Naglis Palangos bolstered their backcourt. They agreed on terms of contract with Chris Stephenson (190-G, college: NC-Asheville). The guard will start his pro career in Lithuania. He graduated from the University of North Carolina at Asheville. Chris Stephenson posted 12.8 points, 6.3 rebounds, 2.7 assists and 1.2 steals per game in his senior season. He became Big South Conference Tournament winner in 2012. Chris Stephenson made it into Big South Conference All-Tournament Team. The guard became the third player in the Bulldogs history to reach 1000 scored points mark. Chris Stephenson also was the second in rebounds on his team. The guard was also the best in blocked shots.




Hoverla beat Juventus in friendly - by Eurobasket News

Juventus - Hoverla 75:92

Hoverla claimed another pre-season victory. They rallied past Juventus in Utena. Patrick Sparks (184-G-83, college: Kentucky) scored 18 points to lead the winners.
Hoverla jumped ahead in the opening quarter. They secured a 24:17 lead after ten minutes. Juventus almost denied the deficit in the second term. They got within one point at the interval 44:45. Hoverla boosted the lead in the third term. The Ukrainian team ensured a 4-point buffer before the fourth frame. Hoverla used a 9:0 run in the final quarter to clear off and rolled to the victory at the end. Darrick Leonard (188-G-84, college: Aurora) topscored with 16 points for Juventus. Nerijus Varnelis (201-F-78) added 13 points, while Arvydas Cepulis (196-G-79) had 10 points in the loss.


Conad Biancoblu brings in Justas Sinica for tryout - by Eurobasket News

Justas Sinica (203-F-85) will spend next few days on tryout with Conad Biancoblu. The Lithuanian forward arrives from Cimberio Varese, where he was practicing for a while. Sinica finished last season with Belarusian team BK Minsk-2006. He joined them in January averaging 10.6 points and 3.6 rebounds for 17 games in Belarusian league. The player also added 6.4 ppg and 2 rpg for 5 games in VTB United League. Minsk won the championship title in Belarus and National Cup as well. Justas Sinica started the season with Rudupis Prienu. His stats read 5.2 ppg and 4 rpg for 5 EuroCup games. The player had slightly better numbers in LKL. In the past, Sinica played for Lietuvos Rytas and Sakalai.


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

'CIBACOPA Center of the Year' Jerome Habel returns to Barreteros de Zacatecas - by Eurobasket News

Jerome Habel (208-F-85, college: San Diego St.) is back to Barreteros de Zacatecas. He signed a deal for rest of the LNBP season. The American forward played for Barreteros also in 2011/12 edition of the LNBP. He had 14.7 ppg and 6.6 rpg for 13 games. Most recently he played for the CIBACOPA team Ostioneros de Guaymas. There, Habel averaged 17.8 points, 7.4 rebounds and 1.4 blocks in 54 games. He was named Latinbasket.com All-Mexican CIBACOPA Center of the Year -12 and Latinbasket.com All-Mexican CIBACOPA Defensive Player of the Year -12. Guaymas reached CIBACOPA Semifinals. Jerome Habel played for Guaymas also in 2009, 2010, and 2011. In LNBP, he was a member of Fuerza Regia Monterrey and Cosmos de Tijuana. Habel is a product of the San Diego State University.


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

MONTENEGRO

Caja Laboral's Milko Bjelica two weeks out - by Eurobasket News

Milko Bjelica (205-F/C-84, agency: Beo Basket) will miss next two weeks due to injury. The player has bilateral patellar tendinopathy (both knees). He will undergo rich plasma therapy and will be back on the court in two weeks. Bjelica joined Caja Laboral last summer from Lietuvos Rytas. He had 7.5 ppg and 3.2 rpg for 38 games in Liga Endesa. Caja Laboral reached Playoff Semifinals and they also played in Copa del Rey Semis. In Euroleague Bjelica added 10.6 ppg and 3.9 rpg for 8 appearances. As mentioned above, before Caja Laboral Milko Bjelica played for Lirtuvos Rytas and Koeln 99ers. He also has experience from New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig and Crvena Zvezda. Milko Bjelica is active member of the Montenegrin National Team since 2008. This summer they booked a ticket for the 2013 EuroBasket in Slovenia with perfect 10-0 record.


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

NBA

Derrick Rose: ''Ive got to learn how to walk again'' - by Diamadis Farmakis

Derrick Rose (6'3''-G-88, college: Memphis) is moving forward and keeping the faith. Bulls point guard provides an update on his rehabilitation, shares his thoughts on the return of Kirk Hinrich, and talks about patience as a virtue

**''My leg is getting a lot stronger and Im able to run a little bit more," said Rose. Then he saw his D Rose 3 signature basketball shoe, new logo and apparel collection launched by adidas on Thursday

**"My body is feeling good, I'm in a peaceful place right now''

**''When I tell you that youve got to learn how to walk again, I really do mean that, said Rose while riding a stationary bike in the Berto Center weight room. You probably dont see people until theyve started walking again and you just assume that they started walking right after the surgery. But after my surgery, I wasnt able to bend my leg at all. For me, just to bend my leg was a blessing. Now, to see me on the bike right now as Im doing this interview, it really amazes me''.

The physical challenges that Rose has faced are obvious. But hes also had to overcome some serious emotional hurdles along the way, realizing he wouldnt be on the court as his team continued to compete in the NBA Playoffs, and accepting that his road to recovery would be lengthy, eight to twelve months according to Bulls team physician Dr. Brian Cole.

Rose, however, is not deterred. And he believes hes past the worst of it.

**''I got through the hard part I think,'' said Rose. ''At first, I couldnt believe it at all. But now, I have a lot of confidence in myself. My faith in God has grown too along the way''.

**''Ive got my teammates and the franchise behind me, added Rose. The whole organization is behind me, so Im good. I know that if Im doing what Im supposed to do, the people here are going to take care of me. So I dont have anything to worry about''.

**''I got my dog back,' Rose said of Hinrich. 'I think at the time, I was a little bit too young to appreciate him. Now, knowing what kind of player he is, as well as the type of person that he is-he's a guy who wants to win. You've got to go with that, if anything. I'm the same way where I want to win at everything. So I know that I'm going to have somebody back there who is going to be fighting with me.'


Pacers add Luke Nevill, Ben Hansbrough for the training camp - by Eurobasket News

The Pacers have finalized their training camp roster barring any last-minute changes before their first practice on Oct. 2. Media day is Oct. 1.

Center Luke Nevill (7'2''-C-86, college: Utah), who played at Utah, and guard Ben Hansbrough (6'3''-G-87, college: Notre Dame), the little brother of Tyler Hansbrough, will round out the training camp roster.

The Pacers added Sam Young, Blake Ahearn and Sundiata Gaines to the roster earlier this month.

Those five players bring the roster up to 18 players. Teams can carry a maximum of 15 players. The Pacers are high on Youngs toughness. He didnt get to show it much last season because he spent most of the time on the bench in Memphis and Philly.


Heres a list of the players:

Ahearn
D.J. Augustin
Gaines
Paul George
Danny Granger
Gerald Green
Ben Hansbrough
Tyler Hansbrough
Roy Hibbert
George Hill
Orlando Johnson
Ian Mahinmi
Nevill
Jeff Pendergraph
Miles Plumlee
Lance Stephenson
David West
Young

Courtesy of http://blogs.indystar.com


Rockets guard Jeremy Lin back to 100 percent after knee surgery - by Eurobasket News

Fresh start. Clean bill of health.

After a summer filled with rehabilitation, free agency drama and a world tour, Houston Rockets guard Jeremy Lin (6'3''-PG-88, college: Harvard) said Tuesday that his left knee is 100 percent healthy following March knee surgery.

I'm good to go," Lin said, according to the Houston Chronicle. The paper also reported that Lin lost 10 pounds during the summer.

The Rockets open their preseason schedule against the Oklahoma City Thunder, the defending Western Conference champions, on Oct. 10 in Hidalgo, Texas. Their regular-season opener is Oct. 31 in Detroit against the Pistons.

A Taiwanese-American who played his college ball at Harvard, Lin is back in Houston as the team's starting point guard. Lin was waived by the Rockets in December 2011. The Knicks signed him and Lin skyrocketed to global superstardom with New York.

Lin, 24, averaged 14.6 points, 6.2 assists, 3.1 rebounds and 1.6 steals in 26.9 minutes per game for the Knicks last season. He made 35 appearances before undergoing the arthroscopic surgery that ended his season. The Knicks were expected to re-sign Lin but opted not to match Houston's three-year, $25 million back-loaded offer sheet.

This summer, Lin traveled to Taiwain, much to the delight of his fans there.

Courtesy of www.cbssports.com


Atlanta Hawks waive Jordan Williams - by Eurobasket News

According to a report on the team website Monday night, the Atlanta Hawks have waived former Torrington High star Jordan Williams (6'10''-F-90, college: Maryland).

The former Maryland University post man had never played a game for the Hawks. Williams was acquired by Atlanta in the offseason from the Brooklyn Nets. The Hawks received Williams, Anthony Morrow, DeShawn Stevenson, Johan Petro, Jordan Farmar, a first- and second-round pick, and draft considerations, in exchange for Joe Johnson.

Terms of the buyout were not released by the Hawks. Williams' guaranteed contract was for $762,000 this season. He played in 43 games last season, his rookie year, with the New Jersey Nets, and averaged 4.6 ppg, and 3.6 rebounds.

Courtesy of www.rep-am.com


Toronto Raptors re-sign Canadian centre Jamaal Magloire - by Eurobasket News

The Toronto Raptors have re-signed Canadian centre Jamaal Magloire (6'10''-F/C-78, college: Kentucky), retaining a veteran presence in the middle to compliment oncoming rookie Jonas Valanciunas.

Magloire averaged 1.2 points, 3.3 rebounds and 11.0 minutes in 34 appearances with the Raptors last season.

The Toronto native has career averages of 7.3 points, 5.3 rebounds and 21.9 minutes over 12 NBA seasons with Charlotte/New Orleans, Milwaukee, Portland, New Jersey, Miami and Toronto.

The 6-11, 265-pound Toronto native had his best season with the Hornets in 2003-04. He was named to the Eastern Conference all-star team and averaged 13.6 points, 10.3 rebounds. He was one of only 11 players that season to average a double-double.

Magloire, who signed as a free agent with the Raptors prior to last season, is the first Canadian-born player in the club's history.

He will serve as a mentor to Valanciunas, Toronto's prized centre prospect who is making his NBA debut this season.

Courtesy of www.vancouversun.com


Hapoel Holon Penned Former UConn Combo-Guard Jerome Dyson - by David Pick

Hapoel Holon penned explosive former UConn combo-guard Jerome Dyson, Israeli sources told Eurobasket. Dyson, 25, signed a one-year contract with no out clauses.

After ex-NBA shooter Luther Head mysteriously reneged on his agreement with Holon last month, and D.J. Strawberry surprisingly opted-out of his contract with the team, Holon is expected to announce Dyson's signing later today (Wednesday).

Dyson signed a two-year non-guaranteed deal with the New Orleans Hornets in December of 2011, at the conclusion of the NBA lockout, but was cut at the end of training camp. After a strong season in the D-League, he was again signed by the Hornets, and played nine games, averaging 20 minutes per contest. His best game in a NBA uniform came against the Memphis Grizzlies, where he scored 24 points in 27 minutes, getting to the free throw line 16 times.

New Orleans held on to his rights for the duration of the summer, until including his contract as part of the Robin Lopez trade with the Phoenix Suns in late July. The Suns waived Dyson last month.

The Rockville, Maryland native and European Rookie is a premier full court defender with a bullet-like first step, drawing comparisons to Euroleague guard Doron Perkins The University of Connecticut product collected 17.2 points, 4.3 rebounds, 4.2 assists and 1.3 steals as a college senior.



Marquis Daniels works out with Bucks - by Eurobasket News

After two stints in Boston, Marquis Daniels (6'6''-G/F-81, agency: Priority Sports, college: Auburn) remains an unsigned free agent as the Celtics round out their roster for the 2012-13 season.

On Monday, the veteran swingman worked out with the Milwaukee Bucks as he looks to enter his 10th year in the NBA, the Journal Sentinel reported. Daniels was joined by players including Rasual Butler and Rodney Carney at the Cousins Center, the Bucks training facility. According to the report, the Bucks have one spot available on their roster.

Daniels, 31, has averaged 8.2 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 1.8 assists over his career. Last season he averaged 3.2 points, 1.7 rebounds, and 1.2 dimes off the bench for the Celtics. His career was in jeopardy after suffering temporary paralysis due to spinal stenosis during a game against the Orlando Magic in February of 2011. Following spinal surgery, he vowed to the return to the NBA and did so less than a year later when he re-signed with the Celtics in December.

Im a guy I dont get too high on the highs or too low on the lows, Daniels told CSNNE.com last offseason as he rehabbed for his comeback. If that was going to be it for me, I was willing to accept it. But I knew that I still had love for the game and I still could play, so Im always going to work hard to try to get myself back to the things I love doing and get back on the court.

Last season he garnered praise during the playoffs for his always be ready approach to the game.

Marquis hasnt really played a lot for us in this series, but when his name was called upon, he was ready, Paul Pierce said during the Eastern Conference Finals against the Miami Heat. Thats what being a professional is all about. Every day he comes in, gets his work in. Doc called upon him tonight and he did a tremendous job guarding LeBron (James). He even contributed on the offensive end and that was huge for us.

Courtesy of www.csnne.com


Memphis Grizzlies waive D.J. Kennedy - by Eurobasket News

The Memphis Grizzlies waived guard/forward D.J. Kennedy (6'6''-G/F-89, agency: Interperformances, college: St.John's), Grizzlies General Manager and Vice President of Basketball Operations Chris Wallace announced today.

Kennedy (6-6, 215) averaged 6.0 points and 3.5 rebounds in 29.5 minutes in two games last season as a rookie for the Cleveland Cavaliers. The 22-year-old Pittsburgh native also posted 15.7 points, 7.3 rebounds and 4.4 assists in 37.3 minutes in 44 appearances with the Erie Bayhawks of the NBA Development League.

Memphis originally acquired the St. Johns product from Cleveland for Jeremy Pargo, a 2013 second round draft pick and cash considerations on July 25, 2012.

The Grizzlies roster now stands at 13 players.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com


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

NBLCANADA

Mill Rats to announce key player signing on Thursday - by Eurobasket News

The Saint John Mill Rats will be announcing the signing of a key player for their 2012-2013 NBL Canada season this Thursday, September 20th at 12pm ADT in the Brunswick Square Atrium.

Head Coach David Cooper says, "I'm excited to have this guy on our roster, first as a person and secondly, as a player. He is an exceptional athlete that can help us on both ends of the floor. He's a spark in the locker room, on the court and in the community. I'm excited to have the opportunity to coach and work with him".

The Saint John Mill Rats regular season opener is November 3rd at Harbour Station. Season tickets are on sale now at the Harbour Station Box Office and at the Mill Rats Fan Zone in Brunswick Square (next to Tim Hortons).

Courtesy of The Saint John Mill Rats


Gabe Freeman has signed a contract to play with the London Lightning - by Eurobasket News

The London Lightning have secured the services of last seasons National Basketball League of Canadas most valuable player for at least one more year.

Gabe Freeman (6'6''-F-85, college: Costa Mesa JC), who led the Lightning to the NBL championship, signed a contract with the club. He will be in London this month to help promote the upcoming season.

Also signed are forward Tim Ellis and guard DeAnthony Bowden, also returning players.

Lightning general manager Taylor Brown also expects forward Shamari Spears to return once the paperwork on the contract is returned.

One of the major issues, though, is the return of Eddie Smith. Smith was a major contributor to the title last year. Usually the first man off the bench, Smith took on a big role late in the season and through the playoffs, playing more than anyone else on the club.

His ability to handle the ball, score and draw fouls was one of the determining factors in the Lightning winning the title.

But with the signing period expired for protected players, Smith has not signed with the Lightning, opting instead to sign with the Laval Kebs.

The Lightning have to match the Kebs offer or Smith will be playing elsewhere this season.

(Brown, owner Vito Frijia and coach Micheal Ray Richardson are) meeting and we will be discussing what our options are, Brown said. Well know in the next day whether we will match the offer.

The Lightnings training camp begins the first week of October, with the NBL season starting the first week of November.

Brown said season tickets are now on sale and they have already surpassed the 600 season tickets sold all of last year.

Courtesy of www.lfpress.com


Halifax Rainmen sign NBL Canada's top scorer and All Star MVP - by Eurobasket News

The Halifax Rainmen are pleased to announce the signing of the National Basketball League of Canada's 2011-12 leading scorer, and All Star MVP, Brandon Robinson (6'6''-F-89, college: Clayton St.), to their roster.

Robinson, a six-foot-five, 185lb guard led all scorers in the NBL Canada last season, averaging 19.9 points per game.

"We are extremely excited to sign a player of this caliber," said Halifax Rainmen President & CEO, Andre Levingston. "Brandon will make the game easier for other players because he's such an offensive threat. He scores in so many ways. Last season he proved why he was one of the best players in our league as a rookie."

Brandon played two years at Clayton State a Division 2 school before joining the Oshawa Power last season.

"I am glad to be part of the Rainmen organization," stated Robinson. "I have spoken with Mr. Levingston on numerous ocassions and we see eye to eye on many things.This season is going to be big for the organization. Thanks to all the fans and supporters, and go Rainmen!"

Robinson will report to Rainmen training camp this October. For more information about the upcoming 2012-13 season, please visit www.rainmenbasketball.ca.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com


NBL Canada appoints Susan Gordon as Deputy Commissioner - by Eurobasket News

The National Basketball League of Canada is proud to announce that Ms. Susan Gordon has been appointed the new Deputy Commissioner.
Gordon, a Milton, Ontario native has 25 years of experience in marketing which includes being the former Vice President of National Marketing with Rogers Communications Inc.

"Our league is fortunate to hire a person like Susan Gordon to serve as Deputy Commissioner, "says NBL Canada President & CEO Andre Levingston. "She's extremely passionate about the game of basketball, and will truly be an asset for the growth and management of our League."

Ms. Susan Gordon spoke about her new position with the National Basketball League of Canada.

"I am excited to join NBL Canada as its Deputy Commissioner and thankful for the opportunity. I believe in the League's vision and as a passionate basketball fan, I look forward to helping the League grow into the future."

Ms. Gordon will oversee the application and enforcement of the League's rules, the presentation and protection of the NBL Canada brand, and will explore opportunities to grow the League through corporate partnership and business relationships.

Courtesy of NBL Canada


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

NCAA1

Jeweler settles suit against ex-Duke player - by Eurobasket News

Former Duke basketball player Lance Thomas (6'8''-F-88, college: Duke) has settled a lawsuit that accused him of failing to pay nearly $68,000 for jewelry purchased while he was part of the Blue Devils team that won the 2010 national championship.

Mike Bowers, the attorney for Rafaello & Co., said his client had agreed to settle the lawsuit against Thomas stemming from the nearly $100,000 in diamond jewelry the player purchased in the middle of the 2009-2010 season. The Dallas attorney said the terms are confidential, and he reiterated his client's unwillingness to discuss the matter with the NCAA, which is seeking details of the transaction.

''This is a private matter between my client and Mr. Thomas, and that's where it stands,'' Bowers said Tuesday.

Jon Jackson, Duke's associate athletic director for media relations and public affairs, said the settlement doesn't change an ongoing inquiry involving the university and the NCAA.

''The process remains the same in that Duke and the NCAA continue to work together on this matter,'' he said.

The lawsuit, filed in January in Austin, Texas, said Thomas owed $67,800 for five pieces of jewelry he purchased at a cost of $97,800. The invoice, dated Dec. 21, 2009, indicates that Thomas made a $30,000 down payment and agreed to pay the balance in 15 days.

Thomas started 39 games at forward for Duke in 2009-2010, his senior season, including the 61-59 victory over Butler in the NCAA championship game.

The lawsuit, which wasn't disclosed publicly until The Associated Press reported it earlier this month, has raised questions about Thomas' eligibility that season and whether Duke's national title could be affected. NCAA rules prohibit athletes from receiving benefits that aren't available to the student body as a whole.

NCAA spokeswoman Stacey Osburn said the organization would not comment on the settlement and what it might mean in terms of investigating the matter. NCAA rules require student-athletes and personnel at member schools to cooperate with the organization's inquiries, but there's nothing to compel people who aren't affiliated with those schools to do so.

Thomas, now with the New Orleans Hornets, was playing last season for the Austin Toros of the NBA Developmental League when the suit was filed. He wasn't drafted by an NBA team when he left Duke.

Joe Crews, the Austin attorney handling the matter for Thomas, did not immediately return a phone message from the AP seeking comment.

Rafaello & Co., which also does business as A+A Diamonds Ltd., promotes itself as a jeweler that caters to professional athletes and other celebrities. On its website, the jeweler says its customers include actor Jamie Foxx, singer Alicia Keys and New York Knicks star Carmelo Anthony.

The firm filed a similar lawsuit against Dallas Cowboys receiver Dez Bryant last year, asserting that he owed $240,000 for jewelry he purchased between January and May 2010. The purchases occurred after Bryant had left Oklahoma State and was waiting for the NFL draft.

That suit also was settled out of court.

Courtesy of Yahoo! Sports


Hapoel Tel Aviv inks rookie Toure Murry - by Eurobasket News

Toure Murry (195-G-89, college: Wichita St.) is set to start his professional basketball career. The American guard penned a 1-year deal with Hapoel Tel Aviv, according to tweet by WinnerLeague. They will compete in Israeli top division for men - Premier league. Murry is a product of Wichita State University, where he graduated few months ago. He had 12.2 ppg, 4.7 rpg and 3.3 apg for 33 games with his school as a senior. A year ago Wichita State won the NIT title. Murry played 37 games in his junior season registering 9.4 ppg, 4.5 rpg and 3.4 apg for 37 games. He spent all four years with Wichita State. In 2010 and 2010, Toure Murry was named to MVC All-Defensive Team and he was also awarded with -MVC Honorable Mention. In 2009, he was named to MVC All-Freshman Team. A year ago, Murry was awarded with All-MVC 2nd Team.


Ex-Rice star Kazemi eyeing Oregon, Kentucky among transfer options - by Eurobasket News

Former Rice star Arsalan Kazemi (6'7''-F-90) told SI.com that he's likely to decide on a transfer destination by the end of the week, and that while he's considering a number of options, Oregon and Kentucky are his "early leaders."

The senior power forward said he intends to petition the NCAA for a hardship waiver to play in 2012-13 rather than sitting out a transfer year, but declined to specify the grounds of the waiver request. Kazemi received his release from Rice on Monday -- news that was first reported by CBSSports.com -- and asked permission to speak with Cincinnati, Florida, Ohio State and Texas in addition to the Ducks and Wildcats. He said that list could potentially expand in the coming days.

Kazemi, who in 2009 became the first native Iranian to play Division I basketball, and is a member of Iran's senior national team, averaged 12.1 points and 10.3 rebounds as a junior for the Owls. He was expected to be a Conference USA Player of the Year candidate as a senior.

Kazemi said that rumors that he would turn professional in Europe or the Middle East were unfounded, and that he intends to finish his undergraduate degree at his transfer destination. Oregon is the lone school on Kazemi's list that has yet to start fall classes -- its first day is Sept. 24 -- and thus may be his most attractive option if he pursues a hardship waiver to play immediately.

Kazemi is the sixth player to leave the Rice program this offseason, following a 19-16 campaign under fifth-year coach Ben Braun. Center Omar Oraby left last week for USC; prior to that, David Chadwick transferred to Valparaiso, Dylan Ennis transferred to Villanova, Jarelle Reischel transferred to Rhode Island, and Ahmad Ibrahim opted to turn pro overseas.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com


MSU freshman Kenny Kaminski out 4-6 months after shoulder surgery - by Eurobasket News

Michigan State freshman forward Kenny Kaminski had successful surgery on his right shoulder Sept. 7 and likely will miss four to six months.

The 6-foot-7, 230-pounder from Medina, Ohio, had the surgery to repair a torn labrum.

He was a three-star recruit and was ranked the No. 113 player in the nation by Rivals.com in the 2012 recruiting class.

Kaminski was considered headed for a redshirt season in 2012-13. The surgery virtually guarantees that will be the plan.

Courtesy of www.detroitnews.com


Ex-Butler guard Chrishawn Hopkins to transfer - by Eurobasket News

Former Butler guard Chrishawn Hopkins (6'1''-G), who was kicked off the team last week for violation of team rules, plans to transfer.

'I will be transferring', Hopkins told The Indianapolis Star. 'It's just a matter of time.'

Hopkins, a 6-1 native of Indianapolis, averaged 9.1 points and 1.5 assists in 23 minutes per game as a sophomore. He has two years of eligibility.

He told the newspaper he is evaluating his options. If he transfers immediately to a Division I school on a quarter system, he could retain two full years of eligibility, playing the full 2013-14 season. If he transfers to a school on the semester system, he would only have 1 seasons of eligibility, starting at the Christmas break in 13. If he chooses a Division II school, he would be eligible to play immediately this fall.

Courtesy of http://aol.sportingnews.com


Doctors Tell Texas Tech coach to avoid stress for 30 days - by Eurobasket News

Texas Tech basketball coach Billy Gillispie says doctors have ordered him to avoid any stress for 30 days to try to bring his blood pressure down.

In a text message early Monday, Gillispie confirmed that he was treated for kidney problems and abnormal headaches while at the Mayo Clinic to which he went last week.

Gillispie is on indefinite sick leave from Texas Tech, which is set to begin practices Oct. 12.

Texas Tech athletic director Kirby Hocutt told Gillispie last week that he was no longer to make day-to-day decisions for the basketball program or to engage with it so he can focus on his health.

The school had no comment on Monday.

Associate head coach Chris Walker is now in charge.

Courtesy of www.kwtx.com


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

NIGERIA

Heat eyes The Champ again - by Iwedi Ojinmah



The NBA team, Miami Heat have showed a second interest in adding Nigerian small forward, Chamberlain Oguchi to their 15-man roster.

Oguchi has already worked out with Heat in early September.

The guard also worked out at San Antonio Spurs in the wake of reports linking him to several NBA teams after an impressive show at the summer Olympics in London with Nigeria's D'Tigers.

Took my talents to South Beach and had a great showing. Coach Spo and staff are amazing. Now time to take my talents to San Antonio, Oguchi recently wrote on his Twitter page.

The Nigerian is now close to earning a non-guaranteed deal from the Heat barring any hitch.

But Oguchi will face the duo of Garrett Temple and Terrel Harris for a roster spot in the rotation for the guard and small forward positions, if he eventually earns the non-guaranteed deal.

The Champ, as he is fondly called, has played college basketball in Oregon and Illinois, as remained an undrafted player.

But he went to play in the D-League with Maine Red Claws, in France with STB Le Havre, in the Philippines with Meraico Bolts, in Lebanon with Hoops Club as well as for Venezuelas Panteras de Miranda.


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

NORWAY

Berg is back at Baerum Basket - by Eurobasket

Baerum Basket (BLNO) agreed terms with 21-year old Norwegian guard Stian Berg (187-91). Its actually his comeback to Bekkestua as he played here before. Berg just graduated from N.Illinois (NCAA). In 29 games last season he had 3.4ppg and 1.2apg.
He was a member of Norwegian U20 National Team two years ago and a member of U18 National Team in 2009. Berg represented Norway at the European Championships U20 Division B in Sarajevo (Bosnia) last year. His stats at that event were 7 games: 13.6ppg, 2.9rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 45.5%, 3PT: 42.4%, FT: 74.2%.
As mentioned above he just graduated from N.Illinois and it will be his first season as a professional player.

By Eurobasket Data Center


Berg is back at Baerum Basket - by Eurobasket

Baerum Basket (BLNO) agreed terms with 21-year old Norwegian guard Stian Berg (187-91). Its actually his comeback to Bekkestua as he played here before. Berg just graduated from N.Illinois (NCAA). In 29 games last season he had 3.4ppg and 1.2apg.
He was a member of Norwegian U20 National Team two years ago and a member of U18 National Team in 2009. Berg represented Norway at the European Championships U20 Division B in Sarajevo (Bosnia) last year. His stats at that event were 7 games: 13.6ppg, 2.9rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 45.5%, 3PT: 42.4%, FT: 74.2%.
As mentioned above he just graduated from N.Illinois and it will be his first season as a professional player.

By Eurobasket Data Center


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

PHILIPPINES

Day 5 of the 2012 FIBA Asia Cup - by Enzo Flojo



The results of Day 5 formalized the quarterfinal pairings as the 2012 FIBA Asia Cup wound up its elimination round games. Both China and Lebanon blasted their respective foes to end up with identical 3-1 records. This was where the quotient system kicked in, effectively putting Lebanon atop Group A, followed by the Philippines at second and China at third. The Group B games, though, were both down-the-wire as Taiwan needed a buzzer-beater to beat Qatar, while Iran made another late rally to upend the hosts and sweep their elims assignments.

CHINA over MACAU, 106-46
The Chinese kept Macau winless with a merciless beating. Six players scored in double-figures for Coach Fan Bin, led by Cao Yans 16 points, which went along with his 9 rebounds and 3 assists. Guo Ailun, Duan Jiangpeng, and Wang Zhelin scored 13 points each to underscore Chinas dominance. The Chinese shot 51% from the field and more than doubled up on Macaus rebounds, assists, and steals totals. They also forced 23 Macanese turnovers while committing just 9 of their own. Macau saw only one player score in twin digits as Lao Fu In ended up with a dozen markers. China moves on to face Japan in the crossover quarterfinals.

CHN 106- Cao Y 16, Guo 13, Duan 13, Wang ZL 13, Zhao 12, Yu 10, Zhang 8, Wang ZR 7, Cao F 5, Wu 5, Sui 4, Sun 0
MAC 46- Lao FI 12, Iong KK 9, Lo 9, Lai 6, Cai 5, Cheong 5, Wong 0, Lao CP 0, Iong NS 0
QS: 24-17, 47-30, 79-39, 106-46

LEBANON over UZBEKISTAN, 84-49
Lebanon wasted no time in putting away the clearly overmatched Uzbeks. The WABA powerhouse squad started strong and never relinquished their big lead en route to their third win, which gave them Group As top spot going into the quarterfinals. As expected, Coach Ghassan Sarkiss boys dominated every aspect of the game, with Fadi El Khatib continuing to show great form. The iconic Lebanese cager scored a tournament-high 37 points on 14-of-19 FG shooting while also grabbing 11 rebounds and dishing out 5 assists. Big man Charles Tabet also accounted for himself quite well, scoring 13 markers and collaring 10 caroms. Only Aleksandr Kozlov finished in double-figures for Uzbekistan with 15 points on 7-of-11 shooting. Lebanons foe in the crossover knockout round is Qatar.

LIB 84- El Khatib F 37, Tabet 13, Rustom 10, Souaid 10, Stephan 5, Sarkis 5, El Khatib C 2, Hawe 2, Martinez 0
UZB 49- Kozlov 15, Juginisov 7, Denisov 6, Nuraliev 5, Rahimov 5, Yahin 4, Kadirov 4, Timofeev 3, Tangrikulov 0, Nabiev 0, Safarov 0
QS: 24-9, 41-23, 66-38, 84-49

TAIWAN over QATAR, 75-73
Qatar finally played their naturalized import, Trey Johnson, while Taiwans Lee Hsueh-Lin did not play at all in this down-the-wire encounter. Tien Lei and Lin Chih-Chieh connected on a last-second alley-oop play that propelled the EABA squad over its Gulf rival and into third place in Group B. It was a sorry defeat for Coach Tom Wismans wards, who held the lead throughout the first half only to see it evaporate in the face of tenacious play from the Taiwanese. The triple-tower combo of Tseng Weng-Ting, Wu Tai-Hao, and Tien produced a total of 41 points and 18 rebounds for Coach Hsu Chin-Che. Diminutive guard Chen Shih-Chieh filled in well in the absence of Lee by hitting 3 tryes en route to 15 big points, 6 boards, and 5 dimes. Qatar was led by Erfan Ali Saeed and Johnson, who scored 17 and 15 points respectively. In the next round, Taiwan will face the Philippines, while the Qataris take on the Lebanese.

TPE 75- Tseng 17, Wu 15, Chen SC 15, Tien 11, Chang 9, Lin 5, Lu 3, Su 0, Mao 0, Chen HA 0, Creighton 0
QAT 73- Saeed 17, Johnson 15, Mohammed B 12, Mohamed 7, Salem 7, Musa 5, Ali 4, Abdi 2, Mohammed M 2, Zaidan 2, El Hadary 0, Daoud 0
QS: 17-22, 35-36, 53-51, 75-73

IRAN over JAPAN, 71-65
Iran limited Japans outside shooting while asserting themselves down low as the WABA quintet rallied yet again for their third comeback victory. In this tight encounter, the boys of Coach Memi Becirovic outrebounded and outstole the hosts to gain a slight advantage into the homestretch. Once again, it was Samad Nikkhah Bahrami at the forefront of Irans attack, scoring 16 points to go along with 7 assists. He was backstopped by NT vets Hamed Afagh, Oshin Sahakian, and Asghar Kardoust, each of whom finished with a dozen points. Sahakian also outplayed Japans naturalized player, JR Sakuragi, who had his worst outing of the tournament so far. Ryota Sakurai and Kosuke Takeuchi led the Japanese with 14 and 12 points respectively. Takeuchi also grabbed 11 rebounds and blocked 1 shot. Iran has the lightest assignment of the second round as they square off against Uzbekistan, while Team Hayabusa takes on the young and dangerous Chinese.

IRI 71- Bahrami 16, Afagh 12, Sahakian 12, Kardoust 12, Davoudi 11, Foroutan 6, Arghavan 2, Aslani 0, Jamshidi 0
JPN 65- Sakurai 14, Takeuchi 12, Kanamaru 10, Furukawa 9, Sakuragi 8, Tanaka 5, Hiejima 4, Kurihara 3, Ichioka 0
QS: 13-17, 25-35, 46-51, 71-65

Source: HoopNut.blogspot.com


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

POLAND

Trefl Sopot keep Frank Turner - by Eurobasket News

Trefl Sopot bolstered their roster. They added Frank Turner (178-PG-88, agency: Court Side, college: Canisius). The guard spent the last season in Netherlands. He played for Eiffel Towers Den Bosch. Frank Turner notched 12.7 points, 3.7 rebounds, 4.6 assists and 1.9 steals per game. Recently Frank Turner stayed with Trefl Sopot for tryouts. His performance satisfied the coaching staff and the team finalized the deal with the guard. Frank Turner was named All-Dutch Eredivisie Guard of the Year in 2011. He became Eredivisie All-Star Game MVP in 2012. He also made it into All-Dutch Eredivisie 2nd Team in 2012.


Sokol Lancut wins pre-season tournament in Tarnobrzeg - by Eurobasket News

Sokol Lancut clinched the title at pre-season tournament Tarnobrzeg. They defeated Jezioro Tarnobrzeg in the Final 90:86. Damian Pieloch (195-F-89) came up with 20 points to lead the winners.
Sokol Lancut built a 52:40 halftime lead. Jezioro Tarnobrzeg got within two points at the final break. But Sokol survived the challenge and sealed the victory at the end. Kacper Mlynarski (200-F-92) posted 17 points, while Maciej Klima (205-C-82) added 16 points for the winners. The hosts answered with 22 points from Xavier Alexander (198-G-88, college: S.Nazarene). Jakub Dloniak (192-F-83, agency: Promotex) had 21 points in the loss.
Polonia Przemysl clinched the second position. They defeated MOSiR Krosno 69:67 in consolation final. Grzegorz Kukielka (192-G-83, agency: Promotex) posted 20 points to lead the charge. Dariusz Wyka (207-C-91) added 15 points for Polonia. Wojciech Pisarczyk (201-F-88) and Dariusz Oczkowicz (183-PG-81) replied with 14 points each for MOSiR Krosno.


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

QATAR

2012 Fiba Asia Cup: Taiwan edge Qatar in a thriller - by Eurobasket News

Qatar-Taiwan 73:75

Taiwan edge Qatar in a thriller at the 2012 Fiba Asia Cup. Taiwan grabbed 75:73 win to finish the group with 2-2 record on the third place. Qatar meanwhile ended up with 1-3 record on the fourth position.
Qatar won the first period 22-17 but led only 1 point at the halftime as Taiwan needed 18-14 to reduce the score. Moreover Taiwan grabbed the lead after 18-15 in the third quarter and had 53:51 advantage. Both teams scored 22 points in the last stanza for the final result. Tien Lei (202-F-83) made the final dunk with 1 second to go to give his side the necessary win.
Tseng Wen-Ting (203-F/C-84) top-scored for the winners with 17 points and Chen Shih-Chieh (176-G-84) as well as Wu Tai-Hao (203-F/C-85, college: BYU-Hawaii) posted 15 each. Tien Lei followed them with 11 points in the winning effort. Erfan Ali (198-PF-83) posted 17 points in defeat and Clinton Fihnoir Johnson (193-G-84) had 15. Baker Ahmad (199-F-86) nailed 12, while Omar Abdelkader (206-C-83) notched 7.

Qatar: Erfan Ali 17, Clinton Fihnoir Johnson 15, Baker Ahmad 12, Omar Abdelkader 7
Taiwan: Tseng Wen-Ting 17, Chen Shih-Chieh 15, Wu Tai-Hao 15, Tien Lei 11


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

RUSSIA

Spartak Saint Petersburg topple Lugano Tigers - by Eurobasket News

Spartak SP - Lugano Tigers 82:56

Spartak Saint Petersburg played the last sixth game at the training camp in Bormio. They faced Lugano Tigers from Switzerland. Spartak dominated the game and posted well-deserved win at the end. Loukas Mavrokefalidis (209-C-84) accounted for 18 points and 11 rebounds for the winners.
Spartak gained a 23:15 lead at the first break. Lugano cut the deficit to 6 points at halftime 39:45. But Spartak increased the tempo in the third term. The Russian team cleared off to a 17-point distance before the fourth quarter. Spartak limited the Tigers to just 4 points in the fourth frame and sealed the win. Janis Strelnieks (191-PG-89) provided 15 points, while Josh Carter (201-F/G-88, college: Texas A&M) added 14 points in the victory. Korvotney Barber (201-F-87, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Auburn) responded with 21 points for Lugano. Dusan Mladjan (198-SG-86, agency: Interperformances) added 11 points in the loss.

Spartak SP: Loukas Mavrokefalidis 18, Janis Strelnieks 15, Josh Carter 14
Lugano Tigers: Korvotney Barber 21, Dusan Mladjan 11


Triumph and Enisey won the latest games - by Eurobasket News

Triumph overcame Pasvalis 79:78. The Russian team led 17:14 after the first period, bit the Baltic side replied with 24-20 in the second frame to take 1-point lead at the halftime. Moreover Pasvalis added 23-20 in the third period and led 4 points at the end of the third period. Triumph however needed a 22/17 surge in the last stanza to seal the victory. Kyle Landry (207-C/F-86, college: N.Arizona) stepped up with 17 points and Naimi had 13. Sergey Karasev (202-SG-93) delivered 12 and Mitchell posted 10.
Enisey outscored Zadar 70:62. The Russian side won the first period 20-12, but lost the second frame 20-13. Moreover Zadar grabbed the lead due to 16-12 in the third quarter, while Enisey needed 25-14 in the last stanza to seal the victory. Jason Rich (191-G-86) top-scored for the winners with 16 points and Petr Gubanov (207-PF-87) netted 9.


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

RWANDA

2012/2013 basketball league underway - by Eurobasket News

The 2012/2013 season of the Rwanda national Basketball League in both the womens and mens categories has finally been scheduled to kick off at the end of September.
The information has been made public by the countrys basketball federations Secretary General, Richard Mutabazi. The competition was initially billed for May 2012 but was adjourned for reasons not clearly specified. Various clubs wishing to take part to the competition had till yesterday to get registered. Last season, eight participating teams registered in the mens category while five teams contended in the womens.
Courtesy of: starafrica.com


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

SCOTLAND

Standings National League Standings  1. C.Eriksson F. 2-0   2. Edinburgh K. 2-0   3. Troon T. 2-0   4. St.Mirren S. 1-0   5. Glasgow Univ. 1-1   6. Stirling K. 1-1   7. Glasgow R. II 0-1   8. Boroughmuir 0-2   9. Dunfermline R. 0-2   10. Glasgow Storm 0-2  Regular Season: Round 3 Sep. 22: Dunfermline R. - Boroughmuir Sep. 22: Glasgow Storm - Glasgow R. II Sep. 22: Glasgow Univ. - C.Eriksson F. Sep. 22: St.Mirren S. - Edinburgh K. Sep. 22: Troon T. - Stirling K.

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

SERBIA

Marko Keselj passes medical tests, officially joins Valencia - by Eurobasket News

Marko Keselj (206-SF-88, agency: Beo Basket) officially became a new member of Valencia. The Serbian National Team small forward successfully passed medical tests and will be presented by the team today. Few days ago Valencia signed Keselj to a 1-year deal. The player arrived from Olympiakos, where he spent last two seasons. In the latest one they won Euroleague and Greek league titles. The Serbian National Team player had 3.9 ppg and 2 rpg in 14 Euroleague games. He also added 5.8 ppg and 2.5 rpg for 26 appearances in domestic championship. In 2011, the Reds won Greek Cup. Before Olympiakos, Marko Keselj played two years for Crvena Zvezda. In the past, he also was a member of Koln 99ers, Girona, OKK Beograd and Avala Ada. In 2007 with Girona Keselj won FIBA EuroCup title. He is active member of the Serbian NT since 2010. Keselj averaged 11.1 points and 3.1 rebounds for 9 games at FIBA World Championship in Turkey two years ago, while Serbia reached Semifinals. Last summer in Lithuania the player had 9.1 ppg and 3.5 rpg for 11 appearances. This summer Keselj averaged 4.6 points and 3 rebounds for 7 games in 2013 EuroBasket Qualifications. Marko Keselj will make his debut with Valencia today. The team will host Cajasol in a friendly game.


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

SEYCHELLES

Beau Vallon Heat in 1st division after 4 seasons - by Eurobasket News

Seychelles basketball club, Beau Vallon Heat is back in the national elite one league after being in the second division for four seasons.
They grabbed the tiers league title over the weekend to earn an automatic promotion. Headed by Guy Hall as coach, Beau Vallon Heat replace Cascade Bullets who have been demoted to the lower division.

Courtesy of: StarAfrica.com


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

SLOVAKIA

Michal Batka will play next season in Prievidza - by Michal Duchovic

The team of BC Prievidza has today officially announced that they have signed Michal Batka (204-PF-87) from BK 04 AC LB Spisska Nova Ves. Batka was three years member of BK 04 AC LB Spisska Nova Ves. Before that he was playing in Kosice. Last season he started as a member of starting five in 32 games with average of 15.7ppg, 7.1rpg, 1.7apg and 1.0bpg. He was included in All-Slovakian League Honorable Mention and Slovakian League All-Domestic Players Team. This year he participated in Slovakian National Team. He started in all qualifying games with 6.2 points and 3.3 rebounds per game.


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

SLOVENIA

Calvin Hampton left LOGO Grosuplje - by Rado Markovic Hribernik

American big man Calvin Hampton (208-F/C-86, college: Oregon St.), who joined the newcomer of the Slovenian Telemach league LOGO Grosuplje this summer, is already on his way home. Coaching staff of the Slovenian team decided that the player couldn't addapt to new environment in the way that it was necessary, so the contract was terminated before the start of the new club season. The club is already searching for possible replacements.


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

SPAIN

Unicaja downs CAI Zaragoza 93-82 in preseason game - by Eurobasket News

Unicaja - CAI Zaragoza 93-82

Unicaja and CAI Zaragoza met last night in a friendly game. The Malaga team was better celebrating 93-82 victory in this meeting. The game was played in Huesca. Unicaja made 23-18 lead in the opening ten minutes and managed to keep plus five until the halftime. Third quarter was the crucial one in this game as Unicaja made 33-23 for 15-point lead with ten minutes to go. Zaragoza was not able to reply for rest of the way. Txemi Urtasun (193-G-84, agency: Interperformances) paced Unicaja with 23 points and Marcus Williams (191-G-85, college: Connecticut) netted 15 points. Earl Calloway (191-G-83, college: Indiana) and Zoran Dragic (196-F/G-89) scored 12 points each, while James Gist (205-F-86) added 11. In defeat, Jon Stefansson (196-G-82) responded with 14 points. Michael Roll (196-G-87, college: UCLA) and Henk Norel (214-C-87) scored 12 points apiece. CAI Zaragoza will play against Blusens Monbus Obradoiro on Wednesday in another friendly.

Unicaja: Txemi Urtasun 23, Marcus Williams 15, Earl Calloway 12, Zoran Dragic 12, James Gist 11
CAI Zaragoza: Jon Stefansson 14, Michael Roll 12, Henk Norel 12


Marko Keselj passes medical tests, officially joins Valencia - by Eurobasket News

Marko Keselj (206-SF-88, agency: Beo Basket) officially became a new member of Valencia. The Serbian National Team small forward successfully passed medical tests and will be presented by the team today. Few days ago Valencia signed Keselj to a 1-year deal. The player arrived from Olympiakos, where he spent last two seasons. In the latest one they won Euroleague and Greek league titles. The Serbian National Team player had 3.9 ppg and 2 rpg in 14 Euroleague games. He also added 5.8 ppg and 2.5 rpg for 26 appearances in domestic championship. In 2011, the Reds won Greek Cup. Before Olympiakos, Marko Keselj played two years for Crvena Zvezda. In the past, he also was a member of Koln 99ers, Girona, OKK Beograd and Avala Ada. In 2007 with Girona Keselj won FIBA EuroCup title. He is active member of the Serbian NT since 2010. Keselj averaged 11.1 points and 3.1 rebounds for 9 games at FIBA World Championship in Turkey two years ago, while Serbia reached Semifinals. Last summer in Lithuania the player had 9.1 ppg and 3.5 rpg for 11 appearances. This summer Keselj averaged 4.6 points and 3 rebounds for 7 games in 2013 EuroBasket Qualifications. Marko Keselj will make his debut with Valencia today. The team will host Cajasol in a friendly game.


Valencia celebrates in official team presentation, beats Cajasol 80-68 - by Eurobasket News

Valencia Basket - Cajasol 80-68

Valencia Basket downed Cajasol 80-68 last night in a friendly game. It was the official presentation of Valencia for the upcoming season. The game was played at Valencia's home court Fuente de San Luis in the front of 6000 spectators. Pau Ribas (193-PG-87) top-scored for the winners with 19 points and Serhiy Lishchuk (210-C/F-82, agency: Beo Basket) followed him with 15 pts. Bojan Dubljevic (205-PF-91, agency: Beo Basket) and Thomas Kelati (195-G/F-82, agency: Beo Basket, college: Washington St.) helped their team with 11 and 10 points respectively. In the loosing squad, Brian Asbury (200-SF-86, college: Miami, FL) shined with 17 points and he was their only player in double digits. Tomas Satoransky (201-PG-91) stopped to 8 points in this defeat. Valencia made 18-13 lead in the opening ten minutes of the game and continued with 24-19 in Q2. It means that the hosts were up by 10 at the halftime and they managed to keep the comfortable lead for rest of the way. Q3 ended with 21-21, while Valencia was better in the last ten minutes 17-15.

Valencia Basket: San Miguel (4), Martinez (9), Thomas Kelati (10), Doellman (8), Serhiy Lishchuk (15), Pau Ribas (19), Abia, Bojan Dubljevic (11) y Pietrus (4).
Cajasol: Tepic (2) , Sastre (4), Brian Asbury (17), Buckman (7), Triguero (7), Burjanadze (7), Tomas Satoransky (8), Porzingis (2), Balvin (2) Holland (5), Bogdanovic (7).


Caja Laboral's Milko Bjelica two weeks out - by Eurobasket News

Milko Bjelica (205-F/C-84, agency: Beo Basket) will miss next two weeks due to injury. The player has bilateral patellar tendinopathy (both knees). He will undergo rich plasma therapy and will be back on the court in two weeks. Bjelica joined Caja Laboral last summer from Lietuvos Rytas. He had 7.5 ppg and 3.2 rpg for 38 games in Liga Endesa. Caja Laboral reached Playoff Semifinals and they also played in Copa del Rey Semis. In Euroleague Bjelica added 10.6 ppg and 3.9 rpg for 8 appearances. As mentioned above, before Caja Laboral Milko Bjelica played for Lirtuvos Rytas and Koeln 99ers. He also has experience from New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig and Crvena Zvezda. Milko Bjelica is active member of the Montenegrin National Team since 2008. This summer they booked a ticket for the 2013 EuroBasket in Slovenia with perfect 10-0 record.


Torneo Cocinas: Caja Laboral edge EA7 Emporio Armani - by Eurobasket News

Caja Laboral- EA7 Emporio Armani 89:85

Caja Laboral edge EA7 Emporio Armani at the Torneo Cocinas. The Spanish side won the thriller 89:85 in their opener.
Both teams nailed 19 points each in the first period and looked great in the court. The hosts meanwhile grabbed 7-point lead at the halftime after 24-17 surge. The Italian side was too fat to give up and responded with 21-17 in the third period. They tried to come up closer, but lost the last period 28-29 and the game itself.
Andres Nocioni (199-SF-79) and Brad Oleson (191-G-83, agency: Duran International, college: Alaska-Fairb.) top-scored for the winners with 15 points each, while Pleiss added 13. Carlos Cabezas (186-PG-80) netted 12, Fabien Causeur (193-SG-87) scored 11 and San Emeterio delivered 10. Keith Langford (193-SG-83, college: Kansas) replied with 18 points in the losing effort and Antonis Fotsis (209-F-81) as well as Richard Hendrix (204-C/F-86, college: Alabama) had 13 each. Bourousis and Hairston followed them with 8 points apiece.

Caja Laboral: Andres Nocioni 15, Brad Oleson 15, Pleiss 13, Carlos Cabezas 12, Fabien Causeur 11, San Emeterio 10
EA7 Emporio Armani: Keith Langford 18, Antonis Fotsis 13, Richard Hendrix 13, Bourousis 8, Hairston 8


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

SWITZERLAND

Starwings start pre-season action - by Eurobasket News

Starwings played their first test game in the preparations for the upcoming season. They took in Swiss Central Basket in Luzern. The LNA side proved the strength celebrating a comfortable 87:51 victory. Justin Dobbins (203-C/F-87, agency: Pro Partner Sports Management, college: E.Michigan) fired 29 points to lead the winners.
Starwings dominated from the early stages of the game. They cleared off in the first half. Starwings posted a 41:21 halftime lead. The LNA side kept Swiss Central Basket at bay throughout the second half. Starwings never looked back en route to a comfortable win. Jaraun Burrows (203-F-85, agency: Warren Sports International, college: IPFW) knocked down 19 points, while Tony McCrory (199-G/F-77, college: Simon Fraser) had 7 points for Starwings. Stan Leemans (205-C-92) answered with 15 points for Swiss Central.


Spartak Saint Petersburg topple Lugano Tigers - by Eurobasket News

Spartak SP - Lugano Tigers 82:56

Spartak Saint Petersburg played the last sixth game at the training camp in Bormio. They faced Lugano Tigers from Switzerland. Spartak dominated the game and posted well-deserved win at the end. Loukas Mavrokefalidis (209-C-84) accounted for 18 points and 11 rebounds for the winners.
Spartak gained a 23:15 lead at the first break. Lugano cut the deficit to 6 points at halftime 39:45. But Spartak increased the tempo in the third term. The Russian team cleared off to a 17-point distance before the fourth quarter. Spartak limited the Tigers to just 4 points in the fourth frame and sealed the win. Janis Strelnieks (191-PG-89) provided 15 points, while Josh Carter (201-F/G-88, college: Texas A&M) added 14 points in the victory. Korvotney Barber (201-F-87, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Auburn) responded with 21 points for Lugano. Dusan Mladjan (198-SG-86, agency: Interperformances) added 11 points in the loss.

Spartak SP: Loukas Mavrokefalidis 18, Janis Strelnieks 15, Josh Carter 14
Lugano Tigers: Korvotney Barber 21, Dusan Mladjan 11


Lugano Tigers keep Nick George, Courtney Walters joins BBC Nyon - by Luca Maffioli

Lugano Tigers extended the deal with Nick George (175-F). The 30-years old forward will play another year in Lugano. George arrived in march and he averaged 6.5 points and 2.1 rebounds.
BBC Nyon agreed terms with 25-year old power forward/center Courtney Walters (208-F). The Jamaican player spent 2010-2011 season at Northwood University (NAIA I). He averaged 7.9 points, 7.8 rebounds and 1.3 assists per game. Walters won the bronze medal with Jamaican National Team at Centrobasket 2012 .


Monthey narrowly edge Geneve Lions in friendly - by Eurobasket News

Monthey - Geneve Lions 62:61

Monthey and Geneve Lions continued their preparations for the upcoming season. They clashed in a test game lately. Monthey eked out a narrow win. Adnan Hodzic (203-F-88, college: Lipscomb) stepped up with 22 points to lead the winning side.
Monthey jumped to 12:3 lead early in the game. They secured a 15:10 advantage after ten minutes. Monthey maintained the lead throughout the second frame. They accumulated a 37:30 halftime advantage. Geneve Lions cut the deficit to just three points at the final intermission 49:52. The teams stayed neck and neck throughout the fourth period however Monthey were able to succeed at the end. Shay Shine (187-G-89, college: High Point) accounted for 9 points, while Drew Neitzel (183-G-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: Michigan St.) added 7 points in the victory. Andrej Stimac (204-F/C-79) and Juwann James (198-F/C-87, agency: Pro Partner Sports Management, college: JMU) answered with 12 points each for the Lions.

Monthey: Adnan Hodzic 22, Shay Shine 9, Drew Neitzel 7
Geneve Lions: Andrej Stimac 12, Juwann James 12


Lugano Tigers keep Nicholas George for 2012/13 - by Eurobasket News

Lugano Tigers announced signing of a 1-year contract extension with Nicholas George (199-F-82, agency: Two Points, college: VCU). It will be their second season together. The British forward arrived to Lugano in March this year. He appeared 14 times in LNA averaging 6.5 points and 2.1 rebounds. George started the season with Italian Ass.Pallacanestro Sant' Antimo. There he had 15 ppg and 4.6 rpg for 9 LegaDue games. They parted ways in January and player moved to Lugano two months later. Lugano Tigers won the LNA title and Cup trophy last season and they hope to repeat in 2012/13. From 2008 to 2011 Nicholas George played for Fastweb Junior Casale Monferrato. Actually he started 2008/09 season with Gravelines and after few months moved to Casale. In the past, George played for Alicante, Imola, Benetton and VCU University.


BBC Nyon gets bigger with Courtney Walters - by Eurobasket News

BBC Nyon announced singing of Courtney Walters (208-F) for the upcoming season. He will be used at positions 4 and 5. Walters is active member of the Jamaican National Team. They won the bronze medal this summer at 2012 Centrobasket in San Juan. However, Walters had very limited playing time at this event averaging less than a point in 3 games. Courtney Walters graduated at Northwood University (NAIA) a year ago. He had 7.9 ppg and 7.8 rpg for his school as a senior. In 2009/10 the player had 2.4 ppg and 2.9 rpg. He transferred to Northwood in 2009 from Iowa Central CC (JUCO). Walters started college career at Mineral Area CC (JUCO) in 2006.


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

TAIWAN

2012 Fiba Asia Cup: Taiwan edge Qatar in a thriller - by Eurobasket News

Qatar-Taiwan 73:75

Taiwan edge Qatar in a thriller at the 2012 Fiba Asia Cup. Taiwan grabbed 75:73 win to finish the group with 2-2 record on the third place. Qatar meanwhile ended up with 1-3 record on the fourth position.
Qatar won the first period 22-17 but led only 1 point at the halftime as Taiwan needed 18-14 to reduce the score. Moreover Taiwan grabbed the lead after 18-15 in the third quarter and had 53:51 advantage. Both teams scored 22 points in the last stanza for the final result. Tien Lei (202-F-83) made the final dunk with 1 second to go to give his side the necessary win.
Tseng Wen-Ting (203-F/C-84) top-scored for the winners with 17 points and Chen Shih-Chieh (176-G-84) as well as Wu Tai-Hao (203-F/C-85, college: BYU-Hawaii) posted 15 each. Tien Lei followed them with 11 points in the winning effort. Erfan Ali (198-PF-83) posted 17 points in defeat and Clinton Fihnoir Johnson (193-G-84) had 15. Baker Ahmad (199-F-86) nailed 12, while Omar Abdelkader (206-C-83) notched 7.

Qatar: Erfan Ali 17, Clinton Fihnoir Johnson 15, Baker Ahmad 12, Omar Abdelkader 7
Taiwan: Tseng Wen-Ting 17, Chen Shih-Chieh 15, Wu Tai-Hao 15, Tien Lei 11


Taiwan beat Qatar on Tiens buzzer-beating dunk - by Chris Wang

Tien Lei (202-F-83) made a tie-breaking alley-oop dunk with 1.4 seconds left as Taiwan beat Qatar 75-73 in its last preliminary game on Tuesday in the 2012 FIBA Asia Cup tournament in Tokyo, Japan.

With 1.4 seconds left, Taiwan NT came out of a timeout and executed a near perfect set play by head coach Hsu Chin-tse for the surprising win.

Tien came off a backdoor screen by point guard Chen Shih-chieh, who missed both free-throws earlier and missed an opportunity to take a two-point lead, took off toward the basket and took an inbound pass from Lin Chih-chieh for the game-winning alley-oop dunk.

As insignificant as the game might be, Tiens game-winner may go down as one of the best shots in the history of Taiwan NT.

Tien had 11 points and 9 rebounds while Chen Shih-chieh, who started the game for injured Lee Hsueh-lin, had 15 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists.

Clinton Johnson and Erfan Ali Saeed combined for 32 points for Qatar.

With the win, Taiwan finished 2-2 in the preliminary round and ranked third in Group B. It will face the Philippines in the quarterfinal round on Thursday.

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

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

Quarterfinal on Sept. 20
11:30 Uzbekistan vs. Iran
14:00 Taiwan vs. Philippines
16:30 Qatar vs. Lebanon
19:00 China vs. Japan


Rockets guard Jeremy Lin back to 100 percent after knee surgery - by Eurobasket News

Fresh start. Clean bill of health.

After a summer filled with rehabilitation, free agency drama and a world tour, Houston Rockets guard Jeremy Lin (6'3''-PG-88, college: Harvard) said Tuesday that his left knee is 100 percent healthy following March knee surgery.

I'm good to go," Lin said, according to the Houston Chronicle. The paper also reported that Lin lost 10 pounds during the summer.

The Rockets open their preseason schedule against the Oklahoma City Thunder, the defending Western Conference champions, on Oct. 10 in Hidalgo, Texas. Their regular-season opener is Oct. 31 in Detroit against the Pistons.

A Taiwanese-American who played his college ball at Harvard, Lin is back in Houston as the team's starting point guard. Lin was waived by the Rockets in December 2011. The Knicks signed him and Lin skyrocketed to global superstardom with New York.

Lin, 24, averaged 14.6 points, 6.2 assists, 3.1 rebounds and 1.6 steals in 26.9 minutes per game for the Knicks last season. He made 35 appearances before undergoing the arthroscopic surgery that ended his season. The Knicks were expected to re-sign Lin but opted not to match Houston's three-year, $25 million back-loaded offer sheet.

This summer, Lin traveled to Taiwain, much to the delight of his fans there.

Courtesy of www.cbssports.com


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

TURKEY

Kavala grabs 75-74 win against Olin Edrine - by Eurobasket News

Kavala - Olin Edrine 75-74

Kavala and Olin Edrine played a friendly game last weekend. The Greek squad grabbed 75-74 victory in this meeting. Simeon Iliev (202-F-89, agency: Interperformances) stepped up for the winners with 18 points. Christoforos Stefanidis (185-PG-80) and Jeremy Fears (196-G-85, college: Bradley) secured a nice help for Kavala scoring 11 points each. James Nunnally (200-G/F-90, college: UCSB) added 10 pts. Three more Kavala players made it to the list of scorers in this game. At the other side, Olin Edrine got the most from Belarusian big guy Artsiom Parakhouski (210-C-87, college: Radford). He nailed 20 points in this meeting and Bekir Yarangume (200-SF-79) scored 16. David Jelinek (194-SG-90) and Nemanja Protic (182-G-86) posted 14 and 13 points respectively. Both teams will play more friendly games this week.

Kavala: Panos 1, James Nunnally 10, Nigger, Kalambaka Koleman 9, Stylianou Jeremy Fears 11, Pievalitsa, Karathanasis 7, Velissariou, Simeon Iliev 18, Gkritsiefski 10, Christoforos Stefanidis 11.
Olin Edirne: Berkay Candan 2, Pertev Onguner , Bekir Yarangume 16, Levent Bilgin 4, Nemanja Protic 13, Sasa Cuic 2, Davud Kamer 3, Artsiom Parakhouski 20, David Jelinek 14.


Besiktas reportedly agrees with Randal Falker - by Eurobasket News

Besiktas agreed terms with Randal Falker (201-F-85, college: S.Illinois) for the upcoming season, according to various Turkish media. He spent last four years with Cholet, where his coach was Erman Kunter (new Besiktas HC). Falker appeared 34 times in ProA last season averaging 6.2 points, 6.4 rebounds, 2.4 assists and 1.5 blocks. They reached ProA, French Cup and Semaine des As Semifinals. A year ago, Cholet was the Supercup winner. In 2009/10 season Randal Falker helped Cholet to win the ProA title. He had 7 ppg and 7.5 rpg for 36 games that season. In 2010/11, he collected 6.6 ppg and 5.9 rpg fro 9 Euroleague appearances. Cholet reached EuroChallenge Finals three years ago. Randal Falker is a product of Southern Illinois University, where he graduated in 2008.
The signing is not official.


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

UKRAINE

Volynbasket tab Zozulia, Alekseychuk and Dubnyuk - by Eurobasket News

Volynbasket bolstered their roster with addition of three new players. They added Anatoli Dubnyuk (202-F-76), Stanislav Alekseychuk (214-C-87) and Yuri Zozulia (189-PG-81).
Yuri Zozulia started the previous season with Cherkasy. The guard notched 1.5 points and 1.0 assists per game in Superleague. Later Yuri Zozulia moved to MBC Mykolaiv. His stats read 1.0 point and 1.0 board per game there.
Stanislav Alekseychuk played for Aviastar last season. The centre notched 8.6 points and 3.3 boards per game in Higher League.
Anatoli Dubnyuk spent the last two seasons with Hoverla. He notched 0.6 points per game in EuroChallenge last season. In Superleague the forward posted 1.3 points and 1.6 rebounds per appearance.


Ventpsils snatch win over BC Odessa - by Eurobasket News

Ventspils - BC Odessa 78:77

Ventspils claimed a narrow win over BC Odessa in pre-season action. Donald Sims (185-PG-87, college: Appalachian St.) scored 26 points to lead the Latvian team.
Ventspils eked out a 19:16 lead after ten minutes. They maintained the lead throughout the second frame. Ventspils ensured a 39:34 halftime advantage. BC Odessa turned things around in the third term. The Ukrainian side went on a 25:11 rally to post a 9-point lead at the final intermission. But Ventspils quickly denied the deficit. They pulled ahead 68:67 midway through the fourth frame. Ventspils stayed in front and sealed the victory at the end. Arturs Berzins (204-PF-88, agency: FCM) and Martins Laksa (200-SF-90, agency: FCM) notched 10 points each for the winners. Andriy Agafonov (208-PF-86, agency: Interperformances) answered with 24 points for BC Odessa. Hernst Laroche (185-G, college: N.Mexico St.) added 17 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists in the loss.

Ventspils: Donald Sims 26, Arturs Berzins 10, Martins Laksa 10
BC Odessa: Andriy Agafonov 24, Hernst Laroche 17


Hoverla bring back Patrick Sparks - by Eurobasket News

Patrick Sparks (184-G-83, college: Kentucky) is back in Ukraine. The guard joined Hoverla. He is currently at the training camp in Lithuania with the Ivano-Frankivsk team. Patrick Sparks used to play for Hoverla in 2008/10 seasons. He notched 16.3 points, 3.4 rebounds, 5.1 assists and 1.9 steals per game in Superleague. Last season Patrick Sparks spent in Germany. He played for Phoenix Hagen. His stats read 4.6 points, 5.0 assists, 1.2 rebounds and 1.2 steals per game in BBL. Patrick Sparks was the member of USA University National Team back in 2005. He earned All-Ukrainian UBL Honourable Mention in 2009.


Hoverla beat Juventus in friendly - by Eurobasket News

Juventus - Hoverla 75:92

Hoverla claimed another pre-season victory. They rallied past Juventus in Utena. Patrick Sparks (184-G-83, college: Kentucky) scored 18 points to lead the winners.
Hoverla jumped ahead in the opening quarter. They secured a 24:17 lead after ten minutes. Juventus almost denied the deficit in the second term. They got within one point at the interval 44:45. Hoverla boosted the lead in the third term. The Ukrainian team ensured a 4-point buffer before the fourth frame. Hoverla used a 9:0 run in the final quarter to clear off and rolled to the victory at the end. Darrick Leonard (188-G-84, college: Aurora) topscored with 16 points for Juventus. Nerijus Varnelis (201-F-78) added 13 points, while Arvydas Cepulis (196-G-79) had 10 points in the loss.


Budivelnyk Kyiv and Larry Owens part ways - by Eurobasket News

Budivelnyk Kyiv parted ways with Larry Owens (201-G/F-83, college: ORU), who was brought in recently for tryout. The team decided there is no need for reinforcement at position 3. A week ago Gravelines and Owens terminated their deal. The player signed for the French squad earlier this summer. Last season he appeared in 6 NBA games with the New Jersey Nets averaging 2.2 points and 2.2 rebounds. The player spent most of the year in D-League. There he had 12.7 ppg, 4.4 rpg and 3.5 apg for 31 games with Tulsa 66ers. In 2010/11, Larry Owens had 6.2 ppg and 2.2 rpg for 5 games with the Washington Wizards. He also spent some time with San Antonio Spurs and Tulsa 66ers. In the past, Owens played for Liege and Clermont.


Yuriy Lokhmanchuk leaves SK Cherkasy Monkeys - by Eurobasket News

Yuriy Lokhmanchuk (197-G/F-87) is no longer a member of SK Cherkasy Monkeys. The Ukrainian swingman left the club yesterday. Lokhmanchuk signed with Cherkasy earlier this summer. He played for the club also from 2006 to 2009. Last two and a half seasons Yuriy Lokhmanchuk spent with SK Dnipro Azot Dniprodzerzhynsk. In the latest one he had 3.6 ppg and 1.8 rpg for 8 games. In the past, he was a member of Budivelnyk Kyiv, SC Mariupol and Azovmash-2 Mariupol. Yuriy Lokhmanchuk played for the Ukrainian U20 National Team in 2006 and 2007. They won the silver medal at European Championships U20 Division B in Warsaw, 2007. Two years before that Lokhmanchuk won the gold medal with U18 Ukraine at European Championships U18 Division B in Ruzomberok.


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

UNITED KINGDOM

Tigers Hand Chances To Local Talent - by Paul Nilsen

Mersey Tigers have committed to utilising the best of home grown talent ahead during the 2012-13 British Basketball League (BBL) season.

The club has penned deals with a string of young talented players, a move which has delighted new head coach Tony Walsh.

The team we will be putting on the floor will be young and hungry since we want to secure opportunities for the development of mainly locally born players who hail from the north-west explained the play-caller.

Its also important that we continue to strengthen links with Liverpool who currently compete in the English Basketball League Division Four.

But, we will of course be adding to our roster with import and European players in coming days and that will significantly help raise the standard and experience of our team added Walsh.

Tigers have handed contracts to no fewer than eleven British players including three guards in the form of Anthony Woods, a 22 year old shooter who last played out of the European basketball academy in Belgrade, Serbia, teenage playmaker Joshua McGinn (178-G-93) who recently played in Italy at Cestistica-AP having been developed through the Manchester junior programme and 18 year old Jack Hudson who is from Liverpool.

Walsh also has a trio of swingmen to call upon. Mathew Jackson is from Ireland where he played with Belfast Star whilst Kieran Forsythe is a 27 year old who was with Warrington Wolves. Ryan Gallagher (pictured) meanwhile has tasted BBL action previously having been at Tigers nearest rivals Cheshire Jets.

In the forward spots, Manchester born Osemweggie Semi Ebogbe will bring plenty of energy and aggression to the floor having played with Mansfield Giants, Chris Carroll has stepped out with Loughbrough and Sefton while Chris Bigley, David Ulph and Niall Mullan all step up from Division Four where they played with Liverpool.

More signings will be confirmed by Tigers in coming days.


Lugano Tigers keep Nicholas George for 2012/13 - by Eurobasket News

Lugano Tigers announced signing of a 1-year contract extension with Nicholas George (199-F-82, agency: Two Points, college: VCU). It will be their second season together. The British forward arrived to Lugano in March this year. He appeared 14 times in LNA averaging 6.5 points and 2.1 rebounds. George started the season with Italian Ass.Pallacanestro Sant' Antimo. There he had 15 ppg and 4.6 rpg for 9 LegaDue games. They parted ways in January and player moved to Lugano two months later. Lugano Tigers won the LNA title and Cup trophy last season and they hope to repeat in 2012/13. From 2008 to 2011 Nicholas George played for Fastweb Junior Casale Monferrato. Actually he started 2008/09 season with Gravelines and after few months moved to Casale. In the past, George played for Alicante, Imola, Benetton and VCU University.


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

URUGUAY

Standings - LUB LUB Standings  1. Malvin 1-0   2. Montevideo 1-0   3. Aguada 0-0   4. Bigua 0-0   5. Bohemios 0-0   6. Cordon 0-0   7. Defensor 0-0   8. Larre Borges 0-0   9. Olimpia 0-0   10. Sayago 0-0   11. Tabare 0-0   12. Trouville 0-0   13. Un.Atletica 0-0   14. Welcome 0-0   15. Hebraica 0-1   16. Nacional 0-1  Regular Season: Round 1 Sep. 17: Nacional - Montevideo 75-78 Sep. 14: Hebraica - Malvin 74-75 OT Sep. 18: Un.Atletica - Defensor Sep. 18: Sayago - Olimpia

Stats Leaders - LUB PPG RPG APG SPG BPG Points Per Game  Federico HALLER   Montevideo   (198-F-88)   Avg: 25  1. Haller, Montevideo 25.0   2. Pereyra, Monte. 20.0   3. Parodi, Hebraica 20.0   4. Giano, Nacional 20.0   5. Barrera, Hebraica 18.0   6. Ambres, Nacional 17.0   7. Galindo, Malvin 16.0   8. Newsome, Malvin 15.0   9. Martin, Nacional 15.0   10. Fitipaldo, Malvin 13.0  Rebounds Per Game  Hatila PASSOS   Hebraica   (211-C-86)   Avg: 12  1. Passos, Hebraica 12.0   2. Newsome, Malvin 9.0   3. Myles, Malvin 9.0   4. Haller, Montevideo 8.0   5. Ambres, Nacional 8.0   6. Suarez, Nacional 8.0   7. Crosby, Montevideo 7.0   8. Vanderbeken, Hebra. 6.0   9. Baston, Montevideo 6.0   10. Silveira, Montevi. 6.0  Assists Per Game  Gustavo BARRERA   Hebraica   (194-G-85)   Avg: 5  1. Barrera, Hebraica 5.0   2. Vanderbeken, Hebra. 5.0   3. Martinez, Malvin 4.0   4. Fitipaldo, Malvin 4.0   5. Silveira, Montevid. 4.0   6. Baston, Montevideo 3.0   7. Izuibejeres, Hebra. 3.0   8. Myles, Malvin 3.0   9. Chambers, Monte. 3.0   10. Ambres, Nacional 3.0  Steals Per Game  Gustavo BARRERA   Hebraica   (194-G-85)   Avg: 4  1. Barrera, Hebraica 4.0   2. Rivero, Nacional 2.0   3. Giano, Nacional 1.0   4. Osimani, Malvin 1.0   5. Ambres, Nacional 1.0   6. Pierri, Montevideo 1.0   7. Calfani, Malvin 1.0   8. Vanderbeken, Hebra. 1.0   9. Izuibejeres, Hebra. 1.0   10. Aguiar, Hebraica 1.0  Blocks Per Game  Federico HALLER   Montevideo   (198-F-88)   Avg: 2  1. Haller, Montevideo 2.0   2. Newsome, Malvin 1.0   3. Paez, Hebraica 1.0   4. Modernell, Nacional 1.0   5. Crosby, Montevideo 1.0   6. Myles, Malvin 1.0   7. Fitipaldo, Malvin 0.0   8. Bruni, Montevideo 0.0   9. Pierri, Montevideo 0.0   10. Borsellino, Malvin 0.0

Result for the Uruguayan League 1st round - by Hector Lopez

Federico Haller (198-F-88) netted 25 points and Diego Pereyra (184-G-85) added 20 leading Montevideo BBC to defeat Nacional 78-75 for the Uruguayan League 1st round. Also for Montevideo Reggie Chambers (165-G, college: W.Virg.Wesl.) scored 12 points with 3 rebounds and 3 assists and Paul Crosby (203-C, college: Miss.Valley St.) scored 9 points with 7 rebounds and 1 assist. For Nacional Emiliano Giano (180-G-89) scored 20 points with 4 rebounds and 3 assists, Mildon Ambres (198-F/G-84, college: S.Nazarene) netted 17 points with 8 rebounds and 3 assists, and Kevin Martin (208-C-83, college: Florida Gulf Coast) scored 15 points with 4 rebounds and 2 assists.



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

Women News

Standings Adriatic League Standings  1. Athlete Celje 0-0   2. Celik 0-0   3. Hemofarm 0-0   4. Ilrija 0-0   5. Mladi Krajisnik 0-0   6. Novi Zagreb 0-0   7. Partizan 0-0   8. PEAC-PECS 0-0   9. Radivoj Korac 0-0   10. Sloboda 0-0   11. Vojvodina 0-0   12. Vozdovac 0-0

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

ANGOLA

U-18 team summoned for Africa cup - by Eurobasket News

Twelve players of the Angola under 18 national basketball team have been called up to prepare for the forthcoming continental cup.
The competition runs from September 22 to the 29th in Dakar Senegal. The Angolan squad takes off Saturday for Senegal.

Angolas squad
Luyana Filipe, Vitria da Cruz, Helena Viegas, Rosa Gala, Maria Fula, Dalana Kotti, Elsa Doneth, Vnia Vicente, Francisca Mateus, Feliciana Zuluca, Nicoleth Senguele and Snia Cazua.
Courtesy of: StarAfrica


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

BOSNIA

Mladi Krajisnik too strong for Novi Zagreb in preseason game - by Eurobasket News

Mladi Krajisnik - Novi Zagreb 79-57

Mladi Krajisnik and Novi Zagreb met in a friendly game last weekend. The Bosnian squad celebrated 79-57 victory in this meeting. Second quarter was the crucial one. Teams were tied at 17-17 after ten minuets of play, but the home squad exploded after that. They intensified defense and limited Novi Zagreb players to just 10 points in Q2, while they drained impressive 27 at the other side. Visitors were not able to recover for rest of the game and faced with 22-point loss at the end. Milana Zivadinovic (179-G-91) top-scored in victory with 19 points and Jelena Velinovic (193-C-81) added 14. Marina Markovic (181-G/F-91) and Tamara Petkovic (170-G-89) helped the home squad with 10 points each, while Delic netted 9 pts. In defeat, Zrinka Brkljacic (173-G-93) was better than the others with 13 points. Gordana Bedalov (193-C-84, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group, college: FIU) had 10, Inja Butina (170-PG-95) scored 8 and Ivana Blazevic (182-PG-93) stopped to 7 pts.

Mladi Krajisnik: Milana Zivadinovic 19, Jelena Velinovic 14, Marina Markovic 10, Tamara Petkovic 10, Delic 9
Novi Zagreb: Zrinka Brkljacic 13, Gordana Bedalov 10, Inja Butina 8, Ivana Blazevic 7


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

BULGARIA

Priolo signs Dimana Georgieva - by Eurobasket News

Acer ERG Priolo (A1) signed Bulgarian Dimana Georgieva ). Georgieva played last season at Bulgarian Women U18 National Team in Bulgarian league. She missed last season and had one year break from professional basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center


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

CROATIA

Mladi Krajisnik too strong for Novi Zagreb in preseason game - by Eurobasket News

Mladi Krajisnik - Novi Zagreb 79-57

Mladi Krajisnik and Novi Zagreb met in a friendly game last weekend. The Bosnian squad celebrated 79-57 victory in this meeting. Second quarter was the crucial one. Teams were tied at 17-17 after ten minuets of play, but the home squad exploded after that. They intensified defense and limited Novi Zagreb players to just 10 points in Q2, while they drained impressive 27 at the other side. Visitors were not able to recover for rest of the game and faced with 22-point loss at the end. Milana Zivadinovic (179-G-91) top-scored in victory with 19 points and Jelena Velinovic (193-C-81) added 14. Marina Markovic (181-G/F-91) and Tamara Petkovic (170-G-89) helped the home squad with 10 points each, while Delic netted 9 pts. In defeat, Zrinka Brkljacic (173-G-93) was better than the others with 13 points. Gordana Bedalov (193-C-84, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group, college: FIU) had 10, Inja Butina (170-PG-95) scored 8 and Ivana Blazevic (182-PG-93) stopped to 7 pts.

Mladi Krajisnik: Milana Zivadinovic 19, Jelena Velinovic 14, Marina Markovic 10, Tamara Petkovic 10, Delic 9
Novi Zagreb: Zrinka Brkljacic 13, Gordana Bedalov 10, Inja Butina 8, Ivana Blazevic 7


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

CZECH REPUBLIC

Alena Hanusova two months out after surgery - by Eurobasket News

Alena Hanusova (190-C-91) will miss next two months due to knee injury (meniscus). The player already underwent surgery and she started with recovery process. Hanusova is a member of Frisco Sika Brno since 2009. Last season she had 9 ppg and 5.1 rpg in 14 Euroleague games. The center also added 15.6 ppg and 6.4 rpg for 37 appearances in domestic championship. In 2010/11, Hanusova collected 9.2 ppg and 4.1 rpg in ZBL, while her numbers in Euroleague were lower. Before Frisca Sika Brno, Alena Hanusova played for Lokomotiva Karlovy Vary. Hanusova played for the Czech Republic NT at the Olympic Games in London. She was the youngest player of the team. For 5 games Hanusova registered 2.2 ppg and 1.4 rpg.


USK Praha confirm Renata Zrustova - by Eurobasket News

USK Praha confirm Renata Zrustova (177-G-90) for the upcoming season. The team announced Czech Republic Guard in the squad.
In 2007-2008 she started for Basket Slovanka Tabor (ZBL) and in 24 games averaged 3.3ppg, 1.9rpg. In 2008-2009 for BK Tabor (ZBL) averaged 1.7ppg. In 2009-2010 moved to Valosun KP Brno (ZBL) and showed 1.5ppg.
The seasn 2010-2011 she played for Frisco Sika Brno B (1Liga, starting five).
For her Awards/Achievements it is must to mention that she was Czech Rep. U16 National Team member -06. At the European Championships U16 in Kosice (Slovakia) hse won Silver with her team. In 8 games her stats read 5.1ppg, 2.3rpg, 1.1spg, 2FGP: 41.7%, 3FGP: 28.6%, FT: 64.3%. In 2010 she was a member of the Czech Republic U20 National Team.


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

EUROLEAGUE

CSM Targoviste return Florina Diaconu - by Eurobasket News

CSM Targoviste return Florina Diaconu (176-G-82) to the roster. The player went to CS Rapid Bucuresti for preseason but is back to the team.
For many years Florina Diaconu played for Olimpia Bucuresti. In
2006-2007 for Olimpia Bucuresti (D1, starting five) she averaged 6.7ppg, 1.8rpg, 2.5apg, 2.5spg, FGP: 44%, 3FGP: 12.5%, FT: 92.3% in EuroCup. In 2007-2008 she moved to CET Govora (D1, starting five). In 2008-2009 for CS CET Govora (D1, starting five) Florina Diaconu became the top-scorer with 24.3ppg, 5.4rpg, 2.0apg, Steals-1 (3.1spg).
In 2009-2010 she moved to CSS LMK BC Sepsi Sfantu Gheorghe (D1, starting five) and in EuroCup became the third top-scorer 19.0ppg, 4.6rpg, 3.5apg, 2.1spg, FGP: 46.8%, 3PT: 36.2%, FT: 87.1%. In 2010-2011 for CS Rapid Bucuresti (D1, starting five) became the top-scorer of the League with 21.4ppg), 7.2rpg, Assists-5 (3.9apg), Steals-2 (3.5spg), FGP: 42.9%, 3PT: 28.5%, FT: 81.8%.
In 2011-2012 moved to CSM Targoviste (D1, starting five) and after 34 games had 9.2ppg, 4.0rpg, 3.5apg, Steals-2 (3.0spg), FGP: 53.8%, 3PT: 30.1%, FT: 69.8%.


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

EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS

EuroBasket Women Seedings Announced - by Eurobasket News

FIBA Europe has announced the seedings for the EuroBasket Women 2103 draw which will take place in Paris on Friday.

Reigning European champions Russia are the highest-ranked team and in the top group of seeds alongside EuroBasket Women 2011 silver medallists Turkey, bronze medallists France and fourth-placed Czech Republic.

Croatia, who had taken fifth place at EuroBasket Women 2011, are in the second pot of seeds alongside Olympic Games hosts Great Britain and the two teams that finished with the best record in the Qualification Round last July, Italy and the Slovak Republic.

The third and fourth groups of seeds are made up of the remaining eight teams that also earned a ticket to next summer's EuroBasket Women through the Qualification Round, according to their win/loss record and goal average.

The draw will be made at Maison de l' UNESCO in the French capital on Friday afternoon and will be broadcast live on FIBAEurope.com from 4pm.

Rank	Country	Last FIBA Europe Competition	Position	Record	%	Goal Avg.
1	RUSSIA	EuroBasket Women 2011	1
2	TURKEY	EuroBasket Women 2011	2
3	FRANCE	EuroBasket Women 2011	3
4	CZECH REPUBLIC	EuroBasket Women 2011	4
5	CROATIA	EuroBasket Women 2011	5
6	GREAT BRITAIN	EuroBasket Women 2011	Olympics Host
7	ITALY	EuroBasket Women Qualification Round	1	7-1	87.5	1.2387
8	SLOVAK REPUBLIC	EuroBasket Women Qualification Round	2	7-1	87.5	1.2185
9	SWEDEN	EuroBasket Women Qualification Round	3	7-1	87.5	1.1557
10	SERBIA	EuroBasket Women Qualification Round	4	6-2	75	1.3205
11	LITHUANIA	EuroBasket Women Qualification Round	5	6-2	75	1.2317
12	MONTENEGRO	EuroBasket Women Qualification Round	6	6-2	75	1.2241
13	SPAIN	EuroBasket Women Qualification Round	7	6-2	75	1.2043
14	BELARUS	EuroBasket Women Qualification Round	8	6-2	75	1.1609
15	LATVIA	EuroBasket Women Qualification Round	9	5-3	62.5	1.2517
16	UKRAINE	EuroBasket Women Qualification Round	10	5-3	62.5	1.1138

Courtesy of http://www.fibaeurope.com


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

FRANCE

Toulouse and Bourges Basket won the friendlies - by Eurobasket News

Flammes Carolo Basket Ardennes ASPTT lost to Toulouse 44:57. Earlier the team overcame Villeneuve d'Ascq 60:51. Sheana Mosch (177-G/F-81, college: Duke) top-scored for the winners with 14 points and Diop nailed 12. Diawara posted 10, while Amel Bouderra (160-G-89) added 9.
Bourges Basket edged Arras 70:64.
Rivas Ecopolis outscored Basket Landes 74:71. The Spanish team posted the second staright victory over the French side. Anna Cruz (173-PG-86, agency: Josep and Nicolas) top-scored for the winners with 21 points and Onti netted 15. Vega Gimeno (183-F-91, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Robert Morris) netted 12, while Jaklin Zlatanova (190-F-88) added 10. Guzman finished the game with 17 points in the losing effort and Le Gluher followed her with 9. Ayayi, Marion Laborde (178-G/F-86) and Reghaissia posted 8 points each in a loss.


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

GERMANY

Marburg topple Rhein-Main in friendly - by Eurobasket News

Marburg - Rhein-Main Baskets 90:65

DBBL teams are in the final stage of their new season preparations. Marburg and Rhein-Main Baskets played a friendly game. Marburg proved the strength claiming a comfortable win.
Rhein-Main led by a single point midway through the second frame 26:25. But then the Blue Dolphins went on a massive run to take a 44:31 halftime lead. Rhein-Main managed to cut the deficit at 11-point mark in the third term but it was as close as they could get. Marburg quickly boosted the gap and rallied to the victory at the end. Finja Schaake (179-F-92) provided 24 points for Marburg. Martha White (187-C-89, college: NC-Wilmington) added 13 points and 11 rebounds, while Aline Stiller (183-F/C-94) added 9 points for the winners. Tamika Dukes (183-F-86) answered with 18 points for Rhein-Main. Stephanie Wagner (182-F-90) had 12 points in the loss.

Marburg: Finja Schaake 24, Martha White 13+11 boards, Aline Stiller 9
Rhein-Main Baskets: Tamika Dukes 18, Stephanie Wagner 12


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

HUNGARY

Standings - Women A Division Standings  1. Atomeromu 0-0   2. Bacsbasket 0-0   3. BSE-FCSM 0-0   4. Cegledi EKK 0-0   5. DKSK 0-0   6. MBK Eurl.Vasas 0-0   7. PEAC-PECS 0-0   8. PINKK-Pecsi 424 0-0   9. UNI Gyor 0-0   10. UNIQA Eurol. 0-0   11. ZTE NKK 0-0

MBK Euroleasing Vasas Budapest keep Pusztai Sara, Koch Dora and Bajnoczi Viktoria - by Eurobasket News

MBK Euroleasing Vasas Budapest keep Sara Pusztai (170-G-87), Dora Koch (175-G-93) and Viktoria Bajnoczi (182-F-90) for the upcoming season.
MBK Euroleasing Vasas Budapest (A Division) confirmed in their roster 25-year old guard Sara Pusztai. Pusztai played there last season. In 24 A Division games she recorded 4.3ppg, 1.9rpg, 1.4apg and 1.1spg. She also played at BSE-FCSM Budapest that season. The other team Pusztai played that season for was ELTE-BEAC Ujbuda. She played in the final of Hungarian League in 2009.
Dora Koch has played there for the last three seasons. In 23 A Division games she recorded just 0.3ppg last season.She was a member of Hungarian U20 National Team in 2012 and a member of U18 National Team last year. Koch represented Hungary at the European Championships U18 Division B in Miskolc (Hungary) last year. Her stats at that event were 8 games: 4.5ppg, 1.9rpg, 2.0apg.
Viktoria Bajnoczi has played there for the last four seasons. In 24 A Division games she recorded 4.5ppg and 1.0spg last season.
She was a member of Hungarian U20 National Team between 2009 and 2010. Bajnoczi represented Hungary at the European Championships U20 Division B in Kavadarci (FYR Macedonia) two years ago. Her stats at that event were 6 games: 3.7ppg, 3.8rpg.


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

ICELAND

Snaefell with one win and two losses in Denmark - by Eurobasket News

Snafell continued their preparation for the upcoiming season. They travelled to Denmark for a series of test games. Snaefell claimed one win in three games played.
Snaefell opened their series against SISU. The Icelandic team led by three points 39:36 at the interval but allowed SISU to surge ahead in the second half and could not catch up. SISU claimed a 68:64 win at the end. Julie Kongeskov (173-F-83, college: Valdosta St.) scored 12 points, while Kiki Lund added 11 for SISU. Kieraah Marlow (178-F-85) answered with 17 points for Snaefell. Hildur Kjartansdottir (170-G-94) had 13 points in the loss.
Next Snaefell faced Vaerlose. The visitors spurred ahead early in the encounter. They ensured a 36:31 halftime lead. Snaefell this time hang on to the lead and snatched a 78:64 win at the end. Hildur Kjartansdottir delivered 21 points for Snaefell. Kieraah Marlow added 17 points in the win. Alberte Dokkedal (186-F-91) had 11 points for the Danish team.
Snaefell finished their tour against Falcon. Snaefell led by five points at halftime but Falcon turned things around in the second half. The hosts pulled in front and claimed a 73:67 victory at the end. Kieraah Marlow accounted for 17 points, while Hildur Kjartansdottir added 14 points in the loss.


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

ITALY

Priolo signs Dimana Georgieva - by Eurobasket News

Acer ERG Priolo (A1) signed Bulgarian Dimana Georgieva ). Georgieva played last season at Bulgarian Women U18 National Team in Bulgarian league. She missed last season and had one year break from professional basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center


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

KENYA

U-18 basketball ladies brace up for Dakar - by Eurobasket News

Players of the Kenya U-18 national basketball team are in Mombasa where they prepare for the Africa tournament in the category. The competition kicks off September 20 in Dakar, Senegal.
The Kenyan ladies obtained their qualification for the show at the Zone five championships that took place last July in Rwanda. The boys failed to make it as they lost to their Rwandan counterparts. Kenya will play in Dakar alongside the defending champions, Egypt, Senegal who are the host and Angola. Nigeria who had qualified as well is reported to have withdrawn for participating for a reason yet to be known.
Courtesy of: StarAfrica.com


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

NCAA1

Hondarribia-Irun adds Mandisa Stevenson and rookie Lyndsay Harris - by Eurobasket News

Spanish team Hondarribia-Irun announced signing of Mandisa Stevenson (191-C-82, college: Auburn) and Lyndsay Harris (175-G-90, agency: Two Points) for the upcoming season.
Center Mandisa Stevenson won the Swiss league title and Cup with Sdent Helios VS Basket last season. She joined them at the end of March averaging 14 points, 9.9 rebounds, 2.9 steals and 2.3 assists for 9 games. Stevenson started the season with Cadi la Seu. There she had 9.6 ppg and 5.7 rpg for 21 games in LFB. In 2010/11 season the center played for Extrugasa Vilagarcia.
Lyndsay Harris is rookie who graduated few months ago at the University of Arkansas. She had 9.6 ppg and 2.1 rpg for his school in 32 games as a senior. They reached NIT Elite Eight a year ago. In 2009, Harris was named to SEC All-Freshman Team. She spent all four years with Arkansas.


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

PUERTO RICO

Wins for Gigantes and Valencianas on Sunday: - by Luis Modestti

Gigantes de Carolina and Valencianas de Juncos won on Sunday as part of BSNF action.

Gigantes defeated Leonas de Ponce 81-58 led by Kaihla Szunko (187-F-88, college: Cent.Michigan) who scored 20 points and grabbed 15 rebounds. Yesenia Tosado and Cindy Valentin added 15 each.

Carolina has an 8-2 record and Ponce is still winless in eleven tries.

Valencianas de Juncos edged Atleticas de San German 70-66 thanks to a great defensive effort.

Renee Taylor netted 27 points and Esmary Vargas had 16 points with 14 boards for the winners.

The next game is on Tuesday between Aguas Buenas and Morovis.


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

ROMANIA

CSM Targoviste return Florina Diaconu - by Eurobasket News

CSM Targoviste return Florina Diaconu (176-G-82) to the roster. The player went to CS Rapid Bucuresti for preseason but is back to the team.
For many years Florina Diaconu played for Olimpia Bucuresti. In
2006-2007 for Olimpia Bucuresti (D1, starting five) she averaged 6.7ppg, 1.8rpg, 2.5apg, 2.5spg, FGP: 44%, 3FGP: 12.5%, FT: 92.3% in EuroCup. In 2007-2008 she moved to CET Govora (D1, starting five). In 2008-2009 for CS CET Govora (D1, starting five) Florina Diaconu became the top-scorer with 24.3ppg, 5.4rpg, 2.0apg, Steals-1 (3.1spg).
In 2009-2010 she moved to CSS LMK BC Sepsi Sfantu Gheorghe (D1, starting five) and in EuroCup became the third top-scorer 19.0ppg, 4.6rpg, 3.5apg, 2.1spg, FGP: 46.8%, 3PT: 36.2%, FT: 87.1%. In 2010-2011 for CS Rapid Bucuresti (D1, starting five) became the top-scorer of the League with 21.4ppg), 7.2rpg, Assists-5 (3.9apg), Steals-2 (3.5spg), FGP: 42.9%, 3PT: 28.5%, FT: 81.8%.
In 2011-2012 moved to CSM Targoviste (D1, starting five) and after 34 games had 9.2ppg, 4.0rpg, 3.5apg, Steals-2 (3.0spg), FGP: 53.8%, 3PT: 30.1%, FT: 69.8%.


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

SERBIA

Milica Beljanski continue carrier in Romania - by Dragana Vukovic

Milica Beljanski (185-F-83, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) signed one year deal with Romanian team CSM Sportul Studentesc Bucuresti. Last season she started season with Serbain team Spartak Subotica averaging 22.4 points, 6.9 rebounds and 3.3 assists per game. In Januray she moved to Luxemburg to play for Amicale Steinsel where she was averaging 20.0 points, 6.6 rebounds and 4.2 assists. She was Luxemburg Cup winner and she was MVP of Cup. Milica Beljanski was a member of Serbian NT 207 and 2010.


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

SPAIN

Hondarribia-Irun adds Mandisa Stevenson and rookie Lyndsay Harris - by Eurobasket News

Spanish team Hondarribia-Irun announced signing of Mandisa Stevenson (191-C-82, college: Auburn) and Lyndsay Harris (175-G-90, agency: Two Points) for the upcoming season.
Center Mandisa Stevenson won the Swiss league title and Cup with Sdent Helios VS Basket last season. She joined them at the end of March averaging 14 points, 9.9 rebounds, 2.9 steals and 2.3 assists for 9 games. Stevenson started the season with Cadi la Seu. There she had 9.6 ppg and 5.7 rpg for 21 games in LFB. In 2010/11 season the center played for Extrugasa Vilagarcia.
Lyndsay Harris is rookie who graduated few months ago at the University of Arkansas. She had 9.6 ppg and 2.1 rpg for his school in 32 games as a senior. They reached NIT Elite Eight a year ago. In 2009, Harris was named to SEC All-Freshman Team. She spent all four years with Arkansas.


Rivas Ecopolis outscored Basket Landes - by Eurobasket News

Rivas Ecopolis outscored Basket Landes 74:71. The Spanish team posted the second staright victory over the French side. Cruz top-scored for the winners with 21 points and Onti netted 15. Gimeno netted 12, while Zlatanova added 10. Guzman finished the game with 17 points in the losing effort and Le Gluher followed her with 9. Ayayi, Laborde and Reghaissia posted 8 points each in a loss.


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

WNBA

Standings WNBA Standings Eastern  1. Connecticut S. 23-9   2. Indiana F. 20-11   3. Atlanta D. 18-14   4. New York L. 14-18   5. Chicago S. 13-19   6. Washington M. 6-27  Western  1. Minnesota L. 26-5   2. L.Angeles S. 22-11   3. S.Antonio SS 20-12   4. Seattle S. 15-18   5. Tulsa S. 8-23   6. Phoenix M. 7-25  Regular Season: Round 38 Sep. 17: Minnesota L. - Indiana F. 86-79 Sep. 18: S.Antonio SS - New York L. 77-66 Sep. 18: Seattle S. - Chicago S. 75-60 Sep. 18: L.Angeles S. - Phoenix M. 101-76 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.

WNBA champion Lynx take it to the White House - by Eurobasket News

Maya Moore (6'0''-SG-89, college: Connecticut) once "lit up" the president of the United States in a pickup basketball game.

On Tuesday, Moore and her Minnesota Lynx teammates lit up the East Room of the White House with huge smiles as they accepted President Obama's congratulations for winning the WNBA title last season.

"I had the pleasure of playing with Maya and she lit everybody up," Obama joked about Moore, who was visiting the White House for the fourth time after playing on championship teams at the University of Connecticut and the Olympics. "It is not fun when she's raining jumpers on you."

Moore returned the compliment. In an interview, she said the president, a hoops dreamer who plays regularly, "has a really accurate funky little left-handed jumper."

But it was Obama's praise for female athletes that really moved Moore and her teammates. "He appreciates us as role models for his daughters," Moore said.

The president ticked off superlatives for the first major league Minnesota team in 20 years to win a championship.

"There's no question that these are some outstanding basketball players," Obama said. "But they also find the time to raise money for breast cancer research, help local students with their reading. I hear they clean up pretty well for their Cat Walk for a Cure fashion show."

The president recounted how the team had the worst record in the league two years ago and had discovered "the recipe to go from worst to first" by drafting Moore and signing players such as Minnesota native Lindsay Whalen, the team's assist leader; and leading scorer Seimone Augustus.

This season, Obama said, "they've picked up right where they left off. ... I have a feeling that we might end up seeing them back here before too long."

The Lynx, who have already wrapped up home-court advantage for this year's playoffs with the best record in the league, finish the regular season on the road this weekend before returning home to start the playoffs.

Moore said repeating as champions would be hard, "but we want to be back here next year."

Obama, who accepted a Lynx team jersey, heaped special praise on female athletes as a group.

"As the husband of a tall, good-looking woman, and as the father of two tall, fabulous girls, it is just wonderful to have these young ladies as role models," the president said.

"We know all the statistics, but what's also true is that our women athletes just present themselves so well and are such great ambassadors for the game. And as I was pointing out, you don't see them on 'SportsCenter' doing stupid stuff."

Courtesy of www.startribune.com


Pondexter, Ogwumike named Players of the Week - by Eurobasket News

Cappie Pondexter (5'9''-G-83, college: Rutgers) of the New York Liberty and Nnemkadi Ogwumike (6'2''-F-90, college: Stanford) of the Los Angeles Sparks were named the WNBA's Eastern and Western Conference Players of the Week, respectively, for the period ending Sept. 16.

Pondexter earned the honor for the 13th time in her career after averaging 26 points, nine rebounds and 5.5 assists per game for the week. The the former Rutgers guard led the Liberty in scoring and assists in each of the past four games.

Ogwumike collected weekly honors for the second time this season. The rookie forward posted her eighth career double-double with a 30 point, 11 rebound performance in a win against the Chicago Sky. Ogwumike then scored 17 points with eight rebounds and three assists to help the Sparks take down the Connecticut Sun on Sept. 14.

Other players considered for the award were Angel McCoughtry of the Atlanta Dream and Ivory Latta of the Tulsa Shock.

Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com