EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 9/18/2012 4:04:01 AM

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Men News

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  ADRIATIC LEAGUE   



MZT Skopje releases rookie Brandon Wood - by Eurobasket News

Brandon Wood (187-G-89, agency: N.E.T., college: Michigan St.) is no longer a member of MZT Skopje. The reigning FYR Macedonian champion released the player last week, before their trip to Sarajevo. The American rookie signed with MZT recently, but according to local media he did not meet expectations. The team is back on the market looking for combo guard to replace Wood.
Brandon Wood graduated at Michigan State University few months ago. He had 8.8 ppg, 2.8 rpg and 1.9 apg for 37 games. Michigan State won the Big Ten Tournament and reached NCAA Sweet 16. The player was named to Big Ten All-Tournament Team -12. Wood transferred to Michigan State in 2011 from Valparaiso University. He played for Valparaiso from 2009 to 2011. Before that Brandon Wood spent one year with Southern Illinois University.


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  ARGENTINA   

Standings - LigaA

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

Regular Season: Round 2

North

Sep. 16: Libertad S. - Atenas 86-69
Sep. 16: La Union - Regatas C. 69-73
Sep. 16: Quimsa - Olimpico LB 65-66
Sep. 16: Union Progr. - Sionista 63-66

South

Sep. 16: Wuber-Est.Bahia - Boca Jrs 91-84
Sep. 16: Argentino - GECR Indalo 81-67
Sep. 16: Club 9 - Lanus 77-81
Sep. 16: Penarol - Obras 71-85

Regular Season: Round 3

North

Sep. 21: Regatas C. - Quimsa
Sep. 21: Atenas - Union Progr.
Sep. 21: Sionista - Libertad S.
Sep. 21: Olimpico LB - La Union

Round 1

Sep. 18: Argentino - Lanus

South

Sep. 21: Boca Jrs - Club 9
Sep. 21: GECR Indalo - Penarol
Sep. 21: Obras - Argentino
Sep. 21: Lanus - Wuber-Est.Bahia


TNA: roster changes - by Facundo Iatzky

Sport Club annouced they reached an agreement with Grady Reynolds (198-F-80, college: St.John's), former player of Boca Juniors. Grady is expected to arrive this week to Canada de gomez and make his debut next weekend. He will replace David Butler, who despite have shown good things in the friendly games, was not what the team was looking for.
Quilmes de Mar del plata signed veteran Andres Rodriguez, who comes to play in Paraguay, as replacement of injured cristian Romero, who will be 5 months out of the competition.


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  BALKAN LEAGUE   


Two group stages and a Final Four for the new season in EUROHOLD BIBL - by Eurobasket News

The new season in EUROHOLD BIBL will have 10 teams that are divided in two groups. The campaign will start on October 16th and will finish on April 21st, 2013. This season there will be two group stages and then a Final Four to determine the new champion.

Here is the system of competition for season 2012/2013:


Qualifying Round

- Ten (10) teams shall be divided into 2 (two) groups (A and B) consisting of five (5) teams each. Each team shall play with the other teams in its own group home and away games (eight (8) games for each team). The teams from the same country shall be devided in different groups (if possible).

- The allocation of the teams shall be decided by the management of BIBL according to geogrpahical location, travel costs and foreign-affairs matters.

- The teams placed 1st, 2nd and 3rd in each group will qualify for the group C.

- The teams placed 4th and 5th in each group will play in the group D.


Second round

- The 6 (six) teams qualified for group C, will keep the results between them from the first stage and will play with the three teams from the other group home and away games.

- The first 4 (four) teams in the final standing in group C qualify for the Final Four.

- The 4 (four) teams qualified for group D, will keep the results between them from the first stage and will play with the two teams from the other group home and away games.


Final Four

- All four teams which qualified for the Final Four, shall be entitled to submit their candidature to host the Final Four.


Semi-Finals

- The 4 (four) teams, qualified from the Champions group, play as follows:

1 Team ranked 1st vs. Team ranked 4th

2 Team ranked 2nd vs. Team ranked 3rd


Final

- The winners of these games qualify for the Final (Winner 1 vs Winner 2)

- If two teams from the same country qualify for the Final Four, these teams shall meet in the Semi-Final.

- The winner of the Final game shall be named BIBL Champion.

Courtesy of BIBL


EUROHOLD BIBL to start on October 16 - by Eurobasket News

The new, fifth in a row, season in EUROHOLD Balkan International Basketball League will start on October 16. On this day will be played the first two games of the regular season which will feature ten teams, including four new ones.

Both last seasons winner and finalist - Galil Gilboa and Levski respectively, are in group A in this years tournament. They are joined by KK Djuro Djakovic (Slavonski Brod, CRO), Mornar (Bar, MNE) and the newcomers KK Kumanovo (Kumanovo, MKD).

Group B features three newcomers in Kavala (Kavala, GRE), Teodo (Tivat, MNE) and Kozuv (Gevgelija, MKD). Well known participant in the tournament who complete this group B are Rilski Sportist (Samokov, BUL) and OKK Beograd (Belgrade, SRB).

The first games will be played on October 16th and the program offers two matches. In group A KK Kumanovo will host KK Mornar while in group B OKK Beograd is waiting KK Kozuv at home. On the next day, October 17, there are another two games - Galil Gilboa plays at home against KK Djuro Djarovic in group A while Kavala will make its debut in the competition in front of the local fans hosting Rilski Sportist in group B.

In this season of BIBL there will be two group phases and a Final Four. In the first group phase all the teams will play ten games each with the top three placed from each group advancing to the second group phase and forming one group with six teams.

The six teams qualified for group C, will keep the results between them from the first stage and will play with the three teams from the other group home and away games. The top four in the standing will qualify for the Final Four which will take place between 19 and 21 of April, 2013.

Teams placed 4th and 5th in the first stage will go to a new group and meet against each other while keeping the results from the first phase. They will play for money prize.

Courtesy of BIBL


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  BALTIC LEAGUE   


Tarvas test Clarence Jackson - by Eurobasket News

Rakvere Tarvas are looking for the options to strengthen the roster. They recently invited Clarence Jackson (193-G-89, college: Siena) for try-outs. The guard spent the last season in Ukraine. He played for DniproAzot. The guard notched 12.5 points, 2.5 rebounds and 1.5 assists per game in Superleague. It was his first pro season. Clarence Jackson graduated from the Siena College in 2011. He notched 14.7 points, 3.1 boards, 1.7 assists and 1.2 steals per game in his senior season. Clarence Jackson was named MAAC Sixth Man of the Year in 2009. Next season the guard was named into All-MAAC 3rd Team.


Siauliai returns Saulius Kuzminskas - by Eurobasket News

Saulius Kuzminskas (210-C/F-82, college: California) is back to Siauliai for the upcoming season. The Lithuanian big guy played for Siauliai from 2001 to 2003 and later from 2007 to 2009. Last season Kuzminskas finished with Trefl Sopot. He joined them in January averaging 3.5 points and 2.3 rebounds in 24 games. They won Polish Cup together and reached PLK Finals. Before Trefl Sopot, the player spent few months with Rudupis Prienu. There he registered 5.3 ppg and 4.8 rpg in 4 LKL games, plus 4.7 rpg and 4 rpg for 3 appearances in Baltic league. Kuzminskas started the season with Italian Vanoli Cremona, but they parted ways after 3 games. In 2010/11, Saulius Kuzminskas played for Ventspils. In the past, he was a member of Oldenburg, Union Olimpija, Gravelines and Lietuvos Rytas.


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  BELGIUM   


Belgacom Spirou Transfer - by Peter Buyse

Spirou Charleroi has found the player to replace the departed Demond Mallet. Mallet went to Germany, Je'Kel Foster (191-G-83, college: Ohio St.) comes to Belgium from Germany.
Foster is no stranger to overseas basketball, having played in Germany, France and Italy. The former Ohio State Buckeye played for several teams in Germany since leaving college.
He started his pro career in Germany for Ludwigsburg (06-07), before heading to France where he played for Levallois during the 07-08 season. Between 2008 and 2010 he returned to Germany where he was on the Oldenburg roster. During his second season there he played Euroleague. After the 2 years in Oldenburg he moved to Italy to play for Serie A team Cremona. This past season he returned to Germany this time playing for Bayern Munchen. In 35 games in the bundesliga he averaged 13.3 ppg, 3.7 rpg and 2.3 apg.


Division II - Round Two - by Bert Larsimont

BasKet Tongeren vs. Cuva Houthalen: 93-106

The two teams joined Division II this season. Cuva Houthalen, Coach Brian Lynch's team, went to defeat 2011-12 Division 3A champion BasKet Tongeren.
Best scorers:
Tongeren: K. Doukmani 19, J. Moonen 14.
Houthalen: J. Westrol 25, R. McCollum 31.

Bent Schoenen Waregem vs. BBC Haantjes Oudenaarde: 68-63

Thanks to an excellent first half by Stan Naudts (195-F-86, 10 rebounds and 6 steals in this game) and Ahmet Gueye (203-C/F-82, college: Hawaii, 13 rebounds in the game), BS Waregem took a good lead at the half. The Haantjes responded well after the break and, led by Jean Salumu (193-F-90), remained close in the last minutes. Two crucial three-pointers by Waregem's forward Olivier Foucart (195-G-84) and a technical foul against BBC Oudenaarde's Coach Alain Defraigne eventually made the difference in favour of the home team.
Score evolution: 18-16, 32-25, 48-42 and 68-63.
Best scorers:
BS Waregem: A. Steinbach 14, O. Foucart 14, A. Gueye 19, T. Foucart 4, S. Naudts 13, B. Samaey 2, Loontiens 2.
Haantjes: G. De Lepeleire 6, Bourdeaux 10, J. Salumu 24, Mestdag 10, Linskens 8, L. Lhote 5.

St-Niklase Condors vs. Essor Charleroi (Spirou B): 76-55

Spirou center Boris Penninck (202-C-88, double licenced) and French players Yann Siegwarth (184-PG-93), Arthur Zuccolini (210-F/C-91) and Luc Louves (207-C/F-89, agency: Three Eye Sports) could not do much against the excellent organisation of the Condors, coached by Steve Ibens.
Best scorers:
Condors: N/A
Essor: Y. Siegwarth 15, Lambot 3, Dedave 6, Eyenga 4, A. Zuccolini 6, B. Penninck 11, L. Louves 10.

Sint-Jan Antwerp vs. Belfius Mons Hainaut II: 78-70

Score evolution: 20-17, 46-33, 61-51 and 78-70.
Best scorers:
Sint-Jan: V. Haerbos 3, B. Hartshorne 10, B. Raes 12, N. El Khounchar 21, A. Druwez 6, S. Geukens 12, L. Anthonis 6, M. Brown 8.
Mons Hainaut II: Walasiak 2, Pretto 7, Lecomte 7, Vlamynck 17, Schwartz 22, M. Renard 7, K. Tumba 8.

Kangoeroes Boom vs. Gembo BBC: 95-92

The end of the fourth quarter has been really thrilling. When the game was tied, Kangoeroes were nevertheless always able to react and take a new lead. Witse Van Schil (188-G-83) was particularly confident and scored important baskets and free-throws to help his team win this Antwerp derby.
Score evolution: 32-21, 52-40, 71-60 and 95-92.
Best scorers:
Kangoeroes: S. Bellin 13, Dobbelaere 8, D. Souveryns 20, W. Van Schil 28, M. Gorremans 18, D. Dhaens 6, Verlinden 2.
Gembo: N/A

Excelsior Brussels vs. Gent Dragons: 86-82

Although Dragon forward Thomas Van De Vondel (194-F/G-80) responded well to the Excelsior's fantastic trio of big men Emmanuel Mampuya (200-F/C-79, agency: Promotex), Stephane Pelle (205-C/F-80, college: Colorado) and Kanefu Semijejero (195-PF-77), this was not enough for the visitors to win the game.
Best scorers:
Excelsior: E. Mampuya 14, X. Collette 3, N. Verrept 10, Van Haevermaet 3, De Pooter 9, Maesfrancx 4, De Schepper 10, S. Pelle 18, S. Semijejero 15.
Dragons: J. Jones 2, B. Heinle 6, R. Spaens 10, L. Tielens 7, F. Lait 7, T. Van De Vondel 39, M. Van Gelder 2, C. Tshimuanga 9.

Point Chaud Sprimont vs. CEP Fleurus: 78-93

It is never easy to travel to Sprimont of Coach Pascal Horrion, probably one the most surprising and challenging Division II teams last season.
Mainly thanks to an excellent second quarter, CEP nevertheless earned a first 2012-13 regular season success in Sprimont. Led by their captain Christian Ilongo (194-F-85, agency: Promotex) (elected as team captain by the CEP supporters earlier this season), the men of Coach Paul Vervaeck have controlled the game in the second half.
Score evolution: 15-12, 33-51, 55-66 and 78-93.
Best scorers:
Sprimont: Vrancken 10, Thome 13, Hertay 2, Manset 8, F. Delsaute 23, Flagothier 13, Donnay 4, Bousmanne 5.
Fleurus: M. Kouwijzer 11, C. Manzanza 10, L. Pourtoit 20, L. Hazard 2, T. Bauwens 12, C. Ilongo 26, S. Muric 12.




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  BRAZIL   

Standings - Paulista, Carioca, Minas G. leagues

Paulista Standings
GroupA
 1. Paulistano 7-2 
 2. S.Jose/Unimed 7-2 
 3. Pinheiros/Sky 6-3 
 4. Palmeiras 5-4 
 5. Gremio Mogi 5-4 
 6. Suzano 3-6 
 7. Metodista/S.B. 2-7 
 8. Inter Santos 1-8 
GroupB
 1. Paschoalotto/B. 7-1 
 2. Winner/Limeira 5-2 
 3. Vivo/Franca 5-3 
 4. America 3-4 
 5. Liga Sorocaba 2-5 
 6. Rio Claro 2-5 
 7. Jacarei 2-6 
Stage Two Standings

Second Stage: Round 9

Sep. 15: Vivo/Franca - Jacarei 97-70
Sep. 15: Liga Sorocaba - Paschoalotto/B. 95-96
Sep. 15: Gremio Mogi - S.Jose/Unimed 79-78
Sep. 16: Suzano - Inter Santos 77-93
Sep. 15: Metodista/S.B. - Paulistano 66-76
Sep. 16: Palmeiras - Pinheiros/Sky 60-88

Second Stage: Round 10

Sep. 19: Inter Santos - Gremio Mogi
Sep. 19: Winner/Limeira - America
Sep. 19: S.Jose/Unimed - Suzano
Sep. 20: Jacarei - Liga Sorocaba
Sep. 20: Paschoalotto/B. - Rio Claro
Sep. 20: Paulistano - Pinheiros/Sky


Bauru nip Liga Sorocabana on the road in Paulista League - by Eurobasket News

Paschoalotto Bauru clinched a 96:95 road win over Liga Sorocabana in Paulista League action. The victory propelled Bauru at 7-1 record on top of Group B. Larry Taylor (185-G-80, agency: Veracity Sports, LLC, college: Missouri Western) accounted for 26 points and 7 assists to lead the visitors. Liga Sorocabana fell at 2-5 record after the loss. The teams stayed tied at 43 after twenty minutes of action. However Bauru exploded with 30 points in the third term to take a 6-point lead. They protected well enough throughout the final quarter and sealed a narrow win at the end. John A. Thomas (198-G/F-82, college: Columbus St.) had 16 points, while DeAndre Coleman (201-F-86, college: S.Alabama) added 14 points for the visitors. Kenny Dawkins (175-G-87, college: Lamar) answered with 28 points for Liga Sorocabana. Desmond Holloway (190-G-88, college: Co.Carolina) had 23 points in the loss.
Inter Santos celebrated the first win at the second stage of the championship. They knocked down Suzano 93:77 on the road to climb at 1-8 record in Group A. Inter Santos overcame a 6-point deficit at halftime to upset the hosts. Jefferson Campos (190-G-91) fired 27 points to lead the visitors. Paulao Castro (212-C-79) added 15 points for Inter Santos. Michel Nascimento (208-C-78) answered with 22 points for Suzano. Rafael Fusco (192-F-78) had 12 points as the hosts slipped at 3-6 record.


Ricardo de Bem sign in Uruguay - by Paulo Freire

The uruguayan basketball has been growing in the recent years and with this, importing some players, including brazilians, the current champion team has Hatila Passos. Now another Brazilian will play basketball in Uruguay, another big man Ricardo de Bem (210-F/C-84, college: Oklahoma City)

The experienced athlete was announced officially on the Club Atletico Olimpia team. After a college career in Oklahoma and Texas, he had his professional experience in the Chile, Morocco, Portugal, in Brazil De Bem played for teams such as Ribeirao Preto, Guaruja, Vitoria e Jacare (his last Club).



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  CHINA   


2012 Fiba Asia Cup: China edge Macau in Day 5 opener - by Eurobasket News

China-Macau 106:46

China edge Macau in Day 5 opener of the Fiba Asia Cup in Tokyo. The Chinese team improved to 3-1 record after 106:46 win.
China started the game with 24-17 and added 23-13 in the second frame. The second half was a nightmare for Macau that saw 59 points in their basket. China won the third period 32-9 and finished the game with 27-7 in the last stanza. Duan JiangPeng (197-F-90) was the last to score in the game for 60-point victory.
Yan Cao (196-F-91) top-scored for the winners with 16 points, while Wang Zhelin (215-PF-94), Guo Ailun (192-SF-93) and Duan JiangPeng had 13 each. Zhao TaiLong (193-G/F-90) poured in 12 points in the winning effort. Fu In LAO replied with 12 points in the losing case and Ka Kin Iong (170-PG-87) as well as Hip Meng Lo (185-SF-93) nailed 9 apiece.

China: Yan Cao 16, Wang Zhelin 13, Guo Ailun 13, Duan JiangPeng 13, Zhao TaiLong 12
Macau: Fu In LAO 12, Ka Kin Iong 9, Hip Meng Lo 9


Liaoning brings in Josh Akognon for 2012/13 - by Eurobasket News

Liaoning brings in Josh Akognon for 2012/13.


Shanghai Sharks sign Elijah Millsap - by Eurobasket News

In their first significant player-related move of the summer, the Shanghai Sharks have brought in Elijah Millsap (198-G-87, agency: Interperformances, college: UAB), a 66 swingman who last played for the LA Defenders in the NBA D-League. Millsap, whose brother Paul plays for Utah Jazz, will be playing his first season in Chinese basketball.

A graduate of the University of Alabama, Millsap went undrafted in the 2010 NBA draft before getting picked up firstly by the Oklahoma City Thunder and then with the LA Lakers. He didnt play an NBA game for either team but saw extended time with both sides D-League organisations.

Millsaps last season in American basketball suggests that the Sharks have acquired themselves a decent starter for the upcoming CBA campaign. With the Defenders, he averaged 21.2 ppg (and shot close to 40% from three-point range in the process) along with 6.3 rpg and 3.2 apg, which was good enough to get him to the 2012 D-League All-Star game.

With one signing left- presumably a power forward- the Sharks are quickly and quietly putting the pieces together for what they hope will be another run at the playoffs this season.

Courtesy of http://sharkfinhoops.com


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  COLOMBIA   


ROSTER CHANGES IN BAYSIDE AND BUKAROS - by Victor Garcia

American Baysides forward Keith Thompson leaves the team, Thompson is flying back to his home in the United States to attend personal matters, Thompson was the best player of Bayside in the 6 games he played with the team.
Bukaros announced the addition of the Colombian power forward John Velez (2,00 - TCI), Velez who was free due to the Indervalle withdrawal was quickly contranted by Bukaros the strengthen their roster, with Velez the team got a solid rebounder and versatile forward.


ONCE CALDAS ADDS JACOB BLANKENSHIP - by Victor Garcia

Once Caldas currently 5-1 , second place in the standings added the american center Jacob "Jake" Blankenship (2,07 C- Southeastern NCAA3) to fill the hole in the middle after having fired Christopher Moore.
With the addition of Blankenship the team hopes are to get a defensive prescence in the middle, actually the Once Caldas is having a great backcourt with americans Thomas and Bangura but i needed of Blankenships size to fight in the paint against the big ones of Bukaros , Arrieros, Guerreros and Islanders.


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  DENMARK   

Standings - 1st Division

1st Division Standings
 1. Aarhus BF 0-0 
 2. ALBA 0-0 
 3. Amager BK 0-0 
 4. BMS Skovlunde 0-0 
 5. Falcon 0-0 
 6. Glostrup 0-0 
 7. Haderslev 0-0 
 8. Jonstrup 0-0 
 9. Koge BK 0-0 
 10. Lemvig 0-0 
 11. Stevnsgade 0-0 
 12. Virum 0-0 


Randers bring in Bonell Colas - by Eurobasket News

Randers strengthened their frontcourt prior to the start of the new season. They agreed on terms of contract with Bonell Colas (205-F-82, college: Florida). The forward is not new to the team. He played for Randers back in 2007/09 seasons. He then tallied 21.3 points and 10.2 rebounds per game. Bonell Colas was named All-Danish Ligaen Player of the Year in 2009. He also earned All-Danish Ligaen Honourable Mention in 2008. Last season Bonell Colas spent with Horsholm. The forward notched 16.2 points, 7.9 rebounds, 1.7 blocks and 1.4 assists per game for the 79ers. He was trumped All-Danish Ligaen Defensive Player of the Year. Bonell Colas participated at Ligaen All-Star Games in 2008, 2009, 2011 and 2012.


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  EL SALVADOR   


Wins for San Marcos and Chaleco - by Jaime Arevalo

San Marcos defeated UTEC 85-64 on saturday 15, keeping back the top of the table of Clausura Tournment. Another time more, its best players were Oscar Rivera (190-F-80) and Ernesto Oglivie (199-F-89), with 32 and 24 pts, respectively. Jorge Loucel (186-F-90) and Carlos Martinez (190-F-79) led UTEC with 13 pts apiece. In Another game of the same round, Chaleco prevailed over Roll Royce, 88-76.
The standings are now as follows

1. San Marcos 10
2. Denver 9
3. ExSal 9
4. UTEC 8
5. Chaleco 7
6. Leones 6
7. Delgadense 6
8. Roll Royce 5


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  ESTONIA   


Tarvas test Clarence Jackson - by Eurobasket News

Rakvere Tarvas are looking for the options to strengthen the roster. They recently invited Clarence Jackson (193-G-89, college: Siena) for try-outs. The guard spent the last season in Ukraine. He played for DniproAzot. The guard notched 12.5 points, 2.5 rebounds and 1.5 assists per game in Superleague. It was his first pro season. Clarence Jackson graduated from the Siena College in 2011. He notched 14.7 points, 3.1 boards, 1.7 assists and 1.2 steals per game in his senior season. Clarence Jackson was named MAAC Sixth Man of the Year in 2009. Next season the guard was named into All-MAAC 3rd Team.


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  EUROBASKET SUMMER LEAGUE   


Atlanta ESL Final Day and Championship Game! - by ESL News

Game 1, Court 1 (Playing for 3rd Place): France 82 Germany 67
Our first game of the morning came from two teams battling for 3rd place. It was a very close game throughout until France pulled away in end. France was led by Mike Dabney (203-F/C-88) who finished with 14 points, five rebounds and one assist, putting the final touches on a great ESL. Joel Smith also contributed with 11 points, three rebounds and two assists. In the loss, Germany was led by Brandon Sims (201-F/C) and Senario Hillman (185-PG-88, college: Alabama), finishing with 16 points, four rebounds and one assist and 12 points, three rebounds respectively.

Film: http://www.youtube.com/user/EurobasketAtlanta?feature=mhee

France-82, Anthony Sims (193-G/F, college: W.Florida), 6 pts, 4 rbs, 3 asts, Mike Dabney, 14 pts, 5 reb, 1 ast, Ervin Herron (196-F/G, college: So.Poly State), 10 pts, 1 reb, 1 asts, Trevor Niles 5 pts, 2 rebs, 1 asts, Oliver Hunter, 10 pts, 2 rbs, Derrick Darkis, 7 pts, 2 asts, Moses Edun 6 pts, 5 rbs, Joel Smith, 11 pts, 3 rbs, 2 asts, Tremayne Russell, 13pts, 1 ast
Germany-67, Derio Green, 7 pts, 2 rbs, Jeff Webb, 2 pts, 1 rb, 1 ast, Brandon Sims, 16 pts, 4 rebs, 1 ast, Senario Hillman, 12 pts, 3 rbs, Kenneth Willis, 7 pts, Dwight Gordon, 6 pts, 3 rebs, 3 asts, R.J. Jarrett 6 pts, 3 reb, 1 ast, Joshua Ayers, 8 pts, 2 rbs, 1 ast, P.J. Meyers, 6 pts, 4 rbs

Game 1, Court 2 (Playing for 7th & 8th Place): Greece 93 Russia 70
The other game of the morning was played by two teams that struggled the entire camp. Both teams came in with a 1-4 record, but from the jump, there was one team that came ready to play. Greece got out of the gate early and kept throwing punches throughout the entire game. They were led by Antonio Hester (198-F) who finished with 19 points and six rebounds. They also were led by Jeremy Buynums hot shooting, he finished with 15 points and 1 rebound. Russia in the loss, was led by Dwayne Harmanson who was on fire from the 3-point line.

Film: http://www.youtube.com/user/EurobasketAtlanta?feature=mhee

Greece-93, Jeremy Buynum, 15 pts, 1 rb, Mark Phillips (203-C), 2 pts, 1 reb, Antonio Hester, 19 pts, 6 rbs, Omare Kinsey (183-PG-85, college: Howard), 2 pts, Richard Lewis, 17 pts, 1 rb, 3 asts, Lucas Hackett, 3 pts, 1 ast, Jamarco Warren (180-G-88), 10 pts, 1 rb, 2 asts, Deshar Clipper, 10 pts, 1 rb, 1 ast, Sam Taub, 15 pts, 6 rbs
Russia-70, Steven Stohlman, 2 rbs, 1 ast, Corey Edmonson (188-G), 7 pts, Richard England, 12 pts, 5 rbs, Joesph James, 2 rbs, 1 ast, Dwayne Harmanson, 28 pts, 1 rb, 1 ast, Knenneth Moore, 12 pts, 2 rbs, Zach Payton, 11 pts, 2 rbs, 2 asts, Brice Kellogg, 1 ast.

Game 2, Court 2 (Playing for 5th & 6th Place): Italy 86 Spain 79
Another competitive game with Italy and Spain battling it out for 5th and 6th place and a battle it was. In the end, Italy came out with the victory being led by Donald Vaughns 28 points and five rebounds. Vaughn wasnt alone as Tim Giles (168-PG-87, college: Wilberforce) and Brandon Hickson contributed with 15 points and 13 points respectively. Spain was led by Daron Sims who had another great game with 25 ponits and 3 rebounds, but it wasnt enough as Italy pulled away in the end to take 5th place for the camp.

Film: http://www.youtube.com/user/EurobasketAtlanta?feature=mhee

Italy-86, Brandon Hickson, 13 pts, 2 rebs, 4 asts, Donald Vaughn, 28 pts, 5 reb, Lontrell Jackson 12 pts, 4 rebs, Eric Chwilliski, 6 pts, 1 rb, 1 ast, Sam Goodman, 10 pts, 1 reb, 1 ast, Tim Giles 15 pts, Emmanuel Williams, 2 pts.
Spain-79, Justin Monroe 14 pts, 5 rbs, 2 asts, Sidney Harris, 11 pts, Hector Genao 6 pts, 1 rb, 1 asts, Josh Spears, 7 pts, 1 rb, 1 ast, Maurice Stewart, 8pts, 8 rbs, Tyrell Timpson, 8 pts, 4 rbs, Daron Sims, 25 pts, 3 rbs.

Game 2, Court 1 (Championship Game): Ireland 81 England 69
In our championship game, we have Ireland coming into the contest undefeated with a 5-0 record and England right behind them with a 4-1 record. Ireland was led by Damier Pitts, who ended with 21 points, two rebounds and two assists. He also hit spectacular half-court shot to end the first half. Richard Francis chipped in 14 points and three rebounds to help contribute to the win. England was led by Brandon Armstrong, who had a breakout game, but it wasnt enough to lead them to the victory. It was a competitive game and a great way to cap off an exciting three days of camp.

Film: http://www.youtube.com/user/EurobasketAtlanta?feature=mhee

Ireland-81, Richard Francis, 14 pts, 3 rbs, Alain Muteba (193-G-87, agency: Mabra Austin Sports, college: Edinboro), 5 pts, 3 rbs, Adam Waldo, 2 pts, 2 rbs, 1 ast, Chris McHenry, 5 pts, 1 rb, 2 asts, Damier Pitts, 21 pts, 2 rbs, 2 asts, Brandon Long 14 pts, 1 ast, Andre Cornelius 13 pts, 3 rebs, 2 asts, Marquette Knight, 2 pts, 3 rbs, Marcus Travis, 5 pts, 2 rbs.
England-69, Stanley Honorat (189-G-86), 6 pts, 3 rbs, Justin Lockhart,1 rb, Steve Baker, 11 pts, 1 rb, Albert Abrahams, 9 pts, 3 rebs, Brandon Armstrong, 15 pts, 1 rb, 2 asts, Tre Cunningham, 2 rebs, Justin Chambers (196-G-91), 6 pts, 5 rbs, Brad Haugabrook, 10 pts, 2 rbs, 1 ast, Anthony Artega, 12 pts, 1 rb, 2 asts.


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


Artland Dragons sign PG Kristaps Valters, 2-month deal - by Eurobasket News

Kristaps Valters (190-G-81) will continue his career in Germany. The Latvian point guard penned a 2-month deal with Artland Dragons. He is brought in as replacement for injured Demond Mallet (186-G-78, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: McNeese St.). In case that Mallet needs more time to recover, the Dragons will also extend Valters.
Kristaps Valters played last season for Unicaja Malaga. He had 8.2 ppg and 3 apg for 13 games. The player also added 9.4 ppg and 2.4 apg for 29 games in Liga Endesa. Before Unicaja, Valters played one year for Fuenlabrada. The point guard registered 10.4 ppg, 4.5 apg and 2.7 rpg in 34 games. He also was their member in 2008/09. Meanwhile, Kristaps Valters played for Joventut Badalona. He played for the Latvian National Team from 1999 to 2009. Three years ago at the EuroBasket in Poland Valters had 9.5 ppg, 4.9 rpg and 4 apg for 8 games.


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  EUROLEAGUE   


Zalgiris Kaunas restricted from signing players - by Eurobasket News

Due to the recent decision by the FIBA Basketball Arbitral Tribunal (BAT) that BC Zalgiris Kaunas owes former coach Ilias Zouros (agency: Alti Sport) 156,000 euro in pay, FIBA has placed a restriction on Zalgiris from registering new players. Once the debt owed to Zouros is paid, the restriction will be lifted and Zalgiris will be allowed to sign new talent. The last player they signed was Jeff Foote on Sept. 7th

-
Earlier news: BAT rules for Zouros
FIBAs Basketball Arbitral Tribunal (BAT) has ruled in favor of Ilias Zouros in his claim against his former team, Zalgiris Kaunas. The ruling will mean that Zouros will receive 156,000 euro in compensation, his claim was for 300,000 euro. Zalgiris owner, Vladimir Romanov, fired Zouros after saying that team practices and assistant coaches werent properly supervised by Zouros. The ruling passed down by the BAT says that the decision to fire Zouros wasnt justified. The coach and club had an agreement that was to pay Zouros 33,000 euro a month for eight payment and a final two payments of 18,000 euro, but the payments stopped after the first was disbursed.

Courtesy of www.court-side.com


Carlos Jimenez returns to Unicaja, at least for one month - by Eurobasket News

Carlos Jimenez (205-F-76) postponed his retirement and returned to his former team Unicaja Malaga. The veteran forward penned a one-month deal, with option for another one. He should be temporarily replacement for injured Sergi Vidal (198-F/G-81). Carlos Jimenez played for Unicaja from 2006 to 2011. Last season he spent with Estudiantes, where he also played more than 10 years in the past. He averaged 5.1 ppg and 5.7 rpg for 29 games in Liga Endesa last season. With Unicaja in 2010/11 the player had 6 ppg and 4.7 rpg for 27 games in Spain. He also added 6.2 ppg and 4.3 rpg for 11 Euroleague appearances. This summer Carlos Jimenez played for the Spanish 3x3 Team at the World Championship in Greece. He was a member of the Spanish NT from 1998 to 2008.


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  FIBA ASIA CUP   

Standings

Standings
Group A
1. Philippine.3-1
2. China2-1
3. Lebanon2-1
4. Uzbekistan.1-2
5. Macau0-3
Group B
1. Iran3-0
2. Japan3-0
3. Qatar1-2
4. Taiwan1-2
5. India0-4

Preliminary Round: Round 4

A

Sep. 17: UZB - CHN 47-107
Sep. 17: MAC - PHI 46-98

B

Sep. 17: JPN - IND 90-72
Sep. 17: TAI - IRI 63-71

Preliminary Round: Round 5

A

Sep. 18: CHN - MAC
Sep. 18: LEB - UZB

B

Sep. 18: QAT - TAI
Sep. 18: IRI - JPN


Results and Stats from Day 4 in Tokyo - by Eurobasket News

Group A
Macau - Philippines 46-98
Philippines smashed Macau in Fiba Asia Cup in Tokyo. The team improved to 3-1 record in Group A after 98:46 victory, while Macau fell at 0-3 record. Philippines started the game with massive 33:14 burst and added 22-19 in the second period. Moreover the second half also belonged to the winning side. Philippines won the third period 28-8 and finished the game with 15-5. Jeffrei Chan (192-F-83) top-scored for the winners with 18 points and Jay-R Reyes (200-C-84) as well as Gary David (188-G/F-78) had 12 each. Ganuelas Matt and Dillinger Jared delivered 11 points each in a win. Fu In (178-SG-88) posted 14 points in the losing effort and Tong Fai Cheong (190-PG-93) scored 12. Lo Hip Meng collected 10 points and 12 rebounds, whilst Cai Shao Bing nailed 6. Tomorrow Philippines will have a Day-off, while Macau will face China.

Uzbekistan - China 47-107
China improve to 2-1 record in Group A after the victory over Uzbekistan at the 2012 Fiba Asia Cup. The Chinese team won 107:47 and sent the opponents to 1-2 record. China started the game with 21-11 and never looked behind after. They added massive 31-8 burst to take a 52:19 halftime advantage. Moreover China continued to dominate the second half as well. China won the third period 30-19 and finished the game with 25-9 in the last stanza. Zhao TaiLong (193-G/F-90) top-scored for the winners with 20 points and Duan JiangPeng (197-F-90) notched 17. Wang Zhelin delivered 16, while Wang Zirui had 14. Aleksandr Kozlov (201-F-82) ended up with 11 points in defeat and Juginisov Samender finished the game with 10.

Group B
Japan - India 90-72
Japan posted the third straight win at the start of Fiba Asia Cup. The hosts tamed India in Tokyo to remain on top of Group B. Kosuke Kanamaru (193-F/G-89) posted 26 points to lead the hosts. India suffered the fourth loss in a row. Japan exploded with 28 points in the opening quarter to surge ahead. They accumulated a 6-point lead at the first break. India managed to slow the home side down in the second quarter. India got within 3 points at halftime 41:44. But the third term proved the difference. Japan ignited a 23:13 rally to clear off to a 13-point distance. They maintained the lead throughout the fourth frame and sealed the victory at the end. J.R. Sakuragi (206-F/C-76, college: UCLA) notched 18 points and 9 rebounds, while Ryota Sakurai added 12 points for Japan. Vishesh Bhriguvanshi (193-G-91) answered with 21 points for India. Pethani Rikin netted 16 points in the loss.

Taiwan - Iran 63-71
Iran had to fight hard to achieve the third straight victory at Fiba Asia Cup. They survived a tough challenge from Taiwan to improve at 3-0 record on top of Group B. Samad Nik Khahbahrami (198-F-83) was a usual contributor for Iran scoring 24 points. Taiwan fell at 1-2 record after the loss. Taiwan enjoyed a 20:17 lead after ten minutes of action. They stretched the gap in the second frame. Taiwan accumulated a 39:29 halftime lead. But Iran turned things around after the big break. They went on a storming 27:12 rally to ensure a 5-point lead at the final intermission. Iran held Taiwan to 12 points in the fourth frame and claimed the third straight win at the tournament. Hamed Afagh (190-SG-83) delivered 13 points, while Oshin Sahakian added 7 points and 10 rebounds for Iran. Tien Lei (202-F-83) answered with 17 points for Taiwan. Tseng Wen-Ting had 11 points in the loss.


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

Standings - Division I

1st Division Standings
Division A
 1. BC Nokia 0-0 
 2. Huima 0-0 
 3. Oulun NMKY 0-0 
 4. Porvoon Tarmo 0-0 
 5. Pyrinto II 0-0 
 6. SayRi 0-0 
 7. Tapiolan Honka 0-0 
 8. ToPo 0-0 
 9. Ura Basket 0-0 
Division B
 1. BC Jyvaskyla 0-0 
 2. Espoo Basket 0-0 
 3. HBA-Marsky 0-0 
 4. Jarvenpaa 0-0 
 5. JyWe 0-0 
 6. KaU Koris 0-0 
 7. Kerava ET 0-0 
 8. TuNMKY 0-0 


1.DIVISION: Isaiah Tate in Porvoo, Finland - by Rauno Hurmalainen

American Guard Isaiah Tate (193-G-89, college: George Mason U.) was supposed to start his international basketball career in England, but the contract with Cheshire Jets was canceled and Tate is now in Porvoo, Finland. Tarmo (Porvoo) is testing Tate and the start looks very promising. Tate is a smart team player and a real sharpshooter. Tarmo has Jerrah Young (202-F-85, college: Toledo) on Center position and Team Coach Jouni Gronroos is still after American Forward. In Finland three foreigner players are allowed/team.


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  FRANCE   


Orleans signs 2-month deal with Ryan Ayers - by Eurobasket News

Ryan Ayers (201-SF-86, college: Notre Dame) is new member of Orleans. The player signed 2-month deal as medical joker. He will temporarily replace injured Dwayne Broyles (196-F/G-82, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: JMU).
Ryan Ayers arrives to the club from Boulazac. He appeared 40 times in ProB last season averaging 11 points and 2.6 rebounds. They reached Playoff Semifinals. Before Boulazac, the American spent one year with Finish Namika Lahti. There he had 17.6 ppg and 5.9 rpg in 43 games. His first year as a pro Ayers spent with the NBA D-League team Fort Wayne Mad Ants. He appeared 50 times in the league collecting 9.7 ppg and 3.5 rpg. Ryan Ayers is a product of Notre Dame University where he graduated three years ago. He had 11.1 ppg and 3.5 rpg for 36 games as a senior.


Limoges parts ways with Terence Dials, extends tryout period for Ty Walker - by Eurobasket News

Limoges parted ways with Terence Dials (206-F/C-83, college: Ohio St.), according to Basketnews.net. The player didn't pass the tryout. Also, Limoges extended tryout period for Ty Walker (213-C-89, college: Wake Forest).
Terence Dials plated last season for Taiwanese team Pure Youth Construction. Before that he played in China and Cyprus.
Ty Walker is a product of Wake Forest University, where he graduated few months ago. He had 4.2 ppg, 4.6 rpg and 2.6 bpg for 20 games as a senior. Walker spent all four years with Wake Forest. As a junior the player averaged 3.6 points, 3.5 rebounds and 2.5 blocks for 32 games. Earlier this summer Walker Ty participated at Tournoi de Tourcoing in France. He shined with 16.7 ppg, 11.4 rpg and 6.9 bpg for 5 games. The player also worked out with Memphis Grizzlies, Boston Celtics, Minnesota Timberwolves and Charlotte Bobcats, but he didn't get a deal. Walker Ty signed in China at the end of June. He had 16 ppg, 16 rpg, 4.7 bpg and 3.7 spg for 3 games with the NBL team Hong Kong Bulls.


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  FYR MACEDONIA   


MZT Skopje releases rookie Brandon Wood - by Eurobasket News

Brandon Wood (187-G-89, agency: N.E.T., college: Michigan St.) is no longer a member of MZT Skopje. The reigning FYR Macedonian champion released the player last week, before their trip to Sarajevo. The American rookie signed with MZT recently, but according to local media he did not meet expectations. The team is back on the market looking for combo guard to replace Wood.
Brandon Wood graduated at Michigan State University few months ago. He had 8.8 ppg, 2.8 rpg and 1.9 apg for 37 games. Michigan State won the Big Ten Tournament and reached NCAA Sweet 16. The player was named to Big Ten All-Tournament Team -12. Wood transferred to Michigan State in 2011 from Valparaiso University. He played for Valparaiso from 2009 to 2011. Before that Brandon Wood spent one year with Southern Illinois University.


MZT wins Mirza Delibasic tournament - by Eurobasket News


Champion of Macedonia with easy victory 89:62 in the final over host "Bosna"-Sarajevo won first place in the tournament dedicated to basketball legend Mirza Delibashik.

The players of the Coach , Alexander Todorov with conclusive 89:62 came up trophy "Mirza Delibashik" by instituting the start and pushing its advantage to the final 27 points difference.

Most Valuable Player of the tournament in Sarajevo by the organizer was named center of MZT Uros Nikolic (207-F/C-87) , who, after a great game against Split-Croatia,in the finals against Bosnia ended with 24 points. One point more than it scored Kejd Davis, while George Chekovski followed with 12 points.


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  GEORGIA   


Armia signs Lamayn Wilson - by Greg

BC Armia Tbilisi (Superleague) signed 32-year old American forward Lamayn Wilson (204-101kg-80, college: Troy). Wilson played last season at CEZ Nymburk in NBL league in Czech Republic. In 66 NBL games he had 12.9ppg, 5.3rpg, 1.1apg and 1.2spg. He helped them to win the championship title and the cup. A very impressive season as he was voted Eurobasket.com All-Czech Rep. League Forward of the Year and selected to the 1st Team.
Wilson is quite experienced player. He played also professionally in China, France (Cholet, ASVEL Lyon-Villeurbanne Basket and Sluc Nancy), Germany (EnBW Ludwigsburg, ), Italy (Pall. Cantu), Latvia, Philippines, Russia, Turkey (Turk Telekom), Ukraine (Budivelnyk) and USA (Cedar Rapids River Raiders ).
Wilson graduated from Troy University in 2002 and it will be his eleventh (!!!) season as a professional player.

By Eurobasket Data Center


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


Ratiopharm Ulm wins the SWG-Cup in Lich - by Eurobasket News

Ratiopharm Ulm wins the SWG-Cup in Lich.
In the decisive third game the team overcame Artland Dragons 99:74. Both teams scored 27 points each in the first period and then Ulm won the second frame 26:21. Moreover the second half belonged to the winning side. Ratiopharm Ulm won the third period 26-13 and finished the game with 20-13. Bryant top-scored for the winners with 23 points and Watts netted 15. Gunther scored 14, while Philipp Schwethelm (201-SF-89, agency: Pro One Sports) added 13. Marquez Haynes (191-G-86, college: Texas Arlington) answered with 16 points in defeat and Grunheid netted 11.
Earlier Ratiopharm Ulm beat Telenet Oostende 92:88. The game was tied at 83:83, while the German side pushed the tempo for good to win the game. Steven Esterkamp (198-F-81, agency: Limelight Hoops, college: Ohio) top-scored for the winners with 16 points and Watts netted 15. Dragisa Drobnjak (200-F-77, agency: Beo Basket) scored 18 points for the Belgian side and Petrovic had 13.
In the game versus LTi Giessen 46ers Philipp Schwethelm top-scored with 15 points and Gunther brought 11.


Kristaps Valters Returns To The Beko BBL Joining The Artland Dragons - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Kristaps Valters (190-G-81) is back in the Beko BBL having played there from 2004-2006 for the EWE Baskets Oldenburg and will play for the Artland Dragons filling in for injured Demond Mallet getting a two month contract with an option. Valters is a 30 year old 190cm guard from Latvia that is a very good point guard. Quick and good ballhandler. Likes fast breaks. Can pass the ball and good court penetration. Last season, he played for Unicaja Malaga (Spain-ACB): Euroleague: 13 games: 8.2ppg, 1.8rpg, 3.0apg, FGP: 41.4%, 3PT: 32.2%, FT: 72.2%; Spanish League: 29 games: 9.4ppg, 1.6rpg, 2.4apg, FGP: 51.8%, 3PT-3 (47.3%), FT: 81.9%. "We are happy to have found such a high quality player after such a long search to fill in for Demond. He has a lot of experience at a high level. He played in the strongest league ACB the last years. He also played in the Euroleague last season. He is fast, a good shooter and good pick and roll player", stressed Artland Dragons head coach Stefan Koch .

Valters started his basketball career in 1997 for LJI/VN - ASK Broceni/LMT Il. He got his first experience away from his home country in 2000 playing for Muratpasa Antalya (Turkey): 13.7ppg, 3.4rpg, 2.8apg. He played for : BK Skonto Riga from 2001-2004. He then played two seasons in Germany for the EWE Baskets Oldenburg. Hi strongest season there was his second where he played 34 games: 13.2ppg, 3.9rpg, 4.0apg, 1.4spg, 2FGP: 40.3%, 3PT: 35.4%, FT: 46.7%. In 2006-2007, he played for Amatori Snaidero Udine (Italy-SerieA): ULEB Cup: 12 games: 12.6ppg, 3.7rpg, 5.0apg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 57.8%, 3FGP: 45.9%, FT: 68.2%; Italian League: 26 games: 8.0ppg, 2.2rpg, 2.8apg, 0.9spg, 2FGP: 42.9%, 3PT: 50.0%, FT: 83.1%. In 2007-2008, he played for Legea Scafati Basket (Italy-SerieA, starting five), left before the season started, in Dec.'07 moved to Triumph Lyubertsy (Russia-A Superleague, starting five): ULEB Cup: 5 games: 6.4ppg, 2.0rpg, 2.2apg; Russian League: 8 games: 5.9ppg, 2.8rpg, 3.4apg, 2FGP: 66.7%, 3PT: 50.0%, FT: 50.0% . In 2008-2009, he played for Alta Gestion Fuenlabrada Madrid (Spain-ACB): 32 games: 11.1ppg, 3.2rpg, Assists-4 (4.8apg), FGP: 49.3%, 3PT-3 (48.0%), FT: 86.3%. In 2009-2010, he played for DKV Joventut Badalona (Spain-ACB, starting five): Spanish League: 33 games: 7.5ppg, 1.6rpg, Assists-4 (4.3apg), FGP: 45.0%, 3PT: 38.3%, FT: 85.1%; EuroCup: 12 games: 6.8ppg, 1.5rpg, Assists-2 (4.7apg), FGP: 47.1%, 3PT: 40.5%, FT: 87.5% . In 2010-2001 he played for Baloncesto Fuenlabrada (Spain-ACB, starting five): 34 games: 10.4ppg, 2.7rpg, Assists-4 (4.5apg), FGP: 50.4%, 3PT: 37.8%, FT: 87.0%. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been Latvian U18 National Team -97-98, Latvian U19 National Team -99, NEBL Finalist -99, Latvian League Champion -99, World Championships U19 -99, Latvian League All-Star Game -00, 03, Latvian National Team -99-03, 05-06, 08-09
European Championships -01, 03, Latvian League Finalist -02, 03, 04, Eurobasket.com All-Latvian League 1st Team -02, 03, Latvian All-Star Game 3points contest winner -03
Eurobasket.com All-Latvian LBL Guard of the Year -03, Eurobasket.com Latvian LBL All-Domestic Players Team -02, 03, 04, European Championships in Belgrade -05: 3 games: 11.0ppg, 2.7rpg, 2.7apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 28.6%, 3FGP: 30%, FT: 91.7%, Qualifications to European Championships 2009 -08: 6 games: 10.0ppg, 4.2rpg, Assists-3 (4.5apg), FGP: 45.8%, 3PT: 34.6%, FT: 73.3%, and European Championships in Poland -09: 8 games: 9.5ppg, 4.9rpg, 4.0apg, FGP: 36.7%, 3PT: 34.3%, FT: 62.1%

Source: Artland Dragons


Scott Dennis Joins The Finke Baskets - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber


PRO A team Finke Baskets have announced the signing of Scott Dennis (195-G-89, agency: KMG Sports Management). Dennis is a 196cm guard that was born in 1989 in Cincinnati, Ohio. He will start his professional basketball career in Germany after playing four years for Christian Brothers (NCAA2) from 2008-2012. The American was a key player for Christian Brothers (NCAA2) the last three years. In his senior year, he played 32 games: 15.9ppg, 9.2rpg, 4.0apg, 1.5spg, 1.0bpg, FG: 50.9%, 3Pts: 36.8%, FT: 87.0%. "WE have atop player from the NCAA2 with Scott Dennis. His unbelievable versatility will bring us to another level", stressed Finke Baskets head coach Thomas Glasauer. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been GSC West Division Regular Season Champion -09, GSC West Division Freshman of the Year -09, NCAA D2 Elite Eight -09, All-GSC West Division 2nd Team -10, GSC All-GSC West Division 2nd Team -11, All-GSC Co-Player of the Year -12, All-GSC 1st Team -12, GSC All-Tournament Team -12, GSC Regular Season Runner-Up -12
GSC Tournament Finalist -12, NABC Division II All-America Team -12, NABC Division II All-South Region 1st Team -12, NCAA D2 Sweet 16 -12, and NABC Division II All-Star Game -12


Source: Finke Baskets


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


Berend Weijs expected to sign contract with BC Apollo Amsterdam - by Fred Roggen

Dutch center Berend Weijs (208-C) is expected to sign with BC Apollo over the next few days, he is practicing with the team from Amsterdam. Berend Weijs arrives from the University of Maryland, where he averaged 1.9 points and 1.7 rebounds in 32 games in his senior year. He played two seasons for the Terps after finishing two years at Harcum junior college where he set a school record with 119 blocked shots in 27 games.



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


Adam Brown can be the 3rd import of BC Kormend - by Tamas Deri

The 193 cm tall american guard arrived yesterday to Hungary and will start his two weeks trial period with BC Kormend today. Adam Brown (193-G-88, college: Houston) graduated on the University of Houston in 2011 and used to be one of the best guards of the Cougars playing in the NCAA. As a junior he helped his team with 7.9 points and 2.0 rebounds per game and also winning the C-USA Tournament, as a senior he averaged 12.6ppg, 4.1rpg, 3.0apg, 1.0spg in 27 games. He signed his first professional contract with Cheshire Jets in the UK and was one of the best imports of the BBL adding 20.3 points (4th best scorer), 4.9 assists (2nd best), 4.6 rebounds and 2.1 steals (3rd best) in 38.1 minutes on the court.


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


2012 Fiba Asia Cup: Samad Nik Khahbahrami carries Iran past Taiwan - by Eurobasket News

Iran - Taiwan 71:63

Iran had to fight hard to achieve the third straight victory at Fiba Asia Cup. They survived a tough challenge from Taiwan to improve at 3-0 record on top of Group B. Samad Nik Khahbahrami (198-F-83) was a usual contributor for Iran scoring 24 points. Taiwan fell at 1-2 record after the loss.
Taiwan enjoyed a 20:17 lead after ten minutes of action. They stretched the gap in the second frame. Taiwan accumulated a 39:29 halftime lead. But Iran turned things around after the big break. They went on a storming 27:12 rally to ensure a 5-point lead at the final intermission. Iran held Taiwan to 12 points in the fourth frame and claimed the third straight win at the tournament. Hamed Afagh (190-SG-83) delivered 13 points, while Oshin Sahakian (200-F-86) added 7 points and 10 rebounds for Iran. Tien Lei (202-F-83) answered with 17 points for Taiwan. Tseng Wen-Ting (203-F/C-84) had 11 points in the loss.

Iran: Samad Nik Khahbahrami 24, Hamed Afagh 13, Oshin Sahakian 7+10 boards
Taiwan: Tien Lei 17, Tseng Wen-Ting 11


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


Sidigas Avellino wins Trofeo Galeo Energy - by Eurobasket News

Sidigas Avellino wins Trofeo Galeo Energy in Caserta. The team overcame Juve Caserta 71:67 in the Final game to clinch the trophy.
Juve Caserta started with 21-10 in the first period and led 34:28 at the halftime. The hosts enjoyed 50:41 advantage after three quarters, while Sidigas Avellino tied the game at 58:58 and sent the teams to overtime. In extra time the guests posted 13-9 surge to win the game. Dwight Hardy (188-PG-87, college: St.John's) top-scored for the winners with 20 points and Richardson scored 11. Mavreides posted 10, while Ebi nailed 8. Zygimintas Jonusas (200-F-82) answered with 13 points in the losing effort.
In the first game Sidigas Avellino outscored Reyer Venezia 75:61. Richardson top-scored for the winners with 18 points, while Dwight Hardy and Crow had 11 each. Clark and Williams replied with 17 points each in the losing effort. Tommaso Fantoni (203-F/C-85, agency: Players Group) posted 7, while Diawara and Young brought 6 each.


Roberto Rullo joins Capo d'Orlando - by Eurobasket News

Capo d'Orlando signed a 2-month deal with Roberto Rullo (192-G-90). The Italian squad also has an option to keep the player for rest of the season. Rullo played for Prima Veroli in 2011/12. He had 6.7 ppg and 1.5 rpg for 32 LegaDue games. The player joined Prima Veroli in April of 2011 and he finished 2010/11 season there as well. He started it with Banca Tercas Teramo registering 2.8 ppg in 20 SerieA appearances. In the past, Roberto Rullo spent one year with UCC Casalpusterlengo and two with Benetton Treviso. He also has experience from Imola and MPS Vita Virtus Siena. In 2008, 2009 and 2010 Rullo played for Italian U20 National Team. They reached Semifinals at U20 EuroBasket in Rhodes three years ago.


Mustafa Shakur announces his signing with Sidigas Avellino - by Eurobasket News

Mustafa Shakur (193-G-84, college: Arizona) is a new member of Sidigas Avellino. Shakur announced via Twitter that he will play for Avelino next season. He replaces Marques Green, who left for Cedevita earlier this summer.

Mustafa Shakur: 'Officially headed to Avellino'

Mustafa Shakur finished last season with Novipiu Casale Monferrato. He appeared 21 times in SerieA averaging 16 points, 4.3 assists and 3.8 rebounds. The player started 2011/12 with Elan Bearnais Pau-Lacq-Orthez. With them he had 9.7 ppg, 4.5 rpg and 4.2 apg for 6 games in French ProA. Mustafa Shakur played for the Washington Wizards in 2010/11 season. Actually, he joined them in January of 2011 registering 2.3 ppg and 1.1 apg for 22 NBA games. In the past, he played in NBA D-League, Greece, Spain and Poland. Mustafa Shakur graduated at the University of Arizona in 2007.


Givova Scafati close to sign Ron Slay and to release Jamel McLean - by Eurobasket News

Ronald Slay (203-F-81, agency: David Lee services, college: Tennessee) could become a new member of Givova Scafati very soon. According to various sources, two sides already agreed terms. However, nothing is officially confirmed yet. Slay played for Avelino last season. He joined them in October collecting 11.9 ppg and 5.4 rpg for 30 games. The American started the season with Bulgarian Levski, but left them after one game. In 2010/11 he was a member of Varese. There, the player averaged 13.6 points and 6.2 rebounds for 32 games. He played for Varese also in 2009/10, but missed most of the season due to injury. In the past, Ronald Slay played for Caserta, Scavolini and Montegranaro. He also has experience from Israel, Spain, Puerto Rico, NBA D-Legaue and Venezuela. He graduated at the University Tennessee nine years ago.

The team is expected to release Jamel McLean (203-F-88, college: Xavier).


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


Panasonic announces its final season - by John Scribe

Today, Panasonic announced that the Panasonic Trians basketball team and its badminton team will playing its final season.

Panasonic, which operates rugby, volleyball, badminton, basketball and baseball teams announced that its basketball and badminton teams will be folding
because of the parent companies' financial struggles.

According to reports from numerous media outlets, Panasonic operated on a deficit equivalent to 9.8 billion U.S. dollars in the previous fiscal period.
The folding of the team is part of the companies' plans to reduce operational costs; including laying off many employees.

Panasonic, which established its basketball program in 1952, has been part of the JBL for decades and was a powerhouse. The team has won a total of 13 basketball titles.
The team has not won a title as of late, but has proven to be a solid team that has been a perennial playoff and championship contender in its recent years.

The JBL is planning to start its new league next season and will feature new professional-based teams based in locations such as Tsukuba and Kumamoto.
JBL2 teams such as Kagoshima, Hyogo are scheduled to join the new league. The Chiba Jets from the basketball japan (bj) league--which is Japan's only all-professional circuit--will defect and join the new league.

The new league's name will be announced at a later date.



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


Artland Dragons sign PG Kristaps Valters, 2-month deal - by Eurobasket News

Kristaps Valters (190-G-81) will continue his career in Germany. The Latvian point guard penned a 2-month deal with Artland Dragons. He is brought in as replacement for injured Demond Mallet (186-G-78, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: McNeese St.). In case that Mallet needs more time to recover, the Dragons will also extend Valters.
Kristaps Valters played last season for Unicaja Malaga. He had 8.2 ppg and 3 apg for 13 games. The player also added 9.4 ppg and 2.4 apg for 29 games in Liga Endesa. Before Unicaja, Valters played one year for Fuenlabrada. The point guard registered 10.4 ppg, 4.5 apg and 2.7 rpg in 34 games. He also was their member in 2008/09. Meanwhile, Kristaps Valters played for Joventut Badalona. He played for the Latvian National Team from 1999 to 2009. Three years ago at the EuroBasket in Poland Valters had 9.5 ppg, 4.9 rpg and 4 apg for 8 games.


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


Siauliai returns Saulius Kuzminskas - by Eurobasket News

Saulius Kuzminskas (210-C/F-82, college: California) is back to Siauliai for the upcoming season. The Lithuanian big guy played for Siauliai from 2001 to 2003 and later from 2007 to 2009. Last season Kuzminskas finished with Trefl Sopot. He joined them in January averaging 3.5 points and 2.3 rebounds in 24 games. They won Polish Cup together and reached PLK Finals. Before Trefl Sopot, the player spent few months with Rudupis Prienu. There he registered 5.3 ppg and 4.8 rpg in 4 LKL games, plus 4.7 rpg and 4 rpg for 3 appearances in Baltic league. Kuzminskas started the season with Italian Vanoli Cremona, but they parted ways after 3 games. In 2010/11, Saulius Kuzminskas played for Ventspils. In the past, he was a member of Oldenburg, Union Olimpija, Gravelines and Lietuvos Rytas.


Zalgiris Kaunas restricted from signing players - by Eurobasket News

Due to the recent decision by the FIBA Basketball Arbitral Tribunal (BAT) that BC Zalgiris Kaunas owes former coach Ilias Zouros (agency: Alti Sport) 156,000 euro in pay, FIBA has placed a restriction on Zalgiris from registering new players. Once the debt owed to Zouros is paid, the restriction will be lifted and Zalgiris will be allowed to sign new talent. The last player they signed was Jeff Foote on Sept. 7th

-
Earlier news: BAT rules for Zouros
FIBAs Basketball Arbitral Tribunal (BAT) has ruled in favor of Ilias Zouros in his claim against his former team, Zalgiris Kaunas. The ruling will mean that Zouros will receive 156,000 euro in compensation, his claim was for 300,000 euro. Zalgiris owner, Vladimir Romanov, fired Zouros after saying that team practices and assistant coaches werent properly supervised by Zouros. The ruling passed down by the BAT says that the decision to fire Zouros wasnt justified. The coach and club had an agreement that was to pay Zouros 33,000 euro a month for eight payment and a final two payments of 18,000 euro, but the payments stopped after the first was disbursed.

Courtesy of www.court-side.com


Zalgiris claim SuperCup title - by Eurobasket News

Lietuvos Rytas - Zalgiris 87:87

Zalgiris clinched the first trophy of the new season. They managed to draw the return leg game against Lietuvos Rytas in Vilnius to claim an aggregate victory for the SuperCup trophy. The first game ended with Zalgiris earning an 89:71 win. Ksistof Lavrinovic (210-C-79) posted 16 points to lead Zalgiris today.
Lietyvos Rytas stayed ahead throughout the first half. They posted a 17:14 lead. Soon the hosts boosted the margin to 8 points 37:29. Zalgiris however cut the deficit to just a single point 42:43 at halftime. The teams stayed close throughout the third term. Zalgiris and Lietuvos Rytas entered the fourth period tied at 62. Janis Blums (191-SG-82) and Katelynas put the hosts in front early in the fourth frame. But soon Zalgiris denied the deficit. The teams went neck and neck before Janis Blums made it 87:84 for Lietuvos Rytas. However the hosts could not snatch the victory. Marko Popovic (185-G-82, agency: Alti Sport, college: S.Idaho JC) drained a big buzzer-beating three-pointer to end the game in a draw. Leon Radosevic (206-C-90) posted 20 points for Lietuvos Rytas. Renaldas Seibutis (198-SG-85) added 13 points for the winners. Marko Popovic answered with 14 points, 7 assists and 6 boards for Zalgiris.

Lietuvos Rytas: Leon Radosevic 20, Renaldas Seibutis 13, Janis Blums 12
Zalgiris: Ksistof Lavrinovic 20, Marko Popovic 14, Darjus Lavrinovic 12, Jeff Foote 12


*****************************************************
  MACAU   


2012 Fiba Asia Cup: China edge Macau in Day 5 opener - by Eurobasket News

China-Macau 106:46

China edge Macau in Day 5 opener of the Fiba Asia Cup in Tokyo. The Chinese team improved to 3-1 record after 106:46 win.
China started the game with 24-17 and added 23-13 in the second frame. The second half was a nightmare for Macau that saw 59 points in their basket. China won the third period 32-9 and finished the game with 27-7 in the last stanza. Duan JiangPeng (197-F-90) was the last to score in the game for 60-point victory.
Yan Cao (196-F-91) top-scored for the winners with 16 points, while Wang Zhelin (215-PF-94), Guo Ailun (192-SF-93) and Duan JiangPeng had 13 each. Zhao TaiLong (193-G/F-90) poured in 12 points in the winning effort. Fu In LAO replied with 12 points in the losing case and Ka Kin Iong (170-PG-87) as well as Hip Meng Lo (185-SF-93) nailed 9 apiece.

China: Yan Cao 16, Wang Zhelin 13, Guo Ailun 13, Duan JiangPeng 13, Zhao TaiLong 12
Macau: Fu In LAO 12, Ka Kin Iong 9, Hip Meng Lo 9


*****************************************************
  MEXICO   

Standings - LNBP

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

Regular Season: Round 5

Sep. 15: Abejas - Gigantes 99-83
Sep. 15: Halc.Xalapa - Pioneros 90-81
Sep. 15: Corr.Victoria - Gansos 87-82
Sep. 15: Lechugueros - Osos 81-74
Sep. 15: Barreteros - Toros 72-64
Sep. 15: Halc.Rojos - Soles 70-67
Sep. 15: Huracanes - Guerreros 102-85
Sep. 15: Panteras - Fuerza Regia 100-94

Regular Season: Round 6

Sep. 20: Pioneros - Panteras
Sep. 20: Soles - Barreteros
Sep. 20: Guerreros - Lechugueros
Sep. 20: Gansos - Abejas
Sep. 21: Toros - Halc.Rojos
Sep. 21: Fuerza Regia - Halc.Xalapa
Sep. 20: Gigantes - Corr.Victoria
Sep. 20: Osos - Huracanes



*****************************************************
  MONTENEGRO   


Exclusive interview with Gerald Lee, the latest signing of Buducnost Podgorica and member of Finnish National Team - by Darko Pekic

The US-Finnish center Gerald Lee (208-C-87, college: ODU) , the latest signing of Buducnost who is expected to replace Bojan Dubljevic (205-PF-91, agency: Beo Basket) talks for eurobasket.com about his National Team experience, expectations in Montenegro and college experience.

Hello Gerald, you were born in Finland but your roots are in United States of America. Could you tell us more about you beginnings? Was basketball your first choice or you were more familiar with some of the sports played in Finland like ice hockey? How did it all start?

Well my dad side of the roots are from America but my moms side of the roots are from finland. I was born and raised in finland and only went to college in the States. I started playing basketball when I was really young but I also played other sports like Ice hockey, soccer and golf.

Your father Gerald Lee came to Finland in the 70s to play basketball. In the meantime, he became one of the best scorers ever in Finland and member of Finnish National Team. How important were his advices in your career?

My dads advices are the main reason I am what I am. His knowledge of the game and advices to me have been really important to me. He still watches my games and gives me tips after games.

After a couple of seasons in youth teams you went back to the roots and joined Old Dominion University where before you have played well known NBA veterans such as Chris Gatling (208-F-67, college: ODU) or Mark West (209-C-60, college: ODU). How did you choose ODU? Did your father influence your decision?

I had a quite of few schools interested in me when I was choosing the school to go to and I went on visits and liked ODU the best. My dad didnt have any influence on my decision with the school. He just said what he thought about the different options.

At Old Dominion you had four great seasons and where one of the team leaders. You averaged 14.8 ppg and 4.8 rpg but it was not good enough to make it in the NBA. Did you consider your return to Europe as a step back in your career or just as a natural step in your career? How come you ended up in Italian Division II considering your good reputation?

I had some good seasons with The Monarchs and I dont look at coming back to Europe being as a set back. Italian second league is a good league with very good players. I got offers from other leagues too but decided to play in legadue.

After two very solid seasons in Italian league this year you got a chance at the higher level and joined Buducnost. You will play in four competitions (National Championship and Cup, Adriatic League and Eurocup). Do you think you are ready to step up and be a leader even at the higher level? In Buducnost you will have to replace Bojan Dubljevic who went to Spain, but has left a great impression in Podgorica.

I am very excited to play for Buducnost and have heard only good things about the club and city of Podgorica. I think that I can play well on the team and the other players are very talented. I have a lot of respect towards Bojan Dubljevic and he is a great player. One of the best big men in Europe. He will be hard to replace.

Did you something about Montenegrin basketball before you decided to join Buducnost?

I knew that Montenegro is a great basketball country with really good players. I knew that Buducnost is a great organization and a team. And the head coach is really good. I have a lot of respect towards him and he has done amazing things with the teams that he has coached.

You joined the team few days ago. What are your first impressions?

First impressions are that the players on the team are really good and talented and the coaching staff if excellent. Also the other people in the organization have taken care of business very well.

What do you expect from the next season?

I expect to put my individual goals aside and concentrate on the team goals which are winning as many games as possible.

Your National Team qualified for the European Championships in Slovenia next year. There will be also Montenegro and you have a nice experience with the Falcons because you eliminated them last year in Lithuania at the European Championships. Would you like to have them again in your group?

Whatever group Montenegro is in is going to be tough because they have an excellent national team and did amazing things this summer by going 10-0 in a very hard group.

Thank you Gerald for this interview. Eurobasket.com wishes you a great season in Podgorica and many individual and team success.

Thank you.


*****************************************************
  NBA   


NBA tax may soon be a luxury Lakers can't afford - by Eurobasket News

This season, payroll and luxury taxes will cost the Lakers $128 million. But when the league's stiffer taxes take effect in the 2013-14 season, keeping the Lakers' core together could cost nearly $200 million.

Let me tell you how it will be,

There's one for you, 19 for me,

'Cause I'm the Taxman

The Beatles

It won't be long before $128 million doesn't buy the Lakers what it used to.

Like, by next season.

This season, that amount will cover the 2012-13 payroll and associated luxury taxes for a roster dripping with superstars Dwight Howard (6'11''-C-85), Kobe Bryant (6'6''-SG-78), Steve Nash (6'3''-PG-74, college: Santa Clara) and Pau Gasol (7'0''-F/C-80).

A year from now, it could pay for only a portion of that same roster and maybe a pair of Bryant's high-end sneakers. Keeping the core of the Lakers together could cost nearly $200 million.

Thanks, new collective bargaining agreement.

NBA owners who like to pair eight-figure player salaries with their caviar are bracing for the party pooper known as more punitive luxury taxes, set to arrive in the 2013-14 season. Designed to expand the league's middle class and reduce the number of bloated contracts, the tax may force big spenders such as the Lakers to reconsider just how much they are willing to lavish on star players.

Then again, Jerry Buss has never been known to skimp on headliners, much less parade confetti, in his 33 years as Lakers owner.

"My feeling is that we'll continue to pursue the top players in the league," Lakers General Manager Mitch Kupchak said. "There will always be an emphasis on having the franchise be able to survive and prosper."

Even so, the cost of success is about to go up and up and up.

This is the last season the Lakers will pay a dollar-for-dollar penalty for exceeding the luxury-tax threshold, meaning that their league-high payroll of $99.2 million will cost them an additional $28.9 million in taxes, because that's how far they are above the $70.3-million tax level. The tax will raise the tab for their player costs to $128 million.

Starting next season, the tax burden gets significantly heavier. NBA teams must pay a $1.50-to-$1 ratio for the first $4.99 million they are over the luxury-tax threshold, a $1.75-to-$1 ratio for being $5 million to $9.99 million above the threshold, a $2.50 ratio for $10 million to $14.99 million over, and a $3.25 ratio for $15 million to $19.99 million beyond the threshold.

Teams that are $20 million or more over the tax level accrue additional penalties, increasing by 50 cents per dollar for every $5 million.

Those extra pennies can add up to millions, particularly for teams with multiple all-stars.

"All of these penalties are designed to try to change behavior and the thinking of the people that make the decisions and to try to make the cost of making the decisions outside the parameters more painful," said Peter Guber, co-owner of the Golden State Warriors. "How it will play out, you never know until you see it whether it changes the culture as well as the metrics."

The Lakers already have $79.6 million committed to eight players for the 2013-14 season. Assuming they re-sign Howard next summer to a maximum contract that calls for him to make $20.5 million in the first year, that bumps the Lakers payroll over $100 million.

If their final payroll was $105 million, that would put them $32 million over the league's projected tax threshold of $73 million, triggering a tax of $94.5 million and putting the team on the hook for a staggering total of $199.5 million a 55.9% increase over the total for this season with essentially the same group of core players.

"The prohibitive luxury tax makes it so only the super-rich are going to be able to continue to spend at their current levels," said Larry Coon, an independent expert on the collective bargaining agreement who is also an IT director at UC Irvine, "so you're going to end up with a couple of haves and a lot of have-nots."

Mitigating the Lakers' financial outlay to some extent will be the team's 25-year, $5-billion deal with Time Warner Cable that is set to pay the team roughly $120 million in the first year of the broadcasting rights deal, which starts in the 2012-13 season. That is the type of deal smaller-market teams can't match.

Kupchak pointed out that the Lakers also will pay a portion of the Time Warner deal back to the league in revenue sharing, but that is a trade-off most teams would happily make.

The Lakers have one untapped financial tool at their disposal, designed to help teams reduce their luxury tax burdens: the so-called amnesty clause. It allows teams to waive one player, paying his salary while being relieved of the associated tax costs.

The only Lakers who can be waived via the amnesty clause per league rules are Bryant, Gasol, Metta World Peace or Steve Blake. That makes World Peace the most likely candidate to be cut because the erratic small forward is owed $7.7 million in 2013-14, when he will be 34.

Whether to waive World Peace could be a $31-million question for the Lakers. That's the amount Coon estimated the team could save in taxes by severing ties to World Peace and replacing him with a player making the league minimum salary.

So long, World Peace? Not necessarily.

"We haven't used it for a reason and that's because we like this team," Kupchak said of the amnesty clause. "We think this team could win and that's what this organization wants to do. If at some point, we're not winning and players aren't performing, we'll look at our options."

The Lakers must also decide whether they are willing to be considered repeat offenders in the eyes of the league's tax collectors. Beginning with the 2014-15 season, teams that were taxpayers in each of the previous three seasons will activate a "repeater tax," an additional dollar-for-dollar charge tacked onto existing penalties.

The only Laker under contract two seasons from now is Nash, giving the Lakers some time to figure out their fiscal philosophy. By then, they could face previously unfathomable issues such as whether they can afford to re-sign Bryant without asking the longtime face of the franchise to take a steep discount.

General managers throughout the league are already having to be more mindful of payroll and the manner in which they construct their rosters. The collective bargaining agreement places greater restrictions on the salaries taxpaying teams can receive in trades, takes away certain exceptions that allow them to sign free agents and will eliminate their ability to receive players via sign-and-trade deals starting with the 2013-14 season, giving even free-spending teams less flexibility.

"I think the competitive issues are more impactful than the money," Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban wrote in an email. "No sign and trades and other limits can really hurt how [you] build a team."

Ultimately for the Lakers, the urge to hoist banners may trump the desire to raise profits.

"Whenever I've talked to [Buss] about a budget, it's always kind of, 'Well, Mitch, we have a budget, but tell me who you're thinking about and I'll tell you if I want him,' " Kupchak said. "So yes, the budget and tax threshold is something we're going to pay attention to, but he's always understood the value and allure of a superstar and a team that wins."

Courtesy of www.latimes.com


Nets sign Stephen Dennis, James Mays, Carleton Scott to training camp roster - by Eurobasket News

The Brooklyn Nets have signed free agents Stephen Dennis (6'6''-G-87, college: Kutztown), James Mays (6'9''-F-86, college: Clemson), and Carleton Scott (6'7''-F-88, college: Notre Dame), Nets General Manager Billy King announced today. Per team policy, terms of the agreements were not released. All three players played overseas last season. The Nets training camp roster stands at 18 players.

Dennis, a 66 guard, spent four years at Kutztown University. In his senior season he averaged 26.6 points per game and was named to the Division II All-American Team. After college, Dennis played for the Bakersfield Jam in the NBA D-League, where in 51 games he averaged 18.5 points, 6.9 assists and 5.6 rebounds. The West Chester, PA native then spent the 2011-12 season in Germany playing for the New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig, where in 18 contests he averaged 8.4 points, 2.7 rebounds and 2.5 assists in 22.1 minutes per game. Dennis shot .424 from the field, including .304 from three-point range and .731 from the free-throw line. Dennis was a member of the Nets 2012 summer league team.

Mays, a 69 forward, spent four years at Clemson University. After his senior season, he was the second overall pick by the Colorado 14ers in the 2008 NBA D-League Draft. In 12 games with Colorado, Mays averaged 18.7 points, 8.7 rebounds and 1.9 assists. During the 2009-10 season, Mays played for the Shougang Beijing Ducks in China, where he averaged 26.0 points and 13.2 rebounds per game. During the 2010-11 campaign he played in the NBA Summer League for both the Indiana Pacers and the Toronto Raptors. The Garner, NC native then went back overseas and played for Oyak Renault Bursa (Turkey), where he averaged 17.2 points and 9.0 rebounds per game. Mays spent the 2011-12 season with Mersin Buyuksehir Beldiyesi (Turkey), where he averaged 10.8 points and 6.0 rebounds, and Captanes de Arecibo (Puerto Rico), where he averaged 2.2 points and 3.2 rebounds in eight minutes per game.

Scott, a 68 forward, played three years at the University of Notre Dame. Named the 2010 Co-Most Improved Player. After graduating in 2011, Scott went to Austria and played for the UBC Carefuel Gussing Knights. In 27 contests with the Knights he averaged 13.6 points, 6.6 rebounds and 0.9 blocks in 25.9 minutes per game. He shot .494 from the field, including .294 from three-point range and .730 from the free-throw line. Scott was a member of the Nets 2012 summer league team.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com


Miami Heat sign Josh Harrellson - by Eurobasket News

The Miami Heat added depth to its frontcourt Monday, signing free agent center Josh Harrellson (6'10''-F-89, college: Kentucky). The 6-foot-10-inch and 275-pound big man will compete for a spot on the bench to back up Chris Bosh when Heat training camp opens later this month.

Harrellson appeared in 37 games for the New York Knicks in 2011-12, his first NBA season. He averaged 4.4 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 0.5 blocks per game in limited action (starting four games for the Knicks and averaging 14.6 minutes per game).

Harrellson was selected by the New Orleans in the second round of the 2011 NBA Draft and traded to New York immediately thereafter. The Knicks sent him to Houston as part of the Marcus Camby trade this summer, but the Rockets released him after the trade.

Harrellson played three years at the University of Kentucky after transferring from Southwest Illinois College. He appeared in 94 games at Kentucky (with 40 starts), averaging 4.7 points and 4.7 rebounds a game.

Courtesy of www.nbcmiami.com


Louisville officials stage meeting to consider NBA team - by Eurobasket News

Former Cardinals star Ulysses Junior Bridgeman has big plans for Louisville, the city he returned to after a successful 12-year professional career with the Milwaukee Bucks and Los Angeles Clippers.

The first step took place Friday when Bridgeman brought together a group of community leaders, including Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer, to speak about the benefits of bringing an NBA team to Louisville, according to The Courier-Journal.

About 20 people gathered at the first meeting to determine whether Louisville had the level of interest and conditions necessary to attract a team, Fischer said in a statement.

There was a lot of excitement in the room about what an NBA team could mean for Louisville's global recognition and as a job attractor and economic engine. There are many elements involved in a journey such as this, Fischer said. This must be a win for the University of Louisville, as well as other stakeholders. I'm excited to be part of the dialogue and I continue to believe we should be ready if an opportunity presents itself.

And while Phil Miller, a Fisher spokesman, said no active deal with a team is in the works, the wheels are turning.

In order for them to keep rolling, however, plans for a professional team must mesh with the University of Louisville, and the school must be willing to share the KFC Yum! Center with the new team.

Louisville spokesman Mark Herbet told the newspaper no one from the university was invited to the meeting. He did mention the school would keep an open mind in the future.

Right now the University of Louisville is the main tenant in that building, and we would certainly consider a proposal when it comes down the pike, he said.

People with Louisvilles interest in mind were at the meeting, namely Louisville Arena Authority attorney Ed Glasscock.

It remains to be seen whether we will have the opportunity to pursue an NBA team, but certainly Mayor Fischer is providing the leadership to move our community to the next level with professional sports in the future, Glasscock said to The Courier-Journal.

Bridgeman did not respond to messages from The Courier-Journal seeking comment. But attorney J. Bruce Miller, the leader of previous Louisville efforts to lure a team, told The Courier-Journal no decisions were made in the meeting. Still, he noted that the next step is to find a majority investor to buy a team to bring in to Louisville.

If that kind of opportunity can be generated by us, I would hope and would expect the university to be an appropriate community citizen here, Miller said.

Courtesy of http://aol.sportingnews.com


Adam Morrison invited to Trail Blazers training camp - by Eurobasket News

It wouldn't be a Portland Trail Blazers training camp without a major draft bust, now, would it?

Greg Oden may have moved on, but the Blazers are bringing in former No. 3 overall pick Adam Morrison (6'8''-SF-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Gonzaga) on a make-good contract for the team's training camp.

Morrison, a two-time NBA champion*, has appeared in only 161 NBA games for the Charlotte Bobcats and Los Angeles Lakers, averaging 7.5 points and 2.1 rebounds per game.

After leaving the Lakers in 2010, Morrison played professionally in Russia and Turkey. Morrison played for the Clippers' summer-league team this year in Las Vegas, averaging 20.0 points and 5.0 rebounds.

Morrison, 28, never found his footing in the league after being picked third by the Bobcats in 2006. Coming out of Gonzaga as a prolific college scorer and drawing comparisons to Larry Bird, Morrison was disappointing as a rookie and suffered a major knee injury his second season, quickly watching his NBA career dissolve. He struggled defensively, and while always maintaining an excellent outside touch, couldn't find the same scoring rhythm he had in college.

But he clearly hasn't just packed in his basketball career, and after an impressive summer with the Clippers, he has another NBA shot. The guy can play. His scoring in college, where he averaged 28.1 ppg in 2005-06, wasn't a fluke. He's just had trouble transitioning his game to the NBA.

Morrison actually has a reasonable shot at making the Blazers, though. With Elliot Williams being lost with an Achilles injury and the Blazers having only 15 players under contract, including Williams, there's a chance Morrison could make the team. After his solid showing with the Clippers, it was thought he'd have a chance at their roster, but the Clips ended those thoughts by signing Matt Barnes.

Morrison might be a major disappointment, but he's still trying to find his place in the NBA. And why not the Blazers? As a franchise with a history of huge draft disappointments, wouldn't it be something for one of the biggest ever to find redemption there?

Courtesy of www.cbssports.com


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


08 Stockholm signs rookie Isiah Brown and young Johan Kulin - by Eurobasket News

08 Stockholm signed Isiah Brown (203-F-89) and Johan Kulin (196-F-93) for the upcoming season.
This is the first pro deal for American forward Isiah Brown, who graduated few months ago at East Tennessee State University. He had 12.4 ppg and 5.9 rpg for his school in 31 games as a senior. They reached A-Sun Tournament Semifinals. Brown received one extra year of eligibility, so he spent five seasons with East Tennessee State University. The player was constantly improving every year. He started with 4.7 ppg and 4.6 in 2008/09 and after that registered 7.8 ppg and 5.6 rpg. As a junior the player had 10.3 ppg and 7.2 rpg for 36 games.
Johan Kulin most recently played for BG Fryshuset Stockholm. In the past, he played for Swedish U16 NT.
08 Stockholm competes in Swedish top division for men - Basketligan.


*****************************************************
  PHILIPPINES   


Day 4 of the 2012 FIBA Asia Cup - by Enzo Flojo

After going through the wringer in its first two assignments, the Philippines ended their elimination round in a breeze, blasting Macau a day after dumping Uzbekistan. Matt Ganuelas Rosser continued to shine for Coach Chot Reyes, as the Fil-American from Cal Poly Pomona produced a near-triple-double line. In other games, China got its second win at the expense of the Uzbeks, Japan leaned on a strong second half to beat India, and Iran had to scramble to win against Taiwan.

PHILIPPINES over MACAU, 98-46
Marcus Douthit sat out this match, but his teammates never needed him anyway. With Jeff Chan continuing to sizzle from long range, Jay-R Reyes holding his own down low, and Matt Rosser posting eye-popping numbers, the SMART-Gilas boys of Coach Chot Reyes coasted in their conquest of the Macanese. Chan converted 7 of his 11 field goals, including 4 triples, to lead all scorers with 18 points, while Jay-R Reyes ruled the paint with 12 markers and 9 boards. Rosser, for his part, scored 11 points, grabbed 9 rebounds, and had 9 dimes for an incredible almost-triple-double performance. Hes been given the green light to make plays by Coach Chot, and the youngster has clearly made the most of his opportunities. Macau was led by the double-double performance of Lo Hip Meng, who ended up with 10 points and 12 rebounds.

PHI 98- Chan 18, Reyes 12, David 12, Dillinger 11, Rosser 11, Norwood 9, Tenorio 7, Thoss 6, Fonacier 6, De Ocampo 4, Villanueva 2
MAC 46- Lao FI 14, Cheong 12, Lo 10, Cai 6, Lai 4, Wong 0, Iong KK 0, Iong NS 0
QS: 33-14, 55-33, 83-41, 98-46

JAPAN over INDIA, 90-72
Kosuke Kanamaru and JR Sakuragi continued to form a potent inside-outside pair as Japan bucked a tough challenge from the Indians to post their third win in as many games. Kanamaru, who plays for the Panasonic Trians in the Japanese pro league, rained 7 treys on India to finish with a game-high 26 points. Sakuragi and former Aisin Seahorses teammate Kosuke Takeuchi paired up for 28 points and 24 rebounds to win the battle in the paint, while NT veteran Ryota Sakurai manned the PG spot well with a dozen points, 3 dimes, and 3 steals. Vishesh Bhriguvanshi continued to be Indias best scoring option with 21 points, while the duo of Amritpal Singh and Rikin Pethani combined for 29 points and 29 rebounds for Coach Keshav Chansoria. India ends its campaign with a dismal 0-4 slate.

JPN 90- Kanamaru 26, Sakuragi 18, Sakurai 12, Takeuchi 10, Furukawa 7, Watanabe 6, Ichioka 5, Tanaka 3, Kurihara 3, Hiejima 0, Ota 0, Nagayoshi 0
IND 72- Bhriguvanshi 21, Pethani 16, Singh J 13, Singh Al 13, Grewal 9, Singh At 0, Philip 0, Singh Y 0
QS: 28-22, 44-41, 67-54, 90-72

IRAN over TAIWAN, 71-63
For the second straight game, Iran fell behind by double-digits at halftime, and for the second straight game they rallied to win in the end. The Taiwanese posted a 10-point lead at the break, but they were outscored 27-12 in the third period as the Iranians came back strong to remain undefeated in Group B action. Once again, the duo of Samad Nikkhah Bahrami and Hamed Afagh did the most damage for Coach Memi Becirovic. Bahrami and Afagh scored 24 and 13 points respectively, while Oshin Sahakian and Rouzbeh Arghavan effectively manned the interior with a combined output of 13 points and 18 rebounds. Tien Lei led Taiwan with 17 points, while Tseng Wen-Ting tallied 11 markers and 10 boards. This was Taiwans second loss. The result of their match with Qatar on Day 4 decides who will be 3rd and 4th in their group going into the second round.

IRI 71- Bahrami 24, Afagh 13, Sahakian 7, Kardoust 6, Arghavan 6, Davoudi 5, Aslani 3, Jamshidi 3, Sedighi 2, Foroutan 2, Mashayekhi 0
TPE 63- Tien 17, Tseng 11, Lee 8, Mao 8, Wu 6, Chen SC 6, Lin 4, Lu 3, Su 0, Chang 0, Chen HA 0, Creighton 0
QS: 17-20, 29-39, 56-51, 71-63

CHINA over UZBEKISTAN, 107-47
Guo Ailun sat out this match as Coach Fan Bin let most of his younger guys take over. They didnt disappoint as the Chinese ran roughshod over the hapless Uzbeks. Fresh from losing to Lebanon, and facing the prospect of finishing third in Group A, China unleashed their fury on the unfortunate CABA representatives. Zhao Tailong and Duan Jiangpeng combined for 8 triples to finish with 20 and 17 points respectively, while Wang Zhelin unloaded 16 markers to go along with 9 rebounds. Wang Zirui and Yu Changdong rounded out the double-figure scorers for China with 14 and 12 points respectively. Only two guys finished in twin digits for Coach Oleg Levin Aleksandr Kozlov with 11 points and Samender Juginisov with 10. China will next face the loser of the Iran-Japan match-up, while Uzbekistan will next play the winner of that same contest.

CHN 107- Zhao 20, Duan 17, Wang ZL 16, Wang ZR 14, Yu 12, Zhang 9, Wu 7, Sui 4, Cao F 4, Cao Y 4, Sun 0
UZB 47- Kozlov 11, Juginisov 10, Denisov 7, Rahimov 4, Safarov 4, Tngrikulov 3, Nuraliev 3, Shatrov 3, Yahin 2, Nabiev 0, Timofeev 0, Kadirov 0
QS: 21-11, 52-19, 82-38, 107-47

Source: HoopNut.blogspot.com


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  PORTUGAL   


Maia Basket land Nuno Marcal - by Eurobasket News

Maia Basket added experience to the roster. They signed contract with Nuno Marcal (205-F-75). The 36-year-old forward played for FC Porto Ferpinta since 2006. Last season he notched 4.5 points and 1.6 rebounds per game in LPB. Nuno Marcal also had spells for Ciudad de Huelva, Murcia, Oliveirense and Fuenlabrada during his career. He made it into All-Portuguese League 1st Team in 1999. He was the member of Portuguese League All-Domestic Players Team in 2007, 2008 and 2009. Nuno Marcal was trumped Portuguese League All-Star Game MVP in 1998. In 2008 the forward was named Cup Final MVP. Next season Nuno Marcal was recognized as All-Portuguese League Domestic Co-Player of the Year.


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


Blow for Kuban as FIBA decided Ohayon is a Maccabi player - by Anton Zirkov

A big but an expected blow,those are the words that are coming from Lokomotiv Kuban this afternoon after FIBA has decided that Yogev Ohayon (190-PG-87) has a valid contract with Maccabi Tel-Aviv and he is their player.
Kuban has agreed terms with Ohayon on a 750.000USD per season and also paid Maccabi a buyout.but Maccabi claimed all the time that Ohayon didn't have any buyout clause and he has a "Closed" contract with the team and only a buyout clause next summer.
And today a Manager from the team told Eurobasket :"We received FIBA's papers,the truth is that we expected this decision.we will have to seat and see what to do.But its unlikley that Ohayon will be our player now.we will have to see if we were mislead by his agent"




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


Boras Basket parts ways with Momcilo Latinovic - by Eurobasket News

Momcilo Latinovic (198-G, college: N.Mexico Highlands) is no longer a member of Boras Basket. The Swedish squad released him today. Latinovic signed with Boras three weeks ago, but it seems the team had higher expectations. Momcilo Latinovic graduated at New Mexico Highlands University (NCAA2) few months ago. He had 14.5 ppg and 3.5 rpg for his school in 24 games as a senior. Latinovic was named to All-RMAC 2nd Team -12. As a junior, the player had 11.1 ppg and 5 rpg for 26 appearances. Momcilo Latinovic transferred to New Mexico Highlands two years ago from the Northern State University (NCAA2). There he had 3.2 ppg and 1.4 rpg for 26 games. He started American adventure with Blendale Community College (JUCO) in 2008/09. In the past, Latinovic played for Beovuk 72 juniors. Boras Basket didnt announce will they look to replace Momcilo Latinovic with some other player or they will continue with the current roster.


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


Jakub Petras is starting his pro career in Nitra - by Michal Duchovic

The team of BK Edymax SPU Nitra has signed Jakub Petras (208-PF-94) from IMC Povazska Bystrica. Petras was three years member of IMC Povazska Bystrica, where he was playing in young categories. Last season he was also playing in A-team of BK Vahostav-SK Zilina. In BK Vahostav-SK Zilina he started in 14 games with an average of 3.4 ppg and 1.4 rpg. But the most time of the season he was playing in junior team of Povazska Bystrice, where he averaged 15.8 ppg. Petras was also a member of Slovakian U16 and U18 National Team. For him will be BK Edymax SPU Nitra his first senior basketball experience.


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  SPAIN   


Alicante signs short term deal with Guillermo Rejon - by Eurobasket News

Guillermo Rejon (206-F/C-77) is back to Alicante. The veteran Spanish big guy signed a 1-month deal with his former club. He was a member of Alicante from 1999 to 2001 and later from 2008 to 2011. They won LEB Gold Playoff together three years ago. At that time Alicante also won the promotion for ACB. Rejon helped the club with 5.7 ppg and 3.5 rpg for 35 games that year. Later he had very limited playing time in ACB. Last season Guillermo Rejon spent with UCAM Murcia, but he was getting less than 6 minutes per game (26 games). He had 1.1 rpg. In the past Guillermo Rejon played for Palma Aqua Magica, Valladolid, Rueil, Lobos Cantabria, and Ferrol. From 1994 to 1998, Rejon played for Estudiantes II.


Carlos Jimenez returns to Unicaja, at least for one month - by Eurobasket News

Carlos Jimenez (205-F-76) postponed his retirement and returned to his former team Unicaja Malaga. The veteran forward penned a one-month deal, with option for another one. He should be temporarily replacement for injured Sergi Vidal (198-F/G-81). Carlos Jimenez played for Unicaja from 2006 to 2011. Last season he spent with Estudiantes, where he also played more than 10 years in the past. He averaged 5.1 ppg and 5.7 rpg for 29 games in Liga Endesa last season. With Unicaja in 2010/11 the player had 6 ppg and 4.7 rpg for 27 games in Spain. He also added 6.2 ppg and 4.3 rpg for 11 Euroleague appearances. This summer Carlos Jimenez played for the Spanish 3x3 Team at the World Championship in Greece. He was a member of the Spanish NT from 1998 to 2008.


Palencia brings in Benett Davis on tryout - by Natxo Mendaza

Palencia Baloncesto, recently crowned as Castilla Leon Cup winner, officially announced the agreement with Cotonou player Bennet Davis (206-F-84, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: Northeastern). Davis comes on a tryout, and will try to convince Palencia's coaching staff during the next weeks in order to grab the last spot on team's roster. Last season, Davis started season in Finland, where he averaged 12.1ppg, 7.5rpg, 1.2apg playing for KTP until November, when he left. Later in January he joined Niigata Albirex in the BJ League (Japan), averaging 7.3ppg, 6.1rpg, 1.1apg in 31 games.


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  SWEDEN   


08 Stockholm signs rookie Isiah Brown and young Johan Kulin - by Eurobasket News

08 Stockholm signed Isiah Brown (203-F-89) and Johan Kulin (196-F-93) for the upcoming season.
This is the first pro deal for American forward Isiah Brown, who graduated few months ago at East Tennessee State University. He had 12.4 ppg and 5.9 rpg for his school in 31 games as a senior. They reached A-Sun Tournament Semifinals. Brown received one extra year of eligibility, so he spent five seasons with East Tennessee State University. The player was constantly improving every year. He started with 4.7 ppg and 4.6 in 2008/09 and after that registered 7.8 ppg and 5.6 rpg. As a junior the player had 10.3 ppg and 7.2 rpg for 36 games.
Johan Kulin most recently played for BG Fryshuset Stockholm. In the past, he played for Swedish U16 NT.
08 Stockholm competes in Swedish top division for men - Basketligan.


Boras Basket parts ways with Momcilo Latinovic - by Eurobasket News

Momcilo Latinovic (198-G, college: N.Mexico Highlands) is no longer a member of Boras Basket. The Swedish squad released him today. Latinovic signed with Boras three weeks ago, but it seems the team had higher expectations. Momcilo Latinovic graduated at New Mexico Highlands University (NCAA2) few months ago. He had 14.5 ppg and 3.5 rpg for his school in 24 games as a senior. Latinovic was named to All-RMAC 2nd Team -12. As a junior, the player had 11.1 ppg and 5 rpg for 26 appearances. Momcilo Latinovic transferred to New Mexico Highlands two years ago from the Northern State University (NCAA2). There he had 3.2 ppg and 1.4 rpg for 26 games. He started American adventure with Blendale Community College (JUCO) in 2008/09. In the past, Latinovic played for Beovuk 72 juniors. Boras Basket didnt announce will they look to replace Momcilo Latinovic with some other player or they will continue with the current roster.


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  TAIWAN   


Taiwan lost to Iran but made Asia Cup quarterfinal - by Chris Wang

Taiwan lost to Iran 71-63 yesterday in Tokyo, Japan and fell to 1-2 in the preliminary round of the 2012 Asia Cup but clinched a quarterfinal berth after India finishing the round with four losses.

Four of the five teams in the Group A and B will make the quarterfinal, which mean Macau and India, each with a 0-4 record, will be eliminated.

Tien Lei (202-F-83) scored 11 of his team-high 17 points in the first half and help Taiwan jumped to a 39-29 halftime lead, but too many turnovers in the second half and a resurgent Samad Bahrami, who tallied 11 of his game-high 24 points in the third period and sparked a 12-0 run in the period, changed the momentum of the game.

Taiwan, which committed 24 turnovers in the game, could only closed the gap to two points with five minutes remaining but still failed to topple Iran.

Iran is now tied with host Japan at 3-0 at the top of the Group B standing.

Group A
Philippines 3-1
Lebanon 2-1
China 2-1
Uzbekistan 1-2
Macau 0-4

Group B
Japan 3-0
Iran 3-0
Qatar 1-2
Taiwan 1-2
India 0-4


2012 Fiba Asia Cup: Samad Nik Khahbahrami carries Iran past Taiwan - by Eurobasket News

Iran - Taiwan 71:63

Iran had to fight hard to achieve the third straight victory at Fiba Asia Cup. They survived a tough challenge from Taiwan to improve at 3-0 record on top of Group B. Samad Nik Khahbahrami (198-F-83) was a usual contributor for Iran scoring 24 points. Taiwan fell at 1-2 record after the loss.
Taiwan enjoyed a 20:17 lead after ten minutes of action. They stretched the gap in the second frame. Taiwan accumulated a 39:29 halftime lead. But Iran turned things around after the big break. They went on a storming 27:12 rally to ensure a 5-point lead at the final intermission. Iran held Taiwan to 12 points in the fourth frame and claimed the third straight win at the tournament. Hamed Afagh (190-SG-83) delivered 13 points, while Oshin Sahakian (200-F-86) added 7 points and 10 rebounds for Iran. Tien Lei (202-F-83) answered with 17 points for Taiwan. Tseng Wen-Ting (203-F/C-84) had 11 points in the loss.

Iran: Samad Nik Khahbahrami 24, Hamed Afagh 13, Oshin Sahakian 7+10 boards
Taiwan: Tien Lei 17, Tseng Wen-Ting 11


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  TUNISIA   

Standings - D1

Division Standings
Group A
 1. C Africain 1-0 
 2. CA Bizerte 1-0 
 3. ES Sahel 1-0 
 4. AS Hammamet 0-0 
 5. CSHL 0-1 
 6. ESG 0-1 
 7. US Monastir 0-1 
Group B
 1. ES Rades 1-0 
 2. SSK 1-0 
 3. Stade Nabeulien 1-0 
 4. JS Manazeh 0-0 
 5. CS Cheminots 0-1 
 6. Ezzahra 0-1 
 7. JS Kairouan 0-1 

Regular Season: Round 1

A

Sep. 15: C Africain - ESG 89-69
Sep. 15: US Monastir - ES Sahel 63-81
Sep. 15: CSHL - CA Bizerte 51-69

B

Sep. 15: SSK - CS Cheminots 88-83
Sep. 15: ES Rades - JS Kairouan 81-50
Sep. 15: Ezzahra - Stade Nabeulien 61-75

Regular Season: Round 2

A

Sep. 22: CA Bizerte - ESG
Sep. 22: ES Sahel - C Africain
Sep. 22: CSHL - AS Hammamet

B

Sep. 22: JS Kairouan - CS Cheminots
Sep. 22: Stade Nabeulien - SSK
Sep. 22: ES Rades - JS Manazeh



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


Theo Turner joins Newcastle Eagles - by Eurobasket

Newcastle Eagles (BBL) agreed terms with 19-year old domestic center Theo Turner (210-96kg-93, college: High School). Turner played last season at Tees Valley Mohawks (EBL D1).
He was a member of British U18 National Team this year. Turner represented United Kingdom at the English 3x3 Men Team for Youth Olympic Games in Italy last year.
He graduated from High School in 2011 and it will be his first season as a professional player.

By Eurobasket Data Center


London Lions add James to their roster - by Eurobasket

London Lions (BBL) added to their roster 29-year old American forward Duane James (196-100kg-83, college: Binghamton). James played last season at Real Canoe Madrid in Spanish EBA league. In 24 EBA games he recorded 9.8ppg and 5.0rpg. He helped them to win regular season.
James is quite experienced player. He played also professionally in Denmark (Horsholm), United Kingdom (Jelson Homes DMU Leicester City Riders and Paws London Capitals).
James graduated from Binghamton University in 2007 and it will be his sixth season as a professional player.

By Eurobasket Data Center


Theo Turner joins Newcastle Eagles - by Eurobasket

Newcastle Eagles (BBL) agreed terms with 19-year old domestic center Theo Turner (210-96kg-93, college: High School). Turner played last season at Tees Valley Mohawks (EBL D1).
He was a member of British U18 National Team this year. Turner represented United Kingdom at the English 3x3 Men Team for Youth Olympic Games in Italy last year.
He graduated from High School in 2011 and it will be his first season as a professional player.

By Eurobasket Data Center


Barnett starts his pro career at UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders - by Eurobasket

UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders (BBL) agreed terms with 23-year old American guard Javarris Barnett (200-89). Barnett just graduated from Charlotte (NCAA). In 30 games last season he had 12.1ppg, 5.6rpg and 1.3apg. He hepled his team to make it to Atlantic 10 Tournament Semifinals in 2010.
As mentioned above he is just out of college, so it will be Barnetts first season as a professional player.

By Eurobasket Data Center


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  VIETNAM   


Coach Jason Rabedeaux Signs Extension with Saigon Heat - by Eurobasket Center

CHICAGO - The Saigon Heat has signed a three year extension with Head Coach Jason Rabedeaux (agency: Edge Sports ).

The Saigon Heat has provided our team and staff with the rare and remarkable opportunity to continue to build upon our success last year, said Rabedeaux. In Vietnam, we are faced with one of the most unique, challenging and rewarding opportunities in the basketball world. The opportunity to lead a "basketball revolution" for an entire country is an incredible and humbling honor. The passion, enthusiasm and energy displayed by our fans in Saigon and throughout Vietnam have been absolutely second to none. I look forward to leading the Saigon Heat as we continue to embark upon this amazing journey...now and for many years to come."

Rabedeaux took over as head coach of the Saigon Heat after the club had experienced an 0-7 start. He proceeded to guide the team from the brink of oblivion to within one game of making the playoffs. Under his leadership, the Heat won 8 of their final 14 games-- the fourth best record in the ABL during that span.
Rabedeaux has over 20 years of experience coaching clubs all over the world including assistant and head coach stints in the NCAA as well as the Chinese and Japanese professional leagues. He was named as Western Athletic Conference Coach of the Year while serving as the head coach of the University of Texas El Paso. Rabedeaux coached under Kelvin Sampson at the University of Oklahoma and served as Tom Creans top assistant at Marquette University. Most recently, Rabedeaux was the head coach for the Al-Manama in the Bahrain Premier League where he lifted both the Bahrain Cup trophy and the Bahrain Super Cup trophy in 2011.

According to the Saigon Heat, the signing of Rabedeaux to a long term contract provides the Saigon Heat franchise continuity and a cornerstone in which to develop the franchise and basketball in Vietnam.

Coach Rabedeaux's leadership and experience was integral in turning around the Saigon Heat's inaugural season, said General Manager, Connor Nguyen. The interest and support for the team was unprecedented and truly a phenomenon far exceeding anyone's expectations. Coach Rabedeaux will continue to lead the effort to build upon the Saigon Heat's initial success.

The Saigon Heat competes in the ASEAN Basketball League against teams from Philippines, Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia, and Malaysia. Saigon Heat is Vietnam's first and only international professional basketball team. The Saigon Heat's mission is to inspire Vietnam to believe it can compete successfully in sports on the international stage. The Saigon Heat will provide leadership in creating a basketball developmental infrastructure for all of Vietnam.



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Women News

Standings

Standings
Group A
1. China0-0
2. Japan0-0
3. S.Korea0-0
4. Malaysia0-0
5. Taiwan0-0
6. Thailand0-0
Group B
1. Hong Kong0-0
2. India0-0
3. Kazakhstan0-0
4. Singapore0-0
5. Sri Lanka0-0
6. Uzbekistan0-0

Preliminary Round: Round 1

A

Sep. 29: CHN - TAI
Sep. 29: KOR - JPN
Sep. 29: MAS - THA

B

Sep. 29: SRI - UZB
Sep. 29: HKG - KAZ
Sep. 29: SIN - IND



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


BK Gorizont Minsk participated at the International Tournament - by Eurobasket News

BK Gorizont Minsk participated at the International Tournament at Memorial Malgorzaty Dydek. The team played against some Polish teams.
In Day 1 Artego Bydgoszcz smashed BK Gorizont Minsk 106:64. Julie McBride (165-G-82, college: Syracuse) stepped up with 24 ponts and Mowlik netted 15. Likhtarovich Tatsiana replied with 17 poins and Khatsko posted 15.
Later Matizol Lider Pruszkow won over BK Gorizont Minsk 70:56. Rozwadowska top-scored for the winners with 14 points and Sydney Colson (172-PG-89, college: Texas A&M) delivered 11. Khomenchuk delivered 16 points in the losing effor and Anufryenka added 13.
In Day 3 Basketball Investments lost to BK Gorizont Minsk 64:71. Likhtarovich Tatsiana and Anufryienka Natalia top-scored for the winners with 18 points each, while Galina Szylowicz posted 11. Antonia Bennett (185-G/F-90, college: Florida A&M) netted 16 pons in the losing effort, while Kinga Bandyk (186-F/C-92) and Natalia Malaszewska (178-G-84, agency: Promotex) brought 11 each.


Gorizont brings Tatsiana Likhtarovich, keep Khomenchuk, Anufryienka and Khatsko - by Eurobasket News

Gorizont brings Tatsiana Likhtarovich (179-G/F-88, agency: LBM Management) back to the roster. The latter comes from VICI Aistes where she spent the last season. She brought another title from abroad as her VICI Aistes lifted up the trophy as they won the Final series over Kibirkstis-Tiche. The decisive game brought 94:65 win for the favorites that proved their Regular Season unbeaten record.
VICI-Aistes finished the Regular Season with 28-0 record, while Kibirkstis-Tiche second with 18-10 record. The latter looked however fantastic in the Play-off series and managed to beat the favorites twice.
In 2011-2012 for VICI Aistes Kaunas (Lithuania-LMKL) Tatsiana Likhtarovich played in Euroleagues 14 games and averaged 7.7ppg, 2.5rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 33.0%, 3PT: 25.9%, FT: 85.2%. In BWBL her stats read 12.4ppg, 3.3rpg, Assists-5 (3.8apg), 1.3spg, FGP: 54.5%, 3PT: 25.9%, FT: 85.7%. In Lithuanian League she averaged 12.5 points per game.
The team also announced keeping Aleksandra Khomenchuk (200-C-89), Natalia Anufryienka (174-G-85, agency: LBM Management) and Tatsiana Khatsko (187-F-89).


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


BIG HEART TO LITTLE HEART - humanitarian action of WBC Novi Zagreb - by Vladimir Ivankovic


Representatives of the "Big heart to little heart" association, a non-profit, charitable association of doctors, health professionals and parents of children with congenital heart disease and other cardiac diseases, and women's basketball club Novi Zagreb, a Croatian representative in the women's Euroleague, today reached agreement on a new charity action, which will surely help this non-profit association in the acquisition of funding for the purchase of modern laboratories for angiocardiographic and heart catheterization in children.

In fact, this season the visitors of all matches of WBC Novi Zagreb, in all categories, from youngster to Euroleague, will pay for tickets. There will be no comps this season. Most of the tickets will have symbolic price, especially in younger categories, but all sales income will be donated into the account of the Association "Big heart to little heart". Although the prices of individual tickets are not yet determined, nor season-ticket or packages, it is expected to total revenue donated to the account of the association could be around Kn 50,000.

"Every parent knows how it feels when a child is ill, especially if you are born with a heart defect, and when every day you fear over your child. Because we are all very sensitive to the needs of these young girls and boys, as well as their parents. Parents, who wage a daily battle for their children. This is one very small step in our social role, which should be part of every sports team, is to help those who are needy. We have in recent years often help children without parental home, and this season we have decided to help the association "Big heart to little heart." We believe that the parents of our young players, our fans and all the fans of women's basketball in Zagreb and Croatia, which will come to our games, will support this humanitarian effort, because these brave kids and their parents certainly need our help. "- Said the president od WBC Novi Zagreb, Vladimir Ivankovic.

"We are proud to wear the jersey with the mark this charity organisation on it. It is good to do good. "- said the captain of the New Zagreb and the Croatian national team, one of Europe's best players, Sandra Mandir.

The first official match, from which income will be donated to the association "Big heart to little heart", Novi Zagreb will play 26th Sep 2012 against Partizan Belgrade.

For more information:
http://velikosrce-malomsrcu.hr/


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


KK ROW Rybnik face Czech representatives in friendlies - by Eurobasket News

KK ROW Rybnik face Czech representatives in friendlies over the last few days, The polish team won over VS Praga but lost to Sokol Hradec Kralove.
KK ROW Rybnik overcame VS Praga 73:60. They started with 20-14 and added 14.13 in the second frame. Moreover the Polish side won the third and the last quarters as well. Aleksandra Chomac (191-C-85, agency: Data Plus Group) paced all the winners with 16 points and Natalija Trofimowa posted 11. Aldona Morawiec (183-F-92) and Magdalena Skorek (177-G-84, agency: Data Plus Group) followed them with 10 points apiece.
Sokol Hradec Kralove outscored KK ROW Rybnik 81:78 . The team from Czech Republic won the first period 32-22 and led 10 points at the halftime. KK ROW Rybnik won the third and the last stanzas but could not win the game. Natalija Trofimowa scored 16 points for the Polish side and Leah Metcalf had 14. Marcedes Marie Walker (191-C-86, agency: LBM Management, college: Pittsburgh) brought 14, while Magdalena Skorek added 10.


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


Pecs wins third place at tournament in Novi Sad - by Eurobasket News

Pecs participated at tournament in Novi Sad this past weekend. It was the second Radojica Nikitovic Lale memorial tournament. The Hungarian squad finished as No.3 thanks to 88-65 victory against the Serbian team Stara Pazova. Pecs dominated from the start having no troubles to register comfortable win. Amadea Szamosi (190-C/F-94) stepped up with 24 points for Pecs and Czukor netted 15 points. Their third scorer was Fanni Csutoras (181-G/F-94) with 12 points. In defeat, Nikolic delivered 17 points.
In the Semifinals, Pecs faced with 40-73 loss against Partizan Galenika. The reining Serbian and Adriatic league champion got 17 points from Milica Dabovic (175-PG-82) in this meeting. At the other side, Latinka Dusanic (178-G-90) had 16 points for Pecs. Furesz and Fanni Csutoras stopped to 10 and 6 pts respectively. Partizan outplayed host Vojvodina in the final game 100-70.


*****************************************************
  NCAA2   


08 Stockholm brings in Kymira Woodberry - by Eurobasket News

Kymira Woodberry (175-G/F, college: Molloy) will continue her career in Sweden. The American guard/forward penned a 1-year deal with 08 Stockholm. They will compete in Damligan. Woodberry is a product of Molloy College, where she graduated two years ago. The player had 14.7 ppg and 11.1 rpg for 22 games as a senior. She had even better numbers in her junior season. For 28 games Kymira Woodberry registered 17.6 ppg and 12.1 rpg. She spent all four years with Molloy. Woodberry is ranked 1st for Molloy's all-time leaderboard for FG made (666), rebounds (1,203) and FG% (.507). Also is 3rd in scoring (1,700). Most recently Woodberry played for the WBCBL team Boston Bombers. It was in 2011 WBCBL season and player averaged 14.3 points, plus 13 rebounds.


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  POLAND   


KK ROW Rybnik face Czech representatives in friendlies - by Eurobasket News

KK ROW Rybnik face Czech representatives in friendlies over the last few days, The polish team won over VS Praga but lost to Sokol Hradec Kralove.
KK ROW Rybnik overcame VS Praga 73:60. They started with 20-14 and added 14.13 in the second frame. Moreover the Polish side won the third and the last quarters as well. Aleksandra Chomac (191-C-85, agency: Data Plus Group) paced all the winners with 16 points and Natalija Trofimowa posted 11. Aldona Morawiec (183-F-92) and Magdalena Skorek (177-G-84, agency: Data Plus Group) followed them with 10 points apiece.
Sokol Hradec Kralove outscored KK ROW Rybnik 81:78 . The team from Czech Republic won the first period 32-22 and led 10 points at the halftime. KK ROW Rybnik won the third and the last stanzas but could not win the game. Natalija Trofimowa scored 16 points for the Polish side and Leah Metcalf had 14. Marcedes Marie Walker (191-C-86, agency: LBM Management, college: Pittsburgh) brought 14, while Magdalena Skorek added 10.


Matizol Lider Pruszkow triumphs at Memorial Malgorzaty Dydek - by Eurobasket News

Matizol Lider Pruszkow triumphs at Memorial Malgorzaty Dydek with 4 participating teams.
In Day 1 Artego Bydgoszcz smashed Horizont Minsk 106:64. Julie McBride (165-G-82, college: Syracuse) stepped up with 24 ponts and Mowlik netted 15. Tatsiana Likhtarovich (179-G/F-88, agency: LBM Management) replied with 17 poins and Khatsko posted 15.
BI Gdynia lost to Matizol Lider Pruszkow 67:85. Sydney Colson (172-PG-89, college: Texas A&M) paced all the winners with 17 points and Jujka notched 13. Bennett ended up with 19 points while Dixon had 18.
Later BI Gdynia outscored Artego Bydgoszcz 78:63. Matizol Lider Pruszkow won over Horizont Minsk 70:56. Paulina Rozwadowska (190-F-89, agency: Promotex) top-scored for the winners with 14 points and Sydney Colson delivered 11. Khomenchuk delivered 16 points in the losing effor and Anufryenka added 13.
In Day 3 Basketball Investments lost to Horizont Minsk 64:71. Tatsiana Likhtarovich and Anufryienka Natalia top-scored for the winners with 18 points each, while Galina Szylowicz posted 11. Antonia Bennett (185-G/F-90, college: Florida A&M) netted 16 pons in the losing effort, while Kinga Bandyk (186-F/C-92) and Natalia Malaszewska brought 11 each.
Matizol Lider Pruszkow won over Artego Bydgoszcz 62:58.


Artego Bydgoszcz could land Oleksandra Chek - by Eurobasket News

Artego Bydgoszcz (PLKK) is close to sign 19-year old Ukrainian center Oleksandra Chek (191-93, agency: New Trend Agency). Chek played most recently at Regina-Basket Bar in Ukrainian Higher League. In 28 Higher League games she recorded 9.5ppg and 5.8rpg last season. She helped them to win regular season and make it to the final. Great season indeed as she was voted to Eurobasket.com All-Ukrainian Higher League 2nd Team.
Chek was a member of Ukrainian U20 National Team between 2010 and 2012 and a member of Ukrainian U18 National Team between 2010 and 2011. She represented Ukraine at the European Championships U20 in Debrecen (Hungary) this year. Her stats at that event were 9 games: 10.9ppg, 6.6rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 38.5%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 76.2%.

By Eurobasket Data Center


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  PUERTO RICO   

Standings - Women

BSNF Standings
 1. Quebradillas 9-2 
 2. Carolina G. 8-2 
 3. Morovis M. 7-1 
 4. San German 5-4 
 5. Juncos V. 4-7 
 6. Aguas B.T. 1-7 
 7. Ponce L. 0-11 

Regular Season: Round 9

Sep. 16: Juncos V. - San German 70-66
Sep. 16: Ponce L. - Carolina G. 58-81
Sep. 18: Morovis M. - Aguas B.T.
Sep. 19: San German - Ponce L.


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, Carolina22.7 
 3. Werema, Juncos V.21.4 
 4. Bruszewski, Quebra.17.6 
 5. Fairweather, Ponce17.2 
 6. Seals, Aguas B.T.16.9 
 7. Jones, Carolina G.16.3 
 8. Rosado, Morovis M.16.0 
 9. Lewis, Ponce L.15.2 
 10. Smith, San German14.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Denise LEWIS
  Ponce L.
  (185-F-90)
  Avg: 12.8
 1. Lewis, Ponce L.12.8 
 2. Vargas-S., Juncos12.1 
 3. Rosario, Ponce L.11.6 
 4. Jones, Carolina G.11.4 
 5. Martin, Aguas B.T.10.1 
 6. Seals, Aguas B.T.9.6 
 7. Bruszewski, Quebra.8.7 
 8. Gonzalez, San G.8.6 
 9. Pineiro, Morovis M.8.6 
 10. Werema, Juncos V.8.2 
Assists Per Game
 Karla RUIZ
  Aguas B.T.
  (--)
  Avg: 3.6
 1. Ruiz, Aguas B.T.3.6 
 2. Escalera, Morov.3.6 
 3. Rosado, San German3.5 
 4. Johnson, Aguas B..3.5 
 5. Jones, Carolina G.3.4 
 6. Colon, Ponce L.3.3 
 7. Bruszewski, Quebra.3.3 
 8. Concepcion, Junco.3.1 
 9. Gonzalez, San G.3.0 
 10. Rodriguez, Caroli.3.0 
Steals Per Game
 Pamela ROSADO
  Morovis M.
  (165-PG-86)
  Avg: 3.4
 1. Rosado, Morovis M.3.4 
 2. Magee, Carolina G.3.0 
 3. Fairweather, Ponce2.8 
 4. Valentin, Carolina2.7 
 5. De La Paz, Juncos2.5 
 6. Martin, Aguas B.T.2.5 
 7. Matthews, Aguas B.2.3 
 8. Johnson, Aguas B..2.1 
 9. Rodriguez, Carolin.2.1 
 10. Lechlitner, Quebr.2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Esmary VARGAS-SANCHEZ
  Juncos V.
  (191-C-81)
  Avg: 3.6
 1. Vargas-S., Juncos3.6 
 2. Williams, Morovis2.1 
 3. Rosario, Ponce L.2.0 
 4. Placido, Quebradil.1.2 
 5. Werema, Juncos V.1.1 
 6. Seals, Aguas B.T.1.1 
 7. Escalera, Morov.0.9 
 8. Rosado, San German0.8 
 9. Smith, San German0.8 
 10. Flores, Ponce L.0.8 


BSNF Round 8: Undefeated Montaneras lose their first game against Piratas - by Eurobasket News

The most crucial game of the last round was the first loss of undefeated Montaneras (7-1) in Quebradillas on Saturday night. Visitors were defeated by Piratas (9-2) 71-65. It ended at the same time the seven-game winning streak of Montaneras. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 16-11. But Montaneras won second period 16-12. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Piratas looked well-organized offensively handing out 26 assists. Worth to mention a great performance of American forward Becca Bruszewski (185-88, college: Notre Dame) who helped to win the game recording 18 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists and the former international forward Mari Placido (181-87) who added 15 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists during the contest. International point guard Pamela Rosado (165-86) responded with 25 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Newly promoted Piratas maintains first position with 9-2 record. Montaneras at the other side keep the second place with one game lost. Piratas will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Montaneras will play at home against Tigres in Aguas Buenas and are hoping to prove to their fans that the loss was just an accident.
Very significant was Piratas' (#1, 9-2) victory against 4th ranked Athleticas (5-3) 77-66. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Athleticas. The winners were led by American forward Becca Bruszewski (185-88, college: Notre Dame) who scored that evening 20 points and 9 rebounds and Yahimily Cabrera supported her with 11 points and 8 rebounds. Even 20 points and 8 rebounds by American guard Tyra White (182-89, college: Texas A&M) did not help to save the game for Athleticas. Newly promoted Piratas maintains first position with 9-2 record. Athleticas at the other side keep the fourth place with three games lost. Piratas will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Athleticas will play at home against Leonas (#7) in Ponce and hope to get back on the winning track.
Bottom-ranked Leonas (0-10) is still winless. This time they lost on the road their tenth consecutive match to third ranked Gigantes (7-2) 80-71 on Thursday evening. The best player for the winners was Yolanda Jones who scored 15 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Kristina Rosario produced a double-double by scoring 19 points, 15 rebounds and 6 blocks for the guests. Defending champion maintains third position with 7-2 record having 2 victories less than leader Quebradillas. Loser Leonas still closes the standings with ten games lost. Gigantes will again meet bottom-ranked Leonas (#7) in the next round. Leonas will play against Athleticas in San German and hope to get finally their first victory.
The game in Juncos supposed to be also worth to mention about. Third ranked Gigantes (7-2) played at the court of 5th ranked Valencianes (3-7). Gigantes smashed Valencianes 75-54. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Valencianes. Cynthia Valentin orchestrated the victory by scoring 33 points (!!!) (was perfect 9-for-9 from the free throw line !!!). Gigantes' coach felt very confident using 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Defending champion maintains third position with 7-2 record having 2 victories less than leader Quebradillas. Valencianes at the other side keep the fifth place with seven games lost. Gigantes' next round opponent will be bottom-ranked Leonas (#7) in Ponce. Valencianes will play at home against Athleticas in San German and it may be a tough game between close rivals.


Quebradillas - Morovis M. 71-65

The most crucial game of the last round was the first loss of undefeated Montaneras (7-1) in Quebradillas on Saturday night. Visitors were defeated by Piratas (9-2) 71-65. It ended at the same time the seven-game winning streak of Montaneras. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 16-11. But Montaneras won second period 16-12. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Piratas looked well-organized offensively handing out 26 assists. Worth to mention a great performance of American forward Becca Bruszewski (185-88, college: Notre Dame) who helped to win the game recording 18 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists and the former international forward Mari Placido (181-87) who added 15 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists during the contest. International point guard Pamela Rosado (165-86) responded with 25 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists and Stephanie Pineiro scored 5 points and 15 rebounds. Newly promoted Piratas maintains first position with 9-2 record. Montaneras at the other side keep the second place with one game lost. Piratas will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Montaneras will play at home against Tigres in Aguas Buenas and are hoping to prove to their fans that the loss was just an accident.
Top scorers:
Morovis M.: P.Rosado 25+6reb+4ast, C.Escalera 10+6reb+4ast, A.Williams 9+10reb+1ast, A.Sepulveda 7+1reb+2ast, N.Figueroa 5+2reb+2ast, S.Pineiro 5+15reb+1ast
Quebradillas: B.Bruszewski 18+9reb+5ast, M.Placido 15+9reb+4ast, C.Centeno 13+6reb+2ast, A.Barrientos 9+2reb+2ast, M.Lechlitner 7+1reb+3ast, K.Colon 6+2reb+2ast
gschID: 187197


Carolina G. - Ponce L. 80-71

Bottom-ranked Leonas (0-10) is still winless. This time they lost on the road their tenth consecutive match to third ranked Gigantes (7-2) 80-71 on Thursday evening. The hosts started the game with a very strong first quarter 24-13. But Leonas won third quarter 18-13. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Gigantes dominated down low during the game scoring 50 of its points in the paint compared to Leonas' 28. Gigantes forced 24 Leonas turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. The best player for the winners was international forward Yolanda Jones (184-84, college: La-Lafayette) who scored 15 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. International Angiely Morales (180-87) chipped in 20 points. American forward Kristina Rosario (188-88, college: Morgan St.) produced a double-double by scoring 19 points, 15 rebounds and 6 blocks and her fellow American import forward Jessica Fairweather (178, college: Dominican, NY) added 22 points and 6 rebounds respectively for the guests. Defending champion maintains third position with 7-2 record having 2 victories less than leader Quebradillas. Loser Leonas still closes the standings with ten games lost. Gigantes will again meet bottom-ranked Leonas (#7) in the next round. Leonas will play against Athleticas in San German and hope to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Ponce L.: J.Fairweather 22+6reb+1ast, K.Rosario 19+15reb+3ast, D.Lewis 10+6reb+5ast, J.Flores 8+2reb+1ast, M.Colon 8+2reb+3ast, J.Ithier 2+2reb+2ast
Carolina G.: A.Morales 20+2reb+1ast, C.Valentin 16+2reb+2ast, Y.Jones 15+5reb+4ast, K.Szunko 8+6reb+4ast, R.Rodriguez 6+3reb, C.Cortijo 5+6reb+2ast
gschID: 187194


Quebradillas - San German 77-66

Very significant was Piratas' (#1, 9-2) victory against 4th ranked Athleticas (5-3) 77-66. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Athleticas. The game was mostly controlled by Piratas. Athleticas was better in fourth quarter 19-13. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Piratas players were unselfish on offense dishing 22 assists. The winners were led by American forward Becca Bruszewski (185-88, college: Notre Dame) who scored that evening 20 points and 9 rebounds and the former international guard Yahimily Cabrera (-82) supported her with 11 points and 8 rebounds. Five Piratas players scored in double figures. Even 20 points and 8 rebounds by American guard Tyra White (182-89, college: Texas A&M) did not help to save the game for Athleticas. The former international guard Michelle Gonzalez (167-89, college: FIU) added 16 points and 6 rebounds for the guests. Newly promoted Piratas maintains first position with 9-2 record. Athleticas at the other side keep the fourth place with three games lost. Piratas will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Athleticas will play at home against Leonas (#7) in Ponce and hope to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
San German: T.White 20+8reb+1ast, M.Gonzalez 16+6reb+1ast, Z.Sanchez 9+2reb+2ast, D.Smith 8+2reb+2ast, Z.Gonzalez 8+8reb+2ast, S.Rosado 5+2reb+4ast
Quebradillas: B.Bruszewski 20+9reb+2ast, C.Centeno 12+5reb+3ast, M.Lechlitner 12+2reb+4ast, Y.Cabrera 11+8reb+2ast, M.Placido 11+4reb+3ast, K.Colon 7+3reb+2ast
gschID: 187195


Juncos V. - Carolina G. 54-75

The game in Juncos supposed to be also worth to mention about. Third ranked Gigantes (7-2) played at the court of 5th ranked Valencianes (3-7). Gigantes smashed Valencianes 75-54. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Valencianes. The game without a history. Gigantes led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Gigantes forced 22 Valencianes turnovers and outrebounded them 50-31 including 35 on the defensive glass. The former international Cynthia Valentin (174-84, college: Indiana, agency: LBM Management) orchestrated the victory by scoring 33 points (!!!) (was perfect 9-for-9 from the free throw line !!!). Finnish forward Kaihla Szunko (187-88, college: Cent.Michigan) contributed with 8 points, 12 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. Gigantes' coach felt very confident using 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American guard Renee Taylor (158-85, college: Miami, FL, agency: Merit Sports) replied with 20 points and 4 assists and the former international center Esmary Vargas-Sanchez (191-81, college: Emporia St.) added 6 points, 12 rebounds and 7 blocks in the effort for Valencianes. Defending champion maintains third position with 7-2 record having 2 victories less than leader Quebradillas. Valencianes at the other side keep the fifth place with seven games lost. Gigantes' next round opponent will be bottom-ranked Leonas (#7) in Ponce. Valencianes will play at home against Athleticas in San German and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Juncos V.: R.Taylor 20+3reb+4ast, G.Werema 6+4reb+1ast, E.Vargas-Sanchez 6+12reb, S.Colon 6+2reb+1ast, T.Lanza 5+1reb+5ast, P.Ramirez 4+1ast
Carolina G.: C.Valentin 33+3reb+2ast, C.Cortijo 17+4reb+2ast, K.Szunko 8+12reb+4ast, R.Rodriguez 6+7reb+3ast, E.Gonzalez 5, J.Holmes 2+1reb
gschID: 187196



Valentin number one in Puerto Rico for week 8 - by Eurobasket News

Naturalized American shooting guard Cynthia Valentin (174-SG-84, agency: LBM Management) put on an extraordinary performance in the last week for Carolina G., receiving a Latinbasket.com Player of the Week award for week 8.
The 28-year old player was the main contributor (33 points, three rebounds and two assists) to her team's victory, helping them to crush Juncos V. (#5, 3-7) with 21-point margin 75-54. Carolina G. maintains the 3rd position in American BSNF. They would have been even better if they did not have these two lost games earlier in Regular Season. Carolina G. will need more victories to improve their 7-2 record. In the team's last game Valentin had a remarkable 64.3% from 2-point range. She has many years of experience at Carolina G., through which he has constantly improved. Former Indiana University star has very solid stats this year. Valentin is in league's top in points (2nd best: 23.6ppg) and averages impressive 2.8spg and 60.5% FGP.

The second best player in last week's games was 24-year old American Kristina Rosario (188-F-88) of Ponce L.. Rosario had a very good evening with a double-double of 19 points and 15 rebounds. Bad luck as Ponce L. lost that game 71-80 to the higher-ranked Carolina G. (#3, 7-2). Ponce L. are still at the very bottom. 10 lost games are too many considering they did not win any game. Rosario is a newcomer at Ponce L., but is already one of team's top players.

Third on the list of top players last week was American forward Becca Bruszewski (185-F-88) of league's top team Quebradillas. Bruszewski scored 20 points and grabbed nine rebounds. She was a key player of Quebradillas, leading her team to a 77-66 win against #4 ranked San German in a game of the week. Quebradillas confirms their top position in the standings Bruszewski has a great season in Puerto Rico. After 10 games, she made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 17.6ppg (4th best) and rebounds with 8.7rpg (6th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Esmary Vargas-Sanchez (191-C-81) of Juncos V. - 6 points and 12 rebounds
5. Tyra White (182-G-89) of San German - 20 points and 8 rebounds
6. Jessica Fairweather (178-F) of Ponce L. - 22 points and 6 rebounds
7. Pamela Rosado (165-PG-86) of Morovis M. - 25 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists
8. Kaihla Szunko (187-F-88) of Carolina G. - 8 points, 12 rebounds and 4 assists
9. Angiely Morales (180-SF-87) of Carolina G. - 20 points and 2 rebounds
10. Carla Cortijo (172-G-87) of Carolina G. - 17 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists

The Player of the week is choosen based on efficiency calculation, but also including game result, importance of the game, if played recorded double-double/triple-double, etc.
The efficiency formula is a combination of various formulas used by different basketball organizations/leagues. We got involved many basketball scouts and journalists to assure it's accuracy.
The formula: 1.5*PTS + 3*(REB+AST+ST+BL-TO) - 2*BSAG - 4*PF + 3*PFRV + 4*(2FGPM+3FGPM) + 1.5*FTM - 3*(2FGPA-2FGPM) - 3*(3FGPA-3FGPM) - (FTA-FTM)


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  ROMANIA   


Olimpia Brasov gets bigger with Biljana Stjepanovic - by Eurobasket News

Olimpia Brasov reinforced its roster under the basket. The Romanian squad penned a 1-year deal with Biljana Stjepanovic (189-C-87). The Serbian center arrives to her new club from Radovoj Korac Belgrade. She spent last two seasons there. In the latest one Stjepanovic averaged 13.7 points and 7.5 rebounds for 17 Adriatic league games. She also added 13.5 ppg, 10 rpg and 4 apg for 2 games in Serbia. She was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-MZRKL Honorable Mention -12. In 2010/11 season Biljana Stjepanovic registered 7.8 ppg and 7.2 rpg for 22 games in the regional championship. Before Radivoj Korac, the center played for Partizan five years. In 2009, she was named Eurobasket.com All-Serbian League Center of the Year. A year after that Stjepanovic won the championship title with Partizan. In the past she played for Usce. Stjepanovic also played for Serbian youth and University National Team.


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  SERBIA   


Partizan wins Radojica Nikitovic Lale memorial tournament - by Eurobasket News

Vojvodina NIS - Partizan Galenika 70-100

Partizan is the winner of second Radojica Nikitovic Lale memorial tournament, which was held this past weekend in Novi Sad. The reigning Serbian and Adriatic league champion cruised past Vojvodina NIS 100-70. Partizan took control on its rival from the beginning and never looked back. They made 23-19 in the first quarter and continued with 23-10 in Q2. Partizan was up by 28 with ten minutes remaining in the game and all after that was just the formality. Milica Dabovic (175-PG-82) led Partizan with 18 points, while Milica Deura (178-G-90) and Brooke Queenan (188-F-84, agency: LBM Management, college: Boston Coll.) netted 14 points each. Jelena Antic (187-SF-91, college: Liberty) and Tamara Radocaj (170-PG-87) netted 12 and 11 pts respectively. For the hosts, Natasa Bucevac (179-G-85) was better than the others with 23 points ad 9 rebounds. Sandra Boskovic (171-F-91) had double-double of 13 points and 10 boards, while Stupar stopped to 10 pts. In the Semifinals, Parizan blasted Hungarian Pecs 73-40. Vojvodina downed Stara Pazova 77-50. Pecs won third place in Novi Sad thanks to 88-65 win over Stara Pazova.

Vojvodina NIS: Natasa Bucevac 23+9 boards, Sandra Boskovic 13+10 boards, Stupar 10
Partizan Galenika: Milica Dabovic 18, Milica Deura 14, Brooke Queenan 14, Jelena Antic 12, Tamara Radocaj 11


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  SWEDEN   

Basketettan standings - by Eurobasket

BasketEttan Standings
North
 1. Akropol 0-0 
 2. Alvik Basket 0-0 
 3. BG Lulea 0-0 
 4. Blackeberg 0-0 
 5. Fryshuset 0-0 
 6. Jamtland 0-0 
 7. Jarva 0-0 
 8. KFUM Central 0-0 
 9. Lidingo 0-0 
 10. Lulea Stars 0-0 
 11. Sundsvall 0-0 
 12. Uppsala 0-0 
South
 1. Arvika 0-0 
 2. Eskinstuna 0-0 
 3. Helsingborg 0-0 
 4. Hogsbo 0-0 
 5. Kringlan 0-0 
 6. Lerums 0-0 
 7. Lobas 0-0 
 8. Malbas 0-0 
 9. Mark 0-0 
 10. Sanda 0-0 
 11. Vasteras 0-0 
 12. West BK 0-0 


08 Stockholm brings in Kymira Woodberry - by Eurobasket News

Kymira Woodberry (175-G/F, college: Molloy) will continue her career in Sweden. The American guard/forward penned a 1-year deal with 08 Stockholm. They will compete in Damligan. Woodberry is a product of Molloy College, where she graduated two years ago. The player had 14.7 ppg and 11.1 rpg for 22 games as a senior. She had even better numbers in her junior season. For 28 games Kymira Woodberry registered 17.6 ppg and 12.1 rpg. She spent all four years with Molloy. Woodberry is ranked 1st for Molloy's all-time leaderboard for FG made (666), rebounds (1,203) and FG% (.507). Also is 3rd in scoring (1,700). Most recently Woodberry played for the WBCBL team Boston Bombers. It was in 2011 WBCBL season and player averaged 14.3 points, plus 13 rebounds.


Udominate Basket inks Crystal Murdaugh - by Eurobasket News

Udominate Basket announced signing of Crystal Murdaugh (182-G/F, college: N.Carolina A&T) for the upcoming season. This is the first pro deal for the American forward in Europe. Murdaugh most recently played for the WBCBL team Columbus Hidden Gems. She spent 2011/12 season with WUBA team Queen City Lady Gamblers. They were WUBA Northern Conference runners-up, while Murdaugh was named to WUBA All-Star Selection. She played for the Hidden Gems a year ago as well. Crystal Murdaugh is a product of North Carolina A&T State University, where she graduated in 2011. The player had 6.4 ppg and 3.1 rpg for 7 games as a senior. Murdaugh transferred to North Carolina A&T State University in 2009 from Bowling Green. In their first season together she averaged 5 ppg and 3.7 rpg for 33 games. With Bowling Green Crystal Murdaugh reached MAC Tournament Semifinals in 2008. She registered 5.6 ppg and 4.4 rpg in 34 games.


Kvarnby BBK lands American Ashleigh Brown - by Eurobasket News

Ashleigh Brown (183-F/G-87, college: Miami, OH) is a new member of Kvarnby BBK. The 25-year old American penned a deal for the upcoming season. She is not a new face in Damligan. Brown played for Visby Ladies over the past two seasons. In the latest one the player had 12.5 ppg and 10.5 rpg for 22 games. She was third rebounder of the competition. Ashleigh Brown was named to Eurobasket.com Swedish Damligan All-Imports Team -12. In her first year as a pro the player had 12.6 ppg and 9.2 rpg for 29 games. Brown is a product of Miami University, Ohio, where she graduated in 2010. The player had 7.6 ppg and 6.1 rpg for 31 games as a senior. She spent all four years with Miami, OH.


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


SBK Samorin add Porche Grant for 2012/13 - by David Walls


Porche Grant (6'2''-C-88, college: S.Florida) made it back to Europe signing a deal with Samorin. The 6 feet 2 inch forward spent last season in Greece where she averaged a double/ double. She left due to financial problems with the team.

Just months before Grant was the 6th overall pick in the 2011 WUBA draft. She was selected by the Georgia Disciples and left before helping them to their first championship.

Grant is a product of the University of South Florida. As a senior she ranked 8th in the NCAA in rebounding with 8.9rpg.


L.A.C./MELOM NATURANCE add WUBA All-Star - by David Walls


L.A.C./MELOM Naturance bolstered their frontcourt by added Christina Dewitt (6'3''-F-88, agency: Gamble Sports Management, college: N.Carolina) to the squad. The 6 feet 3 inch forward will start her pro career in Portugal.

In 2011 Dewitt was drafted 3rd overall by the Southern Generals (WUBA). She averaged a 21.0ppg and 10 rebounds to help lead the Lady Generals to the best record in the league. She was later named a WUBA All-Star and honored by Usbasket.com as the WUBA Forward of the Year.

We are very proud of Christiana, said WUBA Commissioner Jared Johnson . She was really improved as a player and a young lady. We expect big things.

Dewitt attended the University of North Carolina. In four years she notched 4.4 points, 4.8 boards and 1.1 assist per game.



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  UKRAINE   


Artego Bydgoszcz could land Oleksandra Chek - by Eurobasket News

Artego Bydgoszcz (PLKK) is close to sign 19-year old Ukrainian center Oleksandra Chek (191-93, agency: New Trend Agency). Chek played most recently at Regina-Basket Bar in Ukrainian Higher League. In 28 Higher League games she recorded 9.5ppg and 5.8rpg last season. She helped them to win regular season and make it to the final. Great season indeed as she was voted to Eurobasket.com All-Ukrainian Higher League 2nd Team.
Chek was a member of Ukrainian U20 National Team between 2010 and 2012 and a member of Ukrainian U18 National Team between 2010 and 2011. She represented Ukraine at the European Championships U20 in Debrecen (Hungary) this year. Her stats at that event were 9 games: 10.9ppg, 6.6rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 38.5%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 76.2%.

By Eurobasket Data Center


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  WNBA   

Standings

WNBA Standings
Eastern
 1. Connecticut S. 23-9 
 2. Indiana F. 20-11 
 3. Atlanta D. 18-14 
 4. New York L. 14-17 
 5. Chicago S. 13-18 
 6. Washington M. 6-27 
Western
 1. Minnesota L. 26-5 
 2. L.Angeles S. 21-11 
 3. S.Antonio SS 19-12 
 4. Seattle S. 14-18 
 5. Tulsa S. 8-23 
 6. Phoenix M. 7-24 

Regular Season: Round 38

Sep. 17: Minnesota L. - Indiana F. 86-79
Sep. 18: S.Antonio SS - New York L.
Sep. 18: Seattle S. - Chicago S.
Sep. 18: L.Angeles S. - Phoenix M.
Sep. 19: Connecticut S. - Indiana F.
Sep. 20: Tulsa S. - New York L.
Sep. 20: Chicago S. - Atlanta D.
Sep. 20: L.Angeles S. - Minnesota L.


Maya Moore leads Lynx past Fever, 86-79 - by Eurobasket News

Maya Moore (6'0''-SG-89, college: Connecticut) made five her six 3-pointers in the third quarter to tie the WNBA record and had a career-high 29 points in the Minnesota Lynx's 86-79 victory over the Indiana Fever on Monday night.

The coaching staff just made me aware of what actually happened. In the moment, youre just playing, Moore said. I was just trying to be aggressive and its one of those nights where the shot is feeling good, so you keep shooting.

Moore matched Phoenix star Diana Taurasi's (6'0''-SG-82, college: Connecticut) WNBA record for 3-pointers in a quarter set in 2010.

The defending champion Lynx completed their home schedule with a franchise-record 16-1 mark and improved to 26-5 overall. They will finish the regular season with three road games.

Lindsay Whalen (5'9''-PG-82, college: Minnesota) added 13 points, eight rebounds and six assists for Minnesota, which has already clinched home-court advantage throughout the playoffs.

With the loss, the Fever (20-11) dropped out of contention for the top seed in the Eastern Conference. Tamika Catchings (6'1''-SF-79, college: Tennessee) led Indiana with 19 points and 10 rebounds, Katie Douglas added 17 points, Briann January had 14, and Jessica Davenport 13.

It was too bad we couldnt do some things down the stretch, Fever coach Lin Dunn said. We need to stay healthy. We dont need to lose two starters and play the fourth quarter with two starters going down, especially our starting point guard.

The Lynx trailed by as many as 14 points in the first half and were down 62-52 with 4:07 remaining in the third quarter. But Moore hit three of her five 3 pointers in the quarter over the next 3 minutes and Minnesota tied it entering the fourth.

The Lynx forced five fourth-quarter turnovers to take control.

Seimone Augustus returned from a three-game absence due to a sprained right foot and scored eight points on 3-for-11 shooting. Devereaux Peters also finished in double figures for Minnesota with 10.

Indianas Shavonte Zellous took a blow to the head with less than 30 seconds remaining in the first half and didnt return due to concussion-like symptoms. January sustained an apparent injury with 4:47 to play and was helped to the locker room. She did not return.

Minnesotas victory assured the Connecticut Sun of the Eastern Conferences No. 1 seed.

The Fever have clinched the No. 2 seed and home-court advantage in the first round of the playoffs against the third-seeded and defending Eastern Conference champion Atlanta Dream.

Courtesy of www.boston.com