'Amna Fazlic Tournament' in Zenica. The reigning Bosnian champion outplayed Alba Iulia in the final game 68-64. Monika Veselovski (183-F-77) led the home squad with 18 points in this meeting, while Alma Kovacevic (186-F/C-83) helped with 13. Rada Vidovic (177-G-79) and Zvjezdana Gagic (169-G-81, agency: Global Sports Plaza) added 10 points each. In the loosing squad, Amanda Thompson (183-F-87, college: Oklahoma) and Rebecca Tobin (195-F-88, college: Arizona St.) delivered 15 and 13 points respectively. Ekaterina Abramzon (185-F-87) stopped to 10 points. In the Semifinals Celik eliminated Serbian team Jagodina. Alba Iulia downed Croatian Medvescak 49-58.
Third place in Zenica belongs to Medvescak, who was better than Jagodina 75-52. Nina Premasunac (186-F-92) was the leading player in victory with 17 points. Ana-Marija Begic (190-C-94) followed her with 12, while Iva Todoric (174-F-93) added 11 pts in this meeting. In Jagodina, Ivana Grubor (185-F/C-84) better than the others with 16 points. Djordjevic stopped to 10.


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  RUSSIA   


Krasnoyanochka lose three in a row in Slovak Republic - by Eurobasket News

Krasnoyanochka Krasnoyarsk travelled to Slovak Republic to take part at the pre-season tournament in Piestany. The team suffered three losses in a row against strong teams.
Krasnoyanocka opened their campaign against hosting Piestanky Cajky. The hosts proved the strength celebrating a 66:51 win. Nikola Dudasova (169-PG-95) and Maria Felixova (191-C-90) accounted for 13 points each to lead the winners. Evgenia Shapovalova (191-F-88) answered with 11 points for the Krasnoyarsk team.
Next Krasnoyanochka took on Valosun Brno. The Russian outfit led by five points after ten minutes of action 32:27. But Valosun recovered well in the second half and sealed a tough 62:59 win. Eva Mrhalkova (175-F/G-88) produced 17 points for the winners. Evgenia Shapovalova topscored again for Krasnoyanochka with 11 points.
Finally Krasnoyanochka took on tournament favourites Good Angels. The Kosice team quickly gained a 23-point lead and never looked back en route to the victory. Tijana Krivacevic (194-F-90) and Miljana Bojovic (181-G-87) posted 16 points each for the winners. Irina Romanova (186-G/F-88) responded with 11 points, while Marina Pasechnik (180-F-89) and Momot had 7 points each in the loss.


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  SERBIA   


Marija Boskovic has signed with AEL - by Tamara Ruzic

Flash Agency Guard Marija Boskovic (173-G-81) has signed a year contract with the champion and cup holder 2011-2012 of Cyprus AEL Limassol. In January 2012 Keravnos Strovolou agreed terms with 31-year old Serbian guard and after having a tremendous season and leading her team to the finals of the Cypriot Championship, decided to stay for one more season in Cyprus, but moving to the team of Limassol. Boskovic elected as Eurobasket.com Guard of the Year 2011-2012 in Cyprus and was one of the leaders of her team in the Regular Season and in the Play-Offs of the Cypriot Championship 2011-2012. Boskovic has a very long experience playing for several clubs in Europe and is ready to help the team of George Palalas to repeat the double of 2011-2012.


Nikolina Nikolic will stay in Romania - by Dragana Vukovic

The management of CSM Sportul Studentesc Bucuresti announced that they have signed one year deal with Nikolina Nikolic (178-G-91). Last season she played in BC Olimpia Brasov averaging 15.6 points, 3.3 rebounds and 2.1 assists during 34.6 minutes on the court. Befor she left to Romania Nikolina Nikolic played for Vozdovac Beograd. She was also member of Serbian NT at U20 European Championship in Novi Sad during the summer 2011.


Radivoj Korac added Jelena Radic - by Dragana Vukovic

After she has spent four seasons in ZKK Partizan Galenika Beograd, Jelena Radic (190-C-87) moved to Radivoj Korac Beograd. She signed one year deal. During the period in ZKK Partizan Galenika Beograd she won three Championships, one Cup title and one Adriatic league title. Last season she had limited minutes on the court and she was averaging 2.9 points, 2.7 rebounds and 0.4 assists in Adriatic league and 3.0 points and 2.5 rebounds in Fiba Cup. With this signing management of Radivoj Korac Beograd continue to build up their roster.


Medvescak beats Jagodina, takes third place at 'Amna Fazlic Tournament' in Zenica - by Eurobasket News

Croatian squad Medvescak won third place at 'Amna Fazlic Tournament' in Zenica. It was third edition of this memorial. In the battle for position No.3 Medvescak outplayed Serbian team Jagodina 75-52. Nina Premasunac (186-F-92) was the leading player in victory with 17 points. Ana-Marija Begic (190-C-94) followed her with 12, while Iva Todoric (174-F-93) added 11 pts in this meeting. In Jagodina, Ivana Grubor (185-F/C-84) was better than the others with 16 points. Djordjevic stopped to 10. In the first game in Zenica Medvescak failed to Alba Iulia. The Romanian squad celebrated 58-49 victory in this meeting.
The host Celik is the winner of Amna Fazlic Tournament. They outplayed Alba Iulia 68-64 in the final. Monika Veselovski (183-F-77) top-scored for the winners with 18 points.


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  SLOVAKIA   


Good Angels clinch pre-season tournament title - by Eurobasket News

Good Angels celebrated victory at pre-season tournament in Piestany. They clinched three wins in as many games played at the tourney.
Good Angels opened the tournament with a 70:46 win over Valosun Brno. Petra Kulichova (198-C-84) scored 14 points to pace the winners. Helena Sverrisdottir (185-F/G-88, college: TCU) added 13 points, while Katarina Pindrochova (183-F-88) had 12 points for Good Angels. Beata Adamcova (185-PF-93) anwered with 12 points for Valosun Brno.
Next Good Angels took on Piestanske Cajky. And once again the Kosice team proved the strength. They earned an 84:46 victory at the end. Helena Sverrisdottir knocked down 19 points for the winners. Barbora Balintova (176-G-94) finished with 17 points in the victory. Nikola Dudasova (169-PG-95) had 14 points for Cajky.
Finally Good Angels faced Krasnoyanocka Krasnoyarsk. Good Angels cleared off to a 29:6 distance after the opening quarter and never looked back en route to a 68:53 win. Tijana Krivacevic (194-F-90) and Miljana Bojovic (181-G-87) netted 16 points each for the winners. Helena Sverrisdottir netted 12 points for the Kosice team. Irina Romanova (186-G/F-88) banked 11 points for Enisey.


Good Angels ink American PF Plenette Pierson - by Eurobasket News

Plenette Pierson (188-PF-81, college: Texas Tech) will continue her career in Slovakia. The American power forward penned a 1-year deal with reigning champions Good Angels Kosice. She is currently a member of the WNBA team New York Liberty. Pierson averages 12.4 points, 5.2 rebounds and 2.2 assists for 22 games. Last season she spent with Israeli squad Maccabi Bnot Ashdod. For 22 domestic league games the player averaged 15 points, 8 rebounds, 1.8 steals and 1.3 blocks. Maccabi Bnot Ashdod won the championship title and Plenette Pierson was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Israeli League Player of the Year -12. They also won the Cup trophy last season. In the past, Pierson played in Turkey, Poland, Russia and Italy. In 2007, she won first Israeli title and Cup with Elizur Ramla.


Kosice has landed two time winner of WNBA - by Michal Duchovic

Latest addition to roster of Good Angels Kosice is Plenette Pierson (188-PF-81, college: Texas Tech). According to official site of team is Plenette one of the most toughest defense players in WNBA. She has lot of experience, in her career she was playing in Israel, Turkey. Last season she sharted in Maccabi Bnot Ashdod, where he played in six Eurocup matches with average of 16.2ppg, 8.5rpg, 2.3apg, 2.5spg, 2.0bpg. In league he started as a member of starting five in 22 matches with average of 15.0ppg, 8.0rpg, 4.0apg, 1.8spg. In Good Angels Kosice she is arriving with reputation of one of the best player that played last season in Israel. For now must Good Angels Kosice wait, because she is playing with New York Liberty in WNBA play-off.


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  SPAIN   


The Executive Committee of the FEB has decided that only the last team descends to LF2 - by Lino Lopez

The Executive Committee of the FEB has decided that only the bottom team lost the Women's League of the category and six teams participating in the play-offs for the title. The Uni Girona aspires to organize the Queen's Cup, which is held with four teams.

The Executive Committee of the FEB has not accepted the proposal of the clubs that no decreases in the upcoming Women's League. The national federation has decided to descend to the bottom, two Women's League. At least, that should be on sporting merit.

However, the Executive Committee has approved the proposal made by the clubs regarding the play-offs for the title. Therefore, six teams will contest the finals. The top two finishers will access directly to the semifinals, while the teams located between the third and sixth will face each other to reach the semifinals.

The timing of the Women's League has also undergone a slight modification. The last day of 2012 is postponed to December 22 and will mark the Ecuador of the competition, while the first of 2013 is delayed until 12 January.

The Queen's Cup, to be held on 9 and 10 March 2013, four teams remain. The Uni Girona has expressed interest in the organizer of this edition.

encancha.com
Juan Manuel Muoz


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  SWITZERLAND   


Luzern Highfliers release Ceciley Johnson - by Eurobasket News

Luzern Highfliers opted to part ways with Ceciley Johnson (188-C-87, college: W.Texas A&M). The centre joined the team during the pre-season. However she did not make it until the regular season on the roster. Ceciley Johnson spent the previous season in Romania. She played for Politechnica Iasi. Her stats read 11.9 points, 12.0 rebounds, 1.7 steals per game in D1. It was the first pro season for Ceciley Johnson. She graduated from West Texas A&M University in 2010. Ceciley Johnson played at NCAA D2 Elite Eight in 2009.
Luzern will likely enter the market looking for the replacement.


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  TURKEY   


Edremit lands Lithuanian NT player Marina Solopova - by Eurobasket News

Marina Solopova (180-G/F-90) will continue her career in Turkey. The Lithuanian NT player announced via Twitter that she signed a deal with Edremit Belediyesi. It will be her first time in Turkey. Solopova spent last season with French Union Saint-Amand Porte du Hainaut. She had 14.4 ppg, 2.8 apg, 2.4 rpg and 2.4 spg for 10 EuroCup games. She helped Union Hainaut to reach the Quarterfinals in this competition. In French league Solopova added 10.5 ppg, 2.6 rpg and 2.6 apg for 29 games. Before Union Hainaut, Marina Solopova won the Lithuanian league title with VICI Aistes Kaunas in 2011. She was named to Eurobasket.com All-Lithuanian LMKL 1st Team -11. That season Solopova also spent one month with Good Angels Kosice. In the past, she spent few years with Lemminkainen Klaipeda. Marina Solopova is active member of the Lithuanian NT since 2020. She had 9.4 ppg and 2.5 rpg fro 8 games in 2013 EuroBasket Qualifications.


Mersin BSB and beats TED Ankara in friendly game, 77-70 - by Eurobasket News

Mersin BSB and TED Ankara Koleji met yesterday in a friendly game. Mersin was a better team celebrating 77-70 victory. Their leading player was Ecem Guler (189-PF-92) with 17 points and 7 rebounds. Balim Akbulak (176-G/F-93) also was great adding 16 points and boards, while Bahar Ozturk (183-G/F-84, college: Connecticut) had double-double of 15 points and 10 rebs. Ozturk also dished out 5 assists beside that. In defeat, Tugce Murat (194-C-91) was better than the others with 18 points and 8 rebs, while Deniz Aygul (178-SG-95) collected 15 pts and 6 rebs.
Recently, Mersin completed its roster for the upcoming season. The team added Seda Erdogan (170-F-87, agency: 1x1 Sports, college: Dodge City CC). She arrived to the club from Ceyhan. Erdogan appeared 18 times in TKBL last season averaging 5.7 points, 1.8 rebounds and 1.6 assists.


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  UNITED KINGDOM   


Rocks Finalise Roster - by Paul Nilsen

The Glasgow Rocks are proud to announce that they have completed their 2012/13 roster with the signing of two up-and-coming youngsters to their line-up, Owen McNally (203-F-87, college: Spring Hill) and Dale Grieve (190-G-92).

24 year old Owen McNally, will be looking to make an impact in the BBL and may well be the surprise packet signing of 2012/13. McNally will be coming to the Rocks after a short stint at Irish club UCD Marian last season where he averaged 15.8ppg and 8.5rpg. McNally, who was originally born in Long Beach Mississippi, also holds an Irish passport making him eligible to play for the Rocks without incurring a work permit position.

McNally's 6'8" frame gives the Rocks one of their biggest line-ups in years and his ability to play inside-out should pose some match-up problems for the defence. He had a very successful four years at Spring Hill (NAIA) and is currently taking time out from the University of Mississippi where he is looking to complete his Law Degree. Coach Sterling Davis said:

"I foresee Owen being our dark horse this season. He has some professional experience playing in Ireland which will give him a step closer to being very effective in the league. He has great footwork and skill along with physical strength which gives us some depth on the interior."

To complete the double final signing, the Glasgow Rocks can confirm that they have secured the services of up-and-coming Scottish star Dale Grieve.

Grieve rounds off the 2012/13 squad and will be coming into the line-up after being spotted at the Glasgow Rocks Open Trials held back in August. He was part of the U/18 Scottish National Team and was heavily backed to represent the Rocks last season, however, a series of unfortunate events caused him to miss out. This year he is tipped to develop into another very talented Scottish Basketball Player. Coach Davis had the following to say about Grieve:

"Dale is a guy I have been keeping my eye on for a year now. He has shown tremendous potential in the two open tryouts he has participated in and I am excited to see his development progress at this level."


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  WBCBL   


Louisiana Bayou Angels captures the 2012 WBCBL National Title - by Willie McCray

The Louisiana Bayou Angels (11-2) defeats St. Louis Surge (12-4) 90-80 to capture the 2012 WBCBL National Championship. Congratulations to the Louisiana Bayou Angels on a remarkable and successful season!

2012 Womens Blue Chip Basketball National Tournament Results:

1ST ROUND
Fort Lauderdale Lions 91 Florida Knighthawks 84
Winston-Salem Lady Warcats 77 Louisiana Bayou Angels 96
St. Louis Surge 90 Dallas Lady Diesel 75

2ND ROUND
Fort Lauderdale Lions 97 Fayetteville Lady Rush 94
Louisiana Bayou Angels 101 Columbus Lady Wings 76
St. Louis Surge 81 Miami Rain 71
Charleston Lowcountry Fire 83 Kansas Nuggets 84

SEMI-FINALS
Louisiana Bayou Angels 106 Kansas Nuggets 92
Fort Lauderdale Lions 70St. Louis Surge 75

FINALS
St. Louis Surge 80 Louisiana Bayou Angels 90

The Championship game has been posted to: www.WBCBL.com, other games will be posted on "WBCBL TV"